Happy New Year to all our friends and family ! It is hard to believe we have ended 2015 and looking forward to 2016. I pray your year is blessed beyond measure and make this year count and be about our Father’s business/
Happy And Blessed 2016! "Latest
Radio Release, "A Song and a Prayer" www.chrishayle music.com chrishaylemusic@ gmail.com “
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Life...Lyrically” https://www.facebook.com/chrishaylemusic?fref=ts
Well where do I begin. This is probably the hardest post that I'll ever make but I'm going to start by saying that I have had a wonderful 5 years with my group His Mercies. I have been so blessed to sing with some talented people and to have seen hundreds of lives saved in this ministry and that in itself is is such a blessing . We do have a new project coming out within the next couple of weeks that many of you have pre ordered and we will be getting those in the mail to you just as soon as they arrive. I've made so many friends and I thank God for each and every one of you, how you've blessed, shaped, and molded my life in many ways but we have remained at regional level . I have 2 very talented kids that I sing with who love the lord and whose goal is Fulltime. When I say Fulltime, it's not going all the time like we did but where they are able to do their college online and not have to work Fulltime jobs and travel as well to make ends meet. These kids deserve a Fulltime group that can afford them to do what they love , with the passion for the Lord they have and not have to struggle while doing this . I want them to spread their wings and go for what God has laid before them. With this being said. Im asking any Fulltime professional groups to consider and pray about taking Kayla Stricklin or Rj Henderson on in your ministry. I feel like a mom to these two and have tried to protect them and I think the best thing I can do at this time is not be selfish and be a cheerleader for these kids, so with all of this being said, I am going to take a break from His Mercies for a while and spend some time with my family and embrace whatever God has prepared for me. RJ will be getting in touch with the churches that we have booked in the next year to cancel and we are going out with a bang. Our last concert will be December 31 st with our dearest friends at Ledfords Grove. We love each and every one of you from the bottom of our heart. This has been my baby for the last 5 years and I will cry if you try to talk about this, but I know in my heart it's the best decision. I hope you will be in prayer for Rj, Kayla and myself as we move forward in our paths of life that God has prepared for us. Miitzi Stamey
There is an epidemic of bad sound systems , especially i itself to the person running the sound systems. I will qu day seminar to train ones who run the system or reevalu Give me a call and we will set up a time….I will travel to must have “an ear” to do so… Let me help you...
in churches. Reasons could be many from the system uote rates according to your needs. Whether it is an all uating or installing your system. I am here to help you. you‌ Remember too, the person running your system
Labreeska Hemphill Has Passed Away (UPDATED) By Nelon PR
LaBreeska Hemphill, beloved matriarch of the gospel singing family, The Hemphills, died Wednesday, December 9, 2015, in Nashville, TN at the age of 75. Born in 1940 in Flat Creek, Alabama, a small coal-mining town, to Walter Erskine Rogers and Gussie Mae Goodman Rogers, LaBreeska made her entrance into a world of music singing with her family, the Happy Goodman Family, when at the age of 9, she appeared onstage at the Ryman Auditorium during the monthly “ all-night gospel sings.” Due to her Christian upbringing and personal commitment, faith and values as well as the music of that faith, was a constant in LaBreeska’s life. In 1957, LaBreeska married Joel Hemphill of West Monroe, LA and they became very active in the church Joel’s father pastored. Soon they began to travel and sing when Joel answered the call to ministry, evangelized briefly and settled down to pastor a church in the neighboring town of Bastrop, LA. In 1966, Joel & LaBreeska signed their first recording contract as a duet with Canaan Records, a division of Word Records, the world’s largest music company at that time. Mrs. Hemphill rose to prominence as a member of The Hemphills, ministering across the globe in concerts and revivals, and helped them achieve the status of a legendary Gospel group. A reviewer for the Washington Post attended one of their concerts in the 1970’s at Constitution Hall and wrote, “Mrs. Hemphill has a powerful and convincing voice and The Hemphills do not have one sit-still song in their repertoire.” Garnering eight GMA Dove Awards, The Hemphills dominated the music charts in the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s – fueled by the emotive, strong vocals of LaBreeska Hemphill. For over 20 years, The Hemphills maintained an average number 8 song in Gospel music’s respected chart, earning 6 number one hits with the all-time greatest hit, “He’s Still Working On Me” which remained at No. 1 for eight consecutive months
and was the song of the year for 1981. LaBreeska was perhaps known most, musically, for the hits “I Claim The Blood,” “Grandma’s Rocking Chair,” and “Unfinished Task” – her soul-stirring voice touching the hearts of those listening. In addition to her music, Mrs. Hemphill was an accomplished author of four published inspirational books, which were well received and life changing for many. To know LaBreeska was to experience her bountiful expressions of love and happiness - spreading the joy of Jesus to each person she met. Whether on stage, at church or in the grocery store, LaBreeska would greet you with a smile and a kind, encouraging word. “For 58 years, my bride and companion, stood with me through ups and downs, joy and pain, tears and prayers, and I will miss her greatly,” said husband Joel Hemphill. “Although we have lost her earthly presence, I know I will see her again. I know where she’s headed, and that’s what counts! I love you, sweetheart, see you soon. You’ve finished well.” The legacy of LaBreeska Hemphill will live on through her family – Joel Hemphill, Joel Hemphill Jr. (Joey), Trent Hemphill (Hemphill Brothers Coach Company) and Candy Hemphill Christmas (The Bridge Ministry / Resting Place Church). In addition to her husband Joel, Mrs. Hemphill is survived by sister Jane Burks, brother Buddy Rogers, son Trent Hemphill and wife Bethni Hemphill, grandchildren William Hemphill, Madeleine Hemphill Shore and husband Caleb Shore; son Joel Hemphill Jr. (Joey) and wife Sue Ann Hemphill, grandchildren Taylor Hemphill Locke and husband Daniel Locke and Sarah Hemphill; daughter Candy Christmas and husband Kent Christmas, grandchildren Nicholas Christmas, Jasmine Christmas Brady and husband JonMichael Brady, and Joshua Christmas and wife Carrie Christmas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and a multitude of music fans and friends across the world.
These Apple Pie Muffins are just the thing to serve family and friends for and make a wonderful breakfast on the go. Children and adults love these bec 1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling (I use Duncan Hines Original Country Apple P 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2 eggs 1 cup nut pieces, Optional In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powde eggs. Mix well with a spoon. Spray a 12 cup muffin tin, add about 1/4 cup batte ter. Sprinkle nuts on top. Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven 25 to 30 minute Note: You can make these with about any kind of pie filling. They keep well an “oozing� out of the muffins. You could add raisins along with the nuts and you c
Www.southerngospelmagazine.com
r breakfast with coffee or with milk as a snack anytime. They are delicious cause they taste like apple pie but in a muffin! Pie Filling)
er, and cinnamon. Add the vanilla extract, buttermilk, melted butter and er to each cup. Drop about 1 tablespoon of the apple pie filling into the bates until brown on top. Makes 18 muffins. Enjoy! nd easily reheat in the microwave. I refrigerate any leftover. We love the filling could sprinkle a little brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking.
Karen Peck & New River Garners Fourth Grammy Nomination Karen Peck & New River are honored to be among the nominees of the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. Their 2015 studio project, Pray Now, received a nod in the Best Roots Gospel Album category, presenting the award-winning group with their fourth career Grammy nomination. Pray Now, produced by Wayne Haun, has already enjoyed its share of success since its April 2015 release, having received a GMA Dove Award for Southern Gospel Album of the Year in October. The title track from the album, ‘Pray Now,’ is a collaborative effort from Karen Peck Gooch, Dave Clark & Michael Farren urging listeners to call on God in prayer regardless of circumstances. The timely single powered to the top of the Singing News Radio Chart in October of this year, and has received glowing reviews from fans and critics alike. Karen Peck Gooch shares her excitement, “We are extremely excited and honored to have a Grammy nomination! Everyone worked very hard on this project: it was truly a team effort. Special thanks to our producer, Wayne Haun, as well as Ed Leonard, Dottie Leonard, Scott Godsey and Rick Shelton at Daywind Music and Ed Harper of the Harper Agency. Also, we want to express our gratitude to all of the incredible writers on this album. Pray Now is very dear to us. We had no idea when we recorded the album in January that our world would change within a matter of days when my husband Rickey was diagnosed with cancer. Pray Now helped us through many difficult days. This nomination is an extra special blessing to us. To God be the glory!”
“Karen Peck and New River is the consummate artist,” comments Ed Leonard, President of Daywind Records. “ They continue to make fresh, inspiring music, giving hope to a world in need. We are so proud to have them as part of the Daywind family!” The 58th Annual Grammy Awards will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Monday, February 15, 2016. The live program, which will feature many of the top musical acts in the country, will be broadcast in high-definition and 5.1 surround sound on CBS. Hosts, presenters and performers will be announced at a later date. Pray Now is available at Christian retail stores across the country, online at daywind.com, and digitally at iTunes and other outlets. Bulk purchasing for gift and ministry purposes is available by calling 1.800.635.9581. Daywind Records is home to an award-winning roster of artists, including Legacy Five, Adam Crabb, Browders, Jim Brady Trio, Greater Vision, Joseph Habedank, The Hoppers, Karen Peck & New River, Bowling Family, Tribute, Nelons, Brian Free & Assurance, Blackwood Brothers Quartet and Wilburn & Wilburn. Daywind is distributed to retail through New Day Christian Distributors, Sony RED, and all major digital outlets, including iTunes. For more information, visit www.daywindrecords.com or contact Dani Phillips at publicity@daywind.com.
The following stations are reporting: Southern Gospel Music This Week W.R.H.A. W.D.N.T. W.R.K.Q. W.Q.L.A. Weekly Southern Gospel Music Sunday Mornings 7am
www.rheacountyradio.com
Jeff Davidson Receives Invite By “NBC The Voice To Skip The Lines” And Compete Again Jeff Davidson has received a personal invitation to once again sing in competition for ‘NBC The Voice” He was invited to come to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 20-21, 2016 to the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
Offer
NBC Producers are looking for up to five (5) solo Artists or duos that perform in any genre to tell your story and demonstrate that you are “The Voice.” Selected performers will receive an exclusive pass that gets you to the front of the audition line.
About The Opportunity The Voice is the Emmy Award-winning, number one series on NBC, featuring the country’s best unknown Artists and some of the biggest names in music, which have included: Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, Pharrell Williams, Usher, Shakira, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green.
We are looking for solo artists and duos that perform all types of music: pop, rock, R&B, hip-hop, alternative, latin, country, blues, indie. We want to know your story and
why you are The Voice.
The Rob Mills Family who was the August cover and feature artists in Southern
Gospel Magazine has done it again! Their video on facebook is going viral. On their on YouTube they have garnered 1,692,128 views for their video “Through The Ages�
https://youtu.be/0jwkpd2nAto http://issuu.com/southerngospelmagazine/docs/ sgm_august_2015 Rob recently learned that the First Baptist Church of Bracketsville, Texas posted their video on their facebook timeline on November 18,2015 and it has now reached over 1 million views in less than 30 days...again it is going viral with over 38,000 shares at the time of this writing.
Southern Gospel Magazine congratulates the Rob Mills Family..
Over the next few pages, I have asked artists and friends to share a moment, a memory that is very special to them in the year 2015
LaVerne Herring Sanders http://www.mercyrain.com My most memorable time was when God reached down and answered an earnest prayer when my husband had been diagnosed with kidney cancer! I know that doesn't sound like a favorite memorable time, but it was to me! My husband is never sick. so when he went in for a cat scan just to check the area before a small hernia repair, they found a very large mass that was cancer! They did a kidney removal, and he came out cancer free with no chemo, radiation, etc!! He is still cancer free! The moment the Dr said we got it all and he is cancer free, I cried and danced a jig!! My God is able to do all things!!
James Moore I guess the most memorable time I can think of was probabaly at Thanksgiving time when we went to my sisters and many relatives were there in Commerce,Ok. and we had relatives visit from Princeton,Ill.
Greg Hager http://www.greghager.com
2015 was year of opportunity and blessings. Within a few short weeks of each other, I received notice that my newest album had been selected as the Western/Country Album of the year with the Rural Roots Music Commission. Then I received notice that I was nominated in three categories with the Academy of Western Artists for 2015 – Artist of the year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year. God is good. He has blessed with opportunities to share His Gospel in song, and to entertain in a positive way. Thank you, Greg Hager – www.greghager.com
RUSS ADAIR
http://russadairsings.com/html/ about_russ.html My most memorable moment in 2015 was the celebration of my father, Ben Adair, on his 90th birthday--what a man! Dad served in the Marine Corp and worked with the Gov't most all of of his career. He was honored by a US Senator for his service by providing Dad with the US Flag, which actually flew over the Capitol Building on his 90th birthday. Dad's home home church Pastor, Richard Williford, presented the Flag to him during a Veterans Honoring Service. So thankful for all my family and and Dad who has been a real mentor to us all.
KELLY COBERLY
As if appearing at the Christian Country Expo wasnt a big enough blessing in itself, the Wednesday evening concert turned out to be an even bigger blessing than I had imagined. As I was headed backstage to get my music queued up for my performance, I was stopped by one of the other artists. She said “Kelly, we were just talking about you.” She then introduced me to Chuck Day, who wrote “Midnight Cry.” She said she had been telling Chuck about how I sang “Midnight Cry” at Tuesday’s showcase. I had never met him before, and I didn’t realize that he was there, so when she introduced us, I was a little shocked and speechless. That evening, I had the honor of singing “MidnightCry” at the concert, with Chuck Day present in the audience. I have to admit, I was a little nervous and my voice was pretty shaky, but I was so honored to have such a wonderful opportunity. “Midnight Cry” is such a great song, and to be able to sing it for the writer himself was a moment I will never forget. Soon after, Chuck took the stage to perform, and was presented with the 2015 Christian Country Living Legend Diamond Award. Chuck stopped by my booth later and told me “Good job!” The entire week was a blessing, and I am honored to have been a part of the event, but Wednesday night was so surreal for me, and a huge blessing and honor. — Kelly Coberly
ELIZABETH LOFLIN
The most memorable time in 2015 for me was losing my sweet aunt Trula Burgess. All of my life if I ever had a problem I knew that one phone call and hearing those sweet words ``well hey suge'' always warmed my heart and made the problem just disappear. As far back as I could (almost) remember she and her family traveled and sang in the group the Melody Makers. Her voice would flow over you with the power of God that made shivers down your spine and you just knew that that sweet, gentle woman truly knew this "God" that she sang about. The morning that I got the call I knew such gut wrenching sadness and grief but it was immediately replaced with the thought that now she is sitting at the foot of our Father! She could see His face and touch the hem of His robe and her healing was complete! I don't know if I can ever quit longing to hear her voice calling me "beautiful" as she always did but I know that I am forever changed. She honestly loved and saw value in everyone. Her singing touched the souls of thousands possibly millions over the 30/40 year timespan that she sang her last years were spent battling Pulmonary Fibrosis and the horrible way that it wrecked havoc in her body but she never lost her smile. Her husband and children have a daunting task of going forward without her. I will forever remember October 23, 2015 as the day that the light was dimmed forever.
After listening so Southern Gospel music all of my life, I have certain groups that have influenced the style I like, and I have some heroes from those groups who have influenced the way I sing. Then there are those artists who seemed to set the bar so high with their accomplishments that it would be impossible to attain their same success. One such talent is none other than, Ben Speer. Having grown up the youngest of the famous Speer Family, Ben seemed to go further with his Godgiven talent than the other members of the family. Ben has been a successful song-writer, singer, piano player, and producer, owner of the famous Stamps-Baxter School of Music, publisher, and music director for the well-known Gaither Homecoming series. It was my privilege to present Ben with the Gospel Legends Lifetime Tribute Award at the 2015 Gospel Legends Reunion, a show that I produce each year featuring some of the greatest gospel artists of our time. This year helping with the presentation was the talented and famous Larry Strickland, along with State Senator Mae Beavers of Tennessee who presented Ben with a proclamation from the Governor’s office, signed by Attorney Governor, Ron Ramsey. A Tennessee flag was also presented to Ben by Senator Beavers that had flown over the State House for a day in Dr. Ben Speer’s honor. What a humbling experience to honor such a great man as Ben Speer who has made innumerable contributions to the gospel music industry. Ben made the announcement in May 2015 that he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and at the time of the presentation ceremony it was already apparent that the disease was taking a toll on his once great mind. That night on the stage with around fifty gospel legends joining him, he was able to sing several of his greatest hits without a hitch. Now you know why it was my most memorable moment! – Tim
The Living Legends Concerts
Stutler Founder of
Domestic Violence and a New Year Resolutions Once again the old year has ended and a new one has begun. New Year resolutions have been made. It's time when we vow to make changes in our lives. I want to talk to one particular group of people about making changes in you life. A change that could save your life. You see I made that change in 1984 when I decided it was time for me to no longer be a victim to domestic violence. I decided it was time to become a survivor. Over 12 million people in the United States become victims of domestic violence. We use the term survivor for those of us who made it through that time in our life. However it is estimated that over 1,300 people will lose their life each year to domestic violence. Domestic violence is something we as a society tend to still look at with closed eyes and hearts. How many times have I heard “ It's none of my business.� Well my friend it is your business. Sometimes the only way out a person has is for someone to intervene. We need more people to speak out within the community about this issue. We need people with real power to enact laws and to implement those laws. It's time we all get behind this cause. Sadly domestic violence isn't going away, but we can make a change. If you are a victim of domestic violence or you know someone who is a victim there are somethings you need to remember. First you are not alone. There are thousands of other women who are going through the same thing every second, every minute and every hour of every day. You don't have to go through this alone. There are those who will be with you each step of the way. Second you are not to blame. Regardless of what you are being told are you have been told you did nothing to cause your spouse or partner to act the way they do. Third you do not deserve to be treated this way. No person has the right to put their hands on you to hurt you in any way. You should never be physically, mentally, sexually or verbally abused. You deserved to be treated with respect. Fourth, you have rights. You have the right to be treated with dignity and not to be victimized again. You also have the right to request a protection order from a court that can protect the victim from the person committing domestic violence. If you or a member of your family are victim's of domestic violence, you have the right to call the police. You have the right to sign a complaint against the person who hurt you and/or your child(ren). In some states the complaint will allow the officer to make an arrest even though the officer did not see the assault take place. Most abusers will take away as many of your rights as possible through fear, intimidation, and/or abuse. Your abuser's actions do not change the fact that legally you have rights. Always remember you have the right to live your life free from fear and domestic violence. You have the right NOT TO BE ABUSED! Now let's take a moment and talk about the myths of domestic violence. These tend to be some of the things we hear people say. Sadly some of our own judges and law mak-
ers even think these myths are true. How many times did I hear judges and lawyers say “ It's not as bad as we make it out to be.” It's that mentality along with the myths of domestic violence that people don't get involved. Myth: Domestic violence doesn’t affect many people. Fact: A woman is beaten every 9 seconds. Domestic Violence is the single greatest cause of injury to women Myth: Battered women are exaggerating; it’s not that serious. Fact: Reports shows that every five years as many women are killed by their intimate partners. Myth: If a battered woman wanted to leave, she could. Fact: Many women do leave abusive partners, more than 50%. Leaving a battering partner may be the most dangerous time in that relationship. Women are 70 times more likely to be killed in the two weeks after leaving than at any other time during the relationship. Social, economic, cultural, religious, or legal issues often keep battered women in an abusive relationship. Now that you know the difference between the myths and the facts I hope you start to look differently at that women you know is being abused in any way. I hope that you will start to look at how you can make a difference in how society feels about domestic violence. Millions of women each year are victims of domestic and sexual violence. Violence against women affects everyone- the victims are our sisters, mothers, partners, friends, clients and co-workers. Most people know someone who is or has been a victim of violence, even though the victim may not have disclosed the violence. Isn't it time you stopped and looked around at your family and friends. Remember that women who smiles and laughs with you in public may be the one women who goes home and walks in the door to an abusive spouse or partner. in public may be the one women who goes home and walks in the door to an abusive spouse or partner. Sadly domestic violence is still a silent epidemic. Let's make 2016 the year we Stand Up, Step Up and Speak up about domestic violence. This year when you make your New Year's Resolutions, think of ways you can make an impact on the issue of domestic violence. Regardless if you're a survivor, a friend or family member of a survivor, or you've never personally been affected by violence at all you can make a difference. What will you're New Year's Resolution be. Will one of the changes you make next year be a way out of a violent relationship? Will you be the person who looks seeks to help those you know who are in a violent relationship find a safe way out. Remember the decision you make could be a decision between life and death. Don't be a statistic, just another number for victims. I was tired of being in that statistic of victims. I made that New Year's Resolution to become a number among the survivors. One thing you must always remember that when I say you are never alone that there is one person who is with you always. That person is God. All you have to do is look to him for strength. I hope that each of you who read our articles have accepted God as you personal Savior. If not it's simple. All you have to do is ask Him for forgiveness of your sins. The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23 “That we have all sinned and come short of the Glory of God but 1 John 1:9 tell us “ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. I hope that the new year brings you joy and peace. May God bless you in this new year Debbie
Dollywood Named One Of TripAdvisor's Top Theme Parks In The World The popular travel review site TripAdvisor recently named Dollywood as one of the best theme parks in the world, continuing the Pigeon Forge park’s string of impressive accolades and awards. Based on reviews and ratings for all theme parks worldwide, TripAdvisor compiled the list of the Top 25 theme parks around the globe. Dollywood placed 19th on the list, which included parks like Universal’s Islands of Adventure (#1), Magic Kingdom (#3), Universal Studios Florida (#6), Germany’s Europa-Park (#7), Disneyland (#8), Denmark’s Tivoli Gardens (#12), Epcot (#16), Six Flags Magic Mountain (#22), Silver Dollar City (#24) and Walt Disney Studios Park in France (#25). One recent review on TripAdvisor, titled “One of the Best in the World,” noted, “This world-class attraction gets better every year…Great rides including seven roller coasters and some of the best shows and food in any park in the world can be found among the arsenal of activities.” Another review, titled “Best Amusement Park In America!,” read, “Dollywood is one of the best theme park experiences in America!...The staff is so friendly and will go out of their way to do anything for you! The shows are just as good as a Broadway
production. They have some world-class roller coasters and other rides that you just want to ride over and over again!” The award-winning park certainly has endeared itself to its many guests, having recently been named #3 Best Theme Park in the country and #6 Best Musical Attraction by USA Today’s 10Best. In 2015, the park also earned Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards for Best Christmas Event, Best Shows and Friendliest Park. Dollywood earned the 2010 Applause Award, the theme park industry’s highest honor. Additional Commentary From Singing News ... Dollywood is also home to the Southern Gospel Music Association's (SGMA) Hall of Fame, which is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Southern Gospel music for generations to come. During October, Dollywood hosts the "National Southern Gospel & Harvest Celebration." More than 300 Southern Gospel concerts take place in the park's various performance venues during the month ... that's right, a month. Each day Dollywood is open during October, Southern Gospel music abounds at every turn; and the incredible fall colors of the Smoky Mountains provide the perfect backdrop. By Dolklywood
God Uses the Reluctant I love the story of Gideon. It amazes me that God was so patient with him. Like Moses he argued with God about his calling. Like Moses he saw only his limitations, but God proclaimed who he would be. We see things according to human limitations, God sees the limitless possibilities when we put our trust in him and walk in his Spirit. Gideon would question and test God numerous times before he became willing to step into the spiritual realities God pronounced over him. I love the following account in Judges 6. Gideon was sure the Lord had abandoned his people, but God… And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor. “ And Gideon said to him “Please sir if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our fathers recounted to us, saying, ’Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has forsaken us and given us into the hand of Midian.” And the Lord turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours and save Israel from the hand of Midian; do not I send you? And he said to him, “Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Behold my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.” And the Lord said to him, “But I will be with you and you shall strike the Midianites as one man” (Ju. 6:12-16). The Israelites were being oppressed by Midian because of their sin. The Midianites swarmed in against them and stripped the land like locusts every harvest season. Everything the children of Israel had worked for was stolen when they came. After seven years in this pattern scripture says that “Israel was brought very low… and the people of Israel cried out for help to the Lord.” It was basically the Lord’s compassion that answered, because nothing here says the people repented. They were just brought very low, and God had mercy. When he answers prayers it is rarely because of our worthiness. It’s more about him than us. When he answers, he comes in and empowers weak and reluctant people. Gideon remained reluctant until God showed up and proved himself to him. God did not say, “Go read the scripture, examine your sin, find my promises, and walk in obedience.” Instead, he answered every one of Gideon’s fear-based prayers, and he proclaimed something over Gideon that seemed completely removed from reality. Reality was harsh. The enemy was devouring God’s people. The Israelites were hiding out in caves to escape with their lives. They were basically working for nothing, be-
cause everything they produced was stolen. The enemy was stronger that they were, yet God would not let them remain in defeat. When they cried out for help, he was faithful to answer, and to find a reluctant hero to lead the charge against the enemy. First he had to convince Gideon to take on the job, and of course that required answering his doubts and fears. Even after God answered, Gideon obeyed by tearing down the altar of Baal, but he was so afraid of his own family he did it at night. As God continued to prove himself to Gideon he soon began to live up to the angel’s description “mighty man of valor.” Before it was all over, God tested Gideon by reducing his troop size from 32,000 to 300. By this point, God had proven himself to Gideon, and he obeyed in spite of circumstances. It made no sense for a band of 300 to rise up against a huge army, but Gideon did it, because he had learned God was faithful. This account is beautiful, because it shows me that God uses reluctant, weak people. It shows me that there are no limits with God—all things are possible. It shows me that as long as I am walking with him and willing, he will empower me in his strength. I can express my doubts and fears as long as I don’t run away. I need to wait and watch for his answer. God comes to the aid of the weak. He answers prayer, and he gives his power to the powerless. His reality seems far removed from circumstances and human logic, but nothing is more real! The One who created the universe can certainly turn a reluctant weakling into a mighty man of valor, as long as the man is willing. Father, we face many impossible looking circumstances right now. We ask you to show yourself to us, and answer our doubts even as you did for Gideon, because Lord you have great compassion on your children who are being downtrodden by the enemy. This is not about us, but about you, and we are willing to go and do whatever you call us to do. Regardless of our doubts, we will not run away in fear. Instead, we will be your mighty men and women of valor in spite of ourselves, because you will be with us. We will look to you rather than circumstances. We love and trust you. Amen
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3 Elements You Must Have to Get Healthy Wellness, Medicine, and Prayer If you want to truly get healthy, have great energy, and feel fully alive in every way, there are three elements that you absolutely must have. Skimp on any one of them, and you have seriously shortchanged yourself. Make use of all three, and you will be surprised at the results. Those three necessary elements are Wellness, Medicine, and Prayer. Wellness – all you can do on your own, such as following a healthy lifestyle, and using supplements if necessary. Medicine – the professionals that help you with your health, and medical treatments they recommend. Prayer – connecting with Great Physician regularly. Sadly, I’ve seen people who rely primarily on only one, or even two, of these elements. And I’ve seen how doing so can drastically limit their long-term health. You don’t want to be one of those so limited. Some who are missing out include: The thirty-something young woman, 200 pounds overweight, who needs an emergency C-section at 26 weeks of pregnancy to save her life and the life of her baby, and is surprised and frustrated when medical care can’t prevent all the associated complications. The “wellness doctor” who disparages the chemotherapy recommended for his mother when she gets breast cancer, and refuses to acknowledge when her cancer quickly returns and spreads. The people standing in a prayer line for healing who don’t follow medical recommendations for treatment of their condition or change their unhealthy lifestyle practices. Those who would like to blame God for their illness and lack of healing when their disease is clearly the result of their own behaviors. Let me be clear. These things are true: God wants you well! He is the Healer, the Great Physician. He’s sad when you hurt or are ill. Your wellness glorifies Him, and benefits His kingdom. Your lifestyle makes a difference. Your healthy diet, supplements when necessary, staying away from toxins, and good physical exercise will definitely make you healthier. Medical care is not a cure-all. Treatments frequently have side effects. Science does not have all the
answers. Doctors are human, and at times make mistakes. Not all illness is your fault. And not all illness can be prevented. Some of what happens to us is simply a result of living in our broken world. But those truths do not lessen the need for you to maximize use of all three of these elements in order to get healthy. Wellness, medicine, and prayer are three legs of a stool. Lose any one of the three, and you’ll fall over. Tweet that. Refuse to live the healthiest lifestyle you can, and you will almost certainly suffer from one or more chronic illnesses. Refuse thoughtfully chosen and scientifically-based medical care, and you are limiting the avenues through which you may experience healing. Refuse to earnestly, persistently seek God in prayer, and you’re missing out on the only real Source of healing – the Great Physician. I’m passionate about this because I see people suffer needlessly. They experience illness as a result of a poor lifestyle that may be difficult to change, but not impossible. Or they give their personal power over to a doctor who may be good, but can never be all-knowing. Or they refuse treatment that might truly help or even cure their illness. Or they blame God for causing or refusing to heal an illness they had a large part in causing. Or they miss out on the comfort, courage, strength, and healing that God can provide regardless of whether or not they had a factor in causing their own illness. You don’t have to suffer in those ways. What You Can Do So how can you make full use of this three-legged stool necessary for good health? These things are important: Choose to take charge of your health. No human being or organization can or will care more about your health than you do. Make the decision to own responsibility for your health. Realize you don’t know it all. Make full use of the professionals available to you. Read books, newsletters, and reputable online sources related to health. Ask questions! Be willing to make changes, even tough changes. Eating healthier food, moving more physically, learning to maintain a healthy attitude, getting rid of addictions – all that will make a difference. Remember to pray. Pray for your own health. Pray for the wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do your part. Pray for God’s direct intervention in your health. Ask others to pray for you. If you want to get healthy, you can’t focus on only one area of your life. You need to see yourself as in charge, and also be willing to make full use of all the resources available. Take responsibility, but don’t do it alone.
Does ProdiGal Son ever sleep? Prodigal Son is taking full advantage of his 2nd chance within the Gospel Rap Music Industry. Spring 2014 Prodigal Son released and distributed his comeback cd entitled HomeComing (Limited Edition) which has sold over 5,000 copies to date through digital sales #Singles #Full albums and hard copy live venue sales, through his self funded HomeComing Tour. Prodigal Son is now gearing up for a new release and high energy Tour entitled WAY UP (E.P.) Which is slated for the Midwest leg of the USA... The lead single #Alive featuring BJ Williams has been accepted on several National Syndicated radio shows and he's released a LIVE VIDEO of the song via youtube. (You can view the video on www.holywoodrecords.com) In the meantime head over to #Amazon and PRE-ORDER his new E.P. For only $3.96 for a limited time. It includes the hit songs #WayUp #Anybody #Alive #TripleBeamz You'll be glad you did.. Click Here to Pre-Order Way Up E.P. http://www.amazon.com/Way-Up-E-P-Prodigal-Son/dp/B0188VPMFA/ref=sr_1_1? ie=UTF8&qid=1448680991&sr=8-1&keywords=prodigal+son+way+up+e.p To Book Prodigal Son please call 829 Management (954) 678-8498
Welcome to the Porch, Grab a nice cold glass of sweet tea or a nice warm cup of coffee and let’s chat. First, let’s say a short prayer asking God to open our ears and our hearts. Father, we come to you now asking that you will use these words in such a way that hearts will be blessed and open to you. Father, all we do we do for you. Each of us humbled, by your love and mercies every day. Amen As we go into a New Year many of us make New Year’s resolutions. Things like, lose weight, eat healthier, exercise more, quit smoking, stop drinking, learn something new, spend less and save more, do more charity work, go on that dream vacation, make more time for family or just simply try to relax more. This is a good list but there is something major missing….JESUS!! Our first resolution, most important resolution should be to draw closer to Him. So this month I want to talk about, Five Ways to draw closer to Jesus. Let’s look in the book of Ruth, chapter 3: 1-2 We should all pray something like this. Lord, I want to see you more clearly; I want to follow you more nearly, I want to love you more dearly. This is the prayer of most of our hearts. We may not put in those exact words but our goal really is (should be) to have a more intimate relationship with Him. Discipleship is not a code, cause, creed, conduct or even church IT IS CHRIST and the mark of a disciple is the love for Jesus. The true desire of a disciple is to know Jesus, intimately. We should seek the giver of the gifts, not the gifts. Seek to know about Him. We will use the book of Ruth chapter 3: 3-5 to find 5 ways to draw close to Jesus. This is the advice of Naomi to Ruth as she prepares to meet her husband. But it is also the way we should prepare to meet Jesus. BE FRESHLY CLEANSED: it says to wash yourself. You are going to meet HIM. James tells us to cleanse our hands and clear our mind. To draw neigh to God you must be clean. How do we become clean? 1-By the word of God, Ephesian 5:25-26, the word of God is to our spirit what water
is to our body. It washes away the dirt and grime. 2- By the blood of Jesus. He died to save us and cleanse us for all sin. PUT ON PERFUME: be anointed, be sweet, smell good and be nice to be near. Our fragrance should speak of love and intimacy. What gives us a sweet smelling fragrance? How am I anointed? The answer to both is the Holy Spirit, 1 John 2:27. The anointing that you have received abideth in you. The anointing we have is the Spirit of God. Our lives should be as sweet smelling incense to him. PUT ON YOUR BEST: your “Sunday go to meetin” clothes. Ruth is a perspective bride. Ruth was a widow and she wore her mourning clothes. But now she must dress up. Her life is changing. How do we dress up to meet Jesus? We put on; joy of our salvation, beauty and praise. This is how you dress up for Jesus. Now how do we get these things? Look at Isaiah 61:10 “For He has clothed me with the garment of salvation, covered mewith the robe of righteousness “As disciples we put on our garments of praise and come before Him with a thankful heart. Just as a bride comes unto her new husband. BE FULLY COMITTED: Ruth was told to mark Boaz’s spot in the bed and uncover his feet and place herself at his feet. This was her saying; I am willing to take you as my husband. We as disciples should do the same and place ourselves at the feet of you Jesus. When we do this as disciples of Jesus we are saying that I put myself under you protection and I am totally committed to you. BE COMPLIANT: Don’t just be faithfully committed but compliant. Be not just a hearer but a doer of all that the word tells us to do. Be faithful, ready to obey. This is the final step in our fellowship with Jesus. Jesus will tell us what to do and we as His disciple will say YES, LORD, YES. To your will and your way. In our relationship with Jesus it is not; Lord, you tell me what you want I then I will let you know if I can work it out. No, Jesus tells us and we say Lord, I will do it. John 14:21 tells us this, he that has my commandments and keepth them, he it is he that loveth me. There are those who fulfill these 5 steps and walk so close with God that when they enter a room you can smell the fragrance of God on them. One that comes first to my mind is my brother, Wilson. He beams of Jesus, no matter his situation; the Spirit in him brings sweetness to a room and the word of God flows from him like a rushing river. He brings his “A” game to the feet of Jesus every time. In doing these thing what will Jesus give in return. He will receive us, He will reassure us and He speaks peace to our hearts. So, I give you these thoughts as we start the New Year, Will you make hollow resolutions of the world or will you make resolutions that will really change your life, one that matters? I know that my goal is to draw closer to Jesus. I want to have a personal intimate relationship with Him, Don’t you? Happy New Year and till next time Thanks for joining me on the porch Brian