Wisdom From Mothers to Daughters A Panel Discussion facilitated by Prophetess Michelle Guess
This quarter Voice of Manifestation Worldwide Magazine‟s Live Panel discussion focused on Wisdom from Mothers to Daughters. Mothers of Manifestation (M.O.M.) were very vulnerable with their testimony during the times when they were not reflecting the Nature of God. Each one shared why it is a choice to respond with God‟s Nature regardless to what happens in your life. We as women may have faced a lot of pain, hurt, disappointment and rejection, etc. but these are life lessons that we need to teach to our young ladies in the body of Christ. They are truly the apple of God‟s eye.
MOTHERING VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY
Young Ladies: “You don‟t need to be „whipped‟ to be made.‟ and young men if you want a wife, find a woman that wants to be a woman of God!” ~ Mother Mattie Mae Ervin
“ I listened to my Mother‟s words because I know that her age has bought that wisdom and what I pass on to my daughters is the Word of God, and God‟s word...IS the best!” ~ Mrs. Charlene Brown
To the Single Mothers: The term “Single Mother” has become very common place in our society today. But please concentrate on the operative word “Mother” and not so much the word „single.‟ You and your children 2 will reap the benefits and our society will be better in every way. ~ Mrs. Esther Ervin
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On the cover…. “In spite of my painful past, God has given me a strong desire to reach out to others who are struggling from the trauma of sexual abuse.”
Founder N.O.S.I.S
Columns:
Inspiration Relationships Health Testimony Being about the BUSINESS
“….Butterfly in the Sky” There are no better words to describe Lady Lisa Jones as she begins to S.O.A.R. to new dimensions in this season of her life.
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FROM THE EDITOR What Makes a Woman? If you have ever struggled with your identity...
Leola Tillman Chief Editor - Publishing Coordinator ltillman@centerformanifestation.com
Michelle Guess Live Panel Coordinator cfmempoweredengagements@gmail.com
Felton Sanderson Photo Journalist
I have to share this quote from my dear Sister in Christ– Jennifer Cole, who penned this truth... “A wound is an event, but healing is a process. Don‟t evade the process, for in it is your restoration.” It makes no difference what you have gone through, or what you still may be going through today, God knew you before He formed you in your mother’s womb! It takes a woman that has strength of character to be able to bare her personal pains, emerge from those pains victoriously, and then position her self yet again in order to share the purpose of her pain with others. This is necessary so that others may be empowered to walk in victory and soar to new heights. For all the hurt, disappointment, misuse, abuse, rejection, etc...God had a strategic plan and His intention was to bring you to restoration. As you traveled down those lonely roads, the hard places in your life, you were never alone, God was there with you imparting Himself into you even as you were going through the pain. The Voice of Manifestation Worldwide Magazine wishes to recognize every woman that lives to see the manifestation of many women of God come forth victoriously as a result of their testimony. You were ‘born to soar’ so much higher than any of your circumstances, so get ready to spread your wings and discover who you truly are and the purpose of God that is destined to make your life GLORIOUS!. Don’t mind the ‘messy middle’...you must go through it to get to the open air that awaits you.
VMWMagazine© is published quarterly. It is distributed electronically via the web @ www.issuu.com, one of the biggest electronic publishing services in the world! No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. For information on where you can find VMWM or to become a distributer call (813) 690-8346 or email: ltillman@centerformanifestation.com
This is a revolution! It’s not just church as usual“This is the season for the manifestation of the sons of God!”
Find us on Facebook! 4
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Featured Contributing Writers:
Lisa Winchell M.A. In His Image Counseling & Training
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Faith Felder M.D. Tampa Heights Medical Center
Dr. Bridget Fizer Master Life Strategist Kairos Institute of Personal Discovery
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VMWMagazine was birthed in May of 2009. It‟s mission is to cast a vision of kingdom life; setting the standard for how apostolic life should be lived. Demonstrating a lifestyle and what it truly means to “be” the manifest sons of God in the earth, VMWMagazine will house many testimonies, periodicals, teachings, advertisements, and highlights from recent quarterly panel discussions. The magazine's target audience is primarily... but not limited to, the body of Christ. For the whole creation groaneth for the manifestation of the sons of God! Romans 8:19 One of the primary focuses of this magazine is to highlight "kingdom-minded" individuals, professionals & ministries who understand and therefore have embraced their life assignment and are boldly declaring, espousing and installing God‟s patterns and principles into the lives of others according to the Apostolic Mandate!
Lisa Winchell, M.A. NCCA Licensed Clinical Christian Counselor Masters in Clinical Christian Counseling NBCCT Board Certified Supervisor
Houston Offices: 832-229-5392
or
713-481-5365 5
rocksoulonline.com Last quarter, the Voice of Manifestation Worldwide Magazine’s Editor in chief and Director of Communications conducted an outstanding telephone interview with contemporary Gospel Artist Michelle Bonilla. Here are highlights from the interview: Michelle Bonilla, Brooklyn, NY native centers her ministry around the Gospel and its ability to relate to people in all walks of life. Stylistically, her music is urban, latin, pop, contemporary. Her heart yearns to encourage people to maximize their potential through a one-on-one relationship with Christ. Michelle Bonilla is 28 years old, I think its significant that she is married to the manager/producer/label owner and the dynamics of that relationship and how they keep a balance to maintain a Godly marriage.. VMWM: When you hear the term “apostolic” what comes to mind? M.B. “Apostle in the Bible, those who walked with Jesus. I am also aware that there are denominations that go by the title- but have researched the term to mean sharing the message of Christ and the idea that the apostles are to promote the word of God and correct error. They are also to perfect the body of Christ for the work of ministry (my addition in italics). I also see them as a role to be accountable for the people that they lead (Luke 12:48 to whom much is given, much is required) Simple truth can pierce the heart so deeply. VMWM: What is the core expression, that you recognize, which brings a desired response from your listening audience/ generation? M.B. I pray that our generation will be awakened! Somebody has to “go” and tell our youth. At age 16 I was challenged with a father that was battling alcoholism and his own personal belief in God. Mind you this is the same man that led me to Christ, and kept me in church. Seeing him struggle as he did put me in the throes of anorexia and a mentality that said that I was nothing unless I looked like this world. I struggled with my identity during this time in my life. All the while I was going to church, singing on the praise team etc. yet I had no personal relationship with God. VMWM: How do you explain the difference between going to church as you were doing at age 16 and having a real tangible relationship with God as their Father to our youth? M.B. Instruct the child in the way that he should go and they will not depart. I will say that our youth groups and youth pastors along with youth ministries need to be solid. At age 16, that time in my life, I was connected to a youth ministry that was very instrumental and made a difference in my life. It is here that many can find the voice of reason. Force them to take a look at their own
lives. Ask them, “Have you ever sinned before?”If they tell a lie, show them from God‟s perspective what a lie is, show them what sin looks like as you show them Christ- show them what God says about sin. VMWM: Husband, love & marriage- the pressures of dating….let‟s talk about your approach to these when you are ministering to the youth. M.B. I remember all the feelings of those times, so I am not so down hard on the young people that are now experiencing these times, it is a natural thing for them to go through, I can‟t forget what it‟s like to be in those shoes. Society is way over-sexed, so pervasive in our culture to have a person to call a soulmate. The best relationships start with friendship. Lee Jerkins is the producer of Crossover Movement and the husband of Michelle Bonilla of 4 1/2 years. Michelle shared with Voice of Manifestation Worldwide how they first shared a relationship built on trust as brothers and sisters in Christ, and then the relationship ensued. Places of purity- Michelle also shared that she was a virgin at the time that she married and that the true mark of her testimony of purity was certainly her personal determination and being adamant about saving herself for her husband, however, Lee saw the need to protect her honor in this endeavor because he did not want her to be scarred, because Michelle had made a „promise‟ to God to remain pure until marriage. She shares vital principles of purity in many of her 6
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http://www.facebook.com/MichelleBonilla
Continued... conferences throughout the country for young girls where she discusses topics on self worth and self image. VMWM: How can the church partner with Christian artists such as yourself as an alternative to today‟s artists that do not have the message which facilitates the support of our youth developing proper relationships with God as Father? How do we make sure that your message comes to light in the lives of our youth? M.B. Get to know artists that are unyielding & uncompromising. Come alongside of these artists. Invite them to your church. Churches need to be less afraid and intimidated of different kinds of music. our youth need to be listening to hear life-changing principles in music, to combat messages that come through artists like Mickey Minaj etc. we must be radical in a time when we need to go against the status quo…. Michelle can be found on Facebook & Twitter for more information, please visit: www.michellebonilla.com
“Loved and Clothed in Righteousness”
INSPIRATION
Lisa Winchell, M.A.; In His Image Counseling and Training www.inhisimagecounseling.org 813-684-7927 The best news we can hear today is, “We are royal daughters and sons of the most High God, we are not orphans”! God sees us, runs to us, wraps His arms around us, kisses us, and infuses us with His identity, love, and righteousness. We belong! He is our Abba, Daddy! We are loved, we are accepted, and we are fully pleasing to Him in Christ Jesus! Knowing this truth sets us free! When I speak of truth, I am speaking of the truth about who He is and who we are in Him. These two facts are the center of life. Even as the earth sits on it‟s axis, I believe these two truths are the axis of our very existence. When we do not have these truths right, we are off kilter, easily shaken, offended, discouraged, led astray, and fearful. Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinketh in His heart, so is he”. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind”. Are we ready to be transformed from orphan thinking to sonship thinking? A son or daughter is secure knowing they belong to the family, and are heirs. An orphan has no sense of belonging, and no inheritance. He or she feels they must struggle and strive for everything. Our Heavenly Daddy, has given the ultimate, in order to adopt us and restore us back to His family, and back to His nature. In His word He reveals to us His love for us, how important we are to Him, and who we are now, in Christ, as His sons and daughters. He asks us to receive this gift and truly experience His love for us, and through us to the world. We receive His love and our new identity, by making the choice to believe the scriptures that reveal these amazing truths. Changing the way we believe means changing the way we think daily. The new thoughts begin to change our old orphan mindset, our false belief systems. We can expect more healthy emotions, like peace and joy. Love will victoriously flow freely through us! It takes time and effort, but much less effort than living life as a slave to the world and our own fleshly needs; fighting and striving for what is already ours. Hebrews 3 and 4, talk about laboring to enter our rest. The Israelites did not enter their rest because of their unbelief. That unbelief is what caused their disobedience. They did not labor to believe the truth of God‟s love and provision for them, but fell prey to the lies of the enemy. The enemy has always been after our true identity since the beginning. Studying carefully, the temptation in the Garden of Eden, and in the desert with Jesus we see this clearly. The enemy challenged who they were, and God‟s love for them. Jesus, of course, was the only one not to falter when He encountered Satan‟s deceptions. He was convinced of whose He was and who He was, thus He mastered the walk of love and holiness and accomplished the Father‟s perfect will! Overcoming power and rest, only come from knowing Daddy‟s love, our identity in Christ, and our own value and worth to Him. The Word says that God is love. So I often direct my clients to First Corinthians 13:4-8a and then to replace the word love with My Heavenly Father or Daddy, whichever best ministers to them. I ask them to write it out; my Heavenly Father is patient with me, my Heavenly Father is kind to me, and so on, and meditate on it each morning, and evening. The next step I give is to add some “Who I am in Christ” scriptures throughout the day. As you and I meditate on His word, we are to ponder, and consider, not just recite words. So declare and ponder with me now, “God is my Dad, I am His son/daughter, He loves me, and He has clothed me with His righteousness”!
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Selflessness… To many, selflessness is a hard subject. It seems to be a weak version of being oneself. It can feel like you must be spineless in order to be selfless. In many cases, we see selflessness as someone who will put up with something that we dare not put up with. Someone who takes a type of attitude or way of living that we would not take. A person who does “noble” things that one with some good sense would not do. There are many different noble positions in life. Many selfless positions that people either find themselves in or actually seek for. But in order to be selfless you must be willing to see “truth.” Not truth of right or wrong, but truths that determine the place and heart of an individual. This willingness empowers you to bypass many forms of jealousy, anger, and envy toward another. Although subtle in its ways, half the time, you never see them coming. What am I referring to? I am referring to leadership. Leadership is a broad word that can go into many places. It is also a position that should not be taken lightly and should be respected in any capacity. It is also a strong position that carries it‟s
weight and that weight can have a price or it may not. But there is only a price when you feel that the responsibilities surrounding this position have enough value to cause you to lose. If you feel you are losing because of another‟s leadership then you feel that you have a bill in life to pay. How do you pay? You pay with your heart and trust. You pay with lack of identity and being unsure. You pay with years of not knowing who you are and giving of your time without anything in return. But when you know that leadership is a way of life and not just a position, you will understand that there is no bill for what one already is. And there is nothing to pay. You must release yourself from undue and unneeded pressure of what you think YOU have to be. That understanding is how you become selfless when you are connected, married, or planning to marry leadership. And when you become selfless, you have room, time, and space to find yourself. So where do you stand right now? Are you connected, married, or plan to marry? Is your significant other a leader already, becoming a greater leader, or becoming a leader, if so then permit all that GREATNESS to happen! You have attracted who you are to yourself! They are not alone, because you are a leader too!
Watch them grow as you grow and you will become the most awesome people you have ever met. Remember that it is not your job to make their leadership easier by forfeiting the leader that you are. That is where we fail miserably over and over again! We can feel that “agreement” or “commitment” is to sit back and “let” life manifest for another. NO! Since you are now becoming your own GREATEST self, you will not have time to “spend” your life dealing with the subtle and not so obvious moments of jealousy, hatred, and envy. And since you are focused on your own PATH and PURPOSE in life, you will see that selflessness will be automatic. I didn‟t say it would be easy, I just said that it can be done. Much Love. ~Ms. B
Dr. Undrai & Bridget Fizer c/o The Kairos Institute of Personal Discovery PO Box 91038 *Houston, Texas*77291 Home office: 832-229-5392 or 713-481-5365
www.fizer.org
KNOW YOUR PURPOSE
KNOW YOUR POTENTIAL
RECOGNIZE YOUR PATH
BRIDGET
INSPIRES... Dr. Bridget E. Fizer, MLS.
"IT'S ALL ABOUT knowing your Purpose AND knowing your Potential WHILE recognizing your Path." 8
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D
ivinely
O
rchestrated
Magda Franscois & Donnette Esthelhomme
It was summer 2005 when we met, specifically the third weekend of the Freshman Summer Institute program at the University of South Florida. A week later, we both felt as though we had been friends forever, and began doing everything together. The intimacy between us was so insync, but because of our lack of a relationship in Christ, we did not realize that this friendship was divinely orchestrated. Our fluctuating spiritual walk with Christ is just one example elaborating how synchronous we were. Specifically, whenever one of us was consistently studying The Word, the other was doing the same. Conversely, when one regressed, the other did the same, without initially being aware that this pattern was occurring. As time progressed, an event occurred that revealed the divinity of our friendship. Two years into our relationship, we had no arguments, division, differences; basically we just jelled, that is until a “friend” came into our lives. There was something unusual about this friend, because of the way she leeched onto us. As we previously stated, since we were thermometers for Christ with fluctuations in our walk with Him, we were not able to discern the spirit that was behind this individual. She entered our friendship as a caring, reliable, and loving person. In retrospect, we determined that this was a method of her manipulation. Dissention between us aroused the minute she entered our lives. We now started having argu-
ments, divisions, and differences pertaining trivial matters which were unfamiliar to us and most importantly, it always seemed to be in relations to this “new friend.” Another aspect of this friendship which was weird was the fact that dealing with her in any aspect, even the fun things, was draining and suffocating to us. In hindsight, we know now that we were dealing with spiritual issues, specifically the spirit of witchcraft, anger, the python and the lying spirit to name a few. Speaking to people about the dynamics of this “new friendship” they never understood why we could not get out of the friendship. However, we felt stuck, as though we had no way of escaping from the grasp of this “friend”. In our mindset, we felt that we did not have grounds to end this “friendship”. “Well she is a good friend”, “What would be our reasons to end this friendship?”, “Maybe we can help lead her to Christ!”…..were some of our thoughts. Yea, yea, we know, we were spiritual dummies! After finally letting her go, literally, it felt as if a burden was lifted. We were now able to consistently walk with Christ. This birthed a new hunger for The Word, our friendship was restored and since then there has not been any dissension between us. This is how we knew that this “new friendship” was a spiritual attack to come and destroy our connection and to siphon the anointing out of our
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lives. Presently, the dynamics of our relationship has changed. Donnette is now a married woman, and Magda is still single. We are still best friends; however, the aspects of our friendship had to change. We could no longer spend as much time with each other or do everything together as we did once before. At times we struggle with accepting the reality that married people have to surround themselves with married people, likewise for single people. To combat this, we have developed a strategy to help us maintain our bond. For example, we set monthly appointments to spend time with each other and we keep each other inform about what is going on in each other‟s life which also serves as accountability. All-in-all, we are still in the process of transitioning and learning about our new roles for this season in our lives. In summary, we feel that our friendship is a replica of David and Jonathan‟s friendship. According to 1 Samuel 18, we see David and Jonathan based their friendship on a commitment to God, not just each other; they let nothing or no one come between them; and they drew closer together when their friendship was tested. This is the blueprint that illustrates our divinely orchestrated friendship.
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HEALTH
“Well Dr. Felder, It's a...”
fibroid(s) but the future possibility of developing new fibroids. This should be done in women who no longer wish to have children. If “Congratulations. You're pregnant. But you seem farther along than the dates you give.” Those were the words of my obstetrician you choose a hysterectomy and are not post menopausal, try to 12 years ago. Could it be we were having twins? My husband is a keep your ovaries. You want to receive the full health benefits from the hormones the ovaries produce. Another option is just twin and so the thought was exciting. But that possibility was removing the fibroid (a myomectomy) and leave the uterus intact. quickly laid to rest after the ultrasound informed us that we had Embolization, is another procedure that attempts to shrink the one healthy baby and a uterine fibroid. I am not alone. Uterine fibroids are a common ailment, especially fibroid by cutting off its blood supply and again leaves the uterus intact. Because most fibroids do not cause any problems, most in black women. They are benign (not cancerous) growths that women do not need to do anything. But deciding which option is are found in the uterus. Most are small and cause no problems. best for you needs to be based on a case by case basis. The inHowever, some may grow to the size of oranges or grapefruits and cause pain. Depending on the location inside the uterus, they formation provided here is just that, information, so you will feel more comfortable discussing your best options with your doctor. may cause heavy or frequent vaginal bleeding. So think of what is best for you and then share with your doctor Fibroids are typically found during a routine pelvic examination your thoughts and concerns. That way you will come to the best (which every woman should have annually). They may also be found like mine was, during an imaging procedure such as a pel- solution for you. vic ultrasound. Some women will present to their doctor because of abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during intercourse, fullness in To Your Good Health, their abdomen, difficulty urinating or constipation. Dr. Faith If fibroids are detected, don’t assume a hysterectomy is your only option. There are several factors to consider. Number one is your age. If you are close to menopause (around 51years old) a watchand-see approach may be best for you. During menopause the amount of estrogen (a female hormone) your body produces, decreases. Estrogen causes fibroids to grow, so if there is less estrogen, fibroids will stop growing or start to shrink. A second factor to consider is the degree of bleeding. If your periods are severe enough to cause anemia (low blood count) and the resulting fatigue or shortness of breath, then a wait-and-see approach would not be best for you. Finally you should consider the degree of discomfort. Some people have a very high tolerance of pain and others do not. You have to decide what is tolerable for you. Is the pain so severe it is disrupting your quality of life? Are you missing days from work? Do you avoid intercourse because at times it is too painful? Are you taking prescription pain medication so you can function during the day? If so, a more definitive plan may be appropriate for you. So what are your options? We mentioned the wait-and- see approach. But if you are bleeding heavily or in severe pain there are several medical and surgical options. The medical options are hormonal therapy to shrink the fibroid and/ or to control the abnormal vaginal bleeding. Surgical options are a hysterectomy where the entire uterus is removed. This will not only remove the existing Dr. Faith Felder “Dr. Faith” is a board certified Internal Medicine physician practicing in the Tampa Bay area since 1997. A motivational health speaker, Dr. Faith‟s health message is heard on the radio WTMP every Wednesday morning. Dr. Faith encourages her patients to live a healthier lifestyle by incorporating exercise and eating a balanced diet in their daily lives. She plans to inspire and challenge people of all ages to get outdoors and walk in her national initiative City Walk City Fit. More recently, Dr. Faith has created a small business wellness program for small business‟ who lack insurance. This program enables Tampa small business owners and their employees to address minor health issues prior to them becoming major health problems. If good health appeals to you and you would like Dr. Faith to speak at your nonprofit or corporate event she can be reached at DrFaith@DrFaithFelder.com or via telephone at (813) 874-2642. 10
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The Heart of the Matter… “God is sovereign over the heart and over the matter” Physicians worked to revitalize her heart for over four months to no avail. Her heart function plummeted and reached an ejection fraction, the rate of blood pumped from the heart with each beat, of 17%. It was then determined that only a new heart would sustain the life of then 15 year old Jasmine Le‟Shea Honeysucker. An Honor Roll and Dean‟s List student, member of the band, and member of the color guard, Jasmine began her sophomore year of high school like many other teenagers. Outside of school and school associated activities, Jasmine was an active member of the church where her father was Pastor. The fall semester of 2000 seemed normal for Jasmine. As time progressed, however, Jasmine experienced abnormal physical symptoms. She became tired sooner during exercise, she had a continuous cough, she was tired more frequently, etc. Symptoms worsened to the extent that Jasmine could no longer lay down to sleep, rather she slept sitting up right to prevent choking on the water that would surface each time she coughed. Late on the evening of October 1, 2001, when Jasmine got up from the couch where she now slept to walk to the restroom, she made it there but she could not make it back. Mom called 911 and Jasmine was rushed to the Emergency Room; she was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The cause of which was deemed a viral attack, type unknown. Jasmine was well cared for and monitored at All Children‟s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida for approximately three months. She was one of the nurses‟ favorite patients, always polite and when at all possible wearing a smile. Jasmine was so joyous in sickness that one nurse told her she was in denial, but being assured that the one true and living God she served was real and sovereign, Jasmine kept smiling. She comforted her parents by consistently reaffirming her faith in God aloud. She said to them with the utmost confidence, “what God has for me is for me.” She kept that motto throughout her stay at All Children‟s, and held on to it even more tightly after she was transferred to Tampa General Hospital where she was added to the waiting list to receive a new heart. Doctors told her parents that there was a great possibility that Jasmine would be paralyzed from the neck down. People throughout the Tampa Bay area and throughout the nation prayed for her. Her social worker Debbie even had her church pray over and send a prayer cloth to Jasmine. She put it under her pillow just before she went to sleep on February 23, 2001. “I was awakened with haste during the dark hours of the morning on February 24 th, 2001; my heart had come in,” Jasmine recalled. They rushed her down for surgery, and several hours later Jasmine‟s blood and oxygen was being pumped by a heart born to another, but now hers. “You see, I was far from in denial. I knew that if God wanted me to live on earth or in Heaven with Him, He would take care of me. He did and continues to do just that,” Jasmine says. „What God has for me is for me‟ is still one of Jasmine‟s mottos. A large victory was counted on February 24, 2001, but Jasmine realizes that the battle is not over. God made the human body an amazingly intelligent organism. It sees a transplanted organ as a 11
foreign object, so it works to rid the body of it as it would if anything else harmful enters it. This being said, Jasmine has encountered several bouts of rejection (her immune system attacking and causes harm to the heart) since her transplant, but God has seen her through each victoriously. Anti-rejection or immunosuppressant medicine works to keep the body‟s immune system from attacking the heart. When the body recognizes that one attack no longer works, it often devises another plan. In many cases the plan is a chronic rejection caused by the creation and work of Donor Specific Antibodies (DSAs). DSAs have worked to thicken the lining of the arteries surrounding Jasmine‟s the heart. In March 2011 physicians found that Jasmine had two diseased arteries, one of which physicians were able to treat, and the other they were not. A stent helped to relieve the narrowing of one artery, and “the power of God will bring healing to the other. It was by God‟s power that healing came via the work of physicians, and by His power it can come without their work,” Jasmine said. The Voice of Manifestation Magazine: “So how would you describe your outlook pertaining to your health now?” Jasmine: “I would say that I am confident that my health is and will be, to the glory of God. My outlook regarding my health is that God will continue to manifest healing until my purpose has been fulfilled. He who has begun a good work in me will complete it. When my purpose is fulfilled here, I will live on purpose with my Father in Heaven; or as I like to say, I will live until I die, then I will live again. I will do what I can to be a good steward over my body: exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, see my physician & adhere to good instruction, minimize stress, etc. I know that God will continue to show His sovereignty in my life by allowing the help that I and physicians can provide, and by providing what we cannot provide. I rest assured each night knowing that God is sovereign over all, including my heart and the matter of my health.” Jasmine graduated Largo High School with honors in 2003, went on to earn an undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida in 2007, and is now studying to obtain a Master‟s degree in Communication with a Health Specialization at the University of Illinois online. She shares her story and the WomenHeart “Take Charge of Your Heart Health” message with others within the Tampa Bay area each year by volunteering as a local WomenHeart Champion. She wants others to know that although the onset of her heart disease is one that is rare, heart disease is the number one killer of women and of all Americans. “We have to take charge of our heart health. In order to do this, we must seek and trust God, learn about and be attentive to our risk factors and symptoms, and be proactive by taking preventative measures.” For more information Jasmine invites women to visit www.womenheart.org, www.womenheart.org/kit to obtain a free heart health action kit, or the American Heart Association website www.heart.org.
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Being About the...BUSINESS
Stephanie Y. Wright Project Manager for Dr. Faith Felder Stephanie Y. Wright is a home town girl, born and raised in Tampa, Florida. She attended King High School and from there went to the only university in Florida, THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA. Yes, she is a Gator and proud of it! After graduation, she worked for various companies in sales and management. With a background in Public Relations, she then moved to Anchorage, Alaska where she worked for Alyeska Pipeline during the Valdez Oil Spill. A few years later, she moved back to the bay area and began a career as a Network Developer for the insurance industry. After about twenty years in the insurance business she now has taken on the position as a Project Manager for Dr. Faith Felder, where she is responsible for all marketing, sales and events. Stephanie is the mother of two wonderful daughters, Khai and Khoi and spends her spare time speaking/ mentoring to girls, designing one of a kind pieces for Alotta Stuff by Steph, her custom designed jewelry line and working out.
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“Delivered From the Hand of Evil” My life‟s journey began in a small town just outside of the city limits. I was the only child of middle-aged parents who agreed to never argue in front of the child(ren). So, I rarely (if ever) witnessed any marital discord, and certainly never any heated disputes. However, I can vividly remember hearing the phone ring during the late night hours and having to ride into the city to my dad‟s sister‟s house. She and her husband drank heavily and would often have altercations. When things really got out of hand, one of them would call my parents to come in to referee a fight that, even as a child I thought it should have long been over. Their daughter and I didn‟t know each other well, but would find ourselves cuddled together in a corner for refuge. It‟s hard to believe, but I can still smell the night air, feel my clumsy feet trying not to stumble on the cinder block step that led into their house. The stench of alcohol was horrible! The smell of blood was worse! The face of my battered aunt was a nightmare that recurred for several years in my dreams…a nightmare I thought I would never experience. However, I did, several times over and almost to the point of my death.
TESTIMONY Elise Thompson - Hickory, N.C “Shy, intelligent, conservative were words that described me in my youth. Strong willed, thinker, risk taker in my young adult years. Fearful, unsure, insecure in my middle age. Where had the real me gone, and who had I become?”
As a survivor of domestic violence, I have an opportunity to do something that many don‟t – that is to tell others my story. It was never my intent to surrender to the string of progressively abusive relationships. Yet, I did because I did not know my value, the God who created and placed me on earth, nor His transforming Word. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Abusers are simply being used by demonic forces to thwart the plans of God. Did I know that at the time? No! So, it took some time to grasp Jeremiah 29:12 which says, “Then shall ye call upon me and ye shall go and pray unto me and I will hearken unto you.” I never knew that a relationship with God meant that I could actually ask Him for something and receive it. During the last altercation with my husband, I asked God to deliver me from the hand of evil. He did, and I have never returned. Recently, I shared some of the details of my experiences via a public presentation. Immediately, I felt a weight lifted. “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony” (Rev. 12:11). I will continue to share my story. It is an honor, and it is God‟s Will.
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ady
isa ones
“Born to S.O.A.R”
“April is Sexual Violence awareness month and on April 30, 2011, I participated in the nation's boldest, highest-altitude, and most daring effort to put an end to sexual assault. It's called Operation Freefall: The Two-Mile High Stand Against Sexual Assault®. I am super excited to have participated in this event. I dedicate this jump to N.O.S.I.S. (No One Suffers In Silence) Sexual Abuse Support Group. N.O.S.I.S. is founded by me, Lisa Jones, a devoted wife, loving mother, mentor and a survivor of childhood sexual abuse.” Sexual violence results in the shattering of a person‟s worth, dignity and self-esteem. Sexual abuse is one of the most devastating forms of abuse because our sexuality is so closely connected with our identity. Think about it carefully, what is your identity tied to? The answer is your sense of self. This form of abuse does not simply impact the victim, but all sexual abuse is destructive to victims, perpetrators and the entire community. N.O.S.I.S. was established to assist adult survivors of past childhood sexual abuse in overcoming the emotional and destructive mindsets through group-settings that focus on restoration, healing and help to create a sense of self-worth.
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N.O.S.I.S. (No One Suffers In Silence)!!
"BREAKING THE SILENCE AGAINST SEXUAL ABUSE ONE VOICE AT A TIME" 1 out of 4 girls and 1 out of 7-10 boys will experience nonconsensual sexual assault before their 18th birthday. 75% of all reported sexual assaults on children are committed by someone the victim knows and trusts. 87% of all sexual assault victims are female 97% of all sexual offenders are male The stunning facts stated above are only what have been reported. Many people will see these numbers as just statistical facts, while for many others; being one of those numbers is a REALITY. Sexual abuse is the shattering of a person‟s worth, dignity and self-esteem. All sexual abuse is destructive to the victim, the perpetrator, and the entire community. Sexual abuse is one of the most devastating forms of abuse. Our sexuality is so closely connected with our identity in the world and our sense of self. As I now reflect back as an adult and presently a survivor of incest and sexual abuse, I can remember my first encounter with sexual abuse beginning at around age four. Fondling and improper touching progressed to more traumatic acts as I got older for a span of 9 years, until I reached the age of fifteen. I was abused by my grandfather and other males who were close in association and well trusted by the family. I was not aware that the things that I was experiencing were not normal nor should they have been happening. Due to the fact that it was happening so frequent, I accepted the behavior as normal. I was questioned many times by my mother and my aunt. They would ask if anyone was bothering me but I repeatedly responded "NO." One of the reasons for this was because of a fear that I was in trouble. On the other hand I was told not to tell. Again, I assumed that what was happening to me was just normal. It was not until the third grade that I realized that something was wrong. During that time we were being taught the difference between good touch- bad touch and stranger danger. The organization which facilitated the program exercise was the Menendez Foundation. Finally admitting that the abuse was happening, I quickly began feeling that I was being resisted and rejected by my family.
life in an attempt to escape the reality of my world. My turning point came when I realized that I could no longer live the rest of my life as a victim. It was time to become a “VICTOR.” Healing the scarred soul takes time, perseverance, a desire to get better, hope, and the ability to seek out and ask for help. Healing the scars that damages the soul takes time and openness to a process. I believe that anyone struggling with the secrecy and pain of rape or sexual abuse need a positive support system, but most importantly Christ is the ultimate source. There have been many things in my life that have been affected because of the abuse that I suffered. I have dealt with many disappointing cycles and struggles, however, I realize that it has been those things that have helped to mold me into the woman of God that I have grown to be. In spite of my painful past, God has given me a strong desire to reach out to others who are struggling from the trauma of sexual abuse. I have been on the journey to healing for over 15 years now and although a lot has been accomplished in the process, at times I still struggle with emotional scars from the abuse that I went through when I was a child. Unlike physical scars, someone traumatized by sexual abuse doesn't “look” like he or she is hurting. Those who have been abused are often left with emotional scars that transcend all areas of their lives. Most of us have learned how to hide our secrets, our struggles and even our feelings, so we end up being numb and silent. Unfortunately the silence of abuse „seemingly‟ causes the joy, peace and the fullness of God to be unobtainable for so many. I believe N.O. S.I.S. will serve as a safe place for the “voice of the silent” to break their silence, and move forth in their journey toward healing.” N.O.S.I.S (No One Suffers In Silence) It is true that many people are trying to get over their past issues related to sexual abuse, but may not know where to start. N.O.S.I.S. was established to assist adult survivors of sexual abuse in overcoming the emotional and destructive pains of their past childhood experiences. This is accomplished through group-settings which focus on restoration, healing and hope. “In order to become an advocate and a voice for the victims of sexual abuse, I have recently become a partner with the Sexual Violence Taskforce and also the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.”
Having these feelings caused a great deal of shame and a sense of guilt which caused me to become angry with my life. Lacking support and stability in my environment, I rapidly became self-destructive. Low self-esteem issues, promiscuity, poor school attendance, drinking and other poor choices began to invade my 15 VMWM * APRIL 2011 * 15
“Being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent.” ~Marilyn vos Savant
“The jump was simply breath- taking, yet it‟s empowering to know that the Lord breathed into a life that once had no hope or peace. I am thankful for being able to be an example to get women to realize that rape, molestation or incest is NOT a death sentence or a state in which to remain paralyzed. Healing from this once „taboo‟ subject has not been easy but I fight because I know it‟s needed. I am forever grateful to know that the Father used what was meant for my demise, it is now helping me to keep fighting to live and NOT JUST EXIST. I was born to S.O.A.R.”
~ Lady Lisa Jones N.O.S.I.S (No One Suffers In Silence)
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The Mothers of Manifestation Panel Discussion was very empowering, informative & enlightening!
regular basis. God‟s original design was that we as women of God become Well Organized Maintaining Adonai‟s Nature! When we enWomen of today need Godly Wisdom that comes not from their peers, tertain thoughts that are acceptable to Him about our past and learn how but from “seasoned” women of God. We are blessed when we have an to process why He permitted us to go through whatever we have come opportunity to hear real life testimonies of how others overcome. through, then we can model the lifestyle and habits that reflect a mainteThough these were victims of hard circumstances, in spite of all the nance of His Divine Nature, (Adonai). things they suffered, these mighty women of God chose to embrace God‟s Nature, as opposed to responding to the demands of their adverse Today we are fortunate if we have Mothers of Manifestation that commit to this generation by „speaking out‟ to let our young ladies in the situations. In this generation they have identified with the areas that women in the body of Christ deal with and it is not different from when body of Christ know what course of life they once travelled. Help the younger women to understand that God has a plan for their lives, howthey lived during the challenging times in their lives when they were young women. Life has a way of dealing you cards that are intended to ever, they must choose to endure life tests and trials and embrace Adonai‟s Nature. It is a choice to live a life that pleases Him in the face make you a woman that is reflective of being Wide Open Mean And of adversity. Nasty. This is not God‟s design for Christian women, who are carriers The journey is so much easier when you adhere to Godly Wisdom from of His life, yet in the church because many have not dealt with their Mothers to Daughters. inner self, this is the personality that we often interact with on a very
Mother Jeanette Biggs Is the mother of 3 sons, one of which is Dr. Mark T. Jones, Sr. She is also the ministry leader of D-Vine & Destiny young ladies dance ministry at CFM
Mother Kathleen Ransom-69 Mother of 2 sons. She is an ordained 5 fold ministry Evangelist. Hospitality Ministry leader and also assist in 3 nursing home ministries 17
Mother Anne Winston - 78 Mother of one son. A new covenant partner of Manifestations Worldwide, she enjoys nursing home ministries with Mothers Ransom & Graham.
Mother Mae Graham- 73 mother of 3 daughters and 1 son. She is an assistant to the Jr. Emerge youth ministry. She and husband Deacon Curtis Graham are the ministry leaders of The Seasoned Seniors Ministry of CFM. They also assist in Greeters Ministry as well as visit the nursing homes where they offer up prayer and teach Bible study to the residents.
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Elements that that Unite Unite us us in in our our Cross Cross Cultural Cultural Revolution: Revolution: 44 Elements
Worship Word of God Prayer Evangelism
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March 10, 2011 was a special time of gathering of the saints during Manifestation Worldwide first Cross Cultural Glory Encounter hosted by Manifestations Worldwide Bilingual. The purpose of the conference was to encourage and admonish the body of Christ that God has always had the intent to bring ALL PEOPLE into ONE covenant. The only culture God wants to preserve is "Kingdom Culture."
CFM EMPOWERED ENGAGEMENTS Special Events Team
Dr. Dorinda Clark Cole’s 3rd Annual Singer’s and Musician’s Conference was held on April 1-3,2011 at Manifestations Worldwide. Apostle Mark T. Jones Sr. Host Pastor Clark Sister appeared Courtesy of: OMJ Planning & Consulting
Special Guest The Clark Sisters, Sunday Best Winner Leandria Johnson, Sunday Best Finalist Elder Durward Davis, Recording Artist. Troy Sneed
Randall C. was the guest Emcee for Friday night. Judges were (l to r) Elder Durward Davis, Troy Sneed, & Clark Sisters Twinkie, Dorinda, Karen & Jackie. 19 VMWM * APRIL 2011
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As a CFM Partner and a Manifesting Sons praise and worship leader, Pastor Antonio Miranda, shares with the Voice of Manifestation the impact that the Cross Cultural Conference had on his life. As a product of Cuban heritage, Pastor Miranda’s experience during the Cross Cultural Conference became evidence of his personal desire to see the unity of nations in sharing in the Gospel of Christ. Pastor Miranda is purposed to bring the Gospel of Christ to the country of Cuba and becoming an agent for the manifestation of the Kingdom of God in the communist territory. The conference was amazing! I was honored to be a part of what God is doing in this hour and that is the manifestation of Him through cultural unity. The personal encounter that I experienced helped reinvigorate many facets of my life. This conference not only redirected my purpose, but it energized my life in terms of my calling. The fire that was rooted and still resonates in me from the conference was initially ignited by the praise team experience. On one pulpit, in one praise and worship experience were the teams from the Center for Manifestation and Abundant Love. One team dominated by African-Americans and the other by Hispanics. And though it may have looked different, sounded different, and in spite of the cultural differences of the teams we united and operated in oneness with the sole purpose of glorifying God in one accord! Never before had the CFM praise team shared a stage and glorified God through praise in English and in Spanish. Each person had to have sought God for a new experience because from the beginning everyone operated under the understanding that it was not about being African American or Hispanic, but it was about worshipping God and God alone! God had established the hearts of His worshippers for this experience. Never did anyone waiver on the oneness and unity God was calling us into. Every member was operating in such a spirit of excellence that the flow was undeniable. The relationship between the two praise teams was out of this world and we each felt as though we knew each other from growing up together! God was up to something. So often individuals can get caught up in the routine of ministry but God shifted and removed “routine” from ministry during this conference. As God had begun to stir up in me ‘newness’ during the first two nights, I entered the final night of the conference expecting an explosion of God’s Spirit and purpose. And so it happened, it was through Pastor Mark Jr. and Nathaniel Nater that my ministry took on a new purpose. It initially happened when Pastor Mark Jr. started singing a song that God birthed in him that night, “I want to dance with you Jesus, take the lead,” and at that moment I closed my eyes and danced with Jesus. God was moving in me and I was caught up in the atmospheric shift that God purposed through this conference. Then, during that very service the fire from heaven descended and saturated the sanctuary when Nathaniel began to worship. Nathaniel’s ministering blessed me in so many ways and truthfully his anointing blew my mind. And there it was, to see him sing so fluently in Spanish and English opened a new door in my life. As a product of African American and Cuban heritage this conference brought me back to the days of growing up with my father and grandmother, both are from Cuba. My father arrived in America when he was twenty-five years old and did not speak English. Coincidentally, my grandmother still does not speak English and so you can only imagine what I had to go through living with them. During the time in which I lived with them I was forced into learning the Spanish
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language. I simply had no choice in the matter because I had to be able to survive with my grandmother while my dad was away at work. Being from a Hispanic heritage and having family members that are still in Cuba, I have a yearning to bring the Gospel to Cuba and to my family. Some of whom I have never met before. This conference touched me and gave me a renewed hope through the experience of being a part of Hispanic and African American cultures coming together to worship the same God! My personal prayer and desire is to be a catalyst in sending the gospel of Jesus Christ to Cuba and putting an end to communism. I believe and stand on this desire because with God the possibilities are endless. While attending the conference God gave me Isaiah 40-31 “Those who hope in Lord will soar on wings like eagles.” In this scripture God showed me that we are all becoming what we were called to be, because it is already in us. Ironically, the Cross Cultural Conference showed me that the unifying of cultures was our ‘becoming’ what we were called to be. ‘Becoming’ is surely in our DNA and before you see the beautiful wings of a butterfly it has its beginning as a caterpillar. From this, I saw the lives of the saints mirroring the butterfly process. Like us, the butterfly must go through a process. During the process it begins to crawl with the intent of learning and surviving, although its true purpose is to fly. In our ministries we learn the preliminary stages of ‘becoming’ with those that are like us. We grow and are processed together in our likenesses. In the butterfly, the cocoon is then formed (hedge of protection) and only in that place will the transformation take place to become the butterfly it was called to be and fly. Transformation causes the butterfly to experience and encounter new adventures and new relationships with those that are like them but not quite like them. It sees and experiences what it could not and did not when it could only crawl. As part of this transformative conference, I am not just flying but I am soaring. The night of worship was ordained by God for me. I believe that and I stand on that. It has birthed a desire within me that continues to pull on my calling and I decided that evening that I am going to continue to move forward boldly into my calling. It was at the very moment that the altar call was issued during the service that I knew that God had ordained the night for me. It happened when Prophetess Michelle Guess called everyone to the altar and the premise was for those who desired to worship in other languages and to take their worship to another level. She made a statement and the translation that God downloaded into my spirit was that,” God would not waste His power on someone that is not for real.” And there it was and my response was, “God, tonight I give myself away to you. Not my will, but your will be done.” God showed me that all I have to do is seek the kingdom first and EVERYTHING will be added to me.
~ Pastor Antonio Miranda
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By Chianti Price
Can personal biases actually exist in the believers of God? Can a believer prefer one speaker over another? Can a believer prefer one type of praise and worship over another? Could personal biases be hidden in believers and believers not now? Yes!
The recent Cross Cultural Glory Encounter unexpectedly served as a forum to expose hidden and not so hidden biases within believers. After reflecting back on the conference, I believe that one of God’s goals was to bring to the forefront those underlying personal biases within believers and eradicate them for the purpose of arming us with another spiritual weapon in our arsenal of weapons. So how do I know this you ask? Well…….. So there I was, expectantly waiting for the move of God during the first night of the conference. The CFM praise team was scheduled to invoke the presence of God and Apostle Jones was going to do what he always does, bring the power of God’s word for this hour. As the praise team came to the platform along with members of the Abundant Love praise team I was ready. I was ready to praise the house down and worship into the Holy of Holies. As the night began, we entered into praise. The team was on fire, the presence of the Lord had already filled the sanctuary, expectations were high, praise was moving right along and then. Yes, and then we began to sing in Spanish. Suddenly, something came up out of me that I would have never expected in a million years. I said to myself, “can we go back to singing in English.” At that very moment I hit the pause button in my thought process. Where did this come from? I began to speak within myself and question what in the world was going on. Sure, I had to hear the words first so I could get my flow of how to sing it in Spanish, but something else was going on inside. I did not want to sing in Spanish, but wanted to sing in English. At that moment, God spoke to me and we were having a conversation in the middle of the song. I said to God that I cannot be biased or have biases but He said, “But you are and you do. There are some personal biases in you that need to be annihilated so that I can do what it is I need to do in you.” Here I am getting chastised by God in the middle of praise service. Following a few minutes of deep pondering, I finally realized that He was right. Isn’t it ironic that He was right from the onset but it took me a few minutes to acknowledge that He was. I guess I should explain that my shock is centered on the fact that I grew up with Hispanics and I clearly understand the language. How can I, someone that has had Hispanic friends since I was young be biased against praising in Spanish. Then it hit me, I had to stop looking at it from a granular standpoint. What God exposed in me was not about having a personal bias against praising in Spanish, it was about allowing any bias to be rooted in me at all. He used what I was familiar with to expose the reality that I have personal biases. I then began to examine not only myself, but to question how many other believers have biases that are either rooted deep and hidden or are evident but do not choose to eradicate them. Do these statements sound familiar, “I am not going to church tonight because so and
so is not preaching,” “I am not participating in this ministry because so and so is the leader,” “I am not singing this song because there’s something about the way so and so sings it that vexes my spirit,” “I want to give him/her an encouraging word, but I don’t know how they will receive it,” “I want to befriend with this brother/sister, but I don’t know “He is too ghetto or too proper to me.”
Biases serve as a conduit to lower one’s quality of life and access to royal benefits. Israel also had a personal bias called familiarity. Familiarity as a bias can cause us to miss what God has planned for us because He is requiring us to operate through what is not familiar. Israel was more comfortable operating in the pagan way of life over God’s way of life. God was their King of Kings and in spite of God being THE KING, they wanted to be like pagan nations and have a human king appointed to rule over them. They had God, but wanted a man. Personal biases serve as a blockade to both kingdom advancement and personal advancement. I had the privilege of attending a Diversity Leadership Institute provided by my corporation a few years ago and the focus of the institute was to bring awareness to the importance of understanding diversity and working effectively within diverse organizations. The end result is that if you are aware of the cultural characteristics of your fellow colleagues you can then appreciate their cultural differences and work together to accomplish the common goal. The same holds true with our roles as kingdom construction workers. The term, ‘working well with others’ is utilized often and is essential to the success of the kingdom. The ability to work well with others requires the learned ability to understand your fellow believer and where they came from and the experiences they encountered which causes them to act or think the way that they do. We too often magnify our differences and minimize our similarities. When Israel went to war in the Promised Land, Judah did not look at Simeon and say, I don’t want to fight with you because you are of Simeon. You murdered your sister’s rapist in rage and are no good. Judah and Simeon partnered together to fulfill the will of God and that is to possess the land that was promised and dispossess the current inhabitants. As much as we jump on Israel for doing the wrong thing, catch the flow of them operating in effective cross cultural glory in this endeavor. The ability to focus on identifying and magnifying differences in one another is evidence that a personal bias does exists! We honestly cannot win with this type of mindset and during my ten minute life lesson in the middle of praise service, God worked with me to identify and eradicate personal biases within me. The question was: Can personal biases be in the heart of believers? The Cross Cultural Glory Conference served as Eradication Central! God established a shift in the atmosphere to cross cultural glory. He accomplished this through putting an End to Cultural Preservation and appreciating our differences through love (Act 10:9 – 15). We have work to do and personal biases cannot not be an inhibitor to accomplishing kingdom advancement.
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It was a Monday evening that I fell to my knees at the altar and cried like no man could ever think that he could. It was unthinkable heavy. The weight of my world was upon me. The enemy was trying to kill me. In a fetal position still at the altar, I cried out “he‟s trying to kill me” Why! Why! Why! had I been ambushed. In a meeting with my pastor – (Apostle Hadden), he told me that my night at the altar was a clear sign that God had a work for me to do, and that the enemy was not going to take stock in it. The enemy clearly wanted me to fold up completely. Apostle told me to take my hands off of everything and give it to God. It is now his battle and for me to leave it alone. I alone couldn‟t fix what was upon me. Apostle advised me to seek God DAILY and watch God work. Several days later on a Wednesday, I was awakened from a dream. Apostle appeared to me in a dream with tears in his eyes. He had a strong grip on both of my arms and he shook me yelling the number”52.” He repeated over and over “In 52.” As I jumped out of my sleep, I still heard very loudly the number “52” ringing in my ears. Trying to make sense out of the dream, all I could do was grab a nearby calendar and count 52 days from the present date. It turned out to be the very last Sunday in the month of December 2009. Still unclear what all this meant, I was vigilant. I had not had a chance to speak with Apostle about this
encounter. For some odd reason not to my planning, I had a diet of fish for the next three days. That Sunday in church, Apostle brought an anointed word about Jesus and the greatest fish fry ever. That was the multitude being fed with only 5 fish and 2 loaves of bread. That was my first glimpse of the numbers “52” since my dream a week earlier. I immediately felt the Holy Spirit tug me in comfort saying God has it all worked out for you. There was now an urgency to speak to Apostle about the dream and developing events with the number “52”. Apostle didn‟t at all seem overwhelmed by what I told him. Once again, Apostle advised me to continue to seek God DAILY and stay in the fire. He said God will reveal more to you of what he is doing, but you must continue to seek him. It was almost like a father knowing what was at hand, but letting the growing son go through the necessary process. As I began to be more focused on God and His greatness, I begin to see things happen. The weight on my shoulders was being lifted, enemies began to bow out and I didn‟t feel like I had a bull‟s eye on my chest anymore. All that was upon me that Monday night at the altar had COME TO PASS within “52” days. God had reigned in victory for me.
For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. I Corinthians 4:15 Several weeks later my wife opened her bible to read, and happened to open the bible to the book of Nehemiah. Frantically, she called out to me. She asked me to tell her once again about my “52” experience. For the 1000th time, I told her again. She passed me the bible and told me to read where she had her finger. It read that the walls that lay in ruins around Jerusalem were rebuilt in a remarkable record of “52” days. Another sighting of the number ”52.” Chills began to consumed me as I knew that was me. I was the rebuilding project. This is how it sums up. I did not know my life was lying in ruins. God could not use me for his work until I was rebuilt. It took the tear-down to build up. I gave all to God at the altar. That was all he needed in order to go to work. God put me in the fire to purify me. He put enemies before me to strengthen me. He used the trusted man of God, Apostle Hadden to be a rebuilding tool. Visions were given of God‟s work but I was not allowed to clearly see them until the 22
scales were removed completely from my eyes. Then we have the story of Nehemiah. Nehemiah was a man of prayer and he prayed passionately for his people (Nehemiah 1). His zealous intercession for God‟s people foreshadows the great Intercessor, Jesus Christ. Both Nehemiah and Jesus had a burning love for God‟s people which they poured out in prayer to God, interceding for them before the throne. My spiritual father, Apostle Hadden was that Nehemiah in my time of rebuilding. He prayed passionately and fervently for me. Apostle Hadden, also a builder allowed God to use him. Apostle encouraged me to stay on the wall and not come down until the work was finished. He taught me about the three stooges: Sandballat, Tobias and Geshem – opposition that will come against you. Rebuilding my faith was an important part of the work that God wanted to do in my life. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Apostle Hadden understood the assignment on my life and he was an agent of God to forge character in my life. Then he told me that if I stay true to the character of God and walk humbly before the Lord, God will keep promoting me. It was important to Apostle that I stay in a right relationship with God and posture myself according to character and the purpose of God than it was to keep expanding my borders on my own terms. I know that that‟s the heart of a true “Spiritual Father.” I know that Spiritual Fathers is one of the major aspects of the Apostolic Movement. I experienced the super-natural starting from a dream with a “52” star rating. The numbers first heard from Apostle Hadden. When it was just about time to close the curtain, Apostle Hadden made one more request. He asked me to add the numbers of “52” together. Praying for good addition, I came up with “7”. The SPRITUAL number of completion. Through it all, I give the Father God all the Glory. Through it all, I give thanks for my Spiritual Father, apostle Thomas L. Hadden. Submitted by: Deacon Steve Williams
“The relationship between a mother and a daughter is one of the most enriching, loving and important bonds in the family structure. It is also one of the most complicated, as it moves through stages of life for both mother and daughter, sometimes creating strong loving bonds, other times producing stress and tension. But troubled as it may be at times, the celebration of this important relationship is much needed. The Lord placed on my heart two years ago to create an atmosphere where Mothers and Daughters can come together to share and have fun. We as Mother are responsible for setting examples for our daughters on how to live and be that Virtuous Woman.” For more information please visit our website @ www.peopleforchristministries.net Please visit our website often to find out more info about our upcoming events
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Lady Angie Hadden Co - Pastor People For Christ Ministries, Inc.
MANIFESTATIONS WORLDWIDE MINISTRY SCHEDULE MAY
SEP
1 Overflow Ministries Cinn, OH [Dr. Jones] 20-22 FBCM Convocation Weekend: [FR] -Apostle Michelle Kelly [SAT] Pastor M.J. Reid [SUN] Bishop Lewis Williams 26-27 Christ Church of Universal Love [Dr. Jones] men’s conf 28- Community Resource Fair 10am-2:30pm: Renae Kendrick JUNE 9-11 It Takes 3 Marriage Conference Dr. Mark & Lisa Jones 12- Worldwide Missions night 18- FBCM Workshop 19- D-vine & Destiny Anniversary 7pm to 9:30pm 23-24 CFM Men’s Conference 25- CFM Open House Exhibition: Ministry Fair JULY 11-17 Church Anniversary 23- Best Gospel Choir Event at CFM (rescheduled) 23- Mime in Motion
AUG 6 - CFM Leader’s meeting 15 -19 Brazil trip with WWM tour 20 - ESO Mutation Conference 24 * VMWM * APRIL 2011 VMWM ~ APRIL 2011
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5-13 KNEU Crusade Italy / Graduation 16 Victory Temple 5th Anniversary [Dr. Jones ministering] 7:30pm Oct 2 -Worldwide Missions night 5-7 Community Bible Church ConferenceBishop Kenneth Porter [3 day event] Dr. Jones ministering on the 5th 6- Restoration Deliverance Church Spring City, Penn [Dr. Jones] NOV 5-6 Astounding Love California [Dr. Jones] 19- FBCM Workshop DEC 3 CFM Leader’s Christmas Dinner 11-Worldwide Missions Night 31- New Year’s Eve Service
Join us each Monday Night at 7 PM for our weekly Bible Study MONDAY NIGHT MANNA “Where the Word of God is taught line upon line, precept upon precept; because that‟s the way doctrine is taught, error is corrected and the people of God are positioned for….MANIFESTATION”
Watch our LIVE Broadcast ! Live Steaming Video Internet Broadcast Sunday Morning 9:00AM - 2:00PM (EST.) Monday Nights 7:00PM - 9:45PM (EST.) http://www.ustream.tv/channel/the-manifesting-sons-broadcast
The Word Network Tues 5:30 pm EST / Tues 4:30 pm CST / Tues 3:30 pm MST / Tues 2:30 pm PST Blast TV Internet Television Available to watch at all times. http://www.blast-tvstations.com/Jones.html
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Ascension Gifts Dr. John Garcia, Legacy Church
There are many gifts, which have been bestowed upon the Church. In the New Testament alone we have at least 3-categories of gifts. We have the gifts in Romans 6 as those given by the Father, the Gifts of the Spirit as they are commonly known in Corinthians, and the Ascension Gifts as the ones Jesus gave his Church. The Ascension Gifts have been given by Christ to facilitate bringing the Church into maturity. In Ephesians it states these gifts were distributed as an inheritance at Christ‟s ascension. This is probably one of the most elementary, yet paramount truths regarding these unique gifts. The truth I‟m referring to is simply this, as promotion came to Christ, he in turn blessed the lesser, us. This should unveil a cornerstone for apostolic ministry. As promotion comes to us we must be releasing a wake of gifts that causes those in our sphere of influence to be empowered and released. In other words, bringing them into realms of dominion far outside their ability to produce.
would serve the Body as “giver-functions”. Bring Christ‟s Body into maturity & oneness. In spite of some of the immature representations of these magnificent 5-Ascension Gifts, Christ has the master blueprint and he is acutely aware of the resources needed to bring all of us into our full measure.
set of gifts to work with similitude of authority & dominion. The churches we oversee should be altering regions by way of this round-table of Gifts. This is one of the primary indicators of our apostleship. That we work together with other Gifts and apostles. Many have used the apostolic gift to amass people unto themselves rather than transform regions. However, any other model that is Indulge me for the next few minutes and dream with me as we catch glimpses of what not intended to work collaboratively and to wonderfully change a region is drastically we are about to be entrusted with as the 21removed from the heart of Jesus. The aposCentury Church. After we‟ve detached the tolic is always seeking and never afraid to superfluities from our contemporary aposventure into new geographic, creative, revetolic representatives, the apostleship would lational, cerebral or theological landscapes. look more like this; apostles “kingdomize” territories, prophets awaken destiny, evangel- Why cerebral and theological you may ask. ists convince the masses, while pastors lead The apostolic opens up the realm of wonder. Not only do apostles release wonderful signs, the masses to green pastors and teachers but also they lead us to the place where we make sure our spiritual/natural diet is healthy! They were intended to be more of a are left with more questions. When we observe denominationalism, for the most part, round-table as opposed to a hierarchy that they cannot legitimize the apostolic because positions the apostles as the super power of the five. These Ephesians gifts represent the in many of those organizations they are trained not to incite outlooks or opinions that ministry of Jesus we find in Isaiah 9:6-7. These Ascension Gifts were not meant to be Apostles release wonder, Prophets the coun- could swing the status quo. On the contrary, in this divine apostolic roundtable model, we a pretext for ego-centered, narcissistic vessel, Evangelist the might of God, Pastors gather around covenanted relationships as sels; leaders who simply seek to obtain offer- God‟s Fathering heart and Teachers the ings and honor. Although honor and offerpeace that passes understanding and, in this opposed to mere theological agreement. The ings may be well deserved, these Ascension context, “of the increase of His Government oneness Christ prayed we would have will Gifts were given with intentionality; that they there will be no end.” Jesus intended for this not come because we have all adjusted to one CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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another‟s limited theological perspectives; it will reveal itself through us when we have all synchronized to this Wonder-Filled God!
spiritual hard drive corrupted and they remain untainted. Many of these untainted ones are not visible to the naked eye because they remain in a clandestine wilderness as the Spirit grooms them. In instances, more common than If then, we are genuine apostolic leaders according to 2 Corinthians 11:7-11 which char- not, by the other Ascension Gifts. Soon they acterizes them by humility, truth and love, we will be unveiled and will be a masterpiece to will desire to remain true to sound doctrine as behold. Others wait with restricted notoriety, students of the Spirit and not as stale theologi- being tested with little. This is the “Mammon Test”. A test we must all pass lest we meet the ans who have an allegiance to a particular fate of Balaam the Prophet or Judas Iscariot. dogma. The banner under which we must all There is no need to panic, however! Christ has remain is clearly stated in Proverbs 4:7, Wisset aside a vestige of virginal leaders who redom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understand- fuse to lay with ego, riches, clout or any other ing. In other words, theology without progres- pubescent enticement. Finally, we have those who have been tried, sifted and found worthy sive revelation will not be a place where we camp-out. On the other hand, revelational un- of both title and function. We implore you derstanding that does not mobilize the Body to with all humility, do not hesitate to teach us works that bring glory to God, will equally not from your mosaic of successes and failures. Many of us are patiently looking for and desirbe a place to camp-out. ing your transparency. Fellow apostles, although we may feel like the lanky teenager We are living in a in a generation with many, with long arms, big feet and braces, we must many Ascension Gifts who have not had their not circumvent this developmental process.
It should not be replaced with the Spirit‟s giftset found in Corinthians or be replaced the task of temple responsibilities. Those who choose to wield power without the relational developmental process, risk being rejected at the throne for being a worker of iniquity. When presenting the ministry of apostleship instruct the Body "with great patience and careful instruction" (2 Timothy 4:2). Live powerfully, humbly and outrageously courageous even if nobody ever sees your name on a marquee. The purpose you were given as a Gift is to kingdomize regions, empower and release. I entreat you, leave a legacy for those you love and have been called to. Bring the Body of Christ into mature oneness.
Did you miss FBCM Convocation 2011 this year? Copies of each night are available by visiting www.centerformanifestation.com.
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Soli Deo Gloria International, Inc. New Hearts Outreach P.O. Box 152543 Tampa, FL 33684 28