CONTENTS
MARCH EDITOR in CHIEF Bianca Thomas
04. 06.
Why Women Ablaze 09. Temptest
SENIOR EDITOR Rosey Slocum
(Featured story Photos) (Battle of the Band winners)
The Power of Praise
We are Changing Lives!
Co EDITOR In CHIEF/weShine Terry Briggs
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT Rosey Slocum~covers
Bianca’s Corner
Sandy Anderson
20.
The Power of Worship By Rick Ezell
Tek Me PikCha (2014 National Youth Covention ~Jamaica)
COVER DESIGN James Ramseur MARCH CONTRIBUTORS Demetric Phillips/weShine Marcell Whyce/ weShine Kimberly Osborn Theresa Gee Daughters of Destiny United Samantha Meade Sandy Anderson
Playin Church
16.
ART & LAY OUT March~Bianca Thomas
27.
By Theresa Gee
Battle of The Bands Shinning Contestants
19.
Praise Report
Look what the Lord has done!
24. Lady Wisdom Calls Out Proverbs 8
Sited RESOURCES USED The Power of Worship by Rick Kezell http://www.lifeway.com/Article/ sermon-power-of-worship-psalm40-john-12 BLOG wesparklemag.wordpress.com E-MAIL info@wesparklemagazine.com
Page 26
08. Praise the Lord By Samantha Meade
2 | MAR 2014 No.06
14. Battle of The Bands Sparkling contestants
2014 Battle of The Bands WINNERS
CONTENTS
10.
Daughter’s of Destiny United
18. N 2 ME C By Kimberly Osborn
23. Praise and Worship By Terry Briggs
28. Worship Is By Demetric Phillips
No.06 | MAR 2014
3
BIANCA’S CORNER
Here We Go ! orship and Praising GOD is my favorite subject, Why? because it is the only thing that I have discovered that keeps the Devil at bay in my life, which is why I have joy in my heart and I can keep a smile on my face 95% of the time.
W
Psalm 8:2 From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.
Psalm 22:3 But you are holy, O you that inhabit the praises of Israel I believe in my heart, God gave us Praise as a weapon to defeat the devil spiritual attacts against us. When we praise God, It stops the attacks of the devil, dethrones the oppositional forces sent by the enemy of our souls and creates an atmospher where we can find relief and joy. Because I make this a habit to vocally do this daily, I am never emotionally on a rollercoaster.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes I just have to stop what I’m doing and get Radical with my praise and have a party all If you are around me for a day, you will hear by myself. me constantly saying, “THANK YOU JESUS” He is the air I Well, as you know not only are we talking breathe, my life line, my rejuvenation and about praise and worship in this issue, but strength, it is also the devils reminder, Who we are celebrating the talented winners I am depending on throughout the day “The Battle of The Bands “Daughter’s of when I’m feeling overwhelmed. Destiny United” we would like to congratulate all the Sparkling contestants JESUS, oh how I love that name, It is who took the time to enter, THE BEST IS because of that name literally, I am still YET TO COME. breathing and can face tomorrow. I hope you will enjoy this issue as much as It is that name, JESUS that delivered me I have preparing it for you and If you are in from depression and from commiting need of peace and joy in your life right, Call suicide, It is because I called on that on the name that give me constant peace, POWERFUL name of JESUS that I am still JESUS for He IS the prince of PEACE. standing clothed in my right mind after years of being secretly tormented mentally Jeremiah 3:33 Call unto me, and I will by demonic forces. JESUS, the name above answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty all names and at that name every knee shall things, which thou knowest not. bow and every tongue shall confess that HE is LORD in Heaven and on earth. Isaiah 26:3 Thoughout the day I consciously practiced the presence of God through my worshiping Him and praying in the Holy Spirit, It keeps me mindful that I am His temple, His representative on this earth, chosen to be an Influencer and Ark bearer of His presence and power. I am God’s personal Cheerleader and LOUDLY, I love to praise His name, YESSSSSSSSSSSSSS I do and I’m always looking to build my cheering squad. 4
No.06 | MAR 2014
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Romans 10:13 For everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking Him as Lord] will be saved Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good! Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts and takes refuge in Him
NOW ARISE, GO IN PEACE PRAISING THE LORD!
Bianca Thomas
weSPARKLE & weSHINE STAFF
It Takes Team Work to Make The Dream Work No.06 | MAR 2014
5
WOMEN ABLAZE INTL. MINISTRIES
Why Women Ablaze ?
Bianca is a Life Coach, Speaker, the visionary and founder of, B-Beautiful You , Love Encounter Intensive Workshops as well as a mother to 4 sons, Abuela to 3 grandsons and the proud wife of her knight, Grover Thomas.
Women Ablaze International Ministries
Changing Lives, Restoring Hope and Healing
T
he needs women face today are great. Many struggle with relationships, overwhelmed with the demands of life, health and weight issues, singleness, child rearing or abuse. Others are simply tired of hurting from past situations. Women walk into our churches looking for hope and many walk out with needs still unmet.
We believe women can serve and minister to one another, revealing God’s unconditional love. Women understand one another; the compassion offered in a relationship is a catalyst for healing and restoration.
We Believe every woman need to know and understand that they are lavishly loved by God, they are beautiful, they are powerful, God has destined them for greatness and as Christian women God has placed within us a blazing fire that is able to consume the darkness in the lives of others. Personal fulfillment and purpose is discovered as we mentor and ministering to one another, extending Gods presence, taking time for conversation and revealing God’s love by example. As a network of Women serving Women, Women Ablaze International Ministry is committed to create a Network of Sisterhood, by networking globally with businesses, non-profit organizations and local leaders to provide effective resources to 6
No.06| MAR 2014
equip every woman to positively influence others in her life. Through social network and our magazine, we share inspirational stories, video interviews, products and teaching materials to assist women in living a healthy and successful life.
We will recommend to those that inquire, local churches, workshops and resources that will continually assist them to live a successful, Spiritual, Physical, Emotional and Financial productive family life.
We will help local churches understand the needs of women and provide strategies for establishing meaningful ministry to women. There is strength in numbers, therefore, We believe as a strong network of women, we can encourage, support and build up the self esteem of others as we give hope and healing to the hearts of many. Our goal is to change lives and destinies by providing friendship and a listening ear to the hurting hearts and the unheard voices.
We believe God has given us a great opportunity to Expose women to the Love and the Greatness of God through our life worship and service. We pray that you sense the call to network and partner with us, empowering women to effectively minister to others, creating healthier relationships, families, churches, and communities.
ADVERTISEMENT
Southpark Regal Theater 300 Southpark Circle Colonial Heights, VA. 23834
SERVICE TIMES: 8:45am Sundays / 8:30am breakfast 11:00am Sundays / 10:45am breakfast
Destination Theater
Crossings Shopping Center 5246 Oaklawn Blvd. Hopewell, VA. 23860 10:00am Sundays / 9:45am breakfast 5:00pm Sundays / snacks & drinks Destination’s doors are open to people from all backgrounds, regardless of who they are and where they are on their spiritual journey. If you’re new to Destination, we hope you’ll find a place where you are warmly welcomed and feel at home, even if you’ve never been to church before To learn more about our ministry, please visit, www.destinationwired.com
No.06 | MAR 2014
7
INSPIRATIONAL WRITINGS Samantha is a Christian author, poet and native of Virginia. She enjoys studying the word of God and translating it into poetry for the purpose of encouraging and edifying the body of Christ. **�Pressing Toward the Mark, a poetic journey with Jesus Christ� ISBN# 1-59781-286-2
www.amazon.com
Samantha P. Meade Author
PRAISE THE LORD I will praise the Lord according to His righteousness and will sing praises to the name of the Lord Most High My soul waits for the Lord; He is my Help and Shield and any danger that is intended for me cannot come nigh I will praise the name of God with a song and will magnify Him with thanksgiving I will bless the Lord at all times, and His praises shall flow from me as waters that are living It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord; to show His loving-kindness in the morning and faithfulness at night Let our praises be a sweet-smelling savor to His nostrils and may they be pleasing and acceptable in His sight O come let us sing unto the Lord our God; let us make a joyful noise unto the Rock of our salvation For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised from everything that lives as a result of His creation I will bless the Lord from this time forth and sing praises to my God as long as I have my being His praises shall continually be in my heart and mouth; bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty I will worship the Lord in spirit and in truth and my voice will continually glorify Thee Let the redeemed of the Lord say so; giving thanks to Him and singing praises on one accord O magnify the Lord with me; exalting His name together and let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Samantha P. Meade
8
No.06| MAR 2014
INSPIRATIONAL WRITINGS Sandy lives near Richmond, Virginia. She has been happily married to her husband, Lee for 30 plus years. They have two grown daughters, Lachelle and Janelle. http://hopeandlightforthejourney.blogspot.com Sandy Anderson
Who layeth the beams of His chambers in the waters; Who maketh the clouds His chariot; Who walketh upon the wings of the wind...” Psalm 104:3
devastating storm there are usually WONDERFUL opportunities to reach out and support those who are being devastated by weather storms “As we in Virginia listen to various AND those who have been ravweather reporting agencies to get a aged by the storms of this life. It better understand of the next new is in reaching out our hand of love storm that may be assaulting us, I and friendship that we are most came across this quote by Willa clearly the children of our Father. Cather who said “There are some The Body of Christ actively caring things you learn best in calm and for those in the midst of storms some in storm.” (be they natural, And I wondered what lessons lie emotional, financial or spiritual) is before us not only with this season’s one of the clearest and most storms but also in the wide-ranging compelling arguments for our storms of this life. Because we reason for being; to LOVE others experience various types of storms into the kingdom of God! here in this part of the country, many 2. You are not alone in the storm. wisely take the Boy Scouts motto of The tempests come and fear can “Be Prepared” to heart and have grip our hearts because the storm everything they need at their is volatile and unpredictable. The fingertips. But sometimes “life enemy of our souls may whisper to happens” through unrelenting our anxious hearts that we are squalls that come in entirely staggering alone beneath the wind unannounced and take our hearts by and waves of any particular storm storm. But whether they are much and the feelings of isolation can expected or catch us completely drive us to despair. But we can take off-guard, I believe that there are at heart for the One who gave us least three lessons that we can learn existence is also the One who from forecasted storms and the ones promised to never leave us, that ins that sneak up behind us. tead, whenever we need Him He 1. Everyone experiences the storm. assures us that He will come! In Sometimes the most difficult part John 14:18 Jesus assures us “I will of a storm is the feeling that we are not leave you comfortless: I will weathering the brunt of it by come to you.” and Paul relates “... ourselves and that we alone are God has said, ‘Never will I leave suffering the raging winds and the you; never will I forsake you.” assaulting rains. But the truth is Hebrews 13:5 In fact in the original many are language He uses a triple negative to experiencing the ill effects of each emphasize the point. In essence He and every gale that crosses the says “I will not, I will not, I will not horizon because the truth is no one leave you”. gets a pass for a storm-free life, Now that’s not to say that all will be because everyone includes...well, “peaches and roses” for our entire everyone. Jesus explicitly declared life because we talked about that in in John 16:33 that “Here on earth the first point; but it does mean that you will have many trials and whatever storms come our way and sorrows.” NLT He doesn’t say that whatever ill effects do befall us... we might, He didn’t hint that we never, never, never are we left to may possibly; He declares face them alone. He WILL come to unequivocally “you will have many us! trials and sorrows”...no one escapes Think about it dear ones...what kind it! Thankfully though, Jesus didn’t of father ignores the frightened pleas just leave us with that thought; He of his children? Even a decent goes on to say “But be of good cheer earthly father will take pity on his for I have overcome the world.” So children when they cry out in fear although we each can be and our heavenly Father is the best confident that we will all face our Papa; so our cries will always reach share of storms, in Him there is His listening ears and they will ultimate victory! never fail to touch His loving heart. Note: In the aftermath of every No, He will not leave us, ever.
3. There is a place of calm in every storm. No matter the strength or size of a hurricane, there is always an area where the storm is not raging and the winds lie dormant. It is a position where the tempest has ceased and is untouched by the power and devastation of the storm. In the eye of the storm there is a space of quiet where all that abide there remain unscathed. And Papa promises that no matter the volume of the storm, no matter its magnitude; we can always hide under the shadow of His massive wings while the storm rages all around us. There is a place where we may abide in sustenance and safety and we will find that as the winds whirl around us, as the relentless rains pelt us unmercifully, that that place, that that blessed location is in His pervasive and holy presence. Oh that we would praise Him for there is no storm so dark that the Light of the World cannot bring a dawn! Oh that we would worship Him for there is no gale so potent that the Omnipotent One cannot silence it! Oh that we would choose to trust the heart of the One who loves us best, because there is no tempest so prevailing that the Creator of both the winds and the waves cannot calm them...and us. Come oh Lord for in Psalm 104:3 Your Word proclaims You as the storm walker and in You we find shelter now and forever! “Who layeth the beams of His chambers in the waters; Who maketh the clouds His chariot; Who walketh upon the wings of the wind...” Psalm 104:3
Papa, Come and hold us, remind us that we are not alone in the storms that this life will bring. Help us to rely on You, to trust in Your strong and yet tender care for us. Help us to hear You calling us to come swiftly that we might dwell under the shadow of Your expansive wings. Help us to find that place of calm and safety and to abide there knowing that in Your presence we are loved and cared for. Help us to trust You dear Papa no matter what lies ahead; for in You we are safe and secure...today and for all eternity! In Jesus Name, Amen No.06 | MAR 2014
9
FEATURED STORY
Daughter’s of Destiny United
FIRST PLACE WINNERS 10
No.06 | MAR 2014
FEATURED STORY
D
aughters of Destiny United (D.D.U) are an independent female contemporary gospel group from Petersburg, VA.
We are two sisters in Christ who have our own separate stories to tell yet, they are similar in so many ways. Maria Chevelle and Meca Marie are two daughters of Gods Kingdom who are excited to spread the message of no matter what life may take you through, you are” Unbreakable by Man, and Destined by God”.
Chevelle’s life and the obstacles God has helped her overcome. Meca Marie has her own ordinate destiny, which is to mentor at risk youth through her organization, Tri Cities Angels LLC. Her mission and vision is to mentor youth with getting on the right track and not making mistakes that can affect them for a lifetime. This organization was founded based on Meca Marie’s life and tribulations as a child and teen. Together these ladies form Daughters of Destiny United.
The duo decided to unite for the purpose of the official soundtrack to The Destiny Series by Maria Chevelle. The Destiny Series is a three books series that are written for the purpose of healing and forgiveness for young girls and woman everywhere. The Series highlights Maria
Their first single, “Unbreakable” will drop April 2014, with a full soundtrack to follow. Separate these ladies are a force. United together they are a movement for Gods Kingdom to spread the message of healing and forgiveness.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
No.06 | MAR 2014
11
FEATURED STORY
Maria Chevelle
W
HO IS.........Maria Chevelle? Maria Chevelle Partin Williams, is a native of Petersburg, VA and the proud mother to Amya.
In November 2005, Maria Chevelle relocated to Fayetteville by way of the Military. At the age of twenty- three, Maria realized that she wanted to pursue her passion in mentoring young adolescent girls. February 12, 2007, She founded, The Butterfly Academy, a non-profit organization for young females ages 10-21. This includes two on-line programs called: G.I.R.L.S (Gifted. Intelligent. Respected. Leaders. of Success) and a prevention program for young ladies ages 10-17 Presently, known as the Butterfly Academy . Maria also start a LLC in 2011 called, Chevelle & Co., LLC Maria is a Motivational Speaker, a mentor and the author of “Unbreakable Destiny and the Destiny Series”. Because the “Unbreakable Destiny” books are a reflection of her life, she decided to share her testimony to help others who need healing and restoration in their lives. God has also lead Maria to write music to a soundtrack for the Destiny series. In 2013, She teamed up with local mentor and friend, Meca Maria, on this God ordinated mission. Maria quotes, “To be able to reach others through my books and music is such a great blessing” 12
No.06 | MAR 2014
FEATURED STORY
Meca Marie
W
HO IS .........Meca Marie? I am 33yrs old Christian woman from Petersburg VA.
At the age of 16, I gave my life to Christ and was baptized by Pastor Johnson, at Star of Hope Bible Way Christian Center, located in Dinwiddie, VA. I am also the very proud owner of Tri Cities Angels Mentoring program, founder of Black Girls Rockin VA and a member of D.D.U Daughters Of Destiny United. I grew up feeling depressed lonely and unloved and during that time, I didn’t understand why I had to go through certain situations, but now I know that God was preparing me for a special mission. The mission that God wants me to do, is to minister to young children and adults, helping them understand that life will sometimes get hard but as long as they have Jesus in their life, it will be well worth all the struggles in the end.
No.06 | MAR 2014
13
CONTESTANTS WE LIKE TO CONGRATULATE OUR 2014 CONTESTANTS, YOU ARE ALL
SPARKLI NG STARS
D
awn Martin,
resides in beautiful Kingston Jamaica and is a Renowned Recording Artist who has an inimitable style, an extraordinary vocal ability, and an anointing that shifts atmospheres. Her music and ministry is simply life-changing.
L
oretta Williams Gurnell, SuperLady is a
soul-stirring inspirational recording artist, speaker, lyricist and actor. Her refreshing sound and heart-wrenching lyrics soothe the soul while invigorating her audience with engaging stage presence. The Ohio native is reaping the benefits of living a life full of grace and mercy before Christ. Affectionately known as ‘the voice of inspiration’, Loretta’s newest single, “SuperLady” embraces, uplifts and causes you to DANCE in style!
S
hatina “22” Davis is one half of a brother
To receive more Information on how to contact contestants for bookings, send inquiries to info@wesparklemagazine.com
14
No.06 | MAR 2014
and sister rap duo called Star 22. 22 was born and raised in the south side of Richmond, VA but currently resides in the Hampton Roads area. She has ministered at juvenile prisons, community day events and various church events. She is married to Minister Jason L.
“Start your lifetime of memories TODAY”
ADVERTISEMENT
Vision of Rose Photography’s mission is to help you see your true beauty. Give yourself a day of pampering. Makeup, hair, sexy outfits with me, capturing YOU on my camera. Schedule a glamour, boudoir or pin-up session and let that inner minx come out to play for a bit. I am trained in posing all body types and I promise to deliver high quality service that will keep you & your partner satisfied.
Glamour Portraits ,Boudoir Portraits Pinup Portraits, Newborn Portraits Family and Lifestyle Portraits Weddings Phone (804) 490-3213 Email: roseyslocum@visionofrosephotography.com
Website:http://www.visionofrosephotography.com
TUTUS FOR All tutus are HANDMADE with a COMFORTABLE stretchy crochet waist band that gives your little girl room to grow and double layered to make sure they are extra full. CUSTOMIZED allowing the customer to choose what size/color(s) they would like. Phone: (804) 591-6052 ~ Email: tutusforallboutique@gmail.com ~ Website: http://www.tutusforall.com
No.06| MAR 2014
15
INSPIRATIONAL
The Pen and the Sword “Playin’ Church”
N
o way. I don’t do it. Perhaps at one time I
ago.
used to do it, but I don’t do it anymore. I gave that up a long time
What am I talking about? Well, Playing Church, of course!
“do a step”. While others may just stand still and moan or cry. When these Saints danced in church, it seemed they were communicating with God on a level that was so intimate with Him. I wanted some of that so I tried it, too.
I called it my “morning exercises”. I I suppose there are many ways to “play thought the people were doing calisthenics. church”, but let me tell you how I used to do (Don’t judge, I was a kid and I didn’t know it. any better.) When I was a little girl and an early teenager I used to see people “dancing” in church. DANCING! You know, like when we used to go out of Friday or Saturday night. The steps I used to see people doing in church, however, were different. There was a certain rhythm to them. Some people would jump up and down. Some would 16
No.06 | MAR 2014
Now, I am not meaning to imply that I don’t praise and worship anymore. I do. But the jumping and shouting…I don’t. Unless… Unless the Spirit is really moving and I am moving under His control. Let me tell you when I stopped “playin’ church”.
INSPIRATIONAL
Theresa Gee, is one of our Celebrity Inspirational Writers. She is also a speaker, minister and actress. She can be contacted for bookings at, mssg823@aol.com
that is.
CONTINUED
G
uess what? He picked me out. ME!
He told me what “thus says the Lord”. Then, to my horror, he told me to “jump and shout and give God the praise.” WHAT ?!?
Now I don’t want to imply that I don’t praise and worship the Lord anymore. I do. I am also not trying to say that dancing in the spirit is not genuine. It is. What I am saying is merely this: We must be genuine in our praise. A movement of the Holy Spirit is to be reverenced and it is nothing to play with. It is to be earnest, sincere. This movement can cause us to react in different ways: some will dance; some will run or jump and shout. Whatever you do make sure it is earnest and you are not “playin”.
Well people, I didn’t want to seem disobedient or disrespectful, but I hadn’t “danced” in church since I was a teen. What am I going to do? I wondered. Well, I did what he told me to do: I started jumping. Yes, I began jumping and all was going well until… Until my right foot got caught under the church pew and I fell down just as fast as I was going up! It was as if I had just been yanked back into my seat. How embarrassing! What did I do then? I did what anyone else would do, I TRIED TO PLAY IT OFF. I raised my hands and arms and kept PRETENDING to be praising God. I kept it up until I thought anyone who was watching would think the Spirit had just worn off of me. See, that’s what happens when you’re Playin’ Church. The Lord will embarrass you. He will put you in your place, literally.
The Bible says in I Corinthians 13:11, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” That sums it up for me, too. When I was younger and did my “exercises” in church, I didn’t know any better. But as a grown-up, I know not to do anything the Spirit is not prompting me to do. Yes, I believe in dancing and singing and praising just as much as I ever did. But now if you see me jumpin’ and shoutin’ and dancin’ in church, you will know I am under HIS control, not my own.
I have never done that again. Playing church,
Theresa Gee
Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. Psalm 149:3
No.06 | MAR 2014
17
INSPIRATIONAL Kimberly is the wife of Bill Osborn and a mother of two beautiful daughters, Haley and Heather. Kim is also a member of “The Dwelling Place” in Richmond Virginia, where she and her husband both serve as Worship Directors
N 2 ME C “One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.” Ps. 27:4, NIV
in the Secret Place. The key is intimacy. The best definition I have ever heard for this word is “Lord, into me see.”
T
Let Him look into your eyes…..let Him hat is my desire. He is the One that search your heart. He loves you so much. ravages my heart. How do we get to You haven’t gone too far. He is wooing that place, where we can get close to you, to meet with Him, in that special Him? It’s found in the place, just for Secret Place. you and God. The Secret Place: a Beware of the place where God little foxes that reveals His heart and spoil the vine. He reveals what’s in The little foxes ours. He shares His are the secrets with us. That irritations or is where you find your arguments that identity. try to keep you from the Secret The secret place can be Place. That’s anywhere: the shower, where you get your car, your kitchen. your strength. I have a special That’s where you chair that I call my “Prayer Chair.” are changed. He loves your voice. There is only one “you.” You are the only one I love to sit there and turn on IHOP.org’s that can give “your” sound of praise to prayer room and just soak in the the Lord. atmosphere of worship; to re-charge my batteries. I will leave you with a quote from one of my favorite worship songs: “O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, In the secret places of the cliff, “So pull me a little closer, take me a Let me see your face, little deeper. I want to know Your heart. Let me hear your voice; Cause Your love is so much sweeter, than For your voice is sweet, anything I’ve tasted. I want to know Your And your face is lovely.” heart.” The passage is Song of Solomon 2:14. The date that I’m writing this, is 2/14, Valentine’s Day. Isn’t God the Coolest? O how He longs to spend time with you,
18
No.06 | MAR 2014
Ssssshhh……Listen …….do You hear Him? He’s whispering, He’s calling you……to the secret place. Kimberly Osborn
PRAISE REPORT
MARCH 2, 2014
weSPARKLE magazine’s senior editor, Rosey Slocum, her husband Zeryk along with 0VER 100 SOULS TOOK A BOLD STAND FOR JESUS!
FEBRUARY 22, 2014
Jonathan Thompson and Melissa Scott were MARRIED!
I was so honored to be apart of this prophetic wedding at Cloverhill Assembly of God, where two awesome people were Divinely connected by the hand of God. Just think, God used a selfie posted on Facebook and anointed woman of God name Jane Briggs, to bring these two together at the right appointed time. I am so thankful to have been given the privileged to celebrate with them and their family on that great day! weSPARKLE magazine, CONGRATULATE, MR. AND MRS. THOMPSON ,Savannah and Will on their family union.
MARCH 5, 2014
(PHOTOS BY Tek Me PikCha)
Pastor Bryan, along with Destination’s worship team , Ricardo Edwards and Joseph Yosef Roach of Love 101 FM Jamaica, had the awesome privilege to minister to over 2000 young men and women at the Youth Convention 2014 (The Assemblies of God in Jamaica)
If you would like to be apart of the next mission team, Email INFO@DESTINATIONATIONWIRED.COM
No.06 | MAR 2014
19
DEVOTIONAL
Psalm 40, John 12 I hope you enjoy this devotion written by Rick Ezell as much as I have. ~ Bianca
Worship is celebration - a celebration to be experienced and a celebration to be shared. This message reminds the hearer of the power of worship to an unbelieving world.
O
n a vacation my family and I visited Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone is a geological hotbed with hundreds of geysers and hot springs. One of our first stops in the scenic wilderness was the geyser known affectionately as Old Faithful. Old Faithful is the most visited of all the geysers for a simple reason: It is faithful. It is not the tallest geyser or the most beautiful, but it is faithful. Presently, one can count on Old Faithful erupting every eighty minutes. On the day we went to Yellowstone, we arrived with about seventy-eight minutes to spare. The National Park Service has built a boardwalk that encircles the old geyser with benches around one side. (You can stand on the other side, but when the geyser erupts you will get a shower.) The historic hotels and quaint shops fan out from the geyser. No doubt about it, Old Faithful is the center of attention. As the time for the eruption got closer, more and more tourists joined our family, setting on the benches or on the boardwalk. Latecomers stood behind. Many had their cameras - video and still - trained like weapons on the famous hole in the ground. From the steam rising from the opening in the earth, first there was a sputtering of water. “There she goes,” exclaimed one observer who thought he was in the know. But the sputtering ceased and I refrained from any more comments. A moment later came the sputtering again, turning into a fountain of hot water streaming toward the heavens a hundred feet high. Everyone looked up. Jaws dropping. Eyes popping. The sense of wonder filled everyone encircling Old Faithful as the geyser
20
No.06 | MAR 2014
sent cascading waters up and up. The crowd was spellbound, awe-filled, as the dancing water performed its magic for a minute and then quietly returned to earth. Its water supply depleted, but in another eighty minutes its subterranean plumbing would be filled again ready to burst forth toward the sky. And other onlookers would witness its majesty. I noticed something that day. Onlookers displayed a sense of awe, a worship-like quality. They had witnessed something powerful, something from beyond themselves. One Dad said to his kids, “Did you see that? Amazing, wasn’t it?” A little boy replied to his sister, “I can’t wait to tell Johnny when we get back home.” Another shouted, “Hey, Grandpa, did you see that?” Still another said, “Can we watch it again?” With a sense of reverence people returned to their cars or the gift shop knowing they had witnessed something spectacular. The same dynamic occurs when we come to worship God. Or, must I say, should happen. We ought to witness the spectacular hand of God. We are supposed to witness something beyond ourselves. We are to be in awe, spellbound, mesmerized by the life-giving, life-flowing, power of God. We should be motivated to tell others about what we have experienced. What Old Faithful does for the tourist in Yellowstone, our worship of God should do for those who worship God in church. David wrote, “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD” (Psa. 40:3), or, as the New Century Version translates “will see this and worship him.”
Rick Ezell is the pastor of First Baptist Greer, South Carolina. Rick has earned a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Theology in preaching from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Rick is a consultant, conference leader, communicator, and coach. You can download this devotion free at http://www.lifeway.com/Article/sermon-power-of-worship-psalm-40-john-12
Continued
I. The two elements of worship From this verse we see two profound elements of worship: celebration and proclamation. A. Celebration: The vertical dimension David had an experience with the Lord. God had rescued him and refreshed him. David had experienced the presence of God. He was changed. And, he couldn’t be silent about it. He sung praise to God “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God” (Psa. 40:3). David was exuberant in song and praise. He was excited. He could not contain his joy, his happiness, his relief. He had to shout and sing. All of the Psalms were designed to be sung. Singing is an important spiritual expression. Singing is mentioned explicitly some 68 times in the Psalms. No wonder Longfellow called the human voice “the organ of the soul!” And it wasn’t just any song that David sang. It was a new song. There was a freshness and newness to his experience with God. It was as though he were seeing God again for the first time. It was like, as I have been told, seeing Old Faithful erupt never grows old. Each time one is amazed and entranced. Each person wants to see it again and again. Furthermore, his singing was praiseful - it was worship. David was expressing a song of gratitude to God for who he is, what he said, and what he was doing. For David knew that the source of his good fortune was none other than God himself. B. Proclamation: The horizontal dimension Just as there is a vertical dimension to worship, there is, also, a horizontal dimension. David said, “Many will see (that is, know God’s presence) and fear (or revere and be awed by him) and put their trust (or find security) in the LORD in the Lord” (Psa. 40:3). As David praised God many saw it. The did not merely hear his praise, they saw him praising. And, in turn the same security that David found in God, they, too would find that security and join David in worship. David’s joy before the Lord was his witness. We don’t worship just at church, because worship ought to be the constant attitude and activity of our lives as dedicated believers. At church we worship publicly and corporately. And, when the church
gathers to worship, it also gathers to witness. Worship always includes witness. When people far from God hear those people close to God giving heartfelt praise to God - when they see heartfelt worship - they are intrigued. It’s like wanting to see Old Faithful. There is a mystery, a wonder, a marvel. Questions are asked: How does that happen? Why does that happen? Sparks from the fire of our worship ignites dry hearts causing them to sing a new song and seek to praise God. II. The two products of worship What can we learn from Psalm 40:3? Throughout the Bible there is a close, vibrant relationship between worship and witness. It is reflected in two ways: People far from God are drawn to Christ through worship and people close to God are compelled to share Christ after worship. It can be diagramed in the following manner: → worship → A. Spiritually lost people are drawn to Christ through worship This is reflected in the above diagram by the arrow on the left side of worship. Worship attracts, like a magnet it draws people to Jesus. Paul told the Corinthian church to worship in such a clear way that if an unbeliever entered, “He is convicted by all and is judged by all. The secrets of his heart will be revealed, and as a result he will fall facedown and worship God, proclaiming, ‘God is really among you’” (1 Cor. 14:24-25). Jesus stated, “As for Me, if I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all people to Myself ” (John 12:32). While his words predict his death, it still communicates volumes to us in our worship. When Jesus is lifted up in praise and worship, lost people are attracted to him. David cited the evangelistic attraction of honest worship. “I will praise You, Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations” (Psa. 57:9). When God’s people experience the presence of God, when they meet God, engaging the heart, lives are changed, and consequently, lost people are drawn into God’s presence as well. The unbeliever wants what the believer has. The world sits up and takes notice.
CONTINUE STORY ON PAGE
28
No.06 | MAR 2014
21
22
Hello again, my friends!
w
eSHINE Warriors, what a great spread do we have for you this month. I’m truly excited to share the intro on this seemingly forgotten weapon that has been made available to us for success in our spiritual and natural life. However, before we journey there, I’d like to congratulate all the winners of the “Battle of The Bands”, music competition as well as thank all the contestants that participated, know in my book, you are all SHINING STARS. Keep pushing and pursuing after your dreams. Remember, the Victory isn’t in beginning, it’s the completing and executing that counts. Stay encouraged and be absolutely relentless in the pursuit of capturing your dreams. Again congratulations!
N
ow, on the subject of praise and worship, a lot of us forget that when we are confronted with situations in our lives that are trying to bring discouragement, a defeated mentality, depressing, or we’re just in situations where we can’t figure out what to do, or where to go, that is the time when we need to gear up, put on our warfare clothes and engage in the fight for our breakthrough. Worship is a direct line to clarity in hearing Gods voice. It is through praise, worship and prayer that God begins to
speak to us in a way that connects directly to our spirit. During those moments when our hearts are turned towards GOD, our minds are fixed upon the Author and Finisher of our faith, dwelling in God’s Holy presence; we are revived, we receive His comforting peace in our mind, heart, and spirit as well as flooded with HIS faith. His faith and the peace that allows Us to realize that it’s time to move out of the way and let God do His thing. Let me say it like this, PRAISE is a key that unlocks the door to enter into God’s presence and Worship is the hallway to the treasure room. What is in the treasure room? The most intimate connection with God. In Proverbs 8 the word talks about how everything we need from God is essentially right there in his presence. In his presence is the wisdom we need for any situation or circumstance. It is through worship we meet the real-time voice of wisdom from God. It could be that one small word from God that changes everything around. In closing, don’t let life keep you so busy you’re not taking the time to worship. Again, for it is through worship that your dreams and desires will truly be realized. Enjoy this issue of WeShine. NOW, LET’S GET OUR PRAISE AND WORSHIP ON!! With love, Terry Briggs, Co-Editor in Chief
23
Lady Wisdom Calls Out Proverbs 8 (amplified)
My benefits are worth more than a big salary, even a very big salary; the returns on me exceed any imaginable bonus. 8 1-11 Do you hear Lady Wisdom calling? Can you hear Madame Insight raising her voice? You can find me on Righteous Road—that’s where I walk— at the intersection of Justice Avenue, She’s taken her stand at First and Main, at the Handing out life to those who love me, filling their busiest intersection. arms with life—armloads of life! Right in the city square where the traffic is 22-31 “GOD sovereignly made me—the first, the thickest, she shouts, basic—before he did anything else. “You—I’m talking to all of you,everyone out here I was brought into being a long time ago, well on the streets! before Earth got its start. Listen, you idiots—learn good sense! You I arrived on the scene before Ocean, yes, even blockheads—shape up! before Springs and Rivers and Lakes. Don’t miss a word of this—I’m telling you how to Before Mountains were sculpted and Hills took live well, I’m telling you how to live at your best. shape, I was already there, newborn; My mouth chews and savors and relishes truth— Long before GOD stretched out Earth’s I can’t stand the taste of evil! Horizons, and tended to the minute details of Soil You’ll only hear true and right words from my mouth; not one syllable will be twisted or skewed. and Weather, And set Sky firmly in place, I was there. You’ll recognize this as true—you with open When he mapped and gave borders to wild Ocean, minds; truth-ready minds will see it at once. built the vast vault of Heaven, Prefer my life-disciplines over chasing after and installed the fountains that fed Ocean, money, and God-knowledge over a lucrative When he drew a boundary for Sea, career. posted a sign that said NO TRESPASSING, And For Wisdom is better than all the trappings of wealth; nothing you could wish for holds a candle then staked out Earth’s Foundations, I was right there with him, making sure to her. everything fit. 12-21 “I am Lady Wisdom, and I live next to Day after day I was there, with my joyful applause, Sanity; Knowledge and Discretion live just down always enjoying his company, the street. Delighted with the world of things and creatures, The Fear-of-GOD means hating Evil, whose ways happily celebrating the human family. I hate with a passion— 32-36 “So, my dear friends, listen carefully; those pride and arrogance and crooked talk. who embrace these my ways are most blessed. Good counsel and common sense are my characteristics; I am both Insight and the Virtue to Mark a life of discipline and live wisely; don’t squander your precious life. live it out. Blessed the man, blessed the woman, who listens With my help, leaders rule, and lawmakers to me, awake and ready for me each morning, legislate fairly; With my help, governors govern, alert and responsive as I start my day’s work. along with all in legitimate authority. When you find me, you find life, real life, to say I love those who love me; those who look for me nothing of GOD’s good pleasure. find me. But if you wrong me, you damage your very soul; Wealth and Glory accompany me— also when you reject me, you’re flirting with death. substantial Honor and a Good Name.
Happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding [drawing it forth from God’s Word and life’s experiences 24
Amplified Bible Proverb 3:13
weShine Warriors No.03| March 2014
First Runner Up
MARCELL WYCHE 25
Arise! SHINE! , for your light has come, the glory of ADONAI has risen over you. For, behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the peoples; but Jehovah will arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. The ministry of M. Cornelius Wyche and Octave Praise was founded on September 28, 2002 by M. Cornelius Wyche himself. The newly established music ministry originally consisted of nineteen members, most of whom where music major at Virginia State University, Petersburg, Virginia. Other members where young singers from the tri-city area of Virginia. The motto of M. Cornelius Wyche and Octave Praise is to always be attentive to the spirit, to be careful to flow in the anointing, and to never underestimate the power of deliverance.
WHY I SING
T
o know God never fails is more than just a statement…. it is a guarantee that you can bank on over and over again!” That’s what I wake every morning knowing; realizing that only what God allows can happen. My journey has not been easy but it has definitely been fruitful; from traumatic events, to being physically abused, hidden anger, crushed reputation, colossal mistakes, identity crisis, low self-esteem and yes, even periods of suicide attempts….God was teaching me something and I became stronger as learned something, through every situation and obstacle I faced. I used the traumatic events along with the lessons learned and turned them into songs. With over 200 songs written, I sing in His honor and for His glory about, “How God Supply My Needs; giving Him authority to Reign Over My Life; knowing He will be with me Always as My Shelter In Time Of Storm”. …. He even blessed me with an anointed aggregation of singers to manifest that work of art. Octave Praise is my family away from family, my therapy, my counsel. This ministry is authentic and just loves to SING. I don’t tolerate foolishness and shun the very appearance of it, so to know that the true love for God and passion for gifts are being exemplified further, proves to me that 26
“HE JUST WON’T FAIL”… Nothing I’ve ever gone through has been in vain. “THANKS BE TO GOD”. My mother (Evangelist Joan Wyche) and my grandmother (Pastor Maria Mason), has always imparted in me that God makes no mistakes, so thank and praise Him regardless. They have always been my support team and never spared the rod. I use to question God as to why; I had to endure so much in my life, why diabetes, why the setbacks, why the spiritual warfare, why the mental breakdowns? But I was always quickly reminded that in and through it all, I STILL had my right mind to simply say, YET, I WILL TRUST YOU. I cherish so, the fact that “He just won’t leave me”.That’s why when I play, I play praising Him. That’s why when I sing, I sing honoring Him. When I teach and do workshops, I do it to continue spreading the goodness of who He is. I also teach every member of Octave Praise the same thing and we compliment each other musically so well, because we’re on one accord spiritually. FAMILY!
Marcell
WE LIKE TO CONGRATULATE OUR 2014 CONTESTANTS, YOU ARE ALL
Shinning STARS The Virginia State University Gospel Chorale is comprised of approximately 100 members from different geographical locations, denominations, and nationalities. Known for their vocal arrangements, skillful choreography and eye-catching attire, the Chorale is unlike any other college or church choir. The Chorale performs extensively throughout Virginia, as well as other states. The choir performed at the DC Interfaith Food Drive, part of President Obama’s National Day of Service and part of his official 2012 inauguration events. It was named People’s Choice in the 2012 How Sweet the Sound Competition (DC Region). Last summer, the choir took the country by storm as they advanced to the quarterfinals on Season 8 of “America’s Got Talent.” They also conducted a month-long European tour in December, performing in Italy, Romania, Switzerland, and Hungary. During the tour, they performed at the Pope’s Annual Vatican Christmas Concert. The Virginia State University Gospel Chorale is available for church services, revivals, school performances, fundraisers, weddings, funerals, birthday celebrations, and musical recordings. For general information and booking requirements, please send an email with performance request details to vsugospelchorale@gmail.com. Additionally, like us on Facebook at The Virginia State University Gospel Chorale and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @vsugc. COREYGoss hails from Virginia Beach, VA, and he arrived on the local scene at the tender age of 16, attending clubs, parties, and events rapping what he then knew as the gospel. As he got older, he really came to know who God is and what grace is. Since rededicating his life to Christ, he has seen tremendous growth and impact in his life, as well as the lives of others. Goss has been blessed to share the stage with some of hip-hop’s biggest names such as Nicki Minaj, The Clipse, Cross Movement, Da Truth, Canton Jones, etc. He has also headlined two tours of his own and
has released three mix tapes and two albums. Goss is just getting started, to say the least. He adopted the brand F.O.E. (Faith Over Everything) and has used this for other business ventures that include radio, television, speaking engagements, etc. After his rap career, Goss plans to go into ministry full-time and continue the good work that God has started in him.For general information and booking requirements, please contact, booking: Sharlene Sutton 804-519-7181 VISIT www.iamcgoss.com Additionally, like me on Facebook at cgossfoe and follow on Twitter and Instagram at iamcgoss.
Artist, (Pastor Bradley Johnson), Christian Rap Soul’s Poster Boy, BJ Ministries. “Never Give Up”. Never Give Up EP was released on 12/17/13 everywhere digital music is sold. His single “Still Reigns” was released in
February along with a video to support the single. He is also Co-Founder/CEO at Being Perfected Ministries, Founder at Nu Phi Christian Leadership Fraternity, Inc. and Chairman and CEO at N.A.T.D. Media LLC His twitter and instagram handles are @bjministries.
G2S (Tyrone Richardson) stepped into gospel music at the age of 26 and hasn’t turned back yet. “_Get saved…don’t worry about what people have to say,” He closed
with saying “_the early the better because you never know when you time is up.” For more info, visit his Facebook page at tyrone.richardson.50 27
Pastor Demetric Phillips is married to Latisha, father to three daughters, one son, he is a song writer, musician and he is also the Music Director of Praise and Worship at Destination Church in Hopewell and Colonial Heights Virgina.
WORSHIP IS
W
orship in its simplist form is obedience to God. We all love the presence of God and the feeling we get when we’re aware of His presence because there’s nothing like having the feeling of knowing you’ve just had an encounter with God. All of the above is great, but we shouldn’t use our emotions to determine if the presences of God is present. Reason being is because our emotions can be all over the place and we could start to allow ourselves to be discouraged when we can’t feel His presences like we’ve once before. Rather, we should rest in the fact that His presence has never left us because our God is ever presence and He’ll never leave us. If God needs to do something in us be sure that He’ll do it. We simply need to obey his word and that is sacrifice of worship. Worship is simply obeying God’s word.
“God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24)
28
weShine Warriors No.03| March
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21
The Power of Worship
by Rick Ezell William Booth the founder of the Salvation Army seeking the face of the Father? Children, like non used to say: “If a church was on fire for God, people believers, are watching. Believe me. They are watchfor miles would come to watch it burn.” ing. To paraphrase Booth: If believers experience the B. Spiritually saved people are sent out to share fire of God’s worship then lost people would be Christ after worship drawn to God like a moth to the flames. Through worship lost people are drawn to Christ The Bible teaches over and over again that God and at the same time believers feel the tug, the urge, would draw seekers to himself through authentic the compelling force of God to tell others about worship by his people. More people are won to him. In my diagram, this compelling force is the Christ by feeling God’s presence than by all our arrow on the right side of worship. apologetic argument combined. Few people, if → worship → any, are converted to Christ on purely intellectual A quick review of the Bible reveal a correlation grounds. The sense of God’s presence melts hearts between people encountering God through worship and explodes mental barriers. and the effect it had on their lives as they went out Think with me for a moment when churches had to share Christ. Let me share a few biblical examrevivals. In the beginning the protracted meetings ples of this happening. were designed to inspire the believers while Isaiah 6:1-8. “I saw the Lord seated on a high and impacting the spiritually lost. Many of these lofty throne, and His robe filled the temple . . . my meetings were great times of singing, testimony, eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts. . . . and preaching. People were drawn to the exuberThen I heard the voice of the Lord saying: Who ance of the worship, the authenticity of the people, should I send? Who will go for Us? I said: Here I and the power of the preacher. And what am. Send me’” (Isa. 6:1, 5, 8). Isaiah was happened? Time and time again, lost and depraved commissioned to go and speak to his people only people would come to altar when the preacher after he saw the Lord in worship. Isaiah saw, he finished his sermon and give their hearts to Jesus. heard, and he responded. If he had not entered into What some old-timers will say is: “We need to have worship he could have missed the calling of God revivals again.” I would suggest that what we need upon his life. is power of the worship that attracts people to the Matthew 28:16-20. “The 11 disciples traveled to Savior. Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed Seekers may not understand all that happens in a them. When they saw Him, they worshiped, but house of worship. They may not understand the some doubted. Then Jesus came near and said to meaning of a song or the significance of the comthem, ‘All authority has been given to Me in munion, but they know joy when they see it. They heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make know when lives are impacted. They can read when disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name lives are changed. And when they do they want of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, what those people have. teaching them to observe everything I have By the way, wouldn’t the opposite by equally true? commanded you. And remember, I am with you What happens when a spiritually distant person always, to the end of the age’” (Matt. 28:16-20). The sees boredom on the faces of worshipers? What Great Commission is the church’s heartbeat for if they see scowls? Yawns? Will they be attracted existence. It informs individual believers and the to Christ? As long as I am getting personal, may I church to go and to tell others about Jesus. Notice, step closer? Parents, what are your children learnif you will, that the context in which this command ing from your demeanor in worship? Do they see was given - a worship encounter. The Great the same excitement as when you go to a football Commission was given following a time of game? Do they see you prepare for worship as you worship. The disciples saw Jesus and worshipped do for a vacation? Do they see you hungry to arrive, him. Shouldn’t that be our response, too? 29
weShine Warriors No.03| March 2014
CONTINUED from page 29
The Power of Worship
B
by Rick Ezell
ut, here’s the point, it was in that context of worship that these men received God’s clear clarion call to go to the entire world and represent Jesus. Acts 2:1-41. On the day of Pentecost, it was the sound of eternal worship that invaded the upper room. Luke described the sound like that of a rushing wind. That awesome and beautiful sound, not unlike the sound of Old Faithful, was heard by God-fearing Jews from every nation who thought these early disciples were drunk. But they were “speaking the magnificent acts of God” (Acts 2:11). You could say that those one hundred twenty disciples were singing a new song. And the result was that many put their trust in the Lord - three thousand, at least! The disciples worshiped. The people heard and saw it. And, they came to faith in Christ. One fact stands out to me: those early Christians evangelized almost “by accident.” Evangelism sprang from their worship. Their worship witnessed to the awesome display of God’s presence and power. Unbelievers were drawn to Christ through their worship and, in turn, their worship compelled them to tell others about him. These wholehearted worshipers called the whole world to whole-hearted worship. You could describe the relationship like this: If you truly meet God, you will worship; and if you truly worship, others will be drawn to God; and, as you are drawn to God you are compelled to witness for Christ.
to set you on firm footing. Sing a new song. Sing a hymn of praise. That’s the arrow on the left side of worship. B. Tell others about your experience
III. The two challenges for the worshipper What can you do?
Gerrit Gustafson said it best: “Worship is the goal of evangelism and evangelism is the fruit of worship.” Or, it’s like seeing Old Faithful, basking in its glory and splendor, but you got to go home. You don’t live on the boardwalk around the old geyser. But once you have seen it, you want to tell other about. Just as one experiences God, they want to tell others about him. Be a worshipper, but also be a witness. Be one drawn into God’s presence, but also be one sent out into the world.
You can do what we did at Yellowstone National Park. Find a good seat each week to meet God in worship. A. Come to celebrate Lay aside your troubles, your anxieties, your fears, and your cares. Celebrate God’s gift of mercy and grace; God’s touch of forgiveness; God’s power to lift you out of the slimy pits of life; God’s provision
Worshipers don’t just enjoy God’s wonderful presence for yourselves. Invite people to join you at worship. Call others to join you on the mountain top of worship, to come into God’s presence, to stand before God’s throne. That’s the arrow on the right side of the word worship. Where are you on the diagram? Are you on the left side of the word worship? Are you being drawn to Christ? Great. You are a worshipper. While God does not need your worship, he delights in it. If you are on the left side and have not accepted Christ, at some point, you need to cross the line of faith and accept Christ into your heart.
Conclusion Are you on the right side of the word worship? Are you telling others about Christ? Are you inviting others into the presence of God? May I let you in on a secret: God wants you to live on both sides of the word worship. You are to be drawn to him. You are to worship. But, here’s the kicker, God doesn’t want you to stay there. He sends us out. To only stay on the left side is to disobey. God want us to worship, but he also wants us to witness.
Let them praise thy great and terrible name,.... All people, especially the Lord’s people; those that dwell in Zion, where his name is great, in high esteem, venerable, and valued; as his name Jesus, or Saviour, is amiable and lovely to his saints; and his name, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, is terrible to his enemies: for it is holy; his name is holy, as well as reverend and great; his nature is holy, both divine and human; holy in all his ways and works; and is holiness to his people, and therefore worthy of praise; holiness is the 30 ground and foundation of his praise from the seraphim.
ADVERTISEMENT
At RJTrent Multimedia Productions, we provide customers with a range of audio visual services and concepts. These services includes photography, video productions, audio production, and limit graphic design services. Other services offered includes commercials, family photography, music videos, event recording services, recording studio production and rental space for private meetings and parties. Our goal is to provide you with a range of professional services for a price that wont hurt your pockets. We are located in the Historic Old Town Petersburg, near the civic center. Tue - Fri: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm ~ Sat: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Address Phone
125 Pocahontas St. Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 835-9308 Email: rjtrentmp@gmail.com
LET US BE YOUR PERSONAL TRAVEL AGENCY
We’re dedicated to offering you the best prices and advice, while maintaining an emphasis on customer service, so don’t hesitate to contact us so we can start planning your next travel adventure! CALL SIFIKA STANFORD @ 1-702-883-0441
31
Brought to you by Women Ablaze International Ministries Send all inquires to INFO@wesparklemagazine.com Send stories to be considered to submission@wesparklemagazine.com
32