WOW Issue II by WOW Magazine

IS YOUR FIRE CONTAGIOUS?

2009| Issue II

CONTAGIOUS FIRE

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2009| Issue II

CONTAGIOUS FIRE

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INS IDE T HIS IS S UE:

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Next Edition: Test to TESTimony

The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Treasure

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As I sat before the mirror preparing for an event, the Lord asked this question of me: Is Your Fire Contagious? It made me pause and consider myself and discern where I was at that moment. Is the fight showing or is the fighter in you being seen? Lord, I pray for a rekindling of the embers of zeal and passion for you. Restore unto me the joy of Your salvation. Enlarge my heart and I will run after You. Draw me to You Lord in a more intimate and deeper personal relationship. As I touch the hem of Your garment through worship and faith release Your Holy Spirit and power afresh in my life. Set me aflame and send me into Your harvest that souls would be won for the glory of the Lord. Your fire shall no longer be shut up in my bones Lord, but I open my heart so that You would fill it and overflow with a goodly theme and my tongue is the pen of a ready writer. I will freely share Your zeal with others, for I overcome, am victorious, by the word of my

You see no matter how many times you may be strong in your fight, the enemy preys on the one time you were not fully covered by the Spirit to undermine your witness and testimony to others who may be looking to you whether you realize it or not. Our hearts should burn with the zeal of the Lord. Just as the disciples that as we talk about Jesus, His sacrifice and encounter our Heavenly Father should be on, within, and upon us all at the same time. When the Bible refers to the Father as a consuming fire He truly is just that. And having come into any kind of contact with Him we should be changed and have that same fire as well, so that when others see, they are drawn, captivated to come into direct contact with the fire, power, zeal, passion that is upon us. They desire what we have, because we have the answer. The answer is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

testimony. 2009| Issue II

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A voice to provoke you until darkness cannot abide. They stand and give voice to the Wordâ&#x20AC;ŚWords to prick and goad you, to discomfort you, a catalyst for change and transformation. Their weapon is in the pitch and intonations of their voice. With the spoken Word of god, they pierce your ears and prick your heart. Power carried over waves of soundâ&#x20AC;Ś

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Comprise vs. Compromise By Nikki Brooks Comprise – to consist of; to be composed of; to form Compromise - to make a dishonorable or shameful concession; to expose or make vulnerable to danger, suspicion, scandal, Witness – testimony, evidence

Is my witness effective?

I remember working in the Music Department of my church as a teenager. My family and I commuted over an hour to a rather large church. The teaching was awesome, there were ample volunteer opportunities, and most of all I was really growing in the things of God and developing a relationship with Him. There were several women who I admired “from afar.” I knew they were spiritual because they were leaders in the church, and I knew they were achievers because they had lengthy resumes of success outside of the church.

How has it affected

I recall one day, observing one of the women interact with the choir. She was dealing with one individual in particular, and it was something about others? her voice that made me uncomfortable. She wanted perfection, but her What can I do to increase choice of words, and the air in her tone were so condescending that she was ripping the person to shreds. It wasn‟t what she said, but the way in the effectiveness of my which she said it. What hurt even more was that the majority of the people in the room followed suit. Because we knew she was anointed witness? and we admired her gifts, we thought that her words were closer to God. What she didn‟t know is that she was destroying someone else‟s walk with God. What I have come to learned is that anointing doesn‟t always equal character. We have all heard the scripture, “Let your light shine before so that men can see your good works.” The rest of that scripture continues and it lets us know that it is people observing and taking not of our good works that allows them to really see God. The “works” that others observe from you, coupled with your attitude makes up the believers “witness.” Your witness is your testimony. It is the outside display and evidence of an inside commitment. The questions we must constantly ask are: 1. Is my witness effective? 2. How has it affected others? 3. What can I do to increase the effectiveness of my witness? You are always impacting or affecting something or someone in your world. But the question that you must ask yourself is, “What type of effect is my witness having on others around me? Is it positive or negative? Am I moving others towards God or away from God? When people are in my presence, are they comfortable enough to be themselves, but still cognizant enough to honor who I am, and what I say I stand for? Your character is who you are when no one is looking. Your witness is your character on display. You are always forming (comprising) a witness for others with your words, actions, and deeds. But the question is, are you compromising your character, which hinders your witness, and ultimately strips your testimony of its effect. Most dedicated women of God who focus on achievement thrive in their Christian walk. They follow “Steps to Answered Prayer,” master the ABC‟s of Faith, and have a prayerfully planned map to “Maximizing Life.” Yet, it‟s the little foxes that come along with being an achiever that spoil the bunch. Take heed to the following and examine your own life. Other people are watching you because they admire your achievements and know that you have been anointed for success, but your behavior on display (character) will speak to others about your commitment to God.

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8 1. Never Over Promise. Always Over Deliver. The Bible says to let your “yes be yes, and your no be no….anything more is from the evil one.” Our very productive technology driven society makes the job of a Proverbs 31 woman more effective. The process of accomplishing task can be streamlined and reduced to save hundreds of hours in time. Emailing vs phone calling, Voice recognition v. typing, and Skyping vs. meeting in person to name a few. With so much mastery of time, it is very easy and tempting to take on more things just because we can. The usage of so many tools often causes us to put more on the “to-do list, and add on task for ourselves and others that are outside of the priority zone of your purpose. You have such confidence in your ability to manipulate your tasking tools that you overestimate the amount of time availability required to diligently master the areas that God has purposed you to dominate. And although your gifts are valuable enough that people don‟t mind waiting on them – the disappointment of not completing what you said, when you first said it, often takes value away from the strength of your Christian commitment. 2. Give yourself a realistic margin. You must give yourself room for error. We often embrace the truth that God shall perfect that which concerns me,” we often take up the sword of perfectionism and we mask it as a commitment to excellence. Perfectionism comes from the value of our self-worth being misplaced and performance based. You are so aware of things being a reflection of you that you obsess over minute details. This often results in strings of projects that are never good enough and therefore are never complete as well as unrealistic demands on others who work with you. Eventually it converts itself into condescension, pride, and disdain of

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the work and efforts of others. Give yourself a margin of error. You don‟t have to be perfect. You will never reach your personal expectation – which will result in underlying dissatisfaction, and then others around you are left tasting the bitterness of how you see yourself. When people consistently discover criticism and critique from you (even if it‟s of yourself) – they cannot see Christ in you. Achievement does not validate you. Success means one of two things: 1)hard work paid off; 2) God kept His Word. Neither of these two excuses us from impacting others. Because of the faith movement in the Body of Christ – women of God are accessing and tapping into the Earth‟s wealth and resources like never before. Our faith victories boost our confidence and provide us with the proverbial pat on the back that says, “I got this faith thing. I worked the Word, and the Word worked for me.” But realize that you (as well as others) are who you are without the car. God sees you as who you are before you or anyone else see it. Pay it forward. Remember the days when you had to hold on to the preachers Word or lose your mind. Remember when you were walking in who God told you be, but others just saw you as waddling in a mess? Remember how you felt when someone who you assigned worth and success to patted you on the back and treated you as an equal? There are hundreds of women around you everyday who not only admire the God in you and think you have made it, but need affirmation from you. They need to feel like someone not only cares, but sees them as great as God says they are. When is the last time you spoke without being spoken to? When is the last time you gave a genuine hug, or held a reciprocal conversation? Constantly check your heart and motive because people who are on the receiving end of charity know how to discern and identify it – even when you think it‟s totally covered up as care. Don’t just network – Connect. When is the last time you genuinely connected with a person without thinking in the back of your mind, “Is this person in my demographic, or I wonder how this connection can benefit me and my agenda?” When is the last time you have had a conversation with someone, and when you offered to pray it was genuine Christ family love and concern – not an opportunity to leave them with an impression of how anointed and spiritual you are. There is nothing wrong with marketing. Effective marketing is a blessing from God and it works. Marketing is a responsibility and sign of the good stewardship that knows it‟s responsible for maximizing whatever God has given to your care. Jesus and His message were marketed. However, people do not exist just to fuel our business ideas and ventures. They are God‟s most prized possession, and He does not take lightly to them being used for gain, and not cared for in the process. Have integrity with your connections. If your organization has grown to the point where you don‟t answer emails, never take phone calls, and don‟t know what your social networking profiles look like – then stop telling everyone that you want to personally connect with them. If you can‟t do it – don‟t say it. Part of us trusting God to build the house is trusting that the true colors of a thing will not hinder God drawing people to it. There is nothing wrong with creativity. I myself am a lover of words, and I can think of fifteen different ways to say the same thing. Yet, I am constantly aware that other people are reading what I say, assigning worth and value to it, and possibly patterning their lives after it. So, unless my

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9 objective is fiction – I owe it to myself, others, and God to be honest with my presentation. 7. Don’t be afraid to admit missing the mark. I believe the difference in King David‟s life and Saul‟s was that David openly admitted that he missed the mark. Not only was their a level of transparency amongst his household, the Psalms are full of

descriptions of his transgressions, shortcomings, and varying emotions. It‟s obvious that he didn‟t have it all together, but it‟s even more obvious that God kept him from falling apart. When you miss the mark, miss an appointment, overpromise, under deliver, fail to follow through, and so much more, just admit it to those you work with, fix it, and move on. Being humble enough to show imperfection is often the strongest testimony many people can see. Knowing that you have weaknesses, but that you overcome them with God‟s strength gives hope and encouragement to others that need to know that God is not a respector of persons, and that He wants to do things in their life too.

When we allow the Holy Spirit into the garden of our lives, and allow Him to prune and weed out our priorities, scheduling, and work habits, He will start to form us and our witness will be comprised of the things that bring Him glory, we won‟t fall victim to compromise, and people will sense the difference. You will begin to emit a fragrance that is so tantalizing, so promising, and so perfumed that others will have know that there is something different about you, want what you have, and in turn be introduced to your God.

For everyone who has ever pondered this question with an open mind...this book is for you

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The Cross Firm exists to serve, represent, and protect businesses and individuals who have dreams, visions, products, services, callings, missions, or passions that may lead to solving a grave problem for their family, or creating an opportunity in the market place that propels them to the next level, or ultimately find a solution that becomes a blessing to all mankind. This is what we live to do as a Law Firm. That is our work. That is our contribution to society. That is what makes us relevant as a Law Firm. That is what drives us and makes each day a joy to live no matter the challenges. Our Passion allows us to overcome the fear of opponents, difficult situations, negative circumstance that may come against us in serving our client -- no matter -- we will STAND with her, we will PRAY with him, we will FIGHT and not RETREAT, and we will prevail through Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s provisions and wisdom. Our Passion is to make that vision, that dream, that idea, that seemingly impossibilityâ&#x20AC;Ś..a reality. That is our Story and the best chapters are yet to be written. Leslie Warren Cross Jr., Esq.

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Naked Prayer You see the very core of me That which can be so easily hidden From men I come before you now oh Lord Acknowledging my faults And confessing my sins I have nothing to lose Yet everything to gain Weary, burden down Yet finding strength in your Holy name

Daphney M. Chaney Evangelist Community Activist Professional Empowerment Inspirational Speaker

She has a passion for people. She carries a true burden for the lost, coupled with a desire to see people everywhere reach their full potential in Christ. She possesses an anointing to minister to women. After experiencing deliverance in her own life, she mentors, counsels, and coachs people from all walks of life. Trained by patience and humbled by personal challenges, God has matured her into the Virtuous woman she is today. Daphney is on fire for the Lord and sold out for Christ, her life's mission is to help the lost, the hurting and the needy. She knows what it is like to merely exist, and not live, therefore she is also committed to empowering individuals to move beyond complacency to mastering their destiny and full potential in Christ. She possesses an anointing to minister to women. After experiencing deliverance in her own life, she mentors, counsels, and coachs people from all walks of life. Growing up in an environment where dreams and goals were not encouraged, she became a selfstarter and self-motivator

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My hope sometimes it fades And sometimes my faith gets dim I‟m reaching out to you Oh Lord I need to touch your garments hem

You see the very soul of me Here am I Lord Naked and unashamed Here I stand Oh‟ Lord broken but confident That I shall be healed I am empty Lord But I know I shall be filled I lay before you bare It‟s me Oh Lord standing Naked in Prayer You know well Oh‟ Lord The way that I take And after I have been tested and tried You will settle, and establish me For thine own name‟s sake

Oh wretched person that I am Your word says that even on my best day This is not a Church experience Not a sanctimonious show My righteousness is nothing but a filthy rag But it‟s me Oh‟ Lord Cleanse me, renew me Surrendering, and emptying my very soul Wash me with the blood of the lamb You are my portion God Sometimes, Lord I fall, Yes my daily bread And sometimes I come seeking restoration I lose my way Oh‟ God Far from your will, Resurrect those things within me Sometimes I stray But you look upon me God, with your loveThat are dead (talents, gifts, and faith) And extend your Amazing Grace I‟m calling for new life oh God Here am I Lord A refreshing in my bones I need a touch from the potter‟s hand I‟m hurting Lord, I can‟t do this alone Oh‟ that you would make the path Straight before me I take up my cross and follow thee Like only you can For my way is death but you are life I stretch my hands to you I come before you bare With a broken heart Oh‟ Lord and spirit that is contrite It‟s me, even me Oh‟ Lord Standing in naked prayer I can‟t make it without you God I‟ve tried, its way too hard I am thirsty Lord, and my soul is weak I‟ve done some things I pour my soul out to you And I‟ve had some things done to me It‟s hard to find the strength to forgive God For you alone understand my tears But I know if I don‟t And you know my heart You won‟t forgive me It is in anguish that I cry out I can‟t do this alone But I know when I am weak That is when you are strong My soul lays before you bare Oh‟ God It‟s me Oh ‟Lord…… It‟s me Oh ‟Lord I am stripped of garments, titles, positionsStanding in naked prayer And names © 05/2008 Daphney M. Chaney CONTAGIOUS FIRE

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“Clothing and appearance affect how we feel and think about ourselves. They can lift our spirits and help give us confidence to face the real world.” – Jill Swanson

“The body is God’s handiwork. We have a responsibility to take care of it and to present ourselves in a way that will compliment the Kingdom of God. How we appear reflects our integrity and competence. Through initial contact with people, fifty-five percent of our perceived credibility is based on appearance alone! First impressions lay the groundwork for establishing trust and believability.” Jill Swanson

Simply Beautiful: Inside and Out 2009| Issue II

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it. Romans 12:1 tells us to “present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service”. That verse is requesting that we present ourselves to God in the manner that would please Him. Anything that we present to God should be at its best. If we are giving God something that is less than the best we are grossly short changing God.

Presenting Your Vessel: Is Your Fire Contagious? By Alana R. Higginbotham

As you step outside of your private doors, do you put much thought into your appearance? Is it a secondary thought or not even a thought at all? Many men and women find themselves caring less and less about the way they look. As the years of life move on it actually becomes more important that you take care of your outward man (or woman). If you have a fire for God and the things that His word has done in your life how can you convey that zeal if you are not dressing presentably? Your level of success is more easily received when your outward man shows 2009| Issue II

A common excuse for not dressing the part is a lack of time. I am here to declare that it takes the same amount of time to put on raggedy lounge gear as it does to cloak yourself in a suitable garment, and with no compromise on comfort. All it takes is some minor pre-planning and you are on your way to success in your dress. As God’s Word speaks to us we hear that though the Lord looks at our heart, man looks at our outward appearance. With that in mind, what do men and women see when they look at you? Are they impressed? Do they believe you when you tell them how God has changed your life? When you speak of your church home and all it has done to bring you to your next level, is it apparent by your outward appearance? While going out for a quick run to the grocery store in a three piece suit and stilettos is not necessary, it is important that you dress yourself presentably.

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Dress yourself so that your “Fire May Be Contagious”. Most of us can’t keep quiet about something that we are excited and passionate about. If we discover the cutest pair of shoes on earth on sale at Saks we have to let our girlfriends know. But you’ve got to show them those shoes as proof of your successful shopping trip. So it goes with our excitement and passion for the things of God. You never know when you will meet someone with whom you can share information about God’s goodness. Therefore, you must always be dressed and ready to speak on God’s behalf. If a man in a jogging suit with old tennis shoes and bad grammar claimed that he was a high powered attorney that could handle your legal concerns you may not be so convinced. But if that same man approached you wearing a suit and carrying a briefcase you may develop a different idea about his professionalism. The same is to be considered when you step out into the world to be received by others. The following are some helpful hints to make sure “Your Fire Is Contagious”: Iron ahead of time. When you have a quick minute iron a few pairs of jeans and a few tops. Hang them in the front of your closet. This will make them easily accessible for when you are in a hurry but still want to look nice. Invest in cute, comfy shoes. You can find one or two pair of http://bit.ly/WOWMagazine

comfortable flats and/or sandals that are easy to wear yet comfortable. The comfort of a tennis shoe can be found in other types of shoes. Look for certain fabric types. Be mindful that there are fabrics that are very comfortable and very dressy at the same time. Put together ensembles that look good and feel good. You don’t have to give up comfort for style. Dress clothing is not just for special occasions. You can take a dress or slacks and dress them down. Pair your brown and tan hounds tooth slacks with a fitted cotton tshirt in purple and a pair of low heel (or no heel) brown sandals. With this look you’ve got style, class, and comfort. Who could ask for more? As you take all things into consideration, also consider living on purpose as it relates to your appearance. Dressing your body properly can do a world of good for your attitude and your outlook on life.

We Must Be The Change We Wish To See In The World We must bridge the gap that divides us socially we must rid ourselves of fears and insecurities that bring about dis-unity We must stand for something so we don't fall for anything we must learn to let go and let God so the bells of freedom can truly ring We must be the pride behind the power of equality We must put away sight walking small planning and the cycle of mediocrity We must spread our wings and fly high beyond all we can imagine or dare to dream We must get to a place where joy and peace are the songs we long to sing We must choose our battles wisely take a stand for that in which we believe we must love without condition and give more than we expect to receive We must breaks down walls, cross boundaries and not live with limitations We must maximize the moment seize every opportunity with passion for purpose and strong determination We must confront our fears re-program our minds and master our weaknesses We must not be defined by the views of others but love ourselves embracing our own identities We must never give up, give out, or give in no matter how dark the day or winding the road We must travel this journey with FAITH knowing God carries our heaviest and burdensome loads We must take the responsibility to enrich the minds of every woman, every man, every boy and every girl Yes,WE must be the change, we wish to see in the WORLD. © 2006 Daphney Chaney

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LoVe FLaVor I released myself today. I figured out who I am and got into my place. And upon setting myself free, I found that the us finally became a WE. I was told to be strong, but that strength became distorted. As I tried to dominate the one purposed for authority. It was by design, a most perfect plan. For before I was created, the Creator made my man. I don’t have a problem saying that now. I don’t have a problem displaying that now. Submissiveness is not a bad term. It is the place for which my heart truly yearns. To be loved, to be provided for, to be protected beyond measure. I am the apple of his eye, the best jewel of the entire treasure. See He chose me over you and I chose Him over all the others. He was the only one who could cause me to leave the security of my father and mother. Now I know I sung worldly anthem songs talking about I can do bad all by myself, but nobody told me that to walk all alone would be a new kind of hell. This stress I was not meant to carry, this toil was never my own, I tried to take your position, but I can’t do this alone. I find myself crying and weeping, suffering while my girls are laughing and sleeping…sleeping around that is…for they are just like me searching for rest, desperate for peace. But, for so long I have awaited for you to arise and take your place. Yeah, I said take your place and I mean do just that don’t allow my whimpers or haughty words to cause you to drawback. This is not done with abusive words or abusive behavior, but this is done through Love our own special blend of LoVe FLaVor. It is developed over seasons of time. As we grow and figure this walk and each other out. Each man has his own, but I know my man’s in particular. It is a quiet strength, firm word, guiding hand, a yielding to allow me to try, but a gathering to protect me when I have gone too far, an understanding of me, and allowing me to know him. A warrior’s mentality: strategic and sound, with my Father’s heart: love and forgiveness abounds. I love him. I need him. Yes, this “strong” black woman needs her man. This does not diminish me, but rather enhances the Father’s plan. And now I have a new anthem song: ‘what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man…YES He is…Say it again now.’

Inspirational Verse Guest:

God the Father will help you if you lean on Him and trust that He is with you. Learn to listen to the words and instructions that He gives to you for your life. You will inevitably change. Allow Him to separate you from wrong people and quench any burning desire for carnal lusts. As you open yourself to His word and change, your heart will begin to fill with love and compassion for all His people. God has so many ways to help and heal your life. The question becomes: will you be still long enough to be made complete in Him? I say, „Yes, yes you can grow pass yourself and become engrafted in Him.‟ His hands will continue to lead you towards the path of peace and true happiness. True happiness and freedom is found only in Him. When you make that change, others will automatically be infected. You will spread love and encouragement in your sphere of influence. Your smile will light up the gloomiest room. Your hands will heal with the slightest touch. Your voice will soothe, calm and quiet the mightiest of storms. Confidence will be a constant companion, and you will never again doubt that God Himself is with you… He always was and will FOREVER more be. JC is a highly sought after inspirational speaker. favorite quote:

“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” Billy Graham 2009| Issue II

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The flicker is but a breath from being extinguished and a moment from becoming a flame...The flame longs to consume. A flicker understands how weak it really is and that the light it casts is not from its own strength but the breath of life that sustains it. The flame knows its purpose is to influence. Through a shared experience ignited by a single touch, it aflame others causing them to leap, dance, and be consumed. Both are needed for both cast light and have the power and authority to cause darkness to flee in its presence. Whether but a flicker or a brightly burning blaze, its power is always respected.

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entities practice PR tactics only when trouble arises. The effect of this is similar to trying to light a candle when it’s at its wick’s end; it can be successful but, even so, the results will not last long. There is high value in being known or becoming synonymous with goodwill, integrity, generosity, etc. by implementing PR as an essential and consistent component of a business. Through PR, a business can create a healthy and consistent platform for its brand, what it is known for, that is more powerful than anything that happens to the business in the marketplace. In order to do PR good, do not worry about doing PR good. PR should be incorporated as a natural part of an entity’s cultural and core values and must place emphasis on the public’s interest. PR, simply put, embodies genuine, good-faith goodwill and intentions toward Monica L. Coleman others. The first question a reporter or editor will ask before running a story is “how does it benefit the public or readers?” If the answer to Public Relations: Do You Flicker or Flame? that question is illegitimate, that story will end up on the ad sales rep’s Public relations (PR) – the reason authors desk. Effective PR is not simply promotions, advertising, or even want to be featured on Oprah – is more marketing; it involves and engages valuable now than ever in our world the public. Thus, any form of PR of social media, marketing, and should focus on the public’s interest Working on PR campaign branding. The idea of exposing a along with the company’s benefit. book to millions of viewers for free for Christ by being on Oprah is the ultimate Personally Speaking We use public dream from some authors. Nothing relations in our personal lives, too. helps to reach more people In this case, the public is an efficiently and effectively than public individual other than self. For example, we only share or publicize a relations. Yet, PR can be as little and limited amount of information about ourselves – the good stuff – contained as flickers of a candle at its wick’s when we initially meet someone. We behave this way because it is end or as huge and contagious as a flames the easiest way for us to learn more about a stranger and see if a from a Californian wildfire. It all depends on relationship with that stranger benefits us. If we are looking to build a how the fire is fueled and fed. lasting relationship with someone, we simply engage with that person Professionally Speaking Businesses use public relations to gain credible exposure in the marketplace as PR provides a way of managing communication between a business or entity and its public or audience. When consistent and genuine, PR contributes hugely to making a message viral – spreading very far, very fast. Viral messages do not just happen because you share them. They happen because they are emotional, meaningful to the receiver, and worth spreading – all of which characteristics make great PR. Yet, some 2009| Issue II

more often. The more we involve a person in our lives, the more we realize the value, or lack of value, that person has in our lives; hence, we see the popular demand for social media. And, yes, all of that is PR – managing communication between self and the public. Jesus Christ uses PR, too. As a matter of fact, He does it through us and desires that we spread His good news like the Californian wildfires. When we provide care for the sick or minister to the hopeless, Jesus Christ is communicating His love for the world through us. So, what we do and say or what we do not do and say sends a message to the darkness of this world. If we live as the example expressed in I Timothy 4:12, we serve our Master well by fueling the fire of the Holy Spirit during this PR campaign we call life.

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20 Here are the steps illustrated: 1. … be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity (vs.12). One of the most prevalent ways a believer can feed the fire of the Spirit is in one’s daily walk. Your daily walk really includes your thoughts, speech, and conduct. The public is watching. How do you want them to relate to Christ in you? If you want the public to draw near to Christ, allow them to first draw near to you by living a life that is attractive or healthy and wholesome. 2. … give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine (vs.13). A very important way of fueling a fire is to add more essential elements to its base or foundation. For the believer, this is a matter of

gaining more knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of God. Achieve this by studying the Word, responding to the instruction of God, and continually seeking His truth. 3. Do not neglect the gift that is in you … (vs.14) You were created with purpose and a burning passion. We all have been given a gift or gifts from God. We publicize our gifts by simply using them. Neglecting the gift that is in you is similar to spreading bad PR or news that hurts or does not help the kingdom of God. 4. Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all (vs.15). The time you spend toward understanding the heart of

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God so that you can understand the assignment you have will equate to the intensity of the fire you possess inside by the Holy Spirit. 5. Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you (vs.16). Be consistent in your daily walk, which is your PR campaign for Christ. Your daily walk will create a testimony that shows who you really are and what you really believe, whether for good or bad. Knowing all of the above about public relations, would you say that you and/or your business flickers or flames? Please send your feedback on this article to mail@theservantmedia.com

Realizing her difficulties with reading comprehension after starting college, Monica faced both academic and spiritual struggles. She credits prayer, fasting, and Christian literature for helping her improve in both areas. After seven years, she earned a bachelor‟s degree in communications with a minor in business administration from the University of Texas in Arlington. Currently, she is managing her new and rapidly expanding company, The Servant Media with plans of launching and writing her first book.

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DJ Crazy C at Crazyâ&#x20AC;&#x;shouse Recording Studio brings major label sound to the independent hip hop, R&B, gospel, and spoken word artists. We have several years experience in the industry and our chief mixing engineer has several mixing credits on various platinum and gold artists including but not limited to: Ghetto Boys Scarface Paul Wall & Chamillionaire Shei Atkins 8ball & MJG Jodeci Mista Madd

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An Oak just is: strong, majestic, reliable, sturdy, firm, immoveable, with roots deep and wide-spread. An Oak provides solace to many who need respite from a storm or shelter from the scorching sun. It holds a well of sap within that is balm for those who need itâ&#x20AC;Ś. for those who perceive it. Consider the oak and how in the midst of a torrential thunderstorm, it just stands. You yourself run under it for shelter from the elements. Never flinching, it provides comfort and shelter. Life experiences are designed to strengthen our faith to this same level of assured resilience in the midst of tests and trials, preparing us to become an oak for others. Until, finally, our witness is not about a feeling, it is what we do. So that in the midst of personal storms raging, we giveâ&#x20AC;Ś comfort, strength, support, encouragement, time, prayersâ&#x20AC;Ś with arms raised, petitions are made on behalf of others in need. We forgo our own pain and share our faith, so that others would have an encounter with Jesus and the Holy Spirit and come to know the Father. And in doing so God answers our silent prayers, tears, and petitions as well.

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CONTAGIOUS FIRE

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IS YOUR FIRE CONTAGIOUS?

By Terry Saulsberry person‟s life, but we are admonished to let our light shine. Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven”. I considered this word light. Light is defined as: spiritual illumination;

something that enlightens or informs; to set afire or to start something to burn. We have been Let me began by saying I certainly hope so. I began to ponder over it and asked myself, “is your fire contagious? Can anybody see the fire in you? To be perfectly honest with you, I wasn‟t sure if I was the person to write about this subject. If I were to base my answer by how I felt when first asked to do this, it probably would have been “No”. So I began to seek God as to whether I should write on this subject or decline. Some days later, as I was preparing for work, the Holy Spirit brought the question up to me again – Is Your Fire Contagious? And as I began to meditate for a possible answer, He began to speak to me. Often times, it is difficult for us to see the impact we are making in the lives of others. In fact, we may never know what we have done to influence or encourage a 2009| Issue II

called to represent God in the earth and we do this by allowing His Light (attributes, character, power and ability) to be visibly seen in and through us. I want to encourage you, especially if you find yourself where I was, questioning: „Can anybody see the fire in you?‟ In weakened conditions, when it appears that our fire is barely burning, flickering, dampening, mere moments from being extinguished, it is at these times, when we feel we have royally botched up what God has assigned us to do, during these moments when we feel we are the most inadequate and the least effective, we make the most impact on an individual‟s life. This is especially true when it comes to operating in the ministry gifts and call God has placed upon us. Have you ever been there? Are you there right now? If you are, I have good news for you! It is at that very moment, I believe your fire is burning at its highest intensity and your light is shining at its brightest. How can this be?

CONTAGIOUS FIRE

God reminded me that it is at the time of our insufficiency and inadequacy, that it is His fire and His light that is being demonstrated in and through us, not ours! He reminded me of what Paul said, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 –“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” I have found this to be true in my own experiences, and believe me there have been many. The times when I felt I was the least effective when I was called upon to bring a message or to pray, these were the times that people would come to me afterwards and say how blessed they were by what was said or prayed; how they felt that God was speaking directly to them; how encouraged they were after hearing the message or the prayer. I say this for no glory of my own! I say this as the redeemed of the Lord saying so! I say this to give the glory and the credit to God (Psalm 107:2). It was at those times that God‟s grace took over and caused the fire of His Holy Spirit to ignite in me, thus meeting the needs of His people.

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24 Nothing God calls us to do for Him is about us, but it is always about His people and about Him receiving the glory and honor that is due Him. In our weakness, if we will yield our vessels to Him, He will make us strong and empower us with the fire of His Holy Spirit to accomplish what is needed. For you see, (Zechariah 4:6) it is not by power, nor is it by might, but everything that is done for God must be done by His Spirit. The Fire that is being referred to is the Holy Spirit of God! When He comes, He comes as our Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, and Standby. This is the fire that is being manifested as we walk in obedience to the Word of God and the Work of God. The fire of the Holy Spirit is demonstrated visibly as our Counselor, our Helper, our Advocate, our Intercessor, our Strengthener and our Standby! Word of Wisdom:

“Witnessing is not about a feeling, it is what you do. What do I mean by this? Let's say your day may not have started off as you would have liked, but when you get to work you see someone hurting. The intercessor in you, which is the Holy Spirit, will cause you to push pass your needs and address the needs of others. This is the fire of Christ. His compassion for those hurting despite the 2009| Issue II

fact that He Himself was hurting. Reflect on the story of Lazarus and even at his friend‟s death, Christ still had compassion on the people and fed them the Word of God.” (Erica Kemper)

This is the fire that people should see in us! Jesus is our perfect example of this statement. Considering the following passage of scripture and be certain, totally convinced, that if the Holy Spirit abides in you, your fire will always be contagious, even when you yourself may not be aware it. You just have to yield to Him and His power. Acts 10:38 tells how 1God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with 2 the Holy Ghost and with power: 3 who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; 4for God was with him”. HOW TO BE CERTAIN THAT YOUR FIRE IS CONTAGIOUS: 1. Know that you are anointed and called by God. 2 Corinthians 1:2022 “For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. Now He which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.” 2. Know that God has equipped you with His Holy Spirit and His Power. Acts 1:8 “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, CONTAGIOUS FIRE

and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” 3. Know that you are called to do good and bring healing to the Body of Christ. Isaiah 61:1-3 “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified”. 4. Know that God is with You. Matthew 28:20 “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen”. Hebrews 13:5b “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have:

for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee”.

Remember, none of us are perfect, but we are being perfected by God as we allow Him to perfect everything that concerns us.

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25 .

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A Spoken Word CD

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I thought to myself, I love Your works, as I awoke to the sound of rain. It woke me up just as gently as it had lulled me to sleep last night. I watched the rain roll down the pane of glass. in quiet reflection, I thought on how Great You Are. Just one word: beautiful. I thought it was me describing You, But in that moment, I understood it was Your thought towards me. Beautiful are Thy works Lord. I never thought of myself as such, But beauty is measured by time I take to admire You: quiet reflections. Your thoughts humble me. The storm has passed, Now, I am smiling as I gaze at a clear, sunny day. I stand totally amazed by Thy power on displayâ&#x20AC;Ś

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28 rather than images of You in my former condition: the so-called heathens, harlots, whoremongers, robbers, thieves, adulterers, murderers... the prodigal children gone astray. Even then Christ is in us all, whether awakened to the Light of the Son and the Truth of the Kingdom or still yet sleeping awaiting a due season. But the sinners den is not where I find myself in. In fact, I avoid those places, and thereby, Your people. Really, what will the ‘saints’ think to see me amongst such a crowd? But the Great Physician who works through me is yearning for lives to heal. In the end, I know it was never about my desire, but only about Your will.

Erica N. Kemper

Reflecting or Infecting I am constantly in a mode of checking my motives and monitoring my heart. I am asking now Lord this avenue that you have allowed, which is powerful indeed, am I doing Your will or doing what pleases me? You have sent us out amongst them, so that THEY would come out from among them. THEY are your chosen, a nation set apart for Your glory and the glory of Your Son. But, I find myself in another fellowship of the saints if you will. We go Sunday to Wednesday and now it is the whole week still. We have congregated amongst ourselves being very comfortable to be who we are. It is easy among like minded and -spirited individuals, but now Lord, I need you to discomfort me. Move me as You will and desire. For I don’t know about others, but I have gone out and received images of me now, in my present state 2009| Issue II

So, I find myself asking who are they, the ones you have chosen, still yet asleep? Where do they lie in slumber? Where do they meet? I have to go there and bring this Light within. I need You to lead me there for You alone know who has been chosen and numbered. I trust you will keep me there… So now I am returning to You, finally after weeks of doing it on my own. Explain the assignment once more, then Lord provide access to every closed door. Every door that you would have opened in this time to open blinded eyes and deaf ears. Who are they you have sent me to? I stand praying to the Lord of the Harvest. Your field is white but your workers continue to be few. But I understand that time is still moving and actually progressing quickly to a culmination. A set day marked by your predetermination. So Lord, help me to focus….Your Will, Your Way….Lord help me to focus on the voice of thy Spirit and be bold enough to speak the Word of Your Truth. Continually bring me in to send me back out …each time with the assignment clearly understood, walking in your wisdom with the Holy Spirit providing discernment… Is this You, for it has definitely been me. But now, I have been set aright …no longer just reflecting BUT infecting so that Christ can touch another life.

Know who you are called to minister to Be willing to connect with them where they are Share the details of your personal testimony of deliverance to win others Allow the Great Physician to treat others through you, remember He needs vessels not judges Be committed to pleasing God more than man so the opinions of others cannot sway you from your God-given assignment Speak TRUTH, but understand it is still their choice to receive Stay in continual, daily communion with the Father, confirm and reconfirm the assignment as often as needed

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The chosen The Lord uses the young. There is the sound of violence in the atmosphere but it should not be feared. It is the sound of a generation, a host of warriors, being awakened. Do not be afraid for though they have come to fight it is not against the sons of the Light, but against the darkness, the enemy of this world. Beware of the distorters, those things that alter your perception of reality: drugs, alcohol, even „extreme‟ digital media that invite you to escape from the cares and/or concerns of your everyday life. It is a strategy of the enemy to break your focus, hinder your progress, and abort your awakening. For thousands of years a war has been waging between The Chosen and darkness and we are on the threshold of seeing victory. The Light has come. FIGHT! When He calls, do not say I am young. Say, YES! Though there will be darkness and death all around, do not be dismayed. Take courage, stand, and fight for you are not fighting alone. Your efforts are not in vain. You are victorious for you are………………….

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