M'Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine 2011 Fall/Winter Edition by M'Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine

Modern Beauty In Christian Living

Special Edition

Christian Magazine

2011 Fall Issue

Put Your Trust In God... Not Man!

Free

Over & Under Estimation: How It Can Affect Your Business

Dr. Paul D. Landrew

Looking For Help! Inspirational Message:

Inform

by Sharnelle Jones

•

Educate

Half Marathon At 53 Beverly Myles Read How She Did It

•

Inspire

C o n t e n t s Recognizing Our Youth

Inside Every Issue

Community Events and Academic Programs in Houston, TX

7 8 12

Inspirational Message: Looking for Help! Sharnelle Jones

Salvation: Invitation To Christ

Money Management: Financial Responsibility Byron Jackson Jr.

“Go Amber Go!”

For Further Information and Advertisment Services Please Contact Our Office: 713-316-0404 or our Director of Advertisment/Independent Insurance Agent: Byron Jackson Jr. @ 832-754-4379

Amber Curl, a six-grader at Wells Middle School, second child of five. She has a positive attitude and a great outlook on life. Her goals are to one day become a Police Officer or a Teacher, if not both. Her hobbies are photography, hair, cheer, and step.

For suggestions, comments, life stories, or monetary contributions, please send to: M’Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine P.O. Box 90425 - Houston, Tx 77290-0425

Inside This Fall 2011 Issue

For more information about the printing of this magazine contact: Metoryer-Roy Printing @ 713-680-3647

Editorial Staff Publisher / Co-Founder Elizabeth Jackson Journalist/Editor

Kyauta Gajere

Advertising Director

Jackie Jackson

Managing Editor Assistant Editor Researcher

Byron Jackson Jr. Marketer/Editor Melvin Kirks Director of Entertainment Sheila Cortez-Lister Editor

Dr. Earnest Burnett Jr. Photographer

Data Entry/Editor

Raychelle Hatchett Sports Photographer

Grace Gajere Marsha

hill

Ferrell Phelps Keith Tillis

3 5 6

What Love Is! I Corinthians 13:1-13 A Word From The Publisher: Elizabeth Jackson

10 13

Business As Ministry: “Over & Under-Estimation” Dr. Paul D. Landrew

Featured Article: Beverly Myles “Trained For a Half Marathon at 53” Did You Know? Black History

What Love Is? The Bible makes it plain that it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter if you speak in tongues of men, know all mysteries and all knowledge, have the gift of prophecy, have all faith to remove mountains, give your body to be sacrifice, poor, or give all your possession to feed the ppor, but do not have love, it means nothing nor does it profits nothing. Paul is saying, although you have the ability to do and speak all these things, but do not demonstrate love one to another, you are like a man/woman pulling an empty wagon; making a lot of noise. I encourage you today to demonstrate LOVE!

I Corinthians 13:4-8a (nasb)

Love is patient,

Does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;

Love is kind, and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,

[Love] bears all things.

Does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, Is not provoked,

[Love] believes all things. [Love] hopes all things. [Love] endures all things.

Does not take into account a wrong suffered,

[Love] never fails; 3

Community Services and Events in Houston, TX BREAST CANCER AWARENESS The Strength to Endure Written by: Alheri M. Gajere

S.H.A.P.E. Community Center Elders Institute of Wisdom Program Every Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 am - 2:30 pm S.H.A.P.E. Community Center 3815 Live Oak 713-521-0641

Photo Courtesy of livingwittily.typepad.com

Saturday Events @ S.H.A.P.E. Community Center 3815 Live Oak • 713-521-0641 » Community Service Orientation - 9:45 am - 11:30 am » Legal Clinic -Free Consultation 10:00 am - 12:00 pm » HIV/AIDS Education Workshop - Free 11:00 am - 2:30 pm » Capoeira Classes - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm » Fruit & Vegetable Co-op - Third Saturday of the month 713-521-0629 » Free Math Tutoring Classes - 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Crisis Pregnancy Center 16 Week Curriculum - L.E.A.P. (Life Education Assistance Program) The foundation for all instruction is based on God’s Word. Instructors use multiple resources such as videos, prepared materials, practical experience, professional expertise, and personal testimonies. Lessons are given over Pre-natal, Parenting, Loving Choices, Relationships, Advancement through Education and Financial Planning. Acres Homes Youth Association 3511 Pinemont, Suite C-1. Houston, TX 77018 Telephone: 713.688.2114 | Fax:713.686-8109 Enrichment Interest Programs: S.I.S.T.A Circle: Super, Intelligent, Special, Talented, Achievers Etiquette & More for Girls ages 4-17 yrs old. Year round program, meetings are twice a month.

SAVE THE DATE: MARCH 16 & 17, 2012 rettiest Pearls Girls 2012 Conference For more info contact: Sharon Baker @ 4 713-816-7498

This month marks the 25th Anniversary for National Breast Cancer Awareness. Many of us can recall a loved one who has faced the severity of this disease. I often have to pull strength from the Lord to find light in the midst of this illness. However, God reminds me that He is the ultimate bearer of life. He has the power to use life and death to the testament and glory of who He is. It is amazing how one moment can change your life drastically. But let me remind you that you have the power to determine the outcome of your destiny. You may not be able to control what occurs, but you certainly have the ability to control what you do with the experience. You can choose to either let it shape you into a stronger person or you can allow your circumstances to consume you. We are to see each obstacle as an endurance test of our ability to finish the race. In the Bible, Job suffered a great deal and lost everything, but in spite of it all found the determination to endure. He knew that the source of his supply came from God and God alone; whether good or bad. Job understood that in spite of his condition God had a plan for him... just like God has a plan for you. Those of you who have prevailed this hurdle are not just survivors you are conquerors. I applaud your resilience and strength to fight against all odds in the middle of facing what many of us would deem as a tragedy. It takes an enormous amount of potency to see light within darkness. How we survive within our day to day lives and experiences makes us who we are. So, walk in strength and courage knowing that our Heavenly Father is walking alongside you fighting the battle with you. Written by Kyauta, To commemorate those who have touched our lives by their words, their deeds, and through their struggle…We, at M’Bracing Magazine, affectionately honor breast cancer survivors. You are our neighbors, teachers, classmates, wives, sisters, mothers and dearest friends. You make life sweeter, our joy much fuller, our hopes more real, and through you we remember how true it is that, “bad things do happen to good people”. We have seen you wage war on breast cancer, standing frail but still you stand, praying vigilantly to see your child’s wedding day…you continue to press on; hoping for better days beyond treatments, loss of hair, or even the bitter contemplation or horrific reality of having to lose a breast. Even though we may never experience your pain, we see your battles, your grief, your loss, and we wish to acknowledge that you are our treasures. Facts About 39,840 women in the U.S. were expected to die in 2010 from breast cancer, though death rates have been decreasing since 1990. These decreases are thought to be the result of treatment advances, earlier detection through screening, and increased awareness. Compared to African American women, white women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer, but less likely to die of it. One possible reason is that African American women tend to have more aggressive tumors, although why this is the case is not known. Women of other ethnic backgrounds — Asian, Hispanic, and Native American — have a lower risk of developing and dying from breast cancer than white women and African American women. There were more than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. Statistics from breastcancer.org

A Word From the Publisher | M’Bracing Beauty Magazine

alking Boldly in The Lord

Elizabeth Jackson, Publisher

“In whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him.” Ephesians 3:12 (NASB)

t is important that we possess boldness and confidence in Christ Jesus. As I began pursuing my Associates degree in Biblical Studies (ABS) at the College of Biblical Studies, I decided to take public speaking for the 2010 Spring Semester, which was apart of my ABS degree plan. Before beginning my college education, I became somewhat hesitant because in my mind, I thought the odds were stacked against me. I’m 47, a wife, mother of five adult children, grandmother of 11, and an entrepreneur; everything in my life at that time said I would not be successful in pursuing a formal education, but the more I read and heard the Word of God the stronger I became (spiritually, mentally & physically). Before long, I was able to cancel out all the negativities that was flashing before me and was reminded by God’s Word that, “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me,” and that includes becoming formerly educated – at any age. Needless to say, I am over halfway through accomplishing my goal of getting my degree with a 3.6 GPA; how great is our God? First week of school, first challenge: My class for public speaking began at 7:30 a.m. For those of you who don’t know me, I am not a morning person - 7:30 a.m., that was a challenge all by itself; But God! Whenever I felt like giving up, I would hear this still small gentle compassionate voice saying, “You can do all things through Christ Jesus that strengthens you.” Second week, second challenge: My instructor had a firm “stick-to-rule-book personality”. However, I still enjoyed his teachings, by the second week he began talking about re-

search and how he expects us to research correctly and how he takes researching serious. I had prayed to God earlier that week about sending me someone that has a passion for researching information for the magazine. This would be a major accomplishment for the magazine because it would help assure the readers that the information they are reading has crediblility. It was at that moment when he spoke, “I love to research,” I thought to myself, “Maybe I can ask him to become a part of the magazine’s editorial team as our researcher?” Immediately the enemy (doubt) spoke to me, “Don’t embarrass yourself, he won’t be interested in that; he’s a Professor with a doctoral d e g r e e and there is no way he would be interested in someone so little as you or what you’re doing.” Reality grasped me after hearing those words. I sat back in my chair in a sense of hopelessness as if to agree with what the enemy had just told me. I continued to listen to my professor speak; that’s when God once again, whispered into my heart and reminded me of His Word, “You have not because you ask not. Do not be afraid I have answered your prayers”. It was then that a burst of courage overshadowed me. After the semester ended I sent my professor a thank you email letting him know how much i aprreciated his teachings. He responded, “It was a pleasure to be your teacher and if there’s anything you need do not hesitate to let me know.” First door open: I took that statement at face value, so I asked him if he would be interested in writing an article for the magazine. His response, “I would be honored.” He agreed and wrote an article in our first 2011 issue, entitled “The Importance of Obtaining An Education”. To God be the glory! I would like to personally and publicly thank Professor Earnest Burnett for writing one of the greatest articles in our 2011 First Issue and he is now apart of our staff: How great is our God!!! You have not because you ask not! Make your request known unto God and if it’s in His will, it shall be done if you don’t doubt. My brothers and my sisters walk in boldness! Learn to live by: (Psalm 138:3 nasb) “On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul.” Always remember, if God be for you, He is more than the entire world against you and most of all you never walk alone. For He said He would never leave you nor forsake you. When the enemy tells you things that are contrary to the word of God, speak the Word back to him as Jesus did. Jesus spoke to the devil in the wilderness when He was tempted. Jesus said, “For it is written,” three times. Everytime the Devil tempted Jesus, Jesus spoke “For it is written,” finally the Devil left. I encourage you to Adopt those four powerful words, “For it is written”, and use them on a daily basis. Trust me, they work! Be Encouraged & Courageous in the Lord!

Elizabeth (Liz) Jackson, Publisher

M’Bracing Beauty Magazine | Business As

Ministry

Over-Estimation and Under-Estimation: How It Can Affect Your Business! occur. This is at times most damaging because your business requires people to both “need” and “want” what you offer. If there is no desire or demand for your product or service then there is no business. Over-estimation of your product’s or service’s value to your target population can lead to deep disappointment. Over-estimation can be devastating as it involves that which usually appears one way and then ends up another. Over-estimation can also be levied on then personal entrepreneur. While operating under the adrenalin of an idea, he or she is fueled by passion and desire for the idea. The euphoria is sufficient to help them battle any obstacle. The problem with internal over-estimation is that the entrepreneur believes they will always feel that way. There is a tendency to over-estimate the sacrifice required for the long haul. They fail to realize that there will be lonely days ahead when the vision makes sense to them and them only. That is when they will be pressed to feel the passion until the right partnerships show up. As devastating as over-estimation can be, under-estimation can be just as damaging.

Dr. Paul D. Landrew, Pastor The idea of self employment and business ownership for many is an exciting one. The thought of mental, physical, professional and financial freedom can become captivating. Many would-be entrepreneurs are inspired by the success stories published in various media. They are impressed with “rags to riches” accounts from people who seem to be so in control of their lives and who look to be living their dream. What they are not privy to are the hours, weeks, months and years it took for them to get there. They had to live through what was, in order to enjoy what is. Budding entrepreneurs are smitten by the possibility that they too can climb to the pinnacle of success through their own enterprise.

Under-estimation usually happens when you devalue the negative possibilities which exist around your initiative. None of us like to be considered negative thinkers, but when launching a business enterprise, potential adverse conditions must be acknowledged. This is the only way you can be sure you have a comprehensive plan that includes alternatives and contingencies if the best case scenario to make your business a success is slow in coming.

Sadly once engaged, there is usually an encounter with an unpleasant reality. They are usually enrolled in the class of real business 101 where they are forced to study the subjects of over-estimation and under-estimation.

Planning for the negative potential demonstrates your ability to be a broad based thinker and that you are mature enough to handle the adversity you might be forced to face.

Over-estimation is when you give too much credit to something. This could be internal or external. In other words you believed that certain conditions would continue to exist, certain people would continue to participate, certain promises would be kept and a certain response to your product or service would

If you are thinking of launching a business give some thought to over-estimation and under-estimation it can save you from big trouble down the road. Paul D. Landrew 6

Inspirational Message | M’Bracing Beauty Magazine

Looking for Help

“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made the heaven and earth.” Psalm 121 (NASB)

Have you ever had an experience where you’ve gone through such pain, such hurt, such confusion and such stress, to the point where all you sought after was a chance to lock yourself up inside of your own disappointments and shut everybody and everything out? Did you seek out your usual outlets for help – family, close friends, coworkers, the church, or even the government – only to discover that the help from them was not coming fast enough, if at all? I once had a friend who was so despondent over her circumstances until she refused help from her church. She explained, “I didn’t want to hear anything about the Bible. I was too frustrated.” When Biblical help is refused what’s next: Food? Alcohol? The opinions of other people? I have learned from my own personal experiences that food, alcohol or certain “advice” of other people does not help – it’s an escape! If what you choose as “help” doesn’t bring a solution or peace to your problem but simply alters your focus, you may find yourself where I once was: in a position that only brought delays and consequences that further overwhelmed me. But I’ve got Great news today: real help DID come and I will point you to the way! In Psalm 121:1-2, the psalmist says, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.” In this text the word “help” means ‘Ezer’ in the Hebrew langauge, and it suggests Jehovah’s personal assistance for those who can’t help themselves. Wow! His personal assistance is the following: He Provides Security. Ps.121:3(a) “He will not allow your foot to slip;” He Provides Safety. Ps. 121:3(b) - “…He who keeps you will not slumber.” He Gives Protection. Ps.121: 4 “Behold He who keeps Israel Will neither slumber nor sleep.” He Provides Divine Care. Ps.121:.7 - “The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep you soul.” Looking for help in all the wrong places can carry with it a myriad of consequences: consuming alcohol can lead to disoriented thinking, even drunk driving. Some even look to dishonest relationships. What can start as “just needing someone to listen to me who understands me”, can turn into “how did I get into this and how do I get out?” Even turning to the opinions of other people can bring confusion and instability, especially if its ungodly advice. Not to mention the regret you

feel that so many folk are now in your business! Since the LORD is Creator, Maker of heaven and earth, since He knows you like no one else knows you, He understands the deep, inner places of your life like no one else. Since He watches over your life – the very essence of who you are, then why not look to Him for your Help? Take your frustration, your hurt, your pain and your confusion to the LORD! Talk to Him right there where you are! The next time you’re facing conflict instead of saying, “I need a drink!” Say “I need a WORD – a Word from the Lord!” Any “guidance” outside of the Word of God is a decoy, a hindrance, a distraction to prevent you from coming to a permanent, peaceful resolution. I choose to see my LORD as my Help and not a hindrance. His Help bears no consequences. His Help bears no regrets. What you think can end your problem could be the start of a new problem. Look to Him – there’s no help that He can’t help! One of the greatest pains in life is to one day look back and wish you would have looked to the LORD. Don’t live one more day of your life in a state of rejecting Him. Let’s choose today to receive the Lord’s Help, His Personal Assistance and choose today to receive His peace.

Sharnelle Ruth Jones

Sharnelle Ruth Jones is the wife of her wonderful husband, Marcus and mother of 2 adorable children, Hannah and Joshua. She is a student at Houston Graduate School of Theology, a lecturer with the Emerging Voices Institute (AJAMM Ministries International, Inc.), and a Choir Director within the Pasadena Independent School District. A native of Beaumont, TX, she currently resides in Houston, TX Sjones0571@aol.com

The Prayer of Salvation Romans 10:9,10

You Can Receive Jesus Christ Right Now by Faith Through Prayer: Lord Jesus, I need You to come into my life. I thank You for dying on the cross for my sins, and rose from the dead. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving me of my sins and giving me eternal life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Now That You Have Received Jesus Christ as Your Lord and Savior! The moment that you received Jesus Christ by faith, as an act of will, many things happened, including the following:

1. Christ came into your life. Rev. 3:20 and Colossians 1:27 2. Your sins were forgiven. Colossians 1:14 3. You become a child of God. John 1:12 4. You received eternal life. John 5:24 5. You begin the great adventure for which God created you. John 10:10; II Corinthians 5:17; I Thessalonians 5:18 Can you think of anything more wonderful that could happen to you than receiving Christ?

As soon as you can find a Bible believing and Bible teaching Church so that you can begin to hear and study the Word of God. Remember, Faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” Paul D. Landrew

Matthrew 17:20 (NASB) ~Mustard Seed Faith!~ “...Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.”

AFTER YOU PRAYED THE PRAYER OF SALVATION BELOW ARE SOME SUGGESTED CHURCHES YOU MAY CONSIDER GOING TO FOR MORE BIBLE BASED TEACHING AND GUIDANCE IN THE WORD OF GOD. Pastor Paul D. Landrew St. Stephen Baptist Church 609 W. LittleYork Houston, TX 77076

Pastor Bennett T. Cortez Greater Faith Baptist Church 9235 West Montgomery rd. Houston, TX 77088

Pastor Paul D. Landrew St. Stephen Baptist Church South Location 501 Murphy Rd. Stafford, TX 77477

Pastor Melvin H. Kirks Jr. Bridge Crossroad Church 12515 Fondren Ste. F Houston, TX. 77035

Pastor Paul D. Landrew St. Stephen Baptist Church 170 Rittenhouse Houston, TX 77076

Pastor Byron Jackson Sr. Spring Chapel CME Church 23486 FM Rd. 838 Overton, TX 75684 Pastor Henry Thomas True Fellowship Baptist Church 3115 N. Fry Katy, TX 77449

Pastor John Aldoph Antioch Missionary Baptist Church 3920 West Cardinal Drive Beaumont, TX 77705 Pastor Roland Booker God’s True Church 1401 West Tidwell Houston , TX 77091

Pastor Demetrius Moffett First Church of God 911 Main Street Orange, TX 77630

What The Bible Says About Our Greatest Salvation “What has been the greatest moment of your life? For some people, the answer might be their wedding day, the birth of a child, or an important promotion. But for believers, the best experience is salvation, when their eternal destiny was changed. New Christians often have a fervor to share their faith. In time, however, many find their hearts cooling as they focus less on their relationship with Jesus Christ.” C. Stanley Hewbrews 2:1 instructs, “For this reason we must pay much attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it.” “Salvation is God’s amazing solution to man’s sinful condition: it is His gift of rescue - through the death of Jesus- from the penalty of our transgressions.” Charles Stanley

Trained for a Half Marathon at 53

Push-up

Stretching

Sit-up

Arm press

Squats

Running

The Best Years of My Life! Hi I’m Beverly Myles; At age 53, I actually feel better than I felt 30 years ago at age 23! I am the same size I was 27 years ago after I gave birth to my son, Michael. At age 47, I was 5”2”, 215 pounds, wearing a size 18w. Today I am 165 pounds, wearing a size 12 (sometimes a 10) depending on how it’s made! My ideal weight is 150. Hopefully, One day, I’ll get there! The really surprising thing is that “I don’t diet”! Listen to me! My secret is called the 3 W’s: Watching, Walking, & Water! Listen ladies, “It Works!” I owe it all to God!!

day I went into my doctor’s office for a routine exam; afterwards, she wrote a referral for complete blood work. The results of the blood work indicated that I was “borderline” diabetic. This freaked me out! Me! No, not me! There must be a mistake! After I calmed down, my doctor proceeded to write a prescription for medication to help lower my blood sugar. I thought,” here I go again, making the pharmaceuticals richer”. Then, all of a sudden, I heard that still, small voice in my head saying, No, you don’t need that! She handed me the prescription, I looked at it, looked at her and said, What can I do to change my condition if I choose not to take this? She looked at me astonished and replied, Beverly, you need to change your eating habits and get some exercise. Actually, this was not the first time she had told me this. But for some reason, this time I felt different about it. Immediately, I made up

It all started the summer of 2005, after under-going surgery for a partial hysterectomy. I decided after I was completely healed, I would “do something different” in my life. Previously, I had been walking about 3-4 times a week, but on the way home I would stop at Whataburger to satisfy my craving! Occasionally, I watched what I ate; but I really wasn’t serious about it; just doing it cause it felt good. One

in my mind that I would do just that! My husband, Tommy and I “seriously” started walking June, the summer of 2006. Three (3) months later, I went back to the doctor, had blood work done again and guess what? My blood sugar was back down to normal!! I never took the medication! The decisions we make in life determine “who” we are and “who” we belong to. Life is full of choices. If what we’re doing is not working for us, we should pray that we are living in the will of God, then choose to do something different according to his will. His will is in the word of God. Choosing to do something different will sometimes take you out of your “comfort zone” but believe me, it’s ok; especially after you start feeling so much better. I chose to do something different by changing my lifestyle. Romans 12: 1-2 reads, I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you may discern what is the will of God; what is good and acceptable and perfect. I started taking care of myself by eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, taking vitamins everyday, and making exercise a part of my life.

Training was a challenge for me; especially at age 52. But as I looked back over my life, I guess I have to say, “I like challenges”! Challenges remind me that no matter how hard it gets, God has my back! He’ll be with me all the way! Training consisted of 2 days a week sprinting 250 yard laps and running hills; 3 days a week jogging 4-6 mile regular jogging; 1 day a week (preferably on Saturday) jogging 7-9 miles! I trained from September-January, 2011. During training about 2 weeks before I ran the ½ marathon, my purse was stolen at the park while I was working out! It kind of “got me” for a little while; but it didn’t stop me. The next day, I was back out there at it again! That’s how I am, pretty much with everything, very resilient!

Remember, the three (W’s): watching, water, & walking. “Watching” what you eat does not mean eating the same thing everyday! It doesn’t mean you can’t ever eat a candy bar or drink a regular soda again! I have learned that even if you decide to eat bad one day; continue to eat healthy the next day. Don’t decide, “I messed up” I might as well forget it! Eating unhealthy should only be done in moderation; not everyday! This is one of the biggest mistakes people make! Another mistake is assuming that “eating healthy” is “too” expensive! I admit it can be expensive but guess what! Medication is even more expensive. Eating healthy takes a lot of discipline and sacrifice. Changing lifestyles is also very important. I love to shop; but I am learning that even shopping needs to be done in moderation! Less shopping will allow you to have more money in your healthy food budget to afford to eat more fruits, vegetables, and protein! Proverbs 3:7-8 reads “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. We should become good stewards over everything including our bodies. Remember, our bodies are a temple of God. About 2 years ago, a friend approached me one morning while walking in the park. He asked,” have you ever thought about running the ½ marathon?” I looked at him and laughed; he then said,” I’m serious”. I replied, Alton, I’m not ready. He responded, sign up now and I will help you get ready. Alton is a “seasoned” runner. He has run in over 25 running events and is 65 years old! Well, I tarried, didn’t sign up in time and then finally signed up a year later, in August, 2010; was chosen in the lottery pick; and then started training immediately.

Before

On January, 30, 2011, I ran the Houston Aramco Half Marathon (13.1 miles) @ 3.52 min less than 4 hours) which was my goal! Next year I plan to run it @ 3.25 and I will! When I think about the goodness of Jesus and all he’s done for me; my soul cries out Hallelujah!, Thank You Lord, for saving my life, renewing my mind, for keeping me focused on “You” and what You have done, still doing, and will continue to do in my life while I am living in Your “Will”!

M’Bracing Beauty Magazine | Money Management

Taking Responsibility for Your Financial Future Did You Know?

us to provide for our families, limit our debts, invest in our future and leave an inheritance for our children and grandchildren. “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for righteous.” Prov. 13:22 (NASB)

Byron Jackson Jr.

Financial responsibility is a very important part of life. The Lord expects us to be good stewards over the income He allows us to earn. “Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles, but the one who gathers by labor increases it,” Proverbs 13:11 (NASB). The Lord expects us to work and He allows us to prosper in our endeavors. “He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich,” Proverbs 10:4 (NASB). He also has a plan for our financial gains. “For you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who is giving you the power to get wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your father, as it is this day,” Deut 8:18 (NASB). We need to use wisdom in dealing with our finances. This includes our earnings, investments, savings, and expenses. We should be able to live comfortably with what we earn no matter how much or how little that may be. In order to do this we have to live within our means. This requires us to budget our income so that we spend less than what we earn. This will allow

We should also look out for our fellowman. When we meet others who are in need we should be willing to help meet their needs whether it be with a helping hand, sharing information we have to make their lives better, teaching them the skills necessary to live more productive lives or providing them with financial assistance. When we help improve the lives of others we help improve our lives. “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself” Prov. 11:25 (NASB). If necessary we should consult with others who have a better grasp of financial matters than we may have. It should be someone we trust and respect. This may be a financial advisor if our situation allows or someone we know who handles their own finances well and is willing to share what they have learned with others. This is not a sign of weakness but wisdom. Consulting with those we can learn from is a very wise decision and can help us avoid many financial mistakes and pitfalls.

Byron Jackson Jr. Independent Insurance Agent

Did You Know? | M’Bracing Beauty Magazine

John Hanson, President

American History:John Hanson- Who was he?

According to History, John Hanson Jr. was born at “Mulberry Grove” in Port Tobacco Parish Port Tobacco Village, Maryland Port Tobacco, officially Port Tobacco Village, is a town in Charles County, Maryland, United States. The population was 15 at the 2000 census, making Port Tobacco the smallest incorporated town in Maryland Charles County. Maryland Charles County is a county in the south central portion of the U.S. state of Maryland. As of 2010, the population was 146,551. Its county seat is La Plata. This county was named for Charles Calvert, third Baron Baltimore in the British Province of Maryland Province. The Province of Maryland was an English colony in North America that existed from 1632 until 1776, when it joined the other twelve of the Thirteen Colonies in rebellion against Great Britain and became the U.S... The American National Biography lists Hanson’s birth date as April 3, 1721, which in the modern calendar system Old Style and New Style dates are used in English language historical studies either to indicate that the start of the Julian year has been adjusted to start on 1 January even though contemporary documents use a different start of year; or to indicate that a date conforms to the Julian calendar is equivalent to April 14, although the older Dictionary of American Biography gives the date as April 13, 1721. Some older sources list a birth year of 1715. Hanson’s parents were Samuel and Elizabeth (Story) Hanson. Samuel Hanson was a planter plantation. A plantation is a large artificially established foest, farm or estate, where crops are grown for sale, often in distant markets rather than for local on-site consumption, who owned more than 1000 acres (4 km²), and held a variety of politcal offices, including serving two terms in the Maryland General Assembly. The Maryland General Assembly is the state legislature of the U.S. state of Maryland. It is a bicameral body. The upper chamber, the Maryland StateSenate, has 47 representatives and the lower chamber, the Maryland House of Delegates, has 141 representatives.

John Hanson was of English ancestry; his grandfather, also named John, came to Charles County, Maryland, as an indentured servant. An indentured servant was typically a young, unskilled laborer contracted to work for an employer for a fixed period of time, typically three to seven years, in exchange for transportation, food, clothing, lodging and other necessities during the term of their indenture. In 1876, a writer named George Hanson placed John Hanson in his family tree of Swedish Americans descended from four Swedish brothers who emigrated to New Sweden. New Sweden was a Swedish colony along the Delaware River on the Mid-Atlantic coast of North America from 1638 to 1655. Fort Christina, now in Wilmington, Delaware, was the first settlement. New Sweden included parts of the presentday American states of Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania in 1642. This story was often repeated over the next century, but scholarly research in the late 20th century suggested that John Hanson was of English heritage and not related to these Swedish American Hansons. George Washington was *NOT* the first President of the United States. In fact, the first President of the United States was one John Hanson. Don’t go checking the encyclopedia for this guy’s name - he is one of those great men that are lost to history. If you’re extremely lucky, you may actually find a brief mention of his name. The new country was actually formed on March 1, 1781 with the adoption of The Articles of Confederation. This document was actually proposed on June 11, 1776, but not agreed upon by Congress until November 15, 1777. Maryland refused to sign this document until Virginia and New York ceded their western lands (Maryland was afraid that these states would gain too much power in the new government from such large amounts of land). Once the signing took place in 1781, a President was needed to run the country. John Hanson was chosen unanimously by Congress (which included George Washington). In fact, all the other potential candidates refused to run against him, as he was a major player in the revolution and an extremely influential member of Congress. As the first President, Hanson had quite the shoes to fill. No one had ever been President and the role was poorly defined. His actions in office would set precedent for all future Presidents. He took office just as the Revolutionary War ended. Almost immediately, the troops demanded to be paid. As would be expected after any long war, there were no funds to meet the salaries. As a

result, the soldiers threatened to overthrow the new government and put Washington on the throne as a monarch. All the members of Congress ran for their lives, leaving Hanson as the only guy left running the government. He somehow managed to calm the troops down and hold the country together. If he had failed, the government would have fallen almost immediately and everyone would have been bowing to King Washington. In fact, Hanson sent 800 pounds of sterling siliver by his brother Samuel Hanson to George Washington to provide the troops with shoes. Hanson, as President, ordered all foreign troops off American soil, as well as the removal of all foreign flags. This was quite the feat, considering the fact that so many European countries had a stake in the United States since the days following Columbus. John Hanson established the Great Seal of the United States, which all Presidents have since been required to use on all official documents. President Hanson also established the first Treasury Department, the first Secretary of War, and the first Foreign Affairs Department. Lastly, he declared that the fourth Thursday of every November was to be Thanksgiving Day, which is still true today. The Articles of Confederation only allowed a President to serve a one year term during any three year period, so Hanson actually accomplished quite a bit in such little time. Six other presidents were elected after him - Elias Boudinot (1783), Thomas Mifflin (1784), Richard Henry Lee (1785), Nathan Gorman (1786), Arthur St. Clair (1787), and Cyrus Griffin (1788) - all prior to Washington taking office. Q. So what happened? Why don’t we ever hear about the first seven Presidents of the United States? It’s quite simple - The Articles of Confederation didn’t work well. The individual states had too much power and nothing could be agreed upon. A new doctrine needed to be written - something we know as the Constitution. And that leads us to the end of our story. George Washington was definitely not the first President of the United States. He was the first President of the United States under the Constitution we follow today. And the first seven Presidents are forgotten in history. FOR DETAILED RESEARCH GENEALOGY CHECK THIS LINK FOR ACTUAL FACTS

http://www.presidentjohnhanson.com

(Proverbs 25:28) He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

Developing Self-Control

Controlling Anger: Photo by www.dailywordofgodgroup.com/bible-self-control.htm

Steps 3-7- Continuation from Issue 1

In our series, we’ve been looking at building our life on values that last; choosing a standard, accepting responsibility, developing trust, and this week developing self control. This is not exactly a quality that a lot of people want to talk about today. We’re not really into discipline. We’re into whatever feels good, do. Self control is an area that all of us have to deal with in one way or the other. It’s not just for those who blow up. It’s also for those who clam up. Most people are one of two in life. They’re either a skunk or a turtle. When a skunk gets in trouble, he stinks the place up. He lets it rip and everybody knows when the skunk’s upset! On the other hand, the turtle folds himself into his shell. He hides, he cowers down. They don’t blow up; they clam up. Both of those are inappropriate forms of anger. In our society it’s very obvious we don’t know how to handle anger. Violence is on the increase. Crime is on the increase. Profanity is on the increase. Half of all murders actually occur between family members. People are getting angry about little things. It seems like, as the frustration level rises, so does the anger. As the anger increases, so does the violence. As in every other area, God has given us His Word to instruct us in how to develop self control. Anger is not evil in itself. Anger is not a sin. God gets angry, so obviously it’s not a sin. The Bible says that Jesus got angry. Anger is a Godgiven emotion, the problem is in how we express our anger. In the book of Proverbs, God gives us seven specific suggestions or steps, keys, secrets. 14

3. (Restrain) my mouth.

(Psalm 141:3 nasb) “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” We’ve

got to think before we speak because inevitably anger control is mouth control. Have you noticed that you cannot put your foot in your mouth when it’s closed? (Proverbs 17:28) Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

If we will learn to keep our mouth shut we’ll stay out of trouble. (Proverbs 21:23 nasb) “He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from trouble.”

God gives us a good formula to follow in the book of James. (James 1:19, 20 nasb) “This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.”

If we will do the first two, the third one is inevitable, but if we are slow to listen and quick to speak we’re going to be quick to anger. The Bible says it starts with restraining my mouth. That’s the ultimate form of emotional maturity -- the ability to control our mouth.  Some of the things we’ve been taught about anger just aren’t true. Some have said, “We have to blow off a little steam once in a while.” “Don’t hold in the anger…let it out, you will feel better once you do that” That is contrary to the Word of God!  God tells us to control our emotions… especially our anger!

4. (Reflect) before reacting.

(Proverbs 29:11) A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. (Proverbs 19:11) The discretion of a man deferred his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. Delay is a tremendous remedy for anger, not indefinitely. Anger delayed indefinitely becomes bitterness and

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“He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from trouble.” (Proverbs 21:23 NASB) that’s worse than anger. But if we respond im- pulsively, we’re going to tend to respond in anger. When we wait a little bit and let it cool, we will be more rationale, more reasonable. The longer you hold your temper, the better it gets.   Think before we speak:

H = Helpful- is it helpful or is it just going to harm? I = Inspirational -Does it build up or does it tear down?

Article: Courtesy of www.brandonweb.com/sermons/sermonpages/proverbs18.htm

K = Kind- is it kind? What do we do during that delay, while we’re waiting?  We try to figure out why we’re angry.  We try to understand it.  Anger is always the symptom of the real problem.  We get angry because something else is wrong: we are hurt, frustrated, or afraid.

d. It may be in any number of other ways that are inappropriate; if we don’t handle anger God’s way it is always inappropriate!

a. This verse is saying that anger is contagious.

b. When somebody else gets loud, we get loud too.

6. (Return) good for evil.

5. (Release) my anger appropriately. (Ephesians 4:26 nasb) “BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your angry: That verse means there’s a way to be angry and not sin. It is not automatically a sin to get angry.” There are appropriate ways and there are inappropriate ways to get angry. There are helpful ways and there are harmful ways. There are right ways and wrong ways.  It’s all in how we deal with it. Three ways not to deal with anger:

(Romans 12:17-21 nasb) “Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord. “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF YOUR IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. The heart of the problem is the problem with the heart. Matthew 12:34 (nasb) “You brrood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. It’s not my mouth that gets me in trouble, it’s my heart! Jesus is saying that whatever’s inside of us is what comes out. Like a tube of toothpaste…nothing comes out until we squeeze it. When the pressure is on, and we get squeezed what comes out? Whatever is inside!

1. Don’t suppress your anger. a. Don’t store it up inside.

7. (Request) God’s help.

b. We have to deal with it.

c. If we don’t, we will suffer.

Examples: stubbing your toe… waiting in a long line… child runs into a street…

“Don’t get mad, get even.”

4. We must confess it! (Proverbs 22:24 nasb) “Do not associate with a man given to anger; Or go with a hot-tempered man, or you will learn his ways and find a snare for yourself.”

T = Truthful- Before we say it, is it the truth?

N = Necessary - If it’s not necessary, don’t say it? Some things aren’t necessarily wrong, they’re just not necessary so we don’t need to say it.

c. Manipulation: Revenge and retaliation

2. Don’t repress it. a. Denial. “I am not angry. Everything is fine.”

(Psalm 141:3 nasb) “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” The final principle on developing self control is asking God to enable us. In our own power we are incapable of controlling our mouth and our tongues. (James 3:8 nasb) “But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison.”

b. When we deny that we are angry it is being dishonest.

He saved us and has given us the power to become all that we need to be through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

c. God doesn’t want us to be dishonest.

(2 Corinthians 5:17 nasb) “Therefore if anyone is in

“So I encourage you this day to Resolve to control it, Realize the cost, Restrain your mouth, Reflect before reacting, Release your anger appropriately, Return good, not evil, and Request God’s help so that you can be able to effectively be a blessing one to another.” In Jesus’ name. Amen!

3. Don’t express it in inappropriate ways.

a. Pouting: acting like a baby that doesn’t get its way.

b. Sarcasm: hurting people with our words.

Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.

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