Winter 2023

FIREDUP Your Source For Spiritual Uplift

Securing Your Future Ant VS Grasshopper: Preparing For The Future

Strategizing to Win FIREDUPMAG.COM Volume 2 | Issue 4 | Winter 2023

Strategizing to Win

TABLE OF

CON TENTS

9 Ant VS Grasshopper: Preparing For The Future

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39 Letter From the Editor Real Talk 5 Steps To Building Wealth Securing Your Future Funding Your College Experience Upward Journey: Madison Raymond & Morgan Jones Higher Learning Centered Around Christ Maintaining & Strengthening Your Faith While In College Technical Education: Alternatives To College Rapture Ready Iron Sharpeneth Iron Christianity and The Family: A Legacy of Life Strategizing to Win The Ant vs. The Grasshopper Restoration and Repair: Safe Haven Heart Attacks In Women: What We Need To Know Athens, Greece Vegan Chicken Salad: A Plant-Based Recipe

1 3 6 9 11 15 19 21 23 25 27 31 35 40 43 47 49 51

FIREDUP Editor-in-Chief Jacquinette Murphy Senior Editor Shawnetta Murray Interactive Media Director Lakisha Walton Design Director Tameka Lewis Contributing Designers Tameka Lewis Octavia Bradley Lakisha Walton Contributing Writers Jonathan Colbert Alfreda Lockett Evans Tamia Holland Kadeem Jimmerson Keyonia Mathis Cornelia McCowan Zay Mixon Deloris Mitchell Aaronda Smith PAS1 D’Neara Watson Janice Wyatt Stephanie Wyatt

Copy Editors Deborah Howard Jacquinette Murphy Shawnetta Murray Asha Scroggins Aaronda Smith Janice Wyatt Stephanie Wyatt Contributing Photographers Manifest-it Photography

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FROM THE EDITOR

Jacquinette D. Murphy A s C h r i s t i a n s t e w a rd s , w e a re n o t o f t h i s w o r l d , t h e t r u t h re m a i n s t h at a s b reat h f l o w s t h ro u g h o u r l u n g s , w e a re i n t h i s w o r l d a n d a re t o o c c u p y i t u n t i l o u r Re d e e m e r c o m e s f o r u s . N o t k n o w i n g t h e d a y n o r h o u r w h e n h e w i l l a p p ea r, w e m u s t b e c o m m i tt e d t o s t a y i n g rea d y a n d i n t h e p e r f e c t p o s i t i o n t o rea p o u r e t e r n a l re w a rd .

A s a v e r y y o u n g c h i l d , I re m e m b e r g o i n g t o t h e s t o re w i t h m y p a re n t s a n d g ra n d p a re n t s t o p u rc h a s e h o u s e h o l d s t a p l e s o r d r y g o o d s l i ke f l o u r, s u g a r, s a l t , r i c e , b ea n s , c o r n m ea l , b a k i n g s o d a , e t c . t o h a v e a ro u n d t h e h o u s e j u s t i n c a s e w e w e re u n a b l e t o g o o u t f o r a f e w d a y s .

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e a n n u a l v i s i t s t o t h e d o c t o r f o r c h e c k- u p s , i n o c u l at i o n s , a n d w e l l n e s s t e s t s e n s u re o u r c o n t i n u e d h ea l t h .

I n s c h o o l , f i re a n d t o r n a d o d r i l l s a n d s a f e t y re m i n d e r s w e re o ft e n d i s c u s s e d a n d p ra c t i c e d i n t i m e s w h e n w e l ea s t ex p e c t e d i t s o t h at i n t h e e v e n t o f a rea l e m e rg e n c y, w e w o u l d b e p re p a re d a n d rea d y t o re s p o n d c o r re c t l y.

I n h i n d s i g h t , t h e s e a c t i o n s w e re i n s t r u m e n t a l i n h e l p i n g m e s u c c e e d a n d e m b ra c e m y f u t u re .

Th e s e d a y s , w e h ea r t h e w o rd s , s t rat e g y, s t rat e g i c p o s i t i o n i n g o r b e i n g f u t u re - rea d y i n v a r i o u s c i rc l e s . W h i l e t h e w o rd s h a v e c h a n g e d , t h e i d ea re m a i n s t h e s a m e .

S u c c e s s i s t h e re s u l t o f i n t e n t i o n a l a n d p ro p e r p re p a rat i o n . J u s t a s w e l ea r n d u r i n g o u r f o r m at i v e a c a d e m i c y ea r s , w e m u s t c o n t i n u e t o g ro w a n d l ea r n t h ro u g h o u t o u r l i f e t o re m a i n a s t e p a h ea d o f t h e f u t u re .

N o t o n l y m u s t w e b e c o m e l i f e l o n g l ea r n e r s , b u t w e m u s t a l s o b e g o o d s t e w a rd s o f o u r t i m e a n d s p a c e u s i n g o p p o rt u n i t i e s p ro d u c t i v e l y t o p ro g re s s a n d p re p a re f o r t h e n ex t p h a s e i n l i f e , u n d e r s t a n d i n g t h at f u t u re rea d i n e s s i s n o t c o i n c i d e n t a l , i t i s s t rat e g i c , i n t e n t i o n a l , a n d continuous. “ Th e f u t u re d e p e n d s o n w h at w e d o i n t h e p re s e n t .” M a h at m a G a n d h i O ft e n , w e a s h u m a n b e i n g s g e t b o re d o r t ro u b l e d b y a p re s e n t s i t u at i o n a n d i m m e d i at e l y b e g i n t h i n k i n g I a m rea d y f o r s o m e t h i n g d i ff e re n t .

I n t h i s i s s u e , w e w a n t t o h e l p y o u t o u n d e r s t a n d h o w t o b e s u c c e s s f u l i n l i f e w i t h a rt i c l e s s u c h a s St rat e g i z i n g t o W i n , A n t v s . G ra s s h o p p e r : Pre p a r i n g f o r t h e Fu t u re a n d b e i n g Ra p t u re Rea d y.

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Q

Is Heaven or Hell really real? How do we know?

A

R EAL TALK

Absolutely! There are plenty of scriptural texts to validate the existence of both places, in both New and Old Testament books. Various biblical authors support their existence, but if we should choose to focus on anyone’s support of their existence, let us focus on the words of Jesus. He alluded to heaven roughly 80 times throughout the Gospels and mentioned hell just as much! Both places are real and currently occupied. The book of the Revelations offers far more substantial details of both places than other writings. Read Revelations chapters 20-22 for detail. And what a revelation it is! Isn’t it incredible that the Lord created a place for us to dwell forever with Him? He didn’t want Heaven without us!

Q

Why is tithing important?

A

Simple! To not tithe is to rob the Father, as God spoke in Malachi 3:8-9. And doing so will bring about a curse to your life. We tithe because we appreciate God for His many blessings to our lives, and we wish to give back to Him. He promised us that if we do this, He will bless us even more! And if we give liberally, we will reap liberally (according to Proverbs 11:25).

After all, it’s more blessed to give than to receive!

Q

With everything going on with the Israel-Gaza conflict and as a child of God, how do I determine which side to support?

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A

This conflict is one that has gone on for generations and stems from their two ultimate fathers; Isaac and Ishmael, sons of Abraham. From the beginning, God chose Israel as His people through whom the promise of the Messiah should come.

In Genesis 12, God promised Abraham, “I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you”. By choosing Israel as his kingdom of priests and the holy nation, God allows them the capacity for war to defend themselves and exist in that region.

In 2 Samuel 7:10, God says, “Moreover I will appoint a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own, and move no more; neither shall the children of wickedness afflict them any more, as beforetime.” As children of God, we love everybody and pray for them, even our enemies. But also, as children of God, we support Israel as encouraged in His word. Psalm 122:6 tells us to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and they shall prosper that love thee.” If you are asked whose side you are on, simply respond.“ I am on God’s side”. And if we are on God’s side, then we choose who He chose.

Q

What does God say about war?

A

This is a question that has been asked throughout the generations and to answer it, we must look at the scriptures and rightly divide them. According to the Bible in Revelation 12:7, the first war to ever take place was in heaven; between Michael and his angels and the devil and his angels. Because of this war, all creation was marred. War is a product of the pride and greed of Lucifer and as such, not a part of what God intended for creation. Even

hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet”.

Offences will persist, and conflicts will continue until the time of the last battle in which the Lord himself will take part. So, wars are inevitable because of sin and will continue until the Prince of Peace reigns.

Q

Why should women (and men) dress modestly?

A

According to scripture, we are to honor God in everything we do, even with the

way we present ourselves to Him. If God places a difference between us and the world, then there is a difference. And there must be a difference on every level, even the way we dress. Scripture teaches that women are to look and behave modestly.

I Timothy 2:9-10 and Deuteronomy 22:5 describe both ways that a woman is to be modest. We must consider how God is honored in even the smallest of things, even our clothing, because He considers us the bride of Christ. And like every bride desire to honor their husband, so should

the church desire to honor Christ. Take joy in presenting every part of you as holy unto God. He is concerned with everything concerning us because He loves us!

Does God still literally speak to us?

Q

A

He really does! The greatest example of this is I Kings 19:10-13. Elijah was on Mount Horeb and God stirred the weather and the elements around him but even in all of that, Elijah did not hear the voice of the Lord but rather when all had concluded God spoke ever so softly to

him. We may not hear him speak through clouds, winds or thunderings but He will speak into our hearts His words. Even in our times of daily devotions, God speaks through His scriptures. The Holy Ghost also brings God’s word to us. John 14:26 KJV, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. So, there’s no need to worry! God delights in speaking with His children. And when you spend time with God in private worship and studies,

REAL TALK

though this is the case, God has used wars to bring about His will so that creation can be set right. In the Old Testament, God permitted his people to make war against the pagan people that inhabited the land of Canaan and destroy them. This was to establish Israel in the land He had promised to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob so that they could be a witness to His righteousness. Although war takes place in the natural world, it is still a part of the spiritual battle that started it all. II Corinthians 10:3 says, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh”.

Even though the battles are natural, they are still influenced by the spiritual. Jesus himself said in Matthew 24:6, “And ye shall

you’ll find that His voice grows louder and louder!

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5 W E ALT H $teps to BUILDING

By: Zay Mixon

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ant to make millions? Okay, so let me ask you the million-dollar question.

What is generational wealth? The term “generational wealth” refers to any assets passed down from one generation of a family to another. These assets include stocks, bonds, real estate, family businesses, and other investments. (https://andsimple.co/guides/what-is-generational-wealth/)

When we think of generational wealth, we ask ourselves, how will my actions today help my family in the future? You are ready! Which leads us right into step one: 1. Mindset Everything that a person does first starts in the mind. It’s our beliefs and thoughts about life, and we judge our lives based on our past experiences.

Be it good or bad, they affect our quality of life.

Everything we see around us starts as an idea in someone’s mind.

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Think about what you learned about money as a child. What did you learn about investing as a child? Were there money conversations happening at the dinner table? You’re not alone if you can’t relate to any of these questions.

The federalreserve.gov site shows that Black and Hispanic families have considerably less wealth than White families. Black families’ median and mean wealth is less than 15 percent that of White families, at $24,100 and $142,500, respectively. Hispanic families’ median and mean wealth is $36,100 and $165,500, respectively. (https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/notes/feds-notes/disparities-in-wealth-by-race-and-ethnicity-in-the-2019-survey-ofconsumer-finances-20200928.html)

This should raise concerns independent of who you are, but the real question is, what do you think about it? Do you believe that you are more than a statistic? Can you have more or do more and leave assets and information for future generations? With this mindset shift, we’ll commit to building wealth.

2. Become personally debt free.

I say personally debt-free first because this idea has many levels and formulas. For the beginner, consider the Dave Ramsey method, the snowball effect, on becoming debt-free. Here’s how it works: • List all your debts from smallest to largest; • Make minimum payments on all debts except the smallest, and for the smallest debt, you pay as much money as you can on it until it’s paid off; and • Move to the next debt and repeat.

Also, In Dave Ramsey’s Book Financial Peace Revisited, chapter 8 is “Dumping Debt.” His message comes from a biblical angle, Proverbs 22:7: The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Another great tool is Anthony O’Neal’s book, Debt-Free Degree. This is an excellent resource for parents with children. O’Neal encourages parents and teens and shows them how to get debtfree college degrees.

For the more experienced business owners, you can use the concept of leverage, which is the use of borrowed funds to increase equity of return, which is debt. Your business is using debt to grow, is accumulating higher rates of returns and higher capital, and is creating opportunities for the company.

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3. Create a budget and a committed savings habit.

True or False? We all know how to save money. The answer is true, but does anybody want to do it? When thinking of a budget, there are many methods to go about it. A simple way to approach this is to write all expenses down in one column and the amount of income at the top and begin subtracting from there. Some months, the list may seem endless, and we can get discouraged with our efforts. Remember that discipline plays a huge part in saving as well.

So, what are some ways to help you save? You can Google “ways to save money” or “successful budgeting tips” to see the information available and how they work when you apply them.

If you work as hard as possible and still need more money to add to your savings, explore your gifts and talents.

What gift, talent, or service can you provide, and someone would pay you for it? Are you good at explaining how to do things? Do you bake cookies or pies well? Do you have or can you learn a skill you can teach others for a fee? What am I saying? Find part-time, temporary work and apply the funds earned to your savings account as a first step.

4. Become financially educated.

Talk about the implementation of what you’ve learned. Becoming financially literate is the most important thing you can do with your life outside of living for Christ. Everything around you operates from a financial stance. The jobs we work on, our houses and cars, the grocery stores, inflation, oil and gas industries, farming, and education all have common financial principles.

Years ago, when I began my wealth-building journey, the first thing I became was a student.

Today, I’m still a student and will continue to be. YouTube University was my high school education stage. When I became employed, I started attending conferences locally. As my finances increased and I became more stable, I began traveling to different states for conferences. Then, I went to college, obtained various licenses, and purchased many financial products. Becoming financially educated is a decision you make and commit to.

Dr. Boyce Watkins, Jay Morrison, Grant Cordone, Trader TV, Robert Kiyosaki, and many others have great stories. They also have educational tools like books and classes to help you advance your skill set.

5. Invest.

A major problem of being unable to invest is needing more money. Now that you have the savings, you can invest in many ways, depending on your circumstances. For example, if you don’t own a home, owning one should be your priority investment. There are so many options available to you from the simple initial investment. If you are a beginner and don’t know where to start, find Continued on page 20 FIRED UP 8

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or many young people, graduating high school is a rite of passage. It is like reaching a bridge so to speak, because it is a time they cross over from their adolescent years to adulthood. But where do they go once they cross this bridge? Many paths can be taken; namely, college, technical school, the workforce, and entrepreneurship. How does one know which is best for them, specifically? It usually takes time of self-discovery and goal setting to decide which path is best for an individual. And for some, a little guidance and diligent research can help students decide the best path.

A college education seems to be an obvious fork in the road because obtaining a college degree typically means more earning potential and more career options. However, there are many factors to consider when pursuing higher education. These factors include school types and options, college major selections, financing strategies, and college life readiness. “Shopping” for a college can be a bit intimidating. There are a plethora of schools to choose from (in America, for instance). To narrow down the search, first consider school types. There are public and private colleges and universities.

The main difference is the cost of attending these institutions. Public or local and statewide schools have a less expensive price tag. On the other hand, private colleges and universities are costlier. It is usually helpful to consider the intended academic major when deciding which school to attend. This is because certain schools are recognized for specific academic programs. For example, University “A” may be more recognized for their nursing program, while University “B” may be more recognized for their business school. There are countless options for schools to attend. Therefore, prospective students should do what is best for them as it relates to cost, college major, location, and overall school amenities and features.

A second pathway that should be considered is attending technical school. Technical school

learning, also called vocational school, typically offers two-year degrees (Associates) and certifications. The job fields offered at these institutions include business, automotive technology, fashion, cosmetology, and culinary arts, just to name a few. Students get a handson approach to learning in technical schools, which helps them prepare for their intended professions. According to FinancesOnline.com, “the number of students entering trade schools has increased by more than 100% in the last five years.” The advantages of attending trade school include the cost typically being less than four year academic institutions and secure job options upon completing technical school. The jobs that can be obtained with a technical school education are abundant in the job market and include professions, such as welding, plumbing, and carpentry.

Another option students can consider for life beyond high school is going directly into the workforce. Since some students do not desire to obtain higher or technical education, their journey must continue to create the life they desire. And for some, going straight to work is what they choose.

And for others, there are various factors that guide their decision about not attending college immediately after high school. These factors include: college price tags, uncertainty about their life goals, and for others, they decide to work because they want a break after high school and will obtain their post-secondary education in the future. According to the Noah Webster Educational Foundation, “Entering the workforce right away can be a great option if you already know what you want from life and can achieve it by skipping the extra costs and time of additional education.”

Entrepreneurship is such a buzzword in this current society. So many people desire to be their own boss and be in control of their work life, creating businesses that fuel their passions. While the Continued on page 13 FIRED UP 10 FIRED UP 10

BY: CORNELIA MCCOWAN, GUEST WRITER

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any high students dream about going to college. However, one significant challenge many high school students face is how to secure funding for their college education. Let us explore the best approaches for students to take in securing the financial support they need and when to start the college preparation process.

What is the best approach a high school student can take when it comes to securing funding for their college education?

Securing funding for college can be complicated, but with the right approach, it becomes more manageable. Here are some steps high school students can take: • Scholarships and Grants: High school students should actively seek out scholarships and grants. These financial awards do not need to be repaid and are available for a wide range of achievements, including academics, athletics, community involvement, and more.

Websites like Scholarship America, The United Negro College Fund, Going Merry, and local scholarship databases are great resources for finding these opportunities.

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• Federal Financial Aid: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is crucial. This application determines eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. It is important to submit the FAFSA early to maximize financial aid opportunities.

• Research Colleges with Strong Aid Programs: When considering colleges, look for those known to offer generous financial aid packages.

Some colleges are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of admitted students.

• Part-Time Work and Internships: Part-time work and internships can help students cover expenses and gain valuable experience. Many colleges offer work-study programs that provide on-campus employment opportunities.

In what phase of high school should students start their college preparation process?

College preparation needs to start early. The ideal time to start varies from student to student, but here is a general guideline: • Early High School (Freshman and Sophomore Years): Begin exploring your interests and

strengths. Engage in extracurricular activities and maintain a strong academic record. This is also an excellent time to research colleges and scholarships. Start studying and practicing for the SAT / ACT, with resources from Khan Academy.

• Junior Year: Junior year is pivotal. Take PSAT to qualify for National Merit Scholar’s programs.

The right score on your SAT will lead to a fullride scholarship. Create a preliminary list of colleges that align with your goals and interests.

Seek out internships or volunteer opportunities related to your interests.

• Senior Year: This is when the college application process intensifies. Finalize your college list, complete applications, and submit the FAFSA. Additionally, focus on scholarship applications, as many have deadlines during the senior year.

What resources do you recommend students use to find scholarships and financial aid opportunities?

High school students can access a wealth of resources to find scholarships and financial aid opportunities:

scholarship opportunities.

• High School Counselors: High school counselors are valuable sources of information.

They can guide students in finding local scholarships and help in the application process.

• College Financial Aid Offices: Contact the financial aid offices of colleges you are interested in. They can provide information on institutional scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.

• Community Organizations: Many local organizations, including churches, nonprofits, professional unions, and community groups, offer scholarships.

Securing funding for college is a complicated process that requires early preparation and diligent research. High school students should explore a variety of funding sources, start their college preparation process as early as possible, and use numerous resources to uncover scholarships and financial aid opportunities. By taking a proactive approach, students can make their college dreams a reality, regardless of their financial circumstances.

• Scholarship Websites: Websites like Big Future Scholarships, Appily, and College Greenlight are excellent resources. They match students with scholarships based on their profiles and provide information on thousands of opportunities. Appliy is a new resource that does reverse admissions and the colleges apply to you and provide

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Continued from page 10

options for starting a business are endless, it also has no age barrier. In the United States, for instance, there are entrepreneurs of all age ranges. According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, “there are 31 million entrepreneurs in the U.S., which is about 16% of the adult workforce.

However, about 55% of adults have started a business at some point in their lives, and 26% have started two or more businesses. In general, entrepreneurship is viewed positively in America, with 63% of Americans believing that it’s a good career choice.”

Whatever path a student decides to embark upon completion of high school, the ultimate decision is theirs. Success is not a cookie cutter pattern; instead, it is custom built to the individual. Whether someone decides to pursue college, technical school, the workforce, or entrepreneurship, people are succeeding every day, which is a testament that you can achieve your goals. Remember, “success is no accident.

It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” (Pele) Citations: 20 Entrepreneur Statistics You Need to Know (2023).

(2023, September 22). https://www.apollotechnical.com/ entrepreneur-statistics/ Anthony, James. Trade School vs College Statistics in 2023: Education Cost & Job Outlook Analysis. (2023, August 1). https://financesonline.com/trade-school-college-statistics/ The Pros and Cons of College, Trade School, and Directly Entering the Workforce: Part One. (n.d). https://nwef. org/2023/04/29/the-pros-and-cons-of-college-trade-schooland-directly-entering-the-workforce-part-one/

BY: PAS1

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BY: D’NEARA WATSON

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adison Raymond is a freshman student attending Dallas College. Her goal is to become a psychologist or therapist. She found her passion for this profession at the age of 14, after a conversation with her cousins. They would open up and tell Madison about their struggles. She is considered as a true peace in their family. It was at this point Madison realized that she could make a big change with this “gift” that she has and could make it a career.

To be successful in her desired career path, Madison knew she needed to obtain a college education. She started preparing for college in her junior year of high school by making sure she earned acceptable grades and completed specific tasks, so her senior year would be easier. As a result of her preparation, Madison only had to take about four classes to graduate. In addition to her academics, she started changing her friends, making sure she was connected to people who would support her goals. Madison also took advantage of resources that would prepare her for college. Many people encouraged her to keep

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going and pursue her dream career. Whether it was a stranger, her parents, or a caring church member, Madison believed she could do great things in her life. Her support system would continually speak success over her future.

However, attending college was almost not her reality. In February 2020, Madison attempted suicide, at the young age of fifteen. She recalls, “My mom did not know what was going on, so she started pleading the blood of Jesus over me and praying.” A few days later, on a Sunday morning, Madison’s pastor, Apostle Herman Murray, preached “This is Your Hour of Deliverance!”

She felt he was talking directly to her. During his sermon, he said “This is your time to be saved! You have been crying all night long.” Madison went down to the altar and gave her heart to God and was saved. Ever since that day, she has not had suicidal thoughts. Today, Madison is eighteen years old and working towards fulfilling her purpose.

In college, she represents her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She stays to herself and avoids the crowd. People can tell Madison is different when

they start acting out of character around her. If she sees something going on that she does not agree with, she walks away and keeps her peace. Madison lets her life speak for itself, by being an example to those who she encounters daily. Her college journey includes attending school with a fellow church member. They both started a club on their campus called Kingdom Community Club, where they intend to exemplify Christ through their lives and show what true Christianity and sanctification are all about.

When she becomes a psychologist, Madison desires to bring hope through

Christ to her patients. She was prophesied to that the majority of the patients she would encounter would be bipolar and suicidal, and that the Lord would bless her to find a way to include Him to help them. For all that she has experienced and overcome, Madison says, “I make sure to tell God thank you every day.” For her, this Scripture rings true in Psalm 73:26, “My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.”

Her encouragement to other young people is, “Do not listen to what the Devil tells you to do. Every mountain will get higher, but that is okay. God gives us the strength to climb over them.”

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uccess comes in many forms, but there is a common thread amongst all who accomplish their dreams: dedication, perseverance, and a positive mindset.

Morgan Jones has paved her way to a successful career path by pursuing higher education. Morgan shared with Fired Up how she has ensured her success and what others can do to be successful as well.

What motivated you to pursue a college education?

From a very young age, my parents set the expectation for me to pursue a college education.

As a child, I contemplated many different career paths, but around thirteen years old, I knew I wanted to work in mental health. I was aware that my aspiring career path would require higher education and I set out goals to accomplish it.

How did you prepare your mindset for college?

During high school, I realized that I had not taken my grades and GPA as seriously as I should have, and I wanted to start college with a clean slate.

When I started college, I knew I would have to complete graduate school, so each assignment and grade would impact my educational/professional future. I set expectations for myself regarding grades and knew that as long as I stayed organized, all the goals were achievable. I also thank God for being saved because I knew that as long as I did my part, God would never forsake me, even during the trials I had during undergrad.

What steps did you take to be successful in your academic journey?

To be successful in my academic journey, I made a 4-5 year plan. Having a plan and realizing that it’s okay to deviate from your plan (this took me years to learn), is necessary. Also, I made connections and asked questions. My professors gave me so much insight into my career path; they genuinely wanted to help and were there for guidance. I also found myself doing a lot of volunteering, which allowed me to make some great connections and get work-related experience, and it also helped me to learn which avenues of work were not for me. I am also a huge planner, so I always kept a planner and wrote down every assignment, planned each day, and crossed out tasks as they were completed.

I give honor to God for the success in my academic journey because despite taking 12+ hours a semester and working a part-time job, I was always committed to the ministries I was involved in at my church. I never wanted my schoolwork to take priority over my work for God, and I truly see how God has shown me so much favor because of that.

How has a college education helped you with your life goals?

I am thankful for my college education and for God giving me the privilege of pursuing education because I realize that not everyone has the same opportunity. My college education has helped me achieve multiple life goals. Due to my college education, I am now bilingual. I have always wanted to work with ethnic minorities, and now I have overcome at least the language barrier

with Spanish speakers. I also desired to get a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, and my college education opened that door. I am currently a first-year doctorate student. Additionally, my college education has allowed me to work with many individuals that I would never have had the opportunity to work with (i.e., psychologists, oncologists, and other researchers), and I am appreciative of this because I have been able to let my light shine in environments where individuals lean on science and deny the truths of God’s word.

Can you offer some inspiration and advice for others seeking a higher education or even a postsecondary degree?

My first bit of advice is to do your research. This can be through a mentor, finding applicable YouTube videos, or visiting a guidance counselor. Once you have some background information, then start making a plan.

Remember, it’s fine to deviate from your plan, but it is helpful to have a vision. Also, find opportunities for growth such as volunteering and internships. Do not be afraid to volunteer your time as these experiences can help you to make decisions for your future.

Make connections and actually build relationships with your teachers/professors so that they can be contacted for letters of recommendation. Trust God and allow Him to lead and guide you. Do not be discouraged by setbacks; everyone experiences them but you have to persevere.

What is your desired career after you complete your education?

I aspire to be a child clinical psychologist. I desire to work with racial minorities, specifically those from lowincome communities.

BY: STEPHANIE WYATT

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HIGHER LEARNING CENTERED AROUND CHRIST

“E

verything we do is centered around prayer,” says the tour guide during a visit to the prayer tower at Oral Roberts University. In this interdenominational school, all can feel safe attending. The prayer tower stands 200 feet in height, is black in color, and is in the center of the campus as a symbol of the importance of prayer. Also, a flame sits at the top of the prayer tower that never goes out to symbolize the baptism of the Holy Ghost. As a Christian seeking to obtain a higher education, it is essential that our faith is a factor when choosing that next level of education.

In addition to the prayer tower, the history of the campus and who started the campus sparked my initial interest.

Who is Oral Roberts? He was a televised evangelist who was known for his healing ministry. Healing miracles were performed at Oral Roberts University (ORU) in the early years. This rich history, along with their values of an education intertwined with God, persuaded me. I could learn and live my Christian life openly and freely without being ashamed. I could grow in my relationship with God while gaining an education.

“Students come to ORU not to “stay” in their faith but to GROW in faith and to become the Spirit-empowered leaders they are called to be” (ORU 2023). ORU recognizes the purpose of each student who comes to their campus, which is to grow in their faith. As a young person, in faith, it is essential to grow in your faith, so having a campus that creates an environment for you to do so is commendable.

Conduct thorough research on the campuses you desire to attend, which will allow you to make a sound decision and see if the campus is conducive to growing spiritually.

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By: Keyonia Mathis

HERE ARE SOME TIPS: your desired major. Make 1. Identify sure the college you would like to attend offers your area of study.

the campus you are 2. Research looking to attend.

3. Identify their vision and mission. their statement of belief, if 4. Identify available. This is important because it shows you what they believe as a campus.

the campus to get a feel of 5. Tour it and a better understanding of

what to expect. Most colleges, like ORU, host college weekends where you can spend a weekend at their campus and see all they offer.

References Whole leaders for the Whole World. Oral Roberts University | Spirit-Empowered Christian Education. (n.d.). https://oru.edu/

Continued from page 8

a licensed realtor to connect you with a lender who will help educate you through the first steps toward home ownership.

Credit will play a large part in your ability to invest. If you need better credit, start working on it immediately. If you went through step 2 and dumped some debt, your scores would also reflect that.

After your initial purchase of your home, think assets. If you love shopping, that’s fine; think assets. There are two common investor styles: active and passive. In this current market that we are experiencing, it is good to start as a passive investor. Teens can start with small investment apps such as Acorns. A simple Google comparison search on these apps would be great. Placing money in a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is a slightly more aggressive way of investing.

Googling REITs.com will take you to a comprehensive website allowing you to invest passively in different types and smaller amounts, like $1,000.

Now that you have increased your financial IQ, changed your mindset, become debt-free, and have savings, you can begin investing. All these accomplishments should place you on the path to creating generational wealth.

“But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God; for it is He that giveth thee power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore unto thy fathers, as it is this day, “Deut. 8:18.

MAINTAINING AND STRENGTHENING

YOUR FAITH WHILE IN COLLEGE By: Keyonia Mathis FIRED UP 21

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he fall season is an exciting time for scholars to prepare for and head to college. Usually, many people are researching what colleges to attend, doing community service, and obtaining good grades in preparation for graduation. It is important to prepare for graduation, but many are not preparing themselves spiritually to head to college.

College campuses introduce students to new conveniences; students are tempted and are tested on every hand. It is imperative for students to be rooted and grounded in God and not easily shaken in their faith.

According to “Preventing ‘Christian Dropouts’: Helping Students Stay Faithful Through the College Years,” written by Christian Standard, approximately 50 to 80 percent of Christian students dropout of college and stop attending church during their college years (Standard, 2022). There is an epidemic of young people losing their faith and love for God in the midst of getting a college education. Why is it, that our youth are not able to gain a higher education and keep their faith? What is pulling at our young people in such a great way that has them coming back from college unrecognizable? One word: temptation. Temptation is the act of tempting or the state of being tempted especially to evil (Webster, 2023). One of many temptations students will face is the public and private parties hosted either on campus or off campus.

Students are typically attracted to college campuses based on their educational programs, athletic associations, and various organizations. What these students may not realize upfront is the plethora of activities they are able to indulge in such as staying out late, partying, drinking, and the like. The number

one enemy that students face on college campuses is the freedom to do whatever they want and not have to be supervised. Students who are not familiar with this seemingly new level of freedom will succumb to this freedom, which will cause them to start indulging in certain activities. Prior to leaving for college, one should consider not just what they will be able to participate in academically, but also what they would have to fight off spiritually.

One example is the pressure to fit in. Many times when heading off to college, the fear of being alone and not having everyone present to keep them accountable can haunt many. Academic friendships can form based on one sharing the same major or aspirations as you, but students should exercise caution to prevent academic friendships from clouding their judgment spiritually.

Not only should students consider the academic friendships they will develop, but they also have to be careful of the organizations in which they participate. The purpose of the organizations on college campuses is to cause new incoming freshmen to feel accepted, and a part of the campus. Further, the college will offer a variety of organizations and they work to convince incoming freshman students to select one or multiple organizations that fit what they like, or even in which they believe. When choosing an organization, students should ensure that their choices do not contradict their beliefs. Additionally, students should allow their convictions and beliefs to guide them in every decision they make for their desired college, as well as for the organizations they select, and the friendships they develop.

Students must remember God is not confined to a building and their salvation is not limited to their parent’s house, nor the church they attend. A person, with a made-up mind and a fixed heart, can keep their faith wherever they go. It is

possible to hold to your convictions while faced with mountains of temptations.

Despite the mountains of temptations surrounding college students, here are some tips to help them maintain their faith in college: 1. Christ was tempted by the enemy, but He used the word as His defense against the attacks of the enemy.

2. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.

3. The Word of God is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path.

4. The Lord is with you.

5. Rehearse your testimony to yourself and even share it with others.

6. If there are no Bible groups on campus, consider creating your own.

7. Acknowledge God in all your ways and He will direct your path; 8. Pray without ceasing.

9. Fast to keep your flesh under subjection.

10. Be faithful to attending church or at least watching your church services online (if available).

11. Do not allow yourself to be influenced to act in ungodly ways.

12. Do not join organizations that go against what you believe.

13. Your mind has to be made up and your heart fixed to live for God and uphold your convictions.

References: Standard, C. (2022, September 2).

Preventing “Christian dropouts:” Helping students stay faithful through the college years. Christian Standard. https://christianstandard. com/2022/09/preventing-christiandropouts-helping-students-stayfaithful-through-the-college-years/ FIRED UP 22

By: Stephanie Wyatt

W

hen you hear the word, “entrepreneur,” what comes to mind?

Working from your laptop while relaxing at a beach? Or do you think about a better life-work balance by owning your own business? Whatever entrepreneurship means to you, it is a path that many embark upon, hoping to yield a better life and future. Entrepreneurship is defined as the activity of setting up a business and taking on financial risks in the hope of profit. According to MarkinBlog.com, people become entrepreneurs for various reasons, which include: to be their own boss, pursue their passions, fill a need in their community, build wealth, and create jobs. While all these reasons sound positive, it also takes hard work,

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perseverance, diligence, and consistency to be successful in your business.

In the United States, entrepreneurship is rising at an increasing rate. Based on HubSpot, “Nearly 5.0 million new businesses were registered in 2022 – a 42% increase from prepandemic levels.” In many instances, people are exiting corporate America by the masses (the Great Resignation). And for others, the flexibility that entrepreneurship creates for those who are parents, students, caretakers, and the like, is far more advantageous than a regular 9 - 5.

Moreover, “31% of entrepreneurs in the U.S. start a business because they want to pursue a passion.” (HubSpot)

everything that I bring in from my business & not skipping a beat. God has been faithful to me and I’m very grateful!

What advice can you give others regarding owning their own business?

I would advise others who want to start their own business, to always put God first while in business and to always pay your tithes on every dollar that you receive from your business and I promise God will prove himself to you. He will grow your business like none other. It will make you wonder how you are doing so well and where are the people coming from.

You will know that it is God proving himself to you only because you put Him first. That is the only way that you will be a successful business owner.

And this is what Karatina (Karla) Aaron has done in her career as a successful entrepreneur. The owner of Hair Designs by Karla, in Dallas, Texas, Karatina shared with Fired Up how she has been successful for the duration of her thirty-year career as a licensed cosmetologist.

What or who was your inspiration to become a hairstylist? How did your passion develop?

Becoming a cosmetologist is something that I have wanted to do since I was a little girl. I did not know why I loved doing hair; it was just in me! And then one day my father told me that my great-grandmother (his grandmother) was a cosmetologist and she had so many clients and I was in awe; it was almost unbelievable! That let me know why this was something that I love to do.

It was in the family and that I inherited from my greatgrandmother and I love it!

When did you decide you wanted to be a business owner?

I decided that I wanted to become a business owner right after I started working in a salon. My exact words were “I would not mind having a place of my own to work”. And God honored my words.

What has been the greatest benefit of being your own boss?

The greatest benefit of being my own boss is making my own schedule, setting the days and times that I want to work along with taking time off when I need to.

How have you ensured your long-term success?

I have ensured my long-term success by completely putting God first, paying my tithes faithfully on

How has your business impacted your community?

My business has impacted my business community in a great way. Some of the business owners, doctors, attorneys, consultants, insurance agents, and so forth who are in my business community have started to come and receive hair services from my salon. They let me know how happy they are and I feel the exact same about them and their businesses. We can help and grow from each other! God is so awesome and I am so grateful for all of my blessings from God. No matter what path one chooses to take in entrepreneurship, as Karatina (Karla) Aaron can attest to, putting God first as a Christian business owner will result in success and longevity.

In a spiritual aspect, when God gives you a vision and plan, follow His leading and you will find that you can achieve whatever God has given you to do.

For more information about Hair Designs by Karla (in Dallas, Texas), please contact (214) 793-2528.

Resources: Entrepreneur Statistics: Industry Insights. (2023, October 19). https://www.markinblog.com/entrepreneur-statistics/?gclid=E AIaIQobChMI6aL2vIWmggMVWUNyCh2LfQIgEAAYASAAEgI4 8_D_BwE 65 Stats to Know About Entrepreneurship in 2023. (2023, July 21). https://blog.hubspot.com/sales/entrepreurship-stats

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By: kadeem jimmerson

T

here are many uncertainties in life. Uncertainty is so common that many people have said that the only constant in life is change. However, one thing we can be certain of about this life we live is the fact that we will not live on this earth forever. The Bible says in Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Just as sure as you are reading this article, one day it is a must that we leave this earth. Regardless of how desperate one may be to live here forever, this earth is not our final destination. Once we die there is one of two places we will go, either heaven or hell.

RAPTURE READY?

We were never created to go to hell. Hell was created for the devil and his angels. (Matthew 25:41) Hell is a place of endless torment. (Matthew 13:50, Revelation 20:13-14) God desires that everyone upon the face of this earth makes it to heaven. The living conditions of hell are unbearable, but all who go there have no choice but to deal with it. God designed heaven to be a beautiful, sinless, and troubleless place. (John 14:23; Matthew 6:19-21; Hebrews 11:10; Revelation 21:1-4, 16-27) The good news is, absolutely nobody has to go to hell. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) God has provided a way for every single person that has and will ever walk the face of the earth to make it to heaven. The fact of the matter is, once you are dead, you are not done, eternal life has just begun. What a wonderful thing to know that if we live for Jesus, we do not have to fear death. Death is simply a separation from this life to FIRED UP 25

a life that we will never have to leave, nor will we ever want to leave. Furthermore, death is simply a transition from one life to our eternal state.

Not all Christians will transition into the next life by way of death. Jesus made us a promise that one day He will return for those who are living for Him. (John 14:1-3) Jesus is coming again! Jesus made His followers a promise, that there would one day be what we call the rapture. It has been argued by many, that the term ‘rapture’ is not in the Bible, and that is absolutely true. The word rapture is not in the Bible. However, although the word rapture is not in the Bible, the concept and doctrine of the rapture are 100% biblical.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

The rapture is simply the “catching away” or the transitioning of believers to heaven at the second coming of Christ. The Bible never portrays this to be easy to understand and admits that this is a mystery. “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We

shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52) Only God knows when this is going to happen.

Jesus tells us that neither the angels in heaven nor does He, know when He is coming back. Only the Father knows (Matthew 24:36). What is most important is that we be prepared for Him to return at any second. We must evaluate our lives and make sure we are living according to God’s perfect will. If we follow the instructions that the bible has given us and live a holy lifestyle, we’ll be prepared to spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven!

It is beautiful to know that we get to live forever with the man who died for us.

Someone took our place on the cross!

We deserved to die, we deserve to burn in hell, but Jesus died and rose on the third day so that we could have the opportunity, if we accept it, to spend eternity with Him. Unfortunately, there will be people who refuse to surrender their lives to God, miss out on the rapture, and be left behind. All who refuse to submit to the love and grace of Christ are essentially choosing to not go to heaven.

God is such a gentleman. He will never force anyone to love Him. Therefore, He will not force anyone to go to heaven.

Sadly, when those who have rejected the

love of Christ realize they have made the worst mistake ever, it will be far too late. People refuse to serve Christ during what is now the easiest time to do so. Those who miss out on the rapture just may never have another opportunity to accept Christ; for the invitation may be expired. I am glad to know that whether by way of the grave or by way of the rapture, one day, I will get to see my Savior and worship Him face to face!

I

t is very easy to fall under the impression that you can do everything on your own, but as Ecclesiastes 4:9 states: “two are better than one.” Sometimes we need direction or guidance as to where to go in life: a job, a sport, relationships, and more.

Said guidance may require action by the individual or by a friend, family member, or even by God to make an effective impact. Whenever good guidance is given to someone, whether it is one-sided or mutual, it is given for the purpose of benefiting someone in the short and/or long term. The process may not be easy or painless, but it is also not life-threatening; in fact, the result of a good sharpening can be positively life-changing.

“Iron sharpeneth iron…” (Proverbs 27:17a). If you were to look up iron sharpening as an image

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search on the internet, one of the first images that you will see is a blacksmith utilizing a hammer to bend and shape a super heated piece of metal, into a purpose-built tool or weapon. Without the process of the heating and the blacksmith’s hammer, that piece of metal is useless and will most likely be discarded. Now, let us link this to the b-clause of Proverbs 27:17 which says, “So a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” A man could be a boss/manager showing an employee how to more effectively do their job. They may mix in some seemingly harsh reprimanding, but at the end of the day, it is preparing the employee to move higher in the company. It could be a coach pushing an athlete to be the best that they can be with strict workouts and diets. It could be God bringing about a trial in your life that is working to

make you stronger, both naturally and spiritually.

After all, 1 Corinthians 10:13 states that “God will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” In other words, if God gave you the trial, He knows you can get through it and be better because of it. After all, metal can only be heated so much and God knows your melting point. All of the listed scenarios have a figurative point where heat is applied. It is part of the molding process, and if taken the right way, it will birth stronger employees, athletes, and/or men and women of God.

Meet The Shaws The Shaw family, consisting of single mother, Danyell Shaw and her two sons, Ronald III and Jordan, have endured plenty of sharpenings. The Shaw brothers were raised in Missouri, where their late father, Ronald Shaw II, was a pastor. Both the father and mother set holy examples for Ronald III and Jordan, and taught them about God and His word. Ronald III stated that he does not know where he would be without the leadership and guidance of the people in his family, who love him and want him to succeed not only in life, but most importantly, in God. The Shaw brothers were taught family values, FIRED UP 28

such as simple but strong nuggets created by their father, which they still live by today: “Shaws don’t quit”, and “Never settle for mediocrity, always strive for greatness.” It was also mentioned that both the father and mother did not play and were not afraid to chastise their children. Proverbs 22:15 states that “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.”

This can definitely be considered a sharpening between parent and child/children; because while a chastisement does not feel good, being that figurative point where heat is applied, it works to make the child better by establishing a line between right and wrong. Such a sharpening also teaches respect for authority.

The Turning Point The passing of Pastor Ronald Shaw II in September of 2015 was easily one of the family’s greatest trials. To say that the remaining Shaws were distraught is an understatement as it is not easy to lose a beloved family member. The strength of the mother was tested in raising two boys on her own. The family was depressed and in pain. There was even a point where there was anger and questions towards God. Why would He take away such a good husband, father, and man?

The furnace was heated by more than seven times for the family.

However, the teachings that the family received from him before his passing, remained with and strengthened them. Jordan mentioned a stand-out quote from the movie Black Panther: “A father who has not prepared their son for his death has failed.” In the last sermon of Pastor Ronald Shaw II, Jordan remembers his father saying, “If I was to be gone, you have to have salvation for your-

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self.” They had to maintain that “Shaws do not quit” attitude that the father instilled in the family years ago. Both brothers thank God for how far He has brought them, the support from one another, and for family and mentors at Full Gospel Holy Temple (FGHT) Churches. The day their father passed away, FGHT Dallas’ own Apostle Herman L. Murray Jr. even flew to Missouri to sharpen the bereaved family. He was said to have stayed for hours to offer comfort, strength, and guidance to the family, and the family is eternally grateful for the gesture. The Shaw brothers asked whether they believed their lives would be any different if their parents did not care and/or were not saved. Both of them agreed that their lives would be different to a certain extent. While Ronald III believes that he would either be dead or in jail, Jordan believes that God would somehow still find His way to him, even though he would never have the benefit of a loving family. All in all, the Shaw brothers are grateful to God that their parents were indeed God-fearing, and wanted them to be useful, refined, and powerful tools in the kingdom.

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CHRISTIANITY AND THE FAMILY A LEGACY OF LIFE By:PAS1

F

or the promise is unto you, and your

children, and to all that are afar off, even

as many as the Lord our God shall call (Acts 2:39). These words have echoed down

through the centuries since that day that the Holy Ghost was first received by the

believers in Jesus Christ. This gift was given so that the message of God’s love, through His Son Jesus, could continue moving

forward until the eventual culmination

of God’s plan for mankind. It was by no

accident that Peter told those in attendance

that the gift was to their children after them

because the family was the basic unit of social

life and promoted the continuity of the message.

Whether you are a believer or not, you cannot deny that Christianity has impacted the world since that time, and the family has been the

strength of that impact. Mothers have taught

their daughters, and Fathers have taught their

sons the words of Jesus and the precepts of the Bible. The legacy lives on because the family propagates it.

Passing on the Knowledge

From the very beginning, the church took form

and was made up of families, with each member helping to promote and sustain one another

(read Acts 4:32-6:7). In the Old Testament, God

admonished the parents to teach their children about Him and relate the stories of His works

to them so that they would be obedient and live according to His Word. We see this in the church with Timothy, taught by his

mother, Eunice, who was also taught by her mother, Lois. Likewise, Philip the

evangelist taught his four daughters.

Each of them perpetuated the legacy of life in each generation.

Changing the World through Love Though it was outlawed and

persecuted within the Roman Empire

from the beginning, Christianity grew

mainly through the faith exhibited in

the family unit. Their resilience won even more

prayer and the study of the Word for one hour each

accepted within Rome. Even Emperor Constantine

days a week, instructing her remaining children in

followers in Rome, with Christianity finally being

claimed Christianity as his faith (312 AD). The world was changing through Christianity, and the family was the catalyst. With the emperor identifying as a Christian, it was now politically popular to be a

Christian. But many only claimed it in name and not in practice.

The Hand that Rocks the Cradle: The Wesleys

day. She also committed six hours each day, six

studying the scriptures. The message the Wesleys

delivered was strong because their mother’s faith in God was strong.

Leaving a legacy of prayer: the praying example of Susanna Wesley. (n.d.). FaithGateway Store. https://faithgateway.com/ blogs/christian-books/leaving-a-legacy-of-prayer-prayingexample-susanna-wesley

Throughout history, the church’s legacy has been

Christian Literature: The Moodys

to continue in the faith. There are many examples

Since 1894, Moody Press has been distributing

the family legacy: those who taught their children of great men who, down through the years, have

preached and furthered the cause of Christ. Men

like Peter Waldo, Martin Luther, John Wesley, and John Calvin have well-known exploits. But since the beginning of Christianity, the church has

primarily consisted of women who believed and kept the faith. It was the women who first visited the sepulchre and announced the message of

Christ’s resurrection (John 20, Luke 24, Mark 16,

and Matthew 28) and who were also integral in the growth of the new church (Lydia, Priscilla, the Elect

Lady). The great poet William Ross Wallace penned the words, “For the hand that rocks the cradle rules

the world.” I do not wish to discount the importance of spiritual fathers to the church’s growth because the Lord gave the charge to the twelve apostles

to carry on His work. Yet, the message’s continuity

has depended on great preachers and the mothers who also believed. John and Charles Wesley

sparked a revival in England that spread to America through their preaching and hymn writing. Yet their mother, Susanna Wesley, planted the strength of

their belief in them both. She was the daughter of

a minister who married a minister. She endured the hardships of losing half of her nineteen children to death before adulthood. Her husband was in debtor’s prison for a time, and the family home

was burned down in a fire. She found strength in

D. L. Moody is synonymous with Christian literature. commentaries and Christian books. Moody, a wellknown preacher and essayist, had his sermons

printed in newspapers and distributed worldwide.

Like the Wesley family, his mother, Betsy Moody, established his foundation. Her husband Edwin died and left her with nine children. When this

happened, many of her friends tried to get her to send some of her children to relatives to care for.

Still, she refused and was determined to keep them together and provide for them herself. Through all their hardships, she kept them together, and the children saw the provision of God in their lives.

Betsy passed on her steadfast faith to her children, and the world has benefitted from it.

D. L. Moody’s Home Life: The Labors of a Single Mom | Home History | The Heartbeat of the Remnant. (n.d.). http:// ephrataministries.org/remnant-2002-07-dl-moodys-home-life. a5w

Evangelists to the World: The Grahams

Billy Graham is one of the twentieth century’s

most recognized evangelical names. He preached

worldwide, winning over two million souls to Christ.

The legacy of his ministry continues through his

son and others. However, it began with his father, William Franklin Graham Sr., and his mother,

Morrow Coffey Graham. His father and mother

established a family altar from the beginning of FIRED UP 32

their marriage. They would gather the children

gospel. Although he pastors what some might call

committed and never wavered in her devotion

his progenitors is evident in how he preaches and

for prayer and study each day. Their mother was to Christ. Mrs. Graham believed and taught her children that God’s Word defined their family’s

eternal life and unity. Billy Graham testified that

the greatest influence on his life was his mother.

Although his father was a big part of his life,

his mother’s faith and actions had the greatest

impact on his life. He also recognized a mother’s

importance in directing their children to Christ. In his own words, “The influence of a mother on the lives of her children cannot be measured.”

Admin, B. (2023, May 10). 7 life lessons Billy Graham learned from his mother. Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. https:// billygraham.org/story/7-life-lessons-billy-graham-learnedfrom-his-mother/

The Legacy Continues: Age of the Megachurch Though most of the examples I have given have

been women, these women have their foundations in the fathers who raised them. Thus, the continuity of the familial unit in the growth of the ministry was maintained. Today, the church is still comprised of families who worship together and teach

succeeding generations. In my case,

my Christian influences started with my great-grandmother. They continued through my grandmother, then my

mother and father, and now to me.

I have also passed on that influence to my children and grandchildren.

That is six generations of Christian

teaching and living. My pastor is also a third-generation minister of the

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a megachurch, his foundational upbringing from

teaches. In this age, when people expect the church to cater to their natural needs and not the spiritual,

we must adhere to the values that have maintained the message according to the Word of God. It is not the size of the edifice nor the number of

members within; it is the foundational truth that the families within the building adhere to. We must be

careful not to forget the words our Lord said to the

church in Ephesus in Revelation 2:4, “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou has left

thy first love.” The legacy of the church is the legacy of family, and the legacy of family should be to love God.

By: Aaronda Smith

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S

trategy is the ability to plan an attack or defense; it can be the difference between victory and defeat. Any war or conflict can be decided based on the plan that has been employed. Whether or not we desire to admit it, many wars fought on and off this American soil incorporated key players whose strategic movements clinched the victory for their side.

God Himself is the originator of strategy. Everything created each day was created for the benefit of man.

Even after the fall of man, God had a remedy in place to provide redemption for mankind. If a strategy is to work, you must be fully committed to it. You have to be intentional about the strategy, as well as the implementation of it. When we fail to strategize, we usually fail to achieve victory.

Strategy 1: Knowing your Enemy “If you know the enemy and yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.” (Sun Tzu, The Art of War) You never battle without knowing your enemy and how they operate. You should research their tactics, size (number of soldiers), and battle history. This allows you to put a strategy in place that could lead to your victory. You must understand what you are up against and be adaptable. According to an article in The Harvard Review, one of the greatest strategists was a man by the name of Helmut Von Moltke. During both the Austrian-Prussian War (1866) and the French-Prussian War (1871), he was chief of the German and Prussian staff of generals from 1858 - 1888, “engineering the strategy behind the military victories that allowed Otto von Bismarck to unify the German empire.” (Hinterhuber & Popp, 2014) What

made him such a good strategist was his “ability to understand the significance of events without being influenced by opinions, attitudes, and even his own prejudices. He possessed the ability to make decisions quickly and take action without being deterred by a perceived danger.” Although this was a natural war, it was also part of God’s plan because nothing takes place without God’s sanction. We must understand that our spiritual enemy is strategic as well and has at least 6,000 years of experience ahead of us. “They that know their God shall be strong and do exploits,” according to Daniel 11:32, but we must never forget that we have “an adversary that walks about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) So we must be ever vigilant, yet we have no need to fear “because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” (I John 4:4) Strategy 2: Turn Weakness into Strength When you are sick, you know so by the symptoms, but the cause of the illness is often unknown. Going to the doctor helps you identify the cause so you can develop a plan to combat sickness, and then, based on recommendations, you can recover. It is through healing that you regain your strength. To effectively prepare for warfare, you must be honest about your deficiencies (weaknesses). There is strength in numbers, but strength in numbers can still be overcome by knowledge of the territory. The American Revolutionary War was not primarily fought on the battlefield but in places where the British were unaccustomed to fighting. This gave the Americans the advantage. To effectively battle, you must identify

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any weaknesses that would inhibit you in your fight and find a way to compensate for them. In our spiritual battle, we cannot war by the flesh. II Corinthians 10:3 says, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh.” We are in a spiritual warfare and, therefore, must fight through spiritual means.

are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.” As we continue to face our battles and challenges, we need to employ the weapons of God and the spiritual armour for protection (Ephesians 6:10).

God’s strategies always work, and in using His weapons, we never lose!

Strategy 3: Use the Right Weapons There are two significant components to consider when strategizing for warfare. One, you must have soldiers, and two, you must have weapons. Now, the latter can occur in variation. Man’s weaponry has adjusted with the passing of time due to technology. But the weapons of God have never changed, and their effectiveness has never wavered. When strategizing for war, specific weapons give one side an advantage over the other.

For example, ancient weaponry included clubs and swords, but such weapons would not be as helpful during a gunfight. Choosing the right weapon for the battle is very important, but when fighting for God, He chooses the weapons. As Gideon prepared for war against the Midianites, God told him he had too many men. He started with 32,000, but after God searched their hearts, he was left with 300 men to fight 135,000 Midianites. God told them, along with their swords, to make matters more puzzling, to take a lamp and pitcher.

On the surface, this might seem foolish, but that is because “the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” (I Corinthians 1:25). According to the strategy that God had given them, Gideon and the 300 men surrounded the camp of the Midianites, broke their pitchers, blew their trumpets, and shouted, “the sword of the Lord and the sword of Gideon.” This left the Midianites in disarray and confused, so they began fighting amongst themselves. Some tried to flee but were killed by Gideon and the 300 men. II Corinthians 10:4 tells us, “The weapons of our warfare

Strategy 4: Plan Ahead -The Spies at Jericho During World War I and II, the U.S. military implemented war plans under its War Plan Division. “A war plan develops a concept to win a war militarily and politically; it is the detailed ways and means of an overarching strategy.” (Loftus, 2020). War plans included estimates of men needed for battle, deployment, and operations in wartime. However, the critical thing to note about these duties is that the first two occurred in moments of peace when no war was happening. This type of preparation allowed for flexibility during times of war, for, as Winston Churchill said, “He who fails to plan, plans to fail.” Preparing for war beforehand is advantageous in strategizing for the battle and is often necessary.

In biblical times, God often gave war plans to set His people up for great victory, but they had to furnish the faith. When the children of Israel were preparing to take Jericho, Joshua sent two spies to gauge the enemy’s strength. God gave Joshua a strategic plan to follow.

The children of Israel had to march around Jericho’s walls one time for six days and then seven times on the seventh day. Joshua followed the plan of the Lord, and the children of Israel were able to conquer Jericho. God always has a plan, but we often modify it because of impatience or unbelief. Jeremiah, however, said it like this, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11). God’s plan always leads to victory!

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Strategy 5: Move at the Right Time Strategy is also key for many games we play; you have to know what to move and when to move it. Take the game of chess, for instance. Each piece has specific moves and is vital to a player’s ability to win. Each move must be intentional and purposeful. Once you move a piece, it becomes more vulnerable but is in a position to attack. Every piece can serve as a protector or as bait.

Sometimes, you risk losing pieces to lure your opponent into a compromising position. This same tactic is also true when playing the game of checkers. In checkers, the goal is to clear the opponent’s side of the board. To do this, you have to plan each move.

The same is true in our own lives. Every decision we make affects not just our daily lives but our future lives as well. Our enemy is a tactician with years of immeasurable experience. Like chess and checkers, each move ultimately determines whether you win or lose; the same is true with our enemy. Life is not a game. The devil plays for keeps! Every piece in both games has a role to play, and we have one as well. Each person’s role is imperative to the outcome of every battle, so we must be in position. If the Navy is on land when the enemy is attacking by sea, there will not be much defense. In this battle for your soul, you cannot afford to get out of position because it leaves you spiritually vulnerable to attack and defeat. Also, moving too fast may result in unnecessary casualties. When we move strategically, victory is most assuredly guaranteed.

Whether you are fighting a war naturally or spiritually, there is no denying that you must strategize, believe in, and commit to the strategy. As you continue to fight, stay armed, but use the right weapons. Know your enemy and know yourself. Stay in position and continue to receive your marching orders from God. Remember,

there is an enemy, and he is playing for keeps. But if you follow God’s plan, you will always be prepared for strategic warfare. Whether you are fighting a war naturally or spiritually, there is no denying that you must strategize, believe in, and commit to the strategy. As you continue to fight, stay armed, but use the right weapons.

Know your enemy and know yourself. Stay in position, and continue to receive your marching orders from God. Remember, there is an enemy, and he is playing for keeps. But if you follow God’s plan, you will always be prepared for strategic warfare.

Sources Cline, R. S. (1951, January 15). WASHINGTON COMMAND POST: THE OPERATIONS DIVISION. Chapter II: The War Plans Division. https://history.army.mil/books/wwii/WCP/ChapterII. htm DeSutter, P. A., & Dc, N. W. C. W. (n.d.). Sun Tzu, Clausewitz, and the importance of knowing yourself and the enemy. DTIC. https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ ADA440962#:~:text=Sun%20Tzu%20said%20Know%20 the,battle%20to%20be%20in%20peril.

Hinterhuber, H., & Popp, W. (2014, August 1). Are you a strategist or just a manager?. Harvard Business Review. https:// hbr.org/1992/01/are-you-a-strategist-or-just-a-manager Loftus, M. (2020, September 24). What’s in a War Plan? War Room - U.S. Army War College - Creative Thinking about national ... https://warroom.armywarcollege.edu/ Onion, A. (2018, September 1). Was Germany doomed in World War I by the schlieffen plan?. History.com. https://www. history.com/news/was-germany-doomed-in-world-war-i-bythe-schlieffen-plan# Strategy. STRATEGY | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary. (n.d.). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/ dictionary/english/strategy

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VS

THE GRASSHOPPER THE ANT PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE By: Deloris Mitchell

Proverbs 6:6-8 Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.

O

ne of Aesop’s most popular fables is, The Ant and the Grasshopper. In this fable the grasshopper sang, danced, and played his musical instrument while the ants gathered food for the winter. The grasshopper even laughed and mocked the ant for not taking time to have fun and for always working.

Then … summer was over, and winter began to set in. The snow and ice moved in, and the grasshopper found himself without food or shelter.

While wallowing in his misery he thought about the ant, how the ant worked all summer gathering food, storing it for the winter.

The grasshopper devised a plan; he would go to the ant’s house and offer his services, singing and

dancing, in exchange for food and shelter. This did not go well for the grasshopper. The ant reminded him how he danced, sang, and mocked as they worked all summer. Now, they are not interested in his singing or dancing, he should go elsewhere to find food and shelter. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

About the Ant Ants can live from 2 years up to 30 years, depending upon their function in the colony. The words ant and ants are only mentioned once each in the Bible. According to scripture, the ant is “a people.” The ant having no guide, overseer, or ruler,

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provides meat in the summer and gather her food in the harvest: a prepared people who will not be caught unawares. Their survival skills are uncanny.

As Christians we are encouraged to take note of the ant.

Why the ant? 1Ants have special capacities and characteristics: • Ants can carry 3 times their weight.

• Ants are great architects. They build compounds several stories deep.

• Ants are capable of teamwork.

• If rainwater is submerging the ant colony, ants can form a flotilla in less than 2 minutes. The group will float until they find land.

• 2Ants can behave as a fluid, a solid, or become a bridge.

• 3Ants are self-organizing.

About the grasshopper (locust) When the Bible speaks of the locust or grasshopper, except for a few scriptures, they are mentioned in the context of destruction or massive numbers.

Locusts were mentioned 24 times and grasshoppers 14 times.

About the Grasshopper: • Grasshoppers make music by stridulating or crepitating.

• Grasshoppers can devastate food crops Nahum 3:15 There the fire will consume you; the sword will cut you down— they will devour you like a swarm of locusts. Multiply like grasshoppers, multiply like locusts!

Uncertain Times These are uncertain times. Catastrophe is imminent.

All the signs are here. The United States has been made a sitting duck for our enemies. When a nation forgets God, that nation will suffer the consequences. For example: • There are wars and rumors of wars.

• 4The United States strategic oil supply is being depleted.

• 5Over 100 US Food production factories, dairies, and 6chicken/egg farms, and turkeys, have been

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destroyed by fire, Avian flu (bird flu).

• 7China controls almost 100% of the generic medications that are prescribed in the United States.

All these events combined have placed the United States in the most vulnerable state she has been in for decades. As Christians, we must be prepared for the challenges ahead. Prepare spiritually and naturally.

Readiness: Preparedness or Hoarding When the subject of preparedness arises, the word hoarding surfaces. What is the difference in prepping and hoarding, preparedness, and selfishness? During the COVID scare, there was a group of people who went out and purchased items in bulk: Items like, paper towels, toilet paper, bottled water, and many other nonperishable items. There was another group of people who ignored warning about the country being shut down and did not prepare.

The media labeled the people who prepared hoarders. Not so. There is a difference in preparedness and hoarding. One is birthed out of wisdom and the other out of the flesh.

Preppers store items with the intention of using them during emergencies, focusing on practicality and survival. On the other hand, hoarders hold onto items due to their attachment and emotional value.

Overall, prepping is a practical and responsible approach to ensuring one’s preparedness for emergencies, while hoarding is considered an unhealthy mental condition. The fundamental idea behind prepping is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of not only us but our communities as well.

As Christians, “doomsday” prepping is not the goal.

There is no such thing as doomsday to the Christian.

The Bible does instruct God’s people to be careful for nothing, and to always be ready.

Preppers in the Bible: It may come as a surprise for many to learn that some of history’s biggest preppers are some of the Bible’s biggest names. The list could begin with Noah in Genesis 6, who God told to build an ark in

preparation for a global flood that he planned to pour out upon the Earth in judgment. And what was he told to put in the ark? A stockpile of everything that was needed to repopulate the earth.

Next, Joseph in Genesis 41. Joseph had to deal with a regional 7-year famine. God gave him advance warning of the famine so that during a 7-year period of plenty that preceded it, he could prepare and set aside enough to see Egypt and its neighbors through the hard times to come.

Moses also comes to mind. On the night of the Passover in Exodus 12, God told him and all the Hebrew families to have their 8bug-out bags, (a bag packed and ready to go with survival supplies) ready. He told them to “keep their belts fastened, their sandals on their feet, and their staff in hand.” In essence, he told them to be prepared for the major Exodus out of Egypt that was about to happen.

Lastly, There were 10 virgins in Matthew 25: 5 were wise and 5 were foolish. The wise virgins were prepared with oil in their lamps. The foolish were caught unprepared.

Are you prepared for an emergency? A few questions 1. Do you have essentials for emergencies stored in your home?

2. If the mandate goes out, “You can’t drink tap water for 6 weeks,” what would you do?

3. Is there a first aid kit in your house containing bandages, antibiotics, cold/flu meds, band aids, and the like?

4. If you are taking prescription drugs, do you have extra dosages for emergencies?

5. If you must leave your home in 15 minutes, do you have a plan for you and your family?

6. If there is a terrorist attack and you are at work and your kids are at school, what is your plan?

7. Have you and your family committed all emergency phone numbers to memory?

Be Wise and Prepare for the Future There are 4 seasons: summer, winter, spring and fall. It is wise to plan ahead, based on what we know about the seasons. We know winter is coming, and if we want a harvest before winter hits, we need to do the hard work of preparing our food in advance.

As the older generation would say, “make hay while the sun shines.”

It is not crazy talk to say winter is coming while the temperatures are still warm for the simple fact that winter is coming. We know it is coming. It may be months away, but it is coming, so get ready. What would be crazy talk would be to say winter is not coming and, therefore, like the grasshopper in Aesop’s Fable, waste our time playing our fiddle all day.

The same principle applies not only to winter, but to any seasonal occurrence, whether that is tornado season, or hurricane season, or wildfire season, or flu season, or a bear market, or a period of recession, a season of inflation, or a terrorist attack.

If one can reasonably estimate a thing is sure to happen, even if that thing is still one month out, or even one decade out —it is wise and biblical to prepare for that thing, and it’s downright foolish not to.

1 Thessalonians 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.

Citations: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=opHsaJ1hxuc&t=76sfoo 2 https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/animals/ a17925/ants-behave-like-liquids-and-solids/ 3 https://www.quantamagazine.org/ants-build-complexstructures-with-a-few-simple-rules-20140409 4 https://www.forbes.com/sites/rrapier/2022/09/07/thestrategic-petroleum-reserve-is-at-its-lowest-level-since1984/?sh=45eedbe477c7 5 https://americanfaith.com/list-of-103-u-s-foodmanufacturing-facilities-destroyed-under-biden-admin/ 6 https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/apr/28/ egg-factory-avian-flu-chickens-culled-workers-fired-iowa 7 https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/made-in-chinaincludes-most-us-medicines-expert-says-its-mindboggling/ 8 https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bugout%20bag 1

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ochelle Jones’ natural ability to help others is only matched by her commitment to helping them overcome life’s obstacles. Through this article, Rochelle Jones explains how Safe Haven Life (established in 2018) helps one achieve goals and provides guidance to reconstruct, rebuild, and reposition one’s life. As an ordained minister and certified life coach, Ms. Jones has helped many rebuild one brick at a time, using tools to improve and reconstruct plans for the future.

What is Safe Haven Life?

Safe Haven Life is a ministry space that the Lord FIRED UP 43

has given me to reach beyond the pulpit, which provides a safe place for Christians to be poured into in the area of mental health. As a lay counselor and life coach, I get to walk alongside people and listen, help, support, and at times offer advice and suggestions on how to move forward in life.

What services are available through Safe Haven

Life?

Safe Haven Life provides one-on-one coaching, ebooks, speaking to women, seminars, (and soonto-be, group coaching), to those experiencing life challenges and need support, encouragement, and

empowerment to move forward to the things to which God has called us to do.

How did you develop this organization and what led you to create this organization? (i.e., your qualifications and life experiences) I have experienced all types of grief and loss.

I have been a caregiver for loved ones and family for most of my life. God has given me the heart of a servant, along with the gift of being a help. That gift was nurtured through growing up with a mother who was very sick for most of my childhood until God called her home. God brought me through several areas of trauma as well as divorce. I have had the privilege since childhood not only going through tragedies but also walking alongside others who go through difficult times. I am both a nurturer, advocate, and cheerleader for people. I have also had opportunities to serve God and His people; on a more positive note, through the areas of different types of ministries: from armor bearing to counseling to preaching.

How does faith play a role in personal recovery?

For Christians, our faith is our means of recovery.

Our faith actually determines how we recover. As Christians, we do not have to grieve as those who have no hope (I Thessalonians 4:13). We also are more than conquerors when we face challenges unrelated to grief. We are never alone and there is nothing we can experience that God can not bring us through well. We have a better chance of constant victories through Christ Jesus who loves us unconditionally. I shudder to think what type of life I would be living if I did not surrender and allow God to bring me through His way.

How to overcome and reposition yourself after failure? (i.e., low self-esteem, relationship issues/impacts, job loss, grief, etc.)

We all come to a place in life where we have to refresh, pivot, access, and reset, and not

necessarily in that order. However, at times we need to lean on someone to help us through difficulties in life. For some of us, overcoming the negative opinions of others takes years to work through. However, we must get to a place where we see ourselves the way God sees us. He is the God of all comfort, and He never gets tired of us leaning on Him for everything, including our emotions. We are built to reposition ourselves after failure and tragedy, but it can take longer when we do not have the right people in our lives to help us through it. That does not always mean the people in our lives are bad, they are just not equipped to handle what we have going on in every situation.

What principles did you possess in life that empowered you to overcome?

I love to encourage my clients to fight while we build (Nehemiah 4:17). I also stay surrounded by those who help me live out the things that God has called me to. We must use our accountability to help frame how to navigate life. In addition, my mother and grandparents instilled hard work and dedication to building a good life for myself in me.

They taught me how to create habits that serve me with the first habit being to serve God. I know people are taught against religion, but God’s church has saved my life. Even though we are the church, faithful attendance and being surrounded by those who believe the way that I do, share my principles, and have similar worship has been a blessing. It worked for my grandmother and so I am now a witness that it works for me.

What words of encouragement can you share to help others overcome?

To the believers, never forfeit the rewards that God offers when we are overwhelmed. God is beautiful for situations and those that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He is also concerned about not only the big things that we face in life but, the little things.

He can and will perfect everything that concerns me (Psalm 138:8) There is nothing wrong with FIRED UP 44

allowing the right spiritual people to help us “do life”. We do not only need friends through the good times, but we also need encouragement through the bad times. When there is no counsel the people fall (Proverbs 11:14). No matter how bad things look and feel at the moment you will not always feel this way, if you keep going.

Those who come to me who are not believers, I listen, but I will always offer Jesus. My life’s roles are all based on biblical principles. I have experimented with both my life without Him and with Him, and I have discovered Him to be a friend.

I have less scars because I made the choice to follow His instructions. My ways and man’s wisdom have failed me every time, so I rather save myself from extra heartaches and let Him teach my hands to fight (Psalm 18:34). Safe Haven Life emphasizes the phrase that ‘if you are still breathing, you do have a next’. With the Lord’s help, we can get back to living after challenges and tragedies and achieve our God-given purposes.

How do you help others formulate a plan for success?

Through active listening skills I have developed both through my experiences and formal training, I help my clients access their current state and break down what it would take for them to get to where they are now and where they would like to be.

How do you know that you need to seek assistance to improve/rebuild?

You can know you need assistance in many ways, when you want to speak to someone about a challenge or goal and you feel you can not share it with your loved ones, then that can be an indication that help is needed. This area of life coaching is for those clients who have an awareness that they want to move forward in life, but need support. In life coaching, the client drives the relationship because they have an unction that there is more that they want to do in life, and need help meeting those goals.

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How do you know this type of support is needed?

There are some things in life we bounce back from with ease, and some we do not; therefore support is needed. Whenever we are in need of outside support, such as unbiased listeners, or Christian human shields who can listen and assist us in making sober decisions, then these are instances when a Christian mental health coach can help.

Many times, we know that we want help and support, when we become too overwhelmed to move forward on our own, or just need someone to talk us through it; then that is the time to reach out. There may not always be a problem in life, but there can be some transitions through which we need help navigating.

How do you know when the goals of support have been met? (I.e., a person is now able to stand on their own) Depending on the goal the client is trying to meet, I know that the client is ready to off-board when they have moved from where they were when they started with my program, to where they want to be per goal. In the beginning, we go over what achievable goals would look like for them. We measure the success of the relationship when they get to the place they want to be. From a lay counselor perspective, my job is to support the client to a place of stability, whether that is through counseling or collaboration with a licensed therapist. From a mental health coaching perspective, the client is at a minimal level of stability, but needs help moving forward.

Heart Attacks in Women: What We Need to Know

By Alfreda Alfreda Lockett By: LockettEvans Evans

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he leading cause of death in the U.S. is heart disease. As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 695,547 persons die each year due to this condition, based on 2021 data, with one person dying every 33 seconds.

The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which causes decreased blood flow to the heart, leading to a heart attack or what is also known as a myocardial infarction. More than 805,000 people experience a heart attack each year. Heart attacks occur when specific areas of the heart muscle cannot get the oxygen and nutrients needed to function correctly, causing damage or death in that portion of the heart.

The cause of a heart attack is mainly the buildup of bad cholesterol (LDL) or plaque in the coronary arteries. The symptoms include discomfort in the chest area, pressure or tightness, pain that radiates to the arm, back, or neck region, usually on the left side, excessive sweating, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, and dizziness. While some of these symptoms may occur in both men and women, variations in the intensity and severity of symptoms occur based on an individual’s gender. Portrayals of a heart attack on TV or in the movies often show a man clutching his chest, experiencing excruciating pain, and falling to the ground or floor. However, a heart attack in a woman may be less distinct, causing the woman to mistake it for acid reflux, the flu, or normal aging.

The American Heart Association warns that more women may experience symptoms less often associated with heart attacks, such as shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back or jaw pain. They may also experience extreme fatigue and fainting.

Their symptoms may be vague and confusing. Women may feel more pressure in the back or experience a sensation that a rope is tied around them. Or they may have heart palpitations, coughing, or loss of appetite. However, although the symptoms may be more subtle in a woman, they can be just as deadly if not managed promptly and correctly.

Heart attacks are twice as common throughout life in men than in women. This fact persists even after traditional risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, body mass index, and physical activity are accounted for. (Harvard Health Publishing. 2016).

Also, it was once accepted that pre-menopausal women were protected from heart attacks by estrogen, the female sex hormone. However,

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that concept is now being scrutinized; ongoing research may provide new information. (JAMA, 2016).

Both men and women experiencing heart attack symptoms must call for help and get to a medical facility as quickly as possible. Dialing 911 in America summons paramedics who can expeditiously assess the symptoms, begin the necessary steps to treat the condition, and quickly get clients to the nearest medical facility. The sooner the condition is diagnosed and treated, the less damage to the heart muscle, and the better the outcome.

Science has only recently started to explore the specific characteristics of heart attacks in women. Both men and women must be aware that the differences exist, and each gender should respond appropriately should the symptoms occur. According to Baylor Heart Health, “Though the symptoms of a Heart Attack may vary, the answer never does – Call 911 immediately. Pressure, tightness, pain, or squeezing in the chest or arms may be signs of a heart attack.”

References: American Heart Association (2020, March 6). Changing the Way We View Heart Attack Symptoms in Women. American Heart Association News. Retrieved September 29, 2023, from https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/03/06/changing-theway-we-view-womens-heart-attack-symptoms Baylor Scott and white hospital (n.d.). Https://www.

Bswhealth.Com/heart-and-vascular-hospital/patienteducation/womens-heart.Retrieved September 29, 2023, from https://www.bswhealth.com/heart-andvascular-hospital/patient-education/womens-hearthealth cdc.gov (2023, May 15). Women and Heart Disease.

CDC.gov. Retrieved September 29, 2023, from https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/03/06/ changing-the-way-we-view-womens-heart-attacksymptoms Harvard Health Publishing (2016, November 8, 2016).

Research we’re watching. Heart Health. Retrieved 10/21/2023, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/hearthealth/throughout-life-heart-attacks-are-twice-as-common-inmen-than-women FIRED UP 48

GREECE

Athens A

thens, Greece is known for many things; some of which is that it is the national capitol of Greece.

In addition, Athens is known for its historic and classical history, so much so that it has been named the origin of Western civilization. The City of Athens was named after the Greek goddess, Athena, and is known for the birthplace of the origin of civilization’s classical, intellectual and artistic ideas. Athens is sometimes referred to as the former capitol of the Classical World. It hails 20 Greek islands.

Brief Biblical history One of the main travel points of Athens, Greece is Acropolis. Acropolis is referred to as High City, a citadel located upon a hill. This landmark of Athens derived its name from the Greek work Akro, which means ‘high on the edge’ and Polis, meaning ‘City’. According to Greek history, it was at Acropolis that the Apostle Paul preached the sermon widely named as “To The Unknown God” (Acts 17:22-23) Recent history and facts: Athens, Greece was named one of the top places to visit in 2023 by TripAdvisor.com. WillFlyForFood.net named Athens as a top place to visit for exquisite cuisine in 2023.

On December 1, 2023, ABC News and The Associated Press both reported that Britain’s King Charles III wore a pattern of Greek flags (which included Athens), in an effort to draw attention during recent London-Athens diplomatic debates/spats at a climate summit in Dubai.

Tourist Tips: Just in case Athens, Greece is on your bucket-list, then please note that there are at least 32 top tourist attractions there. Some of the top favored sights to explore are as follows: 1. Climb to Acropolis; 2. Acropolis Museum; 3. Hadrian’s Library;

4. Edem Beach (where you may dine at Edem Taverna); 5. Eat and Souvlaki; 6. Visit the Benaki Museum; 7. Watch the Changing of The Guard; 8. Order custom-made Greek sandals; 9. Watch the sunset at Lycabettus Hill; 10. Visit Athens’ National Archaeological Museum; 11. Join a walking food tour; 12. Visit the Parliament Building; 13. Enjoy a 1-day sailing trip; 14. Explore Athens central marketplace; 15. Eat gyros; 16. Visit the Temple of Poseidon; 17. Take a scroll through Ancient Agora Athens has been visited as a get-away destination for honeymoons, family trips, as well as by travel enthusiasts who provide great travel details, and photography. Whatever your reason or interest is in Athens, Greece, awesome adventures await you!

References: Brittanica.com goatsontheroad.com solosophie.com TripAdvisor.com viator.com visitAthens.gr WillFlyForFood.net https://travelingthruthebibleshow.com/travel-athens-greece-the-acropolis-apostle-paul-footsteps-acts-1722-23/

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Vegan Chicken Salad: A Plant-Based Recipe BY: ALFREDA LOCKETT EVANS

Some may be reluctant to experience vegan food because they fear stepping away from the familiar and trying something new. The word vegan may even sound foreign and different.

Today’s recipe is based on the familiar chicken salad, with only three main substitutes for the familiar ingredients. This salad is full of flavor and bursting with nutrition. It substitutes a plant-based product, chick’n, for traditional chicken, uses a mayonnaise substitute, and incorporates a product called Tofu.

Brand names are specified in this recipe simply because these are the products the author prefers. Other brands may work as well or better, depending upon the user’s taste.

Individual choices are encouraged. All ingredients in this recipe are widely available at major supermarkets.

The recommended chicken substitute is a plant-based product made by *Tofurky. It is fully cooked, lightly seasoned, and ready for use. One package contains a whopping 19g of protein, only 1g of added sugar, 360 mg. of sodium, and 10g of total fat.

The suggested mayonnaise is a plant-based or vegan mayonnaise by *Hellman’s. It has the same great taste as traditional *Hellman’s but contains 8g of total fat, rather than 10g in the traditional product. It has 0 cholesterol and 100mg. of sodium per serving. Made from canola oil, it has less than 2% sugar and contains no eggs or other animal products.

No salt is needed, as the chick’n substitute is lightly seasoned. *Mrs. Dash’s Original Seasoning blend is encouraged if additional seasoning is desired. This product combines 21 different spices and other ingredients, is 100% salt-free, and contains no monosodium glutamate (MSG).

Tofu may be the most unfamiliar ingredient in this recipe. Frequently asked questions about tofu are: what is it, is it healthy, and what does it taste like? Tofu is made from dried soybeans, soaked in water, crushed, and boiled. It is then separated into solid pulp and

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milk. Calcium, magnesium chloride, and sulfates are added to separate the curds from the whey. Tofu is good for us because it contains all the essential amino acids the body needs. It is rich in minerals, vitamins, calcium, manganese, iron, and vitamin A. Tofu has a very bland taste, however, this is one of its greatest advantages. It takes on the flavor you choose by absorbing flavors from spices or sauces in the recipe.

Tofu comes in a tub or plastic wrapping and is usually covered with water to keep it fresh.

Before it can be used, the water must be poured off and expelled from the tofu. Expressing the water is done easily by wrapping it in paper towels, then placing a heavy object like a book on the wrapped tofu for 15-20 mins. Most of the water will be removed in that period. Tofu presses are available for purchase if desired.

Ingredients: • 2 Pkg. *Tofurky Chick’n, moderately chopped • Chopped celery (about four stalks) • Chopped green onions (about 2-3 stalks) • ½ block extra-firm Tofu (drained, pressed, then crumbled) • *Hellman’s Vegan Mayonnaise (about 4 tbsp.)

• Red and/or green grapes, halved (about 10-12) • Walnut pieces, pecan pieces, and/or slivered almonds (to taste) • Dill Pickle relish or sweet pickle relish to taste (your choice). (Using the type with NO high fructose corn syrup is recommended if sweet pickle relish is chosen. HFCS adds an unnatural amount of fructose to your diet, causing health issues in excessive amounts.)

• 1-2 tbsp. *Mrs. Dash Original Blend (optional) Like many Vegan recipes, this is a salad you can personalize by increasing or decreasing the ingredients based on your taste. It is quick and easy and can be prepared in about 20 minutes.

All ingredients should be mixed well, then refrigerated for 10-15 mins. to allow the ingredients to blend and add a slight chill. Serve with crackers or on wheat toast. Happy and healthy eating. *Disclaimer: Brands listed in this recipe are for taste only and are not an endorsement by nor affiliated with Full Gospel Holy Temple Church, Inc.

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NEXT ISSUE What Is Next?

There’s rumbling in the spirit and a deep anticipation that the world is on the cusp of another great happening - something unbeknownst to mankind. Could it be that the Bible is coming alive before our very eyes? Are you a wheat or a tare? Has the separation already begun? Will we soon behold the redeemer?

The next issue aims to unveil how the word of God will be the key to the Christian’s survival of the world’s next.

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CALL TO SALVATION Dear friend, Did you know that God loves you?

He truly does and wants you to be with Him forever. I know sometimes we feel all alone and wonder if He really cares because of the things going on in our lives, but I assure you He is watching and waiting for you to talk to Him. In Hebrews 4:16 the Bible says, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need”. He cannot abide your sins, but he is merciful and will forgive you of them if you ask. You do not have to keep living in sin because His love is forgiving, and His grace covers a multitude of sin. Perhaps this is the kind of love you have been looking for but just looking in the wrong places. If this is you, here is a prayer you can pray, and we guarantee that God will hear you.

Prayer: Lord, I am sorry for all the wrongs I have done. Forgive me of all my sins and come into my life and save me. Fill me with your Holy Spirit that I might live for you forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

That is all it takes, and he will come in and help you find the joy and love you have been missing.

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