FIRED UP
Editor-in-Chief
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FROM THE EDITOR
As a child, I enjoyed creating masterpieces out of playdough. Using several colors, I made statues, prints of my hands, and replicas of food items. My creations existed until my parents or teacher at school said, okay, time to clean up. I would roll the playdough back into its original pressed round state and place it back in the container until next time. When I became older and went to summer camp, I had a white powder that, with water, became just like the playdough. I only had a certain amount of time to create my shape and place it into a cast to permanently harden and transform it into a new masterpiece. When it was time to clean up, this design stayed in its new shape, and the only thing to clean up was the excess.
Weekly, in churches, tears are shed, hands are lifted, and prayers of repentance are uttered and renewed. Still, some congregants find themselves like playdough returning to their original state when facing the ills and vices of this present world outside the church walls because, at their core, they are not transformed.
Remember, II Corinthians 5:17 states, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
To truly change, one must accept Christ, be filled with His power, follow on to know the Lord, and live according to His Holy word. This power will allow one to stand up to evil influences, resist the yearnings of the flesh to partake, and not cower, embracing what one once cast off because one is powerless, unregenerate, and ill-equipped to navigate the world's terrain.
This issue aims to inform and equip today's citizens with a deeper understanding of how to walk in this world with real transformative power with features like In Power Spirit and Truth, They Look Like Us, and The Transformation of the Heart, in addition to other life application articles like Navigating the Corporate Landscape and Virtual Vigilance.
As you flip and scroll through this publication, we pray that you understand the importance of living a powerful, transformed life in this world.
Jacquinette D. Murphy
“
Fired Up: Growing Together in Love - Volume 2 Issue 1: This volume is an inspiration to all married couples. I love this cover and their story.
- C. Tolliver
“
I love these magazines!!! They are quite informative and interesting. I have learned so much from all of the different stories, questions and testimonies. I also like the different recipes and travel information. I cannot say enough about how much I am enjoying all of the issues. Blessings go out to all that had and have a hand in creating such a magazine.
- C. Tolliver
READER TESTIMONIALS
REAL TALK
AQ I am married, but since becoming married, I have dedicated my life to the Lord. My spouse, however, is not saved. How do I deal with my spouse now since we have differing beliefs?
You deal with your spouse the same way you always have, with love. The Bible states in Jeremiah 31:3, "The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee." Love is the key to deliverance, and love will allow room for God to work and bring your spouse to deliverance. Continue to be patient with and pray for your spouse. Remember, love is patient and kind, so continue to show love; be patient and continue to live holy. The believing wife brings holiness to her marriage; likewise, the believing husband brings holiness to his marriage. Continue to serve the Lord, live holy, show love, and allow God to handle the rest.
Q I am a new college student, and I am saved and Holy Ghost-filled. How do I navigate peer pressure on my college campus?
A
Peer pressure is such a real and weighty thing. Nobody wants to feel like an outcast, but you are not a reject; you are a child of God. The Bible says, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:" (1 Peter 2:9).
You have been called out and set apart for His use. Now, you have to allow God to be a light in your life and let Him use you to put pressure on your peers to answer the call of God. The enemy wants you to feel like you are alone, but you are not. It may seem cliche, but Jesus is with you at all times. There is a reason God has placed you on that campus at this time, and that is so you can continue to be the light.
QWhat is the suggested approach I should take to witnessing to family members who know I am saved, yet they seem to take issue with my stand for holiness?
A
Witnessing to family can be challenging because they knew you before you came to the Lord, and sometimes it is hard for people to let go of the BC (before Christ) you. Mark 6 shows us that even Jesus struggled to reach those people in His hometown. They made remarks such as, "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him."
Sometimes, those who knew us before we were changed struggle seeing the new creature we have become. They still see you as that alcoholic, drug addict, or profane person you once were. Sometimes, the best witness is a life lived. Sometimes, we just have to live holy in front of them and let our lives be a witness. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16).
QI want to become more active in ministry. How can I know what the Lord would have me do to advance His kingdom?
AIt is excellent to hear you want to be more active in ministry! The main thing He has called us all to do is be a witness. Acts 1:8: "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." Being a soul winner is your greatest calling because you are building the kingdom of God. If you want to get active in winning the lost for Christ, you must seek the Lord for His guidance. You will find your place in the body of Christ as you continue to pray, live a godly life, and be a witness for Him. Your gift shall manifest itself as you do so. Proverbs 18:16 declares, “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.”
QI have a coworker at my job who often tries to argue with me about my Christian beliefs. How do I deal with this? I do not want to make the wrong decision or reaction because I do not want to risk losing my job or not representing Christ in the right way.
AQuestions like this are always interesting because it is understandable to want to take every opportunity to witness; however, as Solomon says, "There is a time and season for all things" in Ecclesiastes 3:1. I think this is where wisdom comes into play. Proverbs 26:45 states, "Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit." If the person is not really interested in hearing about Christ and is solely in it for an argument, it is unfruitful to continue talking to them. Work is not the best place to get into a debate with someone about the scriptures and your faith. But there may be other occasions where God will open the door for you to witness to someone who has genuine questions about your faith, and you will have to seize the opportunity. We have to remember that sometimes it is ok to dismiss a fool.
QWhat can I do when I am under spiritual attack?
ARejoice! I am not being tongue-incheek here. James 1:3 states, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
As long as we are in this world, we are going to have spiritual battles, but Jesus said we could be of good cheer because He has already overcome the world. We must remember that we have all the tools we need to be successful in battle, as is evident in Ephesians 6:10-18. Buckle your chin strap, tighten up your shield, and get a grip on your sword because the victory will come, but you have to fight it out. Here
are some strategies to combat spiritual attack(s):
• Make sure to always guard your heart and mind, especially since the enemy will attempt to set up wars within the heart and mind;
• Realize that the enemy has a goal to interrupt/stop your spiritual walk with God;
• Use the spiritual weapons God has provided: prayer, fasting, reading your Word, as well as using the “whole armour of God,” as stated in Ephesians 6:10-18
QWho can receive the Holy Ghost?
AIn Acts 2:17, in the prophecy made by Joel on the day of Pentecost, Peter proclaims that God would pour out His spirit on all flesh. Even today, we are witnessing this yet being fulfilled. Some would say the Holy Ghost was just for the 12 disciples, meaning the Apostles; however, there were more than 12 people in the upper room who were filled with the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost. Others may think it is only for the Jews, but in Acts 10, the Holy Ghost fell on a Gentile household. I believe from these two chapters, we can gather that the Holy Ghost is for everyone, everywhere.
Anyone desiring to receive the Holy Ghost can do so as follows:
• Believe in your heart that the Holy Ghost is for you;
• Repent of your sins and ask God to save you and fill you with His precious Holy Ghost;
• Live in the power of the Holy Ghost
Now that you know and understand who the Holy Ghost is for, how you receive Him is different. You simply have to ask. Luke 11:13 teaches that God will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. No gimmicks are required; only ask in faith, and He will give you the Holy Ghost.
REAL TALK
Ihad the wonderful opportunity to converse with two Christian professionals who have been in the corporate sector for several years. How have they ensured their success despite common workplace challenges? Let us find out!
AN INTERVIEW WITH MICHELLE SHOLARS
What is your job role in corporate America?
I am a Commercial Support Specialist in a major bank's Commercial Real Estate Division.
Tell us how long you have been in your career. I have been at the bank for 30 years and have had 11 roles.
What steps did you take on your journey to corporate leadership?
Networking is important. Sometimes, it is not about what you know but who you know. Another aspect of my early career was the need for mentorship during my desire to advance. I prayed to God for guidance, and He told me to dress the part. So, I began to dress according to my desire to advance my role at the bank. Initially, I had some resistance from coworkers and even my supervisor because I started to dress for the position I desired. Eventually, God began to bless me to move up in the company.
How have you maintained such longevity in the corporate sector?
Always being professional
Exemplifying christ in corporate america
By Stephanie Wyatt
and dressing for success has helped me in my career at the bank. Also, I have been very strategic about my advancement within the bank. If there is a new role I desire to land, I will research the department and the role and be very proactive about which department I should work in next. I pray and ask God to lead me because I understand that God knows what is best for me and my career. I learned to fight for what I want because there is no perfect job. But when I understand God has given me my job, I will not be so quick to quit when I face opposition.
As a Christian, what are some memorable challenges, if any, you have encountered in your work environment?
One of the challenges in my work environment has been experiencing religious discrimination, among other issues. When you are a Christian, most of the time, the people you work with will see you as different. In many cases, people have asked me about my Christian beliefs. In other cases, people were angry, usually because I dressed for success.
How are you being a witness for Christ in the workplace?
I choose not to force my beliefs on anyone. In many cases, people will recognize I am different,
SHOLARS
MICHELLE
and this will prompt them to ask about my faith and what I believe.
What advice can you give Christian professionals who want to make a difference for Christ in their workplaces?
Be compassionate toward your coworkers and show the love of Christ. Do not be a complainer because it will shine a negative light on yourself. Treat people the way you want to be treated. Be responsible and punctual. Be respectful of other people's opinions. Be humble and not brash.
What five characteristics must a person possess to excel professionally, naturally, and spiritually?
Compassion, confidence, adaptability (to change), honesty, and integrity are all key.
AN INTERVIEW WITH JOHNATHAN HALTON
What is your job role in corporate America?
I am a Vice President of a major bank. My functional title is a partner with our Executive Director to lead seventeen bank branches. I partner with them to create and implement strategies to create uniformity across the bank branches.
Tell us how long you have been in your career. I have been in my career for 18.5 years.
What steps did you take on your journey to corporate leadership?
workplace. I learned to establish my beliefs and standards with those around me, and I realized God has put me in a position to be a good steward of my work and the people I work with. As Christians, everything we do is unto the Lord.
How are you being a witness for Christ in the workplace?
I was relentless. I made sure I presented my best work with a work ethic rooted in excellence. Working hard and being strategic is half the battle. I was also able to learn to build relationships and network – horizontally and vertically.
How have you maintained such longevity in the corporate sector?
Perfecting the gifts God has given me has blessed me with longevity in my career. Investing in myself by improving my competencies is essential. Also, I have learned to connect with the people I work with.
As a Christian, what are some memorable challenges, if any, you have encountered in your work environment?
Because of my faith and what I believe, there are certain things I do not do in the
I choose to operate in excellence. And by doing this, more people will approach me about my faith. People realize my life is different from those around me. I do not assimilate to a culture. I am a culture carrier (for Christ). Where God has placed me in the secular field is a calling. And to understand that is important. My job is to solve problems. Having an “excellent spirit” like Daniel in the Bible, is vital. To exemplify Christ, you must be a “difference-maker.” It will allow you to have a voice. And this will allow you the opportunity to witness for the Lord. I allow God to shine through me in the workplace. And it all starts with having an excellent spirit.
What five characteristics must a person possess to excel professionally, naturally, and spiritually?
Eyes: Be observant of cultures, your environment, and people.
Ears: Be able to listen and be teachable.
Mind: Be strategic. Think outside of the box.
Mouth: Be able to communicate. How you deliver a message is important.
Heart: Be humble. Have a heart that runs after the Lord and His ways.
JOHNATHAN HALTON
To Ace The Interview
Before your interview, research the company and familiarize yourself with its mission and goals.
Study the position for which you are interviewing. Know the job description and the duties outlined in the job posting.
Review your resume and be prepared to discuss how your work background aligns with the role you are being interviewed for.
To be prepared for the interview, practice possible interview questions and long and short-form responses.
Arrive early for the interview, as arriving late may cause a feeling of being rushed and anxious.
During the interview, avoid making negative comments about your past employers. Stay positive.
At the close of the interview, be sure to thank the interviewer for their time.
01 02 03 04
To Dress For Success 4 Tips
Learn your employer’s expectations and dress code. Is it a business professional or business casual environment?
Even in a business casual setting, dressing too casually is not recommended. Pairing a blazer with a polo shirt is ideal.
Do not wear flip-flops or slippers to work. Closed-toe shoes such as pumps, flats, loafers, or boots are more professional.
Practice good manners and body language.
CITATION
https://career.io/career-advice/difference-betweenbusiness-casual-vs-business
Get involved at your workplace. Attend events that will allow you to connect professionally with those in your organization.
Remember to update your social media profiles, especially your professional accounts. (LinkedIn)
If you have business cards for your job role, exchange them with those you connect with at networking events.
Professional Networking 4 Tips 01 02 03 04
Practice your elevator pitch. Learn to explain who you are and what you bring to the table in 30 seconds.
CITATION
https://ucpathjobs.org/company-culture/how-to-network-at-work/
A Financially Savvy
Mindset
By: Janice Wyatt
The basics of financial literacy encompass effective (personal) money management skills. Most financially savvy people developed this skill years ago, even in their youth, from simple savings, budgeting, or both. There was a time when parents and grandparents sacrificed their limited funds to start savings accounts for their children’s posterity. Proverbs 13:22 states: “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” But these days, many people fail to see the need for savings accounts (rainy day funds), investing, leaving an inheritance, or the like. Understanding and practicing financial literacy can empower.
When counseling people on financial matters, I often find that they tend to spend without a plan simply because they have funds in their bank account at that time. Whether it is a recent paycheck or income tax refunds, they fail to draft a budget. Some have even told me that budgeting ‘does not work’ for them. However, a budget is not a restriction but a roadmap for handling income and expenses. It is the backbone of a secure financial future. The Bible speaks of the importance of planning, as Luke 14:28 states: For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he has sufficient to finish it? This scripture primarily applies to our commitment to be followers of Jesus Christ, but I believe this nugget can also guide us in handling our finances.
Bob Lotich of seedtime.com
explains these
five ways one’s budget is actually a spiritual practice²: (1) your spending reveals your heart; (2) stewardship vs ownership: we handle God's resources, as He is the owner, we are just the managers; (3) generosity is a budget category; (4) debt-free living is the freedom to serve; (5) contentment is the best financial plan.
Research shows that about 25-40 percent of the parables Jesus taught were regarding the handling of money (finances)¹; therefore, if Jesus saw a need to address such, then He must have deemed it a necessity for his followers and listeners to take it to heart. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:1430), Jesus taught about saving and investments.³
True, being financially astute does require discipline, as do many other facets of life. Financial literacy is essential because it can make one's (financial) future more fulfilling.
Just as there are benefits to being financially savvy, there are also pitfalls to being financially illiterate. Such pitfalls can result in the following: overwhelming debt, negative impact on credit score, bankruptcy, foreclosure, tax liens/levies (resulting from overdue Federal or State taxes), and loss of real property. Another factor that may cause a person’s finances to go awry is co-signing for another person’s financial obligation. The Bible warns of this, as Proverbs 6:1-2 states: “My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger, Thou art snared with the
words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.”
There are several avenues to becoming financially literate. Some of these are reading books, listening to podcasts, watching videos on financial planning, or taking finance courses. The more knowledge one gains regarding handling finances, the better one’s financial future should be. Some agencies provide free financial literacy information and online platforms, including Penny Hoarder, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and Yahoo Finance.
Being financially literate empowers one to take positive steps in life, such as reducing or limiting debt, planning for college, planning for retirement, establishing a savings account, purchasing a new home, and wisely investing in stocks and real
estate property, to name a few. If you have not taken the initiative to manage your finances and your financial future properly, I challenge you to consider taking on a mindset of making better and more informed financial decisions.
CITATIONS
¹https://relevantmagazine.com/faith/jesus-most-common-teachingwasnt-about-money/#:~:text=The%20 common%20 statistic%20 given%20 to,Those%20are%20the%20true
2 seedtime.com/ig
3https://www.denverinstitute.org/parable-of-the-talents-part1-gods-capital-investment/#:~:text=In%20 Matthew%20 25.14%2D30%2C%20 Jesus,earns%20no%20return%20on%20it
4https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/ https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ https://finance.yahoo.com/
Financial Terms
01 Bankruptcy
A legal process that helps people or businesses that cannot pay their debts get a fresh start. It can involve liquidating assets or creating a repayment plan.
02 Cosigner
An individual who signs a loan, credit account, or promissory note of another person as support for the credit of the primary signer and who becomes responsible for the debt obligation.
03 Creditworthy
Financially sound enough to justify the extension of credit.
04 Emergency Fund
A cash reserve that is specifically set aside for unplanned expenses or financial emergencies. Some common examples include car repairs, home repairs, medical bills, or a loss of income.
05 Inheritance
Money or other items a person receives upon the death of another, normally willed to them in
advance by the decedent or granted through court proceedings after the death of the original owner
06 Gross Income
Total pay before taxes and other deductions are taken out.
07 Investment
A financial plan one puts money into, with expectations of earning a financial return.
08 Net Income
The amount of money you receive in your paycheck after taxes and other deductions are taken out; also called take-home pay.
09 Savings Account
An account at a bank (sometimes called a share savings account at a credit union) used to set aside money and that pays you interest.
For a comprehensive list of financial literacy terms, visit: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/ youth-financial-education/glossary/
LOOK LIKE THEY
LOOKUS
By: Marjorie D. Williams
In making the gospel plain for an agricultural society, Jesus often used agrarian illustrations such as sowing and reaping in His parables. In Matthew 13:24-30, the wheat and the tare parable is one of the most powerful He used. As the parable goes, the kingdom of heaven is like a farmer who sowed good seeds in his wheat field. While he slept, his enemy came and sowed bad seeds (tares) among the good.
When the wheat started to grow, the tares also grew. The workers went to the farmer and asked if he planted good seed only, and if he did, they asked where the tares came from. The farmer said an enemy had done this. The workers ask if they should remove the tares. He replied, no, if you gather up the tares, you might remove the wheat also. Let them grow together, and at harvest time, gather the tares first, bind them in bundles to be burned, then gather the wheat and place it into the barn.
Wheat and tares are similar plants. Only a trained eye can spot the difference between them before maturation.
The Wheat
The field that Jesus referred to is the world, and the children of the kingdom are the good seed, the wheat. In both the natural and the spiritual, wheat is used to feed the world. More than one-third of the world's population depends on wheat as a staple of its diet. In the Kingdom of God, it is the job of Tares (Darnel) the good seed, the wheat, to feed the world by spreading the gospel. Natural wheat provides food for the belly; spiritual wheat provides food for the soul.
Jesus was the original wordsmith. In Luke 17:6, Jesus uses the sycamine tree to mirror the characteristics of unforgiveness. In Matthew 13, Jesus uses the tares (scientifically known as Darnel) to mirror the characteristics of the children of darkness.
Tares (or Darnel) is a weed grass (Lolium temulentum), a species of ryegrass. The seeds are a strong soporific poison, named such due to their intoxicating properties. It is generally regarded as deleterious (causing harm or damage). Darnel fungi have a soporific mechanism that causes side effects such as inducing sleep or drowsiness. It is also identified as a hypnotic. If eaten, Darnel can produce convulsions and even death.
A few other symptoms of Darnel and its fungus are:
• Drunkenness, intoxication
• Stupification
• Giddiness
• Apathy
• Dim-sightedness
The children of darkness exhibit all the symptoms mentioned above. Further, they are made drunk with the cares of this world and easily distracted by the lust of the flesh, hypnotized by the lust of the eye, and suffer dim-sightedness by the pride of life (I John 2:16). The tares are giddy about worldly entertainment, apathetic to biblical principles, and stupefied by things that should not dumbfound a child of God.
The Threshing Floor: Preparation for The Wheat
In Bible times, the traditional way of threshing was to spread the harvested wheat out on a hard surface. This surface could be made of brick, stone, or concrete. After spreading the wheat, it was beaten with a club or trampled by donkeys, oxen, or even children. This process separated the grain from the stalks.
After the grain is separated from the stalks, it is winnowed. To winnow is to toss the grain in the air and let the wind blow away the chaff, and the heavy grain falls into the basket. Chaff is the outer layer of the wheat that separates during the winnowing. Winnowing in the Bible is also a metaphor for separating the valuable from the worthless, often used to illustrate God's judgment and the division of good and evil, as in Matthew 3:12.
Beware of the Boll Weevil
There are many warnings in scripture to the wheat:
• Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought;
• Do not become a castaway;
• Do not look back
Why? Because there is another enemy to the wheat, both naturally and spiritually. It is an enemy that is hard to detect. That is why the Bible instructs the wheat to watch, pray, and guard its heart.
That enemy is called the boll weevil. Notice the last four letters in this word: weevil.’ The
LOOK LIKE THEY
damage weevils cause to stored grain can be summed up in one phrase: ‘from the inside out.' Diagnosing a weevil problem before it is too late is difficult. This is because weevil larvae grow inside sealed kernels and eat their way from the inside out as they grow, creating a “shot hole” appearance in grain kernels.
The adult weevil bores a small hole into the surface of the grain kernel, lays an egg, then covers the egg with a gelatinous fluid. This process makes control of immature weevils very difficult. The immature weevils consume the kernel interior and, within approximately four weeks, grow into an adult weevil in the kernel interior. When the adult weevil emerges from the kernel interior, a hollow kernel remains.
LOOKUS
The damage weevils can cause to the spiritual wheat is much like the damage to the natural grain. A seed, such as unforgiveness, envy, strife, or discouragement, is planted into the heart. If not spiritually treated, these seeds can morph into sin as they grow. Sin in the life of the wheat will cause eternal separation from God.
Regularly cleaning and treating all storage facilities and bins is required to prevent natural weevil infestations. To prevent spiritual weevil infestations, one must:
• Be filled with the Holy Ghost
• Pray without ceasing
• Read the Bible daily
• Be obedient to God
• Embrace the Fruit of the spirit
• Guard your heart
• Forsake not the assembling of yourself with believers
• Love your neighbor as yourself
They Look Like Us
This 21st-century, postmodern society is inundated with tares. The untrained spiritual eye cannot decipher the wheat from the tare. All professing Christians use the Bible, even though some use different versions. They all claim to be a part of the Kingdom of God. There are many sects and denominations waving the Christian banner. Moral relativism, pantheism, and liberation theology, like tares, has also found their way into the Christian church. According to the CRC (Cultural Research Center), 70% of United States citizens claim to be Christian. But what
does that mean? How do you know they are Christians?
You will know them by their fruits. The good seed produces fruitful lives. If good seeds are left behind after the harvest, wheat will reseed itself, producing more wheat. The counterfeit produces no lasting fruit.
The Bible is a literal roadmap to the kingdom of God. It identifies all the attributes of the wheat. The wheat has been instructed to be salt and light, a candle sitting on a hill, leading the way to salvation by planting, pruning, and cultivating good seed in the field. Looking like wheat is not good enough. We must exhibit the attributes of wheat in word and deed. When harvest time comes, the tare will be gathered, bound, and cast into a furnace of fire where there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. The wheat will hear those precious words: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
CITATIONS
1https://www.agriculture.com/crops/wheat/wheat-feedsthe-world
2https://farmandanimals.com/what-is-the-purpose-ofsifting-wheat/
3Matthew 3:12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
4https://www.feedandgrain.com/home/article/15384929/ central-life-sciences-controlling-the-elusive-weevil-instored-grain
5https://www.philosophos.org/ethics-moral-relativism
6https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ pantheism
7CRC (Cultural Research Center)
BY DR. ALTON WILKS
The of the Transformation Heart
Our lives, which automatically include our hearts, must submit to the power of the Holy Ghost. A common declaration in today’s society is “I have to follow my heart.” This is a world of fleshly and carnal overload. Everything this world offers appeals to either the flesh, eyes, or pride of life. I John 2:16 declares, "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” The knowledge and understanding of this fact lead one to believe that this world can be a trap to the carnal heart. The carnal heart is susceptible to desires for the pleasures of life, the sites of glamorous entertainment (i.e., things, people, greater wealth), and the desire for more and more.
Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" This scripture should warn all that the heart cannot be trusted due to its incredible ability to deceive more than other things. Keep in mind that the heart becomes more than just an essential organ in the body or is perceived as a harmless tool for life and decision guidance; it takes on the position and ability of the greatest deceiver.
Desperate wickedness is also used to describe our hearts. It is the second half of an evil dyad that can destroy any and all people. If this fleshly heart is not properly submitted to God, then the predisposition of the heart is deceit and wickedness. Just as our human heart can be genetically susceptible to disease, weakness, and irregular beating, the spiritual heart is genetically given to deception and evil. The susceptibility or predisposition stems from man's fall in the garden, which allowed our spiritual DNA (i.e., genetics) to be spiritually altered. Exposure of our natural genetics to radiation can alter our DNA and genetic coding, thus negatively leading to sickness and disease as well as death. Man's disobedience to God in the Garden of Eden permanently altered our spiritual genetics. Psalm 51:5 says, “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.” Understanding the enemy of our souls begins with understanding
the enemy within ourselves: the heart.
Just as our natural hearts are an integral and essential part of our natural bodies, pumping lifegiving blood and nutrients to every area, organ, and cell, the spiritual heart has the same function as our spiritual bodies. The heart of an individual who has not been submitted to God and washed in the blood of Jesus is a source of great deception and wickedness. The natural heart of a man pumps the blood, blood contents, and nutrients, whether healthy or destructive, to all areas of the body without the discretion of the end result. This is proven by the fact that most venomous snake bites are on the hands, wrists, feet, and ankles, but it leads to the death of the entire body if not treated with anti-venom. Likewise, the spiritual heart will send the contents of what has been received and injected into our spirits, good or evil, throughout our spirit man. The natural and spiritual circulation systems are designed to perfuse every cell of our composition and bodies efficiently. The ingestion of healthy substances can lead to a healthy body that is full of vitality and life. In contrast, the ingestion of unhealthy, poisonous substances tends to lead to disease and premature death. In John 10:10, Jesus proclaimed, "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." Naturally, we understand the effect of diet or consumption on our bodies. Spiritually, we sometimes ignore knowledge, which becomes spiritually detrimental. God's spirit has come from heaven to empower us and direct us toward the path of abundant life through Jesus Christ.
To live healthy, we must govern what is ingested and consumed within; awareness of our natural and spiritual intake is paramount.
1 John 4:1-3 declares Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Our spiritual awareness and governing is from God’s Holy Spirit. John 16:13 reads, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” Truth is the essential nutrient our inner man should possess to have a spiritually healthy heart. Truth is the antioxidant to spiritual heart disease characterized by deception and wickedness. The implied danger of a heart that has not been submitted to God is that it can make one’s feelings, thoughts, and emotions the gauge of what is right and wrong. In John 14:6, the Word of God clearly declares: “Jesus is the way, the truth and the life." Therefore, knowing the truth is the spiritual antidote to self-deception and wickedness. The truth of God's Word must be received, practiced, and incorporated into the daily task of submitting the heart to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Truth is dictated only by the Word of God, not by our carnal mind, worldly knowledge, or scientific facts. Because God is the only originator of truth, His words should serve as the ultimate authority in our lives. If we are to live a victorious life, then the Spirit of truth (the Holy Spirit) must be the default authority over the desires of our hearts. Truth must circulate in the spiritual heart of a man, and God's Holy Spirit must be our guide and teacher as we move in this truth.
The Holy Spirit of God cuts away the great deception and wickedness of the heart. Romans 2:29 states, “….and circumcision is that of the heart; in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” This cutting away of the wickedness of the heart allows increasing submission of the heart to God’s Word and Holy Spirit. Once a person arrives at this place
of understanding and submission, the heart is fit to serve God. Submission of the heart to God strengthens our spiritual understanding, increases our sensitivity to God's leading, and allows His Spirit to direct our lives. Therefore, The Holy Spirit can lead and guide us into all truth, and from this position, the child of God is fit to serve. "And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:24-25).
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?"
Jeremiah 17:9
By: Clarence E. Davis II
Can you imagine living in this world without electrical power? Electricity, as a power source, is used for many things and is vital to our lives. If you think about it, we use electricity daily for various purposes, such as light in a house, cooking and warming food, laundry, and using multiple appliances. It is in everything, from electronic and entertainment devices to travel vehicles. Indeed, it is an essential part of our everyday existence. While the power and use of electricity are quite significant, there is a greater power at our disposal. It is even more vital to our daily lives as believers, and it is the power of the Holy Ghost.
In Acts 1:8, Jesus said, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
Jesus, the promised Messiah and redeemer of the Old Testament, began His ministry in Galilee and gained followers and disciples who believed in His salvation. These young believers of Christ were equipped with the teachings of Jesus from the many parables He had shared and the sermons spoken on mountaintops. Yet, though they could quote His words, Jesus was more interested in them imitating His life. Therefore, He promised them power through the person of the Holy Ghost to enable them to obey His teachings. He told the disciples before His crucifixion in John 16:7, "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you." Jesus, having spent three years with these chosen few, was aware that they would not readily accept living without the physical presence of their Master. Therefore, Jesus
promised to send them another Comforter who would lead them into all truth amid persecution and opposition to righteousness. As believers today in the 21st century, we face the challenge of living victoriously amidst a world and society opposed to Christ and Biblical values. Similarly, as difficult as it would be to live without electricity, it would be impossible to confront the issues of the day and the struggles of our lives without the power of the Holy Ghost.
Precisely, what is or who is the Holy Ghost? Some use comparisons to suggest that the Holy Ghost is a force or energy randomly moving upon an individual. Others limit who He is to the effect of His presence in an exciting service where people feel exhilaration in their bodies. Though He can move upon an individual, and congregants in service can feel His presence, He is actually the Spirit of God or what Scripture reveals as the third person of the Triune God. God is depicted in the Scriptures as one God that exists as three co-equal persons, i.e., the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The Father, who loved humanity, sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Jesus lived a holy and perfect life and became the sacrifice for our sins, ensuring our salvation. The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of God who comes into our lives and gives us the power to live holy as Jesus did on this earth. These are the functions and roles of the Godhead, and sadly, some belief systems would have believers settle for only the first and second persons of the Trinity, which would be a tremendous personal disservice.
We can see from the Scriptures how important the Holy Ghost is to the other members of the Trinity. The Bible records that Jesus was filled with the Holy Ghost at His baptism, for the Spirit descended upon him like a dove, according to Luke 3:22. If Jesus saw the advantage of having the Holy Ghost active in His life, what about us today? Moreover, Jesus informs His disciples that God promised He would send the Holy Ghost to believers. He says in John 14:26, "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." God the Father also sees that the Holy Ghost is essential to the lives of believers, and anything this important should not be left on the table! Let us not settle for anything less than what is made available to us as believers: the person of the Holy Ghost moving and acting in our lives.
What makes the Holy Ghost so crucial to our lives is not only who He is but also what He possesses: power. In Luke 24:49, Jesus describes Him as bringing "power from on high", which endues or endows believers with ability. Also, in Luke 10:19, Jesus says, "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." The Greek word for power is dunamis, from which we get the English word dynamite! So, what are the scriptures telling us? It is letting us
know that through the Holy Ghost, we have access to a heavenly dynamic operation that gives us abilities and subdues the power of the enemy, the devil. This is the power and authority Jesus walked in that enabled him to work miracles and live in the perfect will of God. Undoubtedly, this power from the Holy Ghost is accessible to every believer who is determined to have all that God has for them. This power is needed today, but how do we access it?
Thankfully, the Scriptures show us how we can position ourselves for power. No believer needs to live beneath their privilege nor inheritance, nor should any individual live contrary to promise; even so, how does someone receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost? A few things must be in place for a person to become a candidate for receiving the Holy Ghost into their lives, as exemplified by the disciples, who were the initial recipients of the Holy Ghost. Firstly, and this goes without saying, a person must already be a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. In other words, one must have already placed faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord. This should be a given, but many people love the joy and excitement displayed in the presence of the Holy Ghost in a service but are not willing to turn from their sins and follow Christ. In the days of the early church, there was a man named Simon, a sorcerer who saw the effect and impact of the Holy Ghost displayed through the ministry of the Apostles. Acts 8:18-22 depicts Simon attempting to purchase the power of the Holy Ghost from the Apostle Peter, who later tells him he needs to repent because his heart was not right. This demonstrates that many want the effect of the Holy Ghost and are willing to have it; however, those who desire it must correctly acquire Christ’s person to receive His power. Because He is pure and holy, the Spirit of God will not dwell in an unclean heart; therefore, our hearts must be cleansed through repentance and renewed in faith in Jesus.
After someone has placed their faith in Jesus, humility is the second thing needed to receive the Holy Ghost baptism. From the account in the book of Acts, we noticed that the disciples, including Jesus's mother, were present in the upper room to await the arrival of the Spirit of God. Here, they demonstrate humility in their obedience to the instructions of Jesus. They could have had the attitude of someone today who said, "I have walked with Jesus for some odd years, why do I need the Holy Ghost?" Mary, the mother of Jesus, certainly could have pulled rank and felt that since she birthed the Savior into the world, there was no need for her to have the Holy Ghost. Instead, she submitted herself to the instructions and authority of Jesus Christ and showed by her humility that if Jesus says she must have it, she should have it. How many are willing to be humble like the disciples and Mary and receive what they lack? Some could have pride and feel that since they've been in church or operated in ministry without the baptism of the Holy Ghost, they are okay. Still, the Continued on Page 35
GOD A and World question
BY JONATHAN COLBERT
In life, questions spring up that require us to make a choice. Life is about the choices that you make. In some cases, your selection comes with uncertainties. Your choice can turn out to be good or bad or even not affect your life at all. Not to mention, your answers to life's questions can change with time. There are many questions in life, and how we answer them has differing results. However, one question given by our Maker and life-giver is written in stone and must be answered by all. Who will you serve on this earth? Will you serve God and have eternal life, or will you serve the devil and the world which brings death and damnation? It is a God or world question. Life and death are set before us, as said in Deuteronomy 30:19. There is no middle ground and no “all of the above,” but the correct answer has already been freely given by the Word of God simply saying, “Now choose life.”
Not so obvious answer
Of course, life seems like the obvious answer between life and death, right? If you were to approach someone and ask them whether they would rather live or die, nobody in their right mind would choose to die, right? Also, it would appear to be a little unnecessary for God to help us answer such a seemingly simple question. Yet, as obvious as the answer may seem, more people are unfortunately choosing wrong. The enemy (Satan) has presented compelling arguments against God's superior reasoning, and with him being as persuasive and cunning as he is, it should not come as a surprise, especially to the believer. In Revelation 12:7-9, we see even used-to-be angels of the Lord persuaded by Satan to wage war in Heaven only to eventually get kicked out with no chance to return. Think about this life-or-death question for yourself and ponder on what choice you are currently making. Which choice have you made based on who you are serving right now? Whatever your answer is, it is not just based on the words of your mouth but on the life you are living.
If you choose life, then… If you choose to serve Christ, you choose to live a holy life free from sin. Things that the world participates in, you do not partake in. However, God did not guarantee that this life would be easy. There will be trials and challenges that a believer will have to go through. However, a relationship with God softens every blow of said trials and works to make you stronger in Him. When you pass away, your reward for your perseverance is eternal life in Heaven. Revelation 21 describes Heaven as a beautiful city, with some of the many highlights being precious stones and golden streets. Jesus says in John 14:2, "In my Father's house are many mansions:" Revelations 21:27 speaks to the exclusiveness of Heaven, stating, that there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life. In other words, sin will not be allowed in this holy city, along with sadness, pain,
sickness, and everything else that can defile. We will receive glorified bodies from God that can never die.
If you choose death, then… If you choose to serve the world, you unfortunately choose death. You choose to live a life of sin and accept the world's perishable material wealth and rewards. As alluded to in 1 John 2:16-17, the world is filled with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life that will eventually pass away. Unfortunately, it will take you down that broad road to destruction filled to the brim with sinners. Compare that to the narrow road leading to life, which regrettably has few travelers. It is no wonder that while Heaven has stayed the same size, hell continues to grow. Isaiah 5:14 backs this statement by saying, “Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure.” Hell is a place of everlasting torment and complete separation from God, a separation that you ask for when you choose the world over God and his son, Jesus. Many scriptures throughout the Bible describe hell as a terrible place, with the majority of scriptures saying that it is a burning place, filled with unquenchable fire and brimstone. Mark 9:43-48 even states that there are worms that die not. Just like Heaven is an eternal abode, hell is eternal as well. Can you imagine forever screaming and crying because you are burning, tormented, full of worms, and experiencing other horrific torments?
Why you cannot have both
As stated before, there is no middle ground or 'all of the above' option to the question of life or death. God said in Revelation 3:15-16 that He would rather you be hot or cold, and if you are lukewarm, defined by MerriamWebster as moderately warm or lacking conviction, you will be spat out. Additionally, James 3:12 states that it is impossible for salt and fresh water to flow from the same fountain. God is against mixing as it goes against His standard of holiness. To be holy is to be separate and consecrated to Him alone. God is a jealous God and will not share you with anything or anyone else, especially not the devil. You only have one throne in your heart, and whoever occupies it is king. Just as in Heaven, God (not you or the devil) must sit on that throne. If there was not enough room in a vast space like Heaven for God and Satan, then there is certainly not enough room for both of them in your heart.
The proper way to address and approach God is humbly, giving Him respect for who He is.
Many of us were raised to be respectful. In my household, it was almost considered a disgrace not to address adults by saying 'ma'am or sir.' Fortunately for us, this type of upbringing (which included many other things) taught us how to be respectful. Through it, we learned the value of showing due respect to those who are in authority. Regardless of who the adult was, we knew there was a right and a wrong way to interact with them.
As children, we were taught how to approach adults when we wanted their attention. I could not address my parents the way I did my friends with whom I attended school. There was a difference between my friends and my parents. My parents clothed, fed, provided shelter, and cared for me. They loved me unconditionally and were due the utmost deference. The least I could do was show them the honor and respect they deserved. I was a blessed child because of who my parents were. Without their teachings on respect, my life would be quite different. To receive respect, you must first know how and when to give it.
Learning to show respect to others (regardless of their position) is vital to our growth and understanding. However, there is One who deserves our utmost respect above all. We revere parents, whether good or bad, and we revere bosses who might mistreat us; how much more should we show a proper reverence for
By: Kadeem Jimmerson
God? Proverbs 1:7 says, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." The Bible teaches us to have a reverent fear of God (respect tempered by love). I love to call God the “good, good Father.” A good father does not want his children to be scared of him, but rather, he wants them to respect him and know that they can embrace him and come to him at any time. To fear God simply means to revere Him.
To properly revere God, we must surrender to His will and way. Keep in mind that it is He who made us, and not we ourselves. It is amazing: God created us, not because He needed us, but simply because He wanted us. Humans do not define the existence of God; rather, God defines our existence. He is not a being created to serve our wants, but the Creator who loves us and sustains our lives. All He asks in return is that we live for Him. He could force us to serve Him, but He gives us free will and lets us decide who we want to serve.
Our respect for God should be apparent in word and deed, and we should make sure to represent Him well as true sons and daughters. Our words should be “seasoned with grace” whether we are speaking to Him or to others about Him. In our good times and our bad, we have to give Him respect. We should be like Job: although he suffered the loss of so much, he held to his integrity and refused to speak ill of God. In our good times, we must honor God for His blessings. In the bad times, we must thank Him for His grace. This is the heart of a reverent servant living a lifestyle that pleases God. This is the attitude of the man or woman who understands Ecclesiastes 12:13,
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man." We can only respect and honor God by keeping His commandments.
You might wonder, 'How do I approach God? What is the proper way?' The proper way to address and approach God is humbly, giving Him respect for who He is. We have nothing to offer God that He would want, and He has everything we need. One shows appreciation when understanding that we have done nothing to deserve God's grace. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8). It is heartbreaking to know that Christ took our place on the cross. We deserved to be crucified, yet He was the only one worthy to be slain for the sins of the world. When we approach God, we must keep this in mind, lest we approach with the attitude that we deserve to be in the presence of the King.
Some people wonder why Christians go to church so much. Others wonder why we lift our hands, sing, pray, and read our Bibles. For the believer, it is very simple: it is our way of showing gratitude for who God is and what He has done for us. Our approach to God should always feel like the 'honeymoon phase.’ Naturally so, the honeymoon phase is when you are more in tune with the desires of your significant other. Since God's love for us is eternal, we should desire to do whatever is necessary to please Him: a longing to be with Him and a passion never to want to leave His side. We should never come to God as if He needs us, but we should be guilty of constantly reminding Him that we need Him. (Luke 18:9-14)
BY KIJYANA SMITH
STAYING SAFE ONLINE
We are now in a period where digital threats are ever-present; therefore, protecting your online information is crucial. Have you ever thought that your password could be cracked or someone else could be reading your emails? Consider everything that is currently stored on your computer, phone, and email. It does not matter if you are an individual or a business; implementing online security practices is necessary. Protecting yourself online requires knowledge and vigilance because, every day, thieves are getting more proficient at stealing information.
Here are ten key tips to help safeguard your online data.
Avoid using obvious passwords like "password" or "654321." Instead, create passwords that combine letters, numbers, and special characters. If possible, utilize a secure password manager (e.g., Password Safe or KeePass). These store your passwords within a vault, allowing one master password. Passwords are the keys to your digital life.
Adding an extra layer of security (2FA) requires one to verify their identity via a second method using either text messages or an authentication application (e.g., Google Authenticator or Duo Mobile), which makes it harder for unauthorized users to gain access to another user’s account(s). Passwords and PINs (personal identification numbers) are an excellent way to add that extra layer of security.
Be cautious about clicking on links in emails, texts, or social media messages, especially if they seem urgent or too good to be true. Avoid downloading from unknown sources. Always verify the sender's authenticity before engaging. If you receive an unsolicited email or message asking for information, contact the organization directly using a known contact instead of responding to that message.
When entering personal information online, ensure the website is secure by checking the browser address for HTTPs and a padlock icon in the address bar. This means the website communication protocol is encrypted and secure. Avoid entering personal data on sites that do not have these features.
Public Wi-Fi networks are less secure and are primarily targeted by hackers. Avoid using them when accessing sensitive information or performing financial transactions while connected to a public wi-fi network. Use your phone’s hotspot instead or Stick to Public networks you like at a Starbucks, etc.
Switching to private mode prevents browsing from being stored on your computer or phone and prevents visited sites from popping up later. Most browsers have tracking protection in private/incognito browsing. Select the Chrome Menu (three vertical dots) from the upper-right corner and then select New Incognito window. A window opens, explaining Chrome's incognito mode.
07: OPT-OUT OF TRACKING
All internet sites are fixed with tracking cookies in the many pieces of content they contain (e.g., ads, comment boxes, and sponsored links). Delete cookies when possible. Cookies are used in browsers, as they help load them faster. When cookies are enabled on your browsers, it will remember the website visited along with details and password. Remember, cookies work by collecting and storing one’s information.
Invest in wallets or sleeves specifically designed with RFID-blocking technology. These products contain materials that shield your credit cards or ID cards from unauthorized scanning tools. Keep them in a secure location. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Limit exposure of your cards in public areas.
Monitor your financial accounts and online profiles for unusual activity. Promptly report any suspicious activity to your financial institutions.
Regularly backing up important files can protect you from data loss due to viruses or hardware failures. Store backups in a secure location, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage.
Remember to stay informed about common online scams and phishing techniques. Awareness of the latest scams can help you recognize and avoid them. Remember that God's Word says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..." (Hosea 4:6). By following these strategies, you can better protect yourself from falling victim to online scams and ensure a safe online experience.
Ready to test your digital defense? Click here: http://bit.ly/3UhYxqW or scan
Acommonly asked question in the church world is, "Is it right or is it wrong?" In 1 Corinthians 10:23, the scripture declares, "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not." We must separate what makes us more spiritual from what makes us carnal, what edifies God, and how it advances the kingdom of God. As children of God, we must be careful to carry ourselves as a light for Jesus. Truth be told, we may be the only Jesus someone sees.
Does it Make You More Spiritual?
Instead of asking yourself, “Is it right or is it wrong?” consider the question, “Does it make me more spiritual, or does it make me carnal?”. Everything is not wrong to do, but everything does not glorify God. Satan would much rather us spend our time doing things that make us more carnal. For example, sometimes, if I am not watchful, I will spend more time scrolling on social media and then give God 10 to 15 minutes of prayer. Was the act of scrolling on my phone wrong? No, but it did interrupt time that I could have
been spending in the presence of God. We must keep our eyes open since Satan is incapable of keeping us from being saved. He will try his very best to keep us from enjoying the benefit of being spiritual. We must be careful not to overlook prayer and discipline, which would otherwise allow the enemy to creep in and make us less powerful in God.
We should carefully evaluate the importance of our life in Christ over our social life. I choose those things that draw me closer to Christ over those that feed my flesh. When it comes to the things of God, there should be no question about what is more important to us. It is not a matter of what we cannot do but what we can do. I can choose to win souls to the kingdom, I choose to pray, I choose to fast to be closer to Him, and I choose to live a life that separates holy from unholy and clean from unclean.
Does it Edify God?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you have had to take a stand for your beliefs? In the past, I have received invites from coworkers to attend different places after work, usually on Fridays. After the second invite and my decline, I noticed it stopped. Once I researched the venue and saw it was somewhere that went against what I stand for, I chose to decline.
Right
Wrong or
Lawful Expedient But
Not
By: Alicial Jackson
1 Thessalonians 5:22 says, "Abstain from all appearance of evil." Even if I had not participated in the act and had not been doing anything wrong, it would not have gloried God. As children of God, we must ask ourselves, "Is what I am engaging in glorifying God?" The will of self can cause us to do those things that feed our flesh. If it goes against our witness, it most likely is not edifying God.
God can only be edified in our lives when we do His will, which means we must deny ourselves so Christ can be seen through us. John 3:30 states, "He must increase, but I must decrease." Our goal as Christians is to draw people to Him, and our lives must glorify Him to do so. We must be dedicated to bringing glory and honor to Him.
How Does it Advance the Kingdom?
Our goal is to advance the kingdom, not tear it down. Satan wants to kill your witness because he knows that if he can cause your life to be a contradiction to what you say, it could lead people away from Christ. The Bible says in John 10:10, "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." Satan wants to steal from you what God has placed on the inside of you to advance the kingdom. This is why discipline is important; Satan will cause
lawful distractions to hinder you from the work God has called you to do. Hebrews 12:1 states, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." This tells us that some things are just weights that will keep us from a more perfect life with Christ. We will need to lay aside and let go of those things. This is how we will advance the kingdom of God.
I pray that the ‘Is it wrong or right?’ mindset is changed to ‘How is it edifying God?’ Before making decisions in life, ask yourself this question. We should strive to stay away from the things that do not bring glory to our Heavenly Father. It may not be wrong, but that does not make it edifying. We cannot laugh at every joke, go any and everywhere, or live in our fleshly desires. We have a God to glorify and have been called to a higher standard of living.
HOT OR COLD
By Tamia Holland
Haveyou ever considered what happens when hot coffee turns cold? It is not just about losing the warmth; it is also about losing the flavor, the aroma, and even the caffeine content (Horeca). Imagine wanting your favorite morning pick-me-up, only to find that it does not wake you up and fulfill its purpose. Just as we want a flavorful and robust cup of coffee, God wants passionate and enthusiastic servants walking with Him. The Bible portrays God as a consuming fire, and as His people, He calls us to be like Him. We are called to be ablaze with passion for God and His will.
A Fire That Cannot Be Contained
Jeremiah 29:13 ”And ye shall seek me, and find me when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”
To be "hot" can mean being passionate and fervent in spirit and actions. When we seek the Lord with passion, we will find Him. The Lord wants us to come to Him with confidence and willingness. As hot coffee that fulfills its purpose, we walk in purpose when we serve the Lord passionately. You might ask, "What is our purpose?" Our purpose is to do the will of God in winning the lost back to Him through the gospel message. We are to be as a firestorm that blazes a path of righteousness. In the same way that adding more branches and oxygen fuels a fire, being on fire for God can spread and inspire others to be devoted to God. It is truly a wonderful blessing for our faith to be an example to others. Being on fire represents a drive to bring change, ignite action, and make a difference.
Maintaining the Heat
The resistive heating element is a crucial component
in coffee machines. Its role is to maintain the optimal temperature of the water during brewing and to keep the coffee hot (Brain &Toothman). Similarly, establishing a profound connection with God is essential for maintaining spiritual fervor. When we allow God to refine us, we can be ignited with His power to fulfill our true purpose. Many coffee makers feature a water filtration system that purifies the water before it reaches the heating element. This filtration removes contaminants, bacteria, chlorine, and water hardness, enhancing the coffee machine's longevity and improving the coffee's flavor (Harry). Just as the impurities in water are eliminated during the coffee-making process, we can experience spiritual purification by confessing our sins and turning away from our old ways. The heating plate that the coffee pot sits on after brewing maintains the coffee's heat and purity. For us, we sustain our purity by abiding by God's Word. By doing so, we can maintain the divine fire within us as we walk in faith daily and meditate on the Word. Hebrews 1:7 “And of the angels He saith, Who maketh His angel's spirits and his ministers a flame of fire.”
No Cold Transformation
According to Webster's dictionary, cold means not moving, unaffecting, not animated, unable to excite feeling, and spiritless (Webster). What happens when the water does not move past the resistive heating element? The coffee maker malfunctions because the water is not heated, and the grounds cannot be converted into coffee. Similarly, if we allow ourselves to grow cold in our spirit, we become unprofitable
servants. The cold water can create a blockage in the coffee maker, and the cold spirit can block our usefulness to Christ. If we do not go through the process of becoming heated, we can become a blockage to ourselves. The finished product cannot be obtained without going through the process with God.
A Complete Transformation
The finished product requires us to be fervent for God. A transformation occurs in our hearts and is outwardly visible when we accept Jesus as our Savior. We are transformed into new creatures through salvation, which protects us from ruin. What is the purpose of water in the coffee pot if it will not be transformed, and what is the purpose of a cold Christian who is a hindrance to God's work? We should not settle for just being in the church; instead, we should actively become a part of the church and the kingdom of God. Matthew 24:12 “And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.”
Hard Water Build Up
How many times have you heard that Jesus is coming soon? Some may react with urgency, while others have turned a deaf ear. As Christians, we believe it is the truth and conduct ourselves accordingly. Others, unfortunately, have hardened their hearts to believe in evolution and the Big Bang theory. They trust in science and mock the Bible. The time is winding up for us as people because we never know when we will leave this earth. Just like the coffee maker, if it is not taken care of sooner or later, hard water will build up, causing stains and valve problems and destroying the machine (Unknown). Sin is the cause of a cold heart and being unaffected by the Word of God. It is imperative that we answer His call when he gives it; many may wait until it is too late. The knock at the door of their hearts from Jesus no longer affects them, and sin is running rampant in their lives. The result is destruction, but the good news is that you have a solution. One can get rid of that buildup of hard water by simply answering the call of God.
Jesus Is the Solution
Have you heard of CLR (calcium, lime, and rust) remover? It works wonders for removing hard water buildup in your coffee machine (RSL). Similarly, we all need a spiritual solution to remove the hardness of the heart and sin. That solution is found in the gospel of Jesus Christ. By embracing Him and living righteously, our hearts can be transformed, becoming sensitive to His Word and commands. Without this change, we have no hope.
Embracing Christ means accepting a new life filled with hope and purpose. Just as the water that enters the machine does not cause a blockage but goes through the process successfully, our lives can be a finished
product with a beautiful outcome. A cup of coffee is not only a morning pick-me-up but can also release antioxidants that help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and liver disease (Frankhart). Similarly, being on fire for God can help reduce the disease called sin and be a testimony to others. Jesus is the source of our existence and enables us to shine brightly. Let us be a beacon of hope in this world and share that hope with others
CITATIONS
Brain, Marshall & Toothman, Jessika. “How Coffee Makers Work.” https://home.howstuffworks.com/coffee-maker.htm#pt2. N.d. Coffee, HORECA. “When Coffee Gets Cold. What Happens Then?” https://www.balmforthandco.co.uk/when-coffee-gets-cold-whathappens-then/. 12 July 2023.
Harry, Rose. “Do Coffee Makers Filter Water? Realizing the Truth Behind Your Morning Brew.” https://thecoffeedelight.com/ accessories/coffee-maker/do-coffee-makers-filter-water. N.d. Frankhart, Colleen. “Health Benefits of Coffee.” https://www.rush. edu/news/health-benefits-coffee#:~:text=6.,blood%20flow%20 and%20blood%20pressure. N.d.
RSL. “Troubleshooting Your Coffee Machine: Common Issues and How to Fix Them.” https://www.refreshmentsystems.co.uk/ troubleshooting-your-coffee-machine-common-issues-and-how-tofix-them/. 09 April 2023.
Webster, Aaron. “Cold.” American Dictionary of the English Language. 2022.7.23. https://webstersdictionary1828.com/ Dictionary/Cold. 21 July 2024.
Webster, Aaron. “Hot.” American Dictionary of the English Language. 2022.7.23. https://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/Hot. 21 July 2024.
Unknown. “The Hidden Culprit: Why Water Hardness is Harmful to Your Machine and Coffee.” https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/coffeelounge/editorial/the-hidden-culprit-why-water-hardness-is-harmfulto-your-machine-and-coffee#:~:text=Coffee%20machines%20 aren't%20cheap,your%20equipment%20to%20fail%20prematurely. N.d.
The Tangled Line: A Story About Following Christ
I recently went on a fishing trip with my grandma. As we were riding, a lady in our group noticed she had a messy, tangled line. She asked me to help her straighten it out. At first, I was eager to assist. But frustration began to set in as the minutes turned into what felt like hours. The line seemed to be getting worse, not better. The lady, however, remained patient. My grandma even suggested using her knife to cut the knot. I desperately hoped the lady would agree; after all, there was a whole roll of new line! We continued to wrestle with the line and eventually got it straightened out. I was overflowing with joy!
That tasking situation made me realize that following Christ can be similar to untangling that fishing line. There will be knots, twists, and unexpected turns along the way. People might ask us if it is worth the effort. They might point out the sacrifices we have to make, but we must decide to follow Christ regardless.
Christianity is More Than Blessings
We often hear messages about God's blessings and how He will "make a way" for us. But what about the times of suffering and pain? These struggles are rarely mentioned. Yet, they are a very real part of the Christian walk. The truth is that following Christ is not all about acquiring wealth or possessions. It is about establishing a relationship with Him. It is about denying ourselves and taking up our cross. Can we truly love Christ if we do not receive the things we ask? Is our faith based on what He can do for us or what we can do for Him? What motivates us to serve Him?
A Modern Example
Think about David and Natalie Lloyd, two modern-day missionaries who were tragically killed in Haiti1. They understood the cost of following Christ. They knew their lives were not about comfort or personal gain. They were willing to risk everything for their faith. How
many of us would be willing to make such a sacrifice? Lifting our hands in the comfort of padded pews, air conditioning, and chandeliers is easy. Can we lift our hands when bullets are flying at our heads? What would we do if someone says deny Jesus or die?
Following Through on Our Commitment
There will be times when we feel discouraged and want to give up. But we must remember our commitment to God. Just like I had to deny myself the comfort of giving up on untangling the fishing line, we must persevere. The Bible tells us in Luke 9:23 that following Christ requires sacrifice. Jesus Himself did not come to Earth seeking comfort or ease. He came to serve and, ultimately, to die for our sins. As believers, we are called to deny ourselves. Our culture is all about 'me' – but following Christ requires us to put others first. It means sacrificing our desires for the sake of His will. By nature, we are self-serving creatures. When we trace back to the garden where the serpent tempted Eve, we see that it was motivated by what 'I' can be like.
We have lost sight of the importance of sacrifice. Too quickly, we prioritize worldly gains like money, houses, cars, etc., over true commitment to Christ. Those disciples who gave up everything to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-22) serve as examples of fully devoted lives.
Taking Up Our Cross Daily
Taking up our cross daily is a metaphor for the challenges and hardships we will face as Christians. A famous theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, said, "When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die." The cross was not a pleasant experience. It was a symbol of suffering and death. Following Christ does not mean a life free of problems. It means facing difficulties with faith and courage. It is true that those who follow Christ must actively fight their sinful nature. They rely on God's spirit daily to overcome temptations and live
By Raphael Roker
THE PRICE OF DISCIPLESHIP
righteously. This constant battle crucifies their sinful desires and brings them closer to God.
Following in His Footsteps
Following Christ means actively living according to His teachings. It is more than just attending church services. It is a daily commitment to living a righteous life. The Bible instructs us not to follow the patterns of the world but to pursue righteousness, faith, and love. In today's world, getting caught up in worldly influences is very easy. We need to be aware when we listen to the messages we hear and ask, "Does it align with Christ's teaching?" Does it align with Christ's example? Being His follower takes more than repeating a 'prayer' or shaking the preacher's hand. Jesus requires us to walk as He walked—in love and truth.
Christ's truth does not change with the times. His truth is sure, absolute, and constant through the ages. The Bible is the blueprint; anything else will lead to error.
Following Christ requires dedication and perseverance. It is not always easy, but it is ultimately worth it. He is the Good Shepherd who will guide us through life's challenges.
The Choice is Ours
Following Christ requires a firm commitment and a willingness to persevere, even when things are difficult. The cost of following Christ may be high, but the rewards are even greater. The peace and joy that comes from knowing Him is something the world cannot offer. This Christian walk may not always be sunshine and rainbows, but the destination, eternal life, is better than the earthly cost.
In Matthew 4:19 (KJV), Jesus' first words to Peter were, "Follow me." In John 21:22 (KJV), Jesus' final words to Peter were, "Follow me." "Follow me" is still Jesus' invitation to discipleship, which is not passive but an active pursuit. Will you accept it today?
CITATION
¹ https://apnews.com/article/haiti-young-missionaries-killedgang-violence-ba69910971aaa0542233d6bd2a947d78
By:Stephanie Wyatt
Have you ever attended a meeting where the host played an icebreaker game called "Two truths and a lie?" In this game, the goal is to get to know the meeting attendees by having everyone recite two truths and one lie about themselves. The game's objective is for the group to determine which two statements about the attendees are true or false. The idea is to be so convincing with a false statement about yourself that others will believe you. I liken this game to what is going on in our society today. Many lies are being told that are being filtered from the truth. So, what is true and what is false these days? For many people, it is not easy to distinguish between the two.
The Basis of Truth for the Child of God
For centuries, the Bible has been recognized as God’s Word, yet in recent years, nonbelievers and skeptics tried to repudiate this truth. But, to know God is to accept and believe in His Word. Psalm 119:89 says, “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” This simply means that what God has spoken is permanent and enduring. In current societies, the modern cultures that dictate the lives of many try to silence the very existence and validity of the Word of God. However, this cannot be done. God’s word is so powerful and permanent that it can never be abolished or annulled. For the Christian believer, the Holy Bible is our roadmap that ensures we travel safely through this “barren land.”
The Word of God contains the truth of who God is and His redemption plan to mend the broken fellowship with humanity caused by sin. As the people of God, the foundation of our faith is the Word of God. It teaches us about sin, the salvation brought through Jesus Christ, and righteous living. It is the ultimate truth that defines life and creation. Many challenge the Bible’s veracity and authenticity, but precious few defend it. We who believe can no longer sit idly by and allow the world's deception to weaken the influence of God and His Word in our society. We must remember to diligently seek to know the word of our God so we can fight the lies of the enemy with truth. We must “ Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). It is imperative that we stand up and be heard declaring the whole counsel of God, witnessing to all that God is real and “holiness is still right.”
A Lying Spirit is Running Rampant in our Society Today
What is the driving force behind the troubles of our current times? The answer is deception. Many people have been deceived into believing there is more than one way to Heaven or that God does not expect us to strive for sanctification and holiness. But God will never negate what is already established in His Holy Word. In fact, Jesus admonished His disciples with these words, "Take heed that no man deceive you" (Matthew 24:4). During His earthly mission, Jesus Christ knew that in the end times, people would work diligently to deceive the masses. Because of this, some people will listen to Satan's lies and hesitate to believe in God and accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. On the other hand, others will accept false teaching and preaching as an excuse to live apart from the Word of God.
I John 4:2-3 says, Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
Deception is here. False prophets are flooding the social media circuits, and many people are ascribing to their teachings. God requires a holy life for all His people; however, many people are moving away from the standard of God. They live lifestyles that go against biblical principles, and as such, there is a great falling away. The Bible warns us in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 that this would happen before the return of Christ. God calls His people to take a stand against deception and live according to His truth.
You Must Decide
As followers of Christ, we must know what is happening in the world around us, socially and spiritually. What society deems as normal these days includes, but is not limited to, gender identity options, same-sex marriage, and pro-abortion rights. Although society may say it is right, God's Word says differently. We cannot be willfully ignorant of the deception that plagues our society through news media, social media, government, and educational systems. What society calls normal is the opposite of God's design for humanity.
Moreover, God has called us to live holy, no matter how strong the temptation to compromise. There is an authentic way to live for God, even though the world has created a false Christianity to mimic the true way of holiness. It is up to the individual which they will believe and follow.
How can you decipher between what is real Christianity versus unreal? Let us consider what God’s Word says about being a follower of Christ. In Luke 9:23, Jesus Christ says, “… If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Being a follower of Christ means sacrificing and denying one's own desires for the sake of doing God's will. Those who imitate Christianity are self-absorbed and make the Christian lifestyle all about themselves.
The people of God, those redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ, are in this world but not of this world. We are called to stand out, apart from the world's systems and ideologies. Our worldview should be based on the Word of God. If you are struggling with discerning what truth is versus what is fake in the world around you, I encourage you to ask God to give you clarity and more excellent knowledge of what His word teaches. God has a high expectation of His children. Lastly, we must be vigilant, “knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed” (Romans 13:11).
Scriptures make it clear the Holy Ghost is not an option but a necessity! The Apostle Paul encountered believers at Ephesus and asked them the famous question in Acts 19:2, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" Notice their response, "And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." They were unaware of the power of having the Holy Ghost in their lives, but when Paul informed them, they readily and humbly received the Holy Ghost's baptism.
Lastly, to receive the Holy Ghost, you must simply ask in faith. Everything received from God comes through the avenue of faith. Every blessing of every promise, including the gift of the Holy Ghost, is obtained by someone having faith in God. There is no magic dance, secret ritual, or a marathon of obstacles; it is just simple faith in God. This is what Jesus told a crowd in Luke 11:11-13, "If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?" Jesus appealed to their nature as parents. What parent would not seek to give their children necessities like food so that their child could live? Well, our heavenly Father is willing to give His children the Holy Ghost so that we can live! How soon are we to ‘make our requests known’ and believe God to move mountains based on His word and still deny ourselves what is indispensable to the task? In the same way that we can believe God for a miracle of healing, provision, or direction, we can believe and ask for the baptism of the Holy Ghost, and God will supply!
We need the Holy Ghost. Why? Without His power in our lives, we could not live a victorious life of obedience and holiness. By being filled with the Holy Ghost, we can be led into all truth, successfully resist the devil, and live pleasing to our heavenly Father. His presence within us produces the character of Jesus Christ, called the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. This fruit gives evidence of a changed life and a new creation resulting from faith in Jesus as Savior. By having the Holy Ghost indwelling and active in our lives, we can walk in the Spirit so as not to fulfill the lusts of the flesh, according to Galatians 5:16. You may be thinking, "How will I know I have the Holy Ghost?" Acts 2:4 says, "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." This is the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost. The Apostles spoke in a heavenly, untaught language that corroborated the experience of receiving the Holy Ghost. This is how we will know power has arrived in our lives.
Friend, this is a power we cannot afford to live without! Apostle Peter said this experience was not limited to them in the upper room but to all people. He says, "For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts 2:39). Remember this is not a preference but a requirement; not optional but vital. The Holy Ghost gives us access to the abundant life Christ has for us if we believe. If you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and have not experienced the baptism of the Holy Ghost, then right where you are, ask in faith and expect His presence to overshadow you and fill you. I guarantee you will never be the same!
Rewards of Obedience
If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land. (Isaiah 1:19)
Obedience is compliance with an order, request, or law¹. Supreme obedience is following the ordinances and commands of the Lord. Obedience is very important, especially in the life of a child of God. It ensures the protection and well-being of an individual. Being obedient keeps us in God's favor and shields us from the attacks of the enemy. When we are disobedient, we leave the 'safety zone' and become vulnerable to the land mines Satan has set up for us.
Obeying what God instructs us to do is the evidence of a true Christian. It shows that they love Christ, and it undoubtedly adds a blessing over their lives. ”He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me” (John 14:21)
Being obedient may seem like a hard task in many situations because it goes against our carnal nature, mind, and flesh. Most times, our obedience conflicts with our own will. Yet, in some instances, we will be criticized, threatened, and face opposition or consequences for our obedience, but following the instructions of the Lord will always prove to be the best option.
Obedience fulfills one's life and results in sincere satisfaction. On the other hand, disobedience always brings guilt and shame. Being obedient frees our conscience and allows us to feel complete, knowing we have done what the Lord commands.
When we are obedient to God, it gives us real joy! Joy is the passion or emotion excited by the acquisition of good, bringing delight to the mind². Joy is more than mere happiness, which may come and go with the changing of circumstances. Instead, joy is long-lasting and comes from serving and obeying the Lord. John 15:10-11 says: “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."
Obedience to God and His Word gives us benefits such as peace, favor, protection, healing, and restoration. The Bible has many examples of individuals who were blessed for obeying. One example is Abraham. Through his obedience to God,
By: D'Neara Watson
he left his home to journey to a land God told him He would show him. He did not know where God was leading him then but obeyed anyway. The Lord told Abraham, "That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore” (Genesis 22:17a).
Another example is Daniel. He obeyed God by praying to Him. Even though the King had decreed that no man could ask a petition from any God or man, anyone who disobeyed the decree would be thrown into a den of lions. Daniel prayed three times a day, as always, knowing the consequences. Because of his faithfulness to prayer, Daniel was thrown into the lion's den, but God shut the lions' mouths and prevented them from harming Daniel. He was brought out of the den, and God allowed him to prosper (Daniel 6). Thirdly, a widow woman who dwelt in Zarephath obeyed the Word of the Lord through the prophet Elijah. Although the land was facing a famine and she only had a handful of meal (flour) and a little oil, she made Elijah a cake first as instructed. God sustained the widow woman and her son. The barrel of meal and the cruse (pitcher) of oil did not run out! (1 Kings 17:924). Lastly, the greatest example of obedience to God is Jesus. He obeyed the Father and sacrificed His life to save humanity. He took on human form and came down to the earth to be crucified, and now He is seated at the right hand of God. Before He was crucified, His soul was sorrowful. Yet, Jesus still said, “Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42b). Because of Jesus’ obedience and submission, God has highly exalted Him and given Him a name that is above every name, and that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow (Philippians 2:7-11).
To live a fulfilled life in Jesus Christ, obedience is a necessity. By being obedient, our spirit man is keen to the will of God. “And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God” (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).
CITATIONS
¹ Oxford Dictionary
² Webster 1828
MUSICSpotlight GOD SENT MUSIC PODCAST
KeithonBibles
Why did you decide to start a podcast about gospel music?
I have always been a lover of gospel music since I was a kid. My siblings and I would wake up daily to our father playing gospel music on an old eighttrack machine. We would listen to people like the Hawkins Family, James Cleveland, and many other old gospel legends while getting ready for school. I also had an uncle who had a huge album collection, and quite often, I would go through his album collection for hours. For quite some time, I have been a fan of podcasts on various subjects, from music to politics. However, I noticed a lot of music podcasts did not touch on gospel music, likely because they felt it was music that hardly anyone listens to. Being a gospel music lover, I felt otherwise. I started studying and researching how to start a podcast and created the name "God Sent Music Podcast." From there, I started contacting various gospel artists and asking for interviews. And thus, my podcast began.
What have you learned from this opportunity to connect with others?
I learned that gospel music is bigger than what mainstream shows us. Also, there are tons of people who are lovers of gospel music, like me. I also learned that there are so many different styles of gospel music. No matter the style, whether it be CCM (contemporary Christian music) or choir music, it all shares the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
What do you enjoy the most about being a podcaster?
What I enjoy the most about being a podcaster is meeting, sitting, and talking with gospel artists whose music I grew up listening to and developed a love for. I have interviewed legendary songwriter Percy Bady and members of the group Commissioned, to name a few.
How did you go from playing musical instruments to being an audio tech and now a podcaster?
As early as I can remember, I have loved music. I began playing the trumpet in the sixth grade and continued until I graduated from high school. As a youth, I also played the trumpet at church in the church band; we would play every third Sunday night. As I got older, I noticed different bass lines on gospel projects, which led me to purchase my first bass. I taught myself how to play. As time passed, I became interested in music production and the structure of songs. As a result, I went back to school and obtained a degree in Commercial Music and Recording Technology. Shortly after that, I became a podcaster. Starting a podcast is something I was not initially looking to do, but my love for gospel music inspired me to start it.
What keeps you grounded in your faith and trust in God?
My upbringing has kept me grounded in my faith and trust in God. I grew up in the Full Gospel Holy Temple ministry and was raised in holiness. My parents were saved and taught my siblings and me to keep God first and to be humble. I also remember being taught that no problem is too hard for God and that He is always with me. Every day, I start my day off the same way: by listening to gospel music, which reminds me of my upbringing.
Who has been your most memorable guest on your podcast?
Dr. Johnathan DuBose Jr. is a legendary guitarist who has played with gospel legends such as the Hawkins Family, Kim Burrell, Donnie McClurkin, Fred Hammond, and many others.
How do you intentionally celebrate and share your faith through this podcast?
Through my podcast, I share my faith by not being ashamed to let people know where I came from. I also let people know that I listen to gospel music and convey its real meaning, which is to magnify and praise the name of Jesus.
Who are your top 3 favorite gospel artists of all time, and why?
#1 Is Fred Hammond: I grew up listening to Commissioned, and he is the reason why I picked up the bass guitar.
#2 CeCe Winans: I love her voice and worship.
#3 Jonathan McReynolds: He has a way of setting the atmosphere for praise and worship, like no other.
What excites you most about gospel music?
Why is it special to you?
What excites me the most about gospel music is that it is another way of praising and lifting up our God and telling people the good news of Jesus Christ. I also love that there are so many genres and types of gospel music, such as choir, quartet, and many other styles.
What encouragement can you give to others who are looking for an opportunity to contribute or work in the kingdom of God?
Go for it! Everybody cannot preach like the pastor or sing like a heavenly angel, but God gave us all a gift that contributes to the Kingdom of God. Mine is gospel music. Whether it is me playing my bass, mixing and editing music, or just talking about music on my podcast, I enjoy all there is to gospel music. I truly believe this is the gift God gave me. Also, do not let anyone discourage you from pursuing your passion; if you do, you will miss out on what God has for you.
Find and follow "God Sent Music Podcast."
Facebook: God Sent Music Podcast
Instagram: @godsentmusic123
YouTube: God Sent Music Podcast
Email: godsentmusic@outlook.com
Cornbread Casserole
By: Joyce Bradley
Ingredients
1 - ½ lb. ground beef or ground turkey
1 - medium bell pepper
1 - medium diced onion
1 - 10 oz. can of diced tomatoes & green chilies
1 - 14 oz. can of diced tomatoes
1 - 16 oz can of pinto beans (drained)
2 - 14.75 oz cans of cream corn
1 - package chili powder
1 - 8 oz can of tomato sauce
1 - 8 oz block of pasteurized cheese
1 - 10 oz frozen mixed vegetables
1 - 10 oz frozen green beans
1 - 10 oz frozen corn
1 - 8 oz can of tomato paste
3 - 8 oz bags of shredded cheese
(Mexican Four Cheese, Monterey Jack, Mild Cheddar)
2 - boxes/packages of cornbread mix
Cooking Instructions
Preheat oven to 350° F
Meat Mixture
Sauté the meat, onion, and bell pepper in a skillet
Then add: diced tomatoes, pinto beans (drained), cream corn, chili powder, tomato sauce, pasteurized cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, frozen green beans, frozen corn, and tomato paste in one pot and one 8 oz cup of water.
Season to taste, with your preferred seasonings
If mixture is too thick, add water/milk
Cook over a low heat (stir occasionally to avoid sticking)
Once mixture is hot, add cheese and stir
Cornbread Mix
Follow the instructions on cornbread mix
Once mixed, pour half into a 13x9 non-stick pan, then meat and meat and cheese mix
Pour the remaining half of the cornbread mix on top
Place pan into the oven and cook until cornbread is done and golden brown.
Let casserole cool for 10 mins
Then serve and enjoy.
(Approx. 9-12 servings)
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NEXT ISSUE
Who is Jesus Christ?
He is more than Mary’s baby, more than a man, a religious scholar, or a prophet. Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Simply put, He is the only hope for the world today. In the next issue, we will explore the purpose of His coming, the impact of His life, and the crucial importance of understanding why everybody ought to know who Jesus is.
CALL TO Salvation Salvation
Dear friend,
Inside every person's heart, there is a void we try to fill with the pleasures of this world.
However, in reality, that void can only be filled by God. He wants to give you a life filled with joy, hope, and peace that the world cannot provide. Come to God. He welcomes you in with open arms. In John 6:37, the Bible says “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." God loves you so much that He sent His only Son to die for you. Even if you were the only person on Earth, Jesus would have still died for you so that you may live with Him forever. That is just how much He loves you! If you are ready to surrender all and give your life to God, then say this prayer:
Prayer:
God, I am sorry for everything I have done in my life that was not like you. I repent of all my sins. I believe in my heart and confess out of my mouth that Jesus is Lord. I believe He died for my sins and rose again on the third day. I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Save me and fill me with your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
It is just that simple! The Bible states in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Now that you have repented, God has given you a new heart filled with His joy and peace. Go forward and live according to Psalm 63:8. Follow hard after God. Welcome to your new life in Christ!
