G-Level Marketplace Christians

June 2019 | Issue 1

Marketplace Christians

G LEVEL

Impact wisdom and sustainability

Style Movies Travel Resources

8 Foods To Eat to Fight Stress Relief

Agriculture “The New Oil� by Lawrence Schaefer

Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi

Actor T.C. Stalling A story about Christian faith in Hollywood.

The 7 Spheres of Influence There are 7 spheres or seven areas of any society that influences a family and a country as a whole. Find out more through our article. page 17

by Cameron Casey 1Photograph | G-Level June 2019

Published by G-Level Media

Change Your Mind, Change Your Habits Find creative recipes to assist you in your transformation

Focus on sustainable, local and natural food product.

2 | G-Level

June 2019

t ab l e o f Contents page 32

Features 06 Every Environment Requires Criteria

by Dr. Cheryl A Hill

10 Changing The 80/20 Rule in The 9 to 5 Window

by Os Hillman

12 8 Foods to Fight Stress

by Arati Shah

14 Interview with Becky Dewitt •Author •Breakthrough Strategist • Advisor

by Eddrena Hood-Davis

17 What is Your ROI?

by Daun Williamson

28 Tarry Until God Comes

by Rhonda Jones

30 “Your Voice Is Necessary”

by Dr. Cheryl A Hill

31 The 7 Spheres of Influence

by Dr. Cheryl Hill

35 8 Effective Tips to Become

Excellent in The Marketplace

by Dr. Cheryl A Hill

Spotlight 32 ‘I Want to Glorify God’: Actor’s Powerful Act Before Talking Roles

by Billy Hallowell

18 The 21st Century

37 Agriculture

Entrepreneur Woman

by Lavonya Jones

“The New Oil”

by Lawrence Schaefer

20 How To Get Out of Debt and

Resources

38 Resources & Tips for

Stay Out

by Gord and Gertie Guide

22 9-11 | The Day I Lived

by Apostle Victoria Lockhart

26 The Difference Between Fashion and Style

3 | G-Level

by Aditya Tripathi

June 2019

Building Your Platform

Marketplace Christians

Ed ito r’ s N ot e Our June Issue: Every Sphere of Influence Counts In each issue of our magazine we would like to bring to our readers topics of interest from every sphere of influence. It is extremely important to me and our team that we are facilitators of information that “impacts” the lives of those that have given their life to Christ and to those that have not yet come unto Jesus know Him as Lord and Saviour.

Our motto is “You Are Valuable Right Where You Are”. So many people in the Kingdom of God do not understand their purpose and they do not have the understanding that God will use you in the sphere of influence that you currently work. We take pride in bringing to our readers practical, informative and insightful information. Our assignment as the G-Level Team is to equip Christians and to help bring understanding of the necessity to have a balanced life while impacting the marketplace. We provide resources and links to assist you in building a strong foundation for your business, ministry and your personal life. We have articles that suggest to you that it is alright to take time to relax and relieve accumulated stress. God never meant for us to lead stress filled lives.

We step into innovative areas of interest such as agriculture. Without agriculture we would die.

Agriculture also provides a great source of wealth to various countries. Agriculture can not only leave a legacy but it can and has become the main economic driver for many countries.

Our movie selection is a great one. Take the time with your family or other groups and relax and have fun.

We hope that you enjoy our G-Level Magazine and share it with a friend.

Strength In Your Work

Dr Cheryl A. Hill Dr Cheryl A. Hill Executive-In-Chief 4 | G-Level

June 2019

G LEVEL

Impact wisdom and sustainability June 2019

| Issue 1

For Advertising Information call Mrs. Eddrena Hood Davis (910) 220-7130 Editor-In-chief Dr. Cheryl A. Hill Contributors Lawrence Schaefer Dr. Lavonya Jones Arati Shah Os Hillman Gord and Gertie Guide Aditya Tripathi Apostle Victoria Lockhart Billie Hallowell Ads and Subscription Eddrena Hood-Davis Graphic Designer Linda Chon Subscribe To subscribe to G-Level Magazine, visit us online at www. To purchase individual issues, visit www.issuu. com.

We love to hear from you Please send your comments or letters by email to glwvelmarketplace@gmail.com Disclaimer

G-Level magazines are published semi-annually Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer. All rights and Prints are reserved for G-Level Christian Marketplace Leaders Group. Publishing and reproduction without permission is prohibited. A request must be submitted to reproduce material contained in G-Level publications. We use reasonable efforts to ensure all information is accurate and correct at all times. G-Level Christian Marketplace Leaders Group does not endorse or assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy of information or advertising. G-Level is not liable for any direct, incidental, consequential, indirect, or punitive damages, arising out of access or use of the publication and website. Due to an increase in all costs associated with producing the magazine, subscription and magazine fees are subject to change.

Melinda’s SWEET Creations https://melindagrayson100.wixsite.com/sweetcreations

Order & Eat Can’t wait to greet you!

Call 571-606-7915 WE SHIP IN THE U.S 5 | G-Level

June 2019

Every Environment Requires Criteria written by Dr Cheryl A. Hill

Working in the marketplace requires a unique combination of faith, excellence and compassion. Many times as a believer of Jesus Christ we sometimes confuse witnessing the gospel in “one” boxed package. When we are among our congregations we all can generally speak the same languages of faith and understand the motives of hearts.

When we are among people of different faiths, cultures and backgrounds “our” beliefs are put to the test of “being in the world and not of the world”. This means that you walk among many people sharing “Jesus” through means of compassion, justice, a spirit of excellence and more importantly love.

6 | G-Level

June 2019

I have worked in the “sphere of influence of government” for over 15 years. I have worked from the ranks of a clerk to the heights of Office of the White House as the liaison for my state for Faith Based Initiatives.

Over the 5 years of interacting with government, grassroots and faith leaders I have found that we all have the same common goal and that is to serve our communities. How we get there and communicate is what I call the “struggle in between”. For some reason we have separated the Church from government and the government from the Church. When people would say to me that we can’t work with the government I would then say but I am the government as well. God has placed people such as me in every area of influence

and we have learned to walk in both worlds without compromising our Godliness. We are “standards” in these arenas of influence. If we are not there then there are no measurements to be had.

Just as our brothers in the faith such as Daniel, Moses and Joseph have shown us that we have to learn how to “enter an environment” to be seen and heard I have learned that every environment has criteria.

When we are sent into the marketplace we have to understand that everyone is not a believer of God. This requires that we become all that God is. In doing this we witness the excellence, care and wisdom of God in practical ways. It is absurd to come into the midst of those that are Muslim and say “praise the Lord” but we can say “good morning”. We should not go to a business meeting with flamboyant clothing expecting someone to take us seriously. There is a standard of dressing to enter into a business meeting and to be taken seriously. We must use practical ways to set the atmosphere to be heard. We cannot go into a government or corporate meeting and say “wait a minute let’s pray first”. You should have already prayed and asked God’s guidance and wisdom and proceed to administer the wisdom of God through your work and expertise. If your colleagues or business partners desire prayer God will open the door for you to do so. Once we are established as people who are wise and can “add value” we then become vessels to be used as ears to listen to our colleagues challenges, we are free to administer words of wisdom and become known as ones with solutions. We then become answers in a safe environment.

I have learned over the years that people “see” before they “hear”. If you come to people with the HAMMER of the word of God they will resist you and all that you may have to offer.

If you are a Christian whose work is less than excellent, who is always preaching and not completing your work then it is hard to listen to anything you would have to say. If you are a Christian whose standards are that of lateness and your dress code is shoddy it will be hard to listen to you as well. If you are a Christian 7 | G-Level

June 2019

who entertains drinking, happy hour and office gossip you then become one hard to listen to. Your standards are always measured by your daily habits. Who you are will show up in your sphere of influence at some time or another.

I have had the honor and favor of God to meet with and minister to people who I have always admired from afar and God so wonderfully led them to me to speak into their lives. Today I am a spiritual advisor to many in the government, ministry and now the arts & entertainment arena.

These people were not attracted to me because they knew of my ministry, that I worked in the Executive Office of government or was a conference speaker.

Each person that I advised met me through divine encounters that God set up through my extension of compassion and excellence. They later found out my background.

Let us stay in the presence of worship as God places us in pivotal and strategic places of influence to show forth our God in practical ways.

Where Worship Meets the Marketplace

The

G-Level Experience

What is the G-vLevel Experience? It is about godly strategic planning, promotion, resourcing, international engagement, marketplace influences and implementation. It is the process of rethinking who you are, what your position is, where you are going, and how you will impact the lives of people, communities and nations.

Our Vision: To bridge and unify the work between faith-based leaders and marketplace leaders; and to socially, economically, and spiritually impact leaders, communities, business, government, and entertainment.

Our Mission: • To bring added value and holistic influence to leaders from all walks of life • To rethink, redefine, and influence the community, church, business, government, education, media, and arts and entertainment industry • To effectively equip leaders serving within their respective fields of influence • To establish accountability standards and strategies in leadership • To impact communities, cities, and nations with Godly integrity and principles Visit us at www.glevelmktplace.com

Marketplace Christians

G LEVEL

Impact wisdom and sustainability

Become a G-Level Member Membership Includes: • • • • •

8

G-Level G Level Certificate Certificate Tool Kits Monthly E-Books Prayer Team A Prophetic Blessing

Just $99.00 Yearly | G-Level Juneglevelmktplace@gmail.com 2019 Inquire:

Friday - Saturday

| October 11 th - 12 th , 2019

2019 Christian Marketplace Leadership Gathering “Becoming the Added Value in the Marketplace” -Daniel 1

Schedule

Who Should Attend • Business Leaders • Ministry Leaders • Government Leaders • Educators • Health Professionals • Entrepreneurs • All Welcome

Marketplace Christians

G LEVEL

Impact wisdom and sustainability

Day One: Meet & Greet 6 pm - 9 pm October 11, 2019

June 2019

Admission $30.00 Continental Breakfast Lite lunch

Venue: Long Bay Resort Ballroom 7200 North Ocean Blvd Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 Day Two: Marketplace Gathering G-Level Gathering for Christian Marketplace Leaders October 12, 2019 Venue: Ocean Reef Resort Ball Room 7100 N. Ocean Blvd Myrtle Beach SC 29572

Book Now Contact EddrenaHood Davis: glevelmktplace@gmail.com

9 | G-Level

General Registration

Vendors Emerging and established entrepreneurs and business owners!

Fee $90.00 Table

Registration Food

|

www.glevelmktplace.com

Changing the 80/20 Rule in the 9 to 5 Window written by Os Hillman There is a quiet revolution taking place among Christians who are looking at their work differently.

goal of this movement? I believe the goal is societal transformation.

What does the Billy Graham organization, the North American Mission Board, Wagner Leadership Institute, Harvest Evangelism, and some megachurches throughout North America have in common as of 2003? They all began a new focus on workplace ministry in 2003.

Where do you spend most of your time?

Let me ask you a question. Where do the majority of people spend the majority of time interacting with the majority of unsaved people? Is it in the neighborhood?

Is it in the local church? No, it is where most people spend 60-70% of their waking hours - the workplace.

Dr. Billy Graham has said “I believe one of the next moves of God will be through believers in the workplace.”

Consider these Facts about the Ministry Life of Jesus:

The 80/20 rule says that 80% of ministry will be done by 20% of the people. This would probably accurately describe where the Church is today. We’ve heard about the unreached people groups in the 10/40

Dr. Billy Graham has said “I believe one of the next moves of God will be through believers in the workplace.” window, but have we really considered the unreached people group in the “9 to 5 window?” This group of people has the power to impact society because they often hold positions of influence in society. The Lord has quietly begun a move among Christians in the workplace that has been getting national press even among secular business publications like the New York Times and Fortune magazine. The

10 | G-Level

June 2019

• Of Jesus’ 132 public appearances in New Testament, 122 were in the marketplace.

• Of 52 parables Jesus told, 45 had a workplace context.

• Of 40 divine interventions recorded in Acts, 39 were in the marketplace.

• Jesus spent his adult life as a carpenter until age 30 before he went into a preaching ministry in the workplace.

• Jesus called 12 workplace individuals, not clergy, to build His church.

• Work in its different forms is mentioned more than 800 times in the Bible, more than all the words used to express worship, music, praise, and singing combined.

• 54% of Jesus’ reported teaching ministry arose out of issues posed by others in the scope of daily life experience.

• A Gallup Poll revealed that more than

50% of people surveyed said that discussed spiritual issues with a fellow worker over a 24 hour period.

Are We Really Getting the Job Done?

Now let me share some other disturbing facts in how we are equipping men and women to live out their faith in the workplace. A Wall Street Journal survey revealed a 50% dissatisfaction rate among executives and an 80% job dissatisfaction rate among general workplace population. Among 500 surveys taken among Christians it revealed a 50% job dissatisfaction rate. Doug Sherman, author of Your Work Matters to God said, “If Christ is not Lord of my work, He will never be Lord of my family.” These figures reveal a lack of purpose between our work and faith lives. And a survey done by the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity found that 47% of those surveyed said that teaching and preaching they receive is irrelevant to their daily life. Finally, Sherman also found that 90-97% of Christians have never been taught to apply biblical faith to their work life.”

If we are going to see our society changed for Jesus Christ we will have to change the way we equip believers to live out their faith where they spend a majority of their time.

One Man God Used to Bring Transformation to the U.S. The year, 1857 Jeremiah Lanphier was a New York City businessman who wanted to do something significant for God. In a small darkened room, in the back of one of the city’s lesser churches, he prayed alone, making a simple request of God; a simple request that was ultimately earth-shattering: “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?”

He saw his work as a holy calling from God and began a marketplace prayer meeting on September 23, 1857. The meetings began slowly, but within a few 11 | G-Level

June 2019

months, 20 noonday meetings were convening daily throughout the city.

The New York Tribune and The New York Herald issued articles on the meetings, officially making them the city’s biggest news. Now a full-fledged revival, it spread outside New York, and by the spring of 1858, 2000 workers met daily in Chicago’s Metropolitan Theatre, and in Philadelphia, the meetings mushroomed into a four-month long tent meeting.

Meetings were held in Baltimore, Washington, Cincinnati, Chicago, New Orleans, and Mobile.

Thousands met to pray because one man stepped out. Annus Mirabilis, the year of national revival, had begun. It was an extraordinary move of God through one man, and it started in the workplace, led by a Christian in the workplace - a group long considered the least prone to any form of evangelical fervor.

I believe the early seed of this is beginning in our nation and its starting in the most unlikely place - the 9 to 5 window!

Os Hillman is president of Marketplace Leaders and the International Coalition of Workplace Ministries and FaithandWorkResources.com. He is author of TGIF Today God Is First daily email devotional www. marketplaceleaders.org that is subscribed to by 80,000 people daily and author of nine books. ICWM will be hosting a major summit for marketplace leaders and church leaders October 26-29 in Minneapolis. For more on this and other articles on God’s move in the workplace visit www.icwm.net.

For additional reading on this topic we suggest Faith & Work: Do They Mix? by Os Hillman

8 Foods to Fight Stress written by Arati Shah We feel wrung often by the stressors in our daily life.

And, stress affects the food choices that we make.

The most often foods that one picks up in stress are foods high in fat, sugary foods and drinks. The vending machines seem the easiest choice instead of looking out for the healthier options. Also, the grocery aisles and the advertisements are always displaying the nutrient deficient foods which are always tempting to buy instead of the healthy food choices. So, the first strategy in weight loss programs is restricting or avoiding the intake of processed and junk foods.

Under stress - whether it is work, study or a relation, dietary habits change substantially. Some people lose

choices will help stabilize blood sugar levels and your emotional response. Good nutrition helps in balancing your stress hormones, relieving stress and boosting your mood.

Here are 8 foods to reach out for when you have just about had enough which will calm and soothe you.

OATS: Being a complex carbohydrate, oatmeal causes your brain to produce serotonin, a feel- good chemical.

Serotonin calms you down and makes you feel good. Oats are also rich in beta- glucan, which help in lowering blood cholesterol level and also help in weight management.

In fact, making the right food choices will help stabilize blood sugar levels and your emotional response. Good nutrition helps in balancing your stress hormones, relieving stress and boosting your mood. their hunger when under stress whilst others tend to overeat - most often fatty, sugary and junk foods.

Always blaming stress for making poor food choices is not the right approach. In fact, making the right food 12 | G-Level

June 2019

NUTS: Nuts help replenish Vitamin B stores that are depleted in stress. The B vitamins help us manage the fight or flight response in stress. The potassium in nuts also helps keep the blood pressure in check thus

reducing the strain on the heart.

SALMON: Eating salmon on a regular basis has been linked to reducing the risk of getting depression because of the omega 3 fatty acids present in it. It can reduce stress and anxiety in individuals when eaten even twice a week.

LEAFY GREENS: Leafy greens contain folate that produces dopamine in your brain. Dopamine is involved in the emotional regulation in the brain thus keeping you happy. Besides folate, magnesium in the leafy greens also helps in keeping us calm and good.

SEEDS: Seeds like the sunflower seeds, flax seeds, watermelon seeds, etc have stress-reducing benefits.

These tiny powerhouses are rich in magnesium that promotes a healthy nervous system. They also are full of tryptophan which is an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin that helps you feel calm.

LENTILS & BEANS: Being stressed can be detrimental to your nerve health. Lentils and beans are rich in magnesium, folate and potassium which help calm the nerves, reduce anxiety and promote brain health.

Researchers have found that eating a diet of processed, sugary and fatty foods increases the chances of stress and depression. So, as a general rule steer away from these foods if you are looking to improve your mood. Eating a healthy diet not only helps in maintaining a healthy body weight but also helps in keeping the moods in order. Café Nutrition with their weight loss clinic in Mumbai offer weight loss in Mumbai and over the world through their online and offline nutrition services.

AVOCADOS: Avocados are rich in the stress relieving B vitamins, Vitamin C and folate. They also contain potassium that naturally helps in lowering blood pressure. This makes them one of the best foods for relieving stress and anxiety.

MILK: Milk contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid which is a precursor for the neurotransmitter Serotonin. Serotonin is a “feel good” chemical known to promote relaxation and calm in a person. And, milk taken with another carbohydrate will help in the absorption of tryptophan.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Arati Shah is an expert nutritionist who crafts personalized weight loss programs at Café Nutrition. Having earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition along with a Post-Graduation in Sports Sciences and Nutrition from S.N.D.T Juhu, she runs one of the top weight loss clinic in Mumbai. She heads the team of weight loss in Mumbai and takes a personal interest in each and every client of Café Nutrition.

G-Level

Talk Programs Be a Talk Program Host Gain an International Platform Gain a Voiceprint Join Other Marketplace Leaders

For more information contact: glevelmktplace@gmail.com 13 | G-Level June 2019

$75.00 Monthly

Interview with Becky Dewitt

Author · Breakthrough Strategist · Advisor written by Eddrena Hood-Davis G Level: Ms. DeWitt, we know that you are an author, Minister, Mother and Change Agent. Can you tell us how you find the time and how God uses you to write?

Ms. DeWitt: I have been writing for over 20 years.

I am not one who schedules my times to write but I truly wait for an unction from God to write. It may be 12 noon or 9 p.m. when I sense that I should write and then I do. In all of my writings you will know Jesus in a practical way. I write about trials and tribulations so that people will understand that we all have trials but I also give them hope on how to overcome the trials through my writings.

G Level: You are known for your book series Destiny’s Closet. Tell us a bit more about this book series.

Ms. DeWitt: In 2008 I published my first children’s short story, “Destiny’s Closet,” which developed into a book by 2009. “Destiny’s Closet” teaches children the importance of developing a personal relationship with God. The success and well-reception of “Destiny’s Closet” inspired me to follow-up with a sequel, titled, “Destiny’s Closet -Circle of Friends,” which was published in November 2010. “Destiny’s Closet Circle of Friends” continues the adventures of Destiny, Becca, and Mauri and their growing relationship with 14 | G-Level

June 2019

Jesus. The inspiration continues for the third book in the Destiny’s Closet Series, “Destiny’s Closet - The Wonder School.” In 2017, I partnered with Club Christ Ministries as they were on a missions trip and sent the Destiny’s Closet Series to Jamaica.

G Level: You are a Minister of the Gospel too..how do you fit all of this into your busy schedule?

Ms. DeWitt: My life is a combination of “assignments” which God really gives me grace for. I was never one without several things going on at a time. The way that I am wired with all the creativity that God has placed in me, makes it so that His grace gives me balance to do all that I am assigned.

G Level: What does it mean to you for a Christian in the marketplace to make an impact?

Ms. DeWitt: Over the past two years God has brought understanding to me by knowing that a Christian is VALUABLE RIGHT WHERE THEY ARE. Many times Christians sense a call on their lives and immediately think that they have to go to Theology School or the like. I now understand that we are to make an impact in whatever sphere of influence God has us in until we know for certain that we are called to the five fold ministry. If Christians were to be found only in

the House of God, we would then have no impact on those that don’t know Christ. Our daily lifestyle should be a road map to Christ. Our integrity, strategies, ethics and wisdom should be our billboard to what God has equipped us with. We should be “sought out” because of Who we serve and the gifts of God that operate through us. Any company or organization should increase because we are there.

G Level: Wow! That is a mouth full. You are absolutely a member of G level. You encompass exactly what G Level Christian Marketplace Group is about.

What are you currently working on?

Ms. DeWitt: My latest book is a “blockbuster”. God gave me a Christian suspense novel to write. The book is called “Contempt”. The book is about lies, deceit and a miracle! I am getting great reviews about it.

There are women, men, an 83 year old woman and others reading this book. I am so excited because everyone that has gotten the book said that they could not put the book down.

G Level: We are very proud of you and your work.

We believe that it is important for Christians to be in every sphere of influence to make an impact.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR The vision of her company, Blood Drop Inheritance Group, is to pen those words of inspiration and revelation from the throne room for all generations. Becky is a member of Tree of Life Ministries, under the leadership of Pastor Elaine W. Green.

Becky lives and works in Myrtle Beach, SC. http://www.bdig-beckydewitt.org/ The “Destiny’s Closet” series are available at www.authorhouse.com. A library of Becky DeWitt’s writings are stored on the Authors Den website (www.authorsden. com/beckydewitt). In addition, Becky has contributed articles for several websites and magazines such as the Written Voices website (http://writtenvoicesblog.com) under The Journey Column, The Christian Voice Magazine, which is published and distributed in the Carolinas. Becky served as an Editorial Consultant for the launching of Devine Glory Magazine based out of the Florence, SC. She also works with The Columbia Writer’s Alliance Group, www.colawriters.com.

The arts & entertainment arena is one of the most influential arena and yet the Christian world has not made great impact as of yet. What do you sense about this?

Ms. DeWitt: I sense that the arts & entertainment arena affects our eye & ear gates and because we as the Church have not focused on the spheres of influences that affect our society, we who have been given dominion have abdicated our authority in many of these areas.

“Contempt” can be found on Amazon.

15 | G-Level

June 2019

Marketplace Christians

G LEVEL

Impact wisdom and sustainability

G - LEVEL

CHRISTIAN MARKETPLACE LEADERS GROUP INTERNATIONAL

Connect With Us www.glevelmktplace.com

https://www.linkedin.com/ln/glevel-christian-marketplace-group57624617a/

16 | G-Level

June 2019

What is your ROI? written by Daun Williamson

ROI is your Return on Investment. When you truly invest yourself in an assignment, a relationship or your job you truly expect something in return for your time and labor. If you are employed you EXPECT a paycheck. If you are in a relationship or have children you EXPECT some type of affection. You are not made to give, give, give, you have an EXPECTATION of a return on the inside of you.

For many years I would give, give, give and then within myself say oh, that’s ok I just love to give. TODAY God is saying to some of you to lift your EXPECTATION! I am not saying to do things with a manipulative purpose or let greed be your motive. A promise by God is a promise that He will keep.

If you have invested in houses, land, children God said that you can expect 100 fold return in this lifetime (now), only if you left or set aside anything for His name and the gospel. If you are saddened Jesus said cast your burden upon Him so that you can walk a stress less….EXPECT a lifting. God said when you

17 | G-Level

June 2019

attend to the poor (giving clothing, food, advice, housing) He will repay you, EXPECT Him to repay all that you have put in.

Today, some of you will need to just shake yourself a little and “get your mind right”! Get yourself together and DO NOT expect anything less than dunamis power, multiplication, favor, grace, the unconditional love of God and so much more. These promises are practical and not far off.

“If you change your mind you will change your FUTURE”…. Live expecting!

The 21st Century Entrepreneur Woman written by Lavonya Jones A “NOW” Gaeneration Business Strategist and Leadership Coach

“Women are the great untapped resource that can help the global economy recover and expand.” ~Hillary Clinton Women entrepreneurs are the fastest growing group of business owners in the U.S. A recent study on women-led businesses showed that women own 29% of small business but only bring in 4% of all U.S. revenue and 6% of U.S. jobs. It has also been reported

Many studies have proven that many women doubt their capability to own a business. For those of us that do take the leap of faith into business ownership, we still undervalue and undersell ourselves. Another issue that keeps women from leading in the marketplace is our tendency to feel like we have to be it all and do it all. Are these struggles you’ve dealt with? I know they have been in my own business? So what can be done about it.

“Women are the great untapped resource that can help the global economy recover and expand.” ~Hillary Clinton that only 2% of women-owned business earn $1 million or more in annual revenue.

Even though the barriers and costs to small business ownership have never been lower, we still have a lot to do in increasing the amount of women leading in the marketplace. Even with our increasing presence as business owners, why are our numbers so low?

18 | G-Level

June 2019

I believe that any great accomplishment in life starts with identity. We must see ourselves as the powerful and graceful women that we are. God has placed everything we need on the inside of us to dominate in the arena that He has called us to. We don’t have to act like men to lead! Our femininity and grace is our advantage! We can move mountains! We can have EXTREMELY profitable businesses! We can change the world!

As 21st Century Entrepreneur Women we have to be confident in ourselves and own the greatness of God within us! We have to own our skills, talents, and accomplishments, and NEVER apologize for the value we bring. My own journey to entrepreneurship has been a challenging one marked by many twist and turns, but what keeps me focused is keeping my gaze on the opportunities instead of the obstacles.

We live in economic times where it is vital to our financial survival that we have multiple streams of income. I’m a firm believer that even if you have a job you should still use your gifts and talents to create other streams of income for yourself through some type of business venture; even if it’s just a blog.

Success never happens in isolation, but always inside of community. So inspire yourself by keeping before you those women entrepreneurs who have successfully paved the way for you. Let those who are successful in similar areas to those you desire to go in be a constant source of motivation for you. Also, join a community of other women entrepreneurs where you can be held accountable and encouraged. It is absolutely imperative to find a group of other women entrepreneurs who share similar aspirations as you.

Have a clear vision of where you desire to be and develop collaborative teams and joint ventures with other like-minded entrepreneurs to get there. Lastly, learn the laws and language of your chosen industry and then reinvent the rules. Be a trendsetter by always being one step ahead. Do your research, but follow your gut! Don’t second guess yourself and NEVER settle for less than what you know you deserve.

It is our time women entrepreneurs. The world is waiting on you 21st Century Entrepreneur Woman!

You are the solution to someone’s problem. Recognize the treasure you hold inside, take the leap into the marketplace, and seek the top! Don’t stop until you get it. Remember, success happens in community. So to quote Nell Merlino of Count Me In, “You can have it

19 | G-Level

June 2019

all as long as you don’t do it all.” Go forth 21st Century Entrepreneur Woman and live your dreams! The time is NOW!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lavonya Jones is a fierce new generation Business Strategist and Leadership Coach with over fourteen years of business, ministry, and leadership experience. Armed with a passion to challenge the status quo within the upcoming generation, she is on a mission to bridge the gap and equip leaders around the world with the spiritual and practical tools they need to fulfill God’s dream for their lives. Lavonya has a B.S. in Entrepreneurship from Hampton University, a M.A. in Organizational Leadership (with a Concentration in Coaching and Mentoring) from Regent University and is a Doctoral Candidate for an Ed. D in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University.

A powerhouse businesswoman, Lavonya is also a sought-after seminar speaker, a Christian thought leader, author, and entrepreneur that will help revolutionize your life, business, ministry or youth program.

How To Get Out of Debt and Stay Out written by Gord and Gertie Guide

The recent downturn in the global economy has pushed many people to the edge of financial crisis more than ever before. There isn’t a person on the planet who has not suffered at the hands of this recession. We have all heard of the large and small businesses that have been affected but it has also hit home in our local communities where budgets have been cut and programs lost. With all of this, many families have suffered the fallout.

No matter what the scale, we have become accustom to debt and lost the ability to see clearly the consequences of unwise financial decisions and a

but incredibly difficult to break.

Talking with someone you trust can help you make the changes into redistributing your income in a smarter way. By taking control of how we spend, we are controlling how much we can save and this can be one of the best ways to reduce your family’s level of financial stress.

Creating Your Financial Plan The first step is to divide all income into four main categories;

“It’s time to take a good hard look in our own lives at what we can do to get back on the right track and rebuild a solid financial foundation. heavy debt. It’s time to take a good hard look in our own lives at what we can do to get back on the right track and rebuild a solid financial foundation.

Prevention Is the Best Medicine Everyone needs to create their own Financial Plan.

It may sound like a daunting task but in reality it’s all about planning. By setting the time aside to discuss with a professional you can begin to outline your financial goals and plan for unexpected events that are bound to arise throughout the years.

Unfortunately, many people avoid the reality of the unexpected and without an emergency fund, they add to their debt load with more credit to make ends meet. This type of cycle can not only be overwhelming 20 | G-Level

June 2019

Fixed Expenses - These are expenses that do not change, such as rent, mortgage, insurance, and vehicle payments. There are seldom changes with these expenses and are often the lions share of the monthly income.

Variable Expenses - This is how we manage our lives with food, bills, childcare, transportation, repairs, entertainment, etc... The more we stay away from using credit cards in this area, the more successful we will be in the long term.

Savings - This is where we need to build a growing cushion to cover unexpected future needs. It’s important to be disciplined here. An easy way to manage this is to choose an amount as a percentage

of your income. A good rule of thumb is 10 - 20% of your monthly net income. Once the amount is decide you must be diligent by having the savings withdrawn automatically and into an account that will earn interest without risk.

Debt Repayment - This is as important as your savings in recovering from a heavy debt load. This includes credit cards balances, store credits, outstanding loans, penalties and fees. Never pay just the minimum balance on your credit cards and pay off the highest interest bearing loan first. When you have paid down one debt, add the extra cash that’s now available onto the next high interest loan and continue the pattern until you are completely debt free.

In understanding the basics in creating a financial plan, you are building a solid foundation that will leave you less vulnerable to the uncertainties of life.

By implementing a few key strategies and living within your means, you are being proactive and staying in control of your finances. And this is the key to getting out of debt, and staying out.

21 | G-Level

June 2019

About The Author Got a burning question on getting out and staying out of debt? Grandpa Gord and Grandma Gertie put a sensible spin on expert advice, with a little humor thrown into the mix. We cover topics ranging from pets to parenting, careers to hobbies, relationships to lifestyle, finances to food, and everything in between. Visit us at http://www.sensibleguides.com for some simple and straight from the hip advice from people who’ve been around the block a few times.

The author invites you to visit: http://www. sensibleguides.com

9-11 | The Day I Lived written by Apostle Victoria Lockhart September 11, 2001, 8:45 a.m. The date and time that changed the complexion of my life forever. As many times as God had spared me from the most dire circumstances and situations, this day my Dad showed off His true love for me.

Let’s rewind to a date and time several years before 9-11. I had a dream very similar to the events that took place that day at World Trade Center. I dreamt of a huge, dark, gray cloud of smoke shaped like what seemed to be the Hand of God. People were running, screaming and crying and I was just standing on the sidewalk saying to the people who were running, “Why are you running? It’s only God. Don’t be afraid.”

Fast-forward to the weekend before 9-11.

I felt very strange. I had a dream that four of my family members were killed in a car crash and it was very disturbing.

I was so disturbed by it that I shared the dream with my Sister-in-Christ, Linda Clark. We’ll revisit our conversation later.

At the time of 9-11, I’d been working at the Port Authority at One World Trade Center, 63rd Floor, for several months. My co-workers were like family to me and I loved working there.

Shortly before the hijacked plane hit my building, 22 | G-Level

June 2019

I looked at the clock and said to myself, “The receptionist should be here shortly…” and “BOOM!!” there was an indescribable sound. The building swayed from side to side like a piece of paper. I had no idea what the ham-and-cheese happened but I got on my knees immediately and began to pray and worship the Lord. See, it was already in my Spirit. Earlier, I’d been listening to “I Love The Lord” by Whitney Houston and “Open Up My Heart” by Yolanda Adams.

The upcoming weekend I was scheduled to minister at a Gospel Expo in Georgia, with my then producer, Malcolm B. Smith (I never made it there for obvious reasons). My co-workers became frantic and there was a terror in their eyes I’d never seen before. Most of them worked in our building during the 1993 bombing, so they believed this was a repeat. As I was on my knees, I saw the Lord in my Spirit. He stood up from His Holy Throne of Power and Grace and said, “Is that Victoria, on her knees giving me glory in all that turmoil? Go get my baby girl!”

A man pulled me up off my knees and said, “We’ve gotta go!” The computer was on and I wondered if I should turn it off.. I don’t remember if I did. We began to calmly walk down 63 flights of stairs. As we did, the Lord blessed me with an angel. There was a Caucasian man who, about every five minutes or so, asked me and only me if I was alright. The third time he asked me, I asked him, “What is your name?” He

replied, “My name is Michael.” Now I know that was God’s way of checking on me! I told Michael he was an angel and he quickly said, “I’m no angel.” I quickly replied, “Michael, you are today.” I didn’t see him anymore after that.

When we got to the 61st floor there was a beautiful fireman standing in the doorway of the 61st floor and saying to us, “Everything’s alright. A plane hit the building.” My first thought was to God and those poor people on the plane. The fireman looked extremely angelic; there was a light in his eyes. His eyes were the most beautiful blue I’d ever seen. He had such a warm Spirit and smile as he comforted everyone and tried to keep us calm.

As we proceeded down the stairs, I didn’t believe people understood the magnitude of what had occurred and what was about to take place. I heard one lady say to someone, “Let’s hurry up outta here and go to the mall.” At that point I began to praise God through song. I began to minister to God “I Love The Lord” (the version by Whitney Houston). He planted it in my Spirit earlier that morning knowing I would need it for encouragement later. Everyone did.

At one point we were asked to calmly move aside so that injured individuals from the upper floors could get to emergency aid. There was one man in particular who looked as if someone had placed a stick of dynamite in his hand and blew off his clothes and his skin; his skin was falling off his bones. It was the kind of injury you looked at and knew would hurt terribly when the shock wore off. I began to cry and pray.

When we reached the 12th floor, there was water everywhere. Most people took their shoes off to go the rest of the way. By the time we reached the concourse, around 9:30 a.m., there was water everywhere. The scene looked like something out of the old television series, The Twilight Zone; everything 23 | G-Level

June 2019

was deserted, like a ghost town.

As I walked out of the One World Trade and I saw the devastation, my mind could not grasp what my eyes were viewing. It was like a war zone. This could not have been the same building I’d walked into perhaps two-and-a-half hours ago. In all my days I’d never seen anything like that. All I could think of was how this same building was bombed in 1993. My thoughts went to calling the temporary agency to tell them I wasn’t coming back to this building for anymore assignments. The police and firemen were telling everyone to keep moving. So many did not listen and their disobedience disheartened me. They just stood around - looking. I’ve learned that when there is trouble you just keep moving, don’t stand around looking. I just kept praying and walking, having no idea what was taking place.

In this war zone I still noticed how lovely a day it was for a September morning. It was sunny and very warm. I began to feel hungry and stopped into McDonald’s for tea and something to eat. I paid for my meal and seconds later, I knew Jesus was on His way. The restaurant began to shake and the earth rumbled beneath us. The lights went off and on. I ran out and immediately asked God, “What should I do?!”

He directed me to the Federal building further up the block and across the street. I got to the top of the stairs and He told me to wait there. Seconds later, the earth rumbled again people began running, screaming and crying. I had no clue what was happening.

No one said anything. People were just walking and looking. I looked down at all the people running and no one spoke. It was the most silent silence I’d ever heard. I stood at that spot for at least 20 minutes or so, and then asked God, “What should I do next?”

I started walking. You couldn’t do anything else but walk. As I stepped on the very last step of the staircase, my eyes came upon a pair of shoes that were sitting perfectly on the sidewalk, as if God lifted

the woman who wore them out of her shoes. They were very small, black, patent leather penny loafers and positioned so perfectly I will never forget them.

I often wonder what happened to the soul that wore them.

As I continued to walk toward midtown, I stopped at Burger King®. I just had to have a cup of tea and sit down. I was frazzled. I got the tea and began wailing and lamenting. There was a woman sitting next to me and she asked, “Were you in the building?” I began to cry and told her where I had come from. I still didn’t know that the twin towers were no longer standing.

A young man named Willie sat at a nearby table and began to share how while he was in the same building he saw a co-worker burn-up in an elevator. He was a mental mess. I did my very best to comfort him but we were both in shock. I asked the lady how I could get to Jersey City. Willie said that he lived there, too, so we began our trek home, together. I thank God for Willie. The Lord sent someone who could relate to being in that building and, of course, I shared Christ

phone call. I had to let my family know that I was all right. No one could get through for quite awhile. All the circuits were busy. Finally, I was able to reach my sister-in-love, Lisa. I called her office. She answered the phone and began crying. Jeffrey was there, too and took the phone from her. I began to share what had taken place. Lisa worked on 34th Street in Manhattan and told me to come to her job. Willie and I walked what felt like 30 miles that day. It was actually less than five. When I arrived at Lisa’s job, she and my brother were waiting for me with their arms outstretched. My brother’s eyes were red from crying and we embraced like never before. In the midst of such horror and pain, there was love. There was life. It’s a beautiful thang! Lisa called my mother and Marlin. In all my years of living I’d never heard my mother cry like that before. She told me how she told God, “Not today.

You can’t take my daughter today, Lord!” Marlin was in the background just praising God and thanking Him for delivering me into the arms of life. It was very emotional.

The Day I Lived I became alive in a whole new way.

In essence, I was born again, AGAIN! with Willie. As we walked, the streets were filled with people waiting on lines to use public phones. Because of that day alone the Lord blessed me with a cellular phone soon after the incident. These phones saved the lives of so many that day, giving people the ability to let police and firemen know where they were located.

What a blessing.

We walked for quite some time and stopped at a Radio Shack. I walked toward the back of the store and the news headline read: World Trade Center Destroyed. I began to cry again. I could not believe my eyes or my ears. Everyone was trying to reach someone. I asked the gentlemen behind the counter if I could make a 24 | G-Level

June 2019

At some point during that long walk with the Lord, in the midst of all that madness, an emotion arose in me.

A complete unexpected one – I began to cry about not being married. What the ham-and-cheese? I’d been waiting on God all these years for my Kingdom Man. Since my series of relationship mishaps, I’d been satisfied with waiting on God 99.99999½% of the time.

Why now am I crying about not having a husband? I wondered why the testosterone designated to love me was not on his knees praying for my very life.

When Lisa, Jeffrey and I (Willie contacted his family and made his way home) took the ferry to New Jersey, I looked back at New York City. I saw all the smoke and the remains of what God just spared me from. I

broke down again and cried with all my being. Lisa comforted me. As I calmed down, I looked up at her, as I sniffed and sobbed and said, “Lisa, I just want to go out on a date!” We laughed! God did answer that request and blessed me with a date. One of my broth as-in-Christ took me to a Japanese restaurant on October 8, 2001. I had never experienced hibachi cooking – where they cook the food in front of you.

I’m still waiting on my Kingdom Man. He must be something special because I’ve been waiting for a long time.

So many thoughts came to mind after my 9-11 experience. Remember those dreams I had prior to 9-11? I still don’t know if this event was the manifestation of my first dream but the reality of the incident, to me, was a spiritual war that broke out in the natural realm. Ephesians 6:12 says, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” As for the dream I had the night before 9-11, Linda and I talked about it when I got home from the incident. She believed my dream was a premonition of the four planes that were involved in the attacks of that day. I do believe the Lord sends warnings. That’s why it’s so important to stay connected to Him. He’ll tell us what we need to know – if we listen for Him. I also thought about that angelic fireman and Michael. When I found out the buildings were no longer standing I was hopeful they made it out safely. And remember the song that encouraged my heart in the stairwell, “I Love The Lord”? I was blessed to meet the writer of that song, the legendary Richard Smallwood, just 18 months after 9-11. God is so awesome!

After the Lord delivered me from the hands of death on that fateful day, the core of my life was completely changed. My thought process, relationship with Jesus and my relationships with others have completely changed. I was just one of the many people on the 25 | G-Level

June 2019

63rd floor of the North Tower whose life will never be the same. What was so different about me? Well, I realized that one of the lives lost on 9-11 could have certainly been mine, but why was I spared? What purpose still remained in me? My assignment could have very well been on a higher floor. What was left undone in me? Ah, I found the key words through this experience purpose and destiny! Now I’m seeking God for my “Stone Cold Purpose”. I told Him I wanted to die empty; I didn’t want any stone (gift) left unturned in me. What the enemy intended for my physical destruction, God used to kick down the doors of my destiny that I might bear fruit for the Kingdom of God. I truly comprehend this truth for my life. God revealed to me that the “doors of my destiny” He was kicking down for me were not “opportunities”. God used this experience to tear down the walls of “wrong thought processes” about who He really is - not only to me but to others.

The Day I Lived I became alive in a whole new way. In essence, I was born again, AGAIN!

The Difference between Fashion and Style written by Aditya Tripathi

Fashion is temporary and it fades with time and season. Style has a permanent nature or it reflects one’s taste and personality.

Fashion means to cream something and style means to designs something which is already created.

e.g. it is impacted by political behavior, religious beliefs, culture, weather, body type, professional environment and family upbringing. Fashion can be compared with dishes that are presented in hotels

People use the word style and fashion interchangeably but that is wrong. Both the words have different meanings. Fashion is a popular style in clothing, footwear, makeup. It is the new collection created by designers. What you see in a magazine and on fashion runway that is fashion. A fashionable person wears the latest fashion.

Whereas style is timeless. It changes when a person changes his own style or want to redefine style.

Whether you like fashionable items or stylish clothes you can get them stitched by booking tailor service at home.

Here is a quote to understand the difference between fashion and style “Style is very personal. It has nothing to do with fashion. Fashion is over quickly. The style is forever.”

Fashion is an art which is quite difficult to keep pace with as trends change with every season. Our style is influenced my many long lasting factors .for 26 | G-Level

June 2019

and restaurant. In hotel, even a simple dish is present with lots of creativity, innovation, and expertise just like models that walk the runway wearing big brand designer’s clothes. Women everyday wear a replica

of those dresses and still look fashionable but not as the model on the runway. It is unique to them and it is special.

Fashion Is Related To External: Fashion is about what is prevailing out in the fashion industry. What are people wearing most of the time to what you are wearing? For example, the off shoulder was in fashion last year and if you followed that trend you wore something fashionable but if you were not

“Style is very personal. It has nothing to do with fashion.

Fashion is over quickly. The style is forever.” wearing off shoulders and stuck to your basic white tee then that’s your style.

Style Is Related To Internal The style is about what you wear. What you like to wear or what kind of clothes make you feel good.

When you follow your style you don’t care about what is prevailing in the fashion industry or what people are wearing this season. You wear clothes which help you

27 | G-Level

June 2019

reflect your personal style.

Fashion Is Distracting and Style Is Connecting Fashion can distract our attention from ourselves and style helps in bringing attention to ourselves. For example, fashion changes with every season and year, so if we focus on fashion we will be wearing what everybody will be wearing without giving a second thought about what suits our taste and body. But if we focus on the style we will be wearing things which suits are mood and personality, we will wear clothes which will help to showcase our personality.

How Can We Relate Style And Trend?

Style and fashion should never be confused. You can look both stylish and fashionable at the same time.

Also, there is no compulsion to follow fashion. You can look great without the following fashion. To look great you just need to stick to basic eternal clothing pieces.

Like the basic tee, blue denim, But if you like following trends don’t follow them blindly, add a flavor or your own twist to prevailing trends and you are good to go.

When you follow a trend blindly it ends up making you look crappy. Therefore first learn how to look stylish and then follow trends.

A quote be Mary Ellen “I think it’s all about truly, truly knowing yourself, loving yourself, loving yourself not just modifying, covering flaws etc – but loving yourself exactly the way you are right now – and dressing to honor that.“

Tarry Until God Comes written by Rhonda Jones The other day I was having a conversation with a friend regarding the lack of spirituality in the church.

I was telling my friend that I had spent over 20 years being a faithful member in one church or another. I participated in many groups and committees, was on the witnessing team, participated in children’s church, and was a Sunday School and Youth Group teacher.

For years, I’d never miss a Sunday service and often attended mid-week service as well. Some churches became my family, others I made lots of friends. In my early days as a Christian I absorbed the word of God. It was the first 5 years of being a Christian that I memorized most of the scriptures I know.

Over the years, my relationship with church took on many facets. Over different periods I attended

guilt. The thought of not going to church had to mean I was backslidden and on my way to hell. But this time it was different, perhaps I was more mature. I knew my relationship with God was strong and going to Church out of habit had nothing to do with it.

Many years early I went through a period of utter despair. I had lost something very meaningful to me and it tore me right at the core of my heart. There was so much pain in my life and my routine habits of being a good Christian didn’t stop me from hurting.

I did all the things I was supposed to do, but my condition didn’t improve. This was the time in my life that I entered what I we often hear as “desert.” There I was alone and forsaken. Everything stripped away.

Everything but God, except my old ways of connecting

It encourages us to “do” for God, but not “abide” in God. It pushes us to be a busy Martha, instead of a doting Mary; which Jesus said is far better. church to growth spirituality, other times looking for a husband, still other times desiring a social life. Then there came a period that I had no desire to attend church at all. I would often find myself in the pews thinking, what in the heck am I doing here? I couldn’t wait until service was over. Church had become a ritualistic habit for me. After one disappointment over another, I decided to take a sabbatical. I had done this before, many years early but was overridden with 28 | G-Level

June 2019

with him didn’t seem to work for me anymore. This was a sign that God was requiring something deeper of me. This is when I became a seeker and at the same time I became a receiver. This is when my eyes of understanding began to open and God’s word, the scriptures, and his Voice began to animate in my life.

The old way of approaching God wasn’t good enough for me anymore. I was beginning to build

a relationship with Him. I would actually sit on my couch and talk to Him aloud. His voice became so much more clearer to me. I saw new revelations in everything, especially in the scriptures. I began to desire the deep spiritual truths of God, truths that would lead to a more joyful, fruitful, and peaceful life. I wanted to be taught by the Holy Spirit. I often meditated on the scripture that said, once the Holy Spirit comes, we wouldn’t even need a teacher, because the Holy Spirit would teach us all things. I’m living proof of this, as are many others. I began to realize the Spirit of God that lives inside all of us and is waiting for us to trust Him. Which leads me back to that question, why does the church lack spirituality? The kind of spirituality that Jesus described when he said another form of worship is coming, in which God’s worshippers will worship him in spirit and in truth, for those are the types of worshippers God desires. I believe the church lacks this type of spirituality because it puts formulas over relationship. It gives us a 10-point plan. If you do this, you will receive that. It enslaves us with rules, bylaws, and codes of conduct. It imposes the one message fits all type of instruction. It encourages us to “do” for God, but not “abide” in God. It pushes us to be a busy Martha, instead of a doting Mary; which Jesus said is far better. It often puts more importance on the words of those in authority, than on the still small voice of God speaking in our hearts. We’re not encouraged to strengthen that voice and thus it often goes unheard. To many of us know of God, but fail to truly know Him, just as Job said, I’ve heard of you, but now my eyes see you for myself. Or in the case of Moses who spent 40 days with God on Mount Sanai and the children of Israel looked at awe upon his countenance as he entered the village. We see God’s presence from afar.

But where there is a problem there is also a solution.

In the book of Acts Chapter 1 after the ascension of Jesus, the disciples were told, “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard Him speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” The scriptures go 29 | G-Level

June 2019

onto say that the men came and waited together in prayer and on that day a sound like a mighty rushing wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

In Acts 2 Chapter 17 it declares, in the last days, God says, I will pour out my spirit on all people, your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions; your old men will dream dreams. Even on your servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. I will show wonders in the heavens above and everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

What the Bible is speaking of in the preceding verses is the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. The Holy Spirit can manifest himself in the Christian in countless ways. We can speak in tongues, dream dreams, have visions, heal the sick, prophesy, cast out demons, receive wisdom and discernment, and so much more. The Holy Spirit is the power house behind God’s word.

Yet, what is key to this all is that Jesus told the disciplines to “tarry” to “wait” for this manifestation.

They didn’t have to strive for it. They didn’t have to look for it. They didn’t even have to pray for it. They were just instructed to wait for it; to wait on God. Isaiah 43: 31 declares those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. Why? Because when we are filled with God’s spirit we are endowed with His power, his wisdom, and his strength. And all we need to do to receive it, is desire it and wait, waiting, linger, and abide with God. Rhonda Jones is the creator of over 25 Christian meditation and affirmation Cds and the author of the Christian makeover program, Help Me God Change My Life and A Date with God. Learn more at http://www.thechristianmeditator.com and http://www.holyandhealthyliving.com. Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS.

“Your Voice Is Necessary” written by Dr. Cheryl Hill Did you know that the last statistics I read stated that 47% of the people in the workforce are unhappy with their jobs? There may be several reasons why that may be but I want us to take a look at where we as Christians in the marketplace should be.

We have a VOICE and we should have the resources to provide a higher quality of life for many. Please DO NOT join the others in thanking GOD IT’S FRIDAY but begin to thank God He can use you “right where you are”.

Because we have been given “gifts” from the Holy Spirit we should be a voice no matter where we are and no matter what position we are in. Wisdom will overshadow the unwise any day. I am not saying that

Today PLEASE re-evaluate your thoughts of your position in the marketplace..someone is waiting for your voice of wisdom and your lifestyle of integrity. What will YOUR VOICE speak to? Why are you where you are? For some of you “if” you complete your assignment where you are God will make room for you somewhere else. You cannot be promoted until you outgrow your present assignment.

we are people of arrogance and pride but I am saying if we seek God we have an “unfair advantage” apart from those who are not in the Kingdom of God. We have the ability to provide wisdom on how to increase the moral of employees. We have wisdom to introduce systemic ways to increase production. We have wisdom and insight to implement programs that will be effective for at-risk children. We have a voice and that is WHY God has us in the marketplace.

We are not in the marketplace to join others to say “thank God it’s Friday” but to thank God for a source of income and a way to glorify Him through our lifestyle. We have the ability to begin businesses that will change the spiritual and economic flow of a society.

30 | G-Level

June 2019

P.S. I have made up my mind to be surrounded by those that are wise and to learn from them. I am not saying that I will not be surrounded by others BUT those that lend their time to me, I will appreciate and honor their time and wisdom. Time is very short, even if God gives us 50-60 more years to live.

My goal is not retirement but fulfillment of destiny.

Dr. Cheryl Hill is The President, of I.D.E.A.S and former President of Integrity International Consulting. Dr. Hill has worked in government for over 15 years working from working with grassroots leaders to working with White House Staff. She is an international Special Advisor/ marketplace leader.

The 7 Spheres of Influence written by Meghan Bryan Many years ago an “awakening” came to the Church about the need for the Church to be influential in all areas of our society. There are 7 spheres or seven arenas of any society that influences a family and a country as a whole.

When you look at each area of influence you will note that without one of these areas a society will be weakened. We will look at these areas to assist the Church in understanding the need to have Christian representation in all areas.

• Business - this area of influence is key to a society’s economic strength. The economic strength is important because it also reflects the livelihood of its citizens. Small businesses are key and vital because small businesses address a plethora of needs from food, transportation, clothing etc. The Business sphere of influence deals with the poverty, health and everyday life of people. Christian business leaders are crucial. These leaders go beyond the economic importance and assist communities as led by God. • Education - a good education is key to sustained success. Good schools lead to good citizens and a safer community. Education deals with the mind of all people. Educators are needed, especially Christians who can discern history, the Word of God and the destiny of others.

• Faith - at the core of everyone is their belief.

What you believe is what you receive. God has a divine plan that ALL shall hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Faith deals with the heart of all people. If we do not preach the gospel in practical and spiritual ways we do not give the opportunity for others to know God as many of us do. Faith leaders and marketplace leaders are needed.

31 | G-Level

June 2019

• Arts & Entertainment - movies, plays, television etc., all of these areas deal with the “ear and eye gates”. What we take in, is what we become.

This area of influence is very important. We have certain guilds, policies and organizations which oversee the extent in which the arts and entertainment operate. As Christians, if we are not in the policy making position we get what we get and fight against the Devil after the fact of the implementation of policies. Christian actors and actresses are needed not only for the position of acting in quality films or television programs but for interacting with the crew administering a practical and spiritual lifestyle.

• Media - this is another area that addresses our eye and ear gates. What we take in is very important. A true Christian in media can serve on many levels which can bring light to important lifestyle trends, family impact, societal norms and so much more. A Christian in media is very important.

• Government - this area addresses many areas of our lifestyle. It addresses our laws, how we live, what we eat, how we work and much more. If we do not have Christian representation in the government, we should not complain about the results.

• Family - the family is the nucleus to any society.

When we disengage the family and do not focus on the need to pay attention to the father, mother and the children as a family, we do injustice to the unity of this nucleus.

Wisdom Key: do not leave your place in the marketplace if you sense a “call” upon your life. “You Are Valuable Right Where You Are”. God will clearly let you know when to move IF you are to move from your current assignment. You are needed.

‘I Want to Glorify God’: Actor’s Powerful Act Before Taking Roles written by Billy Hallowell

A

ctor T.C. Stallings refuses to compromise his faith and values, turning to God as he continues to navigate his successful career in Hollywood. Stallings, a former professional football player, never planned to enter the entertainment industry, but an unexpected experience inside a movie theater a decade ago left him with an undying passion for storytelling.

The actor, who has starred in movies like “War Room,” “God’s Compass,” and “Courageous,” played professional football for six years and had aspirations of joining the NFL when he went to the theater one day back in 2008 to see “Fireproof” — and life was never the same again.

The movie deeply spoke to Stallings’ heart and left him and others in the theater in tears.

“I remember that night … just to see everybody’s reaction when it was over, including myself,

32 | G-Level

June 2019

crying in terms [of] thinking, ‘He could be a better husband, a better dad, a better everything,’ Stallings told PureFlix.com’s “Pure Talk.” “And then my heart started thumping to act.”

The actor found himself praying to God and asking whether his sudden passion for acting was coming from Him. When Stallings realized that the Lord had placed it upon his heart, he continued praying and asking for guidance.

Within a year, he landed a role in “Courageous.”

Stallings’ career really heated up, though, when he starred in “War Room” — a 2015 feature film about marriage that shocked Hollywood when it became the most popular movie in America.

“The quick, easy answer: it was just God shifting my passions,” he said of his sudden foray out of football and into Hollywood. “My goal coming out of high school was to play pro football”

Today, though, Stallings continues his acting career, and is very intentional about the roles he accepts — and rejects.

“I want to use all my gifts and talents to glorify God,” he said, noting that he asks God about each and every project. “When someone approaches me with a project … I give it to the Lord.”

Stallings continued, “If I ever took a role where it makes it difficult for me to tell people about Jesus then it’s for sure a ‘no’ for me.”

He also encouraged others to seek God’s plan for their lives.

“If God calls you to do something, you do it,” Stallings said.

You can watch Stallings in “God’s Compass” and “Fireproof,” along with thousands of other faith and family friendly TV shows and movies online.

Prayer Brings Answers Daniel prayed and God heard him the first day ...don’t give up

Pray the Word Only . . .

33 | G-Level

June 2019

Christian Movies

34 | G-Level

June 2019

8 Effective Tips to Become Excellent in the Marketplace written by Melinda Jones

As Christians in the marketplace we are to be the model of excellence. Our standards, reactions and wisdom could change the destiny of those around us. Here are 8 tips to develop a standard of excellence.

6. Bring Added Value - you should always be productive and bring added value to the table of planning, your environment and for various polices. Christians should be the lead in innovative and creative changes.

1. Develop Your Character - you should aspire to become a person who is ethically and morally sound.

7. Dress for Your Authority - Your dress is like your armor. It will protect you if dress properly for your environment.

2. Be Consistent - consistency in every area makes a great example of excellence. Consistency in being timely, thorough, thoughtful, having foresight/insight and wisdom.

3. Use Discernment - using the gift of the Spirit to discern right and wrong things.

4. Do It Right the First Time - doing a project, contract, or assignment right the first time requires research, protocols, understanding and proper execution. It will save money, time and resources when done right the first time.

5. Invest in Knowledge - the marketplace trends, missions and people change constantly. To know the times and seasons requires constant knowledge of what is important to your business, government or community.

35 | G-Level

June 2019

8. Serve - assisting others keeps you humble, informed and grateful. Your attitude truly will determine your altitude or promotion.

Copyright Š2014 Melinda Jones All rights reserved

G Level

Impact Awards 2019

You are cordially invited to attend the

G Level Impact awards 2019

“Honoring Christian Marketplace Leaders of Impact” The awards will be held as follows: Date: October 12, 2019 Time: 3 PM - 5 PM Venue: Long Bay Resort Ballroom 7200 North Ocean Blvd Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 Emcees: Mr. Lawrence Schaefer and Ms. Becky DeWitt Presenters: Ms. Princess Ethan and Mr. Timothy McCray Sr. Awards Overview: Mrs. Eddrena Hood-Davis G-Level Impact Award Recipients Arts & Entertainment/Media • Jubilee Mosley (Minister/Artist/Music) • Mr. Dozie David (Movie Director/Pastor/Entertainment Lawyer) • Apostle Victoria Lockhart (Apostle/Artist-Music) • Mr. Shaquel Davis (Film Industry/Art Production) • Ms. Becky DeWitt (Faith Leader/Author) Education • Mr. Michael Muempfer & Mrs. Ericka Muempfer (Behavior Specialist/Research/Adjunct Professor) • Mrs. Lavonya Jones (Program Manager) Family • Mr. Brad Queener (Development Group/Housing Initiatives) • Mr. Emmanuel Gladden (Evangelist/Community Outreach) Faith Leader • Ms. Cindy Sauvain (International Prophetic Voice) • Apostle Terry Dowe (Apostle & Community Outreach Leader) • Mrs. Malinda Bell (Apostle & Leadership Development Tactician) Government • Mrs. Cathay Wagantall (Parliamentarian) • Chief Mrs. Shimite Bello (Executive Secretary, DEMSMA & Chief) Business • Mr. David Douglass (Philanthropist) • Mrs. Brandice Bradley & Mr. Eugene Ringgold (Real Estate& Development Group)

36 | G-Level

June 2019

*Special Mention: Mrs. Danielle Branchel, Ms. Melinda Grayson and Ms. Ginger Burggren (Entrepreneurs)

Agriculture “ T he N e w O il ”

by Lawrence Schaefer

A

s Christians, we are to “thrive or be dominant” in all areas of our lives. We are unbalanced when we focus only on attending the House of God. We have been given all things pertaining to life and godliness. We have the mind of Christ. We really are not missing anything.

As a part of our inheritance we are to prosper. Today, I would like us to look at expanding how we look at “investing”. Investing is not only with gold and silver or stocks and bonds. One of the greatest investments

their “new oil”. Whereas, oil was their economic producer, a shift has taken place where oil is no longer the top economic producer but agriculture (agribusiness) is the top priority.

Studies show that the world consumes, on average, 2,600 bushels of grain crop per second. That’s almost twice what we ate back in 1974. And that amount could easily double to 5,200 bushels per second over the next 20 years. The amount of pressure on the global food supply network has been great.

Bio fuels are very important. Bio fuels are plant based solutions to energy used as replacements for transportation fuels such as petroleum, diesel and jet fuel.

that we as Christians are missing out on is the INVESTMENT IN AGRICULTURE. Many of us have never understood its great value to our society and its economic value. Whether in the United States or internationally we have begun to see a shift of focus from oil to agriculture for many reasons.

This shift is called “divesting”.

Especially during financial crisis there is no better asset to own than farmland or investing in agriculture stocks.

Soon, quality soil will become a scarce commodity.

Coming from a farming background I always understood that agriculture investments are as good as what some call “green gold”, a great commodity.

In several African countries, agriculture has become 37 | G-Level

June 2019

Can you SEE the importance of agriculture? The next generation of bio fuel is 1) Algae 2) Jatropha seeds 3) Carrizo Cane 4) Swith grass and 5) Hemp.

Agriculture is one of the world’s most important industries. It provides us with all our food. It also supplies materials for two other basic needs, clothing and shelter. In addition, agriculture provides materials used in making many industrial products such as paints and medicines. About half the world’s workers are employed in agriculture -far more than in any other industry. Agriculture is one of the world’s oldest industries.

Resources & Tips for Building Your Platform It doesn’t matter what your business is or what industry you’re in, these tools are absolutely imperative to your success in building a global platform. You can build a global platform from your home. You can be connected with people all over the world, just with your computer and an internet connection. These tools can be automated and scheduled out in bulk.

Here are some best practices for using tools to build your online platform.

• Share valuable content. Share content that your target market would be interested in, even if it is not your own content. Be discerning on what you provide for free and what you charge for.

• Separate your Facebook business page from your personal Facebook page.

• Post on social media three times per day, in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Share your most important content between the hours of 2pm – 6pm. It takes 7 times for a person to be exposed to your message before they consider buying.

• You can have an audio, video, or written blog. Blog twice per week on Monday and Thursday.

• Send your newsletter preferably once 38 | G-Level

June 2019

per week and share different content from what you share on your blog.

• Go to where your target customers are and provide value information to them by sharing your expertise: other blogs, forums, Facebook and LinkedIn groups, etc.

Newsletter Mail Chimp http://mailchimp.com/ A Weber http://www.aweber.com/ Constant Contact: http://www.constantcontact.com Blogging WordPress.com https://wordpress.com/ WordPress.org https://wordpress.org/ Radio Blog Talk Radio http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ I Tunes http://btr-tips/itunes-radio-show/ Magazine Issuu.com http://issuu.com/ Joomag.com http://www.joomag.com/ Paper.li http://paper.li/ Learn Best Practices from the Following These Experts Tamyka Washington: http://tamykawashington.com/ • Blogging and social media expert for women entrepreneurs.

• Offers free resources on starting a

business with blogging.

• Low cost resources to help you launch a successful business and online platform.

Michael Hyatt: http://michaelhyatt.com/ • Former CEO of Thomas Nelson Publishing.

• Offers many articles and podcasts on his blog to help you increase exposure for your platform.

• Provides Wordpress and social media best practices.

• Has a book called Platform to help you learn everything you need to know to build an online platform.

Sandi Krakowski: http://arealchange.com/ • Multi-million dollar online business and 100,000+ followers on social media.

• Wordpress and Facebook expert.

• Offers free blogging course, Free E-Book, and over 60+ videos to help you be successful building your online business.

Linda Hollander: http://www.wealthybaglady.com/ • Corporate Sponsorship expert.

• Learn how to get other businesses to fund your business and events.

MicroMentor.org: Get a free business mentor to help with any aspect of your business.

Free Online Business Resource Centers Instead of paying for expensive technology and equipment, you can use free and low-cost online tools to run your business and automate it to make money for you while you sleep. It is also cheaper now to hire contractors to help you with your business. Whether you need help with logo design, website development, or technical support, it is much cheaper now to obtain those services. We hope that this information will provide the education and connection that you 39 | G-Level

June 2019

• StartUp Nation • Small Business Administration • BizLaunch • WPMU Dev: For all things Wordpress • TED Talks • Small Business Administration Learning Center • Score Templates Free Lance and Contracting Work Work From Home Books by Connie Brentford • Make Money Online: 97 Real Companies That Pay You To Work In Your Pajamas (purchase on Amazon) • Make Money Online Vol. 2: 67 More Real Companies That Pay You To Work in Your Pajamas (Purchase on Amazon) • Gig Salad http://www.gigsalad.com • E-Lance http://elance.com/ • Fiverr http://fiverr.com Free Web Conferencing Tools • Free Conference Call • Free Conferencing • Anymeeting • Twitter Chats • Hootsuite • Skype • Audacity There are many ways now to access extra money for your business without a bank and without high interest rates. You can now fund your business with grants, crowd funding, business credit and peer-topeer lending.

Grants and crowd funding offer money you can raise for your business that you don’t have to pay back or give up a percentage of ownership in your business.

Even some of your banks, such as Chase, offer grant programs for businesses. Business credit and peer-topeer lending is money that you do have to pay back but usually at a rate lower than what banks offer.

Good Reads Marketplace Leaders Dr. Cheryl A. Hill

Re Think Dr. Cheryl A. Hill

Gift & Ministries of the Holy Spirit Lester Sumrall 40 | G-Level

June 2019

Good to Great Jim Collins

Hold on to Your Dream Caretha Crawford

Contempt Becky Dewitt

Marketplace Christianity Robert Fraser

The 9 to 5 Window Os Hillman

The Day I Lived Victoria Lockhart

God’s Generals Roberts Liardon