Grace&Glory 1
scripture scripture
My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love doesn’t know the first thing about God, because God is love – so you can’t know him if you don’t love. This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about – not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they’ve done to our relationship with God. 11-12 My dear, dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us – perfect love! 13-16 This is how we know we’re living steadily and deeply in him, and he in us: He’s given us life from his life, from his very own Spirit. Also, we’ve seen for ourselves and continue to state openly that the Father sent his Son as Savior of the world. Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we’ve embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God. 7-10
TO LOVE, TO BE LOVED
God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day – our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life – fear of death, fear of judgment – is one not yet fully formed in love. 19 We, though, are going to love – love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first. 20-21 If anyone boasts, “I love God,” and goes right on hating his brother or sister, thinking nothing of it, he is a liar. If he won’t love the person he can see, how can he love the God he can’t see? The command we have from Christ is blunt: Loving God includes loving people. You’ve got to love both. 17-18
2 February 2024 2024 2 February
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Grace&Glory 3
February 2024
™
on the cover: Pastor Ke’Andre R. Lucas M.I.T. Mikaela Nash Ke’Andre R. Lucas Keandrelucas_
Cover Story Pgs 8-15 February is for LOVE. This month we are focusing on waiting for love and marriage.
We talk exclusively with Pastor Ke’Andre R. Lucas and his Fiancé M.I.T. Mikaela Nash about their love journey. They both answer some poignant questions about dating, expectations for a mate, deal breakers, and waiting on God to fulfill their desire for love.
Healthy Soul 22 MONTHLY MANNA Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon
Brandie Manigault
A Loving Home!
Daily Devotions
28 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Pastor Rhoda Turner
He Will Fight For You 4
26 NEW DAY FRESH START
February 2024
36 HEAVEN’S BREAD
38 FROM THE PULPIT
Pastor Patricia Saulsbury
Minister Erica Lee
It is What It Is
The Tear Collector
Healthy Mind 18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Lifestyle & Entertainment 30 MONEY MINDSET TIPS Siobahn Saulsbury
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Financial Guidance
Let It Go
Healthy Life
32 GOSPEL INDUSTRY & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Ericka J.
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2
34 HEALTH MATTERS
Contributors............................................ 6
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Woman’s Heart Month
Call Tyson Lesesne
Realtor The Vurganov Group
From the Editor....................................... 7
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Contributors For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11 PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Brandie Manigault Dr. Denyce Daniels Rhoda Turner Siobahn Saulsbury Ericka J. COVER PHOTO CREDIT Jazzy Studios GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. For advertising and more information contact
410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Follow us on: Grace & Glory Magazine
DR. CARLA DEBNAM Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5. BRANDIE MANIGAULT Brandie Manigault is the Co-founder of Healing Voice Ministries, Co-pastor of Ecos Church, and the author of New Day Fresh Start. Of all of the titles she has and hats she wears; her favorite is wife and mother. She is a firm believer that love wins and is passionate about the health of the soul. MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda is an Author, Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Certified Life Coach, and TV Personality. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, she received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and her M.A. in Law Degree (Mediation and Dispute Resolution) from Regent University. Min. Carenda helps individuals and professionals rise above their circumstances by detoxing emotionally. Carenda believes Emotional Management Equals Life Management. Her new book, 12 Rounds...How to Detox Emotionally and Win, is scheduled to launch 2024. DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University. PASTOR RHODA TURNER Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ. ERICKA J. Ericka J. is a Baltimore Native Radio and TV Personality Media Mogul. Ericka J. is a community activist who is very passionate about carrying on the legacy of her mother the late Rev. Sandi Johnson. Ericka J. is also a sought-after hair stylist and fashion icon.
@gracenglorymag GraceandGlorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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Siobahn Saulsbury Siobahn Saulsbury is a financial ally. She inspires believers to transform their financial legacy for the benefit of future generations. She teaches on God's guidelines to financial success and health in a relatable and tangible way. Her signature phrase is "Make Good Choices"!
from the editor
His Love God loves each of us as if there were only one of us. ~ Augustine
February is Love month. Many of us will celebrate Valentine’s Day this month with a special someone; and many of us will not be celebrating with a special someone. Many of us will go out of our way to show that certain someone our undying devotion with acts and expressions of love and affection. But there will also be those who will feel left out of this celebration of love; feeling unloved and sad because of the lack of [what they think is] the ultimate love experience. While it is nice to celebrate those who have a special place in our hearts on Valentine’s Day, it does not mean that if you do not receive some expression of love on that day that you are not loved. If there is any doubt in your mind that you are loved this Valentine’s Day, let me help you out. There is someone who loves you unconditionally. This someone loves you no matter what you look like, where you come from, what your profession is or how educated you may be. There is someone who loves you that looks beyond your faults, your shortcomings or when you miss the mark. And guess what, you do not have to do anything for this love. You cannot buy it and you cannot earn it. It is a love that is there to accept and embrace . . . a love beyond measure. Do you have any idea how much God loves you? I mean do you really know the scope and depth of the love of God? Romans 8:38-39 tells us that there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God. Isn’t that
kind of love incredible? It is hard to comprehend a love like that. Generally speaking, we have experienced love in many different forms. We have experienced the love of our parents and our siblings. We have experienced the love of a significant other, our spouses and the love of our children. We have even experienced the love of friends, colleagues, neighbors, and church members, but there is nothing that can compare to the love that God has for us. We should not depend on or wait for another person to make us feel loved, wanted, or appreciated. We should not depend on another person to validate us or make us feel whole or complete. There is only one who can do all those things and that is God, the lover of our souls. Instead of wondering who loves you or if anyone will ever love you, there is only one promise of love that you can stand on and that is the love of God. God promises to love us always and forever. I have put together a little ‘love’ list as a reminder of how great God’s love is for us. Give thanks to the God of heaven, for His steadfast love endures forever. (Psalm136:26) But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. (Psalm 86:15) So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. (1 John 4:16)
e i k c a J
EPPS
We love Him because He first loved us. (1 John 4:19) I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me. (Proverbs 8:17) Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. (John 15:9) This month celebrate LOVE and choose to embrace it with joy and happiness, as a reminder of how much God loves you. “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) Happy LOVE Month! Grace&Glory 7
Lucas
Pastor Ke'Andre R. 8
February 2024
Q&A Interview- Pastor Ke’Andre R. Lucas G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre Lucas, welcome back to Grace & Glory! It’s been a while; I understand you are now the Pastor and founder of your own ministry and I hear you are engaged to be married! Congratulations! Pastor Ke’Andre: Blessings to you! First, I would like to say thank you again for the opportunity to share my heart and story with my Grace and Glory Family. Yes, since our last interview God has done some awesome and miraculous things and I’m more than elated to share my story. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, this month we are focusing on waiting for love and marriage. Let’s talk about your journey to love and marriage. Has it always been a desire for you to get married? Pastor Ke’Andre: My journey to love and marriage has been one of great memories, lessons, and faith. Thinking about this question alone brings to my remembrance the times that I’ve taught and preached the word of God at many singles’ conferences and every year as the encourager I showed up single. It has always been my desire to be married, and without a doubt I knew and believed in my heart that that day would come. I had my wedding song picked out when I was 16 years of age, wedding colors, etc. I was preparing and planning ahead of time with no date/partner in sight. There were indeed moments when I asked, “God what’s taking so long?” But I knew for sure without a doubt that God was going to reward me with a wife based upon my faithfulness to His work. I’ve kept the scripture Psalms 84:11 in mind which states: “The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.” G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, do you believe people today still want to get married; statistically the percentage of marriages is lower than it’s ever been, particularly for Black Americans. Pastor Ke’Andre: This is a great question! However, yes, I believe that the percentage of Black Americans has decreased when it relates to the percentage of marriages. I’m sure that there are many reasons why many would
deny marriage, but what I’ve discovered throughout my journey is that the standard for marriage has been dropped due to many reasons. After counseling many, the statistics reveal that many refuse marriage due to the observation of false examples, and not a pure image of what this sacred covenant should look like. Marriage is a God thing! Marriage is work, a sacred union that should be honored unto God. Another great reason why I’ve discovered that the desire for marriages has decreased is because there isn’t much to look forward to. Let me expound a little more. We're living in a time and era where everything that’s sacred or designed specifically for marriage can be done without the commitment of marriage. In the words of Steve Harvey, “Let a man see what he can get but, make him imagine what he can have." G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, what are your thoughts on why dating and finding your “soul mate” is much more difficult in today’s society? Pastor Ke’Andre: I must say these are very great questions! I feel that dating and finding your soul mate has become more difficult for many reasons. The first reason I would say is Compatibility. Many times, dating does not work when the two people aren’t compatible in any ways, which makes it hard to fulfill. The second reason I would say dating is more difficult is because of high expectations. In some cases, dating is harder because many expect others to be what they haven’t yet accomplished themselves. The third reason I would say that dating and finding a soul mate is more difficult in today’s time is because many haven’t taken time to be healed from past trauma; not being properly healed from past trauma will eventually cause the new date to pay for the damage that the past has caused. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, how does God fit into the equation of dating? How active should someone be in the process of finding a spouse — or should they leave it all up to God? Continued on page 10 Grace&Glory 9
Q&A Continued from page 9
Pastor Ke’Andre: As a believer of Christ, I would say that dating can be done without God, but it’s much better with God. When it comes to dating and finding your spouse, I believe that God works with us and assists us. Finding a spouse should not be left all up to God, but it should be looked at as a partnership with God. Choosing a spouse is not God’s decision alone but ultimately ours, however God will give us the wisdom and insight on making the best decision for our life. Being led by God in all things is the ultimate goal. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, were there any special qualities you were looking for while dating? Were there any things that were deal breakers for you? Pastor Ke’Andre: I come from a warm, welcoming, and loving family, so I would say yes, there are special qualities that I looked for while dating. I believe the dating qualities in every relationship whether it be dating, marriage, or just friends should resemble the characteristics of the Fruits of Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 which are Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness, & SelfControl. This is a great guideline that goes along with respect and ambition and love for oneself. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, how did you and your fiancé meet? What attracted you and what stood out in your fiancé? How would you describe her in three words? Pastor Ke’Andre: My Fiancé and myself have known each other for many years. We met in our home church (Victory Ministries of Christ). For many years she was
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serving in her ministry while I was serving in mine, she never thought about me, nor did I think about her in a dating manner. However, we were natural best friends. I would share everything with her, from ministry experiences all the way to dating other women; our friendship was just that a friendship. As a Pastor it is difficult to date, and that is because you never know a person’s intentions or agenda. However, in my case she was already in my circle, knew everything about me, loved me and became my safe place unexpectedly. What attracted me and stood out to me the most was how she carried herself in such a reserved way, it was not normal it was a sign of a woman of virtue. A woman like her would be hard to limit to three words but if I had to narrow down and choose three, I would say: Amazing, Loving and FINE! G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, when was the moment you realized you had found your mate? Did you have any doubts or fears about getting married and making that commitment? Pastor Ke’Andre: While newly dating, the question “Is she my wife?”, passed through my mind several times and each time I ignored the thought because I was unsure and afraid of making the wrong decision. Many friends and family would come to me and say, “Ke’Andre, that’s your wife”, and I never denied it, however I just wasn’t sure about it. I’ve never shared with her until now that I took one whole year to fast and pray every day asking God, “Is she my wife?” And every time I planned out my future, she was always a part of my plans. I went through a rough season in my
Q&A life where I was lost, depressed, unsure of God’s word and more. And each day she would pray, prophesy, and speak life into me until I recovered. I immediately knew at that moment that she was my wife because not only did she speak life and correct me in the natural, but she also knew how to cover me in the spirit. She made it clear that she was more concerned about me than she was my assignment. As a pastor that is major, and from that day forward I’ve called her my safe place, a gift from God. Yes, I’ve had doubts and fears even to the day of engagement, but I rather be afraid with her by my side than afraid without her. After I completed that year of prayer concerning her and God spoke, I moved with full confidence because I knew for sure that God was backing me and that He confirmed who she was to me. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, what do you believe makes a marriage successful? Do you think marriages today are different from marriages in the past? Pastor Ke’Andre: I would say they’re many keys to marriage, however I would say the biggest keys are Love, Sacrifice, God, and Commitment. Yes, I believe that marriages today are different from marriages in the past. When storms happen in relationships: marriages from the past looked for reasons to stay together vs marriages today look for reasons to be apart. I believe in the past many took their vowels and commitment more seriously. The time and era that we live in today provides so many exits, and options to not work through situations and commitments. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, are there any married couples you look up to and admire? Why do they stand out? Pastor Ke’Andre: I believe to be successful in any area you must have
a model or example. If I had to pick a married couple to admire it would be my grandparents. Their marriage stands out to me for many reasons, but the number one reason is how they love and treat each other. I’ve seen many couples smile in public while hating each other in private, but I’ve watched and observed how they allowed God to lead and guide them through obstacles while loving each other and staying connected. I’ve had many marriage and relationship talks with them asking questions to find out what are their secrets to staying married so long and I’ve discovered that one of the greatest keys was Love. G&G: Pastor Ke’Andre, lastly what would you say to that person who has given up hope on ever finding love? How does someone be “content” in their singleness when they are heartbroken? Does being content mean relinquishing the desire to marry and believing God for a mate? Pastor Ke’Andre: I would say to that person it’s time to BELIEVE AGAIN! I know that life makes you feel that God has forgotten about you and that He’s overlooked you but stay encouraged knowing that God has something special in store for you. I’m a living witness that God will come through for you, if He did it for me, I know that He will do it for you. I would encourage that heart-broken person to draw near to God, find an assignment, dream, or goal and get lost in it while waiting for the manifestation of your prayers. Why give up on your desire when you’re so close to your breakthrough. I believe that 2024 is a year where God is turning the tables in our favor, things that took years are about to happen in months. Stay in the right posture believing and being content in oneself, knowing that you are enough. Grace&Glory 11
M.I.T. Mikaela
Nash
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Q&A Interview- M.I.T. Mikaela Nash G&G: This month we are focusing on waiting for love and marriage. Let’s talk about your journey to love and marriage. Has it always been a desire for you to get married? Mikaela: My journey to love and marriage has been challenging, however it also has been full of surprises. I’ve always had the desire to get married but if I’m being honest, I didn’t know if I was ever worthy of it. Throughout my journey of finding love I have experienced heartbreak like most of us women do, but I also endured the battle of low self-esteem, feeling like I wasn’t worthy to be loved. So much so that I gave up the idea of finding it, even though I wanted it so badly. It wasn’t until my fiancé came along that the idea of love and marriage became exciting for me again. G&G: Do you believe women today still want to get married; what are your thoughts on why dating and finding your “soul mate” is much more difficult in today’s society? Mikaela: I believe some women want to be married but for most women I believe the perception of marriage has been so tainted in this generation that the women today see no need or have the desire to get married. Based off of the marriages we see today, I believe it discourages women’s hope and desire to become a wife. Marriage in today’s society doesn’t hold as much weight, honor, or respect. So when it comes to dating I believe the purpose has shifted. At one point the purpose of dating was to find your soul mate and get married. Now, dating is all about what one person can do for another rather than what we can do to help each other. It’s about finding your temporary fix, stress relief, financial stability, or eye candy.
G&G: How does God fit into the equation of dating? How active should someone be in the process of finding a spouse — or should they leave it all up to God? Mikaela: God is the center of the dating equation. With God at the center no matter what may arise you can turn to him for direction and clarity on how to treat each other during the dating process. When finding a spouse, I believe one should be active in a sense that you know what qualities you want in a person, you allow yourself to be open for God to send you someone, but you shouldn’t be so in the way that you replace God. Remember God is the center! If you start to turn to man instead of God during the dating process you will see the results of it. You shouldn’t leave it all up to God because dating requires you putting in the work as well, but God should be included in the process because He knows what is best for us. He sees what we cannot. G&G: Were there any special qualities you were looking for while dating? Were there any things that were deal breakers for you? Mikaela: My main qualities that I looked for was someone that was loyal, respectful, committed, God fearing, and valued love. A deal breaker for me would be if the person didn’t believe in God, was abusive in any way, and if the person had children; only because I hadn’t had any and I wanted to share that experience with the person. G&G: Tell us about when you first met your fiancé? What attracted you and what stood out for? How would Continued on page 14 Grace&Glory 13
Q&A Continued from page 9
you describe him in three words? Mikaela: So, the funny thing is, I have known my fiancé for over 10 years. I can’t remember the details of how we met back then, but I know the place we met was at Victory Ministries of Christ. Over the years we became best friends and for a while I didn’t even view him as someone I would date. When we started to date what attracted me was how he viewed me, he saw me in a way that I didn’t even see myself. What stood out was how much of a gentleman he was, not only to me but to the women in his life. The three words I would use to describe him would be honorable, romantic, and humorous. G&G: When was the moment you realized you had found your mate? Did you have any doubts or fears about getting married and making that commitment? Mikaela: There was a time when we were still friends, a little time before we had started to date, I prayed to God asking Him if he was the one for me. Asking if He could show me a sign to give me a reason not to give up the
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idea of us getting together because by this time, I knew I liked him. To some degree I knew he liked me, but I wasn’t sure if he would ever like me as much as I liked him. So, I asked God if I should give up on the idea or give it a chance and what God revealed to me was to not doubt what I knew but to trust and have faith in the process. God was teaching me through our relationship to not doubt but to trust in Him. That is when I knew this relationship was worth fighting for. When he asked me to be his girlfriend, I knew I had found my mate because it was that day that he saw me, he saw me as treasure and what God revealed to me came to pass. I had no doubt about being married and committed to him because I knew our relationship was ordained by God. The only thing I worried about was the transition and perception others would have of me becoming a First Lady. The church can be so judgmental but now I do not worry but embrace and honor the role. G&G: What do you believe makes a marriage successful? Do you think marriages today are different than marriages in the past? Mikaela: Love, communication, grace, and sacrifice
Q&A are what makes a marriage successful to me. To be able to love each other through the ups and downs, to communicate instead of shutting each other out, to give each other grace as they continue to grow in God, and willing to sacrifice your wants for the greater good of the relationship, are key in order to have a successful marriage. Marriages are definitely different today because of the lack of love, the lack of will, and the loss of fight for the marriage. A person may find every excuse to leave rather than finding reasons to stay in the marriage. G&G: Are there any married couples you look up to and admire? Why do they stand out? Mikaela: The one married couple I look up to would be my fiancé’s grandparents. What stands out to me is their ability to disagree, talk through their differences then move on with their day. My Fiance and I laugh and admire from afar how they can fuss one minute then ask each other what they want to eat in the next like they weren’t just fussing. They don’t let a disagreement ruin their whole day, they talk through it and move through it and I want that for my marriage. G&G: How does someone be “content” in their singleness when they have been waiting and waiting? Does being content mean giving up the desire to marry and believing God for a mate? Mikaela: Content means to be in a state of peaceful happiness, to be satisfied means you don’t need anything more. You're not overjoyed, but you are not complaining either. So being content in your singleness isn’t a bad thing as long as you don’t become satisfied in it, thinking that God doesn’t have someone for you. You should be at peace with yourself before a mate comes along. You are not giving up your desire. You have to find your happiness with yourself first, so when God sends your mate, he or she only adds to it, not become the primary source. G&G: Finally, what would you say to that person who has given up hope in ever finding love? Mikaela: I would say trust God in the process. If you don’t believe you will ever find love, then you won’t. Start to open your mind to the possibility instead of being close minded to the idea of it ever happening. I’ll tell you the same thing God told me, do not doubt but trust in the process. Have faith and watch what God will do when you least expect it. Grace&Glory 15
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Grace&Glory 17
Dr. Carla DEBNAM
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
18 February 18 February2024 2024
Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
to your good health
Let It Go These past few years
Those times of trouble and
fruitful life filled with
have had an impact on
trials comes to everyone
hope, harmony, peace, and
all of us. We have faced
but it’s how we respond
potential is possible when
pain, suffering, loss, and
that determines the long-
we learn to let things go.
challenges beyond what
term impact they have on
Living life with our purpose
we have ever imagined.
our lives. Learning to let go
and potential in mind and
Whether it was choices
of the negative thoughts,
focusing on the future is
we made or the decisions
hurtful experiences and
important to living free from
of others that caused us
disappointments in life help
the chains and constraints
to have difficulties makes
us to live in joy and peace.
of the past. Freeing your
no difference. There were
This is possible when we
mind and releasing things
still things you had to face.
focus on the present and
that no longer serve you is
Thankfully we do not have
the future and not the past.
important in this season.
to face life’s challenges
Our minds are programmed
Life is too short to hold on
alone. We have friends,
with the hurts of the past so
to the hurts and shame of
family, community, and
they will come up, but we
the past. Learning to let it
church members who may
must pray and ask God to
go, helps to build space for
be our support system. Even
help us let it go. Sometimes
more love, compassion, and
if they do not come through,
we may need support from
growth. Letting go helps
you can learn to lean and
a therapist, life coach or
reduce stress, worry, and
depend on yourself and God.
support group to learn ways
fear. Letting go of what was
to cope with the hurts and
helps you reach forward to
learn to live in the present.
what’s next. Let it go and let
God will come alongside
God fill you with joy, peace,
of those who seek God’s guidance and wisdom.
The journey to a more
love, and hope. Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Grace&Glory 19
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Min. Carenda
Deonne
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February 2024
monthly manna
A Loving Home! For those of you who may not know, I am a hopeful romantic. One of my favorite movies of all time is Love Jones! What a classic. I am also a firm believer that love is a healer. I was blessed to come from a very loving home. My parents were affectionate, supportive and compassionate. No matter what the world and others were doing to discourage me, I could always find love at home! I knew I would feel better once I got home. I knew that everything would be okay, once I turned the key. What does love look like in your home? When your family comes home, and when friends come and visit, can they find peace, support, trust and affection? Or is there unforgiveness, strife, stress and turmoil? Take inventory in this season of your life. It is so imperative that your home be a place of security and safety. Many of us may not be maximizing the love within our home because we are not communicating. Show love towards your family by talking, not texting. I remember growing up we would all sit at the table together. We didn’t have to compete with our cell phones. I know you are important, but your family is more important. Love one another to set boundaries and create that family time. Another thing you can do to create a loving home environment is remember to meditate on what the bible teaches about love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 states: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not selfseeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record
of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.” We will experience disappointment in our lives but be encouraged that love never fails. Also, remember there are at least four things that love itself is committed to. It will always protect, trust, hope and persevere. These are four love principles that are sustainable for the foundation of your abode. It’s not about how big your house is. It’s not about how many rooms it has. It’s about can love be found there; can trust, protection, hope and perseverance be found there? I encourage you to fill your home with love! Maximize the greatness of love in your home like never before. I get joy when people come and visit me and they can rest comfortable! That confirms that love is a settling force of comfort, peace and tranquility. Take inventory this month and let go of anything that would cause a crack in your homes foundation. Please don’t allow the enemy to bring division, chaos, and confusion. The bigger the house does not mean the greater the love! I pray that the love within your home, big or small, remains prosperous, never lacking in its power or purpose. Live life on the promise of IMPACT! Min Carenda Deonne www.carendadeonne.com
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Brandie Manigault 26 26 February August February 2023 2024 26 2024
DAILY DEVOTIONS
New Day Fresh Start
(Excerpts from NEW DAY FRESH START- by Brandie Manigault) DAY 1
Stay in your lane. When you have been given an assignment by God you are also given authority to carry out that assignment along with the necessary instructions and tools for success. The problem comes when you look at your assignment and think of it as insignificant or even too much for you, so you assign yourself a different task. You have now switched into a lane that is not yours, and this unauthorized switch has the potential to harm you and those around you. Others cannot do their job effectively, because you are in the way, and you cannot do your job because you are not in the right place. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to fully commit to your assignment and be at peace with it. Know that you have everything you need to carry out your task, and then go for it. Matthew 3:11 “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
DAY 2
There is power in knowing the Word. It’s not all about being able to quote Scripture and verses and translating it into the Greek and Hebrew. When Jesus was being tempted by the devil He did not say, “Isaiah chapter 1 verses 1-3 says x-y-z.” He told Satan what that verse said and let the power of the Scriptures work in His situation. He knew His Word. It was inside of Him, and He understood how to apply it. It’s the same with us. When we say what the Bible says, it will work in our lives as well. The Word will turn our circumstances around. We just have to apply it. Challenge: Today be confident in your knowledge of the Scriptures. Don’t be afraid to say what the Bible says even if you can’t say where it’s found. Matthew 4:4,7, 10-11 “… But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ “Jesus said to him, “It is written again, “You shall not tempt the lord your God.’ “Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ “Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.”
DAY 3
Do you know the power of your “YES”? One “YES” in obedience to the Lord will set off a chain of events that years of labor could not produce. The possibilities and the power of your “YES” are limitless. It puts things into motion. Your act of obedience today in taking a job offer you may feel overqualified for can lead to your promotion in the company and eventually you taking over. Your yes to sow a seed into someone’s life could keep them from foreclosing on their home and ending up homeless, they remember you when they get on their feet, and leave you an inheritance later in life. There are potential outcomes to you saying “YES” to the Lord that you cannot imagine. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to set off a chain reaction for your future; tell the lord YES.
Matthew 4:18-20 “As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.”
DAY 4
Do you know that atmospheres change when you enter a room without you having to do anything or even say one word? When you go to work, school, or the grocery store, the harness that exists in those places must move when you arrive. Christ in you shines through you instantly turning dark places bright. You carry an unchallengeable light within you. You are supposed to make places better just by your presence alone. When the light of Christ shines through you it will illuminate and highlight things that have been hidden in the darkness and make vibrant colors that have been dimmed stand out even more. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to challenge the darkness. Don’t hold back. Be an example of Christ, and shine bright! Matthew 5:14-16 (MSG) “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”
DAY 5
We are called to make an impact in this world. We are not supposed to blend in and become part of the norm, but we are supposed to do and be the exact opposite; different. Our job is to be an asset in our families, at our schools, and at our jobs. These places should be bland without us around, lacking flavor and direction. It’s our job to be us so boldly that when we are not around these areas feel our absence. It’s important that we remember that we do not live these bold lives for our own benefit. The void they must feel when we are not around is the presence of God. Everything we say and everything that we do must point to Him. When they look at us they must be able to see Christ in us. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to be the difference that your job, school, or home needs. Give them Jesus with your presence. Matthew 5:13-16 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Grace&Glory 27
a woman’s perspective
He Will Fight For You finished, I expressed to her calmly why I chose to do what I had done, and I walked away. Unbeknownst to me the student that I had dismissed was listening on the other side of the door. She walked away before I could see her. She was there, however, and she walked into the principal’s office to tell her what happened. She shared the incident and how I responded to my coworker and the student was so impressed with my demeanor. That’s what she wanted to let the principal know.
Rhoda TURNER There was this lady at my place of employment. This lady would often lose her temper and lash out if she felt like she was not supported by the front office staff. One day the individual on the other end of her lashing out was me. There was a situation at work where a student was being rude and disrespectful to her. She called the front office for support with this student. I was the support that was available, and I assisted her. In her eyes she felt that I was not supporting her decision correctly. So, she lashed out at me out of frustration in front of the student. As she was lashing out, I turned away calmly and asked the student to dismiss herself from the conversation. Once she left, I faced the teacher and attentively listened to her reasoning for lashing out. Once the teacher was 28
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2 Chronicles 20:17, “You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you.” This scripture talks about God fighting your battles. I was left with a choice once my coworker confronted me. I chose to represent Him, and in my representation, it allowed others to draw to Him. Not only did the coworker lose her job, I got a raise and the younger girl had several questions to ask of me about the situation. See that student was a student that visited the principal’s office quite frequently. After that incident she had questions about her behavior and things she could do to improve her behavior. Now we’ve had those talks previously. This time she saw things happening in live action that was a great contributing factor. Jesus is willing to fight for us if we allow Him too. Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” Allow Him to fight for you. Now you can fight for yourself if you like; but when He fights for you your reward Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith is so much greater. Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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Siobhan Saulsbury 30 January February 2024 30 2024
money mindset tips
Tip 1 Whether you are a natural spender, saver, or giverthere must be balance. It's important to do all three in order to take joy in the life you have. If you find yourself spending a little too much, take time to focus on where you can save. If you haven't really been a giver, look for ways to be generous and help someone else. If you've been saving nonstop, come up with a comfortable way to spend a little on yourself. The key is balance!
Tip 2 As you're on the journey to financial freedom, are you preparing like it's going to happen? Or are you living like you'll always be in the situation you're in? A big part of being successful in anything is believing that you can be! Start preparing for the newer car by taking care of the current one. Start prepping for the bigger house by finding and budgeting for the additional furniture you'll need. Bottom line- if you believe something is going to happen, you get ready for it. Let's be prepared to hit our goals and change our financial legacy!
Tip 3 Starting now, when you list the bills that need to be paid each month or each payday- put your name on the top of the list. You're the one working for that money. You deserve to keep some of it for yourself. Don't attempt to save IF you have something left after everything else. Save first! Make it a priority. Make YOU a priority! Grace&Glory 31
. J a k c i r E 32
February 2024
News
Gospel & Entertainment Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore has made history in the NFL and let’s take it a step further, this has made BLACK HISTORY, and it is Black History Month! For the first time ever in NFL History they are the first ALL BLACK QUARTERBACK ROOM! In addition, our own HBCU Morgan State University’s Choir had the honor of performing the National Anthem at the 2024 AFC Championship Game!
Lee Michaels
Well done, Sir! Here’s to celebrating almost 50 years serving in radio broadcasting excellence. It’s celebration time for Lee Michaels who is retiring and celebrating 45 years in radio broadcasting. He has been consistent serving the radio industry and bringing home lots of awards and honors for the work he has contributed to almost a half of a century. I will never forget the year he took a stand for homelessness and locked himself in the radio station until his plea was heard all over, he went viral before going viral was a thing and that was an act that showed his heart and passion for a worthy cause and what he loves and is passionate about. So, we are coming together to honor and commemorate a man most worthy. On Sunday February 18, 2024, 6pm the musical celebration will commence at the Empowerment Temple AME Church, Baltimore MD. Artist performances by VaShawn Mitchell, Maurette Brown Clark, JJ Hairston, Jonathan Nelson, Charles Butler & Trinity, Zak Williams & 1 Akord, Ron Summers, Isaiah Thomas, Special Guest MC Eric Waddell and more Surprise guests! Freewill Offering! Vendors are welcome- email tbrown0404@yahoo.com for further vendor info and details.
Never Forget” reaching #3 on Gospel Top 40! Celebration concert on February 3, featuring the Legend himself John P Kee, as well as Lowell Pye, Wilmington Chester Mass Choir & Meta Washington. All roads lead to First Nazarene Baptist Church, 1500 S. 8th St., Camden NJ, this is going to be a great night!
Sean Tillery & Changed
New Single Alert! Sean Tillery & Changed have released a brand new hand clapping, foot stomping’ choir Bop titled “Sign Me Up” featuring the amazing vocalist Capria McClean! It’s a good one y’all go grab it you’ll wanna have your church choirs singing this one!
Sam Roberts & Levites Assembly
NEW SINGLE ALERT! HOT OFF THE PRESS! Available February 2nd! “For Your Good” featuring Sundays Best Season 5, Michael Lampkin, one of the greatest male vocalists of this time. This is a great song; grab it you’ll be glad you did! Shout Out to Baltimore’s Own Morgan Turner producing on this album! “Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com
Ricky Dillard
The Choirmaster himself has released a new choir sound in the earth with his new album “Choirmaster ll”! Ricky Dillard & New G never disappoint, and this album supports that! Go grab it, it’s available RIGHT NOW wherever you get your music! Also Congrats to Ricky for his placement on The Color Purple Soundtrack with his arrangement that opens the movie along with his cameo appearance!
Kelontae Gavin
Congrats to Kelonte Gavin on his nuptials last month, he married Nieyana “the women of his dreams”. “Our parents ROCK and it’s pretty cool to be the first kids married and have broken a generational curse already to be generational blessers, not just a blessing!” Such a beautiful couple I wish them many blessings.
Lee Michaels
Baltimore Ravens
Ricky Dillard
Kelontae Gavin
Zak Williams & 1 Akord
Zak Williams & 1 Akord
Congrats to Zak Williams & 1 Akord celebrating 20 years in Gospel Music this month in addition to their single “Jesus I’ll
Sean Tillery & Changed
Sam Roberts & Levites Assembly Grace&Glory 33
health matters
Woman's Heart Month The month of February is celebrated as Women’s Heart Month. Red Dress Sunday and Go Red activities are a part of a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease. The Go Red initiative was started in 2002 to deliver an urgent wakeup call to American women. The initiative is sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, which is a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The campaign is designed to warn women of their risk for heart disease and related disorders. Heart disease is the #1 health threat to women over 40 years old. Encouraging women to wear red on specific days in the month of February is used as a national symbol for women and heart disease awareness. Red Dress Sunday events are aimed to educate, motivate and activate women, and provide the tools needed to understand and minimize risks. Unfortunately, signs and symptoms of heart disease in women often go unnoticed or undiscovered. Women often realize they are victims of cardiovascular disorders when various disease processes are advanced. Beginning manifestations of heart disease can be overlooked. The fact is, symptoms of heart disease can be vague and can be contributed to other health problems. For women over forty, feelings of being tired, weight gain and transient shortness of breath can be attributed to lack of exercise, lack of sleep and changes in hormone levels. Cardiovascular disease is linked to hypertension, congestive heart failure, aneurysms and arteriosclerosis. These factors can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney and liver failure, diabetes, blindness, limb amputations, and death. Women, especially African-American women and women of color are largely unaware of their risk of heart disease. • Only 55 percent of women realize heart disease is the No. 1 killer for American women. • Fewer than half of American women know what a healthy blood pressure or cholesterol level is. • Your Body Mass Index (BMI) isn’t just helpful when it comes to diets or losing weight – it’s also linked to your risk of heart disease. • It’s a myth that strokes, which affect the arteries linked to the brain, only happen to older people. Strokes can happen even in infants. • Women are also more likely to suffer from a stroke, contrary to popular myths. There are several risk factors for heart disease. Some can be controlled. Other risk factors cannot be controlled. Risk factors that you cannot control are called non-modifiable risk 34
February 2024
factors. Uncontrollable risk factors cannot be changed. They may be present due to genetics or the environment. These risk factors include: • Gender (males are at greater risk) • Age (the older you get, the higher your risk) • A family history of heart disease • Being post-menopausal • Race-African-American, American-Indian heritage Modifiable risk factors require individuals to make changes in their lifestyle and habits. These changes can inhibit the development or low down the progression of heart disease. Modifiable risk factors include: • Smoking • High LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, and low HDL, or "good" cholesterol • Uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure) • Physical inactivity • Obesity • Uncontrolled diabetes • Uncontrolled stress and anger Socioeconomic status is a debatable risk factor for cardiovascular health. It can be considered a modifiable or a non-modifiable risk factor. Individuals of lower socioeconomic status are at a greater risk for heart disease for multiple and complex reasons. Poor diets and lack of access to health-related resources are considerable variables in cardiovascular health outcomes. Individuals from a higher socioeconomic background typically having greater access to a more nutritionally-balanced diet. Impoverished people often lack substantial health care benefits. What can women do to reduce their risk of heart disease? Make an effort to reduce the presence and effects of the modifiable risk factors. Target a risk factor each month and implement strategies that will improve your cardiovascular outcomes. Within a year, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Get involved Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels with the Red Dress campaign. Assistant Professor at Wear red throughout the month Coppin State University of February to raise awareness DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu of heart disease in women. healthytips025@gmail.com
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Pastor Patricia
Saulsbury
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February 2024
"It Is What It Is"
heaven's bread
Now it came about after these things that the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became sick; and his sickness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. 1 KINGS 17:17 NASB Many of us are familiar with the story of how God used a widow to provide "a" meal for Elijah and in return, God provided "countless" meals for her and her son. Well, this same widow found herself facing yet another giant, in the form of the death of her son. That was her, as we like to say, "current situation". Her reality was her son had died. That was her, "It is what it is." However, the widow woman, having experienced the power of the Almighty, All Knowing, Omnipotent God, knew that the same God who changed her reality before was well able to change it again. Just as she'd acknowledged in the first incident that she only had enough oil and flour to make one more meal, then she and her son would die, so she acknowledged the truth of her plight now, her son was dead. That widow woman could have just given in to what she saw because it was real. It wasn't a figment of her imagination. Her son was indeed dead but, instead of her accepting her reality as final with a, "It is what it is" and burying him, she called her God in to change her reality and that's exactly what He did! That boy was raised from death to life! What is the issue, plight, problem, or unfavorable circumstance you're facing today that you're trying to act like doesn't exist? Don't pretend there's nothing wrong. God can't cover what we cover up. Expose your "it" to the light of God's Word so that just like He raised that widow woman's son back to life,
He can resurrect your dead finances, relationships, churches, or whatever your "it" is. Pastor John and I have had several "its" and praise God, we're not ashamed to share our testimonies, because Rev. 12:11 tells us that we overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. One that we share often is how God brought our dead marriage back to life. As long as we were pretending that everything was alright, you know, putting on a show before others, God's hands were tied. The very minute that one of us (my husband) got real before God and asked Him to intervene, things began to change! My desire for the things of the world became less. The pleasure of sin began to dwindle. I found myself crying out to God for restoration from my backslidden life! All of this because my husband, my Boaz, my mighty man of God made the decision to acknowledge the reality of where we were and came clean before God. Then, God was free to just be God in our marriage. Here we are now, married over 39 years, enjoying doing life together and ministering to other married couples! That's God!! Today, make the decision to acknowledge the reality of your "it". God wants to change it but, He's waiting on you. Selah. Pastor Patricia Saulsbury Overcomers In Christ Elgin, SC Grace&Glory 37
Erica 38
February 2024
Lee
from the pulpit
The Tear Collector “You have taken account of my wanderings; Put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not recorded in Your book? Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call; This I know, that God is for me. In God, whose word I praise, In the Lord, whose word I praise, In God have I put my trust and confident reliance; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Psalms 56:8-11 AMP I've never been one to make New Year's Resolutions. Typically, they arise after a period of reflective distress over the previous year's shortcomings. The notion of attempting the same goals the next year only holds if you're willing to acknowledge a caring God. To achieve this, one must view their experiences through the lens of purpose. Consider what on your list of "failures" wasn't accomplished because you were on assignment for the Kingdom. Identify those who opposed you due to a lack of understanding of your mission. Reflect on how their words, actions, or silence hindered your success. This Psalm is recognized as David's "supplication for rescue and grateful trust in God." Fleeing from Saul, he feigned insanity when captured by the Philistines to avoid being perceived as a threat. David earnestly implored God to recognize his heartbreak and hope. The psalmist deliberately separated the anxiety contributing to disparity from the hope and trust he had in God. Those he had served through miracles, signs, and wonders, while on assignment from God, now sought his demise. Often, when God elevates you, those left behind may perceive your anointing as a threat. Remember, their choice not to grow is not your responsibility; however, your
role is to foster change in their disposition with humility and wisdom. Your tears matter! I encourage you to release emotional attachments to fulfill God's assignment and be open to allowing things to conclude. If you trust that God is for you, He will bring things full circle in His time. Man can do nothing against you as long as your heart resonates with His. Align your will with His purpose, and trust that He is diligent concerning you. Be honest with God in your prayers. Express your hurt, but also affirm your trust. Acknowledge your distress while believing in His care. Despite your anxiety, praise Him through His Word. Allow the Redeemer to encompass your depths and let go. I love you, but rest assured, He loves you more! Minister Erica Lee is the founder and chief servant of Erica Lee Ministries. She also serves on the leadership staff at Kingdom Harvest Worship Center in Auburn, GA. Erica is a champion of hope, freedom, and purpose, bringing strategic solutions to churches that help mature the members of the Body of Christ and transform them into disciples. ministerelee Grace&Glory 39
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