9 That is what is meant by the Scriptures which say that no mere man has ever seen, heard, or even imagined what wonderful things God has ready for those who love the Lord.
10 But we know about these things because God has sent His Spirit to tell us, and His Spirit searches out and shows us all of God’s deepest secrets.
11 No one can really know what anyone else is thinking or what he is really like except that person himself. And no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit.
12 And God has actually given us His Spirit (not the world’s spirit) to tell us about the wonderful free gifts of grace and blessing that God has given us.
13 In telling you about these gifts we have even used the very words given to us by the Holy Spirit, not words that we as men might choose. So we use the Holy Spirit’s words to explain the Holy Spirit’s facts.
14 But the man who isn’t a Christian can’t understand and can’t accept these thoughts from God, which the Holy Spirit teaches us. They sound foolish to him because only those who have the Holy Spirit within them can understand what the Holy Spirit means. Others just can’t take it in.
15 But the spiritual man has insight into everything, and that bothers and baffles the man of the world, who can’t understand him at all.
16 How could he? For certainly he has never been one to know the Lord’s thoughts, or to discuss them with Him, or to move the hands of God by prayer. But, strange as it seems, we Christians actually do have within us a portion of the very thoughts and mind of Christ.
www.zamarworshipctr.org
We are honored to welcome Pastor Faith Churn-Smith, Senior Pastor of Zamar Worship Center & Ministries, to Grace & Glory. Pastor Smith is celebrating an incredible 17 years in ministry. In our exclusive interview, Pastor Smith reflects on her 17-year ministry journey and shares her vision for a powerful new outreach initiative: a transitional housing ministry for women and children in foster care, with a special focus on supporting youth who have aged out of the foster care system.
Pastor Clarinda Burston-White In The Valley
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
Contributors
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.
Jackie Epps
EDITORIAL
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Min. Carenda Deonne
Brandie Manigault
Dr. Denyce Daniels
Rhoda Turner
Siobhan Saulsbury
Ericka J.
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Claire Lesesne
www.JandCDesigns.com
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.
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration.
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& Glory Magazine @gracenglorymag GraceandGlorymag
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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.
Siobhan Saulsbury
Siobhan 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"!
It’s Our Anniversary!
“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6
The month of September is the ninth month of the year, and it often symbolizes the end of one thing and the start of another: like the end of summer and the start of fall, and the end of summer break for students and the start of a new school year. Number nine is said to represent completion, like the fulfillment of one cycle so that you can prepare to initiate the next one. For Grace & Glory Magazine, this September symbolizes the completion of its 18th year and the start of its 19th year in publication. We are celebrating our 19th Anniversary! I am in total awe of what God has done for Grace & Glory magazine and what He will do to fulfill His purpose.
The Grace & Glory Magazine made its debut September 2006, and since then many doors have opened for the magazine consistently moving Grace & Glory Magazine to its ultimate goal, which is to be a resource and vehicle for the upward building of the Kingdom of God. We have featured many of God’s finest- pastors, ministries, entrepreneurs, authors, artists, and businesses, and we have established many valuable relationships with our faithbased community and readers. Through the years God has done, “Exceeding abundantly above all that I could ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20.
We will continue to walk through this door God opened 19 years ago. As we enter this next year, we thank and praise God for what He has already done, and we are excited for what God has in store for Grace & Glory Magazine. By no means has this been an easy journey! There have been many times I have wanted to quit and throw in the towel, and I thank God for those who pray for us to remain steadfast. There have been setbacks and stumbling blocks, but we believe when God opens a door, no man can shut it.
This month’s issue is dedicated to all the contributors that God led our way; there are many who have been with us from the start that have been so faithful pouring out into their articles what God has put into their hearts. This issue is also dedicated to our many ministry partners, supporters and advertisers, who have trusted us through the years. I would also like to thank those who work diligently to get this magazine out each month. Finally, we dedicate this issue to you, our readers and followers, who have been our faithful friends.
EPPSJackie
We have been determined to always inspire, encourage, and empower our readers with each issue. It is our prayer that through the years we have done that; and it is also our prayer that we continue to be a resource for our readers as a ministry tool for purpose. Grace & Glory Magazine will always use its platform to shine a light as long as God continues to lead and guides us forward. There is no doubt in my mind that God wants us to continue to believe, keep the faith, stay focused and let Him finish what He has started.
Peace and Blessings. . .
Churn-Smith Pastor Faith
Q&A Interview - Pastor Faith Churn-Smith Zamar Worship Center & Ministries
G&G: G&G: Pastor Faith Churn-Smith, welcome to the Grace & Glory Family. Let’s start with your 17th Anniversary, are you at all surprised at where you are today.
Pastor Smith: To begin, I would like to express my gratitude for this opportunity. The only thing that has surprised me about this journey is my late husband; Pastor Will Smith hasn’t been here to celebrate the significant milestone in our ministry’s history. I always believed we’d be working together side by side. But despite trials, disappointments, challenges and setbacks, God continues to maintain and sustain our ministry. Seventeen years of consistency is to be celebrated. He’s faithful to us, and I’m grateful.
G&G: Did you always know that God was calling you into ministry, or was it a journey of discovery?
Pastor Smith: This is indeed a complex question. To be candid, I did not anticipate serving in ministry at this level or capacity; however, from an early age, I recognized a calling to preach. One significant experience occurred when I was twelve years old—after having a dream in which my name was repeatedly called, reminiscent of the prophet Samuel. This experience prompted me to seek guidance from my pastor at the time, Bishop Hansel Henry, Jr. of the Mt. Calvary Holy Temple Church. Following our discussion, I became far more intentional about developing my relationship with the Lord and pursuing my spiritual journey.
G&G: Pastor Smith, what were the biggest challenges you faced early in your ministry?
Pastor Smith: At the outset of my pastoral career, one of the most significant challenges I encountered was moving beyond personal preconceptions. Prior to this role, I had not envisioned myself as a pastor; my strengths lay in singing and acting. I anticipated that my contribution would be through music ministry and theatrical performance, as these were areas where I excelled and felt most passionate.
G&G: Who were the people who most influenced or mentored you in your early walk of faith and ministry?
Pastor Smith: Several distinguished individuals played a significant role in shaping my early faith journey. My maternal grandmother, the late Reverend Gloria Jackson, was known for her humility, gentleness, and unwavering devotion; she consistently demonstrated compassion and kindness to those around her. Additionally, Rev. Dr. Amanda E. Williams, Bishop Harold I. Williams, and Bishop Nellie C. Yarborough all made impactful contributions to my life. Although they have passed, each influenced me in meaningful ways, both through direct mentorship and by serving as exemplary figures from varying perspectives.
G&G: Did you face opposition being a woman in ministry?
Pastor Smith: I would not characterize my experience as opposition, but rather as a challenge. Zamar was established by my late husband, William “Will” Smith, Jr. Although I was ordained as a pastor by Apostle Terry Forbes of Helping You Grow Steadfast Ministries, my primary responsibilities were in administration, serving as the executive pastor. Following his passing in March 2010, I was faced with significant decisions and dual tasks of managing personal grief while assuming leadership of a newly founded ministry. In the initial years, there appeared to be considerable scrutiny regarding the ministry’s sustainability after the loss of its senior leader. However, I remained confident that Zamar’s foundation was secure. The organization was grounded not in individual influence or reputation, but in Christ—the solid rock and chief cornerstone. Our core values ensured steadfastness and stability, and I trusted in our continued direction.
G&G: Pastor Smith, has the perception or acceptance of women in pastoral roles changed since you began?
Pastor Smith: Based on my experience, I would state that there has not been a significant change. However, to clarify my perspective, I observed that within the religious organization of my youth, women of strong faith consistently held leadership positions and received support from male leaders at all levels, including the presiding prelate. Throughout my faith journey and ministry, I have remained aligned with individuals and organizations that share these values.
The late Pastor Will Smith, Jr.
G&G: What moments in your ministry have been the most meaningful to you? How has your ministry evolved or grown over the past 17 years?
Pastor Smith: Every ministry moment is meaningful; serving God and His people is an honor. At Zamar, our motto, “Where love is our language and kingdom is our message,” guides all we do. I appreciate our ministry and the dedicated individuals with whom I collaborate. Zamar demonstrates confidence in our identity and recognizes the distinct nature of our mission.
G&G: Looking at your ministry today, if you could go back 17 years, is there anything you would do differently?
Pastor Smith: My initial response would be yes, of course, if I could go back and rewrite history there would be some things I would tweak and adjust. But the truth is the decisions were made and we’re here now…. and they all worked together for our good. Let the church say, amen.
G&G: What lessons have you learned that only time and experience could teach you?
Pastor Smith: I have come to understand that embracing individuality is acceptable, and it is important to have confidence in Zamar’s unique mission and direction.
G&G: Pastor Smith, lastly, what are your hopes or goals for the next season of your ministry?
Pastor Smith: Our aspiration for Zamar’s next season is that God will keep using us for his glory and continue expanding our capacity and ability to serve and support others with excellence. I hope we gain more opportunities to support, empower, and equip people for their kingdom purpose. We aim to seek and embrace new opportunities that enable our ministry to engage, nurture, and empower individuals, equipping them to pursue their destiny and kingdom purpose effectively.
G&G: Finally, what advice would you give to young women feeling called to ministry today?
Pastor Smith: The advice I would give young women who feel the call to ministry is this… first of all begin by seeking clarity through prayer. It is essential to ensure that your sense of calling is clear. Additionally, it can be highly beneficial to build relationships with at least three experienced mentors—who need not all be women-- who can provide support, guidance, and constructive feedback when necessary. Most importantly, choose individuals who will commit to praying with and for you throughout your journey.
Outreach Ministry
G&G: Pastor Smith, would you give us an overview of your transitional housing outreach ministry? What inspired you to want to create a transitional housing program for women and children and young adults released from the foster care system?
Pastor Smith: The transitional housing project is currently in its initial phase. Our strategic planning team is diligently developing the essential components required to realize this vision. The primary objective is to offer temporary housing and additional resources to women with children, as well as to young adults who have aged out of the foster care system and are experiencing homelessness or displacement, providing them with the support needed to secure permanent housing.
My motivation stemmed from recognizing a shortage of such facilities within our community. In light of this need, I believe it is the responsibility of the church to proactively seek solutions and address these gaps.
G&G: What specific needs did you see in the community that led you to focus on women and children in transition?
Pastor Smith: Resources for this population are scarce, often fully occupied, and the limited assistance available is temporary with minimal follow-up.
Zamar Worship Center & Ministries’ events hosted over the years.
G&G: Pastor Smith, what kind of support will you provide to the women and children and young adults in the program? How long will participants typically be allowed to stay in the transitional housing program?
Pastor Smith: In addition to offering safe housing and meeting physical needs, we will create options for career development, education, vocational training, and spiritual support.
The objective of the program is to offer comprehensive resources and support that enable participants to achieve a successful transition from the program within six to nine months of their admission to the residence.
G&G: Pastor Smith, do you plan to partner with other organizations, counselors, or job training programs to help support residents?
Pastor Smith: When the time comes, we look forward to forming partnerships and collaborating with other ministries, organizations, and community resources. I believe that by working together, we can achieve greater impact.
G&G: What are the biggest challenges or the most pressing needs in running this outreach program— financial, volunteer, spiritual, or otherwise?
Pastor Smith: As we are currently in the initial phase, my primary challenge is maintaining motivation and concentration on current objectives. While the other factors you mentioned are also important, my main focus right now is to remain resilient and continue progressing with the task at hand, taking it one step at a time.
G&G: Pastor Smith, will you incorporate faith and spiritual development into the lives of the women and children, and the young adults?
Pastor Smith: Faith and spiritual development are emphasized within the program and will feature weekly Bible study sessions and worship services as part of participants’ activities. This initiative aims to assist women, children, and young adults in rediscovering their identity, self-worth, and sense of purpose. Every opportunity will be utilized to support each participant, fostering an environment where individuals experience care and encouragement through meaningful human interaction.
G&G: What are your dreams or long-term goals for this transitional housing program?
Pastor Smith: My vision is for the ministry to manage multiple residences throughout Baltimore City and County. Additionally, I aim to establish transitional housing for men reentering society after release from penal institutions, providing essential support for their reintegration and fostering their development as engaged members of the community.
G&G: Pastor Smith, finally, what do you hope the women and children take away from their time in your program?
Pastor Smith: Our goal is for everyone who enters the doors of the Pour House when they leave, they felt safe, seen, protected and included as part of our community, and to understand that love is demonstrated through actions.
G&G: Pastor Smith, thank you so much for sharing with us.
Pastor Smith: I appreciate the opportunity to share with your readers. Thank you for allowing me to express my thoughts. To God be the glory.
Zamar Worship Center & Ministries’ events hosted over the years.
Pastor Mary Alessi Special service on Zoom with the ministry in Pakistan Worshiping at ZWC
DEBNAM Dr. Carla
Breakthrough Is Coming
How can you get to your destiny and purpose with power and potential? You get there with help from God, with persistence in prayer and with plans to guide you along the way.
Sometimes it seems that the distance between our wants, desires and dreams are our ability to stay on course. Planning and prevailing could be the difference between fulfilling our goals and seeing them fade away. There are so many obstacles that can hinder our efforts to obtain our objectives yet we must continue to work towards them anyway. Distractions and disappointments are always nearby when you and I get the courage to pursue our passion yet we must press on in spite of the difficulties.
Learning to make the most of your situation is one of the most valuable lessons we can acquire. Of course it’s not that simple to get past your past or your present, therefore you must have insight and intelligence
to make the most of your breakthrough when it comes. Jesus encourages us to, “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Matthew 7:7-8 (NLT).
Anyone needing a breakthrough must be willing to participate in its manifestation. Now is not the time to sit idly by watching others pursue their dreams. There is no time limit on the fulfillment of your vision because the vision is for an appointed time so we must wait for it to come to pass.
Waiting is part of the breakthrough process. It is the period between receiving the vision and realizing the vision. Many of us have been on paths that have had a long waiting period. It may have been the completion of
a college degree, job training for career advancement, meeting and then marrying your spouse, finding a church home, cultivating a growing relationship with Christ, seeing your children grow and mature and the list goes on. In each of these endeavors there was a time of waiting. This is the part of our journey that gets difficult and can be discouraging especially when it looks like our breakthrough will never come.
The Apostle Paul encourages us not to give up or give in to our feelings or observations of our progress but to press on. “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” Galatians 6:9 (NLT). We are too close to give up on God’s deliverance and assurance to be with us through every season of our lives. Breakthrough is coming! Be prepared, wait with expectation and be ready to receive what God has promised.
The Women’s Auxiliary
THE UNITED BAPTIST MISSIONARY CONVENTION AND AUXILIARIES OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND, INC.
HONORING
Missionary/Evangelism and Outreach Ministries
“Spreading God’s Word Proclaiming His love and Serving Others” - 1 Peter 4:10 NKJV
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to charity. Contact Sis. Pamela A. McCullough at 917-748-1152 or waserviceawardsbanquet@gmail.com for more information.
Carenda
Deonne Min.
Crossing Over
Anyone who is in my intimate circle knows how important crossing over from one month to the next is for me. My previous Pastor, Dr. Victoria Michaels Jefferson, educated me on the power of God’s great grace. Oh ye of little faith if you only view a new month as “mortgage is due.” In doing so, you have missed the movement of God! He has shifted you out of the old to discover something new.
You now have the opportunity to receive new revelation, insight and direction. One of my favorite scriptures in the Bible is Ephesians 2:10 which states, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to walk in.” When the Lord crosses you over into a new month, He has already prepared the good works that you will accomplish and occupy.
Take a moment and think of your destiny helpers that will locate you in this new month. Think of all the abundant wisdom you will obtain this new month, if you ask of the Lord. Think of the all the things that will be added unto you, when you place Christ first!
There are so many wonderful things to consider. If I may go a little deeper, think of the forgiveness you will extend to others and to yourself; and I am just bold enough to believe that whatever was unfinished in the previous month, think of those things being
completed and settled in this new month. I need you to get excited about the goodness of the Lord! I need you to get excited about the gift of breath. In this new month the only thing that is holding you back is YOU!
Stop living carelessly unconscious of the extraordinary things happening within you and for you. If you are reading this, the Lord has crossed you over into a new month and what a disappointment it would be to stay in a posture of complaining and laziness. Let the fullness of God’s glory be your fatten portion this month. Don’t you see that things in your life are changing? Don’t you perceive that things are shifting in your business and/ or ministry?
I know some of you might feel you do the same routines, day after day and month after month. However, I am challenging you to discover something new. Discover something new about yourself and Christ. The Lord did not cross you over into a new month to have a downcast spirit, but rather to discover the beauty of who He is and the steps He has ordered for you to take. Cross over in this new month with an “undignified praise!” You will discover something GREAT!
Live life on the promise of IMPACT!
Min Carenda Deonne Author/Speaker/Life Coach www.stress-easy.com
Clarinda
Burston-White
In The Valley
Valleys in the Bible are used as analogies for challenging and difficult times. In the Word of God, valleys represent hardships, testing, and suffering. Psalm 23:4 describes a valley as “the shadow of death,” indicating that some valley experiences can feel like you’re nearing death because of hopelessness and despair.
I have often called my valley experiences “life,” meaning trials and tribulations often come without warning. These can include being laid off from a longtime job, a loved one being diagnosed with a terminal disease, or a struggling marriage. In many of my own valley experiences, I didn’t feel prepared or mature enough to handle them. During those times, I found solace in the Word of God.
Isaiah 54:10 ESV says, “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”
Every time I felt overwhelmed with life’s challenges, I found hope and strength through my relationship with Christ.
Valley experiences are necessary for spiritual growth and development. Though they represent tough times, they can also represent growth and abundance. Britannica notes valleys are often associated with fertility—abundant water sources, ideal for agriculture, and rich in resources. Spiritually, valleys symbolize places of refuge, restoration, humility, and critical decision-making.
God sometimes leads us into valleys. For example, in Ezekiel 37, the prophet Ezekiel has a vision where God leads him into a valley of dry bones. Ezekiel 37:1: “The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones.”
Can These Bones Live?
The opening verses of Ezekiel 37 portray a moment of intimacy between God and Ezekiel. God leads him to a valley and begins a conversation. Ezekiel 37:2-3 says, “He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. 3 He asked me, ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’”
This rhetorical question challenged Ezekiel to consider the possibility of growth and restoration. I believe God sometimes asks us the same. “Can these challenges
change?” Maybe you’re in your own valley of dry bones. God might be asking you—can you see the potential for restoration?
When facing a valley season in life, here are a few things to consider:
1. Pray
Prayer is communication with God. When tough times come, prayer should be the first step. It is during prayer that God gives direction and peace. Mark 11:24 ESV says, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Prayer is how Ezekiel made sense of his valley. Prayer is the key and faith unlocks the door.
2. Listen
An old preacher once said, “God will not lead you to something and leave you there.” God provides instruction—but are we listening? When we pray, we should expect to hear from God. In Ezekiel 37, God told Ezekiel to prophesy to the dry bones and speak life over them.
Proverbs 1:33 ESV: “But whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.” Listening brings peace and ease. When I was younger, I was rebellious and believed no one could tell me anything. That mindset led me to make many poor choices. My rebellious heart blocked me from hearing God. One day I opened my heart and listened. God told me to repent. He explained that my rebellion was separating me from Him and making life harder. Since that day, I’ve lived in peace with God, knowing He has the answers—I do not.
3. Obey
In Ezekiel 37, the prophet did exactly what God told him to do. Obedience brings blessings. Deuteronomy 28 says, “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands... All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.” Following God’s instructions opens doors for unimaginable blessings.
Pastor Clarinda Burston-White Miracle Church
Please send your prayer requests or testimonies to: whathappenswhenwomenpray@gmail.com.
Brandie
Manigault
DAILY DEVOTIONS
(Excerpts from NEW DAY FRESH START- by Brandie Manigault)
DAY 1
The mark of a GREAT leader is not found in big words, outward appearance, or financial backing, but it is found in our ability to serve those that you lead. What separates a GREAT leader from an ordinary leader is in our willingness to humble ourselves enough to make those who follow us more important than ourselves. People will only be impressed by our big words and leadership “attitude” for a short period of time. What will make them loyal, faithful, and dedicated is how we view them in our heart and treat them with our corresponding actions.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to lead with humility. Prefer the “follower” over yourself and watch the difference it will make.
Matthew 20:28, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
DAY 2
When you know who you are and are aware of your worth then you will not allow your current situation to cause you to feel ashamed. Things may not look the way you picture them in your future. You may be living paycheck to paycheck when you know God has called you to be a financier of the Kingdom.
Your family may not be serving God when you know He has called your whole house to be saved, but when you know that these are temporal things that can turn in a moment’s time, thus revealing the greatness that you have always known was there, then you can walk through this season with dignity and pride. Having the knowledge that at any given moment everything can shift for you will empower you to remain hopeful when things look different than you think they should.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to hold your head up high and see yourself in the light of your promise.
Matthew 21:5, Zechariah 9:9, “Tell the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your King is coming to you, lowly, and sitting on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey!”
DAY 3
What have you allowed to come in and invade your space altering God’s original plan for you. Your home was designed to be a place of peace and rest, but somehow has turned into a place of chaos and confusion. Your job was intended to be a place for you to use your gifts to generate income and has become a place of competition and gossiping. School was supposed to be for learning and is now a party zone. The original design is what creates an environment for you to prosper. It lays the foundation for everything to build on.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to rediscover the original plan and then do what is necessary to take your space back. Matthew 21:12-14 (MSG), “Jesus went straight to the Temple and threw out everyone who had set up shop, buying and selling. He kicked over the tables of loan sharks and the stalls of dove merchants. He quoted this text: My house was designated a house of prayer; You have made it a hangout for thieves. Now there was room for the blind and crippled to get in. They came to Jesus and he healed them.”
DAY 4
Love... the governing force behind all we do, the backbone of all decisions, the foundation on which all things are built. Love will not only teach us how to treat others, but it will teach us how to treat ourselves. Love will open the door for right decision making. When we allow love to be the deciding factor on whether or not we do or say something then we are guaranteed a victory. Love will always win if it is used. It is the ultimate trump card. It wins in every situation regardless of what else is going on around it. Love has the ability to change everything every time.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to let love be the deciding vote. Then watch as the outcomes become favorable each time.
Matthew. 22:37-40, “Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
DAY 5
There is a saying, “Do as I say, not as I do”. How often do we say one thing and do something completely different? We allow our circumstances to make us appear untrustworthy. We all drop the ball occasionally, whether it is on purpose or unintentional. The question is not, “will we have to go back on our word” because things happen; the question is how often do we do it? Do we exhibit inconsistent behavior more often than not, or are we the ones that others know they can trust? Dependability is a desirable character trait that we should strive for daily.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to let your words and your actions match. Be a good example.
Matthew 23:2-3, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do.”
iambandaid Brandie Manigault
Rooted
Rhoda
TURNER
It was storming here in Arizona one day and the aftermath of the storm were limbs lying on the ground. My daughter and I were talking about the trees and the wind. She asked me why some trees were uprooted while other trees just lost some limbs. That conversation took us to the word of God and how deep the tree roots can be.
Tree roots are made up of large, woody perennial roots and smaller, short-lived feeder roots. They primarily grow horizontally in the top 6–24 inches of soil but can reach depths of 3–7 feet in favorable conditions. Tree roots have several functions, including:
• Anchorage: Stabilize and keep the tree upright.
• Absorption: Take in water, oxygen, and nutrients from the soil.
• Storage: Store food and water.
• Production: Create plant growth hormones like cytokinin and gibberellins.
The tree function and your spiritual function are similar.
• Anchorage: Your roots in the word of God keep you grounded and unmovable. Being rooted in Christ
• Colossians 2:6-7: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
• Absorption: Eating from the word of God. John 6:35, where Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”
• Storage: Hide the word in my heart. If we hold on to the word it helps to keep us from falling into temptation- “Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.”
Psalms 119:11 NKJV
• Production: People being able to see your fruit. Your fruit will benefit yourself and others. Matthew 5:14-16 says, “You are the light of the world.”
That’s what God expects from us, to be rooted and grounded. When the enemy comes to attack, you are prepared because you are rooted in the word of God.
Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
It's September, and the lazy days of summer are over. It's back to school for the kids and maybe some parents too. The fall season often brings stress to the family. Schedule changes, homework, school fundraisers, and evening crunch times can intensify the demands on your time. Take heed, and consider the following strategies for a smooth and less stressful transition to autumn.
First, breathe. Plan your days and work your plan. Develop a family schedule. This will help you and the kids stay on task and keep up with the pace of the week. Identify which daily tasks are most important. Think about which tasks can be delegated, which can be performed later, and which can be delayed to the weekend. Consider the job of making lunch for school. Can you trust this task to your nine-year-old? They may like the idea of preparing lunch for themselves. It helps them feel more independent and may free up some of your evening or early morning duties. Can your child purchase lunch at least once or twice a week or on special days? My kids bought lunch twice a week on "pizza day." Therefore, I was left to consider what was for lunch only three times a week. Make it a routine to pack up all school supplies and bookbags at night before bed. Designate an area in the house where everything is kept. Remind your spouse to do the same. Lay out the outfit for tomorrow before bedtime. This gives you time to discuss what is appropriate before the morning rush to leave the house.
Include a weekly or daily prayer routine. The Holy Spirit will bring calm to every situation. It doesn't have to be a long session. Reserve 5-10 minutes at dinner or bedtime to pray for each other as a family.
Consider meal planning for the week. Several pieces of meat and a large portion of vegetables can last 2-3 dinners or could provide lunch. Avoid overloading your schedule with multiple after-school or weekend events and classes. Recent
studies show that kids are pressured to participate in numerous recreational activities that provide limited relaxation time. Involve the children in one or two activities. Consider the time commitment and the travel distance from home. Can you develop a relationship with another parent to carpool to the activities? Remember, when your child is involved in an activity, you have essentially joined too! Maybe your child can participate in one fall and one spring activity.
Put down the phones and technology to talk in the car during the rides to and from school and activities. Connect with your family. Review the daily routine, talk about their day and your plans for the weekend.
Identify tasks you can do in intervals. I wash clothes throughout the week. I put a load of clothes in the washer before work. When I come home, I transfer that load to the dryer and may put another load of clothes in the washer. I fold the dry clothes and restart the rotation in the morning if needed.
Keep the bathroom spray cleaner handy and near the shower caddy. Teach the kids to spray down the shower after they use it. Spray and rinse the sink after you brush your teeth. Put bowl cleaner in the toilet before you leave the house; brush and rinse the toilet bowl when you come home in the evening.
Set aside at least one weekend a month to do nothing. Relax. Have a movie night. Forget the routine. Have food delivered to your home. Take time to reset.
Back-to-school season doesn't have to be stressful. Be intentional with your time, and remember, the Christmas holiday is 90 days away, and summer will soon follow.
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu
Saulsbury Siobhan
Tip 1
Each person must define for themselves what success looks like, however, there are some truths that are universal. In order to achieve success, we have to be willing to put in the work. There will be a time when preparation will meet opportunity, and we must be ready to take action! Accept that mistakes are inevitable, but it’s important to learn from them and do our best not to repeat them. Lastly, we can’t get so focused on the goal that we miss the journey along the way. As we’re working toward a better financial future for ourselves and the next generation, we should take time to enjoy the present and be proud of what we’ve accomplished so far.
Tip 2
While budgeting does take time to learn and perfect, it’s a powerful money lesson for kids and teens to learn. Teaching them how to budget while young will help set them up to have a better relationship with money in adulthood. We always want “better” for the next generation and that includes avoiding living paycheckto-paycheck because of living outside of their means or habitual overspending. Plan now, not only for the life you want to live, but also for the financial freedom you want the next generations to experience.
Tip 3
Sometimes while trying to be more responsible with money, choosing whether or not to make a purchase can be difficult. If you’re having a hard time deciding, consider what the purchase costs you vs. the value it will bring you. If you have to work 3 hours to earn the price of a pair of shoes but they aren’t very comfortable or you’d only wear them once in a while, the value might not outweigh the cost. These decisions are personal for each person, family or budget. Think about the added value before making purchases to hopefully avoid regretting the price paid.
