Grace&Glory 1
scripture
2 January January2022 2022 2
Grace&Glory 3
January 2022
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on the cover: Paul W. Diggs, MPA, Broker Vice President of Operations Phaze 10 Property Management Services 10 W. Eager Street Baltimore, MD 21201 www.phazeten.com
Cover Story pgs 8-11 This month we are welcoming to the Grace & Glory Family Paul W. Diggs! Paul Diggs is the Vice-President of Operations of Phaze 10 Property Management Services in Baltimore, MD. Paul talks with us exclusively about his inspiring journey as a realtor, sharing some of his personal stories of trials, triumphs, and achievements. Paul believes his purpose is to offer the Keys to eternal life; selling a home and helping a client is a bonus.
Special Feature -
CAMPUS MINISTRY pgs 18-19 Bethel Campus Fellowship at Coppin State University - Abigail Graham
Healthy Soul 22 JOY BRINGER
26 MONTHLY MANNA
Season Bowers
Min. Carenda Deonne
Joy In Every Season- WINTER
Your Year To Surrender All
28 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Pastor Rhoda Turner
New Year! New Beginning! Same You! 4 January 2022
30 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Elder Tracey George
Destined For D.O.U.B.L.E
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
14 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
To Be Continued
34 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS
Ericka J.
Healthy Life
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2
32 HEALTH MATTERS
Contributors............................................ 6
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
January is National Mentoring Month
From the Editor....................................... 7
Call Tyson
Lesesne
Realtor The Vurganov Group
If you’re thinking about buying or selling, I’m here to answer your questions and help you get the best market value. Let’s talk!
443-554-9697
– Tyson
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Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
Grace&Glory 5
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 Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Rhoda Turner Season Bowers GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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6 January 2022 6 January 2022
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. ELDER TRACEY GEORGE Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church. MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration. 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. SEASON BOWERS Season Bowers- is a Pastor, radio host, and Joy bringer! After spending over 20 years as a professional actor on stage, the Lord called her into full-time ministry. Season is passionate about releasing freedom and joy to the Glory of God in every way she can everywhere she goes.
from the editor
New Hope “Whatever with the past has gone, the best is always yet to come.” - Lucy Larcom It is a brand New Year and many of us are looking toward this New Year with a fresh new hope! With every New Year it is everyone’s hope that all things will be new again. At the start of every New Year we look back and reflect upon what did or did not happen. Sometimes we look back with regret and sometimes we look back with thanksgiving. Nevertheless there isn’t much left to do about 2021 but let it go and keep moving forward. There is always new hope for the future. The modern idea of hope is [to wish for, to expect, but without certainty of the fulfillment; to desire very much, but with no real assurance of getting your desire]. However in the word of God, hope is an indication of certainty. Hope in Scripture means [a strong and confident expectation]. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. (Romans 8:24-25) What a wonderful thought it is that some of the best days of our lives haven’t happened yet. God is often called “the God of Hope.” This means He is the source of all real hope. If we are going to have hope (confident expectation), it must come from Him for He alone has the power to give it. Hope gives us power to live courageously, to be all God has called us to be in Christ. In order to embrace all that is new for this brand New Year we have stepped into, we have to remain hopeful. Always remember your present situation is not your final destination, the best is yet to come. What is my assessment for the New Year? Well I don’t have a catchy slogan, I don’t have a theme or a prophetic word; what I do have is what the word of God says: God will still be faithful and His mercies will still be new every morning. (Lamentations 3:21-23). God will still do exceeding abundantly above all that I ask or think. (Ephesians 3:20) God will still provide all my needs according to His riches. (Philippians 4:19)
e i k c a J
EPPS
God will still forgive all my sins and heal all my diseases. (Psalm 103:2-3)
God will still empower me to do all things through Christ that strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13) In 2022, I know that God will still be my strong tower, my fortress, my buckler, my friend, my comforter and my peace. I know that God will still be whatever I need Him to be! This New Year my prayer is that you will never lose your hope for the future; the hope that depends on the Word of God. We have a new hope every day of the year; it depends on knowing God and resting in His grace. “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 Say it today . . . and remind yourself often, “I know the best is yet to come!” HAPPY NEW YEAR! Grace&Glory 7
Paul W.
Interview With
Phaze 10 Property Management Services Phaze 10 Realty Baltimore, MD
G&G: Mr. Diggs, welcome to Grace & Glory! We are delighted to start the New Year 2022 with you like our cover feature. Since everyone will be talking about New Year’s resolution, let’s start there, do you have any resolutions or declarations for the New Year? Paul Diggs: Thank you for the opportunity, G&G! I recently had a conversation with my Pastor, Bishop Marcus A. Johnson, Sr. of New Harvest Ministries in Southeast Baltimore. We had a great discussion, as always, about the outlook of the New Year. He has a 6 year old grandson diagnosed autistic that is beginning to speak, using words more and more. From what I understand, if you know or have a person who has autism, it can be quite an adventure. His grandson recently yelled the words, “It’s a New Now!” And how true, “It is a New Now” for everyone. With covid running rampant throughout the world, political and civil unrest, the lack of hope, increased addictions, increased food prices, supply shortages, and Paul Diggs, financial problems, MPA, Broker, Vice President we are all being faced of Operations with living in a new era, such as we have 8 8 January January 2022 2022
never seen. Maybe personal issues are now coming to the forefront, and self-reflections and inflections are causing one to combat or deal with deeper heart issues. I am moving into the New Year of 2022, knowing that I reside in my New Now. In 2022, I plan to listen to the audible voice of God, to be present, open to making more personal adjustments, love more, forgive more, let past issues go, and walk towards fulfilling my God purpose mission while I am still vibrant and spry. Most recently, I was diagnosed with stage two prostate cancer. Subsequently, my views have shifted after receiving such a diagnosis. However, I am optimistic that I will overcome this challenge because of early detection! That said, I implore all men to get the necessary screenings, especially if there is a family history of a similar disease. I will be 43 on December 30; and who knew that my New Now would consist of battling cancer. Yet, despite this temporary inconvenience, I still win! G&G: Mr. Diggs, you are the Broker for Phaze 10 Property Management Services/Phaze 10 Realty, let’s talk about your career as a realtor. How did this career choice begin for you? And how long have you been working as a realtor? Paul Diggs: Wow–I have been a licensed Realtor in Maryland for over 20 years. Time waits for no one! True story: I started real estate because I was once homeless. I thought I would become an architect or
Q&A real estate developer as a child. I would build homes out of cannot break any fair housing laws when it comes to religion, Legos, sketch communities on paper, and collect new homes but I recognize that people like me are looking for one thing: magazines. When I realized I was homeless, which was roughly peace that surpasses all understanding. A home rental or around–I think 9th grade, I stopped everything that I dreamt purchase can be a great conduit to realizing such peace or about and went to the dumpster and threw everything away--the refuge. I understand what it is like to lose everything and not magazines, the Legos, my drawings–all of it. I also stopped be at peace. I’ve lost real estate, experienced two divorces, believing in God. Why should I believe in this God everyone been wronged by business partners, wrong in my dealings with stated was so good? That was others, filed bankruptcy, suffered my thought at that time. (I depression, suicidal thoughts, hate to admit it, but I had those drugs, alcohol, insecurities, thoughts after my conversion surviving sexual abuse, and to Christ throughout my walk questioning who I am due to with God). However, after projected beliefs of others. And the arrival of my firstborn in these factors are enough to drive 1996, I renewed my personal any person mad. However, I am commitment to Christ as my a survivor, and I have a story Savior. I accepted him at the to tell, and it all correlates and brink of suicide—the internal comes together in real estate. pain I had appeared more I share this information not to significant to me than life itself. garner pity or more real estate Yet, after recommitting my life sales, but because there may to Christ and attending a local be a person who will read this church in Harford County, I article, and find hope to fight! realized that I had the keys to eternal life and began to live G&G: Mr. Diggs, normally again. So, in the year 2002, I most New Year’s resolutions officially became a licensed real are about health and wellness, estate agent. but some look to the New Year For me, a home represents to make other changes in their stability. A home is a place life, such as buying or selling a where families dwell or come home. Would you say the New together, a place of refuge from Year is a good time to buy or sell the outside world. Some may be a home? reading this, and their home is Paul Diggs: Let's talk about far from safe. Some people may wellness for a minute! be experiencing abuse physically Please get the necessary or mentally; some may have or recommended health deplorable living conditions, or screenings. If you have THE TEAM: Paul Diggs, MPA, Broker, Vice President of Operations, find themselves at the brink of a mental illness, such Yolanda Phelps, MBA, Vice President of Administration losing everything they know to as depression or and Kevin Thornton, Vice President of Facility be home. Trust me, I understand. anxiety, please seek a I now know my purpose: to offer individuals the Keys to competent licensed therapist. I have one, and she is eternal life. If I get a home sale, or a contract to manage an the best!! It took me years to find the right person, investor/homeowners property, that’s the bonus. “And I will but I didn’t give up. And I have a Pastor whom give you the keys of the Kingdom of heaven, and whatever I trust. It took me a long time to trust a Pastor you may bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever who actively cared enough for me despite my you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:19 complexities. NKJV) I have mentioned before about the New Now. For many years, I did not understand my purpose in real I firmly believe the New Now represents an estate, though I thought I did, by placing people in homes and excellent time for purchasing or selling a making a living. In part, that is true; however, I understand home. When deciding to buy/sell a home, it the purpose is a lot bigger than myself. Now, I know that I has to be deliberate and planned. And despite Continued on page 10 Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 99
Q&A
Continued from page 9
the fact that we live in different times, homeownership is still available for those seeking a home. For those who may be facing credit challenges, it is just a challenge. Our team can help you through credit challenges. It may take a little time and patience, but homeownership is still possible. G&G: Mr. Diggs, for someone looking to buy or sell a property, what are the most important resources buyers or sellers should be using? Paul Diggs: A buyer or seller should consider doing additional research. Educating oneself on the various real estate resources, market trends, and understanding their financial portfolio will prove invaluable. Our
5. Know well the local areas of interest to their clients 6. Understand the time frame for their clients 7. Understand the client's motivation for selling, buying, or the need for property management 8. Operating with honesty and integrity while serving their clients Our company stands out from the rest because we understand the myriad Phazes (Phases) of life. Hence, our name is Phaze 10 Realty/Property Management Services. We have synergy amongst our team, and we are eager to help clients achieve their goals. Yolanda Phelps, our Vice-President of Administration, and Kevin Thornton, our Vice-President of Facilities, have a plethora of experiences. We all work together with one-accord to sometimes even make the impossible possible. At Phaze 10, we have a combination of over 30+ years in Real Estate and Property Management. Our staff specializes in many areas, from Maintenance to Affordable Housing, offering services that address all needs. We are certified and licensed in the following: • Maryland Real Estate Brokers License • Certified Financial Specialist • Management Occupancy Review Specialist • Tax Credit Certified Specialist • Public Housing Executive Manageme Certification • Housing Choice Voucher Executive Management Certification (Section 8) • Project-Based Certification • Certified Hearing Officer • Certified Occupancy Specialist • Certified Maintenance Manager Also serving on the following Boards:
job at Phaze 10 is to lead a prospective homebuyer or seller to the resources to navigate their ships towards achieving the most desirable outcomes. G&G: Mr. Diggs, what qualities make an excellent real estate agent? What makes you stand out from your competitors? Paul Diggs: With over 30+ years of experience, our team has seen it all. A good real estate agent will have the following attributes: 1. Communicate well and regularly with their clients 2. Proactively guide their clients 3. Listen intensively to their clients 4. Motivate their clients 10 10 January January2022 2022
• The Maryland Association of Housing and Redevelopment Agencies (MAHRA) • MARC NAHRO Executive Board, Secretary For home buyers, we offer comprehensive services as a buyer’s agent, from arranging mortgage option; helping to evaluate future home resale potential; as well as providing advice on negotiating individual offers, while walking clients through their closing process. For our homeowners, we offer a variety of options in handling your home sale from evaluating its potential in the current market and marketing it to a specific audience, securing the top dollar for the home and ensuring the closing process runs smoothly. We even
Q&A offer comprehensive property management options for those that are still not ready to sell. G&G: Mr. Diggs, why should someone hire you as their agent/ broker, what do you do to make sure a client’s needs are met? Paul Diggs: Good question. Our team, as I have mentioned, has full industry knowledge. We know what it takes to get the job completed, and we are sensitive to the needs of our clients. We are far from perfect; however, we have the heart and commitment to serve. We LOVE what we do, and it shows through our interactions with our clients. Simply stated, it does not feel like work or a burden when you love what you do. Our previous clients have pleasantly seen how we operate, firsthand. And we are confident our new clients will see and experience the same. G&G: Mr. Diggs, what has been your most challenging real estate experience? Paul Diggs: My most challenging real estate experience! Ha, I have many stories I can tell. In 2008, the real estate market tanked. In my opinion, predatory lending was at an all-time high, and folks were being qualified for homes that they couldn’t afford. However, some clients insisted on getting the McMansions or higher-priced homes, and I reluctantly complied with their request. Regrettably, it has been so disheartening to hear that some of them lost their houses, because they couldn’t afford the payments. In reality, many folks at that time lacked the requisite credit scores and actual income, but chose to do stated income to qualify for the purchase. Unfortunately, their stated income was inflated above what they could realistically afford.
price was just right, and more importantly, it was a place that I instinctively knew was the right fit for them. As I was showing the family the house, their son was overjoyed at the idea of him having his room. I believe they all shared a room or the child’s bed was in the living room—I can’t quite remember. A few days before settlement, the child was hit by a motor vehicle and was hurt severely. The family didn’t know what was going to happen to their child. On top of that, I had to navigate through some rough patches with their loan. Their loan was in underwriting, and the banks needed more of the same paperwork that the buyer had supplied prior. I will admit, the home buying process can be a bit stressful at times, but it's my job to bring everything together, if at all possible. However, it was possible, and I was able to finally get the house sold. The same day we went to settlement was the exact same day their child came home from the hospital. The child was able to attend settlement with their parents. And when I tell you that the child cried when I handed the parents the keys is an understatement! The parents were first-time homebuyers with a three-bedroom single-family home! The child had their OWN room! That child knew that a stable home meant something. I was honored to be part of their story in realizing their dream of homeownership.
G&G: Mr. Diggs, lastly, as a realtor, do you have any words of advice or thoughts on the ever-changing real estate market? Paul Diggs: As my Pastor mentioned, we are in our New Now. Things are everchanging in our current climate. Don’t lose heart, and remember all things can work together for your good. If I didn’t know what I know now, I would think God wasn’t on my side. I have experienced a lot, but I know who has the Key to my soul and is the final authority. Lastly, I am also available to speak G&G: Mr. Diggs, what has been your with churches or other organizations most rewarding selling experience? about helping men/women and boys/ Paul Diggs: The most rewarding girls to overcome the stigma and selling experience was with this ZOOM Meeting with a client the pain of sexual abuse. My couple who had a son. Their previous purpose is more significant than selling a person a living conditions were subpar, and their credit wasn’t great. It home. If I can save one life from the pain of sexual took us a year to get them qualified for a home loan, but I/they abuse, I am here to help. I am a graduate of the consistently met the benchmarks I laid out. They wanted this University of Baltimore, with a Master of Public nice single-family home with a huge yard, the picket fence—I Administration, Class of 2021. mean the works. However, I knew their financial situation and what they could afford. I was a little nervous because I thought ♦♦♦ I would never find them the right home in the neighborhood they For speaking engagements email pdiggs@phazeten.com desired. or by cell at 301-793-8938 (text preferred). By a fluke of nature, I found them a home. It was a new Phaze 10 Realty is located at 10 W. Eager Street, listing, and it set back off a quiet street on Loch Raven Blvd. It Baltimore, MD, 21201. Please visit our website at www.Phazeten.com. was everything they could imagine. I was in shock because the Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 11 11
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NEW YEAR'S
Resolutions:
PAY IT FORWARD
LEND A HELPING HAND TO THOSE WHO NEED IT REGISTER AS AN ORGAN, EYE, AND TISSUE DONOR
SAY YES TO SAVING LIVES AT REGISTERME.ORG
12 January 2022
The Right Home. The Right Location.
Right Now!
Paul W. Diggs, MPA Broker
HPR
1st Class Service with Knowledge and Experience
“Today more than ever, home is where the heart is.”
CELL
PHAZE 10 REALTY 301-793-8938 443-327-4603 BROKER
10 W Eager Street | Suite 323 | Baltimore, MD 21210
EQUAL HOUSING O P P O RT U N I T Y
EMAIL PAUL AT
pdiggs@phazeten.com | www.phazeten.com Grace&Glory 13
to your good health
Dr. Carla
DEBNAM Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
14 January January 2022 2022 14
Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
To Be Continued We are at the beginning of a New Year and many of us have looked forward to embracing change and what our futures will look like. We have been anticipating getting back to our pre-covid lives and have made plans to indulge in activities and pursue goals that were put on pause. What we have come to realize is that the normal we seek to embrace may not be easy to achieve. Not because of our mood, lack of motivation or poor planning but because what has changed us over the past two years is still with us.
how we can survive in uncertain times. Our hope is not in our circumstances, politicians or people. Our hope is in God who created the heavens and the earth and everything in between. Living in these times has tested our faith but it is also a testimony of our faith. We have lost family, friends, and have sometimes been alone on the journey but not without God. Jesus is Immanuel, God with us. Jesus knew what it felt like to suffer, be abandoned and to lose people close to him. Jesus knows how we feel and cares about us and our future.
Adjusting and readjusting to the reality of living through a pandemic means we must live with the notion that like covid, life is constantly changing. Instead of the pandemic coming to an end, it has instead continued to impact our lives physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. The past two years have been filled with change and often chaos with many people losing hope and giving in to the temptation to wave the white flag of surrender.
When the winds and waves of life begin to shake up our faith, we still have hope in the promises of God. God has promised to never leave or forsake us. God has promised to comfort us, teach us and renew our minds. We have been promised a new life and a new heart as we follow Christ. We can be confident that the good work that God has begun in us will be continued until Jesus returns. The world may be stressful and out of control in many ways, but our hope is not in what can be seen but what God is doing behind the scenes. The work God is doing is to be continued. Nothing can change what God has started. He has the
As people of faith, we are called to be a light in darkness and to press on knowing our God is with us. This is easier said than done but is
final say!
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Grace&Glory 15 15 Grace&Glory
Majestic Day Event Planners Weddings that are Majestically designed with an exquisite touch!
16 January 2022
Grace&Glory 17
campus ministry
Abigail
Graham
18 18 January January2022 2022
President and Leader of Bethel Campus Fellowship at Coppin State University Hi, my name is Abigail Graham. I am the president and leader of Bethel Campus Fellowship, a Christian student organization at Coppin State University with the mission of leading students to Christ and preparing them to become reliable men and women that God can entrust with His Word for the next generation. We are an organization that is committed to the spiritual growth and development of high school and college students and empowering them to be the next Christian leaders of today’s society. Being an on campus residential student and being a believer has its many challenges, from avoiding the allure of drinking, partying, and smoking to refusing to conform or align with other organizations on campus that do not abide by the Scriptures or promote idol worship. When I first came to Coppin, I believed that I was going to be the only on campus Christian and I would just be locked in my room. In an effort to find friends and community, I attended about 2 or 3 parties during my first week at Coppin, but my spirit was very unsettled as the Holy Spirit within me would be grieved. It wasn’t until I found the BCF Bible study on campus where I felt free, comfortable, accepted, and happy. It is only by God’s grace that we are able to stand firm and flatfooted on the Scriptures as college students and still maintain a personal relationship with God. I make a conscious effort to separate myself from the lusts and attractions of college life. There are many organizations on campus that attempt to lure and initiate students by promising sisterhood, jobs, or joy, many things that freshman college students are desperately seeking. But, unless we have a true knowledge of who our God
is, we will fall victim to the devices of the enemy. I came to a revelation that I did not need to join any other organization to “secure” my future because I serve a God that will provide for all of my needs (Philippians 4:19) and that, if God can’t give it to me, then I don’t want it. For me, the key to preserving my relationship with God came from being in fellowship with other like-minded believers on campus and maintaining my prayer and devotional life, even if that meant getting up at 5am to pray in silence before the rest of my suite wakes up for the day by 6:307am. One of our Bible Study members, Amani Wilson, a freshman at Coppin State University shares her experience as a freshman student and being a Christian on campus, “Overall my experience at a secular university was neutral. However, I always knew I wanted a community of Christians to be around to help each other in our faith. There was a lot to get used to, such as sharing rooms but more than that, having friends who weren't Christians. Of course, this allowed me to share the gospel, which they turned down but still respect my company. In conclusion, attending a nonreligious college fired me up more for God, but it had its trials.” Being a college Christian is hard, but it is feasible if you personally have a relationship with God and not just be a casual church goer. If you truly know Him as your Father and best friend, then nothing that this world can throw at you will be able to separate you from Him. The mission and goal of Bethel Campus Fellowship is to provide a safe and fruitful community of believers on campus where any and every one can feel welcomed and included. Grace&Glory 19
20 January 2022
Grace&Glory 21
joy bringer
Season
BOWERS 22 22 January January2022 2022
Joy in every season - Winter “Winter, spring, summer, fall you’re my favorite Season of all.”
These words were on a large piece of yarn art hung on the wall of my childhood home. Growing up with the name Season wasn’t easy. Kids can be cruel but adults aren't much better. It wasn’t until I was in my teens that my mother shared with me that my name came from Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.” She explained how I came at just the right time in their lives. My name actually means “appointed time” and it’s helped me recognize the inevitable - seasons change. Natural seasons change four times throughout each year based on the earth’s revolution around the sun. Each season has its own unique purpose and characteristics. We know to expect heat and sun in the summer and rain in the spring. While very different, the outcomes of each season greatly depend on the previous season. Winter is known for its short, dark days. The trees are bare and the multicolored beauty of the rest of the year is replaced by greys and browns. The cold often brings snow and ice, limiting our options and leaving us looking for warmth and comfort. The farmer uses this time to rest and plan ahead for the next season. Many animals hibernate and survive off of the stored up food from the previous season. Just like the changes in nature, we experience spiritual seasons in our lives. They change based on our circumstances, relationships and our connection to the Son. If we are not aware of the season we may miss the invitations to plant, water, rest, or go out in search of new territory. It’s also possible that we may be expending extra energy trying to do these things without results because it’s just not the right time. When we recognize what spiritual season it is we can look for Jesus who will help us understand the assignment. This is the best way to find purpose and joy in every season. Spiritual winters often feel bleak. They are dark times where we wonder if the Lord has abandoned us. We can find ourselves wandering hopelessly in the wilderness. In these times it’s often difficult to hear the voice of the Lord and we may feel as if our prayers are not being heard, or worse, ignored. It may seem as if we too have lost our leaves and are left barren and vulnerable. Winter came hard for me in the summer. Instead of enjoying the sun and fun outside, I felt the cold, bleak, wilderness of winter. While I trusted that the Lord was with me, I couldn’t hear him, feel him, or see what He was doing. Everything I had prayed for, planned for, and attached my hopes to fell apart. Even the summer sun couldn’t warm me up. I was numb from the disappointment and sadness. I wandered lost and confused in a winter white out.
Even though I couldn’t see it or feel it, I knew the Lord was doing something. I needed to know. I needed my joy back. “Tis the Season,” He reminded me, “Not to be jolly, but to rest. To settle in for a long winter’s nap.” In a season of bleakness, it is often our inclination to hustle, to plant and cultivate to fill the void. But the void is vital. Winter is a time for rest. After an intense harvest season, the farmer uses the winter to catch up, to rest and to plan for the future. Joy in every season requires the awareness of the Son. Jesus is always with us, extending an invitation to follow him. He knows exactly what we need and when he leads, he doesn’t leave. The Lord was inviting me to hibernate, to accept the season I was in and not hold myself to expectations of a different time. Acceptance is hard for me. I have associated it with defeat. But God graciously reminded me that each season has great purpose. Accepting the winter would allow me to find purpose and joy. It took some time, but once I stopped looking out the window into the seemingly barren and frozen world around me, I accepted the invitation from the Lord to cuddle into His loving arms and sit by the fire. I settled into a new place of intimacy and rest. There were things the Lord wanted to heal. I had been through a lot. I didn’t realize that there was a pile of pain and avoided issues that needed to be addressed from the previous seasons. In the spiritual winter we are invited to shift our priorities from work and productivity to rest and receiving. It’s here where we can confide in the Lord, reflecting on the past season, and even dream and plan for the season to come. My appointed time of winter revealed so much. My purpose was to be a loved child. My joy was the nearness of Jesus. He held me as I rested and listened as I told Him my fears, pain, dreams and desires. Winter’s joy looks different than the other seasons. It’s quiet and peaceful and glistens with hope. If you are in a spiritual winter, remember that you are not alone; the Son is near to keep you warm. While there may not be obvious growth and color on the surface, this season is intended to strengthen you, building your resilience and preparing you for what’s ahead. Winter won't last forever. Seasons change. Spring is coming. Joyfully, Season Bowers
Season Bowers Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509 Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook Grace&Glory 23
24 January 2022
Blessings in the New Year!
Be Happy!
Grace&Glory 25
monthly manna
26 January 2022 26 January 2022
Min. Carenda Deonne
2022
Your Year to Surrender ALL! Surrender ALL! Wow! What a blessing! God has crossed us over into a New Year. I would like to suggest that before you embark on anything new, exciting or challenging, first take some time to just lay before the Lord as an act of worship. Start your year in total surrender. Maybe there were somethings that you did not totally surrender to the Lord in 2021, but it’s imperative that you do for 2022. Will you submit, in full, to the authority of the Lord? How long are you going to keep running and hiding? I believe with all my heart, if you surrender to the Lord, the things you had to contend with in 2021, you will not have to contend with in 2022.
when you pray, seek to know if the Lord is willing. Jesus did. He said, “Father if you are willing take this cup away from me.” However, we can’t stop there. We must also continue as Jesus did by stating, “Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.” Wow! Will you have a “nevertheless” spirit of surrender in 2022? Will you pull up, as my sister Bonnie would say, in your trust in God believing that His will is what’s best for you? When you go through things that you don’t understand, will you still say “nevertheless”? When you are dealing with grief, hurt and being misunderstood will you still kneel?
Jesus teaches us about surrender. When He and his disciples reached the Garden to pray, the disciples could only go but so far. Jesus withdrew from them, knelt and began to pray. (Luke 22:40-42). The first thing Jesus says in his prayer was, “Father, if you are willing take this cup away from me-nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.” There are so many things just in these two scriptures that I want you to remember about surrender.
4. Surrender is a not so easy process. Do you know that Jesus prayed more than once in that Garden? My scripture tells me the second time he prayed it was more fervent. The bible says that His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground. (Luke 22:44). The process of surrendering may not always feel good. You might feel that things are getting worse before they get better. You might get disappointed at people you thought you could depend on. You might feel that the enemy is pressing even harder against you and your family. However, I am here to tell you, through it all, hold on and hold out.
1. No one can surrender on your behalf to the Lord, concerning His will for your life. Even the best intercessors might fall asleep. When you come to the place of surrender, it’s a walk with you and the Lord. It’s a personal encounter and commitment to Him. 2. The first thing you want to physically do is kneel and pray. Jesus teaches us Lordship and order. I agree with Dr. Charles Stanley when he says, “We are tallest on our knees.” When you surrender all, remember to kneel. 3. Your act of surrender should be in the form of prayer. The scripture teaches us that He knelt and began to pray. The Lord desires intimacy with us. Even when we surrender that is an intimate moment with the Lord. It should not be taking lightly. And
I pray that in this New Year 2022. Your intimacy with God will go to another level by surrendering. I hope that the revelation that He gives you, will scatter every evil assignment trying to discourage you by surrendering. I hope that after the kneeling, praying, and anguish you will say, “Nevertheless, your will Lord is what’s best for me.” Happy New Year! Min. Carenda Deonne Your #1 Change Agent www.carendadeonne.com Grace&Glory 27
a woman’s perspective
Rhoda TURNER
New Year! New Beginnings! Same You!
When this year began I had one question that I wanted God to answer for me. "Why do I despise living in Arizona?" Don’t get me wrong, Arizona is a beautiful place with some very nice people. I had no reason to still be unhappy with my move. It took me almost the entire year to find the answer to that question. But I did. I realized that I was so busy holding on to Wisconsin and the things of Wisconsin that I had no room to hold anything else. My hands were full. It wasn’t until recently that I started to let things go, and I allowed God to fill me back up. It was painful for me, because I thought that if I let go of what I had that I would be letting go of things and people that I cherished, but when my niece passed away I decided to live for the moment. I decided to let go and just be present and to live life for the moment I am in. Once I did that a weight was lifted and I was able to meet new people and establish new relationships. What I had to learn was that I had to empty my cup. This year for me has also been a year of reflection. For the first time ever I fasted a whole year. During that time I allowed God to prune me. I allowed Him to reshape me. This year I listened, I cried, I laughed, and I prayed, my heart has been broken and relationships have been evaluated. This year I allowed God to truly direct my path. It was difficult at first, but it was the greatest thing I could have ever done. This year I am determined to walk into 2022 with no regrets. The changes that were made are changes that I will keep because they were needed. I didn’t wait until 2022 to evaluate me. I took the entire year to work on myself. For so long I’ve wasted time treading water, asking God why I hadn't been progressing. This year I realized why? I needed to cut some things off and remove some relationships so that I walk into 2022 as a different person; or should I say a better version of myself. I put in the work for a whole year so that I wouldn’t be disappointed. A lot of times we walk into the New Year with a new plight, a list of things that we are going to do better for the upcoming year. Some make New Year’s resolutions, which translate to mean change. There is something that was seen inside of that person that they don't want to
28 January 2022
remain the same in the New Year. Change is the "magic word" of the New Year. We always vow that the baggage from last year will not be carried into the New Year. Usually, we start off strong with a new resolve, a new mentality, and a new lens by which we are excited about the things to come. However, we end up falling back into the same habits and patterns that we shook off the year before. Why do we do that you ask? It’s because we don’t allow God to intervene. We try to do it all by ourselves when we aren't meant to. We weren't made to make any changes in our own power or strength. Here are a few tips that were beneficial for me that I hope can help you start your New Year off correctly: • PUT GOD FIRST. Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven and all these things will be added unto you. • ALWAYS acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path. • Live life making memories so that you will have no regrets. • Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew; meaning don’t make changes that are out of your reach. Start with several small goals and move from there. • Watch what friendships or relationships that you take with you in the New Year. Some friends were meant to be seasonal and not everlasting. Find out who in your circle is cheering for you to succeed and not fail. Keep them close! Think of your life as a plant. There are some things that you must do to a plant in order for it to live. You have to water it, sing to it, take off the dead leaves and sometimes you’ll have to repot it. That’s what God wanted to do for me and I tied His hands in the past, but not anymore. I’m excited about 2022, ‘cause I’m walking in FREE! I'm cheering you on in your freedom journey. Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
Grace&Glory 29
trinkets to triumph
Tracey
GEORGE 30 30 January January2022 2022
Destined For D.O.U.B.L.E
Happy New Year BLESSINGS! Decree and declare that you are destined for double this year. In this new season, look for God to exceed every one of your expectations and give you double the desires of your heart. Because you are a Kingdom citizen, your destiny is designed by God to include every good and perfect gift. In order to receive everything God has for you, you have to be in a position to receive the bountiful blessings He has in store for you. You can use the acronym, D.O.U.B.L.E., to set yourself up for success in manifesting all of the Master’s many blessings. Decree and declare that you are D-disciplined, O-open, U-united, B-bold, L-loosed, and E-expecting God to do great things for you.
You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. when you operate in discipline in every area of your life. With discipline you can defeat anything that comes your way. Discipline helps you to persevere and press your way through any situation or circumstance. The Apostle Paul reminded the Corinthians that all athletes are disciplined in their training to win a prize and you too should use discipline to help you win the eternal prize of everlasting life (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Be open to new opportunities. You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. when you are not afraid to try something new. At times, God whispers a word to you to do something and if it is out of your comfort zone or something that you not familiar with you may tend to ignore it. Be willing to do something different and get out of your comfort zone. There is always a good chance that you will discover something that would be a blessing to you and others, make an impact, and ultimately give glory to God. Be open and available for God to use you. Imagine how Mary felt when Gabriel told her she would give birth to Jesus, the Savior of the world. She may not have understood the assignment but she trusted God and
was open to the opportunity and said, “Be it unto me according to thy word.” (Luke 1:38) You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. when you unite with God and are confident in the fact that you can do all things through Him that strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). When you link up with your Lord, you can leave all of your fears behind and move forward following Him to your divine destiny. Remember, iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Imagine how great your destiny could be when you unite with fellow Christians and together achieve a goal or support each other in a situation. You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. when you are bold and about your Father’s business. With God on your side, you can be triumphant in any situation even if the task seems impossible to you or to others. Be bold like David and believe you can destroy and have the victory over any giant you may encounter like Goliath (1 Samuel 17:48-50). Choose to be bold and brave because of the big God you serve. You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. because you are loosed to go for the lion’s share, which is the biggest portion of a thing. Jesus came that you might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). Living the lion’s share is the abundant life. No good thing will God withhold from you if you walk upright before Him (Psalm 84:11). You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. when you expect God to exceed every one of your expectations. He wants to give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4) and He is able to do above and beyond what you could ever imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Take the time to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit that resides in you to help you excel in every area of your life. Get ready to go for it all. You are destined for D.O.U.B.L.E. Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 31 31
health matters
January is
Welcome to the New Year! We anticipate great things for ourselves and our families in 2022. Consider sharing your wisdom and insight with another individual by becoming a mentor. What does it mean to be a mentor? Mentors develop positive relationships with individuals. Mentors assist in guiding others in setting and accomplishing goals in business and their personal lives. Mentors are role models and encouragers. Mentors lend a listening, nonjudgmental ear to others. Mentors do not make decisions for their mentees. Mentors listen, ask questions, and give suggestions to support the mentee in making their own decisions. The concept of mentoring is ancient and dates back before Greek mythology. The role of a mentor is derived from the character "mentor" in the book "The Odyssey" whose sole purpose was to guide others in life. If you are a teacher, successful in business or life, you are probably already a mentor. Students, friends, and family members seek your advice on important matters to them. The influence of mentoring is limitless. Mentors can guide in multiple areas, including career development, marriage, child-rearing, education, business, and spiritual growth. Mentoring relationships can be formal or informal. Specific career paths and businesses may have a formal mentoring program where junior-level partners are paired with seasoned professionals to guide them in their careers and learn the culture of the organizations to which they belong. Informal mentoring can begin as friendships that develop into synergistic bonds. Author Anthony K. Tjan, in an article in the "Harvard Business Review", identifies four behaviors of a successful mentor: • Put the relationship before the mentorship. • Focus on character rather than competency. 32 January 2022
• Shout loudly with your optimism, and keep quiet with your cynicism. • Be more loyal to your mentee than you are to your company. Mentoring is a shared experience that benefits the mentor and the mentee. It's rewarding to help and guide others. Mentees benefit from the mentor's wisdom, experiences, told mistakes, networks, and success. Mentoring advocates encourage everyone to commit to one hour each week to mentoring. Advocates believe that everyone has skills and experience to share as a mentor. One hour a week can be all that's needed to effect a positive change in someone's life. January is National Mentoring Month and focuses on sharing experiences in mentoring and paying tribute to those who serve as mentors. Reflect on your relationship with your formal or informal mentors. Take the time to send a note of gratitude for their position and influence in your life. Your mentor will appreciate the recognition for their commitment to mentoring. Take time this month to consider your role as a mentor. Who can you help on your job, in your family, church, or neighborhood? Commit to taking the opportunity to give guidance when a situation arises. Have a happy and prosperous Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels 2022. Share your experiences with Assistant Professor at another by becoming a mentor. Coppin State University
DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com
Grace&Glory 33
GOSPEL INDU Damon Little
Baltimore is known for good music, in various genres and types of music and Damon Little has always given us variations in his style while yet staying true to his soulful contemporary vibe with some good ole “quartet sauce” on it! His latest single “Stand Up” which he wrote, hit the #1 spot on Billboard for the first time in his career as well! BMore Stand UP!
Jonathan Nelson
Ericka J. Steve Harvey
Steve Harvey is hitting 2022 hitting new strides in his career, with a new show! Judge Steve Harvey will be airing on the ABC Network, starting January 4. I’m excited about checking this out, it should be pretty funny, if you watch him on Family Feud or any of his other endeavors, this should just top it all off ! He keeps inspiring us, and is vastly becoming a living legend! Oh and by the way, if you follow him on social media, as you can see his stylist has him looking quite amazing these days with his wardrobe revamp! We see you Steve! 34 January January 2022 2022 34
Congrats to Baltimore’s Own Jonathan Nelson! While Jonathan has given us multiple hits with each of his releases, and many have made Billboard charts, he has hit the #1 Spot with his lead single “Manifest” for the first time in his career, this is huge! There are so many jewels we can grasp from this scenario, especially with being a re-release of the song, his message never changed or his lyrics, it was just time to manifest at his new level! This time it went to #1! Keep “manifesting” and making Baltimore proud!
Bishop Desmond Tu Tu
Last month, December 26, we lost a Major General, in the person of Bishop Desmond Tu Tu. The Nobel Peace Prize Winner and fearless leader of the Apartheid movement, was also the first Black Bishop of Johannesburg, and later in his career became the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town. He fought for racial equality not just in Africa, but across the globe. Much like Nelson Mandela
USTRY NEWS who was South Africa’s first Black President, they shared a devoted passion to see South Africa better.
DMX
If you’ve had a chance to follow the rappers career or even had an opportunity to watch the various documentaries on his career, we not only got a glimpse into the rap/hip hop side of this icon, but we also got to see his spiritual side. His prayers could be seen and heard at his live concerts as well as on his records. However, what most people didn’t know is that he recorded a gospel album back in the late 2000’s that was never released. The project was a double album titled “Walk With Me Now and You’ll Fly with Me Later”. This was said to have been recorded while he was living in Arizona and wanted to focus on a more spiritual direction, instead of the gritty street life. Unfortunately, as of this day, it was never released; however some of the tracks against his wishes are restricted and remain on hard drives, according to sources. In addition, sources also say, DMX wanted to do a gospel tour at Mega Churches in the Southern region, and eventually start a church of his own, “House Of The Afflicted” where his mission and ministry focus would be to the homeless and those who struggle with drug addiction. With no actual
“will” left behind, there leaves much to funnel through legally regarding the rights to the project, the fate of the future of the release remains unknown at this time. Follow Ericka on twitter, www.twitter.com @MissEricka J, facebook www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson, or via email iammisserickaj@gmail.com
Jonathan Nelson
Steve Harvey
Damon Little
Bishop Desmond Tu Tu
DMX Grace&Glory 35 35 Grace&Glory
www.gracenglorymagazine.org
36 January 2022
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