Grace & Glory July 2017

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scripture page

(NIV) 1

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

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I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

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Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.

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He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

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You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,

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nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.

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A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.

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You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.

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If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,

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no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.

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For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;

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they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

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You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

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“Because he[b] loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

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He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.

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With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

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July 2017

™

contents on the cover: Pastor Marshall L. Barnes The Grace Memorial Baptist Church 1100 N. Eden Street Baltimore, MD 21213 410-563-2355 www.gracememorialbaptist.org

Special Feature pgs 8-12 - The Grace Memorial Baptist Church is celebrating its 90th Church Anniversary in the month of July.

Their mantra is “The Church That Cares” and they have been committed to fulfilling this mantra by serving their community for 90 years.

Feature Articles 20 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Tiffany Bethea

Summer Recharge

26 NUTRITION & YOU

Herline A. Knights, RD, LD

5 Simple Rules For Healthful Eating

4 July 2017 | Grace&Glory

34 MAN TALK

22 SINGLE LIFE

Tyneice Pack

Dr. Charles Barrett

Are You Tied To Your Past Relationships?

The Proper Perspective On Going Through

Healthy Body

28 BOBY BASICS

WebMD.com

10 Relaxation Techniques That Zap Stress Fast

Healthy Mind 18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)

Do Your Best

In Every Issue Scripture Page ....................................... 2 Contributors............................................ 6

Entertainment

From the Editor....................................... 7

32 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS Ericka Johnson

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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 PUBLISHER/ Jackie Epps EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITORIAL

Herline A. Knights Dr. Carla J. Debnam

Donna Royalty Ross Ericka Johnson Rev. Tim Tooten Brandie Manigault Tiffany Bethea Dr. Charles Barrett

Tyniece Pack

GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period

www.artsperiod.com

PRINTING Roebuck & Son Printing www.hgroebuck.com Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher.

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.

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Advisory Board Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Bishop Frank M. Reid, Jr. AME Church Dr. Michael A. Battle Sr., U.S. Ambassador President, ITC Seminary, Atlanta, GA Dr. Timothy Boddie Friendship Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA Bishop John R. Bryant Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn/Media Executive Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Healing Voices Ministries Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Dream Life Worship Center Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD

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from the editor

On Friday, June 23, Pastor Sandy Johnson, our earthly angel, left this earthly life to live with Jesus in eternity. To say this knocked me and our entire community off its feet is an understatement, however we bow in humble submission to the will of God and His infinite wisdom.

So this month I dedicate my column in memory of Pastor Sandy Johnson, a phenomenal woman of God. There have been many words used to describe her, compassionate, considerate, lovable, loving, unique, special, fabulous (with her picture perfect Afro), and full of wisdom, to name a few, and all of them true.

Pastor Sandy Johnson was a frequent guest on the Grace & Glory program with her daughter Ericka and whenever she would come to the WMAR studios she always had a special word for me. She would hug me and then look me straight into my eyes and she would just know. She had a special way of not just talking to you but speaking into your very being, and I will always remember that special anointing that was on her and her alone.

Pastor Sandy Johnson’s daughter, Ericka, is one of Grace & Glory Magazine’s regular contributors (Gospel Industry News); and we the Grace & Glory Family mourn with her and we join together praying and asking God to comfort Ericka’s heart during this difficult time and give her what she will need in the days ahead.

“Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.”

Ericka Johnson, Jackie Epps and Pastor Sandy Johnson

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Q&A

INTERVIEW WITH

Rev. Marshall L. Barnes

The Grace Memorial Baptist Church Baltimore, MD G&G: Rev. Barnes, welcome to Grace & Glory Magazine, it is my pleasure to introduce you to our Grace & Glory family. This month we are so excited to celebrate with you the 90th Church Anniversary of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. Rev. Barnes you became the pastor of this church just about two years ago, how does it feel to now be a part of the history of this ninety year old church?

Rev. Barnes: It is a humbling experience to stand on the shoulders of the pastors who came before me.

The pastors of this church were considered giants by their contemporaries. Most of the time, God does not call the most qualified, but qualifies those whom He calls. History is important because it allows us to reflect on how far God has brought us. History establishes standards and expectations for those who are called by God to lead. Every leader has an individual vision and understanding of ministry, with the spiritual understanding that it must be rooted in God and has a vertical connection to the power of God. This congregation’s ninety-year history of glorifying God, baptizing, and making disciples for Christ could encourage me to rest in the past instead of pressing toward the future. I also strive to have my mind on the future and to live fully in the present, remaining constantly aware what a blessing it is to serve this amazing faith community, looking back to the past while also having my mind on the future.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, let’s start at the beginning of this journey for you. Would you walk us through the journey that led you to The Grace Memorial Baptist Church?

Rev. Barnes: I had known Pastor Irvin Pope for many years and visited The Grace Memorial Baptist Church 8 July 2017 | Grace&Glory

many times throughout his pastorate. After finishing seminary, I was led by God to join the church. My journey at The Grace Memorial Baptist Church has changed my life. I was seeking a place to exercise my purpose and calling and God opened the doors of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. I have the credentials to pastor any Protestant congregation, but God established His purpose and His plan and planted me at The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. My father in the ministry, the late Rev. Dr. Irvin Pope, walked up to me one Sunday morning at Grace and said you are preaching here this month on the 3rd Sunday. I have been blessed to preach and teach in many different venues. But, preaching at Grace that 3rd Sunday was different from any other Sunday. I preached, “Don’t Limit The Lord”, and the message was for me.

I had planned to be an associate minister at another church, which was located on the other side of town.

During the preached “Word”, God confirmed that this is the place and this is the time in my life when his purpose and plan for me would come to fruition. After that Sunday, I preached twice a month and soon thereafter, I was voted unanimously to the position of Assistant Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. This is where I so humbly serve now as pastor.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, to get to know you a little better, what three words would you choose to describe yourself and would you share with us one thing most people would be surprised to know about you?

Rev. Barnes: The three words that best describe me are dedicated, committed, and determined! I have dedicated my life to a life of service. I wholeheartedly believe that the service we give is the rent we owe for the space that we occupy on earth. Service to others has always been something that moved me to do good. In the Gospel, Jesus

Q&A says go and do likewise. I am dedicated to the go part of this delayed the calling on my life just as so many others have done instruction; I seek to go beyond the church’s walls where the throughout biblical history. My view of what God had planned hurting and the helpless live. Once we go, then we have to do for me was too small. I wanted to touch young minds, but God whatever is needed for whoever needs it. To do likewise is to wanted me to touch the world. The call to preach touches model what Jesus did and taught. the world by not just touching a few in a particular place or I am committed to preaching a gospel that makes a difference. particular age, but all who are willing to listen. The greatest The gospel changes lives. The gospel shines a light into dark privilege that one could have is to carry the gospel to the ends places. We live in an age when darkness is all around. We of the earth. experience darkness morally, financially, vocationally, and Saint John Chrysostom best describes my calling to preach spiritually. Preaching has a light in it and that light is the light the Gospel, “Preaching improves me. When I begin to speak, of God. It is the light of God that illuminates the hearts and the weariness disappears; when I begin to teach, fatigue too minds of His children. Commitment to preaching disappears.” Preaching makes me the gospel is connected to service. better. Preaching makes the world The greatest gift that I can leave behind is a life better, and preaching makes people of commitment. Making a lifelong commitment better. Preaching gives me the energy to service in ministry is my ultimate goal. By and the will to do what must be done my serving others, many will come to accept for the Kingdom of God. I get tired Christ as their Lord and personal savior. The on the journey, but never tired of the commitment to serve is so important in ministry journey. I not only preach with words, that service should be one of the sacraments of but I preach with my life. My life the church. preached sermons long before God I am determined to give Christ all that I allowed my mouth to preach. have. Although struggles are inevitable, I am determined not to let situations, calamities, and G&G: Rev. Barnes, after becoming misfortunes redirect my path. I am determined the pastor and following behind five to remember that God is the potter and I am the other pastors before you, what has clay. Being able to stay on the potter’s wheel is been your passion and vision for The vital; this is where character is developed and Grace Memorial Baptist Church? where ministry is born.

Rev. Barnes: My passion is for the Rev. Marshall L. Barnes preaching Most people would be surprised to know preached word. There is something that I am working on my aviation license. I about the transforming power of have always had a love for flying. Flying is very therapeutic for preaching that words cannot explain. Preaching transforms me. When soaring through the air, I feel the oneness of God and lives, preaching gives light to darkness, preaching gives the magnitude of God’s world. The existence of God cannot be hope to the hopeless, preaching gives help to the helpless, questioned when earth is viewed from another vantage point. and preaching gives life to death. We were all born dead and it is through preaching that we are brought to life.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, most pastors have shared with me that My vision for The Grace Memorial Baptist Church is ‘preaching the gospel’ was not what they had planned to do with for this congregation to be a “Bible Preaching, Bible their lives. Was it the same for you, did you have other plans for Believing, Bible Teaching, and Bible Practicing” your life or has it always been your desire to preach the gospel? church. The preaching of the sacred text is Rev. Barnes: Preaching the gospel was not what I had planned constantly refining the vision that God has given to do with my life. I had planned to be a college president me. working with young minds and preparing them for the future. I believed the more young people I could touch, the greater the G&G: Rev. Barnes, have there been any impact I could make in the world. God had a different purpose challenging areas in connecting with a welland plan for my life. established ministry with 90 years of history?

I have known since the age of twelve that I was called to be a Did you face any opposition for your vision carrier of the Word, an oracle of God. Even though I knew the for The Grace Memorial Baptist Church? calling that was on my life, I had no intentions of preaching. I Continued on page 10

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Q&A Continued from page 9

Rev. Barnes: There are challenges in every ministry.

God did not promise that there would not be challenges.

God promised that He would be there in those times of challenge, and He has been true and faithful to His word. Where God guides He governs, and where He governs He provides. I am thankful and grateful for all that He has done. Even when I cannot see God’s hand, I can trust God’s heart.

I am not one to focus on the opposition. I focus on God’s provisions. When you are walking where God leads, He will provide all of your needs. The vision that God has given me for this church is going forth. I stay focused on the vision with “High Standards” and “High Expectations” for the Glory of God. I love people too much to lower the standards, and care too much to change the expectations of God’s work.

church on just about every corner, what do you believe sets this church apart from other churches in the Greater Baltimore community?

Rev. Barnes: Our ministry can be described as, “The Church That Cares.” That is our mantra, but our manta is more than words. Our mantra is what we do. People cannot hear about how much you care. They must be able to feel how much you care, and that is what makes The Grace Memorial Baptist Church different. We preach the same gospel, and we tell the same stories, as other believers of the faith, but after we tell about what God has done and can do, we show what God can do in the present and in the future. That makes us different because we don’t just talk about the grandeur of God; we show the grandeur of God.

G&G: What would you say to that person who perhaps is looking for a church home that would motivate them to Church Membership come and unite with The Grace G&G: Rev. Barnes, what Memorial Baptist Church? have been the most rewarding accomplishments in the What would you say to that hard to reach group, the ministry since you took over as pastor of the church? youth and young adults (the millennials)?

Rev. Barnes: One of the most rewarding Rev. Barnes: My message to the millennials is when accomplishments in ministry is to see lives that have your options run out, try God because God has options been changed through the preached word. To see that you don’t have. Millennials are very interested hope put into the lives of those who would be labeled in what their options are. They want choices in how marginal is rewarding. Those who are on the margins to connect with a church. In the age of social media, of society can find refuge, renewal, and rejuvenation the use of technology within the church is a great through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What a blessing it resource, but the church is still obligated to meet the is to see people restored back into society. When society spiritual needs of the millennials. As powerful as social says no, the church says yes you can through Christ. media and technology are, they cannot replace having We have a diverse congregation. Many members of a personal relationship with God. The method can our community are aging. They have a purpose and change, but the message remains the same. reason to be active in ministry. I call them “Precious We meet youth and young adults where they are on Gems.” They are jewels, more special then diamonds their spiritual journey. We welcome them where they and more valuable then gold. We are blended and are on life’s journey, but we don’t leave them where they blessed by integrating seniors with youths, Caucasians are. Youth and young adults feel that the church is not with African-Americans, the rich with the poor, and relevant and that their needs are not being addressed. saints with sinners. How rewarding it is to be a blended Here at The Grace Memorial Baptist Church we want congregation who share a common goal; I am blessed young people to know that we hear their call and we to be leading such wonderful people. feel their pain.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, how would you best describe the ministry of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church? With a 10 July July 2017 2017 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 10

G&G: Rev. Barnes, The Grace Memorial Baptist Church sits in the heart of the inner city, predominately

Q&A a Black community, what is the church’s relationship to its surrounding community? What are some of the unmet needs in the community that the church is addressing?

Rev. Barnes: Within this community there is a plethora of problems—lack of resources, unemployment, high murder rate, failing schools, and dilapidated housing, just to name a few.

We seek to provide practical help in these areas. For example, we are blessed to have a weekly soup kitchen where we feed everybody who comes through the door. We call everybody who comes to the soup kitchen our special guest. We feed them and provide clothes on a weekly basis.

There are several low achieving schools in the community, and we address this problem by providing a book for every child with the “Bring A Book Take A Book” program. We strive to not only have a consecrated heart, but an educated head.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, historically the Black church had strong community ties and provided spiritual and political leadership, especially during the civil rights movement; the church was the foundation of the Black community. Do you believe the church still has a voice in the community? Do you see God at work in this community?

Rev. Barnes: The church is one of the few voices in the AfricanAmerican community speaking to the needs of those who are politically cut off. Can the church do more? Absolutely!

The problems of the 21st century in the African-American community are multifaceted. In times like these, God’s voice is the only stability that is found. There are many issues within the community where the church is the only voice being heard. We must always remember that Jesus was shut in with the shutouts.

The voice of reason and the responsibility for the least of these are being vocalized by the church. The church has been used as a political base for those who have no voice. It is through the church that God speaks to issues that affect the community at large.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, I must ask you with all that is going on in the world today, what do you believe the ‘church’ should be saying and doing right now?

Rev. Barnes: The church has always been part of the struggle.

The church now more so than ever before must remind the world that, “the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof; the world and they that dwell therein.” Those who are in charge are only in charge for the season. Those who govern are only here for a season. God is from everlasting to everlasting. The church has navigated these waters before. The church must speak life to dead situations. One of the profound themes through the Bible is that “it came to pass”. What the world is going through in this present age and at this moment did not come to stay, but

will pass. What is important is who is in your heart and who is in your house that makes the difference. If God is in your heart and in your house you will not lose focus and hope. We must not lose hope and focus because if you lose hope and focus, then tomorrow does not matter. What is happening in the world is not good, but in the end it works for our good.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, considering the legacy of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church, what are your hopes and plans for the future of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church? Describe The Grace Memorial Baptist Church say . . . five years from now?

Rev. Barnes: The legacy of the church is rich and our foundation is firm. I see our church as being a multicultural church that mirrors all shapes and cultures of our society. We don’t preach a Black gospel, but a gospel for all people. Here, the judge and the ditch digger are sitting side-by-side reading from the same Bible and singing the same hymn. Old people and young people both experience God’s everlasting love. Rich people and poor people, Caucasians and African-Americans come to understand that the foot of the cross is level. This is the future church that I see.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, lastly would you share with us what you have planned to celebrate this monumental occasion, the 90th Church Anniversary of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church, a significant milestone in ministry?

Rev. Barnes: We have several activities leading up to the 90th anniversary of the church. We have services throughout the month of July. On Wednesday, July 5, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. we are hosting with Faith Baptist Church and Pastor Greggory Maddox will be preaching. On Wednesday, July 12, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. we are hosting the 1st Baptist Church and Pastor Craig Harcum will be preaching. On July 19, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. we are hosting Greater Harvest Baptist Church and Pastor Brent Brown will be preaching. The Anniversary Banquet, which is a Black Tie Affair, will be held on Friday, July 21, 2017, at 6:00 p.m. at Martin’s Valley Mansion and the guest preacher is the Rev. Dr. Barry Black, Untied States Senate Chaplain. The anniversary celebration will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. and the guest preacher is Bishop John R. Bryant, the retired Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. What a GREAT month of celebration this will be.

G&G: Rev. Barnes, it is our prayer that God will continue to richly bless this ministry that has been a ‘Beacon of Light’ in its community for 90 years. To God be the Glory! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11 11 www.gracenglorymagazine.org

church history

The Grace Memorial Baptist Church H

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1100 North Eden Street Baltimore, Maryland 21213 The birth of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church occurred in 1926, and was incorporated in 1927. History says this branch of Zion started with the first Pastor, The Reverend Albert J. Greene, and a few faithful members worshipping God at each others homes. A few of these members were: Sister Martha Baker, The Turner Family, The Yarborough Family, Sister Pearl Young, Sister Mattie Cloud, Brother David Thomas, Brother Rob Thompson, Sister Viola Peacock, Sister Ann Sadie Shannon, The Frank Wilson Family, The Veney Family, Sister Cecelia Crawford, The Grove Family, The Goldie and Floyd Neal Family, and others.

Out of this humble and determined beginning, the direction for The Grace Memorial Baptist Church became clear. Its direction is bringing souls to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ through preaching, teaching, witnessing and making true disciples for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Grace Memorial Baptist Church is a beacon light in the community and strives to win souls to Christ and to spiritually nurture and feed its people.

The Reverend Albert J. Greene, the first Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church served faithfully for sixteen years. History says, Pastor Greene established the Church name for the free given Grace of God. He preached, taught and encouraged the members to move forward in their Christian journey until the Lord called him home on December 15, 1943.

The Reverend Eugene T. Grove, a son of the Church became the second Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. Reverend Grove had a great Outreach Ministry, which included Street Evangelism, a Scholarship Fund, and a Radio Broadcast. After serving as Pastor for fourteen years from 1944 to 1958, Reverend Grove departed The Grace Memorial Baptist Church becoming the Founder and Pastor of the New Frontier of Faith Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

In 1959, The Reverend Joseph Brown was called as the third Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. His ministry included a radio and television program called The Grace Memorial Hour and a prison ministry. While serving as a Prison Chaplain, Reverend Brown served as Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church until 1968. After terminating his stewardship with The Grace Memorial Baptist Church, Reverend Brown became the Founder and Pastor of the Manna Bible Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

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On August 7, 1968, the Church Family called The Reverend Alfred C. D. Vaughn, former Pastor of The Promise Land Baptist Church, Moneta, Virginia, as the fourth Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. Under the stewardship of Reverend Vaughn, The Grace Memorial Baptist Church became a great voice in the City of Baltimore, across the country and around the world.

Also, history says, during Reverend Vaughn's tenure as Pastor, the membership increased, the Church Office was remodeled, and the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall repainted. After eighteen years as the Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church, Reverend Vaughn resigned and accepted the Call to Pastor his home Church, the Sharon Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

On September 27, 1987, The Reverend Irvin Pope, son of the First Mount Calvary Baptist Church was unanimously called as the fifth Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church. Under the stewardship of Pastor Pope, there are numerous accomplishments. Some of these accomplishments include: increased membership; weekly Bible studies via the Journey through the Bible Series; a Soup Kitchen, feeding approximately 60 homeless people weekly, along with clothing give-a-way; a Computer Laboratory; a revision of the Church’s Constitution and By-Laws; the establishment, development and implementation of a Policies and Procedures Manual; the changing of Boards to Ministries; mandatory training for all Ministries; the development of the position of Church Treasurer; the Sheepfold Ministry; the Golden Disciples Ministry; the Christian Education Ministry; the Men’s Ministry; the Women’s Ministry; Liturgical Dance Ministry; Adult Aerobics Classes; Black History Recognitions and Honors among members of the congregation; renovation of the Church Sanctuary with chandeliers; total remodeling of the Fellowship Hall with new tables and chairs; the installation of new sanctuary glass entrance doors; the construction of a handicap entrance ramp; a new church roof; a new modern outside Marquee; a new kitchen; a new Church Van; a new and improved boiler heating system; replaced the pipeline infrastructure of the Church, and in honor of the 85th Church Anniversary and the 25th Pastoral Anniversary of The Reverend Irvin Pope, a Ceremonial Street Sign was erected to denote the year 2012 as “The Year of Celebration”, to name a few. On September 28, 2015, Rev. Pope retired as the Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church and became Pastor Emeritus.

On September 29, 2015, Reverend Marshall Lee Barnes, Assistant Pastor of the church became the sixth Pastor of The Grace Memorial Baptist Church.

Reverend Marshall Lee Barnes is a native of Baltimore, Maryland. He is the son of Evelyn Short. Reverend Barnes’ personal life, and ministry philosophy has been shaped by his grandmother, Littie J. Wallace. He gives thanks to God for having spiritual mentors who showed him by their living what the gospel of Jesus Christ means. He received a clear call to ministry at a very early age. His earliest childhood memories are of a fervent desire to become a carrier of the Word.

For 89 years, The Grace Memorial Baptist Church has had five dynamic Pastors with diversified gifts. Each Pastor has contributed to the growth and existence of this Spiritual Organism, from its first Church Home at the Star Theatre Auditorium on Monument Street to its present location, 1100 North Eden Street. The Grace Memorial Baptist Church is determined to continue the establishment of a fellowship in Jesus Christ that promotes the spread of the Gospel through scriptural, spiritual and secular experiences. These experiences, in conjunction with Service and Teaching Ministries will enable each member to acquire and develop knowledge, skills, and abilities that are essential to one’s perseverance as a Christian individual.

"The Church That Cares"

Church Founders

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UNITY:

Are You Ready To Answer the Call?

We live in a society where the strength of the church is diminished or weakened by individual personal gain. It’s a Me, myself and I mentality. The church is at HER best when the people of God come together as one body in Christ for the sole purpose of the Kingdom Agenda.

Our society today eliminates the need to have long lasting relationships. Although, in God’s Kingdom His citizenship differs because the Bible tells us that one citizen has dominion over a thousand but two together gives authority over 10k! God multiplies our talents when we come together on one accord; and that places FEAR in the enemy’s camp. Satan’s political move in God’s physical house is to DIVIDE and to Conquer.

1. Satan doesn’t want the people of God to operate in oneness.

2. Satan doesn’t want the Body of Christ to agree.

3. Satan doesn’t want togetherness in the same place.

2017! Let’s Start Being REAL WITH GOD and ourselves!

Beloved you will find that today will BEGIN to be the BEST DAYS of your LIFE WHEN YOU SAY YES TO GOD!

Evangelist LaRondi Nicole Flowers 1ST NEW LIFE BAPTIST CHURCH 3215 W. Belvedere Ave. Baltimore, MD 21215 Rev. Washington M. Flowers, Pastor & Founder UMUSTBREAL@GMAIL.COM “A Small Family Environment Where We Say Yes To God!” (Worship begins at 11:00 am in the lower level of Brown’s Memorial Baptist Church-Denmore Avenue Entrance) 16 16 July July2017 2017| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory

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to your good health

We often hear of persons who want a lot out of life but don’t have the drive or tenacity to see their goals come to pass. They either did not count the cost of their dream or gave up too soon to see their dream come true. There has to be a motivating factor to continue working toward something greater than what we currently have. Each of us has to identify our ‘it’ and begin to work to bring it to life. Bringing our dream to reality can be time consuming and stressful but the results will be worth it.

Sometimes the cares of life and the desires of our hearts can sidetrack us where we stop doing what interests us or what we believe God is calling us to do. We must remember that no matter what we do we have to “work as unto the Lord” and do our best. Life is too short to spend time doing everything but what God has placed on hearts. We must reprioritize our lives to reflect the mission of Jesus and not only focus on goals and activities that will lift us up. There is a time and place for everything and now is the time to do God’s will. In 18 18 July July 2017 2017 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory

order to fulfill our heart’s desires we must seek and follow God’s plan.

Staying the course is what it will take to put in the work until the final project; thesis paper, dissertation, job training or other assignment is completed. There will be times when we will want to quit but fighting past the rough seasons will produce the character and resilience necessary for success. In the long run it is important to do our best because then we can reap the benefits of good success. This kind of success comes with the satisfaction of knowing that you put in your best work and will reap the benefits of your labor. Doing your best is gratifying and rewarding. No one or no issue can minimize your effort or passion. We must continue to do our best because there is no such thing as being too excellent. Excellence Dr. Carla Debnam, matters so continue to work Founder, to the glory of God. Renaissance Christian Counseling Center

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woman’s perspective

Hey my sisters! Just that fast we are approaching the summer months and moving towards the middle of 2017. Wasn’t that fast?

I feel as though we just celebrated New Year’s and now we are getting ready for our summer vacations and planning to escape to the beach. Before you go hop into your swim gear I want to deposit a nugget into your spirit. As a coach, I know that this is the point of the year where we tend to be the furthest from achieving our goals that we set for ourselves. Yes, my sister, it is time for a check-in. It’s time for the Summer Recharge!

sets the solitary in families….” Psalm 68:6. Many times if we can be honest we simply need to drop our pride, open up and be vulnerable enough with someone who will hold us to truly finishing our goals. I know personally, I had no idea when my first book would have actually come out if I hadn’t had a true friend to keep pushing me and finally give me a deadline for my book release. Who is in your corner cheering you on, being honest with you and holding you to what you said you wanted to accomplish?

There is something about the beginning of the year that has us naturally excited, motivated, inspired and ready to take action. We picture with eager anticipation all the great things that the year has in store and that anticipation has our faith fueled and we are charged up. However, as the realities of life continue to meet us day after day, it becomes easier to lose that charge and become less excited, motivated, and inspired and we lose the readiness to take action. When I encounter people in January they are excited with their brand-new vision boards, new work out plans, new books they are reading and all the “newness”. However, when you talk to those same people around this time of year the vision board is tucked away, the work out plan has ended, the book was never finished and the newness was replaced with the daily monotony of life.

SYSTEM- For many of us we have great goals and dreams and plans but we don’t have a true system for how it will fit into the pre-existing circumstances of our lives. We want to go back to school but have we planned how that will work with our full-time jobs, cooking dinner for the family and our ministry responsibilities? It is do-able. I think we all know someone who has defied the odds and achieved; however, it does take an incredibly strong system. Maybe it will account for you doing meal planning once a week. Maybe it will account for you listening to audio books while you drive. Maybe it will mean less television time for a season. Having goals and dreams are great, but we must build systems into our lives that support and aid the completion of those goals.

It truly takes the power of the Holy Spirit working in us to keep us focused on what God desires to accomplish in our lives.

“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” Hebrews 12:2. My sister we must make a conscious effort to keep our eyes on Jesus through the daily routines and responsibilities so that his assignment and plan for our lives don’t get lost. It is indeed a press, but a press that is so incredibly worth it. Here are a couple of things that will help you stay charged up through the rest of the year and supersede the goals you’ve set for yourself.

ACCOUNTABILITY- No true growth happens absent accountability. God did not intend for us to be islands. “God 20 July 2017 | Grace&Glory

You can do it! I am cheering for you! I believe in you!

Everything God has for you is for you, BUT you must show up to get it. This is the time to recharge your spirit, get focused, get excited, get re-motivated and go for the goal. What has God set out for you to accomplish in 2017? Don’t lose sight of it in the common mid-year slump. Instead allow the Holy Spirit to continue to keep you pressing toward the mark. He who has begun a good work in you will continue to Tiffany Bethea perform it but He needs your She-EO Life Mentor cooperation. www.Tiffanybethea.com

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single life

We are triune beings made up of a soul, a spirit, and a body. Our souls are the seat of our will, emotions, and intellect. Before we are married our soul should be connected to the Spirit of God. That means our will, emotions and intellect should be guided by the spirit of God. We do need people to meet our needs for companionship, comfort and love but we should not look at them as our source of love. On the journey to finding a mate or being found we create ties with other spirits. The ties that we create are called soul-ties. Soulties can be either healthy or unhealthy. The most commonly known soul-tie is one that is created from a sexual relationship. Another type of soul-tie is an emotional soul-tie. An emotional soul-tie can be just as unhealthy as a sexual soul-tie. It can be summed up as a connection between you and someone else which is dependent on your feelings for them emotionally rather than physically. It is the ability to be vulnerable and trusting your mate with your heart.

Emotional soul-ties can be created when a person: 1. Reveals their inner thoughts, feelings and desires.

2. Shares their hopes, dreams, goals and disappointments with each other.

3. Supports and prays for each other.

It is unhealthy to enter a new relationship without breaking the ties that bind you to the old relationship. So many people are walking around still tied to their last relationship. Some people are even still tied to multiple relationships. If we could see a person’s spirit the way we can see them physically we would be able to see the number of relationships that they are still tied to. Imagine seeing someone who was wearing all of the clothes that they wore the week before.

Everyone would stop and stare at them because they would look very strange wearing 8 shirts and 8 pairs of pants. It is not normal to see people walk around with the last 7 dirty sets of clothes underneath of a clean shirt and a pair of pants. It is important that you identify if you have an emotional soul-tie.

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Some common symptoms of an unhealthysoul tie: • Your mood shifts based on their presence or absence.

• They are constantly on your mind.

• You stalk them on social media.

• You are willing to do ANYTHING to make the relationship work.

If you have an emotional soul-tie it will have to be broken in order for you to be free from your past. If the tie is not broken you will continue to repeat the same cycle.

Some spiritual steps to help break a soul-tie: 1. Acknowledge you have a soul tie.

2. Confess it to the Lord and repent.

3. Renounce the relationship with that person.

4. Come out of agreement with anything you did with that person.

5. Make a declaration to walk forward with God. Forgiveness is very important in breaking an emotional soul-tie. Holding onto a grudge will keep you tied to them. Forgive them from your heart and let it go. If you don’t forgive them you will not be able to break the power they have over your life. Once the tie is broken you should experience inner peace and be able to move on with your life.

Tyniece Pack

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nutrition & you

5

Simple Rules for Healthful Eating Diet advice is everywhere—on the Internet, in our favorite magazines, and passed on by word of mouth.

Sometimes it is just overwhelming. To make it easier, here are five foolproof guidelines to help you get a running start to eat more healthfully.

1. If you cannot pronounce the ingredients, pass it up.

Many people diligently look at the front of the package or the nutrition label before purchasing any food, but fail to look at the ingredient list. Many of the foods that look healthful at first glance contain ingredients that you cannot pronounce—which may mean that the item is not nearly as good for us as the manufacturer would like us to believe.

2. Apple pie is not a fruit.

It is easy to play games with yourself when you are trying to watch the way that you eat. Sure, some broccoli possibly is buried under that cheese sauce or that drink may contain some fruit juice, but if you are honest with yourself, you know better. How your food is prepared is often as important as what type of food it is.

3. Eating all your pasta is not going to save any starving children.

Membership in the “clean plate club” does not offer any benefits. Stop eating when you are full. Have your 26 July 2017 | Grace&Glory

leftovers boxed up, or put them away for tomorrow’s lunch. Listen to your body.

4. A moderate diet is a healthy diet.

Plato wrote this in The Republic in 360 BC, “A moderate diet is a healthful diet.” He continued, “And with such a diet they may be expected to live in peace and health to a good old age, and bequeath a similar life to their children after them.” This is sound advice today. Eat what you like from every food group, and do not overdo any one food or food group, or completely neglect another.

5. Choose whole foods.

Select whole fresh foods, not fresh fruit that is squished into a “100% real fruit” fruit snack or a vegetable that is dehydrated, salted, and baked into a cracker. No, we are talking about the kind of whole foods that grow out of the ground and on trees. If you choose these foods more often and their processed counterparts less often, you have already won half the battle.

References and Recommended Readings: The best diet: quality counts. Harvard School of Public Health website. http:// www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/ best-diet-quality-counts/. Accessed September 10, 2015.

Herline A. Knights, RDN, LD

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body basics

By Jeannette Moninger (www.webmd.com) Relax. You deserve it, it's good for you, and it takes less time than you think.

You don't need a spa weekend or a retreat. Each of these stressrelieving tips can get you from OMG to om in less than 15 minutes.

1. Meditate A few minutes of practice per day can help ease anxiety. “Research suggests that daily meditation may alter the brain’s neural pathways, making you more resilient to stress,” says psychologist Robbie Maller Hartman, PhD, a Chicago health and wellness coach.

It's simple. Sit up straight with both feet on the floor. Close your eyes. Focus your attention on reciting -- out loud or silently -- a positive mantra such as “I feel at peace” or “I love myself.” Place one hand on your belly to sync the mantra with your breaths. Let any distracting thoughts float by like clouds.

2. Breathe Deeply Take a 5-minute break and focus on your breathing. Sit up straight, eyes closed, with a hand on your belly. Slowly inhale through your nose, feeling the breath start in your abdomen and work its way to the top of your head. Reverse the process as you exhale through your mouth.

“Deep breathing counters the effects of stress by slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure,” says psychologist Judith Tutin, PhD, a certified life coach in Rome, GA. 3. Be Present Slow down.

“Take 5 minutes and focus on only one behavior with awareness,” Tutin says. Notice how the air feels on your face when you’re walking and how your feet feel hitting the ground. Enjoy the texture and taste of each bite of food.

When you spend time in the moment and focus on your senses, you should feel less tense.

4. Reach Out Your social network is one of your best tools for handling stress.

Talk to others -- preferably face to face, or at least on the phone. Share what's going on. You can get a fresh perspective while keeping your connection strong.

5. Tune In to Your Body Mentally scan your body to get a sense of how stress affects it each day. Lie on your back, or sit with your feet on the floor. Start at your toes and work your way up to your scalp, noticing how your body feels. “Simply be aware of places you feel tight or loose without trying to change anything,” Tutin says. For 1 to 2 minutes, imagine each deep breath flowing to that body part. Repeat this process as you move your focus up your body, paying close attention to sensations you feel in 28 July 2017 | Grace&Glory

each body part.

6. Decompress Place a warm heat wrap around your neck and shoulders for 10 minutes. Close your eyes and relax your face, neck, upper chest, and back muscles. Remove the wrap, and use a tennis ball or foam roller to massage away tension.

“Place the ball between your back and the wall. Lean into the ball, and hold gentle pressure for up to 15 seconds. Then move the ball to another spot, and apply pressure,” says Cathy Benninger, a nurse practitioner and assistant professor at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus.

7. Laugh Out Loud A good belly laugh doesn’t just lighten the load mentally. It lowers cortisol, your body’s stress hormone, and boosts brain chemicals called endorphins, which help your mood. Lighten up by tuning in to your favorite sitcom or video, reading the comics, or chatting with someone who makes you smile.

8. Crank Up the Tunes Research shows that listening to soothing music can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety. “Create a playlist of songs or nature sounds (the ocean, a bubbling brook, birds chirping), and allow your mind to focus on the different melodies, instruments, or singers in the piece,” Benninger says. You also can blow off steam by rocking out to more upbeat tunes -- or singing at the top of your lungs!

9. Get Moving You don’t have to run in order to get a runner’s high. All forms of exercise, including yoga and walking, can ease depression and anxiety by helping the brain release feel-good chemicals and by giving your body a chance to practice dealing with stress. You can go for a quick walk around the block, take the stairs up and down a few flights, or do some stretching exercises like head rolls and shoulder shrugs.

10. Be Grateful Keep a gratitude journal or several (one by your bed, one in your purse, and one at work) to help you remember all the things that are good in your life.

“Being grateful for your blessings cancels out negative thoughts and worries,” says Joni Emmerling, a wellness coach in Greenville, NC. Use these journals to savor good experiences like a child’s smile, a sunshine-filled day, and good health. Don’t forget to celebrate accomplishments like mastering a new task at work or a new hobby.

When you start feeling stressed, spend a few minutes looking through your notes to remind yourself what really matters.

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gospel industry news

Gospel Industry Ricky Dillard

News

By Ericka J.

Ricky Dillard & New G have released the first single from their new project titled "I Survived It" written

by Jason Clayborn. I was in attendance at the live recording back in January (MLK's Birthday), this hands down was one of my favorite songs of the night. If you have not downloaded it yet, do yourself a favor "SURVIVOR" and go get it, it will bless you!

Anthony Brown Baltimore's Own Anthony Brown & Group Therapy are geared and ready for the release of their new project titled "A Long Way From Sunday", his multi-award winning last project broke all kinds of records, so this is highly anticipated! SAVE THE DATE, July 28, it will be available EVERYWHERE! Special guest features include, Jonathan McReynolds, Travis Greene, & Leandria Johnson. The official CD release concert "A Long Way From Sunday" THE LIVE EXPERIENCE, will be Friday, July 28 at the Warner Theater in Washington, DC at 8pm, for more information follow any of Anthony Brown's social media @ajblive as well as Ticketmaster.

BET Celebration Of Gospel The BET Celebration of Gospel is happening in Atlanta, GA on August 8 at the Cobb Energy Arts Center. This will be the very first time the show is being done "LIVE", this year will feature performances by Donnie McClurkin, JJ Hairston, Ricky Dillard, Travis Greene, Jonathan McReynolds, Jekalyn Carr, Tina Campbell, Deitrick Haddon, and others. Be sure to tune in, check your local listings, I'm excited that it’s going to be LIVE!

Marvin Sapp

Hezekiah is returning to Baltimore for the second year, with his National Holy convocation, August 16-17, 2017, at the Hilton downtown Baltimore.

Many great speakers are on the line up, Dr. Jamal Bryant, Bishop J. Drew Sheard, Pastor Tommy Bates, Dr. Jasmine Sculark, and Dr. Bill Winston. In addition, "word on the street” is there may be a Love Fellowship Crusade Choir Reunion Concert to close out the convocation, I will absolutely keep you posted on that! For more info www.pcjconline.org.

Marvin Sapp has a new single titled "Close" which is also the title of the project, and it's produced by the great Aaron Lindsey and Soloman Edwards. The full project will be released September 29th, it's his 11th project to date, and it's his first release being reintroduced to Verity & RCA. 32 July March 2014 | Grace&Glory 32 July 2017 Grace&Glory 32 2017 || Grace&Glory

Bishop Hezekiah Walker

Ted Winn

Ted has a new single available right now titled "Stand In Awe", it’s the lead single from his upcoming project slated to be released in September 1, 2017.

gospel industry news

VaShawn Mitchell Congrats to VaShawn on his single "Joy" spending 8 consecutive weeks at #1 on Billboard charts, and the full project "Secret Place: Live in South Africa” has been in the Top 5 on Billboard for 23 weeks and counting. VaShawn just keeps lacing us with great hits and shows no signs of stopping or slowing down! Gotta love it!

Earnest Pugh Earnest Pugh was noticeably missing at the Annual Hampton Minister’s Conference in Hampton, VA last month; he was not there due illness from food poisoning and dehydration after returning from international travel. He is currently resting and undergoing treatment and will be back to singing and serving in ministry soon.

Kenny Taylor Gospel music suffered a huge loss in the sudden passing of Kenny Taylor, age 63. Kenny was a great guy that looked out for so many artists and paved the way for many major artists you see and hear today.

In addition he helped to groom so many looking to break into the business side of the industry, including myself as just a teenager, and he did this so unselfishly. He worked diligently every year in GMWA showcasing new artists. He was also the manager for Baltimore's Own Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers. Rest in Paradise Kenny, you will truly be missed!

Thomas A Dorsey Convention NCGCC (National Gospel Choirs Choruses Convention) This is the 84th year of the convention and it's deemed as one of the most tenured music conventions, and its coming to Baltimore!

August 5-11, 2017 at the Marriott Waterfront Hotel, it's been 19 years since it's been to Baltimore and based on the current sell outs of the main hotel and the various accompanying hotels, it's going to be huge! Monday, August 7, at 7pm will be Baltimore Night, a night that has been set aside to celebrate the great musical gifts and talents from the city, both past and present! This is a night you don’t want to miss, special musical guests include Jonathan Nelson, Jason Nelson, Maurette Brown-Clarke, a citywide collaborative dance ministry presentation, 300 voice choir and much more plan now to be in the building. For more info www.ncgccinc.com Shout out to Pastor Shawn Bell, of Greater Paradise Christian Center, Baltimore, MD who is the host pastor!

Top 5 Gospel Songs

#1. I’m Blessed............................Charlie Wilson #2. You Deserve It...JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise #3. Joy.................................... VaShawn Mitchell #4. My World Needs You........ Kirk Franklin feat Sara Reeves, Tamela Mann, Tasha Cobbs #5. Change Me .............................Tamela Mann

Top 5 Gospel Albums

#1. One Way ..................................... Tamela Mann #2. WOW 2017 #3. The Hill ......................................Travis Greene #4. Best Days..................................... Tamela Mann #5. You Deserve It... JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise

Happy Independence Day! "He whom the son sets free, is free indeed!" Celebrate your independence! Commemorate and celebrate safe! Our city is in a horrible place, with the senseless violence and killing, I pray the blood of Jesus over our city, as we continue to pray for peace, a plan of action for our city, and a turning of hearts who seek to kill and hurt people, there has to be a better way! Til next month follow me on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter @ miserickaj. Tune into "IN With Miss Ericka J" every weekend Friday-Sunday 5:30pm on iheart radio, heaven 600, www.heaven600.com, & 102.7 hd2, where I keep you "IN Tune, IN the Mix, & IN the Know”. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 33 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 33

man talk

Dr. Charles Barrett

Nothing just happens. Yes, some things are beyond our control; but nothing just happens. Because there is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1), all that we have done, all that we are doing now, and all that we will do in the future fits into God’s purpose and plan for our lives. Be encouraged. Our steps have been divinely orchestrated by a loving God who always has our best interest at heart (Psalm 37:23-24; Jeremiah 29:11).

THE IMPORTANCE OF PERSPECTIVE Perspective—the manner in which we think about our lives and our circumstances—significantly influences how we go through challenging situations. For this reason, we must align our thoughts with God’s thoughts (I Corinthians 2:16). Regardless of what we are going through, are we viewing things from a God perspective rather than an understandable, yet selfish, human point of view? While it does not change the reality of going through, it helps to know that there is purpose in going through.

YOU DID NOTHING WRONG One of the most common responses to going through is to immediately ask ourselves: What did I do to deserve this? While facing various challenges, we assume that we are being punished for our wrongdoing. This, however, is not always true, especially because God does not do things like we do (Isaiah 55:8-9) or respond to us based on our shortcomings (Psalm 103:8-13). Therefore, going through is more than receiving a celestial scolding. Perhaps one of the best illustrations of this principle is Job, a man who did nothing wrong (Job 1:1, 8) yet he experienced significant hardship (Job 1:13-19; 2:7).

Brothers, because going through is not necessarily punitive, we should consider it a privilege when we experience various difficulties because they exist to make us better (James 1:2-4). As I’ve often mentioned in previous iterations of this column, the mechanism by which The Lord develops our Christian character (i.e., The Fruit of The Spirit; Galatians 5:22-23) is by allowing us to endure uncomfortable and difficult seasons.

In other words, to grow in kindness, He places us in situations in which we must practice being kind to others. To become more patient, He gives us opportunities to exercise patience—perhaps through marriage or raising children. To be more loving, God purposely places us in the company of those who are not easy to love so that we would learn to demonstrate the sacrificial and unconditional love of Christ. And here’s the best part: God is so committed to developing each aspect of our Christian character that He gives us ample opportunity to grow until we have been fully perfected!

So, the next time you’re going through, rather than assuming you did something wrong (because you probably didn’t), consider the aspect of your Christian character that God is perfecting.

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Dr. Charles Barrett is a school psychologist with Loudoun County Public Schools and Associate Professor of Psychology at Northern Virginia Community College.

YOU CAN HANDLE THIS Also, noteworthy from Job is that God carefully chooses who will go through (Job 1:8; 2:3). And because nothing catches God by surprise, not only does He choose who will go through, but He also places limits on what we will go through (Job 1:12; 2:6). In other words, because He loves us and knows us, God will never give us more than we can handle (I Corinthians 10:13).

So as difficult as it seems today, you will get through this. Although you feel that you can’t, you’ve felt that way before and you’re still standing. And not only are you still standing, you’re stronger, wiser, and better than you’ve ever been! Brothers, the next time you’re going through, be encouraged. Like Job, God has chosen you because you can handle it!

IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU John’s account of Jesus traveling from Judea to Galilee (John 4:3) contains a seemingly insignificant detail in verse 4: He had to go through Samaria on the way. In other words, although Samaria was not his final destination, he had to go through it to ultimately get to where he was going. And so it is with us today: the temporary circumstances in which we find ourselves are simply a part of the journey to reach our predestined destination.

Consider this: going through Samaria had less to do with Jesus than who he met while at the well: a Samaritan woman—someone with whom he was not allowed to interact with based on Jewish law. But because Jesus has always been focused on changing people’s lives, he defied tradition and engaged in a meaningful conversation with the woman that changed her life! In light of this, what would have happened if Jesus didn’t go through Samaria? Well, the woman would have missed a divine encounter with Jesus, the source of her total fulfillment, rather than the temporary satisfaction that came from physical water and her many failed relationships. So, if Jesus didn’t go through Samaria, it wasn’t that he would have missed anything; but the woman—the one who needed him to be in that place at that time—would have missed a once in a lifetime opportunity to be in his presence and receive all that she needed.

Brothers, like the woman needed to meet Jesus as he was going through, there are people who need to meet you as you’re going through.

So rather than complaining about how difficult things might be, change your perspective. Think about those whom The Lord has purposely placed in your path. Think about how you can positively impact someone’s life. Because your steps are ordered, know that where you are is exactly where God wants you to be. Although it’s not your final destination, God has placed you there for a reason; not only for you, but those whom you will encounter as you’re going through.

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