Grace & Glory Magazine October 2022

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 (NLT)

12 Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. 13 Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other. Hebrews 13:7 (NLT)

7 Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.

Lord, thank you for the pastors and spiritual leaders who have input into our lives. Help us to glean knowledge and understanding of Your ways from them so that we can know You better. Bless them and help them to always be the men and women of God You created them to be.

on the cover:

Pastor Timothy & Bishop Shirley Stanfill

Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral Maryland

Cover Story

pgs 8-11 October is Clergy Appreciation Month and this month’s issue is dedicated to all of the faithful clergy all over the world. We are shining a spotlight on Pastor Timothy and Bishop Shirley Stanfill of Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral in Maryland. Pastor Timothy and Bishop Shirley Stanfill are celebrating five years of marriage with a vow renewal. We talk with Bishop Shirley Stanfill about the importance of renewing marriage vows every year, and Pastor Timothy Stanfill shares his thoughts with us in a powerful article.

Healthy Soul

20 JOY BRINGER

Season Bowers

Joy To Do The Work

24 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH

Elder Tracey George

Ruth Ready

28 MONTHLY MANNA

Min. Carenda Deonne

Are You Listening?

30 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Pastor Rhoda Turner

Freeing Yourself From Your Past

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 Ericka J.

GRAPHIC ARTIST

Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com

COVER PACKAGE PHOTO CREDITS

Patricia McDougall pmcdougall6@gmail.com

Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.

Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration.

For advertising and more information contact 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org

Follow us on:

Grace & Glory Magazine

@gracenglorymag

GraceandGlorymag

Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org

Contributors

DR. CARLA DEBNAM

Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.

ELDER TRACEY GEORGE

Tracey Nicole George is an ordained elder. 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.

God’s Servant

October is National Clergy Appreciation Month. Pastor Appreciation Day began with the establishment of Clergy Appreciation Month. In 1Timothy 5:17, Paul began the concept of clergy appreciation when he stated that the elders of the church are worthy of a double honor. He reiterated this idea in 1Thessalonians 5:12-13, when he stated that those who work hard among you should be held in the highest regard for their work. This idea became Clergy Appreciation Month in 1992, established by pastors and religious workers.

This month congregations all over the nation will take time out to honor their Pastors. This year in particular, we are celebrating these men and women of God who are going beyond the call of duty as they continue to navigate through unchartered waters post-pandemic. Our Pastors and leaders are still making crucial decisions to make sure the word of God is still going forth. Our Pastors and leaders have been diligent, innovative, and creative, making sure their members stayed connected to the body of Christ. And as a result of their steadfast, unmovable, and abounding faith, many have come to the knowledge of Christ in unprecedented ways. It is Biblical for us to recognize and honor the men and women of God who serve faithfully the flock of God. In fact, Paul wrote the following words to the church at Thessalonica, “Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work . . .” (I Thessalonians 5:12-13)

It is clear from scripture that the faithful and dedicated Pastors of our churches are worthy of appreciation and honor. Clergy Appreciation Month provides an excellent opportunity for our churches to affirm their love and appreciation for those who are called by God and who lead their congregations in fulfilling the Great Commission. Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do His work and build up the church, the Body of Christ. “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.” (Jeremiah 3:15)

Pastors and other ministers work tirelessly caring for their flock. A minister's work day is rarely a "9-5" job, and they cannot go home at the "end" of the day and just leave all the occupational problems at the office. A Pastor is never off-duty and is always on call. If we stop for a moment and think about all a pastor does we would be more sensitive to our Pastor’s needs. We should always lift our Pastors in prayer and ask the Lord to surround them with loving care, to give them strength and walk with them, and to help them with the burdens that they must bear.

Many of us have been members of our churches for many years and if you look back over the years, I believe that you would agree that our pastors have played major roles in the fabric of

our lives. They have prayed for us, taught us, corrected us and guided us. Our pastors have celebrated and laughed with us in the good times, cried with us in times of sorrow and loved us when we weren’t so lovable. As we celebrate Clergy Appreciation Month, remember to thank God for the precious gifts He has bestowed upon us, His anointed men and women of God, our beloved Pastors!

And He gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and some evangelists; and some pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-12)

Grace&Glory 7 the editor

Pastor Timothy & Bishop Shirley Stanfill

Q&A Interview-Bishop Shirley Stanfill

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, welcome back to Grace & Glory. It’s been a while, so we have a lot to catch up on, so let’s jump right in. You and your husband, Pastor Timothy Stanfill, just recently renewed your wedding vows. First, would you share with us why the two of you decided to renew your vows after only five years of marriage?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Yes, it has. Yes, we had an awesome celebration and vow renewal. When we met, we didn’t know each of other, it was a faith walk. We walk by faith and not by sight. Five years later we have a yes, I love you, and I know that I know that I know; so, it was an affirmation of declaration to renew our wedding vows to celebrate our love and commitment to one another. Praise unto our God who does all things well.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, you and your husband are advocates of marriage and share a passion for advising and counseling married couples. Where does this passion stem from?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Love is the first covenant established in the earth by God for mankind. Marriage is the greatest bond of man. We as believers must honor, celebrate, cherish and protect what God has given us. The enemy is always looking to steal, kill and destroy, especially the covenant of marriage. Jesus came so we could have life and life more abundantly. Here at the Cathedral, we believe in feeding life into our lives which is the key to keeping the enemy out. We feed life into our lives physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and financially. We celebrate our families, our marriages, and all that God has given us to the fullest. That’s why we celebrate and celebrate every year. This 5th year was awesome and so wonderful!

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, while we are talking about

couples, many women struggle with singleness and waiting to be married. Do you also have a heart for those women? What would you say to that woman who has been trusting and waiting on God to fulfill that desire?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Yes absolutely! I was divorced for 15 years and then I got married and then became a widow for 15 years, so I understand all the things that come with being single. You can be single and not lonely. You can be busy about the kingdom and enjoy your life. I traveled all over the world preaching and teaching. I had several businesses so one could say I was single but that didn’t make me lonely. If we understand singleness, it gives an opportunity to focus on what God has given you to do until who he has for you shows up. When you are busy and enjoying your life, guess what? It causes the time, the waiting time, the appointed time to move even quicker. So, I would say to all the single women, we have a singles session at this year’s upcoming STRETCH conference. I invite you to come and participate. There will be other women there to minister and pray for you as you wait on your appointed time.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, I understand you are having a special event for couples as part of your annual STRETCH conference, would you tell us about this event?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Absolutely, Royal Night Out is our event for our married couples. It will be a night of good food, fellowshipping, dancing, laughing and just enjoying your soulmate.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, we touched on one upcoming event, that is a part of a much bigger annual event scheduled for this month, your ‘STRETCH’ Conference. Please tell us about this year’s conference and all it entails. Will there be a theme for this year?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Yes, STRETCH is our yearly summit, which stands for Saints Tenaciously Reaching Expanding Training Creating Harmoniously. We look forward to our STRETCH Conference every year. People walk away with a wonderful experience after participating in our conference. We have several workshops this year which includes our Single Saved and Sanctified Workshop and our Youth Outreach. This year the theme is “Think Big”, God is able to do above all we can ever think or imagine. We believe we are not thinking big enough. So as a man thinks so shall he be. We must see our loved ones, neighbors, coworkers, and enemies safe and out of the kingdom of darkness. We must think big, believe big, walk big, talk big but most of all declare the business of our God.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill what would you like to see as a takeaway for this year’s conference; what are your hopes that someone will gain from the ‘STRETCH’ conference.

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: What I would like to see someone take away from STRETCH is increased boldness that Saints will live like a well-watered garden and hearing the voice of God like never before. The manifestation of having been with Him brings a glow. People will see the difference and growth in our lives and be drawn to come into His presence. That’s what I’d like to see as takeaways from this year’s STRETCH.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, let’s shift gears a little and talk about your Prayer Garden mentioned earlier. Please tell us about this Prayer Garden.

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Oh my, my, my! At our home, my husband built a Paradise Prayer Garden. It has several themes with space to sit, think, pray, meditate and concentrate on God. It has vibrant colors and is truly a Paradise Garden. Wedding and vow renewal ceremonies can be performed there. You can actually feel the presence of God when you enter the garden. Upon entering you know you’ve entered into a special place that is anointed and consecrated to hear from God.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, would you answer this question, “Who is God to You?”

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Wow Jackie, this is a good one. Who is God to me? He is the air I breathe, the water I drink. He is my protector. He is that still small voice that speaks to me and confirms it’s Him. He is Daddy, Abba, Elohim, Eli. You know when you’re with Him, everything is going to be alright. That’s who God is to me!

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, finish this sentence, “I feel the presence of God when . . .”

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: I wake up in the morning, in the shower, when I’m driving on the road or about to do something wrong or getting ready to do something right. Reading His word in my Paradise Prayer Garden. I also love when He stops me in the middle of my steps and speaks and all I can say is yes Lord!

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, you do the work of the Lord bringing Christ to men and women locally, nationally and internationally. What are the challenges you face in today’s world and society to fulfill God’s purpose for your life?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: Wow, so many challenges- the enemy’s

Past STRETCH Conferences

camp, jealously, envy and friendly fire. There are so many challenges, but I believe the greatest challenge is to remain on spot, remain humble, remain usable, and keep the focus on the kingdom and always make it about God. So many are making it about their name and paying their bills, and that their assignment is about themselves. The scripture says, “What would it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, and lose his own soul.” The greatest challenge is staying true, being real, being committed, and staying focus.

G&G: Bishop Stanfill, lastly what do you believe God is saying to the body of Christ and what should the body of Christ (the church) be doing in this present time?

Bishop Shirley Stanfill: I believe that the Holy Spirit is saying to the body of Christ to stop the entertainment, stop trying to be like the world, stop trying to get people to join the kingdom but instead be born in the kingdom. I believe that the Holy Spirit is saying to us,“The time is short, and that Jesus is soon to come.” I believe that the Holy Spirit is saying to us, “Without righteousness and holiness no man shall see God”, so it’s all about being holy, cutting away from the world and the people in the world, not being impressed by them and not being moved by their money, their politics, and celebrity status. The Holy Spirit is telling us, “To be in the world but not of the world, to be focused on the timing, and to be focused on what’s happening in Israel.” There are seven stages to Christ life, we have the birth, the life, the death, the resurrection, the rapture which is coming and them we have the battle of Armageddon and then The Millennium. We as God’s people should be preparing to serve in the Millennium. We as God’s people should be prepared to serve in the battle of Armageddon. If we understand the Scriptures, we understand that what we are going through right here certifies, prepares, and conditions us for what’s coming. Thank you, Jackie, for having me, it has truly been a blessing and a pleasure. Until next time or until he returns, blessings. Thank you, Jackie, for having me, it has truly been a blessing and a pleasure. Until next time or until he returns, blessings.

My Fifth-Year Anniversary

I thank the Lord, for His favor, the scriptures are so real and true. I found my wife and obtained favor from the Lord. The Lord has extended His mercy on me by sending me my wife, my friend, my bishop; she has helped me understand what love is really all about. She healed me by loving me and showing me how to truly love someone. She literally helped me to understand who I was, and who I am in the body of Christ.

And it’s beautiful to be loved. I was looking for love in all the wrong places and I thank God for this match made in heaven. My wife showed me how to be a person who can love, who can trust, who can have fun and who can actually have happiness here on this earth and be free for the first time in my life. I’m so excited to be there for her in every which way I can and love her the way she wants to be loved. One thing for sure, I hope everyone gets a chance to find love here on this earth, I know for a fact, and I can actually say I found love. Happy anniversary, my love and many, many more!

The Stanfill’s. In closing the real power of love is touching and agreeing in the power of prayer. Two are truly better than one. When one is weak the other one is strong. It has not always been a cake walk, but it gets easier day by day. What is love? Love is patient, is kind, does not envy, does not brag, is not proud, does not behave itself inappropriately, does not seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, rejoices with the truth, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.... this is our marriage . . . Bible Living, Optimistic, Virtuous, Ecstasy, and Love.

Pastor Timothy Stanfill

Dr. Carla

Know the Signs

This month we acknowledge those impacted by domestic violence and breast cancer. You can be healed from both, and they can also be deadly. Many times, people do not know how they can prevent, detect, and seek treatment when in harm’s way or a diagnosis is made. Knowing the signs can help those around us live and thrive after experiencing what can be traumatic experiences. Beyond words we must be proactive in preventing and protecting ourselves from harm.

Some of the signs of abuse in a relationship of any kind is the need for the abuser to have power and control. This can sometimes be through verbal abuse by demeaning, shaming and belittling words towards the other individual or family member. It can be subtle like telling someone that they are stupid or never do anything right or overt name calling especially in front of others. Sometimes the signs are not allowing the person to visit family, giving them dirty looks, hindering access to family finances, pressure to use alcohol, drugs or have

sex and having bouts of extreme jealousy. It can escalate to threats with weapons, threats towards others you care about and beatings. These are signs that the relationship is not healthy and maybe it is time to seek help.

Facing and detecting breast cancer can be done with yearly mammograms and breast selfexamination. It is important to know your family history because you may need to screen earlier than the recommended. Communication with family and your health care provider is important. Many times, we do not know others have serious illnesses until it is too late. Some of the signs to look for are any change in the size or the shape of the breast, pain in any area of the breast, nipple discharge other than breast milk (including blood) or a new lump in the breast. Family history, getting older, breast density, and having previous radiation therapy can be risk factors. Risk factors you can control are decreasing alcohol use, exercise, healthy

eating, and obesity at an older age. While domestic, intimate partner and family violence is not new there are ways we can help those in harm’s way by supporting and educating them as they seek to break free from the abuse and get the help they desire. Learning not to judge those in abusive relationships but being there, when possible, can make a difference in their healing journey. Educating those in our circle about breast cancer and what we can do to prevent it is the best support we can give. If someone you know is going through that diagnosis and healing journey, support them as well. Both issues are troubling and can be very stressful for the individual and their family and friends. Be there for those in need and make their journey a little more bearable.

Sources https://www.thehotline.org/identifyabuse/domestic-abuse-warning-signs/ https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ dcpc/resources/features/ breastcancerawareness/index.htm

Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center

Joy To Do The Work

I woke up from a great night's sleep. I spent a few moments thanking the Lord for His presence and His goodness, but very quickly my mind turned to the day ahead. The checklist of ‘to do‘s’ was quite long and included a deadline fast approaching. As I began to strategically map out a plan to accomplish all of it, a cloud of dread and procrastination came over me. Suddenly, I didn’t even want to get out of bed. What happened? It had barely begun; how could my day take such a sudden turn? I tried to shake myself free from the grip of lethargy and avoidance, but I really struggled to find the energy to get out of bed. Thoughts filled my mind, “How can I avoid the things on my list? Can I put it off another day?” As my mind and heart were duking it out, I heard deep in my spirit, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work.” 1 Chronicles 28:20

The words of King David filled my heart. This was more than a tough love moment of compassion and fatherly wisdom but also a reminder of the tool I needed to accomplish my assignment.

When King David was ready to hand over his kingdom to his son Solomon, he had many instructions. David was entrusting his greatest dream to his son to complete. Building the temple was not the Lord’s idea, it was David’s. Unfortunately for him, he was not going to be the one to see it through. King David knew the scale of this assignment. His father’s heart knew that his son would be faced with tasks that seemed insurmountable, so he gave this advice - the needed tools to overcome fear, doubt, and procrastination.

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly.” 1 Chron. 28:20.

Being overcome with fear, avoidance, and procrastination is nothing new. These feelings, while not always rooted, in truth, seem to carry a lot of power. But what’s even more powerful? The presence and authority of Jesus. Sometimes I don’t feel strong. The assignments given to me seem far too much for me to handle. Sometimes I don’t feel joyful. The pressure and hard work can suck the joy out of the task at hand. And often I feel like it would be easier to quit.

David knew that the assignment given to his son would overwhelm him. He knew that Solomon may struggle to find the courage to keep going. As a good father, David left his son a strong reminder to help when discouragement and fear set in. He had a lifetime of experience overcoming the impossible and pushing through when it would have been so much easier to

give up. David knew of God’s faithfulness and love in times of emotional turmoil, and he could testify of the strength found in the presence of the Lord. He knew his son needed this reminder, and we do too.

The enemy wants us to look around and see the impossible, to be derailed by the feeling of dread, but the Lord calls us in the face of fear and challenge, to be strong and courageous. What does it mean to be strong? Billions of dollars are spent each year trying to attain strength. From drinks, powers and pills, to gyms, weights, and routines, to books, seminars, and strategies, everyone wants to have a corner of the market in the quest for strength. Sure, those things may help but it’s the joy of the Lord where we find the epitome of strength - the power to withstand great force or pressure.

David knew the fullness of joy in the presence of the Lord (Ps. 16:11). He found joy, strength and courage because of the protection of the Lord (Ps 5:11). David was filled with overflowing joy because of the salvation of the Lord (Ps 32:11). Joy in the Lord was David’s source, his not-so-secret weapon. Because of this joy he was able to do the work, no matter that battle, with confidence that God would see it through.

Procrastination is normal. But waiting until we feel like it is not productive. If we wait for the inspiration and sudden energy to turn up, we may be stuck waiting for a long time. And it’s not a lonesome wait, we are sitting ducks for the taunting of the enemy. The jeers of fear, shame, and inadequacy are loud and unending. Instead of sitting in the mush pot of avoidance and procrastination, we can find refuge in the endless inspiration of the Spirit. Once again, David’s words give us the not-so-secret remedy. “And Solomon, my son, learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and serve Him with your whole heart and a willing mind. For the Lord sees every heart and knows every plan and thought. If you seek Him, you will find Him.” 1 Chron 28:9.

The greatest tool to overcome procrastination is rejoicing. The joy of the Lord set to motion. Worship, praise, clapping, dancing, singing, shouting are all ways to jolt us out of the doldrums of dread and the prison of procrastination. In seeking His presence we will find joy and joy is what we need to be strong and courageous and do the work.

Joyfully,

Season Bowers

Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509

Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook

Through exploration and discovery, each child receives ample opportunity to develop his or her natural curiosity and creativity.

to triumph

Ruth Ready

Get Ruth ready! Ruth ready simply means to get ready to reap a harvest like Ruth. God has a bountiful blessing with your name on it. To reap your harvest, you must be ready to receive it. You can receive your harvest from God when you set all sin aside and are obedient to God. Doing so sets you up to reap all the seeds you have sown. Get Ruth ready to receive increase, overflow, and more than enough in this new season. The seeds you have sown are about to make you soar.

Ruth followed simple instructions given by her motherin-law Naomi (Ruth 3:3-4) and she reaped a harvest that not only changed her life, but her entire family’s life too. Without intimidation or hesitation, Ruth initiated the instructions Naomi gave her and experienced an impactful increase. You have experienced the seasonal shift from summer to fall and now it is time for the Father’s favor to fall on you. It is your harvest time. Get Ruth ready to reap.

Initiate your increase. Ruth went after her increase. She told Naomi that she was going to work (Ruth 2:2). She took the first steps in securing a successful future for her family by deciding to go to work in the field to glean. Ruth was gleaning in the field of Boaz, a man of great wealth that just happened to be related to her late husband and the family’s redeemer. After inquiring and finding out who Ruth was, Boaz instructed his men not to touch her. He told them to let her glean among the sheaves and even instructed them to drop some on purpose. He told them to give her access to drink as much as she wants from the vessels. At mealtime, she was invited to the table to eat and drink. She was also told to eat until you are full. She did just that and even was able to bring a bit home to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth received more than she expected. She left her place empty but came

back exceeding her expectation by getting the opportunity to reap, for protection, catching the eye of her future redeemer, she ate well, and took some food home. When you make your initial move, God has a bumper crop blessing just for you. Get Ruth ready to reap.

Instruction can lead to increase. Naomi gave Ruth specific instructions for an encounter with their family’s redeemer, Boaz. Ruth received her instructions and initiated the plan. In Ruth 3:3-4 MSG, Naomi told Ruth, “Take a bath. Put on some perfume. Get all dressed up and go to the threshing floor. But don’t let him know you’re there until the party is well under way and he’s had plenty of food and drink. When you see him slipping off to sleep, watch where he lies down and then go there. Lie at his feet to let him know that you are available to him for marriage. Then wait and see what he says. He’ll tell you what to do.” Ruth gave a rapid response. She said in Ruth 3:5 MSG, “If you say so, I’ll do it, just as you’ve told me.” Ruth did exactly what Naomi told her to do. In the end, Ruth received her redeemer Boaz. God gave you a plan to get Ruth ready to reap your harvest He has promised to you. Go after it and glean the lion’s share God has for you. Get Ruth ready to reap.

Intimidation interrupts your flow. God has not given you the spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Ruth didn’t let fear stop her and neither should you. She was on a mission and stayed focused. She didn’t care that she was going alone or that she was in a strange environment. She stayed focused on her goal and lived a glorious life in the end. Whatever you do, don’t grow weary in well doing because in due season you will reap if you faint not (Galatians 6:9). Once you are Ruth ready, you too will be bound for a blessing like Boaz. Reap!

Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com

masque,

Carenda

Deonne

Are You Listening?

When my Pastor, Dr. Clifford A. Jones, Sr. is preaching his sermon, he tends to say, “Are you listening?” I noticed he does this when he is going more in depth through scripture and examples within his sermon. When he is describing a certain situation, or giving history based on scripture, it’s important to him that we are in tune to what God is saying and how we can make the word applicable to our lives.

Throughout my journey and continual faith walk as a Christian, I do believe that we serve a God who speaks to us. The question is, are we listening? What I love about God is that He may speak to us individually or collectively. He also may use different ways to speak to us such as music, dreams, people, and visions. He knows us so distinctly and knows what it will take to get our attention.

There are times He will even send us warning signs and tests to speak to us when we need to seek, surrender and/or repent from ways that are not pleasing to Him. No matter how God decides to speak, the bigger question is “Are you listening.” Are you taking notice of, or giving your attention to His Lordship? As for me, the Lord uses visions when speaking. Just recently I had a vision and I want to share it with you.

In this vision I was using all my energy and strength to hold a door. On the other side of the door was an ocean of water. I was so afraid that the water was going to rush in and cause a flood and drown me. With all my natural ability I kept holding the door. Water began to come through the bottom of the door. When I looked down, it was up to my ankles. However, I noticed that the water was clear, pristine and to my surprise very warm.

The next voice I heard was that of the Lord, and he said, “Back away from the door.” I knew to back away from the door meant I had to let go, and trust God as well. It also meant something else that I will share a little later in this writing. Nevertheless, I did not murmur, panic, or negotiate with God. I took a couple steps back and the door opened, and the water began to flow in. However, the water did not flow in as a rushing flood, it was peaceful and gentle in nature. Before I knew it, the water was lifting me higher and the last thing I saw in this vision was me floating on top of the water with my hands stretched out to the side and smiling. It was refreshing and joyful lacking the presence of fear or death. I had more freedom and life after I obeyed God, by backing away from the door, as opposed to using all my energy and strength to keep it closed.

When I opened my eyes, I was speechless. The vision was so real, but there was one thing that boggled me. In the natural, I am terrified of water. I do not know how to swim; let alone float. I could not understand why God would use what I fear most to illustrate something so powerful concerning my life? Then I remembered in my recent devotional it said, “Many instructions that God will send to you for your destiny lifting will never make sense at first instance.” I so agree with that. I could not shake why God would illustrate His purpose and plan by using what I fear. It was not making sense to me. The Lord told me to continue to mediate on that vision, and I did.

I remember speaking about it to my hair stylist and my husband. Both confirmed that God was sending increased blessings and lifting me to a higher level in purpose, but I must listen when He is speaking and not be afraid to move when He says move. My husband went on to say, “Don’t be your own stumbling block.” I remember the Lord sharing with me, through continued mediation, that I saw the water as a reflection of drowning, flooding, and death, but He saw it as a reflection of elevation, restoration, and overflow. This also reminded me of the scripture that says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9.

The other thing God revealed to me, in that vision, is that trust is layered. We not only must trust the God in whom we serve, but we also must trust the God who lives inside of us. When the Lord said, back away from the door, I did so in obedience and trust. But once I backed away from the door, I also had to trust the God who lives inside of me for whatever was coming next. Are you listening? Your current place, and what’s next in your life, come with trust and obedience to God and the God that lives inside of you!

God is speaking so boldly in this fourth quarter of 2022. He is releasing strategy, creativity, and wisdom. He has much to say, and much to reveal. He has much for you and me to do in the land of the living. The question is, “Are you listening?”

Min, Carenda Deonne Beamon Speaker/Author/Certified Stress Management Life Coach

www.carendadeonne.com

Freeing Yourself From Your Past TURNER

worthy enough. To this day he’s my biggest cheerleader. He pushes me out of my comfort zone because he saw more in me, and he didn’t want my past to keep me from reaching what God has for me.

Sometimes we allow issues from our past to stop us from pressing forward. We are so troubled by our past that it hinders our growth.

I know that some of you have dealt with greater past issues. They are still holding you back from God’s promises. The Bible tells us in Isaiah 43:18-19a, "Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth;”

Rhoda

Your past was never supposed to be a stumbling block. It’s supposed to be a tool to propel you forward. But a lot of times our past becomes a hinderance and not a motivation to keep going. I remember vividly when I was younger and I so desperately wanted to be a singer. I didn’t have the desire to sing professionally I just wanted to lead a song. I was told as a child that it wasn’t my place and that I should stick to being a background singer. That’s what I focused on to become the best background singer ever.

I took that same mentality to everything. Living in the background was my specialty. I didn’t need the spotlight I stayed in my place. Until I met my husband, Jason Turner. He asked me why didn’t I lead a song? I told him the story that I previously shared in the paragraph before. He was so saddened by that seed that was planted and rooted inside of me. He worked on shoving me out of that box. Uplifting me and telling me that I’m good enough and that I’m

Don’t allow yourself to be held back by the past, free yourself of the issues that’s holding you back and press towards what God has for you. What happens to you when you hold on to the past? It becomes a weight that is purposed to hold you down. That weight causes destruction to your physical body as well as your spiritual body. It causes you to miss what God has in store for you. Try this for me standup and walk 2 steps forward, stop and then walk backwards 4 steps, then repeat. What is happening? Every time you walk forward what causes you to seem like you are not moving forward is your past. When you are held back by your past you get farther and farther from the promises of God.

Philippians 3:13-14, Brethren. I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Don’t let your past dictate your future. Your past is there to guide you not to hold you back. You got this, with God’s help you can accomplish anything,

Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org

health matters

Monkey Pox

Our cognizance of infections in our environment has increased through no intentions of our own. We have become acutely aware of biological hazards that affect our health. When we thought the coronavirus pandemic was over, we learned there was a new medical threat to our lives, MONKEY POX.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral disease similar to smallpox. It’s found most often in areas of central Africa in monkeys. The first case of human monkeypox was reported in 1970. Almost all monkeypox cases in people outside of Africa are linked to international travel to countries where the disease commonly occurs or through imported animals. There is no link between the occurrence of the coronavirus and monkeypox.

What are the signs and symptoms:

Like many viral infections, monkeypox presents flu-like symptoms at the beginning of the disease. These symptoms may include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, nasal congestion, and a cough. Individuals develop a rash on their hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth. The lesions may also appear on the genitals. The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy. The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing. The symptoms usually start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

How does it spread?

Monkeypox can spread between people or between people and certain infected animals. Monkeypox can spread through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact.

Individuals come in direct contact with the monkeypox rash, scabs, body fluids and secretions, clothing, fabric, and objects contaminated with monkeypox viral particles. No studies have found a clear link between monkeypox and water in pools or hot tubs,. The monkeypox virus is killed in water at the chlorine levels recommended for disinfection in recreational water venues by CDC and required by U.S. jurisdictions.

How is monkeypox treated?

There are no treatments specifically for monkeypox. The viral infection usually clears in 2-3 weeks. The viruses that cause monkeypox and smallpox are similar. Antiviral drugs developed to protect against smallpox may be used to treat monkeypox in severe cases. Antiviral drugs are used only for people with severe monkeypox disease or at high risk of severe illness, like people with weakened immune systems or skin conditions, such as HIV that is not virally suppressed and eczema.

How can monkeypox be prevented?

The Coronavirus outbreak programmed us to be more vigilant with hand washing. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom will help decrease the spread of monkeypox. Multiple cases of monkeypox occur between individuals in close personal contact. Avoid sexual contact with a person with a rash or flu-like symptoms. Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people with a rash that looks like monkeypox. Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.

Saints, the bible tells us that God desires us to be in good health, even as our souls prosper. Good health is our right. Implement preventive measures like hand washing and keeping surfaces disinfected, and avoid sharing objects and clothing with others that appear sick, As always, trust in the Lord to make your path clear and free from serious illnesses.

Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University

DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com

Grace&Glory

Gospel & Entertainment

Whitney Houston

The internet went crazy when the trailer dropped for the upcoming Whitney Houston Biopic “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” last month. It was almost like you could hear screams from whatever screen you watched it on! This Sony Picture Entertainment release is said to be the official authorized form, signed off by her longtime manager Clive Davis and Primary Wave Music, of this Super-Duper Icon’s life. At this juncture, it’s said that the movie will depict her life from the beginning of her music career inclusive of her first stage performance and meeting Clive Davis, her marrying Bobby Brown, and her performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at The Super Bowl. The contents of the film trailer also suggest this film is bigger than just about her life but how she changed the culture of the industry and exceeded expectations; the greatest voice of our time has an even greater story. The film is set to release, December 23, just in time for the holidays! I absolutely can’t wait!

Kirk Franklin & Maverick City

These kingdom forces hosted the BIGGEST PRISON EVENT IN THE HISTORY OF FLORIDA! Out of 1400 inmates, 1300 were in the prison yard worshiping and singing “Jireh, you are enough” the name of Jesus rang out in a major way. Since then they have received letters from inmates saying they accepted Jesus, and that the prison has seen more peace and revival. This is what music ministry and kingdom building is about!

Tim Bowman & Faith City

DMV’s own Tim Bowman Jr. has dropped some fire on us! He’s accompanied by Faith City singers who have released their debut project, “Welcome To Faith City”, the lead single “Jesus” featuring Le’Andria Johnson is already out, and is fire! The vocal features on this project include Kim Burrell, Bri Babineaux, Kierra Sheard, Maranda Curtis, PJ Edmunds, and Mumen Ngenge to name a few. GO GRAB THIS ONE, THANK ME LATER!

JJ Hairston

The New Project “Believe Again” by JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise is available NOW! It released on September 30, the release concert was held in Atlanta, GA. at Light Of Joy Church in Riverdale. This new album features Travis Greene, Benita Jones, David Wilford, Donishisa Ballard, Marc Britt, Juanita Contee, and others. His current single “Thankful” is currently in the Top Ten on Billboard, I have been waiting for this full release. This is JJ’s first project since becoming senior pastor of All Nation’s Worship Assembly DC.

Ron Summers

Congrats to Baltimore’s Own Ron Summers on his single “It Is So” featuring Tasha Page Lockhart holding on Billboards Top 30 at #22 for 3 consecutive weeks, that’s awesome for an Independent Artist! Ron shows no signs of stopping releasing his second single “To Come” on September 30, this hand clapping foot stomping single has all the potential to go even higher! Let’s support our independent artists by downloading their music!

“TO COME IS HERE!”

Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers

They will be celebrating the release of their latest project “The Hour Of Power Experience” featuring The Reunion Choir with 2 CD release events. On Sunday October 9, CD release concert at Hour Of Power, 6:30pm at Concord Baptist Church 5204 Liberty Heights Avenue in Baltimore. And Monday October 10, 6:30pm-10pm, they gonna do it on wheels, and perform LIVE at the Monday Night Gospel Skate Party at the all-new Shake & Bake Family Fun Center, 1601 Pennsylvania Avenue in Baltimore.

Kevin Mickie

I don’t even know how I ever let this one slip pass my radar! But Kevin Mickie released a single “They That Wait” back in August featuring my girl Lena Byrd Miles and “Mr. Church Feet” himself Dr. Kevin Bond, but WAIT, it doesn’t stop there, he has hands down one of my favorite choirs featured on this as well, The Anointed Voices of Ford, much honor to the Late Great Bishop Andrew J Ford. He pulled true powerhouses for this one, I can’t wait to see what’s next to come from this guy, make sure you go grab that single and let it bless you !

Jesse Powell

A great voice in the R& B and Soul Music arena passed away last month on September 13, 2022, in his home in Los Angeles, CA. He suffered a fatal heart attack at the age of 51. Jesse’s most notable hit song “You” blazed the charts in his prime and is a very timeless song, I can remember it being sung at many weddings and still ringing down matrimonial aisles today. It hit Billboard Charts at #2, at its peak. Love and prayers to his family.

“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com

Whitney Houston

Kirk Franklin & Maverick City

Tim Bowman & Faith City

JJ Hairston

Ron Summers

Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers

Kevin Mickie Jesse Powell