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scripture
Revelation 21:1-7 A New Heaven and a New Earth Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.
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I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
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And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
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‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
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He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then He said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
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He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.
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Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.
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Happy New Year 2024 22 January January2024 2024
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™
January 2024
on the cover: The Reverend Domanic Anthony Smith, M.Div., CHM, Senior Pastor The Ezekiel Church and Ministries Baptist Post Office Box 1651 Baltimore, Maryland 21203 Voice/Text 443.756.9440 dasmith2102@comcast.net
Worshipping Sundays 12:30 pm 101 Avon Beach Road Dundalk, Maryland 21222
Cover Story Pgs 8-11 To kick off the New Year we are welcoming to the Grace & Glory family
The Reverend Domanic Anthony Smith, M.Div., CHM, who is declaring “More In ‘24”. The Reverend Domanic Anthony Smith is the Senior Pastor of The Ezekiel Church and Ministries Baptist. He and The Ezekiel Church and Ministries Baptist worship in the heart of the Turner Station Community… Building and Operating the Lord’s House in Love with Excellence, TOGETHER!
Healthy Soul 20 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Pastor Rhoda Turner
22 NEW DAY FRESH START Brandie Manigault
Daily Devotions
Made New - January is a Time of New Beginning
24 MONTHLY MANNA Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon
What is God Saying For This New Year 4
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30 FROM THE PULPIT Pastor John Saulsbury
Open Doors in 2024
Healthy Mind 18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Lifestyle & Entertainment 26 MONEY MINDSET TIPS Siobahn Saulsbury
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Financial Guidance
Taking Care of Yourself
Healthy Life
32 GOSPEL INDUSTRY & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Ericka J.
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2
28 HEALTH MATTERS
Contributors............................................ 6
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Take Care of Yourself in the New Year
Call Tyson Lesesne
Realtor The Vurganov Group
From the Editor....................................... 7
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Contributors For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Brandie Manigault Dr. Denyce Daniels Rhoda Turner Siobahn Saulsbury Ericka J. GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. For advertising and more information contact
410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Follow us on: Grace & Glory Magazine
DR. CARLA DEBNAM Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5. BRANDIE MANIGAULT Brandie Manigault is the Co-founder of Healing Voice Ministries, Co-pastor of Ecos Church, and the author of New Day Fresh Start. Of all of the titles she has and hats she wears; her favorite is wife and mother. She is a firm believer that love wins and is passionate about the health of the soul. MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda is an Author, Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Certified Life Coach, and TV Personality. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, she received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and her M.A. in Law Degree (Mediation and Dispute Resolution) from Regent University. Min. Carenda helps individuals and professionals rise above their circumstances by detoxing emotionally. Carenda believes Emotional Management Equals Life Management. Her new book, 12 Rounds...How to Detox Emotionally and Win, is scheduled to launch 2024. DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University. PASTOR RHODA TURNER Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ. ERICKA J. Ericka J. is a Baltimore Native Radio and TV Personality Media Mogul. Ericka J. is a community activist who is very passionate about carrying on the legacy of her mother the late Rev. Sandi Johnson. Ericka J. is also a sought-after hair stylist and fashion icon.
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Siobahn Saulsbury Siobahn Saulsbury is a financial ally. She inspires believers to transform their financial legacy for the benefit of future generations. She teaches on God's guidelines to financial success and health in a relatable and tangible way. Her signature phrase is "Make Good Choices"!
from the editor
New Hope It is 2024 and many of us are looking toward this New Year with a fresh new hope! With every New Year it is everyone’s hope that all things will be new again. We look forward with so much hope and anticipation for the new, you know the saying, “Out with the old, in with the new.” The Best is yet to come, every time you say it, it reminds you that something new is always on the way!
keep moving forward. What are my thoughts for the New Year? Stay focused and keep your eyes on the prize. Philippians 3:13-14 says, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
There is always new hope for the future. In the natural the definition of hope is [to wish for, to expect, but without certainty of the fulfillment; to desire very much, but with no real assurance of getting your desire]. However, in the word of God, hope is an indication of certainty. Hope in Scripture means [a strong and confident expectation]. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. (Romans 8:24-25) What a wonderful thought it is that we can eagerly wait for some of the best days of our lives which haven’t happened yet.
I don’t have a catchy slogan or theme for 2024; what I do have is the Word of God. The word of the Lord tells us, God will still be faithful, and His mercies will be new every morning. (Lamentations 3:21-23). God will still provide all my needs according to His riches. (Philippians 4:19) God will still do exceeding abundantly above all that I could ask or think. (Ephesians 3:20)
At the start of every New Year, we look back and reflect upon what did or did not happen. Sometimes we look back with regret and sometimes we look back with thanksgiving. Nevertheless, there isn’t much left to do about 2023 but let it go and
God is “the God of Hope.” He is the source of all real hope. If we are going to have hope (confident expectation), it must come from Him. Hope gives us power to live courageously, to be all God has called us to be in Christ; to embrace all that is new for this New Year. We must remain hopeful. Here is what hope can do for you. It changes how we see ourselves. It changes what we value. It affects what we do with our lives – our talents, time, and treasures. It gives us joy, peace,
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strength, courage, and boldness. And lastly, it gives us confidence in ministry. This New Year my prayer is that you will never lose your hope for the future; the hope that depends on God. We have a new hope every day of the year; it depends on knowing God and resting in His grace. “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 Always remember your present situation is not your final destination. I know the best is yet to come! HAPPY NEW YEAR! Grace&Glory 7
The Reverend Domanic A. Smith, M.Div., CHM EZEKIEL CHURCH AND MINISTRIES Dundalk, Maryland
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More in ‘24
Local Pastor Desires to Give and Do More Seeking more for others comes naturally for Domanic A. Smith, founding pastor of Baltimore’s Ezekiel Church and Ministries. The Baltimore native learned early in life that serving others was the Christ model he hoped to emulate. From his childhood in East Baltimore’s St. Paul Baptist Church, he saw examples of leadership and community service up close and personal through his pastor the Reverend Dr. George A. Crawley, Jr. His congregation provided programs that ministered to the community and people surrounding the church’s community, as well as those in the congregation. Smith was actively involved in his home church’s programs and learned from the elders how the community outreach effort, Food Co-op and Housing assistance initiatives gave birth to a vital Community Outreach Center, which indelibly impacted many lives and positive outcomes for others. Since having established his own congregation in 2007, Reverend Smith focuses on how the Christian Church can remain relevant and influential in the present age through several efforts. “Holding regular services that are impactful and spirit-filled is just the tip of iceberg in what we are called to do and be if we want to follow the example of Christ,” says the 46-year-old founder of the congregation. Initially established in Northeast Baltimore, the small fellowship began holding services as the Christmas season was unfolding 16 years ago in the Hamilton Elementary/ Middle School. Smith’s home church, St. Paul Baptist Church of Baltimore City was significant in supporting his vision. He believed also that the late Reverend Crawley, Jr.’s legacy inspired his desire to lead a congregation of service to the community. Subsequently, Ezekiel Church and Ministries connected to the United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Inc., an organization through which Smith’s home church, family and luminaries fostered his love for ministry. A strong tenet of Pastor Smith’s vision is that Ezekiel Church and Ministries remains in touch and in tune with God while actively
equipping, empowering, and edifying the Body of Jesus Christ. He sees the “Body of Christ” as all who comprise the church and those who encounter the church. “We are focused, organized and actively present in the community.” According to Smith, this requires the congregation’s complete awareness of being ambassadors of the Triune God - Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Connection to the community is organic with Smith, who matriculated in the public schools of Baltimore, graduating from Patterson High School before attending Morgan State University and completing undergraduate studies in Communications Studies/Public Relations & Promotions. He understands well the great history of Baltimore and the significant contributions of Black Churches and HBCU’s to this community. Smith reflects on the inextricable link of the African American congregations to higher learning and the impactful strides these institutions have made for and with the communities around them. Seeing the present state of Baltimore’s communities – many historic and navigating the loss of populations, strong leadership, and positive examples – Smith feels compelled to lead his congregation to the charge of confronting these challenges through serving others. “Holding church service is one thing, but being of service to others is another,” he projects. Rev. Smith knew that he needed to do more than matriculate with a degree and realize a communications career. He announced the call to his preaching ministry while a junior at Morgan and delivered his initial sermon days after commencement with his B.S. degree. Currently, the Coordinator for Community Pastoral Outreach for LifeBridge Health, Smith spearheads the organization’s health care engagement externally, across race, communities, faith traditions and denominational lines. Inspired by the opportunity to daily connect faith and health, in service to the community informs his passion for the work he executes. In this Continued on page 10 Grace&Glory 9
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role, he develops and teaches classes around health awareness, participates in conferences, health fairs and seminars. As a community advocate for LifeBridge Health, he also combines his pastoral goals with his capacity of developing health ministry initiatives with congregations across several communities to LifeBridge Health. His advanced degree in pastoral studies helped to augment Rev. Smith’s passion for community service. Soon after his Morgan commencement, he entered Duke University Divinity School in Durham, NC., where his academic focus was on youth and young adult ministries, as well as community development. During his tenure at Duke, he was able to unite with a local congregation, Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Apex, and enable its community outreach efforts and garner youth and young adult engagement beyond the church’s walls. “It was meaningful to lead the church on mission events and cultivate partnerships with other congregations and community organizations. These innovative efforts made a difference for people facing formidable life experiences.”
are those that celebrate inclusion and involvement of everyone, hence the Vision: We are building and operating the Lord’s House in love with excellence, TOGETHER! with scriptural references in I Corinthians 3:9-11. Most recently, the church is re-established as Ezekiel Church and Ministries Baptist and meeting in the Turner Station Community of Dundalk, Maryland. Intent on building a vivid presence and connection to the community, Smith has been laser focused on the new location with several initiations. As congregations continue to emerge and re-turn from virtual and hybrid worship experiences, Ezekiel held a Back to Church weekend celebration at the close of summer to welcome members, friends, and prospective new members. “It was like a call to action or a back-toschool initiative,” Smith adds. “The academic season begins at the closing of summer and it’s an ideal time to launch a new rhythm and season for everyone.”
In collaboration with the Turner Station Recreation Council, the church sponsored and facilitated a Saturday Health and Resources Fair to help raise awareness regarding the many health concerns often plaguing our communities, as well as providing user friendly Rev. Smith credits his mother information and guidance around and family for guiding his faith vaccines and season health issues. journey from his beginning. To further embrace the community The younger of two siblings, and wrap them in love, the church he reflects on his mother’s offered its first installation of expectations of service to Ezekiel’s Closet. This no-cost others by her own example Pastor Domanic A. Smith and son, Dillon-Seth A Smith. shopping experience provided of commitment and dedicated the community with free new service as a church missionary and gently used quality clothing for community residents and and lifetime active member in the Women’s Auxiliary of the those outside of the vicinity. Pastor Smith was ecstatic for the United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the tremendous outpouring from vendors, citizens and supporters State of Maryland. Along with other family members, Smith who overwhelmed the congregation with garments, especially participated regularly in church services, events, conferences, coat and accessories for the winter weather. As well, the and fellowship activities. These experiences honed in him the attendance and participation at the inaugural event permitted the importance of strong work ethics and integrity. He saw that those church to serve upwards of 300 patrons and families. who were most devoted to serving others were never seeking adulation, nor anything in return. He is motivated to continue A family man himself, Rev. Smith values his efforts in his his mother’s legacy since her sudden transition nearly a decade congregation, the community, and his career as an opportunity to ago. Mrs. Betty L. Alford Tyson is his greatest luminary and the demonstrate for his son how service to others looks and acts. As standard to which he continues to aspire. a single father of one son, who is now a high school student, he intentionally involves 15-year-old Dillion-Seth in the activities. The product of a nurturing background, Smith values the He believes that preaching is only one way to influence and importance of building strong and meaningful relationships with inspire others. Dillion-Seth gets to work side by side with his others, including family, colleagues, associates, and his beloved dad, learning that his work will match the words often projected congregation. He’s mindful that the most effective ministries in his father’s highly energetic and charismatic sermons. As a 10
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Black man and pastor, Smith knows the urgency of ensuring constructive experiences with his son, who is a high achieving student academically and athletically. He holds his son to a high standard and recognizes that his son’s greatest lessons from his father are found in what he sees him do. Being an outstanding student himself, which afforded him academic scholarship in the historically stellar research institution such as Duke, Rev. Smith is proud that his son has been elected president of his high school class two-years in succession, while remaining an honor student and emphatic athlete. They balance their demanding schedules with consistent communication and an uncompromised home schedule of meals together, community and cultural activities. It’s no surprise to the father that the young Smith immerses himself in books endlessly without any imposition from his dad. Dillon-Seth gets profound joy from pouring through a pile of books assigned for summer reading almost before the summer break gets off to a full start. Rev. Smith is glowingly proud of his son’s accomplishments and shares that he quickly finds ways to help him occupy any gaps in his schedule time by enlisting his support and participation in church projects and community efforts, between extracurricular activities.
In tandem with the traditional church highlights as celebrating Men’s & Women’s Day, the church has launched a Cultural Awareness Ministry. This ministry draws focus on innovative ways to educate and inform members and the community of many events and observances often taken for granted or overlooked, including MLK, Jr Day, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Kwanzaa, the historic Tuner Station Parade, etc. As the new year approaches, Pastor Smith had long since early this year set sights on wanting more for his ministry and those whom he serves. “More in 24” is both aspirational and actual for the ardent pastor who believes Ezekiel is a ministry whose time has come for this community. In celebration of the goals set for 2024 and beyond, the pastor and people have planned a gala luncheon event to kick off the new year. While many will hold traditional Watch Night Services, this congregation will gather for a mid-day meal and fellowship on New Year’s Eve at 1pm at the Rosedale Garden Catering establishment. Following the year-end closing luncheon and challenge to the church’s goals for the new year, pastor and congregation will quickly adopt its tradition of daily prayer. Each January, “United in Prayer” calls the congregation to join virtually in prayer for 31 days in succession at 6 am and 6 pm. Those prayer sessions are guided by Rev. Smith’s scripture centered Prayer Calendar, tailored to address each day each year.
While navigating the rigors Pastor Smith and son, Dillon-Seth A Smith completing the Y Turkey Trout of his family, his professional Charity 5K (Thanksgiving 2023). responsibilities and the demands of ministerial leadership, Rev. Smith remains actively “What better way can we conclude the year and begin another involved in several organizations, managing to give more and than by celebrating the goals we have set to expand ourselves to do more where it is needed. A former chair of the Baltimore others and to engage one another in prayer daily for guidance, City School’s Ethics Panel, he has held several offices in the encouragement and wisdom?” says Pastor Smith. United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Inc., including worship leader and Royal All too often the notion of acquiring more is indicative of selfAmbassadors Lead (Young People’s Department) executive gain and aggrandizement. Instead, through prayerful, insightful secretary and first vice president, Morgan State University and and compassionate leadership the Reverend Domanic A. Smith the Duke University Alumni Association., and as an Overseerhopes the Christian tenets of Hope, Joy, Love, and Peace will be Designate with the Ecumenical Association of Leaders and Pastors where he serves as the general secretary and is a member More tangible for others and the many individuals and families across the community who will cross paths with Ezekiel Church of Kingdom Destiny Fellowship International serving as the and Ministries Baptist. State Overseer of Maryland.
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NEW YEAR'S
Resolutions:
PAY IT FORWARD
LEND A HELPING HAND TO THOSE WHO NEED IT REGISTER AS AN ORGAN, EYE AND TISSUE DONOR
MAKE IT YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION TO SAY YES TO SAVING LIVES AT INFINITELEGACY.ORG OR BY SCANNING THE CODE BELOW
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Dr. Carla DEBNAM
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
to your good health
Taking Care of Yourself We have all been encouraged to take care of ourselves especially the past few years as stress and anxiety has taken its toll. The term self-care has taken on a life of its own with so many options of making sure we are good. Not that we have been putting ourselves on the back burner but the need to take care of ourselves has taken on a new meaning. Our parents and grandparents modeled the work ethic but did not model for us the need to rest, recuperate and rejuvenate ourselves. We often saw them unwind with social groups, church attendance and community service but never on a more personalized level. This lack of role models in some ways has become detrimental to our mental, physical, and emotional health. We live to please others more than we live to please ourselves or God. Some of us have been
Part of self-care is reminding yourself of all you have already accomplished. Begin this month with a gratitude list. You can begin by thinking of the successes you had last year like exercising more, eating healthy, making up your bed or keeping up with your chores. Your list does not have to be deep, or work related. Then add to your list any ways you were The key to healthy self-care able to help others. Starting is to find what works for you alone and with others. We are the year with gratitude and encouragement is good for called to be in community so being with others is beneficial. your mental and emotional health. Being thankful and Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds helpful is something we can us that, “Two are better than one, because they have a good all add to our list of things to do! Overall, taking care return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one of yourself blesses you and can help the other up. But pity everyone connected to you. anyone who falls and has no You will be your best self one to help them up.” (NIV). and be able to give to others We are also encouraged to out of your overflow and not spend time alone meditating when you are depleted and on the word of God, in prayer exhausted. Taking care of and in silence. These spiritual yourself is the best gift you disciplines are self-care for can give not only to others but the soul. to God. neglectful to the point where we have failed to keep up with regular health screening, vaccines or other preventative methods of care. On the other end are those who have become self-indulgent to the point that they block out anything or anyone which sometimes affects their relationships.
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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a woman’s perspective
Made New
January is a Time of New Beginning. weight; it carries the weight and burdens from the previous year. Or it can be a fresh start. But only you can determine what January will be for you. I choose grace, grace to start fresh this year.
Rhoda TURNER I was visiting with some friends. We typically get together every month and at the end of the year for a Christmas Party. At this party we fellowship, eat, and have meaningful conversation. Each year one of the friends asks three questions. • What are we thankful for? • What challenges can we release to God? • What one word are we carrying into the New Year?. The last question always impacts me the most. What is the one word that I’m carrying into the New Year? This year it’s Grace. Grace to know that it’s okay. Grace to know that you couldn’t accomplish everything in the previous year. Grace to move into the New year free. Free from last year’s hurts and pain. January can carry 20
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How am I going to do that you ask? I am releasing every weight to the father. The Bible tells us in Matthew 11:28-29 (AMP), “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.” Not only do I release those things that burden me. I apply His yoke and allow Him to direct me for the new year. I can control certain things and what I can control I do. However, there are things that I can’t control or change. Those are the concerns that I release to our Father and I find rest. As I am resting, I apply His yoke and I allow good to lead me. Not only am I taking grace for me I’m also giving grace to others. I’m not going to allow what others might’ve done intentionally or non-intentionally to hurt me or weigh me down. You too should all have Grace. Grace I give as well as extend it. ”For out of His fullness (abundance) we have all received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift." John1:16 AMPC What one word are you taking into the New Year with you?
Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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Brandie Manigault 22 22 January August January2024 2023 2024 22
DAILY DEVOTIONS
New Day Fresh Start
(Excerpts from NEW DAY FRESH START- by Brandie Manigault) DAY 1
Did you know that where we come from doesn’t matter to God? Our family history may contain drug addicts, prostitutes, felons, dogooders, overachievers, workaholics, Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Our family may look like a melting pot of all things, or we can come from a strong lineage of Jesus lovers, but none of those things matter. When the Lord of all creation chose us, He made a decision based on us individually. He did not qualify us based on what our family looked like or their history. He can and will use us individually in spite of all those things; the good and the bad. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to stop disqualifying yourself based on how you look on paper. Be open and willing to be used by God and let that be the only thing on your resume. Matthew 1:16 (NKJV) And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ.
DAY 2
What’s inside of you is so much more than you could have ever imagined. It’s easy to think that we are pregnant with a dream just to make us happy. We think that burning desire on the inside is just so we can prosper financially. We assume that we were pursuing a particular career path out of obedience to someone in authority. Boy are we wrong! We are pregnant with the possibility to change the world. It goes beyond us and our own houses. It reaches the nations. He has trusted us with a seed, a gift, a dream, and a passion so that His plan would be fulfilled in the earth. Our circumstances may not be ideal, but that should not discourage us. We cannot abort. We must carry until it’s time to push, push when we feel the contractions, and then deliver when the time is right. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to be an agent of change. No matter what it looks like around you, know that you are making a difference. Matthew 1:21 (NKJV) And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save people from their sins.
DAY 3
So now what? We have stepped out in faith and in obedience to the Word of the Lord and have now given birth to our promise. So now what? We are holding in our arms a miracle. No one thought it was possible. We even had doubts of our own at times, but now it’s here… the business we’ve always wanted to start, the book we wanted to write, the degree we studied for. So now what? Now we wait for the supernatural provision of the Lord. He has announced the birth of our baby, and people are headed our way with the supplies needed to propel us forward. He knows that we cannot do it alone. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to sit and be patient. Don’t try to make things happen on your own. Provision is coming. Just wait on it. Matthew 2:11 (NKJV) And when they had come into the house they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
DAY 4
There will always be something about you that makes you stand out in a crowd; your passion; your drive; your ability to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. When God’s hand is on you it will be hard to fit in, and because of that sometimes the Lord will have you in what seems like a foreign land so that you are protected until the appointed time of your reveal. Foreign places can often feel uncomfortable because they are different and unfamiliar, but don’t be discouraged if you feel like you are in a land not your home. You are just being hidden for your safety. The time will come for you to come out of “hiding”, and when it does, you will be in a place that welcomes you and receives you for who you are. Challenge: Today, challenge yourself to thank God for hiding you and keeping you safe. Only He really knows the heart of those who you are surrounded by. Matthew 2:13,16, 22 (NIV) When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee.
DAY 5
Our outward expressions are a reflection of our inward transformation. When we commit to changing our lives, it has to be a complete package. We cannot just change our clothes and think we are new people. We must produce fruit that reflects the inward change. It doesn’t matter how many good things we do as an outward gesture of transformation if we still have a bad attitude, still curse people out or still judge them. Mentioning the name of someone who does good things will not help either. We cannot ride on the coattails of others who have a reputation of good fruit. It’s something we have to do and produce for ourselves. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to keep a watchful eye on your fruit. Is it good fruit or is it rotten? And then adjust things accordingly. Matthew 3:7-10 (MSG) When John realized that a lot of Pharisees and Sadducees were showing up for a baptismal experience because it was becoming the popular thing to do, he exploded: “Brood of snakes! What do you think you’re doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to make any difference? It’s your life that must change, not your skin! And don’t think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as father. Being a descendant of Abraham is neither here nor there. Descendants of Abraham are a dime a dozen. What counts is your life. Is it green and flourishing? Because if it’s deadwood, it goes on the fire. Grace&Glory 23
Min. Carenda
Deonne
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January 2024
monthly manna
What is God Saying for This New Year… Happy New Year! Can you believe we have officially crossed over into 2024? What are you thinking about in this very moment as you read this? Are you thinking about everything that you experienced in 2023; such as the ups and the downs, the struggles, and the successes, or are you thinking about what this new year could bring, such as new possibilities, open doors, new insights, and positive experiences? The new year brings different types of emotions for people. For some it's a very exciting time, and it's all about recalibrating, refocusing, and setting new goals. For others, it brings a lot of anxiety and pressure regarding the unknown as well as carried over frustration you may have had in 2023. No matter the variables that we deal with, it is imperative for us to have clarity on what God would have us to focus on regarding the new year. One of the things God spoke to me regarding 2024 is that this will be the year in which the spirit, will speak. This is the year in which the Holy Spirit will arise, take authority and ownership if we make room and depend upon Him as the counselor. The Holy Spirit as you know was given to us as a gift from God because Jesus asked our Heavenly Father to do so. (see John 14:16-17) Jesus not only speaks of the Holy Spirit being with us forever, but that He is also the spirit of truth. When you think about that, it should give you a sense of comfort. I believe dwelling within us, we house an amazing gift, the best of the best counselor who is with us forever. We can depend upon the Holy Spirit no matter the time, date, or season in our life. He will never misguide, deceive, or mislead us when we allow Him to abide and speak through us. The Holy Spirit is our go to in all things, and by FAITH is the counselor and comforter. When you think of a counselor you think of someone who is trustworthy. Someone who is an expert in their field. You think of someone who can challenge you. Someone who has the ability and skill set to give you guidance. You also think of someone who listens, and actively shares information, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Counselors help to make things clear. They help to make things more manageable in your life. However, most times people only reach out to a counselor during a crisis. Most of us have adapted, as a lifestyle, to be counseled, or to seek counseling, when a life changing event presents itself. At that time, the counselor becomes an option for our sanity and sustainability. When you think of that in the natural that is feasible and pretty accurate, but when we think of it from a spiritual perspective,
God has gifted us the counselor whose purpose goes far beyond just critical circumstances. He abides within us twentyfour hours a day to lead, guide, counsel, and speak through us! He has a permanent address and should be engrafted as a daily lifestyle of the Christian believer. As we allow the Holy Spirit to speak, He not only strengthens our faith, but also strengthens our dependency on the word of God. When the spirit speaks, we are no longer allowing our flesh, emotions, or our cognitive ability to have the last say. We are not allowing man or the outcome of situations to be the reasoning of our decision making regarding our life, family, career, and destiny. Instead, we gravitate to what the Holy Spirit would have us to understand, to know, to comprehend, to act upon, and to discover. When the Holy Spirit speaks, He comes from a place of purity, trust, confidence, and credibility. In this year 2024, I want to challenge all of us to rely totally upon the counselor of truth, which is He the Holy Spirit, to take ownership and speak for us this year. Can you imagine the things we will occupy, accomplish, and have victory over? Can you imagine our territory being enlarged and operating from a level of FAITH we never imagined? Can you imagine how He will expand us and our capacity to do what man says is impossible? I am talking about amazing downloads, strategy and concepts that flesh and blood could never reveal to us. If you allow the Holy Spirit to speak in this year 2024 you will hear feedback from others saying things such as, “How did you know that?” “Who revealed that to you?” “Wow, I can see you are going to another level.” When the Holy Spirit speaks, He will even cause the womb of a barren woman to leap. This is our year for the spirit to speak! Make room! I recently read a quote by Charles Spurgeon that says, “The word of God is like a lion. You don’t have to defend a lion. All you have to do is let the lion loose, and the lion will defend itself.” If we allow the Holy Spirit to speak this year 2024, we will not have to defend the word of God, nor His purpose and destiny for our lives. Take courage, the Holy Spirit, by FAITH, will arise with authority and defend us by the word of God and His unfailing promises towards us! As sure as my name is Carenda, I believe it is so. In Jesus Name… Amen!!! Happy New Year, Min. Carenda Deonne www.carendadeonne.com Grace&Glory 25
Siobhan Saulsbury 26 January January2024 2024 26
money mindset tips
Tip 1 A 2007 Stanford University study revealed that mindsets can impact your outcomes by determining the way you think, feel, and even physiologically respond to some situations. If we're going to change the financial future of generations to come, we first have to cultivate the proper atmosphere within our minds.
Tip 2 Have you ever experienced the soaring delight of payday only to crash down days later (if not the same day!) because bills have pretty much taken the whole check? One way to avoid having "more month than money" is to prioritize spending. Start eliminating debt and avoid further credit purchases. Then you'll be in a better position to hold onto your money! Google "Don't Buy Stuff SNL" for a funny, but unfortunately accurate depiction of the way some people really think.
Tip 3 Sometimes "fear of knowing" can be the first hurdle we have to jump over in order to properly manage our financial lives. It's important to figure out what's going on and use that as the starting point for taking control of our financial future. We have to get in there and figure out what the reality of our situation is, then take steps to do better!
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health matters
Take Care of Yourself in the New Year It's the New Year! Yippie! You made it through 2023. Many individuals take the month of January to engage in periods of self-reflection and selfassessment. We will make resolutions and set goals for the coming year. As you develop your plans for 2024, I encourage you to be intentional and include opportunities to engage in self-care. Self-care is the process of establishing behaviors to improve your overall wellbeing. Consider the multiple situations in which you supported and nurtured others in the past year. Now, consider the time you allocated to care for yourself. Self-care is not synonymous with self-indulgence or being selfish. Self-care means caring for yourself to be healthy, be well, do your job, and help and care for others. Self-care enhances your ability to do everything you need and want to accomplish daily. Psychologists state that self-care lessens the impact of daily stressors and can improve our long-term health. Self-care is vital for building resilience and developing effective coping strategies. When you take steps to care for yourself, you'll be better equipped to support others and live your best life. Experts identify seven pillars of self-care:
Self-care can include healthy eating habits, getting sufficient sleep, exercising, expressing gratitude, spending time in nature, and participating in a hobby. This month, spend time establishing ways to incorporate self-care behaviors into your daily routine. Consider a routine of prayer and meditation, and listen to worship music to set the atmosphere of reflection. Make those doctor's appointments you consistently delay- the dentist, the optometrist, and the podiatrist. Work towards taking at least one flight of stairs at work and parking in a distant parking spot to get in extra steps. Keep comfortable shoes in the car and walk in the mall after work. Assess your diet and eliminate one fatty or sugary food from your meals each week. Set an app on your phone to remind you to go to bed at a reasonable time. Identify an accountability partner to keep you on track. Reassess your progress in March and readjust as necessary. Take steps to consciously improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. Self-care isn't a one-size-fits-all strategy. Your selfcare plan may change as your life changes throughout the year. Take charge of your mental and physical wellbeing now. Don't wait until you've reached your breaking point. The goal of self-care is to take steps each day to ensure that you are getting what you need to deal with the stress and challenges you face daily. Celebrate the New Year with a new attitude about yourself. Let's check Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels back together in March Assistant Professor at Coppin State University and assess your progress.
DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com
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Pastor John
H. Saulsbury, Jr.
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from the pulpit
OPEN DOORS IN 2024 Scripture Text: Rev.3:8 (NIV) Jesus told the church of Philadelphia in Rev.3:8 (NIV), “I know thy works, behold, I have set before thee an “OPEN DOOR” and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.”
The Year of the Open Door will bring restoration and reconciliation. Broken relationships will be mended. Families will be reunited, and unity will prevail. The power of forgiveness will flow healing wounds that seemed irreparable. God’s love will break down barriers and create an
There is an expectancy in the atmosphere of the body of Christ as we near the end of 2023 and anticipate a “FRESH” encounter with the Divine. Those who have become entangled with worldliness and pleasing the flesh will miss what God is about to do amongst those who have remained faithful, unmovable, and steadfast in the faith. 2024 will be “Year of the Open Door.” God will illuminate new pathways in our lives and His blessings will flow abundantly. This open door will be for those who understand their season of transition; leaving the old and walking through the open door that God has sanctioned. Get ready, get ready, get ready! Jesus said, “I know your works.” He knows all about the tests, trials, and tribulations the church has had to endure. In this verse, the word behold means to call attention to something important; fix your eyes upon; set your eyes on Jesus. Why? Something is about to happen, and you can’t afford to miss what God is doing.
atmosphere of harmony and understanding. The Holy Spirit will cause a mighty financial breakthrough in the Lord’s church and amongst His people. The Lord is positioning His people for prosperity in every area of our lives. What the devil meant to destroy us and to hold us back, God says, “I have set before you an Open Door, no man can shut!” Hallelujah! Sisters and Brothers, let us prepare our hearts and align our lives with God’s purposes in this Year of the Open Door. Father, we cry out for a spiritual awakening in our land. Pour out Your Spirit on all flesh and draw people to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Amen and Amen! John H. Saulsbury, Jr. is the Lead Pastor at Overcomers in Christ Ministries in Columbia, SC. Initially answering the call to ministry in 1985, Pastor John has been preaching and teaching the Gospel in homes, churches, and Bible studies from Kentucky to Kuwait. In 2017, he and Patricia, his wife of over 40 years, founded their ministry on prayer and discipleship, sharing the fundamentals of living as "practicing" Believers. Grace&Glory 31
Aaron Spears
. J a k c i r E
The DMV lost one of our musical heroes on October 30, the entire music industry was in utter shock at the sudden death of one DMV’s most noted drummers Aaron Spears. Aaron was a very accomplished drummer and was admired by many in the entertainment industry. While he’s contributed musically to many musical endeavors, many remember him for his long-time tenure as the drummer for the Mega Star Usher Raymond. So many held him in high esteem, not just for his talent, but greatly for the man that he was. He was well-known nationally and internationally. Aaron had the ability to change the atmosphere when he entered any room and certainly musically. His humility, and warm friendly smile always made others feel at ease and comfortable. Aaron was, indeed, a true man of God who exuded the loving Spirit of Christ. If you’ve ever had the opportunity 32
January 2024
to be in his presence, his genuine love and humble spirit was infectious. Our friendship spans back at least two decades and I can truly say he’s remained the same and when he told you he loved you, you truly felt it, and you knew he meant it. We are all still feeling the sting of this major sudden loss but he’s flying high with the King and wearing a well deserved crown.
Maurette Brown Clark
If you didn’t know by now, now ya do! Maurette Brown Clark is back with a brand new album titled “He Loves Me” it is OUT AND AVAILABLE RIGHT NOW! I am loving this project! She lead off with the remake of one of her top singles “I Just Wanna Praise You” that did very well in the Top 10 on Billboard and the album is doing the same. She also did an acoustic version of “Angels” whew! While you’re at it go ahead and grab
News
Gospel & Entertainment James Greer and Company’s single “I Wanna Say Thank You”. Maurette’s the featured vocalist on that single, also a timeless oldie but goody, and to date is one of my personal longtime favorite songs. Needless to say, “Queen Maurette” is back and shows no signs of slowing down, she’s traveling all over doing so many great things, and I’m here for it ALL! She is Baltimore’s Own; one of our own and one of Gospel Music’s greatest melodic voices, whom I also call “the Queen Of Adlibs” she will take you “there” when she drives a song, she definitely carries the GLORY! Go and support, support, support!
Worship Live Tour
Last year this tour came to Baltimore at the Empowerment Temple Church featuring Fred Hammond, Israel Houghton, Todd Dulaney and Baltimore’s Own Anthony Brown and needless to say it was amazing! They ran it back this year, at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall featuring Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, Todd Dulaney, VaShawn Mitchell, as well as Baltimore’s Own Anthony Brown and as they say “every round goes higher and higher, and this year was exemplary of that! I enjoyed every single moment of the night, it got so good, the Holy Spirit took over so much they went totally off script and went into some ole school hand clappin’, foot stomping’ goodness and shifted the entire atmosphere. This tour is consistent in its excellence to deliver. If you’re able to catch it when it comes back do yourself a favor and GO, thank me later!
Travis Malloy
Let’s talk about this guy! Travis Malloy has not only taken by storm his clothing line, and tagline Billions, Millions, Trillions that’s been doing absolutely great! He has a new album out titled “Manifestation” soooo good and it’s available now! Since I’m here let me also send HUGE CONGRATS to Travis for the vocal production on “Keep Pushin’ by Missy Elliot, the remix featured on the soundtrack for the movie “The Color Purple”. This is MAJOR!
Meachun Clarke
This Musician, Singer, Songwriter, Producer & Worship Pastor has dropped an amazing album titled “The Introduction, Live In Orlando”. It is available RIGHT NOW! To watch Meachum direct choirs and implement vocal arrangements that are just amazing, needless to say this project is definitely one for the books, choir music is vital and he’s undoubtedly a contributor of the music that’s not only keeping gospel music alive but also good choir music GO GET IT! “Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com
The Color Purple
I had the opportunity to see this movie, and it was MANIFICENT! They left no stone unturned in the delivery of this historical remake! From the visual to the choreography, Oprah Winfrey & Steven Spielberg did an amazing job! While I’m here, I can NOT neglect to recognize some major people that play key roles in making this project great and they are Baltimore’s Own, the 2X Emmy Award Winning Lawrence “Butchie” Davis as the lead hairstylist, and Rashad Corey, Assistant Costume Designer! This movie has broken all types of records grossing $25 Million in sales its first week and to have these two amazing individuals from our city to play these intricate roles in making this milestone in movie history is nothing short of AMAZING!!!!
Charles Butler & Trinity
Charles Butler has released Charles Butler & Trinity LIVE! This musical aggregation is so vocally problematic, I absolutely love the uniqueness of their sound, they don’t disappoint. This was a project they did Live at Impact One Church and it’s so good! The project features Coco Clemons, Tiya Askia, Josh Copeland, Erykah Edmund, Katondra “Muff”, and produced by Brandon Maclin. Go get it, get it, get it! You’ll thank me later!
Aaron Spears
The Color Purple
Maurette Brown Clark
Meachun Clarke
Charles Butler & Trinity
Travis Malloy
Worship Live Tour Grace&Glory 33
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