Grace & Glory Magazine March 2024

Proverbs 31:29-31 (NIV)

29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.”

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

31 Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Celebrating National Women’s History Month 2024

“Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion”

March 2024 on the cover:

Taylor Williams

Miss Cosmos International 2023

Twilli44@gmu.edu

Thefittlifestyle.com

Taylor Williams officialmisscosmos

Cover Story

Pgs 8-11

March is Women’s History Month, and we are delighted to feature Taylor Williams, the First Black American Miss Cosmos International 2023. We talked with Taylor Williams exclusively about her journey in pageantry. Taylor also shared with us her mission is to use her platform, Living a Healthy and Active Lifestyle, to encourage children and families to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Healthy Soul

22 MONTHLY MANNA

Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon

Why I Was Wrong About Lent (by Jennifer Kostick)

28 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Pastor Rhoda Turner

Better Together

36 HEAVEN’S BREAD

Pastor Patricia Saulsbury

Are You For Sale?

26 NEW DAY FRESH START

Brandie Manigault Daily Devotions

38 FROM THE PULPIT

Pastor John Saulsbury

The Lord is With You

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.

COVER PHOTO CREDIT

Jazzy Studios

GRAPHIC ARTIST

Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com

Copyright 2024.

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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.

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.

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"!

Women Matter

March is Women’s History Month and The National Women’s History Month’s theme for 2024 is, “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” Women’s History Month is an annual observance to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. We should recognize that all women have stories of their own. We want to salute these diverse women and encourage them by reminding them that they matter to us, and they matter to God.

Women are some of the hardest working people in our society. I will not even try to list everything that women do (the list would go on and on). With all that women do in their daily lives, sometimes life gets in the way and will cause you to lose sight of what really matters, and we need to stop a minute and remind ourselves that we matter in the scheme of things, even when circumstances and difficulties make it hard to hold on to that fact. That is when we need to feed our faith, hold on to our hope, and be empowered to carry out God’s purpose for our life.

These two words “You Matter” hold so much weight, especially to women who hold the weight of the world on their shoulders. I believe that these two words can mean a few things….one we all have a purpose, we all fit into God’s plan, and God is always working His plan.

God will equip and put in you just what you need to do what He has called you to do, and you will be blown away at what God can do, He can do exceeding abundantly, above all that you can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Of course, it is not always easy, as women we have had our share of challenges and disappointments and at times, we have even wanted to quit…but I am in awe of what God will do to show us that we matter to Him, His plan, and His purpose. This plan was never about us; we are just vessels that God uses to accomplish His will.

No matter where you are at this point in your life, no matter how young or how old, there has always been a purpose and plan for your life that goes hand in hand with God’s will for women of God. I think it is very important that we as women know we matter to God (need I even list all the powerful women who did great and mighty things in the Bible). Even if you must remind yourself every day, “Women matter to God and we fit into His plan”, then do that because God can use you; there is just one

EPPS Jackie

condition and that is to be willing to let God use you, and your willingness to serve so that He gets the glory out of your life.

God is always working His plan because you matter in His plan. I suggest you look back over your life and see how God has been working His plan in your life all along. You will see that your resume’ tells a story, stories of victories and triumphs, stories of God making a way out of no way, stories of healing and deliverance, stories of salvation and God’s love for you. Your story is proof that you do matter to God.

Happy Women’s History Month…Celebrate your Awesomeness!

Grace & Glory Interview - Taylor Williams

G&G: Taylor, welcome to the Grace & Glory Family, we are excited to feature you this month for Women’s History Month. Let’s start with getting to know Taylor Williams. Tell us about yourself. Who is Taylor Williams?

Taylor: Recently I realized that whenever I was asked this question, I would always answer it the same way, by stating my accomplishments. It was after a deep reflection that I now understand that I am more than just what I’ve accomplished in 26 years, but my essence is what lies on the inside. I am a strong, intelligent, creative woman, who is passionate about changing lives and believes in the importance of balancing your physical, nutritional, and mental health. One thing that will always be true about me is that God is the center of my life. I seek to strengthen my relationship daily as it gives me guidance and motivates me to fulfill His purpose for my life. I am proud of what I have accomplished as it is only by God’s grace. I am the First Black American Miss Cosmos International. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Dance in 2019 and my Master’s Degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis in 2020. As a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst candidate I serve as a behavior therapist, conducting in-home therapy with children on the autism spectrum. I am a Certified Group Fitness Instructor, Certified Behavior Change Specialist, Certified Mental Health First Aider for youth, Certified Food Handler and much more....you just have to keep reading.

G&G: Taylor, tell us about your journey of competing in pageants, where did the interest in pageants come from? You have competed in several pageants, correct? Taylor: As a middle school student, I expressed interest in modeling. My mother who is a “make it happen” type of lady found an ad for a pageant and without knowing the intricacies of competition, I decided to give it a try. I soon came to understand that pageantry is more than just wearing a dress on stage but it’s an opportunity to have a platform and raise awareness for a cause that is close to you. First Lady Michelle Obama started her “Let’s Move Initiative,” and it inspired me to create “Living a Healthy and Active Lifestyle.” My goal is to encourage all age groups, especially the youth in my community, to make healthy lifestyle choices. 13 competitions and 12 years later, I have made an impact far beyond what I ever could have imagined. As things are now coming full circle, I am grateful to say that pageantry has opened doors for me as a model. I walked in New York Fashion Week in 2023, walked for the Baltimore Met Gala 2023, graced the cover of Selin Magazine in the Netherlands, modeled for Porsche in collaboration with a Pakistani designer, and been featured in 8 magazines internationally including the BMore

Art Magazine within the past 2 years. I hope to travel internationally whether it be as Miss Cosmos International to share my platform, as a model or to partner with international organizations to expand my mission to a global scale.

G&G: Taylor, tell us about the history of The Cosmos International Pageant. Why did you want to compete in the Miss Cosmos Pageant?

Taylor: The Cosmos International Pageant was founded in 1951 and was rebranded in 2018 by The Crown Garland LLC. The phases of competition include interview, swimsuit, evening gown, and onstage question. After competing for 11 years, I was looking for a system that would highlight the work I have put in outside of competition and I found the Cosmos system. What makes this system unique is that the interview style is a press conference. They give you an opportunity to speak on whatever topic you see fit, then the judges ask you questions only based on what you spoke on. This style gives each contestant the chance to feel in control of the interview process whereas in other systems the judges have sole control, and you may miss the opportunity to share topics that are important to you as a titleholder. Through the Cosmos system I received the Presidents Service Award for my volunteerism in the community. This means everything to a titleholder who is dedicated to making change and is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

G&G: Taylor, how has family impacted your journey as a titleholder and other areas of your life?

Taylor: One of my greatest blessings is having a family that lives life to serve Christ. Watching my parents as Bishop and Pastor of First Abyssinia Baptist Church and seeing my sister as I was growing up, serve not only the church but the community as well as with their lives outside of ministry, inspired me. Seeing their serving spirit prompted me to serve others through volunteering, training others to live healthy lifestyle choices, and in my professional career as a behavior therapist. One thing I will always carry throughout my life is my parents’ reminder to always seek God in everything that I do. We should always seek to bring God glory in everything we do so that is my mission in every area of my life. One transformational moment that I often reflect on is after purchasing the most beautiful gold gown for a national pageant in 2022, I had this moment with God, and I saw myself winning in that gold gown with these golden sparkles floating above my head. My spirit was so overwhelmed that

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Taylor Williams with her parents Bishop Anthony R. Williams, Pastor Kathie Williams, and her sister Nakia Williams

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afterwards I asked my mother to pray over me. When I competed in that pageant, I just knew I was going to be crowned and I was going to see gold flares coming from the stage once I won. To my surprise I didn’t win so I wondered constantly, “Why God? Why did you show me that vision if it wasn’t going to happen?” The following year I competed for the most beautiful silver crown and the title of Miss Cosmos United States, wearing the same gold dress because I just knew it was my time. I left that pageant without seeing a single gold flare and even more confusion because I didn’t win. It wasn’t until I was crowned Miss Cosmos International in Freeport, Bahamas on October 5, 2023, that I realized what those gold sparkles were above my head in my vision. They weren’t flares, but it was the gold crown that God had for me if I just trusted Him. I left that stage feeling like the ultimate golden girl Esther, believing that “who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” I am still discovering what God’s purpose is for me with this title, but I am encouraged by my family daily that God has a great plan for me and in that I can be confident.

G&G: In today’s society, what would you say to those who believe beauty pageants degrade women?

Taylor: I believe the missing piece for those who view pageantry that way is the element of empowerment. Pageantry gives women a voice and a platform to make a difference in the world around them. Many women, like myself, are professionals in our field, have multiple degrees, raise awareness of a cause in their communities and states to bring about change, and also have gifts and talents that may not be highlighted in their everyday lives. Pageantry has not only given me the confidence to speak in a variety of environments but also taught me how to advocate for myself in different spaces throughout my life. Not only does it take a tremendous amount of dedication and preparation before the competition, but it also takes a great deal of confidence to present your best self on stage for several phases of competition in front of judges and an audience.

G&G: Taylor, congratulations on winning the title for Miss Cosmos 2023! Did winning this pageant have a special meaning? What comes along with winning the Miss Cosmos Pageant, are there any special duties with the crown?

Taylor: Thank you and Absolutely! After being

dedicated to the journey for 11 years, doing everything I could to further my platform, experienced tremendous growth and increased confidence, a girl can only wonder “Lord when is it my turn?” My goal has always been to be a national titleholder. I believed it, wrote it down, worked hard towards it but never quite made the mark. It wasn’t until August of 2022 that I just knew it was my time. I made it to the top 2 and I anxiously waited for my name to be called...and it was- but as the first runner up to Miss Cosmos United States 2023. A few weeks following the national pageant I was informed that I had the opportunity to compete in the international pageant. As a goal getter, I did everything in my power to increase my chances of winning the international pageant. I tried to accomplish 6 different things within a month’s time so that I had something new to tell the judges. Would you believe that all 6 of those opportunities fell through. I expressed my heartbreak to a pageant sister of mine from a previous system and she said something that clicked in my spirit which was, “You are already chosen by God no matter what the result of any pageant is. You have accomplished so much at your age and there’s no way the judges don’t notice it.” This reminded me that I was enough with just what I’ve accomplished so far in life and with God, I don’t need anything extra, I just have to believe. So that’s what I did! When they began crowning, I kept repeating to myself “I receive it, I receive it,” because I know that if I ask anything in God’s name, He will do it. I believed it was so before I walked on the stage in the Bahamas that day and God showed me how great He really is! God had greater plans than I ever imagined for myself. Winning this title was not just meaningful because I worked for 12 years to get there but it strengthened my faith. I truly believe that the only difference between the Taylor that competed in August for the national pageant and the one who competed in October for the international pageant is that she gave it up to God. She had to realize that after she had done all she could do, there was nothing left but to trust God to carry it through.

G&G: Taylor, how would you relate to the everyday girl with this title? How would you serve as a role model to aspiring titleholders? Taylor: I think what makes me relatable is my story. I have faced struggles in my health that have greatly impacted my journey, which I believe many people can relate to. When I entered college in 2015, I was diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism, an autoimmune condition

that altered my body from the inside out. I lost everything that I thought was my identity; much of my hair, tremendous amounts of weight in a short period, the retention needed for academics, and the ability to perform as a track and field athlete. Not only did I struggle with physical changes, but my mental health suffered. This was also impacted by the attacks I received from my teammates which ultimately shattered my confidence. I completed my freshman year with a 2.5 GPA. Although this was the most difficult experience of my life, I chose not to give up on my goals of graduating and winning a gold medal. Four years later, I not only reached my goal, but I graduated as the top Division 1 short sprinter in the A10 conference winning 6 gold medals between indoor and outdoor season. Due to my hard work and dedication to my academics I not only made the Dean’s List, but I also had graduate school paid for as a student athlete. What pageantry has taught me over the years is that giving up when things don’t work out the first time, doesn’t give me an opportunity to grow nor does it allow me to ever reach that goal. I have that mindset in every area of life because there’s a definite guarantee that you won’t win, if you don’t try. It took me 12 years to become an international titleholder; 12 years of wondering why, 12 years of hard work, 12 years of growth. So, I would encourage any aspiring titleholders to stay the course because you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

G&G: Taylor, shifting a little I understand another passion for you is health and wellbeing. Tell us about your endeavors with health initiatives?

Taylor: I began raising awareness for my platform “Living a Healthy and Active Lifestyle,” 12 years ago when I started my pageant journey. My mission is to encourage and motivate children and families to make healthy nutritional choices and exercise as part of their daily routine. As a graduate student in 2020, I developed a nutrition curriculum Fueled Up! In 2021, I started my business The Fit T Lifestyle where I serve as a wellness consultant; conducting fitness classes, teaching workshops on my nutrition curriculum and implementing my programs that offer tools for mental health support for teens. The following year I published my first book in my series of books for children called Healthy Heroes Cookbook. My programs are all unique as they incorporate behavior analytic practices to help others make positive behavior modifications.

G&G: Taylor, will using your platform as Miss Cosmos help with your health initiatives to impact your community and make a difference?

Taylor: One of the greatest benefits to being a titleholder is that it offers opportunities to network and partner with different organizations. I love partnering with organizations that have a similar mission as my own because people are stronger together and this can increase the level of impact that we all make. I am partnering with local, national and international organizations to implement my nutrition program, encourage healthy lifestyle choices among faith-based communities, and help people to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors at any phase of life. My goal is to travel and train educators on my nutrition curriculum so that early learners and above can have the tools to Get Fueled, Get Fit and Get Focused.

G&G: Taylor, lastly, what would you say to our young girls who are influenced by social media and struggle with self-image? How would you encourage our young girls in their endeavors to be history makers?

Taylor: I love this question because I mentor teen girls as a Certified Mental Health First Aider for youth and I witness firsthand how social media impacts their self-image. As a result, I developed a positive body image program called “Reflections: Looking Within,” which teaches them to discover their unique qualities, how to affirm themselves using positive self-talk, and strategies to generalize this behavior in their daily lives. During my on-stage question, I had the opportunity to share what I teach young girls in my program which is ‘Perceive, Observe, Declare, Receive.’ Perceive: the things you think of yourself; Observe: what you see when you look in the mirror; Declare: the positive words you speak over yourself; Receive: allowing those words to seep deep within your heart. These are the steps to not only improve self-view but also maintain a high level of confidence throughout life. I would encourage young girls to set big goals. Many of the influential women that we admire today did things that the average person wasn’t willing to do and that is how they made history. It’s never too early to start setting those goals. Ruby Bridges proved that you don’t have to be an adult to change history. You must be willing to go the extra mile, be dedicated to the journey and be the change you want to see in the world.

Ash Wednesday, Feb 14, 2024

Rev. H. Walden Wilson, II Israel Baptist Church of Baltimore City

Wed, Feb 28, 2024

Rev. Rahsaan Armand St. Paul Baptist Church

Wed, Mar 6, 2024

Rev. Marshall F. Prentice Zion Baptist Church

Wed, Feb 21, 2024

Rev. Marcus Jones Fountain Baptist Church

Rev. Gregory B. Perkins St. Paul Community Church

Rev. Andre Nance, Jr. GAC Jr Fellowship, Min. of Music

Wed, Mar 20, 2024

Rev. Mark Wainwright Good Tidings Baptist Church

Rev. Ray A. Cotton Mt. Sinai Baptist Church

Holy Thursday, Mar 28, 2024

Rev. Calvin Keene Memorial Baptist Church

The Lord’s Supper”

1st Word - Rev. Calvin

"Woman, behold thy son". (John 19:26-27)

3rd Word - Rev. Ray A. Cotton

Worship Leader

Rev. Arnold Anthony

GAC Jr Fellowship, Min. of Music

Rev. Andre Nance, Jr.

"Verily I say unto thee, today thou shalt be with me in paradise". (Luke 23:43)

2nd Word - Rev. H. Walden Wilson, II

"My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46)

4th Word - Rev. Rahsaan Armand

"Father, into thou hands, I commend my spirit". (Luke 23:46)

7th Word - Rev. Marshall F. Prentice

"I thirst". (John 19:28)

5th Word - Rev. Gregory B. Perkins

"It is finished". (John 19:30)

6th Word - Rev. Mark Wainwright

"Father, for give them, for they know not what they do". (Luke 23:34)

Keene

Ciera has been waiting for her lifesaving kidney for more than three years. Help end the wait by being an organ, eye and tissue donor.

Dr. Carla

DEBNAM

Life’s A Journey

The challenges and joys of life can come at the most unexpected times and cause us to question ourselves, our choices or our faith. The times of uncertainty and the blessings of life have a way of affecting each of us differently. Sometimes we are prepared for the outcome and other times we find ourselves struggling to maintain normalcy in some areas of our lives.

These highs and lows, joys and pain, planned and unplanned experiences often impact our mental, physical and emotional health. Sometimes dealing with the ups and downs has even pushed us to rethink our priorities and reassess our relationships. Some of us have had tough times because of a health problem, the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, relationship issues and just the stress of daily living.

Most of what we worry about are things that are out of our direct control. We can certainly pray, adjust our habits, make time for family and do other things that help us to cope and enjoy ourselves but we often focus on the negatives. We must

change our mindset when dealing with adversity or experiencing joyful moments. We must begin to integrate the good and bad times and learn from both and remember that life’s a journey.

We have heard or have spoken these words “enjoy the journey”. The journey may come with victories and defeats but we must continue to keep our hope. Learning to appreciate the good times helps when the journey hits rough terrain. Remembering what’s going well will get you through the disappointments, disruptions and discouraging times. Maintaining your joy may seem like a challenge but when you see the positive in spite of the negative your heart will begin to heal from the hurts of the past. This has to become an intentional part of our faith journey.

We are not left alone on life’s journey but have our relationship with Jesus to see us through. Our thoughts must turn toward the word of God when we are overwhelmed. “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and

right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” (Philippians 4:8 NLT). When we shift our thoughts on what God is saying in our situation then we are encouraged and empowered to continue on life’s journey. Not only do we have God with us on our journey but we have a cloud of witnesses that have been through what we are going through. Their testimonies can be the catalyst for our being an overcomer as well.

The journey of life will continue to have hills and valleys, sunshine and rain, joy and pain but learning to enjoy the journey helps to make each day more special. Beginning to look at what we value differently can free us from the expectations of perfection that can lend itself to a negative assessment of life. Remember the old hymn says, “There’s a bright side somewhere, don’t you rest until you find it.” Life’s journey may be filled with swift transitions, unplanned detours, unspeakable joy and glorious moments. Learn to enjoy them all because they are what make life a journey worth living.

Deonne Min. Carenda

I personally started a 40-Day Devotional as we have entered the season of Lent. I know many of us think about what we will give up, but this year I am focusing more on how I can draw even closer to Christ. How I can personally absorb myself in the depth of God’s love towards me. I read this article recently by Jennifer Kostick and found it to be very encouraging. The season of Lent did not deepen for me until I was older. Nevertheless, the more I anticipate this season each year, the meaning of it grows deeper and deeper within my heart. I hope this article blesses you as it did for me.

Min. Carenda Deonne (www.carendadeonne.com)

Why I Was Wrong About Lent

By Jennifer Kostick

Immediately the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness, and He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him.

-Mark 1:12-13

The season on Lent represents the forty days Jesus fasted, prayed, and was tempted before beginning His ministry. As a younger woman I didn’t observe lent. I’m not catholic, and so I lumped Catholicism and lent together as if it had nothing to do with me. I was wrong.

Over the years while studying the word, I learned that the season of Lent, in my life specifically, reflects a refocusing of what Jesus endured for me. Think about it like this: Everything Jesus did, He did for the salvation of mankind. That means the time He spent enduring temptation in the wilderness was for us. It was a stripping away of distractions before enduring a three-year long ministry that would eventually lead Him to the cross, and those who chose to believe Him to repentance and salvation.

Throughout this season of Lent, I’ve chosen to give some things up, and even add certain disciplines into my day-to-day life. I want to be cognizant of what the cross means in a way I’ve never been before. I want these 40 days to draw me toward the Lord in newness.

I don’t know about you, but I often need refocusing. I have to purge distractions and force awareness of what is important. Life gets crazy. All of us have family responsibilities, work duties, and everyday life tasks that make the cross more distant than it should be. Putting the cross back into our line of vision grounds us in His love. It’s not that those

of us who serve Christ allow a gap between us and the cross on purpose, but life and all its obligations sometimes adds a haze to what happened on Calvary. We become so wrapped up in the right now, that we need reminding of what made us whole and able to breathe the air of freedom in the first place.

Maybe you do a better job than I do at staying focused on spiritual disciplines. Maybe you don’t allow the constant struggle of real life to get in your way. But maybe you identify with me and need a time to reawaken your senses by placing the cross front and center in your line of vision. If so, my prayer is that you will take the Lenten season as a time of redirection, making a choice to spend more time remembering what He did, who He is, and what He means to your life.

For me, the point isn’t really about what exactly I give up or what I choose to do differently. It’s about forcing myself to make new habits that remind me of the true gospel story which brings forth the revelation of Christ in my life.

Throughout this season of Lent, may the revelation of who He is and what He’s done come alive to you all over again.

Love,

Jennifer

ManigaultBrandie

DAILY DEVOTIONS

(Excerpts from NEW DAY

DAY 1

There is just something to be said about possessing a trustworthy characteristic. There is something about being able to take someone at their word and them doing the same for us. Our word holds so much value that it will automatically validate or disqualify us in the eyes of others. We should be people whose words mean something when said. When we say we are going to do something, there shouldn’t be a doubt in the minds of others whether or not we will come through with what we said, because we have already weighed the cost before we committed. Others are depending on us to follow through on our commitments.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to protect your reputation by doing what you say you are going to do. Your word is really all you have.

Matthew 5:37

, “All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”

DAY 2

Have you ever been at a loss for words in prayer; you know you need to pray but you don’t know what to pray? Have you ever been so emotionally full that all you have is silence and tears? There are times when you can’t even explain to other people what you are feeling and experiencing in order to have them pray for you. It is just you and the Father. What do you do? You pray like Jesus said to pray: “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Put it in His hands and let Him figure out exactly what is needed in these moments on earth in your situation. He knows what it will take to make your situation better.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to relinquish your need to conjure up the “right” words to pray and use the prewritten script; it is much easier to use His words than to try and make up your own.

Matthew 6:9-10

“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

DAY 3

We have a choice to make. Will we serve God or money, God or success, God or ourselves? It is impossible for there to be a tie for first place in our lives. We will know the winner by who or what gets most of our time, attention, devotion, and loyalty. Will the God who give us money for all of our needs and wants, the One who gives us our gifts and talents to be successful, and the One who created life win; or will it be the things that He has given us? We cannot create, provide, or give life in our own power. So why not serve someone who can and let everything else take second place? When we properly assign the roles in our lives, we will see that it was always a bad matchup. Nothing compares to God, and He deserves first place.

by Brandie Manigault)

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to examine what is getting the majority of your time, energy, and love, and see if that person or thing deserves it. Then adjust your #1 spot accordingly.

Matthew 6:24 (MSG)

“You can’t worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you’ll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can’t worship God and Money both.”

DAY 4

Relationships, like other things, go through seasons. We have people who have been in our lives for years and others who have been around for only a short time. Just like other things in our lives, some relationships need examination and adjusting. There are times when one person will contribute more to the friendship than others based on the season of the relationship, and there are times when it is an equal exchange. We must look at our relationships as a whole based on the fruit they yield. Questions that we must answer honestly with ourselves are, “Is it an asset or an expense? Does it, overall, yield good fruit or bad fruit? Is this relationship toxic to the health of my soul or does it cause me to be better?” When we are honest with ourselves about the people in our lives, it will make it easier to adjust those particular relationships if necessary.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to look beyond how long you’ve known a person, their feelings, and people’s opinions. Evaluate the relationship from an honest place and adjust accordingly.

Matthew 7:20

“Therefore by their fruits you will know them.”

DAY 5

The foundation of any structure is important. It’s what stabilizes, holds things together, and is used to build other things on top of. What we choose to use as the foundation to build our empire on will determine its longevity and viability. The success of our family, businesses, or education cannot be built in our own strength, but must be completely reliant on God’s strength, leaning on His wisdom and not our own understanding. Anything that we do in our own power has the potential to be destroyed at the slightest bit of adversity. It is unstable. It’s time for us to sure up our foundation; submitting each corner, each brick, each nail to the Lord. Let’s not labor in vain. Let’s build so that it lasts. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to build on purpose. Ask Him to evaluate the foundation you built on your own, fortify the parts that are stable just lacking His touch, and give Him permission to redo the areas that are subject to fall at any moment.

Matthew 7:26-27

, “But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

Better Together

Rhoda

TURNER

I was talking to a friend this week. She asked me how I was doing. I was able to share how things were going in my life. I told her that I was truly tired of walking on a tight rope. Things in my life have been just that tight and me trying to balance life has been extremely overwhelming at times. I went on to say to her that I needed some give in my rope. I want to be able to jump with the rope. She interjected or at least have the rope on the ground, so if you lose balance your fall is short. We laughed so hard, and it brought so much relief for me because I needed to share what I was going through with someone who wasn’t going to be judgmental. Someone that was lighthearted enough to laugh. I was able to do that with her.

Being a part of a community is beneficial. When I moved from Wisconsin to Arizona, I was sad. I had to live on my own without my community and that was hard. What helped me was building a community here. Connecting

myself to people that I could be a benefit to as well as them being a benefit to me.

Adulting is hard. I remember telling my siblings when I didn’t like that I couldn’t get my way. “I can’t wait until I get grown, I’m gonna do what I want to do.” Well now I’m grown and if I could turn back the hands of time, I would tell myself to be quiet and enjoy that moment. I often find myself comparing life to a rollercoaster as well. There will be ups and downs, loops and straight ways; sometimes there are deep unexpected drops that may take you completely out of it. But things will get better, and the turn will have to come to an end.

In John10:10 is the enemy’s objective, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” The Father’s objective is to give you life. Since I have life, I’d rather have life surrounding myself with a supportive community. In Wisconsin my community was extensive with a lot of extensions. I thought me moving away that my community would be lost. I was wrong, my community just became greater, stronger, and wider. It took me some time and my thinking had to change, my community wasn’t being uprooted and replanted, it was just extending. The groups of ladies that I have connected with here are great, they’re able to experience the mature Rhoda, I make less mistakes and I calculate my choices better. I’m living life objectively and free. Now I’m glad about the choice to leave one community. The exploration of the new community has been challenging and sometimes lonely, but it helped me mature and develop a deeper relationship with Christ.

So, I challenge you wherever you are in life to establish relationships as uncomfortable for some it may seem. Build a sisterhood Community. A community of women that you can learn from and depend on. Life can be done but it’s much better in a community.

Ericka J.

News Gospel & Entertainment

John P Kee

Whether you’re a church baby or not the name John P Kee is legendary in Gospel Music and beyond and has broken many, many, musical barriers. As he continues to battle unfortunate health circumstances let’s continue to keep his name lifted in prayer. The global outpouring of love and prayers is so deserving for such a vessel.

BMI Trailblazers

This year’s celebration will honor Dorinda ClarkCole and Jonathan McReynolds. The Queen Legend Dorinda Clarke Cole will receive the highest honor “Trailblazer Of Gospel Award” in recognition of her more than 50 year tenure in gospel music. Jonathan McReynolds will be recognized for his amazing impact on the gospel music industry the award. He will be receiving the “BMI Champion Award”. This will be a historic moment for Jonathan because he will be the very first recipient to be presented with this honor at the ceremony. Jonathan literally has made his mark ever since he’s entered the scene and has even spanned beyond gospel music. Other remarkable artists, singers, songwriters, and producers will also be recognized and celebrated during the evenings event.

The One Hallelujah Tour

This tour lineup is simply “amazing” featuring Jekalyn Carr, Erica Campbell, Jonathan McReynolds, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Israel Houghton. It’s coming to a city near you and for the DMV it’s coming to MGM National Harbor Saturday March 9, 2024! This is good!

Jason Nelson

Jason’s new Single “Yahwe” featuring Melvin Crispell III, is out and available RIGHT NOW. The biggest debut of a single I have had to date, this is huge! Don’t have it?! What are you waiting for you too will be singing “Yahwe, Yahwe”. Go download it now!

Brittney Wright

This has been music to my ears! Knowing Brittney is back at it and has dropped a brand-new single has me super excited! One of the greatest voices out of the DMV. Y’all do us all a favor and grab it, download, stream it, do whatever we can to help this single. “Speak” which is the title and y’all she has an incomparable BGV’s unit, STEMS Music Group, doing her background vocals; y’all know it’s a problem and Phillip Hall producing, whew y’all want to own this one! If you don’t have it already GO GRAB IT!

“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!”

Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com

John P Kee

The One Hallelujah Tour

BMI Trailblazers

Jason Nelson

Brittney Wright

Saulsbury Siobhan

Tip 1

Financial freedom sounds nice in theory, but it can seem unattainable. The truth is financial freedom is possible for anyone to achieve. It begins with living within your means, having a true understanding of your basic necessities, and developing a positive outlook toward money. Don’t let your current financial situation get you down. Creating a plan (and sticking to it) can put you on the path to financial freedom!

Tip 2

We will always get more of what we “magnify” in our minds. Don’t stay so focused on the negative that you can’t see what’s ahead. Look forward and see yourself living in abundance and overflow! It’s coming.

Tip 3

Having trouble making or sticking to a detailed budget? Here’s an easy way to begin budgeting... The 50-30-20 rule! Divide your income this waysave 20 percent, spend 30 percent on wants, and use 50 percent for needs. One thing this rule helps with for sure is how you classify wants and needs. Take some time to look at your spending over the last month. Which category does each transaction fall into? What can you switch up to comply with the 50-30-20 rule? Get started today!

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

March is National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Launched in 2003, March is used by several healthcare groups to raise public awareness of the diagnosis, risk factors, and treatment of MS and to assist those with MS in making educated decisions about their healthcare.

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory, autoimmune disorder that affects the body’s peripheral nerves. The specialized myelin covering of the nerves that allow impulses to travel down the nerve to the muscle is destroyed. The immune system attacks the myelin. Without the covering, impulses sporadically move down the nerve, causing the muscles not to contract desired. The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown.

Symptoms of the disorder include numbness and tingling in the extremities. Patients become increasingly weaker and find it difficult to engage in activity. Patients may stumble, experience dizziness, and lack coordination. Double vision, unrelated to other eye disorders, is often an initial symptom of MS.

MS is a chronic disease with periods of exacerbation when symptoms may be prominent and periods of remission when the patient is symptom-free. The disorder affects women more than men. Patients range between 20-40 years of age.

Several celebrities have MS, including talk show host Montel Williams and actresses Teri Garr and Christina Applegate.

The numbness of the hands and feet caused by MS can be profound. I remember a colleague who developed the disorder. They constantly rubbed their hands together and complained about the tingling sensation in their feet. They were diagnosed with

MS when their progressive double vision was not corrected with glasses and was not related to any other neurological disorder.

The diagnosis of MS is based on the presence of symptoms. No specific diagnostic test is used. Healthcare providers use interviewing techniques, physical assessment, and general diagnostic tests to exclude other disorders with similar signs and symptoms.

Many advances have been made in the treatment of MS. Several medications that attack autoimmunity are successful in reducing the symptoms of MS and support remission in patients. Physical therapy is used to build muscle strength and ease some of the symptoms of MS. Patients are advised to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of rest, and avoid stress to improve physical stamina and strength. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disorder. According to guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology, research strongly indicates that oral cannabis extract (OCE) may improve symptoms of muscle spasticity and pain. Individuals with MS often live quality lives with a minimal to moderate presentation of symptoms.

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week is March 10th -16th. Help raise awareness of the disorder by participating in an MS walk or supporting a walker. Share your story on social media if you or a loved one has MS. Your voice matters. Support MS research by donating to the National MS Society.

Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com

Are You For Sale?

Romans 12:2a, “And be not conformed to this world...”

Today, while riding down the street, I saw a little sports car with a big “For Sale” sign on it. I wondered how much the owner was letting it go for. Then I thought, for the right price, someone’s going to get that car. All they need to do is offer what the owner wants, and the car is theirs.

Well, that then made me think of us, how we will sometimes sell out to the enemy for the right price. If he offers us the right thing, that thing that speaks to the lusts in us, some of us just might sell out.

God’s Word clearly tells us that we must not be conformed to this world. We shouldn’t be pressed into the mold, image, or likeness of this world. When we are conformed to this world, we are advertising to the enemy that we are “For Sale” and we’re simply waiting for him to give us his offer. If his offer is right, then we’ll allow him to buy us locks, stock, and barrels.

Today, let’s choose to get rid of our “For Sale” signs and allow the Word of God to transform us by the renewing of our minds. As our minds are renewed by God’s Word, the “For Sale” sign that the enemy previously saw, now reads, “SOLD!” Amen and amen!

Pastor Patricia

from the pulpit

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.

H. Saulsbury, Jr. Pastor John

Joshua 1:9 NIV says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Sometimes the realities of life are so overwhelming that it feels like God has deserted you. It feels like he has packed up and simply left the building, leaving you to struggle with life all by yourself. I know I have felt that way before. Have you ever felt as if God was MIA (missing in action) at a critical moment in your life?

In the stormy moments of life, when your faith is just about gone and running on empty, we discover God’s faithfulness. We discover that God is faithful and worthy of our trust in the good and the challenging times. He will never leave us nor forsake us no matter what we’re going through.

God is with us in the storms of life, in the fiery furnace of life, in sickness and dis-ease, in trouble even in death, the Lord is with us. The enemy works overtime to convince us that God does not care, He’s not with us. What should we do?

Turn to the Word of God and minister to yourself, My God is with me! Isaiah 41:10 tells us, “Fear not, for I am with you; I will strengthen you, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Be not afraid or dismayed, the Lord is with you! Everyday, encourage yourself in the Lord, in the midst of your storms of life, remember God’s promises, His plans and His purpose for your life. The Lord is With You.