Guard Your Heart Magazine September 2021 Issue 9

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE 9

ON FIRE FOR CHRIST LEDINER JOSEPH

GYHM.ORG

Copyright © 2021 Guard Your Heart Magazine.

Guard Your Heart Magazine is a subsidiary company of Guard Your Heart Ministries and Jovenise Benjamin LLC. In no way shape or form can the stories and content in this magazine be reproduced, printed or distributed without the consent of Guard Your Heart Magazine and its founder Jovenise Benjamin.

All rights reserved.

Table of Contents 04

33

from the editor

M2G

05

58

The Birth of a Movement

Money Matters

10

65

Afghanistan

Teen Corner

28

70

Lediner Jospeh

Healthy Minds

from the editor Guard your Heart Magazine existences in order to glorify God and be a positive model to Christians worldwide. This magazine was birth through faith and prayer. It is a Christian magazine and focuses on various topics that needs to be addressed in the Christian community worldwide.

We believe that the word of God is alive and a two edge-sword. As you read each testimony and

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the

article in this magazine it is my hope that you will

Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

be inspired and transformed more into the image

plans to give you hope and a future."

of Jesus Christ. Through this magazine I hope you

Jeremiah 29:11

will make a stand for your Christian views and will live a life of purpose.

If you are creative in any way through poetry, writing or want to share your testimony in this magazine or write on a topic that you are passionate about contact us at gyhmmagzine@gmail.com.

Jovenise Benjamin

Jovenise Benjamin EDITOR IN CHIEF

THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT Guard Your Heart Ministries or GYHM was founded on December 2017 by Jovenise Benjamin. This ministry was first launched as a Facebook page and since then has expanded. GYHM has members all around the world. Besides our main page we have two private Facebook groups: Guard Your Heart Ministries (ladies) and Guard Your Heart Ministries (gentleman). On the main page as well as the private pages we post daily devotionals, advice, quotes and scriptures to inspire others.

As of 2020, GYHM has a website, gyhm.org and has also launched a clothing store on teespring.com.

In 2020, the Lord begun to speak to our founder about launching a magazine, which has been a childhood dream of hers. The purpose of Guard Your Heart Magazine is to empower and inspire others to dream big and pursue their God given dreams. We hope that each story shared will inspire you to overcome the hurdles in your life and pursue what God has laid out in your heart to do.

PHILIPPIANS 4:4

REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS. I WILL SAY IT AGAIN: REJOICE!

PSALM 146:2

WHILE I LIVE WILL I PRAISE THE LORD: I WILL SING PRAISES UNTO MY GOD WHILE I HAVE ANY BEING.

HOW ARE YOU FEELING?

SHOP.

T-SHIRTS. https://teespring.com/stores/guard-your-heart? aid=marketplace&tsmac=marketplace&tsmic=campaign

AFGHANISTAN

25 Prayer Points for Afghanistan 1. Pray for God’s angels to take control of the

14. Pray for the safety of non-Afghan citizens

nation and bring order.

trying to go back to their home nation.

2. Pray for the salvation of those who do not know

15. Pray for the children of Afghanistan. Pray for

Jesus Christ.

their worldview, their beliefs, their childhood and

3. Pray for the comfort, peace and protection of

views on the western world.

those who know Christ.

16. Pray the young girls in Afghanistan will grow

4. Pray for a move of the Holy Spirit that will bring

up valuing themselves.

revival and lasting change.

17. Pray for Afghan parents to value their

5. Pray the women of the nation.

daughters and women and to see them more than

6. Pray for the countries of the world to wisely

property.

handle what is going on in Afghanistan and be

18. Pray for the food source in Afghanistan.

cautious as they open their borders.

19. Pray for political stability in Afghanistan.

7. Pray for the wellbeing of the troops from the

20. Pray for freedom of press in Afghanistan.

nations of the world who are aiding in Afghanistan.

21. Pray the reach of the Taliban will not spread

As well as Afghan troops.

into nearby nations.

8. Pray for the families of those troops to have

22. Pray the financial backing, training and

peace.

resources of the Taliban will dry up and for God to

9. Pray for the leadership in Afghanistan.

deal with the nations who have supplied arms,

10. Pray for the leaders in Afghanistan to honor

technology and other resources to the Taliban.

Christian rights.

23. Pray against violence, systemic discrimination,

11. Pray for the leaders of Afghanistan to honor

genocide and hate crime in Afghanistan.

and respect women and their rights.

24. Pray for the missionaries in Afghanistan.

12. Pray for the wellbeing of Afghan refugees

25. Pray for the citizens of Afghanistan to have an

relocating to new nations.

increase of encounters with Jesus Christ and

13. Pray for wisdom for the leaders of the nations

accept Him as Lord and savior.

around the world who are passing policies related to Afghanistan.

10 VERSES to Mediate on Daily

1 2 3 4 5

John 3:16

Philippians 4:6-7

Isaiah 41:10

Psalm 28:7

Psalm 9:9-10

www.gyhm.org

6 7 8 9 10

Philippians 4:13

Psalm 46:1

John 8:12

John 1:4 Psalm 121:2

John 3:16

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Psalm 28:7

The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him.

Psalm 9:9-10

The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Psalm 46:1

God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.

John 8:12

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

John 1:4

In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.

Psalm 121:2

My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.

God Loves You. JOHN 3:16

JOSEPH

LEDINER Lediner Joseph, is a role model to this generation. He is a lover of the presences of God and His word. He has a mandate to help the youth and be a father to the fatherless. As an adolescence he saw the importance of accepting Jesus Christ as his savior and has never looked back since then. He is the CEO of M2G, an apparel brand that focuses on sharing the gospel through the art of T-Shirts and other merchandise. He is on fire for God, a man after God’s heart and a voice of wisdom.

L E D I N E R

18

When did you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and savior and what event lead up to it?

I accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior when I was at the age of 15. I went to a church with some friends one night for Bible study and I was strongly convicted about the teaching that the guest Pastor was doing on the book of Revelation I believe.

He talked about a series of things and the Lake of Fire.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your walk with Christ?

The biggest challenge I have faced in my walk with Christ is keeping my thoughts pure.

What has been most helpful to you in building and preserving your faith?

The thing that has been most helpful in building my faith is the testimony of others that I hear and how they exercised their faith.

What advice would you gave to young Christians?

The advice I would give to young Christians is to surround themselves with Godly people because doing the gospel by yourself is dangerous.

Do you believe there is a disconnect between the young generation and God and how do you think that can be fixed?

In a way, I do think that there is not a good connection with this young generation and God simply because this generation is exposed to so many things that captivate them and conform themselves a lot to the patterns of this world.

They believe in what society says to be true.

What advice would you gave to someone who thinks going to church services are not worth it?

The advice I would give to someone who doesn’t believe that going to church is worth it, is that the Bible says for us not to give up on meeting with one another in Hebrews 10:25, and to encourage each other. I feel like having fellowship as a church is vital to our spirituality.

The advice I would give for someone who is waiting on the Lord for a spouse is that, they should stay in prayer for signs and wait for the Lord to speak to them about someone. Also I would say to try to be active in church and stay in the word of God for purity.

The advice I would give for someone who is waiting on the Lord for a spouse is that, they should stay in prayer for signs and wait for the Lord to speak to them about someone. Also I would say to try to be active in church and stay in the word of God for purity.

Guard your Heart Ministries, is founded on Biblical principles of purity and prayer. What is something you would like to share with those who are a part of the ministry?

I would like to share that, our purity matters to God. As a body of Christ it is important to seek the Lord in fasting and prayer to live the life of purity that we ought to.

Guard Your Heart Magazine | 30

18

The Bible has a lot to say about friendships, how has the friendships you've established over the course of your life helped you in your walk with Christ?

The friendships I have established over the years have helped me to be more devoted to the Lord and persevere. I understand that it is important to have companions in your walk with God and I love this verse in Proverbs 18:24 that’s says, “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

What are three things someone should consider when choosing their friends?

The three things someone should consider when choosing a friend is…

- Making sure they can help you grow spiritually - Someone who has a relationship with God. - And a person who is able to hold you accountable.

What advice would you gave to Christians who want to grow their prayer lives?

If you want to grow your prayer life as a Christian, you should discipline yourself and set a time to pray. Make time to go to prayer services at your local church if possible.

What is your hope and prayer for the youth?

My hope and prayer for the youth is that there would be more young men who are willing to live for the Lord whole heartedly and that the youth would be faithful to the Lord in word, love, conduct, faith and purity just as the Apostle Paul was saying in scripture.

Tell us about your business and how it came about?

My business… well it was quite the process and I am so thankful to even have it. To start and make things short… I had a friend who would say to me that I should put catch phrases on shirts that I came up with. This was said to me a few years ago and I didn’t take that into initiative until last year. After seeking advice and trying to figure out how to start.

I prayed consistently and asked the Lord to help me get things going and know what to do. Then one day a friend sent me someone’s Instagram page who had a T-shirt business that they just started and I went ahead and asked that person how did they get things going. So, he referred me to the woman who designed his page and T-shirts. This woman is a Christian who is very multi-talented. I contacted her and she was able to create a business page for me and bring my ideas to life. I had no intentions to have an online store but she created one for me on a website called “TeeSpring” which is now known as “SPRING”. My name brand is called “MARRIED TO THE GOSPEL” and my logo is abbreviated “M2G”.

That name brand is something I came up with years ago and I embrace it because I know that I will stay devoted to my Lord and committed because I don’t plan on going back to the worldly lifestyle I once had.

Did you find it difficult to incorporate faith into your business?

I did not find it difficult to incorporate faith in my business. Everything I did to start it, came through faith. I knew that I would make my business Christian-based.

Where can people go to purchase your products?

This is the link to my online store if anyone wishes to shop on it

⬇⬇

https://teespring.com/stores/married-to-the-gospel

Is there anything else you want to add?

There is a lot more I can add. I have a mind full of ideas when it comes to T-shirts. I have a list of things I need to get done for different apparel. I’m looking forward to making a lot of future adjustments to what I have.

Guard Your Heart Magazine | 31

MARRIED TO THE GOSPEL SHOP

AT:

HTTPS://TEESPRING.COM/STORES/MARRIED-TOTHE-GOSPEL

Poetry

GABRIEL UDENSI

THE MAN OF SORROWS Sorrowful unto death Dying a sorrowful death Dying another's death Of His own accord Of which the accused Can never afford Buried with sinners Caged souls in sheol Craving for the Savior To save their souls Empowered by His Spirit Overpowered the evil spirit; Uncaged caged souls From the caves of sheol Triumphant over death Risen from the dead Seen by His Angels Touched by His disciples Ascended to the above Enthroned gloriously to abode Sitted far above all Intercedes for His Saints always And His Name, reigns above all!

THE MYSTERY OF THE SPIRITUAL MAN: Gabriel Udensi

The man is not the body The man is the indwelt spirit Seeking expression via a form Mystical connubial bliss of the body and spirit, births the soul The center of faculty, temple of reasoning The orbit of vast traffic Of spirit entities seeking expression With its subway consciousness As the sepulcher for thought deposits Buried like Lazarus awaiting The call of its master to resurrect From the domain of dry bones Either to act for good or evil Depending on its nature and kind

GUARD YOUR HEART MINISTRIES

www.gyhm.org | 38

THE MYSTERY OF THE SPIRITUAL MAN: Gabriel Udensi

When the form becomes formless Spirit sublimes to Source And the body, to earth Dust to dust, the earth regains its token The soul dematerializes…

Thus, the Great Spirit rewards and settles every debt The mystery of the spiritual man An infinite inexhaustible ocean Of the deep hidden things.

GUARD YOUR HEART MINISTRIES

www.gyhm.org | 39

LOOK TO THE LORD AND HIS STRENGTH; SEEK HIS FACE ALWAYS.

1 Chronicles 16:11

Faith Faith produce hope Faith abides Faith protects Faith comes from God's word Faith produce miracles Faith arise from grace Faith depends on God Faith believes in the impossible Faith without works is dead Faith rejects fear Faith rejects doubt Faith produce endurance Faith produce victory Faith is a shield Faith produce strength Faith produce healing Faith to faith the righteous live Faith does not give ups Faith is perfected by Christ Faith believes in God Faith activates the prophetic Faith produce sonship in Christ

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

Hebrews 11:1 1 Corinthians 13:13 1 Thessalonians 5:8 Romans 10:17 Mark 11:22-24 Ephesians 2:8-9 1 Corinthians 2:5 Hebrews 11:1-13:25 James 2:14-26 James 1:5-8 James 1:5-8 2 Timothy 4:7 1 John 5:4 Ephesians 6:16 1 Corinthians 16:13 Mark 10:52 Romans 1:17 1 Timothy 6:12 Hebrews 12:2 Mark 11:22 Hebrews 11:11 Galatians 3:26

WWW.GYHM.ORG | 41

Hope Hope is found in Christ Hope relies on God Hope believes in the future Hope brings honor Hope in God brings guidance Hope in God produce joy Hope in God produce peace Hope produce patience Hope builds faith Hope abides Hope does not bring shame Hope produce a future Hope produce trust in God Hope strengthens faith Hope believes God's promises Hope brings comfort Hope produce eternal life Hope is steadfast Hope trust God's word Hope deferred is bad Hope does not give up Hope rises from character

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

Psalm 39:7 Psalm 147:11 Proverbs 23:18 Psalm 25:3 Psalm 25:5 Romans 15:13 Romans 15:13 Romans 12:12 Romans 8:24 1 Corinthians 13:13 Romans 5:5 Proverbs 23:18 Psalm 71:5 1 Peter 3:15 Hebrews 6:1 Lamentations 3:24 Titus 3:7 Hebrews 10:23 Psalm 119:114 Proverbs 13:12 Psalm 71:14 Romans 5:3-4

WWW.GYHM.ORG | 42

Love Love covers a multitude of sin Love never ends Love is everlasting Love is selfless Love is patient Love is kind Love does not boast Love is not envious Love is not arrogant Love is not rude Love does not force Love is not irritable Love is not resentful Love rejects wrong doing Love bears all things Love supports Love is hopeful Love endures Love never ends Love is not secretive Love practice self-control Love is spelled G.O.D.

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

1 Peter 4:8 1 Corinthians 13:8 Jeremiah 31:3 Philippians 2:3 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Corinthians 13:5 1 Corinthians 13:5 1 Corinthians 13:5 1 Corinthians 13:5 1 Corinthians 13:5 1 Corinthians 13:7 1 Corinthians 13:7 1 Corinthians 13:7 1 Corinthians 13:7 1 Corinthians 13:8 Proverbs 27:5-6 2 Timothy 1:7 1 John 4:8

WWW.GYHM.ORG | 43

51 Prayer Points to Pray for Your Children for the School Year

by Jovenise Benjamin

1. Pray the hand of the Lord will be upon them so that they may grow closer to God. 2. Pray the hand of the Lord will be upon them so that they will grow in understanding and wisdom.

3. Pray what they are learning will not separate them from their faith and cause them to doubt God. 4. Pray for their learning style so that they may understand what they are learning.

5. Pray for the spirit of excellence to be upon them.

6. Pray the Lord will bless them with a teacher who fears God. 7. Pray their teacher’s agenda or purpose in that child’s life will be a blessing to your child.

8. Pray for them to have favor with their teachers and school officials.

9. Pray they will have a teachable spirit.

10. Pray for their safety as they travel to and from school.

11. Pray for their safety at school. Whether it be from school shootings, bullying and things unknown to you. Ask the Lord to send angels to protect your children.

12. Pray the place they sit in the classroom, bus, playground, cafeteria, etc. will be a source of blessing and not a source of distraction, bullying or negative behavior in their lives because of other students’ behaviors.

13. Pray the grace, mercy and favor of the Lord will be with them.

14. Pray the Lord will protect them from all manners of diseases.

15. Pray they will practice good hygiene and be diligent about protecting themselves from germs.

16. Pray against distractions that would cause them to abandon their faith.

17. Pray against distractions that would cause them to doubt God loves them.

18. Pray against distractions that would cause them to no be able to retain information.

19. Pray they will be on the Honor Roll.

20. Pray they will be safe in the playground or during all Physical Exercise activities.

21. Pray for the wisdom of the Lord to help them stay away from foolish things.

22. Pray for God to protect them from being a victim of "at the wrong place, at the wrong time.”

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

44

23. Pray for God to protect them from jealousy.

44. Pray they will respect their teachers and elders.

24. Pray for God to protect them from witchcraft.

45. Pray they will discover their calling and pursue it.

25. Pray about the food they will eat.

46. Pray the Lord will order their steps and keep them

26. Pray the fear of the Lord will dwell within them

on the straight and narrow path.

and cause them to walk in purity, holiness and

47. Pray for them to study hard and not procrastinate.

righteousness.

48. Pray for them to use their time wisely.

27. Pray the Lord will grant them intelligence to

49. Pray they will balance school, extra curriculum

understand each subject they study.

activities and find time to relax.

28. Pray the Lord will protect them during field trips.

50. Pray they will have a good relationship with you and

29. Pray for them to find Godly friends.

keep you in the loop.

30. Pray the Lord will shield them from forming

51. Pray for the Lord to lead them into the right career

friendships that could derail them from their divine

path.

purpose.

31.Pray they will not be attracted to the wrong crowd.

32. Pray they their hearts and lips be filled with the word of God. 33. Pray they will honor God with their body and will not awaken love before the appropriate time.

34. Pray they will enjoy going to school.

35. Pray for God to protect them during bad weather.

36. Pray for God to use them as salt and light.

37. Pray they will not be conformed to the patterns of the world but will see the treasure in following the ways of God. 38. Pray they will be comfortable in their own skin and love themselves.

39. Pray about the way they treat others.

40. Pray about the way they respond to change.

41. Pray about the way they use technology.

42. Pray about their mindset and that the Lord will help them renew their mind.

43. Pray for God to help them with critical thinking decisions.

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

45

LIPSTICKS MAKEUP BRUSHES EYE SHADOW SOAP

SKIN.

HAIR.

OILS SHAMPOOS CONDITIONERS

MORE. PURSES BOOKS DIGITAL PRINTS

jovenisebenjamin.com

SHOP.

To advertise your business in Guard your Heart Magazine send an email to gyhmmagazine@gmail.com

HEBREWS 11:1

NOW FAITH IS CONFIDENCE IN WHAT WE HOPE FOR AND ASSURANCE ABOUT WHAT WE DO NOT SEE.

90 DAYS OF PRAYER

90 DAYS PRAYER FOR YOUR SPOUSE AND FUTURE SPOUSE.

PRAYER PRAYER PRAYER PRAYER PRAYER PRAYER 90 DAYS OF PRAYER EXTENDED

EBONY DE'QUASIA STEELE

THE 90 DAY PRAYER FOR YOUR SPOUSE WAS FULL OF WISDOM AND GEMS FOR US TO LOOK AT AND EVALUATE.

GUARD YOUR HEART MINISTRIES

INTERVIEW

90 DAYS PRAYER CHALLENGE EBONY DE'QUASIA STEELE

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is WAITING

3. How has Guard your heart Ministries (GYHM)

and patiently waiting on God to do what he

impacted your life?

said he was going to do.

GYHM appeared when I was at my lowest in life. It helped me turn around my life by reading my word and praying specifically for certain things.

1.Tell us about yourself?

My name is Ebony and I’m from a small town in Louisiana.

I’m 29 years old and a mother of a 2 year old son. I teach special Education and will soon branch out as an entrepreneur.

2. How would you describe your walk with Yahweh? What is your testimony?

My walk with God started in 2014 as the result of a broken heart. God had never spoken to me and one night at church he did and the rest is history. My present walk could be stronger but I get in my own way.

4. How has the 90 Days prayer challenge for future and current spouses impacted your life?

The 90 day prayer for your spouse was full of wisdom and gems for us to look at and evaluate. It showed me the beauty in waiting and how God doesn’t leave us but prepares us for what he wants us to have.

5. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned during the 90 Days challenge?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is WAITING and patiently waiting on God to do what he said he was going to do.

GYHM.ORG | 53

GUARD YOUR HEART MINISTRIES

INTERVIEW

6. What changes have you noticed in your life as a result of the 90 Days Challenge?

The changes I’ve noticed is how to wait on God with just me and him and not to rush out of desperation or loneliness.

7. What has stood out to you the most about the prayers during the 90 Days challenge?

What stood out the most was how Ms. Benjamin was so accurate in prayer and scriptures. She touched every place that I needed to be healed and she did a great job of ministering to us.

8. Are these the type of prayers you would normally pray for your future or current spouse?

These are prayers that I’m praying for my future spouse. I’ve been praying for him even more so this year.

9. What advice do you have for those trusting God for a

Wait on God and do not rush into a relationship out of desperation.

spouse?

Continue to trust God with everything you have left. He’s going to send you a man after his own heart and that will love you unconditionally 10. Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would love to call in and pray for spouses next time for the challenge.

GYHM.ORG | 54

"Pray as much as you can for you and your future spouse so your coming together can be a blessing for both of you and for others."

MARISABEL REYES

GUARD YOUR HEART MINISTRIES

INTERVIEW

90 DAYS PRAYER CHALLENGE MARISABEL REYES

My bond with the Lord has been going

I went to a Non-Christian College and I started to

stronger the past three years. I am learning a

question my Christian beliefs, but it was in that place

lot about Him, living for Him, and discovering

I met a Spirit Filled Christian that introduce me an

Him in new ways that have made me fall in

Assembly of God Church where I learned more

love with Him in a greater way than before.

about God, grace and the Holy Spirit. (My previous church didn’t believe in the move of the Holy Spirit, let alone His gifts). My bond with the Lord has been

1.Tell us about yourself?

I am believer in Jesus Christ that lives in Peru. I attend a Spirit Filled Church in my country and I serve as an Usher. I love to serve and help others. I work in Human Resources for more than ten years now. I am single too.

2. How would you describe your walk with Yahweh? What is your testimony?

I was born into a family of non-believers. But God was gracious enough for my parents to choose a Christian School for me, among other things, because it will teach me values. I met the Lord in that school and I gave my life to Him when I was twelve.

going stronger the past three years. I am learning a lot about Him, living for Him, and discovering Him in new ways that have made me fall in love with Him in a greater way than before.

3. How has Guard your heart Ministries (GYHM) impacted your life?

Guard your heart ministry has been a blessing to me.

There is no single ministry in my church. In fact, almost everyone is married by now, except for the younger ones, so it has been good to have the company of fellow single believers and the good leadership that help us focus on the Lord in this time of waiting.

GYHM.ORG | 56

GUARD YOUR HEART MINISTRIES

INTERVIEW

4. How has the 90 Days prayer challenge for future and

Bible says that “Seek first his kingdom and his

current spouses impacted your life?

righteousness, and all these things will be given to you

It has helped me focus to pray about things I haven’t

as well.” In addition “Delight yourself in the Lord, and

considered before about me and my future spouse.

he will give you the desires of your heart.” These verses are important to me.

5. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned during the 90 Days challenge?

10. Is there anything else you would like to add?

That prayer is powerful but more so prayer with a focus

No, I learned a lot seeing your prayers

and a structure to be effective not only for me but for my future spouse.

6. What changes have you noticed in your life as a result of the 90 Days Challenge?

I feel more at peace, knowing that this period of my life is one of preparation, not one to be focusing on what I lack at the moment. My relationship with God has been strengthen.

7. What has stood out to you the most about the prayers during the 90 Days challenge?

That they were very focused and they include things I have not thought about praying before, like praying against bulling and laziness in both of us.

8. Are these the type of prayers you would normally pray for your future or current spouse?

No, I learned a lot seeing your prayers 9. What advice do you have for those trusting God for a spouse?

My advice would be not to focus on what you don’t have at the moment, but focus on Jesus. Enjoy Him, talk to Him and make your relationship with Him as stronger as possible. Pray as much as you can for you and your future spouse so your coming together can be a blessing for both of you and for others. Use this time to heal and develop your character for having a family.

My advice would be not to focus on what you don’t have at the moment, but focus on Jesus. Enjoy Him, talk to Him and make your relationship with Him as stronger as possible.

GYHM.ORG | 57

MONEY MATTERS

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

58

FOUR SCRIPTURES ON DEBT

by Jovenise Benjamin

Romans 13:8 Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.

Proverbs 22:7 The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

Proverbs 22:26 Be not one of those who give pledges, who put up security for debts.

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

59

PROVERBS 13:11

WEALTH GAINED HASTILY WILL DWINDLE, BUT WHOEVER GATHERS LITTLE BY LITTLE WILL INCREASE IT.

HOW TO PAY OFF DEBT

by Jovenise Benjamin

1. Do not acquire new debt while you work on old debt.

2. Use the snowball method. The snowball method involves paying off the smallest debt first prior to paying the largest.

3. Depending on the debt try to refinance so you can lower the interest rate.

4. Create a budget for yourself and stick to it.

5. Find a way to generate more income to tackle your debt. Remember when your income increase you should not increase your living expenses. It will only lead to more debt and headache.

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

61

FAST AND EASY ENERGY SAVING TIPS

1

3

Unplug chargers after charging

Set your AC to Auto

Switch off appliances in stand-by mode

5

2 4

Turn off lights when not necessary

Air dry laundry

2021

Write the Vision

jovenisebenjamin.com Reflecting on the past year and having a plan for the new year is very important. If you want to maximize your time, resources and success in 2021, purchase this 2021 "Write the Vision" digital planner.

TEEN

CORNER

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

65

And he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

Mark 2:27

EXODUS 20:8-11

REMEMBER THE SABBATH DAY, TO KEEP IT HOLY. SIX DAYS YOU SHALL LABOR, AND DO ALL YOUR WORK, BUT THE SEVENTH DAY IS A SABBATH TO THE LORD YOUR GOD. ON IT YOU SHALL NOT DO ANY WORK, YOU, OR YOUR SON, OR YOUR DAUGHTER, YOUR MALE SERVANT, OR YOUR FEMALE SERVANT, OR YOUR LIVESTOCK, OR THE SOJOURNER WHO IS WITHIN YOUR GATES. FOR IN SIX DAYS THE LORD MADE HEAVEN AND EARTH, THE SEA, AND ALL THAT IS IN THEM, AND RESTED ON THE SEVENTH DAY. THEREFORE THE LORD BLESSED THE SABBATH DAY AND MADE IT HOLY.

So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.

Mark 2:28

SABBATH In your youth, you will feel the most energize and capable of conquering the world. Your body is young, you are full of energy and are ready to conquer the world. But, as much as you would like to think you are a superhuman, your body needs rest. It needs a time to relax and recuperate. It is during these times of rest you are able to renew your mind, refocus and allow your body to heal. So as much as you like to go, go and go remember to take a day of rest.

Use that day to not only rest your body and mind, but to also mediate on the word of God and praise the Lord for His goodness.

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE

|

69

HEALTHY MINDS

Keeping your brain healthy

Keeping your brain healthy is not something you should neglect. While environmental factors, stress and trauma can affect our brain and cause mental health issues or diseases. The food we consume plays a major role in the health of our brain. The foods we eat have nutrients or chemicals in them that can aid in good or poor brain function. Like good or poor memory and the overall health of the neurons in our brain that sends signals to various parts of the body. It’s important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in the foods the brain and body needs to function.

GUARD

YOUR

HEART

MAGAZINE|

71

15 Foods Good for your Brain Green, leafy vegetables Fatty Fish Berries Walnuts Peanut and peanut Butter Avocadoes Sunflower Seeds Grapes Whole Grains Beets Turmeric Egg Yokes Dark Chocolate Coconut Oil Celery GUARD

YOUR

HEART

MAGAZINE

|

72

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

1 John 4:18

BE PREPARED AND ACT FAST

01

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.

How to spot a stroke A stroke is a sudden interruption in the supply of blood to the brain.

Patients experiencing an onset of symptoms require immediate professional medical assistance.

confusion, trouble 02 Sudden speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.

trouble 03 Sudden seeing in one or both eyes.

trouble walking, 04 Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.

05

Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

06

Sudden inability to raise both arms simultaneously and keep them up without one arm drifting to the side.

What to do when someone is having a stroke.

If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and do the following simple test:

F—Face: Ask the person to smile.

Does one side of the face droop?

A—Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange?

T—Time: If you see any of these signs, seek medical attention right away.

Your mental health matters

Symptoms of Sadness

Tiredness and sleeping more than the recommended hours.

Anger

Constant Crying

Lack of Energy

Isolation

Depression

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects people from all walks of life. If you have symptoms, please seek help.

Other

Symptoms of Depression

trouble focusing or concentrating unhappiness irritability frustration loss of interest in pleasurable or fun activities sleep issues (too much or too little) craving unhealthy foods anxiety restlessness worrying trouble thinking clearly or making decisions poor performance at work or school dropping out of activities guilt suicidal thoughts or tendencies pain, like headaches or muscle aches drug or alcohol abuse

Your mental health matters

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY Anxiety affects not only our emotional state but also our daily life. You should never feel like you have to suffer in silence. Seek help if you are struggling with symptoms.

Feeling nervous, restless or tense Having trouble sleeping Rapid heart rate when you think about a situation, person or thing

Having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom Feeling weak or tired Constant worry

WORD SEARCH Look for the words listed below.

S E K U L A C T S

S W E R B E H U I

M T T J W N R J L

A H T O R B I A U

T O W H R O S M A

T M C N R E T E P

H A W E R D N A P

E S S A S E M A J

W H P I L L I H P

Christ

Paul

Matthew

Phillip

Peter

Hebrews

Luke

Andrew

James

John

Acts

Thomas

2021 DECLARATIONS No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.

Isaiah 54:17

In the mighty name of Jesus, I declare this is my year to shine. This is the year for me to access the blessings of God. This is the year for the enemy to release my blessings and return all he has stolen. I declare no weapon formed against me or my family will prosper. I declare the angels of the Lord are ordering my steps and making my path straight. I declare peace, joy, clarity, discernment, wisdom, humility and success are my portion. I declare my family members and I will have a sound mind in 2021. By the blood of Christ, I rebuke depression, anxiety and all manners of emotional instability from me and my family.

I declare blessings upon blessing upon me and my loved ones this year. I declare in the city and the countryside we will be blessed. We declare the favor of God is with us and we have favor with men.

By the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit I command and release angels to fight the devil and his agents on my behalf and my loved ones. I employ the angel of God to destroy every plan of the enemy concerning my life and the lives of my family members. I declare we are sealed and protected by the blood of Jesus Christ, who is the author and finisher of our faith. By the blood of Christ, we are covered from untimely death. By the blood of Christ, we are protected from every device and weapon of the enemy and his agents. By the blood of Christ my family and I are protected from witchcraft and workers of divination. I declare my family will serve the Lord and are moving from glory to glory. I declare my family is whole and prosperous. By the blood of Christ no one and nothing can stop our progress. In Jesus name. Amen!

GUARD

YOUR

HEART

MAGAZINE

|

80

WWW.FRAMEMAG.COM | 20

Boots Scarfs Maxi Dresses Sequins

FALL

TRENDS

2021 Faux Leather Bomber Jackets Floral Prints White T-Shirts

GUARD

YOUR

HEART

MAGAZINE

|

81

PHILIPPIANS 3:1

FINALLY, MY BRETHREN, REJOICE IN THE LORD. TO WRITE THE SAME THINGS TO YOU, TO ME INDEED IS NOT GRIEVOUS, BUT FOR YOU IT IS SAFE.

Jesus

Christ 5 Ways Jesus Christ is Divine

Has power over the Law. Ephesians 2:12-15 Has power over sin. Mark 2:5-12 Has power over nature. Matthew 8:26-27 Has power over death. John 11:43-44 Has power over sickness and demons.

Matthew 21:14; Mark 5:12-13

Let all that you do be done in love.

1 CORINTHIANS 16:14

ENIZAGAM

Guard Your Heart If you would like to share a testimony or write an article to be published in Guard Your Heart Magazine contact us at gyhmmagazine@gmail.com

GUARD

YOUR

HEART

MAGAZINE

|

86

BIBLEFACTS

INTERESTING FACTS

01 MARY

There are many women with the name Mary mentioned in the Bible. The name which means bitter and beloved, was a popular name in Biblical times and still remains a popular name today.

02 AUTHORS OF THE BIBLE Over 40 authors contributed to the Bible. The authors’ statuses in life range from being kings, peasants, poets, prophets, philosophers, fishermen, and scholars.

03 PURPLE

The color purple is a rare color. Purple is a sign of royalty, wealth and power. In biblical times only the wealthy and those in positions of power could afford materials with the color purple. Here are some Bible verse that mentions purple: Exodus 28:5; Ezekiel 27:7; Proverbs 31:22; Song of Solomon 3:10; Solomon 7:5; Luke 16:19; Acts 16:14; Revelation 17:4; Revelation 18:12; Revelation 18:16.

I WILL MEDITATE ON YOUR PRECEPTS AND FIX MY EYES ON YOUR WAYS. PSALM 119:15

GYHMMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM

WWW.GYHM.ORG

GUARD

YOUR

HEART

MAGAZINE

|

87

GYHM.ORG

GUARD YOUR HEART MAGAZINE