February 2023
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SGNScoops exists to promote the gospel by unveiling what is intriguing and real about gospel music. With integrity, we aspire to highlight people who are fulfilling a call to minister and emphasize the music that inspires audiences and glorifies God.
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In 2020, just before the pandemic hit full force, a 42-year-old pastor and dad of eight kids from Meridian Mississippi appeared in his blind audition for the Voice. Months down the road this pastor would experience a change in his life that is exciting and fresh. Winning season 18 of the Voice has been a catapult for Todd Tilghman, who has never pursued a singing career prior to his winning. He did most of his singing in church and almost didn’t pursue the audition for the Voice.
With a stunning voice, he took the nation by surprise, as well as the coaches, and is now releasing a new gospel song. Let’s get to know Todd a bit better.
Cyndi Kay Green: Congratulations! So, let’s start with getting an introduction and a bit of background. You competed on the Voice when the pandemic was just getting started so the production was a bit different. Was it easier to perform without having to be in front of an audience?
Todd Tilghman: I actually found positives and challenges in both scenarios. Any singer/artist draws a certain energy from the audience. So I missed that for sure. But singing worship my whole life did give me a certain comfort while we filmed remotely and it was just me and the camera. I’m pretty accustomed to wailing on some worship when I’m all alone.
CKG: I read that you almost decided against auditioning, would you care to share that experience with our readers?
TT: I felt like I was too old, honestly. And I was pretty convinced they wouldn’t be looking for a guy like me. I felt like it was a waste of time. I was kind of at a place in my life where the last thing I needed was for someone else to make me feel like I wasn’t good enough at something.
CKG: Being a pastor in today’s church is a bit different than it was 3 years ago. Even though the doors have opened, getting back to having church in person seems a bit challenging. What would you say is the biggest challenge?
TT: All my ministry is on the road now. I haven’t pastored for a couple of years. But I’m in a church somewhere almost every Sunday. I’d say the biggest challenge is routine and familiarity. Lots of people grew accustomed to not attending church, so now it’s like forming a new habit for a lot of them, which is hard.
CKG: Your blind performance on the voice turned chairs quickly. What was that like to see the chairs turn?
TT: Honestly, I was so nervous going into that blind audition, that the moment the first chair turned I just lost it. So many people had told me that my blind audition would probably be a blur, but mine wasn’t. I remember every bit of it. The second those first two chairs turned. I knew my life was changing.
CKG: I am sure everyone would like to get some inside scoop on what it’s like to work with Blake Shelton so let’s just get that one covered. Can you give us a bit of insight into how it was having Mr. Shelton coaching you?
TT: Blake was fantastic on the show. But he’s been good to me since the show as well. I really cannot say enough good things about Blake Shelton. Blake is just really laid-back and funny, and lots of fun to work with. His relaxed attitude helped calm my nerves a ton during that time.
CKG: Making it through a round in a singing com-
petition is a big deal. How did you handle the waiting to find out and then knowing you had made it through?
TT: I don’t know if everyone would agree with this, but I considered myself kind of an outlier on the show. I never viewed myself as a front-runner. Every week I just felt like that was probably my week to be eliminated. So I guess I kind of handled it with the realization that every second I spent on the show was a gift, and whenever I went home, that was the right time to go, and the whole thing was a blessing.
CKG: Let’s change over from the music side for a minute and talk about your life as a pastor. When did you know that you were going to be a pastor?
TT: That’s kind of tricky. I spent 20+ years of my life in pastoral ministry. Not all of it was as lead pastor. Believe it or not, early on when I was a youth pastor and a worship pastor, and even associate pastor, I always said I would never be a lead pastor. But in the early 2010s, God just started moving on my heart and so that’s when I knew that I would spend time as a pastor.
CKG: If you don’t mind let’s talk about faith for a second. When it comes to faith and knowing the purpose that God has for us, we tend to think that we will always be doing that one thing. Do you feel that as we experience different things in the world our purpose changes?
TT: I believe that roles can change. I believe that trajectory can change. But I do not believe that our purpose ever changes. I think we grow, and we learn and we change, and shift but always our purpose is to glorify God. We just all do it in different ways.
CKG: From a Pastor’s standpoint, what has had the biggest impact on your relationship with Jesus?
TT: Always what I’ve seen. I love good books, I love good preaching, but the thing that has impacted my relationship with Jesus more than anything is my experience with Him. I’ve just lived through too much and seen too much, I’ve experienced too much to not believe.
CKG: Winning the Voice has definitely brought changes, Was it difficult to step down from being a
Senior Pastor?
TT: Of course. I was raised in the church I pastored. I was there from the time I was 14 years old. Pastoral ministry was all I ever knew. But I felt like giving God an opportunity to do something different, something new, that gave me the chance to practice what I preached to those people all those years. Do the uncomfortable thing. Go the uncharted way. Blaze the trail. Trust God.
CKG: Along with that change, has this made any kind of impact on the daily lives of the family as a whole? The kids and school? Your wife? What does the Tilghman family do for downtime? With 8 kids I am guessing game night is often eventful!
TT: The way we do all of life has changed a lot. We moved from the town we grew up in, relocated to Tennessee. So, our daily lives look a lot different. Our kids were always homeschooled, and they still are. They’ve all been real troopers, especially my wife. For downtime, mostly we just hang out with one another at the house, watching TV. Sometimes we go for a hike or go for a walk down our road. This new chapter has certainly given me a brand new appreciation for all of them, and what we mean to one another.
CKG: Now that you are pursuing a musical career, have all the things you learned and taught as a Pastor been keeping you focused?
TT: I’m gonna say yes, but I’m laughing a little inside. It has given me some very real opportunities to practice what I preached. This season of our lives is 100% faith. Everything we knew, everything we were accustomed to, everything we were familiar with, everything that was comfortable to us, we laid on the altar. I’m trusting a ton in eternal truths these days.
CKG: Your recent single is “Home Wasn’t Built in a Day” can you share where this came from? Is there a story behind this song that resonates with so many people who know the tough times of creating a home?
TT: Home Wasn’t Built in a Day is our story. I wrote this song with Lance Carpenter and Kelli Johnson. It’s a song about family. It’s a song about not despising small beginnings. In those couple of minutes of music, we did the best we could to take you through the journey of our family.
We started out in a one-bedroom apartment over the top of her grandmother's garage. Now it’s been 24 years, several houses, and eight kids later... the days can certainly be long, but the years are far too short.
CKG: Has God ever revealed Himself in a way that you knew there was no question about being in His presence?
TT: Oh man, yes. In 100 different ways. I’ve expeenced God in worship, I’ve experienced God in people, I’ve experienced God in circumstances... I’ve been in so many situations that no one knew, no one, but me and God. And I saw Him come through.
CKG: You sang a variety of genres on the Voice, what performance was your favorite and why? Do you plan on staying in the country genre?
TT: I’d say my favorite performance from The Voice was when I sang Love Me by Collin Raye. My family got to be part of the production, which was really cool. But also, I just love the song. As for genre, that’s kind of funny. I don’t know that I’ve ever neatly stepped into any genre, so I guess it’s hard to stay in one. I just want to take the path that God has for me.
CKG: You grew up in the church so that is where you did most of your singing, who would you say has been the biggest influence on you musically?
TT: I realize this is a disappointing answer, but I really can’t say. So many people, some of them not even musical, have made such a great impact on me. So many different gospel singers, worship leaders, preachers, all genres of music, actually, led me to where I am musically. And I hope I only keep growing.
CKG: The moment you decided to audition, did you ever see yourself where you are now?
TT: Not in a million years. I never dreamed I would ever have a real shot at winning that show, and winning that show has changed my life forever.
CKG: Wrapping up, do you have any new projects you are working on and do you plan on taking part of any tour?
TT: I actually have a brand new gospel song that came out on January 27. It’s called "Dig My Grave" and I’m super excited about it. It’s hard to say whether I tour or not but I sure do travel a lot. It’s usually just me, or me and my guitar player in my truck out on the open road, so I
guess we can call that a tour. Haha.
CKG: When it comes to faith and walking out the purpose of God in your life, what is the one thing that you would like to say as an encouragement to our readers?
TT: Honestly, it’s hard to pick just one thing. But if I have to say, just one thing, I’ll say this: be yourself. Every one of us has a very unique and beautiful light to shine, but we can’t shine it if we don’t know who we are. You don’t have to do things the way you’ve always seen them done. You’re much more likely to see and appreciate the miraculous hand of God in your life if you follow his unique trajectory for you.
CKG: Todd, thank you for your time! Again, congratulations on your win and your new journey! I look forward to listening to more of your music.
Valentine's Day is a special day for people all over the world, a day to celebrate love and affection for others. Love is one of the most powerful emotions, it brings happiness, comfort, and joy to our lives. But despite the power of love, it can sometimes feel as if it is slipping away from us, whether that is through a break-up of a marriage, death of a loved-one or a family argument. Proverbs 3:3-4 says: "Let not love forsake thee, bind it about thy neck; Write it upon the table of thine heart."
These verses remind us of the importance of holding onto love and making it a central part of our lives. They suggest that we should make an effort to keep love close to us, to write it on our hearts, and to never let it go. This message is especially relevant on Valentine's Day, as it encourages us to cherish and value the love we have in our lives, and to never take it for granted. And it reminds us that we are never, ever away from the awesome power of God's love, even when we feel we have distanced ourselves from him.
One way to show your love for your favorite gospel artists is to vote for your favorite Diamond Award nominee. This special event is a celebration of the best and brightest in our southern gospel community, and
it's a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to furthering the gospel through music.
Another event you'll love is the Gospel Music Weekend in Corbin, Kentucky. Join us for a weekend of music, entertainment, and celebration, as we come together to celebrate the love of Christ and good gospel music. With plenty of opportunities for networking, socializing, and making new connections with over thirty artists, Southern Gospel Weekend is an event you won't want to miss! So make plans to join us August 24 - 26, 2023. Call or text 435-757-1147.
As the world celebrates a month of love, Proverbs 3:3-4 reminds us of the importance of holding onto the love we feel for Christ and each other and making it a central part of our lives.
“It’s Your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise, we pour out our praise, It’s Your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you only.” I looked around Van Andel Arena as thousands of people sang these lyrics out with Jeremy Camp at the Winter Jam concert in Grand Rapids, Mi. I stood in awe as I watched so many people with their arms raised with their cell phone lights, singing praises to our Lord. I thought back to how I felt so robbed in my early years of missing out on this beautiful connection to Jesus.
I’m assuming my title caught your eye, and if it did, then it worked. But it’s true. If you think there is only way to worship and you only do it that way because that’s what you are being told, well then, you’re worshipping wrong.
Let’s first look at scripture because, well that’s what we are supposed to live by right? Jeremiah 20:13 says “Sing to the Lord! Give praise to the Lord! He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of the wicked.” 1 Chronicles 16:23 “Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day.”
I could go on and on quoting scripture after scripture, but you catch my drift, right? What do all these verses have in common? They just say to praise Him. They don’t say, “Only sing hymns with
By Carrie Hofmeistera piano and make sure you do not lift your hands and draw attention to yourselves. DO NOT add any drums because that beat will make you want to live for the devil!” NO! It only says to praise Him and guess what? That looks a little different for every single person. When I’m feeling the Holy Spirit, I lift my hands and sing out to Him. But guess what? One of my best friends doesn’t feel comfortable doing that and that’s ok! She prefers to worship more in private and I love that about her. We have different personalities and one of the things I love most about God is that He speaks to all of us on our levels.
I grew up in a pretty legalistic environment where I was taught there was only one way to do things. Funny how I look back and realize that, that one way wasn’t God’s way. It was man’s way, which, I’m pretty sure God tells us not to do. Now, I am not going to go into detail about how I was raised because one, I don’t have enough words for this article to do that, and two, this article isn’t about that.
A couple months ago, I attended a We Are Messengers concert with my stepdaughter and a few of my friends. For those of you that are scratching your head asking, “What is a we are messengers?” It is a Christian Contemporary band. And for those of you that I know I’m losing, stay with
me. The first opener’s name was David Leonard. To be honest, I had never heard of him before, but I always enjoy discovering new artists. His set was acoustic, and I recognized a couple of songs. When he got to his last song, “Great Are You Lord”, I was so excited because we sing that at our church quite often. I had no idea that he wrote that song. If you haven’t heard it before, I encourage you to go take a listen.
After the show, David Leonard was walking out into the lobby and we got to talk to him and get a picture with him. He was very kind and personable and more importantly, very humble. It was a great night! At one point of the show, I looked over and saw my stepdaughter worshipping for the first time ever. She raised her hands and was just pouring her heart out to God in song. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen and fought back tears as I had to act like it wasn’t a big deal. You know teenagers these days.
After I got home from the concert over the next few days, I just kept thinking about the overwhelming feeling of being in a room full of people just praising our Lord. So, when I asked God what He wanted me to write about next, I knew. Everybody worships differently.
Now I’m not saying that if you do worship God with just hymns and a piano, that you’re wrong. I’m saying that there isn’t only one way to do it! I got the honor to later interview David Leonard and what worship means to him.
The day before I interviewed David, I put a Facebook post out asking people if they had the chance to interview a well-known Christian Artist, what would they ask them? These are the questions that I got. “Can you name the 12 Disciples? What did you read in your Bible this morning? Tell me about your walk with God, just how sweet is it really? Do you know for sure you’re going to Heaven? Tell me about the last person you told about Jesus. Does your heart belong to the Lord?”
To some of you they may seem harmless, but I knew exactly what the true intentions were. They were assumptions that because it was a contemporary artist, that his heart was given to the devil. This gave me more motive to want to write this article. We are all human. We all have different interests and beliefs. I am the only one like me in this world which
my husband would say is a good thing because this world couldn’t handle anymore of me. I have different music interest than a lot of you that are reading this article now, so what reaches you may not reach me. You know what the good news is? God made us with all different talents to be able to reach every type of person!
I tell you what, after speaking to David, I can tell you he has a heart for the Lord and even made me feel like I needed to be more humble. I asked him what he would say to people who judge him just for what his professions is. This is what he said. “It’s good to question people, but I would push them to get to know me.”
We get so focused on what worship should look like that we miss out on what worship can feel like. Worship to me is feeling the Holy Spirit through me when I am singing a song that just talks about his goodness. Worship to David looks different every day. Whether it’s family or time with the Lord or music, it’s always different.
David has been in Nashville for 17 years. He is a songwriter who has written several well-known worship songs like, “Great Are You Lord”, “Christ Be all Around”, “All The Poor and Powerless”, and “Good Lord”. He has performed with NEEDTOBREATHE, became one-half of the duo “All Sons and Daugh-
ters”, and is now working as a solo artist. He is a husband and a father and just in the 20 minutes I got to talk with him, he is somebody who loves the Lord.
I asked him when was the moment that he felt called into this profession, and I love his answer. He told me that he feels that we tend to focus too much on “this calling stuff” when we just need to focus on day to day. Tomorrow he could be called to be a trash man, which I hope not, because he’s pretty good at this music thing. He said, “I’m still surprised I’m doing this. I have been in Nashville for 17 years, grew up in a Christian home, didn’t really play instruments.” And now look where He is.
One of my absolute favorite songs ever written is, “All Things New”. It is my testimony song because my husband and I haven’t been able to write anything better. It is a phenomenal ballad about how God takes the most broken things and makes them new. It was written by David with a member from the band Big Daddy Weave. The song was actually written for Michael Weaver’s dad, who was sick at the time, but David said that song became so much bigger than that. It got him through some tough moments as well and is a song that I believe every single person can relate to. I encourage all of you to go take a listen after you are done reading this article.
I asked David for an aha moment in his career. A time when it just hit him. That he knew right in that moment that that’s why he is doing what he is doing. He said it was just a few months ago when he was on tour with Mac Powell. There was a night when
Mac opened the front as an alter and invited people to come if they felt led. And let me tell you, people just flooded the front. He said it was such a beautiful moment and, in that moment, he said “This is it. This is why I am doing what I am doing.”
He did make me feel a lot better when He said there are even nights that he questions if people are even touched by his music, and boy, have my husband and I felt that. You can’t read the crowd. There’s no response. It makes you want to run off the stage and hide and never sing again. Knowing that somebody as successful as David still feels that, shows he’s humble. He’s human. He’s not doing it for the fame or the money, he’s doing it for the Lord.
I want to encourage any of you that maybe have a hard time stepping out of your comfort zone. Maybe you only listen to one type of music. Maybe you are set in your ways. Step out. Try it. Listen to the words and look past the outward appearance. Maybe the artist has a lot of piercings or tattoos and you automatically want to tune them out. Look past that and look at the heart. God is using them and reaching people that you and I could never reach. You meet some of the most unique and amazing people by simply just getting to know them.
If you are looking for a night out of worship, go to davidleonardmusic.com and check him out at a show near you! And if you do, tell him your there because of this article. I promise you will leave that show, blessed and refreshed, and remember, everybody worships differently.
“In which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience” Ephesians 2:2
Satan has many titles but Prince of the Power of the Air explains how technology can be manipulated as Lucifer’s attempt to communicate simultaneously as God our Father does using the Holy Spirit. For the Anti-Christ to come and the world to become under his control he will need a tool to reach all areas of the world. He will want to control the messages and messengers, thus censorship will be needed.
It appears global censorship is returning. After nearly ninety years it appears we are about to see an attempt for world wide censorship of all media. This international research project “Public Spaces Incubator” aims to develop and test innovative building blocks for open and respectful online discussions. Global Fact Checkers for aka Hate Speech or Disinformation will be suppressed. This will be a great tool for the Anti-Christ and Prince and Power of the air.
Did you know during the 1930s, the German statecontrolled media colluded with western media
outlets. The biggest was the Associated Press. In return for access to Germany, The Associated Press agreed to not publish anything “calculated to weaken the strength of the Reich abroad or at home”. The Associated Press news agency entered a formal cooperation with the Hitler regime, supplying American newspapers with material directly produced and selected by the Nazi propaganda ministry. In Germany all radios were confiscated from minority groups so they could only read the news Hitler provided and not hear any attempts of media truth made on the radio.
The Associated Press gave control of its output by signing up to the so-called Schriftleitergesetz (editor’s law), promising not to publish any material “calculated to weaken the strength of the Reich abroad or at home”. This law required Associated Press to hire reporters who also worked for the Nazi party’s propaganda division. One of the four photographers employed by the Associated Press in the 1930s, Franz Roth, was a member of the SS paramilitary unit’s propaganda division, whose photographs were personally chosen by Hitler.
How can they do this again you may ask? “In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light
of the gospel of the glory of Christ,who is the image of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:4
Like in WW2 it all starts with Germany, a statesponsored news outlet ZDF that is working with state-sponsored news outlets. Germany will use “PUBLIC BROADCASTERS” from three additional countries; Canada (CBC), Switzerland (SRG SSR) and Belgium (RTBF). Germany’s ZDF Director Dr. Norbert Himmler: Our common goal is to counter the increase in hatred, violence, propaganda and defamation on social media with a public service alternative.” Without a Biblical moral compass, what will be their measuring method of propaganda, defamation or hate? The four broadcasting companies are conducting the research project in cooperation with the non-profit organization “New_ Public”, which has extensive experience and expertise in non-profit-oriented digital communication.
Paul explained the Prince and Power of the air has power. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
Jesus warns us that some see Satan as their father, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44
Peter also warns us to be careful, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
As we are witnessing the Prince and Power of the air, Lucifer, making technology advancements we must not fear. Be sober minded, don’t allow yourself to be fooled by the ways of the world. As a pastor I am asked how to keep our minds free from the devils attempts to control our mental focus? My response is to be a Hebrews 12 believer.
Stay strong, pray long, Rev. Macil Duncan The Patriot Pastor
There have been many headlines, videos, storytelling, and accusation lately, pointing fingers at leaders who have stumbled. I can think of several public figures, prophets, and teachers who have taken a lashing and a judgment call from self-righteous onlookers. I know people in leadership, in ministry, and in community being judged, criticized, slandered, questioned, mocked, and more.
The list is long, and with no special person in mind, I thought it was a good time to pause. It was a recent Sabbath Day when I was spending time with the Lord, and I brought several old issues to Him pertaining to injustice and checking my own heart for unforgiveness. I repented. I humbled myself lower to reflect and release even more. I always hope to get to the root, but sometimes I discover a lingering thorn. It is so good to release it to the Lord.
And then, very soon after, I heard a testimony of a leading prophet, his known public downfall for seemingly misaligned theologies, and more recently, his vulnerable testimony and confession to other religious leaders, sharing his repentant heart. I was so impressed by this.
We are all vulnerable to pride, money, shiny objects, success, and things of the world; anyone can fall, so who are we to so quickly judge others? Here was a leader who was willing to be vulnerable publicly, just as publicly as when his puffed-up sin had been on display, to return to the Lord and spare others his recent journey and subsequent consequences. We must do a heart check constantly, come before the Lord daily, and keep our eyes on Jesus. There is no God but the One true God. He is the Great I AM.
I personally am grateful that I had this testimony to remind me of whatever may lie ahead for me. I was really moved to hear a grown man so willing to be vulnerable, recognize his shortcoming, and confess it
to others. To me, this is spiritual maturity. Sin stings. Humility restores.
The thing is, I must admit, I had formed an opinion of this high-profile leader based on “evidence” I had seen reported, made a decision, and marked him off the list of credible leaders and teachers.
But then, I was speaking with a friend who shared new information on this leader. My view was changed, my heart was pricked, the lightbulb came on, and an interesting dialogue continued.
I was speaking to my friend Dana (last name left out intentionally), and she exchanged some very wise words about what we had just heard in this new testimony. It is easy to hear a bad report, make an instant decision, and then let that decision be a final verdict about the person and situation.
“Our judgment shouldn’t be without end,” Dana said.
How poignant. We cannot just make up our minds, judge, and be done because first, we are not judges. Jesus is the just judge, but also because people have heart changes, revelations from the Holy Spirit; people change, and we are judging them from old stories. We don’t know their hearts. And even if we think we did, that is not our position to take. We are called to LOVE and let Jesus do the judging. We are called to correct in love, to admonish in love, to pray for them in love, that true repentance might come quickly.
We are ever evolving – being sanctified. As “watchers” of one another, we need to extend grace and mercy, not judgment and verdict, especially one that is a lifelong sentence.
As Dana said to me, “shuck off the (judges) robe and put down the gavel.” Amen. After all, we are not to be
judge and jury to our brothers and sisters.
It can be a more challenging concept when we have been hurt by others or seen them perform from the pulpit or their ministry umbrellas and yet “we know stuff.” But we are not called to point a finger and judge the person.
Now, I am not condoning blatant sin, we are to call things that is far off from the truth and hold one another accountable. We are to stand for truth and expect other believers to be accountable. It’s that they are accountable to the King, not so much to us. I believe we are to walk away when the sin is obvious so that the yeast doesn’t spoil the batch and we are not sitting amongst sinners and giving a wrong impression of our agreement to others looking in, yes, but with grace. We are not to point fingers, publicly humiliate, gossip or slander in our detachment. We are to gently correct, bring others from the church where possible, at least gather two or more to pray for public figures, and bring our individual concerns to God, in prayer, praying for their hearts and correction in the process.
Dana made another interesting point in our conversation, based on a sermon she once heard, when Jesus told his disciples they could either forgive or (basically), retain the sin, what He was expressing by example is that when we stand in unforgiveness, we are standing between the sinner and the Lord. Basically, you are “retaining the sin”, blocking the forgiveness, standing in judgment before the sinner, and between the One who can forgive and free the sinner and bring justice. Jesus needs us to step out of the way to do a work in them. We are blocking the healing process for all parties. See, when we step aside, when we forgive, when we let go of the offense and our right to judge, Jesus can step in and heal and love the person to repentance and deliver freedom in their lives. The biggest gift we can give is forgiveness because it frees the person to receive the healing of their Father. Yes, judgment, discipline, right correction is hopefully all part of that process, but that is the Lord’s duty.
Who are you still holding captive? The word says we are to forgive 70 times seven. That is such a challenge when we are carrying the shard of pain and offense in our heart, and we are the ones who are offended and wronged or the ones that see so
clearly the sin and the offense. But you have heard the adage, holding unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die; it only hurts the one holding on to it!
I do believe that is why long-term health issues are so prevalent in our society.Unforgiveness stays in our body and as we worry and harbor ill feelings, holding on to deep unforgiveness, it weighs our minds and our bodies down. I have read that the crippling disease of arthritis and even cancer is impacted by unforgiveness. One of my author clients shared a story in her book that the Lord healed her from cancer, but only after bringing to mind the name of who she needed to forgive and her swift obedience to confront the person and offer forgiveness! God is in the business of healing. He asks us to offer forgiveness to others. Love one another. Do not judge one another. Forgive as I have forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32).
We should strive to free everyone in our past and along our path, whether public figures, leaders, personal acquaintances, friends, or family, for our own health, for their health, and because Jesus has forgiven us of so much. We owe our lives, our freedom, and our salvation to Him. He asks us only to forgive and love one another as an act of love for Him. Who are you still holding captive? It’s time to set the captives free.
-Learn more about Author Jacqueline Arnold at sweetlifeusa.com/media
As Abundant TV continues its upward trend reaching a growing number of viewers each day, we are seeing ministries of different types jump on board as part of the Abundant TV family.
This past month we have added The Rob and Kristen Show which originally airs each Tuesday night at 8:00 p.m. and then re-airs on Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m. This show focuses on fun and interesting news items, interviews, and Bible study with a life application. Host of the show, Rob Patz, had this to say: “We made pizza for National Pizza Day – it was gouda! You’ll understand that once you watch the show. We’ve talked about our favorite vacation spots. We’ve talked about some things in the news. It’s always fun for us, and we hope that you tune in and that it brings a bright spot to your day. We have a few surprises coming up in the next few months!”
On Tuesday nights after The Rob and Kristen Show, we are spotlighting a new show all about strengthening your marriage called Outrageously Happy Marriage with Joel and Kathy. Fun and practical, this show focuses on fixing some common problems that come up in marriage relationships.
Also launching on the network this past month is The Rob Patz Project where Rob interviews Christians in sports, entertainment, and politics.
Three of our most popular shows continue to be John Works Too Much (home improvement), The Hope Reports (news and interviews), and Joe Chambers and Friends (music).
“We were thrilled to be in Arkansas in Febru-
ary to be with Joe Chambers and Friends for part of a new episode which will be airing soon on Abundant TV. We enjoyed our time immensely and look forward to seeing continued growth in the music ministries of Joe Chambers and Friends,” states Kristen Stanton, Co-Founder of Abundant TV. She adds, “We love seeing ministries of all types flourish. We want to help in any way we can. Joe and his family and friends in Arkansas have been a part of our Abundant TV family since we launched, and we look forward to growing with them.”
We are super excited to launch our first Abundant Conference in Perrysburg, Ohio, on September 16, 2023. If you’d like more information on this free event, please call or text Rob at 425-754-1147.
If you are a pastor, singer, or speaker and are interested in being a part of the Abundant network, or are interested in having Rob and Kristen at your event, please call or text Rob at 425-754-1147, or email sales@abundanttv. com.
nis that when we stand in unforgiveness, we are standing between the sinner and the Lord. Basically, you are “retaining the sin”, blocking the forgiveness, standing in judgment before the sinner, and between the One who can forgive and free the sinner and bring justice. Jesus needs us to step out of the way to do a work in them. We are blocking the healing process for all parties. See, when we step aside, when we forgive, when we let go of the offense and our right to judge, Jesus can step in and heal and love the person to repentance and deliver freedom in their lives. The biggest gift we can give is forgiveness because it frees the person to receive the healing of their Father.
In the late sixties and early seventies, Harold Montgomery was a staple name in southern gospel music in the Carolinas. He sang tenor with the Revelaires, sharing some of the best quartet gospel music.
The Revelaires were: lead - Charles Surratt (Singing Americans), bass - Bill Funderburke (noted minister, songwriter and father to Danny Funderburke), baritone - John Barbee and Allen Hunter (Harvesters) and tenorHugh Montgomery. Playing piano was Rhonda Montgomery. Their energy vibrated with traditional quartet gospel
In 1971 a new family of music ministry was born in Monroe, North Carolina. Harold and Rhonda added the vocals of daughters, Robin and Lisa, forming a family group with a desire to share the redeeming news of the Gospel and a passion for Southern Gospel music.
In those early years, the group traveled the east coast. They were weekend warriors that carried the gospel music torch while being featured on local radio stations, in churches and concert halls. The family were regulars on the Couriers television program covering the American northeast. The Montgomery
Family proclaimed this timeless message of encouragement from Canada to Florida through heartfelt songs wrapped in smooth family harmonies.
What started as a group of parents with two young daughters has changed. Life changes happened with the girls growing up, marrying and starting families of their own. The group today consists of the two sisters, Robin Montgomery Stegall, Lisa Montgomery Simpson, and Lisa’s husband, Jeff. They are “carrying on” the family singing traditions with a heartfelt passion.
Robin says, “We have remained true to the core vision when we started the family group. Our love of southern gospel music came from what Mom and Dad sang when we were very young. We sang in church growing up. We went to singings. Southern gospel music was, and is, part of us. We want to carry on the tradition of sharing this music and its life changing message.”
Their friendships have remained solid over these years. Renowned music producer Roni Goss (Goss Brothers and Nancy Harmon) produced their new project "Homecoming"; while Roger Talley produced an earlier proj-
ject. The Couriers continue to encourage their music outreach. Friendships with the Hoppers, Speers, Talleys and multiple other artists have etched the Montgomery’s style in rich classic family harmonies with a simple but pure message of hope.
Recently Robin met up with Roni Goss in Atlanta with the groundwork being laid for another dynamic project to be recorded this summer. A fall 2023 release is planned. She exclaims, ‘What a talent Roni is. His knack for finding just the right songs, the ear for the perfect arrangements and most off all knowing how it fits the Montgomery’s is exceptional.”
The Montgomery’s core singing ministry has always been in the church. Their goal is to provide southern gospel music, strong lyrics, and testimony that will bring people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. To the Christian, it’s their desire that each person will leave the concert with a closer walk with the lord. For everyone to leave the event knowing and saying GOD IS GOOD!
When COVID upended the world, the Montgomery’s took to social media. Their “Tuesday Tunes” social media editions became a staple for gospel music lovers and remains so today. Requested songs, “off the cuff” southern gospel songs, hymns and just plain fun make for a special time with the family every Tuesday. From time to time you may even get to hear Mom (Ronda Montgomery Reel) as she joins in. Her piano artistry is the perfect touch to any gospel song and Tuesday Tunes.
The Montgomery’s are at home in auditoriums as well as outdoor events, for gospel sings as well as civic functions, and church socials on the east
coast. They have also had the opportunity to do several mission trips into Canada. Extending their music footprint, the Montgomery’s have recorded multiple audio projects and are featured on numerous gospel television programs.
The Montgomery’s works to set the mood for worship, whether it is leading up to a message by a speaker, and certainly try to lead all their programs to a time of reflection and invitation even in a concert setting. You will laugh, clap your hands, sing along and be encouraged when at a Montgomery’s singing. Their concerts utilize a mix of music tracks, as well as some singing around the piano or a cappella. The program will include some of today’s current favorite gospel songs, original songs as well as some of the classics in hopes that something will appeal and inspire every generation attending.
Proverbs 22:6 teaches to bring up a child in the way they should go and when older they will not depart from it. The Montgomery’s are living proof of this biblical foundation. Their lifetime music commitment remains steadfast with southern gospel music. Their message is timeless yet as fresh as the morning sunrise. As you get to know the Montgomery’s again for the first time, you will understand why they are loved and crowd favorites. The Montgomery’s are truly carrying on the family tradition.
The Montgomery’s are currently working on their new recording with Classic Artists Music Group. For more artist information visit ClassicArtistsRecordsllc.net or TheMontgomeryTrio.com or call 919-744-1747.
For as long as I can remember my maternal grandmother testified often about the first time she ever prayed. It was around 1935 at a local park in downtown Minneapolis. She had two little daughters at that time. (Aunt Dolores was fifteen months older than my mom. They look to be around three and four-years-old in the black and white picture provided).
Grandma was in an abusive marriage. Her husband was in and out of jail. She had endured repeated episodes of domestic violence and was at a crossroads. She took her girls to Elliott Park to wade in the free community wading pool that was a few blocks from their apartment, and hoped to clear her head and figure things out.
Grandma had never attended a church service or prayed before in her life, but she was desperate and decided to give God a chance to prove if He was real or not. She prayed this simple prayer, “God, if You’re there, help me.”
Immediately, she sensed God heard her, and she was shocked to hear Him whisper in her soul, “Take your daughters and move back to Iowa near your family. You’ll find what you’re looking for there.”
By Dixie PhillipsGrandma did just that. And in the next few years she had a personal encounter with Jesus that changed her life, eternal destiny, and our family forever.
More than sixty years later, my husband and I couldn’t believe our oldest daughter Rachel had graduated for high school and was getting ready for college. She chose North Central University in downtown Minneapolis to further her education.
We loaded our firstborn with all her stuff and headed to NCU for orientation for her freshman year.We pulled up to Rachel’s dorm and a friendly NCU student greeted us, offering to help carry Rachel’s things to her room. As he loaded the heavy tubs and suitcases on a cart, he pointed across the street and said, “Rachel, that’s Elliott Park. The students enjoy a lot of downtime there.”
Elliott Park!!!!!!!!!!!
I immediately crossed the street. As my feet touched the sacred soil where Grandma’s frightened feet had fled in terror, I realized that God had answered her prayer above and beyond her wildest dreams.
I grabbed my camera and started snapping pictures of everything in and around the park. When we returned home, I hurried to show Grandma the pictures. I asked her if she knew where these pictures had been taken. She nodded and said, “That’s Elliott Park. The trees sure have grown!”
The next trip to NCU……Mom went with us. We found the exact spot where she stood ix decades earlier with Aunt Dolores under their little umbrella. We took a quick picture. (See color photo. You can see the same steps and building in the background.)
Tears filled my eyes. It was a full circle faith moment. I knew we were standing on holy ground. It was evident that our eighteen-year-old daughter’s spiritual destiny really started sixty-two years previous, when her great-grandmother asked God for help. He was still answering Grandma’s prayer. There is power in prayer….. even a simple prayer!!!!
