Summer Issue 2012 by Temperance Media

VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2012 | VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2

VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

FROM OUR EDITOR... PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

This Letter, is actually not about the issue. It’s about the season. I want to say congratulations to all our graduates this year. Y’all made it thru.

ZIQUIA L. ANDREWS ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

CORRIE JOHNSON

ADVERTISING SALES ADVERTISING DIRECTOR WESTERN REGION

MARQUITA MURPHY 1-877-869-0160 EXT. 6835 ADVERTISING DIRECTOR EASTERN REGION

LAWANDA STALLWORTH 1-877-869-0160 EXT. 6833

INTEGRATED MARKETING DIRECTOR, SPECIAL PROJECTS & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

AUDREY MITHCELL DESIGN DIRECTOR

CURTIS WILLIAMS

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR

RALIEGH ANDREWS

Graduation. What a feeling of exhilaration, excitement, and a little nerves all mixed into one. A new life lies ahead of you, stretched out like the open road, ready for you to take a drive. It will be full of roadblocks, traffic jams, and detours that is for certain. The choices you make and map you choose to follow will determine where you will end up. Hasty decisions will lead to dead ends. This is your life we're talking about, so you want to choose your destination wisely. How do you guarantee that you'll end up in the fast lane, successful, and happy? Well, there really is no guarantee of success if you look at it by the world's standards; however, if you look at life through the eyes of God and see it as opportunities He is giving you, then you will always feel like you're a winner. The Bible says, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21. You can make your plans, however God's purpose for your life will prevail if you will follow Him, look to Him, and obey Him. When I was trying to make those decisions about my future, it was difficult. There were so many choices to make, choices about college, career, marriage, would I get a summer job, or move away from home? These decisions are never easy to make, however, we all have a link to the answers, or at least to some wisdom to help choose the best answer. This link is prayer, our lifeline to God. Choosing to go to Him with your decisions is the first step to making the right choices for your life. Matthew 7:7-8 reads, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." These verses back up my suggestion that seeking God's help is the best way to go. One of my best suggestions for anyone who wants to see how God works in your own life, is to begin recording your prayers in a journal. Writing down your requests, concerns, and thoughts is not only helpful to make one feel better, sort of a therapy for the worried, but it also is a rewarding experience to be able to return to those prayers after God has so graciously answered them, days, weeks or years down the road. You can then rejoice in the many blessings that God has given you. You will be astonished at all He truly gives you, and I guarantee it will be more than what you asked for.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

SHAWNA MURPHY

Sincerely,

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR

APRIL CURTIS DESIGN ASSISTANT

QUNIESHA BIENEMY

Ziquia Andrews

Editor In Chief

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sylvia Huffnagle Fernando Guilarte Matt Bartlett Donald Mehl James Snyder Winnie Kaetzel Star Ferdinand Jerry Ousley CONTRIBUTING JUNIOR EDITORS

Deon Elliott

Temperance Youth Magazine (ISSN 2161-6507) is published quarterly by TEMPERANCE YOUTH, 670954 Houston, TX, 77267-0954 for the cover price of $40.00 per year. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. The views expressed by guest writers are not necessarily those of Temperance Youth. Reproduction in whole or part without the publisher’s express written consent is prohibited. Temperance Youth is not responsible for unsolicited material. All correspondence, including requests for advertising rates, to Temperance Youth ● P.O. Box 670954 ● Houston, TX 77267-0954 Or call: (877) 869-0160 Or fax to: (877) 869-0121

TEMPERANCE YOUTH P.O. BOX 670954 HOUSTON, TEXAS

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You can also contact us on our website:

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TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2012 | VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2

AVAILABLE JULY 29th.

GLORY SONGS VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

Contents 10 13 15 30 32 42

Church Children Gossip Lovers Summer Storms Fooling Mother Nature Cow Paddies Effective Helping

MILLIYON

MILLIYON Million tells us about his Milliyonic experience and talks about how to live “Milliyonic” in your own way. Plus details on his new album releasing soon.

LOVE vs. LUST

IF IT AIN’T BROKE... DON’T FIX IT!

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How to know the difference.

Building a Boat on Dry Land Why would anyone build a large ship on dry land? How could they possibly hope to launch it? But Noah did.

Many simple everyday things in life can be a source of confusion and frustration. However, as irritating and annoying as they would seem to be, humor can frequently be found in them as well.

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JERMAINE COWAN Jamaican Bred Canadian Cred 24 There is definitely ‘Something about Life’, and this guy makes you wanna smile. Coming from Jamaica, Jermaine has made it not only to Canada, but to the radio and air waves, streaming into the homes of many.

READ HIS STORY!

More Features SHEENA LEE Sheena Lee is probably one of the most talented and young artists around. She has roots in music, stemming for both of her parents. Read about her start. From acting and performing theater on stage to singing.

SHEENA LEE 8

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P.U.N.C.S Called Forward For Much More

34 From the thoughts of suicide to the reconstruction of her life through Jesus Christ.

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CHURCH

C I

f you are a teen in a Christian home today have a lot to deal with. You have the godly influence of your parents and your church, but you also have three other very powerful influences in your life. You have school peers and teachers. You have TV, movies, books, magazines, radio, and music. You have your friends. All of these are putting input into your life and you may not mature enough to distinguish between the truth and the error, the good and the bad, the right and the wrong. Oh yes, sometimes you can. Sometimes it’s easy— a no brainer, but the devil is subtle and lies can be subtle. You have a lot of regard for what you are told. You haven’t learned yet that discernment is necessary and haven’t learned how to discern. Often you don’t have the knowledge and certainly not the experience to discern. Therefore you can truly want to be a Christian, want to have a relationship with God,

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but you may not know that that a certain thing is right or a certain thing is wrong. In many cases we assume certain things are okay because our church friends are doing it. Often we don’t even think about it. Before the TV era, when teachers were usually church people themselves and God was allowed in school— even taught in school, the children had a powerful witness in God’s behalf at school. Godly parents were their most powerful influence. Their playmates were usually church goers. If they weren’t church goers the kids soon learned and avoided them for the most part. No media was prevalent in their lives to wrongly influence them. All they had to deal with was their own sinful and rebellious heart. But today, the devil has more witnesses than the church and you, as a teen, are in a true dilemma.

CHILDREN I, as a parent and Sunday school teacher, taught the truth; expecting them to “go with it”, but I was mistaken. There are too many voices. Most of them are still feeling their way along— sort of groping in the dark. Godly influences are out-numbered. This age of society has given you more opportunity, even implied that it is your right to make up your own minds about many things that used to be “a given” in the Christian family and most of your minds are not developed enough to make a God-guided decision. Now it is true that if you are truly repentant of your ways and are diligently seeking God and His ways, God will be able to guide you into good choices early. Teens that have decided that they want Jesus to be their Savior, want God to be their authority as well as provider. They have made up their mind that they want to go to heaven, but they are not sure who is telling the true facts and they are not sure how far they want to go with religion. They see Christians

By, Sylvia Huffnagle

who are very casual about the Word. They see those who are Christian about some things, but not other things and then they see those who seem extreme. They don’t yet know what life is and what it is not. The world says life is finding happiness and/or having fun and/or experiencing a wide range of experiences. The only way to be a powerful witness for God in your life is to live it. Parents and churches must be doers of the Word. This does not only mean try to do right and go to church. It means seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness with your whole heart, put on the full armor of God, and discern what will edify you and what will hurt your weak consciences.

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GOSSIP LOVERS

By, Fernando Guilarte

ossip is the result of combining two major defects, which are pride and envy. He who engages in gossip is dedicated to his despicable trade motivated by his pride. He considers himself superior to all others and if he finds someone who is better person than him, he immediately dedicates to disqualify the other, spreading all over the place truths and lies, secrets and fabrications, and anything

that will cause damage. He who loves to gossip is also encouraged by the envy that is always gnawing at his heart. He can not accept that someone else has more credibility and prestige that him, or that someone else is more respected by all. For such a person the virtues of others are like a slap to his ego. Always beware oh him who brings gossip to you because that person will also disclose to others the issues you consider should be kept private or be considered a secret. Discretion is a noble virtue that makes his possessor and user to be

considered a person reliable and worthy of friendship. Discretion is hard to find. Its two major opponents, envy and pride, are in control of the lives of many who prefer to be guided by their own passions than by the Holy Spirit. Discretion may be exercised only when the person has self-control and we know how spiritually immature is the vast majority of the human race. Where there is gossip there can be no love. My loving mother in law always says: "He who loves, pays heed." Let us beware, therefore, of giving free rein to our tongue. Remember the saying: "Silence is golden." Let's be discrete and we will be a good friend indeed. Only to God be the glory!

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"Peace! Be still,"

By, Fernando Guilarte

Photo provided by photographer: WIDJITA RAYA M

Crash! B-b-b-b-oom! Then the rushing sound of a torrential downpour comes. These are the sounds of summer storms. They can blow up in an instant during a bright, sunny day. Sometimes they bring much needed rain and sometimes they bring disaster. The one thing they have in common is that they end. My son and I had gone to a ball game at Cincinnati one summer. When he was younger we tried at least once a year to go and see the "Reds" play. This particular time we had decided to make a day of it, going early enough to stay a few hours at the zoo, then, after a casual lunch go to the ball park early and get our seats before the crowd got there. It was hot. If I remember correctly when we got to the ballpark the temperature was around 102 degrees! But we "weathered" the heat and finally got to our seats. I don't remember much about the game except that as it went on, the sky in the distance was getting darker and darker. By the time the game ended the storm was almost on top of us. We hurried as fast as we could to get to the car. We had borrowed my Dad's car, a 1991 Geo Metro. It was great on gas but we were soon to discover something else about it. We got to the edge of the parking lot and the rain began. Actually it was more like the city of Cincinnati had decided to pour out an entire water tower over the stadium. And so we ran drenched to the car. We sat there for several minutes hoping that the rain would stop but it didn't. By the time we made the nerve -wracking trip through Cincinnati and got to Lawrence-

burg, Indiana we were worn out from fighting traffic, trying to see in the rain and spectacular lightning, and we were ready to stop! We found out that the little car floated. As we drove through the torrential rain we could actually feel the car lift to the top of the water on the road, especially if we were going too fast. The rain did finally end and the lightning stopped except for occasional flashes in the distance. Everything was strangely calm after the storm. It reminded me of the time Jesus calmed the storm. When all with Him in the boat thought that death was surely eminent, He stood, said, "Peace! Be still," and the terrible storm was done (see Mark 4:37-39). It also reminded me of how "storms" come to us in life at the most in-opportune times. We don't need that extra tension and trouble but it comes anyway. As surely as we can't stop the rain and the lightning, we can't stop the "storms of life" either. At best we can only hold on tight and ride them out. But just like in the storm with the disciples, if we know Jesus as our personal Savior, He will do one of two things for us. He will either calm the storm, or calm us. We can get through these things. In fact as a believer, the Bible tells us that all things work for our good (to those called according to His purpose see Romans 8:28). So when the rain falls in life and the wind howls remember our Savior. He will get us through and it will work out for the best one way or another. Jesus is even Master of Summer Storms. VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

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Besides the singer, songwriter, and actress, who is Sheena Lee? Sheena Lee is a Woman of God, after His own heart who is passionate about everything and makes sure she shines the light of Christ wherever she goes. She's real, transparent, encouraging to others, helpful, strong, caring, understanding, creative, fun, unique and optimistic. A down to earth, people’s person who love's to laugh, connect with others and share life experiences. Who also loves cooking, movies, stars and getting her nails done.

Do you consider yourself a missionary or a visionary? Explain Why. I consider myself to be a bit of both, I have always dreamt big and had a vision of what God has called me to do, but I also love to live out my faith. I have been blessed to travel overseas and throughout the U.S to minister the Gospel through music and the arts. I think it is important as believers to have vision and be mission minded for the Kingdom.

Christian teens experience a lot of scrutiny and peer pressure mostly during their Junior and Senior high school years. Getting personal... What types of peer pressure did you come to face with during those times and how did you deal with them? High School can be a very trying time in a teenagers life. It is filled with many misconceptions on reality as far as what’s in and what’s not. It is a time when you are trying to figure out who you are as a person and who you want to be. What ends up happening is that many teens lose their sense of identity trying to fit in and be someone they are not because they may view someone else's lifestyle to be better or may want what someone else has and will do VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

It isn't easy being a Christian in high school because you want to be accepted at all costs and fit in, but God has bigger plans for you. He has called you to be different/unique, original, to be set apart and show His love. That's what's in! STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF! It says in the word of God that we were beautifully & wonderfully made. If you do not love yourself or the way you look, aren't you saying to God that He made a mistake when he created you? Listen…our God is not a God of mistakes, He is God of perfection. Love yourself because He loves you! He sent His son to die on the cross in place of your sins. If that isn't a perfect example of love, then I don't know what is. To Him you are who He created you to be, made in His perfect image. I know this, because it is exactly the kind of pressure that I faced in high school. The pressure to be liked and the pressure to fit in all comes with a cost. I had to learn the hard way and at the end of it all I was left feeling empty with a broken heart. Don't lose yourself or sense of worth over anyone it's not worth it. I had come to a point that even though I was a Christian, I wasn't living by example. I let myself be distracted and persuaded by what I thought was the in thing to do and what would make me feel accepted. I didn't like the idea of someone not liking me or being mad at me. Reality hit me hard and I was tired of trying to be someone else other than who God created me to be. To deal with the pressures I surrendered all of my hurt and pain to God. I had to trust Him knowing that through my situation there was a lesson to be learned. He mended my heart and filled me with His love. From then on, I learned I was worth so much more and found my identity in Christ.

Some teens feel like they can't talk to God about their pressures. What would you say to encourage them to do so? The only thing that I can say to encourage you is that God knows all things. Do not be afraid to speak to Him. He knows the struggles & pressures you encounter everyday. More than anyone in your life, your family, your best friend or boyfriend/ girlfriend. He should be the one you always feel like you can talk to about anything and everything. Do not allow the enemy to deceive you or make you feel that you are less then or unworthy to go before God with what you are struggling with. He knows you inside out. It says in the word of God that He knew you before you were formed in your mothers belly. He wants to be your best friend, anything you need Him to be for you He can be that if you allow Him to. Trust Him with all of your heart and let Him in. He only wants the best for you and longs to hear from you each and everyday. He wants to have a relationship with you. Ask God to give you the strength to overcome those pressures and to better deal with them. You cannot deal with the pressures in your own strength. Allow God to help you.

As a child growing up, music surrounded you; at what point did you decide to actually pursue music as a career? The point that I decided to pursue music as a career was when I joined T.R.U.C.E in the year of 2002.

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We know that your parents were a huge influence in your life, however do you ever feel it was expected of you by them to choose music?? Yes I did feel that it was expected of me to choose music as a career, for the simple fact that when I was 5 years old I started telling my parents that I wanted to be a singer.

What was the first song that you sang in front of an audience? How did it make you feel? The first song that I sang in front of an audience believe it or not was "I Believe I Can Fly" for my 8th graduation. From what I do remember at that very moment as the graduating class, friends and family screamed & clapped all I could think of was how happy I was that the song was over. I was nervous at first as the song started but as it progressed this overwhelming feeling came upon me. It was invigorating and it felt natural.

At the age of 15 you started acting with T.R.U.C.E.. What was that experience like? The experience for me was very exciting. I had a love for the arts in every area so when I got the opportunity to become an extra for the play "Run Baby Run" it was a big deal for me. It was my first time being apart of an off broadway play. It involved not only singing, but dancing and acting as well. The most important part of the whole experience to me was at the end of the play when we held an alter call. Just seeing night after night the amount of people who came up to the stage to dedicate their life to the Lord after saying the prayer of salvation was amazing. For the first time, I was apart of something bigger then me, saving souls for the Kingdom.

I feel extremely blessed and honored that God has chose me for such a time as this in this season of my life to be apart of a movement such as the God Belongs In My City Tour in Florida. Last year was when I had an opportunity to be apart of the New York City/ Tri-state area tour along with Andy Mineo. The Lord moved in such an amazing way and it was an honor to be used by the Lord. These events are so different from your average event for the simple fact that there is a huge emphasis on prayer so that you are reminded of its importance as a body in Christ. In 1Thessalonians 5:17 it says to "pray without ceasing". So, I am very excited and I look forward to the impact with what God is going to do in the Florida tour for GBIMC.

Will there be anyone performing with you? If so, can you tell us who? Are you still doing any productions with T.R.U.C.E. / NCO? Actually yes, this summer in July a small group of us will be headed to Colorado Springs. I will get the chance again to get back into the roots of where it all started in music ministry/missions for me as a veteran. We will be doing what we call "HIT & RUNS" for 2 weeks, where we go into different communities throughout the city and minister through music. It will be ending with a big crusade where Nicky Cruz will be preaching. So I am looking forward to this upcoming trip. I know the Lord will move in this city in a powerful and mighty way.

The new album, what's the title? Is it 'PROJECT DESTINY' or 'THE DESTINY PROJECT'? When will it be released? The title of the new album is called "PROJECT DESTINY" and It will be released in July.

"Gotta Gettaway" is one of you most popular songs and you are featuring one of the industry's most greatest. How was it working with BenJah? Working with BenJah was a fun and fresh experience for me. BenJah and I have been friends for almost a decade now, so when we talked about me flying out to Orlando to work on a track together, I was ready to do it. Being in a new environment and just going for a new sound was exciting and needed. From the writing process to the actual completion of the song, the final product came out the way God intended it to. With all that being said, BenJah is an eclectic/creative artist and I enjoyed working with him and his team.

What else will the album consist of? Are there anymore surprise collaborations? The album will consist of various sounds such as R&B, pop, gospel, worship, dance and elements of hip hop. I just want the listener to have a colorful experience. YES, YES, & YES!!!! It's a secret coming out to you soon ;) .

How does it feel to be chosen to take part in the GBIMC Florida Tour in August? How exciting is that!!??

YES! There is... Sure I can, there will also be performances by artists such as KB, BENJAH, ANTHONY SHEPHERD AND THE ROAR, RHEMA SOUL and last but not least my dear friend ANDY MINEO!!!!! I believe it's going to be an amazing time in the Lord.

Before we close; music can be encouraging or it can be discouraging. So, with that in mind, what advice do you have for the youth of today when it comes to the type of music they choose to listen to? To all of the youth reading this article, this is my advice to you: Music is very powerful and it can have a great effect on you emotionally and spiritually. Music has the power to lift you up and tear you down. It has no language barrier because it is a language in itself. You have to be careful what you listen to and what you allow to enter into your ear waves because if what you listen to doesn't encourage, uplift, or help you to grow closer to God, then ask yourself, what is it doing? Look at it this way, If David was able to play his harp to drive a spirit out of King Saul's heart, don't you think that negative music can have the same effect and enter into your spirit and do damage? Your walk with Christ can be compromised. How can the spirit of God move in and through you if you are polluting your ear waves with music that can have a spirit of lust, depression, suicide, jealousy, loneliness, envy, anger, murder or hate attached to it? It just doesn't work, then you wonder why you are struggling in certain areas of your life. A particular song could encourage you to think or do things that are not of God. So if you find yourself in this situation please read Philippians 4:8 which says: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Amen. You have to pray daily and ask the Lord to renew your mind and your strength. Also, there are so many Christian artists out there that you can find on the internet or on iTunes in any genre you like that are really great, be willing to take the time and the initiative to look. I know its easier said then done, but it will be worth it. Trust me, you'll thank God later. Be encouraged and start searching the web for that Jesus music.

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LOVE vs. LUST 20

By, MATT BARTLETT

o… you see a girl (or boy… if you’re a girl) walking across the playground at school. They glance over your direction, only to see you staring right at them with a stunned look on your face! You quickly pretend that you are looking at something else! You start to sweat a little… you try to play it cool, but on the inside your guts do a triple somersault, with a half twist and a few pirouette’s for good measure. Then as she wanders into the distance giggling with her friends, you’re left sitting there like an idiot, with a billion thoughts and feelings pulsing through you, most of which are confusing, and you have no idea what to do with… you know you like her… but is it more than that? Do I love her? Or is it just that you think she’s hot? How do you tell the difference between Love and Lust? Although we can often get the two confused, the Bible is very clear about the difference between love & lust. As Christians, we need to make sure that we work hard at understanding the difference, because the outcome of loving someone is vastly different from the outcome of lusting after them! So here is how we can identify love & lust, and work out the difference between them.

LOVE

There is quite a lot in the Bible about love. As a matter of fact — according to Matthew 22:34-40, every command that is written in the Bible stems from love! Either loving God, or loving your neighbor (that is, anyone and everyone that you come into contact with). It even tells us about the ultimate example of love in Jesus Christ taking the punishment we deserve by laying down his life for us so we can be forgiven for our sin. But perhaps the most well known passage about love is 1 Corinthians 13 where we get a list of all the things that define what love IS and what it IS NOT. Love IS NOT envious, boastful, proud (self glorifying), rude, self seeking or easily angered, and it doesn’t not hold stuff against one another! Rather, love IS patient, kind, truthful, protecting, and hopeful, it never fails, but always perseveres with the other person, even when it is hard and you don’t really feel like doing it! In other words, love is otherperson-centered. It is all about putting the person who you love first, even before yourself… and sometimes at your own expense!

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LUST

The Bible also says a lot about lust! Proverbs is full of helpful hints & tips and is a must read for every young Christian! Other passages to read are Matthew 5:27-30, Romans 1:1832 & 2 Samuel 11, where King David lusts after an attractive young girl & ends up breaking most of the 10 commandments in one day! When you read these passages you’ll see that lust NEVER ends well, and that’s because it stems from a sinful heart. At the core of lust is selfishness, disrespect and a lack of self control, none of which are valuable characteristics in God’s eyes. Lust is self-centered. It is all about putting your desires first, without giving a thought to the person that you are lusting after. This generally plays out differently for guys and girls. Usually guys lust after the physical i.e. what they can see or touch, whereas for girls it’s usually more emotionally based i.e. what makes them feel good or special.

But of course, everyone is different and this is not always the case for everyone.

THE DIFFERENCE

The difference between love and lust is the attitude of your heart. If you’re in love, the attitude of your heart is one of selflessness, with the other person as your focus, whereas if you are in lust the attitude of your heart will be one of selfishness, with yourself as the focus. True love is driven by a godly desire to provide for, nurture and care for the other persons needs, whereas lust is driven by an ungodly desire to provide for, nurture and care for our own sinful passions. When you love someone you choose to stick with that person at the expense of all others, even when it’s hard and you don’t want to! When you lust after someone, you get angry and throw in the towel as soon as you don’t get what you want, or you

manipulate them until they do what you want them to do. So… if you find yourself wondering about whether or not you’re in love, ask yourself “what is my heart attitude towards this person? Is it one of selflessness or selfishness? Am I willing to put the hard yards in, even when I don’t really want to, or will I probably throw in the towel when things get tough? Do I want to invest into this person, or is it just about fulfilling my human desires?” The answer to these questions will be a sure indication of whether you are in love, or lust.

©Copyright FERVR. Article reprinted with permission. You can read more articles like this one at www.fervr.net.

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By Donald Mehl

Almost everyone at one time or another has experienced annoying little everyday frustrations involving new products, product changes, confusing labels, inadequate instructions, and misleading advertising. At times we must seriously question whether or not the designers, engineers, and marketing gurus ever test their products before they send them out to the store shelves. I think they just sit around in a padded room somewhere dreaming up stuff that will irritate people. An exhausting day to them must be when they almost collapse and die from laughter. Based on my personal experience with such things, the following is a partial listing of various products, labels, advertising, and instructions that cause me to seek relief by reaching for the aspirin and antacid tablets. My brief comments are also included to enhance your understanding.

what if anything has been improved? The old one was good, so why did it need to be changed? More often than not, “New and Improved” just simply means “Different and Worse”, and it’s likely to be more expensive.

“Sock Size 6-12” We must all shop for new socks occasionally – a little chore that sounds simple enough. We go into the store, locate the clothing department, and find socks hanging on a rack. Since my shoe size is eleven, I confidently make a selection from the tag marked, “Sock Size 6-12”. The fit and comfort is great right out of the package, but after the socks have been washed a couple of times, they shrink down to the small end of the size range – size 6. At that point a power winch is needed to pull them onto my size 11 feet. Caution: Wearing those skin-tight things carries a high risk of developing ingrown toe nails.

“New and Improved”

Consumers should see those words as a huge red flag that screams out – demanding a second look at the product. What’s new about it... and 22

“Plastic Wrap” After a new box has been opened, we are then faced with the difficult task of locating the leading edge of the

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plastic wrap, which is tightly wound around the tube. Once that has been accomplished, a desired length of the plastic can be pulled from the roll. Then with a quick, firm, sweeping motion, the plan is to sever the piece from the roll using the built-in cutting edge on the box. Most of the time, however, the cutting edge doesn’t work as intended. Often the plastic wrap will rip, stretch, or stick to itself – forming a useless crumpled mess suitable only for the garbage can. On those rare occasions when the cutting edge does work properly, the plastic wrap will quite often strike back by quickly and viciously attacking your arm – an obvious design flaw causing the attempt to package your limb for the refrigerator.

“Same Great Taste”

This is a good one! The fact is that when those words appear on a package, one doesn’t have to be a rocket scientist to know the product is different in some way. So, if it’s different, it can’t be the same. It doesn’t say it’s any better - just that it’s the same. However, it’s not the same, and that’s not good.

Photo Provided By: Arif and Massie. © Copyright FTW

“To Open - Gently Lift Flap”

Often when attempting to gently lift the flap as instructed, nothing will happen. However, in our determination to open the box, we decide to apply a little more lifting force to the flap. That’s usually when we discover that the tensile strength of the glue holding the lid is much greater than the shear strength of the flap material. In non-technical terms, that simply means the flap becomes hopelessly wrecked, and sometimes totally disengaged from the box. In either case the flap, or portions thereof, is rendered useless – and can never be used to hold the box lid shut as intended.

“To open - Press Here”

We’ve all seen those instructions. The “press here” words are usually surrounded by, or placed near, shallow dash marks embossed into a box top or other type of container. Often when pressure is applied “here”, the result will be a collapsed and malformed package – instead of producing a cleanly separated opening through which the product is accessed. At that point, a little homegrown ingenuity is needed to successfully enter the box. A few stabs with a scissor or steak knife will usually do the trick.

“Heavy Clear Plastic Bubble Packaging” You had better fire up the chain saw

for this one. That stuff can be so thick and tough that nothing else would penetrate the package. Trucks could roll over them without leaving a dent. It’s almost as if the product was only intended for viewing through the heavy, clear plastic – and never used. My grandmother, who through years of hard work, could split firewood and break dried ears of field corn with her bare hands. But if she were here today, she would need to hire a wrestling team wielding crowbars to open those packages. Life was much simpler in her day... in so many ways. Although only a few of the many items causing confusion and frustration have been listed, humor can frequently be found in all of them. Much of the time when man tries to mess with something good, the end result is usually less than intended and often a disaster. There is, however, one product that has endured and withstood the test of time. It’s perfect in every way, and the package is very easy to open. The label clearly shown on the outside of the package reads, “Holy Bible”. The message inside can be understood by all, and has eternal rewards for those who choose to believe. Just as it is with man’s pitiful and often hilarious attempts to mess with or

improve the previously mentioned products, labeling, instructions, etc., men have also tried to re-invent God’s Word. That is often done by omitting Scriptures, ignoring Scriptures, rewording Scriptures, and adding to the Scriptures – all done to change or minimize the Truth of God’s Word because they choose to not believe what it really says. God said His Word is Truth, it’s perfect, it’s trustworthy, and it’s guaranteed. God never changes, He is the same yesterday, today and forever, and He cannot lie. We have God’s sure promise that He will pronounce judgment on all who attempt to change His written Word. For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. (Rev. 22:18,19) Don’t mess with God’s Word! His message is not broken, it never will be broken...and therefore, will never need to be fixed!

VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2012 | VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2

Tell us a little about yourself? My name is Jermaine Cowan born and raised in Spanish Town, Jamaica. As a youth growing up, there were challenges, I remember sometimes food was limited for my sister and I, but my Mom found away to make it work. I remember in school some kids would have the best clothing, shoes and were able to afford things that my family was not able to, it was tuff. My Father was in my life, even thou he was there, to me it still felt like he was absent in some degree but, He did make an effort to make sure I was ok, regardless of how I felt. I was brought up in the Ghetto part of Spanish town, so sometimes you just don’t know better, I got caught up with the wrong crowd, but my Mom always guided me back into the right direction. In my teenage years I migrated to Canada, thanks to my Father who wanted me to have a better opportunity in life, it was very difficult leaving the only place you have ever known. But, inside of me I had a drive and determination to make it in life, but I could not do it on my own. Living in Canada I had the same mentality as when I was in Jamaica, all about Woman and the “Bling-Bling” lifestyle caring only for the things in the world. I’ve never gone to jail or get caught up with gangs or the Law and for that, I Thank God. Something amazing happened to me, that changed my life for ever. God gave me a chance to get to know His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ and that was a start of a new chapter in my Life. I loved the sound of music from a young age. I was part of a Sound Crew System, and I would be on the mic just entertaining. Music runs deep in my blood. My Father is also an amazing singer. So when I became a Christian, I knew that I

had to sing for the glory of God, because he hath blessed me with a wonderful instrument, My Voice. In each of the songs I sing, you will hear a little of my history. There is more to me, but Music with Love is me. We understand that you came to Canada at the tender age of 18. Tell us about that experience? Why did you leave Jamaica? Leaving Jamaica was not my decision but my parents. I must admit it was challenging at first because I had to leave My Mom, sister, friends and the environment that I knew. Coming here, I knew it would help my education in many ways, however it put a strain on me emotionally and mentally. In Jamaica my mom had it rough with me as a young teenage boy. I was very difficult to deal with. My family did not want me to head down the wrong path, so the only way out was to take me out. I am now grateful for the experience. What about your youth? What experiences besides the move from Jamaica would you say changed your life or your outlook on life? Growing up I was one of the biggest womanizers (galist/girls man) that you could find. I felt like it was the coolest thing to do. The transition also was a big issue because of my new life, friends, and school. It gave me an opportunity to connect with my Dad. My mother was everything in my life, and when I began spending time with my dad, it became challenging because we never had that father/son bond. But I admire him for the way he supported me and all of my siblings. Also for the way he loved music.

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The way my dad was so passionate about singing, he opened my eyes to another level. He would always sing for the family. Singing became so natural for me, and I thank God, however it was difficult in the beginning, but I never quit. I just kept trying till I succeeded. When it came to the women issues; I had to come to terms that I have a mother/sister/aunty and females friends. I realized I was hurting them— not knowing at the time, because I was young. So those are some of the things that changed my life for the better and made me a better man today. I now know how to appreciate the opposite sex, thank you LORD. So you were influenced by music at a young age? Yes, The Cowan’s family is known for their musical talent. How else did your father influence you? He is the musically icon in my life, you may not see him in the spot light, but he helped me greatly to develop my vocals, and when the time was right, he said “NOW YOUR READY”. Thanks dad! Shout out to him! Even thou my dad had major setbacks and lots of disappointments, he never wanted that to stop me. So I used that to my advantage to push my music to the next level that he had not reached. Were you raised in the Church? Yes I was, but I was not a follower, I use to curse God… but things turned around about the age 18, when he truly became my Lord and Savior. What biblical person would you say you share the most characteristics with and why? If I had to choose one it would be Moses, he went from a palace to the dessert. God found a way to get his attention, so that what he had called him for, would be fulfilled. Moses was driven. He never liked the way the task master treated the servants, and he was driven to fix that. Even though he went about it the wrong way. I was once driven by the things that seem appealing at the time, but the end it would only drive me further from God. So God had to take me from one extreme to the next, so 26

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that He may be able to refine and prepare me for His calling, and yes... He is stilling working on this Vessel. Moses had to come to the place where he had to only depend on God, not man. I realized that humans cannot really help you, only God. He made both Moses and I. He alone can do the work, but I had to first will my life to Him. God shifted Moses’ heart to start caring for the things of God and his flock. He needed someone to carry out His mandate. MOSES’ LIFE WAS TRANSFORM BY A VISION, and my life was transformed by a vision as well. When God has a perfect plan for one’s life, it will come to pass. So, I hold on to that, knowing that His perfect timing is not my timing. God had to prepare Moses in the off season to get him ready for His season. Also King David, there are lots of characteristics in him, that I share; but in different areas of my life. He loved God so much that even thou he messed up… God kept him, because he feared God. I realize that head knowledge will only take you so far, but a heart transformation in Christ is what we need, or should I say, what has taken me this far. I pray, that he will never stop working on me. As a child growing up, who was your favorite artist? Who did you love to listen to? Growing up I had a few artists that I really look up to such as— DENNIS BROWN/BOB MARLEY/SANCHEZ/MICHEAL JACKSON and BENNIE MAN. Each artist brought something different to the table, and they had a story. I admire Bennie Man because I knew him before he became a mega reggae music icon. I knew his story, and what he went through. These different artists showed me that no matter where you were brought up, you could make a difference. You didn’t have to become a statistic. The greatest difference is that I sing for the Glory Of God. However, we all have a story tell. In life I was taught not to try and change people; but try and make a difference in people's lives, by loving them. To be known is one thing. But to be known for

singing for the Gospel of Christ and seeing people be saved is the greatest reward. Being a Jamaica born Reggae artist, have you ever received any criticism from the Christian Music Industry in any way? I have received lots of criticism and you will always get that because you can't please everyone. Even Christ himself could not please everyone. If so, all would be walking with Him today. They would say that Reggae is not Gospel, but they have to remember that it is what I grew up knowing. If I were from Texas, most likely I would sing country music. Some say it is the devils music, but I always remember Christ came preaching salvation on a donkey and they condemned Him and said He was not the Messiah. You can never please mankind. So, with joy and diligence I sing, because only His critiques matter at the end of the day. People don’t like change but God chose to speak to us in different forms. Look at the world— it is vast. Different races, colors, personalities, but at the end of the day God created them all. So, whether I sing Gospel music in the form of reggae, hip hop, rock, country or R&B, once it is for the glory of God, so let it

be. God created music, King David danced, and as long as I live, I will sing and dance. I’m not dead, I have life. This music is radical and influential all over the world and I am glad I was brought up hearing and singing reggae.

“ Even Christ himself could not please everyone.”

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What made you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in music? I’ve always loved to sing, melody was inside of me. So when I became a Christian, I told the Lord that I never wanted to bored. So music was what kept me going, and when I read the Bible, it kept me inspired to write even more. God as blessed me with gifts and talents; people would say I’m a jack of all trades. But I always return to singing. It captivates audiences and it always uplifts me on the inside. I love ministering to young people; showing them thru music that God is real and whatever gift He blesses you with, use it for His glory. I made it my point of duty to pursue music, to capture their hearts and give them a different view of the music industry. I will take it throughout the world to change the lives of God’s people bringing them back home. "Something About Life" is one of you most popular songs. Did you write it? What's the meaning behind it... in your perspective? I had so many ideas, but I just could not find away to bring it all together. So a Producer friend of mine, Promise Shepherd, put the ideas together and we came up with this song. The song is talking about God, it’s a love song to Him. Everything about Him makes me smile. I wanted a song to remind me of the positive things in life, because we tend to dwell on the negative. This song is for remembering the things about your life that keep you going and put a smile, not only on your face but in your heart. God has brought me from a long way. So, I have to give Him all the praise and honor for preserving me till now. So that's where that song came from...”SOMETHING ABOUT LIFE MAKES ME WANT TO SMILE”. What are you doing now? Any new releases lately? I have 4 new singles releasing; SOMETHING ABOUT LIFE, WIN SOUL featuring Lisa Grant, I CAN'T TURN AROUND featuring Karen Jules and my latest, MOVING ON— which is very up-tempo. These songs talk about my struggles; where God has me now and where He’s taking me. The new album will be called “TRANSPARENT”. What else will the new album consist of? Are there any other collaborations we can look forward to? “TRANSPARENT” will consist of a few collaborations, but I can't reveal the names as of yet.

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Christ. It is all about the Kingdom of God and the precious souls He has created. Mankind will always have a void to be filled and no matter what they use to fill that void it will never work. Only God alone could fill that void and that is the honest truth. As Christians, it’s not about us, it is all about the Kingdom of God. We are disciples, so we must bear fruit by wining souls for the Kingdom. The song is reasoning with my brother’s and sister’s not to condemn them, but to build. You can bring God to them, but God does the revealing. So “WIN SOUL” would be that song.

This album is really for the un-saved. It will be a double disk CD, you will find music on Life Issues, Worship, Love etc., it will be inspiring. It will keep you dancing and most all it will minister to you. As a man that has grown spiritually, what advice or message do you have for the youth? Just be mindful of what you do or get yourself involved in. It is so easy for you as a young person to be lead astray. Try to stay focused in school and in God, because in Him you can do all things— without Him you can't do anything. God called you because you are strong and courageous, don't get caught up in the things of the world. You have so much potential. Don’t ever get discouraged if human beings fail you; but be encouraged when God opens doors for you that were once closed. Become who God say you are and not what the world thinks you should be. Why? Because, when God has a purpose for your life, you will prosper in what He has called you to be. It will stand. Nothing will be able to move you from it. Remember, education is also important. If you lose yourself in Christ, you will find his perfect will. God will bless you richly. If you had only five minutes on earth to perform one song that could leave a great impact on the world today, what song would you perform off the new album and why would you choose that particular piece? Song title “WIN SOUL” I choose this song because of the lyrical content. It is universal and it holds truth to the message of

Without music, I would be... A soccer player, art director or an actor. Music is... Breath taking! It’s me, it is the air I breathe. …Ahh My music makes me feel... Alive. It speaks to me, because I have experienced it and more. I write the songs because... Knowing that others and myself are going through these circumstances, it gives me a chance to share my testimony without pretence or shame. Everything I write, I know for sure it will inspire someone to live again and to hold fast to the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord. Support my music because... It is my God given Gift… Proverbs 18:16 “A Mans gift maketh room for him and bringeth him before Great Man”. It deals with reality, life, truth and a way of living. People need to hear it. If I never experienced it how I can I sing about it. I’m a disciple through my Music; words travel. If I keep silent who will hear? So I sing aloud that many will hear and come to the saving Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. REACH ONE—TEACH ONE. Then I can help the others, and through this music I know I can. Remember, Christianity is a LIFESTYLE; how you LIVE and connect with PEOPLE. RELIGION separates. CHRIST came to bring people together through RELATIONSHIPS; something we all need. Love is the Answer.

BOOKING INFO: EXTOL MUSIC GROUP Deshaun Jones deshaun@dtsjones.com www.reverbnation.com/jermaineacowan FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER/FACEBOOK/MYSPACE/YOUTUBE/ SONICBID ALBUM TRANSPARENT COMING SOON.... MUSIC VIDEO COMING SOON TRANSPARENT TOUR COMING SOON (US/CARIBBEAN/ OVERSEAS) TRANSPARENT TOUR (CANADA)STARTS END OF MAY 2012SEPTEMTBER 2012 ENDS.

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Summer may not be the only time to have a picnic, but it is by far the best time to have a picnic. At other times of the year we are normally more rushed than during the summer. Therefore, the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and Yours Truly endeavor to put in one picnic during the summer.

By James Snyder

Drawing on my many years of experience in picnic lore, I can tell you the most important ingredient for any successful picnic is the weather. There was a time, oh so long ago, when I thought the most important ingredient for a picnic was the picnic basket. I discovered through the years you can have the best picnic basket in the world filled with the most scrumptious food and it all can be for nothing if the weather doesn't cooperate. There is nothing like a bad weather day to spoil a picnic. I cannot tell you how many times my wife and I, with the little kiddies behind us, planned for a picnic in the park only to have it ruined by rain. It's not just having our picnic canceled; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the whining, moping around, and stomping of the feet that really irritated

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me. The situation was more than the children and I could handle. Here's some of my accumulated picnic lore I want to share with you: You know it's going to rain when there has been a four-month drought. The mere planning of a family picnic can break a four-month drought. You know it's going to rain when the weatherman says, "Clear skies for the weekend". Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little game Mother Nature likes to play with the weatherman. The bigger the picnic the better chance it will rain all day. The longer a picnic has been planned the better the chance it will rain that day... and that very hour only. It usually will rain long enough until somebody sighs deeply and says, "It's no use, we'll have to cancel the picnic". Then, there will be a little giggle somewhere in the sky, and the rain will quit and the sun will shine again. One day I had enough of this nonsense. We had planned for a family picnic and all of us were dreading it would rain. All week long, the skies were clear and bright. Not a cloud to be seen anywhere. The Saturday of the picnic began clear as a bell. We set the time of the picnic for 10 o'clock in the morning. Secretly, our plans were to have the picnic at one o'clock in the afternoon. However, that was just between the family. We got up in the morning and said rather loudly, so you know who would hear us, "It's a great day for a picnic. I can't wait for 10 o'clock to come so we can have our picnic". I had the door open and was standing in the doorway when I said this. That was about nine o'clock. At about 9:45, a few clouds began to gather. We all observed this quite carefully. A few minutes before 10 o'clock it began to rain for all it was worth.

and the sun shone ever so brightly. We waited a few moments, and then made a dash for the car concealing the picnic basket. Before Mother Nature knew what we were doing we were out of sight. I know it is not nice to fool Mother Nature, but sometimes it is necessary. Here is another thing you can do to "fool Mother Nature". The next time you plan a family picnic keep it secret. Make all the plans in hushed voices. After you have packed the picnic basket, put it in a garbage bag and tie it tightly. When the time comes to leave for your picnic, stand at the door in your bathrobe with a cup of coffee in your hand and pretend to yawn. There is nothing Mother Nature hates more than someone standing in their bathrobe at the front door yawning. While you are at the front door say in a very loud voice, "It's a good day to stay indoors." In the meantime, your wife and children are sneaking out the back door and hiding in the car. Nonchalantly, close the front door, sneak out the back door, and join your family in the car. Make sure the garbage bag is in plain view so if Mother Nature happens to see you driving away all she will see is the garbage bag and will think you're taking it to the dump. I'm so thankful our Heavenly Father is not as persnickety as Mother Nature. A favorite passage of Scripture of mine is, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning" (James 1:17 KJV). I can always count on God for the perfect gift.

I love it when a plan comes together. Right at 10 o'clock I went to the doorway opened the door, sighed deeply, and said as loudly as I could, "It's no use, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to cancel our picnic". Predictably, there was a little giggle somewhere in the sky, and the rain stopped as quickly as it came

If you think outwitting Mother Nature is difficult, wait until you must deal with Father Time.

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COW PADDIES By Winnie Kaetzel

Eeeoow! My bare foot landed right smack in the middle of a fresh cow paddy and the warm gooey manure oozed easily through my cold toes! The temperature change was welcome, but the content was not. Without stopping my sprint to investigate, I turned my foot upside-down to let cold, dewy, weeds and alfalfa stalks clean the acrid dung out of the hidden recesses of my foot. Totally ignoring my call of "Kabooooss," the cows contentedly chewed their cuds at the far end of the stubbly pasture. My brother, Buster and I circled around behind those satisfied bossies to corral them from the side and chase them to the barn where Dad waited to lock them into their individual stanchions for our morning milking ritual. 32

Relieving our cows of their full udders had to be done every morning and evening. If the Guernseys decided that the grass at the far end of the field was more succulent than the grain in their milking stanchion, then we had to deal with it. I was a fast runner, so Dad usually sent me on the mission to herd them up to the barn. It was all part of growing up on an Ohio farm and being a farmer's daughter. Usually I didn't mind the run with Buster, but when my foot penetrated those hidden paddies that oozed fresh, warm, manure through my toes and splashed up my leg, it left a distinct aroma for hours to come. I didn't need that, especially on Sunday morning. So after the cows were milked, I scrubbed my feet with Ajax before pulling on nylon hose and heels to go to church. My cityborn, teenage, friends would never abide such an aroma sitting next to

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them in Sunday school class. Nor would I be comfortable knowing the distinctive scent had not been totally erased. The memory of this youthful incident came back to me recently as I struggled to rid my mind of vain imaginations which threatened to plunge my life and reputation into a pleasurable cesspool of sin. Rushing headlong into a legitimate mission, I realized almost too late that prohibitions were being exceeded. The stench of consequences would soon stain my name and character. I needed to stop this destructive daydreaming and scrub my mind with the Ajax of God's Holy Word, then yield my thought life and will to the control of His blessed Holy Spirit. Only then could I be presentable and unashamed.

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P.U.N.C.S CALLED FORWARD FOR MUCH MORE

A Person Under New Construction by God. Photo provided by photographer: Michael Watts

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Photo provided by photographer: Michael Watts

In The fall of September 2008, Felicia Williams aka P.U.N.C.S, was having suicidal thoughts. She encountered an outer body experience, seeing herself jump from her bedroom window hitting the pavement. It was at that very moment she knew her life was taking a devastating turn, from a recent break up with her former boyfriend who was cheating on her during their three years of dating. During this sinful, deceptive relationship Jesus still granted favor on Felicia’s future and well-being. Keeping her from having his baby out of wedlock while dodging two scares of STI’s. The first close encounter led her to the decision to get out of the relationship. This life altering experience is what brought her forgiveness, through repentance having a deeper and meaningful relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Felicia Williams was born on March 11th 1985 by her loving parents in Boston Massachusetts. Felicia was nurtured in church where as her mother did not attend church, she played an significant roll because of her faith in God. Would send her off to church on Sunday mornings with tenants or close friends in her neighborhood. Felicia as she would go to church faithfully. Encountered many adversities that has become the pinnacle of her obedience and, calling that God has bestowed upon her According to the lords purpose. While growing up she would rap with her older brother who would teach her how to rhyme, as she would master the technique. In high school she would hone her skills free-styling with friends in the neighborhood, as they would smoke marijuana to what they would call “sessions”. To on lookers Felicia was a 5-foot tall athletic built female who’s voice was distinctively unique with an appealing presence and at times intimidating. Felicia is an independent, unpredictable sly girl. Who did not respect authority but wanted to be a police detective. However, being a disobedient teenager to her peers was depicted of having “things together” in her life. She had a job at a popular retail store as a floor manager was getting good grades in school while she drove

“hooked up” cars. Felicia enrolled in College after high school majoring in criminal justice, pursuing her dream of becoming a police detective. In February of 2005, 4 days before Valentine’s Day. Felicia met who she thought was her husband to be inside of a neighborhood Walgreens. When she thought she met the man she had prayed for. She would pray and fantasize from time to time about her ideal husband who had to be a man of God. Though Felicia was not present in church that often in her teenage years compared to when was a child. She wanted to give her life to God. Felicia, while growing up prayed for a man who would have the same last name as her and who wanted the same career path as well. As they exchanged numbers and began to get to know each other Felicia came across some facts that she thought was confirmation, that the lord answered her prayers about her uniquely detailed husband. Who had the same last name as her and career path that was also majoring in criminal justice that also wanted to be a police detective was topped off with being a member of a church and a church musician. They eventually started dating and she would visit his church on occasions because he would openly invite her. At the age of 22 years old Felicia gave her life to the lord cause she thought her life was complete by having who she thought who was her future husband. But they were both, living a sinful lifestyle dangerously serving two masters. When she thought she was pregnant after experiencing symptoms of pregnancy. She went to see her physician who tested her and greatly found out she was not pregnant. Which was a major shock for Felicia because the symptoms were one of a pregnancy. Her doctor could not give her any other explanation to why she was feeling that way.

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Later in her relationship, a few months after the pregnancy scare., her boyfriend called her at work expressing to her he contracted an STI. After hearing such bizarre news Felicia chuckled at him over the phone stating with neck and attitude “you did not get that from me cause you’re the only one I am sleeping with”. She left work early to go to the hospital to get tested for something she knew she did not have. Just to prove to her boyfriend he did not contract the STI from her. A week later with negative results was absolutely right. It was clear that her boyfriend had cheated and did not care about her. She felt that it was time to break up with him. It was hard for her to do but she eventually did it. Felicia went through a depressing state where she did not eat. The only peace she thought she could find was from drinking and going to dancehall parties but it only made it worse. She was heart broken and stopped attending church. Her former pastors eventually found out what was going on with her and called to help her spiritually. Which she was not open to hear at the time, do to the fact the enemy had a strong hold on her life. One day Felicia was sitting in a chair facing her window depressed and suicidal. Had an outer body experience of seeing her self-jumping out the window hitting the pavement. That was when she knew if she did not go to church and get spiritual guidance along with prayer she was going to end up lost forever or even worse dead!

Photo provided by photographer: Michael Watts

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Photo provided by photographer: Michael Watts

Felicia quickly snapping out of the satanic state of mind, threw on any clothes she could find, and ran out her house speeding to church. She immediately spoke to her pastors about her back sliding lifestyle and how she was immensely hurting from the break up. Her pastors held hands with her, and the three of them prayed together. The spirit of God was in the office when Felicia was delivered from such a

‘no longer Punks; used to describe someone as worthless or unimportant.’ heavy burden. She had no idea why she felt like killing herself. It was all gone thanks to Jesus, who was there through her mistakes., that could have ruined her future. After she and her pastors prayed, one told her that the Holy Spirit is saying that “she has a calling on her life” and that she needed to find out from God through fasting and prayer in order to know what her calling is. Felicia began to listen to instrumentals on her iPod and freestyle rap. She caught herself rapping secular and stopped her self. She then began to write about Jesus; using uniquely articulated biblical scriptures describing her salvation. She had found her calling through song, evangelizing the word of God through gospel rap. She continued to consecrate asking God about her purpose on earth. Until one Sunday morning service, which was what she called an conformational Sunday. She was conversing with the Lord in her mind, about rapping for the Gospel, knowing that it was a male dominated ministry. In the middle of her con-

versation with God she was called to the alter where an evangelist spoke to her repeatedly stating. “The anointing was all over her and that she was called to do the work of God. ” The evangelist also whispered to her that the Holy Spirit was saying to her “why aren’t you pregnant”. As the evangelist rubbed her belly she realized, she was pregnant from her former relationship but God stopped it from happening. Jesus had a special purpose and favor on her life. And this was ministering the word of God through song. Had Felicia not been obedient to her pastor in seeking her existence, she would have never known about the love and covering the lord had on her life. That the lord had established on her even when she had backslid into the world. After receiving her calling, word got out about her music as she began to minister, thru song through out Boston down to San Antonio, Texas. Landing her television performances while radio stations played her songs. Granted Felicia to having her own website called www.Puncs11.com. The name P.U.N.C.S was a nick name given to Felicia from her deceptive relationship with her former boyfriend. The only difference was the spelling in the nick name. Their was a letter K instead of the letter C that now stands for construction. Felicia decided to reconstruct her nick name that was used in a negative manner. To one that is positive for her ministry because, she is no longer Punks; used to describe someone as worthless or unimportant. To one who is a Person Under New Construction by God. The lord has given Felicia the vision to use what the enemy has corrupted to deceive this nation to win souls for the lord. Felicia will continue to expand the kingdom of God preaching his word through song. Ordained by the lord P.U.N.C.S carries a strong anointing 1 John 2:27. Powered by the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Acts 1:8 has touched every listener young and old through her rising world ministry. Changing the lives of this generation she empowers followers and nonfollowers of Christ Jesus with the word of God as the Holy Spirit convicts listeners hearts.

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MILLIYON Wow, thanks for taking time to do this with us. Starting off... how have you been?

I've been awesome as always! God is good. Continuing to increase in him and with him. Now, we all know that your real name is not Milliyon...lol! Give us your real name and explain to us where the name Milliyon is derived from.

My name is Keenen, and the name Milliyonâ&#x20AC;Ś we'll, I use to go by Kay Bizzy. My mission was to reach 1 Million souls for Jesus. Through various ministry events & my managers at the time Platinum Souls and my bro and label owner Canton Jones God blessed me with the opportunity to do just that at a much faster pace than I had anticipated. I wanted to further that mission, so I came up with the name Milliyon, which is a number that cannot be totaled, tallied, or counted. Not only is Milliyon my name, it is also my mission, which is to reach an immeasurable number of people for God and spread the message of Jesus Christ.

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You demonstrated being "Milliyonic" by giving back something that was taken from you not too long ago. For those that haven't seen it, and have no idea what I am talking about, tell them what happened.

Well, as I was on my way home in a cab from my job at about midnight, I noticed several young guys about 13-15 carrying a basketball goal down the street from my house, which looked odd enough, until I realized it was MY basketball goal; that took me 2 1/2 hrs. during the hot sun the previous day to put together. I immediately hopped out the cab, followed them, and called the police. They came and took care of the situation immediately. On the way home, dragging my goal home with a room-mate, I begin to ask God why did he allow that to happen and allow me to see it. He reminded me that its never about me and that in life and in my ministry I have to be prepared to give things away as soon as I get it because of the impact that it will have on the lives of others. I'm a funnel, I'm blessed to be a blessing, not to keep the blessing. The next day I packed the basketball goal up

on a truck and gave it back to the kids who stole it with 2 new basketballs for them to play with it. How can teens live "Milliyonic" ?

Milliyonic is a lifestyle of young Christians who are unashamed of Jesus Christ. We live a lifestyle that lines up with the Word of God. Not about religion or denomination; we are among the uncounted number of people who live boldly for the King in everything that we do. We are about having a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. Some people call it "Paying It Forward" some people call it "Seed, Time & Harvest" but everything we do has the potential to have immeasurable impact on someone's life. If you had a chance to walk in love and you did… That’s Milliyonic. If you shared Christ with someone… That’s Milliyonic. If you took a stand for Christ today… That’s Milliyonic. We represent what’s cool in the culture. Christian Culture. Now, we wanna go all the way back to "Swaggin" ... What inspired that song? Is there is any way a connection between "swaggin" and living "Milliyonic"?

LOL!! It was originally a song that I was to put on a mix tape. I was working on releasing right before my album called I.S.W.A.G... I wanted a song that was like an anthem for Christians who served God and were cool (like myself). Well, while playing the mix tape for Cajo, he liked the song and had our producer Professor Black put a new beat to it that would give the song more of what it deserved. Personally, I feel like it was an "ok" song, definitely not the dopest, but I can't argue with 105,000 people on Youtube. It became one of the most controversial songs on DaSouth.com, and one of the most viewed at one time. The word "SWAG" to me was an acronym [Serve. With. Attitude. God]. Basically, it says from the way I talk to the way I live... from my conversation to my giving, this is how I serve God in my own way. Most definitely, its how I Live Milliyonic. People took it as a song that talked about self. They didn't like limo's chains and hummers because apparently if your a Christian, those things are Faux pas. But that's another interview.

Canton Jones?

Well, Cajo was the praise and worship leader at my church in 2001-2002. I wrote a song with a friend of mine called "Look At Me", but we had no beat to the song. One day, I walked up to Cajo and said I needed a beat for a song that I wanted to minister. He asked me to walk with him to the office. He got on his MPC (track maker), and had me say the whole song twice. When I was done, he was done with the beat. The next day I went into the studio at my church and recorded the song. From 2002-2007 I traveled and served his ministry until I signed to Cajo Records in 2007.

that in the past has unsuccessfully put Christian hip hop, Gospel, R&B and pop music in one box. I'm a "give you what’cha want" kinda guy. I minister to people of all ages and I'm a musical connoisseur of all types of music and God has blessed me with the talent to not only be able to infuse the genre's, but do them well and be able to stay true to who I am at the same time. So there’s a song for the Gospel heads. There's a song for the hip-hop 808, bass lyrical guys, there’s cuts for the pop lovers and even the worshipers have a song. Jesus wasn't in a box. Neither was his gift. I’m like Jesus, so it reflects in my music.

So tell us a little about "Live Milliyonic", the new Album and when it will be released?

So what's next for Milliyon? Going on vacation and taking a well deserved break? Going on tour?

Live Milliyonic is me. My life as one of the uncountable people willing to live an uncompromised life for Jesus Christ. My up's, my down's. The things that God had brought me through, and the amazing times that I've had as the coolest Christian ever. I love God. I love to have fun. I love to impact peoples lives with what God has done for me. I tried to convey just that through this album. It will be released 4th Quarter 2012 or 1st Quarter 2013 What else can we look forward to from "Live Milliyonic"? Any cool collaborations?

I wanted to defy the status quo tag

My prayer is to continue to be able to impact the lives of young people all over this globe. I’m always continuing to expand the brand. I’m working on a project called U.Y.M., which will be tools for Urban Youth Ministries to reach their kids with dramas, sermons, and music; topically based. Another thing is the Confessions CD for young Christians to confess the word of God over their daily lives. I request your prayers for $50,000 to build a cafe theater that will serve as a platform to independent Christian artist who are in line with the culture to display their gifts on a professional platform in the GA area. It’s called MPC Theatre. Look Continued on page 49

How did you get involved with

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out for it. I’m always looking to tour with great artists, (HINT-HINT)… but, this is my life 24/7. I’m 26, and have been a full time ministry for 3 years now. Vacation??? Nah, I love my job too much. But, if anyone's looking to bring me somewhere near a beach, I won't turn down an extra day. When do you think you will start signing to your new label, Milliyonic Pure Culture? LOL!!!, MPC isn't a label, its a brand and a touring company. We have a roster of acts already. www.livemilliyonic.com/ mpc to see more and as for Branded Pure Music, well… God is good, ain’t He? Without music, I would be...

very bored

Music is...

my outlet My music makes me feel...

empowered

LECRAE—Church Clothes

I write the songs because...

their needed Support my music because...

I desire to impact this world for Jesus Christ. Please feel free to add anything else that you would like to share with the youth to encourage and inspire them.

I thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity to share my vision with you. However, I realize that no man can do it alone. Even Jesus had 12 disciples with Him. Please visit the site livemilliyonic.com or my FB or twitter @iammilliyon and join the movement. As a word of encouragement; without God we are nothing. But with him, we are immortal. No matter what situation you may be facing, have faced or will face, know that God's grace is sufficient as you follow His word and seek His face. All that you need, you can have. This life is one of faith. Either you’re walking it out, or thanking Him for the faith to walk through it. In all things, He & His word is faithful. We Live. We Love. We Impact. Continue to live Milliyonic.

Lecrae will always hit you hard. Church Clothes was a little controversial. However, if you really pay close attention to what he’s really saying, you’ll get the point.

RMG—Somebody To Love Oh yeah, they are still on our list. This song just does not get old to us. It seems nowadays, everyone is looking for Somebody to love them.

GIDEONZ ARMY—Perfect Fall From the album Mainstream, “Perfect Fall” is a hot joint. Even though many criticized the group for it’s music reaching the ’Mainstream’, they get high rakings from us. Keep it up G.A.

TRIP LEE—Fallin’ Trip Lee brought it with this one! Actually, that ‘s no surprise. Trip Lee knows how to keep his audience in tuned with what he ‘s feeling or thinking. We just love Trip Lee!

WHAT”S ON YOUR PLAYLIST? Email us at: mail@temperancemag.com. VOL. 2 - ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2012 | TEMPERANCE YOUTH MAGAZINE

Effective Helping By, Star Ferdinand

esus has called us to follow Him and one of the ways we do that is by helping others. He said that the world will know we are His disciples if we have love for one another. If we love our Christian brothers and sisters, we will help them in whatever way we can. But Jesus did not restrict His help to only those of His religious persuasion. He healed Samaritans, Romans, and other Gentiles. As we follow Him, we too must reach out to those outside of our spiritual family. Throughout the Bible we see that God's people are to help one another, as well as anyone else who is in need of assistance. As we read the Old Testament, we see numerous references to people helping. In Deuteronomy, Moses told the Israelites to help lift up their brother's donkey or ox that has fallen down. Job talks about his helping the poor and the fatherless. Zechariah talks about people coming from far off to help build the Lord's temple. The Old Testament is filled with accounts of God helping people. For instance, consider the way He took care of the Israelites in the wilder42

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ness, helped David defeat Goliath, and provided for the widow of Zarephath. We see in the Gospels that Jesus was constantly helping others. From the feeding of the multitudes to the healing of the lame, the deaf, and the mute, Jesus was helping people. Remember Paul's vision of the man from Macedonia, recorded in Acts 16:9? The man asked Paul to come and help them. Throughout Paul's writings, he encouraged the brethren to help others. Just as effective communication requires a sender and a receiver of the message, so does effective helping require a giver and a receiver of the help. Being the receiver of the help can be difficult for people who grew up hearing the words, "God helps those who help themselves". In the Bible, however, we find such commands as "bear one another's burdens" (Gal. 6:2, ESV), "you give them something to eat" (Mark 16:37, ESV), and "help her in whatever she may need from you" (Rom. 16:2, ESV).

These statements were made with the full expectation that those on the receiving end of the help would accept it. I grew up believing that I should do everything I could to be self-sufficient and independent. I had no problem helping others; that was enjoyable. Accepting help was a problem. As the years went by, I gradually found it easier to accept help and even to ask for help when I faced tasks that I could not do by myself. This change took years to occur. I moved from one apartment to another many times without anyone's help. Why? Because, I was perfectly capable of doing so. Granted, it was hard work, but I could do it. I believed that if I could do it myself, I should. Does this sound like I believed "God helps those who help themselves"? What I didn't realize then was that by not asking for help, I was denying my Christian brothers and sisters an op-

portunity to demonstrate their love by doing a good work for my benefit. I had physical burdens they could have helped me with, but I said, "No, thanks" and denied them an opportunity to "bear one another's burdens". I still sometimes find it difficult to ask for help, especially for "fix-it" jobs around the house that I could do myself. However, instead of always planning on doing those jobs by myself, I now try to sort through the items on my to-do list and pick out the ones that would be very difficult for me to do by myself. Those are the tasks that I ask my Christian brothers to assist me in completing. We need to learn to maintain a balance in the roles we fill as the helper and the helped. As God's Spirit leads us, we can achieve that balance and learn when to say, "I'd like to have your help," or "I appreciate your offer, but I would like to do it myself," or "may I help you with that".

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By, Jerry Ousley

ome time ago we went to a family reunion in Kentucky; specifically in a town of Eastern Kentucky. In order to get to where we were going, we had to drive down a very curvy and winding road that took us deep into the hills and hollows of the area. It was beautiful. As we drove down the road I was admiring the beautiful homes and old rock walls that had been built before the Civil War, thinking, "Man this sure would be a nice place to live." Of course everyplace has its appeal as well as its drawbacks. Suddenly we came upon a house that just didn't fit in with the rest of them in the area. If it was an old plantation house, it had not been kept in good shape. On the hill behind it was an old yacht. Yes, I said yacht, and it was sitting on concrete

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blocks. The Kentucky River did run through the area, but judging from the size of that boat and the narrow road we were driving on I immediately asked the question, "How did they get that thing up there!" It was most definitely out of character. From a closer examination of the boat it looked like someone was actually living in it. I suppose we could look at that in two different ways; it might have looked out of place, but it was also a good use of a big boat! I suppose they could have been preparing just in case God decided to destroy the earth again with a worldwide flood. However, according to the Bible, if that was their goal, they had a long, long wait, because God plainly said in Genesis that He would never do that again. It was a big boat on dry land. The story of Noah, in some ways, may have

seemed just as silly to the folks of his day. People of the earth had become so wicked that God was almost sorry He had even created mankind. His decision was to destroy the entire earth with a flood. There was only one righteous man to be found and that was Noah. Since God didn't want to be unfair to Noah, He told him what He was about to do and gave Noah a plan to preserve the lives of mankind and all the animals by building a big boat. This had never been done. In fact, according to the Bible in Genesis, it had never ever rained. It is entirely possible that all the land at that time was one big land-mass. The very idea of a flood anywhere, let alone a worldwide flood was preposterous. Noah began his work constructing this huge boat out in the middle of the land with no water anywhere around it; at least that's the way Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve pictured it. They all thought he was out of his

mind. The Bible indicates that he was mocked and ridiculed for his decision to obey what God had told him. Have you ever found yourself in the same type of situation? Where you have felt the words of God strongly in your heart and He has given you a clear plan, at least as to how to begin; and you want to be obedient to Him, but other people around you tell you that it can't be done, or that you are foolish because that's not the way it's been done in the past. Many have turned back on what God has spoken to them in their hearts because of ridicule or the shame others put on them because they chose to be different and obedient to God. I want to tell you today to have the faith of Noah. This man spent one hundred years building this big boat. He probably became the joke of the town because of his faithfulness to what God had told him to do. In the end his faithfulness was rewarded.

What God has told us to do may not affect the entire world as it did for Noah, but it does affect other people. Your obedience to God could be the key that opens the door to multitudes facing great decisions in their lives. It could be the levy that holds back a flood of bad things. No one knows for sure except God. Following His plan and what He tells us to do has meaning and we may never fully realize the entire impact of it here on this earth. So go ahead; if God is telling you to build a big boat, or set up an old yacht in your backyard, if it is really the voice of God in your heart, do it.

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