2008: This is YOUR year of Victory!

Don't Quit it until you get it...victory is assured to those who endure!

Wow. 2007 was proclaimed the year of the "Open Door" by spiritual leaders across the land. As we shouted over this Word, also note what scriptures says comes with an open door: "…and there are many adversaries" (1 Corinthians 16:9). I don't think any one would have expected all the turbulence that erupted in major ministries this year. It looked like the devil was playing pinball with mega-ministries this year and put it on display for the world to see.

But I hear the Word for 2008 loud and clear - this is our year of VICTORY! Yes, doors were opened with great opportunities along with great opposition. But God is faithful and He wants to reassure us that He has not forsaken us and always to remember that He is the source of victory.

No matter what didn't come to pass in 2007 or what heartbreaks happened, it's a new day and we're going after things a new way!

When there are difficult times - know incredible things are on the horizon. It's always darkest before the dawn - so don't give up. Keep fighting. Know we win in the end. It's in the Book!

We were born to win! So it's time we act like it, talk like it and walk in it. We were birthed with a purpose and hand-made by God in His image.

As with any victory, there are challenges, struggles and sometimes an out and out battle that precedes it. But remember if God is on our side, we win! I'm a living testimony.

Though I've gone through some trials this year, I've learned these hard times actually made me stronger. Once I passed through the valley, I experienced my greatest breakthrough on the other side. With every new level, there was a new "devil" waiting in the wings to steal my destiny - but I was wiser and stronger with each test I went through because I really believed that:


- I was more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37)
- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil 4:13)
- God was perfecting all that concerns me (Psalm 138:8)
- Greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4)


God equipped us all with the tools to win the battle and the war if we just keep going and don't throw in the towel. As my pastor, Dr. Stacia Pierce says, "Don't quit it until you get it." A dream delayed in not a dream denied.


Here are some strategies to keep a victorious attitude all year and remain undefeated:

1. Don't panic, worry or complain. Set your mind and keep it set on victory. When things seem to skid off the tracks, minimize the situation and maximize your time with God. The Word says, "Be still and know that I am God" (Ps. 46:10). God is bigger than your problem; greater than your issues. 2008 will be great if we keep the faith. Fear will die and courage will flourish when you take time and get alone in the presence of God. It's hard to complain about the minuscule when you're in the presence of the omniscient, omnipotent God. Enter into His rest; trust Him. God promises in Isaiah 43:2-3: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God." You can't worry and worship at the same time. So make it a habit to worship God with all your heart - He loves you.

2. Embrace your calling, claim your dream & define your goals. Be serious about success and don't compare yourself with others. Finding and fulfilling your own destiny is victory. By honing in on your own God-given gifts and talents will prevent you from being side-tracked by envy and jealousy which opens the door to negativity and adversity. Real winners keep their heart pure and focus on achieving more, doing more and reaching for more so they can live their dreams and make an impact on others. Winners are mission-minded. Run the race that God called you to run.

3. Fight back, be bold and very courageous. Your dreams are worth it. Know that battle is only temporary and we win when we fight using the weapons God has provided us: soak up the Scriptures so you can consistently confess the Word and declare victory over your situation; fasting to sharpen your spiritual sensitivity to hear God's voice; get rid of offence and walk in love and forgiveness; sow seed expecting a miracle because the law of reciprocity works; and praise God before you actually see the victory. That's proof of true belief.

4. Get wisdom, knowledge and understanding. The more you know, the more you grow. Readers are leaders. Study the champions. Read about great men and women. Meditate on biblical heroes like Joseph, Paul, David or Esther. Stay inspired. Create a prayer circle. Listen to godly advice from mentors. Ignorance can be deadly. "My people are destroyed from lack on knowledge" (Hosea 4:6). Continually expand your mind and learn from good books.

5. Give God time to work. Stand firm, stay strong and be patient in the process. Promotion follows adversity. Expect it. Get your eyes on the bigger picture. Feed your faith and don't lose hope. Life is a marathon not a sprint. Be tough; avoid the victim mentality when you get weary. Visualize success and keep faith photos of your goal before you. Patience is a weapon. "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9).

6. Stay focused. Your battle deserves your full attention. We only lose because of broken focus. Eliminate distractions and toxic people from your life. You'll be sure to get the victory when you keep your focus and full of joy. If we just learn to outlast the enemy, we win. When the enemy sees you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you'll move forward into greater realms of victory.

The key is to stay the course with God. Endurance is rewarded - always. "With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies." Psalm 60:12



Shoot me an email and I'll send you a list of great books that will keep you on track to reach your dreams and walk in victory in 2008 and beyond - pamperry@ministrymarketingsolutions.com

Spotlight on Author: Catherine Eagan, The Wealthy Woman

Catherine Eagan Dedicates Her Life to
Leading Christians to “The Wealthy Place” by Shekini Jennings for MMS Newswire

Many people in the country are wringing their hands trying to figure out how to survive in the current struggling economy. But, Catherine Eagan is trying to help people become part of God’s thriving supernatural economy.

It’s a revelation that Eagan received in God’s perfect timing as retiring baby boomers are trying to figure out how to manage their wealth, younger people are just beginning to learn about finances, and others are discovering for the first time that retirement is no longer an option.

“In this time, people are going through a lot of different challenges,” said Eagan, a member of Word of Faith Christian Center. “It’s important to have a kingdom objective. We’re getting more in debt. The message of building wealth challenges all of us to build wealth so we can have financial the wherewithal and establish the Kingdom of God whether you’re young or old.”

Eagan is an entrepreneur, ordained minister and a former Vice President and Private Banking Officer, with a 25-year financial background.

She said the foundation for tapping into God’s economy includes giving and receiving, purpose, seedtime and harvest, tithes and offerings, and God’s principles. This opens the door for budgeting, debt elimination, credit repair, insurance planning, investment planning, and estate planning to affectively fall in line with proper instruction that can be found in Eagan’s book, “Dominating Money: Tapping Into God’s Supernatural Economy”.

“From a Biblical standpoint God wants us to provide for our family, our children, and our children’s children,” Eagan said. “There’s a difference between riches and wealth. Riches can come overnight through the lottery, but that doesn’t mean you know how to sustain it. Wealth is for the kingdom of God and … the greater good of humanity and society. Henry Ford wanted to provide a vehicle for people to ride in and came up with the process of mass production. When people meet the needs of others on a mass scale it lends itself to wealth.”

Eagan has been doing this in her own life through a balanced combination of informational clubs, books, and other merchandise and services that she sells, in addition to a 40-city Wealthy Women Seminar Tour and weekly teleseminars that she has offered for free. The tour has blessed more than 3,000 women across the country and the teleseminars draw 100 to 200 participants each week as far away as Canada and the Caribbean. She wants to make sure there is no excuse for Christians to not reach the “wealthy place” where they have successfully learned to dominate in the areas of business and finance.

Other books she has authored with her husband, Dr. J. Victor Eagan, include “How to Discover Your Purpose in 10 Days”, “How to Determine Your Motivational Gift”, and “The Character of Success”.

Eagan’s reason for doing everything she does is so that God’s people realize that wealth is for them, despite their current or past financial situation. Even someone who doesn’t have any money can go from 0 to wealth.

“John Johnson asked his mother to sell her furniture,” Eagan said. “She sold it for $500 and he started Ebony Magazine. John Rockefeller was a high school dropout, but he pursued business. Oprah Winfrey had nothing, but … now she owns Harpo production. God’s raising people who are going to be world changers.”

More life-changing, kingdom-building principles will be disclosed at the Kingdom Millionaire Intensive and Vision Gala in Boca Raton, Florida. For more information, or to register, call (561) 338-0009 or log onto www.catherineeagan.com.

Pastors Lyle and Deborah Dukes selected as national spokespersons

Mega-Church Pastors, Lyle and Deborah Dukes, Selected as National Spokespersons for the American Heart Association's Combat Against Stroke in the Black Community

Turn your BLOG into a book! Get instant feed back

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Need help? This book is a healing for your soul! Dr. Dan is the new Dr. Phil for Christians!

Psychologist empowers emotional trauma survivors by teaching how distress works and applying universal truths
Journey to wholeness masterfully combines behavioral health and faith solutions


Philadelphia, Penn. (2007) - There's enough tribulation, tragedy and turmoil in our world to drive a person over the edge. Managing insurmountable circumstances and coping with situations that are traumatic, have left many people - Christians included - drowning in their pain.

Everyone experiences emotional trauma at some point in their lives. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has become an unwelcome "neighbor." PTSD can be brought on by everyday tragedies such as the death of a loved one, financial distress, or even relationship conflicts. Extreme circumstances like 9/11, the war in Iraq and more recently with the Virginia Tech massacre have increased the incidence of PTSD.

But now there's real help and hope for those who feel they are at the point of a mental breakdown or besieged by devastating life problems.

For anyone struggling with emotional, mental or destructive patterns of behavior, Dr. R. Dandridge Collins has provided effective tools and invaluable resources for getting help. He is a Philadelphia-based psychologist, ordained minister and adjunct professor at Palmer Theological Seminar who has penned a book entitled THE TRAUMA ZONE: Trusting God for Emotional Healing (Moody/Lift Every Voice Publishers) released this year.

"The book teaches readers how to cope with overwhelming stress by understanding how trauma works, developing an individualized plan of self-care and taking your power back by trusting God for peace," said Dr. Collins.

"No other self-help book on trauma integrates the emotional work and Christian faith."

In the eerie, classic television show The Twilight Zone, characters caught in the zone wanted nothing more than to return to normal life. Similarly, survivors of severe trauma fall into The Trauma Zone - a place they want to escape from, but can't.

In the book, THE TRAUMA ZONE, people learn how to:
Cope with emotions such as depression, anger, anxiety, grief
Get free from the pain of the past
Get unstuck, get up and thrive in life
Break destructive habits by getting to the root issue
Face reality and create a life of peace and joy

Dr. Collins provides life-changing action steps, scriptures and simple prayers to help readers gauge their own readiness for recovery and find permanent solutions to their issues. Also included is a plethora of self-help resources, recommended readings and a section that shows a reader how to select a support person to help with the healing journey.

"Emotional trauma has the capacity to spin you in circles. You will need lots of support. Just when you think you have loosed yourself from its grip, trauma pulls you back and laughs at your face. Despite the setbacks, do not despair. God's ability to heal is stronger than trauma's ability to wound," says Dr. Collins.


About the Author:Dr. R. Dandridge Collins, who has more than 25 years experience in the healthcare field, earned a BS in Psychology and Spanish with a minor concentration in French from Eastern University. He completed a Masters of Divinity in Pastoral Psychology at Palmer Theological Seminary. He Earned his Ph. D. in Counseling Psychology at Temple University as a Bilingualism Fellow. Dr. Collins is currently the proprietor of the Pastoral Counseling Network and lives in PA with his wife and family. For more information, go to http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=7sxl54bab.0.0.w5cuwzaab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thetraumazone.com%2F&id=preview.

To schedule an interview with author Dr. Collins, contact Pam Perry at 248.426-2300 or email info@MinistryMarketingSolutions.com.

The book entitled, The Trauma Zone: Trusting God for Emotional Healing (ISBN: 0802489893), by Dr. R. Dandridge Collins, retails for $13.99, and is available in fine bookstores nationwide including Borders, Barnes & Noble, Family Christian Stores and at Amazon.com. See this month's Black Expressions too.
Link for book: http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=7sxl54bab.0.0.w5cuwzaab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.traumazone.com%2F&id=preview
Click the blue link for"Healing" video by Kelly Price

For media interviews or review copies contact:
Ministry Marketing Solutions, Inc.
Pam Perry, literary publicist
mailto:%20info@ministrymarketingsolutions.com
Moody Publishers, one of the most trustworthy publishers in the Christian publishing industry, has partnered with the Institute for Black Family Development in the creation of a joint imprint - Lift Every Voice. The vision for this endeavor is to see African-American Christians encouraged in their faith through quality books by African-Americans. The company, based in Chicago , Illinois , has been in business since 1941.

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Bonnie St. John Debuts new book on Today Show!

First African-American Winter Olympic Ski Racer Beats the Odds, Shares Prayer Secrets of Strong Women

 

Visit www.Bonniestjohn.com for book tour schedule

visit www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com for press kit and media info

Six Simple Steps to Success in ANYTHING!

I want to share with you six steps you can take that will help you experience all that the Lord has planned for your life.

Step 1: Slow Down. To really enjoy life you have to slow down and appreciate the journey! One of Satan's tricks is to get us focused on the future that we can't enjoy the present. God's desire is that you enjoy the entire journey! The psalmist said: " This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:24). Rejoice today- not tomorrow!

Step 2: Be Yourself. The Bible says in Romans 12:6. " We have different gifts, according to the grace given to us. " God has a unique, specific plan for your life. To experience the joy He has set before you, run your race. Only you and God really know the person He has made you to be, and what He wants you to do. In Jeremiah 29:11 God states: " I know the plans I have for you.... plans to prosper you...plans to give you hope and a future (an expected end)."

Step 3: Lighten Up. We need to learn to laugh! Laughter is a wonderful gift from God that helps us to more fully enjoy life. Proverb 17:22 says: " A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones." There is healing power in a cheerful attitude!

Step 4: Be Positive. Isaiah 61:3 encourage us to put on " a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." Sometimes you just have a choice to make... you have to put on the garment of praise. Be positive in those negative situations you face, in the tough times of life, as well as when everything is going great. Don't let your joy be dependent on your circumstances.

Step 5: Refuse to worry. Worry is a destructive force that can easily keep us from fulfilling our God- given destiny. It's important that we learn to resist the temptation to worry. Isaiah 26:3 say that God "will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because He trust in you." We need to fix our mind on God, and replace worry with faith. Worship beats worry every time!

Step 6: Live to Give. Most people think they will be happy when they get everything they want. But actually, the opposite is true! The more we live for self, the more miserable we become. Jesus said to His followers, " let him forget, ignore, disown and lose sight of himself and his own interest." (Mark8: 34). When you are ready to experience real joy, give your life away. Live to give. Jesus did! (Jesus was a networker.)

Pam Perry www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com

Jesus, the Networker

I have always been wired to network. I love sharing information; connecting cool people with other cool people, seeing groups come together for a common cause. There’s strength in numbers. Jesus said, “I can of mine own self do nothing” (John 5:30).

Because networking is so much a part of my personality, I have been teased a lot. I had even begun to think I was a bit strange – until I realized Jesus was a networker. He had to be. He took twelve folks and revolutionized the world. He had a life-changing message that He imparted into mankind through the networking of men. The twelve disciples told some people, and they told some people, and so on and so on...

Isn’t that what life is all about? No man is an island – we all need each other. How could anyone have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior if they had not heard the Gospel? And how can they have heard without someone telling them? (Romans 10:14). That’s the ultimate “network.” Hooking people up to the “true vine” because Jesus said, “apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:1 and 5).

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King talked about networking too. He said, “As long as there is poverty in the world I can never be rich, even if I had a billion dollars...I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be. No individual or nation can stand out boasting of being independent. We are all interdependent.”

Networking is not always about getting. It’s really about giving. Actually, you’re more blessed when you give than when you receive (Acts 20:35). I have a passion for God which has caused me to have compassion for people.

We must be set on helping people. Ephesians 4:3 says, “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” When we network together, we weave a bond of ultimate power. Creating alliances and cultivating relationships is critical today especially in business.

It is painful to me when I see “lone rangers” and those folks floating encased in their own bubbles. They will never experience a full, abundant life because they are afraid to step out of their comfort zone. Or they’re just too proud to ask people for help or too selfish to even think about anyone else. These attitudes are totally against the Word of God.

God’s Word tells us to walk in love. Perfect love will cast out fear (1 John 4:18) and when we are walking in love, we esteem others higher than ourselves. We not only look out for our own interests but also the interests of others (Philippians 4:3-4). Our love for God is expressed by our love for each other.

Networking is love in action (see 1 Corinthians 13). The master networker, best-selling author of “Success Runs in Our Race” and publisher of the Success Guide, George C. Fraser said, “I think success really involves the situations you get yourself into and the people you meet. No one can be successful by themselves. It’s the relationships that you develop with the people around you. Throughout my life, I’ve had people who helped me do better.”

Success does run in our race. Fraser has been on a mission to link African Americans together for the betterment of them all. For ten years, he has published The Success Guide to accomplish this goal. More than an upscale directory of contacts, it is the only vehicle that has African American professionals from 7 different countries and 75 cities. “It’s networking in an instant with real people getting real results,” said Fraser.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 25:39 to “love your neighbor as yourself.” This is the key to a successful life. Another recurring phrase in the Bible is “one another.” We are to: love, instruct, encourage, stir up, lift up, rejoice with, prefer, serve, pray with, submit to, admonish, minister to, fellowship with and edify ONE ANOTHER. Sounds like networking to me.

Nobody gets to the highest peaks without help of others. Networking is the identification of relationships for the purpose of sharing information and resources. Taking time for people and communicating is the key. Don’t ever get too busy to share information or your wisdom.
Get the right attitude about networking and begin to open up and give. Hook up with like-minded folks and kindred spirits. Moving ahead often involves reaching out and being willing to give. We reap what we sow._________________________________________

Pam Perry is the president/founder of the Detroit Chapter of the American Christian Writers Association (www.Acwriters.com). Her work has also appeared in Gospel Today magazine, The Detroit News, The Detroit Free Press, CBA Marketplace Magazine, Precious Times Magazine, Christian Covenant News and The Christian Communicator. www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com to network with Pam Perry. Sign her elist!

Finding Your Place Called There...

Finding Your Place Called There...
In Business Sandra Steen urges business owners
to create a “kingdom explosion” in the marketplace

“Life, energy, passion and excitement
surround us,” says Sandra Steen as she
suddenly moves to the whiteboard for
an illustration. “I believe being successful
in business and in life means being
purpose-driven.” She begins to draw,
“Here’s your purpose in the center and
here’s life all around it. If everything you
do is not directly connected to your
God-given purpose, then your ability
to be impactful in any area of life is in
danger. You can’t work for God’s kingdom
and be out of place – finding your
place called ‘there’ is not a destination,
but a journey.”

According to Steen, we have a responsibility
to understand our purpose.

“Life fulfillment and joy comes from understanding
your purpose,” she explains.
“When you’re not operating in purpose,
joy robbers like frustration and jealousy
prevent you from realizing joy and experiencing
true, God-given success.”

Steen’s message is captivating. And
her voice reaches corporate America,
serving an impressive list of Fortune
500 clients such as SONY, Proctor and
Gamble, SBC, JCPenney, Frost Bank,
H-E-B, and Wal-Mart.

Companies hire Sandra Steen because
she speaks a purpose driven
message that provides a rare blend of
bold energy, incredible enthusiasm and
life-changing information.
Steen’s workshops target spirit, inspiration,
motivation and destination.

For more than 13 years, Steen’s clients
have come back and remained loyal to
her philosophy. “They always tell me or
my staff that their business experiences
dynamic breakthroughs and environmental
changes following each session.

Changes that occur once the individual
realizes their inner purpose and capture
abundant and joyous living.”
Steen credits her first speaking engagement
to the church. She was just
six years old when she realized her life’s
calling, and faced the task of addressing
her church’s congregation to deliver a
five-minute speech. She was undaunted.
Instead of shrinking in fear, she strode
to the podium, seized hold of the microphone,
and exceeded her allotted
time, gaining strength and confidence
with each word.

Sandra Steen shares a message that
transcends all levels of life, from the
corporate businessperson, to the entrepreneur
to the stay-at-home mom.

According to Steen, when people find
their purpose, the next step is to act
on it. She is extraordinarily skilled at
encouraging people to find a vision and
the motivation to take action.

“I don’t have the power to change
your life,” Steen explains, “You do. I
can plant the seeds, but ultimately each
person has the ability to take action that
will bring about change.”

Sandra Steen’s message of purposeful
living is recognized internationally. She
has shared her message all over the
globe, from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Sydney,
Australia and now in her own home
court – San Antonio.

In addition to working with Fortune
500 companies, Steen has recently partnered
with churches, non-profit organizations
and educational institutions.
“Here’s what I ask myself, ‘Is God
interested in building any kingdom
other than his?’” Steen shares that her
kingdom perspective has been greatly
expanded under the teaching of Rick
Godwin, Senior Pastor of Eagles’ Nest
Christian Fellowship. Steen has been
a long-time member of ENCF. Steen
shares, “Rick’s messages continue to
create life-changing experiences in my
life; this life is not about me – it’s about
the impact and experience that I create
for others.

I am convinced that creating a “kingdom
explosion” removes us from the pattern
of business as usual. Our assignment
in life is to be rightly positioned. Being
in that right place is powerful for the
corporation as well as for the individual.
I believe that when you are in your right
place, everyone should benefit from your
presence.”

In an ongoing effort to partner with
the community and the church, Sandra
Steen is speaking at Family Praise
Center’s Winner’s Circle on September
10, 2005. Family Praise Center (FPC),
a multicultural church with over 4,000
members and two locations in San Antonio,
began in 1993. In 1997, they began
a marketplace ministry forum called
Winner’s Circle. Designed to equip the
businessperson with both information
and resources, its quarterly session has
an attendance of nearly 100 business
owners, entrepreneurs and corporate
executives.

“My passion is excellence and I look
for it everywhere, in business and in
people.” declares Steen. I love what
FPC is doing with business people – it’s
cutting edge. The church should deliver
the same level of service to its members
that we would expect any corporation
to deliver to its top clients.”

The Winner’s Circle was created to
provide an opportunity for local business
owners to network their talents
and resources. We are about equipping
them with the principles and tools to be
successful spiritually, emotionally, and
financially,” states Will Norris, Minister
of Education at FPC.

“We’ve partnered with Sandra Steen
in the past and we’ve seen the incredible
fruits of her work. We don’t take it lightly
that she is joining with us for our third
quarter event and know that she will
deliver a relevant message.”

“The amazing thing about Sandra
Steen is that she understands the dynamics
of marketplace ministry, it’s not
about you, it’s about the kingdom of
God. That’s what makes her message a
perfect fit.”

Sandra Steen, an internationally
renowned inspirational speaker and
author, has won business audiences
over with her positive messages of
joy, fulfillment and purpose. She is the
President and CEO of Sandra Steen &
Associates, Inc., an international speaking,
training and consulting firm, started
in San Antonio in May 1993.
For more information on Sandra
Steen and Sandra Steen & Associates,
Inc. contact 210.804.0655 or visit www.sandrasteen.com.

“If everything you do is not directly connected
to your God-given purpose, then your
ability to create a meaningful impact in any
area of your life and the lives of others is in
danger.” “You can’t work for the kingdom
and be out of place – finding your place called
“there” is not a destination, but a journey.”
– Sandra Steen

The Media, The Message and The Mind

What are you putting in your eye gate?
By Pamela Perry, Ministry Marketing Solutions Inc.


I am mad. I am fed up with a media and its negative influence on our thought life. Kids (and those who don’t know any better) and especially susceptible. Media has created monsters that kill, steal and destroy. We are hit by millions of messages daily and most of those messages deteriorating our morals, our family life, our society overall.

Media messages surround us daily- all day. We wake up to clock radios, flick on the TV and grab the newspaper. On the way to work, as we listen to subliminal negative messages in music or depressing, sensationalized news. We see billboards reminding us of the latest alcohol drink. Once at work, the bulletin boards are filled with more foolishness, or our e-mail has some outrageous filth from anonymous sources. When we get home, more junk mail to sort through. Our TV entertainment is not motivating. Even our tape/CD or book clubs have fewer and fewer selections of inspiring, nourishing messages.

I am tired of Harry Potter casting “spells” on our children. Why would I want my daughter to be fascinated by witches, sorcerers and other creatures of darkness? I am sick of the rap music that promotes hatred and violence. I am stunned by movies and music videos that pump visions of illicit sex and soft pornography into the minds of babes.

Then there’s the internet with a new form of perversion all together. A friend of mine told me that her son was almost kicked out of college for spending too much time surfing websites created for “adult entertainment”. He got caught up and spent more time with that stuff instead of the books.

Wonder why the world is so messed up? Garbage in—garbage out. What you think about, you become. When you run around with a head full of junk, you do stupid stuff. The media prods with every step. Somebody is always promoting something. We are in the Information Age with tons of messages tossed around daily. What are you promoting? But more importantly, what are you taking in?

The Information Age is good because the information that God wants to get out will get out quicker, faster and more profound than ever. Media is not our master. Jesus is Lord and Master. He has given us a better message and the bible has all the answers.

My career in public relations has really enhanced my awareness of the power of the media. Its impact could make or break a career or make someone an instant “millionaire.” Ad agencies spend millions of dollars to create images. For many, media is the compass of their life. Whatever the media spews out people take in and shape their opinions around it or buy whatever it’s selling. Some people believe the voice of Oprah rather than their own “still, small voice” within. Who or what do you believe?


That’s why it is so important that Believers take back the media. The world needs the message of the gospel and is waiting for it. We must inject messages of faith to counter the messages of fear. It’s time to reverse the demonic assaults that have plagued airwaves and our thought-waves. The time is now to market the message to the masses! The violent take it by force (Matthew 11:12).

I yelled “Look at God!” in the middle of Walgreen’s on September 12 when I saw Bishop T.D. Jakes on the cover of Time magazine. Do you think that was a coincidence or does God have a plan? As the nation prays, God is enlarging our territory according to the prayer of Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:10).

When we spend hours and hours soaking in junk TV, reading garbage magazines instead of feeding our mind with life—the Word of God, we are destroying ourselves. We have a choice of life or death; prosperity or disaster. The Bible instructs us in the way to live to have success, “Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it (the Bible). Only then will you succeed” (Joshua 1:8 NLT). James 1:27 say, “refuse to let the world corrupt us” (NLT).

Don’t get sucked in by the media mess, guard your heart with all diligence. If the devil wanted to enter your mind, would you let him in if he knocked on the door? No. He knows he has to come very deceptively. He comes center-stage disguised as a message you have been enticed to receive. Don’t be deceived by Satan’s devices. Reject his junk!

Our world has changed dramatically since we’ve witnessed terrorism first hand, up close on our U.S. shores. We’re not as comfortable as we used to be. A lot of sleepy Christians are now awake and see that the time is now to “be a witness” (Acts 1:8). it’s time to fight the good fight of faith! The media is that last frontier and the devil is trying to pull out all his junk and spew out fear, hate and corruption. But read the end of the Book; we win! Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that “Jesus is Lord.”

The media has power, but God has ALL power. Who are you going to follow?

Pam Perry is 20-year PR professional and the chief visionary of Ministry Marketing Solutions Inc., a public relations and marketing consulting firm in Farmington, Michigan. Visit www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com. She has weekly podcasts and free daily eblasts on media and ministry. Also see her myspace at www.myspace.com/pamperryprcoach

Power to Achieve God's Plan

Achieving Your Divine Potential by Bishop Jim Lowe

In this book, readers will learn practical ways to:

Train your mind to be increasingly receptive to the revelation of Holy Spirit of God.

Increase the potential for the power of God to work within you and in your life.

Develop the confidence to tackle any challenge and triumph over it.

Learn how to break the shackles of bondage imposed by years of improper thinking.

Using simple and practical principles learn how to position yourself in the will of God.

Learn how to use biblical meditation techniques to transform your way of thinking and improve your quality of living.

Come to realize and utilize the divine power that God has made available to you to overcome all problems in your life.

Discover the general and specific will of God for you and then learn how to cooperate with the power of God to bring his will to pass for you.

Develop a more personal and intimate relationship with God.

Learn how to create a positive environment for the miraculous to occur in your life.

Available on Amazon.com and in fine bookstores eveywhere.

http://www.guidinglight.org/

Can you pick out the Christian in this photo?

The Celebrity Ministry Today

By Pam Perry

Has “next level” living caused some Christian folk to get it twisted in terms what it means to look better? Should ministers look like “rock stars” and “centerfolds?”

Oh, I’m not hating - but I am concerned. Too much of anything will spoil you and make you rotten to the core – especially if you’re not grateful. Too much media – too much TV, too much press, too much exposure, too much fame, too many “fans.” The American Idol syndrome is alive and well in the church today.

Christian media has really mushroomed and has created a new culture of “preacher celebrity.” Which is dangerous – because along with celebrity comes E.G.O. (Edging God Out) symptoms.

What are the symptoms?
Fans. Yes, fans that flock and just want autographs to so they can brag to their friends. And preachers stopping and actually giving autographs!
Believing your own press. Not knowing what’s real and what’s just good marketing material.
Not acknowledging the blessings that come from God and letting an attitude of “entitlement” creep in. (“I’m supposed to have a limo, jet, 10 first-class tickets for me and my entourage”)
Treating others badly. This is the biggy. Ministers are servants. When does the servant become more important than those whom they serve?

In the scriptures, Jesus says, “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me.” I wonder if Jesus came back today would He be encouraged or discouraged by the state of ministry today – too many ministers seem to covet the gospel spotlight instead of seeking to serve.

Everyone seems to want fame and fortune – celebrity ministry is attracting more people to become “preachers” – but recent research says that church membership overall is on the decline. What’s up with that?

I am a publicist and I believe in marketing – putting your best foot forward and getting people “out there.” But I’m afraid that with those in ministry today there is too much emphasis on the superficial stuff and not the real substance.

Preachers and ministers need to practice more humility today. Let them rest on the promise that the meek will inherit the earth – not those who can draw the largest TV audience.

Yes, you must have a good package on the outside – but it’s the interior (the Message) I’m called to market. My mission is to market the MINISTRY MESSAGE so that more hear the gospel.

I can’t market a product that doesn’t deliver. That’s false advertising – no matter how good the ad looks – if it is not delivering on its promise – I’m not buying it!


Comments anyone?

Purpose by Adriana Zamot for MMS Monday Magazine Motivational Feature

A few months back there was a poll on IWM asking the question, "Are you living your life’s purpose?" This is a question that I asked because it has been one of great struggle for many people I have talked to. It was great to see that there were a few that were living their purposed filled lives. However, for those that struggle to understand or are still trying to figure it out, here are a couple of truths to be reminded of.

The first is that God has a task for each of us to accomplish. Can you believe this? I mean does this register with you? In Ephesians 2, Paul tells us, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them" (verse 10 NKJV). Believe it! God has something for you to do.
The next thing we should know is that there is a purpose for that task and God is directing our lives towards that purpose. In Ruth 2 we read about when Ruth went to glean and "just so happened" to end up in the field owned by Boaz who "just so happened" to be a relative. This was not just a serendipitous moment. It was God orchestrating Ruth’s steps.

You will find another great example in the book of Esther. We see God’s sovereignty throughout her story. God had a purpose and it was going to be fulfilled. But we also see in both these examples of Ruth and Esther that they there were open and willing to follow His leading.

In my own life I see how he has orchestrated incredible moments. What about you? Think back to those moments he has given you a "just so happened" moment.

We all go through difficult situations and moments. Some situations seem to last a very long, long time. But this is when we must be reminded of Job. Suffering does not destroy your life’s purpose. In Job 3:26, Job says that he had no peace, no quietness, no rest, only turmoil. He must have thought, "What purpose do I have here?" He honored God, yet it didn’t seem like anything was right about his life. However, Job did not quit. He pressed on. At the end we read one of my favorite verses in Job 42:1-2 where it says, "I know you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted." So, press on, God’s plan will prevail.

I will admit we get restless; I get restless. I have gotten so restless and said, "Lord, I am not happy here. Get me out…this is not what I’m suppose to be doing." I have felt at times I wanted to crawl out of my skin and move to the place I felt I was supposed to be at (not that I knew where that was). But, I’ve had to understand that God has me right where I need to be.

God will guide you through your journey just as he guided the Israelites. Numbers 15:23 shows us how a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night guided and protected the Israelites as they traveled across the desert. At the Lord’s command they encamped and at the Lord’s command they set out. So wherever we are in our journey, we need to ask God, "What do you want me to do while I’m right here?" Discover your purpose where you are right now.

The next thing we need to be reminded of us to concentrate on finding the special purpose God has for you instead of wishing you were in someone else’s shoes. Don’t evaluate your life’s purpose to that of someone else’s. For instances, there are times I’d like to be
Oprah…..okay laugh. But honestly, I like the ability and influence she has to change things in a grand scale. But guess what, I’m not Oprah and God has me right here changing things in my own circle of influence.
In Numbers 16:8-10, we see Moses calling the Levites on their true motive. The Levites had been separated to oversee the operation of the tabernacle—to minister to the Israelite community. But now they wanted to get the power of the priesthood too. Korah desired the abilities God had given others and it resulted in him losing everything. God has something just for you. You have your very own life’s purpose.
Lastly, we have the greatest example of purpose as fulfilled through the life of Jesus. His purpose as we read in John 6:37 -38 was to follow the will of the Father. That was His purpose. It was not about him, Jesus. It was all about the Father and His love for all of us. Jesus fulfilled his purpose!

My sister, the Father has a purpose for you too. He sees what you can become. Find your purpose…be passionate about your purpose…and move towards your purpose.

Blessings,
Adriana Zamot is editor and publisher of Inspired Women Magazine. IWM began as a two page newsletter when she wanted to share with a few friends some of the highlights of Christian conferences that she had attended. She enjoys writing and sharing of the Lord’s goodness and mercy. Her hope is that IWM will inspire, motivate, and encourage other women towards their divine excellence. Most people refer to her as "AZ." She has a Master Degree in Human Resources Administration and Development. She attends Calvary Christian Center in Ormond Beach, Florida. Visit her website at www.inspiredwomenmagazine.com

You may e-mail Adriana Zamot at publisher@inspiredwomenmagazine.com

Law & Order: The Call To Serve

Exclusive Interview With Dr. Wesley T. Cherry, Sr.
By Roz Gee for MMS News

Neatly attired in a cool water blue checkered shirt and denim jeans with an office adorned in kingly décor landscaped in rich colors. A medieval-like sword positioned in its sheath, left-aligned to his high-back leather chair. Gracefully on the door hangs a royal purple robe with ornate embroidery symbolizing strength, integrity and honor. Upon entering his private abode, a delightful aroma greets you and lingers in an aura of excellence. Yep, you’ve probably guess it by now—all décor kudos goes to his wife! However, there is a new sheriff in town—Dr. Wesley T. Cherry, Sr., Pastor of the progressively expanding Word Alive Church International in Manassas, Virginia, is embarking upon some pretty tall orders to carry out. With his recent appointment and announcement as Bishop-Designate in the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, he serves under the leadership tiers of the Presiding Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr., a stellar leader and exemplary visionary in the body of Christ.

Bishop-Designate Cherry was gracious to meet with MMS for an exclusive interview discussing his background, family, ministry and mission, all of which are Kingdom-centric. Cherry’s demeanor always exudes humility, wisdom, resolve and quiet strength—he has an ardent passion for God and an addictive compassion for the care of His people.

MMS: You come from a lineage of ministers in the Cherry family—tell us about your strong heritage of faith?
Cherry: It’s an amazing heritage and legacy. The Bible speaks of Timothy who first found faith in his mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois and this is similar in respect to my family. There are currently more than 14 ordained clergy persons that represent more than 10 denominations and this is not including those who have gone on already to be the Lord (deceased). My mother’s father was a Methodist Pastor. My own father is a Pastor and has been all of my life. Also, my brother and a host of uncles, cousins and other relatives not just in terms of ministry or para-church ministry, but have served as Pastors in their various callings. It is quite remarkable and the funny thing is I never dreamed I would be a minister—never, ever had an inclination. I thought it but always ran from it and then the call caught up to me.

MMS: When (what year) were you called into the ministry and was there a notable significance surrounding the calling?
Cherry: As we grow in God, we find that God is always there. And when I say that, I mean the calling was always there, I just never acknowledged it. I was never close enough (to God) to listen for the Call. You go through changes, seasons, transitions in life—the move toward adulthood and instances began to occur in my own personal life which caused me to begin to search for answers. I found myself reading the Bible and the more I began to start pushing toward a spiritual orientation; I started recognizing what I never knew as far as the voice of God in my own life. In the meanwhile, I was out there in the world and still in college—living like God didn’t exist. I can remember one night in particular, I had gone to a fraternity-type function and there was a lot of alcohol there. After being intoxicated, I found my way back to my dorm room. Lying in bed, totally inebriated, I declare to you and before God, I heard a Voice saying “You are coming home and you will preach My Gospel.” It scared me so much until I just wrapped up in a pillow and began to ask, “What is this?”, Who is this?” As I now look back over the years, God has a way to get your attention. From that night forward, I was about 21 years old at the time; it was a progressive thing of just searching out God. Even though I had been reared in church, I didn’t employ any of that stuff. I began searching the Bible and didn’t have the tradition to rest on. Started reading in the book of Job and read completely through Job. Then something just shifted on the inside of me. In 1985, at 23 years old, I preached my first message at Mount Nebo Church of God in Rochester, New York. I ministered the 40th Psalm, verses 1-8, titled “Thou Hast Pierced My Ears” (taken from verse 6).

MMS: How long have you been serving in the ministry (at large) and how long have you been in the Pastorate (Word Alive)?
Cherry: In the ministry, since 1985…so 22 years. Served a Pastor in Rochester, NY and certainly, my dad for a stretch (of years) before I moved here to Manassas. Served as a Minister and then Elder while going through the progression at Yeshua Church of God in Christ (Manassas) before hearing God’s voice again to move out and launch into this work at Word Alive in 1994 (totaling 13 years in the Pastorate).

MMS: What are the greatest challenges concerning the Pastorate as you’ve experienced?
Cherry: I think one of the greatest challenges in pastoring is to live what you preach. The reason why I say that is because it’s very clear to me that there is no authority where you don’t walk. So the struggle is then there has to be a submission, a resolve in your life. I can’t lead unless I have already walked where it is I’m trying to lead. Never, ever let it be said that I would preached something I never lived. I would never want to represent a lie in ministry. There is so much of that kind of stuff going on—I have to be true to God and true to myself. It always goes back to me and God.

MMS: Name a few of the greatest rewards concerning the Pastorate and serving God’s people?
Cherry: At the end of the day, I can honestly say as I look at my life. Paul said that I have to be poured out as a drink offering because it’s about us (dealing with us) before we can lead. I find that my greatest reward is—first of all, I believe ministry is not building buildings, all of that will come but you have to build lives. One life at a time. The truth of the matter is when I see someone hit another level—a revelation comes and it hits them. For example Peter when Jesus said, “Who do men say that I am?” and some said this and other said that. But Jesus asked Peter, “Who do YOU say I am?” and Peter said, “Thou art the Christ!” Christ stated that ‘flesh and blood’ did not reveal that unto him. We see that now Peter hits a note, a stride and God speaks to him. It’s when someone awakens to a Voice that’s greater, which leads them to a purpose and destiny. Even if it’s just a small change, they’re now walking in a greater capacity. This is what does it for me—that’s what “floats my boat”. Just to see the light bulbs come on! Even if it infinitesimal (small), I get excited to know they’re hooking the train up to move swiftly toward their destiny and that is what really excites me. It’s an epiphany or “wow” moment for me personally and to know they will become invested in their own “wow” moments.

MMS: What is your life’s passion and personal mission?
Cherry: When I look at the Apostle Paul’s life, he was mentored by a man named Barnabas, the Son of Consolation. He was the Son of Comfort. Barnabas was an Exhorter. I believe I have been given a ministry to exhort people—I have a passion to exhort people to be all they can be. I’m an exhorter. Naturally, I’m an optimist which kind of lends itself to my personality. With that, I see the cup “half-full”, I know it looks half-empty but I rather strengthen what remains. Don’t want to look at what’s gone but consider what’s still here. We can cry about what’s already gone but why not celebrate what’s still here!

MMS: Talk to us about Lady Jan Cherry and how she complements you in ministry and other life areas? Tell us about your family…
Cherry: My wife and I were just talking about this on last night and it’s an amazing thing that opposites really do attract. I’ve found that strength in opposites is an attraction that brings two people to a mutual place. It becomes a powerful strength because in all of my weak areas, she’s there and vice-versa. There is a unity, there is a strength and there is a power that is just irresistible. The only person that can really do all of this is God. Lady J, personality-wise. is a lot different that I am. But at the same time she looks for the same resolve and solutions I’m looking for. Together we do so much better than we could ever do apart. She is my girlfriend. She is my best friend. I can talk to Jan. She is a confidant (trusted friend) in every sense of the word. She is also a warrior too! She can get “hood” on you (“Neighbor Hood” that is—encouraging fellow believers to maintain balance and order). She can run into a phone booth and come out “Lady Hood”. My mom has coined her as “A Little Piece of Leather That’s Well Put Together.” She has an amazing ability to “go there” and still fix your plate afterwards—meaning she doesn’t allow things to linger or fester; she quickly addresses issues and move on. Next.

My two sons—Wesley, Jr. seems to have an inclination and propensity towards leadership in church. Joel has more of a covert, operative type personality. You have to know your children strengths and know where they are and know how to assist them to get them where they need to be. For instance, one of my sons wants to be a Mayor but doesn’t want to volunteer in the mail room on the City Council (teasing). He must understand all of the levels and processes around doing a job of this nature and magnitude.

MMS: What is your view on family-ministry life balance among clergy in the Church?
Cherry: You can never preach what you don’t have a personal conviction for because there’s no power in it. I believe that God is first over everything; secondly, it’s always family. Family must come before church. The first institution God ever created was family. In fact, church came out of family. God created a man, and then man created a method. The method became a machine and the machine became a monument; and then God started to look for another man. All He ever wanted was relationship with a person.


MMS: Talk to us about your involvement and affiliation with the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship?
Cherry: Everyone has streams that flow through them. I have a traditional stream that moved into a Messianic Jewish stream that moved into a Charismatic stream and flowed into a Pentecostal stream. When I was an Elder not in the Pastorate at the time, I was watching a broadcast on one early Sunday morning featuring Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. Inwardly, I asked “Who is this person?” Everything he said, I got it! He began to talk about Holiness, Order, the administration of the Baptist Church, the power of the Pentecostal church, the strong teaching of the Charismatic Church, the history of another Church…all of these streams seem to connect. Yet, he was moving toward a reformation which will include all of these streams. The only way I can say it is, “I GOT IT!” I pondered and met with my Dad because in 1994, when we started Word Alive, I immediately sought for a covering. There was something about Paul Morton’s vision that came from God that I got and immediately connected. It was rich and balanced. We can have excellence. We can have the Spirit of God. We can have administration. We can have history. We can have scholar and “anointed” academia. We are literally the dreams of past generations. We have a presiding Bishop who just embodies and personifies love, concern and mercy. This fellowship, I believe, has the best leaders and innovators in the Body of Christ today. Full Gospel lifts everyone, no matter where you are, to another level.

MMS: Was your recent appointment to the Bishopric shocking or a surprise?
Cherry: It just literally came out of nowhere. You don’t know who’s watching you, ever. When they (Full Gospel leaders) began to pull “to the bench” is what they call it. They looked for faithfulness and I was glad to be numbered among the faithful. So was it a shock? Yes. Was it expected? If this is what comes from faithfulness, without sounding proud, then I receive and accept it. It was a shock; I didn’t think it was going to come this quickly.

MMS: In June, you will be official consecrated as Bishop—it is challenging to celebrate what God has done in you and consider the responsibility and accountability that this high office holds?
Cherry: Bishop Morton said that “I’ve had my eye on you and now I’m placing my hand on you.” The hand means to look back at what has already been done and know what you have been called up into. To be lifted to this place is mind-boggling and I’m a foreigner, if you will, in trying to gain my footing. In terms of bittersweet, the bitter side is the awesome task at hand and the reward for work is always more work.

MMS: With many clergymen and women “coveting” to hold this sacred office—what is your take on what others may perceive as “glamorous” or “in-it-for-the-benes” verses what is really required to be considered for this office?
Cherry: Whenever there’s an authentic move of God, the enemy tries to mimic, he tries to model. There are a lot of people who are using and trying to take the word ‘Bishop’ out of its original context. They go into a phone booth and come out with a ‘B’ on their shirt. People are running into all of these jack-legged organizations and foundations just to be called “Bishop”. One thing I can say about Full Gospel; you can literally trace its apostolic succession back to Peter. Meaning, there’s a true apostolic lineage that has found its way through this move (fellowship) even into the 21st century.

MMS: Let’s talk about the importance of “process” by sharing at least 3 must-have qualities one should possess to be considered for the bishopric?
Cherry: From I Timothy 3, a Bishop must be blameless, vigilant and sober—along with the rest of the qualifications delineated in this passage of text.

MMS: How is your new position and responsibilities going to mesh (interconnect) with the overall mission @ Word Alive Church International?
Cherry: I have pondered that question much and I have seen many who have ascended this hill that now have many issues because I think they didn’t think it through in terms of how it’s going to work practically in the dynamics of what they’re trying to build (achieve). I’ve tried to build a structure here, according to God’s instruction, to walk a certain course and then raise up others to continue to move forward. God said He was going to set me up on a wall and others I have trained, they’re going to keep moving but now I’m repositioning you.

MMS: The great vision of Word Alive is to build a “Kingdom City” in the Manassas/ Northern Virginia area; how do you think this new appointment to Bishop will support that vision?
Cherry: You can’t judge your ministry what others do or don’t do. Yes, God has given instruction to build a city. City means municipality of government. My focal areas are to institute a quality of life; government and to establish and develop educational and financial entities. In addition, next-generation development such as youth programs and facilities are a huge part of the vision. The City will be geared towards self-sustained influences exclusively for the Kingdom of God. In essence, we’re building an “Infrastructure of Influence.”

MMS: Congratulations of your new appointment to the Bishopric in the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International and we pray astounding success and uncommon favor to the Glory of God!
Cherry: To God be the Glory.

Bishop-Designate Cherry will be officially consecrated at the World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia on Tuesday, June 26th, 2007 @ 7:00PM.

Interview conducted and article written by Roz A. Gee, freelance writer and author of the buzzing debut book, beshe woman in progress, Stepping Forth Into Greatness (www.rozgee.com). Roz resides in Northern VA along with her husband James and son Miles. Email her at GeeWriter@aol.com with comments concerning this article.

Greater Christ Baptist Church’s Young Adult Spiritual Life Conference

Helping to Lead a New Generation into the Promised Land


Detroit—Young adults who attend Greater Christ Baptist Church’s 2007 Spiritual Life Conference July 25-29 will know without a doubt that they’re unstoppable.

“Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now: Leading a New Generation into the Promised Land” will feature five full days of powerful, life-changing information delivered by extraordinary spiritual leaders from across the country.

Featured speakers will include Rev. Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman Sr., of Southern Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD; Rev. Solomon Kinloch, Jr. of Triumph Baptist Church in Detroit, MI; and Rev. Jasmin “Jazz” Sculark, of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in York, PA. Sermon, workshop, and panel discussion topics will include dating, marriage, financial stability, stress management, healthy eating, and discovering your purpose.

Reverend Dr. James C. Perkins, pastor of Greater Christ, is excited about the positive future he expects this conference to help create within the targeted 18- to 45-year-olds.

“It’s important that young adults are adequately prepared to continue the Church for generations to come,” Perkins said. “This begins by making sure they themselves are in the right place spiritually, financially, and physically. So this conference will gather like-minded individuals who are serious about making a significant and unceasing difference in this world. Best of all, they’ll receive instruction from young speakers who they can relate to.”

Rev. Donté L. Hickman, Sr. is a remarkable example of what faith in God can do. The pastor of Southern Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD was raised in a single parent home in Edmondson Village under tremendous peer pressure. It seemed as if he would become another statistic. He was expelled from three High Schools living a life that was destined for failure. Nevertheless, with the help of God, the church, his faithful mother and an inner determination he turned his life around.

Rev. Solomon Kinloch, Jr. has been preaching the gospel since the age of 14. Now in his mid 30’s, he has pastored Triumph Baptist Church in Detroit, MI for nine years. During that time, the church has grown from fewer than 100 to about 4,000 members now meeting in three locations.

Rev. Jasmin “Jazz” Sculark pastors the historical more than 100-year-old Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in York, PA. She is the first female called to pastor a Baptist Church in York , PA. She is also founder and president of the Daughter of Thunder Ministry that assists the local church in providing holistic, life changing ministries to youths, singles, young adults and women.

Conference registration is $75. Greater Christ Baptist Church is located at 3544 Iroquois, Detroit. For more information, call (313) 924-6900 or see the church website at www.greaterchristchurch.org.

# # #

From Blues to Evangelism: Dr. Mable John - Her story

One Last Call-and-Response Song With Ray Charles
Led to Lead Backup Singer Heeding God’s Call

By Shekini Jennings, MMS News

Beating the tambourine was nothing new to Dr. Mable John. She had done it for years growing up in the Pentecostal church. But something extraordinarily supernatural happened the last day she did it as the lead backup singer for Ray Charles in 1976.

Following Charles’ famous closing call-and-response song, “What I Say” he ended with the line she’d become accustomed to answering for nearly 10 years: “Baby, let’s go home.” She and the other Raelettes would always answer him with a rousing and melodious repeat, “Baby, let’s go home.”

But this night while exiting the stage she heard an audible voice that was louder than the instruments, singing, and cheering crowd. God boomed: “Let’s go home. I have work for you to do.”

“I told the group and they thought I’d lost my mind,” said the 77-year-old Louisiana-native who now lives in California. “They said, ‘We’re all going home, Mable.”

The three months following this pre-Christmas calling from God in the late 1970’s would prove to be among the most difficult of her life. She had been a devoted Christian since childhood, and had sung Gospel and secular music professionally for more than two decades with the support of her equally devoted family.

She’d sung with some of Gospel music’s most famous people, made her mark as Motown’s first female recording artist, and had written more than 52 songs with Ray Charles. But now she had to make a choice to stop everything in order to understand clearly what God wanted her to do with the next phase of her life. Unbeknownst to her at the time it would include pastoring and novel writing. (She is the author of Sanctified Blues and Stay Out of the Kitchen published under Random House)

So, in March she had a tearful meeting with Ray Charles to tell him she could no longer be his lead backup singer and director of the Raelettes. It was difficult to leave the group of women for whom she’d served as a protective second mother. But it was even tougher for her to feel like she was abandoning a man who’d already endured a life of tragedy.

“I didn’t know how (Ray) was going to take it,” John said. “Everyone else he was close to … either died or just left. I didn’t want him to take it as abandonment. But, he took it just as I prayed he would. He supported my ministry until he died.”

While she was relieved to have Charles’ support, the sibling of famous Blues Singer Little Willie John wasn’t sure how she’d be received by others. She wasn’t even sure that she wanted to totally yield to God’s plans.

“I didn’t want to (be a preacher),” said John who owns Fourth House Music and Otis Music Publishing Group and administers 20 other music publishing companies. “I didn’t like preachers because I’d seen too much dirt from preachers who say one thing and do another. And, I was worried that people wouldn’t accept me because I sang the blues. The older people said Blues was the Devil’s music and if you sang it you were going to Hell. But God told me to tell people about Him, not about me.”

So, that’s exactly what she’s been doing since the late 1980s as an ordained minister for Joy in Jesus Church in California with a doctorate in counseling, and through her leadership of Joy Community Outreach to End Homelessness.

She’s also spreading God’s word through another source she never expected: novels. She is co-author of Sanctified Blues and her newest co-publication, Stay Out of the Kitchen, which is loosely based on her life told through the character Albertina Merci.

“I never intended to write a novel,” John said. “I only wanted to do one book to tell my family story. But David Ritz said the way I explained the Bible and handled people he had a vision that I was the spiritual Angela Lansbury of Murder, She Wrote because I solve the mysteries of the heart. So, he wrote the first book and heard from the publisher within six hours when we originally thought it would take six months.”

Three months prior John had baptized Ritz, a Jewish man, in the presence of 70 other Jewish visitors and pop star, singer Janet Jackson.

So, looking back, she doesn’t regret the tough decision she made more than 30 years ago to obey God’s audible voice on stage with Ray Charles. She has also kept the promise she made to her mother during her years singing secular music.

“My mother knew the singing gift (whether Gospel or secular) came from the Lord,” John said. “She just said she prayed I didn’t go into the world or go crazy and to just hold on to the teaching and training she had given me. She knew I knew the Lord. She just didn’t want me to stray from Him. I never did drugs, smoked cigarettes, or drank alcohol even though I was in the midst of everything that was going on. God kept me that way.”

For more info on Dr. Mable John go to www.mablejohn.com

For more info about the book (Stay Out of the Kitchen) or to get the press kit online: go to www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com (press kits)

Dare to DREAM BIG

Life is too short to be too little. Dream big in 2007. Expect more in 2007. The one thing that separates those who make things happen and those who don’t – is action.

Step out of the boat. Leap – and the net will appear! Believe and trust God. God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.

Dreams can come true. Nothing is impossible with God. You’ve seen it happen for others. You’ve read their stories. Saw their movies. Heard about those who have gone from “rags to riches.” Think about Fantasia (American Idol winner), Chris Gardener (author of Pursuit of HappYness), and Ken Brown (author of From Welfare to Faring Well). All these folks worked hard and believed God.

What else did they have in common that made their dreams come true? Consistent persistence! Great things happen for people who let their dreams be the springboard for great actions.

It’s a spiritual principle: Faith without works is dead. It’s not enough to have a dream – you have to have a plan and work your plan!

This year dare to chart your course. Reignite your vision and be consistent in your persistence in your pursuit. In 2007, incorporate these 7 steps to get your dreams fulfilled:

1. Commit. Make a decision to follow your dreams that the Lord put in your heart no matter what others say. Know with absolute certainty that you will see the vision come to pass because you’re determined and God showed you. Psalm 37:5

2. Be Prudent. Don’t make decisions before knowing all the facts. Work smart and you won’t have to work hard. Prov. 27:12
Be Prepared. Don’t wait until there is an emergency or a deadline before you get moving on project. Successful people plan ahead. Haste makes waste. Prov. 21:31

3. Be focused. Get clear on what you want and don’t get distracted. If something doesn’t put you closer to your goal, drop it. Clarity is power. Prov. 29:18

4. Be diligent. Finish what you start. Remember the end of thing is better than the beginning. If it worth starting –finish it! Prov. 13:4

5. Be Teachable. Don’t refuse good advice and accept instruction. Get all the help you can. All successful people had mentors and role models. Prov. 13:18

6. Be persistent. Be relentless. Tackle every task that God puts before you and expect a blessing. Quitters never win and winners never quit. Press toward the mark. Prov. 24:10


The number one reason most people don’t achieve their dreams is that they don’t have clarity. There is power in focus and visualizing what you want, confessing what you want and doing what you know to do!

As Teresa Hairston of Gospel Today magazine says, “Make your vision vivid.” Write your vision, make it plain and keep the momentum no matter how hard it gets – with God, all things
are possible.

Pam Perry, www.myspace.com/pamperryprcoach

Official "Born Grown" Site

In Born Grown, ordained minister Mary Edwards tells her personal story of struggle and victory with honesty, compassion, and courage. She speaks of how she missed her childhood due to abuse and teen pregnancy. She chronicles a failed first marriage that paved the way for her successful 21 year marriage to Rev. Eddie Edwards, Founder of Joy of Jesus Ministries and the powerful ministry partnership that helped revitalize communities and bring spiritual deliverance. She goes on to sensitively describe his passing and the inspiration that led her to continue and expand her ministry to families, women, writers, and now specifically to widows.

Most importantly, Mary explains, using the example of her own family, the devastating effect of generational curses-and encourages all who labor under them with hope that they can stop the damaging cycle and begin a tradition of generational blessing.

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!
Availailable at God's World - Detroit, MI
Dickson's Bible & Bookstore - Highland Park, MI
Globe Bible Bookstore - Detroit, MI

This dynamic life story is over 200 exciting pages! You may also purchase online at
www.borngrown.com


For more information, call (313) 341-4487
Click for more information & purchase details
Now Playing..."You Are An Heir" by The Tri-City SingersCompliments of: ATLGospel
Meet Minister Mary at one of the following events...
Saturday, June 16, 2007
11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and
6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Booksigning at The Upper Room
23821 Grand River
Detroit, Michigan
(313) 531-5100



Monday, June 18, 2007
6:00 PM

Booksigning at Greater Grace Temple
Conference Room E/F
23500 West Seven Mile Road
Detroit, Michigan

About the Author
Minister Mary Edwards is probably best known for her community revitalization work alongside of her late husband Rev. Eddie K. Edwards. Together they founded the Joy of Jesus Ministries, which is located on the eastside of Detroit near City Airport. This work earned them the 107th Point of Light Award from former President George W. Bush, Sr.
Minister Edwards was the founding director of Camden House, the family life center of the ministry. As a result of this successful outreach, she was chosen to serve as a consultant to the advisory team in our nation's capital commissioned to study the "Root Cause of Substance Abuse." In 1996, Minister Edwards retired from Joy of Jesus and began new initiatives. These include:
· His Lovely Wife Ministries, a support group for women in spiritual leadership.
· The Called and Ready Writers, a Christian writers guild presently consisting of over 55 active writers.
· Widows With Wisdom, her latest ministry, established to help widows make the adjustment to living alone following the loss of their spouses. WWW is an outreach of His Lovely Wife Ministries.
She is the radio show host of "Widows With Wisdom" heard every Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. over Radio Station WLQV (1500 AM). In addition to these ministries, Minister Edwards is the author of seven books, including her autobiography, Born Grown. A significant testimony from her autobiography appears in the very first "Chicken Soup for the African American Soul book released on September 16, 2004. She is an international author and speaker.
Minister Edwards is the mother of two sons, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. You will often hear her quote the scripture from Prov. 13:22, "A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children; and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just." Minister Edwards believes in leaving a legacy behind.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Minister Mary EdwardsP O Box 211018Detroit, MI 48221Email: MinisterMaryEdwards@yahoo.com

Where am I? by Raquel R. Robinson, author

One sunny afternoon my children and I were driving down a familiar road on our way home. Much to my children’s alarm, I slammed on the brakes. Startled they both said, “Mom, what are you doing?” Before I could respond, they along with the other drivers on this four lane road could clearly see why I stopped so abruptly. There was a huge swan stomping and flapping in a frenzy back and forth across the road.

We are accustomed to seeing swans in the lake near our home. There are several man made ponds that they frequent as well. However, I had never seen a swan in the middle of a busy street. I watched this swan feverishly flutter around and disrupt the flow of traffic I imagined he was saying to himself, “Where am I?”

Like that beautiful swan, we often find ourselves out of place and on the wrong path. Sometimes we don’t know that we are out of place. But those around us can clearly see that we have missed our moment of transition, change or even promotion. Usually a swan seems so elegant, graceful and beautiful. However that day, the swan was awkward, a nuisance and in danger. When we remain out of place and on the wrong path we jeopardize all the things we have worked so hard to create in our lives.

It’s Awkward

You know when you have overstayed your time in relationships, partnerships and employment. Something just doesn’t seem to flow the way that it should. During these times, even a very self confident person may begin to second guess their abilities and competence. This may be an opportunity to inventory your skills. If you find them intact, the awkwardness may be a gentle nudge to consider moving to the next level in this area.

You become a nuisance!

When you are out of place, you become a nuisance to other people. People around you try to patiently wait for you to “get it”. But, in the meantime your complacency, apathy, confusion, depression and procrastination (how ever it manifests) becomes annoying. Like a house guest that stays one night too many, people are ready for you to move on with your plans, dreams and vision. It’s frustrating to associate with people who are settling for good enough when living their destiny would improve life for them and the people around them.

It’s Dangerous

When you stay in a place of apathy, complacency and fear, it becomes dangerous. When you fail to get into position you risk missing opportunities. When you stay in a failing relationship, you jeopardize meeting the right person. Being paralyzed by fear will cause you to lose your focus and when you come to your senses, like that swan, you may find yourself out of place and staring into four lanes of oncoming traffic. Sometimes the life and death of your dream all depend on you being where you are supposed to be at the right time.

As I watched the wayward swan and waited for it to cross the road, I noticed how enormous it was. I was shocked to see its’ wing span. Although we were annoyed and frustrated with the jaywalker, everyone stopped to let the bird regroup and pass by. While the swan was out of place, we all slowed to avoid it because of how big and powerful it was. Hitting this bird would have destroyed the front end of most cars. Even out of place, the bird maintained its’ power strength and even beauty. So do you. Ask yourself, “Where am I?” Based on your vision, goals and abilities are you in the right job, relationship, church, business partnerships, organizations, school, etc. If the answer is no, work to regain your focus and develop a strategy to get back on track. We all wander in the wrong direction from time to time. The key is to recognize the wrong turn and quickly make the adjustment. Stop holding up traffic, get out of the road and get headed in the right direction! Your destiny is waiting!


####

Raquel R. Robinson is CEO, Life Strategist and Coach with Making a Change LLC. She is an inspirational speaker and author of Renew, Refocus and Recover! A Road Trip to the Life You Deserve. You can reach her at www.makingachangellc.com.

Building Kingdom Millionaires by Shekini Jennings for MMS Newswire

Catherine Eagan Dedicates Her Life to
Leading Christians to “The Wealthy Place”

Many people in the country are wringing their hands trying to figure out how to survive in the current struggling economy. But, Catherine Eagan is trying to help people become part of God’s thriving supernatural economy.

It’s a revelation that Eagan received in God’s perfect timing as retiring baby boomers are trying to figure out how to manage their wealth, younger people are just beginning to learn about finances, and others are discovering for the first time that retirement is no longer an option.

“In this time, people are going through a lot of different challenges,” said Eagan, a member of Word of Faith Christian Center. “It’s important to have a kingdom objective. We’re getting more in debt. The message of building wealth challenges all of us to build wealth so we can have financial the wherewithal and establish the Kingdom of God whether you’re young or old.”

Eagan is an entrepreneur, ordained minister and a former Vice President and Private Banking Officer, with a 25-year financial background.

She said the foundation for tapping into God’s economy includes giving and receiving, purpose, seedtime and harvest, tithes and offerings, and God’s principles. This opens the door for budgeting, debt elimination, credit repair, insurance planning, investment planning, and estate planning to affectively fall in line with proper instruction that can be found in Eagan’s book, “Dominating Money: Tapping Into God’s Supernatural Economy.”

“From a Biblical standpoint God wants us to provide for our family, our children, and our children’s children,” Eagan said. “There’s a difference between riches and wealth. Riches can come overnight through the lottery, but that doesn’t mean you know how to sustain it. Wealth is for the kingdom of God and … the greater good of humanity and society. Henry Ford wanted to provide a vehicle for people to ride in and came up with the process of mass production. When people meet the needs of others on a mass scale it lends itself to wealth.”

Eagan has been doing this in her own life through a balanced combination of informational clubs, books, and other merchandise and services that she sells, in addition to a 40-city Wealthy Women Seminar Tour and weekly teleseminars that she has offered for free. The tour has blessed more than 3,000 women across the country and the teleseminars draw 100 to 200 participants each week as far away as Canada and the Caribbean. She wants to make sure there is no excuse for Christians to not reach the “wealthy place” where they have successfully learned to dominate in the areas of business and finance.

Other books she has authored with her husband, Dr. J. Victor Eagan, include “How to Discover Your Purpose in 10 Days,” “How to Determine Your Motivational Gift,” and “The Character of Success.”

Eagan’s reason for doing everything she does is so that God’s people realize that wealth is for them, despite their current or past financial situation. Even someone who doesn’t have any money can go from 0 to wealth.

“John Johnson asked his mother to sell her furniture,” Eagan said. “She sold it for $500 and he started Ebony Magazine. John Rockefeller was a high school dropout, but he pursued business. Oprah Winfrey had nothing, but … now she owns Harpo production. God’s raising people who are going to be world changers.”

More life-changing, kingdom-building principles will be disclosed at the Kingdom Millionaire Intensive and Vision Gala in Boca Raton, Florida. For more information, or to register, call (561) 338-0009 or log onto www.catherineeagan.com.

# # #

Christian Fiction & African American book clubs are booming - says Denise Stinson

Denise Stinson, founder, Glory Girls (Walk Worthy Press)
Christian Book Club is Largest in the Country

In less than three years, Glory Girl™ has become the largest African American book club in the country with nearly 2000 members in 40 states as well as Germany – and they only read Christian books!

In the Amplified version of the Bible, Hebrews 12:214 directs Christians to be involved in "noble activities," said founder Minister Denise Stinson. "How noble are trashy movies? How noble is sexually explicit music? How noble is reading books that don’t glorify God?"

"I love to read good books and I had become frustrated that there was not a book club for those of us who wanted be involved with other Christians in fellowship around books that told good stories and lifted up the Name of Jesus. I began thinking about it in 19999 but it was not until 2000 I was given an assignment in bible school to create a church ministry that I really began to concentrate on how it would work."

In November 2001 Glory Girls: Reading Groups for African American Christian Women Who Love God and Like to Read made its debut with a simple purpose:

• To honor the Lord with what we read – and have a good time doing it!
• To provide and atmosphere where readers can seek fellowship with other book lovers while encouraging them in the choices they make in Godly reading materials.
• To offer readers fresh, contemporary, and entertaining yet scripturally sound fiction and nonfiction by talented Christian authors.
• To assist believers and nonbelievers in discovering the relevancy of the Bible in our contemporary, everyday lives.Every other month groups of three to 12 participants (persons of all races as well as men are welcome!), who along with a facilitator, have registered with Glory Girls™ online get together in homes, libraries, bookstores and homes to discuss a chosen book.

There are no membership dues and Glory Girls™ is careful to choose books that can be found in libraries so that anyone who wants to glorify God with what they read can participate.An important part of the Glory Girls ministry are the reading group questions found on the website, www.glorygirlsread.net.

Although each questions is relevant to the story there is also a biblical citation that leads the reader back to the Word of God. The questions, say Stinson, help readers stay focused no on the problem or situation the character is in but on the Word of God."This is ministry," says Stinson.

"We try to make it clear that although we may be considered a book club there is nothing exclusive or "clubbish" about us. We have gotten dozens of emails from women in these groups who joined not knowing anyone else and have been prayed for, spiritually supported and encouraged to find good church homes. Several have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior during a meeting. One group in Atlanta that meets at a restaurant even led their waitress to Christ!"