God Show Me A Sign: How to Stop, Look, and Listen

By

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Apr 9, 2019

God’s Signs Are All Around Us

The other day, I was on my way home and decided to stop at the TJ Maxx near my job (not that I needed to). As I left, I approached a four-way stop. After stopping, I began to roll through the intersection just as another car begin to speed through the stop sign to the right of me.

I stopped quickly and stared at the driver. He stopped fast and looked back at me with the “you’re definitely the wrong one” face; I mouthed to him, “you had a stop sign.” He looked pretty unbothered and even shrugged at me, until he looked back and realized that there was, indeed, a stop sign in the place that he’d just slid through. His eyes widened as he realized what almost happened due to his failure to check his surroundings. He didn’t pay attention to the sign that was there for his protection, and mine.

Obey the Signs

“God, show me a sign!”

How many times have you had, or almost had, a figurative “head-on collision” because you missed the signs telling you to stop? I know I’ve had a few. Ones that definitely could have been avoided had I not assumed that I was familiar with the space I was in.

The false familiarity caused me to ignore the “signs” around me. There have been plenty of times that I have rolled on through stop signs and missed the chance to look back and notice that I was wrong. The result of me moving too fast was detrimental and proved to be the cause of many of my problems.

I have had to learn numerous times to obey the signs. It’s like that Louie the Lightning Bug commercial that used to come on when I was little – “you gotta obey what the signs say” (anybody remember that?).

Typically, stop signs cause you to wait your turn. I believe that my problem with the stop sign has been the waiting part. But when I go out of turn, I miss what would come to me when I am actually supposed to move. Or, in some instances, when I fail to stop, I collide with someone else, causing unnecessary tension and issues. When driving, going too early can cause an accident, as I almost experienced when heading home that day.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Signs are used in traffic to prevent accidents and other travesties. Signs are used in our various seasons to keep us on track with God’s will. Each of our signs will be different as we move along the streets of life. Here are a few things to help you heed the signs that will come up as you travel:

You’ve got to wait on God. Sounds simple but often we prefer to “yield” instead of “stop” when God instructs us to wait. You know, because yielding is kinda like stopping without all the waiting. The problem with yielding is that you never really come to a complete stop and this can cause you not to fully assess your current situation. It’s better to stop as you are instructed to by the Lord. “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” Psalms 27:1
When driving, you cannot close your eyes; that would be foolish. You must keep your eyes on the road and pay attention to others around you. In life, you must keep your eyes on the Lord and pay attention to the things that He allows to cross your path. “So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6 (NLT)
Sometimes, we may overlook this necessity when driving. If you aren’t listening, you may miss the signals for emergency vehicles, other driver’s horns that would let you know that they’re behind or beside you, etc. In our daily lives, we must listen for instruction from the Lord. We must listen for His voice. “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!” Matthew 13:9 (NLT)

Don’t ignore the signs as your “drive” through life. Be sure that you are paying attention to the signals that may lead you to your next destination.

Pursuing Purpose: Dr. Kevin E. James, Interim President of Morris Brown College

By

Monique C. Baisden

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Apr 7, 2019

Pursuing Purpose Interview Series

Special Guest: Dr. Kevin E. James, Interim President of Morris Brown College

“Pursuing Purpose” is a new podcast interview series with people who are walking in purpose and destined for greatness. Our guests come from all backgrounds of life, many are well-known and well-respected professionals in their respective industries. Some are household names, and others are not. But, what they all have in common is their faith in God. They are all Team Jesus! As Christ Followers, they have endured and overcome challenges and have made the commitment to dedicate their lives to walking in and living out their God-given purpose, no matter what.

Meet Dr. Kevin E. James. A native of Columbia, South Carolina, Dr. James is the current Interim President of Morris Brown College and the former Interim CEO of the 100 Black Men of America.

Listen to Dr. James as he shares his journey to purpose and his calling for Higher Education, and how his relationship and faith in God influences and guides him on a day-to-day basis as a Higher Education Executive.

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to Pursuing Purpose: The Podcast

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My 40-Day Sugar Fast: One Dietitian’s Surprising Experiment

By

Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD

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Apr 5, 2019

Sugar is evil.

Or is it? So many people have walked into my office telling me they need to detox or fast sugar altogether… because it grabs us with its sticky sweet hands and doesn’t let us go until we are hooked – addicted.

Last December, I decided to join a 40-day Sugar Fast at the beginning of the year. While I didn’t feel addicted to sugar, I like most everyone else had enjoyed some extra treats during the holidays and I wondered what it would be like to totally eliminate added sugar and sweeteners from my eating plan. As a Registered Dietitian who shines a light on the diet deceptions and myths, this was a decision really born out of my own curiosity, not conviction. And, without wanting to over-spiritualize this, I prayed a simple prayer,

God, show me what you want me to see. Shed light in darkness. Teach me what I don’t know about stewarding my body.

I invited a friend to join me in this 40 Day Sugar Fast. We signed up for this free challenge with Wende Speake along with thousands of other women. January 8th was my first day without sugar.

So Long, Sugar!

The foundational message of the challenge was this: Fast from sugar, feast on the Word. We were invited to eliminate all processed added sugars, but the boundaries we set from there were entirely up to us. I decided to eliminate all added sugars (processed and unprocessed like maple syrup or honey) and all sweeteners like stevia.

What I allowed:

A little bit of honey/sweetener in homemade salad dressing or when cooking a recipe like this one.
Homemade muffins without added sugar (like these blueberry muffins sweetened with dates) and stewed fruit (like this blueberry ‘syrup’)

Modifying My Meals

As I assessed my diet for added sugars, here is what I found. I add about 1 teaspoon of sugar to my coffee each morning. I occasionally grab a handful or 2 of granola, often without even thinking this decision through. About 1 time per day, I have some tea with a packet of stevia. And chocolate – I like to have some chocolate chips or a square after lunch and then again as a bedtime snack in some plain yogurt with a few walnuts and raisins and bran flakes for crunch. These 40 days lasted through Valentine’s Day, so I also declined any sweet treats and desserts around that holiday too.

I did get clever and made a batch of this blueberry syrup on a morning when we were having whole grain pancakes for breakfast. A few times I declined muffins (my own recipes) because while they were low in sugar they still had added sweeteners.

The post-lunch chocolate treat was what I missed most, but I stuck to my guidelines and didn’t fudge. About 3 weeks in, I talked with my friend and shared that I didn’t really ‘feel it. I knew the purpose of this entire experiment was to fast on sugar and feast on God, but I didn’t feel that was happening. Was I doing something wrong? I wasn’t running to God, eager to talk to Him or needing Him more each day. And, while I did miss the sugar here and there, I didn’t feel the loss like I expected. Most days I read the sugar fast devotional article that showed up in my inbox looking for some revelation or insight. It just felt like I was trying to be ‘good’ and follow my own rules – rules I’d set for myself.

The 2 Tweaks That Changed Everything

Deeper – that conversation with my friend helped me process what I was feeling along with my unmet expectations. God was waiting to refresh me with grace and insight, but I didn’t know it. My idea didn’t sound like rich revelation. It was really just an idea that popped into my head one of those moments when I was wondering why this sugar fast didn’t seem to be working, why I didn’t feel any closer to God than when I began.

Two thoughts came to my mind and lingered…

Eliminate my bedtime snack.
Eliminate listening to podcasts.

The idea of getting rid of these 2 behaviors felt like torture to me. And then I knew – it was never the sugar for me.

Harmless Habits?

Sugar may not be my Achilles heel, but I have coping mechanisms, too. These behaviors actually appear harmless, but not really. Surrendering them felt like a big ask. Didn’t God know that listening to podcasts helps me to like my life a little bit more since I am obediently staying home with my little girls?! Didn’t God know that my snack at night is the ONLY time I actually get to eat something I enjoy in peace and quiet – without having to teach table manners, clean up a mess, or reminding my 3-year-old for the 7th time to get back in her seat?!

Didn’t God know that these 2 things were helping me cope with parts of my life that I don’t really like right now?!

Didn’t he know?!

All too well.

These innocent sounding rhythms had become so much a part of my life that I was white knuckling them – coping strategies I clung to. I had pushed down some negative feelings into dark places of my soul. Maybe because I didn’t want to feel them. Maybe because I didn’t’ think I should feel them.

Podcasts had become my escape. I could drown out the noise in my head and my home by putting on a podcast – always an uplifting one that would challenge and equip me, but noise nonetheless. My bedtime snacks weren’t unhealthy. It wasn’t the food or the sugar. It was the fact that it was a necessity – whether I was hungry or not, I had to have my time and my special snack. It was one thing I could control. And it was one moment in my day when I could breathe easy and enjoy the simple pleasure of eating good food.

My posture had moved to survival and these were my tools, the joys I looked forward to each day.

This 40-day sugar fast was a catalyst for change in my heart. It didn’t end on day 40. God uncovered some unhealthy habits and idols I have created and day by day He is drawing me closer so that I want Him a tiny bit more than my faux comforts I have used to cover up the feelings I don’t want to feel. He reminds me daily that I can trust Him with all of my feelings, not just the pretty ones.

There are still many days I want to run from my feelings of discontent. There are moments when I want to escape motherhood and all the responsibilities and messes and patience. And those moments when I am wiping up spills in the middle of my meal – those aren’t fun.

So is sugar bad? Good? Indifferent? What will a sugar fast do for you? Maybe the better question is, “What will God do in you during a sugar fast?”

It probably has nothing to do with sugar or snacking or podcasts. It has everything to do with your heart because a heart fully surrendered may feel vulnerable, but it is in the perfect place to get filled with the only One who satisfies.

So, what is the play call?

Maybe sugar has captured your heart, your mind, and your taste buds. Or maybe it is something entirely different. We can continue to demonize sugar and processed foods or we can remember that the enemy is crafty and uses whatever tools necessary to capture our heart and attention. He doesn’t want you to have freedom. But God does.

Here is where you can start:

Begin with this simple prayer: God, show me what you want me to see. Shed light in darkness. Teach me what I don’t know about stewarding my body.
Expect that God will speak. He won’t withhold from you. Then, write it down.

Whether God takes you on a journey to a 40-day sugar fast or has you make a 2-degree course correction, He will show up and can’t wait to partner with you.

God met me more than halfway, he freed me from my anxious fears. Look at him; give him your warmest smile. Never hide your feelings from him. Psalm 34:4-5 (MSG)

“The Best of Enemies” Bill Riddick and the Role of the Church in Racial Reconciliation

By

Kim Brightness

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Apr 4, 2019

Conversations That Lead to Change

Some of the hardest conversations are the ones that really need to be had. And, when it comes to race relations or racial reconciliation, just getting both sides to the table is close to impossible.

In “The Best of Enemies“, we witness a miracle of the impossible. Based on the true story of the unexpected relationship between Ann Atwater, an African-American civil rights activist, and a Ku Klux Klan leader, C. P. Ellis, the movie tells the story of the 1971 racially charged era in Durham, NC during school desegregation.

Atwater and Ellis both reluctantly agree to co-chair a 10-day community summit, or charrette, to come to an agreement on school desegregation. The evolution of their relationship is nothing short of amazing, as is the outcome of the charrette, led by today’s guest, Mr. Bill Riddick.

The Best of Enemies is a remarkable piece of less-known history needed in today’s reality of continued racial disharmony, hopelessness, and justice fatigue. While this country’s racially charged past is unpleasant to revisit for many, we hope viewers will regain hope and strength to fight for needed change in our communities.

Matthew 5:44 on the Silver Screen

“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

Are we living Jesus’ call to love our enemies? When is last time we “did good” to those who hate, use, or persecute us?

What is the role of the Church when it comes to racial reconciliation?

The Best of Enemies gives Team Jesus a much needed visual – this is what it looks like to lay down our pride and biases for the greater good of loving like Jesus expects us to love. Our Father is a God of reconciliation. As such, this film will remind the body of Christ of the importance of “reasoning together”, coming to the table to have respectful conversations with people who don’t believe the way we do.

For more insight, take a listen above to our interview with the actual leader of that historic charrette between the Ann Atwater and the African-American community and C. P. Ellis and the Klan. Riddick’s words of wisdom will make us all think about our personal and collective role in racial reconciliation and justice.

Doing Parenthood God’s Way

By

Sonya McKinzie

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Apr 3, 2019

The Joy, Embarrassment, and Humor of Parenthood

While grocery shopping, have you ever noticed a mother trying to manage her mildly out-of-control child? While the mother attempts to calm the child, it seems her comfort is only making the child grow more and more rebellious and somehow in the midst of that, you find yourself feeling sorry for her. Perhaps you find yourself wondering why the child feels it is acceptable to behave in such a way, one that brings sadness and embarrassment to their parent. How does one respond to such an event?

I am the parent.

A few years ago when my daughter was about four-years-old, we were standing in line waiting for our turn to check out. It was one of those days that had been saturated with gray clouds with a major chance of rain, and my daughter had been working on my last nerve with her questions, bickering, whining, and sticky fingers.

It seemed like she had grabbed everything within her reach and either knocked it off the shelf or into the shopping cart. Then, to put the cherry on top, while sitting in the back of the shopping cart in the check out line, she looked at the customer in front of us and said: “Mommy, what happened to his hair?”

The customer, an older man, stood in front of us and didn’t have much hair and that which remained was white as snow. Embarrassed by my daughter’s question, I apologized profusely to the man for her question and awkwardly smiled at him.

Light-heartedly, the man glanced at me and then looked at my daughter and let out a huge chuckle. He laughingly said, “I can understand your question chickadee, this is what happens to you when children ‘worry’ you. Thank goodness your mommy doesn’t have to worry about you making her lose her hair.”

Amusingly enough, I remembered thinking, “Sir, this is a wig and she does make me want to pull off my wig, and I often do”.

Our children often make mistakes, many are humorous and others – not so funny. So, where do we draw the line?

Lil’ Imitators

It doesn’t take me to tell you that parenting is hard work and as the old saying goes
“children do not come with instructions”. I assure you had my daughter entered this world with instructions, I would have saved time on trials and errors.

The same applies to our Father God. We are His children and encouraged to follow His plans for our lives. Think about the scripture. Our Bible tells us that children are our heritage and a gift from God; they are the fruit of our womb and a reward (Psalm 127:3). Our children are imitators of us as we are emulators of God (Ephesians 5:1). God has a goal in mind for His children – to guide us towards conforming to the image of Jesus (Romans 8:28-29). Even as parents, we are also children to God and must apply what God has taught us in the way we raise and teach our children.

4 Key Objectives to God’s Parenting Plan

Parents, we must keep our objective in front of us – to teach our children to love God with all their hearts, and to love others. In order for us to achieve these objectives, we must:

1. Teach our children how to pray.

First, we must be sure that our children understand what prayer is and why it is important. In the simplest terms, prayers are conversations with God. Prayer allows us to show our love and respect for God in our own personal way.

Matthew 6:7 NLT tells us, “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again.” This means it is not necessary to pray a certain way in order for God to understand your heart.

We should guide our children to speak to God in their own words. We often teach them the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), which was given to us by Jesus. However, God welcomes our own personal prayers, too, ones that are directly connected to our hearts and to His.

2. Nurture our children to build Godly relationships with others.

We should encourage them to practice the second commandment – it is essential to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. This starts in our home. Our children must learn what biblical love (as opposed to worldly love) means (1 John 3:16). They must learn how to resolve problems the way that God intends versus the way the world teaches us (1 Peter 3:8-12).

Children should learn how to speak in a manner that builds up others instead of tearing them down (Ephesians 4:29). As parents, we have all had to learn how to discern who our friends were and how to choose them wisely ( 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1). Guiding our children towards building God-fearing friendships with others is all a part of being a parent following God’s blueprint for His children.

3. Educate and teach our children how to be responsible.

As our children grow, we must teach them life skills in order to make informed decisions as they grow towards adulthood. We are responsible for teaching our children how to clean, cook, do laundry, shopping, understand the management and use of money, etc. Further, we must also teach them the process of having and maintaining proper hygiene and how to keep their bodies healthy.

Also, our children should be taught how to respect and take care of their possessions and the things of others.

4. Teach our children love and to do so graciously.

God’s loves us tenderly and with unconditional, abundant love. “Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.” (Psalm 103:13)

We must teach our children humility, love, and grace. Teach them to be kind, speak with love, listen, and most importantly treat others the way they would like to be treated. Our children must understand that as they grow older, certain behaviors are no longer tolerated.

Just as we are imperfect humans, this same sentiment applies to parents. Thank God for His abundant love and mercy that covers all of our sins. It is our responsibility to raise our children as God directs us. Teaching our children with a foundation that is built around the relationship between God and Jesus is where it all begins and ends.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

As parents, we learn and grow through our mistakes, keeping God’s will for our lives as we guide our children towards our Father.

Remember the objectives above for parenting as God has called us, and in all that we do, we must keep God first and pray often (Luke 10:27, 1 Thessalonians 5:17).

As parents, we have huge responsibilities, ones that are achievable by following our heavenly Father.

You’re Being Watched: Watch Your Words and Actions

By

Chet Bergeron

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Apr 2, 2019

Go Viral for Good

Have you ever said something you wish you hadn’t? Have you ever did something you wish you didn’t do?

Join the club, me too!

Our actions and words are watched by those around us. We now have social media, so our area of influence triples. Our spouses, friends, our children are all watching our every move.

It is possible to either encourage someone or hinder them by what we say. The same is true about our actions.

There is a saying:

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”

This statement is, well, false.

Our words to live by are found in Romans 14:13:

“Therefore, let us no longer criticize one another. Instead, decide never to put a stumbling block or pitfall in your brother’s way.”

I believe Scripture is clear that we are to do all things so that our fellow brothers and sisters will not stumble.

Am I a Help or Hinderance?

If we doubt whether or not a certain word or deed is sin in our mind, it is sin. When we do things or say things that tear down others or pull them further from Jesus, we are sinning against God.

Our Playbook tells us in Ephesians 4:29, “No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.”

What we say and do either builds up others or tears them down. It also acts as a witness to a world that needs Jesus.

Respond Without Regrets

I have been practicing something lately and it seems to be working fairly well. If someone tells me or texts me something that makes me angry, I wait two days before responding.

It is amazing what happens. What was important that first day ends up not being that big of a deal two days later.

For help with how to hear God’s winning strategies for your life, read how to hear God’s voice in the midst of trials here.

Remember, God designed us men to be leaders. When we are leading well, we encourage others to be closer to Jesus and to be better for their families.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

Realize that people are watching you every day.
If someone frustrates you or makes you angry, wait two days before responding. (Unless it is your wife – then prompt reconciliation is needed.)
Speak to encourage others, not tear them down. You will be amazed at the impact you can have on lives.

I pray you will experience God’s grace in your life today. Thank you for reading, teammate!

If you are looking for a relatable podcast click here.

Doulos,
Chet

Top Stellar Award Winner, Jonathan McReynolds, Takes Home Eight Stellar Awards

By

Editorial Staff

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Apr 1, 2019

The Biggest Night of Gospel Music

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 29: Yolanda Adams attends the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images )

Central City Productions wrapped up the taping of the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards on Friday, March 29 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV. The biggest night in gospel music, hosted by Kirk Franklin, will premiere on BET Network on Easter Sunday, April 21 at 7:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. CT.

The stand-out highlight of the evening was an emotional tribute performance by Kelly Price, Erica Campbell and Regina Belle honoring the undisputed Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Family members of the late-legend Brenda Corbett, Jordan Franklin and Kecalf Franklin were presented with the inaugural Aretha Franklin ICON Award to give posthumous recognition of her profound impact on the Gospel music genre and unforgettable contributions.

The undeniable breakout winner of the annual show was performer Jonathan McReynolds , who swept the awards taking home eight Stellar Awards including AT&T Artist of the Year , State Farm Song of the Year ,Male Vocalist of the Year, CD of the Year , Producer of the Year , Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year ,Contemporary CD of the Year and Urban/Inspirational Performance of the Year. Jekalyn Carr received three awards for Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year and Traditional CD of the Year. The Walls Group were awarded twice as Duo/Chorus Group of the Year and Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year.

A special award presentation was also given to honor gospel legend Delores Washington Green of The Caravans with the Dr. Bobby Jones Legend Award. Gospel star Yolanda Adams and Stellar Awards Founder, Chairman & CEO Don Jackson inducted James Robinson Jr. (Malaco Gospel), Jackie Patillo (GMA) and Phil Thornton (RCA Inspiration) into the Stellar Honors Hall of Fame.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 29: Goo Goo Atkins attends the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images )

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 29: Hezekiah Walker performs during the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images )

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 29: Jekalyn Carr performs during the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images )

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 29: Trina Hairston (L) and JJ Hairston attend the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images )

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 29: Kirk Franklin (L) and Tammy Collins attend the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images )

This year’s sensational line-up of performances included an energetic opening number by Hezekiah Walker, Kirk Franklin stirring the audience to their feet performing new music and a rousing medley by Phil Thompson, Kelontae Gavin and Maranda Curtis. Other performers included Brian Courtney Wilson, Koryn Hawthorne, Todd Dulaney, Charles Jenkins, and Jekalyn Carr.

The show will continue to air around the country in broadcast syndication from April 27 through May 26 (check local listings). For more information visit us at www.thestellarawards.com.

And the 2019 Stellar Award Winners Are…

Category #1 ARTIST OF THE YEAR

– Jonathan McReynolds, Make Room, Entertainment One

Category #2 SONG OF THE YEAR

– Not Lucky, I’m Loved, Jonathan McReynolds, Terrell Demetrius Wilson & Anna B. Warner, Entertainment One

Category #3 MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

– Jonathan McReynolds, Make Room, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #4 ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR
– Jekalyn Carr, One Nation Under God, Lunjeal Music Group

CATEGORY #5 DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR

– The Walls Group, The Other Side, RCA Inspiration/Fo Yo Soul Recordings

CATEGORY #6 NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR

– Jabari Johnson, Day of Redemption, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #7 CD OF THE YEAR

– Make Room, Jonathan McReynolds, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #8 CHOIR OF THE YEAR

– Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir, Run to the Altar, JH/Tyscot

CATEGORY #9 PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

– Jonathan McReynolds & Darryl “Lil Man” Howell, Make Room, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #10 CONTEMPORARY DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR

– The Walls Group, The Other Side, RCA Inspiration/Fo Yo Soul Recordings

CATEGORY #11 TRADITIONAL DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR

– Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson, Keep Pushin, Wonder Spirit/SRT/Shanachie

CATEGORY #12 CONTEMPORARY MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

– Jonathan McReynolds, Make Room, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #13 TRADITIONAL MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

– VaShawn Mitchell, Cross Music, Tyscot

CATEGORY #14 CONTEMPORARY FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

– Tasha Page-Lockhart, The Beautiful Project, RCA Inspiration/Fo Yo Soul Recordings

CATEGORY #15 TRADITIONAL FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

– Jekalyn Carr, One Nation Under God, Lunjeal Music Group

CATEGORY #16 CONTEMPORARY CD OF THE YEAR

– Make Room, Jonathan McReynolds, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #17 TRADITIONAL CD OF THE YEAR

– One Nation Under God, Jekalyn Carr, Lunjeal Music Group

CATEGORY #18 URBAN/INSPIRATIONAL SINGLE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

– Not Lucky, I’m Loved, Jonathan McReynolds, Entertainment One

CATEGORY #19 MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR

– Won’t He Do It, Casey Cross, RCA Inspiration

CATEGORY #20 TRADITIONAL CHOIR OF THE YEAR

– Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir, Run to the Altar, JH/Tyscot

CATEGORY #21 CONTEMPORARY CHOIR OF THE YEAR

– New Direction, When All God’s Children Get Together, New Haven Records

CATEGORY #23 SPECIAL EVENT CD OF THE YEAR

– The Best of Fred Hammond, Fred Hammond, Verity/Sony Music

CATEGORY #24 RAP HIP HOP GOSPEL CD OF THE YEAR

– God Knows, Flame, Clear Sight Music

CATEGORY #25 YOUTH PROJECT OF THE YEAR

– Pure N Heart, “Be You” 15 Years Unplugged, Music2ChangeU

CATEGORY #26 QUARTET OF THE YEAR

– Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson, Keep Pushin, Wonder Spirit / SRT/Shanachie

CATEGORY #27 RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING OF THE YEAR

– Israel Houghton, Road to DeMaskUs, RCA Inspiration

CATEGORY #28 PRAISE AND WORSHIP CD OF THE YEAR

– Your Great Name, Todd Dulaney, Entertainment One

THOMAS A. DORSEY MOST NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

– The Sensational Nightingales

BOBBY JONES LEGENDS AWARD

– Dolores Washington Green

ARETHA FRANKLIN ICON AWARD

– Aretha Franklin (posthumously)

STELLAR HONORS HALL OF FAME

– Jackie Patillo – Phil Thornton – James D. Robinson, Jr.

GOSPEL RADIO OF THE YEAR WINNERS

MAJOR MARKET OF THE YEAR

– WPZE Praise 102.5, Atlanta

LARGE MARKET OF THE YEAR

– WFMI-FM 100.9 FM, Virginia Beach

MEDIUM MARKET OF THE YEAR

– WCGL AM 1360/FM 94.7, Jacksonville

SMALL MARKET OF THE YEAR

– WIMG 1300AM, Ewing

INTERNET STATION OF THE YEAR

– uGospel Radio, http://uGospel.com

GOSPEL ANNOUNCER OF THE YEAR

– Dwight Stone, WPZE Praise 102.5, Atlanta, GA

Top 10 Reasons Why Your Christian Event Sucks!

By

Kim Brightness

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Mar 29, 2019

Welcome, welcome?

No one attends an event, Christian or otherwise, without anticipation and expectations. The spectrum is as broad as attendees who anticipate all the great, memorable moments of the event, to some who are hoping for a short-and-sweet occasion that provides a quick exit.

Now, if you’re the organizer or producer of a Christian event, the last thing you want is a disgruntled attendee, thinking, “I wonder how long this ____ will be.”

Or is it?

See, the awesome thing about Christian events is – even when skeptics, naysayers, and those too polite to decline attend your event, that’s your golden opportunity to transform their resistance into acceptance and offer enlightenment or encouragement where perhaps their spirit was dark. That’s the beauty of God’s love which has the power to soften even the hardest of hearts.

But, unfortunately, our Christian events don’t always go down like that. It’s embarrassing to admit, but there are some Christian events that leave a bad taste in visitors’ mouths, and people leave with a worse impression of the body of Christ than before they came. Sad.

Let’s get it together, Team! God wants us to produce events that shine – not suck! Take a long, honest look at the misses below so that your Christian event is a winner.

How do YOUR Christian events stack up?

#10. Late, late, and more late.

Does your event respect the time of your attendees? Have you mastered the “bear with us” speech? Have your attendees grown so accustomed to your lateness, that they typically arrive late? This sucks, Team.

Try having protocols in place to keep the event moving along in case of a missed step. Not sure how? Enlist an experienced event planner to be your “General” to keep the event team instep. Honor the time of your attendees, and make it your business to start the event at its purposed time (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

#9. Money manipulating maneuvers.

Love offerings and donations are key to the support and longevity of many events. Does the Word of God instruct us to “manipulate and you shall receive”? Not at all. We are simply instructed to ask (Matthew 7:7), and give attendees the freedom to give as they have decided in their heart (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Guilt-trips, excessive asking (begging), and pressure tactics will sour a Christian event every time. Follow the Bible’s prescription for asking, keep it moving, and watch attendees respond positively in-kind.

#8. Event staffers don’t smile, unfriendly.

If mean ushers were simply fictional characters, we may be able to ignore this point. Unfortunately, if ushers, event staffers, greeters – people on the front lines of your event can’t buy a smile, and they wear their feelings and attitudes on their sleeves – that’s not a good look.

Those with the honor of welcoming attendees to your events MUST be skilled at leaving their worries, their troubles outside the venue (hold this, God), and show up ready to serve and support the event with gladness (Psalms 100:2). If they’re not glad to be here, why should your attendees? Be mindful of the countenance and personality of your people at the door – they set the tone for the event off the rip.

#7. Too many events mashed into one (too) long event.

How many selections, sermons, dance routines, reprises can your event realistically handle before it becomes ridiculously overkill? Know your event type and your target attendees, and how to best manage the event’s allotted time.

There comes a point when you may need to host an event over days vs. hours in order to accomplish a goal or give space to all agenda items and guests. Don’t torture your attendees trying to make it all fit.

#6. Sloppy venue preparation.

Was more attention given to your flyers, uniforms and outfits, the main event area than the total venue experience? Would anyone believe that cleanliness is next to godliness by the look of the venue bathrooms, floors, or ceilings?

It’s easy to become complacent and comfortable with the dirt and disarray we accept on the regular (Proverbs 30:12). Not so much for newcomers, first-timers. It’s human nature – you AND your event will be judged by the cleanliness, or lack thereof, of your venue.

#5. Haphazard marketing collateral.

Is your flyer laced with typos and grammatical errors? Is there pertinent information missing from your invitations and ads? Do your graphics use outdated clipart and fonts? The bar has been raised, Team. There are too many online tools and free stock photo sites (check copyright and attribution requirements) available – e.g. Canva, PicMonkey, Snapwire Snaps, Fancy Crave – to represent your Christian event with mediocre collateral. You’re not just representing your event, you’re representing Christ’s character and glory through the event (1 Corinthians 10:31). Need help? Drop us a line for a free consultation.

#4. The regulars are too cliquey.

Sure, you have your die-hard ‘squad’ who never misses your events. Cool. But how do your ambassadors treat others? Do they welcome newcomers to experience your event, or do they carry an air of “we’ve been here, we belong here, and we’ll think about letting you in”? Encourage your go-to-regulars to have welcoming hearts, not stinky attitudes which breed disorder – not harmony (James 3:16).

#3. Too much churchy-speak.

“And now here cometh…the propitiation whereunto the immutable…” C’mon, Team! If the average visitor needs Webster and a concordance to understand what you’re saying, “look at your neighbor and say” that’s a problem! Don’t miss the opportunity to reach someone who’s not “churched” or Christian because you’re too busy exercising (flaunting) your Biblical vocabulary (Matthew 6:5). Keep the simplicity of the gospel simple and relatable to ALL. It’s not about you.

#2. Self-focused vs. Son-focused headliners.

Does your event promote the leader or headliner higher than Jesus? Many Christian events have become the So-and-So-Look-at-Me show, with very little room for Jesus, or serving others to shine – this is a turn-off to many. When our events return to making Jesus famous vs. ourselves, we’ll draw more hearts to the One who deserves all the glory and shine (John 12:32).

#1. There’s no love in the room.

Point blank and period. Where’s the love, Team? Visitors can often feel or hear the judgment loud and clear, but the love of Jesus Christ is a faint whisper at best. We are known by the love we have for one another (John 13:35). If we don’t show love and do ALL THINGS in love (1 Corinthians 16:14), how can we be “known” as children of God? Love like our Father loves, Team – it is both our duty and our privilege.

– – –

So how’d you do, Team? See any areas where you can improve or implement some changes to your Christian event? We hope so. It’s all about making the name of Jesus GREAT – we are the ambassadors of that great name.

What are some other ways we can improve our Christian events?

Jesus Hoarders: Is Your Heart Full, But the Church is Empty?

By

Lamica A. Burnett

-

Mar 28, 2019

What’s an Empty Pew Got to do with You?

As the praise and worship songs began, I took a look around my church last Sunday morning. I was intentionally looking for new faces in the crowd that I had not seen before.

Since I know firsthand the anxiety that being new to a church brings, I make it a point to connect with visitors. Because I am a ‘hugger’ by nature, I tend to bypass the formal introductory handshake for an embrace in hopes that my friendliness is received and reciprocated.

As I considered my attempt to make others feel welcomed, it occurred to me that I wasn’t welcoming those that I, myself, had personally invited. I also noted that I hadn’t invited anyone in a very long time.

The second time I glanced around the sanctuary, the hollow, unoccupied seats glared at me. The newly upholstered chair backs looked sad and disappointed. The vacant seats in the sanctuary blatantly exposed me. They loudly proclaimed my lack of evangelism the previous week. They showed that I was silent in my faith.

Ouch.

Are there any empty seats in your church or fellowship, Team?

You’re Invited

Even if your church is packed to capacity, ask yourself: How many people have I personally impacted this week?

If you’re like me, maybe you’ve told yourself that you’re not prepared. You feel like you don’t know enough scriptures. Could it be that you’re afraid that you won’t be able to answer a difficult question?

Maybe you don’t want to look bad. Or, could it be that you simply don’t know the right words to say?

The responsibility of sharing Christ has requirements and risks. In order to fulfill Jesus’ play call in Mark 16:15 – go into all the world – we must commit to the demands and sufficiently prepare ourselves for opportunities to share Christ.

The Requirements

Submission

Submission is living your life under the will of God. It involves forcefully putting your will under something outside of yourself. It requires that you deliberately do the opposite of what you would naturally do.

Our boldness and courage to witness is diminished by our lack of submission to God. Because we’ve submitted to our own will and complacency for so long, we find it difficult to act outside of ourselves. As we submit ourselves to God (James 4:7), He gives us the ability and power to obey His commands.

Self-sacrifice

This requirement involves giving up your convenience for the sake of someone else. Come on, Teammates, Jesus did it for us!

While I am not suggesting that you literally give your life for others, I am saying that it requires that you be willing to give of yourself, especially in instances when you don’t feel like it.

In order to share Christ, you may have to take some time out of your day. You may experience a minor inconvenience. On occasion, the person may need a bit more support than you originally expected. Be willing to go the distance for the cause of Christ.

Seeking people out

This duty obligates us to step beyond our comfort zones and places of isolation. In times when we’d like to sit back and let somebody else take the lead, God is expecting us to be the ones to reach out.

This is not accomplished through our own strength, but with His lovingkindness. It is the love of Christ, in action and on display in a tangible, practical way that will draw people. Look for opportunities to reach out to people where they are and share the lovingkindness of God (Jeremiah 31:3).

The Risks

Stepping up to share your faith has risks, but that should not deter us from doing what God has called us to do.

Uncomfortable risks are definite possibilities, but the blessings of honoring God are a sure thing.

Rejection, Ridicule, and Refusal to Hear

There is the reality that the message of Christ may be tossed aside. No one likes to be discarded, however, this rejection should not be taken personally.

As representatives of Christ, we are simply the messengers. We are the vessels used to deliver His word. The rejection that we may experience should be the fuel to continue on.

Jesus says in Matthew 10:14 that we should shake the dust from our feet and move on if people don’t welcome or receive our words.

Just as some rejected Jesus and His message, they will also reject us. Accept it and move on!

Matthew 5:11-12 says that we are blessed when we are insulted because of the name of Christ. It encourages us to rejoice because a great reward is ahead of us.

Until each of us take the words of Jesus in Mark 16:15 both personally and literally, there will always be empty seats in our assemblies across this country and around the world.

So, what’s the play call?

If you don’t know what you’re called to do as a believer and are wondering about your purpose, look at what Jesus says.

Jesus gives directives for action. He spells out for us where to go and exactly what to do. He even tells us who our audience should be:

GO

The word go is an action to move or proceed. It means to leave from a place or to depart. This means we will have to move beyond the comfort of the walls of our local assemblies.

INTO ALL THE WORLD

This means literally everywhere!

PREACH

To proclaim or to make known.

THE GOSPEL

The good news of Jesus Christ.

TO EVERY CREATURE

That pretty much sums up the entire human race!

An empty seat in your church is a sign of us being partial in our Christianity. We are reaping all the benefits of a relationship with God, but not carrying out the duty of sharing Him with the world.

Can I be bold in declaring that we are not full-bodied followers of Christ until God’s house is full.

Let’s face it, Team, it’s not enough that only you and I have salvation.

It’s insufficient that only a select few people are delivered and healed when Jesus’ blood paid the price for all sin. The invitation is part of the anointing. Jesus made the supreme invitation to us, but the gospel is not for us to keep to ourselves. Stop being a Jesus hoarder!

The responsibility of sharing Christ also has its rewards! Stay tuned for the next article where we will reveal the hidden rewards of sharing your faith and the mighty reinforcement that you may not even know that you have!

What will you do about the empty seats in your church this week?

Christian Marriage and How to Win Through Submission

By

Kim Brightness

-

Mar 27, 2019

Sweet Submission

There’s an “s” word that’s often preached with much fervor and frequency in the realm of Christian marriage and the wife’s duty: Submit.

How does that word make you feel? I haven’t always been fond or welcoming of the notion of “submission”. As a young wife, I was too busy trying not to lose arguments, making sure hubby knew he was not the boss of me. As a learning, growing woman of God, I still have to die daily in many areas of my life. Part of my everyday ‘sacrifice’ includes learning how to submit to my husband.

Oh! You’ve got that submission part down pat? Good for you, sis!

For me? God constantly creates opportunities for me to see myself, and how I can honor my husband – even when I don’t initially get the memo or recognize the opportunity to win through submission. Here’s how one such opportunity went down…

I Thirst, and Starbucks is Not Cheap.

It was a lovely Saturday morning. Hubby and I were out and about as new empty-nesters, had picked up our favorite Starbucks drinks, and decided to stop at a neighborhood café for breakfast. Getting out of the car…

Me: You’re leaving your drink, bae.
Hubby: No, I’m not taking my drink.
Me: Umm, why not? (taking sips from my cup)
Hubby: That’s tacky to take Starbucks in there. I’ll just drink it later.
Me: But we just got them. It’ll be all watered down later.
Hubby: Look, you can take yours inside, but I’m leaving mine in the car.

{Bet! With one foot out the car, Starbucks in hand, enter the Holy Spirit}

Spirit: “Follow your husband’s lead.”

{Sigh, rolls eyes. I put the cup back in the cup holder; we go in to eat.}

{Fast forward 10 minutes, waiting for our food.}

Hubby: I’ll be right back.
Me: What’s up?
Hubby: Nothing. I’ll be right back.

I could only smile, staring out of the café window as hubby went back to the car and got both drinks!

Me: Why’d you do that? {grinning}
Hubby: Because I knew it would make you happy.

Now. You may be thinking, “Was that it? What’s the big deal?”

Allow me to explain.

The Holy Spirit Inspires Husbands and Wives to Submit to Each Other

Did you see what happened?

Look closer with the heart of God.

The Spirit was at work in both of us to submit to each other’s will. Each had something to sacrifice and lay down for the other. Contrary to popular belief, there’s enough submission and compromise to go around in a marriage – and every ball doesn’t land solely in the wife’s court.

Because my heart was pricked to stop bucking and follow my husband’s lead, I eventually got exactly what I wanted.

Since hubby’s desire was to please me versus make me do what he wanted, he effectually blew my mind and won my heart with the kind gesture of going back to the car to get my drink.

What’s the lesson, Cleavers?

There’s no need to always fight to win your position, because when you’re ONE, you’ve already WON!

If we sacrificially seek the good, the respect, the honor of the other spouse, it builds up a reserve of favor by God and appreciation in our spouse. Nothing makes a husband feel more valued than respect; nothing makes a wife feel more special than loving action.

Wives, think about how our husbands feel when we gripe and refuse to follow their lead – over the simplest things. Ask yourself, “Is this battle really worth fighting?” And, let’s say you win and “beat” your husband – what exactly have you truly won? Or better yet, “who” has truly won – you, the enemy, or God?

Husbands, imagine how your wife would feel (and return the favor *wink) if rather than sparring with her, you served her? Is your wife dying to experience some sign that you feel her, and that you’d put her feelings above your own logic or wants?

So, what’s the play call?

Husbands and wives, perfect your cleave through acts of submission! Sacrificially serve one another.

Let’s face it, you will never cleave to each other as opponents. So, let’s run from the “opposite side” and get on the same side with our spouses. May both of you side (agree) with God, and submit to Him.

Now, Go!

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Welcome, welcome?

How do YOUR Christian events stack up?

#10. Late, late, and more late.

#9. Money manipulating maneuvers.

#8. Event staffers don’t smile, unfriendly.

#7. Too many events mashed into one (too) long event.

#6. Sloppy venue preparation.

#5. Haphazard marketing collateral.

#4. The regulars are too cliquey.

#3. Too much churchy-speak.

#2. Self-focused vs. Son-focused headliners.

#1. There’s no love in the room.

What are some other ways we can improve our Christian events?

What’s an Empty Pew Got to do with You?

You’re Invited

The Requirements

Submission

Self-sacrifice

Seeking people out

The Risks

Rejection, Ridicule, and Refusal to Hear

GO

INTO ALL THE WORLD

PREACH

THE GOSPEL

TO EVERY CREATURE

What will you do about the empty seats in your church this week?

Sweet Submission

I Thirst, and Starbucks is Not Cheap.

The Holy Spirit Inspires Husbands and Wives to Submit to Each Other

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