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Finding Freedom Through a Disciplined Life

By
Brandi Hawthorne
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freedom

Do you live an “If only, then…” life?

If only I had a career I loved, then I would give 1000% at work.
If only I wasn’t so stressed, then I would be more kind.
If only I had more money, then I could afford to tithe.

I’ve been there, so no condemnation, girlfriend. But, I think I’ve stumbled upon a better way. Check out what happened to me this past week.

Every year around this time, a video surfaces where this mom is celebrating the end of summer break. She runs around the house like a maniac trying to get the kids out the door. She even does the running man as she puts them on the school bus. It’s hilarious!

What makes it even funnier is that I can relate! I always hear my alarm on the first day of school – Bye, kids!

But this year, I could’ve extended summer by a week or two.

What?!

I know!

And, get this…it’s not because we had an epic summer filled with thrills. We didn’t even take a vacation this year. And, it’s not because my kids were such angels, either. They try my patience on a daily basis.

I attribute my take it or leave it attitude to the fact that I am no longer a distracted scatterbrain (James 1:25 MSG).

I’ve realized that I’ve read and listened to enough hacks and motivational speeches to last two lifetimes. And, though they were great catalysts 5 years ago, today they do very little because what got me here can’t take me any further.

Come to Your Senses

I caught a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God and realized that most of my shackles were self-imposed.

Life is simple. We make it complicated by overflowing it with activities, refusing to obey the commands of God, and preferring whatever’s easiest now, even if that means we suffer later.

How many times have you skipped packing your lunch and ironing your clothes the night before only to wake up with regret?  

I was constantly trading the pain of get it done now with the pain of being a hot mess later.

This summer, I began creating systems in my home, family and business. So, now when I spend time with my daughter, I don’t do it with a computer in my lap. I actually cuddle with her on the couch, without the frustration of what I could or should be doing.

On Sundays, we eat soul-food, nap, and hang out with family, guilt-free.

And, when I need to work on my business, I can freely walk away knowing everything and everyone has been (or will be) taken care of at the designated time.

Some apps that help me juggle it all include Wunderlist, Trello, Google calendars and thinking about every aspect of my day the night before.

God’s Vision Speaks

But mostly, God’s vision for my life asked, “Do you want me or not?”

So, now I’m asking you:

 “Do you want the life God
has planned for you or not?”

If your answer is yes, you must resign from CEO of Distracted Scatterbrain, Inc. Have you realized that doing what you want, when you want doesn’t always resemble freedom at all? It may feel good at the moment, but it paves the way for failure when not properly managed and executed.

When we do the work on the front-end, it yields freedom on the back-end. Think of it as a sowing and reaping.

So, what’s the play call?  

Resign to the way things used to be. I enjoyed three consecutive days with my 7-year-old because I simplified and organized my life. I put what I knew into action.

If you intend to live out the life God created for you, put yourself on the Potter’s wheel and allow Him to shape you. Don’t run from something new that catapults you forward to something familiar that holds you back. It’s better to be pruned now rather than burned later.

 

Yes! I would like prayer. Please pray for me.

Back to School Prayer for Students w/ Team Jesus Mag and OurPrayer

By
Editorial Staff
-

Team Jesus Magazine and Guideposts OurPrayer have teamed up to encourage prayer for all students returning to school with a back-to-school video.

A special prayer goes out to students who are displaced in Houston, TX due to Hurricane Harvey.

Join us by commenting below or submitting your (anonymous) prayer request for children, youth, and college students for a successful, productive school year.

When Justice Blinds Us to God’s Covenant

By
Ryan Churchill
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god's covenant

Today’s Scripture Lesson: Genesis 34

The Converted Con Man

Genesis 34 finds us in about the midway point of the story of Jacob. If you’ll recall, Jacob managed to swindle his brother, Esau, out of his birthright for a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:31-33), and out of the firstborn’s blessing from Isaac (Genesis 27:35).

By all accounts, Jacob had a well-documented history as a deceiver. But, by this point in his story, Jacob had wrestled with God who told him that he would no longer be called Jacob, but his name would be Israel. Thus, God had revealed to Jacob his covenant identity.

Here in the 34th chapter of Genesis, Jacob’s understanding and acceptance of his God-given identity are put to the test. As we join the story, a man named Shechem has taken Jacob’s daughter, Dinah, and laid with her by force. Being deeply attracted to Dinah and desiring to marry her, Shechem asks his father Hamor, a Hivite, to get Dinah as a wife. Jacob heard that Dinah had been defiled by Shechem, but remained silent on the matter until his sons came in from the field. Upon hearing the news, Jacob’s sons were angered and grieved that such a disgraceful thing was done to their sister – a daughter of Israel.

Contract, Covenant, or Con?

Knowing that Shechem wanted to marry Dinah, Jacob’s sons devised a scheme wherein Shechem, Hamor, and all the rest of the Hivites would enter into covenant with them and become one people. The condition of the covenant was that every male, including Shechem and Hamor, must be circumcised.

Swiftly agreeing to the conditions, every male in the land was circumcised. Then, on the 3rd day after the circumcision, while the men were in great pain, two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, took their swords and killed Shechem, Hamor, and the men of Shechem. Jacob’s sons looted the city, taking livestock, all the wealth, as well as the women and children because Shechem defiled their sister.

What Grabs Your Focus?

One may simply view this passage as a story of a rapist being served justice by the brothers of the victim. It is easy to look at Jacob in this story and assume he had simply checked out of his fatherly duties. Likewise, it is easy to assume Jacob had an incredibly selfish and bizarre response to the actions of his sons.

In our 21st-century mindset, we tend to focus on the victim, Dinah; and, when we have vengeance in our hearts, it’s easy to relate to how her brothers dealt with Shechem. Keep in mind, though, that this is a piece of the overall narrative of Jacob’s transformational and covenantal journey as God’s representative. Thus, Jacob, a seemingly small character in this chapter, still garners our focus.

I don’t make light of rape, and before we go any further, I want to acknowledge with utmost compassion the long-term physical and emotional pain of rape. Having said that, and without condoning, we can concede that, historically, the culture we read about in Genesis 34 viewed women differently than we do today. If we take a moment to trade in our 21st-century lens for an early historical lens, we may take away a different lesson.

Revenge or Redemption?

Jacob and his sons were all concerned about Dinah’s circumstance, but probably less so as a victim and more so as a damaged commodity. Her worth had been completely diminished among her people. Furthermore, Jacob’s sons were more likely concerned with their own personal honor and reputation being damaged.

As a result, Jacob’s sons came up with a solution which would redeem her from this defilement and bring greater power to their own people. By entering into covenant and giving their sister in marriage to Shechem, this would naturally satisfy a culture of arranged marriage. Dinah could walk with her head held high in this culture.

The question still remains: Why was Jacob silent?

As a father, I can only imagine my gut reaction. I can only imagine the rage I would have in my heart. Jacob’s response is counterintuitive, especially for a guy with a sordid past.

I wonder what Jacob’s internal struggle must have been. He must have felt a sense of anger, a sense of failure to protect his daughter, and likely a battle between his fleshly desire to hurt the one who hurt his kid versus providing for her ultimate need to be restored. While this was still his fatherly duty, he may have believed his sons were able to address this need better than himself. I can only imagine Jacob’s thoughts as he humbly watched his sons present a solution to restore Dinah and, had the two sons not acted of their own accord, probably prevent a lot of bloodshed between his men and the men of Shechem.

Ultimately, he watched his sons bring a new people into covenant.

Are you starting to see why Jacob was so angry with his sons for killing Shechem? Jacob, the former con-man’s transformation is critical in this response, but so also is his focus on covenant.

The Heart of Covenant

We usually equate “covenant” with “contract” here in America, but the two are not the same. By entering into covenant with Shechem, Jacob and Shechem said to one another, “Everything I have and everything I am is yours.” The two men were now representing, protecting, and providing for one another.

Even bigger than that, this was an invitation for Shechem to enter into the family of Abraham. Hence, the two men were representing God Himself to one another and the world. Simeon and Levi didn’t simply destroy the men of Shechem, they destroyed God’s covenant people. And, they did so in the name of justice, using God’s covenant to manipulate the situation.

When we reduce this story to that of only rape, swift justice, and a con-man being conned by his own sons – and cheer that on – we miss out on the transforming power of God’s Word and His covenant.

Jacob, a transformed man of God, set aside his fleshly desires and focused on redeeming his daughter. He focused on healing and restoring his daughter. Sadly, Jacob’s sons took a few lessons from his old play book and focused on vengeance. Simeon and Levi allowed their thirst for vengeance to trump any loyalty in representing God’s character by misusing the fruits of His covenant.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

The transformed life is counterintuitive to that which our world presents. James 4:10 tells us, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” In other words, surrender your past, your anger, and your vengeful desires to your Creator, because your heavenly Father is focused on redemption, healing, and restoration.

This isn’t the message the world sells you. But, in accepting God’s grace, we begin to live transformed lives as salt and light in a dark world.

Unpacking Paula White’s & Evangelicals’ Perspective on Trump and America

By
Kim Brightness
-

On a recent appearance this week on the Jim Bakker Show, Pastor Paula White, a member of President Trump’s evangelical advisory board, spoke of Trump’s appeal, how America is in a season of transition, and repeatedly shared that Trump is a Christian.

Catch the full show here; a show snippet can be viewed above.

While we are called to speak truth to power in love, our hearts are grieved by the loud, consistent, perverted use of the gospel of Jesus Christ to unequivocally endorse Trump without likewise holding him accountable for “anti-Christ” words and actions. The evangelical community grows more silent and complicit with each outrageous comment, tweet, and unjust policy of this administration – all while Bible-thumping many go-to verses below.

May we all have ears to hear – what’s the Spirit of Truth saying to the church?

Perspective vs. Truth

“God removes and sets up kings.”
“The powers that be are ordained by God…”

Truth. The Word of God declares in Daniel 2:21 that God removes and sets up kings. While the U.S. has a different type of governmental structure, where there are checks and balances that create a shared government power, the POTUS is the closest resemblance to a king, but without the iron fist of absolute power.

Nonetheless, as followers of Christ, we are to find ourselves subject to the authority of our government, as unto the Lord (Romans 13:1-2). We are also admonished to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:2) so that we will live not only peaceably – but in godliness and honesty. Simply put, Kingdom citizens are to be godly, law-abiding citizens with integrity here on earth.

Updated: My Pastor brings up an important point. If God sets up kings, Pastor White, and “fighting against the plan of God is fighting against the hand of God”, for how much does America have to repent for dethroning kings, presidents, and leaders of sovereign nations that “we” didn’t prefer, installing those “we” did? Who gave America the right to act as god over the hand of the Almighty God? Sadly, there’s probably another manipulation of scripture to justify America’s behavior.

“President Trump is a Christian. He loves prayer.”

Interesting. The word of God says that “with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:10). But, whose mouth?

Let’s be clear, I cannot confess salvation with MY mouth for you, and you cannot confess salvation with YOUR mouth for me. Likewise, neither can any evangelical confess Christ with their mouth for Trump. And, when you have a mouth that lies as much as Trump does, unapologetically, on the consistent – only God can judge whether the heart matches the words spoken. Or can we, also?

Matthew 7:15-20 tells us that good trees bear good fruit, and bad trees bear bad fruit. Simple, right? What Christian fruit does Trump bear? As the body of Christ, commanded to judge each other righteously, how should we judge Trump’s words and actions – “babe in Christ” or not? Salvation may start at the “sinner’s prayer”, but the work of conversion and obedience is another story.

It would serve evangelicals better to allow Trump to use HIS mouth to confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and bear fruit that resembles one who follows the instruction, leading, and commandments of God.

“Principalities cannot control Trump because he surrounds himself with Christians.”

Really? Trump cannot control Trump – and he’s surrounded by Christians. So, are Christians surrounding territory already controlled by principalities? Are Christians “in the way” of Trump’s true salvation and deliverance – because he’s so pumped up by “God sets up kings”?

Lord help us in the day when the body of Christ is no longer salt and light. Let us not be a wall blocking others from seeing the Truth, or a veil that won’t let the fullness of Light in.

“Had God not divinely intervened through the Church, the Church in America would have been an underground church in 5 years.”

Pastor White’s perspective that God used the Church to place Trump in the White House and how that somehow “saved” the church from an underground existence invokes much thought. One, it explains why many evangelicals feel embolden to Trump – he was “God’s man to save the church’s religious freedom”. Two, the Church “putting Trump in position” breeds a false sense of pride and pseudo-arrogance that “WE were the history makers, WE ‘helped’ God make this happen.”

Has anyone read that the Church will be hated and suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12-13)? So, we take pride in a feat that delayed the inevitable? Is this an attempt to bring back the great “glory days” of western religious patriotism, while Trump empowers the sin of racism and white supremacy (unchecked by many evangelicals)? Will there come a time when evangelicals deny their support of Trump?

Yes, you can condemn and denounce the sin and disobedience of a “king” and still be in right order with God. Just ask Samuel (1 Samuel 15:23).

“America can’t be blessed killing babies… so Donald Trump…”

Just so we understand, Pastor White. Is abortion the big black sin of America – once it’s gone, we’ll be cleansed and free from bondage?  Forget all the other killings in America – just focus on the unborn, because God has more respect for babies’ lives?

Do not be deceived, Team. All souls belong to God, and He cares equally about them no matter the “years of life”. And, while we’re condemning murder, don’t forget – those who hate are just as guilty as murderers (1 John 3:15).

“America, enlargement and deliverance is coming. America is in a season of transition.”

Into what? Prosperity or judgment? Blessings or payday for our sins?

Consider this. Could the raising up of President Trump be ordained by God to expose the hearts of His people? President Trump represents the very line of demarcation between submission to the HIGHEST power and submission to power.  Let us not be confused – Jesus Christ sits higher than the one who sits in the Oval Office. The POTUS will have to answer to God, bow both knees, and confess with his mouth that Jesus is Lord – whether Trump ever feels the need to repent or ask God for forgiveness.

“Our country… we want our Supreme Court to look like Neil Gorsuch… With 2 more appointees, we will be able to turnover demonic laws and decrees that have held this nation in captivity.”

Ok. Evangelicals, do you have an understanding that this country was founded on religious freedom – which means freedom OF and FROM religion? The atheist, Buddist, or Muslim has as many rights as a citizen in America as any Christian.

How long will the lies ring out that we are a “Christian nation”?  Were those Christians, perhaps weak in the “thou shalt not kill, steal” department, who murdered native Americans and stole their land?

So, What’s the Play Call?

Examine where your heart is – for that is where your treasure lies (Matthew 6:21). Does your heart yearn for political power, money, and access on earth? Do you treasure love of country more than love of others – friends or foe?

Be sure that your heart conforms to the gospel of Jesus – not bending the gospel to conform to your heart. God help us.

 

Yes! I would like prayer. Please pray for me.

A Broken Spirit, A Repentant Heart, and Ripped Jeans

By
Team Jesus
-
broken spirit

Fedora Hat: Eddie Bauer | Jacket: Zara | Long T-shirt: H&M | Jeans: H&M (personally ripped) | Chelsea Boots: Zara

What’s Up with Ripped Jeans? 

A major question people ask nowadays is, “Why does everyone wear ripped jeans?” I’m sorry to say, I can’t answer this question for everyone. But, I can and will answer for myself.

As fashion does, my style went through many different phases. I remember when I would go to church with preppy styled outfits, you know – button down shirts, slacks, cardigan, and maybe a tie. This phase came to an end when I went through a series of losses. Losing my grandmother, losing my financial aid, losing friendships – all while my character was being corrected.

This period caused a great deal of sadness for me. It made it very difficult to commit to or do anything – even the things I loved. I remember going to church and hoping someone would ask how I was really doing; not just for the sake of small talk, but for a moment of transparency so I could know someone else really cared and was there for me. But, that never happened.

So I began to wonder “Why?” Is it because I’m active and it appears on the surface as if everything in my life is ok? Is it because I dress the part? All of this made me think “I need Jesus” –  He’s the only one who knows what I’m going through and can actually help.

In My Feelings

There was a phrase that I couldn’t let go of –  “It’s not about your feelings.” Just like Jesus didn’t FEEL like carrying the weight of our sins as we saw when He prayed in the garden of Gethsemane in Matthew 26:36-46.

If Jesus could lay down his feelings and die for me, what excuses do I have to not get through this?

Knowing that I have that type of God by my side, I was able to hold on to hope.  As a result, I cared less about what I wore and more about my relationship with Jesus.

The closer I got to Jesus, the more I hated my sins. But, as much as I hated them, I kept committing them time and time again. Felt like a war was going on inside me very similar to what Paul is going through in Romans 7:15-20. This caused my heart to break because no matter how hard I tried, and how much I accomplished, I could not love Jesus in the way He deserved to be loved.

Breaking My Heart

It was because of me Jesus HAD to die because I cannot stop sinning.

Psalms 51:17 reads:

“The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart…” 

That’s where I was. I broke my own heart. I learned that’s exactly where God wanted me to be – broken and humble.  Here I learned that not only does Jesus loves me, but I desperately need Him… every week… every day… every moment!

I wear ripped jeans because my heart was broken. It’s an outward expression of my continuous inward state. What I choose to wear is an expression of who I am as a person, so if someone were to look at me and see my imperfect jeans, I would hope they’d also know I have an imperfect heart and I desperately need Jesus.

Some might say “those aren’t your best”. I might say “yeah, but they’re genuine.” I may be wrong in all of this, but I believe what we wear to church really doesn’t matter. Some of my deepest and most intimate moments with God happened in basketball shorts and a T-shirt.

All I want are those moments to happen as often as possible. I don’t know why everyone else wears ripped jeans, I know why I do… I just want to be genuine.

 

Yes! I would like prayer. Please pray for me.

Summer Slim Down Part 4: 4 Ways to Exercise for Life, for Real

By
Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
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exercise

You can’t exercise your way out of a bad diet.  –Mark Hyman, MD

Exercise is a critical component to overall health and has an abundance of benefits! While individuals can slim down without exercise, it makes the process a lot faster when exercise is involved.  Not only that, exercise helps tone muscle so that YOU appear more fit and firm!

But talking about exercise and doing exercise are two different things.  Carving out time to move, sweat and get your heart rate elevated can be quite the challenge!  Most individuals have good intentions but their day gets busy… Ever said that?!  

So, how do we make the leap from ‘good intentions’ to lifestyle habit?  These are 4 action steps you can take to slim down and take your fitness to the next level!  

1. Add On 5 Minutes

The biggest myth people believe is that they don’t have enough time to exercise.  It is easy to create a perfect scenario in our heads that exercise must look a certain way and last a specific length to be “worth it.”  But if you keep believing that lie, you will stay stuck.  

If you don’t believe that 5 minutes of exercise each day can boost your health and fitness level, then prepare to be amazed when you read this article.  And, this researched exercise method is proven to give you awesome results in less time!

What must happen is adapting the belief that “something is always better than nothing.” Always.  If you begin to think that way, you begin to look at your schedule differently. Instead of seeing ‘no time,’ you will begin to see little pockets of time OR how small tweaks can help you add it in.

While the American College of Sports Medicine recommends individuals participate in 30-60 minutes of exercise most days per week, it is important to begin by taking 1 step exactly where you are.  Everyone can find 5 minutes!  Believe me- it’s waiting to be found!  If you are already exercising, then tack those 5 minutes on to what you are doing right now.  If exercise is not a habit, then begin with 5.  

Interestingly, it is important to note that exercise benefits exist even if a workout is broken up into shorter sessions through the day.  While most individuals find it easier to complete an entire workout at one time, others may find it easier to break it up.

This 5-minute cardio workout will get you sweating in no time.  There are many more that can be found using a search engine.  All you need to do is have your sneakers ready to go!

ACTION STEP: Realistically assess how much exercise you currently get on average.  Set a goal of your current exercise time + 5 minutes.  Commit to this each day this week!  

2. Commit to the Habit…Like Brushing Your Teeth

Every morning you wake up and brush your teeth.  Then, 18 hours later, you brush your teeth (and maybe floss) and go to bed.  It’s non-negotiable – you just do it!  Regardless of whether you are traveling, on vacation, exhausted from a long day or have in-laws visiting for a long weekend, you still do it.  The goal with exercise is for it to become habit – the way you live.  That’s when you know it’s a lifestyle.

It’s not about IF you will exercise today, but WHEN you will exercise today.  People don’t ask themselves if they want to brush their teeth, they do it because they want to have teeth when they are 75 and enjoying retirement!  Decide to make exercise a non-negotiable activity.  It won’t look the same every day – that’s okay!  You likely won’t be able to devote the same time every single day either.  Even when you are out of town, there are creative solutions to fit in fitness.  If you decide exercise is what you do every, single, day, then you will make it happen.

ACTION STEP: Create a mantra or find an inspiring quote and put it in 2 or 3 places in your home, office, car, etc, to remind you of your commitment to yourself and motivate you when the day has been tough.

3. Allow for 1 Grace Day

The reality is that life happens and interferes with well-intentioned plans.  While you may set out each day to exercise, you might oversleep or need to leave the house an hour early for a meeting or be traveling all day long.  The probability that something will occur each week to interrupt your plans is very high.  So, learn to be okay with that and even plan for it.  

For some, the grace or rest day may need to change each week, and for others, it might be consistent.  Some individuals choose Sunday to rest, no matter what.  Others find that the weekend is easier to fit in exercise than weekdays.  Decide what will work best for you and your schedule.  

On these grace days, allow yourself the mental rest along with the physical rest.  Don’t shame yourself or guilt yourself to doubling your workout the next day.  Give yourself 1 day off each week and be okay with that.  

Remind yourself of the importance of rest, rejuvenation, and fun!  It’s okay to be active on these days!  God gave us bodies to move!  But, you don’t need to plan a workout.

ACTION STEP: Look at your calendar this week and choose 1 day to allow for rest.  Consider which day it might be difficult to work in exercise due to scheduled events.

4. Plan WorkOuts 1 Week In Advance

Have you ever wasted 10 minutes trying to figure out what type of exercise you were in the mood to do?  I have!  Those are precious minutes you can’t reclaim!  Instead, look at your calendar once a week and plan out when you will workout, how long and what you will do.  This allows you to observe any potential conflicts and visualize busy days so that you can prepare your mind and schedule to make YOU a priority.  

While some individuals might keep workouts at the same time every day, others might need to change it up depending on a work or family activities schedule.  You don’t need to do what someone else is doing.  Just do what will work for you.  

Good intentions are not actions so make sure that your plan is realistic.  It needs to be challenging enough to be motivating, but not overwhelming.

ACTION STEP: Review your calendar and schedule 1 week of exercise workouts, fitting them into your day.  Make sure that they are an appointment like any other scheduled commitment.  Decide what activity you will do that day and how long you will spend.  Also, consider what items you may need to have with you or how you can troubleshoot potential conflicts.  For example, keep a backup pair of sneakers, socks and workout clothes in the car if you forget to pack them.

So, what’s the play call?

The way to see consistent results is a consistent lifestyle.  The definition of lifestyle is “the way in which a person or group lives life.”  If exercise (or eating habits) fluctuate, it’s unlikely you will see consistent results.  

The most frustrating part of attempting to “slim down” is when we expect to see results but they don’t show up.  Creating patterns and habits that are consistent with your health values are the best way to guarantee you will feel and see results you desire.  

If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done. –Ecclesiastes 4:11(TLB)

You hold the change you want to see.  You can move beyond good intentions and actually create exercise habits that stick.  But if you keep waiting for the perfect week to start, you will be disappointed – it won’t come.  

Choose change today.
Take action.
Then, give yourself a pat on the back – most people can’t do that.
Be the one who can.

 

Yes! I would like prayer. Please pray for me.

Meet the 2017 GMA Dove Awards Nominees

By
Editorial Staff
-
Source: GMA Dove Awards

LAUREN DAIGLE AND ZACH WILLIAMS LEADING ARTIST NOMINATIONS WITH FIVE EACH

CHRIS TOMLIN, CROWDER, KIRK FRANKLIN AND NEEDTOBREATHE HONORED WITH FOUR NODS EACH

Awards to be held live Tuesday, October 17 at Lipscomb University and will air on TBN on Sunday, October 22 at 8 p.m. CT

The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced the nominees for the 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards. The awards show will take place on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville at 6:30 p.m. CST. Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) will exclusively air the awards show on Sunday, October 22, reaching over 100 million viewers in the U.S., plus global and multi-platform distribution. Voting for the final winners will run August 21 through August 28.

Zach Williams and Lauren Daigle lead artist nominations with five, followed by Chris Tomlin, Crowder, Kirk Franklin and NEEDTOBREATHE with four nods each. Top nominated writer/producer Wayne Haun scored six nods, and Bernie Herms and David Garcia have five nods each. View the full list of nominees here.

“I’m thrilled to celebrate another year of Dove Awards nominations!” GMA President Jackie Patillo stated. “Our artists and creatives sacrifice year-round to share their sound with the world. Our theme this year is Sound the Remedy; we believe the message of Gospel and Christian music offers God’s remedy to the world.”

The GMA Dove Awards celebrate the contributions of artists from every style of Christian/Gospel music. Nominees are determined by over 1,500 professional members, and winners will be voted on by the entire GMA membership of nearly 2,500. For more information or to purchase tickets to the show, visit www.doveawards.com. 

And the Nominees Are…

ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Chris Tomlin, sixsteprecords/Sparrow Records
for KING & COUNTRY, Word Entertainment
Hillsong United, Hillsong Music Australia/Sparrow Records
MercyMe, Fair Trade Services
TobyMac, ForeFront Records

SONG OF THE YEAR

“Chain Breaker” – (writers) Jonathan Smith, Mia Fieldes, Zach Williams
“Come Alive (Dry Bones)” – (writers) Lauren Daigle, Michael Farren
“Even If” – (writers) Bart Millard, Ben Glover, Crystal Lewis, David Garcia, Tim Timmons
“Eye Of The Storm” – (writers) Bryan Fowler, Ryan Stevenson
“Feel Invincible” – (writers) John Cooper, Seth Mosley
“Great Are You Lord” – (writers) David Leonard, Jason Ingram, Leslie Jordan
“King Of The World” – (writers) Sam Mizell, Becca Mizell, Natalie Grant
“O Come To The Altar” – (writers) Chris Brown, Mack Brock, Steven Furtick, Wade Joye
“The Lion & The Lamb” – (writers) Brenton Brown, Brian Johnson, Leeland Mooring
“Thy Will” – (writers) Bernie Herms, Emily Lynn Weisband, Hillary Scott
“What a Beautiful Name” – (writers) Ben Fielding, Brooke Ligertwood

WORSHIP SONG OF THE YEAR

“Ever Be” – (writers) Bobby Strand, Chris Greely, Gabriel Wilson, Kalley Heiligenthal
“Fierce” – (writers) Chris Quilala, Joshua Silverberg, Mia Fieldes
“O Come To The Altar” – (writers) Chris Brown, Mack Brock, Steven Furtick, Wade Joye
“The Lion & The Lamb” – (writers) Brenton Brown, Brian Johnson, Leeland Mooring
“What a Beautiful Name” – (writers) Ben Fielding, Brooke Ligertwood

CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL/URBAN WORSHIP ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Let Them Fall In Love – CeCe Winans
Worship Journal Live – Fred Hammond
One Way – Tamela Mann
Secret Place – Vashawn Mitchell
Demonstrate – William Murphy

NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Bri (Brianna Babineaux), Marquis Boone Enterprises/Tyscot Records
Micah Tyler, Fair Trade Services
Social Club Misfits, Capitol CMG Label Group
Steven Malcolm, Word Entertainment
Zach Williams,  Provident Label Group

GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR

CeCe Winans, Pure Springs Gospel
Kirk Franklin, Fo Yo Soul Recordings/RCA Inspiration
Tamela Mann, TillyMann Music Group
Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Motown Gospel
Travis Greene, RCA Inspiration

BLUEGRASS/COUNTRY/ROOTS RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR

“Don’t Give Up On Me” – Bradley Walker
“Little White Church House” – Doug Anderson
“When Grandpa Sang Amazing Grace” – The Nelons
“Back to God” – Reba McEntire
“Rocks” – The Isaacs

POP/CONTEMPORARY ALBUM OF THE YEAR

The Very Next Thing – Casting Crowns
Rise – Danny Gokey
The River – Jordan Feliz
Lifer – MercyMe
Chain Breaker – Zach Williams

INSPIRATIONAL FILM OF THE YEAR

“Ben Hur” – (producers) LightWorkers Media, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), Paramount Pictures, Sean Daniel Company
“The Case For Christ” – (producers) Triple Horse Studios, Pure Flix Entertainment
“I’m Not Ashamed” – (producers) Visible Pictures, Big Film Factory, Pure Flix Entertainment
“Priceless” – (producer) Roadside Attractions
“The Shack” – (producers) Netter Productions, Summit Entertainment

About GMA:
Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the Gospel through music of all styles including Pop, Rock, Praise & Worship, Urban Gospel, R&B, Hip Hop, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Country, Latin and more. The GMA community includes agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards and IMMERSE. For more on supporting the GMA or becoming a member, please visit www.gospelmusic.org. 

Dear Woman of God, What is Your Life Saying?

By
Brandi Hawthorne
-
woman of god

Your Life Speaks

Did you know that your life communicates with others all the time?

If I were to watch a silent, black and white video of you walking through your day, what would your life say to me?

When Team Jesus Magazine publisher and CEO, Kim Bright(ness), said she was naming this column Her Life Speaks, it was a smirk and raised eyebrow kind of moment (see my first article, Knotted Up) because only God can give those kinds of “I know your heart” surprises.

Above all else, I want people to look at me and see that I am a Christ worshipper and follower, and preferably see this without my having to utter a word.

But, as we all know, God is a God of levels. Once we pass a test, it’s time to move forward to the next.

Find Your Life’s Voice

I’ve heard and read some interesting quotes that I think indicate the passing of one level and the beginning of another. I’d like to share them with you, along with questions for you to ponder:

“You’re dishonest with the truth of who you are and what you really legitimately want. Why are you praying and believing for something that you’re hyper-resistant to believe? You need a spanking that wakes you up out of small thinking and safe living and sameness that makes you beige in a world that’s asking for you to be red hot.” -Allyson Byrd

If beige was a 0 and red hot was a 10, what number would you rate your life?

Jesus’ life was red hot. If you’re living “beige”, what was He doing that you’re not doing?
If Jesus lives in you, what example of His do you need to follow more?

 

If you want to make a significant impact in the lives of others, you better find your voice and be brave enough to use it. -Joe Duncan

In his book, The 8th Habit, Stephen R. Covey says that when you engage in work (professional, community, family) that taps your talent and fuels your passion—work that rises out of a great need in the world that you feel drawn by conscience to meet—therein lies your voice, your calling, your soul’s code.

Have you discovered your voice?
How can you use it more?

 

We’re all born individuals but too many of us die copy cats.
-Skylar Diggins-Smith

Do you remember yourself as a child?
In what ways were you freer then?
If your younger self met you now, what would she tell you?
When’s the last time you did something original or unique?

 

“There’s trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests—look how many scoundrel preachers were approved by your ancestors! Your task is to be true, not popular. -Jesus (Luke 6:26)

In what ways are you living a lie? Who are you at your core? How can she show up more often?

So, What’s the Play Call?

Your life is always communicating something to onlookers. Make sure that as it speaks, it’s saying what God created it to say.

Like Maxine & David: 4 Ways to Reclaim Your Time and Recover All

By
Kim Brightness
-
reclaiming my time

Yes, Team. The Internet has no chill.

You’ve really been off radar (not a bad thing) if you haven’t seen the memes, viral gospel video spoof, or merchandise sales of U.S. Congresswoman Maxine Waters and the now infamous declaration “Reclaiming My Time” during last week’s House Financial Services Committee meeting (see the congressional video for details).

Rep. Waters’ statement has unintentionally sparked a resolution in many to reclaim their time – from lost relationships, missed opportunities, financial mistakes, to simply deciding to make a positive life change in the here and now.

So, where have WE seen the play call to reclaim before, Team Jesus?

When I thought about this idea of REclaiming what belongs to me, in a biblical context, the first person who mastered this play for me was David. Let’s see how we can all take notes.

Take Back What the Enemy Took from You!

In 1 Samuel 30, we find a worn out David and his 600 men returning home to Ziklag. After many battles, on the run, hiding in the wilderness from Saul who sought to kill David (1 Samuel 23:14), David and his band of men were finally home.

But, instead of being greeted by family and finding rest, the Amalekites had burned the city to the ground and taken all of the men’s wives and children captive (1 Samuel 30:2).

Have you ever felt robbed of your time, joy, peace, loved ones you’re praying for by the enemy? Has that enemy ever been the “Enemy in-a-me”?

Team, with every loss there is a lesson – and sometimes the lesson is one of how to reclaim or recover all. And, since we serve the exceeding, abundantly, above all we could ask or think God (Ephesians 3:20), we are graced with opportunities to use the power that works in us to reclaim and/or recover in victory.

Does your loss seem too great to reclaim? Are you beginning to lose hope that you’ll ever recover all?

You, too, like Maxine and David, have the right to exercise your authority to reclaim and recover what’s yours!

How Do I Reclaim My Time and Recover All?

1. Strengthen Yourself in the Lord.

Loss is draining. Disappointments and frustrations will wear you out! Reclaiming our time, our peace… recovering our joy, our confidence, our hope won’t happen by our own strength (Zechariah 4:6). How do we know? Because if we had the power and might, would we have ever lost it, had the setback, taken the hit, fallen off?

No, the strength to reclaim and recover all will come from your Help (Psalms 121:1-2). The Lord your God will send His Spirit to minister to you when, like David, everyone despises you or blames you for the misfortune. It may seem like no one is on your side, but don’t worry, Team, God’s got your back! He will give you the strength to carry the blessings of 1000% recovery!

2. Consult God as to What is Recover-able.

This is important. While most, if not all, losses may hurt, some losses are beautiful blessings. How many times have you mourned the loss of a job, possession, a relationship, only to realize later that the loss was a blessing? Wisdom and maturity tells us – some “losses” are not purposed to ever be reclaimed or recovered.

So, before you take your strength and run after a loss, follow David’s example and consult God (1 Samuel 30:8). Ask God for His perfect will concerning the loss. And, if God says, “Go after it”, seek His guidance and provision along the journey to go after it His way, in His time.

3. Use What God Gave You – It Still Works!

For many of you in a “loss” season – this is not your first rodeo. You’ve experienced set backs, perhaps an illness, or a hurtful disappointment before and lived to tell the story of victory.

Though David faced a devastating loss and must now fight, again, to reclaim his family, he was able to take with him something that reminded him of God’s faithfulness to deliver – the same sword he’d used to slay Goliath (1 Samuel 21:8-9)!

Didn’t the weapon of fasting and praying work for you before? Didn’t following God’s lead to a strategy you would never have thought of work the last time? Wasn’t your obedience and service to God the main qualifier in that unqualified scenario back then? Stick with what works; remember your testimonies and lean on God’s ability to do it again!

4. Maintain a Giving, Kind Spirit on the Recovery Journey.

Though exhausted, sad, and angry, David was presented with 2 opportunities to show a kind, giving heart on his recovery journey. One to the young Egyptian man who showed him where to find the Amalekites and his wives (1 Samuel 30:12), and another to the 200 men who didn’t go to battle with David, but stayed behind at the brook (1 Samuel 30:10, 1 Samuel 30:24).

With the young Egyptian man, we see how kindness will win you favor faster than revenge. Even though the man was a servant to the very people who destroyed David’s city and took his wives, the man was more willing to reveal the hiding place of the Amalekites with “honey vs. vinegar”.  You never know when treating a perceived enemy with kindness will work in your favor.

For the 200 men who stayed behind, David blessed them with their portion of the spoils – even though the men who did fight thought the “bystanders” only deserved their wives and families (1 Samuel 30:22).

How many of us would bless those who didn’t fight or contribute directly to our recovery, win, or success? David was clear – recovery belongs to God. It was God’s blessing to give, and David would not be stingy with what did not belong to him.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Pursue, overtake, and rescue (1 Samuel 30:8). Go boldly and confidently with God – get it ALL back, and then some!

All I Need is Jesus, and Fashion

By
Team Jesus
-
fashion

Sleeveless blazer: Elle | Pants: H&M | Shoes: Missguided

Fashion is My Passion

Fashion is a way for me to express myself. I love that I can think of something and then bring it to life visually. Just like people express themselves by singing, photography, poetry or even playing sports, I express myself with the artistry of fashion. It’s a place I can go and be creative and be myself. I can be centered with my thoughts and free my mind. I love that I can express myself in this type of way.

Before, I never thought it was a gift from God because, to me, gifts from God were more so singing, playing instruments, production – anything along those lines. But as I got older and deeper into the Word, I saw that fashion was my passion and my gift. It wasn’t just a phase in my life. It’s something that I am very much interested in and it comes naturally to me without even thinking twice. It’s what I call my “happy place” and now I see that it is a gift from God himself.

“Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

With fashion, I can reach people from all over the world in different walks of life and inspire them to look good and feel good – which is something that I love. I’m glad I can be an inspiration and a light to this world which can, at times, be dark and lonely.

One of my favorite, go-to verses is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). I love that scripture because it not only gives me hope, but it assures me that with Christ on my side, I can conquer anything that comes my way. It keeps me motivated in difficult times because I know that I can and will overcome anything.

Along with scripture and fashion, I stay grounded and motivated in my aspirations and know that with the gifts God has given me, I can do great things in His Kingdom and in this world.

 

Yes! I would like prayer. Please pray for me.

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