Subscribe
Monday, July 14, 2025
88.8 F
Atlanta
type here...
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 94

What’s the Big Deal About Kenny Sway?

By
Brandi Hawthorne
-
kenny sway

If you’re following Team Jesus Mag on Facebook, you may have seen a video of inspirational singer and street evangelist, Kenny Sway, reppin’ Jesus on the street corners of D.C.’s Chinatown, with an iPhone and Mr. Microphone setup. Team Jesus Magazine publisher, Kim Bright, and I had the pleasure of witnessing Kenny in action while we were in D.C. for Together 2016.

Strolling down Chinatown after a debrief dinner, we heard someone singing.

“Who is that?” I asked no one in particular.

A local girl walking by heard me and responded, “He’s always here.”

Interest piqued, we continued walking toward the music. Kim and I joined a crowd of 20+ bystanders who had formed a semi-circle around Kenny. Although everyone was in transit, hastily making their way to somewhere, once they encountered Kenny in worship, their hustle and bustle slowed to a stop.

The crowd was a mix of men and women, young and old, all different races and nationalities. Some were locals and others were tourist like us.

The audience swayed back and forth, waving their hands, as Kenny began singing How Great is Our God by Chris Tomlin. Some had their hands clasped in front of their faces, eyes shut tight. Others were exalting God and wiping tears from their eyes.

We put our phones down long enough to give each other nods that said, “Yeah, this guy is awesome.”

What’s the Big Deal About Kenny Sway Singing Christian Songs on a Street Corner?

He’s who most Christians desire to be. He’s a doer (James 1:22).

And, the big deal is that it really shouldn’t be a big deal!

We’ve all been graced with spiritual gifts and natural talents (Romans 12:6-8). Seeing someone use their gift whenever, wherever should be a normal occurrence.

Sadly, it isn’t.

We’ve forgotten why God sent us here. We’ve put our #1 priority (Ephesians 2:10) on the back burner and covered it with fear and excuses of inadequacy:

Once I lose weight…

Once I have my degree…

When I have more free time…

When I have more money…

When I have more followers…

When I get a new computer, camera, website…

But, what if they don’t like me…?

But, what if I embarrass myself…?

God never put these restrictions on our gifts. He simply told us to go and tell the world about Him (Matthew 28:19)

What Do I Do to be a Better Doer?

So if you eat, or if you drink, or if you do anything, do it for the glory of God. (1 Cor. 10:31)

1.  Do what you know you should do (James 4:17).

We can be so focused on our future and our purpose that we twiddle our thumbs waiting for something to happen, and neglect the instructions we’ve already been given by God.

No matter who you are or what stage of life you’re in, you should be reading your Bible (Joshua 1:8), praying (Philippians 4:6-7), asking God for wisdom (James 1:5), uplifting others (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and the list goes on.

We don’t have to pray about these things. These are standards for Christian living.

2.  Do what you know you should do, quickly (Psalm 119:60).

When you hear from God via your Bible readings, a sermon, or a prompting from the Holy Spirit, act on it. It does us no good to only hear the Word. We must obey the Word to see its fruit.

Like Kenny, we must be doers.

I have not sat down with Kenny to know what prompted him to spend his Saturday night praising God on the streets of D.C., but one thing I know for sure – Kenny made no excuses for his calling.

He had a speaker, a microphone, and a cell phone with instrumental versions of Christian songs.

He was dressed in street clothes.

He wasn’t passing out business cards or promoting himself. In fact, I found someone who looked like he was an acquaintance of Kenny’s, and the young guy didn’t even know his first name.

You want to know something that made me chuckle a bit?

At one time, Kenny’s song skipped.

“Oh no,” I thought to myself.

He started the song over, began singing, and it skipped again.

I cringed.

If I were performing live and the song kept skipping, my thoughts would go something like this:

Oh my gosh. The song is skipping. Why me? Not now! People are going to walk away. I’m going to be standing here by myself. I look so foolish. What if it won’t work? Oh my gosh. What am I doing here?

But, Kenny wasn’t performing for man. He was using his gifts for God.

And, the crowd? They weren’t there for the vocal stylings of Kenny Sway.

They kept singing. And, some even shouted, “Do it without the music!”

What originally drew them there, kept them there even when the track skipped — it was the glory of God.

I chuckled because I love when God uses a random post-dinner stroll to reinforce something He’s been speaking even to my heart. Go!

What Do You Need to Do NOW?

The thing about procrastination is: We aren’t promised tomorrow (Psalm 102:11).

God has put an abundance of awesomeness (desires, ideas, personality traits, gifts, talents) in us. And, He expects us to use what He has given us to serve Him and others.

Putting it off until tomorrow does us and the people we’ve been called to serve a disservice. He didn’t tell us to go when the conditions were perfect. He just told us to go and to trust that He will equip us and never leave us. If we plant and water the seeds, He will cause them to grow.

So, what’s the play call?

While it is daytime, we must continue doing the work of the one who sent me. The night is coming, and no one can work at night. (John 9:4)

That God-sized dream that tugs on your heart, the one you’ve put at the bottom of your to-do list or have tried to erase altogether, begin walking towards it today.

The first step may be seeking more guidance from God, research on the Internet, or finding someone who is familiar with your desire. Your first step may be truthfully identifying where you are now so that you can assess your next step. Perhaps it’s time to pull out your study guides and prepare for an exam, or finally call to schedule the exam. Whatever it is, do it quickly. Don’t let anyone or anything convince you to procrastinate any longer. Do not strive for perfection, instead, get used to relying on God to lead you step-by-step. You simply need to be obedient.

The Christian’s Response to Terror Attacks

By
Lamica A. Burnett
-
terror attacks

“God’s mercy is only 20 inches away.”

In my opinion, these words were among the most profound spoken at Together 2016 held last week on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.  Pastor Louie Giglio pointed to our nation’s most recent tragedies headlined by news outlets across the country. While we as a nation search for solutions to resolve the ills of our society, he noted that we often look for hope in the wrong places.

From Wall Street to Hollywood, to the steps of The White House, our search is futile and useless if we neglect the divine.  The shortest journey we can take to find what our desperate souls cry out for is the simple act of bowing our knees to the ground in humble surrender to God. His full prayer is found here.

Lawn chairs were pushed aside and picnic blankets became knee pads as thousands of my brothers and sisters knelt before God in prayer.

What Do You Do When Terror Comes for You

Pastor Louie shared the plan of King Jehoshaphat against terror, and how through our weakness God’s power becomes evident (2 Chronicles 20).

In case you are not familiar with the story of King Jehoshaphat, here is a brief recap:

Jehoshaphat was the 4th King of the Kingdom of Judah and ruled after his father Asa.   He followed his father’s example and commitment to serving God.  While he was a good king who enjoyed some military success, he made the mistake of making an alliance with an evil king by the name of Ahab, which almost cost him his life.  In 2 Chronicles 20, Jehoshaphat faces the greatest crisis he has ever known as a leader: 3 armies are on their way to annihilate King Jehoshaphat and his people. Needless to say, when King Jehoshaphat heard the news of the impending attack, he was terrified – but he had a “master” plan.

When the Enemy Comes in Like a Flood

King Jehoshaphat set himself to seek the Lord. He called for the entire nation to fast and pray. While in prayer, he proclaimed that God was the Ruler of kingdoms and nations.  He declared that power and might was in God’s hand, and that no one could stand against Him. King Jehoshaphat cried out to God – our enemies are coming after us and the land given to us as an inheritance.  He admitted that they didn’t know what to do. He admonished the nation to come together and look to God.

During the prayer, the Lord provided them with a strategy against the approaching armies. The Spirit of the Lord came on Jahaziel and he shared God’s word for the hour.

“Do not be afraid, do not be dismayed for the battle is not yours but God’s. You will not need to fight this battle. Stand firm, hold your position and see the salvation of the Lord.”

Second Chronicles chapter 20 goes on to say that the singers went out ahead of the army. Can you imagine this enormous battle scene?  A group of singers facing multiple armies? Can you see the worship leaders on the front lines of the war with nothing visible to protect them? They followed God’s instruction and were armed with a song.

As the people began to lift their voices aloud in praise to God, the scripture says that the Lord sent an ambush against the three armies.  An ambush is described as a surprise attack. Imagine the faces of the armies as the singers began to worship God. The songs of praise confused the armies and they began to attack one another. Jehoshaphat and his men were unharmed because of their obedience to God!

So, what’s the play call? 

In these uncertain times, Follow King Jehoshaphat’s strategy against terror:

  • Admit that you don’t know what to do!  A lot of times we as humans think we already know all the answers. The reality is that our vision is often limited if we don’t ask God for his direction.
  • Seek the Lord in prayer and call for a family fast.  Yes, I can admit fasting will be a sacrifice, but we will have to give up something in order to make room for something better in our lives.
  • Remind God of his Word and his promises, specifically to you and your family.
  • Ask God for strategy and then get in a quiet place to receive his instruction.
  • Send your song of praise to God ahead of you and watch it fight for you.

Are All Non-Christians Going to Hell?

By
Editorial Staff
-

It’s the age-old question that Christians and non-Christians alike have asked. The question of eternity – who’s going to heaven, and who’s going to hell – is one not often met with a simple yes or no. Listen to Dr. Ravi Zacharias‘ answer in one of his Q&A sessions. What are your thoughts?

Dear Kelly Price: Open Letter on Church Bigotry and Hate

By
Kim Brightness
-
kelly price

For readers unfamiliar with the background of this story, please read here and here; view Ms. Price’s public videos one, two, three, and four.

Dear Ms. Price,

First, thank you for the invitation and willingness to use your platform for a public discussion on church bigotry and hate.  As one of Christ’s representatives, and as a contender for the faith, I likewise welcome the discussion.

Please allow me to start off with an apology for the Body of Christ. If someone or persons in the Church hated on or spoke ill of you, disrespected you, or intentionally embarrassed you – that’s not how we’re supposed to conduct ourselves as Christians. We are sorry, please forgive those individuals.

A few points as you read:

  • I will use “the Church” and “the body of Christ” interchangeably.
  • My use of scripture is not to lambast, unfairly judge, or appear “holier than thou”. The Word of God is the Church’s playbook; we respect the Bible as our manual to teach, correct, guide, and instruct how we are to live.
  • To our knowledge, the public only has access to statements by Ms. Price and the Indiana Black Expo (IBE) – no statements from those accused of “church bigotry and hate” have surfaced. Our letter will ask many questions and make conditional statements in hopes to hear from those presently missing from the discussion (e.g. the Gospel Explosion emcee, other church leaders, or attendees).

Let’s chat…

Questions for Kelly Price

  1. Have you or your team reached out to the Gospel Explosion emcee or others to share your hurt and anger, dialogue one-on-one, hear each others’ heart? If not, do you have plans to? In retrospect, was it a good idea to leave the stage in anger, hop on social media with the story – before speaking 1:1 with those who offended you?

kelly price tweet

  1. If you “didn’t know” you were on the gospel stage, is it possible the emcee also “didn’t know” or expect to hear a song about adultery? As you were doing “what you were asked to do”, is it possible the emcee was doing “what she was asked to do” – manage the flow and expectations of a gospel event? Was she and all attendees caught in the same awkward cross-hairs as you were?

kelly price tweet 2

kelly price tweet 3

  1. Since the IBE has taken full responsibility for the mishap in scheduling that caused the confusion, do you still feel that leading with accusations of “church bigotry and hate” is warranted, or was it a rush to judgment amidst the hurt and anger?

ibe

  1. In your responses, you have concurred that As We Lay is inappropriate for a gospel event, and with knowledge, you could have “prepared better”. Have you since come to understand why “church folks” were so offended, shocked, explaining the situation to their children present, etc? Were you hurt and angry at the way in which they voiced their offense, or that they voiced their offense at all?
  1. As a preacher’s kid (PK) with 24 years of ministry to “expose what is not authentic”, do you truly believe your responses displayed the love of God, and that God was pleased with your ministerial approach? Do you believe there’s no responsibility or apology due on your part?

kelly price tweet 4

Bigotry and Hate: Does the Church Give, Receive, or Both?

To discuss church bigotry, let’s first agree on what a bigot or bigotry is.

In reading the definitions, a key word – intolerance – stands out as a factor that makes bigotry undesirable. Intolerance is “unwillingness or refusal to respect contrary opinions or beliefs, persons of different races or backgrounds, etc.” When a person is intolerant, he or she does not accept, is not patient with, does not allow or bear with something undesirable or unpleasant.

Let’s be honest. All of us are strongly partial to our own groups – look at our favorite sports teams, fraternities/sororities, houses of worship – we all have loyalties and preferences from which we won’t budge. We’re intolerant and uninterested in changing our tunes.

Is that bigotry?

There are also certain actions we won’t tolerate. We speak up when we feel disrespected, we fight back when we feel we’re in danger, we fire employees or hire new vendors when there’s incompetence.  We show no tolerance or acceptance.

Does that make us bigots?

Can the Church be intolerant, without being a bigot?

First, the Body of Christ is commissioned to love and be welcoming to all – whosoever will, let them come.

Likewise, the Church has a biblical duty to stand in agreement with God – if God is for it, we’re for it; if God is against it, we’re against it.

Please understand, one cannot bring just anything to the Church that’s out of the will or order of God, and expect tolerance and acceptance. The love the Church shows to others should never be confused with approval of that which is contrary to our beliefs. Just as the world stands proud and tall for what it believes, the Body of Christ will be bold, speak loud, and take a stand for the standards of Jesus Christ.

Does that make us bigots?

How Valid is Your Victim Card?

“You’re judging me.”  “Church folks are hating me.”

Here’s a major problem. Many people, both in and outside the Church, call “foul play” when someone speaks the truth according to God’s word. “Church folks are always judging!” When toes are stepped on, when conviction by the Holy Spirit occurs, human nature fights back, doesn’t it? Our flesh begins the blame game, the pity party, we deflect, we make excuses.

We rarely, if ever, run to the scripture where Jesus says,  “Judge fairly.” Nope. Our favorite go-to verse is the one we use (in isolation, out of context) to back folks up – “Don’t judge.”

It’s easier to attack the messenger (the Church) than the One who sent the messenger – God.

The question becomes: Are you angry with the Church, or with what God said?

Only in truth and authenticity can one answer this question for his or herself. God, who looks at our hearts, knows the truth and will lead us to it, if we’re willing to go.

If One Stinks, All Church Folks Stink

Just as you are one of many in your family, so is the Body of Christ. We are many members, from all walks of life, with our own issues, hang ups, sins, and life experiences.

What would it be like if an entire family was convicted and sent to prison for the crimes of Uncle Lenny?  “No! You’re a Smith too! All of you are Smiths, so all of you are guilty and will be punished!”

Pretty sad, right?

Are there hypocrites, bigots, haters in the body of Christ? Does Church bigotry and hatred happen? Sadly, yes.

No one can wear the label “Church” or “Christian” or “Pastor” as a get out of jail free card to mistreat people.  If anyone offends the least of these, you will give an account for your actions – we all will!  But we are also offered grace and forgiveness by faith in Jesus Christ!

Have you ever noticed –

EVERYONE has an “I’m not Perfect, God is Still Working on Me Card”
– except church folks?!

Think about it.

Just as God loves you, and is “not through with you yet”, he’s working on each and every member of the Body of Christ too!

I can only imagine how the Gospel Expo emcee felt to be publicly accused as “the reason people won’t come to Jesus or church...”

Never hold the bad experience you had with one or a few as representing the entire Church – and then lambast “church folks”. What that can actually reveal is two things: 1) a search for a scapegoat – “I would go to church, but church folks will do you wrong!”; or 2) A trigger for unresolved, deep wounds that have once again resurfaced.

The “Church” didn’t hurt you, friends, an imperfect person who’s still in process in the Church did. In God’s love, there is peaceful and graceful resolution for everyone’s heart involved.

Do All Things in Love

Church, Ms. Price, All:  Let’s ask God to search, know, and heal our hearts:

God, we lay down our pretense, our status, our titles, our leadership positions, and ask that you help us do a better job at being living examples of Your Love. Help us to follow peace and be gentle with all whom we encounter. We don’t know their stories or what they’re dealing with, but You do. Give us kind hearts that feel for and empathize with each other. Please show us how to win back those who are hurting because one of your children missed the mark. Give us all hearts that forgive and are quick to give a another chance, just like our Father.

We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thank you for hearing my heart; may healing discussions continue.

 

Update:

kelly price

Here is the response from Kelly Price (or her team/Mgmt).  After the tweet above, I was blocked. Surprised lol? Yeah, I am. We could’ve had a sisterly, PK discussion with the goal of us ALL healing our biases and doing better in the future.

Three reflections on this response and experience:

  1. It’s often easier to accuse “the church” than to face the church or yourself. When “the church” is the opponent, people will run to chime in and get their “lick” in, but are MIA to have real dialogue to promote healing and redemption.
  2. The body of Christ is not all talk, no action.  There are those on the team who will SHOW UP and stand objectively on the Word of God – it speaks to us all no matter who we are.
  3. Bias against the CHURCH is real. There are some who need to forgive “church folks” and “church” experiences, just as followers of Christ need to do a better job at showing love.

Save

Save

Together 2016: Commissioned to Go Ye Therefore

By
Editorial Staff
-

It was one of the hottest days of the summer – for more than the obvious reasons.

On 7.16.16, Christians from all backgrounds, cultures, and ages gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. to fervently pray for the nation, and petition Jesus Christ for a “reset”.

A free event presented in partnership with more than 250 Bible-believing organizations, Together 2016 featured an amazing line-up of more than 40 speakers, pastors, artists, and leaders. Notable participants included Hillsong United, Francis Chan, Sammy Rodriguez, Lecrae, Tedashii, Trip Lee, Andy Mineo, KB, Kirk Franklin, Ravi Zacharias, Lauren Daigle, Christine Caine, IF Gathering, and many more.

 

nick-hallNick Hall of PULSE, a prayer and evangelism movement, led the charge for Together 2016 to “lay down what divides us — politics, race, social issues, theological differences – to come together and lift up Jesus who unites us.  He is the only one who can reset our nation.” Reset    is a term that has been resonating with young people because it represents the clearing of past errors, as with various electronic devices; a reset gets the system working toward its created purpose.

Jesus is the Reset

After short praise and worship sets, each speaker or artist shared encouragement, the promises of God, and perhaps most importantly, the call to prayer and repentance. With hands lifted to the sky and voices crying out, participants answered the call of “If my people who are called by my name would humble themselves and pray; seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…”  You could hear the cries of people around the National Mall, small groups of 5-10 people who arrived in Washington, D.C. as strangers, but would leave as new brothers and sisters in Christ.

policeHours into the event, the goal to make #JesusChangesEverything trend on social media was achieved, and the Internet took a slight reprieve from hashtags that represented the fallen. With our nation battling unjust killings of African-Americans and police officers alike, it was an amazing opportunity to speak with D.C. officers who had a heart to serve and protect the people.

Organizers spared no expense on the event, from the mammoth stage and jumbotrons, to air-conditioned VIP and Partners’ tents stocked with water and snacks. As partners of Together 2016, we appreciated the cool breaks and the chance to meet and network with other Christian organizations. Event volunteers and staff were both knowledgeable and easy-spirited, especially given the massive attendance and extremely muggy heat.

We’re hopeful organizers took note of the July temperatures, and will consider a spring or early fall date for the next event. Due to the heat index and hundreds of heat-related illnesses, Together 2016 was shut down hours earlier than expected. However, the commission of our Lord and Savior was heard, and participants were eager to go forth and fill their communities with the love of Christ.

 

Philando Castile’s Girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, Released from Custody

By
Editorial Staff
-

Philando Castile’s girlfriend, who live-streamed the St. Paul police killing during a routine traffic stop on Facebook, speaks to reporters after her release this morning.

Mr. Castile was shot and killed as he reached for his driver’s licence, as shared by Ms. Reynolds in the video.

Today’s aftermath follows the death of Alton Sterling, who was shot dead by police outside a convenience store in Baton Rouge on Tuesday. Hundreds of people have protested for two nights over Mr Sterling’s killing.

The deaths follow a long line of high-profile fatalities involving African-Americans at the hands of the police, igniting a national debate about the use of lethal force.

Team, remember that faith without works is dead. Jesus calls for us to be one.  As one body, we call followers of Christ of ALL RACES to pay attention, step up, and speak out about these atrocities.

Team Jesus in the U.S.: Make sure you’re registered to vote. Hold your mayoral candidates accountable for the police chiefs they appoint and police policies they support.

Christian Mingle: Accommodate the LGBT Lifestyle, Or Pay Up!

By
Kim Brightness
-
gay rights

Move over siren-screeching ambulance – there’s a new lucrative target for lawyers to chase.

Last week, the Christian dating site, ChristianMingle.com, was ordered by a Superior Court judge in California to remove “man seeking woman” and “woman seeking man” options and accommodate same-sex searches on its site.  The lawsuit was filed in 2013 by two gay men against Spark Networks, Inc., the dating site’s owner.

According to the Wall Street Journal:

Christian Mingle, billed as the largest online community for Christian singles, required new users to specify whether they’re a man seeking a woman or a woman seeking a man. The lead plaintiffs, two gay men who tried using it, claimed that the limited options violated California’s anti-discrimination law.

Known as the Unruh Civil Rights Act, the state law requires “business establishments” to offer “full and equal accommodations” to people regardless of their sexual orientation.

Under the agreement, the gateway homepages now ask just whether a user is a “man” or a “woman.” Spark Networks agreed that within two years, it would adjust other searching and profile features to give gay and lesbian singles a more tailored experience.

Additionally, Spark Networks was ordered to pay a $9,000 service award to each plaintiff, and pay $450,000 to cover the plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees.

“Love” Winning is Not Enough

Is gay rights about equal rights or special rights?

One could logically question whether the LGBT agenda is about “love” wins, or “love” whines.

Take note Christian businesses in California: In less than 0.45 seconds, a search for “gay dating site” on Google returns approximately 3.2 million search results.

3.2 Million.

Interesting how these 2 men were “harmed” while armed with a plethora of sites and apps to choose from.  And if none of the sites (unequivocally within their target market) interested them or showed any promise (very unlikely, no?), did they not have the freedom to start yet another?

Where’s the Protection for Christian Beliefs?

Perhaps the tides are turning and we’re seeing concrete, court-supported reverse discrimination and bullying against Christians’ religious beliefs.

Bible-believing Christians note that there are multiple references to homosexuality in either the Old or New Testament. A question to self-proclaimed gay Christians: Where is homosexual behavior ever held in a positive light, pleasing, praised, or deemed a desirable practice according to the Bible, our playbook? On the contrary, homosexuality is described as unnatural, an error, shameful, and grounds for not entering Heaven, along with many other sins.

It is within the Christian’s right to believe the Word of God, and subscribe to the Creator’s authority and plan for humanity – according to the order of male and female relationships, sexual relations, and reproduction.

It is within the Christian’s right not to engage in liberal theological disputes on Bible translations and interpretations purposed to find homosexuality loopholes. This practice is likened to the serpent’s manipulation and reasoning with Eve: “Did God really say don’t eat from every tree? You won’t surely die.”  Did God really mean to avoid homosexuality? Wasn’t that just culture, the times back then, sex with boys, Paul being over-opinionated? You won’t surely die.

It is within the Christian’s right to believe the Spirit of the Word, not just a single scripture, to base his or her beliefs that homosexuality is a sin for which Jesus Christ died, and forgiveness and a new life is available to all who repent and are born again.

Leave Christian Beliefs Out of Christian Businesses

Now, Christians are denied the right to honor these beliefs in their business endeavors. Why? Because those who live an unrepentant gay lifestyle demand so? Because the LGBT community contends that the mere act of holding or expressing these beliefs is an act of homophobia and hate?

Wouldn’t an understanding to “agree to disagree” or “take my business elsewhere” be more human, loving, and Christian-like, than:

“Not only will you stop representing what the Word of God says about homosexuality in your business, your business WILL accommodate and be supportive of our lifestyle – or we’ll make you pay.”

It’s amazing how the two men were seemingly fighting for their right of “Christian” participation, but in the end, chose to do (again) what is frowned upon in scripture – Christians suing each other.  Perhaps the entire 6th chapter of 1 Corinthians is ignored or explained away – as it speaks against homosexuality and lawsuits between Christians. Go figure.

One can only wonder how many gay dating sites have been sued for not accommodating heterosexual single matches. I suspect society as a whole would find that odd.

Who’s Got Next? Pedophiles?

It’s only a matter of time before we’ll truly see where Pandora’s box will lead us. Remember decades ago? We didn’t have debates on what God intended for marriage, or encourage the creation to identify with a gender vs. accept the gender given by the Creator.

Likewise, today we don’t debate whether Christian Mingle violates a pedophile’s civic right to find “love” with children, or have our children “self-identifying” with a certain age vs. their age as determined by date of birth. Thank God.

Be sober and vigilant, Team, as even more perilous times are coming.  Will pedophiles capitalize on the sexual orientation precedents set by the LGBT community? In 20 years, could we have humans demanding the right to legally marry their pets?

So, what’s the play call?

Never compromise. Yes, it’s easy to say Christian Mingle caved when you don’t have millions on the line. But the truth doesn’t change – it is our right not to bow and conform to this world and its standards. It is our honor to remain loyal and contend for the faith in Jesus Christ. God is still able to deliver the Daniels and Hebrew Boys of this present generation.

God, help Your Team to stand.

[Exclusive] Locker Room Chat with JoJo Martin – Part 1

By
Editorial Staff
-

It’s been weeks since his moving rendition of Intercession during the Kirk Franklin tour. Now, Josiah “Jojo” Martin‘s latest single, Run On [listen], is sweeping the airwaves and our hearts. Jojo’s faith and positivity throughout his season with renal disease is unmatched and deeply felt. Despite the challenges of dialysis and patiently waiting for the right kidney donor, Jojo keeps “running on” and inspires us all to do the same. He is one of Coach Jesus’ first string minstrel, encouraging the masses in song and worship.

Our publisher, Kim Brightness, caught up with Jojo for an exclusive “locker room” chat. No fan fare, very intimate – just good conversation about the amazing work of The Jojo Martin Foundation, health, new music, and life as part of Team Jesus! Check out Part 1 of the chat, where Jojo explains what renal disease is and its affects on young, African-American males.

How Can You Help Jojo Martin?

Please show your support for The Jojo Martin Foundation with a tax-deductible donation on their Go Fund Me page.

Are you the kidney donor Jojo’s been waiting for? Contact the Emory Transplant Center at 855-366-7989, Mon-Fri 8am-4pm. For more information, you can e-mail thejojomartinfoundation@gmail.com.

jojo-martin-kidney

 

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

4 Must-Follow Rules for Building a Strong Financial Legacy

By
Christy Mercer Forbes
-
financial planning

Some of the most rewarding experiences of my life happened in college. For example, I learned how to be 100% dependent on myself vs. my parents, how to make a decision on my own and actually live with the consequences, and I embraced building relationships in a new city by creating something that felt like a family for me, considering I was four hours away from home.

But most of all, I was forced to learn how to live on a budget.

Most college students don’t have much money, and are forced to live on little to almost nothing.  Their regular diets include Ramen noodles, pizza or any free food offered to them in order to keep a dollar in their pocket.   While this is the norm for most college students, this mentality quickly changes once life happens.

Upon graduation, you obtain a full-time position in your field, you start making your own money, you get married to the love your life, have beautiful children, and now you have more expenses than you ever imagined were possible.  Oh the joy of being bill free as a college student!  I was fortunate to start my career with a start-up financial planning company after a semester internship.  I was hired upon graduation at age 22, and embarked upon a new journey of preparing for life.

Letter to my 22-year-old Self

First day on the job, I was scheduled to setup my own financial plan with the owner of the firm. This was unexpected, but if I was going to teach others how to manage their finances, I had to be a good student and master every aspect of building my own financial portfolio.  Although I still follow the majority of this plan today, like any other 20-something, I still made some financial mistakes early on that could have been avoided.

Yes, the best time to make any major financial mistake is when you’re in your twenties!

You have time to easily recoup from your setback, as I did, and then vow to never make the same financial planning or investment mistake again.

There are two categories new graduates fall into upon obtaining full-time employment.  First, graduates who continue to live below their means – they live in a modest apartment, possibly with a roommate, and have no car payment, which creates an opportunity to save more.  Second, graduates who change their lifestyle immediately by spending everything earned now that there is a significant increase in income.

If I had to write a letter to my 22-year-old self, it would include these four important rules for building a financial legacy:

Stay on Target with Your Budget

You must have a clear understanding of your personal budget, which details your monthly income and expenses, including debt repayments.  The primary purpose of a budget is to keep track of every dollar spent.  You’ve earned it, so make it a priority to know where you’re spending your money or spending will control you.

After a month or two of following your budget, review all of your expenses to determine if you are spending less or more than expected.  This will allow you to make some minor adjustments and help you identify bad habits that can affect your financial future.  This process is necessary to stay on target and to avoid the mistake of spending more than you have.

I know all too well that sometimes you have a long week at work and feel like you deserve to buy that handbag and shoes from the mall.   You should certainly reward yourself for various accomplishments and milestones, but plan for it by saving for the splurge.  Impulse buying does not demonstrate self-control.  Kill the urge to buy those unplanned items, especially when caused by emotional stress or a feeling of entitlement.

Rule #1:  Do not spend what you do not have.  

Build Credit Wisely and Remain Debt Free

The 2015 American Household Credit Card Debt Study shows that the average household carries approximately $15,762 in credit card debt.  Credit cards can be beneficial when used wisely.  They can also be very detrimental to your financial situation and cause unnecessary stress.

Until you build an emergency savings fund, use a credit card as backup for unexpected expenses, such as a $250-$1000 deductible required by your car insurance company.  Then, be sure to setup a plan to pay off this debt within the next 3-6 months.

For a $2,000 credit limit, your goal is to keep your debt balance below 35% of your available credit.  If you must have a credit card, try to limit its use to travel expenses.  For example, many companies require a credit card to reserve a hotel, flight, or a car rental.  Promptly pay the credit card charges before interest accrues. The goal is to be financially free – no credit card debt.

Rule #2: One major credit card is enough and it is not for everyday use.  Do not abuse it. 

Invest in Yourself Early

The biggest mistake young professionals make is not saving for retirement in their early years of employment.  You have the opportunity to start saving early, and by taking advantage of these years, you will reap financial benefits greater than a 35-year-old who’s saving the same amount in their retirement account.  Your funds will be invested in the market longer than someone who waits to contribute to a plan, which means significant growth potential for you.

Most employers offer some form of retirement plan, such as a 401k or 403b.  To give employees an incentive to participate, a company match is generally available to each participant after contributing the minimum amount required.  For example, let’s say your employer offers to match you dollar-for-dollar on the first 3% contributed.  You will have 3% deducted from your bi-weekly paycheck, and your employer will also place 3% in the account.  This is free money added to your account that will earn interest based on investment allocations offered in the plan.

Please choose your investments wisely, with the understanding that these funds will not be accessed for the next 40 years or more.  This money grows tax-deferred until you make a withdrawal during your retirement years.  If your employer doesn’t offer a match, you can still contribute towards the retirement plan.  In the case where your employer doesn’t offer a plan at all, a ROTH IRA is a great option for regular contributions, if eligible, and you can withdraw these funds at retirement tax free.

Rule #3:  Start saving early, with no excuses.

Follow Your Passion

Initially, my goal was to be a math teacher because I enjoyed math and felt appreciated when teaching someone a topic/concept. After my first semester in college, I decided to major in business finance instead of the teaching profession. After many years of working in my field, I realized that I still have a passion for teaching.

Sometimes your passion may not be reflected in your primary source of income.  If you have been able to incorporate your passion with your career, I certainly commend you on this accomplishment. Unfortunately, many Americans go to work every day doing a job they like or don’t like, but they are not passionate about it.  Since my passion was teaching, for the last few years, I have been a Math tutor for students in secondary, middle and high school; this has not only fulfilled my desire to teach, but I have earned supplemental income as well.  Follow your passion and work towards doing what you love to do.

Rule #4:  Follow your passion to sources of supplemental your income.

 

Building a financial legacy and working to preserve it is my mission in life.  I believe if you take responsibility and follow these 4 rules, it will change your life, your family, and your legacy.  Having read this letter to my 22-year-old self, it is my hope that you will develop the habit of making wise financial decisions, and reap many benefits in the long run.

So, what’s the play call?

Get financial wisdom. For Wisdom is better than all the trappings of wealth; nothing you could wish for holds a candle to her. Proverbs 8:11

You’re Lit, But Can Anyone See Your Light?

By
Brandi Hawthorne
-
light of the world

My husband and I used to joke that one day our cell phones would be able to wash and dry our clothes with the touch of a button. I’m not sure if that feature is available yet, but if I can control my television with my phone, I imagine a laundry app isn’t too far away.

With all the fancy features phones have today, you want to know which feature I have to have?

The flashlight.

The flashlight has been around since 1898, and it’s not going anywhere. Why? Because when we’re searching in dark places, need a better visual, or when the power fails, we all go to our drawers and pull out the trusty flashlight.

We may not pull it out often; it might have a little dust on it, but everybody has one because there will be moments when nothing else can do the job of a flashlight like a flashlight.

Kind of like our Bible.

The first Bible was printed in the 1400s. It’s been around forever and it’s going to stay around until the end of time. Nothing can do the job of God’s Word like God’s Word. It may collect dust on your coffee table, but you know where it is when you need it. Or, better yet, it shines in your heart!

In the same way a flashlight illuminates dark places, the Word of God brightens every path in our lives.

When we can’t see clearly, the Word of God guides us. When life or people fail us, the Word of God restores us. When we’re asleep, it awakens us. And, when we are lost in this dark world, the Word of God is a light house that brings us safely to shore.

Does Your Light Lead Others Home?

Years ago, I found myself lost in Atlanta, GA. One minute I was downtown and the next minute, I wasn’t. Or, as my husband put it, “All the buildings have disappeared.”

Being in an unfamiliar place, at night, was both challenging and uncomfortable. Yet, without a map or GPS to guide me, I did what any person would do who’s desperate to find their way: I simply started to drive towards the lights! Those lights guided me home.

That’s why our lights are so important.  The Bible instructs us:

 “You are the light of the world. You are like a city built on a hill that cannot be hidden.  People don’t hide a lamp under a bowl. They put it on a lampstand. Then the light shines for everyone in the house. In the same way, you should be a light for other people. Live so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

We spend so much time trying to look attractive, we forget to be attractive [Tweet that!]. People followed Jesus from place to place in awe of who He was, and the Light that emanated from His heart. They were fascinated by His stories, His miracles, His presence.

Jesus said that we should do even greater things than He.  Consider this:

While the world becomes more isolated, we are to meet frequently and share our light with each other. (Hebrews 10:25)

When the world rehearses tragedy, we are to shine a light on everything God has already done. (Psalm 78)

When the world condemns, we are to enlighten with encouragement. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

When the world complains during hard times, our faces light up as we celebrate maturity and lessons learned. (James 1:2-4)

When the world agrees with Satan, we are to take any thought that disagrees with the Word of God and toss it! (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Eye-catching, delightful, lovely and desirable… this is how our spirits are to look to this dark world. They should see us from far off and take off running towards the light. When they’ve found themselves lost in the world, can they look at us and see a beautiful light that leads directly to Jesus Christ?

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

Become child-like. Become the light.

Can anyone light up a room quite like a child? Their spirits are so pure. They never need an excuse to play with a flashlight or flicker a light switch on and off.

They love the light.

We must learn to love the light so much so that we become the light. Someone in our workplace, community and family is fighting through dark times and they feel alone.

Meditate on the Word so that it shines through you and they can see their way home.

Declare this: “I am a light shining for the world to see. Nothing can hide me.”

1...939495...97Page 94 of 97

STAY CONNECTED

6,517FansLike
2,584FollowersFollow
2,238FollowersFollow

POPULAR ARTICLES

Free News - Where voices unite, stories flourish, and community thrives through open dialogue and meaningful connections.

Company

Headlines

They Changed Their Minds about Slavery and Left a Bible Record

0
Two businessmen’s unusual conversion in 1700s South Carolina led them to liberate the people they put in bondage. At first glance, William Turpin and his business partner, Thomas Wadsworth, appeared to be like most other prestigious and powerful white men in late 18th-century South Carolina. They were successful Charleston merchants, had business interests across the state, got involved in state politics, and enslaved numerous human beings. Nothing about them seemed out of the ordinary. But, quietly, these two men changed their minds about slavery. They became committed abolitionists and worked to free dozens of enslaved people across South Carolina. When most wealthy, white Carolinians were increasingly committed to slavery and defending it as a Christian institution, Turpin and Wadsworth were compelled by their convictions to break the shackles they had placed on dozens of men and women. In an era when the Bible was edited so that enslaved people wouldn’t get the idea that God cared about their freedom, Turpin left a secret record of emancipation in a copy of the Scriptures, which is now in the South Carolina State Museum. Perhaps it’s not surprising that this story of faith and freedom is mostly unknown. The two men were, after all, working not to attract attention. Neither had deep roots in Charleston or close familial ties to its storied white “planter” dynasties. Turpin’s family was originally from Rhode Island, and Wadsworth was a native of Massachusetts who moved to South Carolina only shortly after the American Revolution. Both had public careers and served in the South Carolina Legislature, but their political profiles were not particularly high. Neither of them appeared to give any of their legislative colleagues the sense that they were developing strong, countercultural opinions on one of the most ...Continue reading...

Trolls Band Together in Theaters November 17th

0
Nothing's Stronger Than Family Harmony About This holiday season, get ready...

Are State Laws the Solution to Kids’ Access to Porn?

0
As data continues to show the harms of viewing porn, particularly for children, support for stricter legal limits on pornographers has grown.

The Burial: A Glimpse Into the Life of William Gary

0
The Burial: Based on a True Events About Inspired by true...

Newsletter

Get important news delivered directly to your inbox and stay connected!

© Newspaper WordPress Theme by TagDiv