Monthly Archives: April 2015

04.14.15
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No Belief

While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” When Jesus had said these things, he departed and hid himself from them. Though he had done so many signs before them, they still did not believe in him– John 12:36-37 (English Standard Version)

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

In the preceding verses, here we find Jesus explaining to the crowds and his disciples why he must die. Die? Yes, this was the one that many saw perform miracles in healing the sick, driving out evil spirits from tormented souls, and even raising the dead! But Jesus knew their hearts. He knew people viewed him merely as a miracle worker but didn’t believe on him as Savior of their souls.

That sounds like some of us today. Oh, we know God as the one who blesses and works miracles for us but do we know him as Savior? When we get on our knees to pray, are we merely asking him for more and more material things and neglecting to thank for him for the salvation of our souls? Do we truly believe in our hearts? The fact of the reality is a lot of us believe in Jesus Christ, the God-man, for what he CAN do for us but NOT for what he DID do for us which is die on the cross for our sins and rose on the third day defeating the power of death and offering to us eternal life for those who believe in him.

We would be wise to mirror the faith of the father who brought his son to Jesus to be healed from an evil spirit. The Bible says this man said, “But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”-Mark 9:22-24 This attitude the man demonstrated is one of trust and confidence in Jesus even for his faith!

Ephesians 2-8, 9For By Grace You have been Saved through faith

For faith is not something that we can obtain on our own but it is a gift from God. For the Bible says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.         –Ephesians 2:8-9

Yet, it concerns my soul for those who believe but refuse to admit it publicly for fear of rejection or ridicule from people. Oh they would be more concerned about God’s eternal acceptance than the temporary approval of their peers.

May they remember Jesus Christ’s truthful warning: “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.” –Matthew 10:32-33 For a time is coming and indeed it is here now where many people will be deceived more and more by the evil one Satan. Hearts will be hardened and more people will not believe. Friend, I pray with all the love in my heart that you believe in Jesus Christ for the salvation of your soul.

For the Bible says, “The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” –2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 Amen

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born in November of 1989 in Brooklyn, N.Y. His family later moved to Philadelphia, Pa., and he now resides in Limerick, Pa. In May of 2014, Jason obtained his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Professionally, Jason counsels persons who are homeless, parents, veterans, and others who suffer from various kinds of abuse. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the Great Commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the Gospel to be spread from person-to-person and nation-to-nation. Annually, Jason travels primarily to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year, Haiti Christianity, Inc., visits cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothing, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly, evangelization takes place. Jason is currently the organization’s public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively. To learn more about the organization for which Jason volunteers, please visit www.HaitiChristianity.org.

04.13.15
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Never Have I Ever

Psalm 33:15- He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Today we will play a game of “have you ever.” This is a serious game as its intent is to expose the inner sanctum of our hearts. For to expose is to reveal to the world that we are hurting. For when we open up a portal to our lives for all the world to see, we can be met with indifference. We can be met with harsh language, anger or vindictiveness. We can be met with a flower only to realize the thorn pricked our skin. We now see the very essence, which kept us alive spilling onto the ground, as we made a choice to open the gateway to both good and evil. Is it now time to shut the blinds? Should we resemble a recluse who yearns for no outside contact? Why would we want to proceed on this journey? The answer: only by the grace of God, Who sends us encouragement through others walking along a similar path. Hence, have you ever felt vulnerable? The answer should be “yes,” so you too can experience true joy.

#Godsway

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C. Moreover, Herbert serves on the pureHOPE advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture. Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management.

 

 

04.12.15
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Holding the Keys, But Still Shackled

shackled-feetAm I saved? Am I free? Despite Jesus’s victory obtained for us on the cross, some Christians have forgotten their right-standing in Christ Jesus, their God-given authority and that Christ has defeated Satan. They are still shackled by the enemy’s lies. Nicole D. Hayes, our ministry founder, provides four tips in this Gospel Today article on how you can encourage others to walk in their God-given authority against the enemy! Read “Holding the Keys, But Still Shackled.”

04.08.15
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I WILL…

Isaiah 46:4- 
Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. (New Living Translation)

I WILL do nothing until the Lord directs me otherwise. I WILL walk within the sunshine and the midnight glow to reflect on each day that began and ended. I WILL put my trust in Him. Therefore, I WILL is not my declaration, but God’s. I WILL is a call to lay down our artillery to reach an armistice. I WILL is a statement that has proven itself, unrelenting. Thus, we must allow I WILL to be the mantra that saves us, the phrase that keeps us, and the battle cry that frightens our enemies. We were made for more and since we already “have patiently suffered for God without quitting”  I WILL takes a new direction. One of which encapsulates our souls to share in each other’s burdens so WE WILL be able to continue along our journey (Revelation 2:3).

 

#Godsway

 

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

 

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C. Moreover, Herbert serves on the pureHOPE advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture. Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management.
04.06.15
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Sewn Together By Works of Purpose

1 Corinthians 3:8 
The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Regardless of what you think, it takes a team to get a job done. No one can rely on themselves to wade through every struggle, or push past every defeat. Work is the amalgam of different threads woven together to create an awe-inspiring tapestry. This tapestry is one-of-a-kind, as it depicts the unique characteristics of those chosen through the vibrant and intricate patterns of its design. These designs, however, were not constructed by human hands, but were divinely intertwined by God, who knew the talents and capabilities of each thread that would make His masterpiece. Thus, we all have a purpose. We all have imbued traits that were solely made for us individually. We are Our Father’s children. Therefore, let us “be encouraged and woven together by strong ties of love” because God put us together for a reason (Colossians 2:2).

(#Godsway)

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C. Moreover, Herbert serves on the pureHOPE advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture. Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management.
04.03.15
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What They Cannot Kill

“So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”                                                 – Matthew 10:26-28 (English Standard Version)

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”     –Matthew 5:4 May the eternal grace, peace, and love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with the families of the 147 victims killed in a terrorist attack at Kenya’s Garissa University. Most of the victims, if not all, identified with being a Christian. God bless the souls of those university students who courageously made a conscious choice in the face of danger not to deny believing in the name of Jesus Christ.

They did not fear the terrorists with guns who could kill the body because their assurance rested in the One who already saved their souls. Maybe the words of their Savior flashed through their minds in the face of persecution and danger. For the Bible says, “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.” –Matthew 10:32-33

I pray that we ready our hearts for the persecution that will inevitably come to Christians in the United States. In some cases, it is already here! Will we be bold in the face of danger, ridicule, and rejection, standing our ground in our belief in Jesus Christ? Or will we give in for the sake of our lives here on this fallen, dying and decaying earth? “For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” –Matthew 16:25

Matthew-10-32 whosoever shall confess me before men

Christians be encouraged! I know it seems grim when we look around and see the spiritual and moral decay rapidly increasing. The more sin becomes acceptable and overlooked, the more Christians will be hated.

Oh they could kill the body but never the soul! Be encouraged! For Christ said, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. Whoever hates me hates my Father also. If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.’ –John 15:18-25 Amen

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born in November of 1989 in Brooklyn, N.Y. His family later moved to Philadelphia, Pa., and he now resides in Limerick, Pa. In May of 2014, Jason obtained his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Professionally, Jason counsels persons who are homeless, parents, veterans, and others who suffer from various kinds of abuse. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the Great Commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the Gospel to be spread from person-to-person and nation-to-nation. Annually, Jason travels primarily to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year, Haiti Christianity, Inc., visits cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothing, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly, evangelization takes place. Jason is currently the organization’s public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively. To learn more about the organization for which Jason volunteers, please visit www.HaitiChristianity.org.

04.02.15
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Wise Insight from a Seven-Year-Old

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

While driving my 7-year-old son to his little league baseball game we were talking about Palm Sunday. He began telling me that on that day as the people were greeting Jesus riding on the donkey entering Jerusalem and shouting, “Hosanna!,” many in the crowd that were shouting “Hosanna” did not believe Jesus was the Son of God. They were pretending. How profound was my son’s statement.

It got me thinking about how many of us at times in our lives have declared the name of Jesus Christ—yet we doubt how powerful He truly is? How many of us have proclaimed the name of Jesus but behind closed doors it was a different story? My son commented that in their hearts, they did not believe. What resides in our hearts matters the most. This little 7-year-old came to the conclusion that it is a matter of the heart! So I ask you today: Where does your heart stand? If you are struggling in your faith, I encourage you to reflect on who Jesus is as Easter Sunday approaches.

Little boy praying
John 12:13 New International Version
They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!”

Matthew 18:3 New International Version
And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of
heaven.”

-Ana

About Ana Martinez

Ana Martinez was born in Michigan. When she was age 4, her parents Pastor Juan and Deborah Martinez founded the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship in Almont, Mich.  Ana grew up in the church and in a humble, loving Christian home.  Her parent’s faithfulness and commitment to ministry for over 27 years has been a testimony to her.  In her youth she was like the prodigal son.  She knows what it means to walk away from your call and to stray from the Word of God.  Her life experiences have taught her that God’s way and His principles are worth upholding.  She is a God-fearing Christian woman determined to do the will of The Lord.  Her heart’s desire is to reach the lost and win souls for the kingdom of heaven by sharing the Good News, according to Matthew 28:19. Ana truly believes people are hurting and need to know that there is forgiveness through Jesus Christ.  Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give ye rest.”

04.01.15
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Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!

Colossians 1:11-12- We pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so you will have the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Take a look at the snapshot presented before us. A concise and  precise view into the attributes and actions that will align us with our Lord. First up: endurance, which is the ability to continue or last, despite fatigue, or adverse conditions. Second: patience, which is the steady perseverance to continue when confronted with delay. Two words, one outcome provided by the God Who is, Who gives us strength to stay the course. Thus, when we remain within these principles we locate a well of joy previously untapped. This well becomes our life source as it contains the Living Water needed to carry out our day. This well has provided us many blessings, which we must be prepared to share with others.
(#Godsway)

 

About Herbert G. Bowen, Jr.

Born in King of Prussia, Pa., Herbert G. Bowen Jr., accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the tender age of 5. An active member of the Central Church of God in Charlotte, N.C. where he resides, Herbert serves as a youth/discussion group leader, where he has preached and taught Sunday school, as well  as Wednesday night service. In addition, he has preached at Second Baptist Church in Pottstown, Pa., Destiny City Church in Salisbury, N.C. Moreover, Herbert serves on the pureHOPE advisory board, where his commitment to “wait until marriage” fits perfectly with PureHope’s mission to bring a Christian solution to an immoral culture. Finally, Herbert through the will of God writes weekly devotionals to combat the decreasing morality in the 18-30 age group a.k.a., “the transition gap.” This is an effort to re-introduce Jesus Christ to this spiritually starved generation. His devotionals go out to 2,000+ people and continues to grow under the Lord’s watchful eye.  He is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Business Management.