You’ve read his devotionals: short, excellent use of word imagery to create that vivid mental picture to easily grasp concepts; messages crafted with a particular lingo and passion to reach our young people. He’s Herbert Bowen, Jr., our beloved Voices Against the Grain devotional writer and “Kingdom Connector.” Herbert was the first member to join our ministry team in 2013. He’s played a significant role in bringing on other ministry team members and ministry partners. What is his favorite food? Favorite bible verse? Learn more about Herbert in the Q & A below.
Where are you from? King of Prussia, PA
How did you come to join the Voices Against the Grain team? I first met Ms. Hayes at the February 2013 “Going Against the Grain” conference in Charlotte, N.C., where we were both speakers, held at the Central Church of God. From there we exchanged information with my intent for connecting for a show idea, but spoke more in depth about writing as Ms. Hayes began creating VATG in May 2013.
What is your favorite childhood memory? Being with my grandmother at church as she shows her immense zeal and fervor for the Lord. It was an experience that was both embarrassing and entertaining all at the same time.
As a Christian, what is your understanding of why God allows trials/temptations to come into our lives? I think my best interpretation would have to be Romans 5:3-5, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. (Romans 5:3-5, New Living Translation)
What do you do in your spare time? In my spare time I run a startup organization called B.T.E.P. (Bringing Together Extraordinary People) where we make sure that no child is mentally defeated before stepping onto the sports field, due to lack of equipment or athletic gear.
What is your favorite bible verse? 1 Timothy 4:14-16, but specifically verse 16- “Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.”(1 Timothy 4:16 New Living Translation)
What does having a relationship/walk with God mean to you? My relationship with God is simple. He loved me first, which in turn taught me how to love, which we didn’t deserve. So all in all, to be undeserving creatures who garnered His love, is fascinating. A trait I try to extend to everyone I meet.
What is your favorite food? Chicken Parmesan
If you had a superpower what would it be? If you have ever seen Justice League, Alien Manhunters powers I would fancy to have for myself. It’s an amalgam of different ones, such as teleportation, phasing, shapeshifting, telepathy, etc…
Is there anything else we should know about you? Not really, only that I believe in reciprocity and unity to create a change that will inspire and move millions if utilized correctly.
Learn more about Herbert Bowen, Jr. here.