Author Archives: vatg4him

08.20.14
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When It Doesn’t Make Sense

Sudden/unexpected death of a loved one. Death of a child. Diagnosed with a serious illness when you’re doing all the right things. Faithfully and promptly going to work each day only to be handed your last paycheck. Missile strikes commercial jet, killing all crew and passengers aboard. Unarmed teen and robbery suspect in Ferguson, Mo., shot six times, fatally by police officer. When it doesn’t make sense.   man with question marks

This week in particular I’ve repeated the words “this doesn’t make sense” when I learned of the sudden passing of a dear friend. A young person, loved by his wife, family, friends and co-workers, his death seems unfair and leaves us wanting to understand the reasoning behind. We’re simply left to deal with the outcome, best handled on our knees in prayer. Prayers amounting in a few words, cries and groans, simply because there are no words. The one-worded question that resurfaces throughout is “Why?”

I’ve learned that such questions cannot be fully answered with an intellectual answer. God exists and operates beyond our human intellect and comprehension (read the Lord’s three-chapter response to Job’s questions in Job 38-41). Trust that nothing God does is random; He has a plan though we may not understand it on this side. What I do know is that God is sovereign—He’s in control of everything. We have to trust God even when life doesn’t make sense.

The following devotional written by brother-in-Christ Minister Dracy Jenkins is right on time. The encouragement offered in his message brought me some solace and I pray it brings you comfort and peace as well.  God bless you and in prayer.   -Nicole

“Anyone can thank God for the light. Jesus teaches us to thank God for the night. He says to us, ‘You’ll get through this!’  And we will.” – Max Lucado

 

Minister Dracy Jenkins, Devotional Writer

Minister Dracy Jenkins, Devotional Writer

1 Corinthians 11:23b-24a- On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread 24- and gave thanks to God for it. (New Living Translation)

For a long time, I focused on the Last Supper as Jesus shared one last meal with His Disciples and encouraged them for the times to come, when He was to leave them and return to Heaven. However, as we have read many times, Jesus’s words often contain much more than we initially hear and realize.

 

To understand the concept that even though Jesus was about to go through a horrendous ordeal at the hands of His enemies, He demonstrated the importance of giving thanks to our Heavenly Father. While we may not fully know what we will face tomorrow, Jesus did.  And regardless, Jesus knew He needed to continue to praise God and thank Him for all that He had.

 

This is a critical lesson I know I must learn and demonstrate.  I believe we all must learn this to truly demonstrate not only our love for Him, but our gratitude and faith in Him.

 

We are all going through something fearful, unpleasant or not what we wanted or expected.  If you are not right now, unfortunately, that time will come.  No matter when that time comes, giving thanks to God, through it all and for it all, is something that we must learn to do and actually do.

 

Jesus did it, I believe not only because it was part of His character, but to continue to teach those that followed Him, what they and subsequently, we, must do.

 

Giving thanks in the midst of our struggles doesn’t necessarily change the situation, but there are those around us watching, whose hearts and thinking may be encouraged and changed by our actions.  We are witnesses of God’s love, power and grace in all that we say and do.

 

Praise God for His light that is illuminating our lives for His glory.

 

Minister Dracy
After God’s Own Heart Ministries
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.

 

 

08.18.14
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Is There Any Question?

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Mark 9:23- “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” (New Living Translation)

 If I can, or if he can, for that is the question. If I can accomplish the impossible, is it through my own strength? If I fear no evil and walk circumspect through this world, is my discernment my own? If I close all business transactions, was my acumen honed through my own intellect? If these questions sound unsure then they bear uncertainty that we are not living this life alone. Therefore, if it is not I, then who aids us within the realms of impossibility? Who is taking our crippling fears and standing us upright? Who has given us the intellect to think, function, and deliberate. If we don’t know, then may we learn of this force or power. May we ask of his name and follow his decrees. For the man who has given us strength, love, and discipline is Jesus. Therefore, may we not question, nor live within doubt. For God has already seen this world and figured it all out. Amen

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.  Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. 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. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

08.13.14
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Do We Lift Up and Encourage or Tear Down and Destroy?

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

My heart sank to hear of actor Robin Williams’s death. This man brought so many of us laughter and joy. It saddens me to know that the happiness he so freely gave was the happiness he in turn so desired. Depression is real and plagues many. The Book of Psalms is filled with desperate pleas for help—and God’s ability to comfort us. We daily look to God to fill our empty spaces—and He does. I know there have been times in my life when I looked to man to fill the void yet man cannot. I began to ask myself how many people are on the brink of giving up.  Many like Williams probably can mask their hurt and pain very well. I know I can.

I remember a time when I was really struggling while on a business trip in Charlotte, N.C. I felt alone, rejected and extremely stressed out. I had to stop by the bank to cash a check. I went through the drive thru and after my transaction was complete the teller sent the money back to me in an envelope. On it she wrote, “It was so nice to see you today Ana. Have a great day.” I almost started to cry because her kind hello was just what I needed at that specific time.  The Lord also sent my fellow writer/friend the next day to take me out to lunch after church.  For me, the fellowship we shared was so uplifting at a very desperate time in my life. I praise God that they were tender to His voice and showed me kindness. How many people do you pass on a daily basis? Do you recognize that some of these people could really be struggling? Maybe a co-worker, boss, bank teller, server, roommate, etc. Are you lifting up and encouraging daily? Or tearing down and destroying? If you are reading this and are struggling yourself I encourage you to hold on dear friend.

God has big plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11), if only you call on His name and surrender all that holds you back from Him, He will show Himself faithful.

Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want 2- He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3- He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4- Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5- Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6- Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” (King James Version)

-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.”

Ana has served on the Missionary Field, and has served in and led praise and worship, web design, children’s ministry and youth ministry.  Ana’s most recent initiative is Georgia Peach Ministry, a non-profit she founded that serves widows and orphans.  Ana is also on the board of the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship. Ana is a private chef and has worked with professional athletes over the past five years. She is also an entrepreneur and is part owner in an interior design business, a chef placement business, and is entering into the food product industry.

08.11.14
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And I Rise

Mark 11:23-I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. (New Living Translation)
Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

If we believe, then we can achieve… Greatness, in its highest form. If we believe, then we can achieve… Powerful testimonies that will stir the hearts of many who could sympathize with that event and/or circumstance. If we believe, then we can achieve… A higher level of faith. For the one who clings onto the belief that his turmoil will change will resemble a Phoenix risen from the ashes. Therefore, each moment we spend depressed is time lost. Time that could’ve been saved, if we sought to hold onto the truth of God’s Word. Patience that could’ve been nurtured if we waited for God’s timing instead of our own. For actions done without faith are as useless as hot air balloon without any hot air. Hence, we will be grounded, rather than floating amongst the clouds. Amen

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.  Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. 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. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

08.09.14
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When It’s More Convenient

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

A few days later Felix came back with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish. Sending for Paul, they listened as he told them about faith in Christ Jesus. As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the coming Day of Judgment, Felix became frightened. “Go away for now,” he replied. “When it is more convenient, I’ll call for you again.” –Acts 24:24-25

Here we have in this passage of scripture the apostle Paul appearing before the Roman governor at the time Felix Antonius. Paul was brought in to trial before this governor in Caesarea to answer charges against him concerning a riot that broke out in Jerusalem. The Jewish high priest and the elders were fed up of this apostle going around spreading what they called the “Nazarene sect.” When it was Paul’s turn to speak, he admitted to being a follower of what he called instead, “the way.” I found it interesting that in verse 22 the Bible says that Felix was “well acquainted with the way” which could possibly and probably mean that he heard the gospel several times before or had a good amount of knowledge concerning it.

About two weeks ago I was evangelizing with a group of missionaries in Petite Rivière de l’Artibonite, Haiti. Several people I spoke to seemed very interested in the gospel message I presented to them but all except one stated “I’m not yet ready to accept Jesus Christ as my Savior.” I heard replies such as “I don’t have the time,” or “I have to get things right in my life first.” Another said “I would accept him but I don’t want to yet because I would feel like you persuaded me into it and it wasn’t my own choice. But someday I will.”

King Agrippa also felt this way when Paul later presented the gospel before him and Festus. For in chapter 26 of Acts he said “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable. The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”– Acts 26:25-28

Salvation

In matters of sharing the gospel, persuasion should not have the determining factor of whether one comes to accept Jesus Christ or not. The question that is most important is a question that every unbeliever should look deep into their heart when presented with the gospel and ask themselves, “Is this the truth or not?” Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me.”-John 14:6 Accepting the gospel is always “convenient.” Tomorrow is not promised and the day to be saved is always now. For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” -2 Corinthians 6:2

On January 12, 2010, a major earthquake with a 7.0 magnitude struck the country of Haiti. Over 160,000 people died that day. It was a regular day just like today. We’re not sure how many died as unbelievers. Friend I urge you today to delay no further if you haven’t accepted Christ. Don’t make the mistake governor Felix did of waiting for a more “convenient” time. There might never be another time except today.

-Jason

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.

08.06.14
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Unmerited: God’s Grace

Philemon 1:25- May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. (New Living Translation)

 Grace- a manifestation of favor, especially by a superior.
 Mercy- compassion shown toward an offender.

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

These two words are the life jacket that saved us from the roaring seas. These two words were bred in elegance and brought to view through an honorable death. These two words allowed Jesus’ life-giving blood to flow. For it didn’t stain the ground, but mixed with it, which caused the skies to thunder and the ground to shake, because even the Earth knew that this was the Son of God. Thus, we were all destined to fail, BUT GOD intervened to save us from the clutches of darkness to lead us into the light. By this act, we know grace, mercy, and love, which illustrates how our lives (bought at a price) must act accordingly to being good stewards of the faith. However, may we always keep in mind that we are imperfect and might stumble along the way, hence the beauty of God’s grace that bears no expiration date. Amen

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.  Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. 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. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

08.04.14
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Let It Flow

Ecclesiastes 11:1- Send your grain across the seas, and in time, profits will flow back to you. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Listen up, for a new phase is coming your way, and it is simply to just “let it flow.” Hence, “let it flow” is a phrase that moves with seamless precision. “Let it flow” is a phrase that when hypothetically touched mimics the soft, velvety characteristics of silk that glides across our skin. “Let it flow” is a phrase that describes the joy and peace we can partake in if we follow the Lord’s instructions. Therefore, may we couple this phrase with Galatians 5:22, “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.” Hence, our spirits begin to digest these fruits, which provide us with the vitamins to enjoy a well-built soul. However, this never occurs overnight, but is a long and enduring process that requires PATIENCE. For if we allow the Lord to work within our lives, IN TIME, we shall receive our blessings. Amen

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.  Herbert is the youngest board member on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Council, where he serves to lessen the costs of tuition for African American students. 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. He provides business expertise to help others start their businesses.

08.01.14
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Christ is More Than Enough

Contentment is not by addition but by subtraction: seeking to add a thing will not bring contentment. Instead, subtracting from your desires until you are satisfied only with Christ brings contentment. —Jeremiah Burroughs 

If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment.- Job 36:11 (New Living Translation)

Minister Dracy Jenkins, Devotional Writer

Minister Dracy Jenkins, Devotional Writer

Isn’t it interesting that all the things we pursue in life don’t seem to totally satisfy us as when we fully seek the Lord’s Will for our lives? We can fill our homes, garages, and lives with a lot of stuff. We can work our days and nights away to increase our bank accounts. However, we usually find ourselves, looking to get the newest or latest things or the bank account just doesn’t seem to have that right amount that will make us feel secure.

We can work daily to physically and mentally make ourselves stronger and better, only to have that doctor’s report steal our comfort, peace and joy.

Having material things, wealth and knowledge aren’t bad pursuits. The problem is when we believe achieving those things will fill the void in our souls that only Christ can.

Only in Christ will life have true meaning. Only in Christ will we have peace and contentment. Only in Christ will our lives have purpose.

We can continue to live life our way or we can surrender and enjoy life, God’s way.

Thank you Heavenly Father that your way for us is the best way. Help us to see this every day and be content in knowing that your plans for us and what you provide for us is exactly what we need. So we praise you and thank you for right now. For in this moment, we are right where you want us and planned for us.  In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

Minister Dracy

After God’s Own Heart Ministries

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.

 

07.31.14
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Normalcy Bias or Great Expectation? Your View

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Rose-colored glasses. All is well with the world. ARE YOU KIDDING? Even some of the most skeptical realize something is amiss. As former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright bluntly stated, “The world is a mess.” So do you approach life with a normalcy bias or with a great expectation?

THE NORMALCY BIAS 

According to Wikipedia, “the normalcy bias, or normality bias, refers to a mental state people enter when facing a disaster. It causes people to underestimate both the possibility of a disaster occurring and its possible effects. This may result in situations where people fail to adequately prepare for a disaster.” 

In short, you will consider our times to be normal and not strange. And for that reason, when time is up you’ll be caught flat-footed, without a life preserver, and without hope. Like the frog sitting comfortably in a slow-boiling pot, you’ll be finished. Done. normal

Today, we are in the 11th hour. What’s the 11th hour? It means “time’s almost up.” “Gather everyone before the doors close.” “Last call.” Read Matthew 24 in its entirety. In short, Jesus fortells the signs of the end of this age. Matthew 24:3-8 reads: 

3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us,when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.

And verse 29: “The stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.”  

Zephaniah 1:14-15, 18 further warns:  “The great day of the Lord is near–near and coming quickly. Listen! The cry on the day of the Lord will be bitter… That day will be a day of wrath, a day of distress and anguish… In the fire of his jealousy the whole world will be consumed, for he will make a sudden end of all who live in the earth.”

ready or notAt that point:

  • God’s wrath will not be to discipline those who denied Him
  • It’s not the unbeliever’s chance to invite His Son Jesus Christ into their life
  • This is not God’s opportunity to improve a person or lead them to holiness
  • Time has passed; He will no longer strive with man

A GREAT EXPECTATION…As the Sky is Falling

For the Believer whose hope, joy, life, peace and eternity rests in Jesus Christ:

  • We have nothing to fear about the coming events
  • God’s people will be in the midst of the battle and judgment, but He will equip us
  • As the “sky is falling” He has given us His Spirit of peace
  • We must continue to plant seeds, leave the Holy Spirit to harvest those last few souls
  • We will be sorrowed by the tragic times, yet will have a great expectation and joy!
  • We know these strange times indicate the expected and soon return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Those in Christ Jesus have assurance in these critical times, for He said in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  (New International Version)

Have no delusions but clarity about what is coming down the pike. It’s your choice and your chance. Tomorrow will not be the same “normalcy” as today. Time is drawing near. If you don’t have the answers to get out of your mess or can’t rescue your own future, Jesus is the answer. Express that you need Him, acknowledge that He died and rose again for you so that you will have victory, and ask Him to fill you with His Holy Spirit to serve as your guide along the way.

God bless you,

Nicole

Nicole D. Hayes is the founder of Voices Against the Grain, a bold teaching ministry launched in May 2013. Nicole’s purpose in creating Voices Against the Grain is to be light in darkness, to boldly instruct truth amid confusion so as to bring clarity and restoration.

Learn more about Nicole D. Hayes here.

07.30.14
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Position Yourself in Faith, Not Fear

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

I come to you today in a very humble state.  While out to dinner celebrating my brother-in-law’s birthday, I was side-swiped. A stranger to me, yet friend of my brother-in-law, spoke a sobering truth directed at yours truly.  Their words came completely out of left field and I was caught off guard. However, the truth that was spoken shook me up and resonated deep within.

I have come to a place where I have disconnected myself in order to protect myself. It is far easier for me to keep everyone at bay rather than allow people in.  I work so hard to keep bad things from happening that I also keep the good things out. It’s not me walking on the water or walking by faith trusting in God’s Sovereign hands. It’s me believing the lie that “if I do everything right and play it safe everything will be okay.”

My past is my past and I cannot change it. However, today is a new day and I want to live by faith. To live boldly for Christ without holding back all the good I have inside and not only offering up the portion I see fit. If you have been hurt, rejected or disappointed do not let that stop you from living to your fullest God-given potential.  What I want to pour into you today is love.  We are all hoping and believing for something.  Keep hoping, keep believing and don’t give up.  The Victory is ours and the battle is the Lord’s. Position yourself to receive by letting go of fear. You may think I personally do not struggle with fear…but the truth is, many of us do. Yours could be fear of what people might think, fear of success, fear of failure, fear of disappointment, fear of not financially having enough, fear of speaking truth, fear of letting go, fear of holding on.  Fear daily tries to grip each one of us differently. While you begin to step out in faith believing, I encourage you to fear not. God is in control!

Isaiah 43:19- Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

-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.”

Ana has served on the Missionary Field, and has served in and led praise and worship, web design, children’s ministry and youth ministry.  Ana’s most recent initiative is Georgia Peach Ministry, a non-profit she founded that serves widows and orphans.  Ana is also on the board of the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship. Ana is a private chef and has worked with professional athletes over the past five years. She is also an entrepreneur and is part owner in an interior design business, a chef placement business, and is entering into the food product industry.