Author Archives: vatg4him

06.16.14
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Wait Patiently and Confidently

Romans 8:25-But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

If we “wait patiently and confidently”… two words that bear righteous fruit in the eyes of the Lord. If we are impatient and doubtful… Well, we have put our trust not in the Lord, but in the circumstances this world lays before us. Therefore, may our actions be rash and indecisive. May our countenance reflect the image of a person stranded on the side of the road with no car or phone. May God look down upon us and see an organic machine calibrated to rely on their own strength. For God has moved into the shadows to observe his creation. Fortunately, for us these statements are false. Why? Because God is AAA/Triple A when we need a tow. Why? Because God is the 5 hr energy needed to complete our day. Why? Because God is the author and finisher of our faith. Thus, when our minds are saturated in the marinade of doubt, let us look toward the SON and soak in the heavenly rays. 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.

06.13.14
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Intimacy With the Father

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

“O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy. I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.” –Psalm 63:1-8

What an admirable and authentic intimate relationship we see in this passage of scripture between David and the father. At a time when it would have been understandable if David felt confused, alienated, afraid or hopeless, he decided that he would put his trust in God and give him praises. David had been crowned King of Israel and yet he had not yet taken the throne or began to rule. Instead he was sojourning from cave to cave and wilderness to wilderness running away from King Saul and other enemies. However, like a child who finds security in his parents, David consistently remembered the faithfulness of God. “The Lord will work out his plans for my life-for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for you made me.”–Psalm 138:8

Friend, an intimate loving relationship with the Lord is of a different quality than that which we experience with people. Often times in our relationships with people we don’t go beyond the touch and feeling and are satisfied with what is presented on the surface. But the very reason we were created was for us to come into an intimate relationship with God. And the only way in which we can truly come to know him is if we transcend the physical into the spiritual. “For God is spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” –John 4:24 And we have the capacity to come to know him and worship in the spirit because we were made in his image. For the Bible says, “Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us.” –Genesis 1:26

Friend, like David knew, God is personally INTERESTED IN YOU. Yes you! He wants you to enter into a loving spiritual intimate relationship with him that is beyond what you can see, touch, and feel. One that is open and transparent. A relationship that is loving, trusting, honest, and free. If you trusted in Jesus Christ as your personal savior, you don’t have to worry about judgment and him condemning you for what you have to share with him. This relationship is different than that you experience with people.

When you pray, EXPECT God to respond back to you. An intimate relationship with God requires real TIME and EFFORT. It’s a two-way street of prayer and listening. Hurriedness, pride, and rebellion will undoubtedly block us from the benefits of understanding, stability, security, and serenity we can experience in an intimate relationship with God.  Friend, I have named a few of benefits of intimacy with God. There is so much more. Spend time with him today. When we express love to God, we are giving ourselves to him totally and completely for his purpose to bring him joy. “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guards your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”-Philippians 4:7 Amen. God bless you.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. 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 nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

06.09.14
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Your Heart: Can You Find It?

Matthew 6:21-Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

If my heart was buried 10,000 leagues under the sea, could a diver find it? If my heart was covered by the multiple layers of an avalanche, could the snow patrol find it? If my heart became shipwrecked on a desert island, only to be washed over by the tide, could excavators find it? For if they cannot locate the origin of my heart’s whereabouts, so shall it be lost forever.

 

Hence, where is your heart? Is it lost beneath the rubble this world seeks to heap on your body? Is it too unbearable to deal with the cravings of your inhibitions? Is the glint and glimmer of the watch, car, or diamonds robbing your sensibility? Thus, may we look to store our treasure within a place that is eternal, to which no man/woman could steal from nor could rust or deterioration destroy. For if my treasures are stored within heaven, then my eyes are focused on HIM and there the desires of my heart shall be. 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.

06.07.14
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Winfrey and Angelou: Exchanging Truth for a Lie

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

A poet who might not have known it: there is only ONE way to God.  Unrealistic? Implausible? Yet true.

Today, like many people, I viewed the cable-televised memorial service held for the late author, poet, orator and multi-talented, Dr. Maya Angelou. Her nearly three-hour service held at Wake Forest University’s Wait Chapel, aired in part on CNN and uninterrupted on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). Interesting speeches were given, and songs sung. Following the service, OWN aired a Super Soul Sunday “Soul to Soul” interview Oprah had previously with Dr. Angelou. While I admire the writings and exquisite delivery of words whether written or spoken by Dr. Angelou, it was in this interview clip where a heaviness weighed in my gut. The heaviness drove the writing for today’s necessary late-day posting. This post is not to disparage Dr. Angelou or her memory, but to dispel a deception widely accepted and believed, and leading many astray.

During the interview, Oprah asked intently of her longtime mentor and “mother,” “Dr. Angelou, what is your definition of God?” Dr. Angelou replied, “All.” She said, “God is ‘all’ in one word.” (Actually, He’s the Great I AM).  Then Oprah asked, “Is there many ways to get to him?” Dr. Angelou said, “Yes, all roads lead to God.” Oprah then followed up with more conversation that lead her to say,”There’s not just one gate. There are as many gates to God as there are people.”

At Voices Against the Grain, our mission and objective is to provide clarity where there is confusion; to dispel deception by presenting truth, and to instruct truth in love. We would not be thorough in our ministry/service to you by not presenting God’s truth on the topic. The author and perfecter of our faith said it many times, many ways while some have chosen to twist it to appease those intent on finding any other way there but through Christ Jesus. Here it is again for everyone’s review:

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6)

“Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.” (1 John 2:23)

Given the gravitas and high regard earned by Dr. Angelou, it’s no surprise how one could support her perspective. We live in a big and diversified world.  Yes—God can meet us in different places. Yet, God’s Word tells us how we get to Him.

God is not a joke or a play thing.  He is GOD Almighty. In a world that would rather exchange the truth of God for a lie, I pray that He lovingly and mercifully remove the veil from blinded eyes and move hearts to draw near to Him. Only in relationship with Christ Jesus will truth be revealed and clarity restored.

“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” (Colossians 2:8, New Living Translation)

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” (1 Corinthians 1:18-19)

 

 

06.05.14
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Day and Night

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:6-9 (New Living Translation)

This passage of scripture reminds us of a time in the past where the nation of Israel should have been afraid. For their leader, a godly man named Moses, just passed away. Now who would lead the people into the Promised Land? The Lord gave that special charge to Joshua and God assured Joshua that just as he was with Moses so he would be with him. –Joshua 1:2-5. Yet, this was a conditional promise. For Joshua had to study the book of instruction, meditate on it day and night, and obey what was written in it. Only then would he and the Israelites prosper and succeed in everything they did. At that time, their book of instruction is what our Bible is today.  Although, the Bible was written thousands of years ago, its content is still applicable to us today and was written for us.

“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” –2 Timothy 3:16-17. The Word of God (Bible) teaches us His will and purpose for our lives. It is the very mind of God on paper that was imparted to us and for our benefit. He speaks to us through it. Not only can the word give us direction but it also encourages us and gives us courage to face a world and its many contradictory belief systems on how to truly live a successful godly life. The psalmist knew this very well when he said, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”-Psalm 119:105

Truth is, although it may look like many people have the appearance of success and seem to get along without reading and absorbing the Bible, whatever one acquires outside of God’s will eventually turns to ashes. “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.”-James 1:22. If you are reading this today and forget everything tomorrow, remember this, OBEDIENCE ALWAYS BRINGS BLESSINGS.

Friend, I encourage you today to stay in the Word of God each day and each night. But don’t do it because God commanded it although we should. Do it because he loves you and you love him. For Jesus said “if you love me, obey my commandments”-John 14:15. God wants the BEST for you friend and he wants to show you all that he has for you. Yes! He is faithful and will keep his promises. I am a witness. Just as he was with those who came before us so he will be with us. Indeed, “No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced.” –Psalm 25:3

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. 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 nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

06.02.14
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Don’t Exchange a Forever God for Fleeting Fame

Job 8:13-The same happens to all who forget God. The hopes of the godless evaporate. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

When we began we had nothing. When we began we marinated ourselves in hope. A hope that gave way to an attainable dream we deemed to hard to grasp. When the dream fell into our possession we held onto it tightly. We thanked God for the success, but our grip grew stronger. In fact, we placed indents in the dream, due to the fear of it slipping through our fingers. Our God who we praised was now a shadow amongst the limelights. Our friends who believed in us when we had nothing, were now spectators placed on the sidelines. Where did the time go? When did our commitment to truth and humility take a backseat to overall gain? For the transitory life of glitz and glamour lasts only but a while, but the endeavors of the godly last forever. Thus, if we have forgotten this creed, here is our wake up call because “only what we do for CHRIST SHALL LAST.” (Thanks Grandma) 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.

05.31.14
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When God Is In Our Midst, We Become One

1 John 1:4 We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy. (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

We write. We talk. We laugh. We cry. We congregate. We disperse. We live. We die. We learn. We forget. We discern. We sympathize. We breathe. We… A powerful collection of verbs that require others, not just ourselves, to make an impact within our respective communities. “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them” (Matt 18:20).

Hence, when God is in the midst of our endeavors we flourish. When God is in the midst of our outreach we touch one more person. When God is in the midst of our relationships the roots grow deep within the bonds of eternity, instead of chaff that blows in the wind. Ultimately, we become stronger. We become wiser, but most importantly we become one. Amen

 

(Listen to the Voices Against the Grain radio show where we celebrate our 1st yr anniversary)

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.
05.30.14
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Are You Available? F.A.T.?

And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” –Isaiah 6:8 (English Standard Version)

 

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

I once had a compelling conversation with a deacon at my church about a year ago about the state of the Christian church today and its Christians. He said, “God is looking for F.A.T. Christians, ones who are faithful, available, and teachable.”  He was expressing his frustration in the increasing lethargic attitude of getting and staying involved in ministries our church cohort was presently experiencing and the unwillingness to evangelize to the outside world. But which characteristic should come first in being a F.A.T. Christian? Let me suggest that a spirit of availability should. For being available for the Lord will then lead to being teachable, which will ultimately lead to being faithful to the Kingdom of God and his purposes because you now know the truth. Have we overtime become complacent and forgotten the great commission given to us by the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? The truth is, the gospel was never meant for us to keep for ourselves. Getting saved was just the beginning and we ought not sit down after that doing nothing. The gospel was meant to be shared with others once we received that unearned, undeserving, and all-loving gift.

“And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” –Mark 16:15-16. One might say who am I? I have no special training, taken no theological courses, I’m no deacon and I’m no pastor! Well friend, while you might not have taken any courses nor are you a Deacon or a Pastor, you do have a powerful testimony of where God has brought YOU from into the gift of salvation. Your testimony is vast and full of godly gems in it’s content. The gospel is a simple message and it starts with YOUR life!

For you were lost, but now you are found. You didn’t believe but now you do. Somebody introduced you to the gospel and somebody out there still needs to hear it. All it starts with is your life story and what Jesus Christ has done for you through his saving work on the cross. Don’t be afraid of what you will say.

You have a helper in the Holy Spirit. For the Bible says, “But when the father sends the advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”–John 14:26. The question is, are you available? Friend, let us embrace the spirit Isaiah the prophet had when the Lord called for someone to speak on his behalf to the people of Israel. A spirit of willing availability. Here I am! Send me. I tell you friend, once you start opening your heart to be used by the Lord, he will give you all the confidence you need to get the task done. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Be blessed.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. 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 nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

05.29.14
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Work Cheerfully

Colossians 3:23

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”  (New International Version)

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

I went to the grocery store to prepare for my busy day at work (I am a chef).  This particular day my work load was heavy so I was not necessarily looking forward to it with enthusiasm.  As I proceeded through the check out, the young gentleman who bagged my groceries asked if I would care for ice to keep the fish and meat I had purchased cold.  I said that would be great as long as it was not too much of a hassle. He replied, “Not at all.” So I followed him over to the cooler, thanked him for his kindness and he looked over at me cheerfully and said, “You’re welcome! This is what I do!”

In that moment Colossians 3:23 came to heart.  He went above and beyond his call of duty that day. As a chef, the majority of my days are spent at the grocery store or market place. In more than six years, this was the first time I recall being asked if I would like ice.  How delightful and inspiring it was to see this man take pride in his work.  No matter what you do or who you work for I encourage you to work cheerfully with all your heart as unto the Lord.

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!

-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.

05.28.14
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1 Year Later: Blessings, Joy, Service Continues

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Today, May 28, 2014, is the one-year anniversary of Voices Against the Grain media ministry. The blog launched on May 28, 2013, followed by the radio show’s first episode that aired on September 4, 2013.  In March 2013, the Holy Spirit prompted me to launch this bold platform where we are “advancing God’s Kingdom in a ‘do your own thing’ society.” A platform that allows God’s people to share the messages He has placed on their hearts to equip others in Christ and free those enslaved by the deceptions and bondage of this world. To bring clarity amidst confusion. To bring truth where there is deception. To bring healing where there is brokenness.

Within this past year, God has blessed us to be connected with more Kingdom-minded people, including our devotional writers, show guests, supporters and others. He has given us favor in areas and territories unexpected. He has allowed us to touch lives in ways I had not conceived. It is a joy to serve with the Lord and His people, as we equip and empower others to stand as Christ’s light and truth in a fallen world.

The blessings continue to come, as witnessed in the following post below. Our devotional writer Ana Martinez, through the almighty power of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, was freed this year from 22 years of shame, self-hatred and brokenness brought on by sexual abuse and rape that occurred in her youth. Voices Against the Grain served as part of that healing when Ana bravely and authentically shared her testimony during our February 12, 2014 episode. After the show, many people contacted her and us to thank her for inspiring them to seek their healing. Today, she continues to share her testimony to help free others and remind them how the Lord will restore what was stolen from us. He will break the chains that enslave us.

I invite you to read her post, “Loss of Innocence, A Future Restored” published on the blog of pureHOPE, a ministry that envisions a world free of sexual exploitation and brokenness by providing Christian solutions in a sexualized culture. pureHOPE and Voices Against the Grain became partners in January 2014, with a passion to combat porn and other forms of sexual exploitation. During the February 12, 2014 radio show, we were grateful to be joined by pureHOPE president Noel Bouché. We thank pureHOPE for publishing Ana’s story.

We also invite you to listen to today’s radio show as our team reflects on the past year in “Still Punchin’: Voices Against the Grain 1-Year Anniversary.”

We have more work to do, but stay encouraged and stay staunch. Keep moving. We have the victory through Christ! We are excited to continue serving with you. Thank you for your support and prayers.

God Bless You,

Nicole