Tag Archives: Herbert G. Bowen Jr

03.24.14
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In Their Misdeeds, Reaffirm Your Love

2 Corinthians 2:7-8, “Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. Otherwise he may be overcome by discouragement. 8- So I urge you now to reaffirm your love for him.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Like Paul, we must choose to walk away rather than confront. Like Paul, we must think about the minds of our audience, rather than impede the consciousness of their spirits. Like Paul, we must watch by the sidelines, rather than join the chaos. For when a person decides to follow their own worldly habits, only God can work on their hearts. Therefore, may we seek to comfort when we find someone brokenhearted. Moreover, may we seek to forgive when a person’s misdeeds lay themselves upon our doorsteps. For no matter the disappointment that a person has caused you, stand with the strength of Samson, which will keep you from folding underneath their careless attitudes. For “he comforts all our troubles so that we can comfort others” (2 Corinthians 1:4). So be of good faith and cheer because like Paul, you too will be redeemed in the end. When the going gets tough, reaffirm your love for them (Don’t give up on anyone). 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

03.17.14
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What Is Your Legacy?

Ecclesiastes 2:22- “So what do people get in life for all their hard work and anxiety?” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

For hard work is the embodiment of a man/woman’s legacy. What was built with their hands, minds, and spirits was a testament to their indomitable will to wade through the turbulent waters. Hard work also provided meaning for their lives, which allowed them to be the vibrant thread woven into the tapestry of their communities. Those individuals were driven to create a life that they had dreamed of and now their work was complete. Thus, what does a man/woman who spent a lifetime working do? Hence, their minds begin to race and their bodies become uneasy. They are bothered by the still of the night, only to arise to a lackluster morning. They find that while their legacy is cemented in history, their soul is in turmoil. They stare into that cold mirror alone and afraid only to realize that this too is meaningless, in comparison to living a God-centered life. 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

03.10.14
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The Rumor Mill

Proverbs 26:22 –“Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

What is your favorite candy? Mine are Twizzlers. Each Twizzler tastes as good as the first, which makes stopping seemingly impossible. After some time had elapsed, I realize that a 1 pound bag was consumed in a single sitting. If we ignore the caloric intake and focus on my upset stomach, we will see that my eyes were bigger than my stomach. Thus, can’t the same be said for our mouths being bigger than our minds? For one word kindled the flame. Two words set it ablaze and three words brought the wood. Our phrases have strengthened the fire, which leads to verbal paragraphs that created an unquenchable conflagration. Thus, our words cannot be careless, or our fiery tongue will scathe all who stood around us. Therefore, may we hush and be quiet, for if our words are left untamed we will find ourselves in utter ruin. (Speak through love) 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

02.19.14
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A Life for God

Jeremiah 10:23- “I know LORD, that our lives are not our own. We are not able to plan our own course.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Blogger

Do we know? Is it possible to comprehend the magnitude of this verse and navigate a path, without even seeing the blueprints? Is there a plan when a young girl stands desolate without hope, due to a man robbing her of her purity? Her body now appears dismembered as if painted by Salvador Dali. Her mind is now distorted and love becomes nothing more than sewage down the pipes of a commode. Her heart is now encased in ice. Physically and emotionally she is dead. Her body is no longer her own, but a corpse walking among the living. Her spirit is ready to move on, BUT GOD pulls back the curtain to reveal the light. Her eyes burn and she stumbles, but she manages to reach the door. FREEDOM is found as she takes steps forward. Friends and family rush to aid in her walk, as God never left Ana Martinez, but enabled her to tell her story. Click here to listen http://bit.ly/1jEGXXN 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

02.15.14
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Love Is…

1 John 4:10- “This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Blogger

If you find this verse cliché, stop reading. If you find this topic redundant, stop reading. If you know the true meaning of love, by all means teach a seminar. For it is only through Christ’s sacrifice that we know true love. Here we’re shown that love has no ulterior motives, nor is it steeped in infatuation. Lust is not cached in love, because purity encapsulates it. Love needs no materials to garner affection. Love is a rotating daily cycle, instead of a single occasion. Love is restrained, not unbridled. Love is satisfying, not insatiable. Love is… In fact, John 15:13 says, “there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” Hence, we were chosen to produce long lasting fruit, while administering patience before ripening. Now our flavor is procured, until the Divine Gardener plucks us off the vine. LOVE through CHRIST. 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

02.10.14
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Love Incarnate

Song of Songs 8:10- “When my lover looks at me, he is delighted with what he sees.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Blogger

When the novelty fades and the thrill is gone, will you still be there my love? When time ages us and our skin creases, will you still look at me adoringly, my love? When we are ridiculed for having only each other, will you regret your decision, my dove? Or will you take my hand to soar above the earth like eagles, my dove? May our time together be an example. A paradigm of epic proportions. A display to unveil the glory of God’s truth amidst the world’s lies. For the characteristics of godliness built an unquenchable fire that no man or woman can put asunder. For patience nurtured that emotion tied to the gate of eternity, while purity affixed our eyes to behold the soul located beneath the flesh. If perseverance coddled the flame, then what was ignited before will hold its heat from the beginning. Here is love shown in its greatest form. A loyalty and trust that will weather any storm. Love in Christ.

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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

02.03.14
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The Better Half

Note: I didn’t convince Herbert to write this devotional. He was lead by the Holy Spirit to share on this topic. Thank you Herbert!

-Nicole

Proverbs 31:10-“Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Blogger

In this world there are two sides to every story, two sides to every coin, and two types of humans. For when God created Adam He knew a companion was needed, hence the formation of Eve. This union was special, but like most men, Adam listened to the desires of his heart, rather than God’s voice. However, don’t lose hope, for Proverbs 31 paints a beautiful picture of an honorable woman. For her charm doesn’t coerce men to fight for her. Her beauty shuns men’s lustful desires and shames them. Her allure is not like the mythological Sirens, (who sang beautiful songs to entangle men and ultimately cause their untimely deaths.) No, this woman fears the Lord. She wears the belt of chastity, while donning the armor of truth. She can’t be claimed, for God is her groom. She’s a queen amongst the over populated masses. In essence, she is a woman who brings honor to her counterpart, and glory to the Lord. 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

01.27.14
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Wants and Needs: God Is Above All

Luke 12:15- “Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

I want vs. I need. Hope vs. Despair. The ability to have much vs. The inability to have anything. Where do we begin? How about with the overarching theme that binds them, which is materialism. A noun that has become the driver behind love, happiness, and comfort. For God started out as the driver, but now has moved to the passenger seat, so that we might take the wheel. Result?

Well, our lives have become nothing more than blurred lines, etched in with the stencil of greed to create a cataclysmic masterpiece of grief and contention. Where is our hope? For those materials have rotted and those things have been repossessed. I believe my friend Diana said it best: “My life is tough, I’m away from family, friends, and I have no job, but I have a great church, husband, and shelter. Need I say more.” So may we get along with what we have and get on with the business of living.  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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

01.13.14
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Words from Above: Decrease Self, Increase Christ

Matthew 5:16- “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

First, thank you to Ms. Hayes for providing me with words of wisdom that have resonated deep within my soul. For too many of us need to “decrease ourselves and increase Him.” In fact, we need “more of God’s words and less of ours.” Too many times our opinions cloud our judgments. Too many times our words are riddled with discrepancies that lead us to confusion. Our VOICES are HEARD more LOUDLY than HIS. Why does this happen? Well, we are told that we hold our own futures, that we are the masters of our own fates. If this stands true, why does one bad circumstance lead us to a cataclysmic realization of our own weaknesses? Why must God silence our voice before we can hear his whisper? Thus, may we hold our tongue and speak the truth. May we configure our mind around God’s Word and purse our lips from foolish speech, for God needs to be exalted, not us. 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.

01.06.14
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Trust Your Life to an Unfailing God

1 Peter 4:19- “If you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who made you, for he will never fail you.” (New Living Translation)

Herbert Bowen, Jr. Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Herbert Bowen, Jr.
Voices Against the Grain Guest Blogger

Three key words can be found within this scripture and they are TRUST, SUFFERING, AND FAILURE. We SUFFER because we stand against the normality of the world. We are deemed outcasts and failures due to our sweet aroma of moral fiber, which repulses the mundane onlooker. We TRUST in God’s love because it is pure and given without any contingencies. Thus, may we look upon 2014 hopeful that our various circumstances will turn around. For we will not succeed under our own volition, nor can we prosper with the works of our own hands. Now many believe they have and even boast about their prosperity, but, like one strand of straw that could break the back of a camel, so is one problem’s chance of crushing our spirits. So may we must rejoice in suffering, cling to our trust in Him, and recognize that with God we cannot fail. As Christians we can be confident in this word from Philippians 1:6- “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” 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.  At his current age of 24, 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.