Happy Thanksgiving !!!

November 24 , 2011

Holiday Woes

A songwriter once wrote, "It's the most wonderful time of the year, With the kids jingle belling, and everyone telling you, “Be of good cheer, It's the most wonderful time of the year."  Even though this perspective may be true for some, others view the holiday season as something completely different.

Because of such things as financial hardships and the expectations from family and friends, for some, the holiday season presents a time of frustration and despair. Simply put, it cost to travel and it cost to host the family meal. It cost to purchase the gifts that the children are requesting and anticipating; and, it cost to keep them wearing clothes and shoes that fit and are in good condition. Gas is high, food is high, and the simple necessities of life have stretched some to limits they have never known! Saving has become more and more difficult and in some instances next to impossible. When the car breaks down and someone in the household gets sick…it cost!

In today’s trying times, where would we be without God?  Where would we be without the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Where would we be without the Word of God?  Reading God’s word doesn’t cost…it pays!  Thanking God for what
we still have doesn’t cost…it pays!  Taking EVERYTHING to God in prayer, doesn’t cost…it pays!  When we are
pulled this way and that, God keeps us grounded and by telling us in his Word,“THIS is the way, walk ye in it.”  Is. 30:21 Why? Because through the Word of God we gain wisdom and strength that prepares us for the difficult trials that we all must face.  We find HOPE for tomorrow!

When Trouble Comes

A few weeks ago, I heard a sermon that I felt would be perfect for people struggling during this time of the year.
Dr. Delsadie Callins of Ephesus SDA Church in Birmingham, Alabama, delivered a message entitled "When Trouble Comes". During her message, she tackled many of the issues that we struggle with on a daily basis and provided us with a very solid answer. I hope that it is as much of a blessing to you as it was for me and my family.

When Trouble Comes - Part 1 (video clip)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72Q1G6hK9Ek

When Trouble Comes - Part 2 (video clip)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DD5DpLJ__eM

Double For Your Trouble

This summer, I had the privilege of singing on a program that featured 5 year old Samuel M. Green. Samuel's ministry began by way of a telephone devotional service called Morning Manna. One day, he was given the opportunity to speak God's word and he instantly became a favorite of program. This was my first opportunity to meet him in person, and he was definitely just as sincere as I imagined.

It is a perfect example of how a person's life can change once they develop a relationship with God. If God can help a five year old to get up and speak his word with boldness, imagine what He can do for you. I have provided you with a link to
his entire sermon from this summer.

Double For Your Trouble - Samuel M. Green (5 years old)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpWe1XuhvRU



Morning Manna

Did you know that it is possible to participate in an early morning devotional service Sunday-Friday at 5:30 am? Prayer, a song, and a message is given between 5:30-6:00 am. Then testimonies, prayer requests, and prayers are lifted up between 6:00-6:30 am. The live program can be accessed by calling 1-(712)-432-0075. The Access Code is 748339# and remember to *6 (mute) your phone. For those of us who may not always be available to participate regularly, during the live program, there is also a playback number that you can call and listen to the message for that day. The playback number is 1-(712)-432-1085. The Access Code is the same. Each message is recorded, but replaced daily as each new service is recorded. If you are ever able to tune in to the Morning Manna, please do so, I know that you will be encouraged and assuredly blessed!

Thank You!!!

Over the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of attending Women's Retreats and Women's Day programs in both Mississippi and Alabama. I would like to thank ..... Sis. Dorothy Montgomery, Quenyotta Williams Young (my childhood friend and forever sister), and all of the ladies at Ephesus SDA Church in Greenville, MS for allowing me to worship with you on your Women’s Day. All of the lovely ladies at Ephesus (Greenville) will forever have a special place in my heart.

To the entire Mississippi Women’s Ministry staff, I would like to say, "Thank You!" You have inspired me over the years as I grew up under your guidance and counsel; and, I continue to learn and grow from your spiritual wisdom and knowledge. I consider it a privilege to come back and serve others, through Christ, with you.

A special thanks also goes out to Sis. Clementine Collins (Mother Clem). I feel very honored and blessed that you allowed me to be the featured musician for the Alabama Women’s Retreat even though you had never heard me sing more than a couple of songs. Often, we hear people say that they live by faith; but, it is rare that we actually meet someone that really applies it on a consistent basis. Even though you may not realize it, you are a wonderful mentor for many of the people around you. Thank you for sharing your love for Jesus.