2009: The Year of DIVINE...2010: The Year of DIVINE ORDER

2009 was truly the Year of DIVINE. We were privileged to do a plethora of new things--launching new events, being a part of the biggest award shows in the Christian/Gospel industry, traveling to Africa on a life-changing Mission Trip, getting connected in CyberWorld, inspiring hundreds of people to greatness & so much more! In 2010, we're expecting even more explosive things to happen and believe that it will be like DIVINE Dynamite all year long!!!

At the start of 2009 and during his Inaugural speech, President Barack Obama stated “we the people have remained faithful” and “the challenges we face are real, but they will be met.” He reminded us that now “our spirit is stronger and that we will not be broken.” However, our destiny depends on us embracing “the knowledge that God calls on us to accept” and that it will take the “faith and determination of the American people” to survive the tough times.

We have a strenuous road ahead in 2010 but we will remain faithful to what we know works to survive. Those ingredients include trusting God, being firmly planted in our places of worship, protecting our communities and creating a safe and progressive environment for our children--our leaders of tomorrow.

As we prepare for 2010 let's take a moment to recap on DIVINE Magazine's 2009 Highlights :

Stellar Awards
My staff and I had the privilege to cover the Stellar Awards and rub elbows with legendary gospel artists. (Scroll Down For Pics)

DOVE Awards We took part in covering the biggest award show in the Christian arena at The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN. (Scroll Down For Pics)

BEAUTY SESSIONS/FELLAS NIGHT OUT EVENTS
We also launched two exciting events that are scheduled throughout the entire year: BEAUTY SESSIONS, an event for ladies and FELLAS NIGHT OUT, an event for men. Both events were great successes and brought the realization that gathering in God’s name and doing life together are extremely important. Click Here To View Pics!

MISSION TRIP TO AFRICA
I also had the privilege to travel on a mission trip to Africa to share the message of Jesus and love on children at Care Points. I also kept a journal while I was on my 10 day journey and shared it in the Fall 2009 Issue of DIVINE (click here to view) to encourage others to go on a mission trip or sow into others who desire to go out as missionaries.

CYBERWORLD CONNECTIONS
We have also tapped into the cyber world to increase our Internet presence by joining Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, & creating THIS BLOG. We also distribute an electronic newsletter to hundreds of readers entitled Bringing You Everything Inspirational to provide information about the positive events that are taking place around the city and beyond. The e-newsletter is also a great opportunity for business owners to spread the word about their services and connect with potential customers. (To receive DIVINE Magazine's weekly e-newsletter email us). We also launched DIVINE Digital to allow more people to be impacted by our publication and went from reaching 1,500 people to a total of 5,000 people by making the magazine available in a print and digital format. We plan to double that number in 2010.

PARTNERSHIPS We partnered with so many awesome organizations this year including the Reggie Howard Foundation, Naked Truth Singles Conference, Annual Sickle Cell Walk, Hagar's Ministry For Single Mothers, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Paradigm Dental Center, Norfleet Entertainment, Kingdom Alliance Entertainment, R.J. Groove Kingdom Party, Light Records, PKP Agency, JoVenTosh Couture, Judy Jacobs & The International Institute of Mentoring and a number of churches & ministries!

ADVERTISERS & SPONSORS DIVINE could not be where it is without the support of its Advertisers & Sponsors!
You know who you are and we appreciate all that you do & by sowing into DIVINE you are sowing right back into your business/ministry. May you, your family and your business/ministry experience extreme overflow and favor always.

READERS & SUPPORTERS Without your support our purpose of inspiring men & women to greatness would be null & void. Thank you for being with us for 3 years and for growing with us. We aim to produce a publication that gets better & better with each issue and to create as many ways as possible to keep you connected and motivated in life to do what you're purposed to do! Thanks again for motivating us & letting us know that you like what we do!!! Words can't express the appreciation.

In closing, I am elated with the concept of change and what's to come in 2010. I hope that DIVINE has been a blessing to you in 2009 and that you will continue to support us in 2010 as we move forward in inspiring men and women to walk in their purpose.

Remember Be Encouraged, Be Grateful, Be Inspired!

DIVINE Magazine Publisher

What Wonderful Child Is This

There are so many elements of Jesus’ birth that I would love to capture. The star that shone so bright, the three wise men that came as witnesses, the pregnancy of the virgin Mary, the fact that there was no room at the inn or that our Lord and Savior Jesus was born in a stable. The list could go on, however, the common thread would be the need to take notice and celebrate that miraculous occasion. Every event which led up to Jesus’ birth represented an even greater purpose in the end. Every person involved in Jesus’ birth was an ordinary person who became a part of something extraordinary.

It is so important to understand how mysteriously God can work. Sometimes, it may seem that life is moving slowly, that our chaotic workplace will never subside, that our children will never straighten up and fly right, that our spouses will always make things difficult, that school will always be a struggle, that there will always be more bills than paycheck. However, there is a light at the end of the road. That light this holiday season is that star that was shining so bright. It is the same light that led the three wise men who had never seen or met Jesus to travel to be by his side. The wise men came prepared with gifts expecting to find something worth celebrating. Speaking of expecting, the virgin Mary was given the honor of carrying Jesus in her womb. She was required by God that is, to accept her role at a young age and had to endure an awkward situation throughout her pregnancy. Even the mother of Jesus had to endure trials and tribulations.

There is a great message that should be our focus this holiday season: in every situation we face, God knows what’s best even if it seems uncomfortable for a time. Philippians 4:6 says “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. As we go into the New Year, we must continue to exhibit patience and trust God to move in our lives. Whether it is a desire to be married, steps on how to lead a spouse to Christ, whether to go back to school, or how to get out of debt, God wants us to make our requests known and then prayerfully wait for Him instead of trying to fix things on our own.

Have A Merry Christmas! Jesus is the Reason For The Season!!!

10 Reasons Why You Might Be Single

If you are single you are probably use to being bombarded with the classic question: "Why are you still single?" or "When are you going to get married?" Lately, you have even started to question this idea and ponder whether or not you should be considering a serious relationship. There are plenty of reasons why you are still single and it's about time that you start facing the facts.

Here Are The 10 Reasons Why You Might Be Single:

1. God has you in your preparation stage.
2. It’s just not your season to be in a relationship.
3. God is still working on you.
4. God is still working on that special someone.
5. You don’t need any distractions right now.
6. You need to learn to balance life (professional, personal, etc.).
7. It’s your opportunity to travel, start a book club, learn a new trade, etc.
8. You can be an example to someone else.
9. The singles ministry and other ministries need you.
10. You need to learn to be truly happy with yourself.

Any Questions? Pray About It & Accept The Season That You're In.

***Study these Single Men & Women from Biblical Times:

• Daniel
• Jesus
• Shadrach
• Paul
• Meshach
• John the Baptist
• Obednego
• Philip's four daughters
• Elijah
• Elisha
• Jeremiah

Also read "They Were Single Too: 8 Biblical Role Models" By David M. Hoffeditz

Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Missionary?

We journey through most of our lives trying to figure out how we can make ourselves look better, feel better or be better. Few people in life can say they eat, sleep and breathe to help others. However, the truth is none of the things that we do for ourselves matter. It’s what we do for others and ultimately what we do for Christ that’s important. I’m sure you’ve heard the old hymn titled, “Only What You Do for Christ Will Last” and in that song there’s a verse that says, “Soon the glories of this life will all be past, but only what you do for Christ will last.” Challenge yourself to do things that will last and it will be no surprise that it will involve serving other people.

Local Impact
Local ministries are very important to the growth and the stability of communities. After a storm hits a community or tragedy strikes, it is the local churches, ministries and organizations that help families rebuild their lives. Local ministries provide light and a beacon of hope to local citizens. Volunteers are always needed to carry the torch. If you’re looking for ways to make a local impact, get involved with ministries like Angel Food, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, prison ministries, hospital ministries, nursing home ministries and college ministries. Connect with your place of worship or perform an on-line search for ministries in your community and get involved.

Global Impact
Going on a mission trip can be the ultimate step in impacting nations. Taking a mission trip to places like Uganda, Brazil, New Guinea, Israel, China and beyond can be a life changing event for you and the lives of the people that you touch. When the natives see missionaries, it is a testament to them that Jesus cares enough about them to send people from miles away to love, care for and spend time with them.

Ways to Get Started

Here are some links to a few organizations to get involved both locally and globally:

Local Impact:

http://www.angelfoodministries.com/

http://www.habitat.org/

http://www.redcross.org/

http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/

Global Impact:

http://www.goglobalmissions.com/

http://preparingtogo.com/

http://thriveafrica.org/

http://gregandkristinevans.com/

10 Day Challenge To Serve

Missionary Archives

Continuation from DIVINE Magazine's Article "10 Day Challenge To Serve" Fall 2009 Issue

For a complete Digital Copy of the Fall 2009 Issue email divinemagazine@gmail.com

Nancy Clary

Church/Affiliated Ministry: Healing Place Church, Baton Rouge, LA Epic Student Ministries

Last year in 2008 I had the chance to make my first trip to Swaziland, Africa with HPC and Go Global Ministries. We had the chance to serve Healing Place Swaziland and Children’s Cup ministries and community outreach at local schools with basketball clinics. The experience was life changing for me. I second guessed myself and God before I went. Why me? Why here? Why now? Am I too old? (48) I am just an average Christian with simple faith…not a special teacher, preacher or the like. However, that was just the voice of the accuser trying to impede my path. That trip forged relationships with people that will last a lifetime.

I did have the chance to return this year and reunite with many friends from last year. I was reminded that the African people have so little, yet they give so much of themselves to you. I was changed by seeing the amazing faith of a people so impoverished and oppressed. It was amazing to me that they see so many teams each year, yet they remembered me. Surely that is God’s way of letting me know that it was His will for me and that it did make an impact on them.
I believe that I love even more deeply and unhindered since my two trips. I am taking greater risks to walk in all that God has for me and I am more willing to do things that seem so out of my reach and/or comfort zone. My advice is don’t miss the chance to know our God more intimate and love others more deeply. Don’t miss the chance to see how much of our lives are spent thinking about ourselves and don’t ever think that you are too old or ill equipped…..just go. My life with God is now summed up by this statement: The answer is yes Lord, what is your question.

I had heard that said, but to have it happen to you is different. My heart holds faces and lives that I may never see again and I am forever changed by them. I pray that in some way the role I played on that trip will help their life a bit.


Kyle Beckwith

Church/Affiliated Ministry: Go Global Missions at The Life Church of Memphis

My mission trip to Swaziland, Africa has made a tremendous impact on my ministry as a musician and a minister of the gospel. I believe that my ministries are way more inclusive and practical instead of stylistically focused. God showed me that the same issues we have locally are somewhat the same issues that we have globally. Obviously, some are worse than others. However, the message has to be the same across the board and the message has to be supported by works not just a good sermon or song. The message is that Jesus Christ is alive and wants to live in us and will change our life forever if we allow him. The work is seemingly infinite and eternal and it involves stepping out of our comfort zone for the purpose of Christ, which is ultimately the salvation of his people (physically, mentally, and spiritually). I think that I have impacted the mind and the hearts of my family and friends by igniting their curiosity, as well as the possibility of them stepping out on faith to either go on a mission trip or at least be in greater support of those who do decide to go.



Kassie Perritt

Church/Affiliated Ministry: Go Global Missions at The Life Church of Memphis

For the past 3 summers I have gone on short-term mission trips to Africa. All trips were mainly to Swaziland, but I also had the opportunity to visit Nairobi, Kenya and Durban, South Africa. The very first trip changed my life and gave me a heart for Africa. I am currently applying for a one year overseas internship through Go Global. Every time I am there I don't really feel homesick. I love being there. It's quite an indescribable feeling that I don't know how to explain other than it simply being a God thing. I want to reach His people and share His love with those who don't know it.

To the read the entire "10 Day Challenge To Serve" article, request a FREE Digital Copy of the Fall 2009 Issue of DIVINE Magazine by emailing divinemagazine@gmail.com

Social Networks or Your Soul?

Social Networks like Facebook, Myspace, Virb, Twitter, BlackPlanet, Ning, LinkedIn, Blogspot, Friendster, Tagged, and hundreds more have taken over many people's lives. I admit that I love staying connected to friends and family through social networks but I also notice the negative aspects of them as well. I encourage everyone who use social networks to do so with caution. Don't lose your soul to a Social Network!

Distractions

Social Networks can take all of your time if you're not careful. Set a time limit and don't go past your allotted time to chat with friends and family,etc. If you can no longer seem to focus on spending time in the Word of God, striving toward your career goals, taking care of your family and other responsibilities or you find yourself constantly checking your phone for updates, then you may need to evaluate where your priorities lie.

Unusual Connections

You may be connected with people through social networks who have a warped sense of life and who bombard you and your thoughts with their opinions. Guard your heart against things that you know are not of God. Be on guard against evil influences and by people who are not on the same path as you. You should be an example to other people who are lost and confused about life. Matthew 5:16 says "...let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Be the light in the dark places and even on social networks.

Be Careful Little Eyes

Many social networks can lead to developing dangerous relationships with strangers and even open a door to other serious issues. Be careful with exchanging photos, checking out links to third party websites and going into chat rooms that have questionable atmospheres.

All In Fun

Social networks are designed to be fun and to provide a network or platform to socialize. It was never meant to turn into a place for men and women to act unbecoming to themselves or one another. I encourage you to be mindful of your usage or over usage of Social Networks. Anything that takes you away from your relationship with God, serving others and fulfilling your purpose is not something that should be a priority in your life. So choose your Soul over a Social Network every time!

Memphis' Mayoral Race 2009

Kenneth T. Whalum, Jr.


A.C. Wharton

Carol Chumney

Thursday, October 15, 2009 Memphians will vote in a very special election for a new Mayor of Memphis. Several candidates are running for this position and DIVINE Magazine had the priviliege of catching up with some of the TOP candidates.

Scroll down to read interviews with Carol Chumney, A.C. Wharton, and Kenneth T. Whalum Jr.

A huge thanks to each candidate for taking the time to share with DIVINE readers in the Memphis area what they plan to do for the city of Memphis.

Many Blessings To Each Of You on Your Campaign!

7 Questions For...

Memphis Mayoral Candidate Carol Chumney

DIVINE: (1) What are the top 5 issues you plan to tackle as mayor?

CC: I have a "Back to Basics" platform, which can be viewed at http://www.carolchumneyonline.com/. As a lifelong Memphian who loves this city, my top priorities are to cut crime, bring good-paying jobs, work with the faith-based community and businesses to provide after-school activities and summer jobs for youth, fill the Pyramid, and revitalize neighborhoods.

DIVINE: (2) What support can you/do you plan to provide for Faith Based Organizations?

CC: I am a person of faith and regularly attend Calvary Episcopal Church (downtown), and Hope Presbyterian Church (Cordova). I have visited churches, synagogues,and other places of worship in Memphis. I will form an advisory committee of religious leaders from different faiths. I will work with them and businesses to develop programs for positive after-school activities and summer jobs for youth.

DIVINE: (3) Describe your passion for the City of Memphis.

CC: After 40 years since the tragic death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in our city, I believe this is the appointed time for Memphians to come together and heal. We have wandered in the wilderness long enough, and can conquer the giants of high crime, high unemployment, high poverty, and kids not having hope and a future, and make this a world class city. I see Memphis as becoming the economic engine of the South.

DIVINE: (4) Why do you want to be the mayor?

CC: I've devoted most of my adult life to public service, and I believe in the people of Memphis. I am running for Mayor because I believe that we can bring the change we need.

DIVINE: (5) What do you feel you bring to the table?

CC: I bring 13 years as a state legislator, and 4 years as a Memphis City Councilwoman. I also have been an attorney in private practice for over 22 years. The people of Memphis have always been able to count on me to stand up for them and let their voices be heard. I have a record of getting things done, such as fighting to repeal the 12 year pension for elected officials, passing statewide reform to make child care safer, passing the law to let the Memphis Church Health Center provide health care to thousands of working poor, and stopping legislation that would let corporations cover up environmental hazards. I am a proud graduate of the Memphis Public Schools, and of the University of Memphis college and law school.

DIVINE: (6) How will citizens be able to gauge your progress as mayor?

CC: Is your neighborhood safer? Are kids in school, and safer on the way to and from school? Are there more positive activities for youth after school, and summer jobs? Are more good-paying jobs here? Are we being perceived as the up and coming city for relocation of businesses and families? Since this special election is to fill a vacancy, I will have less than 700 days to make a difference. I believe we can.

DIVINE: (7) Who/What Inspires You?

CC: The stories in the Bible inspire me- such as David who was anointed by God to become the King of Israel because he was a good shepherd, had faith, and a true heart. Or how about the battle of Gideon, in Judges, chapters 6 and 7. Gideon started with an army of 22,000 men, and God sent all of them home except for 300 men to defeat the Midianites and show his power.

7 Questions For...

Memphis Mayoral Candidate A.C. Wharton

DIVINE: (1) What are the top issues that you plan to tackle when you get into office?
AC: (1) Solving Crime is my number one priority. (2) Safety next because I want to ensure domestic tranquility. (3) Job Security because if we have more jobs it means less people in jail, less worry about teenage pregnancy, low self-esteem, etc. If people have good jobs then there is a certain pride and dignity that flows from them, people feel like they are contributing. (4) Education because building support and finding resources for our schools is very important. I want to have a better relationship with the schools by providing support and not meddling.


DIVINE: (2) How long will it take for your plan of action to take place?
AC: Immediately. I am working on projects right now.


DIVINE: (3) What support can you/do you plan to provide for Faith Based Organizations?
AC: Build on what I've done already. Continue with the Faith Based Council and continue to implement programs like Headstart, Community Clean-up Programs, etc. I owe Faith Based Organizations for their support. I'd be the first to help with funding just as we did with World Overcomers and the Infant Mortality Project.


DIVINE: (4) Who/What Inspires You?
AC: My faith inspires me...I am a spirited person...it's hard for me to see evil. I always see the good in things and people. I have a good ability to do that. The people of good will greatly outweigh the people that don't...I can't walk way from that...I want to be involved with it.


DIVINE: (5) How would you change the big ball of potential theory that surrounds the city of Memphis?
AC: We've got the potential to be an excellent city...we have so many natural attributes--the river, the untapped labor force, people of good will, University of Memphis, University of Tennessee, Lemoyne Owen, all the colleges and universities and much more. We just need a leader to tap into it and release it. Even the fact that Allen Iverson is here is great, anything that will unleash the competitiveness in us and the spirit of teamwork is good for our city.


DIVINE: (6) How will citizens be able to gauge the city of Memphis' progress under your leadership?
AC: I'm accessible and transparent about everything. I will set goals, provide time tables and measuring devices. I will always communicate with the citizens what's going on in our city.


DIVINE: (7) Describe your passion for the city of Memphis.
AC: I've had the privilege to travel to a lot of places and all cities have challenges. It's a love affair with me as it relates to my passion for Memphis. I wasn't born and raised here but I moved here by choice and stayed by choice. I want to help this city reach its fullest potential.

7 Questions For...

Memphis Mayoral Candidate Kenneth Whalum

DIVINE: (1) What are the top 5 issues you plan to tackle as mayor?

KW:There are only two major issues in this campaign. All the rest flow from them.

(1) Consolidation. I will swiftly snuff out the talk of consolidation and the spending of government resources on promoting consolidation, and redirect all resources into meeting the needs of MEMPHIANS; in other words, those who live inside the city limits.

(2) Personal Character. I will continue to lead by example in terms of faithfulness to my wife, serving as role model for boys, covering this community’s women and children.

DIVINE: (2) How long will it take your plan of action to take place?

KW: In the first 30 days I will conduct a public and systematic inspection of crucial city services to determine whether a standard of excellence in customer satisfaction is being met. This will include practice in the chain of command and communication exercises.

DIVINE: (3) What support can you/do you plan to provide for Faith Based Organizations?

KW: Within constitutional legal restraints I will offer support to those FBO who provide services to Memphis citizens based on need and not religious affiliation.

DIVINE: (4) What is the greatest hindrance to Memphis' growth?

KW: A communal inferiority complex that has been in place since the day Dr. King was assassinated.

DIVINE: (5) What are your plans to remove the hindrance(s)?
KW: I will continue to uplift young people and give them an actual voice in their own government by adopting the principles and policies of the Memphis Youth Manifesto found at http://www.memphisyouthmanifesto.com/

DIVINE: (6) Describe your passion for the City of Memphis.
KW: MUSIC – MARTIN – MEMPHIANS. NEW MOVEMENT – NEW MAYOR – NEW MEMPHIS – VOTE WHALUM!

DIVINE: (7) Why do you want to be the mayor?
KW: Because we owe it to the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to make the city he died in a shining example of excellence.

A NEW SEASON!

Whenever we enter a new season I’m always tempted to think about the seasons that we encounter in our lives. Some of our seasons are plentiful, some are barren and some are stagnant. When we are in the midst of a good season we are the happiest people alive but when our seasons are not so pleasant we tend to withdraw from the world. Philippians 4:11 (KJV) urges us to “be content in whatever state we are in”. I admit this is hard to do when faced with family sickness or unpleasant co-workers or other tough situations, but it is definitely a good challenge to Christians. As we are blessed with cool Fall evenings, the beautiful colors that drench the leaves, and the smell of the crisp morning air let's remember to do a few things:

• Display cool, calm and even cheerful countenances no matter what.


• Reflect upon your attitude, your demeanor and your moods.


• Remember to express beautiful spirits and speak pleasant words.


• Plant good seeds for a bountiful harvest.


• Blossom in the Spirit of God.


• Most importantly, allow God to do a “new” thing within you during this new season!

Enjoy Fall!

Life’s Tests Lead to Testimonies

Trusting God is not just something to say anymore. It is a statement that comes at a high cost. A statement that has to be spoken with vigilance and by those who are unafraid of the tests that comes along with it. All tests aren’t from Satan. Many tests and trials come from God and He wants to see if we really trust Him. If you haven’t already, you will come to a point where going to church just isn’t enough, reading motivational books just isn’t enough, pep talks from friends won’t do. You’ve got to wake up everyday thinking, “Lord, will this mountain move today?” and at the end of the day when it hasn’t moved you’ve got to say, “Okay, Lord you’re in control so maybe tomorrow.” Even when the mountain you’re waiting on God to move becomes two, three or four mountains, you’ve got to take a deep breath and put your hands in God’s hands and say, “Lord, I trust you.”

I’ve discovered that even when you try to do everything right you still face adversity. People still come into your life and alter your paths. Situations continue to arise that force you to question your purpose and destiny. Moments like these can seem like they will last an eternity. These are the moments when God is pruning you and stretching you. All you feel like doing is crying, complaining, whining, screaming, hollering or all of the above. When you feel anger, resentment, disappointment, and disgust and you ask yourself, “why me” the question that really matters is “why not you”?

On many occasions God has brought us out of our situations and He is the “same yesterday, and today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 KJV). He changes not. He rescued you before so why believe that your current situation is any different. It’s not. Trust God. He never fails.

What About The Children?

Image Provided By Associated Press

Sixteen year old Derrion Albert was beaten to death last week at the hands of his peers. I heard about the incident through the grapevine but researched the news story myself and cringed as I watched the video of the incident at length. I was heartbroken and watched in disbelief as an innocent honor roll student was caught up in the middle of senseless fighting.

Gang violence amongst teenagers and consenting adults has gone too far. The lack of value for another human being's life is an abomination and unacceptable. The laughter and jeering that was heard on the videotape of what turned out to be this young man's last few breaths was an indication that this level of fighting has become the norm in our neighborhoods. It means that these type of brawls are just as common as watching a reality show or sitcom or as amusing as recording an event in real time and uploading it to YouTube for everyone to see. However, this time the rolling credits at the end of the video indicated that if viewers could "identify anyone in the video allegedly involved in the death of Derrion Albert, please call Chicago Police Dept. at 312-747-8272." Unfortunately, that's how the story of Derrion's life ended.

Our nation needs serious prayer and there needs to be a rallying of communties to win back our children. Our children need structure and guidance and if they can't get it at home they need structure and guidance at church, school, community centers, the neighborhood grocery store, the post office, wherever they go.

Prov 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." If parents would dedicate their lives to training their children and sowing into their children as opposed to working constantly, spending excessive amounts of time glued to the cell phone, or out with friends, a huge percentage of behavioral problems amongst our youth would be resolved. We need parents that are guilty of slacking in their duties to stand up and be parents. It's not an easy task but there are support groups and tons of literature to help in the process.

There's also an old African proverb that says, "It takes a village to raise a child." It's up to everyone to help our youth. If you are not already involved in a child's life I encourage you to ask yourself, "What About The Children?" The children like Derrion, the children like those who took Derrion's precious life for granted, the children like those who stood around laughing. Make sure you are imparting your wisdom and love into a young child's life. If you know a parent struggling to raise a son or daughter, pour into that parent and help raise that child. Seek out organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, Youth Villages, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Girls Inc., local schools, the youth ministry at your place of worship, community centers, etc. to volunteer your time throughout the year! Our future generation of leaders need guidance.

Let's be in prayer for our youth, the parents of our youth and most importantly for the family of 16 year old Derrion Albert. May He Rest In Peace & May His Death Cause People To Stand Up For What's Right Everywhere.

TOXIC FRIENDS: How Many of Us Have Them?

People come in and out of our lives but not everyone deserves the title of friend. You’ve heard the saying, “Some people are in your life for a reason or a season.” Never has a statement been so true and anyone who fails to take heed to the lesson behind those words can end up with or probably already has toxic friends.

What is a toxic friend? It’s sort of an oxymoron because a friend wouldn’t normally be called toxic. It seems that anything considered toxic can’t be good. Toxic waste dumps, toxic bins to store previously used needles, and now toxic friends. In essence, a toxic friend is someone that can and will cause harm in your life. Thinking someone is a genuine friend when they are really toxic is almost as detrimental.

Let’s take a look at some toxic situations among so-called friends:

Toxic Situation 1
After a couple of bad experiences, Amy reluctantly decided to attend a party with her friend Bethany. Amy expressed to Bethany beforehand that they should stay together and watch each other’s back. Bethany reassures Amy that everything will be okay. As soon as the two enter the party, Bethany disappears with a guy into a dark corner. Later Amy sees Bethany taking shots of liquor with a group of strangers and tries to get her to leave. She claims that she is okay and that they would leave soon. Amy keeps a close eye on Bethany but is distracted by a fight. When Amy is clear from danger she searches frantically to find a non-existent Bethany. Amy resorts to sitting in her car hoping that Bethany would soon appear. After a few hours, Amy sees a couple of guys carrying out an apparently drunk girl. When Amy realizes that the girl is Bethany she rescues her from the guys in fear of what they had in mind. The next weekend, Amy receives a phone call from Bethany who wants to go to another party. What should Amy do?

Toxic Situation 2
Derek has been involved with his new girlfriend for about three months. His friend Jason is known to be a bit of a ladies man and has a reputation. Derek doesn’t pay attention to the rumors that he has heard about his friend Jason. On one occasion, Derek needed Jason to pick his girlfriend up from the airport. Jason was happy to help and put on his best outfit, his favorite cologne and headed to the airport. When Jason arrived, Derek’s girlfriend April noticed how strangely Jason was acting. Jason used every possible opportunity to stand a little too close to April or flash his winning smile. Everything Jason did made April extremely uncomfortable. When April was home, she called Derek to explain the situation but he refused to believe that his friend of 8 years would try to flirt with his girlfriend. Who should Derek believe?

Sometimes it’s hard to pinpoint a toxic friend and it’s even harder to end this type of friendship. Therefore, in choosing friends consider what Jesus said in John 15: 12: “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” So you should love your friends as Christ has loved you and your friends should do the same. In any situation if a so-called friend does not have your best interest at heart they are a toxic friend. If you continue to deal with that person they will soon get you into a situation that can be dangerous to your life.

Keep your eyes open and your hand in God’s hand to recognize warning signs of toxic friendships. I Corinthians 10: 13 reminds us that “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” In other words, God always gives us a way out especially in toxic friendships. When people come into your life use your best judgment, choose wisely!