Half MaratHon at 53Beverly Myles

Read How She Did It

Put Your trust In God... not Man!

Modern BeautY In CHrIstIan lIvInG

Looking For Help! by Sharnelle Jones

InfoRM • EDucatE • InSpIRE

over & underEstimation:

How It can affect Your BusinessDr. paul D. Landrew

2011 Fall Issue

Special Edition

Free

Inspirational Message:

CHrIstIan MaGazIne

Recognizing our YouthC o n t e n t s4 community Events and academic

programs in Houston, tX

7 Inspirational Message: Looking for Help! Sharnelle Jones

8 Salvation: Invitation to christ

12 Money Management: financial Responsibility Byron Jackson Jr.

“Go amber Go!”

amber curl, a six-grader at Wells Middle School, second child of five. She has a posi-tive attitude and great outlook on life. Her goals are to one day become a police officer or a teacher, if not both. Her hobbies are photography and hair.

For Further Information and Advertisment Services Please Contact Our Office:

713-316-0404 or ourDirector of Advertisment/Independent Insurance Agent:

Byron Jackson Jr. @ 832-754-4379

For suggestions, comments, life stories, or Monetary contributions, please send to:M’Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine

P.O. Box 90425 - Houston, Tx 77290-0425

For more information about the printing of this magazine contact: Metprinting, Ed Metoryer @ 713-680-3647

Inside Every Issue

3 What Love Is! I corinthians 13:1-13

5 a Word from the publisher: Elizabeth Jackson

6 Business as Ministry:

“over & under-Estimation”

Dr. paul D. Landrew

10 featured article: Beverly Myles “trained for a Half Marathon at 53”

13 Did You Know?

president Barack obama was not the

first Black president?

Inside this fall 2011 Issue

© 2011 M’BRACING BEAUTY CHRISTIAN MAGAZINE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MATE-RIAL MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED OR COPIED IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN ANY FORM

WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION.

Publisher / Co-Founder elizabeth JaCkson

advertising direCtor byron JaCkson Jr.

Managing editor Melvin kirks

assistant editor sheila Cortez-lister

researCher dr. earnest burnett Jr.

data entry/editor rayChelle hatChett

Journalist/editor kyauta gaJere

Marketer/editor JaCkie JaCkson

direCtor oF entertainMent graCe gaJere

Journalist/editor veoria Moore

PhotograPxher Ferrell PhelPs

sPorts PhotograPher keith tillis

Editorial Staff

What Love Is?

Love is patient,

Love is kind, and is not jealous; love does notbrag and is not arrogant,

Does not act unbecomingly;it does not seek its own,

Is not provoked,

Does not take into account a wrong suffered,

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Does not rejoice in un-righteousness, but rejoices with the truth;

[Love] bears all things.

[Love] believes all things.

[Love] hopes all things.

[Love] endures all things.

[Love] never fails;”

I corinthians 13:1-13- the Bible makes it plain that it doesn’t matter if you speak in tongues of men, know all mysteries and all knowledge, have the gift of prophecy, have all faith to re-move mountains, but have not love it means nothing nor does it profits nothing. paul is saying, although you have the abil-ity to do and speak all these things, but do not demonstrate love one to another, you are like a man pulling an empty wagon; making a lot of noise. So I encourage you to demonstrate LOVE!

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S.H.A.P.E. Community Center

Elders Institute of Wisdom Program

Every Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 am - 2:30 pm

S.H.A.P.E. Community Center 3815 Live Oak 713-521-0641

Saturday Events @ S.H.A.P.E. Community Center

3815 Live Oak • 713-521-0641

» Community Service Orientation - 9:45 am - 11:30 am

» Legal Clinic -Free Consultation 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

» HIV/AIDS Education Workshop - Free 11:00 am - 2:30 pm

» Capoeira Classes - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

» Fruit & Vegetable Co-op - Third Saturday of the month 7 1 3 -521-0629

» Free Math Tutoring Classes - 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Crisis Pregnancy Center

16 Week Curriculum - L.E.A.P. (Life Education Assistance Program)

The foundation for all instruction is based on God’s Word. Instructors use multiple resources such as videos, prepared materials, practical experience, professional expertise, and personal testimonies. Lessons are given over Pre-natal, Par-enting, Loving Choices, Relationships, Advancement through Education and Financial Planning.

Acres Homes Youth Association

3511 Pinemont, Suite C-1. Houston, TX 77018

Telephone: 713.688.2114 | Fax:713.686-8109

Enrichment Interest Programs:

S.I.S.T.A Circle: Super, Intelligent, Special, Talented, Achievers Etiquette & More for Girls ages 4-17 yrs old. Year round program, meetings are twice a month.

B.R.O.T.H.A.S.: Boys Realizing Opportunities to Help Achieve Success Ages : 7-17

Basics Steps on Defense: How To Protect Yourself. Ladies/Teen Mothers/Daughters ONLY

Sewing Classes: Back to basics Ages 7 & up; two week sessions

The Basics on Car Care Maintenance: Ladies/Teens Mother/Daughters ONLY

Baby-sitting Certification

Learn How to Dress/Complete Job Applications and Inter-view for a Job: Teens ONLY

Acres Homes Multi-Center

Sisterhood of Faith In ActionSuite 211/713.694.3330 Hours of Service: 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. Monday & Friday Provides information and counseling services to youth, pre-natal health education to pregnant females, general health education to women, early childhood education, family literacy and Baby Basics services.

advanCe Head startDay-care Suite/713.694.1619 Hours of Service: 7:15 a.m. — 5:45 p.m., Monday — Friday Services low-income children that are ages three or four by September 1 of the program year. Offers integrated and interdisciplinary services that focus on the whole child as well as the family. Provides early education and childhood development, health services, nutrition services, mental wellness services, family services and special services for children with disabilities.

Neighborhood CeNters, iNC. seNior CitizeNs ProgramSuite 189/713.694.4165 Hours of Service: 8 a.m. — 3 p.m., Monday — Friday Provides daily meals, arts, and crafts, educational classes, field trips, scheduled recreational activities, physical fitness sessions, daily transportation and information and referrals, plans, organizes and implements programs to fit the need of all senior citizens.

community Services and Events in Houston, tX

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It is important that we possess boldness and confidence in Christ Jesus. As I began pursuing my Associates de-gree in Biblical Studies (ABS) at the College of Biblical

Studies, I decided to take public speaking for the 2010 Spring Semester, which was apart of my ABS degree plan. Before beginning my college education, I became some-what hesitant because in my mind, I thought the odds were stacked against me. I’m 47, a wife, mother of five adult children, grandmother of 11, and an entrepreneur; every-thing in my life at that time said I would not be success-ful in pursuing a formal education, but the more I read and heard the Word of God the stronger I became (spiri-tually, mentally & physically). Before long, I was able to cancel out all the negativities that was flashing before me and was reminded by God’s Word that, “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me,” and that in-cludes becoming formerly educated – at any age. Needless to say, I am over halfway through accomplishing my goal of getting my degree with a 3.6 GPA; how great is our God?

First week of school, first challenge: My class for public speak-ing began at 7:30 a.m. For those of you who don’t know me, I am not a morning person - 7:30 a.m., that was a challenge all by itself; But God! Whenever I felt like giving up, I would hear this still small gentle compassionate voice saying, “You can do all things through Christ Jesus that strengthens you.”

Second week, second challenge: My instructor had a firm “stick-to-rule-book personality”. However, I still enjoyed his teachings, by the second week he began talking about research and how he expects us to research correctly and how he takes researching serious. I had prayed to God earli-er that week about sending me someone that has a passion for researching information for the magazine. This would be a major accomplishment for the magazine because it would help assure the readers that the information they are reading has crediblility. It was at that moment when he spoke, “I love to research,” I thought to myself, “Maybe I can ask him to become a part of the magazine’s editorial team as our researcher?” Immediately the enemy (doubt) spoke to me, “Don’t embarrass yourself, he won’t be interested in that; he’s a Professor with a doctoral degree and there is no way he would be interested in someone so little as you or what you’re doing.” Reality grasped me after hearing those words. I sat back in my chair in a sense of hopeless-ness as if to agree with what the enemy had just told me.

I continued to listen to my professor speak; that’s when God once again, whispered into my heart and reminded me of His Word, “You have not because you ask not. Do not be afraid I have answered your prayers”. It was then that a burst of courage overshadowed me. After the semester ended I sent my professor a thank you email letting him know how much i aprreciated his teachings. He responded, “It was a pleasure to be your teacher and if there’s any-thing you need do not hesitate to let me know.” First door open: I took that statement at face value, so I asked him if he would be interested in writing an article for the maga-zine. His response, “I would be honored.” He agreed and wrote an article in our first 2011 issue, entitled “The Im-portance of Obtaining An Education”. To God be the glory!

I would like to personally and publicly thank Professor Ear-nest Burnett for writing one of the greatest articles in our 2011 First Issue and he is now apart of our staff: How great is our God!!!

My brothers and my sisters walk in boldness! Learn to live by: Psalm 138:3 “On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul.”

Always remember, if God be for you, He is more than the entire world against you and most of all you never walk alone. For He said He would never leave you nor forsake you. When the enemy tells you things that are contrary to the word of God, speak the Word back to him as Je-sus did. Jesus spoke to the devil in the wilderness when He was tempted. Jesus said, “For it is written,” three times. Everytime the Devil tempted Jesus, Jesus spoke “For it is written,” finally the Devil left. I encourage you to Adopt those four powerful words, “For it is written”, and use them on a daily basis. Trust me, they work!

Be Encouraged & Courageous in the Lord,

Elizabeth (Liz) Jackson, Publisher

alking Boldly in The Lord“In whom we have boldness and confident access

through faith in Him.” Ephesians 3:12 (NASB)

a Word from the publisher | M’Bracing Beauty Magazine

5

W

Elizabeth Jackson, publisher

over-Estimation and under-Estimation:

M’Bracing Beauty Magazine | Business as Ministry

6

the idea of self employment and business ownership for many is an exciting one. the thought of mental, physical, professional and financial freedom can be-come captivating. Many would-be entrepreneurs are inspired by the success stories published in vari-ous media. they are impressed with “rags to riches” accounts from people who seem to be so in control of their lives and who look to be living their dream. What they are not privy to are the hours, weeks, months and years it took for them to get there. they had to live through what was, in order to enjoy what is. Budding entrepreneurs are smitten by the possibility that they too can climb to the pinnacle of success through their own enterprise.

Sadly once engaged, there is usually an encounter with an unpleasant reality. they are usually enrolled in the class of real business 101 where they are forced to study the subjects of over-estimation and under-estimation.

over-estimation is when you give too much credit to something. this could be internal or external. In oth-er words you believed that certain conditions would continue to exist, certain people would continue to par-ticipate, certain promises would be kept and a certain response to your product or service would occur. this

is at times most damaging because your business re-quires people to both “need” and “want” what you offer. If there is no desire or demand for your prod-uct or service then there is no business. over-esti-mation of your product’s or service’s value to your target population can lead to deep disappointment.

over-estimation can be devastating as it involves that which usually appears one way and then ends up another. over-estimation can also be levied on the personal entrepreneur. While operating under the adrenalin of an idea, he or she is fueled by pas-sion and desire for the idea. the euphoria is suffi-cient to help them battle any obstacle. the problem with internal over-estimation is that the entrepre-neur believes they will always feel that way. there is a tendency to over-estimate the sacrifice required for the long haul. they fail to realize that there will be lonely days ahead when the vision makes sense to them and them only. that is when they will be pressed to feel the passion until the right partner-ships show up.

as devastating as over-estimation can be, under-es-timation can be just as damaging. under-estimation usually happens when you devalue the negative pos-sibilities which exist around your initiative. none of us like to be considered negative thinkers, but when launching a business enterprise, potential adverse conditions must be acknowledged. this is the only way you can be sure you have a comprehensive plan that includes alternatives and contingencies if the best case scenario to make your business a success is slow in coming.

planning for the negative potential demonstrates your ability to be a broad based thinker and that you are mature enough to handle the adversity you might be forced to face.

If you are thinking of launching a business give some thought to over-estimation and under-estimation it can save you from big trouble down the road.

paul D. Landrew

How It can affect Your Business!

Dr. Paul D. Landrew, Pastor

Inspirational Message | M’Bracing Beauty Magazine

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Have you ever had an experience where you’ve gone through such pain, such hurt, such confusion and such stress, to the point where all you sought after was a chance to lock your-self up inside of your own disappointments and shut everybody and everything out? Did you seek out your usual outlets for help – family, close friends, coworkers, the church, or even the government – only to discover that the help from them was not coming fast enough, if at all? I once had a friend who was so despondent over her circumstances until she refused help from her church. She explained, “I didn’t want to hear any-thing about the Bible. I was too frustrated.” When Biblical help is refused what’s next: Food? Alcohol? The opinions of other people?

I have learned from my own personal experiences that food, al-cohol or certain “advice” of other people does not help – it’s an escape! If what you choose as “help” doesn’t bring a solution or peace to your problem but simply alters your focus, you may find yourself where I once was: in a position that only brought delays and consequences that further overwhelmed me.

But I’ve got Great news today: real help DID come and I will point you to the way!

In Psalm 121:1-2, the psalmist says, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.”

In this text the word “help” means ‘Ezer’ in the Hebrew lan-gauge, and it suggests Jehovah’s personal assistance for those who can’t help themselves. Wow! His personal assistance is the following: He provides Security. Ps.121:3(a) - “He will not al-low your foot to slip;” He provides Safety. Ps. 121:3(b) - “…He who keeps you will not slumber.” He Gives protection. Ps.121: 4 “Behold He who keeps Israel Will neither slumber nor sleep.” He provides Divine care. Ps.121:.7 - “The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep you soul.”

Looking for help in all the wrong places can carry with it a myriad of consequences: consuming alcohol can lead to disori-ented thinking, even drunk driving. Some even look to dishon-est relationships. What can start as “just needing someone to listen to me who understands me”, can turn into “how did I get into this and how do I get out?” Even turning to the opinions of other people can bring confusion and instability, especially if its ungodly advice. Not to mention the regret you feel that so many folk are now in your business!

Since the LORD is Creator, Maker of heaven and earth, since He knows you like no one else knows you, He understands the deep, inner places of your life like no one else. Since He watches over your life – the very essence of who you are, then why not look to Him for your Help? Take your frustration, your hurt, your pain and your confusion to the LORD! Talk to Him right there where you are! The next time you’re facing conflict instead of saying, “I need a drink!” Say “I need a WORD – a Word from the Lord!”

Any “guidance” outside of the Word of God is a decoy, a hin-drance, a distraction to prevent you from coming to a perma-nent, peaceful resolution. I choose to see my LORD as my Help and not a hindrance. His Help bears no consequences. His Help bears no regrets. What you think can end your problem could be the start of a new problem. Look to Him – there’s no help that He can’t help! One of the greatest pains in life is to one day look back and wish you would have looked to the LORD. Don’t live one more day of your life in a state of rejecting Him. Let’s choose today to receive the Lord’s Help, His Personal As-sistance and choose today to receive His peace.

Sharnelle Ruth Jones

Sharnelle Ruth Jones is the wife of her wonderful husband, Marcus and mother of 2 adorable children, Hannah and Joshua. She is a student at Houston Grad-uate School of Theology, a lecturer with the Emerging Voices Institute (AJAMM Ministries International, Inc.), and a Choir Director within the Pasadena Independent School District. A native of Beaumont, TX, she currently resides in Houston, TX Sjones0571@aol.com

Looking for Help “I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from

where shall my help come? My help comes from the LoRD, who made the heaven and earth.” psalm 121 (naSB)

The Prayer of SalvationRomans 10:9,10

You Can Receive Jesus Christ Right Now by Faith - Through Prayer:

Lord Jesus, I need You to come into my life. I thank You for dying on the cross for my sins, and arose from the dead. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving me of my sins and giving me

eternal life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Now That You Have Received Jesus Christ as Your Lord and Savior!

ThemomentthatyoureceivedJesusChristbyfaith,asanactofwill,many thingshappened,includingthefollowing:

1.Christcameintoyourlife.Rev.3:20andColossians1:27 2.Yoursinswereforgiven.Colossians1:14 3.YoubecomeachildofGod.John1:12 4.Youreceivedeternallife.John5:24 5.YoubeginthegreatadventureforwhichGodcreatedyou. John10:10;IICorinthians5:17;IThessalonians5:18

Can you think of anything more wonderful that could happen to you than receiving Christ?

As soon as you can find a Bible believing and Bible teaching Church so that you can begin to hear and study the Word of God. Remember, Faith comes by

hearing the Word of God.” Paul D. Landrew

8

Matthrew 17:20 (NASB)

~Mustard Seed Faith!~

“...Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, If you have faith the size of a mustard

seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be

impossible to you.”

AFTER YOU PRAYED THE PRAYER OF SALVATION BELOW ARE SOMESUGGESTED CHURCHES YOU MAY CONSIDER GOING TO FOR MORE BIBLE BASED TEACHING AND GUIDANCE IN THE WORD OF GOD.

Pastor Paul d. landrew

St. Stephen BaptiSt ChurCh

170 rittenhouSe houSton, tX 77076

Pastor roland Booker

God’S true ChurCh 1401 WeSt tidWell

houSton , tX 77091

Pastor Bennett t. Cortez

Greater Faith BaptiSt ChurCh

9235 WeSt MontGoMery rd.houSton, tX 77088

Pastor JoHn aldoPH

antioCh MiSSionary BaptiSt ChurCh

3920 WeSt Cardinal drive BeauMont, tX 77705

Pastor deMetrIus Moffett FirSt ChurCh oF God

911 Main Street

oranGe, tX 77630

Pastor MelvIn H. kIrks Jr.BridGe CroSSroad ChurCh

12515 Fondren Ste. FhouSton, tX. 77035

What The Bible Says About

Our Greatest Salvation

Hebrews 2:1-4“What has been the greatest moment of your life? For some people, the answer might be their wedding day, the birth of a child, or an important promotion. But for believers, the best experience is salvation, when their eternal destiny was changed. New Christians often have a fervor to share their faith. In time, however, many find their hearts cooling as they focus less on their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Hewbrews 2:1 instructs, “Therefore we must give the most earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.” Salvation is God’s amazing solution to man’s sinful condition: it is His gift of rescue - through the death of Jesus- from the penalty of our transgressions.” Charles Stanley

9

Pastor HenrY tHoMas

true FelloWShip BaptiSt ChurCh

3115 n. Fry

Katy, tX 77449

Pastor BYron JaCkson sr.SprinG Chapel CMe ChurCh

23486 FM rd. 838 overton, tX 75684

Pastor Paul d. landrew

St. Stephen BaptiSt ChurCh

609 W. littleyorK houSton, tX 77076

Pastor Paul d. landrew

St. Stephen BaptiSt ChurCh South loCation

501 Murphy rd.StaFFord, tX 77477

Trained for a Half Marathon at 53

Push-up Sit-up Arm press

Stretching Squats Running

Hi I’m Beverly Myles; At age 53, I actually feel better than I felt 30 years ago at age 23! I am the same size I was 27 years ago after I gave birth to my son, Michael. At age 47, I was 5”2”, 215 pounds, wearing a size 18w. Today I am 165 pounds, wearing a size 12 (sometimes a 10) depending on how it’s made! My ideal weight is 150. Hopefully, One day, I’ll get there! The really surprising thing is that “I don’t diet”! Listen to me! My secret is called the 3 W’s: Watching, Walk-ing, & Water! Listen ladies, “It Works!” I owe it all to God!!

It all started the summer of 2005, after under-go-ing surgery for a partial hysterectomy. I decided after I was completely healed, I would “do something different” in my life. Previously, I had been walking about 3-4 times a week, but on the way home I would stop at Whataburger to satisfy my craving! Occasionally, I watched what I ate; but I really wasn’t serious about it; just doing it cause it felt good. One

day I went into my doctor’s office for a routine exam; afterwards, she wrote a referral for complete blood work. The results of the blood work indicated that I was “borderline” diabetic. This freaked me out! Me! No, not me! There must be a mistake! After I calmed down, my doctor proceeded to write a prescription for medication to help lower my blood sugar. I thought,” here I go again, making the pharmaceuticals richer”. Then, all of a sudden, I heard that still, small voice in my head saying, No, you don’t need that! She handed me the prescription, I looked at it, looked at her and said, What can I do to change my condition if I choose not to take this? She looked at me astonished and re-plied, Beverly, you need to change your eating habits and get some exercise. Actually, this was not the first time she had told me this. But for some reason, this time I felt different about it. Immediately, I made up

The Best Years of My Life!

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in my mind that I would do just that! My husband, Tommy and I “seriously” started walking June, the summer of 2006. Three (3) months later, I went back to the doctor, had blood work done again and guess what? My blood sugar was back down to normal!! I never took the medication!

The decisions we make in life determine “who” we are and “who” we belong to. Life is full of choices. If what we’re doing is not working for us, we should pray that we are living in the will of God, then choose to do something different according to his will. His will is in the word of God. Choosing to do something different will sometimes take you out of your “comfort zone” but believe me, it’s ok; es-pecially after you start feeling so much better. I chose to do something different by changing my lifestyle. Romans 12: 1-2 reads, I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiri-tual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you may discern what is the will of God; what is good and acceptable and perfect. I started taking care of myself by eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, taking vitamins everyday, and making exercise a part of my life.

Remember, the three (W’s): watching, water, & walking. “Watching” what you eat does not mean eating the same thing everyday! It doesn’t mean you can’t ever eat a candy bar or drink a regular soda again! I have learned that even if you decide to eat bad one day; continue to eat healthy the next day. Don’t decide, “I messed up” I might as well forget it! Eating unhealthy should only be done in moderation; not everyday! This is one of the biggest mis-takes people make! Another mistake is assuming that “eat-ing healthy” is “too” expensive! I admit it can be expensive but guess what! Medication is even more expensive. Eating healthy takes a lot of discipline and sacrifice. Changing life-styles is also very important. I love to shop; but I am learn-ing that even shopping needs to be done in moderation! Less shopping will allow you to have more money in your healthy food budget to afford to eat more fruits, vegetables, and protein! Proverbs 3:7-8 reads “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. We should become good stewards over everything including our bod-ies. Remember, our bodies are a temple of God.

About 2 years ago, a friend approached me one morning while walking in the park. He asked,” have you ever thought about running the ½ marathon?” I looked at him and laughed; he then said,” I’m serious”. I replied, Alton, I’m not ready. He responded, sign up now and I will help you get ready. Alton is a “seasoned” runner. He has run in over 25 running events and is 65 years old! Well, I tarried, didn’t sign up in time and then finally signed up a year later, in Au-gust, 2010; was chosen in the lottery pick; and then started training immediately.

Training was a challenge for me; especially at age 52. But as I looked back over my life, I guess I have to say, “I like challenges”! Challenges remind me that no matter how hard it gets, God has my back! He’ll be with me all the way! Training consisted of 2 days a week sprinting 250 yard laps and running hills; 3 days a week jogging 4-6 mile regu-lar jogging; 1 day a week (preferably on Saturday) jogging 7-9 miles! I trained from September-January, 2011. During training about 2 weeks before I ran the ½ marathon, my purse was stolen at the park while I was working out! It kind of “got me” for a little while; but it didn’t stop me. The next day, I was back out there at it again! That’s how I am, pretty much with everything, very resilient!

On January, 30, 2011, I ran the Houston Aramco Half Marathon (13.1 miles) @ 3.52 min less than 4 hours) which was my goal! Next year I plan to run it @ 3.25 and I will! When I think about the goodness of Jesus and all he’s done for me; my soul cries out Hallelujah!, Thank You Lord, for saving my life, renewing my mind, for keeping me focused on “You” and what You have done, still doing, and will continue to do in my life while I am living in Your “Will”!

Before

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Did You Know? taking Responsibility for Your financial futureby Byron Jackson Jr.

Financial responsibility is a very im-portant part of life. The Lord expects us to be good stewards over the income He al-lows us to earn. “Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles, but the one who gathers by labor increases it,” Proverbs 13:11 (NASB). The Lord expects us to work and He allows us to prosper in our endeavors. “He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich,” Proverbs 10:4 (NASB). He also has a plan for our financial gains. “For you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who is giving you the power to get wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your father, as it is this day,” Deut 8:18 (NASB).

We need to use wisdom in dealing with our finances. This includes our earn-ings, investments, savings, and expenses. We should be able to live comfortably with what we earn no matter how much or how little that may be. In order to do this we have to live within our means. This requires

M’Bracing Beauty Magazine | Money Management

12

us to budget our income so that we spend less than what we earn. This will allow us to provide for our families, limit our debts, in-vest in our future and leave an inheritance for our children and grandchildren. “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for righteous.” Prov. 13:22 (NASB)

We should also look out for our fellow-man. When we meet others who are in need we should be willing to help meet their needs whether it be with a helping hand, sharing information we have to make their lives bet-ter, teaching them the skills necessary to live more productive lives or providing them with financial assistance. When we help improve the lives of others we help improve our lives. “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself” Prov. 11:25 (NASB).

If necessary we should consult with oth-ers who have a better grasp of financial mat-ters than we may have. It should be someone we trust and respect. This may be a financial advisor if our situation allows or someone we know who handles their own finances well and is willing to share what they have learned with others. This is not a sign of weakness but wis-dom. Consulting with those we can learn from is a very wise decision and can help us avoid many financial mistakes and pitfalls.

Byron Jackson Jr. Independent Insurance Agent

Byron Jackson Jr.

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Did You Know? | M’Bracing Beauty Magazine

American History:John Hanson- Who was he?

George Washington was *NOT* the first

President of the United States. In fact, the

first President of the United States was

one John Hanson. Don’t go checking the

encyclopedia for this guy’s name - he is

one of those great men that are lost to his-

tory. If you’re extremely lucky, you may

actually find a brief mention of his name.

The new country was actually formed on

March 1, 1781 with the adoption of The Ar-

ticles of Confederation.

This document was actually proposed

on June 11, 1776, but not agreed upon

by Congress until November 15, 1777.

Maryland refused to sign this document

until Virginia and New York ceded their

western lands (Maryland was afraid that

these states would gain too much power

in the new government from such large

amounts of land). Once the signing took

place in 1781, a President was needed to

run the country. John Hanson was cho-

sen unanimously by Congress (which in-

cluded George Washington). In fact, all the

other potential candidates refused to run

against him, as he was a major player in

the revolution and an extremely influential

member of Congress.

As the first President, Hanson had quite

the shoes to fill. No one had ever been

President and the role was poorly defined.

His actions in office would set precedent

for all future Presidents. He took office just

as the Revolutionary War ended. Almost

immediately, the troops demanded to be

paid. As would be expected after any long

war, there were no funds to meet the sala-

ries. As a result, the soldiers threatened

to overthrow the new government and put

Washington on the throne as a monarch.

All the members of Congress ran for their

lives, leaving Hanson as the only guy left

running the government. He somehow

managed to calm the troops down and

hold the country together. If he had failed,

the government would have fallen almost

immediately and everyone would have

been bowing to King Washington. In fact,

Hanson sent 800 pounds of sterling siliver

by his brother Samuel Hanson to George

Washington to provide the troops with

shoes. Hanson, as President, ordered all

foreign troops off American soil, as well as

the removal of all foreign flags. This was

quite the feat, considering the fact that so

many European countries had a stake in

the United States since the days following

Columbus.

Hanson established the Great Seal of the

United States, which all Presidents have

since been required to use on all official

documents. President Hanson also estab-

lished the first Treasury Department, the

first Secretary of War, and the first For-

eign Affairs Department. Lastly, he de-

clared that the fourth Thursday of every

November was to be Thanksgiving Day,

which is still true today.

The Articles of Confederation only al-

lowed a President to serve a one year

term during any three year period, so

Hanson actually accomplished quite

a bit in such little time. ******Six other

presidents were elected after him - Elias

Boudinot (1783), Thomas Mifflin (1784),

Richard Henry Lee (1785), Nathan Gor-

man (1786), Arthur St. Clair (1787), and

Cyrus Griffin (1788) - all prior to Wash-

ington taking office.

Q. So what happened? Why don’t we ever

hear about the first seven Presidents of

the United States?

It’s quite simple - The Articles of Confed-

eration didn’t work well. The individual

states had too much power and nothing

could be agreed upon. A new doctrine

needed to be written - something we

know as the Constitution. And that leads

us to the end of our story.

George Washington was definitely not

the first President of the United States.

He was the first President of the United

States under the Constitution we follow

today. And the first seven Presidents are

forgotten in history.

FOR DETAILED RESEARCH GENEALOGY

CHECK THIS LINK FOR ACTUAL FACTS

http://www.presidentjohnhanson.com/

Developing Self-control

for advertisement contact Byron Jackson Jr. @ 832-754-4379 or Email: byron.jackson66@yahoo.com

Steps 3-7- Continuation from Issue 1

In our series, we’ve been looking at building our life on values that last; choosing a standard, accept-ing responsibility, developing trust, and this week developing self control. This is not exactly a quality that a lot of people want to talk about today. We’re not really into discipline. We’re into whatever feels good, do. Self control is an area that all of us have to deal with in one way or the other. It’s not just for those who blow up. It’s also for those who clam up. Most people are one of two in life. They’re either a skunk or a turtle When a skunk gets in trouble, he stinks the place up. He lets it rip and everybody knows when the skunk’s upset! On the other hand, the turtle folds himself into his shell. He hides, he cowers down. They don’t blow up; they clam up. Both of those are inappropriate forms of anger. In our society it’s very obvious we don’t know how to handle anger. Violence is on the increase. Crime is on the increase. Profanity is on the increase. Half of all murders actually occur between fam-ily members. People are getting angry about little things. It seems like, as the frustration level rises, so does the anger. As the anger increases, so does the violence. As in every other area, God has given us His Word to instruct us in how to develop self control. Anger is not evil in itself. Anger is not a sin. God gets angry, so obviously it’s not a sin. The Bible says that Jesus got angry. Anger is a God-given emotion, the problem is in how we express our anger. In the book of Proverbs, God gives us seven specific suggestions or steps, keys, secrets.

Controlling Anger

(Proverbs 25:28) He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

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3. (Restrain) my mouth.

(Psalms 141:3) Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. We’ve got to think before we speak because inevitably anger control is mouth control.Have you noticed that you cannot put your foot in your mouth when it’s closed? (Proverbs 17:28) Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of under-standing.

If we will learn to keep our mouth shut we’ll stay out of trouble. (Proverbs 21:23) Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

God gives us a good formula to follow in the book of James. (James 1:19) Wherefore, my be-loved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

If we will do the first two, the third one is in-evitable, but if we are slow to listen and quick to speak we’re going to be quick to anger. The Bible says it starts with restraining my mouth. That’s the ultimate form of emotional maturity -- the ability to control our mouth. Some of the things we’ve been taught about anger just aren’t true. Some have said, “We have to blow off a little steam once in a while.” “Don’t hold in the anger…let it out, you will feel better once you do that”That is contrary to the Word of God! God tells us to control our emotions… especially our anger!

4. (Reflect) before reacting.

(Proverbs 29:11) A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. (Proverbs 19:11) The discretion of a man de-ferred his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. Delay is a tremendous remedy for anger, not indefinitely. Anger delayed indefi-nitely becomes bitterness and that’s worse than anger. But if we respond impulsively, we’re going to tend to respond in anger. When we wait a little bit and let it cool, we will be more rationale, more reasonable. The longer you hold

Photo by www.dailywordofgodgroup.com/bible-self-control.htm

“Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.” (proverbs 21:23 KJV)

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your temper, the better it gets.

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think before we speak:

T = Truthful- Before we say it, is it the truth?

H = Helpful- is it helpful or is it just going to harm?

I = Inspirational -Does it build up or does it tear down?

N = Necessary - If it’s not necessary, don’t say it? Some things aren’t necessarily wrong, they’re just not necessary so we don’t need to say it.

K = Kind- is it kind?

What do we do during that delay, while we’re wait-ing? We try to figure out why we’re angry. We try to understand it. Anger is always the symptom of the real problem. We get angry because something else is wrong: we are hurt, frustrated, or afraid.

Examples: stubbing your toe… waiting in a long line… child runs into a street…

5. (Release) my anger appropriately.

(Ephesians 4:26) Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: That verse means there’s a way to be angry and not sin. It is not automatically a sin to get angry. There are appropriate ways and there are inap-propriate ways to get angry. There are helpful ways and there are harmful ways. There are right ways and wrong ways. It’s all in how we deal with it. Three ways not to deal with anger:

1. Don’t suppress your anger.

a. Don’t store it up inside.

b. We have to deal with it.

c. If we don’t, we will suffer.

2. Don’t repress it.

a. Denial. “I am not angry. Everything is fine.”

b. When we deny that we are angry it is being dishonest.

c. God doesn’t want us to be dishonest.

3. Don’t express it in inappropriate ways.

a. Pouting: acting like a baby that doesn’t get its way.

b. Sarcasm: hurting people with our words.

c. Manipulation: Revenge and retaliation “Don’t get mad, get even.”

d. It may be in any number of other ways that are inappropriate; if we don’t handle an-ger God’s way it is always inappropriate!

4. We must confess it! (Proverbs 22:24) Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:

a. This verse is saying that anger is contagious.

b. When somebody else gets loud, we get loud too.

6. (Return) good for evil.

(Romans 12:17-21) Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be pos-sible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. The heart of the problem is the problem with the heart. (Matthew 12:34) O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

It’s not my mouth that gets me in trouble, it’s my heart! Je-sus is saying that whatever’s inside of us is what comes out. Like a tube of toothpaste…nothing comes out until we squeeze it. When the pressure is on, and we get squeezed what comes out? Whatever is inside!

7. (Request) God’s help.

(Psalms 141:3) Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. The final principle on develop-ing self control is asking God to enable us. In our own power we are incapable of controlling our mouths…our tongues.

(James 3:8) But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

He saved us and has us given the power to become all that we need to be through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

(2 Corinthians 5:17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

“So I encourage you this day to Resolve to control it, Realize the cost, Restrain your mouth, Reflect before reacting, Release your anger appropriately, Return good, not evil, and Request God’s help so that you can be able to effectively be a blessing one to another.” In Jesus’ name. Amen!

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