Why What You Do First Determines What’s Blessed

Why What You Do First Determines What’s Blessed

by | Sep 14, 2024 | Empowerment, Christian, Christianity, Decisions, Encouragement, Goals, Motivation, Self-Leadership, Success

“I feel it is better to begin with God, to see His face first, to get my soul near him before it is near another.” E.M. Bounds

If you were to open any dictionary and look up “Godly Woman”, I’m willing to suggest that my mother, Margaret Stowers’ picture would accompany the definition.

Why would I say this? Well, she understood the wisdom of “firsts”, giving God the first of everything – in all areas of life. My mother believed in giving God the first hour of the day, the first day of the week, and the first dime of every dollar.

My Mom Gave God The First Hour of the Day

My mom believed that the bridge to success is better crossed in the morning, the best part of uninterrupted time. This was her time to talk to God through prayer, read and reflect on Scripture, and listen to God’s voice.

That’s right, the wife of a pastor didn’t read the newspaper, talk on the phone, or turn on the television. She would wake up, shower, make coffee, and spend the first hour of her day with God.

Today, my mother is no longer with us, she’s with God. But, even today, one of my clearest memories of her is her morning rhythm. Years later, as I reflect, her example inspires me to form a similar habit and make it a part off my daily rhythm.

If you’re thinking you can just as easily connect with God any time of the day, you’re right, you could. You could connect at noon, in the afternoon, or before you go to bed. But, nothing puts an exclamation point on the day like giving God the first hour of our day.

My Mom Gave God The First Day of the Week

Along with giving God the first hour of her day, my mom also believed in and practiced giving back to God the first day of each week. She went to church! Attending wasn’t optional, it was a priority in the Stowers household. Unfortunately, Sunday is now an extension of the weekend and we can hardly distinguish it from Saturday.

Church attendance is declining and it’s a trend that’s not going away. It’s accelerating. Leadership coach and blogger Carey Neiuwhof writes extensively on church trends and attendance and lists 10 Reasons Even Committed Church Members Are Attending Less. Topping Carey’s list is:

1) Greater Affluence – money gives people options,

2) Higher Focus on Children’s Activities – more kids are playing sports and doing it on Sunday, and

3) Blended Parent Families – when custody is shared in a family situation, ‘perfect’ attendance for a kid or teen might be 26 Sundays a year.

You can read the rest of Carey’s post here.

Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future: The Significance of Black History Month

Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future: The Significance of Black History Month

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Black History Month, Empowerment, Race, Success

Black History Month commemorates and honors the rich history, accomplishments, and contributions of African Americans to American society.

For nearly a century, this annual observance has been an integral part of American culture, serving as a symbol of pride and unity for the African American community.

From the efforts of historian and author Carter G. Woodson to today's celebrations and events, Black History Month holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Americans.

In this blog post, we will examine the origins and significance of Black History Month, as well as how it is observed, and reflect on both the progress made and the work that remains to be done. Join us as we celebrate and honor African Americans' rich legacy and impact on our country.

With that being said, let's delve into a deeper understanding of the importance of Black History Month.


Understanding the Importance of Black History Month

February is significant in American history since it is Black History Month.

This annual commemoration allows us to reflect on the diverse and significant contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society. Black History Month has been an important part of American culture since its inception in the 1920s, acting as a symbol of pride and unity for the African American community.

Americans are encouraged to learn more about the African American experience and how it has influenced our country's history throughout this month. Black History Month serves as a timely reminder of all that African Americans have done in sectors ranging from politics to science to education despite adversity.

This month also serves as a reminder of the numerous ways in which African Americans have contributed to our country's growth via their ingenuity, perseverance, and determination. Let us look ahead to the future with hope and excitement as we reflect on the past.

With a better understanding of the importance of Black History Month, let's take a look at its origins and how it became a celebrated observance in America.

February is significant in American history since it is Black History Month. This annual commemoration allows us to reflect on the diverse and significant contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society.

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The Origin of Black History Month

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, was instrumental in establishing Black History Month.

He established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926 with the goal of promoting the study and acknowledgement of African American history.

Carter G. Woodson launched "Negro History Week" the following year, which was ultimately expanded to become Black History Month. February is utilized to honor and recognize the achievements of African Americans throughout history.

From the Revolutionary War to the present day, persons of African heritage have made substantial contributions to literature, science, medicine, civil rights movement, and other fields.

Furthermore, Black History Month allows us all to learn about the difficulties endured by African Americans in the past and now, allowing us to continue to strive for a brighter future for everyone.

Having traced the roots of Black History Month, it's time to delve deeper into why it holds such significance and why it continues to be an important observance in our society.

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, was instrumental in establishing Black History Month. He established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926 with the goal of promoting the study and acknowledgement of African American history.

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The Significance of Black History Month

Black History Month provides a chance to educate the general public on the significant role that African Americans have played in molding American history. It is time to honor African Americans' achievements and efforts while simultaneously raising awareness about current issues and injustices.

Black History Month is also a time for reflection, as it allows us to assess the progress made in improving African Americans' rights and opportunities, as well as the work that still needs to be done. Everyone must engage in recognizing African American contributions to make Black History Month as successful as possible.

We can express our support in a variety of ways, from attending special events and lectures to shopping at African-American companies. Furthermore, residents can learn more about African American history by using the various resources accessible on the internet and through local libraries.

With a clear understanding of the significance of Black History Month, let's now turn our attention to how it is celebrated and the various ways in which communities come together to mark this important occasion.

Black History Month is also a time for reflection, as it allows us to assess the progress made in improving African Americans' rights and opportunities, as well as the work that still needs to be done.

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The Celebration of Black History Month

Black History Month is honored through a range of activities such as festivals, exhibitions, and presentations. The event is usually attended by schools and community organizations, with a focus on educating young people about African American history and culture.

Aside from these events, many people choose to observe Black History Month by reading books, watching films, and attending performances that highlight African Americans' achievements and contributions.

We may all learn more about the crucial role African Americans have played in our country's history through these activities. By commemorating Black History Month, we recognize the achievements of African Americans both past and present, while also remembering their continuous battle for equality.

Black History Month allows us to reflect on how far we have come in terms of racial progress and to identify areas where we may still make progress toward a more equal society. As we recognize the significance of Black History Month, let us also remember that it is a time for introspection as well as action. Through education, advocacy, and determined efforts, we have the ability to effect change in our communities. We can create a more equitable and inclusive society for everybody by taking concrete actions toward racial justice.

What activities can you participate in to commemorate Black History Month? Here are a few recommendations:

- Discover the history of African Americans in America. You can accomplish this by reading books, watching movies, or attending events at your local library or museum.

- Take part in a conversation regarding current racial justice and Black Lives Matter issues. This could be done online, in person, or with friends and family.

- Contribute to organizations dedicated to the advancement of African Americans. Supporting local businesses owned by people of color, donating money to non-profits, and volunteering for a cause are all examples of this.

- Purchase products from businesses that value diversity and inclusion in their workforce.

- Participate in Black History Month celebrations. Lectures, workshops, film screenings, and other meetings could all fall within this category.

In conclusion, as we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the past and look to the future with hope and determination.

Black History Month allows us to reflect on how far we have come in terms of racial progress and to identify areas where we may still make progress toward a more equal society. 

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In the end, Black History Month is an important part of American history, and it serves as a reminder of the many ways in which African Americans have helped make America what it is today.

It is a time to reflect on the past, assess the present, and look to the future with hope and determination. Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and learn more about their rich history.

By going to events, reading books, supporting businesses owned by African Americans, and speaking up for racial justice, we can make a positive difference in our communities and work toward a better future for everyone.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and pay tribute to the heritage and resilience of African Americans and to recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for equality.


3 Moves Churches Can Make to Thrive Post-COVID

3 Moves Churches Can Make to Thrive Post-COVID

by | Sep 3, 2021 | Christian, Christianity, Church Issues, Current Affairs, Encouragement, Leadership, Mars Hill Baptist Church, Success

Once, there were two pastors: one led a very successful church, while the other was never taken seriously. Neither pastor attended seminary, yet both had risen in ministry to lead their churches for years.

The first pastor led his church through covid-19, and his church is thriving; it has grown exponentially since covid-19, taking in new members. The church is thriving during covid-19 because of this pastor and his leadership team.

The second pastor's church has struggled since covid-19. After Covid, the church dwindled to a small group who sat in an empty sanctuary every Sunday. The church became so small that their attendees decided to meet in a house. Even though this pastor is still leading his church, he is not leading them very well.

Even if we don't want it to, the COVID-19 pandemic crisis is a turning point for the church. The church's aim has not changed. However, execution of that goal varies during COVID-19 and will undoubtedly differ after the epidemic is over.

You can't usually do what you were doing previously in a crisis. The situation requires us to perform the task differently. That's all there is to it. It comes down to a simple choice: will you want to be a pre-COVID-19 church that refuses to recognize the pandemic's potential for innovative ministry or a post-COVID-19 church that views the crisis as an opportunity to revitalize its ministry?

An opportunity not only emphasizes the church's goal — to make disciples — but also calls attention to God's call on our lives. Is God inviting us into something new?

We need to be careful not to transfer nonessential practices from pre-COVID-19 into post-COVID-19, anything that jeopardizes our mission or vision. The church's disruption will be more long-lasting than COVID-19 if we continue engaging in nonessential activities and busyness.

Even if we don't want it to, the COVID-19 pandemic crisis is a turning point for the church.

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What We Do is not as Important as WHY We Do What We Do

As we try to figure out how to function post-Covid, the "why" might disappear amid the endless logistics of moving from old ways of doing church to new. We have to stay focused on the church's original purpose, its mission.

In addition to reminding ourselves about why we do what we do, it would be wise of us to make a list of post-COVID-19 intentions and purposes that are essential for our churches' health. We need to prioritize the list. And then we have to ask ourselves: are these priorities or activities essential?

The importance of the "why" cannot be overstated. Now more than ever, the "why" is crucial. The church is fragile, but its "why" has a long reach. The church's why has staying power.

If the church and pastors are not careful, we will revert back to our old ways of doing church post-pandemic. We do not want that to happen because Covid-19 provides us with a golden opportunity to clarify our mission and explore innovative ways of doing ministry.

If the church and pastors are not careful, we will revert back to our old ways of doing church post-pandemic.

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Remember The Past, Don't Re-live It

Pastors and church leaders who wish to return to the way things were before the pandemic, there is no indication that they have learned any lessons.

Uncertainty is the only sure thing. It's wise to expect the unexpected because we rarely get what we desire. We can be fortunate and figure out why something has occurred. However, the greatest lesson we can take away is that a person may discover a lesson and learn from it, which is preferable to being lucky any day.

Maybe we've been asking the wrong questions all along. We used to rely on in-person worship and small groups before COVID-19.

"When are we going back to in-person services?" "When can we have Sunday school or small groups again?" These are the wrong questions to ask. Instead, we should be asking questions such as:

- How can I serve my community during covid-19?

- What are some innovative forms of ministry that will engage the church?

We need to embrace change and try new things. We have to do what is necessary to adapt to covid-19 circumstances. And then we have to be creative.

Pastors and church leaders who wish to return to the way things were before the pandemic, there is no indication that they have learned any lessons.

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Keep The Main Thing The Main Thing

COVID-19 has given some people an opportunity to rediscover gratitude. Others have learned the significance of generosity and perseverance. But what is the purpose?

Gratitude, generosity, and patience are all lessons taught by the church in response to the crisis. Most churches focus on protecting the community and maintaining the status quo, often at the expense of excluding others. But how can excluding individuals help those who are doing it?

Before the pandemic, making disciples was hard. Why? People use social media and other things to talk about things that are not good for their faith. Keeping the main thing (our mission) is good because it will keep the leaders from being distracted by things that cause division.

COVID-19 has generated new questions about the church, but it is not a crisis in itself. The church was born to keep people focused on Christ during every crisis and challenge. COVID-19 provides an opportunity for the church to reflect on its mission again.

The church's disruption will be more long-lasting than COVID-19 if we continue engaging in nonessential activities and busyness. This pandemic has given some people an opportunity to rediscover gratitude. Others have learned the significance of generosity and perseverance.

God gave us this opportunity to rediscover and uncover what we've taken for granted, such as giving and gratitude. At the heart of it all, you will find mission-focused, Christ-like leaders who possess a deep conviction toward the mission of God.

A new breed of church leader will emerge post-covid-19, able to lead in the power and love of Jesus Christ over all obstacles. They will be mindful about what matters most while enduring hardship so that others also might make it through.

Are there additional moves you see that the church must make in order to thrive post-Covid? 

The church was born to keep people focused on Christ during every crisis and challenge. 

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Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life – Part 3

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life – Part 3

by | Jun 26, 2019 | Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Goals, Self-Leadership, Success

Welcome to the final installment of "Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life". If you haven't already, you can read Part 1 here and Part 2 here. 

Someone once said, "everything that happens in life happens for a reason and lasts a season". I believe that to be true. Looking back, I've learned something from every stage in my life. In fact, life taught me much needed lessons I couldn't have learn elsewhere, while teaching me the power of reflection.

As I age, I'm reflecting more. "Reflection is the most important part of the learning process, and whatever is not reflected is usually not learned and retained", according to Rybo Chen. The only way for us to grow and improve is to take a good look at what’s working and what’s not for us.

So therefore, let's continue the countdown with the third lesson, most people you meet in life are selfish.

Reflection is the most important part of the learning process, and whatever is not reflected is usually not learned and retained. -Rybo Chen

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“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”

Søren Kierkegaard

Why Is The World So Selfish?

Greed is a hard emotion to check. Did you catch that? If you did, then you know why most of the world is selfish.

Why is this world so selfish? Why do some rich and connected people cheat to get their kids into prestigious colleges and universities? Why, in the United States, are there are wider disparities of wealth between rich and poor than any time in history? I'll tell you why, people are inherently selfish.

As a whole, we have all become self-centered. Most of us hardly ever think of others anymore. It has become second nature to think of only ourselves. Unfortunately, most people think the world revolves around them and what makes them happy. 

Yes, there are genuinely generous people, but they are very rare. Most of the people that you meet in your life will only care about themselves. and that's just the way that it is.

I can hear you saying, "wait, I know some people are good in the world" and I agree with you. Yes, some people are, but, as a whole, the majority of people that you're going to meet in life are mainly concerned with themselves. So be aware of that and understand the world is not all butterflies and sunshine.

I love to hear your feedback. Do you agree or disagree that most of the world is selfish? 

Why is the world so selfish? Because greed is a hard emotion to check. 

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“Self-absorption in all its forms kills empathy, let alone compassion.”

Daniel Goleman

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life – Part 2

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life – Part 2

by | Jun 21, 2019 | Empowerment, Accountability, Decisions, Encouragement, Goals, Leadership, Motivation, Quotes, Self-Leadership, Success

Have you ever heard that "Hindsight is 20/20"?

"It's easy to know the right thing to do after something has happened, but it's hard to predict the future".

Like many, I've made many mistakes in life, but I've also learned from those mistakes. If only I would've listened, I could've avoided unnecessary setbacks. I would do some things differently if I could go back. Hindsight is 20/20.

If you're a teenager, in your early 20s, 30s, or 40s, or if you're just young at heart, I promise you will want to read this 3-part series, and can save yourself from the mistakes that most people make and regret for the rest of their lives. If you haven't read Part 1, you can read it here. 

Let's continue the countdown with the sixth lesson, every action has consequences.

6. Every Action Has Consequences

As I age, I'm discovering how wise my father was. As a kid, he would remind me that every action/decision has intended and unintended consequences. Intended consequences are the outcomes we directly see as a result of our actions. But, unintended consequences are the outcomes we do not directly see. They are delayed consequences. 

What's The Point?

Just because you don't immediately see the consequences (mostly unintended) of your actions doesn't mean they're not happening. You can't see wind either. You can, however, see the consequences of the wind. 

There are intended and unintended consequences for all of our decisions. Sometimes they take years to realize. Let's continue with the countdown with the fifth lesson, time is a nonrenewable resource.

Just because you don't immediately see the consequences of your actions doesn't mean they're not happening.

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"Nobody ever did, or ever will, escape the consequences of his choices."
Alfred A. Montapert

5. Time is a Nonrenewable Resource

"A nonrenewable resource is a resource of economic value that cannot be readily replaced by natural means on a level equal to its consumption. Most fossil fuels, such as oil, natural gas and coal are considered nonrenewable resources", according to Investopedia. 

Like the aforementioned, time is a nonrenewable resource. It cannot be readily replaced by natural means.  What does that mean? You only have RIGHT NOW! 

You only have right now. Whatever you're doing this second, you'll never get that second back. So, you want to make sure that you capitalize on all of the time that you do have and make sure you realize that being alive and healthy is a gift.

Moreover, you want to take advantage of that and live life to your truest potential. Why? You're never going to get the time back that you you know are experiencing right now.

Remember to do more of whatever makes you happy. Why? Eventually, we're all going to run out of time, and that's just the truth of the matter.

Let's conclude today's post with the countdown with the fourth lesson, everything is temporary. 

Time is a nonrenewable resource. It cannot be readily replaced by natural means.

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"Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life."

Steve Jobs

4. Everything is Temporary

Everything is temporary and comes to an end. Wow, that's pretty dark, huh?

This lesson isn't meant to be dark, it's meant to wake you up! I don't want to sound fatalistic, but, everything comes to an end. I had lots of friends in high school and college. But, today, other than Facebook, I barely see or talk to them anymore.

I'm not mad at anyone and hopefully, no one's mad at me. People move on with their lives. They get married, move to different places, and it becomes difficult to stay in contact with them.  So, be aware of the fact that things change and that everything is temporary.

Embrace people in the moment. Don't take the relationships you have today for granted. Love the people around you while enjoying their presence. Be happy that you have that time with them now!

Why? Because everything is temporary and all good things come to an end! Take advantage of  now and live in the present moment.

I trust you found value in today's post and I'd love to hear your feedback on what lessons you've learned. 

Everything is temporary and comes to an end.

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“The only permanent thing in this life is that everything is temporary.”
Author Unknown

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life

by | Jun 19, 2019 | Empowerment, Accountability, Decisions, Encouragement, Excellence, Goals, Motivation, Quotes, Self-Leadership, Success, Vision

In 2005, Steve Jobs, founder of Apple Computer gave the Commencement Speech at Stanford University. Hidden in that speech is a powerful quote that resonates.

He said, “You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life”.

The idea behind this quote is that, as much as we try to plan our lives ahead in advance, there’s always something that’s completely unpredictable about life that teaches needed lessons. Unfortunately, people wait too long before learning those needed lessons.  In today’s post, I’m sharing three of the nine lessons that people learn too late in life.  

If you're a teenager, in your early 20s, 30s, or 40s, or if you're just young at heart, I promise you will want to read this 3-part series, and can save yourself from the mistakes that most people make and regret for the rest of their lives. Let's begin the countdown with the ninth lesson, people will criticize you.

“You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future..."

- Steve Jobs -

9.  People Will Criticize Me, So What?

Regardless of who you are, someone will criticize you. The fear of criticism kills momentum and gets in the way of creating the life that you want. If you're afraid what other people say and think about you, you might as well stay inside and give up now.

Remember this: The more successful you become, the more haters you’ll attract. It’s like that, and that’s the way it is. So, you have to decide who do you want to be. Do you want to live and become your friend, your parents, or somebody else?  

Or, do you want to live and create your own life? Remember, don't be afraid of criticism, do the things that you want to do, and live the life that you want to live. Let's continue with the countdown with the eighth lesson, you are responsible for your own happiness.

Remember this: The more successful you become, the more haters you’ll attract. 

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8. I Am Responsible For Creating My Own Happiness

Guess what? Happiness is your choice. Unfortunately, a lot of people think that happiness is something that some people have and some don't. But, the truth is, happiness is YOUR choice.

Here are two important truths I’ve discovered about happiness:

  1. Happiness is not an easy choice.
  2. It takes a daily work to be happy.

What does progress have to do with happiness? Happiness comes from making progress. If you're making progress towards your goals, you're going to experience happiness. Unfortunately, many people don't learn this until too late in life. Additionally, they may complain about getting the short end of the stick and choose to remain unhappy.

If you want to experience happiness, you have to take consistent daily action towards choosing happiness. Let's conclude today's countdown with the seventh lesson, be yourself.

Happiness comes from making progress. If you're making progress towards your goals, you're going to experience happiness. 

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“Don’t rely on someone else for your happiness and self-worth. Only you can be responsible for that.” 

- Stacey Charter -

7. Be You - Do You

I once heard someone say, “why be a cheap copy when you can be a great original”? 

Unfortunately, too many people wait too long to learn this valuable lesson. If you don’t have a firm grip on who you are, you’ll be tempted to borrow and live someone else’s life. 

Furthermore, many people (parents, friends, associates, colleagues, etc.) have opinions on who you should be. In fact, they’re willing to offer their unsolicited advice. The sooner you're  your own person, the sooner that you're happy with that person. Take Oscar Wilde's advice, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken". 

I trust you found value in today's post and I'd love to hear your feedback on what lessons you've learned. 


”You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."

- Maya Angelou-

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