Category: Publisher’s Letter

November 2018, Publisher's Letter

Our Last Print Edition, Final Publishers Letter

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We have been so thrilled to get to serve our community for 43 amazing editions of Baton Rouge Christian Life Magazine. Our goal to change the world, one story at a time has been successful and effective.

It’s been my personal pleasure to have the opportunity to share many stories of everyday people who have stepped into God’s call for their life and found God to be Faithful and True. Some of these stories have changed my life, so I know they’ve changed others, perhaps even yours.

There is nothing more powerful than sharing what God has done in your life. Sharing your own experience of the Living Christ with others is the most powerful opportunity God’s people have to spread the gospel effectively in today’s sound-bite society. While many in the world today may shun the validity of the Bible, it’s difficult to debate what God has done in your life.

What if a hurting person heard someone boldly testify of God’s goodness: “Because of the love of God, my marriage made it through a tough season.” Or, “When I prayed to the Lord Jesus in a moment of despair, I was able to begin my road to recovery from addiction.” So many need to hear this. “Because of the cross, I’ve been totally forgiven of…..adultery, abortion, promiscuity, lying, cheating, gossip, jealousy, the list goes on.” Or another big one: “God has given me a new identity and a sense of purpose.” One of my favorites is: “I was lost, and now I’m found. Jesus met me at my lowest point in my life and accepted me at my lowest.”

The world is hungry for authentic faith and a road map to fulfillment. Many are hurting and even more feel isolated and lonely. Because of this, many great people are wondering how to change the world via some vibrant ministry or large platform that offers significant opportunity. While that is a great goal, it’s in the everyday that we can have the most notable impact.

The real opportunity is right in front of us! So close we’ve missed it more times than we can count! Too often, we believe the continual cycle of bad news and too quickly fall prey to believing there is nothing you or I can do.

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) says it best: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” In whom is your hope? In this world that shuns God altogether? In our government? In material possessions? If so, you have already been disappointed.

Believing in Jesus makes your life better, and He makes you better at life. His earthly plan was to offer all we needed to have a right relationship with our Father and Creator. God sent his Son Jesus to save our souls and offer eternal life. He fills us with His life, His Holy Spirit, so that we don’t have to wonder what to do next. We just ask, listen patiently, and then let Him lead.

It sounds so simple because it is! Jesus modeled a clearly communicated plan of salvation and way of life. The Bible is God’s love letter to help instruct us to a better way of life. Yet in our culture we have invited chaos and confusion by allowing so much hatred and division when the Bible clearly calls us to unity in Christ.

Coming together is the way to build a strong foundation that lasts. First at home, then in our churches and communities. That is clear in Mark 3:25 (NIV) “If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” No wonder so many families are falling apart. We start by being one with the One and then one with others.

Thank you for reading! We will continue to publish online and will keep our social media sites active and updated. As we shift the way we reach the world one story at a time, stay tuned!

October 2018, Publisher's Letter

Back to the Basics – Publisher’s Letter

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Publisher’s letter, Back to the Basics

Did you know our Publisher is also a professional speaker? www.bethtownsend.com, beth@bethtownsend.com

Do you ever feel frozen in time? As if somehow paralyzed from making a decision just so you don’t make a wrong one? This would describe the recent season in my life. Day after day it’s like I’m wrestling with the same things. With many decisions needing to be made, I’ve found myself thinking and re-thinking just about everything. Many things have changed as a whole at work and at home. As a result, I’ve been trying to decide how that affects my daily routines as well as my long term goals.

 

Then I recall one of my pastors from years back saying some familiar phrases that could always cut to the chase. “Let’s remember to keep the main thing the main thing.” That meant get back to Jesus instead of what committee should do what. “Let’s major in the majors.” That meant let go of little things that in the scheme of things really didn’t matter.

 

That was his way of bringing into focus what needed to be our focus. While this concept is easier said than done, there are times when getting back to the basics is the easiest way to energize our faith and remember the Foundation on which we are called to stand.

 

My “Back to the Basics” list:

 

Facts Over Feelings: Jeremiah 17:9 (NIV) “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” This is perhaps the hardest of all. To remember that my heart can lead me astray seems contradictory to everything. My feelings can seem so worthy in the moment. Yet it is in those moments that I must remember “facts over feelings.” In other words, instead of worrying (feelings), I can recall Philippians 4 (facts) which says not to worry about anything, but to pray about everything. It’s my job as a Believer to make that shift to Trust God instead of my own frustrated feelings.

 

Go to my go-to’s: There are several Scriptures that have truly become life for me. We should all have our list of promises on which we stand, no matter what is happening around us. These are the ones that bring comfort, clarity and calm to the chaos. A few of mine are Psalm 91, Psalm 23, Psalm 121, Psalm 90:17, Luke 10:19, Romans 12, Philippians 4, Ephesians 1 & 2. There are many others. What are yours?

 

One with the One:  Often I think Satan, our adversary, uses the things we use most to distract us, our phones and calendars. Do you hear that subtle message daily? “Do this, too. Go there, today. Don’t forget that. You don’t have time for quiet time.”  Are you too busy? I’d assume we are all too busy. But Jesus was intentional about everything. And when chaos surrounded him, that is when he found solitude with His Father. He knew he needed to be One with the One. Nothing or no one ever tempted him away from that part of His earthly life.

 

We all need a personalized list of how to get back to the basics. My list won’t work for you, as it’s based on my tendencies and temptations. How about making your own? As we close in on the holiday season, let’s be intentional by protecting our path on purpose.

 

Join me? Let’s get back to the Basics and Trust the Lord to meet us with a new agenda.

 

Publisher's Letter, September 2018, Uncategorized

Publisher’s Letter, Christian Media Gains Momentum, Part 1

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Beth enjoyed learning about Christian Media from one of the industries biggest stars, T. C. Stallings.
Beth was inspired by the amazing story of Michelle Duffie of D3 Entertainment, stay tuned for more next month.
Dr. Cameron Lewis has been such an amazing influence in helping us to learn more about the ‘behind the scenes’ in ‘A Question of Faith’ and other faith-based films.
Dove Award Winner Amber Thompson Nelon shared with Beth about her breakout role as an actress in her first movie, “A Question of Faith.’

Christian Media Gains Momentum: Part One

It’s easy to get discouraged as a Christian. Often secular news stories cause us to cringe with messages that God is out of style and that the Bible is out of date. Christianity on the surface appears to be dying a slow death.

Not so fast!

In our next couple of editions, we are going to share some encouraging news about measurable trends in Christian media! God is calling all kinds of people from various backgrounds to utilize multi-media platforms that point others to Christ and bring God glory. We are thankful to have some of those amazing Believers share with us so that we can share with you.

We are encouraged to see so many people stepping into positions that God is using mightily to reach the nations with movies, televisions shows and other forms of media. We love this especially because, in publishing our magazine each month, we have always felt that the best way to change the world is one story at a time.

I still recall being wowed by the movie “Facing the Giants” in 2006. It is a great movie that still moves me today with such imperfect people following a perfect God who proves Himself very much alive and active in the lives of his children. Since then, we have seen many faith-based movies become very successful in the box office and in DVD Sales. One thing always rings true: there is just nothing like a great story that is based in truth and reality, and communicates a sound message of Faith.

Another great story that can change the world just may be your testimony. When is the last time you shared how God had intervened in your life or answered a prayer? As a testimony-driven magazine, we’ve seen how the power of personal stories brings real hope to others each month.

Yet, even the boldest Christians tend to shy away from sharing their stories. “I’m waiting for the right time…I’m going to write it down…I need to practice…I don’t know what part to share and when…I’m afraid of what others will think.”

Good news! We are sponsoring a testimony workshop in October. If you’d like to learn to share your story effectively, we suggest attending. My husband Fred and I attended a class in Dallas, and we were very moved by the quality of the teaching. We were inspired to be more intentional about preparing and sharing our testimonies on a regular basis. Check out pages 20 and 21 for more information.

We are going to share more about Media in our next edition. Our goal is to remind others that if we are going to craft a message to share with others, we must do so with excellence and take proper time to make it great. Therefore, we will share the experience of accomplished experts so that Believers learn the most effective ways to share content that is encouraging and inspiring.

Changing the world, one story at a time. Join us! Share yours, too.

Beth enjoys a prescreening of “War Room’ at Istrouma Baptist Church with Hilton Glass of Movies Ministries Outreach and Pastor Mark Lubbock of Gulf South Men.
Director Kevan Otto shared about the rise in Faith-based films.
Amber Thompson Nelon, Publisher Beth Townsend, and Videographer Rachel Boster enjoyed visiting with with so many media experts at the weekend event benefitting Mississippi Centers for Autism in July.
August 2018, Publisher's Letter

Knowledge is Power

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Publisher Beth Townsend

Knowledge is Power, by Publisher Beth Townsend

People-watching can be an excellent teacher. Recently while working out at the YMCA, I noticed in my peripheral vision a young man preparing for his workout. He racked not one, not two, but three huge weights. Just looking at that bar made me hurt. He wasn’t very big, so I couldn’t help but watch as his activity unfolded.

He walked around the weights, appearing to psych himself up. Once mentally ready, he reached down to lift. No can do. Not going to happen. Leaving them on the floor, he took a longer walk around, turned his music up, danced a bit and tried again. No can do. Another failed attempt. Now I’m hooked, silently rooting for the poor guy but realizing somehow, scientifically, this mathematical equation just does not add up. His third try, after more music and walking, attempting to muster up whatever it was going to take to lift those weights, he fails again. His body language said it all. No more walks. Sagging shoulders. He quietly unpacks the weights, puts them away and leaves. No more pep in his step. He’s defeated, sadly by himself.

Pressure and anxiety are often self-imposed by trying to do too much too quickly. As Christians, patience is necessary in living by faith. While life can be demanding, we must carefully guard against rushing ahead of God’s plan. Pushing towards our potential produces growth. However, we must choose to trust the pace of our circumstances in God’s hands as he grows us into who we can become.

It would be my bet that the guy from the Y struggled the rest of that day. Why didn’t he just reduce the weights and try again? Because he had set his sights too high. The real defeat was present before he racked his weights. Only he couldn’t see it.

As Believers, we must pursue our passion while trusting God with our purpose. Getting ahead of God is much like trying to lift weights that are beyond our strength. It is only in His strength and timing that we can accomplish great things.

Is Knowledge Power? Yes!

That is especially true for those who have invited God into their lives through Christ. We have the spirit of God at work in our lives by way of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, our knowledge is to be based on trust that God is at work in our lives to bring about His will.

That Knowledge is Indeed Power!

July 2018, Publisher's Letter

Are you a Door or a Door Mat? Publisher’s Letter

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Serving Others…. Are you a door or a doormat?

The truth is, it made me mad. Here I was in church, looking to be encouraged by the sermon. As the worship ended, our pastor stood up and made a statement I’ll never forget. You could have heard a pin drop in the huge auditorium. “Do you want to know how to improve the most difficult relationships in your life?” The crowd was on the edge of their seats. We were all leaning in to take detailed notes. Yes! Yes! We want to know how to improve the most difficult relationships in our lives! “Serve ‘em.”

Really? Is that it? Is that all? Please tell me there is more! That is not what I wanted to hear, likely the sentiment of the thousands of other people who filled the room. He went on to explain that Jesus washed the disciples’ feet at one of his darkest hours. There was a plot to kill him, and he knew his earthly time was coming to an end. Regardless of Jesus’ state-of-reality, this radical act of service demonstrated the full extent of his love for them. Jesus even said in John 13:14-15, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher have washed your feet, you should also wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

Wow! Jesus didn’t say wash the feet of those worthy of foot washing. He didn’t say wash the feet of those who were in right standing with you. Nor did he say, “Wait until they deserve it.” There is little argument that serving someone quickly softens a situation where tension could otherwise erode relationships.

There were times in my life where, even though I was angry with someone, one kind act of service changed my attitude and quickly shifted me to a more compassionate position. Not because of the other party, but because in that moment I chose to obey Jesus. There is no better invitation for the hand of Jesus to intervene than when we choose to obey His Word.

There were also times when I ignored this life lesson and just let my anger have its say. Bitter words and ugly attitudes can quickly fester and bring about doubt and fear. Cold silence can be just as hurtful. It’s a tool of our enemy and can allow disobedience to wreak havoc and usher in often unnecessary suffering. Perfectly good relationships have ended over poor communication and misinterpreted feelings.

One of my most personal struggles is this very battle: serve or say. I’m a proponent of clear communication and dealing with what needs to be dealt with. There are frequently times when productive conversations are needed. To clarify and reach agreement with a kind approach is an effective way to strengthen a relationship. What I’m trying to articulate here is that we don’t become door mats, we become doors. Better relationships, based in truth and wisdom, are often born out of someone who humbled themselves in an effort to serve that relationship into health and often happiness.

Jesus sets the example. It’s up to us to choose. Will you serve others?

Beth with Founding Advertiser Karl Weber of PBC Industrial Pipe
Beth with this month’s Feature story, BRPD Chief Murphy Paul
Beth with Witness at Work feature and advertisers Andy Bishop
Beth with Sharon F. Bailey delivering June magazines
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June 2018, Publisher's Letter

Publishers Letter, Trinity is Truth! Enjoy…

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Publisher’s Letter, Trinity is Truth


The Trinity is Truth.

It was a refreshing revelation. Suddenly, during an otherwise normal day, I looked back over my life and realized an amazing truth. I really am a new Creation in Christ!

In my head I knew I’d been “born again” at the point of salvation. Yet over time as I yielded to the process of change, I began to see evidence of real spiritual growth. A recent devotional helped to put this into words. Writing of the multi-million-dollar market of self-help books sold each year, Dr. Charles Stanley reminded us to understand that our identity in Christ is not about self-help or self-improvement, but about self-replacement.

In my life, self-replacement has been a gradual process. I’m guessing for many it’s more of an instant transformation, but for me it’s been about learning to trust the Lord one day at a time, growing each day.

My early life had some major hurdles. I had no choice but to learn a fierce sense of independence in order to survive. In those environments I learned to take care of myself at a young age. That worked well for a long time, which is part of the problem. With little education and experience, I was able to work my way into a career and be somewhat successful.

I rededicated my life to Jesus when I became a new wife and mom years later. Though I’d been “saved,” I’d never truly committed my life to Christ. My family would need God, and I wasn’t going to attempt life without doing my part to invite Him into our family.

I’d like to say since then life has been easy. Quite the contrary! Yet over the years, week after week, month after month and year after year, I’ve leaned on God and He has been faithful to help me stand when I could not on my own. Because of the experience of God working in my life, my understanding of the importance of the Trinity went from head knowledge to heart knowledge over time.

God the Father. My earthly father was not a man who took care of his family and honored his marital covenant with his wife, my mother. His early decisions wreaked havoc in our family. So, to believe in God the Father as a loving and perfect father meant letting go of who my dad was not, in order to receive God the Father, for He is the perfect father to the fatherless.

Jesus the Son. Receiving Jesus into my heart meant salvation and an eternal home with God. This finally settled that, “If I died tonight would I go to heaven?” question. It also meant forgiveness of sins, which were countless and created so much shame in my life. By reading the Bible consistently, I met a loving Jesus and finally understood the power of the Cross. He is my Savior who cleansed my life from my sins.

The Holy Spirit. We have the spirit of God living within us! Conversely, we also have a spirit of self-living within us. My “spirit of self” was very strong and stubborn. Still is at times. But I now understand the choice that I must make every day. A wise man once told me, “You can’t lead and be led.” Trusting God to lead my life through the Holy Spirit means to let Him be my counselor and guide, giving me the wisdom to take my life in the specific direction of His will and not my own.

The reason I know I’m a new creation in Christ is because I can look back and see where I once was and where I am now. While I’m a work in progress, I thank God for His provision.

In the Trinity is the Truth we can Trust.

May 2018, Publisher's Letter

Beth’s Publishers Letter, May

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Publisher’s Letter May 2018

 

Identity…. Crisis or Craving?

 

This month’s “Identity” theme can create a lot of confusion in the world of Christianity.

 

Simply Googling “Identity in Christ” yields 15,600,000 results. That is multi-million e-searching for one of life’s most important questions!

 

While the internet has its place, this can create a lot of unnecessary confusion. Most of the search results came from well-known Christian speakers and authors who have taught on the topic of identity in Christ. While often inspiring, wouldn’t it be better if we read the Bible to allow God to shape our individual identity? If they had a revelation from God, we can too.

 

There is a phrase I recall from my pastor that stirred deep in my heart: “Read the Word; let it do its job.” Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

 

If the Bible is a living document that penetrates every part of our body, then we must read it for ourselves, trusting it to minister to the depths of our being. As we read, it changes us and aligns our heart with His will for our life. God wants to speak to each of His children individually through reading and meditating on His Word.

 

Earlier this year I was cleaning out a closet and found 61 completed Bible study work books. While I could view that as an accomplishment, I found one study I’d completed three times, workbooks completed to prove it, yet did not recall the study! My question quickly became: What would have happened if in all of those hours of study, I had just sat with my Bible, a journal, a quiet space and God?

Please don’t misunderstand my message. I attend church weekly and am also in a Bible study group as well as a community group that meets weekly. Those environments nurture my soul and deepen my relationship with God and others. But when I need to know what God has to say to me about decisions in my life, I need time with Him to read the Bible and wait on His spirit. If Jesus, the son of God, set aside large chunks of time to seek God and find quiet, shouldn’t we?

 

Our identity is intimately unique and can’t be compared with others. That is why having a few anchor Scriptures is key to remembering who we truly are when challenges come. Here are some of my favorite scripture promises: I am bold and stouthearted (Psalm 138:3); He will surround me with angels (Psalm 91:11); He delivers me from trouble (Psalm 34:6); I am free indeed (John 8:36); My cup overflows (Proverbs 3:10); I have the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:30); Be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:6); I’m forgiven of all my sins (Colossians 2:13); I have the peace of Christ (Colossians 3:15); I have strong faith (Hebrews 11); My calling in Christ is secure (2 Peter 1:10); I am an overcomer (1 John 3:4); God hears and answers my prayers (1 John 5:14, 15). There are many promises of God, and all are worthy of our complete trust.

 

Do you have an identity crisis? Recognize your craving to seek intimacy with our Creator.

Beth’s favorite job is that of wife, mom, and “BB” to her granddaughter Nessa
Beth with her son Rhett, an LSU Sophomore
Beth with her 82 year old mom, Aimee
Beth with her 23 year old daughter and granddaughter Nessa
Beth and Fred at and LSU Baseball game
April 2018, Publisher's Letter

Publisher’s Letter, April 2018

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Pub letter April 2018 – Happy Anniversary to Us!

Happy anniversary to us!

Seems like just yesterday I was looking for people who believed strongly enough in the concept of a local Christian magazine to buy an ad for their church or business. And guess what? God went ahead of me and softened the hearts of just enough “Founding Advertisers” to launch our first magazine in April 2015.

Prior to that, I had to design a business plan. After seeking several rounds of approval through those I consider to be “wise counsel,” I moved forward with the idea that Good News and personal testimonies of God’s faithfulness would help change our city one story at a time.

After being the jack-of-all-trades those first few months, a team of wonderful people with great talent began to join my efforts. Suddenly, I had people coming along side me, using their gifts and talents, joining the vision of bringing Unity to the Body of Christ in our Capitol City. Many volunteered countless hours to help us learn and grow each month.

Since that time, we have published 36 editions! I can hardly believe it. I’m not going to pretend it’s been easy. Quite the contrary. When you go into ministry, you go into battle. Yet God has been faithful to provide just what we needed right when we needed it. While there have been obstacles and roadblocks, He has seen us through each barrier.

You will notice changes this month: some new looks, a couple of new teammates and our favorite of all, a new printer! One of my goals from the beginning was to use all local people. But for printing we had to look out of state for the type of press required. However, since the flood, Baton Rouge Press has installed new equipment, and starting this month we are keeping our business right here at home. We are excited to partner with them.

You are in for a treat this month! With Easter and a theme of forgiveness, you’ll be encouraged when you read our feature story about Troy and Tracy Duhon. Did you know the “God’s Not Dead” series was birthed here in Louisiana? There are good things happening in our city and state, and we are thankful to have the fabulous job of sharing the positive side of our city. Many other inspiring stories will encourage you to go deeper in your faith, think about the freedom of forgiveness and help us learn to Trust God more with our lives.

Happy Easter, He is Risen! Matthew 28:6 says, “He is not here, He has risen, just as He said.” His miraculous resurrection is for each of us. Not only to forgive us for our sins, but to be renewed with His life in us. John 14:20 says that He will live in us! What a transformational truth.

If you haven’t yet, invite Jesus into your life. Let him lead you into a life of purpose, wisdom and eternal salvation. No matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, He will meet you where you are. Don’t wait until you “have it all together.” None of us will ever be worthy of His presence. But God sent his only Son so that we may experience the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ and live in the fullness of the Holy Spirit.

Join us in changing the world, one story at a time. Happy Easter!

Beth with team interviewing March feature Kirk Cameron
Beth with members of Radio Bible Courses, Ltd.
Beth with Founding Advertiser Karl Weber of PBC Industrial Supplies, Inc.
Beth with BREC Superintendent Carolyn McKnight
Beth with Alonzo Young, February Feature story
Beth with Founding Advertiser Bill Peters of Peters Wealth Advisors, LLC
Beth with East Baton Rouge Library team Mary Stein and Kayla Perkins
Publisher Beth Townsend
March 2018, Publisher's Letter

March 2018 Publisher’s LETTER

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March Publisher’s LETTER

Wow! This month’s Word theme of Reflection stirs a great deal of emotion! As we look forward to our three-year anniversary in April, it’s with great thanksgiving to the Lord and several others for our journey thus far.

Looking back. It’s hard to believe we published our first edition in April 2015. So many didn’t believe we could do this. Yet God is faithful and went before us. He provided generous advertisers to come along beside us. He helped us 

to assemble a team of wonderful people with great talent. The stories of God at work in the lives of His people are never-ending. We are honored and thrilled to get to hear these amazing stories every month. God is at work in our city.
Looking over. Much has been learned over these years. I could say a lot about the trials along the way. The criticism, the challenges, and those who seek to discourage our efforts have been difficult. Yet so many of you offer words of encouragement! There are even those who have supported our ministry with monetary gifts at just the right moment of need. Many who purchase ads often do so because they not only want to bring attention to their businesses, but they believe in our efforts to bring Unity to our Body of Believers in our city. God is at work in our city.
Looking up. Our goal is to bring glory to God and unity to the Christians in our city.  1 Corinthians 12:14 (KJV) is our mission statement. “For the body is not one member, but many.” We are called to be One and we are called to One Another. Together we can do great things to expand the Kingdom of God and help others come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It is by working together that we see the Power of God move mightily in our midst.

Looking forward. Change is coming! In April, you will see change. Our team is collaborating to see how we can improve, grow and learn from our experience and also learn from others. If you’d like to offer suggestions, please do. Do you know of great stories that need to be told? Let us know! beth@bethtownsend.com Share on our free Calendar of Events news@brclm.com. Follow us on social media!

Join us on Face book https://www.facebook.com/BatonRougeChristianLifeMagazine, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/brclifemagazine/, and Twitter https://twitter.com/brclife. Our goal is to provide “Good News” to our city and encourage one another.

We thank you for reading, for encouraging, for advertising and for sharing your stories. We are humbled to get to do what we do. We ask you to pray for our team and the work before us – that we bring the glory due His name.

We are changing the world, one story at a time.
As I reflect, I praise the Lord for what He has done.

signbeth

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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February 2018, Publisher's Letter

February 2018 Publisher’s LETTER

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february Publisher’s LETTER

Introducing…’Words of the Word’

One of the most powerful tools in the world is perhaps the most underutilized. Words.

The first chapter of Genesis is the story of Creation. One of the key phrases is “And God said…” He created this most amazing world by speaking. “Let there be…” Also in Genesis, we read how God created man in his own image. If God spoke the world into existence with His words and created us in his image, what does that say about our words? Our words have tremendous power.

Because of this transformational Truth, we will spend this year focusing on ‘Words of the Word’ This month’s word is Intimacy. Since “love is in the air” in February, we felt it would be fitting to go deeper and talk about the depth of God’s love for us and our love for one another. “No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.” (1 (John 4:12 ESV).

Each month, our theme word will reflect one of our team member’s favorites. While planning the year, each has carefully picked one special word that had deep meaning to them. That person will write about what they have chosen and why it is important in their life. We know you will enjoy hearing from our various team members each month!

As publisher, my goal for our monthly magazine has been to bring unity to our Body of Christ. Can you imagine how we could affect our city if we were all working together, somehow on the same page for the same reason at the same time? While we attend different churches of various denominations, we can come together and support one another. One way we can do that is to commit to using our words as tools to bring change and help others to grow in their faith.

Some words to consider:

Encourage: It takes very little to encourage another. Speaking kind words is always good, but speaking life means reminding others to reflect and see God at work in their life. “Let’s pray about this. Ask the Lord to lead you about that. Let’s find a Scripture for guidance before you make that decision. What if you wait until you hear from the Lord before you make that life change? May I pray with you now?” Those simple statements or questions can usher God’s power immediately into any situation.

Equip: Remind others that God has a purpose for them. Even in the hard places, He is at work bringing about His will. Our world rushes people into quick decisions, yet our faith is most often deepened when we choose to wait on God. Equip others by reminding them to listen for God’s voice above the noise of the world and the voices of others. Waiting on God can often help others avoid making catastrophic decisions.

Engage: Great conversations don’t just happen. It takes intentionality. Good eye contact and body language help initiate depth and authenticity. Listen more and speak less. Converse with one another, listen for the Holy Spirit to move as you seek to hear Him more. He promises to be our Helper! Let him truly help by inviting Him in to every conversation and trusting Him to guide and nudge our hearts into alignment with His will.

Words? How we use them can change everything! Join us this year as we commit to using them to encourage, equip and engage one another more intimately.

signbeth

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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January 2018, Publisher's Letter

January 2018 Publisher’s LETTER

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january Publisher’s LETTER

Happy New Year!

There is nothing like a fresh start! The New Year offers a chance to establish goals, resurrect dreams, and bring new habits to life.

While many will be listing resolutions, we are focusing on “revelations.” A resolution means “a firm decision to do or not do something.” Revelation means “the divine or

 supernatural disclosure to humans of something relating to human existence or the world.”

Resolutions means you decide something. Revelation means God reveals something.

Years ago, in separate incidents, I experienced a home invasion and a bank robbery, both at gunpoint. Needless to say, I lived afraid for decades! My nightly ritual to create a safe environment was exhausting. Noises in the night kept me awake for years.

After a season with a counselor, I learned about Psalm 91. I read it over and over and memorized it. Finally, one glorious day, I believed it! It became a Revelation. Suddenly those promises took hold of my heart and I began to understand the healing process. It took persistence to keep reading while God was working in the depths of my frightened soul. There is no other way to renew our minds and heal our hearts than meditating on His Word.

This revelation became a miracle. Finally grasping the power of the Word, it created a hunger for more Truth. Seeking the Bible for answers to life’s questions became a new way of life and continues to this day.

This year’s personal revelation has been about waiting on God. Lord knows we are an impatient people! And yes, I fall quickly into that category. Let’s consider a few new habits that may help us gain “revelation” from God and less resolution from ourselves.

1. Slow down physically. I’m a busy bee, known for my energy, and I thank God for it. But in order to hear from God and gain Godly direction for our lives, we must earnestly seek Him. While I’m a big believer in drive-by prayers, I also know that being in God’s will means I’m sitting at His feet, often on my knees, poring over His Word while listening for the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

2. Slow down mentally. For me “rest” often means mental. If I’m sitting and my mind is laboring and spinning, there is nothing restful about it. The only way I’ve found to rest mentally is to repeat out loud a few anchoring Scriptures, cry out honestly to the Lord, and ask Him to help me to calm down the clamoring noise in my mind. He is our helper! 

3. Slow down spiritually.  There is no quick fix to grow in our faith. This is the area that can be most dangerous to our intimate relationship with our loving Creator. God works in us at his pace and according to His will. Yet the more we submit and surrender to him, the quicker the process.  As we seek to slow down our bodies and minds, we must say out loud over and over. “Lord, your will. Nothing more, nothing less, nothing else.”  Daily surrender is key to remembering who is in control.

Regardless of what our culture says, we can’t do it all. Therefore, why not do the one thing that elicits calm and brings clarity to an otherwise impossible schedule? Only God can reveal truth because He is Truth. He created you and me with a plan for our lives. His promise is not only to reveal that plan, but to bring it about Himself (Romans 8:28). We can trust Him with our lives.

Happy New Year! May your New Year’s “Revelations” lead to miracles in 2018

signbeth

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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Publisher Beth Townsend
December 2017, Publisher's Letter

Publisher’s LETTER

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December Publisher’s LETTER

Christmas is in the Air!

The fireplace was blazing with a roaring fire, our family of seven huddled around. We were excited it was finally Christmas Eve! “We need to put the fire out,” I exclaimed loudly. Probably around 7 or 8 years old, I wondered why I was the only one worried. The smoke, the fire. It was almost bedtime and I needed to know Santa was safe to visit and would have no trouble coming down our chimney.

That Christmas was the last time I recall our family being together. My memories of life in that house are foggy. Often even when I see pictures, the rooms don’t look familiar. It’s like when we moved away, I left the memories behind. Shortly after that time our parents divorced and things became confusing and chaotic. Suddenly we were a single mom with five young kids.

Why this memory seems so vivid is telling. Regardless of everything else, we believed in Christmas. It was a magical time. Even the gifts under the tree multiplied each year. We didn’t have much money, but we knew Christmas always offered an opportunity to have unrealistic expectations for one amazing morning each and every year. There was truly something in the air that gave way to a bountiful hope and opportunity to dream big dreams.

It was years later when I realized that kind of Hope has a name. When Jesus came into my life, I was able to look back and see His omnipotent presence over all those lost years. Wow! Now that we siblings are grown and can look back, we clearly see Jesus. God’s hand was upon us when we didn’t even know it. Thank you Lord.

Christmas is in the air. It’s not the decorations. It’s not the music. It’s not Santa. While we can participate in the many sights and sounds of the season, it’s Jesus we feel. That hope. That joy. That undeniable wonder of the child within all of us.

There’s an amazing song by Steven Curtis Chapman that sums up the depth of what Christmas really means. “Believe the unbelievable, receive the inconceivable. And see beyond my wildest imagination. Lord, I come with great expectations.”

The spirit of Christmas is the spirit of Jesus. He is the savior of the world and enters as a baby in a manger. He longs to enter each and every heart that will invite him in. He loves like no other and receives us as we are and promises to make us who He created us to be.

Jesus. He is the gift we give and the gift we receive. Receive Him fully, share Him boldly.

Happy birthday Lord Jesus. Happy birthday.

Merry Christmas!

signbeth

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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November 2017, Publisher's Letter

November Publisher’s LETTER

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November Publisher’s LETTER

“It’s easy when it’s easy. The test comes when it’s hard.”

That was a common phrase when my children were young. I’d often remind them of that when dropping them off at school. Doing the right thing is easy when it’s easy, but for those moments in the battle, real strength comes in the heat of decision and in the face of temptation.

Such is the case with gratitude. When things are going well, we are happy campers. Yet when we
face difficulty, it can seem so unrealistic to “give thanks” in all circumstances. Yet God’s Word is specific. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus for you.”

Really? Seems there should be some exceptions. Aren’t we allowed some modification in
certain circumstances? Yet again the Bible is clear. Philippians 2:14 says, “Do all things without
grumbling or disputing.”

These two commands can convict my heart like no other! How would my life be different if
I just did what the Word said? If I “gave thanks” more and “quit complaining,” then I would be
stepping in the middle of God’s plan for my life. It’s an easy way to fall short of God’s plan or
align myself with His plan by being obedient, especially when it’s hard.

What good is the Bible if we don’t read it and do what it says? It’s for our own protection that God
sent His Word. It’s not so we live in chains bound to rules and regulations. It’s so we can do what
He says and live His perfect plan for our lives. It shapes our attitudes and conforms our heart and
words to align with His will for us as His precious and beloved children.

For what are you thankful? I’m thankful for Good News in a world filled with scary headlines!
Did you know Baton Rouge is a great city? Are you aware of the many good things going on
around our city? Did you know God is moving mightily throughout our state? Have you heard of
the many people stepping out into ministry? Can you envision all of Heaven rejoicing when one
soul receives Jesus as their Lord and Savior? Can you sense a change of heart when one story
encourages another believer?

Perhaps you’ve read some of our amazing stories. If so, make it a point to thank our advertisers
or anyone on our team! Our magazines are free to the public through generous people who buy
advertising because they believe in sharing “Good News” in our city. 

Gratitude is not only a mindset; it comes with a promise. Peace! Our world is lacking in peace
because our world is lacking in thankfulness. We are called to an attitude of thanksgiving
because we have been promised that God is working out His plan in our lives. He is Good. 

Join our team! Be a part of what we are doing. Pray for us. Advertise with us. Help us grow in
our work as we look forward to 2018. Join our efforts in bringing together the Body of Christ so
we can be One Body.

Changing the world – one story at a time,

signbeth

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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October 2017, Publisher's Letter

October Publisher’s LETTER

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October Publisher’s LETTER

Patience. Few claim to have it, many wish for more of it, and most long to see more of it displayed in our highly impatient world.

Much has changed over the last few years. Most of that change is driven by technological advances, which makes “the world’s information” available instantly. The other day I was frustrated that my computer took a few extra seconds to turn on. Did you get that? A few extra seconds?

Much has changed over the last few years. Most of that change is driven by technological advances, which makes “the world’s information” available instantly. The other day I was frustrated that my computer took a few extra seconds to turn on. Did you get that? A few extra seconds?

This is an important time to realize that Christians are to be in the world, but not of the world. We cannot fall into the vicious trap of daily frustration and impatience. It’s just not God’s way. While there is a sense of urgency to reach the lost, there is ample evidence in the Bible that He speaks to His people through His Word and in response to prayer. Nurturing intimacy in that vital relationship is critical to hearing His voice among the massive noise of the world. You can’t rush that.

When God spoke to many of our Biblical heroes, it took a long time until His word was fulfilled. For Noah, it took 100 years. For Abraham, 25, for Joseph, 13, for Moses, 40 years in the desert, for David, 13 years before he was crowned king. Mind you, they didn’t sit around twiddling their thumbs waiting on God to act. While none of these men were perfect, they were active. They kept about the business of God. They led productive lives and were accomplished people.

My dad was a brilliant man. His creativity was off the charts. There is no doubt God could have used his many talents for great things. Not only that, but my father was sure of the call on His life. He spoke boldly of his purpose and seemed an unstoppable man on a God-led mission.

He passed away years ago, but looking back to learn from his life, it is evident “waiting upon the Lord” was not part of his personal agenda. Unfortunately, he wanted to leap past life lessons. He, like all of us, had much to learn in order to fulfill His calling. However, his impatience led him to seek ungodly wisdom and make unwise decisions — straying far from the instruction of the Bible. While many tried to reach my dad, he wouldn’t listen. Unfortunately, our family suffered greatly.

We can’t ask God to guide our steps and then question the steps. We must surrender our lives to a loving God who has a plan for each of us. Did you know we are called to live stress-free lives? Not pain and trouble-free, but stress-free. When Paul says in Philippians to “be anxious for nothing” he meant it. He would not have given such clear instruction if, through Christ, we were unable to achieve it.

The only “quick fix” to patience is from Philippians 4:6, 7 (NKJV): “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

For those of us who are impatient, the part of that verse that can change our lives completely is “with thanksgiving.” Gratitude is the door to peace. Reading the Bible regularly is also an excellent reminder that God moves when God moves. We are to submit our agenda daily. His ways are higher than our ways, but He is faithful to work HIS plan out in our lives.

Patience? If you have Jesus, you have patience. Our job is to quit leading and be led.

signbeth

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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Publisher's Letter, Septermber 2017

September Publisher’s LETTER

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SEPTEMBER Publisher’s LETTER

As Ambassadors of Christ,                     We Must Extend Kindness to Others

Each month I get the same phone call. It’s always the day after we have mailed out our sub-scriptions. “Thank you for making my day. I received my magazine today and I’m going to read cover to cover.” Mrs. Lee thinks we’ve done a kind act for her. But her phone call each month brightens my day. Not because of any lengthy in-depth discussion, but because I appreciate her kindness each month to call and say thanks.

A few months ago I was deeply concerned about a very personal issue. Such was my concern that I could not get it off my mind. It would keep me awake and it seemed there was little I could do to rest. Of course I prayed, read Scripture, and asked the Lord for help. It seemed it had such a grip on me that I felt as though I was failing in my faith. Then out of the blue, God did something seemingly random that I knew in a moment was Him. He was showing me that though I had to wait a bit longer, I could depend on his presence in the situation which calmed my restless soul.

Earlier today, a group of friends gathered to help a couple move back into their home. Much of the same group had assembled one year earlier in a panic to quickly gather and save what we could as flood waters had wreaked havoc on their belongings and destroyed much of what they had accumulated over the years. After our work was done, we stood in a circle and prayed together, thanking the Lord for friendships and the ability to help others.

Kindness. It is an underrated powerful act that whether from God or man, is indeed life changing. While it is a “fruit of the spirit,” it is also a daily choice. Much like patience, if we have Jesus, we have the fruit He promised. Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Daily we face the battle of free will. Often, the choice to live outside of God’s will and His purposes is the biggest choice we make each day. We must choose to believe He is who He says He is and that we are who He says we are.

You never know what someone else is facing. So many in our community lost so much in the last few months. Many are still rebuilding homes and lives. People are busy. Yet people value themselves when others treat them with value. As ambassadors of Christ, it’s our job to extend kindness daily. We are the hands and feet of Christ in our city and beyond.

Kindness. It takes so little and accomplishes so much.

Changing the world one story at a time.

Baton Rouge Christian Life MAGAZINE

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