Dr. Eric Ibegbu: Pastor, Doctor, & Business Owneri

The life of Dr. Eric Ibegbu is a picture of hope and inspiration, and a wonderful testament to the power of confession, faith and prayer.   He is a Gastroenterologist, Plastic Surgeon, and Bariatric Specialist practicing in Kinston and Jacksonville, North Carolina.  He is also the Pastor of Living Water Ministries, where he has “dedicated his life to the service of our Lord Jesus Christ and the speaking of the prophetic word of healing to the Nations of the earth.”  Originally from Nigeria, Dr. Ibegbu moved to Kinston over 10 years ago along with his wife, Shelly Ann Ibegbu, after Pastoring a church in Jacksonsville, Florida.  “The Lord orders our steps,” he says.  “The demands of family and the medical practice morphed my ministry style to become more evangelistic.”

In an interview with Gospel Pages Today, Dr. Ibegbu shared how he grew up in a less-fortunate household with a single mother.  His mother was saved, and she constantly spoke words of prosperity and faith over his life, declaring that God showed her that he would be a physician.  This belief contradicted his circumstances at the time, as he had the lowest grades in his class and could not understand his schoolwork. Through years of academic struggle, his mother kept faith in the word that God had given for her son.  She followed through with action – walking nearly five miles each day to get tutoring for him throughout grade school.  “She would wait for at least three hours outside while I received extra instruction,” Dr. Ibegbu shared.  The faith and determination paid off and he graduated number one in his high school class! 

Dr. Ibegbu was accepted into Nigeria’s most prestigious medical schools.  During his second year, he gave his life to The Lord.  Away from his mother and siblings, he was like a crazy kid running wild with freedom.  “I wanted to party but, without anyone knowing, The Lord touched me, and He took the appetite for that lifestyle away.”  He went on to lead a campus fellowship called Gospel Youth International in Nigeria.  The motto was “For young people led by young people.”  He is still connected to that ministry today, and there are about seven campuses in Nigeria.   “Alumni from that ministry are spread around the world and have gone into different areas of ministry.”

Following Dr. Ibegbu’s example, here are 10 ways to accomplish life and ministry goals:

1. Come out from among “them.”  After completing his medical training in Florida, Dr. Ibegbu had the opportunity to stay there and practice among many others in his field, but he realized that dreams can be stifled within a crowded field.  This led him to look elsewhere to open a practice. He was also offered an opportunity to practice at the top hospital in Nigeria – a position that over 1000 students desired, but he chose to leave where he was to pursue dreams in America.  He believed that his life could have more of an impact on those at home if he were to come to the United States for work.
2. Look for opportunity.  When Dr. Ibegbu learned that Kinston had no outpatient endoscopy clinics, he decided to open a clinic there.  He learned of the opportunity through a friend who had a practice in the Kinston area.  Always be on the lookout for opportunity.
3. Keep intentions pure.  Dr. Ibegbu saw an opportunity to save patients thousands of dollars.  Prior to him opening his practice, everything was done in hospital setting which costed patients a tremendous amount of money, even with insurance.  His clinic offers routine procedures in an outpatient setting, saving patients time and money. 
4. Don’t be afraid of risks.  “Step out into the ocean.  We only live an earthly life once.”  He was advised by prominent people not to leave the first practice to go to Kinston, but he decided he “would rather try and fail than to never try at all.”  The odds were against him.  He wasn’t born in America.  He would have to compete with established organizations that are 90% Caucasian.  He wondered how he would survive.  But his faith in God, prayers and confession of his mother, and support from his wife pushed him to take the risk and pursue his dreams.
5. Acknowledge and appreciate your supporters.  “I was confident [in decision making] because of my wife’s encouragement.”  “I received a jewel in the form of my wife.”  Dr. Ibegbu also expresses deep gratitude for his mother, who passed away in 2005.
6. Ministry should always be a lifestyle.  This means that all areas of life, including one’s profession, are to be considered platforms for sharing the Gospel.  In all we do, we are Christians first.  Dr. Ibegbu does not see his ministry works as being separate from his medical practice.  “My medical practice and ministry have always been intertwined.”  He “carries Christ with him wherever he goes and always aims to lead people to the Lord.  Church is not something to do just on Sunday.”
7. Be responsible for those you support.  This could mean kids, a congregation, employees – anyone in whom you are entrusted.   Dr. Ibegbu shared many times how his mother guided him physically and spiritually.  She gave him a target, pointed him in the direction, and walked with him until he found his way.  She dedicated prayer time for his well being.
8. Allow god to strategically position you for impact.  He recalled a time when he told The Lord that it was too much to go into full-time ministry while in medical school.  “The Spirit of The Lord spoke to me saying, ‘The audience you will have as a physician will be bigger than in ministry alone.  People are in desperate situations and they will be open to hear the gospel.’”  He then knew that giving up medicine was not an option.  Don’t forfeit your platform because it seems to be too much work.
9. Know the difference between church business and church as a business.  “Ministry today has become more of a business.   That has never been the case for my wife and me.   Ministry should never be a way to make money.”  The Ibegbu’s never took a salary for the ministry and never asked people to do things that they aren’t comfortable doing.
10. . Have an unshakable belief in accomplishing your dream.  “I’m a person coming to excellence in everything I do – in practicing medicine and serving The Lord.  Prominent people told him he was crazy to leave an established practice.  “You have to believe in your dreams so much so that, no matter who says it’s impossible, YOU know that it IS possible.”

We asked if Dr. Ibegbu had anything else he wanted Gospel Pages readers to know.  “Dream beyond where you come from.  It doesn’t matter if you’re the first to do something – dream and take steps to accomplish that dream.  Dreaming is easy.  Nothing will happen unless you act towards the dream.  You have to remove the limits that we allow others to put around us.” 

GS Award Winner: Melissa Clark, Winterville, NC

Gospel Pages today congratulates the first winner of our God-Spotted Award (GS Award), Melissa Clark – General Manager of Comfort Inn in Winterville, NC! In Luke 18:8, Jesus asked, “…when the Son of Man returns, will He find faith on the earth?”  The GS Award Program seeks to answer that question, recognizing people who display qualities of the nature of God – signs of their faith, in a way that positively impacts their community.  Melissa’s light shines so bright that it transformed the once chaotic atmosphere of Comfort Inn to a peaceful, desired retreat in under two months.

The hospitality industry struggles to be a home away from home for travelers, while eluding the activity of unwanted guests – particularly criminals involved with drugs, human trafficking and prostitution. Most of that activity comes from guests in the local area. To combat this, Melissa enforced a “no locals” policy. “Through extensive research and data, it has been proven that locals are problematic. The feedback that I have personally received has been outstanding.  Travelers appreciate it more than it is publicized. Locals may not appreciate it very much, some agree some may not but it comes with the territory.” The impact on the crime rate in the Greenville, NC and Winterville communities will be huge, especially if other area hotels follow suit.

We asked Melissa why she chose to work in the hotel industry. “The thing that prompted my desire [to work in hotel management] is the love I have for hospitality.  It presents an opportunity to minister and to be a blessing to others. It gives the opportunity to encourage, motivate, build up, and show the compassion of Jesus Christ!”  

The owners are very supportive in Melissa’s desire to increase the star rating, the marketing and advertising of a brand new property, while increasing the revenue. Under her leadership, the hotel has seen remarkable increases in the star ratings with online reviews and many comments mention her name and her staff as the reason for the positive changes. She had the building renovated and replaced the furniture, mattresses and towels to ensure the comfort of guests.

Melissa says that her positive leadership goes deeper than her faith. “It is my relationship with God that has contributed to my leadership abilities. It is God who has brought me this far. First, I learned to follow. I was teachable. I learned  that in order to be a great leader, you must learn to follow. You must endure hardships, you have to suffer.  Life without troubles is no life at all. Experiences be it pleasant or unpleasant is an opportunity to develop your gift and your character.”

“As far as leadership, one particular scripture comes to mind, Psalms 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the strength of my life: of whom shall I be afraid?” I haven’t always endorsed this scripture. I was very insecure about my weight and appearance. Once I rededicated my life to the Lord, the first message I preached was from this passage of scripture. God dealt with me first. He spoke directly to my heart, saying, ‘Who is it that causes you to be afraid? What do you fear?’ I began to tell God what caused me to be afraid… He molded me and freshly anointed me to view every situation to give me the opportunity to minister to the broken and bruised individuals I come in contact with. So here I am standing tall, big and bold in Christ.”

The Comfort Inn had a reputation of being the “anything goes hotel.”  Well not anymore! Travelers can expect a decent, quiet, safe and affordable place to lodge. Melissa says she is acutely aware that these activities exists, “however it WILL NOT be tolerated at this company. I will gladly report it to the authorities!”

READ THE FULL STORY IN THE MARCH/APRIL 2019 ISSUE

New Book By Rachelle Danielle: Still My Mommy

Rachelle Danielle

North Carolina native Rachelle Danielle, Author of Gut Feeling, released a new book inspired by her own life entitled, Still My Mommy.  In her latest work, Rachelle (portrayed as Kaitlyn in the book) has a life-changing experience at what she describes as “an unimaginably young age,” when she overhears a conversation about her mother’s battle with substance abuse.  Her innocence crushed, Kaitlyn navigates childhood on thin ice, being careful not to shatter the image of perfection that she carefully constructed to mask the internal struggles that emerged from her mother’s demons.  While substance abuse within families is not a rare phenomenon, it is a topic that is often avoided in Christian dialogue.  Semi-functional addicts look just like everyone else. They may bring their children to church every Sunday, show up to their extracurricular and educational events, while battling addiction to illicit substances at the same time.

We had the pleasure of talking with Rachelle at Gospel Pages to discuss her latest book.  We asked what inspired her to share such intimate details of her family and life with the world.  “Everything we do is for ministry if we allow it to be.  I just wanted to show how God brought me through.  A lot of times in the [Church] community we don’t want to address real issues.  This is my way of moving my mat and addressing what’s actually going on.” 

Rachelle definitely has a point.  Based on data published by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an average of 2.1 million children in the United States age 17 or younger live in households with at least one parent who is an illicit drug abuser.  One could wonder how many Church families are included in that 2.1 million – some who could be considered functional based on their performance and attempts to keep things looking “normal.”  “My mom always got clean enough to come to my awards ceremonies and concerts,” Rachelle recalls.  “She made sure I attended church regularly.”

We asked Rachelle if she ever felt like her life was in danger during these times in her childhood. “My mom never introduced me to different men she may have dated, and she always made attempts to assure her time away was at a fun, safe place for me.  The only time I felt potential danger at all was one night when my mother and I had to stay in a shelter and a racist remark was made, but my mother quickly removed me from the shelter and took me to my aunt’s house.”

Rachelle says that she has been writing her whole life.  “My mom was on drugs and I could never talk about it.  When it got really bad, I moved in with my grandma who gave me a spiral-bound journal.  Journaling was so healing that I continued to do it.”  Deciding to pursue writing as a career, she majored in mass communication and journalism in college at first.  Her parents persuaded her to switch to accounting under the impression that it would be more lucrative – a decision that Rachelle deeply regrets.

In Still My Mommy, Rachelle shares that her father was away in the military during much of the rough patches in her childhood.  We asked if she felt his absence contributed to her inner battles.  “My dad was always there for me and offered me a home with him and his wife, but I was afraid of the effect it would have on my mother.”  According to Rachelle, her mother would pull herself together enough to be present whenever Rachelle would have an accomplishment.  “I was in a constant struggle to overachieve in order to win the approval and sobriety of my mother.  I felt a sense of obligation…she always got clean enough to show up when I did something great.  She seemed to transfer her anger with herself onto me, so anything about me that reminded her of herself, she criticized heavily.”  Rachelle channeled her anger at her mother in a way that forced her to push forward towards a successful life. 

The first book by Rachelle, Gut Feeling, was published through an agency.  She decided to self-publish this one due to negative experiences with the first book.  We asked if she had any tips for writers regarding publishing options.  “Trust your gut with publishing companies.  Publishing companies will do things that aren’t always ethical.  Don’t ever go against your morals nor compromise integrity for money.  At the end of the day you must live with yourself.  Be persistent.  Treat writing like a part-time job.  Have a writing schedule and stick to it.  Don’t expect to get rich overnight.”

When asked how she was able to continuously forgive her mother and overcome the internal battles with self-esteem resulting from her childhood, Rachelle shared that she sought professional counseling.  “I tried going to pastors in the church for counseling and insight but found no help and felt that my words were used against me with my mother.”  She does not discourage others from seeking in-church counseling.  She advises everyone to check credentials and be sure that the person doing the counseling has received formal training in that area. 

Fortunately, Rachelle did not become a negative statistic of her childhood.  She attributes that to being obligated to attend church, to her grandmother’s earnest prayers for her and her mother, and to her relationship with God.  Thankfully, her mother has beat addiction and now uses her testimony to help others in similar situations.  Rachelle would like Gospel Pages readers to know what to look for when dealing with children who are victims of household substance abuse.  “Kids talk too.  Kids notice changes in behavior so don’t treat them like they are oblivious…don’t try to act like nothing is going on.   Have the conversation.  Don’t leave them to figure out things…it’s too much pressure for children who have wild imaginations.”

Damita Chandler (formerly Damita Haddon) sat down for an exclusive interview with Gospel Pages Weekly.

Damita Chandler

Damita has taken many lessons from her 15-year marriage to Deitrick Haddon.  “Being in a relationship really teaches you how to deal with people’s personalities, weaknesses, and flaws.”  Since her divorce, she has been doing just fine. “Life is amazing! In reference to the divorce, we haven’t been together since 2011. We have both moved on the way God planned. I believe that God allows things to
happen in our lives. I put my total trust in Him … I am better than okay.” The Bible teaches that it is difficult for two to walk together unless they agree. We asked Damita if this was an area of difficulty in her marriage. “Concerning spiritual things, we always agreed. However, in the natural, you aren’t going to agree on everything. Just because you don’t agree, it doesn’t mean it should tear up a relationship, whether it’s a friendship, marriage or whatever. We did agree on most things. Of course, we had different opinions and outlooks, but at the end of the day it’s about coming to a common denominator and common ground. For the most part, years ago there was agreement.”

Damita has found herself in the public eye for her marriage to Haddon, her career, and her appearance on “Preacher’s Wives of LA.” She says neither her time in the spotlight, nor her ex-husband’s career, led to the divorce. When asked if she believes in love, she replied: “There isn’t just a single thing. It’s not like a one answer solution, it depends on the situation. I would say that love works. My current husband and I [have a motto] – ‘Love will work when two people want it to work.’ I’d say when you want it to work, put forth the effort to make it work. The moment one person chooses not to, it totally causes a chain reaction. Everything that you built together begins to collapse. Love is the foundation of a relationship … period. I’m not talking about the goosebumps & butterflies nor the heart skipping-a- beat-type of love, but agape love that God talks about in the scripture; the love that doesn’t hurt nor cause any wrong.”

The Haddock divorce was flooded with confusion, public humiliation on both sides, accusations and social media post wars­including indirect stabs at Damita from Deitrick’s current wife, Dominique. The controversy wreaked havoc on the congregation (the Haddocks pastored a church together in Detroit during their marriage) and shook the Christian community. Deitrick pointed the finger at recording artist, Isaac Carree, accusing him of infidelity with Damita, sparking their divorce.

Damita encourages couples not to take love for granted. “I would tell married people, and especially those looking to get married, to analyze yourself and not the other person. If you are ready – really ready- you will question compatibility and things that we normally don’t deal with before getting married.” The circumstances and trials she faced positively influences her music, writing, mentoring, singing, and speaking. “I’ve been able to help numerous first ladies, preacher’s wives, and regular people … ”
Being an avid Christian and believer, Damita values humility. “My situation, my life, and what I’ve been through prepared me to help [others]. I believe that’s why God chose me to go through what I went through – so I could be a light to someone else. Sometimes we try to lie our way out of life. I’m able to tell the truth and keep it real. Keep it real about who and what you are. That’s just the way it is.”

One of Damita’s inspirational songs is “I Won’t Turn Back.” “This song is very detailed concerning my mentality and what I’ve seen. I’ve learned that I’m the only person that I hurt by staying in the mind frame of the past, or the same patterns of grief. You get stuck in a holding pattern of ‘what would have been’. In order to move forward and become everything that I was meant to be, I have to move forward. I’m not looking back and staying stuck in a situation. ‘I Won’t Turn Back’ isn’t just a song- I apply it to my life.”

Luke Adams, Sting, Janet Jackson, Tina Turner, Dorinda Clark, Vickie Winans, CeCe Winans and Vanessa Bell are artists that Damita enjoys and have been her sources of inspiration. When asked if she had any advice for aspiring artists, Damita said, “Above all, keep singing! You’re setting yourself up if you are dormant and not doing anything with [your gift]. Get involved! If you’re in a church, get in the choir and sing – get on the praise team. You don’t always have to lead, you just need to be doing something and training your ear and voice to get better. Aspire to be the best background singer, harmonizer, praise and worship leader or section leader. When you love to sing, you just love to sing and grow as a singer.”
Damita wants people to see the joy, happiness, and overwhelming love she has today and the man that God has sent into her life. “I want to make sure that is represented, and that my story is told the right way.” Look for Damita in the many venues in which she shares the gospel.

Wess Morgan: From Jailhouse to Pulpit – Surviving the Storm’s Aftermath

By Naya Powell

The life of gospel recording artist and Pastor, Wess Morgan, has resembled the stages of a severe storm, leaving behind a trail of damage, confusion and grief.  But just like the sky illuminates with sunshine after a storm, the light of God’s grace and mercy has transformed his pain into a beautiful testimony of the deep love and forgiveness we can find in God.  He now lives abundantly.  In an interview with Gospel Pages, he talked about his latest cd project entitled, “Livin’.” “It talks about the things that I enjoy in life, extracurricular activities, my family, my children and basically the hook of the song – this is how I’m supposed to be and I’m Livin’!”  But what about the people who get caught in the aftermath?  They are left with the consequences of being in the path of someone else’s storm.  How are they “Livin’,” and how can they recover from the disaster?

Wess Morgan built his ministry around values of transparency and accountability, and publicly shares his testimony of deliverance from drug addiction (which began at age 11), juvenile detention, jail and prison.   This transparency has changed the lives of many and allowed the message of the Gospel to reach others who struggle with the same or similar issues.  “Everything that I’ve been through in my life, ups & downs – through it all I’ve written about those times, and now I’m in a situation where it impacts everything that I do.” 

Throughout the storms of addiction and legal despairs, his ex-wife, Betsy Morgan, stood by his side for 18 years and raised their children.  The storm was not only damaging to Wess, but also to the marriage and the children – some born from adulterous relationships that occurred as he battled with the addiction, and in the rubble was a divorce and re-marriage to one of the mothers of the children born during his first marriage.  

When God delivers us from storms such as this, the Bible teaches us in Psalm 103:12 that “He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.”  His love and grace covers us, and repentance transforms us into “new creatures” in Christ.  However, the victims of the storms, even those who are Believers, often find it difficult to cope.  We see this happen in churches all the time –pastors who divorce and remarry, or who have some type of confusion surrounding relationships…but the grace of God allows for repentance and they continue to minister under the anointing.  The topic is not popular because people are afraid to deal with issues that may offend, but the nature of God is to heal every area in us that hurts, so let’s talk about it.

Betsy Morgan made her family’s grief public through a Facebook post in response to her ex-husband’s announcement of marriage to Danielle Walker. Walker was a member of their congregation and mother of one of Wess’ children born during his marriage to Betsy.  Neither Betsy nor the children were aware of the new marriage prior to the public announcement being made, so imagine the shock that she and the children experienced.

There are many ways that people respond to this type of grief.  Bystanders, both in and out of church, may be quick to say things like, “get over it and move on.”  Some may condemn Wess and accuse him of being a false prophet.  The truth according to Romans 3:23 is, “we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  None are worthy of being forgiven, but the mercy of God and the sacrifice of Jesus has paved the way for all to be forgiven.  The aftermath can not only affect the immediate family, but also the extended family, friends, and the church.  Pastors are expected to live up to a high standard of holiness, so when they fall, congregations often shatter. 

For those struggling to put back the pieces that were shattered during a storm, you are not alone! Our pain is not strange to God, and the Bible says that He is “touched by the feelings of our infirmities.” Isaiah 53:4 lets us know that He has carried our sorrows.  Accept what has happened, resist the urge for revenge, and trust God to handle the situation. Revenge is not our job. Depression does not have to be our fate. He takes our pain seriously, and just as the blood of Abel cried out to God when Cain killed him in Genesis, God will call for repentance and accountability for the voice of any blood that has been drawn from us.   Trust Him to handle it – step out of the pain and into God’s deliverance by choice.  

The path to recovery is not easy, but with God all things are possible.  We all know the religiously correct answer is to pray about it and that is right, but also realize that it is okay to seek professional counseling.  It helps just to talk things out with someone who has studied these subjects and can give a non-biased ear to aid in healing.  The Mayo Clinic shares some signs that can indicate that professional help is needed after grief: 

• Withdrawing from others
• Inability to complete normal routines
• Deep sadness, guilt, or self-blame
• Feeling that life isn’t worth living

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you are encouraged to seek counseling.  As for Wess Morgan, God continues to use him mightily.  When we asked him how his storm has impacted his ministry, he said, “When I stand before people, I let [them] know it doesn’t matter what people say and it doesn’t matter how people trash, stereotype you, categorize you – it can’t stop the purpose of God for your life.”  He shares this message with GP readers, “…you have to understand that God has a plan for your life.  My dad told me years ago you are going to have a ministry… it may be in jail, it may be in a church or it may be traveling, but one way or another God’s going to get what He wants out of you.  I think it’s so important for us to just yield to it rather than fight the process.” “God got the glory out of …everything that the devil tried to use to destroy me.”

Read the latest issue here…

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Bryan Andrew Wilson: Defying Child Prodigy Statistics and Finding a New Voice

By Naya Powell

The music industry is tough for adult stars, and some would say it is no place for children.  The gospel music sector is no exception.  We’ve all heard stories of child stars who suffer from emotional instability, drug abuse and depression as they age.  What does it take for children who experience the pressures of the spotlight to defy the odds and grow to be functional, successful adults?

Bryan Andrew Wilson grabbed the attention of the gospel music industry at the early age of 10 years old, through his exceptional vocal leading of “His Eye is on the Sparrow,” with the Mississippi Mass Children’s Choir in the 90’s.  During an interview with Gospel Pages, we asked Wilson how having a gift and an anointing to sing at such an early age impacted his childhood. “Music really impacted me and allowed me to get one of my first scholarships to college.”  He continued to share about his wonderful experiences, including the opportunities to travel and meet different people.  It isn’t hard to imagine the upside of the industry, but there is another side for which young dreamers and their parents are often unprepared.

Wilson shared his experience with one of the main woes of any type of celebrity status:  Isolation.  As a child, he found that other kids his age could not relate to the requirements of his occupation, and more often than that, he was unable to relate to them. How many 11-year-olds have a photo I.D., a credit card, and a bank account?  Wilson’s talent consumed him and traveling a lot forced him to mature quickly. 

Identity crisis – another side effect of early success, was also a challenge for Wilson.  He was known for being “the little boy with the high voice that did all the runs,” but as he grew, naturally, his voice deepened. For awhile he became depressed due to the changes and struggled to “discover” himself without his signature sound. “I [felt] like I had failed and…fallen from such a successful place.”  It was during this season in life that God became real to Wilson.  “I heard The Lord minister to me and [He] said ‘Go through this season and I’m going to bring you back.’” 

According to therapist Wanda Behrens-Horrell at PsychologyToday, “Young entertainers constantly cope with rejection, jealousy, self-scrutiny, obsessive thoughts, and the nonstop need to be perfect.  These children are at high risk of becoming emotionally unstable and of becoming drug, alcohol, or sex abusers.”  She believes that the fate of these children’s development lies heavily in their parents’ attentiveness to the children’s well-being and staying aware of any signs of mental disturbance.

Other child stars who have grown to become successful adult entertainers, such as Brooke Shields and Natalie Portman, took brief interludes from stardom to do normal things like attend college.  Likewise, Wilson took a breather, graduated from Clanton University and took time to perfect his gift.  “I began to look at different artists that had been in the industry for years and years and wondered what gave them longevity; not just in the industry but in God. It really was that they took time to perfect themselves.  They…strived to be better – to be more likeGod.” 

The concept of perfecting his gift really hit home when Wilson was working with gospel recording artist and songwriter, Ted Winn.   Wilson had become confident and settled in a comfort zone with his vocal abilities. During a recording session, Winn repeatedly stopped him, insisting that he could do better.  Wilson became frustrated but realized that he was not accustomed to being challenged.  He heard the Lord in that moment saying, “Bryan, there is a more excellent way.  Whatever way that you have learned, whatever your current level, there’s yet still amore excellent way.”   He did a heart-check and gained the understanding that being humble and resisting pride were the key factors to perfecting his gift as well as every area of his life.

Bryan Andrew Wilson is back with a new identity and a new voice with his cd entitled, “One Percent.” This is his fifth album – influenced by his Washington, DC residency status with a go-go style as well as a Motown sound that was inspired by childhood memories of his five singing uncles who sounded like The Temptations.  He derived the title of the cd from the story of the Good Shepherd in Matthew 18, who leaves the 99 sheep to go after the one who went astray.

The songs on this album highlight his experiences in his walk with The Lord.  With ministry at the forefront of his agenda, he encourages Gospel Pages readers with these words:  “It doesn’t matter what you have done, whether you have a secret sin, a secret habit or a public failure…God loves you. Before you ever made a mistake, God already made a way for the correction when Jesus gave His life over 2000 years ago.  He doesn’t expect you to stay in that fallen state, but He’s welcoming you back to a place of perfection and that is only found in relationship with Him.”

WHEN HE CHEATS: ARE SOME ACTIONS ENOUGH TO JUSTIFY BREAKING THE SACRED BOND OF MARRIAGE?

It is no secret that Tina Campbell, better known as half of gospel duo Mary Mary, had some trouble in her marriage.  Fans were shocked to learn that Tina’s husband, Teddy, had an affair with a close friend.  Even more shocking to some was Tina’s decision to forgive the infidelity and remain in the marriage.  The gospel community questioned how she could dare to do such a thing…and how her husband could dare to cheat on an iconic, beautiful and successful woman. Surprisingly, most of the uproar and outcries came from “the church.”

As difficult as the decision to stay must have been forTina, one is left to question the harshness of the Christian naysayers.  Are we (Believers) not held to the same high standard of forgiveness?  If she is willing to search within herself and her marriage for forgiveness, relying on her faith in God for answers, should not the Christian community support her decision?  In this situation, what if  Tina was unable to get over the infidelity? Is it acceptable for her to get a divorce in the eyes of God?

The standards for Christian marriage and divorce, like many topics in the Bible, can vary based on individual interpretation.  Some say divorce is acceptable when infidelityoccurs.  Others believe that marriage isfor better or worse – regardless of faithfulness.  It is not unusual to find the same scriptures being used to support both stances.

Matthew 19:3-12 says, “Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, ‘Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?’  Haven’t you read,”he replied, “that at the beginning The Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be unified to his wife, and the two will become one flesh?’  So they are no longer two, but one flesh.  Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”  “Why then,”they asked, “did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?”  Jesus replied, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard.  But it was not this way fromthe beginning.  I tell you, though, anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries anotherwoman commits adultery.”

How are we to know the true wishes of our God?  Does He understand that in some cases, divorce is inevitable?  Especially regarding infidelity.  The Bible does seem to makean exception for divorce in Matthew 19:19. However, some debate whether this scripture truly refers to adultery.

Intense research is not necessary to understand God’s realviews on marriage and divorce.  A look within will reveal what is right and what is wrong.  Scripture teaches us the most important principle and commandment of all:  LOVE.  “Love covers a multitude of sins…” (1 Peter4:8).  God loves us so much that He covers our sins, and He teaches us to cover those of others.  He searches the true intent of our hearts and judges us with mercy.  When we understand His love, and we aim to love Him, everything else falls into place.  God makes peace and understanding availableto us in all circumstances.  He forgives our mistakes when we ask. 

Every effort should always be taken to keep a marriage intact, but remain aware of the love and peace that can only be thoroughly attained through a relationship with God.  In aletter to her fans, Tina addressed her husband’s infidelity but also pointed out her own battles with rage, unforgiveness and pride.  “Instead of being mad at each other, we’re mad at the devil and we’re ready to fight!” She encourages couples to fast together and to make praying together apriority.

Much can be learned from the Campbells. Since the controversy, they have allowed God to restore their marriageand they openly share their testimony with others.  Together, they minister to couples worldwide on their YouTube TV Show that can be watched at www.TeddyandTina.com.  In an interview with the Gospel MusicAssociation, Tina said, “When we considered that we’ve made the journey through better and worse and back to better, and are now approaching 18 years of marriage, we are beyond overjoyed to continue to bring couples this bi-weekly discussion of life, love, family and faith.” Are some actions enough to justifiably end a marriage?  There is no one-size-fits-all answer.  As with any trial or test we face as Believers, the true sign of victory is whether our faith in God still stands firm regardless of the outcome.

Long’s Lasting Legacy

Last year, at the age of 63, Bishop Eddie Long passed away, leaving many without closure on the conflicts he created throughout his ministry.

Once pastor to a 25,000 mega church, Long fell from grace after he settled suits with four different young men from his congregation who accused him of sexual misconduct. Long’s influence over the masses may have dwindled over the past few years, but the legacy he left behind still leaves raw wounds on those who believed in him and based their faith on his teachings. He may be gone, but the lasting scars he left behind are slow to heal.

Long at his peak was one of the most popular and influential figures in ministry. He spoke before Congress, visited with President Clinton in the White House, and hosted Coretta Scott King’s funeral service. However, he was also flamboyant, flying in a private jet, driving a $350,000 Bentley, and living in a $1.4 million house. He was also accused of receiving money from charities that were supposed to be non-profit. Once the allegations of misconduct surfaced, the end was in sight for Long’s broad reach.

Not only were the allegations shocking because of Long’s social standing and teachings, they flew in the face of marches he had taken part in, denouncing homosexuality. Not to mention he was married to his faithful wife, who would threaten divorce but in the end stuck by Long until his death.

Long’s death was unexpected to the media, though some suspected he had been fighting an illness as he rapidly lost weight. He denied any health issues until it was finally revealed that he had been fighting an aggressive form of cancer. While Long may be gone, the effects of his betrayal of the church are far-reaching. In speaking of Long’s influence, NPR’s Michael Martin said:

“Bishop Long’s ministry, although, it did a lot of good – let me be very clear when I say that there were a lot of moments of positive ministry moments where lives were changed in terms of social-economic standing – but the way in which that ministry took place was an emphasis on personal piety, holiness and not much the prophetic witness against injustices in the broader society.

And so in the African-American church, Eddie Long is one of those kinds of figures that is worth examining as a tipping point in the way in which the African-American church has centered itself in the community and the message that has been preached, specifically in the African-American community.”
How are parishioners supposed to trust in their leaders with an example like Long’s? With such a great following, he had become a poster-child of ministry, and the depths to which he fell make many wonder who they can trust in the church. If not this man followed by so many, who?

Long’s death has stolen any further chance for answers or retribution. It leaves the church to find a way to get back into the hearts of its followers, to re-establish trust where it has been betrayed in one of the greatest ways possible. Not only a betrayal in principle, but one that directly affected the lives of those who were abused in insurmountable ways.

It is important that the conversation continue, long after those affected have moved on. Because through conversation, communication, and awareness, the gospel community can learn from these blights. They can make things better. And instead of being victims, they can become advocates to ensure nothing like this ever happens again.

Our thoughts are with Long’s family, and we pray for them to find peace in this time of sadness.

Ruth La’Ontra So Good

Born and raised in Connor, NC, this inspiring beauty is making national waves. We had the pleasure of interviewing Ruth and congratulating her on her new album.

Do you have words of encouragement for younger men and women?

I’m a firm believer in not letting anyone tell you what you can and can’t do. As long as you put your mind to it, know that you can achieve it. You can receive it but first you have to put in your mind to believe it. Faith without works is dead. It’s okay to pray and have faith, all of that is great and is exactly what we need on a day to day basis; but you are going to have to do the work. You can’t sit around, eat, drink, sleep, talk, hang out and loaf around. Get out and pursue your dream in order for the dream to become a reality. I always say keep God first, stay humble, don’t get a big head; support others because when you support others they will support you. Make yourself known and reach for the stars. Don’t just reach for the stars, reach beyond the stars.

Was the Tyscot record deal a dream come true?

It was, and the way I got up with Tyscot Records is actually pretty cool, it was a moment I will never forget. It was about two years ago at the G.M.W.A. before I was signed. My dad and I were talking with Sidney Scott (A&R Director). Sidney asked me what I wanted to do in life. I told him I wanted to reach nations, ministering with my music and let the world know about God. Two years later I signed with the very people that I talked with about doing my music. Tyscot had heard the song and Sidney Scott was playing it when Bryant Scott walked past the door. He asked who was singing, and Sidney replied, “the girl I have been telling you about”.

What role does God play in your dream of singing coming true?

He played every role from the beginning, middle, to the end; Well not the end yet because there is so much that He is still doing and already did. God’s been my number one supporter, fan, and go-to person that I can talk to in the middle of the night and first thing in the morning. He has been my buddy through it all and he has never left me, been there through thick and thin. He’s been there to wipe tears away, to hold me and He’s been there through the whole process and He’s still here! He plays a big role!

How would you introduce God to a reader of Gospel Pages that may not know him?

I would say, whenever you feel lonely, don’t ever feel alone. Remember that there is always someone there that will hear your cry, wipe your tears away that will hold you when you feel like no one is there. He will be with you through the thick, and thin, no matter who leaves you, you can always trust Him. No matter who forsakes you, He never will, no matter who talks down to you, He will never do it. His grace and His mercy are sufficient. He gives us a gift every day and that’s His grace.

You served your grandmother & great grandmother in their final days before their passings. Would you say your heart to serve comes across in your music ministry?

Serving is a big part of my ministry because I serve now at my grandmother’s church as praise and worship leader and there are so many people that need help wherever I go to sing. I love singing and giving back to others. I believe that the gift God places inside us isn’t only just for us but to reach others and get His name out to other people, so they can know Him and get closer to Him. My grandmother and great grandmother were my babies. I helped take care of them since I was a little girl. Although they were sick, they weren’t sick if you know what I mean. They were still silly, upbeat and joyful. They had Alzheimer’s and cancer but both got healed before they passed away. I’ve done private duty nursing for other elderly people as well.

Why do you sing?

I sing because I am happy (laughs). I sing because it has been a part of me since I was a little girl; it’s in my family, in my bloodline. Every time I would see an awards show or see someone on TV singing. I would say, “that’s going to be me”.

You bankrolled your three-song EP and put it on iTunes. Why did you go that route instead of waiting for a label deal?

We had a three-song EP with my singles “Count It All Joy”, “Speechless”, and “I’m in Love with a Man”. I had been singing since I was two. I gained all these followers and supporters. By age 15, I made my first YouTube video, singing “Pass Me Not” and “I Need Thee”. My family, friends and local support always wanted me to sing my own songs and music. Then I met Bubby Fann (a Dark Child gospel artist) who has always been a friend of the family. Bubby, my dad, and I released the three-song EP.

How does the song “Count It All Joy” fit into your everyday living?

“Count It All Joy” really works because so many times we are faced with trials and tribulations in life. We may get down some- times but in the midst of it all we have to always keep our heads up and know that we are going to come out as pure gold. Each time we go through something, count it all joy, don’t get worried or depressed but know that you are coming out of it. My grandmother always says behind every dark cloud the sun is going to come out shining bright. “Count It All Joy” was my single for about a year and did really well on the charts and radio.

What singers inspired you to want to sing?

My mentor Shawntay Hill and first cousin/God sister grew up together singing “The Safest Place” by Karen Clark and Kiki Sheard. I would sing Kiki’s part and Shawntay sang Karen’s part. I’ve loved Kiearra Sheard since I was a little girl. I was also, inspired by Dorinda Clark-Cole and Kim Burrell. Growing up, my sibling and I would sing all their songs.

What do you want to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered for the girl who was God-based all-day and everyday. The fame and fortune are all gravy but at the end of the day, we all have a purpose. My main purpose is to let the world know about God.