Retro SGM Radio: Reality Check on Rose Gardens

Reality Check: I Beg Your Pardon

There is nothing quite like the soft patter of a gentle summer rain. I looked out of the window and saw that the rain was heavy on the roses, which were bending beneath the strain of droplets filling their petals. As I began to tenderly tie up the heavy, prickly stems, I was reminded of a song: “I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden…”1 an old song with a simple truth for us today. None of us were ever promised a life without problems.

Giving your heart and life to Jesus does not guarantee you a perfect life, but it does mean that you have an Almighty God Who is watching you and will come close to you if you let Him. I’ve been working my way through the Old Testament and I find that often when God’s heroes were having a rough time – which they invariably did – there is usually a statement that says, ‘And the Lord saw…’ That in itself is comforting, for He sees with discernment. He knew and understood what they were going through and what they were feeling.

I’m so glad the Lord sees when I am going through things that are difficult, when I’m trying to get from Point A to Point B and everything in between seems like such a struggle. For you, this may mean that Point B is a new job, a new spouse, a bigger paycheck, a better relationship, or a healthier body. But between now and then, there are a lot of rose bushes with a whole lot of thorns.

Isn’t it interesting how often we think, ‘If this was God’s will, surely it would be easier?’ Unfortunately, it usually isn’t fun to be on the path of God’s perfect will for your life. Look at the lives of Abraham, Joseph, or King David. Poor David had crazy King Saul chasing him from cave to cave, wanting to kill him. Abraham spent most of his life on the road. Joseph went from being thrown in a pit to being thrown in jail. These men were all following the Lord’s path for them. Yet, through it all, the Lord ‘saw’ them. He was working out His plan for good in their lives.

There is also the argument that if God told us to ask for what we want, surely He will line our paths with good things only, such as roses without thorns? Not so. In Philippians, Paul says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:6 and 7). The Lord doesn’t say He will answer an automatic ‘yes’ to whatever we bring before Him, but He does say He will give us peace. What a great promise!

Often the path from where we were to where we want to be takes dips and turns we aren’t expecting. From the beginning of my illness until now, I have seen many specialists and heard many proposed diagnoses and treatments. At first, it appeared that this would be a short-term situation and soon I’d been back to my normal self. After a year and a half, it’s obvious that’s not the case. But again, biblical tales of people just planning on going from here to there, often have twists in the story. Jonah wasn’t planning on meeting a big fish. Daniel wasn’t planning on being tossed to the lions. Sometimes God just wants to remind us that our timing is not His timing. But His timing is always right.

Are you finding it difficult making your way along the path from here to there? Trust that God knows where you are and if you follow Him, He will take you places you could never dream of finding on your own. Get to know the Lord better, read His Word, talk to Him and listen to His voice. It’ll make your path seem much more manageable, thorns and all.

I’m so glad that God gave us the example of simple roses to show us that life is still beautiful even with thorns, no matter where His will takes us. Between Point A and Point B there will be hard times and there will be unexpected turns, but He still sees and cares for us. The Lord is our “Rose of Sharon” bringing beauty and peace to our lives.

Written by Lorraine Walker
Published on SGM Radio website April 2013

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1. From the song “Rose Garden”, written by Joe South, 1969.

Retro SGM Radio: Reality Check - Asking the Hardest Question

Reality Check for April 2008
By Lorraine Walker

A short time ago a lady spoke in our church about how the Lord had blessed her and her family. She spoke of some challenges they had faced with her son who had a birth defect. She related how the trials had been difficult but seemed like small hills which gradually led them to one huge mountain. This situation was so hard that she found herself asking all the “why” questions. Then it struck her that when something good happened, she rarely asked why. So if she took the good things as a part of life, why was she questioning the difficult circumstances?

I don’t believe that God is afraid of any of our hard questions. He created us to be inquisitive and to reason. We can ask Him anything and like a good Father, He will answer. However, sometimes our penchant for asking why keeps us from actually seeing or hearing His answers.

There is one particular situation in my life that seems to be a continual source of challenge. Many nights I have lain awake, asking the Lord, “Why?” I didn’t realize that this was my way of dwelling on the negative areas of the situation instead of seeing anything good.

We were reading the story of Ruth and Naomi during devotions one morning at work when God revealed this truth to my heart. Naomi and Ruth had come to a crossroad and Naomi suggested that Ruth return to her homeland. Ruth’s husband had died and she had nothing. They had grieved for their loss and it was now time to move on. However, Ruth made a decision that would change her life.

Instead of falling to the ground, wailing about the situation and asking God why, she realized what a treasure she had been given in her mother-in-law Naomi. She and Naomi traveled together to Bethlehem, where Ruth eventually met and married Boaz, and was blessed to have Jesus Christ within her line of descendents. Ruth had chosen to leave the ‘whys’ with the past and look instead at what God had given to her in the present. This enabled her to move on and trust God with her future.

The next time I find myself asking God “why”, I hope I remember to ask myself why I’m asking “Why?”. Is it easier to dwell on the negative and want the answers to all our questions because we say we want closure? God isn’t afraid of our questions, but neither does He want us to dwell in the past. We are to leave that behind and face the future, knowing that His blessings in our lives right now are proof that He will continue to be with us whatever we face. “Where Thou goest, I will go!”

For current "Reality Check" blogs by Lorraine Walker, click on to http://www.sgmradio.com/lorraine-walker-reality-check/

Retro SGM Radio: Firm Foundation: Putting Jesus “Out There”

SGM Radio Feature for July 2010
By Lorraine Walker

Youthful energy, tight harmony, engaging lyrics, progressive vocals and multiple award nominations; Firm Foundation is as cool as they come in new Southern Gospel. This young group has been on the road for eight years but many are hearing them for the first time with the release of “Already On My Knees” and wondering why Firm Foundation isn’t already a mainstay on the music charts. The Kentucky-based quartet is burning up the roads and radio playlists as their hot sound is sparking interest across the country.

Steve Bridgmon, lead singer and manager of Firm Foundation, talks about the humble beginnings of this fast-rising quartet. “Firm Foundation sang in front of a crowd for the first time in 2002 at my home church, Red Hill Baptist in Utica, Kentucky, which is a small, backwoods country church that we still sing at to this day. Although some of our venues have grown and so has our audience sizes, we will never forget about the ones who let us come and minister in the beginning. Those churches are the heart of who we are. It's been a long road from my 3rd grade solo of "Away In A Manger",which is the first time I ever sang in front of a crowd!”

Bridgmon is joined by the two Josh’s, Josh Brown on tenor and Josh Teasley singing baritone, along with Anthony Davis singing bass. “Our ages are from 20 to 30-something years old,” says Steve. “Three of the guys are all under the age of 27. We came together through the power of the internet. Of course God had a plan for Firm Foundation and brought us together. We're all different and I think it would be boring if we were all just alike.”Each of the men also have jobs that work in sync with their touring schedule and are involved in their local churches when possible.

One listen to the current single and it’s easy to hear the talent embodied by these four unique gentlemen. What is difficult to understand, perhaps, is why they’ve stayed in an industry that may not offer as many advantages as other fields of Christian music. “We chose to go into the southern gospel genre because anything else is just noise!” Bridgmon laughs. “But seriously, if we can't sing about our Lord Jesus Christ, we may as well shut the bus off and go home. Southern Gospel lyrics are biblical and not watered down like many other styles of music. SG isn't scared to put Jesus out there and tell everyone how we feel about Him.”

Firm Foundation puts their faith ‘out there’ with every song and worked hard to ensure that their latest recording did the same. "’Footsteps of Life’ is our newest recording,” says Bridgmon. “Donna Beauvais did an absolutely amazing job as producer. She brought so much out of us. Two of the guys in the group had no studio experience at all. We prayed over every song for weeks before we sang them in the studio.”

“Everyone at Sunset Boulevard Studios was amazing,” Bridgmon continues. “We got to work with some of the very best in Nashville. The piano player on the album is on tour with Rascal Flatts right now. All the players on the album have worked with some huge names in country and contemporary Christian, as well as Southern Gospel. Donna Beauvais has an amazing ear and she definitely knows chords!”

The songs on “Footsteps Of Life” were carefully chosen, says Bridgmon. “It took me about a year to pick out all the songs. The songwriters are the heart of this album. I'm not sure I have a favorite song. I love the track ‘Already On My Knees’ because it describes my journey over the past few years. No matter how the devil comes at you, he can't knock you down if you're already on your knees.”

Firm Foundation has received commendations from others in the industry that they have posted on their website at http://www.firmfoundationqt.com/. Dusty Wells of Word Music Group is quoted as saying, “Firm Foundation's new recording … is pure quartet at its best and they have chosen songs that reflect the hope and peace that Jesus offers to all of us on this journey.”

Ed Crawford of the Mystery Men is also a fan of the quartet. When SGM Radio asked him who he thought had great potential for going far in Southern Gospel, his response was Firm Foundation, a group they had worked with recently. Ed says the quartet has “…a great sound and is a good bunch of young guys.”

Firm Foundation is now receiving accolades from across the industry, including three Diamond Award Nominations for Sunrise Group of the Year, Artist Website and Album of the year. It has taken awhile for Southern Gospel to recognize their existence, says Bridgmon. “Only recently, probably during the past year or so, has the Southern Gospel audience taken notice. Our audience until then, and even now, has been the unchurched. What a great responsibility that is, to be able to sing to a group of people who don't hear about Christ every week!”

Spreading the Good News with those who don’t know Jesus, and their new music with an audience who hasn’t heard the group is a challenge. Bridgmon talks about the internet effect in marketing Firm Foundation. “Facebook has really helped with people keeping up with our dates and happenings. The latest album sales have been from a much younger audience, especially with our more progressive sound. iTunes sales have helped with getting our music in the hands of young people.” The group’s younger audience is enjoying their brand of Southern Gospel and this is a positive reflection on the industry as a whole.

“One of the greatest attributes of Southern Gospel Music is that it's the only genre of music where artists get to interact personally with the fans,” says Bridgmon. “Nowhere else will you ever see an artist going to the product table or praying with someone in the audience. It's very unique and we're proud to be part of it.” Fans of all ages appreciate this aspect of Southern Gospel.

Firm Foundation’s songs have the ability to reach across age barriers and audience preferences. Interestingly, Bridgmon says that an old hymn performed by the group is one of the most well received. “The song that gets the most reaction from our audience has to be our acapella version of ‘How Great Thou Art’. I think it touches them because everyone has a story when it comes to this song. From your grandmother singing it while she's cooking on Sunday morning to walking down the aisle when you accepted Christ. The song is a staple in church music history.”

Aside from the onstage performance, there is a lot of hard work involved in presenting the music of Firm Foundation. Steve Bridgmon talks about the responsibility of managing the ministry of the quartet. “I'm thankful for the knowledge God has given me to make good decisions. I believe this is the core of accepting the responsibility of what God has called us to do in ministry. I'm also thankful to have 3 guys on the platform with me every week that I care about as deeply as brothers.”

New artists on the road today have many legends to look up to, artists who have made their mark in the industry. “Personally, my favorite singer in southern gospel music, hands down, is Gerald Wolfe,” says Bridgmon. “He sings so correctly and I really respect that. That's the way I learned how to sing. I never tire of listening to him. The sincerity in his voice is infectious. Every time I hear him sing, I am ready to hit the road again!” However, Bridgmon doesn’t see the group following in another artist’s footsteps. “We've pretty much blazed our own path in gospel music. I think that it is very important not to emulate someone else's career. God's way is the only way.”

Bridgmon says that although they have been blazing their own unique trail, the group has a support system to guide them. “My family has played a huge role in the ministry of Firm Foundation. At our CD release party this past February, for the first time in the history of the group, all four of us had our dads in attendance. None of us are married, which frees us up to travel as we please, but our immediate family is in prayer for us at all times.”

Recognizing the need for prayer and accountability, Bridgmon also has someone to go to for spiritual guidance. “Someone who has been a spiritual mentor to me is my pastor when I was in college, Scott Ford. He's a great Man of God who has been very true to his church and is respected by so many. I long to have the longevity that he's had in ministry. I've always been able to go to him at anytime, for anything and I appreciate that.”

“My greatest desire for the ministry of Firm Foundation is for people to see us as sincere and real,” continues Bridgmon. “We strive for God's guidance and reverence. If we stop being a warrior for God, we should stop doing this.”

Firm Foundation certainly has roots in the foundation of Jesus Christ and men like Steve Bridgmen and his quartet are destined to do great things for their Lord. It is heartening and encouraging to hear the heart’s cry of new artists who strive to do the will of God. Bridgmon expresses the conviction of the group with these words: “Every day, and I mean every day, I think about the blessings that He's brought down on us just this past year. Every time I hear our song on the radio I seriously get tears in my eyes. Don't take me wrong there, it’s not because we're getting played, but the huge responsibility He's given us and chosen us to do. That's so awesome to me. We will never take advantage of the doors He's opened for us or the responsibility of spreading His Word.”

For more information please log on to http://firmfoundationgospel.ipage.com/
Originally posted July 2010 on SGM Radio Website
For current features log on to http://www.sgmradio.com/
Written by Lorraine Walker

Retro Reality Check: Sit Down and Shut Up

[Editor's note: This Reality Check was published in February 2011 by SGM Radio website and was written by Lorraine Walker.]

Here it comes again. Can you feel the change in the wind? Another storm is approaching in your life to upset you and leave you shipwrecked emotionally, spiritually or even physically. You just wish Jesus would walk on water like He did in the Bible and say, “Peace!” to your storm. Well, maybe He is saying “Peace, be still”, but not to your storm. To you.

When Jesus said “Peace” that day in the Sea of Galilee, the word used at that time actually meant, “Silence! Hush! Be quiet!”. “Peace” meant an involuntary stillness, like telling an unruly child to sit down and shut up. It makes me wonder how much of that command was to the Sea, and how much was meant for the wailing disciples. With the amount of moaning and murmuring God must hear from us every time we are put out of our comfort zone, it’s no wonder He wants us to sit down, shut up, and listen to Him.

I’m not saying we don’t have reasons to be upset and angry about things that happen to us. I’m definitely not saying that we cannot question why ‘bad things happen to good people’. But maybe we spend too much time questioning, arguing and debating to hear any answer God may have for us. Jesus may be speaking to me right at the time I’m complaining, but my ears won’t work when my mouth is open.

If a child is acting out because they are hurt, they cannot receive the comfort being offered to them until they submit to the loving arms of the person trying to help. How similar this is to our relationship with our Lord. We keep acting out, from a feeling of pain or helplessness, yet we won’t submit to His arms of love. We know we will find comfort and peace there but we also know we give up whatever control we think we have. Sometimes we’d rather groan and complain and still think we can change the situation on our own. Perhaps one reason we enjoy our pity party is because we are the guest of honour.

It’s a hard thing to realize when a clear view of a bad situation turns inward to a feeling of victimization. It’s difficult because when we see ourselves as a victim, and others do too, again the focus is on us and it is human nature to like the attention. It takes a very strong person to admit their human frailty and run to God for strength and courage. Maybe we just don’t want to ask God for His deliverance because we don’t want to move on into the unknown glorious future. The ‘glorious’ part is lost on us; the ‘unknown’ part scares us to death.

Is your current storm causing you to cry out in fear and discouragement? Hear the words of Jesus: “Peace. Be quiet. Let Me talk to you in your situation and together we will get through it.” Listen to the Lord, sit down and shut up, and learn from the Master. The submission part may be really difficult, but would you rather drown?

Written by Lorraine Walker. First published in February 2011 on SGM Radio website.
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Retro Reality Check: The Faces of Love

Editor's Note: First published in February 2010

Love has many languages and also comes in many disguises. Among the faces of love are people like Mother Teresa, St. Francis of Assisi and Mary Magdalene. I’ve encountered some current faces of love that I wanted to share with you this month.

Stephen is a regular preacher who lives a regular life in a regular town. A few weeks ago, this town had an irregular snowstorm causing a lot of damage and loss of power. Stephen decided to shovel out the drive for the widow next door. He then headed to her neighbor’s house, owned by an 87-year-old lady who was also alone. Stephen shoveled her steps and walk, bringing her the mail that she had been unable to reach for several days. In the post was a check that the widow had been expecting for years, money that was desperately needed. She thanked Stephen and the Lord for giving her a good Christmas. She called him an ‘angel’ but Stephen said, ‘No, just a preacher with a shovel.’

William and Eunice have been married 70 years. The sweethearts have known each other all their lives, walking to school together, dating for a year and then marrying at 18 years of age. They pastored together for 50 years, raised a boy and girl, helped those in need and have been a blessing to all who have known them. Their road hasn’t been easy or carefree. Their son passed away twenty years ago. However, the years have been kind to this couple, their faces showing the results of lives well lived. William and Eunice radiate a love for God, for each other, and for those they meet.

I have a wonderful friend with a loving family and the gift of hospitality. In the last few years, she has undergone a battle that came close to taking her life several times. Walking through the wilderness of mental health issues, ‘Grace’ felt she had lost the love and presence of God in her life. Desperate and alone, she renounced the evil that had taken over her mind. Convinced there was no escaping an eternity of hell and separation from the Lord she loved, her days were a nightmare of voices, panic and terror.

Grace shared her story with a pastor and his wife. They spoke truth into her life, truth that was able to break the bonds that had ensnared her mind. Grace embraced this truth and realized that nothing could separate her from the love of God. She found that concentrating on the evil in her mind had kept her from running to the arms of her Savior. Her healing began on that day.

Today, through the love and mercy of a healing God, Grace is finding her way back to health. Her eyes radiate the peace and joy that once filled her life, but she is a changed person. Her thirst for more of God is greater than ever. She wants to know Him, to love Him with every fiber of her being. Grace had a calling on her life before entering the valley but now realizes that she is being refined as gold for the work that God has planned for her. Grace, in her desire to know more of God, exudes a love for Him that is powerful and humbling.

Love comes in many faces. I pray we seek to wear the face of the love of God in everything we do today.


Reality Check by Lorraine Walker first published February 2010 on SGM Radio Website
For current Reality Check features click on to http://www.sgmradio.com/lorraine-walker-reality-check/

Retro Reality Check: Define Love

By Lorraine Walker

Preparing an article for this time of year always gives me pause. How do I say in another way what Jesus demonstrated so many years ago, in a way so profound that words cannot express it? I did a quick, very unscientific poll on Facebook, asking my friends how they defined love. The respondents, all Christians, answered the same thing. Their best definition of love was “The Cross”.

There is no better definition of love, so this year I thought I would show another picture of love. Love comes in all shapes and sizes, colours and styles. The love of Jesus often shows up in unusual places and when you least expect it. Then again, shouldn’t we expect to find His love evident where things are the least lovely?

Back in November I was driving to work and stopped at a light in the middle of downtown. Crossing several lanes of traffic in front of me was an older gentleman, hurrying across the frigid pavement in bare feet. Not only was he without shoes, he was without pants and his shorts, t-shirt and plaid over shirt were extremely inadequate in the below freezing wind. I felt compassion for this individual but felt helpless as he wandered down the street out of my line of vision. The lights changed and I continued on to work, praying that someone would cross his path and help him.

Early December, I walked into work early one morning to find my coworker Bonnie collapsed on the floor. The next traumatic hour left a few scenes burned into my mind. Dialing 911, listening to Bonnie’s labored breathing, watching the emergency team efficiently working to bring back a pulse, scrambling to find identification and the number of a loved one. Kneeling by her side and praying for this lady who always had a smile on her face, a kind word for everyone and a positive enthusiasm for her work.

Unfortunately for us, the Lord chose this to be the beginning of Bonnie’s entrance to His home. During her funeral, our Chaplain mentioned everything about this lady who had become an integral part of our work lives. Her generosity to those who walked through our doors, her graciousness to those who asked for her assistance and her ability to make the office coffeemaker produce drinkable coffee were all mentioned, as well as her deep faith in God.

Bonnie wasn’t one to preach or talk ‘religious’. She wouldn’t volunteer an ‘I’ll pray for you’ and wasn’t comfortable with some protestant traditions. She and I didn’t really talk about our faith together. But Bonnie showed her love to others and this was evident in everything that was said about her.

One morning back in November, Bonnie was walking to work from her downtown home when she ran into an elderly gentleman. She went to speak to him and explained how he could find his way to our men’s shelter and find the help he needed. For you see, this man was hurrying down the street without shoes on. In fact, he hadn’t any pants either, and his shorts, t-shirt and plaid over shirt were extremely inadequate in the frigid temperatures. Bonnie reached out with the love of Christ when I was unable to.

I won’t forget Bonnie or the way the Lord used her life to teach me two valuable lessons. First, that life is precious and we shouldn’t let a chance to love someone pass us by. And second, if we see someone in need and are not able to do more than send up a prayer, chances are the Lord has prepared someone else to meet that need. Nothing surprises Him. After all, He wrote the book on Love.

By Lorraine Walker
Reality Check: Define Love first published February 2009 on SGM Radio website http://www.sgmradio.com/
For current Reality Check features click here http://www.sgmradio.com/lorraine-walker-reality-check/

Retro SGM Radio: Ladies of Southern Gospel: Women of Substance - Kim Greene Hopper

{Editor's Note: This feature was part of a series on the Ladies of Southern Gospel, run from 2007-2008 on SGM Radio Website, written by Lorraine Walker.]

Last month, we began a series on the awesome women in Southern Gospel Music. Women like Vestal Goodman, Eva Mae LeFevre and Mom Speer in the past to current legends like Connie Hopper, Lou Wills Hildreth and Elaine Wilburn. Women who have raised the bar of talent, faith and substance for those in the next generation.

This “next generation” includes women such as Karen Peck Gooch, Kim Greene Hopper and Susan Whisnant, who are now becoming legends in their own time. These true women of substance have not only developed their own talents, style and sound, they are also known for their Godly walk and their personal standards of morality. This month, SGM Radio had the privilege of talking to Kim Greene Hopper.

Kim Hopper’s story has been told many times, about the little girl with the big voice who sang with her family, who captured America and Dean Hopper with her smile and sweet spirit. The girl who went on to bring the Hoppers sound into the present decade with style, passion and a strong commitment to their Lord and their music.

A beautiful lady with many awards and years of being on the top of her profession, Kim has a gentle nature and professionalism that combine to give her an air of self-confidence without pride. This is a lady who has come to know who she is and Who she belongs to and is living her life to be the best she can be.

Kim Hopper knows that singing Gospel music was her calling. “I was five years old when I started singing. My whole family were singers and I grew up in that. My Dad played piano. When I was five, my two brothers and I stood around Dad and we had three-part harmony instantly. My Dad was kind of blown away! I grew up in it, loved it, and had the talent for it. I knew it was a gift from God and that’s all I ever wanted to do. I knew in my heart by the time I was 10 or 12 that this is what I wanted to do for my life.”

With such a successful career in Southern Gospel, Kim often has young people that want to know how to get started in the industry. Her advice is simple: “Every event you can sing at, do! Sing at every opportunity. There will be someone, somewhere that will hear you. If this is truly the gift God has given you.”

“Now sometimes, honestly, people say, “Oh, God called me to sing!” Well maybe that’s not your calling, maybe you are not quite the vocalist that someone else is and maybe your calling has something else to do with the music. Be clear of what your calling is. Then every opportunity that you have to sing, do so. Some one will be there that at some point will say, ‘Hey, I want to put you on a showcase or I want to do this or do that for you’.

“And then: Promotion! Start buying ads in magazines and promoting yourself. Get a great, quality CD or do demos and pass them along to artists and say, “If you ever need someone to open up for you, or if you are looking for a tenor singer, here’s my demo.” Just pass those out and get your name out there as much as you can.”

Kim commented on the number of talented up-and-coming groups in Southern Gospel right now. “There is a great new group that we brought to the National Quartet Convention from Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. They are The Hunters and they are five brothers with their Mom and Dad. The Hunters are very new and they don’t even have a CD out yet but they are working on one. The boys range in age from 14 to 27, and they are all professional hockey players.”

“I call them the ‘Backstreet Boys of Southern Gospel Music’”, says Kim. “ They dance a little bit and they are incredible. The older people and the younger people are accepting them, they all seem to love them.”

Many of the young singers today look up to Kim Hopper as the epitome of female Southern Gospel Singers. Kim herself had those that she looked up to when she was learning the ropes. Reba Rambo, Joy McGuire, and Debbie Talley were among her favourites.

“Debbie made a real impression on my life, not just as a spiritual lady but vocally as well. When I first started singing, I didn’t have a real high voice. When my brothers’ voices changed and I had to go to the real high part, I didn’t know how to do that. I tried and I was killing myself. Every night I was getting more hoarse. So I would sit and listen when Debbie was singing with the Hoppers… I would listen to their records and cassettes for hours and hours. I’d think, ‘She talks in my range but she sings really high, how does she do that?’”

“I would sit and mimic her tone placement every night and figure out how she was doing that. That was the only vocal coaching I ever had, just Debbie’s records and cassettes. So she made the most difference in my life, vocally, of anyone.”

Just as Kim had people like Reba Rambo and Debra Talley as role models, Kim comments on those of her generation who would be “legends” to the next generation.
“Karen Peck Gooch, Debra Talley and Sheri Easter, all these ladies that have been devoted to this and have done this so long. They are here all these years because of their integrity and their walk with the Lord. I think as each of them ages, there will be a lot of people that say, ‘I remember when I saw them when I was little’, and now they’ve grown to respect them as spiritual leaders and forces in our industry.”

The idea that Southern Gospel is a more challenging industry to thrive in for women than it is for men has been bandied about for some time. Kim disagrees with this notion. “ I think a lot of people love and admire the men, but when a woman walks on stage, it’s like sudden respect. Boys have grown up listening to their mommas teach them to respect women. And women respect other women.”

“I think there is a lot of grace when a woman walks onstage. People think, ‘You know what, she’s up there as a woman, doing what she is doing in front of all these crowds of people, and I want to hear what she has to say’.”

Kim Hopper has some specific advice for the young female artists coming up in the industry. “Don’t ever do anything that would offend anyone. For some people, it’s all about ‘You can’t wear pants to church, you can’t do this, you can’t do that’. What I’ve found out is that some things may not convict me, such as to wear pants onstage, but that is me personally. However, I grew up where we never wore pants to church. My Mother and Dad always said, ‘Why don’t you just play the safe side in every situation’. That would include the way you dressed, because if you do offend one person, then you will never reach them for Christ.”

“So I’ve always tried to dress modestly and I like to be fashionable and I work at that. But I always try to be fully covered and I always sing in a dress. I just think that to be a lady is the biggest thing.”

Kim Greene Hopper is involved in many aspects of Southern Gospel, as she has been doing some promotion as well as her traveling, singing and studio work. This busy wife, mother, sister, and Gospel icon has a full life. She has heard the Lord speaking to her lately about this very thing. “I’m a Mom and I have to devote so much time to Southern Gospel, and so much time to my children, and a lot of times I’m really torn. For me, the Lord is saying, ‘Slow Down! Slow down and listen to Me and know that I am God. Rest in what I have for you.’”

“I hope that my schedule can slow down a little that I can be more of a Mom. I feel like when I’m on the road, I’m neglecting my children, and when I’m home, I’m neglecting what I need to do out here to minister to people. So the Lord is speaking to me about finding the balance and finding rest in Him.”

Kim Greene Hopper struggles with the same issues that many working wives and mothers deal with, and it is her ability to face challenges with grace while in the spotlight of the stage that has brought her the admiration of so many. Truly a woman of substance, Kim Greene Hopper will be another of the lovely women whose name will be listed as a legend of Southern Gospel.

For more information on Kim and all the Hoppers, please log onto http://www.thehoppers.com/

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Retro Reality Check: Finding a Piece of Peace

By Lorraine Walker

There is something about the start of a new year that brings a feeling of restlessness. Maybe it’s the whole resolution thing, maybe it’s the advertisements that tell me I need to get organized, or maybe it’s the knowledge that I can no longer hide the clutter in my house under Christmas decorations. January means that it’s back to routine, time to start on those promises you made to yourself and time to catch up on whatever you put off during the holidays.

In the middle of all this energetic, back-to-reality, stressful living, I often find myself longing for the peaceful moments of watching lights twinkle on a tree or gazing at the face of a sleeping baby in a manger. And I wonder why this seems to elude me for much of the year.

It’s true that often we blame what is happening around us for the lack of peace in our lives when in reality it is the other way around. If we can’t find the peace in our lives, we have to look within for what is causing the disquiet. This is not an easy concept to grasp if you feel like things are spinning out of control and there is nothing for you to hold on to.

It amazes me when God has to smack me in the face with a truth that I’ve learned but have to keep relearning, over and over: I do indeed have control over my emotions, and I am also told to have control over my thoughts. I may have to tell my soul to rejoice, and often it is also an act of my will to experience God’s peace. Paul told us to LET the peace of God rule in our hearts. This tells me that if I am not experiencing God’s peace in my life it is because, for whatever reason, I am not letting His peace rule.

Last month I mentioned that Hope came to earth in a manger. Peace dwells in the same Person as Hope, and these two gifts from God dwell within us the same way. The apostle Paul also said, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

My New Year’s resolution this year? To let peace rule. Before there can be peace on earth, it must first be in me.

First published by SGM Radio website in January 2008. http://www.sgmradio.com/
For current Reality Checks visit http://www.sgmradio.com/lorraine-walker-reality-check/

Retro SGM Radio: 2010 Reality Check - New Year, New Day

By Lorraine Walker

Have you made your New Year’s resolutions yet, or are you one of many who simply refuse? Are you working on a resolution that you’ve been trying to keep since 1995? The start of a new, shiny, unused year seems to twig something inside us, making us want to be shiny and new as well.

Jeff and Sheri Easter used to sing a catchy tune called: Every Day Is a New Day. A sweet, simple song but a great reminder that not only is every year new, but every day is new too. We can have a fresh start every morning. We can look at the day as a new chance to be a better person or to do something worthwhile, no matter where we are in life.

I’m so glad that God ‘makes His mercies new every morning’, and that His well of grace never runs dry, no matter how often I need to come to Him for forgiveness and for the strength to get back up and walk again after I’ve fallen. I’m glad that each day is another chance to follow Him more closely.

I used to think the verse that talks about ‘denying’ ourselves and ‘taking up the Cross’ meant being willing to be identified with Christ while taking on His burden. And it does, but it also means to deny myself: to be willing to put aside the ‘me’ that always wants to be in charge. I need to be willing to put aside my wants, desires, hopes and dreams and to allow Jesus to place His dreams in my heart.

A friend of mine recently commented that she was wondering if she was wrong in wanting to follow her dreams and what she wanted in life. She commented that she thought she was perhaps being too much like Satan who wanted his own way and who dwelt on the pride that made him put himself on the throne got him kicked out of Heaven.

The Lord gave me words at the time that I’ve thought about often in the days following, as the message was to me as much as it was to my friend.

My response was that as we grow closer to the Lord, He replaces our desires with His. He has already given us talents and skills for specific reasons and I believe He has a special purpose for each of us. As we follow Him and deny ourselves, He places His hopes and dreams inside our hearts, and they become ours. As we place Him on the throne of our lives, we begin to live an abundant life, following the dreams of the God of the Universe. Rather incredible, isn’t it?

The secret to following, I believe, is knowing that every day is fresh chance to draw closer to God. It is a chance to allow Him to see everything that is in our hearts, good and bad. Each day is a chance to let Him to shine His light on the things in our lives that aren’t what they should be, and to draw us to repentance.

Oswald Chambers talks about ‘conscious repentance’ and ‘unconscious holiness’. The more we allow God to be on the throne of our life, the more He will show us what things need to be tossed out of our lives through repentance. That brings us closer to Him and allows Him to shine through us. The closer we follow, the more others don’t see us but see the One we are following. That is true holiness. And every day is another day closer to that goal.

May the Lord bless you in this New Year and may each new day draw you closer to Him.

Reality Check first published by SGM Radio website January 2010. http://www.sgmradio.com/

For the current Reality Check, click on to http://www.sgmradio.com/2014/01/15/reality-check-noah/

Reality Check: Blue Christmas

I need to confess from the outset that I am usually a very traditional decorator at Christmas. Usually it’s just red and green, silver and gold; heavy on the tinsel and icicles, light on the more modern baubles, and definitely no blue or purple. This year I have an urge to decorate in blue and it really doesn’t have anything to do with Elvis. It is not totally a reflection of my mood either, although Christmas will be a little blue this year with one empty chair at the family Christmas table.

For some, this blue feeling at Christmas is a little deeper than missing someone or feeling stressed because of the season. For those that are suffering from an overwhelming inescapable sadness, I urge you to talk to your medical doctor and your pastor. Chronic depression is not something you should try to fight alone, but look at holistically: spirit, soul and body. There are professionals who can bring you relief and peace. Please, seek them out. If you know of someone who may need your support to reach out for this type of assistance, please lend them that support.

If you are wanting to reach out to someone you know who is having a blue Christmas this year because of circumstances including loss, can I offer a few suggestions? Don’t expect them to call you. Call them with a few thoughts of how to guide them into conversation but don’t try to analyze or pepper them with questions. Drop by with some homemade goodies but don’t infringe on their time, unless they are alone and want to chat. Most of all, be open and sensitive to how they are feeling; don’t come with your own agenda or pre-supposed ideas of what you think they are feeling.

If this Christmas has you feeling blue or wondering what God has in store for your life, remember the eternal Hope that entered the world on that first Christmas. Jesus brought Hope to the world and this becomes a personal Hope when He is born within us.

If your trust is wavering because things have happened in the past year that have hurt you, that is a reason to draw closer to Him, not farther away. I’m so thankful we don’t serve a Santa Claus God who only exists to give us what we want. When He doesn’t answer our prayers the way we believe He should, it shouldn’t cause our Hope in Him to waver. We need to pray that He will strengthen our faith in that Hope.

Whatever colour your Christmas is this year, I trust that you draw closer to the Hope that was born in Bethlehem and that His light will shine on your heart and turn your life all the colours of the rainbow. He wants you to overflow with Hope and abundant life.

From my heart to yours, Merry Christmas!

First published Christmas 2010. By Lorraine Walker. For more Reality Check blogs, go to http://www.sgmradio.com/

Give Thanks Today!

Fall in Southern Ontario: watch the sun light up the reds and golds of the leaves in the trees; smell the tangy sent of burning leaves; feel the nip in the air as frost touches the land. Though it portends a cold, desolate winter, the season itself is bright and beautiful as nature splashes her paintbrush once more before slipping it under a blanket of snow.

I let the loveliness of the season wash over me and it helps to break the cycle of the rush of work, the duties of the day, and the cares of life. If you are like me, you need the special season of Thanksgiving as a reminder to stop and be thankful. In everything, we are to give thanks. As I hear the squeal of my brakes, I thank the Lord that car bills mean I have transportation to work. The sound of the rain on the rafters reminds me that I have a roof over my head and means to pay for that roof. I may have paperwork piled up on my desk at work, but I have a meaningful job that gives me a reason to step out of my door every morning.

So often in the Old Testament, we are told to give thanks to God, for ‘His love endures forever’. Enduring Love: Another great thing to be thankful for in this day of short attention spans and diluted commitments of love.

In the New Testament, the writers of the letters to the Church body often say that they give thanks to God ‘for you all’. We need to be reminded to be thankful for our fellow brothers and sisters in Jesus. They are the Body of Christ, our spiritual family, and God has given us a great opportunity to develop relationships with other believers. It is up to us to develop those relationships and to thank God for them.

There are more simple things that come to mind that we often overlook, things we forget to thank the Lord for as we bring to Him our latest laundry list of wants and needs. Family, health, skill and talent, spiritual gifts are all good and perfect blessings from a Father who loves us.

May we all take a moment this Fall to stop and thank our Heavenly Father for what He has given to us. Let us thank Him for what He has done through the gift of His Son. Let us thank Him most of all for Who He is. For His love endures forever.

Reality Check Blog by Lorraine Walker
Also appears on www.sgmradio.com

Retro SGM Radio: Reality Check - The Day Of Little Things

The Day of Little Things

Do you ever have one of those days? You feel like you are spinning your wheels. Nothing you do is amounting to anything and no matter how much effort you put into what you are doing, you see no results at all. I was thinking about this the other day while relaxing on vacation. Yes, I was thinking while on vacation and that can be dangerous as there is nothing to stop my mind from going on all kinds of tangents.

I was taking stock of my activities and the way I spend my time and I began to wonder if some of the things I pour myself into are really worth the effort. It began to feel as though my spare time was filled with little things which were not bringing visible results. If the Lord was in these activities that I felt I was doing for Him, why weren’t they bearing any fruit?

During this time of reflection I happened to be reading through the Minor Prophets in the Bible, those little books to the right of the Psalms that I usually overlook. It seemed as though the remnant of Israel were going through the same frustrating thoughts. They had been working away at rebuilding their temple that had been destroyed and saw little results for their effort. The prophet Zechariah speaks up to remind them that the Lord has not forgotten them and they will eventually see the fruits of their labour.

The Lord speaks through this prophet to show the Israelites that what they see in their own eyes is not the future that He sees for them. Though the day seems full of “small things”, they are encouraged not to despise their tasks or become discouraged but instead begin to see it with His eyes.

When the Lord has given us work for our hands to do, He can see the results of those tasks long before we do. Sometimes He allows us a vision of what can happen when we fully trust Him to make something worthwhile of our efforts. Even when He doesn’t, we need to be reminded that He does remember us and has a purpose for everything we do.

As I put the work of my hands back into the Lord’s care daily, I am comforted with the knowledge that He will bring something good out of the work I do for Him. What appears to be a day of small things may actually result in big things for His Kingdom. This knowledge makes each task and each day worthwhile.

Reality Check for August 2008 By Lorraine Walker
Published in SGM Radio http://www.sgmradio.com/

For Current Reality Checks, check SGM Radio every month! http://www.sgmradio.com/category/lorraine-walker-reality-check/

Retro SGM Radio: Jim Mahalick in 2007

Jim Mahalick: Sharing Hope

Following the National Quartet Convention in 2005, Jim Mahalick, five-year baritone for the popular Hoskins Family, made a decision that would change his life completely. He stepped away from the family group to walk a new path and to start a solo ministry. With the release of “New Hope Road”, Jim’s blend of Southern Gospel and Christian country is bringing a wide range of audience and an exciting new direction for this young artist. SGM Radio was able to catch up with him for a chat about this life-altering decision.

Pictured: Jim Mahalick performs with The Hoskins Family

Based in Chicago Illinois, Jim Mahalick was traveling full-time with the Hoskins as well as working in a studio at home. Jim explains, “ I was getting so busy in the studio that I had to do something. I decided this would be a good time [for a change]. I was getting married, so I would be able to go and do solo work and still have time to run my studio. So after a lot of prayer, I made the decision and stayed with the Hoskins until the end of December [2005]. Then in January I began work on a new solo project.”

The first release from the project, “New Hope Road” is “First Day in Heaven”, written by Jim. Scheduled for release in January 2007, this tune describes a little boy who passes from this life and goes to his reward. “You hear so many sad stories about children dying, this one is from Heaven’s point of view. He tells his Mom and Dad, ‘Don’t worry about me’, and talks about the exciting things he sees’.

Also starting in 2007, Mahalick plans to tour with a live band to bring the songs from “New Hope Road” to a growing number of appreciative listeners. It’s been a change for him to travel as a soloist. “When I was singing with the Hoskins Family, there were four people on stage and only a certain amount of time for each individual to minister. The Lord has been [developing] that area in my heart, the desire and ability to minister.”

Jim’s desire to reach the hearts of his audience with the love of Jesus is evident in his approach to his music and his graciousness with fans that stop by his booth. An air of authenticity pervades his music and his actions; his gentle manner and speech are a testament to his faith. As we discuss his career and music, Jim shares a dream he believes was from God, one that still fills him with awe.

“I was driving my truck along this rural road and I saw a row of trophies along the side. You know you usually see wreaths and flowers of where people died, only instead, these were large trophies. And on top of each trophy was a cross. And as I kept driving, I would see more and more and more. And as I came over a hill, I saw just a pile of trophies.”

”I believe the Lord was trying to show me that all these people we touch along the way… when we come to the end of the ‘road’ we will be able to look back and see the treasure that we have, we’ll know that what we did was worth it all. And that’s what I look forward to.” It’s not an easy life that Jim has chosen, but he says, “When you get on the stage, and you are ministering, and they are ministering to you, that’s what makes it worthwhile.”

Jim currently travels with his wife Danielle, a Virginia native, who he met at Crabbfest 2005. A sweet and gracious lady, Danielle has a full-time job in Chicago but is still able to go with Jim to his engagements. “That is so awesome. The Lord worked out a way that I would be able to do these things”, Jim says, “ And it is so awesome to be able to travel with my wife. I never knew what that meant until I experienced it, but that is such an incredible blessing.”

Jim’s dad pastors the Mahalick’s home church in Chicago and whenever the Mahalicks aren’t on the road, they are in a service and often Jim is singing. He stresses the importance of needing a home base where you can be spiritually fed. “That’s one of the mistakes people make [not attending church]. When you give and give, you need somewhere to receive. That’s one of the top priorities in my ministry, to be in church as often as I can.”

Prayer is also a top priority in Jim’s life in order to keep his relationship with the Lord strong and growing. “God knows our weaknesses, and it’s our job as individuals to know our weaknesses, and to know how much we need Him.” Jim feels the Lord has been talking to him a lot lately about recognizing his need for Him and being accountable to Him, both in life and ministry.

“I see that there are so many people, unfortunately a lot of young people, who don’t feel accountable to anything. They don’t believe in God, they don’t believe they need help with anything. And when you are in that state, that’s about the worst condition to be in, because when you aren’t accountable to anyone, you don’t have any fear. And I think it’s important to fear God, to have something to fear and something to be accountable to. It just makes me afraid for our country.”

”I wish there was something we could do…somehow we could make people realize there is a God and there is Someone we are accountable to. I pray for our younger generation. I went to a public school growing up and I saw a lot of things. I know there are people growing up in the next generation who are seeing things that even I never saw. I really pray for our young people. I want to see them have a deep experience with God to be able to withstand what Satan is throwing at them.”

Jim is finding that his music has a wide appeal and sees many young people attending his concerts. “A lot of young people that wouldn’t normally listen to Southern Gospel music come up to me after a concert and say, ‘I don’t really listen Southern Gospel, but I really like your singing’, which makes me feel good because I realize I made a good impression for Southern Gospel, because this is great music! There is not another music [style] in the world that talks directly to your heart more than Southern Gospel. It’s encouraging to see more young people enjoying this kind of music. As time goes on the music will change, but I hope we never lose sight of the vision. ”

As Jim Mahalick travels from church to church, sharing his style of Southern Gospel and message of hope, he is continuing this vision. His music is speaking to hearts of all ages and he is leading people to that experience with Christ that will bring lasting treasure.

For more information on Jim’s schedule and new project, “New Hope Road”, click on: www.jimmahalick.com .

SGM Radio Feature for January 2007 by Lorraine Walker

Jim Mahalick is back touring and has just released a new single, Expecting A Mountain. Check his website for current information! http://www.jimmahalick.com/

For Current Artist Features Click http://www.sgmradio.com/

Watch for SGN Scoops October Edition for Exciting News on Jim Mahalick! http://www.sgnscoops.com/

Being Salty

SGM Radio Blog – Mini Reality Check
By Lorraine Walker
August 3, 2012

Being Salty

We are the salt of the earth and a light on a hill. Jesus said so in the scripture, that we were to remain salty and not hide our light. I pondered this today and thought, ‘What does that mean for me?’

The owner of Chick–Fil-A certainly was a little too salty for some people’s taste recently when he stood up for the Biblical interpretation of marriage, free speech and religious freedom. However, many saw his stand and praised God at the light he was producing. God rewarded him and his business with an incredible showing of support on August 1.

In my current situation of sick leave from my job, I rarely come into contact with people other than my family. So I looked at the verses about salt and light and I was unsure how I could be following God’s command right now, today. Then He began to show me.

When I talk to my family am I loving, understanding and selfless? Am I thinking about them or just my own problems?

When I go out to the drug store, do I smile at strangers? Would I make way for someone else in line? Do I tell off another driver for cutting in front of me?

When I communicate on-line with friends, acquaintances and co-workers, am I honest and trustworthy? Do I keep my word on what I have said I will do?

I guess it all comes down to integrity, morals and being the consistent Christian that I should be. May God help me to be saltier today. If we all were, imagine how we could affect our world?

Retro Reality Check: Friends in the Garden

“They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." He took Peter, James and John along with Him, and He began to be deeply distressed and troubled. "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death," He said to them. "Stay here and keep watch."

Going a little farther, He fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him…Then He returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Simon," He said to Peter, "are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

Once more He went away and prayed the same thing. When He came back, He again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to Him.
Returning the third time, He said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!" Mark 14:32-42

This evening that seems so momentous in our eyes began as any other. The disciples had spent a quiet evening with Jesus, their friend and teacher, doing what they normally do. Yes, there were some strange moments, such as the incident with Judas who suddenly left the room. They watched as Jesus began to wash their feet like a common servant. The meal itself was a little odd, with His words about the wine and the bread. But otherwise, it was an evening of eating and fellowship and discussion with this One who had taught them so many things.

The disciples followed Jesus out to the Garden of Gethsemane. This was nothing out of the ordinary either. Luke tells us this was what Jesus was “accustomed” to doing. But then, the Master asks for the company of His closest friends, Peter, James, and John. In the moment of His deepest grief, He needs to know that those on earth with whom He shares the closest bond, are awake and praying for Him and sharing in His distress.

The disciples, who are by this time tired and full, are lulled by the peace in the Garden and their eyes fall shut. Jesus comes back to them three times. Each time, they are asleep. The third time, they are awakened by a scene that would change their lives forever.

Whenever I’ve read this part of the Easter story I’ve wondered: what was wrong with those guys? Didn’t they know Jesus was upset? He asked them to stay awake, why didn’t they? When the guards with their swords and the mob and the violence happen, why didn’t they stay? They’d been with Jesus for three years and professed love and allegiance to Him. Where was that loyalty?

I honestly believe that they didn’t understand the importance of this evening, and were unable to discern the seriousness of the Master’s request. When Jesus implores them to stay awake, they try, but are unable to. Then when the moment of truth arrives they are unprepared, half asleep, and scared to death. Their Friend knew this would happen; yet He implores them to watch, to pray and to resist temptation. In His hour of need, His friends are unable to stand with Him.

Have you been in a place of turmoil and upset in your life when everything is crashing around you? The near future is dark and your distress causes you to cry out. You look to your closest friends for help, for support, for consolation. And in that moment, in that time of intense crisis, for whatever reason, you cannot reach them. The feeling of isolation is crushing.

The Bible teaches us that Jesus was as fully man as He was fully God, and I believe He felt that isolation from His closest friends. Even as He began to realize that moment of the “Cup” had come, He understood the frailty and humanness of His disciples. Through the pain and distress of knowing what would immediately follow, He sees into their hearts and understands their weaknesses.

How God-like to be in that position and still reach out with words of faith to His friends. So often we need the comfort and care of our friends when we are in crisis and find it impossible to reach out to others. Our vision is inward and we see only our own situation and pain. When others don’t respond to us as we feel they should, we often react with anger or bitterness and push them away.

How incredible it is to know that when the Son of God was facing torture and death, His thoughts were toward His human friends. Even now, He calls each of us “friend” that follows Him. How comforting it is to know that He is faithful and true regardless of circumstances, and more loyal than we could ever be. Regardless of our actions, He continues to reach out to us, showing us true friendship. What an example for us to follow, both in relationship to others, and our relationship to the ultimate Friend.

By Lorraine Walker
First published April 2007 by http://www.sgmradio.com

For current Reality Check posts, please visit http://www.sgmradio.com

Retro SGM Radio: Southern Gospel's Young Artist Feature - July 2007

Since the beginning of Southern Gospel, groups have consisted of every age, from the old to the young. Second and third generation singers have been brought up through the ranks of family groups like the Happy Goodmans, the Rambos, the Hoppers and the McKameys. Today more than ever, we are seeing a burst of youth on the Southern Gospel scene and these young people are making their mark for their generation. With a desire to reach the lost, hone their talents, and present a fresh new sound, the new wave of Southern Gospel is taking the best of the past and forming it into a style that is finding an increasingly larger audience.

SGM Radio recently talked to some of these Young Gospel artists, and asked them to share their hearts with us. Each one we talked to has their own story to share, just as each has their own style of music and how they see Southern Gospel. We hope you enjoy an insight into the music and souls of Young Gospel.

The questions we asked the Young Gospel artists were: What is the biggest challenge facing your generation in Southern Gospel? And, what is the biggest challenge of having a career in music? Here are their answers.

Stewart Varnado, The Dixie Echoes (pictured above): “I don't really know of any challenge facing my generation in SG. I think it was probably hard for those in the early days of SG, but we've got it made compared to them [eg] Buses instead of cars. Other than being away from home sometimes too much. I can't think of any reason to complain.” www.stewartvarnado.com

Daniel Ball, The Ball Brothers: “The biggest challenge we face is trying to reach our generation. We have the challenge of bringing in new fans or Southern Gospel music will die out. For us, we'll continue to honor the tradition of those who have gone before us, yet at the same time carve our own new paths with our music. God is constantly opening new doors for us that are bigger than we ever dreamed. We are excited about what the future holds for the Ball Brothers and all of Southern Gospel.” www.theballbrothers.com

Jason Funderburk, Driven: “"I feel the biggest challenge facing our generation in Southern Gospel Music is for people to take us serious about what we do. It is easy for me to feel that a good many people look at us like we are trying to change the way it used to be, but in reality we are trying to worship just as they did or in some cases worship period.
"The biggest challenge in having a career in music is that people or fans in general only get to see about 20% of what it takes to travel and be a singer, musician. They see us grace a platform, sing and then talk to people, but the hard part really takes place the week before and after in preparation for a concert, not including before and after a concert.
“If not for the fans and Southern Gospel supporters we would have a more difficult time trying to present our ministries to a group of folks that have never experienced a true anointed filled evening of music and worship". www.drivenqt.com

Kevin Mills, Soloist: “[The biggest challenge facing my generation is] changing Southern Gospel music to fit into today’s market-place without overly compromising the originality of it’s sound. [The biggest challenge of having a career in music is] Ego. This is something that everyone is at risk of in any career but it especially becomes predominant in an overly public profession such as the music industry. I’m not talking about confidence, since there is nothing wrong with realizing and taking gratification for something you feel you accomplish well (i.e. work, job, performance, etc.) . Ego becomes detrimental when it isolates you from those around you. Pride, or thinking about yourself “higher then you ought” really will bring you to a fall. That is why we must run to Christ and realize who we are in Him: A creature created in His image and for His Glory. We were never meant to live our lives pursuing our own motives and careers, but rather to strive to glorify God in all we do.” www.kevinmillsusa.com

Aaron Minnick, The Johnny Minnick Family: “The biggest challenge we face is making sure there will be a ‘Gospel Music’ in the future. We need to do things that will grow the industry, pull in new listeners and carry the Gospel to those who would otherwise not listen to the message.” www.aaronminick.com

Josh Singletary, Tribute Quartet: “I think the largest challenge that faces my generation in Southern Gospel music is getting the older generations to see how serious we are about this music. I come from a generation that is influenced by MANY genres of music - And good music. You can't really get away from the music of today. Everywhere you go, there it is. But, I think sometimes it's assumed that because we are of a younger generation, we let those outside influences influence what our heart truly is...and that’s simply not the case. I, along with many other young people in this industry, TRULY want to see souls saved and to sing God's message through a music that we love - Southern Gospel.
“The biggest challenge in having a career in music, I think, is, well, money - to put it bluntly. It can be pretty tough at times. I've always said, "You have to be called to do this. AND you have to love doing this because, if you're not and you don't, you're nuts!" It really is a matter of trusting the Lord...And he has NEVER let me down. The payoff is out of this world!” www.tributequartet.com



Mike Kofahl, Austin’s Bridge: “I think the biggest challenge facing our generation and Southern Gospel is that there are not nearly enough who know about it. What we
have found is that our generation is constantly bombarded by media encouraging them to listen to anything and every thing but SG music. This is why I feel it our responsibility to reach out to them and show them that there is great music being made in southern gospel,
that caries a message of hope.” www.austinsbridge.com

We hope you’ve enjoyed this insight into the world of Young Gospel. Be sure to hear these artists the next time they are in your area and support the next generation of Southern Gospel Music.

By Lorraine Walker
First published July 2007 on http://www.sgmradio.com

For current artist features, please go to http://www.sgmradio.com

Retro SGM Radio: Savana Foust - Still Writing Love Songs

Still Writing Love Songs: Savana and Lou Foust

Savana Foust has written hundreds of Southern Gospel favorites, including Somebody Touched Me, Blood Washed Band, Somebody Touched Heaven For Me and many more. At 84, Ms. Foust is still writing the love song of her life with her husband, Lou Foust. Their daughter, Cindi Foust Wolfe, shared her mother’s love story with SGM Radio. We share this valentine with you as written by Cindi:

It was an extremely cold winter in February of 1945 when our love story began. Some may have thought of these days as gloomy, with our country coming out of the great depression into World War II. But with all that seemed wrong in the world, our world seemed so right.

A few days before Valentines, I met the man who would eventually become my husband. We were introduced by a mutual friend, but we were teenagers, so no one took us too seriously. I knew from the moment he reached for my hand, that I'd found the man I'd be with for the rest of my life.
Months later, with $5 between us, our journey began....

We had no money. I guess we would have been called 'poor' by today's standards, but we were rich in one way: our Love. We found out early what it really meant to find true love. It didn't mean we drove the finest car, lived in the biggest house, or even had lots of money in our bank account. In actuality, we had none of these, but we had God first and each other. So during the hard times, we learned to trust God, and through our faith in God, our love story has lasted!

Ten years after we married, our daughter, Cindi, whom the doctors said never would happen, was born. Almost ten years after that, we were blessed with the son, Johnny, that God had planned.
In the giving of these gifts, He sent us three grandchildren, Stania, Christian and Drew. And from there we have three great-grandchildren: Alexis, Zoe and Cameron.

So, I guess you could say that we are blessed beyond measure with love from above and each other.
We just celebrated 65 years of marriage in December. Our steps are smaller now and our eyes aren't quite as bright as they were long ago, but when he looks at me, I still see that tall young man that stole my heart many years ago.

So I reach for his hand again today, knowing he'll hold on tight and not let me fall. I pray that when we go Home, we go together, because I don't know what my life would be like without him. And I thank God daily for sending him to me to create the Love Story that's lasted through time.

By Cynthia Foust Wolfe: Written about my parents, Lou and Savana Foust
Reprinted by permission.
Pictures courtesy Cynthia Foust Wolfe

First Published 2011 February for SGM Radio
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Retro Reality Check: The "L" Word

What’s Love Got To Do With It: A Conversation with God

God, I just don’t get it. Since the beginning of January, all I have seen are pink hearts and naked angels with arrows. Everyone uses the “L” word as if it’s a common commodity and as lasting as red sugar candies. I’ve never been able to say that word easily, yet others don’t seem to have a problem with it. People sing about it, quote poems about it and tell me that it’s all we need.

Since You ARE love, Lord, I thought I’d just ask You about Your thoughts on the subject. I guess what I’m saying is, “I want to know what love is. I want You to show me…”

“My Child, it’s all there, in black and white. Love is…” What, Lord? Please tell me, I really do want to know. Don’t keep me in suspense.

“Love is patient.” Oh. Really? You know I’ve always had a problem with the whole waiting thing. I guess that means that when You have made me a promise that I haven’t received, it’s because in Your love, You want me to learn to wait. That’s really not one of my strengths! And I suppose You are saying I need to apply this in my relationships. You know it’s not easy for me. But please, go on…tell me more.

“Love is kind.” I guess often patience and kindness go together, don’t they? If I picture someone taking care of a hurting child, you definitely need both of these qualities to minister to that child. It does seem that there are many people who find it easier than I do to demonstrate their love, their kindness, and their patience in everyday life. When I compare myself to them, I find myself getting jealous of others and their abilities.

“Love does not envy.” Ok, so I guess if I’m not to be envious of others, I need to stop comparing myself with them, is that what You’re saying? If love does not envy, then love keeps me from judging others and myself, and finding myself lacking in something. You have given me every good and perfect gift. I guess if I’d look through the eyes of love, I’d see that this was true.

“Love does not boast and it is not proud.” Well, that makes sense. If You have given me everything, and I am not to compare what I don’t have with others who seem to have it all, then the opposite must also hold true. I shouldn’t take pride in what I have and boast about it. Because whatever it is, whether it’s material or talents, it all comes from You. And I guess that does away with the whole pride issue too. Ok, tell me more…

“Love is not rude and it is not self-seeking.” This seems like a no-brainer to me, of course love is not rude! Of course, there are always those who are rude without seeming to notice… The other half of that comment is not quite so simple. I have to admit that sometimes in my relationships I have certain expectations. It’s almost an unconscious comparison of what I put into the relationship compared to what I get out of it. I guess what this means to me is that I need to stop putting that kind of a price tag on my love for others. Wow, now that’s starting to hit a nerve.

“Love is not easily angered and it keeps no record of wrongs”. There are times when certain relationships have put me on edge and it’s largely a result of what You and I just talked about. When I feel I’ve put more into something than I’m getting out of it, my feelings become raw and my ego is on the line. I guess I am easily angered at that point. I don’t think I keep a record of wrongs and then my buttons are pushed and I explode. Suddenly I find myself spewing out how I felt I was wronged for the last twenty years! Lord, this discussion is becoming painfully honest, but I know You have more for me to learn. Please go on…

“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” Even when the truth hurts? I guess that it is still preferable to evil. I find it hard to believe that someone would delight in evil but I know there are those around us that do. We can even see evil in people who proclaim to love You. Help me to be one of those who seek truth and rejoice in it.

“Love always protects and always trusts.” I admit I have learned to be protective of what is placed in my care by those I have a relationship with. I have learned the hard way to protect the love, trust and confidences that are shared with me because it hurts so much when that protection is not offered in return. However, there are many times I have found it hard to trust others. I guess that’s one reason I have difficulty with the “L” word. When trust is broken, it’s hard to get it back.

“Love always hopes.” Lord, I want to be hopeful and share Your hope with others. I see that You want Your love to renew my trust and hope in those around me. I know this will strengthen my relationship with others. I guess I’m just saying that I really need Your hope because things don’t always look that promising in my world. But what happens when my trust and hope in relationships gets blown out of the water again?

“Love always perseveres.” Always? ‘Always perseveres’, Lord? That’s a tall order. I need to love and keep on loving regardless of what happens, regardless of broken faith and promises? I know I can’t do that on my own. This has to be supernatural love. It certainly isn’t the fluffy stuff mirrored in the pop culture of our world. Thank You that Your love persevered, Lord. I know it was love that took You to the Cross. Help me remember that when I feel like throwing in the towel.
“Love never fails.” There is that “never” word again. It has to be a spiritual power to be able to use a word that is so absolute. Thank You that Your love never fails. Help me to draw on that power when I feel like giving up. Help me remember that every time I fail at living out this type of Godly love.

“Does this answer your questions about love?” Well, yes, but it seems like such a tall order. Your love enables me to love You back, in my own fallible way. Is it even possible for me as a human being to demonstrate this love to others?

“It is possible. Others will know that you follow Me by the love you show them. Do you love Me? Feed my sheep”. It does seem that Your love is more of an action than a feeling, Lord. Help me to be Your hands and feet to a world that needs You.

“Has this answered your question? Do you know now what love has to do with it?” I think I’ve figured it out, God. If I can paraphrase the words of your beloved disciple John, You ask us to love another, for love comes from You. Everyone who loves has been born of You, knows You, and is obedient to You. Whoever does not love does not know You, because You are love.”

“And how do you know this? What makes you convinced in your heart that I am love?” Because, my Father, You loved me so much that You gave to me the greatest gift possible. You gave me Your heart and Your life, in Your darling Son, Jesus. You gave Him to live and die for me, so that when I believed in Him, I could have communion with You as my Father. Now I will not suffer eternal separation from You, but live in Your love and experience the glory of it for the rest of my eternal life.”

“Did you notice what you just did?” No, Father, what did I do?
“You said the “L” word”.

Photo courtesy of http://appetitesforlife.wordpress.com/2010/01/31/february-calls-attention-to-the-heart/

Reality Check By Lorraine Walker
First Published February 2007 on http://www.sgmradio.com
For current Reality Check blogs, please click on http://www.sgmradio.com

Retro Reality Check: At War - January 2007

His Majesty’s Service

War. Every day it is on our newscasts and in our papers. Pictures flash in front of us of guns and destruction. The war across the ocean is a subject often debated but made more real every time one of our own is brought home to rest under a draped flag. The person donning a military uniform knows their commitment will be life-altering.

As a Christian, I am a part of an army taking orders from an Almighty God. It is true that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against the powers of Satan. This may mean that we are lead into areas that are out of our comfort zone, and active combat for some does indeed include physical danger. But there is so much of our day-to-day living that is still ‘active service’.

There are those that consider service to our Ultimate Commander to be up to those who do it ‘professionally’. They have the idea that only those who are pastors or ministry leaders should be on the front lines and the rest of us can sit in our pews. Unfortunately, that distinction is not made in the Word of God, when the disciple Peter tells us not to consider it ‘strange’ when we are faced with the ‘fiery trial’. There are struggles we all have to face, and therefore we are all on active duty.

Just as military duty entails much more than firing a weapon, service in God’s Army is more than a preacher delivering a sermon. We often see news photos of soldiers handing out food to the hungry or using their training to help out in times of natural disasters. In the same way, we are expected to reach out with God’s saving hand in every day, ordinary ways, using the talents entrusted to us.

Every day service is exhibited in the lives of those who genuinely want to share the love of Christ with others. It is the man who gives his day off every week, in order to bring food and the Word to downtown children. It is the lady who shows hospitality to those who may be new into the country and invites relative strangers to her home. It is the one who gives generously and anonymously to someone the Lord placed on his or her heart.

A soldier on duty is aware that all of his or her activities while in uniform reflect their regiment and their officer-in-charge. As a Christian, even the little things we do reflect on the One whose Name we bear. Were we polite to the cashier at the checkout or did we hold the door for the stranger leaving the store after us? Did we allow another person to take the parking space we found?

Service for you may mean giving of your vacation time and bank account in order to travel to another country to help on a short-term mission. Or you may only have enough left in your budget to bring one can of soup to your local food bank. Whether it’s a kind word to the stranger on the street or a hug to a friend who is being unfriendly, whatever exhibits the love of Christ is an act of service.

Sometimes we like to think that we are ‘on furlough’ and we can slack off, but in His Majesty’s service, there is no down time. Whether the Christian is doing spiritual battle on their knees, or comforting a battered soul, their service is always important to their Commander-in-Chief.

Written by Lorraine Walker. First published January 2007 on http://www.sgmradio.com
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Image courtesy of IMAGE SOURCE PAGE: http://drpinna.com/dying-in-afghanistan-7427