Category: Top articles

Choosing Grace Over Payback

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

NELSON NOLAND

The twelfth chapter of Romans ends with a call to live differently from the world around us. Modern culture celebrates revenge. From movies to online conflicts, payback is often seen as justice. But the gospel offers another path. We should follow a way that turns away from hate and chooses love, even toward those who have wronged us.

The teaching of Romans 12 is not easy. It asks us to love people who mistreat us and to answer harm with kindness. This is hard work, like putting on heavy gloves to do a tough job. Yet this is the kind of life Jesus calls His followers to live. It is not natural to forgive. I’ve come to believe it is something that grows from knowing that God first forgave us. The Bible says that while we were still His enemies, Christ died for us. When we understand that, we begin to see how to love others the same way.

To love enemies means to act with grace where the world expects revenge. It means refusing to return evil for evil. Across the world, there are real examples of people who have lived out this truth. A widow in Arizona forgave the man who killed her husband. Amish parents in Pennsylvania prayed for the driver who caused the death of their children. A retired judge in Michigan forgave the teenager who crashed into his car and even paid for the boy’s education. These moments show the kind of love that can only come from God. It is a love that brings healing instead of hate.

Such forgiveness is not weakness. It is strength that comes from faith. It does not excuse evil but hands justice over to God. The Bible says, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” Trusting that truth frees us from bitterness. Holding on to anger only poisons the heart. Letting go allows peace to enter.

Jesus also taught that we should love our enemies, pray for those who hurt us, and greet those who dislike us. These are not feelings but actions. Love is shown in what we do, choosing to bless instead of curse, to speak well instead of gossiping, to do good instead of seeking harm. Even small acts of kindness, like a word of peace or a shared meal, can change hearts. When we do this, we not only reflect God’s character but also find freedom for ourselves.

There is beauty in mercy. When we show grace, we rise above anger and become living examples of Christ’s love. In a world where outrage and division are common, forgiveness is a quiet revolution. It points people to a kingdom not built on pride or payback but on compassion and peace.

We live out our faith when we choose mercy over revenge.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Colossians 3:13

Iranian Christian convert jailed for 5 years as crackdown on faith deepens

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

MARK ALLEN

A Christian convert in Iran is sentenced to prison. Nayereh Arjaneh began her five-year prison term on 23 December. She was charged with “promoting deviant propaganda and teachings contrary to Islamic law.” The Revolutionary Court in Garmsar also assessed a fine of 165 million tomans (around C$ 5,432), two years’ internal exile in Kouhbanan in Kerman province, and a two-year travel ban. She was sentenced to two separate five-year sentences, but they will be served concurrently (at the same time,) and not back-to-back.

Arjaneh was arrested 7 July, 2025, along with her husband, Qasem Esmaili. The couple was taken into custody shortly after returning from a Christian training event in Turkey. Such travel and religious activity often draw the attention of Iranian security forces, especially when Muslims convert to Christianity.

“Christian converts in Iran face systematic persecution, including arbitrary arrests, lengthy prison sentences, and vague national security charges. Iranian authorities consider conversion from Islam illegal and routinely target converts for peaceful religious activities,” said the Center for Human Rights in Iran in a Facebook post about the sentencing .

Esmai­li was also sentenced, receiving three years and six months in prison. However, his imprisonment has been postponed for now because he is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

Under Iranian law, trying to spread any religion other than Islam can lead to a prison sentence of up to 10 years. The law is also commonly applied in a way that bars Muslim citizens from leaving Islam or adopting another faith.

Brian Alvey’s next chapter revealed: Joins Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

JEFF TURNER

Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call have announced they are welcoming acclaimed Southern Gospel singer Brian Alvey to their ministry family. The talented vocalist, musician, and songwriter brings with him an impressive background in gospel music and a commitment to serving the Lord.

Brian Alvey (Courtesy 2nd Chance Ministries)

Last month we learned Alvey was leaving 2nd Chance Ministries after the group announced they were looking for a new tenor. We also learned that Waylon Bayes was leaving Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call to pursue his education at trade school. We didn’t know until today that the two changes would end up having a connection.

Brian Alvey has built a distinguished career performing with some of the most respected groups in the Southern Gospel Music Industry, including Tribute Quartet, Kingdom Heirs, and most recently Second Chance Ministries. Throughout his career, he has earned recognition not only for his voice but also for his devotion to God’s Word and his dedication to faith, family, and ministry.

“We are blessed to welcome Brian, his wife Amber and his children Collin, Parker and Winston into our ministry family,” said Debra Perry. She noted that his talent, spirit, and love for the Lord make him an ideal fit for their work in advancing God’s Kingdom through music and ministry.

Brian Alvey expressed his enthusiasm about joining the group, saying he is honoured to serve alongside Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call. He looks forward to sharing the message of hope and faith through music and ministering to hearts wherever God leads them.

With their hearts united in purpose and vision, Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call are looking ahead with excitement and prayer, anticipating a fruitful journey as they continue to lift up Jesus through worship, song, and testimony.

Greater Vision celebrates 35 years of music

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

DAVID INGRAM

Thirty-five years ago today, 30 December 1990, Greater Vision stepped onto the platform for the very first time as a trio, presenting their inaugural concert in Grassy Creek, Kentucky. Although that historic morning was not recorded, it marked the beginning of a ministry that would go on to impact countless lives.

©1992 Greater Vision Music Ministries, Inc.. All rights reserved.

Based in Morristown, Tennessee, Greater Vision continues to travel with around 150 road performances each year. The group was founded by Gerald Wolfe, who serves as pianist and emcee. Multi-award-winning songwriter Rodney Griffin provides the lead vocal for the trio, while Chris Allman, also a prolific songwriter, sings tenor. The group’s newest member, Scott Mullins, sings baritone, adding depth ato Greater Vision’s unmistakable sound.

Greater Vision’s influence extends beyond the concert platform. For more than 30 years, they have appeared regularly on the InTouch television programme hosted by Dr Charles Stanley. They also appear on the Gaither Gospel Video Series and have become a central part of the beloved Gospel Music Hymn Sing videos and live events.

The group’s latest release, Your Story, features new songs written by group members Rodney Griffin and Chris Allman, along with contributions from other notable writers. Produced by Gerald Wolfe and Trey Ivey and distributed by Daywind Records, the project continues the group’s tradition of meaningful, message-driven music.

Listen for songs throughout the day by Greater Vision as they celebrate 35 years of Southern Gospel!

Sacred Harmony searches for new singer After pastor departure

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

JEFF TURNER

Sacred Harmony is looking for a new baritone or lead singer after Caleb Howard left the group to enter full-time ministry. Howard, from Eastern Kentucky, has taken a position as a pastor. The group is asking for prayers for Howard and his family and said they support his decision.

The announcement was made on the group’s Facebook page. The trio said Howard made an impact on their ministry and that they will miss him and his love for the Lord.

Provided to YouTube by Syntax Creative Breathe In, Breathe Out · Sacred Harmony It Ain’t Over Yet â„— 2021 Godsey Media

Sacred Harmony will continue to perform with fill-in singers as needed until they find Howard’s replacement.

The Tennessee-based trio was formed in 2000 and has received recognitions including the 2017 Sunrise Trio of the year, Top five nominee for Video of the Year and A Day of Recognition proclamation presented by Tennessee Governor bill Haslam in 2018. They have grown their ministry over the years. The trio focuses on salvation and their message through both song and their words as they travel across the country.

People who want to apply for the position can send two songs, a biography with a picture, and information about themselves to sacredharmony1@hotmail.com.