Linda J. Ivey Ministries
Minister Gloria A. Pickens
Chapter Title: Positive Christian Role Model
Signature Scripture
Psalms 34:1
“I can do all things through Christ Jesus
who strengthens me.”
Church Membership: Polite Temple Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA
Minister Pickens’ Background: A former educator with the Philadelphia School District, born and raised in Philadelphia with a family history filled with clergy who is now maintaining the family tradition of preaching and singing God’s praises.
Minister Pickens ’Reflections: I always was accepting of my Call because I knew God had me destined for something greater. There was something else He wanted me to do and I had to be certain. Sometimes we must patiently wait on God. I learned I could only do all things through Christ through prayer and fasting; I relied on those two things. I knew prayer changed things because I’d seen the results. I prayed daily, it was my private time to connect with God. I considered prayer to be my level one communication with God, but if level one wasn’t enough, then I’d move to level two. Level two was adding fasting to my prayers. Some prayers will only be answered through fasting. My fasting told God I was serious about my requests and was willing to sacrifice things that were important to me.
Minister Pickens’ Testimony: God answered my prayers with a revelation from my pastor, Franklin Williamson Jr. Pastor Williamson announced the Lord had told him to begin the process to license me as a minister. This was my confirmation that the Lord had “greater” in store for me. It was God’s stamp of approval. Despite being called out of my comfort zone, I knew this was God’s will for me. All I could say was “Praise His Holy Name” and I’ve been running ever since.
Minister Pickens’ Observations: My mom and grandmom were perfect role models for me. Surrounded by the love of God, they gave me love, care, sincerity and positive Christian standards. Mom would have all four of us, my sisters and brother, on our knees every night reciting the “Lord’s Prayer” and then we’d pray for others. As we took turns praying, I witnessed my mom getting filled with the Holy Ghost. I had also witnessed this with my grandmom. As I watched my mom, I thought “Oh no, now my mom has it too.” I didn’t understand what was happening and it scared me for a minute or two. I was young, but I knew it was real. Now I look at my life and I realize this was only setting the foundation for my journey into ministry.
Minister Pickens’ Challenges: All of us, especially ministers, have to be prepared for the challenges of test and trials. We're either about to be tested, in a test, or waiting to come out of a test. I don’t worry because God said He would never leave me or forsake me and I stand on His word that declares, “Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” After being tested and surviving the test, I give my testimony in the form of instructions and advice to others who are going through their own trials. I advise them that if they want to get an “A” on their test, they will need to follow God’s instruction because any other way will cause them to fail. I advise them to consult our Heavenly Father and He will give you a roadmap to your successful outcome. We all know that when we don’t learn the first time, we will continue to repeat it until we learn from it.
Minister Pickens’ Most Significant Accomplishment: I remember my meeting with a beautiful young student whose parents supported her changing her external identity from female to male. The conversation reminded me of what Jesus said in Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Rather than focusing on her new physical changes, I reminded her of her God-given spiritual beauty of kindness, goodness and her gentle and peaceful personality. I was also able to give her blessings of health, good thoughts and a positive future in her new journey.
Minister Pickens' Vision for the Church: Church ministry is still a vital resource and can be helpful in addressing these types of isssues by providing positive Christian role-models, a non-judgmental environment and spiritual couseling. That's the core of my ministry, to touch someone in a positive way so they see Jesus.