Scared is the story of Adanna, a young girl living in Swaziland, just northeast of South Africa. It tells of her and her young siblings life growing up in an AIDS infected and poverty stricken land. A land where men aren't around to support their families because they have died or are working in the mines. A place where the men that are left think it is ok to use little girls to satisfy their urges. A place where death and sickness are so prevalent there is no family unaffected.
It also tells the story of a young international photographer, Stuart. A man on a mission, to get the perfect picture and save his career. A man who arrives in Swaziland to do one thing but leaves a changed man after living the life with the people.
The book, written by Tom Davis, a man who has obviously spent much time in Africa due to his incredibly detailed depictions of Africa, is an incredibly difficult read. Although the book is fiction, it accurately depicts the plight of the widows and orphans of many parts of Africa. I dare you to read it! You will not be unchanged.
You can even read it free here at the time of this post. It is downloadable to your Kindle, IPhone or computer.
Showing posts with label ministry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ministry. Show all posts
Monday, March 01, 2010
Monday, March 16, 2009
Prayer needed, especially in the next 24 hours...
Wayne, Rev Debra and Shannon need to make a quick decision in the next 24 hours. The design and engineering team has made an offer to meet them on the Tanzania property in May. We need to decide by tomorrow if that is a possiblity.If they can't go in May, it could be Sept but more likely later before the get together could happen. Please pray for them to make the right decision, for jobs to allow them the vacations they need and for finances to pull together by then.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Glory Mountain and the Tanzania property
Just this past week I was able to get my hands on some photos of the property in Tanzania that the ministry will eventually be building on.
This first picture is one of Rev. Debra standing in front of one of many Mango trees located on the property. On the right edge of the picture you can see a bit of the trail leading to the property.
This photo shows the view from one of the higher points of the property as it overlooks a village at the bottom. All of the land right up to the homes is the ministry's. No "squatters" will have to move, however, as you can see, they were farming some of the land. It shows us that some of the land is tillable and fertile soil. The residents in the area are very excited about the ministry moving into the area.
This shows what Rev. Debra is calling Glory Mountain. Taken from a distance it doesn't look very high but it is. It is likely that one day there will be a Christian radio station tower and/or a wind turbine located on top of Glory Mountain.
Here is the Tanzania ministry team that was there at the time, along with Pastor Richard and his nephew Alex, anointing the land for God's work and having communion together.
And the following is what Rev. Debra wrote about the trip to visit the property in her latest newsletter.
"We traveled across Lake Victoria on a ferry in our van and after only a fifteen minute ride, we were on the opposite side of the lake.(Actually it is a narrow channel on the southern edge of the lake-explanation mine) We then drove right off the ferry and traveled up a mountain road, a thirteen minute drive before arriving at the land and End Time Glory Mountain. An official from the area came with us to help in the surveying of the land. Upon seeing the land we were awestruck by the favor, and the blessing and wonder of our God! He truly does go before us and make a way. We saw the beauty of the Lord in that place with mango trees and even a few monkeys were seen by some. We then climbed Glory Mountain, and there on the highest place of the land sanctified it and cleansed it by the pouring out of oil and the elements representing His blood. Psalm 24:7-10 was read(see below), and we then took communion together, rejoicing in all that God had done!"
Look at this incredible view as it overlooks Lake Victoria!
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"Lift up your heads, O you gates, be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of Glory may come in. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up you ancient doors, that the King of Glory may come in. Who is He, this King of Glory? The Lord Almighty- he is the King of Glory." Psalm 24:7-10
This first picture is one of Rev. Debra standing in front of one of many Mango trees located on the property. On the right edge of the picture you can see a bit of the trail leading to the property.
This photo shows the view from one of the higher points of the property as it overlooks a village at the bottom. All of the land right up to the homes is the ministry's. No "squatters" will have to move, however, as you can see, they were farming some of the land. It shows us that some of the land is tillable and fertile soil. The residents in the area are very excited about the ministry moving into the area.
This shows what Rev. Debra is calling Glory Mountain. Taken from a distance it doesn't look very high but it is. It is likely that one day there will be a Christian radio station tower and/or a wind turbine located on top of Glory Mountain.
Here is the Tanzania ministry team that was there at the time, along with Pastor Richard and his nephew Alex, anointing the land for God's work and having communion together.
And the following is what Rev. Debra wrote about the trip to visit the property in her latest newsletter.
"We traveled across Lake Victoria on a ferry in our van and after only a fifteen minute ride, we were on the opposite side of the lake.(Actually it is a narrow channel on the southern edge of the lake-explanation mine) We then drove right off the ferry and traveled up a mountain road, a thirteen minute drive before arriving at the land and End Time Glory Mountain. An official from the area came with us to help in the surveying of the land. Upon seeing the land we were awestruck by the favor, and the blessing and wonder of our God! He truly does go before us and make a way. We saw the beauty of the Lord in that place with mango trees and even a few monkeys were seen by some. We then climbed Glory Mountain, and there on the highest place of the land sanctified it and cleansed it by the pouring out of oil and the elements representing His blood. Psalm 24:7-10 was read(see below), and we then took communion together, rejoicing in all that God had done!"
Look at this incredible view as it overlooks Lake Victoria!
\"Lift up your heads, O you gates, be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of Glory may come in. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up you ancient doors, that the King of Glory may come in. Who is He, this King of Glory? The Lord Almighty- he is the King of Glory." Psalm 24:7-10
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
End Time Glory Ministries now owns land in Tanzania!
Rev Debra and her team just returned from Tanzania and Burundi last week. Yesterday Shannon had a phone conversation with Debra about the trip and the land. The team was able to travel from Mwanza, by ferry and Land Rover, to the property. It is located across the channel from Mwanza. The land is about 15 minutes from where the ferry dropped them off via a fairly bad road(ahh, Africa...). Rev Debra thinks that with a little work on the road it could be turned into a 5 minute trip. The land is 30 acres of mostly tillable land that was being farmed. There is no one currently living on the property so those that were paid for the property were farming it. There are some mango trees and the exciting part is that there is a small mountain on the property. There are several reasons we want a large hill or mountain. It will be a great place to put a radio tower to broadcast God's word to the nation. Also, it will be a great place to locate a wind turbine to generate electricity which is not currently in the area. It sounds like there are plans for electricity to be in that area in the next few years but we are well aware of few years may be closer to many years, especially in Africa. A city council member is very excited about the ministry coming to the area and was involved in obtaining many signatures from area residents encouraging the farmers to sell us the property. The entire community is looking forward to the ministry's arrival which excites us greatly. Here is what Rev Debra had to say in her recent prayer chain email newsletter:
We were AMAZED to see the beautiful 25 + acre piece of property that now belongs to ETG Ministries! It has 'million dollar' views of Lake Victoria, mango trees, good farm land and even a small mountain - Glory Mountain - which we climbed, anointed, and had communion on! Pray for the remaining acreage ETG is expecting. None of what we saw is actual lake frontage, BUT the official who showed us the property lines was approached that very morning by a "squatter" who had adjoining lake frontage and wanted help in "selling" it! God is so AWESOME! Also, pray for favor with Engineering Ministries International - that they will approve the ETG application for their services for the Tanzania property.
This is good news and we are excited, and just a bit nervous, to see what God does next.
We were AMAZED to see the beautiful 25 + acre piece of property that now belongs to ETG Ministries! It has 'million dollar' views of Lake Victoria, mango trees, good farm land and even a small mountain - Glory Mountain - which we climbed, anointed, and had communion on! Pray for the remaining acreage ETG is expecting. None of what we saw is actual lake frontage, BUT the official who showed us the property lines was approached that very morning by a "squatter" who had adjoining lake frontage and wanted help in "selling" it! God is so AWESOME! Also, pray for favor with Engineering Ministries International - that they will approve the ETG application for their services for the Tanzania property.
This is good news and we are excited, and just a bit nervous, to see what God does next.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
By Whose Authority?
A couple of weeks ago at church, Pastor Keith announced that he would be fasting and praying in the sanctuary every lunch hour for the next 10 days. He invited anyone in the congregation who wished to join him to do so. I wasn't able to be there all 10 days but I made an appearance for quite a few of the days. Each day we prayed as a group for different needs within the church. One day we were praying about evangelism. We prayed that we, as a church, would be more bold about speaking to others about our faith-whether it be as we are shopping, out for a walk, or visiting over the fence with neighbors.
Isn't is sad how intimidated and fearful we get about speaking about our faith? We have something to share with people that can literally change their lives but we often want to use "lifestyle evangelism" to reach others with it. I am so glad that the people who shared Christ with me weren't just using lifestyle evangelism or I'd still be doomed to an eternity in hell. I'm not saying that how we live our lives isn't tremendously important in reaching others, but it's a rare person who finds Christ simply from watching. They still need to hear.
One of my part-time jobs involves knocking on doors and asking strangers personal questions about themselves for the Census Bureau. Yes, we do work all of the time, not just during the 10 year population count. Anyway, I drive into people's farms or driveways, knock on their doors, explain what I am doing, and then do it with minimal fear. A lot of the reason is because I am there under government authority. I wear a badge that basically identifies me as someone who can be at your door, as long as your address is on my computer screen. I have authority to be there doing what I am doing.
I need to remind myself that when I am out telling others about Jesus Christ and what He has done for me and what He can do for them, I also have authority. I have a God-given authority to be doing it. That authority, dear reader, is the best kind of authority I can get!
"If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31b
Isn't is sad how intimidated and fearful we get about speaking about our faith? We have something to share with people that can literally change their lives but we often want to use "lifestyle evangelism" to reach others with it. I am so glad that the people who shared Christ with me weren't just using lifestyle evangelism or I'd still be doomed to an eternity in hell. I'm not saying that how we live our lives isn't tremendously important in reaching others, but it's a rare person who finds Christ simply from watching. They still need to hear.
One of my part-time jobs involves knocking on doors and asking strangers personal questions about themselves for the Census Bureau. Yes, we do work all of the time, not just during the 10 year population count. Anyway, I drive into people's farms or driveways, knock on their doors, explain what I am doing, and then do it with minimal fear. A lot of the reason is because I am there under government authority. I wear a badge that basically identifies me as someone who can be at your door, as long as your address is on my computer screen. I have authority to be there doing what I am doing.
I need to remind myself that when I am out telling others about Jesus Christ and what He has done for me and what He can do for them, I also have authority. I have a God-given authority to be doing it. That authority, dear reader, is the best kind of authority I can get!
"If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31b
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
"Purchase" of the land in Tanzania
I just wanted to share the latest news we have from Tanzania.
As you may remember, the governor of the Mwanza district gifted 30 acres of land to End Time Glory Ministries last fall. It is a law in Tanzania that when taking ownership of property, if there are any squatters they must be paid off. In the Tanzanian culture there are very few people who actually own land. Most people find a place they like and they build their home. It is typical in the culture to be living on land you do not own. Tanzanian law states that squatters must be paid at the rate of $1000US per acre. Several months ago, Pastor Richard, a native Tanzanian, was able to convince the government to accept $500 per acre. As of last week, the money was over in Mwanza and Pastor Richard was in process of paying the people on the land. The plan was to have that done last week and to have the surveying done this week.
Engineering Ministries International has agreed to work with End Time Glory to engineer and develop the property. This is great news! They will travel to the property in either February or June of next year to help design the buildings and projects to best fit the property and the culture. We are all very excited about EMI's willingness to join with us in our efforts to help the widows and orphans of the Mwanza area.
What does this mean for our family? Well, End Time Glory Ministries would like our family in Tanzania when the building starts. Depending on when EMI visits the land and then their time frame of finishing the plans we would likely try to be over there in late 2009 or early 2010. Realistically, Shannon and I know that the whole process may take longer, especially when we still need to raise our monthly support. Shannon will likely be traveling to the land at the same time that EMI is over there as well-so likely in Feb or June.
Please keep this process in your prayers. We all want God's will for this entire project and His timing.
As you may remember, the governor of the Mwanza district gifted 30 acres of land to End Time Glory Ministries last fall. It is a law in Tanzania that when taking ownership of property, if there are any squatters they must be paid off. In the Tanzanian culture there are very few people who actually own land. Most people find a place they like and they build their home. It is typical in the culture to be living on land you do not own. Tanzanian law states that squatters must be paid at the rate of $1000US per acre. Several months ago, Pastor Richard, a native Tanzanian, was able to convince the government to accept $500 per acre. As of last week, the money was over in Mwanza and Pastor Richard was in process of paying the people on the land. The plan was to have that done last week and to have the surveying done this week.
Engineering Ministries International has agreed to work with End Time Glory to engineer and develop the property. This is great news! They will travel to the property in either February or June of next year to help design the buildings and projects to best fit the property and the culture. We are all very excited about EMI's willingness to join with us in our efforts to help the widows and orphans of the Mwanza area.
What does this mean for our family? Well, End Time Glory Ministries would like our family in Tanzania when the building starts. Depending on when EMI visits the land and then their time frame of finishing the plans we would likely try to be over there in late 2009 or early 2010. Realistically, Shannon and I know that the whole process may take longer, especially when we still need to raise our monthly support. Shannon will likely be traveling to the land at the same time that EMI is over there as well-so likely in Feb or June.
Please keep this process in your prayers. We all want God's will for this entire project and His timing.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
End Time Glory Spring 2008 Conference
It is the weekend for the spring 2008 Glory Conference. You can find more information here. Feel free to join us there. We'd love to see you. Take note of the location since it has changed since the last one. It is sure to be a blessed time with praise and worship and good teachings. I won't be blogging until next week now as we will be busy attending and ministering at the conference.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Chickens!
On May 5th there will be 20 newly hatched chicks that will be placed in a box with a shipping label to Minnesota. They are coming here, to our house!
Before you call us impulsive, as some who have known us for a long time think we are, may I say that we have been considering having chickens here on our 6 acres since we moved out here in 1997 and have been considering it more seriously for a couple of years now. After some research, talking with a cousin(Thanks Minke!)and discussion as a couple then as a family, we have decided this is something we want to do. Here are some reasons why.
Chickens are easy to care for and make a good family project. They are inexpensive to purchase and to keep. They lay eggs. The cost of groceries continues to climb and the nutritional value of eggs cannot be denied. Our family likes eggs and eats a lot of them. Home grown eggs usually have better, more flavorful yolks and are just plain better for you than store bought. Imagine, collecting the eggs just a few minutes before cooking them. Finally, this reason being one of the biggest to us, is that we are eventually going to be moving to Tanzania where we are hoping to have a mini-working farm within the ministry to help feed and support the children in the orphanage. We know chickens will be one of the first animals there and that we will be raising and eating a lot of them. Anything we can learn to do here in the relative comfort of our own culture seems like it would be a benefit in the long run. Although, we aren't quite ready to branch out into goats, cows and pigs yet, we know that will come once we are over there.
Call us crazy if you will but this is one of the least crazy decisions we have made in a long time.
Edited to add:For those with chicken knowledge who may want to know, here are the breeds we ordered. We have 5 of each coming to us-Barred Rock, Buff Orpington, Silver Laced Wyandotte and a Rhode Island Red/Delaware Hybrid. We chose based on our research of personalities and egg laying capabilities as well as looks. The rest of the decision lay in how long we wanted to wait for our chicks. One breed we were considering would have held up delivery until June so we decided on a different breed. For those without the knowledge, there will be pictures later.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Statement of Faith #11-The Ministry
Official Assembly of God Statement of Faith #11-A divinely called and scripturally ordained ministry has been provided by our Lord for the threefold purpose of leading the Church in: 1)Evangelization of the World. 2)Worship of God. 3)Building a body of saints being perfected in the image of His Son.
In class we actually covered this statement of faith on the same day as the church and its ministry. These two statements are so closely related that they kind of blur together. Ultimately, in a nutshell, this statements says that we believe that those in authority in the church have been selected or appointed for duty and called by GOd to be our leaders.
We also believe that the various positions of church leadership were put into place, ordered, established and explained in the scriptures as follows.
Apostle-a person sent by another, a messenger Luke 6:14-15
Deacon-a servant Acts 6:5-6
Disciple-a student, follower of Christ
Elder-a person of authority entitled to respect Eph 4:11, Acts 20:38, Heb 13:7, 1 Thes. 5:12, Numbers 22:7
Evangelist-preacher of the gospel
Overseer-another term for elder
Pastor-another term for elder
Prophet-a spokesman for God and speaks with God's authority
1 Timothy 3:2-13 and Titus 1:5-9 give the requirements for leadership.
The purpose then of the church leadership is to lead and direct the members of he church at large to do the three duties of the church mentioned in Statement of Faith #10. Namely, evangelization of the world, worship of God and Building a body of saints.
It is important for us as church members to be constantly in prayer for the leaders in our churches. Often, it is the church leadership that Satan attacks the hardest. This is because if the leader can be brought down many, many followers will be too.
In class we actually covered this statement of faith on the same day as the church and its ministry. These two statements are so closely related that they kind of blur together. Ultimately, in a nutshell, this statements says that we believe that those in authority in the church have been selected or appointed for duty and called by GOd to be our leaders.
We also believe that the various positions of church leadership were put into place, ordered, established and explained in the scriptures as follows.
Apostle-a person sent by another, a messenger Luke 6:14-15
Deacon-a servant Acts 6:5-6
Disciple-a student, follower of Christ
Elder-a person of authority entitled to respect Eph 4:11, Acts 20:38, Heb 13:7, 1 Thes. 5:12, Numbers 22:7
Evangelist-preacher of the gospel
Overseer-another term for elder
Pastor-another term for elder
Prophet-a spokesman for God and speaks with God's authority
1 Timothy 3:2-13 and Titus 1:5-9 give the requirements for leadership.
The purpose then of the church leadership is to lead and direct the members of he church at large to do the three duties of the church mentioned in Statement of Faith #10. Namely, evangelization of the world, worship of God and Building a body of saints.
It is important for us as church members to be constantly in prayer for the leaders in our churches. Often, it is the church leadership that Satan attacks the hardest. This is because if the leader can be brought down many, many followers will be too.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Statement of Faith #10-The Church and Its Mission
Official Assembly of God Statement of Faith #10-"The Church is the Body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn, which are written in heaven."
I have known people who did not want to be members or attenders of a church. Sometimes it is because they just don't want to take the time to go, and often it is because they have been hurt emotionally by members of a church and they have decided they don't want to attend anymore. Ultimately, whatever the reason may be doesn't matter. As a Christian it is very important to be a part of a church. This particular statement refers to Christians, who as a group, make up the body of Christ, the church. It refers to the importance of believers needing to be part of a larger group of Christians. That larger group is responsible for encouraging, teaching, leading, helping and supporting as well as holding us accountable to our Christian beliefs.
There are three main purposes to the church. The first is to evangelize the world. We cannot reach the people of the world alone. Each of us does not have enough resources or time to do so. However, working together, we can financially support missionaries overseas as well as ministries locally. Our prayers put together accomplish more than they do alone.
Another main purpose of the church is to worship God together. We can come together and with or without music, praise God as a group. It is often within a group that great things happen-prophecies are spoken, prayers for each other happen and the power of a group of united Christians cannot be denied.
Another purpose for the church is to build up the body of saints. We can edify each other through teaching, discipleship and fellowship. It is very important that we spend time with those who believe similar to ourselves. Iron sharpens iron they say and working together we can all become stronger Christians. I do not want to ignore that there are times that other members of a church hurt us. Within a church there can be disagreements and pain and I want to refer you to another post of mine written last summer about porcupines to address that issue.
If you are not involved in a Christian church right now I would encourage you to become so. It can be one of the best things for you and you can also be good for the others there. If you currently are involved in a church that is great and I hope you find it to be a good thing for your Christian walk. If it is not, then you may need to find a different church, but do not go without church altogether. And no matter what, do your best to keep those porcupine quills at bay.
"You are...fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit." Ephesians 2:19-22
I have known people who did not want to be members or attenders of a church. Sometimes it is because they just don't want to take the time to go, and often it is because they have been hurt emotionally by members of a church and they have decided they don't want to attend anymore. Ultimately, whatever the reason may be doesn't matter. As a Christian it is very important to be a part of a church. This particular statement refers to Christians, who as a group, make up the body of Christ, the church. It refers to the importance of believers needing to be part of a larger group of Christians. That larger group is responsible for encouraging, teaching, leading, helping and supporting as well as holding us accountable to our Christian beliefs.
There are three main purposes to the church. The first is to evangelize the world. We cannot reach the people of the world alone. Each of us does not have enough resources or time to do so. However, working together, we can financially support missionaries overseas as well as ministries locally. Our prayers put together accomplish more than they do alone.
Another main purpose of the church is to worship God together. We can come together and with or without music, praise God as a group. It is often within a group that great things happen-prophecies are spoken, prayers for each other happen and the power of a group of united Christians cannot be denied.
Another purpose for the church is to build up the body of saints. We can edify each other through teaching, discipleship and fellowship. It is very important that we spend time with those who believe similar to ourselves. Iron sharpens iron they say and working together we can all become stronger Christians. I do not want to ignore that there are times that other members of a church hurt us. Within a church there can be disagreements and pain and I want to refer you to another post of mine written last summer about porcupines to address that issue.
If you are not involved in a Christian church right now I would encourage you to become so. It can be one of the best things for you and you can also be good for the others there. If you currently are involved in a church that is great and I hope you find it to be a good thing for your Christian walk. If it is not, then you may need to find a different church, but do not go without church altogether. And no matter what, do your best to keep those porcupine quills at bay.
"You are...fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit." Ephesians 2:19-22
Friday, February 29, 2008
Statement of Faith #6 Part 2-Holy Communion
I just want to remind you that this is part two of the sixth Assembly of God statements of faith. I broke it into two parts for ease of posting.
Official Assembly of God Statement of Faith #6(second half)-The Lord's supper, consisting of the elements-bread and the fruit of the vine-is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ, a memorial of His suffering and death, and a prophecy of His second coming, and is enjoined on all believers "until He come!"
As I explained yesterday, the belief of the Assembly of God church is that Holy Communion, or the Lord's supper, is considered to us to be an ordinance. That is, a command that has been given to us through the Word, that as Christians, we are expected to obey. It is not a requirement of our Christianity or something that makes us more Holy but is a simple act of obedience that we wish to do.
Communion is a symbol of our sharing in the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ. God created us in His image and in 2 Peter 1:4(NIVC) it states, "Through His glory and goodness...you can share in being like God."
It is a memorial of His suffering and death. The bread reminds of His bodily sacrifice on the cross while the wine/juice helps us to remember His shed blood. 1 Corinthians, chapter 10, verse 16 states, "The cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks is a participation in the blood of Christ. The bread that we break (is) a participation in the body of Christ." Some denominations believe that the bread and wine actually become His body and blood through transubstantiation. We simply believe that the bread and wine represent those two things, that they serve as a reminder to us of His body and blood, shed for us on the cross.
It is a prophecy of His second coming by reminding us that Jesus promised we would be with Him in glory. (Matthew 26:26-29)
And finally it is asked of all believers until He comes. This refers to the fact that this is a command, an order of Jesus to partake in if we want to walk in obedience. It is a visible representation of invisible realities. Communion reminds us that Jesus will come to take us home with Him to heaven.
"Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes." -1 Corinthians 11:26
Official Assembly of God Statement of Faith #6(second half)-The Lord's supper, consisting of the elements-bread and the fruit of the vine-is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ, a memorial of His suffering and death, and a prophecy of His second coming, and is enjoined on all believers "until He come!"
As I explained yesterday, the belief of the Assembly of God church is that Holy Communion, or the Lord's supper, is considered to us to be an ordinance. That is, a command that has been given to us through the Word, that as Christians, we are expected to obey. It is not a requirement of our Christianity or something that makes us more Holy but is a simple act of obedience that we wish to do.
Communion is a symbol of our sharing in the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ. God created us in His image and in 2 Peter 1:4(NIVC) it states, "Through His glory and goodness...you can share in being like God."
It is a memorial of His suffering and death. The bread reminds of His bodily sacrifice on the cross while the wine/juice helps us to remember His shed blood. 1 Corinthians, chapter 10, verse 16 states, "The cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks is a participation in the blood of Christ. The bread that we break (is) a participation in the body of Christ." Some denominations believe that the bread and wine actually become His body and blood through transubstantiation. We simply believe that the bread and wine represent those two things, that they serve as a reminder to us of His body and blood, shed for us on the cross.
It is a prophecy of His second coming by reminding us that Jesus promised we would be with Him in glory. (Matthew 26:26-29)
And finally it is asked of all believers until He comes. This refers to the fact that this is a command, an order of Jesus to partake in if we want to walk in obedience. It is a visible representation of invisible realities. Communion reminds us that Jesus will come to take us home with Him to heaven.
"Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes." -1 Corinthians 11:26
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Statement of Faith #1-The Scriptures Inspired
Official Assembly of God Statement of Faith #1-The Scriptures Inspired-The Scriptures, both the Old and New Testaments, are verbally inspired of God and are the revelation of God to man, the infallible, authoritative rule of faith and conduct.
The first statement of faith, and ultimately the most important, since all of our doctrine stems from this one, is that the scriptures, the Holy Bible, is inspired by God. If there is any doubt to the validity of the scriptures than all that we believe is at question.
The Holy Bible, 66 different books as we know it, was written over a period of 1,500+ years and had over 40 different authors. Each of the writers was inspired by God to write what he wrote. The Bible, even though it was written by so many people over a long period of time, verifies itself. The same stories are told by different authors, different prophecies by different authors that later were fulfilled. Creation verified the Bible. There are archeological records proving the bible. A couple of great sites to read more about some of those are Creation Science Evangelism and Answers in Genesis.
All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16
The first statement of faith, and ultimately the most important, since all of our doctrine stems from this one, is that the scriptures, the Holy Bible, is inspired by God. If there is any doubt to the validity of the scriptures than all that we believe is at question.
The Holy Bible, 66 different books as we know it, was written over a period of 1,500+ years and had over 40 different authors. Each of the writers was inspired by God to write what he wrote. The Bible, even though it was written by so many people over a long period of time, verifies itself. The same stories are told by different authors, different prophecies by different authors that later were fulfilled. Creation verified the Bible. There are archeological records proving the bible. A couple of great sites to read more about some of those are Creation Science Evangelism and Answers in Genesis.
All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16
Monday, January 28, 2008
The Assemblies of God Statements of Faith
Here is a list of the 16 Assembly of God doctrinal statements of faith that Molly's class is currently learning about.
1-The Scriptures Inspired
2-One True God-Three in One
3-The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ
4-The Fall of Mankind
5-The Salvation of Mankind
6-The Ordinances:Water Baptism and Communion
7-The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
8-Speaking in Tongues
9-Sanctification
10-The Church and it's Mission
11-The Ministry
12-Divine Healing
13-The Blessed Hope-The Rapture
14-Second Coming and the 1,000 Year Reign of Jesus Christ
15-The Final Judgment
16-The New Heavens and Earth
May I clarify that our reason for this series of posts is to help the readers- especially those who have asked-who we are and why we believe what we believe. Our goal is never to offend. You can disagree with us and that is fine. We will still love you and hope you will still love us!
1-The Scriptures Inspired
2-One True God-Three in One
3-The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ
4-The Fall of Mankind
5-The Salvation of Mankind
6-The Ordinances:Water Baptism and Communion
7-The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
8-Speaking in Tongues
9-Sanctification
10-The Church and it's Mission
11-The Ministry
12-Divine Healing
13-The Blessed Hope-The Rapture
14-Second Coming and the 1,000 Year Reign of Jesus Christ
15-The Final Judgment
16-The New Heavens and Earth
May I clarify that our reason for this series of posts is to help the readers- especially those who have asked-who we are and why we believe what we believe. Our goal is never to offend. You can disagree with us and that is fine. We will still love you and hope you will still love us!
Molly's Doctrine Class
Beginning a couple of weeks ago, Molly has been attending Doctrine Class at our church. We attend an Assembly of God church and there are 16 different statements of faith that she will be learning. Each week, she will learn about a new statement including a bible verse to go with it. She will also be expected to know the Lord's Prayer(she knew that already), the Apostle's Creed(already done), be able to recite the Statements of Faith and explain what each one means as well as write a paper about her Christian Faith and personal testimony. At the end of the 19 weeks there is also a written test on all of the information.
The best part about this is that I will be assisting in the classroom, listening to memory work and helping the children learn. So far I am really enjoying it. I went through confirmation in the Lutheran church at about this same age. I was taught a lot but so much of it I think went over my head and of course, unfortunately, there is also some disinterest at that age.
Shannon and I have decided that the blog would be a great place for me to write about what Molly and I are learning. This way our readers will understand a bit more about who we are and what we believe. Understanding who we are, and where we are coming from is an important goal of our blog. I would like to have a new post for each individual Statement. I have a few weeks to catch up on and will try to get them written this week so stay tuned. First up, listing the 16 Statements of Faith in one post.
The best part about this is that I will be assisting in the classroom, listening to memory work and helping the children learn. So far I am really enjoying it. I went through confirmation in the Lutheran church at about this same age. I was taught a lot but so much of it I think went over my head and of course, unfortunately, there is also some disinterest at that age.
Shannon and I have decided that the blog would be a great place for me to write about what Molly and I are learning. This way our readers will understand a bit more about who we are and what we believe. Understanding who we are, and where we are coming from is an important goal of our blog. I would like to have a new post for each individual Statement. I have a few weeks to catch up on and will try to get them written this week so stay tuned. First up, listing the 16 Statements of Faith in one post.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Simple Acts of Obedience=The Miraculous
I've written here before of how, often, God will give me similar teachings through many different sources, in a close time frame to teach me, or even just remind me of the simple but profound. Most recently, God has used Pastor Jeff Johns from the Glory Conference, Beth Moore and her book A Woman's Heart, God's Dwelling Place, and a radio teaching, it might have been Gregg Lourie to bring me the same reminder. A very simple act of obedience to the Father can lead to a huge miracle.
For example, look at the story of the floating ax head in 2 Kings 6:1-7. Or how about the staff turned into a snake in Exodus 7:8-13. The bitter water made sweet(Exodus 15:22), Peter walking on the water(Matt 14:29-30), the widow woman's full jug of oil(1 Kings 17:15-16), the examples could go on and on.
As I have studied, been taught about and read these many examples of simple obedience becoming great miracles I can't help but wonder if I would be so obedient. If I heard God tell me in my spirit to throw down a stick to become a snake would I think, uhhh, that's silly, I must be hearing wrong? Would I be willing to get out of a boat to walk on stormy seas. I think maybe I might based upon what I have read in the bible, however if He asked me to do something strange that isn't yet recorded in the bible or recorded history, then would I doubt? Would I obey? And if I don't I can only imagine the great blessings I would miss out on. God will still accomplish His purpose, even if He has to use someone else but the missed blessings could not be regained.
Since God has chosen this subject to specifically remind me about, it is something I must try to remember in my daily life. I pray that God will use me to accomplish great miracles in His name through simple acts of obedience.
For example, look at the story of the floating ax head in 2 Kings 6:1-7. Or how about the staff turned into a snake in Exodus 7:8-13. The bitter water made sweet(Exodus 15:22), Peter walking on the water(Matt 14:29-30), the widow woman's full jug of oil(1 Kings 17:15-16), the examples could go on and on.
As I have studied, been taught about and read these many examples of simple obedience becoming great miracles I can't help but wonder if I would be so obedient. If I heard God tell me in my spirit to throw down a stick to become a snake would I think, uhhh, that's silly, I must be hearing wrong? Would I be willing to get out of a boat to walk on stormy seas. I think maybe I might based upon what I have read in the bible, however if He asked me to do something strange that isn't yet recorded in the bible or recorded history, then would I doubt? Would I obey? And if I don't I can only imagine the great blessings I would miss out on. God will still accomplish His purpose, even if He has to use someone else but the missed blessings could not be regained.
Since God has chosen this subject to specifically remind me about, it is something I must try to remember in my daily life. I pray that God will use me to accomplish great miracles in His name through simple acts of obedience.
Monday, January 14, 2008
It was a great weekend
We are getting back into our regular routine now after a three day Glory Conference with the ministry. The speakers were anointed, the praise and worship was, as always, amazing and there was personal prophecy given to many. Our family enjoyed our time as we served in several ways. Shannon, Collin and I helped with the screens for the words to the songs. Collin and M helped with serving the banquet Saturday noon and all of us helped with the clean up afterwards. I think I hand washed more silverware that afternoon than I have in the previous 10 years! Thankfully the plates and cups were all disposable. Then afterwards, cleaning bathrooms, vacuuming and preparing the building for church services the next day was the grand finale and we had fun working with others to get that done.
I was proud of our children as they so willingly pitched in wherever they could and we received several positive comments about them. I feel so very fortunate that our kids are getting it-understanding how to serve and realizing the value and privilege in being a part of God's work.
Last Tuesday evening, the orphanage committee meeting went well as we all explored topics that need to be researched. We all realize we have a huge job ahead of as we pull together this new branch of End Time Glory Ministries. At the end of the meeting as the group prayed, one of the members thanked the Lord for our family and our willingness to serve. I cried as I truly feel so incredibly honored that God wants to use us in this way. It isn't a willingness on our part but rather a feeling of incredible awe(fear and trembling) and a complete inability to say no to God. I wish there was a way to help more people understand that this isn't a choice for us. We are positive that God has asked us to do this and there is no way we could ever say no to Him.
I was proud of our children as they so willingly pitched in wherever they could and we received several positive comments about them. I feel so very fortunate that our kids are getting it-understanding how to serve and realizing the value and privilege in being a part of God's work.
Last Tuesday evening, the orphanage committee meeting went well as we all explored topics that need to be researched. We all realize we have a huge job ahead of as we pull together this new branch of End Time Glory Ministries. At the end of the meeting as the group prayed, one of the members thanked the Lord for our family and our willingness to serve. I cried as I truly feel so incredibly honored that God wants to use us in this way. It isn't a willingness on our part but rather a feeling of incredible awe(fear and trembling) and a complete inability to say no to God. I wish there was a way to help more people understand that this isn't a choice for us. We are positive that God has asked us to do this and there is no way we could ever say no to Him.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Reflections
I will not make excuses for not posting for nearly three weeks other than to say I have been as busy as anyone.
I have found myself over the past week, since the new year began, reflecting on the year 2007 and even the past few years. What is it about a new year that makes us look back? I guess it feels like a new beginning in a way.
It was about three years ago now that both Shannon and I knew we were being called into the mission fields of Africa. It wasn't until a year later though, that we finally accepted that. The first year, neither of us really talked about it, we were both aware of it in our own ways but it seemed so "far out", so impossible, so crazy, that neither of us could imagine it could be real. When we finally realized that with God's help, none of those thoughts are actually true.
These past couple of years of preparation have brought about tremendous growth and changes in each of the members of our family. As I look back at how God has been preparing us and what He has done in us in a couple of years, I am excited at what He can do with us, in us and through us in the next year. We have watched our children mature and come into a greater understanding of their role in this adventure. We know that God sees our children as tremendously important to the ministry as well. It is something we remind them of and we are excited to see them begin to understand that.
This evening we have the first "official" meeting of the End Time Glory Ministries orphanage committee. We are excited to see people, chosen by God through the ministry leadership, come together with a similar goal and mindset-one of seeing the orphans and widows of Mwanza ministered to so that they can eventually become strong Christian leaders in their community.
Please keep the ministry and our family in your prayers during these continued times of preparation.
I have found myself over the past week, since the new year began, reflecting on the year 2007 and even the past few years. What is it about a new year that makes us look back? I guess it feels like a new beginning in a way.
It was about three years ago now that both Shannon and I knew we were being called into the mission fields of Africa. It wasn't until a year later though, that we finally accepted that. The first year, neither of us really talked about it, we were both aware of it in our own ways but it seemed so "far out", so impossible, so crazy, that neither of us could imagine it could be real. When we finally realized that with God's help, none of those thoughts are actually true.
These past couple of years of preparation have brought about tremendous growth and changes in each of the members of our family. As I look back at how God has been preparing us and what He has done in us in a couple of years, I am excited at what He can do with us, in us and through us in the next year. We have watched our children mature and come into a greater understanding of their role in this adventure. We know that God sees our children as tremendously important to the ministry as well. It is something we remind them of and we are excited to see them begin to understand that.
This evening we have the first "official" meeting of the End Time Glory Ministries orphanage committee. We are excited to see people, chosen by God through the ministry leadership, come together with a similar goal and mindset-one of seeing the orphans and widows of Mwanza ministered to so that they can eventually become strong Christian leaders in their community.
Please keep the ministry and our family in your prayers during these continued times of preparation.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Shannon and Collin's trip to Tanzania-In Summary
Collin and I wish to thank you for your support. Wether it was financial or in prayer or both, it all played a big part in our travels. The trip was life-changing for both of us and the purposes for our journey were fulfilled. As you already know we had several goals in mind for our time in Tanzania.
#1-Evangelism-There were 962 salvations during the meetings and crusades that we were involved in. Collin and I were mainly involved in the children's ministry as well as going out into the crowds to speak one on one with the people. Many of those who received salvation were Muslims and there were several members of the Masai tribe. There were also many healings.
#2-to confirm the call of God on our lives for the people of Tanzania-As you already know, we are feeling that God is calling us to move to Tanzania to be involved in working with orphans and widows, as well as the development of a Christian radio station. I spent much of our trip grieving the losses our family will endure. This move is going to come at a great cost to our family as well as loved ones staying behind. I feel it would be so much easier to just walk away from this whole idea, but I also know that if this is where God wants us, we must obey or it will be even more costly. This isn't about us, but rather we need to remain in His will. I am confident now that God is wanting us to be involved with this particular ministry.
#3-to affect Collin's heart-The call we are feeling as a family has been a scary thing for all of us but especially for him. He was really struggling with the whole idea, understandably. We wanted him to see that Tanzania is not the end of the world but rather the other side of it. One day, while in Mwanza, he wrote in his journal, "We will leave in 2-3 days. I'm not completely sure I'm ready to go home. In fact, I'm not." I realize that 2+ weeks is nothing like living there but he has expressed to us that he is much less fearful and even a bit excited for the adventure to come and to go back to some of the friends he made there. He was also baptized in the spirit while we were there and received an encouraging prophecy over his life that he has "healing hands."
#4-to find and purchase land for the ministry-We found a 30+ acre plot of what seems to be perfect land. It lies in a valley surrounded by hills and has many mango trees. The main city of Mwanza lies just on the other side of the hills so it is remote without being too rural. The final purchase is still pending but it has been placed in the hands of a minister over there that the ministry is working with. The government has had favorable reactions to the ministry's vision. Please continue to pray as we wait on the finalization of that purchase.
I now feel it is time for us to begin our preparations to move. The ministry is wanting us over there by August of 2007 if possible. We will truly need God to do a major work for this to happen that quickly. We have our home to sell and everything in it, as well as our vehicles. We also need to raise the monthly support necesarry for us to be a part of this vision. We would very much apreciate if you would begin praying about how God can use you in this ministry. Wether it be that you join one of the many teams that will be travelling to Tanzania short-term to do contruction work or, later, support work or that you be involved in our monthly financial and/or prayer support team. Maybe you, or someone you know would be interested to come over longer-term at a later date to help with the hands-on of working in an orphanage. It is going to take many, many people for this ministry to be effective. Thanks again for your prayers. Keep them coming as we are just beginning.
#1-Evangelism-There were 962 salvations during the meetings and crusades that we were involved in. Collin and I were mainly involved in the children's ministry as well as going out into the crowds to speak one on one with the people. Many of those who received salvation were Muslims and there were several members of the Masai tribe. There were also many healings.
#2-to confirm the call of God on our lives for the people of Tanzania-As you already know, we are feeling that God is calling us to move to Tanzania to be involved in working with orphans and widows, as well as the development of a Christian radio station. I spent much of our trip grieving the losses our family will endure. This move is going to come at a great cost to our family as well as loved ones staying behind. I feel it would be so much easier to just walk away from this whole idea, but I also know that if this is where God wants us, we must obey or it will be even more costly. This isn't about us, but rather we need to remain in His will. I am confident now that God is wanting us to be involved with this particular ministry.
#3-to affect Collin's heart-The call we are feeling as a family has been a scary thing for all of us but especially for him. He was really struggling with the whole idea, understandably. We wanted him to see that Tanzania is not the end of the world but rather the other side of it. One day, while in Mwanza, he wrote in his journal, "We will leave in 2-3 days. I'm not completely sure I'm ready to go home. In fact, I'm not." I realize that 2+ weeks is nothing like living there but he has expressed to us that he is much less fearful and even a bit excited for the adventure to come and to go back to some of the friends he made there. He was also baptized in the spirit while we were there and received an encouraging prophecy over his life that he has "healing hands."
#4-to find and purchase land for the ministry-We found a 30+ acre plot of what seems to be perfect land. It lies in a valley surrounded by hills and has many mango trees. The main city of Mwanza lies just on the other side of the hills so it is remote without being too rural. The final purchase is still pending but it has been placed in the hands of a minister over there that the ministry is working with. The government has had favorable reactions to the ministry's vision. Please continue to pray as we wait on the finalization of that purchase.
I now feel it is time for us to begin our preparations to move. The ministry is wanting us over there by August of 2007 if possible. We will truly need God to do a major work for this to happen that quickly. We have our home to sell and everything in it, as well as our vehicles. We also need to raise the monthly support necesarry for us to be a part of this vision. We would very much apreciate if you would begin praying about how God can use you in this ministry. Wether it be that you join one of the many teams that will be travelling to Tanzania short-term to do contruction work or, later, support work or that you be involved in our monthly financial and/or prayer support team. Maybe you, or someone you know would be interested to come over longer-term at a later date to help with the hands-on of working in an orphanage. It is going to take many, many people for this ministry to be effective. Thanks again for your prayers. Keep them coming as we are just beginning.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Overcoming Your Fear of Missing God's Will
I'm sorry I haven't posted for several days. I guess we haven't had anything really big to post. I can share though that in our quiet times, Shannon and I are still feeling very strongly that we are currently on the path we should be on so we will continue full steam ahead, feeling confident about our goal.
I want to share something that Shannon shared with me today. He is on a prophetic email list and this came through there. I hope you enjoy this word as we did. I have permission to post it as follows:
Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep Elijah List website, email contact info, and author contact information intact.
I want to share something that Shannon shared with me today. He is on a prophetic email list and this came through there. I hope you enjoy this word as we did. I have permission to post it as follows:
Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep Elijah List website, email contact info, and author contact information intact.
John Paul Jackson: "OVERCOMING YOUR FEAR OF MISSING GOD'S WILL"
"The LORD will perfect that which concerns me...." Psalms 138:8
Life Is A Story
People often say that life is "like" a story. But that isn't true. Life "is" a story. Unfortunately, you just can't treat it like one--meaning, you can't flip to the end to see how it all turns out. Wouldn't trusting God be easier if He showed you just one more teeny, tiny glimpse of your destiny?
But, just as it is with a well-written story, you never really know what is going to happen next. You wake up in the morning and assume you're going to go to work. But you don't really know what is going to happen. You might lose your job today. Your car might get wrecked. It might hail today; it might rain. You might see a friend you haven't seen for years. Your parents might call you out of the blue.
Life unfolds daily. Curtains fall, and old eras end. But then new eras begin, and the curtains rise again. None of it makes sense unless you can start to understand the story--the purpose behind it all.
Many of you feel like you are 15 minutes too late for the train of life. You have missed where you are supposed to go. You have settled for God's second best. Because of past mistakes, you feel like you can achieve only the "good will" of God, not His "perfect will." And you feel you should be thrilled about that, but deep inside, you aren't. In fact, you are disenchanted. Some of you even feel hopeless.
But--life is a story. What makes a good story great? Depth. Adventure. Excitement. Not knowing. Huge odds. Great darkness defeated by great heroism. And because this is so, in the midst of every evil and dark thing you're feeling, your life story is being played out. Whether you feel like this is true or not, you are living the story God birthed you for. You are here for such a time as this.
This is the Best Time for You to be Born
He put you here on this planet, in this country, in the town you live in, in the home you live in. He placed you here for a specific purpose, and you are fulfilling that purpose even if you don't know it. God is a lot bigger than you expect Him to be; you might even be surprised. I know I am, whenever He reminds me of how deeply involved He is in the miniscule, forgotten-about, never-minded details of my life.
He is not giving up on you because you might have made some mistakes. He is still saying to you, "Follow Me! I created you for this time, for this very situation. I knew exactly what was going to be happening in your family, in your city, in your region, in your world, and I knew the impact you were going to have, and I said, 'This is the best time for you to be born!'"
It is never too late to accomplish the purpose for which God created you. Just because you are alive proves that purpose still exists for you.
Many of you need to defeat the battle of not trying. I believe it is time for many of you to try again.
You won't get there overnight.
Tomorrow morning, you won't wake up with it.
But tomorrow morning, you will be closer than you were today.
I believe it's time for many of you to walk into the purpose for which you were created.
(For more information on this topic, view below to order Regaining What You've Lost by John Paul Jackson.)
John Paul Jackson
Streams Ministries International
www.streamsministries.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elijah List Ministries
Email: elministries@elijahlist.net
Phone: 1-866-967-3665 or (541) 967-3665
Saturday, August 19, 2006
A Timely Message
Last evening, Shannon and I attended a house meeting at Wayne and Rev. Debra's home where we had the privilege, along with around 30 others, to hear Pastor Richard speak one last time before he leaves for his home in Tanzania next week. He delivered a message about discovering and following your destiny. Shannon and I were surprised when he had us turn in our bibles to 2Kings Chapter 2 to the passage about the calling of Elisha by Elijah. This being the same passage Shannon and I had been talking about between ourselves earlier in the week and that I had written about in my most recent post.
God has a a plan, or a destiny, for each of us. In fact, according to Psalms, He knew us before we were even formed in our mothers' wombs. We discover that plan by spending time with God in prayer and He will reveal it to us. It is then our responsibility, as Christians, to pursue it. The enemy will place obstacles in the path toward that plan in an effort to keep us from it. Often those obstacles will be from negative spirits attached to those that are close to us. In Matthew 16:21-23, the apostle Peter told Jesus that he would not fulfill his destiny. Jesus rebuked him saying, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."
Shannon and I have experienced mainly positive and supportive comments from those we have shared our plans with. There have been a few though, that have had negative thoughts to share with us. As we have talked about each of these comments in our time together, we have discovered one thing that runs throughout those negative words. The words seem to come from thinking of the things of man, rather than God. Concerns about our safety, illnesses, about how this will affect our children and leaving our extended family members behind, of finances, selling our home and possessions-these are all valid concerns through man's eyes but are invalid concerns when looked at through heavenly eyes.
Shannon and I are excited to be in pursuit of what we believe to be God's destiny for us. We know it will come at great cost. We also know that with the pursuit, will come great blessings.
God has a a plan, or a destiny, for each of us. In fact, according to Psalms, He knew us before we were even formed in our mothers' wombs. We discover that plan by spending time with God in prayer and He will reveal it to us. It is then our responsibility, as Christians, to pursue it. The enemy will place obstacles in the path toward that plan in an effort to keep us from it. Often those obstacles will be from negative spirits attached to those that are close to us. In Matthew 16:21-23, the apostle Peter told Jesus that he would not fulfill his destiny. Jesus rebuked him saying, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."
Shannon and I have experienced mainly positive and supportive comments from those we have shared our plans with. There have been a few though, that have had negative thoughts to share with us. As we have talked about each of these comments in our time together, we have discovered one thing that runs throughout those negative words. The words seem to come from thinking of the things of man, rather than God. Concerns about our safety, illnesses, about how this will affect our children and leaving our extended family members behind, of finances, selling our home and possessions-these are all valid concerns through man's eyes but are invalid concerns when looked at through heavenly eyes.
Shannon and I are excited to be in pursuit of what we believe to be God's destiny for us. We know it will come at great cost. We also know that with the pursuit, will come great blessings.
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