Trust in the Lord and Stay in the Race!

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Genesis 50:24-25 - "And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which He sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you, and ye shall carry up my bones from hence."

Joseph's family was still in Egypt when he died. He knew they would not be there for ever. But it came to a place and time (400 years later) when they had accomplished all that could be done in Egypt. It was time for them to go to "the promise!" You'd think that the promise was something they should have rushed toward - ASAP! But it was necessary that they go through the wilderness "school" before they were fit (prepared) for the promise.

Stuff had to be purged (burnt out). Stuff had to be laid aside (laid down). Stuff had to be pruned (cut off). It was necessary for Israel to learn patience as thy waited for God to bring them to the promise. They had to learn - it's not me, but it's US!

"Let us run this race with patience."

"Let patience have her perfect work."

We might not see the big "picture," but you can rest on the promise. He did not call you out so you could fail. He called you so you could be victorious! Jesus endured the cross... for the joy! We need to do the same - endure our cross. You can have joy in the midst of a trial. You can have everyone wondering what you're smiling about... not because of the tribulation, but because of what's on the other side!

Our witness needs to be about the goodness of God. That's what brought us into the truth. And it's what will bring them in too. This is the reason we hold on. This is the reason we don't give up. Think about it...! What happens if we get out of the race? They're watching us. We have a responsibility to them and to Him. As long as we trust Him and stay in the race, He has promised that we will reap the benefits. He wants to save more, fill more. The promise is there. It's prepared, waiting and ready for those who continue, those who endure, those whose eyes are on the promise, and who invite others to partake in the promise too.

Blemished Sacrifices

By Bishop Charles R. Grisham

Text: Romans 12:1-2 - "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
Hebrews 13:15 - "By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His Name."

In the times of the Old Testament, Jehovah required the best to be sacrificed -- nothing less would do. The best lamb, goat, heifer, bullock, turtledove, whatever -- it was necessary that it be the best they had. (Best, first, highest quality)

The New Testament requires a living sacrifice (us). The problem with living sacrifices is that they have this strange tendency to crawl off of the altar on a frequent basis. Some folks hang back because they are not ready to give their best. And even today, the only thing God tolerates by proxy is intercession. You can stand in for someone who is in need of salvation, deliverance, and/or healing -- by faith! This "standing in" does not save them, it's for the purpose of interceding that their "bonds/bands" will be broken/loosed. It seems that He smiles on this endeavor.

Let us compare our (New Testament) sacrifice to the Old Testament lamb...

PERFECT  -- --   SUB-STANDARD

flawless, spotless  -- --  blemished

whole  -- -- deficient

healthy -- -- diseased

clear-eyed -- --   rheumy w/cateracts

breathing clear -- -- mucus filled

sturdy -- -- lame

ears cleaned out -- -- deaf

clean -- -- filthy

blue ribbon best -- -- second string or less

first born -- -- runt 

What could be more important than coming to service to worship the King of kings?

Nothing!

OBJECTIONABLE SACRIFICES

Tardiness -- brings questions as to your commitment

Traffic -- traveling

Distractions

Disunity

Drowsiness (physical or spiritual)

In Malachi's day, God gave a scathing rebuke to the Jews who brought their lame and blind animals for their sacrifice. He saw it all -- -- what they brought AND what they left at home! (See Malachi 1:7-14.)

Ten Things My Dad Taught Me!

By Mark Henry

Text: Isaiah 38:18-20 -- "For the grave cannot praise Thee, death cannot celebrate Thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for Thy truth. The living, the living, he shall praise Thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known Thy truth. The LORD was ready to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD."

At the age of twelve, Jesus said, "Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?" Early on, He knew He was on a mission ordained by His Father, and had already purposed in His heart to carry it out faithfully.
.
My father and mother were divorced when I was still very young. I would spend the school weekdays with Mom and go to my Dad's on Fridays after school. Every Friday, as soon school let out, I'd climb to the highest point on the playground and begin my watch for my dad's truck to come into view. Many times over the years he took me with him to job sites. There I learned many important lessons. I've listed ten of them for this Father's Day message...

1. Work Hard - Not just a conqueror, but "more than conquerors." Dad said, "If you're willing to do hard work, you'll always have a job, 'cause [most] people won't work hard."
2. Do the Right Thing - Do it the right way. Share the truth with your children.
3. Hang in There - Life doesn't always bring pleasant surprises. Stay in the game. Never give up!
4. With Privilege Comes Responsibility - Be faithful in the small things and God will open the door to greater things. Peter was given the "keys"-- and also the responsibility (Acts 2, 8, & 10)
5. Be Faithful - Mark worked at pizza delivery for seven years - Dad said, "Work it well and see what happens." Clean the toilet, do whatever needs doing. Rejoice! Do it as unto the Lord!
6. God Will Make a Way - God will never allow you to get into a situation where He can't/won't provide the solution (a way of escape).
7. Reminders are Needed - Repetition/drill! It's needed! Read it again! Quit resisting! Get it done! Get busy! Otherwise, you're wasting time.
8. Learn to Take Correction - Sin has consequences. (Sinking sand, Bottomless pit) "Go and sin no more!" Walk in the Spirit - be led bu it! This proves you're a "son of God." Don't run away! Running makes for spiritual anemia. "Spiritual teenagers" won't take it. Growth is God's goal. He's a loving Father.
9. Let God Take You Home -- We don't know who's hurting. Wait on God's timing - He knows when - don't take it into your own hands. When HE's Ready!
10. Get Your Head Up! - Keep looking up! Redemption draws near. Your Help comes from "up." (the hills) Be strong, keep the commandments of God.

Editor's Note: Bro Mark Henry and his family serve as associate minsters under Bro. George Hicks in Boulder, Colorado. They visited with us over Father's Day weekend and New Life was blessed and strengthened by their ministry. He was recently ordained by the Colorado District of the United Pentecostal Church International.

Russian Report...

By Mark Stumbo
St. Petersburg, Russia

It is a very sensitive situation right now for Americans living in St. Petersburg, Russia.  A gap has widened in U.S. and Russian relations more than I have ever seen. The recent conflict in the Ukraine has the potential to directly or indirectly affect us and the work of the Lord in Russia and our contacts in the Ukraine. Not only are the Russians starting to feel the impact of sanctions, but since we live among the people we feel them as well. Prices for food and travel have already started to rise. In the future, I am sure items and services will be limited. We hear rumors from time to time that it will be harder for Americans who wish to life in the country to get visa documents, and that Master Card and American Express will stop doing business in Russia. Already, some 70 billion dollars' worth of investment has left the nation as the world has lost confidence in Mr. Putin, confidence which took him around fifteen years to build.

Right now, there is a tense calm. We are praying for God to give us direction and divine protection as we are unsure what will unfold in the future. Some of our Russian neighbors do not look at us in the same way they did before. We see a storm across the bow of the ship.

Nevertheless, we are still determined to step across the railing and out into the sea of humanity; not to sink in the storm around us, but to keep our eyes on Jesus. We know that if we look at the ominous clouds of uncertainty, we will sink in doubt and self-pity. If we look at the crashing waves around us, we will be drowned by the opinions and feelings of others. But if we look at Jesus -- He shows us the way.

As I write this report, this upcoming Sunday will see three young children from the Sunday School Department being baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. On the 25th of May, we are planning a city-wide outreach,expecting people to come and break through in the Spirit. This summer we are planning to host a special event reaching out to children through English Evangelism. So, let kingdoms rise up against kingdoms, nations against nations, but as long as the Lord gives us the ability we want to labor in His Kingdom. We are not blind to the struggles around us, but are praying for revival, praying for the expansion of the church, praying and planning for God to do great things!

Editorial Note: Bro. Mark Stumbo and his family are ALJC missionaries home-based in St. Petersburg, Russia, with outreach in numerous places around the nation. They solicit your prayers that revival and a Holy Ghost outpouring will saturate the Russian people, filling them and empowering them to be witnesses any and every where all over this enormous nation. Hearts are hungry, God is willing, laborers are needed, prayer is vital! 

My Little Friend

By Carol Warfield

My name is Minnie, where it came from I cannot say. I have a special look when my master comes my way.
She knows if I am hungry or need a special touch. She takes me for a walk or car ride which I enjoy so much. If a storm comes up, she's there to take away my fear and say, "It's all right my little one. I'm right here beside you. Everything's okay."

Whenever I need to relieve myself, she's Johnny on the spot, whether it's morning or the middle of the night. She's always there for me. If I'm in need of anything, she knows I'll give her just a small tap and a special look to say, "My water bowl is empty, please fill it right away." Sometimes I give her a special look because I'm wanting a real treat. All I have to do is lick my lips and she's on her way.

And if I'm feeling sick, she knows just what to do. Her gentle touch and whisper of prayer gets me back up on my feet. She knows where our help comes from and she quickly calls on His Name. For you see, God made us both to fulfill His purpose.

When my time comes to leave this life and go back to the dust, she'll have eternity to hear God say, "Well done, My child. You have done okay. (Proverbs 12:12; Psalm 36:6) We both have faced many trials in life. God has always seen us through and given us extra strength to make it through.

I'm grateful for my master, she has taken me to where I am today and I know I need not fear for God and my master are always near.

It's such a blessing and comfort to know each and every day -- I love my little friend God sent my way. If you could hear my heart, you would hear it say, Thank You, God, for Your blessings You so freely give. To know that Jesus loves us by the care He gives and sends our way. (Psalm 23:4)

Editorial Note: Carol and Don Warfield are faithful saints who've been a part of New Life over many years. She is an enthusiastic writer and lover of the Word, having read the Bible through well over 100 times. It's a source of joy to her heart. 

Remembering Ruby...

 

"Who can find a virtuous woman?

For her price is far above rubies."

(Proverbs 31:10)

Ruby Justice has been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember; first, as the mother of my "best friend," Shirley, then, as a close friend of my mom, and later, (after mama died) she became a friend to me. My general conference buddy, we traveled back and forth, sharing hotel rooms, plane rides, food and fun. We always had fun, no matter who else was with us. Count on Ruby to bring joy and laughter into any and every situation. No one could sit in the mulligrubs long when Ruby was around.

Jesus took Ruby home with Him on May 3rd. It's remarkable that her transition was so close to Mother's Day and that it was reuniting her with Shirley and Gene, as well as Eugene and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. What a reunion that must have been! 

Mother's Day always makes me think of the Proverbs 31 woman. And as I sat in her funeral service the following Friday, it came to me that Ruby was a Proverbs 31 woman, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great, great-grandmother! To illustrate what I mean, let's look at the Proverbs list with Ruby in mind...

• The heart of her husband safely trusts in her -- What loving care she took of Eugene, life-long!
• He lacks nothing of value -- Eugene oozed pride (the good kind) in his godly wife.
• She will do him good (not evil) all her life -- In sickness and in health, no matter what!
• She works willingly with her hands -- A spotless house, an open door, and a friendly welcome. 
• She gets up early and provides food for her family -- Truth, Lord!
• She's diligent, thrifty, careful, capable, and strong -- Ruby's life example was good stewardship.
• She was aware of her responsibilities and did them to the best of her ability.
• She was compassionate, reaching out to those who are hurting.
• When hard times came, she was not afraid for her family. She had provided for them.
• She dresses herself well -- Neat as a pin and twice as pretty (with help from Jim).
• She makes her husband look good. He is respected -- No wonder he was so proud of her!
• She's wise and kind, her instructions are faithful -- Were you listening? Do you remember?
• She takes good care of her house -- Oh, My! Need I say more on that score?
• She's not idle, nor is she a busybody -- My mom loved that about Ruby.
• Her children rise up and call her blessed -- More truth, and she deserved every word.
• Her husband "sang" her praises -- His heart and his home overflowed...
• Others do well and are virtuous, but she excels them all -- Ruby was a good example!
• Because she honored and feared the Lord, she shall be praised -- She was, is, and will be!

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting,

but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Give her the reward she has earned,

and let her works bring her praise..."

(Proverbs 31:30-31a, NIV)

 

Protecting the Harvest

A Poem By Marjorie Kinnee

An uneasy restlessness grips me.

Finding no simple solution, I begin to probe deeper,

Touching tender places, bruised and sore,

Seeking the core, the roots.

On my knees I crouch low;

The hot sun scorches my back

And I sweat in the heat..

It's hard work,

Work that I'd rather leave for a more convenient season,

When the sun's rays weren't so hot,

And the ground was softened by rain.

But the angle of the sun tells me

I haven't much time,

So, I poke and sift, pinching off insects

And driving away the pesky birds and bunnies

That would harm my harvest.

My heart is cheered when I pause

and realize that the Lord of the Harvest

Is working close by.

Inflating the "I"

By Marjorie Kinnee
Editorial

 Text: Jeremiah 9: 23-24 -- "Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches; but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the LORD which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth: for in these things I delight saith the LORD."

Certain forms of pride are acceptable; pride in your country, pride in your heritage, pride in your children's accomplishments, and in general, the sense of pleasure in well-doing.

The Big "I" -- But pride develops a problem when "I" is inflated. The greater the inflation, the more obvious "I" becomes. Sadly, prIde is quick to get out of hand. Any and every one else can see it, but the one doing the (self) inflating is running blind. His or her huge "I" is in the way. "For I say, through the grace that is given unto me, to ev ery man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think: but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith." (Romans 12:3)

So ho is it that we slip so easily over the line between acceptable pride in the accomplishments of others and the foolish self-inflating kind? The Bible is clear -- "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18) I believe the seeds of sinful pride germinate when we compare ourselves with others. "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves,and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. ...But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth." (II Corinthians 10:12, 17-18)

The first one to fall into the snare of prIde was LucIfer. His "I" got so inflated he thought to make God move aside so he could take over Heaven's Throne. What's more, it soon became plain that this kind of inflation was contagious. It spread like weeds. LucIiferian prIde so penetrated the ranks of the heavenly host that it had to be settled in a cataclysmic event. (See Luke 10:18; Isaiah 14:12-16; Ezekiel 28:11-19.) "For if a man think himself to be something,when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself." (Galatians 6:3) Although Lucifer (Satan) continues to germinate seeds of prIde in hearts and minds, his end is a foregone conclusion. (See Revelation 20:1-3, 10.)

Need help dealing with prIde? Dig into the Word! Cultivate it! Learn to think with the mind of Christ. Use the Word to defeat the suggestions and snares of the enemy of your soul. Allow the Word to do its holy work in your heart and mind. "For the Word of God is quick, [alive] and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,and the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: butall things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." (Hebrews 4:12-13) Filter out the weed seeds... prune... purge... Down with self-inflation! Glorify God!

Praise Him Through the Pain

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Acts 16:22-30
Key Verse: Acts 16:25 - "And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God; and the prisoners heard them."

When the multitude and the magistrates rose up against them, it wasn't the first time, nor would it be the last. Paul and Silas, in the process of fulfilling their calling, were speaking the truth and leading souls to Jesus.

Meanwhile, the world was using this young lady for their own selfish gain. (Isn't that typical?) Paul and Silas were used by God to deliver her from the torment that had her bound. But her masters were not happy about losing the income from her bondage. They incited a riot, resulting in Paul and Silas being beaten and thrown into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely. The jailor, concerned about keeping his job, thrust them into the inner prison and made their feet fast with stocks. There they sat; in the midst of their blood, the pain, and the pests, (rats, roaches, etc.,) that also inhabited that dreadful place.

Here are their reasons to praise - even in the midst of all these difficulties!

1.) HE is GOD - the Bible says, "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord." (Psalm 150:6) because of Who He is! Their predicament (beaten, shackled in the innermost prison with the rats,) not withstanding - at midnight, they prayed and sang praises - and the prisoners heard them.

• Don't wait for the perfect circumstance
• The enemy's desire is to thwart God.
• Praise changes the atmosphere...
• Suddenly - a great earthquake...
• Shook the foundation of their problem
• All the doors were opened
• Everyone's bands were loosed
• The Jailor became interested
• Salvation came to the jailor's house.

2.) Praise sets me free - and frees others too!

3.) Praise makes God attractive to others - the jailor and his household.

Psalm 27:6 - "And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will utter in His tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD."

Psalm 33:1 - "Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright."

Psalm 146:2 - "While I live will I praise the LORD: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being."

Psalm 147-1 - "Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God: for it is pleasant; and praise is comely."

My Burden

A Poem by
Charles R. Grisham

Oh, how I wished to drop my load,

Out where love's sweet waters flowed;

I stopped to rest, and there I sighed,

That God would end my foolish pride.

But as I sat, an angel came,

With heavenly love all aflame;

He bade me to myself deny,

And on my Master to rely.

Look ahead, and see the light,

That shines beyond all sense and sight;

Where glories of an all-pervading mind,

A universal heaven, unconfined.

Then ending all my needless weeping,

I arose to walk in the Father's blessing;

To gladly bear my earthly load,

Toward heaven's mighty blessed abode.

December 28, 1951

Are You Also Ready?

By Victolyn Flemmings

Key Verse: Matthew 24:44 - "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."

In the story of the ten virgins, the five wise were prepared, but the five foolish took no extra oil for their lamps. Indeed, they had oil in their lamps in the beginning, because their lamps were burning. But as the Bridegroom tarried, their lamps used up all the oil and went out. When the cry came, they had no extra oil to put in their lamps, whereas the wise virgins were able to trim their lamps and refill them with their oil on hand.

In his final letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul knew he was ready to meet his Saviour. "I have fought a good fight, I have kept the faith, I have finished my course," There were steps Paul had to take. He had to take. He was able to check each one and show he had earned it fair and square.

In order to be ready, we too, must make preparations. Take the Olympics for example, It takes years of preparation; consistent training, dedication, and sacrifice for an athlete to even consider participating, and when he wins a medal, he has earned it, fair and square.

As a registered nurse, I didn't just wake up one morning, after dreaming all night that I was a nurse, decide I wanted to take care of the sick, and put on a nurse's uniform, automatically becoming a nurse. The law dictates a certain amount of years in school with intense training and study of the anatomy of the human body, disease processes, plus so much more. I had to graduate from an accredited school of nursing, obtain passing grades in a national examination, apply for and receive a license before becoming a registered nurse.

Without preparation, there are no blessings.When Mary, the mother of Jesus, realized there was no more wine at the marriage supper, she told the servants to do whatever Jesus told them to do. Jesus instructed the servants to fill the containers with water. (See John 2:1-10.) Preparation was necessary.

When the army of Judah needed water, Elisha told them to dig a valley full of ditches. Without wind or rain the valley would be filled with water so they and all their animals could drink. (See II Kings 3.)

There are numerous instances in the Bible where good results follow a conscious deed or action of faith. Naaman the leper was told by Elisha to dip seven times in the river Jordan to receive his healing. At first, he refused, thinking that he was an important government official and that dipping in Jordan's water was beneath his dignity. But we see that when he obeyed, he was totally healed of his disease.

In Esther's day, the Jews were threatened with extermination; she told her people to fast and pray with her for three days and three nights, and that she would go before the king to petition for their lives. They did... She did... and, God did!

Finally, there was a widow who was in debt. Her creditors were going to sell her sons to get their money. Desperate, she went to the man of God, who used something she had in her house to "save the day." It took a single pot of oil and some effort on the part of her and her boys. Elisha told her to get all the empty pots she could get her hands on, even borrowing from her neighbors. Then she was to shut the door on herself and her two sons and pour from her one pot into all the other pots. Thanks be to God there was enough to fill all the other containers, which she sold and paid her debts. The amazing thing was that there was even oil left in the original container for her personal use.

The point I am trying to make is that these blessings and miracles happened after someone consciously made ready. The same principle could be applied to salvation. We are told to "...repent, and be baptized every one of you, in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38) Repentance and Baptism are conscious actions. The gift of the Holy Ghost is living water, the evidence of new life in Christ - the oil of gladness overflowing...

In these last days, we have something to do to be prepared for the coming of the Lord. We need to watch and pray, we must be steadfast and unmovable, we must be ready. Therefore,let us all do what is required of us. The steps are clear and simple.

1. You need an awareness of your sinful nature.
2. You must genuinely repent of all your sins.
3. You must be baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins.
4. You must receive the gift of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in other tongues.
5. You must live a holy life, studying the Word of God and consistent in prayer.
6. You need to be a part of a Bible-believing church that preaches the truth.

The question is: Are you also ready?

Editor's Note: Sis. Victolyn is the wife of Berris Flemmings. They are the parents of three adult children; Sherene, Shelee'Ann, and Berris Jr. (BJ) and proud grandparents of two boys; Carter and Ethan. It is a privilege to serve the Lord alongside this precious family. 

Mary

A Poem by
Joyce MacBeth Morehouse

She came quickly to the Garden

In the dew of early morn;

Hurrying to where they laid Him,

She knelt down to view His form.

But alas! Her Lord was missing!

And these angels? Who are they?

They stood guard in silent witness,

But the stone was rolled away.

As she stood there, weeping, stricken,

Wondering if this gardener knew.

Surely He could help her find Him;

Tell her what she ought to do;

"Can you tell me where they laid Him?

For they took my Lord, it seems."

All her hopes collapsed around her -

Broken heart and broken dreams.

As He eyed her with compassion,

Gazing in her face of fear,

His "Mary" came so gently

That was all she had to hear;

Reaching out in exultation,

Tears of joy,not sorrow, came,

For the tomb was truly empty -

Life would never be the same.

Editor's Note: Sis. Joyce is q licensed minister with the UPCI, living in Doaktown, New Brunswick, Canada - where she attends the United Pentecostal Church, (Pastor Russell H. Morehouse). Her friend, Norma Brewer, (London, Ontario) recommended Sis. Joyce to us, and spoke highly of her writing ministry. This is the first time we've presented her to our readers and are looking forward to more good things! This poem is copyrighted. Used by permission.

Seed for the Harvest

By Alan Demos

As Jesus spoke to both the multitudes and His own disciples, He knew that the Jewish people, however sincere or faithful, had no understanding of growth and harvest for their synagogues or the temple. They were people of tradition and Old Testament law. He had to prepare them to receive other sheep into His worldwide flock of believers. Several of His parables brought forth principles of the kingdom pertaining to evangelism, growth and the eventual harvest.

In the Sermon on the Mount, He taught that they would be “the salt of the earth,” and “the light of the world.” His plan was for them to influence more than one nation, one city and one religious group. All three Synoptic Gospels later record the parable of the sower. “A sower went forth to sow…” (Matt. 13:3.) In Matthew, Jesus pointed us to the ground when He said, “The field is the world.” Luke reveals what the seed should be. “The seed is the word of God.” (Luke 8:11) However humble the packaging, whatever the size or method of dispersion, the seed must be the Word of God and it must be planted in the ground! There we have it! God wants us to find a field, have the right seed in our hands, and sow! It doesn’t take an extensive knowledge of agriculture to be a sower – just willingness, time, a plot of ground, and some seed.

Have you found a field where you can labor faithfully for Him?

Finally, we must be patient. The seed we sow will rarely bring an instant harvest. Our love will be the sunshine; our tears in prayer will be the water. Yet, the regenerating power of the Word has to work through burial, germination, plant growth, flowers and, finally, in due season, the harvest. The faithful sower understands the principles of the harvest. He labors with purpose, beginning by preparing the seed. He knows that no two crops reach harvest in the same time period – the timing is ordered by God. Our Creator insured in the beginning (Genesis 1:11-12) that there would be future natural harvests when He created the plants and the trees with seed within. We learn what we need to know about spiritual harvesting by studying natural harvesting.

Has the seed been placed within you that will bring forth a harvest?

We live with fields all around us – big cities, small towns, and villages. The people into whose hearts we must plant the seed are not hard to find. They’re at home, at work, at school, on the streets and in our neighborhoods. How do we turn barren, unprepared soil into a harvest field? People who don’t believe in God or know who He is are not candidates for the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Faith in Jesus Christ comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God! The seed must be sown to bring forth faith! Jesus prepared for Pentecost by adding knowledge and understanding that would lead them to New Testament salvation. For three years He ministered through miracles and healings, taught and preached, rebuked the wayward and comforted the suffering. Why was He taking so much time to lay the groundwork?

He was preparing the ground even as He was preparing the seed.

None of us will ever be as effective as Jesus Christ, but He expects us to be both sowers and harvesters! Each of us can hide the Word in our hearts and minds, find a field, and decide how to plant, using our own chosen method. Some will pass out tracts to strangers or distribute literature in a neighborhood; some will preach from a pulpit; some will teach children in a Sunday School class; some will teach others in a home; others will just speak gently and persistently with a friend. No method is more important than another! No venue is off-limits!

The only requirement is that we sow His Word!

The written Word of God in a condensed version, a summary or an introduction, is called a tract, whether evangelistic for the unbeliever or doctrinal for the believer. Let’s supply ourselves with Gospel literature to use wherever we walk in our fields. Let us pray to be led by the Holy Ghost in our sowing. It is not for us to inspect the soil. We are called to sow on all kinds of ground - good ground and poor ground. Literature is a time and cost effective means of connecting God with believers needing more truth or sinners needing salvation. Literature should go out to those who don’t know about, or, are not yet ready for, our churches.

A literature evangelist can easily distribute more than a hundred tracts

in the same time that it takes to give a one-hour Bible study!

Literature ministry fulfills the purpose of God revealed in the parable of the marriage. The king said, “Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.” (Matthew 22:9). We can’t wait for them to come into our churches; we must go out to invite them. Without a doubt, we will not be wasting our time. “Cast thy bread upon the waters… for thou shalt find it after many days.” (Ecclesiastes 11:1-6) SOW faithfully in faith, and in God’s time, the Harvest will come.

Why not begin to utilize the wonderful tool of literature in your daily life

as you seek to win souls and lay a harvest at Jesus’ feet in eternity?

Editor's Note: Bro. Alan Demos and his wife Valerie have served as UPCI missionaries to the nation of Germany for many years. Bro. Demos skills and experience in literature ministry are legendary. In this article, he presents the concept of a literature ministry. Next month, we will feature a more in-depth look at what sowing the seed of the Word entails and the rewards it brings.

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Praise Report - from India!

 By Colleen Flanagan

We had our Unity Conference, and it did just that - it brought our little"family of God" together in unity! It was such a joy watching them come together all week long, practicing songs, working on the church, connecting the sound system, putting up signs, shopping, cooking - pulling together! They truly worked in "one mind and one accord!"

We did a PowerPoint to "God of this City." We tried to get a projector, but brought in a big screen monitor instead.

The little children called to me as we walked through the neighborhood; many came in and joined us. Four little girls learned "Jesus Loves Me" and we included that in the program. This has inspired so many, and now, next week, we are starting a Sunday School Program for them. We are so-oo excited!

To top things off, the "icing on the cake," the main Sunday School teacher here got the Holy Ghost on Sunday! That makes 25 since I've been here! God is so good! The ears are "tingling" here at what is happening in this little body of believers. Please keep me in your prayers. After all the fasting, praying, practicing, preaching, teaching - my body is weak. (I'm to speak at a non-Apostolic church this Sunday evening.) As I told God's people hereon Saturday, I can see the nail-scarred hands applauding, and hear Him saying, "Well done!"

Editor's Note: Sis. Colleen is amember of the Apostolic Church in Auburn Hills, Michigan (Pastor Steve Warman). She serves in short-term, A.I.M.-type ministries around the world and is currently serving in India. Sis Colleen also led our own Sis. Keila Fischer to the Lord through outreach to rehab housefor ladies back in 1998. 

Seasonal Affective Disorder

By Rufus M. Parker

Text: John 14:1-4 - "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know."

Reading in the paper a few weeks ago, I learned there is a new disease called "SAD" - an acronym that stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. I thought to myself - "What?" They said because it had been so cold this winter, many people have not been able to get out of their houses and do things. They become negatively affected by having to remain inside and are depressed. The article went on to say it can affect people in the spring and fall too.

Now, I know this is a trick of the devil if people are depressed in the spring and summer! Man, I'm smelling the roses and drowning some worms during those two seasons. There isn't going to be any depression here. I don't know about you, but as for me and my house, we are going outside in all seasons. People go to the beach and pool to swim and get wet, and then stay inside when it rains. Get your umbrella out, get outside, and get wet, and enjoy what God has provided. Don't stay inside and mope because of the snow. Make a snow man. I like shoveling and even eating some of it, as long as it isn't yellow.

I like standing outside in the cold for a while. It helps you get rid of the impurities in your body. For me, I'm affected by every season. Winter, I rejoice. Summer, I rejoice. Spring, I rejoice. And yes, Fall, I rejoice. Do you know why? Because the Bible says, "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24) Seasons come and seasons go, but the Word of the LORD is for ever. And He tells me to rejoice for evermore.

Editor's Note: Bro. Parker, former missionary to Okinawa and Mongolia, pastors Calvary Apostolic Church UPC in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He has authored a number of books and publishes a daily blog called, "Morning Manna." Link: http://morningmanna-parker.blogspot.com 

On Praying Through...

By Marjorie Kinnee
Editorial

Text: Matthew 25:1-13 ~ Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins
Key Verse: "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." (Luke 21:36)

The old-timers called it "praying through" and frequently mentioned it in victorious testimonies. Because I was a rather obstreperous child, my mother would say, "It's time you prayed through, Marjie Jean! You're so much easier to deal with when you've just prayed through." Bro. C.C. Kirby, my pastor for the first 16 years of my life, frequently said we should all be, "Prayed up... packed up... and ready to go up."

Praying through is an accurate description of its definition. As the old-timers used it - it meant that one had prayed until they felt they had overcome something and then given a release in their Spirit. Hence - "Praying Through!" It might have taken minutes or hours, but it was earnest, sincere, serious praying.

There is another realm beside the flesh and blood world in which we currently live and move around. This "world" is more real than the food we eat, the clothes we wear, and the chair we sit on. It's not spooky, nor is it science fiction; it's the Spirit world in which God Himself and His heavenly host of ministering spirits (angels) dwell. It's not a restricted world, oh no! It's unfettered by time and space, and it's focus is on the redeemed and those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. All angels serve as ministering spirits.

This spirit world is also inhabited by God's arch-enemy, Lucifer, who was called the son of the morning. (See Isaiah 14:12-16; Ezekiel 28:12-19; Luke 10:18; and Jude 6.) Lucifer, now know as Satan, rebelled against God and drew one-third of the holy angels under his sway. These, though evil and unrepentant, continue to minister; but now for evil and to thwart God's desire that all should come to repentance.

The Bible reveals that these ministering spirits (angels, both good and evil,) take an active interest in humankind. Both are transfixed by, and intrigued about our salvation.

• They desire to look into our salvation - I Peter 1:12
• They are "watchers" - Daniel 4:17; I Corinthians 11:10
• They herald tidings - Daniel 9:21-22; 10:12-13; Luke 1:26; Matthew 1:20; and Luke 2:9-10 (See I Kings 22:14-23, 28 also.) 
• They intervene - Genesis 18:2-22; 19:1-20; and Hebrews 13:2

Key in all this is our response. Drawing from the inference in I Corinthians 11:10 - "because of the angels," (See also Ecclesiastes 5:6.) we can see that angels"watch" for signs every human displays - by their responses to life, to events, and especially to the preached Word. A rebellious heart is revealed by acts and words of disobedience, even small ones! Our rebellions stir up angelic activity - the good, to rescue if possible without violating our will; the evil, to foster further signs of open rebellion.

Our flesh is one-third of our three-fold enemy. John told us we should, "love not the world, neither the things that are in the world," which are - "the lust of the eyes" [world], "the lust of the flesh," [flesh] and, "the pride of life" [the devil], (See I John 2:15-17.) Paul said we must fight it, subdue it,and make it obey the Spirit that dwells in us. He referred to it as "spiritual warfare" and likened it to soldiering. He said, "Put on the whole armor of God." This armor is needful when fighting off our enemies. Finally, Paul also said that this spiritual battle is daily. It must be fought at a moment's notice. We must be alert, prepared, and ready to fight - not against persons or even personalities. We fight against spiritual wickedness as it attacks us! We do not fight alone, but we must do our part.

Praying through speaks of the ability to press past the opposition (the world, the flesh, and the devil,) and into the freedom of victory, a.k.a. overcoming! Praying through is first and foremost... Praying! Jesus said, "Men ought always to pray." and, "Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation." He led by example in that He consistently prayed and taught His disciples to pray. In Acts 2, those disciples became empowered apostles. They were men of prayer; they also gave themselves to studying the Word. If prayer is our friend and helper, then the Word of God is our arsenal. Jesus overcame the enemy with the words, "It is written." So, hiding the Word of God in our heart becomes our weapon; and "praying through" presses past the enemy's onslaught.

If the five foolish virgins had been "praying through" - "prayed up, and packed up," they would have been "ready to go up." The wise had prayed through; they were ready when the midnight cry came, needing only to trim the wick and light the fire in their lamps. When one prays through they refresh their Holy Ghost experience. They speak in tongues, they light the fire, stir up the coals, and put fresh fuel on them. Note that when the apostles prayed through they were all filled with the Holy Ghost again! (See Acts 4:31.)

Praying through strengthens and helps you win in your battle against the enemy of your soul. It parallels the birthing process in that it includes travail and bearing down. It's a desperate struggle to bring forth new life, (death hovers nearby,) yet, when the battle is over and that new life is now visible and tangible, the celebration begins.

Praying through is wisdom. Keeping prayed through is essential - something no one else can do for you. You must do it for yourself. You can "intercede" for others, but your "praying through" cannot do their part, nor can they do your part. We need the refreshing winds of the Holy Spirit to fill us and fuel us in our quest for the victory known only to those who overcome. It's a daily thing! Staying prayed through will help you be ready for and aware of the midnight cry, "Behold, He cometh! Go ye out to meet Him!" Just before He ascended, Jesus said, "Go, and tarry in Jerusalem [wait in prayer] until ye be endued with power from on high." (Acts 1:4-5)

Pray Through!

Walking In the Love of God

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Ephesians 5:1-2 - "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour."

Children tend to follow their parents just because they are their mom and dad. If we are truly a child of God, we will want to be "like daddy." (We cry, "Abba - Father!") Because He has loved and blessed us, we need to want to give back to Him in return.

Love takes risks... "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) That's one of the greatest things about Jesus... "But God commendeth His love toward us in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)

• Walk in Love - do it until it feels natural.
• Guard Your Love! - "And because wickedness shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." (Matthew 24:12) 

The apostle John tells us... "God is love," (I John 4:8, 16) and that "love is of God." (I John 4:7)  Moreover, John said, "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us..." (I John 4:10) and, "We love Him, because He first loved us." (I John 4:19) Let's take a closer look...

1. The Origin of Love - God. God IS love! John 3:16-18 and chapters 13, through 17 are outpourings of the love Jesus had for His disciples, the church they were going to gather for His Name's sake, and us, who would believe on Him through their word. Families have falling outs - it's normal. Yet Jesus said, "Love one another." Everybody needs love. If you say you have the Holy Ghost but don't love - somebody's lying - and it's not God! It takes the Holy Ghost to produce the fruit of the Spirit; (Galatians 5:22) and the first fruit mentioned is love.
2. The Focus/Object of Love - God first. Then, thy neighbor as thyself. Neighbors include your family, your church family, (the brotherhood,) your friends, co-workers, and those in your neighborhood. And don't forget your enemies! We're to love them too!
3. The Nature of Love - It's found in I Corinthians 13... It suffers long, it's kind, it envieth not, it's not puffed up, it is not easily provoked, it thinks no evil, it rejoices in the truth, and it beareth, endureth, and hopeth all things. "Love covers a multitude of sin." (I Peter 4:4)
4. The Blessings [Results] of Love - The Lord has promised a "crown of life" to them that love Him. (James 1:12) Furthermore, we are also promised that "all things will work together for good to them that love God." (Romans 8:28)

The enemy of your soul wants to thwart the love of God to you, for you, and in you. His purpose is to derail the love in your heart for God and for others. He's a thief and a robber - don't let him steal your love!

Room to Grow?

By Bishop Charles R. Grisham

Scripture Base: Philippians 3:12 - "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which I am also apprehended of Christ Jesus."

Do you still have room to grow? One of the most dangerous things that can happen is to feel we have "already arrived." There are those in this world who continually measure themselves by foolish comparisons to others they think are far below their standard. Paul issued a strong warning concerning this; "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measure themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise." (II Corinthians 10:12)

Jesus warned repeatedly of the leaven of the Pharisees; (spiritual pride,) the attitude that is afflicted with the infectiousness of arrogance, the idea that "I have arrived." or that, "I am perfect." He said, "A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump." Once they obeyed all their own rules to their own satisfaction, they set out to impose themselves upon others. Jesus warned about three leavens. They were...

• the leaven of the Pharisees - spiritual pride
• the leaven of the Sadducees - power and control
• the leaven of Herod - the kingdom of self

These three Jewish political sects thought only of perpetuating their own power base. Jesus' warnings were well documented. (See Matthew 23.) Interestingly, these leavens became the apostasy of the New Testament church.

There are those who have obeyed a set of rules and now feel they have the right to "look down" on others they feel are less perfect. When a person begins to pride themselves with being the best, or the holiest of all, they have placed a lid on their potential to grow. After all, they think they are the best, greatest, and holiest in every way. It's like the old popular song that said, "Oh Lord, it's hard to be humble when you're perfect in every way." They are blinded to reality...

• "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods,and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked;" (Revelation 3:17)

When we think we have already arrived we cannot grow and progress. There seems to be a necessity of need in order to progress spiritually. The apostle Paul never stopped reaching... pressing... striving. He always kept a pace of trying to get nearer to God. He made it clear he didn't think he had arrived. He said he was still trying to grow.

• "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14)

Do you think you have already arrived? Or, do you think there is still room to grow? It's a serious matter!

Why Hadn't They Heard?

By Donna Franklin

Texts:
Mark 1:1 - "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God."
Mark 1:4 – "John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins."
Acts 19:1-6 – "And it came to pass, that…Paul…came to Ephesus, and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since you believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus."
Acts 2:38 – "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

Mark tells us that John the Baptist was “the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” Luke tells us, in the book of Acts, that Peter required every baptism to be in the name of Jesus Christ. Peter had been given the keys to the Kingdom and knew what Jesus had taught. And the other eleven apostles stood up with him in agreement.

Nowhere in the Acts of the Apostles did they baptize any way but in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 4:12 says "there is no other name..." Yet, here we learn that John the Baptist — from the very beginning — did NOT baptize in the titles, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. If he had, his disciples would not have told Paul they hadn’t so much as HEARD whether there be any Holy Ghost. He certainly would have explained to them about “the third person in God,” if he believed in such a thing.


What about Matthew 28:19, you say? Tell you what. Find someone who teaches the English language, and ask that person to diagram that sentence. They will show you how that “in the name” is a prepositional phrase and below it there will be three more prepositional phrases that belong to it. Do notice that “name” is SINGULAR. What does that mean? It means that all the titles listed below it are referring to a single name! Go back to the book of Acts, and I’m fairly sure you will be able to figure out what that name is. Yes, it is JESUS!

Edtorial Note: Sis. Donna Franklin is a faithful member of the United Pentecostal Church in Paoli, Oklahoma (Pastor Terry Erwin). She loves to write and is a strong believer in Bible truth. 

Raise His Banner High!

By Jill Friedman

Whenever Bro. Charles Wilson came to the platform,I knew he was going to cheer me up by preaching faith and a positive message like no one else could. In my mind he is still preaching. There are no limits to Charles' God, who is everywhere and everything wonderful.

I'll never forget his story about the difference between an optimist and a pessimist: "You can put a pessimist in a room full of gold and he'll find a flaw in something; but if you put an optimist in a room full of horse manure, he'll say, "Oh boy! There must be a pony in here somewhere!"

I considered the home in which the Wilson boys were raised. The steadfast, quiet assurance in God of Bro. Wilson, Sr., must have had a profound influence on his sons because his steady faith is found in them also. There's no shadow of wavering. This friendly man wants to serve God. He has no hidden agendas. He is cheerful, willing, and quick to respond to needs as they arise. His joy is in the Lord. Nobody can take that away. Although Sis. Wilson has gone on home to glory, her excited testimonies and zeal for the Lord linger. her cheerfulness and kind words helped me many times. Her calm understanding had a steadying effect on her home. She busily worked on a job until she retired, but still managed to put God first. She based her family on a good foundation, the Word of God. With her husband, they two pulled together for over fifty years. Faithfulness and authority stabilized their efforts.

This family caught a glimpse of the gold in the hills of God. The extreme riches that are hidden to most have always been open to their eyes. The Wilsons visualized the beauty and romance, pageantry and great adventure of being a Christian while some cannot get past the drudgery of every day life in the wilderness.

Jesus, please anoint our eyes with eye salve and let us buy this gold. May we too wear the garments of the Christian life with grace and hope and joy. Let us lift Your banner high (as Bro. Charles was taught, believed, preached, and lived,) and "do exploits" in Jesus' Name!

Editor's Note: Sunday School Teacher, leader of our puppet ministry, saxophone player, and singer of unique songs - Sis. Jill is a multi-talented lady and a willing worker in the Kingdom of God.

A Few Good Men

By Don Warfield, Sr.

If history proves anything, it proves that there has never been a great supply of good men. It's the few who overturn the tyrant, rebuild the nation, or cause people to fall on their knees before God in repentance. Throughout history, God has always found these few good men who would rise to His cause and defeat the enemy.

The Jews of Jesus' day referred to the fathers of their nation; Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as three good men. In our own country, a few good men signed the Declaration of Independence, which was considered an act of treason by the king of England. Years later, during World War II, God had prepared a few good men to lead the world to victory. Some of those [first] names were Ike, Winston, and Franklin.

All through the Bible you will find records of a few good men; Joseph, Joshua, Caleb, all those listed in the book of Judges: down through time they march. Jesus had only twelve disciples, yet they turned the world upside down with the Gospel. What ingredients made these men good men?

Daniel, chapter one, tells us that Daniel purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king's meat or drink. It was this same purpose of heart that made Joseph turn down the pleasures of Egypt, which eventually saved his entire family from starvation, and made Joshua declare, "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." This same purpose made the disciples say, "We ought to obey God rather than man."

We need to look for good men to follow after. I thank God for my earthly father, who was a good father. When I was a child, he took me fishing and hunting. He always showed an interest in my schooling. He fathered me right up until his death. He was there when I needed him. He taught me to work because I never saw him hanging around the house without a job. He taught me to give by his generosity to others. But even with all the things he taught me - I will never be my father. Rather, I am to be an extension of my father, striving to be the man God wants me to be.

If we are ever to be one of the few good men, it won't happen automatically. You won't be a good father, a good husband, or a good neighbor unless you purpose in your heart as all good men before you have done. You will have to keep renewing that purpose in the face of all hell. Only as we stay in submission to God can He make us the man He wants us to be. Then, and only then can others say, "There goes one of the few good men!"

Editor's Note: Leader of our Home Bible Study ministry, a member of our adult Sunday School class teaching roster, and a faithful usher, Bro. Don Warfield is a blessing to the New Life Apostolic Church family. We are privileged to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in such company.

For What Purpose was I Born?

By Charles C. Kirby
(A radio message dated November 11, 1945)

Inasmuch as all are born without their own consent, can it be that we are the helpless victims of Nature? Is it not more probable that those who are unhappy in this life have failed to fulfill the purpose of their birth?

When Christ was born, the Jews believed that He had come for the purpose of overthrowing Roman power and establishing the throne of David. When He failed to do that for which they thought He had come, they were sorely disappointed and immediately began to prepare to kill Him. Nevertheless, the Voice of God spoke from Heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." Evidently, Jesus was fulfilling His Heavenly purpose in life. What then was the purpose for which He was born? When we discover that, we have the key to every problem in our life; for Christ is and was the great example to all mankind. Pilate asked Him, "Art Thou a king then?" Jesus answered, "Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth." (John 18:37) He being an example unto us, therefore, let us also bear witness unto the truth.

Seven hundred years before the birth of Christ, the prophet Isaiah revealed the plan and purpose of God coming into the world to be born of a woman. Practically all things in the universe act according to the law of cause and effect. The cause for the coming of Christ is found - a deplorable condition upon earth that required the aid of a Saviour from Heaven. "And judgment is turned away backward and justice standeth afar off, for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. Yea, truth faileth and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey. And the LORD saw it and it displeased Him that there was no judgment. And He saw that there was no man and wondered that there was no intercessor. Therefore, His arm brought Salvation unto Him and His righteousness it sustained Him. For He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of Salvation upon His head; and He put on garments for clothing and was clad with zeal as a cloak." (Isaiah 59:14-17)

I have little or no confidence in any man's religious profession when it is not put into practice with a good supply of zeal. Christ Jesus came to the world and found the nations bound by their superstitions, ignorance, and fear, even in the children. The rulers of the Temple and synagogues were bound by sinful habits, which, although they condemned them in others, they condoned them in themselves. The lies of the satanic being who had deceived mother Eve into sinning had thoroughly schooled the inhabitants of the earth in his evil teachings and cunning ways: men living in sin without shame. Yes, they worshipped gods that were not real. They defiled themselves and all who came in contact with them. Jesus told the Pharisees that they compassed land and sea to make one convert, and when he was converted to their belief he was without doubt a confirmed child of the devil and headed for hell. In the midst of such gross darkness, sin, and shame, Christ stood forth as the world's only hope. And, please be informed that Christ is still the only hope for the world of today. When men could not penetrate the darkness of sin and unbelief, Christ was the light. When they knew not which course to pursue, Christ was the way. When they were dying physically and mentally, (dying in body and soul,) Christ was the life. And when they could not discern between right and wrong, Christ was the truth. He said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)

How weighty the words of Christ, "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth."

• "O Truth,Thou art the guide to all that stumble in darkness; Thou art the hope of all who perish today in the pangs of death and sin; Thy lamp of light is the beacon that guides life's lost sailors into the Haven of rest. Thy Word is the bread that makes the weak strong. Thy Spirit is the garment of righteousness that is given to clothe the naked. And, Truth, Thou art more precious than the gold of Ophir. Thy Words are like apples of gold in pitchers of silver. Thou hast escaped the search of the wise and prudent." [Source unknown]

And even those who brought the atoms under control, making possible the discovery of the atom bomb have been unable to find and analyze truth. But, thanks be to our Great God, this secret has been given to the meek of the earth, God having passed by the door of the high and mighty, chose rather to dwell in the hearts of the meek and lowly. Christ Jesus came from the glory world to bring truth to the earth. Even though His personal ministry was limited to but a small portion of the earth, earth's billions have been privileged to hear His gentle voice, "Come unto Me." He stands out today as the light of the world and the personification of truth. So far-reaching has His life and ministry been that millions down through the centuries of time have been set free through His Word and Spirit.

The miraculous success of the apostles of the early church was built upon this foundation. They were filled with the Spirit of Truth, which is the Holy Ghost. The souls of the apostles were as burning torches touched by the fire of the Spirit of Christ, the light of life, and the more abundant life. Just before Jesus went away, He said unto His disciples, "These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalms concerning Me. Then opened He their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures and He said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His Name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things." (Luke 24:44-48)

Why was I born? Well might the apostles have asked this question of themselves until the day when Christ filled them with His Spirit and sent them forth to bear witness to the truth. Here was the answer to the eternal question, "Why was I born?" Here was the fulfillment of life and living. Here was a purpose, here was a mission and a goal - to bear witness to the truth. The lives of the apostles, like all true Christians of this generation, were filled with the life of Christ. His purpose was their purpose. His mission was their mission. His truth became their truth. "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, to bear witness unto the truth." The God who made the universe, He who made man in the beginning and breathed into him the breath of life - yes, God,our Great Creator, came down through more than forty generations of His children and was born of a woman to bear witness to the truth. Before the light of His Spirit, before the piercing light that burned in His eyes; the hearts of men melted to the point of public confessions. The healing eyes of the Spirit of Truth, like the balm in Gilead, healed again the hearts that were torn and bleeding.

At Jacob's well this man of truth drew from the depths of a Samaritan woman's heart the confession of a life wasted in sin. And there, this great Son of Jacob offered her the water of life that could wash away each guilty stain. This was the ministry of all Spirit-filled preachers in the apostolic era. That is exactly what Jesus did when He sent forth His ministers to make disciples of all nations. The powers of darkness were greater than the men who were to be sent against it. Therefore, Jesus said unto them, "Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you. But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high." (Luke 24:49)

Now turn to the second chapter of the book of Acts. There you may read the account of the coming of the Holy Ghost Fire. This, of course, was the Pentecostal Fire. When the multitude that gathered heard the apostle Peter preach unto them that in Jesus Christ was the redemption for all mankind, they became convicted of their sins and asked, saying, "Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent!" Then and only then will God answer for you that eternal question, "Why was I born?"

By your first birth you were born in sin, therefore Jesus said, "Except a man be born again, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God." (John 3:3-5) By virtue of the second birth, a birth of the water and Spirit, which is baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, you become a child of the Kingdom, a witness of the Truth, and you will also know the purpose for which you were born.

Servant, Friend, Steward, Son

By Marjorie Kinnee
Editorial

Text: John 15:14-15 – “Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends: for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you.”

God's Word uses many examples to illustrate levels of service in His Kingdom. He speaks of bearing fruit and bearing much fruit. He also speaks of of a harvest yielding thirty, sixty, and a hundred-fold and vessels of honor and dishonor. Talents are disbursed as five, two, and one – each recipient is expected to work with what he's been given. Diligence and faithfulness add to that and reward or punishment is administered accordingly. At the Judgment Seat of Christ, works are divided, depending on whether they survive the fire of His scrutiny; gold, silver, and precious stones, versus wood, hay, and stubble. Let's compare servants, friends, stewards and sons...

Servant – The American Heritage Dictionary says a servant is: 1.) One who is privately employed to perform domestic services, [cook, butler, housekeeper, maid, etc.] 2.) One who is publicly employed to perform services, as for a government [civil servant]. [Elisha was servant to Elijah. Gehazi was servant to Elisha.]

1. Jesus said a servant doesn't know the mind of his master. (John 15:15)
   
2. Jesus came to serve – He made Himself of no reputation. (Philippians 2:7-8)
   
3. For Kingdom servants, the way up is down. (Matthew 20:27; I Corinthians 9:19)
   
4. Kingdom servants do so by love. (Galatians 5:13) Old Testament – Love-slaves (Exodus 21:2-6)
   

Friend – A friend is a person whom one knows, likes, and trusts. [David and Jonathan were friends.]

1. Jesus said, “You are My friends if you do whatsoever I command.” (John 15:15)
   
2. Friends are informed about what's going on; they hear and heed. (John 15:15; Romans 12:2)
   
3. Friends learn to be of one mind (unity) with each other. (Philippians 2:5)
   
4. A friend loveth at all times. (Proverbs 17:17)
   
5. Abraham was God's friend. (Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23) Moses too! (Exodus 33:11a)
   
6. Friends Believe Friends. (Romans 4:3; James 2:23)
   

Steward – A steward is one who manages another's property, finances, or other affairs.

1. At one time, Abraham asked if his steward, Eleazar, would be his heir. (Genesis 15:2-6) Later, faithful Eleazar was sent to bring back a wife for Isaac. (Genesis 24)
   
2. A steward must be faithful. (I Corinthians 4:1-2)
   
3. Faithful stewards are rewarded. (Luke 12:42-44)
   

Son – A son is one's male child; one's son may be so by blood or by adoption. [Solomon was David's son.]

1. Isaac, not Ishmael, was Abraham's son of promise. (Genesis 21:12; Romans 9:7-9)
   
2. A son inherits, he is his father's heir. (Galatians 4:7; I John 3:1-3) We are too! (Galatians 4:28-29)
   
3. A son learns obedience. (Hebrews 5:8; 12:7)
   
4. A son is disciplined (with love) while learning obedience. (Hebrews 12:5-13; Proverbs 3:12)
   
5. Sons love fathers. (John 5:19-20) Fathers love sons. (John 14:15, 21, 23; 15:10)
   
6. Sons of God are those who are led by His Spirit. (Romans 8:14-17)
   

Amazing that we need not be limited to any single one of these categories! James says we can be “perfect and entire, wanting [lacking] nothing.” (James 1:4b) Peter speaks of an “abundant entrance.” ((II Peter 1:11) This is how it's done: “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that Great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrew 13:20-21)

May we each hear Him say, “Well done!”

I've Heard, I've Seen, I Will Heal Thee!

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: II Kings 20:5 - "...Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears, behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD."

1.) God hears... "I love the LORD, because He hath heard my voice and my supplications, because He hath inclined His ear unto me, therefore will I call upon Him as long as I live." (Psalm 116:1-2)

• a shout on the rooftop
• a whisper in the closet
• a moan in the midnight hour
• a secret thought
• a cry of distress
• prayer

When He hears - He listens and responds. "...the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16b)

2.) God sees... Nothing is hidden from Him with whom we have to do.

• when tears fall like rain
• when your heart is overwhelmed
• when the load is more than you can bear

When He sees - it moves Him. He feels. He remembers our frailty.

"...Come boldly before the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy..." (Hebrews 4:15-16)

3.) God says... "I will heal thee!" (See II Chronicles 7:14.)

• I heard
• I saw
• I understand (know) your need
• I will heal and deliver

Fall in line with God - and - regardless of my circumstances... When He and me agree (are on the same side,) - the result is - A Miracle!

The old song says, "I Got a Feeling - Everything's Gonna Be Alright!"

The woman with the issue of blood had a need that overcame her timidity, her illness, and her weakness. She pressed her way to her healing!

God spoke to Moses - "I AM that I AM." I am all that you need.

This is your (rhema) Word from the Lord...

• You've been bound long enough
• You've cried long enough
• You've felt alone long enough

He's heard... He's seen... He will heal!

God never loses His power. He sits high and looks low. You may be wondering why there are so many healings in third world countries? The difference is - they hear the Word and believe it - whether they understand it or not.

God says, "It's time for deliverance!"

• His plan is at work
• He's a God of plenty
• His storehouse is full - there's more for you
• It's time to be set free!

LET GOD BE GOD!

It's Time!

All Over the World!

By Bishop Charles R. Grisham

What's all this talk about the Holy Ghost?

"Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed?" This question was asked by the Apostle Paul in Acts 19:2, and it is the question we wish to ask you today... It could be the most important question of your life!

Joel, the Old Testament prophet foretold, "And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; and also upon the servants and the handmaids in those days will I pour out of My Spirit." (Joel 2:28)

In the New Testament, John the baptist, speaking of Jesus, said, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; ...but He who cometh after me shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." (Matthew 3:11)

Further, we see that Jesus commanded His disciples, "...not to depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith He, Ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:4-5)

This faithful band of believers obeyed the command of Jesus and they received the promise. Thus the church was born. We can read the powerful story... "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:1-4)

Jesus had told them it would happen. Prophecy had been fulfilled. Jesus had sent back His own Spirit to fill the hearts and lives of true believers!

This immediately caused a stir among many devout men who were dwelling at Jerusalem. They were amazed and inquired, "What meaneth this?"

Peter replied, "This is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel."

As Peter preached, "they were pricked in their hearts and said, Men and brethren, what shall we do?"

Peter's answer contains the plain, simple, positive plan of salvation for our dispensation...

"Repent and be baptized, every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts 2:38-39)

In Romans, Paul declares, "But if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you." (Romans 8:11)

The Holy Ghost is actually "Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:27). Jesus said, "Except a man be born again of water and of the Spirit, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." (John 3:3). The Holy Ghost is that spiritual birth.

Jesus could come today! We need to examine our experience to make sure we are ready. We must have the Holy Ghost if we are to be caught up to meet Him in the air.

Repent... Be baptized in Jesus' Name... and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost!

Tribute to Bishop Kenneth D. Beckwith

Bishop Kenneth D. Beckwith

Bishop Kenneth D. Beckwith

July 21, 1931 ~ February 18, 2014

Ozark, Alabama

Loving Pastor, Husband, Father, and Friend

Giving honor to Bishop Beckwith, Pastor and Mentor of our beloved Pastor Ken Foreman. He often speaks of the impact this precious man of God made on his life and ministry from the very outset of his walk with God. When a life makes such a great impression on the life of another - it reaches past the here and now and extends on into eternity. Like ripples on a pond, spread, reaching from impact point to the farthest shores.

We here at New Life Apostolic, never had the privilege of meeting Bishop Beckwith in this life. Yet we have seen and experienced his influence in the care and diligence displayed by our Pastor day by day, week by week, month by month, and year by year. Thus, we look forward with joy to the day when we will meet him and get to thank him for giving of himself so freely and blessing us so richly.

"For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love,

which ye have shewed toward His Name,

in that ye have ministered unto the saints, and do minister.

And we do desire that every one of you

do shew the same diligence to the full assurance

of hope unto the end: that ye be not slothful,

but followers of them who through faith and patience

inherit the promises."

(Hebrews 6:10-12)