A Tribute to My Brother:
Bradley Phillip Heilhecker
Sterling Wisdom by Brad Heilhecker
Some of Brad’s blogs are published in a book called, “Sterling Wisdom” by Brad Heilhecker and is sold on Amazon.com.
All monies from the book sales go to RestoredMinistries.org, encouraging and equipping people to live in wholeness and freedom, mind, body, and soul. Thank you, Michelle Bollom, for making this possible.
Tribute to our brother, Bradley Phillip Heilhecker.
Born: Tuesday, January 15, 1959 -
Died: Tuesday, February 19, 2021 (62 years)
Bradley Phillip Heilhecker made his transition to Heaven on Friday, February 19, 2021, at the young age of 62.
We will always remember him as a sweet soul. We loved his genuine heart and loving spirit. Brad’s presence in our lives will be sorely missed. When you think of Brad, celebrate the good memories you have of him. Remember life is about relationships, especially the one with God. Brad would desire you to deepen your walk with God by reading and studying the Bible, memorizing it where possible, living life fully by following where the Holy Spirit leads you. We know he is in heaven, with all his questions answered, strumming his guitar to God’s Word. “He fought the good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Being a kind and humble follower of God was of the utmost importance to Brad, and he certainly did not disappoint when it came to teaching others about what he learned in the Bible. Brad spent the majority of his time sharing the word of God and teaching the people he met along the way. He loved to read the Bible, discuss what the Bible said, and watched Christian television as well as classic Westerns, WWII and Hallmark movies. At other times, he composed and played worship songs with his guitar and wrote weekly faith-based blogs, Brad's blogs. After he spent time with you, he would ask, “How might I pray for you over the next 30 days in 3 words?" And then faithfully add it to his prayer journal so he could bring your prayers and petitions before the Lord as he started each day.
Brad was the oldest son of the late Joe K. and Patricia Mack Heilhecker. He was born in Bryan, TX on Thursday, January 15, 1959 while his dad was attending Texas A&M University. Brad grew up in Bellaire, TX, attended Texas A&M University from 1978 to 1984 studying engineering, philosophy and psychology. Brad came to know the Lord while at A&M, and he began his faith walk at Grace Bible Church. With each passing year, he grew in his beliefs, and you could always find him with a Bible.
He served in the US Army from 1987 to 1990 as a chaplain’s assistant primarily in Germany. In 1990, he joined his sister in her practice as a valued individual tax services manager until his retirement in 2020.
Brad will forever be remembered as an honorable brother and fellow sojourner to his siblings, Katherine (Tom), Wesley, Bonnie (Stephen), Michael (Ashley), Kim (Chuck), his uncles, Michael, Wally, aunt, Linda, numerous cousins and a very large and beloved extended family full of brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews.
Brad will be remembered with love by his long-time friends, John, Greg, Michelle, Annie, Irma and the many others who journeyed life together with him. We wish to thank everyone who touched Brad’s life and may God bless you indeed. He lived kindheartedly because you made a difference in his life.
His friend wrote, “This book is a beautiful tribute to Brad, a strong witness to what he personally believed and also wanted others to believe. To my knowledge he never judged or condemned anyone for not believing, but just shared God's truth as he understood it with people. And he befriended and spoke to a lot of people during his life. So fabulous these truths are now in book form.”
Thank you, Brad, for being there for me.
Friend in Christ
wrote Christian worship songs
disciple of Christ
John Hendry recalls:
We will all miss his stories, and humor and his smile
Brad had such a sweet disposition. Always had time for your story, and a prayer.
Brad was good-hearted.


“Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?” (Matthew 9:5)
This sentence is full of the searching wisdom of Jesus, and may not be what it appears at first blush. Which IS easier, to say that a person’s sins are forgiven, or to make them rise and walk? There are a couple of layers of truth here:
The fact is, it is easier to “say” that a person’s sins are forgiven — who knows if they really are or not? — than to make someone rise and walk, which no human has the ability to do. But on the other hand, who really CAN say that people’s sins are forgiven? No mere human has the ability to do THAT, either. Mankind has rebelled against God in sin, and has separated themselves from His absolute holiness. And what can clean us from the guilt of this sin? NOTHING that we can say or do! “With men this is impossible!” The fact is, it is easier for us to make a paralyzed man rise and walk than it is for us to have our sins forgiven!
This is the lesson here. That Jesus can tell this man “Your sins are forgiven” is a miracle from God, only made possible because He did what NONE of us could ever do: perfect God became man, and died on the cross bearing the wrath of God for our sins. Yes, “with men it is impossible — but with God all things are possible” — including the forgiveness of our sins.
The takeaway for us here is that we need to make sure that we do not treat our sin — and the forgiveness of our sins — casually, as if it were no big deal. When we sin lightheartedly, and think, “Oh, God will just forgive me”, we betray our lighthearted attitude about sin. Our sins are grievous; they are rebellion against Holy God. They bring the penalty of death and eternal separation from His glory — and the fact is, there is only ONE ultimately costly, excruciatingly painful means of forgiving it; ONE: the death of Jesus on the cross for us.
Thus we must never take our sins lightly: either the committing of them, or the forgiveness of them. Jesus reminds here how weighty that whole matter is: it is easier to make a paralyzed man rise and walk, than it is to forgive sins! He deserves our most sincere worship and wholehearted service, that He did indeed provide that one, costly, “impossible for men” sacrifice that made it possible for Him to say to us: “Your sins are forgiven.”


Church of England Launches Alexa Skill to Reach the Masses
The Anglican Communion News Services reported that the Church of England has launched an Amazon Alexa skill to reach people with a message of Christian faith and provide information about the church. Rapid adoption of smart speakers has created a large new digital channel for reaching consumers and in turn Christian believers and others seeking information about the faith. The Alexa skill includes access to:
- Daily prayers, meal graces and the Lord’s Prayer
- Christian faith resources from Church House publishing and Pilgrim’s Way
- Information about churches near the Alexa skill user
The announcement indicates that it will also provide answers to common questions such as, “What is the Bible?” “Who is God?” and “What is a Christian?” Bishop Stephen Croft commented:
“More and more people are most comfortable operating in a digital and AI space, and therefore we as the Church need to be there, operating in that space, doing our best to translate the wonders of the Christian faith into language that is accessible and meaningful.”
A Mainstream Channel to Reach People
Consumer brands and media companies have already discovered that smart speakers represent a new mass market communication channel that reaches people in their homes. Strategy Analytics data show that nearly four million smart speakers were sold in the U.K. in 2017 and OC&C Strategy reported household penetration reached 10% in the country. That number is expected to rise to 48% in 2022.
Given the current smart speaker presence and growth rate, it is not surprising that churches and other faith-based organizations are looking to take advantage of the new digital channel. In the U.S., dozens of Christian radio stations and a few churches have launched Alexa skills. An Amazon search in the Alexa skill store for the term “Christian,” produces 318 skill results in the U.S. and 151 in the U.K. The Church of England doesn’t plan to stop with Alexa and indicated it would move to support Google Home and Apple HomePod in the future.


The Grateful Dead sang a song called "Samson and Delilah," then the Pointer Sisters had a song called "Fire" where they put Samson and Delilah in the same league as Romeo and Juliet, having a love they could not deny. Yep, the Biblical couple has been enshrined as an example of a "love" story. But what was their love like?
To see this love story you have to go to the book of Judges (hee hee!). I recently did a Valentines banquet and got quite a look when I said, "Let's turn to the book of Judges." Well, its a fun story. Basically, we first learn about Samson's kind of love in chapter 14:1 when he "sees" a Philistine woman and tells his parents to go and get her for him. He makes three critical errors in my opinion. First, he spurns his parents counsel. Second, he chooses a wife that will be incompatible spritually. And third, he makes his decision based purely on physical attraction. He says, "She looks good to me" (v. 3).
Let's see how that worked out. Well, He makes his inlaws mad by gambling with them over a riddle. His wife tries to get the answer from him by manipulation through saying he hates her (16a). He puts his parents above his wife (16b) saying, "I haven't even told my parents why would I tell you?" She then manipulates him with tears, crying for seven days (17), which he gives in to. She betrays him to her people (18a). He calls her a heifer (18b).
Samson then demonstrates that he has an anger problem by killing 30 men and taking their clothes to pay off his bet (19); he ties torches to the tails of 300 foxes that burn up the grain fields and olive orchards (15:4-5). The Philistines retaliate by burning his wife and father-in-law, so he eventually kills 1000 with a donkey's jawbone.
Well let's see if his next relationship is any better. Judges 16:1 says that he saw a prostitute and went in to her. Okay, physical based and immoral.
Finally, we get to Delilah. It actually says that Samson "loved" her (16:4). But what does that mean? Let's see. Chapter 16 tells the tale of Delilah being bribed by the Philistines to find out the secret of Samson's strength so that they might know how to bind him to afflict him. Then there is this humorous cycle where she asks him, he tells her a lie, she tries what he tells her, the Philistines lie in wait to ambush him, whatever she tries fails, and he breaks the bonds. As you read the story you can just imagine the Philistines hiding in their house and seeing him awake breaking his bonds and them scurrying out the door.
So up to now we have relationships based on deceit, poor communication, favoring parents over spouse, immorality, majoring on the physical, name-calling, anger, manipulation, bribery--almost everything I've faced in marriage counseling. But I also see that every one of these areas could easily be a temptation for me. I'll explore that later.


I WILL get caught up, however.. and it starts today!
Have you ever had a dream about a church? Whether it’s your own church, a church you attended as a child, or simply a church you’ve seen – church dreams have a specific interpretation all of their own.
It’s first important to think about things we associate with churches:
A church is a symbol of God and is, therefore, one of the most holy and sacred symbols we have. Other religious symbols include…
- the Cross
- the Holy Bible
- John 3:16
- Preachers, Priests, Nuns…
While each of these religious symbols (in life and in dreams) can point to God, Jesus, our faith, hope, beliefs, eternity, Spirituality, and Christianity – a church takes it one step further.
Dreaming of a church has more to do with how we FEEL than anything else. Churches conjure up feelings of comfort, peace, contentment, and most of all SAFETY.
To dream of a church indicates either a feeling of safety and peace or a longing for safety and peace. To differentiate between the two in your own personal dream interpretation, you have to look at the rest of the dream
Was the dream peaceful and, upon wakening, did you feel peaceful, safe, and content? Most of the time, this indicates that you feel safe in your day to day life.
If the dream was chaotic, troublesome, and confrontational, and you awoke with negative feelings – it indicates that you are searching for peace and safety.
As with all dreams, nothing is set in stone and other dream symbols could affect your own personal interpretation. This is just a general interpretation for church dreams and the symbolism for churches in dreams.
As always, sweet dreams!


Pittsburgh churches take on challenge of feeding region's hungryRead the Post-Gazette Article here
*** Previous Television Commercials and Videos ***
HIS food ministry
The most powerful non-threatening evangelistic tool the modern day church has ever seen.
We are committed in the name of Jesus to 'providing support to local churches and their communities through word and deed with Honesty, Integrity and Superior Service'.
H Honesty, helping Ministries share the love of Jesus Christ through their communities. We stand and serve on Matthew 28:18-20; "...go therefore and make disciples...". The goal of our evangelistic outreach is to assist you in building your ministry.
I Integrity - We commit to serve and support YOU. Colossians 3:17; whatever we do in word or deed; do all in the name of the lord Jesus Christ. We commit to serve and support with integrity and truth in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
S Superior service Philippians 4:13; I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. We at HIS food ministry have a commitment to excellence and will do everything in our power to serve, support, and provide the best service to you that we possibly can.
James 1:22-25; "Let us be effectual doers of God’s Word and not just hearers only..."
New - Two different regional menus
Released May 11, 2012:
First of all, we want to thank you for your support. In order for us to provide the proper and best service for you that we can, we have created two different menus; each designed to service your particular state.
NOTE: Please make sure you are ordering from the correct menu.
Menu A will service these states - WV, NC, GA, SC, and VA.
Menu B (MD, DE, OH, PA, Eastern WV panhandle and Northern parts of VA.)
YOU MUST CONFIRM WITH YOUR LOCAL OUTREACH CENTER that you are ordering from the correct menu.
HFM IS 501-C3 NON PR OFIT
WE NEED YOU FINANCIAL HELP TO CONTINUE, THANK YOU
* YOU TUBE SEARCH/ RONALD KOSOR
* watch us on television at / Crossingpaths.org
YOU TUBE SEARCH HAS ALL RONALD KOSOR SERMONS
*NN2. 2. New Season HFM
3. Distribution - Communities
4. Supporting Families
5. Bike Blessing #1
6. Bike Blessing #2
Join Us Today!
Why HIS food ministry?
- Evangelistic outreach
- Support local ministries
- Up to $1.00 benevolence cash/food for local church
- Serving communities
- Developing relationships
- Strengthen family
- Quality food
- Reasonable pricing
- Professional packing
- Name brands
- Supplement your groceries
- Cooking instructions
- Newer trucks
- Great Value
- Superior service
- Sharing the Gospel
- Consistent and convenient
- M-Sat drops- distributions
- Customized distributions
- Professional drivers
- On time deliveries
- A commitment to excellence


Amid news of Time Warner possibly selling off most of its print magazines, Nancy Gibbs, deputy managing editor of Time magazine, told the Shorenstein Center that she is “enormously optimistic” about the future the journalism industry as a whole.Gibbs began by looking back at Time‘s history, with its founders inventing “curation and aggregation” of the news. But “Time was never just about the news,” she said, “the richness and depth of reporting was extraordinary.” Yet throughout its years of many permutations, there have been multiple stories written about how Time would not be able to survive, as the arrival of cable news, the Internet, and the 24-hour news cycle seemed to threaten its existence. “I’m not a sentimentalist about print,” Gibbs stated, “I am an extreme disciple of storytelling,” and Time‘s ability to gather information “about things that matter” and to put those stories “into sharable form” has kept it relevant.“I don’t particularly think people care what we think – I think they care what we can find out,” Gibbs stated, and Alex Jones, Shorenstein Center director, challenged her statement by arguing, “I subscribe to that; I’m not so sure that’s the premise upon which these institutions are moving forward, though.” Gibbs responded that “anyone can have an opinion, those are cheap.…Finding things out is an expensive operation.” An opinion is an “easier project to manufacture,” but quality information gathering is something only a respected institution can do with trained professionals, she said. Read Full Story
Penny Marie Hipskind – wife, mom, friend, and Nana-extraordinaire – passed away on February 21, 2020, with the love of her life, her husband of 40 years and high school sweetheart, Keith, by her side.Throughout her battle with cancer, but especially in her final days, her home was filled with great food, raucous conversation, and reverent prayer. Each was a testament, as were the family and friends who brought them, to the way Penny lived her life: in service to others, with great joy for the Lord, and with a glass of wine in her hand and a story about her grandchildren to share.Penny was born July 8, 1956, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Jay and June Calloway, and raised in Wabash, Indiana. She was always a woman of great faith. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greensburg for the past 23 years, and a proud member of a women’s bible study that has met regularly for over ten years. But Penny did far more than go to church; she was the church. She and Keith dedicated their lives throughout their time in Wabash, Indianapolis, Washington, D.C., northern Indiana, and Greensburg to loving, feeding, and clothing their neighbors. She was present to people always, but especially in their time of need.Penny first cultivated her servant’s heart as an elementary school teacher, earning her B.S. from Ball State in 1980. But her greatest act of love was in serving her husband, her children, and their big extended families. She was the ultimate coach’s wife, welcoming countless young men into her home and showing them through thousands of spaghetti dinners that they would live in her heart forever. She did so because she loved each of them and because she was her husband’s biggest fan.In addition to Keith, her great passions were her three kids – Kelly, Kate, and Kara – their loving spouses – Carla, Hector, and Matt – and her adoring grandkids – Mica, Callie, Cici, Naomi, Birdie, Agnes, Mae, Zeke, Gus, and Xabi. She often said, I may not have lived perfectly but I have lived passionately. And, oh, did she live. Despite cancer, she remained an eternal optimist, an avid adventurer, a stellar party planner, and, most of all, a dedicated Nana who dried every tear.Penny is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jay and June, and mother-in-law Joyce, her brother, J.R., and Kara’s beautiful little ones, Dominic and Miriam. She is survived by Keith, her children and grandchildren, and Keith’s siblings – Laura, Julie and Rick, Kathy and Bill, Steve and Kathy, and Phil – and her father-in-law Tom and his wife Marilyn. She will also be celebrated in death, as she was in life, by her beloved nieces and nephews.Penny did not know a stranger. This proved problematic at times when trying to go out to eat or getting her out of church on Sundays. But in the end you truly reap what you sow. She lived a life of service, and those she loved and cared for over the years returned to sit by her side. She and her family remain forever grateful. And although we will miss this exuberant woman with energy for days, we know she is now dancing in heaven to her favorite song, “Boogie Shoes,” and offering the Lord a bit of advice on the best appetizers and way to set the table.Family and friends will gather at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church to pray the rosary. Visitation will follow until 8:00 p.m. at the church in Greensburg. The family will also receive friends from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Friday at the church. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday with Rev. John Meyer officiating.Interment will be held in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Greensburg.Memorials may be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic Church.


|Ebenezer United Methodist Church, Auburn, NJ
In 1790, a log church was built near Sculltown, (Auburn) in Gloucester County, on the
Oldmans Creek Road. (A cemetery now marks the spot where the first church stood) Until
1825, when the Friendship School was built, this church served as the seat of learning.
On September 3, 1840, the New Ebenezer Meeting House was officially incorporated. The
name it is believed, was chosen because of its meaning -" Stone of Help".
In 1864 ground was purchased for $84 where the former Mary B. Farley School stood.
This was also the time that Sculltown became Auburn. The pastor of the original Sculltown
Circuit (1850-57) was Bromwell Andrews with John Hiesler as assistant. In December of
1865 a committee of trustees met to oversee purchasing a lot for the church in the village
of Auburn. Some members of the committee thought the price was high so they decided
not to purchase the property at that time.
In 1899 the trustees decided to buy the lot for $100.00. Approximately one year later the
old church structure was placed on logs and moved to where it stands today. In 1912 a
social hall was built at the rear of the church. In 1960 the social hall was connected to the
church and was made into Sunday school rooms. The basement was converted to serve
as a social hall and the sanctuary was remodeled. The burning of the mortgage was held
on October16, 1966.
In 1991 the church celebrated 200 Years of Methodism in Auburn with a special service
visited by former pastors, along with District Superintendent Harlan Baxter. In 1993, after
months of planning, the social hall underwent extensive renovations. In 2007 accessible
entry was completed and central air conditioning was installed.


What is Baptism in The Holy Spirit? Indwelling Vs Infilling.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a hotly discussed topic amongst Christians. Why did the Holy Spirit have to come upon Jesus when He was baptised if He was already born by the power of the Holy Spirit? Is it possible for us Christians to have two distinct encounters with the Holy Spirit as well?
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a separate experience from receiving the Holy Spirit at our conversion.
The First Receiving of The Holy Spirit : Indwelling
The Holy Spirit comes and lives inside us when we first repent of our sins and embrace Christ as our saviour. This initial receiving of the Holy Spirit is called the Spirit’s ‘indwelling’.The Holy Spirit dwells within us and we become His living temple.
Scripture and testimonies show that, in addition to the ‘indwelling’ of the Holy Spirit that occurs at a believer’s conversion, there is another distinct encounter known as the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Also referred to as the ‘infilling of the Holy Spirit’.
This infilling helps us experience the Holy Spirit to a greater degree than the indwelling. Hence, it is to be earnestly desired. This infilling/baptism in the Holy Spirit is a beautiful experience in which you can feel the Holy Spirit’s power operating within you. Certain manifestations, such as speaking in tongues, are also observed.
Let’s first begin by correctly understanding the indwelling of the Holy Spirit so we can distinguish it from the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
1.The Holy Spirit indwells us when we first place our faith in Jesus as our Lord. This indwelling occurs immediately when we accept Christ, not after a few years of doing ‘good works’ as Christians.
2.The indwelling of the Holy Spirit happens only once in the life of a believer, at the time of our conversion.
3.The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is God’s gift to every believer. Other than accepting Christ, there’s nothing we can do to earn it. It is freely given.
The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit Verses.
Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?
Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said,
“I will dwell in them and walk among them;
And I will be their God, and they shall be My people.
2 Corinthians 6:16
I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances.
But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.
For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!”
What is Baptism in the Holy Spirit?
Baptism in the Holy Spirit means being filled with God’s Spirit, which not only transforms a Christian’s character but also empowers us with spiritual gifts.
This baptism or infilling is received through faith and prayer and is sometimes received by the laying on of hands. Only those born again and indwelt by the Spirit can receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit – Why We Should Earnestly Desire it?
1. Jesus Himself Needed the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.
As Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, He had the Spirit dwelling within Him all His life. But having humbled Himself and taking on the limitations of humanity, even Jesus needed the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Only after being empowered with this infilling did Jesus perform miracles and endure extreme trials.
When did Jesus Receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?
Jesus received water baptism from John the Baptist when he was about thirty years old. When Jesus emerged from the water, the Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove, filling Him with power (Matthew 3:16).
From that time on, Jesus was led by the Spirit and walked in the power of the Holy Spirit. He cast out evil spirits, healed sick people, overcame temptation, raised the dead, and ultimately, bore our sins on the cross.
The same Spirit who empowered and raised Jesus from the dead dwells within every born-again believer. Scripture commands us to not just be indwelt but also to be infilled with the Holy Spirit.
Why would anyone reject the almighty God’s Spirit when it is freely given to every believer who asks?
2. Infilling of Holy Spirit at Pentecost Empowered the Apostles.
On the day of Pentecost, about 10 days after Christ ascended into heaven, His followers were all gathered together in a place when a sound like the blowing of a mighty wind came from heaven and filled the room where they were staying. What appeared to be like tongues of fire sat on each of them, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them utterance.(Acts 2:1-4)
When this happened, a crowd gathered to investigate the noise. When they did, they heard Christ’s followers speaking in the native languages of the listeners. This was a supernatural event because the disciples of Christ suddenly spoke in languages they had not formally known or studied before.
This surprised the crowd, but Peter explained to them that when the Holy Spirit came upon them, they were transformed and what they were experiencing was the outpouring of God’s promised Spirit on His people as prophesied in Joel 2:28-32
In Luke 24:49 Jesus told His disciples they’d receive power from high. The power He spoke of here isn’t the Holy Spirit coming into the disciples’ when they got saved. The disciples had already received the indwelling of the Holy Spirit when they saw the risen Christ and He breathed His Spirit on them( John 20:19-22). Instead, Jesus told His disciples that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit would empower them to fulfill God’s divine mission (Matthew 28:19-20).
3. Second Infilling of the Holy Spirit in Acts.
Although the disciples were filled at Pentecost, it wasn’t the only time they received the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
The disciples who had received the infilling of the Holy Spirit in Acts chapter 2 received a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit again in chapter 4 when they prayed to the Lord. They needed to be filled on several occasions to carry out different assignments and lead a Christ exalting ministry.
From this, we know that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a repeated experience and we must regularly ask for a fresh infilling.
Are There Any Conditions to Receive the Baptism in The Holy Spirit?
The truth is that no amount of our ‘good works’ can earn us the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The baptism of the Holy Spirit is not meant only for goody-goody Christians. If this gift was bestowed only on perfect individuals, none of us would ever be filled with the Holy Spirit.
We receive this infilling not because of anything we do, but as a result of Christ’s finished work on the cross and resurrection, which enabled the coming of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit was outpoured as a result of what Christ did, not because of anything we did.
Is Baptism in The Holy Spirit Essential For Salvation?
Receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit has never been a condition for salvation. Our salvation is through grace alone, and every born-again believer receives the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus Christ assured the repentant thief on the cross next to Him a place in paradise if he just believed in Him. Jesus didn’t give the thief a list of conditions for him to earn his salvation.
Although the baptism in the Holy Spirit is not a condition for salvation, the Bible commands us to “be filled with the Spirit”. Being filled with the Holy Spirit is an experience that God desires for each of His children to have on a regular basis. Unlike the indwelling, the infilling is not a one-time event. There are many infillings of the Holy Spirit and God wants you to ask and be filled often.
Can We Lose The Holy Spirit?
This is where a lot of believers are often confused. Some say it is possible to grieve the Holy Spirit with our sins causing Him to leave us while others say that the Holy Spirit permanently dwells within the believer and never forsakes him.
In order to get a clear understanding of this it is essential to distinguish how the Holy Spirit works in the indwelling and the infilling.
The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a work of permanent residency within the believer. You can never lose the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
And I will pray to the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever;
Did you notice how the above verse clearly states that the Holy Spirit will dwell within us forever? There is no list of conditions mentioned here for us to fulfill to make the Holy Spirit abide in us. The Bible assures us that we have been sealed with the Holy Spirit and that He will never abandon us. God’s promises are not fickle.
What About the Old Testament Verses Which Speak of the Holy Spirit Departing?
In the Old Testament, there are occurrences where the Holy Spirit selectively anointed certain people for carrying out specific tasks and also departed from them.
But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and a distressing spirit from the LORD troubled him.
I Samuel 16:14 NKJV
People who do not believe that the Holy Spirit permanently dwells within the believer often use verses like the one above to prove that the Holy Spirit can leave a person.
In the Old Testament, God did not dwell in His people, but He did dwell amidst them like at Mount Sinai and the tabernacle. Also, the OT instances of the Holy Spirit leaving people like in the cases of Saul, Samson, and David were special anointings from God for His chosen leaders to carry out certain tasks. Therefore, what left them, and what David prayed to retain was not the indwelling of the Holy Spirit but rather the Holy Spirit’s anointing to rule in a godly manner.
Remember in the New Testament, Peter denied Christ three times despite which on the day of Pentecost, he was filled with the Holy Spirit, preached to a crowd from different parts of the world, and drew 3,000 souls to Christ. It is beautiful how the Holy Spirit graciously worked through a man who denied Christ by cursing and swearing, despite which the Holy Spirit never left Peter!
We will never lose the indwelling of the Holy Spirit but we can quench the infilling of the Holy Spirit which is given for specific purposes to each believer. Being filled with the Holy Spirit is an ongoing work — and can be quenched.
What this means is that we can limit the Spirit’s infilling by resisting His will and stifling His guidance and gifts constantly. Such rejection hampers His work in us, since a basic quality of being filled with the Holy Spirit is yielding to Him. A backslidden believer can, however, always repent and ask for a fresh infilling since it’s a repeated experience.
Jesus Himself said, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me” (John 7:37).
Ask Jesus to make you thirsty by increasing your desire for more of the Holy Spirit.
How to Live the Spirit-Filled Life?
Most people have reduced Christianity to a legalistic way of life like other world religions.
But true Christianity is not a list of rules with do’s and don’ts to be a good person. Christianity is not a religion based on self-efforts but a loving relationship where God Himself comes and lives within us. We accomplish much by walking in His Spirit instead of focusing on a list of laws that trigger the flesh. Humans weren’t created to strive alone. We were created to live the Christian life, empowered by Christ’s Spirit.
God’s Spirit equips us to do things we cannot do with our own strength. God wants us to live our lives being filled with His spirit.
When Paul said “Don’t be drunk with wine but be filled with the Spirit”, he meant we must come under the control of the Spirit as a drunk comes under the control of the spirits.
In that sense, a person who knew you before you started living a Spirit-filled life would think you are drunk not because you lack self-control, but because you look and act so differently from your old ways. Again this transformation is not because of self-efforts but a result of submitting to Christ’s Spirit and letting Him work through you.
Notice in Ezekiel 36:27 God says,
“I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances.”
God fills us with His Spirit to help us do His will. Some people think once we are saved, it is our own responsibility to lead good Christian lives. But this is again not depending on God’s grace but going back to works of the flesh. Depend on Christ, not your flesh. Your flesh will fail you, Christ never will. Trust in His Spirit to strengthen and equip you in your Christian walk.


Many books have been written on how to come to belief in Christ. Many books have been written by the larger society to help people help themselves – how to live a better life. But there are not many books on how to live the faith to live a better life once life has come to belief in Christ. N.T. Wright seeks to provide some helpful thoughts in this space through his book, After You Believe, Why Christian Character Matters.
Continuing the theme that he has started in his first two books of this loosely-coupled series (Simply Christian and Surprised by Hope), Wright argues that the biblical vision of salvation is not that of our disembodied souls floating off to heaven to play golden harps on lilly-white clouds, away from space and time. Wright calls us to the recall and reclaim the apocalyptic visions of Daniel and Isaiah and Revelation: God will create a new heavens and new earth and the dead shall be raised for either life in Christ or condemnation. In the meantime, God’s Kingdom on earth is established in the here and now as it is heaven by the hard work of those who believe in Him. As Wright has summed the thought in years past through his pithy refrain: “Heaven is important, but it’s not the end of the world”.
Wright draws on the story of Captain Chelsey Sullenberger (“Sully”), the miraculous landing of the US Airways flight on the Hudson River, to show how important character is for being truly excellent at any craft.
Now, as I say, many people described the dramatic events as a “miracle.” At one level, I wouldn’t want to question that. But the really fascinating thing about the whole business is the way it spectacularly illustrates a vital truth — a truth which many today have either forgotten or never knew in the first place.
You could call it the power of right habits. You might say it was the result of many years of training and experience. You could call it “character,”as we have done so far in this book.
Ancient writers had a word for it: virtue.
To become truly excellent at any skill like a sport or a language takes countless hours of practice and dedication and attention to detail (some experts have said 10,000 hours of focus on one thing makes the practitioner “an expert”). It entails the daily denial of some liberties and passions to free one’s time to “put into” the chosen activity. One cannot go on an extended vacation with her family, perhaps, if she needs to train for a marathon. Or a young man working to “make it” in the field of music cannot be out partying with his friends and still be practicing his instruments or vocals. Greatness comes at a cost. Freedom must be sacrificed, so greater freedom (soaring? excellence?) can be achieved in the chosen sphere. Captain Sullenberger saved the lives of those on Flight 1549 because of his countless hours of practice and study in the art and skill of flying. He had so dedicated himself, so mastered the craft, that by the time the “Miracle on the Hudson” incident occurred, flying his airliner was second nature. It was just what he did. It was who he was. They were his right habits of heart.
Wright goes on to ask: if this is true of things in this world, how much more so will it be true of things in the next? And for our modern-day society which is so used to the “get what I want now” mentality (most of the time with costs that amount to “kicking the can down the road” – crippling debt or substandard quality of construction – think of the shortcuts made in building houses these days), this could turn out to be a shocking message.
So for the Christian, Wright lays it out: the job of our life here on earth after we believe is to build the features of character and right habits that prepare us to live in the new heavens and earth as children of God, as more than kings and conquerors. What must we do to develop a “deep, wise, and trustworthy character” (p. 11) to enable us who are clothed in Christ to move and act and breathe in the age to come (translated as “eternal life” in many modern Bible translations) as second nature — as our first nature in God. Wright argues that this sort of character can only be built up through a life-time of what ancient philosophers once knew as “virtue”: “courage, restraint, cool judgment, and determination to do the right thing for others.” (p. 21) Of course, the New Testament lays claim to these pagan virtues and quickens them with Christian spirit. The New Testament seeks to impart those practices of mind and heart that will enable us to be truly human, as we were created to be.
Scott McNight has an excellent review of this book, in which he nicely packages the thesis of Wright’s book much more succinctly than I ever could:
Aristotle pondered how we get from where we are to the telos, the goal of the philosopher and citizen, which is “flourishing” (eudaimonia). We develop “character.” The way to get there is through the habitual practice of virtues (arete)—courage, justice, prudence, temperance—so that they become “second nature.” Wright finds the same pattern, though with entirely different substance, at work in Jesus and Paul. In so finding a virtue ethic at work in the New Testament, Wright stands against other ethical theories at work in the academy. At the same time, he insists that Christians have to wake up from the idea that we play no part in our moral transformation or that somehow in God’s mystery we just become more holy or loving or virtuous; we are to avoid as well the idea that keeping “rules” will somehow get us to the goal. The romantic, the existentialist, and the emotivist movements don’t line up with either classical ethics or the ethics of the New Testament, both of which focus more on our complex effort. A recurring theme in this book is that God’s grace animates us but we must cooperate and strive to put on these virtues. All along, Tom is both using Aristotle and turning him on his head and inside out.
If the goal (telos) of ancient pagan virtue was Aristotle’s flourishing (eudaimonia) and this was achieved through the development of character, then the goal of the Christian virtue is blessedness, as stated principles and expectations for the age to come in the Beatitudes, “in the Hebrew sense of ashre or baruch (p. 103).
1. The goal is God’s kingdom: a time of comfort, of heaven coming to earth at last, of the renewal of creation, of plenty, of mercy, of reward, and perhaps above all of seeing God himself.
2. This goal has arrived in the present, now that Jesus is here. How his public career will work out is, from the perspective of those listening to the Sermon on the Mount, not yet clear.
3. Those who follow Jesus can begin to practice, in the present, the habits of heart and life which correspond to the way things are in God’s kingdom — the way they will be eventually, yes, but also the way they already are because Jesus is here. (p. 105)
With the goal of blessedness in mind – what we are called to be now because God has already ushered in the final reality through the death, resurrection and ascension of His Son – Wright finds three virtues called out in the New Testament, which are so because of the permanence found in love, hope and faith, with the greatest of all being love (1 Cor 13). It might be obvious how love is permanent, as it is in the final analysis what God is, but what about faith and hope are permanent? Wright calls in the old nineteenth-century hymn “Gracious Spirit, Holy Ghost,” by Bishop Christopher Wordsworth, to restate the question:
Faith will vanish into sight;
Hope be emptied in delight;
Love in heaven will shine more bright;
Therefore give us love.(p. 203)
But Wordsworth, as an expositor of the New Testament, knew that 1 Corinthians 13 “insists, as we have seen, that these three abide. They will last into the future world. Faith and hope will not vanish or be emptied. Why not?” (p. 203)
Faith is the settled, unwavering trust in the one true God whom we have come to know in Jesus Christ. When we see him face to face we shall not abandon that trust, but deepen it. Hope is the settled, unwavering confidence that this God will not leave us or forsake us, but will always have more in store for us than we could ask or think….
To speak of “virtue” is indeed to say that we are concerned with moral growth, he habits of the heart, of every single individual. But to insist that the three primary virtues are faith, hope, and above all love is to insist that to grow in these virtues is precisely to grow in looking away from oneself and toward God on the one hand and one’s neighbor on the other. The more you cultivate these values, the less you think about yourself at all.
Ever practical, Wright spends Chapters 8 and 9 to set forth “the Virtuous Circle,” where he lays out very concrete things we can do now to start developing the habits of mind and heart, the character of a child of God, in the here and now. These are practical actions that not only build our own discipline but also the communal aspects of the church: worship, eucharist,
baptism, prayer, giving, and public Scripture reading. Again, McNight superbly highlights the contribution Wight makes here:
Here Wright manages to tie into the spiritual formation movement in the United States in a way that may surprise Tom but will also surely surprise the likes of Richard Foster and Dallas Willard. His virtuous circle, instead of being the classical spiritual disciplines (fasting, solitude, contemplation, etc), which tend toward the individualistic, includes Scripture reading, stories, examples, community, and then practices. But even the “practices” shift from the dominating paradigm in the United States, forged by a Quaker and a Baptist, neither of whom is as Eucharistic as an erstwhile Anglican Bishop.
Beyond the broad themes of this vitally important book, there are some great one liners in this book:
“The English word ‘love’ is trying to do so many different jobs at the same time that someone really ought to sit down with it and teach it how to delegate.” (183)
“To accept appropriate moral constraints is not to curtail true freedom, but to create the conditions for it to flourish.” (234)
“The church is often called a killjoy for protesting against sexual license. But the real killing of joy comes with the grabbing of pleasure.” (253)


The parables hold the secrets of the kingdom of heaven. When reading the parables, remember to put in the double meaning regarding heaven.
God gives us peace when we have faith in Him and give Him our problems. We have no need to worry about anything.
God's has made us out of the clay of the earth in His own image. He is the Potter, Molder, Creator, and our Redeemer.
It is fun praising God for all He does for us. There are many praise texts in the Bible.
When praying give thanks to God for all He has done for you. When asking for something don't be unreasonable. Listen, God will answer.
Everything was planned ahead. We have choices to make but those choices ultimately bring us to the same goal for God's purpose.
The Bible gives us so many wonderful promises. God will take care of us when we are depressed or having a bad time. He delivers us and that is a delight to Him.
God is the revealer of secrets. He is in control. The events in the Bible fulfill the prophecies. It is a prophetic time measurement.
Prophets - False
This describes how to know false prophets. God says these prophets will meet their doom. They are evil.


Dear Salesian Families,
Thank you to the wonderful group of parents who took their children out to join the Fourth of July Watsonville parade! Everyone I asked said it was such a great experience for them and their children. This is what we are all about, showing our Salesian pride around the greater community. Thank you to Christina Pasillas who took the time to organize the details of such a fun family event
There was so much enthusiasm as we Sisters finished our annual Spiritual Retreat here on our campus. This was the first time in many years that our Provincial, Sr. Rosann took the initiative to bring back a great tradition of hosting one of our annual retreats up here in Corralitos. As soon as the retreat was over, we had a hard-working group of parents helping to turn Salesian into our beautiful summer ministry of Camp Auxilium. Thank you to Mr. Jose Rocha, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Gonzalez and Mrs. Paula Jimenez and Mrs. Randa Hadayia. They all were so committed and enthusiastic in helping us prepare for our campers to come. Thank you for sharing your Salesian pride!
What a joy to see so many people around taking their time and energy to create this beautiful spirit of a true Salesian! This is Don Bosco’s legacy for us to use our God given-talents to reach out and serve others as he did during his lifetime.
Sr. Carmen Botello, FMA


Rhonda Clouse is proud to have served on the Durant Area Chamber of Commerce for several years. She greatly enjoys her career of 25 years at KLBC/KSEO Radio and Texoma Broadcasting, offering advertising to the businesses of Bryan County. Rhonda has one son, Jason, daughter in law, Lindsay and a precious 2 year old granddaughter, Jaycee. Rhonda is a faithful at Fairview Baptist, where she actively serves the Lord . She enjoys teaching Sunday School and is a participant in the Master's Heart Ministry Program. Rhonda also serves on the Durant Main Street Board.


Caitlin’s Vine of Bravery is God’s healing agent used to bridge the gap between rescuing hurting animals and providing emotional therapy for children undergoing traumatic life changing experiences.
Our mission, to empower others to find, accept, and love themselves. To help others realize they are more than their circumstances, addiction, mental illness, trauma and past. To bring hope that they can heal from whatever is haunting them and live a life worth living. A life of knowing and loving themselves as God sees them and has created them.


Today I was scrolling through my blogroll when I came across one of my favorite blogs: pendrops. I’ve never been a poet or a writer- I feel pretty inadequate most of the time actually, but I admire others for their gift and often collect their thoughts and words when they speak to where I am at the time. I’ll self-disclose a little and tell you that the last few years over here have been tough on me, my relationship with God and what I used to think that meant, even my marriage at times. I feel out of touch with the Body and my place in it. It has been so long since I have been able to enjoy fellowship and worship with believers I actually grieve for it at times. I can tell that I have become harder even cautious, and I ‘m not sure yet what that means. I know that I still have the hunger and the desire to learn and understand truth, but I wonder if I’ll be able to open my soul in truth and humility and allow others to see what’s really there. In the past, it’s only left me wounded. For now, I’ll keep on collecting poems like the one below and other people’s words making them my prayer, as long as God continues to bless others with the words I don’t have. It seems that when I do, God reveals a new truth about Him, my life and what living and loving is really all about.
O persistent God,
deliver me from assuming your mercy is gentle.
Pressure me that I may grow more human,
not through the lessening of my struggles,
but through an expansion of them…
Deepen my hurt
until I learn to share it and myself openly,
and my needs honestly.
Sharpen my fears until I name them
and release the power I have locked in them
and they in me.
Accentuate my confusion
until I shed those grandiose expectations
that divert me from the small, glad gifts
of the now and the here and the me.
Expose my shame where it shivers,
crouched behind the curtains of propriety,
until I can laugh at last
through my common frailties and failures,
laugh my way toward becoming whole.
~Ted Loder, Guerrillas of Grace


Tue, Aug 04
Aug 04, 7:00 AM – Aug 07, 12:00 PM
Sky Camp, 83930 Peninsula Rd, Fall Creek, OR 97438, USA
"Immerse yourself in the glorious light of the restoration!" Aaronic Priesthood Experience is all about friends, amazing food, an awesome camp, and strengthening testimonies of the gospel. This year we'll be focusing on the restoration.


I cried into a very expensive pillow today.
It wasn’t exactly how my day began. I ran myself ragged, getting up early, to serve others as is always expected of me. I can only blame myself as I have set these expectations.
But my feelings were hurt. I cried, but not for too long. I drew up my strength, and for some reason that made no sense to me I got ready for church.
I gripped my hands tightly together to keep from shaking as I walked in. It didn’t help much. I didn’t want to be there. I really like my church for the most part too. It’s a collection of broken people trying in their brokenness to help other broken people. It’s not perfect. You come across some ministry clichés. It’s not for everyone; fortunately it is for Jesus.
I barely stayed standing the first three worship songs. I’ve learned after years of fighting it that some days my worship is my tears and not my slightly off-key voice. A couple came and sat down next to me, and when the husband tapped my shoulder and asked if the seat was taken I jumped, terrified by an innocent human touch.
I began planning my escape. As I scanned the worship center, looking for a door I knew wouldn’t result in me running into too many people, I saw a beautiful blond angel and I suddenly felt the strength to stay. I rushed to her for a hug and was thrilled she was willing to sit with me.
Her story isn’t mine to share, and I don’t know enough details to do it justice anyway. But what she has shared with me makes her raised arms to Jesus when life pushes her so low simply amazing to me. And as she held my hand when we cried my arms stopped shaking. My breathing slowed to a safe pace and I could hear the words of worship and find words for prayers and remember Whose house I was in.
My sweet friend has no idea she was my angel today. She didn’t even make any effort to save my morning- she was just there at the right time and willing to love.
And I was calm enough to appreciate the seriousness when the sound at the church malfunctioned. Things didn’t just stop. Things continued. Worship didn’t end because the guitars and keyboards stopped making noise- the musicians raised hands and finished the song, and only the removal of the ‘in-ears’ and the rushing to the stage of the most dedicated and amazing sound ‘guy’ imaginable.
The microphone worked off an on throughout the sermon. And our pastor led with jokes and grace. His message was powerful, but what stuck out to me was the continuance and perseverance.
This isn’t to praise the pastor, though he did handle it well. I was dearly encouraged to see that even as every obstacle was throwing a wrench in our plans to honor Him, we were able to worship Him regardless, and grow in His word without whistles and bells.
It was just us, Jesus, and a pastor blessed with a loud voice.
I’m thankful today God sent me an angel rather than allowing me to run away from my fears and unnecessary anxieties. I’m thankful for strength in others that encourages me to be strong, too, even in adverse circumstances. Most of all, I’m thankful for Jesus.


Psychologist Launi Treece, Ph.D. describes the unique challenges and blessings of being a Christian and a highly sensitive person. Based upon the work by Elaine Aron, Ph.D. and book: The Highly Sensitive Person, this book provides new insights into how to cope with sensitivity from the Christian perspective, and how to use the strengths of sensitivity to serve God and live life to the fullest. Highly sensitive people tend to struggle with anxiety, depression and physiological concerns. They may also find social situations such as work and church to be challenging. Dr. Treece provides insight, research and suggestions for how to cope, adapt and thrive in these areas.


Here’s what’s coming up in the life of Horizon Church!
Groups Launch Sunday
September 29 | It’s Groups Launch Sunday! If you’re looking to get plugged in at Horizon Church this Fall this is the Sunday for you. All our Group Leaders will be around to answer your questions and help get you connected.
October 18-19 | The Set Free Retreat is a weekend set aside to focus on dealing with sin, hurts, hang-ups and struggles that we all face on a daily basis. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching... you will know the truth and the truth will set you FREE” (John 8:31-32 NIV)
Family Christmas Party
December 7 | This December we are hosting our first Family Christmas Party! This is a BIG, fun Christmas event for all those with children. There will be lots of activities and attractions for your kids to enjoy.
December 22-24 | Our Christmas Services are a fun, meaningful experience for the whole family.
Night to Shine
February 7, 2020 | Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older. It is an honour to celebrate people with developmental disabilities and give them a night they will never forget.
April 12, 2020 | Easter is a powerful time at Horizon - join us this Sunday as we explore the death and resurrection of Jesus.
July 27-31, 2020 | We might be bias but we think that Horizon Kids puts on the BEST Kids Camp each summer! For five days your kids will have the time of their lives at our Summer Party and everyone’s invited!
Registration will open April 19th.
View our full calendar on horizonfam.ca


The state of Minnesota has many unique and beautiful houses of worship. The various churches range from ancient and historical to contemporary and straightforward. However, the most magnificent and beautiful places of worship tend to have incredible architecture and rich history.
Cathedral of St.Paul is the most magnificent church and probably the most fantastic building in the state of Minnesota. It was put up in the early 1900s, and it is the third biggest house of worship in the U.S. The beautiful structure was designed after French churches in the city of Paris. It features classical and French Renaissance themes and a 186-ft tall dome in the center. Watch this video on Youtube.
Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis was built in the early 1900s, and it presents Beaux-Arts and Baroque architecture. The interior is wonderfully detailed and incredibly decorated, and it hosts a music festival every summer known as the Basilica Block Party to support local charities. Basilica of St.Mary is the most magnificent and historic place of worship in Minneapolis.
St. Andrews Church in St. Paul is another beautiful church, although it’s not an active church now but an arts academy. The excellent brick structure features a combination of Romanesque and Spanish Mission Revival architecture, in addition to a roofing made of colorful clay tiles.
Mighty Fortress Church is another incredible church in Minneapolis. It makes religion an enjoyable experience and encourages you to attend just as you are. The church believes everybody is significant and also has something to offer to the body of Christ. Its vision is to create a dynamic ministry that is centered on victorious Christian living and true worship. The primary focus of Mighty Fortress International is to give God’s life-changing word and biblical principles to help believers live victorious and prosperous lives.
Bishop Williams is the founder and senior pastor of Mighty Fortress Church. He is a Rhema Bible Training Center ministerial graduate. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications, a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Leadership, and two Doctorate Degrees from St. Thomas College in Florida and Midwest Christian College. Williams is married to Sabina Grant, and together they have three children. The couple has committed their lives to God, ministry, and family. Learn more about Mighty Fortress Church at Crunchbase.


Who are you, and what do you do?
My name is Kevin Barsotti and I am the pastor at the Ark Church in Havre, Montana.
What is one habit of yours that helps you be productive?
One habit that helps me be productive is starting each day with both
cardiovascular exercise and some strength conditioning.
What is your morning routine and how does it help you get the most out of your day?
My morning routine is crucial to my health and productivity. I get up before
6:00 a.m. and read Psalm 23 and the chapter from the Book of Proverbs that
correlates to the date of each day. Today was the 21st so I read Proverbs 21.
At the end of each month that does not have 31 days I read the rest of the
Book of Proverbs so that each year I have read the book twelve times. I then
vary my exercise routine with running, biking, walking, hiking, or using the
elliptical machine. I make sure that I do strength conditioning such as sit-
ups, push-ups, and some upper arm free weights.
In the last few years, what lifestyle, habit or behavior change has had the biggest positive impact on your life?
The best behavior change for me has been to reduce snacking after
suppertime. I have reduced the amount of caffeine I consume and the
amount of calories I consume. I have increased the amount of water I drink.
When you feel unfocused, what do you do?
I ask the Lord to help me direct my thoughts and then I force myself to study
or make that difficult contact.
What is one piece of software or a web service that you get immense value out of? How do you use it?
I use texting, emails, and my cell phone to communicate with others. I
delegate both Facebook duties and Sermon.net work to my associate pastor.
What is the one book you recommend most often and why?
I often recommend the Book of Proverbs because it has so much common
sense and wisdom for daily living. You can work a proverb into many
professional conversations without quoting chapter and verse. You will have
more practical wisdom to help problem-solve especially if you are part of a
What advice would you give a smart and ambitious recent college graduate? What advice should they ignore?
To smart and ambitious recent college graduates I would say that it takes
time to make fine wine. You need to work as if you are working for the Lord
while praying like it all depends on God. If you want to be great then learn
how to serve. The boss of the company should be the best servant of others.
When you receive a promotion recognize that promotion comes from the
Lord and then walk in the authority that you have been given or someone
else will take that authority and use it against you. Ignore negative thoughts
from negative people. Let your light shine and make a difference in
someone’s life. I always told my sons to go and make their bosses a lot of
money each day. This will keep the focus on someone else rather than on
What is your favorite quote, one you aim to live by?
I have lots of quotes I use but right now I catch myself saying, “God is good
all the time and all the time God is good.” I say, “Do the next right thing”
several times a month. If we recognize the favor of God in our lives and give
Him glory by how we treat others I believe that we will have a successful life
in His eyes and hear Him say, “Well done my good and faithful servant” one
day. May God bless you big.


Tired of the uppity and scolding version of Christ's birth? Get a load of this (originally here)....
Christmas is here and that can mean only one thing: and while I have no idea what that one thing is, I'm sure it's a huge load. But whatever it means, I thought now would be a good time to share with you the story of how it all began. Christianity is so pervasive in our society that even the staunchest atheist and most indifferent agnostic think they know the story, but you've been sold a lie. Here, the TRUE story of the first Christmas.
Long ago in the town of Nazareth, there lived a girl named Mary who was engaged to a man named Joseph. One day a man named Gabriel, clearly in the midst of an opium-induced freak-out, broke into Mary's room and nervously muttered something about Mary having a "God-baby" and how she must name it "Jesus" so Gabriel would be forced to give his penis a new name. Mary sat in stunned silence, wondering why this man had ripped the wings off a goose and nailed them to his back.
Soon after Gabriel's visit, it became obvious Mary was pregnant. Mary explained to Joseph this must be the "God-baby" the "winged man" told her about. Joseph quickly agreed and convinced Mary her unexplained black-outs and vaginal bruises were nothing to be concerned with. They were quickly married and Joseph told Mary they must head for Bethlehem immediately to pay a "special tax." When Mary asked about this special tax, Joseph responded, "Just get on the damn donkey."
At last they reached Bethlehem. After being turned away from several inns, it dawned on Joseph that others were not sympathetic to his plight. There was simply no way this many inns became "full" every time Joseph asked the innkeeper to "take care of this thing for me." But eventually a kind innkeeper told Joseph, "Yeah, I can do that. Just wait out back next to the goats."
Upon seeing Mary, it became obvious to the innkeeper that Joseph had misled him about the state of Mary's condition. He reneged on the deal and told Joseph to "do what you gotta do" in the stable and that the fee for his discretion would be "the same as for the other thing." Joseph tried to handle it but was constantly interrupted by curious passers-by. It was too late. The baby Jesus was born.
Meanwhile, on a hill overlooking Bethlehem, some shepherds watched their sheep. Suddenly, a man on fire appeared on a hill above them. Suffering unimaginable pain, the man shouted "STRANGE SMELL FROM COD! TODD'S SON HAS BEAN-CORN AND BETH THE HAM!" The shepherds heard something different and, with nothing else to do, headed to Bethlehem to see what that was about.
Once there, the shepherds searched for the Son of God. They tried to start the search in a tavern, but were stunned to see a baby lying in a pile of straw and animal waste. Deciding one baby is as good as another, they knelt down to worship him. Mary asked if the "winged man" spoke to them too. The shepherds exchanged glances before one responded "Um, I only noticed the glowing, but now that you mention it, he DID have wings." Joseph was weirded out, but decided to run with it.
In the East, Wise Men saw a new star in the sky. They had no idea what this meant. And since Wise Men must appear wise, one of them, while the others weren't looking, grabbed a scroll and jotted down that this meant a new ruler had been born. The others wondered how they had never before seen this text on their only scroll, but didn't want to look foolish by questioning a Wise Man.
The Wise Men set off to find this baby. They followed the star to Bethlehem. Stars are in space and can, for all intents and purposes, lead you to any location, but Bethlehem was here and they were tired. Later, while relieving themselves outside a stable, they heard Jesus cry. Appalled by the sight of a mother so young, they left the child everything they had, which included a small amount of gold and a couple sacks of gum resin they regrettably traded a camel for.
These men, angry with Joseph, waited for his return. Joseph pulled the men aside and explained. The Wise Men, while outraged at the idea that anyone would attempt to justify impregnating a young girl, decided it was better for her and the baby to live the lie. They assured Joseph his secret was safe, but did ask if they could use his tale for "this book of silly stories we're writing."
And that's why there's a tree in your living room and you annually put your kid on a fat stranger's lap. Merry Arbitrarily Chosen 24 Hours, everybody!


Regular price $19.95 USDRegular priceUnit price per
This is the most comprehensive scientific treatment of God and the afterlife to date. It combines natural scientific method, metaphysical method, medical studies, anthropological and genetics studies, and phenomenologicaldescriptions, showing how each distinct method and data set reinforces the others.
Regular price $34.95 USDRegular priceUnit price per
In Science, Reason, and Faith, Fr. Robert Spitzer, SJ, draws the modern reader's attention to the many seeming conflicts between science, reason, and Catholic teaching. By tackling these difficult questions, he shows that it is precisely through the integration of science, reason, and faith that we can truly discover ourselves, our world, and our God.
Regular price $22.95 USDRegular priceUnit price per
The Purpose of this Book—Seeing Light in the Darkness. “Suffering can be a remarkably positive inspiration and power—when we view it within the context of love and eternal life. I did not appreciate this in my earlier years, but have come to realize that it is the highpoint of wisdom – if we have faith in a loving God.”


Mynoa Ray Williams spent her last days on earth doing what she loved most: serving and helping people.\n\nMynoa was born into a loving family on November 10, 1949. She grew up the fourth of ten children. She adored her amazing parents, and from them she learned to work hard, love God, and serve others.\n\nShe graduated from BYU with a degree in Elementary Education. She was an accomplished musician as a pianist and a vocalist, and she performed vocally with her sisters. She knew a song for everything and sang throughout the day her whole life long.\n\nShortly after finishing school, Mynoa married her longtime friend Alan, and together they began their life’s dream of raising a family. She loved being a mom, and she anxiously awaited and welcomed each of her twelve children. She was an incredible mother, passing on to her children her passion for books, learning, and music, as well as her work ethic and her sense of fun.\n\nMynoa had an adventurous, energetic spirit and a knack for making even dull things interesting. She instigated many sock wars, got-you-last matches, and hikes. She was always willing to try something new and would jump into whatever game, sport, or water fight her kids and their friends were starting.\n\nThere were no strangers to Mynoa. She could talk to anyone anywhere. She is fondly remembered for the way she could get you to tell her your life story and make you feel genuinely cared about on first acquaintance.\n\nMynoa loved the Lord. She dedicated her life to Him, serving Him in many ways throughout her life. She was thrilled in her later years to be able to follow in her eight sons’ footsteps by serving a mission with her husband. And then another shortly thereafter. \n\nMynoa’s greatest joy was being with her family, and she gave her whole life to serving and loving them. She passed from this life surrounded by the people she lived her life for--her husband and children.\n\nMynoa was greeted on the other side by her father, Irving; her mother, Ethlyn; and her sister Juanita.\n\nShe leaves her precious memory to be held, honored, and cherished by the countless people whose lives she touched here on earth--most prominently her husband, Alan; her children, David (Cherise), Duane (Ruth), Juli (Peter), Russell, Keith (Meagen), Shirlene (Scott), Amy (Trevor), Josh (Emily), Nephi (Hannah), Spencer (Juliette), Moroni (Sarah), and Camilla (James); her forty-seven grandchildren; and her one great-grandbaby.\n\nWe will gather on Friday and Saturday, January 31 and February 1, at 114 South 400 West in Orem, Utah, to remember Mynoa and the gift her life has been for us: A night of memories and celebration of life will be held Friday from 7 to 8:30 p.m., with a viewing on Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed shortly after by funeral services from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.


We are 3 months away before the ending of 2018 and as I look over this year, I remember where I was at this time in 2017. So much has happened and so many things have changed. I sit back and question my decisions and my thoughts in this thing called life.
As I gather my thoughts, it’s clear to see how I have transformed while transitioning. Do you know what that feels like? It’s one of the most uncomfortable feelings you can imagine. Everything that I thought was important to me was suddenly not of interest to me anymore and things I thought I would never be interested in suddenly took precedence over the old.
When God is using you to do something greater, you will find a degree of uncertainty and unease. This is when you know you’re on a faith walk trusting and believing it will work out for your good. I had to stop fighting myself and allow the transformation to take place internally so that I can reflect on the outside what was happening in the inside.
Sometimes we have to purge from the inside to ensure we are clean before we can move forward. Anyone can do an external makeover and still be dirty internally.
Stop trying to convince yourself that you are not worthy of the calling God has on your life. One thing we must all remember is that God doesn’t call those that are QUALIFIED, he qualifies those that are CALLED!! Are you listening for your call?


I’ve been a very bad Christian today. I’m not even sure that after everything I did today I could still call myself a Christian. If i die tonight I’m not really certain that I will have the guts to face our Lord God.
One of the characteristics of God is that He is a jealous God. He doesn’t want his followers to believe in other gods for He is the only One True God. He also doesn’t want His people to eat food or accept anything that has been offered to idols. This was clearly stated in the Bible and today I was more than happy to disobey Him.
Today Miagao celebrated it patronal feast and I actually looked really excited – I even helped prepare the food – to eat the food. I really let myself drown because I heeded my worldly urges. I let the Devil get over me and convince me that it is okay because our God is full of compassion and mercy and He would forgive me if i ask HIm. This is just wrong and I am ashamed that I had done these things.
I’m a bad Christian for eating foods that were offered to idols but I’m even worse for eating those food even with the knowledge that it is wrong. And I just became a monster for eating those food even with the knowledge that it is wrong and took advantage of God’s merciful attribute. I’m so ashamed Lord. I have let you down. I didn’t ask the Holy Spirit’s intervention and I clearly tainted my church for this sin. I have also shamed my parents because they’ve been teaching us to stay away from eating food from the idols ever since I was kid and what I did today was just complete defiance of the supposed values they’ve instilled in me.
It is also pathetic for me to have done that sin. I only did it all because of free food and I let my stomach be my god and it was just so wrong.
I have already asked God for forgiveness but that doesn’t change the fact that I broke a covenant today. I am just so ashamed.


God is Good Metal Sign for the Home
The God is Good metal home décor sign simply and beautifully states what you believe in your heart. Display your God is Good sign anywhere in your home to remind you of this good truth every time you see it.
This clean, elegant sign looks great in entryways, family rooms, bedrooms, and on porches, garden walls, and patios. Available in a variety of colors, this metal artwork will look great anywhere you display it. We take great joy in our work, and we know you’ll love your product!


Today marks the culmination of our anticipation, a day brimming with wishes for your abundant happiness, enduring love, and boundless success in all your endeavors.
Indeed, it's a remarkable occasion to rejoice alongside you. As you journey forth, expanding your faith, may you encounter prosperity at every turn. Congratulations on your Communion!
May the divine presence grace your every step, perpetually heeding your prayers and steadfastly walking by your side. May each stride you take be guided towards spiritual enlightenment.
To commemorate this auspicious day, we've curated a splendid set menu featuring a delectable three-course meal priced at €38 per adult and €18 per child, exclusively for you and your young one.
For more information on Communion Events and or gift vouchers, get in touch today. Phone us on 066 712 1499 or email email@example.com
Click here to see The Communion Menu 2024


The temple is situated in the gorge of the Shan River in 12 km from the town
Gori. It is well-known medieval temple of the 7th century. The temple's
architecture is executed in the same style as the Jvari Temple in Mtskheta.
It's walls are full of remarkable mural paintings
of the XI century. Its facade is decorated by a great number of ingraved stone
It is situated in Kutaisi and it`s an important monument of the medieval
Georgian art. The name of the cathedral is connected with the king Bagrat III
who was the donator of this church. The Dormition cahtedral was built in
1001-1008. The inner space was ornamented with mosaic. In 1691 it was blowed
up by the Turks. Many beautiful carved stone fragments are scattered around
It was built in 1213-1222 during the reign of Lasha-Giorgi. It is situated
far from the inhabited places. The ktitor is king`s Amiredjib, Kavtar son of
Kajipai. This cathedral is one of the best examples of the georgian
architecture of this period. It is decorated with a great number of masterly
curved stone ornaments. The church was abandoned long ago. These are frescoes
of various periods in the interior. Nowadays they are being restored and
This four apse church of the 6th century was built on behalf of St. Mary.
The horseshoe type shape typical for early period can be traced in the plan of
all the apses and in the arcade of the south and the west parts of the church.
It was badly damaged after reparing in the 19th-20th centuries. The church was
built with cobble-stone. Its original dimensions are about 13m x 13m.
At the dawn of Christianity king Mirian gave an order to erect wooden cross
on the mount situated in front of the ancient capital of Georgia - Mtskheta.
Later on this place in 586-604 there was built one of the most popular
architectural monuments in Georgia - Jvari (Cross). The composing centre of
the buildingis square and the dome rests on the eight angles. The
architecturally ornamented cathedral with figure reliefs, its forms,
proportions and colour harmonically merges into the environment. The Jvari
Temple crowns the mountain at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers.
It is an outstanding creation of medieval Georgian architecture, distinguished
for the harmony of architectural forms and the strictness and clearness of the
Mtskheta - ancient capital of Georgia, founded according to legends by son
of Japhet, Mtskhetos. Archeological excavations revealed long and interesting
history of the city. The big cathedral of XI C. - Svetitskhoveli was built on
place of first Christian georgian church, which was connected with legends of
the shirt of our Lord, brought in Georgia.
It was built in the 7th century and belongs to the most beautiful samples of
old Georgian art. The church that was renewed in the 18th century, was partly
destroyed by the earthquake in 1940. Later in 1952-53 it was totally rebuilt.
Its main decor is the cornice with thin raw of arches. This tiny cross-dome
type church impresses the visitors by combining together its severe and
||The Shiomgvime Monastery
It was founded by Shio of the "thirteen Assyrian fathers" who came
to Georgia in the 6th century and strived much for Christianity. The old
church was built in the beginning of the 6th century on behalf of Jon the
Baptist, It is the so called "free cross" type building, very plain and
strict. There have been built a great number of various buildings but the
old part has preserved its original forms. The fresco paintings belong
to the end of the 19th century.
||Uplistsikhe. 9th-10th c.c
Uplistsikhe is situated near Gori on the banks of the river Mtkvari.
It is an antique period city cut out in rocks. According to Georgian historical
documents, it was built by a Georgian ruier Uplos. A certain amount of
chambers must belong to the last centuries B.C., these are also some other
rooms dating back to the beginning of the 1st century A.D. and middle ages.
Uplistsikhe played an important role in the life of the country even in
the 9th-10th centuries.


Marlowe Parks was born and raised in New York City. He was introduced to the Seventh Day Adventist movement by a co-worker and was baptized in August 1998. His wife Melshara was soon baptized in December 1998. Together Marlowe and Melshara have two children: Taji, 15 and Judaea 10.
During this time, the Lord opened up many opportunites for Marlowe to preach in various churches in the Greater New York and Northeastern Conferences. Marlowe went on to study to be a pastor by enrolling in the Personal Ministries Institute, a theological extension course of Atlantic Union College in which he completed all of the theological requirements. He and his family then went on to move to Leominster, MA in which to enroll in the Adult Degree Program of Atlantic Union College to complete the requirements of a pastor. During this time he worked as a Bible Worker for the Southern New England Conference. God had other plans for Marlowe and his family in which He led them into the self supporting work as outlined in the Spirit of Prophecy.
After reading the exhaustive amount of counsel regarding country living, The Lord providentially opened the doors for them to move to Maine. It was here in Maine that "true education" was taught to them. Marlowe learned the trade of carpentry and was able to pass that knowledge onto his son Taji, who at the time was 11 years old and later to his daughter Judaea. Melshara as well learned canning, gardening, bread making, natural remedies, and a host of other skills prevalent for those who are living in the end time. Through this knowledge God put it into the hearts of The Parks Family to begin a ministry based on pages 192 and 194 of Ministry of Healing which states that those who have various trades should assist poor families to live in the country and help them to yield a livelihood, thus the birth of Pasture 4 His Flock. Through this ministry, The Parks build small cabin homes for Seventh Day Adventists who believe that country living is a requirement to prepare one's character and to prepare practically for the National Sunday Law and the No Buy, No Sell Decree. They also preach the Present Truth Messages for this time as well as conduct revival and evangelistic meetings. They also teach others the skills that they have graciously learned so that God's people may be the head and not the tail. One can go to their website pasture4hisflock.com and discover more about their building ministry as well as view pictures and videos.
Pasture 4 His Flock
Last Updated (Monday, 21 September 2015 10:33)


Although a church was mentioned at Weston Colville as early as the 11th century, the present church was originally built in the 14th century. This can be seen from the lower parts of the tower, the chancel and the south doorway. In 1824 the tower fell down and had to be rebuilt together with the chancel and possibly, the north wall of the nave. Many further repairs and alterations have been carried out, including the addition of the vestry in the late 19th century. The church is characterised by the unusual pattern of grey bricks framing the flints. (from a Short Guide to St Mary’s by Chloe Cockerill)
The church is still in use as the parish church with weekly Sunday services and a dedicated Friends organisation that helps to maintain the church building. It is still a focus of village life and in use by all the village for baptisms, weddings and funerals.
Further images and text to come


The gift of encouragement is listed in Romans as a spiritual gift (some translations use "exhortation"). What is this gift? The word encouragement used in. Devotional Time · DayBrighteners · Promise Box - God's Gifts - The Christian Gift Company. Promise Boxes · Prayer Cube - Traditional Prayers - The Christian Gift. Shop the most unique selection of wholesale Christian gifts, inspirational home decor and other faith based items at affordable prices with Faithworks! Wholesale Christian Gifts · Magnet - All Is Calm, All Is Bright · Magnet - The Wonders of His Love · Facing Cancer with Hope Book · Grieving with Hope: Leaning on. Mother's Day Gift Gift for Christian Home James | Etsy · Christian Gift for Baptism with Asian Style Little Buildings | Etsy · Mental stability bible verse.
Fear Not For I Am With You Christian Encouragement Gifts For Women Teens Girls Bible Scripture Verse Encouragement, Religious Graduation Give a heartwarming. It reminds recipients(Christian Friends) of how great and unique they are and how important they are to you. The printing is bold and clear, not easy to fad. Christian gifts designed to uplift your spirit and encourage your heart. | Baptism Gifts | Confirmation Gifts | First Communion Gifts | Religious Gifts. Cancer Gifts of Hope · Support & Encourage · Gifts of Hope · Comforting Throws, Blankets, Pillows · Tokens & Encouragement Keepsakes · Be Brave · Stronger than You. 1pc, Encouragement Gifts For Christian Religious Gifts Scripture Gifts Inspirational Gifts Bible Verse Religious Gifts For Women Mom Teen Daughter Sister ; wendy. Inspire and uplift with our Christian encouragement gifts. Our collection has everything you need to show your support and remind your loved ones that they. Check out our christian gift selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our charm necklaces shops. You may also like · Personalized Christian Gifts For Women, Encouragement Gift Tumbler, Inspirational Bible Verse Gifts, Women · Isaiah Tumbler, Christian. You'll find your favorite Bible verses or life scriptures transformed into an inspirational gift. Whether you're looking for unique Christian gifts. TouchPoints for New Believers puts God's words of encouragement and affirmation at the fingertips of new Christians. These will make great gifts for.
These books from In Awe Handmade Gifts are overflowing with truth and make awesome Scripture gifts. You can pick from 60 Bible verses to serve as an encouraging. Christian Art Gifts Bread of Life Scripture Cards in Double-Sided Polystone Holder - John Inspirational Bible Verses, Prayers & Promises, Multicolor for. Religious Gifts · Religious Gifts · Willow Tree® Nativity Scene · Mary's Angels Sunflower Ornament · Snow Angel Ornament · Heirloom Angels. Our cozy bible verse blankets are the perfect encouragement gifts for your family and friends. Get something special for loved ones today with our range of design-led Christian encouragement gifts, a wide range of creative gifts for different tastes. TouchPoints for New Believers puts God's words of encouragement and affirmation at the fingertips of new Christians. These will make great gifts for. Check out our gifts for christians selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our encouragement cards. Christian Art Gifts has a creative and modern approach for gift ideas including a wide selection of Christian gifts, inspirational gifts, bibles, journals. Christian Encouragement Gifts for Women Coffee Tea Gift Mug. Add. Gingprous Gifts, Inspirational Encouragement Gifts for Women, Friends, Coworker with Gift.
Christian Get-Well Soon Gifts · 1. Get Well Soon Scripture Note Cards by Navy Peony · 2. Philippians Bracelet for Women by Memgift · 3. I can do all this. CHRISTIAN GIFTS ; Guardian Angel Ronaldo Bracelet · $ ; Faith Over Fear Cross Necklace Gold or Silver · $ ; Small Hammered Open Cross Necklace Skosh. Fear Not For I Am With You Christian Encouragement Gifts For Women Teens Girls Bible Scripture Verse Encouragement, Religious Graduation Give a heartwarming. The gift of encouragement is listed in Romans as a spiritual gift (some translations use "exhortation"). What is this gift? The word encouragement used in. Be Joyful In Hope Christian Wall Decor Code: bejoyful $ ; A Friend Loves At All Times Christian Wall Decor Code: friendloves $ ; The Good Shepherd by.


The fear of missing out, also known as FOMO, is a condition described as an individual or individuals fearing that they will miss out, or not be a part of some signifcant event. This fear can produce negative emotions that could potentially result in dangerous behavior. This behavior can manifest itself as anxiety or panic, hoarding, financial liquidation, or other fight or flight responses, which do not promote sound peace or spiritual well-being.
There is a significant difference between the need to buy extra supplies and the compulsion to overstock (hoard) which can be very expensive and exhaustive. Is there a better way in times of crisis?
It Will Appear is a better way, designed by God, and available to those who put their trust in Him. A study of secular as well as biblical history, demonstrates heroic interventions and other miracles and tales of joyful survival during times of need. I would like to share just a few of my personal miraculous encounters.
During a recent vacation to Hawaii, I realized I needed, or rather wanted a few things for my comfort. I could have easily purchased these items. However, there was no emergency, I was only kvetching (which is Yiddish for complex undesirable dilemmas).
First of all, I wanted a different shampoo other than the coconut scented shampoo provided by the hotel. I needed limes for my water, some disposable drinking cups, and one or two umbrellas for the seasonal rains in Hawaii.
My husband and I left our room to venture out for the day. On a long community table, there appeared several items for the taking: one large container of Pantene (premium brand) shampoo and another of Pantene conditioner, along with several red SOLO plastic cups, and three limes. We collected our angelic-provided find and took the “booty” back to our room. Our next stop was to check our dinner reservations at a local restaurant for our 40th anniversary. While confirming our reservations, we encountered one of those seasonal rain events. Behold, free famous named brand umbrellas were sitting in a bin for our use. At the end of our trip, we donated those umbrellas along with several other items. Not only did we repay someone else’s kind gesture, we sowed seed, and we paid it forward.
While in Hawaii, my husband and I were tracking the events of the new Corona Virus. We discussed ordering a few things to be delivered to our home, just in case. There was no anxiety, only stock smarts. Upon returning home, everything we purchased now seemed like a necessity, rather than a routine purchase. Those items were no longer available for purchase upon our return. It was only because we were at peace and responded to God’s promptings and timing that our products were available and delivered.
God is not confused, fearful, or poor. Angels are on assignment prompting us with thoughts and inclinations to act in peace. These angelic promptings appear in front of us in store lines providing tips to where to go and what to do. We must be at peace as we sense, listen, believe, and act when we have a “random thought” that requires immediate action.
The Bible gives us countless examples of how God meets our needs. Isaiah 30:21 tells us, “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying: ‘This is the way, walk ye in it, When ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” This scripture reminds us to incline our hearts and tune our spiritual ears to the promptings of God. In the Bible, we are also told that the ravens fed the prophet Elijah, Jesus fed 5,000 with two fishes and three loaves of bread, and Elisha multiplied the widow’s oil after her offering.
Our continual giving (sowing) ensures a future harvest when we need it. This strategic tenet ensures our continued needs will be met. I would encourage everyone not to over analyze this principle, but rather to sow when prompted.
I warmly recall a story from a missionary friend of mine while on a trip to Africa. Shireen’s husband shared with her the exciting news that they would be hosting visiting ministers for dinner. The only glitch to his dinner plans was that it would wipe them out of their remaining food supply. However, they fed the ministers as prompted. The very next day, a basket of bread and other food supplies “mysteriously” appeared at their front door.
In the past, money has not only “mysteriously” appeared in my empty wallet, but in some cases, it has also changed denominations. Upon paying for lunch one day, I emptied my wallet in front of my husband with only a soft crumply fifty-dollar bill. We proceeded to the mall across the street from the restaurant. I pulled out the fifty dollar bill to pay for a new shirt. The fifty I pulled out transformed into a crisp $100.00 bill. At the time, there was no pressing need for the multiplication. However, that experience now serves as a perpetual reminder to encourage me that God will supply all our needs according to His riches and glory by Christ Jesus!
These personal accounts are just the tip of the provision iceberg in my life. Airplanes, money, food, and so forth., miraculously appearing have become all too common for me.
Remain in Shalom (peace, reassurance, and blessing). Angels are working on behalf of those who put their trust in God. God is your Savior; He is your Healer; He is your Provider. What do you need? Rest assured, It Will Appear!


Christian Life Coaching and Word Ministry
Cynthia Chirinda is a passionate Christian who understands that faith plays a vital role in personal and professional development. Her Christian Life Coaching and Word Ministry service is designed to help individuals combine their faith with their goals to achieve success. Cynthia uses her coaching expertise and her knowledge of the Bible to guide individuals on their journey to personal and spiritual growth. Her coaching sessions are infused with biblical principles, and she helps individuals align their goals with God’s plan for their lives. Whether it’s overcoming obstacles, achieving personal or professional goals, or deepening one’s faith, Cynthia’s Christian Life Coaching and Word Ministry service is the perfect solution for anyone looking to combine their faith with their goals.


Date ca. 1498
Movement High Renaissance
Dimensions height 68.2″
Housed at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
This work was commissioned by a French cardinal to adorn his tomb chapel near St. Peter’s; Michelangelo promises in his contract to create “the most beautiful work of marble in Rome”. While most pietas aimed to portray the harsh, gruesome realities of the Crucifixion, Michelangelo instead conveys a solemn calmness, emphasized in part by the stabilizing triangular form that the figures create.
The Virgin appears incredibly young – her youth was intentionally portrayed so as to imply her eternal purity; her youth and calmness are further imposed by the high-buff finish given by Michelangelo. After confusion spread over the identity of this work’s creator, Michelangelo carved his name into the Virgin’s sash.


How to Find Us
View HSAC Restoration
PC Rescue Mission
Our Daily Bread
Purchase a Church Print
Historic St. Andrew Church
1004 Chestnut Ave.Panama City, FL. 32401
Mathew 28:19: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Historic St. Andrew Church is accredited with the Christian & Missionary Alliance.
Our Current Schedule:
(Sunday) (Wednesday) (Nursery Provided on Sundays)
Adult Bible Study Mid-Week Prayer
10:00 AM 7:00 PM
:Richard Duncan email:


Witness Report Instructions
For this assignment, you will write a 300–900–word report of a witnessing encounter. This assignment requires that you witness to someone who either does not profess to be a believer or to someone who does, but has no real understanding what that means. Do not report on an encounter when you encouraged someone who understands the gospel and professes to be a believer, but has drifted or is discouraged. This report must contain 3 parts; each part must be broken down with a bold heading.
- Briefly describe the person(s) with whom you shared.
- Briefly describe what was shared and how the gospel was shared.
A clear explanation of the gospel must be given in this section. In other words, does your report indicate that you articulated how a person can be born again (aka “saved”) at some point in the conversation, even if it was included in a personal testimony and not directed at the person being witness to?
- Briefly describe the response of the person(s) with whom you shared.
This assignment requires you to engage in a clear gospel conversation during this course. Students often struggle with this assignment; however, these conversations do not have to be strained or awkward.
Here are some witnessing tips on looking for opportunities:
1. Pray for gospel opportunities in everyday conversations. Pray that God would give you the opportunity, help you see the opportunity, and give you the courage to act upon the opportunity.
2. Consider writing a letter or email to a friend which clearly articulates the gospel.
3. Consider walking up to a stranger in a public environment such as the mall or in your neighborhood. Tell them that you have a class assignment where you are required to share your faith with someone who does not hold to your faith. Tell them you are a follower of Jesus and see if they would be willing for you to share with them and then hear what they believe.
4. Consider approaching a co-worker who obviously does not follow Jesus. Tell them that you have a class assignment where you are required to share your faith with someone. Ask them if they would be willing for you to share with them, then if they would be willing to share with you what they believe, and then allow for some interaction.
5. Post something in an online forum that allows for public interaction and see what happens.
6. Consider approaching that family member, friend, or neighbor the Lord has been placing on your heart for a long time because they have not trusted in Jesus.
Be creative; witnessing does not have to be difficult.
A foundational call of the believer is to make disciples, which involves sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. This good news is that although we were helplessly lost in sin, God in his mercy sent his Son to live and fulfill the law on our behalf, die as a sacrifice atoning for our sins, and rise again conquering death and hell. Now, for all who place their faith in Jesus, accepting Him as the one who lived, died, and rose in their place, we are restored to a right relationship with God as his child and have the promise of eternal life with Him.