WHY THE DEVIL GOES TO and why you need to know
forthcomingevents June Sat 9 JOINT MEN/WOMEN'S Breakfast CELEBRATING THE NATIONS Fri 15 Youth Conference – MI07 Sat 16 Youth Conference – MI07 SUN 17 FATHER'S DAY SERVICE Sat 23 Promise of Purity INTRODUCTION Promise of Purity SOCIAL MON 25 CARMEL: BIBLE COLLEGE OPEN DAY Wed 27 Partners Meeting in Auditorium J u LY fri 6 cbc: summer break (til 17 sept) SAT 7 GRADUATION CEREMONY SUN 8 GUEST SPEAKER DR CORNE BEKKER MON 9 CCS IN SERVICE DAY SAT 14 VALIANT MEN'S BREAKFAST FRI 20 CCS summer break (til 5 sept) SAT 21 WACA SOCIAL MON 30 & TUE 31 GET SPORTED
8.30am 6.30PM 7.30PM – 10.00am – 10.30PM 9.00am – 11.00am – 9.30AM – 7.00pm
10.00pm 8.30pm 10.30pm 2.00pm 12.30PM
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A partner is a sharer, an associate, one who engages with another in business, one who plays on the same side as another. Partnership is important – It releases power to get the job done. We can accomplish the Great Commission together in unity. Partnership in prayer – We believe it is vital for every partner to develop a strong personal prayer life, and to pray for the leadership for godly wisdom and direction from the Lord. Partnership in caring – We are instructed to watch over and take care of the partners in our charge (Acts 20:28). Partnership in sharing – The whole ministry of sharing is to give oneself in the areas of love, time, talents and finances.
from Bath Follow A4 towards Bristol, bypassing Keynsham, to the Park-and-Ride (on your left) on the outskirts of Bristol, just before traffic lights. At these lights proceed straight (in outside lane) for approx. 150 yards (McDonald’s on your right). HSBC Bank follows on your right. Immediately before the Bank, take the driveway along its right, between the buildings. carmel:centre is behind HSBC.
Account Details United Kingdom Allied Irish Carmel Christian Centre Sort Code: Account No: 23-85-85 00709260 Should you wish to donate by Gift Aid please contact the church office.
South Africa Anchor Ministries International First National Bank, Cresta Branch Sort Code: Account No: 25-49-05 51440080590
carmel: ministries international is a registered charity (Charity No. 1094052) with Luke 9:2 as its mission statement. All finances sown go into the work of establishing God’s Kingdom through evangelism and preparing labourers for the harvest.
DIRECTIONS
PARTNERSHIP >>
AUGUST WED 1 – FRI 3 GET SPORTED SAT 4 PROMISE OF PURITY SEMINAR 9.00AM – 4.00PM PROMISE OF PURITY CEREMONY 6.30PM MON 6, FRI 10, MON 13, FRI 17 MON 20, FRI 24 ANOINTED MARRIAGE 6.15PM – 10.00PM SUN 12 – FRI 17 WASH AWAY 07 SAT 25 ANOINTED MARRIAGE cermony TBC SUN 26 GUEST SPEAKER – REV JOE MCCROSKY 10.30AM MON 27 BANK HOLIDAY
from M4 J19 Proceed towards Bristol along M32 to J3. Leave M32 at J3 heading left onto dual carriageway, following signs for A4 and Bath. Approach the next roundabout in left lane and continue to follow signs for A4 Bath, to traffic lights. Proceed straight on and over a high level bridge, descending to another roundabout. Proceed straight on, in right hand lane, to next roundabout. Leave this roundabout to the right with Sainsbury’s on your left. Keep in left hand lane and go straight on at next two sets of lights which come a short distance apart. * from Bristol Centre Follow signs for A4, passing Temple Meads Station. Follow A4 to traffic lights with Burger King on your left and HTV studios on your right Go straight on at these lights and the others which follow at a short distance. * *The A4 continues uphill, through a series of traffic lights and a short section of one-way road with a bus lane on the left. The road descends to a garage on your left at the bottom, then ascends to traffic lights. Keep in left hand lane and proceed straight on. Continue to next traffic lights, then go straight on. You are now approaching carmel:centre on your left which is not easily sighted. Look for HSBC bank on your left and turn left into the driveway along its right, between the buildings. carmel:centre is behind HSBC.
contents carmel: 24:7 is published by carmel: ministries international. Reproduction of this publication in part or whole is prohibited.
‘He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.’ Luke 9:2
carmel: is fulfilling the vision ‘multiply to occupy’. As our numbers steadily increase, we joyfully celebrate both natural and supernatural births with more and more for baby dedications and believer's baptisms. Articles in c:view on the Empowered Women’s Conference and the Wash (carmel: young people) reflect further exciting growth. In March, Jesse and Cathy Duplantis joined us once again, each speaking to us as family, with sincerity and from their love and experience of God. Space only permitted a brief overview on Jesse’s message (see c:view) as we wanted to feature Cathy as a guest speaker at the Women’s Conference (see pages 6-7). We trust Jesse will forgive us for this and not be too harsh on Cathy… Our own articles remind believers of the importance of knowing God and His Holy Spirit and obeying the Word – not only to mature spiritually but to safeguard us in these perilous times (pages 8 to 12). Finally, be encouraged as you read prayerworks (page 10). See God’s faithfulness to answer prayers in every area of people’s lives; join us in thanking God for who He is, what He has done – and what He is going to do.
carmel:
WHY THE DEVIL GOES TO CHURCH CONTENTS c:view latest news
M DI SOMMA TEACHING
4-5
G DI SOMMA TEACHING
6-7
PRAYER TESTIMONIES 11
8-10
M DI SOMMA TEACHING
FUNDRASING INTERVIEW
12-13
14 -15
For comments and suggestions for the next 24:7 please email US AT 24-7@carmelcentre.org All teachings in this edition are abridged. Full versions are available to order on CD or DVD. Contact us today using the details below.
SERVICES Saturday night Sunday morniING Sunday morning
Gerri and Michelle Di Somma APPROX. 4 MILES TO BRISTOL CITY CENTRE
CONTACT DETAILS CARMEL:CENTRE 817a Bath Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5NL
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BRISLINGTON PARK & RIDE
TOWARDS BATH
T: (0117) 977 5533 F: (0117) 977 5678 W: www.carmelcentre.org Editor: Michelle Di Somma, Associate Editors: Lyn Birdsall, Julian Clarke, (cre8ION EDITORIAL), Copywriters: LYN BIRDSALL, JULIAN CLARKE, Sanya Adewusi (cre8ION: EDITORIAL), Transcribers/Proofreaders: beryl stanley, john stock, emma hodges, jade mumuney, Margaret Stoltz (cre8ION: EDITORIAL) Design/Art Direction: Darrell Irwin, Loulita Di Somma, Nathan Logan, Rosie Isbell (cre8ION:PRINT), Photography: Tim Byrne, Darrell Irwin, Julian Clarke, (cre8ION: PHOTOGRAPHY) Printers: Yeomans Press Bible quotations are from the New King James Version unless stated otherwise.
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EXCEPTIONAL '07
THE TYRANNY OF THE 'CANT'S'
Empowered Women’s ministry was founded by Michelle Di Somma to offer regular discipleship, teaching and fellowship to enable women to reach their full potential in God. Exceptional Women’s Conferences were launched in 2006. Their purpose is to provide the opportunity for women from other churches to join carmel: in allowing God to touch, change and empower lives through the ministry of the Word and the Holy Spirit. In March ’07 Empowered Women hosted their second annual conference. The main auditorium was packed with women from many of the 146 churches invited. Ladies travelled from places all over the country, including Wales, London, Nottingham, Cambridge and even U.S.A. – just to name a few! This is in line with the vision to impact lives both nationally and internationally. On arrival, the ladies were tempted with tasty morsels to dunk in melted chocolate flowing from fountains, before settling down to receive the flowing of the Word. We were thrilled to welcome Cathy Duplantis as our special guest speaker. She and eleven Empowered Women from carmel: and other churches ministered on ‘Living the Exceptional Life’. They each taught from the Word, giving illustrations from their own experiences, encouraging others with what they have learned. We look forward to the next annual Empowered Women’s Conference, where ordinary women become exceptional. In the meantime, if you would like to know more about the Empowered Women’s Ministry, please contact us.
Dr Jesse Duplantis made carmel: centre his first stop at the start of his 2007 European tour in March. He and his wife Cathy joined carmel: family once more, this time ministering on how to live the exceptional life. This was to be the theme of the women’s conference, and Jesse made us laugh as he introduced himself as one of the women speakers. Abraham’s struggles and achievements were used as an example of living the exceptional life. Dr Jesse reminded us that there are always obstructions and then showed us how they can be overcome. He said that there will always be someone to tell you that you can’t do something, especially if you are a visionary. Many of us tell ourselves that we can't do it. He exhorted us to break free from the ‘can’ts’ and to write down the following God-given encouragement as a reminder: To achieve fullness of vision, or to get your mind away from ‘I can’t’ you must use the conquering quality of application, a steady pursuit and an invincible faith. He quoted the key scripture from Philippians 4:13 – ‘I can do all things, through Christ who strengthens me!’ The power to do comes from Him, but the obedience to do it comes from you. God freed Abraham’s mind from ‘I can’t.’ Then, His power and Abraham’s obedience hooked together, overcoming obstacles which previously seemed impossible. Dr Jesse concluded - get rid of the ‘can’ts’, apply yourself like Abraham did – obey and believe that God does the impossible and walk in faith to see it happen. This, he said is how to live an exceptional life. Our prayers are with Dr Jesse as he continues his tour. We look forward to welcoming him and Cathy again soon.
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LATEST NEWS c:view highlights some of the major events in carmel: ministries international since our previous issue of 24:7. For more information contact carmel: on 0117 977 5533 or email info@carmelcentre.org
MISSION INCREDIBLE A new generation is arising world-wide, a generation sold out to God, unashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. carmel: young adults, known as ‘The Wash’, are learning to overcome challenges, pressures and temptations, make life-impacting decisions and facing responsibility. They are demonstrating their changed lives, explaining their faith, taking words of hope beyond the church walls to unsaved young adults in the community – and drawing them in. As a result, numbers at weekly meetings of ‘The Wash’ are rapidly growing and lives are changing as hearts are given to the Lord. To be Christ’s witnesses is not a ‘Mission Impossible’ but a ‘Mission Incredible’ - the name of a two-day happening to be launched at carmel: from Friday 15th to Saturday 16th June.
The Wash invites all young adults as well as those leading or working with young adults to come and be equipped and empowered for life at this Youth Conference. Teaching on faith, purity, loyalty and integrity will inspire a generation to understand their purpose in life and to shake the nations, to put an end to compromise and live a resurrected life. ‘Mission: Incredible’ is for those who desire to see change in their generation. It’s free – simply register online. See back page for info. It’s not a secret mission – let local churches and youth centres know about it. Whether you come alone or bring someone with you, you won’t regret it. It’s your mission – choose to accept it.
Register FREE online at www.carmelcentre.org/conferences/missionincredible
find heaven findheaven
Monthly messages for church leaders Fresh manna delivered to your door to feed, refresh and sustain. From Australia to Zimbabwe and beyond, church leaders are enjoying ‘A Word in Season'. To register for your free monthly message, telephone carmel:missions 0117 977 5533 or email: missions@carmel-uk.org
If you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, we invite you to take a step of faith to change your life!
Steps to salvation: >>01 Acknowledge: that you’re a sinner and need Jesus
What the Bible says: God made you in His image Genesis 1:27 The sin of unbelief separates you from God Isaiah 59:2 God provided the way back through giving His Son Jesus Christ John 3:16 The way back is through the cross 1 Peter 2:24 You receive Jesus by faith as a free gift, not earned or deserved Romans 6:23
>>02 Repent: ask God for His forgiveness >>03 Believe: that Jesus paid the price for your sins >>04 Receive: invite Jesus to come into your heart and life >>05 Confess: that Jesus is your Lord and Saviour >>06 Thank Him!
Simply pray the following prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I confess that I am a sinner and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and was sent to die and be raised again so I could be forgiven and have eternal life. I ask you into my heart and life. I thank you this is the beginning of a new life with you and I confess you as my Lord and Saviour. If you prayed this for the first time, contact us and let us know. We would love to help you with your new life! Contact us using the details on the inside cover (page 3). 5
Cathy, once she was born again, challenged her husband jesse to watch Billy Graham, commenting that Jesse was saved that day. they now head up a global ministry. Enjoy the highlights of Cathy's message at she reveals why you are
DESTINED FOR
When you encounter Jesus Christ, things totally turn around – no matter how dark your life may be. You need to believe that you are destined for greatness. Confess right now, ‘I am destined for greatness, because I am exceptional. I serve an exceptional God and He wants to do exceptional things through me.’ Blessed with Heaven on Earth
Ephesians 1:3 tells us that we are blessed with ‘all the spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.’ You may think that ‘in heavenly places’ means when we get to heaven.
The word ‘places’ refers to things in the heavenly realm. In other words, we are destined to be blessed, because God has already blessed us, and the blessings are for right now. God has given us everything pertaining to life and godliness in this life.
God lives in us and has already equipped us with everything in the heavenly realm, to live a victorious, exceptional life, destined for greatness.
So many things about God are about heavenly things even though they operate on this earth. Jesus prayed and taught us to pray that God’s will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10.
As born-again Christians, we have a direct link to God, which gives us special privileges. We see from Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:16-18 and also in 1 Peter 2:9 that we are a chosen generation, called out of darkness through salvation, and set apart.
We don’t have to wait until we get to heaven to experience God’s goodness. We can have it right now here on earth. Let’s just look at some examples of ‘heavenly things’ that God has ordained to operate on earth, to bless us in our daily lives.
>> Salvation is a heavenly thing
Jesus explains that ‘...except a man be born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God …’ John 3:5. Salvation is not a natural but a heavenly thing. It is the foundation of our Christian walk. 6
>> Tithing is a heavenly thing The tithe is a further example. The Bible says that if you tithe the Lord will open up the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing so great that you won’t be able to contain it. Malachi 3:10.
Special Privileges
The hope of His calling referred to in Ephesians 1:17-18 includes all the privileges that He has made available to us – His wisdom, His power, His Word and His promises, all of which are reflections of heaven. Amazing Promises God has made amazing promises for us through the ‘…glorious inheritance…’ that is rightfully ours. Ephesians 1:16-18 AMP. When Paul wrote to the Ephesians on the subject, he would have been fully aware of the inheritance practices that existed at the time.
he drew bigger audiences than Jesse's music band. this year’s Exceptional Women’s Conference, as
EXCEPTIONAL '07
FIND YOUR PATH TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE BY CATHY DUPLANTIS
He wanted the church to understand that the inheritance he was talking about goes far beyond the law and tradition. We are equal joint heirs with Jesus. This is our rich inheritance, sharing all the privileges that are His as saints and children of God. So many of us sabotage our lives with our mouths and miss out on our rich inheritance! We must take our position in Christ and use the promises God has given us. We do this by saying with our mouth and believing with our hearts that we have those things that we say. Mark 11:23-24. Our privilege is that they come to pass. Romans 10:8-9. When we read and believe what God has said, the Holy Spirit will breathe life into us through His Word and then His Word will come out of our mouths and we will change lives, starting with our own household. When His Word comes out of our mouths it is not just us speaking any more: it is His Word, and it will go forth and accomplish what it set out to do. Unlimited Potential When we accept salvation and the Holy Spirit has made the Word become alive to us, we should become aware that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is within us. Once we know and understand this, we will begin to recognise that we have unlimited potential.
‘And [so that you can know and understand] what is the immeasurable {and} unlimited {and} surpassing greatness of His power in {and} for us who believe, as demonstrated in the working of His mighty strength.’ Ephesians 1:19 AMP. We have great, unlimited potential in God, if we will just unleash the power that has already been deposited in us. God has given us His power, so let’s never underestimate our potential – healing power, miracle power, power to raise the dead – there are no limits. If we spend time with God in His Word, we cannot help but have that power coming out of us, because God ‘…is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.’ Ephesians 3:20 KJV. Prepare Yourself for Greatness You will hear many things from the pulpit that will inspire, motivate and teach you, but you also need to sit alone with God and hear from heaven. As you get a revelation of your privileges, God’s promises and your unlimited potential, He will turn your life around. Know that you are destined for greatness, called to be exceptional – and prepare yourself. Your homes, your communities and your nations will be changed. 7
Gerri Di Somma, Senior Minister and founder of carmel: ministries, challenges Christians to consider
WHY THE DEVIL GOES TO The title of this message may shock you, or seem irreverent. Let me reassure you that the evidence that the devil goes to church is not my opinion but God’s. There are references throughout the Bible to support this, with explicit warnings to us - both through the outcome of situations and through clearly expressed directives from the Word of God.
The very reason that God includes these references and teachings is because of His great love for the human race. Heaven was created for all mankind and God wants none to perish. In His infinite compassion He has provided the way to salvation through Jesus, His Son. But just as human parents protect their children from hurt or danger, God also warns us that His adversary, the devil, will stop at nothing to steal us away from Him.
warning so that we do not allow lack of knowledge to cause our destruction.
God has created us with free will to choose our destiny, so it is vitally important that we heed His words of
Yet in this very atmosphere Ananias and Sapphira, members of the church, lied to the Holy Spirit. Acts 5:1-10.
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Jesus was teaching in the synagogue and was interrupted by a man with an unclean spirit who shouted out. Mark 1:21-23. Further on in Acts 4:3, believers gathered together for prayer, experiencing great power as the Holy Spirit filled them.
TEACHING
PRINCIPLES
These accounts leave us in no doubt of the devil’s presence in the church. Before we examine why he goes to church and its relevance to us as Christians, it’s important to recognise certain principles:
01 We must set God’s house in order before we can command order outside God’s house God always operates in divine order Jesus never preached theory alone – He always preached, taught and demonstrated. The Word and the Holy Spirit instruct and equip us to do likewise. In Mark’s description of the first deliverance in Jesus’ ministry, Jesus demonstrated His authority and cast the demon out without a struggle. Mark 1:23-27. Godly order is not to control but to empower It makes way for the Holy Spirit and God’s blessing. Immediately after this deliverance, Jesus healed many sick people and cast out demons from many people; miracles, signs and wonders occurred. Mark 1:29-34.
Godly order prevents chaos and sin Disorder opens the door to the devil – to sin, bitterness, disagreement, resentment, unforgiveness and strife, wherein is every evil work – and all God’s commandments are
violated. Psalm 24:3-4, Psalm 15, Psalm 133, James 3:16, 1 Corinthians 14:40, James 3:16 (AV) 02 The Holy Spirit dwells in God’s house – God’s people, because we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19.
We must have our house in order We must each take personal responsibility to bring and maintain order in our lives and relationship with God. If not, we will be deceived.
The Holy Spirit within us gives us discernment Discernment protects us from the devil’s deception. Deception is so powerfully destructive and is so close to the truth, that we need the Holy Spirit to en able us to discern it.
Satan only shows us the short-term pleasures God however always reveals the long-term consequences to warn us, because He loves us and wants the best for us.
THE ANSWER
SO Why does the devil go to church? Why would any man possessed by demons visit God’s house? Perhaps he wanted help; it may have been through tradition; or perhaps the demon within him led him there because the devil loves religious activity. There are many reasons why the devil goes to church – let’s examine some of them over the page... >>01 The devil is religious
>>02 The devil loves hypocrisy
A.W.Tozer said, ‘The devil is a better theologian than any of us and is a devil still.’ Satan knows the Word of God, but is the father of lies. He uses the Word, twisting and distorting it for his own gain and our destruction, as was his intention when he tempted Jesus. Matthew 4:1-11.
When Christians gather together it should be because we are reconciled to God and we want to honour and focus on Him. When instead we remain preoccupied, talking about, judging or correcting others, uplifting ourselves or thinking about what impression we’re making, our focus is on ourselves – and not on God. Such hypocrisy gives access to the devil. It reminds him of himself.
Adam and Eve did not fulfill God’s full instructions because they were deceived by half truths, as we see when we compare Genesis 2:15-17 with 3:1-5. The devil will use the Word, adding to or subtracting from it, to tempt us. We must make sure our house is in order to safeguard ourselves from this religious deception because the consequences can be far reaching – even fatal.
Hypocrisy reflects Satan’s nature because he can appear outwardly as an angel of light but is inwardly evil. 2 Corinthians 11:14. This deception is what births all false religions and cults. Satan’s religion is false but it is religion nonetheless. False or half-hearted worship, just going through the motions, is also hypocritical. The devil hates Christians worshipping God in spirit and in truth – but is pleased with empty, hypocritical religion. 9
TEACHING
>>Change your focus from yourself to God, living for and glorifying Him. Be so Kingdom-oriented that nothing else matters.<<
>>03 The devil loves to draw attention to himself The devil goes to church to draw attention to himself. When we do this, even though it may be outwardly disguised by apparent spirituality or truth, it is motivated by a desire to worship self and is destructive. The church must be on guard against demonically inspired false gifts and those who come to confuse and confound. All gifts must come in order and with order, to bring God’s order.
Paul warns us against ‘…false apostles, deceitful workers…’ 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 who have already fallen prey to Satan but are nevertheless ministering within God’s house. Keeping our own house in order and asking the Holy Spirit for discernment are essential safeguards less we too are deceived by them. >>05 The devil seeks God’s worship
The demon correctly discerned Christ’s humanity and deity. Mark 1:24. Even demons believe. James 2:18-19. This was the truth, but Jesus discerned this was demonically motivated and commanded the demon to be quiet. We must do the same when distractions or interruptions during preaching God’s Word prevent the Holy Spirit from ministering.
The devil seeks God’s glory, to be worshipped as God. Isaiah 14:12-14. Satan failed all efforts to deceive Jesus into worshipping him.
We must act on our belief, demonstrating our faith. If we become complacent or nonchalant about worship, our relationship with God and its outworking, deception creeps in. The church then accepts falsehood as truth – for example, psychology, evolution or ‘spiritual warfare’ – and we and the church become powerless. 2 Timothy 3:5. God should always take pre-eminence and His Word should always be our reference.
There is an anti-Christ coming. Satan worship will characterise the Great Tribulation and Satan will kill everyone who doesn’t worship him. Revelation 9:20;13:15. We don’t need to fear because the church will be raptured before the Tribulation, but we must put our house in order so we can save as many as we can from suffering it.
>>04 The devil looks for easy prey Satan’s ultimate goal is to have control. He goes to church for easy prey – those who are offended, who gossip, are religious, who don’t have the Holy Spirit within. He can’t possess true followers of Christ but he wants to manipulate us and hinder our faith and work. Satan wants to sift us. Luke 22:31. He can only sift your natural, not your spiritual man. When Jesus was being falsely accused and beaten, Simon Peter reacted in the natural, denying all knowledge of Jesus. He repented, responding in the spirit to God’s correction and later warned the church to be on guard against the devil. 1 Peter 5:8. 110
He now covets God’s greatest treasure – you – and he will entice you with whatever he can, just as he tempted Jesus. Matthew 4:9.
Be found faithful when Christ returns. Shun religion and embrace relationship; reject deception and accept truth. Change your focus from yourself to God, living for and glorifying Him. Be so Kingdom-oriented that nothing else matters. You are God’s greatest treasure. God’s precious Son, Jesus, gave His life to save you from Satan’s destruction. Bring God’s order to every area of your life, love Him with all your heart, all your soul and every fibre of your being; give Him first place in your heart, your life and the church. Then you will not be deceived or captivated by the enemy but will live and reign with God and His Son for all eternity.
TESTIMONIES ‘For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, “Be removed and be cast into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.’ MARK 11:23-24.
PRAYERWORKS And these are just a few of the many testimonies of people who prayed in faith, not doubting – and received what they asked God.
We only had storage heating in our council house. We had approached the council for central heating, but were refused three times. We prayed, trusting Matthew 6:33, ‘Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.’ A week later, we received a letter from the council saying they were going to fit central heating, which is now fully installed. Ian and Mo Walmsley When my son Liam was eighteen months old, he started having fits during his sleep, sometimes lasting an hour. We had to take him to hospital for resuscitation. He was on medication, which wasn’t stopping the fits. The condition was life threatening, but I trusted God for Liam’s healing. Proverbs 18:21 says that life and death are in the power of the tongue. I put him to bed at night praying, ‘I speak life over you, in the name of Jesus.’ Liam is now seven, sleeping in his own bed in his own bedroom. He’s not had a seizure for two years and is due for a medical review. Annie Walker
I came to Bristol, England from Pakistan in 2004 in order to study at carmel: bible college. After completing two years of studies, I applied to attend carmel: leadership academy. I needed an extension of my visa which was due to expire in September 2006. My application for renewal was rejected. Several Bible college students prayed with me and I trusted God. I got the visa – a week earlier than expected – and I am now a student at carmel: leadership academy. Nadeem Sardar Two years ago, we started trying for a family. Eighteen months and no baby later, Pastor Gerri prayed for us according to Genesis 1:22, ‘Be fruitful and multiply.’ Three months later, Clare was at the Empowered Women’s breakfast and received a word from God – that the time to conceive is now. We both immediately trusted that it would happen and started to thank God. The next pregnancy test proved positive. We’re expecting a baby in May 2007. Darrell and Clare Irwin
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AT THIS YEARS EMPOWERED WOMEN'S CONFERENCE, ITS FOUNDER, MICHELLE DI SOMMA, ENCOURAGES LIVING THE EXCEPTIONAL LIFE THROUGH...
ORDEREDSTEPS The process of living an exceptional life begins with salvation, and continues throughout our lives. It requires our will and co-operation to allow the Holy Spirit to empower us. It is not about satisfying our own desires but about fulfilling God’s requirements, walking with Him, in His will and timing.
God’s Word reveals the importance and relevance of ordered steps: God IS PLEASED when we walk with Him ‘The steps of a good man…’- or a good woman ‘…are ordered by the Lord. And He delights in his way.’ Psalm 37:23. God did not create us to go our own way ‘…It is not in man, who walks, to direct his own steps.’ Jeremiah 10:23. The fact that Jeremiah states this warns us of the potential to go our own way. Proverbs 16:9 (OKJ) adds - ‘A man’s heart devises his way…’ Imagination, feelings and intellect drive us in our own direction. In a shopping mall recently our little grandson Max ran off. We called him but he kept running until we ran after him and grabbed his hand. He was directing his own steps and putting himself in danger – which typifies many Christians Only God can effectively direct our steps The Greek for ‘ordered’ and ‘direct’ is the same, meaning to be fashioned, ordained, be prepared, make provision for, set right and established. This is what God desires for us. God directs according to His Word So often Christians make decisions without confirmation from the Word, the Holy Spirit or from others in the body of Christ. People can be deceived into leaving a church, pursuing other ‘great’ prospects, and lives become shipwrecked, because the body is where we function. Ordered steps involve our will and co-operation and there is action that we need to take: >>01 Yield to God God constantly seeks our attention to re-direct us, just as I was doing with Max. To heed my calls, stop running off and let me take his hand, he must learn to yield to my decision. The same applies to us with God – He too wants to hold our hand and lead us. ‘…I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying, “Fear not, I will help you.”’ Isaiah 41:13. There are several principles revealed within this scripture: 12
There is safety in yielding ‘Right hand’ means direction. When we yield to Him and allow Him to order our steps He will hold and keep us in the direction He has ordained. There is security in yielding Some Christians are afraid to yield to God because of what it might cost them. God reassures us that we do not need to fear, because He has made every provision for our security when we trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6. There is help in yielding To yield means to present yourself, to stand beside, to stand by or to stand near, to be at hand. When we yield to God, we present our bodies to Him as living sacrifices. Romans 12.1. Daily, we should present ourselves to God to receive His help, guidance and instructions. >>02 Obey God Romans 6:16 warns, ‘…to whom we present ourselves slaves to obey, those are the ones whose slave we are, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness’. When we disobey God’s commands we walk in unrighteousness unlike the ‘…good (righteous) man’ of Psalm 37:23. When our steps are not ordered by God He cannot delight in our way, so be yielded to life – not death. >>03 Surrender to God Surrender requires completely giving up our desires, plans, positions and everything else in our lives. Often, like our grandson, we are surrendered to our own will, not God’s. It may take crisis to bring change. Concerning the surrendered life, Oswald Chambers writes, ‘We will suffer, sharp painful disillusionment before we fully surrender. When people really see themselves as the Lord sees them, it is not the terribly offensive sins of the flesh that shock them, but the awful nature of the pride of their own hearts which oppose Jesus Christ. When they see themselves in the light of the Lord, the shame, horror and desperate conviction hit home to them. If you are faced with a question of whether or not to surrender, make a determination to go on through this crisis, surrendering all that you have and all that you are to Him. God will then equip you to do all that He requires of you to do.’
Empowered Women
God requires us to: >> >> Change Doing the same old things brings the same results. Surrender whatever needs to change, because God considers rebellion as witchcraft and stubbornness as iniquity (sin) and idolatry (you are on the throne of your own heart, not God). 1 Samuel 15:23. >> Listen – and obey what you hear Just as I had to shout to Max, you may want to hear an audible voice, a prophecy or someone telling you what to do. God’s voice is not forceful but is a still small voice. 1 Kings 19:12. Take time, draw close to Him and listen. We may hear God yet still disobey. When our daughter Sylvana was four she wanted the hairdryer. God said not to
give it to her but I ignored Him. An electric shock from the hairdryer threw her right across the room. I thank God she was not injured – but I had to repent for disobedience. >> Recognise that Christ goes before us God has sent Christ before us, and His footsteps are our pathway, our example to follow. Psalm 85:13. Jesus always had His attention fixed on God and nothing could draw Him away from His calling to fulfill His Father’s will. 1 Peter 4:1-2. Are you willing to live the rest of your life for the will of God? If so, yield and surrender to His wishes, trust Him and live an exceptional, ordered life, full of reward and fulfilment. 13
Steve Lewis and his wife, Gaynor, arrived in Bristol from Wales about 24 years ago following a promotion Kirsty and Matthew and have become active partners in the church. But more than that, since being made carmel: and has taken up a key responsibility in the administration, that of fundraising. Steve, you had an important connection with carmel: before you became partners here, didn’t you? Shortly after they first came to Bristol, Pastors Gerri and Michelle came to minister at the church we were attending at the time and, as a result, I later had the opportunity of travelling to Belarus with Pastor Gerri on a ministry trip. I already had contacts in Russia and the Ukraine because Gaynor and I had been shipping humanitarian aid to churches there since the early nineties. We ran a mission called ‘To Russia With Love.’ But we had no contacts in Belarus then. We now have links with two churches in Belarus and the mission continues. Not long after this trip I became a student at carmel: bible college, graduating in 2000 and Gaynor followed, graduating in 2002. Then came a major shift in your life which had far reaching consequences. Tell us about it. Yes, in 2005 we had been to Kiev and I knew that when we got back it was likely that the bank would make me redundant, which they did. At the same time we had a sense that God was moving us on as far as church was concerned. And there were a whole range of issues that were being reviewed in our life. So we knew that this was all to do with God’s timing for us. And, in short, you landed in carmel: We have been here in carmel: since my first day in the offices in September 2005. I was given a remit that is two-pronged. First, to try and raise funds where possible for the various ministries here. Then, second, to raise the profile of the ministry at large within the business communities and the local authority with its various areas of influence in Bristol. It is important that they can see what we are doing. We wanted to see how we could partner with them and other local groups in relation to our common concern for the well-being of the local community. 14
That’s no small task. How are you tackling this? I quickly found out that there is no set model. I’ve had to do a lot of networking by attending meetings and seminars, going to conferences and generally taking every opportunity that might, at the end of the day, lead me to the people who are in a position to help, or at least guide me to the significant players in the field of funding. There’s been a lot of correspondence and I’ve spent a lot of time doing research through whatever means and resources are available. Some recent funding we received was the direct result of going to a conference and then engaging with the regional manager of a bank, not the one I had worked for though. I invited him to carmel: to see what we were doing and the funding was the outcome. However, I have to say that getting funding is quite difficult and it takes considerable effort to source the funders who may consider us suitable subjects for their trust money. Are there specific reasons for this being difficult? The main one is that the funder sets strict criteria which if you cannot meet or cannot prove you can meet, then you are not considered; it’s as simple as that. Many funders don’t want their money to have connection with anything they consider religious, however fine a work you are doing. And of course there are the times when there are too many applicants for the money available. But being a Christian organisation does present its own problems.
INTERVIEW
at the bank where he worked. Now they worship at carmel: with their two children, redundant from the bank, Steve has become a vital member of the volunteer team at
Is there any way around this? We have to look at how we present these programmes. Our commitment as a faith based community and in terms of the vision at carmel: is constant. We will not compromise our beliefs or our practice as a church. It is a delicate situation and we are slowly working through it. So our presentation may have to be revised, but we are here to serve the community, and this is where we must connect with the funders. Do you suppose that the local authorities and professional community are now more aware of carmel:?
Are you saying, then, that carmel: is in a better position now to fulfil its vision in the area? The civic community certainly recognises the potency of what we have here. Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives are clearly being changed as a result of coming into contact with the various ministries at carmel:. The need in South Bristol is vast and it presents great challenges, and will do so for a long time to come. But when the final chapter is written, I know that carmel: ministries international will have made a major impact in the region and will have formed a model to take forward into other cities in this nation and beyond.
Many of the executive leadership of the council and other key players certainly are. At this time we are in negotiation with the leader of the city council to be involved in the formulation of a Master Plan for South Bristol. We, too, have a passion to regenerate the area with appropriate services. So it would be fair to say that it looks as if carmel: will engage as a full partner and help establish the regeneration plan and through the process be able to provide services to the community that will help with the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regeneration.
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DAY TWO SATURDAY 16:06:07 10:00HRS – 12:00HRS 14:00HRS – 16:00HRS 18:30HRS – 20:30HRS
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EVENTS
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GRADUATION 7TH JULY 2007
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Get fired up and equipped with the power to overcome every obstacle. Learn to live life to the max – make it a mission incredible. This message will impact you in 4 sessions...
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Challenges, pressures, temptations, responsibilities, decisions…Does your life sometimes seem like a mission impossible? Here’s your ticket to a mission incredible – a two day happening for young people.
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OPEN DAY L BIBLE CO 25TH JUNE 2007
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