A Magazine about Miracles and Good Christian Living
Edition 2
DOCTOR DOCTOR Dr. Zhinelle Pillay Talks About Obesity
HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER God’s Grace and Mercies Even When We Don’t Deserve It
Phil 4:13 God Does The Impossible For Michelle
BIBLE BASED
00 S 0 5 PIE CO
AVAILABLE EVERY TWO MONTHS. FREELY DISTRIBUTED MAGAZINE
CONTENTS MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES 1 2 9 10 16 20 24
God’s Prosperity Testimony Touched by an Angel Surrender His love endures forever Testimony Wall I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me Dreams fulfilled through Christ
MOTIVATION AND INSPIRATION 3 14 8
Every cloud has a silver lining Christlikeness Men of God
LIFESTYLE 4 6
Doctor Doctor Winter gardens & Pets
REVIEWS 22
Book & Music
YOUTH 12 23
Fathers love letter Faith Builder
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IN Z GA ! A R M FREE U O IS
ABOUT US
• We relate stories of hope and good news • We act as a catalyst for Christians to unite and speak as one • We are not affiliated to any church, pastor, organisation or denomination but are a BIBLE BASED Christian magazine • We will not promote any particular church or pastor • We seek to relate miracles and testimonies that have been experienced by our fellow Christians • We want to unite Christian businesses and help them grow by offering affordable advertising • We provide a platform for Christians to thank God for their prosperity in life • We plan to start and operate one of the largest feeding schemes in Durban
WE WELCOME ALL BUSINESSES TO LIST IN “KINGDOM MARKETPLACE” OUR BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Team work makes the dream work.....
Editor Ashiqui Haripersad
Legal oversight Tashya Giyapersad & Associates
Design and layout Nathi Ngubane
Writers
Kirsten Kelly
Financial oversight
Rish Sundraj
Distribution Andre Pouleyn
www.godsprosperity.co.za
facebook.com/godsprosperitymag
MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
OPEN DOORS TO GOD’S PROSPERITY God’s prosperity testimony The team at God’s Prosperity Magazine would like to thank God for making this magazine possible. Recently we have come against many trials and tribulations in seeing this magazine come to fruition but God was merciful and saw us through it all. We never thought that we would be able to release the magazine as a hard copy and at first we were just going to leave it available digitally but
God saw our hearts in this. Not only did He make it possible for us to have 5000 copies printed but He also provided the finance for us to do so. We would like to thank the people who have supported us from the beginning and of course give all glory to Jesus for making all of this possible. He has shown us that with consistent prayer and faith in Him, nothing is
impossible. Continue sharing your miracles and testimonies with us. As a band of believers we should strive to motivate, inspire and provide hope for our brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus. The God’s Prosperity Team.
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MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL
W
hen Angel arrived at St Thomas’ Children’s Home, they were certain she would not live to see another day. There were obvious signs of malnutrition, her frail body screamed of neglect and she was HIV+. She was severely underdeveloped and though she was already 4 years old she was unable to carry out the simplest of tasks that a child of her age should be able to perform effortlessly. She was unable to walk. She was unable to talk. There was barely any life left in her and it broke the hearts of those caring for her. The moment little Angel was carried through the doors and into her new home, the staff at St Thomas fell
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in love with her. They all worked tirelessly to make sure she got the best care possible. Many nights were spent in prayer, earnestly petitioning God to strengthen Angel’s fragile bones and breathe life into her ailing body. Slowly but surely Angel began to improve. Each day the staff began to see life returning to her body until that wonderful day when she was finally able to call out their names. Today Angel is a completely different girl from the one she was eight months ago. She walks and talks and interacts well with her new family at St Thomas’ Children Home. She has been transformed by the prayers and hard-working staff at St Thomas’s children’ s home who continue to demonstrate God’s love to her every day.
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MOTIVATION AND INSPIRATION
EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING Tabisa Dlamini
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hy did I put all my money into this? Is this going to work? God, do you hear me? I’m so scared. How will I pay all these people? Why did I do this? I can’t pay my rent, they are going to repossess my car...
church, give his mother some money, pay his rent (which was two months behind), settle his car debt and live happily ever after. He was so sure that It was all going to be alright. He had prayed and done all he thought was necessary.
The year was 1992 in July. All these questions were crowding his mind. He was a 22 year old wannabe...But what he wanted to be he did not know. All he knew was that he had written his play about adult survivors of child abuse and wanted the world to see It. He was so sure that It was going to work that he put all his money into the show.
He was expecting 1200 people but only 30 people showed up. He was devastated he thought his world had come to an end. Little did he realise back then that had he advertised his show well enough he might have had more people than the 30 that showed up. He had a cloud hanging over his head, people to pay, bills to pay with no money as all his savings went into the show. He quickly realised that prayer alone will not always get you the results you want. More work was needed to go along with faith. Needless to say this year he celebrates 20 years in the show business. The man we all love and some of us aspire to be like: Tyler Perry.
He worked as a used car salesman and a bill collector and saved his money. He took that money, hired a cast, built a set and rented a very small theatre. He had done all the math in his head: He was going to perform 6 shows, 200 people per show for a total of 1200.The tickets were $12 and he was going to make $14000 and be rich! Or so he thought. He was going to pay his tithe to the
children, ministry, profession whatever It is you can’t give up because It didn’t work out the first time. When you find yourself in that situation know this; every cloud has a silver lining, The silver lining might be thinner than the cloud but find the silver lining and turn the situation to work out for your good. What you must understand is that the good, the bad, the ugly, It all works together for your good. If you love the Lord and are called according to his purpose (Rom8v28) What’s his purpose for you? If you are not sure seek It and all your dreams will come true. To all the dreamers, all the people who have the same questions as Tyler Perry had know this YOU CAN DO IT!!! Based on a true story.b
So many people abandon their dreams because it didn’t work out. If its business, marriage,
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LIFESTYLE
DOCTOR DOCTOR! Dr Zhinelle Pillay
The secret to getting ahead is getting started, and there is no better time to begin weight control than now. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a useful guide in determining the extra pounds we need to shed. Health authorities worldwide mostly agree that: 1. People with a BMI of less than 18.5 are underweight. 2. A BMI of between 18.5 and 25 is ideal. 3. Somebody with a BMI between 25 and 30 is classed as overweight. 4. A person with a BMI over 30 is obese. Top 3 causes of obesity: 1. Consuming too many calories, 2. Leading a sedentary lifestyle. With the arrival of televisions, computers, video games, dishwashers and other modern convenience devices, the
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majority of people are leading a much more sedentary lifestyle compared to their parents and grandparents. 3. Not sleeping enough. Sleep deprivation may lead to obesity through increased appetite as a result of hormonal changes. If you do not sleep enough you produce ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite. Lack of sleep also results in your body producing less leptin, a hormone that suppresses appetite.
1. Bone and cartilage degeneration (Osteoarthritis). Obesity is an important risk factor for osteoarthritis in most joints, especially at the knee joint. 2. Coronary heart disease. Obesity carries the penalty of an associated adverse cardiovascular risk profile. 3. Gallbladder disease
significant risk factor for gallstones. 4. High blood pressure (Hypertension). 5. Respiratory problems. Obesity can also cause respiratory problems. Breathing is difficult as the lungs decrease in size and the chest wall becomes very heavy and difficult to lift. 6. Stroke. Rising obesity rates have been linked to more strokes among women aged 35 to 54. 7. Type 2 diabetes One of the strongest risk factors for type 2 diabetes is obesity, and this is also one of the most modifiable as it can be partially controlled through
Being overweight is a
diet and exercise.
Some health risks associated with obesity:
LIFESTYLE
Treatments: Obesity treatments have two objectives: 1. To achieve a healthy weight. 2. To maintain that healthy weight. The more you move your body the more calories you burn. I believe that any weight loss is 90% diet and 10 % exercise, yet we require that exercise to keep our hearts beating well for the sake of overall wellness and longevity. Prevention is better than cure. I urge our young readers to take time out of your busy schedules for yourself and well-being. 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week, will keep you looking and feeling young for decades to come. To our older readers, it’s never too late, brisk walking, walking in the
swimming pool- which serves as resistance training can heal those undiagnosed pains.
My top 5 veggies: 1. Broccoli 2. Asparagus 3. Spinach 4. Salad greens 5. Tomatoes
My top 5 fruit: 1. Grapefruit 2. Apples 3. Blueberries 4. Canteloupe 5. Oranges
Here are some worthwhile tips: Add just one fruit or veggie serving daily to your diet. When you are feeling nibblish, learn to have a glass of water. When dining out, make it
automatic: Order one dessert to share, use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate, instead of full-fat milk, switch to skim. If you drink one 350 ml glass a day, you’ll lose 2 kg in a year. Juice has as many kilojoules as soft drink. Set a limit of one glass of fruit juice a day. Get kilojoules from foods you chew, not drinks. Have fresh fruit instead of fruit juice. Keep a food diary. It really works wonders for healthy weight loss. Follow the Chinese saying: “Eat until you are eight-tenths full.”
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LIFESTYLE
WINTER GARDENS Winter is generally associated with colourless gardens and plants that look droopy and neglected. The best way to add colour to your garden is to include winter flowers and bedding plants.
These will need to be planted in autumn so that you can experience the most vibrant garden during the winter months. Long winter nights can be a dangerous time for plants.
Potted plants are more needy than plants that are planted in the ground because the root systems of potted plants are more vulnerable to the warmth of the ground. The most effective way to protect these plants from the cold is to place your pots closer to your home, group them together or plant them into them into the ground.
PETS The average domestic pet can provide us with many relaxing benefits. Pets help us cope with loneliness, reduce stress, encourage exercise and most importantly, they provide us with unconditional love and affection. Studies have shown that people with pets have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than people without pets. Heart attack patients with pets survive longer than those without pets, and playing with a pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax you. There has always been a conception that pets can aggravate allergies, eczema and asthma however, being exposed to pets during infancy may mean less chance of developing such reactions in adulthood.
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SINNER’S PRAYER Overwhelmed with Sin? Seeking repentance? Haven’t proclaimed Jesus as YOUR saviour!? Samuel 12:1-25 David tried to hide his sin from God. He committed adultery with Bathsheba. God saw his sin and punished him. David’s son die as a result. David suffered the consequences of sin. 1 John 5:10 God forgives our Sins. John offered reassurance and hope to Christians. If we can say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, he will forgive our sins. Heavenly Father I come to you in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your son, And that he died on the cross at Calvary that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask you right now to come into my life and be my personal Lord and Saviour. I repent of my Sins and will worship you all the days of my life! Because your word is truth, I confess with my mouth that I am born Again and cleansed by the blood of Jesus! Amen
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MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
MEN OF GOD
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PETER: FROM FISHERMAN TO FISHER OF MEN
ooking out into the absolute darkness of the night, fear gripped every one of the 12 disciples’ hearts as they rowed relentlessly against the rough waves and merciless wind. They looked straight ahead and, paralysed with fear, they screamed, “it is a ghost!” What is faith? The Bible says that faith is a substance of things hoped for and the assurance of things unseen (Hebrews 11:1). That night, Jesus showed the 12 disciples that faith can make impossible things possible. As the disciples realised that it was not a ghost but Jesus walking towards them, they were astounded and overwhelmed. Peter even asked Jesus to prove Himself. Peter walked on the water to Jesus, and as long as he focused on Jesus, he was able to walk on the water. This is a perfect illustration of how our faith should be as Christians. Our focus should never waver from Him or we will be en-
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gulfed by the ocean and tossed around by the boisterous winds. Peter, who used to be Simon, got his new name from Jesus. It meant “rock” (Matthew 16:18). Prior to following Jesus, Peter was a hot-headed, impulsive and temperamental man. Once he started to follow Jesus, he changed his entire lifestyle- dedicating his entire life to Jesus. This is the example we should be following as men and women of Christ- all old habits and characteristics should die as we focus on Jesus and follow Him. In John 21:15-17, Jesus repeatedly asks Peter if he loves Him and Peter answers “yes” everytime. The reason for Jesus saying “feed My lambs” is because when someone enters the Kingdom of God, they need to be “fed” and they are still young in the Lord, so they are “lambs.” The reason for Jesus saying “tend My sheep,” is because people need to be taken care of, and accounted for, in the Kingdom. When Jesus said “feed My sheep,” He meant that the people need to be fed with
the Word of God, which is the bread of life. Peter is an example of your typical person on the street. He just exists until he comes to the knowledge of Christ. Peter shows us how faith has the power to carry you in times of need, as it carried him across the water to Jesus. Peter was arrested 7 times in Jerusalem because of his faith. Today, we don’t face anything as serious as this because we have the grace of freedom of religion, so we have no excuse not to spread the gospel and practice our faith. Being baptised means surrendering everything to Jesus, no if’s and but’s. The time has come for us to walk in faith like Peter did, no compromises! When we were dead in the world, we did things of the world and to us, it was acceptable but now, in Christ we should strive to be like Him. “But in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15)
MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
SURRENDER By Jureldo Appanna
I
went through a phase where God allowed my life to come to a complete standstill. There was no work. I received no phone calls and I could not sleep at night. This bad patch continued for three consecutive weeks. My doctor told me that I was headed for a nervous breakdown. I was not a devoted Christian at the time, a ‘backslider’ as one would say.
Then one morning around 2am, I was in the kitchen and sensed the presence of the Lord. I heard the voice of the Lord asking me: “You’ve been in and out of church, who am I to you?” At that moment I thought to myself; I’ve tried doing everything my way and nothing worked out. There after I felt a sense of surrender. I answered: “You are my God; You are the one that I give my life to.” Ever since I’ve completely surrendered to Jesus and am fully back in the kingdom, I’ve been abundantly blessed.
In the month of June I was honoured to be endorsed and sponsored by Mercury Music S.A, I’ve also opened my own music company. The moral of my story: God can make big miracles out of little ideas. Don’t be afraid to think big but start small. I dedicate my life to my Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 12:12) “We have around us many people whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way, and from the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the one who began our faith and who makes it perfect.”b
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MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
HIS LOVE ENDURES
FOREVER
Kumaran Sivalingam - Chatsworth -
I
have been through some very difficult things in my life; some have been the consequences of my own actions, some have not. But at the end of it all there is one thing I can say with certainty; the Lord our God is a good God and I will praise Him
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till the end of my days. I can say this now, however; for many years I was a stranger to God. I believe that what we can see and what we can touch is all there is. I was totally unaware of a God in heaven, whose mighty hand never ceased to preserve my life. You see,
I didn’t start this life well. Looking back I can see that it is often the small, seemingly insignificant choices that can lead us down a road towards destruction. For me that choice was a can of beer. Before I knew it, that can of beer had turned into hard liquor, seven days a week. But it didn’t stop there. The liquor quickly turned into drugs and under the influence of these substances I became a violent and aggressive person who few wanted to know. One particular night, I was drunk, staggering home from a nightclub and looking for a fight. It didn’t take me long to find one. I can’t remember even how it started but I soon found myself arguing with a man on the street. Things quickly escalated and the man pulled a gun on me. I was frightened for my life. Yet, somehow even in my drunken state I managed to get out of the situation. I truly
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believe God’s hand of protection was upon me and amazingly I escaped unharmed. Unfortunately that was not the only time I came face to face with a gun. One evening, I was at home relaxing with friends when all of a sudden several armed men barged into my home. Fear gripped me and I thought surely this is it! Surely my luck has run out! As they ransacked the house I silently prayed to God that He would save us. I hoped He heard me as they bundled us all into my friend’s van and sped off. We had no idea what they were going to do with us. My mind was racing with many terrible scenarios, none of which I hoped would come to pass. Thanks be to God none of them did! Eventually without harming a hair on our heads they dropped us off. I am so thankful that once again God protected me from any serious harm.Yet there is one particular
day that I will never forget and I want to tell you about. My friends and I had been fishing in West Durban and we caught a lift home on a coal train. When it came to our stop we had to alight while the train was still in motion. Tragically I did not throw myself far enough from the train and my body tumbled beneath it. My legs, caught between the train and the tracks, were immediately severed from my body. I remained conscious as the train continued on its journey. My body trembled with shock and though in that moment I felt no pain a strange heat flooded my body. Straight away, my friend called for an ambulance. I remember his distant voice as I lay by the track observing one of my legs, shoe still on, now separate from my body.
me into the hospital, the first thing I saw was my sister’s concerned face waiting for me. From that moment on, through six operations, many blood transfusions, all the pain and despair, she was by my side and I thank God for her everyday. The truth is I could have died that day and though today I am confined to a wheelchair I know that God has continued to preserve my life for a purpose. I want my life to display his glory and declare this truth; from even the darkest of situations He can bring life, hope and joy. Once, I was going nowhere fast; lost in the throes of alcohol and drug abuse. Now I have been set free and I know for sure that there is a God in heaven who, no matter what, will take care of me. b
The ambulance soon arrived and after the paramedics stabalised me they took me to the nearest hospital. As the paramedics wheeled
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YOUTH
FATHER’S LOVE LETTER My Child, You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1 I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Psalm 139:2 I am familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3 Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31 For you were made in my image. Genesis 1:27 In me you live and move and have your being. Acts 17:28 For you are my offspring. Acts 17:28 I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5 I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12 You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139:15-16
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I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17:26
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33
I knit you together in your mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11
And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71:6 I have been misrepresented by those who don’t know me. John 8:41-44
Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jeremiah 31:3 My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore. Psalms 139:17-18
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4:16
And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 John 3:1
I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32:40
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1 I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Matthew 7:11
For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5 I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul.
And I want to show you great and marvellous things. Jeremiah 33:3 If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29 Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 For it is I who gave you those desires. Philippians 2:13 I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20 For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 When you are broken-hearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34:18 As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Revelation 21:3-4
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love. Romans 8:31-32
And I’ll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Revelation 21:3-4
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. 1 John 2:23
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. John 17:23 For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26 He is the exact representation of my being. Hebrews 1:3 He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. Romans 8:31 And to tell you that I am not counting your sins. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again. Romans 8:38-39 Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen. Luke 15:7 I have always been Father, and will always be Father. Ephesians 3:14-15 My question is… Will you be my child? John 1:12-13 I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32 Love, Your Dad Almighty God
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MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
“Christlikeness” What is meant by “Christlikeness”?
Our ultimate goal in life should be to live a life as close to Christ as possible. The life of Christ was the perfect example of how to live a life that pleases God. As women, it is easy to get swept up in the world today-looking after your kids, husband, home and building a career...life becomes very demanding and we are quick to forget how to be Christlike. We forget to walk in humility as we build our careers and become uncompassionate as the cruel world takes shots us, but always remember-to be like Christ is your goal. Think as Christ would and act as Christ would. Let your light shine before men so that they will glorify your Father in Heaven ( Matthew 5:16): Christlikeness begins with humility, for this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an examples, that you should follow His steps (1 Peter 2:21). “Wives, likewise be submissive to your husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they live without a word, maybe not by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Do not let your adornment be merely outwardly-arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel-rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God(Peter 3:1-4).
PRAYER NUGGET The failer to return thanks for a definite blessing is a manifestation of ingratitude and grieves Jesus Christ
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R.A Torrey
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
IMMORALITY . Jessica was the most attractive and popular girl on campus. Perhaps it was her sultry eyes…her figure…or her playful smile. But Tom was so smitten and could not take his eyes off her. Tom turned on the charm and soon the two started dating. Tom went out of his way to impress her, taking her to fancy restaurants and buying her expensive gifts. Every time Tom spent more and more time with Jessica he wanted more. He became more persistent and Jessica would hold back. Tom told Jessica “If you really love me, you would not ask me to stop!” Jessica naively gave in. Soon after she found out that she was pregnant. Jessica’s parents were extremely disappointed and wrote her off, for bringing disgrace to the family. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 “God wants you to be Holy and stay away from sexual sins. He wants each of you to learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honourable. Don’t use your body for sexual sin like the people who do not know God. Also, do not wrong or cheat another Christian in this way. The Lord will punish people who do those things as we have already told you and warned you. God called us to be holy and does not want us to live in sin.” Scriptures to read over: Matthew 5:27-30 Colossians 3:5-6 Job 31:1 .
SERENITY PRAYER God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time. Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; taking, as He did, this sinful world. As it is, not as I would have it; trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His will; that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next. Amen.
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TESTIMONY WALL
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TESTIMONY WALL
I have b e doing o en staying at h dd jobs ome an for the d This yea p a st 4yea r, God g r s. a ve to go to Univers me a chance ity and someth m ing out of myse ake thankfu l for tha lf. I am t. - Sand ile Khw ela
ng his heali g in y la od for o has I thank G my mother wh l er t hospita a d hand ov e g r a n disch ome. now bee ring at h e v o c e e r and Nguban lo le e ik s - Nont
life, for ank God for th to e k li d ncI’ r second cha fo d n a s e k mista next ut on parole o e b l il w I . es u. andile Ndlov week. - Mzw
for giving me I’d like to thank God I am is by his a praying family, all through prayer. devine intervention e - Aphelele Mtukush
I thank God for choosin me and g setting me apa His love r t. keeps m e going - Mandi . Mbhens e
Thank you God for giving me new parents, please take care of mum, dad and gran in heaven. - Ester Orton
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MIRACLES AND TESTiMONIES
I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH
CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME I
had always been a self-sufficient, independent and strong woman so when I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis - a condition that causes scarring in the lungs, which in turn makes it increasingly hard to breath, I was devastated. My life changed dramatically and almost overnight I became a shadow of who I used to be: helpless, weak and totally dependent upon others to help me perform the simplest of tasks. Worse still was the prognosis. Unless I received a lung transplant, the chances of which were rare at best, I would certainly die. However, I refused to give up hope! I come from a strong Christian family heritage and whenever problems arose in our lives we knew to run straight into the arms of God. So that is exactly what I did. While God did not instantly heal me I know that He was always right by my side, quietening my fears and giving me the daily strength I needed to carry on. He also demonstrated His great love through His church, not only here in South Africa, but worldwide. I was overwhelmed by the many people
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that took time out of their own lives to visit me or write a letter, offering words of kindness and hope in times when I needed it most. There were also many who, through prayer and fasting, forged war on my behalf, relentless in their fight for my full recovery. I thank God for all those amazing people who when my faith was weak upheld me before the Lord. For while I always believed that this sickness was only a phase that God would bring me through, there were other times when my situation seemed so bleak that any future seemed impossible! It was during one of those times, when I found myself in hospital yet again that God reminded me that absolutely nothing is impossible for Him. My condition had severely deteriorated and truthfully it was not a great surprise when the Doctor came to my bedside and told me there was nothing more they could do. Inwardly, I cried out to God. I couldn’t endure it any more and I laid
Share your Miracles and Testimonies with us
myself bare before Him. There seemed to be only three viable options and I was not afraid to tell Him what I thought they were! The first, He must perform a miracle in my body and set me free from my prison. The second, He must give me a brand new set of lungs. The third, He must take me home to be with Him. I did not have to wait long for Him to answer. Two hours later another Doctor entered my hospital room and started performing some tests. I found this confusing having only just been told that there was no more they could do for me and so I asked, “What are you doing?” ‘Haven’t you heard?’ The Doctor replied. ‘We’ve found you new lungs!’ Had I heard right? Was it true? The Doctor assured me that it was. The actual chances of a donor, a recipient and a surgeon all being in the same place was so rare that there was no doubting God’s divine hand in it all.
The next morning I was taken into surgery and received my miracle new lungs. I have to admit I went into that operating theatre believing that everything would simply start getting better from there on in. However that was not exactly how things panned out. There were many times over the next few months where my life continued to hang in the balance. But I knew my new lungs were a miracle gift from God and I was not going to let go of the second chance at life he was giving me. Today I can tell you that I am well on my way to recovery. Of course, life will never be the same again. I will have to take medication for the rest of my life. Yet the changes in my life have not all been bad. Through all the pain, the confusion and the uncertainty, I have known my heavenly Father right by my side, holding my hand and wiping away my tears. I know the depths of His love in a way that I never could have before and I would not exchange that for anything.
He had answered my prayers. He had made the impossible possible! Had I heard right? Was it true? The Doctor assured me that it was. He had answered my prayers. He had made the impossible possible! Share your Miracles and Testimonies with us
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REVIEWS
MUSIC Album: Glorious Ruins Artist: Hillsong United Released: July 2013 “Let the ruins come to life In the beauty of Your name Rising up from the ashes God forever You reign” The twenty-second album in the live praise and worship series by Hillsong Church. This remarkable Album was recorded live in London, England and Sydney by the Hillsong Worship team from around the world. This album is a must have for every person whose life revolves around the praise and worship of our Mighty God.
Book Title: Unfailling Love Author: Marie Allan Publisher: CreateSpace Independant Publishing Platform An inspirational story that is told with honesty and conviction. Marie Allan’s life story is full of hardships but her love affair with Jesus lets her survive all the trials that her journey brings her. Unfailing Love is a must read for those who are going through difficult phases in their lives. I admire her bravery in spilling the most intimate and painful details of her life in order to help others.
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YOUTH
FAITH BUILDER w
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7)
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Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones. (Proverbs 3:7-8)
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By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.
(Proverbs 13:10) w
The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way, but the folly of fools is deceit. (Proverbs 14:8)
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The ear that hears the rebukes of life will abide among the wise. He who disdains instruction despises his own soul, but he who heeds rebuke gets understanding. The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and before honour is humility. (Proverbs 15:31-33) A man of great wrath will suffer punishment; for if you rescue him, you will have to do it again. Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days. (Proverbs 19:19-20)
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A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back.
(Proverbs
29:11) w
The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. w
(Psalm 37:30-31)
Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom. (Psalm 51:6) w
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5) w
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. (James 3:17) w
Because the Foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. (1 Corinthians 1:25) Advertise your business with us
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MIRACLES AND TESTIMONIES
DREAMS FULFILLED THROUGH
CHRIST
I
By Dr Grace Baruth
always loved to study. Even as a young child I dreamed of going to university and one day becoming a Doctor. Looking back I believe that this desire came from God even though I did not know Him at the time. The problem is I was not the smartest of students and my dream was not encouraged. Most people thought I was reaching beyond my capabilities and without another more positive voice speaking into my life I believed they must be right. Sadly, I let my dream fall by the wayside. I got on with living what everyone expected from me - an average life. Thankfully, at the age of 20 I came to know Jesus Christ as my saviour and Lord. I soon discovered that His plans for me were
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anything but average. My dream was reactivated and this time He was the one championing me and drowning out all the negative voices from the past. Despite a significant lack of funds to even start studying I dared to believe that God would make a way for me and He didn’t fail. Time after time, as I chose to put God first in my life He faithfully provided for me and has given me the desires of my heart. Today, after many years of perseverance, determination and a unwavering hope in Christ I have gained a doctorate in education. I know that without God in my life I would not be where I am today. He believed in me when others did not. He knew what I was capable of and all that I could achieve. Since giving my life to the Lord He has taken me on an amazing
adventure. I have done things and been to places I never could have without Him. I have travelled to 18 states in India telling people about Jesus. In August I will make a trip to Nairobi and later in the year, Pakistan. It says in the Bible, ‘Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.’ I know this is true because it has happened in my life and if you give Him a chance, the same could be true for yours.
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Wants you to share your
miracles and testimonies with Durban. How to write your miracle or testimony ? Step 2: Step 1: Remember to emphasise God, not yourself.
How do you see God’s intervention?
Step 3:
How has it increased your faith?
Wait for us to contact you!
Talk about what is significant about your testimony and what it reveals about God.
What were your thoughts and emotions before everything happened?
When and where did it happen?
What were your thoughts and emotions during the time everything happened?
What exactly happened? Did it happen over a long period of time or instantaneously? Provide as many details as possible.
Be specific about how it has changed your life!
We will contact you to get more details about your Godly encounter which we will either put it in our magazine or on our Facebook wall. Share your testimony to motivate and inspire your brothers and sisters in Christ!
What is remarkable about this?
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DISTRIBUTION Dear readers. We at God’s Prosperity would like to take this opportunity first and foremost to thank our Lord, Saviour and Managing Editor, Jesus Christ, without whom this issue would not have been possible. We also need to thank you, dear reader, for taking the time out of your hectic schedule to spend a few minutes with God’s Prosperity. God’s Prosperity was blessed to be given the opportunity to present our First Edition to over 250 pastors in the Durban area. God bless you all for your faithfulness. We look forward to a long and productive relationship. We are pleased to announce that the South Basin, Chatsworth and Phoenix pastor fraternities will assist in the distribution of the magazine. The team is also extremely excited to present our newest member, Kumaran Sivalingam, whose amazing testimony can be found on page 10. God’s Prosperity has provided a computer and internet connection to Kumuran, who will be in charge of our social media output from the comfort of his home; Welcome aboard! Our hope and prayer as an editorial team, is that this magazine, in whatever small a way, reminds us all of the Goodness of God’s heart, and the obligation and privilege we all share as Christians, to be living testimonies to His grace. . God indeed is good, as through his grace, we have also managed to secure dedicated distribution assistance from Shell Florida Motors in Morningside, and Emmanuel Christian Bookroom in Chatsworth. ‘til next issue, God bless you all
Shell Florida Motors 031 312 4911
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07-brm-shell motors
180 Florida Road Morningside, Durban
ADOPT A HOME Please contact us to donate to EDITH BENSON CHILDREN’ HOME 083 789 5698 info@godsprosperity.co.za
The Edith Benson Babies’ Home can accommodate up to 60 children, 48% of whom are currently HIV-positive. A special care unit caters for 15 new-borns and HIV-positive children who have not yet been stabilized. Volunteer doctors and the local provincial hospital and clinics provide medical assistance to the children, and training and support to the staff. Speech and hearing therapy, as well as dermatology and physiotherapy are provided for the children when necessary. We are always in need of food, clothes, school equipment, toys, medical supplies and any other goods that may help us to help others. These goods can be dropped at any of our centres or homes. Alternatively, should you wish to make a monetary donation, please follow the directions below.
Bank: Absa Account name: God’s Prosperity Media Pty Ltd Account number: 4079446752 Branch code: 632005
A Magazine about Miracles and Good Christian Living
Sow a seed to the print version of our magazine and help us to motivate, inspire and educate fellow Christians We invite you to share your miracles and testimonies with us and give thanks to our Great God for all he has blessed us with!
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