Grace His
September 2019
Photo by Rob Wood
Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland & Labrador
Serving from Coast to Coast
Page 2
Table of Contents His Grace Magazine
September 2019
"...But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!" Joshua 24:15
Publisher's Corner...............................................................Page 4, 5 CD in Review......................................................................Page 6 Poetry Page.........................................................................Page 7 Wedding Announcement.....................................................Pages 8, 9 Athletes for Christ...............................................................Page 11 Walking with Jesus.............................................................Page 12, 13 Racing with Christ..............................................................Page 14 Featured Artist.....................................................................Page 16 Recipe Page.........................................................................Page 17 Bible Study.........................................................................Page 18 In Concert............................................................................Page 19 Movie in Review.................................................................Page 21 Book in Review...................................................................Page 23
To advertise in His Grace Magazine, call Rob
905-380-4489
September 2019
chri.ca/app
His Grace Magazine
Page 3
His Grace Magazine
Page 4
Publisher's Corner...
September 2019
Fruits of the Spirit
Owner/Publisher: Rob Wood
Faithfulness W
hat does faithfulness mean to you? Maybe it means helping your kids every night with schoolwork, or helping your mom and dad with chores, or just being there for a friend. Maybe it means helping others in need, or being faithful in a relationship. I think it's all of these and so much more. I would like to touch on a couple of these right now. First, is my relationship with my new wife, Donna, also the editor here at His Grace Magazine. We were married on August 20th of this year, after two years of being in a relationship. In faithfulness to God's word, we waited until we were married to become intimate. Genesis 2:24 says, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." We met on a Christian dating site called CDFF, and our first date was August 20, 2017. It was as if we had known each
other all of our lives; we felt God's hand in our relationship right from the beginning and we know He is still guiding us. Was our relationship easy? No, we had challenges along the way; for one thing we were in two different provinces, so we saw each other only one or two times during the year. We texted each other two to three times a day, we prayed, read the Bible and just talked on the phone. So it wasn't easy, but it was so worthwhile because during that time, we built a solid relationship...what a blessing God brought upon us. We married exactly two years from the day that we had our first date, and I'm so thankful to God and what He has done for us. For Donna and me, we will serve the Lord as Joshua 24:25 says: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." The other relationship of faithfulness I want to talk about is my relationship and walk with Jesus Christ. I go to Him during the day in prayer and I know He meets me there every time. When we live our lives for Him, He will never leave us nor forsake us. Do you completely trust God? Do you trust Him so much that you live the way He commands you, to the point where He is able to trust you also? Jesus is going to return one day soon, and wouldn't it be amazing to hear Him say, "Well done, my good and faithful
servant." He is faithful to us always, as Hebrews 13:8 says: "He is the same yesterday, today and forever." God gives us different gifts, abilities and opportunities, and He does expect us to use them for His service. God will and does abundantly reward us for being faithful to Him. But those who know God's will, yet refuse to obey, or decide to just wait are considered "Unprofitable Servants". They waste their talents and gifts given to them by God. As the Bible says in Matthew 25:26: "But his lord answered and said to him, "You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed." The main feature of that parable is the fact that one day very soon, Jesus will be returning; He will be rewarding all of His faithful servants who truly believe in God and live according to His word. Matthew 25:21 says, "Well done, good and faithful servant, you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord." It is important that we do what the Lord tells us. 1 Peter 4:10 says, "Each of you should use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
Publisher's Corner...
Self-Control W
e have to have selfcontrol, but it's almost impossible to achieve this on our own. Self-control is the last fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23 says: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." The fruit of the Spirit is a change in us that is done by the Holy Spirit who is always working in us. We cannot become a Christian on our own accord; we also cannot grow spiritually on our own...we need help in that area. As Philippians 2:13 says: "For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure." For every good deed we do, it is the fruit of the Spirit that is working in our lives to help us reach that goal. Self-control is the ability to control yourself. It includes the power for us to say "No" to all of our earthly desires of the flesh that attacks us regularly. When God is working in our lives, we now have the power to control our own thoughts, words and our actions. Our fallen nature from this broken world is under the effects of sin, and it makes us weak-willed. In the Bible, it's called being a "slave to sin." Romans 6:6 says: "Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him,
Fruits of the Spirit
that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin." This is like filling a lawful need by using an unlawful way. Without the Holy Spirit's power, we are powerless to choose on our own the best way to reach our goals and conquering such things as not smoking, not doing drugs or not drinking. But the problem is, without God helping us with these things, our own desires would get in the way and outweigh everything else that is good for us and enslave us to sin once again. After being saved by Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, we are now free. Galatians 5:1 says: "Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and so not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage." That liberty which Jesus made for us is the freedom from sin. Now that the Spirit has given us selfcontrol, we can now refuse sin; just turn away and run. As believers in Jesus, we need self-control because of the broken world we live in (Romans 7:21-25). It's like having to build walls around an ancient city to keep the enemy out. Soldiers would then guard the gates of the city to keep everyone inside safe. In our lives today, that may include who we hang around with. We should be avoiding people who do not believe and are still deep into sinning. We also need to
Page 5
be aware of what we watch on TV, or movies, and what we are reading. We are not showing self-control if we are continuing to do the things in our lives that still enslave us to sin. Self-control leads to perseverance. 2 Peter 1:6 says:"...to knowledge selfcontrol, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness and to brotherly kindness love." Self-control is a special gift that frees us all. With it, we can enjoy the benefits of our physical health. It also frees us from a guilty conscience. Self-control restricts the foolish desires that we once had, helps us find the liberty to love and live like we were meant to.
WOOD
Publications
Publisher/Sales Graphic Designer/Writer: Rob Wood
wood.publications.2014@gmail.com
Editor: Donna Wood
wood.publications.2014@gmail.com Owned and published by Rob Wood of Wood Publications, contact us at 905-380-4489, email wood.publications.2014@gmail.com
Page 6
I
His Grace Magazine
CD in Review...
September 2019
Elevation Worship Hallelujah Here Below...
was given this CD as a gift; it's the first album of Elevation Worship that I have owned and it won't be my last. I know this album was released a year ago, but many Christians I have talked to don't know who they are. Until this album, I was one of those Christians. This is Elevation Worship's sixth live album and they built up a large following of fans over the past few years. This album is a very professional sounding album; the group did a great job of expressing their music. This album starts off with "Won't Stop Now"; a good start to this album with good tones and the sound of the crowd clapping in the background. I love the call to the Spirit and the worship feeling of the Lord's presence... it's a wonderful feeling. This opening song is 7 minutes long. "God of the Promise" is a shorter song about God's word and His actions against our enemy, and that God's promises always happen. This song is 4 minutes of worship; it has a strong tone and message, especially when it says, "Light of the world, trample the darkness." The title song, "Hallelujah Here Below" is a slow-rising song that builds up the sounds. This song is easy to listen to and to grab hold of because of the repeating chorus, but it works and sounds perfect.
"Here Again" is one of my favorites on the album; it talks about the need to meet Jesus in the middle of any storm that we face in our lives. We can see all the work God has done in our past, we all have hope of the future, but only in the middle can we actually meet Jesus... that's such an important and beautiful moment in our lives. It's so beautiful to see the glory of our Lord Jesus being strong through our weaknesses. "Echo" starts out different from the others and has a little more of an electronic dance feel to it. This song features Tauren Wells, who leads with his vocals; it has a quick upbeat tempo to it. "Greater Than your Love" takes a look at why God would want us with our broken hearts, with all of our shame and sins. The song looks at the way God has healed us and He will find us wherever we may be and pour His love and grace on us.
Elevation Worship has been put in the same category as Bethel Music, Jesus Culture, Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Darlene Zschech and Hillsong Worship as major contemporary worship music. I really do enjoy this music; I love listening to it while I'm writing, designing, or just doing housework, and I think you will also enjoy this album. Give it a try and feel the Holy Spirit working through this music. The album's CD jacket quotes this scripture: 1 Peter 2:5: "You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ."
Hallelujah
Here Below... 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12
"Won't Stop Now" "God of the Promise" "Hallelujah Here Below" "Here Again" "Echo (Feat. Tauren Wells)" "Worthy" "Mighty God" "Power" "Greater than Your Love" "Faithful" "Here Comes Heaven" "Better Word"
Poetry Page...
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
His Faithfulness
Know that the Lord your God is GOD; He is faithful; His word is true. He never changes; He cannot lie; Any promise He says, He will fulfill. His vow of a Savior was satisfied... Jesus came to atone for our sins. We will be forgiven if we accept Him and repent of all our wrongdoings. He will always provide our needs; He has delivered us from our past. Think of how God has answered your prayers; His grace and mercy will forever last. If you realize His proven character; You'll know His word is spirit food. Believe He will never cease being God; He will never cease being holy or good. To know Him is to trust in Him; Then we can be restful in His light. His plan for us will always prevail; Trust Him to do that which is right. Read: (Hebrews 13:8)
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.�
Page 7
His Grace Magazine
Page 8
September 2019
Wedding Announcement...
T
Donna&Rob
Our Special Day...
alk about faithfulness! Boy, do we have a story to tell! My wife and I first met online back in July 2017 on a Christian dating site called CDFF (Christian Dating for Free). I really didn't think about answering Donna's friend request when she first contacted me because I haven't had any luck in the past with dating sites, and she had only a peach tree as her profile picture. I was thinking, "Oh brother, here we go again!" But I felt God smack the back of my head saying, "Answer her!" So I did and immediately we connected ... we had so many things in common; we both loved the Lord, we both took care of our Mothers while they were ill, and we both knew all about the pain of loss too well. We fell in love with each other's hearts before we even physically met. She lived in Newfoundland, and I lived in Ontario. Donna already had a trip planned to Ontario to visit on her son's birthday in August that year. So we thought about how we could somehow meet while she was here in my province. We didn't know how it would happen, since we
would be three hours apart still, and with a very small window, we weren't sure if it was even possible, but we knew that it was something
we needed to do if our relationship was to grow. So we prayed about it and talked about meeting at a Tim Horton's somewhere halfway between us on August 20th.
Since Donna flew to Ontario, she didn't have access to a vehicle and I was not familiar with the territory, but God was all over this and miraculously, things fell together. At 12 noon on Sunday, August 20, 2017, we met for the very first time at Timmy's in a city just west of Toronto. Those next three hours changed our lives forever because we both realized that God had orchestrated our meeting and that now our worlds needed to become one. In June of 2018, Donna flew up again and this time we spent three days together close to my hometown. I got to show her where I lived and the places I frequented. We drove to beautiful Meaford and Georgian Bay and enjoyed every minute together. Parting that time was one of the hardest things we ever had to do, but we were so thankful that God made that trip happen. He confirmed to us that it was His will that we marry. However, since Donna still takes care of her mom, we both knew that the only way we could be together would be if I relocated to Newfoundland. I've never been there before; I've heard that the people are very nice there, but the winters can be cruel. Through
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
Wedding Announcement...
another extraordinary chain of events that only God could muster up, in February of this year, I was able to fly to Newfoundland for three days and experience where Donna lives. It was mid-winter, and when the plane landed in Deer Lake, we were in the midst of a terrible snow and ice storm. Through all of that though, I knew that this is where God wanted me to be. And as they say, 'The rest is history.' Donna and I married on August 20, 2019 in
Donna&Rob
a beautiful little chapel in what is now my hometown of Grand Falls-Windsor, NL. ... exactly two years from the very first day we physically met. I don't know what God's plans are for me yet, but I do know that I trust Him with all of my heart. He has been so faithful to me so far and I will continue to believe in Him and look
Page 9
forward with great anticipation to everything He has in store for us as husband and wife and as ambassadors for Christ.
Page 10
His Grace Magazine
Jesus Christ is the same
yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
September 2019
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
Athletes for Christ...
P
Page 11
Paul Henderson The Goal of Goals...
aul Henderson scored the biggest goal in the history of Canadian hockey. Paul scored "The Goal of Goals." If you're a Canadian and a fan of hockey, that is all you really need to say when you're talking about Paul Henderson. While the game was winding down on September 28, 1972, Paul was on the bench waiting for his chance to get back on the ice for one last shot at victory. As time was running out, it looked like the series would end in a tie. But then with a little over a minute left in the game, Paul was given his chance. He leaped off the boards and skated down the ice towards the Soviets' net. He missed on the first attempt. In the words of legendary hockey commentator Foster Hewitt, "Henderson made
a wild stab for it and fell." As Paul fell and slid into the boards, he quickly got back on his skates. Phil Esposito shot the puck at Soviet goalie, Vladislav Tretiak, and
Paul grabbed the rebound. Foster Hewitt called the goal..."Here's another shot! Right in front...They score! Henderson has scored for Canada!" With just 34 seconds left in the game, Canada would win the game 6-5 and the series 4 wins, 3 losses and 1 tie. The first 4 games were played in Canada and the last 4 played in the Soviet Union. Amazingly, Paul scored the winning goals in games 6, 7 and 8. Paul and Eleanor, his wife of 57 years, both share their faith of Jesus. They speak to church groups as Paul is a motivational speaker. Surprisingly, one might think his book, "The Goal of My Life", is about his big goal he scored for Team Canada. In fact, the book title is about Paul's personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
His Grace Magazine
Walking With Jesus...
Page 12
T
September 2019
The Angel of the Lord The Pre-existence of Jesus Christ...
he journey with Walking with Jesus series continues. Last month, we looked at The Angel of the Lord being a protector and standing guard for Israel by a cloud during the day and by fire at night, as He opened the Red Sea to save the Israelites from the advancing Egyptian army in the Old Testament. This month we look at the prophet Balaam and his encounter with the Angel of the Lord. Balaam was an unfaithful prophet who used God's power to make his money as a medium (or psychic) to Balak, the king of Moab. One good thing Balaam did was he continued to bless the Israelites, even when Balak wanted him to curse them. Numbers 23:11 says: 'Then Balak said to Balaam, "What have you done to me? I took you to curse my enemies, and look, you have blessed them bountifully!"' Balaam kept on participating with Balak's elders so that he could make some coin (money). This made Balaam an awful prophet. Balaam, the son of Beor, was a pagan prophet. He focused on animal divination; he would seek the will of the gods by using sheep liver. Revelations 2:14 says: "But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught
Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality." All things such as divination practices were forbidden among the people of Israel. Leviticus 19:26 says: "You shall not eat anything with the blood, nor shall you practice divination or soothsaying." Balaam's main worry was "the wages of unrighteousness." 2 Peter 2:15 says: "They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness." One day on a trip to see Balak, God intervened; God was angry because Balaam was going to see Balak, after God said not to. The Angel of the Lord took His stand in front of His enemy, who was against Him. Balaam was riding a donkey. When the donkey saw the Angel of the Lord standing in front of him with His sword drawn in His hand, the donkey then turned off the path and went into the field. Balaam struck the donkey to make him get back on the path. Then the Angel of the Lord stood on the narrow road of the vineyards, with a wall on either side. The donkey was aware of the Angel of the Lord's presence, but Balaam was not. The donkey then pushed against the
stone wall, crushing Balaam's foot between the donkey and the wall. The donkey knew she couldn't move around the Angel of the Lord, so she laid down. Balaam began to strike the donkey to get her to move. At this time the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey. Numbers 22:28-33 says: 'Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?" And Balaam said to the donkey, "Because you have abused me. I wish there were a sword in my hand for now I would kill you!" So the donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your donkey on which you have ridden, ever since I became yours, to this day? Was I ever disposed to do this to you?" And he said, "No." Then the Lord opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the Angel of the Lord standing in the way with His sword drawn in His hand; and he bowed his head and fell flat on his face. And the Angel of the Lord said to him, "Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to stand against you, because your way is perverse before Me. The donkey saw Me and turned aside from Me these three times. If she had not turned aside from Me, surely I would also have killed you by now, and let her live."
Walking With Jesus... September 2019
J
His Grace Magazine
The book of Mark Christ as being a Servant...
ohn Mark wrote the Gospel of Mark. Although he was not one of Jesus' disciples, Mark might have been a teenager at the time when Jesus' earthly ministry began. Mark was one of many who was caught up in Jesus Christ's passion, death, and resurrection. He was present at the beginning of Jesus Christ's Church. The early church always gathered at Mark's mother's house in Jerusalem. Acts 12:12 says: "So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying." It might have been the time that Peter and John had been preaching the gospel to thousands. That very room that Mark was in was shaken by the power of God after the church had prayed. Acts 4:31 says: "And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and they spoke the word of God with boldness." There are so many miracle stories in the gospel of Mark. This gospel contains twenty descriptions of miracles and healings, accounting for a third of the gospel. Mark shows Jesus as a Servant where he performs miracles and healings in Galilee, preaching to all the crowds. Jesus, after searching, gathers all His disciples; He begins teaching,
driving out all the demons, healing the sick, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, feeding the hungry. He gives the blind sight. Jesus starts telling the crowds all the parables and He performs mighty works. He calmed the storms and walked on water, but while the demons knew who Jesus was, the crowds and His disciples failed to understand His true identity. Jesus also had many encounters with the Jewish leaders. He goes to Galilee to gentile areas. Jesus also took the time to teach His disciples. Mark 8:29-31 says: 'He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered and said to Him, "You are the Christ." Then He strictly warned them that they should tell no one about Him. And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.' Then Jesus went up to the high mountain with Peter, James and John. Mark 9 2:8 says: "Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James and John, and led them up on the high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. Then Peter answered and said to
Page 13
Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah" because he did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid. And a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!" Suddenly, when they had look around, they saw no one anymore, but only Jesus with themselves.' In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus shows that He means what He says and He is who He says He is. In Mark, we see Jesus, the Messiah, coming as a servant. He reveals who He is by what He does. He explains what His mission and message is through His actions. John Mark does capture Jesus when He is on the move. He does not have the birth of Jesus, but he dives quickly into Jesus' public ministry. The dominant theme of the Gospel of Mark is that Jesus came to serve. Jesus gave His life for all of us. He lived out His message through His service to us; we can all follow His teachings and learn by His examples. The purpose of the book of Mark is to reveal Jesus' call as a servant. Next month, we will take another look at the Gospel of Mark before moving on to the Book of Luke, where he sees Jesus Christ as the Son of God.
Page 14
His Grace Magazine
Racing with Christ...
September 2019
Morgan Shepherd Finding Jesus, after hitting rock bottom... M
organ Shepherd had 41 consecutive years in NASCAR racing...from 19672008. He had 4-cup wins, 15 Busch wins and over 200 wins in his pre-modern racing career. Morgan's racing career was going pretty good, but February 23, 1975 was the low point in Morgan's life. During that year, Morgan finished his race at the Daytona 500. When he came home, he found out his wife had left him. Morgan decided at that point to enjoy himself, but after a wild weekend of drinking and partying to the early morning hours, he felt really terrible. Morgan at this point in his life Morgan thought, if this is suppose had hit rock bottom. He always to be so much fun, he couldn't figure out why he felt so terrible in went to church and he knew of the Lord, but he never really and the morning.
truly turned his life over to Jesus. But that all changed on a Tuesday night in February, 1975; the night that Morgan accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Morgan fell to his knees, began to pray and asked God to totally change his heart. That very night, God took any desire he had for alcohol away from his life. Life will always have challenges to deal with. But when we accept Jesus Christ in our lives as our Savior, we will have the faith. With Him, we will be able to handle all of life's challenges. If you are struggling with problems, I urge you to turn them over to Jesus today and He will take care of you and carry you through the storms.
Prayer Page...
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
The Faithfulness of God Almighty God,
Page 15
We thank You for Your presence and work in our lives ; We are made new because of what You have done for us. You are teaching and leading us; You are calling us to be closer and closer to You; You strengthen us and encourage us. You have our future in Your hands, Our tomorrow with all its potential, Our next step, our next sunrise and sunset. You will lead us all our days As you work Your plans out in our lives; As you call us to continue to grow and to serve. You have our eternity in Your hands, That we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
We thank You, in Jesus' name,
Amen.
Page 16
His Grace Magazine
Featured Artist...
September 2019
We Are Messengers Their music brings the Light of Hope...
W
e Are Messengers watched as their career erupted with the release of their debut album in 2016. This album, which gave them their first Dove Award nomination for New Artist of the Year, also had included on the top 5 hitlist "Everything Comes Alive", "Magnify" and "Point to You". In January 2019, the group had released the billboard top 10 "Honest" album which features the No. #1 single "Maybe It's Ok". Darren Mulligan left his home and Ireland to start a new life that was full of selfish desires. God had different plans for Darren though. Now leaving Ireland yet again, he is a different man this time around, compared to his troubled past. His personal testimony, and We Are
Messengers's music is a light of hope for everyone. Darren sees the group as Messengers for God, sending out His word through their music. God has given them words and their songs to touch people's lives and by listening to their songs, they can feel God through their music.
Darren and We Are Messengers write nice music for a very complex world. Darren has worked with many writers and producers for this album, such as: Jose Bronleewe, Ed Cash, Seth Mosley and others. When Darren reached Franklin, Tenn, he started right away...he began his writing sessions. The first year of writing, he wrote over 100 songs, and 14 songs were chosen for their debut album. We Are Messengers left Ireland, their homeland, to answer God's call, to step out, move to the United States with Darren's wife and family, and begin producing good music that will minister to people. It was a sacrifice that they made, and it was worth the price.
Recipe...
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
Zucchini Supreme
Page 17
• 1 large zucchini • 1 lb ground beef, cooked, w/soya sauce added to meat • 1 med. onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings • 3 med. tomatoes, sliced • 4 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced • Grated cheddar cheese • 1 pkg. Caesar flavored croutons • ¼ c. butter, melted • Alternate layers of zucchini, beef, onion, carrot and tomatoes in a 9” x13” baking dish • Season each layer with salt and pepper • Sprinkle cheese on top of casserole • Spread croutons on top • Drizzle with melted butter • Cover and bake @ 350 deg. F for 45 minutes • Uncover and bake 15 minutes longer
1 Timothy 6:7-8 “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.”
Page 18
I
His Grace Magazine
Bible Study...
Joshua 24:15
We will serve the Lord...
n many Christian homes, you will probably see the scriptural verse "…as for me and my house…" adorning someone’s doorway or their mantle in the living room. It’s a recognized verse of the Bible that many attribute to their belief in how they should live individually and as a family. “And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 is a meaningful declaration made centuries ago that can be lived out today as though it were spoken just yesterday. It’s a bold proclamation made that many Christians today seek to follow in their daily lives. Joshua had witnessed several shameful behaviors exhibited by the Israelites as they wandered the wilderness with Moses. He pleaded with his people to turn away from the gods their fathers worshipped while in Egypt and while traveling in the wilderness. He hoped to show them that it was better to serve the Lord who took care of them than false gods who
“demanded” unholy sacrifices but did little to help. Joshua made it clear to the Israelites that his first priority went to him and his "house." Joshua had a family. As concerned as he was about the children of Israel, he knew that he and his family must live by their faith in God. He was willing to stand by his faith against the greatest of odds to serve God. It is clear that Joshua took the lead in his household. There was no outward timidity, hesitation,
or question about his role in the family. He moved forward with God's will, realizing his first responsibility was for the leading of his family, then the nation. Joshua and Caleb were the only two of the spies who said that, with God's help, they could take the Promised Land. His lead is an example for all men to learn from and follow. People desperately need solid examples of spiritual leadership. This is first developed and refined in the home. Joshua took a bold
September 2019
stand to serve the Lord regardless of its popularity. By faith, men must take the leadership role even when the spiritual course is unpopular. This calls for tough decision-making. However, the man does not have to be meanspirited about the decision. The spirit used to lead is as important as the fact that one leads. You will be challenged and your ability to lead will also be called into question. How you handle the mistakes will also prove your leadership. Start in the home. Take the stand to be a spiritual leader. Admit your errors, repent of them, ask for forgiveness, correct them, and move forward. Move forward in your role as a spiritual leader, realizing it is the highest form of service. By the same token, service is the highest act of leadership. When you lead by serving others, some will take advantage of you. You must face criticism for taking a stand and making a change in your life. You will be misinterpreted, misquoted, and generally unappreciated for your direction. And you will be appreciated by some and praised by few. Rest your faith in, and draw your spiritual strength from God, not the praise of others. Anything else you accomplish in this life doesn't really matter … the most important thing is to be a spiritual leader to your family.
September 2019
His Grace Magazine
In Concert with...
Rend Collective The Revival Anthem Tour 2019...
T
he Irish-based band called Rend Collective is a diverse band of instrumentalists from Bangor in the North of Ireland. They have a deep-rooted passion for something that is spiritually significant in our world today. That's why this group of friends all came together to explore the possibilities God has given them. After many years playing in
Ireland, the group started feeling the call from God to step up and move out to unknown territories. The collective felt that they were being called to reach as many people as they can with their music. There are fourteen Canadian stops on the “Revival Anthem Tour�: Sept. 20: Moncton, New Brunswick Sept. 21: Glace Bay, Nova Scotia Sept. 22: Halifax, Nova Scotia Sept. 26: Ottawa, Ontario Sept. 27: Montreal, Quebec Sept. 28: Toronto, Ontario Sept. 29: Windsor, Ontario Oct. 3: Winnipeg, Manitoba Oct. 4: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Oct. 5: Regina, Saskatchewan Oct. 9: Edmonton, Alberta Oct. 10: Calgary, Alberta Oct. 11: Kelowna, British Columbia Oct. 12: Vancouver, British Columbia They have developed into a worldwide success with large scale
Page 19
tours with such artists as Chris Tomlin, MercyMe, Tenth Avenue North and Lecrae. Rend Collective has revealed their concert schedule, as they stop by some cities in Canada and the United States. They will be playing some of their hits like "Counting Every Blessing", performing in many churches on their tour.
Page 20
His Grace Magazine
September 2019
From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD's name is to be praised.
Psalm 113:3
His Grace Magazine
Movie in Review...
September 2019
Heavenly Deposit “Faith begins where the road ends�
T
he movie, Heavenly Deposit, is a good faith based film that clearly shows the shifting that happens in our lives when we let go and start letting God take care of things! A very memorable line in the movie says it all: "When you are taking your last shot to win the game, would you rather shoot it yourself or give the ball to Michael Jordan!" In this case though, when we give the ball to God, it's a guaranteed win for us. Peter Ranos (played by George Vincent) is a struggling actor who is out of work. His wife, Ellie (played by Kristina Denton), works at a beauty salon. They both are struggling money-wise
and are going to lose their home. With things getting worse for them, Peter starts selling some valuables to try and save their home. Peter even sells his stamp collection that belonged to his deceased dad, and losing his dad is something that Peter never got over. Both of them were inseparable until Peter's dad passed away. Peter was very close to his father, and he hasn't spoken to God since his dad died. When Peter finds out his wife Ellie is going to have a baby, his stress level becomes almost unbearable, especially since his car was towed away and on top of that, he is fined for having a garage sale and not having a permit. Now they're dealing with a low food supply, a low gas tank, late payments for the house... these are some of the problems a lot of couples face and struggle with from time to time. This movie is one that people can relate to. Peter has his mother and good friend, Matt, helping and supporting them both. They do what they can to keep them going. Peter gets a job at a frame shop, also auditions for what he hopes is a lasting acting job. Then Ellie ends up in the hospital and has
Page 21
an unlikely meeting with a man named Tony who could change Peter's life. As Peter stares at a sign that says, "Trust in the Lord", Peter is faced with a decision. Does Peter talk to God again; God the one he needs the most and the one he hasn't talked to since his dad's death? Can Peter finally find it in his heart to let go, and let God take over again? This movie features wonderful themes of enjoying all of the little things that life has to offer, valuing the important things like family and friends and the most important thing: maintaining our personal relationship with our Lord Jesus. Because of certain dramatic scenes in the movie: tension and disagreements between husband and wife, it's been given a Dove seal of Ages 12+. George Vincent is in many scenes in this movie and his good acting as Peter helps us relate better to Peter's character in this story and helps bring Peter to life, someone we care about in the movie.
Starring: George Vincent, Kristina Denton, John Savage, Mike Madrigal, Ella Joyce, Barry Van Dyke, Peter Jason. Director: Rick Irvin, George Vincent Producers: Rick Irvin, George Vincent. Heavenly Deposit: is available on Blue ray and DVD now.
Until next time, God bless you all, from everyone here at His Grace.
Page 22
His Grace Magazine
Grace His
September 2019
New stories every month! Interesting Christian topics, Great Movie, CD and Book reviews! Get your FREE copy of His Grace magazine today! Call 905-380-4489 wood.publications.2014@gmail.com or check out our magazine on-line @ www.issuu.com/His-Grace
His Grace Magazine
Book in Review...
September 2019
The Book of Signs
Page 23
31 Undeniable Prophecies
By: Dr. David Jeremiah
T
he Book of Signs is a must have for many reasons; it's a great resource for all Christians who are seeking to explore through all the uncertainties of this present world and the times we live in, and to cling to God's promises for our future with Him. Expressions such as "The End Times", "The Apocalypse", and "The Day of Judgement" are captivating, engrossing and scary at times for anyone, especially for newcomers to God's word. People ask Dr. David Jeremiah some key questions that we at times have all struggled with for a long time. Questions such as: • What does the Bible tell us about the future? • How much can we understand about what the Bible says, about prophecy and how it applies to our lives today? • What signs will we see prior to the start of things that are to come? • Which of the signs have already happened? Are they happening now? And which are still to come? The Book of Signs by Dr. David Jeremiah offers all of us the answers to these questions and many more. From decades of study, Dr. David Jeremiah tells us the key signs of the coming apocalypse and what it's going to mean for us all.
The Book of Signs is a truly epic, dependable book of biblical prophecy. Six months before Dr. David Jeremiah wrote this book, he had become very discouraged by what was going on in the United States and the rest of the world. So he responded by writing a book full of prophecies. The Book of Signs has 31 undeniable prophecies about the coming apocalypse. The five major signs in the book are put in five parts: International, Cultural, Heavenly, Tribulation and the End Signs. PART 1: International Signs The 31 undeniable prophecies of the apocalypse is a story that can be explained to us in five acts. The first act, five countries emerge: Israel, Europe, Russia,
Babylon and America. PART 2: Cultural Signs As prophecy continues to develop, we will see many cultural signs of what is to come. This includes: Radical Islam, Persecution, Spiritual warfare and much more. PART 3: Heavenly Signs In part three, we will see a glimmer of hope. It all begins with the Rapture of the Church, then the Judgement Seat of Christ and our heavenly rewards. PART 4: Tribulation Signs In this part, we see some of the most evil and some of the most inspiring characters in all of scripture, like the Antichrist, the False Prophet, the two Witnesses, the 144,000 and many more. PART 5: End Signs We come to the last act in this drama that is called the signs of the Apocalypse. This part features the Second Coming of Christ and the glorious Millennium that will be established here on earth. Turning Point, which is Dr. Jeremiah's ministry, offers study guides, a DVD series on these signs as well as a set of audio recordings. As you read...You will see not only how God's word offers insight into the future, but also how scripture builds faith through the events of the past and future.
Page 24
His Grace Magazine
September 2019
G GOD O D IS
PLEASE SHARE GOD'S LOVE