Faith Filled Family Magazine Fall 2011

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Fall 2011

Family

HELPING FAMILIES LIVE VICTORIOUSLY IN CHRIST

How to we raise up a new generation that it on fire for God? How can they learn from our mistakes.

Articles 34

28 THE GREAT HALLOWEEN DECEPTION Should Christians celebrate Halloween?

Why or why not.

8 WHO REALLY KNOWS YOUR FUTURE? GOD OR SATAN? Will you believe the lies of the enemy told to you via a medium or will you hear God’s truth? God can tell you of your future using three simple methods. Best of all, it’s accurate!

30 DON’T, AND STAY AWAY!

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37 Features

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41 DISCIPLING THE NEXT GENERATION

Why do people get involved in the occult?

What is the attraction? This article discusses the occult and how to avoid falling into common pitfalls.

32 BOOK REVIEW

18 IT’S A MIRACLE! OR IS IT? Throughout the Bible people have performed both healing and magic. How can you discern which spirit is in opperation?

Can you be a Christian magician? Bubble., bubble, toil and dabbling in sorcery will get you in. . . TROUBLE!

23 IN THE NAME OF JESUS. . .STOP!

Many people are under attack and just want all this spiritual warfare to stop. . .NOW! Christ gave you the authority to stop attacks from the enemy. Find out how!

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When you Grow up and get. . .Single! By Stephanie Huffman

37 POETRY

By Lois Loba

40 POETRY Would that it Were by Keith Wallis

44 POETRY

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What are tongues and how are they used.

Are we able to know what a person speaking in tongues says? How does Satan pervert this gift.

My Child By Rodrigo Quiroz

47 LIVING TWENTY YEARS WITH A GHOST What life is like when we are filled with the Holy Spirit and what he can do for us.

50 ASK BEVERLEY

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14 WHAT DID YOU SAY?

52 PHONE CALL TO HEAVEN Chapter two

OF

GOD

OR

What is a husband’s role in the home and how has society destroyed what God originally intended for a family to look like.

54 ENTERTAINMENT REVIEW 58 TESTIMONY God calls me Child

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34 MIGHTY MAN MOUSE?

37 LOST: THE GODLY WOMAN

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The role that women play in society has changed greatly. However, in our striving for equality, have we lost God’s original design for what women are to be?

Faith Filled Family “Helping Families Live Victoriously in Christ” Fall 2011

More Than a Bookstore!

Publisher Michelle Danko Editor-In-Chief Jill King Advertising Michelle Danko

Located in Boone, Iowa, we are a community based bookstore with a family friendly Christian environment.

Copywriter Elisa Cibrario

In addition to DVD’s, Bibles, books, music, t-shirts, cards, and gift items, we offer:

Cover Photo By Michelle Danko ©iStockphoto.com/loskutnikov (hand in fire) Microsoft Clip Art (angel wings)

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Brewed beverages A safe place for kids to play while parents shop!

Photographers ©iStockphoto.com/ FreezeFrameStudio, LincolnRogers, freebinator, nautilus_shell_studios, loskutnikov, tatisol, DesignKeek1, OtmarW, urbancow, aanton, laflor,krom 1975, ArtyFree, portishead1, Microsoft Clip Art, and backgroundlabs.com

Faith Filled Family Magazine is published quarterly by: Faith Filled Family Winnipeg, Manitoba R2G 2N7

We are located at 1325 S.E. Marshall Boone, Iowa 50036 Phone: 515-432-5242

Website:

www.faithfilledfamily.com

Visit our website at www.kingschristianbookstore.com 3

Happy Anniversary Faith Filled Family Magazine!

Upon reflection, this first year has been an awesome journey. Our magazine has grown exponentially from 10,000 hit for the first issue, to 36,000 for the spring issue. We have finished our first year with over 80,000 hits, which is incredible for a start up magazine.

I would personally like to thank all of the Faith Filled Family Magazine team who tirelessly give of themselves to make this magazine possible. Many of them have gone beyond the “call of duty” and without them, we would not be as successful as we are. We have been blessed to have a strong, cohesive team, and they continue to exceed expectations. It is my desire that each of them know how important they are, and how much I appreciate everything they do.

Many thanks to all of our loyal readers, our advertisers, and those of you who regularly promote our magazine. Without you, there wouldn’t be a Faith Filled Family Magazine, and, like our team, we wouldn’t be impacting families internationally.

With Halloween so quickly approaching, we have decided to attack the occult. Many believers have been deceived into believing that many occult practices are acceptable to the Lord when indeed they are not. Ignorance is dangerous in this situation as many Christians are coming under attack and do not know why. We would like to be a light in the darkness and expose what ultimately God created as the Gifts of the Spirit.

We also wanted to shed some light on the Halloween controversy. It is my belief that Christians should not celebrate this day. As you will read, Halloween has its roots steeped in paganism and indeed celebrates the dead. Even if you don’t dress up as anything ghoulish, or just go for the candy, you are still celebrating this day by participating.

We also wanted to include the godly man, women, and preparing the next generation in this issue. The roles in the family have gotten so distorted by movements that began as good, but took a wrong turn. People no longer know their God given roles in the home, nor do they know what God’s plan for the family is. We wonder why our families are in such a mess. This series of articles will be a blessing to your family.

As always, I pray that you and your families are blessed. As we are nearing the end of the year, I would also like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with prosperous new beginnings!

Be Blessed!

Michelle Danko Publisher Faith Filled Family Magazine

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Final selection is between homeowner and house sitter.

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All income goes to support a Christian Children's Home in Kenya

To say a special thank you to all of our readers for their support, Faith Filled Family is pleased to announce our special give away!

Prizes include: An autographed copy of “A Time To. . .” by Ronald Louis Peterson $10 gift certificate to Starbucks $10 gift certificate to iTunes AND JUST FOR THE LADIES. . .

An autographed copy of “When You Grow Up And Get. . . Single!” by Stephanie Huffman Chix Chat Commuter Mug Chix Chat t-shirt $10 gift certificate to Starbucks Please view http://www.zazzle.com/chixchatclub for pictures of these items.

To enter this awesome contest, please follow us on Twitter and tweet us either a note of congratulations, or tell us what you like about the magazine. We are under FaithFilledMag Even better. . .

If you refer a friend to our magazine, please email our publisher, Michelle (michelledanko@shaw.ca) and let her know.

If your friend follows and posts on Twitter, you will receive an extra chance to enter into our draw.

All eligible contestants must be eighteen years or older to participate in this contest.

Contest closes December 1, 2011. Winner will be notified by email or via Twitter.

Many thanks to Ronald Louis Peterson and Stephanie Huffman for their generous donations

Who Really Knows Your Future. . .

God or Satan?

By Michelle C. Danko

Who Should You Believe?

The gifts of the word of knowledge, word off faith and prophesy can work either in conjunction with each

other, or separately, depending on God’s purpose. God created them for the betterment of His kingdom.

We do, however, have an enemy that perverts them, and many people have fallen prey to his devices. The consequences are dire for those who participate is contacting the dead, fortune telling, etc. What may be an activity done for curiosity’s sake, or out of comfort can have some scary results when demonic activity becomes present. Demons may be “friendly” at first, but they are creatures from Satan, and they don’t stay friendly for long. Please choose not to be deceived any longer! Your salvation may depend on it.

A word of knowledge is when a message comes forth wherein particular information is needed by the church body at a certain time. It can be a message on direction, leadership, or serve as a warning of impending danger. A word of knowledge can lead a church as to where it needs to go, it can appoint someone into a ministerial position, or it can warn the church to avoid engaging in a particular activity as it will not have favorable results, or bring harm to the congregation. A word of knowledge can also be directed to an individual as well.

The gift of word of wisdom is given to bring together existing knowledge and to provide direction.

A word of wisdom is to provide a clear path to a desired outcome, and to ensure that people stay on course. It can restore clear vision and good sense when people begin to go off track.

Prophesy gives a message of God’s will or His intentions.

The bible says, “But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort.”

1 Corinthians 14:3 NIV There are many people that desire having a prophetic word spoken over them, however, there are some things that need to be noted. A prophesy can be either a correction, or to act as an encouragement, and can be followed by a trial.

For example, my husband and I received a prophesy regarding our financial prosperity. We were told, in brief, that we were to be financially prosperous. This came at a time in our lives when our finances were at their lowest, and we were struggling to meet our financial obligations. We were falling further and further behind into debt, and were in desperate need of a way out. We needed hope- which is what this prophesy gave us. It comforted us to let us know that God was with us, and our situation was temporary. However, the purpose of a prophetic utterance is to give us a hope and a promise to hold on to in times of trial. We are to hold on to the promise, because we are about to go into a trial.

We went through being behind in our bills, not being able to pay the mortgage, not having money to pay for gas to get to church (our church is an hour and a half drive!), and wondering how we going to bring our family to a place of stability. We went through money being stolen from us in various capacities, and dealing with creditors calling endlessly to victory. It appeared, in the natural, that there was no way out.

However, we held onto God’s promise in that prophesy, and six months after the word was given, we were finally placed in a position of prosperity. That word was given for us to hold on to in times of struggle.

Prophesies can either be a word that God gives you, or can also come in the form of dreams and visions. You also don’t have to be sleeping to have a vision- it can come at any time. If you do receive a prophesy, word of knowledge, or word of wisdom, it is always best to ask God what he wants you to do with this information. Sometimes, He will ask you to reveal it to the person, sometimes it is for you to stay away, and sometimes it’s for prayer.

All of these gifts, when used properly, are to give God the glory. However, if used inappropriately, they can be used to promote Satan’s kingdom. People engage in occult activity either knowingly, or unknowingly. Christians often believe that activities such as palm reading, or crystal ball reading are all done in harmless fun. They often are blinded to the fact that they are engaging in occult practices, and by doing so, can end up causing them spiritual harm.

Anyone who consults, uses, or channels a “medium/spirit” to gain information is engaging in the practices of the occult. Their information always appears to be accurate, but keep in mind that even Satan knows what you have done in the past and can repeat it to someone

else. The “spirits” that they contact are indeed demons, not anything from God, and anything coming from their lips is false.

The bible is very specific about acts of the occult: “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD; because of these same detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 18:10 NIV) These mediums that contact the dead are again contacting evil spirits. They lie (as does anything associated with Satan) and can give you false information. The reality is that once you are dead, your spirit either enters heaven, or hell. We cannot communicate with the dead- they are gone. We can, however, communicate with Satan and his demons, and they will give you false information.

At first, if you contact the dead, for example, by a Ouija board, it may seem like harmless fun. The information may at first be accurate. However, as you let more demons into your life- which is what you are doing- things can get scary pretty quickly. Demons can indeed follow you, if you do not know your authority in Christ, and if you are unsaved they can possess you. If you are saved, they can still oppress you. Either way, you are letting in demons and they can torture you. Many pastors have reports of what demons can do ranging from tauntings, to physically moving objects. If they are not cast out, then they can be horrifying.

It is worth noting that “ghosts” also fall into this category. Ghosts are familiar spirits. They are demons who take on a form that is familiar to you. I have seen familiar spirits in my walk, and I can always identify them by distortions in their appearance. Their purpose is always harm, and they need to be cast out. They can be cast out both in your dreams, or by saying “In Jesus name, I cast you out unclean spirit!” If you know your authority, the spirit HAS to leave. You also have to mean it in your heart. This also works when you are asleep, but it takes practice. To do this, you have to recognize that you are speaking to a familiar spirit, not your dead relative, and actually control the dream and cast it out- in your dream. It does take some practice, but you can do it. Again, it has to leave.

So, what do you do if you have been mislead into the occult? It is simple, we are only held accountable by the knowledge that we possess. Now that your eyes have been opened, all you need to do is repent. Ask God to forgive you for your sins, and He is always faithful to forgive you.

However, if you have read this and are ignoring the conviction that God has placed in your heart, then you are still operating in sin. If you are engaging in a false prophesy as in fortune telling, tea leaf readings, palm readings, ouija boards, etc then God has the following word for you; “That (false) prophet or dreamer must be put to death for inciting rebellion against the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 13:5 NIV) “ “Their visions are false and their divinations a lie. Even though the LORD has not sent them, they say, “The LORD declares,” and expect him to fulfill their words. Have you not seen false visions and uttered lying divinations when you say, “The LORD declares,” though I have not spoken? “ “‘Therefore this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because of your false words and lying visions, I am against you, declares the Sovereign LORD. My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions and utter lying divinations. They will not belong to the council of my people or be listed in the records of Israel, nor will they enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Sovereign LORD.” Ezekiel 13:8-9 NIV “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:19-21 NIV) Deuteronomy discusses the Egyptians entering into the promised land and is warning them against falling prey to their deceptive practices. Taken into today’s context, a false prophet is still sentenced to death,

but the death is a spiritual death. The death that is spoken of would be a life spent in an eternity in hell.

One might wonder what the allure is to the occult and its practices. For most, it stems from the desire to control their own life, and to be able to manipulate the events around them. For some people, they have difficulty believing that God is in control of their life, and are unable to let God control their life. To let some other force control their life would involve giving up control themselves which may leave people feeling vulnerable and hesitant of what would happen if they surrendered to God. Some of these feelings of insecurity stem from perhaps not knowing God, or from misinformation. The reality is that God loves all of His children very much- even the lost, desires to have a relationship with them, and everything He does is for our betterment. God is a loving God. The first step out of this situation is to know who you are in Christ, and who God is. The website www.blueletterbible.com has an excellent resource on this topic.

What God had designed for His glory, and His purpose Satan indeed has perverted. Many people do not know what the gifts of the spirit are, how they operate, and many are convinced that they aren’t for today. This is how so many people fall into the occult trap- they just don’t know. The truth is that the gifts of the spirit are for today, and are relevant. The danger is that many souls are operating in sin because they do not have the revelation that Satan is perverting something that God created. It may be comforting to talk to a loved one, but it is dangerous when you know that it isn’t really your loved one you are speaking with. When you begin to be surrounded with demonic activity, life isn’t comforting anymore (and it does happen!) Trust in God for your future- He will reveal it if you ask. He’s waiting, and His promises are always yes and amen.

If you feel this excited about writing, then Faith Filled Family needs you!

If you're a passionate writer, and want to share your heart to help families live in victory, please contact us at: michelledanko@shaw.ca

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What Did You Say?

Are Tongues For Today?

By Israel Ikhinmwin “Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.” (Ephesians 4:8)

When we look into what Jesus the Christ, the Messiah came to do, I believe this verse in Ephesians is fitting. The verse explains what His crucifixion actually accomplished and indicates to us what He left for us. Jesus promised His disciples His Holy Spirit, Which is accessible to all those who wait and obey His teachings (Acts 5:32). There are a number of gifts which we see in the New Testament, specifically in 1 Corinthians 12, which shows the reader in verse 7 that these gifts are given to create profitable outcomes. As we will look into clear examples of the gifts covered in this article, we will be able to identify why God gave us a gift so great (His Spirit) and how the gifts which come with the Holy Spirit actually benefit the believer. Looking from a contrasting view, we will also see how the devil (Satan), who is the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10) attempts constantly to manipulate God’s will with his own wicked devices.

The first gift I will discuss is the interpretation of tongues. This is where the Spirit of God allows an individual to understand a language which is not their own. So for example, if I was speaking Spanish and you didn’t have any understanding, the Holy Spirit could interpret what I was saying for you in order to allow you to understand what was being said. A scriptural example of this can be found in Acts on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). Like most of the feasts, people would come back to Jerusalem to celebrate and during this period the Bible highlights eighteen nations from which men came to worship.

It is stated in verse 6 that everyone heard them speak in their own language, which highlights to the readers that the Spirit of God was, in fact, interpreting for all these people present. Everyone could now understand what was being spoken. The interpretation of tongues is even accredited to the Most High in verse 11. The more and more God’s people were scattered abroad, the more likely it would be that new languages would be learned, this would cause a break in communication. This is why God allowed

his gift, as it would bring his people from different nations closer together again. By looking at this example we can clearly see why this is a gift from God and how it can be used.

The next gift, which is the gift of speaking in tongues, is when God’s Spirit, which resides inside the believer, is in direct communication with the Father. The Holy Spirit in this instance is in fact acting as an intercessor. We can see this in Romans 8:26, which reads “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” There are times in our walk with the Lord when we have no idea what to say to Him or what to pray for. This is when we are able to utilize the gift of talking in a heavenly language which cannot be understood.(unless someone is present with the interpretation). The above scripture uses the word infirmities which can be taken as weaknesses or lack, as in a lack of knowledge.

This, I believe, is one of the most underrated gifts by the believer. I will give you a personal example of when this gift benefits me. When I have lost something, instead of messing everything up I will stop and begin to speak in tongues and as I begin to do so, God, by His Spirit, will reveal to me where I have placed the item. Speaking in tongues is something which benefits and refreshes an individual. Speaking in tongues is a gift that those who feel helpless can use to draw out from God. Paul highlighted in 1 Corinthians 14:2-4 that when we speak in tongues we speak to God and edify ourselves. Speaking in tongues is useful and I advise it. God wants us to be prosperous, spiritually and physically. By utilizing this gift we draw out from God’s well.

The last gift I will analyze is the ability to discern the various spirits. This is vital in our walk as Jesus Himself stated that wolves would come in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15). Many people will portray

a similarity to Christ but are far from the Lord’s ways. Not everyone that will come will be sent from the Most High or will have God in their heart.

I will use this opportunity to focus on two Biblical examples. These two examples highlight how God’s Spirit being available to discern was key. The first is taken from Acts 16:16 which reads “And it came to pass, as we [followers of Christ] went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.” This woman simply saying the Name of Jesus wasn’t enough! Paul understood that past saying Jesus, a lifestyle and spirit would have to follow. Paul could discern by the Holy Spirit, indicating that the woman was possessed and needed rebuking. To have a Spirit which discerns is the difference between life and death, as Hosea 4:6 reads God’s people perish for a lack of knowledge. When we have limited or no knowledge at all, we place ourselves in a predicament in which we can be taken advantage of.

The second example I will use from the scriptures is John 8:44, where Jesus called the Pharisees “offspring of the devil”. The Pharisees were those who would be held in high esteem, learned in scripture, and respected in the community (righteous). Jesus didn’t certify them however; He discerned that these people were in fact unrighteous wicked men who didn’t love God but loved a system. Our discernment is key!

We see how God created these gifts for our betterment. The devil clearly doesn’t like this and he causes individuals to do opposing acts to those of the believer. Where God gives His children access to the spiritual realm for edification, insights by

speaking in tongues and the gift of discerning which spirits are right, the devil will encourage others to enter the spiritual realm in a way God hasn’t prescribed for us. On top of this Satan will encourage the worship of evil spirits and gods. When Elijah was on Carmel he challenged false prophets to a battle (1 Kings 18:17-39). He would call upon his God and they would call on theirs. The false prophets cried all day, trying to channel evil spirits to do a miracle but to no avail. This also showed how God ultimately prevails over all evil. Where God gave us the gift of speaking in tongues to edify ourselves, Satan wants us to talk to demons and wicked spirits (such as in seances, ouija boards, or through a medium) in order to damage ourselves. In the text quoted we also see how these false prophets went on to do harm to their own bodies.

As well as giving us these gifts, God warns us many times to not take part in things He hasn’t established for us. One example is taken from Deuteronomy 18:10-12 “there shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord: and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee.” God warns us not to use these techniques or methods because He has set in order something far better. Contacting evil spirits is not needed as God gives us access to His Holy Spirit which is far better and accessible.

Where God tells us to contact the living God, the devil encourages us to contact the dead. Saul was a king who had made some fundamental mistakes and, instead of seeking true repentance, he ended up using a familiar spirit (1 Samuel 28) to raise Samuel who was dead. This was something which he had prohibited previously. Apart from this being a waste of time as Samuel highlights, Saul was trying to access something which he had no right to. He wanted to know what God was thinking and planning.

We see in Revelation 4:1 (John), Isaiah 6:1-7 (Isaiah) and Ezekiel 1 (Ezekiel) that God grants those who trust in Him access to Him and His throne. We need not contact the dead because our God is the God of the living (Luke 20:38). Saul was asked the question…why? Why did he contact the dead, Samuel asked. He was entering into territory he was not assigned to. God has a time for us to see Him and to hear from Him. Fear and unbelief are not the reasons which should entice us into wickedness; we must trust in the Living God! Finally I will highlight how, where God desires us to be walking and filled by his Spirit, (Romans 8:14) the devil wants to possess and oppress us. The devil will himself oppress people and send out his servants, which are demons, to possess and oppress. To be oppressed means to be tormented and targeted by the wicked one. The story of Job is enough to see how Satan will take away from someone’s life in order to get them to leave God. Satan oppressed Job to the point of death and Job remained loyal to his Maker. The devil wanted Job to be filled with bitterness and hatred but Job remained set on the King. We see many times in the New Testament how demons were sent to possess and oppress. To be possessed means to be inhabited by a demon or evil spirit. An example is Mark 5.

A man had been possessed by legion and was subjected to the tombs and being surrounded by death.

God, as I will say again, wants us to live. What did this demon possession scenario show? It shows what and where the devil wants us to be. The unclean spirit was later cast into swine and they drowned in the sea. He brings these spirits to kill us. The scripture says the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). Jesus came that we may have life and life more abundantly (same verse). This is one verse which highlights how God created gifts and the devil tries to counteract them.

What we see through this whole article is how God made gifts for us and how demons and evil-doers are sent to counteract this. Nonetheless, God is righteous and prevails over all.

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

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Who is the Holy Spirit?

it’s a miracle! or is it?

Can You Tell The Difference?

By Helen Murray

Mark 3:29 “Whoever blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. He is guilty of eternal sin.”

Luke 12:10 “And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.”

He is the Spirit of Truth which sets us free (of guilt, disease, etc). He is the Spirit of Life whom Jesus left with us! He is the One who roams the earth searching for those who truly seek God. He is the Spirit by whom the world is reconciled to God, by whom Jesus was conceived, by whom, in our own personal Pentecost, we are invested with Life and the Kingdom of Heaven.

He is our source.

The Spirit of Truth is all these things.

Rejection of truth Unbelief - is the unforgivable blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.

It makes way for The Father of Lies, the destroyer, the image maker, to take what belongs to God. The Father of lies has stolen from us the potential of being Christ to the world. The father of lies has whispered a language of false hope leading to death. He whispers it attractively, seductively, rationally, even scripturally (because he knows scripture back to front and can contort it beneficially).

He takes truth and twists it ever so slightly so that his lie is unrecognized and his

words resound in the undefended heart as reality, or at least desirable.

What then prevents us from doing the works that God has prepared for us to walk in - prophecy, healing, words of knowledge, words of wisdom, faith, tongues, interpretations of tongues, discerning of spirits? Yes, you guessed it. It’s believing lies, or contorted truth (the counterfeit). It is being seduced by that which is not real. It is laziness about veracity when our self-talk is in operation. It is comfort with our own culture. It is what we can get away with by not being accountable, or by trusting too much in God’s forgiving and playing on that.

Examples?

Believing lies or contortions of truth: eg “Freedom is doing what I want to do, when and how I want to do it”. Wrong! Freedom is knowing and trusting truth, whatever situation one finds oneself in, whether it be gaol, persecution, wealth or poverty, storm or blessing. John 8:32 states “If you abide in my word you are my disciples indeed, and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.”

Lies captivate and truth releases.

“Let not mercy and truth forsake you. Bind them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart.” (Proverbs 3:3) Believing in the counterfeit: witchcraft (seduction - visual, aural etc including in fashion! controlling spirit in male or female), fortune telling (tarot, crystal balls, tea-leaves etc) new age healing (which can sometimes seem to work, kinesiology, reiki, yoga, many others),’spiritual church’ or calling up the dead (which is the counterfeit of discernment of spirits), praying to totems, statues, etc.

Being seduced by what is not well said: “You’ll never manage that!

You have to be cool.

I won’t be your friend if ……

You don’t measure up (to expectations, the Barbie doll looks, etc).”

God’s Word says you are beautifully and wonderfully made (Ps 139).

Be bold (and dare) Joshua 1:6,7,9.

Learn wisdom Proverbs 9:10, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding,” (rather than being lead by so-called friends!)

Laziness about the veracity of self-talk: (the derogatory remarks of parents, teachers, elders, peers and abusers that continue to damage self-image.)

God makes you a new creature, the old has passed away (2 Corinthians 5:17). You have the victory over those sentiments in Christ. Your sins are removed as far from you as east is from west (Ps 103:12). That self-talk is seductive lies. You are not that former person, but now a champion, made over in the image of Christ. Change the self-talk!

Comfort with our own culture: For example: selecting our friends on the basis of their entertaining ability or status rather than their character and virtue, or accepting everything on tv at face value, going along with the crowd and not rocking the boat, accepting the latest fashion without discernment on modesty and elegance.

Accountability: ‘what they don’t know won’t hurt them - or me’. If we can’t be transparent and vulnerable, as was Jesus up there on that cross, then we are hiding something which is destroying us.

Trusting too much in God’s forgiving and playing on that: dangerous play! In the football game do you trust in the team to permit you mistakes? You could end up dropped from the team! So watch when

you make a promise, because whatever you do (good or bad) to another human being you are doing to God. Promise keeping is losing ground in our societies, yet we expect God to keep His promises.

So what about the miracles of healing we long to see today? In Acts people brought their sick to a place where Peter might walk by and his shadow might heal them. What did Peter have that we have not? Peter had the Spirit of Truth. He spoke His words loud and clear in all circumstances. He believed Him instantly. He acted accordingly . He never backed down or out. He was entirely sensitive to the Spirit of Truth at every instant, obedient, trusting, bold. He was a totally re-made man (cf the one who denied Jesus three times). He screamed for the Spirit of Truth to rule him. He was a fool for Christ, and like Christ, he did what he saw the Father doing.

As He did for Peter, The Spirit of Truth looks to reconcile men and women to God in all the miraculous power of His creativity, providing a super-abundance of all the spiritual gifts necessary for the Children’s food - prophecy, words of knowledge, healing, wisdom, faith, tongues and interpretation, discernment of spirits.

Satan will, of course, try to seduce us with lies “Hallowe’en is just a bit of fun,” (an introduction to witchcraft, and leading to human sacrifice which is still operative in some countries on the increase in western ones - YES - it happens! Ask Tate publishing company to send you “A Grown-up Child of Grace” by Anne Marie, the horrendous, true story of an American child brought up in witchcraft and released by Jesus).

Prophecy becomes “Reading tea-leaves and fortune-telling is harmless,” (about as harmless as the emporer’s new clothes in the old tale, or the third party in a marriage!), “It’s just the fashion,” (women are asked to dress with dignity and modesty, and not tease the men with the sight of what is for husbands only.)

“That’s business,” (absolute integrity is not a Sunday only affair!)

You can think of lots more of his lies! If you are in a study group, then workshop satan’s lies and see what comes out!

But if we want to see renewal of the Christian Faith in our countries, then we, individually and collectively, will pay one-eyed and single-minded attention to the Spirit of Truth (and the Word of God He inspired) in every aspect and moment of our lives. When we do that people will either be terrified of what goes on in church, (as when Annanias and Saphira lied to Peter) or be totally unable to resist the love and miraculous regeneration she offers.

Your study group could list the ways in which you could agree to do this together, and be accountable to one another. How powerful would that be!

In

At long last, a family-friendly fantasy that confronts – and resolves – the battle for the soul.

Imagine innocence of Light, the meek and good among us being unexpectedly consumed into a void of darkness ... into a world gone very wrong Imagine circumstances beyond your control that ensures your life will never, ever be the same Imagine being stripped of your identity with no past, present, or future while wandering within an empty space of nothingness What could you do - where would you go - how might you survive?

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The stark reality and consequences of being in God’s Light or in the darkness.

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In the Name of Jesus . . .Stop!

Taking our Authority In Christ

By Debbie Thurman

Certainly nonbelievers today — and even some believers — are confused by what Christians mean

when we say we are seeking to assert the authority of Christ in our lives. Does this mean we are “dominionists” who want to rule the earth and place everyone else under our oppressive Christian thumb? Does it mean we are to look down our self-righteous noses at others while administering justice as steely agents of Christ?

Those views are nonsensical and cultic, of course. However even those who claim to be followers of Christ are not always certain of what His atoning death and resurrection mean for us as we seek to rule the base parts of ourselves (born of our sin nature) and to minister His truth and grace to others.

When Jesus uttered the words, “It is finished!” on the cross, He drove the final nail in the coffin of sin and death. From that moment on, Satan became a defeated foe whose days were numbered, but who still is permitted to tempt and rule the human heart that is devoid of Christ. Jesus wants us to see that Satan’s game is limited, however. Satan uses the same tactic of deception over and over. He frequently comes disguised as an “angel of light” and his tempting message can sound quite appealing. He knows our weaknesses and our proclivity to his three basic temptations — “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life” (1 John 2:16). There is no family that is immune to the enemy’s attacks.

How does Jesus Christ empower us with authority to banish the devil and all his spiritual manifestations in the world? The key is obedience. Our authority as Spirit-filled Christians is centered on obeying the commandments of God. Jesus’ authority, while He dwelt among us, emanated from His willingness to obey his heavenly Father, even to the point of a terrible death on the cross. Paul confirmed that the Holy Spirit is given “to those who obey Him” (Acts 5:32).

But why should we obey Christ and claim His authority? Namely, we have the confidence to do so because of the doctrine of revelation. “It is a basic tenet of the Christian religion that we believe what we believe not because human beings have invented it but because God has revealed it. In consequence, there is an authority inherent in Christianity which can never be destroyed,” said John R. W. Stott, one of the most influential preachers of the 20th Century.1 God has revealed Himself through His spoken word, through His inspired written word and through the word made flesh, Jesus Christ. When we know Christ intimately, we are compelled to obey God’s word. We delight in it. Nothing else makes sense.

The authority we have in Christ, sealed by His atoning blood, reveals Satan as the desperate, defeated foe he is. He must submit to Christ. He knows well who he is. “At the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:10-11).

When we place Jesus, rather than Satan, on the throne of our lives, we break sin’s curse. At that point,

we are able to see that marvelous truth in Martin Luther’s hymn, “A Mighty Fortress” — “One little word shall fell him.” Jesus. When we pray in Jesus’ name, our petitions and intercessions ascend to the very throne of God. His power is then released to work through us.

The Spirit of Truth vs. the God of This World After Jesus ascended to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower all believers below . “You will receive power from on high,” He promised His disciples. “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father” (John 14:12).

The Spirit that connects Christ with His followers empowers us to pass on the very teaching, encouraging, rebuking and comforting we receive from Him. “These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you,” Paul told Titus (2 Titus 2:5). “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth,” wrote Paul to Timothy (2 Tim. 2:15).

It is far easier to speak a watered-down truth that tickles the ear and represents only the softer side of Jesus than it is to speak the whole truth that also takes into account the harsher, unadulterated things He said. It is tempting to “go along to get along” and to not make waves, to seek the approval of man rather the approval of God. But that is not taking the full authority of Christ into the world. As parents, teachers and disciples of newer converts, Christians have a grave responsibility to represent the whole truth wherever we go. We cannot know God’s best for our lives apart from His authoritative word.

Even with the truth staring us in the face, some choose to cling to their contrary beliefs. For centuries, it was believed that Aristotle was correct in teaching that a heavier object would fall at a faster rate than a lighter one. Not until 1589 did Galileo test the hypothesis by dropping two different weights off the tower of Pisa. Of course, they both hit the ground at the same moment. Even so, those watching refused to accept this proven law of gravity. This begs the question: If Christ Himself appeared and spoke to us, as He did to Paul on the road to Damascus, how many would believe Him and accept His authority? The God of this world blinds many to the truth.

Of course, Jesus would not have given us the Great Commission to go into the world with the Gospel and make disciples without also providing us with the authoritative means to carry it out as His emissaries. One of the most powerful yet overlooked parts of the New Testament is Jesus’ high priestly prayer in John 17. As He was about to take His agonizing trek to Calvary, Jesus prayed for the disciples He had chosen to birth his church, but also for all believers who would hear the Word through them: “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me. The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one …” (John 17: 20-22).

If that is not a transference of divine authority to you and me, nothing is! Look further at what Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus: “Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory. For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened

with power through His Spirit in the inner man. …” (Ephesians 3:13-16).

Paul gives specific instructions in Ephesians 6 on how we are to take up the full armor of God to withstand the spiritual warfare that comes against us: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6:12-13).

Remember, Jesus had said that the gates of hell would not prevail against His Church. That is a powerful promise upon which we still stand today. Paul also reminded believers that, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Tim. 1:7).

Offering the Ministry of Reconciliation Because we have the full authority of Jesus Christ at our disposal in this world, we can take the vital “ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18) to others.

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians. 5:20).

Being reconciled to God through Christ brings with it the fruit of the Spirit.

In other words, our basic nature is altered and our actions reflect that. Our Offering the Ministry of Reconciliation Being reconciled to God through Christ brings with it the fruit of the Spirit. In other words, our basic nature is altered and our actions reflect that.

Our common infirmities — the physical, emotional and spiritual maladies inherent in our sin nature — come under the authority of Christ’s atoning blood and His healing Spirit. Our minds are renewed, our spirits are set free and our physical constitutions are made stronger. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians that some are even accorded the spiritual gift of healing. Testimonies of miraculous healings, presumably facilitated through this gift, abound.

The fruit of the Spirit presents the picture of humility, which is a reflection of Christ. He asks us to be yoked with Him — sharing in His authority as He shares in our burdens — for He is “humble in heart.”

It is important to remember that the Christian is commissioned to carry to the world “an authoritative Gospel in a humble personality,” said P.T. Forsyth in 1907.2 We must take care, then, not to overstep our bounds as we walk in the authority of Christ.

Today, we live in a postmodern culture that is greatly influenced by the false doctrines of relativism and humanism. Many people, uncoupled from the moorings of faith that have held us firm through the ages, now turn to a smorgasbord of beliefs they cobble together in their search for meaning or significance.

They no longer set their compass by the God of the Bible and Jesus Christ — “the way, the truth and the life.” If ever a culture needed to be reconciled to God, it is this one.

Discipling Our Children Can we place our hopes for restoring an authoritative view of Christ in the next generation? A chief mission of Christian parents is to lead their children to reconciliation with Christ and to help them to walk

out their faith. Having family devotions which drive home the importance of our authority in Christ can help our children put on the full armor of God before they go out to face the world each day. Certainly parents and grandparents are to model their own humble Christian walk for their progeny. The most important lessons in life are more easily caught than taught.

When our kids come to us with tough questions, are we prepared to answer from a Biblical perspective? Nothing focuses us on our own lives and keeps us on our toes scripturally like being concerned for our children’s spiritual growth.

“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16).

That’s where we begin and end.

We can offer our children good, faith-based reading materials at their level to supplement our own teaching and that of the Bible. Encourage them to read biographies of faith heroes and to keep a devotional journal, writing down meaningful quotes from Christian leaders. Memorize scripture together. Get them around other godly role models.

We ought never to be afraid of sharing with our children stories from our own youth that demonstrate our folly or how we learned to overcome and grow. They need to hear that we were once just like they are and that we made mistakes. David prayed in the Psalms that God would “not remember the sins of my youth.”

Ideally, Christians are to stand as bridges between two worlds — the Word and the culture. We need enough familiarity with the Bible to grasp its timeless truths, but we also need to be acquainted enough with the culture to offer timely, relevant teaching to our children, who are bombarded with the world’s dangerous influences daily. Discuss current events in your household and look for meaningful lessons to share from them.

When our homes are places of refuge and of truth-based learning, we can more easily carry that authoritative foundation with us into the world. Our churches, likewise, will be repositories of truth as we stand on the authoritative word of God in our discipleship and teaching.

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The Great Halloween Deception: The Finagler Versus the Spirit of Truth “ It’s about the candy.”

“We dress up as Christian characters- nothing evil!”

“Everyone is celebrating Halloween.”

“It’s just a fun holiday. Nothing serious. Just good clean fun.”

OR IS IT?

They met in the hallways, bumping each other accidentally?

Provocatively Oh, my apologies,” Astute

was quick to reconcile the mistake.

“It’s the yin and the yang. They emote together, ebbing and flowing, waxing and waning,” declared the finagler, thrusting his body as if to demonstrate his point. “They play upon the sea of your life in endless dance, accord and dis-chord harmonizing together, agreement and aggression flirting with each other.”

“What logic can this be?” asks Astute.

“Can’t you see it?” accuses Finagler. There is good and bad in every man, bound up together and motivating his every move.

“You speak some truth,” concedes Astute, “yet it doesn’t ring true. There is more to it.”

“Ah, you want to complicate things”. Finagler pokes a derisive finger at the puzzled figure of Astute.

“It’s obvious, you fool. Men do good things, and men do bad things, all in the same day.”

“So it may seem”. Astute looked directly at Finagler, whose lip twisted up to the left, although his eyes were direct. “But what is the motivation for those things?”

“Motivation is always by desire.” Finagler was triumphant with this answer. “Science proves it. The five levels of need motivate everything. All of marketing operates on this principle. That’s what makes the economy work.”

Astute began to flounder at this remark. He acknowledged that all this could be observed time and time again, yet it felt rickety and unsafe. He looked down and shuffled his shoes as he considered the point. “What say you, Spirit of Truth?” He turned to the silence for a moment to listen, and heard a gentle murmur. “Desire must be disciplined to create balance”. Balance.

“Desire must be disciplined to create balance if it is to have a good effect.” He looked directly into Finagler’s fishy face for the reaction.

“Balance! Now you are getting flowery with your language. Desire creates its own balance in the market place – the balance between purchases and sales, the balance between having and not having, the balance between joy and sadness, liking and not liking, wanting and not wanting, friendship and antagonism, you name it. The balance is in the market, in the give and take, always. Man is evolving and evolution decrees the balance of nature.”

“But nature is out of balance.” Astute was sure of his ground here. Destruction was evident everywhere if you studied nature. And the main problem was mankind himself. So how would desire create balance in a badly disrupted world where war was paramount, starvation the norm, wealth belonged to a tiny minority who manipulated the market place to their own benefit, and the relief of suffering was miniscule. He decided not to proceed with the argument which was totally unproductive, but just to make a statement for his own satisfaction. He turned to go.

“Yes, nature is out of balance,” Finagler touched his arm, but Astute recoiled adroitly, “but man is becoming highly evolved, and his science will eventually get the balance right.” Finagler broke out into a broad grin of satisfaction, but that lip still twisted up cunningly. Meanwhile it’s Hallowe’en, so it’s time to get out and play trick or treat. Are you coming out with us tonight? I dare you. Or are you chicken?”

“That’s called manipulation, and I won’t be part of that.” Astute was quickly cognizant of the bullying tactics of the Hallowe’en games. He was also aware of its ancient roots in human sacrifices, and the power of fear to control people. It’s only a young practice in modern society, but its roots are frightful and ominous. “I’ll do everything I can to stop the practice, especially as it applies to children.”

“As for science generating a balance in nature, all I can see is the huge developments in war, extinction, mind control, and devastation of resources, distribution of rubbish - even in space, economical breakdown. I don’t see any brakes on hunger, malnutrition, exploitation, greed and all the other terrors of civilization. Philanthropy is no match for these expedients.”

“Ah, come on. You are too harsh.” Astute cringed as Finagler put his arm around his shoulder in fake fatherly fashion. “Hallowe’en is only a bit of fun, and science has to produce the goods or we’ll all be gone! Lighten up! Let your hair down! Enjoy yourself. Everyone else is. We all have the right to party however we like in this country. It’s undemocratic to object. Don’t be a spoilsport. Come on.”

But Astute strode away fast from that lopsided grin, and hurried o the chapel where people were celebrating Jesus with singing and dancing, and telling their amazing stories. The Spirit of God was healing, changing broken lives and freeing from addictions. People were coming there in droves and he couldn’t keep away!

Don’t, and Stay Away!

By Brian Knapp

“There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God – having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Some of these terrible things seem obvious. But the fact is, being around these kind of people can erode your walls of protection and they suddenly some don’t seem so bad. We can get caught up in and join in on things we never imagined we would. Some things seem harmless, but are they?

“Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium, or spiritist, or consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.” Deuteronomy 18:10-12 Some of these things, like being a medium or talking to the dead, may seem harmless or maybe even a good thing, like a medium who helps the police. The problem is, when you get involved in the spirit world there are evil spirits who are very active and you can get sucked in. At first they can seem good or helpful. But there is a reason to stay away. It was Satan who led Adam and Eve astray and brought sin and destruction into the world. Satan is the most evil of them all. Yet this is how he is described in Isaiah 14:12 “How you have fallen from heaven O morning star, son of the dawn!” Satan has fallen from heaven with his followers. Satan is the father of lies. He will lie to you to pull you into his snare.

Satan’s lies are especially deceiving because they are partial lies, there is a little truth in them. He spins them so it appears they are true. “Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God made. He said to the woman ‘Did God really say you must not eat from any tree in the garden?’ The woman said to the serpent, we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say ‘You must not eat of the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’ ‘You will not surely die’ the serpent said to the woman. ‘For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil!’ When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her and he ate it.

The lie to Eve appeared true because she did not physically die, the death God spoke of was a spiritual death that comes when we are separated from Him. The devil, trying to keep his own power, has been deceiving us like this ever since - trying to make us think God is trying to keep things from us. Actually God is trying to protect us. He knew we could not handle knowing good and evil. When everything is pure, all is beautiful. Once the evil is seen we are tempted to choose it, especially when

it is dressed up.

Once we fall into the devil’s trap, he becomes the accuser. He has put himself between us and God. It took Christ to remove the barrier. But to keep that restored relationship intact we must not allow Satan to come between us & God again. We have the authority to trample the devil if he tries to get between us and God. “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” Luke 10:18-19 King Saul fell into the trap. He started down the path of distancing himself from God until he heard from the Lord no more. He eventually went to a medium to try to reach the prophet Samuel, who had died. Even though Saul was trying to seek a godly man in this instance it was still wrong. “Then Samuel said to Saul, ‘Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?’” 1 Samuel 28:15. This was the last straw. Samuel finally told Saul that the Lord would give him and Israel over to the Philistines, “tomorrow you and your sons will be with me.” 1 Samuel 28:19 We fall into Satan’s trap if we continue down a path that leads away from God. We get desperate and try anything to see God’s presence. All we need to do is seek the Lord for it is the better way; it is the only way. Saul went down the wrong path and got involved with things he should not have. It ultimately led to his destruction.

We are blinded when we are involved with these things. Simon the Sorcerer was one of those. “Now there was a certain man named Simon, who formerly was practicing magic in the city, and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great; and they all from the smallest to greatest were giving attention to him saying, ‘This man is what is called the Great Power of God.’” Acts 8:9-10 The people were deceived by Simon, thinking he was from God. When the apostles came speaking the full truth about Christ, people believed. Simon saw the great power of people receiving the Holy Spirit when the apostles laid hands on them, he wanted that power. He saw his power through sorcery was nothing in comparison. He went to Peter saying, ‘Give this authority to me as well, so that everyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.’ But Peter said to him, ‘May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God.’” Acts 8:19-21 Peter went on to tell Simon to pray that to “the Lord that if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity.” The key here is, if possible. Simon has been involved in the lies of Satan and may not be able to get right with God. If you go down this path of involving yourself with things that are detestable to God, there may be no way back.

Once Satan gets you believing his lies it is a difficult path back.

These things are detestable to the Lord because He knows where they lead. They lead away from Him and ultimately to death. King Saul’s death happened long before his physical death. It happened when he went down the path leading away from God, that was his spiritual death. Spiritual death is much more painful than any physical death can be. Spiritual death is eternal. Getting involved with the spirits of this world through divination or sorcery, interpreting omens, engaging in witchcraft, or casting spells, or through being a medium, or spiritualist, or consulting the dead only leads to destruction. Consult only God through Jesus Christ.

Through Him we can overcome, but the enemy will continue to try until the end. We must be diligent and obey God and stay away from evil and not partake in it.

When you Grow up and Get. . .Single

By Stephanie Huffman ISBN-10: 0-615-31246-2 ISBN-13: 978-0-615-31246-0 Available at: http://www.whenyougrowupandgetsingle.blogspot.com Price: $14.99 U.S.

When you Grow up and get Single is an inspirational book for women of all ages. Regardless of your marital status, When you Grow up and get Single in an invaluable resource to women as it allows them to gain insight into themselves, and what makes you, and a female, whole. It is also a must read for any young woman entering the dating scene as it indirectly offers advise on how to avoid many common dating pitfalls.

The author, Stephanie Huffman really connects with readers on a deep level as she openly discusses life as a single person and dispels myths created by society surrounding not being married. She describes single life in a very humorous, real, and relatable way that makes the novel entertaining and captivating from beginning to end. Stephanie uses her own life experiences woven into her message that draws readers in immediately leaving the reader with a feeling of being loved, understood, appreciated, and empowered.

This novel isn’t just a book on being single . . . it is much more than that. Stephanie discusses common myths that plague the single person. She attacks the myth that there is something wrong with you if you aren’t married, such as the comments that you are “being too picky” (why should you settle?), the belief that you are unattractive (many successful attractive women are single), and many more.

Stephanie gives women a warm genuine belief that they are attractive, and that you can live happily being single whether you are single by choice, or waiting for that special someone. Stephanie recounts her own experiences throughout the novel, and makes some wise observations. . . to be happy with who you are now.

The book also discusses handling comments from family on the subject of marriage, how to cope with being by yourself (friends play a key role), handling death of a loved one, job loss, trials in life, time management, etc. Stephanie’s tips on time management alone make this book a must read!

I personally enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I enjoyed Stephanie’s humorous way of viewing events that can be perceived not to be funny at the time. What I especially enjoyed was the message that there is nothing wrong with being single, and that we should turn to God to make us whole - not the opposite sex, or other people. It is when we are whole within God and are secure in who we are that we can give to others. Friends play an important role because they are there to guide you through both the good and bad times. The book also includes questions at the end of each chapter for selfreflection.

For Faith Filled Family Magazine, I would rate this book an A+. The stories that Stephanie uses are relatable, but not vulgar. There are no sexual connotations or innuendos used in the book at all. It is very clean, and there is no profanity. I would recommend it to every woman as a must read on their list of books.

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Mighty Man of God or Mouse?

What is God’s Design for Husbands?

Are we Folowing it?

By Brian Knapp

“But know that the Lord has set apart the godly man for Himself; the Lord hears when I call to Him. Tremble and do not sin; meditate in your heart upon your bed and be still. Offer the sacrifice of righteousness, and trust in the Lord.” Psalm 4:3-5

The Lord wants men to be godly husbands. He told us to “Love your wives even as Christ loved the church, and gave Himself up for it.” Ephesians 5:25 To be a godly husband and know how to love your wife you need to ask yourself a couple of questions.

The first one is: Is He the Lord of my life?

“And why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord’, and do not do what I say? Everyone who comes to Me, and hears My words, and acts upon them, I will show you whom he is like; he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation upon the rock; and when a flood arose, the river burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been will built. But the one who heard, and has not acted accordingly, is like a man who built a house upon the ground without any foundation; and the river burst against it and immediately it collapsed, and ruin of that house was great.” Luke 6:46-49 If you want to call Him Lord and have His strong foundation for your life and be godly, dig deep and fill your mind, your heart and your soul with His Spirit. He will teach you how love your wife.

We all have trials in our lives. While we live in this world there is danger all around us. There are those who are in ruin and want to bring you down with them. But when you have that strong foundation, Christ, you will be able to withstand the river bursting upon you. Jesus after all is our purest example of a godly husband. We, the church, are His bride. Christ stood strong through persecution, resting on the foundation of His Father. When we stand strong our brides can feel secure, just as we are secure in Christ.

To grow in your godliness be as John the Baptist said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30 As He increases in your life you must decrease in your natural desires and live up to His desires. As you build your foundation you will know His desires more and more. The desires of Jesus are for His bride. As a man lives his life in Christ his desires will be for his bride. A man will give it all for that which he desires.

The second question is: What is in your heart?

“Search me, O’ God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:23-24

Have Him change your heart. Give the Lord full access to search out all the pain; all the anger; all that holds you back. Allow Him to lead you to a better way that is everlasting; everlasting healing; everlasting freedom.

A man cannot truly be the husband God wants him to be if he is holding on to pain and anger from the past. Allow the Lord to search your heart and set you free. Is the Lord dwelling in your heart?

“Surely I will not enter my house nor lie on my bed; I will not give sleep to my eyes, or slumber to my eyelids; until I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob.” Psalm 132:3-5 If He is dwelling in your heart making you godly He is there to help you through the tough times to come. He must be there for you to be a godly husband.

“But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrine of demons.” I Timothy 4:1.

This scripture goes on to mention some of these false teachings.

“In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and sound doctrine which you have been following. But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also the life to come.” I Timothy 4:6-8 The word of God is meant to teach us to achieve our goal of being godly. We become godly as we grow closer to God in our spirit. We become godly as we build our relationship with Him. The more we learn about the Father, the closer we get to a godly life. Being godly will give us the strength to not fall away from the faith. When a man is strong in his faith, only then can he lead his family in faith.

We are required to lead our household as Christ leads the church. “For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body.” Ephesians 5:23 We are to be the spiritual leaders leading our wives. We need to be leading our wives and children in the faith. Sounds nice to be in charge but, remember when you are in charge you are responsible for the household and remember the part of loving our wives as Christ loved the church. That is a sacrificial love. Men are to give it all for their family in teaching the spiritual truths of God that teaching should be mainly by example.

It will be tough to live this godly life, “Yea, and all that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12 The world hates the godly man because in him they see their failures and do not want to admit. They want to continue in their earthly pleasures without conviction.

“The evil men and imposters shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:13.

Yes, the evil men will try to deceive the godly. But God knows this and will be there to protect you in the times of persecution. “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and keep the unrighteous under punishment unto the Day of Judgment; but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in lust of defilement, and despise dominion. Daring, self-willed, they tremble not to rail at dignities.” 2 Peter 2:9-10 This ungodly world may have beaten up your wife prior to your relationship beginning. She may have a great deal of pain from her past. The Lord will do the healing, a godly husband’s job is to love and show by example. In the stormy times be like an oak tree, bend but do not break. Your wife needs you to stay strong against the onslaught. Many times in my prayers for my wife God has answered consistently with ‘Brian your job is to love her, the rest is mine’.

Start now on the path to godliness. The past doesn’t matter; it is only where you are headed now that counts. You may have inflected pain upon your wife before you were on the right path, so stay consistent. She must see that consistent change to open up and forgive. She will need healing. Keep true and wait on the Lord to lead you to complete reconciliation.

W

Lost: The Godly Woman.

Have You Seen Her?

By Aislynn Holt

e are being attacked! The very woman that God has called us to become is being mangled by the world and its’ ideologies of what a woman should be. To be a successful woman here is what you must do: 1) straight from high school go to college 2) graduate and get a job 3) get married to a man of equal talent or ability (this can get switched with number 2 as long as it happens) 4) have children, but get back to where you at work as soon as possible 5) stay in control of your home, life, and situations. We are woman, and we ought to be able to juggle everything and be in control at all times. Picture it, the “We Can Do It!” motto with the beautifully make upped Rosie the Riveter, if you listen closely you may hear Helen Reddy’s, “I am woman hear me roar!”

I remember growing up wanting nothing more than to be a wife, a mother, and career woman that lived in a mansion. Well, that is what my M*A*S*H game result came up as.

Sure there were many other results, but this was the one that I was going to stick to. It seemed the most logical to me for no other reason than my mother portrayed this exact portrait minus the mansion. That was just a wonderful aspect of the game; there was a lack of reality. As Christian women, we fight the temptation of facing true reality because fantasy is so much more exciting, but I can tell you that facing the reality of a Christ centered life will indeed be the most exciting adventure you can take on.

Though the world wants us to dream of success in the work place we begin to forget the success of living in the light of Christ. If we bury ourselves in scripture we will find that we are to be opposite of the “hear me roar” generation. There are three categorizes to woman-

hood (some intersecting at some point): the young women, the wife, and the older woman.

The Young Women In 1 Timothy 2: 9-11 Paul writes, “Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and selfcontrol, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness-with good works. Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.” (ESV) As a Godly woman we are called to be presentable, modest, and have self control. We are not to be showy and bringing attention to ourselves, but we are to stay quiet and submissive. It is far cry from our sex driven culture with bras showing through shirts and shorts that can easily be mistaken for under garments to cloud our minds with what is the norm. Paul tells Timothy that this is not normal, but a woman who gives herself respect and allows her heart to submit is one that proclaims her godliness.

The Wife As we incorporate our life as a single woman we have duties as a wife to the man that God designs just for us. The model of a marriage is that of Christ’s relationship with the church. Paul again writes about what a Godly woman looks like as he writes to the church is Ephesus in Ephesians 5:22-23, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.” (ESV) One of the most beautiful things about being a Godly woman is that we get the rare opportunity to model the church. God has given us the duty to listen to the head of the body and submit to him as Christ’s bride does for Him. In James, the body of Christ is warned against worldliness, and now more than ever we are called to resist the devil and not conform to this world.

The Elderly Wise Woman We have a fear of age, but as an older woman in Christ, the obligations we have to the young woman are imperative. In Titus 2, Paul wrote to Titus about what sound doctrine looked like for the people of God, and he made the role of a woman clear for the church. Paul tells us in Titus 2:4-5, “And so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.”

A godly woman is called to train up the young so that they can have the attributes of a true woman of Christ. Through life a woman experiences loss, anger, submission, and resentment when we age in Christ, He gives us a maturity that is worthy of teaching, worthy of nurturing, and worthy to be learned.

In the country of Peru, there are thousands of women working for free in churches to do this very thing.

They understand that if they spend their time on the communities of their country, it will impact the way they live. They are allowing God to use them to nurture and train up other mothers and children around them. There are great blessings awaiting us when we follow the will of God in our lives. There are circumstances beyond our power like a husband that leaves or jobs that over takes, but these are things that our Father knows. This does not stop the importance of staying sober minded, self-controlled, and kind.

A godly woman is one that knows her role in the body of Christ, and she embraces it to

glorify God. She understands that in today’s standards it is not popular, but allows those sufferings to build her up for sanctification. If we do not openly discuss our views on Christ through conversation, our actions are beacons of light to those around us. May we adorn ourselves with the blood of Christ so that He may be the only thing those around us see when they look at us.

Pray for each sister in Christ because the devil is mighty enemy, and in this area of the church he is attacking hard. As a family we must put our guard up to resist him and his temptations. Remember what Christ made you for because in the world of conformity it can be easy to let the truth slip away.

“Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.” Proverbs 31:30-31 Hold strong sister. You are loved by omnipotent God!

Would that it Were

By Keith Wallis

Would that it were always like this: child-like hand safe at harbour in Father’s grip, viewing tomorrow’s distant clouds daubs in an ocean of blue.

A single wavelet gentle of touch ambling over the shingled hem of the sea’s rippling garment.

Grips change.

In forgetful moments, I won’t need anchorage and drift in the seductive undulations of life.

Then squalling, darker, clouds of reality obscure the horizon, reassuring touch of sand is beyond the reach of frightened toes.

Then it’s not the clasp of child but Father’s firm grasp

Discipling the Next Generation

By Sarah Kuepfer

I sit here with my newborn daughter on a blanket at my feet. My toddler and preschooler are outside with their older sister, enjoying the brisk fall weather and each other. My husband is watching and playing with them, and I can relax in the comfort of my parents’ home. My mother has supper cooking in the slow cooker, and the smells of warm stew are teasing my appetite. My father has a fire on in their fireplace, cozying up their already inviting home. This, to me, is family.

Comfort, warmth, food and friendship are what most of us think about at this time of year. It’s the time of year to gather together with loved ones, and celebrate family.

As believers, family is even more special, for many reasons. We have a larger family than just related by blood or marriage, but is also created by faith. Family is the form of the Church, the foundation of society and the fundamental representation of the Triune God. It is by family that we learn to relate to each other, to God and to the world.

God has instructions for family as He does for every other area of life. Family is incredibly important to God, and should be also vital to the Christian. In fact, the main qualification for any type of leadership in the Church is that one’s family has been and continues to be well managed and an example of faithfulness, respect, love, and kindness. Paul states that if we cannot lead our own families well, we have no business trying to lead the church.

A godly family begins with a godly, solid marriage. In the beginning, God created human beings to be together in families, and joined the first couple in marriage Himself. Their relationship was without barriers, originally, and they had complete intimacy: physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

They had complete trust in each other and in God. God designed us to long for that connection to another person: to be completely known... and accepted! This intimate, connected relationship is where our strengths shine and our weaknesses are protected. United in marriage, our efforts are multiplied, and our impact magnified.

A godly marriage starts with God. When both partners have a personal relationship with God, like a triangle, they grow closer together as they grow closer to God. Godly marriages are strengthened by our willingness to be honest, open and vulnerable. Paradoxically, we build a strong marriage by being willing to reveal weakness. Marriage is then fulfilled in our unity and teamwork. We are fully “one flesh” when our first response is about “we” not “me”.

It is in family that we best exemplify the Image of God. Genesis 1:27 says that man was created in His image, male and female. Together we fully show who God is. It begins with marriage, and

is completed with the first command God gave human beings: to be fruitful and multiply. God looks generationally. His promises to Abraham and his descendants were constantly to “you and your children.” Children are compared to “gifts”, “rewards”, and “crowns”. It is the security of a godly marriage, founded on God’s principles, that children best grow and thrive, and the Godly family achieves God’s purpose.

In order to have a godly family, godly parenting is key. Scripture says that the essential ingredients of godly parenting are consistent teaching, compassionate discipline and communal responsibility. Deuteronomy 6:5 instructs parents to teach their children the laws of the Lord, at every single moment of life, and not just with words, but with their example as well. Consistency is integral to effective parenting. If your words don’t match your actions, children are confused and often rebel. Proverbs lists the value of discipline in correcting children and preventing future pain for both child and parents, and Ephesians 6:6 expands on that by admonishing parents to temper their discipline with understanding, lest they provoke rebellion in their children. Psalms declares that God disciplines us like a father disciplines the son he delights in, showing us that it takes love and compassion to discipline appropriately. The examples given us in Joshua, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings of how the sins of one person affected the whole community show how God views the community’s responsibility of the raising of children. Leviticus gave instructions to parents on how to handle rebellious children, with the community’s help. In Matthew 18, Jesus also told us how to handle those who offend us, including our children, by appealing to the larger community of which we are a part, such as our local church. Godly parenting involves all these elements to raise godly children.

The effects of godly marriage and godly children are evidenced in the impact on the world. In Psalms 134, God compares godly children to arrows in a trained warrior’s quiver, going far beyond him to hit the target and accomplish a purpose. God can use our children to accomplish His purposes. In Psalm 139, God declared that each of us was uniquely created, and in Jeremiah 29, God promised a future and a hope for us. In families, we are trained, nurtured and prepared for that future. In Isaiah, God told us that He puts the lonely in families. Families are God’s way of showing His love to the world.

The holidays are soon upon us. This year, for my family, is especially sweet, with our new addition.

My daughters are excitedly anticipating being able to share their favourite traditions with their new baby sister, and our extended family is greatly looking forward to meeting her. We have more to celebrate this year. Every year, however, we can celebrate God’s love and provision for us, in giving us a family, whatever that may look like.

God puts us in families, whether that is the family of our birth, or the family of our second birth, the church. The community of family is so important to God. God started His story with a family, and finishes it with a family.

The Godly family is love in action. Thank God for His family, and for our families.

My Child

by Rodrigo A. Quiroz

I watched as you slept last night I saw the fears inside your mind I spoke to you inside your dream In hopes to calm the storm inside I know your every thought and dream I knew it all before your birth I knew you’d be where you are now Thinking that you are of no worth Know that I cry along with you When your heart is filled with pain I feel the tears that you pour out The tears you try hard to contain My heart aches for you; yes, for you When, from my path, I see you stray.

I died for you. Yes, you.

So your sins would all be swept away.

Do not forget I’m always here I’m by your side when you’re in need I’ve never given up on you So listen to me child and heed Pick up this broken life you lead Place all your burdens upon the cross Let not your heart daily bleed For I will love you at all cost I am the One who’ll steer your ship Through the storms of daily life I am the One who’ll light your path And pull you from your endless strife.

In me lies hope forever more In me, love and peace abound In me is life eternal And I will NEVER let you down I’ll pick you up and dust you off I’ll heal your many scars and wounds I’ll fill your heart with endless joy

I’ll be, to you, the perfect groom.

I tell you all these things so that you won’t lose hope.

I will ALWAYS be there. I will ALWAYS care.

I will ALWAYS stand right by your side.

I will ALWAYS lift you from despair.

I love you child.

I always have.

So wipe away your tears my child.

And let no more your heart be sad.

Living Twenty Years With A Ghost

By Shawn Wiggins

II always begin with a reference to a movie, and this time it is two movies I grew up watching, Ghostbusters and Poltergeist. They are horrible movies, but I did not really come from a christian home and they were what I was allowed to watch. Both movies keep spirits or the supernatural as external, and foreign, trying to make a new mythology and scare us. All movies along those lines have lots of lies and falsehoods thrown in so that we have to accept in order for them to scare us, and without a solid base it works.

In life though, we do have an option of living with a ghost. Not some translucent form who haunts us, moves things, and that we cannot “see”- but it is there and real. The Bible talks about the concept of the trinity, the Father (YHWH, God), the Son (Yeshua, Jesus) and the Holy Ghost or Spirit. All separate items and yet all part of the same loving God. David refers to the Spirit in the Old Testament when he says, “Take not your holy spirit from me!” Having committed a horrible sin, David was scared God was going to leave him and he did not want to lose that. In the Old Testament the spirit was set on very few people due to the spiritual condition because in the Old Testament, it is referred to as a cloak or garment.

The Holy Spirit was an external experience.

Jesus was anointed and, from my view, the last person to have the Spirit descend on him in the form of a dove. The Spirit then resided in him and bubbled forth in inspiration and by the words he used. In every situation he listen and heard the leading of the Spirit. He told the disciples that when he left he would send a counsellor to them.

Then we have the Holy Spirit in the book of Acts. God sending his Spirit to reside inside people and flow out of them. Our last outwards signs are the tongues of flame above their heads and the sound of wind. Then we have a book of people using the Holy Spirit within them, being temples of this Spirit, and ministering to others.

With that brief outline of scripture and the Holy Ghost, we come to my life and how I have seen this presence move and churn, starting many years ago. From decisions and wisdom that were well beyond my knowledge or experience to times to peace. The Holy Spirit has been written about before, and a thousand volumes cannot cover what is possible - here are a few snippets from my life that show you this reality and how it has affected me.

Protected Youth When I was a child I knew God was there. I could sense his spirit around me. I prayed as a child, not in big words and fancy poetry but in conversation with someone who was there!! Some who observed me at the time may have thought it was an imaginary friend I was speaking to, but it was not anything close to that. Imaginary friends do not give you tangible ideas, or speak to your very being in a way you cannot explain with words - when imagined they are of you and nothing more. The Holy Spirit was

there, ready to become a fountain inside me - affecting those around me with favour and getting me where I needed to go. I was sent to camp, church, and away with good people by my parents - and did not seem to get affected too badly by the corruption and violence that was in my family. When I did experience trials, God showed me using the Holy Spirit how to cope.

Junior High was when I started to see the corruption and darkness that was happening in my earthly family, and the Spirit instilled in me two things! The first was read the Bible starting in Proverbs, and learn the wisdom there - letting it soak in and stew inside. I was then inspired to go through book by book and read it all. It was then I started to ask questions of adults who never seemed to have the answer. Instead I was actually finding answers in scripture, the world was making sense and coming alive with the Holy Ghost’s help. The second thing was the Spirit let me know it was there and never leaving me. God had so much more for me and I was worth his time and trouble. These were the years when I considered suicide, and the Holy Spirit was what pulled me through. I was constantly told there is so much more out there for me, I don’t need to quit. It was the only reason I am here today!

When high school came along and I learned that God was not just there but doing stuff to help me along. He would supply me with means of getting to church in another city every week, he would inspire me to teach and challenge me to delve deeper into his words. I was involved with a charismatic movement called prairie fire, and at a church that encouraged the Holy Spirit to move. While people around me got drunk in the Spirit and laughed and had a fun time - I just enjoyed peace and literally felt my Father wrap his hands around me and tell me he loved me and I was worth something.

It was in High school I also found a book called “Chasing the Dragon!” by Jackie Pullinger - that book allowed me to understand that the Holy Spirit and praying in tongues can be an every day event. God loves us and does not posses us, he inhabits us if we allow him to flow. Do I allow my father and his spirit to flow all the time? NO! I am not perfect, but it is a relationship, and as with any relationship, there is a growing and a learning. To this day I still allow the Holy Spirit to speak through me when I pray!

My late teens and early twenties I made some missteps in relation to how I related to people and orginizations. There were misunderstandings and times I took it upon myself to lead, and God would show me - with either a gut reaction of uneasiness or giving me the peace. The Holy Spirit would inspire people to be in certain areas at certain times and we would meet up and enjoy kairos time.

The Holy Ghost in my life now gives me ideas and concepts - allowing me to draw from the past and build stories or articles. I see connections and and means that others seem to miss or cannot see because they are not supposed to. Currently the Spirit has been challenging me with various Holidays and what they mean and asking why I don’t dig deeper. Maybe we should trust our gut a little more, asking our father to allow his spirit to grow in us, so that no matter what comes along - we are not only ready, but aware of what needs to get done.

Ask Beverley . . .

Dear Beverley, I’m having a hard time with one of my coworkers. Although she and I do the same job, she acts superior because she has been with the company longer. She sets my lunch schedule and even gives me some of her work because she’s “so busy”. I’ve told my boss how this makes me feel and have asked him to help. He says he will speak to her but I don’t think he has.

I know I can’t change her, but Beverley can you help me change the way I react to her?

Stuck Dear Stuck, Your question is probably resonating with a lot of our readers. We have all had that one coworker who likes to be the centre of attention and run the office. You are right in that you can’t change her, you can only change your reaction to her.

When God places difficult people in our path, He usually does it to strengthen our character, deepen our faith and trust in him, and to help us find a peaceful solution to our problems. If you want some inspiration from the Bible, start reading the Psalms - they are full of wonderful wisdom for our daily lives. Psalm 37:1-6 is a perfect example: “Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.”

I pray that you will turn to God and His word. Let Him help you find a way to ease your difficulty.

Stay blessed, Beverley Are you in need of some sound Christian advice? Don’t know who to ask? Ask Beverley!

Please submit all questions to askbeverley@yahoo.com or anonymously on our website at www.faithfilledfamily.com

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“Ring!”

“Hello. Heaven on the line. How may I direct your call?”

“Wow, a real person!”

“You can relax. We are here to help you.”

“Is this really...”

“Yes, it really is Heaven on the line.”

“Wow!” He can’t seem to come up with a more appropriate word. He is amazed that they even take his call, especially if they have caller I.D. “How can we assist you? Do you have your want list there?”

“What do you mean?”

“Exactly why did you call Heaven in the first place? Most folks want something. What do you want?”

“I just wanted to be sure that this was really Heaven I was calling. That the God I pray to all the time was at the end of this line.”

“I can lay your fears to rest. This is the real deal. You have reached home-base for Heaven. This line is open 24-7 as you might put it. We are not under any time restrictions, so we say we are available to speak with you forever.”

“This is awesome. Are you the head secretary?”

“I am the one who answers this phone for the Almighty and I log each call in a book of remembrance.

See Malachi 3:16.”

“Yes, I remember that verse: ‘Then they that feared the LORD spoke often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.’ This is way cool!”

“So, while you’re on the line with us, what do you want or need?”

“Just to hear your voice and to know there’s something beyond this life.”

Phone Call to Heaven, Dial 000 Chapter two: Heaven on the line

By Donald Ford

“Oh, indeed there is. When I first arrived here, I saw this place as mind-blowing, unique and a real blast.”

“You sound like you’re from the sixties.”

“How perceptive of you. But there are folks here from all the ages, from every avenue and walk of life.

Every tongue, nation and tribe is represented here.”

All he can manage to say is, “Wow! I just called to say hello.”

“Don, you are quite unique yourself and will fit in well when you finally arrive here. Very few, if any, call to just say Hi. Thank you for dialing us. By the way, you made my day here in Eternity.”

“No, thank you! Tell the Father in Heaven I love Him!” “Tell Him yourself. He is standing right here!”

(To be continued with God speaking - don’t miss it!)

Author Notes This is a second phone call story, with more to follow. You may be surprised who picks up the phone on that other end. You may also be surprised to find who is in Heaven when you get there. It has been said that we will see people on the other side who we thought would never make it, and also that certain folks we thought were a shoe-in, didn’t arrive at all. Interesting, but sobering thought.

Entertainment Review

By Pauline Creedin

On DVD: Soul Surfer is an inspiring movie. It is the story of Bethany Hamilton, a young girl whose life revolved around surfing until the day that a tiger shark bit off her left arm. The movie explores the question that so many seekers have about God: “Why do bad things happen to good people?” It also tackles the question that some Christians face when in the valley: “Can I really do all things through Christ who strengthens me?” (Phillipians 4:13) Hollywood has watered down the inspiration that this movie could have provided. Christian values such as homeschooling, praise music, prayer, and quoted scripture are quietly displayed in the movie. Meanwhile worldly motivations such as sneaking out behind parents’ backs, beer drinking, teens wearing and modeling bikinis are openly presented. The result is a lukewarm message.

Like Jesus, I would rather that it were hot or cold. I would rather that it were either a secular movie or completely Christian. As it is, I cannot recommend it wholeheartedly the way that I wanted to. But that said, there are scenes and dialog that are very inspiring. And during the credits, there are some home videos of the real Bethany Hamilton, whose witness shines through as she claims the name of Jesus.

So in conclusion for Faith Filled Family, I give this movie a grade of C+. Soul Surfer was released on DVD August 2, 2011 and is available at retailers everywhere, MSRP $19.99.

Appropriate for viewers over 13; Rated PG.

On your Mp3: Sweet, Sweet Sound by Sarah Reeves is worth looking up on iTunes or Amazon. The music is reminiscent of the “pop” sound that teens listen to right now like Katy Perry or Miley Cyrus.

Instead of singing about partying or boys, Sarah Reeves sings about Jesus and His amazing grace. If you like the upbeat music that gives you an “earworm” of praise, this is your album!

I enjoy every song on the album, which is rare for me. The songs lift up our Savior and are not afraid to say the name of Jesus – like some songs on the radio are. I was happy to stumble upon this Mp3 album on Amazon.

For Faith Filled Family, I give this album a grade of A+. Sweet, Sweet Sound by Sarah Reeves is available at music sellers everywhere. On iTunes and Amazon.com the album is available for MSRP $9.99. Appropriate for listeners of any age.

For Young Adult/Adult Readers: A Place Called Blessing by John Trent follows a young orphan named Josh whose broken life is a series of unfortunate events. While in one of his foster care homes, Josh accidently sets the house on fire, and someone dies from smoke inhalation. Considered damaged goods from the fire incident, no foster home will take him and he ends up in an orphanage until he comes of age. The story continues to follow Josh as he learns to forgive himself, forgive others, and learn the reality of redemption in this modern parable.

This book is an emotional rollercoaster. Though the motives of the main character are not always best, they are rational and he is very likeable. This book contains no nudity, drug use, or offensive language. Violence is minimized, but there are portrayals of sickness, death, and discussion of abortion. There are minor references to alcohol. The life portrayed and the hospitality of the Christian family are exemplary.

For Faith Filled Family, I give this book a grade of B+. A Place Called Blessing by John Trent is available at booksellers everywhere. On BN.com and Amazon.com the e-book is available for MSRP $9.99. Appropriate for readers over the age of 15.

For Middle School Readers: A Hole in the Fence by Diane Adams shines a light for boys and girls whose lives are less than perfect. The children of the story deal with bullying, abandonment, death in the family, estrangement from family members. Through it all, they learn that God is not to blame for the bad things that happen in their lives and they find that His love and light shine through. Ms. Adams wrote this book in order to connect with children who have lost a parent, are being bullied, or are just finding life to be tough. It’s a purposeful tale that renews a child’s sense of wonder, hope, and friendship. The characters are well-constructed but humanly flawed.

For Faith Filled Family, I give this book an A-. A Hole in the Fence by Diane Adams is available only as an e-book. At BN.com or Amazon.com the price is only MSRP .99 Cents. Appropriate for readers 10-14 years.

For Elementary School Age Children: Geronimo Stilton Save the Whale by G. Stilton is an excellent chapter book for young readers.

If anything can go wrong, it will for Geronimo Stilton.

He’s the mouse who never catches a break, and should never ask, “Could things go any worse?” It always can and usually does for him in his comedy/adventures. For young readers, the book is written in an upbeat manner that portrays Geronimo as always the gentleman who stumbles into adventures that he usually doesn’t want to have.

This book centers around nature and the environment.

New vocabulary words are introduced to the reader, as well as a bit of trivia. There are jokes, advice on what not to eat to avoid sea sickness, equipment used by professional whale watchers, whale identification, and much more educational material.

LET US AWARE, AWAKE, RAISE UP AND REST AS ”…THERE REMAINETH YET VERY MUCH LAND TO BE POSSESSED.” (JOSHUA 13:1)

Dearly Beloved in Christ., Greetings. Thank you for allowing me into your kind and prayerful midst as one of HIS kingdom bearers and kingdom builders.

Please, my fellow Christian laborers by your love and prayers help us in ERECTING, PROMOTING & ADVANCING His Kingdom, to save the Perishing Souls of “Primitive Hill Aboriginal Tribe People. My fellow Laborers whose names are in the "Book of life.

(Phil 4...-3). “One Generation Shall Praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts (Ps 145:4)…

As we are a very independent ministry, we want to work under your dynamic leadership & prayerful guidance!

I am Bro.( Rev. Dr .) Johnson, a Christian Missionary-Pastor from India. I am a resigned Teacher following God’s calling and vision. The Lord God , our only Savior had privileged me to contact you after several interceding prayers and waiting…

Our organization is called The True Vine Ministries ( The Primitive Hill Tribal Aboriginal People Evangelism and Soul Wining) Christian Charities Organization. We are located in a thick intensified tropical rain forest area of 5681.74 Sq K.M surrounded by 1499 villages, 33 Kinds of tribal sects, with more than a half a million Primitive Hill Tribal People living.

The Almighty Lord has privileged me to be form and leader of the Tribal Evangelists Network about a 100 nos, during the 14 years of my ‘Spiritual Apprenticeship ‘.

Our Mission: To serve and save the numerous perishing souls of the Primitive Hill Aboriginal Tribe people. Evangelism , salvation, pastoral care & church planting are our most primary concerns.

Our Vision: ”NONE should perish and ALL should repent.” (2 Peter 3:-9 & Acts 17.:30) Our desire is to reach the unsaved with the Gospel and God’s plan of salvation.

Please kindly consider us to be your partner in ALL possible ways!

WE ARE PRIVILEGED TO SHARE FURTHER DETAILS WITH YOU , UPON YOUR PRAYERFUL CONSENT ONCE WE ARE IN CONTACT WITH YOU.

We are looking forward to co-laboring with you under your most precious and dynamic leadership!

With Prayers and Abundant Blessings in your work, Gratefully Yours , Johnson B. Jakkala Please contact us by the following: The Primitive Hill Tribal Aboriginal People Evangelism & Soul Winning Founding President: Head Pastor (Rev.Dr.)Jakkala Johnson Bailee Opp.Forest Check post, Rampachodavaram(Post & Mandal), East Godavari District Forests , Andhra Pradesh, India (pin 533288), E-mail :Truevine899@gmail.com Land line: 91-8864-243274., Mobile: 91-94 904 800 67 Visit us at www.truevineministries-kingdombearers.org (kindly View the ‘ News letter’ at my Identical Photo in the Home for more detailed information) Or join us on LinkedIn: “+…Kingdom Builders…+” (Christian Charities NGO’s of any kind., Evangelists / Preachers/Pastors., Soul Winners., ers....Every & Any PASSION FOR HARVEST…….)http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Kingdom-Builders-Evangelists3866898?mostPopular=&gid=3866898.

God Calls Me Child

By Rosalie Jole

Some of my happiest memories involve books. I have always loved to read. When I was a little girl

the bookmobile came to our school every month. During the summer it would stop at various locations in the community. I would take out the maximum number of books allowed. As a teenager, I always had my nose in a book. My parents wondered if I would ever take it out long enough to find a husband.

My family didn’t go to church often. I believed in God, but He seemed like a stern taskmaster to me.

After I married I changed to a different denomination. We went to church, but God was still foreign to me.

Life was busy. I learned how to be a wife and mother from reading self-help books. When our daughter was five years old I started a ceramics business. I loved the art and the interaction with my students. There was always something new to learn.

My studio was downstairs in a building that had a paint store in the upper level. My customers had to walk through the paint store to get to my store. Each autumn I offered a series of classes.

I had three different classes and a total of sixty-two women.

One of the women in my Tuesday evening class came a time or two and then started missing.

I was sure she had dropped out. One day during the week she came in and asked if she could talk to me. I finished with my customer and asked her to come into the classroom. She sat across from me and said, “I feel like I made a mistake in signing up for ceramic classes because it’s taking time away from my kids.” I had all I could do not to roll my eyes at her. “I am sorry you feel that way, but I am not going to be able to give you your enrollment fee back.”

“Oh, no, I don’t want my money back. I was wondering, since you are here every day, if I could come in and have you help me. If you are busy with a customer I will wait.” “That could work.” I wasn’t sure I liked the idea, but she was a nice lady.

She came in several weeks in a row. One day she asked me what I like to do besides ceramics.

“Well, I love to read. I have been so busy I can’t even get to the book store or library.” She smiled and said, “I have a lot of books. Would you like me to share some of them with you?” The next time she came in she brought in two grocery bags full of paperbacks. I was a little busy, so I told her to put them on my desk. After she left I dug into those bags. After looking at five or six books I felt like crying. They were all Jesus books. “Well, they can just sit there and I’ll make believe I’ve read them.”

For the next two weeks I had hardly any customers. I teased the man in the paint store and asked him if he had locked the door that led down to my studio.

I cleaned my studio from top to bottom. Finally, with nothing left to do, I reached into that bag of books and began to read the back flaps. One of the books was by David Wilkerson. He told about the Teen Challenge drug rehabilitation program. I found the program interesting, but I was fascinated by the way David talked to and about Jesus. He talked as if he knew God. Out of boredom, I reached into the bag and chose another book by well-known business women Frances Hunter. I hugged it to my body. Maybe I could learn something new about business. Part of Frances’s story was about her printing business and what happened to her when she developed a cataract. One of her customers - a pastor – had visited her in the hospital and led her to Christ. She had the whole plan of salvation in her book. Up until this time I had never heard about a personal relationship with Jesus.

I knew right then and there that I wanted Jesus in my life. I knew that I had to recognize that I was a sinner who needed Him. I felt like Paul in the Bible. I had had blinders on my eyes, but now I could see.

Jesus had used Frances to remove them. I don’t even remember how I got on my knees, but I knelt down on the hard concrete floor in my studio and received Jesus. Then I knew the Father because Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through me” (John 14:6).

Soon after saying yes to Jesus, a lady in my garden club asked if I would like to be in her Bible study. I was so hungry for the Word that I quickly said I would love to. She was a great teacher, and I learned to love the Word.

We began attending a Bible church and I became active in the women’s ministry.

Many years have passed. God still uses books to teach and motivate me.

He has used the Bible, the greatest Book of them all, to guide me. I am still learning to lean on Him and to listen as He whispers in my ear, “I love you, My child.”