PEARL DROP
MOMENTS I S S U E 01
Promised fulfilled
RenĂŠ Gronum shares her testimony of losing a baby and a 3-year journey of tears and pain, getting to the moment where it came full circle.
Moments PEARL DROP
EDITOR God | Jesus | Holy Spirit
ASSISTANT EDITORS Monique van Rooyen René Gronum
LAYOUT ARTIST Holy Spirit
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS Monique van Rooyen, René Gronum, Kat Hlongwane, Celeste de Wet Monnique Swart, Konrad van Rensburg
We ask that you will pray for us with every word we type, every story and topic we put in this magazine. We can’t do this without God, we seek His guidance in everything we do.
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I N DE X
Top Stories 35
15 DEVOTIONALS God’s Brown Eyed Girl Rest Series
LIFESTYLE P AG E 13 P AG E 21-22
INTERVIEWS
Let’s Chat How To: See yourself
TOUGH TOPIC S PA GE 4 PA GE 25- 26
PDM: Where it all began
PA GE 2 3 - 2 4 PA GE 3 1 - 3 2
PA GE 43
Depression
Write for us
PA GE 44
You Asked
G.B.E.G - Rene Gronum
P AG E 11-12
God’s Brown Eyed Girl Testimony PA GE 9- 10
Truth and Spirit Book
P AG E 15-19
My Testimony - PDM
PA GE 27- 28
Chris & Monique
P AG E 29-30
Baby Stefan
PA GE 35- 37
Forever Young Band
P AG E 39-41
Follow u s ! Instagram - @pearldropmoments
P A GE 5 - 6
Hair and the Bible
Final Thoughts
REAL LIFE
Facebook - @PDMomentsMag
39
Cover Story
P A GE 3 3
P A GE 9
FROM THE EDITOR
Adventures NEW
Exciting
times
are
ahead
of
us!
to get closer to our Heavenly Father.
Welcome to our first issue, we hope that this magazine will bring you
In the magazine we talk about all of
closer to God and become a close
the difficult topics as well as cutting
friend that guides. (And yes that is a
through the man-made rules and
photo from my wedding day, I wanted
religion and, really getting down to
to use it to remind me why I started
what God intended us to be, His true
this magazine, to help shed light on
bride.
becoming the true bride of Christ) You can read the full story on where When we started this magazine we
Pearl
wanted to be set apart from other
page 5.
Drop
Moments
started
on
Christian magazines. Our hopes and dreams for our new division is to
We
create a magazine that will really feel
on
like a friend talking to a friend, going
info@pearldropmoments.co.za
with you on the most amazing journey you will ever experience, and that is
PA GE 3
would our
first
Monique
love
your
issue!
feedback
us
at
LET ’ S C H AT
You said... We asked on Social Media what are the qualities that set godly women apart? You
ISSUE 1
OUR TOP 5 ONLINE CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES
JAMES & LEA D - PHILIA MINISTRIES
said the following... “Submission, patience and kindness” - René Gronum
THE BIBLE PROJECT
“To be merciful, humble, modest and stand strong in everything she does, whether it be for her household or in her community.” - Shanelle Steyn
RISE ON FIRE
“She has to seek God first, speak faithfully and show true beauty.” - Monique Badenhorst
“I would say three qualities that set a godly woman
H E AT H E R L I N D S E Y
apart would be kindness, her strength and the power to control her mind, not letting the enemy influence her thoughts.” - Adele Ellis
What would you say is a definite set apart quality
ALLYSON ROWE
of a godly woman?
Word Study Worshippers Greek word (proskuneo); an adorer1 :- worshipper. Adorer - to regard with the utmost esteem, love, and respect; honor. / to pay divine honor to; worship: to adore God. 1.
But a time is coming and is already here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit [from the heart, the inner self] and in truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers. 24 God is spirit [the Source of life, yet invisible to mankind], and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” [ John 4:23-24 Amplified Bible ] 23
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TOUGH T OPI C
Where it all began
Once upon a time there was a little girl with very big dreams, so big it scared her. That little girl went through a lot of trials to find herself and our Heavenly Father. We all have a past and that past plays such an important role in our future. You learn to see, do and appreciate things differently. You start to shake things off that aren’t good for you or just not part of the more mature you.
certain clothes, I don’t want to bring anyone into temptation or make my husband feel like he should cover me up. I don’t want him or God to ever feel ashamed of me.
Only now that I am 26 years old I see the bigger picture behind my trials and pain that I went through. I know the pain wasn’t from God but, He used that to shape me into the person I am today and to equip me to help others going through the same kind of pain and trials.
I started wearing less and less makeup as well, not that I’m saying it is wrong to wear makeup it was just something that God convicted me of.
It took me 3 years to understand why I have this passion for magazines and getting other people’s stories out there. God gave me many visions about what He wants me to do, but it took me a while to put the pieces together and to see the full picture. Let me introduce you to my dream and God-given vision - Pearl Drop Moments. It is very difficult to put into words what the fullness of it is. The best way I can describe it is to say that I had to go through a cleansing and growing phase to understand what we as women are called to be. God showed me the faults in my personality and life that He didn’t approve of and how we as true women of God are supposed to live and walk. I can say to you with all honesty it wasn’t an easy journey and I am still learning and, I’m pretty sure I won’t stop learning anytime soon. One morning while I was on Facebook going through my feed, I started noticing something that made me sick to my stomach. It was like a veil was lifted from my eyes. Now, I’m not saying this to judge, it is not the women that made me sick it was the lack of purity and the amount of worldliness that were in these women (and me) professing that they are Christians. I sat there feeling so sad that we all became so part of this world that we can’t even see that just by the way we dress and present ourselves that we are not honouring God, nor the people around us or even ourselves for that matter. I feel so ashamed of myself for the way I acted, dressed and represented my Father before other people. I’ve come to a point where I feel naked when I’m wearing a strappy top. I started feeling convicted for so many things when it came to my appearance. I constantly think of how men will look at me if I wear PA GE 5
So, the thing is this, God put it on my heart to start this magazine (I am not qualified to this at all) to help His daughters get back to being pure and strive to live a holy life. We forget one very important thing, before you get married you are in training to become the wife/mother that your husband and children need. You can’t be who they need, if you don’t have a solid foundation. Women play an important role in society, in our homes, at work and in so many other ways. “An excellent woman [one who is spiritual, capable, intelligent, and virtuous], who is he who can find her? Her value is more precious than jewels and her worth is far above rubies or pearls”. - Proverbs 31:10-31 [AMP] Don’t think because you are a woman God doesn’t see you as valuable, He loves you so much and wants the best for you. Just trust Him and His process. It might not be easy at times but, it will be worth it. Think of this magazine as a close friend that you can talk to about any subject. We don’t want to sugar-coat anything, we want to talk about real issues and topics that people often try to avoid. We want the truth and nothing but the truth! Going on a journey together in becoming the true bride of Christ and getting closer to God. Building a real solid relationship with our Heavenly Father. We all go through a lot of bad stuff but, when we get to the other side of our past and struggles we get to see God’s full grace and glory move in our lives. We learn that sometimes what we went through can help other people get out of their past and closer to God. Please pray for us and this magazine. We can’t do this without God, we seek His guidance in everything we do. This magazine should reflect God and glorify Him to the fullest. - PDM
ISSUE 1
#PearlDrop
Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. [AMP]
Proverbs 3:3
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TOUGH T OPI C S
A PROMISE
FULFILLED René Gronum shares her testimony of losing a baby and a 3-year journey of tears and pain, getting to the moment where it came full circle.
My life 3 years ago turned out much different from
On my 8-weeks scan, I got the horrible news and I was
what I thought it would. I had a miscarriage to our
devastated. It felt like my whole world was falling to
baby girl at 20 weeks in January 2015. A few months
pieces. I felt rejected by God and hurt that this could
later I was pregnant again only to find out at my
happen to me AGAIN. For a long while, I battled with
8-week scan that I have a blighted ovum. Meaning you
the thought of WHY that had to happen to me.
are pregnant but there is no baby. Until I surrendered it ALL to God. I found my answer. I After my first miscarriage to our baby girl Chantene
was disobedient to God and never turned my eyes to
God spoke tremendously a lot to me, I got scripture
Him, instead, I made that decision all on my own. Had
constantly telling me that God has got this under
I done things differently I wouldn’t have gone through
control.
all the pain I caused myself. God wants us to turn to Him and not lean on our own understanding.
Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God” One morning during my quiet time in March 2017 my I had a severe case of endometriosis as a young girl
heart was yearning for a child again. Knowing the
and used to suffer from severe pain. I gave natural birth
lesson, I learned I spoke to God and He showed me
to our daughter and had a God encounter like never
a vision of my baby girl now as a two-year-old and
before, God’s presence of peace came over me during
I remembered the words “You do have a child in
labor. And in that very moment, I knew everything
Heaven”
would be okay if I just keep my eyes focused on God. At my 8 weeks check-up I found I no longer had
And it clicked I do have a child! Suddenly my desire
endometriosis. My gynae explained one out of every
was gone and I had this amazing sense of peace that
3 women that have it are cured after birth, and I was
came over my heart.
that one out of 3. God gave me a reward for my faith in Him. I now going on 3 years later do not suffer from
Being me, I went and told my husband what an amazing
any pain anymore.
experience I just had and said I am happy with just him for the rest of my life, no babies for us.
A few months later I wanted to take control again and was adamant that I wanted a baby. I wanted to
A month later a week before Angus Buchan’s IT’S TIME,
become a mother! Instead of talking to God about
I came across the story of Hannah. Not remembering
it, I had made up my mind and 3 weeks later I got a
everything I read as a child I read the whole story. I
positive pregnancy test.
thought to myself I can learn from the way Hannah prayed (never once thinking about a baby).
The excitement was overwhelming as I was holding that test, my husband was hesitant to get his hopes
The following week Saturday we arrived at ITS TIME.
up again. I believed that this time I was going to have
The build-up of the morning was so intensely filled
a healthy baby.
with the Holy Spirit. I knew God had a divine purpose
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ISSUE 1
IT’S TIME for each person being there. Then uncle Angus prayed
year and her words were “As they got to the temple of
and asked that the barren women and their husbands
Shiloh she felt the Lord telling her that she needs to
that desire a family to please stand up, and haven’t
tell the Hannah’s out there to be still and know that I
given it to God, I kept seated. My husband turned and
am God”
said, “Could you please stand up” and I looked at him and thought “did you not remember what I told you
3 Years of tears and pain came to this moment where
last month”. Needless to say, I was being submissive
it came full circle.
and stood up. As soon as uncle Angus started praying I heard “now you pray Hannah’s prayer”. Tears running,
9 Months later 5 January 2018 we got to hold one of
I prayed her prayer and knew that God was going to
the greatest gifts that God has to offer. The pure joy
fulfill His promise.
and light that I see in my daughter’s eyes remind me of the honour and privilege it is to raise a child after
A week later my mom and I had the privilege to go to
God’s own heart.
Hillsong’s Women’s Colour Conference in Cape Town. Just before the weekend ended I prayed and just
And today I know I would do it all over again, no
asked God for one more sign. And then Bobby Houston
changes! - René
played a video clip of them in Jerusalem earlier that PAGE 1 0
INTERVIEW
René Gronum
get to know
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I N T ERV I E W
ISSUE 1
Can you tell our readers about yourself and your blog?
focusing on the standards of the world we should turn
My name is René and I am married to my best friend
our eyes to God and set after the standards He set for
Kallie Gronum. I am a hairdresser by profession. My
us.
clients and friends that know me know I love to chat and then I found a way to put the talking on paper. I found a
Since becoming a mom, would you say your faith grew
talent I never knew I had.
more and how do you stay God-focused with a newborn baby?
Describe how you first got into blogging?
I definitely would say that I do see things differently and
My blog started during 2016 when I found my true calling,
that I see God’s hand in every area of our lives. My faith
helping others. I wanted to teach people the things
has grown so much by waiting and trusting God’s timing
that God revealed to me and my personal experiences
for a baby. I stay focused by praying the blood of Jesus
and how I got the courage to get through them.
over my family every day.
Is it difficult or challenging to be a Christian blogger?
Will being a mother change the way you write on your
To be honest, sometimes. We are called to a different
blog?
way of living, one that the world doesn’t always
Motherhood has been such a joy and I do think that
understand. And I have to try and live that way, but I
when I write and speak to God that joy reflects.
know that I am human and can only improve myself. Not by my strength but God’s.
Is there any exciting stuff happening in the future of God’s Brown Eyed Girl?
What challenges do you think Christian women today
Well there is the promise that 2018 is my harvest
are facing?
season, and being able to write for this magazine is
As women we are constantly measured by what is
definitely the start of the reaping.
seen on tv and other social media platforms. Instead of
7 Questions with René Gronum
What is your favourite Christian book at the moment? 100 Days in the SECRET PLACE by Gene Edwards What is your favourite Christian movie at the moment? The Shack (It resonated with losing a baby) What is your favourite Christian song at the moment? Elevation Worship- Yahweh (takes me into God’s presence every time) If you could travel back to the past, which book of the Bible would you like to experience and why? Matthew. I would have loved to be in the disciples’ shoes and to learn from Jesus. Who in the Bible inspires you the most? Hannah as I had to become a “Hannah” myself What is your favourite verse? Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God” If there is one thing you could tell the younger you what would it be? To seek God’s Kingdom first!
General contact info: Email address is reneqgronum@gmail.com On Facebook Rene Gronum/ God’s Brown Eyed Girl PAGE 1 2
DE VOT I ONA L - G OD ’ S BROW N E Y ED GI R L
God the Gardener
René Gronum from God’s Brown Eyed Girl, shares her journey that God has put her on and would love to help each and everyone that reads her posts, to be filled with the love of God. If we look at a tree, what do we see? We only see what’s above the ground. We see the tree stump with its branches that are spread out full of leaves. What we don’t see is the roots that are beneath the ground. If the roots aren’t deep the tree can’t withstand a storm.
innermost being, trying to get rid of all the things that are holding us back and bringing it to light. Then He nurtures our hearts reminding us that He is a gracious God and that His grace is sufficient for us. When we expect His grace and love, our journey start. Sowing and growing become a way of life.
And that is exactly what our lives represent, the tree. Romans 11:16 “For if the roots of the tree are Holy, the branches will be too.” When our roots are planted deep in Christ we are able to do anything, we are able to rise up against the storm with authority. For we know who is behind us. That is where God comes in, He empowers and equip us by cleaning out the weeds in our lives and sowing good seeds. John 15:1 “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener” What does a gardener do? -He preps the ground - He takes out the weeds - Fertilize the ground - Sow seeds - Water the ground - WAIT This is exactly what God does to us. He digs deep into our PA GE 1 3
Luke 6:43-45 “A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. A tree is identified by its fruit. Figs are never gathered from thornbushes, and grapes are not picked from bramble bushes. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from the heart” Our bodies are vessels for God to work with. If it is fertile, God can work deep within us and we can become “fruitbearing trees” for Him. We become Christ-like. Are you allowing God to work in your garden? If not the promise stands that all things He does are for the good of those who love Him. He will have to dig, but when the seeds are planted and the flower grows, it will all be worth it. Lord we just want to come before You and ask You to get rid of all the “weeds” in our lives. We ask You to point us in the right direction and to give us a spirit of discernment. May we walk this road with You and become the fruit-bearing trees that You created us to be. - René
Share your testimony Email us at submissions@pearldropmoments.co.za and your testimony could be featured in our magazine! PLEASE NOTE: The email subject should be TESTIMONY
INTERVIEW
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I N T ERV I E W
ISSUE 1
WA LK I NG I N SPI R I T & T RU T H We had the privilege of doing an interview with PD van der Westhuizen from Rise on Fire and, the author of Reigniting Spirit & Truth. Congratulations on your first book! Before we get down to business,
“How did you do that? The pain is gone!” I couldn’t believe it.
you started with Rise on Fire after a dream you had? Would you
He asks me to wait and brings his friend, who has limp and pain in
mind telling our readers more about where it all began?
his foot. I prayed again and God showed up to heal his friend’s foot. They both get super excited and, being locals, started bringing their
A few years ago, as a student at university I loved the scriptures,
sick friends. By the end of the night I ended up praying for around
attending multiple bible studies and growing in knowledge. But
25 sick people, and every single one of them got healed!
there was a big apparent lack in my heart: No love. I realized that I struggled to love like Jesus did, even though I had all the head
As I was crying myself home from that night, I heard the Father say:
knowledge of how He did. I knew that this was only possible by the
“PD, this is not about you, this is the walk of my Bride”.
Holy Spirit, so one night I fell on my knees and desperately asked for an outpouring of His Spirit on my life.
What was the most difficult thing that came with the territory after starting Rise on Fire?
About 2 years later I had a dream: Standing in a marketplace in the streets of Israel, there was a little boy with me. In the dream
Many people are too comfortable in their Christian walk to consider
I was teaching this young little boy how to pray for people. More
walking as radically as the first-century disciples, both in Spirit and
specifically, there was a young girl in front of him, and I was teaching
Truth. This discomfort usually manifests in the form of persecution
him how to pray for her hurting shoulder.
and rejection. I have personally received more persecution from fellow believers than any other group. But persecution is a promise
She gets healed! Runs to her Jewish mother and brings her. I tell
and blessing, we must receive persecution if we are disciples of
her: “This was Yeshua (Jesus)”, and I wake up.
Christ, because that was what Jesus and His disciples experienced, especially from the religious groups.
Confused and uncertain of this dream, since I had never even prayed for anyone at that point in my life, I prayed and fasted and a
You’ve seen a lot since you’ve started walking this path, what is
week later the Father changed my life.
the one thing according to you, that seems to be turning a lot of people away from the Gospel?
While sitting at home, a thought came to me: “Go to Hatfield Square, there’s someone you need to meet”. This thought came out
Lukewarm Christianity is one of the number one causes of the
of nowhere, and I thought at first that I was going crazy, because
eruption of atheism and new age around the world. Because
this thought doesn’t want to leave me. I ended up shrugging my
mainstream Christianity has in many cases lost the radical, powerful,
shoulders and getting in my car to drive up to Hatfield Square (a
uncompromising walk of the first-century church, the world is
place in town close to my home). As I got out of my car, a man
looking to fill the hole in their hearts elsewhere. We were designed
walked right up to me. He started telling me about his hardships,
to walk in communion with the Holy Spirit and in the holiness of His
but all I could see was his shoulder. “Something is wrong with his
Truth, but if we don’t we as humans will seek this elsewhere.
shoulder”, I thought. But how should I know this? I take a step of boldness and ask: “Do you have any pain in your shoulder?”. “Yes…
What made you write the book Spirit and Truth?
How do you know?” he says. “Jesus is going to heal that right now!” There is a big gap right now in Christianity, with two “revivals” (if As the words leave my mouth, I couldn’t believe what I was doing!
you will) around the world. One of the Spirit: Where His people are
But it was too late. I laid my hands on his shoulder and commanded
returning to the great commission, where it is no longer left only
the pain to leave in the name of Jesus. “Test it out”, I asked, because
for the pastor or leader. People are realizing that healing the sick,
I didn’t want to just leave – faith is an action.
casting out demons, baptizing, etc. are instructions from Jesus to us, not optional, and for all who call themselves disciples of Christ.
He moves around his shoulder, gently at first, and his eyes enlarge. PA GE 16
I N T ERV I E W
Photos taken by Dewaldt Walters at the launch of PD’s book. Book illustrations done by Lenè Magro Walters. On the other hand, another revival, that of Truth is also sweeping
What was the writing process like spiritually?
across the world. In this revelation, His people are returning to holiness, the keeping of His instructions, and walking as Jesus
The biggest hurdle was sitting down and writing, but after I started
walked in accordance with that. That Jesus did not come to abolish
writing, the words just flowed from my mouth. The book was written
the Torah, but to fill it up with meaning, which is what the word
in quite a short space of time and with just about no writer’s block
“fulfill” (pleroo in Greek), means. See Matthew 5:17-19.
at all. The Father really carried me through it, and I often glanced at what I read and thought “did I write that?”. Even today some of the
The book talks about both these topics in detail in a practical
things written are certainly above me, and therefore I can only give
manner, as well as God’s plans in bringing these two groups (that
Him all the glory.
are currently living in disunity) together. I believe He is coming back for a bride equally yoked to her Messiah, that will worship in Spirit &
Did anyone play a big role in the writing of the book?
Truth, not just on one side, lacking the other. Yes, my fiancée Christina played the biggest role in reviewing and With all the negative things that have been going on lately all over
helping me communicate certain parts better, as well as adding a
the world, and the tension in South Africa, do you think that your
few extra revelations. Quite amazing since my mom had a vision
book might help change all of this in a way? Leading people to the
years ago of a woman that was reading a book I wrote.
true Gospel and walking with God? Katlego Hlongwane, Rean Combrinck, and my mother Rinette van The gospel properly administered will most certainly always bring
der Westhuizen also reviewed the book. The editor of the book is
freedom in any and every situation. But I don’t believe the book is
Rebecca Wilber.
what will accomplish any of this, however, I believe the application of the knowledge in the book will. I hope for those who read it to
On your website you talk about the True New Covenant and the
not just read it and leave it at that, because knowledge without
fulfillment of it, what do you think that is going to look like?
application is useless in the Kingdom. In this season, God calls us to shema, which means to listen and obey. If we start with this
When the Bride of Christ walks in obedience to the law (Truth) written
obedience, to walk as Yeshua and the first-century church, we can
on her heart (Jer 31:31), as well as in the Spirit (Matthew 10:8). In its
truly change the world just as they did.
simple form, when we walk as Yeshua radically, uncompromisingly,
PA GE 1 7
ISSUE 1 and without any excuses along the way.
been God’s people, not by bloodline, but by the ingrafting into Yeshua through our obedience and call on His name, through faith.
Is there any significance/meaning to the illustrations you used in
Israel is one people. Interestingly though, even before our 33 000
the book?
denominations, the enemy has from the beginning tried to divide Israel, as we see with the fall of King Solomon, causing the first
The most prevalent illustration is that of the pendulum. It illustrates
big split of Israel into different kingdoms, who even today stand
the pendulum we have today that swings along the 33 000
divided. I have a video on YouTube called “Scattered & Regathered”
denominations. On the one extreme, we end up in lawlessness, and
that speaks more on this.
on the other, legalism. God is calling us to a balance of Spirit and Truth where it is not one or the other, but a perfect balance and
There is one thing I’ve always wondered about and that is how will
unity of the Spirit in communion with the Truth.
we be divided into nations/tribes?
Ever seen someone with the knowledge of the Truth, but the
Good question. As I mentioned, we have the 12 tribes. Now when
inability to walk it out due to the lack of Holy Spirit in their lives? Or
Israel left Egypt we had the native people from the 12 tribes leave,
someone who is eager for manifestations of the Spirit, but does not
but not only that – we also had a “mixed multitude” (Exodus 12:38)
have the knowledge of Truth? Both are dangerous places to be, but
come out of Egypt with them. This was the Egyptians who saw the
He is restoring us back to the fullness of His walk, even as we speak.
plagues and decided to follow the God of Israel. God said that these people should be treated as the native-born (Leviticus 19:34), and
In your book you talk about all of the different denominations, do
therefore part of the 12 tribes of Israel.
you think that God sees us all in different “categories” or as just one people?
When each tribe was given a portion of the land, these foreigners were able to choose to reside in any land, and the one they chose
I don’t think there’s going to be a gate for Baptists, or a gate for
would become the tribe they belong to. I imagine the same would be
Catholics in the Kingdom. Revelation 21 speaks of the 12 gates
the case of the day we stand before those 12 gates in the kingdom:
containing the names of the 12 tribes of Israel. Israel has always
the gate we choose, would become the tribe we belong to.
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I N T ERV I E W You mentioned in your book about Christians that walk in the
with God changed radically. What was it like for you, when you
Spirit but they don’t obey the law, does that mean you won’t enter
received this revelation the first time?
heaven then? The same. Because for the first time we start understanding who Well, I can’t really answer that. Of course, when it comes to the
we are and why He really had to die. If we don’t understand the
question of salvation then it would be up to the Judge. It also depends
bigger picture of the Bible, of how God previously divorced Israel
on what we define as “obeying the law”. For example, if I choose to
amongst other things, we will never understand why He really had
abstain from gossip, I have kept the law. If I choose to never murder,
to die (it was for much more than our sins).
I have kept the law. If I choose to keep the 4th commandment of the sabbath, I have kept the law. Now if I consciously rebel against the
What is the main thing you want readers to take away from your
ways that Jesus died for us to live in, then I’m treading on dangerous
book?
ground. It’s simple, to audit themselves, look at the life of Yeshua, and make If I say I am a Christian, yet murders, am I truly a Christian? The
the necessary changes in heart and action to walk more like Him
bigger problem has really been that we end up picking and
despite the culture or even religious traditions that don’t line up
choosing the instructions we want to follow, and the ones that are
with Him. It’s very simple, but it’s not easy.
too weird (because we are living in such a far removed and lawless culture), we leave out. Some of it is also because we are still learning
My book is available globally in either paperback, eBook or as a free
too, which is fine. God desires our hearts attention, and from that
PDF from: http://www.SpiritTruthBook.com
place, even if we fall – consciously or not, He will pick us up with His grace. As long as that grace does not become our license to live a
If you want to get in touch with me you can go have a look on YouTube
life of lawlessness. I certainly have much to learn about how to be
at: http://www.YouTube.com/RiseOnFire or visit our website: http://
obedient and to live as my Messiah, and I truly do still fall.
www.riseonfire.com/ or email me: pd@riseonfire.com
The bigger question is whether my heart and choices are in
Thank you so much, all glory to God!
rebellion against His covenant instructions written on my heart, or in communion with them. You talked about a vision that you had where you walked with Jesus in a golden field, did everything falls into place the same as you mentioned about the golden people that will be sent to accommodate and not hinder? Yes truly. If we make the decision to walk in the fields of harvest Yeshua talked about, He will send the right people on our path. I just came back from preaching in the United States, and saw incredible things, and that is a testimony to accommodations and doors God opens for us if we only say: “Here I am, send me”. All glory to Him. I think the part that scared me the most was where you talked about sin and, how if we continue to sin after coming to the knowledge of the truth, what Jesus did for us would ultimately be void. Do you think Christians who fall under this category sins deliberately just not to obey or is it a form of the enemy keeping them “blind”?
PD Van Der Westhuizen March 22
It can really be both. The enemy lies to us about who God is, about His words, instructions, character etc. and by choosing to believe the lie, we can easily fall into that category. But in the end, we have the choice, just like Adam & Eve had the gift of free will. Those whose hearts are truly after Him and walking in righteousness, will most certainly find Him and the righteousness in Yeshua He offers. I never understood the real reason for the cross, after I watched
Shared about Spirit & Truth at CBN yesterday. Went really amazing! Excited for what God is doing in the hearts of His people. No matter where I go, it is evident that He is moving is all in the same direction and uniting hearts to “walk as He walked”. We are seeking His face, desperate for His outpouring, and desire to love.
your video on scattered and regathered my life and relationship
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ISSUE 1
ADVERTORIAL
BOOK OUT NOW to order or get a free copy go to www.SpiritTruthBook.com
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DEVOTIONALS
Rest
Mini-Series by Pearl Drop Moments PA G E 2 1
DE VO T I ONA L S - PEA R L DROP M OM E N T S - B ELOV ED OF G OD BLO G
ISSUE 1
Step Back If I look back at 2017 I would have to say that it was a very special and terrifying year for me. It was the year where my faith was tested to a whole new level and what made this year special was the fact that I grew so much closer to God. That year was so stressful and busy that I came to a point where my body just didn’t want to anymore. I was constantly sick, tired and even at times depressed. Recently God started showing me, or more like teaching me what it is to rest in Him. I am really excited about this mini-series and I pray that it will bless you. In any situation whether it is good or bad we need to learn how to trust God, because if we don’t trust God it means you don’t have a lot of faith and, you aren’t ready to step back and rest. Life happens and we all go through bad stuff every now and again, we start to freak out and look for ways to calm ourselves down. We look for peace in people, things or places, instead of turning to the one true peace. God. Something that I’ve learned very quickly this year was that I can’t do anything even if I try hard, to change my situation.
Only God can do that, He can just by saying one-word change my entire life! I lay down and slept [safely]; I awakened, for the Lord sustains me. - Psalm 3:5 [AMP]
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Wow, when we realize who our God is, we realize how small this world and the enemy is. The enemy comes to steal your sleep, time, focus and health. We need to see the enemy for who he is and not the circumstances or the person in that situation. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places. - Ephesians 6:12 [AMP]
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Are you in a season where the enemy is attacking? Remember that God can do ANYTHING, He just has to say one word and it is over.
#PearlDrop
He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. - Psalm 23:2-3
Follow our Rest Series over on our blog (www.blog.pearldropmoments.co.za) PAGE 2 2
TOUGH T OPI C S
Mane attraction Ever thought why woman prefer long hair and why there’s such a controversy regarding your beautiful locks? Well, we took one for the team, after hours of searching we finally found out the significance of our hair and the Bible. I am a firm believer that hair can either make or break a person’s appearance and, I think there might be a reason for that. One morning I was having quiet time and came across a verse talking about the covering of women’s heads during prayer. At first, I was confused as I didn’t even know that was a thing. I always knew that some religions did that but weren’t really sure why. I started looking into it more and I wasn’t disappointed! God revealed so much to me, let me begin by saying that the following is what God revealed to me as a person and, not necessarily the way it is. Every person has their own convictions and revelations regarding a topic and I pray that God will talk to you individually regarding this topic. When I first started searching for Bible verses regarding hair I noticed one big thing, God talks a lot about hair! Either to emphasize something or to make an example of someone. God also uses hair to show importance or separation. The list is so long we will sit here the whole day talking about all of the reasons behind hair but, one mane thing (see what I just did there) that can be said about hair in the Bible is the fact that, it is so important that God mentions a few times that He even knows the number of hair on your head. Have you ever read a verse and thought “yeah I’ve got this, I know exactly what they are talking about” just to find out later “oh wait I
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missed that one completely!” I started reading the Bible in a different way, I start by opening my Bible and where ever my eyes fall first I read. Often, I’m confused with the verse, so I then go on to read the entire chapter. We forget that the Bible was written in a very different time compared to today, what doesn’t make sense to us now made sense back then. We should take into consideration the cultural background and the history that shaped the people of the Bible. I’m not saying that what’s written in the Bible isn’t applicable to us anymore because it is! That is the beauty of the Bible, even if it was written hundreds of thousands of years ago it is still so relevant today. Getting back to our subject, the following Bible verse is what got me into this discussion in the first place: 1 Corinthians 11:15 - “but if a woman has long hair, it is her ornament and glory? For her long hair is given to her as a covering.” Now to me at that time the first thought that came up to me was that I’m not praying right, I need to cover my head when I pray and worship God. Then I prayed about it and read the rest of the verse, the same part kept standing out to me: “For her long hair is given to her as a covering.” If you think about it long hair sort of looks like a veil so again, to me this was the answer I received, God gave women long hair to be a covering and to represent her glory and honour. If you feel convicted in your heart to cover your head while praying, then do so. I recently
ISSUE 1 heard about a lady that felt like she should cover her hair, now she wears a covering over her hair every day. I went through a similar conviction of not wearing makeup every day. God talks to each of us in a different way, how beautiful is that? God values you as an individual that He would take the time to talk to your heart personally and in your own special way. 1 Peter 3:1-6: “In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands [subordinate, not as inferior, but out of respect for the responsibilities entrusted to husbands and their accountability to God, and so partnering with them] so that even if some do not obey the word [of God], they may be won over [to Christ] without discussion by the godly lives of their wives, 2 when they see your modest and respectful behaviour [together with your devotion and appreciation—love your husband, encourage him, and enjoy him as a blessing from God]. 3Your adornment must not be merely external—with interweaving and elaborate knotting of the hair, and wearing gold jewellery, or [being superficially preoccupied with] dressing in expensive clothes; 4but let it be [the inner beauty of] the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, [one that is calm and self-controlled, not overanxious, but serene and spiritually mature] which is very precious in the sight of God. 5For in this way in former times the holy women, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands and adapting themselves to them;... [AMP] All this verse is saying, that instead of making an idol of your appearance and putting on a show for people to admire you let your inner qualities speak for themselves. You should still take care of yourself and your beautiful locks but not in such a way that you become a spectacle. Going back to our hair being our glory this was a revelation for me, prepare to be blown away! John 12:3: “Then Mary took a pound of very expensive perfume of pure nard, and she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” [AMP] Mary took her “glory” (her hair) and washed the feet of Jesus (He is glorious) she basically showed Jesus that even though her hair is her glory and honour it still isn’t as glorious as He is. She lowered herself in every possible way to Jesus. To sum it all up I think that women are supposed to have long hair as it’s a symbol of authority, honour and glory. The length of the hair I don’t think matters that much but, I came across a few studies saying that a woman’s hair should be long enough to cover her neck. So, in short, it shouldn’t be shorter than your shoulders. Just for an added bonus, Judges 13:5: “5For behold, you shall conceive and give birth to a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the boy shall be a Nazirite [dedicated] to God from birth; and he shall begin to rescue Israel from the hands of the Philistines.” [AMP] We all know the story of Samson with his long hair and, that from his mother’s womb he was a Nazirite. As you know when a Nazirite’s vows are finished they cut their hair. When Samson’s hair was cut he went through terrible things but in the end, he did kill all the Philistines, his vow was then completed. Without him knowing the will of God was still accomplished. Let us know why you think people have the idea that Jesus has long hair. Email us at submissions@pearldropmoments.co.za - PDM
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LI F ES T Y LE
HOW TO
see yourself
the way
God does God sends all kinds of people on our path and we get to meet a lot of different individuals with their own individual struggles but, the one thing we all have in common is the fact that we are all created by the same God.
The one thing that keeps coming up in conversations lately is the fact that no one knows who we are. Yes, you know where you were born, what’s your favourite colour and so on but, when it comes down to the hard-hitting facts who we are called to be and how God sees us we all have the same blank look on our faces. I hope you have a nice cup of coffee ready (or tea), because today we are going to go on a journey with the Bible. We are going to look at how God sees us according to His Word not other people. First up is a verse that not only tells us that we are chosen but it gives us a very clear picture of our responsibilities as well. Without further ado I give you 1 Thessalonians 1:1-7: “To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being from God]. 2 We give thanks to God always for all of you, continually mentioning you in our prayers; 3 recalling unceasingly before our God and Father your work energized by faith, and your service motivated by love and unwavering hope in [the return of] our Lord Jesus Christ. 4Brothers and sisters beloved by God, we know that He has chosen you; 5 for our good news [regarding salvation] came to you not only in word, but also in [its inherent] power and in the Holy Spirit and with great conviction [on our part]. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your benefit. 6 You became imitators of us and [through us] of the Lord, after you welcomed our message in [a time of] great trouble with the joy supplied by the Holy Spirit; 7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.“ [AMP] Phew! What a mouthful! Let’s go over the key pieces of information that we highlighted: “Your work energized by faith, and your service motivated by love and unwavering hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Here PA GE 2 5
we see that when we take Christ as our redeemer we also take on a labour of love kind of job, we are responsible for spreading the Gospel. Our “work” [labour of love] is doing what we are obeyed to do by the Holy Spirit, whether it is helping the poor, praying for someone to get healed or to just go and give that old lady a hug, it’s still doing the work and serving God’s people. Being an imitator of Christ is to do what He did when He was still among us and to love others as He loved us. So, we are loved and in return, we love. Our very being is based on love and God LOVES us so much, when you feel loved you feel accepted and good about yourself. The enemy comes to tell you that God doesn’t approve of you, you aren’t loved because you keep stumbling and making mistakes, that is a lie! God knows us way better than we know ourselves, He knows we are only human, we can’t be as perfect as Jesus, that’s why God sent Jesus to be reconciled with us. God isn’t going to give up on us, if He wanted to He would have given up a long time ago with lots and lots of water! Next up we have 2 Timothy 1:9: “for He delivered us and saved us and called us with a holy calling [a calling that leads to a consecrated life—a life set apart—a life of purpose], not because of our works [or because of any personal merit—we could do nothing to earn this], but because of His own purpose and grace [His amazing, undeserved favor] which was granted to us in Christ Jesus before the world began [eternal ages ago]” [AMP] We have a purpose; a calling and that purpose are to be set apart from this world and its ways. In other words, this world has no say about you and you have nothing to do with this world. We should just focus on God and do what pleases Him. We are highly favoured by God.
ISSUE 1 Imagine you get called for the army but, it gets even better, they want you to be a sergeant and you have no qualifications that justify that position. So, now you start asking questions like why me? Because, your father was one too. Just because you are favoured you got the spot. So not through your works but because of who your father is. Wow, how awesome is that?! Because of who God is and because of His own purpose and grace we have a holy calling and we are favoured. Our next verse is a harsh one but, I feel one that is needed: Deuteronomy 28:13-14: “13The Lord will make you the head (leader) and not the tail (follower); and you will be above only, and you will not be beneath, if you listen and pay attention to the commandments of the Lord your God, which I am commanding you today, to observe them carefully. 14 Do not turn aside from any of the words which I am commanding you today, to the right or to the left, to follow and serve other gods. [AMP] If there is one thing that I’ve learned in the past year is that we place a lot of things above God, making those things or people our idols. God gave us commandments for a reason and it is to keep us safe, healthy and prosperous. It wasn’t created to keep us in a box or take away from us. God loves us and wants the best for us, that’s why He created the ten commandments. If we obey God in everything we do and place nothing before or above God He will make us the head and not the tail. We are victorious, IF we obey.
in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Saviour], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life].” [AMP] Out with the old and in with the new! Yes, you are reborn into a new person filled with the Holy Spirit because you have made Christ your Saviour. Therefore, the old you can no longer exist. Your past can’t touch you anymore, you have left it behind you and Christ is in front of you. When the devil comes and ties to drag you back to your past you look away from it to your bright new future in Christ. Our last verse is Colossians 2:10: “And in Him you have been made complete [achieving spiritual stature through Christ], and He is the head over all rule and authority [of every angelic and earthly power].” [AMP] We are complete, lacking nothing because of Jesus Christ our beautiful Saviour! You don’t have to fear anything or anyone because Jesus is in you and for you. Imagine just for one second that you are standing in front of Jesus right now, do you think that you will be thinking of all your problems and pain at that moment? I know I won’t, you will just probably fall on your face and worship Him. That is how absolutely perfect Jesus is and, that perfect completeness is in you.
Whatever you face today, just know that because of Jesus you are victorious. You are never alone in any situation; the Holy Spirit will always guide you and keep you strong. I just love the fact that we can defeat the enemy with our testimony, hit him right where it hurts! Jesus died so that we can live and not only live but be victorious over our enemy!
I hope that you see now that it doesn’t matter what people say about you, it only matters what God says about you. You are beautiful, chosen, loved, favoured, victorious, the head and not the tail and absolutely completed through Christ! Can I get an AMEN?! Yes, the enemy will come and try to take that away from you but, you won’t let him because “greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” 1 John 4:4. I absolutely love the saying, “If the devil reminds you of your past just remind him of his future!” “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.” Ephesians 6:12.
Not only are we favoured, chosen, the head and victorious we are a new creation. In 2 Corinthians 5:17 the word of God says that we are a new creature reborn by the Holy Spirit. “Therefore if anyone is
Remember that, it is not the person attacking you. God is your Heavenly Father and that is really all that is important not the words of others. - PDM
Speaking of being victorious, let’s go to Revelation 12:11: “And they overcame and conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, for they did not love their life and renounce their faith even when faced with death.” [AMP]
God says... I am being changed into His image 2 Cor 3:18 I am strong in the Lord Eph 6:10 I am more than a conqueror Rom 8:37 I am the temple of the Holy Spirit 1 Cor 6:19 I am set free John 8:32 I am blessed Gal 3:9
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R EA L LI F E
My Testimony I am filled with so many emotions as I sit here typing this. Pearl Drop Moments is more than just a magazine to me, it’s my testimony. I’ve learned so much in the past year about myself and my past. The one thing that really stands out to me is the fact that at a very young age I was exposed to some really bad stuff and it was the devil’s way of trying to take my calling away from me. It eventually led me to something that caused me to make the decision to end my life, which is what the devil wants. Since I can remember people have been telling me that I will do great things for God’s Kingdom and that I have the natural instinct of being a leader or rather taking the lead when needed. I never understood why people said that, to me that didn’t even make sense as I used to be very shy. As I grew older I started seeing some of that come to life in me, I had the ability to influence people in a positive and unfortunately a negative way. With that came a lot of pain as well, people didn’t always understand me or the things happening in my life. People love talking to me, sharing their feelings and secrets but, this sometimes caused a division.
to turn away from God and towards evil. I started listening to heavy metal music, wearing only black and just couldn’t get out of that depression state. I was literally dying inside. When I turned 18 it just got worse, I met the wrong guy, and everything just went downhill from there. Long story short the depression got worse, I was in situations I wasn’t supposed to be in and eventually I tried to commit suicide three times. Luckily for me God wasn’t finished. I remember coming home from work late and just pouring my heart out before the Lord. I couldn’t handle it anymore, I was done with depression and losing people close to me. Shortly after that night the impossible happened in my life. A guy from work named Chris, was just at the right place at the right time and, my light in the uncontrollable darkness I was in. We met a year earlier, and we just clicked, I remember the first time I saw him, I couldn’t stop staring into his beautiful blue eyes! Forwarding to a few days after I asked God to take over, Chris and I started talking a lot more and I just knew that this was the guy God intended for me and that he will be my husband.
I will never forget the day I gave my heart to Jesus, I cried my eyes out! A year later I got baptized with my best friends and, that’s where it all began. I started seeing things that were going to happen or seeing dead people and feeling other people’s emotions. Now of course this wasn’t from God, it was the devil using my “gift” in a negative way. Making me scared, depressed and filled with anxiety.
I finally got the courage to get out of my abusive relationship and let me tell you, that was not pretty! After a few months I was completely free from my past and God renewed me as a person and restored all my broken relationships with my family. Nothing is impossible for God, NOTHING.
At one stage I didn’t even want to get into a car, fearing for my life. All of this was part of the devil’s strategy to get me
After just 5 months of dating, Chris asked me to marry him, we got married 9 months later. Everything happened
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ISSUE 1 so quickly but, and today I know why. God had a plan, He was about to move like never before in my life.
streets. The people then became on fire, after I saw that the following words came up to me:
February the following year I met Jesus for the first time in person. We went to a new church and during the service the pastor called me to the front. He took my hand and started talking to me about my past and my future, next moment I saw Jesus. Suddenly it wasn’t the pastor talking to me anymore, but our beautiful Saviour JESUS.
“The time has come for My people to go out and to do what they are called for! I’m sending out My Spirit to start a fire that can never be blissed! The holy Spirit will move like never before, people will be changed and become the light of this dark world. Go My children and be the light, be MY light and touch other people so that their hearts can catch fire!
I went through a lot of growing pains since that day, I started having dreams that where amazing and terrifying at the same time, receiving visions and getting to know my God. In 2015 I registered Pearl Drop Moments. The beginning of something truly wonderful. At the time I didn’t understand what I was supposed to do with it, because everything I tried doing just didn’t seem to work. Since I can remember I’ve had visions of the perfect bride, beautiful gown, hair and makeup. I’ve always had this fascination with weddings and I never really understood why. I recently discovered something amazing about myself through the Word of God and showing me. I realized why I’ve always been drawn to weddings and the perfect attire for it, because God had a plan. He wanted me to do something that would change the way people look at the bride. When I started Pearl Drop Moments I thought it was to start a wedding company, in a way it was but not in the way I thought it would be. You see God wants His first love to come back, He wants His bride to be clean and ready for her Bridegroom. On 22 August 2017 I had a vision where it was really dark around me and when I looked up I saw doves on fire, and as they came down they touched the people walking in the
I believe that this year (2018) will be the year of great miracles, testimonies and a revival of note! Pearl Drop Moments represent something that is beyond this world, our lives are just a moment. We are all precious pearls in the Father’s hands, and He drops us into life where we have a choice to either follow and obey Him or choose the world. It is time that we act like the precious pearls we are. To shine where God has placed us and to represent the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords - Jesus Christ. Are you ready to step into your destiny as a daughter of, the Great I Am? Are you ready to pick up your crown AND your cross? To me our wedding symbolizes more than just the joining of two people, every time I look at the photos I just realize all over again how fortunate I am to still be alive today. Just over a year before that day I tried to end my life. Today I can tell you that I know what it is to be truly loved and that there is a Mighty Living God that cares about us. That day I didn’t just give my heart to Chris forever but, to Jesus as well. Our wedding is the perfect testimony that God restores, heals and moves in ways we can’t even begin to understand. - Monique
All Photos of our wedding in the magazine was taken by Zetta Kotze from Playground Studios PAGE 2 8
I N T ERV I E W
7 Questions with Monique & Chris van Rooyen
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Monique... What is your favourite Christian book at the moment? This is difficult, there are a few actually, I like the book Jubilee - Sounding of the awakening blast of the horn by Sarah Jubilee as well as Bridge to Haven by Francine Rivers. I can relate so much to the main character Abra. What is your favourite Christian movie at the moment? Hands down my favourite movie of all time is One Night With The King. What is your favourite Christian song at the moment? Priestly Blessing Song from Lize Hadassah Wiid. If you could travel back to the past, which book of the Bible would you like to experience and why? Genesis, to see God and how the relationship between man and God was before sin came in. What it must have felt like with no evil in their presence. Who in the Bible inspires you the most? This is so difficult to answer! I would say Mary inspires me the most, I don’t think anyone can imagine the pain and the
roller-coaster ride of emotions she went through during Jesus’ life on earth. I would also have to say that Ruth inspires me a lot as well. She took on so much, she left her home to be with her mother-in-law and then went out to work on a stranger’s farm (that she didn’t know personally) and did everything her mother-in-law instructed her to do without hesitation. I think we can all learn a lot from her and Mary on obeying God and just trusting Him regardless of what the future might look like. What is your favourite verse? The right word at the right time is like a custom-made piece of jewellery. - Proverbs 25:11 [MSG] If there is one thing you could tell the younger you what would it be? You are worth so much more! There is no person on this earth that can determine your worth, find your worth in Jesus. You are a precious pearl.
Chris... Chris is from God’s force and will be sharing his devotionals with our magazine in the next issue.
people out of Egypt. God qualifies the called, and at the end of the day we can see, God is a keeper of His word.
If you could choose one book in the Bible to read for the rest of your life, which one will it be? I would have to be Exodus. The story of Moses shows us how God’s not only just knows what will happen in the future but, also how He provides. He places the right people in the right situations to do great works. Exodus also has a coin side, the darkness and where it leads. We all know what happened the Pharaoh king and his men. We don’t write history, God does.
What is your favourite verse? John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that while we were sinners He sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. Wow, imagine forgiving someone while they are still doing that exact same wrong thing right now.
If you could travel back to the past, which book of the Bible would you like to experience and why? Again, would have to say Exodus, to see the burning bush, the plagues and then of course the red sea split in the middle. Wow, what a sight that must have been. Who in the Bible inspires you the most? Surprise, Moses… He was a stuttering, murdering prince exiled out of his city, and God chose him to lead God’s
If there is one thing you could tell the younger you what would it be? Nothing, because my younger self would probably not listen anyway. But joking aside, I would tell the younger me, everything’s going to be OK, just trust and rely on God. What is your favourite Christian movie? This is kind of a tie between Risen and surprise, Exodus: Gods and Kings. What is your favourite Christian song? I can only imagine.
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TOUGH T OPI C S
The "D" word
Depression is something that is starting to become a common thing amongst people, especially children and teenagers. Can it be that it might not be a physical illness but, a spiritual one?
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ISSUE 1
There are a lot of opinions when it comes to depression and what people think the Bible has to say about it. Some believe it is all in the mind and that you control it, while others believe it might be sin or unforgiveness. Out of my own experience I can say that I don’t think it is just one thing that causes depression but, rather a few things. The first time I started getting really depressed was during my teenage years, peer pressure certainly played a big role but, as well as the high expectation I placed on myself. I convinced myself that I wasn’t good enough and either turned to other people’s opinion of me or what the “world” sees as good enough. Eventually it just spun out of control and I turned to the one thing that gave me pleasure and just fitted my feelings...heavy metal music. Now, I know what you are thinking, I’m saying that because of a certain type of music I got depressed. Nope, that is not what I’m trying to say, what I’m saying is that the music actually made it worse for me. It kept me in my bubble of depression, it convinced me that it was normal to feel like this. Eventually my mood just wanted dark things around me because colour was just too loud for my “spirit”. I started watching movies that were either a horror or something about death and sadness. Again, all of these things just added to my depression. I got involved with like-minded people and it just got even worse. I will never forget the first time I saw an actual demon, I was so terrified! It made me want to hurt myself just to get away from that image. Now, one thing I can absolutely 100% testify on, is the fact that music, movies, people and even books can open doors that aren’t even supposed to feature in your life! We are giving the devil so much authority in our lives that he starts to become comfortable. Recently we had to help close family do some “house cleaning” and the one morning I was busy brushing my teeth when I heard in my spirit that whatever thing is in their house is really comfortable. That “thing” has been there for decades. A few nights later we were all busy praying and something just upset it. We went upstairs to where we thought it was and asked the Holy Spirit to guide us. At certain places in the room I felt like I wanted to vomit that is how evil that thing was. The world made all of these things acceptable by saying, it is just a movie, or song or even a painting. Do you think the devil will show his true face to you to invite him into your home? No! He will come looking very attractive and inviting, slowly but surely you will give him more and more legal grounds in your home, family, finances and health. And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be [a]transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]. - Romans 12:2 [AMP]
There is a reason the Bible tells us to not be conformed to this world, demons feed off of our emotions and thoughts, if a spirit of depression decides to attack you, it will start to give you ideas to make your depression worse. Like listening to sad music or watching a horror movie, all of these things give it more authority in your life. My husband and I did some house cleaning ourselves about a year ago and let me tell you, our lives changed! Our house feels so much calmer. We don’t struggle with depression anymore, once in a blue moon we get a bit down but, we fight back. We stopped listening to commercial music as well and even some Christian music (not all Christian music is right). When we listen to commercial music now, our spirits literally feel dirty and annoyed, to me that just confirms the fact that the devil uses worldly things to get to us. We prayed for someone that went through really bad depression and mood swings and sure enough a demon manifested, once the demon was out it was like we were talking to a completely different person! Sin, unforgiveness and anything that has to do with this world can add to an attack or a demonic possession. It might only start with a thought but eventually it will start to need something to feed off and it will start to manifest in your life. We need to be vigilant about the things we allow into our homes and lives. There are a few things that can help you get out of depression like; staying in the Word, listening and watching positive things, surrounding yourself with people that can help you when you fall. Praying every time you start to feel depressed, sometimes it’s just an attack other times it can be a demon that took hold of you. There are so many things you can do to get rid of depression but, the one thing that will always work is God! Nothing is impossible for God, the only thing that limits God is our faith. When you turn to God wholeheartedly He will give you the strength and equip you (His Word) to fight the enemy. But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you [setting you on a firm foundation] and will protect and guard you from the evil one. - 2 Thessalonians 3:3 [AMP] Surrender all you have to Him and He will renew your mind, spirit and body. Cleansing you of all things that aren’t of Him. Depression isn’t something you are born with; no illness or disease is from God. We know [for a fact] that we are of God, and the whole world [around us] lies in the power of the evil one [opposing God and His precepts]. - 1 John 5:19 [AMP] If you struggle with depression please reach out to someone, don’t keep it to yourself, you can email us at info@pearldropmoments. co.za to talk to us or just need prayer. - PDM
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YOU A S K ED
You asked...
Do you have questions you would like to know regarding the Bible or Christianity? Email your questions to info@pearldropmoments.co.za Do you have to feel forgiven to be forgiven? This is a very interesting question and something that a group of us discussed not that long ago. I believe that there are times that you do feel forgiven, like the moment you come before God and repent and just give everything over to God, I know because that is something that happened to me. On the flip side the enemy comes and reminds you of your past and you start to feel guilty again for what you have done. At that moment it doesn’t feel like you are forgiven or that God is there, you feel more judgement than anything else. So, what does that mean then? That God is angry with you and you aren’t forgiven anymore? No! It simply means that you are in a spiritual battle with the enemy and need to stand strong on the Word of God. You are forgiven if you truly repent and turn away from your sins. Let me put it this way, when you are in a relationship with someone, when they do something that shows you they love you or tell you that they do, then you know. On the flipside if it has been a while that your partner has shown you or told you that they love you, then that doesn’t mean that suddenly, they don’t care anymore. You still know that they love you. See the enemy for what he is, a liar! Remember one thing, faith is believing in things unseen, it is the same with our feelings. You might not see that you are forgiven, you just know because of the Word of God! Does God ever speak to you when you are praying? Hebrews 1:1-3: 1God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; 3who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. God can speak to you in many ways, sometimes I would pray about something and receive my answer shortly after by reading the Bible. Sometimes it would be by looking at an object and a verse would come to mind and resonate with my current situation. God can speak to us in an endless amount of ways. PAGE 33
It can either be through a person, a prophetic word, a song or even a movie. Some people (not a lot I’ve gathered) have heard God’s actual voice. One night I was having quiet time and at first, I thought it was my husband calling me but, he kept saying it wasn’t him. So, I prayed and asked God to confirm in His Word that it was Him calling me, sure enough I opened the Bible where God was calling Samuel! I’ve heard of people hearing angels singing while they are praying, and other people receive visions. I think God talks to each of us in our own unique way. You should just ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you when God is talking to you. How does God talk to you? Email us your experience with God at info@pearldropmoments.co.za with the email subject GOD TALKING.
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R EA L LI F E
Stefan
THE STORY OF
This is an open letter from a mother of a beautiful little boy that has Mowat-Wilson syndrome. We hope that his story will touch you and maybe the Holy Spirit will lead you to get involved with this beautiful and very strong family.
had the strength to see my little champ, he looked very weak and dehydrated. Stefan still did not pass any meconium. The doctor came to see Stefan and advised us that Stefan will have to go for an MRI Brain scan on Friday the 29th January 2016. I was discharged on the Thursday and had to leave my precious little boy at the hospital. I thought to myself what have I done wrong? Why am I being the one that has to suffer like this?
We as parents were very delighted to find out that we were expecting in July 2015. At the 16 week mark, the routine blood works were done and the results were not what any family would have expected. The possibility was there that Stefan would have Down syndrome. The Doctor referred us to a fetal assessment center in Pretoria for an amniocenteses. When we arrived we were told what to expect and how the procedure would be done, the three week waiting period was dreadful. After three weeks we were contacted and to our surprise our baby boy did not have Down syndrome. They did mention that there is a bit of a problem with his heart that they could see when we went through the procedure and therefore they would recommend that our unborn child should be delivered via C-section. Stefan was born on the 26th January 2016 at 06:50 and was a healthy 3.4 kg and 51 cm long. He was diagnosed with hypospadias (a congenital condition in males in which the opening of the urethra is on the underside of the penis) right after birth. Stefan was then taken away for evaluation and was only brought to me in the afternoon where we tried breastfeeding him. One of the nurses then noticed that Stefan’s abdomen is extended and he did not pass any meconium. She immediately contacted the Doctor. The Doctor ordered her to take Stefan to the NICU. His blood sugar levels were extremely low. I could not visit Stefan in the NICU until the next morning. When I finally PA GE 3 5
Stefan was scheduled for the MRI Brain scan on Friday and as we waited I recall the nurse telling me that they are just waiting for the ambulance to transfer Stefan to a Hospital in Pretoria. My husband did not want to break the news to me like that, I just could not believe it and tears were running down my face. The test results came back and the Doctor confirmed that the corpus callosum (a broad band of nerve fibers joining the two hemispheres of the brain) has not developed. We as parents were shocked and did not know what the future might hold for us. When Stefan was transported to Pretoria, it felt like the longest ride of my life. Every noise of the monitors made me anxious and I kept on asking the paramedic if everything is fine with him. After arriving in Pretoria we met a whole new team of experts, and were welcomed with a smile. Within 30 minutes we saw a Professor and test were done on Stefan. Buy this time his little body was blue from all the needles pricking him. Every time they had to do more blood tests and he started crying, we also started crying. Stefan was scheduled for a biopsy on the Saturday morning. They said it would take about three hours and then he would be out of theatre. After one and a half hours, Stefan was out and we were told by the Professor that he might only have a blockage but he will only be able to tell us after he receives the results. Stefan being dehydrated because he hasn’t had milk from Tuesday afternoon concerned us a lot. We had to wait the whole weekend without knowing what is wrong with our son. First they thought that Stefan’s intestines was a bit narrow, but then he was diagnosed with Hirschprung’s disease ( Hirschsprung’s (HIRSH-sproongz) disease is a condition that affects the large intestine (colon) and causes problems with passing stool. The condition is present
ISSUE 1 at birth (congenital) as a result of missing nerve cells in the muscles of the baby’s colon. Hirschsprung disease is a developmental disorder characterized by the absence of ganglia in the distal colon, resulting in a functional obstruction.) Stefan was yet again scheduled to go to theatre on the Monday afternoon. The family waited in the theatre waiting room for three hours. When Stefan came out he had a colostomy bag (A colostomy is a surgical procedure that brings one end of the large intestine out through the abdominal wall. During this procedure, one end of the colon is diverted through an incision in the abdominal wall to create a stoma. A stoma is the opening in the skin where a pouch for collecting feces is attached. People with temporary or long-term colostomies have pouches attached to their sides where feces collect and can be easily disposed of.) Colostomies aren’t always permanent, especially in children with birth defects. We were then referred to a Genetic Pediatrician who came to see Stefan and sat us down and were advised that a heritable or chromosomal anomaly is suspected. Further testing was done and it was confirmed that Stefan has a Syndrome called Mowat Wilson Syndrome ((MWS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects many systems of the body. Some of the main features include intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, delayed development, and Hirschsprung disease. Other features may include microcephaly, structural brain abnormalities, epilepsy, short stature, and defects of the heart, urinary tract, or genitalia. MWS is caused by a mutation in the ZEB2 gene. It typically occurs for the first time in a person with MWS and is not inherited from a parent. Vary rarely, more than one child in a family will have MWS. Treatment depends on the symptoms present and focuses on the specific needs of each person.) Stefan had to go through number of operations such as: - an incision in the abdominal wall to create a stoma - anal pull through (Pull-through with colo-anal sleeve anastomosis
may be used as a last resort to avoid permanent diversion in patients with complex rectal conditions. This procedure allows the preservation of intestinal continuity by minimizing the hazards of deep dissection in an inflamed and fibrosed pelvis.) - colostomy closure - mal rotation (Intestinal malrotation is a congenital anomaly of rotation of the midgut (embryologically, the gut undergoes a complex rotation outside the abdomen). As a result: the small bowel is found predominantly on the right side of the abdomen) - hypospadias repair (is surgery to correct a defect in the opening of the penis that is present at birth. The urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body) does not end at the tip of the penis. Instead, it ends on the underside of the penis.) - grommets (When the middle ear is filled with fluid, the ear structures become less mobile and less capable of carrying sound vibrations to the inner ear. The type of hearing loss this causes is referred to as conductive because the sound is prevented from being properly ‘conducted’ through the middle ear to the hearing nerves in the inner ear.) Stefan then started getting Salaam attacks (1. a sudden involuntary contraction of a muscle or group of muscles. 2. a sudden, transitory constriction of a passage, canal, or orifice; spasms usually occur when the nerves supplying muscles are irritated, and are often accompanied by pain. A vasospasm is a rare type that occurs in a blood vessel. Spasms vary from mild twitches to severe convulsions and may be the symptoms of any number of disorders. Usually, they will cease when the cause is corrected, but sometimes the only treatment is to suppress the symptoms, as in epilepsy.) Although both of us were working Stefan had a caregiver looking after him, but Stefan suffers from a low immune system disorders cause abnormally low activity or over activity of the immune system. In cases of immune system over activity, the body attacks and damages its own tissues (autoimmune diseases). Immune deficiency diseases decrease
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R EA L LI F E
the body’s ability to fight invaders, causing vulnerability to infections) Stefan was more in Hospital than he was at home, which made it impossible for me to work, as the work did not always understand the circumstances when he was admitted. They however did support us and let me start working earlier to leave in time to take Stefan to all his therapy sessions (Occupational, Physio and Speech). At the end of April 2017, going into May 2017 Stefan was admitted to hospital four times and had to receive numerous antibiotics as his immune system was very low. The Doctor had to write a motivation letter to receive expensive medication to help to boost his immune system. This however only worked for a while and soon after that Stefan was admitted to hospital in August 2017 again. With Stefan being ill most of the time, we as family has decided for me to stay at home and look after Stefan. Even though I was at home, Stefan would still become ill and was admitted to hospital more than seven times after August 2017 as he struggles with his immune system. Stefan recently started eating high fiber cereals as he struggles with constipation. He still struggles with some tastes and textures of some foods and will make himself nauseas. This is all because of the sensory issues that are part of the syndrome. It has also been confirmed that
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Stefan is allergic to cow’s milk and cow’s milk products and cow’s milk protein. The Doctor advised that should Stefan not start eating well and gain weight there would be a possibility that they will have to insert a feeding tube. My husband being the only breadwinner now has to pay for everything and it leaves us with no money to pay extra medical bills that the Medical aid either won’t pay or short paid. Should anyone be able to assist please contact his mother Lynette Du Toit. (For safety reasons we did not include personal contact information. Should you wish to contact Lynette please email us at moniquevr@pearldropmoments.co.za) Stefan has a Facebook page (Baba Stefan Du Toit) that was created by one of my mom’s friends. We always give people updates on this page, share our difficulties and rejoice in the good times. You are more than welcome to join his Facebook page. Even if Stefan goes through a lot he is always happy and always smiles. Thank you for taking the time to read through the letter. - By Lynette Du Toit (Stefan’s mother)
ISSUE 1
REAL LIFE
Stefan HELP BABY
If you would like to help, support or donate to this family please email us at moniquevr@pearldropmoments.co.za
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I N T ERV I E W
Rise of the church bands - we decided to get to know a new and upcoming band from Kaleideo Church called Forever Young Worship. Talking about the struggles and responsibilities that come with being a Christian band and their first album.
You have a very interesting name, how did you decide on the name of your band? This band is a project that God started and will continue well beyond our capacity to stay in the music scene. Forever Young is a project that will grow to be a success irrespective of who invests their time into making it happen. Because when God plants a seed, no man can stop a tree from growing, and that tree will endure forever. How long have you all known each other? How did you meet? Most of us were brought together, miraculously, through our separate walks of life leading up to joining the band. Every member currently playing for Forever Young found some redemption and family in this group.
ego as a band to try to impress people with music you wrote. Using music that the crowd already knows helps them engage with the moment much more when they can focus on the Holy Spirit and not so much trying to keep up with new lyrics or melodies. With that being said, we are writing our first album in April 2018 and are very excited to see what God has in store for us writing as a group of servants to His will. We will be going on a sabbatical retreat together as a band into the wilderness and simply break away from the busy world for a couple of days to listen to God’s voice for this album. We will then piece-by-piece reveal these songs in our worship sets as of August 2018 to which we will then respond to the feedback and make adjustments to the first songs accordingly to make sure that the rest of the album will be well received by the crowds as well as honor God in every way. How do you prepare before a performance as a band?
Do you write your own songs or do you mostly do covers? I think that, for the most part, it is important for a Christian band in the worship scene to start out playing covers, for several reasons. Some of these reasons are that you discover what capacity and style your group members enjoy and have once you allow everyone to reference the music they listen to in their own lives. A second reason would be that when you make music that glorifies God, it’s really not about your
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Before a show we would show up to the venue early enough to get all the technical aspects out of the way such as, sound checks, vocal warm-ups, etc. We would then get together as a group (Technical crew and other helping hands included) for the service run-through and general prayer. Then the band would stay behind and we would enter a moment of
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intercession for the event and all that lies ahead. Then we will take the time to go hang out with the crowds outside the venue to either meet & greet or to find opportunities to pray with some of the brokenhearted who have come to these events searching for something deeper than what the world has to offer. We don’t get to minister face-to-face much with being on stage most of the time so it works to make time before or after the show for that. What has been your biggest challenge as a Christian band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how? The biggest challenge by far has been, as worship a band, to find musicians who would qualify to serve as a leader in this ministry. Most of the time musicians would come audition for a spot in the band who would have remarkable skill and talent, but their lives and doctrine would simply disqualify them from being a leader in the church. So, finding musicians with enough skill as well as not compromising on Biblical values is definitely a struggle. How did we overcome this challenge? We are definitely still working on this because the right way takes a lot longer to achieve than simply taking in every single person that comes your way. We currently do not have a bassist or pianist because of this motivation, and we will not take in anyone unless God absolutely sends someone in His time. We stand firm in getting to know a person before we consider their skill, and we let the Word of God guide us. Reading 1 Timothy 3 is a great guide for who should be allowed to work as a deacon or leader in a ministry.
Gospel as far we can. We play at Kaleideo Church in Kempton Park every Wednesday night at a great youth event called PAUSE Youth (Follow them on Instagram: @pauseyouth & Facebook: Pauseyouth) We are also very focused on our coming album and what God has in store for that journey. Do you think as a Christian band you have a big responsibility when it comes to your audience? You have a lot of people especially younger people looking up to you. Most definitely! I think that everyone needs to realize that, it doesn’t matter who you are, there is always someone looking up to you, wanting to be like you, and you carry that weight on you to ensure that whatever that person is learning from you is positive and Godly. So we keep that in mind being leaders in ministry and in the church we try to always represent Christ wherever we go. We make mistakes but, as it should be in the body of Christ, we edify and hold each other accountable for all our actions. This way, we have an open relationship and know where to go when we struggle or stumble. What is the main message you as a band would like to get across to your listeners? The Lord tells us to go forth in the World and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28), and all He requires is a willing and obedient heart. You do not need to be an ordained Pastor or theologian to spread the Gospel. All you need to do is listen to God’s voice, read the Bible and you will discover God’s plan and purpose for your life and He will take you places where you never would have gotten to on your own.
What are your musical icons/influences? How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? We draw inspiration from band like Hillsong United and Bethel, etc. because their songs are the more well-known song that you can cover as a band. When it comes to our writing style we draw inspiration from not only Christian bands. It is important for us as Christians to consider the fact that the World makes the best music because they are more open-minded to trying new things, in contrast to the culture we experience in church tradition. So we take the time to consider each band member’s taste in music all the way from, Our Last night, Linkin Park, Memphis Mayfire, to City & Colour, Matthew Mole, Ed Sheeran. What are your plans for the future? Our nearest plans are to play more venues and events to spread the
Right now you can come to our shows. We are at Pause Youth every Wednesday night 18:30. Also follow us on social media (Instagram: @foreveryoung_za / Facebook: foreveryoungworship) so you and your friends can stay up to date on when our Album will be dropping and when we will be playing at your school, church or event! We also host big Worship Night events once a term (All ages welcome). Check out the events on Facebook! You can also contact us for bookings on 064 901 9881.
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7 Questions with Forever Young
1. What is your favorite Christian book at the moment? Gideon - Ordering your private World (Gordon MacDonald) Dianke - Faith like potatoes (Angus Buchan) Erik - The Holy Bible Roan - The Holy Bible Mieke - Heaven is for real (Lynn Vincent & Todd Burpo)
THE BAND: Gideon du Preez(27) Band MD, Vocals & Guitar
Dianke Adams(18) Lead Female Vocals
Erik Pieterse(24) Lead male vocals & Guitar
Roan Smith(19) Drums & Percussion
Mieke Smith(16) Vocals
CONTACT DETAILS: Feel free to contact us on our social media pages, otherwise you can get hold of us at: gideon@kaleideo.co.za | 064 901 9881 Or visit us at Kaleideo Church (32 fiskaal Str. Glen Marais, Kempton Park) every Wednesday night @ 18:30.
2. What is your favorite Christian movie at the moment? Gideon - The prince of Egypt (1999) Dianke - Faith like potatoes movie Erik - Hacksaw Ridge Roan - War Room Mieke - God’s Not Dead 3. What is your favorite Christian song at the moment? Gideon - The Finisher (Oh Sleeper) Dianke - It is Well (Bethel) Erik - Head to the heart - United Pursuit Roan - I Surrender (Hillsong United) Mieke - Even when it hurts (Hillsong United) 4. If you could travel back to the past, which book of the Bible would you like to experience and why? Gideon -1st Kings (I would have loved to meet the Prophet Elijah ad seen how he walked in God’s spirit even when the Holy Spirit hadn’t been made available for everyone) Dianke - John (It is the book that has encouraged my faith the most of all) Erik - Exodus – I would give anything to experience God as Moses did. To see the cloud and thunder. The Almighty glory. Roan - Genesis (There I would see what world without sin looked like in the Garden of Eden, it gives me hope for the Kingdom come) Mieke - Genesis (To see the World in its purest and to walk with God) 5. Who in the Bible inspires you the most? Gideon - Besides Jesus I am intrigued by the Love that Peter had towards Jesus. I would love to harness that love for the people around me. Dianke - Abraham, His Faithfulness and obedience to the point that he would sacrifice his son grips me. Erik - Joshua, for being such a fearless leader. Roan - Job, Even when all was stripped away from him, he still stood fast in God’s promise. Mieke - Jesus Himself, Despite all the hate He just kept going on doing what He was called to do and treated everyone with love in His heart. 6. What is your favorite verse? Gideon - Wow, can I say Genesis 1:1 – Revelation 21:21? Dianke - Philippians 4:13 Erik - Romans 8:31 Roan - Psalms 23 Mieke - 1 Corinthians 13:7
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7. If there is one thing you could tell the younger you what would it be? Gideon - Live each moment to be better than the last! Dianke - Have faith and always look to God for your answers. He is truly the all-powerful, all-knowing God. Erik - Make time… Roan - To never give up no matter what the situation because God has a bigger plan for you and is only using the tough times to make you strong for what is to come Mieke - Don’t be shy to show the world the talents God gave to you!
INTERVIEW
ISSUE 1
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F I NA L T H O UGH T S
Rest in God
If you are in a season of waiting be sure to rest in God, rest knowing that He is in control. Rest knowing that your needs are being taken care of. Rest knowing that no weapon formed against you will prosper Rest knowing that the enemy can’t touch you. Rest knowing that no sickness will last, because it was already defeated on the cross. Rest knowing that depression was defeated on the cross. Rest knowing that you are allowed to REST, you need rest. But ultimately... Rest knowing that you are 100% absolutely LOVED by The Maker of heaven and earth, the Great I Am, the King of kings! Hallelujah!
- Monique PA GE 4 3
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