Treasure Bible study guide - Oct to Dec

TREASURE

Helping Women Fulfill the Great Commission

REFRESH | WHEN THE GREAT COMMISSION COMES TO YOU | UNNAMED

BIBLE STUDIES

IN EVERY ISSUE

TREASURE

ISSN 8960038

Volume 111, Number 4

Editorial Staff

Ruth McDonald, Editor-in-Chief

Phyllis York, Managing Editor

Tori Matlock, Design

WNAC Board

Amy Johnson, Michigan

Sharon Dickey, Texas

Jonda Patton, Kentucky

Sarah Sargent, Ohio

Tracy Payne, Oklahoma

LeeAnn Wilfong, Missouri

Khristi Shores, Oklahoma

Jessica Edwards, Tennessee

Katie Postlewaite, South Carolina

Contributors

Amy Johnson, Michigan

Sarah Sargent, Ohio

Alicia Bunch Vargas, Tennessee

Tracy Jennette, Tennessee

Melanie Franks, Alabama

TREASURE (ISSN 8960038) is produced quarterly by Women Nationally Active for Christ of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc., 5233 Mount View Road, Antioch, TN 37013-2306. Copyright privileges reserved. A 2023 Member of Evangelical Press Association.

Mail questions or comments to: Treasure, PO Box 5002, Antioch, TN 37011-5002

treasure@wnac.org | wnac.org |

Ruth McDonald, Tennessee

About the Colunnist: Amy Johnson chairs the WNAC board of directors. Along with a love of all four seasons, Amy has a heart for missions and enjoys working with children.

Thoughts From Amy

BY AMY JOHNSON

The “ber” months are here! Although summer was fun, some have great joy once the calendar rolls to September 1. The “ber” months are refreshing, bringing a break from the heat with cooler days, pumpkin spice everything, and all the other activities fall brings.

If you know me, you most likely know I love the seasons. It’s hard to imagine living in a place without defined seasons. I love when winter gives way to spring, and new life appears as green returns to the earth—then enjoying long summer days with late summer nights. By the time autumn rolls around, I’m ready for the majestic colors of fall leaves, cozy sweaters, and some outside bonfire time. Yet there’s nothing quite like watching huge white flakes blanket the earth in a pure, clean, fresh snowfall as winter takes its place. Although I must admit, the older I get, the more I like to watch the snow from a window once or twice, and then I’m somewhat content. No need to have to deal with it long term! I honestly cannot choose a favorite season; I like them all.

In Philemon 1:7, Paul admonishes Philemon, “For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.” We must seek to love others and uplift those we encounter. While our world continues to spin (sometimes seemingly out of control), we must hold fast, knowing God is in control and we can be a source of encouragement, love, and help minimizing our complaints and problems and bringing positive energy instead of adding to a draining environment.

As we conclude our Bible studies on “Faith in Culture,” I hope you have been encouraged to live out your faith wherever you are in this season and to reach out to those around you. I hope you’ve been challenged to be a disciple-maker and, see what God is doing around you and join Him. God is at work every day; it is up to us to find, follow, and be obedient to His leading and guiding.

As the changing seasons bring a sense of refreshment, we are also responsible for refreshing those around us.

Sweet tea on a sunny day. Dipping your toes in a cool creek on a hot day. Crisp fall air. A pretty song. Watching kids play. A meaningful conversation with a friend. Reading the Psalms. These are things that refresh me in different ways. The word refresh means to reinvigorate, energize or strengthen—all necessary to live a faithful and thriving life. There are things I do alone that refresh my soul, and there are things I do with others that also bring refreshment. We need community and solitude in our lives to practice giving and receiving God’s refreshing love. It is essential to develop rhythms and routines in our lives, so we can faithfully and sustainably serve the Lord.

To experience refreshment, one must know what exhaustion or fatigue feels like. Recognizing what refreshment and exhaustion feel like spiritually, mentally, and physically is crucial. There is a consistent need to be refreshed in our journey of following Jesus. In Exodus 23:12, rest is related to refreshment as a part of the Sabbath. Paul speaks of the Christian life being a race (2 Timothy 4:7). Maintaining a pace and prolonging endurance are important when running a race. Human bodies have specific needs; water and food maintain stamina and health. Likewise, in our spiritual journey, we need nourishment and refreshment. Scripture alludes to refreshment and growth in Psalm 23:3, Proverbs 11:25. The nourishment Christians need can come through reading Scripture, meditating on it, and encouraging each other in love through words and prayer.

David explains refreshment coming from God (Psalm 23:3). Paul mentions refreshment coming from people (I Corinthians 16:18). In I Samuel 16:23, David played his harp, and Scripture says, “Saul was refreshed and was well.” Examples of refreshment even come from Jesus’ interactions in the Bible. Jesus offers the woman at the well “living water” in John 4:10.

At the heart of many of these relational refreshments is a personal relationship. In the examples of mutual

refreshment in Scripture, a personal relationship allows one person to speak to another and offer words or actions bringing about deeper healing and refreshment—sometimes physically, sometimes spiritually. Discernment is needed about how we approach providing refreshment to others (depending on the closeness of our relationship with them). When we read the Gospel of Luke, we see numerous examples of Jesus offering spiritual and physical healing. He was discerning in every single interaction. Addressing physical and spiritual needs demonstrates God’s concern for our spiritual and physical needs.

In the book of Philemon, Paul mentions how Philemon has refreshed “the hearts of the saints” (verse 7). Paul speaks of a spiritual refreshment within the body of believers. He must know what it feels like for a relationship to be exhausting if he can identify his relationship with Philemon refreshed him. The book of Philemon offers some insight into how Christians might approach others who are different or who might have unique needs. Philemon, a slave owner, and Onesimus, a slave, were from two different social positions.

Paul acknowledges the way Philemon has been refreshing to believers (verse 7) and asks he continue offering refreshment to Paul through the news of how he is treating others (verse 20). The book of Philemon can be an example of how we can be the refreshing aroma of Christ to those around us (2 Corinthians 2:15-17).

Paul wrote the book of Philemon while he was imprisoned in Rome or possibly in Ephesus. The book was written to Philemon, who might have been Colossae’s leader or one of the church leaders. Paul addresses Philemon regarding his slave, Onesimus, who presumably escaped, encountered Paul, and was converted. It would have been common for slaves to run away and live in a bigger city to avoid being found. Another possibility is Philemon sent Onesimus to Paul for some intended purpose. The passage does not mention if he was a runaway slave or if Philemon had sent him to help Paul.

Paul commands reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus. Paul addresses Philemon as the slave owner, recognizing the power dynamics at play and the responsibility Philemon has for Onesimus, not just as a slave master, but as a brother in Christ (Galatians 3:28). Paul could have written the letter to Onesimus and encouraged him to return to Philemon. Instead, we see Paul admonishing Philemon as the slave owner with the most authority to take action.

We do not hear Onesimus’ voice in this letter. We don’t know if he asked Paul to write the letter on his behalf. We do not know if Onesimus was being returned to Philemon against his will. We do know, Onesimus had a relationship with both Paul and Philemon. We aren’t sure of the nature of the relationship, but we know Onesimus is at the heart of the message of Philemon. Paul’s relationship with Onesimus and Philemon propelled him to write this meaningful letter. Beyond the earthly relationships present, we see the spiritual relationship with the Lord compelling the love present in the words Paul wrote.

Paul communicates how he is interceding for Onesimus. He has heard of the love and faithfulness to the Lord that Philemon’s love has demonstrated for his brothers and sisters. Paul also commends him for the refreshment he has brought to those around him. Philemon was in a position of power since he was a slave master. He used his position to bless those around him and did so lovingly. Paul highlights the loving community Philemon is a part of as a sign of their relationship with Jesus.

Paul expresses himself boldly when he asks Philemon to consider how he sees Onesimus. Paul shows his profound love for Onesimus when he appeals to Philemon saying he is sending his very heart (verse 12). Here, we see the love Paul has. In verse 16, Paul asks Philemon to see Onesimus as a brother through the lens of the gospel of love. Philemon and Onesimus might be in different social positions, but Paul urges Philemon to put those differences aside. In verse

20, Paul asks Philemon to continue to refresh him through how he interacts and sees Onesimus.

In her book Redeeming Power, Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church, Diane Langberg highlights:

In Isaiah 61:4, God promises, ‘They will rebuild the ancient ruins…raise up the former devastations, repair…..the desolations of many generations’ (NASB) This promise follows a description of Christ, who came for the poor, the brokenhearted, the incarcerated, and the enslaved. In coming to ‘them’ he rebuilt ruins and healed generations. In Zechariah 8:4-5 we read ‘Old men and old women will sit in the streets of Jerusalem….and the city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.’ The most vulnerable—the elderly and the young–will be safe in the streets. God will restore a place of safety and laughter and blessing for all. No exceptions. Bearing God’s image means responding to ruin where we find it and pouring our blessing in that place so that it can be transformed. This depicts what the Kingdom of God looks like for those who have suffered immeasurably, but also what it looks like to offer refreshment to others as God’s children. There is safety, there is joy, and there is blessing. When working with survivors who have experienced trauma, safety is one of the foundations of the healing process. Many individuals lose a sense of safety because they have had to fend off threats for so long. Building emotional and physical safety is so important when interacting with trauma survivors. Diane Langberg reminds us of the role we can play in bringing refreshment to those around us who are suffering or might need an encouraging word. We can build emotionally and physically safe spaces allowing individuals to grow and experience true refreshment.

I have been trained as a Clinical Social Worker. I work at a non-profit agency providing therapy and advocacy services to survivors of sexual assault. We are encouraged to practice self-care to mitigate burnout. I must constantly examine what is in my heart and how much I have to give. I often ask myself, “Am I being refreshed so I can offer that same refreshment to

my clients?” Sometimes I must remember the things that nourish my soul and find ways to build those into my daily rhythm. To identify how I am receiving and giving nourishment, I need to find time and space to reflect on how my soul is doing. If I do not carve out intentional time to reflect, I am in danger of losing sight of how I am giving and receiving refreshment.

Because we do not have the same forms of slavery that existed in the Roman Empire, it can be challenging to relate to Paul’s interceding on behalf of Onesimus. However, there are modern forms of slavery, like human trafficking. I spent four years in Bolivia working for an organization helping women who were in the sex trade. We often partnered with International Justice Mission (IJM) to support their work to bring about freedom from sex trafficking. The mission of the International Justice Mission is “to protect people in poverty from violence by rescuing victims, bringing criminals to justice, restoring survivors to safety and strength, and helping local law enforcement build a safe future that lasts.” At times I experienced incredibly refreshing hospitality from those who had escaped slavery through the work of IJM. It took time to build relationships with those freed from slavery or their family members. The foundation of the relational refreshment was a shared desire to be of service to each other. Those individuals knew I was far from home and wanted to offer hospitality. I knew the individuals needed to experience freedom and God’s refreshing love.

Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of refreshment. Refreshment should be a part of our daily walk. The book of Philemon offers a glimpse into what refreshment can look like for people who might be different from one another. As Christians, we are called to be refreshment to the world.

The hymn “Give Reviving,” written by Albert Midlane and Chelsea Scott, speaks to the relational aspect of giving refreshment through gospel-centered interactions:

1. Father for Thy, promised blessing, Still we plead before Thy throne For the times of, sweet refreshing, Which can come from Thee alone Blessed earnests, Thou hast given, But in these we would not rest Blessings still with, Thee are hidden, Pour them forth and make us blest!

2. Prayer ascendeth to Thee ever, Answer! Father, answer prayer Bless oh bless each, weak endeavor, Blood-bought pardon to declare Wake Thy slumbering, children wake them, Bid them to Thy harvest go Blessings O our, Father make, Round their steps let blessings flow

3. Let no people be forgotten, Let Thy showers on all descend That in one loud blessed anthem, Millions may in triumph blend Give reviving, give refreshing, Give the looked-for Jubilee To Thyself may, crowds be pressing, Bringing glory unto Thee

May we be women who seek to advocate for those different from us; may we have the courage to encourage our siblings who need refreshment. May we find ways to refresh those around us through God’s love.

About the Writer:

Alicia Bunch Vargas is a licensed clinical social worker. She currently lives in Nashville, TN. She enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with friends and family.

PRACTICAL TIPS:

Are there people in your life you can intercede on behalf of as Paul did for Onesimus?

Who are the people you can receive spiritual refreshment from?

How are you demonstrating communal love and refreshment to those around you?

What rhythms or routines do you have that bring refreshment to your soul?

Are there individuals who might live in a different context than you that you can “refresh” through building a personal relationship (Widows, orphans, imprisoned, homeless, abuse survivors)?

Refugees in Nashville—Who are they?

BY Tracy Janette

Who exactly are the folks who’ve moved to Nashville from different parts of the world? How do we best serve them?

As many already know, Nashville has the largest Kurdish population outside of Kurdistan. There are approximately 20,000 Kurdish residents. Who are the Kurds? The Kurds are a people group of Persian descent indigenous to a region in the Middle East (that today encompasses several countries – Iraq, Iran, Armenia, Turkey, and Syria). They are primarily from villages where they grow beautiful and productive gardens. The same goes for Kurds in Nashville—they are great gardeners and contributing members of society. Second-generation Kurds are being born in Nashville now…so their parents were born and reared in Nashville. They now have college educations and jobs that contribute to our thriving economy. You’ll find the Kurds to be extremely hospitable. Once you make friends with a Kurd, they’ll have you in their home quickly enjoying a meal and tea together! And honestly, that goes for almost any Middle Eastern country. Hospitality is an esteemed virtue in those cultures. By the way, visiting Newroz Market (especially in the morning) is a MUST to pick up freshly baked Kurdish bread!

Nashville is also home to many Somalis (Africa), Sudanese (Africa), and, of course, Hispanic (from many Central and South American countries). Nashville has folks from so many countries, including Afghanistan and Ukraine. And catch this! The Nashville Public School System has students who were born in 145 different countries! Yes! And those students speak a total of 135 languages.

So, of course, a challenge for us is to help these students and their parents to learn English. Another challenge is housing. Previously, Nashville had a low cost of living and was ideal for receiving refugees. But now, newly arriving refugees can’t afford to live in the urban core. Recent Afghani refugees had to be housed north of Nashville on Dickerson Pike.

If you’d like to invest in the life of a Nashvillian refugee, consider these organizations:

• Servant Group International (walk in the park with a refugee; sewing classes)

• The Branch of Nashville (food pantry, English classes)

• Legacy Mission Village (youth tutoring, summer programs)

• Nashville International Center for Empowerment (many services)

Editor’s Note: This is just an example of the countries God is bringing to our doorstep. Take the time to investigate your local community, city, or county, and discover the opportunities God is giving you.

About the Writer:

Tracy has been involved in Information Technology for over 30 years. Also, God has given her a love for His peoples, “ethne,” worldwide. She was privileged to live and walk among one such group in the Middle East and has traveled to 20+ countries, experiencing the wonderful cultures of the world. Domestically, she involves herself in ESL, friendship/hospitality, international food pantries, leading summer high school missions among our nation’s immigrant populations, and sharing God’s love and amazing forgiveness through all things. She enjoys gardening, hiking, and cooking the world’s cuisines.

When the Great Commission Comes to You

BY Judy Lytle

ALL AND SO TWO LITTLE WORDS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD

Matthew 28:18-20, John 3:16, Revelation 7:9, Matthew 28:18-20

Matthew 28:18-20

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, all power [authority] is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations [make disciples], baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them [these new disciples] to observe [obey] all things [commands] whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

John 3:16

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Let’s take a fresh look at the familiar passages of Matthew 28:18-20 and John 3:16. How can we apply these passages to 2023? What does it mean for us when the world an ocean away is now living next door? Does that suggest our mandate to go to all nations has changed? No, some are still called to go to different places across the globe and share the Good News of Christ. God has a global heart. Maybe because God so

loved the world, He brought the “ends of the earth” to our front door. That doesn’t necessarily mean we have failed in carrying out His final command, but God, in His divine sovereignty, knowing the times, has brought many to us. They are here! We can reach them for Christ from where we live. But how?

In these passages, we will examine two words of importance. They are “All” and “So.” Have you ever thought of the profound meaning each of these words holds?

Did Jesus know today’s world would look totally different from the world of AD 33? Of course! Our world today is different from the world in the 1950s (when I was a child growing up in rural Southeast Missouri). At that time, the “world around me” was basically the same as I was. We all had the same skin color, culture, and education level. “Sameness” described my world. When you live in a community where everyone is mostly the same, you think the entire world is just like you. Naturally, when I thought of reaching people for Christ from other cultures, I thought of places far away, not down the street from me. I thought people looked different on the outside but were like me on the inside; I assumed they thought and felt like I did.

As a child, I couldn’t understand the idea of different languages. I supposed everybody thought in English and just spoke a different language but would be able to understand me. Naïve I was. When I moved to St. Louis, Missouri and attended a large high school, the other students and teachers couldn’t understand my country accent, and I was speaking English! Later, when we were studying Spanish in a language school in Costa Rica, I began to see the differences in languages and their importance to each culture.

Language is not the only difference in cultures. Values, family life, food, and many other things separate us culturally from others. When we were appointed missionaries to Panama back in 1975, we studied culture acquisition (understanding and adapting to different cultures). Most missionaries study this. Christ is for all nations and cultures, but if the missionary doesn’t

understand the culture of those he is called to serve, he can’t adequately present Christ. One must use different terminology and strip off the superfluous we might think is essential here in the US. Here are some examples. Is a church building absolutely necessary? What about a piano or keyboard? Do service times have to be like in the States? What about a Christmas tree? The Easter Bunny?

Another example is from an indigenous group in Panama, the Wounaan. When the missionary told them after they accepted Christ, they should share the Good News of Jesus with others; they could not understand why. In their culture, they kept anything good and important to themselves. The idea of sharing this good news of Jesus with others was absurd and difficult to understand for them. Why would they want to do that? If Jesus was as wonderful as they were told, they should keep Him in their hearts and enjoy Him, not share with others. Daily teaching and the missionaries living a Christlike life of sharing with others helped them understand. They finally did, and today, there is a growing church among this indigenous group. As they began to tell others about Jesus and share Him, they realized He was growing inside them. They had not given away this treasure of Christ. He was still with them more than ever! The missionaries studied and learned their culture to better present Christ to them.

God’s Power—Matthew 28:18

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, all power [authority] is given unto me in heaven and in earth.”

Jesus lived, taught His disciples, died, was buried, and rose again. His resurrection was a confirmation of His authority. He conquered death! Only Jesus could (and can) say with absolute certainty that all power is His both in heaven and earth. What does “all” mean? As Eric Hankins said, “All means all.” All is everything, the whole lot. Nothing is missing. He has the totality of authority and power on earth and in heaven given to Him by the Father. We can’t comprehend this. His power was shown when He parted the Red Sea, fed the Israelites in the desert for 40 years, raised the dead,

healed the sick, rose from the grave, saved our sinful souls, and the list goes on.

Christ said He has all power. What is power? Some defining words are control, energy, and strength. He can do anything! As the children’s song says, “My God is so big, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do.” He has all power!

What does Christ’s power have to do with us and doing His will and carrying out this command?

The greatest demonstration of His power was when He rose from the dead. Only God could do this. Because of this, He assures us of His authority. This is a promise to live by! He asks us to do something and supports us with all His power. He has our backs! He is for us!

Apply It: Before giving His disciples the task of the ages, He gave them the confidence to do it. They (and we) are not working in our human strength and power. The one with all power backs us. It is easy to be intimidated and frightened by the unbelievers around us. They argue against the Gospel, and we grow weary. We can assume a position of confidence because Christ has all power. Can you think of times you felt this power as you shared the good news of Jesus Christ?

Our Task—Matthew 28:19

19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations [make disciples], baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Another translation states, “As you go, make disciples.” This is a lifestyle, not a one-time event. As we live each day at home, school, work, or play, we should be making disciples.

Where? All nations. This time all refers to every people group in the world. All refers to people the same as us. All is that bad-tempered neighbor down the street. All is the hard to please co-worker. All is the Hispanic in Mexico, Panama, and in your city. All is the person in Africa and the African American in your neighborhood. All is the Muslim in Iran and the

Muslim close by. Do you get the picture? We are to go, teach, and baptize all people. Who does this leave out? No one!

Have you ever noticed some folks in churches here in the US are willing to send missionaries across the ocean to Africa or another country but would not befriend or welcome a person from that same race or country into their neighborhood or church? How do you react to other cultures and ethnicities? How do you feel when you hear Spanish spoken all around you in Walmart? Can you honestly say you welcome all people into your church?

You may be thinking, “I know people from other cultures live close to me. I know they need Christ as much as I do, but how can I get to know them? How can I share God’s love and the good news of Jesus with them? I’m clueless. They are so different, and we don’t understand each other.”

Possible reasons we are hesitant to reach out to those of other cultures:

1. Fear—They are different; we have heard horror stories about drugs, crime, violence, etc. We are afraid of them.

2. Language difference—We can’t understand them. They can’t understand us.

3. Culturally different—Their entire lifestyle is different.

4. Prejudice—Whether consciencely or unconsciously, we may be biased regarding other races or cultures.

When talking about different cultures around us, we refer primarily to two groups. First, there are the international students. They are in the US on student visas to study and return to their home country. Secondly, there are refugees (immigrants) settling here to flee persecution in their home country or in search of a better life for their family. One of the largest groups of immigrants is the Hispanic group.

Please, don’t let excuses stop you from reaching out. Fight your fear, misunderstanding, and prejudice with:

Facts—Refugees are among the most vetted foreigners to enter our country.

Understanding—Most seek the same things you want for yourself and your family. Try to understand their motives.

Love—Love drives away fear. Look at I John 4:18a. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear…” I learned the above way to fight fear from Across the Street and Around the World by Jeannie Marie. I highly recommend this book to anyone serious about reaching the world around them.

Knowledge—Take the first step to get to know them. Learn about their culture and a few words in their language.

Overcome prejudice (pre-judging)—Recognize it exists and change actions and attitudes. Take the first step.

Most of us would say we are not prejudiced, but is that true? When we look at another person or culture as inferior to us, we pre-judge them.

God gives us a perfect example. Let’s look at the familiar verse, John 3:16. This helps confirm the reach of God’s love for all of humanity and His lack of prejudice.

How can we define that little word “so?” One definition is “to such a great extent.” Another is “and for this reason.” I’m sure you can think of others. How would you define this little word?

What did John mean when he said, “For God so loved the world?” The little word so has many meanings. It is so common in English; we use it without thinking. See, I just did!

Here is John 3:16 in the New Living Translation. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

We can see God’s heart when we put John 3:16 with Matthew 28:18-20. He loves all people, the rich, the poor, the clean, the dirty, the homeless, the murderer,

and the foreigners across the street. His love reaches every person who ever lived or will ever live. It reaches everyone, even the foreigner among us!

A Biblical Perspective Regarding Foreigners

Several words mean foreigner. The Bible uses sojourner, stranger, alien, foreigner, outsider, and even Gentile.

There are dozens of verses in the Old Testament addressing foreigners and how God’s people were supposed to treat them. God loved them and made provision in the law for them. What do these passages say about the strangers (foreigners) living in Israel?

Leviticus 19:9-10: you shall not reap or glean the __________ but ___________ for the poor and the stranger. (Make provision for them)

Leviticus 19:33-34: not _____ him but ______ him as ___________. (Treat them as you want to be treated)

Numbers 15:16: One _______ and one __________ shall be for you and the stranger that sojourneth with you. (Nondiscriminatory)

These are only a few of the dozens of references in the Old Testament referring to the treatment of foreigners.

The New Testament also addresses this. In Matthew 25:35b, Jesus said, I was a ______________ and you took me in. (Caring for others)

1 Timothy 3:7 - And he must have a good __________ of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (Good reputation)

Reaching and Teaching Out of Our Comfort Zone—Matthew 28:20

20 Teaching them [these new disciples] to observe [obey] all things [commands] whatsoever I have commanded you.”

We are to teach everyone to obey all the commands Jesus has given us. Teach them to love God, love others, live moral lives according to His word, pray, study

the Bible, and teach others the same thing. It is a cycle meant to continue from generation to generation.

It may take weeks, months, and maybe years to see someone you have worked with come to Christ. Be patient. Those acts of kindness, the Scriptures you share, your motivation, and your love will point them to the Savior. The Holy Spirit will do the work in their hearts. This is discipleship.

Apply It: Are you a disciple? Who is your disciple? We all need to be one and have one or more. One of your disciples could be an international. Why not?

Christ concludes His final command in Matthew 28: 20 with these words:

“… and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

This is His promise to believers. We are never alone as we step out of our comfort zone; He is with us and will never leave us. He was with John, Peter, and the other disciples the instant these words left His mouth, and He ascended into Heaven. He was with the church fathers and our ancestors. He is with us and will be with our decedents who love and serve Him. Remember the little word, “all?” He is with all of us.

When we meet a stranger on the street and don’t know what to do or say, remember Jesus is with us. Pray for His Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Pray each day God will put people in your path who need Him and ask Him to guide you in learning ways to connect with them.

Be willing to move outside your comfort zone. Become a friend to someone not the same as you. Be friendly.

Smile and say hello in the grocery store.

If you have a neighbor from another country or race, greet them and meet up to take a walk.

Invite someone not the same as you (foreigner) to a meal or coffee. Most international students in the US have never been in an American home.

Your child’s teammates on a sport’s team may be immigrants. Talk with them. Get to know their parents. Make friends. Share Christ.

Learn about other cultures, so you are not totally clueless.

Ask them questions. Be interested in their story. Tell them your story (testimony).

Be guided by the Holy Spirit and go beyond just being friendly. Share the message of salvation.

We can express God’s heart to our world around us and fulfill the command He gave us by taking some of the following steps:

Action Steps in Moving Forward

• English classes: Start a class in your church or volunteer as a conversation partner in person or on Zoom. Most large cities have several opportunities to do this. (Google ESL classes near me.) In small towns, you may need to be more creative and offer English to a small group of women or a mixed group.

• University student ministry: Check with local universities or colleges to see if they have a ministry with internationals. Get involved by being a conversation partner, having students in your home for a meal, or other ways.

• Good News Club: Talk with your pastor and others in your church about starting a Good News Club (Bible club) in a local public school near your church. Child Evangelism Fellowship has directors in almost every state and can explain your church’s commitment and will also train the teachers. Not only can you reach children from the US and even other countries, but you are also reaching the parents and families of those children. Check out www.cefonline.com.

• Help meet new arrivals’ needs, such as food, clothing, and medicine. Our church has helped several Hispanic families adjust to life in the US. Many immigrants arrive in the States with only the clothes on their backs. Go with them to organizations that help immigrants. Introduce them to a clinic for medical care, thrift stores, Goodwill, and Walmart. Take them to a park where their children can play.

• Empower instead of enabling them. This is so important. Yes, an immigrant family may need help to furnish an apartment and feed their family. Your church can bless them in these ways. Constant help like this should end as they acclimate into society. It doesn’t need to be ongoing. Occasionally, a family may need extra help because of a crisis or unexpected expense, but they want to be self-sufficient. Empower

them to be self-sufficient. They don’t want to be dependent on you or your church.

• Answer questions regarding immigration, medical care, housing, and employment. If you don’t know the answer, find someone who does. Be a facilitator.

• Listen to their story. Why are they here? How did they get here? What family members do they have left in their country of origin? It is like losing a loved one. It is healing for them to talk about it. Let me warn you. Their stories will break your heart and, at the same time, show you God’s tender love for them.

• If the immigrants you meet are Hispanic, investigate where the closest Hispanic Free Will Baptist Church is located or where a Free Will Baptist Church with a ministry in Spanish is. Try to connect the Hispanics you meet with a church that can minister to them.

• Respect them, their culture, and their religion. Their culture is different from yours, but show them respect and don’t abuse or humiliate them. Don’t put down their religion. God loves all people.

• Pray (with their permission) for them and for God to meet their needs.

• Talk about Christ. Share your testimony. They may disagree, but they will respect you.

• Don’t be surprised to find out the immigrant you meet is a Christian and looking for a church.

If you research a bit (Google it), you will find organizations working with immigrants and international students. You can be a volunteer to help. It is amazing how God will put people in your path when you take the first step to get out of your comfort zone.

Apply It: Think about your community. Who are the groups of people and families in need of Christ and of your love and friendship? Pray God will open doors for you to minister to them.

We are motivated to act when we see the world as God sees it. Why?

1. Because it’s our job description given by Christ.

2. Because we realize God so loved all the world, and in

turn, so should we.

3. Because Revelation 7:9 is true, will someday happen, and will be part of our reward in heaven.

The Same But Different—Revelation 7:9

After this, I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.

In this verse, we see a final and very significant reason for us to reach out to those not the same. In heaven, we will be surrounded by “sameness” in the sense we will all be redeemed by the blood of the Lamb and praising God. But we also will be surrounded by “different,” and we will love every minute of it for all eternity. There will be saints from every tribe, culture, and nation around God’s throne. Having relationships here on earth with people from other countries and cultures

and reaching them for Christ allows us to experience a tiny piece of what it will be like in heaven.

This study is aimed toward the internationals among us. Can you see the heartbeat of God for all people? We can apply these passages to everyone because He loves the world so. There is no end to His great love, and His last command was to go, teach, and baptize all people. This is our challenge, and it is doable.

About the Writer:

Judy Lytle grew up in southeast Missouri. In 1972, she graduated from Welch College and married Steve, her husband of 50 years. They began their missionary career in Panama in 1977 and retired in 2015. Judy is a proud wife, mom to three great sons, mother-in-law to three lovely daughtersin-law, and grandmother to 11 beautiful grandchildren (ten on earth and one in heaven). She serves in her home church Cofer’s Chapel Free Will Baptist and is passionate about reaching internationals, locally and abroad.

Useful Resources for the Great Commission and You:

Bible (various passages)

Marie, Jeannie, Across the Street and Around the World, Nelson Books, Nashville, TN, 2018.

https://www.migrationpolicy.org/programs/migration-information-source/ https://www.perspectives.org/

https://www.cefonline.com

Know Your Community—a resource availabe from NAFWB Executive Office. Call 877-767-7659 for more information.

John Weaver —National Convention 2021

2023 National Convention

Seminars

Amy McDonald’s seminar Greatly Loved reminded young ladies they are of great worth in the eyes of the Lord. We cannot depend upon our feelings but on the truths in God’s Word. She sang songs she had written and gave her testimony that inspired those songs. She was reminded by the truths in God’s Word and the loving encouragement of her parents that she was and is greatly loved, and so are we.

Celebration Service

Missionaries Allison Feight (ND), Kellie Penn (International Students, USA), Tammy Miller (CO), and Brenda Carney (JP) celebrated how God is working in the places God has called them too.

Dr. Kenneth Eagleton thanked the congregation for giving the Purcell Scholarship to the Word of Life Bible School in Bangladesh last year. Dr. Eagleton celebrated how a young man, from a Christian home but not living as a Christian, attended the school at his dad’s persuasion. After two months, the young man “got addicted to the Bible” (his words). He is now headed to nursing school, but he was also going to make disciples.

The Mary Ruth Wisehart Scholarships were awarded to Bailey AnnMarie Guzman, (Randall University), Hannah Boyd, (Southeastern FWB College), Sarah Lovett, (Welch College).

The Miley Scholarship is awarded each year to an international student enrolled in one of our FWB Colleges. This year’s recipient is Kory Escola. Kory will be a freshman at Welch College. She comes to the US from the ministry of Jungle Kids for Christ in Ecuador, a partner organization of IM, Inc.

Shine

Deirdre Vickers, the Shine coordinator for the Kansas event, celebrated the wonderful things that happened at the Shine conference in Wichita. This conference encouraged students, workers, and moms. Each lady had the opportunity to hear biblical teachings from speakers and experience God-centered worship.

Flourish

Flourish celebrated its first, in-person, one-day event in Huntington, West Virginia. Over 10 states, 115

women, and even a few men participated. Participants experienced a full day of speakers, panel discussion, food, fun, and fellowship. Keynote speakers Alicia Crowe, Jody Sullivan, and Judy Delong shared stories of brokenness, loss, and grief and how God redeemed each one.

The Giving Tree campaign was a tremendous success in 2022. This monthly giving campaign surpassed the goal of $35,000 by $10,000. Attendees were encouraged to continue their pledges and or join the campaign in 2023.

The theme for the 2024 Treasure Bible Study guide will be Reflection There will be 12 stand-alone studies about reflecting

A bit of a buzz swarmed the booth in the exhibit hall this year. Ruth announced the start of a new podcast and followers received a campfire mug as long as supplies lasted. The “As You Go” podcasts will focus on being and making disciples, as you go.

Celebration Service

The highlight of the celebration service culminated with a devotion from Melanie Franks, North America Missions missionary to Athens, Alabama, at Cultivate FWB. Melanie said, “I could spend all day talking to you about how our team has attempted to reach our Jerusalem, share our faith in Christ, and disciple our multicultural family at Cultivate. What the Lord is doing in Athens is very exciting, but it’s also a daunting task.”

In II Kings 5, we find the familiar story of Naaman, commander of the Syrian army, who suffered from a skin disease. When reading this passage, we often focus on Naaman and what he had to do to receive healing. We may even focus on Elisha, the bearer of the prescribed course of healing. Most of the time, we skip over the young servant girl who was bold enough to speak up to tell her master how he might find healing. Although young and placed in a challenging situation, this girl found herself used in God’s story for His glory.

Scripture doesn’t tell us much about this girl. The Hebrew word for a young girl in II Kings 5:2 is “Naarah,” meaning a girl between infancy and adolescence. Her family was probably among the remnant left in Israel who had not given into the worship of Baal (1 Kings 19:18). Undoubtedly, from early in life, she was taught about God and those He used to complete His work. She knew about God’s prophet, Elisha, and the miracles he had done in God’s name. Her parents had instilled in her a strong foundation of faith in God that I’m sure none of them realized would be tested so soon.

When the passage of 2 Kings 5 starts, the Syrian army had been raiding the land of Israel, and among the items they took, was this young girl—a girl so seemingly insignificant she isn’t even named. After being taken from her family and homeland, she was forced into slavery in Naaman’s house, where she served as a handmaid to the commander’s wife. Even though Scripture doesn’t give us much information about the girl, we can surmise a few things about her from these verses.

Relationships

First, she built a relationship with those around her. Although this wouldn’t have been your normal relationship because she was a slave, the girl still did what she could to foster relationships. When the problem arose with Naaman’s skin disease, she felt confident she could tell her mistress about Elisha. She knew the man of God could help if it was the

Lord’s will, but without a relationship, she couldn’t explain it to her mistress.

Faithfulness

We also see she was faithful despite her circumstances. This girl was in a challenging situation in a foreign land. She was probably scared and missing her family, yet she didn’t allow these feelings to consume her. Because she faithfully served, this unnamed servant girl was trusted and had the ear of an army commander, the commander’s wife, and the kings of Syria and Israel.

Love

Next, this young girl loved her enemies and was open to making peace with the ones who had taken her. She could have begrudgingly gone about her duties, but rather than allowing hate to build up, she chose to love. The Bible defines love as a concern for others leading to action. This is the kind of love God shows us. Her love was manifested in her concern for Naaman.

Peaceful

We must follow the servant girl’s example and make peace with those around us. She had every reason to be hostile to those who had taken her captive, yet she chose to love, forgive, and pursue peace.

Bold

Lastly, like the servant girl, we must be bold in our witness. Even though she faithfully served and spent time building relationships with her superiors, she was still a slave. This meant she was to carry out her duties quietly and obediently. She wasn’t supposed to be noticed or heard. Yet, this young handmaid boldly spoke to her mistress out of concern for Naaman’s health. This young slave had every reason to fulfill her duties silently. She could have let bitterness consume her. Instead, she allowed God to use her in a mighty way. We have an advantage she did not have. Acts 1:8 tells us we will receive power from the presence of the Holy Spirit. He empowers us to be His witness. We can witness through the power of

God. We could go about our daily lives silently, filled with bitterness over how the world treats us, but we must instead choose to obediently share our story of Christ’s love with the world.

Because this handmaid was faithful, loving, and bold in her actions, Naaman was healed of his skin disease and came to know about the one true God. In verse fifteen, he declared, “I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel.” Her witness was not limited to Naaman and his wife. She impacted the kings of Syria and Israel, Naaman’s army, and readers of the Bible today. God had a plan of redemption for this girl’s life, and she was willing to allow God to use her for His glory.

Even though I wasn’t forced from my homeland and family or plunged into slavery, I can identify with this story in several ways. In 2017, after serving at the same church for almost eighteen years, my husband and I knew God was calling us to leave and plant a church in Alabama. This was not where we wanted to go, but it was where God said to go.

As we moved to Athens, Alabama, and began the journey of starting a Free Will Baptist church, I had to be like this servant girl and begin building new re-

lationships. I didn’t know anyone in this new town. Our family began going to community events to meet people. When I went to the grocery store or Walmart, I had to get out of my comfort zone and find ways to chat with the people I met. Joann (my church planting teammate) and I joined a gym and began taking group classes, which took me way beyond my comfort zone! This was not only good for us physically, but it allowed us to make connections with women in the community.

As we began building these relationships, we would ask our new friends to our houses for meals and Bible studies. Of course, not everyone we’ve met has visited the church, but God has blessed our efforts. Building relationships is key to building a church. If the young servant girl had not made a relationship with those around her, she would not have been able to tell Naaman about the One who could heal him physically and spiritually. The same goes for us.

Like the servant girl, we must remain faithful even during difficult times. Planting a new church is difficult. Planting a new church and having unexpected health issues arise is even more challenging. Planting a new church while having unforeseen health issues

during a worldwide pandemic is nearly impossible. But even when times are hard, we must remain faithful to God’s call. In Matthew 28:19-20, He called each of us to go and make disciples. These verses don’t say to go and make disciples if it’s easy and convenient. He just said to do it, and we can because He promised He would always be with us.

Fortunately, we have not been met with much opposition in our new community until recently. God has blessed our church to be able to purchase the local movie theater, and we are in the beginning stages of renovating it for our forever church home. While we have not been physically attacked on the streets, the social media attacks have been strong. Many community members are unhappy the local theater and drive-in is being converted into a church.

So, what are we going to do about it? Fight back? Throw up our hands and quit? No! Instead, we are going to choose to pursue peace and show love. We will use that drive-in to show family-friendly movies to the community. We will open the doors of this new building for many different events where we can show the community of Athens, Cultivate Church loves them, and so does God. God will bless us when we pursue peace, just like He blessed the servant girl.

As a young girl growing up in Winfield, Alabama, I can assure you I never dreamed God would have me living in Alabama, working with my husband to plant a multicultural church. I vividly remember telling one of my dear teachers in high school I did not need to learn Spanish because I would never use it. She sweetly said I had no idea where God was leading me, and I might need to know the language one day. Now here I am, almost thirty years later, involved in a church plant with a growing Hispanic ministry where I need to use Spanish daily. I remember telling my husband I would go anywhere he thought God was leading him to serve—except back to Alabama. Yet, here I am in Alabama, as happy as I’ve ever been.

Isaiah 55:8-9 tells us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares

the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God knows my life infinitely better than I do. There is incomprehensible joy when I allow Him to use me to accomplish His plan. We don’t read of the servant girl beyond verse three of 2 Kings 5, but I can only imagine her delight when she heard Naaman was healed of his skin disease. Imagine her joy when she heard he had turned to the Lord! We can also experience this joy when we allow God to use our lives for His glory.

*All Scripture is quoted from the ESV. About the Writer: Melanie and Joel Franks are church planters in Athens, Alabama, which is a suburb of Huntsville. Their work is a joint project with North American Ministries and Alabama State Missions. The Franks have two children, Jonathan and Makayla, who are seniors in high school.

APPLICATION

+ What are you doing to build a strong faith in God in your children or grandchildren? In Deuteronomy 6, we are commanded to teach our children. I’m sure the servant girl’s parents were so thankful they had taught her about God, so she was equipped to remain strong in her faith when the hard times came. Are your children prepared for the hard times they will face?

+ If we are going to see our churches grow, we must actively foster relationships with others outside of the church. What are you doing to build relationships with the people in your community?

+ Are you a person of peace like the servant girl? Is there someone that has wronged you that you need to forgive? Maybe you have wronged someone, and you need to seek forgiveness. Ask God to help you be a person of peace.

A t D na

I want to introduce you to my friend, Donna. Around our house and among the children at Cultivate Church, she is known as Aunt Donna. We first met Donna as she was working in the Lowe’s Commercial Customer Service Department. While working on our church buildout, my husband Joel would always go to her cash register and offer her a friendly smile. He learned he could pick at Donna, and she would reciprocate the gesture. Their friendship continues the same way today!

After becoming friends, Joel invited Donna to come to one of our home Bible studies. Donna quickly informed Joel church wasn’t her thing. This didn’t stop Joel from being friends with Donna or inviting her to Bible study. As their friendship grew, he asked Donna why she was so against going to church. Donna shared with him that she had once been actively involved in church but had been severely hurt by people within the church.

Thankfully, after showing love to Donna, she came to our first preview service and has become a vital part of Cultivate Church. I recently sat down to chat with Donna about what made her change her mind about the church and why she finally visited us.

Melanie:

You said you had determined not to return to a church. Why was that?

Melanie:

What changed your mind and made you try Cultivate Church after years of not attending church anywhere?

Melanie:

How has the love in your Cultivate Church family affected you?

Donna:

I was hurt by people at church. I was actively involved. I was giving God and the church my all, but then people within the church turned on me. They mistreated me. They hurt me deeply. There are so many hypocrites within the church that I decided I didn’t need them and didn’t want to be involved.

Donna:

You were real and didn’t put on a façade. I knew that Joel was genuine. He was easy to talk to, and I could tell he cared about me. I felt loved and included when I met the rest of your family.

Donna:

Honestly, the love of my church family has been a complete shocker. I have never experienced genuine love within a church like this before. Sometimes I can’t even accept it and run from it because it scares me! My church family cares for me even when I mess up. I sometimes can’t even comprehend why they would love me like they do.

My family and Cultivate Church are blessed to have Aunt Donna in our lives. I’m thankful Joel was bold and persistent in witnessing to Donna when he visited Lowe’s. I’m also grateful Donna was open to making peace with both God and the past hurts in her life, so she could return to Him.

THIRTY SOMETHINGS

BY SARAH SARGENT

Can you believe it? The leaves outside have changed colors. Saturday plans are now revolving around the favorite college football game. You can’t go into a store without the reminder that Christmas will be here in the blink of an eye. 2023 is approaching its final crescendo, and we will soon be welcoming in the new year. With every new year, we will say goodbye to something old and hello to something new.

I remember back in 2008 when I was flipping through WNAC’s Bible study publication and wondering where I fit in. There was a column for teen girls, but I was out of college. While I loved the Bible studies and reading about the missionaries, I wondered where the column was for young women. I spoke with the director about my interest in seeing something for “twenty-something” women. After prayer and discussion, this “Somethings” column was born. Originally, the column was written to connect with women in their 20s navigating their roles within the church and community. I have enjoyed sharing stories about my life, family, hobbies, and questions about ministry and God’s plans. Several years later, a change was made to the column's name since I was no longer in my 20s.

The “something” time in life can be rather tricky in the church; it can often be the most overlooked group in your church. They are no longer in the youth group and might not be eligible for the newlywed group. Some “somethings” are traversing the career world, and some are called into ministry but must navigate the choppy waters of you look like a kid, so why would we give you authority? Some are single and ready to mingle or brokenhearted or discouraged because God has closed doors they always dreamed would be open. “Somethings” are valuable to the church! If you are outside the ages of 20-39, please make sure the “somethings” women and men in your church know how much you appreciate them.

This, my friends, will be my “Somethings” swan song. Not just because 2024 will officially remove me from this age group but because we will use this space to make room for a few laughs. We are living in a challenging time in our world. We face spiritual warfare at every turn. We want Treasure to be a place where you can dig into God’s Word on relatable topics and be encouraged through stories from missionaries, insights from women’s ministry leaders, and hopefully, enjoy a few laughs. Starting in 2024, I will begin writing a new column that I hope will bring you a smile, a laugh, and a joyful heart reminder that there is fun in serving Jesus. We haven’t narrowed down a name yet; maybe it’ll be something like “Church Chuckles,” “Holy Hilarities,” or “Guilty of the Church Giggles.” Check back in January and see!

About the Colunnist: Sarah Sargent is a third-generation member and leader in FWB Women’s Ministries. She has been active at all levels of the ministry from an early age. She began serving on the WNAC board in 2013 and has been a member of the Shine team since its inception. She is the president of women’s ministry at Reynoldsburg FWB Church and vice president of Ohio FWB Women’s Ministries. She is a proud alumna of The Ohio State University, loves all things Disne, and her Labra-doodles Regal and Lexi, working with children, and being outdoors

Proverbs 17:22a reminds us that “a joyful heart is good medicine.”

BEHIND THE SCENES

The First Free Will Baptist Church of Ardmore, Oklahoma, has existed since the 1950s. Three years ago, the church contacted the Oklahoma State Board and Bob Thomas Ministries. Since then, they have become a church revitalization project under North American Ministries.

Matt, Becky, and their daughter Jovie have been in Ardmore since January. Matt is the lead pastor, and his wife serves on the music team. Matt has been heading up the day-to-day operations since their arrival and takes joy in ministering to the existing congregation there.

Luke and Dalanee Sherman are expecting the arrival of their daughter Eden in mid-to-late October. Luke is the music and worship pastor, and Dalanee oversees the children’s ministry. Luke and Dalanee arrived in Ardmore at the beginning of May this year.

Cody and Tori Matlock were the last couple to arrive in Ardmore in August. Cody and Tori will be helping primarily with the music and youth/family ministries.

The next steps in Ardmore include renovating the children’s and youth ministry areas. The church has already seen a growth on average of nearly 20 people a week. The current children’s area is quickly being outgrown and will need to be enlarged. The driveway will need to be enlarged for the church to host more events. Right now, the single-car driveway is adequate but will need to be expanded to allow for more growth at the church. The church is growing at a fantastic rate, and we ask you to join us in prayer for continued growth. The church has celebrated three baptisms, two rededications, and one salvation in the last month. Please pray for Ardmore residents to continue to have open hearts and for us to be able to continue to reach out and meet the needs in Ardmore.

Just Being Ruthful

BY Ruth McDonald

A few years ago, my missionary girlfriends and I did Priscilla Shirer’s Bible study on Jonah, Navigating a Life Interrupted. The irony is that I never finished the study… because several life events interfered. I came across the workbook as I was packing up to move to the US, and sure enough, I made it through two whole weeks of the study.

An Old Yiddish saying is, “Man plans, and God laughs.” In Proverbs 19:11, we read that “many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand” (ESV). This theme is consistent throughout Scripture. In James 4:13-15 we are advised to temper our plans with “if the LORD wills, we will live and do this or that.”

As for the Yiddish saying… it is true that God’s plans prevail, and ours often fail. The only thing I chafe against is that “God laughs” has always sounded like He takes some mischievous or sadistic pleasure in foiling our plans. When I first heard this saying, I pictured God laughing derisively, as if He was making fun of us. Is this how you read it?

In God’s conversation with Job in Job 38:4-7, He did put him in his place: “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?”

However, I don’t think God laughs mockingly at His people when their plans fail. He understands our disappointments and stands ready to comfort us, no matter how silly or presumptuous our plans might’ve been. I think the point is this:

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9)

God loves us, and His plans are better than ours. Unlike us, He knows what is best. He truly “withholds no good thing from those who love Him.” (Psalm 84:11)

Trust in the Lord, dear sisters. In all your ways, acknowledge Him.

“Ruthful is an archaic English word (the opposite of ruthless) meaning “full of compassion.”

My Kitchen Prayer

Bless my pretty kitchen Lord, And light it with thy love; Help me plan and cook my meals, From thy heavenly home above. Bless our meals with thy presence, And warm them with thy grace; Then watch over me as I do my work, Washing pots and pans and plates. The service I am trying to do, Is to make my family content; So bless my eager efforts Lord, And make them heaven sent.

—Author Unknown

Favorite Devils Food Cake

by Mrs. George E. Ritter

Sift together into bowl:

• 1 ¾ cups sifted cake flour

• 1 ½ cups sugar

• 1 teaspoon double action baking powder

• ½ teaspoon soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

Add:

• ½ cup shortening and 2⁄3 cup milk

Beat vigorously with spoon for 2 minutes by clock (about 150 strokes per minute). Or mix with electric mixer on slow to medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour batter into prepared pans, 2 round layers, 8”. Bake 30 to 35 minutes at 350⁰. Cool and frost with favorite chocolate frosting.

Mock Apple Pie

by Mrs. Damon C. Dodd

MEAL PLAN

• Swiss Steak

• Small Whole Green Beans

• Baked Potatoes

• Tossed Salad

• Danish Rolls

• Favorite Devils Food Cake

• Co ee

Bring to boil :

• 2 cups water

• 1 1⁄2 cups sugar

• 2 1⁄2 teaspoons cream of tartar

Drop in 18-20 whole Ritz crackers and continue to boil gently for 10 minutes. DON’T STIR! Carefully pour into unbaked pie shell. Dot with butter and cinnamon. Bake at 400⁰ until brown. (Serve with scoop of ice cream. Your guests can’t tell it from the genuine!).

About the Author: Mrs.George E. Ritter, Marion, Illinois. Favorite verse, Philippians 4:13.

Excerpt from a cookbook entitled Bible and MiXing BoWl in a woman’s world, published in 1962. The net proceeds from the sale of this book helped to fund the Memorial Student Loan Fund which later became the Dr. Mary R. Wisehart Student Scholarship.

The Co-Editors were Mrs. Roy O’Donnell, Mt. Olive, North Carolina and Mrs. Eunice Edwards, Nashville, Tennessee and was published by Woman’s National Auxiliary Convention. Each page of the book has two recipes, a meal plan, a devotional or poem, and an author’s biography.