Restoring Life Foundation Magazine Issue 5 - Jan 2014

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OUNDATION i e Restoring Lives from Adversity to Destiny ISSUE 5 ESTORING

1st Anniversary

COVER STORY— HERE’S MEETING MEGAN

You Are Dear to My Heart Emergency Scriptures

Spiritual DNA

Family legacy

Family Blessings WHAT IF WORLD

Being remembered preparing for the future

Roller Coaster You can’t have a new year with and old mind.

A Big thank you goes out to all our talented writers, artist and photographers for their valuable contributions to our magazine without which we could not have reached our first milestone.

Honours Roll Karyn Sartor, The 3Dwoman, Helen Azer, Claudia Mondesire, Kathleen McAnear Smith, Jo Cotter, Rev Pearl Dyer, Kandi Stewart, Yolanda Ballard, Sally Sinclair, Rose Provencher, Ilka Dziengel, Phyllis Popovich, Jennifer Clarke, Templateswise, Danabeth555, Jim Ridener, Robin Agnes and David Castillo Dominici .

Issue 1 January 2013

Issue 2 April 2013

Issue 3 July 2013

Issue 4 October 2013

GOD BLESS YOU IN 2014 Every time January rolls around I am always amazed at how quickly another year has flown by. We are one year older, and hopefully one year wiser too.

This edition marks the first anniversary of the Restoring Life Foundation magazine, the success of which we are most grateful to God, but also to our contributors and you our readers. The first year of anything, can be the toughest as you establish yourself in a new groove. For all of us working on the magazine it has been a year with a steep learning curve, but also a year during which God has grown not only the numbers of those who flick through our pages, but also those who contribute their time and wisdom to inspire, encourage and coach you on your journey with God. We pray that as you journey with us through 2014 that we will continue to provide you with valuable resources to help keep you focussed on the eternal, whilst you are healed and restored spirit, soul and body.

This edition has a feature on lasting legacies and is aptly themed in view of the passing of Nelson Mandela, a man who through his determination to even lay down his life for the freedom of his people carried out his tasks assigned to him by the one who sent and called him. We pray that as you consider the psalmist words found in Psalm 144:4 ‘Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow’ That you will be careful how you walk, not as unwise women but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil Ephesians 5:15-16. Let me encourage you to be like Mandela determined to quickly carry out the tasks assigned to you by the one who sent us. For the night is coming, and then no one can work. (John 9:4).

Until next time God Bless you.

COPYRIGHT © RESTORING LIFE FOUNDATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Copyright of articles and photographs in Restoring Life Foundation Magazine remain with the original contributors, No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the copyright owner. Applications should be made directly to www.restoringlifefoundation.org

CONTENTS RESTORING LIFE FOUNDATION Magazine CONTRIBUTORS

Yolanda Ballard Jennifer Clarke Ann Lane Jo Cotter Bill Hardaway The RLF Team Cover story Photography Jess Bandy/ Alabaster Jar photography

Photograph South Africa The Good News / www.sagoodnews.co.za

ISSUE 5 6.

Shake off your past - step into your future

8.

Spiritual DNA

10.

Family Blessings

12.

Cover Story - Here’s meeting Megan

22.

What IF World

28.

Family Legacy

32.

Being remembered - preparing for the future

34.

Roller Coaster

40.

You Are Dear to My Heart

42.

Emergency Scriptures

44.

“You can’t have a new year with and old mind”.

During my lifetime I have dedicated my life to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons will live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal for which I hope to live for and to see realised. But, My Lord, if it needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.

Nelson Mandela 18/7/1918– 5/12/2013

SHAKE OFF YOUR

A prophetic word by Yolanda Ballard Most assuredly I say to you that whatever you have been through in the last few months has been orchestrated personally by Me to rescue you from further devastation from the enemy. Even though what you have already been through has not been pleasant, it has been used to prepare you for what is ahead. For if you haven't gone through the preparation, you would not be able to bear the impact of what is ahead.

Your body, mind, and spirit could not contain the pressure that is coming. The impact of it would totally blow you away without having gone through any preparation for it. So I tell you today to thank Me for the trials and testing, and even the tribulation for it has all been for your good!

This is the day when many have gone their own way without seeking My face, participating in the gathering of the saints, or even have they been exposed to My word in any way. Without the Vine, surely you will perish. You cannot escape what is ahead by choosing not to hear about it. For being in a strong body of believers you are being joined together with the power, strength, and love that you need. Also you are receiving the wisdom as how to walk boldly in the face of the evil one.

You must be bold and unwavering in our faith, no matter what the circumstances. If I am for you, who or what can come against you and destroy you, for all things work together for the good of those who are called according to My plan and purpose. So I want you to wake up to the deception of the enemy saying that you can make it on your own. Die out to the offenses you have faced and shake them off, and let My love cover over the multitude of sin. Come close to Me, and open your heart, and let Me heal your woundedness.

Let out a victory shout that we reign victorious and that we will love not our lives unto death. We will march forward taking the land behind our shield of faith. We will no longer be hit by the fiery flames of the evil one caused to destroy our faith. We will stay covered with the armour of Light, and the glory of the Lord will blind the evil one. We will overcome because surely we are over comers, and the promises to us are "yes" and "Amen"!.

So rejoice, this is a new day. All things have passed away, and all things have become new. If you start this day with a repentant heart, washed with My blood, and ready to walk in my way, truth, and light!

H

ow blessed is the person, who does not take the advice of the wicked, who does not stand on

the path with sinners, and who does not sit in the seat of mockers.

B

ut they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted

along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season.

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heir leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Psalm 1:1 –3

I

’ve always had a positive, open and respectful relationship with my parents and believed when younger that this was the case for all families, however as I’ve grown, I’ve come to realise that this, unfortunately is not the case for all children. Some parents abuse their children due to the stresses of life, learnt behaviour, and drug addiction; and as a result these children are left broken, searching for commitment, friendships and love sometimes in destructive relationships.

In my work with children this reality has unfortunately become a normal template in which I have to work with, as I try to break through the pain, suffering and misguided ‘thought patterns’ of the children I come into contact with. So often as I speak with the young people a picture emerges as I am informed that their parents are only doing what their parents had done to them. Violent abusive behaviour, bitter, soul destroying words spoken in frustration, anger, resentment by mothers and fathers to their children which would leave them broken. Words that their children will hold onto and which would later have a destructive force in their own lives, thus confirming the ‘Word’ which tells us that there is power in our words, (Proverbs 18:21).

What a difference my childhood memories of a mother kneeling by her bed

praying daily for her children and family, or sitting at the table reading her bible or in fact her weekly trips to church and bible studies, have on me.

Although my father did not accompany my mother to church I also have memories of him rising early in order to partake in his daily prayers. I recall my mother always having Jesus on her lips with statements such as ‘God will provide’, or if its ‘God ‘s Will’. It is no wonder that I now hear myself uttering those same words to my family and friends.

My mother had sown a seed in my spirit that would take root and flourish in my life, a seed that I would grow to cherish and depend on, a seed that would give me strength and hope. I never thought that I would hear myself uttering the same words my mother spoke when as a child I would ask for something and she would reply, pray about it, if it’s God’s will you will get it. Frustrated,

I would resign myself to not getting it, after all what had God got to do with me getting my black shiny sandals, ‘plastics’ as I remember them being called. My mother was either going to get them for me or not, I remember when I was presented with a box and opened them to see my black plastics, they were the most lovely patent leather sandals I’d ever seen and I loved them.

I remember thinking how God had provided, although not really understanding, how. It was years later that I understood my mothers’ words and what she actually meant to trust in her heavenly Father to provide her needs, and that as an adult I too would pick up the gauntlet that my mother carried, and run the race that she had begun.

However, if a child has not been filled with God’s love, kindness and praise it leaves them searching for something to fill the void. The enemy will be quick to offer things like drugs, promiscuity, witchcraft and gangs, none of which will satisfy the heart’s longing, but all of which lead to a downhill spiral and can lead to the child’s downfall.

The connection between parent and child is a fundamental relationship which starts in the womb and contin-

ues throughout life. As parents we have the responsibility to do our best for our children (Proverbs 22:6), because bad seeds will produce a bad tree from which we can expect the production of bad fruit (Matthew 7:18). We may be the product of our parents but we also have a parent in Jesus Christ (Romans 8:14), who is untainted and filled with love and who will if we ask him help us to overcome the barriers instilled in us. The Word tells us to ‘Honour your father and mother, that your days may be long upon the land that the Lord your God is giving you’ (Exodus 20:12). I realise that sometimes it’s hard to honour this commandment when our parents fall below what we have come to know as acceptable, but if like my parents we take the time to fall on our knees and look up, we too can rise. However,

A restored life

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I caught up with Megan Roberts at Ellel Ministries, just nine days before she left to spend the Christmas with her sister in the USA before the long flight home to Australia. Megan a trained nutritionist first came to Pierrepont to attend a six month ministry training school in 2010 but felt led by the Lord to stay on and work as part of the team. When I met her she had recently finished her time as the P.A. to the centre director and was about to embark on a new season with God back home in Australia.

What was your life like before you came here?

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o put it in one sentence, I think I would say I was going through the motions. I had graduated and I was in the middle of working in a hospital, and nothing was really wrong, but I felt a bit restless. It’s not that you would look at my life and think you know this was wrong or that was wrong but I definitely had a sense that there was more than I was experiencing. I was going to church on the weekends, playing netball, spending time with friends, life was pretty good. Doing all the things that you do, but it felt like I needed a bit more of something.

I wasn’t really involved in church and that was because I had gone through depression. It probably started when I was in high school then going through university. I was struggling quite a bit with that, I think I pulled back from church in that time, and as I came out the other side of that God brought me a level of freedom.

My relationship with Him was restored a bit, but I think I didn’t get completely free, and completely restored from it so I was able to get back enjoying normal things. It wasn’t what it was supposed to be and I knew that so if you would look on the surface of my life everything looked really good but there wasn’t, what Jesus said we are supposed to have abundant life.

“if I would make room for something more, then God will bring it along, but He is not going to bring it along until I take that step”

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o I wasn’t living the abundant life but I wasn't quite sure what I’m missing.

I had this fleeting thought that ‘if I would make room for something more, then God will bring it along’, but He is not going to bring it along until I take that step. I didn’t really have the faith at the time to quit my job and leave this big empty space, for no reason. But I really wanted to travel and I couldn’t take a couple, two or three months off of work in one go, so I actually resigned from my job with the idea to travel.

I ended up at Ellel Sydney just after I resigned; having a healing retreat and thought to myself I should see if there are any courses at Ellel in England when I get there. I looked at the dates and realised NETs was starting, a month or two after I arrived. It all just snowballed after that, I read about the program again and it all just sounded like the kind of thing I wanted to do.

God put the desire in my heart to do something different one step at a time. First he put the desire to travel then, by the time I left home I was planning to come to do the NETs discipleship training school.

Photography by Jess Bandy

When did you actually start NETs? I started Nets in October 2010. I thought I was coming for six months. I did the first two stages, and then I joined the team after that.

Was your first job as Jill’s PA? No! When I first joined team I was working as part of the NETs admin team so I was kind of communicating with all the people that were applying and preparing to come to NETs. Which was a really good job actually, really fun because by the time people came you really knew them as you walked with them a bit. Then I did a little bit of NETs marketing as well for a short stint. Then I became Jill’s P.A after a year.

What was it like working for Jill?

Working with Jill was a privilege. I think to have the opportunity to serve someone. I don’t think I realised before doing that role for that period of time, how much of a blessing it is serve. I have loved being able to support her in different ways. It’s very varied role and I think I’ve learnt so much from her, you can hear someone speak the teaching from the front and God uses it to change something in you and gives you revelation that changes how you live your life, but when you see someone demonstrating the teaching and just living it out, it hits you in a whole new way. I think seeing someone up close taking steps of faith that you are really not in a place to take yet, but just bigger ones. You get such a perspective of how big and wonderful God is, because she has walked that much further. I really loved seeing some of the ways God came through, the amazing things He did. We have had a lot of fun as well.

Whilst you have been here you have been focussed on the spiritual aspects, but as a nutritionist the focus is more on the body. How are you going to merge what God has taught you in this new season?

It’s an interesting question because originally I was thinking that I will go back to Melbourne, and I will take up my career as a dietician, and I feel that God has said to lay down plans, so at the moment I am very much holding that on open hands so it’s not that he has said don’t go back to that. Just he said don’t make any plans, so I don’t know if I will be stepping back into that the same format or not. But I guess I thought a lot about it in preparing to go home. In the last sort of year of my work in a hospital you see how much the medical profession; diet and nutrition can do so much to manage disease. But they can’t really do anything better that manages. They can only do so much to manage disease, I spent a lot of time advising someone, this is how you should be eating and at times they are able to just take your advice and put into practice and you see the benefit of that change but often you’re explaining to people this is what you need to be doing and they understand that, then they can’t really put it into practice. So what I would love to see kind of merge ,I’m not sure exactly how that would work in practice, but it is to put together everything that I have learnt about understanding what is going on behind peoples behaviours. You know how God could come into a root of why you are behaving the way that you are and actually bring change there. Then people are released to really make changes that they really want to make. I would love to see that go together.

Moving forward is there one thing that you will take into your future career?

One thing that’s really hard. I think out of all the time I spent with Jill what kind of really stands out is I went a few different places with her and of course working at Pierrepont you see a lot of different people. Pierrepont is very multicultural so you are getting people from all nations, all backgrounds and all ages, you know everyone is so unique, and everyone’s situation is unique. But people are struggling with such similar things, that is really holding them back in their walk with God and no matter where they’re at the truth is the same. It’s one gospel, one Jesus. I feel like I can go into any situation in life, it doesn’t matter if you are at work or home with friends, no matter what you come across its one answer, one gospel one truth. I’ve seen that, you know in your head and heard that that’s the answer, but when you’ve seen it in practice changing people in so many different ways.

That’s probably the biggest thing that I will take with me, knowing that’s the truth that’s what everyone needs.

What will you miss about the UK? So much, I feel like this is my second home now. Probably the people are the thing that I will miss the most because, I have built such amazing friendships and the leadership that I have been working under and walking under just the cover. I will also miss the snow.

Would you say you have more of that abundance that was missing before?

I think I’m connected to God right in my spirit I think before I knew a lot about God, but now I have a relationship with him more of a spirit to spirit connection which is where you feed your life from. God has brought me on a real journey of giving thanks. One of the goals that I set for the beginning of the year was to be in the moment and not to be thinking and like living in tomorrow and to be here. He answered that prayer in an unexpected way. Since he taught me to give thanks in everything that actually brings life into everything. In this last six months he has brought so much life into me just through that.

Is their one woman from history that has inspired you?

What I really look up to and admire in women is when people are ordinary and allow themselves to be used by God. The one person that would kind of come to mind when I think about it for that very reason, is Esther. I just love the story of Esther in the bible, there are many other people that I have seen and admire but most people wouldn’t know them, but with Esther its just because she was going about her normal life being faithful to God in the situation she was in, and God used her for the most amazing things. It was not because she planned it or expected it. I love looking at anyone who is being themselves, who God called them to be, and allowing him to do what he wants to do in the situation.

How would you sum yourself up?

I guess I would say there is more. It’s not so much about me, and summing up, who I am because that is not what people need. People want to know that there is more in God. When you have that feeling that you are not quite satisfied with what you’ve got it’s to have that feeling and try to make the most of where you are. I think God gives you the desire for more – because there is. I feel that is at the centre of my life that there is more in God, to want that more and go after it is quite core to who I am, and what he has used to get me to where I am and will carry me forward..

What is your favourite scripture ?

The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. I will build you up again, and you, Virgin Israel, will be rebuilt. Again you will take up your tumbrels' and go out to dance with the joyful.

Again you will plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria; the farmers will plant them and enjoy their fruit. Jeremiah 31:3-5

The full interview will be broadcast on Eve Radio online at sometime in 2014 a link will be posted on the Restoring Life Foundation website once it’s released.

By Cheryl Ridener

We don’t live in a ‘what if world’

I have a friend who whenever I start a sentence with ‘what if’ he will always say we don’t live in a ‘what if world’, this is usually because my ‘what if’s’ were usually associated with a doubt or a worry; his response had the effect of snapping me back into thinking more positively about my life and situation.

Whilst thinking about worry and the way it can cripple us, by making us afraid in the city, and afraid in the country I am reminded of a story I once heard of a person who had become so afraid that something bad would happen to him that he had decided never to leave his house again. The dreaded ‘What if ‘ had literally paralysed him into making his home into a prison.

Unfortunately for him, being at home did not save him from the falling aeroplane debris which landed on the top of his house; forcing him to evacuate it quick, fast and in a hurry. This fear hadn’t protected him, but rather made him an sitting duck; as Job 3:25 (NLT) says ‘What I always feared has happened to me. What I dreaded has come true’ this became this man’s testimony too.

So what should we do with our ‘what if’s ‘ to ensure they are disempowered?

As you enter into an untried year, it can seem scary to those whose hope is not secured in the Lord Jesus Christ. If you are in need of some extra comfort for the days ahead here are some questions and scriptures to lean on when fear or worry come knocking at your door in 2014.

Remember Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. (Proverbs 12:25 ESV) Is my fear in anyway triggered by my own laziness, unwillingness to do what is necessary in the situation?

Be strong and courageous. Don't fear or tremble before them, because the LORD your God will be the one who keeps on walking with you—he won't leave you or abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:6 (ISV)

Dealing with some of the ‘What if’s’ What if I lose my Where do you get your direc- job? tion?

The Lord says ‘Look, God is my deliverer!

The Lord is among those "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day who support me.’ Psalm 54:4 and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then but remember that the LORD your God gives you the power to gain wealth, you will make your way prosperous, and in order to confirm His covenant He then you will have success. Joshua 1:8 swore to your fathers, as it is today. Deuter(NASB) onomy 8:18 (Holman)

What am I turning to as a refuge?

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

Proverbs 18:10 (ESV)

What is my hope in?

Rest in God alone, my soul, for my hope comes from Him. Psalm 62:5 (Holman)

What if I fail or make a mistake? – the Lord says ‘Although a righteous person may fall seven times, he gets up again, but the wicked will be brought down by calamity.’ Proverbs 24:16

What if I am sick?

The LORD sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health.

Psalm 41:3 (ESV)

What if I die?

The wicked is overthrown through his wrongdoing and calamity, but the [consistently] righteous has hope and confidence even in death. Proverbs 14:32(AMP) For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (NIV)

What if my future is uncertain?

Psalm 113:9 (NLT)

What if I’m lonely?

For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 2:6 (NASB)

For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget For I know the plans I have for you," says the the covenant with your ancestors, which he LORD. "They are plans for good and not for confirmed to them by oath. Deuteronomy 4:31 (NIV) disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but What if I look stupid or it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand. ignorant?

Proverbs 19:21 (ESV)

God places the lonely in families; he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. But he makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. Psalm 68:6 (NLT)

Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him. James 1:5 (Holman)

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about to- What if I make the wrong morrow--not even the powers of hell can decision? separate us from God's love. neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, Commit your actions to the LORD, and your will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3 (NLT) Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do 8:38-39 (NIV) not depend on your own understanding. Seek He gives the childless woman a family, mak- his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 ing her a happy mother. Praise the LORD!

What if I get rejected?

It is not you who chose me, but it is I who chose you and appointed you that you might go and be fruitful and that your fruit might remain; so that whatever petition you present to the Father in my name He may give you. John 15:16 (WEY) For you are a holy people, who belong to the LORD your God. Of all the people on earth, the LORD your God has chosen you to be his own special treasure. Deuteronomy 7:6 (NLT)

What if I get into conflict?

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 (NLT) “If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother.“But if he does not listen to

you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED.“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.“Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven. “Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven.“For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.”Matthew 18:15-20 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, "I will take revenge; I will pay them back," says the LORD. Romans 12:19 (NLT)

What if God decides to bless you with the desires of your heart?

What if you commit to take each challenge you face to God and operate with the mind of Christ? What then?

2014 is sure to have it’s share of challenges as well as its share of joy, what if you expect the very best of it?

Family legacy

By Ann Lane

was privy to a conversation had not known of their father’s death recently about an elderly because they had failed to visit him in man who had lain dead for nearly a year and had given up attempthalf a year in his house being to contact him after they had tried fore he was disseveral times the year becovered, which sadfore without any sucdened and distressed cess. I must ask my‘But if a widow has me. This man had beself here who failed children or grandchilcome estranged from whom, did the father dren, let them first his family following a fail his adult children disagreement some in not bequeathing learn to show godliyears before. The them a pot of money or ness to their own greatest shame exdid these adult chilhousehold and to claimed one of his famdren fail their father in ily members was that not caring for their sick make some return to he lived and died and their parents, for this and elderly? left nothing but debt. is pleasing in the ome culsight of God’. tures are This shocked me for geared up several reasons, because to caring for the speaker himself had five children parents as they age whilst and his sister had four, were they all not others are not, however as Christians part of their father’s legacy that he left our guidance clearly puts the onus on behind? But that was not truly the big- parents whilst children are young but gest shock of all, he himself a professed on children as their parents age. 1 Christian an church elder no less and Timothy 5:4 (ESV) says ‘But if a widow his sister a pastor married to a pastor has children or grandchildren, let them

I

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first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God’.

accountable for my flock’.

I will remove them from tending the flock so that the shepherds can no longer feed themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths, Beyond that Christians are called to and it will no longer be food for care for the elderly in the commuthem.” nity where no family exist to provide for them. Isaiah 1:17 ESV Gods direction about the elderly makes it clear with ‘learn to do “You shall stand up before the gray head and honour good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:32 plead the widow's cause.’

Acts 20:28 ESV ‘Pay careful attenListen to your father, who gave you life, and do not tion to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has despise your mother when she is old. Proverbs 23:22 made you overseers, to care for the Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is obtained by followchurch of God, which he obtained ing a righteous path. Proverbs 16:31 with his own blood.’

Never speak harshly to an older man, but appeal to him respectfully as you would to your own father. Talk to uch is the concern that God has younger men as you would to your own brothers. 1 Timothy 5:1 for the vulnerable, whether they be young or old that He promises to In the west we live in an environstand in the gap (Psalm 146:7): He ment with an aging population, we did this by first anointing Jesus to cannot hope that our children will set oppressed free (Isaiah 61:1, provide any more care for us as we Luke 4:18), then by reminding the age than we have shown by examshepherds who abuse the vulnerple, to provide for our own parents. able, that He will not be silent over By God’s grace I pray that I am mistreatment. Ezekiel 34:2-10 leaving a legacy of care and concern says “... Woe to you shepherds of Is- for the next generation. rael who only take care of yourselves! Should not shepherds take If you feel the need to repent for care of the flock? ... This is what the failing to take proper care of your Sovereign LORD says ‘I am against elderly relatives why not say the the shepherds and will hold them following prayer.

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Dear heavenly Father, We are sorry for the times we have failed to show respect to the elderly as in accord with your word. Please help us to value all people, and work to oppose injustice and to release the oppressed of all generations thus showing your love and grace.

In Jesus name amen

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BEING REMEMBERED PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE I watched a movie recently where a man was able to attend his own funeral, during which he could hear the words spoken about him, the attitudes of friends and colleagues and read the words on his tombstone. In his moment at his funeral he had many regrets the biggest of which was that although he had done a dodgy deal with his work colleague in an attempt to secure his future financial freedom, his partner had double-crossed him and killed him to keep both shares of the loot. The very act of attempting to secure his future had given opportunity for his future to be snatched away from him, leaving a young wife vulnerable and alone. As I mulled over this mans experience I thought about the legacy I hoped to leave behind for my loved ones and was reminded of some of the legacy statements recorded in scripture particularly those found in the (Hebrews 11) faith chapter.

Abel Adam’s son He brought God a better offering than Cain did.

He was commended as

Noah Ark-builder In holy fear built an ark to save his family.

He condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness .

Sarah Abraham’s Wife

Rahab the Prostitute

Was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children.

Welcomed the spies.

Was not killed with those who were disobedient.

She considered him faithful who had made the promise.

As Mother Teresa was once quoted as saying “I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world.” What is God wanting to write about you?

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. . . . they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”

-REVELATION 14:13 (NIV)

"Something really bad is going to happen."

Back in 2011 my husband recorded a prophetic word in his journal - he didn't share it with me, nor with anyone else until after it had materialised. That prophetic word was He didn't seek prayer guidance, or intercede that the 'really bad thing' might be lessened. He recorded it, thinking that it had something to do with the world at large, and waited to see if the word would come to pass.

Well, within a very short time, maybe only a couple of weeks, the 'really bad thing' did happen - to us.

A young person we had taken into our home, who had since moved out and moved on to drug addiction, wiped us out of our entire life's savings. Although that was not the worst thing that has ever happened in our lifetime together, it did pack a punch. Tens of thousands of dollars were gone - much of which was a direct blessing from God. If we shared the story of how God blessed us financially, it would be easy to see His

fingerprints all over it.

We looked for answers, but found none. We sought justice, but received none.

There were consequently so many struggles to deal with - not the least of which was how we would meet our financial obligations with every single dollar we had now gone. We understood that for this to have happened, God had to remove His hedge of protection from us. We began to ask ourselves ‘had we done something wrong?’ Not given enough of our money away? Not heeded His voice in some way that we could not identify? Numbness and confusion and even perhaps disorientation became the new norm.

We looked for answers, but found none. We sought justice, but received none. We prayed for restoration - and while we are no longer dollar-less, we aren't where we were prior to the 'really bad thing.'

Then another emotion - when Terry finally showed me his journal and confessed that he thought the word he had received was 'for the world' - and if he had known it was for us, he would have responded to it very differently. It was difficult not to be angry - not to place some measure of blame at his door. In the end, though, God is God, and the money is/was His after all, and the only way I could find to move forward was to just give the whole thing over to Him. If He chose/ chooses to restore, praise God. If He chooses to move in ways we do not understand, well, praise God.

We learned an incredible lesson

roller coaster."

For folks who like roller coasters (I'm not one!), we don't think that word means that next year will be a thrilling, exhilarating ride. Rather, that we may see serious dips and spikes especially in the realm of the economy. We don't see it as a very welcome, encouraging word, but one of warning and preparation.

The first thing we did is pray for the impact of that roller coaster ride to be lessened

So the first thing we did is pray for the impact of that roller coaster ride to be We learned an incredible lesson from lessened, if that is possible. We set that experience, and that is to look at ourselves to function in God's econother people's burdens as if they are omy, and not the world's. And we set our very own. To take every Word we out to find Scripture to steady us in advance of the possibility that next think God is telling us and pray year becomes financially volatile. through it as though it was OUR future, OUR struggle, OUR really bad Among those Scriptures Proverbs 3:6 thing. And I take that lesson with me "in all your ways submit to him, and now onto the Word Terry feels he re- he will make your paths ceived regarding 2014, and that word straight." (Looking for a smoother is "2014 is going to be the year of the path rather than dips and spikes).

And I guess one other important thing that has been reinforced. After our financial loss in 2011 I started paying into a budget plan for home heating oil. Winters can get pretty cold in New England and the price of home heating oil continues to go up. It now costs well over $1500 for one full tank of home heating oil - and it takes more than 1 tank full to get thru the winter. I believed that what I was doing was perfectly Scriptural and wise. I took my direction from Proverbs 6.

Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones.

Learn from their ways and become wise!

Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter.

But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep?

When will you wake up?

A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.

I likened it to the story of the five wise virgins of Matthew 25 - I was preparing and had managed to prepay enough to get us through this winter into next. And then the news that our oil company closed its doors and is filing for bankruptcy. (At least the ants in the Bible don't have to worry about that, right ). And all the heating oil I had prepaid that was readied for winter goes into bankruptcy with them.

From this I take away the lesson that sometimes being prepared, sometimes doing what seems smart and right and wise, even from a Biblical view point, isn't enough. The place

to be - physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, economically, mentally - is the place God has anointed for that particular time/event. What works today may not be where God moves tomorrow. So, in addition to prayer and preparation, we're seeking for 2014, whatever it may bring, to be right where God is in our set of circumstances. To find His anointed 'place' for us - which may be entirely different than His anointed instructions for someone else.

If we're wrong about 2014 - and let's hope we are - we can still carry forward the lessons learned to support us in whatever the future brings.

R E F L E C Have you received a word from the Lord that you are T yet to pray through for revelation?

I O N What pearls of wisdom have you learned that you can carry forward into 2014?

What are you doing to ensure you are at the centre of Gods will for your life in 2014?

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Spiritual DNA

By Ann Lane gospel explosion. Which should When I look at my children it's hard give us also an impetus to take up not to miss my strengths and weak- the command to disciple the nations. nesses being played out in their lives before me. What has been In the same way my physical DNA even more interesting is to watch can be seen in my children and minministry trainees begin to take on my approach in ministry. Whilst my istry DNA can be seen in my trainees our spiritual DNA which encomdesire is always to see them allow passes all that we are should be : God to develop their own unique style, I have become conscious that that of Christ, His life, His Way, His the yeast in me will affect the flour truth should be evident in all we do. in those around me.

This is the discipleship model that Jesus left behind and it is the picture of the Kingdom given in Luke 13.

After they found out that Peter and John had no education or special training, they were surprised to see how boldly they spoke. They realized that these men had been with Jesus.

(Acts 4:13 GWT) Jesus successfully injected His spiritual DNA into His disciples , this is evident from the first century

The question I want to ask you is ‘which Kingdom does your life express?’

You Are Dear to My Heart

By Bill Hardaway

My Beloved Daughter Being spiritual is not a competition you are in with others. I look at the heart and while it may be true that you do not always look the part or fit in with others, I know that your heart cries out to Me. Do not judge yourself by how well others are doing. Some people just have the natural ability to do and to say the right thing, but I know that some of their hearts are far from Me. I just wanted to write you a note today and tell you that I love you, and I know how hard you have been trying to seek Me. Just because it may seem to be that everyone else is more spiritual than you, it does not necessarily make it so. I know the truth about you, and you are dear to My heart. Don’t give up; keep moving forward, I am waiting for you with open arms.

Your Father

EMERGENCY SCRIPTURES

Life is full of up's and downs, having the right resources to help you get through the challenges that arise is key to successfully navigating through life. We’ve hand picked some scriptures you can draw on when trials come your way.

We hope that they bless, and comfort you as you continue to rise into the greatness God has ordained for your life.

When in Sorrow....................................................Isaiah 53:4 When you have sinned.................. Matthew 5:29, Psalm 51 When you are worried.....................................Psalm 145:20 When you are in danger..........................................Psalm 91 When your faith needs stirring..........................Hebrews 11 When you feel down and out...........................Psalm 145:14 When you want peace.......... Psalm 29:11, 34:14, 119:165 If you have financial problems..................Philippians 4:19, Deuteronomy 8:18 When you want rest.......................................... Isaiah 40:29 When it all seems too much............Psalm 105:4,Mark 9:23 When you are feeling lonely............ Psalm 68:6,James 4:8 When you need a friend... Proverbs 18:24, Matthew 28:20 When you doubt...................... John 20:27, 2 Timothy 2:13 If you feel down or depressed................................Psalm 27

I

recently spoke on Restoration during the last day of a healing retreat. This teaching is designed to inspire hope in Gods ability to even raise the dead in any situation. One lady I was ministering to was struggling with massive challenges; and reluctantly attended the teaching at the behest of her carer. Although her carer left inspired, it seemed that nothing could removed the prison which she had created through her responses to life’s difficulties. Whilst she left early unable to deal with looking at her pain; and unwilling to hand it over to God through prayer and forgiveness, she re-entered her life at home with family without us really know-

ing how much of our time together had really been able to penetrate the shell she used to keep herself safe. As I thought about her life and the New Year I was reminded of something I heard a friend of mine say which was a quote from T.D. Jakes, “You can’t have a new year with and old mind”. This lady unlike so many others who attended the retreat seemed to leave with the same mind she had when she arrived. Whilst change was evident in so many others, and God was able to breakthrough in lives which had been equally harrowing, for her forgiveness of herself was a step too far.

To have a new year – one that is different from the past, it means change and change means a new mind : All change starts here - It takes a new mind:

To accept Christ.

No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. John 6:44 everyone who belongs to me, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed--yes, whom I made! Isaiah 43:7

To forgive and be forgiven God is faithful and reliable. If we confess our sins, he forgives them and cleanses us from everything we've done wrong. 1 John 1:9

To stick to your goals Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. John 15:4

To learn a new skill I have strength for anything through Him who gives me power. Philippians 4:13

To lose weight So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

To start a new job For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10

“You can’t have a new year with and old mind”.

T.D. Jakes

To have a new destiny

I

and one day we will all attend a literal banf you are reading this article and you quet He will hold for us all. Until then, if have not yet invited Jesus Christ to be you accept Jesus this will be the biggest and your Lord and Saviour; to come into most important mind change you will ever and change your life please do take a make. It will not only change your eternal few moments to reflect on the importance of destination, but also change the way you doing so. Whilst in your own mind you may think about and approach your current life. think that you are a good person, the reality Below is a prayer that you can say out loud. is none of us is perfect, and the bible actuJesus tells us that when we pray to God we ally says none of us is good but God. No should call Him Father because He wants us matter how good you may be, we can never to recognise Him as a loving Father who reach Gods standards, or be good enough on wants to spare us from the eternal conseour own. The good news is that we don’t quences of our wrongdoings. We pray in have to be. In the last book of the bible Jesus’ name because Jesus came and died in (Revelation 3:20) Jesus says "Look! I stand our place and so by accepting Jesus, what at the door and knock. If you hear my voice He did actually wipes out the consequences and open the door, I will come in, and we we would otherwise have to pay for our own will share a meal together as friends.” This wrongs doings. If you are willing to accept is an open invitation, Jesus has gone to pre- Jesus He will send His Holy Spirit to help, pare a place for everyone that accepts Him comfort and guide you through your life.

TO PRAY TO ACCEPT JESUS NOW Dear Heavenly Father I recognise that I have not lived up to your standards and have broken your laws in thought, words and deeds. I repent and turn from all these things and ask you to forgive me for my wrongs. I invite Jesus into my life and ask Him to be my Saviour and Lord.

Please send your Holy Spirit to guide my life so that I can live a holy life acceptable to you.

I pray this in Jesus name - Amen If you just prayed that prayer welcome to the family of God. Please find a church and share with someone your new decision. You can use the link below to help you choose a church. http://christianity.about.com/od/churchandcommunity/ht/chooseachurch.htm If 2013 has not brought you the things that you wanted, expected or needed, because you lacked motivation, skill or wherewithal, determine by Gods grace that 2014 will be your year of breakthrough. Don’t make ‘Gods timing’ an excuse for inactivity. As the wisdom books tell us God does have a time for everything, but like the Israelites we can allow fear to keep us in the wilderness long after God had originally planned for us to enter into our inheritance. He that is within you is greater than the giant that you have to meet; if you want to be successful you need to be bold like Esther. For every change you have or are planning to fulfil in 2014 to, let me encourage you to step up and step into your destiny.

“You can’t have a new year with and old mind”.

What disempowering thoughts, beliefs and mindsets do you need to ditch to have a new year?:

What empowering thoughts, beliefs and mindsets do you need to embrace to have a new year?:

Tel: + 44 (0) 7562 216916 Email: restoringlife@ymail.com Web: WWW.RESTORINGLIFEFOUNDATION.ORG Restoring Life Foundation RestLFoundation