VOL 9 NO 3
JULY-SEPTEMBER 2017
THE DESIGNER
CREATOR BRINGING HOPE IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SOCIAL ISSUES
LIVING IN A WAR ZONE MY STORY
Difference
DESIGNED TO MAKE A
E Q U I P P I N G
W O M E N
F O R
M I N I S T R Y
+
M I S S I O N
inside
18
Designed
09
to make a difference
04 Divine design 09 Designed to make a difference
JULY-SEPTEMBER 2017
revive@salvationarmy.org
11 God’s design for my life BIBLE STUDY 15 Living in a war zone MY STORY 20 Bringing light and hope SOCIAL ISSUES
22 The Whole World Mobilising WEBSITE AND APP
04
COLUMNS
IN EVERY ISSUE
08 Telling the truth LEADERSHIP
03
14 A new song SPIRITUAL LIFE
14
Editorial
18 The Prayer House 22 Book review
Front cover: Lieutenant Stivina Sinana, photo by Colonel Ted Horwood Back cover: Anti-human trafficking poster, design by Berni Georges All Bible quotations throughout this edition of Revive are from the New International Version 2011 unless stated otherwise TM – The Message, GW – God’s Word, NASB – New American Standard Bible, NKSV – New King James Version, KJV – King James Version, GNB – Good News Bible, NLT – New Living Translation, SASB – The Song Book of The Salvation Army
Articles on any subject of interest to women in ministry are welcomed by the editor. To send an article, write to revive@salvationarmy.org
A RESOURCE MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN IN MINISTRY AND MISSION Publisher: Commissioner Silvia Cox, World President of Women’s Ministries Editor: Commissioner Janine Donaldson Editorial assistance: Major Jane Kimberley, Paul Mortlock and Kevin Sims Designer: Berni Georges © André Cox, General of The Salvation Army, 2017 Founders of The Salvation Army: William and Catherine Booth Printed in the UK by Lamport Gilbert Printers Ltd
CONTACT EMAIL ADDRESS: revive@salvationarmy.org
2 Revive
THE SALVATION ARMY International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4EH United Kingdom
Subscription details at:
http://sar.my/revsubu (Revive subscription UK)
http://sar.my/revsubo (Revive subscription overseas)
from the editor
Handcrafted by a designer-creator Commissioner Janine Donaldson EDITOR
‘For we are God’s handiwork, created in Jesus Christ to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do’ Ephesians 2:10
J
ust recently we had the joy of a new great-niece being born into the family. She is adorable and it’s so easy to see God’s hand in her for she is wonderfully and fearfully made. Sometimes I think as women it’s easier to see God at work in others than it is to see his hand
on us. Wouldn’t it be great to really take hold of the thought that you are God’s specially formed handiwork, designed by a perfect creator. You wear a designer label embossed with God’s own fingerprint! The value of an object is usually determined either by what it’s made of or what it’s used for. As we read in Psalm 139:1316: ‘You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvellous – how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the
You wear a designer label embossed with GOD’S OWN FINGERPRINT!
womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.’ This Psalm reminds us how valuable we are to God. If we fail to recognise the value God places on us, we will never appreciate our worth as women. Each of you has been handcrafted by a designer-creator, made to his unique specifications. We are fearfully and wonderfully made and we bear his image knowing that he was not ashamed to call us his own. 2 Corinthians 6:16, 18 states: ‘I will be their God, and they will be my people … I will be a father to you and you will be my sons and daughters.’ God made us women. He never had any doubts or regrets when he made you in his image and likeness. ‘So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them’ (Genesis 1:27). To create something means that it is unique, that it is something that would not naturally occur on its own but rather depends on the initiative and action of a creator. That’s God at work – we bear his image. Please don’t forget who you were designed by. What you bring in serving God is uniquely woman and uniquely you. God had a unique plan for women on earth. He created us with his own definition in mind, using our strengths and flaws to paint an eternal picture. Oh, that we would value his creation, both in ourselves and in others! May your unique gifts, talents, abilities and characteristics make an eternal and positive impact in this world.
Revive 3
feature
Divine design ‘With wisdom and authority from God, we become STEWARDS OF HIS WORLD. We are accredited co-workers of God’ 4 Revive
feature
I
Minny Chan
like discovering new stationery items and household utensils in shops. Some are noticeably interesting, some are particularly user-friendly and some are just what I have been looking for. Sometimes, I would like to take the ideas that I see and make something similar myself. I admire the creativity and talents of the designers who have made these excellent products. When I think of the skill of those designers, I remember the psalmist who praised the great designer of the universe in Psalm 8:1, 3-4: ‘Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens … When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?’ I too join in praise with the psalmist when I look at the wonderful design and arrangement of all creation. Genesis 1:26 states: ‘Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness.” ’ It is awesome to be affirmed that we are created according to God’s image. We are God’s divine design – what a wonderful thought.
God’s divine design – according to his will
The psalmist reminds us that we are incredibly made by God and safely kept in his hands. ‘For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise
you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be’ (Psalm 139:13-16). We are God’s divine design, he wants to provide for us and place us under his protection. Even before our bodies were formed, he knew us. We are precious and valuable in his eyes. Another thing that makes us special from all other creatures is the breath of life we have received from God. ‘Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being’ (Genesis 2:7). We received God’s breath and became ‘living’ beings. We are able to know God, have a relationship with him and communicate with him. God’s love for us means that he has a good plan for each of us and he longs to have fellowship with us. Because we are made in the image of God wisdom too can be ours, as described in Genesis 1:26 – ‘Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”’ God gave us wisdom so that we can work with him. The psalmist was amazed at the appointment that God had given humankind: ‘You made them rulers over Revive 5
feature
the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild … Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!’ (Psalm 8:6-7, 9). With wisdom and authority from God, we become stewards of his world. We are accredited co-workers of God.
God’s divine design – according to his plan
Because we are made in God’s image we are all alike, yet we are all unique. This is the plan of God. A jigsaw is full of many similar but unique pieces, and all the pieces can be used to make up the complete puzzle. This illustration is a reminder to us of the marvellous picture of God’s plan that featured all humankind. Just as no piece of the puzzle is more important than another piece, we too shouldn’t feel superior to or better than anyone else. The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 4-11: ‘There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.’ According to God’s divine plan, the Holy Spirit distributes different kinds of gifts to every one of us. We need to celebrate and appreciate the differences we have. In God’s divine design, we have a sense of belonging: ‘But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light’ (1 Peter 2:9). This is who we are in Christ, and because of this we desire to declare his praises.
God’s divine design – act accordingly
We are carefully and perfectly made by God: ‘God saw all that he had made, and it was very good’ (Genesis 1:31). When Adam and Eve sinned, the image of God in humankind was distorted. People could no longer fit into the wonderful picture of God, just as damaged jigsaw pieces can no longer slot together. How can we match the shape and pattern again? We thank God for sending his one and only Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to take up our sins, to die and be resurrected for us. As we read in 1 Peter 2:24 – ‘“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed”.’ And in Romans 5:8 – ‘But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.’ After the image of God in us was distorted, the only hope that we have is salvation from Jesus Christ. For those who are willing to believe and be saved through Christ, we can be transformed into God’s image again. We all have the same assurance. It is a precious gift that God has given to all people, because he loves us. God wants all people to be transformed back into his divine design. Paul reminded us of what our transformed lives should look like: ‘And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness’ (Ephesians 4:24) and ‘You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger,
‘Just as no piece of a puzzle is more important than another piece, we too SHOULDN’T FEEL SUPERIOR TO OR BETTER than anyone else’ 6 Revive
feature
rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator’ (Colossians 3:7-10). We can really join in when we are willing to change from our old indulgent lives to the new and unselfish person with the help of the Holy Spirit. ‘Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind’ (Philippians 2:1-2). God encourages us to be united in him. No one should discriminate against others, as we are all created in God’s image. ‘If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be’ (1 Corinthians 12:17-18). God has created each of us with our divinely designed differences. The main purpose of God’s divine design for us is not to feel more superior than others. Instead, God wants us to follow his teaching, share his love and do good works with him. ‘For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do’ (Ephesians 2:10). God’s plan is for us to encourage others to accept Jesus Christ as Saviour and restore the image of God in them. In Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus said, ‘“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey
everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”’ This is the great mission that Jesus Christ has given to all people – this is his grand design. Through his divine design God’s desire is to let his people ‘reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ’ (Ephesians 4:13). With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, godliness can be restored in us. But we know that there are still imperfections – times when we are tempted to go astray. But we can be sure that God will help us: ‘Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 1:6). The Salvation Army’s ninth Doctrine reminds us that through continued obedient faith in Christ, we can be in a continuous state of salvation. And the tenth doctrine is confirmed in Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:23): ‘May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ May God bless and keep you.
Major Minny Chan CORPS OFFICER OF TSUEN KWAI CORPS HONG KONG AND MACAU COMMAND
Revive 7
leadership
T
he letter was on the table, describing the good quality of the work of my employee but also some serious shortcomings in the way she dealt with administrative tasks. It was a letter of warning and I found it difficult to write. But we knew, my assistant and I, that it was the best way to help our colleague to reach her goals. And in fact, as a result, she quickly increased her skills and eventually thanked us for this action. There are many situations when we should be able to tell the truth: when faced with obvious wrongdoing, injustice such as human trafficking, when there is a lack of respect for the law, or when somebody is marginalised or humiliated. Being a leader requires us to have a firm and right (in terms of equity and justice) attitude towards our colleagues. The right
‘Before we begin to talk, we should also examine our motivation’ attitude also helps us to grow as a team and to reach our goals, thanks to the quality of our work. But how can we be sure that we do it with a right attitude, knowing that we are quick to judge, not always in a fair way? The following quote from Zechariah 8:16 (The Message) contains important advice: ‘Tell the truth, the whole truth, when you speak. Do the right thing by one another, both personally and in your courts. Don’t cook up plans to take unfair advantage of others. Don’t do or say what isn’t so. I hate all that stuff. Keep your lives simple and honest.’ It begins with us, on a personal level: do we take time to examine ourselves and see if we are living in the truth? How do we deal with failures and sins? Are we ready to accept the help of others? Only in this way can we grow in our ability to discern 8 Revive
what is right and what is wrong. Then, telling the truth, the whole truth will be easier because I will be ready to acknowledge my own concern and responsibility as well. I have faithful friends who journey with me and who love me enough to tell me the truth. It is really helpful! Recalling my young colleague who received a letter of warning: a few months later, I was the one who had to ask for forgiveness because I did not find some papers and I accused her of being at fault (being wrong). Yes! Such is life, sometimes … Before we begin to talk, we should also examine our motivation: every judgement made for reasons such as wanting to gain more advantage or power, or to overprotect ourselves, even when facing difficult realities or issues, will be destructive for us and our neighbour. Doing the right thing goes with speaking at the right time. That is when I know enough to have a fair and good comprehension and perspective of the situation, when the circumstances and time are ideal to provide a loving and caring environment for such a discussion, when the people are ready to share. Lastly, but certainly not least, when I can love the person more than myself, I will be able to wish the best for both of us. Discerning the time of God, living in his footsteps, keeping our lives simple and honest: what a good plan to be able to speak up for those who don’t have a voice and to develop with each other this quality of relationship that enables us to reach the higher purpose of our lives.
Columnist for 2017
Major Christine Volet-Sterckx TERRITORIAL SOCIAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR AND UNITED NATIONS REPRESENTATIVE (GENEVA) SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND HUNGARY TERRITORY
feature
Designed to make a difference Reflections on the significance of women living out God’s design in the Church, family and community
Stivina Sinana
R
ighteous, wicked, weak, strong – the Bible shares the stories of many women and through their lives we can learn about God’s intended role for women. In Genesis 2:18 we find that Eve was created as a ‘helper’ for Adam, but here we need to bear in mind two facts. Firstly, in Genesis 1:27-28 we read that man and woman were created at the same time and in God’s image, and both were told to rule over the earth that he had created. There is no suggestion that the man was superior to the woman and in Genesis 2:18, there is still no evidence that Eve was inferior to Adam. Secondly, before Eve’s creation, it was Adam who had a problem – he was lonely and incomplete! God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone.’ The creation of humanity was not complete until God formed a woman. As women, we can be confident that we are part of God’s grand design. Our lives, our work and our presence matter more than we can imagine. When we look at our lives and the challenges we face, we must not miss the perfection of God’s plan, because everything about us has something to do with his designed purpose. Being a woman is not a biological accident; it’s not incidental to who you are or how you live. According to the Bible, the fact you were born female is profoundly significant; it is no minor or inconsequential detail. When you step out in God’s design as a woman, you step into the great adventure of discovering who you
were intended to be and he has given us the elements that are necessary to accomplish that purpose. According to Isaiah 43:6-7, God created sons and daughters for the purpose of displaying his glory. His design reflects profound truths about his character. Your womanhood has a purpose. The Lord wants you to discover the beauty of his plan and to experience the joy and fulfilment of being exactly who he created you to be.
intended. The woman that I am does not make me a different kind of Christian, but when I became a Christian that made me a different kind of woman. God created male and female for specific purposes. His design is not arbitrary or unimportant; it is intentional. He wants women to discover, embrace and delight in the beauty of his design.
What does it mean to be a woman?
The messages about women that our culture send us are often confusing, demanding and discouraging. Throughout Scripture it is clear that God
In a sinful world, we fall short of understanding or living in the way God
What does God have to say about being a woman?
Revive 9
feature
value insightful wisdom peacemaker devotion ‘When I became a Christian that made me a different kind of woman’
self-control designed women to be of significant value and hold unique roles within society, the Church and family. God does not expect women to stay at home and do nothing for the Church or community. While some in the Church waste time quibbling over what women should do, the Word of God is clear; the role of a godly woman is to exhibit wholehearted devotion to Christ, purity of heart and to use her God-given gifts.
Roles of godly women
If as women we recognise our uniqueness, we can make positive changes to the world around us. In the book of Judges there is the story of Deborah, a woman created by God to rule and to judge the Israelites. She was the only woman mentioned in the list of judges, but her inclusion shows us that God does not look at gender when he chooses his servants. She was blessed with wisdom, she was a prophetess and a leader for the whole nation. If we think we have little to contribute, then this is an amazing thought.
Attributes of godly women
Godliness and good works based on sound doctrine are the adornments of the Christian woman, rather than 10 Revive
external sexual appeal. Your emphasis must not be to adorn yourself, but to be adorned by God’s Holy Spirit. Teaching in such a way as to strengthen others by exercising selfcontrol and living the example of Christ, godly women demonstrate hospitality, care for the young, sick and vulnerable. Older women should, as the Scriptures teach, invest in and intentionally guide younger women. By living this way, the Church will be strengthened and grow, as will the family when women demonstrate love and care. Through their lives, women can influence their community. According to a proverb, ‘If you educate a woman, you educate a family or a nation.’ As women we need to make an impact which glorifies God.
Christian women have the power to change the world
I’m convinced that the most influential people on earth are women. It is women who bring the next generation into the world and it is usually women who are directly responsible for their upbringing as they teach, clean, cook, discipline and encourage, and usually know the right times to do each of these. Women are capable of changing the world. They are insightful, peacemakers
and blessed by God to be fiercely loyal. I am convinced that if anyone has the potential to change the hearts and minds of this world, it must be the Christian woman. Consider the example of Ruth. She never preached a sermon or wrote a book, and she never had civic power, position or money, yet the godliness of her character altered both the life of her family and the future of her people. Through her life, she changed a culture, stereotypes and hearts. You don’t need a grand plan to change the world – all you need to do is maintain a godly lifestyle and obey the Lord. So, let your light shine, remembering that you are God’s design.
Lieutenant Stivina Sinana SOCIAL SERVICES AND CHILD SPONSORSHIP SECRETARY TANZANIA TERRITORY
bible study
God’s design for my life
Jessy George finds direction and purpose for her life in the Bible as she aims to live in peace, be an example to others and focus on eternity
I
t was 1997 and as I boarded a flight to South Africa I was reminded of Isaiah 58:14: ‘I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land’. I felt excited and privileged to be on my way to the International Youth Forum. I am a third-generation Salvationist – all my grandparents were officers (ministers), but like other families we have known sad times. When I was just one year old, my father was promoted to Glory (passed away); he was just 33 and my mother, a teacher at the Salvation Army High School, faced bringing me up on her own. Today I work as deputy secretary to the Government of Kerala, South India. I am married with two lovely daughters Revive 11
bible study
and together we serve the Lord at Trivandrum Central Corps (church). I believe that God assigns to each one of us a role and a purpose in life and we need to do the best we can to fulfil these. I feel that my life is only worthwhile if daily I am growing in spiritual power and being useful to others. In all of this my attitude plays an important part and reflects the person that I am. Living in peace I believe that peace comes from my inner life and affects my mind and soul. I have learnt that I can never gain peace of mind without first securing my soul in God. His peace is like a compass for my soul that leads me in the direction his Holy Spirit intends. It is only when I have experienced God’s peace for myself 12 Revive
that I can lead others to peace. In John 14:27 Jesus said: ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.’ Through these words, I have comfort and confidence, knowing I will not be left alone in any situation and that all I have to do is show faith. Hebrews 12:14 encourages us: ‘Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy.’ How blessed is the person who lives to share God’s peace with others; I need to be a peacemaker, not just a lover of peace. Jesus said: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God’ (Matthew 5:9).
Living life as a lesson I remind myself not to seek to live someone else’s life, but instead live my life thinking about what I can do, rather than worrying about what might happen to me. Life’s greatest opportunities lie on the path of duty, remembering ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink’ (Romans 12:20). Bad things can happen at any time and in these situations – what I call ‘anvil’ moments – all we can do is brace ourselves against the shock and claim the promise ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’ (Joshua 1:5). According to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of independent India, ‘The true joy in life is to ally yourself to a great purpose, to throw
bible study
‘Life’s greatest opportunities lie on the path of duty’
yourself into it heart and soul and to forget your little self for the realisation of that purpose’. I believe that what matters to God is how many times I can get up again after I fall. He wants me to grow the positive aspects of my personality and this often happens when I am faced with difficulties. In her blindness Helen Keller said, ‘Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows. It’s what the sunflowers do.’ In all the shadows of life I try to keep looking to God. I want my life to be an example to others. Eternal life The Bible contains so many accounts of people who struggle against all kinds of hardship. ‘The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers
him from then all’ (Psalm 34:19). I think that life is rather like the journey when going on holiday – I look forward to reaching my destination, but there may be obstacles along the way. The life I live today prepares me for the future. ‘Do not love the world or anything in the world … The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives for ever’ (1 John 2:15, 17). I need to live my life trusting for eternal life. ‘I know that everything God does will endure for ever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it’ (Ecclesiastes 3:14).
Jessy George TRIVANDRUM CENTRAL CORPS, INDIA SOUTH WESTERN TERRITORY
Revive 13
spiritual life feature God gives us a song
Major M. Mercy Manjula DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF WOMEN’S MINISTRIES CHENNAI DIVISION, INDIA CENTRAL TERRITORY
A new
Columnist for 2017
SONG
H
ow much time do we spend just waiting? Waiting in a queue, waiting for a response, waiting the expected arrival of a new baby; not to mention time spent waiting for a bus or a train. Time spent waiting is not necessarily wasted if we remain focused on the anticipated outcome, but waiting requires patience and some people are more patient than others.
Returning to Psalm 40:3, we find David’s response to God’s deliverance: ‘He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.’ The new song came to him as a result of experiencing God’s grace and this was expressed in a hymn of praise acknowledging God’s glory. Although David already trusted in God, this new song would have an impact far beyond his own life. Others would see and hear what God had done for him and ‘put their trust in the Lord’. Which is what happened many years later when Paul and Silas were in prison (Acts 16:25). They sang hymns of praise to God to lift their spirits and we are told that all the other prisoners and the jailer could hear them. Their hymn singing was an expression of an inner confidence and joy in God that just could not be stifled, even by imprisonment. The dramatic earthquake that followed not only led to their release but also to the conversion of the jailer and his family. When others saw and heard what God had done, some chose to put their trust in the Lord. The experience of David expressed in verses 1-3 of Psalm 40 reminds us of our need to wait patiently on the Lord who always hears us and responds to our needs, placing a new song in our hearts for all to see and hear.
God hears our cry
The psalmist wrote: ‘I waited patiently for the Lord’ (Psalm 40:1). When going through a difficult time, David purposely placed himself where he could meet with God, not trying to dictate how this would happen but waiting in faith believing that God would come and meet him. In the second part of this verse we read God’s response to his quiet waiting: ‘He turned to me and heard my cry.’ David was not the only one who discovered the importance of waiting upon the Lord. Within the Bible there are many examples of people who, when faced with troubles, waited patiently for God to respond. Nehemiah was distressed when he heard about the Jewish remnant who had survived exile and how the walls and gates of Jerusalem had been destroyed. On receiving this news Nehemiah’s response was to mourn, fast and pray (Nehemiah 1:4). For his part, God opened up the way for a conversation with King Artaxerxes which led to the rebuilding of the walls.
God lifts us up
In Psalm 40:2, we find God’s response to patiently waiting and believing: ‘He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock.’ The language used here is most probably metaphorical, but the truth is strong. When in a bad and seemingly hopeless place, God intervenes in David’s life bringing light and hope. He not only lifts his spirit but also grounds his fears by placing his feet on a rock. This action conveys the idea of stability and confidence and is reflected in the Psalms on other occasions: ‘For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life’ (Psalm 56:13). Here we have testimony to God’s power to rescue us from the most difficult circumstances and to enable us to step out with confidence. 14 Revive
‘Within the Bible there are many examples of people who … waited patiently for God to respond’
my story
Living in a war zone An interview with Faith
M
ajor Elena Kotrutsa, Divisional Director for Women’s Ministries, Ukraine, shares a conversation through Skype with Faith [name changed to protect her identity] who conducts her ministry in the middle of a war zone. Their conversation took place immediately after a prayer meeting
where 13 women had met to pray for peace. They were praying bold prayers, regardless of the fact that in the apartment above them lived an active military opponent. Living and serving in a war zone, Faith knows there is a divine design for her life and she shares this with those she serves as she continues to seek God in the midst of chaos. She is a great example of faithfulness and prays constantly, despite her circumstances.
‘The war is very real. Every time I hear the shelling or bombing, I am filled with fear’
Major Kotrutsa asked Faith:
How is it possible for you to live and minister in a city that so many others have left? I did not ever think to leave this place of mission and ministry to God’s people
because I feel a responsibility to look after the resources God has given us. At the beginning, we all hoped that military operations would soon end, but God had another plan. He miraculously helped my children and grandchildren to leave the city and now they live in a safe place. He left me behind to minister to those who could not leave and he gives me the courage and fearlessness to continue each day. The war is very real. Every time I hear the shelling or bombing, I am filled with fear, a fear that tries to force me to forget who God is and his promises to keep me from evil. The Salvation Army’s officers’ (ministers’) apartment is located in one of the safest areas of the city. Revive 15
my story
‘I think that once I saw GOD’S ANGELS surrounding us’
However, during the last two years, there have been times when we have been in danger of losing this home. The military forces tried to capture it and there are many people trying to obtain property for free at this time, but we still hold on to these premises. This place is an island of physical and spiritual security where there is no fear.
What have you learnt about God and your faith in these circumstances? God guards me in every way. His Word promises, ‘The Lord will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard’ (Isaiah 52:12). Physically, I feel fear more when it’s passed and is behind me. Yet I have strong confidence that, although unseen, there is a spiritual, military-like force placed around me. So many times in my life, I have worried about what might happen. In the past when I had no money to raise my children, I would imagine the worst scenarios; yet during that time I learnt that God was my provider and so I put my trust in him completely. My faith in God brought me liberty when I was bound with fear. Considering that at any time I could die, especially when travelling through the war
16 Revive
zone, I now value more and more the redemption and security that I have in
Christ. Through my circumstances, God has empowered me as a preacher and also helped me to learn to play the piano at the age of 56. What’s happening at the corps? At the beginning of the war, the corps (church) was divided. People used to spend hours arguing and trying to prove that their opinion was right. Then I decided there was no place for aggressive, political conversations in our corps. We would not spend our lives destroying each other verbally and emotionally, instead we needed to be worshipping together and praying for each other. Bible studies and prayer meetings now take place weekly and for the older people we have Bible audio lessons. I cannot imagine my ministry life without home league (women’s) meetings and fellowship time. We quietly sing Christian hymns which give encouragement to our souls and peace in our hearts. I join with other women to provide for those who are hungry by cooking vegetable soup and pancakes with homemade jam, which I make!
my story
‘Considering that at any time I could die – I now value more and more the SECURITY that I have IN CHRIST’
Last year a few people went to the corps for the first time and were amazed by what they found and so our little corps, or home church, is growing. When people first attend you see their anxiety, distrust and scepticism. Then gradually comes calm: they feel safe and freely share their stories, knowing that we care as we enjoy fellowship and fun together. Free from fear, they now close their eyes during prayers. I think that once I saw God’s angels surrounding us. What encouragement do you want to share with the corps? God’s Word (Deuteronomy 31:8) assures me that the Lord goes before me. How then can I despair? I cannot run away or avoid the circumstances around me so I completely put my trust in God. He goes before me, making sure that things work out for me and his people. My brothers and sisters outside the war zone area support us with their prayers and I value pastoral conversations by Skype. I tell my people that they are surrounded by God’s presence. I encourage them to do what they need to do, every day trusting that the Lord designed them to live a fearless life filled with joy and inner peace. The Bible and
God’s Holy Spirit give us confidence. We must survive because there is so much to do; we need to bring soldiers (church members) and friends back to the corps and enrol new soldiers, as well as restore the youth and children’s programmes. Our dream is to organise a children’s summer camp. What thoughts would you want to share with people outside the war zone? Live every day of your life like it is your last day; don’t let fear or concerns stop you following God’s design for your life. My worst fear is simply that we may allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by what might happen.
Faith Interview facilitated by Major Elena Kotrutsa Divisional Director for Women’s Ministries Ukraine Division Eastern Europe Territory
Revive 17
THE
prayer
HOUSE
‘They all joined together constantly in prayer’ (Acts 1:14)
A
t twenty months of age, our Jordan was determined that his grandma should read to him … and a huge stuffed lion! This was not a normal snuggly lion but an enormous sheepdogsized lion. He used no words and yet he was communicating so clearly his goal and, of course he succeeded. After some struggle, Jordan, the book and at least the head of the huge lion were all in the rocking chair. With only actions, Jordan had my attention and managed to change my plan from reading only to him to reading to him and a huge lion. Quietly, he settled on my lap to hear the story and see the pictures. As he relaxed into my arms, he listened intently. We were created to communicate with God with or without words, but with the goal that he shapes us. As he speaks to us, we are shaped by him when we are open to his transforming power. Shaped into his likeness, we are taught to mirror his image. His love and grace become evident because we are guided and moulded by him throughout the moments of our life. This is not about a prayer prayed once, but a breathing of God into our souls. However, too often we come to God with words alone, demanding he listen to what we want, what we need. From childhood, I was taught that prayer should include praise, thanksgiving, confession and intercession. While words are not wrong when prayed in his
Prayer shapes me! will, there are times when he calls us just to sit at his feet and listen. In these quiet moments, he is able to show how we can be more like him. Our self-focused words and demands do not allow him to shape us, but quietness allows his voice to be heard above the hurts, fears and weariness of life. Listening is not an easy discipline. Our lives are so busy with long ‘to-do’ lists. Ministry duties, family priorities, cleaning, cooking and other duties compete for those last few minutes of each day. How can we stop to listen to God, we ask? How can we give up more time than we already give? Yet ever so gently, he calls us to himself and as we look into his face we find rest, peace, healing and wholeness. Allowing him to shape us is frightening. What if we hear his voice and he is angry with us? What if we can’t achieve the shaping he desires? Friends, we are the heart of his heart. He is filled with joy even at our attempts to receive his shaping. He will never ask of us what he will not also give us sufficient power and strength to achieve. More than this, if we are willing, he recreates us to be like him.
‘Our self-focused words and demands do not allow him to shape us, but QUIETNESS allows his voice to be heard’ 18 Revive
We were designed by God to communicate with him in such a way that he transforms us. Through prayer, God calls us to be like him, to let him shape us into his holy design. This shaping takes place when we let him guide and change us daily, creating in us a renewed desire to love others daily. Like our Jordan and the reading of the book, go to him without words and just listen to what he has to say to your heart. Create a space where he is welcomed and all the lists of life are left at the door. If you sleep, enjoy that sleep. It could be his greatest gift to you. If he speaks, remember that he speaks in love and that his power is already at work in your life. He is celebrating you. If he calls you to change, he will give you the power for that change. Nothing is impossible when God has control of our lives. Come to him just now with an open heart, open hands and open soul. Let the lists go. Let the words go. Rest at his feet and give him the opportunity to breathe life into your soul. Let him energise you! Let him shape you.
Major Anita Caldwell CORPS OFFICER, WACO CORPS USA SOUTHERN TERRITORY
the prayer house
Revive 19
social issues
Bringing LIGHT and hope Ministry shared with victims of domestic violence is part of God’s design
20 Revive
,
social issues
Verónica Ramirez
I
believe that God is the Creator and designer of each one of us and that, by his plan, he created us to be his hands and feet so that we can show his love, mercy and kindness as we carry out the task of being among those that are suffering. This reflects part of The Salvation Army’s International Mission Statement – ‘ … to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination’ – highlighting our caring mission when we are moved to do something that benefits others. More than two years ago, we responded to the problems within our local community of Tres Arroyos, located in the Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Our concern was for women who were victims of domestic violence and so we started a programme called Unidas para un Cambio, which in English is United for Change. Two professional counsellors engage with us in this ministry as the women we meet are dealing with many issues. They have a fundamental need for psychological support and this is where the professionals can guide, counsel and provide tools for their everyday lives. In all of this we are aware that only God can heal the deepest wounds of the heart.
It is wonderful to see the women taking the opportunity to pray or read a Bible verse as they recognise their need for the love of Jesus. This aspect of the programme is very important as God’s direction is something that other nongovernmental organisations cannot offer. This ministry is impacting the lives of the women we serve. While the professional counsellors deal with their psychological problems, they feel that they must distance themselves from the women to maintain objectivity. But when we invite the women to let the Holy Spirit into their hearts, we see that this is what makes the most impact on their lives. We are also seeing healing within our community because we give every woman the opportunity to come and be a part of our programmes. It does not matter about their religion or social background, we welcome them without any kind of discrimination and this impacts the people. While we admit that the results surprise us, we have to be sensitive to know when the right moment to talk about Jesus is. Sometimes we do not need many words; just a hug to let the women know they are loved, or if they feel lonely we keep them company. When
they are sad we offer comfort, and we remember their birthdays and special dates. All of these gestures mean so much to the women who, after years of being mistreated, are slowly discovering what it is like to be loved, valued and treated kindly. I thank God for allowing me to work for the divine Creator – the One who designed each one of us. It is wonderful to be doing what Jesus wants me to do and making a difference in the lives of women who have suffered so much. My prayer is that we will continue to make an impact on the lives of people that do not know Jesus. ‘He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds’ (Psalm 147:3). This is my hope and God´s promise for each of us.
Lieutenant Verónica Ramirez CORPS OFFICER, TRES ARROYOS, ARGENTINA SOUTH AMERICA EAST TERRITORY
‘GOD’S DIRECTION is something that other non-governmental organisations cannot offer’ Revive 21
THE W
The Whole World Mobilising website and app provide real-time updates on mobilisation activities, practical coaching, community and global prayer. Visit the website, sign up to participate and download The Whole World Mobilising app. Providing inspirational tools to put your faith into action ...
DOWNLOAD FROM the APP STORE and GOOGLE PLAY
SALVATIONARMY.ORG/MOBILISING FACEBOOK.COM/MOBILISING
review
ROOTED AND REACHING by Jessica Hodder-Fagerstrom A devotional book containing snapshots of life in Kenya, which Jessica captures in her vignettes of daily devotional thought. The snippets are not complete stories, but are parts and pieces of experiences that she had while living in Kenya. Her attention to detail allows you to see into the heart and spirit of Kenya; the people, the places, and the beauty of that great country. The daily devotionals are short, with Scripture and songs from The Song Book of The Salvation Army to supplement or support the material. I have been to Kenya, and enjoyed reading about places I had seen and recalling the beauty of the land. This would be a great book to use with your devotions, or as a series to read for a World Services emphasis in a corps (church) setting. The book is published by Frontier Press of The Salvation Army USA Western Territory – go to: frontierpress.org/shop/rooted-and-reaching Review ReviewbybyCommissioner CommissionerDawn DawnHeatwole Heatwole Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Americas and Caribbean Zone INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
22 Revive
Announcement from the World President of Women’s Ministries Dear Readers I great you in the name of Jesus Christ. Revive is a magazine that is now firmly established as an excellent tool for ministry among women, whether it be at territorial or corps level.
written by women for women in ministry and mission
Published four times a year, this unique publication is made available at an extremely affordable price but, just as with other magazines of its type, it is not immune to commercial challenges and pressures. In recent years International Headquarters has absorbed and subsidised the rising production costs of its regular publications – Revive, All the World and Words of Life – but the latest round of print and distribution cost increases necessitates a small increase in the price to readers. From the September-December 2017 edition of Revive, the annual subscription rates – including postage – will rise by £1.50 to £10.00 in the UK and by £2.00 to £18.00 for the rest of the world. The cost to UK subscribers who order copies through their local corps will also rise, in this instance by 50 pence to £2.00 per copy. These changes are also reflected in the Subscriptions information panel below. Despite these increases, I believe that Revive will continue to represent excellent value for money and trust that you will continue as a loyal reader. Perhaps you could take this opportunity to make more women aware of this ministry resource and encourage them to become readers also? Your local territorial headquarters or corps can also arrange for more copies to be made available, ensuring the magazine will continue to flourish as one of the most affordable methods of equipping women in mission and ministry around the world. With every blessing, Silvia Cox, Commissioner World President of Women’s Ministries
subscriptions
UK £10.00 Or email: subscriptions@sp-s.co.uk For enquiries telephone [44] (0) 1933 445445 Or email: subscriptions@sp-s.co.uk
£2.00
£18.00
S AND UP
Annual Day of Prayer for
VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING Sunday 24 September 2017