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Rescue
SHARE CHRIST,
She left home at 13, thinking the good life would come easy. But a series of bad choices and manipulative men left Lineo dejected and vulnerable. With no place to go, she succumbed to a life of drug addiction and prostitution…until God led her to the Beautiful Dream Society, a home in Lesotho, Africa, for trafficked girls. Fueled by God’s love, her new life’s passion is to counsel “unwanted” children.
LOVE
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PEOPLE
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Care
Medical/Dental Outreach, Peru
Feed
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About 800 homeless children are fed Monday through Friday at this feeding center in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar, Africa.
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“ Find a way g to do somethin for somebody else.”
STRAIGHT FROM THE
Heart
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riends, Christmas is approaching, and that makes me so excited because I love to give. It gives me so much pleasure to make someone happy by meeting a need or surprising them with something they’ve been wanting.
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Here at Joyce Meyer Ministries, we’re excited too, because we are focused on sharing Christ and loving people. Our hearts go out to those less fortunate and we want to help them however we’re able. Thankfully, friends and partners like you help us reach out to those in need every day. And we are forever grateful for your faithful and generous support.
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As the Christmas season draws near, I can’t think of any better way to celebrate Christ than by being a blessing to someone—especially if they’re unable to do much for themselves. Doing something for someone in need brings great joy not only to them, but also to your own heart. And more importantly, it’s a wonderful way to show honor and appreciation for God’s ultimate gift to us: our Savior, Jesus Christ!
walkway. You could leave a bag of groceries on a single mom’s doorstep. Bring a coat or blanket to a homeless person, or take them for a hearty lunch. I guarantee whatever you do for someone else will not only help that person, but you will experience incomparable joy yourself. I believe the best way for us to continue sharing Christ is by simply loving people whatever way the Holy Spirit leads us to. And friends, when you support our outreach efforts here at Joyce Meyer Ministries, you are doing that. You’re a part of everything we do to express the love of God. As we look forward to this wonderful time of the year, may you be especially blessed by and because of your giving to others.
I encourage you, during this special season, to find a way to do something for someone who can’t do it themselves. Maybe you can shovel snow from an elderly neighbor’s
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VO LU M E 29
No 6
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…For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. –2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)
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Contents By David L. Meyer Dave and Joyce’s son expresses his passion for sharing Christ and loving people.
11 An Attitude of Gratitude
10 14 19 32
T V SCHE DULE GOD’S WORD M A D E PE R SO N A L AME RI CA AT I TS B EST GOOD ST UF F
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7 A Heart for Missions
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By Joyce Meyer Find out the best way to never forget how blessed you are.
15 Jesus Loves the Little Children By Ginger Stache
23 Craving Acceptance By Joyce Meyer Joyce shares keys to making the choice between focusing on people’s rejection and God’s acceptance.
THANK YOU! Every day our Partners help us Share Christ and Love People. Check out joycemeyer.org/annualreport to see how your generosity helps others in need.
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ENJOYING EVERYDAY LIFE joycemeyer.org
9/18/14 10:08 AM
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Children in Madagascar and Namibia are being rescued from unthinkable situations and given hope for their future.
Hand of Hope Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions
All Bible references are from The Amplified Bible unless otherwise noted.
WE POSTED: PURPOSEFUL ACTS OF KINDNESS
Love is not a theory or merely talk; it is action (see 1 John 3:18). We can certainly love people with words that encourage and express how valuable we think they are, but we also need to use our resources of time, energy, possessions and finances to love others. You may be convinced you don’t have anything to give. Maybe you’re doing your best to pay your bills…you want to give but don’t see how you can. I’ve been very aggressive in finding creative ways to incorporate the theme of loving people into my everyday life. I want to encourage you to be creative as well…and then share your ideas with others!
Because of our friends and partners, nearly 1,100 children will be tucked safely into their beds tonight.
YOU SAID!
Excerpt from:
Alicia Riesdorph: Warms my heart so much to see this <3
joycemeyer.org/ everydayanswers
Anna E Vaughan: That is the feeling of sleeping on clouds lol. They look blissful.
join
Valeska Al: They are so cute! God bless & protect them always.
THE CONVERSATION!
Enjoying Everyday Life® is published by Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc. ®, a nonprofit corporation, Fenton, MO USA © 2014 Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc. Publications Agreement No. 41709522. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Enjoying Everyday Life has no subscription price and is supported through contributions worldwide. All gifts to this ministry are tax-deductible (in countries where this applies). Because all Enjoying Everyday Life issues are preplanned, we are unable to accept unsolicited manuscripts. For more information or to order, call locally (636) 349-0303 or toll-free (800) 727-9673. Internet address: www.joycemeyer.org Enjoying Everyday Life is a registered trademark of Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc. [J] is also a registered trademark of Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc. Resource prices are in U.S. Funds unless otherwise noted.
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Share your encouragement!
Order online 24/7 at joycemeyer.org or by phone at (800) 727-9673 or (636) 349-0303. Most major credit cards accepted. See enclosed form for details. Discounted offers expire February 28, 2015 (while supplies last) and are not available at conferences. Special offers cannot be combined for additional discounts; some offers may not be available outside the U.S. All prices are subject to change.
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PHOTOGRAPHERS David Dobson Kelly McClure Chad Spickler SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGES 11 - Evgeny Atamanenko 12 - Balazs Kovacs Images 16, 29 - ekler 18 - bioraven
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JOYCE MEYER is one of the world’s leading practical Bible teachers and travels the country and the world conducting conferences. She has written 100 inspirational books and her Enjoying Everyday Life® radio and television programs are broadcast all over the world.
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In Canada: Publications Mail Agreement No. 41709522 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Joyce Meyer Ministries Canada P.O. Box 7700 Vancouver, BC V6B 4E2 (800) 868-1002 cpcreturns@wdsmail.com
DAVE MEYER is Joyce’s husband and Vice President of Joyce Meyer Ministries. His passion is to share about this country’s rich Christian heritage and motivate people to get involved by praying, learning about the issues, and taking action.
DAVID L. MEYER is CEO of Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions. He oversees the ministry’s international and field offices, foreign broadcasts, and coordinates humanitarian aid and international festivals. His travels for Christ have taken him to more than 150 nations.
GINGER STACHE is an award-winning TV producer and Chief Media Officer of Joyce Meyer Ministries. She has traveled to many nations with her passion to help others and share the love of God with them.
We Are Committed to Financial Accountability
ACCOUNTABILITY At Joyce Meyer Ministries, we want you to be confident your gifts are being used in the best way possible. That’s why we are accredited by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability.
FINANCIAL PRACTICE
Joyce Meyer Ministries is voluntarily audited each year by an independent public accounting firm.
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I remember as a young boy my parents bringing all of us children to the nursing home each week to visit the elderly.
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FOR
MISSIONS THE POWER OF PARTNERING TOGETHER TO REACH A WORLD IN NEED
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It’s that heart for people— that passion to reach as many as we can with the love and message of Christ—that has set the groundwork for everything we do through Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Today, we have many incredible friends and partners who share this vision, and together we are literally reaching millions around the world. This includes one program that is close to my heart: Each week, our teams visit more than 800 people in nursing homes and senior care centers.
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But my heart for helping people can be traced directly back to my mom and dad. For as long as I can remember, they’ve looked for ways to help those in need. I’ve watched them cry with compassion for the homeless, hungry and mistreated…then do something about it.
We continually saw their genuine love and concern, and it’s an example we’ll never forget.
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People often ask me where I get my passion for missions. First and foremost, it is God’s calling for my life— I truly can’t imagine doing anything else.
H E A R T
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BY DAVID L. MEYER
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You’re providing food and shelter for children living on the streets of Madagascar.
TOGETHER WE ARE BETTER We learned a long time ago that we can’t be experts at everything. So we look for partnerships with organizations and people who have dedicated their lives to reaching a particular region. And when we join forces, it allows us all to do so much more than we could ever do on our own.
David and Shelly Meyer hand out gifts of food in Madagascar. More than 30,000 children attended our outreach this past June.
FIND A NEED AND MEET IT We have a simple philosophy: Find a need and meet it. If we believe we can relieve someone’s pain for even a short period of time, then we try to help. This means if a person is hungry, we feed them. If they need medical care, we treat them. If a disaster has stolen all they own, we try to help them get back on their feet. And if someone is a victim of the horrors of sexual exploitation, we try to rescue them...and help them begin a new life.
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The Bible makes it clear that we have a responsibility to care for the poor and reach out to those in need. Just look at Jesus. He spent a lot of time with people who needed His help…people who others thought weren’t worthy of His time. And if it matters to Him, then it should matter to us!
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Inevitably, as we focus on meeting people’s needs, they want to know why we’re being so good to them…and it opens the door for us to share the Gospel.
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Through the years, I’ve seen just about every approach to reaching people for the Lord, and each can bring a degree of success. But the truth is people are ultimately reached because they believe you love and care about them.
For instance, our partnership with Scott Norling, a missionary in India for more than 25 years, has allowed us to broadcast our TV program in 29 languages there, feed nearly 9,000 children a day, and operate a hospital for those who can’t afford medical care. In Ethiopia, we’ve joined forces with International Crisis Aid to regularly provide food and medicines to more than 200 families. We also help rescue young women from human trafficking and help fund homes for their rehabilitation. Through one of our newer partnerships with Kelimahefa and a group of churches in Madagascar, this past June we held a special event in that nation, providing food, basic necessities and the Gospel message to more than 30,000 children who are living on the streets. We also teamed up with Empowerment Advocates International to dedicate a brand new Hope Center, which will serve as a feeding center and overnight shelter for those at risk. (See page 15.)
“ PEOPLE ARE ULTIMATELY REACHED BECAUSE THEY BELIEVE YOU LOVE AND CARE ABOUT THEM.
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Nursing Home Outreach Director Rita Evering prays with a resident of a senior care center.
And these are just a few of the dynamic partnerships that God has made possible! In many ways, the phrase, “Together, we are better!” has become my motto. Because no matter how great a ministry is or how much influence it has, no organization can specialize in every area. That’s why we all need each other. When we all pool our talents, God not only gets in the middle of our efforts, He also gets the credit for the outcome.
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THE POWER OF DOING OUR PART When you look at the incredible need all around the world, it can be so overwhelming that you’re tempted to think, No matter what I do, it’s not going to make a difference. I felt this way years ago, and the Lord clearly spoke to me and said, “I am not asking you to solve all of the issues in the world. But I am asking you to help those I place in front of you.”
India: Hand of Hope provided basic necessities in the wake of Cyclone Phailin in 2013.
We’re only responsible to do our part. As we take steps of obedience and do what we can, then God adds His part and, together, we make a huge difference in the world. The friends and partners of Joyce Meyer Ministries are the perfect example… Everywhere we travel, my wife, Shelly, and I think about your generous support. We wish you could see what we see…and experience firsthand what your support is accomplishing. Why? Because God takes what you give, blesses it, multiplies it, then uses it to transform people’s lives.
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And in the end, that’s what really matters. It’s all about helping people.
joycemeyer.org/Iwill
Watch the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast November 3-7 for inspiring stories of how you’re helping people around the world through Joyce Meyer Ministries Hand of Hope outreaches. Check your local TV listing for stations.
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to give your special gift today
TV Schedule
For stations and program times in your area, check your local TV listing or visit www.joycemeyer.org/tvlistings. Watch the Enjoying Everyday Life broadcast anytime you like at www.joycemeyer.org. Schedules are subject to change. *TBN will receive alternate programming.
DAILY BROADCAST PROGRAMS AIR DAILY, MONDAY - FRIDAY
November NOV 3 - 7
OVERCOMING INSECURITY
Travel to Tulsa where thousands of families in need received free groceries, children’s bikes, shoes, diapers and encouragement from Joyce, and then head to Chicago where hundreds of children went home with full backpacks ready for the new school year.*
ATTITUDES THAT KEEP YOU HAPPY
NOV 16 -22
WORDS OF LIFE
LIVING TO LOVE
FIGHT LIKE A CHRISTIAN It’s important to learn how to respond to anger. Watch this week as Joyce shares encouraging teachings about how to walk in peace.
NOV 23 -29 MAKING GOD’S WORDS OUR WORDS
December
Through teaching and a question and answer session, Joyce explains what the Bible says about our words and how they can be used to help us every day.
DEC 1 – 5
NOV 30 - D EC 6
KNOWING GOD
Join Joyce Monday and Tuesday, as she shares how to experience a more personal relationship with God. Wednesday,* take a trip into the Peruvian Amazon. Then Thursday and Friday, Joyce teaches about getting from brokenness to wholeness.
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MULTIPLY HOPE
NOV 17 – 21
Understanding God’s love for us helps us love others. Monday-Thursday, find out how to be aware of others and the importance of putting them first. Friday, Pastor Ed Young joins Joyce to talk about relationships.
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NOV 9 -15
Watch this week as the practical needs of people are being met in Chicago, Tulsa, and across the U.S. through the domestic outreaches of Joyce Meyer Ministries.*
NOV 24 – 28
DEC 8 – 12
WONDERFULLY MADE
Monday and Tuesday, hear about the difficult lessons God taught Joyce and how they’ve transformed her. Wednesday, she walks you through a study of Psalm 37. Then Thursday and Friday, be encouraged by Joyce’s teaching about God’s love for us.
DEC 15 – 19
HOW TO MAINTAIN A GOOD ATTITUDE
Cultivating healthy attitudes is important. Monday and Tuesday, Joyce answers your questions about maintaining a good attitude. Then Wednesday and Thursday, she teaches about developing a patient attitude. And Friday Joyce opens the sensitive issue of teen suicide.
DEC 22 – 26 Magenta
God wants us to be confident, bold and fearless! This week, learn about developing a closer, more intimate relationship with God to help overcome the insecurities holding us back.
Watch Monday-Thursday and learn how to draw on the Holy Spirit’s wisdom, guidance and strength every day, with Priscilla Shirer joining Joyce on Wednesday. Then Friday,* Joyce shares life-changing stories from Namibia, Africa, plus, Evangelist Rienhard Bonnke joins her.
Joyce teaches about making God’s words our words with a question and answer session on Monday and Tuesday.* Then Wednesday, see breathtaking stories from a recent trip to Madagascar, Africa. Thursday and Friday, Joyce talks about confronting your past.
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PROGRAMS AIR ONE DAY A WEEK
NOV 2-8
SHARING CHRIST-LOVING PEOPLE
NOV 10 - 14
WEEKLY BROADCAST
LIVING A FULFILLING LIFE
Visit Namibia, Africa, and see how Joyce Meyer Ministries, Hand of Hope is helping educate and feed hundreds of children who will impact the world. Wednesday, Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke joins Joyce to discuss the gift of salvation. Also learn how to pursue peace and joy God’s way.
DEC 29 – JAN 2
HAVING A DREAM FOR YOUR LIFE
You can take steps toward your dream. Monday-Thursday, Joyce encourages you to follow the dream God put in your heart. Then Friday, she issues you a challenge, which will likely change your life.
FREE FIND NEW MESSAGES DAILY. ENJOYING EVERYDAY LIFE PODCASTS WWW.JOYCEMEYER.ORG/PODCASTS
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A NEW WAY OF LIVING We need to receive forgiveness as a gift. Joyce shares the message of salvation and how to experience the fullness of your new life in Christ.
D EC 7-13
FINDING ANSWERS Our world is complicated, but the Gospel is simple. Join Joyce and Christian philosopher Ravi Zacharias as they discuss how Scripture answers some of life’s most difficult questions.
D EC 14-20
MAKING RIGHT CHOICES Find out how making better decisions can bring more joy to your life.
D EC 21-27
CHOOSE BOLDNESS OVER FEAR Joyce shows, through God’s Word, how we can learn to confront our fears and live boldly, enjoying the life He planned for us.
D EC 28-JA N 4
BECOMING ONE WITH GOD Want to learn how to have a closer relationship with God and experience all He has for you? Discover how you can become one with God.
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TREASURING GOD’S GOODNESS I N Y O U R E V E R Y D AY L I F E
By Joyce Meyer
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ost people would agree that we have a lot to be thankful for. After all, many of us live a lifestyle full of conveniences. We live in comfortable homes, wear nice clothes, and have reliable transportation. We have no shortage of clean water or healthy food. We have access to quality healthcare and education, and basically live a good life with a lot of freedom, safety and security.
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While it’s easy to take these wonderful blessings for granted—and sometimes get into the bad habit of focusing on what we don’t have—millions of people around the world live without the basic necessities of life.
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Giving thanks to God NOT ONLY HELPS US FULLY REALIZE
HOW HE’S WORKING in our lives, it gives us a
NEW PERSPECTIVE—OUR MIND IS RENEWED,
is improved, and we are FILLED WITH JOY.
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OUR ATTITUDE
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One of the best things we can do throughout the day is praise God while we work. No matter what you’re trying to build—your home, your marriage, your business, financial security, or even an exercise plan— you can worship God as you work. Another thing we can learn to do is enjoy the seemingly insignificant blessings that we often overlook... little things like getting dressed, driving to work, going to the grocery store, sending emails, and hundreds of other routine activities of life. It’s where the majority of our time goes, so why not learn to appreciate and enjoy them?
THE TRUTH IS, GOD DOESN’T NEED our praise or approval. We don’t have to thank Him in order to make Him happy, to satisfy some spiritual requirement, or to try to get Him to do something else for us. Giving thanks throughout the day is simply a way to show God how grateful we are for who He is. Regularly giving thanks to God not only helps us fully realize how He’s working in our lives, it gives us a new perspective—our mind is renewed, our attitude is improved, and we are filled with joy (see Psalm 16:11). I like to think of praise as a prayer that naturally flows out of us. It’s a thankful heart attitude that says, “I love You, Lord. I worship You. I can’t do this without You. I need Your help today.”
God…it’s good for us!
Each moment that we’re given is a precious gift from God. We can choose to have a thankful attitude and live each moment full of joy… simply because God is good.
Did you know that when we give God praise, it brings us closer in our relationship to Him? The Bible says
This article is based on material from Joyce’s newest devotional, The Power of Being Thankful.
CHOOSING AN ATTITUDE OF THANKSGIVING not only honors
Want to learn more about the power of attitude? Watch the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast December 15-18. Check your local TV listing for stations and program times in your area or visit joycemeyer.org/tvlistings
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Begin each day with a heart of thanks. BLACK
how blessed we are! Maintaining an attitude of gratitude is something we need to do on purpose.
We need to praise God because we love Him. It actually draws us closer to Him, which helps us hear the Word clearly, receive it, and hold on to it through faith.
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At my conferences, I make sure to be in the service as soon as the praise and worship begins because I love to be in God’s presence. In fact, before I speak to an audience, I make sure I have entered into praise and worship. I want to fi x my thoughts on God, thank Him for what He’s done in my life and for the words He’s giving me to speak, and I want to give Him praise for everything else He’s going to do.
The Power of Being Thankful 365-Day Devotional by Joyce Meyer
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Think about it: Those without a place to live would love to have a house to clean, yet a homeowner is more likely to complain about cleaning their home. A person without any transportation dreams of having a car to drive, while someone who owns a car is more likely to complain about the cost of regular maintenance and unexpected repairs.
that God inhabits the praises of His people (see Psalm 22:3).
$17 / $22 Canada
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ENJOYING EVERYDAY LIFE joycemeyer.org
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I’ll never forget the time one of our sons went on a weekend outreach where a team of people were doing ministry with the homeless. It was obvious that the experience touched him deeply because he called me and said, “If I ever complain again, please knock me down for being so stupid!” He was appalled over the things he had murmured about in the past once he saw, by comparison, how some people were living.
GOD’S
word
MADE PERSONAL
Exercising Gratitude
One way to increase our level of gratitude is to pay attention to our thoughts and words throughout the day. How much thanksgiving do you express? Do you complain about things? Or are you thankful? It’s a challenge to be grateful in every situation, but it will increase your level of intimacy with God and bring more joy and satisfaction to your life. 1. Read these Psalms of thanksgiving: 30, 32, 34, 100, 107, 116, and 118. Let the words stir up a spirit of praise within you. Write down the passages that most relate to your relationship with God, and give Him thanks for the good things He’s done in your life.
O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever! – Psalm 107:1
2. Think about the kinds of things God does for you that are easily taken for granted. Write them down here. As you go about your day, make a point of noticing the little things, and tell Him how much they mean to you.
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3. Have you ever thanked God in advance for His goodness before receiving the answer to your prayers? If your prayer has yet to be answered, take another step of faith…give thanks today! Write God a thank-you note for His faithfulness in that situation.
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Keep It Up! If we are regularly praising, worshiping and thanking God, we will leave no room for grumbling and complaining. If you’re in a tough situation, be expectant of what God is going to do. In the meantime, take notice of how God is working in your life right now and pray a prayer of thanksgiving…straight from your heart.
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Jesus
LOVES The Little Children
SHARING HIS LOVE, SAVING LIVES & EXPRESSING OUR GRATITUDE
BY GINGER STACHE
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Gratitude reveals itself
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in many forms. The typical expression comes through simple words: “Thank you.” We at Joyce Meyer Ministries are honored to hear many of those “thank yu’s” as God touches people’s lives through the sharing of His Word. Gratitude flows from a changed life.
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There are also many other faces of “Thank You,” and a recent opportunity to share Christ and serve others in two African nations taught us much about the beauty of gratitude.
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OUR FIRST STOP WAS MADAGASCAR, an island off the continent’s southeast coast. Madagascar has an extremely large population of children living in the street. These children live in deplorable conditions. They beg for money, scavenge for food and fight for a spot to sleep on extremely dangerous streets. Each day is a struggle of survival for these kids and it is evident by the deep sorrow in their eyes. We went out late one night and I met a family of six brothers and sisters. They were very guarded and hesitant to talk at first, but when we assured them that we didn’t want anything from them, they began to open up. They showed me how they find a spot on the street to sleep each night, lay cardboard down for a bed and drape filthy plastic over the top like a tent to protect them from the weather. They told me about the dangers they face each night. They take turns sleeping so they can watch each other’s backs. Tragically, many children are picked up right off the street and trafficked into even worse, unthinkable situations.
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After some time, when we said good-bye there was an obvious expression of Thank You even though the words were never said—an unspoken gratitude for taking the time to listen, for showing interest in them in a world where most people consider them trash to be swept away.
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NAMIBIA
MADAGASCAR
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“What a difference a good meal and consistent expressions of love make!”
AFTER MADAGASCAR we travelled to the country of Namibia: from the jungle to the desert. Namibia is
Through tears she told me that there are no words to express her gratitude to you, the partners of Joyce Meyer Ministries, who provide the daily food and spiritual curriculum for these children. Perhaps some of the most rewarding “Thank Yous” of all contain no words...they simply flow from the abundance of the heart.
See for yourself! Watch the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast November 19 and December 22 to experience all of the sights, sounds, and incredible outreaches in Madagascar and Namibia. Check your local TV listing for stations and program times in your area or visit joycemeyer.org/tvlistings.
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This beautiful “Thank You” came in the rhythmic breathing of sleeping children—no fear of being forced from their spot or someone hurting them in the night. The subsequent expression was our own gratitude to an awesome God, overflowing in all of our hearts as we just watched them sleep. This was one of “Thank You’s” quiet moments, soft yet powerful, and I will always carry it with me.
The next morning we returned and the children told me, “Oh Ginger, we have missed you so much!” What better expression of love and gratitude could I ever need? I spoke with their teacher, Miss Erica, about the difference she sees in these kids from the time they come to the program hungry and frightened to today’s group of happy, loving children. What a difference a good meal and consistent expressions of love make!
Yes, “Thank you” comes in many forms—in words, smiles, laughter and tears. Each one enriches our lives just a little bit more. And we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for playing a vital role in each and every one.
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After a day of games and merriment, the sun began to set and we laid out mats, pillows and blankets for some of the smallest children to rest. It was the first time these sweet little ones had ever laid their heads on a soft pillow or cuddled beneath a clean blanket. Almost immediately they slipped into a peaceful slumber.
Arriving at the little school where the children spend their day, we were greeted with smiles, waves, songs and many hugs. Each one was anxious to tell us about themselves and immediately took us into their little family. We parted that day with a new “Thank You”: a huge group hug from dozens of children, the kind that pulls you to the ground in sheer delight.
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When the children first entered the new building, there was a joyous eruption of laughter and cheering as they ran into the first place they could ever consider their own. It was a fantastic moment. Sometimes “Thank You” comes in ruckus shouts of pure joy.
very different than Madagascar but also faces severe poverty, and many families simply cannot afford to feed their children. Hand of Hope has been feeding children here for some time and teaching them about the love of Jesus. Meeting them today we found some of the happiest children we have encountered anywhere.
joycemeyer.org/Iwill to give your special gift today
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Through our missions arm, Hand of Hope, we have been feeding many of these children regularly but felt a strong burden to do more. So we’ve been working on a project to provide many of them with a safe place to sleep. We call it the Hope Center, and the time had come for the grand opening—a very exciting day for all.
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Give a special gift today.
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Help rescue the woman who was forced into human trafficking. Or the elderly man who so desperately needs medical attention. Help feed the little boy who would otherwise go home hungry, or quench the thirst of a small village with fresh, clean water. Or help wherever the need is greatest.
joycemeyer.org/Iwill
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(800) 868-1002
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A M E R I C A AT I T S
best
Sweet Liberty HOW IT CHANGED THE HEARTS OF MEN...THEN SPARKED A REVOLUTION
BY DAVE MEYER
LIBERTY. It’s one of the greatest words I know— and for Americans, it’s come to represent so many of the good things this nation stands for. Millions have fought for it. Many have even died for it. Certainly, Americans have enjoyed the blessings of liberty for generations. But what, really, is liberty? And where does it come from? Let’s Go Back to the Garden… Contrary to popular belief, liberty is not “made in America”—it is the gift of Almighty God.
When the Holy Spirit comes into the heart of man, that man is liberated. Likewise, when the Spirit of the Lord comes into a nation, that nation is liberated. There is a direct relationship. The degree to which God is infused into society—through its people, laws, and institutions—is the same degree
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So, spiritual liberty ultimately produces political liberty. Conversely, spiritual bondage produces external political bondage.
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When you think about it, this makes perfect sense. Just look at 2 Corinthians 3:17. It says, …where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (NKJV).
they will experience freedom in every realm…civil, religious, economic, etc.
Keeping Liberty Alive — Our Constitution is one of the most highly regarded documents in history. It was birthed out of America’s new-found freedom…and written to safeguard that freedom for years to come.
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Liberty always moves from the internal to the external. It must first begin in the heart of man, and then it will naturally express itself externally in all aspects of society.
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It goes all the way back to the garden. When God made man, He made Him perfect in His image. He gave him liberty and the ability to govern himself and everything else He created.
A M E R I C A AT I T S
best “They carried liberty in their hearts. In truth, the “revolution” began long before any of the fighting ever started.”
Yet our Founders knew this document alone couldn’t save us… Benjamin Franklin notoriously stated that, “A nation of well-informed men who have been taught to know and prize the rights which God has given them cannot be enslaved. It is in the region of ignorance that tyranny begins.” The Founders knew the future success of our new republic would hinge entirely on adhering to the biblical principles it was founded upon…then teaching these principles of freedom to the next generation. After all, this is what fueled the Revolution to begin with… .
Consider the Source It didn’t happen by chance. Discover God’s fingerprints on the founding and establishing of this great nation.
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That’s why developing a foundation of liberty became a high priority for early Americans. Our young nation saw that almost every child was educated, and biblical principles were passed on to succeeding generations through lessons in the home, church and school.
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Pilgrims, Puritans and Quakers—inspired and compelled by God—sought after a land where they could educate their children, free from ungodly influences. They carried liberty in their hearts. In truth, the “revolution” began long before any of the fighting ever started.
America’s Providential History Paperback by Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. McDowell
Life Before “the Separation” Americans today have become accustomed to an increased separation between God and government. But in Colonial days, it was quite the opposite. Ministers were involved in every aspect of public affairs. They colonized
Going back to the 1600s, ministers even formed the very first “grammar schools” for children. They also founded the nation’s first universities. Harvard, for example, was founded by Reverend John Harvard in 1638. The official governing rules required both the President and Professors to “open and explain the Scriptures to his pupils with integrity and faithfulness.” Ministers used every opportunity possible—from the pulpit, to the classroom, to even government and legislation—to educate people in the principles of liberty. I love how David Gregg describes the early American republic. He says, “The people made the laws, and the churches made the people.” Wow! While schools were established to train new generations in a biblical worldview, the clergy continually clarified and applied that worldview to issues that faced the colonists. Now Is the Time — Abraham Lincoln once said, “The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next.” Friends, we have a responsibility to stand up for godly principles…and take every opportunity to cultivate freedom in the hearts of the people in this nation. After all, it’s something the signers, colonists, and other great Americans through the years have fought to purchase and even lost their lives to protect. It is our inalienable right… It’s sweet liberty. And it’s our duty to preserve it for future generations.
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and formed many of our states, they wrote our laws and constitutions, and they served as judges and lawyers.
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EMMANUEL G
S OD WI T H U
A Relationship with Jesus Is the Greatest Gift of All BY JOYCE MEYER
This article is adapted from Joyce’s special Christmas book, The Gift
— Matthew 1:23 KJV
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In fact, He wanted to be with us so strongly that He sent His Son, a part of Himself, to physically walk the earth. That baby in the manger was God and He is still with us today.
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BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD, AND SHALL BRING FORTH A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME EMMANUEL, WHICH BEING INTERPRETED IS, GOD WITH US.
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od has a beautiful plan for your life. And He wants to lead you each step of the way. That is why one of the names of God, Emmanuel, means “God with us.” He wants to be intimately involved in our lives—to know His voice and follow Him.
When I think about the person I am today, I am amazed how God has changed me—and I’m so grateful for the ways He allows me to help others now.
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There were times when I came very close to giving up along the way. But God was faithful to be with me, helping
me and keeping me going on those days. I know that apart from Him, I can do nothing, and in Him, I have everything I need to live the abundant life He gives me in Christ. It is the same for you. You can all have the strength and confidence to keep going because of what Jesus has done for you, because God is with you every day.
Receive the gift of Jesus.
Have you noticed that when God speaks to your heart, He only has caring and encouraging things to say? He never asks us, “Why aren’t you more like this person?” or “When are you ever going to amount to something?” That’s because in Christ, God sees you as perfect. Many people don’t realize God sees them that way. In fact, if you have ever been hurt or rejected, you may have thought that God is mad at you and doesn’t really listen to your prayers. But that is not true. The reason we have Christmas is proof of that. Jesus came, He lived, He died, and He rose again so we can have a real relationship with our Father God.
Let this be God’s Christmas gift to you: Take a step of faith and believe that God loves you intimately. He has a great plan for your life, and His promises are true. Simply pray: “Father, I believe You love me and sent Your son Jesus to die for me. I want to learn how to live the new life that You have promised me. I receive You now, Jesus, and I give myself to You. Please forgive me of my sins and help me to start this new, incredible life with You.”
God loves His children unconditionally. In Christ, you are His own special child. Ephesians 1:5 says that God decided to adopt you because it gave Him great pleasure (NLT). You can’t earn or buy His love. It is simply a gift He wants you to receive because you are so dear to Him—you are His child!
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Romans 8:35-39 tells us that God loves us because He wants to, and nothing in creation can separate us from His love. I encourage you to be bold enough to believe that God let Jesus come to earth and go through everything He went through just for you—because you’re that precious and that valuable to Him.
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—2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 NKJV
Unwrap peace, joy, hope, love... The Gift Hardcover by Joyce Meyer
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Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
$14 / $18 Canada
The moment you receive Christ as your Savior, you receive His righteousness, holiness and peace in the Holy Spirit. Everything He is suddenly applies to you! Open your heart to Him today and begin a new life as a brand new creation. Let old things pass away…and experience the new. If you’ve received Christ today, we want to know about it! Visit joycemeyer.org/salvation and request a free copy of Joyce’s book A New Way of Living. If you need prayer for anything, visit joycemeyer.org/prayer.
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RECEIVING
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GOD’S ACCEPTANCE
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YOU CAN SUCCEED IN LIFE, N O M AT T E R W H AT P EO P L E T H I N K BY J OYC E M EY E R
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developed a serious eating disorder that had required hospitalization.
hen a person lives afraid that someone might disapprove of or reject them, this fear seeps into the very pores of who they are. But the Bible gives great hope to the person who has been rejected and unwanted: Jesus understands that pain because He experienced it Himself. And in His final moments on Earth, Jesus told His disciples that they are never alone. Though others might reject them, He never would.
I asked if he struggled with insecurity, and she told me he was in a band and began to admire the lead singer and compare himself to him. For no apparent reason he became afraid that the time might come when they would not want him in the band. Although he was not overweight at all and very handsome, he decided he should be as thin as the lead singer, so he started down the path of eating and then forcing himself to vomit, so he did not retain the calories in the food.
I recently met a woman who expressed her gratitude for our television program, Enjoying Everyday Life. She said the Word of God she received from it brought healing to her family. She went on to tell me that her son had
This eating disorder has serious side effects if it continues over a period
All of these problems began with a young man’s fear of being unwanted and rejected. It wasn’t even a reality, just a fear! Although he didn’t know how to at the time, all he would have had to do was resist the fear in the very beginning and he could have avoided all the pain he had personally as well as the pain caused to his family. Fear is indeed a formidable enemy and one that we must learn to confront.
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We were designed and created by God for acceptance and not for rejection. Because it is an inherent need in us, we crave it, and we need to live in an atmosphere of acceptance in order to grow and make progress. What if we are rejected and unwanted by the people in our lives? Although it is painful, we can still choose to receive God’s acceptance. God wants you! God is the giver of life, and He has created each of us carefully and purposely. No matter who rejects us, God accepts us. And that is enough to enable us to be successful in life. Jesus was rejected and despised, but He focused on God’s love for Him. We should focus on God’s acceptance rather than people’s rejection. What we focus on becomes the largest thing in our life. He was despised and rejected and forsaken by men, a Man of sorrows and pains, and acquainted with grief and sickness; and like One from Whom men hide their faces, He was despised,
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of time, and it did have devastating effects on this young man. Sadly, the stress from his situation ended up causing his mother to have a posttraumatic nerve disorder, and she needed counseling and medical help.
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and we did not appreciate His worth or have any esteem for Him (Isaiah 53:3). Jesus came to help people and yet they hated Him without a cause. Was it painful to Him? I imagine it was because He had emotions just as we do, and yet, He did not let the rejection derail Him from the purpose for which He was sent. Satan launches attacks of rejection
What if I believe that God loves me and I am only deceiving myself? What if I believe I am totally accepted by God and it is really just my imagination? It almost seemed too good to be true. But, we find our proof in God’s Word. Sometimes, even after we decide to believe we are accepted and wanted by God, our feelings don’t agree yet. We must learn to believe what God says more than we believe how we feel.
“GOD HAS ALREADY PROVIDED THE TOTAL ACCEPTANCE WE CRAVE, AND ALL WE NEED TO DO IS RECEIVE IT BY FAITH.”
ORDER NOW! joycemeyer.org/courageous
God has already provided the total acceptance we crave, and all we need to do is receive it by faith. Are you afraid to believe it might be true? I know that I was for a long, long time. I thought,
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Adapted from “Living Courageously” by Joyce Meyer. Copyright © 2014 by Joyce Meyer. Reprinted by permission of FaithWords, a division of Hachette Book Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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We can trust God to give us the acceptance we desire instead of compromising our values and making unwise choices in order to get it. I have experienced what seems like more than my fair share of rejection in my life. In my childhood from people I trusted and loved, and later as a woman being used by God in ministry. Some of my most intense pain has come from those rejections, but I have recovered by applying the very same principles I am sharing with you.
We are made acceptable to God through Christ (Ephesians 2:6). God doesn’t love us because we deserve it, but because He is kind and gracious and wants to love us (Ephesians 2:4-5). The craving we feel for acceptance can only be truly met in Jesus. He doesn’t give it only when we are good and withdraw it when we are not. God accepts us because we believe in His Son Jesus Christ, and not because of what we do or don’t do (John 3:18). You are loved, accepted and wanted!
Living Courageously Hardcover by Joyce Meyer
$24 / $31 Canada
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against us in the hope that the pain of it will weaken us to the point that we will give up or isolate ourselves. However, when we understand what Satan is trying to do and why, we can more aggressively resist him and have victory instead of being the victim.
Also available in Spanish (Paperback) $14
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Look for it wherever books are sold.
Deep in the
HEART PERU OF
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B R I N G I N G F R E E M E D I CA L A N D D E N TA L CA R E TO T H E A M A ZO N J U N G L E
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BY CHAD TRAFTON
The village of Mazán sits deep in the heart of Peru. It’s one of hundreds of small communities lining the Amazon River. Here, amidst the dense trees, native birds provide a constant soundtrack. It’s the jungle, and every few minutes you seemingly stumble upon something you’ve never seen before. But here in Mazán, there’s one thing you can’t always find—a doctor. This week, through the support of our friends and partners, Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions has teamed up with Camino de Vida church and Abundant Life Ministries to conduct a free, week-long medical and dental clinic in Mazán. Volunteer doctors, chiropractors, dentists, and nurses have flown from around the world—at their own cost—to donate their time and expertise. By 8 am, our team has transformed a local grade school into a fully functional clinic—complete with several examining rooms and a pharmacy—and is ready to see their first patients...and there will be no shortage.
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Just outside the main gates, more than a hundred people from Mazán and other villages wait in line, most sitting on wood bleachers. Some have traveled more than four hours by boat. Many have even spent the night in one of the classrooms, determined not to miss their opportunity for the medical/dental care.
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CELMIRA SITS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CROWD, patiently waiting like all the others. Her grandson, Maximo, waits with her. She looks concerned, and I soon find out why. Fifteen days ago, she began going blind in one eye. For her, this clinic is a godsend. She waits…and hopes someone up ahead has an answer.
“You’re too sweet,” Dr. Bahureksa says, his bedside manner eliciting a smile. “Your blindness is from the diabetes, so we’re going to give you some good medicine. You need to be on this medication all of the time.”
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She eventually gets checked in and sits down with Dr. Budi Bahureksa, one of our volunteer physicians. It doesn’t take long for him to pinpoint the problem—her blood sugar registers 511, at least 400 points above normal.
He gives Celmira a prescription, which she fills at our pharmacy, two doors down. Thankfully, her blindness can be reversed…they caught it just in time.
2014-15 TRIPS* Samoa Dec. 4–13, 2014
Sri Lanka
Jan. 22–Feb. 1, 2015
Niger
Feb. 5–15, 2015
nge. We *Schedule is subject to cha team tal /den ical med a e will hav e each traveling around the glob in with us month, so please check ortunities periodically for more opp
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to serve.
Come be part of a oncein-a-lifetime experience! Lives will be changed,
including your own.
For more details, visit joycemeyer.org/ medicalmissions. You can also email us at medicalmissions@joycemeyer. org or call (800) 707-7877 ext 3218.
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Contact Us
The pharmacy is filled with others just like her…a steady stream of people eager to trade their prescriptions for medicines. Volunteer Nurse Kelly Johnston helps keep the operation running smoothly. It’s her fifth medical/dental trip with Joyce Meyer Ministries Hand of Hope, and she thrills at another chance to see the faces of relieved mothers and children. “We give them a little bit of hope,” she says. “It’s a little thing for us, but it’s not little to them. Here they have no options.” Texas-native Nurse Mickey Brown agrees: “We’re amazed at how God touches their lives. It’s so fun to be able to do all this…it’s like Christmas.” And it looks like Christmas. Heaping piles of antibiotics and other drugs are all neatly stacked and organized on long tables, ready to be dispensed. The team has come prepared, knowing for the most part what illnesses to expect. Here in Mazán, more times than not, they simply learn to live with the pain. But today they don’t have to. SIXTY-YEAR-OLD BASILIO is here to support his wife Mirza, who is getting her eyes examined. Other than a lingering headache, he feels fine, but figures it can’t hurt to get checked out. Besides, he’s hoping to maybe receive a pair of glasses to help him read his Bible. A couple hours later, he gets a diagnosis he never expected.
For the next hour, doctors run more tests, settle upon the right medications, and educate him all along the way. In the end, Basilio is viewed as a success— a disaster averted. Basilio exits the pharmacy carrying an array of medications…and proudly displays his new pair of glasses. Icing on the cake. This sweet, humble man thanks us over and over again, and he thanks God for such an opportunity. He explains how missionaries came in 1979 to host a revival meeting. At 22, he attended the service and gave his life to the Lord. Now, thirty-five years later, another “divine appointment” has saved his life again. “I am so thankful to God and for all of you. Today, I have received a huge blessing. I don’t have words…I am just so thankful.” Hour by hour, others just like Celmira and Basilio are signed in, diagnosed, and treated. And with all of the medical success stories, you can almost overlook what’s quietly happening next door to the pharmacy. Almost. A MAKESHIFT SIGN OVER THE DOOR READS, “CLINICA DEL ALMA,” spanish for “Clinic for the Soul.” Like the pharmacy, every patient stops here on their way out. They are warmly welcomed by ministry workers who share the Gospel message and offer to pray for them. “We let them know that Jesus loves them so much that He sent a group of
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“He has very high blood pressure… life-threatening for stroke,” says Nurse Anesthetist Jessica Cabrera. “He doesn’t look as sick as he is inside. It is critical.”
His blood pressure is 180 over 105 to be exact, triggering extreme hypertension. And that’s not all. He also suffers from diabetes, which multiplies the danger. Cabrera says in most cities he would be rushed to the ER. But that’s not an option in Mazán. For Basilio, this clinic is his ER.
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ECUADOR
6 DAYS IN PERU
MAZÁN
DAY
1
IQUITOS
GRACE HOUSE
ZUNGARO COCHA
LIMA, JMM helped fund this women’s home for those recovering from emotional and physical abuse.
PUERTO ALMENDRA
BRAZIL DAY
2
LIMA
BACKPACK OUTREACH ZUNGARA COCHA You helped give away 500 backpacks full of school supplies to children in this jungle village. DAY
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CHURCH & WELL
BOLIVIA
DAY
ZUNGARA COCHA Grateful villagers and happy children enjoy the newly installed freshwater well.
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MEDICAL/DENTAL MAZÁN Before leaving the clinic, Celmira receives prayer, encouragement and the Gospel message.
DAY
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“Hand of Hope has a way of finding the poorest of the poor,” says Chris. “These
And, really, that’s what it’s all about— sharing Christ and loving people… in whatever order or way that works best. It’s the very heart of these medical/dental outreaches, and a passion shared by every volunteer, including Chris… “To be able to help people who can’t help themselves…you can’t ask for anything better in life.”
Take a trip into the Peruvian jungle! Watch the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast December 3 and discover the stories of hope you’ve made possible. Check your local TV listing for stations and program times in your area or visit joycemeyer.org/tvlistings.
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These encounters are more than a quick handshake. Most patients spend about 20 minutes listening, talking and eventually praying. It’s only Monday, but Chris says about sixty people have already accepted Christ.
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people aren’t used to having someone do something for them. It’s a great way for them to see what Christ is like.”
people from all around the world to bless them and help them,” says volunteer missionary Chris Miller. “We say, ‘Jesus wants to bless you because He loves you.’”
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CHURCH & WELL PUERTO ALMENDRA Met the congregation for Sunday service at their new church.
joycemeyer.org/Iwill to give your special gift today
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MEDICAL/DENTAL MAZÁN Basilio tries out his new glasses. For him, this day was a divine appointment.
Reach Volunteer nurse Rachel Milby checks a patient’s blood pressure at a medical/dental clinic in a remote Peru village, where health care is extremely hard to come by.
SHARE CHRIST,
LOVE
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At “Clinica Del Alma,” Spanish for “Clinic for the Soul,” ministry workers share the Gospel message and offer to pray for patients in Peru. Most patients spend about 20 minutes listening, talking and eventually praying during Joyce Meyer Ministries, Hand of Hope, medical/ dental outreaches.
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THANK YOU FOR 2014!
“A little bit of love can bring a lot of healing.” —JOYCE MEYER
God is love, and it’s His love—working in you and through you— that makes it possible for Joyce Meyer Ministries to reach out in big ways and small ways to help hurting people around the world and make their lives better. Here are some of the many
HUMAN TRAFFICKING RESCUE
MEDICAL/DENTAL MISSIONS
WATER RELIEF
PRISON MINISTRY
TV AND RADIO BROADCASTS
BOOK TRANSLATIONS
INNER CITY OUTREACH
CONFERENCES
CHILDREN’S HOMES
DISASTER RELIEF
MULTIPLY HOPE DONATIONS
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ways you’ve shared God’s love with others in the past year.
loving people all around the world.
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Thank you for sharing Christ and
Good Stuff INTERESTING BITS, MILESTONES & MORE
2014 HIGHLIGHTS
ONE If this many people came to Christ during our 2014 Conference Tour, it would be worth all the effort it took to pull it together. But thousands accepted Jesus at conferences this year.
Students registered to receive backpacks during the St. Louis Dream Center’s Annual Back 2 School Blast, while hearing about God’s love. Kids were also treated to free medical and dental care, food, entertainment and other fun activities. The St. Louis Dream Center, founded by Dave and Joyce in 2000, serves the city of St. Louis with more than 30 outreaches, in an area known for high crime rates, limited job opportunities and low household incomes.
of you chose to study the Bible each day and discover what God was saying to you—accepting Joyce’s 3030 Challenge to study God’s Word 30 minutes a day for 30 days. Jessica Olivera said studying, “seemed so complicated...but [taking the time] showed me how easy and how gratifying it is!” TO ALL OF OUR PARTICIPANTS: Congratulations for making the commitment!
NG SHARI T, CHRIS
LOVING E PEOPL
In the U.S.
3,376
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1,000
100,000 +
FIFTEEN
Outreaches were held across the U.S. in cities like Memphis, Minneapolis, Birmingham, St. Louis, Sacramento and Tulsa. People heard about Christ and His love was demonstrated by providing health care, groceries, shoes, diapers, and meeting many other needs, along with music, games for the kids, giveaways and fun for all.
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Bars of soap were among the tens of thousands of items donated by conference-goers to help people in need through our Multiply Hope conference outreaches. Thank-you notes flooded in from Winston-Salem, NC families of the incarcerated people who received toiletries through Multiply Hope. A big thanks to everyone who came to a conference to receive from God…and decided to give back.
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JOYCE MEYER CONFERENCES 2014
HOUSTON, TX joycemeyer.org/conference EEL 1114 32-35 P.indd 32
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UPCOMING CONFERENCE
NOV 13-15 LAKEWOOD CHURCH Schedule is subject to change.
9/10/14 8:55 AM
Nov/Dec 2014 E N J O Y I N G E V E R Y D AY L I F E
CELEBRATE HOMES FOR ORPHANS
NOVEMBER Orphan Month
This Child Knows You Care...
NOV. 11 Veterans Day Visit a veteran and honor them by asking them to share their story.
INDIA
Send a letter or care package to a current service member, in honor of a veteran.
But you, God...are the helper of the fatherless. —Psalm 10:14
SNAPSHOTS 1
2
3
4
Do something special for a deployed service member’s spouse.
NOV. 27 Thanksgiving Day Dress up your table: Make a tin can turkey centerpiece and stuff it with things you’re thankful for.
THE GREATEST GIFT
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
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Treat a military family to ice cream sundaes!
At just 2 years old, Dominique was found alone on the streets of India with a broken leg. But he’s getting lots of love and attention today. He was taken to one of our children’s homes—and now he’s healthy, vibrant and thriving. Thanks for joining with us to love orphans around the world!
*The St. Louis Dream Center is an inner-city outreach of Joyce Meyer Ministries.
1. Peruvian students received backpacks filled with notebooks, crayons and other fun surprises. 2. Children prepared for school at Hope Fest in Chicago, with free haircuts, medical and dental care, backpacks and more. 3. Kids in Tulsa, who could only dream of having a bike...experienced a dream come true. 4. More than 30,000 kids in Madagascar received food, clothing and toiletries, and enjoyed live performances at the national stadium.
“
Pure giving is one of the most beautiful things that we do... Let’s live in the spirit of Christmas all year round!” —JOYCE
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ENJOYING EVERYDAY LIFE joycemeyer.org
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GIVING MOMENTS made possible because of you!
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More than 500 turkeys were donated to lowincome families through the St. Louis Dream Center* last Thanksgiving.
A THOUGHT FROM JOYCE
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—LUKE 2:11 A reason to cheer: Your support helps feed 75,000 children each day of the year!
Nov/Dec 2014 E N J O Y I N G E V E R Y D AY L I F E
Good Stuff
CONTINUED
BECAUSE YOU CARE
CELEBRATE
Saluting our Service Men and Women
DEC. 25 Christmas
The average service member moves every 2-3 years, often creating stress and financial challenges, especially for families with young children. Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions has recently partnered with They Serve 2 to help make these transitions a little easier during the holiday season and throughout the year. To date, we’ve helped distribute more than 1,500 backpacks filled with school supplies to military children. “These families deal with the deployments, the constant moves, the separation, and sometimes the injury,” says They Serve 2 Founder Stacy Lindsey. “Just an act of kindness means a lot.”
Read about Jesus’ birth in Luke 2.
Share the importance of giving with kids—buy gifts for kids who may go without.
Wrap gifts for busy parents.
Grab a sled.
. PRAYER FOR MILITARY FAMILIES
INSPIRATION
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Lord, we lift up our military service men and women to you, and ask for your protection upon them. We also pray for their families, and the families of
PEACE
Exodus 14:14 Psalm 4:8 Isaiah 26:3 Isaiah 66:12-13 John 16:33 Philippians 4:6-7
those who gave their lives in service to our country. We pray that they would be richly blessed by your love this Christmas and always. Amen.
SCRIPTURES TO ENJOY DURING YOUR HOLIDAY DOWNTIME
THANKSGIVING
LOVE Jeremiah 31:3 John 15:12-13 Romans 8:35-39 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Ephesians 4:32 1 Peter 4:8
Psalm 9:1-2 Psalm 95:1-6 Psalm 105:1 Colossians 3:15-17 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Hebrews 13:15
JOY
Nehemiah 8:10 Psalm 16:11 Psalm 30 Isaiah 61:10 Psalm 126:3 Luke 2:10-11
HOPE Proverbs 3:5 Jeremiah 17:7 Jeremiah 29:11 Matthew 19:26 Romans 4:18-22 Romans 15:13
Say a prayer for military families who are missing loved ones during the holidays.
Visit a nursing home to talk and pray with residents.
Give a homemade gift: Decorate a ceramic mug with a scripture using an oil-based paint marker.
Spend time with a grieving family—enjoy a cookie decorating party or movie night.
Encouragement for your travels: The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:8 NIV
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 (800) 727-9673 // Canada (800) 868-1002
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Sept 17-19 ST. LOUIS
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Register Today! joycemeyer.org/lovelife
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YOUR JOURNEY AWAITS
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GET
JOYCE’S NEWEST BOOK, LIVING COURAGEOUSLY
We all have fears. But God wants to give you the strength to face them head-on. It may be fear of failure, rejection, loss of control—whatever has a grip on you, you can still triumph—just do it afraid. Say goodbye to fear and live courageously.
Living Courageously $24 Hardcover by Joyce Meyer
$31 Canada
Also available in Spanish (Paperback) $14 Look for it wherever books are sold.
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DO IT AFRAID joycemeyer.org/courageous
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