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6 Things

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EVERYBODY NEEDS PA G E 1 4

Avoid THE GREAT DESTROYER

How God

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a Second Chance

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STRAIGHT FROM THE

Heart

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hen sharing the Gospel with someone, I think it’s very important to let them know that God is not mad. It’s so sad that many people—believers and nonbelievers alike—think that He is an angry God just waiting around to punish them.

Because of that mindset, they are afraid of Him; unable to perceive the loving, caring and nurturing Father He is.

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And it’s even sadder because they just don’t understand that God’s mercy for us is so much greater than anger over anything we can do.

Renowned preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, “God’s mercy is so great that you may sooner drain the sea of its water or deprive the sun of its light or make space too narrow, than diminish the great mercy of God.” Wow! Think about that. Can any one of us drain the sea? We might be able to drain a bathtub or a pool…but not the sea! Does that give you an idea of God’s immense mercy toward us?

Now let me make it clear…God does get angry. He gets plenty angry over sin, injustice and the like in our lives. But His character is not that of an angry God. There’s a huge difference. It’s pretty much impossible to please someone who is just angry all the time. It’s also quite uncomfortable to be around them. On the other hand, God’s anger toward sin is for our protection. He is much more willing to pardon than to punish (see Psalm 145:8-9). It’s easier to want to be with somebody like that.

God never stops loving us…not even when we do bad things. Yes, there may be consequences for our wrong choices, and God will deal with us just as any loving father would. But even then, His mercy and grace are there to heal and restore our lives.

God is not mad at us!

er do “We can nev ng so much wro no that there is left more mercy for us”

So if the only thing that keeps you from coming to God is fear of His anger, let me encourage you:

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The Lord is loving and merciful, slow to become angry and full of constant love. —Psalm 145:8 GNT

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Contents If you’ve ever asked this question, here’s the final answer.

12 Six Things You Should Say Every Day of Your Life

By Joyce Meyer Joyce shares six keys to having a more positive, powerful life.

14 Sharing God’s Love with Inmates Who Are Seeking a Second Chance

By David L. Meyer

T V BROADCAST SCHE D U L E SALVAT I ON NE XT GE NE RAT IO N GOD’S WORD MA D E PE R SO N A L AME RI CA AT I TS B EST GOOD ST UF F LE ADE R’S E DGE ACROSS T HE USA

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By Joyce Meyer

6 11 24 26 27 29 32 34

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7 Is God Angry?

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The prison team shares the love of God, practically and spiritually, in 23 Maryland institutions.

22 The Problem of Strife

By Joyce Meyer

THANK YOU! Every day our partners help us Share Christ and Love People.

Check out joycemeyer.org/annualreport to see how your generosity blesses others in need. To become a partner, see page 5 or the order form inside.

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Learn how to disagree without letting it destroy a relationship, a church, a job—or a life.

ON FACEBOOK

anger vs. love ANGER is a powerful emotion, but LOVE is much stronger.

• In anger we might criticize, but in love we encourage.

• In anger we might turn away, but in love we reach out.

• In anger we might withhold, but in love we are generous.

• In anger we might use our fists to strike, but in love we use our arms to hug.

• In anger we might glare, but in love we smile.

• In anger we might blame, but in love we forgive.

...Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another. —John 13:34

GOD IS NOT MAD AT YOU. IN FACT, HE THINKS YOU ARE SPECIAL, AND HE CELEBRATES YOU ALL THE TIME! Nancy Marcontoni I celebrate Him too, for being in my life.

Justine Simpson Love this! What a fantastic reminder to each one of us!!!

Jenny Yano Very overwhelming to know how He loves me so much and He celebrates me—in failure and in victory. Wherever I go, whatever I do, there is always God whose eyes are big enough to see me and guide me and protect me from the yoke of the enemy. AMEN! Thea Carter I am just beginning to understand this statement for myself. Funny I believed it for everyone else but not for me.

Carla Hensley Loveliest Post of the Day Award!

Join the conversation! Follow us at facebook.com/joycemeyerministries

Contributors

All Bible references are from The Amplified Bible unless otherwise noted.

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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

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JOYCE MEYER is one of the world’s leading practical Bible teachers and travels extensively conducting conferences. She has written 100 inspirational books and her Enjoying Everyday Life® radio and television programs are broadcast all over the world.

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 at conferences 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 14 foreign offices and the foreign broadcasts, as well as coordinates humanitarian aid and international festivals. His travels for Christ have taken him to more than 150 nations.

Enjoying Everyday Life® is published by Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc.®, a nonprofit corporation, Fenton, MO USA © 2013 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 Resource prices are in U.S. Funds unless otherwise noted.

Enjoying Everyday Life is a registered trademark of Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc. [J] is also a registered trademark of Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc.

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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Share the Gospel

Help Hurting People

Rescue Victims of Human Trafficking

Give Orphans a Home

Feed the Hungry

Rebuild Lives

Our partners share the Gospel every day through Joyce’s TV and radio broadcasts, online devotionals, social media and more.

Charlotte Lamborn ,

OREGON

“As a single mom, I worked long hours and was tired every night when I

got home. Instead of reading my kids a bedtime story, we’d climb into bed for

‘cuddle time’ and watch Joyce.

The nightly inspiration and humor was helpful to me, and the kids got a lot out of it. Ten years later, my kids have a good foundation in Christ.

I partner with Joyce because she has such a gift to teach the Word and bring

GIVE FROM YOUR HEART. Help change lives through partnership. joycemeyer.org/partnership (800) 727-9673 / CANADA (800) 868-1002

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so many people to the Lord. I want to help provide the means to get that done.”

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.

DAILY BROADCAST PROGRAMS AIR DAILY, MONDAY - FRIDAY

September

SEPT 9 – 13

SEPT 16 – 20

SEPT 23 – 27

GOD IS NOT MAD!

GRACE AND OVERCOMING INSECURITY

NO OFFENSE, TRUST & UNITY

OBEDIENCE & FREEDOM

Get ingrained in God’s love with “God Is Not Mad” teachings MondayWednesday.

Join Joyce and Andy Stanley on Thursday as they discuss the gift of grace. Friday’s program is about exuding godly confidence.

Monday and Tuesday, Joyce explains the ways we offend ourselves—and how to change our behavior.

Wednesday, learn how to focus on the positive things in life. Wrap up your week with teachings about the power of unity.

Do you need more peace and freedom in your life? Tune in Monday-Wednesday for some amazing teachings.

Thursday, Joyce shares what it means to wholly follow God. Friday,* learn about Joyce Meyer Ministries’ connection to Mercy Ministries.

SEPT 30 – OCT 4

OCT 7 – 11

OCT 14 – 18

OCT 21 – 25

OCT 28 – NOV 1

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

PERSEVERANCE, HABITS & DREAMS & CHARACTER YOUR MONEY How does a habit

YOU’VE GOT THE POWER!

ALL ABOUT LOVE

This week, dive into teachings on the mind as Joyce shares Word-based “Power Thoughts” that can help you overcome negative thinking in every area of your life!

What is true love?

Hear what Joyce has to say about it on Monday and Tuesday.

Then the rest of the week, learn practical ways to incorporate it into your everyday life!

On Monday and Tuesday, Joyce answers the question, “Is God mad at you?” She welcomes Priscilla Shirer to discuss God’s unconditional love on Wednesday.

And Thursday and Friday, learn how how God gives you power over sin.

On Monday, join Joyce and Ginger to learn about the amazing outreaches you helped support in 2012. Joyce shares what “dying to live” means on Tuesday and Wednesday. Later in the week, learn how to increase your intimacy with God.

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take root? Joyce explains “The Anatomy of a Habit” on Monday and Tuesday.

Wednesday-Friday, learn about habits you can start for a healthy spirit, soul and body.

Joyce offers encouragement on Monday, for those who are pressing through difficult times. Tuesday and Wednesday, learn about the power of pursuing a dream.

And tune in for Wordbased wisdom about finances on Thursday and Friday.

WEEKLY BROADCAST

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Did you miss a program that yo u really want to se e?

Watch it online at joycemeyer.org/ broadcast

PROGRAMS AIR ONE DAY A WEEK

SEPT 1 - 14 HIDDEN AFFLICTIONS Joyce and Steve Arterburn discuss hard-hitting topics like pornography, addiction and depression.

S E PT 1 5 - 28 NO FEAR! The Bible tells us repeatedly to “fear not.” Learn how to do that.

S E PT 29 - O CT 12 GET YOUR VICTORY Joyce shares how to get equipped for life’s daily battles.

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SEPT 2 – 6

O CT 13 - 19 APOLOGETICS WITH RAVI ZACHARIAS Joyce and Ravi Zacharias discuss Jesus’ death and resurrection.

O CT 20 - 26 THE ANOINTING What does it mean to be “anointed?” Learn what God’s Word says!

O CT 27 - NOV 2 PRISONERS OF HOPE Hope makes you happy. Joyce shares how to stay hope-filled.

Schedules are subject to change. *TBN will receive alternate programming.

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IS GOD ANGRY? Debunking the Myths of an Angry God and Other Reasons He’ll Never Stop Loving You

BY JOYCE MEYER

One day

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I put a post on Facebook that simply said, “God’s not mad at you,” and the response was overwhelming. In just a few hours, thousands of people responded, desperately needing to be reassured of this fact.

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Through my own personal relationship with God, and through ministering to other people, I have come to believe a large percentage of people either vaguely or perhaps even wholeheartedly believe that God is mad at them.

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Where does this belief come from? Perhaps from a parent who was difficult to please, the pain of rejection or maybe even from the church. Wherever these misconceptions about God’s wrath originate, I want to help shed some truth on these false beliefs so you can fully know that God is not mad at you!

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MYTH #1

MYTH #3

“God will never accept me like I am.”

MYTH #2

“My Dad was mad, so God must be too.”

The Bible is a record of sin, deceit and immorality of every kind. It’s also a record of God’s amazing grace and love.

The heroes we admire were people just like us. They failed miserably at times, and yet they found love, acceptance, forgiveness, and mercy as free gifts from God. His love drew them into intimate relationships with Him, empowered them to do great things and taught them to enjoy their lives.

“I’m not doing enough for God.”

If someone had an angry father, it is quite natural to view Father God as angry too. Hopefully you are one of the blessed ones who had an awesome dad, but for many that is not the case.

We conducted a survey at our office, asking our employees what one of their greatest concerns was in their walk with God. The number one response was, “When can I know that I am doing enough?”

Perfectionism is fueled with the tyranny of the shoulds and oughts. It is the constant nagging feeling of never doing well enough or being good enough. We think things like, I should pray better, read the Bible more, and be kinder. We instinctively want to be pleasing to God, and we are deeply afraid we aren’t. As a result, we believe God is mad at us because we just don’t measure up.

Since they experienced that acceptance, I believe we can experience it too. God doesn’t and never will approve of sin, but He does love sinners and will continue to work with us toward positive change in our lives.

I wasted many years living with a vague fear that God was angry with me.

Thankfully, over the years I have come to know the amazing, passionate love of God, and I now know that God is not angry with me; He isn’t even annoyed with me! And it isn’t because of anything I’ve done or haven’t done; it is simply because He’s in love with me.

But the pathway to God is not perfection. Some people in a crowd asked what they needed to do to please God, and the answer Jesus gave was, Believe in the One Whom He has sent…

(John 6:29). That is so simple that we often miss it. More than anything, God wants us to trust Him and believe His Word. You can stop trying to attain perfection because you cannot buy or earn God’s love or favor. It isn’t for sale—it’s free!

One of our most urgent needs in life is to feel safe. But children who grow up with angry, absent or abusive fathers often don’t feel safe. They have a feeling of impending doom or danger hanging over them most of the time.

But God is not like people. If your father was absent, you need to know that God will never leave you. If your father was abusive or angry, your heavenly Father wants to give a double reward for your former trouble (see Isaiah 61:7).

No matter how unfaithful your father may have been to you, I urge you to not let it ruin your life. Make a decision to believe that your heavenly Father is faithful and loves you dearly.

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MYTH #5 MYTH #4

“God is punishing me.”

We need to understand that God forgives completely—not partially, or almost, but completely! Take a moment and think of the worst thing you have ever done. Now, realize that you are completely forgiven. The goodness of God is greater than any bad thing we have ever or could ever do. That should bring a sigh of relief and a sensation of joy sweeping through our soul!

Staying positive and continuing to believe in the goodness of God during times of trial and tribulation will prevent you from losing your joy. Each difficulty that I have gone through in life has helped me go through the next one better. God is faithful, so continue to rely on Him when times get hard.

Joyce shares more about how you can be assured God is not mad at you on the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast airing October 1-4. Check your local TV listing for stations and program times or visit joycemeyer.org/tvlistings.

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Our troubles are not a sign that God is angry with us! We are in the world and Jesus said that in the world we would have tough times. He also told us to cheer up because He had overcome the world (see John 16:33).

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We all sin and come short of the glory of God. No person is without sin, and we all feel guilt at times, but when we keep that guilt long after we have been forgiven it turns into shame.

Guilt and shame make us feel that God is angry, and so we withdraw from His presence and don’t live the life God intended for us.

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Satan remembers every tiny thing we have ever done wrong and will do his best to remind us of them every chance he gets. He is vigilant in his efforts to make us cower under the weight of our own shame.

Some people may believe that when they have problems in life it is because God is angry with them for some past sin. I have heard people say things like, “I had a miscarriage and I wonder if God is punishing me for the way I lived in the past.” Statements like this prove that people have an incorrect view of God. He doesn’t punish us for past sins by bringing bad things into our lives.

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“God couldn’t possibly forgive me.”

God Is Not Mad At You If it weren’t for the grace of God, He would have to be mad at us because His holiness demands justice for sin. A sacrifice must be made to atone for sin, but because of His grace, He made the sacrifice Himself by offering His Son’s life for ours. Jesus took the punishment that we deserved for our sins, and offers to care for and bless us instead of giving us what we deserve.

When you can begin to fully understand His grace, forgiveness, mercy, and unconditional love, you can know with certainty His attitude toward you is merciful—not angry. I can assure you that no matter what you’ve done in life or no matter how many misconceptions you have about God’s feelings toward you, God will never stop loving you. God is not mad at you!

Adapted from “GOD IS NOT MAD AT YOU” by Joyce Meyer.

Copyright © 2013 by Joyce Meyer. Reprinted by permission of FaithWords, a division of Hachette Book Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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God Is Not Mad at You Hardcover by Joyce Meyer

$19.20 $24 | $24 $31

Canada

Also available in Spanish (Paperback) $11.20 $14

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Look for it wherever books are sold.

joycemeyer.org/notmad

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Wendy Hernandez took a stand for Christ at our Milwaukee conference on Thursday, April 11, 2013.

He’s My Number One HOW I GOT SAVED AT A JOYCE MEYER CONFERENCE

BY WENDY HERNANDEZ

THE DAY BEFORE THE CONFERENCE, I had a terrible work review and I was so upset. I felt like I needed to focus on work instead of attending the conference. Erica sent me a message

Receive Christ today!

THANK YOU for helping me understand that I needed to commit my life to Christ.

Simply pray: “Father, I believe You love me and sent Your Son, Jesus, to die for me. Please forgive me of my sins and help me to start this new, incredible life with You.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT JESUS AT

joycemeyer.org/ salvation

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ALTHOUGH TIME HAS PASSED... I still feel the Holy Spirit in me. Before, I was negative and unhappy. Now people can see joy in my eyes. My whole persona has changed at work and with my family and friends. I’m smiling all the time.

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GOD USED MY FRIEND ERICA to get to me to the conference. She would come over to my condo and we’d talk about my life struggles. In January, she had about a dozen women come to her house to create vision boards for the future—and we just continued to stay connected. So when she said, “Joyce Meyer is coming to Milwaukee in April. It’s a free conference.

You have to go,” I said, “Definitely!”

WHEN JOYCE ASKED PEOPLE TO STAND and pray for salvation, I realized I had never in my life talked to God honestly and openly and said, “You can have everything. You’re my number one.” I knew it was the best choice I was ever going to make. I thought, I’m done. I’m giving God 100 percent of my life, 100 percent of my cares, 100 percent of everything. Then I stood up and all I did was cry because I just felt so much joy.

My heart was so light!

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MY BIGGEST ISSUE? I was mad at God because I wasn’t married and didn’t have kids. It just wasn’t what I thought I deserved. But God was working on my heart. Two nights before the conference, I deleted all of my online dating profiles.

saying it was up to me but that I needed to realize the enemy was trying to convince me not to go. After praying about it, I went. And I was completely wowed by the whole conference.

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GROWING UP, my family went to church every Sunday, but I didn’t really get anything out of it. To be honest, I think I’ve always been lost. I never had that personal relationship with Jesus—and that was my choice.

6 Things You Should Say Every Day

OF YOUR LIFE

When I get up in the morning, I like to say a prayer of blessing. “God, I bless this day in Jesus’ name. I bless my husband. I bless my children and my sons-in-law and daughters-in-law. I bless my grandchildren. I’m blessed because of Jesus. And I’m living under the blessings of God.” It really helps me start my day with a right attitude and focus.

I’M SO THANKFUL! Have a thanksgiving session each day. Take time to thank God for everything you can think of, from hot water to food to a roof over your head.

And tell people you’re thankful for what they do for you.

Psalm 107:1-2 says, “O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so….”

BY JOYCE MEYER

Galatians 5:16 says, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (NIV). That means if we decide to concentrate on the positive—the things we can always be thankful for—it shuts the negative out of our life.

I want to share six things you can say on purpose to stay focused on the positive and increase your opportunities to be a blessing.

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I’m blessed and I’m a blessing.

If you’re in the middle of a difficult situation, trust that God’s doing something good right now—bringing circumstances together, changing hearts, changing minds. Don’t wait until you’re on the other side of the blessing to thank Him for it.

Remember…we’re the redeemed of the Lord and we are supposed to “say so!”

You can cut out these helpful reminders of the six things you want to say every day.

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I was made to encourage

GOD’S WORD IS IN MY VOCABULARY

First Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to encourage one another and build each other up. Say something positive to the people around you about who they are or how much you appreciate them. Or tell them how much God loves them and wants to bless them.

Jeremiah 23:28 says, “…Let the one who has my word speak it faithfully…”

(NIV). The Message translation of Jeremiah 23:29 says the truth is like “a sledgehammer busting a rock” into pieces. I love that!

I honestly believe if you’re going to be committed to the truth, at some point, you’re going to have to admit your weaknesses and make hard choices.

Ephesians 4:14 tells us to let our lives lovingly express truth [in all things, speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly].

I encourage you to be committed to the truth. Cherish it. Hang on to it, no matter what it costs you. You won’t regret it!

The Book of Proverbs is filled with scriptures about holding your tongue.

Proverbs 17:28 says, “Even a fool when he holds his peace is considered wise; when he closes his lips he is esteemed a man of understanding.”

Few things impact us more than the words we speak.

Choose wisely.

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Most Christians probably think, I don’t have a problem with lying. But sometimes telling the truth hurts—and we just don’t want to hurt or offend people or risk our reputation.

I’m going to say just enough

Before you start talking about things you feel strongly about, ask yourself how much you really need to say. Get quiet and listen to what God is saying.

You’ll never regret saying what He wants you to say, the way He would say it.

It’s easy to focus on things we shouldn’t say or do, but that usually just leads to defeat. I want to encourage you to concentrate on the positive things you should say and do instead. As Romans 12:21 says, we overcome evil with good.

So make it your goal to do what is good before God, and enjoy the freedom and victory it brings to your life!

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I’m telling the truth—no matter what

Keep speaking the Word of God. Make it a part of your everyday vocabulary.

The Power of Words

4 Teachings on CD

by Joyce Meyer

$26 / $33 Canada

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Think about the people you’re going to be around today and ask God to put a word of encouragement in your heart for them.

Sometimes you have to hit a nut or a shell over and over again until it cracks open and you can enjoy the fruit inside. Well, people can be just as hard, and our problems can seem as hard—but God’s Word can open them right up.

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Encouragement is powerful. It can actually make a person feel better. I remember one time when I got a text message from my youngest son. All it said was, “I love you, Mommy!” At that moment, I literally felt refreshed by his words. They gave me the extra dose of courage I needed that day.

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Second Chance b Y d av i d l . m e y e r

At the Maryland Correctional Institute for Women in Jessup we met 67-year-old Gwendolyn, who is currently serving a 400month sentence (that’s 33 1/3 years). She says she prayed at times when she was on the streets, but never really had a relationship with God. “Most of us are learning who God is for the first time. You know, you can look at this incarcera-

Although the inmates admit they’ve made bad choices and deserve to be in prison, they are grateful that the partners of our ministry believe they can change and grow into the people God wants them to be. That’s why

During a worship service at Maryland Correctional Institution-Jessup, 59 men accepted Christ as their personal Savior. Thank you for sharing the Gospel with inmates around the world!

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“I would not trade the last five years of my life for anything because I’m closer to God than I’ve ever been. I do want to get out of here, but God is good and He’s more real to me than ever before in my life,” shares Robert.

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On April 27, Roy and Kathy Lormis, our prison outreach supervisors, set out on their second trip to Maryland. Over the course of two days, they drove a 26-foot Rider truck the 843 miles to the Baltimore area to visit a number of correctional institutions and distribute hygiene gift bags.

Most of the inmates our team talked to, including Gwendolyn, actually look at their time in prison as a blessing and a second chance. Robert, an inmate at Maryland Correctional InstitutionJessup, says he’s thankful for the time he’s spent there because through the Bible studies, worship services and teachings, he’s developed a newfound relationship with Christ.

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And you came to Maryland. This past April and May, our prison team set out on the road to visit with inmates in 23 Maryland prisons. Thanks to your faithful support of Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions, we were able to reach 25,388 inmates with a small gift and a message of God’s love.

tion as the worst thing that’s ever happened to you, or you can look at it as a second chance.

I’ve learned that I can serve others, talk to people about my testimony and turn my life into something about Who God is and how He’s brought me through,” shares Gwendolyn.

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…was in prison and you came to see Me. (Matthew 25:36)

getting Joyce’s books into the prisons is so vital.

In addition to the hygiene items, these books are truly a blessing to the inmates.

“Anything we can put in their hands that uplifts their souls is a good thing in here. You’re helping people go home from these prisons filled with the Word of God. And when you invest in someone like that, they can return to their community and be an asset, instead of taking away from their community,” shares Lettie C., Administrative Chaplain at Maryland Correctional Institution for Women.

Since our prison ministry began in 1998, our goal has been to reach out in simple, practical ways with the love of God. Through the hygiene items and books, we’re showing prisoners they are not forgotten. Over the years we’ve been able to reach out to more than 2.5 million inmates in more than 40 countries and in all 50 states.

“A lot of us felt unwanted, unneeded, abandoned; and a lot of us are just bad people. But we’ve been given a second chance. And it means a lot for those who recognize that we can be redeemed, can be saved and can be changed. It gives us hope to continue the change,” shares Gwendolyn. “It means so much that people take time to pack a bag for someone who’ve they’ve never met and is on the wrong side of society.

And to know that people recognize we can change is a very humbling experience.”

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Thank you for sending us to visit these prisoners. Because “you came,” inmates in Maryland are being impacted with the love of Christ.

Thank you for your faithful support and for helping us reach those who are ready and willing to embrace their second chance at life— full of the love of God.

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Our heart is to reach men like Robert and women like Gwendolyn who are searching

for the love of a Savior and are developing a relationship with Him. We have the privilege of being the ones that are able to share the love of Christ and let them know they are not forgotten.

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ROBERT

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2001 AF RI CA

Joyce’s Festival of Life in Jakarta Marks a Milestone of International Ministry

BY JON ESSEN AND CHAD TRAFTON

IN

the mid-1980s, when the Lord directed Dave and Joyce to take their ministry “north, south, east and west,” they stretched their faith…and began holding meetings in each direction. Little did they know that their Fenton, Missouri-based ministry would one day extend all the way to Europe, Africa and beyond.

This year’s Festival of Life in Indonesia marks 25 years since they first ministered on foreign soil at a church in San Jose, Costa Rica. Since then, things have changed— crowds are larger and, in many ways, the world is smaller.

But after all the years, one thing is the same: In every language, God’s Word translates into lives changed.

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Celebrating 25 Years

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“BUILDING BRIDGES NOT WALLS...”

A Festival of Life is able to bring large numbers of people together—both believers and unbelievers.

They experience the goodness of God through great times of worship and the teaching of God’s Word. And over the years, every Festival of Life has resulted in tremendous ministry opportunities, including many giving their lives to the Lord.

One important key to the amazing responses we’ve witnessed is our involvement in humanitarian outreaches throughout the nations where we hold our festivals.

Whether it’s through broadcasting our Enjoying Everyday Life TV program…or by ministering to people’s physical needs through our various Hand of Hope outreaches—such as providing food, clean water, disaster relief, mobile medical clinics and more—we target areas where we have already “built bridges” in those countries.

Conducting festivals in these locations—places where we’re sharing the love of Christ in practical ways—has proven to be instrumental. It not only impacts unbelievers who are making a decision for Christ, but it also influences believers who are growing in their understanding of God’s love and purpose for their lives.

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David Meyer, chief executive officer of Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions, says it this way: “Every ‘Festival of Life’ brings a greater unity throughout the nation. People are willing to lay down their differences in order to join together for a central purpose and cause, which is to hear and act on the Word of God being shared.”

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1988

The Road to

25 Years...

COSTA RI CA IT’S A FIRST

Dave and Joyce minister at Centro de Victoria Cristiana church in San Jose.

Also attending is their son, David L. Meyer and his wife, Shelly—then missionaries in Costa Rica.

1997 I NDI A

1999 I NDI A

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AUSTRA L I A, JAM AI CA, PHI LI PPI N E S, K E N YA, UGANDA, I S R AE L

2002

RUSSI A, LAT VI A, UKRAI NE RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW

In 1996, our Enjoying Everyday Life TV program first aired in Russian. Now, the former Soviet Union gets to see and hear Joyce in person for the first time.

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“OUTPOURING” IN JAKARTA Through the years, we’ve learned that to be fruitful and effective, we also have to trust God…and be flexible.

During our most recent Festival of Life in Jakarta, Indonesia, this was exactly the case.

After praying, planning and preparing in the region for over a year, we were anticipating an incredible outpouring of God’s love. The multi-day experience would take place in the national outdoor soccer stadium located in Jakarta, the capital city.

told us how thrilled he was to “see churches all across Indonesia come together to worship Jesus and experience His love for them.”

On the first night of the festival, Joyce was transparent when sharing about her own life experiences. She exhorted the people that they didn’t have to be defined by their past, and that with God in their life, “it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish.”

However, what happened leading into the Festival of Life was a different type of outpouring altogether!

For a number of days prior to the event, Jakarta was deluged with some of the most intense rain and flooding it had seen in almost 10 years.

The effect of the rain and floods not only caused the Indonesian government to declare a state of emergency, but it also cast a curious shadow over the potential effectiveness of our scheduled meetings.

GOD’S PURPOSES ALWAYS PREVAIL Miraculously, the skies cleared and our Jakarta, Indonesia Festival of Life was underway.

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The passionate and spiritually hungry crowd was blessed by worship with Darlene Zschech and Hillsong, as well as with Indonesia’s own Sidney Mohede, a gifted worship leader who resides in Jakarta.

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As someone who has prayed for spiritual renewal in the nation of Indonesia for many years, Sidney

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U GA NDA HITTING THEIR STRIDE

Joyce holds first Festival of Life at Nakivubo Stadium in Kampala. More than 60,000 attend and 10,000 give their lives to Christ.

2004

2005

AUSTRALIA, ENGLAND, GERMANY, SOUTH AFRICA, SWAZILAND

2005 B R A Z IL

ON THE AMAZON

500 buses transport people from as far as 1,000 miles away for our Festival of Life at the Expo Center in Brasilia. More than 80,000 attend.

2006

RWANDA, KI E V, UKRAI NE , RUSSI A, SI NGAPORE , E NG LAND, G E RMANY, SWE DE N

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AUSTRALIA, ENGLAND, GERMANY, INDONESIA, NEW ZEALAND, SINGAPORE, SOUTH AFRICA, UKRAINE

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CA NA DA, N ORT H ER N I RE LA ND

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DRAWING A CROWD

Large groups of people walk for days to come hear God’s Word. In all, 1.2 million people attend this four-day open-air crusade.

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CA M B ODIA

Phnom Penh: After local authorities inexplicably cut the power and locked the gates to the meeting facility, Joyce climbs over the wall and uses a bull horn to preach to the enthusiastic crowd in the streets.

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2008

RWA N DA, I NDI A, NE W Z EA LA ND, E THI OPI A, AUST R ALI A, SCOTLAND, UGA N DA

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2009

I NDI A, MALAWI, SOUTH AFRI CA, SWI TZE RLAND, THAI LAND

2009

PAPUA NE W GUI NE A

N EPA L

NATIONAL ALTAR CALL

NEW DAY DAWNING

For the first time ever, a Festival of Life airs live on national TV. 500,000 people contacted our ministry to say they gave their lives to Christ.

As Nepal begins the process of drafting a new democratic constitution, this is one of the first large-scale Christian events. More than 13,000 attend.

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I NDI A, ZI M BABW E , CANADA

2011

POLAND, BU LGAR I A, G E RMANY

2011

ALBANIA A NEW GENERATION

Only 10,000 adult Christians—less than 1% of its population—lived in this former atheist, communist

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“Every Festival of Life brings greater unity throughout the nation. People are willing to lay down their differences to join together for a central purpose.”

— Dav i d M e y e r CEO of Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions

festival saw crowds of over 100,000 people, with 21,000 people giving their lives to Christ for the first time. Additionally, through a massive live broadcast opportunity, over seven million people tuned in to watch!

One media official shared that the reason Joyce Meyer Ministries continues to be so effective throughout Indonesia is because “they build bridges with the people, and not walls.”

2012

AU STR A LI A , IN DIA , SR I LA NKA , T H A ILA N D

2013

I ND O NE SI A

Over the years, you have made it possible for Joyce to speak in India on eight separate occasions, ministering to crowds as far as the eye can see. While there, we have also installed fresh-water wells, fully funded a hospital for those without medical care, and saved the lives of thousands of children through orphanages and feeding centers.

In the former Soviet Union, your partnership has provided vitamins to the elderly, a home for orphans and a pathway to airing our TV program in Russian. This led to Joyce’s first-ever conference in that region—an event that inspired and restored hope to an entire generation of people living in the post-communist era.

From Cambodia and Thailand…to South Africa and Rwanda…to the millions living in the Amazon Basin and around the world, you are not only responsible for sharing the Gospel, but also for bringing along lifesaving help—for building bridges that will last an eternity.

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nation. The attendees are greatly encouraged by the Gospel message…and 1,800 give their hearts to the Lord.

But it’s also about so much more. These events are focused on truly reviving a nation and bringing as much help as we possibly can. And, early on, we realized that having faithful friends and partners like you, along with partnering with other relief organizations worldwide, are vital keys to doing the most good.

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Since 1988, Joyce has taught the Word of God in more than 35 nations worldwide, with tens of millions hearing these messages translated into their native language through an interpreter.

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One married couple, Michael and Sandy, did exactly that in order to attend the event. They rode their bikes as far as they could…until the flooded streets blocked their way. At that point, they waded waist-deep in order to press through and make it to the Festival of Life. They were determined to come because they wanted to experience a genuine encounter with God through Joyce’s teaching…and “wanted to be able to take it back to their family and friends and minister it to them.”

And it’s this theme of “building bridges”—reaching out to help people spirit, soul, and body—that has permeated Joyce’s international ministry for the past 25 years.

And that is one milestone worth celebrating.

Jon Essen traveled to Indonesia with Joyce Meyer Ministries to report on Hand of Hope outreaches. Chad Trafton is a staff writer for Joyce Meyer Ministries.

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This statement described the Festival of Life itself. The second night was even more dynamic than the first; as word of the festival continued to spread around the city, the crowd reached over 60,000 people. Joyce encouraged them that it really is possible to press through fear and experience God’s absolute best for their lives.

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The

STRIFE W H AT H A P P E N S W H E N D I S H A R M O N Y TA K E S R O O T I N R E L AT I O N S H I P S

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BY JOYCE MEYER

GOD SEES! We all experience offenses and have to deal with them, and it’s not always easy to do. But it’s dangerous to let negative, toxic emotions take root in our heart, because even if we think we’re hiding it, it still affects

so important for us to practice humility of mind and spirit, because where there’s contention and strife, there is pride. When people are having an argument or there’s some kind of offense between them, someone has to take the humble position and be the first to apologize. Jesus has called us to take the narrow path that leads to life and every good thing.

DESIRE UNITY Bickering between God’s

Where there’s unity there’s blessing and anointing. If any two people agree, there’s power in agreement. But the power of God’s Word won’t work in our lives if we stay bitter at people. He can’t answer our prayers if we refuse to forgive those who’ve hurt us and His love can’t flow through us if we’re holding on to anger and resentment. We set ourselves free when we decide to be who He’s asked us to be and rid ourselves of angry feelings.

SHAKE OFF ANGER If you struggle with anger and are easily offended, I want to encourage you to make a decision to let God work in your life.

God is good and He wants you to have peace, joy and abundant life in Christ. As you trust Him and decide you want what He wants for you, He will bring healing and restoration to your heart.

Make it a priority to forgive and live in harmony with others. You’ll be amazed as the pieces—and the peace—finally fall into place in your life.

Get rid of strife in your life.

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people is nothing new. It was a problem in the early Church, just as it is now. At one point, Paul was fed up with all the pettiness and arguing and wrote in Philippians 2:2, Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention.

8 Ways to Live Conflict Free 4 Teachings on CD

by Joyce Meyer

$25 / $27 Canada BONUS! Reduce Me to Love Paperback by Joyce Meyer

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The dictionary defines strife as “bickering, arguing or heated disagreement.”

Strife is also defined as an “angry undercurrent.” It’s one of the most dangerous threats to the body of Christ and is an evil spirit designed to destroy marriages, personal relationships and even churches. God’s Word describes the problem of strife as the “little foxes” that sneak into the vineyard and spoil all the grapes (see Song of Solomon 2:15).

A person who creates strife may put a big smile on their face, but secretly they are full of anger and resentment. And if they aren’t confronted and stopped, they can spread contentious attitudes from person to person to person.

KEEP A HUMBLE HEART That’s why it’s

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Notice how this verse says we can’t merely desire peaceful relationships, but we have to pursue them. Now this doesn’t mean we can’t or won’t ever disagree. We’re all unique and each of us has our own quirks and eccentricities. People are naturally going to have disagreements, and it’s okay to disagree if we can learn to do it respectfully. But we must avoid strife.

the way we treat people. And the way we behave and treat people—God sees all those things. We can’t be one way at home, fighting with each other, then go out and put on a phony religious front, telling other people how to live when we aren’t living it out ourselves.

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God’s desire is that we live in peace and harmony with one another, and His Word offers clear instruction for how we’re to deal with each other in our daily lives. First Peter 3:11 says, Let him turn away from wickedness and shun it, and let him do right. Let him search for peace (harmony; undisturbedness from fears, agitating passions, and moral conflicts) and seek it eagerly. [Do not merely desire peaceful relations with God, with your fellowmen, and with yourself, but pursue, go after them!]

NEXT

generation

YouthBytes: Seriously Entertaining how to share christ with young people in your life

by anne williams

creative is possibly the best word to describe Chad Daniel. He’s a youth evangelist known for going to extremes to teach the Word in interesting ways. Think: handling gigantic snakes, swimming with sharks, wielding Samurai swords.

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Much of his creative inspiration comes from being on the road, traveling. His missions-discipleship ministry Global Expeditors keeps him on the move much of the year, holding large, sometimes citywide youth events in places like Thailand, India and South Africa.

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Through the years, he’s shared the Gospel in more than ninety countries and seen thousands of young people come to Christ. And Joyce Meyer Ministries’ partners have been part of that great missions journey from the start.

Now God is reaching even more young people through his award-winning YouthBytes videos—a tool anyone can

use to connect with teenagers about important issues of faith.

Daniel goes to great lengths to make YouthBytes programs interesting and engaging. He once took a bubble bath with a 16-foot Burmese python, just to talk about “How Sin Grows.” The award-winning “Sea of Trees” program takes you to the foot of Mt. Fuji—where many teens have taken their lives—to help foster critical discussions about the issue of teen suicide.

“Everything is based on God’s Word,” explains Daniel. “We systematically deal with topics like faith, relationships and understanding eternal life.

And we do it precept upon precept, line upon line, to help young people build a deeper understanding of God’s Word.”

Today, YouthBytes videos are broadcast on TV all over the world and are available on DVD or as video downloads. And the friends and partners of Joyce Meyer Ministries have helped expand their reach.

“Their support has been very instrumental in translating our television programs into 14 differ-

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Thanks to our partners, YouthBytes programs have been translated into 14 languages, including Spanish, Mandarin and Arabic.

“You have to be purposeful to reach a teenager,” says Daniel. “Turn off the TV, the cell phone and close down the computer. Eat dinner together.

Spend time talking about things of faith.”

It can be difficult to get teens talking about their personal struggles or what really matters to them, but it’s worth the effort if you can help them discover that God is with them—and He’s able to help them through every situation.

It’s easy to judge teenagers by their tattoos, their hair, their earrings, or even their attitude. But many times those are the outward expressions of a heart that is looking to be loved and accepted.

“We’ve got to be there with open arms saying, ‘I’m not going to judge you,’” says Daniel. “We’ve got to look at them through the eyes of God, accept them for who they are unconditionally, and speak the Truth to them in love.’

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Material things can be distractions that keep teenagers from forming valuable friendships, including their relationship with God.

A tip for connecting with teenagers: Every young person wants to be accepted. So when you sit down and talk to a young person in your life, just be open and honest with them—not religious or self-righteous. Speak to them about things in their life that they’re going through, and apply some examples from your own life.

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Real relationships are what matter most.

Teenagers today have everything from iPhones and MP3 players to gaming systems and computers. But their relationships have become more and more two-dimensional because they’re connecting through social media.

Daniel encourages Christians everywhere to be cheerleaders for the next generation. “We’ve got to tell them, ‘If you fall down, get back up. You can make it. If God is for you, who can be against you?’”

“There are so many anti-heroes in the world today. But we can help set a new standard. And we can show young people that serving Jesus is powerful.

It’s life-transforming.”

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Having held youth events for almost 20 years, Daniel understands the importance of discipleship. “My videos get the ball rolling with good discussion topics,” he says. “But they’re ultimately a tool to help parents, pastors and youth leaders engage with teenagers on a weekly basis.”

make sure that they have leadership; forerunners who have gone before, and can encourage them as they grow in their faith.”

Anne Williams is a staff writer for Joyce Meyer Ministries.

“When God begins a work in a teenager, He’s faithful to complete it,” says Daniel. “But we need to

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ent languages, including Spanish, Mandarin and Arabic,” says Daniel. “They’re helping disciple a generation all over the planet, 24 hours a day.”

GOD’S

word

MADE PERSONAL

God Is Not Mad At You.

Is the thought of God being angry at you a major hurdle for you? If it is, try this exercise: write a letter to God about your thoughts and ask Him to help you change your mindset. Take a moment to pray and get quiet before you begin.

Dear God, I love You. But I know I’ve been distant. I’ve been afraid you might be angry or disappointed with me because…

(Read Psalm 51; Jeremiah 31:3; Ephesians 2:4.) Father, I open my heart to what Your Word says about Your grace and mercy. Please speak to my heart and help me fully understand Your love for me. (Write down what God speaks to your heart.)

…I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness….

–Jonah 4:2 The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and abounding in mercy and loving-kindness.

–Psalm 145:8

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Lord, Your Word says that You love to show mercy (see Micah 7:18). I will wholeheartedly trust what You say in (list other scriptures that speak to your heart about God’s grace and mercy)…

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I am so grateful to You for revelation. You’ve helped me realize (write down any enlightenment or understanding you have received as you read and meditated on God’s Word)…

Because You have forgiven and forgotten my sins, I am secure in Your love. Thank You so much!

Love always,

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A M E R I C A AT I T S

best

The Lighthouse of America the strength of our past is the solution for a better tomorrow

by dave meyer

The French philosopher, Alexis de Tocqueville came to America in the 1830s to investigate the reasons for our success and the things that distinguished us from France. He eventually found what he was looking for…

The Christian Church is—and has always been— the lighthouse of this nation. Through the Puritans and other early settlers, the Church sowed the seeds of America’s greatness…then nurtured those seeds during the two centuries before our political birth in 1776.

A lighthouse is a symbol of hope. It shines bright, giving direction and warning of danger. But what happens when that light begins to fade?

Continental Drift — For those of us who are old enough, we will never forget the day in 1969

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“I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers, and it was not there; in her fertile fields and her boundless prairies, and it was not

“Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power.

America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.”1

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The question is, What has made our country so great?

there; in her rich mines and her vast world commerce, and it was not there.”

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since the days of the American Revolution in the eighteenth century, the United States has been regarded as one of the greatest and most prosperous nations in the world. For more than two hundred years, we have enjoyed unprecedented success.

A M E R I C A AT I T S

best “The survival of America depends upon revival in the Church...and that begins with you and me.” when our astronauts landed on the moon. However, if the satellite trajectory of America’s first spacecraft to the moon had drifted off course by even one degree, we might never have heard the historic words, “One small step for man; one giant leap for mankind.”

Now, the results of scientific drift are easy to recognize. But when it comes to spiritual drift, it’s not so simple to notice.

Spiritual drift is the tendency for people or organizations to depart over time from values and principles they once held as foundational. It may seem harmless, but it can ultimately determine our destiny!

Seeds of Change

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The future begins with us.

Discover how to transform America from the inside out.

Renewing the Soul of America Paperback

by Charles Crismier

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The children of Israel experienced spiritual drift in almost predictable cycles. From the time they left Egypt, they vacillated between godliness and godlessness. When they lived godly lives, they were blessed. However, when they drifted, they suffered increasingly severe consequences.2 Judges 21:25 says that …every man did that which was right in his own eyes. Unfortunately, this phrase also perfectly describes the pattern of modern America.

A recent poll shows that 92 percent of Americans say they believe in God,3 and 82 percent consider themselves Christians.4 However, studies also reveal that marriages are failing (the divorce rate is close to 50 percent5), the pornography industry is booming (more than $13 billion a year6), and more than 1.2 million babies were aborted last year alone.7

And maybe more importantly, What can we do to fix it?

Healing Begins at Home — There is a solution for spiritual drift…

Second Chronicles 7:14 (KJV) says that If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

These four words—humble, pray, seek and turn— are extremely important. Our part isn’t simply to pray for our nation, but it also includes true humility and personal repentance.

These days, the word “repent” isn’t a very popular word. But in truth, it is one of the most positive, hope-filled words there is for our generation! Why? Because without repentance, there can be no revival.

The survival of America depends upon revival in the Church…and that begins with you and me.

God isn’t asking us to do everything—we are only responsible to do our part. But as we are faithful to do what we can do, God will be faithful to do what we can’t and bring healing to our land.

The Church can once again become the strength of this nation…a lighthouse offering direction and a safe harbor for those who have lost their way.

Things can change because the Seed of change resides inside of us. The Bible says that Jesus Christ is our “hope of glory” (see Colossians 1:27). He is our hope for personal change and growth as Christians…

And He is our hope for the future of America.

1. Charles Crismier, “Renewing the Soul of America,” Elijah Books, Richmond, Virginia 2002, p. 308. 2. Ibid, p. 311.

3. www.gallup.com 4. www.seekfind.net 5. www.thevindicator.com 6. www.familysafemedia.com 7. www.christianliferesources.com

These statistics can leave us wondering, How did we manage to drift so far?

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September/ October 2013

Good Stuff INTERESTING BITS, WISDOM FOR LIFE, MILESTONES & MORE

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And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing, fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. —Philippians 4:8 NLT

Share your own encouragements or search for a few from Joyce at pinterest.com/joycemeyermin.

We all wrestle with negative, self-defeating thoughts. But we can choose to think differently. Write down a particular negative thought or expectation that’s been weighing you down lately... ___________________________________ ___________________________________

Let’s help put an end to world hunger. Mobilize your family, friends and community this October 16th. When each of us does our part we can end the needless suffering of nearly a billion people worldwide.

___________________________________

WANT MORE? Ready to liberate your mind from defeated attitudes? Try one of Joyce’s action plans!

For more info, call (800) 727-9673.

In Canada, call (800) 868-1002.

What you can do: • Encourage your local church to take action • Arrange a food and fund drive • Start a community vegetable garden • Donate to your local food bank

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Oct. 16: World Food Day

What new attitude or perspective can you replace it with?

1986

Hand of Hope Begins Feeding Programs

1990

First Clean Water Wells Drilled in India

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1993

Tell Them I Love Them Translated into Tamil (India)

1996

First Foreign Office Established in Russia

1996

First Joyce Program Translated into Russian

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1998

First Prison Outreach Established

2003

Joyce Speaks at First Festival of Life (Uganda)

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MILESTONES OF HOPE

September/ October 2013 E N J O Y I N G E V E R Y D AY L I F E

GOD’S WORD Y O U R

MEDIA

Joyce is on Roku!

No, it’s not an oriental strategy game or a mysterious government acronym.

Roku is a small box that connects to your home wi-fi signal and streams over 700 channels (and counting) to your TV. Now Joyce has her very own channel on Roku, which means you can watch as much Joyce as you like whenever you want!

WITH “JOYCE ON ROKU” YOU CAN…

• Watch Joyce “on demand” to suit your schedule • Watch TV content from joycemeyer.org on your TV • Access the last 90 days of Enjoying Everyday Life broadcasts

EVERYDAY ANSWERS

SNAPSHOT

Fickle Feelings

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In the Nick of Time In 2012, when eight-year-old Claudio’s father carried him into the Hand of Hope medical clinic in Curuá, Brazil, he had a heart murmur and a dangerously high fever. Medical volunteers immediately administered fluids and antibiotics. The team prayed over Claudio, but his condition remained critical…to read the rest of Claudio’s story, go online to joycemeyer.org/annualreport.

Feelings can change so quickly! They make us cry one hour and laugh the next. They behave better when circumstances are good, and they act up during periods of waiting and change. Learn to master your feelings. Own your emotions, don’t let them own you. –Joyce

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MILESTONES OF HOPE

2004

2006

Ministry Funded Chandrakal Hospital Opens in India

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2007

Ministry Begins Human Trafficking Rescue and Restoration Efforts (Ethiopia)

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

—ISAIAH 26:3 NLT

• Watch Joyce’s most current program

Joyce on Roku is just one more way to get solid, Bible-based encouragement 24/7—or anytime you need of a little “Joyce” pick-me-up.

Hand of Hope Disaster Relief for Southeast Asia Tsunami

M I N D

2007

First Short-term Medical Missions Begun (Cambodia)

2008

Ethiopia Health Clinic Opens

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Y O U R

M O U T H

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

—ROMANS 10:9 NLT

Y O U R

M O O D S

Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and he knows everything.

—1 JOHN 3:20 NLT

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Be part of a life-changing experience. Volunteer for upcoming trips at joycemeyer.org/ medicalmissions Upcoming Medical/ Dental Trips*

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• South Africa • Honduras • Ethiopia • Myanmar

Not only will God bring healing through your willingness to serve, these trips are sure to be a blessing to you in return. We hope you join us. For travel dates and more details, visit joycemeyer.org/medicalmissions or call (800) 707-7877 ext 3218.

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Throughout the year our medical and dental volunteers travel to some of the poorest areas of the world to provide much needed medical and dental care. Physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists and other medical professionals are needed.

Attention!

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*Schedule is subject to change. We will have a medical/dental team traveling around the globe each month in 2013, so please check in with us periodically for more opportunities to serve.

We have a great need for doctors and dentists on upcoming trips.

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leader’s E D G E

Trust God to Do the Heavy Lifting learning to receive his supernatural favor

by joyce meyer

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i’ll admit it. When I first began ministering more than thirty years ago, I was pretty scared and insecure.

Today, it is more widely accepted to be a woman preaching the Gospel. But at that time, it wasn’t very popular at all to do what I was doing.

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As a result, I was afraid of being rejected. In fact, I would often bend over backwards to speak and behave the way I thought was expected of me. I so much wanted to gain others’ approval.

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There was just one problem: I was attempting to win the favor of people, not God. I was performing in order to attain natural favor…and it didn’t work!

You see, I hadn’t yet learned this one very important lesson: When God calls

someone to do something, He also places His supernatural favor upon them to do it.

Supernatural Favor vs. Natural Favor — In those early days, I knew nothing about supernatural favor. I didn’t know that favor is actually a part of grace. In fact, the words “grace” and “favor” are both translated from the same Greek word charis in the English New Testament.

The grace of God is the favor of God. And the grace of God causes things to happen in our lives— through the channel of our faith—that we cannot do on our own. It is not by human power, or by human might, but by the Holy Spirit, that we receive favor.

I absolutely love Ephesians 2:8-9. It says, For it is by free grace (God’s unmerited favor) that you are saved…And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own striving], but it is the gift of God.

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 (800) 727-9673 // Canada (800) 868-1002

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He was a discerning man, and he saw right through my attempt to gain his approval. I had indeed become the perfect associate pastor, but I did it all in my own strength…without the supernatural favor of God.

“When we truly understand the favor of God, it takes away all of the pressure. We can simply do our best, then leave the results to Him.”

Let me give you an example. In the early 1980s, I was an associate pastor for a church in St. Louis, Missouri. It was my first official job in ministry. And more than anything, I simply wanted to succeed.

Now, if you know anything about my personality, you know I can be extremely determined. And when I set my mind to something, I really go after it. As a result, I wore myself out becoming the “perfect employee.” I made sure that I said and did all the right things. Because of my insecurities, I wanted to make sure there wasn’t one thing the senior pastor could find wrong with me.

I’ll never forget it. One day my pastor called me in his office. He looked at me kind of funny for a while, then said, “Joyce, I just can’t put my

Do Your Best, Then Rest — Philippians 12:13 says, For it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.

When we truly understand the favor of God, it takes away all of the pressure.

Rather than trying to do everything for ourselves, we can simply do our best, then leave the results to Him! This is why I pray daily for supernatural favor. God gives grace to the humble, and it is my one desire that His spiritual power will freely flow through my life and words and actions.

Remember, we cannot earn God’s favor—it is a free gift. And the way we accept it is simply by believing and receiving it from Him. Since that day in my pastor’s office, the Lord has helped me to realize the tremendous value of not trying to “earn” the praise or approval of others.

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I’ve learned that doing His will, and doing it with His strength and favor, is what brings the most freedom to our lives…and the greatest glory to God.

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Not in Your Own Strength — Now, if you work hard enough and long enough, you may get some people to like and accept you. But that acceptance must be maintained, and this is where people get into trouble. Saying and doing all the right things becomes a form of bondage.

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In fact, trying to get favor on your own is not only hard work, but it is often pointless. I speak from experience! The harder you try, the less people are attracted to you.

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finger on it. You do everything perfectly, but there is something that’s just not right.”

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Just like we can’t earn our salvation, we also can’t earn God’s supernatural power and favor in our lives. It is a gift.

across T H E

USA

No Urban Legend YOUR PARTNERSHIP IS CHANGING THE FACE OF ONE HIGH-CRIME COMMUNITY

BY CHAD TRAFTON

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A PROFESSIONAL GOLFER wasn’t exactly the answer they were looking for.

TESTIMONY: At six, I ran away from home to live with my grandma. My mother was an addict, and my stepfather was physically abusive. Years later, my friend invited me to a UYI event all about football and Christ. I went each week and grew in my understanding of the Gospel. Through it all, Bill was always there— He became like a father to me. Grandma once told me, “You are blessed and you are always going to be blessed.” Thanks to UYI, I now believe it.

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—Freddie Canady

The Tamarind Avenue Corridor in West Palm Beach, Florida—once a thriving business district—has become synonymous with high crime rates…three times the national average. More than 50 percent of the residents live below the poverty level. And in this neighborhood, it’s more likely that a youth will go to jail than graduate from high school.

Enter Bill Hobbs, a pro golfer who was called by God to leave the fairways and hit the streets of the inner city. In 1988, he stepped out to help at-risk youth… and never looked back.

Bill would load up his car with equipment, find an empty lot, and invite the local boys to play ball. Pick-up games led to camping trips, home visits…then countless opportunities to share the Gospel. He slowly but surely became a trusted friend and father figure.

By 1997, Bill and his wife, Kerry, officially founded Urban Youth Impact. Since its inception, Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions has partnered with UYI to take back the Tamarind neighborhood and reclaim families for Christ. The following is just a glimpse of what you—our friends and partners—are making possible…

The Leadership Academy: This after-school program provides tutoring, character development, faith-based instruction, computer literacy and life skills to kids K-12.

Reframe: Helps students acquire real work experience through paid internships with local businesses—180 internships to date.

Family Empowerment Program: Parenting classes, retreats, Bible studies and workshops create strong parents who raise God-loving youth.

Summer Jam: Six-week camp offering games, crafts, field trips, and educational and spiritual enrichment.

Project 5:13: This 10-month program allows adult missionaries to live in the Tamarind neighborhood and serve the community through UYI’s outreaches.

Chad Trafton is a staff writer for Joyce Meyer Ministries.

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bring A

free

FRIEND

ENJOY FOUR UNIQUE TEACHINGS AND GREAT TIMES OF WORSHIP—AND GO HOME WITH MORE PEACE, JOY, FREEDOM AND PASSION FOR CHRIST THAN BEFORE. DON’T MISS YOUR CONFERENCE MOMENT!

// U P C O M I N G C O N F E R E N C E S //

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SEP 26-28 T H E A R E N A AT GWINETT CENTER

OCT 10-12 V E R I ZO N A R E N A

OCT 24-26 BANKERS LIFE FIELDHOUSE

WORSHIP WITH PHIL WICKHAM

WORSHIP WITH PHIL WICKHAM

volunteer!

TWITTER.COM/JOYCEMEYER

(866) SEE-JOYCE

GREAT PERKS AND LOTS OF FUN! volunteer@joycemeyer.org (800) 707-7877 x3517

Get the complete schedule and the details you need to plan your trip at joycemeyer.org/conference.

Spanish translation will be available at some locations; please check online for more information.

Interpretation for the deaf will be provided. No registration required. Schedule is subject to change.

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FACEBOOK.COM/JOYCEMEYERMINISTRIES

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WORSHIP WITH M AT T R E D M A N A N D CHRISTY NOCKELS

A GIFT OF THANKS What Are You Going to Believe?

Free for new monthly partners Joyce’s new leather devotional,

Promises for Your Everyday Life: 365 Starts to Better, Fuller, More Purposeful Days BONUS gift for new monthly partners who sign up for auto-debit giving

You can share God’s love with others every day by supporting a multitude of outreaches worldwide and distributing His healing Word through media.

Join our family of partners today and take part in making a big, big impact. Whatever you have to give will help restore lives and bring hope to those in need.

joycemeyer.org/partnership (800) 727-9673 In Canada (800) 868-1002

THANK YOU for changing lives through partnership.