ENJOYING E V E R Y D A Y M AY
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SHARING HOPE IN GOD’S GOODNESS PMS 290
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Sharing Help for the Homeless PA G E 1 2
Sharing
SHARING THE KEY
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IN RELATIONSHIPS PA G E 3 0
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Share the Gospel
Help Hurting People
Rescue Victims of Human Trafficking
Give Orphans a Home
Feed the Hungry
Rebuild Lives
Together, our partners help feed more than 72,000 hungry children every day.
Wendy Reed ,
ILLINOIS
“Partnership is a wonderful, wonderful thing. And by partnering with Joyce, I can feed hungry children and help people who’ve been abused
and feel unwanted. What more could a person ask? I used to have the mentality that my money was my money, but now I’d rather give it away. I’m thankful to be a small part of making a big, big impact. It helps people we’ll never meet this side of heaven. And when we get there, we’ll have
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strangers come up to us and say, “You did feed me that day.”
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GIVE FROM YOUR HEART. Help change lives through partnership. joycemeyer.org/partnership (800) 727-9673 / CANADA (800) 868-1002
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VO LU M E 27
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“Hope
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enjoying e v e r y d a y
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ON THE COVER
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Partnering with Convoy of Hope to help victims of Hurricane Sandy. Image courtesy of Convoy of Hope
Contents When it comes to hope in Christ, believing is seeing.
12 Answering Their Cries for Help By Ginger Stache Learn how you help reach a hand of hope to homeless and abandoned children in Madagascar.
T V BROADCAST SCHE D U L E GOOD NE W S GOD’S WORD MA D E PE R SO N A L AME RI CA AT I TS B EST CONF E RE NCES 201 3 RE AL LI F E PE RS PECTI V ES
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By Joyce Meyer
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7 Brimming with Hope
24 Is It Time for a Security Check? By Joyce Meyer
30 Reconciled By Andy Stanley A family rift can be fixed the instant someone decides to take the first step. Will you?
THANK YOU! Every day our Partners help us Share Christ and Love People. Check out joycemeyer.org/annualreport to find out exactly how. To become a partner, see pg 2 or order form inside.
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It’s time to confidently be YOU—in Christ.
WITNESSING A HAND OF
Hope
From the Mailbag: Dear Joyce, I am currently incarcerated in Colorado for burglary. One morning I couldn’t sleep. I had been tossing and turning all night, so I turned on the TV and there you were. You were telling your personal story and it touched my heart almost immediately. It was as if you were telling my story: sexual abuse, living in fear and losing your childhood. You were willing to be vulnerable in the hopes of leading even one of us to Christ. I was saved that morning because of what
you suffered. God has done some amazing things in the last few years. I now have a clean heart, know how to forgive and let go of the anger, resentment and pain. You forgiving your father inspired me to forgive my birth mother for giving me up. I found her and now have a wonderful relationship with her. She was able to forgive herself of the guilt and sadness she has carried for 30 years. I am scheduled to be released soon…and I have a new hope for the future! –ANDREW
Mary Pietro A little while ago, I had no idea who Joyce Meyer was. On a recent trip to Uganda with my daughter to visit friends, family and missions there, we came to what looked like a baby orphanage…and I just had to stop. With no appointment, the staff escorted us (after we washed our hands) around this magnificent facility [that I learned was connected to Joyce Meyer Ministries.] The babies were so well cared for…and the staff was amazing. Since I’ve been back home, I’ve come to realize that Joyce is one amazing woman. I feel blessed to have accidently bumped into one of the many mission areas that help so many. Keep up the good work. It is truly inspiring. 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 nearly one hundred 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 and motivate people to get involved by praying, learning about the issues, and taking action.
ANDY STANLEY is a pastor, author of nearly 20 books, and the founder of North Point Ministries, Inc. (NPM). Each Sunday, more than 33,000 people attend worship services at NPM’s five Atlantaarea churches. Andy and his wife, Sandra, have three children.
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.
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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Hope is defined as “the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.” To me, hope is trust and confidence in God. When we have hope, it doesn’t matter how bad things may look, we know God is in control. So we can expect good out of even a bad situation. We can look forward to greater things.
Be consistent in faith; don’t be doubleminded. Consistency is the key to victory. Refuse to be defeated, and stand on the promises in God’s Word that apply to your situation. Attitude is everything when we’re waiting for our good outcome.
Hope is so vital, especially when we’ve been waiting for something a long time. It’s extremely important to learn how to wait on God. We need to learn to wait expectantly and not passively. Think of a woman who’s expecting a child. What does she do? She prepares! The whole time she’s waiting, she is doing something. She buys things the baby will need, sets up the baby’s room, all in excited anticipation of the sweet little bundle she will one day hold in her arms. That is her hope—her confident expectation, her happy anticipation of something good—in action.
God is good and He has a good plan for each of our lives. You can always expect His best when you put your hope in Him.
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seems like you’ve been waiting a long time. Fight negativity…learn to wait with a good attitude, always expecting, trusting, excited about what God is doing in the meantime.
Above all, remember this: God’s timing is perfect. You won’t always see Him coming, but you will definitely know He’s been there!
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ope is very powerful. It keeps us stirred up when our circumstances look bleak. It’s a positive outlook when everything looks negative. It’s confident expectation when there’s no reason to expect much.
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“as long as there is hope there is possibility”
Hope in Christ,
Is there something you’ve been believing or waiting for? My advice to you is keep hoping. Prepare for it. Stay positive…especially if it
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STRAIGHT FROM THE
TV BROADCAST 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
May
may 6 – 10
may 13 – 17
may 20 – 24
may 27 – 31
work in progress
live to share
i’m okay & i’m on my way
living amazed!
staying positive
On Monday, Joyce shares a special message about salvation that could change your life forever. Then, Tuesday-Friday, you’ll learn how to cooperate with God to be more like Him.
This week, take a trip around the world to see how people are receiving hope in the midst of difficulties, including recovering from Hurricane Sandy and receiving lifesaving medical care.*
This week, you’ll discover how to let go of things from your past that are holding you back and keep moving forward on your journey. On Friday,* see how your support is reaching Thailand through Joyce’s teachings, feeding programs, children’s homes, and rescuing victims from human trafficking.
This week, Joyce shares messages that will fill you with hope and leave you amazed at the way God intervenes in our lives. And on Friday, Joyce welcomes Andy Stanley to talk about the upcoming 2013 Women’s Conference.
If you tend to focus on the negative side, these teachings will help you stay positive even when you think you can’t.
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apr 29 – may 3
weekly BROADCAST
PROGRAMS AIR one day a week
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a p r 28 — m ay 18 you can have it all
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There’s a lot that God wants to give us. Joyce shares how to not “settle” for anything less than the great, full, victorious life He has for you.
m ay 26 - j une 1 reaching unsaved loved ones Joyce will help you discover how to present the Gospel to your family and friends who don’t have a relationship with Christ.
m ay 1 9 — 25 RELEASE YOUR FAITH It’s easy to have faith in little things like a chair holding you up, but what about when it comes to trusting God? Joyce will help you live with the faith that God will never fail you! Schedules are subject to change. *TBN will receive alternate programming.
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FREE
ENJOYING EVERYDAY LIFE PODCASTS JOYCEMEYER.ORG/PODCASTS
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BRIMMING with
HOPE EXPECTING GOD’S GOODNESS IN SITUATION
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I sometimes say that we are the “show me” generation. We want to see it before we believe it. In fact, most of us have a hard time believing that God is working on our behalf until we see something happening with our natural eyes.
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But that’s not how God operates—He works behind the scenes. You may not see anything happening, but do you believe God is working on things in your life right now? Do you believe that He’s got a plan to help your children, your marriage, or those things you’ve been praying about for years?
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“God has an incredible plan for your life, and He wants you to anticipate that good things are right around the corner.” Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has a good plan for your life…to give you hope in your final outcome. In other words, God is looking for an opportunity to be good to you! Maybe it’s hard to imagine yourself as a positive, faith-filled person, full of hope. If so, I know exactly how you feel! Some people are simply afraid to hope because they have experienced so much disappointment and don’t think they can face anymore pain. But that’s okay, because God is “the God of hope,” full of mercy and new beginnings (see Romans 15:13). And with Him, it’s never too late to start believing, anticipating, hoping and expecting.
Great Expectations… One definition of hope is a favorable and confident expectation.
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I believe many times we take a passive attitude, deciding we’ll just “wait and see” if something will change or “happen” to go well for us. But God wants us to expect on purpose. He desires for us to actively anticipate something good. So I ask you: What are you expecting?
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What are you seeing in your mind and imagination? How do you talk about your future? When you get up in the morning, do you think, Well, I guess I’ll try to make it through another day. Or do you wake up with
anticipation that today might be the day you receive your breakthrough? It’s appropriate that when a woman’s pregnant, we say that she’s “expecting.” And the further along she is, the more she anticipates what’s coming. My pregnancies were especially unique because I carried all four of my children approximately a month past their due date. My doctor told me I was the only woman he knew who stayed pregnant as long as an elephant. Toward the end of each pregnancy, I woke up every day and said, “Today is going to be the day—it has to be the day!” I had all my suitcases packed and ready. I was constantly double-checking everything and making sure things were in order, confident that my baby would come at any moment. Anytime I felt a twinge, I would think, There it is! It’s coming! This is exactly how God wants you to be with Him! He has an incredible plan for your life, and He wants you to anticipate that good things are right around the corner. Maybe you’ve endured a lot of pain and disappointment and can’t imagine anything getting better. The enemy wants to convince you that things will never change. But God wants you to know that He loves you, and you can trust Him to make a miracle out of your mess. Hope says: “Things may have been this way for a long time, but God is the God of the impossible, and things can change.”
Are You a Prisoner of Hope? We laugh about it now, but in my early years of marriage, I was the most negative person I knew. I often joke that if I thought two positive thoughts in a row, my brain would get into a cramp. I’ll never forget it. Dave and I had been married about three weeks when he looked at me and asked, “What is wrong with you? You have such a negative attitude.”
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So many times, I think we get caught in the trap of waiting until we feel optimistic or hopeful. But hope is a decision to be positive and not live by how we feel. The truth is that when we make a solid decision to think positive, hopeful thoughts, our feelings will eventually catch up! I absolutely love Zechariah 9:12. The Lord says, Return to the stronghold [of security and prosperity], you prisoners of hope; even today do I declare that I will restore double your former prosperity to you.
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Hope means having a positive mindset or attitude. The hopeful person absolutely refuses to be negative in any way. Although they recognize and deal with the storms of life, they remain hopeful in thought, attitude and conversation.
When you become a prisoner of hope, the enemy doesn’t know what to do. He may come against you with negative thoughts, but he has no power to harm you when you are determined to continually put all of your trust in God. God wants to bless you and give you “double” for the pain of the past and things that have been lost. And our part makes all of the difference. Our part is to believe, to trust and to hope.
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That explains why I was so miserable. Doubt and negativity brings us down…but hope releases joy!
What does it mean to become a “prisoner of hope?” It means that regardless of what happens in our lives, we refuse to stop hoping and trusting in God’s ability to come through.
It’s Time to Drop the Anchor Hebrews 6:19 says, [Now] we have this [hope] as a sure and
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And this is how bad it was: I responded with, “Well, if you don’t expect anything good to happen, then you won’t be disappointed when it doesn’t.”
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steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it…. Let’s break this scripture down. Now, I think we all know what an anchor is. When you want a boat to stay in one place, you drop the anchor, and it allows the boat to only move so far. Well, it says that hope is the “anchor of the soul.” Our soul is our mind, our will and our emotions. Our soul tells us what we think, what we want and what we feel. So what does all of this mean? It means that when everything looks bleak…when it seems like nothing makes sense and it feels like God’s promises will never come to pass in our lives, hope is our anchor that pulls us back and says, “Hold on! It’s still going to happen!” But let’s take this even a little further. Hebrews 6:19 says that hope is our anchor and that …[it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it….
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Let me give you an example. I have been speaking to large audiences for more than 30 years. But there are still times before a conference when I don’t feel anointed, qualified or prepared to do what I’m about to do. Before walking on stage, I’ve thought, Well, God, I sure hope You show up or I’m in big trouble. Then, as I step out to do what I believe He has asked me to do, God always kicks in and helps me to deliver my message. Not once has He failed me!
It’s Time to Raise Your Expectations
For many of you, God is just waiting for you to step out onto that anchor of hope. He’s just waiting for you to do your part so He can show up in your life and do something that will amaze you. Don’t let the circumstances of life blow you off course. Drop your anchor and step out on the sure foundation of hope. Because when you put your hope in God, you won’t be disappointed.
Filled with Hope
3 Teachings on CD by Joyce Meyer
Hope Grows Booklet
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Hope is our anchor and the very thing that causes us to “step out.” Some people are not experiencing the promises and power of God simply because they are not stepping out in faith. It’s this stepping out that puts the promises of God into action!
There’s a way to “live amazed” and stay hopeful in every situation. Get more insight from Joyce on the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast May 20-23. Check your local TV listing for stations.
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$20 / $22 Canada
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
answerin Through the outreaches of Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions, your support is sharing the power of hope with people all around the world.
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On the next several pages, we want to share just a few of their stories with you…
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—ROMANS 15:13 (NIV)
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We are in Madagascar’s capital city, Antananarivo. It’s a dangerous city ravaged by poverty and suffering through an economic environment Forbes magazine has called the worst in the world. There are an estimated 50,000 children in this city living on the streets.
They must be so frightened. Why should I sleep here in comfort and safety while they are in the midst of the chaos I hear outside? I want to scoop them up and bring them into my room, if only for a night.
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As the sun goes down the streets get louder, filled with the heartbreaking sounds of desperation—yelling, fighting, sirens, gunfire and worst of all, the cries of children. Each one pulls me out of bed to look out the window where I see children below lying on filthy blankets and cardboard.
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BY GINGER STACHE
For hours I toss and turn through one of the longest nights I can remember. How can I possibly sleep when just outside my hotel room window there are children huddled on the street, alone, cold and afraid?
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Bringing Hope to the Homeless and Abandoned Children in Madagascar
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sh ar ed Reaching Out with a Hand of Hope Joyce Meyer Ministries’ outreach arm, Hand of Hope, partners in Madagascar with an organization called Empowerment Advocates International to provide a Hope Center in the heart of the city. Children come to the center each day for a good meal, education, games, laughter, and to hear God’s Word. And the difference it’s making is difficult to overestimate. The children here range in age from 13 to small babies. They all live on the streets. Many of them beg to survive and are beaten if they return to their parents without enough money. Others are completely on their own and often responsible for younger siblings. They come with bruises, scratches and even knife marks from fighting for a place to sleep. There is blood on the floor of the Hope Center from cuts and open wounds on their bare feet.
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The food combats their malnutrition, but perhaps the most valuable thing they receive here is love and respect. You see, in the city they are looked at in disgust and referred to as “rats.”
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A young boy with a sweet smile named Jean Paul once prayed for God to rescue him from the streets, yet he saw no future nor value in himself. He spent his life fighting for a blanket, beating another up for a scrap of sandwich, avoiding gang rape and the police. Many of his friends were either dead or in jail, not to be seen again. He told me about trying to sleep standing up during the rainy season, leaning against a building to attempt to stay dry, yet sleeping with one eye open for safety’s sake. Fear was his most prevalent companion until he discovered the Hope Center.
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At the center he found nourishment, respect as a human being and a purpose. He was introduced to the God who loves him and he gets to share that love. At 15 years old, Jean Paul is now at the center every day looking out for other children. He says, “I need love, so I love other people.”
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I pray and beg God to help them and to never allow me to grow deaf to such cries. I sense His gentle reminder that we are in Madagascar for this very reason—to reach out to His children. And we are daily doing what He asks.
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And he gets to play rugby—his greatest pleasure.
Surviving Unthinkable Odds Children here need looking after. Ten-year-old Farasoa was grabbed from the street and pulled into a van. She was taken to the port and was being weighed with a group of children to be shipped when she slipped away from the traffickers. She ran to the Hope Center where she now stays for protection. A child being weighed for shipping— those words sicken me. I shudder to think what little Farasoa might now be enduring if not for the help she received. Brad Senekal, Hand of Hope African Outreach Director, explains, “People prey on the children of Madagascar. Child prostitution is rampant. There are a lot of children here that are sold for child labor as domestic slaves in many different parts of the world. A lot of them, believe it or not, will be sold for their organs on the black market.” But not Farasoa, and neither will many other children who are loved, fed and protected at the Hope Center. In Madagascar alone, Hand of Hope provides more than 60 sites, feeding over 2,000 children per day. Thank you for hearing their cries and for responding. You are in Madagascar too, allowing us to help those 2,000 children every day. You are showing them that they are not “rats”—they are precious and dearly loved. And together we are giving them hope in Jesus that life can be better, because He absolutely adores them.
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JEAN PAUL
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In Madagascar alone, Hand of Hope provides more than 60 sites, feeding over 2,000 children per day.
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Winds And Rain Pummel The East Coast
Cleanup Continues in the Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy
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BY KACIE CAMPBELL
Months after Hurricane Sandy—one of the most destructive storms in nearly four decades—swept through New England, many continue to suffer as they work to rebuild. “Not knowing where my son is going to sleep worries me the most.” Nancy is 73, doesn’t have any insurance and takes care of a son who is mentally impaired. Her Ocean City, New Jersey home wasn’t fit to live in, but they simply didn’t have anywhere else to go. Unfortunately, Nancy was not the only one facing this problem.
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Disaster Relief
After Sandy struck, millions were left without power, homes were flooded or burned, and many families lost loved ones. Our staff, friends and partners began praying diligently for all those like Nancy who were affected. And Hand of Hope, our world missions arm, sent immediate relief to some of the hardest hit areas.
Center and DRADT (Disaster Relief and Disaster Training) to bring immediate, critical aid to as many hurting people as possible. Basic supplies like food, water and household items were distributed throughout the area.
Helping Over the Long Haul With so many people affected, it was evident we needed to continue providing relief for as long as we possibly can. And thanks to the financial support of our friends and partners, Hand of Hope was able to partner with two local organizations to bring long-term relief and help rebuild their communities.
We also partnered with Convoy of Hope, the New York City Dream
Breezy Point, Queens The Legacy Center, a ministry of Christ Tabernacle Church in Glendale, New York, was founded in 2010, with a commitment to love its neighbors and surrounding community by providing acts of compassion, justice, community service and intentional leadership development.
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Staten Island, New York For the past 15 years, Reverend Daniel Delgado has been helping people living on Staten Island. His ministry, Third Day Missions, has always been a small operation, run strictly by volunteers. It wasn’t until after he lost his job on Wall Street that he was able to completely devote himself to pastoring a local church and running his ministry. So when Hurricane Sandy hit, it was natural for him to step in and do what he could to help.
Thanks to our friends and partners, Hand of Hope was able to come alongside Third Day Missions and help fund their efforts. By providing supplies, warehouse space and a few paid staff members, Pastor Delgado now has the opportunity to make an even greater impact in the recovery efforts. His team is constantly working with government agencies, local and nationwide businesses, and other ministries to provide as much “free” relief as possible—things like clothing, shopping gift cards, building supplies, food and more. They’re also hosting many volunteers who are coming to rebuild churches and homes throughout Staten Island.
Thank You for Partnering with Us We know these efforts wouldn’t be possible without your faithful prayers and financial support. It is because of you that people all throughout New York and the surrounding areas are experiencing the love of Christ in action. Please continue to pray with us as we work to provide ongoing relief and restoration as they continue to recover.
In addition to general cleanup and assistance, Hand of Hope also provided eight loads of construction materials to help Convoy of Hope rebuild homes in Long Island.
Kacie Campbell is a staff writer for Joyce Meyer Ministries.
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For the first few weeks after the hurricane, Delgado worked 20 hours a day, networking with agencies to get
relief to his community and driving hours to get gasoline and supplies for his neighbors.
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Targeting their relief in the Breezy Point community of Queens, Hand of Hope is partnering with The Legacy Center to completely remodel a couple homes for local community members—including Sally, a volunteer with the local fire department (we look forward to sharing her story with you soon). Many firemen and police officers in this area lost their homes in the storm, but spent countless hours serving others in their communities. It’s a great blessing to help one of their volunteers recover as well. Through our continuing partnership, we’re also able to bring additional encouragement and support to those living in and around Breezy Point.
Image courtesy of Convoy of Hope
joycemeyer.org/share
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Do you hear what I hear? The God of all creation cares about you and wants to encourage you and give you a vision for your life. Often times we’re really good at asking God for these things, but we also have to remember to listen to His response. As a thank you for your donation to Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions, we’d like to send you some resources that will introduce you to the greatest conversation of your life.
For your gift of $30 or more ($33 or more in Canada), we’ll send you: Hearing from God Each Morning Devotional
How to Hear from God
4 Teachings on CD
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For your gift of $200 or more we’ll send you the resources listed above, PLUS The Everyday Life Bible with pewter bonded leather cover and a leather-soft charcoal journal.
Give today! joycemeyer.org/share (800) 727-9673 (800) 868-1002 In Canada
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When you make a special missions donation today, you’re supporting the outreaches of Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions. Thank you for helping us share hope with people around the world.
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HELPING
Refugees, Prisoners & the Poor in Europe By susan Hutchison
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One outreach supported by Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions in Hamburg, Germany, is making a difference in the lives of people from various parts of the world. Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany and has a significant refugee population. Many of them come from oppressed, war-torn countries and are hoping to find a safe
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That’s why our mission at Joyce Meyer Ministries is Sharing Christ—Loving People. It’s simple, yet the meaning is extensive from a big-picture perspective. Thanks to the support of our friends and partners, and the blessing and favor of God, we have the opportunity to literally help people around the world every day.
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You don’t have to look far to find people who are struggling or oppressed in some way in our world. So many are in need of hope—real hope in a living, loving God who wants to rescue, heal, restore and give them the abundant life Jesus freely offers.
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we have fun, talk to God…and that we always pray.” One young boy said, “I like to play games and…we learn about God.”
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Inner-City Outreach Hope for the hurting
place for their families where they can do more than just survive day to day. While relocating to Germany gives them relief from war and other life-threatening persecution, many soon discover that the source of the hope, joy and freedom they are looking for cannot be found merely in a place but in a Person.
The Island of Hope and Help in the City Stadtinsel (translated “Island in the City”) is an inner-city outreach that provides help and support for the poor, hurting and socially weak or outcast. Their ultimate goal is to show the love of God and share the Gospel message through meeting common, everyday needs. For the children, there are Kids Club outreaches each week. These events are as much about having
fun as they are about meeting basic needs. Children gather to play games, sing songs, do crafts and eat. The staff shares simple messages about how much God loves them and how valuable they are by teaching them truths such as “You are precious and unique the way you are.” Sadly, many of the kids don’t hear these things at home, which means they may never understand they are loved and created by God with great potential, if not for Kids Club. God is blessing the efforts of the caring volunteers who minister to the children. Nine-year-old Jasmina told a staff member, “God wanted us to look different and to be unique because He is our father.” When asked why she comes to Kids Club, ten-year-old Sosa said, “Because we talk about God.” And her favorite thing about it is “that
Another outreach at Stadtinsel is Chic & Satt, the food and clothing program for the homeless and people in need. Every week there is a short service before the food and clothing areas open. A message from the Word is shared and people are encouraged to receive prayer and talk with a counselor if they need this support. People receive food for the body, soul and spirit, and some have begun their new life in Christ as a result. Frauen Café, a gathering for ladies only, is a great encouragement for women who haven’t experienced the unconditional love of God and been treated with respect or told they are valuable. The objective is to offer a warm, homey environment for ladies to get together for casual conversation, refreshments and crafts. At times, the staff have been overwhelmed by how deeply affected women have become by simple acts of kindness. One woman shared, “I have
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A prisoner named Scott shared, “It’s really good to know people haven’t forgotten about us.” It’s easy to understand that in those circumstances people can feel lost, discouraged and even hopeless. But God can make a significant difference in a person’s life when we allow Him to work through us by doing simple acts of kindness, such as taking the time to visit a person who feels forgotten. Thank you, friends and partners, for bringing God’s love and hope to the hopeless all over the world.
been so warmly accepted. The ladies that put this on take care of everything and are also interested in things Susan Hutchison is an editorial proofreader at Joyce Meyer Ministries. that are happening in other people’s lives. [They] want to make one day a week nice for us.” Another said, “Here… you can talk about everything if you have a problem.”
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Prison Outreach 6,000 bags distributed
Each prisoner receives... 1 of Joyce’s books candy bar In just
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Bringing God’s Peace and Hope to Prisoners Another
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exciting outreach that Joyce Meyer Ministries has been more directly involved in is prison ministry. For years we’ve had opportunities to bring encouragement to prisoners throughout the United States and nearly 40 other countries. But it wasn’t until September 2012 that we were able to visit prisoners in England, working in relationship with Life Church in Bradford, England.
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“It’s really good to know that people haven’t forgotten about us.” - SCOTT, UK Inmate
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September 3-7, our staff went to a total of 13 prisons and distributed 6,000 gift bags, each containing a note pad, pen, candy bar and one of Joyce’s books. In some prisons, we were able to hold services and share the Gospel. And at one location, 52 men accepted Christ and received God’s hope for their future.
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It’s amazing how powerfully a hurting heart can be touched when someone shows they care. This testimony is living proof: “Since I have been coming to Frauen Café, I have become much quieter and more peaceful than I was before.”
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opportunity KNOCKS by Joyce Meyer
Every week, our Hand of Hope interns are serving in the heart of St. Louis’ inner city, doing things like knocking on doors to extend a helping hand. If you’re interested in serving others, meeting new people, sharing the Gospel, working in various types of ministry and growing in your personal walk with the Lord, then I hope you’ll consider joining them. This internship program was established to provide a learning experience that reaches beyond classroom walls and offers opportunities to serve people in great need with compassion, respect and love. And the results are amazing because when the interns leave our program, they can take what they learned back to their own communities.
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PRAY FOR YOUR NATION ON MAY 2
Visit handofhope.org/internship for more information on this program and other upcoming short-term missions trips.
VISIT NATIONALDAYOFPRAYER.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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Has God put a desire in your heart to help people in your community? Well, opportunity is knocking. I hope you’ll answer.
PLEASE JOIN with other Christians to pray for your nation. The official United States National Day of Prayer will be held on May 2 and focuses on Matthew 12:21, which reminds us that “In His name the nations will put their hope.”
Be Encouraged Every Day
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20,000 people start or end their day with Joyce’s online devotional. Are you one of them? If not, check it out at joycemeyer.org/devotional.
IS IT TIME FOR A SECURITY CHECK?
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Gain the confidence of knowing who you are in Christ
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G NOU RT E L? A M S AI NOT T IF I F I’M A H W
BY JOYCE MEYER
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n today’s society, insecurity is an epidemic. Too many people—including many Christians—walk around timid, afraid, lacking confidence and feeling bad about themselves.
God wants you to be confident, bold, fearless and free. He wants you to be healthy and whole— fully able to pursue your destiny. And He desires for you to feel good about yourself and your relationship with Him.
But when Jesus died on the cross for us, something happened that I like to call “the divine exchange.” He took away our sins and everything we are not, and then He gave us right standing and made us perfect in Him.
THERE’S NO COMPARISON Insecure people tend to compare themselves with other people and feel a need to “keep up” with them. For years I tried to be like everybody else. I tried to be steady and easy-going like my husband,
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How do I know? Because this happened to me years ago. As a result, I got myself a clock, locked myself in a room and declared to everyone, “I’m going to pray for four hours a day! I’m not coming out of here, and you can’t come in!” Everything went well until I fell asleep five minutes after I began. God made you an original…and He has a unique plan just for you. Comparing yourself to others just leads to frustration. But having the confidence and freedom to be yourself leads to peace and joy.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT? Too many times we look at ourselves when we should be looking at God. We stare at all of our own weaknesses, and before we know it, we are timid, fearful, and convinced that everything is too hard to accomplish. If this is you, then Philippians 3:3 can change your life. It says to …put no confidence or dependence [on what we are] in the flesh…. Some people look at their weaknesses and think, I could never do something great for God. Then there are others who look at their own strengths and think, I don’t need help…I can do this on my own. Regardless of what we can or cannot do, God wants all of our confidence to be in Him. Because the truth is, apart from Him, we can do nothing!
David was one person who knew who he was in Christ. The entire army of Israel was too frightened to fight the giant, Goliath. But David wasn’t. Why? Because he was looking
MAKE A BOLD MOVE God wants you to feel good about yourself. He wants you to be bold…to be fearless…to believe Him for big things.
“In God’s economy, you don’t get what you deserve—you get what Jesus deserves!”
Ephesians 3:20 says that God is able to …do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]. I believe God is just waiting for some of you to boldly step out and ask Him for things that go beyond your mind or what you think is possible. Our insecurities will make us feel like we’re not worthy to even ask. But remember, in God’s economy, you don’t get what you deserve—you get what Jesus deserves! Wherever you are in your journey with the Lord, He wants you to know that you are right with Him. You may not be perfect, but God sees you as perfect because of His Son. And because of this, you can go forward with boldness, joy and the divine confidence you need to fulfill your destiny.
It’s About Learning to Enjoy the Journey
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Now, if you don’t know who you are in Christ, you suddenly feel like your prayer life is nothing. Then, just to keep up, you frustrate yourself trying to do what they are doing.
You, too, can have this “David” kind of confidence. You can become a giant-killer when you learn who you are in Christ.
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For example, it’s amazing how excited you can be about your prayer life until you happen to compare notes with someone else who gets up before daylight each morning and prays for four hours.
at God and not himself. He knew that his God could do anything. As a result, he walked straight out to the battlefield and killed Goliath with a stone and a slingshot.
I’m Okay & I’m On My Way 4 Teachings on CD by Joyce Meyer
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Dave. Then I tried to be like my pastor’s wife, who was super sweet and sensitive. But the truth is that we are only anointed to be ourselves!
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Security Check!
As Joyce said in the previous article, God wants you to feel good about yourself and your relationship with Him. Let’s look at some reasons for the insecurity epidemic—and ways to overcome it. 1. Comparison – Why do you compare yourself to others? How does it make you feel? Read Psalm 139:13-16. Now how do you feel about comparing yourself to anyone else?
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2. Perception – What do you see when you look in the mirror? Are you more on the apprehensive or arrogant side? Read Philippians 3:3. Does it matter how you consider your strengths or weaknesses? You shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; you know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, the days of my life all prepared before I’d even lived one day. –Psalm 139:13-16 (MSG)
3. Trust – Yes, God does want us to be confident, bold and fearless…but based on what? When David faced Goliath, part of what made him so confident was remembering what God had done for him in previous situations (see 1 Samuel 17) and believing that He would come through again. Read Ephesians 3:20. Do you trust that God’s power is at work in you? How does this verse help increase your security level?
…Put no confidence or dependence [on what we are] in the flesh…. –Philippians 3:3 (AMP)
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. –Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)
“I believe God is just waiting for you to boldly step out and ask Him for things that go beyond your mind or what you think is possible.” –Joyce Don’t allow insecurity to make you feel you’re not worthy to ask God to work in, for and through you—mightily. Learn who you are in Christ and become a giant killer!
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A M E R I C A AT I T S
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Sowing Seeds of Liberty the inspiring story of our troops at valley forge
by dave meyer
The following is an excerpt from America’s Providential History, the tremendous book by Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. McDowell.
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Washington stated: “For the want of shoes, their marches through frost and snow might be traced by the blood from their feet, and they were almost as often without provisions as with them.”
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This month, I want to share a story with you that is close to my heart—the story of our troops at Valley Forge. These brave men and women were some of the very first to give their lives to defend our country and preserve its freedom for future generations.
As the American Army, under the command of George Washington, moved toward their wintering spot at Valley Forge, army troops had no clothes to cover their nakedness, nor blankets to lie on, nor tents to sleep under.
Their situation even worsened after their arrival at Valley Forge on December 19th. In a letter to Congress dated December 23, 1777 Washington wrote, “Men are confined to hospitals, or in farmers’ houses for want of shoes. We have this day no less than two thousand eight hundred and ninety-nine men in camp unfit for duty, because they are barefoot and otherwise naked…”
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Without a doubt, the Lord has blessed our country. Today, we enjoy greater freedom and prosperity than any other nation in the world. But as you’ve often heard, “Freedom is not free.” In fact, it has come at a great price.
A Long, Hard Winter — The winter of 1777-78 was one of the most important in our nation’s history, for that winter was the turning point of the American Revolution. Yet during that winter the American Army faced a greater ordeal than any army throughout history.
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This month, we celebrate Memorial Day in America. It’s a day to remember the ultimate sacrifice that over one million men and women have made in order to gain and protect our liberty.
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“Washington knew that the cause for which they fought was well worth any price—even the suffering at Valley Forge—for they purchased liberty, not only for them, but for the generations to come.” — America's Providential History
About one third of all his troops were unfit for service, and this number increased as winter progressed. Due to this lack of food and clothing, hundreds of the troops fell sick. Many men’s “feet and legs froze till they became black, and it was often necessary to amputate them.”
Master Plan
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It didn’t happen by chance. Discover God’s fingerprints on the founding and establishing of this great nation.
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Suffering for the Generations to Come — Most historians agree that their reason for perseverance at Valley Forge can be attributed to their love of liberty and to their General George Washington, and his amazing quality of leadership. His character and encouragement inspired the army to follow his example.
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Hunger was even a greater danger. “The army frequently remained whole days without provisions,” said Lafayette. “One soldiers meal on a Thanksgiving Day declared by Congress was a “half a gill of rice and a tablespoon of vinegar!” In mid-February there was more than a week when the men received no provisions at all.
From the beginning he tirelessly traveled throughout the camp, his very presence bringing strength to his men. His heart was for his men as well as for his country. As Washington observed his naked and distressed soldiers, he
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said, “I feel superabundantly for them, and from my soul I pity those miseries which it neither in my power to relieve or prevent.” Washington knew that the cause for which they fought was well worth any price—even the suffering at Valley Forge—for they purchased liberty, not only for them, but for the generations to come. While at Valley Forge, blood was not shed in battle, yet the American Army shed much blood. “The blood that stained this ground,” writes Henry Brown, “did not rush forth in the joyous frenzy of the fight; it fell drop by drop from the heart of a suffering people. “They who once encamped here in the snow fought not for conquest, not for power, not for glory, not for their country only, not for themselves alone. They served here for Posterity; they suffered here for the Human Race; they bore here the cross of all the peoples; they died here that freedom might be the heritage of all.” In this most difficult of times, General Washington constantly relied upon God and trusted in Him for success. God was faithful to answer his prayers, and through Washington He eventually established our independence and secured the beginning of the most free and prosperous nation the world has ever seen. Excerpted with permission from Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. McDowell.
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, 2013
September 12-14
Reconciled MENDING BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR FAMILY
BY ANDY STANLEY
Andy Stanleyder of North Point Ministries foun Pastor, author and
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Women’s Conference 2013 speaker, Andy Stanley, knows firsthand the importance of fighting for the relationships in your family. After enduring a tumultuous season with his father and being compelled by the love of God, Andy discovered the importance of taking that first step toward reconciliation.
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Everybody has a family. What does yours look like? Have problems caused separation between family members? Are you at odds with someone? Maybe you can relate to one of these scenarios:
Get to know Andy Stanley
“I haven’t talked to my father in years. I don’t care.” “My mom dropped out of our family when I was 15 years old. I don’t care.” “My older brother embarrassed the family. I don’t care.”
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“My son—I don’t know what I did wrong with him. I don’t care.” I’ve run into a lot of people who don’t seem to care. They used to care, but it was so emotionally complicated that they decided to quit caring. But when it comes to conflicts within your family, one of the worst lies you can tell yourself is, “I don’t care.” Here’s the problem: you can say you don’t care. You can turn your back on those people, but there is always going to be a big bungee cord attached to your belt loop. You can run away from them, but that tension will keep increasing until one day the bungee cord snaps you back to that moment when you decided to stop caring. Suddenly you’re flooded with emotions you haven’t felt in a long time. And all of those things from your past begin to affect your current life and relationships. The Father Dynamic — Where it becomes most dramatic is in your relationship with your father. We care about other relationships, but when it comes to that dad thing, it runs so deep and can be so painful.
Joyce welcomes Andy Stanley on the Enjoying Everyday Life television broadcast May 24. Check your local TV listing for stations or go to joycemeyer.org/broadcast.
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You can tell yourself the same thing, but deep down you do care. And it’s not just with your father. It could be a prodigal son or daughter, the mom who wasn’t a very good mom, or the brother who embarrassed you and your family. Why Should We Reconcile Our Relationships? — As Christians, we have to do this. As followers of Jesus, His love for us compels us to say “no� to self and “yes� to whatever He’s asking of us. And He’s asking us to be messengers of His reconciliation.
No More Excuses — You may think the problem your family has is too big, that people will think you are condoning wrong behavior, or that it will never work. And you might be right on all of those counts. But the fact still remains: God created you to care. He desires for you to be reconciled in your family and in all of your relationships. You might be surprised. Attempts at reconciliation always make a positive difference in someone, and many times it’s in the one who cares enough to try to make it happen.
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At that moment, I didn’t care what anyone else thought about my writing or all the trouble we’d had in our relationship. Thousands of people think I’m a pretty good writer, but only his words seem to matter. It’s because no matter how much I try to tell myself I don’t care, I do care what he thinks.
to reconcile with others, it’s like we’re saying, “You can be reconciled to God in spite of your sin, but I won’t be reconciled to you because of your sin.�
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In my book, Deep & Wide, there’s a chapter where I tell all about the tumultuous times between my dad, Pastor Charles Stanley, and me. I read this chapter to my dad before it was printed to get his take on it. His response took me by surprise. He said, “Andy, first of all, you’re an excellent writer.�
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To reconcile means to take two things that are incompatible and make them compatible. Through Christ, we’re reconciled to God. He took us—when we were at odds with Him—and sent His perfect Son to make it possible for us to be reconciled to Him. He pursued reconciliation with us. We have all these reasons for not reconciling with people in our lives, but God says, “You have to reconcile with them because I reconciled with you.� And when we refuse
Register Today! joycemeyer.org/lovelife
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“When we refuse to reconcile with others, it’s like we’re saying, ‘You can be reconciled to God in spite of your sin, but I won’t be reconciled to you because of your sin.’�
, 2013
September 12-14
The Sounds of Worship INTRODUCING THE LOVE LIFE WOMEN’S CONFERENCE MUSICAL GUESTS
Matt Redmwarinter Singer and Song
BY ROBERTA RAND
Music and worship play an important role in Joyce’s conferences. This year’s women’s conference features some of Christian music’s most talented artists.
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Matt Redman — Matt Redman is a Christian worship leader and songwriter based in Brighton, England. He has cowritten some of today’s most popular worship music, including, “Our God,” written with Jonas Myrin, Chris Tomlin and Jesse Reeves. “One thing I’ve tried to discover as a writer of worship songs is how to learn from the past but Jesus Culture — In 1999, Kim Walker-Smith, Chris Quilala lean into the future,” Matt said in one and Melissa How held the first Jesus Culture conference interview. “I want to excavate and inat Bethel Church in Redding, California. The heart of these novate—find some treasure that speaks gatherings was to serve other churches and lead young to us today, but at the same time, crepeople to experience the radical love of God. Eventually, the ate worship that’s relevant and fresh.” group felt called to expand their outreach, taking their muMany of Matt’s songs have been sung sic and ministry to cities and campuses around the world. in churches and worship gatherings “Our goal is to see people worldwide experience God’s exaround the world, including, “Blessed travagant love and power through the medium of worship,” Be Your Name,” and “10,000 Reasons says Banning Liebsher, co-director of Jesus Culture. “Jesus (Bless the Lord),” which garnered two Culture is not just a band,” he stresses. “It’s a movement.” 2013 Grammy Awards. He’s also the author of several books of advice for “Wherever we are in the world, people are just hungry to worworship leaders, including, The Heart of ship,” says Kim Walker-Smith. “You come to an event and see Worship Files, and Inside Out Worship. people consistently looking for an encounter with God.”
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Natalie Grant — A powerhouse vocalist, songwriter and charismatic performer, Natalie Grant is a Grammy Award nominee and five-time GMA Female Vocalist of the Year. Grant has achieved a formidable foothold in mainstream media and radio, but it’s the Gospel message that’s her deepest passion. Speaking about today’s young women she says, “We need to tell this generation what real love is—that real love can only be found through a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ.” With the release of her newest album, Love Revolution, Natalie is determined to see God’s message of hope and love be a catalyst for unprecedented change in the world. “It’s not about wowing the masses with how great I can sing,” she says. “It’s simply about undeniably proclaiming Jesus Christ through my music.”
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“It started with a couple of hundred people coming to our conferences,� says musician Chris Quilala recalling the early days of Jesus Culture. “It was exciting to be at the beginning of something.� Today, Jesus Culture plays to arena-sized crowds across the United States and in cities throughout Australia and England. Christy Nockels — As the daughter of a pastor and a piano teacher, Christy
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Dove Award nominations. Christy released her first solo album, Life Light Up, in 2009. In April 2012, she released her second album, Into the Glorious. Christy’s experience of writing her newest album dovetails with this year’s theme for the Women’s Conference: your identity in Christ.“ In 2010, I thought I was ready to write for this recording,â€? Christy writes on her website. “But‌I couldn’t get traction with the songs. I felt like God very gently said to me, ‘Are you really ready to write this record?’ I started to get the picture that to write the record He wanted me to write, I had to lay down any agenda I had and let Him do a deep
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work in my heart. I went through intense discipleship with my brother, a life and leadership coach. The focus was on ‘identity’‌who I am because of Whose I am, and not because of what I do. I spent three months remembering Jesus, remembering I’m a daughter of God and that there’s no better place from which to lead and live my life.â€? Roberta Rand is a staff writer for Joyce Meyer Ministries.
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Nockels was born with a love of music and God’s Word. “My cause in life is to be a songwriter for my generation to proclaim Jesus’ renown,� she says. Christy and her husband, Nathan, have recorded five albums and several number-one radio singles with their group, Watermark (now disbanded). They have also received numerous
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“One thing I’ve tried to discover as a writer of worship songs is how to learn from the past but lean into the future.� — Matt Redman
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real life P E R S P E C T I V E S
was easy to see that ongoing support is critical. People affected by the disaster are already feeling forgotten, alone and desperate for help. And they are open to anyone willing to help in any way they can. Their situation reminds me of something I heard once: “People often don’t know they are poor, but they do know when they are cold or hungry or hurting.” These people are definitely hurting and need our help. One eye-opening experience I had was hearing some people say that it wasn’t government agencies that were there for them in the midst of the crisis. It was churches, ministries and humanitarian organizations that were ready and willing to help. Simply put, it was people who love God and love others.
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Making Jesus Unavoidable
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BY MICHAEL MESSNER
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A COUPLE MONTHS after Hurricane Sandy devastated the East Coast, I was able to visit with some of the families affected in Queens and Staten Island. Although Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries, responded immediately after the hurricane to provide disaster relief, the purpose of this trip was to see how we can help people on a long-term basis. And it
It is amazing how barriers drop when people are overwhelmed in life. Many of the people I met would normally reject anything connected with the name of Jesus. But in their moment of tragedy, they were gladly accepting any help that came from those who act kindly in His name. In moments like these, our team is also able to share the good news of Jesus through simple acts of kindness. We understand that there will be some who hear about Jesus and will reject Him. But our job is to present Him in such a way that they cannot avoid Him. It’s something we can all do. By sharing the love of God after disasters like a hurricane, or even in our routine, everyday life, we are making Jesus known to the people around us—we’re making Him unavoidable. Michael Messner is the Director of Domestic Outreach for Hand of Hope, Joyce Meyer Ministries World Missions.
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Fill your life with one good habit after another and they will eventually crowd out the old habits you wish would go away. With God’s help, any
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