The story behind
y b d e r o t s e r was how it all began, one man, and one woman, obedient to a call, providing spiritual support to the homeless. They play riveting music and offer encouragement and prayer support everywhere they go. Many homeless shelters are founded on Christian principles. They make a huge difference breaking the cycle of poverty, but there are still many needs left unmet due to the sheer gravity of the homeless situation. This is where Facing Goliath shines, because Dave and Amber Paulsen help daily on the streets to meet those unseen emotional and spiritual needs. Music, prayer, and being real friends who visit regularly are the main staples of this unique ministry.. They even hand out bibles, CDs, and other resources to leave a lasting impact.
Compassionate, life giving, song and story.
How did Facing Goliath begin?
I was playing music and just sharing the songs God had given,
What is the story behind the name?
and trying to bless people. As I was working, I would walk by in the The name reminds you that there is still hope in the Lord, that God still freezing cold and see someone sleeping in a bus stop, and I wondered conquers giants like he did through a small shepherd boy called David. how he could survive there. God wants those people to know how He What are the needs met by Facing Goliath? loves them. He desires to have a relationship with them. Spiritual needs are what we focus on. Christ said, “Man I was 24 when I first came to know Christ, and even since does not live by bread alone, but by the very word of God.” He also the 1990’s I felt a strong calling to help the hopeless and homeless. wants people to be fed, clothed, and sheltered, and so we partner with I was so amazed by His love that I wanted to give away that love to shelters. I wouldn’t feel comfortable doing what we do if their need for food, shelter, and other physical needs weren’t being met. But, as shelters the next person I came across on the streets. do that, they also need to be shown that they have value and that they are On Valentines Day 2007, Amber and Dave played music at a homeless loved, not by what any man says but by the Lord. shelter for the first time, and they have never been the same since. On Through our testimonies and through the stories we share in the bible, we that fateful Valentines day, as Dave sang, the strongest and most share that no problem is too great, no giant is too big for the Lord to masculine man at the shelter began to weep, his large tears forming a overcome, and that they can overcome them with the Lord. small puddle on the floor. He was led to show his vulnerability by the depth of Dave’s anointed music. This music has realism, with stories that touch even the hardest of hearts.
6 | Salt Magazine
What are your favorite bible verses?
In
give thanks;
for this is God’s will for you in Chris Jesus What is a typical week like with your ministry?
2 Timothy 2:20-22 (NLT): “In a wealthy home, some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NASB) : "In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I use it when I do not feel thankful. The Lord is changing my heart more and more to be thankful in all things, even things I wouldn't normally feel thankful for in my own strength.
What do I really need to know? A typical week with Facing Goliath involves visiting homeless shelters and making a difference on the streets. The ministry includes myself I fell away quickly from the Lord after I came to Him the and Amber, volunteers, musicians, a prayer team, and financial supporters. first time because I thought it would be easier to not be a Christian and Three days a week, we visit various shelters and ministries in Omaha and live in the world. My advice is to remember that we don’t live in the Lincoln, according to a regular schedule. Some of the places we visit are: world anymore but live for a greater kingdom. We should be living for Sienna Francis House eternal rewards, not for this world. I wish I would have known the Open Door Mission power of God’s word, prayer, having a strong community of believers Starfish Ministries around you, and going to church weekly. Lydia House Mohm’s Place Stay faithful to the Lord as He leads us down a long journey, Concerts at The Hub because He is faithful and never gives up on us. Remain faithful, and Lincoln People's City Mission through our obedience, it opens the door for Him to work. Confession of Last Sunday Dinner (at 14th and Farnam) sin and the power of God’s word sets people free. InCommon Community Development Commontable
A message is also presented with the music. The remainder of the week is spent raising funds. We update our website and facebook, as well as email newsletters to share how we are reaching the homeless and being Jesus’ hands and feet. What will take your ministry to the next level?
I work outside of the non-profit, which is a full-time endeavor in itself. Please pray for the finances of this ministry so we can concentrate more on ministering rather than fundraising. We are so appreciative of the current donors and praise God for what He has done! Prayer itself is a major need. We are always looking for recommendations for places to serve, especially if you have a connection there somehow.
For more information please visit www.facingGoliath.org.