REAL PEOPLE | REAL STORIES | REAL HOPE
Quarterly Publication Issue 4 2013
Aha ! MOMENTS w o r G ! p U
Fear Is
NOT Real
Plus…
Pastor’s Perspective • In His Wakes • Champion’s Heart News • VL Outreach
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
Aha Moments! Have you ever had an aha moment? You know, that moment in your life where something suddenly became so clear that you couldn’t help but wonder, “How in the world did I never see this before?” Over the last decade, I’ve had many of those moments. I’ve had aha moments about myself, finances, relationships, health, and most importantly, about the Lord. As I’ve sought the Lord through prayer and the reading of His Word, and with an attitude of ‘teach me’ Lord, He has been so faithful to reveal precious nuggets of truths about Himself and what it truly means to follow Him. These revelations have brought such clarity within my spirit and actually changed the way I think, speak, and act. In this issue of Victorious Living, I asked our submitters to share their aha moments… moments of revelations where God showed them something so powerful that it literally rocked their worlds and changed them from the inside out. I have so enjoyed reading these stories. I trust you will too! They are proof of God’s constant desire to teach us more about Himself, ourselves, and the world around us. If you are a believer, I am sure you have had plenty of your own aha moments. Would you consider sharing them with our readers? Revelation 12:11 says we overcome the enemy by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. Your testimony of God’s love, faithfulness, and provision has power! It can literally defeat the enemy and help someone experience victory! Write to us or visit www.kojministries.org to submit your story for consideration to be included in our magazine.
If after reading Victorious Living, you have been blessed in some way… either encouraged in your faith or challenged spiritually… I ask that you support this outreach. Share Victorious Living with someone who needs encouragement. Also, consider financially supporting Victorious Living so that we can continue to expand its reach. As you’ll read on page 19, we have a tremendous opportunity to expand into the Florida prison system where we can literally impact thousands of lives! I believe Florida is just the beginning… but we need your help to move forward one prison at a time to touch one life at a time. Help us help others have VICTORIOUS LIVING! As you’ll read in ‘Ministry News,’ pages 19-21, God is expanding each of our ministry divisions into exciting new territories! I, along with the directors of In His Wakes and Champion’s Heart are witnessing God’s power and provision like never before! These are truly exciting times! We are humbled to be a part of what God is doing in this earth and we invite you to join us! Thank you for your prayers and partnership,
Publisher/Editor Kristi Overton Johnson Assistant Editor Charlene Jung Contributors Nevin and Roberta Blair Sandy Burdick Linda Cubbedge Ron Curll Amanda Cumbass Jan Tharrington Dorfer Bonnie Hagemann Donna Hannah Kristi Overton Johnson Charlene Jung Maureen Lendzion Carter McCain Jeannie McKean Steve Melton Nate Miller Myra Monroe Rob Morford Dr. James Peoples Martha Monroe Schuon Joanie Tyson Creative Director/Graphic Design Amy Zackowski • amy@whisperingdog.com Advertising advertise@championsheart.net Victorious Living PO Box 968 • Keystone Hts, FL 32656 352.478.2098 • fax 888.837.9153 Victorious Living is published quarterly in Keystone Heights, Florida. ©2013, all rights reserved by Victorious Living. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher.The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertising errors beyond the cost of the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and His incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:18-19 (NIV)
Victorious Living’s
MISSION
The mission of Victorious Living is to provide hope for the heart and help for life through the inspirational stories of people just like you. We commit to provide REAL STORIES by REAL PEOPLE so you can experience REAL HOPE!
Victorious Living’s
SUBMISSIONS
Do you have a story of victory? Share it with us! Your life story can change the life of another. Submissions should be a maximum 400 to 600 words and are subject to editing. To send your article submissions, go to www.kojministries.org and visit the Victorious Living Magazine page.
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Aha! REFRESH YOUR SOUL
Seeing Beyond The Bars In my editorial, I talked about aha moments ... those moments where God reveals something to your heart that totally changes the way you think, act, and respond. My latest aha moment was experienced in prison. It started back in the spring when an old acquaintance of mine reached out to me. He had received a copy of Victorious Living and wanted to share how much the magazine had encouraged him and other inmates. While I was traveling last August, the Lord prompted my heart to go visit this man at a Federal Penitentiary. As I walked through the security area, my heart raced. Anyone in the room could see I was obviously new to this experience. After filling out the required paper work, I sat down and waited to be called. Next to me was a sweet lady who was waiting to visit her son. As we talked, I learned that every weekend she makes the long trip to visit him. She was very excited about the fact that he would be getting out very soon. How shocked I was to find out her excitement was about an event that would take place over a yearand-a-half away! After awhile, it was my turn to walk through security and then be led in a single file line to the visiting area where I would meet with my friend who I hadn’t seen in over 8 years. As I watched the reunion of loved ones all around me, I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the reality that this is reality for so many people… a reality that had never even crossed my mind. As I waited for my friend, I asked the Lord to reveal to me what He wanted me to see. What I saw were people… inmates and their families… who desperately needed hope, encouragement, and love. I saw tired people who were hoping for a better future. I saw children without fathers, mothers without sons, and wives without husbands. I saw men in jumpsuits enjoying this luxury of contact with the outside world. I also saw the incredible impact my visit had on my friend… I heard it in his voice, I saw it in his tears. As I drove away and headed back to my reality, I wept. I wept over the families that had been torn apart. I wept over the weight of my friend’s guilt and shame, and his struggle of accepting God’s 6
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by Kristi Overton Johnson
forgiveness. I wept over his fears of not making it out of prison alive. I wept over the stories he shared with me about the men that sat within a stone’s throw from us. God was opening my eyes to something new… it was an aha moment… now the question was, “OK, God. What do you want me to do about it?” It wasn’t long before He began to show me. Within a week of my prison experience, I was invited to lunch by a friend who wanted me to meet his friend, Mr. Thomas Johnson. Turns out, Thomas, a former New York pimp and drug dealer, is now very involved with prison ministry, and has been for 17 years. Through this new relationship, doors began to open that I could have never imagined. Within a couple of weeks I had a registration number to go into any Florida State Prison. I also had an invitation for Victorious Living to be distributed in prison libraries (see page 19 for more information on this exciting opportunity!). The day I received my registration number, I received a call from a youth offender correctional facility where I was asked to speak to young men, ages 14-24, who would soon be released. As I prepared for my visit, I sat before the Lord and asked Him to pour into my heart the message He would have me deliver to these young men, men the world would say are trouble and not worth a dime (and men who I am sure I had judged quite harshly before I had ever meet a one). God answered my prayer as He prompted my heart to write the words that began to bubble up in my spirit. As I wrote, my fingers could hardly keep up! Before I knew it, a love letter was penned. (See page 8 to read the letter!) I believe with all my heart this message was straight from the throne of God, intimately designed to encourage the hearts of these men. As I walked through security and heard the metal door slam behind me, I was once again sur-
As I watched the reunion of loved ones all around me, I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the reality that this is reality for so many people… a reality that had never even crossed my mind.
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prised by the peace, joy, and excitement that stirred within me. I was also amazed at the absence of fear. I wasn’t sure what lay ahead, but I knew for certain it was going to be powerful. Standing before these men, I was amazed at the immediate connection… a connection that only God could orchestrate. I mean, really, what do I have in common with these men? For starters, I’m a woman who, to be quite honest, has lived an extremely privileged life. I have parents who have continually loved and supported me from the day I was born, a godly husband, and three beautiful children. I’ve never been in trouble with the law or even been tempted to go against the grain. I’m a water skier by trade who admittedly has absolutely no clue as to what these men have experienced in their lifetime. I have no idea about the depths of their pain or struggles, and I don’t pretend to. Yet, as I stood before these men, encouraging their hearts with the Word of God, His love letter, and with the song, “Redeemed,” by Big Daddy Weave, these men sat on the edge of their seats, some with tears streaming down their faces, taking every word to heart. It was definitely good soil. I’ve spoken at hundreds of venues in my lifetime, yet never before have I been in the presence of men who were so hungry for hope and truth, so desperate for His love. My prayer is that Satan will not snatch the seeds that were sown into their hearts. At the request of the inmates, plans have already been made to return to this facility every month. The experiences of the last few months have provided many aha moments: • the power of a visit… aha! Taking the time to visit someone who is hurting can literally give them the hope to carry on another day. Never in a million years could I have estimated the impact my visit would have had on my friend at the Federal Penitentiary and the inmates at the youth facility. Dozens of letters and a mail-order pecan pie has proved that real fast! • the power of an encouraging word… aha! Giving an encouraging word to someone can spur them on to victory. It can literally change the way they look at their circumstances. • the power of God’s Word… aha! There is power when the Word of God is spoken. It has the power to transform a life from the inside out. • the power of being yourself… aha! So often I think I have to do something special for it to have value and impact. I’m realizing that just being who God made me to be (weaknesses and all), and operating in the gifts He has given to me, is truly all He asks. When I do those two things, lives are automatically blessed because God’s anointing is at work. • the power of looking beyond the bars… aha! God has given me His eyes to see what He sees when He looks into the prison system. He sees people… people worth the very life of His Son. People who have made mistakes, I don’t discount that, but who God forgives; just as He forgives me and you. They are people who need a reason for living, and who need hope for a future. They are people God has called believers to minister to. He’s commanded us to lay aside our stereotypes and judgments, and step out of our boxes so that we can touch the lives of the hopeless, the angry, and the hurting. It’s why He came… to seek and save those who are lost. I’m still in the middle of this aha moment. So far, in the Kristi Overton last few months, God has brought into my life a sex offender, Johnson is the a former pimp turned preacher, and the opportunity to be founder of a spokesperson for sexually exploited children. Interestingly Champion’s Heart, enough, He’s giving me a perspective from all sides and I’ve KOJ Ministries, seen that all sides need the healing touch of our Savior, as and In His Wakes. do I. I’m not sure I’ve grasped all the lessons yet, nor do I Kristi currently clearly know how He’d like me to proceed, but I’m all ears. resides in Florida I’m committed to look beyond the bars, to lay aside my reawith her husband, Tim, and their three soning and skewed perspective to receive His. As I do, I trust children. that He will show me all I need to know and swing wide those prison gates. V
Table of Contents Issue 4 2013
6 Aha! Seeing Beyond The Bars Kristi Overton Johnson
8 Love, God Kristi Overton Johnson
8 The God Who Sees Me Amanda Cumbass
9 I Am Not Invisible Anonymous
10 Pastor’s Perspective | Revelation
12 Bridge Over Troubled Water Ron Curll
13 Grow Up! Steve Melton
14 Right On Time! Jan Tharrington Dorfer
15 To Whom Much is Given… Much Is Required Sandy Burdick
16 Above All Kristi Overton Johnson
18 To Self With Love Kristi Overton Johnson
19 Ministry News | Victorious Living
20 Ministry News | In His Wakes
21 Ministry News | Champion’s Heart
22 A Surrendered Life Martha Monroe Schuon
23 Fear Is Not Real Bonnie Hagemann
24 Champion’s Heart Award | Jeannie McKean
24 And He Did! Jeannie McKean
25 Treasures Linda Cubbedge
26 Amazing Things Nevin and Roberta Blair
28 Able And Willing Myra Monroe
29 Tuned In Maureen Lendzion
30 To The End Of The Earth Joan Tyson
31 All The Power Charlene Jung
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Love, God
As I prepared recently to speak at a ‘graduation ceremony’ at a Florida prison, I asked the Lord to give me His message for these young men who would soon be released back into society. Within moments, the following words began to be downloaded into my heart. My fingers could hardly keep up as I penned the following message entitled, The Love of God. I believe it is a glimpse of the Lord’s heart towards all mankind ... incarcerated or free, rich or poor, believers or non-believers, men or women, young or old, red, yellow, black, or white. I pray it encourages you as much as it did the men. We all need to be reminded of God’s unconditional, unfathomable love. ~ Kristi
The Love of God John 3:16
I gave up My life for you because I love you. If you had been the only person on this earth, I still would have come and lay down My life for you. Why? Because you are precious to Me. You are the object of My love. You are worth everything to Me, even My life. When I look at you I am filled with joy. I see not your faults or the failures of your past; rather, I see the plans I have for your future. And they are good! You’ve been told by many that you’ll never amount to anything. You’ve been told you’ll never make it. You’ve been told you’re a mistake, a failure, and a disappointment. You’ve been told you are alone and without hope. But, I say different! I say you are fearfully and wonderfully made. I created you with My own hands, I breathed life into your unformed body. And, I don’t make mistakes. When I created the whole world, I saw you. I saw every day of your life before one of them came to be, and I still desired to create you. I smiled at the very thought of you for I saw what you could become in Me. I saw the gifts and talents I had placed within you and I knew if used for my glory, your life could change the world for My kingdom! It matters not what you’ve done, where you’ve come from, nor where you’ve been. It matters not what possessions you hold in your hand. It matters not what people have said. If I am for you, nothing can stop you. And, I am for you. In Me, you are victorious! No power of hell, no scheme of man, no past mistake can stop the plans I have for you. So rise up my sons, I am with you. In Me, you have all you need. I know your fears, doubts, and your pain-- give them to Me… all of them. And, rest. Be anxious over nothing, for You are not alone.
by Kristi Overton Johnson
When you walk out of those doors, I walk before you. I will lead the way… follow Me. When you walk out of those doors, I walk beside you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. I will keep you stable and cause you to move forward. Hold onto me, never let go of Me. I will never let go of you. I’ll never leave you or forsake you. When you walk out of these doors, I walk behind you. I’ve got your back so you don’t have to look back! Fear not. Move forward knowing that I am protecting you. I am fighting your battles so you don’t have to fight. You don’t have to seek revenge. I’ve got your back and I’ll make right what is wrong! Forget the past and focus on your future — it is good! It will not always be easy; but, in Me, you will be victorious. I will never fail you. I will give you the strength to take every step, to overcome every trial. I’ll give you the wisdom to make every decision. I’ll provide for your every need. I’ll also give you the desires of your heart. I will help you fulfill the call on your life. Listen not to the voices of the world or the voices in your head. Focus not on the difficult circumstances and battles ahead. Rather, listen only to Me, to My truth. The truth is, I love you with an everlasting love. The truth is, you are forgiven. The truth is, I have great plans for you. The truth is, nothing is impossible! So, grab hold of My truth, My son, grab For God so loved hold of My hand and move the world that forward with Me. You will He gave His only begotten Son, that never be disappointed! V whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16
The God Who Sees Me Recently, I found myself reading in Genesis 16. This is the passage that tells the story of Hagar and Ishmael. Verse 13 reads that Hagar gave the Lord the name, “You are the God who sees me.” That really hit me hard. To think… my God SEES me. He sees ME! Often it seems that I am just one person walking through life without ever really being seen for who I am. But my God sees me. It is one thing to say that I am never alone, that God is always there, etc. But to really know and grasp that truth is a different story. My life would never be the same if I truly understood that: • God sees me for who I am and for who He created me to be. • He will help me become that person He designed me to be. • God hears my heart’s cry and knows my fears, my doubts, and my expectations.
by Amanda Cumbass • God knows the things that make me smile and the things that make me laugh. • God sees when I fall and want to give up. • God sees when I need more of Him before I even know it. • God sees every moment of my every day—and still, He chooses me. He chooses to pursue me, to love me, to show me His mercy, and unfailing grace. Wow! That is the God I follow. He is not a God to be worshiped only in church or when things are going right. He is God, always worthy of our praise. That is breathtaking. V
Amanda is originally from Keystone Heights, FL. She is currently residing in Arizona and serving in the Air Force. You can follow Amanda on her blog at www. chosenbytheone. wordpress.com
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I Am Not Invisible I’ve had a pretty interesting life. Although most of it has been amazing, some if it was crushing. All of it has shaped who I am. I have hiked alone in the Appalachians and traveled the country in a van with 10 other people. I have friends from all over the world... from drug dealers to police officers, and saints to sinners. I’ve had friends who have spent seasons with the Pope and others whose parents were in the mafia. Throughout my life, I met presidents, politicians and celebrities… I shook the hand of Franklin Graham, played Tommy Lee’s drum set and danced on stage with Larry and Bob. I even tried to bite Ivander Hollifield’s ear while I took a picture with him (that did not go over well!). I’ve been prophesied to by Josh MacDowell and rolled my eyes at TobyMac (sorry Toby!). I have overcome health issues that should have ruined my life and have regained a family that told me to disappear, change my name, and lose their number. I put myself through college while managing employees who were twice my age and have had cut-throat negotiations with CEOs of an international corporation. I’ve mic tested to stadiums and been on stage and on the water in front of thousands of people feeling never seen and quickly forgotten. I shared the love of Christ for years and yet never heard it myself until I hit rock bottom. I’ve ministered to millionaires and been ministered to by the homeless.
I’ve kissed alligators, wrangled bulls, and co-piloted a van across the country with an iguana who hated me. I’ve ‘flown’ a plane and driven a yacht and can drive a boat or a tractor like a pro (but still can’t drive a stick shift!). I’ve surfed in a hurricane and painted through a tornado. Funny thing is, most people (including my family) don’t know all of this about me. It seems I have a knack for being invisible. You see, I’m not the most outgoing person in the room. I was brought up to understand that what I had to say probably wasn’t important.... and even if it was, it was wrong. Regardless of my reasoning, experience, or insight, I was wrong and everyone else was right. My friends were wrong, my choice of style was wrong, my hobbies were stupid, and my ambitions were unattainable, unwise, and just ridiculous. Looking back, I am blessed to see reasoning behind some of that mindset… fear, inadequacy and plain ole ‘sins of the father.’ After all, most folks parent the way they were parented… a battle I fight on a daily basis. This feeling of worthlessness and low self-esteem is a weapon that is constantly used against me. Supposedly, I am soft spoken. When I talk, I feel like I’m screaming. It is exhausting. Most of the time in social settings I am cut off or just not heard… or… reality check… ignored. In a grocery store? Forget it. I usually stop counting how many times I get cut in front of or blocked in an aisle after the first few minutes. It’s not ‘just my imagination.’ My family has watched it happen… and even ignored me themselves. I am laid back, low maintenance, and NOT the squeaky wheel, so, in a sense, I allow this to take place. At this point in my life, with my security in Christ, it’s almost comical… an annoying weapon of warfare Satan keeps in his back pocket when he really needs to turn the dagger. It’s petty, really. Something I should know and recognize. I know that God hears me. And really, that’s all that matters. There are times, though, when it seems the world is crashing down around me, when that moment of being cut off in a conversation, that e-mail or phone call that gets no response, and that person that cuts right in front of me seem to dump all the baggage and history and pain and worthlessness right on top of my head.
Anonymous
But the reality is that the person cutting me off likely has something just as important to say. The e-mail I wrote was probably too long and the mom that cut me off in the grocery store is in just as much of a hurry as I am. The beauty is that whether people hear or see me or not, my God ALWAYS sees me, ALWAYS hears me, and He CARES for me… more than I can imagine. When I realize that I am not the center of the universe and I stop to focus on what IS the center of the universe, my whole perspective changes. When I stop and look at the big picture long enough to see the little details, I see that whether I was acknowledged by my human counterparts or not, I am always acknowledged by God. My God has always listened, and has always been faithful. Even though I was shut down, shut out, and seemingly abandoned, He took all these things and turned them for good. I dreamed of things as a child… some things seemed like just that - dreams - not things that I longed for or really wished for - certainly nothing I deserved. They seemed way beyond my reach or reality. Yet I have done most of them - and am living plenty of them. I live in a place I used to long to run to. I have a life that I absolutely love, with an amazing husband and a child who make me feel like I AM the center of the universe. I do a job that I was directed to by a series of “you-can’t-do-that,” “what-a-stupid-choicethat-would-be,” and “you’re-not-good-enoughs”! Each one pointed me right to where I needed to be. Not an idea of my own and yet clearly an idea orchestrated by God. I am in awe of sunsets. I am thankful for close parking spaces in the midst of rush and chaos. I’m encouraged by that song that comes on at just the right time. Plenty of people think that God is just like all of us… busy! They think He is too busy with things more important than ‘me.’ The truth is, He is busy lavishing His love on us and showing us just how important we are. Those little things… the sunsets, songs, nature, the moments when things work out just right are not ‘coincidences.’ Rather, they are all ways that MY God speaks to me and says… I am here… I can hear you… you are important … you are My love. V
And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17-19 (NIV) www.kojministries.org 9
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PASTOR’S PERSPECTIVE
As believers walk with the Lord, the learning process is never ending. As we ‘work out our salvation’ we become more like Christ, learn more about ourselves, and discover exciting, life-changing truths about our Lord. In this segment of Pastor’s Perspective, I asked my pastor friends to share personal revelations they have had about the character of God… revelations that changed the way they believe and ultimately live.
On the following two pages are the answers of Dr. James Peoples, Rob Morford, and Carter McCain. These men have played an important role in my maturing as a Christian. All three, each of which are from different denominational backgrounds, are men of great faith who walk with the Lord daily, seeking to know Him more and make Him known. I pray their revelations will help you in your walk with the Lord. ~ Kristi
?
Question: In your walk with the Lord, what has been one of the greatest revelations that you have learned about the character of God, a revelation that changed the way you believed and ultimately lived?
by Rob Morford
When asked, “What revelation has had the greatest impact on your life,” I had to go back many years. Although I grew up in the church, I was 28 years old before I became ‘born again.’ Although I had believed in God and in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus from childhood, I had never made Him the Lord of my life. I was too busy searching for happiness in the world. When excelling in athletics and academics failed to give me a sense of worth, I decided to go the other direction in life and do destructive things. This caused me to feel even worse about myself. Numerous times as a young adult I made deals with God concerning my life and my becoming a Christian. “God,” I’d say, “if you just get me out of this mess I’ll start going to church again.” God always came through for me. I, on the other hand, never came through for Him. Once I’d get out of my mess, I’d then make God the promise, “God, when I get good enough, I’ll come to You.” You need to understand that I had walked out of the church at the age of 16, telling my parents that churches were filled with hypocrites and I was not going to be one of them. This compounded my need to ‘get good enough’ to come to Jesus.
I am not trying to give my testimony here, but setting the stage for my greatest revelation. At 28, my eyes were opened to the truth that God didn’t need me to ‘get good enough’ before I came to Him; rather, He wanted to take me just as I was… mistakes, insecurities, and everything that comprised my life. On my own, I would could never ‘get good enough.’ I needed God before any change could take place. With this revelation, I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ on September 10, 1978. At that moment, I became ‘born again;’ the following week I was filled with the Holy Spirit. My greatest revelation came the next year. I was studying the Bible and listening to tapes daily. One night while studying for a Sunday School lesson, it hit me… ‘the revelation of righteousness.’ It was a revelation hot off the press from heaven, just for me. Righteousness is the ability to stand in the presence of God without the sense of guilt or inferiority. A freedom entered my life when I realized the truth that I could go boldly before God, into His throne room of grace. Scripture after scripture started coming to life with this one revelation. With the fear of not having to ‘get good enough’ removed, I started growing spiritually by leaps and bounds, drawing closer and closer to God.
For me, this revelation all hinged on one scripture, “For He (God the Father) made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (II Cor. 5:21, NKJV, parenthesis author). This verse tells me that God swapped my sins for His righteousness. The sinless Lamb of God was transformed into the Scapegoat so that I could be made into the righteousness of God. This righteousness cannot be earned or ‘experienced,’ nor is it deserved. It is a gift from God that has to be received by faith. This revelation opened the door for me to see ‘who I am in Christ.’ I am ‘good enough’ in His eyes, not because of what I have done, but because of His Son. When He looks at me, He sees His Son. Knowing this makes living so much easier! No longer can Satan whisper in my ear, “You’re not good enough; you’re not worthy!” Righteousness is part of the salvation package that Satan hopes you never discover. Why? Because there is power in righteousness. If you are struggling like I was for years, trying to get or be ‘good enough’ but always failing, I pray God opens your eyes to see and receive this revelation. Your life will never be the same. V Rob Morford is pastor of Community Church of Keystone Heights. He and his wife, Dotty, have three children and two grandchildren.
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PASTOR’S PERSPECTIVE
Enlarged FAITHFUL Expectations
by Dr. James Peoples When asked to share about something the Lord has taught me about Himself, I recall the lesson I learned from the Lord when I was in high school. This lesson continues to bring me comfort and hope. When I was in high school, I had a 1967 Volkswagen Bug. Frankly, this faded orange rust bucket was an ugly piece of junk, but it got me back and forth to school and work. One thing in particular about this car was that the windshield wipers didn’t work. In the six months I owned this car, they never worked. Anytime it rained, I would literally roll down the window, stick my arm out the door and wipe the windshield with my hand. One morning I got in my car to go to school, and like the old expression says… it was raining cats and dogs – I mean it was really raining hard. I knew it “I call this to mind, and therefore was far too dangerous to drive without I have hope: The Lord’s mercies windshield wipers. So before I cranked never cease, for His compassions up my car, I put my hand on the windnever fail. They are new every shield wiper switch and prayed that God morning; Great is Your faithfulness!” would ‘heal’ my windshield wipers. Lamentations 3:21-23 (NIV) I put the key in the ignition, turned on the switch, and immediately those For the last 19 years, Dr. James windshield wipers started waving back Peoples has served as the and forth. My hands started waving Senior Pastor of Trinity Baptist in Keystone Heights, FL. back and forth in praise to God who had Pastor James and his wife, answered my prayer. Those windshield Jeannie, have been blessed wipers, wipers that had never worked with two beautiful children, in the six months I had owned the car, Emily and Dana. worked anytime I needed them from that day forward. I had a glorious time in my driveway that morning worshiping and thanking the Lord. I had a need, and God immediately answered my prayer! That is not the way God always answers prayer. Sometimes His answers are immediate – and we’re thankful for those times. Other times, His answers are delayed; and sometimes His answer is ‘no’ in that He has a better plan. Yet, I always remember this story because I can always look back to that moment as a specific time that God clearly answered my prayer. As I recall that day, it does for me what Jeremiah said in Lamentations 3:21-23, “I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope: The Lord’s mercies never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness!” (NIV) Let God’s faithfulness to you in the past encourage you as you wait for Him to work in your life today. He’s been faithful too many times for you to doubt Him now. Continue to look to the Lord, “casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV) V
by Carter McCain When I ask myself this question, I’m immediately taken back to the tiny studio apartment my roommate and I shared my second year of graduate school. We were sprawled out on the carpet, Bibles and concordances open, each looking to make the next blow against the other in our latest theological debate. That’s when we found it: a passage we had both read before but never really read. This time it hit us, and I distinctly remember both of us feeling angry that in all the messages we had heard preached, we had never been taught this. Here’s the passage: For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin. For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. (Romans 7:14-20, ESV) In Paul’s Spirit-led transparency we found a picture of our own condition as young men who wanted desperately to please God and found ourselves consistently unable to do what we knew was right. What we did not find in Paul’s words was the deep, nagging anxiety we were experiencing… that sense that we had some darker, rebellious part that was ‘the real us’ while the part that wanted to please God was just a phase, or worse, a complete fraud. Paul flips this lie on its head: the dark part of me is not the real me but “sin that dwells within me!” I can’t communicate how joyful and liberating this revelation was for us. What we found there was not an excuse for our mistakes this is no ‘devil made me do it’ theology. Rather we found an invitation to keep fighting because we had been given a new identity. ‘I’ agree that the law is good; ‘I’ want to please God. Because I now knew that ‘I’ was honoring God, I was free to fight (and even to fail!) without fearing what it says about me. Struggle became the thing that confirmed my relationship with God rather than what cast it into doubt. As I look back, this ‘floor time’ with God was what prepared me to mature and receive everything that has come my way. It improved how I read the Scriptures, changed my idea of how God sees me, and enlarged my expectation of what the Holy Spirit could do in and through me. It opened my life up to receive joy, which if I remember right is one of those things that Christians should have.V Carter McCain is currently living in Dallas where he is studying at Perkins School of Theology at SMU. He and his wife Karen, have three wonderful children.
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by Ron Curll After reading recent issues of Victorious Living, in particular, Kristi’s article about Christ’s temptations in the desert (spring issue 2013), I couldn’t help but think about my own spiritual journey. My life has been filled with many temptations, falls, and set backs. Like everyone, I often stumble and fall short of living a Christ-like life. With the passing of each day, it seems increasingly difficult to live a life that honors Christ, especially in the midst of the moral and spiritual decay of our country. One of my biggest struggles is accepting God’s forgiveness after I fall. It seems so much easier to ‘beat myself up’ over what I did wrong. I really enjoy reading Victorious Living, not only for it’s content, but also because I personally know many of the contributors. Or, do I? It seems in every issue I discover something new about these people I thought I ‘knew.’ Often, a contributor will openly describe a deep seated problem, a troubled past, or a life-changing illness or event. I am always amazed by these revelations, as I often feel that I’m the only one with any problems. Surely, no one else shares my issues? On my own, it’s a tall order to live like Jesus and to reflect Him in all I do and say. I often feel I greatly fail Him. Romans 3:23 brings me great comfort. It reads, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (NIV) At times I fall short by judging others or being too quick with my words. Sometimes I fall short because of my inaction. I simply don’t take the opportunity to be a good disciple to someone else. I’m too busy. When I fall short of God’s glory, I often find myself saying, “Forgive me, Lord.” Accepting that forgiveness, however, doesn’t come so easy. Recently our church held a four-week small group class aimed to help believers discover the abundant life Jesus promised in John 10:10. It was during one
of these small group meetings that I finally got it. I finally grasped the truth that I’m not the only one who struggles in my spiritual walk. I’m not the only one who has problems and needs forgiveness. One evening after class, the song “Like a Bridge over Troubled Water”, a 1970’s hit by Simon and Garfunkel popped into my head. It’s an oldie, but a goodie! These lyrics are some of my favorites: When you’re weary Feeling small When tears are in your eyes I will dry them all I’m on your side When times get rough And friends just can’t be found Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down When you’re down and out When you’re on the street When evening falls so hard I will comfort you I’ll take your part When darkness comes And pain is all around Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down If you need a friend I’m sailing right behind Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind
I finally grasped the truth that I’m not the only one who struggles in my spiritual walk. I’m not the only one who has problems and needs forgiveness.
As I pondered these words, I realized it was time to let Christ ease my mind and comfort my heart. It was time for me to lay down all my guilt and accept the fact that I am human and make mistakes. This song reminded me that God was forever on my side and ready to be a bridge over my troubled waters. None of us will ever be exactly like Jesus… completely without sin. However, if we submit our lives to Him and strive to do His will daily, we will become more like Him. As we accept His forgiveness and move forward with our eyes on Him (not on our failure), He will help us overcome our weaknesses and transform us from the inside out. No, our mistakes will never completely go away, but God isn’t looking for perfection, He’s looking for progress. As He becomes our bridge over troubled water, we will be able to make that progress.V Ron Curll, author of Wheels of Faith, is an internationally ranked swimmer, gold medalist Paralympian, and wheelchair athlete. Ron resides in Greenville, NC with his wife, Sue. He still enjoys competing in 5k and 10k road races and hand cycling races, as well as water skiing, kayaking, basketball and scuba diving. He is a sought-after guest speaker for civic organizations, as well as church and student groups.
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Grow Up! 1 Peter 2:2 (NLT) tell us, “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow…” As Christians we are to desire the pure milk of God’s Word so that we can mature. Just as newborn babies need milk to grow, we, as newborn believers, need the basic principles of the Word of God to grow also. In 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Paul rebukes fellow believers because of their immaturity. “Dear brothers and sisters, when I was with you I couldn’t talk to you as I would to spiritual people. I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though
As we discipline ourselves to become disciples and walk in God’s Word, we will mature. We will be weaned from the milk and move onto meat and become what we were created to be… fruit bearing Sons of God.
by Steve Melton
you were infants in the Christian life. I had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, because you weren’t ready for anything stronger. And you still aren’t ready, for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world?” (NLT) God expects His children to grow up and lay aside ‘baby-ish’ ways. But so often we (Christians) remain as spiritual babies. Like children, we scream and cry when things don’t go our way. We fight out of our emotions (flesh) rather than being led by the Spirit of God that lives inside us. Because of this… envy, strife, and division run rampant in our churches and our communities. I’m always amazed at how quickly I can go from being at peace to wanting to beat someone over the head! I’ll never forget the day I lost my peace when a driver cut me off. I was so angry and believe me, I wanted to let that driver know a thing or two. When I finished my little tantrum inside my car, I looked in my rear-view mirror at my precious granddaughter and quickly realized how foolishly I had acted. Suddenly, a picture of a grown up man wearing a diaper popped up in my mind. Can you imagine if every time we got in the ‘flesh,’ whether it be through our harsh words, gossiping tongue, selfish actions, or making poor choices in our daily lives, we suddenly appeared wearing a big diaper, complete with a pacifier in our mouths? We’d look ridiculous! But sometimes I do think it is exactly what we need to happen! I dare to say many of us might hold back that gossiping tongue or that judgmental mindset if we truly realized how distasteful our behavior is in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. In Romans 8:14 (NLT), Paul, once again speaking to believers, says “for all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.” True children of God are people who allow the Spirit of God to lead
Can you imagine if every time we got in the ‘flesh,’ whether it be through our harsh words, gossiping tongue, selfish actions, or making poor choices in our daily lives, we suddenly appeared wearing a big diaper, complete with a pacifier in our mouths?
them in their words and actions. This should be the goal of every child of God… to be led by God’s Spirit and live as mature, fruit-bearing children of God. This is truly what pleases God (Romans 8:8). To be Spirit-led we must be Spirit-fed. This involves emptying ourselves of the cares of this world and our perceived rights and in its place, filling and renewing our minds with the Word of God daily. It involves being a disciple and being a doer of the Word, both of which require discipline… • discipline to get up earlier and spend time in God’s Word, • discipline to turn off the television, the computer, or the game box and get in the Word; • discipline to obey God’s Word; • discipline to hold our tongues and wait for God’s Spirit to take control; and • discipline to give people and situations to God rather than taking matters into our own hands. As we discipline ourselves to become disciples and walk in God’s Word, we will mature. We will be weaned from the milk and move onto meat and become what we were created to be… fruit bearing Sons of God. V
Steve Melton graduated from Rhema Bible College in 1988. Most recently, he was on staff at Community Church Keystone Heights. Steve and his wife, Sharon, recently relocated to the St. Augustine area where they are attending Anchor Faith Church.
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Right on Time!
by Jan Tharrington Dorfer
Jan Tharrington Dorfer is a native of Garner, NC. Jan enjoys motivational speaking to ladies and youth groups at various in NC, VA, and SC. Jan loves any day by the water… whether it be a lake, river, or her favorite… the sea.
After becoming a Christian in 2002, I began attending a very anointed Bible teaching church in Dunn, NC. I was a new believer, learning all about the Bible, God’s call on our life, prayer, and obedience, among other things. One Wednesday night before Bible study, a group of people were gathered in the chapel chatting and fellow-shipping with one another. As I looked around the sanctuary, my eyes fell on Dimitri, an exchange student from the Ukraine who was living in the US attending Bible College at Campbell University. I didn’t know much about this young man other than he was a man of great faith and little income. I had heard testimony of how Dimitri trusted the Lord to provide all of his needs as he followed God’s call on his life. As my eyes focused on Dimitri, the Lord whispered to my heart, “Buy his books.” “But Lord,” I questioned, “college has already been in session for several weeks, surely he has already purchased his books by now.” Yet, the word was so strong, short, and clear, I knew it must be from the Lord. After the service, I walked over to the lead pastor and shared what the Lord had laid on my heart. His eyes teared up as he began to share how Dimitri had just come to him before the service asking for prayer for God to supernaturally provide his books for college. Realizing Dimitri’s need, the pastor had offered to give him the money right then as the church often invested in the lives of young pastors. Dimitri had refused his generous offer with these words, “No, thank you. I want to see God provide for my books through someone that has
Boy, is God an on-time God, or what? He may not come when we want Him, but He’s never late!
no idea about my need so that I know it was divinely appointed by God.” I asked the pastor the cost of the books and I wrote out the check. Dimitri was able to purchase his books the very next day, and not a minute too soon! Two of the professors had told him prior to his receiving the money that he was not allowed to return to class if he had not purchased his books. Unless God provided, Dimitri was going to have to drop those classes. Boy, is God an on-time God, or what? He may not come when we want Him, but He’s never late! Glory to God for the faith of this young man who is now an ordained minister and spreading the Word of God across many continents. Glory to God that He would choose to use me as His vessel to pour out provision into this young man’s life. God is simply amazing! Do you have a real need right now? Trust Him for your provision. Just as God provided for Dimitri, He will also provide for you… right on time! V
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Kristi Overton Johnson, founder of Champion’s Heart, is a dynamic interview and a sought-after faith-based motivational speaker. She has spoken throughout the U.S., and in the Czech Republic, Canada, France, and Singapore. She shares her lifetime of achievement and victories as well as her faith and life lessons as a wife, mother, and ministry leader in a way that draws and challenges the audience, captivates hearts, and activates faith. She shares openly about her journey of faith and the lessons God continually teaches her on the waters of life. Her passion is to encourage hearts to persevere through trials by looking past one’s circumstances to the One who is able to overcome anything!
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To Whom Much is Given… …Much is Required by Sandy Burdick
When asked to share what God has been speaking to me about recently, I immediately thought, “Hmm… All I’ve heard is dead silence lately. I guess that means no article for me!” Often I read the Bible and I feel as if it was written just for me… for that exact moment in time. I’ve had instances where, after reading the Word, I knew so strongly in my spirit just what I was supposed to do or say. I’ve also experienced such profound incidents with God that I can’t even explain them through words, even to this very day. I just knew without a doubt, that it was God moving in my life. This, however, has not been one of those ‘speaking’ seasons. I’d like it to be, but lately it’s been pretty quiet on the spiritual front. Yet, when I asked God what I should write about He instantly provided an answer… Gratitude… proving once again that He is never far away — even when I’m not ‘feeling’ Him. Over the past couple of months, I’ve come to realize how incredibly blessed I am. This realization has led me to experience an intense period of Gratitude. No, that’s not a typo. I intentional capitalized the G as, to me, my Gratitude is looming as large as any monument. It’s been so powerful in my life that it has even led me to examine my life’s priorities and pray about the direction I, as a believer, should go. Nothing major has happened in my life to trigger this sense of Gratitude. No miraculous healing has taken place, no earth-shattering event has come my way. But recently, even the smallest things in life are somehow becoming a wonder to me… even a trip through the grocery store or mall! As I go about my day, I can’t help but marvel at all the choices we, as Americans, are presented. We have the ability to choose between dozens of cereal brands; we have a myriad of fruit, vegetable, and meat choices. We scour the mall seeking the perfect shoes, pants, or jewelry. I’ve suddenly been given an entirely new perspective on how very blessed we are simply to have been born and live in this great country… whether we are rich or poor by our own modern standards. I find myself, more than ever, thanking God that I was born in America. I think of all the people merely
surviving in the world’s poorest countries, living under conditions I can only imagine… walking miles every day for often dirty water, being in need of life’s most basic things. I can’t help but think about all the mothers struggling to feed their children, who have to listen to their cries daily. Can you imagine? Then I recall the many times in my life when I felt so very poor and forgotten. I realize now that even at the lowest points of my life, I was rich… ranking among the top 5% of the world in income. This was true even during the times I was at poverty level. God has opened my eyes to the fact that my life, regardless of my immediate circumstances, has been filled with riches and privileges. I’ve begun to realize that most of our terrible moments are really not that terrible at all. They are simply a result of living in a First World country. Do these complaints sound familiar? The traffic is terrible. My Internet is down. My cell phone reception is lousy. My work hours have been cut (or increased). My boss/spouse is being a jerk. My air conditioning is on the blink. The waitress was so slow that my food got cold. My favorite program has been canceled. I have no time to relax. My house is a mess. My kids/dogs/jobs are driving me nuts! This is often what we consider a ‘bad day.’ I’ve come to ask myself, “How insanely petty are these issues?” Not by our modern standards, I realize… but by God’s standards. It’s not that God doesn’t care or understand our problems. He does! He cares about every aspect of our lives. The problem is, however, is that we have gotten so focused on these little inconveniences that we have lost sight of our many blessings. We’ve forgotten to be grateful. We’ve also forgotten that out of our riches we are called to bless others. To whom much is given, much is required. (Luke 12:48) We, as Americans, have been given much!
Like many of you, I’ve never gone long periods without food (except during my crash diets). I’ve never literally had nothing to wear. (Although there were times I wore just two outfits to school, washing and alternating them daily.) I’ve never had absolutely no structure to live in, however modest (even when our home burned to the ground). I’ve also never had to watch my children suffer with, and often die from, easily preventable diseases. The list could go on and on. With this new realization, I am learning to live in an ‘attitude of gratitude’ and also step up in my responsibility to be a blessing to the world. There are so many people who have such great needs and you and I are called to help them. Like many people, I have always given to charities, helped when I heard of someone in need, participated in events for the needy. I’ve done all the ‘good church-girl’ things. And I’ve truly always wanted to help. But God is showing me there is a difference between doing these ‘good church-girl’ things and truly being moved to help those in need on a consistent basis… to give out of my blessings at all times. As a Christian, more is demanded of me. As a believer, more is expected of me. Over these past months, God has been making it ever so clear to me what stepping up to the plate really means. So while I may have felt I was not hearing from God, I realize now that He has been working in me all along. He’s opened my eyes to His amazing provision in my life and in the lives of those around me. And He has been opening my eyes to what He wants me to do for those who have not been as fortunate as I have been. As Lee Greenwood’s song goes, I am “Proud to be an American,” but I’m becoming acutely aware that the good fortune of being an American means that more is required of me in the face of what is lacking throughout the world. V Sandy Burdick spent most of her career in marketing, publishing, and advertising before retiring to the Jacksonville area. Since selling her agency, she and her husband, Les, are enjoying their children, grandchildren, and volunteer work.
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Above All
by Kristi Overton Johnson
Recently my daughter, Ivy, and I were studying the life of Jesus, in particular, the moment when He extended an invitation to His disciples to follow Him. As we read these accounts, I couldn’t help but notice that when the disciples encountered Jesus (always during their normal life activities) it had a major effect on them, so much so, that they were willing to leave everything and everyone behind. For example, Simon, James, and John (all fishermen by trade) encountered Jesus one morning as they were washing their nets. They had been fishing all night to no avail. As they stood on shore, cleaning their equipment, Jesus asked Simon if He could borrow his boat. There were so many people coming to see and hear Jesus that He needed to use Simon’s boat as a stage of sorts. Jesus climbed in the boat and pushed off from shore so that the crowds could see and hear Him better. Once He had finished teaching, Jesus returned back to shore and told Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish” (Luke 5:4, NLT). I can only imagine the thoughts that may have rushed through Simon’s mind. Here he was, a seasoned, professional fisherman being told by a carpenter who had recently become a ‘preacher’ how to fish. Nonetheless, he didn’t let any doubts he may have had keep him from obeying. Luke 5:5-10 (NLT) gives the account. “‘Master,’ Simon replied, ‘we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.’ And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear! A shout for help brought their partners in the other boat, and soon both boats were filled with fish and on the verge of sinking.”
“When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, ‘Oh Lord, please leave me--I’m too much of a sinner to be around you.’ For he was awestruck by the number of fish they had caught, as were the others with him.” “Jesus replied to Simon Peter, ‘Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!’ And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.” Did you catch that? As soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus. These fishermen, men who had been fishing all night without a minnow to show for it, had just hit the mother load! Their nets were so full of fish they were beginning to tear; their boats were so full of fish they were on the verge of sinking… both of them! I’m sure this exceeded even their wildest fishing dreams. Yet, what do they do when they land back on shore? They leave it all behind and follow Jesus. Think about that for a moment, mentally put yourself there and grasp the magnitude of what just happened. These men had just had success, major success... greater success than they could have ever imagined. As they slowly make their way back to shore, they are met by crowds of people who have gathered to see what all the yelling and screaming was about. In an instant, these men have become fishing legends! Now, think about what this catch meant to these fishermen. You got it… money! These boatloads of fish would have brought in a large amount of money for these men, most likely, more than they had ever experienced before. Yet, they don’t cash it in, they don’t run around town telling their amazing fishing story (that needs no exaggeration), they don’t celebrate their success; rather, they walk away from it all the moment they have the opportunity to follow Jesus, without ever looking back. Wow!
When I asked Ivy why she thought they would have done this, my beautiful eleven-year-old daughter confidently replied, “They knew that Jesus was more important than fish and money.” “Why?” I asked her. “What was it about Jesus that caused these men to sacrifice their careers, equipment, reputations, and relationships to go ‘fish for people’?” Once again she wisely answered, “They had just seen His power. They knew He was greater than all that.” She was right. These men had just witnessed a miracle. They were seasoned fishermen, they knew moments like this didn’t ‘just’ happen. They knew He must be One with great authority and power… One worth following with total abandon. As I pondered this scenario, I kept going back to the scene where Jesus was using Simon Peter’s boat to teach the crowds. As Simon Peter, John, and James were washing their nets, I wonder what message was echoing across the water. Was Jesus claiming to be the Son of God? Was He teaching the law? Was He teaching about love and servant-hood? Was He inviting people to believe in Him for eternal life? Did He make reference to His power? I don’t know, we aren’t told. But I imagine whatever it was, these fishermen overheard the message. They heard the words of Jesus and then, they met Him. They had a personal encounter with Jesus that was so powerful and unmistakable that it changed their life’s priorities and direction. It caused them to realized their sin and His holiness. It resulted in their being willing to risk it all… reputation, career, relationships, and ultimately their lives for Jesus. Jesus really must have been something! He was. And, He is. He’s far greater than anything we can hope for or imagine. But how many of us can honestly say we are willing to walk away from everything and everyone important to us and follow Jesus? How many of
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us are really willing to walk away from our greatest success and leave it all behind? How many of us are willing to look like complete fools in the world’s eyes? Yet, that is what Jesus asked of these men. Why? What comes to my mind is that Jesus had something better in store… something of value, something of purpose, something worth living for and in the end, worth dying for. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not advocating that as soon as you finish reading this that you and I should leave our families and our jobs and wander around in sandals. I’m just making the point that a true encounter with Jesus will literally change our lives, from the inside out. It will cause us to see our sin and God’s holiness. It will change our priorities. It will cause us to look at life a little bit different. Things that were once important to us, things like success, money, reputation, fame, people pleasing/ impressing… just won’t be as important any more. Have you had an encounter with Jesus this powerful? Have you moved past the message of Jesus and met Him personally? Have you realized His power, experienced His presence, been overwhelmed by His love? Have you realized that He truly is Something and worth it all? Simon Peter and his partners could have stopped at the message and walked away unchanged. They could have chosen to doubt, to do things their own way, to stay home and enjoy their success and fame. But they didn’t. They didn’t even give it a second thought! They knew without a doubt that Jesus was worth following. They had grasped with their whole heart and minds that Jesus was far greater than anything they could possibly hold on to. They also knew that with Jesus, greater things lay ahead. If only we could grasp those truths. Why don’t we ask God for the courage to take those steps right now? Dear Lord, Help us to see You for Who You are. You are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. You are all-powerful, all-knowing, loving, kind, trustworthy, and faithful. You are eternal. If only we could grasp those truths, we would realize that you truly are Something! You are worth our lives and our greatest sacrifice. Lord, help us to let go of our doubts and our desires and follow You unashamedly and whole-heartedly. Help us to desire You above all. Amen V
Compassionate, Professional Pet Care We offer: • Customized visits for pets of all shapes and sizes • Visits scheduled according to your pet’s individual needs
Serving Earleton, Melrose, Keystone Heights, Hawthorne, Starke, Waldo & surrounding areas.
• Dog walking, personal attention and play time • Pet taxi service • Farm animal care • Home care tasks
For more information, contact Bill and Deborah Coleman at 352-234-5760, 352-246-6025, or by email at Info@lovinghandspets.com. www.kojministries.org 17
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To Self, With Love
by Kristi Overton Johnson
I was once asked to reflect upon my life and write a letter to my 18-year-old self. I recently came across this letter. It is filled with many life lessons that I have learned, often the hard way. Praise God for His love, forgiveness, and faithfulness. I pray this letter will encourage your heart and hopefully keep you from making some of the same mistakes I made. ~ Kristi
Kristi Overton Johnson is the founder of Champion’s Heart, KOJ Ministries, and In His Wakes. Kristi currently resides in Florida with her husband, Tim, and their three children.
Dear 18-year-old Kristi, I can’t believe you are 18! What an exciting time of your life you are entering. You’ll soon be moving several states away from your family, living in your own apartment, and making your own decisions. But before you head south to Florida, I want to share a few things that I learned over the years, things that I think will help you as you embark on this journey of life. First of all, quit trying to be perfect. It will never happen. Perfection is a waste of time. You are going to be so tempted to get your worth in your external appearances, your relationships, grades in school, and how you perform. Satan will lie to you and tell you that you are never good enough, that you’ve never done enough. Don’t listen to Him. I want to encourage you to seek God’s approval and not man’s. Quit trying to please everyone and quit trying to get everyone to like you. No matter what you do, no matter how hard you try, there will always be someone who doesn’t like the way you look, the way you talk, the way you dress. The more you seek the world’s approval, the more you try to get people to like you, the more choices you will make that compromise your own standards. Don’t compromise. Be yourself. Be the unique person God designed you to be! Stand up for what you believe and I promise you that you will live a life of no regrets.
Quit being so negative about yourself. I know why you do it. You don’t want people to think that you think you are special because of your ski accomplishments. So you make fun of your looks, you call yourself stupid, fat, and ugly. But you have to realize, the more you speak these words of destruction over your life the more you will fight these lies as an adult. Speak life and blessings over yourself and your situations. Lay aside your fears and worries of what God will have you do and just surrender your life to Him. Focus on a relationship with Him rather than meeting a checklist of religious activities. God isn’t impressed with what you do, He is pleased with your faith in Him. Start letting go of all your fears and trust Him with your life. He loves you. He will not destroy your plans and dreams; rather He will give you something so much better. Trust Him. He will never fail or disappoint you. There will be so many distractions in life. Always remember to make the main thing the main thing. Keep your eyes on Christ and make time for Him. It will be the greatest choice you ever make. Sometimes you’ll feel like you don’t have time for God… make time! You can’t afford not to stop what you are doing and curl up with Him for it is there, in the cradle of His arms, that you will find peace, joy, rest, comfort, and wisdom. He will always be waiting for you with arms wide open.
As you give God access to your heart, He will place His dreams for your life and for the world inside of you. Dream those dreams with God. Dream big, God dreams and then follow after them with all your heart! Don’t be afraid of what people may think. Don’t try and figure out how it will all be accomplished. Don’t let anything stop you or anyone tell you these dreams can’t be done! Rather, take one faith-filled step at a time and watch God work all around you and through you! You think awards and the applause of man is something, just wait until you enter into God’s plan for your life and see Him work all around you through your passions. But remember, as you chase after these dreams, don’t forget to stay close to God. Allow Him to lead you every step of the way. You will often be tempted to take matters into your own hands and try to make things happen in your own strength. Don’t do it! It will just lead to exhaustion, disappointment, and confusion. All you have to do is stay close to God and He will bring everything to fruition in ways you could have never imagined! One last thing… dedicate your life to loving others and serving them… that will be the secret to your own happiness. As you keep God and others ahead of yourself, you will always be blessed.
With love, Your 43-year-old self
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MINISTRY NEWS
UPDATE FROM VICTORIOUS LIVING PUBLISHER, KRISTI OVERTON JOHNSON
Enlarged Territory As I look back over the last two years, I am amazed at how God has used Victorious Living (VL) to bring inspiration, encouragement, and spiritual growth to people of all backgrounds. As its editor and publisher, it has brought all of these things into my life as well.
His love forgives, heals, and restores. Through this publication, they will also receive practical help of how to ‘move forward’ even while incarcerated… learning how to handle their emotions, capture their thoughts, and line their actions up with the Word of God.
With every issue, I realize just how dependent I am on my Heavenly Father and the generosity of others for finances and stories to fill these pages. I have to admit, there have been times when I have wrestled with the thought of giving up entirely on this project or at the very least, reducing the number of issues. Yet every time I consider these things, God encourages my heart with a letter or word of encouragement from someone whose life has been impacted.
There are 62 facilities within the state, housing over 100,000 inmates. It is our desire to send a case of 200 magazines each quarter to these facilities. We have been told that as these magazines are circulated through the prisons, they will be read cover-to-cover, until the covers fall off! I trust that as Victorious Living is passed from hand to hand, the Lord will begin to transform hearts and minds.
Editing and assembling this magazine brings me so much joy. Hearing people talk about how the magazine has touched their lives strengthens my faith and gives me the push I need to continue. I know in the depths of my heart that God has great plans for VL. Already, He is opening unforeseen doors to touch thousands of lives. Recently, our magazine received an invitation from the Head of Chaplains of the Florida Correctional Facilities to distribute VL into the Florida prison system. We have the opportunity to provide hope, encouragement, and truth to over 100,000 men and women housed in these facilities. As I have gone into the prison systems, I have witnessed on the faces and heard in the words the tremendous hopelessness of the inmates. Many are ridden with guilt, regret, anger, shame, fear, and lack of hope for their future. Yet, I’ve also met inmates filled with joy and a sense of freedom, even behind closed doors. These men are living a life of purpose, filled with passion, and touching lives in the midst of their trials. What is the difference? It’s Christ! It’s knowing Him and the hope of His glory. Jesus Christ gives life, an abundant life, to all who believe… regardless of one’s circumstances or past. I know without a doubt that VL will provide these inmates with ‘The Truth’ they so desperately need ... the truth that God so loves the world and
Currently we are publishing 8,000 copies of VL quarterly, resulting in an annual cost of $28,000. In order to mail a case to each prison, we will need to print an additional 12,400 copies. Although our design cost will not be affected, our printing and mailing cost will increase by $11,500 a year, making the total project cost for Victorious Living in 2014 $39,500. Although costly, this additional expenditure has the potential to impact over 100,000 lives. What an incredible return on our investment! To continue publishing Victorious Living and expanding its territory, we need your support. I prayerfully ask you to help us expand VL’s impact in both your community and the prison system. Have you been blessed by this magazine? If so, will you consider making a donation so that others can be blessed as well? For $45.00, you can sponsor one case to go into the prison system and bring hope to thousands. Consider also purchasing a case to distribute within your own community. Many magazines on the market today are either subscription-based or sold. That is not the vision for Victorious Living. Although we do have subscribers, I ultimately see this magazine as a witnessing tool… YOUR witnessing tool! It is something to be kept in your car, or in your office, and shared with people as you go about your life. Through this publication, YOU can reach people for Christ in a simple, yet profound way! V
160 SW Nightingale Street PO Box 968 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 352-478-8076 www.kojministries.org
MISSION:
Victorious Living provides hope for the heart and help for life through inspirational stories of God’s faithfulness in today’s world.
CURRENT NEEDS:
VL needs people who will: • provide financial support • distribute the magazine in their community • build our business/church support
TESTIMONIES:
I have been told that there are no coincidences, only divine appointments. I feel that was exactly the case when you spoke at our facility and gave us copies of Victorious Living. The words God gave to you to speak to us were very inspirational. The next day, a group of us were on our way to our classes, when the person marching beside me told me how much your speech inspired him. That was exactly what had been on my heart. It’s not too often you hear guys in here speak positive things. I pray you will be able to come back and speak to us again. ~Inmate, Trenton, FL Thank you for Victorious Living. I am delighted that through this magazine, the Lord has given me the secret desires of my heart: a poem published and the opportunity to help get His Word to the hungry and the hurting. God bless you, may He be in all that you do, may He protect you and enlarge your territory. ~ Charlene Jung
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UPDATE FROM CHAMPION’S HEART LIFE CENTER DIRECTOR, DONNA HANNAH
MINISTRY NEWS
Different Needs, Same God 160 SW Nightingale Street PO Box 968 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 Tuesday - Thursday 10am - 3pm 352-478-8076 www.championsheart.org
MISSION:
Champion’s Heart Life Center provides relational, resource, and recovery support for families through on-site partnerships and referral services.
As I serve people from our community at Champion’s Heart Life Center, my faith is continually strengthened as I experience daily the presence and the power of God. He is actively at work in our ministry, in the lives of our clients, and in my own personal life. It’s unmistakable! Within the past month, God has answered our prayers for more volunteers at Champion’s Heart Life Resource Center. He has blessed us with several amazing people who have a heart to serve Him and His people. He has also brought new partnerships and expanded current ones! This will enable our center to better serve our community.
CURRENT NEEDS:
CHLC needs people who will: • volunteer to bring help and hope to our community • support our center through monthly donations
TESTIMONIES:
I want to thank Champion’s Heart Life Center, with a big thank you to Donna. She helped find several types of assistance for our family. We also enjoy the Saturday Night Wonders service held at the Life Center. They are very constructive and interesting for the whole family. Thanks so much! ~Jim Badcock and family Keystone Heights, FLV
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Donna and Kristi welcome Right Path to CHLC We are very excited about our new partnerships with the American Red Cross and Right Path Behavioral. Beginning this month, Right Path will provide much needed services at Champion’s Heart to children, adolescents, and adults who suffer from mental health and substance abuse, as well as mental health and substance abuse co-occurring disorders. Right Path will join Quigley House, Clay Behavioral, as well as ten other onsite partners who also provide services at our offices. In addition, we have over 100 referral partnerships with agencies across Clay County. God is amazing! God is continually expanding opportunities at Champion’s Heart for our community. God has also been answering the prayers of our clients by providing much needed resources for the nearly 1,000 families we have served in 2013. Our clientele are people who are hurting emotionally, spiritually, and physically. They range in age from youth to elderly and are from all backgrounds. Some have been stuck in cycle of poverty their entire lives, while other’s have suddenly found themselves in a crisis. They are of all beliefs and lifestyles. Because of their urgent needs and various backgrounds, we have an incredible opportunity to introduce many people to the life-giving love of Jesus Christ. As prayers are answered, our clients realize that God has provided for their needs. As they experience His love through our center, they realize people do care. Many return to Champion’s Heart… not just for resources, but also for the Word of God. They
want to know more about Him. They want to have a relationship with Him; the most important relationship anyone can have! That is truly what Champion’s Heart is all about. As I have had the privilege of meeting people from within our community, I have come to realize that although we are very different people, with different lives and different needs, we all have the same promise… God is here and ready to help us in our time of need! I am so blessed that I have the opportunity to witness this promise fulfilled on a daily basis at Champion’s Heart. I invite you to join me at Champion’s Heart Life Center. Come see first hand God’s promises being fulfilled. Come experience His love and be a part of extending His love and hope to our community. As Champion’s Heart is supported solely by donations, we are in constant need of monthly supporters to help us continue to provide help and hope to our growing client base. We also need godly men and women who desire to serve God’s people and help them have victory! Thank you in advance for praying about how you can partner with Champion’s Heart Life Center to bring help and hope to the residents of Keystone Heights. V ~ Donna
WHAT IS CHAMPION’S HEART LIFE CENTER?
Champion’s Heart is a local resource center that seeks to serve our clients, community, and partners in the following ways: • CHLC serves our clients by providing relational, resource, and recovery support as well as life coaching, life skill training, and educational workshops to help people break free, move forward, and soar to victory! We also offer our clients a foundation of truth based on the Word of God as we believe that the Word of God, when applied to one’s life, has the ability to set people free from anything preventing them from living a victorious, purpose-filled life. • CHLC serves our community through the hosting of fun, educational, and leadership events so as to enhance the physical, spiritual, financial, and emotional health of our community. We also serve our community by being committed to bringing life changing resources to the Lake Area Region as we form viable partnerships with incredible organizations who assist us in providing ‘help and hope’ to our residents. We are constantly adding new partnerships that add depth and quality to the amount of services we can provide our community • CHLC serves our partners by providing convenient, affordable, and beautiful office space where organizations as well as individuals can bring ‘hope and help’ to our clients and community as a whole. V
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MINISTRY NEWS
UPDATE FROM IN HIS WAKES DIRECTOR, NATE MILLER
The Value of One!
We recently concluded the In His Wakes’ 2013 Tour! At the end of each tour, when I have moment to take a breath, I look back and ask myself, “What did the Lord show me through the many experiences that took place this year?” I never want to be in the frame of mind, that just because I’ve done this for seven years, I really don’t have much else to learn. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, the longer I serve in this ministry, the more I realize how little I know and how much I yet have to learn. Lately, one of the greatest lessons the Lord has impressed upon my heart is the value of ‘one.’ Our society today is driven by numbers and the values they represent. We make great assumptions based on these numbers. For example, the more money in the bank, the ‘richer’ we are deemed to be. The higher the attendance at church, the ‘greater’ the pastor. The more square footage in a house, the ‘higher’ the social status. There are even those who have the idea that the more good deeds they do, the ‘better’ person they are. The list is endless. All these numbers seem so important in the world’s eyes, yet in God’s eyes all those numbers add up to one thing… a big fat zero! When I started with IHW seven years ago, numbers were high on my priority list, from number of events to number of those in attendance. I often sacrificed quality for quantity, effectiveness for status. After the first couple of seasons, the Lord made it very clear my heart was in the wrong place. It wasn’t that He was against more events and a large attendance; it simply wasn’t where He wanted my focus to be. It was at that time I learned the value God places on just one life and the impact that one life can have on others.
At first, this lesson was learned the hard way. Event after event, I would plan for 60 participants, only to have 20. Yet, I consistently noticed incredible relationships being developed with the participants in these smaller settings. I was also blown away by the amount of people surrendering their lives to the Lord. After seeing God work in these settings, I purposely began to reduce the size of our events. The number of events continued to grow; however, each event offered more relationship building opportunities. It’s often hard to stay encouraged when our plans seem to be changing right before our eyes. At one particular event, we had three boats launched, equipment laid out on the shore, a youth pastor, a worship leader, numerous volunteers, and even a burger wagon filled with fresh meat… but no kids. What did we do? First of all, I reminded those in attendance, and myself, that God is not bound by numbers. Then, we ate some delicious burgers and gathered for intimate praise, worship, and prayer time. We prayed for the kids who had failed to come and we prayed for each other. We took courage in knowing that although we had our plans... plans that didn’t come to fruition... God was still in control. The lives of those kids were still impacted through our prayers. There have been cases where the Lord has stopped large events I was organizing. This happened as recently as October! I had an awesome outreach planned complete with a premier Christian action sports video and live testimonies from the pro-athletes featured in the film. Just before signing the contract for a Christian band, the Lord shut the door. Because of my sometimes thick head, He really had to slam it shut and hide the key! I still showed the video; however, my original grandiose plan went from packed house, awesome band, multiple pro-athletes, and many people coming to the front for salvation, to no band, one athlete from the video, half the people anticipated, and only one person coming up front for prayer. The world view would described this event as an epic failure; however, I am already seeing great results from this smaller event. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that Jesus is against crowds. He often drew crowds of thousands. But He often went out of His way for an audience of one. The woman at the well is just one example where the Lord saw the value of reaching one life as equally important as ministering to thousands. He intentionally sought out the time and place where He knew there would be one very needy and important person. He knew that by reaching that
PO Box 968 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 352-745-0283 www.inhiswakes.com
MISSION:
In His Wakes introduces people to the life-changing power of Jesus Christ through water sports.
CURRENT NEEDS:
IHW needs people who will: • share IHW with others • sponsor D2R Participants • support our ministry through monthly donations
TESTIMONIES:
To all of you at In His Wakes, I want to say thank you. You are truly a blessing to the residents and staff at Mercy Ministries. Through your ministry you open doors and help to conquer fears that so easily weigh us down. Thank you for opening the door to victory when we ‘get off the dock!’ ~Sharon Manuel, Program Director Mercy Ministries, Nashville, TN
Will you help us go? Will you help us reach lost souls for Christ… the multitudes and the ‘one’? Our cost is $150.00 per child. Will you sponsor ‘one’? Will you sponsor many? Together, we can help people experience victory, hope, and purpose in Christ Jesus!
continued on page 29
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A Surrendered Life by Martha Monroe Schuon
It was not good news. The vet was explaining how Skipper’s colon disease had progressed to include liver disease. Through my blur, I heard a long list of treatments. I could not tell if Dr. Hillier was listing options or describing an entire treatment program. How do you heal a liver anyway? I didn’t think liver damage could even be reversed. My heart was breaking. All I could think about was how impossible Skipper was when it came to vet visits. Then, the news worsened. There was something being said about administering fluids every other day. After returning home and settling my emotions, I read the paperwork. Liquid medicines three times a day, a special enzyme given after a two hour fast, pills to be crushed and combined with food, vitamin B shots to be injected with the fluids. How in the world was I going to get her to let me stick a needle in her every other day to give her these fluids? Sixteen years earlier, I had gone through an unwanted divorce. Betrayal, affairs, and deception led to an unanticipated divorce; and coincidentally, the death of Rover, my beloved 22 pound black cat with gold eyes. I had had Rover for 18 years and did not know life after college without him. Two years after the divorce, the pain of losing Rover finally made it to the surface. After much debate over how to replace my beloved cat, I told my sister one early October day, “If God wants me to have a black cat with gold eyes, He’ll just have to have one run right up to me.” Two weeks later, Skipper ran right up to me and straight into my arms. She has been at my side for the past 14 years! Skipper must have been mistreated in the early months of her life because she does not like hands and she generally avoids people. It took a long time for her to learn how to tolerate my picking her up and loving on her. She is a finicky eater and she even
has the words ‘difficult cat’ stamped in red on her charts at the vet. And now I was embarking upon a three month program of distasteful medicines, pills, and shots to restore her health! As the rehabilitation progressed, Skipper’s responses worsened. The cause and effect of pain created changes in our relationship. I had to wrap my left arm to administer the fluids because she bit and scratched me through most of the process. One particular morning as I overpowered her to maintain the inserted needle, my heart reached its limit. “Why are you fighting me?” I asked. “Why won’t you work with me? Your reaction is making this whole effort much worse than it has to be!” In that moment, it occurred to me that my own relationship with God can often be this way. In my times of deepest hurt and pain, I have often struggled and strived to change my circumstances, unable to understand the ‘why’ behind the things that are happening, and desperately wanting to avoid the pain. But in Romans 8:28, God’s Word says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV) I know this to be true; I only have to look back on my own life to see many examples of it. God restored my heart that had been broken through divorce and He blessed me with a ‘forever marriage’ to Hans. God even had a little black cat, perfectly suited for my life, run straight into my arms once I finally surrendered that problem to Him, too. If only we could learn to trust Him and surrender to His love and good care for us. I can’t help but wonder what we might learn if we were to see His hand at work in our circumstances instead of seeing our pain? I wonder how
much more we might grow if we asked God to show us His perspective for the circumstance we are walking through. What do we miss in our relationship with God when we do not surrender to Him? My relationship with Skipper is much better now that her treatments are becoming a distant memory. She does not always trust me, but we are slowly getting back to our old ways. We have spent as much time healing our feline/owner relationship as we spent healing her liver. I wish she could understand my actions were for her well-being and were done out of love. My hope is that I will remember this lesson for my own life whenever pain crosses my path again. God loves us and He is always for us! “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31, NIV) With this promise, it’s easier to find the strength to live a surrendered life. V Martha Monroe Schuon is joyfully married to Hans Schuon and lives in Roswell, Georgia with their healthy senior kitty, Skipper.
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INSPIRING LEADERSHIP
Fear Is Not Real
In my last column (May issue, 2013), I shared with you several things I have learned about following God. To refresh your memory: 1. He never wants us to worry. 2. He always wants us to give our cares to Him. 3. He loves to surprise us with His beauty. For me, refusing to worry and giving my cares to God is not an easy task. I ‘know’ I am not supposed to worry. God reminds me daily with His Word and His Spirit’s gentle nudging that He is with me and will provide for my every need. But giving God all of my cares can still be difficult. There are moments when my cares feel like one half of a Velcro patch and my brain feels like the other half. They just love to come together! I’m not sure why my brain seems to think that worrying will somehow help my situation. I’m not sure why my brain convinces me that I’m doing my ‘job’ by worrying. Whatever the reason, I often have to make myself override my tendency to worry. Recently as I watched the movie After Earth, I latched on to a quote by actor Will Smith: “Fear is not real. The only place that fear can exist is in our thoughts of the future. It is a product of our imagination, causing us to fear things that do not at present and may not ever exist. That is near insanity. Do not misunderstand me danger is very real but fear is a choice.” I believe this statement. We have to continually choose to not worry or to live in fear. As believers, we must continually choose to give our cares to God and trust that He is big enough to work all of our situations out for good and not for evil (Romans 8:28). Every day, I have ample opportunities to refuse to worry and to give my cares to God, as I’m sure you do. These opportunities can sneak up on us sometimes. Recently, I was in an executive coaching session where I was working with an executive in a large publicly traded company. As we were wrapping up our meeting, this leader stopped me and said, “I need to share something with you.” “OK,” I answered. “Go ahead.” “There’s been a leak of confidential information,” he announced. “The CEO is trying to uncover the leak. One person in question is you.” Bonnie Hagemann is a member of the Board of Directors for Champion’s Heart Life Centers. Bonnie is the CEO of Executive Development Associates, a 28-year-old internationally known boutique consulting firm that specializes in executive development, executive coaching, and high potential development. To date, Bonnie has 11 published works.
by Bonnie Hagemann
“What!” I exclaimed. “I didn’t leak any information.” The executive proceeded to share the information that had been leaked and explain to me why it was believed that I was one of the few people who could have shared such information. The information was neither legal, nor financial, but it was confidential and needed to be revealed in a systematic way. I understood completely why the CEO would be upset. Immediately fear fought to grip my heart. I did know the information; I had had conversations with the other people in question. I could see how it could look like I did it. I racked my brain to remember any conversations that I could have had that could have possibly insinuated the breached information. Nothing came to mind. It wasn’t me. I knew I did not leak the information. All that evening, my mind churned. I was facing a huge problem, especially considering my line of work as an executive coach. If I’m not considered trustworthy and confidential, I’m out of a job. Any blip in my reputation would be devastating for my work. My stomach tightened. I couldn’t relax nor could I sleep. I knew that I wasn’t supposed to worry; but, worry (fear) had snuck up on me and jumped onto my back. Finally, I went to my knees. “God, You know that I didn’t leak the information. But I can’t defend myself as third parties are questioning my ethics. What do I do?” I asked. Gently God reminded me: • Don’t worry (fear). • Give your cares to Me. So, I handed my cares to Him and focused on doing good work. The fearful thoughts returned often, but I continually pushed them away. I would mentally picture myself handing the care to God each time it tried to jump back onto me. Within a few days, it was revealed to me how the leak had happened. As I suspected, it had absolutely nothing to do with me. Unfortunately, I was still not in a position to defend myself, nor could I share the source of the leak to the CEO without stirring up even more trouble. I had no choice but to keep my mouth shut and trust God. So what happened you ask? Nothing. That’s right, nothing. Nothing else was ever said about the matter. No one brought it up again. Work went on. The feared storm never arrived. One day as I returning to work with this company, I thanked God and told Him how grateful I was that the storm had not come and that
He had shown me how to respond. I then made a small request, “Father, I would really like to know that the CEO still trusts me. Please give me favor and let me know where I stand with him.” To my surprise, God answered my prayer that very day. I had an incredibly busy day planned at this company with back-to-back meetings scheduled throughout the day. One of these meetings canceled so I sat in a vacant meeting room and went over some documents while I waited for my next meeting. As I worked, the CEO ‘happened’ to pass by the door. This was quite surprising as his office was no where near where I was working. When he saw me, he came into the room. We chatted for a few minutes during which he shared some new and very confidential information with me. My heart leaped, I had my answer… the CEO trusted me. I don’t always ask for or receive confirmation from God, especially immediate confirmation. But this time I did, and I was grateful. Every day, in every workplace, we encounter events like mine and other painful problems: • potential breeches of trust • conflict • accusations • gossip • sabotage • even well-intentioned interference God wants us to trust Him and to give our cares to Him, even our day-to-day work cares. We will know we are getting it right when we cease to worry or be afraid. To quote Will Smith again, “Fear is not real. The only place that fear can exist is in our thoughts of the future. It is a product of our imagination, causing us to fear things that do not at present and may not ever exist.” V
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CHAMPION’S HEART AWARD If there was ever a person with a champion’s heart, it is Jeannie McKean. Through our friendship and mentor / mentee relationship, I have been greatly blessed to witness her love for Christ and His people in action. My marriage, health, and ministry is stronger than ever because of her incredible godly wisdom! Jeannie is an encourager, not just in words, but in action. She is one who perseveres in the face of trials! Over the years, Jeannie has overcome incredible physical trials, yet she keeps on going, putting one passionate foot in front of the other. I am encouraged by her desire to keep-on keeping-on, traveling the world and telling others about Christ when others in her age bracket would be quite happy to go on a vacation or settle down in their rockers! Thank you Jeannie for inspiring many to continue to serve our Lord. Thank you for refusing to let anything or anyone stop you. Thank you for your love and support. You are truly a champion for Christ! I know you will enjoy the following story by Jeannie.
And He Did!
The joy of serving has an exhaustion factor, but with it a wonder and delight. Recently, I had the opportunity to travel overseas to serve the Lord. If there is one thing I learned as I ventured from Florida to Singapore, to Jakarta, and back home again, it was the importance of total faith dependence on my Creator God. From start to finish, this trip was about trusting God to provide and to show up. Through these lessons of faith, God continues to teach me to trust and obey. When I was asked to be willing to make the trip to Singapore, there were simply no funds available. It would have been easy to look at the lack and stay home, but I decided to make the need known and trust God to provide. And He did. Many of our wonderful partners promptly met the challenge to generously provide what was needed. This provision shouldn’t come as a surprise. God made everything and He always meets the needs of His servants. “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Robert Stack
Jeannie with her husband of 51 years, Reverend Paul McKean.
The trip to Jakarta was an extra blessing. It was not on the original trip itinerary, so I had the opportunity to once again trust the Lord to financial-
A special thanks to The Trophy Shop for designing our Champion’s Heart coin!
by Jeannie McKean
ly provide as the trip would require an additional ticket. He always has a way of keeping me in a position where I have to trust Him. The flight route was the next faith-step. In today’s world, the airlines have significantly cut down on the amount of aircraft and routes. I worked many hours on my itinerary to avoid flying from Jacksonville, to Atlanta, to New York, with an overnight layover, to Minneapolis, to Tokyo, and finally to Singapore. Although I was able to eliminate the New York portion, I still had many stops, totaling 34 hours of travel. Just thinking about all these connections and hours on the plane could cause anyone great anxiety. I had to refuse to worry and trust that God would help me physically and in my travels. And He did. Once I arrived, I had to trust the Lord for strength to minister. Can you say ‘jet lag’? It is a real, unbelievable weariness that has even caused me to fall asleep while I’m talking to someone. This creates an interesting situation when I’m interacting with people who are alert and chipper… people who haven’t traveled for 34 hours and for whom I am there to serve. Because I had flown across many time zones, I was accelerated 12 hours in time. Basically, my nights and days were turned upside down. When my hostesses were ready for lunch, it was midnight. All I wanted to do was sleep, my body was ‘dog weary.’ There were also changes in culture… dietary differences, language barriers, and customs that carry the concern that I will unknowingly offend someone. Add to that the fact that I am a woman in my 70‘s trying to keep up with my hosts who are 20 years my juniors, and full of energy, and you could have a recipe for stress! But once again I was able to rest in the Lord and trust Him to strengthen my body and mind. And He did. Another place where I had to trust the Lord was in the area of wisdom and divine empowerment. I needed the Holy Spirit to help me train the wom-
The bottom line is that GOD IS ABLE. It isn’t about you. It’s not about what you can or can’t do. en at the conference. I knew the material and had mentored other women over the years, but I had never trained others to teach this material. I spent many long hours of preparation, but I still knew that I needed the power of the Holy Spirit to show up. And He did. By God’s grace and power, I delivered the lessons and witnessed God being glorified and people being ministered to in power. The bottom line is that GOD IS ABLE. It isn’t about you. It’s not about what you can or can’t do. It’s not about the resources you do or don’t have. It’s about Him. All you need is to be willing to serve, not to be applauded or praised, but to direct all the accolades to Him. And as you do, you too will be able to look back and say these wonderful words… “And He did!” V Jeannie has been married to Rev. Paul McKean for 51 years. They have 2 grown children, 6 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. She was born and raised in China, and has worked there much of the last 20 years. Jeannie is a Life-Coach, Speaker, and Author. She and her husband live in Florida and serve as advisors to KOJ Ministries.
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Treasures Treasure!
A mother who loved us enough to teach us right from wrong.
The Lord says in Isaiah 45:3, “I will give you treasures hidden in the darkness, secret riches.” (NLT) As I reminisce about my childhood, I uncover many treasures, valuable things, the Lord gave to me in the dark times of my life.
Treasure!
Clean television programming. Growing up in the 50‘s was certainly different than our culture today. My mother was a single mom raising her three little children in a very dangerous section of Jacksonville, Florida. My two brothers, Ronnie & Alton, and myself didn’t really understand the dangers of living in this area of town, the Brentwood Projects. We played cowboys and Indians, climbed trees, and enjoyed our lives as kids. We watched Captain Kangaroo, The Lone Ranger, and Roy Rogers on a black and white TV many a Saturday morning. There were only two or three channels to choose from so it was easy to decide what to watch. There was no need for parental controls!
Treasure!
Linda Cubbedge resides in Graham, FL. She works at Cubbedge-Wiggins Ins. Agency and attends First Baptist Church Starke where she leads the Women’s Ministry. She is also a guest speaker at women’s events. She has 4 children, 9 grandchildren, and 1 great grandson.
Learning about Jesus in many ways. I remember going to church as a little girl and learning about Jesus in Sunday School. It was so evident that my grandparents loved Jesus. My grandmother would play the piano and sing so many songs about Jesus. Many Sundays we traveled to and from church on the city bus.
My brother, Ronnie, recently reminded me of the bamboos that grew outside our apartment in the projects. When we got into trouble, our momma would make us go outside and get a switch off that bush. That’s what she would use to correct us. She used to say we sounded like a bunch of Indians, yelping through the house, as she used that switch to help us remember not to do whatever it was we did. It was a pretty good reminder, too. That switch stung like fire! Yet, as I think back, that switch never hurt us; rather, it helped us think twice about our actions.
Treasure!
A protective mother who fought for us. None of us were harmed. One night someone broke into our apartment. The man threatened to kill my momma. She ushered us into another bedroom in the small apartment, slammed the bedroom door, pushed our wooden toy box against the door, and started screaming. She then began pounding on the walls of the apartment for help. The intruder ran away and soon the police came.
Treasure!
A praying mother. We all healed just fine! Needless to say, my precious momma had her hands full providing for and taking care of my brothers and me. This precious prayer warrior was always on her knees for her three little ones. There were many hospital visits and unexpected trials between the three of us… wooden swing to the nose, ice pick in the eye (resulting in Ronnie having a glass eye), allergic reaction to medications, broken limbs, nearly drowning under a paddle boat… I could go on and on. Yet momma never complained. She just kept loving and caring for us.
Treasure!
Protection and provision. The pastor of our church helped my momma get us placed in the Baptist Home for Children. Most of the boys and girls in the Home did not have living parents. The Baptist Home for Children became our home for the next five years. At this time, we were
by Linda Cubbedge
eight, nine, and ten; myself being the youngest. Looking back, I can see where the Lord provided this safe place for us to live. Even though we missed living in a family unit with our momma, this time proved to be a season of protection from the many dangers lurking in the Brentwood Projects.
Treasure!
Eternal life and God’s presence here on earth. In January 1961, Billy Graham came to the Jacksonville Coliseum. In the two nights he was there, he preached the Gospel of Christ to over 13,000 people. All of the kids and house parents from the Baptist Home were bused to this event. Over 1,000 people were saved, including me! Although I was a shy and timid little girl, and sitting in the very top section of the coliseum, the hope of knowing Jesus drew me right out of my seat. As the invitation was given to accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior I jumped up and headed down those steep stairs to get to the platform where Billy Graham was standing. I can still remember the words echoing through the coliseum, “If you came by bus, they will wait for you.” Because of these words, I wasn’t afraid of being left behind. Ronnie also gave his heart to Jesus that day. Our oldest brother, Alton, had gotten saved just before we moved to the Baptist Home. The Lord is always working in every life, providing divine, destiny-altering encounters so that precious souls can know and receive His unconditional and passionate love.
Treasure!
Being reunited with my family in ‘our’ home. In the summer of 1964, my mother married Steve Starling, Jr. Finally, we were a family again, living under the same roof. I will never forget the feeling that invaded my heart as a 13-year-old preparing to go to high school. I was with my mother and my brothers, living in ‘our’ home. And, now I had a daddy too! It was overwhelming. So many treasures… hidden in the secret places of our lives… found even in the darkest, most lonely, painful experiences that we encounter. If only we take the time to reflect, we will find them. They are everywhere. God’s fingerprints are so evident. His heart of love is always at work in our lives. Thank you God, for these treasures!V
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Amazing Things
Nevin: Seventy-three years ago, I met a sixteen-year-old girl named Roberta (Bobbie) Hilliard at Camp of the Woods, a Christian camp for families in the Adirondack Mountains. We did everything together in that summer of 1940. By the end of the summer, I told her, “All my love is yours.” Roberta: As an only child, I greatly looked forward to being old enough to spend a whole summer at Camp of the Woods. My family, who lived on Long Island, NY, often visited this camp, staying in wood-bottomed tents that lined the white sandy beach of beautiful Lake Pleasant.
At the age of sixteen, my dream came true as I, along with ninety high school and college aged youths, was finally able to spend the summer working at the camp. Each of us were given various jobs around the camp to make things ready and enjoyable for all the families that would be coming. At camp, I began spending time with a certain young man named Nevin Blair from Pennsylvania. During our free time, Nevin and I would play tennis and go swimming. It wasn’t long before he began to become quite serious about our relationship. I, on the other hand, was very serious about going to college!
s g ht y s u o t h u, sa he o t d y peace w r o a a kn o w of I nk t g ht s ve you r i o F I t h , t hou , to gi pe. il o t rd t ha e Lo of ev d a h 1 1 h n 9: t not u re a iah 2 d an fut ere m J Bobbie and Nevin reunited in 1989.
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Bobbie,1
by Nevin and Roberta Blair
Nevin: With Bobbie’s interest in attending college strengthening, we began to drift apart, but we remained good friends. By 1943, I headed to the South Pacific with the Signal Corps. Bobbie began attending Bob Jones College in Cleveland, TN. I wrote to Bobbie while in the service, but we quickly lost track of one another. In 1944, Bobbie got married. On August 9, 1947, I married a wonderful lady by the name of Grace. We were happily married nearly 38 years before her death in 1985. Bobbie and her husband were joyfully married for 44 years before he died in 1989. We both know without a doubt that our marriages were in accordance with God’s will. Roberta: With Pearl Harbor being suddenly attacked, Nevin was called to serve in the Signal Corps. We lost all contact with each other. After the war, Nevin married a minister’s daughter in Pennsylvania. I married a ministerial student from Bob Jones College named V. L. Martin. After serving as a pastor of churches in Michigan, V.L. and I were happy to find ourselves missionaries on the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), just north of South America. We learned the Papiamento language in Aruba, then moved to Curacao. We had the joy and privilege of building the first Evangelical church on the three islands! Later, my husband’s ministry took him all over the Caribbean area and to South America. Today there are many churches on each of those islands. National pastors have now replaced all of the missionaries! In 1967, my husband was one of the first people to ever undergo open-heart surgery. He continued ministering and was well and active for many years. But in January, 1989, he once again needed heart surgery. Unfortunately, because of the way the first procedure had been done, the surgeon was unable to do the surgery successfully. V.L. passed away.
Nevin: Now the incredible story begins! Around the middle of February, 1989, I for some unknown reason began to think about Bobbie. I don’t know why, but surely this was of the Lord because I couldn’t get her out of my mind for weeks! I located my old Camp of the Woods photo album and searched for her picture. I also read the many notes
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she had written on the back of the pictures. At this point, I had no idea where she lived. I didn’t know her married name, or if she was even alive. I am talking about a lapse of time of almost half a century! I had no idea how to begin to find her. During this time, I was looking through some old books when I ‘happened’ upon my wife’s alumni record from Juniata College. I thumbed through the pages until I found her name. I noticed that although Grace’s maiden name was given, it was cross-referenced with her married name, Grace Blair. This gave me the idea that perhaps other colleges may have cross-references as well. From my old Army service address book from 1943, I found Bobbie’s address at Bob Jones College. It’s a miracle I still had that old book as I didn’t even use any of those addresses any more. After some research, I discovered that Bob Jones College had moved from Tennessee to Greenville, SC and had even taken on a new name. I called information for the number. As I dialed, I asked the Lord for His will to be done. Within moments I had reached Bob Jones University who gave me information from the mid-1940‘s for alumni, Roberta Hilliard. My mouth dropped as they gave me her married name, address, and phone number!
Nevin and Bobbie Blair have been residents of Keystone Heights , FL since 1995. On October 13, 2013, Nevin’s two married sons and daughter, their mates, and two of Bobbie’s sons and their wives provided a fabulous 90th birthday party for them both, coming from IL, VA, MD, OH, and IN!
At this point, I almost gave up the whole idea! Would she still remember me? Suppose her husband answered the phone! What would I say? What could be gained anyway? Having gone this far, I felt compelled to call and at least talk to Bobbie Hilliard Martin. As
I placed the phone call on March 13, 1989, I prayed for the Lord to direct me for I didn’t know what I was going to say! To my relief, she answered the phone. At first Bobbie didn’t know who was on the other end of the phone, but when I told her my name, she remembered me well. Imagine my surprise to find out that her husband, V.L. had died only seven weeks before. Her voice was so steady and calm as she told me all about her husband. I broke down telling her about Grace’s death, an event that had occurred four years prior! We hardly knew what to say to each other but it was a beginning. I promised to write.
Roberta: I had been a widow for just seven weeks, when one day the phone rang. The person on the other end of the phone asked if I remembered any of the fellows from Camp of the Woods. It took a couple of minutes before I remembered three or four names, but I didn’t even think of Nevin Blair. To my surprise, that was who was calling! We had not heard from each other for forty-eight years! We began corresponding and talking on the phone. Soon letters were being mailed back and forth from Maryland to Florida. We certainly kept our mail deliverers extra busy. Nevin: After reconnecting with Bobbie, I immediately sent her Joyce Landord’s book called Mourning Song. To my amazement she sent me two books that she had written. I was overwhelmed to find out she and her husband had been missionaries in the Caribbean area for 12 years. Her husband had been a pastor of several churches for over 17 years. Her two books described their experiences in serving the Lord as they traveled all over the world. I don’t particularly like to write letters, but before long we were writing every day. I was enjoying her companionship, something I had longed for and missed so greatly since Grace had died. Bobbie was just beginning to understand the loneliness of now living by herself. As we talked, it seemed as though I had known Bobbie for the last 48 years. We complimented each other perfectly as our relationship grew. She put a new spark in my life and I to hers. It wasn’t long before we were talking about marriage as a natural extension of our deepening relationship. Neither of us had planned a second marriage, but the Lord seemed to be leading us in a different direction. We both wanted the Lord’s will in our lives. By the beginning of June, only several months after reconnecting with Bobbie, I offered her ‘all my love’ for the second time since 1940. This was
Nevin,1940
“Amazing things happen when the Lord is in the midst of your life” incredible, beyond all human comprehension! All these events fitting together… the unbelievable timing, the foundation of a relationship from 49 years before on which to build upon, the complete unison of our minds… it all had to be directed by the Holy Spirit. There is no other explanation. How else could all these things had taken place in just three months, seven weeks after Bobbie’s husband had died, just when she needed someone to turn to and I was reaching out for companionship? The Lord knew each of our situations and planned to bring us back into each other’s lives and so He did --- after 48 years! It’s amazing! God works in “mysterious ways His wonders to perform.” On June 13, our third month anniversary, Bobbie gave me a card entitled Love is a Precious Miracle. She signed it, with all my love. On June 14, I took Bobbie out in the boat and asked her to marry me… she answered yes! We were married in October, 1989. We have now been married for 24 years!
Roberta: Some would think this was just an unusual happening. We, however, believe our reunion was planned by the Lord. Nevin and I are both now in our 90‘s. It’s been over 24 years since we stood before God and pledged ‘all our love’ to one another… our story continues to amaze even us. As we think back over our lives, we are so thankful for God’s gracious gift of our relationship. Amazing things happen when the Lord is in the midst of your life. V
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ABLE and Willing by Myra Monroe
My husband and I have always dreamed of living on the water. When we got married in 1995, we had our engagement pictures taken on one of our favorite lakes in North Central Florida. In the early years of our marriage, we loved to drive around this region searching for lake property to call our own. Back then, however, home values were at their peak. We could never find property that we could afford. After several years of searching, we gave up on our dream, assuming it was not part of God’s plan for us. A couple of years ago, my husband and I were taking our son to camp when we passed by this lake that we loved so much. We noticed a for sale sign, so we decided, just for fun, to see what property was for sale. Were we ever surprised when we happened upon the very house we had dreamed about owning many years before. At that moment, we realized our dream had not died; rather, it was buried deep within our hearts. As we stood on the property overlooking the water, we once again asked God if it would be His will to give us a home on this lake. This dream seemed so farfetched at this point in our lives. Many years had passed and so much had changed since we had gotten married. There were many good times as well as hardships. The disappointments of life, including the deaths of our beloved parents had taken a toll on our relationship. We were also stuck in the monotony of our daily routine. It appeared nothing was ever going to change. One day, while having lunch with a friend, it was suggested I needed a change of scenery. She was right! I needed to change my focus from my circumstances to God’s ability to help us. I needed to step out in faith. From this place of despair, we cried out to God for help and healing. As promised in the Word, He heard our cries and He reached down from Heaven to rescue us. Not only did He renew our marriage, but He also gave us the desires of our heart… a place on this beautiful lake. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8, NIV) When we admit that we cannot save ourselves and instead lean on the power of God, placing our full confidence on Jesus’ death on the cross to cleanse our sins and 28
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renew us by His precious blood, He steps in and does the impossible. This is true in our daily lives and it is also true in regards to our eternal salvation. No amount of effort on our part can make us acceptable to God, only the grace offered through Jesus can make us whole. Even the faith required to believe is a gift from God. His amazing power of grace prompted us to name our new lake home ‘Grace Landing.’ On the 18th anniversary of our wedding, we renewed our vows down by the water’s edge. Just recently, to mark the first anniversary of our living in our new home, my husband suggested we put a cross at the end of our dock to remind us of God’s goodness. As my husband, Rob, cut and measured the wood, I marveled at how much had changed in our lives in such a very short time. By the grace of God, our marriage was renewed.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21
As Rob picked up the cross and carried it to the end of our dock, I couldn’t help but think of Jesus, beaten and bruised, carrying the cross on which He would soon be crucified. I thought of the heaviness of Jesus’ footsteps. Humbled by his ever-growing passion for our Savior, I watched as my husband also struggled beneath the weight of the heavy cross (it weighs nearly 150 pounds). As my husband and son nailed the cross in place, the sun shimmered brightly over the lake. It was as if God Himself was shining down upon us; we could feel His presence. Jesus died to free us from the bondage of sin and the hopelessness of our circumstances. With Christ in our hearts, we don’t ever have to live in despair; rather, He can renew our hope and give us a fresh start. Whatever you’re facing today, call out to God. Allow Him to renew the dreams that are suppressed in your heart. God’s power can help you overcome anything and even give you the desires of your heart. Put your faith in the Lord and He will help you. He is able and He is willing to do the impossible for those who love Him. V
Myra Monroe is a wife and mother of two children. She has a background in television news and is currently getting her degree in Theology. She resides in Melrose, FL. www.kojministries.org
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Tuned In “God spoke to me...” I’d hear people say. Really? He did? Out loud? And I’d wonder: why doesn’t He speak to me? I’m right here. I’m available. I always wondered what it was about some people that allowed them to hear so directly from God. Do they have more faith? Are they more connected? Does God just like them better? That was years ago. Since then, God and I have come to an understanding. I’ll be aware that He may not necessarily speak out loud and He’ll be patient knowing that it may take some time before I ‘get’ a message that doesn’t come by way of spoken words. Over the years I’ve found that God connects with people in nearly endless ways. Although some people actually hear God’s voice, often He communicates in other ways. It’s up to us to be alert and ready to receive a message no matter how it comes. Here are just a few ways God has touched me, moved me, and spoken to me without my ever hearing an audible word: The Bible. Of course, God speaks to us through the inspired writers of the Bible. Often, these words will spring to life as day-to-day circumstances unfold. There are two things I take away when this happens: one is God’s direction with what I’m dealing with at the moment; the second is confirmation that I’m not the first person to have ever dealt with this situation and likely not the last. Somehow, there is comfort in that. Other believers. There’s a reason God wants believers to gather. We gain momentum when belief comes together. It creates a sort of stored-up faith power believers can then take their separate ways and share, thereby exponentially increasing God’s reach. Often another believer has insight into a situation I’m dealing with and can share that
MINISTRY NEWS
wisdom with me. If I’m open to hearing it I can get God’s direction through their counsel. His creation. It’s hard to see the world--the complexity of our life systems--and not see God’s amazing work. Every day offers a new opportunity to be inspired. God can remind me, without words, that I’m a valuable piece of the amazingly intricate puzzle of creation--even on days when I feel down and unproductive. A walk outside or a nuzzle from my puppies can flood my being with peace. God is speaking and I’m getting the message. His prodding. Remember when you were a kid and your mom would just look at you a certain way and you’d get up and do whatever it was you knew you were already supposed to be doing? It didn’t take a word, only a look. God is like that with me. He doesn’t have to give me a word. A thought can arise in my mind multiple times or I may encounter a certain situation over and over again… it’s God’s way of saying, “I want you to deal with this or do that.” When there’s something I just can’t seem to get right I need to consider that God may be trying to tell me something. Perhaps He is saying, “I’m right here and ready to help you but you haven’t once talked to me about this problem.” During those times all I can say is, “I’m sorry, God. I’m praying now!” Then, I wait for His guidance which, for me, hasn’t yet come via spoken words. My point is this… if I don’t have to see God to believe He exists I certainly don’t have to actually hear His voice to know He’s speaking to me. Sometimes I think it’s His way of keeping me on my toes. I have to have my faith radar up at all times and be tuned in spiritually. That said, I am certainly open to hearing His voice should He ever choose to bless me that way! V
by Maureen Lendzion
I always wondered what it was about some people that allowed them to hear so directly from God. Do they have more faith? Are they more connected? Does God just like them better? Maureen Lendzion is enjoying selfemployment as a special projects writer. She and her husband Dennis have been married 37 years and live in Orange Park, Florida.
THE VALUE OF ONE! continued from page 21 ‘one,’ many others would come to know the life-changing power of Jesus Christ through her. As we move forward into the 12th season of In His Wakes ministry, my 8th as the director, I pray for God to give our team His heart and passion for reaching one, as well as many. With the possible addition of another part-time team, the doors seem to be swinging wide open for increasing the number of events in 2014, as well as giving us the flexibility to physically go into the communities of our participants and develop follow-up outreaches.
Will you help us go? Will you help us reach lost souls for Christ… the multitudes and the ‘one’? Our cost is $150.00 per child. Will you sponsor ‘one’? Will you sponsor many? Together, we can help people experience victory, hope, and purpose in Christ Jesus! V ~Nate Miller, Director In His Wakes
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To the End of the Earth by Joan Tyson
“But you shall receive POWER when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” ~ Jesus. (Acts 1:8 NKJV, emphasis author) When Jesus spoke these words to His disciples, it was right after His resurrection and right before His ascension to Heaven where He would be joined with His Father, and sit at His Father’s right hand. I guess you could say that Jesus is God’s right-hand Man! Jesus knew that although the disciples loved Him, they had not yet received the power they needed to live a victorious life. Without this power, they would not be able to impact the world the way Jesus intended, nor withstand the pressures of the world. Christ’s resurrection alone didn’t change the lives of the disciples (see John 21 and notice how they all went fishing again), they needed His power to live the Christian life. That power is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said this power would make us witnesses to Him, first in Jerusalem (our homes and neighborhoods), in all of Judea (our cities, towns, and surrounding areas), in all of Samaria (the place we do not want to go because Jews and Samaritans hated one another), and finally, “to the end of the earth.” For me, witnessing is not propagandizing. It is not grabbing someone, giving them the four spiritual laws, and asking, “Are you saved?” No! For me, witnessing is not so much what we do, but who we are: we are to be people sitting on ‘ready’... ready to be used by God however His Spirit leads so that we can be the “light of the world” Christ has called us to be (Matthew 5:16). Have you heard the phrase, “Bloom where you are planted?” Well, I’ve been ‘planted’ in the public school system. It is there that Jesus has called me to be His light. Every morning when I wake, I look in the mirror and ask two questions, “Who, Lord?” and “Where, Lord?” The “Where, Lord?” is easy. I love my job! For the past 28 years I have taught in the public schools: elementary, high-school, and now middle school. The first 24 years were spent dealing with
emotionally-disabled students; the last four have been with 11 year-olds. I have the privilege of teaching sixth grade social studies. This is my mission field.
For me, witnessing is not so much what we do, but who we are: we are to be people sitting on ‘ready’… ready to be used by God however His Spirit leads so that we can be the “light of the world” Christ has called us to be (Matthew 5:16). Recently I was teaching on the issue of slavery prior to and during the Civil War. One day in class, while I was teaching about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, I shared how she was called the ‘Moses’ of her people. In the back of the room, a boy raised his hand. “Yes, Johnny (not his real name)?” I inquired. “...but Ms. Tyson, who is Moses?” He asked innocently. Silence… seizing the moment, I shared with the entire class who Moses was and all the plagues that God had put on the Egyptian people in order for Pharaoh to obey God’s command to “Let My people go!” When I got to the part about the blood being applied to the doorposts of the Israelites, I explained how it tied in with our Christian heritage and Jesus. “You shall be my witnesses...” This is to be carried out whenever the moment arrives. I’ve also had the opportunity to be His witness in the Samaria’s of the world (those places I didn’t necessarily want to go). For example, when I went through little “c” (this is what I call cancer because
Christ is the BIG “C”!), God allowed me to be His witness to many people at school as they watched me go through treatments. Many of the teachers now ask for prayer. We are to be His witnesses, not do His witnessing. Our lives and attitudes should cause others to want what we have. Do others want what you have? We cannot hide our light under a bushel or just take the light to church on Sundays. Day by day, we are commanded to shine in the world in which He has placed us: in our homes, our neighborhoods, our public schools, the cancer wards, and finally to the “ends of the earth.” It is in those places that God can use us in a mighty way to be a light for Him! V Joan (Joanie) Tyson currently lives in Virginia Beach, VA. She is a member of Redeemer Church in Chesapeake. Joan loves to sing and worship as well as share the Word of God every Monday on the beach. She has two adult children: Miriam and Josh.
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All The Power
by Charlene Jung
How shall they call on Him they have not believed? and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? Romans 10:14 (KJV) I read that God said, “Who will tell them of My great love? Who will share Me in their land?” Then I asked, “Who Lord? Where Lord? How Lord? Me, Lord? There, Lord? When, Lord?” And He said, “That’s right! Step out! Go forth! And You will see I have all the power you need.” Then He sent Me To tell you of His great love. Me! To share Him in this land. So, I went. That’s right! I stepped out, went forth, to this land. And I did see He has all the power I need!
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Now will you step out? Will you go forth? If you do, you too will see He has all the power you’ll need! That’s right! My God has all the power you’ll need! V Charlene is a B.A.B.E. (Born-Again Believer Everyday!) She enjoys writing poetry and short stories. She has 6 (+ 5) children, and 14 grandchildren. Recently married, she and Galen reside in Jacksonville, Fl and attend Bread of Life Open Bible Church.
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