U-Turn for Christ Freedom from Addiction Men s Ranch
|
|
- Eustace Nichols
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Refiner s Fire U-Turn for Christ Freedom from Addiction Men s Ranch Story by Josiah McDonald and Debra Smith Photos by Tom Price Pastor Gerry Brown, founder and director of U-Turn for Christ ranch in Perris, CA, knelt beside Jim Williams lower bunk bed. Pastor, please come pray for me; I am afraid, Jim said in anguish. A new participant in U-Turn for Christ s discipleship program, Jim was experiencing withdrawals from a drug addiction. Gerry quietly assured him, I know what you are going through is terrible right now. We will cry out to Jesus together; put all your trust in Him. God s Word says He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) Gerry took Jim s hand and began to pray. Tears flowed down Jim s face, and his body began to relax from the torment. Afterward, Gerry assured Jim he would feel better soon and that the ranch staff would be with him as he endured this season. Gerry added as he left the room, Maybe someday you ll be the one kneeling beside someone going through withdrawals, and God will help you encourage him! U-Turn for Christ is a two-phase discipleship program meant to replace addiction to drugs, alcohol, or other bondage with new life in Jesus. Begun in 1993 in Perris by Gerry and his wife, Peggy, the family of ranches has since grown to a total of 13 in the U.S. and seven internationally. Plans are underway for two more in Indonesia and Guatemala. Most are only for men, while some have men s and women s sides. The ranches are centered on biblical Staying Close to the Light of Christ Above: At U-Turn for Christ, the day starts early with morning devotions. The men assemble while it is still dark around a roaring fire at The Proverbs Pit at the Perris, CA, ranch. They follow along in their Bibles as the Scriptures are read aloud, which is part of the disciplined spiritual life they are taught to live. 14 Calvary Chapel Magazine 15
2 teachings that direct strugglers to do more than combat addiction, but to seek to know and follow God. The Lord s call is to imitate Him, explained Gerry. We want to help those who come to us grab hold of and understand that goal: Christlikeness. God in Christ forgave you. Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. Ephesians 4:32b-5:1 Freedom s Ripple Effect Before coming to know Christ in 1988, Peggy and I separated for eight months, shared Gerry. During that time, a friend took her to Calvary Chapel Hemet, CA. The friend never went back to church, and Peggy never stopped going. As Gerry and Peggy each reconciled with God through the forgiveness of Christ and then with each other, they overcame their own drug use through God s power. By serving in prison ministry and other venues, they interacted with many struggling with addictions. Gerry recalled, We had nowhere to take them for help. The Lord pricked my heart as I asked Him how to reach those in bondage. He made it clear He was calling us to serve them. The Browns bought the Perris property, which held only a barn. Gerry began sleeping onsite to provide accountability and discipleship to the three initial participants. Peggy sensed God revealing to her that their addiction recovery ministry would be like a pebble thrown into a still pond, creating a long-term ripple effect that reaches shores around the world. One day during this season, Gerry drove past a trailer yard and felt God leading him to stop. Ignoring the feeling, he kept driving but felt it again. Making a U-turn and pulling into the yard, Gerry walked in and asked, Sir, do you believe in destiny? The owner, a southern man from Arkansas, chuckled and replied, What s on your heart, son? Gerry proceeded to share the ministry vision and the need for a building. The man pointed to a youth outside his son, who was addicted to methamphetamines and said that if Gerry helped the young man, Gerry could have any trailer in the yard. Gerry was confident that while he could not deliver the boy, God could. After Gerry shared the message of Christ with them both, the teen surrendered himself to God and agreed to come to the startup ranch for two weeks. The trailer yard owner, upon soon seeing his son sober, loving Jesus, committed to the business, doing things right, Gerry explained, donated three other large mobile homes that are still in use today at the Perris facility. These trailers house the main bunkhouse, the main sanctuary, and the offices, Gerry added. Gerry attributes his verse-by-verse teaching to Senior Pastor Gary Johnson of CC Hemet. Before the Browns joined CC Hemet in 1988, Gerry explained, I had been starved of God s Word. So I began learning, under Gary Johnson, that these verses from Exodus and Matthew and Revelation, for example, all related they had a cohesion that blended to reveal the truth of the Gospel. As Gary taught systematically through the Bible, line upon line, my understanding grew. Meanwhile, an assistant pastor at CC Hemet modeled biblical counseling: Gary Sparks and his wife Billie took on the tedious work of discipling and counseling us. They walked us through so many things, correcting us with compassion using God s Word. It was the process of renewing the mind that God commands. He cited Romans 12:2, which says, And do not be conformed to this world, Above: Pastor Gerry Brown, left, and the men pray for Lance, who is grieving over his father s death. Below: In the morning, U-Turn for Christ residents gather together in a circle formation as they receive their work assignments for that day. The Lord pricked my heart as I asked Him how to reach those in bondage. He made it clear He was calling us to serve them. Pastor Gerry Brown 16 Calvary Chapel Magazine 17
3 but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Gary Sparks now serves on the board for U-Turn for Christ in Kauai. Strength in Interdependence U-Turn for Christ initially cooked outside on a grill, Gerry said. But as we grew, the county wanted us to put in a kitchen. A son of a CC pastor came to the program, gave his life to the Lord, and went into ministry with his dad. He offered to donate the finances to build a kitchen if we had the manpower to build it. We had that in the men [in the program], since serving is a huge component of what we teach. It continued like that, the Lord providing as people saw the need. When Pastor Chuck Smith bought the new Bible College property in Murrieta, CA, he learned from some of our guys helping there that we needed kitchen equipment. He gave us everything: the stove, dishwasher, pots and pans, utensils, refrigerator, serving tables, and more. When you re cooking for 70 people, the equipment is very expensive. So that was an incredible blessing. The entire operation has been a symbiotic relationship with Calvary Chapel churches, Gerry continued. CC Ramona, CA, gave us their bus; their pastor, Rob Hubbard, is a dear friend. Many Calvary Chapels have pitched in at different times to enable us to continue, he commented. Likewise, having the Calvary Chapel pastors know there is a like-minded facility, teaching God s Word and providing opportunity for the Word of God, by the Spirit of God, to penetrate hearts and change people, is mutually beneficial. Overcoming through Submission Todd Wilson, now on staff at the Perris facility, grew up as a pastor s kid in Los Angeles. When he arrived at U-Turn for Christ as a participant in 2014, Todd reflected, I was like most people who come here: shattered. My life had taken so many turns for the worst. I went through college and then six years of seminary, became a pastor, and was still an alcoholic and a drug addict. I knew the theology of how much Jesus loved me, but I had no idea how to Top photos: The men are required to work the ranch farm. Left: Pastor Gerry prays with Jim Williams, who was afraid and suffering withdrawals. Now, Jim is praying with men who are new and going through withdrawals. 18 Calvary Chapel Magazine 19
4 rely on His love instead of needing to get drunk to make it through a day. I didn t know how to translate the Gospel into real life lessons. In 2002 while pastoring in Indiana, Todd got up to preach drunk one Sunday morning. The congregation was horrified, and he was fired that night. Above: Use of the workout area is a privilege granted to men who have devoted themselves to memorizing Scripture and staying in God s Word. Right: Mario Hernandez and his daughter enjoy spending time together. U-Turn encourages Sunday family visits to help restore relationships. Below: Pete Hooley works in the U-Turn For Christ mechanic shop, changing a vehicle s tire. In the work the hard work, in the long days, in being told what to do you learn that it s about submitting our wills to the Lord s will. Todd Wilson For 12 years, Todd ran from everything relating to Christ and His church. He lived homeless in Southern California for several months, devastating himself and his extended family with his decisions. While he was facing a 16-month prison sentence for his fourth DUI in Santa Barbara, CA, the judge offered Todd a chance to go to U-Turn for Christ instead. When he arrived, he recalled, I was brokenhearted. I was going through a divorce that was crushing me, and I was torn up because I had once again let everybody down people who had thought I would change. I had broken their hearts again. I hated my life, and that translated into how I carried myself. I didn t desire to get to know anybody or for them to know me. For Todd, the key to freedom came through submission. This place is all about submitting to the Lord, he reflected. I don t want to call it mysterious, because there is a clear way it happened, but it s not fully explainable either. It s not exactly something you can be taught; it s something you experience. In the work the hard work, in the long days, in being told what to do you learn that it s about submitting our wills to the Lord s will. I said, I m Yours, Lord. I ve ruined my life with my way of doing things, so now I give it to You. I have no idea how to fix my life, but You do. I had a year for that process; some have only two months here. But through that, the Lord showed me what needed to change. I needed to have the truths of the Bible that I knew in my head walked out, translated into a daily lifestyle of obedience. Be still, and know that I am God; Psalm 46:10a Todd had always been an active person, so stillness before God was challenging. He found peace and restoration as he learned the discipline of pausing to focus on and trust in God: When I was scared, being still and looking to Him was the answer, he explained. When feeling guilty, being still. When frustrated, being still. Recognizing that God is God, and I am not, and I can t fix whatever s wrong, but He can. After finishing U-Turn for Christ s first phase of two months, Todd was invited to be an overseer. This entails a second phase of six months of continued discipleship and learning to lead by serving. 20 Calvary Chapel Magazine 21
5 He gradually saw God restore his relationship with his parents and brother and later joined the U-Turn staff, overseeing the men s daily activities such as work assignments and discipline. Learning to Love Before being saved by Christ, Mike Knox took a man s life in After his release from prison, he followed a polytheistic code of blood sacrifices in the mountains of Colorado. I knew something was terribly wrong, Mike recounted. I was running from parole and out of control in every way using drugs and alcohol, womanizing, and involved in gangs. His elderly neighbors, Dawn and Fred, began witnessing to Mike, But it was subtle, he said. I knew they had a relationship with the Lord, but I didn t know what walking with God was all about. One morning Mike called his sister, expecting her to lecture him about growing up and becoming responsible. Instead, she challenged him to get to a church. He immediately called Dawn and Fred, and that morning they explained the Gospel to him. He responded in faith, recognizing his need for freedom through Christ from sin s power. His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness. 2 Peter 1:3a Since that day in September 2012, My life has completely changed, Mike said. Has it been easy? No. And of course there s been a process. But the big difference was conviction. Instantly, I began experiencing conviction of sin. Through God s Word and His people and teaching at church, I realized I shouldn t be involved in idolatry and drunkenness. And God showed me how much He loves me, which changes everything. Mike eventually moved nearer to his siblings in Southern California, where he met a young woman whose father is a Calvary Chapel pastor. They quickly started dating, then began premarital counseling. Soon, however, I picked up a drink and knew instantly that this was not good for me, he said. So after a week or two of mistakes and conviction, I let her know I was going down the wrong road. She suggested I go to U-Turn for Christ. After three weeks on the Perris ranch, Mike was lying in his bunk at 4:50 on a July morning. Covered in flies and feeling hopeless and purposeless, he prayed a prayer of surrender and desperation asking God to change him, recognizing he couldn t change himself. He suddenly felt peace. From then on, Mike stated, I was back in premarital counseling, doing things the godly way. Letters from family and my church started to pour in, letters of love, support, and prayers. That really helped. In mercy and truth atonement is provided for iniquity; and by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil. Proverbs 16:6 I learned at U-Turn for Christ to be obedient to the Lord. He will remove the iniquity from my heart, Mike explained. I m still a mess, but by His mercy and truth, He has purged my iniquities and changed my heart. So I used to have all these issues I don t anymore: anger, depression, anxiety. God has completely renewed my mind and heart. That is only possible through the Lord; the world s greatest minds and philosophers couldn t do that. After completing the initial phase, Mike stayed on for a second phase as an overseer. While here in leadership, Mike continued, one thing has stood out: learning to love. The guys who come through here are not exactly always the easiest to embrace. God is the only source, Mike said, of the strength to love all. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35 In the next issue, the U-Turn for Christ Women s Ranch in Perris, CA, will be featured. Video U-Turn For Christ uturnforchrist.com info@uturnforchrist.com Above: The Friday night service is an opportunity for the men to praise God for what He has done in their lives. Below: A familiar sight for the men who reside at the U-Turn for Christ ranch in Perris, this sign serves as a daily reminder of what the program is all about. 22 Calvary Chapel Magazine 23
Testimony. I grew up in a Christian home. As a young child I knew that Jesus was the son of
Dawn Dietz 1 Testimony I. My life before Christ I grew up in a Christian home. As a young child I knew that Jesus was the son of God and that He was the only way to get to Heaven. My grandma played a big
More information2 Timothy 1:5. Oh The Influence Mothers Have. A school teacher gave her class of second-graders a lesson on the magnet and what it does.
2 Timothy 1:5. Oh The Influence Mothers Have. A school teacher gave her class of second-graders a lesson on the magnet and what it does. The next day the teacher asked her students this question: "My name
More informationSonja. My name is Sonya Perez and this my story. I was molested as a child. Gang Prevention Information for the Church Newsletter
Gang Prevention Information for the Church Newsletter My name is Sonya Perez and this my story. I was molested as a child and raped in my teen years. No matter what I did or tried to do I always ended
More informationthe LORD s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22 23
CC SOUTH BAY Through story by Christine Scheller photos by Tom Price the LORD s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. Lamentations
More informationEasy Clues to Find and Fulfill Your Purpose. Doug Addison [Episode 07] March 8, 2017
Easy Clues to Find and Fulfill Your Purpose Doug Addison [Episode 07] March 8, 2017 Hi, friends, and welcome to another Spirit Connection podcast. This week I want to talk about how easy it is to find
More informationMay 10, Our Fight Is Against Hellenism
May 10, 2011 Our Fight Is Against Hellenism "I will rouse your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece, and make you like a warrior s sword" (Zechariah 9:13) We first heard this verse explained by Lance
More informationUNBORN CALVARY CHAPELS ARE HELPING WOMEN CHOOSE LIFE FOR THEIR UNBORN CHILDREN
A PEOPLE YET UNBORN CALVARY CHAPELS ARE HELPING WOMEN CHOOSE LIFE FOR THEIR UNBORN CHILDREN More than 57 million babies have been aborted in the U.S. since the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. (National Right
More informationSUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON The Life of Jesus
THE MANIAC OF GADARA Elementary Lesson Year Two, Quarter Three, Lesson Eight SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON The Life of Jesus AIM: to use the story of the Maniac of Gadara to teach my class that Jesus can change
More informationSID: Now you don t look old enough for that, but you tell me that you traced these things in your own family back four generations.
1 Is there a supernatural dimension, a world beyond the one we know? Is there life after death? Do angels exist? Can our dreams contain messages from Heaven? Can we tap into ancient secrets of the supernatural?
More informationThe Burden of Youthful Sins. Brendan Mc Crossan
The Burden of Youthful Sins Brendan Mc Crossan The burden of childhood sins Psalm-25-7-remember not the sins of my youth, and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good oh
More informationHOW TO STOP SINFUL HABITS By Andy Manning 1 Peter 2:11. There are a lot of Christians who struggle with sinful habits.
HOW TO STOP SINFUL HABITS By Andy Manning 1 Peter 2:11 The title of this sermon is How to Stop Sinful Habits. There are a lot of Christians who struggle with sinful habits. These are behaviors that you
More informationLIFE GIVING SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
LIFE GIVING SCRIPTURE REFERENCES In life giving ministry it is helpful to know the scriptures that pertain to the area of ministry. Many times simply reading the Word of God to people, praying with them,
More informationLeadership Packet. Week of January 23, This week s Leadership Packet includes
Leadership Packet Week of January 23, 2011 This week s Leadership Packet includes Leader s Notes pages 2-3 Hot Sheet page 4 Ecuador Mission Trip Flyer pages 5-6 www.shadowmountain.org/smallgroups 619.590.2166
More informationCALLED OUT DARKNESS YOU HELPED LIGHT RYAN'S PATH. Heart of the Mission. of the INSIDE THIS ISSUE. Chief of Police, Steve Anderson Mission In My Words
Heart of the Mission SEPTEMBER 2014 CALLED OUT of the DARKNESS YOU HELPED LIGHT RYAN'S PATH 3 6 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Chief of Police, Steve Anderson Mission In My Words Making the Connection Volunteer's personal
More information*All identifying information has been changed to protect client s privacy.
Chapters of My Life By: Lena Soto Advice to my Readers: If this ever happens to you hopefully you won t feel guilty. All the pain you have inside, the people that are there will make sure to help you and
More informationAUDREY: It should not have happened, but it happened to me.
1 Is there a supernatural dimension, a world beyond the one we know? Is there life after death? Do angels exist? Can our dreams contain messages from Heaven? Can we tap into ancient secrets of the supernatural?
More informationHope for uncertain times
Hope for uncertain times Sometimes life throws curve balls at us. Sometimes it feels like we re wading through a pit full of curve balls. In the midst of certain uncertainty, the Bible offers us surprising
More informationFrom Grief to Grace Program No SPEAKER: JOHN BRADSHAW
It Is Written Script: 1215 From Grief to Grace Page 1 From Grief to Grace Program No. 1215 SPEAKER: JOHN BRADSHAW JOHN: You ve heard the Bible stories of people like Job who had everything a man could
More informationSoulCare Foundations I : The Basic Model
SoulCare Foundations I : The Basic Model CC201 LESSON 04 of 10 What Energy Carries You into the Life of Another Larry J. Crabb, Ph.D. Founder and Director of NewWay Ministries in Silverthorne, Colorado
More informationMoses Was A Crummy Father (Exodus 18:2-5 / Father s Day) By Win Green
Moses Was A Crummy Father (Exodus 18:2-5 / Father s Day) By Win Green The fifth commandment is of particular importance to us this morning: Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long
More information5. Me? Forgive THAT Bully?
5. Me? Forgive THAT Bully? The Course Key Verse: 1 Peter 2:20 How should I respond when I suffer for no apparent reason? Matthew 5:43-44; Luke 6:27-28; John 15:12; Ephesians 4:29, 32; Philippians 2:3 4;
More informationMarital Check-up. Single Again. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Marital Check-up Single Again 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 If next Sunday we are starting a new sermon series, then that means this Sunday, we are actually ending the series that we are in on our marital check-up,
More informationTOPICAL MEMORY SYSTEM
OUTSIDE READING ASSIGNMENT TOPICAL MEMORY SYSTEM Used by Permission Topical Memory System 1 BEGIN A LIFETIME OF SCRIPTURE MEMORY AND MEDITATION You can memorize Scripture. The process may seem slow at
More informationMy Easter Story The Unmerciful Servant 4/15/18. -Announce: -We ve been talking about life change for the last several weeks.
My Easter Story The Unmerciful Servant 4/15/18 -Announce: -We ve been talking about life change for the last several weeks. -That s what Jesus, the Resurrected Christ, does and is still doing today. -He
More information31 DAYS OF POWERFUL MOMENTS WITH GOD JEFF LEAKE
31 DAYS OF POWERFUL MOMENTS WITH GOD JEFF LEAKE PRAYING WITH CONFIDENCE Copyright 2015 by Jeff Leake ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published by Salubris Resources 1445 N. Boonville Ave. Springfield, Missouri 65802
More informationOn It s Supernatural, 28 years of anger and frustration were tearing Kathi s marriage apart, she hated herself and was tormented by her past, she
On It s Supernatural, 28 years of anger and frustration were tearing Kathi s marriage apart, she hated herself and was tormented by her past, she called herself Fat Kathi. See how God supernaturally changed
More informationORDINARY PEOPLE DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS: IV A GRATEFUL WOMAN Karen F. Bunnell Elkton United Methodist Church May 29, 2016.
ORDINARY PEOPLE DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS: IV A GRATEFUL WOMAN Karen F. Bunnell Elkton United Methodist Church May 29, 2016 Luke 7:36-50 I ve noticed lately, on talk shows, and in newspapers and magazines,
More informationSET THE CAPTIVES FREE! By Rev. Linda Pierce
SET THE CAPTIVES FREE! By Rev. Linda Pierce Presented at Trinity Community Church, San Rafael, California, on Sunday, August 8, 2010 Isaiah 61:1 NKJV The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, Because the
More informationSUMMER DEVOTIONS WEEK #9: July 27- August 2, 2015
SUMMER DEVOTIONS WEEK #9: July 27- August 2, 2015 This week, I m going to be writing about the character of God. I didn t grow up in church. My understanding of spiritual things was at zero when I received
More informationIf you ve ever known a guy who said, Yeah, Honey, those pants do make you look fat. They are not with us anymore, may they rest in peace.
Famous Last Words #1 Father, Forgive them Today, and for the next 4 weeks we are going to be looking at the words of Jesus on the cross and I pray that the Spirit of God, through His Word, will speak into
More informationNow What? Part Two: The Secret to Contentment F. Remy Diederich
Now What? Part Two: The Secret to Contentment F. Remy Diederich 8.19.18 Outline: 1. A NOW WHAT situation can be when God does his deepest work in you, or you grow bitter. 2. We can all learn the secret
More informationSESSION 3 OVERCOME BEING FORGOTTEN 24 SESSION 3
SESSION 3 OVERCOME BEING FORGOTTEN 24 SESSION 3 When have you rediscovered something you forgot you had? QUESTION #1 #BSFLforgotten OVERCOME 25 THE POINT Keep doing what God has gifted you to do. THE BIBLE
More informationInstagram Jesus: Resisting the Squeeze Mark 1:29-39
February 16-17, 2019 Pastor Ellis White Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church Sermon Notes 1 Instagram Jesus: Resisting the Squeeze Mark 1:29-39 There s something about waiting that forces us to slow down. I
More informationLight in the Darkness. I believe that happiness is a choice. As someone who has struggled with depression I can
Woods 1 Brooklyn Woods ENGL 1010-15 Dr. Julie Simon 11 September 2014 Light in the Darkness I believe that happiness is a choice. As someone who has struggled with depression I can tell you that sometimes
More informationClub VBS 2013 Jungle Jaunt Day 1: Missions Story
Day 1: Missions Story Growing Jalapeños, Sharing Jesus Sometimes the best ideas can come from a plate of Mexican food. Eli Martin,* an IMB missionary in Kosovo, has proof. Before coming to Kosovo, a country
More informationStars Within the Shadow of the Moon. No way! he yelled. His face was turning red with anger at the disobedience of his
Candra 1 Velisia Candra English 100 Formal Assignment #1: Narrative Project October 15, 2018 Stars Within the Shadow of the Moon No way! he yelled. His face was turning red with anger at the disobedience
More informationTo the story of Jehoshaphat, I would like to add the following scripture:
Date: 2016-09-11 SERMON FOR BELIEVE SERIES #14/SINGLE MINDEDNESS Rev. Dr. Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church To the story of Jehoshaphat, I would like to add the following scripture: Matthew
More informationTHE CITY MISSION. A New Day Dawns Annual Report
THE CITY MISSION A New Day Dawns 2016 Annual Report CONTENTS 4 FROM THE CEO 6 HELP 8 HEART 10 HOME A New Day Dawns Arise, shine, for your light has come ISAIAH 60:1 12 VOLUNTEER 14 STATISTICS & FINANCES
More informationThe Parable of the Lost Son Musical Theatre
Community-Developed Author: Harry Harder, and other authors Church: Pleasant Point Mennonite Church Date: 2004 This resource is part of a larger Community Developed Resources collection available as an
More informationPrayers for the overwhelmed
P R A Y E R G U I D E Prayers for the overwhelmed Prayer Guide: Prayers for the Overwhelmed Copyright 2011, PrayerPower, Dallas, Texas prayer guide Prayers for the overwhelmed PrayerPower P.O. Box 801368,
More informationBreaking Free From the Past #2 Clearing the Clutter of the Past Pastor/Teacher, Ken Birks
I. Introductory Remarks. Breaking Free From the Past #2 Clearing the Clutter of the Past In this series of messages we are looking at how we can personally break free from the bondages of the past. In
More informationHOPE & LIGHT CONTINUING GOD S WORK AT CALVARY CHAPEL MORENO VALLEY, CA
Senior Pastor John Milhouse (left) shares biblical wisdom from the Book of Timothy with his son Joel Milhouse (center). Joel, currently youth pastor, will transition into the role of senior pastor within
More informationHallie s Heart. Chapter One: Let s Talk About It:
Chapter One: Let s Talk About It: 1. In the first days following Mona s move to Stewartville, she has a clear awakening to how different life would be in a small town where small comings and goings become
More informationPersonality and Soul Cards
Personality and Soul Cards By combining numerology and Tarot, you can identify which Major Arcana energies are significant for you in this lifetime your personality and soul cards. These energies can be
More informationOur Day Ten A Nation God Blesses IV God s Blessings Look Like Him
Our Day Ten A Nation God Blesses IV God s Blessings Look Like Him We really need His Blessing. Truly in our Day, we are desperate for His Hand of Grace upon our Nation. He is here, and His Presence is
More informationGo tell Luke 8:39 THE POWER OF YOUR TESTIMONY
Go tell Luke 8:39 THE POWER OF YOUR TESTIMONY This sermon is about. and the reading for the month is Luke 8:39. Let s read the whole story Luke 8:26-39 & also Mark 5:18-20. GOD S WISDOM Jesus saw it more
More informationWriter: Sean Sweet Project Supervisor: Nick Diliberto Video: Santos Productions Graphic Design: Creative Juice Graphic Design Editor: Tom Helm
EPIC FAIL LESSON 3 Writer: Sean Sweet Project Supervisor: Nick Diliberto Video: Santos Productions Graphic Design: Creative Juice Graphic Design Editor: Tom Helm 2012 Copyright PreteenMinistry.net 1 EPIC
More informationIn This Issue Miracle of Redemption Outreach Ministry Vision
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Miracle Of Redemption Outreach Ministries, Inc. P.O. Box 1081 Memphis, TN 38101 www.miracleofredemption.org 07/23/15 In This Issue
More informationGod. Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit
Preface Recovery Soldiers Ministries is a group of evangelical believers united in carrying the witness of Jesus Christ to those in need. By His redeeming power, we spread Gods healing to the men, women
More informationby Holly Wagner STUDY GUIDE Riverside Drive Suite 200, Valley, Village, CA telephone:
T H O U G H T S O N A M I S H G R A C E by Holly Wagner STUDY GUIDE 12800 Riverside Drive Suite 200, Valley, Village, CA 91607 telephone: 877.526.2747 www.godchicks.com Thoughts for GodChicks From the
More informationSTOP THE SUN. Gary Paulsen
STOP THE SUN Gary Paulsen Terry Erickson was a tall boy; 13, starting to fill out with muscle but still a little awkward. He was on the edge of being a good athlete, which meant a lot to him. He felt it
More informationThese are the generations of Jacob. Joseph, being seventeen years old, THEN we will have 14 chapters on this one person.
THE LIFE OF JOSPEH 1. At the Age of 17 Genesis 37:1-11 Genesis 37:1-2 1 Jacob lived in the land of his father s sojournings, in the land of Canaan. 2 These are the generations of Jacob.Jacob s father was
More informationLIVING FOR CHRIST AT HOME. A Challenge for Teens
LIVING FOR CHRIST AT HOME A Challenge for Teens Living For Christ at Home: A Challenge for Teens 2017 Elisabeth Rienow All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
More informationDon t Bless the Mess: We Need Something More
SoulCare Foundations II : Understanding People & Problems We Need Something More CC202 LESSON 10 of 10 Larry J. Crabb, Ph.D. Founder and Director of NewWay Ministries in Silverthorne, Colorado Almost everybody
More information2- Emmanuel God with Us Pastor Joe Oakley GFC
1 2- Emmanuel God with Us Pastor Joe Oakley GFC 12-16-18 We are in a Christmas sermon series entitled God With Us. I want to begin today by asking you a question. Why did God come to earth 2000 years ago
More informationLuke 4:14-21 The announcement Jesus made at the beginning of His public ministry is an extreme declaration that would affect everyone in this world.
Luke 4:14-21 The announcement Jesus made at the beginning of His public ministry is an extreme declaration that would affect everyone in this world. It is a message of jubilee, freedom, healing and hope.
More informationSUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON Leaving Egypt
Elementary Lesson Year One, Quarter Two, Lesson Twelve SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON Leaving Egypt AIM: to use the story of crossing the Red Sea to teach my class that God will make a way for them, even when it
More informationDiane D. Blair Papers (MC 1632)
Special Collections University of Arkansas Libraries 365 N. McIlroy Avenue Fayetteville, AR 72701-4002 (479) 575-8444 1992 Clinton Presidential Campaign Interviews Interview with Peter Alexander Dagher
More informationManual for Coding Meaning Making in Self-Defining Memories. (Adapted from Coding Manual for Relationship Memories) Kate C. McLean & Avril Thorne
Meaning-making p. 1 Manual for Coding Meaning Making in Self-Defining Memories (Adapted from Coding Manual for Relationship Memories) Kate C. McLean & Avril Thorne University of California, Santa Cruz
More informationText: Jeremiah 32:1-25 Title: By Faith
Text: Jeremiah 32:1-25 Title: By Faith When is the last time you obeyed the Word of God or a prompting of the Holy Spirit and stepped out on faith not knowing what the outcome would be? Maybe you responded
More informationSoteriology Lesson 14 The Prerequisite of Faith Part Two
Soteriology Lesson 14 The Prerequisite of Faith Part Two By Dr. David Hocking Brought to you by The Blue Letter Bible Institute http://www.blbi.org A ministry of The Blue Letter Bible http://www.blueletterbible.org
More informationThe Church saints and forgiven sinners
The Church saints and forgiven sinners There are people in the church who have been guilty of every sin known to mankind adultery, fornication, wife abuse, child molestation, robbery, murder, drug addicts,
More informationBIBLICAL SUFFERING & PROSPERITY
week 10: biblical prosperity & suffering Prosperity those times when things are exceedingly well Genesis 31:12 But you have said, I will surely make you prosper and will make your descendants like the
More informationThe Farmer and the Badger
Long, long ago, there lived an old farmer and his wife who had made their home in the mountains, far from any town. Their only neighbor was a bad and malicious badger. This badger used to come out every
More informationWhatever Happened to Self-Discipline? Daniel 1:1-5 Dr. Michael Helms September 23, 2018
Whatever Happened to Self-Discipline? Daniel 1:1-5 Dr. Michael Helms September 23, 2018 I received an email a couple of months ago from a young man that lives in Atlanta. He and his fiancée are getting
More informationSERMON The Nativity of Our Lord. December 24, 2004
SERMON The Nativity of Our Lord December 24, 2004 7:00 & 11:00 Isaiah 9:2-7 Psalm 96 Titus 2:11-14 Luke 2:1-20 Brothers and sisters in Christ, grace to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord
More informationJanuary 10, Faith-Filled Hope
January 10, 2016 Faith-Filled Hope Today, we re going to talk about Faith-Filled Hope as we look at the story of two distinctly different people in the Gospel of Mark. And to grasp onto what their stories
More informationSpiritual Leaders Need to Be Humble Followers Courage to Lead Series I Samuel 3:1-4:1a Pastor Bryan Clark
October 3/4, 2015 Spiritual Leaders Need to Be Humble Followers Courage to Lead Series I Samuel 3:1-4:1a Pastor Bryan Clark On one hand it would be a true statement to say, Leadership is leadership, whether
More informationChristian Family Part 3 The Family Altar. Fr. Jacob Nadian
Christian Family Part 3 The Family Altar Fr. Jacob Nadian fatherjacob21@gmail.com Through our Lord Jesus Christ we live in unity with God. We rid ourselves of bitterness, anger, slander so not to grieve
More information2. ABOUT MESSENGER BOOT CAMP
1. intro there is a battle for souls that is raging all around us. in our families. in our neighborhoods. at our workplace and in our schools. Messenger Boot Camp is designed to take you from being a civilian
More informationMy Name is Forgiven. July Beginning thoughts. Study by Dana Copeland Guide by Carolyn Michael
July 2014 My Name is Forgiven Study by Dana Copeland Guide by Carolyn Michael Beginning thoughts Adultery is so prevalent and in the news with politicians, movie stars, church leaders and also common people.
More informationSUFFERING Part A - From Disobedience Part - B Suffering of Christ Part C - Dealing With Suffering as a Christian Compiled by Lewis A.
SUFFERING Part A - From Disobedience Part - B Suffering of Christ Part C - Dealing With Suffering as a Christian Compiled by Lewis A. Armstrong 17 Part A - From Disobedience Exodus 3:7 Then the Lord said,
More informationCan You Help Me Find My Smile?
Bible Edition Summary The bear cub Teddy is a grumpy bear. Even though he had been a happy baby from a loving family, along the way he had lost his smile. He doesn't enjoy any of the things that usually
More informationSaturday, September 14 : Hours 1 and 2: Women Only Shelbi Cullen 8:45-9:35am Helping Your Counselee Run the Race and Finish Strong
Advanced Class Weekend I Complete Assignments List The BCDASoCal Advanced Class provides powerful studies from God s Word for Christians in active ministry. You can benefit from the teaching of some of
More informationSIGNS OF SURRENDER A WEEK LONG DEVOTIONAL JOURNEY. Written by Bob Buchan
SIGNS OF SURRENDER A WEEK LONG DEVOTIONAL JOURNEY Written by Bob Buchan We invite you to take a journey with us in deepening your worship. There is a devotional and reflection each day this week as well
More informationI want to tell you all about a man named Jeff Grant. In the 1990 s, Jeff was a lawyer in Westchester County, New York.
Sermon 4.1.2018: Easter Sunday! Rev. Angela Wells I want to tell you all about a man named Jeff Grant. In the 1990 s, Jeff was a lawyer in Westchester County, New York. He specialized in real estate law
More informationAttitudes of Christ #5 Christ and Your Thought Life Isaiah 26:3
Attitudes of Christ #5 Christ and Your Thought Life Isaiah 26:3 As we continue our series titled The Attitudes of Christ, I want to talk to you a little while about the importance of guarding your mind
More informationPRAYER DIARY A L A B A S T E R J A R
2019 PRAYER DIARY A L A B A S T E R J A R "Love is never stationary" (Bob Goff, Love Does) Since 2006, Alabaster Jar Berlin has been sharing the love and grace of Jesus with men and women trapped in the
More informationJanuary-February 2019 Volume 9, Issue 1. UPDATE FROM PASTOR RUSS AND ANNE LORIA The Father s Heart: established April 30, 2011
January-February 2019 Volume 9, Issue 1 Psalm 127:3: Children are a heritage from the LORD. Rochester's Mobile Soup Kitchen For Christ Isaiah 6:8: Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall
More informationGod has provided freedom from addiction for every believer. Most are not experiencing it as their emotions, experiences and what others say tell them
God has provided freedom from addiction for every believer. Most are not experiencing it as their emotions, experiences and what others say tell them they they are not free and what they need to do to
More informationIt s Supernatural. SID: Hello. Sid Roth here Now Steve STEVE: SID: STEVE:
1 SID: My guest heard from God on how you can be fearless and successful in the perilous times we're coming into. I want you to get this revelation. Is there a supernatural dimension, a world beyond the
More informationCalvary Chapel South Bay Women s Ministry. A Woman of Virtue. Part 2. This Homework Belongs To: Phone Number. My Group Leader is: Group Number
Calvary Chapel South Bay Women s Ministry A Woman of Virtue Part 2 This Homework Belongs To: Phone Number My Group Leader is: Group Number Calvary Chapel South Bay Women s Bible Study A Woman of Virtue
More informationLesson How does David come onto the Biblical scene? (1 Samuel 13:13-14, 1 Samuel 16, 2 Samuel 5:10)
Lesson 1 1. How does David come onto the Biblical scene? (1 Samuel 13:13-14, 1 Samuel 16, 2 Samuel 5:10) 2. What happens to David in 2 Samuel 11-12? 3. What does Solomon s birth prove? 4. What was David
More informationHell is Real, I went there!
Hell is Real, I went there! by Jennifer Perez The testimony of a 15 year old girl who was raised in a Christian home. She later backslid in her walk, found herself overdosing on drugs, dieing, and being
More informationSan Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ Sermon from Rev. Annette J. Cook Preached on Sunday, June 17, 2018
SCRIPTURE READING Luke 15:11-32 11 Jesus said, A certain man had two sons. 12 The younger son said to his father, Father, give me my share of the inheritance. Then the father divided his estate between
More informationOur Limitations. Recognizing. Notes: Step 1. Recognizing Our Limitations. 12 Twelve Steps In Christ
Notes: Step 1 Recognizing Our Limitations 12 Twelve Steps In Christ Step 1 Step 1 When I cannot stop my sins, I... For Further Thought: Step 1 We recognize our inability to overcome sin by our own efforts
More informationAll Faith, No Fear. Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. HEBREWS 11:1
1 All Faith, No Fear Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. HEBREWS 11:1 I was hundreds of miles away from home as a freshmen student at the Air Force Academy
More informationThe Lord Has Risen Indeed!
Adult Teacher s Commentary Sept. Nov. 2012 The Lord Has Risen Indeed! ADULT By Diana M. Stucky 1 March December 31 2 2013 2012 for use as STEP 1. Focus: Receive the risen Jesus. Bible Basis: Luke 24:13-21,
More informationGalatians. Week #8: October 26 & 27, Galatians 5:16-26
Galatians Week #8: October 26 & 27, 2013 Galatians 5:16-26 In the Melanesian Islands of the South Pacific during WWII, the islanders watched closely as the American & British engineers came in and built
More informationGod In The Manger: REPENTANCE
God In The Manger: REPENTANCE Matthew 3:1-12 John s message turns our mind to Christ. A sermon preached by Rev. Dr. William O. (Bud) Reeves First United Methodist Church Fort Smith, Arkansas December 4,
More informationDo babies go to heaven when they die? Sept. 20, 2015 Brian R. Wipf
1 Do babies go to heaven when they die? Sept. 20, 2015 Brian R. Wipf Today we begin our Good Question sermon series with this question: Do babies go to heaven when they die? And we could probably expand
More informationNativeNewDay. Our DutytoMan
NativeNewDay 9 Our DutytoMan W e are proud of the heritage we have as Native people. In our culture, we are taught to care for each other. Whenever people have a need in a village, others watch out for
More informationCopyright 2014 William F. High United States of America. This book may not be copied or reprinted for commercial gain or profit.
Copyright 2014 William F. High United States of America. This book may not be copied or reprinted for commercial gain or profit. The use of short quotations or occasional page copying for personal or group
More information21 Days of Prayer & Fasting
21 Days of Prayer & Fasting BIG IDEA The Lord is our Breaker and is able to break through any barriers in our lives that hinder us from knowing Him and making Him known. SERIES SCRIPTURE Micah 2:13 NKJV
More informationJeremiah 1:1 - The words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, one of the priests at Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin.
Text: Jeremiah 1:1-10 Title: Take Your Life Seriously Let s open our Bibles today to the book of Jeremiah. Go to the middle of your Bible, take a right and go about four books and you ll be there. I m
More informationA Special Gift To: The Letter to the Ephesians
A Special Gift To: By On I pray that your love will have deep roots. I pray that it will have a strong foundation. May you have power with all God s people to understand Christ s love. May you know how
More informationIN THE MOMENT OF PRESENT TRUTH
IN THE MOMENT OF PRESENT TRUTH "THE GODHEAD" scottstanley That He may open the perfectly sealed book And deliver you from all iniquity And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this
More informationStop Fearing, Keep On Believing
Stop Fearing, Keep On Believing We have been following Jesus from one hopeless situation to another. We have witnessed the Lord Jesus demonstrate His power over a stormy sea; a demonpossessed man and a
More informationMessage Not a Fan 04/30/2017
1 Message Not a Fan 04/30/2017 Is Jesus enough! Good Morning Church! God is Good! and All The Time! So I didn t want to Miss the opportunity to bring you the Last sermon/message of the Not a Fan preaching
More informationHOW TO BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
HOW TO BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT The Main Thing: God gives us the Holy Spirit so we can successfully live the Christian life. Invite your disciple to be filled with the Holy Spirit by faith, explaining
More information