OVERJOYED Testimonies of Faith
Letter From The Editor
Testimonies are like houses, they come in all shapes and sizes according to the experiences of a person. They welcome others in, offer support, and make you feel seen and loved. A testimony is a catalyst for connection- The connection between people and God.
Jesus knows the value of speaking what you have seen and heard. He knows the power that is in praise. Satan also understands and will do whatever he can to keep a testimony from being released into the ears of those seeking redemption. This magazine is rich with testimony. What it is, why its important, life-saving, gracefilled, Jesus moments that have shaken the darkness right out of life.
Thank you for taking the time to read these beautiful women’s experiences with the Lord. They are powerful and will bless you with the simple gospel hidden in plain sight.
Revelation 19:10 tells us, “...the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Are you looking for your miracle? Then grab hold of one today and claim the same Word for yourself. Testimony releases faith, faith releases power, and Jesus does it all.
Be encouraged today there is a turnaround is waiting for you. The Lord wants to move in your situation and will. He is waiting for the right moment to release the most glory so others might look at what He has done for you and receive Living Hope.
God bless you and keep you,
Ashley Ennis
O v e r a n d O v e r
Lori Stevens
A testimony is a declaration or public acknowledgement. It is stating what has happened and what was experienced. We often think about sharing a testimony at church. That word is used often in reference to sharing something God has done for you during a church service or with someone else. It is also used in courts when someone testifies as a witness.
If someone asked me what my testimony was, it would be hard to just think of one thing. God has been good to me over and over. I am blessed with a wonderful husband, children that are now grown, a home to live in and a good job. I am blessed with a wonderful church family. I could name so many blessings that God has given. That is a grand overall description. Each of those areas come with great difficulties and great victories.
I was raised in church pretty much from the moment I was born. I had parents that loved God and raised us to love God too. They didn't just 'preach' it, they lived it. Were they perfect? No. I know they had faults and they failed at times. They would not disagree with that. But they did raise us up to know God.
My testimony is that I still believe what they taught me.
I had so many instances in my life that could have taken me down paths that would have led me away from God. In high school I was teased for being a Christian. In college, I could so easily have joined in on activities that could have destroyed me or my faith. It was so hard not to give in to those things. I experienced true struggles with what I wanted to do versus what I knew was right. I made a few mistakes. I made some wrong decisions. I could have easily continued on some wrong courses. I heard information that went contrary to what the Bible taught. I had to determine for myself what I really believed.
I had to search the scriptures and make a decision to serve God. Psalm 77:6 describes " my soul made diligent search." I had to search out God and experience him on my own. My parents could not do this for me. But they could pray. I know my parents prayed everyday for us.
I read many books, read the Bible, and asked God to give me a sure understanding of who He is. I wanted to know beyond a doubt that God was who he said he was and that he really loved me. I began a journey then that I am still marching today.
In James 1:5 says If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
I asked for wisdom about God himself.
God's voice became a reality to me through this search. I began to recognize that still small voice.
Often, I heard, "Trust me. "
I have learned that when I search for a solution to a problem, the real answer is to trust God. He always has a plan and a purpose through all things.
I prayed for a good man in my life, God said, "Trust me. " When I finally quit looking and let God handle it. He sent me the one I needed.
I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
Psalm 77:6
When I needed God to help my baby through a traumatic birth, "God spoke, "Trust me. " He healed and brought my baby through so many things.
When I was raising my babies and prayed over them, "God always said, "Trust me. " He has not failed and my children are good christian young adults and in relationships with godly individuals. God answered my prayers.
Through painful losses of my parents, my tears were seen of God and he again asked me to trust him He asks to me trust.
I can testify that when I trust him, he is faithful. He is good. He is powerful. He is healing. His is my peace and he is my restorer. He takes care of though all things.
I still need him to remind me to trust him, even now. I can recall all the times that trusting God led to victory and healing.
God has led me through every day good and bad when I place my faith and trust in him alone. He has led me to this place in my life where I am a pastor's wife and teach a monthly ladies Bible study. I have taught Bible studies, Sunday School, youth group, and am beginning some new areas.
Each new day and each new door requires I trust in God. I may not understand the path but He knows it already. That is my testimony still continuing beyond today.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
DON’T HOLD BACK
Heidi McCullers
A testimony is a witness to God’s power, faithfulness, and grace. The Bible tells us in Revelation 12:11, "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." Our testimonies are not just stories; they are weapons against darkness, reminders of God's goodness, and invitations for others to encounter Him.
Jesus’ Testimony
Even Jesus had a testimony. He came to reveal the Father, to testify to the truth, and to fulfill God’s plan for salvation. When standing before Pilate, He declared, "For this reason I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth." (John 18:37). His entire life—His miracles, teachings, death, and resurrection was a testimony of God’s love for us.
He said, “The works that I do in my Father’s name testify about me. ” (John 10:25). Every act of healing, every word of truth, and ultimately, His sacrifice on the cross were all part of His testimony. And because of His testimony, we have hope. Your Testimony Matters
If you have accepted Jesus into your heart and believe in His word, then you have a testimony a story of redemption, transformation, and grace. Your testimony may not be filled with dramatic events, but no encounter with God is small. Whether He has healed you, given you peace in a storm, or simply opened your eyes to His love, that is a testimony worth sharing. Yet, many of us hesitate. Maybe we feel our testimony isn't "big enough" or we fear rejection. But Jesus commands us, "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you. " (Mark 5:19). To stay silent is to withhold the very thing that could encourage someone else to seek God.
Are You Holding Back?
Are you hesitant to share your testimony? If so, why? Are you afraid of judgment? Do you feel like your story doesn’t matter? The enemy would love to keep us silent, but God moves in our lives so we can proclaim His goodness.
Psalm 107:2 says, "Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe."
If God has saved you, restored you, or walked with you through the fire, you have something worth telling.
After His resurrection, Jesus gave this command: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." (Mark 16:15). This wasn’t just for the disciples—it’s for all who believe in Him. When we share our testimony, we are fulfilling Jesus’ call to spread His truth.
I challenge you today: Go deeper. Ask yourself what is holding you back. Your testimony could be the very thing that leads someone else to Jesus.
God moving in anyone ’ s life and revealing who He is, is no small act.
Will you share what He has done?
F a i t h f u l
Janis Duvall
When I was asked to give a testimony. I began to think about all the things that I could talk about. What would I want people to know about in my life.
I begin to think about how that all throughout my life God has always been there and has been faithful to me at every crossroads, at every trial, at every junction of my life.
The definition of testimony is a declaration of the truth. Throughout the Bible we see the importance of testimony. It declares by it’s very essence the faithfulness of God down through the years.
It began when the children of Israel were instructed to place a omer of manna in the ark to tell how that God had provided them food in the desert and it kept reappearing through their whole journey. (Exodus 16:32-34) The fact that the clothes did not wear out nor their shoes. In the whole 40 years that they wandered in the desert God was there and He provided whatever they needed.
“And I have led you forty years in the wilderness: your clothes are not waxen old upon you, and thy shoe is not waxen old upon thy foot.”
Deut.
29:5
He was the fire by night and the cloud by day to provide them direction and so they would know that He was always there. When at the end of their journey God told Joshua to get 12 stones from the midst of the Jordan River and to make a memorial so that every time, they passed by they could recount the stories and tell their children about the way God had provided a way when there seemed to be impossible. It was important for them to tell the stories. Testimonies are to be recounted repeatedly to proclaim the goodness, faithfulness and the nature of God. It makes one to understand what David was stating in Psalms 31:19:
“Oh, how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!”
Or, in Psalms 107:15-21-31, “Oh, that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!”
As I look back over the years of my life I think back to when I was a child. The very first time I remember being healed was when I was eight years old. I had an allergic reaction and had broken out into hives all over my body. I remember that I was miserable and had been so for several days. I laid on the bed and recall praying and asking God to heal my body and to do so in a certain time frame. By the time my parents returned home from church I was healed. As I was thinking about being healed this week, I realized that I have never had hives like that again. God healed me completely and they never returned.
I was saved at the early age of eight and was filled with the Holy Spirit by the time I was twelve. Used in the gifts of the Spirit as well and was teaching Sunday School at the age of sixteen. My deepest regret was in my late teens I fell away from my relationship with the Lord. During those years the Lord was so faithful to me that it is impossible to tell all the things that He did. I know that He kept me safe, continued to deal with me and draw me back to Him. During that time, I realized just how important it was to keep a real love alive for the Lord. For it is the “goodness of God that leadeth thee to repentance.” (Romans 2:4)
I have served the Lord most of my life. What a good life it has been. Sure, we have had some very hard trials during our lifetime, but God was so faithful during those times. During my early married years, we suffered the loss of two children within the space of six months. It was the faithfulness of God that brought us through. Since, then God has brought us through infertility, adoption, the birth of our sons, heartbreak, and restoration. Though there were some very difficult days, many tears cried and some long, hard nights.
God has been faithful. There is no words to describe all that He has brought us through. I don’t want to discount the difficulty that we had but God was our mainstay.
I would not be the person I am today without the faithfulness of God. The testimony I wanted to give was not mine but His. I want to declare the truth of His continual involvement in our lives.
In Roman’s 8:28 that all things work together for good to them that love God. Every trial that we have gone through only reinforced our knowledge that our steps are ordered by the Lord.
‘Now, thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place” 2 Co 2:14
testify!
Debbie Young
“Let the Redeemed of the Lord say so. ”
Psalm 107:2
I’m sure all of us can remember a time when we sat on the edge of our seats while listening to someone share their powerful testimony of how they were save, healed or delivered from something that held them in bondage.
We could sense the excitement as they shared the details and feel the power of God as they spoke, almost as if we were there with them when it happened.
As it turns out, there is more to this than you might realize!
Recently, I was listening to Dutch Sheets, one of my favorite ministers, as he gave some insight on this subject. He had noticed that people were being healed while listening to others share about their particular healing.
For example, someone was giving their testimony about being healed of a hearing problem, and others in the room began to be healed of the same thing.
It was as if faith was being released and the power of God was flowing from the testimony for others to experience the same kind of healing.
He went on to share that he had discussed this with a Jewish Rabbi who said that the root word for “testimony” in Hebrew (edut, pronounced Ay doot) actually means “to repeat, to do something again, or literally “to do time again.” He said it does not just mean to tell about something or to give witness to something.
The Jews believe that when we share what God has done for us in the past, it’s like coming full circle back to when He first blessed us and the same power is released for Him to do it again.
This explains why the Jewish community is so intentional about sharing all their past stories with their children. This is one of the main purposes for their feast days; to teach the next generation of all the miraculous things God has done for them, even going back thousands of years. If they failed to do this, they were not only failing to inform their children, they were failing to rerelease God’s miraculous power over them. They believe God’s power can be released again and again.
I believe this same principle can be applied to our testimonies today! Not only do we encourage and inspire faith to rise when we testify, we also release the power of God to do it again! Praise God!
I’ve encountered people who were skeptical about God and did not believe the Bible to be true. The best way to reach those people is to share your testimony with them. They many not let you show them chapter and verse on how to be saved but I’m pretty sure they can feel the power of God being released from your testimony. They cannot deny that you encountered a loving God who had the Power to change your life!
We need to share the Good News. It is “the power of God unto salvation”! When we share our testimony it releases God’s power over and over again.
So let’s tell our stories! Be quick to share all that God has done for you! You might be surprised to see what God will do with the power that is released from your testimony.
Some of these concepts were taken from:
GIveHIm15 Dutch Sheets
The Power of a Testimony
February 6th, 2025
YOUR STORY
Shannon Yarbrough
"Your story is the key that can unlock someone else’s prison." – Author unknown
To whomever is reading this post…..I have an exercise for you. Stop reading and touch your nose. No seriously, touch your nose. Did you do it? Next, wiggle your left toe. Any left toe. Did you do that? One last thing….touch something around you. Don’t overthink this. Just touch something. ANYTHING!
Did you touch something? In the last 30 seconds you just experienced something you weren’t expecting to. Just like that. And the reality is this, NO ONE will ever be able to say you didn’t or it wasn’t real because you KNOW that moment is real. If you were called to tell someone about those 30 seconds you could look them in eyes and say YES my nose is on my face, my left toe wiggled and whatever you touched around you is real. If someone came to you and tried to convince you it wasn’t you could walk away from that argument off because you know better. That’s a testimony.
A testimony is one of the greatest tools we have as believers. People will argue that the sky is blue, grass is green, the earth is round and beans and cornbread are the best meal EVER. BUT a testimony goes beyond an opinion. It is a pivotal moment in the heart and life of the believer that forever changes them. It is almost as if we are marked by something but it NEVER comes off. We walk around the rest of lives with this mark on us. An opinion is something that can change. We can have an opinion about something and it be based off only partial facts. But when you experience something that moment becomes a piece of what makes up who you are. You are marked by it.
King David’s life is made up of moments like this. And he used these moments as a weapon. When he went to kill Goliath, he told the ones that were saying he couldn’t do it that he had killed a lion and a bear already. So what’s this giant to him and God?
1 Samuel 17:34-36 “And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God.”
We often quote that he had sling to defeat Goliath. But before he had ever picked up a smooth stone he wielded his testimony. He had walked through adversity before and knew that the Lord would deliver him and his nation. It was his testimony that convinced King Saul to put him into the fight. Not his stature, his many degrees, his wealth or who his daddy was. It was his testimony.
A testimony is what drives us. When you have experienced something, NO ONE will ever be able to convince you that you didn’t. Again, a testimony isn’t founded on an opinion but it is founded on something that has forever marked you. You can look someone dead in the eyes and tell them with certainty that you KNOW the Lord has moved. David was able to speak definitively to King Saul. He bore the marks of the previous battles with a lion and a bear. So what was a giant that was just a man to David and His Lord?
How we wield our testimony will determine how our battles go. Do we look back at the times that the Lord has moved in our lives or in the lives of others and recall them to mind when we need a new weapon in our arsenal? When we understand that our testimonies are weapons in our hands and they will be used to deliver ourselves and nations, we can see why the enemy will fight so hard to keep us quiet. Instead start repeating them. Say them out loud, write them down. Bring to remembrance the scriptures you held onto. Sing the songs of remembrance that lifted you up.
1 Samuel 17: 37 “David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee.”
Adversity is a real thing. It can come from others, ourselves, from the devil himself and even the Lord at times. The reality is that without adversity many times we don’t grow. Without being challenged we don’t know we need to pursue something more. The children of Israel went through that. Hebrews 11 records numerous moments in the lives of the Lord’s children that He took them through adversity. We now see their adversity and we can say that if the Lord took them through challenging times He WILL bring us through. Their testimonies have delivered many from their prisons!
It was the adversity that turned to faith builders that have steadied many, many believers. Our testimonies are the faith building blocks for others.
I want to personally say thank you to each person that shares your testimony. Over the course of my life I have looked to you and have watched the Lord move in your lives. No testimony is too small or insignificant. Each one of your testimonies have been the road mender for others to travel on. You have made a difference. Thank you for allowing the Lord to use you and thank you for being bold to share your testimony!
HisWitness
Kim Hon
Isaiah 43:10 “ God declares ”You are my witnesses” and calls his people to testify to His existence and power.” When you first meet someone, what do you do? Do you automatically become fast friends with the person, or do you watch and wait to find out who that person is? So many people are like this with God. Because they cannot see him, they need evidence that he is here watching over us. One way that this happens is when people give their testimony.
The definition of testimony is this – a formal written or spoken statement, especially one given of law , evidence or proof provided by the existence or appearance of something , a public recounting of a religious con experience. It is also the act one ’ s personal exp encounters, and reflections work in our lives. Testimo inspire others and strengt faith, showing the transformat of Christ. They often high change that has come ab person ’ s life.
It’s a personal narrative or account of a Christian’s faith journey, highlighting how they came to believe in Jesus Christ and the impact of that faith on their life, often shared to encourage others and bear witness to God’s faithfulness. It is about sharing how God has worked in a person ’ s life, demonstrating His grace and power.
God calls us to stand as witnesses of Him at all times. He is the I am, the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end. Revelations 12:11 says “ They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” He gives us each our own testimonies, which help to strengthen us and others around us. If someone is close to accepting God as their
If they see that we have f into God’s strength and g will be more likely to wan same thing. Think about it, who knows nothing of G bring people to Christ, succeed with a few, but fo part, people want to kno exists and what he has don lives. They want to know that he your own testimony may them to the truth, and to h patience. Our own testim statement or endorsemen p g the reliability of our God, an expression of appreciation, and affirmation. Those around us need to hear how God brought us out of oppression, and hard times, and turned our world around and upside down. They need to know that he will be there for them, and that he loves them, when they think they are unlovable. Our testimonies give strength and power to what they see, and makes them more apt to want the joy and happiness that we have through God. Have you given your testimony today? If not, maybe you should think about it, as there is someone out there who needs to hear.
answer “Yes” and “Amen” Oh, that we can help someone to know you today, Lord, and that they will fall deeply in love with you. Lord, we thank you for your love for us, and the fact that if we fall away, all we have to do is to call out your name, and you are there. We ask today that you will lead us to someone who needs you, Lord, and that you will help us to show them the way to you. Lord, we just thank you for taking care of us, and still loving us even though we don’t deserve it. Lord, just show us the way to help others learn to really know you. We thank you for everything, Father. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Time to Pray
When we take time
To share a prayer
We'll find that Jesus
Will meet us there
He knows our pain
Before we ask
For Him it's only
A simple task He may not answer
Like we think He should
Just trust He knows What's for our good
Marylou Forrest
Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Anita Tilley
facets
This morning I came across a precious, elderly, and saintly woman recalling a God revelation she had experienced during her devotional time. She had become frustrated when she went to express her praise for her Master. She prayed out loud, “Lord her I sit for such a short period of time searching for adequate words to describe the awe and praise in my heart for what you have done. In your Word, you say that I will praise you for eternity. How will this be possible?” She said she felt His response immediately and boldly, “Child, here you have limited understanding, In eternity I will continually be revealing a new facet of my being to you. There you will be continually coming to know me deeper and be filled with deeper revelation of me. ”
Let’s take a side trip for a moment. I believe each resident in heaven will have a unique story of how they came to realize they needed a Savior. Let’s envision a place that lives in my imagination. This is not necessarily built on a specific scripture but my imagination, come with me nonetheless. A hillside in heaven, a warm sunny day, the hillside is dotted with groups of people talking in the grass. Some are laughing, but each person is listening intently to the others.
Occasionally, you will see one person embracing another as they laugh. The sun is shining so softly you can see the grass absorbing the rays as if drinking in a glass of cool water. The wind is blowing gently but it sounds like a humming. You can tell there are words to the melody. The breeze playfully stops long enough to brush a strand of hair across the laughing girls face. She smiles at the unseen friend. The wind wanted to make sure her amen was heard as she communed with the group. One of the group, a young man, is telling a story and his face becomes colored with glitter. The glitter is coming from his eyes as he says “I was hung on a cross beside the lamb, I saw His suffering, I saw His innocence, but I thought I could not touch Him. (Luke 23:29-43) he didn’t do anything wrong like I had done. I deserved my punishment, I knew I needed Him as I cried out “ Jesus remember me when you enter your kingdom.”
As he turned his eyes to look into mine I felt life come into me. “Today you will be with me in paradise”.As the man grabs his neighbors hand, they both jump to their feet as he shouted “He said you are coming with me ” the part of me that was a liar, thief, and murderer was left on that cross and now I am here with you. The two dance around the group as a song begins in another group nearby.
All creation will burst forth in praise!
The soldier who died on the battefield will describe how scared they were till Jesus appeared. The momma who said goodbye to her son and grandson will tell hours long stories of how Jesus showed up every moment of each day to get her feet out of bed. The parents whose child lay in a coma will tell how hope kept returning to them to encourage them to believe.
The rejected will testify how they realized they not only were accepted but treasured. Where did Jesus reveal himself to you and say come with me? Eternity will reveal truths our earthly minds cannot conceive.
It’s all about JESUS.
Meet me on that mountaintop and let’s talk.
Friday Nights in the Garage
Rhonda Woody
You never know where God is going to take you. For Larry and I it started with a tidbit that God dropped into our minds. “Let's have a little Bible study, we can ask a few friends to come to the house on Friday night ” , “Okay, let's do it!”. Honestly, I thought it would last maybe a month and then people would get busy and the excitement would fade away and that would be that. I had no idea what God had planned. We asked a dear friend if he would lead the study. So we stepped out in (little) faith and invited two other couples to our home! That is proof that the mustard seed thing is powerful!
We didn’t want it to really be a social gathering so we didn’t offer food or refreshments. Just told our friends to bring their Bibles and their love for Jesus. The first night 5 of us joined together and we focused on the word of God. The second Friday night we were surprised that 8 people showed up. How exciting was that!
On a whim that night I decided to write down who attended and what we talked about, and I am so glad I did because now I have a record. That night there was a man that someone invited and he came alone. He had been broken! His life had been a mess and he had met Jesus. He told about his personal account of how God has changed his life. He shared God’s love and grace with us! And guess what, he had a testimony. But the story does not end there.
The Bible calls people to “always be ready” to share their testimony with others. I Peter 3:15 “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” How we live our lives is the greatest testimony. That is what people see you do, how you act, the things you say and how you treat others. Those things should mirror Jesus. Matthew 24:14 says “ this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations.” We must share how God has been faithful in the situations of life, this encourages others to trust in God.
A testimony creates an atmosphere in hearts that opens a place for God to move in the lives of others.
Let's backtrack a little, in July 2021 Larry was in UAMS Hospital and he had a dream. In the dream thousands of people were slain in the Spirit. As we talked about it I asked him what he thought that meant, he said a great revival was coming. We thought that meant we would see another great revival like the one in Pensacola, Florida in the 1990’s. We are just two normal people, there's no way that we would have a role in that. So when the bible study idea came up we never put the two events together. Fast forward to October 18, 2022 we had our first Bible study. By December I was moving the furniture out of my living room into the kitchen so we could set up lawn chairs for people to sit in. When there was no more room for lawn chairs, people sat on the floor. Then God told me to get the garage prepared because we were going to need the room. We started having different speakers each Friday night, we would open with prayer and move on to praise and worship.
People began to give their testimonies; they told of the blessings that God has so freely given them, the healings that He has performed in their lives, the terrible oppressions that God delivered them from, just to name a few.
Now what role does Larry and I play in this,
(1) We pray over the meetings during the week
(2) We put a sign at the front door that said, “the door is open, come on in.” (3) We put out an invitation on Facebook every Thursday (4) We set back and watch God move
In the last 28 months, 126 Friday nights, people have always showed up at our door. One night in 2023 the roads were icy and we thought no one would come. But one young man came walking in and that night he gave his life back to Jesus! What a wonderful night that was. Some nights we have had as many as 37 people here. In those 28 months we have seen so many souls saved, people filled with the Holy Spirit, visual healing where legs grew, documented healing where cancerous tumors were no longer there, witnessed people growing in their walk with God and countless other miracles.
As far as denominations go, everyone is welcomed. One night we had a Nazarene, Catholic, Baptist, Assembly of God, United Pentecostal, Morman, Atheist, and Non Denominational all in one service. The Holy Ghost moved over that meeting, lives were changed and we were all in one accord. Isn’t that just how God works.
Have we seen the thousands slain in the spirit, not yet. Will we see thousands slain in the spirit in our garage, maybe, if that's God’s plan. Maybe it will be through the almost 300 people that have come through our home. Maybe it will be as these people go out and reach others for the kingdom, we don’t know. God is faithful and He is changing lives. What we do know is that until God tells us differently, on Friday nights the door of our house is open, you don't have to knock, just come on in. Just follow the sound of people loving God, it will lead you straight to the garage.
Friday Nights in the Garage
Larry & Rhonda Woody
143 Hogan Roberts Loop Atkins, AR 72823
That little tidbit that God dropped into our minds, made its way to our spirits and we are very blessed. The garage is a place of encouragement, restoration, renewal and it is a safe place to pour your heart out to God. All because of the people who attend. What a blessing each one has been to us.
“And they overcame by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony…” Revelation 12:11
My Life in Jesus Christ
Allene Duvall
Testimonies are created from events in our live that prompt response emotionally, physically or burns in our memory. They are as different as figure prints! And are ever changing! Often, when we look at our life and see occurrences that we persevered through, we do not recognize the significance of these in the spiritual realm (not realizing God was in the mist of it all). In fact, many of the events in our lives that shape our testimony occurred before we are aware of His presence in our lives! These experiences often open doors that without them, the heart of the receiver would be hard and nonreceiving to the “good news” message.
Before I understood the value of declaring Gods Word, He carried me through many trials, events of life when I did not see what God was doing. I saw no real testimony of power in the events of my life. I even thought my plain ordinary life would be boring and would not be anything that would cause someone to want to hear about Jesus.
Today I share my testimony (the events of my life, thus far) to open doors that will allow me to testify of Jesus, His life, His death, and His resurrection. Without a doubt when that little girl walked forward on a Sunday morning back in august of 1965 and asked that he be her savior, He came into my heart! He has made such an impacted on what has happened in my life, I have to tell others about Him. It is very important to me to share who Jesus is, His story and what He has done for me/us; what he will do for anyone who will – confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made. Romans 10: 9-10.
I believe if the soil (heart of man) has been prepared by the Holy Spirit to receive the Word then my witness and testimony will not be unheard or become void.
It is important for me to make clear when I testify of Jesus that the listener understands who my Savior Jesus Christ is. The following is my testimony and it is the Word of God that is mighty to save. The Word of God is the Power of God! Jesus says He is the Word so I try to share as much of Jesus as possible. I love to tell the story.
A young lady believed in God and knew a Messiah was to come, so one night the Holy Spirit came upon her and she became pregnant. Mary was told by an Angel that the baby would be named Jesus. Meanwhile, her fiancé was visited by an Angel who told him to not be afraid to take Mary as his wife. They married and had a son. Both knew when he was born that he was truly the son of God and son of man. He grew up! We are told by scripture that he led a sinless life; therefore, he was pure and sinless, the only one to reconcile man with God. Jesus was accused of many things (mainly Jesus being equal with God) by the religious leaders seeking to kill him. He was beaten to the point his inside organs were visible (He gave His blood that if you will come to Him, crawl under that blood it will cover sin and heal illnesses and sicknesses) they then hung him on a cross where he openly declared, “Father forgive them for the know not what they do”. If this story is unbelievable, wait for the rest.
Jesus was laid in a borrow grave. His followers went to the grave just to find it empty. Jesus than appeared to many confirming that he was alive for 40 days! Jesus than ascended into the heavens in the presence of 500 people declaring I go to prepare a place for you and I will return to gather you so forever you will be with me.
What a story!! And we expect people to believe this! God does not expect you to do this on your own. God himself will give you “the measure to believe!’ so the faith needed to say this is astronomical and I Do believe it is provided by God himself! In addition, God says not only will I give you the faith to believe but I will put My will in you to do my will!
It is absolutely astounding how many will be willing to submit to the calling of salvation if we only will declare Jesus to them. This World is hungry for somethings; and that something is a relationship with the Savior of the World.
I believe this is my purpose; to lead others to the saving knowledge of Jesus and I believe His will for my life is to become more like the “image of Christ” If anyone feels they have no testimony, or like me that the “test” of my testimony was just life’s many curve balls and would have no impactful on others, then you can always use the testimony of Christ that is powerful to save!
Scripture references Mary, Joseph and birth of Jesus (-Luke 1:26-36, matt 1:18-25) Jesus sinless life (1 john 3:5, Hebrew 7:26, 1 Peter 2:22, 2 Corinthians 5:21) scourging and chastising (Luke 22:63, john 19:1) crucifixion (Luke 23:33, Matt. 27:27-56) jesus declared forgive them (Luke 23:-38) empty tomb (John 20:1-2, Matt. 20:1-8, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-14, Jesus appearance after resurrection (John 20:15-26, Luke 24:34-46, acts 1:1-4) Jesus ascension into the heavens (Luke 24: 5051, Acts 1:11, John 20:17, John 14:3)
WhateveritTakes
Toni Douthit
Have you ever prayed, "Here I am Lord; send me. Whatever it takes to bring my friends, family and others to you"?
Christmas day 2024 was a day such as that. What was suppose to be a quiet day trip turned out to be a "whatever it takes" day. We were on our way home from Hot Springs. It was foggy in places and the roads were damp. We were taking our time, when all the sudden the back of the car started to fishtail. I remember hearing gravel crunch, a bang and hearing my ears ringing loud. It was over that quick! We had hit a pine tree head on.
When I got my bearings and realized what had happened, I just cried out "Jesus!!! Help Me!!" Then I called for my husband. I thought the car was on fire. I couldn't move or breathe because of the smoke from the air bags deploying. I knew I was hurt but didn't realize how bad. I thought Bill was hurt worse because he was bleeding so bad.
His face was pouring blood. It seemed like forever that I was stuck in the car. People stopped and helped us. They called for help. Bill was able to get out and walk around. I could not get out.
When the ambulance got there, the EMT came to me and evaluated everything. I told him, just help me get out and I can walk. He said, I think your ribs are broken and maybe your sternum. He helped me get out and I WALKED to the gurney. Bill WALKED to the ambulance. That was the covering of God!
The next few hours were a whirlwind of the ER. Three ct scans confirmed what the EMT had said. I had 4 broken ribs, a broken sternum and muscles in my chest pulled away from the sternum. Bill had a fracture in his back and a broken nose. They released Bill and kept me overnight to make sure everything was okay. Pain was my biggest problem that night.
I was moved to a room. Bill and the kids went home. The young lady assigned to help me to the restroom came in and checked on me. She said you ' re lucky to be alive. I said no, I am blessed to be alive! I was spared for HIS purpose. She agreed and she left my room. I was ALONE! I was afraid and the whole thing was sinking in that we should have died in that accident. BUT GOD! I looked at my phone, it was 3:33 am. I started praying and praising God for who HE is out loud. I prayed, even in the pain Lord, whatever it takes! Even fighting fear Lord, I trust you, whatever it takes! Bring them all back to you! Use this to save people! Put your words in my mouth and send me Lord!
I didn't realize anyone had walked into my room. When I opened my eyes there stood the nurse with tears streaming down her face. She said, I needed to hear that prayer! I don't know how you can pray like that right now. I was able to witness to her and pray with her and encourge her.
That was what I had prayed for, whatever it takes to tell them about you Lord. He honored my prayer and is my help and healer in this whole thing. If he can raise an army out of a dry desolate valley of dry bones, HE will heal ribs, sternum and chest muscles and Bill's fractured back and all the emotional things that rise up because of the accident. He kept us in the secret place that day!
Since that day, our children have been rock stars in our recovery. We have got to witness to them by living out loud and telling of His goodness and mercy. God, pulled a family together and blended it! We truly did walk through the valley of the shadow of death. We should not have lived through that wreck according to police, EMT, and a friend who does collision repair. God has other plans for us! Here we are Lord, send us!
Overcomer
Are there any overcomers here? How do I become an overcomer? We sing a song declaring, this is how we overcome. What does overcomer even mean?
One Sunday morning, the Holy Spirit reminded me that we overcome by the word of our testimony. I heard it over and over in my spirit.
Revelation 12:11 says: And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony... (NKJV)
My favorite tool is the Strong’s Concordance. Overcame - Strong's Definition: From G3528; to subdue:conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory. The root word is G3529: conquest, means of success, VICTORY. Victory over who?
The enemy of our soul, accuser of the brethren, the devil himself.
How do we become overcomers? It starts with salvation.
Latricia Hamilton
Verse 10 says: Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. Salvation, the cross of Christ, His blood, shed for us is part of our testimony, it doesn't stop there. Our salvation AND the Word of our testimony go hand in hand for victorious, overcoming, powerful living. We overcome by the blood (salvation) AND the word (spoken or communicated) of our testimony (record of something witnessed).
Then He led me to this passage about the demoniac.
As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. But Jesus said, “No, go home to your family, and tell them everything the Lord has done for you and how merciful he has been.”
So the man started off to visit the Ten Towns of that region and began to proclaim the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed at what he told them. Mark 5:18-20 NLT
Why would Jesus tell the man He delivered, to go and tell, if it wasn't important? Surely we should share our story. How will they know His goodness, mercy, and faithfulness? How will they hear what He has done, or could do for them, if we never tell anyone? Could I encourage someone today? Do we want to be used? Are you ready to witness? Your testimony matters!
But in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have... 1 Peter 3:15 NIV
Here is your assignment. Write out your testimony or more than one. Something short you could share quickly with someone in need. If your testimony is not fresh, then you need to remember the things God has done for you. It will build your faith. If we consider all the things God has done in our lives, it builds faith, ours, and others. If you DO, then you WILL be able to witness, worship, and praise Him, in Spirit and Truth. There won't be any hesitation or pride about it. You can lift your hands and shout with joy, and share with confidence.
My pastor said once, the blood is what He did for us.
Our testimony is what we do to bring Him praise!
Think about the time he healed your mom, your child. When you could have died in your sleep because of an unknown heart condition BUT GOD revealed the problem. The teenager who was taken, BUT GOD returned her home two weeks later. The day you could have died on the interstate in that 8-vehicle pile-up, BUT GOD stopped your car and the 18-wheeler behind you. Or that divorce that you went through that didn't kill you but made you stronger. These are only a few of mine.
Have we let our witness become weak, or non-existent?
Some say you shouldn't share your past and give the devil any glory. Maybe don't give too much detail, but we just learned the enemy is defeated by confession of faith and testimony. Do we carry shame or guilt because of what happened? God desires to set us free from that. Romans 8:1 says: There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. NKJV
So write them down, read them out loud, keep fresh in your heart and mind. As the song says, When I think about the Lord, how he saved me, how He raised me. How He picked me up, turned me around. How He placed my feet on solid ground. It makes me want to shout, Hallelujah, Thank you Jesus! Someone needs to hear. You could share it online. God will place them in your path. They will say things that open the door. Maybe there’s a sick loved one or a grieving widow. Someone struggling through a divorce. An addict who needs freedom. Who might God touch through you? Pray, be ready, and share what the Lord has done in your life. Be an overcomer, get your VICTORY, by The Blood of the Lamb AND the Word of Your Testimony!
Chased by Grace
Pam Perry
Alongside the fictional memoirs of David Copperfield, Charles Dickens masterfully wove the parable of Mr. Peggotty and Little Em’ly. Mr. Peggotty, a humble fisherman, lived in a repurposed boat near the seashore, opening his home to all in need. When Little Em’ly was orphaned, he took her in, raising her with great love and devotion. She was the light of his life, but despite the warmth and security of her home, she longed for more. She dreamed of becoming a lady, of rising above the simple life she knew.
This is where the tale of Little Em’ly intertwines with my own, for in her discontent, she fell from grace.
Little Em’ly became enamored with a charming but reckless gentleman, James Steerforth. One fateful night, she abandoned her home and family, leaving only a heartbreaking letter: “It will be never to come back, unless he brings me back a lady… My last tears, and my last thanks, for uncle (Mr. Peggotty)!”
In Victorian England, a woman who lost her virtue was disgraced, shunned by all who had once loved her. Upon hearing of Em’ly’s departure, Mr. Peggotty stood frozen in shock. Then, with resolve, he declared:
“Now give me that theer hat! I’m a going to seek my niece. I’m a going to seek my Em’ly. I’m a going to seek my niece through the woreld. I’m a going to find my poor niece in her shame, and bring her back.”
Without hesitation, Mr. Peggotty abandoned his life and everything he knew, embarking on an unyielding search for his beloved niece. He followed every lead, no matter how small, traveling through France, Germany, and Italy. He never gave up.
I grew up in a small town in Arkansas, where my parents loved and adored me. At church, I learned about Jesus how He died for me, how He offers eternal life. I knew stories of Jonah, Moses, and Abraham. I could recite John 3:16 and Psalm 23. But somehow, I missed the most important message. I didn’t understand that I needed to be born again. I believed that if I was “good” and believed in Jesus, I would go to Heaven. Perhaps, I simply wasn’t listening.
By the time I became a teenager, I was terrified of death and avoided any discussion of it. Through this fear, God’s Holy Spirit began seeking me.
Little Em’ly, despite her dreams, realized too late that Steerforth had no intention of marrying her. Heartbroken and full of shame, she fled to London, living in miserable conditions, terrified someone from her past would recognize her and expose her disgrace.
For six years, my fear of death never left me. Instead of seeking answers, I distracted myself with activities, placing faith in my own resilience. Then, God began to make Himself known to me.
Jonesboro, Arkansas, Age 19 – Days before my wedding
Pastor: “Have you been saved?”
Me: “What does that mean?”
Pastor: “Do you believe in Jesus?”
Me: “Yes.”
Hickory Plains, Arkansas, Age 20 – The evangelist preached on John 10:27-30: “My Sheep Hear My Voice.” It was a sermon I have never forgotten.
Columbia, Missouri, Age 21 – My husband turned to me and said, “You know, we’re both going to hell.” I replied, “You may be, but I’m not.”
After learning that Em’ly had returned to London, Mr. Peggotty enlisted the help of Martha Endell, another fallen woman. She led him to a run-down apartment where Em’ly, broken and hopeless, had collapsed on the floor.
Columbia, Missouri, Age 21 – My husband and I were expecting our second child. We were delighted. Then came the doctor’s fateful words: “There is no heartbeat.” My greatest fear had come to pass. I could not be consoled.
Mr. Peggotty lovingly gathered Little Em’ly into his arms and carried her to his rented room. He held her through the night, just as he had when she was a child. That night, Em’ly confessed: “Uncle, uncle, the fear of not being worthy to do what my torn and bleeding breast so longed to do, was the most frightening fear of all.” Mr. Peggotty reassured her: “We knows full well, as we can put our trust in one another, evermore. ”
Columbia, Missouri, Age 21
– That same week, I sat on a church pew with my husband and daughter. The preacher called people to the altar. I didn’t understand, but suddenly, I was aware of only one thing: I was going to hell. My other fears faded. Immediately, I bowed my head and prayed, “God, please don’t let me go to hell.” I don’t remember what else I said, but when I opened my eyes, the world seemed new. I was clean. I had peace. I had been born again! My God had chased me all over Arkansas and Missouri, and praise His name, He had finally caught me. Glory to God!
Though it may seem like the happy ending to a tumultuous journey, the saga of Mr. Peggotty and Little Em’ly was not yet over. To protect her from judgment, he took her far away to Australia, where she found a new beginning. Under his loving care, she devoted herself to a life of humility and service.
On that night in 1984, God gave me a new start. He filled me with a calling and a purpose. 2 Timothy 1:9 says, “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.”
God blessed us with more children and led me to become a high school teacher. He gave me a passion for teaching His word. Recently, He has given me an additional purpose: to help women regain health so they can fulfill God’s calling. I now run a YouTube channel where I share healthy living advice through a biblical lens. You can find me at @fitnesstoservepamperry.
Like Mr. Peggotty, God pursued me relentlessly, refusing to let me go. And now, my mission is to share His love with others. God bless you!
“Youaremywitnesses,” declarestheLord,“andmy servantwhomIhavechosen, thatyoumayknowand believemeandunderstand thatIamhe.Beforemeno godwasformed,norshall therebeanyafterme.
Isaiah 43:10
