The twister turned the lives of the poor and elderly upside down. Their homes were destroyed. Their lives uprooted.
In This Issue:
Deadly Disaster... PG 2
His Way Set Me Free... PG 4
Freedom from Depression & Anxiety... PG 6
Reaching Out to the Homeless... PG 7
Freedom from Fear and Despair... PG 8
Defeating Goliath... PG 10
For Freedom Christ has Set Us Free... PG 14
Overcoming Hope Fatigue... PG 15
A Lesson from the Angels... PG 17
Dreaming of Freedom Behind Bars... PG 18
Live or Die Tryin’... PG 19
Reflections on Freedom... PG 21
Visit New Life Evangelistic Center and discover the many ways you can help those in need at:
2428 Woodson Rd in Overland, MO or 806 N. Jefferson, Springfield, MO
In the days and weeks that followed some had nervous breakdowns. Others overdosed but, many have not given up knowing that God is with them in the midst of their suffering and life shall return.
continued on page 12...
www.nlecstl.org
Deadly Disaster Leaves Path of Destruction
Within days of an EF3 tornado sweeping throughout St. Louis condemnation notices started being slapped on the doors of many of the 5,000 homes that were severely damaged by this tornado.
The bell tower and the roof of the Centennial Christian Church fell on Patricia Pendleton, known by the people in the Fountain Park neighborhood as Miss Pat. She was in the church preparing sack lunches for the homeless. Miss Pat died when the roof fell and also hit the volunteers assisting her.
New Life Evangelistic Center first responders are extending their daily outreach to carrying on Miss Pat’s work among the homeless as we try to assist the tornado victims like Wayne and his mother. Ray Redlich and his NLEC team found Wayne and his two dogs Dude and Lady.
Wayne and his mother were in their house when the tornado struck them. Wayne said the tornado stuck the back of the house and then moved to the front. He was barely able to get his mother out of the rubble. For weeks they were living in tents beside their house.
Continued on Page 3
Travel Trailers are needed for tornado victims. You will receive full tax credit for your donation to NLEC. The joy of knowing you have discreetly helped one who is in need.
Please earnestly pray for the poor and elderly people in North St. Louis. There is so much destruction following this devastating twister that swept through that community on May 16th, 2025. Homes are destroyed and hopelessness is rampant. FEMA is not the answer, as so many are now discovering.
We must pray, come Holy Spirit come, with force more powerful than the twister. Let this power be reflected in a revolution of love among the people of God. Truly greater is He (Jesus) who is in us than he (the evil one) who is in the world.
1 John 4:4
a car and needs a travel trailer.
Angelia sleeps in
Deadly Disaster Leaves Path of Destruction
... continued from page 2
Judy said it sounded like a train roaring through the neighborhood as the tornado struck her home. Her foot got caught but she got out of the house before the porch fell. Judy is now staying at the home of one of her brothers.
A condemnation notice has been placed on Judy’s house as she begins couch surfing from one relative to another. Unless intervention takes place for Judy and multitudes in similar situations, the numbers of the homeless in St. Louis will continue to skyrocket.
These are just a few of the growing numbers of individuals who have lost their homes that the New Life homeless outreach teams are working to help. In addition to assisting these individuals meet their emergency needs, the NLEC workers are building relationships with those they are assisting, as they share the love of Jesus Christ in work and deed.
The victims of the May 16th tornado are....
Sandra Davie describes what the generator NLEC provided for her family meant to them,
“This is a family home that has been damaged by the May 16th tornado. There was significant roof and exterior damage that caused the whole interior of the home to be damaged with water and mold growth. The assistance of this generator is a blessing. This will allow us to begin the process of restoration. We cannot express how grateful we are for this blessing. Thank you, Rev. Larry Rice. Thank you, Lord, for your people. They make a difference!”
The New Life Veterans Coming Home Center in Springfield,
FREE FROM ABUSE
I was in a very toxic relationship. My boyfriend abused and beat me. I stayed with him because I felt there was nowhere else to go. Finally, he kicked me out, and I was homeless.Through New Life VCHC resources, I have applied for housing. I know now it was God that ended this abusive relationship to finally free me from the pain. I may be homeless, but I am not hopeless. God is always there!
Beatrice
Missouri
In 2008 the NLEC Veterans Coming Home Center was opened, offering help and hope to the most vulnerable in Springfield MO. This essential Day Center has provided refuge to thousands of homeless individuals during the past 17 years. At 806 N. Jefferson the Center offers showers, a free store, computer access, lockers, mail services, meals, and more. On any given day, NLEC serves between 150 to 200 people. This Day Center is an anchor in the Springfield community, offering the support and care the homeless and hurting need. If you want to help serve at the Veterans Coming Home Center call (417) 866-3363.
I spent most of my life in and out of prisons. I was rebellious, a womanizer, a dope dealer. I was very selfish. Finally, I discovered I was serving time in two prisons: one man made, and the other devil made. But thanks be to God for His deliverance and grace in setting me free from all prisons! While I am presently homeless, I have everything with the Lord! He will resurrect my life and unshackle all my chains! Thank you for all the support from the New Life Evangelistic Center and their inspirational messages!
Victor
I couldn’t understand it. I had one calamity and then another, and then more. My car broke down, so I missed work and money. Then suddenly, collection notices appeared in my mailbox. I got fired. I couldn’t get rehired before I got evicted. Now I am homeless. My life just sucks! Despite all these disasters, I still believe in Jesus freeing me and restoring my broken life. Until then, I am blessed to receive this tent from the New Life Evangelistic Center, which will provide me with shelter from the rain and heat.
Rachael
I am homeless because I refused to follow the rules in my grandma’s house. She got tired of my rebellious attitudes and actions. She kicked me out. Looking back, I was wrong. Selfish. Now I am at the New Life VCHC, where I can get clean clothes, hot meals, and a safe place to take a nap. I believe God is answering my prayers and softening my selfish heart. Transforming my heart more into the likeness of His Son, Jesus. Please pray that my desires and ways will line up with His to give me His freedom, peace and hope.
Swisher
I was a miserable meth addict. I was in so much pain, but the drug caused more pain. I never got what the devil promised: peace, love, joy. A light finally went off in my head, and my heart. I did not have the strength to fight this meth/sin battle. I had to surrender to Christ to gain the victory. I have now been sober for over 6 months, and I thank the inspirational messages from the New Life Evangelistic Center and our Lord Jesus that gave me real peace, love, joy, and freedom!
Kevin
The New Life Veterans Coming Home Center is the Largest Day Center in
Springfield
I am on a fixed income and cannot find a clean, nice apartment without bed bugs or a slumlord owner. So, I am homeless because the rent is too high. But I am so grateful for the caring New Life VCHC staff. They have helped me every day providing meals, showers, free clothes, and hope.
Gary
The homeless are experiencing hope and help at
806 N Jefferson Ave. Springfield, MO 65803
I Still Have Jesus!
I became homeless when robbers stole my clothes, my I.D., and my life. But they couldn’t take away my Jesus! I continue to smile because the Lord has got me, and He makes crooked paths straight. Since I am at the center, God has given me the rewarding task of serving others. Please pray as I go on interviews that I will soon become employed. He is more than able!
Fred
Each homeless person is precious in the sight of God.
Jesus is My Savior
I am homeless due to complications in obtaining my I.D. I was forced to hire a lawyer to rectify this problem. I thank the Lord for the New Life VCHC that has provided me with a safe place to go, meals, and showers. My life has no meaning or purpose without Jesus. He is my Savior!
John
Jesus has come to set the captives free
I used to see all the homeless people coming in and out and standing around the New Life VCHC. I was very judgmental. Plus, I did nothing to help them. Then, I became one of the hundreds of homeless people in Springfield. Now I personally know and feel the struggle, the hopelessness. Thank the Lord for the New Life Evangelistic Center because it is the only daytime shelter for us. I am blessed in receiving from the New Life VCHC this sleeping bag and tent. Please don’t be like how I was by hardening your heart to the needy, the poor, and the homeless. We need help! Please ask yourself, “What would Jesus Do?” and then, do it!
Dexter
God is still with Me
I first lost my toes and then part of my leg due to frostbite. But the real reason behind my amputation was my drinking and drugs. I was so high that I fell asleep outside on one of the coldest nights in Springfield. I am now homeless. But I am also now fully sober. I am closer to God, and I appreciate His amazing grace that saved a sinner like me. I am praying for new housing and an electric power chair. God is so good!
Richard
From Slavery to Freedom
I overdosed on a combination of meth and fentanyl. The paramedics gave me Narcan eight times to bring me from death. This was my wake-up call! I ditched the drugs and began worshipping God. I am now homeless and trying to get my life back together. I need a firm foundation in the Lord to keep me from becoming again a slave to Satan. God gives me the freedom to love others and myself.
Larry
The homeless also receive inspirational books.
Who is New Life Evangelistic Center
New Life Evangelistic Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) church center composed of over 50 staff members and countless volunteers, all dedicated to providing effective support for the poor and homeless in Saint Louis, Springfield, and beyond. Founded by Rev. Larry and Penny Rice, NLEC has been headquartered in the Saint Louis area since 1972.
NLEC Mission: The mission of New Life Evangelistic Center (NLEC) is to provide Christian hospitality and respect for life through the love of Jesus Christ.
NLEC Values: New Life Evangelistic Center has founded its values on Biblical principals that are expressed especially for all who suffer from poverty, homelessness, addictions, and abuse. NLEC holds the following values in the highest regard: empathy, advocacy, empowerment, dignity, responsibility, faith, hope, and love.
Who is NLEC? You are! Through your prayers and faithful support, you are indeed a valued partner of NLEC.
Freedom from Depression and Anxiety
“To believe in God is to have a revelation about the truth” and that’s my testimony.
I began my struggle with depression and anxiety when I was nine years old. Most of my anxiety was surrounded by people, fearing rejection and judgement which led me to be a people pleaser at a very early age in life. At 14 years old I found myself smoking cannabis, and once I had turned 15, I even sometimes drank alcohol and vaped.
Looking back, I see that I was brainwashed into thinking it was normal, and this is what every teenager does and was supposed to do. I didn’t always enjoy it, but I felt pressured by those around me.
Finding God isn’t just finding Salvation, and Love and Truth, but it’s knowing your Purpose and Yourself, and Healing which I struggled with my whole life wondering why I was even here. I lived feeling like I wasn’t living.
But then, one day I was having a conversation with one of my old friends, and we were on the porch and she brought up people in churches, I think from what I remember she had said “ I wish I could be like them because, think about it, even when they’re going through something they are able to say, ‘it’s okay because I have God’ And that really had me thinking a lot about God, because while I grew up in a Christian household no one ever taught me how to have a personal relationship with God. It seemed that God was being used more like a Santa so that I would stay out of trouble.
continued on page 23...
Reaching Out to the Homeless
Lisa Grady is a homeless woman who was in her tent when the tornado struck. A tree limb was thrown into her tent and she spent four days in the hospital. Now that she has recovered NLEC is helping her with food, water, bus passes, personal hygiene items, another tent, and other essentials.
Robert is a homeless man who loves Jesus and uses his talents to make wooden crosses, even though he lives in an abandoned building. He donated these two handmade crosses to our New Life Evangelistic Center outreach team as a token of his appreciation.
Our New Life Evangelistic Center outreach team provided much-needed help for Art, a homeless man who is living outside. Tents and sleeping bags are always needed, to help those who cannot get into overcrowded shelters.
Cynthia was in a vacant building as the tornado hit the structure. She gives God the glory for telling her to vacate the building right before it collapsed.
You can let the love of Christ flow through you into the lives of the homeless and hurting by joining New Life outreach teams. Call (314) 421-3020 or go to www.nlecstl. org for further information. Jesus said in Matthew 25, “As often as you have done it to the least of these you have done it unto me.” You will be showing your love for Christ by feeding the homeless and giving them direct help.
FREEDOM FROM FEAR AND DESPAIR:
The Life-Saving Ministry of NLEC’s Safe House Program
“Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” —Psalm 62:1–2
In the early hours of the morning, when most homes are quiet with sleep, some women are awake—shivering in a car, clutching their child on a bus bench, or hiding in a stairwell. They are not criminals. They are not invisible. They are simply without a place to call home. And they are afraid.
Fear is the constant companion of homelessness. It steals rest. It silences hope. And for women and children, it’s often coupled with despair so deep it threatens to consume every shred of dignity. Some are fleeing domestic violence. Some are battling addiction or the shame of past mistakes. Others have simply run out of options.
At New Life Evangelistic Center (NLEC), we see these precious souls not as statistics—but as beloved daughters of God. Through our Safe House Program, we offer more than shelter. We offer safety. We offer community. We offer the Word of God and the peace that only Jesus can bring.
A Safe House of Refuge—And a House of Restoration
One of the most exciting developments in this ministry is the remodeling of a large 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom Safe House that will soon open its doors to serve women and children in crisis. This home represents far more than bricks and mortar—it is a living picture of God’s provision.
Set in a peaceful neighborhood and designed with care, this house is being completely renovated to serve as a warm, stable, and Christ-centered refuge. Once completed, it will become one of the largest Safe Houses in our network, significantly expanding our ability to welcome more women—especially those with children.
In contrast to overcrowded, impersonal shelters or unsafe temporary housing, this home will provide private rooms for rest, multiple bathrooms to ease the burden of shared living, and communal spaces for prayer, meals, and fellowship. Each design choice has been made with healing and dignity in mind. The additional bedrooms will allow entire families—mothers and children together—to remain under one roof without being separated.
This home is not simply a shelter. It is a place where women will begin to rebuild their lives on the firm foundation of God’s Word. Here, fear gives way to faith. Despair gives way to discipleship. And brokenness is met by the boundless grace of Christ.
Daily Life in the Safe House Program
Every woman who enters a Safe House is offered two pathways: a short-term emergency stay (up to two weeks), or enrollment in our one-year residential discipleship program. This longer track is a deeply transformative journey that includes:
• Daily devotions and Bible study, rooting each woman in the truth of Scripture and the character of God.
• Biblical counseling, where trauma, addiction, and brokenness are addressed through the lens of the Gospel.
• Job training and life skills, preparing women for sustainable independence in housing and employment.
• Community living, where healthy habits, accountability, and mutual encouragement become the norm.
The remodeled 5-bedroom house will be fully equipped to offer all of these components and more. With a full kitchen, family dining area, and spaces for study, reflection, and worship, it will become both a physical and spiritual haven. It is our hope that this house will be a place where Psalm 62:1–2 is not only read, but lived: “Truly my soul finds rest in God… He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”
A New Chapter for Mothers and Children
One of the most heartbreaking realities of homelessness is the trauma it inflicts on children. When mothers are forced to sleep in dangerous places, children suffer—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. But thanks to this newly renovated Safe House, many of these mothers will have a different story to tell.
continued on page 9...
Imagine a mother, newly arrived from a domestic violence situation, able to tuck her children into a warm bed at night— without fear. Imagine her attending a Bible study in the morning while her kids play in the safety of the home’s backyard. Imagine her learning budgeting, cooking, and interview skills, all while growing in her understanding of God’s grace. That is the vision of this house.
This home will not only serve more women than most of our other locations—it will serve them better. It is a home designed to restore not just bodies, but souls. A home where meals are shared, prayers are lifted, and peace is learned. A home where the cycles of homelessness, abuse, and addiction are broken—not by human effort alone, but by the power of the risen Christ.
A Ministry Sustained by Faithful Friends
The expansion of the Safe House Program through this new home would not be possible without the steadfast generosity of our donors and ministry partners. Each hammer swung, each nail driven, each room furnished has been made possible by those who have responded to Christ’s call to care for “the least of these.”
Through your gifts, prayers, and volunteering, you have extended God’s mercy to women who had no place to go. You have helped build something far greater than a building—you’ve helped build hope. But the need continues to grow. As the number of women and children facing homelessness rises, we must rise with it— extending our reach, opening our hearts, and expanding our homes.
We invite you to partner with us as we complete this beautiful new house of refuge.
How You Can Help
• Give generously to support ongoing renovations and future operational needs for the 5-bedroom Safe House.
• Volunteer your time or practical skills—help with setup, landscaping, transportation, or teaching.
• Pray continually for the women who will soon walk through this home’s front door—that they would find not just shelter, but the love of Christ.
• Share this story with others. The more people who know, the more we can do.
To support this project or learn more, visit www.nlecstl.org or call us at (314) 421-3020
Hope Has an Address
This house will soon be filled with stories. Stories of redemption. Of second chances. Of children laughing again. Of mothers rediscovering their identity as daughters of the King. And when those stories are told, it will be clear: hope lives here
It lives in every room prepared in love. It lives in every Bible opened in quiet prayer. And it lives in the hearts of every woman who, by God’s grace, walks from fear to freedom within these walls.
With your help—and through the mercy of our faithful God—this 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom house will be more than a shelter. It will be a sanctuary. A lighthouse. A home.
Together, let’s keep proclaiming:
“Truly my soul finds rest in God… He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”
Some of the women and children moving into the new safe house
The new 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom safe house
I am by nature an optimist, but after seeing the tornado’s destruction and its impact on it’s victims I must confess I was beginning to experience what psychotherapist Lesley Alderman calls “hope fatigue.” She developed this term to describe people like me who after a period of time start struggling with a “deficit of optimism.”
Maybe at this time you are also experiencing hope fatigue. In spite of the circumstances, you have tried to have hope.
In 1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV) I found a formula to deal with hope fatigue when Paul said, “We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The formula given here to overcome hope fatigue involves three steps that must be implemented through prayer.
1. “Your work produced by faith.” Unless my work and hope is produced by faith it will ultimately result in hope fatigue. I must never forget how much God loves
me. With this in mind, I must pray asking our Risen Lord to show me what things I must do to pursue the goal set before me. As I do this, I must believe God is leading me and remain faithful in letting His love flow through me. Even if He closes one door I must believe He will open another.
2. “Your labor prompted by love.” God so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16). Now I must have a hope that is “sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39 ESV). As my work is prompted by the knowledge of God’s love for me I can have hope in spite of the circumstances. Even if things don’t work out the way I have planned, I can “know that for those who love God all things to work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
3. “Your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” If I am feeling hope fatigue, I must reexamine what is the basis for my hope. If it is my own efforts, no wonder I would be getting tired out, burned out or worn out. My endurance must be the result of my hope in my Lord Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth and the life. Daily, I need to ask the Holy Spirit to show me how Christ “is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power at works within us” (Ephesians 3:20).
Because Christ is risen, we have hope according to His power that works in us. This power is demonstrated through every seed that is planted and then resurrected into the wonderful plant with the purpose planned at the time of its creation. The Creator of all commands through His creation and the power of His word, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). The fact that God upholds us with His righteous right hand tells us we do not need to accept hope fatigue. Present circumstances cannot suffocate our hope for a future. The resurrected Christ has provided for us a hope for the future both now and for all eternity.
The challenge that now exists for each of us is to overcome hope fatigue by knowing that we have a future filled with hope. Living in this hope, based upon the promises of God’s word, involves a radical stance toward life where we surrender to Jesus Christ who is the personification of God’s will for our lives.
By Larry Rice
Providing Freedom in New Bloomfield, MO
New Life Evangelistic Center provides the men who are homeless opportunities to receive shelter and training in New Bloomfield, Missouri. In New Bloomfield the men start each day with Bible reading and prayer to help them get on the right path with God. Then the men learn how to work together in many areas.
New Bloomfield is also the location for the Here’s Help Radio Network. The radio station broadcasting into New Bloomfield, feeds KNLH in Cedar Hill, MO, and KNLN in Vienna, MO, as well as KNLP in Potosi, MO, and KMRF in Marshfield, MO. At the New Bloomfield training center, the homeless men have the opportunity to make a new start in life. As II Corinthians 5:17 says, “If any man be in Christ, they are a new creation, the old has passed away, and the new has come.” The Residential Leadership Training program prepares the homeless to develop skills to get and keep a job. Then, they will be able to help others who are down and out. In addition to morning devotionals, the Residential Leadership Training members have Bible Study every Sunday Morning and again every Wednesday at Noon where they learn how to let God guide them in every aspect of their lives.
One area is with New Life Charolais Farms, where the men learn responsibility to feed and water the cattle. In addition to Charolais Farms, there is Missouri Renewable Energy which includes projects such as the Dome Home, Solar Energy, Wind Energy, and Earth Home.
I thought that was the end
“If anyone be in Christ they are a new creation, the old has passed away the new has come.”
II Corinthians 5:17
When I was in ninth grade, I began to sell drugs and break into people’s houses. I found out quick that wasn’t the way to go. I went to jail on a drug conviction and received a five year sentence. I thought that was the end, but I was wrong. I got out and started doing it again, bad mistake. I was caught again, 2-time loser. So I went off to prison. I never went back, I’ve been clean for 40 years now! I thank God that He saved my life. I came home and started working at Pensky. I had been there for 17 years and had to take care of my kids, so I bought a home to raise my kids and I did that. When they left home, I divorced. I sold my house to move into an apartment, got an eviction and had to go back to my wife. But that didn’t work out. I ran into a hard time finding a place, so God stepped in again and sent me to the New Life Mid-American Care Center in New Bloomfield to regroup and get me back on track. Praise be to God! Marlowe
I first became homeless because my Father’s landlord kicked us out on the street on December 2, 2024. Me and my father lived at the Salvation Army Harbor House for 2-weeks together. My Dad had a heart attack and had to have a heart defibrillator installed in his heart.
I became closer to God and Jesus because of my Dad having a heart attack, It scared me. I have been trying to get closer to God and Jesus for years. I read the Bible, have one of my own. I spent months on the street, going to the Veterans Coming Hom Center for meals, clothes, showers and friendship. Pastor Mark, William, Mike and other people. My favorite songs are Amazing Grace, and I know that My Redeemer Lives”. I signed up for NLEC, so it helped me become closer to God and Jesus. I thank Pastor Mark, God, Jesus, NLEC & the VCHC for giving me a second chance in life. I Hope I can be delighted with an unfailing love from Jesus and God. Amen Matthew
Delivering Hope that is Transforming Lives
The Spirit of God is moving mightily amid destruction, broken homes, and shattered lives. He is stirring the hearts of His people. Across North St. Louis - an area ravaged by the devastating tornado of May 16th - men and women of faith are rising up. They are overcoming fear and stepping boldly into the storm’s aftermath, bringing a hope that only Christ can provide.
Armed with Buckets of Blessings - filled with MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat), flashlights, cleaning supplies, and more - the people of God are delivering tarps, bus tickets, tents, sleeping bags, food, and water, etc. But more importantly, they are delivering the love of God, bringing comfort and compassion in both word and deed. They come not only with supplies - but with the message of the Risen Christ, whose hope never fails.
This hope is transforming lives. Though the future may seem dark, the hopeless are beginning to glimpse the eternal light of Christ breaking through.
Before the tornado, many were too afraid to enter North St. Louis - fearful of the violence and poverty. But now, through the power of the Holy Spirit, that fear is being cast out by perfect love. Believers who once avoided the area are now walking boldly into it - hands and hearts open - allowing the light of Christ to shine through them.
This army of God is reaching out - lifting those left devastated and helping them stand again, rebuild, and rediscover life.
You can be part of this powerful movement of the Holy Spirit through prayer, volunteering, and giving.
Standing amid the tornado’s ruins, we’re reminded of the prophet Ezekiel in the valley of dry bones. “This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life” (Ezekiel 37:5). That same breath - the Spirit of God - is bringing new life to North St. Louis. Churches, ministries, and believers are joining together in unity, proclaiming the love of Jesus Christ in both action and truth.
But we cannot do it without YOU!
Through your prayers and generous support, New Life Evangelistic Center can continue to bring vital supplies, shelter, and the love of Christ to the poor, the hurting, and the homeless.
Your gift to NLEC makes it possible to purchase urrgently needed supplies:
• Gas for those living in their cars
• Meals Ready to Eat (MRE’s)
• Tents, tarps, and sleeping bags
• Personal Hygiene Kits (razors, toothbrushes, wash clothes, etc.)
• Sandwich supplies and hygiene items
• Emergency shelter through the NLEC Safe Houses
• Bibles
• Camping trailers
• Flashlights
• Cleaning Supplies
• Water
• Bus tickets
• Generators
• Furniture
Yet in both of these events, the circumstances were radically changed because those trapped, set off a weapon more powerful than an atomic bomb. More awesome than miliatry might. It happened this way on the English Channel... in the Battle of Dunkirk;
King George III called for a day of intercessory prayer throughout the British Empire. As millions gathered to pray, God answered immediately. Suddenly a violent storm broke out on the side of the Channel where the Germans had the Allied forces trapped. The German tanks became bogged down in the mud and the planes could not take off. On the English side the weather was perfect. Realizing that God had done a miracle, the English people sent out thousands of small boats across the Channel to rescue those who were trapped. A dense fog blanketed the waters on the French and German wide. Withtin hours 330,000 trapped Allied soldiers had been rescued.
King Sennacherib’s Assyrian army surrounded Jerusalem, mocking King Hezekiah and the God he served. Hezekiah knew he was out-numbered, but he tapped a greater power than that of military force - - the power of prayer (see Isaiah 37:15-20). The end result was that very night the Lord of Heaven and Earth, Life and Death, destroyed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers.
What a tragedy that those who say they believe in the power of prayer continue to call for the support of political leaders who advocate a continual build-up of military weapons. That power in the end can only destroy us. This is the power that will save us - - the power of prayer. “... call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” (Psalm 50:15)
The power of prayer works. If you feel trapped, know that God will deliver you if you call out to Him in prayer. And as you pray, remember to include New Life Evangelistic Center and the tornado victims in your daily prayers. We would like to send all daily prayer warriors a free copy of the book entitled: “Power of Prayer”. Just write to NLEC at PO BOX 473, Saint Louis, MO 63166 and request this powerful book. Please remember NLEC and the tornado victims in your prayers for 15 minutes a day. We know there is power in prayer!
Thousands of homes have been destroyed and lives devastated as a mile wide EF3 tornado roared through their neighborhood. For over fifty-three years New Life Evangelistic Center has had the priviledge to minster to the many of those who now have lost everything.
Please pray that the Holy Spirit will show us how to serve each one in need and will provide the resources to do such.
One hundred and two year old Bessie Moore needs the window replaced in her home and her roof repaired. Judy and Melvin are in dark hot homes needing generators. These are just a few of the growing numbers of newly homeless men, women, and children who need the love of Christ flowing through each of us. Please get involved now in the work of New Life Evangelistic Center as a prayer partner, a financial supporter, or a volunteer.
For further information call (314) 421-3020 or visit www.nlecstl.org.
You can send your much needed gift to:
New Life Evangelistic Center PO BOX 473 St. Louis, MO 63166
Melvin
... continued from back cover
The Day the Earth Stood Still
Defeating Today’s Goliaths
One day, for no apparent reason, Randall “The Tank” Spears, our school’s bully, decided it was time to have “punching-bag” practice with our bodies. Stalking us during recess, The Tank and his “army” cornered Ronnie and I.
“I am going to tear you little punk’s heads off!” yelled “The Tank” as the circle around us got tighter and tighter.
The blood in my veins turned to ice. I closed my eyes and held my breath—and silently prayed for mercy from God, begging for a quick and painless death.
Then, I heard Ronnie yell back to “The Tank”, you are not going to do anything to me or my friend you –big fat hippo!”
It seemed the whole world just paused. The birds stopped chirping. Traffic on the streets came to a halt. The wind died. Little midget, bad breath, and geeky Ronnie “The Stick” Stickmeyer had just roared.
“The Stick” becomes “The Stone”
Astonished, “The Tank”, now only ten feet away from us—came to a halt. “What did you call me? You no good piece of crap. How dare you even speak to me—you’re a nobody! A nothing!! A big fat zero---“
Yet, before “The Tank” could say another word, I saw a miracle. Ronnie ran towards “The Tank” and picked up a nice size piece of rock from the ground. And with ferocious fury, Ronnie fired. The rock sliced through the air like a bullet and hit “The Tank” right in the stomach with an unbelievable force knocking him solidly to the ground. The Tank, rubbing his sore and fat stomach, rolled around in the dust dirt of the playground, balling his eyes out in pain.
It was on this day that Ronnie “The Stick” Stickmeyer became Ronnie “The Stone” Stickmeyer. It was on this day that Ronnie, my friend, whom everyone else thought was a “nobody” became a “somebody”.
A Little Runt Becomes King
Recently, God through the power of his Holy Spirit, enhanced my memories of Ronnie “The Stone” Stickmeyer when he had me read again the story of a young shepherd boy named David. David like my friend Ronnie was viewed by his friends and family members as a “nobody”. In fact, when the prophet Samuel came to anoint a son from the House of Jesse as King, no one even bothered to call David in from his work, even considered that the “little runt”, the youngest of eight brothers, who still retained baby fat cheeks could be crowned King. David was viewed as a nobody, a nothing, a complete zero.
But the Lord ordered Samuel to not be fooled by the physical appearances and to anoint David as King, saying: “ For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
God had taken the “useless” shepherd boy and made him useful for his purpose. God had once again changed a “nobody” into a “somebody”
Just Who Do You Think You Are?
However, when God changes a “nobody” into a “somebody”, He imparts unto that person a great vision. He gives that person a mission in their lives that goes beyond their most vivid imagination. So it was with David, for God told the young boy that he could defeat a monster called Goliath.
And no sooner had God planted the seeds of victory into the fertile ground of David’s heart, when enemies came to violently rip it up.
First came Eliab, his very own brother, who angrily said to David: Why did you come here? With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your presumption and evilness of heart; for you came down that you might see the battle.” (1 Samuel 17:28). David’s next reproof came from the King himself. “You are only a young boy.” Said King Saul, “Surely you cannot fight Goliath who is a seasoned man of war.” (1 Samuel 17:33)
And David’s final rebuke came from Goliath himself who said: “Am I a Dog that you should come to me with sticks…Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and beast of the field.” (1 Samuel 17:44)
In other words, what Eliab, King Saul and Goliath were all saying was this: “Just who do you really think you are? Well, let us remind you. You are a little runt, inexperienced in battle, and a worthless little shepherd boy. You are a nobody. And whoever put the crazy idea that you, a nothing could beat Goliath must also be a lunatic!” continued on page 16...
...continued from page 15
Surely You can’t go Fight Goliath
Defeating Today’s Goliaths
David’s next reproof came from the King himself. “You are only a young boy.” Said King Saul, “Surely you cannot fight Goliath who is a seasoned man of war.” (1 Samuel 17:33) And David’s final rebuke came from Goliath himself who said: “Am I a Dog that you should come to me with sticks…Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and beast of the field.” (1 Samuel 17:44) In other words, what Eliab, King Saul and Goliath were all saying was “Just who do you really think you are? Well, let us remind you. You are a little runt, inexperienced in battle, and a worthless little shepherd boy. You are a nobody. And whoever put the crazy idea that you, a nothing could beat Goliath must also be a lunatic!”
Let’s Get Ready to Rrrrumble!!
But David remembered how God was there to help him defeating the lion and bear, and his heart never wavered in trusting the Lord. The Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the same God Almighty who had parted the Red Sea—Had “co-signed” and endorsed David’s mission and life.
Goliath, awesome and towering, dwarfed little David in his shadow as they stood on the battlefield. Not only did Goliath cursed David, calling him names and threatening him with a horrible and bloody death—he also cursed David’s God.
Imagine, Goliath, soldier and murderer, great warrior—with a heavy sword in one hand and javelin and spear in the other standing toe to toe with a little boy who was only holding a child’s toy called a slingshot. The giant and the other Philistines probably thought this new “secret” weapon of the Israelites was to kill them with laughter as they looked down upon poor David.
But David was not afraid. He knows his identity was through God himself, and that every one of his weaknesses and shortcomings were supported and covered by the Great “I am who I am.”
Boldly, David shouted to Goliath: You come against me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord of Hosts, the God of the ranks of Israel, whom you have defied…This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand and I will smite you and cut off your head..”
No longer laughing, Goliath, hot with rage, runs to meet David and to his absolute amazement—David runs to meet him.
It is rumble time and the fight is on. But the match only lasts a few seconds, as the youngest boy of the House of Jesse scores a total knock out against Goliath with only a sling shot and a rock.
Everybody is in awe. Everybody's mouth forms a donut sized “O”. Everybody witnesses a “nobody” who through the power of God becomes a “somebody”.
Defeating Today’s Goliaths
We, who are chosen by God (Isaiah 43:1-2), are not “nobodies” and it is through our weaknesses and shortcomings that God is made strong (2 Corinthians 12:9).
As we face the Goliaths in our lives, we should remember the following points:
1. Do not believe the naysayers. Do not believe in the reports which state you cannot possibly accomplish the vision God has planted in your hearts. Remember the vision is the Lord’s and His Word cannot be defeated or return void (Isaiah 55:11).
2. You are God’s Workmanship. You are not a “nobody—you are a son or daughter of the King and your identity comes directly for God (Ephesians 1:5, John 1:12). Claim your inheritance and your new identity—you are chosen and appointed by The Lord Jesus (John 15:16).
3. Remain confident and unmovable. We must not wander or wonder in the mission he has assigned us. We must stand strong and firm---remembering that God has prepared us to accomplish this “impossible” vision (Hebrews 13:21, Philippians 1:6). Remember the real miracle is what he has done in our hearts. Remain confident—God will perfect the work he has begun in and through you (Philippians 1:6).
4. Do not fight naked! We must engage the enemy in full battle armor (Ephesian 6:12-18), wielding the mighty sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God (Hebrews 4:12). Then we can face any obstacle or problem head-on, relying upon God for He is more than able to give us the victory (2 Corinthians 9:8, 1 Samuel 17:47, 2 Timothy 1:7).
In closing, I can hear Ronnie “The Stone” Stickmeyer and David the little shepherd boy, both “nobodies”, both my friends and heroes, saying to the Goliaths of yesterday, today and tomorrow:
This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand and all the assembly shall know that the lord saves not with sword and spear: for the battle is the lords and he will give you into my hands.”
by Mark Glenn
Again, and again angels appear in Scripture in times of crisis, in times of hopelessness and in times when God wanted to reassure someone of His love. In each of these situations, the angelic beings sent from God carried out specific task:
Strengthening Angels- In times of crisis they provided extra strength, i.e. when Ishmael was about to die in the wilderness of Beersheba, an angel showed his mother to water and enabled them to survive & prosper (Gen. 21:14-20); When Jesus was agonizing in the Garden of Gethsemane, an angel came and strengthened him (Luke 22:43).
Angels of Encouragement- When Hagar, Sarai’s maid, ran away into the wilderness, an angel encouraged her to return & promised that from her son would come a great nation (Gen. 21:14-20). The angel Gabriel encouraged the Virgin Mary to believe God’s promise that she would bear the Son of God. (Luke 1:26-38).
Comforting Angels- An Angel came to Elijah when he wanted to die under the juniper tree and comforted him (1 Kings 19:5) the angels told the women who came to Jesus’ tomb that he had risen from the dead and would meet them in Galilee (Matt. 28:1-7) Paul was told by an angel not to be afraid, that he would not die on the storm tossed ship (Acts 27:24).
I believe these particular tasks of the angels (there are many others) give us a profound glimpse into the relationship that God desires to have with His children and that He desires us to have with one another:
“Finally, brethren, farewell (rejoice)! Be strengthened (perfected, completed, made what you ought to be); be encouraged and consoled and comforted; be of the same [agreeable] mind one with another; live in peace and then the God of love [Who is Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author and Promoter of peace will be with you.” 1 Corin. 13:11
It seems that being strengthened, encouraged, and comforted are what God delights in bestowing upon or troubled, discouraged, and frightened hearts!
“Now may the God who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may (unanimously with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). Welcome and receive [to your hearts] one another, then, even as Christ has welcomed and received you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:5-7
As we respond to the strength, encouragement and comfort that God provides, an amazing thing happens – we begin to reflect to others what we have experienced! That is when the miracle of unity in the Body of Christ is able to function:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement), Who comforts (consoles and encourages) us in every trouble (calamity and affliction), so that we may also be able to comfort (console and encourage) those who are in any kind of trouble or distress, with the comfort (consolation and encouragement) with which we ourselves are comforted (consoled and encouraged by God.”
1 Corinthians 1:3,4
“That is, that we may be mutually strengthened and encouraged and comforted by each other’s faith, both yours and mind.” Romans 1:12
We can be more than just recipients of the strongest, most encouraging and greatly comforting message of all from the angels at Christ’s tomb: “He is risen!” We can willingly surrender our lives to the Risen Lord and proclaim His message of hope to hurting world around us! We, too, can be his vessels to strengthen, encourage and comfort one another…just like the angels!
By Penny Rice
Dreaming of Freedom Behind Bars
I have been incarcerated almost three decades for attempted capital murder on a police officer. Case No: 97-425172. A crime that I did not commit. Some college students are investigating this case...
Larry D. Weaver #825515
Montford Unit, 8602 Lubbock, Texas 79404
For more of Larry Weaver’s story go to www.nlecstl.org
PEN PAL LIST
The following individuals have requested a Pen Pal - If you would like to reach out to them you can write to them at the address listed with their names.
Please send me some Bible study lessons and a devotional book. I want to live and work for Jesus and His glory and stay free and clean forever. Amen. I love Jesus.
My mom shot and killed herself in 1972 when I was 12 years old. Since then, six more people in my family have committed suicide. I tried to kill myself, but Jesus saved my life!
More people in my family killed themselves also. My past life being a crook, an alcoholic, and even a bank robber has been sad and bad. But praise God, Jesus, and the Holy Ghost for love, mercy, and grace. Amen. Praise Jesus. He paid it all on the cross for us to have salvation and eternal life. Amen. The love of the money and trying to be cool I was just a fool. I wanted to have good times and party and was always in bars, pool rooms and clubs.
George David Lane #0232249
Neuse Correctional Center Goldsboro, NC
Larry Weaver #825515
Montford Unit
8602 Peach Avenue
Lubbock, TX 79404
Goerge David Lane #0232249 PO Box 2087
Goldsboro, NC 27533-2087
Jimmy Stephens #02443195 PO Box 660400
Dallas, TX 75266-0400
Terry Watson #1225189
C/O Digital Mail Center-MO DOC PO Box 25678
Tampa, FL 33622-5678
Freedom isn’t just about walking out of a cell. It’s not just about being able to come and go. Real freedom starts in your mind, your spirit, and your will to keep going—no matter what’s trying to hold you back.
Live or Die Tryin’ was born from that fight. My fight. And let me keep it all the way real with you—I didn’t have a smooth path. I was locked up at 14 years old. A child. I came into the system not even knowing how to read or write. I was dyslexic. School had failed me, and the streets had swallowed me up.
But I made a decision. I wasn’t going to die in that place. I taught myself how to read and write while I was incarcerated. I studied. I learned. I changed. By the time I walked out at 24, I wasn’t the same kid they locked up. I had found a new kind of freedom—a freedom of the mind.
That’s the part I want you to hear. Because I know some of y’all feel like it’s too late, or like nobody sees you. But I see you—because I was you.
Live. Or die tryin’.
By Yahkhahnahn Ammi, Author of Live or Die Tryin’
To read the rest from Yahkhahnahn Ammi also known as Dr. Perrie Daniell Gibson please visit www.newlifeevangelisticcenter.org/stories/categories/cry-justice-now
For Freedom Christ has Set Us Free
The crowds in the stands roared as rock music blared at an ungodly, and deafening level. Bright strobe lights criss-crossed around the auditorium, as the announcer’s voice boomed over the loud music and applause. “In our right corner, we have a first time contestant. He’s untrained, unprepared, and will most likely be…..pulverized!” He intentionally emphasized the last word, causing the crowds to call out for my blood. “On our left corner, we have the reigning champion. He’s a lean, mean, fighting machine. He carries a nasty right hook that has leveled all of his opponents. Let’s hear it for “The Inner Killer.” The crowds went wild! Jumping up and down, the whole auditorium seemed to shake from the noise and excitement.
As I resolutely approached the ring, my boxing gloves felt heavy in my hand. I climbed into my corner, looking for my support team, but seeing nobody around. My opponent did look like a killing machine. His muscles bulged in menacing ways. He had a large hood completely covering his face, which added to the fear swelling up in my gut. I stepped forward, feeling very unready for what was about to go down. The bell rang loudly, and as my opponent stepped forward, his hood fell to his shoulders. Standing there, ready to pulverize me, was myself.
This made up story is exactly what my life felt like for many years. As I grew up, I got quite skilled at beating myself up in my mind. I would symbolically get into the ring of my mind and beat myself up over and over again. I would imagine horrible lies about myself, and cling to them as though they were true. I would wallow in pity for myself, and walk around complaining over just about anything. I wanted real connection with others around me, but the internal beatings I would give myself became like self-fulfilling prophecies. I drained myself with internal, mental battles in my imaginary ring, and consequently I drained others with my mopping and complaining.
continued on page 22...
Alfredo Valdez
A Second Chance After the Deadly Twister
When the tornado tore through the neighborhood, Ebony had only moments to grab her three-year-old son, little Jimmy before the roof above them began to give way. She and her fiancé, Jimmy, had been renting a small home—modest but stable— until the storm left it splintered and unsafe. Now, with their belongings destroyed and nowhere to return to, they’ve been sleeping in their car, trying to shield their little boy from fear, hunger, and the uncertainty that looms over every day. Ebony clutches a folder with paperwork, rental agreements, and shelter waitlists—evidence of her effort—but doors keep closing, and hope is wearing thin.
This is not just a crisis of housing; it’s a crisis of dignity, safety, of stability. Families like Ebony’s are not looking for luxury—only for a roof, a door that locks, and a warm place where their child can sleep in peace. The New Life Evangelistic Center is stepping into this gap with transportation assistance to help this family resettle with their friends in Kentucky—but we can’t do it alone. With each gift, you help turn heartbreak into healing and give a family like Ebony’s the most precious gift of all: the chance to start again.
WANTED!
People Who Care
Every Day, New Life Evangelistic Center has daily Street Patrols where the NLEC First Responders go out into the streets to do Outreach. This involves the provision of food, shelter and direct assistance to the hundreds of poor and homeless people throughout Mid-America who come to NLEC for help. There are presently many ways that you can get directly involved.
• Circulate the New Life Zoa Free Paper 2.0 at your church and place of employment.
• Gather food, blankets, T-shirts, underwear, shoes, and water for the poor and homeless and bring them to NLEC at 806 N. Jefferson Ave. in Springfield or 2428 Woodson Rd. in Overland
• You can also help with street outreach, taking emergency supplies to the homeless living outside.
• New Life Evangelistic Center receives no United Way funding nor any government funding. That is why your financial gifts to New Life Evangelistic Center are very important. Please encourage your church, place of employment, friends, relatives, and neighbors to also give to the work of New Life Evangelistic Center.
• Please pray. Your prayers will make a big difference. Remember in special prayer the full time staff of NLEC, along with NLEC’S financial needs and the many who come to NLEC daily for prayer.
• Make sandwiches once a week for the homeless and hungry or prepare personal hygiene care, gather tents, water and other items the homeless need and bring them to 2428 Woodson Rd in Overland or to 806 N Jefferson Ave in Springfield, MO.
(314) 421-3020
“Where there is charity and wisdom there is neither fear nor ignorance” ---St Francis of Assissi
Reflections on Freedom
I had opportunity recently to go and stand at the Border wall between El Paso Texas and Juarez Mexico. As I stood there overshadowed in the immensity of this behemoth above me it made me think of freedom. Where is freedom found in this country and on the other side? If you have the means you can make a go of it, but if you are poor it does not feel free, not in the least. This giant wall highlights who is out and who is in. It says “If you don’t have the right papers, you are out, we don’t want you.” And even for those citizens who fall on hard times, where can the homeless lay their heads where they are not trespassing? I have a friend with a traumatic brain injury who was recently picked up on a two year old warrant for trespassing when he was homeless. He had forgotten about it. But he was just carted off to jail and moved from one county to another. There he sat in jail until he faced a trial on a video prompter where he pled guilty and was summarily fined $100, which he didn’t have, and was released on unsupervised probation. After wandering around all night trying to figure out what to do, he came back to the Veterans Coming Home Center and to our program.
As I contemplate freedom in the shadow of this wall I think of James 1:25, “But the one who peers into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres and is not a hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, such a one shall be blessed in what he does.” I long for the day when our nation’s laws will mirror God’s laws, but until that time I will pray for a nation where it is easier to do good. Where those incarcerated will be judged fairly. Where our justice system will not use the homeless and poor to make money. And a time when NIMBY Not-In-My-Backyard won’t target those who try and help the poor.
After I took this time to feel the wall and peer through it, a group of us Secular Franciscans gathered around and were led in prayer by Father Iggy, a Franciscan priest. “O Let your Spirit come upon us. Let us here remember all of our brothers and sisters who have gone before us to you and all of their friends and relatives who have come forth and are here and now need our help. Give us strength and courage to stand on our constitution, for real healthy law and order and for care for all of our brothers and sisters including all of creation. We ask you all this Lord through Christ our Lord. AMEN.”
by Chris L Rice, OFS
For Freedom Christ has Set Us Free
...continued from page 14
The lies I told myself, the imaginary battles I kept losing in my mind, the constant dark rain cloud looming over my head, all these felt like heavy chains on my hands and feet. I felt like there was no escape for many years. I would go through short seasons of daylight, when I found it easy to think everything was ok, but then loneliness, depression, and grumbling would swell up again. I was my own worst enemy. I was enslaved to my own low opinion of myself. My life was changed only when Jesus Christ set me free. Let me share with you the freedom I found in Jesus.
Every single person is born enslaved to sin. Your sin may look different than mine. Maybe you never struggled with what the Bible calls the fear of man, but that was one of my chief sins. Jesus set me free from the bottomless pit of my despair by causing my heart to repent and believe in faith that Jesus is my Savior. I can’t pinpoint the exact moment Jesus saved me, but I experienced my chains being broken in my life. I can say without a shadow of doubt, that there was nothing in myself that freely chose Jesus as my Savior. I was dead in my sin, and it took the resurrection power of Jesus to give me new life in Him.
Galatians 5:1 says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” If you are set free by the powerful blood of Jesus, why would you live as though you are still chained to sin. The yoke of slavery Paul is talking about is the external obedience to the Mosaic Law. Some of the new Greek Christians were told that they had to have faith in Jesus Christ, and perfect obedience to the laws of Moses. This is just a facade for a works based religion. But Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Both the grace and the faith mentioned in these verses are a gift that God sovereignly gives to whomever He pleases. Your life reveals whether you are free by grace and faith, or whether you are enslaved to your works.
The freedom that Jesus offers in His blood is not based on circumstances, lineage, or wealth. It is simply based on faith in His perfect life, sufficient death, and glorious resurrection. By grace through faith, Jesus set me free from the fear of man. I no longer have to pander to other people’s opinions, or my own low opinion of myself. I trust what the Word of God says of me, because my Savior is real and has set me free. I want you to experience this freedom too. First, you must confess that you can’t save yourself. You can’t set yourself free from the chains of sin that bind you. Jesus is the only sufficient Savior to break those chains. Next, you need to change your mind by reading the Bible. God’s Word is living and active, and it is the standard by which you should live life. Finally, work hard at conforming your life to obey Jesus. This is the greatest sign of freedom in Jesus Christ. It proves to yourself and to others that Jesus really is Lord and Savior in your life. From one broken and weak sinner to another, I plead with you today; be set free by the blood of Jesus!
by Chris Aaron Rice
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me (the Messiah), Becuase He has anointed Me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent Me to announce release (pardon, forgiveness) to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed (downtrodden, bruised, curshed by tragedy), to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord [the day when slavation and the favor of God abound greatly].”
Luke 4:18-19
The characteristics of rejection are:
1. Easily hurt.
2. Doesn’t trust anyone.
3. Self-isolation.
4. Self-verification.
5. Won’t trust God with things.
6. Self-criticism.
7. Guilt.
8. Perfectionism.
In order to overcome rejection, do the following:
1. Recognize course - it is NOT from God.
2. Reject rejection by people.
3. Focus on God’s acceptance of you. Father (Creator) Son (Savior) Holy Spirit (Manager)
4. Be forgiving.
5. Be generous.
6. Resist sin - keep a clean conscience.
7. Get God’s image of you given in the Bible.
See how Jesus reaches out to people who society rejected.
Freedom from Depression and Anxiety
...continuted from page 6
Looking back I know God was being patient and loving through this instead of hitting me with conviction all at once, and the more and more I got closer, the more people faded from my life, and I read the Bible more and more, and then one day my old friend at the time asked me to do shrooms and this was a week after my 16th birthday and a small voice in my head that I never heard before told me “don’t do it”. I finally had gotten the strength, even though I sugarcoated it, I did say no…at first. But she kept pushing and said, “one last time”.
Just so you know, it’s never going to be “one last time”. This is also a trick Satan uses. So, I thought okay I’ll do it and then I won’t have to worry about it again. I can’t go into too much detail, because this doesn’t just involve my life, so I’ll just say that the whole time I felt dissociative and it felt very spiritual, and later on I had felt an evil presence which led me to start praying and while I was praying for this feeling and whatever was causing it to go away. When it did go away, God gave me revelation about the reality and truth of Him being real and a glimpse of his Holiness. My human brain could not fathom nor understand just that glimpse of what I experienced, right then and there I surrendered, repented and gave God my life. I did not regret it and I never have since then and I never will.
A day after, I found freedom from smoking cannabis, or doing anything that led to being high, I promised God when I repented that I would never do shrooms again, and I haven’t, and I won’t. I still fell into cannabis multiple times, but God was always right there to forgive me and direct me on the right path, and He didn’t stop there.
Sometime after, I started having horrible dreams of reoccurring trauma I’ve endured, flashbacks, thoughts, and feeling, all which were an attack from Satan, I quickly started realizing how deceiving things were and so I prayed for God to grant me discernment. I have been gaining discernment as I get closer and closer to God. He has brought freedom to my life from these dreams.
Spiritual warfare is real but no matter how big or extreme things feel, God is always bigger. Do not let the enemy deceive your mind or twist your perception of the truth. God is bigger than all things and especially remember that God is good. God loves you, God wants your worries, your fears, your stress, your pain. Sometimes we go through things to shape us and prepare us for spiritual battle or character development. We need to not only accept that He is real, but accept His words and the truth that He loves us and wants a relationship with us.
It’s definitely easier said than done, but whatever you do, no matter how much shame or guilt you feel, running away will not get rid of it. Repenting isn’t just saying “I’m sorry” but it’s turning away from sin, and God knows we will still fall, but God also wants us to try and put in effort.
Let me tell you right now, once you call on Jesus, and understand and acknowledge and accept the truth, you won’t want to leave no matter what. You now KNOW that God adores you and will bless you and prosper you and will give you eternal life and freedom along with His joy and His Holy Spirit (Romans 8:16, Ephesians 1:1314), Which I promise the Holy Spirit is one of God’s greatest gifts He gives us in this world (in my opinion) because with God’s Spirit inside you, who can trip you and keep you down? Who can hurt you and keep your chains bound? Who can take your life and keep your soul? NO ONE!
If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, choose to follow Him today. He is the only thing that can truly free you from whatever bondage you are facing in this life. He is the answer for now and all eternity.
by Briana G.
At the darkest hour, when the Son of God was rejected and nailed to a cross; when the sky was dark even though it was the middle of the day – Jesus uttered words of hope and promise in the midst of darkness: “It is finished.” These words ignited the flame that would burn for eternity and would change the course of human history.
But what do these words mean, and how do they affect us today? When Jesus declared, “It is finished.” (John 19:30), He was speaking not only of His earthly span of life which had come to a close, but also and more importantly of God’s plan of redemption. Jesus had lived a righteous life of obedience and now was dying as the sinless sacrifice for all the sins of mankind – past, present, and future. Through His oncefor-all death on the cross, Jesus accomplished salvation for all who would believe in Him.
There are several benefits that Jesus Christ accomplished for us when he died on the cross. First, Christ’s finished work on the cross made us right with God so that He can take us to His side and love us as His children (Romans 8:15-16). Second, Christ’s finished work on the cross made it possible for God’s Spirit, now dwelling within us, to give us victory over sin (see Romans 6:10,11,14; 8:6-9). In the same way Christ’s finished work on the cross enables us to become like Jesus (Romans 8:29). Indeed, this is the goal of every true Christian.
Defeating Today’s Goliath’s
My Friend, “The Stick”
As a child growing up in Philadelphia, I remember my great grandmother making homemade vanilla ice cream out of snow, ice cubes, sugar, and vanilla. I remember tugging on my mother’s dress and begging her for “just a little piece” of her hot and freshly baked pretzel covered in salt and thick mustard. I remember getting so excited at my first baseball game, that I spilt my coke and popcorn all over my “not-too-happy” and “I am-going-to-tan-that-hide” uncle.
However, the one memory which stands out above all the rest was my first friend, Ronnie Stickmeyer. Ronnie, by all standards was a strange guy. He was short. No, on second thought, compared to all us kids—he was a midget. He wore thick eye glasses which looked like the bottoms of coke bottles. He seemed to always suffer post nasal drip, having to constantly wipe his runny nose. He had bad breath and walked with a limp. And he was as skinny as a toothpick— hence his nickname—“The Stick”.
But other kids growing up on the dirty and dusty streets of Philadelphia had given Ronnie cruel and vicious nicknames. They described my friend as “goofy” and “tuberculosis breath”, and “one sandwich short of a picnic”. There were other names that they called Ronnie. But when I repeated these names to my mother, her eyes got real big, her face real red, and my behind real sore.
They Would Never Know Him
One evening, as Ronnie was leaving my house to go home, I overheard my dad ask my mom, “What does Mark see in that boy? He is really weird. He stinks. And he will never amount to anything…”
As I went to bed that evening, tears filled my eyes and rolled down my cheeks. I cried not only for Ronnie, not only for myself—but I cried for all those people, including my dad, who didn’t really know Ronnie and I cried because it seemed that they would never get to know him.
They didn’t know that Ronnie “The Stick” Stickmeyer was a genius. He was like a human computer—like a Brainiac plugged into Encyclo pedia Britannica. Ronnie could spell any word and solve any math problem. Also, despite his size and overall awkwardness, Ronnie could pitch a baseball with a violent velocity that literally left your glove “smoking”.
continued on page 15...
We will Sometimes Face a Giant
Like David who faced the giant Goliath each and everyone of us will at sometime face a giant that seems almost impossible to conquer.
For the poor and elderly at this hour that giant is the devastation brought on by the May 16th tornado. That is why in addition to offering direct help to those in need we must not neglect our greatest weapon of prayer.
