Revive (April 2016)

VOL 8 NO 2

APRIL-JUNE 2016

LIVING IN GRATITUDE Lientje’s story

THE POWER OF

your words

LEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP

SOCIAL ISSUES

OVERCOMING FEAR WITH FAITH

Victory Live IN

BREAKING FREE FROM FEAR BIBLE STUDY

E Q U I P P I N G

W O M E N

F O R

M I N I S T R Y

+

M I S S I O N

inside

20

Live in Victory

07

04 Overcoming fear with faith

08 Keeping your focus

APRIL-JUNE 2016

revive@salvationarmy.org

11 Breaking free from fear BIBLE STUDY 15 Living in gratitude MY STORY 16 The power of your words

SOCIAL ISSUES

20 Women at work and worship

IN THE PICTURE

04

COLUMNS

IN EVERY ISSUE

07 Healing and change LEADERSHIP

03

10 Refuge and strength SPIRITUAL LIFE

Editorial

18 The Prayer House

22 11

22 Books 23 iQuote

Front cover: Photo of Angela Prasad Back cover: 1 Peter 1:15-16, in Pidgin and English All Bible quotations throughout this edition of Revive are from the New International Version 2011 unless stated otherwise TM - The Message, GW - God’s Word, NASB - New American Standard Bible, NKSV - New King James Version, KJV - King James Version, GNB - Good News Bible, NLT - New Living Translation, SASB - The Song Book of The Salvation Army

Articles on any subject of interest to women in ministry are welcomed by the editor. To send an article, write to revive@salvationarmy.org

A resource magazine for women in ministry and mission Publisher: Commissioner Silvia Cox, World President of Women’s Ministries Editor: Major Deslea Maxwell Editorial assistance: Paul Mortlock Design: Berni Georges, Jooles Tostevin (pages 8-9, 18-19) © André Cox, General of The Salvation Army, 2016 Founders of The Salvation Army: William and Catherine Booth Printed in the UK by Lamport Gilbert Printers Ltd

Contact email address: revive@salvationarmy.org

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The Salvation Army International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4EH United Kingdom

Subscription details at:

http://sar.my/revsubu (Revive subscription UK)

http://sar.my/revsubo (Revive subscription overseas)

from the editor

Inspiration for living Major Deslea Maxwell EDITOR

I

f we are honest, I think all of us would say that there has been someone in our lives who has impacted us and has, whether we realised or not, become a role model.

Naturally, children take on the mannerisms of their parents.

They begin to imitate what they see and hear, and through the influence of others their lives and behaviour begin to take shape. I would often say to my children when they were about to leave the house: ‘Remember who you are, and whose you are.’

I didn’t say it to put pressure on them (although looking back it probably did) but I wanted to encourage them to be the best they could be, to remember that their reputation was at stake, and that they were God’s children and needed to behave as such.

For the Christian, our greatest desire should be to be like Jesus. But how do we do that when we are fallible human beings?

Some people think that saying the right prayers, doing the right things and hoping, will be enough, but that implies that we can be good enough if we try hard enough. But no matter how hard we try, we cannot transform ourselves into the image of Christ. The Spirit of Christ does that within us – that is his work.

The power to change doesn’t come from within us, it comes from him – not from fearing (being afraid of) God, but from loving him and being thankful for his goodness and grace.

We can invite him to do his work within us through prayer, studying the Scriptures, and our interaction with others in worship and service.

Of course, just because we endeavour to live like Christ doesn’t mean that life will be plain sailing. In fact Jesus said that we would encounter difficulties (John 16:33), but he uses those times to shape and mould us more into his image and likeness. You see, we learn to love by loving those who are hard to love, and we learn to forgive when others treat us badly. We learn to persevere through enduring obstacles and challenges. Our character is shaped more into the image of Christ not necessarily in the good times, but through difficulties and our reliance on him to cope with those difficulties.

We can overcome fear with faith and live in victory, confident that even through the challenges of life, God has something wonderful planned for us.

As you read the stories contained within these pages you will see that many of the writers have given us a glimpse into some of the challenges they have had to face in their lives, but have overcome them through their faith in God. Sadly, Lientje Mast, who shares her story of struggling with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, passed away in January this year. She was a lady who, despite the difficulties of failing health, found God to be her sufficiency. She overcame fear through her faith in God, knowing that she was in his hands, and that he had a wonderful plan for her life. As you reflect on her story, I would encourage you to reach out to her family through prayer.

As you read through these pages, may you be challenged to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit and be encouraged through the life of King David – a fallible human being who God himself called ‘a man after my own heart’ – and be inspired to live like Christ as you serve others.

‘We learn to love by loving those who are hard to love, and we learn to forgive when others treat us badly’ Revive 3

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Overco

B

orn into an Indo-Fijian family on the small Island of Fiji, life wasn’t easy for me until I came to know and received Christ Jesus as my personal Saviour.

After my birth my mother left me in the hospital because my parents wanted their first child to be a son. My paternal grandparents took me home and I was brought up by one of my aunts. When she married and my grandfather passed away it became too difficult for my grandmother to support me, so each year I moved around and stayed with different aunts and uncles.

It was a difficult time in my life. I didn’t have enough time for my studies and sadly I was not treated very well – I felt more like a housemaid than a niece. It seemed like nobody loved or cared about me and I felt so discouraged that I was always crying.

I was born into a strongly devout Hindu family, yet, despite giving my time to God through prayer and fasting, I still did not feel a peace

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feature

ming

with faith

Angela Prasad

within and thought that my suffering and struggles would not end until I died.

The only place I felt safe, loved and cherished was in school with my friends and teachers. Interestingly, there were times when I didn’t want to go home from school.

It was during this period in my life that I began to doubt the existence of our god and I stopped praying to the idols. My burdens were getting heavier with each passing day.

As I reached my final years of study no one in my family wanted to take responsibility for me – even my parents ignored me – and so my paternal families began to pressure me into marriage. I did marry, but it was a disaster. I was treated badly and beaten harshly, to the point where one night I was chased out of the house. I didn’t know what to do and so I spent the night under a bridge. Knowing I couldn’t stay there, I went to my aunt’s place – she helped me but sent me back to my husband.

One day my husband decided to go and visit his parents who were living in the United States of America, and from that day onwards I never heard from him again.

By this time my parents had separated. Along with my two beautiful daughters, I went to stay with my mother, but within four days of being there she chased me away because she would not believe that while she was away visiting other family members my stepfather had tried to sexually assault me in the middle of the night. Due to what happened to me, my stepsisters were sent away to a girls’ home and with the help of a stranger, along with my daughters and grandmother, I went to The Salvation Army’s Suva Family Care Centre.

At the centre I learned a lot of things that helped me both physically and spiritually. I was embraced, loved and made

‘I did marry, but it was a disaster. I was treated badly and beaten harshly’

to feel secure by Majors Maraia and Uraia Dravikula. I came to the centre with nothing except what I was wearing and left the centre with a lot of blessings – especially the blessing of accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. I was saved by God’s grace.

With God’s blessing the majors found a Hart Home for us all and supported us in whatever way they could through the help of The Salvation Army.

I managed to find work and tried to undertake further studies at university, but my income was not sufficient to cover everything. Again I started to face a lot of problems.

Unfortunately, the majors had been transferred to another appointment, so I approached another officer for help but I left our meeting feeling even more discouraged and helpless. I was not yet strong enough in my faith to go it alone, and because my non-Christian friends embraced and accepted me, I fell back into my old lifestyle.

In 2001 an uncle again came into the picture and persuaded me to enter into an arranged marriage. Because I was young and näive I was lured into another relationship. Six years later I realised that the man I was living with was not the right person for me as I became aware of the many relationships he had outside the home. By this time I had given birth to my son.

Once again my life was messed up. My grandmother and my daughters helped me by inviting Captain Marika Serevi to our home. The captain was used by God to encourage me, lifting me spiritually and physically and once again I was shown the light of Jesus Christ. At the beginning it was not easy because I had forgotten about church, but by having faith in God and through the help of the Holy Spirit, I managed to come through. I again found work and my children gained sponsors. Life was once again going smoothly.

During this time my grandmother suddenly became ill.

Learning that she had cancer, I had to take leave from work to look after her, but within two months of being diagnosed she passed away. After her death I realised that my purpose in life was not what I wanted it to be, but should be what God had planned for me. I started regularly attending church and Bible studies, taking part in most church activities and having family

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feature ‘Getting to know God better each day inspired me to reach out and help others who felt lost’

devotions at home with my children.

I also spent more time with God in prayer, asking him to direct me to the path he wanted for me and to show me what he wanted me to be and how to overcome my self-will.

Getting another job was not easy, so I moved to the Family Care Centre for a second time. As I settled into my new home and met women from different religions, backgrounds and races, I became aware of some of their difficulties. Something within reminded me that this was the place God wanted me to be. He wanted me to reach out to people and to share my story with them, telling them that God would always be there to love and care for them, no matter what happens.

Through the love and care of the centre manager, all of us were encouraged in our spiritual lives. We attended devotions twice daily and took part by testifying, attending Sunday worship, women’s meetings and rallies, and other corps (church) activities. Getting to know God better each day inspired me to reach out and help others who felt lost in the world – to show them God’s love and to bring them light by sharing God’s Word with them.

As I spent time in prayer and began relying more and more on God, I realised that he had a calling on my life. Captain Marika asked if I wanted to attend soldiership (membership) classes. This was the first step on the next stage of my spiritual journey, and in November 2011 I was enrolled as a senior soldier (member) of the Suva Central Corps.

On that day God confirmed to me that I did not arrive at the centre by accident but by his divine will. I have found a peace within after so many years and have discovered the true purpose of

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my life. I am also happy because I have my children’s support in fulfilling God’s purpose for my life.

Nine months later I left the centre to start a job at the Army’s Fiji Divisional Headquarters as a part-time data entry clerk. Now I work as a senior accounts assistant in the finance office at the division.

My journey has not been easy– every day I face challenges, both spiritually and physically, but I continue to trust and put my faith in God. Every day I stand firm and seek to become stronger in my faith. Temptations still come my way, but I believe I am where God wants me to be and that there is a calling over my life, so I am pleased to give my time in his service while waiting patiently for God to unfold his continuing plan for my life.

I know that God will never leave me nor forsake me. As I continue to put my trust in him, I know that he will bring me through any obstacle that comes before me. If he can do that for me, I know he will do that for you also.

Angela Prasad suva central corps new zealand, fiji and tonga territory

leadership

&CHANGE Healing

L

ife is not easy for many people. In my work at The Salvation Army’s House of Hope, Papua New Guinea, I am made aware of the many problems that women, especially young mothers, encounter daily that make for an uncertain future. I see it as a privilege to share God’s Word with them and I pray that they will see Christ and his love through the staff and me.

A young woman recently came to the centre for help and counselling – she was covered in bruises, the victim of domestic violence. The staff provided treatment for her wounds and gave her accommodation for three weeks. We came to know her as a woman of prayer as every day she would pray for her drug–addicted husband. However, during the first counselling session she made it quite clear that she was afraid to return to the family home because of the abuse she had received.

As I do with all clients, I took her on a journey through the Psalms and spoke to her about the life of King David. I have found that David’s life inspires the clients and helps them realise that they are not alone, despite what they are going through in their personal lives. I helped her to see that David’s life is an example of what a life handed over to God can achieve.

And so, through spending time together in God’s Word this young wife became aware of David’s humility, repentance, reverence, respect, trust, love, devotion, faithfulness and obedience to God. We talked about how David often failed and made mistakes, but God saw the desire of his heart.

As the weeks went by and with the help of the counselling sessions, she began to grow stronger emotionally and changes

took place in her life. I not only encouraged her to continue to pray for and love her husband, but also pointed out the importance of her marriage, her children and family life. She slowly began to realise that she had responsibilities she needed to resume. One day she came to me and said: ‘Major, I need to go back to my husband and family.’ We helped her pack her things and before leaving the centre I prayed with her.

We drove her home and when we arrived her husband came out to meet her. Crying he said: ‘I am so sorry for what I’ve done to you; I love you.’ He turned to me and said: ‘I will never do it again.’

A week later I called her to see how things were progressing and in the course of the conversation she told me that she had noticed her husband had changed. He had begun attending church services with her and she was thoroughly enjoying family life.

I thank the Lord that he is able to use me to help bring healing to those who come to our centre and I praise God for transformed lives.

Columnist for 2016

Major Ridia Nenewa manager, house of hope papua new guinea territory

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focus focus

Keeping your Keeping your Nipu Baroi

I

‘

t was really hard for me when I found out that my husband had had an affair,’ said my friend. ‘I screamed, lost my temper, and scolded him whenever I got the chance. I wanted to tell him he was wrong and was a sinner. I was so impatient that I didn’t hear anything he said and my behaviour was anything but Christian. It took a long time for me to recognise that, through my actions and words, I made it easy for him to be attracted to another woman. I didn’t take care of him properly and never thanked him when he did something for me. I slowly began to understand the part I played in our situation and came to God and surrendered myself and family to him, and my husband and I together confessed our wrongdoing and remembered our vows. Because of the grace of God, we are happy again.’

It is easy to advise others during crucial times in their lives but it is often hard when we experience the same challenges in our own. We can sometimes behave badly and hurt God through our attitude. Fortunately, God the Holy Spirit worked in my friend’s heart and, along with her husband, they made the right decision.

God has given us his Holy Spirit to guide us in the right way. John 14:26 says ‘But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you’ (KJV).

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Temptations come to everyone – even believers are not exempt – as Satan makes the temptation look attractive and powerful. The world is full of pleasures and influences that can catch us out, particularly when we think that no one else will get hurt or is watching – but the Lord sees. In Psalm 139:7-8 (NRSV) David says: ‘Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.’ Temptations come – even Jesus was tempted – but through our knowledge of the Scriptures and prayer we can face temptations and triumph just as Jesus did. To live like Jesus is hard, but not impossible.

There have been times during our officership (ministry) when money has been tight for my husband and me, tempting me to resign in order to make more money using my skills out in ‘the world’. During these times I find myself blaming God and arguing with him, but then I am reminded of a friend

‘When we live our lives and share his love with others, we create an atmosphere that may lead to positive change’

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right right who brings all her money to the feet of Jesus and relies on the amazing power of prayer to uphold her family with the small amount she has. She challenges me and reminds me of the inner peace that the Lord gives and the way that he knows all our needs.

I believe that a well-maintained spiritual life will help us keep our focus right and a strong relationship with the Lord can help protect us from sin. Matthew 6:25-26 (NASB) says: ‘For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?’ Yes, I am valued and lovable in God’s eyes.

Why should I be worried or be jealous of others?

My sister-in-law recently told me about a conversation she had with her son who was frustrated and very negative about God. ‘Mum, what have you received from the Lord by being honest and serving him?’ he asked. She replied, ‘I have received a good, happy family and two good, caring sons.’ This reminded me that at times believers will be mocked or asked loaded questions, but as Christians we are aware of God’s goodness.

When we live our lives and share his love with others, we create an atmosphere that may lead to positive change.

Recently I visited Sri Lanka for a conference and even though it is a Buddhist country, many places were adorned with Christmas trees and decorations. I found myself questioning why a Buddhist country would celebrate the birth of the Christ child and felt that it was quite superficial.

I thought about the way we as Christians sometimes live our lives – at times we say one thing but do another. Do people see Jesus in us? Do they hear Jesus in our words?

It is only as we spend time with him that we will grow to be more like him. Let’s walk in a manner worthy of the Lord – to please him in all respects – bearing fruit in everything we do.

When we live out our faith, people will see our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16). Let’s do our part and help others make a positive change in their lives.

Captain Nipu Baroi

COMMAND PRESIDENT OF WOMEN’S MINISTRIES BANGLADESH COMMAND

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spiritual life

Major Vanlalnungi Thiak

&

divisional director of women’s ministries central north division, india eastern territory

Columnist for 2016

Refuge strength

O

ne day, while travelling with other women to attend a Salvation Army divisional home league rally, the bus we were travelling on was ambushed by a group of 30 armed rebels.

They forced us off the bus and lined us up by the roadside. Our luggage was burned to ashes, and with guns pointed to our foreheads they threatened to kill us. This was such a frightening incident that some of us shook uncontrollably, while others cried out helplessly for fear of being shot.

At that very moment a voice inside me reminded me of the following words: ‘God is our refuge and strength, an everpresent help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging’ (Psalm 46:1-3).

Gathering up all my courage, I whispered to my friends: ‘Let us pray to God almighty, who is powerful and strong enough to save us from this dangerous situation.’ As we prayed, we suddenly heard the sound of a helicopter overhead, at which point the rebels shouted at us to run away and never look back.

Immediately we ran as fast as we could towards the nearest town – some 12 kilometres away – and kept running until we reached safety! You can probably imagine how thankful we were that our lives were saved that day.

In April 2015, when a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Nepal, killing more than 8,000 people and displacing hundreds of thousands more, the tremor was also felt in parts of India.

Captain Jerry Lalrozama, a Salvation Army officer (minister) in charge of the School for the Deaf in Darjeeling, described the situation: ‘We were having a cottage meeting in the house of a Salvationist when a telephone call from the home-owner’s daughter in America informed us that we were likely to be hit by the aftershock. Just five minutes later the aftershock shook the entire building and people panicked in fear, so I reminded them of the words from Psalm 46: ‘… we will not fear, though 10 Revive

‘Everyone experiences fear, because it has been a part of human existence since the Fall’

the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea…’ (v 2). God blessed my words and the Holy Spirit removed our fears, bringing peace to our hearts.’

Everyone experiences fear, because it has been a part of human existence since the Fall (Genesis chapter 3). Everyone, regardless of how brave they appear, is frightened of something, whether it be such things as an accident, poverty, disease, rejection, war or even death. Creator God knows that we often feel fear and dismay, and that is why we read in Isaiah 41:10: ‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.’ When you feel fear or when trouble comes into your life, remember that our God is a God of refuge and strength – he resides within you. Commit yourself into his mighty hands, so that peace will flow into your heart like a river, overcoming fear by faith in him.

It is said that the phrase ‘Do not be afraid’ appears 365 times in the Bible. That’s a daily reminder from God to be fearless.

bible study

Breaking

f r e e from

fear

Nolega Imbiakha

‘Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy”’ (1 Peter 1:13-16).

T

he book of Genesis shows us all the things God intended for human beings. He created Adam and Eve in his own image and likeness to be rulers over the earth: ‘Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground”’ (Genesis 1:26).

God expected them to live according to his perspective and gave them rules to live by.

God’s intention for us was to live abundant lives. This became clear with

the coming of Jesus into the world, for he came to give life – life in abundance (John 10:10). ‘Life in abundance’ was God’s intention at the time of creation but because of Adam and Eve’s initial sin (Genesis chapter 3) and then the ongoing sinful nature of humanity, God grieved that he had created humankind (Genesis 6:7).

In the person of Jesus Christ, we see a life lived in victory while on earth. He never fell prey to evil and set a goal for us to live the same way he lived.

The source of our victory

At the Fall a battle line was drawn. It was a battle between the Kingdom of God

and the kingdom of Satan. It was a battle aimed at redeeming human beings from the hands of Satan. God himself declared: ‘I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel’ (Genesis 3:15). We overcome Satan by living like God. God is holy and he requires his children to be holy (1 Peter 1:15).

Jesus is our example and he reinforced God’s demand for holiness by insisting in the Sermon on the Mount that his followers should have a high quality of righteousness (Matthew 5:20).

The word ‘victorious’ brings to mind a picture of a struggle. The Christian life Revive 11

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is indeed a struggle. Peter reminds us that there is an adversary who has to be overcome before a Christian can be said to be victorious (1 Peter 5:8-9). There are spiritual forces that are opposed to our endeavours (Ephesians 6:12).

Wickedness is fearful of righteousness (Proverbs 28:1; Romans 13:3-4) and such fear can cause one to act dishonestly (see 2 Samuel chapter 11; Matthew 28:4-15). ‘Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son’ (John 3:18). This fear leads to feeble attempts to hide from God (see Genesis 3:8; Revelation 6:15-17).

Focus on victory and do not fear

There are some people who do not fulfil the call of God on their lives because every time they try to move forward Satan whispers words of fear to stop them. Like David we do have a choice not to give in. He said: ‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you’ (Psalm 56:3).

Holiness requires work and believers are to prepare for action. This requires self-control and a clear understanding of the outcome of our actions. We must obey his commands and imitate his character: ‘Be holy, because I am holy’ (1 Peter 1:16).

When we are committed to God we endeavour to live righteous and holy lives – we continue to grow more and more into his image.

To ponder Biblical principles for victory: ●● To seek God – Matthew 6:33 ●● Our authority is in Christ – John 14:30 ●● Pray – Luke 11:1; Matthew 26:40-41; Hebrews 5:7 ●● Walking the path of righteousness – Proverbs 10:9.

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Prayer keeps us in contact with our source, and faith moves mountains (Mark 11:23).

Even though Christ has already earned the victory (1 Corinthians 15:57) we need to understand the relevance of our defensive and offensive weapons (see Ephesians 6:10-20).

Question What is fear? It may help to keep the following acrostic in mind: F alse E vidence A ppearing R eal So often the things we fear never become a reality. But sadly false fear can sometimes seem more real.

To ponder ‘God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given

us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, wellbalanced mind and self-control]’ (2 Timothy 1:7 AMP).

The fear factor

Stephen Renn in Expository Dictionary of Bible Words defines fear as: ‘A common verb, with the dominant sense of “to fear”, “be afraid” … it reflects the sense of both being terrified and standing in awe of God, as well as the fear of human beings and other earthly phenomena.’

The Bible generally speaks of two types of fear:

bible study

‘Prayer keeps us in contact with our source, and faith moves mountains’

and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”’ (Matthew 14:31 NLT).

Fear can bring limitation: fear can cripple us and stop us from doing great things for God.

Overcoming fear

1. The fear of God This is an attitude that God demanded from his people and still demands from us even today (Leviticus 19:14; 25:17; Psalm 33:8). ‘You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness’ (Ephesians 4:22-24).

2. The fear of Satan This fear causes distress and pain.

Satan knows that God is a jealous god:

‘You shall have no other gods before me’ (Exodus 20:3).

Fear torments: ‘For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places’ (Ephesians 6:12 NLT).

Fear can steal a miracle: Peter was on the edge of greatness, but his fear stole his miracle. He saw Jesus and started to walk on the water, but because of fear he took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink. ‘Jesus immediately reached out

So if we are to be imitators of Jesus – if we are to be holy as he is holy – we can grow more into Christlikeness by relying on him and his Word. He is strong, courageous, a conqueror, capable, bold and a peacemaker.

As we study the Bible and meditate on what God says about us, we will be able to recognise the fears that are holding us back and overcome them by seeing ourselves in Christ.

To live as God lives, the fruit of the Spirit must be cultivated in us (see Galatians 5:22): 1. Love … is having an attitude of goodwill and devotion to others and giving without expecting something in return.

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Question: Are you motivated to do for others as Christ has done for you, or are you giving in order to receive something in return?

2. Joy … is a supernatural gladness given to us by God’s Spirit that becomes evident during hard times. This is focusing on God’s purposes for the events in your life rather than on circumstances.

Question: Are you experiencing the joys of life on a regular basis, or only when things are going smoothly in your day?

3. Peace … is the presence of tranquillity, even when in a place of chaos. It is a sense of complete contentment, knowing that God is in control of all situations.

Question: Do you find yourself frazzled by the crashing waves of turmoil in your life, or do you experience ‘the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension’?

(Philippians 4:7 NASB).

4. Forbearance … is evident in long-suffering patience, perseverance and steadfastness. It is the ability to endure the difficulties of life.

Question: Do you react when things go wrong or people irritate you, or are you able to keep a godly perspective in the face of life’s irritations?

7. Faithfulness … is evident in the life of a person who seeks the good of others and to bring glory to God. Question: Are there areas of hypocrisy and indifference toward others in your life, or is your life characterised by faith in God and is that faith evident to those around you?

5. Kindness … is meeting the needs of others. It is moral goodness that overflows and the absence of malice.

Question: Is it your goal to serve others with kindness, or are you too focused on your own needs, desires or problems?

8. Gentleness … does not mean that one is powerless, but forgives others, corrects with kindness and lives in tranquillity.

Question: Do you come across to others as brash and headstrong, or do you allow the grace of God to flow through you?

6. Goodness … reflects the character of God. Goodness in you desires to see goodness in others and is not beyond confronting or even rebuking (as Jesus did with the money-changers in the temple [Matthew 21:12]).

Question: Does your life reflect the holiness of God? Do you desire to see others experience God at a deeper level in their lives?

9. Self-control … is releasing our grip on the fleshly desires and choosing instead to be controlled by the Holy Spirit.

Question: Are your fleshly desires controlling your life, or do you allow the Spirit to direct you to the things that please God and serve others?

‘Do you find yourself frazzled by the crashing waves of turmoil in your life?’

Jesus’ victory over temptation was not through human determination but because he drew strength from his Father. He continuously sought the power of God through prayer and was never disappointed.

It takes a brave person to face the world with determination and overcome external forces. But God is there for us – do not fear but live in the assurance of God’s grace. ‘“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”’ (Hebrews 13:5-6).

Major Nolega Imbiakha community care ministries/ retired officers and junior home league secretary uganda territory

14 Revive

my story

I

Living in

Gratitude

n January 2014 my doctor said: ‘You are affected by the severe muscular disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).’

My husband Guus and I were stunned.

We hardly knew what ALS meant as the worldwide ‘Ice Bucket Challenge’ had not commenced at that stage.

In the months before the diagnosis I was having increasing health problems – slowness in walking, stumbling, the loss of strength in my hands, uncontrollable fingers, choking and difficulty in speaking. Initially, I had an explanation for everything, but because ALS is a rare disease the first symptoms were not recognised as such by the doctor. It was only during the third consultation that I was referred to a neurologist instead of a physiotherapist and podiatrist.

Suddenly, I was looking into concerned faces, undergoing extensive research, being given second opinions from the Academic Medical Center (AMC) and then finally given the results. The professor spoke in plain terms and said: ‘Life expectancy is three to five years because there is still no effective cure.’

On leaving the medical centre the first line of Psalm 23 came into my mind: ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.’ From that moment, Psalm 23:1 became the starting point for everything.

Instead of fear, even when the disastrous course of the disease became clear to us, we accepted the future with gratitude for God’s countless blessings.

Every day I bring my thanks to God. Thanks for my loving and caring husband, for our family, for relatives and friends and their wall of prayer that surrounds us. I am grateful for 65 years of good health and for all that I can still do. My prayers changed to thanks.

Questions are superfluous – they are already known to him. Heartache for each other’s grief is by far the hardest, but the Lord is also providing for my husband and me in this respect. His heart-warming comfort is enough for each new day.

Although physical limitations are inevitably growing, the difficulty with my speech is the thing that bothers me the most.

When possible I participate at the AMC, University of Amsterdam, and the scientific research programme at the University Medical Center, Utrecht. There is a huge need for

‘Life expectancy is three to five years because there is still no effective cure’

data on ALS, so by doing this I can do something for both present and future patients. My heart goes out to families where one parent is affected – especially those with young children.

As a Salvation Army soldier (member) I have had the privilege of singing beautiful words and reciting texts about the daily strength and loving comfort of the Saviour. I can only say it’s true and only in his strength that I can be strong.

And even through my illness, I want to glorify the name of my God. Everything else grows pale in comparison with that.

‘While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being’ (Psalm 146:2 KJV).

Our children have been wonderful and Guus and I look forward to the future with confidence. We laugh, cry and pray together – God is good!

Lientje Mast the netherlands, czech republic and slovakia territory

Revive 15

social issues

The power of your

A

s I reflect on the past year, although there are many happy memories, sadly, 2015 was marred by countless international crises that demonstrate how broken our world is, and how desperately it needs the Saviour. One such moment that will forever be burned into my memory was 2 September, when pictures of the lifeless body of three-year-old Alan Kurdi – the Syrian boy who drowned in the Mediterranean Sea while his family was fleeing to safety – hit the worldwide media.

The photographs swiftly made global headlines prompting an international outcry over the Syrian refugee crisis and civil war.

It has been reported that 14 of the 23 people who climbed into the boat with the hope of a better life died, including Alan’s mother and five-year old brother.

Though tragic, the number of those who lost their life in this instance wanes in comparison to the massive number of deaths that scarred the Mediterranean summer, yet the images of Alan set this incident apart for many. As a Canadian, I couldn’t help but sit up and take notice, as it was reported that the family of four was fleeing to Canada to reunite with Tima Kurdi, Alan’s aunt and sister of his father Abdullah, in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The tragedy and injustice of this incident became even more prominent in our country when the Syrian crisis 16 Revive

Tiffany Marshall

became an issue in our 2015 federal election. For the first time during the years of civil unrest, the horror of families being torn apart and devastated by war was being recognised as an issue that needed to be addressed with the utmost urgency.

I have been witness to varied reactions to this crisis, some that inspire me and some that break my heart and stir up feelings of disappointment, even anger. My heart has been warmed as I have read reports and watched news coverage of countries offering aid and welcoming refugees in their greatest hour of need. I have also been moved by the honest vulnerability of people who have given testimony to experiencing feelings of confusion and helplessness in relation to the plight of our Syrian brothers and sisters.

I’m sure many of us have experienced moments of confusion, fear and helplessness with regard to this unjust situation. I also think that a better

understanding of the issues and a broader view with a divine connection might help us learn what we can do to offer help, thus aiding us in our response.

One such view is contained within the Gospels, where we are reminded that Jesus, too, was once a refugee, and that Joseph, Mary and Jesus were forced to flee to Egypt after Christ’s birth to escape from Herod.

I’ve had several conversations with people who are simply unsure if they can effect change and, being overwhelmed by the enormity of the situation, are even unsure where to start. It is during these exchanges that I remind individuals that their voice counts and speaking out always matters. Spoken or written, your words have power! Once you are aware of injustices, you must find your voice and use it however futile it may seem in the circumstances.

At a recent ecumenical gathering in Toronto a colleague asked these important questions during her message:

‘Once you are aware of injustices, you must find your voice and use it however futile it may seem’

social issues

‘What voice must we utter now? Where are we as people of faith, as churches?

Are we silent when we know we must cry out?’

Do not believe the lie that there is nothing you can do, for indeed some of the greatest work has started with the passion and conviction of but one person. Words, however trivial you may think they are at the time, have an effect – sometimes instantaneously, sometimes over time. Your words can contribute to a shift in policy or be the catalyst for action by your fellow brothers and sisters and those with whom you share in community.

So what can you do with your words? You could write to government

officials and ask them to support the humanitarian efforts regarding the Syrian crisis. You could offer a call to action by writing a column for your local newspaper or sharing posts on social media. You could initiate conversations in your community to raise awareness of the horrors that men, women and children face. You could speak to a small group at your corps (church) and initiate efforts to raise funds to sponsor a family that is migrating from Syria. Imagine the amazing impact we could have as a movement if every Salvation Army centre worldwide sponsored one Syrian family!

When I think of powerful words regarding this crisis I am reminded of

truths shared in part of a recent message from Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander of the Army’s Canada and Bermuda Territory: ‘In the Kingdom of God there are no others, only brothers and sisters. When we welcome refugees, when we extend our hands to all who are marginalised in our society, we proclaim the gospel. This is our greatest witness to the world, as Christ said: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). God’s love knows no borders. His salvation is for all people, of all ages, from all walks of life, all cultures, nationalities and languages – all are welcome and all are loved.’

Your words today can validate the suffering of those who remain in the evil grip of injustice worldwide. Your words can start to build bridges of trust and mutual respect with humanity.

Allow your voice to be heard. Your voice matters and can be part of healing this fractured world.

Major Tiffany Marshall public relations officer, territorial headquarters canada and bermuda territory

Revive 17

THE

prayer

HOUSE

‘They all joined together constantly in prayer’ (Acts 1:14)

Drawing closer to God through the Psalms

D

o you have a favourite Psalm?

Christians over the centuries have turned to the book of Psalms to find solace and encouragement. In reading and meditating on the Psalms many are able to better understand and relate to God. The psalmists opened their eyes, ears, minds and hearts as they reached out to God and likewise they help us do the same. They shared the experiences of life – their findings and feelings – in expressive verse that tends to draw one to God. David is the writer of many of the Psalms we frequently read and hear. The experiences of his life – both good and bad – and the love he had for the God he knew loved him, comes through as we read.

David was an extrovert: outgoing, persuasive, gregarious and optimistic.

He was a man filled with enthusiasm and was able to enlist the aid of followers to go to war and accomplish his goals.

Being socially oriented, he easily related to others and reached out to strangers.

From an early age children hear 18 Revive

the stories of David: the shepherd boy who slew the giant Goliath with only a few stones and a slingshot; his friendship with Saul’s son Jonathan; and later the story of his sin of adultery with Bathsheba. Although his life was obviously not perfect he had a strong sense of God. He came to God with his sin as well as his weaknesses and strengths and found forgiveness and grace. His openness and sensitivity to God led to him being called ‘a man after my own heart’ (Acts 13:22) and often being mentioned in the New Testament.

Through David’s writings we can see that God spoke to him through creation while spending his early years as a shepherd in the fields. Even today his penned thoughts and prayers bring us closer to an understanding of God and encourage us to openly communicate thoughts and feelings at deeper depths.

David’s praise of the Lord in Psalm 32 – which was written after bringing to God his brokenness and attempted cover-up – thanks God for the forgiveness and grace to be found in him. From this prayer of confession

flow shouts of joy. What a testimony and encouragement for those of us who feel we don’t deserve God’s love, or we don’t have a right to come to him with our sinfulness and shame. David found God to be his hiding-place, instructor, protector, teacher, counsellor and deliverer (vv 7-8).

As an extrovert David was always busy living in the ‘outer’ world, compared to an introvert who spends more time living in a quiet ‘inner’ world.

His prayers most likely included or incorporated physical activity such as walking, or being involved in a routine activity such as watching or running after the sheep. Today we might find ourselves communicating with God while sitting in traffic or during a long drive.

Author and theologian Richard Foster speaks of going outside to shoot hoops as he reviews his day – this is a physical form of prayer called ‘Examen’*.

By doing so he felt he could better relate to the God who is out there and at work in his world.

Many extroverts find it’s a great encouragement and help to pray with

the prayer house

‘David found God to be his hiding-place, instructor, protector, teacher, counsellor and deliverer’ others, as they find their prayers seem to go to greater depths and are full of rich meaning. The introvert, on the other hand, generally relates more easily to the God who is within, praying for long periods of time in quiet introspective settings.

Take time to read through the Psalms and catch a glimpse of how God worked in and through the writer’s lives and perhaps you will find for yourself a closer understanding of God and his love for you.

Commissioner Nancy Roberts LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN USA CENTRAL TERRITORY

* Examen is a technique of prayerful reflection on the events of the day in order to detect God’s presence and discern his direction for us. The Examen is an ancient practice in the Church that can help us see God’s hand at work in our whole experience. The method presented here is adapted from a technique described by Ignatius Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises: www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-spiritual-exercises

Revive 19

in the picture

women

at work and worship

Left: Major Maria KontiGalinou distributes food to refugees in Victoria Square, Athens Above: Women preparing food for refugees in Europe

Above and right: Commissioner Silvia Cox enjoys meeting women during her travels 20 Revive

in the picture

Left: Women from House of Hope, Papua New Guinea, with manager Major Ridia Nenewa Below: Officers take part in discussion groups during the South Asia Zonal Women’s Ministries Conference

Above: Salvationists from Rwanda present a timbrel item during the command’s 20th anniversary celebrations Right: Women take part in worship during the Bermuda Congress Below: A Salvationist introduces a client to the Scriptures at Pathways of Hope, Norridge, USA Central Territory

Revive 21

book offer

Books by female writers

All 7 books normally £30.50 our special price

ONLY

£15

postage included

Joyfully His

Women’s Ministries 2016 Twelve new Bible studies for 2016 have been prepared and written by women of all ages, representing The Salvation Army worldwide.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE COPY NOW AT:

PLEASE MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO ‘THE SALVATION ARMY’, ADDRESSED TO: Available in English, French Spanish, Portuguese, Norwegian and Swedish

www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/biblestudyjoyfullyhis 22 Revive

Communications Section, The Salvation Army International Headquarters, 101 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4EH, United Kingdom Please include your name and address

‘But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.’

‘We fail in the work of grace and love when there is too much of us and not enough of God.’ Suzanne Woods Fisher

‘When we are securely rooted in personal intimacy with the source of life, it will be possible to remain flexible without being relativistic, convinced without being rigid, willing to confront without being offensive, gentle and forgiving without being soft, and true witnesses without being manipulative.’

Henri J.M. Nouwen

1 John 2:6 (The Message)

‘Radical obedience to Christ is not easy... It’s not comfort, not health, not wealth, and not prosperity in this world. Radical obedience to Christ risks losing all these things. But in the end, such risk finds its reward in Christ. And he is more than enough for us.’

David Platt

‘Put My yoke upon your shoulders—it might appear heavy at first, but it is perfectly fitted to your curves. Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble of heart. When you are yoked to Me, your weary souls will find rest.’

‘I have never met the man I could despair of after discerning what lies in me apart from the grace of God.’ Oswald Chambers

Matthew 11:29 (The Voice)

‘What you are is God’s gift to you, what you become is your gift to God.’ Hans Urs von Balthasar

‘To return evil for good is demonic.

To return good for good is human.

To return good for evil is the way of Jesus.’

‘God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him.’

John Piper

Nicky Gumbel

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Nogat. God i singautim yupela pinis, em i holi. Olsem na yupela tu i mas i stap holi long olgeta wokabaut bilong yupela. Baibel i tok olsem: ‘Mi stap holi. Olsem na yupela tsu i mas i stap holi.’

1 Peter 1:15-16 Pidgin

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’

1 Peter 1:15-16