NOTW Blog - NOTW Founder & CEO Aurelio F Barreto's Blog

Merry CHRISTmas

2014-12-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

Well it is that time of year again when Christmas decorations are everywhere and people are a little nicer. Unfortunately, this is also the time when it is so easy to get caught up in the busyness of the season that we forget its true meaning. The world has done a good job of attempting to take Christ out of CHRISTmas by means of substitution. They say “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas” and try to convince people that it is all about giving and getting presents instead of drawing attention to Christ and His birth. However, Matthew 1:23 says otherwise.

“‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us.’”

So you see, Christmas is about Jesus coming to us in human form as a baby with the intent of shedding His blood and dying so that we might live. This is the reason that red is the color of Christmas. This is the most precious gift that God or anyone could ever give you. God gave YOU His only Son because He loved YOU so very much and wanted to save you (John 3:16). Have you accepted that gift? If not, do so now. The Bible says that if you confess your sins and accept Christ into your life then you will be saved (John 3:16).

We want to take the time to thank you for your valuable support of NOTW this Christmas season. We know you have choices to purchase from other retailers, but know that you support God’s work when you buy through NOTW. A portion of sales is donated to your choice of 3 Christian ministries. By God’s grace, thousands have been saved through these ministries, and millions around the world are being encouraged daily through God’s Word and encouragement on all of our NOTW products. Your partnership with us is spreading God’s message of love, hope and peace.

May the Lord Jesus bless your Christmas season. Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

In His Name,
NOTW Team

Use Christmas to share the Gospel

2014-12-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Guest Blog by © Ray Comfort, 2014

When I recently pulled up at a stop sign, I read it as the acronym: "STOP: Special Time Of Prayer.” So I decided from then then on to try and remember to have a special time of prayer for our nation every time I saw a stop sign. I not only need to pray for my nation, I need to be reminded to pray for my nation.

It's the same with Christmas. It’s a good reminder for me as to why I exist as a Christian and to what I should be doing.

While some argue that Christmas is pagan, commercial, or even demonic, I use it (like the stop sign) as a reminder, that Jesus came into the world to save sinners, as well as a reminder to take every opportunity to preach the gospel to the lost. They are the ones that need to hear its message.

I’m sure you know the story of the Good Samaritan. He’s the one that showed that he loved his neighbor as himself by tending to the needs of a stranger. His example should be the normal practice for human beings, but it’s not. This is evident when someone returns a wallet that is full of money or he gives his jacket to a homeless person on a cold day. Such kindness becomes instant and national news (especially around Christmas), and the fact that its newsworthy is a testimony of the rarity of human kindness.

Would you stop and help a stranger if he had been beaten? I’m sure you would. Would you bathe his wounds, put him in your car, take him to a place where he would be cared for, and then tell the manager that whatever he spends you will pay the bill?

Here’s another even more revealing question. Do you help those whom the enemy has ravaged in his agenda to kill steal and destroy? Do you pour in the oil and the wine of the gospel? Or do you cross over to the other side, busy with God’s work and leave the task of evangelism to others? There is no greater evidence that we fall short of loving our unsaved neighbor, than the complacency that we have to the fact that he is heading for a very real Hell.

Christmas is a perfect time to stop and reach out to the lost—to give gifts to unsaved friends, neighbors, or to family members. We can give them Christian books or DVD’s that contain the gospel, or send a Christmas card with a gospel tract tucked inside, or to actually speak to him about his eternal salvation. Just ask what he’s doing for Christmas, say how you love it because it reminds you of the most important event in human history. Then bite the bullet. Ask him what he thinks happens after someone dies. If you don’t know what to say next, check out our witnessing clips. They will help you: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL26524DA9664D92C5

Is Christmas pagan? Is Santa “Satan” misspelled? Are trees in the house a form of idolatry? That’s something you have to work out for yourself. In the meanwhile use Santa’s bouncy stomach as a springboard for the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. And do it this Christmas, while it’s still legal to do so.

NOTW Warehouse Sale Continues!!

2014-12-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas, a celebration of God's Gift to mankind

2014-12-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

It is our prayer this Christmas that you can rest in the reality of Christ! I know from personal experience that no matter how challenging the circumstances, how discouraged, or how lonely you may feel at Christmas, God truly loves you and is with you wherever you may be. Will you take time this Christmas to believe that God is good, that He loves you and that He is with you? Will you place your burdens upon Jesus today? Christmas is about God’s unfathomable love for mankind and His everlasting gift of His Son, our Lord and Savior, JESUS!

“For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” John 3:16

We want to take the time to thank you for your valuable support of NOTW this Christmas season. We know you have choices to purchase from other retailers, but know that you support God’s work when you buy through NOTW. By God’s grace, over 18,000 people have been saved through this ministry, and millions around the world are being encouraged daily through God’s Word & encouragement on all of our products. Your partnership with us is spreading God’s message of love, hope and peace.

May the Lord Jesus bless your Christmas season. Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

NOTW Team

NOTW Warehouse Sale (12/12 & 12/13)

2014-12-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2014-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is an opportune time to reflect on God’s proven goodness; a time to celebrate and rejoice over all the blessings God has given us. Reflecting on God’s provision encourages us to keep moving forward in faith, with the assurance that He will always provide and rescue us yet again!

"I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles," Psalms 34:1-6

This season, if you’re struggling due to health, finances, relationships or loneliness, be assured that God understands what you are going through. Maybe you have been praying for a long time without God answering you; please do not give up now. How willing are you to accept God’s delays? Sometimes His answers are but another prayer away. Faith believes that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Often I have asked God to help me overcome my unbelief and so can you!

This Thanksgiving, why not take the focus off of your circumstances and do something nice for someone? Whether it is inviting someone over for Thanksgiving dinner, sharing a smile, a thank you, or a praise, these are things we can do for others to make their day special and it pleases God.

In His Grace,
Aurelio F. Barreto III, FOUNDER

6 Ways to Get an Unspeakable Joy

2014-11-23T19:00:00.000-08:00

Guest Blog by © Ray Comfort, 2014

The celebration of Thanksgiving was originally set aside as a day to thank God for His provision, but for many it’s become like the ever popular “moment of silence.” Years ago when there was a national tragedy, people didn't become momentarily silent as a sign of respect. They prayed. That was the normal thing to do. It was also once normal to have God at the center of Thanksgiving.

As Christians we should celebrate Thanksgiving every day, but for some a thankful heart can wane. Recently I received the following question from an Associate Pastor. He said, "The last couple of months something has happened to me on the inside. I don't know what it is but I have lost all desire for ministry. I still pray daily and read the Word, but things of ministry have no interest to me. I just cannot seem to stir myself back up. Any advice you think may help?"

I did have some advice that I thought would help. I told him that every day I ride a bike for 1 ½ miles and really push myself. But one day when I got back from the ride I was so out of breath I felt like giving up. Instead of giving up I pumped the tires until they were hard as rock, and came back the next day from the ride feeling like I could do push-ups. Air leaking out of tires is slow and quiet, but its result is devastating for those who are in a race.

Christians are in the ultimate race, so we need to regularly put the air back into our tires and seal the cap tight. If the joy of a heart of thanksgiving has been deflated, the only effective way to get pumped about God is to think seriously about our sins in the light of His moral Law (that He sees our lust as adultery, etc.) and our consequent just damnation.

Then we should think about that writhing body pinned by nails so that we could avoid Hell. Scripture says, "...let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrew 12:1-2).

There are also five other practical exercises you can do to get yourself pumped and joyously thankful to God. Start your day by holding your breath for a full 60 seconds or longer. That will make you thankful that you can breathe.

Then don’t eat anything for 24 hours. Just drink water. That will make you thankful for food.

Next, visit a convalescent home for 2-3 hours and chat with those who still have a mind to chat. That will make you thankful for your mind and mobility.

Then take courage and visit a cancer ward in a hospital and share the Gospel with those who are dying. That will make you thankful you are alive and have some sort of future.

Finally, spend some time in a graveyard, soberly reading the names and dates on the tombstones. Think about the person whose body is beneath your feet--about how long they lived and where they will spend eternity. You will probably get a clue by what’s written on the tombstone. That will make every day Thanksgiving for you because of what Jesus did on the cross.

If these things don’t work, you need to go back to square one and do this quick test: www.NeedGod.com

Expectant Faith

2014-10-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

There is nothing more rewarding and God honoring than when we exercise an expectant faith that says God is able, God is willing, and God will do it! When we pray and believe in God’s good and loving nature to give us all things good, we can experience fellowship in the process of Him answering our prayers. Whether it is physical, family, or financial, there is nothing greater than receiving what we have prayed for in faith!!!

"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” Romans 4:18-21

Nothing is too large, or too small for God to not get involved in, and for us to not receive His undeserved favor. The Holy Spirit uses Spurgeon below to open our eyes of faith and exercise our God given power to make the impossible-possible, through our faith!

"...faith is the only way whereby we can obtain blessings. If we want blessings from God, nothing can fetch them down but faith. Prayer cannot draw down answers from God’s throne except it be the earnest prayer of the man who believes. Faith is the angelic messenger between the soul and the Lord Jesus… Faith is the telegraphic wire which links earth and heaven—on which God’s messages of love fly so fast, that before we call he answers, and while we are yet speaking he hears us. But if that telegraphic wire of faith be snapped, how can we receive the promise? Am I in trouble?—I can obtain help for trouble by faith… Faith links me with divinity, Faith clothes me with the power of God. Faith engages on my side the omnipotence of Jehovah. Faith ensures every attribute of God in my defense. It helps me to defy the hosts of hell. It makes me march triumphant over my enemies. But without faith how can I receive anything of the Lord?… O, then, Christian, watch well thy faith; for with it you can win all things, however poor thou art, but without it we cannot obtain anything."

"Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26 Faith says; "I do not know when, and I do not know how, but I know that God will help me!" God loves you!

In His Grace,
Aurelio F. Barreto III, FOUNDER & CEO

Is the Supernatural real?

2014-10-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Guest Blog by © Bill Myers, 2014

I love it when my science friends say there is no supernatural. When they insist that there's only the material world, that life is only what we can we can touch, see, taste, smell and measure. That's usually when I ask them about something they call Dark Energy and Dark Matter. They named it that because they know it’s here, they just can’t touch, see, taste, smell or measure it. It’s even more frustrating because it makes up 93% of reality.

TRANSLATION: If you only believe in the material world you only believe in 7% of reality!

The same goes for dimensions. We see and live in three - length, width, and height. But many physicists and mathematicians insist we live in at least 11 dimensions, or 22, or even more!

TRANSLATION: Much of science believes there are at least 7, 18 or more dimensions around us that we can’t see.

Does your brain hurt? Only if you try to squeeze all your understanding of reality into the natural world. But if you believe in the SUPERnatural, the one Jesus and the Bible speak of, it’s a piece of cake.

Over the years I've become a reluctant, supernatural know-it-all. Not because I wanted to, but because after "McGee and Me," a major Christian publisher asked me to write a book series unmasking the various supernatural counterfeits seducing today’s teens. The result was a 12 part book series that won the C.S. Lewis Honor Award, titled "Forbidden Doors."

While researching the series I traveled around the world investigating everything from demon possession, to UFO’s, to Wicca, to astrology, to reincarnation, to counterfeit angels, to, well the list goes on. Why? Because I wanted to get it right. This meant interviewing people like the head of the now dismantled CIA Psychic Research Department, the Son of Sam Serial Killer, mystics, UFO experts, witches, Satanists, top psychics, people struggling with demon possession, and ghost hunters.

The verdict? A lot of it is fake, people looking to make money off the gullible. But a lot of it is also real... sometimes with ugly, even deadly consequences. My mailbox is full of e-mails from kids and adults struggling with the dark side of the supernatural. Some of them merely have overactive imaginations. But for others it has been terrifying reality.

The good news is, in my twenty years of investigation, not once have I seen Jesus Christ fail to overcome the problem. That's quite a batting average. It may not happen at once, sometimes God lets the enemy use situations to test our faith or draw us closer to Jesus. But in the end He always wins.

My favorite story was when I visited one of the top psychic labs in the world. Was I scared? Oh, yeah. That’s why I was quietly praying nonstop along with several people back home. But the cool thing was whenever I entered a lab room or approached an experiment, the supernatural activity would stop. It was almost embarrassing. It got to the point where the staff was teasing me of having “negative psychic energy.” And, in a sense, they were right. Whatever was affecting the various experiments either stopped or left the room when I entered.

Why? Because I was some great man of God? I wish. No, it wasn't me. It was Who I hung out with.

From personal experience and years of research I believe spooky, supernatural stuff can happen. Am I frightened of it? No. And if you’re a Believer in Christ, you don’t have to be either. Because if we call on Him, Jesus Christ always, always has the power and ultimate victory. To Him, the devil’s creepy, special effects are laughable – just our enemy trying to scare us to put our faith into him, instead of Christ.

My most dramatic memory involved helping free a top LA psychic from demonic control. I was young and stupid and didn't know how much power I had in Christ so I’d pretty much worn myself out fighting with my own strength. It was then that a friend in the room claimed he saw Jesus Christ. According to him, the Lord was just calmly standing there, no ranting, no hollering, no shouting. Instead, Jesus simply glanced at the man and the demons left, screaming in terror. That was all it took... just one, single glance.

That’s the power Jesus Christ has over darkness. That’s why, regardless of the special effects the devil may use to try and scare us, if we've committed our lives to Christ, we’ll always, ALWAYS, have the ultimate victory. It may take a little while as Jesus tests and grows our faith, but He is our ultimate power which means we will have the ultimate victory. Or as 1 John 4:4 says:

"The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Help Tell Others About the Truth of the Supernatural

Not of This World (NOTW), along with Bill Myers are in the final phase of raising funds for the full-length feature film, Forbidden Doors. Much of the money for the film has already been raised, but we need your help to raise the final $400,000!

Do you want to tell others about the Truth of Jesus Christ & the supernatural? Let your voice be heard by backing this project here!

What is PTM? - Levi Mitchell

2014-10-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

Guest Blog by Levi Mitchell

PTM = Pure Till Marriage

This is a phrase I came up with in 2012 when describing my stance on sex before marriage and my belief in the Bible and Jesus Christ.

I began to get asked to do interviews while doing music and traveling around the world to speak to youth groups, I decided to be bold about my choice to remain pure until marriage. I believe that God will bless me for deciding to keep His commandments and treat my body as a temple. (1 Corinthians 6:13)

This is a choice that I make daily to deny my flesh. I pass no judgment on you, if you have already had sex (Romans 3:23) or if you do not hold the same values but, I do ask you to take the PLEDGE and start today no matter your past, stand with me and remain PTM from today until your wedding night.

I seek God everyday by reading the bible and praying, I believe that the teens of today are the future leaders, world changers, movers & shakers and will be the ones to carry the message of the Gospel.

PTM is a Movement, a Statement, and a Pledge to stay pure.

Pledge today to stay Pure Till Marriage here

Get Levi's 'Fear Ends Where Faith Begins' shirt here.

NOTW Behind The Scenes - Christmas 2014 for Girls

2014-10-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here’s a little snapshot of what is coming Christmas 2014 to NOTW.com for the girls! We have a lot of colors, different body styles and different messages that express our love and praise for our Lord Jesus.

My favorite is "Cross Hatch". Why? If you look closely at the artwork, you’ll notice it's all hand drawn lines going all different directions. The cross is in the center, straight, clean… because Jesus is perfect. Our lives can be full of chaos with this and that, but we need to gravitate to God, the One at the center & on top of everything in our lives, on a daily basis. Inside the lines, there's a hidden message that says "Believe…and be saved. Not Of This World".

"Cross Hatch" is coming soon for girls, but is currently available for men in a Jade color. Check it out here!

Patty G.
Art Director at Not Of This World

2014 NOTW Fall Lookbook

2014-10-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

With the Fall season upon us, get ready for the cold weather with a preview of our modest NOTW Fall inspired women's fashion.

See all of the Fall Lookbook pictues on our Pinterest board here

Outfit features: Spur Cross 3/4 Hi Low Top
Paired with military green denim, khaki vest, long beaded necklace and riding boots.

Outfit features: Cross Hearts SS Tee and 3 Cord Bracelet
Paired with black skater skirt and glitter tights with short combat boots.

Outfit features: By Stripes 3/4 Sleeve Raglan and Love Script Bracelet
Paired with infinity scarf and copper denim and combat boots.

Outfit features: Grace Dolman and NOTW Hoop Earrings
Paired with copper denim, cropped paisely kimono, combat boots, and gold necklace and beaded bracelets.

Outfit features: Wonderfully Dolman Top
Paired with dark wash denim, beaded bracelets and riding boots.

Outfit features: Leopard Cross Dolman and Son and Spirit Lariat Necklace
Paired with copper denim and combat boots.

Outfit features: Free In Christ Hi Low Top
Paired with copper denim, oversize knit sweater with combat boots and a chiffon headband.

Outfit features: West Cross Hi Low Top, Faith Script Necklace, and NOTW Stackable Rings
Paired with dark wash denim, knit cardigan, gold bangles and riding boots.

Outfit features: Proverbs 31:30 crewneck sweater and Grace Script Bracelet
Paired with dark wash denim, combat boots and a crochet headband.

Outfit features: Humble America Oversize top
Paired with copper denim, military jacket, tennis and knit headband.

Pray for NOTW

2014-10-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Praying Friends,

There are times when community prayer is essential. For NOTW this is the time. I thank the Lord that He leads us to constantly pray, and now we ask you to join us like never before. I humbly ask you to please pray for NOTW as the Holy Spirit leads. That our sales would increase and that we would continue to minister to millions more in Christ!

I am reminded of Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Whether it be family, health, finances, emotional or spiritual, in all things, God says to never stop praying. Why? Because our loving and graceful God listens to our prayers! With this said, can you please pray for us and ask others to do so as well? I do ask you to share this post and consider helping us by wearing your faith today @ https://www.notw.com/

In His Grace,
Aurelio F. Barreto III, FOUNDER & CEO

NOTW Showroom Grand Opening + Warehouse Sale (8/11/2014)

2014-10-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

Join us in celebrating the grand opening of the Not Of This World showroom and bless someone in need during our food drive. Stay tuned for further special updates! We'll be having a huge Warehouse Sale also, so there will be tons of exclusive deals!

How To Walk By Faith, Not By Sight

2014-10-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

Guest Blog by Wes Ireton

You have likely seen this verse on a coffee cup, greeting card, or t-shirt at some point in your life. This verse is often among the favorites for many.

"for we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Cor. 5:7)

Granted this portion of Scripture could apply to nearly all aspects of our lives. You may have heard this statement used in a prayer meeting for someone in need of healing. You might have also heard it used to encourage someone going through financial hardships.

While I agree that this phrase could offer encouragement in these occasions, there is a chance that many of us miss what the Apostle Paul meant in penning these words to the church in Corinth. Let's take a look at the verses that surround.

"So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him." (1 Cor. 5:6-9)

Now we can get a better idea of what Paul is talking about when he says "we walk by faith, not by sight". Paul was reminding these believers of the life to come. He was encouraging them to live eternally minded. There should be this discomfort that comes with life on this planet, because we are away from our Lord. He reminds them that while we are here on this earth in these tents, we will never be fully satisfied. So rather than chasing after satisfaction on this earth, we are to live our lives to please the Lord who has an eternal satisfaction awaiting those who serve Him.

When we use this verse as encouragement and a source of hope, let's understand the truth.

When we are struggling financially – "we walk by faith, not by sight." We know that when we store up treasures in Heaven, no moth can destroy it, and no thieves can steal it (Matt. 6:19). We are not concerned with earthly riches, but we know there is great gain in godliness with contentment (1 Tim. 6:6).

When we are suffering illness – "we walk by faith, not by sight." Sickness, disease, pain, and tears are reminders that our citizenship is in Heaven (Phil. 3:20). We have an eternal hope where there is no sickness, pain, or tears. One glorious day, we will be completely made whole.

When we become anxious - "we walk by faith, not by sight." We know that our Father provides for us. We do not need to become anxious about anything, but in prayer, make our requests known to Him (Phil. 4:6). When we seek first the Kingdom of God, and find our pleasure in Him, He will give us the desires of our hearts (Matt. 6:33, Ps. 37:4).

The more that we remind ourselves that this earth is not our home, the easier it will be to face its challenges. When we walk according to who we are in Christ, rather than what we see around us, we will possess a everlasting hope that overcomes all obstacles.

Read the original blog post here

Share the message with others with our 'Live By Faith' shirt.

Hebrews 6:19 Anchor To My Soul Tee - Joelle Janigian for NOTW.com

2014-10-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

What does "Jesus is the anchor to my soul" mean? Joelle of MySundayDress.com gets deep today on Hebrews 6:19, and shares her styling tips for one of our latest tees.

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain" Hebrews 6:19

Jesus Is Coming Back Tomorrow

2014-09-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

We have all heard it – "Jesus is coming back." We have heard the predictions, we have heard the warnings. The question is, do you think that Jesus will return? Better yet, do you want Jesus to return? These were the very questions that Wes wrestled with, although he had grown up in church. The reality is, many Christians today are in the same boat. Many doubt Christ will return (or anytime in their lifetime), and many do not want him to. This reality is what led Wes to write the book, Jesus is Coming Back Tomorrow.

What would your today look like if His reappearance were an absolute for tomorrow? For believers in Christ, we are not uncertain as to whether or not Christ’s return will occur. We know that the "Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels" (Matthew 16:27). In John 14 Christ says that he is "going to prepare a place for you" and "if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be also" (John 14:1-4). So, for the follower of Christ, we know his return is assured. He will return for his Bride, for His people, created for His glory. The question still remains – What if His return is tomorrow? Are you ready? Are you prepared? Would you be upset? Would you be terrified?

Watch the book promo & get a copy of the book at Follow-ology.com, Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble.

David Lopez NOTW Interview (Part 1/2)

2014-09-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

Well known for his comical Vine videos, David Lopez shares now on his faith in Christ and answers 2 important questions in society today:

What does it mean to be a Christ-follower?
How do you know what God's will is?

Watch & get a perspective from our brother David. What other questions would you like to see answered? Let us know in the comments section below.

RGIII & Following Christ in front of the World

2014-09-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Robert & his family (left); Robert at the press conference (right).

Guest Blog by Wes Ireton

How do you follow Christ when you are in front of the world? In a recent press conference, our brother Robert Griffin III (aka RG3) wore his NOTW Know Jesus shirt but was soon told that he could not wear the shirt during the conference. Having to now deal with an injury and the possibility of a fine for wearing the shirt, RG3 flipped it inside out and went on with the conference humbly sharing that "everything happens for a reason, and that God has a plan".

So how do you follow Christ in a world that continually rejects & opposes God and the Truth? Here are a few characteristics of Christ follower that we think will help you be more like Christ & less like the world.

5 Characteristics of a Christ follower

1. They Love People, Like Christ Loved Them.

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35)

A sacrificial, and unconditional love for others is proof that we are the followers of Jesus. This is not just a love for those who have their acts together, but for the sinner as well.

2. They Love Christ More Than Anything Else.
By far easier said than done. When we love Christ more than anything, this means that everything else in life pales in comparison to him. Like the Apostle Paul said, we consider everything else to be “trash” in order that we might gain Christ, and be found in him (Phil 3:7-9). Christ makes it clear that he must be supreme when he says, “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37). He must be ultimate in our eyes, and in our hearts.

3. They Memorize Scripture.
A disciple knows God’s Word. Christ says “if you abide in my word, you are truly my disciple” (John 8:31). By memorizing his word, we can truly abide in his word and his word can abide in us. Jesus memorized the Word of God, and we can be like him in doing the same.

4. They Are Eager To Talk About Jesus.
Have you ever met a devout New York Yankees fan that wasn't eager to talk about his or her team? When we truly love someone or something, we will talk about that person or thing at any opportunity. The truth is that our “Leader”, Jesus, the one we are following, gave us the task of not only telling people about him, but “making disciples” of people everywhere (Matt. 28:18). This should not only be natural for those who are in love with Jesus, but easier knowing that Christ promised to be with us when we are making disciples (Matt 18:20).

5. They Live Heavenly-Minded.
The mind of a Christ follower is regularly on eternity, and not their temporal life on this earth. They are “storing up treasures in Heaven” (Matt. 6:19-21), and are continually looking at this life through the lenses of the Gospel and eternity.

“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Col. 3:1-2)

There are many, many more characteristics of a Christ follower, but really if these five characteristics make up who we are, the rest will like be there as well. The more we love Jesus, pursue him, and memorize his Word, the more we will look like him. The more we look like Jesus, the less we will look like this world. Jesus did not blend in when he was here before, and he certainly would not if he were walking the earth today. Likewise, a Christ follower sticks out, looks different, because he or she looks an awful lot like Jesus.

We are thankful & blessed for what RGIII is doing in his professional career on & off the field. We pray that he sees a quick and full recovery in the name of Jesus, and will be out there again soon shining for Christ. We hope that you support him as well, and keep him & his family in your prayers.

Read the original blog post here

Get RGIII's 'Know Jesus Know Peace' shirt here.

Stay Alert and Pray

2014-09-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Let us join together and pray for this country on 911.

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

Because the threat of evil is a reality, let us be ready and stand firm against the schemes of the enemy by staying alert and praying. Prayer in faith is our strongest ally against the dark forces and municipalities. Therefore, let us be prepared, and let us pray, thanking the Lord always. Apply prayer to all of your needs, trusting that God really loves you!

See our selection of patriotic apparel here.

In His Grace,
Aurelio F. Barreto III, FOUNDER & CEO

Prayer Chain for 9/11

NOTW Behind The Scenes - Man Of God

2014-09-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

When I design, I pay attention to my surroundings, fashion, color trend, style, etc. I also think of people who are close to me, too. When I designed "MAN OF GOD" I was thinking of my husband, Willie. I was excited that we were going to have a dinner date, but most importantly I was thinking of the "MAN OF GOD" my Lord has blessed me with. The verse 1 Timothy 6:11 came to mind and I felt it summarizes my husband well. He tries to be righteous. He has a strong faith in God. He's so loving and gentle. He's such a good man and a great Man of God. I adore him. My big teddy bear.

See some of Patty's latest NOTW designs here.

Patty G.
Art Director at Not Of This World

Proverbs 31:30 Sweatshirt - Joelle Janigian for NOTW.com

2014-09-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

NOTW is more than just trendy clothing, we share God's Word!

Watch now to get the inside scoop on our Proverbs 31:30 sweatshirt for women, from faith and fashion blogger Joelle of MySundayDress.com. She will take you on a quick dive into the verse, as well as share her favorite styling tips for dressing up this sweatshirt!

"Whatever you did for one of the least of these"

2014-08-29T13:40:00.000-07:00

"Whatever..." no matter how much or how little, God gives us opportunities to serve Him as we serve others. Are we taking those opportunities like He wants us to? Watch NOTW sponsored band Seventh Day Slumber's experience from their unforgettable trip to Nicaragua.

Partner with Compassion International today

Matthew 25:31-46

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’

“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’

“He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’

“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

I Am #NotOfThisWorld - Joshua Michaels

2014-08-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Josh and Jenny were married on February 5th, 2011. 17 months later they welcomed their handsome son Flynn into the world.

7 months later, at 27 years old, Joshua Michaels was diagnosed with stage 3C testicular cancer. By the time he found out it had already metastasized to his abdomen, liver and lungs.

In March 2013 through June 2013 he underwent his first round of chemotherapy and in July he was considered to be in remission. On September 12, 2013 he underwent a 7 1/2 hour surgery to remove the dead cancer tumors that remained in his abdomen. On November 7th, Josh was re-diagnosed, and the new tumors in his abdomen were larger than the original tumors that he had removed just 2 months prior and the cancer continued to spread.

Josh continued with chemo and had radiation treatments in attempt to shrink a tumor on his spine. Additionally, Josh underwent 2 unsuccessful bone marrow transplants at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.

After his bone marrow transplants, his very aggressive form of cancer continued to spread throughout his body. Not giving up, Josh underwent 2 more rounds of chemo. Unfortunately, these last rounds were more than his body could handle.

On July 31, Josh was in the ICU when we received the news that a tumor has ruptured on his liver causing him to bleed internally. With his blood not clotting, he continued to bleed into his abdomen. Josh was given blood products but his condition was terminal. Josh was placed on hospice on August 6.

His faithful and loving wife Jenny has been by his side since day one. Sleeping in the hospital bed next to him mostly every night. She courageously juggled her full time job, raising their young son and managing her husband’s illness. Throughout their journey together, Jenny and Josh have kept their unwavering faith in God. Jenny has posted that God "has a divine purpose that we do not always understand or know why. Josh has shown me what true love is, faith even through life's storms, given me a beautiful son, and a reason for me to push research and awareness about testicular cancer. We know that everyone is keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. We love you all and we thank you for being such a big part of our lives. The amount of love that has been shown to Josh and our family is overwhelming and beautiful."

As always we thank God for each and every day that He gives us the miracle of having Josh here. God understands that we are selfish humans and want to keep him here but I remind everyone that our time on this earth is short no matter how long we may live but that our lives really start when we enter the kingdom of God".

Josh, Jenny and their families have been greatly blessed with an abundance of love, prayers and support from their loved ones, family and friends. All the visitors Josh has had over the past week has been a beautiful reminder that they are not alone on this final journey.

In support of Josh and his journey a few friends and family have tattooed the NOTW symbol. He got his tattoo over four years ago and never knew that he would reach so many with its message. Friends of the family have also made him a prayer wall for everyone to sign when they come to visit.

Joshua Michaels' Legacy Fund

Many have asked what they can do to help. Donations to this cause will help Jenny financially with lost wages, final arrangements for Josh, medical expenses and other miscellaneous expenses that may arise. Please donate what is on your heart and continue to pray for this beautiful family. Donations can be made here.

From Suicidal Depression to a Christian Tee Shirt Business

2014-08-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

Guest Blog by Andrea for Believe.com

Aurelio Barreto might be the owner of a multimillion dollar Christian apparel and jewelry company, Not of This World, but he's quick to remind Believe.com that clothing only goes so far. "It's the heart beating under the clothing that matters most," he says.

Barreto, who moved to the States from Cuba when he was seven, clearly wears his heart on his sleeve.

"I grew up with the American Dream," he gushes. "I decided to build a company, and it was successful. Really successful. But it only took me so far. When I was thirty seven, after having made millions, being married, and living the 'perfect' life, I wanted to end my life."

The reason for his desperation was simple. "I didn't have Jesus. I was empty," he shares.

Having suffered off and on with depression his whole life, it wasn't until he found himself in front of a school principal (one he had just given a donation to) that he got real for the very first time.

"This man wasn't interested in my money. He looked at me... really looked into my soul... and asked me, 'Aurelio, you don't know Jesus, do you?'"

Barreto admitted that he understood the story of Jesus, but didn't have a personal relationship with him. It was then the principal said, "Don't you want to get to know God on a personal level? Don't you want to know that you are loved unconditionally for who you are, not what you do?"

Barreto did want to know that. "From that point on, my life opened up completely. I wasn't the same since," he admits, his voice cracking with emotion.

Along with his heart, his whole way of doing business was transformed. "God told me to open up a brick and mortar store to sell tee shirts with Christian scripture on them. I thought that was crazy, but I did. 14 stores later, 14 years later, we are now a fully virtual store. It's crazy how God is revealing himself to me still."

Barreto is exceptionally vulnerable about his struggles, such as his admission about his struggles with depression. It's real. It's refreshing. "I eventually got medication," Barreto confesses. "I am not ashamed of it. I struggled a long time. Now I can be who I'm meant to be without the constant battle in my mind."

Barreto's transparency and openness about his reliance on Christ is no fake show to get business. Evangelism IS his business. "Clothes are what I sell, but they really are the gateway for something far more important - the Gospel of Jesus Christ," he says. "I look at it like this: If you're going to show the world who you are by how you dress, why not have you first impression be your heart? Your heart for the Lord?"

It is precisely this attitude that landed him a partnership with Believe.com. "People come to ChristianMingle (Believe's sister site) to meet someone," he says. "Why not consider wearing a tee shirt like this on a date? It truly says how you feel about your faith. And more importantly, it shows that your first relationship - the one with Jesus - is what is most important."

Some people might scoff that 'Only a poser would wear a Jesus tee shirt,' but Baretto respectfully disagrees. "I don't sell tee shirts to people to play at being Christian. I'm not going to win doubters over that way anyway. My goal is to get people who already love the Lord to share their faith... to wear something that will get someone to ask the tough questions: 'Why do you believe what you do?'... 'How can you be sure this Jesus is who He says he is?' "

His goal has worked. So far, since the company launched in 2001, he's brought over 18,000 souls to know God. Through his website, personal speaking events and on the street evangelizing, Not of this World is a rare company that really puts their money where their faith is. Check out some amazing testimonies here including Aurelio's own testimony.

Check out Not of This World's Store at Believe.com Here

Here at Believe.com, we're pretty darn excited to work so closely with this man of God. Check back frequently to see what's in store for you - literally. Here's the link to Aurelio's store on Believe.com. There's sure to be specials, and these items make great holiday gifts. But most important, feel free to share the good news of God through NOTW. It's the best gift you can give someone.

Read the original blog post here

Encourage someone suffering from depression with our 'Fear Ends Where Faith Begins' shirt.