VICTORY Call

LOVE LETTERS

2012-02-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

I am not, as anyone who knows me will attest, a techie-type person. I don't have a cell phone and I don't do texting, iphones and ipads, etc., etc. I am of the "old" school who loves to send and receive handwritten notes and letters - yes, even those one- or two-page newsy letters that we sometimes receive in our Christmas cards. I read them with interest and save them throughout the year so that when I get ready to sit down and send off a letter, I can re-read it and be reminded of the joys and sorrows my friends have been dealing with.

I guess some of this has to do with being trained as an English Major and teaching English in high school and college in my earlier years. I truly value the printed word and enjoy the various nuances of the language and sometimes marvel at how our language has changed over time. And then there is the abbreviation of so many words to accommodate our texting society, things like LOL. BTW, YKN, etc.

My boss recently gave me a copy of a sort of abbreviation dictionary so I could decipher what I was getting in my emails from time to time.

However, of all the letters I have ever received, it is the love letters that have meant the most to me and the ones that I have saved over the years. Letters from a dear friend during a long-time relationship, letters from my mom and dad during times of joy and sadness. But love letters nonetheless - filled with expressions of such deep caring that reading them again after many years still brings both smiles and tears.

God's love letter to us, His Holy Word, elicits the same response. When we read His love letter to us we are reminded that "we love Him because He first loved us" (I John 4:19). Not that everything that comes into our lives is always joyous - we all know that isn't the case. But we know that because of His great love for us, everything that comes into our lives will be for our ultimate good and that is what allows us to smile and have great joy even in the midst of tears. And, unlike the writers of the love letters in my own life who are now gone, God never departs, never goes away without any way for me to "get in touch" with Him. He is always as close as picking up my Bible and reading how great is His love for me.

This is the month that we celebrate human love during Valentine's Day and the days surrounding it. But as you wait for that card or letter or gift to come in the mail (or be sent to you via Facebook) remember that God's love letter to you is as close as opening His Word and being reminded that His great gift - Jesus' sacrifice on the cross - is the greatest expression of love that the world will ever know.

Lynn Randall

Lynn Randall is the Director of Human Resources at America's KESWICK. She is active in her church and is a gifted planner and organizer. She has a real heart for people as evidenced by her care, concern and practical encouragement.

Praying Through

2012-02-13T00:48:00.000-05:00

Today I need an extra measure of faith, don't you? I read from Matthew 15 and I can relate to the Canaanite women who found Jesus and brought to Him her most urgent need. She comes with a request for her demon-possessed daughter to be healed. Verse 23 says, "But He answered her not a word." I want to stop here because I know we all have an urgent need that has been presented to the Lord. I also believe we all have experienced God's silence. Warren Wiersbe's NT commentary explains that Jesus is not being cruel but that Jesus is building up the woman's faith. I would venture that you and I don't take times like these as faith-building exercises but rather get angry, give up or assume the silence means "no." Simply, we are quick to lose faith.

As we read on, the example of this mother grieving her daughter's situation continues despite the disciples' apparent desire to dismiss her. She continued through the silence and the obstacles that stood in her way to again simply plead for her daughter's restoration. "Lord, help me!" Let's note that Jesus inclines His ear to our simple cries of help. Not that He didn't hear her the first time, but this seemingly small act of faith and worship got a response. She was persistent. She knew that Jesus had the answer. She didn't quit.

I have been reading "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson, a wonderful book on prayer. Currently, I am reading the chapter called "Long and Boring." Here a few of my highlighted passages from this chapter.

"Praying through is long and boring, but it is the price you pay for miracles."

"Drawing prayer circles often feels like a long and boring process, and it can be frustrating when you feel like you've been circling forever. You start to wonder if God really hears; if God really cares. Sometimes His silence is deafening. We circle the cancer. We circle the children. We circle the dream. But it doesn't seem to be making a difference. What do you do? My advice: Stop, drop and pray. Keep circling. Circle for seventy years if you have to! What else are you going to do? Where else are you going to turn? What other options do you have? Pray through."

"We live in a culture that overvalues fifteen minutes of fame and undervalues lifelong faithfulness. Maybe we have it backward. Just as our greatest successes often come on the heels of our greatest failures; our greatest answers often come on the heels of our longest and most boring prayers. But if you pray long and boring prayers, your life will be anything but boring. Your life will turn into the spiritual adventure it was destined to be. It won't always get you where you want to go, but it will get you through."

I love a little saying I saw awhile back - "I'd give up chocolate but I ain't no quitter!" Today let's not give up on our long and boring prayers. Let's not be quitters. Let's have the faith to know that the results of our persistent prayers are miracles!

Blessings,
Kathy Withers

Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.

You Snooze, You Lose

2012-02-10T00:34:00.000-05:00

Lately, the Lord has been impressing upon my Spirit the following words from His Word: awake, aware, watchful.

"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." I Peter 5:8

"...be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." Ephesians 6:18

"...be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." I Peter 4:7

"We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away." Hebrews 2:1

When we are in the midst of a trial, we are ready, prepared, with spiritual weapons in hand, because we know that we are in a battle. Our time with the Lord in His Word, in prayer, in worship, and our fellowship with other believers is our lifeline; we know how very much we need Him.

But when life is calm, peaceful, comfortable -- are we still seeking Him with the same urgency? Or do we slowly become complacent, apathetic, unaware, sleepy? The Lord has been teaching me that whether I am in a battle, or enjoying a time of peace, He needs to remain my first priority. I need to always remain alert, clear- minded, self-controlled, paying careful attention, so that I will not inadvertently become easy prey for the enemy.

I don't know about you, but I certainly don't want to be blind-sided by the enemy. I need to always remember that I need the Lord desperately EVERY day -- good days, bad days, in between days. I need Him for my every breath. I need to have daily, desperate dependence on God. When I lose that, I am on very shaky ground, and there becomes a very strong possibility that God will allow something difficult in my life to remind me just how much I need Him.

Sisters, join me in keeping Christ of first importance. Let's stay awake, alert, aware, and if we see a brother or sister in Christ snoozing, maybe it's time, with grace, to give them a little wake-up call. And let's be ready to receive and respond well to a wake-up call that we may be in need of.

Stacey Poplawski
WOC Graduate

"The light makes all the difference"

2012-02-09T00:31:00.000-05:00

Last week, Robert and I were attending a Sunday school class in an old church building with beautiful stained glass windows. It was a crisp sunny morning and the windows were beautiful. We marveled at the craftsmanship, the details in the glass, and the vibrant colors. When the class was over we walked outside and looked up at those same windows. They were dull and lifeless, nothing to comment about. I said to Robert, "The light makes all the difference."

So it is with our lives. What makes us beautiful, different from everyone else is the light of Christ shining in us that allows people to see the beautiful intricacies: all that is good and right and true of who God, the Artist/Creator, made us to be. If Christ is in us, we have access to the power to turn on the lights, but if we don't draw on the power, flip the switch, open our Bibles, talk to our Father, we remain dark and lifeless. Turn the lights on in your life; allow Christ to reflect in you.

Ephesians 5:8,9 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light; (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true). ESV

Joyce Hayes
Artist-in-residence at America's Keswick

What is in a Name?

2012-02-08T00:28:00.000-05:00

I am not a "Kathleen" or a "Katherine." I was named after my grandmother whose name was "Kate." I had always wanted to be called "Kate" but there are few who call me by that name. "Kathy" just always seemed common and boring. Although "Kate" never really stuck as my nickname there are other names that I have been called: names that have stuck because they are painful. Childhood names were plunged into my heart and have taken a long time for me to put into perspective.

In Genesis 32:24 Jacob's name is changed to Israel. Jacob, which means "heel," is derived from a verb meaning "trip up, "or "over reach." We know that Jacob was a deceiver and with the help of his Mom he was able to get his brother's birthright. When Jacob finds himself in a wrestling match with the Lord he is asked, "What is your name?" It is noted in Warren Wiersbe's commentary that the last time Jacob had been asked that question he told a lie to his father and claimed to be Esau. At the end of the wrestling match the Lord gives Jacob a new name. He is to be called Israel.

I simply want us to remember that we are no longer the names that we were given or labeled before we came to know Christ. We've been told, "Sticks and stones can break our bones but names will never hurt us." Well, names do hurt us. But God has re-named us. Our identity is now found in Him. He doesn't lie. He doesn't give us names that are hurtful. He uses names such as forgiven, beloved, My child, and many others. Names are important so as we read Scripture take note when you see a name change, a definition associated with a name, or when a name of God appears. It is apparent that names mean a lot to our God. He knows the names we have been called and He no longer wants us to live with them.

In Genesis 39:9-11 God once again appears to Jacob and reminds him of his name. Maybe you need to be reminded today that those "names and labels" are not who you are. For a great read on names and the importance they have in our lives I would recommend that you read "My Secret Name" by Kary Oberbrunner. This book was given to me and helped me to understand the effects of negative names that I was still wrestling with, and also helped me learn a name that was especially for me from God.

Well, I left out a small detail of the story of my name. For all the kidding I will receive, I will share it with you. When I asked my Mom why I couldn't have been named "Kate" after Grandma she informed me that "Kate" was Grandma's nickname but her real name was "Cornelia." So, I am okay with plain old "Kathy."

Blessings to you,
Plain Kathy with a "K" and a "Y" but Jesus calls me Accepted

Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.

Prayer for Today

2012-02-07T00:26:00.000-05:00

I recently came across this prayer that went perfectly with yesterday's Victory Call. Be encouraged.

In thy fellowship is fullness of joy,
Beneath thy smile is peace of conscience,
By thy side no fears disturb,
No apprehensions banish rest of mind,
With thee my heart shall bloom with fragrance;
Make me meet, through repentance, for thine indwelling.
Nothing exceeds thy power,
Nothing is too great for thee to do,
Nothing is too good for thee to give.
Infinite is thy might, boundless thy love,
Limitless thy grace, glorious thy saving name.
Let angels sing for sinners repenting, prodigals restored,
Backsliders reclaimed, Satan's captives released,
Blind eyes opened, broken hearts bound up,
The despondent cheered, the self-righteous stripped,
The formalist driven from a refuge of lies,
The ignorant enlightened,
And saints built up in their holy faith.
I ask great things of a great God.
The Valley of Vision (pg. 6)

Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.

God does nothing half-heartedly

2012-02-06T00:34:00.000-05:00

To see the generous nature of God we don't have to go any further than the very first chapter of the first book of the Bible. God created the heavens and the earth. He could have created it just large enough so that it would go as far as we could see. We can see about 1000 to 3000 stars on a clear night in this area but God created 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 stars (I'm not even sure how to say that). Earth is part of the Milky Way galaxy but it is one in an array of hundreds of billions of galaxies in the universe. God "is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think" (Eph 3:20). He is not a stingy God. His creation is simple evidence of his abundant generosity.

Think of the example in Matthew 14 when Jesus feeds the 5000 (plus women and children) with 5 loaves and 2 fish. When everyone had eaten and were satisfied there were 12 leftover full baskets. He did far more abundantly than was necessary. The Message paraphrase says, "God can do anything, you know - far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!"

The Salvation offered to us by Jesus Christ is a finished work, not half-hearted effort. "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7 - As forgiven children of God, saved and sealed for redemption, God cleanses us from all sin. On the cross, Jesus said, "It is finished" John 19:30. He did not say, "I've done my part - now they can work their way to heaven."

IF God creates a universe billions of times larger than we can see or imagine, how much more will HE make provision for your needs beyond what you imagine or think?
What difficulty are you facing today? God is not holding out on you. He desires to bless you beyond what you can imagine or think.

Is God enough for your problems? Are you believing and asking for great things from a Great God?

He desires to bless you beyond anything you know, not with material things but with Himself. Will you receive Him?

Blessings,
Diane

Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.

WAITING ON HIM

2012-02-03T00:06:00.000-05:00

Psalm 39:7 And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope is in thee.

Have you ever heard someone say, "Well, what are you waiting for?" It seems I have spent much of my life waiting...for what? Well, as a child, I was waiting to grow up, to go to college and to eventually get married.

After my marriage, I was waiting for children. Then, I was waiting for my children to grow up, graduate from high school, from college, and get married. Then I waited for them to have children and the cycle continues to go round and round. Now I'm waiting for my grandchildren to be married and have children.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the worry that occasionally would rear its ugly head along with the waiting. Then I read the verse that says, Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself (Psalm 37:7). This verse says I'm supposed to REST and WAIT patiently! Besides resting and waiting I'm not supposed to fret. Can you believe it? Is that even possible? Yes, I think it is.

Many times as I have been writing my prayers in my prayer journal, I have written Fret Not. It's as though the Lord is saying to me, "Don't worry, Marilyn. I've heard your request. I will supply your needs. Just WAIT on Me."

While you may be waiting for Mr. Right, a child, or a specific prayer to be answered, He is saying that very same thing to each of you.

Psalm 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself.

Marilyn Willett Heavilin

Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.

Blessing - Part 2

2012-02-02T00:02:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we talked about how important "blessing" is to God. If you are not experiencing the blessings God's Word promises then let's take another look at scripture. You see, blessings come when we learn to humble ourselves and obey His commands and walk in His ways.

Let's take a look at Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.

It would appear that blessing comes to those who meditate on His word and allow their lives to come into unity with His timing and His purposes. It is not a matter of saying the right prayer or going to the right church, or fasting or making a big donation to the right charity. Rather the Lord says we need to be careful who we seek counsel from. Are we going to someone who knows the Word and will lovingly tell us the truth? Does our life come into unity with choices that sinners would take rather than those who love the Lord? Do we like to point a finger at others rather than looking into our own heart? Do we delight in being a doer of the Word, which we read and mediate upon faithfully? Although we are not under the law as in the time before Christ, I believe we are called to the greater challenge and that is to choose to delight in growing in Christlikeness.

My dear sisters in Christ, may I challenge you and I? Are we among the many who give lip service to "believing in the Bible" but pay little attention to what the Bible says? Are we influenced more by traditions than an intimate relationship with our Savior? Do we read a chapter a day yet have no actual understanding of the passage we read? Are we seeking God as to how the passage we read may change our life?

My challenge to you and I this year is this: let's go deeper; let's go all the way to the blessing. One day at a time......let us not just read words, let us meditate upon the Word until God reveals the meaning for us personally. Let us thank God each day for moving us to a deeper richer relationship with Him.

My prayer is that you and I will accept this challenge and experience the fullness of Psalm 1. That we will walk in the fullness of the blessing described in Psalm 1 and be like that tree planted by rivers of water. Not just any water, but rather living water that will fill us and nourish us so that we will bear good fruit at just the right time. The fruitfulness of our lives will not wither and whatever we do will prosper.

It is time to advance......and be blessed.

Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate

Some material taken from: A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler Available through Glory of Zion, Inc., PO Box 1601, Denton, TX 76202 www.gloryofzion.org

Blessing - Part 1

2012-02-01T00:58:00.000-05:00

According to a book I read recently, A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler, the word "bless" or "blessing" is used in the scripture 474 times. That would surely indicate that blessing is important to the God we serve.

The first mention of blessing is found in the very first chapter of the Bible. Genesis 1:22 reads, God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth" (NAS). It would appear that God's idea of blessing is to release increase, prosperity and the multiplication of all that is good and pleasant in life.

Further into the scripture in Gen. 24:1 it tells us that God blessed Abraham "in all things". Yes, blessing appears to be significant to the God we serve.

I have always loved the blessing recorded in Deut. 6:24-26, The LORD bless you, and keep you; The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace. WOW!! Now that is surely a blessing!!

Why is it then that in this world our lives are filled with tough battles? The author of the book I am reading took me to the story of Joseph. Joseph was hated by his brothers, sold as a slave, falsely accused, and thrown in prison. Hardly what one could call a blessed life. But God.........you see the blessing of God actually interfered with the plans of men and the enemy of God's people. Under the power of blessing Joseph rises above each and every curse on his life. Divine appointments seem to just happen, supernatural connections are made, doors opened to a future he could not have fully imagined possible. In fact, Joseph saves the nation of his forefathers. He is in the exact right place, at the perfect time.

Dear one, you may be in the midst of an incredible battle of life but I tell you the truth, if you would meet with your God, walk humbly and obediently before Him, He will turn your mourning into dancing(Psalm 30:11). With all my heart I believe the Lord longs to bless you (Isaiah 30:18). Jesus came that you and I might have life (John 10:10).

Stay tuned.......part 2 is tomorrow.

Blessings,
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate

Some material taken from: A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler Available through Glory of Zion, Inc., PO Box 1601, Denton, TX 76202 www.gloryofzion.org

I Don't Believe It

2012-01-31T00:56:00.000-05:00

That's usually the problem. God gives us the assurance of something and then we waiver between faith and unbelief. When I read the following portion of scripture, something really upset me. It was verse 6... "And He marveled because of their (my) unbelief."

Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, "Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands! 3 Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?" So they were offended at Him.
4 But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house." 5 Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. 6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. Mark 6: 1-6 (NKJV)

Here's an example of what I've experienced at times and maybe you have too:
"Ok, Lord, so I know I heard you say this, and you've confirmed it to me today through this, but I still have doubts, could you send me a second confirmation? Great, got it. But still- what if I do that and it's not really you, maybe you haven't spoken this to me and it's just self-talk? I'm going to need another confirmation. Great, I got it. But Lord what if?" Sounds like I want to live risk-free. Or is it faith free?

Does anyone have a fleece handy?

I could just imagine Jesus shaking His head back and forth as He marvels at my unbelief. I guess you could say He just can't believe it.

"Dina...Dina...after all I've shown you, still you do not believe."

"Oh Lord, I don't want You to shake your head at my unbelief in any situation, after all the mighty works You've not only done in my life, but in the lives of those around me."

Those are the times that focusing on the past can give us the good shaking we need. Come on sister, look back, and remember the time God did ____________ and you thought, "Wow, Lord, You really did do just what You said You would. Why didn't I just trust You and believe?"

That's Him, same God. Faithful then, faithful now and faithful tomorrow.

So is your faith shaken or do you need a good shaking?

Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer

WINNING

2012-01-30T00:52:00.000-05:00

I recently read a comment by Patsy Clairmont, one of my favorite authors and a member of "The Porch" for those of you who are familiar with Women of Faith. It was in the context of something totally different, but she said at the end of a comment she was making that "The purpose of an argument is to resolve conflict not to win."

Winning - a very important concept to so many of us in this day and age. Our favorite athletic teams are only deemed successful if they win. Our politicians are all about winning. Businesses are successful if they "win" the most customers, or are able to corner a larger percent of their particular market than their competitors. Translate that "winning isn't everything, it's the ONLY thing" philosophy to us as individuals, and we get caught up so easily in the "I must win" scenario.

For me, the desire to be a winner all boils down to my pride. I want what I want - and am willing to argue you to death until you say, "OK, you win." And I got what I wanted. It isn't even totally a matter of "I'm right, you're wrong." If I can get you to blink, then I have gotten MY way - right or wrong.

But what does God have to say about pride (and believe me, He has a LOT to say about it)? The verses that always strike a chord with me are Proverbs 6:16-17, "These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination with Him: a proud look..." Now I don't know about you, but when God says He hates something, when God says something is an abomination to Him, I think it behooves me to sit up and pay closer attention. And while there are seven things listed that God hates, what is the number one thing on the list? "A proud look" or I have seen it translated as a "haughty spirit."

I have said if before - I struggle with pride. It seems as if I always have. And sometimes when I think I have it "under control," the Holy Spirit taps me on the shoulder, so to speak, and says, "Now aren't you proud that you have overcome your proud spirit." And I go, "duh," because I haven't beaten it back at all. It is still lurking just below (and sometimes not even just below) the surface of my actions or words waiting for me to rise up and proclaim how proud I am for saying or doing something instead of giving God the glory that He has enabled me to do it.

We live in a society which is all about recognition - having someone say we have done a good job or getting an award for having done something. But the ONLY One I want to hear say, "well done" is Jesus when I stand before Him to give an account of all of the things I have done with my life. Oh, I can bask in worldly recognition and get my prideful self all puffed up, but when I get to heaven, none of that will mean one thing. Unless what I have done I have done with the motive of glorifying God, doing HIS will and bringing the recognition to HIM, whatever I have done is meaningless in His eyes (or like "filthy rags" in Isa. 64:6).

So, once again, today, I am praying that Jesus Christ will infuse His humble Spirit into me and begin to make me into His own humble, and ultimately, glorious image.

Lynn Randall

Lynn Randall is the Director of Human Resources at America's KESWICK. She is active in her church and is a gifted planner and organizer. She has a real heart for people as evidenced by her care, concern and practical encouragement.

Valentine's Dinner Concert

2012-01-28T00:34:00.000-05:00

with Dick & Mel Tunney

Saturday, February 11, 2012, 6:30 PM

With all followers of Christ, the growth process is a lifetime journey designed to reflect His Light to a dark and dying world. Dick & Melodie Tunney continue to spend their adult life in the process, pressing towards the ultimate goal of reflecting and magnifying Christ’s light to all whose paths they cross from their public platform of ministry.

You’re invited for a romantic evening out! Not just for the two of you, but for the three of you!…A cord of three strands is not quickly broken (Ecc. 4:12). Jesus is never the third wheel but the cord that binds a couple together. We encourage you to invite HIM to be the unseen guest at your table. Fine food, the fellowship of other couples and amazing music that will minister to your heart and soul set the stage for themaking of a memory…

$20 per person includes dinner and concert.

Dinner begins at 6:30 PM, doors open at 6:00 PM

Advance reservations are required. Reserve Early! This event WiLL sell out!

Who would you Pick?

2012-01-27T00:31:00.000-05:00

"Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" asked the governor. "Barabbas," they answered.
"What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called Christ?" Pilate asked. They all answered, "Crucify him!"
"Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!"
When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood," he said. "It is your responsibility!" All the people answered, "Let his blood be on us and on our children!"
Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. (Matt. 27:21-26)

So, if you were in the crowd, what name would you yell? You probably want to believe that you would be different from everyone else and you would cry out "JESUS." Unfortunately, each one of us would have most likely joined in with the crowd and yelled "Barabbas" right along with the rest. At the beginning of that week everyone wanted Jesus, but things had changed.

Have things changed in your life? Did you at one time cry out for Jesus, but now He is being crowded out? Beth Moore states that "if we aren't worshipping God then we are worshipping something else."

What are you choosing to worship? Personal desires, Wants, Success, Money, Comfort, Family? Kathy Troccoli in her study on How to Live a Fulfilled Life presents the following thoughts:

In our affections, something else steals His place
In our addictions, something else holds His place
In our desires, something else fills His place
In our relationships, someone else takes His place

What or Who are you choosing to fill His place? Joshua challenged the people in Joshua 24:15 with the question - whom will you choose to serve? Both Joshua and the people picked to serve God. If we pick God, then we are also choosing to obey God and put away all other Idols (or things that take His place). "Then put away the foreign gods that are among you, and incline your heart to the Lord, the God of Israel" (Joshua 24:23).

If you have chosen to pick Jesus - You Choose God - You have chosen Life! (Read Deut. 30: 15-20)

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you" (James 4:8).
When we draw near (pick) to God, He will draw near to us. God requires that we exercise our desire toward Him first and He will embrace any believer no matter how long or to what extent we went away from Him. God stands ready to accept us with open arms. "The Lord is near to all who call upon Him" (Psalm 145:18).

Choose today to PICK JESUS!

Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor

CONSIDER THE DEADLINE

2012-01-26T00:29:00.000-05:00

I think something must have happened in my childhood to cause me to resist deadlines. I have been known to reject book contracts because they would add one more deadline to my life. My vote would go toward self-publishing because an author can set their own timeline.

I don't find the word 'deadline' in the Bible; however, as I look in scripture the word 'time' appears often, much to my dismay.

Gen 4:3 And in process of time it came to pass,

The word first appears in the fourth chapter of Genesis. (So soon?)

Do we really have to talk about deadlines so early in the year? I know, I know... I have already pointed out that Scripture spoke of 'time' early, too.

Apparently God dealt with deadlines, too.

Luke 9:51 And it came to pass, when the time was come....

Gal 4:4 But when the fullness of the time was come....

Apparently God has a plan that includes the right time.

I don't like to have to face deadlines, but even I must admit that there is one deadline that cannot be ignored.

Heb 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

We all have one deadline God will not allow us to ignore. But we have warning that the judgment day is coming and we CAN be ready.

Act 16:31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.

Marilyn Willett Heavilin

Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.

His Word

2012-01-25T00:24:00.001-05:00

I am watching over my word to perform it… Jeremiah 1:11

Unlike us, God means every word that He speaks. Not only does He mean it but He, and He alone has the power to make it so. “…not one word has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you. All have come to pass for you; not one of them has failed.”

He keeps His word. His Word has intention and purpose and He accomplishes every one, without fail.

Job said, “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”

Solomon said, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.”

Isaiah said, “The LORD of hosts has sworn: 'As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand … For the LORD of hosts has purposed, and who will annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back?'”

“declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done,
saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,' … I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it.”
“so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

All those words are a comfort as we stop to consider that His Word is forever firmly fixed in the heavens. BUT have we stopped to consider that God Himself watches over His word to perform it? To me, it speaks of the intimate connection God has with each of us. He has not sent out His Word and turned to other things; He is watching over it to perform it in and around our lives.

Praise be to God that His Word is true, powerful, purposeful and certain.

Blessings,
Diane

1 Joshua 23:14
2 Job 42:2
3 Proverbs 19:21
4 Isaiah 14:24,27
5 Isaiah 46:10-11
6 Isaiah 55:11
7 Psalm 119:89

Disconnected

2012-01-24T00:22:00.000-05:00

There are two things I am constantly misplacing or forgetting. First are my keys and second is my cell phone. I am sure that I keep my neighbors quite amused. I live on a dead-end street and by time I get to the corner each morning, without fail, I have forgotten something. Obviously, not my keys if I am at the corner! But many times I end up backing down the street to retrieve my phone. It usually takes me no time at all to realize that I am not connected. Today, however, I got all the way to work without my phone. There was no going back so I am spending my day "disconnected." No emails, no calls, no texts.

I have to ask myself, "Do I miss being 'disconnected' from Jesus as quickly as I do my cell phone?" If I get a nudge from the Holy Spirit do I answer the call or do I ignore it? Yet the beeps, kurplunks and chimes of our cell phones get immediate attention. How much time can go by before I really miss connecting with God and hearing from Him?

How easy it is to be connected to the wrong things. Not that cell phones are bad or wrong but when do we cross a line to stay connected to technology while we forfeit what we need most? We have all heard about how we need to keep plugged into the source, which is the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The old part of that is we forget what an electrical line looks like. One end is securely in place while the wire stretches out to the other end with a plug that has two or three prongs that fit into another source. (We remember these plugs when the computer isn't working, don't we?) It is still the same today. Regardless of how wireless we have become we must stay connected to the Source of our power. We know this to be true but do we miss being connected when we have moved away from the Source as quickly as we have moved away from our phones? Few of us can be anywhere and not make or receive a call. Yet we get into places where God's voice is muffled and sometimes barely audible. Do we miss hearing Him as much as we miss hearing from all our other contacts?

"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me" (John 15:4).

Kathy Withers

Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.

Resolve to be Like Christ

2012-01-23T00:17:00.000-05:00

"And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them" (Ezekiel 36: 27).

Entering into the New Year I begin to take into account of certain goals I like to achieve this year. I must set aim and become resolute to carry out my goals. Of course I like them to be simple to achieve. I realize realistically I need help to accomplish the goals I decide to obtain. I mull over and question myself, am I doing everything I need to maintain my health? I have to start an exercise plan that is simple to attain, and then work my way to maintain my workout. This leads me to realize my eating habits are not good: no more cookies with my tea or potato chips in the afternoon and stop picking up a Hershey bar every day. I have picked the Hershey with almonds and have convinced myself it's healthy, humbug. I have to remember to take my vitamins, to ensure my body has the proper nutrients to be healthy.

However, I start to analyze what really takes precedence is my spiritual health. I ought to be praying more and take time to listen to the Father as I pray. My Father will lead me and guide me into the best path. "For such is God, Our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death" (Psalm 48:14).

As I memorize scripture my mind is being challenged and renewed spiritually. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2).

My heart must be exercised and guarded from evil. "With all my heart I have sought Thee; Do not let me wander from Thy commandments. Thy word I have treasured in my heart that I may not sin against thee" (Psalm 119:10-11).

I need to become skilled at and resolve to be Christ-like, acquaint myself by reading the Bible on a more intimate level. "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" (Philippians 2:2-4).

As I walk with My Lord, I can be confident He will help me to achieve the goals, My God wants me to accomplish. "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" (Colossians 2:6).

Glory to God!

Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate

First Things First

2012-01-20T00:24:00.000-05:00

"Seek first the Kingdom of God..." Matt 6:33

OK, so I'll join the others that hit on the idea that this is a new year - will it also be a new you? Most of us contemplate resolutions; most of us never keep them. I am convinced this year that there is only one resolution that we as Christians should make or consider. That is the resolution to make First things First, or put simply to put our Faith development first and foremost in our lives. If you do that, then scripture promises that everything else will fall into place.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart ...in all your ways acknowledge him, and HE will direct your path" Proverbs 3:5-6. Simply stated again - it is time to surrender to His will and His ways. If we do that - all the puzzle pieces of our life will fit together. Remember God's plans for us are good, not harmful (Jeremiah 29:11).

Why do we as Christians struggle so with this? If you went to any 12-step group - do you know what the first thing they tell you that you must do? Surrender to God... Now, I'm not going to get into a discussion about what God they are really about, but the point is that they know we need to put something in first place besides ourselves. As Christians we know what that TRUE something is: GOD. Stephen Artherburn and David Stoop collaborated on a book on the keys to spiritual renewal.

Key number #1 - SURRENDER.
What is surrender? Webster defines it this way: "to yield to the power, control, or possession of another...; to give oneself over to something (an influence)." We surrender each day. We yield to peer pressure, temptation, the opinions of others, etc... Surrender like that does not lead to renewal - it leads to destruction and defeat. Godly surrender or putting Him first in our life, seeking His will before our will, getting ourselves and others off the throne and putting God on the throne - that is the surrender we need to resolve to this year in our lives.

2 Peter 1:3-4 tells us what our lives can be like when we resolve to make Him first. "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."

Are you ready this year to escape the world and live in His promises? Then surrender your will and put Him first. Everything I read and have experienced tells me that if we do... then 2012 will be the year that exceeds our plans and expectations.

Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor

Dream Big, Live Small

2012-01-19T00:22:00.000-05:00

I've been reading a book lately that encourages the reader to dream big. To ask God for and pray for things that only He can accomplish in our lives. And I've seen God do big things in my life in recent days, but right now I can't really think of anything big to pray for.

So I just opened up a blog that I frequently read and the writer was talking about her New Year's resolutions. She usually makes big, grand ones - like saving the world. But this year she felt God was telling her to think small, and that just didn't seem fun, or challenging - boring, really. Until she realized that what is planted small, and fed and watered and nurtured day by day, can grow into something big, something wonderful, something God-sized.

It reminded me of the verse, And he said to him, 'Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities' (Luke 19:17). God requires us to be faithful in the small things before we can do big things. And very often, it's the accumulation of the small, daily things that end up being something big.

And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, (Deut. 10:12).

He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)

Sometimes God does ask big things of us. And sometimes He takes our big dreams and makes them become realities. But sometimes all He asks of us is that we be faithful in the everyday, the small, the routine, the boring.

So until He gives me another big dream, I want to be faithful in what He has given me to do today.

Ruth

Ruth Schmidt is on full-time staff at America's Keswick, and grateful to be a daughter of the King.

Tarry a Moment

2012-01-18T00:21:00.000-05:00

Lord, my prayer this morning as I opened Your word was, "Lord, prepare my heart to spend time with You as I tarry a moment with You."

As soon as I said it I realized the foolishness of that prayer - how can I tarry a moment? It sounds so contradictory; to tarry takes more than a moment.

Isn't that what characterizes my morning times? A moment! So often, I take but a moment, a brief time to read a chapter or two before I'm racing off to the next thing.

Tarry sounds so wonderful, so spiritual, as I envision Mary sitting at Your feet soaking in Your every word - basking in Your presence. But honestly, that does not describe my mornings with You.

How about you? Do you tarry with the Lord during your times with Him? How can we say we love the Lord if we are so quick to move on to the next thing? If we have a friend or spouse that gives us a moment here and a moment there, quickly moving on to their busy lives, we would wonder how genuine their love for us is. Am I right?

Lord, I pray that I would want, even yearn, to tarry in Your presence - morning by morning and that I would be compelled to action to make it so.

Blessings,
Diane

Love or Obey?

2012-01-17T00:18:00.000-05:00

Recently, I was part of a group discussion and in the course of it, this question was asked?

"What are the most important four letters in the Bible?"

Like me, your first thought probably went right to L-O-V-E. I dare say, it wouldn't be a stretch to assume that most, if not all, would come to that same conclusion. However, the answer given was not L-O-V-E; rather, in their thinking the correct response was O-B-E-Y.

When I heard this I had an instant reaction: Huh? What? I didn't understand at all. Some discussion followed where there was some attempt at persuading the individual to see love as the most important thing. And, in turn, there was an effort and turning our thinking away from love being the most important word.

Without a doubt, we ought to know and understand that obedience is critical in the life of every believer. But the question is, why obey? Apart from love what is obedience? What value is there in keeping the law without love as the driving force?

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails...and now abides faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." ~1 Corinthians 13:1-8;13

Without love: tongues, prophecy, faith, giving to the poor, giving one's body to be burned...it all fails. That must include obedience. For what is obedience; what is any of it without love?! Love spurs us on! Love compels us to want to obey our Creator, God and King!!

The morning after said discussion, I was on my way to work when the Apostle Paul came to mind. Here we have an excellent example of obedience as the primary thing. Paul so zealously obeyed the law that he went to great lengths to persecute Christians. Not until he met the Lord Jesus on the Damacus road was it revealed that he really didn't love God. He loved the Law.

It wasn't until his encounter with the One who is L-O-V-E personified, the One who is the reason to O-B-E-Y, that Paul motivated by LOVE Himself began to walk in true obedience out of a deep, abiding relationship with the Savior of his soul. Love which cost him his very life!

Selah
Stephanie

Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.

Covenant of Peace

2012-01-16T00:15:00.000-05:00

Isaiah 54:10 "For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you.

As I was reading Isaiah and came across this verse, I asked myself, "What is His covenant of peace?" A little investigating drew me to Ezekiel 34:25-31. "I will make with them a covenant of peace and banish wild beasts from the land, so that they may dwell securely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods. And I will make them and the places all around my hill a blessing, and I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing. And the trees of the field shall yield their fruit, and the earth shall yield its increase, and they shall be secure in their land. And they shall know that I am the LORD, when I break the bars of their yoke, and deliver them from the hand of those who enslaved them. They shall no more be a prey to the nations, nor shall the beasts of the land devour them. They shall dwell securely, and none shall make them afraid. And I will provide for them renowned plantations so that they shall no more be consumed with hunger in the land, and no longer suffer the reproach of the nations. And they shall know that I am the LORD their God with them, and that they, the house of Israel, are my people, declares the Lord GOD. And you are my sheep, human sheep of my pasture, and I am your God," declares the Lord GOD.

God promises peace to His children, His covenant of peace. With that promise comes security, blessing, belonging, freedom, protection, provision, satisfaction, acceptance, and peace. His promise. His peace.

In these times it is tempting to fret and worry about just about anything. But how would we stand apart from our unsaved neighbors if we fret and worry about the future? God promises that even if the mountains depart and hills are removed (such as we have seen with recent hurricanes, earthquakes and Tsunamis) HIS STEADFAST LOVE AND HIS COVENANT OF PEACE SHALL NOT BE REMOVED-NO MATTER WHAT.

You have HIS peace. Take God at His word. By faith, believe.

Blessings,
Diane

Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren. Cross references:

A. Ezekiel 34:25 : Ezekiel 37:26; Isa 54:10
B. Ezekiel 34:25 : Lev 26:6; Hos 2:18; Isa 35:9; Isa 11:6-9
C. Ezekiel 34:25 : Ezekiel 38:8, 14; 39:26
D. Ezekiel 34:26 : Gen 12:2; Isa 19:24; Zech 8:13
E. Ezekiel 34:26 : Lev 26:4; Ezekiel 22:24
F. Ezekiel 34:26 : Mal 3:10
G. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 36:30; Lev 26:4
H. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 34:25
I. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 6:7
J. Ezekiel 34:27 : Jer 30:8
K. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:22
L. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:25
M. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:25
N. Ezekiel 34:29 : Isa 60:21; 61:3
O. Ezekiel 34:29 : Ezekiel 36:29
P. Ezekiel 34:29 : Ezekiel 32:24
Q. Ezekiel 34:30 : Ezekiel 34:24
R. Ezekiel 34:31 : Psalm 74:1; 100:3; John 10:16

Cross references:
A. Isaiah 54:10 : Num 25:12; Ezek 34:25; 37:26; Mal 2:5

Reminders

2012-01-13T00:26:00.000-05:00

Recently I was privileged to graduate another wife from the Woman of Character program. Four months had passed since she walked into the Women's Ministry building fully aware that she was in need of help and change.

All credit for this work of grace goes to Abba Father who faithfully worked in her a greater desire to be in His Word and to be a godly wife, a woman of character for the pleasure and glory of her Heavenly Husband!

A few of the things she shared which were very important reminders for her are also vital for the rest of us. Therefore, I decided to share them with you in this Victory Call. This is the reason we take time to write the VC in the first place: to encourage you to live in visible victory before the face of God.

Here are the truths she shared:

* "t is impossible for anyone to save himself. We are all saved by grace, through our faith in Jesus Christ.
* God desires that we rely on Him more than we rely on any other person or thing in our life.
* God keeps His promises, every single one.
* I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Philippians 4:13.
* The solution to addiction is not a method but rather a Savior.
* What comes out of our mouths is a reflection of the issues of our heart.
* God's anger is just and right, whereas, mine is not.
* Faith begins with the belief that my loving, heavenly Father is in control.
* A lifestyle that is truly free is one where we submit to Christ in every aspect of our lives.
* Anything we look to for comfort, love, or well-being other than Christ, draws us away from the one, true lover of our soul."1

Dear sisters, may you be reminded today of these simply truths, may I encourage you to also seek Him, who is the Lover of your soul! Seek His face only today as you continue to walk by faith and not by sight!

Stephanie

Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.

1 RA Hurst

Resolve to be Like Christ

2012-01-12T00:23:00.000-05:00

"And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them" Ezekiel 36: 27.

Entering into the New Year I begin to take into account on certain goals I like to achieve this year. I must set aim, become resolute to carry out my goals. Of course, I like them to be simple to achieve. I realize realistically I need help to accomplish the goals I decide to obtain. I mull over and question myself am I doing everything I need to maintain myself healthy. I have to start an exercise plan that is simple to attain, and then work my way to maintain my workout. This leads me to realize my eating habits are not good; no more cookies with my tea or potato chips in the afternoon; stop picking up a Hershey every day. I have picked the Hershey with almonds and have convinced myself it's healthy, humbug. I have to remember to take my vitamins, to ensure my body has the proper nutrients to be healthy.

However, I start to analyze what really takes precedence is my spiritual health. I ought to be praying more and take time to listen to the Father as I pray. My Father will lead me and guide me into the best path. "For such is God, Our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death" Psalms 48:14.

As I memorize scripture my mind is being challenged and renewed spiritually. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" Romans 12:2. My heart must be exercised and guarded from evil. "With all my heart I have sought Thee; Do not let me wander from Thy commandments. Thy word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against thee" Psalm 119:10-11. I need to become skilled at and resolve to be Christ-like, acquaint myself by reading the Bible on a more intimate level. "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you, regard one another as more important than himself, do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" Philippians 2: 2-4.

As I walk with My Lord, I can be confident He will help me to achieve the goals, My God wants me to accomplish. "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" Colossians 2:6.

Glory to God!

Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate