I believe that the greatest battle that takes place in human beings is the war between our ears, in our minds. TV, secular music, and Hollywood movies frequently refer to heaven and hell, good and evil, and light and dark.

However, anything that is Satanically inspired is always perverted and twisted. Lying wonders that do not line up with the Bible are coming at people from all directions. When individuals do not know or believe the Word of God, or they are not obedient to God’s law, confusion about God takes place.

The goal of the kingdom of darkness is “to steal, and to kill, and to destroy”. (See John 10:10.) We are the only ones who can control what we watch, hear, feel, taste, and think. If we have a negative attitude and speak words of unbelief, we will become depressed.

Use the “Sword of the Spirit”, (God’s Word) to conquer fear, a destructive tongue, insecurity, and condemnation. If you are not practicing sin, and you have accepted Jesus as Lord, then God has forgiven your sins - to be remembered no more. Every hidden battle and besetting sin can be conquered.

James 5:16 tells us to confess our faults and pray. There is liberty in confession, but many hide behind their “holier than thou” image!

Pay attention to your thoughts, and ask God to reveal strongholds in your mind. It is time to get set free and walk in the joy, liberty, and peace that is available to all who believe!

NEWS FROM ISRAEL AND AROUND THE WORLD

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Red Cross, Red Crescent, & Red Diamond

Source: Daily Alert 12/08 & 09/05

In December, 2005, after almost sixty years of rejection, Israel was allowed to join the International Red Cross. However, Israel was not allowed to use the Red Star of David symbol. The Red Cross approved a neutral symbol - a diamond-shaped red crystal on a white background.

CLA PRAISE REPORTS!

Source: CLA Email Alert, CLA, P.O. Box 4010,

Seminole, FL 33775, (727) 399-8300

A school in Virginia public school is revising its policy on student literature distribution, which will now permit Christian kids to freely pass out Gospel tracts! Thank God for the faithful stand of a young Christian girl who maintained a Godly testimony, despite being suspended unjustly for doing nothing wrong.

CONSENT LAW

Source: AFA Journal, NOV/DEC 2005

An informed consent law in Minnesota has proved to be effective in decreasing abortion rates. This law, Women’s Right to Know, provides complete information and mandates a waiting period before abortion. Statistics show that in 2004, 2000 women decided not to have an abortion after receiving such information.

High Tech Photos-Ran Dagoni (Globes) Daily Alert, 12/27/05

Since April 2005 Google has offered satellite photographs of all locations in the world, causing fear of greater exposure to terrorists.

Assisted Suicide became legal in Oregon in January, 2006, because of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Source: CLA Email Alert, 01/17/06

TIRED OF PORN?

Source: www.afa.net,

American Family Association, P. O. Drawer 2440, Tupelo,

MS 38803, (1-662-844-5036)

and (afajournal.org)

"TV viewers now have a quick and easy way to file a complaint with the FCC concerning obscene, indecent, and profane content on television and radio. Simply click the television graphic on the top left hand side of the website at www.afa.net. There is no charge, and filing your complaint takes only a few minutes."

FCC also has their own new web page www.fcc.gov/eb/oip that helps people file complaints about indecent TV programming.

WORLDVIEW & TRUTH

by Sharon Cromwell, LHF newsletter staff

For the full article by Rusty Benson, AFA JOURNAL

NOV/DEC, “WHAT TRUTH IS & WHY IT MATTERS”

contact www.afajournal.org or American Family Association,

P.O. Drawer 2440, Tupelo, MS 38803

The term “worldview” was popularized by Francis Schaeffer, a preacher from Switzerland. At a fellowship he founded there, Nancy Pearcey found “Christianity as the final truth of reality and, therefore relevant to all areas of life,” Rusty Benson (a writer for AFA Journal) says.

Pearcey states that there is a negative view among believers that, “Christianity is only a set of private beliefs rather than objective truth,” which causes Christianity to be publicly ineffective. Pearcey wanted to know, “What is truth?” She says, “Discovering that Christianity is an entire worldview was crucial in my own conversion.”

We need a Biblical worldview on issues facing our generation! The devil masterminds the statement, “Leave your faith behind when you enter . . . here.” Pearcey calls this “divided mentality” the “sacred/secular split”. Why would a Christian give in to pressure from others to SEPARATE himself or herself, even for a moment, from God?

Pearcey says, “If we do not teach our children to apply Christian worldview principles . . . to politics, economics, science, and the arts – then they will almost inevitably absorb a non- biblical view in these areas.”

Pearcey is critical of Christians who are anti-intellectual and anti-doctrinal. She boldly states, “If we do not develop a Christian worldview, then we have no distinctive voice in the culture.”

In developing a Christian worldview, Pearcey suggests that we ask three questions:

(1) How was it originally created? What was its original purpose?

(2) How has it been distorted by sin, infiltrated by false worldviews?

(3) How can we be a redemptive force to bring it back under the Lordship of Christ?

Christianity is truth. Jesus is the truth, and God is the final authority. Base all your “views” on His Word!

SOME FACTS

by Sharon Cromwell, LHF newsletter staffSource: Jerusalem Prayer Team, P.O. Box 210489,

Bedford, TX 76095-7489, (817) 268-1228 & Daily Alert, 01/02/05

FACT: Hatred of Jews caused the death of six million people in the Holocaust.

FACT: In 1971, former Nazi officer, Kurt Walheim was elected Secretary General of the United Nations. In 1975, the UN Committee on Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People was established. While acts of terror against Israel are ignored, they say Jews are the cause of Arab suffering.

FACT: The events of 9/11 happened after the United States and Israel walked out of the World Conference on Racism (August 31, 2001), because of the abusive criticism of the Jewish people.

Currently, horrific lies are being told on the Israeli people. In his newsletter, Jerusalem Prayer Team, Michael D. Evans says, “There are those waiting in the wings, spurred on by the very demons of hell, fueled by a hatred that knows no bounds, and who will stop at nothing to annihilate the Jewish people.”

Evans also says, “I sense an urgency as never before! I believe that Satan is preparing to unleash an assault the likes of which we cannot imagine, but I know that through prayer and intercession, heaven can cancel any Satanic assignment.”

Genesis 12:3 says, “And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”

RECENT FACTS: The Shin Bet security service of Israel reports that the Palestinians launched 2,990 terror attacks against Israeli targets in 2005 under a supposed “truce”! They say that after Israel withdrew from Gaza, terrorists smuggled heaps of explosives and weaponry into Gaza from Egypt. Israel’s Military Intelligence's main message is that 2006 may take the form of escalation and deterioration. Pray for Israel!

YOUR...

Author Unknown

Your thoughts

can become

WORDS.

Your words can

turn into

ACTIONS.

Your actions

can become

HABITS.

Then your habits DO become your

CHARACTER.

Watch your character, for it determines your

DESTINATION!

MARCH

TESTIMONY OF HEALING AT LHF

Submitted by Valene Pittman, who attends LHF

Sunday, March 19, 2006, Brother Sam Bowles (associate pastor of LHF) brought us a message titled, “Building Back Your Altar”. He said that the true altar lies within us. He said we have to work at it to get to the place where God wants us, and if we want revival we have to pray!

After the preaching he asked if anyone needed prayer. I stood in for prayer for my daughter-in-law, Shanna. The doctor told her she had blockages in her arteries on both sides of her neck, caused by a disease called Spenosis.

Brother Sam prayed, and then he told me that when I saw her, to lay hands on her neck and say, “You are healed in the name of Jesus.”

When I left church that day, my husband and I met Shanna and her family at a restaurant to eat. I went to her and said, “My church believes we can “stand in” for others who need prayer. I stood in for you this morning!” Then I put my hands on her neck and said, “You are healed in the name of Jesus.”

The next day I talked to her on the phone. She had been back to the doctor. He said that she still had the disease, but there were no blockages. The next test she took proved she didn’t even have the disease! Praise the Lord! Thank you, Jesus. Ain’t God good!!!

Biblical vs. Secular Humanist

by Sharon Cromwell

Source: Tim Wildmon, AFA President, AFA Journal (www.afa.net)

Tim Wildmon says, “I have to wonder – if you do not believe in absolute moral standards, what’s the problem with hurting someone?”

Those who hold a Biblical worldview do not promote death to human life at any age. However, an unborn baby has no value to those who hold a secular humanist worldview (the idea that man is his own god). They say the individual is the moral authority.

Wildman says the unnatural and sinful behavior celebrated by homosexuals is evil by the standards of a Biblical worldview. He says, “From a secular humanist point of view, anything a person does sexually is fine as long as he does not hurt anyone else.” However, God clearly defines these things as sin in His Word.

God is the final authority!

FREEDOM OF THE PRESS

by Sharon Cromwell

Source: Daily Alert, www.dailyalert.org

In the U. S. news recently, street protests in France were called “Muslim riots”. Suddenly the banner was changed to read “civil riots". A billionaire Saudi Prince has shares in the U.S. Fox television network….

There were Muslim protests after Denmark's leading daily newspaper published cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed! The newspaper has received death threats, and two of its cartoonists have been forced into hiding. Islamic groups warned all Scandinavians to get out of Gaza. Norway’s Foreign Minister urged apologies for the caricatures, but a majority of Danes gave counter-criticism that Muslim countries should respect freedom of expression!

However, the Arab and Muslim press is full of hateful anti-Jewish caricature.

Islam proves aggressive intent when they claim the right to control the whole world, and prohibit our freedom of conscience. The resulting riots, death threats, kidnappings, and flag-burnings illustrate the fascist intolerance of radical Islam.

If not bravely defended, they will silence our words and ideas with the intolerance of sharia.

INJUSTICE

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

One of the tenets of the atheistic and Communistic official church of China is: Economic goals take priority over religious activities.

The Supreme Court of the U.S. recently ruled that our government may seize the home, small business, church, or other private property of one citizen and transfer it to another private citizen if the transfer boosts the community’s economic development or increases its tax base.

Where are we headed? Christians need to get a hold of God

POWER TO TOUCH

Author Unknown

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.

Embrace ALL equally.

TOUCH THEM WITH

THE GOSPEL CONTROL OF OUR PORTS

Source: www.afa.net

Our American port operations in New York, New Jersey, Baltimore, New Orleans, Miami and Philadelphia have been, or soon will be, purchased by Dubai Ports World, a state-owned company in the United Arab Emirates, a firm that manages port facilities. Senator Tom Coburn of Oklahoma, who opposes this said, "Handing the keys to U.S. strategic ports to a regime that recognized the Taliban is not a sound next step in our war against terror."

You can ask President Bush to override the agreement and conduct a special investigation into this matter.

[ https://secure.afa.net/afa/afapetition/takeaction.asp?id=187]

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2

HOLY SPIRIT CHECKUP

by Gail Redman Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

Some go to the doctor for a routine checkup. The doctor then goes over the results of the tests. Our desire is to hear that everything is great. However, sometimes he finds something amiss. Transfer this to the spiritual realm. We can think we are just fine morally, and more than likely, we compare ourselves to others and think, “I’m just as good as they are.”

Just as a physician exposes our physical diseases, the Holy Spirit sees our inner most being, and exposes sins and heart conditions not pleasing to God.

As the Holy Spirit performs surgery on our hearts and minds, we experience pain. Our flesh cries out, “God, that sin has been hidden from others, and I really do not want to give it up.” Hanging on to sin keeps us in bondage. The power for deliverance is available when the Holy Spirit deals with our sin. Do not be stubborn and rebellious.

In the same way a physician wants to remove cancer from a diseased body, God wants to cleanse and sanctify us from all unrighteousness. Be sensitive to the holy Spirit and allow any bitterness, hate, anger, unforgiveness, depression, unbelief, murmuring, strife, and uncleanness to be removed by the touch of the Master.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and

just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us

from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

IT MATTERS!

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Source 1-Worldview Matters!-by Robert Ricciardelli Openheaven 9-29-05, IRN , Source 2-Robert Velarde, who serves as online editor for Focus on the Family

Robert Ricciardelli, the author of an article in IRN, says, “Worldview Matters! Speaking of the old hymn, "I'll Fly Away", Ricciardelli says, “This is the mindset many Christians have regarding this world and that is to fly the coop in one swift moment because it ain't looking too good down here.”

Many Christians have given up hope of influencing people and countries for God, but until the very end we are to be ambassadors for Christ.

Being saved by grace is a “. . . legal entry point into the dynamics of the Kingdom of God,” according to Ricciardelli. He says that without an “. . . applied Biblical worldview . . . believers leave God's earth to the world-system to manage its resources and control its people.” Then evangelism suffers. We MUST proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

To correctly discern truth and error we require a strong foundation in God’s Word.

Robert Velarde, an online editor for Focus on the Family, defines worldview: “A worldview is the filter we use, consciously or subconsciously, to interpret our world and what happens in it.”

Velarde says Christian Theism is a worldview, “. . . one that believes in the existence of a personal God who reveals Himself to us through the person of Jesus Christ, through the Bible, through creation (see Psalm 19:1 and Romans 1:20), and through our conscience (see Romans 2:13-15).”

Does God influence your worldview?

APRIL

APRIL NEWS INSIDE YOU?

Source: Daily Alert, 02/24/06

Itamar Willner, along with other researchers in Israel, have constructed a molecular computer that uses enzymes to perform calculations. He believes the enzyme-powered computers could be implanted inside you and used to release drugs for a specific person's metabolism.

REAL ARMOR!

Source: Daily Alert, & (PhysOrg.com), 12/13/05

ApNano, an Israeli company, recently tested a shock-resistant material that is five times stronger than steel and at least twice as strong as any impact-resistant material now in use as protective gear. It withstood shock pressures equivalent to dropping four diesel locomotives onto an area the size of one's fingernail!

***

Source: Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel, jsekulow@aclj.org, 03/14/06

American Center for Law and Justice

In Jesus’ Name—The ACLJ collected 200,000 petition signatures in opposition to the Air Force’s proposed restrictions on chaplains’ free speech rights. Subsequently, the Air Force has moved to protect the free speech rights of chaplains - enabling them to pray according to their faith (even “in Jesus’ name”).

R.I.C.O.—The Supreme Court has ruled unanimously in our favor in the R.I.C.O. Case. In an 8-0 opinion, the Court held that pro-life protests, including sit-ins and barricades, did not constitute a violation of the statute - originally designed to stop drug dealers and organized crime.

Abortion? Yes, Notify Parents—The Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States ruled unanimously, underscoring the fact that parents play a crucial role in the health and well-being of minor children, especially when an abortion is in question.

FAILURE

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Source: (01/23/06) article by Rick Warren, author of

“The Purpose-Driven Life”

In 2 Corinthians 12:9 Jesus says, “… My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness….”

We fail when we won’t get up and go again after we have fallen. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again….”

In his article, “Bouncing Back From Failure”, Rick Warren said, “If at first you don’t succeed, big deal! It’s usually the second, third or fourth time you actually get it right. You are never a failure until you give up. Remember, everybody fails.”

It is usually not an easy thing to bounce back, but God’s grace is ENOUGH. That means we will overcome when we depend on God to help us.

About failure Rick Warren says, “Big or small, it hasn’t changed God’s purpose for your life. Allow God to teach you, motivate and grow you through your failure. He still has a plan for your life and a place for you in this world.”

IT’S TOO LATE

by Gail Redman

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

To convince me there is no God, because He lives in my heart.

To persuade me that there is another way to God other than through the shed blood of Jesus, because no other path led me to God.

To debate with me over whether God is alive, because He has proven Himself over and over in my life.

To tell me the day of miracles is past, because I’ve experienced the healing virtue of Christ firsthand.

To convince me that tongues is of the devil, because I speak in tongues daily.

To debate with me which parts of the Bible really happened, because Scripture, when applied God’s way, always works.

To tell me the Devil can run my life, because the Bible tells me I’ve been given power over all the power of the enemy.

To convince me that confusion is a normal part of life, because God is not the author of confusion.

If you know Jesus and His Word, they have come too late to persuade you differently!

SHAME

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Note: Mike Bickle is the director of the International

House of Prayer of Kansas City

Romans 3:23 tells us, “For all have sinned. . . .” When people fail God, many run away from Him, instead of to Him! There is no excuse for sin (see Matthew 26:41 & 2 Corinthians 12:9). YET, we fail. Mike Bickle says, “And you will run in circles of frustration trying to get God's approval.”

Mike Bickle says, “If you can grasp how Jesus Christ feels about sincere believers who are spiritually immature, it will revolutionize your life. Yes, God hates sin. But there is a difference between spiritual immaturity and rebellion.” God sees the desire of your heart to live right, so don’t consider yourself a hopeless hypocrite!

Shame from failure and disobedience toward God makes you unsure of where you stand with Him. Repentance is the remedy and the recovery route! Tell God you really do love Him and that you are sorry. It breaks the bondage when Jesus covers you with His love, and His blood washes you clean!

CONDEMNATION

Quotes by Smith Wigglesworth (from The Complete Collection of His Life Teachings)

Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

No man that sins has power.

Sin makes a man weak—

takes away his

dignity and power.

With joy in the Holy Ghost—

filled with joy. It is God’s plan.

Heaven open.

No condemnation.

If you pray, you know

He hears.

Remember this: sin dethrones,

but purity strengthens.

Temptation is not sin,

but the devil is a liar and

tries to take away peace.

You must live

in the Word of God.

There is now no condemnation.

Who is he that can condemn you, Christ that died!

He won’t condemn you.

He died to love you.

Don’t condemn yourself.

1 John 1:7 says that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin!

FAST BREAK

by Sharon Cromwell,

newsletter staff

The angels told Lot to leave Sodom, and he hesitated.

Before things got hot, God’s mercy saved Lot.

And what about her? She’s a

salt pillar!

Ed Young says, “Before a

wipeout, God always provided a way out.

But when God

says move, you'd better move fast...and

don't look back!”

MESSAGE

from the Lord at LHF 09/01/04

Surely you are discouraged. Surely you sometimes feel cast down. Sometimes you feel like those mountains are going to defeat you, but I tell you the truth. I am still God. I am still Lord of all. I still give victory, but you must seek me. You must praise me. You must trust me, and you must know that I can deliver. You must encourage yourself in me, for in me you will find that joy, not that this world gives, but the joy that I give. If you are discouraged, I am the answer. If you are cast down, I am the answer. If there is a problem, I am the answer. I have always been and always will be the answer, and I do not fail!

MAY

A Chicken Laid Our Bibles

Source: www.undergroundusa.org

A man in Gansu, China taught his grandchildren about Christ for 15 years from fragments of 500 scripture verses he had memorized.

One Sunday as they were praying for more of God’s Word, a chicken came into their house, clucked, and then laid an egg! Not knowing where she came from, the grandfather tied some money to the leg of the chicken (to pay for the egg). They knew she would return to her owner.

Less than an hour later someone in the street yelled "Who tied money to my chicken,” and the grandfather replied without hesitation, "It was me."

Two men came into the house. One man said in a cultured voice, "I am a high ranking member of the Communist party in Beijing. I have never heard of such honesty in all my life. This is astonishing. I have just come from Beijing to visit my brother after being betrayed and deceived. I lost lots of money. My government desperately needs your spirit of scrupulous honesty. If only there were more like you in China. Tell me, what makes you so honest?"

The grandfather answered, "Jesus Christ." The Communist official then asked, "Can I do anything for you?" The grandfather boldly said, "We would like to find the sacred texts of Christ." The puzzled official asked if he meant a Bible. With staggering boldness the grandfather asked if he could help them get one.

The official smiled openly, and said he would see what he could do. After more months of praying, a young man brought them seven brand new Bibles. He was part of a network of house churches. One of their leaders was arrested in Beijing, and while he was in jail, he was visited by a high ranking public official who said, “If I let you go, will you promise to deliver a Bible to an old man and his family in Gansu?” The leader said he would. That's why they said, "A chicken laid our Bibles!"

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING

by Gail Redman

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

People are searching for something that will fill the void in their lives. Man is created in the image of God. God is a triune being – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Man is a triune being – body, soul, and spirit.

God expects us to care for our physical bodies. However, our society becomes off-balanced when we become obsessed with physical beauty. Many flock to plastic surgeons for physical makeovers, hoping this will bring happiness.

Our soul deals with our moral and emotional being. Some of the most widely prescribed drugs in the U. S. are for depression and anxiety. People who are unable to cope with every day life turn to many things trying to fill the emotional void.

The only sufficient covering for man’s sin is the shed blood of Jesus. When someone is not in right standing with God, there is a spiritual void. Many are looking for something to fill the emptiness that can only be filled by a personal relationship with Jesus. If you are one of these people, quit looking in all the wrong places and surrender your body, soul, and spirit to the one true God!

SETTING THE STAGE?

By Sharon Cromwell,

newsletter staff

Zola Levitt recently stated in a letter that,

“. . . leadership everywhere in this world is failing, including the UN and certainly in our own nation to some degree. And this phenomenon sets the stage for the Antichrist. Eventually the people of tottering European governments, etc., will look to this coming Prince of All to direct their fortunes, and take them out of their poverty, and protect them. . .

BIRD FLU

Source: Daily Alert

The deadly H5N1 strain of avian flu virus has killed almost 100 people worldwide. Israeli officials say there is no reason for people to stop eating poultry; the virus cannot be transmitted via cooked food.

1 Timothy 4:4-5 says, “For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.”

TOLERANCE

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Source: The Challenge of Tolerance by Brett Cane

The word ‘tolerance’ as used by some people today does not mean what it used to! Recently, many people have changed the way they think about things. Some even create their own set of “values”, instead of accepting God’s TRUTH as absolute! (See Romans 10:3.) Some even expect you to (in the name of love) agree with their wicked views!

In his article, The Challenge of Tolerance, Brett Cane explains the old and the new meanings of tolerance.

He says, “The new tolerance doesn’t respect a person’s rights; it says every person is right! The ‘new tolerance’ is actually the abuse of tolerance. It is opposite to real tolerance.”

Brett Cane says:

“traditional definition of tolerance: to recognize and respect other's beliefs, practices, etc, without necessarily agreeing or sympathizing with them. In other words, everyone has the right to his or her own opinion.

post-modern definition of tolerance: (in use today by many) - every individual's beliefs, values, lifestyle and truth claims are equally valid. In other words, all beliefs are equal. It demands praise and endorsement of that person's beliefs, values, and lifestyle.”

Unpopular statements are likely to be repressed and labeled “intolerant”! People want you to keep your convictions to yourself. Crane says, “Some will tell you that you are not practicing what you preach about Jesus and loving everyone. However, when you know someone is about to get hurt, you should warn and shield them, even if they are in disagreement with you.”

Jesus accepts us without agreeing with our sin. A woman condemned for adultery was brought to Him, and in John 8:11 Jesus said to her, “. . . Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.”

Ephesians 4:15 tells us to speak the truth in love! This is the Christian’s answer to the new intolerant - “tolerance”!

JUNE

FATHER WOUNDS

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff Source: article by Ted Roberts.

Ted Roberts is a former U.S. Marines pilot, pastor, and author.

Ted Roberts says he has seen many men who have struggled with a deep "father wound". Ted admits that it was hard for him to realize that his heavenly Father believed in him, after enduring seven stepfathers.

There are three things Ted says every son wants to hear from his father. Those three things are: “I believe in you, Son.” “I’m sorry.” “I love you.”

Ted says that the true focus of the parable found in Luke 15:11-31 is, “. . . the magnificent father who accepts the prodigal home.” He speaks of the graciousness of God and how, “. . . He will not reject and shame us when we end up in the pigpens of our own stupid choices.” Disobedience always has consequences, but God still loves us and wants us to return to Him.

A father who knows his heavenly Father will love and forgive just like HE does!

NEW DADDY

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff (true story)

Source: UpWords from Max Lucado, 03/29/06

A father bought a new bike for his 5-year-old daughter. Consequently, his 3-year-old daughter wanted one also.

He explained that she would get a bike when she was a bit older. She was upset, and then she just stared at him! When he told her that her daddy knew best she screamed so loud everyone in the store heard, “Then I want a new daddy!”

We know that God CAN, but He doesn’t always give us what we want. If we lean not to our own understanding and just trust in Him as we grow up in Christ, it will save us some regret and pain. Our heavenly Father loves us and has provided eternal life for us. Don’t reject Him!

SUPERNATURAL GOSPEL

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

You can’t be a Christian unless you believe God raised Jesus from the dead. Resurrection is supernatural! Christians are servants helping Christ keep others out of hell. We are only clean because Jesus washes us in His blood.

Fear of the “unknown” stops many from helping those who are devil possessed, but God can eliminate fear of the devil and the unknown!

God’s Word is your source of power and knowledge against all evil. Luke 10:19 promises power over all the power of the enemy!

Teenage Views and Behavior Regarding the Supernatural

Source: www.barna.org, The Barna Group, Ltd., 1957 Eastman Ave. Ste B, Ventura, California 93003. The Barna Group, Ltd. is a privately held, for-profit corporation that conducts primary research, produces audio, visual and print media, and facilitates the healthy development of leaders, children, families and Christian ministries. This research was co-sponsored by Mark Matlock of Wisdom Works Ministries. David Kinnaman is the author of the report. (edited) 01/23/06 (used with permission)

The Barna Group has a new nationwide study of teen’s media exposure to the supernatural. God’s people must respond Biblically to the spiritual needs of America’s youth.

* 3/4 of America’s youth (73%) have engaged in at least one type of psychic or witchcraft-related activity, beyond mere media exposure or horoscope usage

* More than 1/4 of teens have played a game featuring sorcery or witchcraft

* 1 out of 10 teens have participated in a séance

* 1 out of 12 have tried to cast a spell or mix a magic potion

* more than ¼ of teens have had their palm read (30%) or their fortune told (27%)

* 4 out of every 5 teens have read their horoscope before –“just for fun”

* seven million teens have encountered an angel, demon, or other supernatural being

* More than two million teens say they have communicated with a dead person (10%)

* Nearly two million youth claim they have psychic powers.

* 71% embrace the Christian view of God (the all-powerful, all-knowing, perfect creator of the world)

* 58% say that Satan is a real spiritual being and the enemy of God

The Vice President of The Barna Group explained that, “Teens . . . cut and paste supernatural experiences and perspectives from a variety of sources. . . .” The study says that teens are, “. . . motivated by their desire to find out what works for them and what feels right. This makes it difficult to minister to them, because most teens today do not process or interpret input in the same way adults do.”

Sadly, the research revealed that only one-fourth of churched teenagers remember any teaching at their church in the last year that helped to shape their views on the supernatural world!

Stressed, frustrated, or isolated teens are more likely to experiment with the supernatural. “Many teens try witchcraft or psychic activities based on a desire to control or influence their circumstances. They want power to cope with their feelings of vulnerability and insignificance,” the report says.

At least three fourths of American teens believe in the existence of an immaterial, spiritual world. Almost half think there are good and evil powers in the supernatural world, but one-fifth says there is no such thing as good versus evil!

THE ANSWER

Scriptural perspectives would help teens become wiser consumers of media. Church ministries need to address the supernatural Biblically and frequently. The researcher says it takes, “. . . patience, prayer and an intense focus on transformed lives rather than mere program attendance.”

Kinnaman stated that this is a generation “. . . in a state of spiritual turmoil. They long for personal meaning and they are comfortable with incredible technological and media-driven tools that would enable them to accomplish whatever spiritual goals they choose. But millions of teens are precariously close to simply shelving the Christian faith as irrelevant, uninspiring, and ‘just a phase’.”

He also says, “The supernatural world represents the epicenter of the spiritual struggle for their hearts and minds. When teenagers settle for cheap alternatives instead of choosing intimacy with God – and relying upon His care and His power – it can lead to years, even decades, of spiritual entrapment in their lives.”

Kennaman says the youth need to, “. . . stop tinkering with contemptible imitations of God’s power. . . .” They need to find the real thing - Jesus Christ

Ezekiel 22:26 lets us know that it is a godly leader’s responsibility to teach the difference between good and bad. Ezekiel 44:23 says, “And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.”

THE MAN OF SIN IS COMING

by Sharon Cromwell, Source: Daily Alert03/28/06, Levitt Letter – 04/2006, Daily Alert, 05/10/06, Ahmadinejad's Letter to President Bush – Editorial

FALSE MESSIAH

Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is a fervent believer in the imminent reappearance of the 12th Imam, Shi'ism's version of the Messiah. He has been reported as saying that the end of history is only two or three years away! This man believes that the Islamic revolution prepares for and hastens their messianic redemption, which they believe is preceded by worldwide upheaval and chaos. This 12^th Imam, “Mahdi”, is supposed to be a perfect human being who is supposed to lead the world to absolute peace.

This is the false counterpart to the return of Jesus Christ to the earth.

LETTER

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad sent a letter to President Bush saying:

“Those with insight can already hear the sounds of the shattering and fall of the ideology and thoughts of the liberal democratic systems. We increasingly see that people around the world are flocking toward a main focal point - that is the Almighty God....My question for you [Mr. Bush] is, 'Do you not want to join them?'”

The Bible speaks about the anti-Christ ruling the world in the end time. Is your faith in Jesus Christ?

THIS IS IT – REVIVAL IN PROGRESS!

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newslett

Joel 2:28-29 says, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.”

This is it! That promise which was spoken by the prophet Joel. God’s Spirit is being poured out on all flesh - all ages and all classes of people.

Signs and wonders always accompany an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Revival fire brings deliverance, restoration, joy, and peace, and it awakens the spiritually dead to life. God’s river of life flows where people love God and one another, where believers are in one mind and one accord, and where prayer and fasting has gone forth! Then people are saved, delivered, healed, and filled with the Holy Spirit.

We can choose to be a part of the latter day move of God, or we can separate ourselves from God and live in fear and torment. If God is silent in your life, you need to be born again or return to right relationship with God. Don’t delay the most important decision that you will ever make.

Accept Jesus as your Lord. Become involved in “revival now”!

JULY

INTEGRITY

by Sharon Cromwell

Source: J. Drew Conley, Ph.D., author of “Why Integrity Matters”

Webster’s Dictionary says INTEGRITY is “strict adherence to a standard of value or conduct, personal honesty . . . .”

Everybody needs integrity. Leaders without it will suffer and cause others to suffer. Because of the lack of integrity, a Christian can damage people’s view of God.

The devil and the world exert constant pressure to violate our integrity, and we are well aware of failure in others, but we need to realize that our own integrity can be compromised suddenly, or a little at a time, if we do not guard against it.

In Psalm 25:21 David prayed, “Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.” He did what was right, and expected God to take care of him. He was waiting in prayer for victory.

In Psalm 26:3 David said,

“. . . I have walked in thy truth.” Proverbs16:3 says, “Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

Jesus said in John 14:6, “. . . I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

If you want integrity, get the truth of God’s Word established in your heart!

NEWS FROM ISRAEL AND AROUND THE WORLD

Radical Muslims in Our Prison System

Daily Alert, 04/27/06 & (Weekly Standard)

Radical Muslim chaplains have a monopoly over Islamic religious activities in American prisons! Wahhabis serve as chaplains at all levels of incarceration.

England Afraid to Fly Its Own Flag

Source: Modi Kreitman (Ynet News) & Daily Alert 06/05/06

The extremist Islamic group al-Muhajiroun, warned that the red cross in the flag of England symbolized the "bloodthirsty crusaders" and the occupation of Muslims, thus causing some of the largest companies in England to order their workers not to wave their own flag. The NTL cable company, Heathrow airport in London, and the Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Agency have banned the flag in every form due to fear of Muslim reaction.

ANNIVERSARY

Daily Alert 605/06

There was a Salute to Israel parade in New York June 4, 2006, celebrating the Jewish state's 58^th anniversary !

OFFENSES WILL COME

by Gale Redman

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

As we interact with each other, we at times offend someone unintentionally. People sometimes offend us. Many times when we offend someone, we do not even know that we offended them. Sometimes, no matter what we do, we will make someone mad, because one person wants us to do one thing, and someone else wants us to do something different.

When I was unsaved, I was always trying to be a people pleaser. I learned that sometimes we are in hot water because of what we do or maybe don’t do. Other times we say the wrong words or should have spoken and didn’t. My goal now is to please God. I have found that it is much easier to please God than man. If we fall short, God forgives us.

As believers in Jesus Christ, when someone offends us it is essential that we forgive. Most offenses are so trivial, it is best to allow the hurt to roll or bounce off of our emotions. When we are easily offended, we open the door for Satan. This leads to unforgiveness or bitterness and can weaken relationships with others. Harboring resentment only hurts us. God help us to never intentionally offend and help us to forgive when someone wrongs us.

WHATEVER

by Sharon Cromwell, Source: Dennis E. Neville, Boundless Webzin

Saying “Whatever!” implies that you don’t have the time or desire to talk about it, the subject is not important to you, or you are indifferent to it, and you are impatient with the discussion.

Dennis Neville says, “When seeing a ship heading for the rocks and certain destruction, we’d rather avoid getting involved in something we might not be able to impact and that does not directly affect our lives. It was, after all, the captain of the ship who went off course and is responsible for his dilemma …. We dare not declare that he is wrong, as we

might be labeled and persecuted.” Neville says we watch a shipwreck, “. . . for a moment and then remember ourselves and turn away.” We say, “whatever” and go on.

God has called us to be a peculiar people, which means we will be different, not indifferent. Pray He will light a fire under you, take away your passiveness, and make you a live witness for Christ.

AUGUST

3 WEEKS

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff Source: Rabbi Eckstein (IFCJ) & dailyalert.org 07/13/06 - Israel's Next War Has Begun by Yossi Klein Halevi

July 13, 2006 equals the 17^th day of Tammuz on the Jewish calendar. In history on this day on two separate occasions invaders breached the walls of Jerusalem!

Three weeks later in both cases, the city was in enemy hands. The Holy Temple was also destroyed the first time by the Babylonians in 586 B.C., and the second by the Romans in 70 A.D.

“The Three Weeks” is from July 13 till August 3, which marks the solemn Jewish holiday of Tisha B’Av. Because of current events, Yossi Klein Halevi of Daily Alert says, “The next Middle East war - Israel against genocidal Islamism - has begun.”

Timur Goksel, a former UN spokesman who teaches at the American University of Beirut says. “You can't anymore claim it's an act of resistance. It's an act of war.”

Why should we be concerned? Genesis 12:3 says, “And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” That promise is to Abraham and his descendents.

Romans 2:29 says, “But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.”

If we do not stand with Israel against her enemies, God will curse us. There is nowhere to get away from God! See Psalm 139:8!

CLA EMAIL ALERT

Christian Law Assoc 07/06/06

Presently, forty-five states have constitutional amendments or statutes banning gay marriage.

INTERRUPTION OR OPPORTUNITY?

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Source: “The God of Interruptions” by Rebecca Barlow Jordan

On our way through life there are interruptions that can agitate us if we do not focus on Jesus.

On His way to pray for Jairus’ daughter, a woman with an issue of blood touched Jesus’ garment and was healed. (See Mark, Chapter 5.) Suddenly, someone announced that it was too late, the girl (Jairus’ daughter) was dead. However, interruptions never stopped Jesus. He went on and raised her from the dead!

Rebecca Barlow Jordan says, “Interruptions represented people. And people were His business. People were His purpose. Interruptions spelled opportunities to display His Father’s great power and love.”

One day while very busy, she answered a soliciting phone call. After listening patiently she said, “But may I tell you something I am interested in?” She shared her love for Jesus and the caller asked for prayer!

As time flies on, will you let God in your schedule unexpectedly? Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

We are to be God’s witnesses in the earth that HE IS GOD.

According to a Barna study made in June 2005, about half of all born again adults do not share their faith with any non-believers during the year, and that those who do share their faith talk about it with few non-Christians.

Realize that not every interruption is an obstacle.

SURVIVING END TIMES WITH JOY

by Gail Redman, Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

News reports and headlines reek of one string of disasters after another. All the doom and gloom evokes fear in many. Evil will increase. Many people will harden their hearts and fall from the faith. As Christians, we recognize the signs of the times. God is still in control. Our faith and confidence is in a risen Savior. God is our protector, provider, healer, salvation, comfort, shepherd, and peace. The joy of the Lord is our strength. (Nehemiah 8:10) No joy, no strength.

For a believer in Jesus Christ, these should be exciting times. God is pouring out His Spirit on all flesh. (Joel 2:28) We have been chosen for this generation and this hour. Our lives can be used to bring glory to God and to share the gospel with those bound by sin. Signs and wonders will confirm God’s Word as preaching goes forth under the anointing.

Being in the cleft of the rock, sheltered under the shadow of the Almighty, we will find protection and comfort. We are a part of the greatest enterprise on planet earth, a great adventure at the midnight hour of the age of grace. Put on the seatbelt of truth and

prepare for the ride of your life!

SEPTEMBER

A B C WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

Salvation is not as simple as ABC, because Jesus died to atone for our sins, but these ABCs will get you started.

Acknowledge your sins.

We acknowledge, O LORD, our wickedness, and the iniquity of our fathers: for we have sinned against thee. Jeremiah 14:20

Believe Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6

Confess & Continue

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Romans 10:9-10

“. . . continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard. . . .”

Colossians 1:23

BUS RADIO

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

(AFA Alert 08/07/06)

A new company, BusRadio, plans to install radio equipment in school buses as a way to target corporate advertising using school children as a captive audience. Children riding school buses will be forced to listen to the music and commercial ads while on the bus. The Rand Corporation released a study that shows a link between musical lyrics aimed at youth and increased sexual activity.

School children should not be exploited for BusRadio’s financial gain. Please pray that this program is stopped before it is started and continued nationwide.

LIGHTEN UP

Quote by David B. Crabtree, pastor of Calvary Church in

Greensboro, N.C.

“Grumpiness is not a spiritual gift—it’s an absolute impediment to the advancement of the kingdom of God! Lighten up! Someone is looking for a bright spot against a black night. We are called to shine like the stars.”

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

Philippians 2:15

OH! TO SEE JESUS!

by Gail Redman

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri

who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

Until a man has a revelation of Christ, he is unchanged. We can hear about Jesus or read about Jesus, but until there is a supernatural life-changing experience of the new birth, man remains with sin. As Christians, our desire should be a deeper vision of the holiness of Christ and the redemptive work of the cross. Our desire should be to be like Jesus. No man can come into the presence of God without being affected.

The book Just Like Jesus, written by Max Lucado, states: “God loves you just the way you are, but he refuses to leave you there. He wants you to have a heart like his. He wants you to be just like Jesus.” It is only after we have a revelation of Jesus, that we can even recognize that we are sinners. Good, moral people are still sinners in need of a Savior.

We should not be satisfied where we are. Our desire each day should be to become more and more like the babe in the manger: the babe of humility, the creator of the universe that hung on a cross for the sins of mankind. What love and humility to come to this earth in the flesh and die in our place for our sins! It is only after we see Jesus through the eyes of the Spirit that we can even begin this journey to be like Jesus.

OH, TO SEE JESUS!! IN GOD WE TRUST

Do you believe in God?

Recently NBC polled this question. The greatest poll response came from this question.

Eighty-six (86%) of Americans want to keep the words, “In God We Trust” and God

in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Fourteen percent (14%) were against it.

ISRAEL

Daily Alert, 08/07/06

83% of Americans say Israel is justified in its military action - Gallup poll

57% of Americans are sympathetic to Israel - CNN poll

NEA ENDORSES HOMOSEXUAL MARRIAGES

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

(source: AFA & Donald E. Wildmon, 06/19/06)

The National Education Association, (NEA), a teacher’s union, has proposed that schools should support and actively promote homosexual marriage and other forms of marriage in every public school in America.

Basically, they plan to promote homosexual marriage in every avenue they have available, including textbooks, to all children at all age levels and without the permission or knowledge of parents.

The NEA has recommended that teachers be required to undergo sensitivity training about homosexuality before certification. They have voted to replace the word tolerance toward homosexuality with “acceptance and respect” in union policies.

AFA encourages teachers who do not approve of their dues going to the NEA to find an alternative teacher's group to help them retain their benefits. AFA suggests a look at the CEAI home page (http://www.ceai.org/index.htm or find another alternative in their state.

MORE AFA NEWS

AFA asked supporters to email the Motion Picture Association of America to drop their practice of rating PG any movie which had an evangelical Christian message. The MPAA now says they no longer consider statements of faith or religious content as a ‘thematic element’ that could trigger a rating of PG or higher.

VALUABLE TO HIM

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Source: Today’s Pentecostal Evangel

According to TPE (12/11/05 issue), “Under the new guidelines, known as the Groningen Protocol, euthanasia is permitted when a child is terminally ill with ‘no prospect’ of recovery and suffering great pain, when two doctors agree the situation is hopeless and when parents consent.”

The same article quotes David Stevens, executive director of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations in Bristol, Tennessee, as saying, Euthanasia is not about giving patients the right to die but giving doctors the right to kill.”

Burke Balch is the director of the Robert Powell Center for Medical Ethics at the National Right to Life Committee in Washington, D.C. He says, “When we start treating humans like defective products that can be thrown away when they are broken in some way, we have dropped to the utmost depths of degradation. God loves each of us and values each of us.”

God created us in His image, and we are ALL valuable to Him!

OCTOBER

ARE YOU READY?

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Source: Today’s Pentecostal Evangel, article by Pastor David Argue of Lincoln, Nebraska

Coal miners in Somerset County, Pennsylvania who had been rescued from beneath 240 feet of stone had written their last notes to their loved ones. Hebrews 9:27 tells us that we all have an appointment with death. Sometimes it comes unexpectedly!

Today is the right time to prepare for death. John 5:24 says, “. . . He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”

Pastor David Argue of Lincoln, Nebraska says “From death to life . . . it is a crossing over during this life, not at the end.” He adds that when you have put your trust in Jesus, “The sting of death, which is sin, is taken away. When life with Jesus has thus been entered into, death (when it occurs) will simply facilitate your crossing over fully into eternal life with God.”

Pastor Argue suggests several things to help you prepare for death:

* have a right relationship with Christ Jesus (1 John 1:9 and 1 John 2:1)

* be at peace with all as much as is possible (Romans 12:18)

* manage your possessions; make a will of provision for loved ones and possible continued commitment to God’s work

* live loving relationships with believers, looking forward to a heavenly reunion

* “Move your heart to heaven now and your body will follow happily.” (Matthew 6:20-21)

* please God in all you do

Will we be happy in heaven? In Matthew 25:21 the good and faithful servant was told,

“. . . enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”

In conclusion, Pastor Argue says, “When death finally comes, whether suddenly or slowly, preparation now will remove its exercise of terror on your soul. Death, then, becomes the opening of a door to the corridors of heaven.”

CHOW TIME

By Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

I read a story about two groups of people. In front of both groups was a large pot of delicious stew. Each person had spoons with very long handles that were strapped to their arms, making it impossible to feed themselves. One group was sick and weak, but the other group was healthy and happy. This group found an answer to the problem. The handle was longer than their arms, and they could not get the spoons back into their own mouths, so they fed each other! See Ecclesiastes 5:13!

ELECTION SEASON

(christianlaw.org) 09/20/06

Ministry leaders must know the critical boundaries for ministry participation in the political process. The only absolute ban on church participation in elections is that churches may not officially endorse or oppose specific candidates for office.

A pastor can not officially endorse a candidate from the pulpit or any other time he is speaking on behalf of the church. Churches may distribute objective voter guides detailing the positions of political candidates. Churches may conduct voter registration drives in the church building and may encourage members to register to vote. Pastors may preach from their pulpits about the important moral and cultural issues of the day, demonstrating what the Bible has to say about these important issues.

NEWS

THE CROSS AGAIN www.aclj.org

The ACLU is attacking a sacred memorial to our heroes of war because it is shaped in the form of a cross. If they win their case, not even Arlington Cemetery in Washington, D.C. would be safe. Have we arrived at a place in our country where the cross - a universal symbol of remembrance - could be illegal?

WHAT’S KOSHER?

Are you a teacher, administrator, parent, or student? A guide called Teachers & Religion in Public Schools is produced by the Center for Law and Religious Freedom of the Christian Legal Society and the Christian Educators Association International. For more on this guide Contact: (www.breakpoint.org) or BreakPoint at 1-877-3CALLBP

WAL-MART JOINS NGLCC

source: AFA Action Alert, 08/31/06

“Wal-Mart, the largest retailer in the world, has asked for and received permission to join the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce,” according to the American Family Association. To express your opinion, call Chairman Rob Walton at 479-273-4000, or you can call your local Wal-Mart manager. Please be polite when you call.

RULES FOR CHRISTIAN LIVING

Do all the good you can,

By all the means you can,

In all the ways you can,

In all the places you can,

At all the times you can,

To all the people you can,

As long as ever . . you can!

by John Wesley,

evangelist and theologian

$ SIMPLE STEPS to FINANCIAL FREEDOM $

By Gail Redman

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

Financial distress causes problems in marriages and relationships. I believe there are several simple Biblical principles that can be applied to bring God’s blessing.

1) Do you allow Satan to keep you from God’s best? Everyone is gifted with talents and skills that God wants to use for His glory. There are many occupations and opportunities in this nation. Allow God to show you where to work or go to school. Develop your skills, and be faithful at your job.

2) Do you spend more money than you make? If you do, you either need to spend less or ask God to show you how you can increase your income. Overextending yourself financially is a ticket to strife and disaster.

3) Do you borrow money for things you cannot afford, and for unnecessary items? If you do, you are a slave to debt.

4) Do you give God 10% of your income as a firstfruit, plus offerings to God as He leads?

5) Do you pay your bills on time? Do you owe money you never intend to pay? God cannot bless a thief.

6) Do you believe the lies of financial gurus that recommend maxing out your debt load and never getting out of debt?

7) Do you recognize that God owns everything that we possess and it is our responsibility to be good stewards?

8) Are you storing up treasures in heaven? When we die, we will not take anything with us. We must share with others the love of Jesus.

WHEN LOVED ONES PASS

by Sharon Cromwell

Source: Pastor William Harrell of Norfolk, VA

When a loved one passes hearts become tender, and we focus on important things.

Pastor Harrell says that at the death of a believer, people’s “. . . attitudes and actions are more genuinely godly and caring than they were before that death.” He adds that, “We should seek to make the new-found quickening of our graces to be lasting treasures in our lives.”

Christians are blessed by the love, comfort, and practical service of the saints, but above all by the Comforter sent by God. God’s grace sustains us as we trust and lean on Him.

Hebrews 9:27 says, “. . . it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”

People who fear death usually fear the unknown and “the judgment”. 1 John 4:17-18 teaches us that if our love of God is made perfect, “. . . we may have boldness in the day of judgment. . . .”, because perfect love casts out fear! Fearlessness in the face of death is testimony that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:37 says, “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” !!

November

BEGIN & END WITH THANKSGIVING

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri who is a regular contributor to LHF’s Love of the Truth Newsletter

Can you imagine how different life would be if every individual on the planet would begin and end each day thanking God!

If our day begins with worry and dread, what kind of day will we have? If we begin the day thanking God for at least five things, our day will begin on a positive note! No matter how bad a day we have, I believe that if we end the day thanking God for at least five things, we will receive a peaceful night’s sleep.

It is easy to find situations and people that are negative, but we can choose to find the positive in situations and people. Every day we deal with challenges that at times can frazzle our emotions, but ending the day with thanksgiving seals the day with blessing. Life at times can be tough, but we have food, shelter, clothes, and families.

Thanksgiving should not be the only time of year to exhibit an attitude of gratitude.

Every day practice the policy of thanking God for five things in the morning and five things before going to bed. If this habit would become a part of our lives, our attitudes would bring joy and peace to others. However, if we wake up worrying and go to bed worrying, our lives will lack inner peace. Make it your goal to be thankful every day!

CHANGE IS GOOD

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

Dianne Bundt, Associate Editor of the Discipleship Journal Online News, expresses her feelings about change - “Even the best changes involve a degree of uncertainty, loss, and adjustment. . . .”

From the Bible, Daniel 2:21 says, “And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings. . . .”

We must recognize, as Daniel did, God’s sovereignty in our lives and in the earth, and be thankful for the many transitions in our lives.

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” God

doesn’t lie!

GOD GIVES THE INCREASE!

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff, Source: VOM

In 1866 Robert Thomas, the first Protestant missionary to North Korea was beheaded off shore. However, he had taken gospel tracts and Bibles with him. In 1891, in the guesthouse of the soldier who ended Robert’s life, someone discovered that on hidden walls were pasted pages from a Bible! He had found and read one of Robert’s Bibles and found Jesus! Robert’s life was not wasted. We obey, and God increases His kingdom with souls.

GOD IS HEALING IN THE LAND IN FIJI

Source: Pieter Bos, Serving the Nations, Via joelnews.org

The Fiji Islands in 2000 were in political, moral and economic chaos. Churches desperately cried out to God, and repentance swept through preachers, politicians, coup leaders and cannabis farmers, and there was official confession of political misbehavior.

The 'Healing the Land Team' was formed, founded on the scripture 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

This group travels to regions where desperation has caused the whole village to pray and fast with repentance! Team members have dedicated themselves to a full year of prayer and fasting for their nation!

Results on Beqa island include forsaking of demonic fire walking rituals. Almost every month a child had died there. After two weeks of ministry the village chief made a covenant between the village and God! The people have excellent harvests, and no more children have died.

More than 150 villages have been completely restored. One poisoned river was healed overnight. Small fish were replaced by a multitude of big fish, which have been there for more than two years.

Bos, a Dutch prayer leader says, “The dying coral reefs have been an international ecological concern. But in many places around Fiji the coral reefs have been restored, which is a miracle. National Geographic is currently researching this remarkable change in the environment.”

NOVEMBER NEWS

LET THE CHURCH SHINE BCN, www.breakingchristiannews.com

Churches in and around Charlotte, North Carolina are standing for morality. In one place, 900 Christians showed up at a school board meeting. Because churches took a stand, a proposed high school homosexual club was denied.

LOST JEWISH TRIBE 09/28/06 Daily Alert

A group of people from the Bnei Menashe community in northeastern India are scheduled to emigrate to Israel this month. Rabbinical judges have declared the Bnei Menashe to be descendants of the Jewish people. About 1,000 of them are already in Israel; about 7,000 remain in India

“IN GOD WE TRUST” in Ohio The Church Around the World, (news resource)

A bill recently signed by Ohio governor Bob Taft requires“. . . all public and community schools to display donated copies of the national motto, “In God We Trust: and the state motto, “With God, All Things Are Possible.”

DRY RIVER Daily Alert 10/18/06 - Tzafrir Rinat (Ha'aretz)

Ninety-two percent of the Jordan's waters are already being used for human consumption. The new joint Jordanian-Syrian dam will reduce the water flow twenty-five percent more. It is predicted that the Jordan River could dry up next summer.

FINGER PRINTS www.weeklyreader.com

Students in Rome City School District in Georgia pay for lunch using their finger prints!

PERSECUTION USA

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff, Source: The Home Front by Chuck Colson, 10/19/06

One bill before Congress, the Workplace Religious Freedom Act (S. 677 and H.R. 1445), provides protection for our religious freedoms. Pray.

Condoleezza Rice has said, "As we celebrate our freedom . . . we're mindful that too many people of faith can only whisper to God in the silent sanctuaries of their conscience because they fear persecution for their religious beliefs."

Let us be thankful for freedom. Let us not lose it.

DECEMBER

BECAUSE HE’S A CHRISTIAN

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff Source: Don Wildmon’s Action Letter, 11/06

According to Don Wildmon, “. . . anti-Christian bigotry is the only accepted prejudice in America!” Government censure of Christians is wrong.

Dr. Campion is the CEO of Campion, Barrow and Associates, a firm that specializes in conducting psychological reviews of candidates applying for municipal police and fire departments. Although Dr. Campion had received “high marks” on “general procedural goodness and specific cultural fairness”, his firm’s contract with the city of Springfield, Illinois was terminated because of his Christian beliefs.

AFA (American Family Association) is suing Springfield on the grounds that a governmental entity may not terminate an employee or independent contractor because it disagrees with the employee/contractor’s political or religious affiliations.

If this discrimination is allowed against Dr. Campion, it opens the door for any government entity in the country to exclude politically conservative and/or religious people from government jobs, even if there is evidence that their views negatively impact their job.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 says, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”

1 Timothy 2:3-4 continues: “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” It is God’s will that everyone comes to know Jesus and His salvation, so let’s intercede for Dr. Campion, the city of Springfield, the state of Illinois, and for our blessed United States!

CHRISTMAS PRIORITIES

WORSHIP THE KING

LOVE – Practice God’s love! Romans 13:10 – “Love worketh no ill to his neighbour. . . .”

JOY – Share the gospel of salvation. There is joy in God’s presence. (Psalm 51:12, 16:11)

PEACE – Let God’s peace rule in your heart. (Colossians 3:15; Philippians 4:7;

Ephesians 2:14)

HOPE – Titus 3:7 - That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Our hope is in Jesus Christ as a stedfast anchor in this life, who gives us life abundantly. (Hebrews 6:19, John 10:10)

TEMPERANCE – Budgeting and self control is a must. (Galatians 5:22-23)

GENEROSITY – Luke 12:33 – “Sell that ye have, and give alms….”

ELEPHANTS HELP SPREAD THE GOSPEL

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff Source: IRN

For unknown reasons, about 10 wild elephants rampaged through a small village in India's Nagaland state. All 30 village families escaped, but their homes and property were destroyed.

The people, including a group of Christian believers, were scattered to neighboring villages. As refugees, the believers shared the Gospel with their new neighbors. The result is that many people got saved and two new fellowships were started close by!

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Will it take a herd of wild elephants to move us out of our comfort zone to witness for Jesus? Hmmm. Read Acts 8:1 & 4.

NOT SHARING

Source: BARNA UPDATE 06/14/05 (www.barna.org)

With our studies showing that about half of all born again adults do not share their faith with any non-believers during the year, and that those who do share their faith talk about it with few non-Christians, the faith-oriented media have become the primary means through which the gospel message is presented to non-Christians on a regular basis.

WHAT IS A GIFT?

by Gail Redman

Dr. Redman is a dentist in East Prairie, Missouri who is a regular contributor to LHF’s

Love of the Truth Newsletter

During the Christmas season, people hustle here and there preparing for the holiday. Many gifts are purchased for loved ones. We know the definition of a gift as something that is given or bestowed, a present. It is free; payment in return is not expected.

God has offered all of mankind the free gift of eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. No one can ever be declared righteous enough by their own works or goodness. Only the blood of Jesus can cleanse us of our sins. Salvation is a free gift available to everyone who calls on the name of Jesus!

DECEMBER NEWS

by Sharon Cromwell, newsletter staff

HATE CRIMES

Source: Los Angeles Times

According to California Atty. Gen. Bill Lockyer, Jews continue to be the most frequently targeted religious group in the state, accounting for nearly 69 percent of all religiously motivated hate crimes.

MODERN BETHLEHEM

Source: Matthew Price of BBC New

Matthew Price of BBC News reporting from Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, said, “The little town of Bethlehem is perhaps more associated with Christianity than any other place in the world. But now there are fears that soon it could be home to hardly any Christians at all. To get into Bethlehem from Jerusalem you have to go through a checkpoint. Israeli security personnel sitting behind blast-proof-glass ask for your passport. Soldiers stand, rifles cradled in their arms.”

LIFE WITHOUT ROCKETS

Source: Daily Alert, 11/09/06 (Ynet News)

Some Israeli children don't remember life without Kassam rockets falling, and they are afraid. “We have no normal life. We never know what will happen the next hour. . . . It's traumatic to think that someone close to us will get hurt. It's just terrible,” said Bar, who testified before the Committee for Children's' Rights. “I have a hard time concentrating in school, and the Kassams affect my entire life,” said Niv. “Every time I want to do something, I give up because I think that the alarm will go off at any moment.”

NO LITERATURE? Yes now!

Source: Christian Law Association Email Alert

A city on the west coast proposed an ordinance to ban all literature from being distributed in the community, essentially banning churches from distributing Gospel tracts door-to-door. In court, such an ordinance would not be considered constitutional since it banned a constitutionally-protected First Amendment activity. CLA's legal opinion memo was presented. The council voted against the ordinance 4 to 1. Praise the Lord!