apr 17. 2026 - scripture or thought for the day
"finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing." 2 tim 4:8
you’ve probably heard the phrase YOLO — “you only live once.” it’s catchy. it’s been used to justify everything from reckless spending to spur of the moment decisions. but for all its hype, YOLO might be one of the most misleading ideas we’ve embraced.
why? because it implies that this is all there is. that the goal of life is to squeeze out as much pleasure, achievement, or comfort as possible before the clock runs out.
as followers of Jesus, we believe something very different — something that changes everything: you don’t only live once. you live twice. that’s because there’s more to life than this life. we’re not just flesh and bone. we’re eternal souls. this means the daily choices we make not only have an impact now and into the near future — the way we choose to live each day ripples for eternity. over time our choices create a lasting legacy.
legacy is about what we leave behind, and we all have one. how you invest your time, attention, energy, money, and relationships determine the kind of legacy you will have. Jesus taught that our priorities reveal the true direction of our hearts.
when you live with eternity in mind, you begin investing your life differently. you focus less on accumulating temporary rewards and more on building a legacy that lasts beyond this life. you realize the decisions you make and actions you take today can make an eternal difference.
as i’m nearing my eighth, i’ve continue to consider the legacy i want to leave, the eternal impact i want to have on the lives of others for generations to come. legacy matters to me not because i’m nearing the end of life but because i’m more mindful of what remains when i’m no longer in the room.
legacy isn’t about headlines or accolades. it’s about impact. it’s the ripple effect of how you live, love, and lead. legacy accrues based on how you steward all the gifts and resources God entrusts to you during your lifetime.
over my seven decades i’ve learned that life doesn’t hand you clarity — it hands you choices. and how you live based on those choices, over time, reveal what you value most.
one day the impact of what and who you poured your life into will be made clear. on that day we’ll all have what i call the final conversation — a moment before God when we give an account for the life we were given. not just what we did, but why we did it. not just how we behaved, but who we became.
for me, that moment isn’t something i dread. it’s something i prepare for. i don’t live for applause or achievement. i live for that conversation. because when everything is stripped away, only one thing will matter: was i faithful with what i was given? that question clarifies everything.
when you live with eternity in mind, you start asking different questions:
instead of “what do i want today?” you ask, “what will matter forever?”
instead of “how can i win?” you ask, “how can i serve?”
instead of “what’s next?” you ask, “what’s lasting?”
apr 18, 2026 - a diamond in the rough
"the sin of judah is written with a pen of iron; with the point of a diamond it is engraved On the tablet of their heart, and on the horns of your altars" jer 17"1
"all we like sheep have gone astray" isa 53:6 we are as clay in the Master's hand. but He will polish us and refine us, making us shine as a diamond in His hand, fitting for His kingdom.
several years ago there was found in an african mine the most magnificent diamond in the world’s history. it was presented to the king of england to blaze in his crown of state. the King sent it to amsterdam to be cut. it was put into the hands of an expert lapidary. and what do you suppose he did with it?
he took the gem of priceless value, and cut a notch in it. then he struck it a hard blow with his instrument, and lo! the superb jewel lay in his hand cleft in twain. what recklessness! what wastefulness! what criminal carelessness!
not so. for days and weeks that blow had been studied and planned. drawings and models had been made of the gem. its quality, its defects, its lines of cleavage had all been studied with minutest care. the man to whom it was committed was one of the most skillful lapidaries in the world.
do you say that blow was a mistake? nay. it was the climax of the lapidary’s skill. when he struck that blow, he did the one thing which would bring that gem to its most perfect shapeliness, radiance, and jewellecious stone was, in fact, its perfect redemption. for, from those two halves were wrought the two magnificent gems which the skilled eye of the lapidary saw hidden in the rough, uncut stone as it came from the mine.
so, sometimes, God lets a stinging blow fall upon your life. the blood spurts. the nerves wince. the soul cries out in agony. the blow seems to you an appaling mistake. but it is not, for you are the most priceless jewel in the world to God. and He is the most skilled lapidary in the universe.
some day you are to blaze in the diadem of the King. as you lie in His hand now He knows just how to deal with you. not a blow will be permitted to fall upon your shrinking soul but that the love of God permits it, and works out from its depths, blessing and spiritual enrichment unseen, and unthought of by you.
in one of george macdonald’s books occurs this fragment of conversation: “i wonder why God made me,” said mrs. faber bitterly. “i’m sure i don’t know what was the use of making me!”
“perhaps not much yet,” said dorothy, “but then He hasn’t done with you yet. He is making you now, and you are quarrelling with the process.”
if men would but believe that they are in process of creation, and consent to be made — let the Maker handle them as the potter the clay, yielding themselves in resplendent motion and submissive, hopeful action with the turning of His wheel — they would ere long find themselves able to welcome every pressure of that hand on them, even when it was felt in pain; and sometimes not only to believe but to recognize the divine end in view, the bringing of a son unto glory.
not a single shaft can hit,
till the God of love sees fit.
how large of a diamond will you produce? how much must be chipped away to make you shine? if it be all, God will have to produce His own weight of glory.
BEFORE ANYTHING,
THERE WAS GRACE
Grace that called us from what we were to what we could become, and even that was not of ourselves.
As the great John Newton once wrote:
'Twas grace that taught
my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Jesus, the Christ of God. "who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" 2 tim 1:9-10
I am being convinced more and more each day how it's all about God. Jesus, on the cross, proclaimed: "It is finished" and it was, there and then. even our best works are merely filthy rags before His goodness and holiness.
Some of the most unlikely people will be with us there in paradise. Why? Because they believed. Not because of what they do. What are you trusting in? Your works or His grace? And for whatever gift did you have to work for?
Our works and merely because we love Him and desire to be like Him!
MORE THAN WE EVER IMAGINED
God has indeed blessed this ministry and project more than we ever imagined. What began in the heart of our founder (a simple chosen of God) has blossomed into more, much more than her eyes could envision then.
Some of our past (and mostly continuing endeavors) include our peach orchard project, our outreach to foreign nationals, regular scheduled prayer meetings, the building of several wells in diverse villages, the feedings and clothing we regularly do to many, the servicing if individual needs (too numerous to mention) and a multitude of other things done to glory Jesus and feed His sheep.
New endeavors include the writing of a daily which goes out to many via email. (You may request to be added by asking at lindajenni@gmail.com).
A rapidly growing of a prison ministry, ministering by email and various elements to encourage their growth and devotion to our Lord and Savior.
The point is, all it takes is one individual... the one who says, "Here am I Lord, send me!"
A SPECIAL MESSAGE
The birthing of a ministry of prayer
my mentor, paula rayburn, sat at her kitchen window one morning looking out at the most vacant lots surrounding her square block in alvarado. she could imagine homes built that would temporarily house abused women and children as they transitioned to a new life. she worked in community services and counseled many as they came and went (often without all the help they needed). she was a strong woman of God with a gift of discernment and operated heavily in the ministry of deliverance. (yes, deliverance is a ministry; one we all need a measure of on occasion.)
that was just a part of her ministry. she also felt led to do more, as though called to give her life for Jesus. she formed the ministry of prayer and obtained her authorization from the government, knowing it would take God's guidance alone to accomplish all in her heart. she officially received her tax-exempt notice in january of 1999.
she has since gone home to our Lord but family and friends continue the work she birthed by one woman's faith in a God of the impossible.
my testimony
unfortunately, i have been in and out of Jesus most of my life. if i had "stayed in", i would have definitely saved myself much heartache. i suppose it wasn't until 1982 that my lasting commitment began.
i have tried to live my personal witness but never really felt myself "called into ministry". it wasn't until 1999 when my dear friend paula was led to form the "Ministry of Prayer" -- and somehow she just kind of dragged me along. i didn't even consent to be on the board for several years -- even though i helped her in every way i could. i even helped her get her 501(c)3 to be officially recognized as tax exempt.
i have always been kind of a passenger on the bus instead of the driver. behind-the-scenes is where i feel most useful. i maintain her websites, do the newsletter, graphics and printing needs. i have been in the printing industry all my life.
if there are any rewards to be had for my portion, they certainly belong to paula. and if there is ever any glory, i gladly pass it all up to Jesus. every time i consider His most precious gift it overwhelms me and tears flow freely. paula has always said i was a worshiper.
my part
we have since done many wonderful things. as designated administrator of world outreach, i will only speak of my part and what i know for sure. our activities have mostly been in nigeria, kenya and in india. being a small ministry has not limited the scope of lives we touched, influenced and changed. after all, it only took one Jesus to change the whole world. it only took - THE Jesus. "therefore God, Your God has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions." psa 45:7b
we have built homes and churches for those desiring to reach the many lost in their own country. we have built wells for the thirsty and purchased food for the hungry. we have clothed many of the naked and comforted their grieving hearts. all this has been done to christian and muslim alike so the love of Christ would be revealed. and the little children, how He loves the little children and so do we.
the stories i could relate; stories of battles and victories against witchcraft and demonic activity as the muslims surrounding did all they could to extinguish us and the work. and now the whole world is waking up to those same spiritual forces. assuredly we battle not against flesh and blood but spiritual force in high places. as i look at the state os israel on the map i say, "but God, she is so small." but our God is enough!
conclusion
now as i look back at all our work i am honestly surprised God could use such a soul as me. He can use anyone, even you. our ministry work still continues in it's many works and now God has allowed this simple soul to reach out to a kind of ministry of her own; a prison ministry. "for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me." matt 25:35-36
how fitting that God would use my dwindling years to fill out the the assignment we all were given. it is now a race to see which comes first - the rapture or our long awaited reward; to see Jesus face to face.
have any of us ever stopped to consider how many lives our life touches? and what kind of affect it has had on them. there's so much i think i should have, could have and wished i had done different. so much could have been done better. but we must be as paul. "forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead" phil 3:13b we must all press ahead. as long as there is breath in my body, let it serve His purposes and His glory.
now before anyone tries to think i boast of myself let me make it plainly clear: we are saved by faith in the atoning blood of Jesus alone. it's possible to have no faith and no works. it's also possible to have works and no faith. but it's impossible to have true saving faith and no works. christianity is not about faith and works either. salvation begins with faith alone, but genuine christianity is about a faith that works. "which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." eph 2:10b
one of my frequent, fervent prayers is that God never be ashamed to be called my God. we are call christians because are supposed to be Christ-like. not just in the proper places at the proper times but at all times. i will forever strive to be called a christian and i pray i never cause shame to be cast on that precious name i an called by.
We seek no glory for ourselves but only that we may lift up the name of our Lord Jesus, to whom gets all glory and praise for His work of redemption.
Jeremiah 33:3
The lion sleeps tonight but He roars tomorrow.
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About Our Founder
- Paula would be the last one to want a tribute paid to her. She would undoubtedly quote us a scripture: "We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do." Luke 17:10 That being said, it is good to give honor to whom honor is due.
What can just one person do? One only needs to look at the many "ones" throughout the ages who knew that only our faith can put limits on God. A divorced woman with children did not dwell on the circumstances of what is but instead on what could be. When Paula fell in love with Jesus, there was no turning back. There would be no divorce this time.
I was there with she told me how she felt God's calling on her life. I helped her set up this ministry with the government as a charitable organization. From there, many family and friends joined in her vision of ministering to those with needs.
Then one day as she was sitting at her kitchen window looking upon the surrounding block with several empty or vacated lots, she had a vision of a small little community that could serve as a temporary haven for women and children in need of refuge. Remembering how she used to harvest peaches from an orchard when she was younger, the project was suitably named Peach Orchard Park.
Now our Paula is gone but the dream lives on. The mantel has been passed. The fire for serving our Lord lives on in the hearts of all associated with this ministry. And we, like her, readily confess what would have surely been on her lips. "We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do." Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus, come.
Our Paula has now gone home to her reward but the ministry continues with family and friends. We miss her dearly but we know we shall all be together again soon! -
About the Ministry
About the Ministry
In 1999 the Lord led Paula to incorporate Paula Rayburn Ministries and begin Ministry of Prayer. How does one begin to contemplate such a decision. There was the inner assurance that her's was to be a life of ministry and she was prepared to go wherever He would lead. She had learned to know her Father's voice and she would follow through all obstacles put in her path.
God was so gracious and used the most inexperienced people to help the ministry become recognized as a 501c3 non-profit organization by the government. It's not that there were any expectations of great donors that would need a tax deduction. It was just the first few steps down the path that was laid out before her.
The beginnings were simple. Paula was living the witness and God was bringing people across her path. There was much individual praying and counseling. Just a tank of gas helped many through a difficult time. Paula has always been recognized as a strong Christian and people seek her out for her discernment and prayers. Friends and neighbors began to gather at her home for prayer and a regular schedule of such events were begun.
The small planting of seeds began to bear fruit. Paula has always strived to be obedient to what the Lord would have her do. Just as he gave her the vision of Ministry of Prayer, one day He also gave her a vision to begin Peach Orchard Park - housing for abused women and their children. God gave her the vision and as she stepped out in faith, He began the fulfillment. She received the vision by faith and believed God would perform what He had shown her. Our God does not do anything in vain, but it is up to each of us to receive and believe. It is our faith that God justifies. God doesn't force any of us into anything.
We now also have a wonderful world outreach program that God is using to save and bless people across the globe. The internet has allowed us to meet people that would never have been possible before. We believe it is God who directs people to our website - not any great design or search engines. God knows the end from the beginning and He brings us together for His purposes.
I don't believe Paula ever thought her small beginnings would grow to touch so many lives. And I know she doesn't think any of it has come about because of her hard work or worthiness. But she doesn't put any limits on God. The same Jesus who came and suffered to redeem us unto Himself, desires to live in us and move through us. I can do all things through Christ who strengths me. WE can do all things through Jesus Christ. Won't you let Him use you also? All it takes is - here am I Lord, use me.
Our Board of Directors Include:
Debra R. Stroud, President
Rosita Jenkins, Vice-President
Pat White, Secretary
Karen Rayburne, Treasurer
David Hearne, Youth Director
Linda Jennings, World Outreach
Pam Rayburn
Tom Durrington
Judy Durrington
Tiffany Scaglion
Harley Daugherty
Advisors Include:
Charles White-
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
First of all, let us begin by saying that we believe God has a plan for each of our lives, but has also given us free will. Some choose to do nothing. Some are busy about many things, but never stop to consult God. Both have missed God's plan. This is not God's failing -- it is ours. Jesus said He only did those things He saw the Father doing. We accomplish nothing without Him. God is not controlling. He has given us all authority over our lives and situations.
A former pastor, Owen Cain, used to say, "There are times in your life when your faith is firmly established by something." It may be a situation where God has made a way where there absolutely was no way. It may have been God speaking to your spirit, and you knew it was Him. There can be many of these, or few. God deals with each of us differently. But these are faith builders. Owen used to say that, at these times, you drive a stake into the ground. Any time fear, doubt or unbelief tries to creep in, you go back to that stake and you can say, "I know that I know that I know."
Since God has dealt to each of us a measure of faith, Paula too has a few stakes in the ground and would like to share one of them with you in this mission statement. "Shortly after I began my walk with God, I heard Him speak to me as clearly as I ever have. 'Paula, I am coming to My temple, suddenly. Prepare My people.' I believe this is my mission."
One can't begin to describe how beautiful the beginning walk with Jesus is. It is actually being born again in the spirit - old things are passed away - all things have become new. It is that first love where you can't be around the one you love enough -- where you long to do every little thing that pleases the object of your love. God wants us to experience that first love perpetually; but sadly, just like human love, we settle in. We get too comfortable, too familiar, and begin to take things for granted. It's not that God quits speaking to us -- it's that we quit listening. As a believer you can choose to be either Martha (was always busy about many things), or Mary (who sat at the feet of Jesus to learn and adore). Refer to Luke 10:38-42. This is a believers' decision. It doesn't affect your salvation - it just affects your maturity and unspeakable joy that is experienced as your union grows deeper. Wake up! Seek the better part. Jesus is coming soon!
Paula has seen much abuse heaped upon people by the very church that is supposed to nourish and mature them. People are being neglected, outcast and belittled in some churches. They are being judged and condemned by their own brothers and sisters in the Lord. God loves His church. It is His body. He has said "Come unto Me all ye that labor and I will give you rest".
The Word of God clearly defines what our purpose is: "For the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness by which they lie in wait to deceive, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head -- Christ." Eph. 4:12-13
The purpose of this ministry is to free and lift up the body - till we all come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Until we become those mature sons of God doing the works that He did - just as He prophesied we would. I know Paula had no idea where all the Lord would lead her when she began this magnificent walk with her Savior - but God knew. All it takes is someone who says, "Here am I Lord, use me".-
Statement of Faith
We are, before all things, believers in Christ Jesus, and thankful for His redemption. Our faith is based upon what the Bible says. If we choose to believe some things and disregard others, how can our faith ever be secure? If we allow that one passage could be in error, could we ever be confident the rest was true. Our perfect God can use imperfect man to reveal His Word. Someone may have confusion in understanding a specific passage and its original intent, but the fault does not lie with the scripture, but with the interpretation.We Believe
We believe the Bible is the divinely inspired Word of God. It is not merely words or instructions. It is a spiritual substance and a direct connection to the spirit realm of God. The spirit realm is the parent realm. Jesus said in John 6:63, "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life."
This is where the Christian faith differs from religion. Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." He has paid the price for sin. He is the door of redemption. There is no other way. You can never be good enough or earn your way to heaven.
Now that we have explained the foundation we stand on, here are the principles we believe.
We believe the Bible is the divinely inspired Word of God.
We believe that Jesus Christ was born, in the flesh, of the Virgin Mary.
We believe He is the Word of God manifested in this earth.
We believe He has existed eternally in the Trinity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit - are three co-equal and one God. We believe He lived a sinless, perfect life.
We believe He willingly died on the cross as a sacrifice for sin (for me and all who would receive).
We believe He rose from the dead on the third day and ascended to the right hand of God.
We believe He is coming again and believers will be changed or resurrected to everlasting life.
We believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, with the evidence of speaking in tongues.
We believe my God, who lives in eternity, desires to share it with me. "And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him." 1 John 4:16
If you do not know this love, if you do not know Jesus, please receive Him now. There is a link at the top of every page containing the prayer of salvation. That's all it takes to be born again. These are eternal matters we are discussing. Don't think you can wait for a more convenient time. Investigate now to see if these things be true. The Holy Spirit will reveal Jesus and your need for a savior if you heart is pure in seeking the truth.
Our prayer is that every person who visits this website will be convicted by the Holy Spirit. For non-Christians, we pray constant conviction until they accept Jesus as savior. For Christians, we pray they will have a burning desire for more of God, a hunger for righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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Study to show yourself spproved. -
The Blessed Holy Spirit is Our Constant Companion -
Deliverance - Jesus Said It is the Children's Bread -
God Can Speak to Us in Dreams and Visions
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Holy Spirit
It is not our intention here to teach you about the Holy Spirit. There are many wonderful books by people more versed than this humble servant. My desire is to make you aware of how precious His baptism is. He is called the Comforter for good reason.Holy Spirit
Just as we are most vulnerable when we share our deepest self with others, the Holy Spirit is the most intimate sharing of God with His creation. That is why the Bible speaks of blaspheming the Holy Spirit as the unforgivable sin.
No one can come to the Father unless the Holy Spirit draws them. It is His mission to convict us of our sin and grant us the desire to repent and turn from our ways.
So all believers have the Holy Spirit, but there is a further immersion in Him. It is called the baptism of the Holy Spirit. It's the difference between dipping your toes in the water and jumping in to swim.
What can I say about the Holy Spirit that would entice you with longing to live in the Spirit. Perhaps the best thing to do is simply quote from someone who knew the Holy Presence intimately. Only the Holy Spirit can put such craving in a man's heart for more of God.
The following is from “A Testament of Devotion”, by Thomas R Kelly
”Let me talk very intimately and very earnestly with you about Him who is dearer than life. Do you really want to live your lives, every moment of your lives, in His Presence? Do you long for Him, crave Him? Do you love His Presence? Does every drop of blood in your body love Him? Does every breath you draw breathe a prayer, a praise to Him? Do you sing and dance within yourselves, as you glory in His love? Have you set yourselves to be His, and only His, walking every moment in holy obedience? I know I'm talking like an old-time evangelist. But I can't help that, nor dare I restrain myself and get prim and conventional. We have too long been prim and restrained. The fires of the love of God, of our love toward God, and of His love toward us, are very hot. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and soul and mind and strength." Do we really do it? Is love steadfastly directed toward God, in our minds, all day long? Do we intersperse our work with gentle prayers and praises to Him? Do we live in the steady peace of God, a peace down at the very depths of our souls, where all strain is gone and God is already victor over the world, already victor over our weaknesses? This life, this abiding, enduring peace that never fails, this serene power and unhurried conquest, inward conquest over ourselves, outward conquest over the world, is meant to be ours. It is a life that is freed from strain and anxiety and hurry, for something of the Cosmic Patience of God becomes ours. Are our lives unshakable, because we are clear down on bed rock, rooted and grounded in the love of God. This is the first and the great commandment.
” Do you want to live in such an amazing divine Presence that life is transformed and transfigured and transmuted into peace and power and glory and miracle? If you do, then you can. But if you say you haven't the time to go down into the recreating silences, I can only say to you, "Then you don't really want to, you don't yet love God above all else in the world, with all your heart and soul and mind and strength."-
• • • Fruits Of
Fruits of the Holy Spirit
1 Love (Greek: agape)
2 Joy (Greek: chara)
3 Peace (Latin: pax, Greek: eirene)
4 Patience (Latin: longanimitas)
5 Kindness (Latin: benignitas)
6 Goodness (Latin: bonitas)
7 Faithfulness (Latin: fides)
8 Gentleness (Latin: mansuetudo)
9 Self-control (Latin: "continentia")
10 See also
11 Source
12 External linksLove (Greek: agape)
The word rendered love is agape in the Greek, which in the Christian context refers to unconditional love. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance describes Agape as:
Strong's #26: A word to which Christianity gave new meaning. Outside of the NT, it rarely occurs in existing Greek manuscripts of the period. Agape denotes an undefeatable benevolence and unconquerable goodwill that always seeks the highest of the other, no matter what he does. It is the self-giving love that gives freely without asking anything in return, and does not consider the worth of its object. Agape is more a love by choice than philos, which is love by chance; and it refers to the will rather than the emotion. Agape describes the unconditional love God has for the world. The "Agape" love is more than that, is sacrificial, demonstrated by Jesus at the Cross of Calvary.
Paul describes the attributes of this love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a:
"Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything without weakening. [Love never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. Love never fails." (AMP)Joy (Greek: chara)
See also: Eudaimonia
The Greek word for 'joy' is chara, derived from the word charis, which is the Greek word for 'grace.' This is important to note, for it tells us categorically that chara is produced by charis of God. This means 'joy' is not a human-based happiness that comes and goes...Rather, true 'joy' is divine in origin...it is a Spirit-given expression that flourishes best in hard times. For example, in 1 Thessalonians 1:6, the Thessalonians were under great stress due to persecution; yet in the midst of it all, they continued to experience great joy. In fact, the Greek strongly implies that their supernatural joy was due to the Holy Spirit working in them. Paul even called it the "joy of the Holy Ghost". (Sparkling Gems from the Greek, Rick Renner)
According to Nehemiah 8:10, "The joy of the Lord is your strength". The writer of the Letter to the Hebrews words it this way: "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Heb 12:2Peace (Latin: pax, Greek: eirene)
Peace is the result of resting in a relationship with God. Peace is a tranquility, a state of rest, that comes from seeking after God, or, the opposite of chaos.
The word "peace" comes from the Greek word eirene, the Greek equivalent for the Hebrew word shalom, which expresses the idea of wholeness, completeness, or tranquility in the soul that is unaffected by the outward circumstances or pressures. The word eirene strongly suggests the rule of order in place of chaos. When a person is dominated by peace, he has a calm, inner stability that results in the ability to conduct himself peacefully, even in the midst of circumstances that would normally be very nerve-wracking, traumatic, or upsetting...Rather than allowing the difficulties and pressures of life to break him, a person who is possessed by peace is whole, complete, orderly, stable, and poised for blessing.
Jesus is described as the Prince of Peace, who brings peace to the hearts of those who desire it. He says in John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." NKJV
"Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of God no matter what the conflict." -Anonymous
"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Rom 5:1 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Rom 15:13Patience (Latin: longanimitas)
Patience, which in some translations is "longsuffering" or "endurance," is defined in Strong's by two Greek words, makrothumia and hupomone.
The first, pronounced (mak-roth-oo-mee-ah) comes from makros, "long," and thumos, "temper." The word denotes lenience, forbearance, fortitude, patient endurance, longsuffering. Also included in makrothumia is the ability to endure persecution and ill-treatment. It describes a person who has the power to exercise revenge but instead exercises restraint. (Strong's #3115)
The latter, hupomone, (hoop-om-on-ay) is translated "endurance": Constancy, perseverance, continuance, bearing up, steadfastness, holding out, patient endurance. The word combines hupo, "under," and mone, "to remain." It describes the capacity to continue to bear up under difficult circumstances, not with a passive complacency, but with a hopeful fortitude that actively resists weariness and defeat. (Strong's #5281)
Hebrews 10:36 says, "For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise." We are "strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness". Col 1:11 "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love". Eph 4:2Kindness (Latin: benignitas)
Kindness does not necessarily mean being nice. One can be kind and not nice. Nice is defined by dictionary.com as being agreeable. In contrast, kindness is acting for the good of people regardless of what they do.
Strong's #5544: Kindness is goodness in action, sweetness of disposition, gentleness in dealing with others, benevolence, kindness, affability. The word describes the ability to act for the welfare of those taxing your patience. The Holy Spirit removes abrasive qualities from the character of one under His control. (emphasis added)
The word kindness comes from the Greek word chrestotes (khray-stot-ace), which meant to show kindness or to be friendly to others and often depicted rulers, governors, or people who were kind, mild, and benevolent to their subjects. Anyone who demonstrated this quality of chrestotes was considered to be compassionate, considerate, sympathetic, humane, kind, or gentle. The apostle Paul uses this word to depict God's incomprehensible kindness for people who are unsaved (see Romans 11:22; Ephesians 2:7; Titus 3:4).
One scholar has noted that when the word chrestotes is applied to interpersonal relationships, it conveys the idea of being adaptable to others. Rather than harshly require everyone else to adapt to his own needs and desires, when chrestotes is working in a believer, he seeks to become adaptable to the needs of those who are around him. (Sparkling Gems from the Greek, Rick Renner)
Kindness is doing something and not expecting anything in return. Kindness is respect and helping others without waiting for someone to help one back. It implies kindness no matter what. We should live "in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left". 2 Cor 6:6-7Goodness (Latin: bonitas)
- The state or quality of being good
- Moral excellence; virtue;
- Kindly feeling, kindness, generosity
- The best part of anything; Essence; Strength;
- General character recognized in quality or conduct.
Faithfulness (Latin: fides)
Faithfulness is committing oneself to something or someone, for instance, to God, to one's spouse. Being faithful requires personal resolve not to wander away from commitments or promises. It's not always easy to be faithful. It takes trust in God. "O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth". Isaiah 25:1 "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith". Eph 3:16-17Gentleness (Latin: mansuetudo)
Gentleness, in the Greek, praotes, commonly known as meekness. The New Spirit Filled Life Bible defines gentleness as:
"a disposition that is even-tempered, tranquil, balanced in spirit, unpretentious, and that has the passions under control. The word is best translated 'meekness,' not as an indication of weakness, but of power and strength under control. The person who possesses this quality pardons injuries, corrects faults, and rules his own spirit well."
"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted." Gal 6:1
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Eph 4:2Self-control (Latin: "continentia”)
The word rendered "self-control" is "enkrateia" in the Greek. Strong's #1466. Self-control
The Greek word used in Galatians 5:23 is "egkrateia", which means having command or "mastery over" (krat- as in "autocrat"), or possession of, "one's own behavior."
"...make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love." 2 Pet 1:5-7
Source
George A. Kennedy, New Testament Interpretation Through Rhetorical Criticism, (University of North Carolina Press: 1984) Longman, Robert Jr. "Self-Control." Web: 19 Oct 2010. Spirit Home- The state or quality of being good
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• • • Gifts Of
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Apostle: The title apostle comes from the Greek word apostolos which means "a messenger, one sent forth with orders". It refers to one who has been delegated authority by another, especially for representation in a foreign land. Apostles were the first leaders of the Church; they were commissioned by Jesus to initiate and direct the preaching of the gospel. While the majority of Christians agree that the title of apostle is reserved for those among the first generation of Christians, many Christian denominations continue in one way or another to recognize a continuing apostolic ministry. Many churches, such as the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Churches, believe in the doctrine of apostolic succession, which holds that properly ordained bishops are the successors to the apostles. Other Christian groups, such as classical Pentecostals, consider the role of a missionary to be fulfilling an apostolic ministry. There are some Christians, however, who advocate restoring the Fivefold ministry, including the formal recognition of the office of apostle. Others would say that the office no longer exists.
Prophet: In the New Testament, the office of prophet is second only to the office of apostle (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11). The prophet's corresponding gift is prophecy. Prophecy is "reporting something that God spontaneously brings to mind". Many, particularly Pentecostals and charismatics, distinguish between the "office of prophet" and the "gift of prophecy", believing that a Christian can possess the gift of prophecy without holding the prophetic office.
Evangelist: An evangelist is one who devotes himself to preaching the gospel. In the New Testament, evangelists preached from city to city, church to church.
Pastor: This term derives from a Greek word for "shepherd". Pastors are gifted to lead, guide, and set an example for other Christians. The grammatical structure of Ephesians 4:11 leads many to conclude that teacher and pastor should be considered one term (pastor-teacher). Even so, the two terms are not interchangeable; while all pastors are teachers, not all teachers are pastors.
Teacher: Someone who devotes his or her life to preaching and teaching the Christian faith. When teaching is provided for the Church by God, two gifts are actually given—to the Church is given a teacher and along with the teacher comes a divine capacity to teach.
Service: The word translated as "ministry" is diakonia, which can also be translated "service". Since there are many types of ministries and service to the Church, this then describes a broad array of gifts rather than a single gift.
Exhortation: The ability to motivate Christians "to patient endurance, brotherly love, and good works".
Giving: Those with this gift share their own possessions with others with extraordinary generosity. While all Christians should be givers, those possessing this gift will go beyond this normal giving.
Leading: This gift speaks to the various leadership roles found in the Church. While many think of roles such as administration, management of funds, strategy planning, etc. as functions outside of the supernatural realm, in reality individuals in these positions are just as in need of supernatural empowerment as are ministers of the gospel. Some writers consider the gifts of governments and leading to be the same gift, but others consider them closely related yet different.
Mercy: Possibly identical to the gift of helps, the mercy-shower possesses a ministry of visitation, prayer, and compassion to the poor and sick.
Word of wisdom: An utterance or message of wisdom supernaturally granted to an individual. For Paul, wisdom refers to "the knowledge of the great Christian mysteries: the Incarnation, Passion, and Resurrection of Christ, and the indwelling in the believer of the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 2; Ephesians 1:17)".
Word of knowledge: The knowledge referred to is often said to relate to understanding Christian doctrine or scriptural truth. It is sometimes said to be connected with the ministry of teachers.
Faith: This refers to that strong or special faith "which removes mountains, casts out devils (Matthew 17:19,20), and faces the most cruel martyrdom without flinching". It is distinguished from the "saving" and "normal" Christian faith.
Gifts of healings: The ability to supernaturally minister healing to others. The plural indicates the variety of sickness healed and the many forms the gift takes.
Working of miracles: The performance of deeds beyond ordinary human ability by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Discerning of spirits: The capacity to discern, distinguish, or to discriminate the source of a spiritual manifestation—whether it emanates from a good or evil spirit. It seemed to have been particularly associated with prophecy as it would be necessary to know whether a prophetic utterance was truly inspired by God.
Tongues: The supernatural ability of speaking an unlearned language Paul seems to have distinguished between the public use of the gift (which must always be interpreted) and the private use which was for the spiritual strengthening of oneself. Currently among Christians there is a dispute as to whether tongues were/are always xenoglossy (speaking an unlearned human language) or whether it also included/includes glossolalia (speaking an unlearned and allegedly non-human language of heavenly or angelic origin).
Interpretation of tongues: This gift always follows the public exercise of the gift of tongues. In 1 Corinthians 14, the Apostle Paul required that all speech in Christian worship should be intelligible. This required that speech given in an unknown tongue be interpreted in the common language of the gathered Christians.
Helps: This gift has to do with service to the sick and the poor. Possessor of this gift has a "spiritual burden and a God-given love for the needy and afflicted".
Administration: Also called the gift of governing. The Greek word translated "governments" is kubernesis, the verb form of which means "to steer" or "to be a helmsman". This gift then refers to the God-given capacity to lead or guide the Church through storms and difficult seas.-
Prayer
Prayer
Every man that has any feeling of the weight of his sin, or any true desire to be delivered from it by Christ has learning and capacity enough to make his own prayer. For praying is not speaking forth eloquently, but simply, the true desire of the heart.
The most simple souls that have accustomed themselves to speak their own desires and wants to God, in such short but true breathings of their hearts to him, will soon know more of prayer and the mysteries of it than any persons who have only their knowledge from learning and learned books.
It is not silence, or a simple petition, or a great variety of outward expressions that alters the nature of prayer, or makes it good or better, but only and solely the reality, steadiness and continuity of the desire; and therefore whether a man offers this desire to God in the silent longing of the heart, or in simple short petitions, or in a great variety of words is of no consequence. But if you would know what I would call a true and great gift of prayer, and what I most of all wish for myself, it is a good heart that stands continually inclined towards God.
I have written very largely on the spiritual life, and he understands not my writings, nor the end of them, who does not see that their whole drift is to call all Christians to a God and Christ within them as the only possible life, light and power of all goodness they can ever have. I invite all people to the marriage of the Lamb, but no one to myself.A PRAYER -- O heavenly Father, touch and penetrate and shake and awaken the inmost depth and centre of my soul, that all that is within me may cry and call to you. Strike the flintly rock of my heart that the water of eternal life may spring up in it. Oh break open the gates of the great deep in my soul, that your light may shine in upon me, that I may enter into your Kingdom of light and love, and in your light see light.
William Law, 1686-1761-
• • • Types Of
Praise and Worship
I personally believe this is the most pure form of prayer. It is when we seek to come into His presence simply to behold and adore Him. To contemplate the magnificence of Who He is and all He has done for us through His love.
One can look around at creation and see such great beauty and majesty. It can make a person feel so small and insignificant. Yet that is not the way God sees it. He has chosen to love and value us about all His other creation. He made us in His image and desires fellowship with us. Let this truth invade you as you come into His presence.Prayer of Confession
It is important for each of us to acknowledge that we have all fallen short of the Glory of God. Even the most devout of us should recognize that all our righteousness is as filthy rags. None of us can ever be worthy enough to stand before Him. But He has made the way. If we confess our sins He is faithful to cleanse us and deliver us from all unrighteousness. Jesus has ripped the veil that we might come boldly before the throne of Grace. This is the gift of God. But always remain humble and grateful. Do not become too familiar - speaking as a child to an earthly father - for though He is Father - He is God!Prayer of Petition
Although we take many everyday things for granted, we should recognize that we are wholly dependent upon Him for life and breath and all things. Just living in this world make us to have needs. God wants us to bring our needs and desires before Him. But be diligent to distinguish between your needs and desires and His. The Word says He puts His desires into our heart. Seek to recognize the difference. The Word says you have not because you ask not - or you ask amiss.Prayer of Thanksgiving
This type of prayer always makes me thing of the 10 lepers which Jesus healed. Only one returned to worship and give thanks. We should all take time and effort to remember the provisions and blessings we have received. It is easy to look around and find someone who has more. It is easy to look around and find those who have less. It is easy to get our eyes on material things and forget what really matters. Don't limit your thankfulness to what God has given you - but also to what you have given God. How has He allowed you to be used for His glory?Prayer of Intercession
God loves intercessors - those who devote time to praying for the needs of others. This is perhaps when we are most Christ-like. How many are willing to shed the admiration of praying for others and spend time alone in their prayer closet - not for themselves - but for someone else. It might be someone you know well or just someone who God has laid on your heart. Don't consider things coincidence or accidents - begin to recognize the promptings of the Holy Spirit. The more you respond, the more God will use you in this way.-
• • • Why Should We Pray
Why to Pray
Prayer is important because it makes us more like Jesus and because it reveals to us the heart and mind of God.
Ordinary people can’t be expected to drop everything to pray, right? Actually, ordinary people can’t afford not to pray. Prayer is a gift given to us—and an activity expected of us—by the Lord. The Bible often says, “when you pray,” not “if you pray,” because prayer seems to be assumed of God’s followers.
Praying because we’re “supposed to” isn’t always enough to motivate us, but the truth is that prayer is much more than a rule. Prayer is important because it makes us more like Jesus and because it reveals to us the heart and mind of God.The Importance of Prayer
Prayer makes us more like Jesus
If we look at the life of Jesus, we see that he prayed—with others (Luke 9:28), for others (Matthew 19:13-14), and on his own (Luke 5:16, Luke 6:12). It was a fundamental part of how he approached each day and every decision, retreating faithfully to spend time with his Father.
Clearly prayer was important to Jesus—it was his lifeline and his connection to the Heavenly Father. It equipped him for the battles he was about to face. It kept alive the intimate relationship that sustained him. And it revealed to him God’s desires and direction.
If the goal of a Christian is to become more like Jesus, that process should include imitating his actions and living out his words. As we pray, we will become more like Jesus, and we will find that prayer changes us.2. Prayer shows us the heart of God.
When Jesus prayed for his disciples in John 17, he prayed for those who would believe in him, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you” (John 17:21).
Prayer helps us become one with the Father and have the kind of relationship Jesus had with him. The Bible is filled with stories illustrating God’s desire to have an intimate relationship with his people, and any close relationship involves communication. When two people have no contact with each other, their relationship will never advance. And since prayer is, quite simply, a conversation with God, it is how we get to know him.
When we come into his presence, all pretense is gone—there is no longer anything to hide because he sees all and knows all. Prayer humbles us because as we spend time with him, we realize how powerful and able and good God is and how much we need him. And yet, God accepts us as we are—not because he wants us to stay that way, but because he knows that the relationship comes first.
As we grow to love him, we will want to become more like him. When we find forgiveness through prayer, God softens our heart and allows us to forgive others. When we experience God’s compassion and mercy, we will share that with others. When we understand that God’s grace is freely given, we recognize that no one is any more or less deserving of God’s love than we are, and it transforms our hearts and our actions, helping us reveal God’s generous love to others.3. Prayer reveals the wisdom of God.
The best part about prayer is that it’s a conversation that goes both directions. Yes, we will talk to God, but when we spend time with him and are willing to receive, we will also hear from him. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Jesus prayed all night before selecting the 12 apostles (Luke 6:12-16), and he prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane to try to ascertain God’s will regarding what God was asking him to do. His time in prayer helped align his will with that of the Father, just as our time with God will do for us. After getting in touch with the heart of God and realizing how much he loves us, we will learn to trust him and value his insight and guidance.
As we spend time talking to God, he aligns our will with his, changing the way we experience a situation and respond to a problem.
Sometimes we miss his answers (because we’re not listening or we’re expecting a different answer so we don’t recognize it when it comes), and other times the answer comes through reading the Bible or talking to others, but God will answer. His wisdom far exceeds our own because he sees farther and loves deeper and has his sights set on an eternity with those he loves, not just gratification in the immediate moment. There is no one else who can see and know what he does, and he delights to share his wisdom with us in prayer.
(A very good message about prayer. Excerpts from Christian.com)
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• • • Prayer Quotes by Notables
“I pray because I can’t help myself - I pray because the need flows out of me all the time, waking and sleeping. It doesn’t change God. It changes me.”
C.S. Lewis
“I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.”
Martin Luther
“Don't worry about having the right words; worry more about having the right heart. It's not eloquence he seeks, just honesty.“
Max Lucado
“Prayer is not asking. Prayer is putting oneself in the hands of God, at His disposition, and listening to His voice in the depth of our hearts.“
Mother Teresa
“When a Christian shuns fellowship with other Christians, the devil smiles, When he stops studying the Bible, the devil laughs. When he stops praying, the devils shouts for joy.”
Corrie Ten Boom
“Every great movement of God can be traced to a kneeling figure.”
Dwight L. Moody
“Each time, before you intercede, be quiet first, and worship God in His glory. Think of what He can do, and how He delights to hear the prayers of His redeemed people. Think of your place and privilege in Christ, and expect great things!”
Andrew Murray
“It matters little what form of prayer we adopt or how many words we use. What matters is the faith which lays hold on God, knowing that He knows our needs before we even ask Him. That is what gives Christian prayer its boundless confidence and its joyous certainty.”
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
“Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.”
Saint Augustine-
Deliverance
Deliverance
"And this is the condemnation, that light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." John 3:19
I realize this still remains a quite controversial topic among Christians. Modern sensibilities tell some there are no such things as demons -- merely mental illness and such. Then there are arguments over oppression and possession.
The fact remains that Jesus, who was God in the flesh, said there were demons, and cast them out of people. He has given us His authority and commanded us to do the same. "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give." Matt. 10:8
Though we are flesh and blood, we are spiritual beings. There is a battle between good and evil. Most Christians are fairly decent and have never been exposed to the darkness that dominates some lives. They suffer demonic attacks as part of normal life. They do not recognize their source. Satan doesn't always want credit for his work. Sadly, they often even believe it is God tormenting them for their own good.
Deliverance doesn't always have to be from something overwhelmingly demonic. In Romans chapter 7, Paul talks about knowing what is right and yet not being able to do it. Deliverance can free you for a closer walk with the Lord.
We are not talking about making Satan and demons the central focus of your life. We just want to deal with spirits as they arise and then be about the Father's business. But deliverance is not just a one-time thing. We must be ever aware of the schemes of the adversary.
If you still do not believe in demons or deliverance, we urge you to search the scriptures you base your faith on. They are abundant in references to Satan and demons.
Faith is the key to deliverance, just as it is with salvation.
Believe and receive!
There are many materials available in the main storehouse on this website. We encourage you to go there and download all that the Lord leads you to. This material is freely shared to help the body of Christ and you may reproduce and share it as you desire.
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Peach Orchard Park - A Local Outreach for Temporary Housing -
Our First House - God Does All Things Well -
A View of the Inside Kitchen -
The Kitchen from a Different Angle -
A Peak at the Bathroom Area
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House One Contributors
Contributors
There is no way we can begin to express our deep gratitude for all those who had a part in the construction of the first home. This house was completed entirely without any public or grant money. There were businesses who donated labor, materials and time. Then there were all the individuals who worked so tirelessly and enthusiastically on this project. (Well, may not tirelessly - but they kept coming back.) Even though we know all concerned have a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment, there also awaits a great reward in our Father's kingdom. So many gave so much - but you can't outgive God.
VOLUNTEERS
Alexander, Hunter; Alexander, Jeff; Alexander, Justin; Alexander, Sarah; Amos, Chris; Andrews, Ray & Ellen; Bailey, Tommy & Debbie; Balentine, Joe; Bayles, Pam; Bond, Gail; Brookshire’s Grocery; Brown, Cody; Brown, Joseph; Brown, Kayte; Brown, Kim; Brown, Landon; Brown, Will; BSA-Troop 217; Burnett, Caleb; Burnett, Collin; Burnett, Colton; Byther, Riggs; Central Baptist Church, Slidell LA; Chen, Jeff; Churman, Lari; Clark, Bruce; Cowboy Way Church Youth; Daugherty, Harley & Linda; Durington, Tom & Judy; Fields, Ricky; First Baptist Church-Adult One; First United Methodist Church-Men; First United Methodist Church-Youth; Franklin, Wayne; Garrett, Colten; Garrett, Mark; Godley Geezers; Green, Betty; Grubbs, Glenda; Hain, Kimberley; Hall, Les; Hardter, Robert; Herrera, Tina; Hester, Joe; Huffman, Joe; Hutchins, Kevin; Jackson, Scot-Family; Keech, Adam; Keech, Deena; Kirkland, Audrey; Lindsey, Joe; Lindsey, Renee; Littlejohn, Ronnie; London, Terry; Marbut, Lucille; Myres, Colton; Norman, Camiron; Patterson, Kyra; Patty, Daniel; Pierce, Bud; Rayburn, Paula; Rayburne, Byron & Karen; Rayburne, Michael & Pamela; Red Neck Bible Study; Rowe, Tina & Randy; Runge, Don; Russell, Jim; Shelfton, Ken; Smith, Audre; Smith, John; Sullivan, Chase; Turner, Catherine; Turner, Kayla; Wade, John & Carolyn; Watson, Ansley; Watson, Trena; Woody, Rodney
DONORS
Allen, James & Bonnie; Alvarado Meadows Nursing Home; Brock, Dale & Mary Ann; Daugherty, Harley & Linda; Daugherty, Matt; Delaney, Reuben; Dunson, G. F.; Durington, Tom & Judy; Ezell, Chuck & Marsha; Franklin & Sons; Fuller, Carol; Grace Mark Church; Grubbs, Glenda; Hall, Marshall & Darlene; Hammond, Don; Higdon, Ray; Hudson, Joe & Nancy; J. & N. Supply Co., Inc.; Jacobs, Pat; Jennings, Linda; Mangrum, Jerry & Nina; Marion, David & Claudine; Meeks, Raymond & Debra; Morton, J. P. & Louise; New Life Ministries; Park, Gary; Pavlik, Charla; Rayburne, Byron & Karen; Rayburne, Junior & Jessica; Rayburne, Michael & Pam; Roten, Billy Charles & Joyce; Sanchez, David; Swindell, Jimmy & Darlene; United Way; Whetsell, Gary & Kay; Whetsell, Jeff & Cindi; White, Charles & Pat; Wickersham, Emily; Wickersham, Mark & Kelly; Williams, Jerry
MEMORIALS
Blue, N. J.; Burks, Lonnie; Ezell, Ruth; Jones, Leo; Jones, Jerry; McLeroy, Betty & Bob; Miller, Norman; Mize, Red; Parish, Ronny; Porter, Lucile Childers; Rayburn, Henry; Rayburn, Sydney Ann; Rayburne, Glenn & Lorraine; Shelton, John; Shrader, Elvia; Shrader, Mary Helen Martin; Stallcup, Stephen; Swindell, Jimmy; Whitehead, Inez; Whitehead-Vaughn, Ollene-
Peach Orchard Park
Peach Orchard Park
Initial PlanOur county is 16th in the State of Texas of having domestic abuse crimes committed. The plan of PRM is to provide long-term residence for families fleeing from abusive situations. This plan will help them reduce the number of times a family returns to the abuser. This service is not provided by any other program in this city. This community will benefit from this project. And the community is very supportive.
PRM has obtained the property on Block 23 of original Town addition that belonged to the City of Alvarado. It had one building 140’x70’ with an asphalt parking lot. The tile floor in the building had asbestos. This building was removed properly.
We need to obtain the only remaining house on the block that is for sale. Obtaining this property will make the entire block PRM property. After looking at the house with Pam Rayburne of Rayburne Enterprises it cannot be used for ministry purposes. It must be destroyed or moved in order to build a free counseling, workshop, training and meeting center for individuals and groups.
PRM operates from the house on the northeast corner of the block. It functions as the ministry office and free counseling center at this time and will be until the Peach Orchard Restoration Project is complete. It has been the Counseling Center for four years.
Site preparation included:
Tearing down the building (old library) and selling the material -- removing the asbestos environmentally safely (which has been completed).
Plow and work the ground, prepare the land for drainage, gutters, sidewalks, landscape, irrigation and curbs for the peach trees and gardens around the homes.
Place a display sign on the block showing the community the project and who has contributed to this project.
Start building the 3 or 4 bay garage on the south east corner. Keep building materials in the garage at my home for security and when the garage is built start using that garage to secure the building materials of the homes.
Build the five homes for single dwellings with a common back yard and playground, well lit. Each back porch will face the common back yard. These houses will be meet American Disabilities Act (ADA), energy efficient along with being environmentally safe.
This project will be funded by donations and grants from foundations, etc. They will be obtained to meet the very specific specifications to be considered for funding.
The hope is that five families can find a transitional home and many others can obtain free council, legal assistance, Medical attention, job training, transportation, child care, good resumes, assessment, and security. We also want to address the issues of credit restoration, dental hygiene, visible tattoo removal, and self value and life skills training. Drug awareness is an issue that will need constant attention.
November 1, 2006 was the project start date with Ret. Col. Michael H. Rayburne being the General Manager of the project. Completion is anticipated by November, 2011.-
Our Construction Manager
- Harley Daughtery
Community Liaison, Building Contractor
Harley is married with 3 children and 6 grandchildren. He worked as a carpenter helper through college and has worked at Charles F. Williams Co. since 1978 as a Specialty Operations Manager.
He gave his life to Jesus in 1969 and serves on many boards in churches and around the community. An ordained deacon and minister, he is active in Kiroas Prison Ministry, Godly Geesers and Redneck Bible Study.
Harley is very active in his community, not only as a minister, but using the talents and skills God has given him to help others. He loves spending time with family and friends and playing with his 6 grandsons.
This project would not have gotten very far without Harley. Thank you so much for your hard work. -
Conception of the Plan
Conception
Well I remember my good friend relating the story of how the conception of Peach Orchard Park originated. She told of how she was sitting at her kitchen table one day, staring out at the vacant building behind her.
She remembered the time when an older neighbor had a peach orchard and she would partake of them occasionally. She suddenly thought of her block of lots becoming a haven for abused women. Houses would surround a playground for children in the center.
An insurmountable task? Why would God drop it in her heart if it wasn’t in His will. She knew she couldn’t do it. She knew God could. That’s how it all began. (Those were sure good peaches.)-
More to Come (God willing)
Waiting to See What God will Do.
This where material is stored for your future reference.
We realize people come here searching for different helps. If you do not now see what you are looking for, please be patient. This area will be growing rapidly.
All files are in PDF format unless otherwise noted.
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Debra Meeks - Dreams
- Fundamental Elements in Dream Symbol
Buildings and Places
Colors
People
Studies
Body Parts
Clothing
Creatures
Numbers
Plants and Foods
Puns and Homonyms
Transportation
The Danger of Labels
Symbol-Quick Reference (235 pgs) -
Music We Like
- Matt Redman - Christian music with a more modern sound
Web Page
Amazon Music
Carroll Roberson - Good old Gospel singing - Inspirational
Facebook
Amazon Music
David Ingles - Down home singing with heavy emphasis on the Word
Web Page
Amazon Music
Terry Macalmon - Worship music that will take you into His presence
Web Page
Amazon Music -
Reference Materials
- Bible (many good versions)
The Pursuit of God - A.W. Tozer
The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer
The Book of Mysteries - Jonathan Cahn
David Pawson - Teacher of the Word (A delightful old Englishman who tells it like it is about the Word of God)
Amazon Books
You Tube Teachings
Dr. Michael Brown - Apologist and Defender of the Faith (His ministry includes a radio show - tackles tough subjects with love)
Web Page
You Tube Teachings
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WORLD OUTREACH
- Praise God for what He has been doing in this phase of the ministry. We realized when we established a website that people all around the world would be writing in for prayer. Our minds did not yet comprehend what God might have planned for us.
We have long wanted to share details and pictures of how the Lord is moving in this outreach. We believe the new website enables us to do just that.
OTHER DOORS . . .
There are other ministries we are in contact with. They are ministering the Gospel of our Lord and remain in our prayers.
Though we have not begun any financial support for them, as always, we remain open to what the Lord would have us do. If communication continues and we come to know each other better . . . perhaps . . . God knows. -
Administrator's Testimony
- About Linda Jennings
Unfortunately, I have been in and out of Jesus most of my life. If I had "stayed in", I would have definitely saved myself much heartache. I suppose it wasn't until 1982 that my lasting commitment began.
I have tried to live my personal witness but never really felt myself "called into ministry". It wasn't until 1999 when my dear friend Paula was led to form the "Ministry of Prayer" -- and somehow she just kind of dragged me along. I didn't even consent to be on the board for several years -- even though I helped her in every way I could.
I have always been kind of a passenger on the bus instead of the driver. Behind-the-scenes is where I feel most useful. I maintain her websites, do the newsletter, graphics and printing needs. I have been in the printing industry all my life.
If there are any rewards to be had for my portion, they certainly belong to Paula. And if there is ever any glory, I gladly pass it all up to Jesus. Every time I consider His most precious gift it overwhelms me and tears flow freely. Paula has always said I was a worshiper. -
Father and Daughter Team
- Our first venture into this area was in early 2006 when a father and daughter team in India contacted us. After getting to know each other better, we began providing some support for their ministries.
These included a Church, Christian coffee shop, Bible Institute and ministry to the poor and needy. This support continued until late in 2010 when the enemy began to sow seeds of discord. A number of reasons contributed to the fact that our association with them was discontinued.
We know they have done much good work among their fellow brethren. They have a heart for ministering to the most poor and needy and we are confident that work continues on.
Ravi and Hannah will always hold them and their work in our hearts and they are remembered in our prayers. -
All Souls Ministries
- Late in 2007 we were contacted by Pastor Emeka in Nigeria. His humble request was simply for some Christian study materials to help him better minister to his small congregation.
In addition to prayer, we receive numerous requests for money and materials. Although prayer is always given, other requests are most often laid on the altar until God leads otherwise.
It wasn't until mid-2009 that the Lord brought them back to our remembrance and we contacted them again. Our communication has since grown and flourished and a great love and bond has since been established.
They have been officially recognized as our Companion Ministry. Tentative plans are in the works for people from our area to visit them in Nigeria and partake in some of their mission outreaches.
We have more to say about All Souls Ministries in the Nigeria section. -
Evangelist at Large
- Pastor Wario first contacted us in late 2009. His greatest concern was for his family and their care as he ministered the Word of God. The Spirit quickened to us the sincerity of his desires and needs.
We have since built them a home and they are now moved in. Ministry of Prayer is pleased to have been able to do this for them and they are most appreciative.
There remains a need to acquire electricity. It is not available in the area of their home and they are praying for a solar means of electricity. A drought has also prevailed for many months. His current prayer is for a cistern to be built so they may have a means to capture rain for their needs. Our prayers are certainly with them that God will furnish all their needs.
Wario is from the Moyale district of Northern Kenya and serves among the Boran speaking people. Boran communities inhabit Northern Kenya and Southern part of Ethiopia and lag behind in evangelism. In addition to speaking and mission work, he has a tape ministry which is proving to be very effective.
We currently fund frequent mission trips in both Kenya and across the border into Ethiopia. Though the muslim influence is not great in some areas, idol worship and demonic practices are.
Our feeding program there is currently supplementing the support for nine families. Pastor Wario has prayerfully selected families that are in desperate need. In addition to the monthly feeding, we also send each family on a shopping trip for clothes. Some are Christian - some are muslim - all are in need.
When we asked Pastor Wario if they built the mud huts themselves, he responded, “People do build for themselves and if not well thatched with grass or the roof covered with a polythene sheet, it will pour rain. I remember very well in my childhood our mud hut leaking rain and we covered ourselves with animal skin to avoid getting wet. When I see people living in mud huts, from my own experience, I know what it means.” -
Gekomu Fellowship
We were first introduced to Pastor Ezekiel Misati in 2016. They are located in Kisii, Mwamosioma Village in Kenya.
Through a series of communications with them, the Holy Spirit led us to believe they were a reliable ministry to aid with support. We lean on the Spirit to know what should happen in the future.
We are living in that last days and lawlessness abounds. If we can encourage or help out in any way, it would be our privilege. We seek no glory for ourselves but only that we may lift up the name of our Lord Jesus, to whom gets all glory and praise for His work of redemption.
If you would like to help this ministry, contact information is below.
Ministry Phone Number: 682-228-0221
Mailing Address is:
Paula Rayburn Ministries
Attn: Debra Rayburne Stroud
PO Box 12
Alvarado, Texas 76009
God bless you for anything you can do to help.
Of course, all gifts are tax deductible.
