A Woman's Place - Haven for the Prodigal Child (Barrilleaux)

A Haven Instructor’s Manual

by Golda Kay Barrilleaux

Table of Contents

Dedication.............................................................................................
4 Abused by man, Loved by God....................................................................
5 Introduction ..........................................................................................
7 Course of Outline.....................................................................................
9 A Special Message .................................................................................
11 Lesson One: The Prodigal Selling His Birthright............................................
12 Lesson Two: The Prodigal Came to Himself................................................
14 Lesson Three: Reconciliation.....................................................................
16 Lesson Four: Compassion of the Father......................................................
18 Lesson Five: Spiritual Paramedic’s/My Prodigal was dead...............................
21 Lesson Six: Rejoicing.............................................................................
25 Lesson Seven: The Best Robe...................................................................
27 Lesson Eight: The Ring..........................................................................
29 Lesson Nine: A Haven............................................................................
32 Lesson Ten: The Rightful Place.................................................................
37 Poem..................................................................................................
41 Glossary .............................................................................................
42 Reference ...........................................................................................43

A Haven Instructor’s Manual

All Scripture quotations are from the King James unless otherwise noted. Scripture references identified are taken from the Thompson Chain Reference Bible copyright ______by the ____________coporation and the ___________. All rights reserved.

Dedication

To my Friend, Husband, Savior, and soon coming King, thank you for loving me, forgiving me, protecting, accepting me and restoring me to your Kingdom. I love you!

In loving memory of my daddy Owens O’Quinn, Sr., who set the wonderful example of a Godly Father in my life.

Bro. Bobby Graham, Sis. Doris Graham, Rev. Kenneth Thornton, Sis. Diana Thornton and Beverly Bingham their faithful love and example of the Good Samaritans to me. What wonderful mentors of God’s Word and love.

Sis. Jo Ann Johnson and so many intercessors that never gave up on me and stood in the gap for my soul until. Thanks!

To my precious daughter, Jai’me, who has been with me through all the times of pain, restoration, tears, and joy. You have stood by me no matter what, accepted me, understood, and loved me as I am. Though times haven’t always been the best, so thankful we still stand giving all honor, glory and praise to Jesus. Thanks from my heart...love you bunches! MUM

Abused by man..........loved by God

On November 14, 1953 I was born to wonderful, God fearing parents. My home environment was directed and taught from the Holy Word of God. At the time, my parents became aware they were going to have another child; an elder in the church sent them a note that stated, “When your daughter is born, name her Golda Kay”. Now I can see how the hand of God was upon me in my mothers’ womb, as Jeremiah testified in Jeremiah 15I can also relate to the Psalmist’s words in Psalms 139:13-17 reminding me of the passage of Scripture found in Jeremiah 1:5 .“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee.” Now I understand Psalms 139:13-17 “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lower parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. How precious are thy thoughts unto me, O God; how great is the sum of them.”

I was baptized in Jesus name at the age of 12. During this time I had something happen to me as a child and as a teenager that would begin to change my life. As a result, I began withdrawing into a shell. I began to feel so unworthy, that Jesus didn’t love me, and became a very angry, bitter, and self-centered individual. My life became a numb existence everywhere I went, including church, youth activities, and camps. I eventually turned my back on the most precious gift anyone could ever have in his or her life, Jesus Christ. Soon I was snared and caught up in the things of this world, and as Paul confessed, I became the “chiefiest of sinners”.

I have gone through divorce, abortion, experimented with drugs, and have experienced physical/mental abuse. I was almost choked to death and was raped. As the Prodigal my birthright had been sold to the enemy of my soul. I was bruised, battered and broken by the sins of my life. But someone cared, and someone prayed. They stood as Rizpah did in 2 Samuel 21:10 - “And Rizpah the daughter of Ariah took sackcloth, and spread it upon the rock, from the beginning of harvest until water dropped upon them out of heaven, and suffered neither the birds of the air to rest on them by day, nor the beasts of the field by night. Because of these prayers, God in His mercy pulled me from the pit.

In 1991, at a revival where one of my childhood pastors was preaching, I found my way back to an apostolic altar and made things right with God. I had to lose everything before I could find the most important thing of all- a lasting, and eternal relationship with God. I fell in Love with the Master who became my Husband, and so began my journey of love and restoration in His hands. I am so thankful God still saw a flicker of flame within me and restored me to my rightful place in His kingdom.

During the time of my restoration God sent a wonderful couple to work with me. Their ministry of love was awesome. They were there with godly wisdom and advice when needed and applied the healing balm of God’s Word to the wounded areas. They gave me a Haven, a place of rest for my weary, abused, and heavy-laden soul. They directed me – not to psychiatrists and drugs, but to the Word of God and the door of the Father’s House. He met me there with open arms.

Permit me to share something every prodigal needs to know. God may not be easy on you when you step back onto His fold. From my own experience He may be harder on you than anyone else. So rejoice in what He will do and bring about in your life. You will not always understand, but remember He is trying to reconstruct a solid rock foundation under you, and to develop a relationship with you that will not be shaken or broken again. Trust Jesus with your life; put your future and destiny in His hands, then in His own time you will be restored to your rightful place. Your attitude and obedience to whatever He asks will determine the outcome of your relationship with Him. So rejoice when put in the fire. Rejoice when nailed to the cross. Rejoice at the time of hardships. Rejoice through your times of loneliness. Rejoice when others do not understand. Rejoice through your tears and simply offer up sacrifices of praise unto Him. Continue to be an open vessel allowing the Potter to bring about the complete work of removing the old man and restoring the new. Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, rejoice,” (Philippians 4:4).

God has made me innocent in His eyes once again. God has accepted me and is allowing me to work in His Kingdom to help restore others that are wearied by the cares of this world. Through God’s word we can overcome and be more than conquerors. Jesus is ever faithful and ready to forgive. He never sleeps nor is He ever to far away to hear your cry. The Shepherd left the 99 to find the one wayward sheep and I am so thankful He did that for me.

As Corrie Ten Boom wrote in her book “The Hiding Place” there is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still.”

Golda Kay Barrilleaux

Introduction

The Prodigal had two choices; he could choose which master he wanted to serve. The prodigal was so happy knowing he had made the right choice, but a little too late down the road he discovered the choice made was wrong, and the consequences for sinning, and rebelling against God caused his soul to be snared by worldly pleasures, riotous living, spiritual starvation, and complete spiritual destitute.

Are you a Prodigal? Longing for the Father’s House? Remember, our Father is a God of Compassion, Love, and True Friendship. May this Bible study be a beacon of light, give you Spiritual guidance and wisdom in helping to restore someone to the rightful place in God’s kingdom.

Jesus is a friend to everybody He met, and gave unconditional love. In the Word of God Jesus was ridiculed for sitting down with the sinners, the poor; the hurting, and those shun by society. Today if Jesus was robed in the flesh and walking among us, you would find Him reaching, teaching, healing, and bringing peace to a troubled soul. He would be ministering to individuals through His word, with words of encouragement, by instructing how to be saved, convicting, and binding up the wounded heart with open arms. Can we settle for less? No, His word tells us to “love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Permit me to say, every Prodigal is coming back into the fold carrying a lot of worldly sins that must be removed through prayer, fasting, and love. The Prodigal must be willing to allow God to have complete control over their life for the process of rebuilding and restoration to be done. Most Prodigal’s will struggle with the thoughts of “will God accept me again”, or “ I have done so many things wrong will God ever forgive me”. God will accept you, love, and restore you no matter where you are at, what you have done, or how deep the scars the pits of sin has left in your life. God will cover you with His wings of Love, Mercy, and Grace. God will take everything that has happened in your life and turn into stepping-stones of achievements, so that you can help others, and further His kingdom. Your past will become a fading memory and God will cast all you sins into the sea of forgetfulness, never to be remembered, or brought up again.

In today’s society, love, and friendship has become a thing of the past, and is totally distorted. The human race has abused it to a place we do not even know the true meaning of love and friendship. The world has become self-seeking, self-pleasing, “if it feels good, do it”, and nothing is a sin anymore. Because of this type of thinking, the beautiful “Cross of Calvary” has become distorted.

The world needs to be directed back to Calvary. The world is hurting. We the Holy Ghost filled saints of God have a calling upon us. We must be a Good Samaritan to unsaved souls, the hurting, and backsliders. We must offer Jesus, and the true plan of salvation to those in need of a healing touch from the Master’s Hands.

We must be His hands and feet to do that work that is needed in these last days. May we set aside our indifferences and reach out to the hurting of this world. May we get our hands dirty and lay down our life for a friend and for the sake of their soul.

Not long after I was back in church, my daughter and I decided to give some food to others and as we began to clean out our pantry, this is what was impressed upon me “if someone is cleaning out their pantry, they will pass what they do not want to someone else, if we will not eat it, why are we giving it to someone else expecting them to, why don’t you give them the same things we would want” “the very BEST.”

This is what God has so freely given us “His very best”. We must do the same with everyone we meet. John 15:13 “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man would lay down his life for his friends.” And Jesus spake this parable in Luke 15: 3-7

“ What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep, which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance

Our Father has the table spread, the royal ring, and the best garments ready for you. Jesus is looking down the road right now ready to forgive, to heal, to restore, and make your life new again. “For old thing has passed away and all things have become new.” So run down the road to your Father’s house into His open arms and watch as He miraculously restores you, and begins the beautiful tapestry of your life with His tender hands of love, and mercy. It does not matter where you are at right now, stop, consider, and return to the Father’s fold. Open up the doors to your heart and allow Jesus to come again. Let Him be “Lord of All” and allow Jesus to “rule and reign upon the throne of your heart”. Choose the right Master today and you will never regret making this choice. So make the “RIGHT” choice now.

Outline of Course........................

Lesson One
The Prodigal Selling His Birthright:

Matthew 6:24 “no man can serve two Masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

Lesson Two
The Prodigal Came to Himself:
And when he came to himself, he said, how many hired servants of my Father’s have bread enough to eat and to spare, and I perish with hunger. Are you hungry for the true peace, happiness and love you can only find from God? Then look toward your Father’s house and return home. He is waiting with open arms.

Lesson Three
Reconciliation: 2 Cor 5:19, 20, Eph 2:16, 1 Sa 29:4, Matt. 5:24.

Lesson Four
Compassion of the Father:
Compassion actually means, “to suffer with someone.” When that individual looks into your eyes what do they see, can they see you absorbing their pain. Compassion animates prayer life, without it you cannot intercede.

Lesson Five
Spiritual Paramedic’s/My Prodigal was dead:
We the church of the New Birth according to the book of Acts are Spiritual Paramedic’s to the lost, backslid and dying world. We hold the Breathe of Life in our hands. How we minister, reflect and bring life to an individual will determine the jewels in our crown.

Outline of Course........................

Lesson Six
Rejoicing:
Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep, which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.”

Lesson Seven
The Best Robe:
Isaiah 61:3 “To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

Lesson Eight
The Ring:
The ring of the Lord showing His ownership in your life has seven jewels, they are: Peace, Access, Joy, Glory in Trial, Patience, Experience, Hope, and Love.

Lesson Nine
A Haven:
Your Heavenly Father must become your Haven. A haven is: to cover; to enclose; a cove (sheltered bay): a harbor (shut in by the shore): beautiful, but chiefly good, valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use) better, fair, honest, meet, well, worthy, a place of safety, asylum: a place offering favorable opportunities or conditions (a tourist’s); A place of refuge or rest, sanctuary. A means of securing or stabilizing; an anchor!

Lesson Ten:
The Rightful Place:
You were made to praise the Lord, You were made to glorify His name In every circumstance, To find a chance to thank Him, You were made to love Him, You were made to worship at His feet and To obey the Lord, You were made for the Lord

Special Message

What an AWESOME GOD we serve!
Some 15 plus years ago, our Lord crossed our paths with Golda K who was so wounded and in need of healing. These two Scriptures were the 'spring board' to help bring her to restoration: Isaiah 58:12 and Isaiah 61:1-4. She had no idea what paths this journey would take her down, only that, no matter what she was going to serve God. She has endured much and
"To God Be The Glory"!
We are privileged to call her a "friend".
HAVEN became a word that Golda Kay used often and is being birthed
into this Bible Study to bless and help others on their journey. What
great things He has done and is doing in her life!
Bobby & Doris Graham
Walker, Louisiana

By: Jaime Kay Barrilleaux Holden, LA.

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson One “Selling of A Birthright”

Matthew 6:24 “no man can serve two Masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” The Prodigal chose to serve and waste his substance on the things of the flesh, instead of the things of God.

God teaches us in Proverbs 3:1-4 “my son forgets not my law, but let thine heart keep my commandments: for length of days and long life, and peace shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck, write them upon the table of thine heart: so shalt thou find favor and good understanding in the sigh of God and man.”

The enemy of your soul will paint a beautiful picture and cover everything sinful with beauty. The Word of God says, “He is a liar and the father of it” John 8:44. He will lie and totally lead you away from God. The greatest pleasure satan has is trapping one of God children into a web of sin, then leaving you hopeless, continue deceiving you and will lead you to total destruction.

As a backslider or prodigal begins descending spiritually “turning their back on God” these are the fruits that will become manifested in their life.

Luke 15:11-32
“And he said a certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father. Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And He divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. 14) And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.”

Galatians 5: “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. The works of the flesh are manifest, which are these:

Adultery –
A sinful act between two people outside the boundaries of marriage. Spiritual adultery - loves idols or anything more than God. Corinthians 6: 9 “ Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolators, nor adulterers, not effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind.”

Uncleanness –Morally or spiritually impure “What soever things are pure”

Lasciviousness-Lewd and lustful.

Idolatry-Worshipping other things more than God. “Thou shalt have no other

gods before me”

Witchcraft-The use of sorcery or magic; communication with the devil

Hatred – Conflict- their love for God will wax cold and they will begin to hate the

pure nature and principles of God, His Word, and church.

Variance – Disagreement, Inconsistency - there life will become inconsistent with

the will of God

Emulations-Ambition or the act to excel over others

Wrath-Strong anger, divine chastisement

Strife-Bitter conflict, blaming their situation on others, not wanting to take

responsibility fortheirownactions.

Seditions-Resistance to authority, rebellion against God, those that have authority,

and unto those who look out for their soul.

Heresies-Contrary to the Word of God, disobedience, and will believe lies

13. Envying –wanting everything to be better than someone else’s.
14. Murders-Destroying a life, hatred toward brothers and sisters in Christ 15. Drunkenness-Drunk on the pleasure of life
16. Rebelling -

And such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” The prodigal must long for the Father’s house “A Haven.”

Scripture References:

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Two
“The Prodigal Came to Himself”

Have you ever just been riding down the road and all of a sudden it feels like “a light goes on in your mind” and remembered something you needed to, well this must have happened to the Prodigal because “HE CAME TO HIMSELF”.

When he woke up, he realized how wrong the decision he made was, and how deep in the pit of sin he was, but yet those who were hired servants of His Father were being treated better

The word fain means “ gladly”. The prodigal would gladly have filled his belly with the husks the swine did eat. As he came to himself, the Prodigal realized the servants in his father’s house were better off than he was.

Why would a Prodigal give up a life full of Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, and Temperance for a life of sin? Why would the prodigal give up a home full of the presence of God, the spirit of prayer, and where the gifts of the spirit operate to live and hunger after what swine have, because sin had already crept into the door to his heart and began to take root? Because the prodigal has taken his eyes off the things of God and the things of the world was alluring him to greener pastures

When the Prodigal “came to himself” his life was full of:

Self will - Choosing to go against the will of God, his commandments and principles set forth in His word.

Selfishness – thinking of yourself and no one else, Ex: Luke 10:31-32,

Rebellion – not obeying the commandments of the Lord. Deut 11:28, I

Sam 12:15, Heb 2:3

Separation- being separated from the house of God, his fellowship and protection.

Luke 15: 16-17
And he would fain have filled is belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, how many hired servants of my Father’s have bread enough to eat and to spare, and I perish with hunger.

e. Sensuality – fulfilling the desires of the carnal flesh. Romans 1;28, Romans 8:7, Titus 1:15

f. Spiritual Destitution – Pro 14: 14, Religious indifference Mt 24:12, Unfitness for the Kingdom Luke 9:62, Bondage of forms Ga 4:9, Divine Displeasure He 10:38, Loss of Spiritual Enthusiasm Rev2:4 Emptiness of Life Luke 11:24-26

g. Abasement – lack of spiritual insight John 6:63-66, Love of the world 2 Ti 4:10

h. Starvation-from the Word of God, in the gutter of sinful living, no physical food to eat, and dying.

i. Unforgiveness: Matt 5:24
Restoration of a prodigal takes time, energy, love, and patience.

Scripture References:

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Three “Reconciliation”

Life always gets better when Jesus becomes Lord of all! Life always improves when the Master is in control. The word of God teaches “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual restore such a one in the sight of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

Oh such sweet release, what sweet joy divine when we as humans can see how we are wrong and find the place of repentance at the feet of Jesus and make every thing right. If we would humble ourselves and admit we have sinned, God is faithful and just to forgive. We must bring to the Father the right kind of sacrifice, meet for repentance.

We must realize repentance is not a weakness; it is beauty, joy, and music to our Father’s ears. In our weakness He is made stronger. He is able to teach us, and we come to understand there is one only who is perfect. That is God alone.

The thief comes only to steal, to kill and to destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Prodigal/Backslider you know what it takes to admit you have sinned against God, to make an altar, repent, be filled with the wonderful gift of the Holy Ghost, and be baptized in Jesus name. “Come home...come home. He who is weary come home. Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling oh sinner, come home.”

Reconciliation is a two way street, you must take the first step, and God will meet you the rest of the way. It is to settle or resolve, to reestablish friendship, Lordship, to restore a relationship with God. It is allowing God to become LORD OF ALL once again in your life.

Luke 15; 18-19

I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee. And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me one of thy hired servants.

Scriptures Reference:

Isaiah 53:__ “He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquity, and by His stripes we are healed.”

John 7:37-39 “On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come unto me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.”

John 10: 9-10 “ I am the gate; whoever enters through me shall be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture.

Matthew 11:28-30 “ Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Four “Compassion of the Father”

M. Scott Peck made a powerful point when he says that real love is “ the will to extend one’s self for the purpose of nurturing one’s own or another’s spiritual growth.”

Compassion, while love, as a positive emotion, extends from your heart to the person in pain. Compassion enables you to receive their pain as your own, as though you are the one suffering.

Compassion actually means, “to suffer with someone.” When that individual looks into your eyes what do they see; can they see you absorbing their pain. Compassion animates prayer life, without it you cannot intercede.

The Bible never camouflaged the weakness of people. God used David. God used Abraham. God will and can use you. Yes you are wounded, yes you are hurting, and sometimes you will break boundaries, become weak, or out of control, don’t give up. Go to the Father’s house of compassion, His Haven of Rest, His hospital (the church), and let His compassion and love flood through you. Remember there is a peace that comes from knowing God has included you in His plan even to the last details. All you have to do is allow Him to do it.

Jeremiah “I know that plan that I have for you it (finish the scripture here).... Our God knows all things, sees all things and is touched by the feeling of our infirmities. He alone understands the need for compassion and not receiving any. On Calvary, He was in need of a friend, and compassion, but instead He received vinegar. This did not deter God from doing what He was called to do. He reached out to the person beside him and gave not only forgiveness, but showed love, and gave compassion to this individual.

When is the last time you ran to someone and had compassion for the state they were in? How is the person doing sitting next to you each Sunday morning, Wednesday night, or even on the job? How is their life really going? Have we taken time to find out? Are they sleeping in God, are they hurting, have they been bruised, yes by life, man, brothers and sisters in Christ? It amazes me that we walk around thinking, “no that not true, someone in our church wouldn’t do that”, “they wouldn’t hurt you”, but yes they do. Why do we the children of the One True living God hurt one another? Then we write it off as I am “being used of God.” We must be very careful become the very reason this

Luke 15: 20-21

“And he arose and came to his father, but when he was a great way off, his father saw and had compassion and ran, and fell on his neck and kissed him

individual is withdrawn, hurting, bruised, and/or leaving God. We cannot afford to become a stumbling block in anyone’s life.....(put the scripture here).

We must follow the example of compassion and love God left us in His Word for our brethren, sisters, and everyone we meet. We are the only Jesus they will see. May we become so soaked in Him, in every fiber of our life, that Jesus is all that oozes out in our every action, word or deed. We are representatives of the Lord. We are His ambassadors.

The Apostle Paul wrote “ I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong-that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. Romans 1:11-12

1 Corinthians 13 instructs us.............

Love truly is God’s greatest gift, and its praises have never been expressed so eloquently as in these thirteen verses taken from 1 Corinthians. This time-honored passage, a favorite often read, is a simple way to say........

I LOVE YOU

Verse 1:

“If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not LOVE, I am become as sounding brass, or tinkling cymbals.”

Verse 2:

“And if I have the gift of prophesy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and if I have all the faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not LOVE, I am nothing.”

Verse 3:

“And if I give away all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not LOVE, it profiteth me nothing.”

Verse 4:

“LOVE is patient and kind. LOVE is not envious; LOVE is not arrogant or puffed up.”

Verse 5:

“It doth not insist on its own way, is not resentful, is not easily provoked, and thinketh no evil.”

Verse 6:

It rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.”

Verse 7:

“It beareth all things, it believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”

Verse 8:

“LOVE never faileth: but as for prophecies they shall fail; as for tongues, they shall cease; as for knowledge, it shall vanish away.”

Verse 9:

“For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part.”

Verse 10:

“But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall pass away.”

Verse 11:

“When I was a child, I spoke as a child. I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”

Verse 12:

“For now we see through a glass darkly: but then we will see face to face: now I know only in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”

Verse 13:

“So FAITH, HOPE, LOVE abideth, these three; but the greatest of these is LOVE.”

Jesus MUST be the LOVE of YOUR LIFE. He must become FIRST in all things in you life. He must be in complete control and rule and reign upon the throne of your heart.

“There is a name I love to hear, I love to sing its’ worth. It sounds like music in my ears, the sweetest name I know. Oh how I love Jesus, Oh how I love Jesus. Oh how I love Jesus, because He first loved me.”

Allow Jesus to love you today. Allow His love to restore, mend, bind up all broken, and wounded areas in your life. Be healed in Jesus name.

Lesson Five “Spiritual Paramedic’s”

Ever had something in your life that meant the world to you. You would do whatever it takes to see that it was protected, returned, or restored to its’ original position in your home, life or heart. This is how the Prodigal’s Father felt. He knew sin touches every aspect of man’s nature; spiritual, mental, moral, and physical (Eph 4:18, Jeremiah17: 9- 10, Titus 1:5, II Corinthians 7:5 and Romans 7:18). The Father knew His son was dead because of the sins in his life. He knew if he could get his son home “The Healer” would be in the house. Healing by its very definition takes into account the purpose, the process, the prior condition, the end result and the motive of the healers or the healing agent. The healing of the soul is the central mission of God himself.

This is where we become Spiritual Paramedic’s and breathe the Life of God back into the Prodigal or others who are hurting from the sins of their lives. Jesus showed us that we could judge the sin while we love and care for the individual placed in our care. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; Hebrews 4:14

How Do We Bring Back a Prodigal from the Dead?

A. Clear the Airway and Remove Blockages:

Sin

Rejection

Manipulations

Controls

Fear

a. Rational Fear = a result from an actual experience in which a person has been hurt

b. Irrational Fear = is met on the level of emotion, that is, by showing love and compassion. Fervent prayer successfully combats fear.

Physical needs
a. What state are they in financially, clothes, home

Doubts

Misunderstandings

Luke 15:24

“For this son was dead, and is alive again, he was lost, and is found and they began to be merry.”

Distrust of other people

By being a true friend

By assuring this individual of their worth in the sight of God.

Satanic Power

a. Pump faith scriptures into this individual

Hebrews 11:6

Romans 10:17

By Attitude:

Reach and understand their level

Show the Prodigal an accurate picture of his condition

Have compassion

Pray intently for the spiritual gifts to operate in you, Spiritual

battles requires you to fight with spiritual weapons
a. Ephesians 6:12 “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh

II Corinthians 10:3-5 “For the weapons of our warfare are not

carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

By Actions:

1. By Breathing for them
a. They may be to weak or unable to make it alone

Pray for them and with them

Prayer is the most powerful force we have. Intercede for this

individual.

Bind the power of satan

Pray for them to have courage and strength

Pray they will gain more insight and wisdom

Pray until you have victory for them

Stand on the Word of God for all directions, guidance and instructions for their every need

Befriend them

Accept him/her as a person

Keep everything you hear in strict confidence

Express your appreciation or admiration for specific traits,

qualities or actions in or by this person

Be a sounding board for his/her ideas and views

Listen actively to this person.

Keep communication open with this person

Spend time with this person. As an alternative, consider involving them in your family, job or leisure activities.

Face problems with them by showing them through the Word of God how answer for these problems can be found.

Legitimize their feelings. We must learn to affirm a person’s feelings, even when we disagree. Be careful how we react to these feelings that we do not blurt out a judgment.
a. 1 Corinthians 4:5

Do not offer words, philosophies or ideas, instead get involved, be committed, sacrifice your time, expend your energy and accept the task set before you.

“And bind up his wounds” by using the “Healing balm” of God’s Word.

Accidental wounds. “Life itself can sometimes be difficult” Remember these wounds are painful.

Lost of jobs

Broken relationships

Financial difficulties

Hit with disappointments in life

Intentional wounds ‘deeper the pain of knowing someone else deliberately did it”

Rape

Abuse

Rejection

Gossip

Slander

Other kinds of hurtful behavior

c. Self-inflicted 1.

wounds
Must deal with the reasons of why

Show love

Show Compassion

a. Go to bat for them 18. Show Commitment

a. Commit yourself for the sake of their soul

Giving of yourself

Through time

Moral support

Spiritual strength

Physical help

Love them like Jesus loves

D. By Aftercare

“Some must have physical help to leave the pit” By using our resources, which are, God, His Word, Oil and Wine, and finances to continue taking care of this individual.

“Bought them to an inn, and/or church” By giving them shelter, protection, guidance, and basic comfort necessary to restore this individual back to spiritual health and wholeness. This is a beautiful example of Jesus and the church’s role

“Took care of him” Take care of him throughout the night, by prayer, fasting, obedience to God, being available to talk, listen, guide, and comfort.

As good Samaritans we must be able to feel their pain, understand their guilt and loneliness, not condone their sins and as God set the example by showing compassion and ministering to the hurting soul of the Prodigal. Assure them that the love of God is

unselfish and eternal love a.

c. d. e. f. g. h. i.

includes them. Communicate the following truths to them.
God is love
God uniquely created each person. We are fearfully and wonderfully made.
God loves them in spite of their sins
Love caused God to find a way to redeem man from sin
God provides for each individual
Every good gift comes from God
God’s love is unsolicited and voluntary
God’s love is unconditional
God ‘s love is eternal

Scripture References:

John 15:13 “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Romans 5:8 “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

Romans 8:35, 39 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, of famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Nor heights, nor depths, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

I John 3:16 Herein is love, not that we loved God, because He laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~ Lesson Six

“Rejoicing”
In the Word of God, remember the woman at the well and how Jesus told her of her life.

She left and told others of what He had done.

Remember the little woman who lost her mite, swept and looked everywhere, and when she found it, rejoiced.

Remember the mother whose son was dead and how the prophet Elijah was used by God to restore life to her son. Do you think she kept quiet?

Have you ever stood by the bedside of someone you love, watched as life was slowly leaving and there seemed to be no hope. Then the elders of the church gathered around, prayed and God in His mercy restored life. Did you share the good news about what God had done? Of course!

Luke 15: 3-7

“ And he spake a parable unto them, saying. What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep, which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.”

What is the first thing we as humans do, we call everyone, share the good news, and we rejoice together. Everyone shares in the celebration. You prepare the every best and the favorite food. You keep them close. You make sure they feel safe, protected, clean, clothed, loved, and warm.

What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, REJOICING.”

This is how the Father of the prodigal felt when his child returned home. He even tells us “Rejoice with me for I have found my sheep, which was lost.”

Then our Lord goes on to share with us “I say unto likewise JOY shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth”

Jesus further states, “more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” What is God telling us here? He is telling us to leave our world of comforts, habits, traditions, and man-made ideas. We need to go find the unbeliever, go find the backslider, go find the son and/or daughter, parent, friend, and companion that needs the breathe of God moving and operating in their life. Be a Spiritual Paramedic for Jesus.

All of heaven will rejoice, then bring out the best food, the best garments, and Jesus will smile down from the throne upon the lost sheep returned to His fold. Then watch as Jesus begins to perform His miraculous operation in this person life of restoration.

Scripture References:

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Seven “The Best Robe”

Have you ever been riding down the road and saw someone standing with dirty clothes, shoes with holes or no shoes at all, unkempt hair, unclean teeth, tired, hungry, lonely, sad, desperate, and in need of a friend. In your heart you wanted to stop and help this person, but because of the cynicism of society today, the feeling of being unsafe caused you to pass this individual by and not offer the help you desired to give.

What would the prodigal have done if the Father of the house had treated him this way? His soul would have been condemned to the lake of fire and no mercy given. Instead the Father of the house looked beyond all the prodigal faults, and show what he could become. He didn’t pass judgment, but ordered the best robes and ring to be place on the prodigal, marking him as one of His own for all to see.

He did not allow the tradition of men to stop him from his son, or from his son being restored spiritually, mentally, physically and financially. He gave him the very best. He gave him beauty for ashes.

Isaiah 63:1-3

Verse 1:

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me: because the Lord, hath anointed me to preach good tiding unto the meek: He hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of prison.” God has appointed and anointed us to preach His gospel. He has shosed our feet with the gospel of peace. It is our responsibility through the Word of God to bind up the brokenhearted, to help bring them to complete liberty in Jesus.

Verse 2

To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;

Luke 15:22

“But the father said to his servants, bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand and shoes on his feet

Verse 3

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Verse 7

For your shame [ye shall have] double; and [for] confusion they shall rejoice in their portion: therefore in their land they shall possess the double: everlasting joy shall be unto them.

Verse 10

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh [himself] with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth [herself] with her jewels.

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Eight “The Ring”

On the ring that was given to the Prodigal were eight jewels of reconciliation.

Peace-

Access –to the throne

Joy-strength

Glory in Trial-experience

Patience-ye possess your soul

Experience-

Hope-beyond earthly life

Love-built a wall around him that no man can take down

Romans 5:1-10 teaches a Prodigal Romans 5: 1

Justification through faith brings the believer results: Peace with God
Grace
Hope

Assurance Tribulations
The Love of God The Holy Spirit

Romans 5: 2

Tribulations should be listed as a blessing of our salvation 1. Financial

2. Physical needs
3. Trying circumstance 4. Pressure of sorrow 5. Sickness
6. Persecution
7. Mistreatment
8. Loneliness

Romans 5:3

In the middle of these afflictions God enables us to seek His face more diligently and produces in us a persevering spirit and His character to overcome the trials and tribulations in life. . We are able through the grace of God to look above and beyond our present problems by using His word as our sword, shield and instruction manual and become Christian eagles to soar above the storms that will be sent our way.

Romans 5:4

We learn to overcome 1. By experience,

2. Patience and 3. Hope.

Romans 5:5

We will be able to have the love of God shed abroad in our heart to comfort us in our trials. His love
sustains us
gives us hope

continues to flood our heart Romans 5:6

Without God we can do nothing, but through Him we can do all things Faith

Joy
Strength to overcome

Romans 5:7 Romans 5:8

Calvary speaks for itself Romans 5:9

Because of Calvary we can Salvation from wrath Reconciliation to God Eternal Life

Romans 5:10

Saved by His life
The believer continues to be saved by living faith and union with
God. We become His children. He will make every provision to save us from sin, spiritual death, and spiritual destitution.

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Nine “A Haven”

A Haven

When I look around in this world and see how many individuals need a home, someone to really love them, somewhere they can lay their burdens down, find peace, rest, comfort, hope, love that passes all understanding, and a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. All that comes to mind is a Haven, God’s House, His fold, and His love. How would Jesus take care of this? How would He want us to take care of this situation? Jesus would open His arms, invite them into His house, feed them, clothe them, wash their feet, and give them peace and rest. They would be able to dine with Grace, Glory, and Peace. He would keep a light shining in the window of the house, so they can find their way home.

The doors to “A Haven” must never be shut to anyone. They should be able to know they can walk into this Haven as they are. They need to know they will be accepted in the condition they are in, but must understand, their past life must be left at the door, because a new life will begin, with a new dream, a new vision, a new destination, and their life will never be the same again.

All your old friends, such as bitterness, hurt, pain, envy, anger, jealousy, strife, destruction, sinful nature, will never be allowed to stay, they will have to leave once you step inside of Haven. A new commitment will start as soon as you stay at this house.

What is a Haven?

A cover; to enclose; a cove (sheltered bay): a harbor (shut in by the shore): beautiful, but chiefly good, valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use) better, fair, honest, meet, well, worthy, a place of safety, asylum: a place offering favorable opportunities or a God given name for a resting place in the midst of a storm.

What will a Haven be used for?

It will be a house for those in need of rest, a house where they will feel love, rind advice, friends, guidance, food, shelter, laughter, healing, understanding, and eternal hope and life.

Cover: Enclose: Cove-shelter: Harbor: Safety: Virtuous:

Beautiful:

From the beginning of creation of mankind, God has always favored or blessed those men and women who were obedient to His commandments. The Lord wants to give the Prodigal spiritual peace, protection, refuge, a harbor, a sanctuary, a means of security, stabilizing you, and becoming your anchor.

Your Heavenly Father must become your Haven.

conditions (a tourist’s); A place of refuge or rest, sanctuary. A means of securing or stabilizing; an anchor!

GOD IS YOUR:

Refuge

♥The Word of God
♥Working with others ♥Teaching His Word
♥Loving thy neighbor as thyself Strength

♥Studying the Word of God daily ♥Prayer Life
♥Fasting

Protection

♥Daily apply the armor of God

♥By keeping yourself away from anything in your pasts that will open doors for the enemy to use against you and bring you down.
♥Encourage yourself in the Lord
♥Stay around individuals who will inspire your walk and growth in God

♥Separate yourself as unto God

Anchor

♥Being Faithful
In attending church

Obedience to God ♥Keeping the Faith

Avoid discouragement ♥Being Constant

♥Refuge

Deut 33: 27 the eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and He shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.

Psa 59:16 But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.

Psa 91:2 I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

♥Safety

Psa 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.

Pro 11:14 Where no counsel [is], the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors [there is] safety.

♥Sanctuary

Exd 15:17 Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, [in] the place, O LORD, [which] thou hast made for thee to dwell in, [in] the Sanctuary, O Lord, [which] thy hands have established.

Exd 25:8 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.

Psa 134:2 Lift up your hands [in] the sanctuary, and bless the LORD.

Psa 150:1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power.

♥Rest

Psa 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

Romans 14:17 “ For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

Isaiah 26:3 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”

Phil 4:7 “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Gal 5: 22 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lust.”

John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

♥ Victory

1Ch 29:11 Thine, O LORD, [is] the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all [that is] in the heaven and in the earth [is thine]; thine [is] the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.

Psa 98:1 [[A Psalm.]] O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.

Isa 25:8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken [it].

Mat 12:20 A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.

1Cr 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

1Cr 15:55 O death, where [is] thy sting? O grave, where [is] thy victory?

1Cr 15:57 But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1Jo 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, [even] our faith.

Let your life be stepping-stones of higher heights in God that others may see and give God the glory. Allow God to make your feet like Hinds feet in His high places. Become His vessel of honor.

A Prayer for the Prodigal

Ps 31 (NIV) “Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue, and be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands, I commit my spirit; redeem me, O Lord the God of truth. I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Let your face to shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love. How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of me on those who take refuge in you”

~~~~~~~~~~~~A Haven~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lesson Ten “The Rightful Place”

Your rightful place in everywhere in the kingdom and work of God. You are now a new creature in Christ Jesus. Old things have passed away and all things have become new. The Word of God promises your sins are cast into the sea of forgetfulness, never to be remembered again.

Man has the tenacity to label humans. God does not. God will never remind you of your sins, it will either be yourself or man. When God says you are a new creature in Him, you are. Don’t allow the things of your past to hinder you from reaching your fullest potential in God.

I pray that God will send someone into your life like He did mine, that was knowledgeable in the Word of God. They will LOVE, GUIDE, TEACH, UNDERSTAND, SUPPORT, and PRAY with you UNTIL Christ be formed in you. Remember this will not be done over night; there are times you will become weary, but run to the cross, lay down at Jesus’ feet, and allow HIM to minister to your every need.

Be an open vessel, ready for the Master, be pliable clay, allowing God to mold you into the individual He needs for such a time as this in His kingdom. Do not allow what others say discourage you from reaching new heights and goals in God. Get involved, don’t sit on the pew, and do not allow self-pity to get you wrapped up in its party. Do not compare yourself with others. God has so much in store for you; you will not be able to contain it.

You were made to praise the Lord, You were made to glorify His name
In every circumstance
To find a chance to thank Him
You were made to love Him
You were made to worship at His feet and To obey the Lord
You were made for the Lord

I am a new creature in Christ Jesus, old things have passed away all things have become new.

During my time of restoration these are the areas in my life that had to become God controlled. God helped me to overcome and deal with. Do not allow any areas in your to be a stumbling block or stop you from your rightful place in God’s kingdom:

Fear: I remember when I first stepped into the church. I became so fearful because I could see the world inside the church. I literally ask God to put blinders on me so that it would not affect or hinder me. I stood on the scripture “God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of love, of power, and a sound mind.” I also has toface the fear of God leaving me. “He will never leave nor forsake you.”

Loneliness: I found this to be the time to pray more, dig deeper into the Word of God, to decrease, so that God would increase.

Not Accepted by others: When other would not accept me or allow me to be a part of their “click” I learned being separated as unto God would allow me to become more like Him and build my faith. I belong to the King of Kings and I am a child of the King. I am a rightful heir of my Father. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. My name is carved in the palm of his Hand. He knows my name and it is written in the Lambs book of Life. One day I will get to see Jesus face to face. Stay positive, focused, and have the mind that is in Christ. Do not worry about being accepted, if God accepts you, everything else will be all right.

Crying: Allow this to happen at the feet of your Lord. Here is where the healing balm of God and His Word will soothe your soul, bring you peace, bring you the joy of the Lord which is your strength.

Trials: Welcome them, become an eagle Christian during your trials. When an eagle encounters a storm, the eagle does not fly away from the storm. The eagle flies directly into the storm and continues to soar until they rise above the storm where the sun is shining. Become an eagle in the midst of trials; keep soaring until you can see the Son. Lay prostrate before God, bearing your self before Him. Become a vessel of honor. Allow God to remove or even rip out you the things that will hinder your growth in Him.

Rejection: Being rejected by family, friends, brothers and sisters in the Lord is not easy. Accept it and learn from it. Wasn’t God rejected and despised? Remember you will be to. Do not allow rejection to stay. Get rid of it, focus on Jesus and what He is preparing you to do for His kingdom. “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face and the things of this world will grow strangely dim in light of His glory and grace.”

Bitterness: Almost ate me up. I had bitterness toward a lot of people and things that had happen in my life. I remember a message preached, “when a deer is hurt, it will either go and wrap itself up in briars or go and lay down in a brook.”

Every time I felt the bitterness I would go and lie down in the brook “water of life” and allow God and His Word to wash it all away. Do not become tangled up in the briars of bitterness, it will destroy your soul and separate you from God.

Forgiveness: Chose to be a forgiver! What a wonderful thing when done through the grace of God. As mentioned in my testimony, I went through mental, verbal, and physical abuse. I was held at gunpoint and raped by the very person who said they loved me. I still to this day remember when I knew my ex-husband was coming for the first time to have visitation with our daughter. God had shared with me that upon his arrival I needed to ask his forgiveness. I struggled with this, but when the day came, I was obedient to what God ask me to do, and to this very day, I still can feel the sweet release that came. Whatever God ask you to do, do it. It will bring healing, peace and restoration to your life. God will never ask you to do something that will harm you or go against His word.

Submission: This is a hard one. While in the world we learn to be carefree and liberated instead of submissive. God does not mean we are to be doormats. There comes a time we must learn to obedient to Godly submission. Submitting to those who have authority over you is biblical and it allows the kingdom of God and His church to be taken care of in decency and order. When called upon to do this, submit because great shall be thy reward.

Finances: Follow the biblical principles concerning this and you will be blessed. Pay your tithes and give to others. When we were in our first apartment, the elderly couple who managed the apartments where warriors of the cross. This couple knew me since I was a young teenager. Every week they would go and get bread from a local store and give out evenly to all their tenants. During this time our finances was nothing, we only received enough each month to pay the electric.

“I remember sharing with my daughter something I felt impressed by the Lord to do. “If we would take our bread and save it, He would send someone in need of the bread, the bread would multiply and we would be blessed just like the fish and loaves.”

So we began doing this and God would send someone to our home. We would share the “Bread of Life” the Word of God with them in our home, and we were blessed above and beyond. Later God allowed us to have Bible Study with all the children in the complex. He is an awesome God. His Word is true and forever settled in Heaven. His Word will not return void.

Your calling: Never doubt God can call you into a special ministry for His kingdom. I can promise the way will not always be easy or accepted by others. Just keep a willing, kind, loving and humble spirit. I promise God will open the door at the right time. Just do as Samuel did, say “Yes, Lord here am I”. Whatever God has prepared for you to do, He will bring you to it, and through it.

It does not matter if it seems like a small thing and you may never know the results until heaven. Give God 100% and He will give you 200%. Maybe you are to be a Peter, Paul, and David, John the Baptist, Esther, Ruth, A Little Handmaiden, Mary, or even a Stephen. Just remember your steps are ordered of the Lord. You have been restored and called to the Kingdom of God for such a time as this. Accept it; give God the glory, bringing Him praise at the gate.

Mind: You mind will try to play tricks on you. Remember the passage of scripture that says...”let the mind in Christ be the mind in you. Have a God control mind, turn it completely over to Jesus for renewing daily through reading of the Word and prayer. You will be ok.

Testimony: Share you testimony. You will never know the difference it will make in someone’s life.

Giving: What you mete out....(put scripture here)
Sitting at the feet of Jesus: What such beautiful times together sitting at His

feet. Scripture of Mary and Martha here.

Obedience: (put scripture here)(obedience is better than sacrifice)

Guilt: This is the complete trick of the devil. Therefore is no guilt or condemnation to those who walk uprightly (put scripture here). This is the enemy of your soul favorite game, to make you feel guilty about everything, to remind you about all “the past”. All you have to do is remind him you’ve read the end of the book and know what is going to happen to him.

Separation: be ye separated scripture. Crave it! Desire it! Be totally separated unto God, walk as one within Him.

The Word of God: Love it! Live it! Breathe it! Eat it! It must become you every thought, action and deed. Write it upon the tables of your heart, do not depart from it and it will become a lamp unto your feet and the light unto your path.

Oppression: (studying this one for more understanding)

Little Foxes: Be careful for little foxes can spoil the vine. Little foxes can cause you to become discouraged and move away from God. Remove the little foxes through prayer and fasting. Do not allow them to hang around.

Quiet Waters

There is a power far beyond what we can imagine
But first we must enter into His fold It is strength from the Lord Reach out and take hold

A narrow path it is Follow Him closely, never stray Take each footstep He takes The Lord will show us the way

The Shepherd caring for his sheep restoring the soul Troubles and weights of the world wearing each of us down
Let Him comfort and console

He leads us beside quiet waters with a heavenly guarantee A promise of refreshment Drink life's water free

Glossary Prodigal

Characterized by profuse or wasteful expenditure: LAVISH; recklessly spendthrift

Redemption

to buy back :REPURCHASE b : to get or win back to free from what distresses or harms:: to free from captivity by payment of ransom: to extricate from or help to overcome something detrimental: to release from blame or debt : CLEARED to free from the consequences of sin to change for the better : REFORM, REPAIR, RESTORE: to free from a lien by payment of an amount secured thereby: to remove the obligation of by payment: to exchange for something of value *redeem* to make good : FULFILL to atone for : EXPIATE *redeem an error* to offset the bad effect of (2) : to make worthwhile : RETRIEVE see RESCUE

Haven

References

-King James Bible
-Thompson Chain-Reference Bible
-The Full Life Study Bible
-Bible Series for Women Book 1
-The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible
-Healing Evangelism “A Fresh Approach to Outreach” of the First Apostolic Church of Toledo Ohio