twentyfour7 issue 16

twentyfour7 Issue 16.indd 1 3/9/07 20:19:17

A pArtner is A shArer, an associate, one who engages with another in business, one who plays on the same side as another.

pArtnership is importAnt – It releases power to get the job done. We can accomplish the Great Commission together in unity.

pArtnership in prAyer – We believe it is vital for every partner to develop a strong personal prayer life, and to pray for the leadership for godly wisdom and direction from the Lord.

pArtnership in cAring – We are instructed to watch over and take care of the partners in our charge (Acts 20:28).

pArtnership in shAring – The whole ministry of sharing is to give oneself in the areas of love, time, talents and finances.

Account DetAils uniteD KingDom Allied Irish Carmel Christian Centre sort code: Account no: 23-85-85 00709260Should you wish to donate by Gift Aid please contact the church office. south AfricA Anchor Ministries International First National Bank, Cresta Branch sort code: Account no: 25-49-05 51440080590

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carmel: ministries international is a registered charity (Charity No. 1094052) with Luke 9:2 as its mission statement. All finances sown go into the work of establishing God’s Kingdom through evangelism and preparing labourers for the harvest.

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from BAth Follow A4 towards Bristol, bypassing Keynsham, to the Park-and-ride (on your left) on the outskirts of Bristol, just before traffic lights. At these lights proceed straight (in outside lane) for approx. 150 yards (McDonald’s on your right). hSBC Bank follows on your right. Immediately before the Bank, take the driveway along its right, between the buildings. carmel:centre is behind hSBC.

from m4 J19 Proceed towards Bristol along M32 to J3. Leave M32 at J3 heading left onto dual carriageway, following signs for A4 and Bath. Approach the next roundabout in left lane and continue to follow signs for A4 Bath, to traffic lights. Proceed straight on and over a high level bridge, descending to another roundabout. Proceed straight on, in right hand lane, to next roundabout. Leave this roundabout to the right with Sainsbury’s on your left. Keep in left hand lane and go straight on at next two sets of lights which come a short distance apart. *

from Bristol centre Follow signs for A4, passing Temple Meads Station. Follow A4 to traffic lights with Burger King on your left and hTv studios on your right Go straight on at these lights and the others which follow at a short distance. *

*The A4 continues uphill, through a series of traffic lights and a short section of one-way road with a bus lane on the left. The road descends to a garage on your left at the bottom, then ascends to traffic lights. Keep in left hand lane and proceed straight on. Continue to next traffic lights, then go straight on. You are now approaching carmel:centre on your left which is not easily sighted. Look for hSBC bank on your left and turn left into the driveway along its right, between the buildings. carmel:centre is behind hSBC.

s e p t e m B e rsAt 8 empoWereD Women’s BreAKfAst 8.30Amfri 14 positive pArenting conference 7.00pmsAt 15 positive pArenting conference 9.00Am – 12.30pmsAt 15 positive pArenting conference 6.30pm mon 17 cBc registrAtion 9.15Am – 3.00pmtues 18 – fri 21 cBc orientAtion WeeK 9.15Am – 12.30pmsAt 22 vAlient men’s BreAKfAst 8.30Ammon 24 cBc commences fri 28 All night prAyer 10.00pm – 6.00Am

o c t o B e rsAt 6 empoWereD Women’s BreAKfAst 8.30Amthu 11 positioneD for Blessing 6.15pm – 10.00pmfri 12 positioneD for Blessing 6.15pm – 10.00pmsAt 13 positioneD for Blessing 9.00Am – 4.00pmmon 22 to sun 28 hAlf term BreAKWeD 24 to sun 28 A goD thing! – the poWer of one mon 29 cBc & clA resumesWeD 31 ccs resumes

n o v e m B e rsAt 3 promise of purity 9.30Am – 4.30pmfri 9 – sun 11 vAliAnt men’s ADvAncemon's & fri's 12,16,19,23,26,30 AnointeD mArriAge 6.15Am – 10.00pmsAt 24 empoWereD Women’s BreAKfAst 8.30Am All night prAyer vigil 10.00pm – 6.00AmD e c e m B e rsAt 1 AnointeD mArriAge ceremony 2.15pm fri 14 ccs, cBc & clA close for holiDAys sAt 15 promise of purity ceremony 6.30pmsAt 22 vAliAnt men’s BreAKfAst 8.30pm christmAs plAy 6.30pmsun 23 christmAs plAy 6.30pmmon 24 – WeD 2 JAn church offices closeDtues 25 christmAs DAy service 9.00Am – 10.00AmWeD 26 BoXing DAy mon 31 neW yeAr’s eve pArty 9.00pm


servicesSATUrDAY NIGhT 6.30 PMSUNDAY MorNING 8.30 AMSUNDAY MorNING 10.30 AM

contAct DetAilscArmel:centre 817A BATh roAD, BrISLINGToN, BrISToL BS4 5NL

t: (0117) 977 5533f: (0117) 977 5678W: WWW.CArMeLCeNTre.orG

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eXecutive eDitors: GerrI AND MICheLLe DI SoMMA, eDitor: LYN BIrDSALL suB eDitor: JULIAN CLArKe, copyWriters: LYN BIrDSALL, LAUrIe SKeLToN trAnscriBers/proofreADers: ANNe PeLC, ASIA GreGorY, JADe MUMUNeY, JohN SToCK, LAUrIe SKeLToN (Cre8IoN:eDITorIAL).Design/Art Direction: DArreLL IrWIN, LoULITA DI SoMMA, NAThAN LoGAN, roSIe ISBeLL, FLeUr ISBeLL, SIMoN CoWLING (Cre8IoN:PrINT), photogrAphy: TIM BYrNe, DArreLL IrWIN, JULIAN CLArKe, (Cre8IoN: PhoToGrAPhY) printers: YeoMANS PreSS

Bible quotations are from the New King James version unless stated otherwise.

For CoMMeNTS AND SUGGeSTIoNS For The NeXT 24:7 PLeASe eMAIL US AT [email protected]

carmel:‘he SeNT TheM To PreACh The KINGDoM oF GoD AND To heAL The SICK.’ luKe 9:2

APPROX. 4 MILES TOBRISTOL CITY CENTRE

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carmel:

carmel: 24:7 is published by carmel: ministries international. reproduction of this publication in part or whole is prohibited.

carmel: christian school and carmel: bible college continue to expand. the holidays have been spent re-arranging our building to make extra classroom space. We continue to trust god for a more permanent solution for the whole of carmel: centre as we ‘multiply to occupy.’

once again, we marvel at how God speaks and confirms his Word to us. Dr Corne Bekker (see pages 6-7) spoke on the importance of knowing God as our source. Unknown to Dr Bekker, his teaching re-iterated both of our own teachings for this edition. Pastor Gerri exhorts us not to become distracted from our relationship with God on our journey of faith, (pages 8-10) and Michelle reveals how remaining strong is essential on this journey.

Two exciting conferences are scheduled. ‘Positive Parenting’ in September equips adults to train children God’s way. 'agodthing!' Conference in october is always extra special as we make time to gather together and worship over a longer period. In addition to the anointed ministry and teaching at this year’s Conference ‘the power of one’, carmel: will be launching its first children’s praise and worship album – ‘God is Good’. We encourage you to plan and purpose to be there and celebrate with us as one body.

GerrI AND MICheLLe DI SoMMA

ALL TeAChINGS IN ThIS eDITIoN Are ABrIDGeD. FULL verSIoNS Are AvAILABLe To orDer oN CD or DvD. CoNTACT US ToDAY USING The DeTAILS BeLoW.

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UNITeD NATIoNS

'All the ends of the world shall remember and turn to the lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you.'

over thirty nations regularly worship God at carmel: centre making psalm 22:27 a reality. A recent community outreach was a huge success as friends, families, and neighbours joined us.

The atmosphere was dynamic and energised. Different races, cultures, tribes and nations came together as a body, expressing their uniqueness through music, dance and drama. Many languages were heard and there was a vibrant, colourful array of national costumes and a display of each nation’s flag.

No matter what cultural backgrounds visitors came from, for many this unforgettable evening became the start of their new life in Christ and the family of God.

carmel:’s first youth conference kicked off with a media presentation by cre8ion accompanied by a thumping soundtrack and inspiring visuals. A powerful time of worship followed and attendees participated in a time of spontaneous dance and praise.

Young adults from 15 to 30 had accepted the challenge to become equipped with the power to overcome pressures and temptations, to learn to live life to the max and become ambassadors for Christ. Throughout the conference, they were taught and encouraged in their faith, loyalty, integrity and purity.

They have discovered that it’s not a mission impossible but a mission incredible. It’s their mission and they have chosen to accept it. The youth conference succeeded in inspiring a generation sold out to God, unashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

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MISSIoN INCreDIBLe '07

carmel:’s first youth conference kicked off with a media presentation by cre8ion accompanied by a thumping

MISSIoN INCreDIBLe '07

DARRELL


c:view highlights some of the major events in carmel: ministries international since our previous issue of 24:7. For more information contact carmel: on 0117 977 5533 or email [email protected]

LATeST NeWS

BrIDGING The GAP

If you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, we invite you to take a step of faith to change your life!

WhAt the BiBle sAys: God made you in his image genesis 1:27 The sin of unbelief separates you from God isaiah 59:2 God provided the way back through giving his Son Jesus Christ John 3:16 The way back is through the cross 1 peter 2:24 You receive Jesus by faith as a free gift, not earned or deserved romans 6:23

steps to sAlvAtion: >>01 Acknowledge: that you’re a sinner and need Jesus

>>02 repent: ask God for his forgiveness

>>03 Believe: that Jesus paid the price for your sins

>>04 receive: invite Jesus to come into your heart and life

>>05 confess: that Jesus is your Lord and Saviour

>>06 thank him!

simply prAy the folloWing prAyer: Dear heavenly Father, I confess that I am a sinner and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and was sent to die and be raised again so I could be forgiven and have eternal life. I ask you into my heart and life. I thank you this is the beginning of a new life with you and I confess you as my Lord and Saviour.

If you prayed this for the first time, contact us and let us know. We would love to help you with your new life! Contact us using the details on the inside cover (page 3).

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From Australia to Zimbabwe and beyond, church leaders enjoy ‘A Word in Season,’ monthly messages that feed, refresh and sustain wherever you live. receive a CD or view online and download.

register for your free monthly message! Tel: 0117 977 5533 or email: [email protected] view: www.carmelcentre.org

SPeAKING oUT reSPoNSIBLY

carmel: ministries international is demonstrating god’s love by bridging the gap between ‘the church’ and the community, establishing outreach centres in towns within forty five minutes drive from carmel: centre in Bristol.

carmel: bridgwater, led by rev Michael and Mrs vicky Fletcher, opened on 1st July. The first meeting was well attended by locals and supporters from carmel: centre, Bristol, getting to know each other during refreshments before the service. rev Gerri Di Somma spoke on how the disciples went from town to town preaching the kingdom of God and healing the sick, which is the corporate vision of carmel: ministries international.

24:7 spoke to vicky Fletcher, who said, ‘It’s encouraging to see how people have taken responsibility for the vision and very exciting seeing it in action.’

cArmel: BriDgWAterp o W e r W i t h i n r e A c h carmel:

the evangelical Alliance (eA) invited local churches to a meeting entitled ‘engage’. more than fifty percent of the attendees were represented by carmel: in full support of their purpose – to challenge, inspire and encourage christians to uphold biblical values in society and protest against unjust legislation.

Key speakers included Dr Don horrocks, head of eA Public Affairs. The panel offered their knowledge, experience and advice, encouraging believers to actively engage with government and with the media. A reporter from a Christian magazine stressed the value of regular submission of information to the local press to raise awareness of what the church is doing in the local community.

The eA asked rev Di Somma to close in prayer and thanked him for the support and involvement of carmel:.


Dr Bekker challenged the graduates to know the source of their ministry, admonishing them to perform the Gospel, fearing and loving nothing but God.

The graduation ceremony is an outward expression of an inner work which occurs in every student at cbc: We now have the privilege of seeing how the graduates continue to fulfil God’s plans and purposes for their life. We trust they bear the fruit of their labour through on-going commitment to study and to do God’s Word. It was an honour and a privilege for the faculty of cbc: to have played a small part in the training and equipping of this generation of labourers. each student is now qualified with the necessary life skills to make a difference.

rev Gerri and Michelle Di Somma were presented with a gift and flowers as a token of appreciation and love for them both. Without their obedience, commitment and sacrifice cbc: would not exist and we would be unable to disciple as God commands. We thank God for the integrity, wisdom and humility with which they lead and for upholding the foundation of spirit and truth upon which the Bible College resides.

We give God all the glory. We look forward to the next intake of students in September 2007, trusting God at all times to lead, direct and guide us as cbc: fulfils its role in the vision of carmel: ministries international – to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

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The eLeveNTh GrADUATIoN ServICe – The FIrST AS CArMeL: BIBLe CoLLeGe (PrevIoUSLY KNoWN AS ANChor BIBLe TrAINING CeNTre) TooK PLACe oN SATUrDAY 7Th JULY AT CArMeL: CeNTre. FAMILY AND FrIeNDS ATTeNDeD ThIS verY SPeCIAL CereMoNY AMID AN ArrAY oF FLAGS FroM over 30 NATIoNS WhICh CoLoUrFULLY rePreSeNTeD CUrreNT AND PrevIoUS GrADUATeS.

this year cbc: graduated 40 first year students with a ‘certificate of merit’ and 17 second year students with a ‘Diploma in ministerial training’. carmel: leadership academy graduated 11 students with a ‘Diploma of Distinction’. the graduates were individually presented with their certificates and some with awards of special merit.

The carmel: ‘ministers in training’ programme heralded its first graduate and the ordination of Gordon Bimha. hands were laid on Gordon and his wife Bridget, a former cbc: graduate, in public acknowledgement of the giftings and divine call on their lives.

The guest speaker was Dr Corné Bekker from virginia, U.S.A., bringing a timely word to the graduating students. Dr Bekker currently serves at regent University as an associate professor at the ‘School of Global Leadership and entrepreneurship’. he previously served as the Assistant Dean of rhema Bible College, Johannesburg, S.A., before being invited to the faculty at regent.


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GrADUATIoN '07

A type of ordination took place when Jesus was set apart to minister. matthew 3:16,17 describes how the Spirit of God descended like a dove, alighting upon Jesus and God’s voice from heaven declared, ‘this is my beloved son, in whom i am well pleased.’ Jesus started his ministry with three things:

>>1 AN oPeN heAveN

>>2 The SPIrIT oF GoD DeSCeNDING UPoN hIM, ANoINTING hIM For MINISTrY

>>3 A verY CLeAr WorD FroM GoD

Your ministry starts in the same way. You have an open heaven before you because of Christ’s sacrifice, you have received the holy Spirit, you are anointed for service and you are loved by God. This should be the source of your ministry.

MINISTrY IS TeSTeD

You will be tested in the natural man – as was Jesus – and tempted to draw on natural instead of spiritual resources. matthew 4:1-11. We are all born with basic needs – to survive, to be loved and esteemed and to have power over our own lives. But it is God’s job to secure your survival, not yours, and he is the source of your love and esteem, your power and control.

Peter was similarly tested. Peter was the example of the best and the worst disciple. At his worst he drew on his natural resources, in fear for his own survival, by the desire for love and esteem and not wanting to risk losing power and control. his source transferred to the natural, Peter denied Jesus luke 22:55-62. When he returned, repentant, to his spiritual source, he was restored and his powerful ministry continued.

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The SoUrCe oF LIFe

When life gets tough we often go back to the things that we do naturally. The disciples went back to their previous trade, fishing, because they were hungry. They fished the whole night, working hard, but caught nothing. John 21:3. There are many shortcuts in life, but a shortcut is never a shortcut – it’s a very long road when we fail to look to Christ as our source.

survival and securityJesus stepped in and performed a miracle, providing the disciples with a plentiful catch. he then cooked breakfast for them. John 21:6-9. Jesus was demonstrating that survival and security is his issue.

love and esteemPeople enter ministry for the right reasons, but stay for the wrong ones. They stay to fulfil their instinctive needs. Thinking the ministry is a place where they will be esteemed, they love the applause. or they wrongly measure their success by the numbers in the congregation, by how much money comes in or the frequency of ministry. The issue of esteem and affection belongs to God.

power and controlMany people think the ministry is an opportunity to exhibit power and control over others, causing others to ‘bow down’ to them. The Word makes it very clear that we are to worship no-one but the one true God. exodus 20:3. Let God be the source of your power and control.

As graduates at the beginning of your ministry, you stand at the beginning of an incredible walk with god. Allow him to be your source – draw from him in everything. your life is the sermon. go forth and perform the gospel.

AN ABrIDGeD verSIoN oF Dr cornÉ BeKKer's TeAChING FroM ThIS YeAr'S GrADUATIoN

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>>'PeoPLe eNTer MINISTrY For The rIGhT reASoNS, BUT STAY For The WroNG oNeS.' Dr cornÉ BeKKer<<


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>>oFTeN GoD’SWILL DeFIeS hUMAN LoGIC. The KeY IS To Go oNLY Where AnD When GoD SAYS.<<

To guard against distraction we must recognise it, acknowledge when we have wandered away from God and know how to get back on track.

Abraham is an example of one who was distracted, sinned, fell and overcame. he is remembered for his willingness to sacrifice the life of his son Isaac – the ultimate test of faith.

every believer’s faith is tested by various distractions throughout life. When people experience crisis, it’s usually because one or more of their basic needs for love, purpose, safety and security are threatened. even Jesus was tested in these areas but when his distraction came, he knew how to deal with it. he did not succumb to the temptation to meet these needs in his own ability but continued to draw from the life of god. god wants us to do the same.

even though Abraham knew that the promises God had made concerning future generations could only be fulfilled through Isaac, Abraham did not question God.

Abraham learned obedience the hard way Before passing his supreme test, he became distracted on several occasions when, but for God’s grace, the outcome would have been disastrous.

God called Abraham, revealed his promises and then desired separation from the things that held him captive. Next came the journey of faith, which is where we meet Abraham in genesis 12:8-13:4. he had just begun his journey and life was good. God had promised great things, including the land Abraham was already in. he built an altar there as a spiritual reminder of what God had done and pitched his tent as a sign he was there to stay. But then Abraham became distracted.

hAve life’s pressures or circumstAnces ever cAuseD you to Become siDetrAcKeD from WhAt you KnoW goD WAnts you to Do?

hAve you mADe Decisions thAt seemeD right At the time But only leD to more proBlems? hAve there Been occAsions When you stoppeD heAring goD? felt thAt you’ve lost Direction AnD purpose in life?

hAve you mADe Decisions thAt seemeD right At the time But only leD to more proBlems? hAve there Been occAsions When you stoppeD heAring goD? felt thAt you’ve lost Direction AnD purpose in life?


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TeAChING

This is always lack of intimacy with God. Intimacy with God requires open communication, trusting him, asking him to meet your needs. Faith results in answers, enabling you to take authority over your circumstances.

When you lose intimacy with God, circumstances dictate to you, and your faith becomes weak. You become dis-tracted, slip further and further away and no longer hear God, which is what happened to Abraham. In the face of famine, Abraham’s faith had weakened. Crisis escalated as he moved out of obedience to God into distraction and disobedience. Abraham did not ask or get God’s directive to move, nor did he build altars to worship. his life was out of order.

A Logic then became his god. Decisions become based on intellect, or ‘common sense’. It appeared logical to move household, labourers and livestock away from the famine, but it was not God’s plan.

often God’s will defies human logic. The key is to go only where and when God says.

B Circumstances now moved him. Abraham began taking control when he started doubting God’s ability to keep his promises and to provide. Circumstances dictated that he should go to egypt to find food for his family.

Many Christians flee from ‘the place of famine’ through lack of faith in God. You either stand against trials and strengthen your faith, or cave in to it, further weakening your faith. 2 peter 3:17.

If God has spoken, don’t allow circumstance to dictate to you. Ten years ago we obeyed when God called us to the south of Bristol. Many advised against it, because it was the poorest area. had we listened we would have missed God’s purpose, blessing and provision for ourselves and many others.

>>1 The PLACe oF DISTrACTIoN

>>2 The PhILoSoPhY oF DISTrACTIoN

This is turning to one’s own ability instead of God to meet one’s needs.

one of the hardest things to do during trials is to wait. This was part of Abraham's downfall which drew him further into distraction. Abraham became impatient, leaving the Promised Land and preventing his faith being proven.

Instead, he caved in to pressure from family, household and labourers. he was driven by his basic needs – fear of losing his herds, business and financial security, fear that his labourers might desert him and leave no-one to care for his family and business holdings.

the philosophy of distraction says: i I am on my own and must control the situation. ii I must do what is best for everyone. iii I must do whatever it takes to survive (even if it’s illegal). iv The end justifies the means.

the real problem is: i I'm unable to hear God; I don’t want to admit I’m in rebellion.ii Pride; I don’t want people to think I don’t know what to do. iii At least I’m doing something – even if it’s not right. iv By doing something I divert attention from the real crisis – my relationship with God. Abraham didn’t fool God by taking action when famine came.

>>3 The MeANS oF DISTrACTIoN

When we lack intimacy with God and take control of our own lives, we hide and cover our sin with lies and deception, slipping deeper into sin as we make more and more ungodly choices. Let Abraham’s actions be a warning.

i Abraham entertained evil thoughts then plotted evil. Abraham began judging others by the evil in his own heart, the place where deception and distraction are entertained long before being voiced.

As they approached egypt, Abraham had been speculating that egyptian men might kill him to satisfy their lust with Sarah.

Driven towards self-survival by such thoughts, he told Sarah to pretend she was his sister and not his wife.

They had different mothers but the same father, so although Sarah was his half sister, a half truth is a full lie.

five FACTorS reLATING To DISTrACTIoN


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>>hoWever GreAT The SIN, GoD ALWAYS reCeIveS, ForGIveS AND rIChLY BLeSSeS everY TrULY rePeNTANT SINNer Who TUrNS To AND FoLLoWS hIM.<<

ii Abraham acted selfishly. Abraham had wandered so far from God that he allowed Sarah to be taken into Pharaoh’s house as a possible wife.

Abraham was willing for Sarah to be sexually abused, to commit adultery and bigamy, to be dishonoured and her very life to be endangered.

iii Abraham manipulated sarah. Abraham knew that God’s heir would come through Sarah. he should have been protecting her and trusting God to bring his Word into being. When a husband is in deception, his wife is unsafe because he will manipulate her for his own benefit and his children go unprotected.

Abraham manipulated Sarah into believing this deceitful plan was for her own good. If she refused to comply, he might be killed and she would be at the mercy of his murderer.

iv Abraham deceived pharaoh. Abraham allowed Sarah to expose her beauty to other men’s eyes and attract Pharaoh’s attention.

he then deceived Pharaoh into believing she was available for marriage and could be bought with the customary dowry.

v Abraham stole from pharaoh. Pleased with Sarah, Pharaoh paid Abraham for her with large herds and herdsmen.

Abraham illegally but willingly received this from the unsuspecting Pharaoh and allowed her to be taken.

vi Abraham refused to correct the wrong. evil now gripped Abraham’s heart and he became consumed with his wealth. At no point did he put things right.

Distraction leads to compromise, to sin, to suffering and to God’s judgement. Many suffer unnecessarily, family first then others. Both the guilty and the innocent become hurt.

i there was judgement upon pharaoh, though he had acted in innocence, and his household was stricken by a severe plague.

ii there was judgement on the sinning believers Abraham and Sarah. They suffered:

• public exposure of their willingness to take part in a deceptive plot.

• public rebuke because of their public sin; they were shamed by the world that they should have helped.

• public expulsion and eviction from egypt.

Nothing gained by deception ever benefits and Abraham’s wealth could not correct his situation.

Abraham was disgraced as the sins he conceived and committed in secret were publicly exposed. Abraham had displaced himself from the Promised Land and from fulfilling his destiny. he had failed God miserably.

Seek God. There is no other cure but God’s way:

i repentance. Abraham literally turned around and separated from egypt, from ungodliness and worldly lusts.

ii returning to the place where God was last heard. Abraham went back to the Promised Land where he had last communicated with God.

iii reconciliation to God. Abraham renewed worship and submission to God.

however great the sin, God always receives, forgives and richly blesses every truly repentant sinner who turns to and follows him. 2 chronicles 7:14 and isaiah 55:7.

Abraham now lived in the midst of a famine, but we hear nothing further concerning his suffering because he had repented, returned and was reconciled to God.

he was no longer relying on his own ability but was trusting God who was meeting his every need.

if you’ve become distracted and wandered away from god, don’t suffer the consequences but seek the cure. Do whatever it takes to renew and maintain your relationship with him.

then his mercy, blessings and presence will permeate your life as you continue your journey of faith and you will influence others to follow you.

>>4 The reSULT oF DISTrACTIoN >>4 The reSULT oF DISTrACTIoN

>>5 The CUre oF DISTrACTIoN


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‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.’ proverbs 3:5,6.

See WhAT hAPPeNS WheN PeoPLe PUT TheSe WorDS INTo PrACTICe AND TrUST GoD IN The ChALLeNGeS TheY FACe.

I was a junior doctor at a local hospital. earlier this year the number of positions was being cut down by ten thousand across the country. This meant that we all had to re-apply for our jobs. So I applied along with everybody else, but didn’t get an interview, so my chances of becoming a consultant were drastically reduced.

I prayed and God spoke to me through Jeremiah 29:11,12 which says ‘for i know the thoughts that i think toward you, says the lorD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. then you will call upon me and go and pray to me, and i will listen to you.’

I was invited to an interview and although I had applied with hundreds of others for only a very few jobs, I became one of the successful applicants. Prayer works!

ADZIrA ThALAL

recently my Mum telephoned me to let me know that my Dad had been rushed into a general hospital with a suspected heart attack.

She told me that he had immediately been put under observation on a heart monitor, then he had been rushed to a specialist heart hospital about five miles further away for treatment.

overCoMeAs soon as Mum had finished telling me, we immediately began praying. Despite the medical evidence I had heard, I believed without a doubt that Dad would be fine. I knew that the results would come out negative and that he would be released the next day.

That was exactly what happened. he got the all clear and was sent home the very next day.

ANDY SToCKINGer

My wife, one son and myself were all students in carmel: bible college, and our other son a pupil at carmel: christian school. We lived a long way from carmel: centre and it was very difficult to get there every day by bus with my family.

So I prayed for a car, in accordance with matthew 21:22, which says, ‘…whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.’

Shortly afterwards, somebody came to me, and said, ‘I have a present for you.’ And they told me that in a few days I could take my present home. It was a very nice car and even the tax was paid. Now it is easy for my family to get to Bible College, school and to church. It is so simple – prayer works.

vALeNTINe ATUDoSIe

I was a junior doctor at a local hospital. earlier this year

else, but didn’t get an interview, so my chances of

I prayed and God spoke to me through

to give you a future and a hope. then you will call upon me and go and pray to me, and i will listen to you.’

I was a junior doctor at a local hospital. earlier this year the number of positions was being cut down by ten

else, but didn’t get an interview, so my chances of becoming a consultant were drastically reduced.

‘for i know the thoughts that i think toward

upon me and go and pray to me, and i will listen to you.’

with hundreds of others for only a very few jobs, I became

the number of positions was being cut down by ten

becoming a consultant were drastically reduced.

you, says the lorD, thoughts of peace and not of evil,

I was invited to an interview and although I had applied

one of the successful applicants. Prayer works!

I prayed and God spoke to me through

to give you a future and a hope. then you will call upon me and go and pray to me, and i will listen to you.’

with hundreds of others for only a very few jobs, I became

which says

one of the successful applicants. Prayer works!

I was invited to an interview and although I had applied with hundreds of others for only a very few jobs, I became

my Dad had been rushed into a general hospital with a

00:12.39

00:10.24

00:08.47

PrAYer WorKS

11

>>4 The reSULT oF DISTrACTIoN >>4 The reSULT oF DISTrACTIoN

>>5 The CUre oF DISTrACTIoN


MICheLLe DI SoMMA, Co-FoUNDer oF cArmel: MINISTrIeS INTerNATIoNAL AND heAD oF cArmel: WoMeN’S MINISTrY hAS BeeN TeAChING A SerIeS eNTITLeD, ‘WhAt’s your WAlK?’ ToDAY’S TeAChING CoNCLUDeS The SerIeS, AND eXhorTS US To Be:

We hAve leArnt thAt goD hAs A plAn AnD purpose for eAch of us AnD thAt he Directs us toWArDs our Destiny if We folloW the pAth he hAs orDereD.

>>1 strong people WAlK By fAith AnD not By sight 2 corinthians 5:7

God had ordered the steps of the Israelites, wanting them to take possession of the land that belonged to them. numbers 13. They had been freed from egypt, had seen God’s glory, miracles, signs and wonders and they knew God’s promise for their future. Yet many of them grumbled, turned away from him and wanted to return to egypt

Nearing the Promised Land, spies had been sent ahead to check it. They reported that it flowed with milk and honey, but it was inhabited by strong people whose cities were fortified. They exaggerated that they had seen giants and cannibals, which alarmed the Israelites.

psAlm 37:23 TeLLS US, ‘the steps of A gooD mAn Are orDereD By goD.’The WorD For ‘MAN’ reFerS To A PerSoN Who IS STroNG. IN oTher WorDS, We NeeD To Be STroNG For GoD To DIreCT oUr STePS.

LeT US ThereFore FoCUS oN The IMPorTANCe oF BeING STroNG AND DISCover hoW We CAN reMAIN STroNG AS We WALK GoD’S WAY.

LeT US eXAMINe AND LeArN FroM The ChArACTerISTICS oF STroNG PeoPLe Who hAve WALKeD BeFore US.

>>WAIT oN The LorD;Be oF GooD CoUrAGe,

AND he ShALL STreNGTheNYoUr heArT; WAIT, I SAY,

oN The LorD!psAlm 27:14<<

12


TeAChING

13

TeAChING

13

MICheLLe DI SoMMA, Co-FoUNDer oF cArmel: MINISTrIeS INTerNATIoNAL AND heAD oF cArmel: WoMeN’S MINISTrY hAS BeeN TeAChING A SerIeS eNTITLeD, ‘WhAt’s your WAlK?’ ToDAY’S TeAChING CoNCLUDeS The SerIeS, AND eXhorTS US To Be:

The spies spoke out what they felt, which increased and spread doubt and unbelief. Strong people won’t follow this example, but will speak strength into their lives by declaring what the Word says, ‘…i am strong.’ Joel 3:10.

Strong people continuously renew their strength by ‘waiting’ on the Lord. isaiah 40:31. ‘Wait’ means being bound, woven together and participating with God. It speaks of intimacy, of allowing God to be an integral part of everyday life, living completely entwined with him.

>>4 strong people get stronger in tough times

God’s grace is the power of the holy Spirit. It is God’s ability, given to us, dwelling in us, which strengthens the inner man. Strong people draw on this grace when times become tough, because his Word says: ‘my grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness…’ 2 corinthians 12:9.

Strong people are not dismayed by difficulties but recognise them as part of life. They allow God’s grace to ‘…perfect, establish, strengthen and settle…’ them. 1 peter 5:10. Strong people therefore experience the continual process of spiritual growth.

Part of this process is to build themselves up by praying in the Spirit. Jude 20. Strong people recognise this divine connection to God that strengthens and empowers, equipping them beyond their natural ability for any situation.

>>5 strong people live goD’s WorD

Because strong people know that God’s Word is truth, bringing life and strength, it is precious to them and they live it. It helps them face danger and challenges, preparing and strengthening them for anything. With God’s Word and truth living inside, they become strong and God orders their steps.

Be strong people like Joshua and caleb – talk the talk and walk the walk. never give up or be discouraged in your walk but overcome every obstacle through faith, knowing that god is with you and for you. then you will accomplish what god wants and receive all that he has promised, for you and generations to follow.

The spies spoke out what they felt, which increased and The spies spoke out what they felt, which increased and

Caleb was unmoved, responding, ‘...“let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it”. But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we.”’ numbers 13:30-31. The spies were influenced by the obstacles which they saw with their natural eyes. Their negativity and pessimism anchored them in unbelief and blinded them to God’s promises and his provision.

When we are in faith, whatever giants we face, we know that God has the answer. Though we may not clearly see the way ahead, we know and trust the one leading us and we follow him in faith. Joshua and Caleb were not dismayed at what they saw. Their faith enabled them to see only what was good and to know that in God they had the power to succeed. This faith enabled them to quiet the Israelites without being influenced to stumble in their walk.

>>2 strong people hAve A victor not A victim mentAlity

After the spies’ report, the Israelites complained further against God. They had a victim mentality, an attitude which was to cost them the Promised Land. Caleb however had a ‘…different spirit…’ numbers 14:24. No matter what challenge or trial faced him, he knew God’s infinite love and believed himself, ‘…more than a conqueror…’ romans 8:35-37. he knew that God’s nature and character is to lead from victory to victory, glory to glory, into an inheritance and not a defeated life. Caleb’s reward was to inherit the Promised Land for himself and his descendants.

Like Caleb, strong people know that God is with them, for them and living in them. They recognise that God is on their side and always present. 1 chronicles 28:20. They also know that with the holy one living inside, they will be strong people who declare, ‘i can do all things through christ who strengthens me.’ philippians 4:13.

>>3 strong people Are reAl With goD

Strong people don’t grumble to others like the Israelites did. Instead, they are real with God and cry out to him, telling him when they feel weak, desperate or feeling that they can’t go on. Strong people let God strengthen them and supernaturally change the situation. psalm 138:3.

>> ‘MY GrACe IS SUFFICIeNT For YoU, For MY STreNGTh IS MADe PerFeCT IN WeAKNeSS…’ 2 corinthiAns 12:9<<


14

24:7 tAlKs With rev roBert BAKer, the missions Director of cArmel: ministries internAtionAl, AnD his Wife mAry, to gAin An insight into WhAt missionAry WorK reAlly involves…

hoW DiD you Become involveD With missionAry WorK?

r In 1989 the pastor of the church we were in was planning to send trucks with food, clothes and medical supplies to romania while I looked after the church in his absence. Two weeks before the trip he asked me to go instead. I went in obedience Sometimes God doesn’t show you the full picture until you step out and do something like that for him. Through this trip, I saw people’s need for Christ and realised I had a heart for missions.

so you continueD to go to romAniA With supplies. tell me more ABout it.

r I launched a mission – Gospel Life International – with a newsletter for people supporting it. I organised trips, sometimes with people from different churches. The next year we took three trucks and did six trips in five years.

Tv coverage of the conditions in romania didn’t convey the full horror. The orphanages were absolutely terrible. The weather was atrocious and people had no warm clothes and hardly any food. When we went to a village that had been cut off by snow, we were the first people they had seen for five months.

To get there we had to drive across a frozen river. It was so cold that we froze to the inside of the Land rover, in sleeping bags…

hoW hAve you seen goD’s hAnD continue to Direct you?

r In ’93, at Bible School in America, a Ugandan pastor foretold that I would minister in Uganda. God confirmed this two years later. I became an itinerant minister, travelling extensively, and finally went to Uganda in ’96. Doors just opened. I preached and also encouraged pastors. In 2002 I was there with Pastor Gerri and other pastors, holding crusades and special seminars for pastors. People were so hungry for the Word that some walked sixty miles to be there.

I’ve seen fantastic work in Uganda from the outset. I've been back many times. The pastors said that because of the help we’ve given in the last few years, their congregations are increasing and many have had to build bigger churches.

hoW DiD you linK in With cArmel:?

r The previous church went through some changes and eventually closed. We knew God was calling us and that we needed a church and covering. God led us to carmel: in 1999. We felt at home straight away. Pastor Gerri invited me to teach on missions to the Bible College students, then to help with some of the pastoral duties. I’ve been working full time in carmel: ministry ever since.

God showed me that although I would still go on the mission field, I can be more effective training and sending others. I now take second year and carmel:


INTervIeW

15

24:7 tAlKs With rev roBert BAKer, the missions Director of cArmel: ministries internAtionAl, AnD his Wife mAry, to gAin An insight into WhAt missionAry WorK reAlly involves…

you Also sing Don’t you mAry?

m Yes, I used to be a worship leader. I do enjoy praising God. Sometimes I’m asked to back worship groups when we’re on mission, which encourages them.

roBert – WhAt pAst eXperience cAn you see As prepArAtion for WhAt you Do toDAy?

r I once had my own courier company, so I knew about the logistics of transport. Also, one of my jobs was recording and editing church messages, so it was preparation for ‘Word in Season’.

WhAt ADvice WoulD you liKe to give?

r I’m so aware of the sacrifice the early missionaries made and the positive impact they made. It’s sad that many churches don’t give priority to missions and evangelism. That’s why so many churches die of old age. There’s no growth because they’ve not carried out the great commission. If we don’t make disciples, we just make pew sitters.

I’ve learnt that whenever people are saved, not to look upon it as my work or what I do, it’s being there at the right time to reap the harvest. others have been ahead, planting the seed and watering. Not everyone needs to go to the mission field. You can still support missionary work from home. So much practical help is needed, not just financial but administration and prayer – there are all kinds of opportunities to get involved.

leadership academy students as part of the Bible College missions syllabus. The second year programme is a realistic introduction to the mission field, showing what’s out there and demonstrating practically.

For the leadership students it’s more hands on – they get involved. over the past five years we have had eight mission trips - to romania, Uganda and America. The pastors are amazed at the excellence of ministry from carmel: people.

mAry – WhAt Does missions WorK meAn to you? Do you go With roBert?

m Yes, I go too. I can see how hungry people are for the Word and how much is needed. When I see pastors in villages, and all they’ve got is a few pages from the Bible to work from, I realise how privileged we are. They need encouragement, and they’re often on their own. They are so encouraged to see a husband and wife working together on the mission field.

r The teams we take see Mary as a mother figure and the churches we help see her as a spiritual mentor.

m I help and support Bob in everything he does, whatever and wherever it’s needed – I’m his ‘helpmeet’. There’s ever such a lot of administration, especially to organise trips abroad. We also run ‘Word in Season’, which I help with. It’s a monthly CD. We edit Pastor Gerri’s teaching to the church, then get it duplicated and send it to church leaders all over the world.


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twentyfour7 issue 16

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