ARE YOU DATING FOR JESUS?

WITNESSING AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

2 Corinthians 6:14

"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?"

Have you ever wanted to change the world? I have! In fact, in my teens and early twenties, I really thought that I could convince anyone to change. I thought the power was within me to transform a person from thinking negative to thinking positive... from acting like a loser to acting like a winner... from living as a sinner to living as a saint. If only they would listen to me!

While I do believe that God has gifted me with the ability to influence others, I have also come to realize that I DO NOT have the ability to "change" anyone. Only God can transform a life, and even then, a human being must be willing to be changed by the power of the gospel, in order to receive the free gift of salvation. Indeed, when one becomes a born-again Child of the King, they are made a new person; old things are passed away and, behold, all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).

While God "is" into changing people (taking them from glory to glory in their everyday life) He never expects us to take on the all-consuming burden of working wretchedly to change someone else. Clearly, we are instructed to spread the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ, and with this passion certainly does come a deep desire to see people changed; changed from a life of sin and darkness to a life of freedom. Still, we need to keep our witnessing in perspective.

I believe that as we truly begin to understand how the Kingdom of God operates, we free ourselves from our own exhausting plans of trying to convince others to change; we are freed from the wearisome assignment of being responsible for someone else's actions. Only God can cause someone to desire to choose the best path for their life. We are simply called to be messengers and example setters, leaving the care of other's souls in the hands of an All-Knowing, All-Caring God who is more than able to bring that person to Himself.

Once we understand some basic principles of how His Kingdom operates, where: one person plants the seed (of how awesome a new life in Christ really is); another person waters that seed (by sharing more about the Lord); and, still another person reaps the harvest (they have the privilege of leading them to Christ)... responsibility is then shifted from being "our burden" to being that of a team effort - God's team!

Even so, there still continues to be numerous well-meaning Christians who will, inevitably, get caught in the trap of unhealthy opposite sex relationships, in which, someone is compelled to "date" an individual with the subconscious intent of saving them. Another more familiar term often used to describe this type of behavior might be referred to as a "co-dependant" dating relationship, where one person in the relationship is obsessed with the idea of "changing", or, at least, "influencing the other one to change."

This is never a healthy way to start out a dating relationship with the opposite sex. God never intended for us to be paired up with someone who continually drains us - ultimately, distracting us - from our own personal relationship with Him. He never intended for us to be hindered in our God-given potential, due to dating someone who repeatedly causes us to: run to their rescue, defend, or excuse their behavior... over and over and over... time and time, again.

It is so important for singles to realize how dating someone is actually a preliminary relationship to the marriage vow. Think about it. Eventually, most everyone will end up marrying someone that they are currently dating. Since dating is a progressive step toward marriage, it is imperative that God's Word, God's Will, and God's Voice be considered before going out with anyone of the opposite sex.

Unfortunately - and all to often, Christians will choose to "settle" for a broken love relationship: perhaps out of fear; perhaps because of loneliness; or maybe even, because of an all-out conscious choice to "help God out." The Lord has never instructed us to date and, especially, to marry ministry projects. Instead, He has told us to "wait" on His perfect will.

You see my friend, once married to someone, we are then joined together with them for life. At that point, God's Will is to stay married... even in the course of difficult situations. So, if you choose to date someone who is not in the same boat (so to speak) as you are concerning the things of God, you are only setting yourself up for a potential long life of heartache and pain, as you spend days, months, or even years praying and believing for the salvation of your mate... praying for them to CHANGE! Instead of your marriage taking flight from the day of your wedding vows - as God intends - it will poke along. You will be continually hindered in the things that God has called you to do - both individually and as a couple.

Mark 3:25

"And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand."

On the other hand, when two people who are sold out to Jesus begin to date, their relationship has great potential. It could even turn out to be a match made in heaven! As two people grow to love one another with one common goal of living for Christ in all of their ways, they will have a head start on life, as, together, they aim to reach goals, dream dreams, and build upon the solid foundation of God's Word. There is no limit as to the things that the two of them can accomplish in their life-time.

Divorce is not even an option. Two become one. Children. Grandchildren. Great grand-children. This is God's plan. This is God's best.

Remember, dating someone that you have no intentions of marrying is only wasting valuable time. It's risky - in that, you are taking the chance of falling in love with someone who is not in God's Will for your life.

The Lord does not need for us to date people so that we can lead them to Himself. So be choosy. Train your heart to separate godly compassion and empathy from true vibes of interest before dating. Dating is a preliminary to marriage, so always ask yourself, "Is this someone that I might consider marrying?",, before saying "yes" to that first date.

Proverbs 3:5-6

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

Psalm 111:10

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: "

CLICK HERE to read more on Christian dating

Deborah Ross Ministries

Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

HEALING SCRIPTURES

Does Jesus Still Heal Today?

HEBREWS 13:8 - Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.




MATTHEW 4:23 - And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

MATTHEW 9:35 - And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.

LUKE 9:6 - And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing every where.

LUKE 9:11 - And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.

ACTS 4:22 - For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed. (Here Jesus healed a man who was over 40 and had lived with a condition all of his life. See: Acts 3:2 - And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple..... Most people would say, that is God's plan for him... but Jesus healed him!!!!!! I love this passage!)

ACTS 10:38- How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:9 - To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit.

JEREMIAH 30:17 - For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD; because they called thee an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeketh after.

JEREMIAH 33:6 - Behold, I will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth.

ACTS 27:34 - Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health: for there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.

3 JOHN 1:2 - Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

PSALM 30:2 - O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.

PSALM 107:20 - He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

ISAIAH 53:5 - But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

JEREMIAH 17:4 - Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

MATTHEW 4:24 - And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.

MATTHEW 8:8 - The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.

MATTHEW 8:13- And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.

MATTHEW 8:16 - When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick:

MATTHEW 12:15 - But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all;

MATTHEW 12:22 - Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.

MATTHEW 14:14 - And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. (Jesus is moved with compassion to heal us. As believers who lay hands on the sick... we are moved with compassion "just like Jesus" to pray healing over them.)

MATTHEW 15:30 - And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them:

MATTHEW 19:2 - And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there.

MATTHEW 21:14 - And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.

MARK 1:34 - And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.

MARK 3:10 - For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues.

MARK 5:23 - And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.

MARK 5:29 - And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

MARK 6:5 - And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. (Here, Jesus could not do many miracles because of their unbelief. To them, he was just Joseph's son, not the son of God. Mark 6:1 - 1And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him.)

MARK 6:13 - And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.

LUKE 4:40 - Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases (many kinds of diseases) brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.

LUKE 5:15 - But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities.

LUKE 6:19 - And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all. (These people "sought to touch Jesus". Therefore, they all were healed. They believed!)

LUKE 7:7 - Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. (Great faith. This man knew the Word of God alone would heal.)

LUKE 8:47 - And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. (Doctors couldn't heal her but Jesus could and HE DID.)

LUKE 9:11 - And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. (Healing is part of the Kingdom of God. That is God's plan.)

LUKE 9:42 - And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

LUKE 13:14 - And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day. (Religion will never get anyone healed. The teachings of Jesus goes against religion & tradition. Church Denominations can be a form of religious traditions if the denomination and its beliefs are exalted above the Word of God. We must let all of our preconceived - negative- ideas about healing go and surrender to the WORD OF GOD... which is healing. Just Believe!)

LUKE 14:4 - And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;

LUKE 17:15 - And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, (Be sure to glorify God with a loud voice after you receive your healing!!!)

ACTS 5:16 - There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

ACTS 8:7 - For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.

ACTS 14:9 - The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, (This is why I am not at liberty to pray healing over anyone unless they want it and believe in it.)

ACTS 28:8 - And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

ACTS 28:9 - So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:

JAMES 5:16 - Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

1 PETER 2:24 - Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

MARK 1:40 - And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. ( I love this! When the leper said, "Jesus, is it your will?" Jesus answered and said, "YES!")

MATTHEW 13:58 - And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

MATTHEW 17:20 - And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

MARK 6:6 - And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching


"... I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days ..." (Deuteronomy 30:19)

"For by Me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you." (Proverbs 9:11)

"You shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live and that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which you shall possess." (Deuteronomy 5:33)

"My son, do not forget My law, but let your heart keep My commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you." (Proverbs 3:1)

"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you." (Exodus 20:12)

GENESIS 6:3 - Then the Lord said, My Spirit shall not forever dwell and strive with man, for he also is flesh; but his days shall yet be 120 years.

PSALM 90:10 - The days of our years are threescore years and ten (70 years); and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.

MARK 9:24 - And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

YES! Jesus still heals today!

Deborah Ross
Deborah Ross Ministries
Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women
www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

Mother in Zion Series - #1

PRACTICAL & BIBLICAL ADVICE FOR A HEALTHY MARRIAGE

The other day I was awakened by a phone call from a new wife and mom who was desperate for help in her marriage. As I began to minister to her, she made a comment to me that struck me as being a significant, yet, deficient need for wives all over the world. Her comment was,...

"No one has ever told me that before!"

That's when I realized the dire need for "spiritual mothers" - like myself - to share personal knowledge that, perhaps, was never offered by natural mothers; either because of their own personal failures, or, because of their lackadaisical approach to mother/daughter discussions. For this reason, I am offering this Mother in Zion Series which is dedicated to bullet point, practical tips that I pray will help wives - both young and old - to cultivate a healthy marriage that will truly make it until "death do us part."

Practical & Biblical Advice for a Healthy Marriage - by Deborah Ross

#1 - Your mate comes before your children. NEVER allow your children to come between you and your spouse. Remember, a healthy marriage makes the children happy because their confidence will be increased when they live in peace knowing that mom and dad love each other, have respect for one another, and express appropriate affection toward each other. Plus, children learn by example. As you and your spouse show forth a selfless, unconditional love that gives high priority to times of privacy, hand holding, hugging, laughter, and respect for one another, your children are learning what a healthy marriage looks like; and, they will more likely aim to have a healthy marriage - like yours - for themselves one day. Children can be very demanding and while we should aim to be great parents, we should never let our marriage suffer from the pressures of parenting.

Song of Solomon 6:3 - "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine: he feedeth among the lilies."

#2 - Do not get into the habit of sleeping in separate beds. It is not healthy for married couples to sleep separately. So often, I hear of parents sleeping with the children rather than sleeping with each other. In my opinion it is better to make pallets beside of mom and dad's bed occasionally (when children are fussy, afraid, or have a fever) rather than slip into the habit of sleeping in the children's bed -apart from one another.

1 Corinthians 7:5 - "Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency."

#3 - Never go to sleep angry. Husband and wife need to come to a place of peace before going to sleep. This may mean that YOU will need to apologize. You may even have to apologize for something when you feel like you are in the right. The goal is not to win, but rather to have a reasonable discussion over conflicts and then to come to some type of peaceable solution at the end of the discussion. If your mate is not being rational about coming to a peaceable climax, then simply finish with... "I love you."

Ephesians 4:26 - "Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:"

#4 - Facebook, email, text, phone conversations, and on the job relationships should never be of intimate nature with the opposite sex. In other words, if you would be embarrassed for your spouse to see it or hear it... don't do it! Also, if you are carrying on a conversation that has any implication of being intimate in nature... run the other way! Many marriages end in divorce because of jealousy or even adultery simply because couples fail to adhere to sound practices concerning relationships with the opposite sex.

Proverbs 6:24 - "To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman."

#5 - You must be INTENTIONAL about your marriage. This means, you must intentionally carve out date nights, time for intimate conversations, times of selfless servant hood and sacrifice. Couples need to hold a high respect for their common goal of making it "until death do us part" with a relationship that is exciting and new... not old and worn out. Be intentional about spending quality TIME with each other. Don't let the busyness of life rob you of the precious moments with your spouse that bring lasting memories of love and laughter.

Proverbs 31:11-12 - "The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life."

#6 - Time with your friends (of the same sex) is a good thing in moderation, however, too often I hear of women or men taking "vacations" with their friends - leaving their spouse behind. An occasional church retreat is OK, but an all out "vacation" at the beach, Vegas, the Bahamas, or somewhere else is not a wise idea. My grandmother always taught me, "What is good for the goose is good for the gander." If you reserve the right to go with your friends on a vacation without your spouse, then they should be able to go on one without you. Is that what you really want? I feel that vacation money and vacation time is too precious a commodity to spend away from my family. Plus, many of these "vacations away from your spouse" end up being opportunities to sin. Why throw your marriage out to the wolves. Marriage is a sacred thing and should be treated as something valuable. Let me remind you that no one ever intends to get a divorce. Divorce happens when someone in the marriage is careless in the relationship.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 - "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:"

#7 - Watch your mouth! Don't use sarcasm, degrading verbiage, slander, bad body language or negative vocal tones toward your spouse. Be intentional about complementing your spouse - especially in front of others. Get into the habit of encouraging your spouse. Never tear them down. No one has ever been motivated by negativity. If you want to see your spouse be all that they were created to be... encourage them!

Proverbs 18:21 - "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."

# 8 - Pray together... OUT LOUD. There is something about praying together as a married couple that creates a bond like none other. It may feel awkward, at first, but start to initiate bedtime prayer with one another and watch as God causes your marriage to bloom like never before. The saying is true... "A family that prays together, stays together!"

2 Timothy 1:3 - "I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;"

#9 - Sex is a vital part of your relationship as man and wife. Women should meet the need of their husband by responding to them with interest. Men need to meet the needs of their wife by sharing intimate conversation, romantic hand holding and kisses, and foreplay. So often, couples grow bored, tired, or uncaring toward their sexual relationship with each other. This is VERY DANGEROUS. You must be "intentional" about keeping your relationship ALIVE by keeping a healthy God honoring sexual intimacy with one another.

1 Corinthians 7:3-4 - "Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."

#10 - Space. People need their space. Honor your spouse by making sure that they have times of refreshing by doing something that they like. Perhaps he likes to play golf occasionally or go to an occasional ball game. She may want to spend the day shopping or talking with friends. The key to a happy and healthy marriage is that personal space is reserved as something in moderation. It is not good for anyone in the marriage to spend obsessive amounts of time doing "their own thing." Use wisdom about the amount of time you spend outside of the home, with friends, or on hobbies.

Isaiah 28:12 - "To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing:"

#11 NEVER hit one another! God says that our bodies are the temple of the Lord, so when we hit our mate we are coming against the Lord's temple with violence. God commands us to love one another. In fact, He says to "love your neighbor as yourself." In this case, your spouse is your neighbor... and you would not hit yourself... so you shouldn't hit your spouse, either.

Psalm 11:5 - "The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth."

To read Mother in Zion - #2 CLICK HERE

CAREER VERSES MOTHERHOOD

LOOKING FOR PEACE

Dear Beautiful Women of God:

I often get letters from readers who have a prayer request, a praise report, and even those who just need some biblical advice. The letter below is from a young mother who is struggling in a decision of career verses motherhood. While it is possible to do both, there is certainly nothing wrong with being a stay-at-home mom either. I pray that her question and my response will minister to many of you who are caught in the balance of what to do...

_________________________________________

Deborah, would you please pray for me. Without getting into a long, drawn out story, I'll just summarize by saying I'm not happy at my job. My heart is at home with my baby. Since he's been born, I've just wanted to be a stay-at-home-mom. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that I'd want to do that after all the education my parents paid for me to have! But, I truly believe now that God did intend for mommies to be at home with their kids. Unfortunately, most people lives are built around two salaries these days. But, I want to be with him so badly right now during the early years of his life. My mother keeps him for me, and that's the next best thing, but I'm unhappy at work (maybe that's what's put the crazy idea in my head about being home with him, I'm not sure). I just need some guidance about what to do, and I know I need prayer. Thank you so much.

_________________________________________

I know EXACTLY how you feel. I had a successful dance studio (3 successful dance studios, in fact) for 20 years - but the last 7 years were so difficult. Although I loved my career, I wish I would have obeyed the Lord sooner and let it go, but I was afraid. I will tell you that once I finally gave it ALL to the Lord (sold my businesses) and trusted Him for our finances, I have not looked back a single day since. It was the best thing I've ever done!

Everyone thought that I was crazy. My mother, especially, because she feared what would happen to our future. I was the bread winner and my husband did not make as much money as I did, nor, was he very good with finances. It was a big leap of faith, but Praise the Lord... one of the most peaceful and God honoring things I have ever done. Now that my children are in 12th grade and 10th grades, I am so glad that I had those years of being a good mother to them. I just wish I would have done it sooner. I even home schooled for 2 years and felt that God was redeeming the time that I had left my babies in child care while working.

Try to think of your life as being in seasons (segments of time). There is the child rearing season and then, God willing, there will be MANY more years after the children are grown that you will be able to focus on your job, your ministry, your hobby, community service or whatever - 100%. Eighteen years of your life (child rearing years) is only a portion of your life span. You can still use your education later down the road AND you can even use it now with PART TIME jobs or projects that the Lord gives you peace about doing. I have learned over the years to follow after PEACE. If you want to be in God's will, FOLLOW PEACE. He will provide for your needs as you keep Him first place in your heart and continue to tithe and give offerings. It is not always easy to have one income, in fact, sometimes it might be really difficult; but, I can tell you, first hand, that it will be the most peaceful, difficult days you could ever experience and... you can count on God to ALWAYS see you through.

I believe that as you step into your role as wife and mom, you actually EMPOWER your husband to be the man that God has called him to be - as head of the household. My husband is wiser, more respected, more confident, and earns more money today because of my willingness to listen to God by stepping down for a season. Did my husband like the idea, at first? Not really. He was immature and afraid - just like me. Still, we came to a place of faith - together - trusting that it was the right thing to do. And since then, we have been so richly blessed!!!

When I think of my fondest childhood memories, I think of my grandmother who didn't work and who was PEACEFULLY there for me as a mentor and role model of Christ.

I will pray for you! I will pray that you will have courage to follow your heart AND I will pray God's blessings on your family as a result of your faith and obedience. I will pray that either your husband gets a promotion and/or that you find a VERY PART TIME job to give you a little money each week for simple extras. You need to ask God for His best and don't waiver in your prayer life just because you think it is too much to ask. There is NOTHING TOO HARD FOR GOD!!! If you don't want a part time job, then ask God to promote your husband!

God is good and He gives good gifts to those who trust and obey Him with a heart of faith, compassion and love. Being a full-time mom is an act of LOVE!

In Christ,
Deborah

Deborah Ross Ministries

Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

A New Year's Challenge...

PUTTING HIM FIRST PLACE

John 21:15-17 -

"So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep."

I - like most of you - have spent the past few weeks reflecting on 2009, while anticipating the future of 2010 with all of life's decisions, plans, twists and turns. Now that I am 47, I feel the need - more than ever - to press into life's most sacred journey; the path that God has specifically ordained for "my" life. I don't want to waste one minute of my days on fleshly goals that lead to perpetual dead ends of momentary bliss; all the while, lacking any real inner peace of knowing that I am doing "exactly" what God has planned for His Kingdom and for my best interest. I want to leave a legacy; I want to hit the mark.

So in my deepest thoughts and prayers, I am sitting quietly, seeking to hear the voice of my Lord to know what direction He desires for me to move in as I begin my expedition into the year... 2010. As I proceed into the new calendar, which rolls ahead - ready or not - my first Sunday of the New Year brings me to a wonderful time of worship at my local church where I diligently sought the Lord's presence: to hear His voice; to sense His direction; to clearly see Him like never before. I love to worship the Lord.

Then it happened! I heard a Rhema Word from the Lord that thrilled my innermost being. As I was listening to our Life Group Teacher on being and ensample and not an example (ensample = being a vessel of Christ who shows forth godly fruit; example = being a billboard of worldliness) and as we were reading some text from John 21:15-17 about Peter being questioned three times by Jesus concerning the depth of his love for Him and subsequently being instructed to "feed the Lord's sheep", I stumbled across a passage that God illuminated to me for such a time as this. I found the answer to my New Year prayer that was so deep within my heart.

As I began (silently) reading ahead to verse 18 which says:

John 21:18-19 -

"Verily, verily, I say unto thee, when thou wast young, thou girdest thyself, and walkedst wither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, FOLLOW ME."

I wondered, "What does this verse have to do with Peter understanding the importance of loving Jesus with an agape love? What does it have to do with Peter learning to feed the Lord's sheep?" That's when the Lord answered my question and supernaturally revealed to me His direction for my life. He explained to me that it is the immature - or, as the text says "young" - who continually insist on doing things their own way. They forge ahead with their own plans and then hope - and even pray - the Lord will bless it. On the other hand: those who really love the Lord with a deep agape love (a love that stays faithful through thick and thin); those who desire to do His will (feed His sheep); and those who are willing to follow Him; they are referred to as "old" because they are more mature in their understanding of the Kingdom of God. The text reveals that these "older ones" (more mature ones) must "stretch out their hands" to be "carried" by another.

So what the Lord is saying is, "Don't go into 2010 doing fleshly 'good works'. Instead, enter into this New Year with your arms outstretched and your eyes (spiritually speaking) closed. Trust me (Jesus) wholeheartedly to lead you into the perfect destiny designed specifically for you. As you do this, I will use you to 'feed my sheep'." Notice the verse says He will carry you where you "wouldest not." God will carry us through new, unfamiliar, territory where we would not ordinarily adventure to travel as we trust Him. The Lord wants to show us "new things." He wants to break us away from the mundane and give us a life of fresh, new, fate that brings with it joy and abundant peace.

So then, as I am reading verse 19, I am still having trouble understanding the significance of Jesus speaking of Peters death as being glory to God. That's when it hit me. Jesus was not speaking of Peters natural death, but rather, teaching him the importance of "dying to self." It is only after we learn to put to death our personal agenda's, fleshly desires, and carnal works that we can ever expect to glorify God. Once we truly "die to self", we are then positioned to "follow Jesus" the way that He desires to be followed. Just as Peter was exhorted to LOVE DEEPLY, FEED THE SHEEP, DIE TO SELF and FOLLOW JESUS, we too, are to do the same.

That's it! The Lord's instructions for 2010 are LOUD and CLEAR. Putting Christ first is so much more than "saying" this is a New Year's resolution. Yes, putting Christ first requires laying everything else down... EVERYTHING. Once we get to that place in our spiritual journey where we "really" lay it all down, we step into a mature position of "following the Lord" in such a way that the Kingdom of God is revealed in our every step.

So my prayer for 2010 is, "Lord, help me to die to self. Teach me to follow you... and only you. Help me to not be moved by the arm of the flesh or great ideas that are not part of your plans for my life. This year, I want to LOVE DEEPLY, FEED THE SHEEP, DIE TO SELF, and FOLLOW YOU. I want to put You first, not in word, but in deed. May my life be an 'ensample' to a lost world as you lead me through unknown territory and new adventures that bring ultimate peace and purpose to my life on earth. Amen."

Would you join me, by laying down your life and taking up your cross... daily? The Lord is good (Psalm 118:1). He has good things in store for His children (Matthew 7:11 & Luke 11:13). His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30). Hallelujah!

Matthew 16:24 -

"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."

Deborah Ross

Speaker / Singer / Author / Choreographer

Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

THE BLESSING OF THE LORD...

IT MAKETH RICH!

Psalm 41:1-3

"Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness."

This scripture verse was part of my reading today and I think it is very appropriate for the Christmas season - as well as all year long. REMEMBER, YOU CANNOT OUT GIVE GOD. When you give to the poor, give to the church, and give to missions, the Lord promises that He will take care of your EVERY NEED... super abundantly! His word teaches that it is the "tight hand" or the "stingy soul" that suffers lack.

Proverbs 11:24

"There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth, and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty."

I have witnessed God's principles working in our household as we choose to live generously, trusting God for our every need. The Lord has shown us, time-and-time again that as we allow a continuous flow of our finances, time, and resources to pass through our hands - for His Kingdom purposes - He heals us, delivers us, and provides, not only for our needs, but for most of our wants, as well.

As Christians, our giving should not be a "tithe only" attitude. It should not be a "time only" (in place of the tithe) attitude. We should not have an attitude of being a "resource only" giver. No, our giving should be in TITHES and OFFERINGS. I truly believe that so many people miss out on the abundant provision of God, because of their refusal to give; to give over and above the tithe.

Malachi 3:8-12

"Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meet in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven, and pour out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground, neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all the nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be called a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts."

You see, keeping the 10% that is God's portion is a curse. You will live much better on 90% of your income than you could ever expect to live off of a 100%. I know it doesn't seem logical, but God's Kingdom defies man's logic. He is a supernatural God and shows His glory when He does things against the grain of what you can see, taste, feel, hear, or rationalize in your human mind. Tithing 10% of your income is not giving to God, rather, it is "trusting" God. He doesn't need your money. He only desires that you live in faith, trusting Him for your every need. He loves you and "wants" to bless you.

Then, there is the offering. Giving an offering to the Lord should not be a haphazard event. Your offering should be out of an act of obedience that responds to the prompting of the Holy Spirit as He leads you to give to a cause, a need, or an organization. God desires to "speak to your heart" about certain Kingdom needs and then He desires that you are obedient to His wooing. Really, I believe that the offering is what moves the hand of God to bless you "super abundantly." What are you in need of? Would you trust God by stepping out in faith to give, believing that as you do, He will pour out a blessing over and above your need?

Beyond our tithes and offerings, I have noticed something else about God's provision principles. God has shown me that our giving should be in "doing the right thing." Our giving should be in "never taking what is not ours." We should seek out those who are less fortunate than us... and bless them... just because! Yes, God desires for us (you and I) to be faucets that are always "turned on." He doesn't want anything to have a hold on his children... and that includes money, time, and resources. He wants His children FREE INDEED, and the only pathway to becoming totally free is in following the instructions given by the designer of the universe. When God says, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over...," you can fully trust in this spiritual law. (Luke 6:38)

Remember, God is not limited by a recession or by the "what ifs" of our economy. He is Lord over ALL and He is our only hope in times of trouble. If not for the blessing of the Lord, we would all surely live in fear. But, PRAISE THE LORD... He has not given us a spirit of fear, but of POWER, and of LOVE, and of a SOUND MIND (2 Timothy 1:7). The Christian Spirit - the generous spirit who lives by FAITH - should not worry about the world's economy. Our Daddy - Abba Father - owns it ALL!!! And, He loves to give good gifts to His children... as they are obedient to His Word.

I pray that this Christmas will find YOU in a spirit of giving... giving to the poor, giving to the church, and giving to missions. May you have a blessed (super abundantly blessed) holiday season, knowing that the Lord is faithful!!! He loves you and He cares about the "details" of your life. Trust Him.

Proverbs 22:9

"He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor."

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To read more... click over to the Remnant Women Blog and read the December 9th article entitled Watching God Provide, written by a friend of mine, Andi Raymnd. I think it will really inspire you.

Oh, and if the Lord is speaking to your heart about how you can bless this ministry, click over to Deborah Ross Ministries official web-site to make your donation or to become a partner, now. Thank you for your financial support!

In Christ,

Deborah

Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

JESUS DIED FOR MUSLIMS, TOO!

Is the Injeel Corrupt?

I have a deep love for people... people from all cultures... people all around the world...

I am especially fascinated with Middle Eastern women. These women have a strong demeanor that emanates their passion for truth. They are very direct in their conversation and show a sincerity that is unmatched. Their piercing dark eyes make them stunningly beautiful and their accent is intriguing.

God has turned my heart toward these women in leading me to support a ministry called The Crescent Project. The Crescent Project reaches out to those of the Muslim faith with booklets, DVD's, street evangelism, conferences, and more. Their booklets: "Adha in the Injeel" and "Is the Injeel Corrupt?" are great resources for those of the Muslim faith to get solid answers - in their own language - about Jesus and how His life and ministry applies to the Muslim faith. The Crescent Project also provides the Jesus Film - to millions in 16 different languages - so that the life and love of Jesus can be seen in a powerful way. Yes, Jesus died so that everyone could be set free from the bondage of sin. That includes those of the Muslim faith, too!

Well, last spring I received some very pointed emails from a man claiming to be a Muslim. He emailed me numerous copies of pages from the Qur'an to argue his point. In his arguments he compared the teachings of the Qur'an to his misinformed information about the teachings of the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Sensing that his arguments were as much of a question as they were a statement, I responded to one of his emails. Below, I will share with you what I said to him, and point out some of his arguments (which seem to be standard beliefs by most Muslims).

My Letter...

"I read your article because I wanted to have a better understanding of your belief(s).

The obvious differences that I noticed in your Qur'an and the Taurat (Torah or Old Testament) seem to be the flow of the message. Both books contain many similar accounts of the lives of those who trusted God such as Moses, Abraham, Joseph, and so on. It even appears that both books point to Jesus (Isa) as being someone that we should seek to understand. The name Allah and the name Yahweh (One True God) seem to be synonymous in many ways, with language being the argumentative factor that makes them different, at first glance.

On the other hand, those who have read the New Testament (The Injeel), have been able to tie up the loose ends of their faith by seeing for themselves just who Jesus really is; and, by seeking to understand what significance He has in the world today. It is interesting to me how all three Holy Books (Qur'an, Old Testament, Taurat/Torah) prophetically point to the Injeel (The New Testament), but for whatever reasons (reasons that man has conjured up over the course of generations) many Muslim's and Jew's are reluctant to see for themselves just what this extension of the scriptures has to say.

Jesus came to this earth to "reveal the love" that God has for all mankind. Jesus gives "life" to those who believe that He was, indeed, sent from God to redeem humanity from the curse of sin and death.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16.

Jesus is God... wrapped up in flesh. He walked on the earth for a short amount of time so that mankind could see, feel, and experience the Kingdom of Heaven in a tangible way. God loves His creation and He knew that humanity needed to be awakened into understanding the depth of His love. Jesus is the sacrificial lamb (Adha) who paid the price for sin - once and for all. It is through His shed blood that mankind can be restored into a right relationship with God.

HIS ARGUMENT - CHRISTIANS CLAIM GRACE OVER THEIR SIN... YET, KEEP RIGHT ON SINNING...

I had a discussion with a beautiful Muslim woman a few weeks ago about forgiveness of sin and I think I understand your argument about Christians using their salvation as a license to sin. Unfortunately, there are some people who claim to be true Christians - but they are not. I challenge you to read the entire book of 1 John (not from the four Gospels but further into the New Testament). Here you will see that Christians are taught that true repentance means remorse and turning from that behavior.

Christians, like Muslims, come in many forms. No, it's not what God desires, but it is the truth about humanity. People of all faiths tend to conveniently omit anything about repentance from sin, in order to live a lie under the banner of their religion.

It saddens me how "people" have come up with their own version of Christianity through the years; and thus, made it hard for unbelievers to understand the truth of God's love. The root of this confusion is the devil. John 10:10 says, "The thief (the devil) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I (Jesus - Isa) am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

Does your Holy Book offer "life"... and "life more abundantly?" As Christians, we are taught that we can have life more abundantly NOW, and in the life to come (Mark 10:30 and Luke 18:30).

HE ALSO COMMENTED ON THE IDOLATRY OF CHRISTIANS, USING CHRISTMAS AND STATUES OF JESUS AS AN EXAMPLE...

You also mentioned the idolatry of Christmas and the statues of Jesus. I can see your point and , again, I am grieved that "worldly" Christians get so caught up in "things" and "events" that take away from the pure worship of God. I think most western Christians are born into certain traditions that they never question. This, to me, can be compared to someone being raised Muslim and never questioning their Muslim traditions.

I think God is pleased when we talk to Him like a friend (since He knows what we are thinking anyway). He is pleased when we "question" our childhood teachings and come to our own conclusion about who He is and how much He loves us. After all, He created us with a mind and he even said we were made in His image (Genesis 1:26). He wants us to love Him because we have "fallen in love with Him", not because we are made to love Him through traditions.

HE POINTED OUT SIMILARITIES IN THE QUR'AN AND WHAT HE KNEW OF THE BIBLE , CLAIMING THAT SOMEONE IS OBVIOUSLY WRONG...

It seems there are many similarities in our scriptures, and I believe there is a reason for this. Truly, one is right and the other is wrong. Still, the wrong one contains an element of truth so that those who follow it will be blinded to the "real truth". This, we both agree on.

The only difference between me and you is that... once I was lost, but now I am found! I have known the emptiness of living a religious life apart from becoming a born-again believer of Jesus Christ. If being born-again (a supernatural experience in which the Holy Spirit comes to live inside of a person) is wrong... it's the most liberating, powerful, loving, peaceful, joyful, life-giving wrong I've ever experienced. That is why, "I know" that Jesus is the Son of God. He has given me joy, peace, hope, and life.

Have you had this experience?

HE ARGUED THAT THERE IS ONLY ONE GOD AND THAT CHRISTIANS ARE WORSHIPPING THREE GODS (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)...

I used to question the trinity, just as you are taught to question the falsely assumed three God's of the Christian faith. It was really hard for me to understand how God (who is one) can be made manifest in three. Consider this: Your spirit (1) lives inside of your body(2) and your soul (3) - which is your mind, your will, and your emotions - rules and reigns over them all. You are still "one person", but you are made up of three parts. Really, this is something you will need to accept by faith after reading the entire New Testament (Injeel) and coming to the conclusion that Jesus loves you!

Jesus was sent from God, not as a prophet, but as a Savior. He came to "show" us the love of the Father (God). Jesus is God, coming to earth in the flesh, revealing to mankind how much He loves them. That is why He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and made the lame to walk. All of these malady's are a curse from the wages of sin (Satan - or the devil's hellish schemes). Still, even many Christians find it hard to believe that God loves them enough to heal them and so they continue in this life with disease and sickness, or even worse, die prematurely because of their unbelief.

I know this is probably a lot of information for you, but I challenge you to read the entire New Testament just to see if you notice anything different (love, peace, joy, forgiveness, hope) that it offers. I think that Allah is a big enough God to hold his own. Put the words of Muhammad up against the words of Jesus and "test" them. Don't go by what others have told you, but rather read it for yourself. I read your message today because I wanted to know what you believe. Now, would you read for yourself and study what I believe?

HE, AND MOST MUSLIMS, ARE SKEPTICAL ABOUT READING THE INJEEL (New Testament) BECAUSE THEY HAVE BEEN TAUGHT THAT IT IS CORRUPT...

It does not seem logical to think that the Injeel has been tampered with, but the Qur'an has not? I did see from your text that Isa (Jesus) is taught in the Qur'an. If the Injeel was truly sent from God, then it would be impossible for mankind to corrupt God's Word. God does not need man; man needs God. If the devil can keep someone believing that any part of God's Word is corrupt, then he can keep them from the truth.

HE ALSO QUESTIONED SO MANY VERSIONS OF THE BIBLE AND OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH (DENOMINATIONS)...

I know, there are so many Bible's out there, you're probably wondering which version to get. I don't know where you are from, but I pray that you are able to get your hands on a pure copy of the Holy Bible. "My" favorite is the King James version, but again, depending on where you live, there may be another one that speaks in your language more clearly.

May God (I say Jehovah; you say Allah) richly bless you and may He reveal His love to you in a new and powerful way."

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Those of you reading this blog who are Muslim, please know that this entry is written with a sincere desire to help us come together to worship the one true God with unity and an appreciation for each others culture. If you are reading this blog and you are a Christian, I pray that the comments here will help you to better understand your Muslim friends so that you can share the truth about Isa (Jesus) with them.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16 ... this message is for everyone... Muslims, too!

In Christ,

Deborah Ross

Strengthening Families and Encouraging Women

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

To order your Outreach Pack containing the two booklets ('Adha in the Injeel' and 'Is the Injeel Corrupt?') along with a DVD of the Jesus Film in 16 languages, contact The Crescent Project Bookstore or DRM.