Our Survey Trip Dates:
May 9-31, 2013
Broad Itinerary:
May 9 - leave for Africa
May 10 - arrive in Libreville, Gabon
(Survey and gather information)
May 23 - go to Cameroon
(Visiting Baptist missionaries there who are also burdened to start churches in Gabon)!
May 31 - return home
Please pray for our trip! Pray that God would give us great wisdom, that we would be a blessing to all we come in contact with, and that we would gain a greater burden for the work God has called us to do.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
SYMBOLS OF FREEDOM
THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Symbol of Freedom
Many have died and will die for the cause which this flag represents.
Patriotic Americans love their flag, their symbol of freedom. We should always treat the flag with the utmost respect and care. God Bless America! God Save America!
THE CROSS OF CALVARY - WHERE JESUS CHRIST DIED IN OUR STEAD
Symbol of Freedom
If you have accepted Christ as your Savior, the cross is your symbol of freedom.
Our precious LORD died on the cross so that we may have eternal life.
Many Christians have stood strong for the cause which the cross represents, (spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ), and many have even died for the Cause.
May I make one thing clear, we should not worship the cross. However, we should most certainly cherish it as a symbol of our freedom found by placing our full trust in Christ. Do not be ashamed of the Cross or the Cause, but rather propagate the Gospel to all people, and stand strong for Jesus, even til death!
The U.S.A. is still the greatest country in the world, and is an honorable cause to die for. But, the cause of Christ is, by far, the most honorable cause of all to die for. "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, the emblem of suffering and shame; and I love that old cross where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain. Refrain: So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it some day for a crown. 2. O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world, has a wondrous attraction for me; for the dear Lamb of God left his glory above to bear it to dark Calvary. 3. In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine, a wondrous beauty I see, for 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died, to pardon and sanctify me. 4. To that old rugged cross I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear; then he'll call me some day to my home far away, where his glory forever I'll share.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Why Me? (A beginning to a study of I Corinthians)
The book of I Corinthians is one of my favorite books in the Bible! Over the next several weeks, I hope to share several posts based on my studies of this book. It is my prayer that these truths will be as much a blessing to you, as they are to me.
I Corinthians is a very relevant book for this day and age in which we live. In John Phillips commentary, Exploring I Corinthians, he compares the wicked city of Corinth with Vanity Fair in Pilgrims Progress. Allow me to quote from Mr. Phillips preface: "It was no small thing to be a Christian at Corinth, to spurn its ways and its wares, to live there unspotted from the world. Christianity is in no peril from the Corinths and Vanity Fairs of this world, however, just so long as it stays true to its call....It is not the water outside a ship that sinks it. A ship is designed for deep waters. It is the water that gets in that imperils a ship. That was what imperiled the Christians at Corinth. The world had come into the church." I believe that Christians have ALLOWED the world into the church. Slowly, we compromise our beliefs. We give up our morals. It is not easy to stand strong, to fight for what we know is right. Our spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. I struggle everyday with my flesh, and if you're honest, you will admit you struggle as well. In I Corinthians, the apostle Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, writes and exhorts us how to live righteously.
Today I want to focus on the last part of chapter 1. Let us examine: Who is called, Why are we called, and for What purpose are we called?
"For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." - I Cor. 1: 26-31
1. Who Is Called?
The Bible states that not many wise, mighty, or noble are called to serve Him. Rather it is often "the weak things", "the base things", and "things which are despised", that are called to serve the King of Kings. In the book of Judges, there are many examples of this. God used David, a shepherd boy, to defeat the giant Goliath. D.L. Moody was an uneducated salesman, and William Carey was a cobbler.
2. Why are we called?
God calls the simple people so that "no flesh should glory in his presence." God does not want us to glory in ourselves. He desires that glory for Himself, and rightly so, after all, He it is that created us. He gives us the breath to live each and every day, the strength to carry out our daily tasks. Everything we have and are is because of Him.
3. What is our purpose for being called?
Our purpose stated very simply is to bring God glory. How can we accomplish this? We bring God glory when we: live holy, separated lives. We bring Him glory when we tell the lost about the Savior. God "Is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come unto repentance." II Peter 3:9
And so we see the Who, Why, and What of our calling. It is an awesome privilege to be called to serve God Almighty! I am not worthy to go and serve God in Gabon, Africa. Yet God has called me and I have answered that call. I accept the responsibility humbly. Ultimately, anything done for God in Gabon will be by His enablement and for His glory. It would be a tragic thing to take the credit for ourselves. We know how weak our flesh is, and how much we need God's grace every day.
Let us resolve to accept God's calling for God's glory!! Let us live in this world for a time, but let us not allow the world to be in us. "Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." I Thess. 5:24
I Corinthians is a very relevant book for this day and age in which we live. In John Phillips commentary, Exploring I Corinthians, he compares the wicked city of Corinth with Vanity Fair in Pilgrims Progress. Allow me to quote from Mr. Phillips preface: "It was no small thing to be a Christian at Corinth, to spurn its ways and its wares, to live there unspotted from the world. Christianity is in no peril from the Corinths and Vanity Fairs of this world, however, just so long as it stays true to its call....It is not the water outside a ship that sinks it. A ship is designed for deep waters. It is the water that gets in that imperils a ship. That was what imperiled the Christians at Corinth. The world had come into the church." I believe that Christians have ALLOWED the world into the church. Slowly, we compromise our beliefs. We give up our morals. It is not easy to stand strong, to fight for what we know is right. Our spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. I struggle everyday with my flesh, and if you're honest, you will admit you struggle as well. In I Corinthians, the apostle Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, writes and exhorts us how to live righteously.
Today I want to focus on the last part of chapter 1. Let us examine: Who is called, Why are we called, and for What purpose are we called?
"For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." - I Cor. 1: 26-31
1. Who Is Called?
The Bible states that not many wise, mighty, or noble are called to serve Him. Rather it is often "the weak things", "the base things", and "things which are despised", that are called to serve the King of Kings. In the book of Judges, there are many examples of this. God used David, a shepherd boy, to defeat the giant Goliath. D.L. Moody was an uneducated salesman, and William Carey was a cobbler.
2. Why are we called?
God calls the simple people so that "no flesh should glory in his presence." God does not want us to glory in ourselves. He desires that glory for Himself, and rightly so, after all, He it is that created us. He gives us the breath to live each and every day, the strength to carry out our daily tasks. Everything we have and are is because of Him.
3. What is our purpose for being called?
Our purpose stated very simply is to bring God glory. How can we accomplish this? We bring God glory when we: live holy, separated lives. We bring Him glory when we tell the lost about the Savior. God "Is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come unto repentance." II Peter 3:9
And so we see the Who, Why, and What of our calling. It is an awesome privilege to be called to serve God Almighty! I am not worthy to go and serve God in Gabon, Africa. Yet God has called me and I have answered that call. I accept the responsibility humbly. Ultimately, anything done for God in Gabon will be by His enablement and for His glory. It would be a tragic thing to take the credit for ourselves. We know how weak our flesh is, and how much we need God's grace every day.
Let us resolve to accept God's calling for God's glory!! Let us live in this world for a time, but let us not allow the world to be in us. "Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." I Thess. 5:24
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Update on Survey Trip to Gabon
Below is our March Missionary Update...
Dear Praying
Friends and Family,
Our last month and a half has been
some of our most challenging to date, but God was faithfully growing our faith
every step of the way. We talked with
Brother David Bennett on Saturday, February 16th to discuss our
March calendar with him and to ask his advice concerning our funds as we were
only 12% of the way to our goal. We prayed
and believed, though at the time it seemed bleak, that the LORD would provide
the funds necessary.
On Sunday, February 17th,
we were privileged to share our presentation with our home church, Tabernacle
Baptist of Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
An offering was taken before the DVD was shown or the message preached. Miraculously, we raised more than half our
goal that night. On the following
Monday, we received an email from the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church
in Gabon, and they were willing to allow us the use of their missions home for
less than half of what we were budgeting to stay in a hotel. Praise the LORD! Through all these things, our
faith was rekindled and we are eager to keep pressing on.
We had the opportunity to attend our first Mission’s
Conference at Harvest Baptist Church in New Hartford, Connecticut. Brother Hornbeck (missionary to the military)
and Brother Asterillo (National missionary to the Philippines) were also there
presenting their works. The theme was on “Giving that Fruit may Abound to Your
Account” out of Philippians 4:10-20. We
were able to go on Pastor Shott’s famous New England Baptist History tour and
even stood at the sight of the famous Haystack prayer meeting, the birthplace
of American Foreign missions.
The following week, we traveled to Gospel Light Baptist
Church in Kearny, New Jersey. It was
great to be near/in the melting pot of America.
I was able to see NYC for the first time, but also met many brothers and
sisters-in-Christ for the first time and enjoyed our fellowship far more than
the sight-seeing.
So in retrospect, God has raised our support level from 12%
to 100% in under three weeks! We also
were able to obtain a good camera with accessories for only a quarter of the camera’s
original price! This will be very
beneficial to us in taking quality pictures for our deputation DVD. God is providing for us in His timing and it
has been a test and a blessing all along the way. Praise His Name!
PRAYER REQUEST: Brother David Bennett recently had
surgery for the second time within a few months period. He is facing complications and there is the
possibility that our trip dates of April 2-23 may be postponed. Please pray for Bro. Bennett’s healing, and
for God’s will to be done regarding the timing of our survey trip. Pray also that we would have patience and
that through all this we would grow to be more like Christ.
Thank you for all your prayers and support. Please feel free to email us with any prayer
requests/praises that you may have. We
would love to hear how God is working in your lives and ministry.
For His
Glory,
Bruce and
Amanda Stuart
Friday, February 15, 2013
The Faces of Gabon
It is a beautiful place, often referred to as
"The Last Eden."
Please pray for the people of Gabon!!
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
What a wonderful privilege and honor to serve the King of Kings!
(1) There’s a call comes ringing over the restless wave,
“Send the light! Send the light!”
There are souls to rescue there are souls to save,
Send the light! Send the light!
(2) We have heard the Macedonian call today,
“Send the light! Send the light!”
And a golden offering at the cross we lay,
Send the light! Send the light!
(3) Let us pray that grace may everywhere abound,
“Send the light! Send the light!”
And a Christlike spirit everywhere be found,
Send the light! Send the light!
(4) Let us not grow weary in the work of love,
“Send the light! Send the light!”
Let us gather jewels for a crown above,
Send the light! Send the light!
(1) There’s a call comes ringing over the restless wave,
“Send the light! Send the light!”
There are souls to rescue there are souls to save,
Send the light! Send the light!
Send the light, the blessèd Gospel light;
Let it shine from shore to shore!
Send the light, the blessèd Gospel light;
Let it shine forevermore!
Let it shine from shore to shore!
Send the light, the blessèd Gospel light;
Let it shine forevermore!
“Send the light! Send the light!”
And a golden offering at the cross we lay,
Send the light! Send the light!
“Send the light! Send the light!”
And a Christlike spirit everywhere be found,
Send the light! Send the light!
“Send the light! Send the light!”
Let us gather jewels for a crown above,
Send the light! Send the light!
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Give Him the Glory!
"The Lord's Prayer"
Our Father, which art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth,
As it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
Hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth,
As it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
The power, and the glory,
For ever and ever.
Amen.
This song should be sung more often in churches. It really sums up what Christianity is all about, and I especially love how it begins and ends with giving God ALL the Glory!! Amen!!!
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Update on Gabon, Africa
Here is a copy of our latest prayer letter:
Dear Praying Friends and Family,
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and
the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called
Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of
Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! We want to wish you all a blessed time with
your family and friends this Christmas season!
Remember the true meaning of Christmas, that Jesus was born to die to
save us from our sins. What a great
reason to celebrate!!
We’ve sent out our mass mailing to raise support for our
survey trip. We are praying that those
receiving will be willing to give as God gives them the abundance.
In November, we traveled to Hanover, Pennsylvania to hear
Brother David Bennett (Silent Word Ministries International) give a series on
the Theology of ‘Sweet’ Persecution. The
messages were challenging and it was enjoyable to meet with fellow believers. Bruce was also able to interpret 3 of the
sessions for a deaf couple who came.
On the home front, Bruce has been blessed to find a
supplemental job working at Divine Providence Hospital as a floor janitor. It is 40 hr/wk and a great work environment!
Looking ahead, we are excited that our March 2013 schedule has
been almost filled up with meetings! We
will be at Harvest Baptist in New Hartford, CT for their Missions Conference in
the last week of February to the 3rd of March. Then it’s off to Gospel Light Baptist with
Pastor Matt Swiatkowski on the 9th and 10th, and finally
up to Mass. to Adams Square Baptist with Pastor Kris Casey on the 24th. We also are going to a Missions Conference at
Loomis Park Baptist Church in MI the end of April/beginning of May with Pastor Rich
Zawadzki.
Thank you for your prayers and support. Please continue to pray that we are able to
schedule more meetings and represent the Lord well in them.
For His Glory,
Bruce and Amanda Stuart
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Gabon, Africa
Below is a copy of the most recent missionary update that my husband and I sent out. Please pray for us, and if you would like to receive our updates, email us at "stuarts2gabon@gmail.com" We will be happy to add you to our mailing list!
Dear praying friends,
Only 7 more months until we plan to leave for Gabon, Africa on our survey trip!! We praise the Lord for His abundant provision, and for giving us safety as we travel to churches presenting our ministry.
In August, we were with Pastor Mark Passmore at Abundant Life Baptist Church of Naugatuck, CT. This is a growing church, and it was exciting to see the people's heart for God. Just this past weekend, we traveled a short distance to Victory Baptist Church of Linden, PA. I, Bruce, preached in both the AM and PM services, and although we did not show our DVD presentation, I was able to give a brief testimony of our burden for Gabon. Lord willing, we have been asked to go back and show our presentation on October 21st. We are also scheduled to be with Pastor Jim Townsley and the folks at Central Baptist Church in Southington, CT on September 30th.
We currently have about 1/10 of our estimated funds needed to take this trip. God has been very gracious to us in supplying this need. In November, we will be sending out letters from the mission board, which will give more details about the trip and what funds are needed.
Thank you for your prayers and support. Please take a moment to read the praises and prayer requests on the bottom of this letter. May God bless you.
--
For His Glory,
Bruce & Amanda Stuart
Psalm 119:172
PRAISES!
-Wonderful meetings in 3 churches this summer!
-Meetings scheduled for the Fall!
-1/10 of estimated support raised already!
PRAYER REQUESTS:
-That we would be able to schedule more meetings for the Fall and Winter
-For safety in travel and for no car trouble (our vehicles are starting to show their age :)
-That churches would partner with us, prayerfully and financially
Dear praying friends,
Only 7 more months until we plan to leave for Gabon, Africa on our survey trip!! We praise the Lord for His abundant provision, and for giving us safety as we travel to churches presenting our ministry.
In August, we were with Pastor Mark Passmore at Abundant Life Baptist Church of Naugatuck, CT. This is a growing church, and it was exciting to see the people's heart for God. Just this past weekend, we traveled a short distance to Victory Baptist Church of Linden, PA. I, Bruce, preached in both the AM and PM services, and although we did not show our DVD presentation, I was able to give a brief testimony of our burden for Gabon. Lord willing, we have been asked to go back and show our presentation on October 21st. We are also scheduled to be with Pastor Jim Townsley and the folks at Central Baptist Church in Southington, CT on September 30th.
We currently have about 1/10 of our estimated funds needed to take this trip. God has been very gracious to us in supplying this need. In November, we will be sending out letters from the mission board, which will give more details about the trip and what funds are needed.
Thank you for your prayers and support. Please take a moment to read the praises and prayer requests on the bottom of this letter. May God bless you.
--
For His Glory,
Bruce & Amanda Stuart
Psalm 119:172
PRAISES!
-Wonderful meetings in 3 churches this summer!
-Meetings scheduled for the Fall!
-1/10 of estimated support raised already!
PRAYER REQUESTS:
-That we would be able to schedule more meetings for the Fall and Winter
-For safety in travel and for no car trouble (our vehicles are starting to show their age :)
-That churches would partner with us, prayerfully and financially
Sunday, August 12, 2012
"I Know Whom I Have Believed"
- I know not why God’s wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.- Refrain:
But “I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day.”
- Refrain:
- I know not how this saving faith
To me He did impart,
Nor how believing in His Word
Wrought peace within my heart. - I know not how the Spirit moves,
Convincing men of sin,
Revealing Jesus through the Word,
Creating faith in Him. - I know not what of good or ill
May be reserved for me,
Of weary ways or golden days,
Before His face I see. - I know not when my Lord may come,
At night or noonday fair,
Nor if I walk the vale with Him,
Or meet Him in the air.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
A Personal Testimony
Since my husband and I got married in January, I have been searching for a job. Finally, just a few weeks ago, my search ended! I was first offered a job at McDonald's, which I accepted, but after just one week of working there, I was offered a better job. Our landlord owns a gas station/market, and he graciously gave me a position there. I am now in my second week of working there, and thoroughly enjoy it.
There are many things that I could question, such as, "Why did it take almost 6 months to acquire a job?" I also had become quite accustomed to being a stay at home wife, and it was a little difficult to adjust to an outside work schedule again. I definitely look forward to the day when I can once again be a stay at home wife (and hopefully mother ;), but know this is God's will for the time being.
I don't often share too many details about my life publicly, but I hope this will encourage someone who may be struggling out there. You see, my husband and I have a great burden to reach the Deaf of Gabon, Africa with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and we would love to be there even right now. Yet God's plan and timing are perfect, and sometimes we must simply wait and trust Him. Sometimes, we must do things that are not necessarily in our plan, but things that are a part of His plan. To be a missionary or pastor's wife is certainly a great honor, responsibility, and calling. However, we cannot jump ahead of God's plan. I would love to be on the mission field right now, discipling ladies, teaching children, helping my husband in the ministry, but I cannot get ahead of God's plan and miss the blessings of today. Here, God is surely training me for future ministry and I must be patient and serve Him wholeheartedly in my present position.
And so I encourage you, don't get ahead of God. Open your eyes to the opportunities around you, (lost souls are everywhere), and live your life for God today. As you obey Him, He will open doors in His timing, and lead you in His perfect will. Give up your desires, your goals, and ambitions, and say, "Here am I, Lord, send me. Wherever You lead, I'll follow." Lastly, as you follow God and experience His blessing, be sure to give Him ALL the glory. We take the time to bring our requests for help and guidance to God, but how often do we then take the credit for things accomplished, instead of giving it to the One who allowed us to accomplish the tasks.
"Because He is, I am; because He will, I can;
All my hope is standing on His promises;
Because He gave, I give; because He died, I live;
I am, I am, because He is."
*If you have any prayer requests you would like to share, I would love to pray for you!!
Because of Him,
Amanda
There are many things that I could question, such as, "Why did it take almost 6 months to acquire a job?" I also had become quite accustomed to being a stay at home wife, and it was a little difficult to adjust to an outside work schedule again. I definitely look forward to the day when I can once again be a stay at home wife (and hopefully mother ;), but know this is God's will for the time being.
I don't often share too many details about my life publicly, but I hope this will encourage someone who may be struggling out there. You see, my husband and I have a great burden to reach the Deaf of Gabon, Africa with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and we would love to be there even right now. Yet God's plan and timing are perfect, and sometimes we must simply wait and trust Him. Sometimes, we must do things that are not necessarily in our plan, but things that are a part of His plan. To be a missionary or pastor's wife is certainly a great honor, responsibility, and calling. However, we cannot jump ahead of God's plan. I would love to be on the mission field right now, discipling ladies, teaching children, helping my husband in the ministry, but I cannot get ahead of God's plan and miss the blessings of today. Here, God is surely training me for future ministry and I must be patient and serve Him wholeheartedly in my present position.
And so I encourage you, don't get ahead of God. Open your eyes to the opportunities around you, (lost souls are everywhere), and live your life for God today. As you obey Him, He will open doors in His timing, and lead you in His perfect will. Give up your desires, your goals, and ambitions, and say, "Here am I, Lord, send me. Wherever You lead, I'll follow." Lastly, as you follow God and experience His blessing, be sure to give Him ALL the glory. We take the time to bring our requests for help and guidance to God, but how often do we then take the credit for things accomplished, instead of giving it to the One who allowed us to accomplish the tasks.
"Because He is, I am; because He will, I can;
All my hope is standing on His promises;
Because He gave, I give; because He died, I live;
I am, I am, because He is."
*If you have any prayer requests you would like to share, I would love to pray for you!!
Because of Him,
Amanda
Thursday, June 21, 2012
How to be a Victorious Christian
It has been very busy in my life lately, and I haven't had much time to blog. Last week, we had revival meetings at Tabernacle Baptist Church, and it was a blessing to hear Bro. John VanGelderen preach God's Word.
He preached 3 phenomenal messages on "Life" that were for me, life-changing. If you have the time, I would strongly encourage you to follow this link to the church website and listen to the messages. The first one is "The Christ Life", followed by "The Overcoming Life", and ending with "The Overflowing Life." Allow God to speak to your heart through these messages and live a victorious Christian life through Christ!!
Revival Messages
He preached 3 phenomenal messages on "Life" that were for me, life-changing. If you have the time, I would strongly encourage you to follow this link to the church website and listen to the messages. The first one is "The Christ Life", followed by "The Overcoming Life", and ending with "The Overflowing Life." Allow God to speak to your heart through these messages and live a victorious Christian life through Christ!!
Revival Messages
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Good Afternoon, blogger friends!! I had the privilege of hearing this preacher when I went on a missions trip in 2010. Pastor David Teis is doing a great work at Liberty Baptist Church in Las Vegas, NV. This message, "Love Them Like Jesus" truly was a great blessing and challenge to me. I encourage you to listen to it, as well.
Friday, May 25, 2012
1 Year Ago Today...
One year ago today, May 25, 2011, the most wonderful man in the world asked me to marry him!! Of course, I said "YES", and now we have been married nearly 5 months! I love my husband so much. God is SO good all the time!!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Serving God is Worth It!
It is hard to believe that the month of April is almost over! It is also hard to believe it's been almost a year since I graduated from college! Last year, I wasn't even engaged yet and did not expect to be until at least the fall. What a pleasant surprise it was when on May 25, 2011, Bruce asked me to marry him. I was overjoyed and excited! As the summer months began, Bruce went away to work at the Bill Rice Ranch as a Deaf Counselor. I was working full-time at Walgreens as well as a part-time job and it was a good thing, because I missed him very much.
In August, he returned and we continued our wedding planning. Our original plan was to live in CT, but God had other plans. After 3 months of searching and not finding a job, Bruce returned to his home state of PA and almost immediately got a job with the gas company. It was amazing to watch as God then opened doors for us to live in PA. He gave us a nice apartment at a very affordable price and also supplied about 80% of our furniture! At the gas company, Bruce had to work 16 hour days for over 30 days straight, a very big challenge for both of us. Not only was he extremely tired, but we were unable to talk much, which can put a strain on any relationship. But God knew what was best, and in December, He took him off the gas drilling fields and gave him a job working in one of the gas companies supply shops. He gave him wonderful hours; Mon-Fri. 7am-5:30pm, and all weekends off! God helped us through the last few months of separation before our wedding on January 13, 2012. Now we have been married 3 1/2 months already, and it has been a wonderful blessing to together grow closer to God and each other.
Currently, we are staying busy in our local church, Tabernacle Baptist Church. The Pastor and people here are very friendly and we have been enjoying getting to know them better through the activities and ministries of the church. My husband is quite musical and plays the trombone in the church orchestra (I didn't even know he played one until we got married)! Lord willing, we hope to establish a deaf ministry here soon. There is already one deaf lady who comes on Sunday mornings, and many more live out in Williamsport that can be reached. It is our prayer to see many of these accept Christ and grow in Him.
Long-term goals: My husband and I are both burdened for Missions, particularly with the Deaf in Gabon, Africa. We are praying for the Lord's guidance and timing in going to this needy field. It is not always easy to wait on God's timing, but I know that He will open the doors when He sees fit. One door that He has opened is for us to be able to go on a survey trip next spring!! We will be gone almost the entire month of April 2013, surveying both Gabon and parts of South Africa! More information on that will be coming probably in June.
It is definitely exciting to be serving the King of Kings!! What a great privilege we have to serve Him!
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace."
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
A Song of Motivation
"Here I Am, Lord"
(This is a great song, and what an awesome privilege we have to be ambassadors for the King of Kings!)
I, the Lord, of sea and sky
I have heard my people cry
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save
I who made, the stars of night,
I will make their darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?
I, the Lord, of snow and rain
I have borne my people's pain
I have wept for love of them
They turn away
I will break their hearts of stone
Give them hearts for love alone
I will speak my word to them
Whom shall I send?
I, the Lord, of wind and flame
I will tend the poor and lame
I will set a feast for them
My hand will save
Finest bread I will provide
Till their hearts be satisfied
I will give my life to them
Whom shall I send?
Here I am, Lord
Is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night
I will go, Lord
If you lead me
I will hold your people in my heart
(This is a great song, and what an awesome privilege we have to be ambassadors for the King of Kings!)
I, the Lord, of sea and sky
I have heard my people cry
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save
I who made, the stars of night,
I will make their darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?
I, the Lord, of snow and rain
I have borne my people's pain
I have wept for love of them
They turn away
I will break their hearts of stone
Give them hearts for love alone
I will speak my word to them
Whom shall I send?
I, the Lord, of wind and flame
I will tend the poor and lame
I will set a feast for them
My hand will save
Finest bread I will provide
Till their hearts be satisfied
I will give my life to them
Whom shall I send?
Here I am, Lord
Is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night
I will go, Lord
If you lead me
I will hold your people in my heart
Thursday, April 12, 2012
My Love Story - Part 2
The ending to my love story is now posted on Rebecca's blog! http://unusualmaidenbutterflydays.blogspot.com/2012/04/amandas-story-part-2.html I pray that it will be a blessing and encouragement to someone. God's way is the best way!!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
My Love Story...How God brought my husband and I together
The first part of my story is now on Rebecca's blog! Follow this link to read it: http://unusualmaidenbutterflydays.blogspot.com/2012/04/amandas-story-part-1.html To God be All the Glory for bringing us together!!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
My "Love Story"; God's Divine Plan
The story of how God led my husband and I together will be posted on my friend Rebecca's blog in a couple of days. Be sure to check out this link: http://unusualmaidenbutterflydays.blogspot.com
"The Tale of the Four Brides" are the "love stories" of me and three friends of mine. I ask you to read them as I believe they will be an encouragement and challenge.
It is truly a blessed thing to enjoy a Godly marriage. It is hard work, but God is good! By following His Word and leading, marriage is the most wonderful and sacred relationship here on earth.
To God Be All the Glory...He desires it, He deserves it. Let's give Him the praise in EVERY aspect of our lives!!
"The Tale of the Four Brides" are the "love stories" of me and three friends of mine. I ask you to read them as I believe they will be an encouragement and challenge.
It is truly a blessed thing to enjoy a Godly marriage. It is hard work, but God is good! By following His Word and leading, marriage is the most wonderful and sacred relationship here on earth.
To God Be All the Glory...He desires it, He deserves it. Let's give Him the praise in EVERY aspect of our lives!!
Friday, March 23, 2012
The Call of God
Every Christian should follow the call of God in their life. God has a special plan and purpose for every human being. Everyone is different, some feel called to be preachers, some evangelists, some missionaries, and some simply laymen. Each one of these is special and unique. None are better than the others, and all should have the same goal, to bring glory to the Lord.
My husband and I feel the Lord's call on our life to be missionaries to the deaf in Gabon, Africa. Many people ask me, "Where is Gabon? I have never heard of it before." Honestly, when I was dating my husband and he told me about Gabon, I had no idea either. In this blog, I'd like to share some facts about this little country that is slightly small than Colorado.
Gabon is located in Central Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, and between the Republic of the Congo and Equatorial Guinea. The climate is very tropical, and it is always hot and humid (I love that fact). It's capital is Libreville, a large city comparable to Miami, and also one of the most expensive cities in the world. The country's population is estimated at around 1,600,000 and the official language is French. It is probably the most peaceful country in Africa, with a republic government and multiparty presidential regime.
But while Christians make up 55-75% of the country, there has not been found one independent Baptist church there preaching the gospel. Who will reach the people of Gabon? With the Lord's help, we plan to go there, win souls to Christ, baptize, and train them. We will endeavor to establish Gospel-preaching churches and train national pastors to eventually assume responsibility for the churches. Our main focus will be ministering to the deaf there, but of course we will minister to the hearing as well!
In Matthew 9:37, 38, the Bible says, "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest." I am excited to go and serve the Lord in Gabon, and I pray that He will burden more laborers for this needy country.
My husband and I feel the Lord's call on our life to be missionaries to the deaf in Gabon, Africa. Many people ask me, "Where is Gabon? I have never heard of it before." Honestly, when I was dating my husband and he told me about Gabon, I had no idea either. In this blog, I'd like to share some facts about this little country that is slightly small than Colorado.
Gabon is located in Central Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, and between the Republic of the Congo and Equatorial Guinea. The climate is very tropical, and it is always hot and humid (I love that fact). It's capital is Libreville, a large city comparable to Miami, and also one of the most expensive cities in the world. The country's population is estimated at around 1,600,000 and the official language is French. It is probably the most peaceful country in Africa, with a republic government and multiparty presidential regime.
But while Christians make up 55-75% of the country, there has not been found one independent Baptist church there preaching the gospel. Who will reach the people of Gabon? With the Lord's help, we plan to go there, win souls to Christ, baptize, and train them. We will endeavor to establish Gospel-preaching churches and train national pastors to eventually assume responsibility for the churches. Our main focus will be ministering to the deaf there, but of course we will minister to the hearing as well!
In Matthew 9:37, 38, the Bible says, "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest." I am excited to go and serve the Lord in Gabon, and I pray that He will burden more laborers for this needy country.
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