|
|
|
|
Testimonies Of The Goodness Of GodJohn 8:31,32 “If you hold to my teaching, you are my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” If this ministry (a church service, newsletter, web site, etc.) has been a blessing to you, we want to know about it. Please send your testimony via the Feedback page, or mail to Testimonies, Living Faith Christian Center, 1304 Winsted Road, Torrington, Connecticut, 06790
LISTEN TO GOD'S VOICE - November 2007 A few weeks ago I noticed that I had to pump the brakes to get my truck to stop. I figured it was due to low brake fluid. I dropped my son off at church and was planning to stop at my friend’s house who lives at the top of a steep hill. I heard that inward voice telling me not to go, but I kept arguing with it. After I bit, I starting to be concerned if something happened to the truck, me and my other two sons who where in the car with me, so I decided to heed that voice and not go up the hill. When my husband checked the truck, he noticed fluid gushing out of broken brake lines! Praise God that I finally stopped arguing and listened to God warning me. - Toni S.
GOD'S PROTECTION OVER SON - November 2007 I always pray over my family and ask God to send angels to protect them from harm, since I cannot be everywhere and they are teens now. I was away at work and my kids where given permission by there father to go to a nearby neighbor's house that night. The three of them were crossing the street when my oldest child was struck by a speeding car going well over 40 mph. He hit the windshield and shattered it, dented the hood of car and flew up in the air very high - spectators said he was thrown over 20 feet. He landed near a tree on the grass. My other two children were frantic, as my oldest son laid there in a mangled motionless state. My daughter was in shock, screaming for help, and she was having the worst thoughts. My son was transported to the hospital by ambulance - they x-rayed everything, from head to toe, gave him a cat scan. I am glad to report that he walked away with a tiny little scratch, a few of bruises and a hand full of pain killers for his soreness! The doctors were amazed as were police. They all told him “You got some one looking over you!” I PRAISE GOD for I know He had his hand in this and I will never stop praying for my family's protection. - Christina T.
MOTHER HEALED - October 2007 My mother was visiting us for a while recently. Pastor Diane prayed for healing on her knee. At first, my mother didn’t receive it, however, or on her way home she decided to come back to the Lord. She prayed on her drive home to return to where she once was with God and the Lord gave her Hebrews 3:12-14 (Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; 13 but exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end). The next day, there was no pain in her knee. She wanted me to thank our Pastors and everyone at LFCC for making her feel welcome and having such an obvious heart for God. -Mark G.
PRAYING FOR FULL-TIME WORK - October 2007 A while back we prayed for me to be hired permanently at a job that I had been temping at. Just a few weeks ago I was asked to continue as a full-time employee. Praise God, prayer does work! -Ken F.
BUSINESS CONTINUES TO BE BLESSED BEYOND HOPE - October 2007 God is truly blessing my business far above I can even ask or think. Almost everyday we have new members, our phones haven’t stopped ringing and we are quickly outgrowing our new space. We have finally hired our first instructor. We had 65 people in our studio on a Saturday in September for our “Biggest Loser” program, which was advertised in all the local papers for FREE! In a 10-minute lease negotiation, the studio got everything we wanted and more for our new location. The rent will be $3000 less per month, and almost double the usable space. The landlord also offered 2 months free rent and an additional 10 months of reduced rent (we only asked for 6 months). God has truly amazed me on how quickly the business is growing. - Jenn M.
PATIENCE WON - October 2007 This year did not start out very well. Joe really didn’t have a lot of work and bills were starting to get neglected. At first I was a little anxious. I thought about getting a job and I was trying to figure out how to solve our financial problem myself. Finally after a wake up call from God, I decided not to worry and to put our finances in his hands. Six months went by and finally we had breakthrough. Joe got and still is getting a lot of work. Our fridge that was here when we bought our house was on its last leg and someone out of the blue gave us a new one exactly what I wanted. Joey’s armoire broke and someone gave us a new one that is so much better than his old one. We updated our living room and some one paid for the molding and also to have it installed. We had a new tile floor installed in our upstairs bathroom for free. We got various gift certificates and money gifts that were greatly appreciated. Joe was at a Yankees game and picked up what he thought was one of those dollar bill tracks when he got home and looked at it he discovered that it was actually a $100 bill. Joe’s laptop was acting up and Dell fixed it for free and put in a new mother board. The most recent praise report is that our television broke (we didn’t tell anyone) and someone gave us a 42” HDTV for free. Everyday things just keep getting better and better, God is so good. He just keeps blessing us. -Amanda L.
AWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE - September 2007 I have been working with MaryKay for 3 years now, with a large thanks to my recruiter, Julie, who has given her team guidance, support, training and prayers. All the women in our unit look up to her and value her and we give God the glory for our success and been more open to the things of God. The company awards the “Miss Go Give Award” to an individual who is always giving of herself. Julie has been looking out for others, being prompt and staying late, going the extra mile. This award is special, as you can’t earn it or work towards it, it is received by character. Julie was first awarded “Miss Go Give” my first year with Mary Kay. This year the “Miss Go Give” Award was given to Julie again, who is all these things and more. Julie and I also received a recognition for team building. I was completely overwhelmed when I realized that I was awarded "most improved" and "Queen Court of Sales" (#1 in the unit) I know that because of God’s guidance through prayer and others, and being obedient to that direction, God has honored me. I give all the Glory to God. -D. Lum
FEVER DOESN’T HOLD 11-YEAR OLD DOWN - September 2007 A few weeks ago, I wasn’t feeling very well on a Wednesday before church. Right before we had to leave for church, my mom took my temperature and it was 104. I really wanted to go to church. So my family prayed and laid hands on me, took some medicine and we went. I was tired, but sat in the service and listened to Pastor Diane teach. By the time we got home, the fever was gone and I slept soundly. At church and home, I’ve been taught for years now that I’m healed and how to get my healing, and I wasn’t going to let the devil get me down! - T. Brett
TOO MANY BLESSINGS TO COUNT - September 2007 So many great things have happened in the past few weeks, I just had to write a praise report and thank our Pastors for teaching and guiding us in the little and big things. First, one day, I prayed while driving asking God the direction I should go. On the way (which was a bit different for me), my car broke down, but I was able to get my to a safe place and get a tow truck to come, even though my car club membership had expired. Once the repairs were done, it was $10 less than what they quoted me. Before that, I accidentally shut my finger in the car door. Immediately I prayed I was healed and by the end of the day it was fine. Finally, recently I felt impressed to pray for someone in my family - I didn’t know who, but just started praying for my family members. A few days later, I found out when I was praying that my aunt had to go to the hospital with pneumonia where they also found out she had a heart attack. But, praise God, she was able to come home in just 5 days with no signs of a heart attack or pneumonia. God is so good and He answers prayers! - C. Nodine
PRAYING FOR OTHERS WORKS - September 2007 We’ve been praying for the lost at Thursday night corporate prayer. I interviewed someone a year ago for a mechanic position, didn’t hire him then, but held on to his resume. A year later, he came back, we talked and I hired him. I then found out that he’s a Christian. Another mechanic gave his heart to the Lord a few weeks ago. At first he didn't’ have a church to go to, but now he does. God’s Kingdom is growing! -M. Goodfield
Guidance Brought Safety - August 2007 While my daughter was in Hawaii visiting family, she and her aunt here at the beach. She didn’t feel like she should go into the water that day, so they both just sat on the beach. Later that day they found out that 18 people went to the hospital for man-o-war (jellyfish) stings. Thank you Holy Spirit for giving her guidance. -D. Lum
Turned Around - August 2007 A few Wednesdays ago, I was recovering from an attack from Satan and I decided not to go to church. As I sat home receiving my healing, I got a phone call from my brother who I haven’t seen in 3 years. We ended up getting together that night for coffee and I ministered to him with very satisfying results. God is good! - Al F.
Satan Can't Steal Anything - August 2007 Recently I was able to purchase a new car (Yeah God!). It was supposed to have a leather-wrapped steering wheel, but the dealer couldn’t put one on because of the wiring harness. So, they are giving me 3 years of free servicing!! So much better than a steering wheel!! -Stephen M.
COST OF FURNACE COVERED - August 2007 Last winter we were in need of a new furnace. We called our oil company and they said it was going to cost about $6,000 to replace. we didn’t have an extra $6,000 laying around so I prayed and asked God for the money and then I started confessing that we had a new furnace and it was paid for in full. We decided in order to save some money that we could buy a furnace which cost $2,300 (an amount we still didn’t have) and Kevin and his father could install it. Everyday I continued to thank God that that we had a new furnace and that it was paid for in full. About a week later we got a phone call from someone offering to let us use their Home Depot credit card to purchase the furnace. Home Depot was offering no payments for up to a year with interest free financing. We decided to take them up on their offer and we were going to pay them back with our income tax rebate check. I hated the fact that we were going to have to use $2300 of our income tax money to pay for a furnace so I just kept thanking God that our furnace was paid for in full. Well, the week that I wanted to file my taxes, I couldn't because we were still waiting on some paperwork. I was kind of upset because I just wanted to pay off the furnace. A few days later I received an email from someone informing me of a couple tax credits that pertain to people who have students in college (that’s me!) which I never new about. When I received the final documents for my taxes a couple days later I filed my taxes and found out that the tax credit that I didn’t know about gave me an extra $2,000! God is so good! He paid for our furnace just like his Word said He would. “My God shall supply all of my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!” Amen! - The Levesque family
July 2007 In the past, Pastor Greg had a chest x-ray in which the doctors said he had a lot of scar tissue from past asthma. Recently he had a new x-ray - no sign of scar tissue and his lungs are in excellent shape!!!!
KIDS MINISTERING TO KIDS - July 2007 At a Sidewalk Sunday School event (truck ministry), our 10-year old daughter had the opportunity to witness to a 9-year old girl. They talked about Jesus and their relationship with God. The little girl can’t wait to come back and hear more about God. - The Chadwick Family
INSTANT HEALING - July 2007 During a recent Sunday service, Pastor Diane spoke words of healing. Our daughter received healing at that moment in her foot! Praise God, He is so faithful!! - The Stewarts
Business Being Marketed By God - July 2007 My business, which is 1 year old, has been so blessed by God and exposed to the public in so many awesome ways. First, the business got 3rd place in the region’s Best of Fitness Center (no other studios placed except us) and 2nd place in Best of Pilates. We were contacted by a television station to air a story on our studio and it’s success. Also, in less than a week, we received 4 new members. Then, about a week late, the same television station did a story on a dance class that I teach at the studio, which brought in more new clients. I prayed that God would show me what to focus on in marketing our business, instead God marketed it for us. -Jennifer Miller, Core Fitness
TRIED AND PROVEN - June 2007 My testimony is being awarded financial aid to go to school. I was awarded financial aid to attend Northwestern CT Community College last fall. I was on academic probation because of a sign language class I took five years ago now, and dropped without going through the proper guidelines. I passed my two classes with flying colors this semester but it wasn’t enough to pull my GPA up, which resulted in the suspension of my financial aid. I in turn had to go through an appeal’s process explaining why I felt I was still deserving of the financial aid. I had to acquire letters of recommendations from my teacher and my tutor. After sending in everything that was required of me I received a phone call notifying me that my appeal’s process meeting was going to be during my vacation and that there was no rescheduling it. I turn had to write a letter forfeiting my rights to contest their decision, and so I did. When I returned from my vacation I had not received a letter of the judgment that was passed, and here it was days before I was to attend class. On top of that my current registration was cancelled. Let me tell you, I was in the natural freaking out! Honestly! This was a fight of faith for me all the way. I had the Pastor Dave and Diane pray with me before I left, while in tears over the whole thing. I knew it was going to work out in my spirit, but when I came back from vacation with only days left to register and pay for class, and knowing I did not have the money and not knowing where the money was going to come from I was on overload. I spoke with a close friend and asked to borrow money, I was embarrassed to do so, but that is where I was. My head and emotions where taking over my spirit. This whole thing experience was such a learning experience. My friend told me to get quiet before God, stand on what was told to me. The strength of my friend helped me to stand. I knew everything was going to be alright, but my head was screaming, “You only have days to register, you only have half the money for class, what are you going to do?” (Amazing how those things can drown out what you know in your heart sometimes.) Anyways I stood and decided that no matter what I was going to take the one class and just write the check for it and believe that I would have the rest by that weekend. Well God had a surprise for me. I went down to register to find out that they allowed me to have the financial aid, enough to take the two classes that I wanted plus a little money left over to purchase at least one book and half of the other book that I needed. On my first day of school I went to the cashiers office to get my voucher for the bookstore and found out that my financial aid had been increased even more than what they had originally told me on Friday before school started. So I was able to get my two books for class, two binders, two notebooks, pens, study sheets and a study book with over $300 to spare! God is awesome and I appreciate the learning experience that this was for me. Many times when things are good we believe we are somewhere in faith then a trial shows differently. Each trial is a growth experience that in the end is worth so very much to us. I’m grateful to God for what He did even though my head and emotions at times got in the way. I’m grateful to our Pastors and close friends who help us to stand and encourage us not to give up! Thank You! - B. Koutroumanis
SPRING BREAK BLESSINGS - June 2007 I have been abundantly blessed while staying on campus this past spring break. The cafeteria had been closed so I had to buy groceries. However, I didn’t have to pay for most of my food. It began a few weeks before break when my grandmother called me and asked for my bank account number to deposit money in it. It was enough for my to get groceries and had food left over. One other day, my boss bought me two meals. My friends asked me to go to the dollar theater - I didn’t have the money, but God supplied through another person with extra. Two days later, I received an unexpected check for $75. Two days after that, friends paid for a dinner out. It was amazing to see God providing for more than just basic food, but invitations out for meals paid for. For a while, I was tithing at a church here at college, but my heart was not at peace. I questioned this because I had been tithing here while at school and at LFCC when at home. So I decided that I would tithe at my church, LFCC because that is were God planted me and where my heart is. So I determined to give my tithe and offerings based of what I needed AND wanted, instead of just off my income, and the results were more than enough. God is so good! -A. Hubbard
MORTGAGE RATE CUT IN HALF - June 2007 About two months ago, our adjustable rate mortgage interest rate was going up over 12%. After praying and seeking the right alternative, God directed us to a different lender, where we got a fixed rate at almost half of our existing rate. God definitely looked out for us! - The Stoner’s
HUSBAND AND WIFE BOTH BLESSED - June 2007 One morning on the way to work, I decided to buy my co-workers bagels & coffee - showing them the love of God in a small way. A few hours later, we had a company meeting. We were all given $10 gift cards from the same place I bought that morning’s breakfast. Then I received a bonus check for the equivalent of a week’s pay. Sowing truly works. - D. Goodfield We get a safety/attendance bonus every quarter at my work when we don’t miss any work and is accident free. A few weeks ago, I received the bonus for $200. Then, I received an additional check for perfect attendance for the entire year for $750. Malachi 3:10 works for me! - M. Goodfield
WALKING STRONG - June 2007 Recently I was out shopping and when coming out of the store I stepped into a pothole, twisted and popped my ankle to the point of swelling, tingling and numbness. The first words out of my mouth on the way to my car were, “Nice try Satan, but I am still going to do the visitation ministry. Did you forget again that Jesus bought me with His blood, bore my sicknesses and pain and I am whole intact and healed?” I can only imagine what people were thinking - seeing my limp and talk to myself - but I didn’t care. I went to visitation where Ps Brenda and Amber prayed with me. I continued the entire evening without a problem. That night, I said, “It’s all yours, God.” Very quickly there was no swelling and no bruising at all! -T. Fields
How LFCC Has Changed Me - May 2007 I’ve been a professional tile setter for 20 years. About 12 years ago I asked my cousin Ted, to come work with me (he was at a job that he wasn’t happy). We started working together and we became best friends, and he became one of the best tile setters I have ever seen. I attribute our deep friendship and his ability to learn and flourish to the person he was. We both grew up catholic, just going to church on Christmas Eve and Easter. But Ted always knew that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and something about that made us better than we once were. That simple belief in Ted’s heart encouraged him to be the person that he is. People would describe Ted as a great guy, never thinks about himself over others, kind, giving, very patient, calm and understanding, a hard worker and never complains, positive, and wants to do the bet for others. And then there was me...all I ever thought I should be doing something better than this - it was all about me. T wanted to be the hot shot driving around in fancy cars, wearing nice clothes, running the show with doing the least amount of work (especially physical labor) for the most amount of money. I was constantly complain, make negative comments about doing tile work and truly envious of those in that “better” position that I thought I earned and deserved after doing the hard work for so many years. In 1997 that envy led me to tell Ted I was leaving him on his own to work alone and develop his business on his own, while I went out to try and be Mr. Hot Shot. I tried everything I could think of to make money over the next 9 years, and now knowing because of all the negative I was talking, nothing ever worked and I ended up spinning into financial disaster and loosing everything. Ted struggled for a while being alone but he ever complained. He stayed persistent and worked extremely hard through tough time until eventually his business flourished. Through the years, I often wondered if I make a mistake by doing what I had done to Ted and tried to redevelop our relationship both professionally and personally, but could tell Ted always struggled with it. Our relationship had just dwindled away to nothing. In 2006, my wife and I gave our lives to the Lord and started coming to LFCC. Through the love of many here, and the teaching of God’s Word by our wonderful pastors, we’ve learned how to overcome that negativity and the true blessing of tithing, giving cheerfully to the Lord and we are starting to see our financial situation completely turn around. But what has truly blessed us is the power of corporate prayer. Rita & I started coming to Thursday night Corporate Prayer when we were all asked to bring in lists of names of our loved ones that we wanted to make Jesus our Lord (Ted was one of them). After only a few weeks, things started happening. I prayed for the calling that God has put on all of us to be stirred up in our loved ones, that they may all come to know personally the Lord Jesus and the true meaning that God has for each of our loves. After about 3 weeks, my cell phone rang while at home - it was Ted! I was amazed and my mind immediately flashed to corporate prayer. While talking to him, he was same happy self, like nothing had ever happened between us. He told me he was swamped with tile work and asked me if I was interested in doing some work with him. My heart was filled with praise to God, as I listened to him talk like we had just seen each other yesterday. Fighting back tears, I thankfully accepted his offer like he did to me many years ago. Since that call, we stated tile work together again, and our friendship is as strong as ever. The best part is, on the first job together, he asked me about church stating that he saw something different in me. I lit up when I explained to him what I’ve been learning and how with such love we’re taught God’s Word. He “hinted” that he wanted to come, because I could tell he was trying to “shake” that catholic religion off of him. The last time Ted heard anything from the Bible, he was getting a yardstick across the knuckles at Catholic School. The one thing I have now seen is the power of corporate prayer! - M Dlugoleski
HEALED & DIDN’T EVEN KNOW IT - May 2007 Last month during a Saturday cleaning day, Pastor Dave and others prayed over my wrist that I had recently hurt. Tuesday, while at work, I still had my wrist bandaged, but realized that I didn't have any more pain. I immediately unwrapped it and it has caused me no problems since. -D. Goodfield
PRAYED FOR & RECEIVED HEALING - May 2007 We prayed for our daughter during a Wednesday evening service for healing for her tonsils. Two days later she went to the doctors and her tonsils shrank! The doctor saw no need to remove them, as they has originally planned. They didn’t want to perform and unnecessary surgery. We know that God definitely in our Healer! - The Chadwick’s
May 2007 I went to a local tire shop and bought 4 new tires. When they went to put them on, the tires that I has chosen and paid for were not in stock, so the shop blessed me with the best tires they had at the lower price! - C. Britch
BLESSED BEYOND MEAUSRE - May 2007 During the month of April, we have received many blessings. First, we are now officially guardians of a teenage boy who we have been looking after. Then, my husband received a bonus at work equal to 2 weeks pay. Also we had a $100 debt paid for by something else. God is truly blessing us beyond we can ask or think. - The Stoner Family
FURNACE DIVINELY FIXED - May 2007 Recently our furnace broke down right before we were supposed go on vacation. My husband was very upset and kept reminding me that we were leaving in a week for our vacation, and that we did not have the money to put in a new furnace before we left. As he went about getting ready I prayed and asked God that whatever it was that we needed, that He would provide it. I really did not know exactly what to pray, so after we got to our restaurant, I grabbed my cup of coffee and sat in front of the fireplace at work: one to warm up and the other to just sit quietly and pray in tongues. I knew that I did not know the exact thing that we needed but God did and by praying in tongues the Holy Spirit would be able to pray with me for what we needed. That morning our repair man came to fix our small freezer, so I talked to him about the morning we had with our furnace. About five minutes after he left my husband proceeded to call our repair man, who in turn recommended a man that he knew that worked on furnaces, and was someone who was of integrity. We called that person immediately and he was able to meet us at 12:30pm. Our furnace last year had broken down and we had received a recommendation to replace. We found out from this gentleman that the furnace still has another 10 years to go and that it was repairable! The furnace needed a certain part that the repair man does not normally carry but had purchased it for a previous job and didn’t end up use. And the part was still in his truck. The furnace repair man also told us that the furnace was going to need a new motor, which he also had from another previous job. He informed us that he was going to give it to us for free - the only charge would be labor! So with the repair guy coming out on a Saturday, putting in a new part, and a new filter, we were only charged $100! My husband called so excited about everything and all I could do was give glory to God! -B. Koutroumanis
EYES ARE RESTORED - April 2007 Four years ago, I was diagnosed as pre-glaucomic. Today, there is hardly any trace at all. Praise God!!!! -S Chadwick
The Word Heals - April 2007 Just the other day, I spent hours reading the book, “The Ministry of Helps Handbook” by Buddy Bell. A short time later, I reached for something from a high shelf and pulled a muscle in my back. I knew it was an attack from the devil, try to take away the Word of God. So, I sat down and listened to one of Pastor Diane’s CDs on healing, looking up and reading the scriptures. In less than an hour the pain was gone. I praise God and thank Him for Pastor Diane. -C Britch
Believe the Word, Not the Doctors - April 2007 A few years ago, our daughter was diagnosed with a stigmatism and needed glasses. We didn’t received that diagnosis and declared that her eyes have been made perfect by the stripes of Jesus. Recently, she had another eye appointment and they determined that she no longer had the stigmatism and no longer needs to wear glasses. God is wonderful! - The Dubois Family
HEALED INSTEAD OF HYSTERECTOMY - April 2007 For the past six years, I’ve been battling a condition that my doctors weren’t sure what was causing it. I’ve been suffering from chronic pain in my ovaries. The only way I could function during the day was by popping enough pain killers to numb it. There were times when I would double over in pain at work but had to try to hide it from my co-workers. So I would hide in the ladies’ room until the medication would kick in. Finally my doctor told me that I should consider having a hysterectomy. I refused to have one, at first, but them I thought I had no other option until…I started learning how to use and put my faith in Jesus Christ. It took some learning and patience to believe whole heartedly that Jesus has already paid for my sickness and pains. When I would get sick, I would feel discouraged. Then I would repent for my unbelief and would press on. I would have ready scriptures on healing that I would repeat over and over with each attack. This went on for a while. One day, I turned to my husband and asked him when was the last time I was sick? We both realized that I was pain free for several months. By trusting in the Lord rather than waiting for the next attack, I confessed with all my heart that I was healed. It’s been over five months now with no pain...but who’s really counting. -D. Goodfield
I KNEW I WAS HEALED - April 2007 I was having pain in my lower stomach and I was told by doctors that I had cysts on my ovaries. Then Pastor Diane prayed over me that the cysts would be disintegrate. I knew that I was healed at that time. The paid did not cease for a week, but I praised God that I was healed. God is so faithful. Ultrasound later confirmed God’s Word - there are no more cysts on my ovaries and no more pain. I am so glad that I didn’t give into the pain and praised God through it all. - S. Stoddard
BACK HEALED - April 2007 Recently I had hurt my back. After my family left for a Wednesday night service I got in my recliner with the heating pad on my back and settled down. I had my husband put in a prayer request to be in agreement with me for my healing. At that time, I didn’t know, but the church prayed about 7:40 pm. Just around that time, I felt such peace, I had no more pain. The first words out of my mouth were, “I could’ve gone to church.” No more pain, I am completely healed. I even woke up the next day and was walking around for about 5 minutes before I realized that I should be in pain. In the past, usually after a fall, the second day is worst that the first. But I was pain free. Later on at work, my co-workers asked me how I was feeling, and I said I was healed. One of them told me he told the pain might come back later. And satan did try later to give me back that pain. I just told him that I was already healed so he needed to take his symptoms and go. He did! Praise God, no more pain!!!!! -B Ford
The Praise Cure Works - March 2007 I was attacked with a sickness that took me out of work for two day (which hasn’t happened in over 15 years)! Thursday evening God told us our “prayer” basket was full, but our “praise” basket was empty. So, we praised our way out and Friday I was feeling great and energetic! -K. Fenn
Believing Up, Blood Pressure Down - March 2007 We have prayed and been believing for my husband’s blood pressure to come down from 240/110. Recently he got tested again and it was 138/91!!!! Now he can continue his truck license training! -T. Fields
Recognize Your Harvest - March 2007 Recently we have had an overflow of God's favor! Starting in September, we had a $653 debt miraculously cancelled by the IRS...along with an apology--tell me that's not a miracle! We received a $200 clothing shopping spree at Walmart for each of our two children, a $1000 gift card with Merry Maids, and a $300 shopping spree at Coldwater Creek. Not to mention incredible deals put in our path--for example, a $100 electric toothbrush for only $3! The IRS debt being cancelled was not really a surprise. We are faithful tithers and givers--trust me, our bank account often screams that we "can't afford" to do it and we just tell it we can't afford not to. And we regularly confess that the devourer is rebuked for our sakes (Mal. 3:11). So when this debt popped up, we just stood our ground until it was cancelled. Not a big surprise--the Word works! Everything else we just kind of took as wonderful extra blessings from God. But somebody reminded me about seed that I have been sowing. My two teenagers and I have been cleaning the church since May 2005. I even reminded our kids once that if we take care of God's house, he'd take care of ours. We have sowed many hours dusting, vacuuming, scrubbing floors, cleaning toilets and taking out garbage. And it wasn't always easy. Many times I had to arrange transportation for all 3 of us so we could get to the church to do this. And we reaped a harvest--$1000 in cleaning services from Merry Maids! What I had thought was a nice little "extra" blessing was in reality my harvest! And I almost dismissed it! So I started thinking about all the other "extra" blessings. We have sown bags and bags of clothing. Granted some were things the kids had out grown or things we no longer wanted (but clean and in good condition). But some items were my absolute favorite outfits! In both cases, God told us where to sow it and we obeyed. It was easy to obey with the things we no longer wanted or could wear. Not so easy sowing the favorites! And we did receive a harvest--$400 in clothing for our kids and $300 in clothing for me. And at my absolute favorite store! These things we've received over the past few months haven't been "icing on the cake" blessings that God just decided to drop in our laps. They have been the results of the Word at work in our lives. They have been the harvest we've reaped because of our faithful and obedient (and sometimes sacrificial) tithing and sowing--which Pastor Dave and Diane have consistently taught from day one. And we almost didn't recognize it! And I believe this is just the beginning of our harvest finally coming in!! - The Stoner Family
Heart Healed - March 2007 Last fall we prayed for my brother who was diagnosed with heart disease. He was to have a pacemaker implanted. Recently he went in for the scan to map where the pacemaker was to be inserted. The doctors determined that he heart was fully functioning and no pacemaker is now needed! Praise the Lord - He has healed my brother’s heart -V. Warriner
Restoration in Marriage and Finances - March 2007 When my family and I started attending LFCC back in May, we had been out of church for over a year and a half. Sadly to say, it affected us in many ways. As soon as we walked in to LFCC we knew we were at home. I was searching for a Pastor and church that would teach the uncompromised Word of God without making excuses or twisting the Word to fit what the people wanted to hear. And that is what I found at LFCC. I was very excited to hear Pastors Dave and Diane every week preach and teach the Word. What especially caught my attention was the promise from God that the year 2006 would be better at the end then in the beginning and those families and relationships would be restored. I also heard that God wanted and expected us to prosper. John makes a very good salary so the money has always come in. The problem was it went out as quickly. Month after month things were breaking down, and although the money was there to replace the things, we never seemed to get ahead. Our family was suffering as well. John and I were not communicating much at all which in turn affected the children. Within weeks of coming to LFCC, things between John and I got worse. He got angry easily and I received a lot of the cold shoulder, which is something I’ve never dealt well with. (We see now that John was being attacked because Satan didn’t want us in this church.) I became fearful of the future and filled with anxiety. The only thing I knew for sure was I needed to keep my feelings silent from John. I just kept hearing God say to me to not confront him, it would make things worse. This was not easy for me because I’m a fixer. And when I was filled with fear and anxiety my first reaction is to run. Having three children however, didn’t allow me to do that. I couldn’t imagine dragging them from their home and didn’t want them brought up coming from a broken home. So I called Pastor Dave for some council. Both he and Pastor Diane shared with me their story of how God restored their marriage and told me to lift John up in prayer. I was told to thank God that he was a godly husband, spiritual leader of the home, patient, kind, and slow to anger. I was to confess that I was a bold woman, godly, a good mother and wife, and brave. I was to stay in prayer, remain kind, loving, and uplifting. I read a book recommended by Pastor Diane and continued to believe God that everything would be fine - all of which I didn’t want to do. I never heard about positive confession before and couldn’t see a light at the end of the tunnel. I wanted revenge. I wanted to knock him upside the head and have him snap out of it. But, I didn’t. To my surprise God gave me a knowing in my spirit that I could trust my Pastors and I was to obey them. Trust isn’t easy for me, but I had such a sense of peace that I did it anyway. Every morning and evening I did all the things they asked me to do. When I became anxious I confessed, prayed, read my Bible and prayed in tongues. And, to my surprise, little by little, things began to change. Just last month John asked me to marry him again and I said yes. We will be renewing our vows on June 24th of this year after service. Since May, our marriage has been restored, bad debt has been paid off, we are members of LFCC, tithing, serve on Team Ministry, and in good standing. We are whole. God has showed me how important it is to trust my pastors and be obedient to them even when it doesn’t make sense. I thank God every day for bringing us to LFCC, for planting us there, and for restoration in our family. - Toni S.
Can't Outgive God - February 2007 Pastor Dave encouraged the congregation recently to figure out our giving percentage and we wanted to say thank you. We figured out our income and recorded giving and it worked out to be over 26% (WOW!!!!). In the natural, I don’t know how we did that, but we do know now that God has been brining in the harvest even when we didn’t realize it. In 2006 we had all our personal and business bills paid on time and many times early, construction done at our business and house, most months I doubled up on our business loan, and a little extra on our car payments too. God is sooooo good!! Even with a large tax payment last April (over $10,000) and our estimated tax payments due quarterly, God still worked this out. And honestly, we never missed any of the money. We can’t wait to see the harvest on this seed sown!!!!!!!! - The Brett Family
The Devourer Has Been Rebuked - February 2007 I am seeing many new revelations of what God’s word means. When you pray stand believing...I had prayed for and continue to praise God for supernatural debt cancellation. I wasn’t sure how it would come or when it would come but I have been very sure that it would come! I started to look at things in a whole new light. I started looking and expecting God to rebuke the devourer! Then I started to actually see things happen. Things were on sale when I needed more of them. The Lord would remind me when I had a coupon or a gift certificate or a warranty I could use if something wasn’t working right. Instead of having to go buy new things I would use the warranty and it would be replaced or repaired at no extra cost to us! My car was the most recent thing. I had to send it to the shop for some electronic issues. God had directed us to get the extended warranty just on the electronics when we bought the car. The repairs and the rental car are all covered in full. Now, we have started receiving checks from our credit card company that we can use to pay off other debts with 0% financing instead of the 14% or more we had been paying! Also we just got a set of checks from another credit card company offering us an opportunity to transfer any other debt to this card and pay a fixed rate of 4.99% instead of a variable rate of 14% or more! We thank our Father for supernatural debt cancellation in ways that we hadn’t even thought about. I know that all of these things are because we are tithers and givers and the windows of heaven are open above us and when we stand praying and praising God for them for all that he is and all that he does guess what happens? He shows himself strong on our behalf! - The DuBois Family
The Power of Prayer & Faith - February 2007 When we started attending this church almost a year ago, I was completely ignorant about the power of prayer and faith. Diana and I were both going through our own personal storms, but made a decision to walk outside our circumstances and go forward with God. The first blessing I can count was having Diana brought into my life. Words cannot describe how big her heart is. We had some issues with the family and she had not seen her granddaughter in three years. We were praying to have her at our wedding last year. The day after our wedding, we received a phone call from her son and granddaughter. Her granddaughter’s mom had left her abusive new husband and we were able to see her daughter again. God is good! Diana told me afterwards that she had an “urging” to call her son and find out what was going on, but was so involved in the wedding that she had forgotten. (Note to self: always listen to God and your heart!) From there the blessings just kept coming. We both received Christmas bonuses that were much more than we expected. I also received a performance bonus that was almost four times the Christmas bonus. Diana’s youngest son and family have built their new home. Her oldest son has met a wonderful woman, wedding plans are being scheduled and are starting their lives together. My father, who was diagnosed with cancer in his lymphatic system, has down no signs and the doctor’s now say there is little trace of it left. That is just a few of the wonderful things God has done from us this past year. There is so much more, but I would run out of paper to continue. I just want to thank God and our pastors for following His instruction and His Word and for their teaching. We love our pastors and our church family so much. - Mark & Diana Goodfield
Telling Others About Jesus - January 2007 At Living Faith Christian Center, we have been encouraged to give out tracts and free give away tapes (titled, “Tomorrow Doesn’t Have to Be More of the Same” and “How to Have a More Abundant Life.”). I always have tapes and a variety of tracts in my car. I give them to waitresses with great tips and occasionally to a stranger when the Lord leads me. This summer, I put “goodie” bags together with a give away tape, tract, and candy all wrapped in cellophane with a bow. I started giving them out to my hostesses (at my own home business parties) and when I had a booth at fairs. I would ask people if they wanted some information on how to have a more abundant life and most people would smile back and ask, “Free?” or “For me?” Some people would walk by but a lot of them stopped and took it or asked, “What is this all about?” This would create an opportunity to talk about Jesus with them. I’ve used the “goodie” bag idea at an open house as a thank-you gift. One of the guests looked at the tape and asked if I had a different one because she got the tape I had one month ago from me at a fair and really enjoyed it. I had the pleasure of getting to know her and telling her about Jesus and what He has done for us. She has received the Lord and is hungry to hear God’s word. For the holidays, I put together an inexpensive gift (like a coffee cup with coffee sample and hand cream) with a tract and wrap it. Since June, I have given away numerous tracts and over a hundred tapes. I give them to seniors, teens, couples, women, men, and gays. God is no respecter of persons and the word of God does not return void. Give tapes and tracts away today! - D. Lum
The Blood Protects Home & Neighbor's - November 2006 While we were at our business during a recent wind storm a large tree from our neighbor’s yard fell. We have made it a daily morning habit (which we learned from a teaching years ago by Pastor Diane) to plead the blood of Jesus over our house while we are away. The branches from this tree were touching the house and not allowing us to open our back door. But, praise God even though it hit some patio furniture, not one thing on our property was damaged. It even hit our dog’s run cable, but that didn’t even come loose. The next day, our neighbor was so amazed that no damage was done to our house. He also remarked that if the tree fell just a few feet closer to our house, it would’ve severely damaged our daughter’s bedroom or if it fell the other way, it would have damaged half their house. We told him that it was God’s protection that helped, and not luck. We helped our neighbor remove the tree in just a few hours, which he thought would take him two days. So not only did God protect our property, but our neighbor’s too, and helped us all get the clearing done in miraculous time. - The Brett Family
A Blessed Family - October 2006 About a month ago my son and I became part of the family at The Living Faith Christian Center. We have been blessed in so many ways ever since. We began to worship at home immediately following our first visit to the church. We were so inspired by both Pastors Dave and Diane Miller, Pastor Joe and Pastor Greg and everyone else we met at church. We noticed immediately that as we prayed, and praised the Lord that we began to receive. We got a new car the first week. We paid all of our debts completely, and that is just the beginning. I prayed for a new job, as I was looking for more hours to work now that my son is older. I had been discouraged looking in the newspaper for work, so I prayed to the Lord, and gave all power to Him. I had faith suddenly that a door would be opened. The next day I received an email from a friend saying that my old boss from a job I loved years ago had been looking for me. I called him right away and was offered a job. It’s right down the street from my son’s school, the hours are perfect for myself and my son. I thank the Lord so many times a day for all of his blessings. I am so thankful to Pastor Dave and Diane for their wonderful ministry, which gives us the Truth and the hunger for the Word and a life with Jesus. I am also so thankful to my brother, who ministered to me when I was sick, and showed me the way to the Living Faith Christian Center. God is truly amazing in all his works!
Welcomed Home – July 2006 Several months ago, while going through a personal storm, I came across a television program on Tim LaHaye and his fictional series “Left Behind”. At this time, I started to feel a tugging at my heart. I asked for and received from Diana, a Bible to study. Things progressed from there and we decided to look for a local church. I searched the internet and found several different churches in the area. Now, Diana, being of a “religious” background and myself, living in Wisconsin with the native American and traveling the nation, both had experiences that left a bad taste in our mouths for organized religion. We decided to press on and wanted to investigate two churches. Living Faith Christian Center being the closest, we chose to go there first. When we arrived that Sunday morning, we were greeted by such a wonderful couple who were welcoming and friendly and made us feel like we were home. It seemed like they were old friends we had known for year and everyone else we met that day made us feel relaxed and comfortable. No judgments on us, no cliques making us feel like outsiders, just genuine love. We decided that we did not have to check our any other churches, we had found a home. Thank you for all you do in your service. This place has and will always continue to change our lives. We love you all so much again, THANK YOU. - Mark & Diana Goodfield
OUR TEST IS NOW OUR TESTIMONY! – March 2006 Last year at this time things weren’t going so well for our family. There were struggles in our relationship and in our finances. We thank God that we have pastors that teach us the truth and teach us how to grow up by using God’s Word so that we can receive all the blessings that He has for us. The Bible says, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” And the truth is if you put God first in your life and be doers of the word (that means the whole word, not just the parts you like) your circumstances will change! Last year Kevin’s work was hit really hard because of Hurricane Katrina. The person he works for not only owns the body shop where Kevin works but he is also in the manufacturing business. The body shop where Kevin works was just a side adventure his boss took on for his personal car collection but now is one of the top collision shops in the state that cater to high line vehicles. With the shortage of nitrogen and hydrogen that is used in the heat treating of powder metals his boss had no choice but to lays off hundreds of employees and cut the salaries of most of his managers. About a month ago Kevin’s boss called him into his office and starting telling him how bad things were going but he wanted Kevin to know how much he appreciated him. He told him, “I don’t know why I am doing this, but I am going to give you a $2.00 an hour raise.” He might not know why he was giving Kevin the raise but we certainly did. It is because we confess that we have the favor of God upon us and his favor surrounds us like a shield! That favor supernaturally brought us an extra $100 per week! Not only has God turned our finances around but our marriage is stronger than it’s ever been. We thank God that we did not grow weary and faint but we waited on the Lord and he renewed our strength and brought us through to victory. We know this is just the beginning. This is the year of harvest and it is only February and our harvest has been amazing already – we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds. If you are going through something right now, don’t give in to the lies of the devil. He wants you to give up, but don’t be deceived – your victory could be just around the corner. Just be faithful in your tithes and offerings, study and hold on to the Word of God, confess daily over your lives and situations, partner up with your man and women of God and most of all put God first in your life and you will see your test turn into a testimony like we did! - Kevin & Lori Levesque
TOO MUCH GOD - January 2006 I have four testimonies that I'd like to share for this year. First, I was able to qualify for and purchase on my own a new car. In the past, I had always relied on my husband's credit. However, this time my own credit cleared and I qualified for 0% financing. In addition, I had the favor of God surround me. I had a car cleaning kit, wheel locks, and additional coverage, which if unused I will receive a check for 1,500.00 thrown into the deal. My husband was in awe because he usually puts his foot down for these kind of things, and I didn't even ask but received them. Second, I am almost completely out of debt. From what seemed an overwhelming debt, through tracking and changing my spending habits, creating a workable budget, and speaking the word of God, I was able to eliminate over $3,000 of debt, and what debt I have left, I was blessed to have been able receive a low loan rate of 2.9%. I truly do not have to be a servant to the lender as I save and pay cash for cruise and other mini trips, as well as gifts. It is so awesome to see God reward my faithful stewardship by providing my needs as I give to Him first. Third, through a teaching on, “good and giving overcoming evil” I have been able to give in a way and in a place (work) that I had never considered before. I bought 1000 crayons, children's place mats, and movies for my customers enjoyment, and noticed a change of atmosphere in my restaurant. Customers were more peaceful and children were more behaved. It was a blessing to see such a change by giving to them. This has changed my whole outlook on giving and has encouraged me to expect greater things. Last but not least, is the reconciliation of two important relationships, one my oldest daughter, Natasha whom I have not seen in almost 6 years, and my sister Diana. Due to certain circumstance these relationships were missing in my life, but I stood on faith, believing God would reconcile these two very important people in life. I recently helped my sister purchase her wedding dress for her upcoming wedding, and my daughter has started calling and seeing me! I can't tell you how hard it's been to not give up in believing especially for my daughter to come back to me, the pain of missed holidays, birthdays, school years. But I praise God for his wisdom and revelation knowledge and strength to fight the good fight of faith and stand patiently awaiting for what He told me was mine. I praise God for my Pastors who stood by me believing, and praying for me, it's because of LFCC and what they have imparted to me of who God is to me and how I can apply His word to the many different facets of my life. Thank you. - Bobbi-Jo Koutroumanis
Healed of Seizures – December 2005 Two years ago our baby was experiencing seizures. The doctors couldn’t explain why he was having them. We went through tests which weren’t physically painful to our son, but emotionally was tearing us up. When our son had a seizure, he turned colors, was unresponsive and sometimes even looked dead. We were giving him medications that the doctors said would prevent brain damage. At that time our only hope was that he would grow out of the seizures. When our son was 7 months old, I received Jesus in my heart and the Lord led me to LFCC. One month after hearing that healing is for today I truly believed it and grabbed hold of that promise. We brought our son to Pastors Dave & Diane for prayer. They laid hands on him, prayed for wholeness in his body. He is now almost 3 years old and has never had a seizure since. He speaks clearly, has a big vocabulary, is very athletic and loves to praise and worship. The doctors are amazed. Glory to God!! We are eternally grateful that our Pastors have taught us God’s truth about healing and standing on the uncompromised Word of God. - The Lum Family
DOUBLE HONOR WORKS - November 2005 Pastor Dave told the congregation again about double honor for the Pastors and personally partnering with them. I’ve heard it before, but never exactly understood what partnership meant. The Holy Spirit spoke to me through Pastor Dave. The previous week I committed a certain amount to the India Project, and I knew I was supposed to give at least twice that amount to our pastors. I didn’t know where the money would come from, but I knew that if God said do it, He will provide. That week I put my partnership offering in the offering basket. My husband and I have been confessing prosperity scriptures and have abstained from speaking lack and debt. We are givers and have more than enough. We had an opportunity to speak to a manager of a company about doing some home improvements. Our credit report looked over-extended and it has been miraculous that all our bills have been getting paid. Recently the manager called us with approval for almost twice as much as we needed to pay our debts, have the home improvements done and our monthly payments will be saving us hundreds of dollars per month. It’s not how we expected the breakdown the wall of debt, but this answered prayer takes care of our financial issues we were working on. Thank you Pastor Dave & Pastor Diane for not holding back and reiterating the need to partner with your pastors. We needed to hear it again. You definitely blessed us. - The Lum Family
YEAR OF OVERFLOW NOT YET OVER - October 2005 I was going to wait until the end of the year to share our ‘overflow,’ but it would probably be too long! Kjell and I have always ‘done’ the right things: got involved in our local church, tithed, and have given offerings first to our church, then elsewhere faithfully and consistently. We have spoken the word of God over situations, cooperated with the natural, and obeyed God (although we are not perfect and still have much to grow in – people usually want to know, ‘what did you do?’). We have experienced the blessings of God in our lives. BUT nothing has compared to the overflow we are experiencing now BECAUSE we obeyed and partnered with our Pastors personally (faithfully and consistently). We believe as we seek God first (relationship with Him above all else), that all things are added unto us. This year alone we have received: renovations to the house (with a loan that has no interest or payments); all expense paid trip to the beach for me and the girls; special privileges on a business trip at a hotel for Kjell; windshield replaced on the Saturn (full-coverage insurance); clothes for Jeremiah; dresses and sandals for the girls; toys; new stroller and car seat; a full year’s supply of diapers; help with the kids; over $200 in saving on Kjell’s college text books; over $500 savings in new clothes for Marcy; all the girls’ school supplies were paid for; the girls were able to take gymnastics and swim classes this summer and will start soccer soon; someone gave us two pairs of cleats that perfectly fit the girls; I was able to take Katarina on a trip to NY; I had all the baby delivery items I needed; we got a newer van (payments with no interest); we got a bigger pool and a bigger swing set; Kjell received an increase of salary; new suits for Kjell; etc. We can honestly say that we do not have room enough to receive it all! For Answer the Call Ministries, we put out our first music CD and tape; preached three times this year; have 10 committed and faithful financial and prayer partners; we attended the Branson Family Reunion; we published our first workbook, “Everyday Scripture;” purchased presentation supplies; received professional help with our brochure; someone donated a Yamaha Clavinova electric piano; and started the ATC Band. It’s not all about ‘stuff’ though: my children have favor with their teachers; I gave birth to a baby boy this year; Rebekah got saved at Revival in Bethlehem; my two older girls got baptized and one more got filled in the Holy Spirit; we have supernatural protection – both cars were broken into and nothing was stolen or damaged; Kjell is protected to and from work daily (on roads that have had many accidents); we have peace, not only in our home, but with both our families; heightened revelation knowledge from the word, etc. This is the year for overflow and it is not over yet! What does your overflow look like? I would encourage you to start a book of remembrance that has a column for the date, item requested of God, and the date received. It is awesome to learn more about God and see the needs met. I had to use a separate page to list the ‘extras’ – blessings over and above what I asked! - The Fenn Family
THANK YOU GOD FOR THE OVERFLOW IN OUR LIVES! – August 2005 This truly is the year of overflow. So far this year God has blessed us with new flooring for our kitchen, a beautiful Victorian bench for our hallway, a portable basketball hoop, jewelry, a truck and a motorcycle all FREE and it is only July! I thank God that as we are obedient to his word that he does supply all of our needs, exceedingly, abundantly more than we can ever ask or imagine. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds for us! God is so Faithful! - The Levesque Family
SUPERNATURAL RECOVERY - July 2005 Last month I had minor surgery done on my ankle. My doctor and I sat down and discussed what to expect after the surgery. He told me that I would not be able to put pressure on my foot and I would need to use crutches for a couple of weeks. The day of the surgery a nurse came into my room and said to me, “Allie, you are lucky today we have a full staff for you.” I said to myself, it is not luck - it’s the Lord! Soon after surgery I was able to put my foot down and walked without crutches! I came home with a cane but had no use for it. We are healed by His stripes. Praise the Lord. - Allie Loga
BIBLE SCHOOL BLESSING - July 2005 My husband went to LFCC by himself - he felt that he needed to visit and know what the church’s teachings and beliefs were before he brought his wife and daughter there. He was totally at home at the first service he attended and he brought home the information on the church and the churches bible school. He was really excited about us attending church there but also about the bible school. I had asked him to find out if the church had any kind of bible study, not if they had a school! I didn’t want to go to school. I didn’t enjoy high school and did not want anything to do with going back to school. I took the information from his hands and as I did I heard the Lord (I don’t mean audibly but in that inner voice, that still small voice) tell me that I was going to go to that bible school. I knew if He told me to go that I was going and that he would provide the money for me to go - and it did within a month. Half of it was paid for by an anonymous donation, then we got an insurance refund that covered another quarter of it and then my husband was given some over time that covered the rest! All of it was paid for months before I was to start school! Now that it was paid for all I had to do was go. I have to tell you I had some big concerns. I didn’t usually have a lot of time for reading much less time to study and read. I was talking to God a lot about him sending me to bible school. I didn’t think I could do it well, so I didn’t want to do it at all! God assured me that if I put my faith in and trusted Him I would do extremely well. I decided God knows far more then I do so I went. God provided the finances, the time for reading and studying and, when the study time was limited, He also reminded me that I have the mind of Christ and He brings all things back to remembrance! I had more than enough hours required to serve every quarter, to attend every church service and I received distinguished honors for all 4 quarters in my first year! Praise God! He is Faithful in all things! We need to put our faith and trust in Him in all that we do. He never fails!!! Thank you Father! I give you all the praise and all the glory!!! -April DuBois
OFFERING MORE THAN MULTIPLIED - June 2005 Here is my testimony of what happened two weeks after Pastor David Acosta came to our church. When Pastor Acosta came and gave us the opportunity to give to our pastors I gave all that I had. I had come to church with $8.00 and a wallet of loose change. Well, I emptied my wallet into the envelope, knowing and believing that God was doing something awesome for our pastors, and would do something awesome in return for my obedience. So two weeks later as Pastor Dave gave a testimony of what a family had received after answering the opportunity given, I wondered what God had in store for me. What I received was nothing I ever would of expected! About 6 years ago I sold my car to my younger brother for a $1,000. I was not saved at the time. My brother had given me a partial payment of a few hundred dollars, and still had a balance of $600 or more. So because of his deposit, I let him take the car and agreed to payments for the remaining balance. Two weeks later my brother smashed the car into a tree, and disappeared for a few months. As upset as I was, I was grateful that he was not serious hurt, or dead. I put the debt behind me, and told him that his relationship with me was more important then money. My brother went through a wild side time in his life, but eventually came out of that, and has really turned his life around. He works in a bank now and has been recognize for his work. So one day he came to my restaurant to eat, and we ended up on the subject of that car I had sold him. His response was that “one day he was going to surprise me and pay me back” and I told him that I believed him because of how he turned his life around, and that I believed he was a man of integrity now. That was four years ago. Two years ago we again came upon that subject and he asked how much he still owed me, and I told him. Again he said “One day I’m going to surprise you and pay you back.” I told him that it would be an awesome surprise, but that I wasn't going to count on it. Well that Sunday that Pastor Dave gave that family's testimony, I proceeded after church to my restaurant to pick up lunch. I happened to find my brother already there. I proceeded to give his girlfriend a belated birthday gift, and she said how my brother also had a gift to give. I didn't really pay any attention, but as I was finished giving my gift, my brother handed me an envelope with a check for $600 in it! I was so amazed, and just stood there crying at what god had given to me. I know that that gift came because I chose to take the opportunity to love my pastors and give into their lives. I know my offering wasn't much but it was all that I had to give, and my heart gave even more. Thank you pastors for all that you do, for all that you teach us, and for all that you give into our lives. - Bobbi-Jo Koutroumanis
MOTHER & CHILDREN BLESSED - May 2005 I am my happiest when I am with my girls and when I go to church. God has helped me through the deaths of loved one and He was the one that helped me carry one of them to their final resting place. He was the one who gave me strength to speak at her funeral. I was able to testify to my family and plant the seed of God’s Word and that was great. God has also brought me to a great place of worship and fellowship. I have learned more things than I could have ever imagined. I have experienced some of the most wonderful spiritual experiences ever thanks to Pastors Dave and Diane. God is true love, He is kind and caring and patient. I thank God everyday for great pastors like Pastors David and Diane. I thank God that I have found something inside of me that makes me happy and so hungry for the Word of God. This past year seems to have had its ups an downs but one truth still remains, the truth that when you give yourself to the Lord things will happen that are great and wonderful and the revelation knowledge is overflowing and it makes me more hungry. I understand so much more than I ever have before and after hearing the sermon Pastor David Acosta gave it just confirmed what was in my heart to hook up with my man and woman of God, that that is the right thing to do because they can help you go to another level of faith. They have done that ever after this past Sunday when Pastor was talking about Revelations, I was so glad to hear him talk about how we are not worthless but are worth something great. I am also very thankful for all their prayers for they have helped me in some very tough times. I am so blessed to find a church and pastors that care so much about the people who attend. - C. Nodine
PARTNERING WITH PASTORS - April 2005 We just wanted to write down our testimony of the goodness of God, specifically since we started partnering with our pastors. As soon as we started, our prayers became more focused on them and more specific. Many times we see something nice and we often think about how much our pastors would like it. We haven’t been focusing on our personal finances, yet all our bills have been paid and our savings is |
