Ministry – Page 2 – Jeff & Angie

How To Get From Here to There

January 6, 2016October 21, 2016 A. Knight

How to get from here to there-

flying would be the way I’d go

but how exhausting, just so you know.

How to get from here to there-

friends can help lead the way

and just how, they ask, will we stay?

How to get from here to there-

help is needed, I’m sure you’ll agree

God will direct hearts, we shall soon see.

The task ahead has loomed –mostly after the initial day of “excitement” that came with the news of our approval as missionaries to Bolivia!

Can I just share my heart a minute? I haven’t done that in a while–and pardon the tears–for they just seem to happen when I mentally see those little faces-it’s hard to explain.

If you could experience the anguish of the wait–the internal examination of your life since you first became aware that you were “you”…like we have the past 11 months or so, since we first said “yes” to a God who sees all and knows every detail….

See, before the national office ever began asking their questions, the old enemy started his:

“who do you think you are? Are you kidding? At your age? What ability do you think you have? Seriously?” Over and over and over.

Of course, then came the paperwork. We won’t even go there–because there is possibly a “soon-to-be” called missionary reading this and I certainly don’t want to scare you away–trust me–if God has called you–there is NO other life choice for you. Paperwork-schmaperwork. Just do it.

If you could know the feelings that I get preparing for each trip- when the donations begin coming in for school supplies for those kids who will never have a chance at a brand new box of crayons without your help. Or those little girls who we took dresses to this year–they would have never had the opportunity to have their very own “first time” brand new dress–without your help (East Side Baptist Church-Vernon, FL)–and it honestly leaves me speechless. And to see the look in the mama’s eyes putting it on her little girl…oh friend, if you could know. You were here…but those dresses worked “there”.

If you could know what it feels like to hug the body of a little girl who has never ran or played like other girls, who gets made fun of because she had an old walker that had been sawed-off to suit her short build, but was still too wide. If you could see the tears fall hot and fast from her older sisters eyes when we walk in their yard with a brand new child-sized walker with wheels and a seat, and they realized someone saw a need and had compassion. They may not know the word–but they know the feeling. And some friends from “here” went “there” by helping buy that walker.

If you could walk into the tiniest one-room-home of a little 13 year old girl and see her little baby–and her own baby doll still in the same one room dwelling and know that her life will never return to playing with dolls because now she has one of her own…and she has to be responsible….

If you could board that airplane coming back home and feel that tug in your heart that you are not finished with what you are supposed to do….if you could dream the dreams that I have had for the past 3 years and see the haunting and desperate faces of those who have not been introduced to Christ yet, and wake with a sweat and urgency that the job must be done quickly–for we are running out of time–and you would feel that to stand before a congregation is a fearsome thing to do because your greatest fear is that just may not “get-it” like it has grabbed your soul for the past 4 years of your life.

But…if by chance…it did grab you, and you actually did experience all that I have for the past year to get prepared for what the “next phase” of your life is, you would be like me– taking apart every piece of your life to accommodate the journey ahead. Just when I think I’ve pared down enough, I feel a nudge from my heavenly Father…“more, Angie. Remove more.”

If you click on this link, it will take you to our page with AGWM. From there you can choose to journey and partner with us. You will not be required to leave your home, but you can invest in our journey and join us for the ride of a lifetime. I have created this little guide below, but really, you can choose whatever dollar amount will fit your budget. Once we get to the field, we will be there for two years. We hope that everyone who starts out this journey, will finish it well with us! You can even just give a one time donation–which it is all tax deductible and you will be mailed a receipt each time you contribute.

I remember the first 4 missionaries we began supporting. One of them I had never met. But I strongly felt God lead me to begin supporting them. We added more to our list over the course of the next couple of years and still support them all today. We can’t go to the countries they are in, some are in very sensitive countries, but by giving each month–we are joining them by helping them stay on the field.

Jeff and I have quite a way to go to get there–and we are hoping to get there soon. Would you like to join us? There is also a place to sign up to become prayer partners on our page and we hope that everyone will do that. We really need prayer support. I learned that in such a major way while we were there in October. And please pray as we are calling and emailing pastors–we need open doors, ten minute windows, 5 minute windows–whatever is available we will gratefully accept. God will do the rest.

We humbly thank you–with all that is within us–for the help you are able to give. If you have any fundraising ideas–please contact either one of us on Facebook or by email–we will be grateful for anything! 🙂

May God bless you for your sacrifice and love toward us and what He is doing in our lives.

http://www.tinyurl.com/sendjeffandangie/

Focus Forward Ministries, Ministry, Mission Trip, Missions

Praying Beyond Ourselves

April 28, 2015October 21, 2016 A. Knight

I see his face often. Not just because his sleeping form was captured on a trip in 2011….but because I believe I’m supposed to be praying for him.

There’s another dear lady praying too. Mrs. Pearline Snell.

She bought printed copy of my photograph when her church had a mission banquet and his picture was on her table.

And every morning she prayed for someone…
anyone …
to share with him about Jesus Christ. The One who came to seek and save all of us…who were lost.

Millions still are.

It’s up to us to do His seeking–He did commission us after all. Remember?

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

What are we actively doing about the lost? I hang my head with shame at the lost years–I did nothing.

World Missions was not on my brain. Neither was my closest neighbor.

It’s sad that here I am at almost 54–and now I urgently feel compelled to sell all I have and go.

It’s sad only because it took me so long to pray beyond my own self. But it’s good that I finally woke up.

When I first saw this man and took his picture–he was sleeping. My artist friend, +Betty Shoopman painted the most amazing gallery size portrait. It’s huge. The tag on it when I stood underneath it at Quayside Art Gallery, was $4000. I wasn’t taken aback–it was an absolutely AMAZING painting. It captured the attention of every single individual that came in the gallery. People would stand and stare…mesmerized by the image on canvas. “Who Do You Say That I Am?” was the title of her painting.

This man was a nameless, homeless soul…waiting to be found. That’s what captured me about his image leaning against the brick wall-sleeping in the sunshine.

Just like you and me. His status in society means nothing. The fact he has no home–nothing.

I had a prayer in 2014 when we returned to Bolivia. That I would be able to speak to this man–unknown to me….about One who gave His Life for him to be saved.
I wanted to tell him about his painting that hung in a gallery with a price tag of $4000, but that he was worth so much more.

So every day I looked. I searched the faces of people walking, selling, sitting and standing. I looked into the eyes of everyone I passed hoping to catch a glimpse of this man.

My day and opportunity came. I was more nervous than I have ever been before getting up to speak in a church! My butterflies had had babies and they were fluttering to get out. I think I even woke that morning feeling that “today” might be the day. I had no idea…

As my translator, her fiance and I returned to the village around lunch, they treated me to a filling meal at a local sandwich place–we have the same ones here in USA, but the meat there was a tad bit different 🙂

We ate and I had previously shared my story. I took my matted print copy of Betty’s original painting from my bag–I had carried it everyday in hopes of seeing him, and showed it to them. They were amazed, but couldn’t recall seeing him before.

After our meal, Daniel had half of his foot long sandwich left, an unopened bag of chips and a bottle of water. As we were driving back to the hotel I spotted him. I felt the excitement stir as never before. I mean this was seeing a prayer come to pass before it actually arrives at your doorstep…. All the “are you crazy”? thoughts came tumbling to my head–I pushed them aside with the thought–what if today is meant to be HIS DAY? What if God brought me all the way from Florida to Bolivia with this one job…to bring Christ to this man…

I felt like my feet weren’t even touching the ground. As we approached him, I smelled him. I knew I was about to have nostrils full of a very recognizable stench. The cardboard sign holding men on the corners at the intersections and at the Walmart parking lot don’t have this smell. I think the majority of them are out for what they can get from you. But this man….he was holding no sign. If anything, his expression was a sign. Do not enter.

I ignored it.

I squatted down with Daniel and started speaking and Daniel translated. I told him when I first saw him–how God had used him in my life and others. I told him that God had answered my prayer in letting me find him today–and that I had been praying for him to know the Jesus that died on the cross. I told him about the picture, the painting, my friend who prayed–and this was before I knew that that very morning, as with every single morning for more than a year, Mrs. Pearline Snell had prayed that prayer–for God to send someone to share Christ with him. Today was his day.

I felt from the fact that he wouldn’t look in my direction that I needed to let Daniel do all the talking. I just began talking to Daniel. Soon I stood up and asked Fabyata, “what what Daniel saying”?

She said he’s telling him about Jesus–the plan of salvation. I quickly asked Fabyata, does he even know who Jesus is?

The man uttered something to Daniel and I asked Fabyata what he said. “I know who Jesus is” was his reply. Without emotion.

Then I remembered, every single time I had seen him he had been around this church. How could he not know? Perhaps he heard? Perhaps the singing reached his ears… then I realized– I wasn’t sure what kind of songs they sang at the particular church that he was leaning against. Maybe none.

I felt pretty confident–they didn’t sing Jesus Loves Me…for this religion was more about Mary–than God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. My heart broke that I couldn’t communicate with him personally and tell him in “Angie words”…. but perhaps…this was best.

Daniel offered him his food. It took some doing–this man without a home–and without a cardboard sign–he was no beggar. He finally and reluctantly took the food offered but would not accept the 5 x 7 picture I offered with extended hand. He told Daniel something to tell me– “keep it to remember me by”.

As if.

As if I would ever forget my first encounter–the prayers prayed–or this day. No, friend. I would not forget you. I will talk about this day–and about you –to anyone who will listen.

And Betty gave me on loan, the painting to share this story when we are invited to go speak as we begin our own missionary journey.

On our way to church–after meeting Denny and Betty to accept the painting– we thought that the church we were attending that night for their special mission service might like to have it displayed–just to represent a place that several of their men had gone with us…the deacon I called was very glad to display it. After being seated, the pastor came and asked would I share a bit about the painting…wow. First opportunity–and I couldn’t possibly share it all. But I said yes… actually, Jeff said “yes she will” for me.

As I shared brief points of the story, I saw a woman out of the corner of my eye, wiping her eyes. After the service I was able to speak with her and her story you now know– it was an every-single-morning prayer she prayed. In faith. Believing that one day–God would send someone to him. And–God did. Me.

God answered Pearline’s prayer–and He answered mine…and used me.

I didn’t get the “response” I had hoped for–my hope was to lead him in the sinners prayer…but as I left, still feeling the flutter of the butterflies, I confessed my feelings to Fabyata. Her response to me was, “You did your job. You did what you were supposed to do”.

She was right. God has a plan already set in motion. Perhaps I will still play a part–but if not, I am okay with that. I know there are others who are now praying for his salvation. He has been brought to the attention of the artist when she painted him–and The Artist who created him, never lets him out of His sight.

Now, when I see him in my mind–I know what to do. Pray. He’s not forgotten–by God, nor us. He has become known to us as “Angie’s Bolivian Man”. When Jeff traveled to Bolivia in December of 2013 without me– he spied him on the side of the church one night coming back into the city. He called me–with excitement said, “I just saw your Bolivian Man”. My heart leapt –praying, hoping for the day I actually experienced in 2014.

From 2011 to 2015–God has been stirring our hearts for Bolivia, and not just because of this man. But because of the millions who don’t know. Not just Bolivia–but to the uttermost –furtherest place where people dwell. They are lost….they need to know.

Pray. Beyond yourself.

(The original painting is not pictured here–but is available to travel for weekend services)

© 2015 Angie Knight- The Knightly News. All rights reserved. Photography copyright protected. All rights reserved.

faith, Ministry, Mission Trip, Trust

Is it me–or is it Odd?

July 10, 2014October 21, 2016 A. Knight

Kolomoki Mounds Lake

Ok…there are some odd things happening…

Not bad odd…just odd odd. Yeah, that makes perfect sense.

It’s the “odd” sort of things that cause me to pause in my thinking, go back and dig in my prayer journal where I record prayers, thoughts, answers, Scriptures—because when I backtrack to what I’ve asked Him…I find that months later, there’s the answer in front of me—via Word from God through the Word…a scene that stares back at me from across the lake, through a message preached…or through a person– and most always most of those combined.

Side note: I had the BEST surprise this week. A monetary gift from Cindy M. from California to purchase BIBLES to carry to Bolivia! I was thrilled! God is faithful to His promises! If you want to get in on the action or find out what I’m talking about –go here: Bibles and School Supplies for Bolivia! Side note end.

This is from a past devotion. I’m not even sure of the date—but the “odd thing” was I happened on it by accident today… I wasn’t looking…I promise.

In the words of Oswald Chambers, “Dreaming about a thing in order to do it properly is right; but dreaming about it when we should be doing it is wrong.”

Can I just tell you that on the day I read this one…it hit me square in the eyes. For several reasons.

1) I had missed doing my devotions in my Oswald Chambers book for a few days. I read other things…—but when I picked my book back up, I flipped first to the “day at hand”.

“SMACK”. Right between the eyes.

2) Yes, I had been dreaming. But to put action behind my dreams scared me to death! But still…

My mother always told us, “Actions speak louder than words”. Yes. I know. A mother’s wisdom.

Oswald goes on further, “When we are getting into contact with God in order to find out what He wants, dreaming is right; but when we are inclined to spend our time in dreaming over what we have been told to do, it is a bad thing and God’s blessing is never on it….’neither sit nor stand but go.’ “

It is alright to wait before the Lord to get the instructions…or the road map—but there are times, when He bids us go–have faith in Him and go—and He directs us step by step.

Wanda’s favorite verse was Psalm 27:14. Wait on the Lord. As you are waiting “before Him”…meaning on your knees, in your prayer closet, or on your face, in your private devotions, He is doing the strengthening. He will be your strength. When you feel you have gone your absolute limit….give it up. To Him. And when He answers, however He may choose to answer, give Him all the praise.

There is preparation work ahead. It’s been on my mind—and just last week—those words were spoken over us and to us by an incredible couple—who are just as hungry to see God in action as we are. They have long since been acting on His instructions…

It’s really odd how things are coming together…For you too?

I firmly believe this:

^“The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.⁸Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. ⁹Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. ¹⁰As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:¹¹whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:7-11 ESV)

Devotion, faith, Ministry, Trials, Trust

Nothing Wasted

March 31, 2014October 21, 2016 A. Knight

“Where did you go to, if I may ask?’ said Thorin to Gandalf as they rode along.To look ahead,’ said he.And what brought you back in the nick of time?’Looking behind,’ said he.”– J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

Looking ahead is what we do. For the most part, we all like to know in advance—hoping we can do something about the things we know absolutely nothing about.

It’s like we “think” we need to help God. Are you kidding me? You know–you do the same. I’m not the only one.

I use the excuse of “needing to plan ahead”….ha. The real deal is the fact that we want to know so that we can make alternative plans or ADJUST His plan… That’s the TRUE REAL DEAL.

We want to know so we can “advise God and give Him input…. be careful. You and I will hear the same speech Job did. Were we there when He cast the line for the waves to stop? Were we present when the morning stars sang and all the sons of God shouted for joy–all for Him? (Read Job 38)

What I’ve been hearing over and over in my heart–through reading The Word and in messages, “trust-and-wait”. They go together like peas and carrots (Forrest would say).

In the story of our lives, God leaves nothing out. There are things we don’t know- yet- and things we will never know, this side of heaven. (That is where trust comes in…)

We participate in each word, line and punctuation of the details of our lives—as we live it. Only He knows the advance of our days. He’s been to our tomorrow and has a sovereign plan—and gives us the opportunity to put faith into action when the punctuation of our story turns to question marks.

Psalms 139:1-6 says:
O Lord, you have examined my heartand know everything about me.You know when I sit down or stand up.You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.You see me when I traveland when I rest at home.You know everything I do.You know what I am going to sayeven before I say it, Lord.You go before me and follow me.You place your hand of blessing on my head.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,too great for me to understand!

We are held in the promise of His Sovereignty. We will never—ever face anything that He hasn’t looked and either orchestrated or approved…FOR OUR GOOD.

What does that look like? Our good may not necessarily be desirous of us on the given day it actually happens…but, I can honestly say, after living 5 decades, it is for our good. And He is dependable.

I may believe Him for something for more than 10 years…but when the miracle arrives, the years and tears no longer matter. Like Gandalf, in the story of The Hobbit, He’s looking ahead. He sees your tomorrow. And you can stake the promise that when every need arises, He’s there in “the nick of time” for each of us.

There is no need for us to look behind….unless of course we are counting our blessings…

Then, by all means, we should look behind, count them and thank The Giver of Life.

Christmas, Grandchildren, Holidays, Life, Ministry, New Year

13 Blessings –2013

December 26, 2012October 21, 2016 A. Knight

The blessings that have been added to our heart and home still amaze me when I look into their eyes…

Only God could do all this.

Jeff and I are blessed with 2 daughters, their husbands and a sweet collection of children that make me smile…and sometimes cry.

The lessons we’ve all learned on this journey–the things we’ve heard from their lips, the insight into the heart of God…

Amazing blessings.

In thinking of 2013, I counted these blessings.
Sometimes I may have forgotten that these are blessings, as sometimes life gets a bit overwhelming…and sometimes people tend to not see a blessing ..instead they see a bother…

I recently looked back at the incredible joys of years past, and I saw such evidence of God—and yes, even in the trials and heartaches, the hand of God was there….keeping us through every situation.

Added to the family this year was “Bubbie” the lamb. We teasingly said we were giving him to April and David’s boys as a start on the Live Nativity for church next year…so you never know 😉

He’s a cute little lamb…and even though “Mary” didn’t come by the other morning, the little lamb did wander off … (hopefully not to follow anyone to school).

I’ve thought about those missing from our Christmas gatherings this year. My dear friend Connie Haile spent her first Christmas in heaven, and through her passing, as we went to the house to support Courtney, Mike, Sunny and Jeremy, I met her spiritual mom, Mildred, and met her sister Becky and mother for the second time…and friendships were formed with other “Connie” girls. Karen and Delores are other girls I’ve added to my “texting” buddy list. (HUGE BLESSINGS)

So even in her passing, she was doing the work of the LORD….bringing hearts with like faith together for strengthening! As I looked back at the effects of Connie’s life on others–and how she pointed lives to Christ…I realized–that is exactly what I want to do–

Point hearts home. To Jesus. To the cross.

Without being able to do that…what would be our purpose?

So, with much prayer in the next few days I am seeking God for the changes and things He desires for 2013…how can I better serve Him?…

As I gear up to be more diligent at blogging…and shouting out to the world about Jesus Christ–through the world-wide-web, I would like to ask you to pray with us.

We desire to seek Him more, serve Him fully and follow Him wherever He leads.

If you don’t mind me asking….

Is God calling you to a specific change for 2013? A specific place? A new challenge?

Care to share?

faith, Ministry, Mission Trip

Wondering and Wandering

August 26, 2012October 21, 2016 A. Knight

While I have been doing the “reading plan” with a large portion of our church, I have downloaded a few Bible Apps on my phone…searching for the one I loved the best.

In my reading and listening along, I accidentally clicked a bookmark on a particular verse–and every time I try to adjust it–or make a new bookmark, it continually goes back to that same one.

It is a unique verse.

Deuteronomy 2:3 ‘You have been wandering around in this hill country long enough; turn to the north.

Do you find yourself there? In a place of wandering?

Wondering what God is going to say next…

Wondering what He is going to DO next?…

Wondering if you will HEAR Him?…

While I’ve been getting ready for this mission trip to Bolivia–I’ve found myself at times seeming to be in a daze at what God is doing.

Sometimes we get a bit comfy in our surroundings…not willing for change.

Friend–can I just tell you with love in my heart–GET UP! It’s time to head NORTH. Life is changing ALL around you.
Every.Single.Message our pastor preaches–seems to be pointing to “something yet invisible”…but very PRESENT…

A change among us that is so reverent that it carries with it a holy hush to even call it to our minds…

Something powerful…and passion filled…

All Christ. Flesh gone.

Something expected…yet unexpected. Does that make sense?

The coming of CHANGE.

Change in our world begins with the change in our lives. One will NOT happen without the other. We are the fuel to feed the fire of passion of Christ….we MUST be consumed with HIM. We must burn until there is NOTHING left of US–and only our LOVE for HIM remains.

This calls for self-examination. This is something NO ONE else can help you with.

TIME alone with God is critical for this exam. Open and honest hearts–and a penetrable and moldable spirit….

I have a friend who stops by for coffee sometimes and we get into this conversation almost every time...the unexpectedness of God–it is with MUCH excitement that we talk and share visions and dreams–hopes and realities….

what is HE DOING in our lives?…

we both FEEL something coming up…yet really don’t know what…(exactly). We have both heard His voice in our lives.

And His voice brought CHANGE.

And our wandering turned to wondering…

It is a bit like little boy Samuel felt when God was calling his name in the night–yet Samuel didn’t know it was God–for he had never heard God speak before–but after that unforgettable night–God’s voice was recognizable–and Samuel sought God’s voice.

This picture was taken at the beginning of our week in Cambodia this year…and it was the beginning of a time where I felt I was wondering and wandering…not in a wilderness…but something else…

This was a “Monday”…after Vanessa and I had sang for the teens of the Dream Center during the Sunday service–

As these girls and I picked the stitches to widen the space for the curtain “pole” (not your average curtain rod), in broken English one of the girls asked me to sing–so, as I stood there with curtain in hand, picking stitches, I sang. They stopped and listened…and I felt the glory of the LORD all around in that room.

I heard the reverence of the winds of change blowing softly through the open-barred window.

Change is coming…

Wander and wonder no more.

Be pliable to the move of God…and SEE where HE LEADS YOU.…

_________________________________________________________________
As we are leaving for Bolivia this coming weekend, I humbly ask for your prayers. We have over 500 Bibles to give–kitchen towel sets for the women in the village, supplies for the school, and tracks to give on the streets of Santa Cruz.

Pray for the internet connectivity to remain strong and that I am able to post the blogs and keep all the family and friends of my fellow missionaries updated! You can sign up on the side bar to be immediately notified of all posts for this trip by”subscribing”. You can quietly unsubscribe at any time–

I pray you will be blessed as you get to travel and experience life along with us in Bolivia. As you read and pray–you become a participator in the mission! Praise God for YOU! We appreciate all the prayers!

(Bottom photo taken by Lois Solet of Louisiana–stay safe in the storm Lois!)

© Angie Knight- The Knightly News

Life, Ministry

If You Say Go…

August 13, 2012 A. Knight

If You say go, we will go
If You say wait, we will wait
If You say step out on the water
And they say it can’t be done
We’ll fix our eyes on You and we will come.

Your ways are higher than our ways
And the plans that You have laid
Are good and true
If You call us to the fire
You will not withdraw Your hand
We’ll gaze into the flames and look for You.

(By Rita Springer)

My niece sent me this song last year—before she left for an incredible journey…

He called…

She went.

A few weeks ago, I received a note in the mail…someone not understanding our burden for the lost… “why do you go so far?”

“Why not stay here?”…

I imagine Jesus leaning over the table of Matthew, the tax collector and saying, just for him, “Come, follow Me”…

Without hesitation, Matthew rises and follows. No questions. No straightening of quill or parchment. No gathering of list of debtors…just obedience. (Matthew 9:9)

Matthew never looked back at his table.

His position.

His income.

His purpose was no long “his”….but it was now “HIS”.

Are we in that place of full on obedience? No matter what it looks like to the world?

He will not call you to a work –a mission—or a purpose that is not already written in the record of time…and that HE will equip and enable you to do—bringing Him glory and honor as you put your full faith and trust in Him…

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 NKJV

Will you go?

We have embarked on a journey of such…of seeking more of God. Through His Word…through prayer…through the very self denial of certain things…each one is different…but for each one that chooses this Way…Joy is found.

Joy in knowing Him in a way that is beyond words….it must be experienced.

Operation 180º may not be understood by all…but if you are willing for some changes in your life…by turning your focus fully on Christ—your life will turn completely away from the world…and target straight for the “Narrow Gate”…and take you all the way Home.

(Bro. Shane Martin preached a great message Sunday, I would like to encourage you to click on the website and listen in—video archive on the sidebar.)

Are you ready? Willing? Focused?

Let’s go. Listen to this song: If You Say Go, by Rita Springer

Devotion, faith, Life, Ministry

When God Calls Your Name

August 7, 2012October 21, 2016 A. Knight

Walking with my sister, mother, aunt and cousins, along a dirt road last year, I was about to take a step over what appeared to be a letter.

I stopped. Bent over and low and behold, it was an “A”. Not placed by human hands…but by the Wind.

How it happened I didn’t have a clue, but I knew it was significant –at least for me.

Sometimes we look for a “word” from a friend…to encourage us…or uplift us. But that’s all it can do, and sometimes that’s enough…for the time.

But there is a WORD that you and I can have on a daily basis…straight from the heart of God.

I am very excited about what our church has begun this past Sunday.

Operation 180º. It’s a call to prayer, Bible reading, and fasting for 90 days.

Did you just gulp? 90 days will take us to the first week of November–a time when we are thinking, “Thanksgiving”…family gatherings–hearts and lives blessed. For many though, it doesn’t mean anything out of the ordinary. It means just another day. Just another 90 days.

God has called our name-–He is intent on giving us a message–letting us KNOW that He is present–and wants–desires for us to “see Him” and experience HIM as never before.

Life as usual won’t get us there. It takes determined steps.

I know I’ve talked a lot about this…but I have found that I have to dig myself in mentally, spiritually and even physically to make time with HIM all it should be.

This morning it was raining–I woke at 3:13.
Odd time…the odder thing was this: I began thinking of all the times I had heard God speak to me.

Over the past 4 years, I heard from Him… (not from any individual), 7 times. Actually, as I was on my way to work, I thought of the 8th. Oh, and sitting here right now, He just reminded me of the 9th. Significant words. Words from the Word.

When reading the Bible, we read down the page (hopefully not passively, but fully involved), and a passage jumps out at us..perhaps we heard it recently, maybe even said something similar in days or weeks prior. But the significance is when we FEEL Him say, “this Word is for You…for your –today–“.
Most times, tears fill my eyes as I realize His love afresh for me.

The 7 to 9 times of His voice I’m speaking of this morning was His voice–to me. In my ear…to my heart…and no one else heard anything. It wasn’t audible…but it was heart focused and heart felt. So much so that the very words permeated my soul and changed the way I looked at that day!

7 to 9 times I heard Him call my name with a specific message for me. Not to be ever forgotten (as was recently discussed with a mentor). I can still feel the heat…I can still smell the smells around me–I can even still look around and see what I saw then. It made an impact. (I just thought of another!)

In every single instance–my mind and heart was fully focused, fully engaged in following HIM. Not my agenda. I want that every day!

It is a fight. The enemy does NOT want you to have that…why, if you have that, you JUST might start to BELIEVE HIM FOR IMPOSSIBLE THINGS!

I’m laughing right now, because that is what I am doing. Believing HIM for impossible things.

If you DARE…step out on the water. Believe for the IMPOSSIBLE….REACH higher than you’ve ever dared before. It starts with determination.

When we first began discussing this plan of action, I remembered the compass on my phone. If you have a compass on your phone, get it out.

I’ll wait. Click the icon. Bring up the compass.

Notice what happens if you fidget in your seat.

Fidgets brings movement.

Steps in either direction brings movement.

Changes.

The needle will go wild if you spin in your chair!

Did you know (perhaps at this point you do), every move you make alters your course?…Every. Single. Move.

One glance to the left, your whole body makes the adjustment…the needle moves…maybe just a bit, but enough to alter it….keep glancing to the left…or to the right…and the needle will move so much that you might not remember the direction you were headed in the first place….

Friend, we better know.

We better keep our eyes open and straight ahead to the straight and narrow.

It is hard? You betcha! (GrandBuddy lingo)

But the Bible says, few will enter into the straight and narrow path…because they can’t find it…their focus is so off course, they lost sight.

Hey, we are so close to the end, you must KNOW the enemy will try EVERY tactic known–every weakness you have, he will pull out to tempt you with…stay focused. Stay alert.

Watch your steps…better yet, watch the One you are to be following.

I have to tell you this before you go: yesterday while driving home from work, I passed a truck and smiled when I read the sign (yes, I have this thing for trucks and billboards). It was a “moving truck”…(pay attention), the side of the truck read: “Dedication at every turn”….

It will take dedication; determination; eyes wide open and focused. Prayer–fasting–not just food–THINGS that have interrupted your life and stolen time from God. He won’t stand for it…He’s not going to “take it from you”…YOU have to decide to lay it down.

Operation 180º. 90 days of purposed steps in His direction will change the course of your life.

Go for it!

(2 Chronicles 7:14-16) Read it today.

Ministry, Thank you, Weekend Reflections

Band Of Brothers On A Mission

November 5, 2011 A. Knight

I have said several times—either here online—or when speaking –

“You are one of two things—IF you are a believer in Christ….”

According to Matthew 28:19-20, “You are either a Missionary—or a Mission Project.”

I now know what it feels like to be both. Being a missionary is incredible. To share the love and mission of our Lord Jesus Christ with others is a feeling like no other! Jesus said to the eleven disciples standing with Him, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” He gave them their marching orders.

Question for you: If you are going to leave your job—and it is your job to train your replacement—don’t you want them to know everything in order to succeed at the work ahead? And if they leave after you—won’t they do the same? And the next person the same?

That’s what Jesus did. HE gave the instructions for EACH OF US…to be handed down through time until HE RETURNS. So—what are you doing?

Let me tell you how we became a mission project.

We moved to a cute little house on the camp grounds…and it rained on the day we were moving in…which was really a blessing…because we discovered the roof leaked. And a few days later it rained again. And it leaked again.

HOWEVER, there is a “Band of Brothers” that Jeff has been BLESSED to be a part of ever since God laid it on the heart of Guy Tatum to begin a “men’s prayer group” at church. (Marianna First AG).

The prayer group is open to any man—of any age who wants to band together with other men and pray and grow in God. I have witnessed the changes in the men of this prayer group as they “truly” band together and form a team of awesome encouragers in their faith and love for the LORD!

They showed up at our house this morning before the sun had set the trees on fire with it’s brilliance! It was a gorgeous day—windy for being on a roof, but these guys didn’t mind –and there was not one complaint about the chill in the air! (Not that I heard anyway!)

Click on the pictures and see all that the LORD did through the giving hearts and working hands of these awesome guys!

Band Of Brothers

VIEW SLIDE SHOW DOWNLOAD ALL

Thank you Guy for following the call of God to lead this “Band of Brothers” into a higher place in Christ—and into the “Mission Field” of life!

Not a hammer was picked up until they gathered in prayer.

At break time—I stepped outside to snap a few pictures of them and heard them discussing their morning’s Bible reading. Guy challenges them to each read the Bible through –and he supplied them all with the NLT Version of the “Bible in a Year”.

We are not the first mission project these guys have taken on—and I’m sure we won’t be the last!

The West Florida District is extremely grateful for their hearts of love and labor today as they roofed not only our house, but a storage building as well!

Guys—, we could never thank you enough! What a blessing you have been to us and the District! We love you all!

Conference, Life, Ministry

Devotions/Breakfast/Meetings

March 31, 2011 A. Knight

“It is no longer I that liveth, but Christ that liveth in me…

It is no longer I that liveth, but Christ that liveth in me.”

Does Christ live in you? He should be evident in our lives. Every day.

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding great joy, . . . “ Jude 24 NKJV

This morning, as we gathered to hear Otis share his heart, his ministry struggles, his life struggles, I found that through his walk and story, I found myself there through various times of my life.

What kept me? Jesus living in me.

What keeps you? If you have given Jesus the complete rule and reign of your life—if He holds the only deed to your heart—He keeps you. In the roughest of times. And in those most desperate of times, He will find a way to reach you….no matter how far you’ve wandered.

Thanks Otis, for a great devotion. (There was MUCH more to it than this, but I found it hard to type and really listen.)

Official camp business, including election of the new director for the Assemblies of God camp network, Sue Nigh, took place Wednesday night.

Congratulations Sue!

We finish Thursday morning up with a great breakfast, giveaways and round table discussions on what has “worked” best in “your camp”.

By the way, for all of you who read the devotional blog story from last year on Laced With Grace, you might remember with a chuckle what happened at the camp director’s meeting…our “first” time here. Well, Jeff, being his precious self, corrected what might have been perceived as a poor first impression from last year. And we all laughed…as Jeff shared what we experienced at our district camp this year through a great group of people from Arkansas this year.

For my regular readers, Jeff and I are blessed in so many ways in our daily walk with the mentors and contacts God has given us, and through your faithful prayers. Thank you for staying with us these past several days as we’ve traveled along—experiencing God—in so many ways. And YES. I did pray for the snow that is laying on the ground. And yes, I believe God loves me just that much to send it. It’s melting now, but it was a spectacular sight yesterday as we sat in meetings all day and watched it flutter to the ground. So graceful, just as God’s love pours out on each one of us.

As we each leave this place today, going to our respective camps, with a fresh vision in our hearts, we pray for one another—that God will bless and grow each camp to bless and grow lives—and those who will attend each camp in the coming months.

We need to remember, what we do for Christ today—will change lives forever.

Thanks Kevin, Kevin, Otis, Sue and Randy for making this all possible! This has been a truly wonderful experience!

Now, as a voice from the south, “Y’all drive careful going home”.

Ohio—I sure enjoyed your snow!