FORWARD by Orvil (Ty) Tice In my life I have carried many Titles: Sailor, Veteran, Computer Geek, Real Estate Agent, Evangelist, Pastor, Bishop, and many more. However, there is only title that is important to me and that is: REDEEMED CHILD OF GOD BY THE SHED BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST, MY SAVIOR AND LORD. This book came out of a one year weekly devotional written and compiled by Elizabeth (Betsy) Tice. Now we offer it to you in its completed form. We do not care what part of the body of Christ you are, or what denominational leaning you may have. A toenail that protects the toe has no understanding what the function of the elbow has in supporting and bending the arm. Yet they both are controlled by the mind. Our encouragement is to press through those parts you may not understand, always being open to the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 3:20-21 KJV20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Bible Reading:
Acts 2 with Emphasis on verses 12 -21 This passage gives an explanation by Peter of what is happening on the Day of Pentecost. He refers to Joel 2:28 -30. This move of God will be characterized by sons and daughters prophesying. His Spirit being poured out on all flesh. There will be dreams, visions, and dramatic signs in nature. Also, salvation will be available to all who call upon the Lord.
Today’s Story: Our Eyewitness Introduction to the works of the Holy Spirit started with a TV program in the 1970's called “Abundant Living.” It originated from a church called Faith Temple in San Jose, and its pastor was a dynamo who my husband described as a “crazy Pentecostal who was utterly sincere.” Doesn’t that sound a little bit like the Acts 2 passage where Peter had to explain that the people weren't drunk? We loved Jesus; however, we were not schooled in the ways of the Holy Spirit. It reminds me of the people in Acts 19 who said, “...we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.” We were about to learn that there was still a Holy Spirit alive and well in the world today. Fast forward about eight years. Our jobs took us to, of all places, San Jose, California, where the home church of the “crazy Pentecostal” was. While recovering from a minor surgery, who should appear on the screen but Pastor Kenny Foreman inviting people to church with a “Bible in your hand and a friend at your side.” Coincidence? I think not. As if that weren't enough, my husband, Ty, took a shortcut one day and encountered a sign for the “Future Home of the Cathedral of Faith.” WOW! We decided perhaps we should visit Faith Temple, the current church. When I told my friend at work about our impending visit, her response was, “That's my church, and Kenny Foreman is very blessed. He's been fasting and praying for ten days for miracles.” That sounded somewhat out there to us, but we were already committed to go, so we stuck with our plan.
Verse(s) to Ponder: Jeremiah 33:3
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, I am calling unto You, and I believe Your promise.
CHAPTER2: “Called Out” - Hiding Behind the Man with the Afro
Bible Reading: II Samuel 12:1 – 24 In this passage, Nathan the Prophet confronted David with the sin of sleeping with Bathsheba, arranging to have her husband effectively placed in a position to be killed, and afterwards taking her to be his wife. The Lord gave Nathan a Word of Knowledge about the situation and a parable with which to confront David. David repented, although he had to reap some consequences for his sin.
Today’s Story: Returning to our modem-day introduction to the Holy Spirit, we recall that we had decided to visit Faith Temple in San Jose, California. We arrived to find a crowd waiting to attend the service. Miracles were happening, and the people were flocking to see them, just as in the days when Jesus walked the earth. Kenny Foreman was preaching on the Kingdom of God. Ty had conveniently hidden behind a man with a big Afro, sitting about three-quarters of the way back in a sanctuary that held about 700 people. As Pastor Foreman was preaching, he walked across the platform, cranked his head so that he could see my husband, and said, “And you, sir, had better get right with God and establish the Kingdom of God in your home.” He then continued preaching as though nothing had happened, but something had happened. After the service, Ty's response was, “We'd better begin tithing.” That was his initial answer, a good, religious one to be sure, but far from the commitment God wanted from him. Sunday Night was a night of miracles, as was often the case. One of the ushers came forward and said, “I've been a hypocrite. I've been playing church for fifteen years. Tonight, I want to stop playing and be real.” My husband said, “Me, too,” and that was the beginning of his journey. Mine would come a little later.
Verse (s) to Ponder: The following are two verses to ponder: I John 1:8 - 9
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, I am confessing my sins to You, receiving Your forgiveness, and walking into fellowship with You in the light.
Chapter 3: The Mexicans Who Spoke Polish
Bible Reading: I Corinthians 14:27 - 28 These two verses explain the manifestation gift of tongues and interpretation in the church, and how it should be exercised.
Today’s Story: On Week 2 we recalled the story of the rededication of Ty's life to the Lord after being introduced to the working of the Holy Spirit through the gift of the Word of Knowledge. The next Sunday, we returned to church, and a hush came upon the congregation. The following is Pastor Ty’s account of the events: A woman with a Mexican accent began to speak Polish in a loud voice. I knew this because I am of Polish descent. Whenever the family was talking about adult subjects that they didn't want us kids to know about, they would switch to Polish. So, through the years, even though they insisted that we speak only English, I did pick up a few words of Polish here and there. Here in a church of 25% Anglo-Saxon, 25% African American, 25% Mexican, and 25% Asian, I was probably the only person of Polish descent. Yet, here I knew that this was Polish being spoken. As the lady finished, another lady at the other end of the church with that same Mexican accent began to interpret the message that had just been given in Polish. I knew the interpretation was correct because of the few words that I recognized. Why is this important? It is vital because the Lord was showing this son of a preacher that, contrary to what I had been taught, the gifts of the Holy Spirit are as relevant and necessary today as they were at the start of the church.
Verse (s) to Ponder: The following is a verse to ponder: Hebrews 13:8.
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law.” Psalm 119:18
Chapter 4: The African Who Spoke English
Bible Reading: Acts 10:44 - 48 In the Biblical account, the Holy Spirit fell on the people even while Peter was preaching. Then they “spoke in tongues and prophesied.” It says that the bystanders, who were Jews, “heard them speak with tongues,” and magnify God. They acknowledged that the Gentiles had received the Holy Ghost in the same manner that “they of the circumcision” had. Everyone allowed that the Gentiles could be baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.
Today’s Story: In Chapter 3, we recalled the story of the Mexicans who spoke Polish. Many years later, at the third church of which we were the pastors, we were blessed to be visited by some dear, elderly, retired missionaries by the name of Durr. In conversations with Pastor Ty, they shared some of their experiences on the mission field in Africa. In the light of what we had witnessed when the Mexicans spoke Polish, it seemed good to share it now. One night, they were holding a meeting where people were praying to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. One African gentleman was praying in earnest in his native tongue. At a point in his prayer, he began to praise Jesus in English, saying words to the effect of, “I love you, Jesus.” Of course, everyone was thrilled, as the man did not know English, at all, and they glorified God.
Verse (s) to Ponder: In the meantime, here are two verses to ponder: Acts 11:17 - 18
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord Jesus, let it be said of us, as it was of them, (Acts 11:21)
Chapter 5: Not His Day to Die
Bible Reading: John 11:1 - 46 In this account of the miraculous workings in the life of Jesus, we read about Lazarus being raised from the dead by Jesus. Today, we will recount a Word of Knowledge, where the Holy Spirit revealed a hidden truth to Pastor Kenny Foreman and thereby prevented a death.
Today’s Story: As usual, the sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit was prominent in the church. We had worshiped the Lord through the leading of anointed musicians. Suddenly, the pastor stopped the service and said, “There’s someone here who has tried to kill himself tonight.” A young man came forward and acknowledged that indeed he had, by drinking eight bottles of ant poison. Pastor Kenny prayed over him and led the young man to the Lord. This was obviously not his day to die. As an aside, it is interesting to note that the only place left to sit in the church had been next to his former employer. Later, they would collaborate on a beautiful wooden carving of the Last Supper that was given a place of honor and prominence in the new church, The Cathedral of Faith.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Here are two verses to ponder: John 11:35 and Luke 19:41.
Prayer for Today: It was Pastor Foreman’s desire to see the hurts and hurting people that others were not seeing. Dear Lord, open our eyes to see the hurting and minister Your love to them, as well.
Chapter 6: His Scales Fell Off
Bible Reading: Acts 9:1 - 20 In this account of the miraculous workings of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the early believers in the Book of Acts, we read about the conversion of Paul on the Road to Damascus and the subsequent, miraculous recovery of his eyesight after hands were laid on him by Ananias. Today, we will recount a miracle of healing that bears a striking resemblance to this story.
Today’s Story: We had finally settled into our new building, The Cathedral of Faith. We were blessed, in that God was still granting us miracles in response to the high level of faith that was in evidence. A man came forward to be prayed for as he needed a healing of his eyes. He was practically blind because he suffered from cataracts. As Pastor Kenny prayed, my husband literally saw the scales fall from the man’s eyes, and his vision became clear. As was customary when a healing had occurred, the gentleman was instructed to “do something that you couldn’t do before,” in this case see clearly from a distance and also to see close up and read. The man had no problem performing the tasks, and, once again, the Lord had demonstrated His healing power. People receiving a healing was a prominent feature of the ministry of Jesus, and also in the early church. Not only did the Lord perform miracles through the Apostles, but he also used Ananias in the recovery of Paul’s sight.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Here are two verses to ponder: Mark 16:19 – 20.
Prayer for Today: Let us pray, as did the early Christians in Acts 4:29 – 30. And now, Lord, behold their threatening: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus
Chapter 7: The Woman who Walked Around the Church
Bible Reading: Acts 3:1 - 16 In this account of the miraculous workings in the life the early believers in the Book of Acts, we read about the healing of the lame man who was begging at the gate of the temple called Beautiful. By the end of the story, he had gone into the temple and was “walking, and leaping, and praising God.” There was a dramatic healing that we were blessed to observe. It happened before we left Faith Temple.
Today’s Story: A lady was seated in a wheelchair near the front of the sanctuary. A healing service was taking place, and faith was high in the pulpit and in the congregation, as well. Pastor Foreman prayed for all of the others who were at the altar. Finally, awkwardly, only the lady in the wheelchair was left. Angie, our somewhat quiet friend and neighbor in the sanctuary took the initiative and displayed the faith to wheel the lady right in front. As faith rose up in the “man of God,” He told the woman to stand up and walk. She remonstrated that she couldn't walk. He replied forcefully, “I didn’t ask you if you could walk. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” At that, she stood up, left her wheelchair, and took hold of his hands. They proceeded to walk around the whole perimeter of the sanctuary. At the end, she requested to be able to sit down, as she was very tired. He acknowledged the fact that, of course, she was tired as she had not walked in eighteen years. Her legs were very tiny almost like toothpicks. The place exploded with excitement. This was one of the most dramatic instances of healing that any of us had ever seen.
Verse (s) to Ponder: In the meantime, here are two verses to ponder. John 5:8-9,
Prayer for Today: Let us pray, as the apostles did, “...Lord, Increase our faith.” Luke17:5
Chapter 8: Ty’s Introduction to the Glory of God
Bible Reading: John 18:1 - 6 In the Bible passage, Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane with His disciples. Judas Iscariot was with a band of men and officers that the chief priests and Pharisees had furnished him to take Jesus into custody. Verse 6 reads this way, “As soon then as He had said unto them, 'I am He, they went backward, and fell to the ground.’” Ty experienced a similar phenomenon in the story that we will recount today.
Today’s Story: We had enjoyed a beautiful time of worship and were in the presence of the King at Faith Temple. Just then, a Word of Knowledge came forth. A Word of Knowledge is information that comes forth from the Lord that the person uttering it has no human way of knowing. An example from the Bible occurs when Jesus told Nathanael that He had seen him under the fig tree prior to seeing him in person. (Refer to John 1:46-50). Pastor Foreman said, “There's a man here. Your back has been killing you all week. God wants to touch you tonight.” Ty was twisting around to see who it was. Suddenly, he realized that he was no longer in pain. He almost leaped over a couple of people as he ran up to where Pastor Foreman was waiting to meet him. As Ty acknowledged that his back was no longer in pain, Pastor Foreman said to him, “You haven't seen anything yet. Raise your hands, and Ty did. Pastor laid his hand on Ty, who immediately fell over, much like the soldiers in the Garden. Ty later acknowledged that at that time he also saw a bright light. What a privilege it is to encounter the glory and presence of God!
Verse (s) to Ponder: Here is a verse to ponder: John 11:40. Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, I believe and ask like Moses, “Show me Your glory.” (Exodus 33:18)
Chapter 9: Betsy's Deliverance From Fear
On a Wednesday night in December of 1980, Pastor Foreman was preaching on the Word of Knowledge. He reached out towards where I was sitting three rows back and said, “Come here, my sister, I would like to pray for you, and don't be afraid.” I went forward, and he said, “You have a hunger for God.” (At this point I was thinking that he was going to say something about my not being saved.) He continued however, “Fear and feelings of inferiority have dominated your life, and, tonight, God is going to heal you of that fear.” He went on to say that I had sought my whole life for His assurance of my salvation, and the Lord wanted me to know this was the night of my assurance. Pastor Kenny prayed over me in tongues. I felt a light, yet firm, pressure, as though someone was gently pushing me with two or three fingers, and I fell backwards to the floor under the power of the Holy Spirit. As the ushers assisted me, it felt like I was gently floating. The next day, I told Ty I was pretty sure that the preacher had pushed on my forehead, and that was why I fell over. He assured me that it had to be the touch of the Holy Spirit because Pastor Foreman had never even touched me. As a result of my encounter with the Holy Spirit, I was assured of my salvation, delivered of my fears, and thrust into an exciting life with Jesus. Prior to that night, I was afraid to read the Bible. I saw condemnation to hell and/or prohibitions of any fun on every page. Philippians and Psalms were about all that I could handle. A11 of a sudden, I loved to read the Bible, and it began speaking to my heart, words of love and assurance. Then I began to hear from Him and write songs. The first song I ever wrote was called, “The God of Creation.”
The God of Creation (Psalm 34 and John 6:37)
By Elizabeth C. Tice
VERSE 1 Key of F
For years I felt like an orphan Estranged from the family of God. When people would say, “The Father loves you,” I could only in suffering nod.
Then one day I called out to Jesus, “Oh, Father, please hear my cry!” And soon He brought an answer to me. On His Spirit and Word I rely.
(CHORUS) Key of F
The God of Creation is waiting. He wants to pour out His love. “Him that cometh to Me, I will not cast out,” Says my Jesus, Who reigneth above.
VERSE 2: Key of F “I sought the Lord,” said the Psalmist. “He delivered me from all my fears.” “I AM the Lord, and I change not,” Has been true for thousands of years.
(CHORUS) Key of F, then Transition to Eb
VERSE 3: Key of Eb “I have already shown you I love you. I died to set you free. But if, in your sorrow, My love you can't feel,” In My Comfort, My love you will see.”
(CHORUS) Key of Eb
Bible Reading: Matthew 10:1 - 8 In this passage, verse 1 reads as follows: “And when He had called unto Him, His twelve disciples, He gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.” Later in the passage, He even instructed them to heal lepers and raise the dead. (verse 8)
Today’s Story: We had been observing miracles and healings under the ministry of another. Our faith had risen as a result of seeing and hearing Words of Faith. Ty was ready to participate. Some friends from Faith Temple were visiting the house. The gentleman said that he was having trouble smelling because of a cold. Ty anointed him with the only oil we had available for the purpose on that occasion. Of course, he prayed the “prayer of faith,” as well. Suddenly, our friend said that something smelled like coconuts. It was the oil that had been used along with the prayer. We all rejoiced that God had honored our prayers. It wasn't exactly raising the dead, but it was a start. (Baby steps) It wasn't the last miracle or healing we would see in our ministry.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Here are three verses to ponder: Matthew 4:18 -20
Prayer for Today: Thank you, Jesus, for this honoring of our faith. Let us always respond in “faith which worketh by love” to the opportunities that You present to us.
Chapter 11: Visited by a Stranger
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:31-46 Today, our Bible reading focuses on the need to be kind to those in difficulty. If you minister to those in need, you will be blessed. If you do not, you may incur the most severe judgment and punishment. It is as if you are either helping or ignoring Jesus.
Today’s Story: Today's story takes place at a restaurant after another exciting service at Cathedral of Faith. We were celebrating by seeking to enjoy an after-church snack. A man stopped by, and we asked him to join us. We all agreed that the service had been wonderful. Ty felt led to offer to pay for the man's snack. He declined and said that we could, however, pay for his coffee. We continued to fellowship. The young man was totally absorbed in talking about the blood of Jesus. It seemed to be his focus and preoccupation. We finished our fellowship and entered the parking lot together. We went on to our car while continuing our conversation with him and turned around to discover that the man had vanished. There was no way he could have disappeared that quickly as the lot was virtually empty. We will be forever grateful for that (angelic) visitation and happy that we had been able to share and provide even a cup of coffee to someone we thought was a stranger.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Here is a verse to ponder: Hebrews 13:2
Prayer for Today: Thank you, Jesus, for this opportunity. Let us always respond in love to the opportunities that You present to us.
Chapter 12: The Call to Teach
Bible Reading: II Timothy 1:6 - 2:2 In today's Bible reading, Paul emphasizes that Timothy was to “stir up the gift of the Holy Spirit that had been imparted to him by the laying on of hands.” The Holy Spirit is one of “power, love, and a sound mind,” not one of “fear,” which tries to intimidate the servants of God. There are more instructions in the passage. The final encouragement was to give sound doctrine to “faithful men,” who could then pass it on to others.
Today’s Story: After nearly a year of seeing the Book of Acts in a modem-day recreation, we were eager to participate in the work of God. Pastor Foreman never wanted people to be “spectators,” so this was consistent with what we were being taught. What exactly our assignment from the Lord was to be, we were still seeking to discover. One night, we were reading and meditating on the Word when the Lord revealed to us separately what our ministry would entail. I was concerned about being a copycat, so I asked to speak first. Ty agreed, since he was of a more confident nature. Referring to the II Timothy passage, I stated, “Our job is to 'teach teachers to teach.”’ Ty confirmed that the Lord had revealed the same thing to him from a passage in the Old Testament. Years of service for the Lord have confirmed this calling, from the people in the first churches of which we were the pastors, to the establishment of a ministerial association and Bible College. What a faithful and mighty God we serve! I would like to think that the ministry will even yet be perpetuated through writing and counseling those whom the Lord places in our path.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Here are two verses to ponder: Jeremiah 23:28-9.
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, give us “faithful men” to whom we can “commit” what You've shown us and let them “teach others also.”
Chapter 13: Thou Shalt Decree a Thing (Job)
Bible Reading: Job 22:21-30 Today’s Bible reading focuses on the blessings of those who know, and walk close to, God. Ironically, it was being delivered by Eliphaz, one of Job’s judgmental comforters. Nonetheless, it is Scripture, and we can learn from it.
Today’s Story: We were nearing the end of the year and attending a New Year's Eve service at Faith Temple, the last New Year's Eve service that would be held before we moved to the much larger Cathedral of Faith in the spring. Instead of New Year's resolutions we were given “Decree Cards.” The instructions were to write on them our wishes/decrees for the next year. We both wrote our cards, and the desire was the same. Instead of three things, we both wanted to be serving God and flowing in all the gifts of the Holy Spirit. What my husband secretly hoped for was to be in full-time ministry by the end of the next year. Within six months, we had been called to pastor our first church. Hallelujah, what a faithful God we serve! “THOU SHALT DECREE A THING!”
Verse (s) to Ponder: Proverbs 4:18.
Prayer for Today: May my prayers reach you, Lord. May my heart touch Your heart. May my life honor You, That You might receive glory. (From the song That You Might Receive Glory given by the Holy Spirit to Elizabeth C. Tice)
Chapter 14: “Go in Peace, my Sister.”
Bible Reading: Mark 2:1-12 Today, our Bible reading focuses on the man with the palsy who was healed by Jesus. The crowd was so great that the men had to cut a hole in the roof to place him in front of Jesus.
Today’s Story: Our story today bears a similarity to the Bible account in that extra means had to be taken to get the person in need of prayer in front of the man of God. In this case, we were the ones in need. Ty and I had been blessed to be operating in “demonstration of the Spirit and power.” This time, however, Betsy was facing a breast biopsy for a lump that had been discovered, and, as Ty said, “Even though we were operating in Kingdom Faith, this time the need was so personal that 'He couldn't see the forest for the trees.”’ Our first pastorate was about three and a half hours from Faith Temple, so we made the drive to San Jose. After the service, Pastor Foreman was rushing to meet a visiting minister. Ty practically pushed me in front of him for prayer, explaining the situation. His action reminds us of cutting a hole in the roof in Today's Bible reading. Pastor prayed, and the Lord honored us all with a Word, which Kenny uttered, “Go in peace, my sister. It's benign.” That settled it for us, and we went on our way rejoicing. The next week, Pastor Kenny reminded everyone that there would always be time for prayer in the House of God.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Matthew 21:13
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for being my Healer. “Freely I have received. Freely I will give.” .
Chapter 15: The Man who had to Forgive
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:1-15 Today, our Bible reading focuses on the Lord’s instructions for how His disciples are to pray. As you read the passage, pay special attention to verses 12-15. These verses stress the concept that forgiveness from God for us requires that we extend forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Today’s Story: Ty and I had been blessed to be operating in “demonstration of the Spirit and power.” Today’s story is an example of a healing that the Lord graciously granted in response to believing prayer. The gifts of supernatural faith and the Word of Knowledge were also brought into play. Here is Pastor Ty’s account of this healing: A young man came forward to the altar for prayer. He was visiting his friends from Fort Bragg, California. He told me that he had cancer and needed healing. I went to lay hands on him, and out of my mouth came, “I will pray for your healing, but God wants you to forgive your parents first.” He responded, in tears, that he would. After the service, he asked his friends how much they had told me about him. They assured him that they hadn’t even mentioned his name to me. Later, I heard that he went to the doctor, and no cancer was found. How great is our God!
Verses to Ponder: James 5:14 – 16.
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, help me to forgive others, so that I can be forgiven and be healed. I submit myself to being obedient to you in all things.
Chapter 16: Call Nothing Stupid
Bible Reading: John 9:1-7. Today’s Bible reading focuses on an unusual method that Jesus used to heal a blind man. He spit on the ground, making clay of the dirt, and anointed the man’s eyes with the mixture. The act of faith that he required of the man was that the man wash his eyes in the pool of Siloam. Of course, he followed the instructions of Jesus and was able to see.
Today’s Story: Pastor Ty, in our story today, was asked to do an unusual thing by the Holy Spirit. The following is Pastor Ty’s account of the event: The husband of a dear sister in the church came up in the healing line and complained of extreme constipation that had plagued him for days. I heard in my spirit, the Lord say, “Smack him in the stomach.” I told the brother what the Holy Spirit had requested and asked the man’s permission.
The man said, “Go ahead,” so I hauled off and smacked him in the stomach. His eyes grew wide, and he immediately excused himself and ran for the bathroom. After the service, he said that he should have come for prayer days earlier. I have never had the occasion for this to happen again. When God does something unique in the Spirit, He may repeat it many times or never again. Consider, if you will, the things in the Bible that occurred just once, and the things that seemed to repeat themselves over many times. My caution is to not make a technique out of a manifestation of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit does something, it is for a specific purpose for that person or time. Sadly, all too often, some will see it and try to duplicate the experience in the flesh.
Verse (s) to Ponder: John 2:5.
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, please let me be sensitive to Your Holy Spirit and not attempt to duplicate Your works in my own flesh.
Chapter 17: Ty’s Mom Needs a Healing
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Today’s Bible reading establishes that there is a proper time for everything to take place. Verse 1 summarizes it by these words: Ecclesiastes 3:1 “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” The passage goes on to elaborate on this premise.
Today’s Story: In Today’s story, Ty’s mom was the one who needed a healing. The following is Pastor Ty’s account of the event: I was a young Pentecostal preacher in my first church. Miracles and healings were flowing in the church. My Baptist mother came to visit and wanted me to pray for a disease (Lupus) to be removed from her body. Now every son wants to please his mother, but the Holy Spirit would not allow it because her eyes were on her son and not the Father’s son.
A couple of months later, when she was visiting again, she was in deep worship. The Holy Spirit said, “NOW, as her eyes are on the Prize.” The elders and I anointed her with oil. She said later that it felt like “hot flashes” that she experienced when she was going through the “change of life.” To my joy and confidence in the Healer, I can report that Mom went home with a failing heart at 87 years of age. Her lupus never returned for the last 25 years of her life here on this earth. Just remember, Spiritual Care Giver, that the right answer yesterday may not be the answer the Holy Spirit is giving for today. Be sensitive to His leading and timing, and the “gates of hell shall not prevail.”
Verse to Ponder: Malachi 4:2.
Prayer for Today: Lord, Jesus, thank you for being my healer. Let me always look to You for my healing and not those servants by whom You choose to deliver it. Let me always direct others to look to You, and credit You, for any healing that You might use me to facilitate.
Chapter 18: A Lady’s Ankle is Swollen to Twice its Size
Bible Reading:Luke 5:12-16
Today’s Bible reading establishes that Jesus has the power and willingness to heal. It is the familiar story in which a person filled with leprosy worships Jesus and acknowledges the Lord’s ability to heal. The man states that if the Lord is willing to do so, Jesus can cure him of his leprosy. The Lord acknowledges His willingness to heal the man, does so immediately, and sends him to the priest to give the prescribed offering as a testimony of his healing.
Today’s Story: Today’s story illustrates the fact that the Lord is still able and willing to heal in response to worship and believing faith. As the story is related, it will become apparent that there are some parallels to the Biblical one. The following is the account of this modern-day healing:
A lady in Pastor Ty’s second church had been recently involved in an automobile accident and sustained a sprained ankle. It was wrapped in an ace bandage and was very swollen. It is our recollection that she had crutches. She was walking with a limp. The woman came forward to be anointed with oil. Pastor Ty made the sign of the cross on her forehead, as was his custom. It was something that the Lord had instructed him to do early in his ministry. Interestingly, we have heard of other pastors who have been instructed by the Lord to do the same. When the bandage was removed, it immediately became apparent that the ankle was no longer swollen to twice its size, and the lady was able to walk normally. Praise the Lord for such a dramatic healing! The speed of the revelation reminded me of the healing in our story today. We have seen many healings in our ministry. Even though our church motto at that time was “Where God’s miracles are an everyday occurrence,” and our faith was at a high level, not every healing was this dramatic (except to the one who received it.) No matter how they came, we were grateful to our “Balm of Gilead” for them all.
Verse to Ponder: Matthew 14:14
Today’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for Your ability and willingness to heal. Let us be Your vessels of mercy to those who are suffering in any way.
Chapter 19: Betsy’s Mom Needs a Healing
Bible Reading:Luke 10:13-17 Today’s Bible reading tells the story of a woman who was cured by Jesus of a back condition which caused her to be bent over. In this case, the Word says that she had a “spirit of infirmity.” Jesus said, “Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity,” and He laid His hands on her. Although the situation had been going on for eighteen years, at the Words and touch of Jesus her back straightened up immediately, and she glorified God.
Today’s Story: Betsy’s Mom had been suffering greatly from rheumatoid arthritis in her hands. It was a very painful condition, and her fingers were badly swollen and gnarled. Instead of making the sign of the cross on her forehead with oil, as was his custom, Pastor Ty anointed both of her hands, covering them completely with oil. Miraculously, the fingers straightened up immediately, and everyone glorified God for the wonderful healing He had graciously granted. Surely our God is a God of great mercy and compassion!
Verse to Ponder: Acts 10:38.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, “Let the Words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, Oh Lord, my strength and my redeemer,” ( Psalm 19:14) so that it might be said of me, as it was of them, “And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.” (Acts 11:21)
Chapter 20: The Vision on the Freeway and “Glory be to the Lamb”
Bible Reading: Acts 11:1-18 Today’s Bible story recounts the vision of Peter about the eating of unclean food and its subsequent fulfillment in the Gentiles being baptized with the Holy Ghost. Today’s story relates to a vision and a modern-day fulfillment.
Today’s Story: This experience took place during the period when we were at Faith Temple observing many miracles. Ty was asking the question of the Holy Spirit, “And what will our ministry be?” We were anxious to be participants in the mighty works of God and not just spectators. Ty was on his way to work. This is how he describes what happened: I was driving on Highway 280 from San Jose when a screen like a TV screen dropped down in front of me. I was in a church, dressed in a white suit. A young man introduced me as his pastor. In the background, a song was being sung that had words and music I had never heard before. Betsy was playing. I called a woman forward to be prayed for. She had black hair that had been put up in a bun. She was suffering from blindness. As the Lord instructed, I asked her to blink her eyes seven times. On the seventh time, she was able to see. What an amazing miracle, just like in the Bible! As I was on the cutoff between 280 and 101, I had my hands in the air, with tears streaming down my face. As I looked over, the man in the next car was “freaking out” at the sight. Finally, I was driving on 101, headed towards Mountain View, and the vision had ended. As I related the story to Betsy, she inquired about the song, and I said, like the king’s dream in the Bible, “The thing is gone from me.” Fast forward several years, and we were living in rural, northern California, pastoring our first church. Ty came home from work to find Betsy at the piano playing a new song the Lord had given her. Lo, and behold, it was the song Ty had heard in the vision. Here is the chorus: Glory, Glory, Honor, and praise. Glory be to the Lamb. Glory, Glory, Honor, and praise. Glory be to the Lamb. (The entire song appears on the following page.)
Verse to Ponder: Acts 2:17.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, let us be so devoted to You that You can pour out Your Spirit upon us as You did on the Day of Pentecost. May we bring You glory.
“Glory Be to the Lamb”
By Elizabeth C. Tice (Based on Hebrews 13:15, Isaiah 29:13, Revelation 5:12-13, Psalm 63:4, I Corinthians 6:20)
Key of F CHORUS: Glory, glory, honor, and praise. Glory be to the Lamb. Glory, glory, honor, and praise. Glory be to the Lamb.
VERSE 1: We will honor Him (You) with our [lips]. Glory be to the Lamb. We will honor Him (You) with our [lips]. Glory be to the Lamb.
VERSE 2: [Hearts]
VERSE 3: [Lives]
CHORUS:
VERSE 4: [Praise] VERSE 5: [Hands]
CHORUS:
Chapter 21: “And He’s Working all Things for my Good,” Song, Sermon, and an “Open Vision”
Bible Reading:I Samuel 3 Today’s Bible reading tells the story of Samuel, a prophet of Israel, learning to hear the voice of the Lord as a child. In the
days of the prophets, it was a rare event to hear the Word of the Lord directly from Him. As verse 1 said, “…And the Word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision.” Usually, only the prophets heard from the Lord, and they communicated the Word to the people. In Acts 2, Peter explained that in “the last days,” more people would be able to hear and prophesy.
Today’s Story: Ty and Betsy had been going through a challenging time. Betsy had just had surgery, and, in addition, the Lord had directed them to close the work they had established in the North Valley to which they had devoted themselves. They were slated to attend the Northern California Conference camp meeting of their denomination, an annual event. At this time, the Holy Spirit gave Betsy a song based on Romans 8:28, “And He’s Working all Things for my Good.” At that time, it was a declaration of faith. The time came for the camp meeting. When the speaker gave the message, guess what the topic was? God is working everything to accomplish His best in our lives. Truly, God is “no respecter of persons,” and we can all hear and speak His Word if we will listen. In addition, truly He is for us and not against us.
CHORUS:
And He’s Working All Things for my good.
And He’s kept every promise, as I knew He would.
Though the road may be long, and the pathway steep
He’s working all things for my good
Verse to Ponder: I Samuel 3:19
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, Be with me, as You were with Samuel and let my Words be Your Words, as His were, so that they might not return to You empty, but will accomplish that for which You intended them. (Isaiah 55:11)
Chapter 22: She Walked Through the Door
Bible Reading: I Kings 17:8 – 16 Today’s Bible reading tells the story of how the Lord miraculously provided for the needs of a widow during a period of drought. The Lord gave the instructions through the prophet, and the provision was made as the widow obeyed the Word of the Lord in faith.
Today’s Story: Ty and Betsy had just taken a giant leap of faith. They had accepted a position as the pastors of Lakeport Bible Church. To accomplish this, they sold their home and left their jobs in the Bay Area. At the time, the little church could only afford to pay them $250.00 a month. Even in 1981, that was not a living wage. They debated about how to supplement this amount. They could either both work part-time jobs to make ends meet, or one of them could get a full-time job and let the other be completely devoted to the ministry. They both agreed that Betsy should try to get the full-time job, and Ty would be a full-time pastor. Betsy felt led to apply at Christian schools since she had a credential and prior experience. There was a private Christian school in Redwood Valley which was supported by about eight churches. As she walked through the door, the secretary said, “We have been praying for a teacher for our third grade.” Lo, and behold, Betsy’s expertise was in third grade. The Lord had provided for everyone I would like to note that teaching, especially in a Christian school, is a ministry. So while we noted above that Ty would be a full-time pastor, that also allows for the fact that a Christian schoolteacher is serving God, likewise.
Verses to Ponder: Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalm 37:23.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, be with me always and direct my steps in your paths. (Heb. 12:13-14)
Chapter 23: God Opens Ty’s Eyes to His Provision – Turn Left from South Avenue
Bible Reading: Genesis 21:1-21
Today’s Bible reading tells the story of the Lord’s provision for Hagar and her son who was dying of thirst in the desert. God opened her eyes to see a well and provided for the boy’s needs.
Today’s Story: Ty and Betsy were in a financial desert even though God had miraculously sold two houses which were a burden to them within the space of a week. They were now renting a condo in Corning as it seemed impossible to purchase another property at that time. One day, Ty was driving down South Avenue in Corning, California, approaching Woodson Bridge. The Lord impressed upon his spirit to turn left. Why? He did not know. What he did know, is that it is wise to obey an “unction” from the Lord. An “unction” is a strong impression in one’s spirit by the Holy Spirit to take or not take a course of action. Ty turned left onto Gardiner Ferry Road and saw a lovely mobile home park by the name of Woodson Bridge Estates. Its existence was previously unknown to him. God had opened his eyes to an opportunity to own a home again. This was probably the only desirable dwelling that we could afford. We were able to purchase a 1990 double-wide on a foundation with a garage in a lovely park with a small lot, which we did not own, and a community pool, and clubhouse. We were so thrilled and lived there happily until the next move that God directed. As the hymn says, “Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me.”
Verse to Ponder: Philippians 4:19.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, thank you for Your provision of all our need, including the physical and spiritual ones. Let us always be attuned to hear Your voice in all things, so that we might honor You with our decisions and lives.
Chapter 24: The Roof That did not Cave in – The Prophet and the Preacher
Bible Reading: Acts 5:1 - 11 Today’s Bible reading relates the famous story of Ananias and Sapphira. They were attempting to lie to the Holy Ghost and Peter, His representative, by cheating the church out of a portion of tithe that they owed on a property that they had just sold. Unfortunately, for them, their deception was exposed, and they died.
Today’s Story: Today’s incident involves greed and deception in modern times. Let’s hope it has a better ending. This is how Pastor Ty shares it: A humble man of God that flowed in the Manifested Gifts of the Holy Spirit, related to me a time when the Lord showed him something about a famous T.V. minister and his ministry. This brother called on the phone and asked to speak to the minister. He was put right through. (In large ministries if you are not someone that is already known to them, this just does not happen.) Our friend shared how the Lord had shown him that the contractor that had built their new church had cheated on the materials, and the building was structurally unsound. The minister thanked him and confronted the contractor, who was also a member of his church. The contractor repented, went back in, and brought the building up to code. May I also point out that the minister and congregation publicly forgave him?
Verse to Ponder: Proverbs 28:13
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord Jesus, I will confess my sins to you, so that I may receive Your forgiveness and cleansing and walk in Your light. (I John 1:5 - 10) Give me the grace to do things Your way. In Your precious Name I pray. AMEN
Chapter 25: What about Buddha?
Bible Reading:Acts 17:22-34
Today’s Bible reading tells the well-known story of Paul on Mars Hill in Athens. Instead of arguing with the men of Athens, Paul presented the God he knew intimately, the creator of the universe, as the God that they had labeled as “THE UNKNOWN GOD.”
Today’s Story: The following is Pastor Ty’s account of the story in his own words: Very early in my ministry, I was ministering one Sunday on John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Monday morning, I had an appointment with a woman in her home. After prayer she turned toward me and asked me, “Pastor, what about all the people that worship Buddha? Are they going to hell?” The Spirit of the Lord gave me an unction that this was a ruse and should not be addressed. I responded, “Sister, that is not important right now. Jesus wants to save you and come into your heart.” Together we prayed, and she accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord. As I left a woman full of happiness and joy, I proceeded to the church office to begin my day. As I waited for my first appointment to arrive, I wondered what might be on her mind. As I inquired of her, she asked, “Pastor, what about all the people who worship Buddha? Will they all go to hell?” I smiled, as I thought to myself, “Satan, you don’t even have a new trick!” Using the same response as the Lord had given me for the first lady, I had the joy of leading my second person to the Lord’s salvation that morning.
Verses to Ponder: II Timothy 2:14-15 and 23-26.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, help me to prepare myself daily by prayer and a study of the Word for any people that I might encounter that I might give them Your words of Truth, uttered in the power of Your Spirit, that souls might come to know You and find salvation.
Chapter 26: A Promise Fulfilled
Bible Reading:I Kings 8:56 tells that God had fulfilled all the promises that He had delivered through Moses and given His people rest.
Today’s Story: In the mid 1980’s, ministers were “falling like flies” either by infidelity or burnout. God laid it upon Ty’s heart, along with eight other ministers, to start an association of ministers with a passion to restore those that had been broken. F.G.R.M.C. was incorporated in 1986. The Lord had shared with Ty in a dream that by the end of the year, there would be 200 ministers as a part of this restoration army. He became fully aware of this fact upon becoming awake. To facilitate the growth of the organization, Ty was running a personal ad in an evangelical magazine, a practice which they no longer allow. The ad simply stated: Called to minister? F.G.R.M.C. P.O. Box 1380 Lucerne, California.* It was nearing the end of the year, and the organization’s membership stood at 50. How was the Lord going to meet the gap that stood between the 50 and the promised 200? Ty never doubted that it would happen, although he certainly did not know how. Near the end of the year, Ty received a response to his ad from a minister in the Philippines. His organization had lost its covering in the United States and was looking for another one, an organization that would be full gospel and have restoration as its thrust. Since all they had to go on were the initials, and this preceded Google searching, they asked if F.G.R.M.C. was like-minded? How much more like minded could a ministry be that called itself Full Gospel Restoration Ministers and Churches? Could they accommodate his 150 ministers? Could they? Of course! That number would complete the promise and fulfill the Word that Ty had received. Hallelujah! God had provided and proved Himself faithful to his Word!
Verse to Ponder: II Chronicles 20:20.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord Jesus, let me always believe in Your Faithfulness and Your Word.
*Present address for FGRMC/FOCUS BIBLE COLLEGE PO BOX 1344, Sedalia, MO 65302-1344
CHAPTER 27: Return to FGRMC and the Weeping Jeremiah’s
Bible Reading:Jeremiah 23:16 -32, especially 28 - 29 This passage contrasts false prophets and God’s true prophets. It has also had a special meaning to Pastor Tice, as the Lord challenged him from the beginnings of his ministry to be a true, and not a false, prophet. Verses 28 – 30 have also been especially significant in that they exhort the true prophet to be “wheat” and not “chaff,” to speak God’s Word faithfully, the Word that is likened to a “fire” and a “hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces.”
Today’s Story: We had moved into a new town and a new position, that of associate pastor. God had moved heaven and earth to solve our housing challenges by selling two houses in one week, one of which we had been trying to sell for seven years. A visiting speaker, relatively unknown to us, was a guest in the church. She had given Words of Knowledge to many while we were doing background music. She approached us, and Pastor Ty reluctantly agreed to be prayed over. She uttered these words, “This is not for you. Your church is the ‘weeping Jeremiah’s,’ and they are waiting for your call.” This was not a welcome Word. Ty had just settled into his position, and we were not familiar with the person giving the Word. He did what was prudent, put it on a shelf to see if it would prove itself to be true. Several months later, Ty called the current head of F.G.R.M.C. to check in and was greeted with, “Can you please take the organization back? I am weary and have been wanting to relinquish the position for several months.” As it turned out, the timing of his desire coincided exactly with the day we had been given the Word. Of course, we accepted both the Word and the challenge that God was giving us. Pastor Ty served as the General Bishop of F.G.R.M.C. until 2014 when God instructed him to turn the leadership over to another, a directive from the Lord which he obeyed
Verses to Ponder: I Cor. 3:9 and I Samuel 15:22
Prayer for Today: “Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done, on Earth, as it is in Heaven.” Matthew 6:10
CHAPTER 28: Sell in California and Buy in Texas
Bible Reading: Exodus 13:21 This verse explains how the Lord led the Israelites through the wilderness with a cloud by day and a fire by night.
Today’s Story: It was time for Betsy to retire. As our income would be seriously diminished, it became apparent that California was out of our reach financially as a place to live. Where should we go and when? One consideration had to be the ministry (F.G.R.M.C.) that we were again called to lead. Having grown up in the Midwest, we were not fans of the cold, so we were looking to head South. The Lord reminded Ty of a place where the head of a ministerial organization in which he had been a bishop had spent some time. It was a place called Texarkana, Texas, two cities in two states separated by a street appropriately called Stateline. After investigating the two states, we found that Texas was favorable to the ministry, and Arkansas was favorable to the Bible College, so this interesting place fit the bill. Now, we weren’t quite ready to move yet; however, God gave us a strange directive. He told us to sell our little mobile in California, buy a house in Texas, and rent in California. We followed His directive. After our ministry conference in Missouri, we headed to Texarkana, a place we had never previously visited, spent fourteen hours straight looking at houses, and bought a house. Although our house in California was on the market, it had not sold yet. A couple of months later it sold. What the Lord knew that we didn’t, was that the housing market was about to crash in California. We sold our mobile for top dollar before the crash and bought a nice house in Texas where housing was, at the time, considerably cheaper and the market a lot less volatile. Years later, sitting safely in our Texas house, I saw our mobile for sale at a greatly diminished price from what we had received. The Lord talks about how He will guide us with His eye. From His vantage point, He sees everything, everywhere, and in an eternal perspective. At our wedding we sang, a duet, “Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us,” and how He has. Praise His Holy Name!
Verses to Ponder: Psalm 32:8 – 11.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord Jesus, let us always live close enough to You so that we can receive Your guidance and direction and make right decisions. Thank you for Your providence and provision always. Great is Thy faithfulness!
CHAPTER 29: God Can Use Anything
Bible Reading:Luke 19:29 – 40 Our Bible reading today tells the story of Jesus’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. It begins with the account of Him telling His disciples how to procure the colt upon which He rode. As He rode into the city, the people praised God with a “loud voice.” They said, “Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord; peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.”
Today’s Story: In the Biblical account, Jesus used a colt by permission of the owners. In our case, God used a business. You may recall from a previous story that we had moved to Texarkana for the ministry and Bible College with our need to lower expenses as Betsy retired from living in California. Even in Texas, however, our finances were strained. One Saturday night, Ty pointed out an interesting and unusual program. It was an auction of foreclosed houses from Florida with incredibly low prices that seemed “too good to be true.” The introduction to a possible answer to financial strain coalesced with what was happening in the ministry. When we moved to Texarkana, the Arkansas laws were incredibly friendly to Bible colleges. As time progressed, however, it became increasingly more complicated to register every year. We began to look for an alternative. Our accrediting association had moved to Florida. We began to look there also. We found that Florida required what Arkansas had originally required, a simple declaration that we were a Bible college teaching the Word of God and not purporting to be a secular institution. Looked like Florida was to be our next home. But where in Florida?
Verses to Ponder: Exodus 33:14 – 16.
Prayer for Today: “Let me dwell in Your presence, Oh Lord. Let me listen and learn at Your feet. Let me look on Your face. And be lost in Your grace. Let me dwell in Your presence, Oh Lord.” ~ Holy Spirit to Betsy Tice in a song
CHAPTER 30: There’s a Ram in the Bush
Bible Reading:Genesis 22:1 - 14 Today’s Bible reading relates the story of how God asked Abraham to offer his only son as a burnt offering. Just as Abraham was poised, knife in hand, to sacrifice his son, an angel of the Lord called out from heaven and stopped him, indicating that this had only been a test of his faith and fear of God. As Abraham looked up, he saw the ram that God had provided in the bush and was able to offer him up as a burnt sacrifice instead. At that point, Abraham used the term “Jehovah Jireh,” a term we often use to refer to our God as our provider.
Today’s Story: We were headed to Florida. To avoid the high prices of the coast and hurricanes, we decided on Ocala, after literally moving our finger down the center of the state. We visited for the first time in July, did some exploratory house-hunting, and found out that unless our Texas house was in escrow, we couldn’t make a contingent offer. By December, we felt led to go back to Ocala and purchase a house without making the offer contingent, though we had no prospects in sight for the sale of our Texarkana house which had been on the market for many months. If we lost our Texas house in the process, so be it. In January, God provided the ram, an investor with a cash offer who wanted a quick close. (Two Weeks!) Uh, oh. The bank had not responded to our offer in Ocala on a short sale, although we had offered full price. It was two weeks to the scheduled closing, and we had no place to live in Ocala. Time for ram #2. It looks like we may need a whole herd by the time this move is done. Ram #2 was an apartment complex that we found online that often specialized in granting temporary residency to people in our position. We would have to sign a one-year lease; however, we could break it for a penalty of one month.
Verse to Ponder: Psalm 37:25.
Prayer for Today: Thank you, Jesus for never forsaking us and always providing our needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your guidance and direction to make right decisions, even though often faith is required. Let us live close enough to hear Your voice and receive Your wisdom and provision.
CHAPTER 31: Ram #3 God Saves us From a Mistake
Bible Reading:Genesis 45:4 – 28 This portion of Scripture tells the reveal of Joseph to his brothers. In an amazing display of wisdom and forgiveness, Joseph tells them not to blame themselves for selling him into slavery. In fact, God used this to promote Joseph to the point where he could preserve them alive during the famine that ravaged both Canaan and
Chapter 10: The Coconut Oil Healing
Egypt because God had revealed to Joseph the coming famine and how to prepare for it.
Today’s Story: God had instructed us to move to Florida; however, we were living in temporary guest quarters, waiting for our temporary apartment arrangement, waiting for word from the bank. At this point, both we and our realtor became fed up with the delay and decided to look elsewhere for a house to buy. There were several 55+ communities within our price range. One of them was a lovely one consisting of block and stucco homes that were very much underpriced due to foreclosures and a lot of negative press given the developer by disgruntled residents. In fact, I had even feared to buy there because of what I had read on the internet. BUT GOD! Said in a Word uttered by Ty in our Texas home, “If the right house is in ___, do not fear to buy it. You were not thrilled with your first real estate agent, and I took care of that.” Ty had an unction that we had to move fast, so we began looking in earnest. The house God had picked for us was in that development. We loved the community, and God gave us the house with all its furnishings at a great price. The house had just experienced a huge price drop, so we had not considered it before. Of course, we had been led to leave most of our furnishings in Texas, and the buyer of the house there had wanted them. The house in Florida has almost doubled in price since we bought it. Not only that, but it was valued at even more before the crashes in both California and Florida. We could not have bought it when we bought in Texas. A shady operator had made the situation worse in Ocala. (I saw his story on TV). We are so happy here in our community and our house. When the storms come, we are like the little pig in the story who had the brick house. I think of the song, “My Lord Knows the way through the Wilderness. All I have to do is follow.”
Verses to Ponder: Genesis 45:8 and 20.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, help me to trust in You to continue to provide all that I need, “According to Your riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” as Philippians 4:19 promises. Let me not cling to what You have already given, but acknowledge You as the source and daily provider of all of my needs, knowing that everything is Yours, and I am granted access to it, as You deem fit. (Psalm 24:1,2)
CHAPTER 32: Miracle on the Sunol Pass
Bible Reading: Nehemiah 9:1-22, especially 20-22 Today’s Bible reading tells that the Lord provided for the children of Israel during the wilderness journey. Not only did he provide manna and water, but their clothes did not wear out, and their feet did not swell.
Today’s Story: Ty and Betsy needed a miracle. They were returning from the home of their friends on New Year’s Eve after midnight. They had enjoyed a great time of fun together playing UNO and had neglected to fill up their gas tank. The area in which they were traveling was an isolated one at the time with a hill at the end (the Sunol Pass). The car had stalled out and stopped because it was out of gas. Betsy put her hand on the dashboard and began to pray, almost in a whisper at first. Ty found the whispered prayers to be annoying until he tried the starter, and the car started. Now he said, “Keep praying. It’s working.” Betsy continued to pray until they had gone over the Sunol Pass. At the bottom of the hill they arrived at a gas station, and the car sputtered and stopped by the pump. Once again, God had miraculously provided the needs of His people.
Verses to Ponder: Matthew 17:20 and Romans 10:17
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, help us to saturate ourselves in Your presence and with Your Word, so that in the time of crisis, we will have the faith to obtain Your provision for our need and the needs of those around us. Let us, like Peter, “…give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.” (Acts 6:4)
CHAPTER 33: The Miracle of the Raggedy Ann’s and Andy’s
Bible Reading:Matthew 6:14-21 Today’s Bible reading establishes that Jesus has power to meet the needs of His people even if it means multiplying what is humanly available. It is the famous miracle account of the feeding of the five thousand men in addition to the women and children. Even though they started with five loaves and two fishes, after everyone was fed, there were still twelve baskets left over.
Today’s Story:
It was nearing Christmas in our second church, and Pastor Ty’s mom had made gifts for the children. They were handmade Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls to be distributed to the boys and girls. When the time came to pass out the presents, there was a problem. Mom and a couple of other ladies in the church had made eleven dolls for the ten children that were anticipated to attend. The eleventh doll was an extra one in case an unanticipated visitor came. Somehow, however, twelve children had come. The dolls were in a bag and had been carefully counted. There were eleven. We were one short. What should we do? Pastor Ty decided that we would start passing them out, just as in the Biblical account. Lo, and behold, every child received a doll. We could not explain it except that God had miraculously provided for the extra, precious child who had come. OH, HOW JESUS STILL LOVES THE LITTLE CHILDREN!
Verse to Ponder: Philippians 4:19.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, Jesus, let Your faith and compassion flow through us to meet the needs of Your people.
CHAPTER 34: Parting of the Clouds – God Rewards Peter’s Faith (Not his real name)
Bible Reading: Matthew 8:23-27
Today’s Bible reading establishes that Jesus has power over the elements of nature. It is the familiar one where Jesus is awakened by his fearful disciples during a ferocious storm. He quiets the elements with His command.
Today’s Story: Today’s story illustrates the fact that the elements of nature are still subject to the power of God. This is how Pastor Ty relates it:
Many times, we think God does not care about the small stuff. How wrong we are! My second church was a converted hardware store that sat on the shore of a large lake. The store had a large metal sign on the front of the building which we had painted over. One of our young men was an excellent artist who had created our church logo and offered to put it on the sign along with the name of the church. A group of us were driving to a camp meeting in the valley to hear a great evangelist. As we drove by the church, Peter was on his ladder, getting ready to paint the sign. I looked out over the lake, and large storm clouds were headed toward us. I told Peter, “A storm is coming. Why don’t you put down your brush and come with us?” He declined and stated that he felt God wanted him to finish the sign. We blessed our dear brother and prayed for the Lord’s protection for him. The following Sunday, we drove up to the church with a beautiful new sign in front. I asked Peter how he had kept the paint from running when the storm passed over. He smiled and said, “It was God. When the storm neared this side of the lake, the clouds parted. Half of the clouds went to the north of town, while the other half went to the south of town.” God’s hand of protection was on Peter’s work for him.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Hebrews 11:6
Prayer for Today: From the song given by the Holy Spirit to Dr. Elizabeth C. Tice (Betsy) “That You Might Receive Glory” May my prayers reach You, Lord. May my heart touch Your heart. May my life honor You that You might receive glory.
CHAPTER 35: Daniel in the Lions’ Den – Ruth and the Dogs (Not Her Real Name)
Bible Reading: Daniel 6
Today’s Bible reading tells the familiar story of Daniel in the Lions’ Den. Some leaders in the kingdom of Darius devised a plot against Daniel. The beautiful thing is that he was so good in performing his duties that they had to trap him regarding his relationship with his God. Eventually, he was thrown into a den with some ferocious lions and remained unharmed. These real lions broke all the bones of the leaders who had set Daniel up, as well as those of their families, when they were subsequently thrown into the den.
Today’s Story: Ty, Betsy, and two friends were taking a walk. As they were walking, they came upon a junkyard guarded by, you guessed it, a couple of ferocious junkyard dogs. As they began to walk by, the dogs began to charge and attack. Even though there was a fence, there was no guarantee that it would hold. Full of faith, Ruth commanded the dogs to stop with the words, “In the Name of Jesus.” It was hysterical to see the dogs skid to a stop. The picture that remains in my mind to this day is the dogs sitting on their haunches, at attention, their paws straight in front of them.
Verses to Ponder: Luke 10:17 – 20.
Today’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, let us “dwell in the secret place of the most high,” so that we can “abide under the shadow of the Almighty,” (Psalm 91:1) and call upon Your Name in the time of need. Let us always remember, as Jesus instructed the seventy, that being written in the “Lamb’s Book of Life” is the blessing most worthy of celebrating!
CHAPTER 36: The Puppy and the Angel
Bible Reading: Numbers 22: 21 - 35 This is the famous story of Balaam and his donkey. Amazingly, the donkey saw the angel before Balaam did. In addition, the donkey spoke.
Today’s Story: At our second church we were blessed to have a visiting speaker from Africa. His primary language was not English. In fact, his English was very broken; however, He was full of the Holy Ghost, and, for this reason, the people were very blessed and inspired when he spoke. We were privileged to have him as a guest in our home, and he sat on the couch. Our little dog was totally enthralled with him. This was unusual for her, as she was precious, but shy. She jumped up on the couch and snuggled next to him, well, not exactly next to him. She left a space, the size of a person between herself and our beloved visitor. To this day, we can only conclude that, like the donkey in the story, she had seen his angel. This humble servant of the Lord was of great value to God, and our puppy realized it. Beloved, let us always remember to value those whom God values and let His standards supersede ours.
Verse (s) to Ponder: Matthew 10:40 – 42.
Prayer for Today: Lord Jesus, open our eyes that we might value those whom you value and receive the Words that You give, even from Your humblest of servants. Let us not look on “outward appearances”, but, like You do, “on the heart.” If men do not receive us or our Words from You, let us “shake off the dust” of rejection from our feet and go forth into the “fountain of joy,” that You provide when we choose to “abide in Your presence.”
CHAPTER 37: Ears to Hear: Part 1 - The Goldfish
Bible Reading: I John 4:1 - 6 This passage in I John tells us not to believe every spirit that speaks, purporting to have a prophecy from the Lord. It gives instructions for how to identify and discern whether a person is speaking by the Spirit of God. Basically, the test is does it acknowledge Jesus Christ as the anointed one of God, God Himself. He became flesh and dwelt among us. True prophecy glorifies Jesus.
Today’s Story: Today, we will deal with the “goldfish” mentality when it comes to prophecy. A goldfish is a “non-discriminating” eater. He will even eat the refuse on the bottom of the tank, including fish poop and scales. When it comes to prophecy, some people are like that. If someone purports it to be from God, they will swallow it, especially if it strokes their ego. Jeremiah warned about this when he said that the false prophets made the people “vain.” I was visiting in the home of a person who attended the same church that figures so prominently in this devotional. She shared with me about Eastern religion, and that the “Ashrams” were just like what we were experiencing at the Cathedral of Faith. She claimed it was all Holy Spirit. This was shocking to me. I found myself being confused. I read some material that she had. Then the Lord reminded me of the I John 4 verses. The true test is what they believe about Jesus. If He is missing or declared to be less than God in the flesh, part of the Trinity, and eternal, they are missing the mark. Discernment has never been one of my strong suites, but my knowledge of the Scripture allowed me to see the light. (I hasten to add that the Cathedral would have been as shocked as I was by the beliefs that she was espousing.) Pastor Foreman had a saying. “With the Word alone, you’ll dry up. With the Spirit alone, you’ll blow up. With the Spirit and the Word, you’ll grow up.”
Verse(s) to Ponder: Jeremiah 9:16.
Today’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, let me be so full of the Word, that I can not be deceived. Let me lead others in Your truth. Let me be so full of Your Spirit that I can be obedient to that which You commanded of Your disciples, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, and cast out devils.” (Matthew 10:8)
CHAPTER 38: Ears to Hear: Part 2 - The Proud
Bible Reading Matthew 13:54-58
Today, our Bible reading focuses on the rejection of Jesus by his relatives and the loss of the blessings they could have received had they believed in Him. How often do we miss out on a Rhema Word (a specific Word from the Lord to us) because it comes in an unexpected setting from a humble servant of God as opposed to a giant church service where everyone is expecting a Word from the renowned pastor, prophet, or evangelist?
Today’s Story: Many years ago, I was privileged to be a guest in the home of Dolores Hayford, Jack Hayford’s mom. She and her husband were great supporters of the mission where my parents were involved in leadership. She related a story about a family member who had endured many things that I was experiencing at the time. Had I realized that it was an invitation from the Lord (a Word, if you prefer) and received it, I might have been saved many years of suffering. Graciously, the Lord granted me a deliverance from my fear many years later when I was ready to receive it. This time, it did come in the expected form, a church service led by a renowned pastor. While we were attending Pastor Foreman’s church, we had the opportunity to hear many Words of Knowledge from the pulpit. Imagine my amazement when Words of Knowledge, and/or other Words from the Lord, began to flow through my husband in the living room during a conversation. I would often be heard to ask, “Was that a Word from the Lord?”. Believe me, in those days, I learned to listen, even to my husband in the living room. Sadly, I have seen people miss Words from the Lord because my husband is not famous, and the setting was not a great church. One couple missed a Word concerning the direction of their ministry that he gave in a restaurant.
Verse to Ponder: I Peter 5:6
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord Jesus, please let us not miss the blessing of a Word from you when it comes from a humble servant at an unexpected time and/or place. May our ears be like that of a German Shepherd upright, alert, and attuned to hear the voice of the Master.
“Humble Yourselves” (Attached Song)
“Humble Yourselves” (I Peter 5:6, Hebrews 10:35 – 6, Rev.1:7;22:12 – 13, Matthew 24:27)
By Elizabeth C. Tice (Betsy) Key of C
CHORUS:
“Humble yourselves. Humble yourselves. Humble yourselves. Under the mighty hand of God, under the mighty hand of God, And He will exalt you. And He will exalt you. And he will exalt you In His Time.”
VERSE 1: “Cast not away your confidence. (X2) Cast not away your confidence Which has a great reward.” For soon our Lord will come, Will come in clouds of glory. The Alpha and Omega Will split the Eastern sky. CHORUS 2:
“Behold I come. Behold I come. Behold I come. And behold, I come quickly, And My reward is with Me To give to every man. According as His work shall be.”
CHORUS 1:
Possible Sequels: “It is God Which Worketh in You,” “And He’s Working All Things For My Good”
CHAPTER 39: Ears to Hear: Part 3 - Those Who Miss God’s Best
Bible Reading: Mark 10:17 - 31 One type of person who missed God’s best was the man often described as the “rich young ruler.” He was already a good, religious person (self-described), and he believed in Jesus, calling Him, “good master.” His problem was that he was not willing to sacrifice his riches to follow Jesus. The Lord went on to say that those who “trust in riches” have an extremely difficult time entering the Kingdom of God. It practically requires a miracle. The good news is that everything is possible with God.
Today’s Story: As I have gone through life, I have observed people who were called to the ministry, and, yet, like the rich, young ruler, missed God’s best. One couple stated the financial circumstances under which they would become evangelists. They had experienced hardships in previous attempts and were unwilling to step out in faith again. Another couple was unwilling to leave a solid church to step out in evangelism, their true calling. There again, who knows what would have happened had they done it?
Verse(s) to Ponder: Here is a song to ponder: (Attached)
Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to be like Peter, and not the “rich young ruler.” Let us be able to say with Peter, “Lo, we have left all, and have followed Thee.”
“Take Thy Cross and Follow Me” (John 21:21 - 22, Matthew 16:25) By Elizabeth C. Tice (Betsy) Key of C or F
CHORUS: “If I will that he should tarry, what is that to thee? If I will that he should tarry, take Thy cross and follow Me.”
VERSE 1: Long ago, the Savior called to Peter by the sea. Long ago, He said unto him, “Leave thy nets and follow me.” VERSE 2: Can’t you hear the Savior calling, calling unto thee? Can’t you hear Him say unto you, “Take thy cross and follow me.”?
VERSE 3: He who saves his life shall lose it. He who seeks shall surely find. He who loses life shall find it. For his life is hid in Mine.
CHORUS: “If I will that he should tarry, what is that to thee? If I will that he should tarry, take Thy cross and follow Me.”
CHAPTER 40: Ears to Hear: Part 4 - The Winners
Bible Reading: Luke 8: 5 - 21 This passage relates the parable of the sower. Part of the seed (the Word of God) fell by the wayside and was eaten by the birds. Another part fell upon a rock and, lacking moisture, dried up and died. Another part was choked out by thorns. The last fell upon Good Ground and brought forth an abundant harvest of fruit even “an hundredfold.” We are encouraged to be those who have ears that hear and use them. After his physical family comes, Jesus gives a special acknowledgement to His true followers with these words, “…My mother and my brethren are these which hear the Word of God and do it.”
Today’s Story: Today’s winner is the pastor of a church in Arkansas. Even though my husband was only a humble, unknown, visiting servant of the Lord, this pastor recognized that the Word the Spirit sent to him by means of an email was from the Lord. He received it and acted upon it. Because of this, there is a thriving training center for young ministers operating through his church and in the community. Verse(s) to Ponder: Luke 8:15 and 21; Psalm 42:1
Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord, let me be good soil that brings forth much good fruit. I so want You to acknowledge me as Your Mother or Sister.
CHAPTER 41: The Loser Who Became a Winner
Bible Reading: Matthew 26:33 – 46, 69 – 75, Acts 2:14 - 40 In today’s Bible Reading, Peter falls asleep in the garden instead of praying, and denies the Lord three times, as Jesus had told him beforehand would happen. He becomes a winner/hero in Acts 2 when he gives the message on the Day of Pentecost.
Today’s Story: Today’s story asks you the question? Did you find yourself in the category of loser in the last story by failing so far to live up to your potential? Take heart. Peter went from colossal failure to outstanding and powerful winner. The Lord told Pastor Kenny Foreman during a great period of discouragement when the Cathedral of Faith was sitting idle and had become a place where motorcyclists drove through, the following words: “Frustrations are not final, mistakes are not fatal, and delays are not denials.” The Cathedral of Faith now stands proudly in San Jose with 12,000 members, 11 campuses, and an online and worldwide ministry.
Verse(s) to Ponder: Romans 11:29.
Today’s Prayer: (Song and Prayer)
“Peter Do You Love Me?” Holy Spirit to Elizabeth C. Tice
Peter, do you love Me? Yes, my Lord? (Two times) Feed My lambs. Feed My sheep. If you truly love Me, feed My sheep.
Verse Two: Preacher, do you love Me? Yes, my Lord? (Two times) Feed My lambs. Feed My sheep. If you really love Me, feed My sheep.
Verse Three: Christian, do you love Me? Yes, my Lord? (Two times) Do the things that I say. If you really love Me, you’ll obey.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to obedient to the words of this song and fulfill all Your will for my life. (Acts 13:22)
CHAPTER 42: Blessed Recipient of a Promise
Bible Reading:Isaiah 7:14 and Luke 1:26 - 38 In Isaiah 7:14 the virgin birth of Jesus is prophesied. Many years later, the start of the fulfillment of that prophecy begins by Gabriel’s appearance to Mary. Two particularly beautiful things in Mary’s response stand out. The first is her belief in the truth that is being explained to her. Her statement to the effect that she is a virgin shows us that a miracle is needed, and a prophecy of long-standing is going to be fulfilled. The second is her submission to God’s will in the words, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it unto me according to thy word…”
Today’s Story: Several years ago, Ty received a prophecy from a reliable prophetess who preached that Jesus is the Christ as well as adhering to the Bible in her teaching. She proclaimed that his health would greatly improve and be better in his older years than at that time. As time went on, Ty seemed to be getting sicker and weaker due to being in continuous A-fib, an extremely serious heart condition, as well as having Type-2 diabetes. When we would go grocery shopping, Ty would have to buy water at the end because he was so short of breath. As of this writing, many years later, I can report that Ty is in much better health than he has been for a long time. As a result of losing nearly 100 pounds through dieting and running in place at the pool for the better part of two years, he now walks so fast when shopping that it is hard for me to keep up. Praise God! I hope you noticed that Ty cooperated with the Lord in this project. We must do the part that God has given us to play to bring about His good Word and promises to us.
Verse(s) to Ponder: II Chronicles 20:20.
Today’s Prayer: May my life fulfill Your plan, having favor with God and man, Doing good to the household of faith. That You might receive glory. (From the song given by the Holy Spirit to Dr. Elizabeth C. (Betsy)Tice – “That You Might Receive Glory”)
CHAPTER 43: The Baby who Leaped in the Womb
Bible Reading:Luke 1:39 - 45 This passage relates how Elizabeth, who was pregnant with John the Baptist, came to visit her cousin, Mary, who was pregnant with our Lord Jesus Christ. At this visit, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost, and John leaped in her womb to acknowledge Jesus. Elizabeth gave a prophecy which said that God would perform His promise to Mary because she believed what the angel had told her.
Today’s Story: Today’s story is extremely close to the Biblical account. We were already in the ministry and had travelled to San Jose to attend a meeting at the Cathedral of Faith where R.W. Schambach, a renowned evangelist who was “full of the Holy Ghost and power,” was ministering. We were with another couple. The lady was pregnant and experiencing some difficulty. The baby was riding too low for the stage of the pregnancy that she was in. We all went to the altar with our friend. Apparently, the baby in her womb sensed a strong presence of the Holy Spirit and leaped from His position of riding too low almost into Brother Schambach’s hands. From that time on until his time of delivery, he remained in the proper position.
Verse(s) to Ponder: Hebrews 13:8.
Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, we rejoice in the fact that You are the same “yesterday, today, and forever.” Let us live close enough to You that we can be used to deliver Your blessings of healing to Your people.
CHAPTER 44: Becoming an Eyewitness
Bible Reading: John 3:1 - 21 This passage tells the story of a seeker (Nicodemus) who came to Jesus and acknowledged Him as a true teacher from God, chiefly because of the miracles which Jesus did.
Today’s Story: Nicodemus came to Jesus because of the miracles of which he was aware. This series of meditations has been written to encourage the reader to become an “Eyewitness of His Majesty,” like the Apostles, especially Peter, who used the term. You may be thinking that the privilege is limited to an elite few. Our experiences were shared to dispel that notion. What then is the requirement? Jesus told Nicodemus the answer to that question. “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” I used to think that meant go to heaven, and one day the Spirit revealed to me that it meant that, and much more, i.e. have a revelation and experiential knowledge of the Kingdom of God.
Verses to Ponder: Romans 10:9 - 13.
Today’s Prayer: (Sample Salvation Prayer) Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. Guide my life and help me to do Your will. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and baptize me by Your Spirit that I might complete my life’s journey as You take me by the hand. AMEN (So be it!) The Words of this prayer will not save you, nor baptize you in the Holy Spirit. BUT if you believe with all your heart that Christ died and rose again for you, then the Holy Scriptures say in Matthew 5:6.
CHAPTER 44: Becoming an Eyewitness
Bible Reading: John 3:1 - 21 This passage tells the story of a seeker (Nicodemus) who came to Jesus and acknowledged Him as a true teacher from God, chiefly because of the miracles which Jesus did.
Today’s Story: Nicodemus came to Jesus because of the miracles of which he was aware. This series of meditations has been written to encourage the reader to become an “Eyewitness of His Majesty,” like the Apostles, especially Peter, who used the term. You may be thinking that the privilege is limited to an elite few. Our experiences were shared to dispel that notion. What then is the requirement? Jesus told Nicodemus the answer to that question. “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” I used to think that meant go to heaven, and one day the Spirit revealed to me that it meant that, and much more, i.e. have a revelation and experiential knowledge of the Kingdom of God.
Verses to Ponder: Romans 10:9 - 13.
Today’s Prayer: (Sample Salvation Prayer) Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. Guide my life and help me to do Your will. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and baptize me by Your Spirit that I might complete my life’s journey as You take me by the hand. AMEN (So be it!) The Words of this prayer will not save you, nor baptize you in the Holy Spirit. BUT if you believe with all your heart that Christ died and rose again for you, then the Holy Scriptures say in Matthew 5:6.
CHAPTER 45: Becoming a Participant
Bible Reading:John 6:26 – 40 This passage talks about having proper priorities (not hanging around for the food). Jesus talks about believing in Him as the “bread of life,” and the One who satisfies our thirst. He states that even He came to do the Father’s will and not His own.
Today’s Story: Today’s story is about you. If you are a born-again believer, you have already taken the first step to becoming a participant in the “works of God.” Step 2 is found in Romans 12: 1- 5. We must surrender our will to the Father’s will and let Him renew our minds which have been corrupted by following our own selfish plans and desires and the world’s point of view. Only then, is there any hope of finding and fulfilling our true purpose and part in His plan. Having prepared our hearts, we may receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands or even by the hearing of a powerful sermon. The original Day of Pentecost occurred after a powerful prayer meeting. The Baptizer will determine the means for giving the gift to a prepared heart who asks to receive. (Acts 8:18 and Acts 10:44)
Verse(s) to Ponder: Luke 11:13 and Matthew 7:7 - 8
Today’s Prayer: Dear Father, I present my body as a living sacrifice to You that I might truly fulfill Your “good, acceptable, and perfect will” for my life. Please renew my mind that this goal will be accomplished in my life. I long to be able to stand before You as I enter heaven and hear You say these words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” In Jesus’ Name. AMEN.
CHAPTER 46: Who am I? My part in the body.
Bible Reading:Romans 12:6 – 8 This passage lists the gifts that define our identity, or how we see and approach the world. They have also been referred to as “Gifts of the Father” or “Motivational Gifts.” The latter term was popularized in the 1980’s and ’90’s. The following is the list and examples:
Prophecy – Simeon and Anna Luke 2: 21 – 40, Acts 2:1 – 18, Acts 13:1-3, Acts 11:27 - 30
Ministry – Dorcas and Peter’s Mother in Law after she was healed Acts 9:36 - 40
Teaching - Paul to Priscilla and Aquila/ Phillip to the Ethiopian eunuch Acts 8:26 - 40
Exhortation – Word of … Heb. 13:22, Acts 13:15-42 (Paul) Acts 14:22
Giving – Philippians 4:10 – 13, Acts 2:44 – 47, Acts 4:34 – 37, Acts 10:31
Ruling – James as head of the church in Jerusalem, Stephen as deacon Acts 6:1 – 6, Acts 15: 5-23
Mercy – Jesus – Matthew 14:14, Luke 15:20
Today’s Story: Today’s story is about your identity in Christ as a part of His body. If you are looking to Him for your identity, you do not have to have an “identity crisis.” You can live a life of exciting discovery. How do you approach life? Why, and how often, do you do certain “works” for, and hopefully through, God? As we examine the previous gifts, look for yourself, both in your strengths and weaknesses. The list is longer and the Scripture references more extensive than can be done justice in a single writing. We will spend the next few devotionals covering them.
Verses to Ponder: Romans 12:6 - 8
Today’s Prayer: Dear Father, I have presented my body as a living sacrifice to You that I might truly fulfill Your “good, acceptable, and perfect will” for my life. Please help me to identify and fulfill with true humility and serious dedication my place in Your body. In Jesus’ Name. AMEN.
CHAPTER 47: Who am I? My part in the body. Prophecy.Bible Reading:I Peter 1:16 – 21 explains prophecy and its source in detail especially as it pertains to Scripture. Continue to read I Peter, and he explains the dangers of false prophecy. I John 4:1 – 6 warns us not to “believe every spirit.” True prophecy exalts Jesus, and true Christians recognize it.
Today’s Story: Today, we will examine the gift of prophecy, the first one mentioned in Romans 12:6 – 8. Everyone should participate in prophecy as is indicated in I Corinthians 14; however, it is not everyone’s primary raison d’etre or reason to be. Prophecy is being an accurate conduit to the people of God’s words and thoughts. It may deal with the present, future, or both. The prophet hears and/or sees, and then writes or speaks. The Book of Revelation is a great example of this. (Rev. 1:19) A powerful sermon, or a strong Word during the sermon, may be one. An inspired song is another one. One hymnwriter wrote, “Teach me some melodious sonnet, sung by flaming tongues above.” Accuracy is extremely important to a person who flows in this gift because he (or she) fears the Lord and has great respect for His words. Is this your primary gift or one of your stronger ones? It may help you to ask yourself the following questions: Is my main goal in life to accurately represent the Lord and His message to the people? Is getting the words right important to me? Are His Words like, “fire shut up in my bones,” like Jeremiah? Am I restless until and unless I have delivered His message? Is there a sense of release and relief when I have done so? When I am “in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day (or any day), as was John, do I often have a visitation from Him with a message? (song, poem, sermon, Word for someone or the church). Can this happen in any setting, not just church? Is accuracy more important to me than people’s feelings? Do they sometimes avoid me because of fear, sin, or a lack of mercy on my part?
Verses to Ponder: II Corinthians 12:2 - 6
Today’s Prayer: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, Oh Lord, my strength and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
CHAPTER 48: Who am I? My part in the body – Ministry and Giving.
Bible Reading: Acts 9:36 – 40, John 21:9 – 13, Acts 4:34 -35 Ministry – Dorcas made coats and other garments for the widows who were weeping and showing them to Peter before she was raised from the dead. One of my favorite examples occurs when Jesus cooked fish for the disciples. Giving-Acts 4:34 – 35 tells how in the early church people sold houses and lands and brought the money to the apostles to distribute to meet the needs of the people.
Today’s Story: Today, we are continuing the search for your primary identity in the body of Christ. We have all heard the term, seeing the world through “rose-colored glasses.” In a way that describes how we view the world through our primary gifting. In our last article, we talked about prophecy. In this session, we will examine the gifts of ministry and giving. Ministry, sometimes referred to as serving, is the meeting of the day to day needs of people. Dorcas, for instance, made clothes for the widows. I have friends who love to entertain. Their homes are welcoming, and their meals are delicious. Sometimes people work with ministries like the Salvation Army and Samaritan’s Purse to do the serving and are often found aiding practically during disasters. Giving enables these charities and churches to do ministry. Sometimes people give money and resources directly to individuals and sometimes through the work of others.
Verses to Ponder: James 2:15 - 20
Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, Let me be a wise and generous steward of the resources that I have been given. Let me always remember that everything I have, including my life, belongs to You. Let me hear Your Voice so that I know how, when, and how much to give and to whom. Let me give “with simplicity,” as the Scripture says and not a controlling spirit so that the true needs of those to whom you direct me to give can be met.
CHAPTER 49: Who am I? My part in the body – Teaching and Exhortation
Bible Reading: Acts 18:24 – 28 This Scripture passage shows the gifts of exhortation and teaching intertwine and operate best in consort with one another. Apollos was great at motivating people. He was “fervent in Spirit,” knew the Scriptures, was a diligent teacher, but knew only the Baptism of John. Along came Aquila and Priscilla using the gift of teaching and “expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” Don’t get haughty. We need to work together. It takes all of us to fulfill our mandate to spread the Gospel and be the body of Christ. “Not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think, but to think soberly as God has dealt to everyone the measure of faith.” Only of Jesus was it said, “the Spirit was given without measure unto Him.” As “faith without works is dead,” (James) so exhortation without teaching is incomplete, and teaching without exhortation is boring. “No man is an island.” We need one another. Teaching helps us to understand truths accurately through explanation and information. Exhortation encourages us to act upon the information we have been given. Today’s Story: Today, we are continuing the search for your primary identity in the body of Christ. Teachers want you to understand the deep truths of Scripture and the Kingdom of God. They love to do research, and a good teacher will help you to understand the Bible better as well as the cultural and historical context in which it was written. A good preacher who has this gift will show you things that you did not discover on your own. One with less skills may bore you to death by repetition or information overload. A teacher who also flows in exhortation will want you to do something with the information. An altar call is often given after a presentation of salvation truths where people can pray and demonstrate their belief in, and desire to follow Jesus. Exhorters are the “motivational speakers,” if you will, in the body of Christ. They want the message to help propel you forward in your Kingdom Walk. They aren’t content to have you understand the truth. To make an exhorter happy, you must do whatever you are being encouraged to do. Exhortation can become nagging or enabling if the exhorter does not know when to stop. As a natural example, I once practically drove the student to the library (in the old days before the Internet) before I realized it was time to give up. He just was not motivated enough.
Verses to Ponder: II Timothy 2:15 and Hebrews 12:1 - 2
Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, Let me be faithful to teach Your truths and exhort others to keep the faith and look to Jesus as the example of endurance and the “author and finisher of my faith.” Let me be obedient and grateful for any chastisement that You send my way, knowing that it is for my own good and out of Your love for me.
CHAPTER 50: Who am I? My part in the body – Ruling and Mercy
Bible Reading:Romans 12:8, Acts 6:1-15 , Acts 7: 54 – 60 and James 2: 14 - 26 The King James version uses the term “ruling.” This is not to imply someone who is a dictator or operates out of a controlling spirit. The terms “leader” and “administrator” apply here. The reference says that rulers should be “diligent.” No one wants to work for a sloth. The Bible says that people should show mercy with “cheerfulness.” Ruling – To organize people and resources to accomplish a task or run a ministry, group of people, business, etc. in an efficient manner. To “lead by example.” Mercy – To have compassion, empathy, and understand things from someone else’s point of view.
Today’s Story: William Booth used the gift of administration in founding the Salvation Army. He organized the “troops” based on the concept of ranks in an army. He combined the attribute of having mercy on the poor in meeting their practical needs with an intense spiritual emphasis on salvation and sanctification. One would like to believe he avoided the traps of operating in the flesh and/or seeing people as pawns. Stephen in the Bible was one of the deacons charged with the administration of meeting the practical needs of the widows. Even though that was a practical job, he was an intensely spiritual man who God used in the miraculous. He glorified God at his trial by His anointed speech and a face that appeared angelic. Subsequently, he honored God with his martyrdom. Mercy may express itself in serving or healing. In actuality, if one relates love to mercy, it should accompany any and/or all of the exercise of the gifts, even ruling. (Refer to I Corinthians13.) Jesus had compassion and healed the blind man and the sick of an area. He also fed the multitudes. Conversely, the disciples were going to send them away to buy food. It can result in comforting those, as in counseling. God comforts us, and we can comfort others. The Scripture says that cheerfulness should accompany mercy. At first that seems strange; however, any good counselor will tell you that “empathy,” not “sympathy,” is needed to be helpful. If the counselor descends into despair or “overidentification” with the counselee, he can no longer be objective enough to help. He may “weep” with those that “weep,” and yet be objective enough to provide God’s hope and path to an answer.
Verses to Ponder: Proverbs 3: 5 - 6
Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, If you call me to operate as a “ruler,” let me do it with a servant’s heart. If you call me to operate from a motivation of “mercy,” let me temper it with your wisdom and cheerfulness. Let me “in all my ways acknowledge You, that You might direct my paths.”
CHAPTER 51: Gifts of the Son to the Body
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:11 – 15 The Gifts of the Son are often referred to as the five-fold ministry gifts. While each member of the Body has gifts, these refer to those who are especially called to devote themselves to the work of the Lord as their primary focus. Books have been written on the subject, and today we will just give a brief overview.
Apostles- Lay the foundation and start works for the Lord. Paul called himself a “wise master builder” who laid a foundation of the message of salvation through faith in Christ and started churches. The twelve “apostles of the Lamb” were those Jesus called as disciples and used to establish His church. Because they are the first to establish a work, apostles often function in all the ministry gifts until others are available to carry forth the work.
Prophets- Follow in the footsteps of their Old Testament predecessors. Prophets hear from God and proclaim his message. Agabus was one of the prophets in the New Testament. He “…signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.” (Acts 11:27-30)
Evangelists – Preach the Good News of the Gospel of Salvation through Jesus Christ. Paul often functioned in this role prior to a local church being established. Phillip performed the duties of an evangelist in Samaria and later in the desert when he led the Ethiopian eunuch to salvation and subsequently baptized him. (Acts 8:5-8 and 26-40) Many modern evangelists would probably love to use Phillip’s means of transportation when he was through ministering to the Ethiopian eunuch.
Pastors – Oversee the care and feeding of those in the church. Often the term pastor/teacher is used; however, pastor/shepherd might be a more appropriate term. Large churches often have several pastors who fulfill different roles, such as teaching on weeknights, counselling, benevolence, administration, etc. Smaller churches may have lay people and/or deacons who do some of the needed duties or a poor, bedraggled pastor who is doing all the work, and maybe holding down a secular job. Depending on the pastor’s giftings, the role may look different; however, he must have a “pastor’s heart,” for the sheep. Pastors must see that the believers are properly instructed/taught to live a godly life both by teaching and example. Paul wrote to Timothy to instruct him in how to care for the church at Ephesus while also telling him to “do the work of an evangelist.” Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus have been referred to as “pastoral epistles.”
Teachers - study the Word intently and impart knowledge to the flock on God’s perspective as well as how He wants his people to live. They may also study the culture or history of the area concerning the Biblical text to provide a better understanding of the Scripture or topic under study. Teaching may or may not be the primary motivational gift of the senior pastor; however, it is his responsibility to see that the sheep in his care are properly fed. In a large church an associate or assistant pastor may do a lot of the teaching, for example, on a service other than the main Sunday morning services. Lay people may often participate in teaching as in teaching Sunday School classes or cell group meetings. The materials may be selected or prepared by someone gifting in teaching or the presenter. Paul did a great deal of teaching in his letters.
Today’s Story: A listing of well-known individuals whom God has used in the various offices since Biblical times may assist the reader in obtaining a clearer view of the operation of the gifts in today’s church. The following is a suggested list of such individuals: Apostles – William Booth, Founder of the Salvation Army and Loren Cunningham, Founder of YWAM. Prophets – David Wilkerson, who also functioned as an apostle in the founding of Teen Challenge and the Times Square Church and Keith Greene, who proclaimed God’s Word and message of repentance mightily in song and Word during his short time on the earth. Interestingly, though many proclaim themselves to be prophets, this writer had a difficult time making this list. It is not those who proclaim themselves to be prophets, but those to whom God has entrusted His Words of warning and revelation that are truly prophets. (See Jeremiah 23:16.) Evangelists – Billy Sunday and Billy Graham are two notable examples. There are many unsung heroes who function as evangelists, proclaiming the Word of God and calling people to repentance, salvation, and even being recipients of healing, miracles or Words of Knowledge. Pastors - Jim Cymbala and his wife who function as a team to pastor Brooklyn Tabernacle and Pastors Anthony and Mickey Mangun of the Pentecostals of Alexandria are great examples of pastors. There are many unknown heroes/pastors who are faithful to feed and care for those in their churches, be they big, small, or tiny. Teachers – David Uth, Senior Pastor of First Baptist of Orlando is a prime example of a pastor who is a teacher. Another example is Charles Stanley, Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, Georgia. Once again, there are many great and faithful teachers who are lesser known to man, but not to God. Even writers who fulfill their roles as teachers qualify for this designation.
Verse to Ponder: Acts 13:22 Today’s Prayer: (Song)From the song,
“That You Might Receive Glory,” by Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Tice
May my life fulfill Your plan Having favor with God and man. Doing good to the household of faith That You might receive glory.
CHAPTER 52: Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Bible Reading: I Corinthians 12:7 - 11 The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are often referred to as the manifestation gifts. To manifest is to make known, so these gifts function under the control of the Holy Spirit and make the existence and character of God better known. It says in the Scripture that “…the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” (Rev.19:10) Here is a list, divided by categories that are often utilized with examples from the Bible and the devotional. (Eyewitnesses to His Majesty)
Revelation Gifts: These are gifts that show us something.
Word of Wisdom – I Kings 3:25 Solomon offers to cut the baby in half. Week 25 – What about Buddha?
Word of Knowledge – John 1:48 Jesus tells Nathaniel he had seen him under the fig tree. Week 9 – Betsy’s Deliverance from Fear
Discerning of Spirits – Acts 8:23 Peter calls out Simon for being in the “…gall of bitterness and the bond of iniquity.” Week 40 - Ears to Hear: Part 4 – The Winners Inspiration Gifts: These are gifts that tell us something.
Tongues – Acts 2:4 – 6 The Holy Ghost gave the believers the ability to speak in the tongues of Jews from other nations who were in Jerusalem. Week 3 - The Mexicans Who Spoke Polish
Interpretation of Tongues – I Corinthians 14:26 - 28 Paul gives instruction about tongues and interpretation. Week 3 - The Mexicans Who Spoke Polish
Prophecy – The Book of Revelation is an example of Prophecy that occurred when “John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day.” (Rev.1:10) Week 20 – The Vision on the Freeway and “Glory Be to the Lamb”
Power Gifts: These are gifts that do something.
Miracles – John 2:1 – 11 Jesus turns the water into wine at the wedding, Week 33 – The Miracle of the Raggedy Ann’s and Andy’s
Healing – Acts 3:1 – 10 The lame man is healed at the gate of the temple through the ministry of Peter and John. Week 17 – Ty’s Mom Needs a Healing
Faith – Acts 14:8 – 10 Another lame man is healed after Paul perceived he had faith to be healed. Week 34 – Parting of the Clouds – God Rewards Peter’s Faith (Not his real name) These are just representative examples in the Bible and from the devotional.
Verse to Ponder: Hebrews 13:8
Today’s Prayer: (Song) “For the God of Today is the God of the Bible”By Elizabeth C. (Betsy) Tice
CHORUS: For the God of Today is the God of the Bible.
He wants to do what He’s done before.
Put Your trust in Him, and you will see it
Come to pass through faith in His Name.