Our life is a journey and we go through many seasons to test and mature us.

The Bible give us hope and peace when our world comes crashing down.

As we watch the horrors of war and violence on the news, we feel sadden
and sometimes afraid of the future.

In the days of Ezekiel the prophet, God was angry with his people because
they had walked away from him and worshipped false gods.

Ezekiel gave a stern warning from God…
Yea, I will cause men to walk upon you, even my people Israel;
and they shall possess thee, and thou shalt be their inheritance,
and thou shalt no more henceforth bereave them of men.
Ezekiel 36:12

God loved his people, but purposely sent the enemy to persecute
them, so they would repent and cry out to him in despair.

God said, I poured my fury upon them for the blood that they had shed upon the land,
and for their idols wherein they had polluted it: and I scattered them among the
heathen and they were dispersed through the countries: according to their way
and according to their doings I judged them. Ezekiel 36:18-19

Like a loving Father, he was angry, but also pitied them, because they
were his children.

God instructed Ezekiel to say…

But I had pity for mine holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the heathen,
whither they went. Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus said the Lord God; I do not this
for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among
the heathen whither ye went. And I will sanctify my great name which was profaned among
the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know
that I am the LORD, saith the Lord God, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.
Ezekiel 36:21-24

God had promised to give them a great land and bless them far above all people, but
was ashamed of their behavior toward one another. They embarrassed him in
front of the heathen, and it grieved him.

We see this vicious cycle of war and bloodshed happening our world today, and we
must cry out to God for mercy and deliverance.

We fight and war, but have not, because we refuse to ask the only one who
holds the power to help us.

God loved us so much that he sent his Son Jesus to die for our sins on the cross at
Calvary. In agony, as he bore the weight of our sins, he cried out to his Father,
Why have you forsaken me?

God allowed his Son to die to pay the penalty for our sins and on the third day
he rose from the grave conquering sin, death, and the powers of the devil.

Today you may be paralyzed with fear because of terrorists or an abusive
husband or parent. You may be suffering with a tormenting disease
or enslaved by an addiction like alcohol, cutting, pornography, or cocaine.

Beloved, God sent me to tell you how much he loves you.
He promises to never leave or forsake you.

He wants to gather you in his arms and restore the years the
enemy has stolen from you.

Let him sprinkle you with the blood of his Son and cleanse you from all
your sins.

He stands at the door of your heart knocking…

Will you open the door and let him love and heal you?

Give him your shattered dreams and broken heart.

The Bible says…
A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away
the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my
spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statues, and ye shall keep my judgments,
and do them. Ezekiel 36:26-27

As far as the east is from the west, he’ll forgive your sins and remember them
against you no more.

God says…
I will also save you from all your uncleanness: and I will call for the corn,
and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you. Ezekiel 36:29

You are a chosen generation. God has called you out of darkness
into the light.

Walk in the light of Jesus and let him guide and protect you.

Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins,
and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For this promise is unto you, and to your children,
and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Acts 2:38-39

Father in heaven,
We are so grateful for your amazing grace which is new every morning.
Forgive us for disobeying your commands and for not teaching them
to our children. We have slaughtered innocent people with war,
violence, and abortion. The anger and unforgiveness in our
stony hearts have blocked our prayers and brought your
hand of correction upon us. Thank you for loving us enough
to warn and chastise us for our rebellion. We invite you to
do surgery on our hearts. Give us new and pure hearts,
filled with love, compassion, and mercy. Wipe the slate
clean from our past and help us to begin this day new,
empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Ignite a holy fire in our world, to boldly preach and publish
your word with power. If you are for us, no one can stand
against us. We are strong, the word of God is in us, and
we have overcome the evil one. Take away all pride and
prejudice from us. We are all your children, the descendants
of Adam and Abraham. The blood of Jesus makes us one.
Unite us in faith and prayer. Heal the sick, mend the broken
hearts and families, take out of power the wicked, and confuse
the plots of our enemies.

Let the people come and find hope in you, the Creator of heaven
and earth. Only you can make the war and bloodshed to cease.
LORD, in your mercy, and for your name’s sake, hear and help.

We ask for healing and strength for all who are suffering from sickness,
disease, or depression. You have said, the prayer of faith will save the sick,
and you will raise them up. Whatever your will, we accept it, trusting
you know what’s best for us all. Help us to be faithful unto
death, where we will receive a crown of life.

Thank you for the rain and snow to nourish our land and for sunshine.
May your name be magnified in heaven and earth, so
all people will know that you are the one and only true God.

Bless our troops, our leaders, pastors, missionaries, and teachers.
Keep us safe from evil and temptation. Guide our path and
help us to complete our missions in life with excellence.

Carry this message to every nation, prison, school, tribe, and tongue.
Send laborers, translators, and prayer warriors into the harvest.
Bless Steve, and all our partners in the ministry. Give us a fresh vision
and help us to be men and women of honor and integrity. With you,
all things are possible.

In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen

O Give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the
hand of the enemy; and gathered them out of the lands, from the east,
and from the west, from the north, and from they south. They wandered in
the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. Hungry and
thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried unto the LORD in their
trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. Psalm 107:1-6

Your sister and servant of the LORD,
Valerie Rousseau

With rising food, energy, and gas prices, and the financial crisis throughout the world,
it often leaves us feeling helpless and afraid of the future.

In times like these we need to turn to God’s word, to find encouragement
and answers to help us face our fears and exchange them for faith.

The Bible is filled with stories about people who faced poverty
and adversity. God lovingly spared their lives and helped them
not to give in to depression and despair.

In 1 Kings 17 the Prophet Elijah had just been asked by God to deliver
a depressing message of doom to King Ahab, that there would be no
rain in the land.

God then told him to go and hide himself by the brook Cherith so he
could have fresh water to drink each day.

The LORD divinely commanded a raven to bring Elijah bread and meat
in the morning and at night.

Imagine what faith it took, to trust God for this divine provision and
eat food from a scavenger bird.

Elijah was all alone in the wilderness, with only God and a bird to keep him
company.

After a long season of drought, the brook dried up, and God told Elijah
to travel to Zarephath to the house of a widow and he would be
cared for there.

When Elijah found the widow woman, she was outside gathering sticks.

Elijah had to swallow his pride and asked this poor old woman for a drink
of water.

The woman was willing to be kind to this stranger, but as she went to get
him a drink, he then asked for a morsel of bread.

The woman was very poor and said, As the LORD your God lives, I don’t have
a cake, but only a handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse.

I was about to gather 2 sticks that I could make a meal for me and my son,
eat it, and die.

Elijah said to her, Fear not, go and do as I said, and make me a cake first,
bring it to me, and afterward make food for you and your son.

For thus says the LORD God of Israel, the barrel of meal and oil will not run
out until the day the LORD sends rain upon the earth.

The woman believed God and did as Elijah asked without grumbling,
doubting, or asking money from this stranger.

She and her son, Elijah ate for many days, even during a horrible season
of drought and famine in the land.

After a while, suddenly the woman’s son grew ill and died.

She became bitter with Elijah and thought God had brought
judgment upon her because of her sins.

Elijah took the boy up to the loft where he had been staying,
and laid him upon his bed.

Elijah cried out to God asking why he had brought evil
upon the woman and her son.

He then stretched himself upon the child 3 times and prayed for
God to breathe life back into the boy.

The LORD heard the voice of Elijah and the child revived.

When Elijah brought the boy down to his mother, she was
overjoyed and said, Now I know that you are a man of God
and the word of the LORD in your mouth is true.

We are so blessed to have the wonderful and encouraging
stories of scripture, to strengthen our faith when times
get tough.

We must remember, that God may bring seasons of trials
and hardship into our life, so we can witness and minister
to the needs of the poor and remind them of his love…
even when we’re hurting.

God didn’t want Elijah or the widow and her son to be
alone and depressed, so he united them during the
hard times, to test and strengthen their faith.

The LORD wants us to share our gifts and talents with others
and be a witness of his great and mighty power.

During seasons of heartache and fear, we sometimes would
like to dwell on our problems and feel sorry for ourselves,
but God shows us in his word, that when we give from
the heart, he will give to us.

Psalm 41:1 says…

Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord
will deliver him in time of trouble.

The Bible often speaks of God’s care for the weak, poor and needy
and of His blessing on those who share His concern. God wants our
generosity to reflect His own free giving. As He has blessed us we
should bless others.

Proverbs 14:31 reminds us…
He who oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker,
but that honoureth him that mercy on the poor.

God has a special concern for the poor. He insists that people who have material goods
should be generous with those who are needy. Providing for the poor is not just a suggestion
in the Bible; it is a command that may require a change in attitude.

He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD: and that
which he hath given will he pay him again. Proverbs 19:17

It is hard for human’s to understand the concept of giving, as lending to the
LORD. He is the one who repays us in many ways…the most important being
a softened heart, sensitive to the needs of others.

It is through giving, we are blessed and receive God’s joy and peace,
because we have not refused to lend the LORD our worldly possessions.
All things are HIS and we are merely the stewards He has loaned His goods to.

We are tested with these gifts of stewardship.

If we are faithful with little things, he can trust us with greater wealth and blessings.

We are blessed, not be rich…but to be a blessing to others.

King David wrote…The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the
fatherless and the widow. Psalm 146:9

Today you may be facing financial hardship, sickness, or adversity.

God loves you so much and has promised to never leave or forsake you.

The same God who provided for Elijah, the widow and her son, is well able
to help and heal you, if you only trust, pray, and believe.

King David wrote…The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want.

God knows if we’re hurting and no good thing will he withhold from
those who trust him.

We, like the widow may walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
but our loving Father will be with us to comfort and provide for all our needs.

Jesus said, In the world you will have trouble, but we can be of good cheer,
he has overcome the world.

One day soon, he will come back to get us, and take us to our heavenly mansion
in the sky…

He will dry every tear and there will be no more pain or sorrow.

Until that day, let’s be always waiting, watchful, and willingly
serve the LORD and others with gladness, knowing he is
a rewarder of those who diligently seek him.

All things are possible for those who believe.

Father, we thank you for joining us in friendship today, to study
your word and find hope and encouragement.

Many are struggling with sickness or financial problems.
You are the Great Physician and Provider of all our needs.
We ask you to lay your hands upon each one who is hurting
and make them whole. Provide jobs for all who are in need
and show us how to invest, spend, save, and give wisely,
so we can lend to many nations and not borrow.

Bless our President, vice-president, and leaders of government.
Help them to govern and rule according to your will. Instill in them a
desire to be men and women of honesty and integrity. Their hearts
are in your hands and we trust Jesus, the Prince of Peace to guide their
path and keep us safe from evil and temptation.

We love you and ask you to help us to minister to the needs of the
poor. May all who are in need receive hope, help, healing, employment,
and Jesus as their LORD and Savior. Help us to work together
in love, unity, and peace.

If you are for us, no one can stand against us.

Thank you for fixing the mail machine and for bringing Stephen home safely from
his mission trip.

In the Almighty name of Jesus your Son we pray.
Amen

Your sister and servant of the LORD,
Valerie Rousseau

Life is a journey, and along the way we make thousands of decisions that affect
our life positively or negatively. Especially in our teens many think their parents
are being overly possessive and we dream of having freedom to make our own choices.

The Bible is a book of wisdom from our heavenly Father; to help us learn from the mistakes
of others and understand his unconditional love, even we mess up BIG TIME!

Today let’s turn to Luke 15:11-32 and let the Holy Spirit fill us with comfort, strength, and peace.

Money and pleasure are blessings from God, but we must always be careful not to
allow them to become “gods” to us.

The Bible warns us…
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after,
they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with
many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10

Money in itself is not evil, but coveting and loving it above God and others is…

One day, when Jesus was mentoring his disciples, he told this parable
to illustrate the destructive power of money.

There was a man who had 2 sons.

The younger son wanted to travel and enjoy his life, so he urged his
father to give him his inheritance before he died.

The father gave him his portion and the young boy was overjoyed.

This was very unusual in those days, for usually the inheritance
was only given to children, after the father’s death.

He quickly left his father’s home and spent his days having fun
with riotous living.

When he had spent all of his inheritance, a famine broke out in the land.

He was suddenly hungry and destitute. His friends deserted him, since he
could no longer fund their fun and games.

A farmer had pity on him and gave him a job feeding his pigs.

This boy was a Jew, and Jews didn’t eat pork…so we see how truly desperate he was
for a job.

As he watched the pigs eat, his stomach growled and he began to
covet their food, but no one offered the young man anything to eat.

Suddenly he came to his senses and said,

How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare,
and I perish with hunger!

I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned
against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son:
make me as one of thy hired servants. Luke 15:17-19

He quickly began his journey back home, hoping his father would forgive him.

The father saw him coming down the road and quickly ran out to greet him.

Rich and distinguished men in that culture didn’t run…but this man didn’t care
what the neighbors thought about his behavior or that of his child.

He had compassion for his son and embraced and kissed him.

The boy said,
Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight,
and am no more worthy to be called thy son. Luke 15:21

The father was so overwhelmed and excited by his son’s repentant heart.

He called for his servant and said,

Bring the best robe and put it on him. Place a ring on his hands and shoes
on his feet. Bring a fatted calf and kill it. Let’s eat and be merry.

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost and is found. Luke 15:24

When the eldest brother returned from the fields, he heard music and dancing.

He asked one of the servants why his father had called for a celebration.

The servant said, Your brothers has come home and your father has
killed a calf and welcomed him home.

The brother was enraged and would not go into the house.

When his father heard he was upset, he went out to his son
and begged him to come in to the celebration, but he refused.

In anger he said, All these years I have served you and followed
your commands. You have never once honored me with a party,
so I could have fun with my friends.

Your son has wasted your money on prostitutes and evil living,
yet you have welcomed him back with open arms.

The father saw the pain in his son’s eyes and said,
Son, you are always with me and all that I have is yours.

It was right that we should be happy and celebrate; for your
brother was dead and is now alive. He was lost, and is found.

Sometimes we are like the prodigal son. We covet earthly wealth
and fun. Our heavenly Father blesses us with gifts and talents,
and we quickly run away from him, and waste our inheritance
on drugs, sex, and fulfilling our fantasies.

In love, God sometimes sends a famine or tragedy, to bring us
back to our senses.

In times of pain and sorrow, friends and family may desert or disappoint us.

Only then, do we hunger and thirst for the One who promises to never leave
or forsake us.

God saw the rebellion in man’s heart and sent his son Jesus to
die for our sins on the cross at Calvary.

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Luke 19:10

If we repent and return to him, he lovingly forgives us,
even though we are not worthy of his grace and mercy.

His Son’s death paid our sin debt in full.

He no longer sees us as sinners, but as sons and daughters.

Other times we behave like the eldest son. We see our loving
Father forgive and bless the unlovely or criminals,
and become jealous, bitter, and resentful.

Jesus wants us to love our brothers and sisters enough to
tell them about his free gift of salvation.

Mother Theresa once said, if you spend your time judging people,
you have no time to love them.

Each time a brother or sister returns to the flock, we are to rejoice and be thankful.

Jesus said,
I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner
that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which
need no repentance. Luke 15:7

Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels
of God over one sinner that repenteth. Luke 15:10

If you’ve lost your way, precious one, I pray you will come
home to the loving arms of your Father in heaven.

He loves you and is eagerly waiting for your return.

No matter what you have done, Jesus paid the price for your sins.

There is mercy and forgiveness, for all who will come to his throne
of grace, with a humble and repentant heart.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart,
O God, thou wilt not despise. Psalm 51:17

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting
life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world;
but that the world through him might be saved. John 3:16-17

Come home beloved, Come home!!!

O most merciful Father,

Softly as the gentle wind,

I hear you calling me, from a life of sin.

You bid the twisted torment cease.

Suddenly Your Holy Spirit floods my soul,

filling the empty hole inside my heart with inner peace.

Faith has overpowered my fears,

Casting out the uncleanness from within.

I no longer feel alone,

for You have taken control of my life

and given me a reason to survive.

Doubt and despair are driven into the dust.

Showers of love have fallen from heaven,

washing me with the blood of your Son, Jesus My Savior…

Cleansing and empowering me to be a vessel of light

to give glory to Your name.

Hold me tightly in Your sweet embrace.

Help me never to wander from You again.

Expectantly I wait for Your blessed return,

to guide me safely home.

We lift up prayers to you for all our brothers and sisters who are going through

a difficult season in their lives. Calm their fears and increase their faith.

Shower them with love, mercy, and compassion, so they will know how

beautiful and special they are. We ask you to bless them with beauty for their

ashes. Send them a word of encouragement, to brighten their day and help

them to cope.

In Jesus’ name we pray.

Amen

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13

Your sister and servant of the LORD,
Valerie Rousseau

The Bible is an awesome book to show us how God can take ordinary men, women, and teens and transform them into world changers and leaders.

God often uses the weak and foolish things of the world, to confound the wise.

We don’t have to have the right background or degree to be used by God, only a willing and obedient heart.

Today, let’s turn to Judges chapters 4-5 and see the amazing things God did to change history and deliver his people.

The land was filled with violence and corruption. The children of Israel refused to listen to and obey God’s laws, so he allowed their enemy, King Jabin of Canaan to terrorize them. The captain of the king’s army was Sisera, and they had 900 chariots of iron.

For 20 years they oppressed the children of Israel, and finally they came to their senses and cried out to God for help.

There was a woman named Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth who God called to judge his people.

She was a working mother, and would sit under a palm tree, listening to the children of Israel come to her for wise rulings over their disputes.

One day, God gave her a word of wisdom, so she called for a commander named Barak to take 10,000 men and lead the children of Israel out to battle against King Jabin’s army.

God had assured her, that if they would follow his command, they

would have victory and be delivered from the oppression of their

enemies.

Barak said, If you go with me, then I will go, but if not, then I won’t go.

Deborah rose to the challenge, and said…I will go, and the LORD will

deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman.

Deborah was not a trained soldier, but she trusted God to empower

her to lead her people.

She saw the 900 chariots of iron all around, but refused to cower in fear.

She said to Barak, get up, for this is the day which the LORD has delivered Sisera into your hand. Isn’t this the day, the LORD has gone out before you?

The battle was fierce, but the LORD filled Deborah and her men with

superior wisdom and power. The entire army of Sisera was killed with

the sword. Not one man was left except Sisera, who ran away in fear.

He fled on foot to the tent of a woman named Jael, the wife of Heber, because he thought there was peace between King Jabin and Heber’s family.

Jael ran out to greet Sisera and welcomed him into their tent. She said, don’t be afraid, and encouraged him to lay down and rest.

As Jael covered him with a blanket, Sisera began to feel safe and asked

for a little drink of water.

Jael opened a bottle of milk and gave a drink to this weary soldier.

Sisera told Jael to stand at the door of the tent and if anyone came

looking for him, to say he was not there.

When Sisera fell into a deep sleep, Jael took a tent peg and hammer

and drove the nail into Sisera’s temple, and he died.

Barak and his men had tracked Sisera to Jael’s home, and when they

arrived, Jael came out to meet them.

She said, Come and I will show you the man you are seeking.

Barak was amazed to see Sisesra laying in a pool of blood, killed

by a housewife.

God saw the willing and obedient hearts of Jael and Deborah

and used them a mighty soldiers to fight against the enemies

of his people.

Barak, could have been the one to lead the army, but was afraid

and deferred his leadership to a woman.

The hand of the children of Israel prospered, and prevailed against Jabin the king, and he was destroyed too.

Deborah and Barak praised the LORD and led the people in songs of

thanks and worship for giving them the victory.

Chapter 5 ends with Deborah saying…

So let all thine enemies perish, O LORD: but let them that love him be as the sun when he goeth forth in his might. And the land had rest 40 years. Judges 5:31

Our world today is filled with violence and evil…yet God is in control and is waiting for a few good men and women to lead his people to victory.

Before you were ever born, God knew you and had a plan and destiny for your life.

You are created in His image and have designer DNA in your genes.

Jeremiah 29:11-12 says…

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.

Beloved, today you may be in a foreign land fighting for freedom, or in a prison fighting to preserve your life from rape or gang violence. Perhaps you are a victim of incest or being abused by a parent or spouse.

Call out to the LORD and he will hear and answer you.

He loved you so much, he sent his only Son Jesus to die on the cross for

the sins of the world and take the punishment we deserve.

He wants no one to perish, but all to have the free gift of eternal life.

He knows how difficult it is to fight the battles of this world,

because he was despised and rejected by men.

Jesus taught us…Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

Matthew 5:44-45

If he is for you, no one can stand against you.

Prayer and faith are vital weapons of warfare. All things are possible for those who believe.

Jesus is standing at the door of your heart, waiting to take you into his

arms and give you strength, safety, and protection.

Pray for peace in our world, and ask God to show you how to be a world changer and leader for your people.

The same God who empowered housewife’s and mothers, like Deborah and Jael, can equip you to face the forces of evil and bring rest to you and your people.

Jesus said, In the world you will have trouble, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

He can chase away all your fears and fill you with faith, hope, and peace.

You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!

Father, how thankful we are for the inspiring stories of Jael and Deborah to show us how you can use ordinary people to become world changers and leaders of nations. Raise up godly men, women, and teens to bravely and courageously overcome the evil in this world, through your power and might. Govern and rule over us and lead us to

victory. If you are for us, no one can stand against us. In Jesus’ name we pray for mercy, strength, and peace for the world.

Amen

Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth. He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth…be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:8-10

Your sister and servant of the LORD,

Valerie Rousseau

For some time now, I’ve been going through a season of tests and trials. I don’t know the reason
for them all, but do know, God has a plan and it will all work our for good, because I love him.

God assures us in his word, that the trying of our faith works patience…but sometimes it is
frustrating and difficult to be patient in waiting for our breakthroughs.

Many of my friends are also experiencing health or financial concerns, and perhaps some of you are as well.

When we face difficulties in life, it is important to be honest with one another, and share our hearts, so we can
encourage and pray for one another.

As we read God’s words and see the heartache and pain others in the Bible experienced, we realize we’re not
alone in our pain and suffering.

It’s a part of life on this earth, and we must refuse to give up, even when life seems unfair or cruel.

There are days when I’m tempted to stop writing or serve God, but when this happens, I pray and
ask God for a word of encouragement, to help me.

He is our loving Father, and knows how hard this life can be, and never ceases to understand when we’re hurting.

He watched his son die on the cross, and cry out in agony, My God, Why have you forsaken me?

The Apostle Paul faced rejection, health concerns, and adversity during his ministry.

Even when he was locked away in a prison, beaten, or shipwrecked, he would take the time to write letters, sharing his heart,
and encouraging other who were hurting.

He wrote…For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.
1 Corinthians 16:9

With opportunity comes opposition. Satan is roaming around like a roaring lion, seeking
whom he may devour. He doesn’t want the word of God to go out to the lost, so he
often uses people or things to try to block our path.

We have the Bible to warn us, that it’s a set up, to get us upset, depressed, or discouraged.

Jesus told John in Revelation 12; there was war in heaven when Satan and his angels were
cast out to the earth. They hate God and his children, and are called the accuser of the
brethren. The trials and tests we face, are allowed by God to refine and strengthen our
faith. Don’t be surprised when it happens.

We overcome Satan and the evil in this world, by the blood of the Lamb…Our Saviour Jesus,
and the word of our testimony.

Today you may feel lost and alone. Perhaps your trusted friends or family have
turned against you.

Maybe you have some health concerns, or you’ve lost your job or home.

You are not alone precious one…

God loves you and longs to be your best friend.

He is never too busy or tired to listen to your prayers.

He has promised to never leave you or forsake you.

Often times he allows adversity to draw us closer to his side.

Isolation and rejection are sometimes part of the process.

His ultimate goal is to train his children to be fearless disciples;
who will carry his word to all nations of the world.

All who are his disciples will suffer persecution…but great blessings
come from adversity and rejection.

He loves us so much that he sent his son Jesus to die for our
sins of the cross at Calvary.

He wants no one to perish, but all to have the free gift of eternal life.

The same God who protected the Apostle Paul and many faithful disciples over the years,
is available to help and protect you.

He’s standing at the door of your heart whispering softly…

Fear not beloved…

I see your tears and want to help you.

David wrote…
When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back:
this I know; for God is for me.
Psalm 56:9

You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

Give him your heart today…

If he is for you…no one can be against you!

Merciful Father,
How grateful we are for your word and the power to conquer
of enemies in the name of Jesus. If you are for us, no one
can stand against us.

Thank you for unblocking the path for us to share your words
with the nations. When we cry to you, our enemies turn back,
for you are the Almighty God, Our heavenly Father, and Jesus,
your Son is the Prince of Peace. Great is your Power and
Your mercy is new every morning.

Forgive us for worry, doubt, fear, and anxiety about the future.
You are in complete control of each minute of our day and
we know all things will work out for good, because you love
us.

Father we lift up all who are suffering from adversity, illness, or addictive spirits.
Lift the depression, sickness, addictions, and disease from our bodies and restore
us to health…never the less, not our will, but thine be done. Open our eyes to
see any sin or friendship, that is blocking our breakthroughs. You are our
great physician and healer.

Father we lift up prayers for the men and women in prison. Give them compassionate
and godly people to mentor and teach them your laws, mercy, and grace. Send laborers
to help in prison outreach.

Be with our leaders, soldiers, pastors, and teachers. Guide them
and protect them, as only you can. Confuse the plots of the wicked,
and put an end to child abuse, pornography, incest, rape, murder,
and homosexuality. Bind the forces of evil and place them in the
Almighty hands of Jesus our Saviour and King.

Father, thank you for Steve and all our partners in the ministry. Guide our steps each day,
and show us how to reach more people for Christ, and give you glory in all we do. Enable
Steve to fix the mail machine, so we can share the devotions and make disciples of all nations.

Thank you LORD for Your divine favor upon us each day and for
abundantly providing for all our needs.

In Jesus’ name we pray.

Amen, and amen!

Stand Up And Witness

The world needs proof…we’ve been transformed.

To see we’re different…and won’t conform

That we’re not tormented by life’s trials.

Because we know, we are God’s child.

So many souls are lost each day.

Because we’re ashamed to confess His name.

Tell others of your trust in Him…

So they can be released from sin.

For evil can be overcome.

God loved us so…he sent His Son.

His blood has cleansed us from our sins.

True freedom is…to depend on Him.

So spread the news and set lives free.

In Jesus, we have victory!

He crushed all power, to hold us back.

Confession and faith is all we lack.

Stand up and witness, in His name.

Encourage others…to do the same.

Our silence allows Satan to rule.

Your voice can be your greatest tool!

Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his

Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our

God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word

of their testimony: and they loved not their lives unto the death. Rev. 12:10-11

Your sister and servant of the LORD,
Valerie Rousseau

God has this wonderful way of joining others in prayers and faith when they’re hurting,
if we only will submit our days and lives to him.

He often lets us go through adversity, so then we can help others who are hurting,
and give them the comfort and guidance they need to survive and thrive too.

A while back God led a sister to me, who was suffering from verbal and physical
abuse. She was angry and bitter about her husband and had vowed to leave him
as soon as she could find a place to stay.

Over the years, I’ve learned it’s not wise to judge a situation by only listening to
the side of one party in a dispute…so I began questioning her about what caused
her marriage to deteriorate to this point, since they had been married almost 40 years.

She tearfully told me that her husband resented all the time she spent at church on various
committees and volunteer work.

She would often come home after 9 or 10 p.m. at night, and he became suspicious and bitter.

Because she was overcommitted and her life was out of balance, she would complain to him
that she was too busy to do things around the house, like cook him breakfast or lunch, or keep
the house clean and orderly.

She spent hours on the phone complaining to others about her husband, which this
caused him to become angry about her wasting time and his hard earned money.

Most times when he would suggest they take a walk or go out, she would say she was too
busy, so he spent his alone time going out to drink with friends to find companionship.

When I suggested to her that she cut back on her commitments, she was surprised that
I would suggest such a thing.

She told me she had confided in many other women, and even those from church laughed
and made light of the situation. The said, our husbands complain too, but that’s just men.

She loved her husband, but felt torn and did not want to let her church family down by
resigning from her commitments.

We spent quite a few hours visiting and in prayer, and I told her not to give up on her
marriage.

I encouraged her to give up her commitments at church and make God and her marriage
the #1 priority in her life right now.

I explained that God has commanded us to be people of prayer, not only for ourselves,
but for those in authority over us.

Women are asked to submit to their husbands, respect them, and pray for them.

The Bible says…Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church:
and he is the savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ,
so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Ephesians 5:22-24

Let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself: and the wife see
that she reverence her husband. Ephesians 5:33

Godly women are failing their responsibility to their marriage and children if
they refuse to submit to the authority of their husbands.

My heart breaks as I remember the years I spent going to church alone,
because I was not a godly example to my husband.

If we resent and disrespect them, they don’t see the love of Christ and
don’t want anything to do with God or the church.

God’s word gives us wonderful words of wisdom to heal and restore
the broken areas of our life, if we will submit to his authority and
those over us.

Husbands are the head of the home, and we must do everything possible
to be godly helpers and encouragers to them.

I read once that the #1 thing that pleases a man is to come home to domestic tranquility.
They will earn approximately 20% more if a wife is loving and supportive to him
and he knows he’s coming home to a place of peace.

We as women are not only to be homemakers, but peacemakers for our family.

We are to teach the younger women to be chaste keepers of the home, to love
their children and be a godly wife in word and deed.

What God has joined together, let no man put asunder. This means we must
never encourage a friend or family member to leave their spouse. It is our
responsibility and duty to point them to God’s word and do everything possible
to help them to be reconciled and healed.

Today you may be contemplating leaving your spouse because your home seems
like a war zone.

God loves you beloved, and sees the pain and despair in your heart.

Before you were formed in the womb, he knew what you would look
like and prepared a plan for your life.

I urge you to stop running from your pain, and run to your Saviour.

He alone can make you whole.
He alone can give you peace.

Pray for those in authority over you and submit to them as you would to the LORD.
If you are overcommitted to church or work, listen to your husband and prune out
of your schedule anything or anyone who is urging you to be disrespectful to your
husband.

Stop complaining and criticizing your husband and start praying for God to restore
the shattered pieces of your life.

Cry out to Jesus and let him cover you with his blanket of love.
Offer your sins to him and watch him transform your life into
something meaningful and beautiful.

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart,
all ye that hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:24

Father we thank you for your word to give us hope and encouragement when
our lives are in ruins.

Father be with all the men and women who are in troubled marriages.
Give them wisdom and godly friends who will pray and encourage them
in their pain. We give you the shattered pieces of their hearts and
ask you to supernaturally mend and heal them.

If our ways are right with you, you make even our enemies to be at peace with us.
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

In Jesus blessed name we pray.
Amen

Your sister and servant of the LORD Jesus,
Valerie Rousseau

During our lifetime, we sometimes suffer with seasons of sickness, depression, or adversity for us or someone we love.

We often get discouraged and wonder what in the world is going on.

In the Bible, we see that God showed us miraculous healing at times, but some people went for
months or years before their breakthroughs came.

When God first gave the children of Israel the commandments he promised if they obeyed him…

Deuteronomy 7:15
And the LORD will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee.

Exodus 23:25
And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.

He also warned that if they would not obey…

Deuteronomy 28:61
Also every sickness, and every plague, which is not written in the book of this law, them will the LORD bring upon thee, until thou be destroyed.

Since the first sin in the Garden of Eden by Adam and Eve, man has had to deal with sickness and death.

God doesn’t want his children to live under the cloud of fear, so he left us his word to calm, comfort, and correct us each day.

As we spend time in His word, he gives us valuable insight on how to spend our time, money, and what his plans are for our future.

King David, a man after God’s own heart often felt fear and depression.

God used him greatly to write many of the wonderful Psalms. As we read them, we see there is nothing wrong with
feeling fearful, but when we do, we have to ask God to replace the spirit of fear with faith.

David encouraged himself and us when he wrote…

Psalm 41:2-4

The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.

The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.

I said, LORD, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee.

David realized he and all people are sinners and we need to ask God to examine our hearts and show us any areas of

our life where we are out of his will. As he shows us our sins, we can repent and trust that God will forgive, help, and sustain us.

There are times when God allows us to be sick, so we learn to slow down and listen more carefully to his voice.

As we read the book of Job we understand that there may be times God allows us to be tested, and gives satan

permission to bring adversity, for a season, to show his glory through us and strengthen our faith.

Because Job remained faithful, prayed for his friends who judged him, and trusted God, he was restored double for his trouble.

God is not a respecter of persons, and if we respond in faith and pray, we too will find comfort

and hope in times of trouble.

God loves us so much he sent his son Jesus to earth, to bear our sins and carry our sorrows.

As he traveled around during the 3 1/2 years of his ministry the Bible says…

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

Matthew 8:17
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.

At the end of his life, God allowed him to suffer and die for our sins on the cross. He knows how much we are hurting because

he bore the pain of the whole world in his body.

In agony he cried out, My God why have you forsaken me?

Being human like us, he asked his Father in the Garden of Gethsemane if the cup of suffering could be removed…

but ended his prayer…not my will, but yours be done.

When we pray like this, we can rest assured that if he chooses not to remove the suffering, he will give us the strength

to go through it victorious.

God raised Jesus from the grave conquering sin, death, and the powers of the devil.

Paul wrote that he was given a thorn in the flesh and prayed to God 3 times for it to be

removed, but God said, my strength is made perfect in weakness. God allowed him

to have some type of tormenting ailment, so he would not be puffed up in pride because

of the great revelations and miracles he performed.

During extreme times of adversity, Paul wrote over 1/2 of the New Testament and never

gave up hope. He was a faithful mentor and pastor to many, and as we read his inspirational

testimonies, we realize if God helped Paul, he will help us too.

If we call upon God in our day of trouble, he will deliver us, and in thankfulness, should glorify him

with our words, time, and testimony.

Jesus gave his disciples and us power and the ability to pray in his name, to fight against unclean spirits and sicknesses.

The Bible says…
Matthew 10:1
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.

God wants us to use this power to fight against fear and the evil powers of satan.

When we ignore God’s words and don’t pray we often become depressed and hopeless.

The Bible says…

Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

God knows each day we will hear things that make us afraid, but if we use the weapon

of his word, we can fight the fears and be powerful disciples to help, heal, and encourage others.

Jesus last command to his disciples and us was to go into all the world and preach the Gospel…

Mark 16:17-19

And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

When we teach others about God and his powerful Son, we create a great army of believers who will not be overcome with evil…

but can overcome evil with good.

James the brother of Jesus wrote…

James 5:14-16

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:

And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

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

Beloved today you may be suffering from sickness, or filled with fear about your financial future.

You may have lost your home, job, health, or family. You’ve lost your hope…but God sent me to give

you a message…

Isaiah 41:10
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

He loves you and promises to never leave or forsake you.

Lay your fears at his feet and worship the LORD.

Isaiah 41:13
For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

Trust Him precious one.

Merciful Father,

Thank you for this beautiful day and for your word to give us comfort, hope, guidance,

and strength. Your word says, you have not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love,

and a sound mind. We lay our fears at your feet and worship you! We love you and

thank you for sending Jesus to die for our sins and take the punishment we deserve.

He bore our sicknesses and diseases on the cross. By his stripes, we are healed.

Help us to spend our day meditating on good and positive thoughts. As you bring

people across our path who are fearful, give us the words to uplift and encourage them

daily. We are your ambassadors and anointed sons and daughters, to carry your word

to all nations. Show us how to spend our time, gifts, and talents to give you glory

and lead souls to faith in Jesus. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens

us. In His name we pray and ask it. Amen

Your sister and servant of the LORD,

Valerie Rousseau

During our life, we will go through seasons where our faith is tested, and
we doubt whether God is listening or hears our prayers.

We pray and pray, but he seems distant and silent.

Our world may be falling apart, and we are discouraged when no one understands
how we feel.

Daniel was given the privilege of writing about the visions God gave him,
and the troubles he experienced, to help us see that God does hear us,
but delays may be part of the process.

Daniel had been taken captive in his teens, and yet God used him greatly
to show his power to an ungodly king and his nation.

(Today’s devotion is from Daniel 10)

O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong,
yea, be strong. Daniel 10:19

In the 3rd year of Cyrus, king of Persia, God sent Daniel a vision.

He had been grieved over the sins of the people and showed his remorse
to the LORD by fasting and mourning 3 full weeks. During this time
he did nothing enjoyable to give himself pleasure.

On the 24th day of the month, he was beside the great river of Hiddekel.

He lifted his eyes and saw a man clothed in linen and gold. His body had
a blue-green color like a precious stone, his facial appearance was
as lightning, his eyes like lamps of fire, his arms and feet were the color
of polished brass and his voice was thundering, as if a multitude
were speaking.

Daniel was with some companions, when the vision appeared.

The earth quaked and his friends ran away in fear. Daniel alone saw the vision.

The vision terrified Daniel and he had no strength in him.

When the voice spoke, he was deep in sleep with his face to the ground.

A hand touched him and set him upon his knees and the palms of his hands.

The man said…O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words
that I speak to you and stand up. Daniel obeyed the man and stood
trembling in fear.

The voice said…Fear not, Daniel: from the first day you set your
heart to understand and to deny yourself before God, your words
were heard. I have come because of your prayers.

The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me 21 days, but Michael,
one of the chief princes came to help me, and I remained with the
king of Persia.

Now, I have come to make you understand what shall happen to people
in the future; for the vision is for many days.

Upon hearing his voice, Daniel bowed down to the ground and was
speechless.

Suddenly, a man similar to the sons of men, touched his lips.
Daniel’s voice returned and he said…

O my lord, the vision brings me sorrow and has taken my strength.

How can the servant of the Lord, speak when there is no breath
or strength in me.

One who looked like a man, touched him and said…

O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee,
be strong, yea, be strong. Daniel 10:19

Daniel’s strength returned and he said, let my lord speak.

The man said, Do you know why I have come to you? I will now return to fight
with the prince of Persia; and when I am gone, the prince of Grecia will come.

I have showed you what is noted in the scripture of truth. There is
none who strengthens himself with me in these things,
but Michael your prince.

Daniel was greatly loved by God and he did not want him to
be afraid or unprepared when he saw kings rise and fall
in the future.

God honored Daniel’s remorse and fasting for his people.

From the minute Daniel chose to deny himself, fast, and pray…
God sent his angel to speak with him…but he fought against
the powers of darkness and evil 21 days.

God intervened and sent Michael, a powerful angel to
strengthen and protect Daniel.

Ephesians 6 says we must arm ourselves for battle, against the forces of evil.
We are to put on the whole armor of God so we may stand against the
angels of the devil.

Daniel was protected and prepared for the events of the future…
because he sought the LORD above all else. This preparation
comforted and sustained him through his seasons of trials
and adversity.

Three of the angels mentioned by name in the scriptures are…

Gabriel, which means the mighty one of God.

Michael, who is God’s super angel of war.
When you hear his name mentioned in scripture, war soon followed.

The angel named Lucifer, was the one who rebelled against God…
who is also called Satan, or the devil.

In the book of Revelation 12…Jesus spoke to
John about the end times…he warned in vs. 7…

And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon;
and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not: neither was their place
found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent,
called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into
the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

Jesus wanted to warn us about the future; so we would be able to prepare.
Our mission in life, is to rescue lost souls from the clutches of Satan and evil.
The fires of hell will torment all who reject the LORD Jesus as
their Saviour, for eternity.

Jesus loved you so much beloved, he was willing to die for your sins.
He stands at the door of your heart knocking, with arms stretched open
wide to welcome you into his family.

The world seems troubling at times …but with Jesus and his
angels on your side…you never have to live in fear of the future.

If He is for you, no one can stand against you.

Heavenly Father,
Holy is Your name…

Thank you for preserving for us, the inspiring scriptures of Daniel, to show
us you do indeed hear our prayers and answer them.

Thank you for sending angels to guard and protect us from the forces of evil,
and warn us from danger.

Cast out the spirit of fear and depression in each person who
reads or hears this message.

Forgive our sins and help us to put on the garment of
praise, to replace the spirit of heaviness in our hearts.

Thank you for giving us the spirit of power, love, and
the mind of Christ.

Arm us with the helmet of salvation, the shoes of peace,
the sword of the Lord, the shield of faith, and the robe
of righteousness to cover and cleanse us from all
our sins.

Thank you for your patience and mercy. Renew our
strength like the eagle, so we may run and not be
weary, and walk and not faint. We can do all
things through Christ who strengthens us.

We offer to you the sacrifice of joy and praise your
holy name. You have redeemed us from the hand
of the enemy. You sent your word and delivered
us from all our destructions.

We ask you to heal the sick, mend the broken hearts
and homes, comfort those who mourn, and defend
the innocent and unborn.

Ignite in us a spirit of love and a desire to preach
and publish your words with power.

Thank you LORD for bountiful rains, abundant crops, and your safety
and protection.

We leave all these requests in your hands, and thank you in advance for
hearing and answering our prayers. May your will alone be done in heaven
and earth.

In Jesus’ name we pray.

Amen

Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God,
and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down,

which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him

by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony: and they loved

not their lives unto the death. Revelation 12:10-11

Your sister and servant of the LORD,

Valerie Rousseau

In the U.S. and many parts of the world people are in the process of electing new leaders
for their nations.

One issue that is vitally important is abortion. It may be legal in
many countries, but is not according to God’s will.

God wants us to stand up for the rights of those who cannot speak for themselves,
but as Christians, it is important to use scripture as a tool to explain why we feel
the way we do.

The word of God is powerful and sharper than any 2 edged sword.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, sharing stories in the Bible to others with a different viewpoint,
can change their hearts one by one, even when the laws in our land are unjust or controversial.

Each person is created by God from conception and has a plan and purpose for their life.

To abort that life, just because it’s not convenient or unwanted is a sin against God for
the Bible clearly states…

You shall not kill!
Deuteronomy 5:17

As we study scripture, we see that killing children was something that people did
because of hate, prejudice, and fear of other races.

Many years ago, there rose up a king in Egypt who hated the children of Israel,
God’s chosen people.

God had multiplied their numbers and the king began to fear them.

The king said to his people, the children of Israel outnumber us and
are stronger. Before they grow too large and cause a revolt, let’s
afflict them with hard labor.

He made them slaves and set taskmasters over them to oppress them greatly.
They built for Pharaoh the treasure cities Pithom and Raamses.

But the more they afflicted them, the more God multiplied their numbers.

The Egyptians made the children of Israel’s lives miserable, and
they worked as brickmakers and in the fields.

The king of Egypt called 2 women who were mid-wives named
Shiphrah and Puah. He said to them…When the Hebrew
woman are about to give birth on the birthing stools, if
the child is a boy, kill it…but if it is a daughter, let it live.

The midwives loved and feared God more than the king, so they did
not do as he commanded, and saved the baby boys.

For this is the love of God that we keep his commandments: and his
commandments are not grievous. 1 John 5:3

When the king heard this, he called the midwives and said,
Why have you disobeyed me and let the boy children live?

The midwives said to the Pharaoh, the Hebrew women are not like
Egyptian women…they are lively, they give birth before the
midwives even get there.

Godly women should be the liveliest people on the planet. They love
God and the privilege of bearing children. They will do anything possible
to protect the rights of children and the unborn.

God was pleased with Shiphrah and Puah. They risked their lives to save the unborn…
and were rewarded by God for their obedience and compassion.

…because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
Exodus 1:21

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us:
and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 1 John 3:16

God loved his children, but because of their disobedience, they
were sold into the hand of a wicked king. God chose 2 Egyptian
women to stand up against the king. They bravely disobeyed
the order to kill children, and God blessed them with houses.

In many parts of the world, it is considered legal to kill babies.
Thousands of babies die each year because people have forgotten
God’s command…

You shall not kill!
Deuteronomy 5:17

God’s gift to mankind is life. You shall not kill is God’s 5th commandment.
It means that we should fear and love God so much, that we would
not hurt or harm another one of God’s children in his body. We are
to help, support, and defend all men, women and children in every
physical or emotional need.

Each week we witness killing by people who do not know of God’s laws or love.
Our nation and world have begun to pray for peace and unity among all people
whom God created.

Abortion is perhaps one of the most dramatic examples of a situation,
where something is legal, but very much a sin against God.

We must always obey God’s laws rather than man’s, if they contradict.

It is frightening to see how clouded our judgment has become in society today.

Many evil people, like the Pharaoh in Egypt, hate God’s children and
fear they will overpower them. Like wolves in sheep’s clothing, they lure
people into abortion clinics to kill their children by poking a metal rod into
their brain.

They go into schools offering sex education, condoms, and birth control pills to
encourage young people to have sex outside the safe borders of God’s protection…

hoping you will listen to their lies, and will become a partner in their plans to
kill children…or will become infected with a disease yourself and loose
your life prematurely to AIDS or a sexually transmitted disease.

Our hearts have become so selfish and hardened, that many are trying to create
babies unnaturally, so they can kill them and use their stem cells for research.

God forbids us to take the life of another person by murder, abortion, euthanasia, or
by taking our own life in suicide.

Each child is precious and special to God. Every man, woman, and child, has a plan and
mission for their life…but satan and his evil followers want us to believe
his lies and abort God’s divine destiny.

The Bible says…

Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.
I ordained you a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5

When John the Baptist was in the womb of his mother, Elizabeth, the scripture says he
lept, as he heard and acknowledged hearing the news that Mary was pregnant with
Jesus the Savior. (Luke 1:41-44)

Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in
Your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

God sees even the unborn child and writes their name in His book of remembrance.

When Mary was engaged to Joseph to be married, God chose to use her as the chosen vessel,
to carry the Savior of the world. How tragic it would have been, if she had chosen to abort
our Savior, just because it was messing up her wedding plans.

Even though she was a virgin, she probably suffered criticism and ridicule from people
who didn’t believe that God had divinely conceived this child by the Holy Spirit.
She submitted her body as a living sacrifice to God. Bearing and raising a child
was not an inconvenience, but an honor.

With technology changing, many people are wanting to kill severely handicapped,
helpless, or old people. God has breathed life into each one of us and it is only
by his hand, that life should be ended.

He Himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.
Acts 17:25

See not that I Myself am He. There is no god besides Me.
I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal,
and no one can deliver out of My hand. Deuteronomy 32:39

Our own life is a gift of God to be ended only by Him.

The Bible says…

There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes,
a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood. Proverbs 6:16-17

God commands in his word…

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who
are destitute. Proverbs 31:8

God forbids us to hurt or harm anyone physically, or do anything which may destroy,
shorten, or make their life bitter….like torture, rape, incest, or abuse.

We know we have passed from death to life, when we love one another.

God is looking for a new generation of godly men and women to
raise his children and become loving parents.

We need to preach and publish God’s commands, so we are not
overcome with evil…but can overcome evil with good.

Will you stand in the gap and protect the rights of the helpless
and unborn?

Will you deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow where He leads?

Please unite with us in prayer…

Heavenly Father,
Holy is Your name…

Thank you for the gift of this beautiful day which you have made.
Thank you for fearfully and wonderfully making me and all people
on this earth. Forgive us LORD, for not loving others as you
love us. Forgive us for the sin of abortion, abuse, neglect, and
assisted suicide. Forgive us for being callused and insensitive to
the needs and feelings of others. Preserve and protect the
sanctity of life and marriage.

Cleanse our hearts and minds. Infuse us with Your love and the
power of the Holy Spirit. Help us to unite as a nation and world
in prayer, so that You can change the hearts of our leaders and
all who are still blinded by unbelief and hatred.

In and through Your power we shall do valiantly for it is You who
can tread down the enemies of hatred and violence.

We pray for all people who are being killed or persecuted for their
faith in You as LORD and Savior. Strengthen and protect them from
the plots of evil.

LORD, please open the hearts of all government leaders to know and
do Your will. Uproot and take out of power the wicked. Overturn the
unrighteous laws and bring peace to our world.

You are a God of mercy and compassion. Fill us with the
Spirit of love, so hatred and violence will be ended.

Come LORD JESUS, into our lives and change us
by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT!

Encourage us, so we may encourage others in their time of need.

We lift up prayers to you for all who are suffering from sickness, disease, or adversity.
Father, we come to You for help in our time of trials and struggles. Cast out sickness, depression,
confusion, addictions, and disease from Your servants. Strengthen and protect them. We
believe that by Jesus stripes…they are healed… never the less, not our will, but yours be done.

We pray for Your word to reach all nations, so you will return soon and we can all be
with you in heaven…where there will be no more pain or sorrow.

We lift up prayers to you for Sister Phanice in Kenya. Please bring financial
aid for her work in the ministry, for Bibles to teach, and for food and educational
costs for the children under her care. You are the God of love and have promised to
provide all our needs. We know not one of your good promises has ever failed.

Father we’ve been experiencing problems with the mail machine. Please
fix this problem and send this message to ever person on the planet.
Help Steve to manage his time wisely and send people to help him
create a beautiful site where we can preach and publish your
word rapidly and with power. Help us to set the captives free
and put an end to hate, prejudice, and evil.

Father we ask for translators to expand the ministry according to your will. Bless the seeds
we have sown to reap a bountiful harvest of souls and prosperity for
the ministry.

We release these prayers to You and trust You to meet each and
every need, according to YOUR will and divine plan for our lives.

Your word says if we ask anything according to Your will, You will
hear and answer our prayers. We will wait patiently and expectantly
for Your loving and divine intervention on our behalf.

LORD, in YOUR mercy hear our prayers…

In Jesus’ name we pray.

Amen

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according
to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we
know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. 1 John 5:14-15

Your sister and servant of the LORD,
Valerie Rousseau

The Bible is a wonderful book, filled with inspiration and divine wisdom.

By reading it, we can become wiser than our enemies, and avoid numerous
pitfalls in life.

Many people write books or preach about the Bible, but are they all really
sent from God?

In various parts of the world there are politicians running for office, who
profess to be Christians, but when we hear them speak mean and unkind
things about one another, or the current leaders in office, one would wonder….

The Bible tells us to respect our leaders and not to speak evil about them.

It also teaches us that a man reaps what he sows.

Remember…If we throw dirt, we’re likely to get dirty ourselves.

Jesus taught us to treat others like we would like to be treated…

If a politician mocks and belittles the current president, even if he wins the election…
he’s likely to be treated with disrespect and contempt in his administration.

We are warned in God’s word to test the spirits to see if they are from Him.

The Apostle Paul spent much of his time writing letters to the churches
so they would not be lead astray by false prophets and wrong doctrine.

He wrote to young Timothy…

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves,
covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural
affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors,
heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness,
but denying the power, thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep
into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
2 Timothy 3:1-7

People in our world today are abusing the right to free speech and spreading all
kinds of lies about God, the Bible, and Jesus.

They also feel it’s their right to post evil and hateful things about others
on blogs or websites and destroy others lives and reputations.

Recently a young woman was so distraught about horrible things that were
said about her on a popular web site, that she took her own life.

There are some parts of our life that are meant to be private, between family and God.

With social media sites playing a large role in many people’s lives…be careful that you don’t
expose too much and set yourself up for heartache and pain.

Maybe all of your friends are on Facebook, Twitter, and U-Tube..but that doesn’t mean you
have to, to be happy.

I recently heard of a person who was offered a 6 figure salary, but after the employer saw
what they had posted on Facebook, they withdrew the offer for employment.

How tragic that a photo or word spoken in haste, could haunt you for years or block your blessings.

Remember also, there may be many people in the world with the same name, so don’t always be too quick
to believe everything you read or see posted about someone, or participate in spreading gossip or slander.

Paul wrote to Timothy…All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine,
for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect,
thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Beloved, many of you will be going through times of testing and trials to test your faith…

Be wise and be warned.
When teachers, classmates, or even some church leaders try to lead you astray…
pray that you will not be led down the broad path that leads to destruction.

It is vitally important to read your Bible each day, so the Holy Spirit can protect you
from the plots of the wicked one.

I remember years ago, I was attending a Bible study at a church near my home.
I was lonely and very depressed at the time. I desperately needed answers
and a friend.

Satan knew I was in a vulnerable state, and the pastor of the church began to
tell us that the Bible was not true and all kinds of false doctrine.

As I listened to him speak, I was deeply grieved in the spirit and began to weep.

Being a woman, I didn’t want to be disrespectful to a pastor, but as he continued
to teach, I began to share what God’s word said.

He told me the Bible was not completely accurate, and would not listen to
reason.

I prayed silently, LORD, what do you want me to do, and he told me to
get up and run from this false teaching.

I got out of that church as fast as I could and never went back.

The pastor called me later, and tried to convince me of my error, but
I knew the truth of God’s word and would not listen to him.

Precious one, Jesus said, if you continue in my word, you will know the
truth and the truth will set you free.

He is the way, the truth, and the light. No one comes to the Father but by
him.

Perhaps today you are being persecuted or mocked for your faith.

Stand strong, and stand up for Jesus.

God has chosen you to be his witnesses. Before you were ever formed
in the womb he knew you and had a plan for your life.

You are destined to be a world changer and a light in a darkened world.

If we confess him before me, Jesus will confess us before our Father in heaven,
but if we deny him, he will deny us.

By this will all men know we are his disciples, if we love one another.

Beloved, don’t be drawn into the traps of satan by going on sites that post
mean or unkind things about God, the Bible and others.

God asks us to be holy, for he is holy.

Jesus understands how much it hurts when people mock or ridicule us.

He was beaten, mocked, spit upon, and crucified for our sins on the cross.

He cried out to his Father, why have you forsaken me?

He prayed for his enemies and submitted to the will of the Father.

You too will be asked to do some difficult things at times.

God will enable and empower you, if you only pray and ask for his help.

You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!

Father we ask you to be with all our brothers and sisters today.
Whatever we are facing, we know you have a plan and are
in complete control of ever second of this day. If you are
for us, no one can stand against us.

Unleash your creativity and boldness in us, so we may
preach and publish your word with power and authority.
Every word in the Bible is true and it is a shield for
those who trust you. No weapon formed against
us shall prosper, but every tongue that rises against
us in judgment, you will condemn. This is the heritage
of the servants of the LORD and our righteousness
is from you.

Protect our homes, our web sites, our mail machine
and computers. Cover us with the blood of Jesus
and lift all sickness and disease from our bodies.
LORD, if you will, you can make us whole.

Father we ask for safety for our troops and their families. Unite our
world in love and end the bloodshed and violence. Bless our enemies
and forgive them. Open their eyes to the truth in your word and
bring them to faith in Jesus.

Father we ask you to reveal to us any false prophets, pastors, teachers, or evangelists.
Shield us from false doctrine, and help us to be always lead to the truth by the power
of the Holy Spirit. Keep us from evil and temptation. Your word makes us wiser than
our enemies and not one of your good promises has ever failed.

Thank you for snow and rain, bountiful crops, and abundantly providing for all our needs.
You are the source of our strength and our help in times of trouble. We lift our hands
to worship and praise your Holy name.

Send labourers and translators to help us fulfill the Great Commission to share
your messages of hope with all nations.

May the words of this message and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable to
you, our strength and redeemer.

In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings; for they will increase
unto more ungodliness. 2 Timothy 2:15-16

Your sister and servant of the LORD Jesus,
Valerie Rousseau