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―That in everything ye are enriched by Him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge, even as TheThe TestimonyTestimony

of Christ was confirmed in you.‖ I Cor. 1:5–6 Verse Of The Month

“Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.” Psalm 26:2

Vol. II September, 2011 No. 9

WHO AM I?

At the end of the day, end of the week, end of the month, end of the year, I lay down on my pillow and gaze at the ceiling. Yet another day is gone, another minute closer to eternity. “Why am I here, Lord?” I ask in the darkness, feeling His presence near. Then I close my eyes and wonder, how am I making a difference in someone else‟s life? How many times do I use the word „I‟ when in conversation? How many times a day do I say „me‟? „My‟? When talking to a friend, do I really know their heart? Or do they only know mine? Who or what consumes my prayers? Me and my way? Do I fervently pray for others? Where do the hours of my day go? Serving my husband? My children? The widow next door? The mother who needs a helping hand? Or do I spend time pleasing myself as I simply „put on hold‟ the gentle words of Jesus to visit the fatherless and widows? At the Sunday dinner table, do I make sure everyone knows my point of view, or do I listen to the heart of my brother? After a full day‟s work, with whom do I spend my time? Jesus? My family? Or myself? Do I cry when a heart is hurting? Rejoice with those who rejoice? Do I serve my husband by joyfully doing what „he‟ wants to do? Do I serve my wife by seeking her heart before making a decision? Do I serve my Lord by giving up my time and my will? What do those around me think the most important thing in my life is? Who, really, am I?

Almighty Father, may we be Your children and servants who have prayers for the lost, tears for the hurting, ears for the lonely, hands for the busy, joy for the joyful, time for the family, words that truly care, and an unselfish heart to serve You, our Lord and Master, by serving others day by day.

Lynae Peters

The Testimony

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A PRAYER Teach me, Father, how to go, softly as the grasses grow; Hush my soul to meet the shock, of the wild world as a rock; But my spirit, prompt with power, make as simple as a flower. Let the dry heart fill its cup, like a poppy looking up; Let life lightly wear her crown, like a poppy looking down When its heart is filled with dew, and its life begins anew. Teach me, Father, how to be, kind and patient as a tree. Joyfully the crickets croon, under shady oak at noon; Beetle, on his mission bent, tarries in that cooling tent. Let me, also, cheer a spot, hidden field or garden grot— Place where passing souls can rest, on the way and be their best. — Edwin Markham OLD ALTARS AND NEW COMMITMENTS 3 Editorial

OLD ALTARS AND NEW as such shouldn‘t we be convicted by COMMITMENTS the Holy Spirit of scriptural truth as it is written? The Holy Spirit‘s direction will not be different from scrip- ALTARS, defined as a high place, tural teaching. a place of sacrifice. Old Testament Is it possible to use the scriptures in altars were for sacrifice, worship, and a manner that they become a legalistic thanksgiving. The earliest account of tool? Now, I will readily agree this altars is in Genesis 8:20. ―Noah may sound unusual, but scripture as builded an altar unto the LORD.‖ law without grace and love seems to Some Old Testament alters were be in violation of other scriptures such built by command, and some altars as forbearance, love, kindness, pa- were voluntarily constructed for spe- tience, etc. Could the spirit of legalism cific sacrifices. God desires from His be another high place? The Holy Scrip- people sacrifices of thankfulness, tures are God‘s grace and direction to worship, and praise in addition to the us and as such we want to discipline required sacrifices. Old Testament our lives accordingly. (Oh, to be like altars had another specific purpose: Jesus!) All scripture is given by inspi- to prepare for, and teach the people ration of God and is profitable for us about the lamb slain from the foun- in every area of our lives. We may dation of the world. (Revelation 13:8) conclude that there are two extremes There are approximately 355 Old that we can be led into when we at- Bible references and 23 New Testa- tempt to view the scriptures in a legal- ment references to altars. The ―high places‖ in scripture usu- istic manner. ally were where altars were built to 1. ―I can use the wording of scrip- worship apart from the Temple in Je- ture to judge others without careful- rusalem (I Kings 3:2) or to worship ness.‖ idols (I Kings 14:23). We very likely 2. ―If it‘s not found in scripture, in don‘t erect altars to the unknown God the form of commandment or example, (Acts 17:23), but do we have unrecog- no person or Church should give me nized high places (altars) in our lives? counsel against it.‖ Are these high places a distraction Could the conclusion be found in from true worship? Could we lose our II Corinthians 3:6? ―Who also hath true worship even because the struc- made us able ministers of the New ture and direction of our fellowship Testament; not of the letter, but of become our focus? Perhaps pride and the spirit: for the letter killeth, but self could be on the throne. the spirit giveth life.‖ The New Tes- Sometimes we hear the expression tament scripture used as the ―letter ―let the Spirit be my guide.‖ To some of the law‖ will kill the spirit. The this would mean ―the Spirit is all I Holy Spirit gives life by the connec- need; no other direction or structure tion of His spirit with our spirit. is needed.‖ Perhaps the spirit of self When that connection or joy is lost by is this high place. When the Holy the ―letter of the law‖ the witness is Spirit and the Word are separated, gone, the joy is dead, and the Word is could we be following another spirit? lifeless. When we seek God‘s face John 16:13 refers to the Comforter, through the Holy Scriptures at the the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of truth. Altar of Sacrifice, Jesus Christ, we All scripture is doctrinal truth, and will find life, blessing and joy. 4 The Testimony September, 2011 NEW COMMITMENTS. Hebrews mune with Him. When we serve 13:9–10, ―Be not carried about with within HIS CHURCH, led by HIS divers and strange doctrines. For it is HOLY SPIRIT, directed by HIS HOLY a good thing that the heart be estab- WORD, isn‘t it proper and is it not lished with grace; not with meats, with joy we offer ourselves at the al- which have not profited them that tar, Jesus Christ? The unity we see in have been occupied therein. We have our Father God, His Son Jesus, and an altar, whereof they have no right to the Holy Spirit may be experienced in eat which serve the tabernacle.‖ We His body, the Church, as we individu- have an altar!! That altar is Jesus ally, collectively, continually, in hu- Christ. He is our altar, our sacrifice, mility, repent and refocus on Jesus, and our-high priest. If we serve the our altar, our sacrifice, our priest. tabernacle (law) we have no right to May we have a new commitment eat, partake, fellowship, and commune every morning to HIM!! with Him. If we serve the tabernacle, the tent of dwelling (self) we have no right to eat, partake, fellowship, com- Dean Kinsley Home & Family

HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR pieces she held in her hand. And WIVES, AND BE NOT another tear falls. How she loved BITTER AGAINST THEM him. And needed him. Could he not see how hard she was trying… Colossians 3:19 to be all he wanted her to be? She had been so determined to please Oh Lord, may the words of this him. To honor him. And he seemed essay move the husbands and not to notice. Submission is so wives of troubled marriages with hard to do. Especially when her new resolve to ―strengthen the own mind had a will. An opinion. things which remain, that are A feeling. How desperately she ready to die.‖ wanted to go back and have their A woman sat sewing quietly at conversation again. To say the her sewing machine, removing pins proper things and feel his hug and and feeding the material skillfully kiss as they part for the day. Sev- under the plunging needle, and eral more tears fall. carefully pulling the bonded pieces A woman moves purposely to the back. BONDED. Stitched. around the kitchen, from stove, Knit together. And a tear gathered table, refrigerator, sink and back in her eye and fell on the work she again. Putting the meal on the held in her hands. Her thoughts table for supper. As she works her were on her dear husband and the expression is drawn and tight and sharp words that he had spoken to every now and then her chin quiv- her this morning as he left for ers. She must not cry. She must work. If they could only be knit be strong in front of the children. together in love as securely as the As she stirs and blends the ingre- HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES… 5 dients in the recipe, she yearns for trying to make this house a the same BLENDING and close- HOME, I desperately need his in- ness in her marriage. When her volvement. I‘m so tired, weary, husband came home this evening, weak. So much work and so little he went straight to his chair and time to prepare these little ones picked up the paper. A quick glance for their future. I need his her way and a hasty ―hello‖ and life strength, his encouragement, his goes on and on and on. Many years understanding, his tenderness. invested in this union. Many ups But really, Lord, what I need most and downs as they travel side by right now, is for him to just hold side the path of life. So ―in love‖ at me while I cry…and not have him one time. So close in thought once, demand ‗why?‘ Just to have him and their love so tender and fresh. understand and accept me as I What had happened? How could am, for even women often don‘t their love have grown so stale? know why they cry. They just do. Even standing close together, they It‘s the way God designed them. are far apart. If they could just Tenderhearted. Emotional. Lov- talk, visit, chat like they used to, ing.‖ The woman ends her prayer when it was just the two of them. ―in Jesus‘ name,‖ and crawls wea- She had so much to tell him. She rily into bed, her tired body reach- longs to see that special smile that ing for sleep, but her hurting mind he used to send her way. That ―not reaching out to the empty space only do I love you, but I really like beside her. She feels alone and you‖ look. She remembers the drifting on the sea of life. She blessing of hearing his vow of faith- looks for her anchor, but he is not fulness until death. She can still there. Her pillow becomes damp hear the tenderness in his voice, and then wet with tears. It‘s safe feel the beating of her heart. Feel to cry here…where the children the joy and sweetness of that day. won‘t see. And she dreams of the Not only were they partners in past and hopes for the future. marriage, they were also once the ************ best of friends. She glances toward A husband works late in his the chair and she sees him as he shop or on the farm, lingers late at once was. Open, tender, laughing, a meeting, works late evenings on sharing, careful of her feelings. his computer, talks business late And she wishes…and a tear falls on the phone, late night reading on the counter. for pleasure. The evening becomes A woman on her knees by the night and he notices that the night bed as she bows her head in sup- is DARK. He feels the dark in his plication to God. ―Please, God, heart. For various reasons, things help us. Help this marriage. Help have been tense between his wife my husband, Lord, to be a spiri- and him. She seems so moody tual leader in this house. I need lately, hard to please. So busy this. Our children need this. In with home and children that she 6 The Testimony September, 2011 rarely has any time left for him. children sinking, crying for help, Did she not see how hard he and he thought of Peter sinking in worked to put food on the table, the sea and crying ―Lord save me!‖ clothes on their backs? Did she With the feeling of water, cold have a clue how stressful oversee- around his feet, the man and hus- ing a family, a house, a business, a band fell to his knees beside his future, was? In the first few years chair and whispered, ―Lord save us. of their marriage, it seemed as if This marriage. This union. Re- her mind was nearly always his store the blessedness we knew mind. They were both on the when first we stood face to face. same page. Together. One. And promised each other that United. Peaceful. Content. ‗come what may, we would not Now many years married and stray.‘ That we would always cling things have shaken loose. Loose together till death do us part. Help ends flapping in the breeze of com- us Lord, to restore the wonder that placency. It seems that often lately we have put asunder. Oh, Lord, their minds were barely in the help fix this anchor back to the same book, let alone on the same ship, lest our children slip. And page. Argument. Contention. teach me to be a husband, father, Apathy. Unrest. Disunity. He friend, to this family of mine. Show wanted so badly to feel like they me how to be a gentle, truth once had. Rooted. Established. leader, not a power pusher. Open Fixed in fervent love and respect the WAY before us to a better, for each other. Anchored. This un- stronger relationship in our mar- ion needed an anchor and he was it. riage. And then give us the courage But he felt like an anchor with no and strength to WALK in that ship, chain broken, lying stuck on WAY, even if it means leaving bits the ocean floor, while his ship of self behind. Lord…open mine tossed and drifted on the sea above. eyes so that I can clearly see, how He looked at the chain fallen Precious is this Companion, Thou around him and desperately hast given me.‖ wanted to fix the broken link. To The man searched his heart and feel the tug again of his ship con- found a small spark glowing in the nected to the anchor. To simply corner. It was a spark of the once hold her hand for no other reason brilliant, consuming love that he than just because. There are chil- had for his bride. A fire once so dren on this ship and they are ours. strong and bright that it blinded This is not their fault, but if we him to all her faults, blemishes, don‘t mend this link soon, it could and weaknesses. And he was become their tragedy. A broken then so willing and glad to be so marriage will take the deck from blind. She WAS his dream. His below their feet, and the children vision. The best of reasons for liv- will have to swim or sink. Tears ing. And he wanted the WAS to stung his eyes as he thought of the again be IS. He wanted to feel the HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES… 7 heat of that well laid fire of love. it was Better…but to understand it A warm, harmonious, cheerful, and obey was BEST. He thought peaceful, loving relationship once how fragile human relationships enjoyed. But fires don‘t just hap- can be and how artful Satan is at pen. They must be BUILT, they destroying marriages. And how must be started, they must be fed, Satan loves to kill and destroy and and then carefully tended and con- maim. And how he worries mar- trolled. He had the spark for riages until they become flame, but he needed help and un- ―troubled.‖ Until they falter. Un- derstanding in how to re-build a til they fail. Until they die. How fire and the right fuel to feed it. many marriages are walking in Then a song came to his mind, the valley of the shadow of death? ―Come, descend O Heav‘nly Into his mind came a Psalm. Spirit! Fan each spark into a He turned to Psalm 23. Could flame.‖ And he longed for com- these words apply to marriage? fort…and the Comforter came and ―Lord, lead me beside the still wa- wrapped around him to enlighten ters. For Thou art with me. Com- him. God is not slack concern- fort me and lead me to a table of ing His promises. ―Ask marriage nourishment in and ye shall receive.‖ the face of all the mar- And his eyes were ―…a tear gathered riage enemies who opened to the in her eye…her would tear our TRUTH. commitment That is…he thoughts were on apart. Heal us so saw his Bible on her dear husband that goodness the stand beside and the sharp words and mercy will his chair. Was follow us all the that a little dust on he had spoken that days of our mar- the cover? It hit him morning…‖ riage. And we can with purpose and dwell in the Lord‘s shame. It had been awhile House of harmony.‖ It felt since he had held this book. Really good here in green pastures. This held it. Really felt it. Really place where souls were restored. trusted it. He reached for it, and it He felt sure that if the Lord could slid willingly into his hands. It felt restore souls here, then He could good and comfortable to hold it. restore marriages too. He looked And a tear scattered the dust on up from the table and could see the cover. Ashamed, he thought the enemies of his life, and the life how he had also neglected the rela- of marriages, round about him. tionship with his companion until He felt no fear of these evils for dust and neglect had soiled a once the Lord was HERE with him. clean surface. As he rifled the page Because of the Lord‘s presence, edges, he knew that to hold the these enemies were kept too far Word was Good, to open it and read away to do them harm. 8 The Testimony September, 2011 What a nice, peaceful place this must love her as he does himself. is. He wanted to lie down in the They are one flesh by marriage green grass and just relax a little. and no man hates his own flesh. He longed with all his being to He must nourish and cherish her bring his wife to this place of res- and have the same care for her as toration. A table prepared for he has for himself. The Word said THEM, ready, waiting. A table of that ―Christ presents His Church healing, with the Great Physician to Himself, and in His eyes His attending. The Shepherds Table. Bride is without spot, wrinkle or Where He sits as Head. Before we blemish.‖ He even views His may REST here, the Shepherd Bride as Holy. He doesn‘t see the says, we must WALK there, and frailty of the flesh and age. He the Shepherd points to a path in sees the GOOD. The spots, wrin- the scriptures and says, kles and blemishes are cov- ―Come, follow me, and ered in His Right- I will lead you in eousness and she paths of right- ―The man wanted to is sanctified by eousness.‖ This love his wife. To look… His Love. He will be a na- even promises ture walk. past her weaknesses… to forget Human na- self-will…sad eyes. Sad things about ture. Your na- eyes? Was he responsi- His Bride that ture. Pay close He could right- and careful at- ble for her sadness of fully remember tention to the di- late?‖ against her. rection signs and (Hebrews 10:17) He their words of instruc- puts those wrongs away tion. Take your time, pause, in order to forgive, and gives to reflect, read again and again, the His Bride, true, unfeigned love. A Words of instruction. And I will love that is blind to fault and suf- be with thee, to help you, thy trou- fers long, and is kind. (I Corin- bles to bless, but keep walking, thians 13). Is not easily provoked. and keep reading, for we must re- Thinks not evil. Envies not. Be- turn again to this pasture, and lieves. Hopes. Endures things. this table that holds a vial of oil Christ‘s love for His Bride will and a cup. never fail. Ever. So the man opened the Book Oh, to be so loved like this. The and walked till he came to Ephe- man wanted to love his wife just sians 5:25–33. He spent some like that. To look on the heart of time here as he read, and the his wife, past all that the trials of Shepherd helped him understand. time had touched. Past her weak- Husbands MUST love their wives nesses, frailty, age spots, gray like Christ loves the Church. He hair, self-will, opinions, wrinkles, must give himself for his wife. He body changes and sad eyes. Sad HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES… 9 eyes? Was he responsible for her He walked on…to I Peter 3:7– sadness of late? He thought of all 11. He was to honor his wife‘s that she had given through the weakness. How to honor a weak years. The sacrifice of youth and vessel? By not expecting or plac- beauty in bearing his children. ing more burden on her than she All the time she had given for his can bear or hold. A help meet well being. Loving him even is not a slave, and there is cer- though he was often uncomely and tainly no law against ―helping a insensitive. When he stopped to help meet.‖ Mates walk side by think, he realized what a HELP side, together. Joint heirs of the she had been to him. Always grace of life. If ―togetherness‖ there. Faithful. He would be noth- is not achieved in marriage, then ing without her, for she was the both their prayers could be hin- other half of himself. dered. Contention weakens peti- He walked on to Colossians tion. He looked at verses 8–11 3:19. ―Husbands, love your and again realized that he had [wife] and be not bitter against not thought of these verses in [her].‖ Part command and part light of marriage. They fit, per- admonition. What did these words fect admonition for husbands mean? Did God write this admo- and wives. To see good days in nition because He knew bitterness this marriage, he must seek would be a great tool of the adver- peace and pursue it. sary? Was he ―against her‖ or Down the path, back to the ―for her‖? Was he bitter? Bitter table, and another sign. I Corin- means, sharp, piercing. If she thians 7:3–5. Here he found was often ―up against‖ a ―sharp‖ that he owed something to his husband, would this not pierce her wife and he was expected to pay own heart with tartness and the it. By marriage vows they had whole relationship turn bitter? ―A given power over their own indi- little leaven leaveneth the whole viduality to each other. Two lump.‖ Verse 21 caught his eye. had become ONE. When Adam How many children have been an- saw Eve, he said, ―She is bone of gry and discouraged because of a my bones, and flesh of my strained and bitter relationship flesh.‖ Then he ―gave himself between their parents? for her‖ by giving her his own Close by…another sign. Ephe- name as basis for her name, be- sians 4:31–32. As he read, he real- cause she came directly from ized that he had not thought of him. She was MADE from his these verses pertaining to mar- own flesh while he slept. Would riage. But they fit hand in glove. she not have been made, living, He made a resolve to ―put bitter- with Adam‘s own ―breath of life‖ ness away‖ and replace it with in her lungs and his own life sweetness. He must be tender- from his rib quickening her? A hearted and forgiving. great mystery! 10 The Testimony September, 2011 Verse 5 gave him pause. De- blessing to our marriage. Help me fraud? In marriage? Marriage to realize that a husband‘s companions are not to avoid or strength is made perfect in his distance themselves from each wife‘s weakness. Help me to love other except for a short time of her, truly love her and accept her fasting or prayer. And this only as she is. I know this is what you by mutual consent or agreement. have done for me. In forgiveness. And then they were commanded to In acceptance. In loving me, the come together, be one again, with most unlovely of men. Make me a each other, both in heart and in man of spirit. Tight together again so Godliness “As he turned that Satan had no void in which to and break from his bitter- drive his wedge of ―troubles.‖ my hardness of ness toward TOGETHER… heart to his wife, he felt Marriage is all about being to- betterness p l e a s a n t l y gether. Praying together. Living from bit- together. Parenting together. t e r n e s s . lighter…it felt Worshipping together. Rejoicing Help me to good to lay his together. Enduring together. say and burden down.” Staying together. He wondered if mean the Adam and Eve were together words I know but seldom use: I when Satan tempted Eve. It ap- was wrong, I am sorry, Please pears that Adam was not with forgive me, I love you, I forgive Eve, when Satan showed up. If you. Help me to understand that they had been together, why did meekness is not weakness, but Eve do the talking? Where was strength under control. Oh, Lord, Adam‘s voice? His council? Had Help. Heal. Guide. Strengthen. he been there he could have Restore. Comfort, this marriage.‖ helped Eve in her weakness. But The Shepherd pointed to the Satan is crafty and he tempts hus- cup and the man saw that it was bands and wives most when they overflowing. Blessings were spill- are separate in heart and alone ing onto the table. ―Leave your in selfishness. hardness and bitterness here on The man returned to the table the table,‖ the Shepherd said, ―and prepared for him, and the oil and you can have this cup. Betterness cup upon it. He stood quiet and for bitterness. This cup is over- convicted before the Shepherd. flowing with wisdom from above ―Lord,‖ he said, ―the fault is and it‘s yours if you will trade.‖ mine. I have not been the hus- The man noticed that James 3:14– band, leader, head of this union as 18 was written on the cup. I should have. I have been selfish, The Shepherd pointed to the vial controlling, pushing, instead of of oil. ―The Oil of Gladness.‖ He- leading. Help me to restore the brews 1:9 was written on one side HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES… 11 and Ecclesiastes 9:7–9 was written sians 2:2 and bring a marriage on the other. ―I would like to share ―together‖ again. But you have this with you and your wife. Mar- to want it bad enough to give up riage is meant to be joyous. Heads self so that you can give in to the anointed with this ointment will be sweet influence of the Com- happy and fulfilled.‖ forter. (John 14:17) The Shepherd laid a rod and ―Ahh, the comfort of a peaceful His staff on the table. ―Comfort marriage,‖ the man thought, more comes in two parts,‖ He said, precious than gold. He wanted the ―correction and direction.‖ The oil and cup on the table, for good- rod and staff together bring com- ness and mercy to be a part of fort to troubled souls. To troubled their ―everyday‖ life. It was sud- marriages. The rod is for correc- denly very urgent that his wife tion and discipline. You may not come to this table of restoration. use it as it is only Mine to wield. He must lead her here, where The staff is for direction, support Hope, Joy and Peace lay glistening and guidance. It‘s made to lean on the table, spilled from an ever on and you may use it anytime overflowing cup. It was time. Past you feel the need. Use it often, for time. To seek Peace and Pursue it. it‘s helped many over rough and As he turned from his bitterness rugged terrain. This staff of com- toward his wife, he felt pleasantly fort represents The Word. The Lighter, not so dark. It felt so Word you have with you always, good to lay his burden down. He even unto the end. However, The hadn‘t realized how very heavy Word, like a staff must be held, bitterness is. He wasn‘t sure kept close, used, and employed. It where all he had picked it up from, will do you no good, leaning in a maybe just a little at a time, some corner, stuck on a shelf, hiding in here and some there, until he a magazine rack or under a news- stumbled under its weight. He re- paper. You will find direction and solved to leave bitterness lay guidance in its pages. whenever he encountered it in the In John 14, 15, and 16, you will future, and not pick it up again. find the Comforter, the Holy Spirit Caught up in his musing, the of God. No marriage is complete man came to a start in his chair. without His influence.‖ He Abides He stood up, the Word in his (14:16), Teaches (14:26), Testifies hands. He wrapped the Comforter (15:26), Guides (16:13), Reproves around him and thought how like (16:8). His work is Peace (14:27). a blanket It was, It brings no He can help restore a marriage if warmth unless you ―Put It On.‖ He is invited and welcome and He had much to confess to his trusted. He understands the mys- wife. The success of a marriage tery of Ephesians 5:31–32, how depends primarily on the leader- two are ―one flesh‖ before God. ship of the husband. Was it not he He has the keys to unlock Colos- who had ask her for her hand in 12 The Testimony September, 2011 union? Did she not accept…in their feet. They must not sink due faith believing that he would ever to a broken link. ―Broken‖ can be be a good man, a good husband, ―Fixed‖ in Christ, for with God, a good father? If he was to be ―All Things are Possible.‖ good, then he must truly become As he went seeking to his Father’s son. ―strengthen the things which Time to occupy in his duty. remain, that are ready to die,‖ There was a fire to build, a spark to he noticed that he was curiously fan. There was some ―knitting‖ to happier and humming a song. do. Two hearts needing knit together into a Comforter. He did- Blest be the tie that binds n‘t know much about ―knitting,‖ Our hearts in Christian love; but he knew someone who did. He The fellowship of kindred minds would need her ―help‖ to ―meet‖ Is like to that above. their mutual obligations in ―untroubling‖ their marriage. Arlan Wolf This ship WILL have an anchor. And their children a deck below General

ROAD TO SAINTHOOD It sounds quite simple, but is it? It‘s not how long you live, but Why were the saints, saints? how you live. Because they believed the gospel of Jesus Christ! Author Unknown Then… Selected by They were cheerful when it was Brad and Molly Lavy difficult to be cheerful; Patient when it was difficult to be patient; They pushed on when they wanted to stand still, And sometimes they stood still when they wanted to hurry on. They kept silent when Quote they wanted to talk; And they talked when it would have been ―When our houses were of wood, far easier to keep silent, and just then our hearts were of gold; but blend in. when our houses became golden, They were agreeable when they our hearts became wooden.‖ wanted to be disagreeable; but Hans de Ries, were willing to disagree, when Dutch Mennonite (1553–1638) truth was at stake. And that‘s why the saints are saints today, too! HOW SHALL WE PREACH? 13 HOW SHALL WE PREACH? flesh, and the devil. The spirit-led preacher is not fearful of being Yost H. Miller (1918–2009) labeled legalistic, but he is fearful There are two types of preach- of depreciating the Word of God by ing coming from Conservative not making proper application to Anabaptist pulpits, stemming life. He trusts the Holy Spirit to from differing views of what con- bring effective conviction to both stitutes the gospel message. The the principles and their applica- one is often referred to as being tions. He understands this is a spiritual, and the other as being proper requirement for true spiri- legalistic. Although they should tual ministration of the Word. compliment each other, they often Paul spelled out many applica- are seen as contradicting one an- tions along with the principles. other. (See I Corinthians 6:1–8; and To make it clear and simple as chapters 7 and 8). the Holy Spirit enables me to Conservative Anabaptist make it, please consider the fol- churches in Ohio witnessed a very lowing description of the two. effective demonstration of spelling The so-called spiritual view as- out proper application in 1951– sumes that if our preaching is 1956. One of the ministers in that Spirit-empowered, and composed period of time was used of God to of prayer-saturated Christ- bring sweeping revival to the centeredness, it will not be neces- churches. We were given to see the sary to name things that pertain to positive side of what many call righteous and holy living, and that legalism today. we must trust the Holy Spirit to do This brother preached the Word that for us. If any specific applica- of God vigorously and profoundly. tions are made of what is holy or He made applications and named sinful, it is labeled as legalistic. things in a way that all who heard Even though the applications could understand clearly what are based on New Testament prin- obedience to the principle required ciples, it is seen as departing from of them. People repented with visi- grace and reverting to law for ble evidence. Restitutions were righteousness. made. Worldly and sinful items The other view likewise empha- were burned. There were testimo- sizes total dependence upon God, nies of deliverance from tobacco, the need for prayer, and the im- liquor, immorality, foul language, perative of preaching Christ and bitterness, worldly dress, jewelry, Him crucified. In contrast, how- and so on and on. ever, these also believe that Spirit- Sinners were testified to, and led includes making clear what invited to come to Christ and the identifies with Bible principles of church. There was no room for ab- holiness and, on the other hand, stract conversions about exterior what identifies with the world, the evidence, as is often the case. 14 The Testimony September, 2011 Store owners threw their tobacco dence unto the Glory of God. out and quit selling it. Women Some visiting evangelists re- wore their veilings during the frain from this type of preaching, week, and not only when they reasoning that they should just went to church. The Word of God preach the Gospel. This leaves the grew mightily and prevailed. making of applications entirely for An entire sermon was preached the home ministers. This unwit- about the evils of television. There tingly leaves the impression that was no blushing about making the Gospel is distinct from its applications of Bible principles practical application to life. That against this tool so effectively used tends to undermine the efforts of for evil mind control. Many minis- the home ministerial team to keep ters testified in the tent meetings biblical order in the church. But of Sunday morning confessions when evangelists and pastors all and testimonials taking up all the speak basically the same message time, so that they didn‘t get to (I Corinthians 1:10), the church is preach. edified and strengthened. I mention this so that we may In summary, then, the first be bold to make applications and manner of preaching is essentially name things that need to be pietistic in its content. Its message named. Let us not be intimidated is confined to the inward aspect of by the fear of being labeled as le- the Christian faith which, of galists. Those who operate in the course, is essential. But that alone misty indefiniteness of super- ends in a certain incompleteness, spirituality and its claims of pie- without addressing also the exte- tistic excellence, have yet to prove rior responses of the faith. ―Show the validity of their view. Of me thy faith without thy works, course, as in all our preaching, we and I will show thee my faith by must guard against extremes, my works.‖ (James 2:18) When with a godly, Spirit-led sense of the inward aspect of faith does not moderation and balance. We need bring our outward responses into straight forward preaching of the proper balance, our faith is in Word in a commanding, Christ- question and our testimony is centered way, making appropriate, empty. well defined application. Things Unknown to far too many of our that obviously pertain to the sin- people, this was one of the basic ful, fleshly, worldly life of the lust distinctions between our Anabap- and pride need to be exposed. That tist heritage and mainline which identifies with holiness, churches. Where Bible principles godliness, and righteousness are taught without brotherly needs to be promoted. Having agreement on how they should be done our duty, we must still trust applied to life, there is always a the Holy Spirit to bring conviction predictable result, well proven by unto repentance, with visible evi- history. There will be drifting to- WE ARE THE PROBLEM 15 ward the lifestyle of acculturated way—because we want to. God is churches, and of the non- not our authority. This seed professing world as well. So we sprouted quickly in Adam and must preach the word of God ―as Eve; snuffed the life out of them they that must give ac- both, and continued growing in count‖ (Hebrews 13:17), with an their recently fallen hearts. You urgency that commands unto ―the can think about their heart condi- obedience of the faith.‖ Even as tion in several ways: broken, in Paul instructed Titus, ―These need of fixing, sick in need of heal- things speak, and exhort, and re- ing, darkened in need of enlighten- buke with all authority. Let no ment, or lost in need of saving. man despise thee.‖ (Titus 2:15) Most people speak of mankind‘s From the Calvary Messenger, by condition using either fallen or permission. depraved. Selected by This separation from God, caused in the Garden of Eden by Dave and Emily Wirick the first man, has influenced the entire human race in a negative way. Interestingly enough, all of the problems that pervade our lives, both in ourselves and in the WE ARE THE PROBLEM world around us, are largely due to that one incident that happened About two thousand fourteen some six thousand years ago. The years ago a man was born with a Bible says, ―Wherefore, as by one predetermined name, an angel man sin entered into the world, had spoken to His mother: “thou and death by sin; and so death shalt call His name JESUS: for He passed upon all men, for that all shall save His people from their have sinned.‖ (Romans 5:12) We sins,” (Matthew 1:21). Humanity‘s begin to feel this problem resting need for an intervening salvation on our own shoulders; thinking from our sins had been a heavy about the need for God to send a burden on God‘s heart ever since sacrifice to redeem us from our the incident in the garden when fallen (into sin) condition. Satan deceived Eve, who influ- The Apostle John writes of the enced Adam, who first sinned cure to this depravity after Jesus against God. Probably Satan‘s lived and died, ―The Son of God happiest day since he fell, watch- was manifested, that He might ing their horror as they begin to destroy the works of the realize what they had done. This devil.‖ (I John 3:8) We clearly see first transgression against God the works of the devil in the Gar- was as if the devil planted a seed den. Even with all the trouble he of rebellion at the very core of hu- may be causing in the world today, man hearts: we will go our own I am going to charge him with this 16 The Testimony September, 2011 work of causing man to fall away Satan that each one of us inher- from God as his greatest accom- ited. We must acknowledge this plishment. Probably his favorite work and deal with it. As un- hour of history: he talked Adam pleasant as it may be, we must and Eve out of their relationship face the facts: we are all inher- with their Creator. He completely ently against God internally. Be- spoiled the friendship between fore the act of committing of sins, Jehovah and humanity, until man is already in desperate need Christ rose from the dead, as- of regeneration. cended, and sent the promise of Often, the thing that causes the Holy Spirit upon us. most people to repent is merely the The work of Satan is the worst external fruit growing up visibly thing that has ever happened to out of their life. Beware, many do man, causing a continual conse- not realize the depths of where quence of a depraved race. As the their sin comes from, springing up fallen people, we face these conse- from the root deep in their heart. quences: and our own heart cannot The majority of professing Chris- be trusted because in it is the seed tians have not figured this out yet. of rebellion. We have inherited Many say they believe we are the ability, and the desire to sin fallen, but few actually figure out against God. Why is this? We that they are the ones standing have in our hearts this root of evil; guilty before God in this area. we are actually enemies of God That is why Jesus has to say to the and turned against Him continu- many professing Christians on ally, unless someone else inter- judgment day, “I never knew you: venes. Only the Holy Spirit can depart from me, ye that work iniq- reveal this inherent wickedness to uity.” Amazing, considering all the a person: to think it up on our wonderful things they did in Jesus own, or hear another tell us about name! What could have gone it, is not within our grasp. To un- wrong? (See Matthew 7:21–23) derstand this is not in man of him- We are all born in sin (Psalm self, much less the ability to 51:5) with a wicked heart, change and begin walking in the (Jeremiah 17:5) and a great need. light with the LORD. The Scripture further says, “The Praise to Jesus, He has not left imagination of man’s heart is evil us to ourselves, but He comes to from his youth; every imagination us and desires that we turn away of the thoughts of his heart was from ourselves, and trust Him. only evil continually” (Genesis Only Jesus, can cleanse us from 8:21, 6:5). This is a strong state- this great wickedness that grows ment coming from God who sees within our very own hearts. Pay- into the depths of our soul. A very ing the supreme price, Jehovah serious charge laid against each of sent His Son to be manifest, so us, and credited to every account. that He might destroy this work of It should cause us great desire to IF THE HEART IS RIGHT, IS ALL RIGHT? 17 be free from our wretched broken cause we cannot afford to be hearts, and to find the healing wrong. The LORD still expresses power to fix it. Due to the internal His affection through fellowship and spiritual nature of this opera- with any person who is not rebel- tion, nothing but faith can reach lious at the core. Adoring Him is inside and do the mending. No what He created us for in the be- amount of physical effort or reli- ginning. If you have not yet un- gious practices will touch this area derstood the reality of your own of great need deep within. wicked heart, nor realized that Trusting Jesus Christ, only for you were/are inclined towards sin- that sin which we commit is like ning, more than likely you are not continually picking the thorns off saved from yourself—yet. Repent- your thorn tree, which is a never- ing from your sinful actions will ending battle against the devil and never replace that seed of rebel- ourselves. Imagine God wanting lion with the seed of Jesus Christ, to draw close to you, but every (see I John 3:8–9). Not only will time He does, another thorn pokes this shortsightedness limit your him; and He cannot fellowship fellowship with God and the abil- with thorn trees anyway. Rather ity to do what is right, but it will than wear and tear ourselves also forfeit your eternal life. down trying to prune away the Aaron Sink evil fruit, allow the Son of man to destroy the very root of the issue, which is why He came. He cannot save us from ourselves until we realize our problem, and ask for help. We should not forsake such a grand opportunity to turn away IF THE HEART IS RIGHT, from ourselves; we are our own IS ALL RIGHT? biggest problem. Our fallen nature is the work of the devil; recog- What does the Lord look on? nize it, root it out, cast it off, and I Samuel 16:7b: for man looketh be done with it. on the outward appearance, but Although Satan helped us get the LORD looketh on the heart. crosswise, he will never help us be Does God know my heart? in communion again. He fights Luke 16:15a: Ye are they which against this with all his strength. justify yourselves before men; but God can restore the broken fellow- God knoweth your hearts. ship to those who obey him out of a pure heart. Purity of heart is Where does God put the ear- necessary, before ever trying to nest of His spirit? II Corinthians please God with your actions. 1:21–22: …God, Who hath sealed There is no mistaking a restored us, and given the earnest of the relationship, which is good be- Spirit in our hearts. 18 The Testimony September, 2011 Where do we fulfill God’s you. Let not your heart be trou- will? Revelation 17:17: For God bled, neither let it be afraid. hath put in their hearts to fulfill His will. How should we serve God? I Chronicles 28:9: …know thou the Who knows our heart? Acts God of thy father, and serve him 15:8: And God which knoweth the with a perfect heart and a willing hearts, bare them witness giving mind, for the LORD searcheth all them the Holy Ghost. hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts. Where is the love of God shed? Romans 5:5: …because the A heart not right before God. love of God is shed abroad in our Acts 8:21–22: Thou hast neither hearts by the Holy Ghost which is part nor lot in this matter; for thy given to us. heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy Who shines in our hearts? wickedness, and pray God, if per- II Corinthians 4:6–7: For God hath haps the thought of thine heart shined in our hearts to give the may be forgiven thee. light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. What is our sacrifice before But we have this treasure in God? Psalm 51:17: The sacrifices earthen vessels, that the Excel- of God are a broken spirit; a bro- lency of the power may be of God, ken and contrite heart, O God, and not of us. thou wilt not despise.

We should have a heart to If we desire Christ to live in us, fulfill God’s will. Acts 13:22: I we must yield our heart to His have found David the son of Jesse, will. He will never leave us nor a man after mine own heart, forsake us. He looks at our heart, which shall fulfill all my will. knows our heart, places the Holy Spirit in our heart, shines in our Who ponders our heart? heart, ponders our heart, fills our Proverbs 21:2: Every way of a man heart with food and gladness, is right in his own eyes: but the gives peace that our heart be not LORD pondereth the hearts. troubled, searches our heart, and What does God give our as King David, that we have a hearts. Acts 14:17b: …and gave heart like His and fulfill His will. us rain from heaven, and fruitful If our heart is truly right be- seasons, filling our hearts with fore God, then all things find food and gladness. their place, and all will be right.

What does God leave with Brenton Wise us? John 14:27: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto FOR ME! 19 for young people

FOR ME! this, Daughter, this is for your every lustful thought or deed. As the scourge lashed out onto They are no more. And that gos- His back, He turned, and looked. sip. Forgiven. Your lies, bad at- At me. There was a tear in His titude, disrespect, self - eye. A small Voice spoke, ―This indulgence, even your enjoyment tear is for all those tears you‘ll of sin. It‘s Gone, Courtney.‖ Oh, cry.‖ The scourge lashed again. why? And then, He looked down And then, the blood began to fall. at me. ―Listen, my child. You With each crimson drop, the are forgiven— F O R G I V E N ! Voice spoke, ―There, Courtney, ‗Why?‘ As the life ebbs out of that drop was shed for your Me, Child, allow it to flow into pride. And that, that was for you. Take it. Receive it freely. those sins you tried to hide.‖ Pass it on. Do not make this of The pain, the agony, as time af- no purpose. Carry My Life on. I ter time the whip tore open His will live on!‖ back. The freer the blood fell, I looked at Him, still bleeding. the more the Voice spoke. ―Your But now the Voice was different. anger, Courtney! Your fear, ―Take this Life. It is the Way. It doubt, and selfishness. Those is truth, forgiveness, mercy, judgments you passed on my grace, and Love! Will you leave children….‖ The Voice continued, your past life here? Won‘t you but I couldn‘t bear to hear. Why let My Blood cover you?‖ was He doing this for me? And I could question ―why‖ no then, He took the cross and be- more. I knew now. It had been gan the long walk to The Hill. done for ME. To receive His life, Blood splashed upon the ground. that I could be free; so that I ―That‘s for your bitterness, could share it with all men! Child, let it go. Your hypocrisy.‖ All I could do was weep. Why? “But He was wounded for our Why was He doing this for me? transgressions, He was bruised And then, we reached the hill. for our iniquities: the chastise- As He was led to the cross, He ment of our peace was upon him; turned, and looked at me. ―For and with His stripes we are you,‖ He whispered. Oh why? healed.” Nailed on. Raised up. Mocked. Isaiah 53:5 Spit upon. Bleeding still. Oh, the Voice! What torture to hear Courtney Boone every sin I‘ve ever committed. But, there was no mercy. ―And 20 The Testimony September, 2011 My Young Blood Bought Believers, cave is also dark but remember CHARIOTS AND HORSES OF God is Light and the closer we are FIRE, AND A WHIRLWIND to Him the more our pathway will be illuminated. Elijah went to a cave in the The word of the Lord came to Mount of God. It was created by Elijah and asked, ―What are you God. When we desire to know God, doing here?‖ We could point out He will prepare a shelter for us. that Elijah was thinking as much How foolish it would have been for about himself as he was about God Elijah to not have made use of the with all of the I‘s and my‘s he cave! Can you imagine not being used to answer. But the point we in a shelter when a wind strong would like to make is that Elijah enough to rend a mountain and heard God and he answered God. break rocks in pieces would come?! God knows what we think before (If you are reading this, have you we even know ourselves, but He made your confession and commit- still wants us to tell Him all about ment to the Rock, the Lord Jesus?) it. He wants us to talk to Him. He Then a great earthquake and then wants us to listen to Him. Then fire! Brethren, let‘s fasten our He can speak to us and cause us to souls to the Rock of Ages. It will move out. He wants us to rely on never be broken. Him in every situation. Do you How can you compare being in a know what I mean by ―every situa- cave to knowing God and being in tion‖? I want to give you an exam- His will? The deeper you go in a ple, only to make myself clear. cave the more stability of tempera- Sometimes I feel we do not get ture you will have. The farther specific about what we mean be- you go in, the less you are affected cause we do not want to make our by what is going on outside the spiritual life look better than it is. cave. The deeper we are in God‘s Maybe sometimes we do not share fellowship, the less the world can our defeats because they would affect us. The more we see of God seem so humiliating. Either way and the more we are focused on we are thinking about our self. It Jesus Christ, the less enticing the is good for me to hear the victories sin around us becomes. We are His that others have in their lives to and He will show us what is best let me know it is possible. Some- for us. When we know God, we times it is good to share struggles have a stability that can only come so we can confess our faults and from being anchored to a Rock. A pray for each other and lift each CHARIOTS AND HORSES OF FIRE, AND A WHIRLWIND 21 other up. Many times we share the day. It‘s best to have a full charge same struggles. We can become to start the day. A DAY OF accountable to each other. GLORY FOR HIM. So what do I mean by talking Just as God was not in the to God and relying on Him in wind, earthquake and fire, He every situation? In my Consulting will not necessarily bring the tri- business there are times when I als in our life. Just as He did receive a lot of phone calls. Some- with Job, He allows Satan to try times we spend an entire morn- us. But just as He did with ing talking on the phone. Farm- Elijah, He will shelter us and ers are asking about rates for stand with us and we can commu- chemicals and fertilizers. Usually nicate with Him. After the trials there is more than one way to do are over God will tell us to go on. something. What a consultant is He gave Elijah several more supposed to do is give them the things to do. Anoint kings and his best way. Many times the phone successor, Elisha. According to rings and I feel drained. I know my Bible, Elijah had nearly 10 that of myself I will fail. We find more years and then what a ourselves often praying ―Lord, ride! The truth of the matter is guide me‖ and ―Lord, give me that we will have very good wisdom.‖ God wants to be in- transportation ourselves. The volved in every aspect of our Bible says the angels carried lives. I believe God is pleased Lazarus to Abraham‘s bosom. when we call out to Him even in The life of Elijah is just that— the details of our work. Then life. He had trials. He had moun- when our time of need has tain top experiences. He went passed, He wants PRAISE and through valleys. He was scared at THANKS. Let me caution you, I times. People didn‘t like him. He do not believe The Lord wants us got tired. God hid him. Do we al- to go through life just calling on ways know when God hides us? Him in time of need. He wants us Elijah talked to God. He walked to spend time with Him away with God. He worked for God. He from the stresses of life. I view it listened to God. He knew God. He like this: we need our battery at knew God intimately. Think of full charge, and then through the Enoch and Elijah. That is our de- day we can keep the power of God sire for each of you. The more we at full charge in our life with lit- learn of Him the more we trust tle trickle charges throughout the Him. The more we trust Him the 22 The Testimony September, 2011 less the things of this life affect us. Blessed of My Father, inherit the We may not leave the earth in a kingdom prepared for you!!!!!!‖ BLAZE of GLORY like Elijah. But O PRECIOUS CROSS, O GLO- if we are practiced at hearing the RIOUS CROWN, O RESURREC- still small voice of God we will TION DAY! YE ANGELS FROM hear the still small voice that says THE STARS COME DOWN AND ―Come up higher.‖ Then we may BEAR MY SOUL AWAY!! hear the whisper of angel wings. That sounds like a blaze of glory to me! If we are used to feeling God‘s presence we will feel ourselves To be Continued… rising to meet Him. If we are used to seeing Him in our daily life, I Dwayne Bowman believe we will see Him smile and stretch His arms to us and say ―O Elijah‘s God (Chorus) (Hymn #169 Favorite Songs and Hymns) Elijah’s God still lives today, O blessed be His Name. And when His children to Him pray, He answers still the same. Yes, He controls the universe, all things obey His Word, And when by faith we call on Him, our humble prayer is heard. Questions to Ponder

This section offers some questions to think about, or for Sunday afternoon discussions, or to prompt future articles from our readers, etc. Readers are encouraged to offer questions. Question 1– Question 2– We notice in I Kings 18 some- John the Baptist died in prison thing fascinating about the prayer without having received any assur- of Elijah for rain, after the ance from God that he had performed drought: his task well or that God was pleased 1) God had already said He would with him. The faithful in Hebrews 11 send rain, if Elijah went to meet ―all died in faith, not having received Ahab. (chapter 18:1) the promises, but having seen them 2) Elijah still felt compelled to pray afar off and were persuaded of them, for the fulfillment of that promise. and embraced them, and confessed 3) Thirdly, Elijah continued to that they were strangers and pilgrims pray until he saw evidence of rain. on the earth.‖ (verse 13) Question: What lessons are there in Question: What level of personal as- this, concerning prayer? Is it possible surance should we be expecting, that that God not only is working out His we are pleasing to God, or that we are will, but desires to work through our doing the will of God? Are we discour- prayers? Do we pray as we ought? aged when God is silent? GENERAL ITEMS 23 General Items

BAPTISMS DISTRICT NOTICES Pennsylvania July 17, 2011; Ellensburg, WA Isaac Dyck The New Conference members re- July 31, 2011; Covington, OH siding in Pennsylvania and Maryland Braden Fisher have chosen Mt. Zion for their district July 31, 2011; Modesto, CA name. Brent Crawmer, Celine Narayan, Richard and Juanita Myers Megan Grover July 31, 2011; West Modesto, CA FINANCIAL REPORT Cody Crawmer and Laina Huffman 2011 ANNUAL CONFERENCE August 3, 2011; Stillwater, OH RECEIPTS: Daynon Brunk Balance from 2010 $ 26,952.95 NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED Donations for Conference $236,708.37 Interest $ 191.66 August 5, 2011; Dallas, OR TOTAL RECEIPTS: $263,852.98 Troy and Emily Landes, Anthony and Prisilla Hess EXPENSES: August 7, 2011; Mt. Zion, PA COA $ 3,434.34 Aaron and Geneva Miller Communion $ 5,467.49 Food (Cedarville) $ 152,155.30 COMMISSIONS Food Misc $ 350.02 Facilities Rent $ 27,621.31 July 29, 2011; Modesto, CA Lodging Misc $ 2,432.84 Cristopher Miller (and wife, Bethany) Nursery $ 69.27 Called to the office of Deacon Parking $ 1,404.00 July 29, 2011; Modesto, CA Preteens $ 2,166.17 Dean Crawmer (and wife, Amy) Young Folks $ 11,961.14 Advanced to the Second Degree of First Aid $ 925.54 the Ministry TOTAL EXPENSES: $207,987.42 August 5, 2011; Dallas, OR Troy Landes (and wife Emily) BALANCE: $ 55,865.56 Reinstated in the ministry retroac- Total lodging expense not included tive to their calling to the office in in this report: $ 92,100.73 October, 2005. PASTORAL COMMITTEE COMMUNION NOTICES Call for Funds Sept. 24, 2011 ... New Covenant Brethren, MI To meet the financial needs of Sept. 24, 2011 ...... Pleasant View, OH the areas of the brotherhood that Oct. 8, 2011 ...... Covington, OH have requested support, the Pas- Oct. 8, 2011 ...... Stillwater, OH toral Committee is asking for Oct. 15, 2011 ...... Kidron Valley, KS funds of $6.00 per member. Oct. 22, 2011 ...... Lower Twin, OH As soon as possible, we would Oct. 29, 2011 ...... Bethel, OH appreciate if the treasurer of each Oct. 29, 2011 ...... Maple Grove, OH congregation could send his dis- Nov. 5, 2011 ...... Columbia River, WA Nov. 5, 2011 ...... Eastern District, VA trict‘s contribution payable to: Nov. 12, 2011 ...... West Modesto, CA Calvin Durham March 17, 2012 ...... Fair Haven, KS March 17, 2012 ...... Dallas, OR 24 The Testimony September, 2011

NEW CONFERENCE Please make checks payable to, and CASP FUND send donations to: The Brotherhood Service Commit- Brethren Charity Fund tee is making preparation for a ―pilot project‖ as described in the CASP

Handbook you received this Spring. We are considering the first half of Please designate your donations 2012 for a suitable time to do this pro- specifically for New Conference ject. CASP Fund. As stated in the Handbook, there We feel very blessed with the over- will be not only physical and spiritual whelming support for the CASP pro- support needed, but also financial sup- gram that was shown this Spring and port. We are making the Brotherhood at our Annual Conference. We have aware of this pending financial need great anticipation of seeing this pro- so that anyone may contribute toward gram implemented in our brother- it as they feel led to do. We will make hood. You will receive further commu- a specific call for funds in the future nication as the 2012 ―pilot project‖ only as needed. develops. May all be done for the fur- We have agreed to set up a special thering of God‘s kingdom and for His fund within the Brethren Charity glory. Fund so that donations could remain anonymous and be tax-deductible. In behalf of the Brotherhood Service Committee Anyone desiring to donate to this fund may do so at any time. Larry Bower, Treasurer Poems

WHAT IS THE MEANING? What is the meaning of this life? Is it more than vicious strife? More than false fun and empty trust, More than fulfilling my own lusts? What is the meaning of the love, Shattered souls feel from above? Is it just fantasy inside, Or someplace safe where they can hide?

The meaning of this life is real! Jesus is waiting…to love and to heal; Sin-filled lives and broken hearts, He can destroy all Satan‘s darts. Don‘t let this life confuse you, Jesus will show you what is true. Gaze into His gentle eyes, Don‘t believe the devil‘s lies!

Evelyn Mohler

POEMS 25

MY LORD IS NEAR IN GOD IS OUR STRENGTH Author Unknown Helen Steiner Rice What room is there for troubling fear? It‘s a troubled world we live in, I know my Lord and He is near, And we wish that we might find And He will light my candle so Not only happiness of heart That I may see the way to go. But longed for peace of mind…

There need be no bewilderment But where can we begin our search To one who goes where he is sent, In an age of automation, The trackless plain, by night and day With neighbor against neighbor Is set with signs lest he should stray. And nation against nation?

My path may cross a waste of sea, Where values have no permanence But that need never frighten me— And change is all around, Or rivers full to the very brim, And everything is sinking sand But they are open ways to Him And nothing solid ground

My path may lead through wood at night, Have we placed our faith in leaders Where neither moon nor any light Unworthy of our trust? Of guiding star or beacon shines; Have we lost our own identities He will not let me miss my signs. And allowed our souls to rust?

Lord, grant to me a quiet mind, Have we forgotten Babylon and Egypt, Rome, and Greece, That, trusting Thee—for Thou art kind, And all the mighty rulers I may go on without a fear, Who lived by war—not peace? For Thou, my Lord, art always near.

Selected by Who built their thrones and empires Sarah Bowser On power and manmade things, And never knew God‘s greatness Or that He is King of Kings?

JESUS SAVES But we are God‘s Easter promise So let us seek a goal, He saved me from all my That opens up new vistas guilt and sin, For man‘s eternal soul. He saved me from my wrath within. For strength, and our security, He saved me from the depths Lie not in earthly things, of Hell, But in Christ the Lord who died for us He saved me, so that I can And rose as King of Kings. tell!! Selected by Written by: Nikita Turner Ruby Jamison

26 The Testimony September, 2011 THE VALLEY OF WEEPING THE BEAUTIFUL COLOR Psalm 84:4–6 OF LOVE

What color is God? I have passed through the Valley of Baca, The low, low valley of weeping. Ask the child with skin so fair, I‘ve cried all my sorrows and tears, Is He white like me? I‘ve filled a pool near full of them. Does He have light hair?

But His rain covered them with blessing, Is God dark like me? A sweet balm of Gilead. Asked the child of golden hue, Holding them in a well Has He hair that is dark and curly For a future use for His Glory. Are His eyes black or blue?

As another comes journeying along, I think God is red like me They are parched and falling down. The Indian boy is heard to say, I can draw from my well of tears To refresh and help them rise. He wears a crown of feathers And turns our night to day. I can pull up a bucket of experience, Mixed with His Grace from above; Each one of us knows that God is there Giving them a sustaining draught, In all the colors above, They can journey on, praising God. But be sure of this, the one color He is Is the beautiful color of love. I‘ve moved from that low Valley of Baca, I‘ve traveled to the mountain top. So when your soul goes to Heaven But I‘ve brought a carafe of refreshment When life come to it‘s end, For others who come journeying along. He will be waiting and His hand

Gloria Wright To you He will extend.

There will be no ―colors‖ in Heaven Everyone will be the same,

You will only be judged by your deeds and your faith, HE CANNOT HEAL Not the color of your name. He cannot heal who has not suffered much, So when your time for departure comes For only sorrow, sorrow understands; And you see God in Heaven above They will not come for healing Then you will see the only color that counts… at our touch The beautiful color of love. Who have not seen the scars upon our hands. Author Unknown Selected by Author Unknown Charlene Kessler Selected

POEMS 27 WHILE PASSING THE BREAD Father, it‘s evening time, and time to pass the bread, I‘m thinking now of Jesus and what He did and said. I think how in the Garden His heart cried out to Thee, He saw the painful burden He carried then for me. He saw the sin committed by men from then till now, And those that were committed. He saw the time was now. He looked into the cup again and groaned and cried aloud, O, Let this cup pass from me, but not my will, O Lord. I think how then on Calvary, He suffered physically, And yet I think the pain was worse He suffered spiritually. Indeed He bore my sins for me. All glory to His name. I need no longer fret and stew, His love is still the same. Oh, Father; help me every day, to come to You in prayer, Confessing all my sins to Thee, and help me leave them there. Oh, Jesus, Praise Your precious name, You died my soul to save. Oh, Lord, I have a plea of Thee. A closer walk I crave. Oh, help me as I daily go about the things I do, To constantly remember Thee, and be in prayer to You. I thank You and I praise You Lord, for all that You have done. I give my life my all to Thee, while here beneath the sun. Reuben J. Shankster

I THINK With soft quiet sigh, I toss it away, the news magazine with events of the day. In the silence of night, at the end of the day, I sit and I wonder at man‘s troubled way. I sit and I wonder at all that I read, of men and their coveting, wealth, and their greed. I sit and I think of the sweet siren call, of the world, it‘s treasures, the millions who fall.

I think of politicians, and all of their boasts. ―The world will be safer. Just give me the post!‖ Beauticians are crying, ―Come try my wares! You will be happy, just by fixing your hair.‖ I think of musicians, with all their renditions, dreams that are deluded, minds and souls in perdition. So with a soft quiet sigh, I‘ve tossed it away, and I sit and ponder at the end of the day.

I think, ―They‘ll never get it right.‖ For like blind leading blind, they grope in the night. They weary themselves, and shut out the day. While hoarding up treasures of stubble and hay. Their children are crying, their lives incomplete, they‘re crying for love… iniquity they meet. Oh, for his soul what will a man give? Oh, that to Jesus all would come; and Live!

Galen Mohler

28 The Testimony September, 2011 BREAKING BARRIERS I see their faces, look in their innocent Oh, Father, help us recognize eyes Unspoken pleas. They‘re just children from the outside Give strength to scale the walls I‘m working hard, I tell myself they‘ll that rise be fine …Down on our knees! They‘re independent But on the inside, I can hear them Lord, give the patience that we saying… lack Until You send ―Lead me with strong hands Your Spirit through that small, Stand up when I can‘t small crack Don‘t leave me hungry for love To apprehend. Chasing dreams, but what about us?

And then as You expand within Show me you‘re willing to fight Those walls of pain— That I‘m still the love of your life Break down the barriers and win I know we call this our home That soul again! But I still feel alone‖

Let arms of welcome open wide So Father, give me the strength Your child embrace! To be everything I‘m called to be Your love and wisdom be their Oh, Father, show me the way guide To lead them. To grow in grace. Won‘t You lead me?

Irene Cover To lead them with strong hands To stand up when they can‘t Don‘t want to leave them hungry for love, LEAD ME Chasing things that I could give up. I look around and see my wonderful life Almost perfect from the outside I‘ll show them I‘m willing to fight In picture frames I see my beautiful wife And give them the best of my life Always smiling So we can call this our home But on the inside, I can hear her saying… Lead me, ‗cause I can‘t do this alone

―Lead me with strong hands Stand up when I can‘t Father, lead me, ‗cause I can‘t do this Don‘t leave me hungry for love alone. Chasing dreams, what about us? Sanctus Real Show me you‘re willing to fight Selected by That I‘m still the love of your life Justin Filbrun I know we call this our home But I still feel alone‖ OBITUARIES 29 Obituaries

MARCONETT — Luther W. Sr. Dad was blessed with good health youngest child of Daniel and Stella much of his life, never complaining of (Mullen) Marconett was born on Oc- sickness. He suffered a stroke in the tober 25, 1922, in Stanislaus County, fall of 1999 and his health started to near Modesto, California, and de- decline through the years with hospi- parted this life on April 28, 2011, at talizations and short term nursing Hospice of Dayton surrounded by his home care. He was hospitalized on family, making his sojourn on earth April 3, 2011, for a pressure wound 88 years, 6 months and 3 days. At needing surgery due to diabetes. He the age of 15 years, he felt the call of called for the anointing the evening the Lord and was baptized into the before his surgery and received much fellowship of the Old German Baptist comfort from it. He developed pneu- Brethren Church, Modesto District monia from which he was unable to on December 5, 1937, to which he recover from and with many of his remained faithful until death. On family gathered around his bedside, September 3, 1949, he was united in he peacefully changed time here for marriage with Mildred E Avery at eternity with our Lord. the home of the bride, near Dayton, Left to mourn his passing are his Ohio. They spent their first year of loving companion of 61 years; 3 sons, married life in Modesto, California L. Warren (Cathy), Clifford, and P. and shortly after the birth of their Douglas (Brenda); 2 daughters, Bo- newborn son, the family moved to nita, and Marietta (Paul) Rogers; 11 Ohio where he spent his remaining grandchildren, and 9 great- years. Dad enjoyed speaking of his grandchildren; and numerous nieces many memories of his native state as and nephews and relatives. He was he spoke of California. preceded in death by his parents; 2 Dad spent many years employed at brothers, Ralph D., and Lloyd R. the Gem City Ice Cream Company in Marconett; 4 sisters, Nellie Vivian Dayton, Ohio until he had to take an Gish, twin infants, Ruth and Ruby, early retirement and then kept busy and Eunice Negus Ratliff; and a son, with egg and produce routes in the Robert Joseph in 1954. Dayton area. His life long hobby and A short prayer service was held love of fishing was instilled in his fam- on May 2, 2011, at the Rogers Fu- ily early with many family fishing neral Home, New Lebanon, Ohio, outings which we will always have with funeral services following at many fond memories of. the Wolf Creek meetinghouse by Dad also enjoyed record keeping the home brethren, with Bro. Glenn and statistics on many subjects. Later Mohler having the message. He was in life he was very interested in his laid to rest beside his young son at family‘s genealogy and spent many the Tressel Cemetary. Hymns 510, enjoyable hours researching and get- 459, 498, and 499 were sung while ting to know distant relatives. the grave was being filled. 30 The Testimony September, 2011

We feel our loss is his eternal gain. parents, Arthur and Marie; a brother, We trust in the promise that Dad has Robert Metzger; and three sisters, gone to a place where there is no more Erma Metzger, Lois Meador, and death and no more pain. Velma Bean Zimmerman. Remaining The Family to share in many precious memories are her two daughters, Kenlynn (D.A.) Peters, and Mary Ann (Dale) SELBY — Martha (Leona), Sink; her twin sister, Leora (Gilbert) daughter of Arthur and Marie Wagoner; seven grandchildren, Don- (Wagoner) Metzger was born Novem- nelle (Ryan) Arrington, David (Katie) ber 11, 1929, near Cerro Gordo, Illi- Peters, Matt (Suzanne) Peters, nois. She departed this life on June Stephen (Heidi) Sink, Stephany 14, 2011, in her home with her family (Chris) Mohler, Michael (Beth) Sink, at her bedside at the age of 81 years, 7 and Michelle (Kenton) Filbrun; six months, and 3 days. g r e a t - grandsons, one great- Feeling the need for salvation, granddaughter; two sisters-in-law, Mother accepted the Lord Jesus Clara Selby and Barbara Metzger; Christ as her Savior and was bap- three brothers-in-law, Duane Meador, tized as a young woman on August Raymond Peters, and Melvin (Ruth) 1, 1948. She was a lifelong member Selby; and many nieces, nephews, of the Old German Baptist Brethren dear friends and neighbors. Fellowship. On April 3, 1955 she We as a family have grown much was united in marriage with Elmer closer through Mother‘s illness, and (Doc) Selby. Together they made she will be greatly missed. We rejoice their home in Modesto, California, knowing she is with her Lord and will for 31 years. This union was blessed have no more pain or disappointment. with two daughters. In 1986, Dad We look forward to the day of that and Mother moved from their home blessed reunion with all God‘s chil- in California to North Hampton, dren. May His Holy Name be praised. Ohio. Mother later moved to Pleas- Funeral services were held at the ant Hill after Dad‘s passing in 2002. Donnels Creek meeting house on June th Mother enjoyed being in her kitchen 16 with the burial following at Myers and working in her flower garden. Cemetery in North Hampton, Ohio. Many friends and family were Randy Garber, Curt Selby, Bruce Lan- blessed by these labors of love. des and Duane Flora spoke words of In February of 2011, Mother was comfort and encouragement to the diagnosed with cancer. Remembering family and friends present from Psalm th the promise in James 5, she called for 46 with the 10 verse ―be still and and received the anointing surrounded know that I am God‖ being the theme. by her family. This, along with the Realizing that our loss is Mother‘s many cards, phone call, visits, and eternal gain, we look forward with singings, brought her much comfort. great joy in our hearts to our family Preceding her in death was her being reunited in Heaven. husband of 47 years, Doc Selby; her The Family OBITUARIES 31

KINZIE — Frances Margaret, beginning at the Walnut Creek Dis- daughter of George J. and Goldie May trict in Missouri and in later years at (Maxwell) White was born June 4, the Lower Twin District of Ohio. She 1924, in Kansas City, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her hus- died peacefully at her home near Cam- band, her parents, her oldest child den, Ohio, on Sunday, July 17, 2011, Leon, and Leon‘s wife Jane. at the age of eighty-seven years, one She is survived by her sister: Anna month, and thirteen days. Jo Howard of Leeton, Missouri; her Frances was married to Paul Wil- daughter, Barbara and husband Ron liam Kinzie on October 15, 1944. To Knaus; her son, Lloyd and wife Kath- this union were born two sons and two lene, all of Camden, Ohio; her daugh- daughters. She and her companion ter, Beverly and husband Tim Cassidy accepted God‘s offered terms of mercy of Eaton, Ohio; ten grandchildren, and and were baptized on October 15, seventeen great-grandchildren. 1950. She was a member of the Old German Baptist Brethren Church, The Family

IN HIM ―We dwell in Him,‖ — oh, everlasting Home, Imperishable House not made with hands! When all the world has melted as a dream, Eternal in the heavens this dwelling stands. Annie Johnson Flint

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The Testimony is a Christian publi- restore and maintain a fellowship of cation intended for those who desire true primitive Christianity through nourishment in their spiritual walk, the communication of all good things. and for writers who wish to express Send all communication to: witness to the Truth of the Gospel as experienced in their own lives. It The Testimony holds the Holy Scriptures to be its 353 Billman Rd. only Creed. Its purpose is to bear New Paris, OH 45347-9102 witness to the Truth of God‘s Word Phone: (937) 437-4685 as it is applied in the daily life of [email protected] committed Christians. It supports the anabaptist and pietist founda- tions of the Brethren of Schwar- The Testimony Committee zenau, Germany (1708) including the Roger Rapp biblical principle of the community of Kenneth Hopkins believers bound by a confession of Lowell Miller, Editor faith in the Lord Jesus confirmed by Dean Kinsley adult immersion baptism (Mark Gary Peters 16:16). It strives to promote a life of Associate Editors true living piety among all who con- Marcus Miller fess Jesus as their Lord. It seeks to Darryl Filbrun