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2 • VOTC • February 2011 CON Dear Friends, Welcome to this month’s issue of Voice of the Covenant! Here we are, already in February, and moving forward GOD RESPONDS TO with great expectation and great faith to reach people and WORDS OF FAITH change lives with the love of Christ. Our determination PART 2 and passion to “Go ye into all the world and preach the Jesse Duplantis TE Gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15), has reached a new 4 intensity and we won’t stop until every soul has heard the Good News! N Voice of the Covenant magazine has been successfully bringing the Gospel to people for over 30 years. It has god’s will is T taken great faith and love to grow this anointed magazine outreach from only 200 hidden for you, S households in our first mailing in 1981 to the now 380,000 going into 160 nations not from you every month. Praise God! This ministry tool is effectively reaching and transforming Cathy Duplantis lives all over the world. And as this outreach grows, so does God’s family! 12 We pray this issue will encourage your walk with Christ and that you will share it with someone you love. Together, we can love more people than we could on our own. Remember, God so loved the world, that He gave up His only Son so we could live with Him forever (John 3:16). Let’s join hands and love the world for God—we CAN YOU can get this world saved! HEAR ME NOW? Corey Naquin We love you, 20 – Jesse and Cathy

Mean girls need love, too Jodi Duplantis 22 Salvation prayer Visionary Leadership: If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, I would like to take this Increase the opportunity to introduce you to the greatest Friend you’ll ever have. As you say these kingdom, words, if you’ll believe them with your heart, you will be born again (Romans 10:9-10). love always! Jesse Duplantis Jesus, come into my life. Forgive me of all my sins. I ask You to cleanse my 30 heart, and make me a new person in You right now. I believe that You are the Son of God and that You died on the cross for me. ALSO... Jesus, I want to thank You for loving me enough to die for me. I accept all that • MEETING SCHEDULE 10 Your shed blood bought for me on the cross, and I receive You as my Savior • PRODUCT SPECIALS 16 and Lord. In Your name I pray. Amen. • COVENANT PRAISE 18 If you just prayed this prayer, congratulations! You are a “new creature” in Christ and, as 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “…old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” All of Heaven is celebrating! You have a brand new life with Vol. 33 No. 2 FEBRUARY 2011 Jesus and a bright future filled with faith and hope. Publisher Editorial Staff Graphic Design Jesse Duplantis Jodi Duplantis & Production Michael Wright II Jorge Gomez Jr It is important that you let someone know of your decision to follow Christ and we Editor Corey Naquin Victor Gonzalez would love to hear from you! You can use the top portion of the envelope/order form Cathy Duplantis Christine Bartley Josue Gomez Mary Holten in the center of this magazine to do so. We would also like to send you a free copy Jo Ann Freeney Dondra DeSalvo of our booklet, Understanding Salvation, to help you begin your new life with Jesus Christ. Just let us know if you would like the English or Spanish version. Remember, Voice of the Covenant is published monthly by Jesse Duplantis Ministries, a non-profit corporation, PO Box 1089, Destrehan, LA 70047. Christ is thinking about you and He only wants the best for your life. God bless you! Phone: 985.764.2000 Fax: 985.764.0044 E-mail: [email protected]. Voice of the Covenant has no subscription or newsstand price in the United States and is supported through contributions from readers worldwide. All donations to this ministry are tax-deductible. – Jesse Duplantis Visit our website at www.jdm.org ©2011 Jesse Duplantis Ministries, all rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. jdm.org • ­­­3 God Responds To Words of

FaithPart 2

by Jesse Duplantis

avid had a woman on kicked up real high that he is going backside of the mountain tending his mind when he threw to get a woman if he slays a giant sheep and playing his own psalmic down the cheese and and not expect him to rise to the version of “Stairway to Heaven” Dstarted mouthing off at a giant. occasion. while his big, bad brothers talked “What’ll I get if I kill ‘em?” he “You mean to tell me that I’m of slaying giants, marrying the asked his brothers. Like a typical gonna get a woman? Me?” king’s daughter, and wearing a teenager, David was interested in “The king’s daughter, yeah. But crown. Sure, Samuel had anointed making a little something on the you? No. Stop gawking and go him with enough oil to grease an side. home.” engine, but his father and brothers “The king’s daughter, you fool. David started daydreaming…A couldn’t have cared less. They Now give us the cheese and bread woman? Man, I’d kick a giant’s tail were happy to keep him on the Dad sent you here with and get out for one of those—and the king’s girl at mountain working with the sheep of here. You just came to see the that? Take a look at that! Whew! where they didn’t have to hear his battle.” David was the youngest of the baaaallads. Now, you don’t tell a seventeen- family—the red-haired teenage But that day, David wasn’t on a year-old boy with his hormones musician who stayed on the mission to simply bring food to his 4 • VOTC • February 2011 brothers; he was on a mission from God, and he had Now, his motive was wrong on one hand—the no idea that Israel’s adversity was about to crown him boy wanted a woman and was willing to die at the king. chance of getting one. He was probably already “Come over here and whip me if you can, you contemplating lyrics for his next song, “Ohhhh, my bunch of wimps!” the Philistine giant roared. David love, my darling, I’ve hungered for your touch...” and watched as the giant wagged his big, microwave-sized imagining her response, “Sing to me David. Sing to head at the Israelites. About a hundred and twenty- me David. You want to kiss me? Yeah, you want to five pounds of metal gleamed in the sun as the giant kiss me. Come over here, David!” waved his arms around and cussed everything from But God noticed the anointing that was on David God to the ground. and said, “Here is somebody that will stand in the David was appalled at his brother’s lack of gap. Here is somebody that is not trembling back in enthusiasm. “Are you going to sit there and let him the tent. Here is somebody that is aggravated that pop off like that?” he asked his brothers, “Are you someone is cussing Me!” gonna let that uncircumcised Philistine defile the All of a sudden, the anointing of God that was armies of God and cuss us like that?” poured on David by Samuel rose up. Courage swelled He could see it in their eyes, “He’s a giant, David! in him and although he couldn’t fit the armor, he Now get out of here so we can figure out what we’re didn’t care. He was willing to go out as he was because going to do.” he knew without a shadow of doubt that God was on But David wouldn’t leave. He couldn’t believe that his side. From his spirit came courage so fierce that his brothers didn’t have the guts to walk out there and it bypassed his mind, and David shouted out to the kick the tar out of Goliath. He started scanning the giant, “You come against me with a spear, but I come ground for a decent rock. against you in the name of the Lord God Jehovah!” “You blankety-blank, no-good, trashy bunch of To the others, it was a threat, but to David it was Israelites!” he heard the giant go on, “I defy your a promise. He grabbed a rock from the dirt, put it in blankety-blank God and you! I curse your blankety- his slingshot, and started swirling it in the air. David blank, too!” had been rocking on the mountain for years, now he He looked at his brothers and the nearby soldiers was about to rock out a giant in front of all his big, and could read their mind. Uh, that’s okay. Just curse ugly buddies. Goliath saw the red hair and recognized all you want there, Goliath! they thought as they stared the stature. A lousy teenager, he thought and laughed at Goliath’s big microwave of a head and thought of and shouted at the soldiers, “Is this whatcha’ got, boys? living another day. “Uh, you want to try fighting him You wanna throw rocks?” He shook his head, looked next, Ralph?” somebody in the tent said. But nobody at David and spat, “I’m going to pick the flesh off of moved. Fear had them by the jugular and they were your bones, boy, and feed you to the birds!” practically soiling their robes trying to figure out what “Bring it on, big man. I am going to feed to do. your carcass to the birds. I am going to cut your “Ahhh! You bunch of losers. You call yourself microwave-sized head off and play ball. You God’s blankety-blank people, but you’re nothing but understand me? I want to let you know what’s about a bunch of puny wimps. Come on over here if you’re to go down, you uncovenanted, uncircumcised, God- man enough and I’ll knock the blank out of you in a cussing fool!” blankety-blank-blank second!” Now, I’ll be over to you in just a minute, little lady, David couldn’t take it another minute. “I’ll fight he thought as he considered the king’s daughter, Yep, this idiot today!” he hollered. just hang on, baby. I’m coming to getcha’! His brothers shouted back, “Shut up! Go back to David began to run. Whirling his sling in the air, your stinking sheep and stop fooling around.” he ran towards the giant with all his might—the sling “No! I’ll put him down! I don’t see you guys whirling harder and harder in circles. walking out there. Why not give me a shot?” David Foom! David released the rock. The Holy Spirit said as he thought, Yeah, this giant cannot win against guided it as it flew through the air. my God. And I get the king’s daughter if I kill him…and Pow! It knocked the giant right between the eyes it’s legal! Dad can’t take her away either because it’s the and he began to drop. king’s rule! Thump! Goliath’s big head hit the ground. All jdm.org • ­­­5 the oxygen was sucked out of the air that day as the I believe that God didn’t create crowd gasped at the sight of the giant on the ground. David didn’t wait. He kept running until he got to Adam to be silent—He gave Goliath’s body and climbed on his chest like it was a him life so that he might stage, hollering, “I said he would go down, and he is down. Nobody can come against my God and win!” speak. He gave him authority Suddenly, David reached down for Goliath’s so that he might crush the heavy sword, pulled his giant head up at the perfect angle, and started sawing away. Then, David grabbed works of the devil. the head by the hair, lifted it up for all to see and said, “Now this is how you get ahead in life, right from the dust of the ground and breathed the breath here!” of life into his nostrils. One translation says he This story is a paraphrase of what actually became a speaking spirit. A friend of mine spoke this happened to David the day that he stopped being just and it went off in my heart. I believe that God didn’t a sheep-watching musician and started being Israel’s create Adam to be silent—He gave him life so that he king, as told in 1 Samuel 17:1-58. Although Samuel might speak. He gave him authority so that he might anointed David as king before the big event, it was crush the works of the devil. really Goliath who made him the king in the eyes of His first job was to name the animals. What was the people. His triumph showed all of Israel the power God saying by asking him to do that? I believe He of God’s anointing, and what could be done if you are was saying, “Speak spirit! Call it and it shall be done.” willing to trust God and stand up for righteousness. He wanted man to take part in creation and to use You see, it doesn’t matter how small or words just like He had. insignificant you think you are. If you are a believer, Instead of “Let there be light,” man was saying, then you are a threat to the devil and all his works. “Let it be a chicken! Let there be cows! Let there be Your adversity has the potential to crown you king, if elephants, lizards, and lions!” Naming the animals you let it. But you’ve got be bold enough to speak up wasn’t a job for an idiot. Do you know how many and not take the devil’s attacks lying down. Don’t be species God created? More than we probably know like David’s brothers who were sitting back in fear and of today. But Adam saw and named every single complaining about their circumstances rather than one. That job was a big responsibility given to a very getting up and putting up a fight. David’s fight began valuable creation—the speaking spirit. with an inner indignation that a giant would have the Soon, the Scripture records how God said it was gall to mock God’s children. Your fight will begin the not good for man to be alone and created a female. same way when you become indignant at the devil’s The fact that God chose the rib shows He meant for attempts to steal, kill, and destroy your life. women to be working side-by-side with man. What When the devil attacks you and tries to make a I want you to notice is that God called both of them mockery of your God, it’s in your best interest to stand Adam. Why? Because the female “Adam” was also up and say, “Oh no you will not! You are coming against created in God’s image. She had the breath of life a child of God, devil, and I’m not standing for this.” within her and she was a speaking spirit, too! Samuel anointed David; Jesus anointed you. David When God called the woman Adam, He was had a rock; you have The Rock, Jesus Christ—and proving her spiritual equality. I believe He was saying your very salvation has given you the authority to put exactly what He said to Adam: “Speak spirit! What the devil in his place. When you allow God’s Words you will say will come to pass. The creative force that made My male live, breathe, and speak with authority to come sailing out of your mouth, you’re going to see is the very same creative force dwelling in you.” that giant in your life fall to the ground. Now, I’ve met many women in my years of ministry that were treated like second class citizens Any Speaking Spirit Can Do It! in the church. That never should be because although Anybody can believe and confess Jesus as Lord the fall of man happened and the curse came into the and be saved. Anybody can speak the Word in faith earth, Jesus redeemed us from the curse and has made and see results. In the beginning, God formed Adam women and men equal in God’s sight. 6 • VOTC • February 2011 “…There is neither male nor female; for ye are all to fit their own egotistical views. But the original one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). It is Christ that Greek for the word “aner” that Paul used works for unites us. Some people don’t believe that a woman man or husband. The Greek word “gune” can be should be able to preach, but I do. Eve was just a translated either woman or wife. Not every man was a name that Adam used. God called her Adam. So what husband, and not every woman was a wife. So you’ve am I going to do? Say that God can’t talk through the got to look at the situation around the Scripture to female Adam? No way! Women are powerful creatures determine what the Bible is saying. made in God’s image and created to speak His Word with authority. They can feed us physically, so why can’t they feed us spiritually? Women are powerful Order in the Church...at creatures made in God’s Corinth! image and created to speak Paul’s book of Corinthians was a letter to a His Word with authority. church that was out of line on many issues. Paul didn’t hate women; he was just trying to bring some They can feed us physically, social order to the family and the church. There were so why can’t they feed us many cultural differences, too. Christianity was brand new and they were spiritually? working out the kinks on order in the church services. Although the women were allowed in the service, they were separated by sex. These gatherings There were women in the Bible who were called would have seemed very informal compared to prophetesses and the Apostles recognized certain traditional Jewish services. Some theologians say women by name that were in ministry. If you research, that if a wife had something to say to her husband you’ll find God often led women to say and do His during the service, she might just shout out across the will…out loud and in front of everybody. church. Think if a woman in your church would see So I say, “Girls, preach the Gospel! Sing the her husband across the sanctuary and stand up and go, Gospel! Witness! Disciple! Do what God has called “Psst! Hey, Harry! Ask Ralph where he got that coat.” you to do!” If some fool says, “I don’t want you If that were going on, the preacher would have usurping authority over men,” tell him, “I’m not to set down some rules, right? Paul even had to tell usurping anything. I’m a speaking spirit and made in them not to speak with other tongues in the middle His image. God has called me to His service and I of the service, too. They’d just interrupt the message cannot disobey, so take it up with Him!” to pray in tongues. He had to say, “Look, you can’t do that. Unless it’s a word from God and there is an Mary Spoke and Jesus Came interpreter, keep silent.” Was he saying we should It took a woman to get Jesus here. His mother, never pray in tongues in church? No! He was simply Mary, was just a teenager when an angel of God giving direction to keep order. showed up to tell her that she was going to have a When he taught women to “be silent” in church, baby. But even though she was young, God cared it was a direct order to the Corinthian church because about what she had to say. of their disorderly conduct. The church service wasn’t In Luke 1:30-34, you find that Mary found favor a question and answer session, so he didn’t want them with God. But when the angel told her that she’d to shout out. That would be applied if there were a conceive and bare a son, Mary put the breaks on. She problem with order in the church today. But it doesn’t was a girl with common sense and even though she mean women shouldn’t ever speak in the church. was looking at an angel, she thought, Whoa! Wait a Some men are afraid that a woman will “usurp” minute. That can’t happen. I haven’t been messing around. authority over them if they speak or preach better Then the angel said, ‘The Holy Ghost is going to than they do. They use Paul’s teachings out of context come upon you and you are going to conceive and jdm.org • ­­­7 bare a child. You’re going to call Him Emanuel, which in response to the temptations? ‘Get out of here, you means God with us’ (paraphrase of Luke 1:35). low-class, fallen, angelic fool. I rebuke you! The Word What did Mary do at this point? She considered says not to tempt God.’ Temptation after temptation what the angel said and “spiritualized” her common came, but Jesus didn’t cave in. sense by agreeing with the angel and speaking. Jesus had spiritualized common sense and He “…Be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). wasn’t about to perform magic tricks for the devil to Jesus couldn’t have been born unless Mary spoke prove His divinity. Instead, He chose to simply speak a word of agreement. Even though it was God’s will the Word. Why? Because He knew in the midst of for her life, Mary had to say it was OK or it wouldn’t great temptation, only the Word would keep Him have happened. What was God doing? Waiting for stable and secure. So He used it consistently. her words! She agreed and, nine months later, Jesus was born in a manger. Was He poor? No! They had money Your Words Must Be Consistent for the Inn, but there was no room for them. The Daniel was an Old Testament man who spoke the place was jammed full. Still, Jesus had three rich Word, too. He had a vision and consistently sought guys looking for Him and it wasn’t long before gold, God about it. God heard his words and sent an angel frankincense, and myrrh were placed at His tiny feet. who said this: “…Fear not, Daniel: for from the first And it all started because of words. day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words” (Daniel 10:12). Spiritualized Common Sense Do you know how old Daniel was when he had The devil doesn’t agree with God’s Word, so he the vision? Ninety-two years old! You see, God doesn’t just has common sense. But those who agree with care if you’re twelve or one hundred and twelve—He’ll God’s Word and use it in their lives have what I like come for your words because you are an important to call “spiritualized” common sense. Jesus displayed speaking spirit and He is moved by your faith. this when the devil came to tempt Him. The devil Even though he didn’t see immediate results, didn’t recognize Jesus as Messiah and asked him, ‘If Daniel “chastened” himself and continued to pray. you’re really the Son of God, do something. Turn this When the angel came, he let Daniel know that he’d bread to stone. Jump off the side of the mountain and been held back for a reason. There was a battle going see if the angels catch you—do something so we’ll on in the spirit. The angel said, ‘Man! Daniel, you are know it’s You’ (paraphrase of Matthew 4:3, 6). greatly loved by God. I had to beat off a couple devils to get here and tell you so, but, nevertheless, here I am. You’re gonna get what you need, boy! You’re like a You see, God doesn’t care if pit bull on a bone when it comes to what you say, and that’s why I’m here.’ you’re twelve or one hundred Why didn’t the angels just give up in the heat of and twelve—He’ll come for the battle? Because Daniel didn’t give up. The angels continued to fight because Daniel continued to speak. your words because you are When you are habitual, uniform, and consistent in an important speaking spirit speaking the Word, it will be an everlasting reminder and He is moved to the angels to keep on coming. by your faith. Sound Words Produce Spiritual Stability Notice that the devil asked Jesus to do something God doesn’t send angels for stupid words or words he could see. Why? Because he’s not a faith devil; he of doubt and fear. He comes for sound words of faith. is a flesh devil. He’d been trying to kill the Messiah That’s why the Bible tells us to,“Hold fast the form for years and was wondering, Is this Him? We messed up of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith on the last ones. Let’s make sure. But what did Jesus say and love which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 1:13). In 8 • VOTC • February 2011 other words, be passionate about holding onto those come across your path. You can recognize the heart of Words—they’re going to keep you secure. the message and not be tossed to and fro by those false I’m a secure man. My wife, Cathy, has been trying systems of religion that bring confusion. The pure and to get me to change my hairstyle for over 30 years. unadulterated Word brings peace and clarity. I said, “Cathy, I am going to tell you something and Does God love you? Yes! Does He want the best this is the last time I am going to tell you this. I am for you? Yes! Is the devil fighting you? Yes! Did Jesus like God; I change not.” It’s a joke, but she gets the die to give you authority over ALL the devil’s works? point. I don’t care if my hairstyle is out of style. Who Yes! Is His Word enough to make the devil flee? Yes! dictates that stuff anyway? I don’t live my life for other Are you going to pick up your Sword and use it? Yes! people. And besides, that’s just too much work. The It’s the Word you say that will put angels to work. It’s world and its ideas can cause instability in your life. your consistency that will keep them coming when They flip-flop over what they think and believe from they are fighting spiritual battles. one day to the next, but God’s Word never changes. So I stick with the Word because it changes not. I like what I like, and that’s it. Now, you can quote the Word all day long, but it’s It’s the Word you say that what is in you that will get the angels moving. Some will put angels to work. It’s people just speak the Word, but they don’t believe the Word. Believing and speaking work together. “How your consistency that will do I get my mind and spirit to line up, Brother Jesse?” keep them coming when they Hear the Word. Read it. Listen to it. Get it in your ears regularly so you can think right regularly. That’s are fighting spiritual battles. how you “spiritualize” your common sense. Faith is a choice. You can say, “This may not make sense to the natural mind, but it makes perfect There is no need to give up on your faith in the heat sense in the spiritual realm. I’m going to believe God of adversity. God is on your side. Sure, wrong situations because His ways are higher and better. Angels will happen in life, but it’s the rightness of God’s Word that come when I speak His Word.” will bring about justice. So a clear knowledge of right When doubt rises up, doubt it! Your mind may is essential, and you get that through reading the Word say, “That’s not going to happen.” Don’t listen to your and focusing on God’s ways of doing things. It’s only mind. Speak spirit! Let your spirit override your mind, by knowing what is right that you can recognize and and use your mouth to confirm it. Say, “I doubt that expose what is wrong. doubt! The Word says....” Then, quote the Scripture Satan is a liar. He’s a mocker. He’ll try and make you’re standing on to yourself. Encourage your own you feel small and insignificant. But, remember, you mind with the truth of God’s Word. It’ll stabilize you can be like David—you can watch that mocking giant and stop doubt and confusion in its tracks. fall. You can be like Daniel—you can stare death in the eye and say, “I don’t care what you do or say, I’m following my God.” Reject Adulterations of the Word You can hear God’s voice and be like Mary and People are always asking me theological questions say, “I don’t understand, but I agree. Let it be done about this or that. They get off on tangents and forget according to Thy Word.” the main message of the Word. They start adulterating Thank God for Jesus. He’s your Savior and it’s the message by mixing in their own negative ideas through His blood and the word of your testimony about this or that. Then they get all confused and ask that you will overcome (Revelation 12:11). So, me about it. My response is to go back to the Word whatever you’re believing God for today, speak the and put the “spiritualized” back into your common Word. Be consistent. Be passionate. Remember that sense. What does God say? What is the message angels are on their way. They’re busting through the behind the Word? devil’s blockades, but they’re coming nevertheless. When you’ve got the soundness of God’s Word in So hold on and continue to speak, spirit. Angels are you, you can reject those adulterations of the Word that coming for your words! a jdm.org • ­­­9 Jesse’s Preaching schedule

Bakersfield, CA Shreveport, LA Alexandria, LA February 1 (7:00pm) February 20 (10:30am) March 20 (10:00am) Oasis Christian Center Celebration Church Christian Worship Center Double Tree Hotel LSUS University Center Theatre 6101 Masonic Dr • 318.448.4500 3100 Camino Del Rio Ct One University Place • 318.828.1348 www.christianworshipcenter.com 661.322.4152 www.celebrationpeople.org Decatur, GA March 22 (7:00pm) Ontario, CA Jacksonville, FL February 2 (7:00pm) TBN February 23 (7:00pm) Praise the Lord Taping Echos of Faith World Faith Christian Center Outreach Ministries 1550 Agape Way • 404.288.1156 8985 Lone Star Rd • 904.725.3636 www.tbn.org 11255 Central Ave • 909.627.0927 www.fccjax.com www.go2eof.com Washington, MO March 23 (7:00pm) W. Monroe, LA Kahului, Maui, HI Living Bread Church February 4 February 27 (6:00pm) 6906 W Hwy 100 • 636.239.5944 (See ad next page) King’s Cathedral 777 Mokulele Hwy • 808.871.7311 www.livingbread.us www.kingscathedral.com Willis, TX Grand Junction, CO February 8 (7:00pm) March 27 (7:00pm) Family Faith Church Hilo, HI Faith Heights Church Winter Conference 2011 March 1 (6:30pm) 600 28 ¼ Rd • 970.245.3755 202 S Thomason St • 936.291.9458 Glad Tidings Assembly of God www.faithheights.com www.familyfaith.ws 113 Kuawa • 808.961.0616 www.gladtidingshilo.com Amarillo, TX Clermont, FL March 29 (7:00pm) February 9 (7:00pm) Arena of Life Cowboy Church Celebration of Praise Church of God Honolulu, HI 2011 Spring Camp Meeting 3700 S US Hwy 27 • 352.394.2855 March 6 (9:00am, 11:00am & 6:00pm) 8827 S Washington St • 806.622.8000 www.celebrationofpraise.net Word of Life Christian Center www.amarillocowboychurch.org 544 Queen St • 808.528.4044 Stafford, TX www.wordoflifehawaii.com February 13 (10:30am) Scheduling changes do occur. Family Worship Center N. Miami Beach, FL Please visit us online at 910 Brand Ln • 281.499.0551 March 18 www.jdm.org or call 985-764-2000 www.thefwc.org (See ad next page) before traveling to any meeting.

10 • VOTC • February 2011 Mark your Calendar for 2011 Special Friday Events with jesse and cathy duplantis February 4 March 18 June 17 W. Monroe, LA N. Miami Beach, FL Little Rock, AR The Assembly Words of Life Fellowship Church Agape Church 715 Cypress St 20051 NE 16 Ave 701 Napa Valley Dr 10:00am Cathy and Jesse 10:30am Cathy and Jesse 10:00am Cathy and Jesse 7:00pm Jesse Duplantis 7:30pm Jesse Duplantis 7:00pm Jesse Duplantis August 19 Nashville, TN Faith Is The Victory Church Come Meet Jesse and Cathy in Person 3344 Walton Ln Product Signing Following Each Service 10:00am Cathy and Jesse 7:00pm Jesse Duplantis

I n te r n a ti o n a l m eeti n g s May 11 May 13 May 15 Galway, Ireland Bath, England London, England Abundant Life More details to come More details to come Christian Centre

May 12 May 14 Ballymena, N. Ireland Bristol, England Living Rivers Church More details to come For updated information regarding these events, go to jdm.org or call 985-764-2000 jdm.org • ­­­11 God’s Will is Hidden ForYou, Not From You

By Cathy Duplantis

raveling in a different city is Your Christian walk is a lot like you daily spend time in His presence, a great learning experience. that highway. There is no reason for He is able to reveal His path for your Road construction, detours, you to go around in circles and never life. The Holy Spirit wants to direct one-wayT streets, no left turn and reach your destination. Jesus said, each step that you take and be your no U-turn signs make it impossible “But I tell you the truth, it is to your personal guide. to reach your destination without advantage that I go away; for if I do not In John 16:13-14 (AMP), Jesus stopping for directions. go away, the Helper shall not come to gave us this powerful promise: “But It is wonderful when someone is you; but if I go, I will send Him to you” when He, the Spirit of Truth (the able to direct you to the precise place ( John 16:7, NASB). Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will that you need to be. Suddenly, what No matter what you are facing, guide you into all the Truth (the whole, seemed impossible only moments regardless of the impossibility of it, full Truth). For He will not speak His before is no longer a problem. you can know the will of God for own message [on His own authority]; Confidence and expectation fill your your life and see it come to pass. but He will tell whatever He hears heart when you know you are on the When you don’t know which way to [from the Father; He will give the right highway moving toward your turn, or if you lose your way, just stop message that has been given to Him], destination. and ask God for directions. When and He will announce and declare to

12 • VOTC • February 2011 you the things that are to come [that will exist in the natural, the Holy Spirit we found out that the owners had happen in the future]. said, “Cathy, I have not hidden a overlooked a previous purchase offer “He will honor and glorify Me building from you, I have hidden it of $475,000.00 from a group of because He will take of (receive, draw for you!” From that day, I had such doctors that were renting space in upon) what is Mine and will reveal a wonderful peace about the whole the building. When we introduced (declare, disclose, transmit) it to you.” project. Although I could not see it ourselves as the new owners and told The Holy Spirit working and in the physical, I thanked the Lord the doctors they had to move out, moving in your life gives you the for our building that He had hidden they were shocked. advantage in every situation. You for us. Of course, they wanted to know don’t have to roam around in the I’ll never forget the look on how much more we had offered the dark not knowing God’s will for your Jesse’s face when I drove him to bank than they did. When we told life. You have a direct link to the the building that God had hidden them we bought it for $250,000.00, throne of God and can receive clear for us. It was a fabulous antebellum it blew them away. They couldn’t direction. The will of God is not style two-story building with 11,000 believe that the previous owners did hidden from you, it is hidden for you. square feet of office space. When not contact them before selling the You can reach your destiny! I told Jesse, “Wouldn’t it be great property to JDM. But I knew that if we could buy this property for God had hidden it for us from them Do Not Look At $250,000.00?” Jesse thought that the and others that would try to buy it. Circumstances! bottom floor alone was worth more A miracle was in motion and God This principle was made clear than that amount. But he said, “If had worked out every little detail. It to me twenty-one years ago while that is what God is telling you, go is great when you have the advantage searching for our very first office for it!” and know someone in HIGH building that JDM purchased. The I found out that the building PLACES! year was 1990, and Jesse had asked and property were originally valued me to find a building to relocate at one million dollars, and began Refuse To Back our ministry headquarters to. We’d negotiations to buy our first ministry Down outgrown the small offices that we headquarters. Every step of the way, Well, it wasn’t long before that were renting (less than 2,000 square we relied upon the Holy Spirit to 11,000 square foot building could feet) and knew that it was time to guide every word we said and prayed no longer handle all of the increase purchase our own building. We had for favor with the owners of the that God had ahead for JDM. Again, sown many seeds into building funds of churches around the nation and we were looking for our harvest. So I began scouting out the land and was No matter what you are facing, determined to come back with a good report. regardless of the impossibility Every few days, Jesse would ask of it, you can know the will me if I had found any buildings for of God for your life and see it him to look at. I didn’t want to tell him that the more I searched, the come to pass. more impossible the situation looked. Either the price was ridiculously high or it was in the middle of a building and the real estate people. He had hidden the perfect property junk heap. Although there seemed Miraculously, they accepted our offer to build our current International to be nothing available, I knew that of only $250,000.00, the exact figure Headquarters, with over 137,000 the Lord wanted us to stop renting God told us to pay. When you have square feet of space on nine acres and purchase a larger building to the Holy Spirit working on your of property in the New Orleans handle the growth that He would behalf, you always have the advantage. area. The project was completed in be sending to the ministry. I was After all, it was not hidden from us, it October of 2000, and although that determined not to look at the was hidden for us. Glory! debt-free construction was the biggest circumstances and continued to trust God gave us many miracles faith project we had ever tackled, it the Holy Spirit. in every phase of that project, turned out to be the easiest. One day, while praying for but I must tell you at least one in Many people told us it was the building that didn’t seem to particular. After the act of sale, impossible to begin a construction jdm.org • ­­­13 project (which was expected to healing, financial miracle, restoration stay frustrated. But when I spend cost seven million dollars) without of your marriage, deliverance, or any time praising Him, suddenly I am borrowing money, but our God good thing, God has a promise for you climbing high above the distractions specializes in doing the impossible! in His Word. His blessings are not and demands of this life and walking We faced many challenges during hidden from you, they are hidden for with the Most High. that four year building project, but you in His Word. Things look a whole lot the Holy Spirit was faithful to give us Make a commitment to study different when you stand in God’s the advantage every step of the way! those things that have been freely given presence. In a moment He can Now it is valued at almost three times to you by God and expect His will unravel the most complicated the original construction cost. It is to come to pass. Even if we are weak situations and fill you with an an excellent testimony of the power and don’t know what to do, we can unexplainable peace. He can make a of God to bring His will to pass “in rely upon the Holy Spirit to help us way where there is no way! earth, as it is in Heaven!” effectively pray according to God’s will. Isaiah 35:8 (AMP) says, “And a highway shall be there, and a way; and it shall be called the Holy Way. The unclean shall not pass over it, but it shall You are created to walk in health. be for the redeemed....” We don’t have to walk the same You are destined to prosper. You road as the world and live in the are the light of the world and can potholes of life. Jesus redeemed us on the cross of Calvary and set a glorious prove the will of God throughout highway before us. It is not cluttered with detours and it is never closed for the earth. construction. Jesus paved it with His precious blood and has reserved it for Realize today that whenever Romans 8:26-27 says, “Likewise all that will come unto Him. things look impossible, God is in a the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: You don’t have to be in the dark position to move in the realm of the for we know not what we should about God’s will for your life! Under miraculous. All He needs is someone pray for as we ought: but the Spirit the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, that will believe His Word and refuse itself maketh intercession for us with Paul wrote,“For ye were sometimes to back down. It doesn’t matter if you groanings which cannot be uttered. darkness, but now are ye light in the are at the edge of the Red Sea, the “And He that searcheth the hearts Lord: walk as children of light: (For walls of Jericho, or in a hospital bed. knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness Your miracle is not hidden from you, because He maketh intercession for the and righteousness and truth;) Proving it is hidden for you. saints according to the will of God.” what is acceptable unto the Lord… I Corinthians 2:10-13 says, “But Wherefore be ye not unwise, but God hath revealed them unto us by His The Right Way understanding what the will of the Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, While in the presence of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:8-10, 17). And yea, the deep things of God. Lord one day, He showed me a then in Colossians 1:9, Paul let the “For what man knoweth the things vision that made me to understand church know that he was praying for of a man, save the spirit of man which the importance of taking the right them exactly that way: “For this cause is in him? even so the things of God step. Instantly I saw two things: A we also, since the day we heard it, do not knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. revolving door and an escalator. I cease to pray for you, and to desire that “Now we have received, not the knew that it was up to me to choose ye might be filled with the knowledge spirit of the world, but the spirit which one or the other. If I took a step of His will in all wisdom and spiritual is of God; that we might know the through the revolving door, I would understanding.” things that are freely given to us of God. continually go around in circles and God’s will is not hidden from “Which things also we speak, not in never get anywhere. But one easy step you, it is hidden for you! You are the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, onto the escalator would carry me created to walk in health. You but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; into the presence of God and renew are destined to prosper. You are comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” my strength. anointed to win and impossible God’s Word is full of wonderful God showed me that when to curse! Step into God’s presence treasures for those that will dare to I neglect time with Him, I get today and get ready for the ride of seek them out. If you need a physical stuck in that revolving door and your life! a 14 • VOTC • February 2011 Be Equipped with these great Resources by Cathy Duplantis

HOW TO BEHAVE IN A THE WAY LOVE CAVE (BOOK) BEHAVES (CD) It’s possible that fear, failure, Cathy Duplantis reveals the disappointment, or disobedience has way love should behave and how backed you into a “cave” in your own the God-kind of love will always life. You could have battle fatigue. lead us to victory. “God’s love You may have gotten weary in well command is ground zero for doing and fainted along the way. But, Christianity. If we don’t get this when you learn how to behave in a right, we don’t get anything right.” cave, you won’t be in that low place – Cathy for very long. CCD1-31 $5 USD was $7 BC-01 $6 USD was $8

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Order today! Log on to jdmstore.org or use the order form in this magazine. jdm.org • ­­­15 LOVE & FAITH PRODUCTS

“...The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love” (Galatians 5:6 NIV).

LOVE: WHAT IS IT GOOD GIVING GOD FOR? ABSOLUTELY SOMETHING TO EVERYTHING! (4 DVD SET) REMEMBER (DVD) Is your marriage not where you’d like What do you think God is saying it to be? How about your relationship to Gabriel about you in Heaven? with Christ? Do you find that your faith Guess what? You have the ability just isn’t working as well as you’d like? to write the script! Take hold of Jesse Duplantis will inspire you to lean your authority as a believer and on the Word that says “faith worketh by start writing your autobiography love” and to, as he puts it, “check your today! Your Creator is waiting in dipstick” because you just may be “two great anticipation to read it and quarts low” on love! remember it! Start giving God something good to remember, JDVD-149 $29 USD was $39 today! JDVD-164 $15 USD was $20

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16 • VOTC • February 2011 LOVE & FAITH PRODUCTS

“...The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love” (Galatians 5:6 NIV).

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Order your copy today! Log on to jdmstore.org or use the order form in this magazine. ­­­jdm.org • 17 Covenant “This is the LORD’S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.” (Psalm 118:23) Praise Papua New Guinea Australia Georgia Thank you very much for the What a privilege to be Thank you for your ministry Voice of the Covenant magazine. connected with Jesse Duplantis and faithfulness to God. Your I also want to thank you for the Ministries through Partnership. monthly Partner letters and Word Seed CD that I received. We are so blessed in all your weekly TV Broadcasts are so I have stood on the Word for encouragement through your uplifting, plus, your monthly a few years now and have been CDs, DVDs, magazine, and books. Partner CDs are awesome. They encouraged by the teachings of We recently watched the BVOV get me to work and back every Jesse Duplantis Ministries. I broadcast with Brother Jesse and week. I look forward to a new one am grateful to Jesse and Cathy John Copeland which has, and still each month and share them with for their obedience and heart is, changing our lives as we put my family and friends. towards God. I look forward to into action all the teaching points the monthly magazines. I am given on the broadcast. South Carolina proud to be a part of God’s plan You are indeed a huge blessing I am always so richly blessed by supporting Jesse Duplantis to the Body of Christ. Blessings by your monthly CDs. I thank Ministries. abundant, from two grateful and God for you and Cathy and your Once again, I want to thank very appreciative Partners. ministry. It is so wonderful to sow you personally for the awesome into Jesse Duplantis Ministries. job you are doing in sharing the I have down-graded from cable Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ Australia and satellite TV, so I don’t get with the world. I believe you are a your programs anymore, so again, great blessing to all of us. I recently asked you to pray for my children, who were the CDs are a great blessing! struggling with issues in their Keep sharing the Good News Ohio lives. My son, who has loved Jesse of Jesus Christ. I’ve never believed I found a lump in my breast. Duplantis Ministries since he was God could be in a box. Thanks for I called your office on my way to a boy, recommitted his life to the letting Christ live as He desires a biopsy and asked you to be in Lord. He and God got together, through you and away from all the agreement with me that I would sorted it out, and I am so blessed. limits and doctrines of men. be OK. That lump was OK, but Thank you for your support and there was another area on the encouragement. One child at Indiana other side that was suspicious. peace and one to go. My faith is Praise God for your ministry. I was referred to a surgeon for so encouraged by God’s ‘suddenly’ I enjoy and receive so much from more test and the results showed and how He turns things around your TV programs, magazine, no cancer! God is a good and so quickly. I am expecting another and CDs. Thank you all for your faithful God. victory soon. faithfulness and love for the Lord.

18 • VOTC • February 2011 England Texas Thank you so very much for Let me say “Thank You” how you remind us that God has from myself and my husband. a sense of humor. You always I was overwhelmed to tears that bring much needed joy into my Jesse Duplantis Ministries would life when I watch your extremely send us a letter and scriptures blessed God TV program. You are to believe for a child! I felt God such a blessing. tell me ‘That is why I bless Jesse! Because his heart is for people and to sincerely stand beside each Montana person and petition God on their behalf.’ We are so blessed by you I am a Spirit-filled Christian and your ministry. I am looking man that is currently incarcerated forward to delivering the news of in prison. I am writing you to a baby soon! thank you for being a great servant of the Lord Jesus. I want to thank you for the great ministry that you Australia As you can see from these have. Thank you for your CDs, praise reports, we are using every Only Heaven will reveal how available tool to reach people and many hearts Jesse Duplantis Partner letters, and magazines. Ministries has pointed toward I appreciate them so much. I was change lives with the wonderful Heaven, and how many homes really blessed to hear Brother Jesse Gospel of Jesus Christ. have been revolutionized through teaching on BVOV. I pulled out We are thankful to God for our your ministry, to open doors that all of my old Partner letters and carefully studied them again. I was precious Covenant Partners from were once considered closed to all over the world who faithfully the miracle working power of the really encouraged by the teachings. Gospel. sow seeds into this ministry (for At the prison, I enjoy watching 33 years now) so others may hear you preach on TV, and reading Texas the Good News about God’s great your books and magazine. What I just want to say “Thank love for our world. a blessing. I hope some day that I You” for your anointed teachings. They make me grow stronger every will be able to meet you in person – Jesse & Cathy and to be able to hear you preach day! Thanks to the entire staff for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thank EVERYTHING you do for Jesus. you again, faithful servant of God. You’re an eternal blessing to us!

­­­jdm.org • 19 Can You Hear Me Now? by Corey Naquin

number of months ago, my wife, Angela, failures about things both large and small are the and I were in a home improvement store sparks that can start a huge fire in marriages. And looking for some items we needed for a not the good kind of fires, but the ones that rage out Abathroom that we were in the middle of renovating. of control and lead couples to the brink of divorce. We were looking at toilets, of all things, and we Although there have been thousands upon were in the process of narrowing our decision down thousands of books written about communication to the one that we wanted to buy. and practically everyone knows that solid Now let me interject that at the time of this communication is the key to having a successful incident, we had been married for over fourteen marriage, it still remains one of the biggest years. We know each other pretty well. We know problems in marriages around the globe. I want to each other’s tendencies. So I know that my wife has take the rest of this article to address a few ways a tendency to randomly bring me into the middle that you can improve communication in your of a conversation that she is having in her own marriage. These are keys that Angela and I have head. Sometimes I can figure out what she’s talking lived by in our fifteen plus years of marriage. I pray about, and sometimes not. I also know that there that they would help you as well. are times that she can’t think of the word that she really wants to say. Sometimes I can figure out what she wants to say, and sometimes I can’t. Back to the home improvement store…once GuardMatthew 12:34-35Your says,Heart “…For out of the we decided on which toilet we wanted to purchase, abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man Angela said, “Do you want me to go and get an out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good orange flat thingy?” Now, keep in mind that we things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings had been looking at other things as well, and forth evil things.” this bathroom renovation had taken longer than In life, there are many things that will come to expected and cost more than we intended on distract you, confuse you, and draw the focus away paying. We were both sort of on edge about the from the things that really matter. You have to whole thing and ready for the renovation to be guard your heart against those things. Remember done. So, I say, “Flat thingy? I have no idea what that when you say “yes” to something you are saying you’re talking about. You’re going to have to help “no” to something else. It’s important to know what me out here.” things are most important and always say “yes” to Without saying anything, she just walked away them first. and came back a few minutes later with an “orange Guarding your heart from distraction and flat thingy,” or as everyone else calls it, “a shopping confusion will help you achieve the next key to cart.” Granted, it was flat, and we definitely needed improving communication in your marriage as well. it to carry the items that we were buying, but I really didn’t understand what she was talking about. We had a communication failure that night. We laughed about it after it happened, and it BuildA number Trust of years ago, I was asked to be the really wasn’t a big deal. However, communication chaplain for a football team. Now, I’m a football 20 • VOTC • February 2011 guy and I think that I have a better-than-average happens in a marriage, it happens when someone knowledge of the game. In particular, I know cares more about saying something rather than quite a bit about the quarterback position. I played listening to what is being said. quarterback in junior high school, high school, and Proverbs 10:19 says, “In the multitude of words college. sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” When I first started out as chaplain, I noticed When you give energy to listening, you are that the guys on the team didn’t really know me, being wise. Not only that, but you are loving and and didn’t really pay much attention to what I had honoring your spouse by listening well. Chances to say. I knew exactly what needed to happen. I are that you vowed to love and honor them on your needed them to see me throw a football, so I asked wedding day. One way that you can do that is by the coach if I could throw to the wide receivers being “swift to hear.” during warm-ups at one of the games. I don’t like to brag, but I put on a pretty good show. In fact, players at other stations stopped warming up and just watched what I was doing. SpeakProverbs Words15:4 says, “A wholesomeof Life tongue is a tree After that warm-up, the head coach asked me to of life….” And Proverbs 16:24 says, “Pleasant words coach“I am quarterbacks the bread forof thelife. rest He ofwho the comesyear. More to Me shallare never like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to hunger,importantly, and he I never who had believes any trouble in Me getting shall neverthe thirst.”the(John bones.” 6:35) boys to listen to me the rest of the year, and in the You have the opportunity to speak words that years that followed. bring life. Your spouse is your number one audience The things that I had to say before that warm- where this is concerned. God has given you a up and after it didn’t change at all. The difference spouse so that you can encourage and spur them on was that now I had their respect and attention. I to their God-given assignment in life. You are their improved communication by building trust. built-in cheerleader, their number one encourager, Marriage is no different. You have something to and their biggest fan. say to your spouse, but maybe the trust isn’t there. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” You build trust with consistent action. Sometimes according to Proverbs 18:21. So choose life every building trust starts with saying, “I’m sorry.” But chance you get. it doesn’t end there. It must be followed with If you want to turn things around in your consistent action. There is no way around it. marriage, or just make things better, these four steps are a great place to start. Put these simple keys into practice, and I truly believe that this year can be your best year of marriage yet! a BeJames Quick 1:19 says, to“So then,Listen my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” All scripture references in the preceding article Good listening is the anecdote for anger. Most of are from the New King James Version (NKJV) the time when an argument or a miscommunication unless otherwise noted.

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JDM International Headquarters 1973 Ormond Boulevard Destrehan, Louisiana (6 miles West of the New Orleans International Airport) Pastor Corey & Angela Naquin jdm.org • ­­­21 by Jodi Duplantis

“Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called the sons of God…Give to him who asks you and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away” (Matthew 5:9 & 42).

22 • VOTC • February 2011 enny swung hard on the swing, dipping her head She knew what she had to do. back to feel the cold wind slicing through her hair. “No problem, Kelly, I’ll bring them to you tomorrow,” Winter was full of chilly days and even though Jenny said without smiling. Kelly seemed to jump at the Jenny’s nose felt like a big cube of ice, she still chance to add on a little more. J wanted to stay outside and go higher on the swing. “Great! Can I borrow your hoop earrings, too?” Kelly Jenny was mad. Her best friend had totally hurt her asked brightly. feelings, but instead of being sad and crying about it, all Jenny swallowed and said, “Sure, I’ll bring them she could do was grit her teeth and think about it…and tomorrow, too.” Just then, the bell rang and Kelly sped off swing. She wished she’d had said something good! to her next class. Kelly had been her best friend for a few years now, but she could be kind of mean sometimes. Jenny didn’t know why and she ignored it most of the time, but this Monday Morning Blues afternoon, Jenny had enough. All Jenny had been doing Wouldn’t you know it? On Monday, Kelly showed was hanging out in the hall during break chatting with a up with one scuffed up pair of silver shoes and a pair of new girl at school, Kate, when Kelly showed up. She took earrings missing a back. She’d waited until the very end one look at Kate and then started talking with an attitude. of the day to give them back. Jenny was talking to her new friend again, Kate, when Kelly returned what she’d borrowed. What Happened Was This! “Yeah, I lost one of the backs, Jenny, sorry,” Kelly said “Hey, Jen, what’s going on?” Kelly said as she looked as she handed Jenny the earrings and shoes. She didn’t say Jenny up and down. Her eyes landed square on Jenny’s anything about the scuffs, and didn’t even seem to notice. brand new silver shoes. “Oh, Jenny, I love them! Oooh, do Jenny breathed deep and said, “That’s OK.” Jenny you think I could borrow those? I’m going to my aunt’s smiled even though she was disappointed. What Kelly wedding on Saturday and they’d be just perfect.” said next was just too much for Jenny to take. Jenny cringed. Anytime Kelly borrowed something, “You know, Jenny, those shoes are kind of cheap,” it always came back messed up, stretched out, or dirty. Kelly said, looking at Kate, “I probably shouldn’t have She was messy by nature and Jenny was super-neat. Jenny even worn them. They didn’t even look that good on.” loved Kelly a lot, but she’d just gotten the shoes and she Jenny couldn’t believe her ears. Her heart sunk. really liked them…she didn’t really want to let her borrow “Well, I like them, I don’t care how much stuff costs,” them. Kelly felt Jenny hesitate. Jenny said, looking down at the shoes. “What? You don’t want to let me wear them?” Kelly “Yeah, cute is cute no matter the price,” Kelly said, asked. “but those are just plain bad. They’re kind of ugly on.” “It’s just that they’re SO new,” Jenny said, “Do you Jenny felt heat rising in her face. Kate didn’t say anything promise to be really gentle on them?” and Jenny was embarrassed. “What are you talking about? I’m always gentle!” “Nobody made you wear them,” Jenny said tightly as Kelly said and looked at Kate like Jenny was crazy. Jenny she squeezed the shoes. didn’t want to argue and suddenly her mind drifted to “Oooooh, OK, sorry!” Kelly said sarcastically and what her mom had read to her just that morning. You looked over at Kate. She made a face that made it look see, that morning as Jenny slurped her blueberry oatmeal, like Jenny was over-reacting. Kate didn’t say anything, so Jenny’s mom read bits and pieces from Matthew chapter Kelly went even further. five. Now, as Jenny stood looking at Kelly, two of the “What’s with that outfit, Jenny? It looks like you got verses popped right into her head. into a fight with a rainbow on the way to school,” she said with a laugh. Jenny looked down at herself. She was Blessed are the peacemakers, For they wearing a bright orange and yellow polka dot sweater and shall be called the sons of God…Give to him a lime green plaid skirt. who asks you and from him who wants to “Jenny, your taste is just kind of crazy sometimes!” borrow from you do not turn away. Kelly laughed and tried to get Kate to join in. “What do Matthew 5:9-42 you think, Kate? Is Jenny going for a world record for the loudest colors ever or what?” Jenny could hardly believe she remembered them and “No, I like how you look, Jenny,” Kate said sweetly. thought, It must be God reminding me. She was right. Jenny was totally and completely humiliated. She Jenny still didn’t want to give in, but as she stood suddenly felt super-ugly and wanted to cry. Instead, she there looking at Kelly, she could almost feel the words just rolled her eyes, tucked the shoes into her bag, and peacemaker, give, and do not turn away dancing in her head. started to walk away. She didn’t know what to say and just jdm.org • ­­­23 wanted to run. “I love you, Jenny. I know how you feel…let Me help “I’m just joking,” Kelly said with a smile, grabbing her you to see Kelly through My eyes,” Jenny heard deep in her arm playfully and acting like Jenny was acting ridiculous. heart. Jenny relaxed her head deep into her hands and “Yeah, well, it’s not a good joke unless we’re both closed her eyes tightly and she started to be still before laughing,” Jenny said. Just then, the bell rang. It was time God. Suddenly, she started seeing the situation with for the last class of the day. different eyes. It was like she was standing on the outside watching and, all of a sudden, she saw what had REALLY happened all along…Kelly was hurt. Kelly was jealous. The REAL Reason Kelly didn’t know what to do. She looked at Jenny and As Jenny swung on the swing, all she could do was Kate and felt like she was being ditched, pushed aside, think about what a mean girl Kelly was and how she and unimportant…Kelly was getting back at Jenny for should have said something mean right back to her. In something that wasn’t even happening. It was the only her mind, she rehearsed what happened over and over, way she knew how to feel strong. each time saying something meaner and meaner back Jenny’s heart leapt and suddenly she felt clean…and to Kelly. all the comebacks that she’d thought up melted away. “Oh yeah, well, I can change my clothes, but you’ll “You see, Jenny, it’s not always the way you think it is. still be loud and ridiculous forever, Kelly!” she said to the The ones that hurt you…the ones that betray you…the ones wind as she swung higher. that despitefully use you, they have reasons that you might not ever know. That’s why I want you to pray for them, to love them, and to even bless them. Even mean girls need love, too.” “That’s why I want you to pray for them, to love them, The Healing Power of Love Jenny went home and looked at herself in the mirror. and to even bless them. Even Her sweater was instantly beautiful. Her silver shoes were mean girls need love, too.” the coolest things ever. She smiled, said a quiet thanks to God for being there for her, and picked up the phone. She had to let Kelly know how much she appreciated her as a “Really, Kelly? Well, in the words of Forrest Gump, friend. ‘stupid is as stupid does’ and that means YOU, Kelly!!!” Two hours later, she hadn’t said a word about the “Oh, you say you don’t like this polka dotted sweater? shoes or the earrings and didn’t even care. She was Huh, Kelly? Well, I don’t like your polka dotted FACE!!! I laughing with Kelly and telling stories, just as if nothing could play dot-to-dot for a year on that freckle-fest!!!” had ever happened. She loved her best friend so much and Jenny didn’t exactly come up with the best come- was so glad that she hadn’t given up on her. backs when it came to her friends…even the mean ones. Right before Jenny hung up, Kelly paused for a It took about thirty whole minutes for Jenny to run moment and went silent. Then, quietly, Kelly made a out of comebacks. By then, she’d sharpened her tongue confession. like a blade and was ready to spit one out at the nearest “I did eighteen cartwheels in a row. It was a dare with person. Good thing she was alone. As Jenny started my cousins and well, I scuffed up your new shoes and I’m slowing down her swinging, she felt a tap in her heart. really, really sorry about it. I didn’t mean to do it…and, Just a little thumping…and it wasn’t her heart. you know, I lost that earring back because I was acting “You finished, Jenny?” She heard deep inside. The all crazy…and I didn’t mean any of the mean stuff I said swing came to a stop. Jenny knew it was God tapping at today either. Jenny, I don’t know why I said that stuff.” her heart. He had been listening to her the whole time. I know why, Jenny thought to herself. Instead of Jenny dropped her head into her hands and teared up. getting into it, she just went right to point, “I love you, “God, she is SUCH a mean girl! I hate her! I didn’t Kelly, and I’m glad you’re my best friend—nobody can do ANYTHING and she just attacked me and for no take your place, you know.” reason and…,” Jenny couldn’t even finish telling God how “That’s RIGHT!” Kelly said with a laugh, “I love she felt when a flood of tears just came flooding out of you, too, Jen. I’m so sorry.” Jenny could feel the change her already angry eyes. in Kelly’s heart. That night before she fell asleep, Jenny “I know,” God whispered to her heart, “I know.” Jenny said a word of thanks to God for opening her eyes and let go of the anger and felt weak. softening her heart. “Help me, God,” she asked aloud and suddenly, in just Mean girls need love, too, she remembered and fell a few moments, Jenny felt calmness in her heart. asleep feeling so, so good. a 24 • VOTC • February 2011 Games

start

Dog Guinea Pig Gecko Hamster Cat Goldfish Mouse Rabbit finish Ferret Snake Turtle Canary Hermit Crab Parrot Horse Frog

jdm.org • ­­­25 p a r t n e r s hi p

26 • VOTC • February 2011 LOVE THE WORLD WITH US— JDM PARTNERSHIP

s one soul worth more than God to regularly pray and sow the whole world to you? It is financial seeds into the good soil Ito Jesus—it is to us too! For of JDM. They are the bloodline 33 years, we have faithfully obeyed in our mission to rescue lost souls His command to “Go ye into all from the hand of the enemy. Each the world and preach the Gospel Covenant Partner is part of our to every creature” (Mark 16:15). family and part of God’s great We have invested heavily into commission to love His world. souls by continually spreading the If you share our passion for Good News through evangelistic souls and would like to become meetings (since 1978), this a JDM Covenant Partner, we monthly periodical, Voice of the want you to know that you are an Covenant (since 1981), television answer to our prayers! God has broadcasts (since 1986), ministry instructed us to believe Him for products (since 1979), and 1 Million Partners so that we can internet outreach (since 1997). reach 1 Billion Souls. You are a As a result, millions are hearing vital part of this plan! Romans the truth about how our “God so 10:14-15 says “…and how shall loved the world that He gave His they hear without a preacher. And only begotten Son, that whosoever how shall they preach unless they shall believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” are sent?” (NKJV). ( John 3:16). By sowing your financial seeds None of this would be possible into the good soil of JDM, you are without the generous financial investing into the souls of people support of our faithful Covenant you may never meet in this life. Partners. Because of their Think of it: We can work together commitment to love and invest and love the world for God! in souls, we are able to use every Together, we can reach 1 Billion available tool to reach people and souls for Jesus Christ! change lives with the wonderful You can become a JDM Gospel of Jesus Christ. Covenant Partner today by using Who are Covenant Partners? the envelope/order form in the They are individuals, families, center of this magazine, by logging businesses, and churches from all onto www.jdm.org, or by calling p a r t n e r s hi p over the world that are called by JDM at the office nearest you. JDM International JDM United Kingdom JDM Australia Headquarters Within UK: 01225471111 Within AUS: 07 5476 8311 USA 985-764-2000 Outside UK: 44 1225 47111 Outside AUS: 61 7 5476 8311

jdm.org • ­­­27 Partnership Has Its Benefits!

Each month, our Covenant Partners receive a special Partner Letter straight from the desk of Jesse Duplantis. It is ministry by mail and it’s filled with exactly what God is putting on Jesse’s heart for that month. Along with this letter, we offer Partners an exclusive monthly Message on CD as a gift for their faithful support of our evangelistic work.

Other benefits include more exclusive web access! Every Partner receives a Covenant Partner Card and a personal Partner Number which gives them discounts and access to the exclusive “Partners Only” area of our website at www.jdm.org. Through this exclusive site, Partners are blessed with…

• More Personal Ministry • More Online Discounts • More Personal Prayer • More Teaching • More Discounts at Meetings • More Multi-Media • More Preferred Seating • Most Importantly, More • Special Partner Web Message Heavenly Rewards

Become a Covenant Partner today! Use the form in this magazine, call 985.764.2000, or log on to jdm.org. 28 • VOTC • February 2011 Have you fallen in love lately?

I’ve Fallen in Love New DVD! With the World by Jesse Duplantis

The most important gift you receive as a believer in Christ is everlasting life. God fell in love with you and that is what motivated Him to give up everything He valued most, His only Son, so that you could live with Him forever. As a partaker of His great love, Jesus has commissioned you to share His love with everyone you can. In this compelling DVD, Jesse Duplantis brings you a contagious message full of joy and passion that will ignite the fire of God’s love in you to a new intensity.

Experience a deeper revelation of God’s great love for you and be the light Christ has called you to be. Remember, God so loved the world (so loved you) that He gave up Jesus. God wants you to fall in love the world, too—share Christ with someone today!

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jdm.org • ­­­29 v i s i O N A R Y L EA D ER S H I P: Increase the Kingdom, Love Always! by Jesse Duplantis

ome of the greatest revivals in history were stopped because people started judging other Speople. The Spirit stopped flowing, money dried up, and God’s work was stopped in its tracks. I’ve seen people lose everything they’ve had and completely walk away from God, when all they really had to do was shut their mouths and focus on love. How many times does the Word remind us to love? Scriptures like, “Bless them that curse you” and “Pray for them which despitefully use you” are reminders to us to love instead of judge. I know it is not easy, but if God said we should do it, then we can do it. He would not tell us to do something that we were incapable of doing…we can stop judging and start loving. Don’t judge others because you will open yourself up to major “leaks” in your life. Let God, Who is the Higher Power, handle that.

The best way to fail is to fall into the trap of judging others, or to let yourself focus on the negative things someone has either said about you or about something you’ve done. It’s called distraction! It’ll pull you right off course every time. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Never let a satanic distraction become a satanic attraction. To achieve total success in life, your energy must not stagnate in the area of distractions. It must go in the right direction. Judging others is a waste of spiritual energy.

30 • VOTC • February 2011 In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus said, “Judge not, that ye be ministry. I’ve often said, “I don’t know about their not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall business, I’m about my Father’s business.” I learned be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be that from Jesus! measured to you again.” You see, the goal that God has given me is too If there is one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s this: big for me to waste my time and effort on putting Obey what God says! One of the greatest statements my nose into someone else’s business! I don’t want I’ve ever heard came from the mouth of Dr. Billy to put my focus in the wrong place. I consider that a Graham, and it was on this exact subject. Dr. “leak” that is just too expensive. Graham said… My goal is to reach people and change lives, one “It is the Father’s job to judge. soul at a time—that is the destiny and destination of this ministry. It was Jesus’ goal and it’s mine, too. It is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict. Now you understand why I don’t get caught up in And it is our job to love.” judging others. It would just cause me to spring a leak that would let the devil come in and stop the Now that’s powerful! That’s wisdom! We should work of this ministry. never try to do God’s job. Neither should we try to do the Holy Spirit’s job. We have the job of a lifetime and that job is to love. Paid For in Blood If you start judging others, you can take it to the When people say bad things about my ministry bank that “cracks” in your life will manifest. God’s and me, I say to myself, “Jesse, it’s your job to love. work in your life will slow to a crawl. Your prayers It’s your job to increase the kingdom of God. It’s will go unanswered. And Satan will have an open your job to produce a hundredfold for your Partners door to come in swiftly and cause you great pain. I and promote God’s will here on earth as it is in call those major leaks in your life. It’s what getting Heaven.” into a judgmental mindset can do. I can’t afford leaks in this ministry or in my life. Leaks are too expensive. They are paid for by the Speak the Truth in Love blood of others. So, I refuse to hurt people. I’m here Speaking the truth in love about something to love and help people. That’s why my joy stays full. is not judging. The Bible instructs us to speak the I’ll be honest with you, it hurts me when people truth and it tells us that the truth will set us free. So, say nasty things about me. I’m still human, but I speaking the truth is not being critical; it’s simply go beyond it. I remind myself that the cause of the being truthful! But the motive must be in love, not in ministry is too great to judge or lash out at others. judgment. Your trust is too important to let myself spring a leak I once heard someone say that if you speak the and hinder your blessing. My job is to love…it’s what truth, you can walk away and forget everything God has called me to do. you’ve said because the truth can stand alone through So, if people say bad things about you and anything. It is simple and pure. Truth always prevails. you want to retaliate, remind yourself that it’s not Jesus said, “…I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: your job to judge, but to love. When you feel like no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me” ( John 14:6). condemning someone else, even if they deserve it, If you really want to be a success in life, don’t focus don’t do it. Judging others will just open the door to on what they say, focus on what God says. the devil and you don’t want that! Let God, Who is the Higher Power, be the One to handle it. One Expensive “Leak” Satan is looking for a way into your life—don’t Many times I’ve been asked about how other allow it! Shut the door on him once and for all. Obey ministries do their business. People want me to God and refuse to judge others. Determine today gossip and pass judgment, and to let them in on what to love others no matter what…your destiny is too they think I may know about this ministry or that important not to! a jdm.org • 31 Jesse Duplantis Ministries are you moving? NON PROFIT ORG If so, we need to hear from you today! PO Box 1089 U.S. POSTAGE Please note that JDM does not automatically Destrehan, LA 70047 PAID LIBERTY, MO receive address changes filed with the PostalRoyal or Current Resident PERMIT NO 254 Mail.Service. Therefore, Therefore, if you if you move move or need or need to correct to yourcorrect mailing your mailingaddress address for any forother any reason, other Join JESSE thi s m o n t h i n youreason, will needyou will to neednotify toJDM notify directly JDM sodirectly that you so don’tthat you miss don’t any miss issues any of issues Voice of Voicethe Covenant of the . CovenantPlease phone,. Please e-mail, phone, fax, e-mail, or mail fax, your or mail yourcorrection correction using using the envelope/order the envelope/order form forminside insidethis magazine. this magazine.

Thank you for your cooperation! jdm.org Voice of the Covenant FEBRUARY 2011

The true measure of a visionary is not how many visions they have, but how many visions become reality.

Come experience the 2011 VISIONARY LEADERSHIP conference

Thursday, April 7 at 7pm Friday, April 8 at 10am & 7pm JDM International Headquarters 1973 Ormond Blvd Destrehan, LA 70047 (6 miles West of the New Orleans International Airport)

Admission is free • No childcare provided Registration suggested: www.jdm.org