Concerning the Cross-Walk
Brothers and Sisters, I am not now talking about the designated area for you to cross a busy street, although it is wise to be extremely cautious when crossing any street in view of increased traffic and crazy drivers. (Could increased drug and alcohol abuse have something to do with the increase in crazy drivers?) Actually, I’m referring to the pertinent teachings in the Word of God about our Cross Walk! Please carefully, prayerfully consider these potent passages:
“Then He said to them all, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.’” Luke 9:23-26 (NKJV)
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 (NKJV)
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)
“But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” Galatians 6:14 (NKJV)
An Attitude of Gratitude
It’s true that as Americans, we have had one frustration and disaster after another – and some places on this cursed earth have had even worse disasters. Besides the Covid “plandemic” with its ravaging disease and Marxist-mandated control shutdown of churches and businesses, we have had multiple conflicts, riots with burnings, break-ins, robberies, and bloodshed in city after city, droughts, fires, floods, killer storms, etc. If we focus our attention on all the terrible news reports, including degeneration of our once great country, and choose to blame God – we are likely to sink into deep depression and feel tempted to contribute to the growing suicide statistics.
Can we logically blame God when His Word plainly tells us why we are living on a cursed earth rather than the perfect paradise that He originally designed for those created in His image? What about the human choice to believe Satan’s lies, disbelieve Almighty God, and rebel against His one restriction in paradise? Shall we waste time and emotions blaming Adam & Eve when we have rebelled against Him ourselves (in multiplied ways)? Should we not rather be so grateful that “His mercies are new every morning”?
Have we forgotten that both unbelief and ingratitude are without excuse before Him Who sees all and knows all? “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools,” Romans 1:18-22 (NKJV)
The Better Path
“It is far better to lose count when counting our blessings, than to lose our blessings while counting our problems!”
– Rejoice Radio
Problem? What is That?
Rick: “Lord, I have a problem! I don’t know what to do with it.”
God: “Problem? What’s that? Can you define that word for ME?”
Friends, if any of you have a problem – will you help me come up with a definition for God?
Thanks Be to God
Propaganda and Pressure
Are you aware of the fact that Marxists (both the Nazi variety and the Communist variety) became masters in the use of propaganda for control and manipulation? Are you also aware, on the current scene, that now upset parents who come to school board meetings to object to the indoctrination of their children with “critical race theory” and perverted, obscene, so-called sex education are being categorized as “domestic terrorists” and are being threatened with investigations by the Department of Justice and the FBI? One protestor mom I heard on an interview said that she was appalled that in one-year’s-time she was re-categorized from concerned parent to “domestic terrorist”! Yes, the same leftists (Marxists) who ignored the violent riots, burning, breaking, robbing and killing of Black Lives Matter and Antifa in city after city are now calling concerned parents “domestic terrorists.”
Are you also aware that Marxists believe and claim that children belong to the state – not the parents? Oh, yes, the parents are responsible to pay the bills for the children – but they are not to interfere with the state’s control and indoctrination of children. Propaganda and manipulation are the most powerful tools of Marxism until they totally take control! Once Marxists secure total control they brutally crush opposition by all possible means.
Do you realize why it is so urgent for parents to take control of their children’s education? Also, the urgent need for Bible believing, committed churches to establish Christian schools to help parents who are unable to homeschool? Please think and pray about this!
From Our Mailbox
Between our monthly prayer letters, I often share other prayer requests with our prayer team and consultants. Since others of you may be feeling oppressed or even depressed by the prevailing darkness around us, I believe Stephanie’s letter may be a great encouragement to you. Please notice her change of focus to God’s tremendous promise in Zephaniah 3:17. Also, please remember these other truths:
- It is darkest before the dawn, and the Word of God says that the Son of Righteousness will arise with healing in His wings! (See Malachi 4:1-3)
- Therefore, our key to victorious living in this dark world is: “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV)
“This is Stephanie . . . when I received your email recently about the porn problem, I did not read it . . . it feels to me like there is sooooooo much bad news, death, division, hate, destruction . . . that adding this was more than I could bear . . .
I did just read this article, and it was bearable, but I am so sad that this is where the world is . . . it really seems like the end is near. . . and that judgement is at hand for so many that IGNORE GOD and keep on sinning. . . and sinning and sinning. . . I find it hard to not be discouraged.
My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. . . . and I am saddened that men, women and children are destroyed by porn . . . if only people would OBEY GOD. . . I am saddened by the so called ‘freedom’ that people exercise in SINNING, willfully. . . and the devastation that comes from it . . . BUT God gives us free will and we are not free from the consequences . . . Thank YOU for your warrior attitude. . . your faithful service. . . your beautiful witness. . .you two have always been an encouraging force to me. . . and I learned this favorite verse from you Rick. . . thank you. . .
‘The LORD your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save: He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.’ Zephaniah 3:17”
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“Dear Rick,
Thank you for sharing this article! I completely agree with the analysis presented in this article about what is contributing to the increased proliferation of pornographic materials. The article has been a sober reminder about the dangers of technology being so close to us all the time. Making decisions to keep phones away from the bedroom, etc., is one of the practical steps we can take to deal with this issue. But, as I said in one of my emails earlier, I strongly believe that true and lasting solution to pornography comes from intentionally being in prayer and in the Word. I have some more thoughts about this and will share them in a separate email…
The last prayer letter from you was excellent, especially the points about the vaccine. There is a massive push here in Australia too. Melody is doing her PhD in Biomechanics. Therefore, she is affiliated with both engineering and health sciences faculties at the University. Just yesterday, the university sent an email to all staff and students of the health sciences faculty essentially saying get the vaccine or prepare to leave. Melody and I talked about the issue of getting the covid-19 vaccine. Neither of us like taking the vaccine, mainly because we do not see any point…
Yours and His, Paul (Sudhakar)” (Please pray for both Paul and Melody! They are engaged!)
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“Rick,
You and Della are daily in my prayers – I do hope that this finds you both doing well and daily being renewed by the nearness of Jesus. How thankful I am for His Most Wonderful promise – ‘Surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Thank you once again for the very welcome sermon recordings. May Jesus hold you both very near.
Ken Morris”
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August 1
“Mr. Deighton:
Just letting you know I’ve finished all the books you’ve given me. They were all a great blessing. I am going to give them to my son when I’m transferred so they can be a blessing to him, his wife, my wife, and grandson. I’ve made him promise me they would do a chapter at a time and answer the questions at the end. I may not be in the house with them but I’m trying to keep them in the Word of God and growing in the faith while I’m away. My mind and heart are hungry for the Word of God again and for that I’m grateful!
I pray that God continues to bless you and the ministries you’re involved in.
Yours in Christ, Jimmy D. Eytchison”
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October 13, 2021
“Dear Rick and Della,
I cannot wait to share exciting news with you!
I have just returned from my first visit to Ukraine since this pandemic began. It was a swiftly planned trip as travel restrictions and my family limitations prevented me from planning it ahead of time. Regardless, it was a much-needed field visit as Mulberry grew our outreaches and I needed to evaluate everything we now do in the pandemic environment. God has blessed our ministry with generous supporters who allowed us to expand the good work Mulberry started in Eastern Ukraine. YOU have provided a way for us to help MORE desperate people!
I am happy to report that despite COVID lockdown, our ministry never stopped in Mariupol and surrounding villages. Our volunteers still feed, care and share the Gospel with dozens at-risk families and children every day! Our increased financial support for Good Samaritan Children’s Home allows housing and taking care of 30 and more children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned by their biological parents. Without YOUR support, Good Samaritan would have closed its doors.
I was able to visit a new region, a war zone in the north-eastern part of Ukraine, next to Donetsk, the epicenter of fighting, with a new partner organization: Light of the Resurrection. Local volunteers conduct a similar ministry to the one Mulberry supports in the buffer zone near Mariupol: they provide sustenance for trapped in the war zone families. These forgotten people have absolutely nothing: no jobs to provide for their children, no means of survival and no hope for the future. Dedicated Christians, our new partners, come alongside with the message of Hope and Love and serve them with compassion and grace. Now, your support will go to these families as well. What a beautiful picture it is turning out to be: God’s Church coming together across continents to accomplish His will to ‘look after orphans and widows in their distress’ (James 1:27a).
Natasha Reimer”
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“Dear Rick,
Thank you so much for this prayer letter and for sharing your opinion about the vaccine. It encourages us so much to stand firm in our convictions nevertheless different attacks of Satan. It’s a blessing for us to know that there are other Christians, who share this opinion. We completely agree with you and share your beliefs and are very thankful to the Lord that you aren’t keeping silent, but speak up about such an important issue.
May God bless you and your family, dear brother!
In Christ, Volodia and Maryana”
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“Dear Mr. Deighton,
My name is Sergei, I’m from Ukraine. First of all I want to say thank you for your ministry and work that you do. I have your book called ‘Millions of Miracles’ in Ukrainian, and I think it’s very good. You mentioned there Voltaire, his agony before death, words of his nurse about death of atheist, and office of Bible society that was opened in his house. I heard this before, but I want to understand, is it historical fact, or just an oral tradition? Is there any reliable source which can prove and confirm this, memoirs etc.? (Note: Yes, I believe there is confirming evidence. – Rick)
Sincerely, Sergei V.”
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“Dear Rick & Della,
How welcome was your October Newsletter – especially Rick, your courage to state concise and clearly your convictions/we do live with opinions so likely to change with circumstances. Your convictions are the mark of quality leadership capabilities, I do believe – like St. Paul – “I am persuaded that …’ How we need desperately, ‘Rise up o man of God – have done with ‘lesser things’ – of prejudice and opinions. I pray every morning God accepts the Doxology on behalf of our men in ministry and missions, globally to serve wholeheartedly in God’s Kingdom here on earth. Please by all means send me a copy – no, two copies of ‘What is Marxism’ in your June 2021 preferably in print. I need to share the October copy of your newsletter (one-of-the-best you’ve-ever-done) with David, a young administrator who has represented (the divisive = my opinion) Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Church seminars globally…
Fondly remember you two beautiful servants.
In Him, Berna Brown” (Please pray for Berna – she is losing her eyesight. – Rick)
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“Rick,
Thank you for your kind card and note. And thank you for this October issue of the monthly Overseas Outreach newsletter – it was one of the best. Thank you for your words concerning conviction and opinion and thoughts concerning all this virus turmoil and regulations and government pressures. It seems to me that your thoughts were very much on target. And indeed – even in the face of widely differing opinions on vaccinations and masks and regulations – may we evidence the grace and love of Jesus as His church by being united.
Would you please send me a copy of the article to which you referred – ‘What is Marxism?’ Enclosed please find some money to cover the cost and mailing. Thank you. I continue to pray for you and Della. May my wonderful Lord Jesus bless you both.
Ken”
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“Beloved brothers and sisters,
Thank you very much for your care, support, and prayers! With great joy, I present you the Christian Center for Science and Apologetics 2021 September newsletter.
The most exciting experience we get whenever we come to a new place (in Ukraine, in Russia, in Uzbekistan, in Belarus – elsewhere) is somebody approaching us with the same words: ‘You do not know me, but I know you! I constantly watch the videos, follow the social media posts, read the books you produce!’ The rest of the speech may vary.
For instance, one can say: ‘I was strongly indoctrinated against the Bible and the church, but your materials made me change my mind.’
Or: ‘I was doubting about giving myself to Jesus, but your materials helped me to make the right decision!’
Or: ‘I was brought up in a family of believers but lost the faith because of the education I got. Nevertheless, your materials restored it and made it stronger than ever before!’
Or: ‘I hesitated to share my faith with others, but your materials laid a solid foundation for it and have helped me to become a bold proclaimer of the message!’
Or: ‘When my kids went to school, I was afraid it would seriously challenge their beliefs. But your materials made them the Lord’s witnesses to their classmates and even to their teachers!’
Or: ‘I never even considered anything like ministry or missions. But your materials inspired me to accept the calling!’
All these encouraging testimonies are the fruits of God’s work through your faithful care and prayers that encourage, inspire, and equip our team and us for the sake of the Kingdom’s greater glory! May the Lord be praised!…
Please continue to pray for the Eurasian Apologetics Center building remodeling. The progress is pretty good. We practically finished the second floor (study room, guest room, and the residential block), fixed water supply and sewerage, installed air conditioners and reserved an LPG power generator, and got most of the appliances and furniture. Now the works moved to the first floor (office, events hall, conference room, kitchen, garage, storage rooms). Even if we cannot handle outdoor works this year, I still hope we will move in by the winter. The key needs for that are fixing the heating system and getting the kitchen installed. I would love to test all the systems’ reliable operations before winter comes in any case. Thank you very much for your care and prayers!
Please keep praying for our ministry, our team, our families, finances, and God’s guidance and protection in everything we do. You are in our prayers as well.
Yours in the love and grace of Christ Jesus,
Sergei (Golovin) for Christian Center for Science and Apologetics
Prayer Requests
- For multitudes of professing Christians to repent, renew, return, restore and revive to qualify for Almighty God to heal our land! May these revived Christians become bold witnesses who walk the walk as well as talk the talk!
- For Jimmy Eytchison to discover and fulfill our Shepherd’s purpose for him at ISCI, and to produce fruit for the glory of God.
- We are praying for someone who would like to be a sponsor for the expenses of our coalition meetings of our Overseas Outreach representative couples in Ukraine. That is, for travel and food expenses for the once or twice a year meetings. Will you pray with us? If you are interested in being a sponsor, please let us know.
- Clarification: in our October prayer letter when I wrote: “Don’t steal their liberty!”, I was referring to the concept that we human beings have the tendency to push our convictions aggressively on to other adults once we reach a conclusion. Persuade – yes! Push – no! And I was not referring to parent-child relationships. Teens are prone to latch on to a phrase and say to their parents, “Don’t steal my liberty!”, but the Word of God says: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother,’ which is the first commandment with promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.’ And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:1-4 (NKJV)
- Please continue to pray for provision, protection, and successful outreach for our four ministry couples and other ministry partners in Ukraine.
- Praise God for the progress on the Eurasian Apologetics Center remodeling project and pray for the funds and help to complete the project.
- Praise God for the encouraging testimonies!
