tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73893796268218501332024-02-07T13:32:39.772-08:00Stephanie's Call to MissionsStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-36164490413565619932011-11-07T21:33:00.000-08:002011-11-07T21:37:53.836-08:00An Update Long Overdue...<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-AU</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> 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mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:shapedefaults ext="edit" spidmax="1026"> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:shapelayout ext="edit"> <o:idmap ext="edit" data="1"> </o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Hello World!<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I hope all of you are doing great. I just wanted to fill you in on what’s happening here on the Gold Coast!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">It has been very busy these past few months. Between ministry, teaching, discipleship, hosting an outreach team, (and trying to have a life!), I feel a bit tired but extremely encouraged at what God is doing here at YWAM Gold Coast. There is so much to tell! I have highlighted some main points to give a condensed update:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">THE INTERNSHIP</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am currently staffing two girls who have joined us for an Internship: Tina, 21, from Norway and Alexandria, 21, from USA. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">This season of the Internship has been very different for me. The program may be the same, but each student makes for a unique experience. God has new and specific things for each student (and new challenges for me), and I feel privileged to be used by Him to speak into their lives and help them discover what God has for them here!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">MINISTRY</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It is hard to summarize all that is happening within our ministries here. I couldn’t be more full of joy when I reflect on it all. It’s honestly such a privilege to be involved in all of our ministries on a weekly basis.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i>The schools</i>: We currently teach “religious education” to 7 different classes from grades 1-7 at two different primary schools, as well as our lunchtime programs that we run. Since there are only 3 of us from ywam doing these classes, I have found myself teaching quite a bit! <b>It’s an amazing opportunity to share with these students about Jesus, about 250 kids a week!</b> What an amazing door God has opened to our base. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i>Set Free Care</i>: We still faithfully go to Set Free Care each week to feed the homeless and have conversations with them. It sounds crazy, but I feel like I am one of them. <b>A lot of the guys know me and trust me, and have let me into their circle of friends. </b>When I go, I feel like I am just sitting and chatting with friends. I feel like what I say is much better received when that level of trust is there. Sometimes the pastor has me go up in front of the group and share something on my heart or a bit of my testimony. I find it is more effective to share like that after people see that you are genuine with them, taking the time to build relationships.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i>Coffee Van</i>: Coffee Van is going great. <b>There are stories every week of people coming closer to God through this ministry.</b> I personally look forward to every Thursday night, connecting with our regulars and meeting new people. Right now, <b>I am very encouraged with what God is doing in the life of a man named Chris.</b> He came to Coffee Van 2 months ago, lonely, homeless, and somewhat depressed. <b>He admits that he’s been an alcoholic for over 20 years</b> off and on, despite multiple attempts at rehab. I spent the whole night at Coffee Van listening to his story. <b>He has come every week since!</b> I can see that he feels like he belongs and knows that we care about him and want to support him. <b>He is now 4 weeks sober, is back going to church, and attends our discipleship meeting on Monday nights!</b> Praise God! Just one of the many cool things God is doing through Coffee Van...</p> <p class="MsoNormal">With the money that was donated from OCC, we are going to buy 2 coffee urns and a grinder so we can brew coffee (rather than just use instant coffee). We look forward to this!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i>Monday Night Meeting</i>: This is something that I started 4 weeks ago. <b>It is a discipleship group for those we meet at Coffee Van who either get saved or are interested in learning more about God.</b> It is very informal (we meet at a McDonald’s), includes a short teaching and we spend time discussing things brought up in the teaching, all questions welcomed. 5 guys from Coffee Van and Set Free Care are coming to it, me, and 3 other ywamers. It’s been a great opportunity for me to practice teaching, while seeing these guys mature in their faith. It’s going really well so far! They have lots of questions which is awesome. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>DTS</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I got the awesome opportunity to speak on the topic <b>“God’s Heart for the Lost”</b> to the DTS last Monday. Just a one-day teaching. I pray that I could impart a desire to the DTS students to step out and genuinely love people. It is something I am passionate about!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">OUTREACH TEAM: YWAM TOWNSVILLE</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Martin and I hosted an outreach team from YWAM Townsville last week. They participated in all of our ministries, and we also added more outreach in their schedule, including a soccer game on the beach with tourists, and a skatepark BBQ to reach youth. <b>They LOVED their time here!</b> We got amazing feedback from them. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I feel that this experience of hosting a team was a new challenge for me and <b>helped me to grow a bit more in leadership</b>. It was fun hosting a team so excited about evangelism, and hearts to serve and bless us. I wish they could have stayed longer!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">SCHOOLIES OUTREACH</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Schoolies is just <b>3 weeks away!</b> “Schoolies” in Australia is like Spring Break in the United States. Over <b>60,000</b> 17-18 year olds come to the Gold Coast to party hard, and unfortunately, leads to decisions that end in tragic statistics such as <b>suicide, rape, and drug abuse</b>. YWAM partners with an organization called Red Frogs to <b>offer support to students</b> by walking them home, cooking pancakes, cleaning rooms, handing out candy and most importantly, offer emotional support through what often can be a challenging week. <b>Often this support leads to opportunities to share the Gospel, both by word and deed.</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This outreach is from November 18<sup>th</sup> -25<sup>th</sup> and is <b>$300</b> for me to join the support crew. <b>Would you please pray about helping me finance this outreach?</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">THANK YOU</span> </b>for your continued prayers and support! I’m sorry it took so long to write an update. I will send a more formal newsletter in the coming weeks.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I love and miss all of you. Please feel free to contact me at any time! I would love to hear from you.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Blessings,</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Stephanie</p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-50843728265387766552011-03-24T19:30:00.000-07:002011-04-17T07:14:54.421-07:00A New ChapterHi everyone!<br /><br />It's been a bit of time since I've been able to update. I've sent out newsletters and e-mail updates throughout my outreach to Mexico City. If you did not receive any of these, please feel free to e-mail me and I can send the updates to you!<br /><br />LOTS has been happening these past few months. Please take a look at what's been happening :)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">Perth Reflection</span><br />It is hard to believe six months has gone by and the season of my life with YWAM Perth has come to an end.<br /><br />What an amazing season it was! <span style="font-weight: bold;">I grew in so many ways- going deeper with God, being trained and equipped in evangelism, growing in my gifts of teaching and discipleship, and emerging as a leader. </span>I was mentored and given many opportunities by the staff to plan and lead groups of people out on evangelism, encouraging other people to step out and be used by God to influence the world for Christ. I am amazed at the grace of God - I never thought I would be able to do many of the things I now find myself doing. Starting out with insecurities in leadership, I grew in confidence each time I led, trusting God to help me every step of the way.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Looking back, I can see exactly why God wanted me to do this school before coming on staff with YWAM Gold Coast!</span><div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">Life on the Goldie</span><br /></div><div>I arrived on the Gold Coast on March 20th. I took a week to relax and to pray and fast for my upcoming season with YWAM Gold Coast. It was a week of adjusting back to life here and for God to<span style="font-weight: bold;"> fully prepare my heart to give </span>in everything I do here. He spoke to me words of encouragement and also confirmed some things He spoke to me in the past of how He wants to use me here. By the end of the week, I felt refreshed, ready to serve, and feeling incredibly honored and privileged to be used by God in this capacity.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">The Local Evangelism Team (LET)</span><br />I am serving the Local Evangelism Team (LET), a ministry branch of YWAM Gold Coast. The LET aims to reach the community through several different ministries:<br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Coffee Van</span>- A ministry to bless our community (many poor and needy) in a practical way by handing out free coffee, tea, and food items.<span style="line-height: 115%;font-family:";font-size:11pt;" lang="EN-US" ></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Set Free Care</span> - A free lunch to serve the homeless, building relationships each week.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Beach/Sports Outreach</span> - Send teams to beach on Saturdays to play sports with tourists and locals to make friendships and share about Jesus. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:relyonvml/> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><span style="line-height: 115%;font-family:";font-size:11pt;" lang="EN-US" ></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Religious Education</span> - Twice weekly, we teach "Religious Education" in two different public primary schools, with the amazing freedom to share about God, the Bible, Christianity, etc.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kids Programs and Camps</span> - Run a kids program called "Supa Club" at two primary schools where we play games, activities, and share a message to the kids. We invite these students to a weekend camp that we run twice a year.<br /></li></ul>Our desire is to use each of these ministries as an opportunity to share Jesus in a unique and personal way.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">The Internship</span><br />In addition to serving in these ministries, <span style="font-weight: bold;">I have also been given the Internship to look after</span>. We have one intern, Cassie (19 years old, from Chicago) who is joining us for 6 months. <span style="font-weight: bold;">I have the privilege to mentor and disciple her in evangelism, ministry, and discovering her gifts and calling</span>. She joins us in each of the above ministries and also has assignments and curriculum to follow such as book reports, a journal, special projects, etc. We are connecting really well and having fun getting to know each other!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">A Thankful Heart</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." Hebrews 13:15</span><br /><br />God has blessed me tremendously with a strong sense of home on the Gold Coast, which is something I am very thankful for. There is no doubt in my mind that I am exactly where God has called me to be. <span style="font-weight: bold;">I am also so very grateful to all those who are continuing to support me through prayer and finance.</span> I have been able make ends meet with my staff fees, airfare and other necessary purchases. Thank you so much for your faithful obedience to God!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">Be Encouraged</span><br />I stand in awe of the amazing God we serve. <span style="font-weight: bold;">His plans are so much greater than our own and He wants to do things that go far beyond our own lives.</span> When we sacrifice our lives to God, He not only satisfies our own needs and gives us purpose, He actually uses our lives to impact and influence those around us - our communities, cities, our nation, the world!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work."<br />2 Timothy 2:20-21, NLT</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What is God speaking to you about?</span> As believers we have a choice to be ordinary or we can be set-apart for Kingdom use, ready for <span style="font-style: italic;">every good work</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">God desires all of us to step into the glorious life He has planned and purposed for each of us.</span> Ask God to refine your heart for honorable use. Ask him to show you or remind you of dreams and visions he has placed in your heart. He has a unique plan for you, a destiny that will bring life to your spirit and bring transformation to a world that needs Jesus.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Thank you for reading!</span> Have a wonderful week.<br /><br />Love and Blessings,<br />Stephanie<br /></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-73216336152539525142011-03-01T05:13:00.000-08:002011-04-17T05:20:36.383-07:00Viva La Mexico!<span style="font-weight: bold;">Mexico City Outreach: December 2010- February 2011</span><br /><br />“…Your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 1:3<br /><br />I believe this verse in 1 Thessalonians sums up our outreach in Mexico City. As a team, we witnessed God do amazing things through our efforts to make His name known in Mexico City, revealing Himself to people by the power of His love.<br /><br />A word to sum up what happened in Mexico City is "<span style="font-weight: bold;">momentum</span>". We had to fight in prayer to see the breakthrough come. Our first day of evangelism, we had only one translator with our team and saw one person saved. Our last night of evangelism, we had about 60 people from local churches join us, drawing crowds of 50-60 people, and seeing over 20 people come into relationship with Jesus.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Over the course of seven weeks, we saw a total of 110 people make a commitment to follow Jesus.</span> In addition to salvations, we saw God do the <span style="font-weight: bold;">miraculous</span> through our team to bring healing, including a woman who was blind and can now see, and a woman who was deaf and can now hear. What a mighty and loving God we serve!<br /><br />We had several opportunities to teach at different churches on evangelism, including the topics: God's intentions and heart for the lost, our responsibility as believers, personal evangelism, and how to share the gospel. We ran evangelism seminars and workshops and took teams out from churches to do evangelism. <span style="font-weight: bold;">We saw four churches mobilized into evangelism and working together to see God’s Kingdom come in their region. </span><br /><br />Through the work, labor, and endurance of our team, we saw amazing fruit produced as we put our faith, hope and love in Jesus Christ.Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-54919883287604139582010-12-21T22:41:00.000-08:002010-12-23T18:20:54.663-08:00Bringing You Up to Speed...Hello and Merry Christmas!<br /><div><br /></div>Here's an update on what's been happening in my life these past few weeks...<div><br /></div><div>The wedding of Amy-Joy and Andy Scalas, December 9, 2010.</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVrWH-PwU1ZJeURzDs-1HkCiI9aFM__4U8ZTdGRbNta9gb6o-snSGv7vBnBvrAJr-JnoKTxHV22fKZoUF7Mg9TgGU3c-qgGQnJy30nlEszds0bqhTz5eAKhyRFUU8Sl-xseTI9yzXntQs/s1600/154134_129870217074554_100001547294585_194924_3200448_n.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVrWH-PwU1ZJeURzDs-1HkCiI9aFM__4U8ZTdGRbNta9gb6o-snSGv7vBnBvrAJr-JnoKTxHV22fKZoUF7Mg9TgGU3c-qgGQnJy30nlEszds0bqhTz5eAKhyRFUU8Sl-xseTI9yzXntQs/s320/154134_129870217074554_100001547294585_194924_3200448_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553397340241214290" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px; " /></a></div><div>Amy-Joy is a close friend of mine from DTS.</div><div><br /></div><div>I had the honor of being a bridesmaid!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRZcfCGY1djU_zBbeuR1cOW2uIXgkEv4o9Klr2FX9n-ayDtU2a98eLUf-QqdiLm_3DEAzKrV6BVhxvCFJV6ZCpgMYrl39W2wNc_-UgiarTD9zBnDIpoeW55O7NtJOy6wOKNsx5NIxak8/s1600/163071_10150105315735100_592210099_7846532_1967466_n.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRZcfCGY1djU_zBbeuR1cOW2uIXgkEv4o9Klr2FX9n-ayDtU2a98eLUf-QqdiLm_3DEAzKrV6BVhxvCFJV6ZCpgMYrl39W2wNc_-UgiarTD9zBnDIpoeW55O7NtJOy6wOKNsx5NIxak8/s320/163071_10150105315735100_592210099_7846532_1967466_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553397349261984866" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 250px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The wedding was BEAUTIFUL. Amy-Joy (as you can see) looked absolutely radiant. It was so special for me to be a part of their wedding.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">In Class...</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> In class last week, we had project presentations. In the very beginning of the school, we were split up into pairs and given a world religion to research. <b>Myrriah and I were paired together and assigned Islam as our religion to present.</b> We have been working on this project the entire lecture phase. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> What is unique about this assignment is that we actually had to find a person (or people) to interview who are followers of that religion. <b>The point is to get an "insider's" point of view to really understand the culture and religion. </b>Depending on the people we interview, we then narrow down our project to present a specific "people-group" and develop a creative evangelism strategy to reach that people-group. Our presentations were to be 2 hours long and include interactive activities, visuals, etc.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span>So Myrriah and I interviewed 3 Muslim women for our project over the course of the lecture phase (the past 10 weeks). </b>After gathering all our material, we decided to present on the people group "Muslim Women in Australia". The project went so well- we both really enjoyed learning, then teaching about the culture, religion, and ways to build relationships with Muslims. <b>I found that God really developed a heart and passion in me to reach Muslims in Australia and around the world!</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Dressing up the guys in hijabs (headscarves) as part of our presentation. They really did enjoy this! :)</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61p8n611CKOh9sVNf4yaJoKzxhdDBDK6CYxv3zaHkAm-rjUi3iDHoMI4cyfM4DfcoJK-0bcBKF5DF8TwyhuLcbst-yzt_KUVCGhkxtmeSn8NdDWFtKlbTK8RgsysJ_R1Hc5MlIc-Ni7U/s1600/CIMG5199.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61p8n611CKOh9sVNf4yaJoKzxhdDBDK6CYxv3zaHkAm-rjUi3iDHoMI4cyfM4DfcoJK-0bcBKF5DF8TwyhuLcbst-yzt_KUVCGhkxtmeSn8NdDWFtKlbTK8RgsysJ_R1Hc5MlIc-Ni7U/s320/CIMG5199.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553923624337459362" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">Evangelism Stories...</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">Update on Genjiro</span></b></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> If you remember reading about my encounter with Genjiro from a few posts back (If you don't, it's worth scrolling down the page to read!), I wanted to let you know what ended up happening with him. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span>I got the opportunity to meet with him a third time.</b> During the week, I was working on getting a Bible for him in Japanese. I saw a Japanese Bible on the Koorong (an Australian Christian Bible store) website, but it was $34.00, a little too expensive for me to buy (I was still raising outreach fees at this point). <b>I prayed about it, and it was still such a strong burden on my heart to get this Bible for him.</b> So I went to Koorong on Saturday morning, having plans to meet with him that afternoon (I figured God would pay me back somehow). I got to the store, and an employee led me over to the foreign language Bibles. <b>Therein was a Japanese New Testament (not on the website) for only $11.00!</b> It is small and travel-sized, perfect for Genjiro who is backpacking around Australia. <b>I knew in my heart it was God's will for him to have this Bible, that God would reveal himself to him through it and change Genjiro's life forever. </b>I was so excited to give it to him!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I went with a friend to meet with Genjiro that afternoon. He was INCREDIBLY touched to receive this gift- I told him it was a Christmas present :) <b>He looked at the pages in adoration, excited to see it was in his own language.</b> He was most touched by the fact that I cared about him enough to go out of my way to bless him. I had written a personal message to him in the front of the Bible, making it even more special for him. He told me he would read and study. I truly believe he will recognize Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life as he reads about His incredible love displayed on the cross. <b>Please pray with me for Genjiro as he starts his journey to know God! </b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">Divine Appointments</span></b></i></span></div><div> Last Monday, I had a random, but really cool encounter with a woman. <b>I was walking back from Coles (a grocery store) when I saw a group of homeless, Aboriginal people sitting in a park along the way.</b> I was listening to my ipod but felt compelled to try and initiate conversation. <b>So I intentionally walked in the middle of where they were sitting, took out an earphone and said "Hello!" with a big smile on my face.</b> A man who was sitting said hello back and asked if I was ready for Christmas. Delighted that he engaged me in conversation, we began talking.</div><div><br /></div><div> I noticed there were two women sitting across from him, listening to music (they both had an earphone in their ear, sharing music). <b>One of the women looked up at me and asked what I was listening to. </b>We listened to each other's music and started making small talk. I sat down next to her in the grass, just listening to her, loving on her. <b>She looked at me intently and asked, "Are you a Christian?"</b> I said, "Yes! I am. How did you know?" She said she could tell by my voice, that there was something different about me. <b>THEN, she told me that she just got saved yesterday at church! </b>That she has been going to church these past few weeks and has felt God calling her back, away from the mess she has found herself in. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span>She asked me to please encourage her.</b> I got to pray over her and God gave me word after word of encouragement and affirmation. It was amazing. She also asked me if I would write in her new Bible that she received from the church, so I got to write an encouraging message for her. <b>We both marveled at the way God is sending people to encourage her in her faith </b>(she told me that I was not the first random encounter that she had that day!).</div><div><br /></div><div> What an amazing, amazing encounter! <b>From just one decision to take out an earphone and say hello, a divine appointment took place. </b>I love the way God works!</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">5 days until outreach...</span></span></i></b></div><div> Can you believe it?? I leave for Mexico City on Tuesday, December 28th. We have a lovely, 12 hour lay-over in Dubai, then fly to LA, then to Mexico City. <b>Please pray for smooth, safe travels. </b>We are all incredibly excited!</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">In the meantime...</span></span></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wc9JYfdlk53cYWgNzOTeKwGeMSGUB-YB-ogbMWmjWe-d0q7yirt8HR7DnYJs-W7lnQuhmUGkErXa7nj2DpZvJgQ0RSEHlxzfkVHHTyoJHGyrdFlIPphD4Dkgbc4Sir2og3dE8yM4dCU/s1600/061220101379.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wc9JYfdlk53cYWgNzOTeKwGeMSGUB-YB-ogbMWmjWe-d0q7yirt8HR7DnYJs-W7lnQuhmUGkErXa7nj2DpZvJgQ0RSEHlxzfkVHHTyoJHGyrdFlIPphD4Dkgbc4Sir2og3dE8yM4dCU/s320/061220101379.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553923620844248866" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;">Christmastime is here!</span></b> The stockings are hung all around the base, decorations and lights have been setup for a few weeks now, and everyone is excited for an all-day Christmas celebration. We have a nice breakfast on Christmas morning, then do a base-wide "white-elephant" gift exchange. We all have our own stockings that have been getting filled up this week by fellow YWAMers. There will also be buses taking us to the beach (It's going to be around 98 degrees on Christmas day!). It sounds like a fun day planned.</div><div><br /></div><div> I have certainly been missing my family this week, but God has been comforting me and giving me deeper understanding of the reason we celebrate Christmas. I've been seeking His face and experiencing His loving presence as He embraces me into His family. He is so good to me. He cares about every detail, every emotion, and takes care of me. What an amazing Father we have!</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Merry Christmas!</span></span></i></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Wishing all of you a wonderful Christmas holiday. Lots of blessings to all of you!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Love,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stephanie</span></div><div><br /></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-7179851794993965072010-12-17T15:13:00.000-08:002010-12-17T16:01:24.076-08:00FaithfulnessLet me fill you in on what's happening with fundraising...<br /><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Fundraising Update</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Our finances were due last week, but we were given some extra time for those who were still raising funds. As a school, we did 3 fundraisers: a breakfast, a car wash, and sold sunscreen door-to-door. We raised about $2,200.00 overall to be distributed among those in our class who were still in need. We worked hard, and it was well worth the effort in the end! Praise God!</div><div><br /></div><div>Cooking for the Breakfast: Moira and Justin</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMnQbkAwYvbUiYc7CIkBFHdrRv5sEx5TbOOdHv3OJnV9fjOZ2uIE333CTOroa2QcFZ7Edk9fs3Uu3aBsIuz1CxzqpUgId7Mwy87SSt14-FA1eyGJLPNOWrv53cGju4f0V7qgdjwGuWAk/s1600/CIMG5040.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMnQbkAwYvbUiYc7CIkBFHdrRv5sEx5TbOOdHv3OJnV9fjOZ2uIE333CTOroa2QcFZ7Edk9fs3Uu3aBsIuz1CxzqpUgId7Mwy87SSt14-FA1eyGJLPNOWrv53cGju4f0V7qgdjwGuWAk/s320/CIMG5040.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551797063378450370" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>SOE Car Wash</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZ9SyndaTOUBGm_RIrAuJ0PkJwvs90UZUZ7DYJE8a_m30L-kn4CeYj1p30-Thw-zHpRyR8hK07cokBzb4s3w_Euxu56z0wat_GTkP9WN3hic7DinvcsR8PTFmfaju5kVnfJsM9a7Eemk/s1600/162742_10150341172630187_854225186_16183811_2672047_n.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZ9SyndaTOUBGm_RIrAuJ0PkJwvs90UZUZ7DYJE8a_m30L-kn4CeYj1p30-Thw-zHpRyR8hK07cokBzb4s3w_Euxu56z0wat_GTkP9WN3hic7DinvcsR8PTFmfaju5kVnfJsM9a7Eemk/s320/162742_10150341172630187_854225186_16183811_2672047_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551797061340150514" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Back home, my sister-in-law, Melissa did a "cookie sale" for me at work. She is an AMAZING baker and really went all out, making all different kinds of cookies for donation. It was a huge success, raising $250! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a photo of the cookies that she made. Don't these look incredible?? YUM!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_3VXthDuwugpdWOPztpgKDFqsHGIoIItvNC2rzM8FFQunkku5Q7WiQ564jHdnX1maLVvBPpP5yFNC5DBPr4WFjHa6LhkQVriY1d6nM2nSOZvu60_ozxdQ6PTQcqt2L0MJNODjBFVETY/s1600/33834_10150330767085068_868170067_16043877_601393_n.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_3VXthDuwugpdWOPztpgKDFqsHGIoIItvNC2rzM8FFQunkku5Q7WiQ564jHdnX1maLVvBPpP5yFNC5DBPr4WFjHa6LhkQVriY1d6nM2nSOZvu60_ozxdQ6PTQcqt2L0MJNODjBFVETY/s320/33834_10150330767085068_868170067_16043877_601393_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551798656200404466" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Aside from this, I prayed A LOT, on my own and consistently with my school and as a base. We had countless prayer times for release of finances here on base. God gave me strategies during one specific prayer time when He dropped the idea of doing a Christmas ornament sale at church. My Mom put this into action for me, and it has raised over $1,000.00! I also heard that people are initiating their own fundraisers for me: a craft sale at church, and the OCC Night at Dickens to have some of the proceeds of the tickets go towards the ministry. I can't describe the overwhelming feeling of love and support I feel from people at home who want to partner with me. It's an incredible thing to see God at work. I have come to love the process because it's not just one quick fix to raise the money, it's everyone working together as the Body of Christ.</div><div><br /></div><div>All together, I raised $2,500.00 through fundraising efforts. My parents sold my Toyota Highlander to Carmax over the weekend and I was able to cover the remaining $2,000.00 with the money from my car. ALL glory to God for His amazing provision! I am so thankful.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, with all this said... <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I AM GOING TO MEXICO!!! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; font-size: small;">We leave in just 10 days.</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">MORE amazing news: Everyone on my school was miraculously provided for in various ways. Justin and Bree were still raising lecture fees, and were told about a week ago that someone covered everything, both lecture and outreach. How amazing is that?? </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We have two teams, a Perth outreach team, and a Mexico outreach team. Staying in Perth are Stephen, Bree, Justin, with outreach leaders Danny and Amy; Going to Mexico are Nathan, James, Myrriah, Ryan, Moira, and myself, with outreach leader Eric. We will be in Mexico for 6 weeks, then meet up with the Perth team and finish our outreach in Perth. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This next week is outreach preparation, then we celebrate Christmas, then leave on Tuesday, December 28th for Mexico. Please be praying as we prepare to leave! We are all very excited.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bless you and THANK YOU for all your prayers. Merry Christmas!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Stephanie</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-89615472176332768962010-12-03T18:24:00.000-08:002010-12-03T20:33:28.794-08:00Compelled by Love<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>"Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that <b>his kindness </b>is intended to turn you from your sin?" </i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>Romans 2:4 (NLT)</i></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>These past few weeks in lectures have been amazing. Within our topic of<b> Cross-Cultural Evangelism</b> (by speaker Ross Tooley), and my own personal times with God, I've gotten such deep revelation of God's love for us. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b>Here are the main lecture points of the week:</b></span></div><div><ul><li>God <b>loves us</b> into repentance. </li><li>Jesus <b>overwhelmed people</b> with the love and character of God, which then led to repentance. There is a sequence! Examples: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%204:%201-42&version=NKJV">John 4</a> (The Woman at the Well), <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2019:1-9&version=NKJV">Luke 19</a> (Zaccheaus), <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%205:1-15&version=NKJV">John 5</a> (The Pool at Bethesda), <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%208:1-11&version=NIV">John 8</a> (The Woman Caught in Adultery). </li><li>Jesus shows love and kindness before he introduces repentance. </li><li>Our role in evangelism is to present a true picture of God that people cannot help but fall in love with. </li><li>When you witness, believe that a loving God is already working on them.</li><li>God is already at work, just be diligent in what God gives you. Not your responsibility to lead them to Christ when they are not ready! (Could be an act of kindness, a listening ear, a cup of coffee, etc.)</li><li>LISTEN and LOVE. Lovingly replace the lies the person is believing with the truth. <b>The truth will set them free!</b></li><li>You can't lead people to Christ if they don't trust you. <b>People trust love</b>.<b> </b>Be genuine in loving the person with no selfish agenda. It is the revealing of God's love that makes a lasting impact.</li></ul><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; white-space: pre; "> </span>Jesus is the exact representation of God's character- a God who overwhelms us with His love.</b> People are resistant to God because they have believed in a false representation of God's character, unfortunately many times presented by the church. To see God's character perfectly revealed, we must look to Jesus, <i>the image of the invisible God</i> (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%201:15-17&version=NIV">Colossians 1:15</a>). <b>The character of God is no mystery- He has fully revealed himself in every way through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. </b></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>Our speaker, Ross Tooley (who is one of the original YWAMers and has been with YWAM for 45 years!) took us through all the major religions this week: Protestantism, Roman Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism. Having knowledge of these religions and belief systems makes it possible to effectively share the gospel using their own concepts/principles that they can relate to. However, we learned that <b>the most important cross-cultural tool is love.</b> Jesus shows us that <b>LOVE</b> is the power to reach hearts beyond theology and doctrine. <b>Sharing God's love with people is the key to bringing them to the Father.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; white-space: pre; "> </span>God's word to me this week is to overwhelm people with the love and goodness of God.</b> I've been asking God to increase my capacity to love. When people experience the love of God, they can begin to accept truth because they have experienced something real and personal to them. <b>God's love is astounding.</b> I will never stop growing in my understanding of His love.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Jesus' whole life of ministry was a compulsion of love.</b> I long to live my life this way.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>"<b>For God so loved the world</b> that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16</i></span></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b>Some stories from Evangelism:</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b>My Encounter with Emie</b></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">On Tuesday, I was walking alongside a park on the way to my dorm and I see this young man in an electric wheelchair just parked in the grass. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Holy Spirit moved me to go and talk to him, so I did, just struck up conversation.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I ended up sitting in the grass next to him for about 45 minutes, talking about all kinds of things. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">He has a condition called Cerebral Palsy where he suffers from loss of muscle control, cannot use his hands, and has difficulty using speech.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> His name is Emie. He is very intelligent and friendly, you just have to be patient as he speaks. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>I came to find that he is a motivational speaker for people with disabilities and has all sorts of passions and dreams! </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was the perfect platform to affirm with him the value and purpose of each and every individual.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> We talked about God, and I shared about how He created us with unique purpose and has a plan for each of our lives- that we are created for a reason. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I got to speak so much truth and value over his life- it was amazing!</span></b></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then, I invited him over to the base for lunch. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I got to serve and feed him, practically showing God's love and value for him.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> We continued to talk about God, and knowing I'm a Christian, he started asking questions about Jesus. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I got to share the gospel with him and shared my testimony. </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">He asked me more and more questions- I got to share so much with him.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After almost an hour, I walked with him back to the road and asked if I could pray for him. He gladly accepted, and it was so powerful. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">God's power moved through me in prayer as I spoke God's love, value, and blessing over his life- that nothing is impossible for those who are in Christ; that he may know God and experience God's grace and power to accomplish His will and purpose for his life.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> He was so completely touched by our time together; he just kept thanking me over and over. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">As thankful as he was, I felt that I was the one who was blessed this afternoon. </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I left feeling so inspired by his life- a true overcomer.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">What a divine appointment! </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Amazing what will happen as we listen and obey the leading of the Holy Spirit.</span></b></span></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b>A New Friend, Genjiro</b></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">James and I led evangelism on Thursday afternoon, leading a group of 100 people from the base. I gave a short devotion before we left about keeping love as our highest motivation, higher above any message we may give. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">During evangelism, I met a young man from Japan, Genjiro. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There was a strong language barrier, but God told me, "just love him." </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I kept asking him questions (half words, half sign language... it was quite comical) and got to know some things about him. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I found out he is Buddhist, but was incredibly open to hear about Jesus.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I told him I would try and get a Bible to him in his language, which he was very excited about. We made plans to meet on Saturday.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Well, Saturday came, and </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was unfortunately unable to find a Bible for him on base</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> ( We had Korean and Chinese, but no Japanese Bibles). </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So on Saturday morning, I got a little creative.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> He had given me an e-mail address, so I e-mailed him a Japanese gospel tract that I found online and sent it to him. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then, I spent about an hour creating an illustrated gospel booklet using simple English and pictures with the art supplies I have.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> It's kind of funny that I did that (I am not an artist by any means), but I feel I was being led by God to do this.</span></span></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I brought an orange and a bar of chocolate for him along with my booklet.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> He was so overwhelmed with gratitude, smiling ear to ear, bowing and thanking me. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was evident that the act of taking the time to create the gospel book spoke more to him than anything else. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We went through it, picture by picture, and he let me know that he has a Japanese/English dictionary to translate the words. </span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then I prayed for him.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> The Holy Spirit was strong; </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I could feel God ministering to his heart, revealing himself.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> After the prayer, he told me, </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"I could not understand all the words you were saying, but I could feel God inside of me"</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> as he put his hand over his heart. Praise God!! </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">He supernaturally touched Genjiro's heart.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> We made plans to meet again next week, this time (hopefully) with a Japanese Bible.</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b>Everything In Between...</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>Aside from lectures and evangelism, I am doing very well. I am really connecting with a classmate of mine, Moira. We've been spending a lot of time together and I'm really growing in my friendship with her. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>A highlight of my week last week was getting a Birthday package from Anne, Carrie, and Katy! I cried when I opened it (I'm a softie). In it was all kinds of essentials- a Camelback water bottle, a couple tops, a purse, music, toiletries, birthday cards... I was incredibly blessed by them. I love you girls so much!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>On Wednesday of this week, I preached the gospel to my class (as an assignment we have to do). We are told to be creative with it- it can be to any location and audience. I decided to make mine a Mexico City open air. I setup a space outside with a mexican blanket, sombrero, and a big sign that said "Bienvenido a Mexico" and ushered my class out of the classroom and preached the gospel to them. It was good practice for the real thing in just 3 weeks from now!!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; ">Friday, I led intercession for our class (we take turns in leading this each week). We prayed over each other in groups, getting our hearts clean before God and encouraging one another in areas of weakness. This time in prayer led to a 2 hour time in worship, seeking the face of God. It was incredible.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b>Thanks for Reading!</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>Sending lots of love to you, wherever you are in the world :) Please do not hesitate to e-mail, send a message on facebook, or let me know a time when I can Skype call you. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If you get a chance, could you please read the post below? I am in need of prayer in regards to finances.</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Love and Blessings,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stephanie</span></div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-1326086451143447112010-12-03T16:34:00.000-08:002010-12-03T18:22:59.575-08:00Partnership and Prayer RequestHello Everyone!<div><br /></div><div>So here is the finance update: <b>I have 4 more days to raise $3,000.00.</b> God has done miracles for me in the past, and I know this situation will be no different. However, <b>I am in great need of your prayers</b> during this time. Please pray for financial release to bring God's Kingdom to Mexico City and Australia.</div><div><br /></div><div>Below is my partnership request:</div><div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b>I am currently doing a School of Evangelism (SOE) in Perth, Australia with Youth With A Mission (YWAM).</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> I began in October and am in the eighth week of my school.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">The SOE has been amazing thus far. We have covered lecture topics such as Evangelism, Cross Cultural Communication, Spiritual Warfare, Holy Spirit, and Apologetics and go out into the community to evangelize three times a week, influencing the city of Perth for Christ. We have seen amazing fruit from these outings as we trust God and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. <b>I am growing in my relationship with God as I learn more about his character and his incredible love for all people.</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">The outreach phase of my school to <b>Mexico City</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> is just about three weeks away. </span><b>We leave on December 29<sup>th</sup> and return on February 14<sup>th</sup></b><span style="font-weight:normal">. YWAM Perth has been sending multi-disciplined teams into Mexico City to partner with the local church in reaching their city over the past 9 months. We have seen unprecedented citywide unity and evangelism resulting in over 7,500 salvations and many miracles of healing and deliverance.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">My team will work in a region of the city to serve and come alongside churches and existing ministries, as well as equip, mobilize and release local believers in evangelism. <b>We will do this through running evangelism seminars and taking people out onto the streets for ministry</b><span style="font-weight:normal">. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">After leaving Mexico City, my team will <b>return to Perth</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> where we will again </span><b>partner with local churches through evangelism seminars and impact their region of the city.</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> Our desire and intention is to be a blessing and catalyst for transformation both in and outside the church.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b>I would like to provide opportunity for you to "go" through me by investing prayerfully and financially in this trip.</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> This 11-week outreach requires a cost of $4,500. God has been providing, but </span><b>I still have a need of $3,000 by December 10, 2010.</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> My commitment to you is to serve the Lord diligently with all my heart, while keeping you informed of how your gift is building God's Kingdom in Mexico and Australia.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">If you feel to contribute (no amount is too small!), here is how:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">1. First and foremost we need prayer and covering during our time away. <b>Please keep me and my team in your prayers</b><span style="font-weight:normal">.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">2. Make out a check out to OCC (tax-deductible) and mail to:<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Orlando Community Church<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>1067 Rainer Drive, Suite 1003<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Altamonte Springs, FL 32714<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">Write “Stephanie-YWAM” on the memo line.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">3. Youth With A Mission Perth's website:<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Helvetica;"><a href="http://www.ywamperth.org.au/"><span style="Times New Roman";font-family:";color:#083AA5;">www.ywamperth.org.au</span></a></span> and go to credit card payments. Please ensure you send an email with my name, the amount you send, and what it is for "SOE outreach fees”.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b>Thank you so much for prayerfully considering partnering with me on this outreach!</b><span style="font-weight:normal"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none">Blessings,</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><!--[if supportFields]><span style="';font-family:ArialMT';"><span style="'mso-element:field-begin'"></span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>CONTACT _Con-376A53281 \c \s \l <span style="'font-family:"><span style="'mso-element:field-separator'"></span></span><![endif]-->Stephanie Ungaro<!--[if supportFields]><span style="';font-family:ArialMT';"><span style="'mso-element:field-end'"></span></span><![endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><br /></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-67851532652002256252010-11-22T03:51:00.001-08:002010-11-22T05:53:39.284-08:00Some Birthday Pictures...<div>Just wanted to share some pictures from my birthday :)</div><div><br /></div><div>My class decorated our classroom!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6FVk8HmweS53pnhJ9K28JSpwqJpMuhaDJF5KOIc0zTWfJm-bf7f0RteDBXOzLbI1_B2QTGkQGHWruww8GX7yxtxxp4j4Rxql-22vQBHngCuykG66iC2pvE6byRiv-z8-McsH8fS8yhOk/s1600/CIMG5023.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6FVk8HmweS53pnhJ9K28JSpwqJpMuhaDJF5KOIc0zTWfJm-bf7f0RteDBXOzLbI1_B2QTGkQGHWruww8GX7yxtxxp4j4Rxql-22vQBHngCuykG66iC2pvE6byRiv-z8-McsH8fS8yhOk/s320/CIMG5023.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542364305965257506" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone singing to me...</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3tTZGlGA3zN8We84uRk_rBqmYjPdmvfY_JU23vwwrOyWyjPnFefLqqX0ppSiGvzsuLi73qL9OuAAVMF_ddgW7yfM_to1HAFS34Hl6mUKzmMINB1d1LBjdV31wjh4cAiGcznUmqWYBY0/s1600/CIMG5028.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3tTZGlGA3zN8We84uRk_rBqmYjPdmvfY_JU23vwwrOyWyjPnFefLqqX0ppSiGvzsuLi73qL9OuAAVMF_ddgW7yfM_to1HAFS34Hl6mUKzmMINB1d1LBjdV31wjh4cAiGcznUmqWYBY0/s320/CIMG5028.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542364314221195570" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>My SOE Class</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6d024OUeIv68kyw9215_YSyDQnVSMWrgL3GhfMJ-BF7HY32mL991JGLmT5vHf96RvcNw8yUsYrVjKM2U1vbiNiG0vKtUk3WiSoIJmKn8APOtNXZx_FDbGWOczQMcaqEBSIu4LeqPvl0/s1600/CIMG5035.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6d024OUeIv68kyw9215_YSyDQnVSMWrgL3GhfMJ-BF7HY32mL991JGLmT5vHf96RvcNw8yUsYrVjKM2U1vbiNiG0vKtUk3WiSoIJmKn8APOtNXZx_FDbGWOczQMcaqEBSIu4LeqPvl0/s320/CIMG5035.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542364319153924450" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div>From left: Stephen, James, Fred, Bree, Myrriah, Justin, Danny (school leader), ME, Amy (staff), Kersti (staff), Above me from left: Eric (staff), Miles, Moira, Nathan, Ryan.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>My birthday dinner! The table was beautifully decorated.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXTVcrtSsiGe7HC8zyjTlX7YZIaUryz4C0UnDu-YtbnUoTY5m2YCqePC6YOYwyZkyXqAHK3VFej90QXPnbCxFHoQu2ituGMF1CId5tTBhZoxxyDnsE9UhFZZZ5R8VqCdGNEQQFISSyZ4/s1600/CIMG5055.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXTVcrtSsiGe7HC8zyjTlX7YZIaUryz4C0UnDu-YtbnUoTY5m2YCqePC6YOYwyZkyXqAHK3VFej90QXPnbCxFHoQu2ituGMF1CId5tTBhZoxxyDnsE9UhFZZZ5R8VqCdGNEQQFISSyZ4/s320/CIMG5055.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542364987881619842" /></a><br /><br />A video of the YWAM Perth Birthday Song! And my amazing cake :)<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwkA7RjWQYxe5fUYpW__TvHn70FwbMbhT1TeAfQHcdydgrfaXnZa_H8NtDjOmMY4rrnLYAFPUL85LF1BiG57A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>I had such a great birthday. I felt very loved and special even though I was away from family and friends. What a great day!</div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-51693013915108841062010-11-21T02:38:00.000-08:002010-11-21T04:54:48.984-08:00Summer in November<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Hello Everyone!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> It has been a bit of time since I’ve given an update. The summer is here in Perth, as today I experienced my hottest day so far here- right at 100 degrees! I’m told it gets even hotter in January/February... around 110, but thankfully I’ll be in Mexico for most of that time.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> The weeks are flying by. <b>I can’t believe I’m at the end of week 7 already.</b> Every week brings so many amazing new things as I gain deeper understanding of God and His purposes. <b>God speaks something new every day.</b> It is incredible to be in this environment of being in the presence of God, surrounded by so many devoted believers, all learning and growing in Him and impacting the places He calls us to go. <b>I recognize that I am so blessed to be here and I thank you so much for sending me out! </b>Your support is what got me here and onto this journey with God.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> There is so much to say about these past three weeks. So much has happened! It would be far too much to type all my revelations and everything God has been speaking to me. <b>I hope these summaries give you an idea of what God is teaching me.</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i>Lecture Summaries:</i></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> Week 5, we had the topic “Spiritual Warfare”. <b>I learned that prayer is our most powerful weapon against the enemy and therefore must be consistently involved in our lifestyles. </b>We must ask God to open our eyes to the spiritual realm to effectively battle against the powers of darkness, pour in God’s presence, and be vessels to bring God’s Kingdom on earth. </p><p class="MsoNormal"> We read "Eternity in their Hearts" by Don Richardson during weeks 5 and 6. This book is INCREDIBLE. <a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0ByioPKFU_wEoN2FlOWFlNTktNmI3YS00N2U0LTg4ZTUtOTU0NGFkYzM3Zjk4&hl=en">Click here</a> to see my book report.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> Week 6, our topic was “Holy Spirit” taught by Peter Brownhill, the YWAM Perth base director. <b>The teaching this week brought deeper understanding of the authority Christ gives us as believers and the church. </b>This is the place from which every believer must move from: <b>knowing our identity as a child of God and standing firm in our position with Christ.</b> The more this truth is deeply rooted in our lives, the more effectively the Holy Spirit can move through us to work in the community and in other people’s lives and do amazing things!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> This past week, our school leader, Danny Taylor, taught us about Spiritual Gifts and Apologetics. <b>We learned that the gifts of the Spirit are used for the common good, to encourage others and to show the reality of God.</b> Apologetics, or the defense of the gospel, can be used in love to give logical reasons for our faith when faced with unbelief. A good point Danny spoke to us is that <b>“a person’s heart will never accept something their mind rejects.”</b> Using apologetics, as led by the Holy Spirit, opens a person’s receptivity to follow Christ.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><i>New Revelations:</i></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> God has been challenging me in my prayer life. <b>He is calling me to become more disciplined, earnest, intensely passionate and committed in my prayer times.</b> I have much growing to do in this area. I must be deliberate in increasing prayer in my lifestyle with the faith that I will see breakthrough as God moves through my devotion.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> In light of this understanding about the power of prayer, <b>I have been spending an hour in prayer and worship before evangelism outings.</b> As I put this into practice, I notice my faith and level of expectancy is really increasing. <b>I go into evangelism expecting God to do amazing things.</b> Through the release of God’s power through prayer and the increase of my faith, my times in evangelism have been markedly more fruitful. Exciting to see this Biblical principle lived out in my own life!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> God's challenge to me this week has been to step out in the gifts more. It has been a week of building up my faith. I feel that God is pouring more and more into me as a result of greater intimacy with Him and is encouraging me to take greater steps of faith. Putting this into practice, our school has spent time praying over one another to get words of encouragement from God, building one another up. It was miraculous to get messages for each other that were spot-on from God. Amazing that we have a God who looks for all kinds of ways to affirm and encourage us! How awesome is He.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Evangelism...</span></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Amazing, amazing things have happened in evangelism this month. As a base, we have gone out twice (all 300 of us) into the city to publicly worship and share with people who stop and wonder what we are singing about. <b>Through these times, we saw 2 salvations through meaningful conversations, many heard the gospel, and several received prayer.</b> God is moving in this city and it is exciting to be apart of what He is doing!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">One cool story from evangelism:</span></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> This friday, my school went in pairs to a nearby mall to allow God to lead us to anyone He wanted us to speak with, praying beforehand for words that would direct us to specific people. Okay, you might be thinking this is a bit strange, and I realize it's a bit "out-there" to walk up to someone random with a message from God, but it's amazing to witness the power of a specific message to bring faith and hope to a person's life. If it leads people closer to God, I'm all for it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was paired up with my classmate Miles. He got the word "fountain" so we went in search of a fountain in the mall. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We finally came across a fountain and saw a woman sitting on a bench right next to it.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> We walked away to pray about the message God wanted to give her. We prayerfully agreed that God wanted to encourage her that He is taking care of her family. I approached her alone in case she would be uncomfortable with two people coming up to her. I told her that I'm a Christian and I was praying in the mall and felt that </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">God had a specific message for her that He is taking care of her family, and not to worry because He loves her and will take good care of them.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> She looked at me with wonder in her eyes. She asked, </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"God sent you to </span></b><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">me</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> to tell me that?"</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> and went on to tell me that she has been struggling to provide for her two girls because she is unemployed and is constantly worried about the future of her family. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In fact, she had a job interview at a store in the mall in just 30 minutes and told me how nervous she was because she really needs the work.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> We agreed of how much God must love her to send someone to let her know that she doesn't need to worry, that He has it all under control. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then I asked if I could pray for her, which she gratefully accepted.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I thanked God for his care and provision for her family and prayed for her interview- that peace would come over her and for the Holy Spirit to lead and guide her through each question. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">She started weeping as I spoke of God's love, faithfulness, and tender care over her life and His promise to never leave her. </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">She was so touched by this encounter with the Lord. Isn't God amazing??</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i>Everything in between...</i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> So, Friday, November 19th, was </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">my birthday!</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I had a WONDERFUL day. My friends on my school decorated our classroom and we had a fun time celebrating. I felt so loved all day long.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> My friend Nikki who staffs at the Gold Coast base came to Perth this month to visit her family. We were able to spend time together a few times this month, which was such a blessing. It was so nice to see a familiar face.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I gave a devotion this week in front of my class</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">, teaching about Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well in </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%204:%201-42&version=NIV"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">John 4</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">. I feel I am growing in a gift of teaching... I really enjoyed this and would like to pursue teaching more.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><i>Concluding words...</i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> OCC, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your continued support. To my beloved family and friends- I miss you so much it hurts sometimes. I know I am in the center of God's will, which gives me great joy, but not a day goes by when I do not think of you. Thank you for your prayers, support, and unconditional love for me! I love you all very much.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Thank you for reading :) God bless.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Love,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stephanie</span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-7212610895124143192010-11-08T05:27:00.001-08:002010-11-08T21:26:04.243-08:00Photos!<div>Outside of my dorm building...</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRs4f74elnG9INMWcqPY0ktw0jzrqxbjOoY42CESDT0N3A2qsYYyvjuH5Xvo63n20VMu49F5B5iwBIMYFPyL0ahBLCF2QZKDsvI-eWSqeBJXI5lRg82g32ed0B7P-zF3GjPpVQqxE03E/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRs4f74elnG9INMWcqPY0ktw0jzrqxbjOoY42CESDT0N3A2qsYYyvjuH5Xvo63n20VMu49F5B5iwBIMYFPyL0ahBLCF2QZKDsvI-eWSqeBJXI5lRg82g32ed0B7P-zF3GjPpVQqxE03E/s320/IMG_0001.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537170266488102594" /></a><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRs4f74elnG9INMWcqPY0ktw0jzrqxbjOoY42CESDT0N3A2qsYYyvjuH5Xvo63n20VMu49F5B5iwBIMYFPyL0ahBLCF2QZKDsvI-eWSqeBJXI5lRg82g32ed0B7P-zF3GjPpVQqxE03E/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg"></a>Down the street I live on that leads to the base...<br /><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRs4f74elnG9INMWcqPY0ktw0jzrqxbjOoY42CESDT0N3A2qsYYyvjuH5Xvo63n20VMu49F5B5iwBIMYFPyL0ahBLCF2QZKDsvI-eWSqeBJXI5lRg82g32ed0B7P-zF3GjPpVQqxE03E/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wEO57sCHZofWgY1Q0rUwrzaEYRJsE4Rho0FunihiKGLNxwfNH8CPpbbtUHgaFMCGZFybnKYn9SYZoqse7MjJO_iGjl9GpnUdKIRC9z4uw_e5c69yU-dUDDh_CL7p4zusXTGKFf3viXY/s1600/IMG_0005.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wEO57sCHZofWgY1Q0rUwrzaEYRJsE4Rho0FunihiKGLNxwfNH8CPpbbtUHgaFMCGZFybnKYn9SYZoqse7MjJO_iGjl9GpnUdKIRC9z4uw_e5c69yU-dUDDh_CL7p4zusXTGKFf3viXY/s320/IMG_0005.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537170490366326482" style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Inside of my dorm from my bed...</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ0e3OhLbd9h3rzxh6CfvUL6Fot-_KXnnNa82gkNwsD2-PxCX7GXoBCjFLfvGxB0vWJsz9mWB0HC5L1fzptiH2hsyyybA9dWlpzo1FTsBO8EhmVq48K0vXdhKfv7_MaZG9MYBHe_UCR7U/s1600/IMG_0006.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ0e3OhLbd9h3rzxh6CfvUL6Fot-_KXnnNa82gkNwsD2-PxCX7GXoBCjFLfvGxB0vWJsz9mWB0HC5L1fzptiH2hsyyybA9dWlpzo1FTsBO8EhmVq48K0vXdhKfv7_MaZG9MYBHe_UCR7U/s320/IMG_0006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537170831160901650" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>City of Perth!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-NVLD68FRTe1hBRbG8aPwzxE9r17x4MG9fztaJaGAp8kVpgkNFCvdM_TPiLKcYF_IhLT_obtw5k5Mn2zrI7uH006gnNH3gu8_QWigI7BrXdOy8UIWkN2Sj0eXXGEWE5THjKgl6xirYY/s1600/CIMG4809.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-NVLD68FRTe1hBRbG8aPwzxE9r17x4MG9fztaJaGAp8kVpgkNFCvdM_TPiLKcYF_IhLT_obtw5k5Mn2zrI7uH006gnNH3gu8_QWigI7BrXdOy8UIWkN2Sj0eXXGEWE5THjKgl6xirYY/s320/CIMG4809.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537171195853587778" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The girls on my school</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLObkyeHC_ly9an-tjftwIXuJ-aEdywJ4tKTwy6SH6eQZXRHuRK9_mBFzC_ESiF6S28oyjkDp0_bwJ7YPCb6XfICaZ6HlSlDJbhlqkvsWiWAPSmr4Xbo0gzYNC64yY69A4VFsjHx75DQY/s1600/DSC_1225.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLObkyeHC_ly9an-tjftwIXuJ-aEdywJ4tKTwy6SH6eQZXRHuRK9_mBFzC_ESiF6S28oyjkDp0_bwJ7YPCb6XfICaZ6HlSlDJbhlqkvsWiWAPSmr4Xbo0gzYNC64yY69A4VFsjHx75DQY/s320/DSC_1225.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537171512610933842" style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div>From left: Bree, Myrriah, Me, and Moira</div><div><br /></div><div>I will post a picture of my whole school soon! (There are 7 guys)</div><div><br /></div><div>More pictures soon to come :)</div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-53681718293784992332010-11-06T02:17:00.000-07:002010-11-06T02:30:40.215-07:00Praise Report and Financial UpdateGod provided the rest of my lecture fees this week! PRAISE GOD! He is so faithful. Thank you everyone for praying!<div><br /></div><div>Another praise report is that my health is fully restored as of yesterday. I had a very fast recovery from a terrible head cold due to all the prayers that I received. I am very thankful!</div><div><br /></div><div>I do have just one month to raise my outreach fees ($4200). I am trying to sell my car at the moment, but have not had a single person interested yet. Please pray for financial breakthrough however God wants to raise these funds. Please also pray for my classmates, Bree and Justin, as they are still raising both lecture and outreach fees. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you so much for your consistent prayers... they are certainly making a huge impact and I am so appreciative :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Blessings,</div><div>Stephanie</div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-14902422867865500712010-11-03T15:46:00.000-07:002010-11-03T00:55:15.355-07:00"Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep"<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Hello and G'day!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Hope you are having a fantastic week! It is definitely warming up here in Perth. We've had some very hot days this week. </p><p class="MsoNormal">I'm not sure if you've noticed, but I've been a bit behind in posting my blog updates. This post is from last week. Our topic was <b>Cross-Cultural Communication</b> by YWAM Lausanne base director, Markus Steffen, a Swiss-German, who we had the tremendous honor of learning from this week.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Click <a href="https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0ByioPKFU_wEoYjA1NDhmNGEtN2VlYy00YTRkLWI1MmUtOTAwZGRjYWU2MDQy&hl=en&authkey=CKbkmMkL">here</a> to see my lecture notes :)</p><p class="MsoNormal">Cross-Cultural Communication is an essential teaching for the evangelist. It all starts with loving the person, considering them and their interests above our own, and taking the time to fully engage them. Once the connection takes place, our message can come alongside this loving connection.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>I was personally challenged this week in the area of controlling my tongue. In times of frustration, I too often let my flesh speak negativity. I realize that I have self control available from the Holy Spirt to help me through frustration, but God took me a step further in this teaching. My tongue should be set apart for the glory of God to bring fruit and life into the world. Our words <u>matter</u> all the time. I want to submit my words to Him, speaking only the truth onto myself and others, despite how I feel. God has given each of us the powerful responsibility to use our words wisely. It is the power to bring life or death (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+18:21&version=NIV">Proverbs 18:21</a>).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>A base event...</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"></span>This Thursday evening, we had a event at Scarborough beach, run by a YWAM Perth ministry called <a href="http://www.ywamperth.org.au/ibreeze/">Island Breeze</a>. Island Breeze is a Polynesian cultural ministry that shares the Gospel through music and dance. They do an AMAZING job! Very talented men and women, and it is fun to watch. In the event, they had musical performances by the Island Breeze dancers and had a few testimonies in between the performances, with a Gospel invitation at the end. Earlier in the day, Danny asked if I would be willing to share my testimony. I was nervous at first, but once I started speaking, the words just flowed out of my mouth. It was amazing to share with so many people and I pray that God used my words to stir hearts and bring others closer to Him. The night was definitely a memorable one for me, and a tremendous opportunity to share with the people in the community.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>One story to share from evangelism this week:</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">Before evangelism on Friday, Danny got the words "lost sheep" from God and felt to send us out in pairs to find one person that God leads us to minister to.</p><p class="MsoNormal">I partnered with a guy named Jeffrey from Indonesia. We both felt led to go to a nearby park. In the park was an aboriginal woman who was sitting alone in the grass. We walked over to her, introduced ourselves and started making conversation, then asked if we could sit down with her to continue to talk. We spent time getting to know her and had the most amazing conversation. There seemed to be a lot of pain in her life as she copes with it through alcohol which has gripped her for many years. She recognizes the destruction of it and had stopped drinking for about a week now, so she is in a place where she desires to make things better. Jeffrey shared his testimony with her and it was so powerful- going from the <u>depths</u> of despair to finding hope in Christ. After this, she started opening up to us about her past, and sharing her story with us. We listened intently for 10 minutes and as she cried and told us her pain. It was a beautiful and amazing thing to speak truth into this woman’s life and tell her the hope of the Gospel. We spoke of the redeeming and healing power of God with the hope that these words will take root in her spirit. We prayed over her and by the look of her eyes, she was completely touched by the love of God. She received a Bible from us and I pray that God continues to gently pursue her.</p> <i>God, you are incredible. Your love is amazing. You are a God that goes after the lost sheep, the One that comes searching for us when we go astray. Thank you for your unfailing love and devotion to leading us in right relationship with you. What an honor it is to be used by you.</i> <!--EndFragment--> <div><i><br /></i></div><div><b>A few prayer requests: </b></div><div><ul><li>I have been feeling sick this week. Sinus pressure, cold symptoms. Please pray for quick healing, as I do not have finances right now to buy medicine.</li><li>Speaking of finances, please pray for God's provision for the remainder of my lecture fees. About another $500 to go. I also need to raise $4,500 for my outreach to Mexico City in about a month's time. I will give you more details of my outreach needs by the end of the week. </li></ul><div><b>What is happening with you?</b> Please let me know if I can be praying for anything for you or your family, or just fill me in on what's going in your life! I long to remain connected to friends and family around the world. Send me an e-mail at stephanieungaro@hotmail.com, mail me a letter (to the address in Perth on the right side of my blog), or post a comment! :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for reading! </div><div><br /></div><div>Lots of love,</div><div>Stephanie</div><div><br /></div><b></b></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-86588878276418017682010-11-02T04:10:00.000-07:002010-11-02T05:57:22.770-07:00Video Update!<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw42OlxIvuq_vnSjCRWCvaeP5HfgrPOH3F3TF45xgKFtt4P_WWPa9LTEFmkXO6eO5IcrH2o3oGOIQOccn3NKg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>A short video update. I get attacked by a fly at the end :)</div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-17116708231555425392010-11-01T01:44:00.001-07:002010-11-01T07:23:23.748-07:00Plow, Plant, Water, Reap!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Hello Readers :)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">All I can say about this week is... WOW! The topic this week was called Personal Evangelism. I learned so much! Our speaker was actually brought to us via live video through a video conference call system called Genesis (similar to Skype). His name is Danny Lehmann, director of YWAM Hawaii. He has an incredible anointing in the area of evangelism and imparted his wisdom and passion to us this week.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Click <a href="https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0ByioPKFU_wEoYzI2MzYwZWUtMmIwNi00ODcxLTljZWEtNzEzNTRkNTEzMDNl&hl=en">here</a> to see my lecture notes on Personal Evangelism.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Something I was most challenged by this week was my need for God to move me into a place of <b>brokenness</b>. God wants to break my heart for people. Realizing that brokenness is a painful position, I choose to love through pain, just as Jesus did, in order to reflect the love of God to others. I lay down my comfort, my whole self, with the knowledge that God moves through a place of brokenness to reach His people. <b>I willingly lay my life down for the cause of Christ, for the beautiful people He created.</b> I pray that God gives me the grace and strength to walk out this renewed mindset in true and faithful obedience.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>One cool story from evangelism this week in the city:</b> </p><p class="MsoNormal">I spoke with a young aboriginal girl, 17 years old, who stopped with her family to watch one of our dramas. I started up a conversation with her, which eventually led to asking questions about her faith. <b>She had no real knowledge of Jesus and seemed hardened with indifference, but was very open to hear.</b> I got to share with her the Gospel and told her the amazing impact that God has had on my life. As I was sharing, God was giving me words to tell her- words about her great value in the eyes of God and His love for her. At this, I could tell she was softening, taking in the truth of what I was saying. In the meantime, another YWAMer was speaking with her mother and two little brothers, who were very receptive to hearing his message. The mom asked for prayer and accepted a Bible. <b>I pray that God continues to reveal himself to this family and that they surrender their lives to Jesus as they discover His love and truth.</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This week, we had a book report due on a book called <i>Going Public with the Gospel</i>. The book caused me to think of ideas and methods to reach the lost in the context of a city or community. Click <a href="https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0ByioPKFU_wEoOTRhYWFkZWMtOTdmNC00NWVhLWFhMzAtNmFjOWRmYzQ0NTZh&authkey=COH4jqAE&hl=en">here</a> to see my book report.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Every Friday evening, we have a base-wide church service. Peter Brownhill (director of YWAM Perth) gave the message this week, and it was a message that I will not forget. He spoke on the meaning of <b>true servanthood</b>, as seen in <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2017:7-10&version=NLT">Luke 17: 7-10</a>. I realized that I often look to the approval of people when I am working, craving acceptance and encouragement. However, <b>true servanthood is found in obedience and humility, without expecting anything in return</b>. Reaching this place of humility requires us to lay down our "rights" as humans to be recognized, valued, respected, with the knowledge that we are incredibly blessed to be serving the living God. Jesus laid down his rights as he became fully human, taking the very nature of a servant (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians%202:5-11&version=NIV">Philippians 2:5-11</a>). I had a time of laying down my rights and repented of my ungratefulness. <b>My heart moved into a place of sincere, overwhelming gratitude to be in the amazing position I am in to serve in the Kingdom of God.</b> I desire to walk in obedience to the Father without the approval of people, with the knowledge that I will one day be lifted up in honor by God himself in heaven, receiving His ultimate approval- What could be greater?</p><p class="MsoNormal">Definitely a lot of growth is happening in places I did not expect. God is expanding my character. It is challenging, but very good. I feel He is using this time to prepare my heart for the mission field. He is toughening my character to withstand the challenges that life in missions will bring, and breaking my heart to love people with everything I have. With this knowledge, I am deeply motivated to continue to press in to God and walk in obedience to His teaching. God is doing amazing things!</p><p class="MsoNormal">That is all for now. Thank you for reading all that I am learning and processing! And above all, thank you for praying for me. Not a day goes by where I am not thinking about all my friends and family back home. I love you all so much!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Bless you,</p><p class="MsoNormal">Stephanie</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <!--EndFragment-->Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-11449232099095693162010-10-18T01:14:00.000-07:002010-10-18T01:29:47.582-07:00Infinite Value<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Hello Blog Readers!</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Hope you are well. I’ve had another challenging, yet amazing, week in Perth as I continue on with the </span></span><span style="color:blue;"><a href="http://www.ywamperth.org.au/soe/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">School of Evangelism</span></span></a></span><a href="http://www.ywamperth.org.au/soe/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">.</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> We had the privilege of having Peter Brownhill, the YWAM Perth base director, speak to us on the Nature and Character of God. Though I had this topic on my DTS, this teaching reinforced my knowledge and brought about new revelations on who God is, how others view God, the importance of knowing God intimately, and Biblical understanding of His characteristics. I also found that as I went deeper into learning the aspects of God’s character, it caused me to examine my own character and ask for grace on areas that I fall short.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Click </span></span><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1hxc3PohcMlt0dgpBt3nkR8ff0y1m2pMZLTRR-prRzJg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> to see the main lecture points that stood out to me.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Something I was most challenged by this week was the understanding of Paul’s value system in </span></span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians%203:7-11&version=NIV"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Philippians 3:7-11</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">- </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Nothing could even compare to the value of knowing Christ. </span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This verse hit me hard and I’ve been thinking about it all week. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">How deeply I desire this revelation of God’s infinite value!</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> In asking God for more understanding of this verse, He has been opening up my eyes to the ways I can value Him more.</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I want to show how much I value Him through the everyday decisions that I make, like how I spend my free time or giving full attention in my quiet times, fully engaging in knowing Him more, prioritizing time with God over all other things.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> I am realizing that these small decisions speak the loudest to God and are what He cares about most. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">He looks at the heart.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Lord, I ask that you would increase my understanding of how valuable you are in my life- so much so that nothing else matters but knowing you and spending time with you, that I may give you more of the love, praise, and worship you deserve. You are so worthy.</span></span></i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">It’s amazing to me the ways </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">God is calling me to go deeper.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> It shows that He really does want more intimacy with me. It’s not to make me feel guilty about choices that I make, it’s to make me more aware of the ways I can become closer to God, simple things that make a significant difference in my relationship with Him. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">He is pursuing me, calling me. I will listen, obey, and respond to the call. </span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Evangelism this week…</span></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">God did amazing things in our time in evangelism this week!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">One cool story:</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">On Monday, we did outreach in the city with the Art Evangelism students. The exhibited their art and we did public worship. I</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> spoke with a young guy from Thailand, a student, 19 years old, who was so open to hear about Jesus and asked me lots of questions.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> Growing up around Asian religions, </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">he had never heard the gospel in its fullness</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">, so that was exciting to be able to share with him. He said he went to church for the first time 2 weeks ago because his dad was hospitalized due to an illness. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">He prayed to God that if his dad recovered, that he would believe.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> I saw he was wearing a cross necklace and he said he bought it as a symbol of that prayer, kind of a promise to God. I asked, well what happened?? </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">And he said that his dad is at home, doing well!</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> Praise God!! We talked about how it was no coincidence that we met and that </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">God was confirming to him once again of his reality, by lovingly pursuing him.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> I encouraged him to invite Jesus to be a part of his life, that it would change his life forever. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I have full confidence in this young man’s salvation.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> It was exciting to be a part of his journey.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">The lecture material was very helpful to use in evangelism. Particularly useful are the “three views of God” that Peter shared, which help to identify with people who have come from painful backgrounds, which can alter their view of God. I also found the explanation of the trinity very helpful to paint a clear picture of God’s oneness- I used this explanation to a Muslim man this week.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">We do evangelism three times per week, twice in the city, and once a week at various locations in Perth, such as different beaches, parks, neighborhoods, etc.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Everything in between...</span></span></b></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I am very much enjoying my time here in Perth. It is beautiful. It is springtime here, and has been somewhat cold, but it is starting to warm up as it gets closer to the summer. An interesting fact about Perth- the heat brings TONS of flies… yuck! They are everywhere.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Well, that is all for this week. About to do my work duty- dinner dishes (for 300 people). It is hard work!</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Thanks for reading! </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Love and Blessings,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Stephanie</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-89598752271655662592010-10-09T22:37:00.000-07:002010-10-10T00:25:03.701-07:00Love God, Love the Body<div>Hello Friends!</div><div><br /></div> I have reached the end of my first week of lectures. Hard to believe it's only been a week, I feel like I have been here much longer!<div><br /></div><div> What an incredible week it was. Our topic for week one was called "Bible Unity and Evangelism" taught by Shirley Brownhill, the YWAM Perth base director. We were SO blessed to have her as a speaker- it was amazing to start the School of Evangelism off with Shirley's teaching. Wisdom flows from this woman. I spent the week just trying to soak in drops of wisdom. Here are some of the lecture points that brought revelation to me:</div><div><ul><li>When God talks about advancing his Kingdom, he talks about the <i>body</i>.</li><li>God's dream: that every tribe, every tongue, every nation will stand before the throne (perfect unity). Our unity and actions give people a taste of what heaven will be like.</li><li>God has not asked us to do anything that is not possible by his grace and his power.</li><li>We must find our security in Jesus and let his love, grace, and power bring unity in our relationships.</li><li>The <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%202:%2042-47&version=NIV">Acts 2</a> Church models perfect Bible unity. Blueprint to bring God's presence into a community.</li><li>We, the church, have the opportunity to show people, communities, nations, how to live in communion with God and with one another. </li><li>The Acts 2 Church opened doors in their community. People are attracted to communities united by the love of Christ, because it is reflecting the character of God. When people see Jesus, they will love him!</li><li>The anointing and the blessing comes with unity (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20133&version=NIV">Psalm 133</a>).</li><li>One of the biggest lies of the enemy devised to bring disunity is that the basis of commitment is mutual perfection. He knows how powerful unity is, and he is out to destroy it.</li><li>The most powerful form of warfare we can do is to commit ourselves to Bible unity.</li><li><b>If we truly love God, we should also love the body of Christ.</b></li><li>There is no reserve in the character of God. He is a <i>communicator.</i> He will never remove himself from us- He is <i>committed</i> to the absence of reserve.</li><li>Forgiveness is our source of life!</li><li>Always find yourself in the context of team. Unity=power. Power to see exponential change in communities, to see breakthrough in the ability to spread the gospel, give healthcare, whatever God's will may be.</li><li>God uses every trial or difficulty we face as a shaping mechanism to make our character more like His (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:2-4&version=NIV">James 1:2-4</a>).</li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>I felt very challenged this week in multiple areas of my walk with God. God was speaking to me about areas of my heart where I haven't loved the body of Christ in the fullness that he calls me to love. <b>Loving the body is not an option, it is a command.</b> Reflecting on God's command to love the body and become one with the body, I felt God say "Let me transform you by becoming more deeply committed to the body." </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Leading up to this school, I have been praying and praying for deep transformation to be God's hand to reach the lost. I feel like God has been answering me this week- that he will provide opportunities for the transformation to take place, but it is up to me to obey him in the small things. <b>Deep commitment requires obedience when it's uncomfortable, when I don't "feel like" reaching out to someone, or even when that decision will go completely unnoticed.</b> I know exactly what God is talking about. It's the times where I feel led to pray for someone I don't know and ignore it, when I feel led to write a letter of encouragement and forget, when I avoid someone I don't have the energy to speak with... the list goes on. These decisions can seem very small and insignificant at the time, but truthfully, they impact the body and my own relationship with God from truly flourishing. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Not to live religiously, but God sees my heart. He is calling me to go deeper. <b>If I truly want to be used by Him in extravagant ways, I need to start loving people in extravagant ways, especially those within the body of Christ. </b></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I have been praying for God to renew my mind to become more ministry-minded and Kingdom-focused. I want to see communities transformed for Christ. I think the renewal of my mind will take place when I take my eyes off myself and focus them solely on Jesus, pouring the love that He gives me onto people. <b>The heart change happens when I repent of selfish thinking and actions and make decisions to love people out of obedience to God.</b></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><i>Lord, I desire this change more than anything. I ask for your grace to help me walk in obedience to everything you ask me to, loving people the way you've called me to love. Thank you for working in my heart with gentleness and truth.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>We had our first evangelism outing this week. Every Thursday, YWAM Perth has base-wide evangelism in various locations around the city. This week, we went to Scarborough Beach, about 200 YWAMers. We did public worship in a park, then went off in pairs to pray and make conversations with people. I went with a staff leader named Jenny to pray for the community and we eventually came across this group of teenagers at a bus stop, the young girls publicly intoxicated, yelling and making a big scene. We walked over with a few other YWAMers and stood in the midst of it all. After about 10 minutes, we started talking with three of the sober kids, one guy and two girls, and eventually shared with them why we were in Australia to learn more about God. These kids were so open, asking questions and wanting prayer. The girl I was speaking with said she didn't know much about Jesus and did not hesitate to say yes to hear the gospel. Amazing what God can do! Oftentimes we judge that a group will not be receptive to God, but it is not up to us to judge, only to act in obedience to the Holy Spirit. I know these three were touched that night by something real- the power of God's love calling them to relationship with Him. I pray that they made a response in their heart that will change their lives.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I love the students on my SOE. We have really bonded this week in class and outside of class. I am becoming friends with each person and enjoy all the time we spend together. Unity should be our highest goal and I feel we have gotten off to a great start, loving and supporting one another.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Thank you for your consistent prayers. Please feel free to contact me anytime- I would love to hear from you! E-mail, facebook, mail, blog comments... I long to stay connected with friends and family. </div><div><br /></div><div>Blessings :)</div><div>Stephanie</div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-74155663453727744362010-10-02T17:02:00.000-07:002010-10-03T04:44:29.907-07:00I'm At Home<i>"I'm at home when you're with me. When I'm with you, worries fade away..."</i><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I am back in Australia and feel completely at home. A wave of peace came over me as the plane landed, like I was spiritually connected to the ground. There is nothing like experiencing the center of God's will. I know I am right where God wants me and it's an amazing feeling. </div><div><br /></div><div>I spent last week in the Gold Coast, visiting the base before flying off to Perth. I worked at the base this week, helping them out with anything they needed. Just getting a feel for what staffing will be like and getting things prepared for when I come back after the SOE. I can't even describe to you the joy I felt being back at YWAM Gold Coast. I feel completely part of a family there- peace, joy, security, belonging. I know this base is home, and I am so glad I was able to stop by and be reminded of what God spoke to me about coming back to staff.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also spent the week in prayer that God would prepare my heart for the School of Evangelism. More than anything right now, I want to remain close to God, hearing his guidance and direction and allow him to work in my heart in whatever way will conform me into the servant he has called me to be. I want to receive each and every thing He intended for me to take from this school. I want to be better equipped to be God's hand to reach the lost, loving them in <i>extravagant</i> ways.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am also praying for finances to come in. <b>The due date for the lecture phase is this Friday and I am still about $1,200 short.</b> The school leader told me I can get an extension, but the sooner the better. <b>Please pray with me for the funds to come in at the right time.</b> </div><div><br /></div><div>So yesterday (Saturday) afternoon, I arrived in Perth to do my SOE. This base is much different than YWAM Gold Coast... it is huge! I feel like I am at a college campus. I am staying in a dorm with 30 girls. The building (called the "228") is really nice... it has a nice layout with a living area in the middle, big kitchen and dining table in the back, and two big rooms on either side where all the beds are set up. The bedrooms have a living area and walls that divide the room up a bit. I am on a top bunk and am settling in to my space.</div><div><br /></div><div>Being YWAM, it is very multicultural in my dorm and around the base with people from all over the world. I met a few of the other students in my school... Moira from Holland, Kersti and Amy from the US (staff), Miles, Moriah and Kyle from the US, and Danny our school leader from Australia, who is amazing and made us all feel very welcome. There are a lot of Americans on my school I am realizing. I am excited to meet all the other students!</div><div><br /></div><div>Right now, it is Sunday morning and I am sitting at the dining room table with 4 other girls eating breakfast and talking about our experiences with YWAM. This evening, Danny is having the SOE students over to his house for a barbecue so we can all meet each other, which I am excited about. Our school starts tomorrow and will probably consist of an orientation to the schedule and course material. I am looking forward to getting started and getting into a routine.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, that is all for now! I will let you know how classes go this week.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you all for praying. It is your prayers that have gotten me here and I am incredibly grateful.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bless you all,</div><div>Stephanie</div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-37063449328963137122010-09-19T10:01:00.000-07:002010-09-19T10:24:54.098-07:00Fundraising Praise ReportThank you so much to all who came, supported, and prayed for the Pancake Breakfast fundraiser I had after church today. I am so blown away by God... <b>I raised almost $1,000.00</b><b>!</b> <div><br /></div><div>I have now approached the <b>$2,500.00 mark</b> since I've been home. My plane ticket and visa are paid for, but I am still in need of my course fees and outreach fees- <b>about $8,500.00 to go</b> within the next few months. I have about $415/month coming in from committed monthly supporters out of a goal of $550/month when I begin to staff. Almost there! I am feeling very encouraged by the way God has been providing for me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I leave on Thursday for Australia to start the School of Evangelism. I am VERY excited to begin this adventure with God and am ready to take in all that God has prepared for me during this six month commitment. <b>Please pray</b> for the renewing of my mind as I take this time to be immersed in the Word, that God will continue to conform and refine me into the woman He has called me to be. I am hoping to find purpose and direction as I seek God with an open heart to find my place in ministry on the mission field. Please also pray for finances to steadily come in at the right time. I have been trying to sell my car and hope to get it sold by the end of the year (If you know anyone who would like to buy a Toyota Highlander, please send me an e-mail! :) </div><div><br /></div><div>Just wanted to give you all a quick update on my finances and say a huge THANK YOU to Orlando Community Church and all those who have been lifting me up in prayer. I feel incredibly blessed to be surrounded by such a generous, loving, and supportive community in Christ. I love you all and will continue to send updates regarding my needs and prayer requests.</div><div><br /></div><div>Love and blessings,</div><div><br /></div><div>Stephanie</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-12709247218861634592010-09-18T20:10:00.000-07:002010-09-18T20:54:06.208-07:00Financial Need Update<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; font-family:Times;font-size:medium;"><p class="paragraph_style_2" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0pt; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Hello again! I am very happy to be back blogging. I sent many support letters out to friends, family, and OCC church members, but for those of you who are interested in partnering with me in my commitment with YWAM and did not receive a letter, I thought I would post my update/financial need on my blog:</span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_2" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0pt; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_2" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0pt; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">As many of you know, </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I recently returned from a six month commitment with Youth With a Mission, or YWAM, based in Gold Coast, Australia</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. I attended a Discipleship Training School (DTS) where I took biblical courses for 12 weeks, then went with a team to the villages of Papua New Guinea for 7 weeks doing various types of ministry in different areas of the country.<br /></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_2" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_2" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This experience was truly life-changing for me. God did amazing things in my life and in the lives of others. I had the honor and privilege with my team to see hundreds of people come to the Lord, receiving salvation and healing. Early on in my commitment with YWAM, I felt God calling me back to Australia for more training in evangelism, stirring dreams, desires, and a newfound passion to reach the lost.<br /></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_1" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Responding to that call, I will be attending a YWAM School of Evangelism (SOE) in Perth, Australia for six months, beginning in October 2010.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Similar to the DTS, I will attend courses for 12 weeks, then go with a team to Mexico City for 8 weeks to do evangelism focused ministry.<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">After the SOE, I will return to the Gold Coast base where I will take on a staff position on the Evangelism Team, helping to grow the ministries of YWAM Gold Coast and start new ones as God directs.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="style_1" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I am making a two year staff commitment.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_2" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I am excited to share with you this amazing opportunity that God has presented me with and to let you know how you can support me in this next phase with YWAM. </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I would like to ask for your prayers as I begin a new journey, following God’s heart for missions.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> I would also like to ask if you would </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">pray about financially supporting me </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">with whatever God puts on your heart to give</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> (no amount is too small!)<br /></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_1" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The cost of the School of Evangelism is about $11,000</span></span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(all inclusive of course fees, airfare, food and housing, insurance, etc.).</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="style_1" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I will need a monthly support of $550</span></span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">over the next two year time period that I staff at the Gold Coast, which includes all my daily living expenses.<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you feel led to give, please make your check payable to:<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Orlando Community Church<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Write “Stephanie-YWAM” on the memo line<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Mailing address:<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Orlando Community Church<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1067 Rainer Drive, Suite 1003<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Altamonte Springs, FL 32714<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Donations are tax-deductible through Orlando Community Church.<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Please visit the “Become A Partner” tab on my website for the PayPal link to donate online! (not tax deductible)<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">www.stephanieungaro.com</span></span></p><p class="paragraph_style_3" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thank you for your prayerful consideration of supporting me in my mission. I am incredibly grateful for your spiritual and financial support!<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Blessings,<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="Body" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; padding-bottom: 0pt; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; "><span class="style_2" style="line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Stephanie</span></span></span></p></span>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-3754646822422951242010-05-16T14:47:00.000-07:002010-05-16T21:36:24.894-07:00Lecture Phase ReflectionG'day!<div><br /></div><div>This week was (sadly) the last week of lectures. Saturday marked the last day of the "lecture phase" part of DTS. We had three days of teaching on Missions and two days of teaching on Destiny. The Missions lecture was very good... we learned about different areas of ministry, people groups, global issues, and our place as Christ's ambassadors "bridging the gap" between the world and God. The speaker was completely inspiring and stirred us up to represent Christ in PNG and wherever else God calls us to go. Kerstin spoke on Destiny for the rest of the week (discovering our plan and purpose in Christ). We spent time writing out our dreams and passions in life. She explained that God places certain passions in our hearts, which can act as a roadmap for finding direction in life. It was amazing to reflect on my God-given passions and see how they all flow together for what I am designed to do. I do not know exactly what my life will look like, but I have purpose and direction found in Jesus that will certainly glorify God if I keep my eyes fixed on Him. </div><div><br /></div><div>The first three months of my DTS (the lecture phase) has been more amazing than I could have ever imagined. I came to the Gold Coast unsure of what I was getting myself into... I did not know much about YWAM and did not know anyone that would be here. I just knew that God called me here and I came in response to that stirring in my heart for missions. Since I've been here, God has poured out blessing after blessing upon me (too many to count) and has spoken to me in so many different ways, refining my heart and giving me a vision for my future. I have grown so much in my relationship with the Lord by dedicating this time to learn more about Him, immersing myself in the Word, and telling others about the love of Jesus. I could not have asked for a better experience! I feel like God surprised me with it all.</div><div><br /></div><div>My heart for evangelism has grown so much since I've been here. I am passionate about telling others about Jesus. I have loved all the evangelism opportunities we have had... I have been able to explore different areas of ministry, sharing the Gospel and encouraging other believers. God has been breaking my heart for the lost and I believe He wants me to pursue more training in evangelism, which is something I am praying about.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, we are just 5 days away from leaving for Papua New Guinea. This week is Outreach Prep week... packing, shopping for last minute items, practicing our dramas, preparing sermons, etc. I think it will be a pretty busy week! Please continue to pray for finances for 3 of my team members (Alex, Taelor, and Daniel). We are still quite a bit short.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am praying for the youth group... I know they leave this week to go to Guatemala. It sounds like a really exciting trip! God will do amazing things during their time there :) I look forward to hearing their stories.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for your continued prayers! Love you all.</div><div><br /></div><div>Stephanie</div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-39329251320538765232010-05-12T01:47:00.000-07:002010-05-12T01:54:54.015-07:00My DTS VideoCheck out my DTS testimonial on the YWAM Gold Coast website!<div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.ywamgc.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=13&Itemid=7">http://www.ywamgc.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=13&Itemid=7</a></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm the first video on the right hand side :)<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-14671979353044080882010-05-08T01:14:00.000-07:002010-05-11T01:18:36.825-07:002 Weeks Until Outreach!We are officially 2 weeks away from leaving for Papua New Guinea! <div><br /></div><div>To my church family at Orlando Community Church: Thank you so much for your continued financial support. Quite a bit of money was raised at the Pancake Breakfast... I am so thankful to you all. It is amazing to see God's provision through my OCC family. Thank you also for your e-mails and keeping in touch with me... I miss everyone so much.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>I am creating an e-mail list for my outreach team to send updates once we are in PNG. Please e-mail me your e-mail address so I can add you to the list to receive updates! My e-mail is stephanieungaro@hotmail.com.</b></div><div><br /></div><div>These past few weeks of lectures have been amazing. We had a week on Spiritual Warfare two weeks back, and this past week our topic was Covenants. I have been meditating a lot on my position with Christ. During spiritual warfare week, we learned all about the authority we have in Christ Jesus against the enemy. This week, we learned about our covenant relationship with God through the blood of Jesus. We studied the covenants in the Old Testament (Adam, Noah, Abraham, Israel (Sanai), David) and saw the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus- the New Covenant. This was an incredible topic... I have such a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness and the fact that I am secure in this new covenant with Him. God is so amazing!</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a few prayer requests this week as we prepare for outreach:</div><div><ul><li>Taelor and Alex are still in need of funds. The money is due this Friday. We are confident that God will provide, but would appreciate the support of your prayers.</li><li>Pray for team unity throughout our time in PNG.</li><li>Spirit led planning as we prepare sermons and make last minute arrangements.</li><li>That God will prepare hearts of the people we will encounter.</li><li>Please pray for our health: Sickness from mosquitos and stomach sickness from food and water is common in PNG, especially in remote villages. </li><li>Pray for our safety and protection. </li></ul><div>My outreach team: Daniel and Carly (outreach leaders); Taelor, Alex, Paivi, and me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am so excited about outreach. I feel confident and ready to minister to the people of PNG. God has been stirring my heart ever since we found our outreach location... I just can't wait to see God move in this nation!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I will update you before we leave. To receive updates once we are in PNG, please remember to send me your e-mail address :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Lots of love,</div><div>Stephanie</div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-46114969145958971662010-04-12T18:57:00.000-07:002010-04-12T20:00:04.431-07:00It's ALL about Him!The week of 03/29/10-04/04/10 was "Fear of the Lord" week.<div><br /></div><div>This week was by far the most amazing, freeing, and challenging week of my DTS. Our speaker, Mark Parker, is an extremely passionate (and loud!) man of God. We went through an abundance of notes and scripture during the week, which all led up to a day of ministry on Saturday. We spent all day Saturday (9am-9pm) worshipping God, surrendering all aspects of our life to Him, repenting of our sins, declaring God's character and truth, and just experiencing the power and freedom of God's presence. I will never forget this day... God spoke many things to me and I felt the Holy Spirit like never before. It was incredible! God is so good.</div><div><br /></div><div>Amazing revelations from the lectures this week:</div><div><ul><li>It's ALL about Him. He must become greater and greater and I must become less and less (John 3:30).</li><li>Love and fear MUST be in balance. It's not just knowing the Lord, it's knowing His will and obeying it (Matt 7:21). </li><li>Fear of the Lord is: (1) Awe of God: He is God, you are not, Respecting God; (2) Holiness: Being set apart- love what He loves, hate what He hates; (3) Continual awareness of the presence of God; (4) Wisdom (Prov 2:5)</li><li>The opposite of fearing the Lord is fear of <i>man</i>. Prov 29:5- Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.</li><li>Characteristics of "fear of man": 1) Self doubt; 2) Focuses on "safe option", takes no risks for fear of failure; 3) Blocks affirmation; 4) Justifies a lack of personal responsibility; 5) Develops out of discouragement; 6) Defensive and unteachable(Prov 1:7 and Prov 18:1-2; 7) Keeps you locked in the past and under its control; 8) Causes you to compare yourself with others and pass judgement; 9) Resists connecting relationally; 10) Has to control or be controlled; 11) Compromises.</li><li>We have ALL of the Holy Spirit, but does the Holy Spirit have all of you? Is the veil really torn in your life?</li><li>The Word of God cuts through and exposes all. You must decide if you want to be "cut through"- vulnerable with God. This is true sanctification. The power of God is released through our vulnerability.</li></ul><div>The most significant thing I learned this week was about true humility before the Lord. I laid down the things that I was still holding onto at the foot of the cross and experienced the freedom of God's presence. The Holy Spirit convicted me that fear of man and fear of failure often hinder me from fully obeying God's voice: Am I seeking the approval of man or of God? This is a challenging revelation, but one that will allow me to live in the fullness of God's will. I have found that there is such power in bringing out sin into the light- once it is out, it gives God a chance to heal and restore, bringing us closer to Him. This is something I will practice throughout my life.</div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-40593329022592764182010-04-03T18:55:00.000-07:002010-04-12T18:56:22.253-07:00Happy Easter!<div><div><div>The following week (03/22- 03/28) was Holy Spirit week.</div><div><br /></div><div>We spent a lot of time in intercession this week for Papua New Guinea. The Spirit is stirring in us His heart for PNG. I felt God continually reminding us to keep His perfect love as the highest goal of our outreach. Please join with me in prayer for a new revelation of God's love for the people in PNG. It says in 1 Corinthians 13 that love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. Even if we do "good" things on our outreach, if we do not have love, it is all for nothing. Please pray for unity in our 2 teams- that the enemy will not gain a foothold. Also pray for the direction of the Holy Spirit- we want God's will to be done, not ours (I think there are a few more details they are waiting on God to confirm). I am getting so, so excited to share Jesus with the people in PNG!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>In learning about the Holy Spirit this week, God continues to pour in new revelations:</div><div><ul><li>All fruit flows from intimacy with the Father.</li><li>We were never meant to live for ourselves. We were created to live in intimacy with the Father, living in his will.</li><li>John 20:21-22: "In the same way the Father sent me, so I am sending you. Receive the Holy Spirit." It's nothing we can do, it's all the Holy Spirit. We need only to believe and have faith to see the supernatural power of God.</li><li>Faith is absolute confidence in God. It can only come from intimacy with Him.</li><li>"These signs shall follow those who believe." This is for <i>every believer</i>- not the "gifted."</li><li>Mark 11:24: "I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you've received it, it will be yours."</li><li>Always seek the giver more than the gifts.</li></ul><div><br /></div></div></div></div><div>Aside from lectures, our DTS has been spending good, quality time together. One of our favorite things to do on our time off is to play games. We play a lot of card games :) As we become more intimate with God, the closer we as a group are becoming, as well. These friendships will certainly last throughout my life. God is so amazing! I am so thankful for each and every person here.</div><div><br /></div><div>I heard a few days ago the news about Chris McMahan. Though my heart was grieved, God comforted me and reassured me that she has been lifted up into the light of His presence. I saw her dancing, praising God in His courts, fully restored. She was such a light here on earth, always thankful and blessing everyone around her.</div><div><br /></div><div>Blessings to you all back at home! Love you all so much. Have a WONDERFUL Easter this Sunday!</div><div><br /></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7389379626821850133.post-78260003268540666692010-03-27T14:14:00.000-07:002010-04-12T18:55:16.103-07:00Step By StepWeeks of 03/15- 03/28:<div><br /></div><div>This week, our topic was Evangelism. Sounds a little scary, but it was not at all :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Our speaker was Allan Kirchen, a pastor at a church in Brisbane. He was HILARIOUS. He had a wonderful sense of humor and had us smiling and laughing the whole time. He had a way of making us feel relaxed and comfortable. He was also very experienced in evangelism and had a lot of wisdom to share with us. He explained that our <i>only</i> responsibility in evangelism is to be obedient. The Holy Spirit does the rest! That definitely takes the pressure off. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are some truths that spoke out to me:</div><div><ul><li>Matthew 4:19 : Come, <b>follow me</b>, and <b>I will make you fishers of men</b>."<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The foundation is to love God and follow him- He will teach us how to evangelize (become "fishers of men")</li><li>Effective evangelism- Being used by God through word or deed to influence a person to take <i>one step closer</i> to Jesus. - It does not matter the size of the step! It is all effective. We often fail to see the significance of the seemingly insignificant. Sometimes people just need you to listen and understand there they are coming from.</li><li>When we talk about Jesus, the Church, Christianity, God, etc. people automatically have a picture in their head of how they define those things. Some people have such distorted perceptions of God (from whatever their past experience has been). We need to meet them where they're at and love and accept them as Christ does. Challenge their "image" with the truth. It is good to ask them how they perceive Jesus and Christians before assuming you are picturing the same thing.</li></ul><ul><li>John 4 (The Samaritan Woman): Illustration of evangelism. </li><li>Jesus was <i>deliberate</i>. He actually did not have to go to Samaria, geographically speaking. He went in obedience to the Father. We need to deliberately choose to obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. "Lord, I am available when you're ready."</li><li>Jesus came in <i>humility</i>. He spoke with a woman; She was a Samaritan (culturally, Jews were repulsed by Samaritans); He put himself on her same level; Jesus<i> initiated</i> the conversation and relationship; Jesus avoided arguments- He never told her what to believe. He respected her. (Arguments are pointless. You may win an argument but you lose the person. Always keep the person first in love).</li><li>He led her on a journey of <i>discovery </i>(Her perception went from "Jewish man", to "Sir", to "prophet", to "<i>Messiah</i>"). </li><li>Jesus did not judge her- He knew about her sin, but did not judge her. We often prejudge people- We think a person may not be open to hearing about Jesus or being prayed for, etc., but it is up to God to move in them and change their heart.</li></ul><div><ul><li>It is the kindness of God that leads people in relationship with Christ.</li><li>Be careful as you mature in God that you don't lose your complete dependency on God. Jesus humbled the disciples by telling them to have the faith of a child.</li><li>Salvation is not based on intellect or emotion. It is a heart change based on <i>faith</i>.</li><li>Intelligence will never bring about heart revelation. Emotion is the same way- we can stir up emotions, but without an encounter with God, emotions will fade. Christ is the only one who can penetrate hearts. Only God can bring about heart revelation. </li><li>Salvation is of the <i>heart</i>, not of flesh and blood. Only God saves. </li></ul><div><ul><li>"Traditional" church model: Behave ~ Believe ~ Belong (If you behave the way we behave and believe what we believe, then you can belong as part of our church.)</li><li>Christ's model of the Church: Belong ~ Believe ~ Behave (It is our responsibility as Christians to create a place of belonging. Once they continue to come, they hear the Word of God, challenging beliefs and changing the heart, which by the Holy Spirit will change that person's behavior.</li><li>Our <i>only</i> responsibility is to love on people and accept them as they are. It is the job of the Holy Spirit to work on behavior and the word of God to change beliefs.</li></ul><br /></div><div>I went to Set Free Care (the homeless ministry) on Tuesday and had some good conversations led by the Spirit. I was able to pray with one man about finding a job, which was encouraging for him. On Saturday afternoon, we did local outreach in a park by the beach at Surfer's Paradise. We gave out free coffee and tea, sharing the love of Jesus with people walking by. I had one deep conversation with a man who wanted to hear the Gospel message of Jesus and we gave him one of our Bibles, which was exciting! It is so amazing to witness the Holy Spirit at work.</div></div></div><div><br /></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15830249911235543950noreply@blogger.com0