Sept-Oct-02

"LET THERE BE LIGHT" Ministries

September - October, 2002

"There are many precious truths contained in the Word of God, but it is `PRESENT TRUTH' that the flock needs now." Early Writings, p 63.

Elder: robert sessler

THE PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH

Education in health principles was never more needed than now. Notwithstanding the wonderful progress in so many lines relating to the comforts and conveniences of life, even to sanitary matters and to the treatment of disease, the decline in physical vigor and power of endurance is alarming. It demands the attention of all who have at heart the well-being of their fellow men.

Our artificial civilization is encouraging evils destructive of sound principles. Most are only concerned with their outward appearance instead of being concerned about the internal health of their body. Custom and fashion are at war with nature. The practices they enjoin, and the indulgences they foster, are steadily lessening both physical and mental strength, and bringing upon the race an intolerable burden. Intemperance and crime, disease and wretchedness, are everywhere. Many transgress the laws of health through ignorance, and they need instruction. But there are multitudes who know better. They need to be impressed with the importance of making their knowledge a guide of life. They need to have imparted to them a knowledge of the principles of health, and then shown the importance of putting them in practice. By this instruction many evils can be corrected and much harm can be avoided.

It is estimated that seven out of every ten diseases are life-style related. Everything we do, or choose not to do, will either bring us health or disease. And what makes it worse, is that when we do get sick, many will not take the trouble to search out the cause of their illness. Their chief anxiety is to rid themselves of the pain and inconvenience. So they go to the doctor for some pill to counteract the result of their misdoing, with little or no thought of making a change in their unhealthful habits. If immediate benefit is not realized, another medicine is tried, and then another.

The only hope of better things is educating the people to right health principles. People need to be taught that restorative power is in nature. In the vast majority of cases, disease is an effort of nature to free the system from conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to re-establish right conditions in the system.

There are 8 principles to good health. These simple healing principles of nature are found in pure air, sunlight, temperance, rest, exercise, proper nutrition, the use of water, trust in divine power--these are the true remedies. Every person should have a knowledge of nature's remedial agencies and how to apply them. It is essential both to understand the principles involved in the treatment of the sick and to have a practical training that will enable one rightly to use this knowledge.

The use of natural remedies requires an amount of care and effort that many are not willing to give. Nature's process of healing and upbuilding is gradual, and to the impatient it seems slow. The surrender of hurtful indulgences requires sacrifice. But in the end it will be found that nature, untrammeled, does her work wisely and well. Those who persevere in obedience to her laws will reap the reward in health of body and mind.

Too little attention is generally given to the preservation of health. It is far better to prevent disease than to know how to treat it when contracted. It is the duty of every person, for his own sake, and for the sake of humanity, to inform himself in regard to the laws of life and conscientiously to obey them. All need to become acquainted with that most wonderful of all organisms, the human body. They should understand the functions of the various organs and the sympathetic dependence of one upon another for the healthy action of all. They should study the influence of the mind upon the body, and of the body upon the mind, and the laws by which they are governed.

We cannot be too often reminded that health does not depend on chance. It is a result of obedience to law. This is recognized by the contestants in athletic games and trials of strength. These men make the most careful preparation. They submit to thorough training and strict discipline. Every physical habit is carefully regulated. They know that neglect, excess, or carelessness, which weakens or cripples any organ or function of the body, would ensure defeat.

How much more important is such carefulness to ensure success in the conflict of life. It is not mimic battles in which we are engaged. We are waging a warfare upon which hang eternal results. We have unseen enemies to meet. Evil angels are striving for the dominion of every human being. Whatever injures health, not only lessens physical vigor, but tends to weaken the mental and moral powers. Indulgence in any unhealthful practice makes it more difficult for one to discriminate between right and wrong, and hence more difficult to resist evil. It increases the danger of failure and defeat.

Let it be made plain that the way of God's commandments is the way of life. God has established the laws of nature, but His laws are not arbitrary exactions. Every "Thou shalt not," whether in physical or in moral law, implies a promise. If we obey it, blessing will attend our steps. God never forces us to do right, but He seeks to save us from the evil and lead us to the good.

Let attention be called to the laws that were taught to Israel. God gave them definite instruction in regard to their habits of life. He made known to them the laws relating to both physical and spiritual well-being; and on condition of obedience He assured them, "The Lord will take away from thee all sickness" Deuteronomy 7:15. "Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day." "For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh." Deuteronomy 32:46; Proverbs 4:22.

God desires us to reach the standard of perfection made possible for us by the gift of Christ. He calls upon us to make our choice on the right side, to connect with heavenly agencies, to adopt principles that will restore in us the divine image. In His written word and in the great book of nature He has revealed the principles of life. It is our work to obtain a knowledge of these principles, and by obedience to them to co-operate with Him in restoring health to the body as well as to the soul.

The knowledge that man is to be a temple for God, a habitation for the revealing of His glory, should be the highest incentive to the care and development of our physical powers. Fearfully and wonderfully has the Creator wrought in the human frame, and He bids us make it our study, understand its needs, and act our part in preserving it from harm and defilement.

Our bodies are Christ's purchased possession, and we are not at liberty to do with them as we please. All who understand the laws of health should realize their obligation to obey these laws which God has established in their being. Obedience to the laws of health is to be made a matter of personal duty. We ourselves must suffer the results of violated law. We must individually answer to God for our habits and practices. Therefore the question with us is not, "What is the world's practice?" but, "How shall I treat the habitation that God has given me?"

The body is the only medium through which the mind is developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of souls directs his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers. His success here means the surrender to evil of the whole being.

The tendencies of our physical nature, unless under the dominion of a higher power, will surely work ruin and death. The body is to be brought into subjection and the higher powers of the being are to rule. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by divine grace, is to bear sway in our lives.

The requirements of God must be brought home to the conscience. Men and women must be awakened to the duty of self-mastery, the need of purity, freedom from every depraving appetite and defiling habit. They need to be impressed with the fact that all their powers of mind and body are the gift of God, and are to be preserved in the best possible condition for His service.

In that ancient ritual which was the gospel in symbol, no blemished offering could be brought to God's altar. The sacrifice that was to represent Christ must be spotless. The word of God points to this as an illustration of what His children are to be--"a living sacrifice," "holy and without blemish," "acceptable unto God." Romans 12:1; Ephesians 5:27.

Apart from divine power, no genuine reform can be effected. Human barriers against natural and cultivated tendencies are but as the sandbank against the torrent. Not until the life of Christ becomes a vitalizing power in our lives can we resist the temptations that assail us from within and from without.

Christ came to this world and lived the law of God, that man might have perfect mastery over the natural inclinations which corrupt the soul. As the Physician of soul and body, He gives victory over warring lusts. He has provided every facility, that man may possess completeness of character.

When one surrenders to Christ, the mind is brought under the control of the law; but it is the royal law, which proclaims liberty to every captive. By becoming one with Christ, man is made free. Subjection to the will of Christ means restoration to perfect manhood and womanhood.

Obedience to God is liberty from the thralldom of sin, deliverance from human passion and impulse. Human beings may stand conquerors over themselves, conquerors of their inclinations, conquerors of principalities and powers, and of "the rulers of the darkness of this world," and of "spiritual wickedness in high places" Ephesians 6:12.

But what if we are already sick, or should get sick? One of the surest hindrances to the recovery of the sick is the centering of attention upon themselves. Many who have been sick for a while come to feel that everyone should give them sympathy and help, when what they need is to have their attention turned away from themselves, to think of and care for others.

Often prayer is solicited for the afflicted, the sorrowful, the discouraged; and this is right. We should pray that God will shed light into the darkened mind and comfort the sorrowful heart. But God answers prayer for those who place themselves in the channel of His blessings. While we offer prayer for these sorrowful ones, we should encourage them to try to help those more needy than themselves. The darkness will be dispelled from their own hearts as they try to help others. As we seek to comfort others with the comfort wherewith we are comforted, the blessing comes back to us.

The fifty-eight chapter of Isaiah is a prescription for maladies of the body and of the soul. If we desire health and the true joy of life we must put into practice the rules given in this scripture. Of the service acceptable to Him, and its blessings, the Lord says:

"Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not." Isaiah 58:7-11.

Good deeds are twice a blessing, benefiting both the giver and the receiver of the kindness. The consciousness of right-doing is one of the best medicines for diseased bodies and minds. When the mind is free and happy from a sense of duty well done and the satisfaction of giving happiness to others, the cheering, uplifting influence brings new life to the whole being.

Let those who are invalid, instead of constantly requiring sympathy, seek to impart it. Let the burden of your own weakness and sorrow and pain be cast upon the compassionate Saviour. Open your heart to His love, and let it flow out to others. Remember that all have trials hard to bear, temptations hard to resist, and you may do something to lighten these burdens. Express gratitude for the blessings you have; show appreciation of the attentions you receive. Keep the heart full of the precious promises of God, that you may bring forth from this treasure, words that will be a comfort and strength to others. This will surround you with an atmosphere that will be helpful and uplifting. Let it be your aim to bless those around you, and you will find ways of being helpful, both to the members of your own family and to others.

Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings--as much a duty as it is to pray. If we are heaven-bound, how can we go as a band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the way to our Father's house?

Those professed Christians who are constantly complaining, and who seem to think cheerfulness and happiness a sin, have not genuine religion. Those who take a mournful pleasure in all that is melancholy in the natural world, who choose to look upon dead leaves rather than to gather the beautiful living flowers, who see no beauty in grand mountain heights and in valleys clothed with living green, who close their senses to the joyful voice which speaks to them in nature, and which is sweet and musical to the listening ear--these are not in Christ. They are gathering to themselves gloom and darkness, when they might have brightness, even the Sun of Righteousness arising in their hearts with healing in His beams.

Often your mind may be clouded because of pain. Then do not try to think. You know that Jesus loves you. He understands your weakness. You may do His will by simply resting in His arms.

It is a law of nature that our thoughts and feelings are encouraged and strengthened as we give them utterance. While words express thoughts, it is also true that thoughts follow words. If we would give more expression to our faith, rejoice more in the blessings that we know we have,--the great mercy and love of God,--we should have more faith and greater joy. No tongue can express, no finite mind can conceive, the blessing that results from appreciating the goodness and love of God. Even on earth we may have joy as a wellspring, never failing, because fed by the streams that flow from the throne of God.

Then let us educate our hearts and lips to speak the praise of God for His matchless love. Let us educate our souls to be hopeful and to abide in the light shining from the cross of Calvary. Never should we forget that we are children of the heavenly King, sons and daughters of the Lord of hosts. It is our privilege to maintain a calm repose in God.

"Let the peace of God rule in your hearts...and be ye thankful" Colossians 3:15. Forgetting our own difficulties and troubles, let us praise God for an opportunity to live for the glory of His name. Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our hearts for these tokens of His loving care. When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night, let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven.

When someone asks how you are feeling, do not try to think of something mournful to tell in order to gain sympathy. Do not talk of your lack of faith and your sorrows and sufferings. The tempter delights to hear such words. When talking on gloomy subjects, you are glorifying him. We are not to dwell on the great power of Satan to overcome us. Often we give ourselves into his hands by talking of his power. Let us talk instead of the great power of God to bind up all our interests with His own. Tell of the matchless power of Christ, and speak of His glory. All heaven is interested in our salvation. The angels of God, thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand, are commissioned to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. They guard us against evil and press back the powers of darkness that are seeking our destruction. Have we not reason to be thankful every moment, thankful even when there are apparent difficulties in our pathway?

Let praise and thanksgiving be expressed in song. When tempted, instead of giving utterance to our feelings, let us by faith lift up a song of thanksgiving to God. Song is a weapon that we can always use against discouragement. As we thus open the heart to the sunlight of the Saviour's presence, we shall have health and His blessing.

"Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy." Psalms 107:1-2.

"Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord." Psalms 105:2-3.

"For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron...They cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!" Psalms 107:9-15.

As we mentioned in our last Newsletter we are involved in an important outreach project, which is now finished. This Ministry, in combination with another Ministry, have produced a movie showing the 10 major similarities between the Roman Catholic Church and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It is called "Roman SDA", and clearly reveals that the SDA church has been converted into an Image of this Beast. It can be viewed on our Web site at: http://www.LightMinistries.com/id608.htm. For those who have a computer, but who are not on line, we have this movie on CD and will send it to you for a small donation of $10. For those who are interested in obtaining a hard copy of all the information given in the movie, you can obtain it at: http://www.LightMinistries.com/id607.htm, or can write to this Ministry for a copy. This important project is already generating positive results. But, as can be expected, opposition is beginning to arise against it--especially from the church. We appreciate your prayers in this area as precious SDA souls are at stake in this late hour.

We have developed a new tract for the world. The topic is on Identifying God's True Church. We have enclosed a complimentary copy of this tract with this Newsletter. If you can use it in outreach distribution to your neighbors or community, please let us know, as these are available for a donation of $.08 each.

We have also been busy printing up thousands of other tracts and mailing these to our workers and contacts all over the world. We are also continuing to have our materials translated into various foreign languages so that the present truth can spread more rapidly into these dark areas to both SDAs as well as non-SDAs. We find that our Ministry work is about 50% geared towards awakening the world to the 3 angels' messages, and the other 50% towards awakening our SDA brethren. We ask you to pray with us that both these groups may be awakened to the glorious light of truth and may join with Jesus and His loud cry Movement before it is too late.

The Lord has also allowed this Ministry to reach another milestone in the publishing work. To the glory of God, we have crossed over the 12 million mark! That is right, to date 12,608,815 pages of present truth material have been published, and over 11 million of these "silent preachers" have already been distributed around the world! MAY OUR GOD BE PRAISED AND HIS KINGDOM ENLARGED FOR THIS WONDERFUL WORK HE HAS HONORED US TO BE A PART OF!

Our new Web site for the world on God's True Church is continuing to receive more visitors. Since this site was put on the Web on March 14, and so far through September 3, we have had 10,471 hits, which were generated by 1572 visitors. While most of these visitors were from America, we also have had visitors from Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, China, Canada, Croatia, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and United Kingdom. These visitors downloaded 142,320,000 bits of information. You can visit this site at http://www.TrueChurchofGod.info.

The Lord is also continuing to bless our www.LightMinistries.com Web Site! In the month of June we had 31,676 hits, which were generated by 5,379 visitors, who stayed an average of 15:56 minutes each. In these Visitor Sessions, 14,922 documents of Present Truth were viewed. While most of these visitors were from America, we also had visitors from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Dominican Republic, France, Mexico, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. All our visitors downloaded over 24,800 files, which totalled 1,319,367,000 bits of information!

In the month of July we had 27,692 hits, which were generated by 5,567 visitors, who stayed an average of 16:38 minutes each! In these Visitor Sessions, 13,443 documents of Present Truth were viewed. Again, while most of these were from America, there were also visitors from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Dominican Republic, France, Guatemala, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, Spain, and the United Kingdom! Over 22,300 files were downloaded from our Web Site, which totaled 939,861,000 bits of information!

In the month of August we had 38,399 hits, which were generated by 5,935 visitors, who stayed an average of 17:36 minutes each! In these Visitor Sessions, 15,754 documents of Present Truth were viewed. Again, while most of these were from America, there were also visitors from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Dominican Republic, France, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom! Over 25,600 files were downloaded from our Web Site, which totaled 1,202,835,000 bits of information! So the combined total for these past three months is that over 3.46 billion bits of information were downloaded from our Present Truth Web Site by over 16,800 visitors! GOD BE PRAISED!!

THE SCHOOL AT LIA, SWEDEN

Lia is a small community in the southern part of Sweden. It benefits by its closeness to the sea in that the winters are not as harsh as they are further inland and further north. It is situated in rolling countryside mostly covered with Norwegian Spruce, Oak and Pine. Over the years portions of this part of the country have been cleared for farming. Field crops and grazing animals, farms, forests, streams and small lakes are the major sights you see from the well maintained roads. Average July temperature is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit with about 4 hours of darkness each day. Even though the growing season is short, the extended hours of light produce quick growth. Average January temperature is 30 degrees Fahrenheit with about 4 hours of daylight each day.

You won't find Lia on most maps. It is about five miles North and East of Ullared. You may not find Ullared on most maps, either. It is about 25 miles East of Varburg. Since Varburg is on the coast it takes about 45 minutes to drive to the ocean from Lia.

Before 1914, Lia did not exist. It was then that the Swedes built a 120 bed military hospital at this country site. Other support buildings were also constructed. In 1965 it was converted to an extended care facility for the elderly. As the years went by, nearby land was parceled off and sold to staff members who built homes and lived in them. About 25 homes and the hospital grounds make up the community of Lia today. There is no store, no post office, no service station, no traffic light, nor stop sign. If you ride a car traveling up highway 154 and were to close your eyes at the right time you would never see it. Your eyes would not need to be closed for even 30 seconds. Since Lia is so far out in the country there are few people who live there and work in the city. Some of the homes are for seasonal use while most of the people that live there year round are retired.

About ten years ago the hospital facility was vacated. It was left empty for four years. A Swedish foundation with the name of "European Institute of Health and Education was created by a group of Seventh-day Adventists and this group subsequently purchased this property." Swedish foundation laws are ideal for this kind of activity.

The school has been functioning under the title "Lia International Missionary School" having 10 or 12 students when I visited this Spring. This school is based, as closely as possible, on the counsel of the Spirit of Prophecy. Madison is often cited as the example Lia is following.

Also, during this time they have conducted a health conditioning center with 3 or 4 patients. This facility can accommodate a much, much larger program than that as well as a much larger student body.

The foundation is controlled by a board of directors. Each board member serves for three years and then he can be re-elected for another term. For several reasons the number of board members had dwindled to four.

Recently there had become a difference of opinion between board members. One faction continued to believe that you must hang onto your membership in the SDA church and direct people to attend there. Another faction saw the need to separate and to not lead people into a corrupt denomination. Others were undecided.

When one of the board members came up for renewal and was not re-elected, the majority of the board now favored actions that supported the separation position. The administrator felt his work would no longer be effective under these conditions and he resigned. He not only resigned his position on the board but also his position as administrator. Two days later he informed the board that the entire staff had agreed with him and decided to resign also. Notice was given that the school year would be completed and they would vacate the premises by the end of July, 2002. This announcement came in the middle of May, 2002.

At first we were disappointed that this resignation occurred. But, as we thought about it, we now think that it was best. But, needless to say, we have a lot to do. Just trying to comprehend what has happened makes my head swim! We need staff, students, curriculum, and a budget for starters.

With the arrival in the middle of July of a new staff member, we thought the first, immediate problem was solved. He, however, has had a change of heart and left. The board is now seeking the Lord's leading in what to do next.

We already have requests for application forms for students and staff. We need to create those forms. We need to say on those forms that the direction for Lia has changed, that we now take the separation position. We want staff members that hold that position. We want prospective students to know we support the separation position.

I believe that the Lord has put Lia into our hands at this time for a reason. I also believe that we can all do something. Some will need to go to Sweden but others can help us right where they are. I also see this as bringing us closer together. Working on a common project brings brotherhood that is not accomplished in any other way.

If you are impressed to help us, or want to go to school there, PLEASE CONTACT ME.

With Christian love, Jim Snipes.

Surface mail: Jim Snipes, P.O. Box 901, Ukiah, CA 95482.

E-mail: snipes@sonic.net

"Let There Be Light" Ministries is devoted to the spreading of the full present truth gospel message worldwide, and has been doing so since 1986. This Ministry has operating expenses covering the areas of: printing, publishing, and writing of present truth books, booklets, tracts, and other literature; video and audio taping, production, and distribution; supporting several ministers/workers in foreign Countries; mail order--both domestic and foreign; traveling to hold meetings--both locally, nationally, and internationally; answering correspondence and questions regarding the message of truth; offering National and International Bible studies; sending free present truth literature to contacts in many poor Countries; etc.

The Lord's blessings and guidance, along with your gracious prayers and support, is greatly appreciated and needed. Without such, this Ministry could not continue to reach out worldwide with the precious message of Revelation 14:6-12 & 18:1-5.

May our God and Saviour continue to lead and guide all those who have helped this Ministry reach out to souls who sit in darkness with the precious light of gospel truth. May our supporters remember that they share in each and every soul who has been reached by this Ministry and converted to the Lord and His present truth!

GENERAL FOREIGN MISSION WORK NEEDS

We are currently supporting several workers in many different Countries on a monthly basis. We check into the economy of each area and supply a base support which is adequate depending on their situation, but not extravagant. This base support is to ensure that the monthly needs of each worker and family is adequately met for that month so that the worker may devote full time to the ministry work. In addition to this, we are sending extra materials for evangelism, and money for printing, publishing, holding meetings, traveling, and other necessary areas in spreading the Present Truth in their Country. And as the work extends, especially will the expenses for evangelism expand. Whatever you can send to help in this necessary and vital area is greatly appreciated.

The work of spreading God's present truth is not to be limited, but must extend world-wide, to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people before our Saviour can come (Matthew 24:14). What better way of spreading the present truth gospel than by having workers who speak the native language, who reside in that particular Country, who can live and preach the truth and visit the interests in their homes, and spread the printed truth translated into their common language!

"Our publications should be printed in other languages, that foreign nations may be reached. Much can be done through the medium of the press, but still more can be accomplished if the influence of the living preacher goes with our publications....The Lord has moved upon men of other tongues and has brought them under the influence of the truth, that they might be qualified to labor in His cause." Testimonies, vol 3, p 204-205.

Please financially help us to continue supporting our current ministers and workers on a consistent basis, so that the spreading of the truth will not be interrupted but can quickly lighten this dark world with the glory of God.

"Every opportunity should be improved to extend the truth to other nations. This will be attended with considerable expense, but expense should in no case hinder the performance of this work. Means are of value only as they are used to advance the interest of the kingdom of God. The Lord has lent men means for this very purpose, to use in sending the truth to their fellow men." Testimonies, vol 3, p 208.

SPECIFIC FOREIGN MISSION WORK NEEDS

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Fiji.

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts in Fiji--about $100 monthly.

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to India.

-- Second hand van--$2500

-- Printing our booklets in India--$1450 for 10,000 copies (less than $0.15 per booklet!)

-- Printing press to print materials there and save on time and money--$6000.

KENYA, East Africa:

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Kenya.

-- Printing our booklets in Kenya--$2000 for 10,000 copies ($0.20 per booklet).

-- Projector, screen, and evangelistic film for non-SDA outreach.

-- Several different herbs, plus shipping--for our medical missionary worker there--$250.

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Malaysia.

-- Purchasing of Chinese Bibles--$7. each.

PHILIPPINE Islands:

-- Several boxes of 1884 Great Controversy books for non-SDA outreach--$500.

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Philippines.

-- Printing tracts in the Philippines--$100.

UGANDA, East Africa:

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Uganda.

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts in Uganda--about $100 each month.

-- A good PA System for meetings--$600.

-- Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books to purchase and mail.

ZAMBIA, Central Africa:

-- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Zambia.

-- Portable generator for evangelistic meetings--$650.

-- Computer for translation work--$600.

Please be sure to mark all donated monies for any of the above Ministry or Foreign Mission needs. 100% of all donated monies will go where specified. Unspecified donations will go where needed. Thank you very much for making this evangelistic work possible, and may God's richest blessings attend you and yours.

LETTERS to "LET THERE BE LIGHT" Ministries

It has been a long time since I last communicated with you. Let me hope things are going well with your family and otherwise.

I would like to hear your opinion of Independent Ministries. (Editors note: Independent Ministries can be arranged into 4 different groups who are working apart from control of the GC: #1--those who advocate staying in the corrupt church until you are kicked out, and the church can never become Babylon. #2--Those who advocate going from one SDA church to another until you find one without apostasy, or being unsuccessful at this search, then start a home church, and the church is not Babylon. #3--Those who advocate a willing separation out of the entire corrupt church, but membership removal is not important, and there is a chance that church might become Babylon at some point in the future, but not now. #4--Those who advocate a willing separation out of the entire corrupt church system, that removing church membership is important due to corporate responsibility, and that the SDA church is Babylon fallen now because she has fulfilled the conditions needed to become Babylon. By far the greater portion of Independent Ministries are following positions #1 (such as Hartland and Hope International) & #2 (such as Steps to Life). The next in line are those of position #3, and the least amount are of position #4 (of which position we are). It is also important to note that the first 3 positions do not believe that the loud cry has begun, while those in position #4 do indeed believe that it has already begun and is sounding now; which, by the way, Ellen White completely agrees with! Thus our people need to be aware of the position of whom they are supporting so that they do not find themselves guilty of supporting the spreading of a message they do not believe in!)...

I think you are doing a great job. I think however, that you need to do more in North America. Hardly anyone knows about you here. (Editor's note: I am willing to hold meetings in any area the Lord opens up!)

May God continue to bless your work.

Yours in Christ, G.W., FL.

Hi, from us folks here in Nova Scotia....Bob, thank you for the last booklets that you sent. We are so happy to read this information....Bob, do you know of anyone, near us, that we could call or fellowship with? (Editor's note: Not at present, sorry, but may be one of our readers might know?)...

It is interesting that here in Nova Scotia all stores (grocery, Canadian Tires, building supplies, etc.) all are closed on Sunday. Everything is closed -- except one or two very very small corner stores and a small gas station. The government here has a law that all businesses that are over a certain square foot (the store) must be closed on Sunday....

We want to thank you so much for helping us to see the light. (Editor's note: You are welcome, and let us praise God because He deserves all the credit!) We have really gleaned from reading your booklets. Thank you very much. We pray for God to continue to use you and your ministry to share light into dark hearts and dark places.

Take care and God bless.

From B. & C.R., Canada.

Dear brother Sessler,

Thank you so much for the Newsletters and I am so encouraged to see the Gospel is being spread throughout the world. May the Lord bless you and all the workers involved in spreading the present truths messages.

We are continuing in our home church. The Lord has been blessing us. Please pray for our group that we will grow spiritually as well as (in) our size. God bless you.

Dear Bro Bob, & Church,

Greeting in Jesus precious name.

Thank you so much for the Newsletters. The Messages have been a real blessing to my Christian experience, the series on the Human Will, and the Storm is Coming: Are You Willing to Suffer? prompt me to consider if I'm holding on to any sins.

One of the main problem that I did not consider which the Newsletter helped me to realize, is that self is the biggest problem that keeps one from surrendering all to the Lord.

I've been praying daily that not as I will, but as Thou will be done. I need to be prepared to meet my Lord, I have been applying the 4 keys to successfully overcome - R.P.S.R. and it (has) been a great help. (Editor's note: Praise God!)

I praise God for working with your Ministry to reach people who are seeking for the pure truth as it is in Jesus. How do I know? I have tried the Spirit, and did not find any errors, compromise in your teaching through the word of God....Bro. Bob don't ever think to give up on this glorious work you are doing. I have really benefited from it....

May God richly bless your ministry always.

Enclosed is tithe to be used by your ministry.

I appreciate your excellent Newsletters and the main articles, or lead articles, in them, as well as the news related to the growing outreach to other countries around the world. It's inspiring to see how God is using Let There Be Light Ministries.

God bless all of you and the ministry. I pray for all of you each day. (Editor's note: we are keeping you in prayers as well!)

In Christ, E.S., OH.

CORRESPONDENCE FROM OUR FOREIGN WORKERS

FROM FIJI ISLANDS

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear Bro. Bob,

May I once again greet you in His wonderful name and may peace and love be with you from God the Father and also from our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Thank you very much for your prayers, kind thought, and deepest concerns shown me in time of grief on the passing of my mother and on behalf of the family. May I also thank you for the message of condolence.

Because the hospital in the Island do not have a mortuary, the dead must be buried on the next day. That is why I have to fly there urgently to attend my mothers funeral. I took with me a carton full of tracts, booklets, etc., ect., to distribute in the Island. I spent a week in the Island and one of my brothers joined me in the visitations and the distribution of the literatures. We explained and shared the truth with these people. Most of them accepted it including the SDA people....all the tracts (and) booklets in English and Fijian I took with me was not enough. Last week I have already sent another two cartons to my brother to distribute.

The third week was spent in distribution tracts, booklets, pamphlets, etc., etc., in ____, ____, ____ and also ____. Thousands of our literature were distributed in these places. The first week is always spent in vast ____, wherever we visit people and also distribute our literature and explained and share present truth with so many people. Last week I have to work on the printing of the Golden Calf Apostasy booklet (in Fijian)....(It) will be printed next week and we will forward you a copy of it. (Editors note: I received it, and it looks great!) Work on the True Church of God booklet is (in) progress well and will be completed soon....

Thank you very much for the information regarding the Hartlands Institutions. They are really working hard in Fiji, but the people are aware of them now. Some people went into their seminar (and) came away after just one session only. The people here can discern that truth now. Some of them came and told me they only went there for a day and they did not feel like going back.

I was really shocked about brothers Dan and Edward who have worked together with...me for the past one year now have decided to lead the Hartlands Mission in Fiji. I was really amazed because these two brothers knows the truth very well, but decided to compromised it. I am sure they were looking for something else besides the truth....oh how can we put our trust in man in this last day?

A Methodist man and his Catholic wife are being Bible studying (with me) now for three nights a week at their home. They are now spending their Sabbath at home. Please pray for them, (and for) another man of fifty years old is now being given Bible study at his house. He and his family are now keeping the Sabbath, preciously they were Methodist.

Two elderly brothers from the SDA church are receiving our literatures and are now giving it out in their churches. They both told me that they were stopped by their pastors but they said they will go on distributing our literature until they are kicked out....

May God bless you abundantly and everyone in the Ministry's. Please send me the latest booklets you have.

Your brother in Christ, B.A., Fiji.

Yes the web site message is Hindi version....Today I am leaving to ____ offset printers to get the typed copy of Karnataka language booklets....

Here the water scarcity is too much and pestilence is also affecting some areas. The government is feeding hungry souls with free food. In our area the water is sold for Rs 3 for ten liters. The signs of the second coming of the Christ is seen with our own eyes diligently. Thank God for the day of our Lord's returning is in soon reach.

The SDA church pastor, (the) one who visited ____, was immediately transferred. Our Bible workers are working in ____ and meeting all the false propagandas of SDA church. Now the SDA people are stopped coming to this town. My plan to do the work in India is the literatures must be distributed both (to) the SDA and non-SDA people. From this literature evangelism we can find the true souls, those who are standing after the truth. The trained workers of laymen can be sent to his new areas to established the churches.

We have started a Tamil magazine for the gospel outreach for non-SDA people. It is named as OLIVAMALAI...If you need any more clarification please let me know.

Brother D.S., India.

FROM KENYA, EAST AFRICA

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear Bob,

The effort which was at ____ as I told you, got finished well. May be the prayers which were offered, were answered. Praise and glory be to God and our Lord Jesus Christ. As we finished the effort, we went to ____ for baptism which was planned...But it was not done because of disagreement which arose within the ____ members. We stopped it until they be agreed. The Spirit says "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves" Philippians 2:3. "Do all things without murmurings and disputings" Philippians 2:14. "Only by pride cometh contention; but with the well advised is wisdom" Proverbs 13:10....

In our church ____ we have ordained two elders names ____ and ____...The work is increasing but we are running short of finance. We travel far distances, we have many calls to attend....

Medical Report: Pneumonia - 4 people; Fevers - 4; Sciatica - 3; Skin problems - 2; Headaches - 3. May God bless the work....

____ and ____ efforts are over. ____ took two weeks from July 1st to 14th, 2002. The response was not bad though they attend at night time. We experienced a cool weather which caused many people to suffer from malaria. Daytime we used to visit people at their homes and some at their working places - even at the market. ____ effort started on 20th July, (and) three deacons were ordained (at the home church there). Then we went to ____ for two weeks effort from 21st July to August 4th 2002. Mornings hours we did visit people at their homes, then afternoon hours we did preaching at market. People were much influenced because of the demonstration on herbal treatments. A new center was opened there....

Medical Report: Kidneys - 3 people; Blood pressure - 3; Lumbago 4; Itching - 5; Tumors - 3; Breast Tumors - 3; Dizziness - 3; Epilepsy - 3; Urinary disorders - 3; Sciatica - 3; Coughing - 3; Infertility - 3 women.

Right now we are in ____ camp meeting. Pray for us.

Yours in service, P.S., Kenya.

I have received both your e-mails dated 21st and 24th. I have only been (too) busy to respond faster (than today)....

In reference to the brother your asked (the worker for Banner of Truth Ministries), this is the situation: his local congregation censured him on a number of charges, for which he failed to appear...He has then strayed away with the sentiment that he can still work alone! It is so ugly, brother. Our attempt to reconcile him with his brethren has hit a snag as so much evil speaking and rumours have surrounded the whole atmosphere....

Do you remember that in 1998, you suggested that we try to see if we can have a phone line? I had made application of the same. Today I found their letter at the post office that they are now ready to consider the application. Don't you think it would be well to have it still? (Editor's note: yes!) I have not replied to them yet....

On Protestant History, we had also put it on plate, and soon we shall have the first copies of a 2000 order.

Thanks and God bless. Longing for a faster response.

Greetings from Malaysia. Thanks a lot for the Newsletter, the support and your prayer. I apologize for my late report. I had finished the input of 2 booklets "Transmutation of 3 Angels' Message" and the old edition of "Our Most Important Need Today" many weeks ago and now ready for the input of another booklet "Tithe"....hopefully this will be done towards the end of this month and the printed copies of both booklets will be mailed to you soon.

Meanwhile, I mailed out some booklets of "Everlasting Gospel" to my non-SDA friends, though just a few showed interests. But I do believe the seeds sown will ripen unto harvest in due time. Let's pray hard for these precious souls. "In this life our work for God often seems to be almost fruitless. Our efforts to do good may be earnest and persevering, yet we may not be permitted to witness their results. To us the effort may seem to be lost. But the Saviour assures us that our work is noted in heaven, and that the recompense cannot fail. Gal 6:9; Ps 126:6 quoted." (6T 305). Hope to hear from you soon.

May our precious Lord's peace and richest blessings be with you and your ministry.

Co-worker in Christ, V., Malaysia.

FROM THE PHILIPPINES

Warm Christian greetings to you and everyone there with you!

Everything is going well here....The brethren here have become more matured spiritually after all the conflicts we have been through. The medical missionary work in ____ through bro. ____'s efforts are going very well. The sick are being healed. Even doctors come to him for treatment now, and above all some souls have accepted the message through these efforts. The medical missionary work here with ____ is growing stronger than ever. People are getting wonderful results from the natural remedies and the program on their diet. (Editor's note: May God be praised!!)

The brethren in that church (formerly connected with the SDA Reform movement) are now rejoicing in their liberty. We visited them a couple more times. A former pastor of theirs, whom I met in ____ City, is now open to the message. Bro. ____...visited him together with some members of that church. His eyes were opened to the evils in their church system. He used to be very antagonistic toward us but now he show an altogether different attitude. Please keep them in your prayers too.

Thank you so much for the booklets and tracts you sent. These have been a great blessing to many. It is always very nice to be able to hand something out to people when visiting them. The work of printing here has slowed down, but we have lots of the booklets to hand out to people, so we are still doing fine in the area of getting literature to people....

May God bless you. I hope to hear from you again soon.

Isaiah 40:30, 31! B., Philippines.

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear Bro. Bob,

Thank you for your e-mail message and for the encouraging words. We're very glad and happy to hear from you....

Last Sabbath, we...went to the SDA church after our Sabbath service and we distribute our pamphlets to their members. After that we went home and after we took our lunch, bro ____ and with two brothers went to ____ where there is a big meeting of the SDA's and they again distributed the pamphlets there. We hope and pray that God will bless those efforts so that many souls will be awakened and will know what was really happening in the church...

Thank God that we were allowed to attend the last fellowship that was being held in ____ last Sabbath. We traveled 8 hours (on Friday) from ____ and then rode in a boat to reach the place of fellowship...

As of now we are here in ____...planning for the work of God. A lot of work is need to be done. We need to dispose those tracts and pamphlets that you've sent. We have distributed already a lot of those in ____, but there are still many here. We will distribute it here in ____ with the cooperation of our brethren here. And some of it we will bring it in ____ for there is a call of work there....But in the mean time we will plan a work here in this place through the guidance and help of the Lord....

Anyway, till here for now. Hope to hear from you soon. God bless us all.

Your brother and sister in Christ, B.F. & A.B., Philippines.

FROM UGANDA, EAST AFRICA

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear Elder Sessler,

I am happy to note down the mighty things that our heavenly (Father) has wrought through us. First and foremost the humble request to help the crippled family our Father honored our earnest prayers. I thank and praise His holy name, for He hears the prayers of His dear children. Oh! what a loving God we have. A tri-cycle costs 250,000 Uganda shillings which is equivalent to $150 (US), so far (the) $78 (you sent as a donation from a dear couple) has been met (yet) we remain with a balance of $72....On a sad note, brother ____, the son to the old woman ____, slept (died). We did all that was in our power to do to save the life of this brother, but the all wise Father let him sleep until the resurrection morning when all that are in the grave will hear the sound of His voice and wake from the dust of the earth....It was expensive on my side for I footed (the) medical bills and funeral service. He was buried on Wednesday 26th June, 2002.

We have done a massive tract evangelism in schools, hospital, markets and homes. We believe that the seeds will one time germinate unto eternal life....

I have so far received (good) news of how the booklets are labouring, where a living preacher could not work to convict the souls because of prejudice. In ____ in 2 different places people have come to realize that the S.D.A. church is Babylon because of (the) clear-cut information in the booklets, these souls are set to separate. In ____ the same reformation is taking place. (Editor's note: May our merciful God be praised!) Brothers have been taking booklets and we are looking forward for the out working of the Spirit upon those who will receive these messages. We have done massive tract evangelism (as well).

There is an F.M. Radio station in our place which may not charge a lot. The charge (is) around $100 (US) to run preaching programme for 15 minutes every early morning. If there is (a) way, funds would be advances, this will open new avenues to reach out with (the) saving message for this time. (Editor's note: will not one of our home churches commit themselves to fund this project each month?)

The authorities are getting more tough on unlawful assemblies, that is unregistered churches. We had talked over this issue with brothers. We came out with many opinions on how to go about with registration which has failed to work out to date. However, recently brother ____ came with more bright ideas of starting up a health unity or school. This will enable us easy access to register. Government is interested in N.G.O.s who help the community, to ease the burden it bears--in the field of Education and Health.

This brother sighted an abandoned leprosy centre, then had surveyed land of nearly 30 hectares. This can give us a starting point....He told me he wrote to brother ____, who seemed positive to the ideas brought forward....

Thank a lot for standing with us in the Lord's work.

Yours in Blessed Hope, K.I., Uganda.

FROM ZAMBIA, CENTRAL AFRICA

Elder Robert Sessler,

We humbly greet you in the dear name of Jesus Christ. Our families and the brethren around us are fine. We really appreciate for your prayers and support of God's works and our families at large. We would want to extend our appreciation for the 20 M-bags which we have received. These materials are on distributions. Our distributions are only very specific in the nearby places because we have limited transportation means as we us the public vehicles for our travellings.

Now we would like to report that these (materials are) preaching (well), and hence we have many calls around us and outside our Country. Elder Robert Sessler kindly help us by the grace of God to see these materials reach other provinces in Zambia by sending us enough money to enable us (to) get one of these good second hand small vehicles going at $1500 US. Please we plead to our supporters to help us....

So far so good, we have Elder ____ whom we have started sharing with (him) our incomes to work as a full-time gospel worker in ____....Elder we would want to thank (you) how you have been faithful in your supports...(Editors note: Please praise God for He it is who enables your support to continue!) Moreover, pay for brother ____ and his wife who will be travelling to ____ on ____ for MASSIVE distributions and answering the calls there....God bless you...

Your servants in field, W.M. & E.K., Zambia.