"LET THERE BE LIGHT" Ministries
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January - February, 2010

     "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
E-mail address:  lightmin@terragon.com


DRINKING FROM THE CUP OF SUFFERING

     Dear readers, it is my earnest prayer that you will pay careful attention to the following important admonition:
     "We have no time to lose. We know not how soon our probation may close. Eternity stretches before us. The curtain is about to be lifted. Christ is soon to come. The angels of God are seeking to attract us from ourselves and from earthly things. Let them not labor in vain.
     "When Jesus rises up in the most holy place, lays off His mediatorial robes, and clothes Himself with the garments of vengeance, the mandate will go forth: ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still:...and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be.' Revelation 22:11, 12.
     "A storm is coming, relentless in its fury. Are we prepared to meet it?
     "We need not say: The perils of the last days are soon to come upon us. Already they have come. We need now the sword of the Lord to cut to the very soul and marrow of fleshly lusts, appetites, and passions....
     "Our efforts, our self-denial, our perseverance, must be proportionate to the infinite value of the object of which we are in pursuit. Only by overcoming as Christ overcame shall we win the crown of life.
     "Man's great danger is in being self-deceived, indulging self-sufficiency, and thus separating from God, the source of his strength. Our natural tendencies, unless corrected by the Holy Spirit of God, have in them the seeds of moral death. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we cannot resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin.
     "In order to receive help from Christ, we must realize our need. We must have a true knowledge of ourselves. It is only he who knows himself to be a sinner that Christ can save. Only as we see our utter helplessness and renounce all self-trust, shall we lay hold on divine power.
     "It is not only at the beginning of the Christian life that this renunciation of self is to be made. At every advance step heavenward it is to be renewed. All our good works are dependent on a power outside of ourselves; therefore there needs to be a continual reaching out of the heart after God, a constant, earnest confession of sin and humbling of the soul before Him. Perils surround us; and we are safe only as we feel our weakness and cling with the grasp of faith to our mighty Deliverer." Testimonies, vol 8, p. 314-316.

     Whether this storm be of persecution, opposition, oppression, trial, temptation, or of Satan's wrath, we must be in earnest to prepare ourselves to meet and endure it. Let us also realize that if we should be overcome during any of these above storms, this does not mean we are lost forever – although that could very well happen. The timing of these storms is while Jesus is still interceding for us in the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary, and so we have the assurance that Jesus will help us in every time of need. Yet this glorious comforting truth does not shield us from experiencing these storms!
     "How often the disciples' experience is ours! When the tempests of temptation gather, and the fierce lightnings flash, and the waves sweep over us, we battle with the storm alone, forgetting that there is One who can help us. We trust to our own strength till our hope is lost, and we are ready to perish. Then we remember Jesus, and if we call upon Him to save us, we shall not cry in vain. Though He sorrowfully reproves our unbelief and self-confidence, He never fails to give us the help we need. Whether on the land or on the sea, if we have the Saviour in our hearts, there is no need of fear. Living faith in the Redeemer will smooth the sea of life, and will deliver us from danger in the way that He knows to be best." Desire of Ages, p 336.

     The reason why God allows these storms to hit us before probation closes is to show us the areas in our lives where self still has a presence. These areas of self shut Jesus away from us and therefore we have no Refuge or assurance of salvation. So God is not bringing His people through these trying times needlessly, but is allowing these storms of varying intensities to come to us for our eternal good. This is not to discourage or destroy us in the least degree, but to lovingly remove all detrimental traits from our character so that we may have these rough edges cut away, become smoothed and polished in order to shine as a precious gem for our Lord and King. Besides, it is only as we experience the dark and raging tempest that our appreciation of the sunshine can grow! It is only as we experience the storm that we see our utter helplessness and feel our need of help!
     All God's people will indeed experience these storms, and they will not be able to hide or escape from having to endure them!
     "Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." Acts 14:22.

     "...if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 1:6-7.

     "So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer..." 2 Thessalonians 1:4-5.

     "God sends trials to prove who will stand faithful under temptation. He brings all into trying positions to see if they will trust in a power out of and above themselves. Everyone has undiscovered traits of character that must come to light through trial. God allows those who are self-sufficient to be sorely tempted, that they may understand their helplessness." Testimonies, vol 7, p 211.

     So it is through much tribulation that we finally are able to gain the kingdom of God if we endure unto the end. God mercifully sends us these trials so we can discover what unChristlike traits of character we possess, and then flee to Christ for the strength to overcome.  And God will not permit any of His children to suffer through any trial needlessly or without a good purpose.
     "Trial is part of the education given in the school of Christ, to purify God's children from the dross of earthliness. It is because God is leading His children that trying experiences come to them. Trials and obstacles are His chosen methods of discipline, and His appointed conditions of success. He who reads the hearts of men knows their weaknesses better than they themselves can know them. He sees that some have qualifications which, if rightly directed, could be used in the advancement of His work. In His providence He brings these souls into different positions and varied circumstances, that they may discover the defects that are concealed from their own knowledge. He gives them opportunity to overcome these defects and to fit themselves for service. Often He permits the fires of affliction to burn, that they may be purified.
     "God's care for His heritage is unceasing. He suffers no affliction to come upon His children but such as is essential for their present and eternal good. He will purify His church, even as Christ purified the temple during His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon His people in test and trial comes that they may gain deeper piety and greater strength to carry forward the triumphs of the cross." Acts of the Apostles, p 524-525.

     "It may be that much work needs to be done in your character building, that you are a rough stone, which must be squared and polished before it can fill a place in God's temple. You need not be surprised if with hammer and chisel God cuts away the sharp corners of your character until you are prepared to fill the place He has for you. No human being can accomplish this work. Only by God can it be done. And be assured that He will not strike one useless blow. His every blow is struck in love, for your eternal happiness. He knows your infirmities and works to restore, not to destroy." Testimonies, vol 7, p 264.

     Thus we can expect varying intensities of storms to come to each one of us, and it is through the suffering we endure, that we can learn the lessons taught. In passing through these storms, we will be more prepared to endure the next storm, and the next, until we are fully prepared to meet our Lord when He comes again and together to enter into the kingdom of heaven. But if we do not prepare, then we will be nothing more than a play thing of the storm, to be tossed around wherever the winds blow, and finally to be wrecked on the rocks before we reach the heavenly harbor. Yet if we know and understand what God is lovingly attempting to do for each one of us, then how should we respond when these storms of affliction and suffering come?
     "FORASMUCH then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God....Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you...Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf." 1 Peter 4:1-2, 12-14, 16.

     "Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer...Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not." Romans 12:12, 14.

     "...I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation." 2 Corinthians 7:4.

     "...we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." Romans 5:3-5.

     "...to comfort you concerning your faith: That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know." 1 Thessalonians 3:2-3.

     So instead of trying to flee from these storms of suffering, or complain that they have come at such an inopportune time, we should patiently endure, be joyful and glory in them, knowing that God is lovingly working to purify our characters in preparing us for heaven.
     Remember, "all things work together for good to them that love God..." (Romans 8:28).  So instead of complaining we should instead give thanks to God!
     "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

     But the greatest danger against our readiness for, or enduring through, any of these approaching storms, as well as our greatest danger to losing salvation, is the destructive enemy of SELF. It is self that leads you to become impatient, or to be unhappy and miserable, or to seek to flee away from or fight against these storms, instead of weathering the storm in the strength and arms of Christ Jesus – your Refuge (see Isaiah 25:4).
     This clearly shows that you cannot hold on to self and to Jesus at the same time! Either you are clinging to self in any one of its many tenacious and corrupting areas, being without a refuge during the storm, or you are found hid in the Refuge, and are without any self appearing. In other words, either you have crucified all self and are hid in Jesus alone, or you have crucified Jesus and are hid in self alone! Thus self is the greatest enemy we face, and it is seeking to bar each one of us from gaining everlasting life!

     The last and most violent of all the tempests is the storm of God's wrath – the seven last plagues. This storm occurs only after probation is forever closed for every person on this earth, and this terrible storm is gathering ferocity and is heading straight towards this world. If you have not allowed self to be conquered and destroyed through the lessons learned during these previous lessor storms, then Jesus will not be your Refuge during this final and terrible tempest, and you will be forever lost.

     But must every last particle of self be crucified and mortified out of us in order to be completely hid in Jesus, be protected during the storm of God's wrath, and gain everlasting life? How was it with Jesus?
     Jesus was completely self-less in all that He did! He performed His Father's will and not his own (Psalms 40:8) at all times and in every place (John 8:29). In fact, Jesus so completely and perfectly revealed his Father through every act of His life, that no one knew Jesus Himself as a person, but only the Father (see Matthew 11:27; John 5:19, 8:28, 14:9-10). Yet, as completely selfless as His life was, He was still tested in one last area, and this was to the greatest extent possible for humanity to be tested.
     "Read the record of Christ's suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane. Never before or since has so fearful a strain been brought upon a human being as that which God permitted to be brought upon His Son at this time. It is not possible for His suffering and distress to be exceeded; for He was bearing the sins of the whole world; and in all His suffering He gave an example of absolute submission to the divine will....He laid off His royal robe and kingly crown, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might live in our behalf a life of sinlessness, and on the cross make an atonement for our transgressions. He consented to take the body of humanity. He could have refused to be thus humiliated; but it was to suffer humiliation and death that He came into the world." Signs of the Times, August 9, 1905.

     "It was in the garden of Gethsemane that the mysterious cup trembled in his hand. Would he drink of the bitter portion and save a lost world? or would he forbear and let it perish? The destiny of the fallen race trembled in the balance. If he drank of the cup of suffering, he must open his breast to the griefs and woes and sins of humanity. He prayed, ‘O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.' He had said to his disciples, ‘My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death.' His suffering almost extinguished his life. The drops of blood beaded his forehead, and dewed the sod of Gethsemane. ‘His visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men.' When he fainted as in death, an angel came to the divine Sufferer, and offered him the cup of consolation to strengthen him for the conflict." Signs of the Times, November 25, 1889.

     This cup of suffering trembled in the hands of Christ, and He sought three times to forbear drinking it to its very dregs. Yet Christ did not allow self to control Him, but fully and completely submitted to do the will of His Father – even though His entire human nature shrank from the future storm which He was called to voluntarily pass through! Thus if there was any bit of earthliness left in the human nature of Christ, it was completely burned away from His character during this fiery experience in the garden of Gethsemane. Once this was accomplished, Christ showed Himself to be so completely submitted to God's will, self was so fully and completely crucified in Him, that not the least particle of it was left alive in His humanity.
     Christ was so fully hid in God that even though He knew that He would have to drink the cup of suffering to the very last bit, thereby tasting the wrath of God and the second death for every person; and even though He had no assurance that God would accept His offering as being a sufficient and perfect sacrifice for the whole human race, which meant that He might never rise from the tomb and be forever separated from His Father, yet Jesus committed Himself to God. Jesus was fully hid in His Father and allowed nothing to break His hold or cause Him to slip away from God as His mighty Refuge! And like with Christ, a similar "Garden of Gethsemane" experience, where the last bit of earthliness will be burned away from God's final faithful people, will take place before Christ can come, the dead can be raised, and heaven can be gained!
     "The assaults of Satan are fierce and determined, his delusions are terrible; but the Lord's eye is upon His people, and His ear listens to their cries. Their affliction is great, the flames of the furnace seem about to consume them; but the Refiner will bring them forth as gold tried in the fire. God's love for His children during the period of their severest trial is as strong and tender as in the days of their sunniest prosperity; but it is needful for them to be placed in the furnace of fire; their earthliness must be consumed, that the image of Christ may be perfectly reflected.
     "The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger--a faith that will not faint though severely tried. The period of probation is granted to all to prepare for that time....Those who are unwilling to deny self, to agonize before God, to pray long and earnestly for His blessing, will not obtain it. Wrestling with God--how few know what it is! How few have ever had their souls drawn out after God with intensity of desire until every power is on the stretch. When waves of despair which no language can express sweep over the suppliant, how few cling with unyielding faith to the promises of God." Great Controversy, p 621 (Spirit of Prophecy, vol 4, p 438-439).

     Yes, God's final remnant people will know what suffering is! They will be called to also drink from this cup of suffering, and will also go through a "Garden of Gethsemane" experience in order to burn away the last bit of earthliness from their human nature.
     "Yet to human sight it will appear that the people of God must soon seal their testimony with their blood as did the martyrs before them. They themselves begin to fear that the Lord has left them to fall by the hand of their enemies. It is a time of fearful agony. Day and night they cry unto God for deliverance. The wicked exult, and the jeering cry is heard: ‘Where now is your faith? Why does not God deliver you out of our hands if you are indeed His people?' But the waiting ones remember Jesus dying upon Calvary's cross and the chief priests and rulers shouting in mockery: ‘He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He be the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.' Matthew 27:42. Like Jacob, all are wrestling with God. Their countenances express their internal struggle. Paleness sits upon every face. Yet they cease not their earnest intercession.
     "Could men see with heavenly vision, they would behold companies of angels that excel in strength stationed about those who have kept the word of Christ's patience. With sympathizing tenderness, angels have witnessed their distress and have heard their prayers. They are waiting the word of their Commander to snatch them from their peril. But they must wait yet a little longer. The people of God must drink of the cup and be baptized with the baptism. The very delay, so painful to them, is the best answer to their petitions. As they endeavor to wait trustingly for the Lord to work they are led to exercise faith, hope, and patience, which have been too little exercised during their religious experience. Yet for the elect's sake the time of trouble will be shortened." Great Controversy, p 630-631 (Spirit of Prophecy, vol 4, p 446-447).

     So the people of God will have to drink from the same cup that Christ drank from! The difference is that Christ drank to the point of tasting death for every human, while the faithful remnant people of God will not have to drink to the very last dregs of this cup. But they will have to drink right up to this point, and then this cup of suffering will be given into the hands of the wicked to drink down the very last dregs and suffer the second death!
     "Therefore hear now this, thou afflicted, and drunken, but not with wine (but with trials, suffering, oppression, etc.): Thus saith thy Lord the Lord, and thy God that pleadeth the cause of his people, Behold, I have taken out of thine hand the cup of trembling, even the dregs of the cup of my fury; thou shalt no more drink it again: But I will put it into the hand of them that afflict thee; which have said to thy soul, Bow down, that we may go over: and thou hast laid thy body as the ground, and as the street, to them that went over." Isaiah 51:21-23.

     Please do not miss THIS VITAL POINT OF TRUTH: the final remnant people of God not only drink from this cup of suffering, but they also voluntarily lay their bodies down on the ground and allow the wicked to walk all over them without a word of remonstrance or one act of resistance! Why? Because they have so fully and completely crucified self, that the last bit of earthliness has been forever consumed away from their character – just like with Jesus!
     "Standing as man's representative at Pilate's bar, he suffered the cruel sentence of death to be passed upon him by unreasonable and wicked men, and answered not a word to their accusations. The Majesty of heaven was brought as a lamb to the slaughter; and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth. When the poor sinner inquired the way of life, Jesus did not remain silent; but when condemned to the most ignominious and cruel of deaths, he had not a word to say. He was not silent because he was guilty; for he was the embodiment of purity and holiness. He could have delivered himself from those who came to take him in the garden of Gethsemane. A few words from his lips sent the murderous throng reeling to the earth, as if smitten by a bolt of the wrath of God. But he suffered humiliation, agony, and death in silence...He was not compelled to do it, but he volunteered..." Review and Herald, June 23, 1896.

     "He suffered himself to be taken by the murderous throng, and was dragged from one tribunal to another. Although Isaiah had written, ‘Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of peace,' yet he was now mocked, derided, spit upon, scourged, and maltreated. Was he innocent?--Yes; but innocence does not save men from persecution when the evil one controls the minds of their tormentors. Jesus is our pattern. He has given us an example that we should follow in his steps. Many will have to pass through scenes similar to those through which Jesus passed." Signs of the Times, November 25, 1889.

     The faithful people of God have so fully mortified self that none remains in them to rise up in defiance and remonstrate against their oppressors; no proud self remains to fight against their unjust persecutors; no self-love remains to rise up in seeking to escape from death which surely awaits them! The remnant are so settled into the truth that they cannot be moved. They have so fully committed their souls unto their righteous and loving Judge that whatever He should allow to happen to them, they voluntarily accept and humbly submit to it in order to give all the glory they can unto their Mighty God regardless of the cost – even if it should mean that their lives must be sacrificed!
     Many recoil in horror at the thought that God expects them to endure such degrading humiliation as this. And yet, this is exactly what the Bible teaches! Are you willing to endure such selfless humiliation for His sake? Who do you love more – Jesus, or self?
     "Ye (the wicked) have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you." James 5:6.

     "As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." Romans 8:36.

     "Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him..." Job 13:15.

     These remnant faithful few followers of God have overcome all self, all sin, and all obstacles – no matter how daunting to their perceptions or impossible their outlook. And because they have done so, they are symbolized as the "lively stones" which make up God's House or Temple (Isaiah 62:1-3; Revelation 21:9; 1 Peter 2:5). They have made themselves ready and have become the "bride" and "wife" of Christ – their Bridegroom (John 3:29; Matthew 25:1-10; Isaiah 62:5; Bible Commentary, vol 7, p 985-986; Revelation 19:7-9). They have become His true "glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing", because they are "holy and without blemish" (Ephesians 5:27; Song of Solomon 4:7), and clothed in the wedding garments of His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10; Matthew 22:8-14). They have received the seal of God (Revelation 7:2-3, 14:1-5), His name or character has been written upon them (Revelation 3:12; Sons and Daughters of God, p 370), and they are called by the new name of "Hephzibah" (Isaiah 62:4). They are "as a link in the chain let down" from heaven to the earth, and are "one with Christ" (see Desire of Ages, p 417). They truly are "kings and priests unto God" (Revelation 1:6), can "stand in the sight of a holy God without a Mediator" (Great Controversy, p 425; Early Writings, p 71), and can sit with Christ on His throne (Revelation 3:21)! They are indeed the most perfect image and representation of Jesus Christ this earth has ever seen, and have "an experience such as no other company have ever had" (Great Controversy, p 649-650)!

     But they were only able to obtain this exalted position, as "unprofitable servants" as they are (Luke 17:10), because they were willing to humbly tread the pathway of self-denial, enduring through all the storms and tempests, letting God burn away and consume all areas of self, and they patiently continued to drink from this cup of suffering until the Master Craftsman had precisely and lovingly chiseled and polished away all unnecessary material until their characters shown as a bright and sparkling gem. After God has done all this work during the most wicked and trying period of this earth's history, and has made up 144,000 living and glistening jewels which all reflect His glory, but none of their own, He will not forget them nor allow the wicked to destroy them, but will personally spare and grant them their place in His kingdom and His temple (Revelation 7:15; Early Writings, p 19)!
     "And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him." Malachi 3:17.

     "For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried. Thou broughtest us into the net; thou laidst affliction upon our loins. Thou has caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place (heaven)." Psalms 66:10-12.


     Oh brothers and sisters, this bright and glorious future reward of spending eternity with our Lord and God and reflecting His glorious loving character to the entire universe throughout ceaseless ages is spread out before you! The only question is: Are you willing to crucify every bit of self in His strength till it be forever mortified? Are you willing to patiently endure through all the storms by tenaciously clinging to the Refuge instead of self? Are you willing to strive with every ounce of your being to obtain everlasting life? For His name sake, are you willing to drink from the cup of suffering?




MINISTRY NEWS


     The Lord is continuing to bless our TrueChurchofGod.info website.  In the month of November we had 7,600 hits, which were generated by 789 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 2,656 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 215 million bytes of information were downloaded.
     In the month of December we had 8,791 hits, which were generated by 663 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 2,745 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 325 million bytes of information were downloaded.
     So for these past 2 months, over 540 million bytes of information were downloaded from our Gospel Truth website by over 1,400 visitors!

     The Lord is also abundantly blessing our LightMinistries.com website!  In the month of November we had 121,566 hits, which were generated by 14,204 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 26,817 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 20.27 billion bytes of information were downloaded.
     In the month of December we had 118,213 hits, which were generated by 12,924 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 29,151 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 21.08 billion bytes of information were downloaded.
     So for these past 2 months, over 41.35 billion bytes of information were downloaded from our Gospel Truth website by over 27,100 visitors! MAY GOD'S HOLY NAME BE INDEED PRAISED!!


     We would like to encourage our readers to check out a website that is dedicated to providing a “voice” to the people who have joined the separation movement out of the SDA church, as well as out of all the other churches of Babylon.  The website is www.SDRVoice.org.  This site also publishes an excellent Magazine called “The SDR Voice”.  On the site you can view past articles of interest, and can also request to be added to their mailing list to receive future copies for free.

     For those who are not able to have a home church to attend and who miss the benefit of fellowshipping together with others of like faith, there is an on-line Home Church which meets every Sabbath at 12:00 noon Central Time.  This is a live broadcast of one of our separated Home Churches in Indiana which is pastored by brother Nicholas Patula.  Please feel free to come and fellowship with others of like faith and enjoy the spiritual uplifting experience.  You can also stay after the church service and be able to chat with brothers and sisters, as well as visitors, from around the world.  Many come away with their questions answered, their hearts uplifted and filled with gratefulness for all that God has and is doing for His people!  If you would like to fellowship with us, go to www.RemnantofGod.org/pogmchat.htm.


     TO OUR SUPPORTERS: Please know that "Let There Be Light" Ministries is not using your support to build itself up into a kingdom, nor are we trying to acquire expensive video, TV or shortwave facilities.  But we are trying to spread the truth as quickly and economically as possible.  Please also know that you have played an important part in helping spread the Present Truth into various parts of this world, including through the printed page, through the living full-time workers and ministers we sponsor, and also through our websites on the internet.  This is how the Loud Cry of the third angel will be spread, and is now being spread!  If the Lord impresses you to help in these endeavors, your donations and prayers will be greatly appreciated, and not just by this Ministry.  MAY GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU!




MINISTRY NEEDS


     "Let There Be Light" Ministries is committed 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; DVD, video and audio taping, production, and distribution; supporting several ministers and 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.
     Your gracious prayers and support is greatly appreciated and needed.  Without the Lord's guidance, blessings, and your support, 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 us reach 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 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, visit the interests in their homes, and spread the printed truth translated into their native 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 MONTHLY FOREIGN MISSION WORK NEEDS

FIJI Islands:
     M Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Fiji.
     M Printing of booklets and tracts in Fiji.
     M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.

KENYA, East Africa:
M Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Kenya.
     M Printing of booklets and tracts in Kenya.
     M Projector, screen, and evangelistic film for non-SDA outreach.
     M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.
     M Computer to help with the printing work– $600.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA:
M Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to PNG.
     M Printing of booklets and tracts in PNG.
     M A small portable speaker system for street preaching.
     M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.
     M Used SOP books.
     M Clothes to pass out to naked villagers.

PHILIPPINE Islands:
M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.
     M Printing of booklets and tracts in Philippines.
     M Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Philippines.
     M Printing 100,000 tracts in Philippines--$1,450.

UGANDA, East Africa:
M Printing and mailing expenses for booklets to Uganda.
     M Printing of booklets and tracts in Uganda.
     M Printing 100,000 tracts in Uganda--$1,600.
     M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.
     M Copier machine for quick production of tracts and booklets–$2000.

ZAMBIA, Central Africa:
M Monthly operating expenses for the publication work already established there.
     M Start up costs to open a Health Center and Herbal Store--$6,000.
     M Donations of any amount to help with construction of a home–$12,000 total cost.
     M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.
     M Donations of any amount to help purchase a vehicle–$6,000 total cost.

ZIMBABWE, South Africa:
M Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Zimbabwe.
     M Printing of booklets and tracts in Zimbabwe.
     M Donations of any amount to help with construction of a home–$12,000 total cost.
     M Cartons of KJV Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books.
     M Donations of any amount to help purchase a vehicle–$6,000 total cost.

     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


Dear Elder Robert,
     Am very sorry for not providing you with information from Malawi for almost long period, this was so just because that my computer was off road. In fact, excuse me, even though I have been quiet, the work of the Lord goes on well, though not the way it was in the year of 2007 to 2008. Our ____ branch has been always on the negative because of that the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church...Indeed very few of sisters and brethren remained. Some of our friends went back to the SDA church and others have even lost their faith. In total there are six of them (that) have returned to SDA church as they were expecting at a certain time to be given something from the ministry of which it did not happen.
     Elder, well to be really frank, it has been a difficult time this year of 2009.  Many things happening around me, so many sleepless nights thinking how much work to be done that I sometimes face challenges from my family (wife) that does not pray with (me) in this ministry.
     Elder Robert, I will need special prayers from you to console me. I should thank you for the International News Letters (Eighth and Last Church - Part three; Can We Really Become Righteous - Part 1 and (Part 2); and Catholic Adventists). These News Letters have really changed minds of some Adventist members. Let us praise the Lord for the inspired message and the ALMIGHTY GOD be praised for this work. I managed to photocopy and distributed out in the streets of ____ to some members of different denominations, during literature Evangelism. I managed to distribute also some tracks for some I translated into Chichewa (Malawian) language. The tracks were for The True Church of God.
     As stated that now the Lord’s Work have started slowly.  Because of that I have started conducting Bible Studies to those newly joined sisters and brothers. Our ministry has sisters and brothers in ____, ____, ____ and some of them in ____. For ____ it is very about three hundred and 60 kilometers (360km) far as such to visit to these sisters and brothers there is need to have money for accommodation, food and transport. God has got more people in ____, only that I visit this area when I have tracks that are supposed to be distributed in ____, but otherwise there is need to conduct Bible studies for two weeks, so that a branches are opened in the ____ city of Malawi.
     As already stated, sometimes I face family problems from my wife who is not supporting me with (in this) Gospel Work. At first, myself and my wife were both of us Seventh Day Adventist Church members. From 1998 when the light of the Lord came to me on the Present Truth Message, I left the SDA Church by informing my wife, but she refused to accept. Only my children were praying (and standing) with me. My wife started threatening my children...My wife (eventually) left SDA Church (but) to join Charismatic Movement worshiping (instead). The time I left SDA Church I was called different names (such as) that am a mad person. But those people (who) called me that (I) am mad (now) they come to my house for Bible studies...
     The Ministry now has three brothers who have devoted their time to feed the Flock. These are brother ____, brother ____ and ____. Brother ____ is based in ____. Brother ____ is based in ____. It is our prayers that the ____ branch will have one brother or sister whom the ALMIGHTY GOD is going to provide shortly.
     I have sometimes been invited to the other SDA churches so that I conduct Bible studies. These Bible studies have really helped most of these SDA members...and have started understanding that the Present Truth Messages should start (being) preached into SDA churches. These churches are not urban based, but (are) the rural ones. The messages that I use normally are (produced) from some (of) the News Letters; these have helped some members of SDA to understand about who is Catholic Adventist.
     My computer had developed a big problem that needs to be repaired; though it was repaired, it (will) cost more money (or) it will not work long. (Please consider helping us with a good computer) For smooth work for translation of spiritual books which I have embarked jointly with my fellow worker Br. ____....
     May the ALMIGHTY GOD bless you with the inspired message.

Yours in Christ, B.R., Malawi.




CORRESPONDENCE FROM FOREIGN WORKERS


FROM FIJI ISLANDS

1 John 3:1.
     Dear Elder Bob,
     Greetings in the name of our Lord and may His blessing be upon you always.
     The year is coming to an end and I am thankful to the Lord Almighty for His love and kindness to me and my family.
     I have not been able to do any translation this last two months, but been distributing and delivering booklets, literatures to offices and homes of the people who wants and need them. There’s a lady (teacher) who told me that they (the couple) have been looking for the true church for a long time, when I met and gave her a booklet of “The True Church of God”. She was so happy and praised the Lord for it. They were not joining any denomination, and they are worshipping in their home, they said they know that Sunday is not the real Sabbath.
     I visited the office of the Supervisor of Election, gave him a booklet. “Latter Rain and Loud Cry”, and also a copy of the News Letter “Can We Really Become Righteous?” Part 1 & 2 cause I was told that he is a member of the S.D.A., but (was) sliding back.
     I also want to mention about this lady which is a dear friend, and she’s from ____ and she came home a couple of times, and invited my family once to her house. I have been sharing with her the word of God, and also gave her S.O.P. (GC & DA) books and she was so interested. She also lost her husband about 2 years ago, but she’s a lawyer and works in the Judiciary Department in the government. She’s such a nice and understanding lady....
     Brother Bob...Thanks for the extra money for the Bibles which came in just the right time.
     I thank you once again for your prayers and support. May God continue to bless you, your family, and the ministry, as we strive along into the field of labour.
S.K., Fiji.


FROM KENYA, EAST AFRICA

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear bro.Bob,
     1 Jn 3:1
     I thank God all His goodness. Thank you for the CD-ROM that you sent. I'm looking out for someone who can accept to install it in his computer. Those that I have approached say it occupies a lot of space. I think it makes it even more imperative to have our own (computer) because this kind of material really is a treasure to (be) taken well care of....
     We have been going round the Centres to encourage them on the need for each to be actively involved in bringing the Word close to the people. It has brought good revival; and this week we shall attend to another call from some separated group to see possibility to unite in service.
     Our December camp will kick off on 29th November. We hope to have many visitors coming as events are becoming more manifest the truth for this time.
     The church lost a very potential worker, leader and counsellor in the death of one ____ from among the Western Kenya brethren. We handled the burial, and God blessed us in sharing out our faith. The family was also very comforted....
     We received your message and all. We can’t but glorify God for all His abundant grace every day.
     We had ____ camp from 29th Nov. through December 6. On the same day we traveled to Western for another camp at ____ running through 13th. Both were successful. We had new members from the SDA church attending.
     God has blessed us with a new harvest tool! It all started in 2006 after disturbances following Godhead and (Sacred) Name studies. Many of our most trusted friends and co-workers left us, but a handful (remained)! Then as we embarked on studies, (at our ____ camp meeting), following Church History being traced on blackboard, an idea of having the chart on a cloth came up. It has been developed since with new material coming up every time, making our position very clear. It has become an impeachable tool in almost all major subjects. Maybe we shall have a photograph of the same sent to you later.

     We received the CDs in good shape and working. In fact it has become no small blessing too. A friend lent me his monitor, if I could get a CPU to run it. I squeezed myself to have one. Now I can make personal studies on it. Praise be to God our Father! I hope some things will now be easier. In case you have some study software or messages on VCDs I will appreciate. With God's blessings I hope to get a modem to access the Internet from a convenient and private environment.
     Our most active brother in service, ____ from ____ is getting married on Jan. 3, 2010. Do remembers us in all your prayers.
     Pass my special regards to all our brethren and sponsors for the good work they are doing. May God abundantly bless all.
1 Sam. 7:12.  Glory to God. B.I., Kenya.


Dear Robert,
     General Christian greetings in Jesus’ name. I hope the Lord is sustaining you well through the year. We have been so busy the last two weeks.  We had two consecutive camp meetings, one in ____ another in ____ Western Kenya. God blessed the meeting so much that the Christian unity is almost coming up (fulfilled). There was baptism and the Lord's supper on Friday 11th, and on 12th we ended the camp. On Sunday we parted.
     I thank the Lord so much for the support which He provides for the work. We are satisfied with the Lord's blessings for He says all things work together for good to them that love God - Romans 8:28. This is the truth - whether they be good or bad, they work for good to those who love God.
     May God bless you for the work you are doing. The CDs you sent reached well....
Yours, B.N., Kenya.


FROM THE PHILIPPINES

Dear Bro Bob,
     3 John 2.
     Christian Greetings! May the peace, joy and love from our God and Saviour be with you as you receive this letter.
     Just want to let you know that I already received the support money that you sent through ____ but wasn’t able to write you immediately. Thank you again for your continued support and concern.
     Sorry that I wasn’t able to write you the update of our work here. For the fast few weeks and even up to now, we are busy doing the work that God has entrusted us in His cause. Every other week, we went to ____, opening new fields, visiting new interests, giving Bible studies, establishing church and gathering together and strengthening old brethren here and in other home churches. As of this moment, me, my husband and some other youths are here in ____ city. We went back here last Thursday, and we were able to gather some of our brethren here and some other who are new and still observing in the faith during Sabbath. Some of them were in Grover’s group before, but after few weeks of sharing to them the truth through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, especially the truth on Health Reform, they've seen the light and convicted of the truth and decided to separate from Grover's and to stand with us. (Editor’s Note: may God be praised for His merciful kindness!)
     We are also sharing to some SDA's. They are observing now. They spent three Sabbaths already with us here. We really had so many (much) work here, and may God help us in doing His work for we know that without His guidance and help, we can not do it alone.
     Also, before going here, we spend few days in our brethren in ____ because our sister there had died, and we went there to comfort her family. During the wake and before she was finally buried, we gave a service and we had a privilege to share some truth and gave comfort and encouragement to the family and friends. After the burial, we spend also a Sabbath there, and during Sunday we went to the island there and settle some problem that arouse in our church there. And then went home to ____ on Tuesday, and had a talk with other brother on the issue of Godhead. And on Thursday, we went here in ____. The one that we're sharing here told us that they are inviting us to be a speaker in their tent effort in their province in ____, because the pastor of the SDA invited him there and the theme of this effort is Revival and Reformation. So we will had a chance to share the present truth in this area especially to the SDA's. (Editor’s Note: God does indeed open doors.)

     You know Bro Bob, there's a lot of work that are waiting for us to do, but we can’t do it, though we really wanted it to do, because of financial problem. The money that I received was being spent for our traveling expenses, and still is not enough if we will all accomodate all the invitations in His work, because it’s really expensive to travel. But I know and have faith in God that He will provide the need in His cause. Please help pray for the work here that it may continue in progress and bring a glorious result for the glory of the Lord.
     Till here for now Bro Bob. May God continue to bless you and your family. And may God continue to use us in His cause and find us ready when He comes.
In Christ, s.b., Philippines.


FROM UGANDA, EAST AFRICA

Dear Elder Sessler.
     Christian greetings from this way. It is almost two months that I communicate that side, it has been because Malaria fever which has been on and off a round of breakdowns.
     By the month of November I had burning impressions to visit ____ and help in the work that side, save our co-worker didn’t give (me) ... a yes (or no answer, but) he excused himself (so) that I had (to) wait until the Effort in ____ is over...So I’m waiting and asking God to give me the same burning zeal for His work (in another area). In my human planning I wanted to take a whole month going from door to door, and follow up (on) those who have slumbered in the faith. (Editor’s Note: Indeed move forward in this plan.)
     Sister ____ was this way after a long time in the country place/home, which by God’s (will) she chose (to) stay (in) heeding the counsel of the True Witness – even the Spirit of Prophecy more so after reading the Ministry of Healing. And God has been so faithful, while this side she would suffer several breakdowns for she is (has) Sickle Cell Anemia...But being in that village environ for almost two years she has only had two breakdowns, (so) we praise God that He keeps watch over His word. She took with her some Spirit of Prophecy books and our booklets, to give to those upon God’s impressions, that they heed the silent messengers; that is how our Heavenly Father chooses to do His work.
     Had single move to senior quarters (and) shared with some given to liquor abuse about the need of being born again.  And I have this confidence that Christ did work upon his life, for today someone brought info (about) how truly a change has come upon this dear soul. I would have loved to move (closer) save I’m impeeded with general weakness and dizziness, (but) our God is good (as) I‘m improving.
     The work this side is difficult, taking a new shape and new challenges every other day, save we have confidence in this scripture of Romans 8:28 (that) all is being done for the good of those who love God.
Yours in Christ Jesus, H.K., Uganda.


FROM ZAMBIA, CENTRAL AFRICA

Dear Elder Bob,
     Greetings in the name of our Jesus our Saviour. The Lord is good to us and the Church in Zambia. Last month was a month of visiting local churches for me. Together with the ____ Central Church members we managed to visit two of our sister churches. In these programmes I discovered that the great Lord has opened the hearts of many souls to getting the truths as they see the prophecy unfolding in their eyes.
     At the last home church we visited two weeks ago we meet a new man who joined the group of our members at that church who has wondered in many churches, e.g. SDA; SD Reformed and Dividians. After the studies that we had that Sabbath, the man came out openly and confessed that the message we have is the correct one. He further promised to continue worshiping with this home church at ____ SDR church. I praise God that the truths He has given us is the great truths that many people are appreciating.
     Br. Bob, the Lord is good. The fact that we have now registered our church with the Registration Office it has now opened the great way for us to do all that we needed to do for all this long (time) that came to a standstill due to lack of registration. I see that this is why the Devil is annoyed with my family (being) that great and unusual things are taking place in my family members. I thank you brethren for the prayers that have keep my daughter ____ with life.
     Br. Bob, here is what had happened with my daughter. I know you know my daughter ____ very much, the one you gave the hymn (book to) when you came in 2006. As you know that we are now in ____ now, the girl also is with us. I took her at govt school, and she is in grade nine and soon to sit for her Junior exams. She meet a friend whom she did not know her background well, who at last was discovered to be a Satanist. ____ used to tell the friend about her stand and faith and about Jesus. In the same process the friend was also planning to make a way of making ____ join her in Satanism. Later she discovered that ____ was too much (strong) of the word of God, and so this girl was instructed to by her superior leaders to kill ____ because to them she was stubborn. ____ felt sick in the last week of Oct, 2009, and she started seeing strange things like big snakes on her bed and two men bringing food for her to eat. ____ my wife tried (to help her) and as parents we thought it was Malaria, but this was too much (happening for that sickness alone). We thought we should devote (much time) into serious prayers, and we called one of the brethren in our home church.
     After few days of these prayers...the Lord revealed a lot of wonders. We went at ____’s school and meet the administrators and asked them about this girl whom ____ later told us asked her strange questions about magic group. The girl and her parents where called and ____ was asked to tell the group of teachers and us parents what she was asked. After that when the girl was asked whether ____ was right she started testifying greater things, that she was a queen and she wanted ____ to join her, but the girl was a Christian, and so the next step was to just kill her. She further told us that she had 6 international demons and had killed many white, and initiated more than 200 people in Satanism, and had a list of those to kill on which our daughter was the first. The girl cried and her father joined her and they both wept....
     We thank you brethren for your prayers that the Lord has intervened; otherwise we would be missing our daughter. She is believed and the girl was left in the hands of the parents to solve theirs (problems) too. We are still praying and we still ask that you continue remembering us in your family prayers. It is on this point that I have also asked my great Lord to help me do His work as never before again. Pray with me and the fact that our church is now registered I again give my life in His hands that He can use me as never (before)....(Editor’s Note: dear brother, please be assured that our prayers will continue to be with and for you, your precious family, and the work there!)
     The next thing am praying for is that may His grace be upon me that I find some means to start building our house so that even when I will be out of home I will not worry of rental (fees) as the situation is now (currently). Pray with me on this point, and I will appreciate your contribution of any amount towards this project....
     NOTE: I have received a very serious and wonderful call from ____ district the Eastern party of Zambia where 10 more other churches of SDAs have been disburdened by the Leadership because of refusing to follow new theology teachings from (their) pastors. We wanted to go there last week, but means have failed. Please, this is an emergency call (and) if it pleases God may supporters help us with $450 for three people to go there at any time. I have a young brother who was brought up in my house who happen to be a soldier (____) in that area, and (also) a member of (one of) these church so who remembered that what we have is the truth.  (He is) now calling that we can go there and be at his house as he has organized for leaders to meet us. Please help tell brethren to help (us).
God be with you all. W.M., Zambia.


FROM ZIMBABWE, SOUTH AFRICA

Dear Elder Bob.
     “Grace be unto you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 1:3.
     I salute you my brother in the name of our Lord and them that are of your household, and may you all be edified by these words: 1 Corinthians 1:4-9; Ephesians 6:21.
     Once more it’s my pleasure to meet with you this time of the year. I am very happy through the manifold blessings that the infant church here is receiving. I do not forget the privilege of being found worthy to have a part in the completion of this great work of the gospel. This year is now coming to an end and I am pleased to report that I have also finished the noble work of translation on tracts and I am sending them to you together with this report.
     I shall be sending to you 9 completed tracts this time namely: God’s True Church (sent under the (file) tittle True Church); Is Death To Be Feared? (under the title Death Fear); God’s Temple Needs Cleansing!? (as God’s Temple); God’s Sanctuary and Dwelling Place (as God’s Sanctuary); The Truth About Hell; The Battle of Armageddon; The Principles of Good Health; Life After Death; and These Laws Restore Health!
     I shall also be sending to you the two tracts that remained from the last lot that I sent to you. Therefore, altogether I shall be sending to you 11 completed tracts by the grace of God. I have resolved to begin holding Evangelistic meetings by mid next year, and thus why I am solidly concentrating on translation this time for I wish by the grace of God to distribute some (of) these during the meetings. This issue of having Evangelistic efforts, however, is still a subject of contention here, but I am fully convinced they are supposed to be done. I wish to be supported in this work. I wish if I could get a tent, PA system, the generator, the projector and distribution material. I am looking forward to marshal together my team for this work. But in the mean time I shall continue on translation, but this time on Booklets.
     May God bless this ongoing work. And allow me to express my gratitude to our supporters (friends of the truth) to their selfless commitment to the spreading of this present truth. I am greatly humbled by your continued support BRETHREN, and may the Lord multiply your resources.
Yours, fellow laborer in the Lord, B.K., Zimbabwe.