EDITORIAL: "Seeking God - Being Alone With Jesus!"
FEATURE ARTICLE: "The Fullness Of An Event!"
A Matter of Faith is published once Monthly, and is distributed only to those who have asked to receive it. If you ever need to unsubscribe, simply send a blank email from the address where you received this ezine to:
Unsubscribe.
This is an opt-in emailing list and we have a copy of every subscription request on file. If you did not ask for it, and do not want to receive this newsletter, please simply unsubscribe.
IN THIS ISSUE:
1. EDITORIAL: "Seeking God - Being Alone With Jesus!"
2. SITE OF THE MONTH: Wilderness Voice, by Michael and Dorothy Clark
3. FEATURE ARTICLE: "The Fullness Of An Event!"
4. TOOL OF THE MONTH: CanadaRX: Prescription medications at reasonable prices.
5. PRAYER REQUESTS: Submitted by our Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
6. FEEDBACK: The Subscriber's Section - Your Input Matters.
7. CONTACT US: We are here for you!
1. EDITORIAL: "Seeking God - Being Alone With Jesus!"
Throughout the Gospel's, we are provided with an amazing panorama of Jesus' lifestyle. A life style that we are strongly urged to
imitate (Ephesians 5:1). One truly significant act that Jesus repeatedly performed, was that He knew how and when to withdraw
from society; He knew that He needed to get away from the world and get close with His Father in heaven. For instance, we are
told that, "After He had sent the multitudes away, He went up to the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He
was there alone" (Matthew 14:23 NASB). Also see: Matthew 14:13; Luke 5:16, 9:18 and John 6:15 for a few other references...
We are, therefore, strongly urged to follow His example and withdraw - alone!
I enjoy going on long hikes. I especially enjoy using the solitude of those hikes as a special time to communicate with God. Living
in North Idaho has been an absolute joy for me, because there is no lack of wonderful and beautiful trails; no lack of special
places to be alone. In spite of these facts though, as of late, I have been so involved in "things" that I have forgotten my quite
time. I have forgotten to get away from this world and draw nearer to God!
Recently, however, I found myself on a Pacific Ocean Island (more on this in our feature article) and during my week-long stay at
that island, I had some wonderful opportunities to withdraw from humanity - and draw closer to our Lord. As it turned out, it
was
a much needed retreat, and one that I shall not soon forget.
On the night before I was to leave the island, I found myself walking at water's edge - starting around 10PM - and in the absolute
darkness of a moonless night, with no artificial lighting to interfere with my view, I found my path lit by the splendor of the Milky
Way. From horizon to horizon (there are no mountains on this particular island) I witnessed the expanse of God's creation in the
heaven's, as the stars shone brightly in the sky. I was humbled beyond expression. As I fell to my knees in praise, worship and
adoration, and as I lay on my back staring up at the stars, my heart burst forth in the worship that I craved; in the sort of worship
that I had known in the past - when I used to withdraw to the wilderness more frequently - but that had eluded me in recent
times, because I was too busy.
To further show His majesty though, and to further humble His servant, the Lord opened my eyes to another splendor of the
night; a splendor which stretched out at my feet: I walked along that beach for hours that night, and when I finally lowered my
eyes from heaven, the Lord showed me something that brought me once again to my knees... It was a remarkable discovery!
As I walked along the water's edge, on the sand that was moist from an occasional lapping of the waves, I noticed countless small
green fluorescent lights peering up through the sand - seemingly staring up at the heavens above. As I fell to my hands and
knees, in order to view this spectacle more closely, I praised the God of creation Who declares that, "Star differs from Star in
glory", and I acknowledged that He has placed each star - whether in heaven or on earth - in their precise location, for the praise
of His glory.
These tiny fluorescent lights, ranging in size from about 1/16" to 3/32" in diameter, were doubtless some sort of tiny crab or other
sea creature (sorry, but I wasn't about to stick my hand into the sand to find out what lay beneath the surface) but for that
moment, they represented a spiritual lesson of the greatness of God - and our need to get alone with Him. We need to be alone
with Him so that He can teach us about Himself and His creation; so that He can display His majesty to us on a personal level; so
that He can recharge our hearts and souls!
Additionally, God showed me that although the stars in heaven may reflect His glory, there are stars right here with us, walking
amongst us, whose sole desire is to glorify Him! Yet, unless we remove the world from our thoughts, and unless we totally
surrender ourselves to His guidance, we will never recognize His glorious chosen one's; His faithful servants! We must separate
ourselves from the world and the brightness of the artificial light, in order to see the true light of His glory. Simply, we must follow
Jesus' lead, and get alone with God!
When was the last time you withdrew, brethren, and allowed God to show you His "Sand Stars"? When was the last time you
totally sequestered yourself from the invasion of man-made creations, in order to worship the One and True Creator?
Find the time to be with Him - today, brethren. You will never regret spending your moments at God's knee!
2. SITE OF THE MONTH: Wilderness Voice, by Michael and Dorothy Clark
I have known Michael and Dorothy for nearly eight years, and have personally witnessed their struggles and growth in our Lord
Jesus Christ. The teachings that you will find at Wilderness Voice are founded upon God's Word, and are written through the
tears and struggles of two souls whose primary desire is to bring praise, honor, glory and worship unto their Lord!
As you progress through the writings, you will witness the growth; you will see wisdom increase. Prayerfully, therefore, these
writings may add to your wisdom, knowledge and understanding - and in that gain, perhaps hasten the return of our loving and
triumphant Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Wilderness Voice can be found at: http://wildernessm.homestead.com/
3. FEATURE ARTICLE: "The Fullness Of An Event!"
As mentioned in our Editorial, I recently visited a tiny Atoll in the pacific ocean, and spent a glorious week on a spectacular
island. The reason for this trip was quite simple: I was being interviewed for a job on the island, and was at the same time
attempting to discover precisely what was taking place on the island. After all, I needed to learn whether or not Charlie and I
would fit in with the island society - as well as discover whether or not this operation was something I thought the Lord was
leading me to manage. At least that is what I thought the voyage was about!
As it turned out, however, and as the Lord has quickly shown me since returning from that trip, we, "See things as they are
outwardly" and, "Your way is not My way, and My way is not your way." God had other plans for that trip, and to the praise of
His glory - those plans are still unfolding weeks after my return.
I learned of this job opening through a very dear sister in the Lord, who just happens to be the director of human resources for
the parent company to the island operation. Through a simple exchange of thoughts with the president of the company, and a
suggestion that I might be capable of assuming the responsibility of the Island General Manager position, I suddenly found myself
island bound.
Unlike most visitor's to the island, however, my primary objective was not to play tourist. I went to be interviewed and to
interview! I went to discover and be discovered! I went to evaluate and to be evaluated! And, in the recesses of my heart, I knew
that I would be provided with some quality time to be alone. So, I went with the desire to spend as much time as possible with
the Lord! Thankfully, all of these things took place according to His plan...
Meanwhile, however, back in the "States", our sister in the Lord was about to be bombarded in a spiritual battle!
The Island community, especially in this situation, was very small. Approximately 40 American's live on the island, along with
about one hundred men from Sri-Lanka, Thailand and the Philippines. Additionally, upward of one hundred tourists can be found
on the island during any given week. Naturally, therefore, it is essential that whoever is sent to the island, must fit in with the
community that already exists. This we could have done - for the praise of His glory! But there were other factors that prevented
this from happening.
If you have read The Letters, you know that I try very hard to walk according to the fullness of the teachings set forth in God's
Word. In so doing, however, I do not walk with a cross on my shoulder, proclaiming judgments or railing forth sermons. With all
my heart, I try to walk in loving humility; silently proclaiming God's love, joy and peace through my mannerism's, gestures and
sincerity. And, with all of my heart, I proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior to any and all who might ask just what it is that
makes me different! Additionally, in my presentations, I am painfully honest and direct (not abrupt, mind you - I am just a very
straight shooter)...
I am humbled to report that the week was laden with wonderful exchanges of God's testimony - especially with the other visiting
guests. (I am very careful about maintaining a proper presence in the office environment, because there is a time and a place for
spiritual conversations). Nevertheless, we are now exchanging Email with six new families that I met during my week on the
island. Families which, by the way, know about The Letters and this newsletter.
Anyway, throughout the interview process - with every department manager - I would exchange thoughts on my philosophy of
business, and in those exchanges I would honestly and humbly answer their questions as I also set forth my managerial style. A
management style of honesty, integrity and dedication: Toward whatever company I might work for; Toward all of the employee's
that might work for me; and Toward whatever guests might visit the island.
As the week wore on though, it became obvious that my style stood in direct conflict with a few of the personal agenda's that
existed on the island - and reports began flowing back to the stateside corporate offices that I was not a suitable candidate. The
details of these agenda's are insignificant to this writing, because God was in charge of the week (as He is with all things).
Nonetheless, even though the job was do-able, it was not God's will for us to move to this secluded island retreat.
Sadly though, our sister at the corporate office began to feel the pressure of this rejection! I say, "sadly" only temporarily,
however, because God was beginning to work in ways that we will never fully comprehend in this lifetime. You see, God was
teaching us invaluable lessons. Lessons that will serve us - to the praise of His glory - throughout our remaining days.
While my intent for visiting the island was to interview for a job, and her intent was to help a brother in the Lord find a job - while
also satisfying her company's need for a strong Island General Manager, God's intent was to show me that I had been neglecting
my quiet time, while also teaching the fullness of the fact that each action we undertake has monumental ramifications;
ramifications that ripple through society in ways that escape our notice.
During the process of interviewing for a job, He arranged for the witness and testimony of His Son to be heard by some who
simply may have been ignoring His call for some time. And, to what end this witnessing may have, we simply will not know in this
lifetime, because while I may have spoken to a few souls during the week, only God knows how many other souls will be effected
through their faithful witnessing - once He empowers them to carry on His Word!
All of these things occurred, by the way, because one faithful servant - our sister - was heeding the guidance of God's Holy Spirit.
He was moving her to initiate a series of events that would effect countless lives, including her own! My role was simply to be the
man of God that He wants me to be.
Our loving and faithful sister and I have learned some valuable lessons throughout all of this, beloved, and it is these lessons I wish
to impart through this writing today:
Primarily, God is in charge! God has a plan! Only through our sincere submission to the guidance of His Holy Spirit will we ever
be able to faithfully and gloriously testify of His Salvation through Jesus Christ. And, most importantly, no matter how insignificant
the act, only God knows the fullness of the impact which our (Faithful or faithless) actions, deeds and words will have - eternally!
For instance: When you speak with a child, you may think that you are merely speaking to a child today, but the words you place
before that child may significantly impact the remainder of that child's life - and in effect, significantly impact every person whom
that child will come in contact throughout their life!
That is noteworthy, don't you think?
Every act, every deed and every word spoken, must be taken into consideration of the God whom we serve. The fullness of an
event will become known when we square off with Him, face-to-face!
Our fervent prayer is that we shall all hear, "Well done thou good and faithful servant!"
4. TOOL OF THE MONTH: CanadaRX, Prescription Medications at reasonable prices.
My Mother-in-Law is an elderly individual on a fixed income (also on Medicare) who is being slowly bankrupt by the American
Pharmaceutical Companies - and the current pricing of her medications in this country.
In an attempt to save her some money, I began to search for a reputable out-of-country pharmaceutical company, where she
could possibly save a few dollars. My search has ended with CanadaRX.
CanadaRX is a co-operative group of Pharmacies located in Canada committed to lowering the prescription costs for patients
living in the United States. Their Pharmacists have extensive experience in managing the prescription needs of persons with
Chronic and Acute Medical Conditions, requiring prolonged drug therapy.
What I learned is that CanadaRX can lower your prescription costs by:
* Providing prescription drugs at the bulk discount prices negotiated by the Canadian Government with all pharmaceutical
companies.
* Filling Prescriptions with less expensive generic drugs whenever possible.
* Controlling dispensing fees by dispensing the maximum number of days of supply allowed.
* Offering guaranteed long term pricing on your prescriptions. CanadaRX prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars which
historically trades at a substantial discount to the U.S. Dollar. The advantage to you is lower prescription costs after conversion.
Shipping is charged to the patient at cost. Payment can be made using any valid VISA, Mastercard or American Express credit
card.
They have a Prescription Quotation service that will help determine if the CanadaRX program would benefit you. And, if you are
a pet owner, you will want to visit the site at PetPharm, the Pet Pharmacy.
CanadaRX can be found at:
http://www.canadarx.net/cgi- bin/SmallFrame.cgi?contentfame=http://www.canadarx.net/index2.html
My Mother-in-Law, by the way, will be saving $57.00 per month for just one prescription.
I hope you, or someone you love, will find this to be a helpful tool!
5. PRAYER REQUESTS: Submitted by our Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
* Alexander has had his first surgery, and all is well... Foula has yet to discover the fullness of God's love, but she is receiving a
taste through the work being done on her son.
* Margeret has returned from her hiatus with a renewed spirit, and is seeking God's continued guidance for her life.
* Requests are continually being made that we pray for the youth of the world.
* Requests are continually being made that we pray constantly for the Body of Christ, and especially that eyes would be opened
to the false movements taking place within the "Church" today... False prophets and self-appointed apostles are deceiving many,
and we must pray against this worldly and Satanic attack.
* Countless requests are coming in from brothers and sisters in Christ, who are praying for their unsaved family members. And in
this, we wholeheartedly add our request as well: For Mothers and Dads (Mother-In-Law and Father-in Law too). For Brothers
and Sisters (In-Law's too). For Children, Nephews and Nieces!
* Many are seeking prayer for jobs. (We know that one too!)
* As always, we covet your prayers for this ministry.
6. FEEDBACK: The Subscriber's Section - Your Input Matters.
Regarding the young man who thought he had blasphemed the Holy Spirit:
* "I would say to the young man, that he has asked forgiveness from God, and God forgives him. We have all blown it in some
way or another. I am 52 years old, and still battle with bad thoughts, but I love God. I received an email recently that was very
helpful - this was given to people prone to look at pornography - open the Bible and read out loud for 2-3 minutes. The devil
hates that. I am going to begin doing this. There is power in God's word. God bless!"
S. J.
* "And just to prove he has not blasphemed the Holy Spirit, would God be working in his life and would he truly be concerned.
The Pharisees were not concerned with what Jesus said about blaspheme, but this young man is. And to go even one step farther;
regarding the people that are condemning him and putting fear into his life. Jesus said that it would be better to have a mill stone
tied around your neck and cast into the deepest sea as opposed to offend on of His children." R.H.
* "Concerning the article now, my heart went out to this young man. He has been whipped by the accuser of the brethren coming
thru his own mind and operating thru Christians who are not aware that the enemy is using them. Our prayer of agreement is very
powerful Larry. One chases a thousand, two ten thousand and after that I can't do the math its way up there. How about you and
me come in agreement for this precious young man." J.T. (We prayed together for him).
* "Please add my agreement with yours that the 17 year old is indeed a child of a living God who loves us in youthful stupidity." M.R.
* "I read what you wrote to that fellow who thought he committed unpardonable sin.. I agree with what you told him.. The others
who judged him - I feel are only adding to the lies of the devil and what spirit are THEY from?
* "At first glimpse of his testimony, I felt quickened that he would not be forgiven. On the surface, it would appear this way. But,
the Lord laid it on my heart to study His words and His truth. When we study the word itself "blasphemy" it really puts a whole
new light on the answer." C.S.
7. CONTACT: larry vosen:
If you have any questions about the Bible, God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Gospel, Faith or any pressing spiritual matter, please feel free to contact me. While I may not possess the answers personally, I know Who Does! Every effort will be made to secure the answer you seek.
Do you have a prayer request? Please share your needs with us... We will post your needs in our "Prayer Request" sections, and approach the Throne of God in a united front on your behalf.
We can be reached via email at: Contact
larry
Or, please feel free to mail your thoughts and requests to:
Larry Vosen
2600 E. Seltice Way, #203
Post Falls, ID 83854
Return to the "A Matter of Faith"
Past Issue page
or
Contact larry
Copyright©2000-2001, Post Falls, ID.