Loving the Son of God

EMBRACE Surely I am with you always. “With” you to help you become more and more like Him. Mt 28:19 c
GRASP Hold to my teaching, … Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. Jn 8:31,32 c
LOVE Love the Lord your God with all your heart with all your soul … mind and … strength. Mk 12:30 c
BELIEVE Believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing you may have life. Jn 20:31 c
TRUST Prodigal: Trust God will welcome you back as His child even if you have wandered away.Lk 15:11-32 p
PRAY Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. early in the morning Lk 5:16 ex
DEPENDI do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. Jn 8:28 ex
OBEY Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man. Mt 7:24 c
FOLLOW I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness. Jn 8:12 c
SUBMIT Jesus surrendered to God even though in anguish “Yet not my will, but yours be done.” Lk 22:42 ex
RECEIVE He will give you another advocate (the Holy Spirit) to help you and be with you forever. Jn 16:14 ex

Loving the Children of God

LOVE By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.Jn 13:35 c
SERVE he Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life. Mk 10:45 ex
RESTORE To reconcile: first go to brother alone, then with two others, then the church. Mt 18:15-17 c
MEDIATEBlessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Mt 5:9 c
FORGIVE Have mercy on others and forgive them just as God, the Father, has forgiven you. Mt 18:21-35 p
BLESS Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Lk 6:28 c
HELP Help those in need to express faith: hungry, thirsty, stranger, unclothed, ill or in prison Mt 25:33-40 c
HEAL Jesus gave His disciples authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease. Mt 10:1 ex
CARE He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep with out a shepherd. Mk 6:34 ex
WITNESS Your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones be lost. Mt 18:10-14 p
DISCIPLE Make disciples of all nations … and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded. Mt 28:19,20 c
BAPTISE Baptizing them in the name of the Father of the Son and the of Holy Spirit. Mt 28:19 c
REMEMBER This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” Likewise the cup…. Lk 22:19,20 c

Loving the Kingdom of God

SEEK Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you. Mt 6:33 c
VIEW View and listen to things with spiritual ears so you may understand spiritual truths. Mt 13:3-23 p
VALUE Know the value of the kingdom. Be willing to give up all you have to posses the kingdom. Mt 13:44-46 p
GROW Just like a plant grows slowly in good soil, growing spiritually takes time in the Word. Mk 4:10-29 p
USE Use your talents or gifts, no matter how few they appear to be, for God’s glory. Mt 25:14=30 p
ACCEPT Accept others, so you do not accidentally damage a new Christian. Let God judge later. Mt 13:24-30 p
SHINE Let your light shine before others, that they may see … and glorify your Father. Mt 5:16 c
IMITATE I (Jesus) have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. Jn 17:4 ex
REST Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Mt 11:28 c
DISCERN False messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and wonders to deceive. Mk 13:22 c
REBUKE You deaf and mute spirit … I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.Mk 9:25 ex
EMULATE Anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things. Jn 14:12 c

Walk Free With Christ summarizes teachings of Christ taught with commands = c, example = ex , and parables = p
With Christ helping us, we can become more like Him each day and disciple others: a process called sanctification.
Bible quotations from the New International Version (NIV ) Biblica 2011 in italics Bible summary regulator font.
Dalene DeGraaf www.WalkFreeMinistries.com© June 2011

In the Bible, Jesus says the Kingdom of God
Is like a man building a house.
Luke 6:47-48; Matt 7:24-27
Every one who comes to Jesus
Hears His words
And practices them
And follows them
And does them.
Is like a man building a house
First he digs down deep
Below the sand on the surface:
To lay the foundation
To lay the floor
To lay a base
On solid rock
When it rained an rained
With the wind blew and blew
When the streams over flowed
When a floods came
When the raging flood waters
Struck the house
But could not shake it
But could not move it
But could not destroy it.
Because it was well built
On the firm foundation
Of hearing Jesus words
And doing them.

Today we are going to look at other ways
Building a house is like
Building a life on Jesus’ teaching
He taught different ways.
The far right column shows different ways.
C=Commands
P=Parables
Ex=Example.

Here in Uganda,
Many fathers have land
And as the children grow,
Or when the father passes away
The children receive their father’s land
As an inheritance.
It is a free gift
Given to them as children of the Father.
Likewise
Your Father who is in heaven
Has “land” in the Kingdom of Heaven.
When you believe in God the Father.
When you believe in God the Son.
When you believe the Son died for your sins.
You become children of God,
You can call him Abba Father or Daddy God.
You become adopted into God’s family.
You become heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven
And your inheritance is the land
On which you can build a house.

Your inheritance is a free gift of your Father.
You don’t need to do anything to earn it.
You don’t need to do anything to work for it.
You don’t need to do anything but receive it.

Your inheritance is like Who I am In Christ.
It is your new identity.
You are a child of God.
You are Jesus Friend.
You are forgiven all your sins.
You are protected from the evil one.
You are God’s workmanship to do good works.
You are the temple of God: where God dwells.

All of these become true the instant you believe.
They are the gift of God thru Jesus Christ
They are the gift of God called “Salvation”.

Building the house is like “Sanctification”
The process of growing in Christ.
The process of doing what Christ taught.
The process of Walking Free

A piece of land isn’t a home
Unless you build a house on it.
Your father gave you the land as a free gift,
But it is your responsibility,
To build the house on the land.
It is your responsibility,
To learn and to do what Jesus taught.
God the father will help you.
His Son Jesus Christ will instruct you.
His Spirit the Holy spirit will guide you.

The solid foundation
Is the Word of God.
Is the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Is it possible to GROW as a Christian
With out knowing what Christ taught?
With out knowing what Christ did?
With out doing what Christ says?

Where do we learn these things?
The Bible
The Word of God
The Holy Scriptures.
Most of what Jesus said
Is in the Gospels
Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
Jesus also spoke to Paul
And that is recorded in the Book of Acts.

Walk Free With Christ
Is a summary of the teachings
Of Jesus Christ.

All I did was read the four Gospels
Look for what Jesus taught about how to live:
In commands
Parables
Example
So we begin to Grow in Christ
We begin to Walk Free With Christ
By learning what Jesus Christ taught.

The fourth one on Walk Free With Christ:
BELIEVE that Jesus is the Messiah,
The Son of God.
That by believing you may have life.
That first step toward loving Jesus.
This is about “Salvation.”

The rest of Walk Free With Christ
Is about “Sanctification”
The various things Jesus taught.
About how we should love the Son of God.
About how we should love the Children of God.
About how we should love the Kingdom of God.
Love
Love
Love
This is about “Sanctification”
This is about imitating Christ as our example.

The bricks are made of love.
Love builds the walls that make it a family home.
Love builds the walls n lets you invite others in.
Love builds the walls that keep the evil one out.
Just as bricks can be placed different ways.
Just as bricks can be different sizes and shapes
Love can be expressed in different ways.
Love can be practiced at different times.
You practiced love differently different times.

Likewise, your house does not look like others.
Others have different bricks.
Others have different gifts.
Others have different service.
Others have different ways to serve God.

You probably cannot Love in all the ways
At the same time.
(In Uganda often they buy a few bricks at once.)
So just like you might start to build a house
With a few bricks.
You may start to rebuild your new life.
With a few of Jesus teachings about Love.

When you are building with bricks
Most important thing is choosing the cement.
No cement and the house will fall down.
Good cement will hold bricks in place for years.
Prayer is the cement for the house.
Prayer keeps you connected With God.
Prayer is what holds your bricks of love in place.
Prayer is on all sides of the bricks.
Pray before you do an act of love
So you will do it your best.
Pray after you do an act of love
So it will be received well.

Jesus often went by himself and prayed.
He wants us to spend time alone in prayer.
It is important to pray when you worship here.
But you need to pray alone and often.
You can pray as you work with children
Praying a blessing on each one of them
You can pray as you walk some place
Praying for people you pass
You can pray as you do your work
Praying it will be a blessing on others.

Pray to God thru Jesus and thru the Holy Spirit
Pray expectantly
Expecting God to answer
Expecting God to speak
Expecting God to show how to build your house
Do you build a house all alone?
No, you build it with friends and family to help.
People to hand you bricks.
People to help put rafters in place.
People to help you know what to do next.
Likewise you follow the teachings of Christ.
With fellow ship with other Christians.
Christian people from your church.
Christian family members.
Christian friends.

The first row of bricks is to remember
EMBRACE the knowledge that …
Jesus is with you always.
You are not building this new life alone
God is With you.
Jesus is With you.
Holy Spirit is With you.

Another row is to
GRASP or hold on to the teachings of Jesus
Because they are the truth
The truth will set you free
To build a House for God.

As you plan your house you will put in a door way.
The door opening is to have relationships.
That is in the section about
“Loving the Children of God.”
So the door opening allows you to invite people in
To show them you LOVE them
To SERVE.
To CARE and HELP.
To RESTORE relationships.
To FORGIVE those who hurt you
To BLESS them and asking God to bless.
You may even invite people in to have Bible study
To WITNESS to them.
To teach and DISCIPLE them.
Walk Free With Christ could be a Bible study.

But a door way also needs a door for protection.
Because you want to keep out people who harm.
So you need to use discernment
Just like in God’s kingdom you use discernment.
To decide who will teach you about God.
To decide who teaches the truth.
To decide who shows you His love.
Who do you let into the house?
Who do you decide is better to say “no” to?
People who sin to others by lying.
People who encourage you to sin.
People who abuse their power.

Another thing you want to have in your house
Is openings for windows.
Windows allow in the Light of God.

In the beginning God Created light.
God gave us His Word, the Bible to be light.
God sent us His Son, Jesus to be our light.
God sent the Holy Spirit to shine light.
So there need to be windows to let in light
In order that we can soak up the light of Jesus.

Windows also let light out.
We can shine for Him.
And be the light for all.
To turn darkness into light
To turn people from Satan to God.
To bring people into the family of God.

If you are laughing with each other,
If you are enjoying each other,
If you are singing Christian songs,
If you are listening to Christian radio,
Your neighbors can hear.
On the other hand…
If you are yelling at each other,
If you are fighting with each other,
Your neighbors can hear that, too.
What kind of light do you let shine?

But like the door way
Not all that can come into a window is good.
So when it storms or when it is night
You have shutters to close over the opening.
To keep you safe from evil spiritual influences

When to have the window open to let light in.
When to close them to keep bugs out.
When to close them to keep rain out.
In God’s kingdom
You need discern good from evil.
You need to rebuke evil.
You need to shut your spiritual shutters.

Sometimes you are building a house.
But you do not know how to do a certain thing.
You do not know how to put on a roof
Or you do not know how to put in a kitchen sink.
Then you might go visit someone who does that
And watch them and imitate them
Just like Jesus wants us to IMITATE Him
Jesus says we will even do greater things.
So that would be to EMULATE Him.

One of the last things to go on a house is the
roof
The roof rests on the bricks of love.
The roof protects those in the house.
From too much sun keeping it cool in the day.
From too much rain keeping it warm and dry.

When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane.
He SUBMITTED to God
The Bible tells us Jesus was in agony.
He knew what was before Him
Death on the Cross.
So He asked God.
So He pleaded with God.
“Please let this cup pass from me.”
In the end He said
“Not my will but thy will be done.”
He surrendered to God’s will

Likewise
You may not like to do what Jesus teaches.
You may not want to do what God asks of you.
But you need to cover every thing you do
To LOVE God and His Sone
With an attitude of Surrender.

You may not like some people God put in your life.
You may not want to LOVE FORGIVE,and BLESS
But you need to cover every thing you do
To LOVE each other.
With an attitude of SUBMIT one to another.

You may not like some of your life.
You may not like the things God gave you.
But you need to cover every thing you do
With an attitude of Contentment in all things.
With an attitude of Thanksgiving for all things.

So today we have seen how learning to
Walk Free With Christ.

What is the Land?
Your free inheritance of Salvation from God.

What is the foundation?
The teachings of Jesus in the Bible.

What are the bricks?
The different ways to love like Jesus.

What is the cement?
Prayer as we reach out in love.

Who do we build with?
With the help of God, Jesus and Holy Spirit.
With the help of our fellow Christians.

What is the open door?
To have relationships to Love God’s Children.

What is the door for?
To close with discernment on harmful people.

What are the windows?
To let the light of God shine in.
To let our lights shine out.

What are the shutters for?
To close with discernment evil spiritual beliefs.
What is the roof?

Surrender to God.
Submit one to another.
Contentment in all things.

Let these attitudes cover every thing.
And they will protect you from the heat.
And they will protect you from the rain.
That come in this life.

Note:
The most fun thing was asking the questions.
Because several people were taking notes.
And several of them raised their hands.
And some even mouthed each answer.
So I knew they were listening.

The house as an analogy came from Maggie.
The various parts of the house from e.
So I am indebted to them for their ideas.

Pastor Appolo’s Walls of Salvation Church
6/26/11 Dalene DeGraaf
www.walkfreeministries.com

Steps Outline:  Walking to Freedom in Christ
Intro: In Christ, God has set you free, but believing satan’s lies keeps you in bondage

The Bible says: It is for freedom that Christ set us free.
Stand firm then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Gal 5:1.

The Bible says: If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord”
and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead,
you will be saved. Rom 10:9.

Salvation:               Believing you were a sinner and Jesus is God’s Son who died for your sins.
Sanctification:       Becoming more like Jesus by turning away from sin and turning to God.
Discipleship:          Teaching others to be more like Jesus and turn from sin to God.

Steps Outline
Help you become sanctified by turning from sin to Godly behavior.
Help you to disciple others by teaching them to be free from sin in Christ.

Do you want to love and be closer to God and to others in your life?

Jesus death on the cross set you free to love God and others.
Satan’s goal is to separate you from God with lies and patterns of sin.
Satan wants you to continue in bondage like being in a jail with walls.
Sins and lies are like walls built between you and God or others.
Each of the steps has prayers to help you to break down these walls.
So we can be free to love and be closer to God and others.

Before each step is a prayer for that sin or lie:
Submit:                         Surrender to God’s commands for His glory and honor.
Recall:                          Ask God to help you remember sinful thoughts, emotions and actions.
Protect:                         Ask God to provide you safety from satan’s lies and interference.
Resist:                           You then, stand firm against satan so he will flee.

Then it lists:
Specific ways you sin and build walls in this area.
Specific ways to stop sinning and break down these walls.

Confess:                        Admit to God doing something wrong, or sinful, against Him.
Renounce:                    Declare to God and satan to resist and throw off sin.
Repent:                         Commit to change away from sinful thinking, emotions and behaviors
Thank:                          Give God appreciation for forgiveness and the strength to change.
Obey:                            Commit to obey the Bible to follow His teachings for good habits.

The Steps to Freedom in Christ is a longer more detailed document written by Neil T Anderson .
It is recommended for further study available thru Freedom in Christ Ministries www.ficm.org
Steps Outline uses repetition, short sentences, simple words for interpreting and translating.
Dalene Rooks DeGraaf, PhD © 5/2011 Missionary to East Africa www.walkfreeministries.com
Bible verses are from the NIV New International Version by Biblica, Inc of Zondervan Pub 2011

Step 1 Counterfeit vs Real: Overcoming False Guidance with Renunciation

When you became a Christian you learned the truth, but before, all (you) have sinned.
Or you may continue to believe and follow some traditional or Non-Christian beliefs and rituals.
These sins need to be confessed, renounced and repented for you to go into future free.
It is also important for you to learn from the Bible to teach and disciple family and friends.

God said in the Bible, you are to only worship Him.                                                               Ex 20:2,3
God has defeated satan with the blood of Jesus Christ on the cross.                                  Rev 12:11
In Jesus Name you have authority over satan.                                                                      Lk 10:19

Do you trust God and His truth to meet all your needs?

Non-Christian or traditional beliefs and rituals turn to satan for power                                Eph 6:12
Satan is limited in power, his only power is the power of the lie.                                            Jn 8:44
If he can lie and get you to believe it, you will not trust God to meet your needs.                Php 4:19
Then you may turn to satan for power over your fears and problems.

Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                         You have given Your Bible to guide me into all truth.
Recall:                           Bring to my mind any non-Christian beliefs or rituals.
Protect:                        Prevent satan from trying to keep me from worshiping only You.
Resist:                          In the name of Jesus I resist satan keeping me in bondage. Amen.

Traditional beliefs and rituals:                             Bible is the Word of God:                      2 Ti 3:15-17
Supreme being is distant and uncaring.                God loves you He sent His Son.             Jn 3:16.
Worship many gods and many spirits.                   Worship only God.                                  Ex. 20:2,3
Sacrifices and ritual cutting to please spirits.     Jesus only sacrifice ever needed.          Heb. 7:27
Powerless and fears of bewitching and spirits.    In Jesus you have victory.                     1 Co 15:57
Use idols, charms and magic for evil.                   Condemns idols and magic  .                    Eze 13:20
Use witch doctors to fight evil causing illness.    Call the elders to pray.                           Jas 5:14-16
Divination seeks knowledge of future from evil. Discernment seeks will of God.              Ro 12:2
Return curses with curses.                                    Return curses with blessings.                 Lk 6:28

On a separate piece of paper list your past traditional or non-Christian beliefs or rituals.
Pray the prayer below for each way you turned to non-Christian beliefs instead of the Bible.

                                     Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                       I have turned to traditional beliefs and rituals for power from satan.
Renounce:                    I declare to You and satan I will no longer do these things and serve only You
Repent:                        I commit to turn from the sin of turning to traditional beliefs and rituals.
Thank:                        Thank You God for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Obey:                           I commit to learning the Bible to begin teaching and discipleing others.
.                                                                                                             In the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Step 2 Deception vs truth: Overcoming satan’s lies with God’s truth

The truth will set you free.                                                                                                         Jn 8:32
The Bible, is truth.                                                                                                                       Jn 17:17
Jesus came to testify to the truth.                                                                                             Jn 18:37
The Holy Spirit was sent to lead you into truth.                                                                        Jn 16:13

Satan is the father of lies.                                                                                                           Jn 8:44
His only power is in lies: about who you are and who God is.
Statements of Truth on page 9 Are truths from the Bible about who God and satan are.
In Christ on page 10 Are truths from the Bible about who you are since you were recreated in Christ.

                                      Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                        You are truth and I submit to you to walk in truth to be set free.
Recall:                          Help me remember ways I have believed lies.
Protect:                        Prevent satan from trying to keep me from walking in obedience to truth.
Resist:                           In the name of Jesus Christ I resist satan’s lies.. Amen.

Lies of the world: happiness is…                                    Truth of God: Joy is
Seeking your own will.                                                   Obeying God’s will.                                Ps 19:8
Loving and serving yourself.                                           Loving and encouraging others.            Jn 15:11, 12
Money and things.                                                          Generosity.                                            2 Co 9:11
Appearance and sexuality.                                             Modesty and chastity.                           1 Pe 3:3,4
Alcohol, drugs, excess food.                                          Being filled with Holy Spirit.                 Ro 14:17

Lies to yourself:
Knowing the Bible but not doing it.                                Follow God’s commands.                       Ps 19:8
It is okay to be with those who sin.                               Fellowship with believers.                     1 Jn 1:7
Observing sinful things.                                                  Dwell on honorable things.                    Php 4:8

Lies to protect yourself:
Lying.                                                                               Being truthful with self.                       Eph 4:25
Blaming others.                                                               Take responsibility.                               2 Th 3:6-15
Doing too much for others.                                            Teach others responsibility.                  2 Co 8:13

Lies from fears
Fearing death of self or others.                                     Trust God for His place in heaven.       Jn 14:2.3
Fearing illness, pain, suffering.                                       Trust God to be your strength.             2 Cor 12:10
Fearing rejection or abandonment.                                Trust God to never leave you.               Heb 13:5

                                     Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                       I have believed lies from satan, the world and myself.
Renounce:                   I declare to You and satan I believe only Your truth as is in the Bible
Repent:                        I commit to turn from the sin of believing lies.
Thank:                        Thank You for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Obey:                          I will learn truth from the Bible and use discernment for Your Will.
.                                                                                                    In the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Step 3 Bitterness vs Forgiveness

Neil T. Anderson has said forgiveness is the most powerful step. Be slow and complete.

Anger gives satan a foothold, but forgiveness breaks this foothold and sets you free.

In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil (satan) a foothold. Eph 4:,26, 27. Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Co 2:10, 11.

Bitterness gives satan a chance to build walls separating you from God and others.               Eph 4:27
God forgave you all your sins with Jesus’ death and He commands you to forgive others.     Eph 4:32
As Creator He knows how you are made. He knows the damage bitterness causes.                Ps 139
He commanded you to forgive is out of His love and His desire for you to be free.

Do you trust God to give you freedom through forgiveness?

                                         Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                            You have forgiven me through Jesus, I surrender to You and to forgive.
Recall:                              Help me remember those I need to forgive.
Protect:                           Protect me from satan blocking me from obeying You by forgiving
Resist:                             In the name of Jesus I resist satan from keeping me in bitterness. Amen.

Trust God:                      To hold responsible those who have sinned against you.
Forgiveness is:                 Bible command, let go of right to revenge, releases bondage to Satan.
Forgiveness is not:           Making excuses, saying it did not matter, forgetting.
Forgiveness is not:           A feeling or a thought rather an act of will from the heart.
Do not wait until:             The person asks for forgiveness or you “feel like” forgiving.
Reconciliation:                  Requires change in the other person and may not happen.
Forgiveness is:                  To heal your hurt and bring you closer to God and others.

Make three lists on another piece of paper:

WHO WHEN                      WHAT HAPPENED                                HOW IT MADE YOU FEEL
Ex. Parents, family,             Ex. Things that were done or               Ex. Hurt, angry, abandoned,
friends, teachers,                that should have been done                 fearful, anxious, shamed,
yourself, God                       which resulted in hurt and pain.           guilty, shunned.

Repeat the prayer below for each person on the list.

                                     Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                       I did not obey Your command to forgive others as You have forgiven me.
Renounce:                    I declare to You and to satan I choose to forgive these people who hurt me.
Repent:                        I turn from the sin of bitterness in thoughts, emotions and actions.
Thank:                         Thank You for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Obey:                           I will bless and ask You to bless those who have hurt me.
.                                                                                                                 In the Name of Jesus. Amen.

Step 4 Rebellion vs Surrender

Authorities have been placed there by God, so rebellion against authorities is rebelling against God.

The Bible says: Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted. Rom 13:1,2 For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. 1 Sam 15:23

Do you trust God to work through the authorities He has placed in your life?

                                    Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                       You have taught me to surrender and submit to You and authorities.
Recall:                         Help me remember ways I have rebelled against You and others.
Protect:                       Prevent satan from trying to keep me from walking in obedience to surrender.
Resist:                         In the name of Jesus I resist satan from keeping me in rebellion. Amen.

Exceptions to this:
When an authority tells you to do something you know is against God’s law.
Ex. Rwanda: authorities telling people to kill their neighbors.
Ex. When people in authority want you to commit sexual sins, lie or steal.

Most of the time rebellion:
Is not because the authority wants you to do something against God.
Is because the authority wants you to do something against your will.
Is you know what the Bible clearly says, but you do not do it.
Is quiet, you say, “Yes, I will do it.” knowing you will do not do it.

On a separate piece of paper make a list:

WHO, WHEN                                                        WHAT WAYS HAVE YOU REBELLED
Ex. God, pastors,                                                    Ex. disobedience, disrespect,
parents, husbands,                                                 criticism, complaining,
bosses, teachers,                                                      arguing, silence,
laws, instructions,                                                   coveting, comparing,
reject wise advice.

For each person or event pray the prayer below.

                                       Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                         I have rebelled against You and those You have put in authority.
Renounce:                     I declare to You and satan I will not let him tempt me to be rebellious.
Repent:                          I commit to turn from the sin of rebellion in thoughts, emotions and actions.
Thank:                           Thank You for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Obey:                             I will trust You and obey and pray for those You have put in authority.
.                                                                                                           In the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Step 5 Pride or Worthless vs Humility

You should not feel pride or worthless, instead you should humble yourself before God who made you.

Pride is to think more of yourself than you should.
Pride is to forget all your gifts, talents, and possessions are from God.
Pride is to forget what God teaches in the Bible about being humble servants to others.

Worthless is to think less of yourself than you should.
Worthless is to forget you are made in God’s image to do work He planned for you to do.
Worthless is to forget what God teaches in the Bible about who you are In Christ.

Neil T. Anderson defines: Humility is confidence properly placed in God.

God made each of us different because God made different plans and work for each of us. Eph 2:10.
The Bible says: There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body— Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 1 Cor 12: 4-6, 12,13, 15, 16, 18.

Do you trust God to use you exactly the way He made you as His humble servant?

Each person has gifts and talents, a place to work in the church and community.
There is no room for pride, worthless, divisiveness, covetousness, condemnation.

                                       Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                          You commanded me to love and work together as a body for Your kingdom.
Recall:                            Help me to remember ways I thought more or less of myself than I should.
Protect:                          Prevent satan from trying to keep me from walking in obedience to humility.
Resist:                            In the name of Jesus I resist satan from pride or worthless. Amen.

Wanting everyone to do things your way instead being patient for God’s way in God’s timing.
Depending on your own strengths, not letting God show His strength in your weakness.|
Comparing yourself with others as less attractive, less talented, less fortunate, less worthy.

For each area of pride and /or worthless pray the prayer below.

                                         Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                           I have compared myself to others with either pride or worthless.
Renounce:                       I declare to You and to satan to be humble to God and others.
Repent:                            I commit to turn from the sin of comparing: pride or worthless.
Thank:                             Thank You for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Obey:                               I will love, encourage, value, and respect every one.
.                                                                                                       .In the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Step 6 Habitual Sin vs Freedom

In Christ you know you are saints, holy ones, already seated in the heaven-lies.
But you still struggle with sin every day and you get into a sin-confess-sin-confess circle.

Listen to Paul’s struggle Does is sound like your own struggle with sin?

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! Ro 7:15, 18, 19, 24, 25.
Paul is thankful to Jesus Christ because Jesus died once for all of his sins.

                                      Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                         You have forgiven me of all my sins thru Jesus, but I still struggle with sin.
Recall:                           Help me remember ways I have repeatedly sinned against You and others.
Protect:                          Prevent satan from trying to keep me from walking in obedience to freedom.
Resist:                            In the name of Jesus I resist satan from keeping me in bondage to sin. Amen.

Replace habitual sins by doing things to love and become closer to God and others.
Do things you prayed under “Obey” at the end of each step.
Do things that are the virtues related to these sins. (right hand column)
Do things that are in maintaining freedom (page 9)

Do you believe deep in your heart you have been forgiven of all of your sins?

Habitual sins list                                                                                          Good habits
Other steps traditional, lies, bitterness, rebellion, pride/worthless     Glorify God          1 cor 10:31
Greed: worship money, stealing, gambling, coveting, over work.             Generous               2 Cor 9:11
Substances: alcohol, tobacco, drugs, excess food.                                  Filled Holy Spirit  Ro 14:17
Control: anger, rage, abusing others, manipulation, domination              Compassion            Eph 4:31-32
Divisiveness: gossip, complaining, criticizing, condemnation, lying          Peace maker          Ro 12:18
Hopeless: believe helpless, wait for rescue, fantasy not action.            Good works           Eph 2:10
Sexuality: lust, pornography, intimacy outside of marriage.                   Purity                     1 The 4:7

Past or current sexual sins involve forming spiritual soul ties whether they were done to or by you.
You need to break spiritual soul ties with them to be able to walk into the future clean and free.

On a piece of paper make a list of sins you struggle with and spiritual soul ties then for each one pray.

                                      Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                        I have refused to obey Your commands in these areas of my life.
Renounce:                    I declare to You and to satan to no longer turn to sins for power and comfort.
Break:                           I ask You to break all spiritual soul ties with others or bonds of satan to sins.
Repent:                         I commit to turn from these repeated sins in thoughts, emotions and actions.
Thank:                         Thank You for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Thank:                          Thank You for breaking all sexual spiritual soul ties in my life.
Obey:                            I will practice spiritual disciplines of purity, prayer, praise and fellowship.
In the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Step 7 Ancestral sins vs renunciation and breaking generational ties.

The Bible says the effect of sins of ancestors in one generation can be passed to the next:

For I am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. Ex 20:5-6.

The Bible says: Honor your father and your mother. Ex 20:12.
Honor them, but not worship them or their spirits, only worship God.
Admit they have sinned and break any strongholds or spiritual ties satan may have on the family.

                                      Dear Heavenly Father,
Submit:                         You have said the sins of the fathers are passed to the children.
Recall:                           Help me remember ways my family has had patterns of sinning.
Protect:                          Prevent satan from keeping me walking in obedience to break spiritual ties.
Resist:                            In the name of Jesus I resist satan to continue ancestral sins. Amen.

Ancestral sins can include:                                                      Habitual sins from Step 6
Sins covered in all the steps:                                                    6. Greed
1. Non-Christian and traditional beliefs                                  7. Substances
2. Lies and fears                                                                        8. Control
3. Bitterness and unforgiveness                                               9. Divisive
4. Rebellion and arrogance                                                    10. Hopeless helpless
5. Pride and worthless                                                             11. Lust

On a separate piece of paper make a list of ancestral sins then for each sin, pray the prayer below.

                                      Dear Heavenly Father
Confess:                        I and my ancestors have committed sins from one generation to the next.
Renounce:                   I declare to You and to satan to break patterns and spiritual strong holds.
Repent:                        I commit to turn from sins of ancestors in thoughts, emotions and actions.
Thank:                         Thank You for forgiving my sin and for giving me the strength to change.
Thank:                          Thank You for breaking all strongholds and spiritual ties with my ancestors.
Obey:                            I will teach the ways of God and pray for blessings on future generations.
.                                                                                                        In the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Maintaining Freedom

Spiritual Disciplines:                   Christian habits that help maintain freedom and grow in Christ.
Review:                                       Review these pages and prayers when need to confess or forgive again.
The truth:                                    Learn the Bible, memorize In Christ, make list of Bible verses
Time with God:                           Pray expectantly, listen to His voice, practice His presence
Christian Fellowship:                  Belong to a loving supportive church, friends, small group: prayer and study
Resist evil:                                    Take every thought captive to Christ, confess sins, clean life of sinful items.
Use Discernment:                        Agree with Bible, glorify God, use gifts to serve, confirmed mature Christians,
,                                                     Surrender to God’s will, contentment, express love of Jesus Christ, bear fruit.

STATEMENTS OF TRUTH

1. I recognize that there is only one true and living God (Ex 20:2,3) who exists as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He is worthy of all honor, praise and glory as the One who made all things and holds all things together (Col 1: 16, 17).

2. I recognize that Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the Word who became flesh and dwelt among us(Jn 1:1,14). I believe that He came to destroy the works of the devil (1 Jn 3:8), and that He disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public display of them, having triumphed over them (Col 2:15).

3. I believe that God has proven His own love for me because when I was still a sinner, Christ died for me (Ro 5:8). I believe that He has delivered me from the domain of darkness and transferred me to His kingdom, and in Him I have redemption and the forgiveness of sins (Col 1:13,14).

4. I believe that I am now a child of God (1Jn 3:1-3) and that I am seated with Christ in the heavenlies (Eph 2: 6). I believe that I was saved by the grace of God through faith, and that it was a gift and not a result of any works on my part (Eph 2:8,9).

5. I choose to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might (Eph 6:10). I put no confidence in the flesh (Phil 3:3), for the weapons of warfare are not of the flesh but are divinely powerful for the destruction of strongholds (2Cor 10:4). I put on the full armor of God (Eph 6:10-20). I resolve to stand firm in my faith and resist the evil one.

6. I believe that apart from Christ I can do nothing (Jn 15:5), so I declare my complete dependence on Him. I choose to abide in Christ in order to bear much fruit and glorify my Father (Jn 15:8). I announce to Satan that Jesus is my Lord (1Cor 12:3) and I reject any and all counterfeit gifts or works of Satan in my life.

7. I believe that the Truth will set me free (Jn 8:32) and that Jesus is the Truth (Jn 14:6). If He sets me free, I will be free indeed (Jn 8:36). I recognize that walking in the light is the only path of true fellowship with God and man (1Jn 1:3-7). Therefore, I stand against all of Satan’s deception by taking every thought captive in obedience to Christ (2Cor 10:5). I declare that the Bible is the only authoritative standard for truth and life (2Tim 3:15-17).

8. I choose to present my body to God as a living and holy sacrifice (Ro 12: 1) and the members of my body as instruments of righteousness to God (Ro 6: 13). I choose to renew my mind by the living Word of God in order that I may prove that the will of God is good, acceptable and perfect (Ro 12: 2). I put off the old self with its evil practices and put on the new self (Col 3:9,10). I declare myself to be a new creation in Christ (2Cor 5:17).

9. By faith, I choose to be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18) so that I can be guided into all truth (Jn 16:13). I choose to walk by the Spirit so that I will not carry out the desires of the flesh (Gal 5:16).

10. I renounce all selfish goals and choose the ultimate goal of love (1Tim 1:5). I choose to obey the two greatest commandments: to love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength and to love my neighbor as myself (Deut.6:5, Mat 22:37-39).

11 I believe the Lord Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth (Mat 28:18) and that He is the head over all rule and authority. I am complete in Him (Col 2:10). I believe that Satan and his demons are subject to me in Christ since I am a member of Christ’s Body (Eph 1:19-23). Therefore, I obey the command to submit to God and resist the devil (Ja 4:7), and I command Satan in the name of Jesus Christ to leave my presence.

In Christ

I renounce the lie that I am rejected, unloved, dirty or shameful because
IN CHRIST I am completely accepted. God says:

John 1:12                        I am God’s child.
John 15:15                      I am Christ’s friend.
Romans 5:1                    I have been justified.
I Corinthians 6:17          I am united with the Lord and I am one spirit with Him.
I Corinthians 6:19,20     I have been bought with a price, I belong to God.
I Corinthians 12 : 27      I am a member of Christ’s Body.
Ephesians 1:1                  I am a saint, a holy one.
Ephesians 1:5                  I have been adopted as God’s child.
Ephesians 2:18                I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit.
Colossians 1:14               I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins.
Colossians 2:10               I am complete in Christ.

I renounce the lie that I am guilty, unprotected, alone or abandoned because|
IN CHRIST I am totally secure. God says:

Romans 8:1,2                   I am free forever from condemnation.
Romans 8:28                    I am assured that all things work together for good.
Romans 8:31-34              I am free from any condemning charges against me.
Romans 8:35-39               I cannot be separated from the love of God.
2 Corinthians 1:21,22       I have been established, anointed and sealed by God.
Philippians 1:6                  I am confident the good work God has begun in me will be perfected.
Philippians 3:20                I am a citizen of heaven.
Colossians 3:3                    I am hidden with Christ in God.
2 Timothy 1:7                    I have not been given spirit of fear, but of power, love and sound mind
Hebrews 4:16                     I can find grace and mercy to help me in time of need.
I John 5:18                        I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me.

I renounce the lie that I am worthless, inadequate, helpless or hopeless because
IN CHRIST I am deeply significant. God says:

Matthew 5:13,14                I am the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
John 15:1,5                         I am a branch of the true vine, Jesus, a channel of His life.
John 15:16                          I have been chosen and appointed by God to bear fruit.
Acts 1:8                               I am a personal, Spirit-empowered witness of Christ.
I Corinthians 3:16              I am a temple of God.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21         I am a minister of reconciliation for God.
2 Corinthians 6:1                I am God’s co-worker.
Ephesians 2:6                      I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm.
Ephesians 2:10                     I am God’s workmanship, created for good works.
Ephesians 3:12                    I may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Philippians 4:13                  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

I am not the great “I Am” of Exodus 3:14; John 8:24,28, 58.
“but by the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Corinthians 15:10).

The Steps to Freedom in Christ by Neil T Anderson available thru www.ficm.org
Steps Outline adapted by Dalene Rooks DeGraaf, PhD © 5/2011
For a printer friendly copy email me at dalenedegraaf@yahoo.com
I apologize for the irregular columns WordPress does not have a “tab” function.

Many of you will recall I wrote “The VISION”
My plan of what would happen this year in East Africa.
# of trainings, # of participants, # of testimonies….
I had a planed conferences each month: two or three.

For various reasons the number has been closer to one.
Feelings: unproductive, failure, wasteful of resources>
Distracted by all the preparations, worried and upset.
Last month things were improving as there were two>
Finally, this month my plan was for three. My plan …

Two weeks ago, potentially dangerous demonstrations
This week, demonstrations became riots.
Resulting in cancellations of two trainings.

I looked back at the past months . . .
Far less accomplishments than I had planned.
Far fewer conferences than I had planned.
Far less productive than I had planned.

A friend had asked on facebook chat>
If I thought God was proud of me.
I felt so inadequate I cried.

Late Friday, I recalled there was a KIC retreaT.
About forty minutes away from the troubles in Kampala
Where I thought things would be a bit safer.

“An Oasis on the Journey” by John n Karen Zilen
Today’s lesson Luke 10:38-42
Was on our self-expectations to be Martha’s
But the Lord Jesus desiring us to be Mary’s
Martha was distracted by all the preparations
And worried and upset about many things,
While Mary has chosen what is better and
Sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.

And Jesus
Even tho he only had three years to minister.
Even tho he was God omnipotent.
Even tho he had a perfect relationship with God.
Often with drew to lonely places and prayed.
Luke 5:15-16
And told his disciples after ministry:
Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place
And get some rest. Mark 6:31-32

So I once again reflected upon the past months
This time letting go of my counting . . .
# of trainings, # of participants, # of testimonies..
I looked at the gift of time to chosen a better way
I looked at the gift of time to sit at His feet.
I looked at the gift of time to read His Word.
I looked at the gift of time to hear His voice.
I looked at the gift of time to see His images.
I looked at the gift of time to receive ministry
I looked at the gift of time to attend retreats.

I looked at the gift of time to write . . .
About how forgiveness heals chronic pain,
About how God’s Light Dispels the Darkness,
About God’s Word to have a Relationship.
About God Conquers Fatalism and Helplessness.
Email prayers of comfort and encouragement,
Email prayers for healing of body and soul,.

It is difficult to articulate
How much growth, maturity and healing
Has taken place in these months.

It is difficult to articulate
How much more clearly I hear His voice.
How much more easily I see His visions.
I notice it most when I do my trainings
Because they are empowered by His Spirit.
Because they are more transformative.
Because they prompt more tears.

I have not let go of my goals to do trainings.
I have not let go of encouraging testimonies.

But the presenter at the retreat said
You can’t write to your partners about this
Because they want to hear about accomplishments.
They don’t want ot hear about your sitting at Jesus feet.

I thought . . . He does not know my partners.
My family, friends and partners
Would understand
How God might decide to change
My Martha plans into a Mary process.

Addendum:
I received over twenty emails and over 10 facebook comments
All of them affirming the need to make to to be Mary
Before one can ever be effective as a Martha.
It resonated with many as something they need to consider more.

Dalene DeGraaf
Missionary to East Africa
Set Free Ministries.

A Freedom Appointment, also called Discipleship Counseling,
Is a structured series of prayers
Which allow the ministry recipient to systematically address
Areas of spiritual bondage in the past.
Things that keep them from being close to God and others.
So they can walk in freedom into the future.
Knowing and living their renewed Identity in Christ.

A typical prayer session can take between four and eight hours.
A ministry recipient is joined by two trained volunteers.
The encourager explains the steps and  the prayers.
The prayer partner prays and listens for guidance  from the Holy Spirit

Seven Steps to Freedom in Christ

Overcoming False Guidance with Renunciation
Overcoming Deception with Truth
Overcoming Bitterness with Forgiveness
Overcoming Rebellion with Submission
Overcoming Pride with Humility
Overcoming Habitual Sin with Surrender
Overcoming Ancestral Sin with Blessings

Bitterness to Forgiveness   The most powerful step.

The recipient prays to ask the Holy Spirity to bring to mind
Those they need to forgive and begins to make a list …
The encourager goes over some teaching.
What forgiveness is:
A Biblical mandate, releases bondage to Satan, live with consequences.
What forgiveness is not:
A Rationalization, forgetting, a feeling, a thought, reconciliation.
Forgiveness is an act of the will
Like choosing Jesus as Savior and Lord is an act of the will.

The lists look like this:

Who / when           What happened               Feelings/lies
ex. parents            ex. abuse                          ex. shame
others                    abandonment                  anger, rage
yourself                  gossip                               hurt, anguish
God                        anything hurtful             “I am unlovable”

Lord Jesus,  I choose to forgive (name the person)
for  (what he or she did or failed to do)
because it made me feel  (angry, bitter ashamed.)
Lord Jesus, I choose not to hold on to my resentment,
I relinquish my right  to seek revenge.
I ask you to heal my damaged emotions.
Thank you for setting me free from the bondage of  bitterness.
I now ask you to bless those who have hurt me.
In Jesus name I pray.  Amen.

God’s Light to Dispel the Darkness of Animism: A Biblical response to traditional beliefs and rituals

In the beginning                                        Ge 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
God created light.                                     Ge 1:3 And God said, “Let there be light.” and there was light.
Before He created sources of light;           Ge 1:16 God made two great lights — the greater light to govern the
The sun, the moon, and the stars,               day, the lesser light to govern the night. He made also stars.T
He created light because He is light.         1 Jn 1:5 God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all.
In heaven, God and Christ are the light.      Rev 21:23 For the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
In heaven, there will be no more night,       Rev 22:5 There will be no more night. They will not need the light of
Only God’s heavenly light.                          a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light.

On earth darkness  is in hearts of men       Jn 3:19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men
Because many continue to disobey God.       loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

Traditional beliefs and rituals continue to be followed by twenty five percent of Christians in Africa (Pew 2010)

The Bible teaches

Darkness came into the world through Adam.
God created Adam and Eve good.                .Ge 1:27 So God created mankind … male and female he created them.
God commanded they not eat of the fruit    Ge 2:17 “You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and
Of the tree of Knowledge of good and evil.  evil, for when you eat from it you will surely die.”
Satan tempted them to eat the core sin:     Rev 20:2 the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or satan,

“You will be like God.”                              Ge 3:5 “you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
We are like God, made in His image.        Ge 1:26 Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness.
But mortals (people) are not God or gods.   Eze 28:2 In the pride of your heart you say, ”I am god.”… but you are
We do not have God’s wisdom.                   a mere mortal not a god, though you think you are as wise as a god.
Through the sin of Adam all have sinned.    1 Co 15:21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the
Through Christ is resurrection of dead      dead comes also through a man.
In Christ all believers will be made alive. 1 Co 12:22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
Christ will  return for those who believe.  1 Co 15:23 when he comes, (for) those who belong to him.

In traditional beliefs: the supreme being is distant, uncaring, and uninvolved in our personal affairs.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
God continues to seek us.
God turns our darkness into light.             Ps 18:28 God turns my darkness into light.
God gave us the Law as light.                    Ps 19:8 The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
God gave us His Word as light.                 Ps 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
God gave us His Son as light.                    Jn 1:4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.|
God gave us the task to be light.                 Mt 5:14, 16 You are the light of the world. Let your light shine.
God wants us to earnestly pursue light.      Lk 11:35 See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness.
God gave us the role to be light:                 Ac 26:17, 18 I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn
To turn them from darkness to light,         them from darkness to light, and from the power of satan to God, so that
To show them the Way to be forgiven,       and they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who
To show them how to have faith in Jesus. are sanctified by faith in me.

Traditional beliefs and rituals have been passed down through generations in almost every culture in the world.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
The Word of God is light.                         Ps 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Scriptures are written by humans.           2 Pe 1:21 For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but
Scriptures are inspired by Holy Spirit    prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along
Scriptures are the very Word of God:      by the Holy Spirit.
To teach us the ways of God                     2 Ti 3:15-17 The Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for
To give salvation through faith in Christ,  salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed
To teach us how to live holy lives,             and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in
To equip us for ministry, righteousness   so that you, a man of God may be thoroughly equipped
To encourage us to do good works.            for every good work.

In traditional beliefs there are: many gods, many spirits of ancestors and things to be pleased or worshiped.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
God is the only one God.                            Ro 3:30 There is only one God.
We are not to worship any other gods.      Ex 20:2, 3 I am the Lord your God. You shall have no other gods.
A Holy Trinity One God three Persons:    Mt 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.                    them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

God, the Father, is the one true God          Eph 4:6 One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all
God is over all.                                         and in all.
God is the creator.                                   Col 1:16 In him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth.
God is the sustainer.                                 Col 1:17 In him all things hold together.
God is over all nature.                               Job 25:2 God is in control and rules the heavens. (CEV)
God is over all humans.                              Jer 32:27 I am the LORD, the God of all mankind.
God is over all evil spirits.                       Rev 12:11 They triumphed him (the evil one) by the blood of the Lamb.

Jesus is God’s one and only son.                Jn 3:18 God’s one and only Son.
Jesus is the only Way.                              Jn 14:6 I am the way, and the truth and the life no one comes
Jesus is the truth and the life.                  to the Father but by me.
Jesus is the light of the world.                 Jn 8:12 I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never
Jesus calls us to leave darkness.               walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Jesus has authority from the Father.        Mt 28:18 All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Jesus is our example.                               Jn 13:15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done.
Jesus is our Savior.                                 Lk 2:11 a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
Jesus is our forgiveness of sins.              Lk 1:77 salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.
Jesus reconciles us with the Father.        2 Co 5:18 God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ.
Jesus intercedes for us to the Father.       Heb 7:25 He (Jesus) always lives to intercede for them.

In traditional beliefs there is still need for sacrifices and rituals to please spirits of ancestors or other beings.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
We are not to worship other gods.             2 Ki 17:35 Do not worship any other gods or bow down to them,
We are not to sacrifice to other gods.       serve them or sacrifice to them.
Jesus’ Blood the only sacrifice for all sin. Heb 7:27 He sacrificed for their sins once for all.
Jesus sent to the world to die for our sins Jn 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son
So those who believe in Him will live.       that who so ever believe in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Salvation is through faith,  a gift of God.   Eph 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this
We receive by believing in and following..  is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.

Jesus gave us The Great Commandments:   Mk 12:30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your
To love God,                                               soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.
To love others.                                           Mk 12:31 Love your neighbor as yourself.
Jesus gave us The Great Commission:        Mt 28:19, 20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing
To go and make disciples,                           them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
To teach obedience, and                             and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And
To trust in His presence.                          surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Jesus is The Great Physician.                   Mt 4:23 healed every disease and sickness.
Jesus sent us Holy Spirit.                         Jn 16:7 I will send him to you.

Holy Spirit is the only one Spirit of God.  1 Co 12:13 One Spirit so as to form one body.
Holy Spirit speaks the Father’s words.     Jn 16:13 He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears.
Holy Spirit goes from the Father.             Jn 15:26 the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will
Holy Spirit testifies about the Son         . testify about me.
Holy Spirit reminds us of Jesus words     Jn 14:26 will remind you of everything I have said to you.
Holy Spirit convicts us of sin.                 Jn 16:8 He will prove the world wrong about sin.
Holy Spirit guides us to truth.         Jn 16:13 the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into truth.
Holy Spirit teaches us what to say. Lk 12:12 Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say
Holy Spirit empowers us.                 Ac 1:8 receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will
Holy Spirit enables us to be witnesses.     be my witnesses.
Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness.        Ro 8:26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do
Holy Spirit intercedes for us.                   not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes
Holy Spirit prays for us.                           for us through wordless groans.

Holy Spirit is given to those who ask.     . Lk 11:13 Father in heaven [will] give the Holy Spirit to those who ask.
Holy Spirit gives us  Gifts of the Spirit:  1 Co 12:7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for
Manifestations: wisdom, knowledge,         the common good.
Faith, healing, miraculous powers,            1 Co 12:8-10 (wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miraculous powers,
Prophesy, distinguishing spirits,               prophesy, distinguishing spirits, speaking in tongues, interpretation of
Speaking and interpretation of tongues     .tongues.)
Holy Spirit gives us Fruit of the Spirit.   Gal 5:22, 23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance,
Love joy, peace, patience, kindness,.         kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Holy Spirit is the power against evil.      Mt 12:28 it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons.

In traditional beliefs there is a concern about many spiritual beings, of ancestors and objects that are evil.
In contrast, the Bible teaches
There are other spiritual powers,            Eph 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the
There are other forces,                            and rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world
They are aligned with the evil one.           and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
The evil one, or satan, is a fallen angel.    Rev 12:9 Satan who leads the whole word astray. He was hurled down to
Demons are angels who follow satan         the earth, and his angels with him.
Demons do perform signs.                        Rev 16:14 They are demonic spirits that perform signs,
The evil one pretends to be light.              2 Co 11:14 For Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
The evil one is a liar and father of lies.    Jn 8:44 for he is a liar the father of lies.
Do not believe every spirit.                      1 Jn 4:1, 2 do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see
Test spirits to see if from the evil one.    whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out
If they are from God, they will say           into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every
Jesus Christ is God’s Son.                      Spirit that acknowledges Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God.

In traditional beliefs and there is a powerlessness against bewitching, curses and spiritual beings.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
Remember that God gives us victory         1 Co 15:57 Thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord
Through Jesus Christ.                              Jesus Christ.
Remember Jesus keeps believers safe      .1 Jn 5:18 the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil
So the evil one cannot harm believers.       one cannot harm them.
God gives us authority over the enemy:      Lk 10: 19 given you authority… to overcome all the power of the enemy.
First. submit to God.                                 Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will
Then, resist the evil one and he will flee.   flee from you.
Ask the Lord for protection from evil.       2 Th 3:3 He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

Put on the full armor of God                       Eph 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand
Against the evil one’s plans.                      against the devil’s schemes.
Be strong in the Lord’s strength, not own. :10 be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Put on Truth of Jesus and Holy Spirit.      :14 with the belt of truth buckled around your waist,
Follow commandments to be righteous.       :14 with the breastplate of righteousness in place
Stand on peace know the Good News.          :15 with your feet fitted with… readiness …from the gospel of peace
Put on faith to block the lies of satan.         :16 the shield of faith, extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil
one.
Protect the mind with the gift of salvation. :17 the helmet of salvation,
Use the Word of God an offensive weapon.  :17 the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Pray continually with Holy Spirit,.             :18 pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers.
Be alert do not be passive or ignorant.        :18 be alert and always keep praying.

The Bible tells how to defeat the evil one.   .Rev 12:11 They triumphed him (the evil one)
The evil one was defeated by Jesus death.    by the blood of the Lamb and
The evil one is defeated by our testimony.    by the word of their testimony;
The evil one is defeated by not fear death.   they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.
The evil one is defeated by God’s Word.      Eph 6: 17 the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Tell your testimony against the evil one.    1 Pe 3:15 Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks
Give others hope in Christ.                        you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
Speak God’s Word from within you            1 Jn 2:14 the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the
To overcome the evil one.                           evil one.
Jesus used words of Isaiah when tempted  .Mt 4:1-11 Jesus answered, “It is written …”
Speak the name of Jesus against evil.        Mk 16:17 In my name they will drive out demons.

In traditional beliefs there is use of idols, charms, and magic turning to evil for power over circumstances.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
There is an end for those who do magic.   Rev 21:8 those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they
They will be in hell.                                  will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur.
The Bible explicitly condemns idolatry.    Isa 42:17 But those who trust in idols, who say to images, ‘You are
our
They will be shamed.                                 gods,’ will be turned back in utter shame.
The Bible explicitly condemns magic.   Eze 13:20 the sovereign LORD says: I am against your magic charms
They will have God against them.             with  which you ensnare people.

In traditional beliefs one uses seers, sorcerers and witch doctors to fight curses and evil spirits causing illnesses.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
Not to see sorcerers or witch doctors     .Dt 18:10 divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft,
False seers are a source of shame.            Mic 3:7 The seers will be ashamed and the diviners disgraced.
Jesus is The Great Physician.                   Mat 4:23 healing every disease and sickness among the people.
If we are sick, call the church elders.       Jas 5:14-16 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of
Pray and anoint in the name of the Lord.    the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of
The prayer in faith will make him well.     the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well;
Because the Lord will raise them up.         the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.
Confess your sins one to another.              Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so
Pray for each other so you may be healed.  that you may be healed.
God forgives sins and heals diseases.        Ps 103:3 forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.

In traditional beliefs one uses divination to determine the will of evil or ancestral spirits to plan for the future.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
Divination is wrong.                                Lev 19:26 Do not practice divination or seek omens.
Divination is deception of the evil one.     Jer 29:8 Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you.
Paul cast a demon out of a diviner.             Ac 16:18 “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of
Using the Name of Jesus Christ.               her.” At that moment the spirit left her.
Christians should use discernment.           Ro 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be
Discernment is seeking God’s will.           transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test
Seeking His best will for your life.           and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
If your earnestly seek discernment.          Pr 2:3, 4 If you cry out for discernment, … if your seek her NKJV
God will give you understanding,               Pr 2:5 Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the
God will give you knowledge of His will.   knowledge of God.

Discernment guidelines:
It must agree with the Word of God.        Heb 4:12 The Word of God …is a discerner of thoughts. NKJV
It must Glorify God.                                 1 Co 10:31 whatever you do, do all for the glory of God.
It must use your gifts to serve others.      1 Pe 4:10 use whatever gift you have received to serve others.
It is confirmed by mature Christians.       1 Co 14:29 the others should weigh carefully what is said.
It is in surrender to God’s will.               1 Jn 5:14 if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.
It must include aspects of contentment.     Php 4:11 be content whatever the circumstances.
It must express the love of Jesus Christ.  Jn 15:12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.
It will come to pass or bear fruit.             Dt 18:22 If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not
.                                                                take place or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken.

In traditional beliefs there is continued fear of angry spirits, bewitching or evil eye.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
To fear the Lord means to revere him.      Ps 33:8 fear the Lord, let all the people of the world revere him.
God is not an angry God to be feared.         Ps 86:15 You Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger.
God is love.                                               1 Jn 4:8 God is love.
We express love for God with obedience.  Jn 14:23 Any one who loves me will obey my teaching.
We express love for God by loving others. 1 Jn 4:11 Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
Perfect love casts out fear.                        1 Jn 4:18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.
We should not to be anxious                      Php 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by
Instead we should pray and give thanks.    prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Jesus said we should not worry.              Mt 6:33, 34 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all
Jesus said first seek His righteousness . these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry.
Holy Spirit dispels fear,                          2 Ti 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid (fearful),
Holy Spirit replaces with power, love       but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

In traditional beliefs one seeks to have power and there is power in evil, but that is aligning with satan.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
God is all powerful. He is omnipotent.      Rev 19:1 Salvation and glory and power belong to our God,
Jesus gave us power and authority.          Mt 10:1 Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them
So we can resist.                                     authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.
Jesus gave us power over evil.                 Lk 10:19 I have given you authority … to overcome all the power of the
So nothing will harm us.                           enemy; nothing will harm you.

In traditional beliefs curses and evil eye lead people to retaliate with curses and evil of their own.

In contrast, the Bible teaches
Do not curse parents.                                Ex 21:17 Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.
Do not curse rulers.                                  Ex 22:28 Do not blaspheme Godor cursethe ruler of your people
Do not repay evil with evil.                       1 Pe 3:9 Do not repay evi lwith evil or insult with insult. On the
Instead, repay evil with blessing.             contrary, repay evil with blessing.
In this way overcome evil with good.         Ro 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Bless and pray for those who curse.           Lk 6:28 Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

Anger gives the evil one a foothold.           Eph 4:,26, 27 In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while
Do not go to bed if you are still angry.       you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.
Instead cancel anger with forgiveness.     2 Co 2:10, 11 Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have
In Christ, God forgave us.                         forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight
In Christ, we are commanded to forgive.   of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For
Forgiveness fights the evil one.                 we are not unaware of his schemes.

.

Summary:
The people of Africa are very religious                                Jesus died on The Cross to defeat the evil one
They are very aware of spiritual realities                            Jesus gave us The Great Commandments
They need to learn how to test the spirits                             Jesus gave us The Great Commission
Traditional beliefs and rituals                                              Jesus is The Great Physician
Try to influence spirits aligned with the evil one                  Holy Spirit gives us The Gifts
Through divination, sacrifices, and magic                             Holy Spirit gives us The Fruit
To fight against curses, bewitching and evil eye                   Holy Spirit gives us The Power
The forces of evil give fears                                                We give Glory to God
The forces of evil give darkness                                           We give Compassion to others
The forces of evil give condemnation                                    We give Thanks in all circumstances
The Bible says to resist evil                                                 Instead of divination—discernment
The Bible says to give our testimony                                    Instead of anger–forgiveness
The Bible says to put on the Armor of God                            Instead of darkness—light
God gave us Life                                                                   Instead of curse–bless
God gave us Light                                                                 Instead of lies–truth
God gave us His Son                                                             Instead of fear–love

Unless otherwise indicated all verses are from the NIV New International Version
by Biblica, Inc of Zondervan Pub 2011
NKJV New King James Version by Thomas Nelson Pub 1982
CEV Contemporary English Version by The American Bible Society 1995
Pew Forum report Islam and Christianity in Sub-Saran Africa 2010

http://pewforum.org/newassets/images/reports/sub-saharan-africa/sub-saharan-africa-full-report.pdf

Dalene Rooks DeGraaf, PhD
Missionary Set Free Ministries: East Africa © 3/2011
If you have questions or comments or would like a printer friendly form of this document
please email me at   dalenedegraaf@yahoo.com

I believe…
In a triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Father: omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, omni-loving, omni-righteous,
Abba Father of us all, who sent His Son.
Jesus Christ, is the Son of God: fully divine yet fully human.
Who came to personify love.
Who came to testify to the truth.
Who came to live without sin to show us how to live.
Who came to die as a substitutionary atonement for all our sins.
Who came to be raised again so we may to be raised with Him one day.
Who came to become the only Way to the Father and the only Way to everlasting life.
Who came to give salvation to those who believe on Him, a gift by grace thru faith not that any man should boast.
Holy Spirit: counselor, guide, convicts us of sin, empowerer to witness, spiritual gift giver, intercessor for us.
I believe prayer changes things in the spiritual realm, our circumstances, our perspectives, our dependance on God.
I believe God still speaks to His people today if we listen expectantly and use careful discernment.
I believe in the inerrancy of Scripture for teaching, correcting, and training in righteousness.
I believe our struggle is not against circumstances or humans, but against evil spiritual forces in heavenly realms.
I believe we, as Christians, have authority over the evil one, which we too often do not utilize.
evil one: the enemy, the father of lies, the deceiver, who prowls around to see whom he can devour.
The evil one will be defeated by the blood of the Lamb, the Word of God, and the word of our testimony.
I believe God made us with purposes:
To love God with our whole self and to love others as our self.
To Glorify God, to become Christ-like, to fellowship with believers, to minister to others, to intercede.
To preach good news to the poor, set the captives free, heal the broken hearted, care for widows and children.
To make disciples of all nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit and teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded, knowing He will be with us to the end of the age.

Dalene Rooks DeGraaf, RN PhD
Missionary  Set Free Ministries East Africa

http://www.setfreeministries.com/GlobalOutreach/Africa/DaleneDeGraaf.aspx

The VISION God has placed on my heart
Go to Kampala, Uganda.
Empower women of East Africa to become encouragers.
Train them to take their peers thru the Steps To Freedom
Give women a voice to tell and write their testimonies.
Internet community with website

http://walkfreeministries.com

Coordinate with Rev. Emmanuel Kabambi
Director of Set Free Ministries East Africa

The Need:        The “Blood line”

There is a “blood line” running across Africa.
Above the line
is mostly Muslim
funded by the oil monies of the middle east.
Below the line
is mostly Christian
funded by the monies of United States and Europe.
Woven in the line
is much Occult
rooted in history and tradition of Africa.

Along the line the Muslims build Mosques
Even  before there are people to fill them.
They come preaching their message of hatred of Christians
And  the white men who teach about Christ.
Soon the Mosques are filled with converts
And the “blood line” moves south once again.

However, In Rakai, where Set Free Ministries
Has been teaching Christians
About freedom, truth and love.
The people asked the Muslim propagandists
“What are you teaching.?”
And the Muslims replied
with their lies and hatred about Christians.
The Christians in Rakai responded
“We have met the white man.
He has taught us about freedom, truth and love.
You come teaching about hatred and distention.
You come bringing darkness.
We don’t want you here.
We are followers of truth and light.”
The Muslims left.
And the Mosques remain empty.

Woven into the line and through out much of Africa
The Occult remains a major influence
Even among Christians.
When Christianity does not directly address
Spiritual warfare or the power of the Holy Spirit,
People are left to address spiritual concerns for power
With spiritists or witch doctors.
Set Free Ministries addresses these issues directly
In its teachings and in its implementation.
So the people have authority and tools to address
Spiritual Warfare.
They can disciple others in the power and authority
Of the Holy Spirit.

THE VISION         Disciple women in Freedom Principles

Set Free Ministries to go along the “blood line”.
Teaching repentance confession and forgiveness:
Freedom Principles.
So the people can stand firm in the onslaught of darkness.
Provided by the teachings of Set Free Ministries.
The resistance of the evil one
And the authority and power of the Holy Spirit.

Men, pastors and other leaders
Have been taught Freedom Principles
By Set Free Ministry from the United States:
Dean VanderMey,, Jeff Stam, Paul Tammeling
And by the Set Free Ministries Director for East Africa
Rev. Emmanual Kabambi
Trainings for men could be extended by Rev. Emmanual Kabambi
Thru out Uganda and into surrounding East Africa.

My part of THE VISION would be to teach the women
Along the “blood line”
About Freedom in Christ.
About a new identity.
About repentance, confession and forgiveness.
Training women who are leaders in their churches.
To do Freedom Appointments
With other women.
So they know the bondage they are in:
Is not from the men who abuse them,
Is not from the poverty they live in,
Is not from the disease that infects them,
The bondage is from the evil one.
And Jesus Christ has over come evil and darkness
With truth and love.
And they can participate with Christ
Through repentance, confession and forgiveness.
There by resisting the evil one
So he will flee.
Thus releasing the power of the Holy Spirit.
To heal their land.

Trainings

in three to five days:
Introductory didactic outline of each Step
A testimony specific to the Step.  Rev. 12:11
A role play demonstration of the Step.
An opportunity to receive a Freedom  Appointment
An opportunity to be a prayer partner
An opportunity to be an encourager
Testimony writing and telling session
Follow up: Email contact for discipleship.
Website:  http://walkfreeministries.com
Teach leaders of past trainings
how to do trainings themselves.

The Goals:        Trainings, Testimonies, Website

The VISION  is to not only be an encourager of women
The VISION is to also empower women to be encouragers.
Jesus did not commission us to go make followers.
Jesus commissioned us to go make disciples.
Follower: one who ascribes to the teachings of another.
Disciple: one who embraces
And assists in spreading the teachings of another.

Teach women to do their own Freedom Appointments.
Teach women to give their own testimony.
Teach women to be lights in the darkness.
To set others free.
To defeat the evil one.
To disciple others.

Norah is an excellent example.
She went to the training Jeff and Paul did in Soroti.
She has done at least ten Freedom Appointments.
She has interpreted for other women my testimony.
She is writing her own testimony
And encouraging others to write theirs.
The VISION is to train hundreds of Norah’s.
Who will in turn train…..

The website http://walkfreeministries.com  To provide
Continuing access to the trainers and graduated trainees
I-community to discuss challenges of being an encourager
RSS feed for continuing education.

Measurable goals:

#   of trainings.
#  of trainees.
#  of Freedom Appointments to trainees.
#  of Freedom Appointments by trainees.
#  of Testimonies written by trainees.
#  of Testimonies written by trainees FA recipients
#   of trainings by trainees . . . .
#   of hits on website.
#   of RSS feeds sent out by website.
#   of training requests.
Goal : 1000 testimonies by trainees and recipients

The Setting    Kampala, Uganda extending thru East Africa

Kampala is where Rev. Emmanuel Kabambi is living and serving
Davis Omanyo of CRWRC East Africa offered shared office space
and would like to collaborate with Set Free Ministries
in the 1500 churches CRWRC is affiliated with.
There is a woman working for CRWRC who may rent a house
There are international churches in the area with small groups
for a supportive growing community.

The office for discipleship training and mentoring encouragers
The location central to East Africa for outreach trainings
Davis Omanyo’s wife, a Physical Therapist, there may be opportunity
for evangelism and training with other health care professionals

SFM already has 8 initiatives in Kenya and Uganda
There are other links in Sudan, Liberia, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda. Tanzania  along “the bloodline”…. …
the need is endless until Christ comes.

If you are called  to Join in the VISION contact

http://SetFreeMinistries.com

Donations: Payable to Set Free Ministries
700 36th St SE Grand Rapids 49548   616 726 5400

visit my website:  http://walkfreeministries.com
for trained encouragers in doing freedom appointments

Friend me on Facebook::  Dalene DeGraaf
pictures of the trip to Uganda
post prayer requests.

Email:   dalenedegraaf@yahoo.com

Dalene Rooks DeGraaf, RN PhD
Missionary, Psychologist, Nurse

The Word of God makes
Confession and repentance a cornerstone of making us right with God.
It is an integral part of becoming born again:
We confess our sins,
Believe in Jesus death and resurrection as payment for our sins,
Commit to living with Christ as Lord of our lives,
And we are saved.: Salvation

Thereafter,
Confession clears away lies and distractions
In our walk with the Lord.
“If we confess our sins,
He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins
And purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9 NIV: Sanctification

For this reason confession is the first in the Steps to Freedom.

The question is sometimes raised….
Why can’t I just do this in private?
Why do I need to do it with an encourager or prayer partner present?

There is Biblical support for public confession.
“Make this your common practice:
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other
So that you can live together whole and healed.
The prayer of a person living right with God
Is something powerful to be reckoned with.”
James 5:15-17 Message.

The evil one likes to work in secret.
he likes to keep us in the dark.
But the Bible says…
“He who conceals his sins does not prosper,
But whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”
Prov 28:d13 NIV

Testimony:
A couple of years ago,
I suddenly began experiencing:
Intrusive, negative, sinful thoughts.
They were unlike my usual sinful thoughts,
In their frequency, intensity and duration.
For several days I could not get them out of my mind.
They were there as I went to bed
They were there as I got up.
They were there as I worked.

Finally I confessed my thoughts out loud to a Christian friend.
It was as though something CRACKED in the spirit world
The confession broke the power of the sin.
I was free of the thoughts.
I was free of the guilt.
I was free of the shame
May the Lord be praised,
For His promised Freedom from guilt and sin.

Dalene

Can you keep a secret?

Maintaining confidentiality is imperative in Freedom Ministry.*
Recipients are disclosing the most sensitive, private aspects of their lives.
Their sins and failings,
Their hurts and pains,
Their generational sins.
Their unspoken dreams.
They need to have complete trust in the encourager to maintain privacy.

Recall for a moment the last time someone broke your trust….
How did it feel?
What did you think?
What did you want to do?
How long did it take to trust them again?
How long did it take to trust others again?

Once trust is broken …. it is gone.
It damages the recipient.
It damages your ability to ever minister again.
It damages the ability of others to minister again.
It damages the ministry as a whole.

Some specific examples….

Be careful when giving examples of those you have helped in the past,
That you not give information so someone might guess who it is.

Be careful when running into someone in public,
That you not ask how things have gone since their Freedom Appointment.

Be careful with notes, phone numbers, and addresses,
That you not have confidential information where it can be found.

Be careful when someone’s name comes up in conversation,
That you do not act as though you recognize their name.

Be careful if asked if you have done a Freedom Appointment for someone,
That you do not acknowledge either yes or no.

I ask again…. Can you keep a secret?  Search your heart.

Clearly explain confidentiality to recipients

Shred any paperwork related to the appointment
In the presence of the recipient.

When explaining confidentiality to recipients
be sure to explain the exceptions to confidentiality.

* Exceptions to Confidentiality:

In the case of imminent danger to self or others
confidentiality must be broken
and the proper authorities notified.

In the case of consultation and supervision
within the ministry
confidentiality may be broken
but only necessary details for supervision
with identifying information kept private as possible.

Confidentiality Agreement for Set Free Ministries.

I understand that my role is to offer a listening ear, encouragement, words of grace and or prayer support and love to those seeking ministry.

I understand that in fulfilling my role I will be aware of information which is extremely personal and confidential to the ministry recipient and ministry team.

I understand that though I may not be bound by a professional code of conduct I am bound by a Bibilical code of justice, morality and love.  Therefore, I will not under any circumstances divulge or share with anyone, other than the SFM leadership team member, what has been shared with me by a ministry recipient.  Nor will I divulge the name of any ministry recipient to anyone.  To do so would destroy the support and ministry I am attempting to provide in Jesus name.