Experience the Vision!
Again this fall, Kingdom Boundaries will be hosting a banquet to celebrate what God has done over the last 8 years. In addition, we will present KB’s vision for the future. It is exciting!
It would be great if you could plan on attending this year's banquet. We look forward to seeing you, and please feel free to invite others including friends, neighbors, and family. We feel that all attending will be excited to learn what is and what will be happening in the future at KB.
When: Monday September 13
Where: New Life Reformed church, Sioux Center Iowa
232 16th St SE, Sioux Center, IA 51250
Time: Doors open at 5:00pm There will be time to visit with staff, residents, and other friends of KB. Also, this is when the silent auction will occur.
It would be great if you could plan on attending this year's banquet. We look forward to seeing you, and please feel free to invite others including friends, neighbors, and family. We feel that all attending will be excited to learn what is and what will be happening in the future at KB.
When: Monday September 13
Where: New Life Reformed church, Sioux Center Iowa
232 16th St SE, Sioux Center, IA 51250
Time: Doors open at 5:00pm There will be time to visit with staff, residents, and other friends of KB. Also, this is when the silent auction will occur.
The meal will be at 6:00 with the program to follow. The program will consist of testimonials, a ministry update which includes the vision to expand by building a new facility. Lastly, there will be a live auction.
Thank you for your interest.
Jeff & Rhonda Haverhals
Jeff & Rhonda Haverhals
August 12th, 2021
The following was written by George, a former resident of Kingdom Boundaries
"Brokenness"
Brokenness leads us to repentance...
Godly sorrow helps us be humble...
Brokenness shatters our sinful Pride...
God lifts us up when we stumble...
Brokenness helps us turn to Jesus...
We realize He is the only way...
Brokenness releases the chains which bind us...
Our freedom in Christ helps us each day...
------------------------------------------
I'm a broken man with a troubled past...
But Jesus saved me. I am free at last!
I'm a broken man but Jesus makes me whole...
His Spirit guides me as He sanctifies my soul!
------------------------------------------
Jesus, Break Me of my selfishness inside...
Jesus, Break me of my chauvinistic Pride!
Jesus, Break me! Help me cry like a man!
Jesus, Break Me! On my knees, I will stand!
Brokenness leads us to repentance...
Godly sorrow helps us be humble...
Brokenness shatters our sinful Pride...
God lifts us up when we stumble...
Brokenness helps us turn to Jesus...
We realize He is the only way...
Brokenness releases the chains which bind us...
Our freedom in Christ helps us each day...
------------------------------------------
I'm a broken man with a troubled past...
But Jesus saved me. I am free at last!
I'm a broken man but Jesus makes me whole...
His Spirit guides me as He sanctifies my soul!
------------------------------------------
Jesus, Break Me of my selfishness inside...
Jesus, Break me of my chauvinistic Pride!
Jesus, Break me! Help me cry like a man!
Jesus, Break Me! On my knees, I will stand!
God's Kingdom Work
Over numerous years in prison, I witnessed countless men released back into society. Unfortunately, I saw many of those same men make return trips back. For a good number of them, a main reason for their recidivism was from the lack of one-on-one accountability and the lack of adequate surroundings to foster that type of assistance.
Although we at Kingdom Boundaries Prison Aftercare (KBPA) work earnestly to provide that type of living environment, there is always room for improvement. And speaking of room, we seem to always be running out of it. Not only that, but KBPA currently has no facilities for women being released from prison. According to the Vera Institute of Justice, women in South Dakota jails and prisons have increased 4,757% since 1980. Consequently, the need for ministries like KBPA are in high demand. It has been a vision of the board and staff to be able to serve not only more men, but women as well.
We have seen firsthand how the principles of God’s Word concerning right living have been highly effective in bringing about lasting changes. KPBA’s program promotes and encourages personal responsibility/accountability, integrity, financial and time stewardship, employment, and restoring relationships with family, friends, and community. These positive traits give the individual resident that “hand up” that is so often needed. It has been said that when you take someone who has made poor decisions, put them in a place where they can get by with making no decisions, and when they get out expect them to make great decisions, well … that usually ends up with many making return trips to prison.
Being an Alumni of KBPA, I speak from experience about how much this ministry has aided in my successful transition back into the community. Now, after serving at KBPA for more than a year, I appreciate it even more. I ask that you prayerfully consider helping us to expand and continue to be a part of God’s Kingdom work.
Many blessings to you and to Him be the glory,
Tim Wendt, MA
KBPA Discipleship Chaplain
Although we at Kingdom Boundaries Prison Aftercare (KBPA) work earnestly to provide that type of living environment, there is always room for improvement. And speaking of room, we seem to always be running out of it. Not only that, but KBPA currently has no facilities for women being released from prison. According to the Vera Institute of Justice, women in South Dakota jails and prisons have increased 4,757% since 1980. Consequently, the need for ministries like KBPA are in high demand. It has been a vision of the board and staff to be able to serve not only more men, but women as well.
We have seen firsthand how the principles of God’s Word concerning right living have been highly effective in bringing about lasting changes. KPBA’s program promotes and encourages personal responsibility/accountability, integrity, financial and time stewardship, employment, and restoring relationships with family, friends, and community. These positive traits give the individual resident that “hand up” that is so often needed. It has been said that when you take someone who has made poor decisions, put them in a place where they can get by with making no decisions, and when they get out expect them to make great decisions, well … that usually ends up with many making return trips to prison.
Being an Alumni of KBPA, I speak from experience about how much this ministry has aided in my successful transition back into the community. Now, after serving at KBPA for more than a year, I appreciate it even more. I ask that you prayerfully consider helping us to expand and continue to be a part of God’s Kingdom work.
Many blessings to you and to Him be the glory,
Tim Wendt, MA
KBPA Discipleship Chaplain
July 14th, 2021
Save the date and experience the vision!
First of all we would like to thank all our partners in ministry. Your prayers and financial support are critical as we walk alongside individuals that have been incarcerated and who God dearly loves.
Again this fall, Kingdom Boundaries will be hosting a banquet to celebrate what God has done over the last 8 years. In addition we will present KB’s vision for the future.
When: Monday September 13
Where: New Life Reformed church, Sioux Center Iowa
232 16th St SE, Sioux Center, IA 51250
Time: Doors open at 5:00pm There will be time to visit with staff, residents, and other friends of KB.
The meal will be at 6:00, with the program to follow. The program will consist of testimonials, a ministry update which includes the vision to expand and build a new facility. Lastly, there will be a live and silent auction.
More information will be sent out before the banquet.
We will be looking forward to seeing you all at the banquet. Please feel free to invite others including friends, neighbors, and family.
Jeff & Rhonda Haverhals
Again this fall, Kingdom Boundaries will be hosting a banquet to celebrate what God has done over the last 8 years. In addition we will present KB’s vision for the future.
When: Monday September 13
Where: New Life Reformed church, Sioux Center Iowa
232 16th St SE, Sioux Center, IA 51250
Time: Doors open at 5:00pm There will be time to visit with staff, residents, and other friends of KB.
The meal will be at 6:00, with the program to follow. The program will consist of testimonials, a ministry update which includes the vision to expand and build a new facility. Lastly, there will be a live and silent auction.
More information will be sent out before the banquet.
We will be looking forward to seeing you all at the banquet. Please feel free to invite others including friends, neighbors, and family.
Jeff & Rhonda Haverhals
June 29, 2021
Again, to God be the glory!
This Saturday, July 3rd, we have the honor to celebrate the wedding of Timothy Wendt and Andrea Christianson. This is yet another example of how a prison sentence does not have to define a person.
When God is the priority in one’s life, this is the testimony of amazing things that can happen. Tim’s commitment has been to follow God’s design for marriage. He is blessed to be marring a wonderful lady, Andrea, who shares this same commitment.
Kingdom Boundaries, on behalf of Tim and Andrea, would like to extend an invitation to all of you.
When God is the priority in one’s life, this is the testimony of amazing things that can happen. Tim’s commitment has been to follow God’s design for marriage. He is blessed to be marring a wonderful lady, Andrea, who shares this same commitment.
Kingdom Boundaries, on behalf of Tim and Andrea, would like to extend an invitation to all of you.
Ecclesiastes 4:10-12 New Living Translation
10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
June 18, 2021
To God be the Glory
KBPA's vision and ministry continues to expand.
God had put in the hearts of several individuals to come along side men as they returned to society from incarceration. With the vision to lower recidivism (the rate individuals go back to prison) by fostering Christian character one person at a time.
Below is a timeline of how God has been blessing KB. It shows the expansion of the ministry of Kingdom Boundaries since its inception in 2013. And in June, KB purchased land (picture below) and has a vision to build a new facility (also pictured below).
2013 September - KBPA Board of Directors established and 501(c)3 non-profit status established
2014 September - rented a room at the Arena Motel, capacity of 3 men
2014 October - rented a second room at the Arena Motel, capacity of 3 men
2014 December - purchased apartment building called "The Carpenter Shop"
2015 March - started accepting men for "The Carpenter Shop", capacity 9 men
2017 January - purchased second apartment building - "The Master's House" capacity 11 men
2018 March - purchased third location called "The Holy Spirit Inn" capacity 4 men
Below is a timeline of how God has been blessing KB. It shows the expansion of the ministry of Kingdom Boundaries since its inception in 2013. And in June, KB purchased land (picture below) and has a vision to build a new facility (also pictured below).
2013 September - KBPA Board of Directors established and 501(c)3 non-profit status established
2014 September - rented a room at the Arena Motel, capacity of 3 men
2014 October - rented a second room at the Arena Motel, capacity of 3 men
2014 December - purchased apartment building called "The Carpenter Shop"
2015 March - started accepting men for "The Carpenter Shop", capacity 9 men
2017 January - purchased second apartment building - "The Master's House" capacity 11 men
2018 March - purchased third location called "The Holy Spirit Inn" capacity 4 men
Since the creation of Kingdom Boundaries Prison Aftercare 190+ men have lived at Kingdom Boundaries and have gone through the program.
"The Carpenter Shop" - "The Master's House" - "The Holy Spirit Inn"
Purchased property at 2901 W Maple, Sioux Falls, SD (1.7 acres)
Vision for the Future
A building having the capacity for 40 men and 16 women residents
which includes apartments, offices, conference room, & a chapel.
A building having the capacity for 40 men and 16 women residents
which includes apartments, offices, conference room, & a chapel.
To God be the glory, great things he has done.
Resident letter to KBPA
It is not without some sense of loss that I find myself leaving Kingdom Boundaries in the morning.
I hesitate to call it bittersweet, as what I feel has no bitterness about it.
Rather, it is the mild sorrow of moving away from a new, but good friend.
I hesitate to call it bittersweet, as what I feel has no bitterness about it.
Rather, it is the mild sorrow of moving away from a new, but good friend.
May 19th, 2021
The following was written by Donald,
a current resident at KBPA.
a current resident at KBPA.
John 11:35 “Jesus Wept”
Here we have the shortest verse in the Bible. A verse that is loved by so many young people who have their eye on a prize for Bible verse memorization. Loved because anyone can remember two words long enough to make it through Vacation Bible School. But what about you and I, the person who is studying the Word and looking for its meaning, looking for its power in our lives. What is there for us?
As I read and study this verse and the story around it, I cannot help but to be encouraged. Once again, I am reminded that we serve a Savior who feels the pain and sorrow of the loss of a loved one like we do. We serve a Savior who when we hurt, He hurts too. He feels our pain.
I have read the account of Lazarus's death. I often wondered why Jesus would cry for the death of His friend when he knew good and well that He was going to bring him back to life. As I pondered this it struck me that Jesus was not crying because of Lazarus's death, but maybe He was crying because of the pain and sorrow that His friends were going through.
That my fellow readers, is a reason for us to love this verse. These two simple words can change the way we look at life when we are faced with the many hurts and struggles of this life. These two simple words are all that we really need when we are so overwhelmed with pain and loss that we do not think we can take another step.
Let us dwell on and rest on the fact that our LORD AND SAVIOR feels our pain, understand our struggles, and is right there just waiting for us to cry out to Him. He Himself is most likely crying with you as He holds you close by His side.
Here we have the shortest verse in the Bible. A verse that is loved by so many young people who have their eye on a prize for Bible verse memorization. Loved because anyone can remember two words long enough to make it through Vacation Bible School. But what about you and I, the person who is studying the Word and looking for its meaning, looking for its power in our lives. What is there for us?
As I read and study this verse and the story around it, I cannot help but to be encouraged. Once again, I am reminded that we serve a Savior who feels the pain and sorrow of the loss of a loved one like we do. We serve a Savior who when we hurt, He hurts too. He feels our pain.
I have read the account of Lazarus's death. I often wondered why Jesus would cry for the death of His friend when he knew good and well that He was going to bring him back to life. As I pondered this it struck me that Jesus was not crying because of Lazarus's death, but maybe He was crying because of the pain and sorrow that His friends were going through.
That my fellow readers, is a reason for us to love this verse. These two simple words can change the way we look at life when we are faced with the many hurts and struggles of this life. These two simple words are all that we really need when we are so overwhelmed with pain and loss that we do not think we can take another step.
Let us dwell on and rest on the fact that our LORD AND SAVIOR feels our pain, understand our struggles, and is right there just waiting for us to cry out to Him. He Himself is most likely crying with you as He holds you close by His side.
Jesus, wake me up to the new day that has come in You.
Open my eyes to choose goodness, righteousness, and beauty.
April 21st, 2021
Psalms 69:30 "Then I will praise God's name with singing,
and I will honor him with thanksgiving."
and I will honor him with thanksgiving."
THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING THANKS!
I was talking with one of the guys today. He was talking about the polygraph he is scheduled to take in a couple days. (This is a lie detector test that many of the men must take as often as every 3 months.) The anxiety for most men is extremely high as they think about the consequences of failing a poly. It could mean a trip back inside the walls.
We get asked to pray with the men on many occasions. (Prayer for a poly is high on the request list.) Today was no different. This man's anxiety was starting to build, and it was time again to remind him that if he told the truth, he didn’t have to worry. We prayed and asked Jesus to calm his fears. After we prayed, he started to talk about how he felt calm and how thankful he was.
At this point he remembered what his mother would tell him when he was a kid. “When you start to worry, pray and count your blessings. Start a list of things to be thankful for and worry will fade.” She compared the sun (which is large) to our blessings. But, if you place a quarter (a coin, small and representing worry) close to your eye, it will block out the sun (blessings). A little worry will stop us from seeing all the blessings we encounter each day.
As a parent it is great to hear words of appreciation and gratitude from our children. Let us not forget that we are God’s children. And as our Father, he longs to hear us give Him credit for all that He does for us minute by minute. When we concentrate on how He takes care of us and how he is in control, worry seems to loosen its grip.
To God be the Glory,
Jeff
We get asked to pray with the men on many occasions. (Prayer for a poly is high on the request list.) Today was no different. This man's anxiety was starting to build, and it was time again to remind him that if he told the truth, he didn’t have to worry. We prayed and asked Jesus to calm his fears. After we prayed, he started to talk about how he felt calm and how thankful he was.
At this point he remembered what his mother would tell him when he was a kid. “When you start to worry, pray and count your blessings. Start a list of things to be thankful for and worry will fade.” She compared the sun (which is large) to our blessings. But, if you place a quarter (a coin, small and representing worry) close to your eye, it will block out the sun (blessings). A little worry will stop us from seeing all the blessings we encounter each day.
As a parent it is great to hear words of appreciation and gratitude from our children. Let us not forget that we are God’s children. And as our Father, he longs to hear us give Him credit for all that He does for us minute by minute. When we concentrate on how He takes care of us and how he is in control, worry seems to loosen its grip.
To God be the Glory,
Jeff
Father, help me to see You more clearly than any force that opposes me
and run to You for true safety and security.
March 24th, 2021
THEREFORE IF ANY MAN BE IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATURE: OLD THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY; BEHOLD, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME NEW. —2 COR. 5:17
One of the greatest challenges for men and women returning to society after incarceration, is putting their faith into practice. For many, the “new creature” seems to be an illusive animal to get a hold of. Although the truth is that old things have truly passed away, the process of that being evident in their lives can be a difficult task.
For many of our residents here at Kingdom Boundaries, living a “new creation life” in today’s culture can be daunting. Temptations of all kinds appealing to their old habits are everywhere—sometimes just literally across the street. The need for a safe place that evangelizes and disciples according to biblical principles, is a powerful tool that God uses to finish the work that He has started (Phil. 1:6).
There is a spiritual battle that goes on around us 24/7. Please continue to pray for the men here at KB to keep their focus on Jesus and their faithfulness to His Word. Also, please keep our vision of expanding this ministry in your prayers. This would include more rooms for men and the beginning of serving women in this ministry as well.
Again, many thoughts of gratitude concerning those who partner in this ministry and for others being led to do the same.
May God continue to bless and keep you,
Tim
KBPA Discipleship Chaplain
For many of our residents here at Kingdom Boundaries, living a “new creation life” in today’s culture can be daunting. Temptations of all kinds appealing to their old habits are everywhere—sometimes just literally across the street. The need for a safe place that evangelizes and disciples according to biblical principles, is a powerful tool that God uses to finish the work that He has started (Phil. 1:6).
There is a spiritual battle that goes on around us 24/7. Please continue to pray for the men here at KB to keep their focus on Jesus and their faithfulness to His Word. Also, please keep our vision of expanding this ministry in your prayers. This would include more rooms for men and the beginning of serving women in this ministry as well.
Again, many thoughts of gratitude concerning those who partner in this ministry and for others being led to do the same.
May God continue to bless and keep you,
Tim
KBPA Discipleship Chaplain
Dear God, thank You for including me in Your plan to tell everyone about Your love.
Help me to represent You well with my words and actions.
March 21st, 2021
WRITTEN BY ONE OF OUR CURRENT KB RESIDENTS
My name is Jamie. I am divorced and have a 7-year-old son, a 10-year-old son, and a 23 year old daughter. I have lived in Sioux Falls since 1997. I graduated from high school in Webster, SD in 1994. I graduated from Colorado Technical University with degrees in "Information Technology" and "Business Management." I have had several types of jobs including being a diesel mechanic, so I guess I am sort of a "jack of all trades".
I went to prison in 2016. While incarcerated I learned that I never want to go back there. While incarcerated I worked in the welding department for four years. I had a great boss and enjoyed my job. My welding job and the Living Stone Church helped my prison stay go much better.
Kingdom Boundaries has helped me get back on my feet. It was much easier with KBPA's help, than going at it alone. I was able to move forward faster with their help and support.
Even though I am employed, my goal is to find a good long-term job and an apartment. Also, I want to get back in my kid's lives and be a father again.
I went to prison in 2016. While incarcerated I learned that I never want to go back there. While incarcerated I worked in the welding department for four years. I had a great boss and enjoyed my job. My welding job and the Living Stone Church helped my prison stay go much better.
Kingdom Boundaries has helped me get back on my feet. It was much easier with KBPA's help, than going at it alone. I was able to move forward faster with their help and support.
Even though I am employed, my goal is to find a good long-term job and an apartment. Also, I want to get back in my kid's lives and be a father again.
Jesus, give me the grace to practice Your ways by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Empower me to live my life in a way that bears the fruit of the Spirit.
February 25th, 2021
TRUST IN HIM
Be careful [anxious] for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)
Well, this is sometimes much easier said than done. But nonetheless, God has instructed us to not be anxious about the things of this world. To help us turn to God for help in this matter, consider the following quote that a pastor used this last Sunday in a sermon:
Well, this is sometimes much easier said than done. But nonetheless, God has instructed us to not be anxious about the things of this world. To help us turn to God for help in this matter, consider the following quote that a pastor used this last Sunday in a sermon:
“Whenever a man allows himself to have anxieties, fears, or complaints, he must consider his behavior as either a denial of the wisdom of God or as a confession that he is out of his will” (William Law 1686-1761).
We must always remember that God has the last word in any situation (Ps. 2). In addition, He has promised that He will make all things good for His called and those that love Him (Rom. 8:28). We are told that those who trust in the Lord will be blessed! Trust in Him!
Tim Wendt
Discipleship Chaplain
Tim Wendt
Discipleship Chaplain
Father, I long to be more like Your Son, but so often fall short in word, thought, or deed.
Forgive me, and help me to yield to the work of Your Spirit so Jesus might be formed in me.
February 11th, 2021
COUNTING THE COST
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Luke 14:28 (ESV)
In this verse Jesus is relaying to the crowd that was following Him the cost of being His disciples. Many that followed Jesus at this time were looking for something: a healing perhaps, a miracle that would turn a small portion into a meal for thousands, a word of blessing, or maybe a leader that would drive out the Romans.
But Jesus knew their hearts and communicated to the crowd that following Him would come at a cost. He said in Luke 12:53 "The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother-in-law". Following Jesus requires Christians to take a stand.
At KBPA, as a board and as staff, we too are starting to count the cost on a different but somewhat similar way. We are starting to explore the idea of purchasing land and building a new facility. The building would expand our current capacity from 22 to approximately 60 individuals, which would include housing and services for women.
This expansion would also require an increase in staff, more offices, etc. The ideal facility would also incorporate a worship center that could also be used for meetings and other activities. We are required to count more than just the financial cost. Do we seek federal and state grants at the cost of losing the ability to require residents to attend bible studies and church services? We discussed this in 2013 when KBPA was just getting started. We said that we did not want to get in a situation where we had to rely on grants like this.
So, we are counting the costs and counting on the support of the community. There are also questions to be answered. Do our communities see the value in walking alongside the men and women who are seeking a new and different life as they re-enter society? What would be the cost if these men and women do not get the help that they need? Would it be just more of the same brokenness that led many of them to a life of addiction and incarceration. The cost to build will be high, but the cost to these men and women could be even greater if we do not.
Please pray for the board and staff as we count the cost.
Thank you
Jeff
In this verse Jesus is relaying to the crowd that was following Him the cost of being His disciples. Many that followed Jesus at this time were looking for something: a healing perhaps, a miracle that would turn a small portion into a meal for thousands, a word of blessing, or maybe a leader that would drive out the Romans.
But Jesus knew their hearts and communicated to the crowd that following Him would come at a cost. He said in Luke 12:53 "The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother-in-law". Following Jesus requires Christians to take a stand.
At KBPA, as a board and as staff, we too are starting to count the cost on a different but somewhat similar way. We are starting to explore the idea of purchasing land and building a new facility. The building would expand our current capacity from 22 to approximately 60 individuals, which would include housing and services for women.
This expansion would also require an increase in staff, more offices, etc. The ideal facility would also incorporate a worship center that could also be used for meetings and other activities. We are required to count more than just the financial cost. Do we seek federal and state grants at the cost of losing the ability to require residents to attend bible studies and church services? We discussed this in 2013 when KBPA was just getting started. We said that we did not want to get in a situation where we had to rely on grants like this.
So, we are counting the costs and counting on the support of the community. There are also questions to be answered. Do our communities see the value in walking alongside the men and women who are seeking a new and different life as they re-enter society? What would be the cost if these men and women do not get the help that they need? Would it be just more of the same brokenness that led many of them to a life of addiction and incarceration. The cost to build will be high, but the cost to these men and women could be even greater if we do not.
Please pray for the board and staff as we count the cost.
Thank you
Jeff
Jesus, I will wait for You. Through pain, tears, and uncertainly,
help me to not become weary but to rest in Your provision.
January 26th, 2021
SACRIFICE
As Christians, we all sacrifice to follow Christ. The extent of our sacrifice is determined by the strength of our faith and our personal willingness to carry the burden of Christ (Of course, this burden is actually light just as he has promised.). As Americans, we may never be given the opportunity for the ultimate sacrifice of life, but we can live a life full of service and giving.
The following prayer is one that is humbling as sometimes the burden seems too much. Wrong! I can do all this through him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13).
Written by a young African pastor. It was found among his papers in Zimbabwe after he was martyred for his Christian faith.
"I'm a part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His and I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.
My past is redeemed. My present makes sense. My future is secure. I'm done and finished with low-living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living, and dwarfed goals.
I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, or first, or tops, or recognized, or praised, or rewarded. I live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by Holy Spirit power.
My face is set. My gait is fast. My goal is heaven. My road may be narrow, my way rough, my companions few, but my guide is reliable and my mission is clear.
I will not be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed.
I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice or hesitate in the presence of the adversary. I will not negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.
I won't give up, shut up, or let up until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, and preached up for the cause of Christ.
I am a disciple of Jesus. I must give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He does come for His own, He'll have no problems recognizing me. My colors will be clear!"
Author's name unknown
The following prayer is one that is humbling as sometimes the burden seems too much. Wrong! I can do all this through him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13).
Written by a young African pastor. It was found among his papers in Zimbabwe after he was martyred for his Christian faith.
"I'm a part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His and I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.
My past is redeemed. My present makes sense. My future is secure. I'm done and finished with low-living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living, and dwarfed goals.
I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, or first, or tops, or recognized, or praised, or rewarded. I live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by Holy Spirit power.
My face is set. My gait is fast. My goal is heaven. My road may be narrow, my way rough, my companions few, but my guide is reliable and my mission is clear.
I will not be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed.
I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice or hesitate in the presence of the adversary. I will not negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.
I won't give up, shut up, or let up until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, and preached up for the cause of Christ.
I am a disciple of Jesus. I must give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He does come for His own, He'll have no problems recognizing me. My colors will be clear!"
Author's name unknown
Jesus, help me to surrender [sacrifice] my all for You today
as I serve You and those around me for Your honor.
January 13th, 2021
DISTRACTIONS
Well, it is a new year and already full of potentially distracting events. Indeed, distractions of this world are a very real threat to the residents of Kingdom Boundaries. Of course, that is true for all of us, but especially for those just out of prison. Not only do they have current events to worry about, but also the resurfacing of old habits and friends.
This of course makes it even more difficult in making the next right choice. It is clear in the Scriptures that we are not to allow distractions and worries to interfere with our walks, but of course, it is certainly easier said than done.
The spiritual warfare that goes on against men and women who were once under the influence and bidding of Satan, can be quite intense. We see that on a regular basis here at KB. The devil and his demons do whatever they can to distract us from who we are: a new creation in Christ!
Those still dealing with guilt and shame are an easy mark for the enemy. Understanding that we have been forgiven and have been given the ability to forgive others, is an especially important weapon in our arsenal. Sorting through all these forgiveness issues is indeed a process and for many it can go on for some time. This is where Kingdom Boundaries has been and continues to be a place of hope for new beginnings -- a sure hope based upon the Word of God.
My goal while serving in this ministry is as follows:
Point to the One who can redeem the soul [mind, will, and emotions], and then give a life joyful peace and purpose (1 Kings 1:29; Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:7; Ephesians 2:10).
(Please pray specifically for God's enabling grace in this daily endeavor.)
We are excited in the recent steps taken by the Board to enable KB to serve more men and start serving women. Please keep any financial support for this building project in prayerful consideration.
As a dear brother in Christ and longtime mentor often closes his messages to me: "Keep your eyes on Jesus". He is indeed the Author and Finisher of our faith, so always look to Him!
His many blessing to you,
Tim Wendt
KBPA Discipleship Chaplain
This of course makes it even more difficult in making the next right choice. It is clear in the Scriptures that we are not to allow distractions and worries to interfere with our walks, but of course, it is certainly easier said than done.
The spiritual warfare that goes on against men and women who were once under the influence and bidding of Satan, can be quite intense. We see that on a regular basis here at KB. The devil and his demons do whatever they can to distract us from who we are: a new creation in Christ!
Those still dealing with guilt and shame are an easy mark for the enemy. Understanding that we have been forgiven and have been given the ability to forgive others, is an especially important weapon in our arsenal. Sorting through all these forgiveness issues is indeed a process and for many it can go on for some time. This is where Kingdom Boundaries has been and continues to be a place of hope for new beginnings -- a sure hope based upon the Word of God.
My goal while serving in this ministry is as follows:
Point to the One who can redeem the soul [mind, will, and emotions], and then give a life joyful peace and purpose (1 Kings 1:29; Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:7; Ephesians 2:10).
(Please pray specifically for God's enabling grace in this daily endeavor.)
We are excited in the recent steps taken by the Board to enable KB to serve more men and start serving women. Please keep any financial support for this building project in prayerful consideration.
As a dear brother in Christ and longtime mentor often closes his messages to me: "Keep your eyes on Jesus". He is indeed the Author and Finisher of our faith, so always look to Him!
His many blessing to you,
Tim Wendt
KBPA Discipleship Chaplain
Dear God, thank you for interrupting the downward trajectory of my life
and making me a new creation! Make me ever more like You.