PRAISE THE LORD
Prison Mission Report
Dear Brothers and Sister in Christ
"It is always humiliating to have one’s errors pointed out. None should make the experience more bitter by needless censure. No one was ever reclaimed by reproach; but many have thus been repelled and have been led to steel their hearts against conviction. A tender spirit, a gentle, winning deportment, may save the erring and hide a multitude of sins.
"The apostle Paul found it necessary to reprove wrong, but how carefully he sought to show that he was a friend to the erring! How anxiously he explained to them the reason of his action! He made them understand that it cost him pain to give them pain. He showed his confidence and sympathy toward the ones who were struggling to overcome." {MH 166}
"We should strive to understand the weakness of others. We know little of the heart trials of those who have been bound in chains of darkness and who lack resolution and moral power. Most pitiable is the condition of him who is suffering under remorse; he is as one stunned, staggering, sinking into the dust. He can see nothing clearly. The mind is beclouded, he knows not what steps to take. Many a poor soul is misunderstood, unappreciated, full of distress and agony--a lost, straying sheep. He cannot find God, yet he has an intense longing for pardon and peace.
"Oh, let no word be spoken to cause deeper pain! To the soul weary of a life of sin, but knowing not where to find relief, present the compassionate Saviour. Take him by the hand, lift him up, speak to him words of courage and hope. Help him to grasp the hand of the Saviour.
"We become too easily discouraged over the souls who do not at once respond to our efforts. Never should we cease to labor for a soul while there is one gleam of hope. Precious souls cost our self-sacrificing Redeemer too dear a price to be lightly given up to the tempter’s power.
"We need to put ourselves in the place of the tempted ones. Consider the power of heredity, the influence of evil associations and surroundings, the power of wrong habits. Can we wonder that under such influences many become degraded? Can we wonder that they should be slow to respond to efforts for their uplifting?
"Often, when won to the gospel, those who appeared coarse and unpromising will be among its most loyal adherents and advocates. They are not altogether corrupt. Beneath the forbidding exterior there are good impulses that might be reached. Without a helping hand many would never recover themselves, but by patient, persistent effort they may be uplifted. Such need tender words, kind consideration, tangible help. They need that kind of counsel which will not extinguish the faint gleam of courage in the soul. Let the workers who come in contact with them consider this." {MH 168}
Dear Brother Ronald John,
Thank you for encouragement on my studies and the exam I took. The book has been inspirational and useful in helping me to learn about God, Jesus and what’s in store for us. It has answered many questions and also has brought forth other questions. But at least I now have a path to follow: that’s the teachings of Jesus. This book showed me how the plan of salvation lies between two points. That of a sinner and that of a Christian who is walking with God perfectly. It’s easy to run around and claim to be a Christian, but very few actually are, for most do not follow the 3 main points of Jesus’ teachings: be perfect, stop sinner and keep the Ten Commandments. We should take extra care to learn what is righteous in the eyes of the Lord and live accordingly.
Joseph, CA
Dear Brother Ronald,
I hope that when you get this letter that you will be in God’s care. I wish if you can mail me that life change biblically. I’m so sorry that I can send you 2 stamped envelopes. Some one blessed me so I’ll send what I can. I love God and I’d tried to get what I can but you know people in prison they don’t like to give nothing for free.
Hillman, CA
Dear Brother Ronald John,
Received your letter last evening and thank your son for grading my homework. That was real decent of him. I have read your book "Change Your Life Biblically" several times. I now read a portion of it every day along with other books. I have learned most pastors and preachers have no real concept of the Bible. I enjoyed the part about "turn from sin, be obedient to the Ten Commandments". Now I know what happens at death. Before reading your book I was most ignorant on the subject of "death". Of course I didn’t know I was ignorant. If you can believe it, I NOW know the Ten Commandments. So many people go to church and are fortunate if they know five of the Ten Commandments. Most go because it’s the thing to do on Sunday morning. Satan sure has people fooled. Yes, I learned the Covenant of Love: the Ten Commandments. I listen to my neighbor about knowing God and I want to shout, "you don’t know God or you would keep His Ten Commandments". It seems like every time I read your book I learn something new. Something I thought I knew but was way off the mark.
Ronald, IL
Ronald,
I have done over 50 other Bible correspondence courses and have received over 144 certificates. I believe your workbook "Change Your Life Biblically" speaks all truth and is the most informative and challenging of all the other studies I have done. I find myself using the knowledge gained from the "Change Your Life Biblically" book almost every day in witnessing to others in truth about Jesus and God’s commandments and prophecy. I really love the proofs in the back of the book such as scientific findings, etc. I came to a conclusion that a lot of people are under the control of Satan and are being deceived and so they want to argue about things. I am glad to now know the truth and will continue to follow Jesus’ teachings and all of His commandments, including the 7th day (Saturday) Sabbath. P.S., I am on my 4th reading of "Change Your Life Biblically".
Tracy, CA
Dear Publisher,
A friend of mine had a book of yours called, "Change Your Life Biblically". I was wondering if you can send me one. I am also interested in other material that will help me grow in my relationship with Jesus.
Daniel, ID
Dear Sir,
I am writing in regards to a book I was shown by an inmate. He was transferred shortly after we met each other. The title of the book was "Change Your Life Biblically". I would very much like to know how I can get this book? I’m very eager to read and learn more about Christianity as I was basically told about your book and the help it gave my friend. I don’t have any money to send you or I would. My family has all passed away during the past 30 years I have been incarcerated.
Lawrence, CA
Dear Sir,
Please send me your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". I have seen some inmates here carry it around. I looked at one copy and liked to go through the lessons it offers.
Dale, TN
JCPM,
I would like to thank you for this great opportunity and offer. I feel I am a believer in Christ who needs guidance and thank you whole heartily for this chance to help change my life for the better. My mother is also walking with the Lord and currently locked down and in need of spiritual guidance.
Jason, CA
Dear Ronald John,
Enclosed are the 10 stamps for the book. I have received it and thus far I’ve been enjoying it a great deal. I look forward to reading it several times The new information about justification is more clear to me. This book is getting to become the best I ever read. It is pieces of a puzzle that can lead me to completion.
Carlos, CO
Dear Ronald John,
My fiancé and I are both incarcerated. We are both completely indigent and would really love to study your workbook. We have both given our lives to the Lord and want to learn all we can about Him and His Word. Could you please send us each a copy? We would be much appreciated.
Rachel, CA
Dear Ronald John,
I’m responding to the letter you sent me last week. I would like to receive "Change Your Life Biblically" so I may enrich my life. I have been encouraged by brother inmates to actively get the workbook and newsletter. But at this time I don’t have the funds to send to you. I don’t know when I will be able to send money.
Trent, CA
Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
A brother of mine gave me your address. I would love to be blessed with your study book. I unfortunately am indigent so I can’t send the 10 stamps but if you would bless me with your book I am hungry to learn God’s Word. I am 28 years old with 9 years to do and 3 strikes. I cannot go back to the old ways. This is God reaching out and giving me one last chance.
Erick, CA
To Whom it may Concern,
I consider myself a baby Christina because I don’t know too much about the Bible. A brother here gave me your address. He said you might be able to help me in my search for the truth. He mentioned that you might be able to send me a book called "Change Your Life Biblically". I’m very interested in this book. He said someone in prison wrote it.
Frank, CA
Dear Brother Ronald,
Yes, I got your "Change Your Life Biblically" book in the mail a day ago. I thank you for sending it to me. I will not mail you the lessons until I transfer, OK? But I will read and re-read it and I’ll answer the questions, OK? If I get some more stamped envelopes I’ll send more when I can.
Hillman, CA
To My Brother in Christ Jesus,
My name is Juan and I’m here with another fellow brother, Danny. He let me borrow your book and I found it very interesting and I would like to have one of my own. I don’t have any money. I will give you this much: my heart, time and every effort to dig my head in your book. I truly want to change and be Christ-like. By all means.
Juan, CA
Dear J.C. Prison Ministry,
A Christian Brother gave me this application for the workbook, "Change Your Life Biblically". I am a Christian who truly wants to live biblically. I am an indigent person and don’t have money to send for the book. I have filled out the application and am sending it along with this letter. I do honestly give my mind to study the book and to do my best to spread the word of the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Jason, CA
Hello,
Thank you guys for your response. I’m sending you guys the 10 1st class stamps. I’m hoping to receive the study book soon so I can start on it. I really appreciate you guys sending me the free study book. Well, thank you guys very much and as soon as I receive the book I’m going to get started.
Jason, CA
Ronald John,
Well, hello brother. I too enjoyed your letter. Especially about your son. It’s like you seem to understand your role to "keep the torch" going, sort to speak. I find myself around much Spanish speaking brothers. I do Bible studies in Spanish with my English Bible. A lot are from pagan backgrounds. Some were carrying necklaces that present a belief of praying to the "dead" or the so-called "mother" of Christ Jesus. I had to address that right away. I notice the bead necklaces gone now. Last Sabbath another gentleman accepted the Bible Sabbath. So there are about six of us who are known Sabbath keepers and promoters. I know a couple get offended by my blunt teachings, but they tend to come back seeming more willing to learn. I do it very nicely however to over all expose most worldly churches’ point of views contradictions may tend at times to rattle some. I repeatedly emphasize the Bible only. I notice how sincerely yet ignorantly many get caught up with "church". I believe that the Bible is the only rule of faith. I really enjoyed your book. Wow, so powerful. I honestly pray for your ministry often.
Frankie, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
Hope you are doing well. Please use this Ten Dollar gift to help someone come to the Lord Jesus Christ. I appreciate your sincere attitude and concern for prisoners across the country. I am going back to county jail. I will let you know my new address when available. I love you brother Ron and thank God for you and your ministry. Please continue to trust in Jesus and know that God knows your needs with regards to money needed for books, supplies, etc. He will provide.
Steve, WA
Dear Prison Ministry,
I’m writing this letter to you in regards to a newsletter I came across. I’m doing a little time here. I’m looking to better understand the Lord and am hoping that you or someone you know can put me in touch with some literature.
William, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
I have received your utmost welcome letter the other day. Thank you for always touching base with me on all things. Often times I think the world owes me. However that’s quite the contrary nonetheless. I fully agree with you. I know that for me personally, I never seen it that God was good to me nor cared, although He has kept me alive and today I recognize that. Brother Ron, I got the monthly newsletter and was deeply disturbed about the financial system that’s somewhat failing for Jesus Christ Prison Ministry, so to speak. You’ve done great work by changing many lives and for self-sacrifice for God’s Word. That will not go unnoticed in our Lord Jesus Christ’s eyes. Brother Ron, you are doing a lot of faith by your works and can’t nobody say otherwise. I commend you on that. Glory to God. Although am sorry to hear about the struggle with money. I am still studying the workbook, so give me time and be patient with me. I am also slowly converting to become a vegetarian. Well brother Ron, as always your company is a pleasure.
Jesse, CA
Hi Ron,
Always good to hear from you, a friendly voice, a voice of reason. They moved me out of the cell and cellhouse I was in for the past three years. I was totally shocked. I got along real good with the officers running the unit, but I guess the order came from the administration. Anyhow, a change of environment is good. I’ll go wherever the Lord inspires people to put me. The unit I was in was a lot of younger guys who weren’t yet set in their ways in thinking about the Lord. They didn’t yet have their mind branded with a false gospel. It was easier to work with them. In this unit a lot of people it seems like the false teaching Satan is using to corrupt God’s true gospel. I’ve talked to a few people about the Sabbath, about obeying God’s laws and about what happens when we die. It’s going to be very hard to get through to some people. All I can do with some is show by example and wait for good opportunities to present themselves. It would be laughable if it wasn’t so sad to hear all the reasoning people give for believing these false teachings. I hope things in the ministry are going good for you. Stay strong, I know the Lord will always provide for you and has great things in store for you.
Peter, IL
Dear Ronald John,
I’ve enclosed 10 first class stamps for you to please send me one of your workbooks.
Mark, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
Thank you for the letter you sent me and the book, Change Your Life Biblically". I have started reading it. Well you send a letter to both of my sisters and a book to them? I am sending their address to you. And send a book to my brother and my son. Thank you so much.
Mildred, WA (non-inmate)
Dear Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
I received your mail. Thank you for giving me another chance to receive a book. I apologize if I wasn’t clear. I was borrowing your workbook for a couple of days. It answered a lot of questions and gradually added confidence to my hopes of trying to "walk in the Spirit". It also helps me to be rooted in the faith. I’ve been all into the Bible and the history of it that I’ve just been captivated and fascinated about it. I just work with what I have and it’s not a lot but your workbook fills in the gaps. I have a big family who where brought up Methodist but the church that we attended never stirred me up like your workbook. I have a higher respect for God and my faith is much stronger now. My family are not rich, but I promise I will make a donation because I think it’s cool your helping out inmates to change their ways.
Situe, CA
Ronald John,
Received your letter this Monday evening and so delighted to hear from you. I look back over the years when I played gospel music in many churches (mostly Southern Baptists) and not once was the congregations told to be obedient to the Ten Commandments. Not one church and none of my books, but yours stated this. Amazing. Every day I study out of your book. With each reading you learn something new. Please say hello to your son. Once in a while I’ll have several inmates engaged in the Bible and I’ll slip your teachings in from your book. At present it is the best I can do and most time, the inmates are open minded and will listen and share their views. I explained to them we all have been liars because we claim to know God but yet haven’t been obedient to His Ten Commandments. That got them to thinking, to say the least. Your book makes the Bible so clear.
Ronald, IL
Dear Ron,
Thank you so much my friend. I do so much appreciate the new book and the one you sent to my wife. I’ve already started it and as with my last one, I’m showing it off to those around me. I’ve got to tell you, the last one I used helped me get through a pretty rough time in my life and it helped me realize that the world don’t revolve around me. I went back and read my "thoughts" and can see how much I’ve grown in the Lord and now instead of me praying, "my will", I’ve learned to ask God to reveal His plan for our lives. It’s amazing how when I gave my problems up to the Lord He took over. I’ve learned so much from "Change Your Life Biblically" and so I look forward to going through it again. I know I’ll pick up more this time as much as I’ve learned and grown in the Lord from the first time. I expect the Lord will work even more in my life now that I’ve accepted His will for me. Well Ron, I’m going to let you go now but I just want to say "Thank you" for your service to the Lord.
Joseph, OR
Dear Ronald,
Well, I’m down to 12 days now. And yes, I will get up with you when I get out. I do plan to live obediently to God for the rest of my life. You’re right, I shouldn’t worry about a wife, and I don’t. I don’t worry even about a job or where I’ll stay because I know without a doubt that God will add all this to me. God knows what I need and He does answer my prayers because I live obedient to Him. People ask me, do you have a job. I say No. But I’ll get one because God knows and will provide. The only thing I plan to focus on is God’s kingdom and all these things shall be added. God first, me last. Well, this is my last letter to you until I get out.
Rodney, CA
Dear Ronald,
I’d like to say "thank you" for your letter you sent me. I’ve heard many good things about you and your prison ministry. Thank you on behalf of all of us "lifers" who will surely benefit from the knowledge and instructive format from your book. Someday very soon I’d like to write and share with you a little bit of my long journey of 30 years in prison.
Larry, CA
Ronald John,
Hi brother Ron. How are you? I was very pleased to receive your letter with the message that I had done well on the "Change Your Life Biblically" exam. Like I had told you, it was very challenging. More than any other study I have done and I know I have gained more knowledge and growth in Jesus through this study than all of the other studies combined. Even the American Bible Academy lies and tries to avoid truth about the Sabbath and say it was done away with. And of course they put very little information about the Sabbath cause I believe they know they are wrong or if not, then Satan has them blinded very badly along with many others. I use the "Change Your Life Biblically" and the Bible for all my witnessing here in prison and to others that I correspond through the mail to. A lot of people still want to argue about what the Bible says and doesn’t say. I really love using the information in the back of the "Change Your Life Biblically" to prove evolutionists wrong. Great information. As a matter of fact Ron, a lot of those facts changed me into a believer along with all the prophecies. I have changed my life - "Biblically". My old ways have passed and all things have become new. I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. My faith is strong and I am trying to be perfect by following all God’s commands including keeping the Saturday Sabbath and showing others as much as I can. All glory going to Jesus.
Tracy, CA
Dear Brother John,
I got your letter today and I’m sending you the 5 stamps for the workbook. I do appreciate you doing our Lord’s work for Him and the calling He has given you. It does my soul good to know we have God-loving people reaching out to others to bring them to our Lord. I will send you more stamps when I can get them from other brothers.
Gary, CA
Dear Ronald,
Hello my wonderful brother in Christ. I’ve received your most welcomed letter letting me know that my "Change Your Life Biblically" book is on the way to me. Thank you so much and I look so forward to getting it soon enough, my friend. I’ll do the answer sheets after I’ve read and re-read the book through several times. So, I’d like to thank you very much once again. I want to be clear on this and let you know at this time, that "yes" Ronald, I do want to work for Jesus in this ministry, please.
Mark, CA
"Every true reform has its place in the work of the gospel and tends to the uplifting of the soul to a new and nobler life. Especially does the temperance reform demand the support of Christian workers. They should call attention to this work and make it a living issue. Everywhere they should present to the people the principles of true temperance and call for signers to the temperance pledge. Earnest effort should be made in behalf of those who are in bondage to evil habits. {MH 171.1}
"There is everywhere a work to be done for those who through intemperance have fallen. In the midst of churches, religious institutions, and professedly Christian homes, many of the youth are choosing the path to destruction. Through intemperate habits they bring upon themselves disease, and through greed to obtain money for sinful indulgence they fall into dishonest practices. Health and character are ruined. Aliens from God, outcasts from society, these poor souls feel that they are without hope either for this life or for the life to come. The hearts of the parents are broken. Men speak of these erring ones as hopeless; but not so does God regard them. He understands all the circumstances that have made them what they are, and He looks upon them with pity. This is a class that demand help. Never give them occasion to say, "No man cares for my soul." {MH 171.2}
"Among the victims of intemperance are men of all classes and all professions. Men of high station, of eminent talents, of great attainments, have yielded to the indulgence of appetite until they are helpless to resist temptation. Some of them who were once in the possession of wealth are without home, without friends, in suffering, misery, disease, and degradation. They have lost their self-control. Unless a helping hand is held out to them, they will sink lower and lower. With these, self-indulgence is not only a moral sin, but a physical disease. {MH 172.1}
God bless each of your for your hearts of love in holding out your hands and sending your support each month. We are not a glamorous ministry. We don’t entertain you. We just change lives through the Power of Christ and His word. Thank you for being a part of God’s work. However, I am pleading. If you are able to dip into your savings and send us an extra $1000 or so, we need it. If you have extra vehicles sitting around rusting, God needs them. Get what you can for them, even if that is not what they are "worth". They are worth nothing if we don’t have the funds to send books. Please, sell what you can and help us. Thank you folks. God bless you for your sacrifices for God.
Ron & Son