PRAISE THE LORD
Prison Mission Report
Dear Brothers and Sister in Christ
"How much means is expended for things that are mere idols, things that engross thought and time and strength which should be put to a higher use! How much money is wasted on expensive houses and furniture, on selfish pleasures, luxurious and unwholesome food, hurtful indulgences! How much is squandered on gifts that benefit no one! For things that are needless, often harmful, professed Christians are today spending more, many times more, than they spend in seeking to rescue souls from the tempter.
"Many who profess to be Christians spend so much on dress that they have nothing to spare for the needs of others. Costly ornaments and expensive clothing they think they must have, regardless of the needs of those who can with difficulty provide themselves with even the plainest clothing.
"My sisters, if you would bring your manner of dressing into conformity with the rules given in the Bible, you would have an abundance with which to help your poorer sisters. You would have not only means, but time. Often this is most needed. There are many whom you might help with your suggestions, your tact and skill. Show them how to dress simply and yet tastefully. Many a woman remains away from the house of God because her shabby, ill-fitting garments are in such striking contrast to the dress of others. Many a sensitive spirit cherishes a sense of bitter humiliation and injustice because of this contrast. And because of it many are led to doubt the reality of religion and to harden their hearts against the gospel.
"Christ bids us, ‘Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.’ While thousands are every day perishing from famine, bloodshed, fire, and plague, it becomes every lover of his kind to see that nothing is wasted, that nothing is needlessly expended, whereby he might benefit a human being." MH 207
Folks, we want to thank those of you who dug deep the last couple of months to help us. This year has been a very tough year on our budget. With your continued help I think we will soon be out of debt and then be able move forward in the Lord’s work.
Dear Brother Ronald John,
I am responding to the pamphlet that brother Melvin gave me. I would love to participate with the workbook. I’m from a Caribbean Island.
Navindra, NY
Dear Brother Ronald,
I’m so happy that I got your newsletter today! I have some bad news to tell you. I’m not going to fire camp no more because I got into some trouble. I’m in protective custody. I didn’t get into any trouble, but some guys jumped on me for saying something that was disrespectful. I didn’t know it was wrong in the first place. Anyhow, I have problems now with this certain race. I mean they have a problem with me. I don’t understand their crazy games they go by in here. All my property was taken. I’m learning of His teachings, brother Ronald. The study book that you’ve sent me, I love it. I was taking my time reading it because it gave me something to do to better myself. Brother Ronald, I was reading the newsletter that I got from you today. I see how much in demand the study book is. Please, I do want to finish it and to pass it on to somebody else so that it’ll change their life. Please send me another one. The one you sent me got stolen along with the rest of my property.
Perry, CA
Dear Ron,
I can not put this book down. I would like to thank you for hearing your calling from our Lord. I am 33 years old and I am finally realizing the truth. I cried so much throughout my study. I am now feeling more confident in my faith and understanding. I am amazed at the truth I have found through the things taught in this study. I have always felt something not quite right. Something missing in my belief. I had to that point only learned half truths. I have put into practice the change this study has had on me. Thank you so much. The truth is the truth and no one can change that. I am trying with all my heart to follow His teachings. To follow the one and only 10 Commandments as they are written.
Heather, IN
Dear Jesus Christ Ministry,
I am working on your workbook right now. I really appreciate this workbook. I know God wanted me to find this book in the chapel. This was my second time at the chapel library and I never could find any books and finally I found "Change Your Life Biblically". I had been born again for about 3 1/2 years. Well, at least I thought I was. I would really like it if I had my own copy so I don’t have to keep signing it out. I really take my time with it. I know I will learn a lot from this book. I also would like to compliment you on your progress as a Christian. I know God really appreciates the thousands, maybe millions, of people you have helped save. Thank you for the time you have put in this book.
Peter, PA
To Whom It May Concern,
Hello. A friend of mine has your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". I need one. I desperately want to change my life.
Lauanna, OR
Dear Brother,
I noticed an invitation to receive a free workbook and an opportunity to earn a free Bible. I thought this might be something I would enjoy. I would be privileged and very appreciative to participate in what you have to offer.
Brian, MI
Ronald John,
I was reading and studying "Change Your Life Biblically" that a friend , well, cellmate, let me borrow. I really enjoyed studying God’s Word. And the insight you share in the book is awesome. I wish to continue studying "Change Your Life Biblically". Can you please send me out a book here at the jail. I would be greatly appreciative. I wish to share it with my celly and others and always put it to good use. I was also writing and sharing a lot with my wife about the book.
Greg, CA
To Whom It May Concern,
I ran across your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". However, because I’m very interested in the last days I went straight to volume 3. It wasn’t until I was done that I noticed it was a Bible study course. However, for the past fourteen months I’ve been doing a Bible study course. None the less I am very interested in yours.
Richard, AZ
Dear Sir,
I can thank and praise our God for you. I have read your book "Change Your Life Biblically" and enjoyed every word that you wrote. I am asking for a copy to be sent to my wife. I have told her about your book. Please send it.
Robert, CA
Greetings,
I’m writing this letter to receive the free workbook, "Change Your Life Biblically". I found your bulletin up under a lot of papers in the chapel here. The chaplain is not one who makes these things known to us inmates. I pray that it is not to late to receive these blessings from God. Thank you for your time in this matter and I look forward in learning from you.
Albert, CA
Dear Ronald John,
I finally got enough stamps to send for my workbook, "Change Your Life Biblically". I can’t wait to get the blessing that God wants me to get out of the workbook. I know that my life is in need of changing and I know that God is the only one who can do that because everything that He does is good. I know that I will get a lot more of His love and truth out of this workbook. Here are the ten first class stamps that God provided for me to receive His truth. Please send it to me.
Willie, CA
Dear Ronald John,
I am writing you to ask you to please send your book, "Change Your Life Biblically" to my grandson who is incarcerated in prison. He is up for parole. Could you please rush a book to him immediately so that he can get it before he is released? Thank you very much. I am enclosing $25 donation to help defray the cost of the book. Thank God for you and your ministry.
Lucille, NJ (non-inmate)
Ronald John,
Good to hear from you. I have been moved from the bay view of San Quentin to L.A. County. We are opening up a main line right now. Officially in about a month we will be main population instead of reception. Though shaky, I’m glad I left San Quentin. Boy I look forward to holding my daughter for the very first time. I’m mailing you here twenty stamps. God has flooded me with favor so here you go. God always pays me double the comfort. I’m better from my surgery. I’m taking it easy. This new change may help, but I got my focus. I spread the seed as I could in San Quentin, now it’s time to move on. You know, on my last yard day there, on a Sabbath, God’s message of truth was preached. So many accepted. I may be gone, but many will take my place. I flooded them with information and literature.
Frankie, CA
Dear John,
Just a note to say hello and to say thank you for all your good teachings. I have finally been moved. I am really looking forward to finishing my studies stress free. :-) I can say I’m a stronger person with all the time reading your book. I’ve learned a lot and am still learning. You’ll see my progression when you get my test back. I learn by your teachings daily and will continue to do so. Hope all is well on your end. I keep you in my prayers and hope to hear from you soon. Please send me some of your flyers so I can pass them out.
Chris, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
I thought that now would be a good time to write and let you know that I’m still reading, studying and enjoying your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". I have also decided to take your advice and take my time and read the entire book again. I have learned a lot about that’s all in your book that’s pertaining to the work of God itself. I also want to thank you for the newsletters that I find to be very encouraging to me.
Anthony, CA
Jeff,
I received a letter from you and your dad and the newsletter on the 12th. I’m writing in the same envelope to save stamps and to include here some stamps. Brother Jeff, your letter and the letter that showed in the newsletter were inspiring. Not the eloquence but the sincerity. Brother, as a twenty four year old lifer without parole, I plead for you not to steer away from what God has called you. Keep that child like focus on your "Father". Continue one who genuinely serves and away from the type who only massages the ears of men. I say this, not because I detect flaws in you, no by far, I say this for I see your strength and the potential God Most High has given you. In Christ we are free in joy and peace, content in all for we faithfully obey His word of truth.
Frankie, CA
JCPM,
I was referred to your program and given an application to fill out. I am interested in your program. I believe in change. I’ve been incarcerated for 15 years. Nothing is positive about prison. It’s what the individual makes of his situation. Your program appears to be a positive influence. I would like to be forwarded a workbook.
Nathaniel, CA
Dear John,
A friend of mine let me look and read a little bit of your book called, "Change Your Life Biblically". I’d really like to have a book of my own to study.
Greg, CA
Dear Brother John,
I’ve been incarcerated for 21 months and love the Lord and the Word of God. This workbook that you offer sounds like some material that I would like to read. I am totally indigent without any kind of help or support from the inside or outside. I would appreciate it if you would send me this workbook.
Malik, LA
Dear Ron,
Sorry for being a stranger. While in the county jail I was passing your book around so others could read it. So you will probably be getting some requests from there. I am now in prison. I was able to bring the book in. So now I can begin my study. I have enclosed an order from my cellie so we can study together.
Chris, CA
Dear Brother,
I did receive your letter today as well as the forms with it. I observed all of your words very well and I am thankful to have you as someone who cares and teaches with good guidance with many directions to turn. I am not able to send you $5 but if I could then I would brother. I would still love to have the book to better my life.
Vernard, CA
Dear Ronald John,
I’m currently reading your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". Ron is letting me use it. He is a good friend of mine. He currently witnesses to inmates here at the Federal Correctional Institution. Even though he has life, he is happy. If he had two life sentences, he would be doubly happy. :-) We are currently applying your book in our Bible studies. I would appreciate it if you can send a copy of your book.
Xavier, IN
Dear Brothers,
I am an Hispanic Indian with a life sentence. I would like to request my free book of "Change Your Life Biblically". I would like to take a new lease on life. If there is anything else you can send me free to help a fellow Christian, I’d appreciate it very much.
Jose, CA
To Whom It May Concern,
A fellow cellmate showed me your book and being a Christian I found it very well thought out and makes sharing the Gospel easy to digest. Inmates too find Jesus here and I want to do my share. Please send me a copy so that I may share with another this gift of the Word. Your ministry touches my heart and I would like to help when I get out.
Theodor, CA
Dear Ron,
My book, "Change Your Life Biblically" was lost with all my property while I was out to court. Is there anyway you can send me another copy? As the book really means a lot to me right now as I am in the process of sanctifying myself and cleansing myself of all unrighteousness. Your book has been invaluable to me and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it.
James, CO
Dear Christian Brother John,
I would truly love to express sincerely how much I truly enjoy reading your book. It truly has been and will be for the rest of my life a blessing to me and others around me. I have truly found it of much joy to have done this study. I thank you for showing me a lot of new stuff that I have not learned over the twenty four years I have studied the Bible. And more than likely, I would not have learned in the future with out the helps of this God -given book of yours. This is one of those kind of books, but much better. You start reading it and you just can’t lay it down. It has so much interesting truths in it that the Holy Spirit just keeps on giving you as you study on. I know when I get to a yard where I can get out every day, I will share these truths with one man a day. I would like to put together a small group of men each Sabbath to study your book and the Word of God.
Ronald, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
I do appreciate your "old man" letters. :-) Also, I just had a nice letter from your son. The father-son team: watch out! Just got off lock down today. After 22 days of no sunlight it was awesome to walk among God’s beautiful creation even if it’s behind concrete walls. I need to be a little more strict on my food intake where possible. I don’t need to be dramatic and starve myself, but the selection of food here if you have funds is very pleasing if you attack it from a wisdom standpoint. I need to switch to Decaf tea and coffee. I mean I don’t drink a whole lot of coffee, but caffeine is still a system stimulant. So I need to break away from that also. I figured if a believer believed the Sabbath he would accept all truth from the mouth of God. But it seems people only want to go so far. Then stop. Sometimes I catch myself only wanting to go so far. Then I have to deny more self to go further. I mean, I know Jesus, you and your son are my true friends. It’s just nice to find others out there like us. I know from the newsletter there are quite a few inmates.
Preston, IN
Brother Ronald,
I was corresponding with you before from prison. But I went out to court. I also did your study book. It was a blessing to me because it helped me understand God’s word better. Now I understand that it is possible to be perfect, just like my heavenly Father is perfect. I see within myself now, and I see that this book has given me understanding to become a better person, better servant and a better representative of God’s Word. But when I went out to court, I had to send all my property home. Therefore, I would love to get my hands on your study book if it’s possible. If you have already published it in Spanish, please send it to me in Spanish. If not, English is just fine.
Gilberto, SC
Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
Thank you for the letter. I cut out the cat and put it on my wall. I am very interested in the workbook. I am unable to even send stamped envelopes to help pay the cost.
Cyrus,
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing you because I’ve seen your book, "Change Your Life Biblically" and I really like it. I would like to have one so that I could study it and learn more about the Bible for myself. I am indigent as of now but I do have a few stamps that I can send you. I would really, really appreciate it if you would send me one of your books so that I can continue with my studies.
Alex, AZ
Dear Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
I am reading the book called, "Change Your Life Biblically". And yes, it is a real good book. And no, I am not done with the book. I am writing this letter because I am having a hard time. I heard my grandmother is real sick and I am having no family support. I cry every night to find someone that will love me. I am 25 years old. I think about my kids but my baby’s mother don’t want nothing to do with me. I can’t ever see my kids and that hurts a lot. So if you people can find someone that will talk to me about the Bible and I can call when I feel down and out? I am a Crip but I am trying to leave that life alone. There is nothing for me but pain. I saw things you people would not believe. I am trying to start a new life with a wife so please help me out and may God bless you.
Orlanzo, CA
Hi,
I’m an inmate at a parole substance abuse program. I’m writing because I was wondering what kind of material you guys can help me out with? I’m 25 and have spent the last 5 years doing this. This time with God’s help I’m hoping to stay out for good.
Fernando, CA
Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
Thank you for making such a book to help me further my knowledge on Jesus Christ our Saviour. I really liked the book. It was very enlightening and interesting. I was wondering if there was an updated series of the book. There is not a library that has a lot of nothing in it. Plus I would rather read the best of books out there.
Matthew, PA
Dear Brother John,
Yes, I would like another set of answer sheets in order to try again, please. After reading part one in your book, the Bible takes on a whole new meaning. It’s like I’ve never read it before. So thank you. I’ve been reading your book all day every day. That book, whoever wrote it, is a truly blessed person. Thank you for helping me understand.
Pablo, FL
Dear Brother Ronald,
I hope this letter finds you and yours in the very best of health and spirits. Hey, sorry you haven’t heard from me lately. I’m just hanging around here in reception going through a few trials and waiting to be processed to a permanent yard. You know how that goes. Basically, I’m in PC. I’m a validated drop-out. For years I ran with a prison gang, "Nazi Low Riders". (Definitely on the list of the 10 stupidest things I’ve done since I was 10.) Anyway, finally a couple of years ago I decided to drop-out. I’m telling you this so you know what a messed-up individual I was before Jesus Christ changed my heart. Now I love Christ more than anything in my life. And through His loving kindness, I’m able to love His children. Being here on this yard has made me so strong in my faith. I live around the very ones Jesus came to save. I wanna thank you for your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". I’m on my second trip through this most wonderful read. I never loved anything in my life, except my life. And at times I never even cared about that. Oh, sure, I thought I loved my children and my family. But I know now that I was the most uncaring person: selfish, self-centered. I lived for the gang I belonged to and the things I could get out of it: sex and drugs were my idols. I can’t believe I actually hated people because of the color of their skin or their beliefs. I used to go out of my way to trip-up "Bible Thumpers". Today I’m a "Bible Thumper". Well, that’s what they tell me around here. Pretty cool, huh? I love it when I hear someone (behind my back) say something like, "He acts like Jesus", or "Bible Thumper". I’m like, "Yeah" that’s the biggest compliment anyone can give me. I just wanted you to know how much your book has changed an old hateful heart. Thank you. Your book really has played a big part in who I am today. I loved finally understanding the prophesies of Daniel & Revelations. And Romans 7! I believed in the Bible, but now I believe the Bible.
Tim, CA
"The tempted one needs to understand the true force of the will. This is the governing power in the nature of man--the power of decision, of choice. Everything depends on the right action of the will. Desires for goodness and purity are right, so far as they go; but if we stop here, they avail nothing. Many will go down to ruin while hoping and desiring to overcome their evil propensities. They do not yield the will to God. They do not choose to serve Him.
"God has given us the power of choice; it is ours to exercise. We cannot change our hearts, we cannot control our thoughts, our impulses, our affections. We cannot make ourselves pure, fit for God’s service. But we can choose to serve God, we can give Him our will; then He will work in us to will and to do according to His good pleasure. Thus our whole nature will be brought under the control of Christ.
"Through the right exercise of the will, an entire change may be made in the life. By yielding up the will to Christ, we ally ourselves with divine power. We receive strength from above to hold us steadfast. A pure and noble life, a life of victory over appetite and lust, is possible to everyone who will unite his weak, wavering human will to the omnipotent, unwavering will of God. {MH 176}
Folks, we are thinking of providing inmate art and handicraft for sale on our web site. This would help our inmates, those who have received a certificate, earn much needed funding for their "toiletries". Those things are hard to come by in prison. Things such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste and other things that make life tolerable. For those of you not in prison, just stop and think how unpleasant life would be without those items in your life.
If you would be willing to purchase such items, please let me know so I can make a determination if the work involved in such a project would be worth the while.
In the mean time, you inmates who would be interested in such a project, please write me and let me know what hobby craft and art you can offer. Keep in mind, no jewelry or necklaces, etc. But those who can draw and offer their services, to those who can make picture frames, cup holders, lamps and wallets, etc.
True Christianity is helping the poor and blessing those who are in need. This ministry is dedicated to being like Jesus in all we do. We want to be an extension of your love. You may not be able to help the homeless on the street or serve at a food bank or soup kitchen, but through this little ministry you can still fulfill the invitation of Jesus to help the poor and needy.
Folks, it seems we may have to sell the property to raise funds for the ministry. Not enough donations are coming in. It breaks my heart.
Love in Christ,
Ron
The Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Psalm 84:11