PRAISE THE LORD
Prison Mission Report
Dear Brothers and Sister in Christ,
"Judge not, that ye be not judged." Matthew 7:1.
The effort to earn salvation by one’s own works inevitably leads men to pile up human exactions as a barrier against sin. For, seeing that they fail to keep the law, they will devise rules and regulations of their own to force themselves to obey. All this turns the mind away from God to self. His love dies out of the heart, and with it perishes love for his fellow men. A system of human invention, with its multitudinous exactions, will lead its advocates to judge all who come short of the prescribed human standard. The atmosphere of selfish and narrow criticism stifles the noble and generous emotions, and causes men to become self-centered judges and petty spies.
The Pharisees were of this class. They came forth from their religious services, not humbled with a sense of their own weakness, not grateful for the great privileges that God had given them. They came forth filled with spiritual pride, and their theme was, "Myself, my feelings, my knowledge, my ways." Their own attainments became the standard by which they judged others. Putting on the robes of self-dignity, they mounted the judgment seat to criticize and condemn.
The people partook largely of the same spirit, intruding upon the province of conscience and judging one another in matters that lay between the soul and God. It was in reference to this spirit and practice that Jesus said, "Judge not, that ye be not judged." That is, do not set yourself up as a standard. Do not make your opinions, your views of duty, your interpretations of Scripture, a criterion for others and in your heart condemn them if they do not come up to your ideal. Do not criticize others, conjecturing as to their motives and passing judgment upon them.
"Judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts." 1 Corinthians 4:5. We cannot read the heart. Ourselves faulty, we are not qualified to sit in judgment upon others. Finite men can judge only from outward appearance. To Him alone who knows the secret springs of action, and who deals tenderly and compassionately, is it given to decide the case of every soul.
"Thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things." Romans 2:1. Thus those who condemn or criticize others, proclaim themselves guilty, for they do the same things. In condemning others, they are passing sentence upon themselves, and God declares that this sentence is just. He accepts their own verdict against themselves.
"These clumsy feet, still in the mire,
Go crushing blossoms without end;
These hard, well-meaning hands we thrust
Among the heartstrings of a friend." {MB 123-4}
Dear Brother Ronald,
I apologize for not answering your letter sooner. I misplaced it and had thought I had answered it already and have been waiting for your reply. Sorry. Now, as for what I am doing and putting to use in my life out of what I have read. I am being obedient to Christ’s teachings. I am following the Golden Rule along with all the other Commandments. I am telling others about Christ and passing out the brochures trying to get others interested. Many tell me I’m being a legalist. But what I have seen from those who call themselves "Christians" here, they are a selfish, hateful bunch who think they can live anyway they want to and will still get to heaven. I’ve tried talking to them but most of them won’t listen. But it is so obviously simple if one will just read it and understand it. But I will not give up. Some have noticed the difference in my life and have asked me about it. So I will continue to tell them and try to get them to send in the requests as well.
John, FL
Dear John,
I am willing to work for Jesus in this ministry. I received the letter and when I receive the book, "Change Your Life Biblically", I will let you know. I’m grateful for having people that are helping people learn. I’m going to take advantage of the Christian training. I don’t want to come back to this place and I know if I start following the Ten Commandments I would start living more strict. I would like if your ministry could be my tool for my problems.
Carlos, CA
Brother Ronald,
I’ve been doing OK. Just trying to stay focused on what’s ahead of me and pay no mind to what’s behind me. I’ve been taking it upon myself to do the right thing, say the right thing and think the right thing. I’ve set certain goals for myself. One of them is being to rid myself of this pride I carry around with me. I’ve been carrying it around with me most of my life. So far I’ve been doing pretty good because I’ve been learning to let go and let God. I know I need to put more trust in the Creator and not in myself. I’ve learned the secrets of being slow to speak, slow to becoming angry and quick to listen. Those were big problems for me at one point. I would like to thank you for your rebuke and correction and for guiding me too a better path.
Champ, IL
Hi,
I really want to know God. My celly has introduced me to your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". I would like to receive a copy for myself please. I want to personally know God myself with the help of your book. I really want to change my life around and change my ways and get to know God. Please help me out, I need your help.
Thomas, CA
Ronald John,
I have been waiting to see if I was going to be here for a while before I sent you my web site info. It looks like I will be here a bit so I will send it soon. I have also been working on others, trying to get them started on the road to truth. I have been planting seeds anyway. So many people are lost especially when it comes to following God’s Commandments and especially keeping His 7th day (Saturday) Sabbath. Wow, has it been a battle. Any ways, I will continue doing my part in fulfilling my part in the great commission. It will be great to hear from you. Here are a few stamps and my new address.
Tracy, CA
Ronald John,
First of all, thank you for sending ‘Change Your Life Biblically". I really appreciate it. There was no problem at the package window. They just said, "Here’s your book", and that was that. I was just sitting here writing to you and the C/O brought your newsletter to the door. Wow, I see you got your hands full as far as pen-pals go. Your book has been well received here at Ironwood State Prison and if your name is as popular in other prisons as it is here, then your ministry is truly a testament to the change that one persevering Christian can bring about. Thanks again for everything. I will spread the word about you and your book. May it keep going strong and bring multitudes to Christ,
Johnny, CA
Hey Brother Ron,
I can see God’s words through you are in much demand. Your concepts are not only intriguing but also in plan everyday living. A person can only get out what they put in. You’ve blessed me in my most neediest of times with the confidence of proof that you proclaim. At this time I would like to bless you with my thanks for your precious book and words of encouragement. What a beautiful thing you have done for me in my most serious times of need.
Rocky, CA
My Dear Brothers in Christ,
I have been doing a lot of thinking and reading your book and I come to understand that I have not been following Christ the way I should. I know that I’m a sinner and need God in my life. I can always stop doing drugs and all that other things, but I need help with this biggest one. I have truly asked God to take it away from me but it is hard to stop everything that has to do with lust and sex sin. I give it go God and some how Satan put something in my life that gets me right back started again.
Hillman, CA
Sir,
I would love to do this Bible study. But I’m indigent and have been for over 6 months since my wife had a stroke. A Christian friend of mine here gave me the pamphlet and told me to send it in. I’d love to do it. I recently gave my life to the Lord and am serious about changing. I got 5 years done on an aggravated life sentence. I know living for the Lord is the way to go. I want to have peace within myself. I want to learn more about the Lord.
Michael, TX
Hello Ron,
Just a few quick lines to let you know I am doing well. I got a pen-pal letter from my pen-pal web site. He seems nice. I have started my college courses. I took counseling 105 and history 180 which covers the ancient civilizations all the way up through the reformation. I’m looking forward to learning about that time line from secular books. I started my study group and we have about 12 guys (4 have your book). We have the library room to meet Saturday mornings. There is a DVD set of prophecy from Amazing Facts so I started them on that. This week I will address one topic like "Grace"’ for 20 minutes or so, then watch a DVD, then discuss the DVD for the remaining time. I’m just trying to get comfortable leading a group. If I send you the name of the pastor here, can you send me your DVD? I’m going to speak to the chaplain about getting the big room in the chapel Saturday afternoons cause I have about 5 more guys for my group and I expect it to grow.
Danny, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
I’m sending $10 worth of stamps to help you guys out. I don’t want anything in return. I’d love to send more stamps. I probably will as the funds come in. I get your newsletters and your prompt responses to my letters. You guys must have a very efficient system worked out. Reading the last newsletter I felt bad for you. When things happen unexpectedly it is a bummer. But you have to keep your chin up and push through. In your last letter you mentioned a 5 volume set of life changing books. That has sent me into a flurry to finish the workbook. But boy the questions are hard. It takes a lot of rereading to make sure they are right. It’s a hobby of mine, I love history. It also seems funny to me that the people of Israel were so stubborn. The Lord hooked them up so good, yet they kept spitting in His face. I have some bad news. Ron, I’ve never been to jail. And I got celled up with a "Christian" man. He introduced me to the Lord. It was a huge help and lifted me up high. I thought I could trust him. He helped me with my defense. So he goes to court and doesn’t get the deal he wants. So he makes up a story about me which helps him out. It lands me in the hole for 21 days. They give him a weekend pass and now he is on the run. The whole time I’ve been here I have looked to this man for help and he stabs me in the back, using the Lord’s name to do it. He preached the gospel and followed the 7th day Sabbath and seemed so real, when he was just faking it. Ron, I was truly crushed. Very hurt. I turned to God. He got me out of the hole and back to my unit. The true Christians told me he did the same thing to 2 other cellmates. However, now I have learned not to trust just anyone and to stick by the Lord at all times. Thanks Ron. May God bless you.
Michael, CA
Brother Ron,
I just wanted to check in and let you know how my walk is coming along. I’m doing good studying a lot and still exercising and letting people know we must stop sinning. Only a few will hear what I’m saying and most aren’t ready to give up their sin or hear the truth. But I will not give up. And yes, please send me the packet you talked about when you get it together. I would like to share the truth with people. I just could use some guidance please. I am proud to tell you I lost 38 lbs in the 4 months I’ve had your book. It brought my food idol to light. I thank you. Know that you and JCPM are in my prayers. I love Jesus and I’m keeping His commandments with His power. I love you guys. God bless.
Jonathan, TX
To Whom This May Concern,
I’ve recently been getting into the Word and would like to request this book that I heard was really good. The name of it is, "Change Your Life Biblically".
Fabian, CA
I received your address from a friend. He received a book from you. I don’t recall the name, but he recommended that I write to you, so I am.
Jaime, CA
To Ron,
I received your letter the other day and as always it’s good to hear from you. I went over volume I of your book and read a lot of the scriptures inside to see how I can better apply what I learned to my life. The first thing that stood out when I read your book was the simplicity of it. I’ve read a lot over the years but never has it been put into a form that I could understand. I would read things and have so many unanswered questions afterward. But after volume I a lot of my questions were answered and I even became interested in reading more of the book. It showed me how to humble myself and to put my trust into a power greater than me. Redemption from the pitfalls of sin and how important it is to keep the Ten Commandments. It showed me how easily it is for one to get caught up in the many schisms outside of following the Commandments and how you can easily be misled by false teachings. So I strive now to become more Christ-like by following the Commandments instead of the many man-made laws. It’s a struggle every day to not fall back into a lot of the ways that for so long was my life, but I know that what I’m doing now has taken a huge weight off of my shoulders. There’s a lot of work that needs to be done still, but I know if I stay focused and stay positive all things are possible through the Lord. Finding meaning to life and coming to grips with the demons in my own temple is first and foremost. I know that this walk with Christ is a path that I want in my life. I have no control over the situation I’m in (prison) or how other people act. I can only control how I live my life and respond to what comes my way. My actions should be reflections of my beliefs. To know and understand the real Sabbath (Saturday) and to stick too three very important things that will help me: Stop sinning, be perfect and Obey Jesus’ Commandments. To understand the many revelations revealed inside of the Bible and to ask God for knowledge, wisdom and understanding when I’m studying, so that truth can be revealed to me. My main focus is to obey the commandments, study and learn all that I can about Christianity and to let the Lord’s light shine through me. I’m fairly new to taking this walk with Christ. As I mentioned before, I knew of the Bible but I never took it to seriously. But after so many years of the lifestyle I lived before I knew that I needed to change my ways. I was at first reading your book out of boredom. But after really taking the time to grasp the principles of a better life through Christ, I decided to go in and try it, full heartily. It’s easy to read and understand it and each day opens my eyes to looking at things a whole new way.
Curtis, CA
Dear Ron,
What a joy it must be to have such a wonderful ministry reaching out to hundreds of lost souls. And now what a double joy it must be to not only find one to help you with this wonderful work, but to also have that person be your son. It was because you teach the Sabbath in your study that drew me to your study. I am amazed at this book you wrote. I excitedly dove into your book because you were the 1st of over 30 studies that taught the true Sabbath. I could never do a thing like this. You have a skill and a gift. Know that your book reaches more than may be in contact with you. God brought me a young man who suddenly was eager for God’s Word. He’s a brawler, drunkard, druggy who hangs out with gangs and all sorts of crime and hate. I would have never guessed that he is to be God’s messenger to those people. And he is good at it. Every night we talk about and study God’s Word. Since I finished your book I gave it to him to read and study. He was like a child with a new toy and all excited.
Asgia*Ji, UT
Dear Ron,
When I was unable to find a job, I never thought that I would be able to do something like this. Here it is, almost 0 500 hours on a Monday morning, getting ready to put a small fortune in an envelope and send it to a person I hardly knew, never met, and probably would never meet in this earthly lifetime. But, you have also been a friend who stuck with me while I was in the Penitentiary when it seemed at times that everyone else had written me off. Last night, my brother told me that he had never dreamed that I would ever get out of prison alive. I probably wouldn’t have, either, if I hadn’t spent a lot of time alone in a cell allotted to me. I could leave it for meals, Library, exercise yards, the Day Room, and Infirmary. One of the last things I was doing at the Estelle Unit was working with a Bible Study group in the Day Room, and the Recreation yard. When I got moved to the Hightower Unit for the final months of Rehab on the thirty first of December 2007 to an open dormitory until July 7th, there were other inmates also attending the Sabbath meetings of the United Church of God, so I attended also. The regular Sunday meetings that were also there were so much like Rock Concerts that (extremely loud) I refused to attend more than once, except to view a Mel Gibson film on the agony of Christ. This brings to mind, that no matter how much distress we endure in this life, it is nothing compared to what our Lord and Savior endured for our sake. None of us have the right to complain about what we are suffering, when Jesus suffered for us. He does tell us to share our troubles, and Joys, with each other. In so doing, we can uplift each other in ways that often surprise us.. I am surprised at myself, in this regard.
With high regards, in Christ,
Joseph
Dear Ronald John,
I recently received your letter along with forms to request your workbook. I am completely indigent at this time and will not be receiving money anytime in the future. I am married with two children and we are expecting our third next month. Unfortunately my wife is alone out there trying to survive on an unemployment check by itself. I can not ask her for money. I understand if you can not afford to send me a workbook. I know it is a tough time for everybody these days. I am 36 years old and recently received Christ in my life. I have been to prison several times and it looks like I am going for a 10 year mandatory sentence this time. I want to spend my time learning all I can about Jesus this time. All the hours gambling, tattooing and smoking dope on the rec. yard has not worked for me. Please help if you can. I am very much dedicated to this.
Shawn, FL
Dear JCPM,
I’ve been a criminal all my life. From 8 years old to 47 years old. I have lived the life of crime everyday. I have never gone to church for myself or took God or Jesus for real. But three years ago I was at the end of myself where I could no longer help myself. My criminal life and behaviors had taken over my whole body, mind and soul. The grave yard would to take me, just the people around me. I was forced to think year after year about my life; in and out of prison. I have served the ways of crime all my life and my reward has been prison after prison. I no longer want to serve crime. I want to serve Jesus for the rest of my life. Jesus has touched me and is teaching me to seek truth. I found your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". What I have read so far is truth. I have been doing other studies by myself because the truth no one wants to hear or know. But I do. So could you please send me your free Bible study. It would help me with the truth of Jesus and help change my life.
Clay, IN
Dear Brother Ron,
I’ve just started reading this book and he is talking about salvation and how it is not by works. And how people think it is OK to sin. It is amazing what’s being taught in these churches. Only through Jesus Christ do we have salvation and no other. And for Jesus to be our "Lord and Saviour" we have to confess and repent of all known sin and come to realize that we are wrong and God is right. People don’t want to think that what they are doing is wrong. They want to blame everyone else including God for their problems. What people need to do is take a look at themselves and stop pointing the finger. We are our own worst enemy. We are the ones that bring trouble into our own lives, not God or others. You know what else gets me. People who think that the church will save you. What a joke. Only Jesus saves. These things were on my mind and just wanted to share them with you.
Anthony, NV
Dear JCPM,
I’m writing you in regards to your book called, "Change Your Life Biblically". I am indigent without help from the outside. My friend has your book and I have seen it and would like to read it myself.
James, CA
JCPM,
I am a young believer in Jesus Christ and I was wondering if maybe you still give out free, "Change Your Life Biblically"? I would really love to have one of my own so that I could learn more of the Bible and share it with people that want to change their lives. I checked one out from the library here and that’s how I got your address. I really love the pictures in the book about Noah’s Ark. That was an eye opener. It surprised me. Just seeing the pictures got me to fear God and trusting Him with my life. I’m going to do my best to please Him.
Sesar, WA
Dear JCPM,
I am looking to expand my knowledge of the Bible and God’s message. I need Bible studies and anything else I can get that will help me comprehend and understand what the Bible tells me. I have read the Bible over and over and still sometimes become totally confused at what it really says. I am making progress every day to become a more responsible and productive man/child of God. Any help you could give me would be greatly appreciated.
Eric, MO
Dear Ron,
I’m still doing these Bible studies daily and reading your wonderful book in between lessons. I hope that’s OK? I know your book was divinely inspired. That’s why I kind of use it as a magnetic pole. That’s the only way I can explain it. It’s kind of like whenever something is getting deep, I grab your book and it sustains me to keep on going. I hope you understand that everyone says their book is inspired. Even the "Book of Mormon", and we al know what kind of crackpot stuff that was and is. But I got to tell you, "Change Your Life Biblically" it’s pretty well written and has some great messages within. So maybe it is inspired, just from a different place. :-) Your book is great though, and I know it’s inspired from above cause it focuses on Jesus and His message. My neighbor here keeps inviting me to go to their church. I politely decline. Then he tries to tell me that I’m required to attend fellowship. I explain to him I don’t go because there is always some guy that is going to claim you are not really saved unless you practice Christianity in the way they think you should. I don’t need that. Too many different ideals and attitudes and philosophies, etc. So here I sit and I must admit it is easier for me to worship Him in here, away from women, drugs and all the millions of daily temptations which await me on the streets. I think that’s why I’m here. I’m building my armor with the Word of the Lord.
Johnny, CA
"If they ever become industrious and self-supporting, very many must have assistance, encouragement, and instruction. There are multitudes of poor families for whom no better missionary work could be done than to assist them in settling on the land and in learning how to make it yield them a livelihood.
The need for such help and instruction is not confined to the cities. Even in the country, with all its possibilities for a better life, multitudes of the poor are in great need. Whole communities are devoid of education in industrial and sanitary lines. Families live in hovels, with scant furniture and clothing, without tools, without books, destitute both of comforts and conveniences and of means of culture. Imbruted souls, bodies weak and ill-formed, reveal the results of evil heredity and of wrong habits. These people must be educated from the very foundation. They have led shiftless, idle, corrupt lives, and they need to be trained to correct habits.
How can they be awakened to the necessity of improvement? How can they be directed to a higher ideal of life? How can they be helped to rise? What can be done where poverty prevails and is to be contended with at every step? Certainly the work is difficult. The necessary reformation will never be made unless men and women are assisted by a power outside of themselves. It is God’s purpose that the rich and the poor shall be closely bound together by the ties of sympathy and helpfulness. Those who have means, talents, and capabilities are to use these gifts in blessing their fellow men. {MH 192-193}
I pray that each of you will remember Juber and his family each month. In order to support him in his work for Jesus, we need your help. An extra $500 a month would go a very long way. God bless each of you for your love and kindness in supporting this little ministry. I pray that you will remember us when tax returns come.
May God bless you,
Juan, Juber and myself
The Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Psalm 84:11