PRAISE THE LORD
Prison Mission Report
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
"The body is the only medium through which the mind and the soul are developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of souls directs his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers. His success here means the surrender to evil of the whole being. The tendencies of our physical nature, unless under the dominion of a higher power, will surely work ruin and death.
"The body is to be brought into subjection. The higher powers of the being are to rule. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by divine grace, is to bear sway in our lives.
"The requirements of God must be brought home to the conscience. Men and women must be awakened to the duty of self-mastery, the need of purity, freedom from every depraving appetite and defiling habit. They need to be impressed with the fact that all their powers of mind and body are the gift of God, and are to be preserved in the best possible condition for His service.
"In that ancient ritual which was the gospel in symbol, no blemished offering could be brought to God’s altar. The sacrifice that was to represent Christ must be spotless. The word of God points to this as an illustration of what His children are to be--"a living sacrifice," "holy and without blemish," "well-pleasing to God." Romans 12:1, R.V., margin; Ephesians 5:27.
"Apart from divine power, no genuine reform can be effected. Human barriers against natural and cultivated tendencies are but as the sandbank against the torrent. Not until the life of Christ becomes a vitalizing power in our lives can we resist the temptations that assail us from within and from without.
"Christ came to this world and lived the law of God, that man might have perfect mastery over the natural inclinations which corrupt the soul. The Physician of soul and body, He gives victory over warring lusts. He has provided every facility, that man may possess completeness of character. " {MH 130}
Dear Ronald John,
I have no relative to write or friend on the out side to write and it gets lonely not writing letters or getting mail from someone. I’ve been incarcerated 14 years on a 20 year sentence and to make matters worse I’m adseg. As you can see, I’m indigent. Texas does not pay their prisoners. So if you could, please send the work book.
Willie, TX
To Whom It May Concern,
Thank you for the book. I’m starting to read it. Maybe this book will answer some of my questions and with it my faith will become stronger. I believe in our Lord Jesus Christ. Somewhere in my path of life is where I let my faith go and I’m in here in prison. I gave a few of those pamphlets you gave me to pass out. All I could do is spread the word that there is a God up in heaven above. I will read the book. It will give me a better understanding of what the Word of God is.
Christine, CA
Dear Ron,
I am new with my walk with God. I need help. I’ve been down 10 years and I’ve answered the knock at the door. I would like to read "Change Your Life Biblically".
Louie, CA
Dear JCPM,
After entering into a situation where I chose to follow my will rather than God’s will, I have been incarcerated and it seems I will be here a while. I have since put my faith in the Lord and have accepted His gift of grace. I understand your organization offers free Bible study lessons to people who are incarcerated. I would be very interested in learning more about God’s Word. Would you be so kind as to send more information or possibly introductory lessons? I thank God for the blessings in my life. My wife delivered our healthy baby girl last month and they are both doing well. But could you please also put us on your pray list?
Brian, TN
Dear JCPM,
I am an inmate and a friend of mine gave me this address to inquire to you about a book called, "Change Your Life Biblically". I read the first page and was taken by it instantly and would like my own copy to read to further my education in the Bible to become an evangelist minister. I would like to read about other’s experiences to relate with my own to educate others. If it isn’t too much to ask, a few fellow inmates saw me writing you and asked if they may also receive your book. They gave me their information to give to you.
Dustin, CA
Dear Ronald John,
I have heard about your workbook, "Change Your Life Biblically". I am totally indigent. I have no financial help from inside or outside of prison. I would like to complete your workbook but I cannot afford 10 stamps. Please send me a workbook as a blessing. I will share news of your workbook to others here in prison with me.
Lati, CA
Dear Brother Ronald,
I thank you so much for your letter. You are right. I do need a wake up. Why am I such a fool? I do befriend anyone, but I definitely "see" now how I was a coward and did not help my brother in the proper Christian way. Instead of shrinking back and only thinking of myself and my safety, I should have stepped forward and truly helped him like a true soldier of Christ. That’s one of my major character defects. I have been a coward most of my life always hiding behind something. Now I "see" I can hid behind the living God and He will always protect. I must trust and obey. I know arguing over beliefs is just pride and ego. I always sit down and try to just read from the Word. Just somehow, others want to debate with me. I made it down to the Jehovah’s Witness way again and decided we would just focus on Jesus. No real good study happened. All they wanted was to prove that they were right. I went back and gave one a CYLB flyer and some scriptures about the Ten Commandments. I’m sure my sit down study time with them is over because all they want to do is prove the JW’s are truth. I just want to share the Word of Jesus and live His way. I’m glad I met them though because it showed me how pride and ego can seep in and make you want to be "Mr. Right". I just want to be a faithful servant of Christ and my fellow man. Not just say I believe this or that but live what I believe. I’ve noticed these past few weeks I am going to have to quit playing so much handball with the other inmates. Their negative behavior, arrogant talking and always wanting to win and always blaming someone else for losing are not helping me in my character changes with Jesus. I like to enjoy exercise but not like that. I need to just get back to doing my own thing, mind my own business and do my duty for the Lord. It makes life so much happier. I’ll admit brother, it is so hard to force your own heart to change allegiance from evil to good. Jesus is the greatest and deserves my whole heart. Yet my character is still messed up a little and I see how I come short a lot. Thank God He is there to show me my mistakes so I can make better choices. Well, I’m just sitting here on my bed enjoying the rest from all of the cleaning I have just done in getting prepared to meet Jesus on His holy day. I pray I really start to change so I "act" and "do" as a Christian is supposed too. Being fake, shallow and hypocritical is falsehood and has no place in my heart. I thank you for being there for me brother. For writing such "tough love" and being true to who we are supposed to be as followers of Christ.
Preston, IN
Dear Brother,
My cellie sent for your book, "Change Your Life Biblically". At first I wasn’t sure if I’d want it or not. Over the years I’ve gone through quite a few different "books" about the Bible and so many of them REALLY leave me cold! But when he received his last night and I had the chance to go through it, I said right then that I like it and want one!! I want to thank you in advance for it and for putting out a book about my favorite subject that goes so well with the Bible.
Bill, CA
Dear JCPM,
I have just now found your newsletter in the dayroom and have read it. Man, it sure is a wonderful read. Then I came across the information about the change your life book and I would like to receive a copy of it. Although I have changed my life biblically already, there is still more rooms in my everyday life that need more fulfillment with the Word of the Lord. So I praise God that you have a tool to help me achieve that goal. I would also like to receive your newsletter also. Thank you for your devotion of spreading the Word.
William, CA
Dear Brother in Christ,
I received the book, "Change Your Life Biblically" and I want to truly THANK YOU so much for such an awesome privilege. I will be honest with you, I’m having a little trouble understanding the 1st lesson. I am not the best at remembering stuff. I’m not going to give up on the study. I will complete your book if it takes me a year to do it. I send my love and respects to you and will pray for you and your ministry.
Rick, CA
Hello,
I received your packet that you sent today. I was glad to hear from your ministry. I’m totally indigent but if I could I would like to request to get the workbook that you offer. I do not have anybody on the outside to help me money wise. But if you will send me the workbook anyway it would be much appreciated. I’m a lifer and I have been here for almost 5 years now. If you will send me the workbook for our group I’m sure that it would help us with our walk with God.
Bryan, CA
Hi,
I am writing because I was given some names of some free Bible correspondence sources for inmates. I would like to receive your course for the Bible studies. I have no family all have past away. I am looking to correspond with a mentor, someone that can help me with my walk with Jesus. I read my Bible daily and I have questions on some things about the Bible. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
Anthony, CA
Dear Brother Ronald,
I received your letter and I must confess, it was not my intention to "break the bank" of your ministry. I have a parole date sometime in 2100. I spend about 23 1/2 hours a day inside my cell on lock down due to the lack of staff. I have no job and no way to get a job. There are over 100 people ahead of me on the waiting list for a job.
Mark, CA
Greetings Bro.,
Just a short note to say thank you and God bless. I would like to do your Bible study but don’t have the funds or no way to get them. But if you can find it in your heart to set me up, cool, if not, it’s not meant to be.
Steven, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping to change the lives of strangers, friends, family, Christians and nonbelievers and myself. Again, thank you. With your book I’ve been able to answer questions, teach and give access to information many had no idea existed. By the will of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ His Holy Spirit caused you to write the book, "Change Your Life Biblically" and also by His will this information has found me. I am sad to say not all believe. I hold Bible studies with another inmate but he doesn’t agree with you/our belief in teaching what Jesus taught and we know that is: Be Perfect, Stop Sinning and Obey Our Ten Commandments. He believes our Ten Commandments were only given to the children of Israel and not us. He also quotes Romans about the Law and even says the Sabbath isn’t for us either. You have gone over that same topic in your book but he won’t listen and I’m so afraid he is going to start teaching the other inmates his beliefs in our Bible study. I don’t believe our Ten Commandments were nailed to the cross when Jesus died for us. My soul and spirit cannot fail in showing the truth to our Lord’s flock. Can you please help in anyway possible.
Curtis, VA
Hello,
Just a quick letter to once again thank you for opening my eyes to the truth. I’ve read the book twice and I’m having trouble answering them all so I’m hoping you can help me out with the answers I could not answer. It’s so much information. I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed. This is one of the top 3 books I’ve ever read. It has turned on so many light switches and brightened my way of living. The test is very interesting and I answered them to the best of my ability. I hope to hear from you and that we may become better and closer friends. I need a friend like you after having nothing but fake, phony, back biting so called friends. I also would like to join your ministry for I feel I can be of much help.
Rick, CA
Brother Ron,
I figured it was about time to give you an update regarding my study, my walk, my case, my life, etc. Since reading "Change Your Life Biblically" I’ve read through it one time and am now on my second reading. Today is Saturday, the Sabbath. I’m following your directions regarding the use of the day. Keeping it holy unto the Lord. I’m refraining from all secular activities. I’ve always wondered about Sunday worship. Why we do it, where it comes from, etc.? Traditionally, Sunday has been the day I’ve always gone to church. I do need and want to understand the truth. I agree with what you say regarding the world wanting to change, substitute its own way for the truth. For now I’m keeping my mind open regarding this issue and following another piece of advice you offer: try this way for 6 months and see if your life changes. On a daily basis I implement Jesus’ teachings into my life and yes, I am noticing differences. Small things, but "things" none the less. Example: telling the truth and standing on it. Persecution -you bet- but the result: awesome! As I go through your course I realize there are many areas regarding Christianity that I’ve been taught differently. But I’m finding what you portray to us seems to "hold water". I’ve moved and things seem to be looking up. God really is good. Not to mention loving and forgiving. My letter writing break is over and it’s time for me to get back to my studies.
Kenneth, CA
Dear Brother Ron,
Thank you so much for responding to my short note. I’m also seeking the answers to life. I’ve been in prison for the last 14 years. What I’m doing is not working. I need truth. I was hearing some guys talk about your book. So I jumped in and asked for your address. I’m totally indigent. I’m sorry. I wish I could help. I give you my word that I will continue to write and when and if God blesses me with stamps I will help out the next man. Ron, I’m really trying to change my life. I love Jesus Christ with all my heart. It’s new for me, but I’m here to stay. I’m do to get out in the next year or two. I don’t want to fall back into the same old habits. Your book would be good.
Louie, CA
Dear Brother Ronald John,
Greetings and the Lord’s blessings upon you and your mighty ministry of faith and devotion. As always I look forward to receiving your letters of spiritual encouragement and your sound counsel. I am doing really well, actually. I’ve cut all sugars from my diet such as cookies, cakes, and other desserts and the effect is simply phenomenal. I feel invigorated and have had a noticeable difference, loss of fatty tissue. I also increased my workouts to include a second workout on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I haven’t felt this healthy in years. Feels good. And of course I am taking care to continue to build on my spiritual health as well. I did a study on making sure that one’s spiritual health should be of the most important and God will bless you with the other. Minding your physical health without spiritual reasonableness can actually be a way for Satan to get a wedge in. So I always thank the Lord for my health and my ability to work out. My cellie says being a Christian is a cop out. I feel sorry for him because Satan has such a grip on him. He’s decent as a cellie, but he really needs a wake-up call from God. Being a Christian is being a work in progress and the more you learn, the more you build, the more freedom you have. To develop Christian attributes and attitudes is simple: study the Scriptures with the proper spiritual attitude and in prayer for understanding Jesus is awesome. Thank you for your wise counsel about the OCS Agent’s lack of response. I am prayerful and thankful to Lord Jesus for what I do have and what He’s done with me. I’m just being patient and continuing my program.
Joseph, CA
Jesus Christ Prison Ministry,
I was talking to an inmate that is one of my good friends here. We are in the same cell block and he handed me this book called, "Change Your Life Biblically". I said OK. I go up to my cell and check it out during count time. I did that and I was very interested in the book because of all types of truths that it was telling me. I’m a firm believer in Jesus Christ so when I started reading I said to myself, I need to get me one of these books so I can read it whenever I can cause the first book belonged to my buddy.
John, TN
Hi,
I was hoping maybe you could please send me a copy of the book, "Change Your Life Biblically". My friend in here with me let me see his and I like it. So he gave me your address. Anyway, I thank you so much.
Ray, VA
JCPM,
Thank you for responding to my request for the workbook, "Change Your Life Biblically". I’m sorry to say at this time I am totally indigent. I pray to be self-sufficient in the near future. At this time I cannot send any stamps. I am serving a 24-life sentence at this time. So I ask that you allow me to the blessing of your workbook. It sounds awesome. I will, when I am able, send what help I can for your ministry. I will try to seek out those who can help. I look forward to the workbook, if possible.
Ken, CA
Greetings Brother Ronald,
Thank you for getting back at me as fast as you did. It just goes to show He hears and He moves. I’m writing to you to let you know that it would be an honor to work for Jesus in the ministry. I am requesting for more information on receiving my book, "Change Your Life Biblically". I have inclosed the only stamps I have and I’m praying that it will do. I know in my heart that God will provide. I’m really looking forward to hearing back from you. I’m very excited about what God has in store for my life. I know the blessings are endless. Well brother Ronald, I will cut this short I know you must be busy plowing away building the kingdom one soul at a time.
Frankie, CA
Dear Ron,
You are welcome. Incidentally, I have been gradually increasing my donations to your projects. So, it turns out that the more I contribute, the more I have to spend for myself. While that appears contradictory, I have been able to buy more clothing for myself, and still have a plush checking account.
Joseph, TX (former inmate and student of JCPM)
Dear Ron,
Praise God for your work for Jesus Christ. I just got done reading your newsletter. Thank you for sending it to me. It does my heart good to see others like me seeking Jesus. I can’t wait to get started studying your book "Change Your Life Biblically". So many say good things about CYLB that I want to read and spread the gospel. I will share it with others and help the Holy Spirit do His work in changing hearts. Thank you again Ron. God bless you.
Louie, CA
To Whom It May Concern,
I received your address reading "the Rock" newsletter through another ministry. I am currently incarcerated and am interested in and would like to receive a copy of "Change Your Life Biblically" and any other newsletter and/or literature you can provide me.
Ralph, CA
Mr. R. John,
I received your letter today. Thank you for getting back with me. I’ve read about your funding. I have no family out there and I have no money. I would very much like to receive your workbook. I don’t have people to write, that’s why I wanted to get on with a mentor. I read you have a pen-pal web site. That would be nice. Can you find it in your heart to send me a workbook?
Anthony, CA
Dear Brother,
Christian greetings from those of us at this prison. Sister Dot from a local church showed us a part of your DVD last Sabbath. I asked her to send the information to acquire your book, "Change Your Life Biblically".
Kelly, TN
"Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings--as much a duty as it is to pray. If we are heaven-bound, how can we go as a band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the way to our Father’s house?
Those professed Christians who are constantly complaining, and who seem to think cheerfulness and happiness a sin, have not genuine religion. Those who take a mournful pleasure in all that is melancholy in the natural world, who choose to look upon dead leaves rather than to gather the beautiful living flowers, who see no beauty in grand mountain heights and in valleys clothed with living green, who close their senses to the joyful voice which speaks to them in nature, and which is sweet and musical to the listening ear--these are not in Christ. They are gathering to themselves gloom and darkness, when they might have brightness, even the Sun of Righteousness arising in their hearts with healing in His beams.
"Often your mind may be clouded because of pain. Then do not try to think. You know that Jesus loves you. He understands your weakness. You may do His will by simply resting in His arms.
"It is a law of nature that our thoughts and feelings are encouraged and strengthened as we give them utterance. While words express thoughts, it is also true that thoughts follow words. If we would give more expression to our faith, rejoice more in the blessings that we know we have,--the great mercy and love of God,--we should have more faith and greater joy. No tongue can express, no finite mind can conceive, the blessing that results from appreciating the goodness and love of God. Even on earth we may have joy as a wellspring, never failing, because fed by the streams that flow from the throne of God." MH 250-251
"Then let us educate our hearts and lips to speak the praise of God for His matchless love. Let us educate our souls to be hopeful and to abide in the light shining from the cross of Calvary. Never should we forget that we are children of the heavenly King, sons and daughters of the Lord of hosts. It is our privilege to maintain a calm repose in God.
"‘Let the peace of God rule in your hearts; . . . and be ye thankful.’ Colossians 3:15. Forgetting our own difficulties and troubles, let us praise God for an opportunity to live for the glory of His name. Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our hearts for these tokens of His loving care. When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night, let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven.
"When someone asks how you are feeling, do not try to think of something mournful to tell in order to gain sympathy. Do not talk of your lack of faith and your sorrows and sufferings. The tempter delights to hear such words. When talking on gloomy subjects, you are glorifying him. We are not to dwell on the great power of Satan to overcome us. Often we give ourselves into his hands by talking of his power. Let us talk instead of the great power of God to bind up all our interests with His own. Tell of the matchless power of Christ, and speak of His glory. All heaven is interested in our salvation. The angels of God, thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand, are commissioned to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. They guard us against evil and press back the powers of darkness that are seeking our destruction. Have we not reason to be thankful every moment, thankful even when there are apparent difficulties in our pathway? {MH 253}
Thank you folks for your love and support. August was a poor month. Many of you must have taken a vacation. We pray that hearts will be touch so we can get the ministry out of debt. so much to do, so little to do it with.
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