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PRISONERS OF HOPE October 2010

EDITORIAL..BR N. NKOMO
Priscilla Owens wrote the words to one of my favourite hymns in the late 1800‘s, and I often wondered
what circumstances in her life inspired her to pen them. ―Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife? When the strong tides lift and the cables strain, Will
your anchor drift, or firm remain?‖ It is one of my favourite songs because it as a challenging song,
and yet, in the chorus, it is a song of hope and assurance.

There are so many things in our lives that we tend to take for granted. When we leave home in the
morning we tend to take it for granted that we will return in the evening and meet up with the rest of
our family. When we part from each other‘s company at the end of our Sabbath services, we tend to
take it for granted that we will see each other again the following Sabbath. I understand that faith re-
quires that we believe we have received before we receive and as we pray to God for protection we
ought then to believe we shall meet again while on this earth, but I wonder if the reasons for taking
these things for granted are really a result of faith.

I recall last year talking to my brother and my aunt about how we would meet up at my father‘s funer-
al, and how they (my aunt and brother) would make the necessary arrangements and Iow my family
and I should not worry about getting there early seeing we lived further away, little realising they
would perish in an accident on their way there. We had all taken it for granted that we would meet
there. I remember driving past the scene of a terrible accident in which there had been loss of life and
wondering whether or not the families knew that their loved ones had perished, and imagining that
they had left home expecting to be re-united later in the day, but it was not to be. How does one pick
up the broken pieces after such events? How does one ensure their anchor holds through these storms
of life?

I listened a few weeks ago to a testimony from a brother, about how he has optic atrophy -he is gradu-
ally losing most of his sight. He has been to countless eye specialists who have informed him that the
condition is irreversible. He detailed to us how he has not been able to read for over four years and the
struggles he and his family have had to go through in adjusting to this new set of circumstances. As if
the struggles that they have been going through in relation to this were insufficient, they had the pain
of conceiving, but losing a number of babies pre-term. Coupled with this, he lost his job and only re-
cently got employed after an extended period out of work. The clouds seem to have unfolded their INSIDE THIS ISSUE
wings of strife on this family.
Editorial ......................... ……1
What You Watch ........... .….2
When people get married, they generally have the words ―For better or worse, through sickness and
Preserving The Family .. .….3
health‖, or some variation in their vows. But I wonder how many of us actually consider what it would
Perfection ...................... ..…4
be like if our spouses suffered thus. From the rate of divorce and misery when such circumstances hit
Health In Jesus .............. …..6
families, it is evident that many of us do not take these words seriously. We take it for granted that our
A Channel For God ........ .….8
loved ones will not get so sick that we need to tend for them, especially while we are still at an active
Subtlety Of Fear............. .….9
age. We take it for granted that we will not become destitute and that we will ever have a source of in-
The Mother .................... ….10
come that will keep living somewhat comfortably. The question we however need to ask ourselves is
this: ―Will our anchor hold when situations deteriorate? Will our faith remain intact when wave after
wave of difficulties come our way? Will our anchor drift or firm remain when the strong tides lift and
the cables strain? Will we curse God and live, or will we say Naked came I out of my mother's womb,
and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name
of the LORD?‖

To my human eye, the brother giving the testimony and his wife seemed at ease with what was tran-
spiring in their lives and the adjustments they were making. I did not sense any animosity as a result
of their struggles – Yes, I could see pain and a level of apprehension about the future, but they seemed
to have their struggles did not seem to have affected their faith. I found myself wondering how I would
have coped under such circumstances. How would you cope with the various scenarios above and
their multitude of permutations? My prayer for us is that our response will be: ―We have an anchor
that keeps the soul, Steadfast and sure while the billows roll, Fastened to the Rock which cannot
move, Grounded firm and deep in the Savior‘s love‖ Our only hope.
 YOU ARE WHAT YOU WATCH... BY SR T NKOMO
“A few years ago we did an article about television and how the Gen-
eral Conference had actually resolved, in session, not to allow the per-
formance of theatrics in the church, had resolved that watching such
performances was bad. And how gradually, that had all changed. But
we don‟t rely on what GC says, we rely on what God, and common
sense, shows us. The obvious principle is that we by beholding, we be-
come changed. We are what we watch.
So..what are we watching? I know what I used to watch back then. In
sopaies, there used to be adultery, lying, exaggeration, impure speech… time I turned Sesame Street on. It was about 4 years ago and I wanted
Do I want to emulate such behaviour? Research has shown that even if to know if there were educational programmes that my children and I
we don‟t DO something, by watching it, or thinking it, the neurons in
our brain are activated and your brain basically „believes‟ that it has
performed whatever act it „sees‟ on TV or wherever. The conscious
mind may not be aware of it, but the brain is a fascinating creation and and sometimes we also have mommy and mommy.” In case you missed
it has many facets and levels that take in information we are not aware that, this was essentially pushing the homosexual agenda on impres-
we are perceiving. Research came out recently, stating that there is a
higher percentage of teens who have been exposed to some sort of illic-
it sexual innuendo or activity on TV having premarital sex and more of
them are promiscuous than teens who do not watch TV. By beholding,
we become changed.
Then I look at music videos. Talk about sensuality that has no place in things we may not perceive consciously, but it works them out. Like
the Christian‟s life. The way those video vixens dress,
the way starts like Beyonce dress, gyrate and behave. A
fellow Adventist once mentioned that my daughter‟s pet
name (Her name is Eliora and we sometimes shorten it
to Ella) made them think of a song by Rihanna called
Umbrella. By the time Rihanna came on the scene, I
was ending my „TV- watching‟ life so only got to see a
few of her music videos. This year, due to my curiosity
about this „uUmbrella‟ song that these folk mentioned, I
went online to watch the video. And I didn‟t finish the
video. Side note-once you stop feasting on impurity, if
you go back to it, it seems worse than it ever did when
you used to live on it. I was dismayed at the stuff we
Christians are watching, singing along to and enjoying. Can we honest- become changed.
ly say that God approves of it? Do we seriously think He‟s with us,
singing along, watching the nonsense in these videos? And what impact
do these videos that portray cheap „sexiness‟ have on our youth? I
know when I was a teen, the epitome of beauty was having long fake
hair-as opposed to the kins and curls God gave us black people, long
fake painted nails, a painted face,a specific type of body and ensuring
that it was there for all to see. “If you‟ve got it, flaunt it” was the name
of the game. How different to the Bibles injunction to be modest, plain,
simple, shame faced, sober and humble! Then you analyse the morals
that these videos are portraying, the symbols of Satanism that are
shown and you wonder how we dare think that such entertainment is
good for a Christ-loving person. By beholding, we become changed.
Oh, but it‟s not only adult television. What about children‟s cartoons
and programming? How about all the research which has unanimously honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, what-
found that by watching aggressive acts in the media, children become
more aggressive? By beholding, we become changed. How about the
increasingly sexualised nature of these cartoon heroines? How was the 
2
Little Mermaid (not) clothed? What about the general standard of
beauty that these children are being bombarded with in the fairytales
that are portrayed on TV (and in books)? What about the witchcraft that
our children come to believe is „good‟ and acceptable? What does the
Bible say about sorcery?
Then there are the so-called educational programmes that also incorpo-
rate fictitious talking animals and worldly music. Just because the
words are ok, does it mean the music is? And I‟ll never forget the last
could watch together. I turned on Sesame Street and the song was ok,
until near the end-it was talking about families-and the one sections
(paraphrased and with a picture too) said “We have mommy and daddy,
sionable children. By beholding, we become changed.
Then there‟s the whole subliminal insertions. Not only in the television
programs themselves, but also during the adverts that are shown in be-
tween the shows. And this is where it is even riskier to watch televi-
sion. Our brain decodes and encodes virtually automatically. Some
words that are written backwards, songs that have a mes-
sage when sung in reverse, so to speak. How much more
when there are pictures that we don‟t notice, but our
brains notice? Some people are very good at spotting
subliminal messaging, but what about the messages even
they don‟t see? Subliminal messaging is real, and worse
yet, it works. There are many Psychology research stud-
ies that aren‟t TESTING subliminal messaging, but actu-
ally use it to test other things, that‟s how well it works.
The biggest „product‟ that subliminal advertising in chil-
dren‟s cartoons, and elsewhere, is selling, is sex. Then
followed by food, and needless to say, they aren‟t exactly
selling/promoting healthy food either. By beholding, we
May our minds be stayed on Christ and His righteousness. Only by
feeding on HIS word, only by having Him as our constant companion,
only by doing His will, can we overcome. Our eyes can deceive us,
convincing us that what we are watching isn‟t harmful, we need to pray
for eye salve, not only to see our own wretched state, but so that we can
recognise that the only safety lies in fixing our eyes on Christ, not on
the TV screen-unless of course, we‟re watching religious sermons and
music. TV is addictive, but God can break us of that habit. And not
only of the habit, but even of the desire to partake. Time is short, we
cannot mess around with our salvation. We need to fortify ourselves
now for the time to come. TV has obvious, and hidden dangers. May
we fix our minds on Jesus, who is our only safety.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are
soever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there
be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Phil 4:8
 PRESERVING THE FAMILY….. BR T WATERS
Have you noticed the intensity of the world we live in? Have you For a long, tense moment they just stared at each other. Then my
felt the effect in your family? We live in a generation where all of big brother stood up and said, ―Yeah, and me too!‖ Then his friend
our time-saving conveniences and technology have only increased stood up. I sat gripping the arms of the chair, paralyzed. After a
our pace and pressured us to pack more into a day. We live in a so- long silence the group started to leave one by one without saying
ciety that has incurred an all-time record high national debt. Fami- another word.
lies are encouraged to over-extend financially, creating greater
I share this incredible experience with you because my Dad was my
stress and pressure. And all this undermines family security, time
hero. He taught me what it means to preserve the family, not just
to relax together, even time to sit around the same table and eat a
physically, but in every way. You see, dads should be the heroes,
meal together.
and our homes should be a refuge in a harsh world. (If you are a
Think for a moment, what are you doing to preserve the most valu- single mom you can be a hero, too.) The essence of the words my
able asset you have – your family? Are we allowing all the forces of dad spoke that day is, everything must go through Dad first before
influence ―out there‖ to destroy the happiness and security of the it affects the family. Think about it! What are the influences that
family ―in here?‖ are affecting the happiness, peace and security of your family?
I remember when I was eight years old my parents told my brother, Television: What about the TV shows? Are they building strong
who was sixteen, and me that they were going to take us on a very moral traits in your family or tearing them down? Are they deter-
special riverboat ride. They said we could each take along one of mining the values, attitudes and vocabulary in your family?
our friends. When the day arrived we excitedly clambered aboard
Peer Associations: Are they influencing the respect between you
the huge double-decker paddle-boat. Like boys will do we headed
and your kids? Are they strengthening family commitments or un-
for the top deck while Dad and Mom chose seats on the lower deck.
dermining the unity of your family?
We hadn‘t even started having fun Are they leading your kids into life-
when two very rough-looking teenag- destroying habits?
ers aggressively approached my friend
Internet/Web surfing: Is this creating
and me, looking at me and saying in a
unity between you and your family or
very angry tone, ―Why did you drop
making everyone an island unto them-
that cup down on me?‖ I didn‘t know
selves? Is it controlling your time as a
what he was talking about – I didn‘t
family?
even have a cup, let alone drop it on
him. Then he said, ―We‘re going to get These are just a few thought questions
our friends and throw you overboard.‖ that we need to be answering honestly,
I was terrified! My heart racing, I ran or by default we will find the heart-
to the other end of the upper deck breaking consequences of these
where my older brother was with his ―ruffians‖ destroying our families and
friend and told him what happened. throwing the peace, happiness and se-
That‘s when I found out my brother curity of our homes overboard.
had dropped the cup. He said, ―We‘d better get down with Dad.‖ Let‘s be heroes in our families and make home a refuge. Let‘s not
We raced down the stairs and found Dad and Mom and told them just go with the flow of a collapsing society. Instead, let‘s begin at
what happened. Dad said very calmly, ―It‘ll be okay, just stay here.‖ once to make a difference one day at a time. Here are a few simple
So we all sat together in a semicircle next to the railing facing the ways to get started.
river, me right next to Dad. He was right, nothing happened. After Take family fun time two to three times a week. Eat at least one
twenty to thirty minutes I was relaxing and starting to enjoy the meal together every day, having family talk time about your real
ride when all of a sudden I had a strange feeling that someone was lives. Take interest in their interests. Do work projects together.
looking at the back of my head. I was sure that if I turned around I
would see somebody looking at me. Hesitatingly I turned around You may need to redirect your plans to preserve your family, but
and-sure enough-there was not just someone, but ten sets of eyes the investment will yield the greatest dividends. The Bible says in 1
looking at me! Timothy 6:20 that we are to ―keep that which is committed to thy
trust.‖ It is our privilege and responsibility as dads and moms to
Just then the biggest one – bigger than my dad – said to me, ―We‘re preserve our families. It won‘t happen by accident!
going to throw you overboard.‖ My heart starting racing again as
terror struck. I knew he meant it. Right then my dad stood up, A one-question Gallop Survey was given to a group of young people
turned and faced all ten of those ruffians and said calmly but firmly, asking: ―What is the most important gift you could receive?‖ The
―You‘ll have to go through me first.‖ I will never forget those words overwhelming and shocking response was ―more time with Mom
and his look. It was an electric moment – my dad‘s eyes locked and dad.‖ Let‘s take it to heart and begin at once to preserve our
with the eyes of the challenger. families. 

3
 PERFECTION IN THE LAST GENERATION PART 3…..BY BR E PREWITT
In the second letter the Testimony came to them, as testimonies
do, very practically. They were to separate from their worldly-
minded associates and ―be separate.‖ On condition of obedience to
this command, the Lord had promised ―I will receive you, and will
be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith
the Lord Almighty.‖ Of this glorious offer, Paul wrote:
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and
spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corin-
thians 7:1
To those struggling to break the chains that bind them to those that
love not our Lord Jesus, the Father has pledged to be their security,
their place of refuge. The promise inspires the efforts of personal
reformation. But the call to holy living often creates feelings of in-
adequacy. Paul adds, as if to answer the unspoken objection, ―I
speak not this to condemn you: For I have said before, that ye are
in our hearts to die and live with you.‖ v. 3.
Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their
foreheads--it is not any seal or mark that can be seen,
but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and
spiritually, so they cannot be moved--just as soon as
God's people are sealed and prepared for the shaking,
it will come. Indeed, it has begun already; the judg-
ments of God are now upon the land, to give us warn-
ing, that we may know what is coming. Maranatha p.
200
Our part in finishing the work of character development is laid
down by inspiration, and is limited by several of the same passages.
We are given duties meet for our weakened condition while God
takes upon himself the work of bringing the grain to harvest-
readiness. Paul speaks about two of our duties in the epistle to the
Philippians, and makes them the condition of being found
―blameless and harmless…without rebuke‖ in the midst of a crook-
ed and perverse people such as will be found in the last days.

Take a moment to consider the balance in the testimony. It offers Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
full and free forgiveness and care in the words ―I will receive you That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of
and be a Father,‖ but does not lower the standard of conduct. The God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and
reception is conditioned on faith in the text, both in the promise perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the
and the command. The Lord may say ―be clean…and I will receive world; Philippians 2:14-15
you‖ without teaching righteousness by works. A man is received Murmuring and disputing are the antithesis of Biblical love, a love
when he exercises faith by separating from his associations. He that is not a statement of affection but rather revealed ―in deed and
separates because of faith in the dearest promises that he will be in truth.‖ Love is putting the well-being and happiness and needs
received. of others before our own. Murmuring places a low estimate on the
value of making others happy. It seeks to receive sympathy rather
The call to reach the highest standard neither treats him as a crimi- than to impart strength. Disputing has never tended to increase
nal, nor does it keep him at arm‘s length until he submits. He is our love for the one we are challenging. Yet a growing love is just
―dearly beloved‖ when called. He is in the apostle‘s heart, uncon- what is demanded of us at this time if we are to attain the ripened
demned by the man that forbids his fraternity with the world. state.
That illustrates well the work of God‘s testimonies. They call men
to ―perfect holiness‖ with all the warmth and true love that the Ho- And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love
ly Spirit can place in men. But spiritual things are still spiritually one toward another, and to-
discerned and many will stoop to accuse the Spirit of severity in ward all men, even as we do
forbidding friendship with the world. After listing the various gifts toward you: To the end he
of the Spirit in the fourth chapter of Ephesians, Paul explains their may stablish your hearts un-
purpose in the church. blameable in holiness before
God, even our Father, at the
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the coming of our Lord Jesus
ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we Christ with all his saints. 1
all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge Thessalonians 3:12-13
of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the meas- You would not ask a child to re-
ure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: Ephesians place the transmission in your
4:12,13 car. You might ask him to wash it
In other words, the ―rain‖ of the Spirit that expresses itself in the carefully. If you placed the first
gift of prophecy (see Joel 2) will fall until the harvest field of the burden on him, he would be rightly overwhelmed unless he had no
church is ready for harvest. That is the purpose of the gifts, and the just idea of what was involved.
specific reason they are revived in the time of the judgement.
The epistle to the Ephesians connects this ripening with the seal- There is a parallel in the work of character development. With help
ing, the settling into the truth so that one can not be moved. and encouragement from our Father we may tackle the duty of nev-
er complaining and never arguing. We may fall, repent, and make
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and
fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine by another effort. There are other practical things we can do. Our Sav-
the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby ior takes our efforts, much as we would accept the efforts of a
they lie in wait to deceive; but [on the contrary] speak- young child to help us clean the kitchen, and adds to them His
power. While we chose not to complain, ―the Lord make[s us] to
ing the truth in love, [we] may grow into him in all
increase and abound in love one to another.‖ 
things.” v. 14-15.
These passages parallel well the following testimony:
4
This growing love is the condition of being found ―unblameable in
holiness before God…at the coming of our Lord Jesus.‖ In this
passage there are three aspects of this love that are to be growing
particularly. They give us direction in our work of character devel-
opment. We are love ―one another‖ more today than we did two
weeks ago, for a growing love is not static. We are to love those
that are without, ―all men‖ with a continually increasing affection.
And the love of our spiritual leaders is to be a model of this grow-
ing selflessness. This unblameable state of ―holiness‖ will appar-
ently be tested here on earth, for we are to be ―stablished‖ that
way.
Here, like elsewhere, settling into the truth is connected with the
work that is to immediately precede the second coming.
Two chapters later Paul expands on this counsel.
And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which
labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and
admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love
for their work’s sake. And be at peace among your-
selves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that
are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the
weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render
evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which
is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Re-
joice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing
give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus
concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not
prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is
good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the
very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God
your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved
blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.1
Thessalonians 5:12-24.
The list of projects entrusted to us is longer here. We are to labor
to love the classes that are especially prone to be weaned from our
affection. They include those, our authorities, that ―admonish‖ us.
They take in the ―unruly‖ and the easily discouraged. Those that
injure us are to receive good at our hand as all others do. We are
given to rejoice, pray, thank continuously. The passage expands
our source of directives to include modern day prophets, though
they must be thoroughly tested. Those that prove true are to be
held too stiffly, as if there would be a movement to undermine
their authority. Finally we are to be careful of appearances. Like
Daniel, we are to repel the temptation to withdraw from public
faithfulness.
But then the passage changes abruptly. After saying ―do this and
this and this and this and this and this and this,‖ the passage con-
tinues, ―and God will bring the big job to its final completion.‖
While we have our little tasks to do, it is God that will sanctify us
―wholly.‖ We will be brought to a state of being ―blameless‖ some-
time just before Christ‘s coming. The prayer of Paul is that God
may preserve that state until the end, something only possible if it
is achieved before that time.
Have you ever wondered ―What if I am not ready in time?‖ or
―What if I can‘t hold out?‖ This passage is for you. Your work is
not to be ready ―in time,‖ or to ―hold out.‖ Your work is to do your
duties. God will ripen the harvest. The angel will not say ―thrust in
your sickle‖ until that work is done. God‘s work will be to preserve
the ripened grain through the troublous time. He is the one that
will not let the smallest grain slip through the sieve in the sifting
process.
Does this lessen the dan-
ger of putting off prepara-
tion? No. Preparation is
our duty. Despising not
prophesying is our task.
Loving the unlovables be-
longs to us. These are eve-
rywhere the conditions of
our being ripened by God.
But our ripening is dis-
tinctly His duty. ―Faithful
is He that calleth you, who
also will do it.‖
The first chapter of the letter to the Colossians also bears out this
truth.
And, having made peace through the blood of
[Christ’s] cross, by [Christ] to reconcile all things un-
to himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in
earth, or things in heaven.
The idea that things in heaven need reconciled may intrigue those
not familiar with the cleansing of the sanctuary. The blotting out
of sins in heaven and the eradication of them on earth are the
work going on now. The end of that work is the subject of the rest
of the chapter.
And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies
in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he recon-
ciled. . . . to present you holy and unblameable and
unreproveable in his sight:
The work is done by virtue of Christ‘s death, and is connected with
the sealing process. Under what condition can we expect to be
presented ―holy and unblameable and unreproveable‖ when He
appears?
If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and
be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which
ye have heard . . . . Whereof I am made a minister, . . .
to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath
been hid from ages and from generations, but now is
made manifest to his saints: To whom God would
make known what is the riches of the glory of this
mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you,
the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every
man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we
may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Col.
1:20-28.
The condition is that of holding on, as it is in Matthew 24:13, Ro-
mans 11:21-23, Hebrews 3:6, I Timothy 5:12, 2 Peter 2:19-22, and
I Corinthians 15:1-2. More than that, it is holding on when the
winds are blowing strongest; it is being grounded and settled (see
2 Thessalonians 2:17; 3:3) so that we will ―be not moved.‖ The
condition is the same as the condition of being sealed. What is this
mystery that Paul speaks about and that is finished during the
days of the 7th angel‘s sounding? It is ―Christ in you, the hope of
glory.‖ The message preached is both a ―warning‖ and a ―teaching‖
to ―every man‖ that God intends for him to be presented ―perfect
in Christ Jesus.‖ When? Why, when the mystery is finished, just
prior to the end of the world. It is prior to the end, for it is finished
―in the days . . . . when he shall begin to sound.‖ If the mystery is
to be finished then, prior to the greatest time of trouble, then
those that are ―finished‖ will stand through that time. We are little
surprised that the completion of the work is everywhere connect-
ed with being grounded and settled. TBC
5
 HEALTH IN JESUS PART 4 .... BY BR J HACHOMBWA
NUTRITION
IN THE BEGINNING.
Gen1:29; 3:18. "In order
to know what are the
best foods, we must
study God's original
plan for man's diet. He
who created man and
who understands his
needs appointed Adam
his food ... Grains,
fruits, nuts, and vegeta-
bles constitute the diet
chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple
and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nour-
ishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor
of intellect, that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulat-
ing diet." MH 295-296.
COMPLETE DIET- "The grains, with fruits, nuts, and vegetables
contain all the nutritive properties necessary to make good blood."
MH 316. "A dietary that is complete without the use of flesh-
meats." MH 299; (CD 322, 395; Ed 204-205) "In order to have
good health, we must have good blood." MH 271,
ESSENTIAL TO HEALTH - "Our bodies are built up from the food
we eat." "In order to maintain health, a sufficient supply of good
nourishing food is needed." MH 295, 299.
JESUS AND APPETITE - "With Christ, as with the holy pair in
Eden, appetite was the ground of the first great temptation. Just
where the ruin began, the work of our redemption must begin. As
by the indulgence of appetite Adam fell, so by the denial of appetite
Christ must overcome. Matt 4:2- 4." "Of all the lessons to be
learned from our Lord's first great temptation, none is more im-
portant than that bearing upon the control of the appetites and
passions." DA 117,122 (CD 185,151). JESUS multiplied good food
and destroyed unclean. Matt 14:19-21, Mark 5:12-13.
DIETETIC REFORM: "There is great need of instruction in regard
to dietetic reform." MH 146 God's word calls for a diet reform, lsa
55:2, MH317, 1Cor 10:31.
EXERCISE
IN THE BEGINNING, Gen 2:15. ―To Adam and Eve was committed
the care of the garden, 'to dress it and to keep it.' Though rich in all
that the owner of the universe could supply, they were not to be
idle. Useful occupation was appointed them as a blessing, to
strengthen the body, to expand the mind, and to develop the char-
acter." Ed 21
AFTER THE FALL - exercise was still "a safeguard against tempta-
tion and a source of happiness. Those who regard work as a curse,
attended though it be with weariness and pain, are cherishing an
error…Our Creator, who understands what is for man's happiness,
appointed Adam his work. The true joy of life is found only by the
working men and women." PP 50. (see Gen 3:19, 23.)
ESSENTIAL TO HEALTH - "Ministers, teachers, and students…
neglect this duty (exercise) which is most essential for the preser-
vation of health." CH 572 (MH 238) "Activity is the law of life; idle-
ness is death." COL 364 "Action is the law of our being." MH 237.
JESUS AND EXERCISE – ―Throughout His life on earth, Jesus was
an earnest and constant worker. He expected much; therefore He
attempted much. After He had entered on His ministry, He said, 'I
must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: The night
cometh, when no man can work.' John 9:4" DA 73 (MH 51).
"Christ…for nearly thirty years He lived among the wicked inhabit-
ants of Nazareth…He learned a trade, and with His own hands
worked in the carpenters shop with Joseph… He did not employ
His divine power to lessen His burdens or to lighten His toil... By
His own example He taught that it is our duty to be industrious,
that our work should be performed with exactness and thorough-
ness, and that such labor is honored." DA 72, (John 13:15, 1Peter
2:21). Jesus was about His Father's business, Luke 2: 49; He was a
carpenter, Mark 6:3; He did might works, Matt 13: 54.
SCRIPTURES AND WORK: Work with might Ecc 9:10; Do not be
weary in well doing Gal 6:9; No working no eating 2Thess 3:10-13,
MH 177. Renew strength in the Lord Isaiah 40:31.
ACTIVITY A SAFE GUARD - ―In His industrious life there were no
idle moments to invite temptations. No aimless hours opened the
way for corrupting associations. So far as possible, He closed the
door to the tempter... Temptation, poverty, adversity, is the very
discipline needed to develop purity and firmness." DA 72 (see also
CH192, MH 177).
INACTIVIY A CURSE - "Inactivity is the greatest curse that could
come upon most invalids." MH 240. "Inactivity is a fruitful cause of
disease." MH 238. "Overwork is bad, but the result of indolence is
more to be dreaded." "More people die for want of exercise than
through over fatigue; very many more rust out than wear out." CH
618,173.
KINDS OF EXERCISE - "WALKING…brings more of the muscles
into exercise." MH 240. There is no exercise that can take the place
of walking." CH 200. JESUS' "journeys from place to place were
made on foot." MH 52 (John 2:11-14; 3:22; 4:3-7; Luke 13:33).
"CULTIVATION OF SOIL‖ is a life giving exercise. MH 265 (see
also ML 136).
"USEFUL OCCUPATION was appointed them (Adam/Eve) as a
blessing." Ed 21(CH 199,627).
"GOOD DEEDS - Are twice a blessing, benefiting both the giver
and the receiver of the kindness." ―The fifty-eight chapter of Isaiah
is a prescription for maladies of the body and of the soul (Isa 58:7 -
11). MH 257, 256. "The greatest benefit is not gained from exercise
that is taken as play or exercise merely. There is some benefit de-
rived from being in the fresh air and also from the exercise of the
muscle; but let the same amount of energy be given to the perfor-
mance of helpful duties, and the benefit will be greater, and a feel-
ing of satisfaction will be realized; for such exercise carries with it
the sense of helpfulness and the approval of conscience for the duty
well done…No recreation helpful only to themselves will prove so
great a blessing to the children and youth as that which makes
them helpful to others." AH 506 (Ed 212).
SPORTS AS EXERCISE - Football, boxing and other competitive
sports and games are not recom-
mendable because of their influence
to evil, brutality, and the excess to
which they are carried. CH 189-190
(AH 498-520).
HEALTHFUL EXERCISE SHOULD
BE – Systematic (regular), agreeable,
heart should be in it (enjoyed), and
brisk, MH 238 - 240. "Brisk yet not
violent." CH 53. 
6
 WATER
IN THE BENNING, Gen 2:10. "Water... is the beverage which God
provided to quench the thirst of animals and man." MH 237.
ESSENTIAL TO HEALTH: "In health and in sickness, pure water
is one of heaven's choicest blessings. Its proper use promotes
health." MH 237. Water makes about 70% of our total body
weight. Man can live up to 6 weeks without food but only a few
days without water.
JESUS AND WATER: "Christ came to be one with humanity ... He
became flesh, even as we are (Heb 2:14-18). He was hungry and
thirst and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by
sleep." MH 422 (DA 311). He asked the Samaritan woman for wa-
ter John 4:6-7; on the cross He cried "I thirst." John 19:28. He
used water for foot washing, John 13: 5, and healing the man who
was born blind, John 9:6-7. He likens His spiritual blessings to
water and invites the spiritually thirst to drink, John 4:14; 7:37-8.
INTERNAL USE: "Drank freely, it helps to supply the necessities
of the system, and. assists nature to resist disease.‖ MH 237.
"Water is the best liquid possible to cleanse the tissues." ML 139.
EXTERNAL USE: "Scrupulous cleanliness 'is essential to both
physical and mental health…Most persons
would receive benefit from a cool or tepid
bath every day, morning or evening…It is im-
portant also that the clothing be kept clean...If
they are not frequently changed and washed,
the impurities will be reabsorbed." MH 276
(237).
WATER TREATMENTS: "The external appli-
cation of water is one of the easiest and most
satisfactory ways of regulating the circulation
of the blood…There are many ways in which
water can be applied to relieve pain and check
disease. All should become intelligent in its
use in simple home treatments." MH 237.
"Hot and cold water, hot compresses" applied
"perseveringly, with unwearied, unrelaxed
diligence" will save lives. MM 228. Under-
standing "principles involved…and ... practi-
cal training" is needed. MH127.
SUNSHINE
INTHE BEGINNING, Gen 1:3,16. LIGHT, the foundation of life,
was the first and the only thing God created on the first day, and
on the fourth day He focused the light by creating two great lights,
the sun and the moon. God, the master builder, was creating a
planet to be filled with living creatures and light had to be made
first. "God 'is the fountain of life.' Ps aim 36: 9…It is His life that
we receive in the sunshine, in the pure, sweet air, in the food
which builds up our bodies and sustains our strength. It is by His
life that we exist, hour by hour, moment by moment." Ed. 197-
198. "In the manifestation of God to His people, light had been a
symbol of His presence." DA 465.
ESSENTIAL HEALTH: "There are but few who realize that in or-
der to enjoy health and cheerfulness, they must have an abun-
dance of sunlight, pure air, and physical exercise." ML 138
JESUS AND LIGHT: "'In Him was life; and the life was the light of
men.' John 1: 4. Life is associated with light, and if we have no
light from the sun of Righteousness, we can have no life in Him ...
In the world about us there can be no life without light. Were the
sun to withdraw his shining, all vegetation, all animal life, would
have an end. This illustrates the fact that we cannot have spiritual
life unless we place ourselves under the beams of the sun of Right-
eousness. Mal 4:2." SD 281. "In the words, 'I am the light of the
world,' Jesus declared Himself the Messiah…the promised one.
John 8:12." DA 465. ―Christ loved to gather the people about Him
under the blue heavens on some grassy hillside, or on the beach
beside the lake." MH 54 (Matt 5:1-2, Luke 5:3, 15-16; John 6:2-5).
VENTILATION AND SUNLIGHT: "In the construction of build-
ings…care should be taken to provide for good ventilation and
plenty of sunlight.‖ MH 274.
SUNBATHING: Enjoy "the health and life-giving rays of the sun.
Go out into the light and warmth of the glorious sun…and share
with the vegetation its life-giving, healing power." ML 138. "To the
sick it is worth more than silver or gold to lie in the sunshine or in
the shade of the trees." CH 166. "Truly the light is sweet, a pleas-
ant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun." Ecc11:7
TEMPERANCE
IN THE BEGINNING, Gen 2:17. "At the very beginning of
man's existence a check was placed upon the desire for self -
indulgence, the fatal passion that lay at the foundation of
Satan's fall. The tree of knowledge."
PP 48. "With our first parents, in-
temperate desire resulted in the loss
of Eden. Temperance in all things
has more to do with our restoration
to Eden than men realize." MH 129.
ESSENTIAL TO HEALTH: "In order
to preserve health, temperance in all
things is necessary. Temperance in
labor, temperance in eating and
drinking." 2SM 416.
DEFINATION OF TEMPERANCE:
―True temperance teaches us to dis-
pense entirely with everything hurt-
ful and to use judiciously that which
is healthful." PP 562 (Te.138) (see
also 1 Peter 2:11, CH 67-68)
JESUS AND TEMPERANCE: Matt 4:2, "The great end for
which Christ endured that long fast in the wilderness was to
teach us the necessity of self-denial and temperance." CH
125. ―While Christ accepted invitations to feasts and gather-
ings, He did not partake of all the food offered Him, but qui-
etly ate of that which was appropriate for His physical ne-
cessities, avoiding the many things that He did not need.
His disciples were frequently invited with Him, and His
conduct was a lesson to them, teaching them not to indulge
appetite by overeating or by eating improper food. He
showed them that portions of the food provided could be
passed by, and portions chosen.‖ 7MR 412. Jesus refused
sour wine (vinegar) on the cross for it would deaden His
senses and ―becloud His mind.‖ DA 746, Matt 27:34, Mark
15:23. Jesus warned against the indulgence of appetite,
Luke 21:34; 12:45-46. "It is impossible for an intemperate
man to be a Christian, for his higher powers are brought in-
to slavery to the passions." CH 36. "JESUS...did not use His
physical powers recklessly, but in such a way as to keep
them in health, that He might do the best work in every
line." DA 72 (see also AH 507). TBC
6
 A CHANNEL WHERE WE CAN REACH GOD PART 2... BY SR K NARANJO
If you were to go to a court of law and say to the judge, here is my never be disappointed.
evidence of what happened that you cannot see… here is the sub-
stance of my defense and case that is invisible. He/She would In the end, God honored his prophet Elijah and he was given a re-
laugh at you and throw out your case. And, yet, the bible uses the- placement to continue the work and taken to heaven alive.
se words as if we CAN experience this kind of faith.
Moving on—
My heart desire is to see it, and touch it, and feel my connection # 1: There are certain things that God has still ordained for us to
with God… Show it to me, give it to me, I want to see Jesus‘ face. do today. Some things are visible and tangible and some are invisi-
But we must experience faith as though you could… see Him, talk ble.
with Him, feel His touch , hold on to Him.
Rom 6:3,4 Know ye not, that so many of us as were bap-
Romans 14:23 gives us a warning…in the last part of the tized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
verse [23] … for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. If you Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:
make reality of your faith in terms of what our senses can perceive, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glo-
it is not faith but sin. It can become idolatry or slavery of doubt, ry of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness
and the bondage of unbelief. of life.
Q: What is this practice that God still requires of us? You must be
Does your faith have substance when tried in the fires of affliction? born again. Baptism by water and by Spirit. One is a physical visi-
ble experience and the other is invisible, the Spirit baptism. It is
Think about what God has given us to defend ourselves from Sa- not the water that has the significance, but Jesus says it should be
tan… God gives us armour in Eph 6: Now the way God talks done. It is the point where our faith can reach up to God. It is
about this armour you would think that it is something we can more than just a ritual… more than a ceremony.
touch and put on … but it is symbolic. How good does it work Let‘s look at another example…..
when we walk in strong faith and obedience to God‘s word? Notice
what v [16] says: Above all, taking the shield of faith, #2 1Co 10:16,17 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it
wherewith ye shall be able to quench..(how many?) all the not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread
fiery darts of the wicked. which we break, is it not the communion of the body of
Christ? For we being many
1 John 5: [4] For whatsoever is born of God overcometh are one bread, and one body:
the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the for we are all partakers of
world, even our faith. Faith is the thing that overcomes that one bread.
the world… faith is the victory…. Q: What is this practice? This is
communion: This has a 2 fold
This is what could have happened…. meaning in 17. It says that we are
EGW PK p. 160 Elijah should not have fled from his post of duty. the body! Like believers are the
He should have met the threat of Jezebel with an appeal for protec- body of Christ and God will honor
tion to the One who had commissioned him to vindicate the honor that association. 2nd in v. 16 the
of Jehovah. He should have told the messenger that the God in bible speaks of the blood and body
whom he trusted would protect him against the hatred of the of Christ. Does this not say it is
queen. Only a few hours had passed since he had witnessed a won- blood? The Bread of the body?
derful manifestation of divine power, and this should have given Oh, I thought it was just a sym-
him assurance that he would not now be forsaken. Had he re- bol. I wanted to run away from
mained where he was, had he made God his refuge and strength, anything that sounded like what
standing steadfast for the truth, he would have been shielded from other churches do. I have run past
harm. The Lord would have given him another signal victory by the truth. Why do we continue to
sending His judgments on Jezebel; and the impression made on have communion? It is more than a ceremony – at this point our
the king and the people would have wrought a great reformation. faith meets God.
{PK 160.1}
Let‘s continue in ch. 11:
Elijah had expected much from the miracle wrought on Carmel. 1Co 11:27-29 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread,
But a reaction such as frequently follows high faith and glorious and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty
success was pressing upon Elijah. He feared that the reformation of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine
begun on Carmel might not be lasting; and depression seized him. himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that
While under the inspiration of the Almighty, he had stood the sev- cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth
erest trial of faith; but in this time of discouragement, with Jeze- and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the
bel's threat sounding in his ears, and Satan still apparently prevail- Lord's body.
ing through the plotting of this wicked woman, he lost his hold on
God. Is it a mere symbol? Heaven reaches down to meet our faith into
the body of Christ. God says, I‘m there in a special way. Jesus
My mother used to always tell me….. he who expects nothing, will says, ―follow me‖ 
8
EGW . . As we receive the bread and wine symbolizing Christ's bro- faith.
ken body and spilled blood, we in imagination join in the scene of The point of contact is help for us to experience in a special way
Communion in the upper chamber. We seem to be passing through where faith meets our God.
the garden consecrated by the agony of Him who bore the sins of
the world. We witness the struggle by which our reconciliation with The counterfeit:
God was obtained. Christ is set forth crucified among us. {FLB Do Devils and demons associate themselves with places and ob-
300.5} jects? Do you believe in haunted houses? Do you believe that
people can be possessed by demons? Do you believe in Ouija
#3 To review, we have baptism, communion, and another…the boards? Crystal balls? Taro cards?
laying on of hands, these are foundational things that God provides
for us. It helps our humanity and it helps to grow our faith. Story of missionary evangelist in a foreign country… Edwyn Mar-
tin. He was giving evangelistic meetings to the people and a witch
Peter in Acts…he laid on hands, it was a point of contact… hands in doctor was there at the meetings. He said that he needed a hair
and of themselves are not holy but the act is used by God as a way from Edwyn‘s head. He gave him a hair from his head.
to reach down to us in a special way. During the meeting, Edwyn began to feel strange but he continued
anyway. After the meeting the witch doctor came to him and asked
Act 8:17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they re- him how he felt? He said that he felt fine.
ceived the Holy Ghost.
1Tim.4:17 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was The next evening there was another meeting. The witch doctor
given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of was there again and during the meeting Edwyn started getting a
the presbytery.[pastor or elders of the church] fever and began sweating very much but continued anyway. After
Heb.6 :2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of the meeting, the witch doctor asked him how he felt and he said
hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal fine.
judgment.
Then, the witch doctor told him that your God was stronger than
Example # 4 Q: What do we do for the sick? James 5:14 Is any his god and he gave him a magic bug. Edwyn took the bug and
sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; went home very tired and straight to bed.
and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the That night, in his sleep he awoke in a great sweat and he felt like
name of the Lord: he was being strangled to death. He cried out as best he could to
the Lord and the strangle hold was released. He took the magic
Jesus healed & touched many that he healed… the touch was not bug and burned it. And, he exclaimed ―I should have burned the
needed really but it helped their faith. The centurion said that the bug as soon as it was given me!‖ TBC
‗word‘ only was enough for Jesus to heal and the man had great

THE SUBTLETY OF FEAR…..BY SR T KRUM

As women, we have unique In 1 Peter 3:1-6, we find God‘s description of holy women. Take
fears. Experiences in our life some unhurried time to read this passage, and reflect on it in light
may have taught us that we of your own life. Take special notice of the context in verse five
could not trust anyone. In where godly women who trusted in God were not afraid to be in
order to protect ourselves, or subjection to their husband. Certainly, if we don‘t trust God it will
to feel ―safe,‖ we may devel- be very difficult, if not impossible, to trust our husband enough to
op life-long habits of micro- yield to his leadership.
managing anything that en-
Ask yourself, ―Do I trust God with my life?‖ The way you can know
ters our sphere of influence—
if you do or not is to bring each of your fears before the Lord and
sometimes even without re-
examine them—even the worst case scenarios that plague you. Ask
alizing what we are doing.
yourself, ―Can I trust Him with this?‖ If not, commit to taking the
The danger with this habit is two-fold. First, our unconverted time to get acquainted with Him so that you can trust Him. Claim
hearts resonate with this desire for control. What may have started the promise in Psalm 34:4, ―I sought the Lord, and He heard me,
out quite innocently—a legitimate need to protect ourselves emo- and delivered me from all my fears.‖ He will give you victory!
tionally or physically—now takes over. Secondly, if we feel deep
Don‘t be afraid to yield to your husband, for he is also under God‘s
down inside that even God cannot be trusted, we may find ourselves
leadership, even if he doesn‘t recognize His authority. ―The king‘s
running our own lives without seeking God‘s will.
heart is in the hand of the Lord; as the rivers of water, He turneth it
To ―micro-manage‖ life is to try to make everything go my way, whithersoever He will.‖ Proverbs 21:1.
without first considering others‘ thoughts or feelings. If we are
And finally, ―Who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that
married, we may find ourselves wanting our husband to continually
which is good?‖ 1 Peter 3:13. Put God to the test by following His
yield to our wishes, rather than considering how we can yield to
directions, and discover the peace and rest He will give when you
him.
actually trust Him with your whole heart! 

9

PRISONERS OF
HOPE
This newsletter is authored
by members of the SDA
church whose desire is to
provide a thought provoking
newsletter for Adventists
dwelling on the banks of
Jordan; in the process ap-
pealing to entire fidelity to
the Bible and the Spirit of
Prophecy.
 +27(0)21 556 4628 086 608 7075 +27(0)83 268 7575 www.scribd.com/PrisonersOfHope
prisonersofhope@gmail.com  2 Silversands, Quuens Close, 7441, Cape Town, South Africa
THE MOTHER
1. Why did Adam call his wife's name Eve?
Gen. 3:20 - And Adam called his wife's name Eve: because she was the mother of all liv-
ing.
NOTE.-It is said that the three sweetest words in any language are mother, home, and
heaven.
2. What did God say to Abraham concerning his wife, Sarah?
Gen. 17:16 - And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will' bless her,
and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of her.
3. What commandment guards the honor of the mother?
Ex. 20:12 - Honor thy father and thy mother.
4. How early did Hannah dedicate her son Samuel to God?
1 Sam. 1:11 - And she vowed a vow, and said, O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt indeed . . . give
unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his
life.
5. To whom did God commit the care and early training of His only begotten
Son?
Matt. 2:11 - And when they were come into the house, they saw the . young child with
Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshiped Him.
6. Under the influence of her tender care and faithful instruction, what is
said of the child life of Jesus?
Luke 2:40-52 - And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and
the grace of God was upon Him. . . . And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in
favor with God and man.
NOTES.-"The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world." A mother is a
mother still, The holiest thing on earth. " A Christian mother above all others, can deeply
implant and faithfully cherish the seeds of truth in the young and tender heart. More
even than the father, the mother molds the life, character, and destiny of man. Every
stage and phase of life is touched and influenced by her. Infancy, childhood, youth, man-
hood, and old age alike center in her. She is both the morning and the evening star of life,
- the angel spirit of the home.
7. What tender, filial regard did Christ manifest for His mother in the hour
of His death?
John 19:26,27 - When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple standing by,
whom He loved [John], He saith unto His mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith
He to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his
own home.
8. How early did Timothy know the Scriptures?
2 Tim. 3:15 - And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures.
9. What is said of his mother and his grandmother?
2 Tim. 1:5 - When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwell
first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice.
NOTE.-No position in life is superior to that of the mother, no influence more potent for
good or evil. "All that I am or hope to be, I owe to my mother," said Abraham Lincoln.
"All that I have ever accomplished in life, owe to my mother," declared D. L. Moody. "A
kiss from my mother," said Benjamin West, "made me a painter."
10