At a busy gas station and convenience store one beautiful day in Arkansas, I observed a man walking across the parking lot eating a sandwich. He reached his pick up truck, which was about ten feet from where I was standing, when I heard him sneeze. I called out in his direction, “God bless you”.

“What did you say?” he replied. As I walked closer I repeated myself, “God bless you, I said!” He was now sitting in the driver’s seat and I was approaching his truck, smiling and praying for an opportunity to speak with him about Jesus. He smiled back and said thank you to which I replied, “You do believe in God, don’t you?”

“I hope there’s a God,” replied John, age 67, “although I wouldn’t really know, I haven’t been to church since I was a little boy.” I asked if he knew the Bible verse from the Gospel of John which bares his name, John 3:16, and I began quoting it. “For God so loved you, John, that He gave His one and only son …. He smiled saying he had a faint recollection of hearing those words. He then asked me if I believed in heaven. As I gave him my affirmative answer and tried to share about Jesus, he interrupted me and shared that he was hoping he had been “good enough” to go to heaven when his life is over. Will I see you there, he asked?

I smiled and said I would be there but not because of my good works. It was very busy and noisy at the gas station so I showed him a Good News witnessing card and began reading the words on the card to him so John could see them as well as hear the Gospel message. He looked startled as I continued to tell him about Jesus and then asked in a very matter-of-fact tone, “Is all this true?” I assured him it was God’s Word, and most certainly true. “Well, what does this mean for me, is there something I need to do besides my good works?” John asked.

Just as I was getting into the message of salvation and explaining why Jesus died on the cross, one of his co-workers opened the passenger door and slipped in the back seat of the truck. I glanced at him and smiled and continued to talk with John. He quietly sat in the back, even leaning forward to hear what I was saying, but said nothing.

John and I continued our conversation and he asked if there was a difference between little sins and big sins. He continued by asking, “If I tell a lie, isn’t that just a little sin? But the guy who robs the bank or kills somebody, aren’t they really big bad sins? I told him sin was sin in the eyes of the Lord and if you told one lie you are a liar, right, I asked? John looked puzzled and then said, I don’t get it. If everyone believes in Jesus are they going to go to heaven? I assured him that Jesus’ word says to believe in Him alone and you will be saved. We talked about why Jesus had to die on the cross and about His resurrection. I also shared with him about repentance, and faith, and a changed life.

John’s lunch had been sitting on his lap this whole time. He wrapped up his sandwich and put it next to him in the truck and turned to me and said, “I want to know Jesus and forgiveness of my sins. Please tell me more.” John took the Good News card and immediately began reading it out loud. While he was reading it, another of John’s co-workers arrived and climbed into the front passenger seat of the truck, saying hello and trying to be friendly.

John turned to him and asked him to please just listen then he turned back to me and asked a few more questions and I shared a little of my personal testimony and salvation story and what Jesus means to me and what happened in my life. I shared several more Bible verses with him and told him of the Lord’s faithfulness, love and mercy toward us. After hearing all of this John said he believed and was ready to repent and place his faith and trust in Jesus and start living for Him today.” I prayed with him and he prayed to ask God for forgiveness of his sins and then said, “Wow, I feel so refreshed, so different, what has happened to me?”, he asked.

I explained that the Lord now lives within him, which is the Holy Spirit, and it is no longer he who lives but Christ who lives in him. Galatians 2:20.

Leroy, the man who had just arrived in the passenger seat, spoke up and said, “John, you’re saved and you’re going to go to heaven when you die.” He explained that he had been saved since age 17 and was so excited to hear about John’s decision to give his heart and life to Jesus. Hearing this, I turned to the man in the back seat and asked Joe what he believed about God.

Obviously touched by what was happening, Joe’s eyes welled up with tears as he admitted, “I really don’t know anything about God but I want to.” I turned to Leroy and asked him to tell Joe how much God loves him.

As Leroy earnestly assured Joe that Jesus died for him, John chimed in, too. “Give him that Good News card, Judy” he said, and with tears of repentance, Joe, age 64, was also ready to believe and receive forgiveness of his sins and invite Jesus Christ into his life and heart. John and Joe both invited Jesus into their lives, seeking forgiveness and repentance. LeRoy, age 68, then prayed for both of his co-workers and for me also. He promised to help them grow in their faith and invited them to his church. They drove away, headed back to work, praising the Lord and rejoicing as they waved.

I stood there for a moment with tears running down my face, praising the Lord for this wonderful divine appointment. I felt numb from what had just happened, yet in awe at the love and mercy the Lord shows us. I prayed for these men again as I saw their truck drive out of sight, knowing that one day we would be reunited in heaven.

Dear friends, let me encourage you to listen and the next time you hear someone sneeze, what will you say? I hope you’ll see how the Lord can use everyday, ordinary things as opportunities for us to be His witnesses.

Remember the truth behind the words spoken after a sneeze, God bless you, they can change a life. Many myths were spread centuries ago about sneezing. Many believed that your heart stopped beating when you sneezed, and that is why bystanders would say, “God bless you”, hoping the person wouldn’t die. Well, that myth is not true, your heart does not stop when you sneeze. When your chest contracts because of a sneeze, your blood flow is momentarily constricted. As a result, the rhythm of your heart may change, but it definitely doesn’t stop.

When I was a child, I always heard, and I guess learned to say, “God bless you” when I heard someone sneeze, whether it was a family member, a friend, or a stranger. I thought it was just a nice gesture.

As I grew older and became a Christian, I continued to say “God bless You” when I would hear someone sneeze. Although I must admit, I heard fewer and fewer people offering those words of truth. Sometimes I heard the greeting shorten to just “Bless you”, of which I would ask, “who will bless you?”

Today I think the common sneeze is just another opportunity to open a conversation with a stranger, and so I pray for the Lord to use the occasion to give me and you the opportunity to share the Gospel message with the “sneezer.” Keep your ears open, my friend, a witnessing opportunity might be just around the next corner when you hear someone sneeze!
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If you are not sure where you will spend eternity, please contact me or a Christian friend as soon as possible, we have some GOOD NEWS we want to share with you.

I would also like to help you with witnessing materials. If you need New Testaments, tracts, GOOD NEWS witnessing cards, a wooden cross to wear around your neck, or if you would like a copy of my book, UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, please contact me at judy@wheelpower.org and visit our web site at www.wheelpower.org.

ALSO FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR PRAYER REQUESTS.

AND MY DEAR CHRISTIAN FRIENDS, I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO STAY FAITHFUL TO YOUR MISSION AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU
GO AND BE BOLD FOR GOD!

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We couldn’t have ordered a more perfect day for bicycling.  It was early morning as we pedaled down a major highway in West Virginia.  Just ahead, the sun was rising and panoramic views of the countryside surrounded us.   Spinning down a hill, we noticed a car parked on the right shoulder with its hood up.  The smooth road and fabulous day tempted us to coast on by, but I immediately knew we needed to stop.  Since several of us were riding together, we did not hesitate to offer our help.

An unhappy man was sitting in the driver’s seat of the disabled vehicle.  Naturally, we asked if there was anything we could do to help. Frustrated and muttering under his breath, Phil said his car had a full tank of gas, had just been serviced, and had never stalled before.  We offered to make a call for him on one of our cell phones.  He shook his head, saying, “I called my son-in-law already and he’s on the way. But Thanks anyhow.”  One of the other riders started talking to Phil, so I watched him carefully as she spoke.  He exhibited all the classic signs of “I don’t want to talk to you about this.”  She was gracious and very caring in her conversation, telling him that we were Christians and just wanted to help if we could.  His response was, “I’ve got everything in life I want.  Don’t waste your time on me.  Others have already tried.  You can just go on about your merry way and I’ll be fine.”  My teammate looked at me, not sure where to take the conversation from there.

After I silently prayed to God for the right words to say, I moved closer to the car and remarked, “You know, Phil, when we first got here, you said your car never broke down before.  Is that correct?” He agreed.  “So, why do you think it happened now, on this road, and at this time?”

“Who knows or even cares,” he said impatiently. “I just want to get the tow truck and get my car fixed.”

“Well, do you have a good mechanic?”  I asked.  “Oh you bet I do.  I have the best mechanic in town.  I’ll get him on this right away and it will be running good as new in no time.”

“Well, I’m glad to hear that you have a fine mechanic.  Let me ask you this, Phil.  If you were going to build a house, would you find the best contractor available?”

“Oh you know I would.  We don’t compromise on things like that around here,” he said emphatically.

My next question led into spiritual things.  “Phil, have you ever done anything in your life that has not been real good?”  I quickly admitted that I myself had done some things I wish I hadn’t.  Continuing to speak candidly, I pointed out that most of us have told a lie or maybe said something in anger.   “Don’t you agree?”       He answered, “Well of course.  I’ve gotten upset and told lies.  I don’t have the best control over my temper.  I kind of fly off the handle once in awhile.”

“You know Phil, I continued, according to God’s Word, all those bad things are actually called ‘sin’.  The Bible tells us that if we have told even one lie, we are liars.  Have you ever gotten a ticket?”  I asked.

“Oh yeah, I’ve gotten plenty of tickets.”

“Well, what did the judge say, Phil?  Maybe something like, you could pay the fine or else go to jail?  I’m sure you realize that life is made up of choices.  When we sin, how do we get rid of it?  Do we pay a fine or do some jail time?  What do you think happens?  Can we do enough good things to erase the bad?”

Phil quietly looked down and said nothing.  I got his attention by holding up the wooden cross I was wearing around my neck, and then I asked,  “Do you know what Jesus did on the cross for you, Phil?”  He hesitated and glanced back down to the floorboard, so I went on, “Jesus died on the cross and paid the penalty for my sins and yours.  He did all that for us because He loves us.  He paid the fine and the price for our sins.”

At that point, I noticed Phil’s attitude change; he suddenly seemed interested in the message I was sharing with him.  “Phil, it’s a wonderful blessing to have family, friends, and a great mechanic.  But when you die, where will you spend eternity?”

To my surprise, Phil pleaded, “Oh please, don’t ask me about that.  I try never to think about dying and what will happen next.  My daughter and son-in-law have shared this message with me for years, and they say they pray for me.”

I assured him, “Phil, you don’t have to be afraid.  Just like you need the best mechanic to fix your car, we need a Savior to repair us because of our sin.  I believe that’s why we’re here and the reason you had car trouble.  You needed to hear this message of hope and salvation again, and be challenged to make a choice with this information.  If you died today, Phil, I asked, would God invite you into His home in heaven?”

Without hesitation he answered, “Oh, No way.  I’m not perfect, not even good – at least not good enough to get into heaven.”  He paused a moment, and then added, “In any case, why do I need to make a decision now?  I’m only in my 50’s.  I have plenty of time left before I die.”

“Phil,” I warned him, “none of us knows the day or time when we will die.  How many people have you known who died at a young age?”

He thought for a moment, and then admitted, “Several.  You’re right.  We don’t know, do we?”

I continued our conversation, quoting several Scripture verses, including John 3:16, 1 John 1:9, and Ephesians 2:8-9, sharing God’s love, forgiveness, and gift of eternal life.  I told Phil I had always thought that if I was good enough I might earn my way to heaven too.  But then I heard this same message, read the gospel of John from the Bible, and asked the Lord to forgive me of my sins and invited Him into my heart and my life.

Referring to our GOOD NEWS witnessing card, I let him read the verses and look at each statement.  With tears in his eyes, Phil looked up at me and asked, “Judy, will God forgive me?  Can I really be saved and know I’ll go to heaven?”

From the corner of my eye, I saw a pickup truck pull up behind Phil’s car, but he was oblivious to it.  I answered him with a big YES and I asked if he truly believed in Jesus and would he like to pray here and now to receive God’s free gift of salvation.  He exclaimed, “Oh, Yes, please!”  I led Phil in the prayer of salvation, and afterwards he got out of his car, hugged me and several others, and thanked us a hundred times over.  At that point, he noticed the pickup and said, “That’s my son-in-law, the one who has been praying for me.  Let’s go tell him.”  When we greeted Daryl, Phil blurted out, “Guess what?  I’ve just been saved!”  Daryl threw his arms around him and the two men stood there, literally crying for joy.  Daryl commented that he had passed our ministry truck back in town, so he knew when he pulled in behind us that we were witnessing to his father-in-law.  He had stayed in his truck to pray, just as he had been doing for so many years!

IN CONCLUSION …… Let me share that

I had many thoughts running through my mind that morning.  Phil appeared not to be interested in things of the Lord at all, so I seriously considered just continuing down the road after telling him that we would pray for him. But I listened to that still small voice inside and trusted the Lord. I was obedient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

Even though we probably all pray for situations like this, we often miss them because we are going too fast in life or have other things that are on our mind.  We need to ask the Lord to show us how encounters like these can be opportunities to share the love and Good News of Jesus Christ.   We should always keep Jesus as the center of our attention!

I believe I can only be His witness when I genuinely love people enough to want to share Christ with them.

I like to think of it this way: Just as we would not start a job without having the right tools and equipment, neither should we start each day without the strength and the power we need to overcome life’s challenges. Being properly equipped to be the God’s messengers is the responsibility of every Christian.  You can find that in 2 Corinthians 5:20. We must be prepared with prayer to meet the tasks that face us every minute of every day.  Many Christians either forget or ignore some of the basics needed to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.  This can leave us ill-equipped to make godly decisions.

I believe Christians must be willing and able to explain who Jesus is, what God has done in our lives, and how the Holy Spirit enables us to share our faith and what it means to.  C.S. Lewis said that sharing our faith with a non-believer is like one beggar telling another beggar where to get food.

But, by telling others how the Lord brought us to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ is a great way to testify.  It is important to identify the highlights of our testimony so that we can incorporate segments into our witnessing opportunities.  We want to include the “before, how, and after” of our conversion when we share.  It takes practice to keep it simple and uncluttered, without unnecessary details.  We want our story to be personal, and easy to connect to something we already know about our listener.  We need to avoid religious words and expressions that non-believers would not understand.

Probably one of the best guides for sharing your personal testimony was written by Charles Swindoll in his book, Come Before Winter.  He suggests the following …

1. You want to be listened to, so be interesting.

2. You want to be understood, so be logical.

3. You want the moment of your new birth to be clear, so be specific.

4. You want your testimony to be used, so be practical.

5. You want your testimony to produce results, so be warm and genuine.

I like that.  It’s helped me a lot as I’ve gone out and been witnessing for Jesus Christ all these years.

THE FINISH LINE!

And remember this: the one thing people want most in life is to be loved, and there is no greater joy and blessing than to introduce someone to Jesus Christ, the source of all love.

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If you are not sure where you will spend eternity, please contact me or a Christian friend as soon as possible, we have some GOOD NEWS we want to share with you.

I would also like to help you with witnessing materials.  If you need New Testaments, tracts, GOOD NEWS witnessing cards, a wooden cross to wear around your neck, or would like a copy of my book, UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, please contact me at judy@wheelpower.org and visit our web site at www.wheelpower.org.

ALSO FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR PRAYER REQUESTS.

AND MY CHRISTIAN FRIENDS, I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO STAY FAITHFUL and obedient TO YOUR MISSION AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU

GO AND BE BOLD FOR GOD!

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One of my mottos is this: there’s a song for everything. I like music and I usually have a tune running through my head, it keeps me singing all day long!!!

After a long day of riding bicycles and traveling through the desert in Arizona, we arrived at our destination, a nice little motel, route 66 style, in a quaint little town. On this particular night we were being treated by a local church to a night with beds, a swimming pool, and some quiet time to rest and pray.

As I arrived in town, I went straight to the registration desk at the motel to take care of the room assignments for the team. Cheryl greeted me at the front desk and was very accommodating and helpful. As I was standing there filing out forms, I felt the leading of the Holy Spirit, so I began to pray that no one would come into the office so I would have time to talk with this woman about Jesus.

After the registration process was completed, I asked Cheryl what she believed about God. She told me she was raised in a church and knew there was a God, and she knew that Jesus died on the cross — but that was about it.

In the background I could hear the radio playing a song from the 60’s. The tune was: “What the World needs now is love, sweet love…..”

The words were a perfect introduction to the Gospel message of God’s love and Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross at Calvary. I shared a few Scripture verses with Cheryl. Then she asked me what the expression, “born-again” means, even though I had not used those words. I explained to her that each person must choose to place their faith and belief in God alone, seeking forgiveness for their sins. It’s like having a spiritual birthday.

This lovely woman in her mid-60’s wanted to know if she really could be forgiven for everything she had ever done. She was also concerned about her eternity for herself and her husband, who was very ill. I helped her see, through God’s Word, that Christ died for all of our sins, those of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. With great joy, Cheryl came to the saving knowledge of Jesus by placing her trust in Him and believing in her heart that He saved her. She received forgiveness for her sins and a new life in Christ that very afternoon, in the lobby of that motel in Arizona.

What an awesome God we serve! He ordained everything that day: the timing, the music, His Words, and the heart of one of his children ready to receive His special gift.

I gave Cheryl a New Testament. I put a wooden cross around her neck, and also gave her some helpful Biblical resources. I asked about her husband, and she told me he was home dying. He had refused medical treatment, she told me, and was very stubborn, just waiting for his life to be over.

She began to weep, realizing that he was so angry with life and had no hope. But she agreed to share with him what happened in her life today and that she was born again into the family of God. I assured her I would be praying for them both.

The next morning Cheryl came to work early just to see us off. She was proudly wearing her cross and smiling as bright as the Arizona sun.

She told me she spoke with her husband about her faith and trust in Jesus. She read him some of the Bible verses, and then — with a big smile—she told me that her husband agreed to have a talk with the Pastor.

As I rode out of town that morning, I could still hear that 60’s tune…..and I started singing out loud: “What the world needs now, is God’s sweet love, It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of. What the world needs now is God’s love sweet love, no not just for some but for everyone.

As we read in Isaiah 55:11, The Lord’s Word will not return void — or as the New Living Translation reads: It is the same with my word, says the Lord. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

We must believe that as we share with people about Jesus and plant the seeds of His love, forgiveness, and salvation — that one day that seed will take root and grow into salvation.

Have you ever stayed at a motel, hotel or attended a conference? If so, did you ever really look at the person who assisted you with your registration? Did you pray for them or pray for the opportunity to share Jesus with them? I’m sure many of you have — but I know for me it seemed very difficult to just start a conversation with a stranger about Jesus. Many years ago and after many failed attempts, I asked the Lord to give me compassion for the lost and to open my heart and eyes to every person He put in my path. I wanted to show His love and share something that would open their eyes to Jesus — but I needed “Divine Intervention”.

One day I realized that without Jesus, people are doomed to an eternity separated from our loving Father. It was then that the Lord showed me I had to forget about myself, my agenda, and not be ashamed to tell others about who He is. I also came to recognize that it was my responsibility as a Christian to be the Lord’s messenger (2 Corinthians 5:20 and Matthew 28:19-20).

In my pursuit to be more like Christ, Jesus’ words found in the Gospel of John chapter 15, verse16 made my purpose for living even more evident. Jesus says, “You did not chose me but I chose you and I chose you to GO and BEAR fruit, fruit that will last forever.” Wow, there is was again, I was told by the Lord to tell others about Him. But how, Lord, was my question. What would I say and who would listen? The Lord showed me that when I surrendered my life to Christ and was saved, I received the power of the Holy Spirit and it was He who lives within me and empowers me to do God’s work.

Here’s an idea you might want to try before going into an establishment where you need to register or tend to “business”. Pray before leaving your car, ask the Lord to prepare the way and the heart of the person who will assist you. As you start your business dealings, be sure to greet the person with a smile, giving your name but also getting at least their first name.

Continue to Smile. Use their name several times. Don’t be in a hurry just to rush through the process. Look at this opportunity as one given to you by the Lord. It might be the only time you will ever see or talk to this person so take advantage of it and plant some seeds and maybe water ones that have already been planted. And we never know when the person will be ripe and ready for the harvest and you’ll be there to guide them in that process.

Please don’t be tempted to be silent and say nothing, thus missing the blessing.

Remember a witnessing opportunity may only knock once, but temptation to be silent bangs on your front door forever.

Please look for the opportunity to witness. Pray for the Lord’s leading. Resist the devil and his temptations and the Holy Spirit will guide you and speak through you as you share your love and faith in Jesus.

God bless you my dear friends and If you are not sure where you will spend eternity, please contact me or a Christian friend as soon as possible, we have some GOOD NEWS we want to share with you.

I would also like to help you with witnessing materials. If you need New Testaments, tracts, GOOD NEWS witnessing cards, a wooden cross to wear around your neck, or would like a copy of my book, UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, please contact me at judy@wheelpower.org or visit our web site at www.wheelpower.org.

ALSO FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR PRAYER REQUESTS.

AND MY CHRISTIAN FRIENDS, I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO STAY FAITHFUL TO YOUR MISSION AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU GO AND BE BOLD FOR GOD!

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One day I had to make a brief stop at a hardware store while traveling through Arkansas. As I passed through the automotive department, I noticed that one of the employees was wearing a special button on her lapel that proclaimed “Today’s my birthday.” That was how I met Kisha.

Well, I love celebrating birthdays – anybody’s birthday – so I went up to Kisha, wished her a Happy Birthday, and began to sing to her: “It’s yer birthday, it’s yer birthday, you’re one year older now, it’s yer birthday, it’s yer birthday stand up and take a bow……”

Well, Kisha blushed, but I could tell that she was happy to be recognized on her birthday – even by a stranger. I felt the Lord’s prompting, so I began to chat with her. I asked her about her family and her life — then I asked her a very important question. “Kisha,” I said, “Do you know that God loves you, and that He created you on this very special day because He has a plan and purpose for your life?”

Kisha admitted she hadn’t given God much thought — but she was curious to know if there really was a God. She glanced around – looking a little nervous – checking to see if any customers could overhear the conversation – then she leaned toward me and whispered a sad confession: “I don’t think God could love me,” she said, “considering all the terrible things I’ve done in my life.”

I assured Kisha that we’ve all done things that are wrong — but because God does love us He gave us His son, Jesus. As I held out the little cross I was wearing around my neck, I told Kisha about Jesus – how He died on the cross to pay the price for her sins and mine. I told her a little about my own life, and how God had rescued me, too, in the middle of my sins and gave me new beginning.

Kisha’s eyes were wide as she heard the Truth I shared from God’s Word. I assured her of the forgiveness available to her through Christ, and the new life waiting for her if she would believe by faith and surrender her will to God’s will.

Kisha was overjoyed to hear this GOOD NEWS. She desperately wanted to believe and receive forgiveness of her sins and have a fresh new start. She thanked me for taking time to talk with her and then she turned, as if to leave. Suddenly however, she turned back to me and asked what she had to do to receive this free gift of salvation.

That morning, as we stood in the automotive aisle — with all the oil, the filters, and other car supplies surrounding us — Kisha found Jesus and through faith she believed and received the best birthday gift ever, forgiveness of her sins and a new life in Christ.

The story didn’t end there, though. I wanted to give Kisha a little present for turning 21, and to celebrate her new spiritual birthday as well. Since she was now a born-again Christian, I knew she would need a copy of God’s Word to help her on her new journey in life. I dashed out to my car to get her a cross just like the one I was wearing, and a copy of the New Testament — but when I returned Kisha was surrounded by customers. I believe the Lord held everyone back earlier just so I could have some time to talk with her.

While I was waiting to see Kisha again and give her my presents, the department manager — Betty – approached asking if she could help me. I told her I had just spoken with Kisha and had a birthday present for her. She could see the cross and Bible I was holding in my hands and with tears in her eyes Betty reached out and put her hand on my arm and told me that she was a Christian, too. I’ve been praying for Kisha for a long time, she told me, and for her salvation. I put that birthday pin on her today, even though she didn’t want to wear it. The Lord answered my prayer by bringing you here just for Kisha — and I thank you for being His faithful witness.”

Betty went over and hugged Kisha – Kisha then turned and hugged me – and I presented her gifts to her! As I left, Betty assured me that she would help Kisha begin her new life in Christ and disciple her.

I left the store that day singing a new song …. “To God be the Glory great things He has done,” — and I heard Betty singing as I faded out of sight, rejoicing and knowing what the Lord had just done.

Let me ask you dear friends, what impact does God want YOU to have today? Is he using you to place a button on someone’s lapel? Start a conversation? Or just lend a helping hand?

I encourage you to be OBSERVANT wherever you go…. look for birthday buttons, or team t-shirts, a special hat — anything that you can use to start a conversation with people. And remember to smile and be friendly, that’s what Jesus would do if He was in your shoes.

And by the way, isn’t He in your shoes, walking with you every step of the way?

Let’s remember we are His Ambassadors and we must represent Him well.

2 Corinthians 5:20 says: “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

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My friends, if you are not sure where you will spend eternity, please contact me or a Christian friend as soon as possible, we have some GOOD NEWS we want to share with you.

I would also like to help you with witnessing materials. If you need New Testaments, tracts, GOOD NEWS witnessing cards, a wooden cross to wear around your neck, or would like a copy of my book, UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, please contact me personally at judy@wheelpower.org and visit our web site at www.wheelpower.org.

ALSO FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR ANY PRAYER REQUESTS.

AND MY CHRISTIAN FRIENDS, I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO STAY FAITHFUL TO YOUR MISSION AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND USE YOU AS YOU

GO AND BE BOLD FOR GOD!

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Initiating a conversation with a total stranger is sometimes very difficult, but I believe it shouldn’t be when we know that what we have to share is a matter of life and death! It is so hard to talk to strangers that most Christians do not share their faith because of this daunting task. The following true story is an example of how much God wants to use us, even while we’re waiting at “Isle Five”. The question is… are we ready and willing to be used?

One summer as we were traveling across America, we found ourselves running out of water very quickly in the dry terrain of Arizona. So we stopped at Walmart to pick up two more ice coolers. I proceeded to the check-out, placed the coolers on the moveable counter, and then handed the clerk our tax-exempt card. Rod, the cashier, wearing a standard blue vest, typed in our tax-exempt number. He got a funny look on his face and then typed it in again. After hitting the print button, Rod removed the piece of paper and handed it to me. It simply stated that our religious tax-exempt organization was not tax-exempt in Arizona.

“Ma’am, I’m really sorry, I’ve never seen this before. Let me call my supervisor; it should only take a few minutes,” he assured me. Rod then reached up and turned off the light at aisle five. I turned to the woman standing behind me to alert her of the delay. I thought for a moment that maybe I would have some time to talk with her about the Lord, but as soon as she saw the light go out she moved to another aisle.

Within thirty seconds, Rod’s supervisor, Mark, arrived wearing a red Walmart vest. He read the piece of paper, typed in the numbers again, and acknowledged that he too had never seen anything like this before. He informed me that he would have to speak with his supervisor to determine what could be done and that it might take several minutes. I chuckled to myself as I wondered what color vest the next level of management would be wearing. I replied, however, “Thank you so much. I’ll wait.” When I realized that Rod could not serve another customer, I knew this was a “Divine Appointment”. There we both were, idle at aisle five!

To engage him in conversation, I asked Rod to tell me how long he had worked at Walmart. He said it had been five years. I asked if he had a family and he told me that he was married and had two sons. Without hesitation, I then asked him if he knew that God loved him.

Rod smiled and answered, “Oh, yes, I think I know God loves me.” Holding up the wooden cross that I wear around my neck, I asked, “Do you know what Jesus did for you?” and again he quickly relied, “Yes, He died for the sins of the world.

“You’re absolutely right,” I said. I then asked Rod if he went to a local church and he said he attended St. Mary’s. I added, “Since I’m obviously not from this area, is that a Catholic church?” Learning that it was, I used our common Catholic backgrounds to connect with Rod by saying, “I learned about God and Jesus as well as lots of good, moral lessons for living while growing up in the church. You’re probably teaching your children these same things, too?” Rod did enjoy taking his family to church and I praised him for that. “Rod, let me ask you another question. When you die, what do you think will happen?”

He looked up at me with hesitation and responded, “Well, I sure hope I’m going to go to heaven. That’s how I’m living my life, trying to do what’s right.”

“Boy, that’s exactly what I used to think too, Rod!” I said. Then one day, I started to read the Bible for myself.” I shared some of my personal testimony with Rod, and emphasized the fact that we can never get to heaven by our good works. We will always fail. Once again, I held up my cross and asked, “Rod, if you and I could earn our way to heaven by being good enough, why did Jesus have to suffer so much pain and die on the cross?”

“Wow…that’s a really good question.” By now, Rod was hanging on to my every word that I was sharing about the Lord.

I pulled out a GOOD NEWS witnessing card and started to share it with him. “Rod, I know that you recognize that we are all sinners. You know that our sin separates us from God. Salvation isn’t about church membership or just living by the “golden rule”. If we die without trusting Christ as our Savior, we will be separated from Him forever.” I asked Rod to read with me Ephesians 2:8-9 from the card. I looked directly in his eyes and said, “Rod, God’s Word says that we must believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, repent of our sins, and ask Him into our heart and life. It is true that good works follow our act of faith, but you must realize you’re never going to be good enough to get to heaven just by doing good things. Heaven is only possible through the shed blood of Jesus on the cross of Calvary and when we acknowledge that He died in our place, paying for the things we have done wrong.”

I was able to share the message of salvation with Rod before I saw two men approaching. Mark, Rod’s supervisor, was escorted by a man wearing a white shirt and tie. “Miss Bowman, I’m sorry this has taken so long.” (Inside, I was praising God for the time to share with Rod) He continued, “I tried making a phone call to straighten it out, but to no avail. I’ve just never seen this error message before.”

“Maybe you don’t get too many travelers from Virginia,” I commented.

He then replied, “Well, at least you’ve got a positive attitude about it. I’m sorry there isn’t anything we can do. But I do thank you for shopping at Walmart.”

“We’ll pay the tax today because we really need these coolers. We trust God to take care of us, and I’m sure He’ll make it up somewhere down the road. God’s blessings to you,” I said as I handed each of them a tract, “and thank you for taking so much time to help.” They smiled, thanked me again, and departed.

Meanwhile, Rod was back to work, ringing up my transaction. I took my time paying the bill, praying that God would give me something else to say to Rod. When the sale was finalized, I said to Rod, “Before I leave, I just want to share this with you. You’ve heard the gospel message today. You realize it’s not about going to church, and it’s not about good works. It’s all about believing in Jesus and asking Him to forgive your sins and surrendering your life to Him as Lord. Once you’ve done that, the Holy Spirit will come and live within you, empowering you, Rod, to live a fruitful Christian life.” I turned the GOOD NEWS card over and showed it to him, “There’s a prayer of salvation on the back of this card that you can read and pray whenever you are ready. It’s between you and God, Rod. I’ll leave it with you and I’ll pray that you will want to make this decision and commitment sometime soon. I’ll also leave you this tract which is my personal story, you might enjoy reading it.” As I handed him both pieces of literature, I said, “Rod, when you’re ready to let Christ into your life, remember that you can pray the prayer on the back of this card.”

Rod reached out, took the card, and slowly looked up at me. With the simplicity of a child taking his first step, he said, “Can we do it now?”

Tears came to my eyes as I answered him, “Sure, Rod, now is a great time!” I led Rod in a simple heartfelt prayer; and with sincerity, he repeated each line, affirming his faith in Jesus and sealing his desire to trust in Christ alone.

Interestingly, Rod had never turned the light back on at aisle five. After he prayed for salvation, I shook his hand, and he came around the counter and gave me a hug. I went out to our van to get him a New Testament. I dated it with his spiritual birthday and inscribed a short personal note to my new brother in Christ. Rod smiled as he accepted his new gift, and I assured him the mission team would be praying for him. As we said good-bye, I turned back, smiled and said, “Rod, I’ll see you in heaven when we check out from this world to spend eternity with Jesus!”

Let me conclude with these final thoughts:

It occurred to me that I could have talked to Rod about the weather or our mission trip across America, or our visit to the Grand Canyon the day before, or I could have simply stood there and said nothing. I even considered calling my grandsons to say hello. However, the Lord prompted me with the boldness to speak up and turn the conversation to spiritual matters and what a blessing to see Rod come to Christ.
I believe these opportunities are available for all Christians, just pray and seek the Lord and forget about yourself and your agenda when you are out in the world.
For more in-depth teaching on how to talk to anyone, anytime, anyplace about Jesus go to our web site for a complete teaching lesson based on this story.
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If you are not sure where you will spend eternity, please contact me or a Christian friend as soon as possible, we have some GOOD NEWS we want to share with you.

I would also like to help you with witnessing materials. If you need New Testaments, tracts, GOOD NEWS witnessing cards, a wooden cross to wear around your neck, or would like a copy of my book, UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, please contact me at judy@wheelpower.org and visit our web site at www.wheelpower.org. Also feel free to contact me with any questions or prayer requests. An my dear Christian friends, I want to encourage you to say faithful to your mission, and may God bless you as you go and be bold for God.

ALSO FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR PRAYER REQUESTS.

AND MY CHRISTIAN FRIENDS, I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO STAY FAITHFUL TO YOUR MISSION AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU
GO AND BE BOLD FOR GOD!
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THIS SECTION FOR WEB SITE ONLY:

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK

Let’s discuss this real-life situation.
• What would you have done?
• Would you have realized that this was a “Divine Appointment”?
• Are you looking for ways to share the love and gospel of Jesus Christ with folks
you meet?

ROAD BLOCKS THAT KEEP US FROM SHARING OUR FAITH

At some point in your Christian life, I am sure you, like me, have had to examine why you do not share your faith more frequently, more consistently, and more joyfully. I hope you will take the time to look up and read each Scripture verse referenced throughout this booklet – only God’s Word can change us. Be honest with yourself. Pray and ask God to set you free from the things that hinder you in being His Ambassador (2 Corinthians 5:20).

There are many reasons why Christians do not talk to others about Jesus. Maybe by answering the following questions you will be able to take a closer look at the road blocks in your life:

1. Is fear my problem? Am I afraid of rejection? (Psalm 27:1)
2. Do I know how to share the gospel and my personal testimony? (1 Peter 3:15)
3. Is my life so busy that I don’t even think about witnessing? (Psalm 46:10)
4. Do I recognize that God wants to use me and that my confidence comes from Him? (Philippians 4:19)
5. Am I too concerned that people won’t really see Christ in me? (Romans 1:16)
6. Do I lack true love and compassion for those who are lost? (Colossians 3:12)

TURNING GOD’S TRUTH INTO ACTION

God’s “Divine Appointments” – I believe He has scheduled them for each of us if we are bold enough and willing to take the time to realize that people everywhere are waiting to hear the truth. The one thing people want most in life is to be loved. There is no greater joy and blessing than to introduce someone to the source of all love – Jesus Christ.

Ask yourself these questions and pray for the Lord to show you His will:

1. HOW CAN I BE FRIENDLY TO A STRANGER?
a. SAY something personal. For example, make a comment about what they are wearing, about the weather, current events, etc. Say it with a smile and in a friendly manner.
b. INTRODUCE yourself early in the conversation with just your first name. Learn their first name and use it often throughout your discussion. People like hearing their name.
c. REMEMBER, people enjoy talking about themselves. Ask a question about their job, their family, their hobbies – something non-threatening. Use the L.I.N.K. method. (See page 23)
d. WEAR something that might serve as an icebreaker (e.g., a cross, Christian-style t-shirt, or hat).

2. DO I HAVE COMPASSION FOR THE LOST?

a. CARE, really care about people. Let them see that you are real and genuine. You may be the only Christian they are ever going to meet, so let the LIGHT of Christ shine through you, but don’t forget to also tell them who Jesus is. Jesus says in Matthew 5:16: “…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
b. LOVE, really love people as Christ does. Colossians 3:12-14: “Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. You must make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive the person who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love. Love is what binds us all together in perfect harmony.”

KEY INGREDIENTS TO BEING A BOLD WITNESS FOR THE LORD

I believe that our earnest prayer and desire should be that we live according to God’s will, so we are ready to reach out to someone who is lost and needs to hear the truth. We must keep our priorities in proper alignment.

JESUS TAUGHT US……

• The first and greatest commandment is to: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” He also taught us that the second greatest commandment is to “Love your
neighbor as yourself” (paraphrase of Matthew 22:37-39).

• Our time is very valuable, so it is important to be aware of how we use every minute of every day. We should live out God’s agenda, not ours! (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

• Our hearts belong to Christ. Luke 12:34: “Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.” 1 Timothy 1:5: “The purpose of my instruction is that all the Christians there would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and sincere faith.”

THE FINISH LINE!

It is so important to remain faithful in prayer and be willing to be used by the Lord. We should strive to be sensitive to the people God puts in our path and prepared to start a conversation anytime and anywhere. Take a close look at the roadblocks in your life that are preventing you from talking to others about Jesus. Once you get past the road blocks, you’ll be blessed! God wants us to speak the truth in love and with compassion!

None of us wants to see someone die and spend eternity separated from God. Neither does the Lord desire for this to happen (2 Peter 3:9). So go the extra mile, knowing that it is the power of the Holy Spirit speaking through you that enables you to speak His truth in love.

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Today I want to share with you one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned about people in my many years of traveling across America on a bicycle, and it is this: people won’t care how much you know… until they know how much you care.

I believe that’s the secret to being an effective witness for Jesus Christ.

Let me tell you about Andrea, and how this applied to her life.

One day, while stopping at a convenience store to purchase a bottle of water, I met a 28-year-old cashier name Andrea, whom God placed in my path for a special reason.

I’m always looking for opportunities to talk with people about Jesus and so after a brief hello, I asked her what she believed about God.

The store was very busy that day, and I knew that I might have just a moment of Andrea’s undivided attention. She gave me a response I’d heard many times before.

“I believe there is a God,” she said, “but I don’t know much about Him personally.”

Then she told me that for years her sister had been talking about Jesus and a personal relationship she had with Him.

“But I gotta tell ya,” Andrea said, “I just don’t understand all that.”

In that busy store, God kept the steady flow of customers away from Andrea’s line just long enough for me to explain the basic message of the Gospel. I could see in her eyes that she really wanted to talk but there wasn’t time. She then asked if I could meet her outside by the picnic table in about 5 minutes, when she took her break. In that five minutes I prayed for Andrea and the opportunity the Lord was giving me to tell her about Jesus.

Soon she came out and sat down with me. I asked her a little about her life, and within a few minutes I realized how desperately she needed someone to care about her. She had endured a difficult, unwanted divorce, loneliness, and several part time jobs that were unfulfilling. Life was already becoming a battle for this very young woman. I sensed her pain, her emptiness and her lack of confidence.

Then I told her a little about myself. That I, too, had gone through a bitter divorce and was left with a 3-year-old son to raise by myself. That I too had been desperate to find some meaning and purpose in my life when I was just about her age.

How can someone put so much trust in a God they don’t know or can’t see?” Andrea asked.

“You know Andrea, we can know God through His Word, the Bible. We can also know God through creation, and we can know God from other believers like your sister and myself.”

Then I showed her the cross that I wear around my neck and told her about God’s love demonstrated through His son, Jesus.

I said, “His death on the cross paid the price for our sins, those things that you and I have done wrong. And His resurrection gives us eternal hope so we can live with Him forever.”

Andrea leaned forward toward me… she looked deeply into my eyes, with tears beginning to form, and then she asked:

“Did Jesus die for me, too?” “Will He forgive me? Can I really know Him the way you do… the way my sister does? I’ve done so many things wrong,” she told me, “but now I want to turn my life around and have a new beginning.”

I shared with Andrea several Bible verses assuring her of God’s love and forgiveness and what she must do to be saved.

Andrea, in her sweet, innocent and humble tenderness bowed her head and admitted her sin. She cried out, “Oh Lord, Jesus, I need you, I believe in you, and I surrender my life to you, please save me?”

I reached across the picnic table and grasped her hands. I could almost hear the angels in heaven rejoicing. The Lord had heard the prayers of Andrea’s faithful sister and had used me to help lead this lost child to the Savior.

Dear Friend, God can use you, too. Yes, in this busy life we lead we need to find time to reach out to the Andrea’s in our world.

If you want to start “GOING BOLD FOR GOD” by sharing your faith, here is the K. E. Y.:

Keep the message simple. Begin with a general greeting and then ask a simple question such as: “Do you know Jesus loves you today?

Eye contact – Yes, please look at the person and really see them and hear and feel their response to your question.

Yield to the Holy Spirit’s leading … and then move forward in sharing the Gospel message of truth and hope, the Lord will do the rest.

That’s the KEY: Keep it simple, make Eye contact, and Yield to the Holy Spirit.

And always remember this: people won’t care how much you know … until they know how much you care!

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If you are not sure where you will spend eternity, please contact me as soon as possible, I have some GOOD NEWS I want to share with you.

I would also like to help you with witnessing materials. If you need New Testaments, tracts, GOOD NEWS witnessing cards, a witnessing cross or would like a copy of my book, UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, please contact me at judy@wheelpower.org and visit our web site at www.wheelpower.org.

ALSO FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR PRAYER REQUESTS.

AND MY CHRISTIAN FRIENDS, I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO STAY FAITHFUL TO YOUR MISSION AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AS YOU GO AND BE BOLD FOR GOD!

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I’m sure you’ve heard the expression: “Age is just a number.”  I believe that is true but that number really represents our years of life and experiences.  So our age – that specific number we are today, isn’t the most important consideration as we each grow older one day at a time.  In the eyes of God, our age means nothing. Our standing with God has nothing to do with how many years we’ve accumulated… or how many good works we’ve done… or how long we’ve attended church.

Jesus said very simply, “You must be born again” – and that goes for both the young and the old.

THERE IS NO AGE REQUIREMENT!

Katherine learned this lesson at the age of 78.

I met Katherine one day when I was playing my guitar at a retirement village. She had recently broken her hip and was moving along slowly in a wheelchair.  After visiting with her for a few minutes, and hearing about her injury and some of her life, I asked Katherine what she believed would happen when she died.  With a big smile, she told me that she knew she was going to heaven.  I asked her how she knew that and she proceeded to tell me that her priest told her whole congregation on several occasions that anyone who was a member of his church was sure to get to heaven.  He assured her personally that she had nothing to worry about when she died because she had been such a good servant and had done so many wonderful things to help support the church and its people.

And with a little laugh Katherine added: “My priest also told me that if there was any problem, he’d say an extra prayer for me and speak to God himself about getting me in.”

You know Katherine’s beliefs aren’t that uncommon today. As I listened to her, I also prayed for the Lord’s words to speak through me, and I gathered up my thoughts and my boldness, then I told Katherine a little about my own childhood, always hoping I would get to heaven based on my good works.

As I held out the wooden cross I wear around my neck, I asked her if she knew why Jesus died on the cross.

“Oh Yes,” Katherine answered. “He died to pay for the sins of the world.”

You are absolutely right, Katherine, Jesus came to die for the sins of the World, I repeated.  And let me share with you one of my favorite Bible verses, I continued.   In God’s Word He tells us that it is by His grace that we have been saved through faith, and that it is not of ourselves that we are saved; it is a gift from God, not by our works, so we can’t boast.”

This verse really puzzled Katherine, so I asked her if she had ever done anything wrong, and she nodded her head in agreement. Then I explained that we’ve all done things that are wrong, and the Bible calls it sin. If we tell a lie or get angry — those sins are why Jesus died on the cross.

You know Katherine, we both agree that Jesus died for the sins of the world. So let me ask you this, “Does that mean that Jesus died for the sins that you and I have committed?”

Oh Yes, she agreed. “Well, Katherine, the Bible tells us we are to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and we shall be saved. Do you understand what that means?”

“No,” she admitted in a very confused voice, “What are we saved from? What does saved even mean?”, she asked.

I explained that there’s a penalty for our sin.  And then I asked her, “Katherine, have you ever gotten a driving ticket?”

“Well, Yes,” she admitted, “but it was a long time ago.”

“Well, there’s a penalty for breaking the law, isn’t there?  With a speeding ticket we can pay the fine or serve time in jail, we actually have a choice.   “But how do you think we can pay for those things that we’ve done wrong against God? Those sins, the lies, or moments of anger – or even worse.”

Katherine said she believed all her good works would count in her favor, like a scale that was being balanced. “The church had taught me these things since I was a little girl, and the church couldn’t be wrong”, she added. But then Katherine admitted there were others things that the church suggested she do that would help her on her heavenly journey– she was a little bewildered.

I held out my cross again and I asked Katherine, “If you and I could be good enough to get to heaven, why did Jesus die on the cross? Why did He have to go to the cross to pay for our sins if you and I could earn our own way to heaven by being good or just doing lots of good deeds?”

I continued to explain that Jesus died to set us free from the penalty of our sins and to open the gates of heaven for us.  When we believe and receive His gift of salvation then we are saved from the penalty of our sins which is suffering and death and separation from Jesus for all eternity.

The truth had finally reached Katherine’s heart. Tears welled up in her eyes … and at 78 years of age Katherine was practically pleading with me, “Judy, please tell me more. Please tell me about the truth of Jesus and salvation.  Please tell me how I can know I am saved and going to heaven.”

And so on that beautiful sunny afternoon, in a little retirement village in southern Kentucky, Katherine believed the truth of God’s word, of His death, burial, and resurrection.   She surrendered her life to Jesus, praying, repenting and asking Him for forgiveness of her sins.

Before I left, Katherine said: “I can’t wait to tell my priest — and my family, friends, and everybody here — about Jesus and what it means to be saved.”

Dear friends, I believe we all need to realize that just because people go to church, or belong to a certain denomination or serve on committees, or do good deeds — it doesn’t mean they’re saved and going to heaven.

I want to encourage you, my fellow believers, to PRAY, yes to pray for the Lord’s Divine Appointments and then to take time with people you meet every day to share with them this simple truth of God’s love and His free gift of salvation.

I believe we must Always be ready to SHARE with people God’s Word and show them His love, His truth and His forgiveness.  In 1 Peter 3:15 this command is given to each of us: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you for the hope that you have in Jesus, and do it with gentleness, love, and respect.”

Remember telling others about Jesus is a matter of  life and death!

And did you hear how excited Katherine was after she learned the Truth, after she surrendered her life and came to know Jesus?  She immediately wanted to share her salvation experience with everyone she knew and would come in contact with.

Dear friends, do you have that same zeal and enthusiasm?  If not, please ask the Lord to show you how to use your gifts and talents to reach people with the Truth of Jesus.

As I reflect on this “Divine Appointment”, I realize that a simple hour of playing the guitar at a retirement community led me to Katherine.  What a blessing that the Lord used me to lead her to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.  These kinds of opportunities are waiting for you too.  Be ready, and then go and be bold for God.

And remember this, my friends – in God’s eyes, you’re never too old or too young to be born again.   Age really is just a number!

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If you are not sure where you’ll spend eternity, please contact me or this station as soon as possible. We have some GOOD NEWS we want to share with you.

If you would like to purchase my book UNTIL THE ROAD ENDS, receive a free copy of my testimony tract, Where’s the road to HEAVEN, ask any questions or make comments, you can contact me personally at judy@wheelpower.org.  And be sure to visit our website, www.wheelpower.org.  God bless you today, my friends!

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