Partners International Women

Our Blog Has Moved - Please Update Your Links

2010-07-15T18:04:00.000-04:00

Our blog has moved to the NEW Partners International website! Please check out our blog at http://www.partnersintl.org/blog/women/. If you were subscribed to this blog, you'll need to resubscribe on the new site. Sorry for the inconvenience, but the new system will enable us to work smarter and communicate with more people. See you at the new address!

http://www.partnersintl.org/blog/women/

Prayer Is A Way Of Life

2010-05-12T13:25:00.006-04:00

Our new Prayer Coordinator, Rita, from India, will be providing a teaching on prayer each month. If you're not already receiving our Prayer E-Blasts, please sign up to receive them at our main website, Partners International Women. You can manage your subscription at any time. Read on below for the first teaching...

From Rita:

To me, prayer is a way of life rather than an activity which has to be repeated on a particular time in a specific style.

1Thessalonians5:17, “Pray continually.” As I breath continually, I am expected to pray.

Psalm 119:175, "Let my soul live and praise you, and let your rules help me." May the psalmist's prayer be our prayer.

P     Prayer is partnership delivering God’s message of salvation
          to the ends of the earth. 1 Cor. 3:9
R     Prayer is relating(relationship) to God as my heavenly
          father. Matthew 6:9
A     Prayer is agreeing with God. Matthew 18:19

Y     Prayer is yoke bearing. James 5:13-16

E     Prayer is exposing my innermost being to God. Matthew 6:5,6

R     Prayer is resisting the devil. Luke 22:40

These are just a few things which explains prayer to me.

The Bible is full of meanings of prayer.

Will each of you take time and complete the following sentence with at least 5 different words or phrases.
Prayer is _______________________.

Please go through Jesus’ prayer in John 17:15 and the lives of your favorite Bible characters and discover the treasure hidden in each of the passages.

If each one of us puts our thoughts together, I am sure we will have a very special document on Prayer by the end of this year.

Lets join together to explore the wonder of prayer.

Feel free to share your thoughts.

With every blessing in Christ,

Rita James

Am I guilty of the sin of “Sodom”?

2010-05-07T15:34:00.002-04:00

Have you come across one of those passages recently that made you stop, think and ask yourself some hard questions? I have. Just this morning, I read this passage in the book of Ezekiel (somewhat obscure book in the Bible) and wondered just how much the truths found within apply to me. And even more striking, is the comparison to the sin of Sodom. I find myself pondering the reality that God really does have a very special place in His heart for the poor and needy, and wondering if the same is true for me . . .

Ezekiel 16:49 (New American Standard Bible)

49"Behold, this was the guilt of your sister Sodom: she and her daughters had arrogance, abundant food and careless ease, but she did not help the poor and needy.”
While I would probably not think of myself as one having “careless ease” necessarily, I definitely live in a state of careless ease compared to most people, especially the women leaders we serve in the “hard places”.

As for arrogance, that’s another topic altogether. Only the Lord sees my heart and motives clearly. So, I’ll take this chance to ask Him to give me a heart check on just where I land on the arrogance/humility heart-check barometer!

Helping (or grasping the hand of, as stated in the original Hebrew language) the poor and needy, continues to be my passion. But when I honestly examine my life in light of this passage, I see that I have a bit of growing to do . . . truth be known, quite a lot.

So now it’s your turn. How does this verse impact your life? And what kind of growing would you like to do in light of its truths?

We’d love to hear from you!

Saying Goodbye to India

2010-01-26T14:40:00.002-05:00

"Big awareness--I had to see it with my own eyes, God is touching the poorest of the poor. He is not selective, He loves us all!" Cynthia

"He who began a good work in us will complete it...we have seen the completion of this good work, specifically the community health education training! Yet there is more that He wants to and intends to do." Ila

Today, we visited the House of Wholeness for Women and Children--widows and orphans--and saw such desperate need among them. Yet, we are encouraged that they are on a journey towards wholeness due to the grace of God and the faithfulness of His people!

So much lies ahead for India and we covet your prayers that the body of Christ can have a relevant place of impact and influence in this great nation. If you'd like to know more about our partners and their creative ministries, just ask any of us. :)

We do cherish your prayers for Cynthia and Ila as they fly directly to the USA this evening (in just 3 hours) and Kim as she flies to meet with our North African partners later tonight.

Thank you so much for your prayers, we have experienced such sweet peace as a result.

With love and gratitude,

Cynthia, Ila and Kim

"I love my car more than my wife"

2010-01-22T09:35:00.001-05:00

How would you respond to the above statement? While here in India, one of our cab drivers told us just how he felt about his car. As you can imagine, our hearts sank as we thought of just how his wife must be treated, and how desperate and forlorn she must feel.

This is just a tiny picture into a culture (this is true of MANY cultures worldwide) where women's value is degraded on many levels. You can see that this must be addressed carefully and prayerfully. Perhaps the very best approach is to teach men and women just what the Bible says about women from the start. She, too, is created in the image of God. Among other things, she must see herself as incredibly value to God and mankind. After all, man is literally and relationally incomplete without her. The narrative accounts of Adam and Eve, Abigail and David, Ruth and Boaz, Hannah and Elkanah, to mention just a few, demonstrate the intelligence, beauty, and spirituality of women and our intrinsic value.

This continues in the life and times of Christ and even to this very day. It has been my joy to see great men around the world recognize this for themselves. As such, they offer hope to women and become culture-shapers for entire communities.

In this environment, women are released to demonstrate the strength of their femininity, along with its beauty and grace.

So, back to our cab driver . . . What would you say?

I look forward to hearing from you and sharing how one of my Indian women friends responded.

Prayer Update: January 19, 2010

2010-01-21T12:15:00.000-05:00

All is well in Delhi. For those who do not know Ila's suitcase found in Chennai very late Friday night after much frustration and gentle threats seasoned with grace. We arrived in Delhi safely and began our teaching today. Team working well together and all are in good spirits and good health. Please pray for the team and our 30 women for open hearts and minds toward the health principles we are presenting with a biblical basis. Weather very cold but hotel comfy and warm. Kim should arrive tomorrow and w will write again soon.

The Delhi team,
Ila, Lawren, Charleen, Lydia, Shikha, Mano and Vasanth

Prayer Update: January 15, 2010

2010-01-21T12:14:00.000-05:00

Our time here in Chennai is rapidly drawing to a close. Our team has experienced great joy as we learn more of the ways God is overturning poverty and aspects of injustice through our ministry partners. We concluded 3 days of fellowship together with prayer and communion late this afternoon. There were tears of sorrow from the hardships of life and ministry. Our women's gathering concluded with the song, "Lord, Make Me A Servant"

Tomorrow 2 members of our team fly to Delhi for the Health Training, and 3 of us proceed to Calcutta. Please pray for safety, effectiveness, and that we will have understanding hearts and open eyes to see the people of India as God sees them!

Ila is still searching for her suitcase. Pray that she can find it before leaving tomorrow.

Thank you for also remembering our team in Cambodia and the plans being made for the Sudan.
Please pray Psalm 32:8 for them.

Finally, please pray for our families while we are away. Psalm 121

Thank you!

Kim for the PI Women Team

Prayer Update: January 12, 2010

2010-01-21T12:07:00.000-05:00

Thank you for your prayers! The entire time has now arrived safely in India with Ila, Cynthia + Lawren arriving today after a 9 hour delay in London. In spite of this, they spent the afternoon with our widows ministry and at the Dorcas house here in Chennai. Meanwhile, Anita and Kim traveled from Bangalore on a 6+ hour train trip--all uniting in Chennai for our 3 day Summit with partners from South Asia.

As you might imagine, everyone is in need of a good night's rest. Please pray for our rest and for our hearts to unite in worship and service for the sake of the Gospel as we learn, serve, and grow together so that Christ's love can be more fully known!

With Love and Prayer,
Kim

Remember

2009-11-14T00:08:00.001-05:00

God often calls us to remember . . .

Remember our sins, and His unfailing mercy (Psalm 103:1-4)

Remember His faithfulness to hear and answer prayer (Eph. 3:20-21)

Remember . . . He is coming again and while we are here, we hold forth the word of Life (Phil. 2:16)

This morning, I need to remember all of this and more. I need to remember His unfailing love and power. I need to remember and even somehow, rest in His ability to intervene and transform the hellish situations of this world (my world) into what is just and good. If I do not remember, I will perish in my heartache as I watch the afflictions of this world hurled in both seen and unseen ways at the vulnerable.

This morning, as I take time to think, pray and meditate on His goodness and grace, one of our ministry partners from Cambodia sends this word to me:
“First, I thank my god through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world. For God whom I serve in my spirit in the preaching of the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how unceasingly I make mention of you . . .” Romans 1:8-9

She, by God’s gracious goodness, is remembering me, even me, in prayer . . . unceasing prayer. When my life seems at one of the darkest hours ever, this sweet word of comfort and courage and hope makes it way to me from across the ocean, the mountains, the plains that stand between SE Asia and USA.

How great is our God that He has called her to pray, and given her a faithful heart to do so. He has not forgotten. He is actively at work in the darkness to bring life, and light, that is desperately needed.
He remembers, and cannot forget. For we are engraved on the palms of His Hands!

“Can a woman forget her nursing child, and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed (engraved) you on the palms of My hands; your walls are continually before Me.” Isaiah 49:15-16

Thank you, Lord, for your tireless and unceasing care and concern. You love like no other can. You love with an undying love and your care brings healing and salvation; sweet deliverances that we long for. I worship you, my Lord and I choose to trust in You. May my life radiate the obedience of faith, that is well-pleasing in Your sight, and effectual in bringing your Kingdom to all who will receive.
Amen.

I needed to hear your voice...

2009-10-27T11:14:00.001-04:00

Early yesterday morning, my phone rang. “Hello, sister!” the eager voice spoke from the receiver. I immediately recognized the voice of Veronika, our faithful partner in the Sudan. “Hello, Veronika! How are you?” “I am fine in the Lord. I miss you! I needed to hear your voice.”

What can I tell you about Veronika? She is more than fine in the Lord. She loves the Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. She loves her husband and their 6 children. Together, they continue to fight the good fight against persecution and passivity from without and within. Believers in the Sudan sometimes grow weary of the political, religious regime of the majority religion, forcing its way from north to south.

Yet, they stand firm, embracing their faith and making the most of every opportunity to demonstrate the love God so freely gives in His Son, our Savior.

Veronika went on to share her prayer concerns for her Mother’s health, and the women’s ministry training engaged in providing HIV-AIDS prevention to women in various parts of Sudan. Her effervescent joy was both contagious and revitalizing. I nearly forgot about my broken right arm, as I was taken up into the love and beauty of partnering with Veronika and the women of the Sudan. We exchanged prayer requests and expressed an expectancy that our God will do more than we can even know to ask!

Veronika said that she needed to hear my voice . . . truth be known—I was the one who needed to hear hers.

Won’t you join me in partnering with the women of Sudan through prayer? Believe it or not, our phone conversation lasted for 5 minutes. How about spending 5 minutes in prayer for Veronika and the women she serves right now?

Dear Lord,

Forgive my complacency and self-pity this day. Replace it with your lovingkindness and tender mercy. Make your Presence known to and through our partners’ women’s ministry team in Sudan, “The Women of the Good News”. Equip them with everything good to know and do your will, especially their ministry to widows and other women vulnerable to HIV-AIDS. Protect them as they travel to Darfur and other regions in Sudan. Make their paths straight and produce much fruit through their courageous efforts.

Thank you Lord, for the love and beauty of partnership, one of your most precious gifts!

Amen.

Esther from Vietnam is Coming Soon!

2009-10-23T13:23:00.002-04:00

We would love for you to have the opportunity to see Esther share her heart and the ministry she is doing in Vietname. She has a few speaking engagements during her stay here in Florida. The following are the list of events that she will be speaking at:

Wednesday, October 28, 2009 6pm -7:30
Memorial Presbyterian Church
Wednesday Night Family Style Dinner followed by Esther and Kim both speaking
Dinner is $7 per person, $20 cap per family.
For more information, contact Drew Hanley at 832-3631, ext. 302

Sunday, November 1, 2009 11 am
Church in the Gardens
Luncheon to follow
Contact Kristin for more information at 561- 723-2482

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 7-9pm
Community Foundation Building
Evening in the Courtyard
Our main event while Esther is here!
Coffee and Dessert will be provided.
Unique Christmas and Hanukkah shopping opportunity

Update from Kim and Sherri in Turkey

2009-10-08T13:00:00.000-04:00

Turkey's history from the Byzantine to Ottoman empires until today, is both fascinating and heart-breaking. Istanbul boasts a population of 17 million, yet only 35 churches. The entire nation has only 110 known churches including small house groups. Yet those who follow Christ as Savior are courageously proclaiming the Gospel in spite of the past and current situation.

The role of women in the church is active and growing. According to one church leader, there is an awakening among women which he hopes will impact homes and communities. Typically, women are idle and haven't found many ways to contribute due to the social norms of both the culture and family. But this very weekend, the first women's conference will take place in Istanbul. Each woman has been encouraged to come and bring a friend who doesn't yet know or follow Christ. They will experience drama, worship, and other areas of interest to the women.

Will you please pray for this women's conference on Saturday, October 10th? And pray for the emerging women's ministry which is a sign of great hope for the church here in Turkey.

Finally, please pray for Sherri and Kim as they travel to Greece for the final leg of their trip. Here, they plan to visit biblical sites for further research on the Women in the Window Bible study and enjoy time with Kim's many family members living in Athens.

With Much Love and Appreciation,

Kim & Sherri

Middle East Ministry Trip: Update from Istanbul, Turkey

2009-10-06T11:31:00.001-04:00

So many faces pass us by as we walk through the streets of Istanbul. Faces of men, of women, of children. Local faces and international, too. Asian, African, European, and even some Americans. Each face has a story to tell . . .each face reflecting a heart that is looking, even searching for the love God so freely gives through His Son.

Thank you for praying for our continuing journey through the Middle East. We have been amazed by the open doors for ministry with women. While it's not surprising to see women wholeheartedly serving our Savior, it is a delight to see their ministry honored and included by the leaders of each ministry we call our partners!

Tomorrow brings a fresh opportunity for Partners International Women as we connect with the women leaders serving here in Istanbul, Turkey. The church is scattered, and struggles against the culture and dominating religion of this region. Yet, they are vibrant in their faith and fervent in their service. We fully anticipate that we will be encouraged and challenged by their stories and practical ways they bring Christ to this culture.

Please pray for safety in traveling to their location, for ease in communication, and for a heart connection that continues throughout our visit and far into the future.

As you pray for us, you are serving as a vital part of this Middle East team, and we are so grateful. Along with you, we pray that our faces will reflect His heart for all people.

"As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects man." Proverbs 17:19

Update from Israel and Prayer Requests

2009-10-02T14:20:00.001-04:00

Bethlehem, the birthplace of our Lord Jesus Christ, is home to the Bethlehem Bible College which is providing Christian liberal arts education for Muslim background believers. Many of these students are following God's call to serve among their own people groups. Our visit with them was both refreshing and energizing to renew our call in Christ's service and to further commitment to study. Our visit to Israel was beautifully rounded off by attending a home group in the new city of believers who have seen the Lord in dreams and visions.

Recently, they watched their prayers answered right before their eyes as a family was united in Christ's truth and love.Tomorrow (Saturday), we meet with 20 women in Madaba, near Mount Nebo.

Pray for God's blessing on our time together and for Kim as she speaks to their hearts of God's infinite love for women, including each of them!Finally, please continue to pray for safe travels and all matters as we travel to Turkey early Sunday morning!!

Love in Christ, Sherri + Kim

Update from Israel

2009-10-01T12:54:00.001-04:00

If given an opportunity to bring peace to the Middle East, where would you start?

Our partners have embraced their strategic role by building bridges rather than taking sides. Their ministry of reconciliation is fulfilling Christ's purpose of tearing down the dividing wall of hostility between Jews and Palestinians, replacing it with the love and power of Christ Jesus. Women are a vital component in this ministry with more than 120 women already trained to bring about community transformation. We are eager to see how a partnership with Partners Women can serve these women.Another ministry based in Jerusalem looks for keen opportunities to care for both young and old alike. They ask prayer that they find favor to develop a media library including 40 DVD's with a Christian message to 200 schools in Israel.

From the Wailing Wall to the Garden of Gethsemane, people flock to Israel in search of truth. Please join us in prayer that they will have eyes to see the One who came to demonstrate His unfailing love for us all.

Isaiah 49:15-16 "engraved on the palms of His hands . . ." Please pray for the work among women in the Middle East who are often forgotten in human terms but not in God's sight.

With prayer and appreciation,
Kim and Sherri from Israel

Middle East Ministry Trip Update #1

2009-09-29T11:34:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, Kim & Sherri made it safely to Jordan. They are having an amazing time... Already, they have had the opportunity to hear an Egyptian Pastor preach on Psalms 23, participate in praise in worship in Arabic, and meet with some local women leaders.

Kim says she already hears and sees God speaking and fulfilling His word for the ministry from 2 Chronicles 32:7-8, "Be of Courage," as she connects with the women in the area who are dealing with abusive and unfaithful marriages. Please, pray for these women and for Kim & Sherri as they develop these partnership opportunities.

One specific partnership opportunity seems very promising. A local woman servant leader is working with domestic issues of factory workers who daily experience human rights abuse. This servant leader has been working with thousands of prisoners as well for over a decade.

Today, they arrived safely in Israel after a 7 hour delay on the border crossing. They are presently on their way into the city of Jerusalem. Pray for a safe and purposeful day.

Women Prison Ministry

2009-09-21T15:56:00.002-04:00

Can you imagine a more hopeless place than prison?

This was the question God put on the heart of one young Middle Eastern woman twelve years ago. That Christmas she decided something had to be done, so she asked local authorities for permission to visit female inmates in a local prison. Wary of the strong influence of Islam in her country, at first she met with just the prisoners of Christian background, encouraging them and distributing basic necessities. But soon, with special grace from the Lord and the permission of the Public Security Department, the door was opened to visit prisoners of all backgrounds. The prisoners come from all over the world.
A number of them are trafficked women from the Philippines and Sri Lanka who were arrested in the Middle East for lack of proper papers or other minor infractions. Some come to the Middle East to work as maids, but flee when they are beaten, taken advantage of, or dismissed without cause. With no money, no local connections, and often little understanding of the local language or legal system, they don't have much hope of being released. Others are there because they are admittedly guilty of crimes. But they all have one thing in common - they need the hope of Jesus.Over the years, this ministry has distributed care packages to thousands of prisoners in the name of Jesus.
The team visits the prisoners during Christmas and special holidays to share about Christ, and also contacts embassies on behalf of the prisoners, assists prisoners' families with various needs, and helps released prisoners return home. Partners is helping the team distribute care packages that include items such as shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrush, soap, towels, sweets, a Christian book, and more. One prisoner sent this letter to thank the special someone who gave the care package she received. She said,

"You don't know me, but I have known you very well, and I love you because you gave me hope in a world full of darkness. After struggling in prison for many days, I was surprised when I received this gift. When I read what was written on the towel I believed it is true that, 'Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.' I have hope again in myself and in my spirit."

Today, the team has access to 12 prisons with more than 6,500 prisoners.

Ramadan Prayer Guide: Week 2

2009-09-08T13:38:00.000-04:00

Day 8
FASTING
The diabetes rate in this country is very high. People with diabetes need to carefully regulate their blood sugar levels—a process rendered impossible by the fasting during Ramadan. Doctors beg people not to fast, and the Qur’an even permits exemptions on account of medical difficulties. Yet people continue to fast at the risk of their lives in order to fulfill the legalistic requirements. Most believe it's worth the risk. Emergency rooms packed with people suffering from wildly fluctuating blood sugar levels would argue otherwise.
Kids as well suffer from extreme legalism. Many are pushed into fasting well before the required age as a sign of devotion. In extreme cases, newborns are deprived of food during the daytime because of the belief that the religious code applies even to them. Another motivation is that every day of fasting that is missed must be made up throughout the course of the year, leading many to either persevere through the month or try to work ahead to prepare for the it. In either case, the strain on both mother and baby can be harsh.
God, this kind of fasting isn't what you desire. Fasting like this will not have their voices be heard. And many are putting their lives on the line to try to meet a false requirement. Lord, break this people of the need to please society and open their eyes to the freedom that is only found in you.

“Is this not the fast that I choose to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free and to break every yoke”? Isaiah 58:6

Day 9
EQUIPPING THE CHURCH
A national believer observed his young son beginning to pray in the manner of a Muslim. The children are taught the Islamic rituals as part of the national school curriculum. The believer stopped his son, but then commented with a touch of discomfort on the boy’s habit and how his response had to be limited. “My son sees me reading the Bible, he sees me pray,” he said. “Once he is old enough to be able to understand and able to be trusted with it, I will teach him my faith.”
There has been no established method for the believers to pass on their faith to their children. How do they participate in church? Can a Sunday-school-style class be used? How much information can they be trusted with? How far can you allow the indoctrination of Islam? These issues have yet to be resolved. And every year strengthens the culture's grips on the lives of the children.
Lord, when you were here on earth, you took special care of the children. And now we ask you to look after the children in this country. They are pulled and tugged by the lies of the world and need you to look after them. Please, guard their hearts and their minds in you.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he shall not depart from it,” Prov. 22:6

Day 10
KEY RELATIONSHIPS
The clash of culture is easy to see just by observing people walking down the street. A girl in full Muslim covering will walk side-by-side with another dressed in the latest European fashion. A stroll through the market is as likely to be accompanied by “Hotel California” as traditional Arabic music. As the region continues to modernize, the influence from the west continues to grow. Foreign influence has forced many out of homes their families have lived in for generations.
At the same time a fundamentalist movement has also started to grow. The number of covered women has grown and the number of men growing full Muslim beards has also increased. There's a sense of people rededicating themselves to Islam in an attempt to preserve their culture, among them people who might choose violence in order to preserve it.
Lord, when people are polarized, there is stress. And that stress can lead to breaking. So we ask that you would use this turning point in this nation's history. They need to be seeking the truth. And only you can use it to set them free.

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36

Day 11
MINORITY FAITH
A national believer was working in a garden. The local man served the believer breakfast, and, as he ate, the believer looked in the window and saw a cross hanging on the wall. After he finished his work, the believer commented that “the Lord helped me to do the work.” Moments later, the two men recognized each other as believers. When he asked how he knew, the gardener pointed to the cross. The other believer said, “Many people have come through my house but none of them have understood.”
The gardener also commented that there are many believers, but there is no way to recognize them. Society prevents people from openly identifying people as believers, which leads to a sense of isolation. Many nationals comment how difficult it is “to be the only believer in the country.”
Father, we ask that you would surround the church with a great cloud of witnesses, that they would see and know that they are not alone. We ask that You would unite them in communities and in groups for the purpose of glorifying Your name and that through these groups, Your name would spread throughout the country.

“Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.” I Kings 19: 18

Day 12
PEOPLE
Fatima believes that her main hope for the future lies in her education. She looks to success stories of other women who have been able to achieve professional prominence. Intelligent and curious, she consumes as many of the new ideas as possible. But she struggles to reconcile the ideas tossed around in the university settings with those of her traditional beliefs. She has, at times, worn the traditional conservative coverings, not out of any conviction but out of convenience—men are much easier to deal with when dressed conservatively. While her exam scores were high, her family still had to pay someone to secure her spot at the university. That personal debt only adds to her motivation to succeed.
Fatima is pulled between wanting to please her parents by fulfilling their traditional expectations and pursuing her worldly ambitions. The gospel runs counter to both of those. Should she become a believer, she would face opposition from her family, the closure of the potential job market, and the loss of any serious or traditional marriage opportunities.
Lord, this generation values today's things over Your ways. And while many look at worldly knowledge as a path out, too often it's just another layer of traps that keeps them from You. And we ask that You break through those walls to make them see Your truth.

“But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.” Philippians 3:7-8

Day 13
STRONGHOLDS
Tradition seeps into all parts of life, including Islam. For instance, there are graves of Muslim saints that attract worshipers. Many of those who go to those sites are seeking solutions to problems, whether physical, spiritual, or relational. They will give sacrifices of money or animals to try to win spiritual favor over the issues. Each issue has specific saints and rituals. Some even think that visiting a series of tombs can even substitute for the Hajj for those who are unable to travel to Mecca. While these practices are frowned upon by Islam, society continues to indulge in them.
The fear of the spiritual realm has a bigger impact on daily life than any of the formal religious teachings. Even the most mundane actions carry spiritual ramifications. For example, some nationals will not pour hot water down a drain out of fear of offending or injuring the spirits that may live there. They believe that spiritual blessing is carried by amulets and objects, often using the symbol of the hand in order to ward off bad luck. It is seen in signs, jewelry and even some advertising campaigns.
There is no power in the world greater than you, O Lord, no ancient tradition or folk spirit worship that can compete with the power in the name of Jesus. And we ask that your name would be glorified in this country and among these people. Help them to turn from the darkness to your light.

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” I John 4:4

Day 14
THINGS YOU DON”T TALK ABOUT
There are many orphanages throughout the country. In many, however, by age five, the vast majority of the orphans left are boys. Almost all of the girls will have been adopted away to serve as maids and house servants in the homes of wealthy families. This practice crosses over to all levels of society. The value of a young daughter is high enough that families in villages will sell their daughters in exchange for money. Laws of mandatory education are often flaunted, and many suffer from physical and sexual abuse in these houses. 72 percent are under the age of 12. And not all of these are adoptions that remain in the country. Many are exported back to other countries in North Africa.
There have been some developments in the women's rights movement in North Africa. Recent changes have increased rights in, among other situations, divorce proceedings. However, the general populace has been slow to adapt, as any departure from tradition requires much more time and motivation to change. That change has been even slower as the distance from the urban settings increases.
Lord, you said that true religion was to look after widows and orphans in their distress. Many are in distress here; there are a lot of kids who need fathers, a lot of kids who need advocates. They need you. So we're asking for change in their lives. We're asking for you to set them free, both spiritually and physically.

"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 26:40

Ramadan Prayer Guide-Week 1

2009-08-27T13:01:00.002-04:00

AGE
As important to Muslims as the Hajj is, it's also one of the more dangerous events they will attend. Travelling to Mecca has been one of the five pillars of Islam for more than 1,000 years, and it hasn't scaled well with the growth of the religion. Hundreds of people are trampled every year by pilgrims attempting to atone for their sins—many of these elderly, looking to store up bonus points before they die. Dying on the Hajj is viewed as a sign of great devotion, a fact which sometimes prevents proper safety standards from being implemented. The pilgrimage is supposed to absolve one of past sins; many delay until late in life in order to have less time afterward to sin and therefore to have to pay off those sins.

The same concept leads many to dedicate huge sums of money into the construction of mosques. While it is already difficult to travel more than a few blocks without discovering a mosque, many continue to be built in order to earn points before God. While not a part of orthodox doctrine, common belief dictates that building a mosque will win favor with God. It plays into the mindset of being able to purchase a place in heaven.

Lord, these people are still trying to build their way to heaven. The tower of Babel has become a road to Mecca, and neither leads to you. They need you to open their eyes so that they can see the way that you've prepared, the price that you've paid, and the willingness you had to suffer for us.

“I go now to prepare a place for you. And if I go prepare a place, I will come back again, that where I am there you may be also.” John 14:2

Day2
EQUIPPING THE CHURCH
A North African proverb says that sometimes when the mother stork feeds her babies, she pokes them in the eye. There are people who have a lot of resources and desire to help that sometimes do more harm than good. In the North African church, money is often one of those issues.
Sometimes it seems that for one to be a leader in the church means that he receives a sponsorship from outside sources and that he travels outside the country to conferences and travels around the country visiting other groups.
True discernment is difficult when opportunities are available that require greater resources. One group stated their commitment to not let resources come to control them by saying that training would first be located inside the local fellowship, and, when necessary, in the city, and, on occasion, in a central gathering in the country. This group would not even consider leaving the country, so that they would remain locally reproducible, without relying on foreigners for resources. Groups with such a clarity of vision can be hard to find, and harder to replicate. Many mature, charismatic leaders are snatched up by outside agencies. For some, this is the definition of success, that an outside agency would want them to be their representative.
Father, we ask today for you to raise up the leaders in this country. Help them to focus on their own people, and provide for their needs without foreign influence. Let us know how we can assist without creating dependence.

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27

Day 3
KEY RELATIONSHIPS
The girl seemingly had her future lined up. She had worked hard to get through university and was now seeking every opportunity to continue her studies in the States. A Christian worker was helping her sift through the possibilities. After a phone call one afternoon, everything changed. A guy had made an offer of marriage to her family, and the girl was forsaking everything she had valued to become his wife. A few months later, having seemingly forgotten about her career, she settled into the role as housewife, virtually cut off from the outside world.
Arranged marriages are still the preferred way for many new families to start. These marriages often leave the girl vulnerable and powerless to change her circumstances. In situations where a believer is involved, the pressure to conform can be incredibly high, especially when the wife is the follower of Christ. In Islam, the husband’s religion takes precedence over the woman’s, as if the wife has no value as an individual.
Father, you have called the women here to be your daughters. You have called them beloved, but they have not heard it. The tradition tells them they have no value. Break through those lies to let them find your truth.

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Isaiah 30:18

Day 4
MINORITY FAITH
A group of believers were attending an event together, despite some personal issues between them that really strained some of the relationships within the group. During the event, the authorities interrupted, arresting the group and throwing them in jail. Through the process of imprisonment, much of the distrust and disharmony were resolved, and, since this time, several people have become believers.
Becoming a Christian means that you have to surrender the idea that your performance has any bearing on your salvation. Some believers have remained trapped by the desire not to offend their traditional values by still conforming to the ways of Islam while others have sought to flaunt their freedom in Christ in immature and inappropriate ways. Relationships in the community of believers can be difficult, barred by mistrust and a judgmental spirit that stems from the legalism engrained in the Muslim culture. Deception and betrayal underlie all parts of society in this culture and creep in to the community life as well.
Lord, the world doesn’t get the change you make in their lives. The majority here still think that local believers can be bought, bullied, or beaten into submission. We ask for the strength for the community to stand up, that as they hold fast to your name, many more would be drawn to it. We ask that in all challenges and hardships, your name alone would be glorified.

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”Revelation 12:11

Day 5
PEOPLE
Ahmed was born in the countryside but moved to the city in search of a better life. He remembers the days when his country was a colony under a European power but has watched all the changes that have come since then. The country today is hardly recognizable as the one in which he grew up. He doesn't read but can recognize and quote large portions of the Qur’an, from the repetition pounded into him as a child. As a younger man, he worked in construction; now that youth and strength have given out on him, he is relying on his kids to take care of him.
Ahmed is concerned about his family, how they will continue to survive or thrive in today's world. He hears the pull of eternity. He knows that he doesn't have long left on the earth. While he has memorized the Qur’an, he can understand little of it, due to its formal and complicated Arabic. Ahmed is dependent on the interpretations of others. The only way he will hear the good news is by the intentional witness of someone close to him, as he has no ability to comprehend the written translations of the Bible.
Lord, there are many out there just like Ahmed. They have lived their lives as best as they can with no opportunity to know the truth. We ask that you would bring the truth to them in a way they can understand.

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Romans 10:14-15

Day 6
STRONGHOLDS
A woman has lost several relatives (2 grandchildren, her mother, her brother) this past year. She is questioning what happens after one dies. This woman believes that children who die will pray for their parents to enter paradise. Those who believe they can work their way, pray their way into eternal life are mistaken. Only belief in Jesus will allow anyone to enter into heaven. There are approximately 300 people who die in North Africa each day…who die without knowledge of Christ.
Jesus, we praise you for being our advocate, the one who speaks to God on our behalf. And the people here need that advocate. There is no one to speak for them when they die. No children, no works, nothing. So we’re asking you to step in and be that change for them. Let them believe in you and pass from death to life.

"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.—John 5:24

Day 7
THINGS YOU DON”T TALK ABOUT
For years, we have prayed that it would be common knowledge that one could be a good citizen of this country and be a Christian at the same time. Recently, a newspaper article declared that anyone could choose their own religious path – Christian, Jew, and Muslim – without repercussions. Thank God along with us that it is becoming common knowledge that a citizen of this country can choose their own way. Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father but by me”.
Media handling of national believers is never unbiased; whatever information is presented to society is heavily distorted in order to enhance the Muslim point of view and sensationalize the situation of the people who have abandoned that system of belief. Yet in one report over a believer who was arrested, the media gave an accurate summary of his beliefs in the newspaper article. So even in the face of distortions, God's light can still shine brightly.
Lord, in the midst of so much noise, distortion, and lies, we ask for you to make your light shine bright to the people. Draw these people to you that they would be able to see you and believe.

“The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.” John 1:5

Sparkling Gold in East Asia

2009-08-10T15:30:00.002-04:00

A word from Kim Kerr, Director of Partners International Women...
Do you think God has a sense of humor? I do! Why else would He call our feet beautiful?Yep, that’s right. In Isaiah 52:7 which is quoted by Paul in Romans 10:15 we find these words,

“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”

The truth is that our feet become beautiful only when they are fulfilling their God-given purpose. Such is the story of a young East Asian woman named, Debra, whose feet are clad with a pair of sparkling gold tennis shoes, and, what is more, they are set on the path of preaching the Good News.

The first thing you notice about Debra is her beautiful smile. The second is her sparkling gold tennis shoes. You would never guess that Debra comes from a family that has a farm in rural northeastern China. She grew up taking care of the family’s cows on their farm perched on a beautiful mountainside. In her teen years, Debra felt a calling to reach out to others to share her faith in Christ. She learned of a Bible school in a city several hours by bus from her home and after much prayer decided to leave her family and home to attend the two-year training (quite a sacrifice in this family-focused culture).

In 2008 Debra finished her Bible school training (led by our ministry partner Cana Fellowship) and chose to stay and work with the ministry. Today she continues to live in the city and is involved in campus outreach, working with university students. She also serves at a Christian coffee shop located near several campuses where music nights and English clubs are offered to encourage fellowship with students.

Her feet are indeed beautiful as she carries the Good News of Jesus to the next generation!

Praise Update:
Last month we prayed for women in the Middle East and some of their outstanding ministries, including an outreach to women and children in prison. God has opened the door for a Partners International Women’s ministry trip to the Middle East in the coming months. Please pray for the finalization of all plans and for God’s abundant provision and blessing on the ministries and trip.

The summer is full of Global Learning Exchange teams traveling and serving with our partners in East Asia in a variety of capacities, including English as a second language. Please pray for their efforts to be just what our East Asian partners truly need and to bear much lasting fruit.

Prayer Requests:
Pray for Debra and other young ministry workers as they continue to grow in their faith and experience in serving the Lord among Chinese youth and college students, a vital ministry.
Provision and protection for all of our ministry partners serving in East Asia, specifically women leaders serving in many and varied capacities.

Wisdom and discernment as we strategize with new initiatives and ongoing ministries uniquely led by women for women and their children in East Asia. In the aftermath of last year’s earthquake, many women have been marginalized and traumatized as their only child was killed, and subsequent value to the family diminished. Because of the One-Child Policy, many will not be able to bear another child so their husbands have decided to secure another wife.

Thank you for your care, partnership, and prayers for women in East Asia and around the world.

Because of You...

2009-06-22T16:09:00.009-04:00

Thank YOU for your continued faithful partnership with PI Women resulting in:
950 women leaders trained from . . .
21 nations equipping women to extend this training within. . .
39 distinct partnerships in some of the hardest places of Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

West Africa

North Africa

Sudan
South East Asia

South Asia

Beauty for Ashes Banquet

2009-04-16T11:43:00.006-04:00

Mona Barham and Ruth Swing

Leslee Bennett, Volunteer Advocacy Coordinator

Kim Kerr, Director and Howard Amland, VP

Jessica Summers and Kim Kerr

Sondra McCarty, Faithful volunteer and Servant Leadership Team Member with Jessica Summers

PBA Student Volunteers

Dr. Stepp of Memorial Presbyterian Church

Banquet Team!

Christian Ramos

Student Volunteers

Slumdog Millionaire

2009-03-03T15:52:00.004-05:00

Have you seen the movie Slum Dog Millionaire yet? If not, I would recommend that you make a point to see it soon. If you have, your heart was undoubtedly stirred, and possibly broken, as was mine.
Jamal and Latika stole my heart as they somehow maintain a sense of personal worth and conscience. But, quite frankly, it was Salim’s story that made the most poignant reminder of the eternal impact of human trafficking and abject poverty on the souls of children. The movie isn’t perfect, but it’s great because it forces us to see, feel, care, and, for most everyone in the audience, cry!

This morning I read this passage from Exodus 2:24-25, shown here in the Amplified version, and I thought of Slum Dog Millionaire and the countless children its story represents:

And God heard their sighing and groaning and [earnestly] remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.
God saw the Israelites and took knowledge of them and concerned Himself about them [knowing all, understanding, remembering all].

Isn’t it just like our God . . . He hears, remembers, sees, and knows about our plight and the plight of desperate little orphans, street children, and girls (women, too) sold into slavery. And don’t you just love the fact that God concerns Himself about them? That is the part that rocks for me! When my life is falling apart, and my situation (or that of those I love) is spinning out of control, I need to know that God concerns Himself with us and our “out of control” lives.
Maybe your life is spinning out of control today. Pray, give it to the God who hears, sees, and knows . . . the One who concerns Himself with you.

Maybe your life is in perfect control (ha! I don’t know anyone like that, do you?) and this conversation doesn’t concern you. But one thing is clear—the care of women and children is the concern of anyone who names the name of Christ. We’d love to partner with you as we serve the least-served in Asia, Africa and beyond. For more information on how we serve women and children like Jamal, Salim and Latika, and their families, email us for a copy of our Women and Children’s proposal. Your donation, regardless of its size or frequency, is a reminder to needy women and children that our God hears, sees, knows and concerns Himself with them!

North Africa Pictures

2009-02-11T12:49:00.009-05:00

Our North Africa Team 2009

Women’s Vocational Training Project

Nursing students appreciate our visit and training

Women learn new skills, forge new relationships

The Mediterranean Sea, North Africa

Cultural contrasts of Islam and European secularization

Class of Handicapped Children

Handicap Basketball Team

Shooting hoops in cold, wet rain with brilliant spirits!

Ila Swick teaches young women health education

Small Business Training

The mosque, central to every North African community

Shopping in North Africa

St. Paul’s Bay, site of Paul’s shipwreck—Acts 27

Please pray with us for God to ”open hearts, open doors and open heaven” on behalf of the people of North Africa. Thank you for your faithful prayers!

Save the Date!

2009-01-15T13:13:00.004-05:00

Click on image to enlarge

An Evening in the Courtyard

2008-12-22T15:56:00.005-05:00

Wow, wow, wow !!! Our speaker was clear, concise, informative and humble. She shared life experiences with passion, and at no time did she detract from the importance of the Iraqi people in this world. Her talk was so enjoyable and I look forward to hearing more speakers like this in the future! Congratulations on a wonderful evening. I brought along two friends and now they are both more interested in Partners International Women!
-quote from Sharleen Stuart

Palm Beach Atlantic University students who lended a hand

Our very own Partners Women intern, Chrissy Gulden!
Bart and Mona Barham honoring our winners with "door prizes" from the Harvest of Hope Catalog.

Kim with our Heather Dorsey, a faithful Partners Women volunteer and friend!

Pictures from SE Asia

2008-11-13T17:30:00.007-05:00

Vietnamese women receive their hand towels with great gratitude!
More towels

Studying God’s word together in Vietnamese style

On the shores of the South China Sea

This hut is home for one of our Cambodian woman leaders. Average daily income is less than $1 which presents a dire situation for families with several children.
This cow is an example of one of our partner ministries projects that is reducing poverty as it demonstrates Christ’s love!

Weaving in Indonesia Women leaders from the villages of Indonesia, enthusiastically embrace God’s word

Carla Bowman, Wigg Noone and an outstanding leader from the Cambodian church

We had the privilege of worshipping here with our brothers and sisters of Cambodia

Children caring for children, a typical sight in Southeast Asia

Our SE Asia team on the banks of the Mekong River
Typical housing in SE Asian nations where the flood waters rise without warning
Cambodian women

SE Asia Team Arrived Home Safely!

2008-11-12T09:50:00.001-05:00

Thank you all for praying for the safety and re-entry of our SE Asia team, Kim Kerr, Sara Noone and Carla Bowman. We'll have updates and stories from their trip soon!

On to Indonesia...

2008-11-03T09:31:00.000-05:00

We continue to experience God's blessings so richly poured out on us, and pray that we may faithfully share the same with the sisters here in Asia -- Psalm 67! Of course, you must know that this is ONLY possible through your faithful prayers. Please continue in our final week of training and ministry here in Indonesia. It is a beautiful nation with beautiful people and we are experiencing His Presence through them.

A brief update from our most recent training in the V land of Mekong SE Asia:

38 women from distinct locations & people groups came together as one, many of them meeting for the first time. Although most were from cities like Saigon, some from Hanoi and obscure lands and tribes joined in. Their lives molded by His loving hands through the fires of persecution and their stories told through tears and laughter brought even greater depth to the teaching of the Bible outlining the lives of women from the Old Testament and the New. Our focus on Priscilla came to life as a woman beside her husband, although some serve as Priscillas with no Aquilas to care for them. Yet, Jesus cares for them.

We completed a training of trainers for both Bridges to Women and Women in the Window as a leadership development component. They embraced both teachings as tools from Christ Himself. They embraced one another as true servants of the heart . . . and they embraced us as their sisters of the Faith.

We will never be the same again!

Please continue in prayer for them, for us, and for the ministry connecting women across cultures and generations. Pray for their families and ours, and we are praying for you with deep gratitude.

Much Love in Jesus,

Wigg, Carla and Kim
Psalm 72:18-19!!!

2nd Update from SE Asia Team

2008-10-29T11:01:00.000-04:00

Dear prayer partners,

I often find great encouragement in knowing that I'm not the only one walking through a particular circumstance, don't you? Today, half way around the world from you, we still find this fact encouraging!

It's great to know that you are praying and sending words of encouragement our way via Jessica King. Thank you! We are most encouraged by the Lord's work here in Cambodia. The opportunity to gather with women leaders has yielded amazing fruit along with our connections with like-minded ministries who are serving among those often forgotten and often most oppressed--the women and the children. Our meetings with those involved in church planting, human trafficking, radio ministry and hands-on outreach to them have been nothing short of divine. We are treasuring every moment with the Cambodian people!

In fact . . . we must be doing such a great job God has provided a way for us to stay a bit longer. Just when we received our tickets (in the knick of time, I may add) we discovered that the Vietnamese government has issed the wrong date on our visas, required to enter the country. Good news--this was discovered at the airport in Cambodia--bad news--we will be one day late for the women's training. Good news--Carla Bowman has gone ahead (her visa had the correct date) along with Phil Arendt. Good news--Joel will go along with us tomorrow to be sure that we make it all the way to our final destination. Good news--Wigg Noone is such an amazing team player and I am not here in Cambodia facing this challenge alone. Good news--we hope to visit the embassy tomorrow morning and travel to Vietnam by early afternoon--which puts us at our women's training with Carla, Esther and the ladies by evening.

As you can see, there is far more good news than bad. And, somehow we just know that God's hand is in control and even through this new test we are trusting ourselves to His care, "casting all of our care upon Him for He cares for us." 1 Peter 5:7

However, we also remember that His word says, "be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about,.seeking whom he may devour" 1 Peter 5:8

Rather, we choose to stand on this Promise: "the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3

So, please join in prayer together for this phenomenal opportunity to minister to and with our Vietnamese sisters as we stand and having done all stand. Thank you for standing with us and these precious ones!

With Much Love,
Wigg & Kim (Cambodia)
Carla (Vietnam)

Update from SE Asia Team

2008-10-27T11:12:00.003-04:00

As many of you know, Kim Kerr, Carla Bowman and Sara Noone are traveling in SE Asia over the next couple weeks. They first arrived in Cambodia and then travel on to Vietnam and eventually Indonesia. Below is the first update I received on October 25th from them in Cambodia. I will continue to post their updates here as I receive them:

After 29 hours of travel, give or take an hour, we arrived safely in Phnom Penh and were delighted to receive the first of many, many blessings already--an air-conditioned room! God is with us and we are experiencing His favor every step of the way. Today we met with more than 40 Cambodian women, who primarily speak Khmer. Yet through faithful interpretation we shared a "Women in the Window" inductive study of Dorcas from Acts 9, and a devotional thought from 1 Peter 1:18-22. These women are so amazing and fervent in their faith. Regardless of their level of literacy they treasure God's word in their hearts.

For now, we do ask your continued fervent prayers on our behalf in every area (and our families) Pray for the safe delivery of our paper airplane tickets which I inadvertently left at home. They should be here Monday A.M. thanks to Jessica King and UPS Global Express. But this is Cambodia . . . so please pray!

We will also pray for you as we hold you in our hearts (Philippians 1:7) even as the Apostle Peter said in 1 Peter 1:22 " . . . see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently."

Until next time,

Partners Women team: Wigg, Carla, and Kim

Leaning

2008-10-14T12:36:00.003-04:00

The Lord spoke to me, like a firm grasp of the hand. Isaiah 8:11

Author: Amy Carmichael

Blessed be the Lord our God, who does-if we speak he honest truth-cause His word to come to us in just this way: like a strong hand reaching out for us to take hold of firmly, and to take hold of us.

Sometimes this firm grasp comes as He opens our understanding to a single word. His hand has grasped me, in recent days, as my understanding opens up to the word trust.

Trust, I have learned, means: to lean on, to place the weight of my confidence upon (Young's Analytical Concordance)...And after this discovery, I've found many verses in the Psalms that provide great comfort when translated in this way. For instance, "I have trusted in (leaned on, placed confidence in) your lovingkindness" Psalm 13:5

So I may say: That lovingkindness which has loved me with an everlasting love, which forgives and cleanses and will never tire of me-that lovingkindness, Lord, I lean on.

We know that this is not objectionable to the Lord, that He in fact welcomes it. As David sang: "The Lord's unfailing love surrounds the man who leans on him." Psalm 32:10.

Doesn't this tell us something about the love of God-and isn't it just like Him to let us know that He wants us to lean on, not only His lovingkindess, but on His very self? Consider these words, which will further open your understanding:

Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples whom Jesus loved. (John 13:23) Whoso leaneth on the Lord, happy is he. (Proverbs 16:20) He is indeed happy with us! Now see what happens when we lean on Him!:

Cause me to hear...for on thee do I lean. (Psalm 143:8)

It was when John was leaning that he heard the Lord's answer to the question that troubled others. And this wonderful promise, so often repeated:

What time I am afraid, I will lean on thee. (Psalm 56:3)

I will lean, and not be afraid. (Isaiah 12:2) Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace...because he leans on thee...Lean on the Lord forever: for the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength. (Isaiah 26:3, 4)

It is marvelous to me that God's Spirit led the writers of these words to the same special verb, to lean. By one simple word, He means to show us so clearly that it is never anything in us that accounts for the Lord's goodness to us. Everything we are given is all from Him!

The Lord is my strenght and my shield; my heart leans on him and I am helped. Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song will I praise him! Psalm 28:7

May the Lord of love make this word of His to be "Like a firm grasp of the hand" to you today.

What Keeps You From Your Home?

2008-09-16T17:23:00.002-04:00

You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7

Author: Amy Carmichael

I think distractions in prayer are often because we have let ourselves wander too far from the things that matter most. And so we slip into an easily interrupted, easily distracted frame of mind. We need to live more at home.

In him we live and move and have our being. Acts 17:28 This means, simply, God is our home.

Home of my heart, lest I forget
My redemption’s cost to Thee,
Let my earliest thought be set
Upon Thy Calvary.

Do you see what I mean? These words, which center my attention on what matters most, speak of something that cannot drop out of my day without great loss to me. I know without question that an earnest “look” at Calvary does more to help our life of prayer than we imagine:

So shall the sayings of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be pleasing continually before Thee, O Lord my helper and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14

Prayer:

My Father, something inward tells me I have been living scattered. Sometimes anxious. Restless. Distracted. Wandering inside.

I fix my eyes upon the cross now-upon the post and crossbeam which became my one bridge back to your side. And I lift my eyes beyond the cross, to the One who sits beside you-to Jesus, the Risen One! My Lord, my brother, with arms outstretched toward in welcome. Calling to me:

Come home. I come, Father, to hide myself in You.

Cut-A-Thon

2008-09-10T13:08:00.005-04:00

Gallery White Salon is hosting a Cut-a-Thon to benefit the Women of Sudan! Please join us as we raise mission support to send Dr. Cheryl Parker to Sudan on Thursday, October 23, 2008.

All the proceeds from Hair, Nail and Waxing services will be donated to Partners International Women’s February 2009 mission trip to help the women of Sudan!!

Please call for an appointment or just stop-in!
99 SE Mizner Blvd Ste 140
Boca Raton, Florida 33432
561-392-1550

“For nothing will be impossible with God!” Luke 1:37

Prayer Requests from Women Leaders in some of the Darkest Places!

2008-08-28T15:58:00.003-04:00

Each month we email the women leaders in a specific region and ask what ways we can lift them up in prayer. This month we received many of them from Asia. Some of these requests are extremely personal and confidential. The names and locational specifics of these women have been removed for security purposes, but we did want to share a few with you, so you too can be praying for these brave sisters!

1. Pray for the recent attack on Christians in Orissa. Many women had to flee into the thick forest on the mountains to avoid the attack.

2. Pray for the Women Empowerment and Development Groups Enterprises recently formed in ________ among very poor women. They are now learning to know the plan salvation and understanding the word of God.

3. Pray for God’s continual protection in my marriage – for even a deeper and better relationship with my husband, with better communication so that both of us can serve Him wholeheartedly for His glory alone.

4. Pray for my longing to have children. Pray for contentment in God and acceptance if He won’t give us children.

5. Praise the Lord the second operation for my leg went very well a couple of months ago (it was broken during a bad car accident few years ago).Pray that God continue to heal my leg so that I can walk again. Pray that I can still serve God in my limited capability to walk, in good spirit, and with a thankful heart.

6. I have a rare disease: the pores on my head closed up and my hair won’t grow. My head is itchy and painful, and when I have a headache it is so severe that sometimes I can’t bear it. I have been wearing a wig for a long time and thus I have very low self esteem when it comes to having a relationship with a man. Recently I decided to be honest with my disease and testified about it to my colleagues and friends.Pray that God would give me courage and patience to fight this disease and not to feel like giving up.Pray that I can glorify God through my “thorn” of this disease by praising Him and encouraging others when they have a hard life.

Running the Race

2008-08-28T12:39:00.006-04:00

Many, many people all around the world have watched the Olympics in Beijing this month. I join in the crowd of those who love to see the young athletes who have worked so hard for many years achieve their final goal of a gold, silver or bronze medal. In much the same way, God’s word tells us that we, as Christian servants, are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who are cheering us on in our “endurance race” called the Christian life.

I want you to know that we are cheering you on as you live a life of faith, endurance and service for our Lord. You are champions who may never know this side of heaven just how much your life is impacting those around you, including and especially women here in America! We “see” your life lived for the Lord, and as the apostle Paul told the church in Thessalonica,

“We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, knowing, brethren beloved by God, His choice of you.” 1 Thessalonians 1:3-4

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2

So let’s run forward together, with our eyes fixed on our precious, holy and wonderful Lord Jesus. Unlike the Olympian athletes, our victory is already won, for He has won the victory for us on the cross!

You're Invited...

2008-08-04T12:10:00.004-04:00

…to a night of education and inspiration!

Greater is He who is in you then he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

No one knows the greatness of our God like those who have personally experienced His overcoming grace and power! Our partners Imed and Elly, from Tunisia, North Africa (99% Muslim) have a strong testimony on behalf of God’s greatness and overwhelming victory in the most difficult of times.

You’re invited to join Partners International Women and partner ministry leaders from Tunisia, North Africa for an evening of inspiration and education. In addition to their work in the ministry, they have extensive experience with university students and public media in the Muslim world.

Don’t miss this powerful evening and a chance to hear how God is working through these leaders of Carthage Ministries in Tunisia, a society with a 98% Islam community and their personal testimony of how they came to know Jesus Christ while living in this Muslim nation.

Please feel free to bring anyone you think would be interested in hearing how God is working through Partners Women and Imed and Elly in one of the darkest corners of the world.
Volunteer opportunities for Partners Women will be presented by our servant leadership team.

When: Friday, August 22nd from 6:30-8:00p.m.
Where: Partners Int’l Women in the Community Foundation Building 700 S. Dixie Hwy. West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Please RSVP by emailing Jessica King at Jessicak@partnersintl.org!

A light supper and beverages will be served.

See you here with a friend or two or three (women and men are welcome)!

Punctuation!

2008-07-15T17:28:00.005-04:00

Webster’s dictionary tells us that punctuation marks are useful in clarifying and emphasizing the meaning of a sentence or paragraph. As I thought about this in reference to writing a story or an article or even a blog like this, I can’t help but ask the question, “what or who punctuates my life?”

In other words, what or who “punctuates” and adds meaning and clarity to my days, seasons and years?

The Apostle Paul’s life was punctuated by two distinct marks: God and people. I love the use of exclamation points (tells you something about me!) and I was delighted to see an exclamation point in Paul’s writing recently:

“But you (Paul speaking to Timothy) followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, persecutions and sufferings . . . what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord delivered me!” 2 Timothy 3:10-11 NASB

We can’t help but love Paul’s punctuation, can we? Clearly, his life is punctuated by purposeful relationships such as his mentoring father/son relationship with Timothy, and with the everpresent love and faith demonstrated in our Lord Jesus Christ. I only hope that Jesus is so clearly seen in me!

The ministry of Partners International Women is punctuated by truly beautiful and purposeful people like you. We would love to hear from you and learn how this ministry is a help to you as you, too, endeavor to life a life of purpose, faith and love . . . like the Apostle Paul. Please let us know how we can serve you in your journey towards living a Christ-punctuated life.

His and Yours!
Kim
The pictures shown were taken at our recent Volunteer "Meet and Greet" event where potential volunteers (beautiful and purposeful people) came to hear the mission of Partners Women and get acquainted with the staff and Servant Leadership Team. It was a great night!!! :)

Independence Day

2008-07-03T14:14:00.010-04:00

America will celebrate her 232nd birthday this month, on a day commonly and historically known as “Independence Day”.

We Americans pride ourselves on being independent and sing songs about freedom and pride and the like. Perhaps we need to take a fresh approach to our birthday parties. Perhaps humility would gain us far more freedom, and even joy, in the long run.

Don’t get me wrong, I am a BIG fan of America! I love my country, and love the 4th of July along with all of its festivities (including hot dogs and watermelon)! No, I’m not bashing the wonderful nation of the United States of America, rather I’m evaluating our values or the lack thereof. What I’m most concerned about as I write this blog, is not where we have come from, but where we are heading . . .

Our forefathers and mothers were men and women of faith, pioneers in every sense of the word.
We have become consumers, pleasure-seekers in every possible aspect of our lives

Our forefathers and mothers were not afraid to stand for what is true and right
We have lost our bearings and don’t even seem to know the difference between right and wrong (consider a recent poll taken by the Pew Forum for Religion for example: http://www.pewforum.org/)

Our forefathers and mothers understood that independence was earned by dependence on God, and resulted in interdependence and responsibility for one another.
We almost worship personal independence and have become isolated and lonely as a result.

How about you? How do the blessings of independence within America create within you a desire to care for and speak up on behalf of others? Especially women around the world who have no voice of their own? We want to hear from you on this topic, so please feel free to leave your comments!
Also, take just a minute or two and and vote in the poll below.

Other websites of interest : http://www.globalrichlist.com/ or http://www.reviveourhearts.com/

Welcome!

2008-06-09T16:57:00.014-04:00

. . . I will also have compassion on her who had not obtained compassion, and I will say to those who were not My people, You are My people! And they will say, You are my God!” Hosea 2:23 (check out Paul’s apt use of this passage in his letter to the Romans, Ch.9, verses 23 to 26).

Greetings and welcome to our Partners International Women blog. We, at Partners Women, are quite passionate about connecting women across cultures and generations so that the power, love and light of Christ may be fully expressed in the darkest corners of the world.

We would like to extend an invitation to you to join this global connection. It is our heart’s desire to welcome you, as we, too, have been welcomed by the unabashed unconditional love of Jesus Himself. Jesus welcomes us as His partners in the Gospel ministry and invites us to enter a place of intimate exchange of thoughts, ideas, and shared responsibility before our Father in heaven.

As we begin, I’d like to invite you to think about the word compassion along with me. What does compassion really mean in times like these? We do have the economy to think about, right?! How much can we truly extend compassion to those we don’t even know . . . yet?

Jesus was often moved with compassion. Compassion moved Him to make decisions that focused on the needs of others. Compassion moved Him to speak when others were painfully silent. Compassion moved Him to weep. And, compassion moved Him to empower those who had no power of their own, including and especially women.

He empowered a Canaanite woman as He stated that her faith was great—greater than any in Israel. He empowered Mary as He defended her right to listen and learn in a manner that was contradictory to her culture. He empowered the woman taken in adultery from both social shame and spiritual separation as He gently spoke these words, “neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more.” (John 8:1-11)

How has He empowered you by extending compassion to or through you? What means of compassion ignite a fire to move your soul, and alter your life, to extend His compassion to women around the world? We want to hear from YOU, as we connect women across cultures and generations!

In the Strong and Compassionate Name of our Savior,
Kim

P.S. We’ve included a poll below we’d like you to take part in. If you have been shown compassion and remember it, please indicate so by telling us how recent it was. Also, we welcome you to leave any and all comments you may have! We would love to hear from you!