Encountering God: In 1820, at just 16 years of age, Richard Fuller entered Harvard University, graduated four years later, studied law and was admitted to the bar where he quickly rose to eminence as a lawyer. One day Fuller received a visitation from God that was so powerful he abandoned law and for the rest of his life devoted himself to Christian ministry, becoming one of the most inspiring teachers of the 19thcentury. Fuller authored dozens of pamphlets and tracts including the one below on dealing with life at its toughest.
“In fierce storms,” said an old seaman, “we must do one thing; there is only one way: we must put the ship in a certain position and keep her there.” This, Christian, is what you must do.
Sometimes, like Paul, you can see neither sun nor stars, and no small tempest lies on you; and then you can do but one thing; there is only one way. Reason cannot help you; past experiences give you no light. Even prayer fetches no consolation. Only a single course is left. You must put your soul in one position and keep it there.
You must stay upon the Lord; and come what may–winds, waves, cross-seas, thunder, lightning, frowning rocks, roaring breakers–no matter what, you must lash yourself to the helm, and hold fast your confidence in God’s faithfulness, His covenant engagement, His everlasting love in Christ Jesus.
Prayer Needs This Week
- Pray for the salvation of Gavin, visiting Laguna on a trip from New Zealand, who came to the front door of the church on Thursday and asked, “What does EV Free mean?” He said he was seeking spiritual truth. We chatted and he hopefully left thinking of Christ.
- Pray for the family and friends of Professor William Klug, shot and killed at UCLA last week. A graduate of Westmont, he was a solid Christian, had a wife and two young children, and was beloved by all who knew him.
- Hanieh – college-age Persian young lady and former Muslim who prayed to receive Christ last Sunday after the first service. Pray for an authentic and real relationship with Christ, growing to become a disciple.
- Ruth Wiley, in her 50’s with three children, dying of cancer. Pray for a divine turnaround.
- Kaori – undergoing an unexpected biopsy; pray there is no cancer
- Kylie – victory over addiction and various health issues
- Pray for those with broken hearts, who feel like a failure and are greatly burdened
From Skip Simpson, a friend from years ago, who now lives in Richmond Virginia: “Please let your members know that people are praying for them whom they have never met. I hope it will be encouraging. Recently, I began printing off the prayer needs from your newsletter to make sure I include them in my prayers.
Praying over some wonderful high school seniors last week, in both services, who were such a big part of Refuge and Impact over the years.
Just think this photo by Mary Hurlbut is so beautiful and perfect framed. I believe I shared it before with you but it deserves a second showing.
“May the God of hope so fill you with all joy and peace in believing that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound and be overflowing with hope.” Romans 15:13 Amplified Version
Finally, from George Bernard Shaw: “People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.”
Pastor Jay