Larry (prisoner)
Have You Heard?
Another Christmas season came and went, again, few realized the precious gift sent.  Conversations abound, seems the world has heard, yet many refuse the truths of God’s Word.  Concerned with selfishness, material and greed, the most important message they have failed to heed.
“There’s plenty of time, why not wait till next year?”  Yet again and again they refuse to hear!

A mission of Christ was to heal deaf ears, yet so many became deaf through the passing years.  Remember He was given to us that great day, can you hear what the angelic host had to say?  “The Savior has come, to God be the glory, repeat what you hear and tell the whole story!”
Don’t be afraid of what others might say, you must proclaim abroad without delay.
His coming again is yet closer still, spread the good news and fulfill His Will.

Patrick (prisoner)
I believe all the principles, steps and outlines mentioned in the PCL course are important for proper Christian living and growth.  The points most important to me are:
–Remembering that everything I have including myself belong to God.
–My anger is not worth my separation from God’s love.
–My pride has no value when compared to my salvation.
–It is of the utmost importance to have and maintain daily Bible reading and prayer time.
–If I put God first in my life and love my neighbor as myself, I can’t go wrong!
These are very easy to say but sometimes very hard to do.  Thank you very much for allowing me to take part in this wonderful Bible study course.  God Bless!

Joseph (prisoner)
I learned that we need to be ready for the return of Jesus by reading and studying the Bible.  It is very important to know what the Bible says so we don’t be deceived by the devil.  The only way to fight is by knowing what the Bible says.  We need to take Jesus Christ at His Word and trust in Him because this life we live now is very short compared to eternity.
I am sending my fellow inmates’ lessons with mine to save on postage.  I hope that is alright.  (It is.) Thank you and God bless.

Luis (Hispanic prisoner)
I am in prison for armed robbery.  I really did commit this offense, but I am profoundly repentant.  I hope that you will pray for me that God will forgive me. I want another opportunity to be free and not sin any more.  (Note from grader:  I wrote to him and gave him I John 1:9 because he asked Jesus to be his Savior and he is a Christian now!)

Frank (prisoner)
Praise God that on 11-18 I made my commitment to Jesus Christ and gave my life to Him.  I asked Him to forgive me and to be my Savior.  I used to be suicidal.  I did harm to myself.  With studying the Bible, taking the Bible courses, and receiving encouraging remarks from the graders, these all have helped me in my new walk in God.  Thank you all so much.  God bless you all always.
(He sent two poems that he wrote, one before he was saved and one from after.  I will include one here.)
Oh Lord Above
All my life; I’ve walked day and night
So alone, lost and confused, I turn to you
Asking, Oh Lord Above, please hear my cries
Because you are the only one who understands me

My entire life has been filled with loneliness and despair
Please stop the hopelessness and craziness in my mind
Because Oh Lord Above, You are the only one,
Who, but You, can cast out all my pain and sorrow

In my life all I have ever received is abuse and neglect
Please remove the scars of my afflictions, Oh Lord Above
You are the only one who can comfort me
Relieve me of my dark thoughts and doubts

Oh Lord Above, I turn to you, please heal my heart
From all the pain that has afflicted my soul
Bless me and caress me, because You, Oh Lord Above
Are the only one that can heal and mend me

Down on my knees, I lift my arms up to you, my hands held high
As I cry out to you, please hear my pleas, cause you, Oh Lord Above
Who does not lend a deaf ear, but hear all my requests and needs
Will hear my cries and answer because You truly care

Shed Your mercy and grace upon me, love me and deliver me
From all my iniquities, cause You, Oh Lord Above, can heal me
Oh Lord Above, I’ve been so blessed to receive Your gift of salvation
Now and forever I shall always praise your name, for You have saved me

Guide me and instruct me all the days of my life, give me words of wisdom
May I live each day through You and honor You by remembering You each day
You died on the cross to save us all from our sins, but have risen, I praise YOU!
Cause You, Oh Lord Above, are the only one who can teach me the truths.

Alton (prisoner)
Thank you for sharing God’s Word with me.  Thank you also for helping me with my walk for Jesus.  Jesus is Lord, AMEN!  Please say a prayer for the Source of Light teachers and their ministry.

Kristen (Child)
My mom and dad are split up and I am going through a divorce case.  I am living with my aunt.  Please pray for me and my mom and my dad.   They are not saved.

Kelsey (Child)
Please pray for me.  I keep getting candy from the pantry and pray for all the other sinners.  Thank you.

Cathy (adult)
This lesson, Anger, Reaction, and Resentment – Turning from Bitterness to Forgiveness, has opened my eyes a lot.  I have been hurt by people and I need to release these people in forgiving them.  It is very hard.  Please pray for me.  Thank you!

Ken (prisoner)
I learned about our coming King and how to be ready for Him.  I now know about what will happen to the believers and unbelievers when Jesus Christ returns to judge us all.  I learned what it is going to be like in the next life when the King comes and destroys His enemies.  I will get to see His face!  God Himself will dwell with me and there will be no harm, tears, death, sorrow, nor crying, no pain, and I don’t have to be afraid of anything.  I’ll be with my loved ones who believed in Christ and never say goodbye again.  I’ll want to see if there is anyone that I said or did anything to lead him to Christ.  How wonderful it would be to me.

Julio (Hispanic prisoner)
May the Spirit of God fill your hearts with peace and hope as well as His rich blessings during this time of year.  I ask forgiveness because I don’t have either silver or gold but these are my humble desires and prayers for all of you.  Thank you for your beautiful Christmas card and your kind thoughts.  I sent it to my family for Christmas.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Donyell (adult)
I am tithing to your Madison Discipleship School because your lessons have greatly blessed me and grown my spiritual life in the wisdom of the Lord.
Thank you for the generosity of the MDS.  Your ministry is a great ground to sow seeds into.  God bless you!

Joseph (prisoner)
I ‘ve been working through the 12 steps of AA.  Now I am at step #3. . . turning my will and my life over to the care of God.  Could you please pray for me to give more and more of my life to Jesus everyday.  God bless you and thank you.

Jerry (prisoner)
Dear friends and your families as well,  I pray that you are well and blessed and Happy Holidays to you and your families.  As for me I’m doing good and thanking the Lord for every day He’s given me.  He is so good to us all and we need to take a little of our time to tell Him thanks.  Also, I thank you all for your help and time.

Luis (Hispanic prisoner)
At this moment of my life I find myself in prison because of the consequences of alcohol, drugs and strife in my marriage.  Now I no longer desire to follow this life.  I am tired of the suffering that I have caused my wife and child.  I am seeking God because I know that only He can change me.  I am thankful for receiving this course because it is through it that I have received Jesus as my Savior and have begun to know Him.  I am very grateful to God.

Berteneta (adult)
I am truly progressing very well in my obedience to the Lord.  I am also being obedient to the authorities that I am under with the help of Jesus.  Thank you for your help in my life.

Marvin (prisoner)
If you have someone that can write me or I can write to help me along my walk with Christ, that would be lovely.  I do need your help.  If I don’t have help I will continue to fall more.  God put in my heart, “I know I am in prison on the outside, but on the inside, I’m freeeeee!”  May God bless you all.

Karen (adult)
Can you send 10 more of the tract “Beginning With Christ”?  Recently the Lord used me to lead someone to the Lord and I would like more to give to future believers.  Thank you!  (She was sent what she asked for.)

Michael (prisoner)
I am grateful for your ministry and your Bible Studies.  I will always be thankful for your love and service to others, especially for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
I really enjoy the format of your Bible courses.  They are both educational and spiritually informational.  I truly appreciate the way the material is presented.  It is easily understandable and applicable.

Ron (prisoner)
Thank you so much for this Bible Study.  I have been in prison for 16 years forgotten by most.  The injustice of our prison system cannot be believed unless you have been here.  In prison the life is day to day and it seems like my life will never end.  I read my Bible every day.  I know that someday soon I’ll be called to my home in heaven by my Savior, Jesus.
Your Bible studies are so very important to me.  I have gained a great deal more knowledge of the Bible through them!  Thank you again.  May God bless you.

Scott (prisoner)
Please pray for me!  I am to be released at the end of 2011.  When we did my home plan, my wife was to pick me up.  She called back later after I had left my case worker to say she was leaving me.  She was tired of being alone and moved on.  We have been married over 10 years and my sentence was only 9 months.  She is not picking me up and has put my things in storage.  I don’t have any help and will hitch-hike back to where my family is.  I am so heart-broken over this situation.  It seems as if there is nothing I can do.
I am giving this all to God.  I want to follow His will.  I will need your prayers for safety and direction with my wife leaving me.  Thank you.  (He was responded to, but can you pray for him?)

Anthony (prisoner)
A friend that told me this is a ministry gave me this address.  If so, I’m interested in changing my life around.  I just don’t know how to go about this.  You find me writing to you so I can find my way to the light.  Is there any way I can find help from Source of Light?  Do you all give Bible chores?  What you do give, send me some and thank you for your time.  God bless you and your loved ones.  You will be in my prayers.  Please pray for me as well.

Jose (Hispanic prisoner)
I am thankful first of all to God for using people like you to help us learn the basics of studying the Bible.  We are thankful for you, brethren in Christ Jesus.  May God bless you.  I ask God to prosper you with spiritual abundance and with the material things that you need to keep going.

Michael (prisoner)
I have been wondering, does your Bible study end after I finish this course?  (He is in the middle of My New Life In Christ, our first adult course)  I am praying that it does not.  I have enjoyed this Bible course very much.  I do not look forward to it being over.  God has blessed Source of Light with a wonderful gift.  I would like to thank all of you for sharing the gift and for all the work you do for God.  So in closing for the day I have got to say thank you with a Big Praise The Lord!

William (prisoner)
(In answer to the question, “What did you learn from this lesson?”) I would say besides being with our Lord and Savior, the greatest thing is what we as His children will be doing in Heaven.  Seeing our Lord face to face – Singing a song of praise – Serving the Lord – Reigning with our King – Worshipping our King and Lord.  I know that there will be no more pain, suffering, or diseases.  No more violence and heartache.  Christ is worthy of all worship.  I learned we’ll be with our Lord FOREVER.

James (prisoner)
Thank you for the Christmas card.  So few people take the time to send warm wishes to anyone.  I just wanted you to know it was a real blessing to me again.

Alisha (child)
(This is a letter we received from a girl one month after she accepted Christ through the lessons.)
First of all thank you for the Bible.  I read it all the time and when I was reading it, I found the Christmas story.  Also in “The First Steps for Believers” slip, I read about all the things I need to do.  Number 1 is Tell others about your salvation – I have happily told lots of people.  Number 2 is Unite with a church – God did a big miracle and my whole family is going to church now.  Number 3 is Believer’s baptism – I just got baptized.  Number 4 is Study God’s Word – I have been studying the Bible you gave me.  I feel so good to have a new life.  Oh, and how many more lessons are there? (She is in Explorers 1, so there are many more to go.)

Robert (prisoner)
Thank you so much for your thought-provoking Bible Study.  It has opened my eyes to some things and confirmed what I thought about others.  I greatly appreciate your kind and generous giving of providing pre-paid envelopes to me.  They help me tremendously.  Thank you so much.  Please continue to do what you are doing spreading God’s Word and His love.  Your work for the Lord is having a great impact on many people’s lives, including mine.  Thank you so much for praying for my prayer requests.  Truly it is making a difference.  May all of the staff at Source of Light Ministries have the merriest Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.  God bless you and your families and may His Love, Grace, and Presence be with you all.

Brandon (prisoner)
Hello, I send you all a happy and hearty Merry Christmas and a very prosperous year.  I thank you all and thank God for you all. You don’t know how blessed I feel every time your booklet comes under my door.  I pray you all experience the overflow of God’s blessings.

Clarence (prisoner)
I want to thank the Source of Light Ministries for the encouragement as well as providing postage for the Bible Studies.  As we come to the end and start of another year I want to wish you and your family God’s blessings.

Luis (Hispanic prisoner)
Now that I am reading God’s Word I have come to realize that I have to depend on Him and His love for me.  As a result I want to give myself body and soul to Him.  I also know that I am a constant sinner and I know that the Hand of God has reached me in that He has given me this lesson to turn to Him.  I believe and repent of my sins and I believe that through His mercy He has forgiven me.  I give thanks to God for turning you to me.

Joseph (prisoner)
First I thank Source of Light for helping me learn more about Jesus.  You have been faithful to me for almost 2 years.  You are doing a good job for God.
The lessons are very practical for me.  The details of everyday life and what God expects hasn’t always been clear to me.  Yet the Bible does have teachings on how to behave and this is the biggest lesson I have learned over the past few months in this course.  As a Christian I am to share Christ and be an example of Him.  God will enable me to carry out service for Him.  The Lord gives me guidelines for my life and this is why the Bible is great.  All my instructions are in His Word.  Thanks for the practical, easy-to-understand, and profound teachings.

James (prisoner)
I just wanted to thank you again for what you are doing for me.  I am able to see my life turning around.  I am having more good in my life.  My children have told me that they can see the changes in me.  What you have been helping me do means the world to me.  Everything you have done is greatly appreciated and this is coming from my heart.  I hope to keep getting your notes at the end of my lessons.  I hope you have wonderful holidays and the Lord keeps you safe.  Thank you again.

Steven (prisoner)
I am writing to say thank you for the help, by allowing me to study the Bible.  It means a lot to me.  Also thank you so much for your prayers for me.  I do appreciate your help and thank you again.

Jim (released prisoner)
For over three years you all have supplied me with Bible Studies, Bible tracts, and encouragement.  Thanks to you my growth in Christ has flourished.  I wanted you to know that.  I am leaving the prison in December and going to my sister’s house.  Please keep sending me the studies there.  Again thank you for everything and if you would, please pray for me especially for a job and protection from all the evil that will be thrown at me.

Tanner (child)
Please pray that my sister Avery would not bite me any more.

Avery (Child)
Pray that my brother Tanner would say he is sorry when he hurts me.

I know that many of you that receive this work for SLM in some manner, This issue is to encourage you that your labors are not in vain.  God is changing lives and they do appreciate your work.

Joe (prisoner)
I still struggle with desires over worldly things.  I was a furniture store owner, and I was used to buying furniture by the tractor-trailer load. There are times when I long for those days.  I know that it is because of the materialistic life I used to live.  I am asking God daily to remove these from me.

Steven (prisoner)
I received the Bible Dictionary and it means so much to me to have it.  I have already put it to good use.  I have learned more out of your Bible Studies and have a better relationship with the Lord because of all your help.
I don’t have a church to call home right now, and the Lord has been dealing with me about tithing.  Could you please send me information on how to send money to help support God’s work.

John (prisoner)
My cousin recently had cancer surgery.  She had it all removed and is now at home recovering.  Praise God! She has accepted Jesus as her Savior.  Thank you for your prayers on her behalf.  It is greatly appreciated.

Jane (adult)
Years ago my friend was saved, but husband and two sons still are not. (Pray for them.)  I started her on these lessons, but then I quit taking them.  Recently she encouraged me to start them again.  Praise the Lord! I am so thankful for Christian friends.

Felix (Hispanic prisoner)
Jesus lives in my heart and I have accepted Him.  I only ask that you pray that He will give me daily strength praise His Name!

Auora (adult)
Please pray about the bullying going on in my children’s elementary school.

David (prisoner)
I am having trouble putting people before God who should be first in my life.  I think about one person even more than I think of God.  I am in love, but I also think that I am addicted or even obsessed with this person.  I want to put God first in my life.

Pat (adult)
I have an auto-immune disease that makes me very tired.  I have surrendered it to the Lord, but would you pray for me?

Sharon (adult)
I got married in July and after three months I found myself not wanting a husband or wanting to be in a relationship with him.  He has gotten out of prison and cannot find a job.  It is putting a strain on our marriage.  He and I are going to Christian counseling, but we need prayer.  Can you please pray for our marriage and job situation as we give it to God?  We also will pray for you and all those with you for God’s grace and peace.  Thank you very much.  (She was sent a booklet with scriptures to help.)

Brendan (prisoner)
My mom is going through a lot of stress and worry about me being in prison.  I reassure her that I am in God’s hands and there are no better hands to be in.  I tell her not to worry, but how can you tell a mother not to worry?  Pray that the Lord may comfort her right now and since I don’t have long left to do, pray that He may get me home a little sooner than expected.

Debra (adult)
I need to be able to quit smoking because it interferes with my walk with God.  Pray for me.  (She was sent some materials to help.)

Jason (prisoner)
My biggest problem is using drugs and the whole lifestyle that comes with it.  I keep praying that I can break the cycle this time and become the man that I need to be for Him.  I would like for you to pray for my girlfriend also.  Thank you.  (We sent him a booklet to encourage him in his progress.)

Donald (prisoner)
I am going home soon.  I would like you to pray that I stay faithful to God.  Doing His will instead of my own.  Living as He has called me to.  Standing firm on His Word.  I want to finish my course; to stay pressing forward no matter what comes my way.  I have put all my trust in the Lord.

Bertha (adult)
I need you to pray for me to forgive a person who hurt me.  She is still even talking to others about what she did to me.  I want to get back at her so bad.  Pray that God can help me.

Kathleen (adult)
I would like you to pray for me, someone hurt me and I am having a hard time trying to forgive and forget.  I know that I have to forgive the person, but every time I see them. I have bitterness and resentment.

Darren (prisoner)
I am praying for my bothers and sisters in Christ – that we all may be made one in the Father into the unity of the faith and our sins removed by the precious blood of Jesus.

Sterlen (adult)
Clearly the most important thing I have learned in this course is how God loves me and finds me important enough to make me a child of God.  Not only that but I also got a better understanding of just what I have to look forward to – Heaven!  Praise the Lord and I thank you all very much for your time getting these Bible studies together, sending them out, and grading them when they come back.  God bless you and Merry Christmas.

(Editor note: I know that many of you pray for the people that are put in the Mailbag.  I put more of their prayer requests in this issue so that during this season of gift giving you could give the gift of prayer to them.  We appreciate you faithfulness in praying.  Thank you and Merry Christmas.)

Angela (adult)
My uncle just lost his 17-year-old son in a car accident.  Please pray for him.  Thank you.

Raymond (prisoner)
The most important thing I’ve learned in this course is that “Christ Himself” is the answer to all my needs.  With Him by my side, I can do anything!  Praise God!  Thank you all for bringing me close to Our Father.  I go home May 15, 2012.  Can you pray for my safety and my well-being to make it home to my family? God bless you all.

Kurt (prisoner)
I have a real problem showing love to evil people.  People who go out of their way to make others miserable.  People who when they see you are trying to change, point out your every little flaw, even though they are doing things that are much worse.  I know that I used to be just like them, but it really does bother me.  I hate when every other word I hear is a curse word.  Sometimes even the ones who claim to be Christians don’t believe they have to change and they disobey what God has said in His Word.  They say, “All I have to do is believe in Jesus”.  It bothers me that they don’t hear the truth that God wants to change them.  Please pray for my attitude.

Fredrick (African adult)
Thank you for the word of encouragement I receive from you.  And thank you for being our prayer partners.  You pray for us in jail, our loved ones at home, missionaries/evangelists/Bible school teachers.  I wish everybody there a happy holiday season.  I will appreciate if you send me an English Bible.  Keep looking if you can find a Kiswahili one.  I lived NW of Nairobi before coming here.

Linda (adult)
Thank you for all that you are doing and Merry Christmas.  Please pray for my oldest son; he is having financial troubles.

Michael (prisoner)
I am having trouble with my relationship to my fiancée.  My family needs prayer that they will have forgiveness in their hearts and that they will know I love them.  I need strength for myself to do the right thing and stay out of trouble.

Adrian (Hispanic prisoner)
It has been six years since I received Jesus as my Savior in my heart.  Things haven’t been easy for me.  For now God has permitted me to be removed from my family and I have been here in jail.  God has given me strength.  He only knows for what purpose He has for my life.  I have tried to find out the reason why I am here in prison.  Maybe He wants me to dedicate more to Him because I have been buried in preoccupations.  I love to read God’s Word and want to understand it more.  I am very interested in studying the context and history of the Bible.  I always ask for spiritual wisdom to be able to understand His excellent work.  Blessings and peace to all who walk in the Lord.

Alisha (child)
Alisha received Christ after her discipler sent her a gospel tract and a plan of salvation. Thank you! I would like a Bible.  I have always wanted one!  We had the privilege of sending her a Bible, her first one.

Amos (prisoner)
Hello! I want to apologize for not sending my Bible studies back on time.  I just have been taking it one day at a time, trying to keep God as first place as every day is a fight.  But, I am still well-loved by God at all times.  In I John 4, the word love occurs 27 times, and God’s love through Christ is cited as the source of our love for God and others.  I am very thankful to have you all in my corner.  God is in control!  God’s love is not a slowly dripping faucet or a well that we must dig for ourselves.  It is a rushing stream that flows from His heart to ours.  Whatever our background or experiences in life, whether we feel well-loved by others or not-we can know God’s love.  As we draw from the Lord’s inexhaustible source, we feel His loving care for us, so I just wanted to pass it on to you all.  May God bless you all!

Jevaughn (prisoner)
I am being baptized this month sometime.  My wife, daughter, and son are going to be baptized as well.  We are trying to do this on the same day.  Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Brittany (teenager)
Please pray for my uncle.  He is an alcoholic and is going through a lot right now.  He needs Jesus and he needs to realize what his drinking is doing to him.

Andrew (prisoner)
I would like to pray for peace and unity here on earth.  For the Lord Jesus Christ to use me as the example of change.  For me to speak the truth of the good Word of God.  Thank you and great blessings to you all this Christmas season.

Martha & John (adults)
Retirement decisions are in our near future.  Pray for the Lord to show us His plan for this chapter in our lives.  We need His guidance in where He needs us to be.  It’s All in His Hands!

Jarrod (adult)
Please pray for my relationship with my new family.  As my new 14-year-old son and I learn to live together, we often butt heads, which bring tension also between his mother and me.  So please ask God to give us patience and wisdom so that we glorify Him with our family.  (Some materials on building a strong home were sent to help.)

Terry (prisoner)
Please pray that God will continue to bless me with understanding of His Word and a purpose for my life.  I want to be obedient to Him in doing His will and giving all glory to Him that is due to His Holy Name.  I pray that people everywhere will have a blessed holiday season.

William (prisoner at the time, now released!)
I would first like to thank you for giving me the chance to study the ways of the Lord and the Word of God through these courses. I greatly enjoyed the truths learned through your studies.  I would also like to take this time to personally thank you and all of the members of Source of Light Ministries for taking the time and effort to fellowship with other Christian brothers and sisters in prison like me.  It had meant a lot to me, as I am sure it does to all the hearts you’ve touched.  I pray that your good work continues, and that you touch more hearts of the children of God.  My prison term ends in 9 more days and then I will serve 3.5 years of parole.  I ask if you could say a prayer for me to give me strength to do what I must do, and to continue in the faith and ways of the Lord.  I want to continue growing in the Lord through the lessons.  Please send them to my mother’s address so I can keep getting them.

Jeffrey (prisoner)
The most important thing I learned in this course is that the most precious truth in all the Bible is that, the Son of God loved us so much that He left heaven and became a man so He could die for our sins.

MaryEllen (adult)
Thank you for praying for our Good News Club.  We have seen one girl accept Jesus Christ as her Savior.  Please pray for me as I begin to teach the lessons.

Mark (prisoner)
My life 11 years ago was a huge roller coaster ride.  There were many twists and turns.  Now that I have opened my eyes to God I never want to close them to Him again.  Before I get carried away with this letter, I just want to thank you for helping this blind individual to see the truth.  When I finally leave this place, pray that God will lead me.  I want to help people to find the way to God, just like I have.  Keep me in your prayers just like I keep you in mine.

Gary (prisoner)
I was saved when I was young, but it’s been quite a few years since then, some up and many down.  Some were very challenging, but He’s always there and never has failed me once.  He is the only one, everlasting and faithful.  Through the events in my life He has brought me.  If it had not been for His hands of grace, mercy, patience, and compassion, I would have left this world years ago.  That is not His way.  His way is perfect, faithful, and peaceful.  I am extremely thankful to be one of His children and that He has allowed me to grow and mature in Him more every day.  Constantly walking hand in hand with Him is a privilege that cannot be replaced by anything.  Love so awesome, truly, and holy made available to us by His Son, His blood shed for us, so that we can be redeemed to everlasting life.  I don’t know how the rest of my life will be; but at the final end, I’ll be with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  So I end with this, will I see you there too?

Lisa (prisoner)
I’m beginning my new life in Christ and am happy to leave the old behind.  Pray for my spiritual progress as I learn to “cast all my cares” on Him.

Jean (adult)
I learned so many things about salvation.  This study helped me to understand so much better.  I learned that I have a long way to go to be the best Christian that I can be.  I also now more clearly understand how important it is for me to feel free to speak to others about Jesus.  I have learned to trust Him with my problems and cares.  I have realized how much He loves me.

Deloris (adult)
Thank you for including the Old Testament History with this lesson.  It is brief, concise, and presents the truth so well.  I can use it in sharing with others.  The lessons were a blessing and refreshing.  I have been helping others with the lessons and having an outreach here in my apartment complex.  One lady was saved and is making plans to be baptized.

Janis (adult)
I needed this truth – Because the glorious, exalted Christ lives in me by His Spirit, I can live a life of obedience and communion with God.  Halelujah!

Horacio (prisoner)
First of all, greetings and thank you for your prayers that my wife be delivered from cigarette addiction.  My request now is that I have not heard from her in over three months.  Please pray that she is doing well and that she will find Christ, no matter if she moves on with her life.

Steve (adult)
I have been battling alcoholism for years.  It has been up and down seems like forever.  The past year or so I’ve not done so well.  Please pray for me to have God’s strength and to say NO when the devil tempts me and tells me that I can handle it.  God bless you and thank you.

Charles (prisoner)
I would like you to pray for my spiritual growth.  I need strength as I prepare to get released.  I have been incarcerated for 16 1/2 years and I know the devil is waiting, but I know how to fight him now.  Bless you.

Loretta (prisoner)
I’m overweight and I’m afraid this is not good on my heart.  I really need prayer to help me to lose weight.  I need the strength to lose.

Wayne (prisoner)
I am understanding finally what I read in the Bible.  The lesson instructions were the key for me.  Now I pray for understanding before I read the Bible each day.

Geraldine (adult)
To whom it may concern: Sorry, my Bible study is late.  Since I last did one, I got married.  Here is my new name.  I am at the same address.  Also, I have taken over doing the Junior Church where we worship, so my time has been pretty taken up.  It has started to calm down now some, so I should not be this late again.  God bless you at Source of Light Ministries  (This hard-working, newly-wedded saint is a blessing to so many, as she continues to learn and serve at the age of 75.)

Lucille (adult)
I have enjoyed these Bible lessons very much.  I am a primary Sunday School teacher, and these lessons help me a whole lot.  (Smile)  I teach children from ages 6-8 years old.  How many lessons are there in this course?

Alisha (10 year old child)
At my church we have a building fund called “Joash”.  My parents teach the College and Careers Sunday School class and are doing a fundraiser for “Joash”.  Please pray that it will go well.

Brenda (adult)
Thought that I would write to let you know that I went to the flea market with a friend early Wednesday morning.  After I helped my friend set her table up, I let her know that I was going to look around for a Bible Dictionary.  At one table I found four!  I asked the women at the table how much for two of them, and they gave all four to me for nothing.  God knew I needed a Bible Dictionary and I got four!  One of them is pocket size and I can read on any book of the Bible to help me understand.  I have backslid, but I’m coming back to God and learning His way of living.  God is an awesome God.  He is showing me through His Word and what I am learning in the Bible Dictionaries how much He cares for me.

James (prisoner)
The most important thing I learned in this lesson is about Jesus’ second coming and what it will be like in heaven.  I particularly like the part about being able to recognize all the people we know.  I like that we will be able to see the LORD.  I am proud to be a Christian.

Kimberly (prisoner)
The devil is using women here to come up against me in a very negative way.  I pray that God will take hold of the situation and do what is best.  I don’t wish to lose the change of heart that I have gained with Christ in my life.  My soul has been redeemed and I want to keep close to Him.

Daryl (adult)
I tend to get angry too easily.  I try not to be that way, but sometimes I am not successful.  I try to get along with others, but at the time when something is said or done I end up in an argument.  I do not want to be trouble.  He (God) needs to help me.

Charles (prisoner)
My uncle is waiting on a lung transplant. He is my spiritual mentor as well.  His letters are always so uplifting and full of praising God.  Please pray for him during this rough time that he is experiencing.

Leon (prisoner)
My testimony is as follows: Before I accepted Christ as my personal Savior, I had a bad temper.
I grew up in a Baptist church, but I did not know Him.  I was molded in my childhood to obey, but I was not obedient.  I finally accepted Christ as my personal Savior June 23, 2011.  I prayed and asked God to change me from my temperamental attitude and He did!  With the help of the Lord I intend on doing His will.  Praise God!

Jackie (adult)
Since my memory is poor I need to talk on my last two lessons to let you know just what I’ve learned from the material.  I learned that Christ is in me the hope of glory.  Because of His righteousness I stand forgiven in Him for all my sins past, present, and to come.  This does not give me the right to continue to sin; it does instead make me all the more responsible for my sins and my actions.  It has renewed in me to be careful to make every attempt to be studying the Word on a daily basis.  I know that the more I am in the Word, I have a better chance of succeeding in the life I now live. (She then continues to share for 2 1/2 more pages.  God has blessed her with a good memory.)

Trahn (prisoner)
Thank you for sending me these courses.  November is the month I get transferred to my permanent prison and I will start the course once I get there.  It has been 18 months in this process and I thank you for all the support and spiritual helps that you have provided me.  Taking these courses has brought me to the mind-state of bettering myself to help others.  I now truly understand that God has me here to serve Him and my fellow man.  Please continue to assist me as much as possible in these courses.

Leroy (prisoner)
Please pray for my son who is in the military serving his country in the Middle East.  Pray for his protection and for world peace.

Ashley (prisoner)
I worry about my husband and our children (a boy and a girl) during this trial while we are all separated.  I only ask that you will pray they are comforted, protected, and guided during this trying hardship.  Thank you and God bless you!

Enrique (Hispanic prisoner)
Many times I want to write to you when I send back these beautiful lessons, but I don’t until now.  I can see that all of you are dedicated people able to teach the Word of God.  To this same Christ Jesus I give thanks for you 1,000 times.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Felix (prisoner)
I would greatly appreciate if you can pray for my dad.  He is carrying around a lot of unforgiveness in his life.  I want with all my heart for him to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, so that he may be saved and have everlasting life.  So please pray for his repentance and salvation.

During this season of thanksgiving I would ask that you would praise the Lord for His goodness and for the precious 181 souls that we have been blessed to see accept Jesus Christ as Savior since September 1st through the lessons sent from the Madison Discipleship school.

Michael (Hispanic prisoner)
I would like prayer for my cell mate because he has a very bad temper and I don’t want to have any problems with him. I always try to control myself the most that I can so that there is no violence between us. I ask that you pray that God will give me the necessary strength to be meek and humble.
Charles (prisoner)
As I write this, I am thinking about an inmate that I don’t get along with and I really want to pray for them. I ask for God to bless them that are against me.
Donna (adult)
My life has been very hard. I am dealing with my son that is on pot and I worry so much about my grandkids. Day and night I ask God to hear my prayers and keep them safe from harm. Thank you, dear Lord.
Aaron (prisoner)
I have given all my dealings to the Lord, and all my worries. I still worry and think a lot in life about how I do not know ‘why’. Now as I try to live, I let Christ live in me. May God bless us all!
Terry (prisoner)
Please join me in praying that God will continue to enrich my life by making Himself known to me and blessing me with the understanding of His Word. I want to be obedient to Him (All glory due His holy name!) Bless the Source of Light staff!
Rodney (prisoner)
I keep praying for all the lost souls. I would like that God would use me as well as others to bring nonbelievers to Christ. I pray for the families and all those involved in Source of Light Ministries that the Spirit of God will continue to guide and instruct them to keep helping people get a deeper understanding of Christ and His offer of salvation.
Lena (adult woman)
These lessons were harder to do but I did the best I could. I enjoy reading the scriptures.
Jesus (prisoner)
My prayers are for me to continue to walk with the Lord and to listen and follow His ways more each day. To be strong for my children and help teach them the Lord’s love. I want to show them how great our Lord is and His gift of life that He gave to us. Salvation is through the cross! He DIED FOR US!
Zonia (female prisoner)
I need more patience. I know that the Lord said to wait on Him, but I have not heard anything about my court case. I have not spoken to anyone. I have faith that God is working, but it is hard not hearing. Pray that I find out something. I am holding on.
Todd (prisoner)
I ask that you pray for my family and my mother especially to forgive me. I have behaved in an awful way over the years and I have hurt many people. Help me to get forgiveness, Lord.
Max (prisoner)
Brothers and sisters in Christ, please pray for me and my deteriorating marriage. Pray that the Lord Jesus Christ will intercede for my wife and me and give us forgiving hearts and to respect the virtues of our marriage.

H. P. (teenager)
Please continue to pray for me, concerning my sexual abuse case.  Pray for justice for me. (Note- additional materials were sent to help her.)

Tony (prisoner)
I’m going home soon and very scared.  A lot has happened while I was gone!  I’m going to be facing things I’ve been afraid of.  Please I need my wife to be receptive to me.

Jason (prisoner)
I just wanted to write to you and tell you God used your lesson.  I was being selfish by doing what I wanted to do!  I only got 88 days left.  God was telling me I need to be in His Word more and to go to every service I can go to.  I have the time here to prepare myself.  The devil is waiting on the other side of this gate to tempt me again.  I must be strong in God’s Word and His love to fight back.  I asked Him to please forgive me for being so selfish.  He died for me on the cross so I could be free.  I know He forgave me because your lesson told me that and I can feel it in my heart.  Our God is a loving God whom we all owe our very life to.  Well, I can’t wait for your next lesson.

Jose (Hispanic prisoner)
Hello, in truth I want to that you for all the support that you give me and the things that you send me.  This comes from the soul of God.  Thank you for the Bible that I received from you.  I want to see if I can do even better now that I have a Bible. I don’t have the words to thank you!!!!!

Chris (adult)
I’d like prayer for myself.  At times I let things really get to me.  I don’t want to be an ugly person.  I want grace from God to help with my actions and attitudes toward others even though people are not sociable or very nice to me.  I want to be used of God.

Reginald (prisoner)
The most important thing I learned in Course 2 is that Jesus is my everything.  He is my Lord of Lords, my King of Kings, my Life, and my All in All.  For without Him I can do nothing and He is coming soon and I have received Him as my Lord and Savior and I will be with my King forever.  The reason I know this is because I have received Him and believed on His Name thanks to this course.  I am no longer confused or unsure about my salvation. Thank you for helping me.

Franklyn (Hispanic prisoner)
I worry about the circumstances in which I find myself, but I want to trust Him with all my heart.  I wish to be filled with the Holy Spirit so that I can serve Him and produce fruit for His glory.  I want to continue to be strong in my faith until He crowns me with His blessings.  I also ask that you will pray that my family will trust in Him for their protection.

John (prisoner)
I read – study – pray daily – I have truly changed my way of thinking – attitude – feelings all for the good, because of your help and guidance into the Word of God and Jesus Christ!  I don’t ever want to lose or give up what I have been given and shown. (Period!)  I want and need to stay focused on real things- real life- not temporary things or life!  I truly pray that you understand what I’m trying to say. “Thank you all” always so very much.

Horatio (prisoner)
Please pray for my wife that she gets delivered from her nicotine addiction.  She is a child of God, but she is weak. I am not there to support her and Satan has his hand on her through this awful addiction.  Thank you.

Ivan (prisoner)
The most important thing I have learned from this whole course is this:  I have the absolute security of being loved and accepted by God because I am in Christ.  “I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that you have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. ” John 17:23  These courses have been a real blessing for me.

April (adult)
I pray for the lost.  Please pray for me for knowledge and understanding in God’s Word.  That I will draw closer to God and that I will get over this social anxiety and will be able to share Christ with others. (Note- additional materials were sent to help her.)

Larry (prisoner)
I know that God is on our (my wife and I) side, but we need a lot of prayers to be sent to Him in our favor.  You know, everyone messes up in life, and all we are asking for is a second chance to live right and to be able to worship God together in church.  We want to bring our kids to Him.  They have never met God before.  Please pray for us and we will pray for you and your family too.

Michael (adult)
I would like to find a church that is close to where I live and is a Spirit-filled church.  I don’t own a car and there is no public transit on Sundays.

Ken (prisoner)
Some people whom I talk to, they still drink (alchohol) and I would like to stay away from it.  I used to drink, but I know it is my problem.  How do I stay away from it?  (Note- additional materials were sent to help him.)

Douglas (prisoner)
Yes, I have a problem with my temper.  I feel it is from my past addictions, and I need help controlling it.  Are there any Bible verses in our Holy Bible to use as a help for this matter?  Also, please pray for the welfare of all mankind. (Note- additional materials were sent to help him.)

Shauna (prisoner)
The most important thing that I learned from this lesson is that Jesus is coming back and we better be ready if you want to go back with Him.  I’m so glad that I’m ready.  Thank you for the lessons and continue to pray for me.

Michael (prisoner)
Jesus came to earth to be the true sacrifice for mankind by dying on the cross for my sins and then raising from the dead 3 days later.  He is coming again someday to rapture His church of true believers.  He is the only way to God His Father as John 14:6 tells us.  He is also faithful and just to forgive us of our sins when you sin after you have been saved.  You should not want to sin after being saved but we are human and sometimes we give in to our lustful desires.  I want to thank you for sending me this study.  I continue to grow everyday.

James (prisoner)
Jesus died for me to have this very chance so it’s my turn to return this and do all I can to show others the love He gives me daily.  My thoughts, my pains, and all my worries, He took and freed me.  I live in His arms with peace and joy today.  I love the Lord with all my all; He is my friend and He is my Father. When I get to heaven I’ll finally be in the presence of Jesus.  I have so many things I would like to ask Him.

Donna (adult, former prisoner)
I got to go home November 3rd.  Please keep me and my family in your prayers.  I would like to keep getting your Bible studies at home. (She then gives her home address twice.)

Daniel (prisoner)
I came to Christ in 2004 after causing the death of a loved one.  I felt so bad about it I tried to commit suicide, it was a miracle that I lived.  By the grace of God, He had other plans for me. Praise God!  I am in prison doing a 25 year sentence which I do not mind doing, because this is God’s way of sending me to Bible college!

Petra (adult)
My husband is not saved. I have a son in jail and a daughter in prison. Pray for their protection and salvation.  Strength, Faith and Guidance for myself.

Jolean (prisoner)
My children are very upset and angry with me for being in prison.  I hope and pray, that eventually I can repair and rebuild my relationship with them.  I miss them a lot and love them so much!

Michael (prisoner)
I keep feeling as though God keeps turning his back on me.  Even though I know that He isn’t.  But every time something happy and joyous happens to me, in my life, something always goes wrong.  It’s been happening the last 3 years now.  I don’t like feeling this way but I can’t help it.  I try praying about it, but I don’t seem to be getting any answers.  Please help me with knowledge and wisdom.

Donald (adult)
Help me pray for my drug addiction and to pray for my children. I need the strength, wisdom, and support to fight off this drug problem so that I can be the person and father I need to be to my children.  (Note- additional materials were offered to help him.)

Ruben (prisoner)
It’s a hard pressed situation to be in here and it’s more so on my marriage.  Could you please join me in prayer for the restoration and solidification of our relationship and that of my family.  I want to be the living testimony that will bring them all or perhaps even some to Christ.

Robert (prisoner)
For many years before I gave my life to God I put many things first.  So, so sad. I had to go to prison in 2002 for 10 years for a crime I did not do and lose everthing I worked for.  So I could learn to lean on God and put Him first in all things.  Today I have peace, joy, hope, and happyness because I truly know God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.  I am a new person.  I also want to thank Source of Light for not forgetting me in prison.  Your lessons help me to renew my mind and I am a better person for that today!

Darrin (prisoner)
I’ve been in this place 13 years now, I’ve just started to go to church about a month ago.  I went because I keep getting into trouble and I need help.  My friend in Kansas signed me up for this so I’m glad about that.  God bless you.

Marlo (adult woman)
My family has been reunited after my 3 year prison sentence. I have been home for 6 months and it has been a struggle.  I am back with my ex-husband after 12 years.  He needs a better paying job.  My son is 15 and very depressed – having troubles in school.  Thank you and God bless you too!

Samuel (Hispanic prisoner)
I want to write to thank you for this marvelous study.  I am in prison and I have completed my time and I may be deported soon.  I ask for prayer for my parents who are in Guatemala.  I want to say that I knew Jesus Christ in a prison in Arizona in June of 2010.

Avery (prisoner)
Is it possible that I could receive stamps with my Bible studies, so I can be able to send my Bible studies back to you.  I am indigient and don’t receive any funds. I really like this Bible study and would love to continue if you can help. That would be a blessing.

Kimberly (prisoner)
I can’t break the bonds and chains of meth.  In order to be a mom to my daughter I have to do this.

Reginald (prisoner)
I am having a hard time forgiving myself and others.  Every time I try to move forward it seems like my past failures and mistakes won’t let me; especially the crime I did which put me in jail.  I truly need help with this.

Tonji (prisoner)
I would like to pray to be released very soon.  Also to pray for my grandkids and children let them know I love them.  Pray for God to help me and forgive me through my situation.  Please, God, come into my heart.

Nell (prisoner)
I am facing prison time and so is my son.  We need prayer for rehab which neither of us have ever been given a chance to go learn about addiction.

David (prisoner)
How do you deal with hard head people in prison?  I try to not pay them no mind.  I do pray for them.  In prison they are a lot of troublemakers I do good at avoiding them. However one is still around them and they are always being disruptive.  How do I deal with that; what else can I do beside pray?  (Note- additional materials were offered to help him.)

Trujillo (Hispanic prisoner)
I committed an error in my life.  I got involved with a person in a business with drugs.  This person gave me money and loaned me cars, but now I am in prison and I no longer serve that person.  I don’t have help from anyone only my parents who are very poor just like us and they help me with everything.

Hector (Hispanic prisoner)
Well, God bless you.  I don’t know if you know it but I am in prison here.  My small anguish is that I need you to pray for me because here in prison I don’t receive visitors, no letters, and not even contact with the outside world.  On top of all this everyone has turned their backs on me.  I have been here one year and three months so I need your support.