(From the beginning of this blog, I have used this space to reflect theologically on the things we experience in the culture around us.  I would also love to use this space to give more people at NewLife the chance to share, exhort, encourage, edify, and teach the things that God is putting on their heart to share.  In that spirit, here are a few exhortations from our guest writer, Wes Feshler.  Given our current series on the life of Joseph, which deals heavily with the subject of trusting that God is working towards a good purpose even when He seems absent, here are a few of Wes’ exhortations related to that topic:)

(1) Trust God

Proverbs 3:1-8 - My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart,  2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.  3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.  4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.  5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;  6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.  7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.  8 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.

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(The following is an account of Free Inside prison ministry by guest blogger Gordon Lawrence of NewLife.  If you are interested in becoming involved with Free Inside, contact NewLife or visit the Free Inside website at www.free-inside.com.)

Free Inside was started about five years ago by the current director (and former NewLife pastor) Peter Dewberry, who is the only paid staff member.  All other workers, who number about 50, are volunteers.  Our instructional material is the ALPHA program, and we alternate the 15 week ALPHA 1 introduction to Christianity with ALPHA 2, an introduction to the Christian life.  A normal program lasts two hours.  After a brief introduction, a 35 minute video is shown, followed by the inmates and volunteers breaking up into small groups for about an hour-long discussion.  The program closes with the sharing of prayer needs.  We run programs in the spring and the fall in order to allow breaks for volunteers. 
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(I am going on vacation and taking a two-week break from blogging.  This week, guest blogger Wes Feshler will be contributing a testimony of encouragement regarding what God has done in His life.  Take it away Wes!)

My pastor graciously invited me to write some encouraging words which, prayerfully, will increase our faith in Jesus Christ.  My words come from over 25 years of Christian experiences in many churches with many people.
     
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