Covenant Of Hope Ministries: November 2012

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Reasons to Be Thankful for God’s Gifts of Love

Covenant of Hope Ministries Sunday Sermon_11_25_2012

Good afternoon, and welcome to this Sunday Sermon for Covenant of Hope Ministries. I am Rev. Laura A. Neff, and the ministry knows me as the Rainbow Minister. These are our locations online only:

Main Site: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com

Rev. Laura’s Other Sites: Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope (currently out of use but may be used at another time.)

We have email and Instant Messenger available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday 10AM to 2PM ET US via Yahoo IM. We’re still working this out between the three of us as to what will happen, our Elder, Cal Jennings, our Apostle/Shepherd, Mary C. Michel-Lynch and I. The IM is available if you ask first and identify the reason as being part of the ministry. This IM is connected through Facebook as well. I will be informing you further in regard to changes being made. These changes were made due to health reasons. There will be live sermons, and the sermon length will be shortened dramatically, but we are unsure as to when that might be.
Prayer List: We have many on our prayer list. Some wish to remain anonymous, and others only wish to have their first names mentioned. Our prayer list has grown from last week. This is our current prayer list for this week.

Continue your prayers for Sister Mary. She has improved enough to transition to 24/7 care in place of hospice after her stroke. Please continue your prayers as she gains in ability and strength. She still eats just a few bites of mushed up fruit or pudding, and even sherbet, but not much more. She loves to take spa baths, and is more alert after them. She is also staying up longer, praise God. Due to several issues that are going on, I have not been able to visit as I should be.

Pray for our family. There are several things weighing us down, and they don’t all include my health, or that of any member of the family. Though, those don’t hurt.

Pray for Elder Cal, as he has still been feeling pretty rotten. May God provide him wellness, and bring that flicker of hope into a bright and roaring flame.

Pray for friends Karen, Christie, Art, Heather, Chris and his family, especially his father, Debby, Tom, Teresa, Hope, Christie, Joe and his family as they lost his mother-in-law, Robert’s brother and his brother’s fiancee suffering some serious chaos, and several others.

Phoebe Fair and her family need more prayers for her sodium levels rising and her potassium dropping. This is especially difficult in the upcoming chemotherapy treatment. Keep her family all in prayer as well, that they might celebrate the next set of holidays coming up at home, in place of the hospital.

Pray for our soldiers as they work so that we might celebrate all holiday celebrations here in the US.

Pray for safe voyage home for all as they celebrate Thanksgiving here in the US.

Pray for our outreach ministries, and all on their separate prayer lists, no matter where in this world they would be.

Prayer: Father in heaven, we thank You for this day and for these who are here to share it with us. We bring into prayer all those who are on this prayer list and our personal ones as well. We pray for our friends, our siblings, our parents, our spouses and our children that all would be safe and secure, loved and understood. We pray for our enemies that we both would learn that which is in the eye of the beholder. We pray in thanksgiving for life and the living of it as the gift which You have given through Christ our Savior and the gift of the Holy Spirit, Amein and so it shall be.

Opening Song: Thank You Lord http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/r/b5a391d72

Sermon: Thanksgiving, a celebration that is reserved for a single day here in the United States, but, in truth, it should be every day, because miracles and love exist every day, in too many ways to describe. So, we should do as our first verse here shares in Psalm 69:30 KJV – I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.

There are so many ways to be thankful and celebrate that fact, some of us praise God and are thankful for family, friends, and more as we go through life. Other times we sing those praises, as would be seen here in Psalm 95:2 KJV – Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.

There is one thing we must think about as time goes on. We should think about the fact that there will come a day when we would walk through the gates of heaven. We should be thankful and feel blessed, willing to sing praises to His name. That’s what Scripture shares in Psalm 100:4 KJV – Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name.

In our celebrating just a few short days ago we thought about, and prayed for our friends and family, praying they were safe and more. Our ministries didn’t bring bad things to any of us. Several prayers were answered. So we have many things to be thankful. But, that doesn’t mean we should stop praying or being thankful for those good things, as we see here in Colossians 4:2 KJV – Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

We see that same sentiment as shared in I Timothy 4:4 KJV – For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused if it be received with thanksgiving:

Isn’t it nice to be considered good in God’s eyes? Isn’t it a true blessing that nothing and no one would be refused, as long as we are thankful and celebrate thanksgiving, not just one day, but every day.

Revelation 7:12 KJV – Saying, Amen: Blessing and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

Yeah, we could all say just what is shared. So it is, Amen, blessing, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might, if we should see them, own them, should be realized as gifts of God, and we should be thankful, grateful, that He would give us these very things. Now, isn’t that something to look at? We see this same thing in so many views, as to whom we should be thankful for, just because we receive these gifts. There is a reason we should be giving thanks, and this last verse shares just that here in Revelation 5:13 KJV – And every creature which is in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

It is something to be blessed, yet another to give blessings. All of us worthy of blessing, should reciprocate toward He who would bring us blessing. That doesn’t just include mankind, every creature, every plant, everything in the world and around it should be seen as receiving blessing. If you’ve ever listened to the sounds around you, of the birds, and other creatures around this world, you’ll see a whole lot, hear so much more, and realize we should all be thankful for each and every gift we are given. Now, that’s something to think about as we pray in the prayer Jesus taught us saying: After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)

Closing Song: Because He Is http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/r/b6799b872

Rev. Laura A. Neff ~ The Rainbow Minister Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot & Multiply

Calvin Jennings ~ Elder Facebook & Twitter & Blogster & Multiply

Mary C. Michel-Lynch ~ Apostle/Shepherd Facebook & Blogspot & Multiply

Covenant of Hope Ministries

Main Sites: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com & http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

Our mission for Covenant of Hope Ministries and Poetic-Expressions is not to exploit fear, but to conquer it, and overcome all that is created through fear together as the rainbow in the darkness.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Blessings Seen as Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder

This one came in my email this morning. I thought it fit this week. It shows how love one another can be seen in other ways. Here are the verses from Numbers 6:24-26 KJV - The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

Blessings of grace and peace, now, isn't that what we should be teaching each other? Isn't that what we should be learning from each other? During this week as we Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, it might be nice to think of those who have nothing. Imagine, you are safe and warm somewhere, but there are those who must huddle in doorways, alleys, dumpsters, even caves and dangerous buildings of all kinds. You have food and drink, where somewhere else the fight for clean water, good food, is one of bare survival. And yet, so many have forgotten, it doesn't take things. It takes love one another, being faithful and gracious, peaceful and willing to bring blessings. No, it's not easy. Yes, even I have fallen down on this one. The wonders of this world are seen if you know where to look. And see it on the inside, not the outside, then you'll understand those who choose to live where they live, even when they have the capacity to live in better places. It doesn't take money, or the land of plenty, if you see you are rich even if you have nothing, because riches should be seen as love, happiness, faith, hope and peace, not money, possessions, stature in society, power, or any of that. Remember, if it weren't for the trees, the grass, the water, the animals, and more, you wouldn't breathe, you wouldn't eat, you couldn't build shelter, and would have nothing to drink. Now, there is much more to consider when we think about being thankful for the blessings we DO have, as opposed to the ones we WANT to have. There's something to think about.

Rev. Laura A. Neff ~The Rainbow Minister

Calvin Jennings ~ Elder

Mary C. Michel-Lynch ~ Apostle/Shepherd

Covenant of Hope Ministries
http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com &

http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our mission for Covenant of Hope Ministries and Poetic-Expressions is not to exploit fear, but to conquer it, and overcome all that is created through fear together as the rainbow in the darkness.

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Warning With Comfort Together Sharing a Familiar View

Covenant of Hope Ministries Sunday Sermon_11_18_2012

Good afternoon, and welcome to this Sunday Sermon for Covenant of Hope Ministries. I am Rev. Laura A. Neff, and the ministry knows me as the Rainbow Minister. You can find us live Sundays at 12:30 PM ET US and These are our locations online only:

Main Site: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com

Rev. Laura’s Other Sites: Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

Continue your prayers for Sister Mary. This morning she was sleeping comfortably according to her nurse. Though she responds a little, she is still not able to do much. She still continues to sleep for very long periods. She eats a few bites of mushed up fruit or pudding, and even sherbet, but not much more. She loves to take spa baths, and is more alert after them. Due to several issues that are going on, I have not been able to visit as I should be.

Pray for our family. There are several things weighing us down, and they don’t all include my health, or that of any member of the family. Though, those prayers don’t hurt.

Pray for Elder Cal, as he has still been feeling pretty rotten. May God provide him wellness, and bring that flicker of hope into a bright and roaring flame.

Pray for friends Karen, Christie, Art, Heather, Scott, Debby, Tom, Chris, Chris’s family, Chris’s father with heart issues, Teresa, Hope, and several others.

Pray for our soldiers as they work while we celebrate Thanksgiving here in the US.

Pray for our outreach ministries, and all on their separate prayer lists, no matter where in this world they would be.

Pray for all those travelers in the US as we prepare for the holiday known as Thanksgiving.

Prayer: Father in heaven, we thank You for this day and for these who are here to share it with us. We bring to you the many men, women and children who would be in need, no matter what the need would be. We pray for those travelers, and those protectors of what freedom we have. We pray for guidance in our times of need, and answers to questions and concerns we would have. We pray all these things in Your Holy Name, through our Savior Jesus Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit, Amein and so it shall be.

Opening Song: Wonderful Words of Life http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/r/bab8b056a

Sermon: Today I’m working in similar fashion as our Elder, Cal Jennings. The reason for this has to do with clarity. Every style of Scripture has its own way of expression. Yet, there are many who would want to stick with one version. It is much better to be well rounded when it comes to learning Scripture and the various perspectives therein. Let’s start here where we are learning about what will happen at some point in the future. This assuredly sounds very familiar at this point in time, in more than one location all through Scripture. So we start here with Psalm 37:9-12 KJV – For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.

For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.

But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.

When you see the word plotteth, it could also be practiceth. Now let’s see it in a different point of view here in the NIV – For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.

A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found.

But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.

The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them;

What is God giving us? He’s giving us both a warning and a comfort. Many of us don’t realize we would always need both. The reason being, we are quite human in all ways, unless within the Spirit of the Lord. Wait for God, be diligent, though meek and mild, it doesn’t mean weak in any way. To collect all of these together, we find that which we cannot own alone, but must be shared between us.

What is God promising will happen? The wicked will perish, and the righteous, the good, will find peace and harmony. Thus, it is both a warning and a comfort. This is proven in both points of view.

Psalm 37:13-15 KJV – The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming.

The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation.

Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken.

In verse twelve we see these words, such as be of upright, which would also be considered the upright of way. This, according to potential changes in the way people would look at the verses. Truthfully, every perspective, when brought together, might give us a much broader understanding of God’s thoughts and plans for this world we live in. Let us see how that can show as we look at the same verses in the NIV – but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming.

The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose way are upright.

But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken.

I remember hearing the words, “Your day is coming.” This is a promise, not just heard or read somewhere, but one delivered in Scripture, many times. Our anger, and all the rest of those seven troubles seen as seven times that many, and then seven times that, continuously, would indeed bring us down, whether to our knees for mercy or in the realization that our deeds end in ways we’d rather they not manage. Now let’s look at the one supporting verse for this entire section, only to see yet another view. Here we see just that in I Samuel 26:10 KJV – David said furthermore, As the LORD liveth, the LORD shall smite him, or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle and perish.

David makes sense, even with the old fashioned language. For clarity, though, let’s look at a newer perspective as shared here in the NIV – As surely as the LORD lives, he said, “the LORD himself will strike him; either his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish.

We don’t realize that when we forget where the true path would be, we get lost in the wilderness, and fall prey to the troubles and more. When we do realize this, we can find our way back. There are consequences for those who fail to manage seeing truth for what it is, and sharing evil or wickedness instead. Learning how to tell the difference is very important for us. Now, that’s something to think about as we pray in the prayer Jesus taught us saying: After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)

Closing Song: Give Thanks http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/record/done/b97ba756a

Rev. Laura A. Neff ~ The Rainbow Minister Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot & Multiply

Calvin Jennings ~ Elder Facebook & Twitter & Blogster & Multiply

Mary C. Michel-Lynch ~ Apostle/Shepherd Facebook & Blogspot & Multiply

Covenant of Hope Ministries

Main Sites: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com & http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

Our mission for Covenant of Hope Ministries and Poetic-Expressions is not to exploit fear, but to conquer it, and overcome all that is created through fear together as the rainbow in the darkness.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

The Blessings of Faith, Hope and Unconditional Love

Covenant of Hope Ministries Sunday Sermon 11/11/2012

Welcome to this Sunday Sermon for Covenant of Hope Ministries. I am Rev. Laura A. Neff, and the ministry knows me as the Rainbow Minister. You can find our sermons on Sundays, blogged here on these locations, online only:

Main Site: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com

Rev. Laura’s Other Sites: Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

We have email and Instant Messenger available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday 10AM to 2PM ET US via Yahoo IM. We’re still working this out between the three of us as to what will happen, our Elder, Cal Jennings, our Apostle/Shepherd, Mary C. Michel-Lynch and I. At this time, due to a terrible stroke, Sister Mary would not be able to assist for the moment, until and unless we pray that the Lord heal her. The IM is available if you ask first and identify the reason as being part of the ministry. This IM is connected through Facebook as well. I will be informing you further in regard to changes being made. These changes were made due to health reasons. If, through the grace of God, the health issues for all of us are solved, our sermons will again be live. The sermon length will be shortened dramatically, but we are unsure as to when that might be.
Prayer List: We have many on our prayer list. Some wish to remain anonymous, and others only wish to have their first names mentioned. Our prayer list has grown from last week. This is our current prayer list for this week.

We want to bring all the soldiers, to honor the veterans of all wars and battles, that their lives be blessed in Your gift of hope and unconditional love.

We celebrate the birthday of my sister Lisa today, and Brother Wayne Bartosh on the 13th.

We bring Sister Mary Michel-Lynch into prayer after a devastating stroke, may she be healed in Your Love and Hope, the gifts you have through Y’shua, our Savior Jesus Christ.

We bring friends Heather, Kristie, Art, Hope, Teresa, and many others into prayer for healing and faith with hope and love.

We continue to pray for Elder Cal and Rev. Lisa for healing.

We pray for all the ministries that would be connected with Covenant of Hope.

We pray for the nation as trials and tribulations would ensue, not just in one place, but in every place.

We pray for those who were lost due to hurricane Sandy and the super storm that struck.

We pray for those affected by storms, earthquakes and other chaos around the globe.

We pray for friends, family, our enemies and so much more.

We pray for little Phoebe Fair, who continues to fight AT/RT cancer. Please also pray for all of her family as they help her through this.

Please continue the prayers for my family as we continue in prayer for each of our trials and tribulations, some are very devastating.

Prayer: Father in heaven, we thank You for this day and for these who are here to share it with us. We bring many friends and family members up in prayer for health, financial, and other reasons. We bring our soldiers, our veterans, who have served honorably in all conflicts and wars, past and present. We add our soldiers who are out around the world, that they keep safe and warm and are able to return home. We pray for family, friends and colleagues. We include our enemies, as You have taught us. We do all this in Your Holy Name through our Savior Jesus Christ and the gift of the Holy Spirit, Amein and so it shall be.

Opening Song: Trading My Sorrows http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/r/c28da8988

Sermon: Due to the events of many of us this week, our Lord and Savior, and our Father in heaven chose a different direction, at least for this sermon. They brought me to the Scroll of Luke. Not only did They bring me to this particular section, They taught me something I didn’t realize we all need. Let’s see where the Lord Jesus and our Father led me as we begin here in Luke 1:69-70 KJV – And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;

As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets which have been since the world began:

Salvation, sounded through a horn, for all of us through David, King of Israel. God has always spoken through the holy prophets who have came and have been since the very beginning of this world as it was, and as it should be still. They are watching us, like shepherds as shared here in Jeremiah 23:5 KJV – And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking saith the LORD.

When God says feed them, He means to nourish us in the Word, in the truth that is faith, hope, charity, salvation, righteousness, wisdom and more. We would never lack, and you should remember that lack would be missing something within our hearts, our spirits and souls. Some of us have suffered this many times in our lives. Yet, if we turn to God, and see His love is right there, wrapped around us, we would remember as Jeremiah shares here in Jeremiah 30:10 KJV – Therefore fear thou not, O my servant Jacob, saith the LORD; neither be dismayed, O Israel: for lo, I will save thee from afar, and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and shall be in rest, and be quiet, and none shall make him afraid.

Fear has two sides, like a coin. There is a good form of fear, and a bad one. Many of us suffer from both, depending on the situations we are in, or things we have seen in our lives. This is not something so unusual, but if we remember God’s love is unconditional, then we will remember that He is right here, walking beside us, or carrying us through the times that are rougher than we can manage.

Daniel 9:24 KJV – Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconcilliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

Here Daniel speaks of the ending of sins, through our Savior, and our Father, as He brings Jesus into this world through the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary. In the future, as promised to David, to Abraham, and Noah and more before and after each of them. The promise made that the earth would be returned as it was from the beginning with Adam and Eve. This is shared with the words in Acts 3:21 KJV – Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

It is again shared here in Romans 1:2 KJV – (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures, )

After this we are able to share the fact that we can be saved if we listen, and hear, and follow His truth believing He can assist in all things, whether it would be fighting enemies of all sorts, and fighting the trials and tribulations in our lives.

Luke 1:71-72 KJV – That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;

To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;

The reason God would remember is because it was a promise made, many years before Luke and his lifetime, and mercy was promised not just through our Father, but through our Savior Jesus. God remembers everything, knows all that is, and was, and will always be, as Scripture also shares in many ways through Scripture as seen in just one view here as we look at Leviticus 26:42 KJV – Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.

When we swear an oath, a promise, it means we make an unbreakable promise. It’s not easy to keep promises. Yet, it is still possible to manage. This is shared here in Luke 1:73-74 KJV – The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,

That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear.

Luke is sharing a past prophecy, a past gift of unconditional love toward a friend of God, who was Abraham, as shared here in Genesis 12:3 KJV – And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

Blessings are what promises can bring, and when God makes a promise, it’s one of the greatest views of promises to make, because it is a promise from His heart, His spirit, and His unconditional love, as we can see here in Hebrews 6:13 KJV – For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself.

This is a repeated view of a promise made and kept in the gift of His unconditional love. We see what it means as we continue seeking the truth shared in the gospel of Luke 1:75-76 KJV – In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;

To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the dayspring from on high hath visited us.

Luke, of course, speaks of the Savior, Jesus Christ, who would prepare the pathway, the highway, the road toward salvation. You will see, even God knows what a highway is. There is one heart, one way, one path to share with each of those who believe, who have faith, who are tested and pass every trial, every tribulation. In each of our lives this is exactly what would be seen. Yet, together we are strong within faith and love written here in Jeremiah 32:39 KJV – And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them:

If you remember, Jesus spoke of putting on the new man. It means to leave everything earthly behind. This is very difficult to manage as we have to fight the seven troubles, the wickedness of earthly behavior and more. It is shared here as well in Ephesians 4:24 KJV – And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Something else we should note, for all that God has given, we should be thankful. For the promises that Jesus brought to us in the path toward salvation, we should be grateful, and do so always. Again, this is not easy to manage. People change the way the Word is written, shared, and understood. Many of us don’t realize how much is changed as again shared here in II Thessalonians 2:13 KJV – For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

Amazing as it sounds, God created the method for us to build roads, highways, and more. We may never realize this, but it is proven in His word through the prophets, as seen here in Isaiah 40:3 KJV – The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.

Mercy is found in the fact that God would indeed be there to help us through the worst parts of our lives. He manages this by bringing the Holy Spirit to our sides, thanks to the Savior Jesus Christ, who brought this to those who love Him as of the day of His death, and then His resurrection sealed that promise of salvation as would be shared in Luke 1:77-80 KJV – To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins.

Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us.

To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

‘By the dayspring’ could also be ‘or for the dayspring’. So many people forget that God and Jesus are walking amongst us, see us going to and fro, up and down, all the way around. The gift of omnicience is one thing God could not share with us, but would share with Jesus, who knew many things from the past, the present, and the future. He was one who knew how many would walk in darkness and could be brought out of that darkness with the gifts of faith and hope, and charity of the heart. It is shared here in Isaiah 9:2 KJV – The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.

Fear is not easy to forget, to leave out of our lives, but it can be done. Fear of the Lord is to fear that which would happen, not here in an earthly fashion, but in other ways. This is why He tests us. This is why we suffer, only to learn what hope would be, what unconditional love can prove. Now, that’s something to think about as we pray in the prayer Jesus taught us saying: After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)

Closing Song: Just As I Am http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/r/bfb76dfc8

Rev. Laura A. Neff ~ The Rainbow Minister Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot & Multiply

Calvin Jennings ~ Elder Facebook & Twitter & Blogster & Multiply

Mary C. Michel-Lynch ~ Apostle/Shepherd Facebook & Blogspot & Multiply

Covenant of Hope Ministries

Main Sites: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com & http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

Our mission for Covenant of Hope Ministries and Poetic-Expressions is not to exploit fear, but to conquer it, and overcome all that is created through fear together as the rainbow in the darkness.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Serious Need for Prayer: My Friends and Brothers and Sisters in Christ

My Friends and Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I have just received devastating news in regard to our Apostle/Shepherd Mary C. Michel-Lynch here at Covenant of Hope Ministries. She had a stroke somewhere between Sunday night and Monday morning, as I have already notified you. This morning she was given a CT scan again because she was far worse than the day prior. What was found was huge amounts of swelling on both sides of her brain. If the swelling continues, it is only a matter of time before her life here on earth will be over. The doctors are already discussing hospice if this ends up the case. She would go to the best hospice care location in the area, for her comfort. I will be the first to be notified, and, most likely will be there when she goes in. She has left her final wishes should she have anything this devastating occur. And I have possession of those wishes, in writing and certified. Please keep all of us here up in prayer, as Mary has lived with us, or near us, for the majority of three years.

Lift Sister Mary's life up into Your hands Father, your will be done, in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit, Amein and so it shall be.

~ Rev. Laura~

Covenant of Hope Ministries

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Prayer Request and Study

And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. - I John 2:25 KJV

Yesterday at just about 8 AM, an ambulance carried Sister Mary Michel-Lynch and I to the hospital. We were there due to a massive ischemic stroke Mary suffered somewhere between 10-11 or so Sunday evening to yesterday morning before 8 AM. We spent the entire day there with tests and more. She is semi-responsive, or was when I last left her. Keep your prayers up.

Our ministry member, Sister Mary Michel-Lynch, loves Jesus and the gift He gave, and has for many, many years. Though she had already learned a lot about Scripture when I met her all those years ago, she wanted to learn more about interpreting, understanding, and so much more. It didn't matter the age difference. And, of course, God would say age doesn't matter in the first place. Mary has been sharing studies on I John. I got this one in my email this morning. I think He's trying to tell us something. Perhaps that hope really and truly is our rainbow in the darkness. Some of us take a long time seeing that one. I'm glad that it gets seen, no matter how long it takes. Keep your prayers up for Sister Mary, as, for the moment, I do not have a status report. I will inquire after the shift change at the hospital this morning. Unfortunately, it is up to the weather and election day traffic as to the potential for me to go and see her today. It's raining good and hard right now.
Rev. Laura ~ Covenant of Hope Ministries

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Slow to Anger Forsaking Wrath in the Face of Wickedness & Evil

Covenant of Hope Ministries Sunday Sermon_11_04_2012

Good afternoon. Welcome to this Sunday Sermon for Covenant of Hope Ministries. I am Rev. Laura A. Neff. The ministry knows me as the Rainbow Minister. You can find us recorded, live or written on Sundays at 12:30 PM ET US at our locations online only:

Main Site: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com

http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Rev. Laura’s Other Sites: Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

We have email and Instant Messenger available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday 10AM to 2PM ET US via Yahoo IM. We’re still working this out between the three of us as to what will happen, our Elder, Cal Jennings, our Apostle/Shepherd, Mary C. Michel-Lynch and I. The IM is available if you ask and identify the reason as being part of the ministry. This IM connects to Facebook as well. I will inform you in regard to all changes being made. These changes are due to health reasons. There will be live sermons, but sermon length will be shortened dramatically, we are unsure as to when that might be.
Prayer List: We have many on our prayer list. Some wish to remain anonymous, and others only wish to have their first names mentioned. Our prayer list has grown from last week. This is our current prayer list for this week.

From Rev. Lisa and other lists: Stacy – breast cancer

Jackie – blood clot

Clay - had surgery Oct 8 again, pray about recovery

Norma - surgery Wednesday Oct 10 for breast cancer, pray no chemo needed and quick recovery.

Rod – lump in throat, going to doctor Thursday

Sy– problems with his throat too

Tami –

Jessika and family – emotional strength and all needs met, healthy baby

Sister Rachel, Joe, Lonnie, Johnnie and Jessie

Joel – asking for healing for his brain, and ability to memorize for his job

Maisie - 2 yr old in UK brain damage

Raiden - 3 yr old in coma, possible brain damage from accident

Pascal and his sister - need food and school supplies

Carol – foot and elbow pain

Laura– multiple health problems

Gene

Shirley

Carrie

Jimm – back injury and pain

Lulu – loss of limb, health issues

Multiple people on my FB list with severe health issues

Jerry – emotional issues, demons, deafness

Ruth and family

Tierra and her father (he has multiple health problems, lives far away)

Sarah - breast cancer

Robin - breast cancer

Sara – cyst

Julie – cysts

Clara – pain and various health problems, knees too

Kristine – peace

Angela – strength, clarity

Roberta – her children

My sisters and family – Angela, Mary and Eileen – all needs met

John

Robert

Janet

Clay – handicapped boy, shunt malfunction and infections, spina bifida

Pam – not feeling well lately

Lisa – meth addiction, asks for help and healing

Sister Inaiker (name unknown) epilepsy, panic attacks, deafness

Other no name given prayer requests

Dr. Anna – pain, fatigue, financial needs

General prayers for God’s workers

Mary – good prayer partner and writer

Mary – faithful and writing to help others

Ruth

Laura

Pam

Dr. Anna

Tomarra – pastor’s wife

Bernie – desires to learn of God, needs study material

Pastor Stan

Pastor Prince

Pastor Creflo

Pastor Joyce

(many more)

Overseas ministries

Francis Ondara

John Namavarapu

Tobias Ayugi

Apostle Al Anyona

Evangelist Abel

Pastor Ravi Daniel

(many more)

Phoebe Fair has been on our prayer list for her AT/RT cancer treatments. We must also pray for her brother, who has a cold. Phoebe has been in the hospital with minor complications on and off due to her AT/RT cancer treatment, but the setbacks can be very dangerous, and especially at such a young age. Her pituitary gland is gone as a result of the chemotherapy, as a result she has no sense of thirst and is always hungry. This will forever plague her. Please keep her, as well as her family, in your thoughts and prayers.

We pray for Elder Cal Jennings, that his health improve and he be more able to work toward the glory of God. We pray he and his mother can be feeling better.

We pray for Apostle/Shepherd Mary Michel-Lynch that her issues be resolved, or at least uncovered fully, and her health return.

We pray for Emilie and Joey for health and education issues they are working on with some serious changes being made.

We pray in for other family members and friends who have suffered a rather terrible set of news.

We pray for Tony who has had a very hard pair of months.

We pray for Christie and her son, that their troubles, trials and tribulations have solutions soon.

We pray for Heather and Art, that they return to health and are able to do the things they love once more.

We pray for the family of Jacob Olivier who has been missing for two years.

We pray for friends Teresa and Hope, that their financial issues be resolved.

We pray for Debby, Karen, Jackie, for health to return for each of them.

We pray for Jason and Joyce and family, as Jason has been fighting cancer.

We pray for those who are suffering strife around this world, in every form and formula.

We pray for all our ministers and their ministries worldwide, may they prosper and grow.

We pray for everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy.

We pray that political chaos would come to an end that will benefit the many, in place of the few.

We pray for those at war, that peace might be reached. We pray for those who have been devastated by natural disasters and more, that they be able to recover. We pray for war torn countries that their economies recover. We pray for the economies of the world, that they work toward solutions.

Prayer: Father in heaven, we thank You for this day and for these who are here to share it with us. We pray for those who are sick on our list, and those who are suffering that their illness and their suffering be short lived. For those who suffer chronically, that their hearts be made stronger for the bad days and that they are able to savor the good ones. We pray for understanding from all for the many and the few, the able and everyone else too. We pray for those who are at war, that peace might be found. We pray for the homeless, those suffering from disaster of any type, and those who are jobless, may the gift of hope be with their hearts, spirits and souls. We pray all this in Your Holy Name through the grace of Jesus Christ our Savior and the gift of the Holy Spirit, Amein and so it shall be.

Sermon: When we are too fast in our reactions, in other words, we leap before we look, and fail to stop and think, we often get ourselves into trouble. We succumb to the seven troubles, not just one of them either. It’s no picnic to work with patience and persevere within it. It is one of the most difficult things in the world, to hang on to our virtues, the parts of us that can keep us within the righteous nature God knows would be somewhere in our heart, our mind, our spirit and our soul. That’s where we start our sermon today as we look here at Psalm 37:7 KJV – Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

Rest in the Lord can also be seen as Be silent to the LORD. When you think of this as more than just being patient, but as being able to just hang on, even if it’s with your fingernails, in the midst of tribulation seen in wickedness and evil, then you see what God is sharing, and not just God, but Jesus and the Holy Spirit, though neither of the last two would be mentioned by name.

Now we’ll go into the next verse and see how perseverance, prudence, and faith fit into these thoughts as we go on to share Psalm 37:8 KJV – Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.

Adding to the explanation would be several verses that share amazing additions to the thought of preventing our fear, our trials and tribulations to take over thoughts, actions, and more. So, we’ll start with Job 5:2 KJV – For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one. Oh, now we get into the ideal of the seven troubles, at least two of them. You might remember my thoughts on being called foolish or calling someone foolish. To be called a fool should feel like being slapped across the face. It should feel like you’ve been shamed. It is as close to what we know to be profanity as it can get in Scripture.

So, let’s go further into this ideal as we read what it shares in Psalm 73:3 KJV – For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

Well, look at that, now you see foolishness compared to wickedness. Envy, yet another of the seven troubles we’ve spoken of over the years. It’s not hard to even think of envying those who covet, those who prosper when we either do not, or cannot for whatever reason. It is hard to be humble and understanding in the midst of all of that as times get harder, hope is more difficult for us to see and share.

Proverbs 14:29 KJV – He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly. Let’s remember, never hurry in our decisions, in our getting angry. It’s no easy thing, that’s for certain, but it can be managed. Holding our tongues, our thoughts, our need to express our anger by attacking that which causes it, that’s no easy feat of endurance, of any form of patience. But those of us who suffer leap before we look also have our issues with foolishness, following when we shouldn’t, and more.

Ephesians 4:26 KJV – Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.

Do you remember the phrase “never go to bed angry”? It’s something we’ve heard for family, for spouses, but we should also include anger regarding friends, colleagues, or something that occurs during that day. That’s why we have prayer. It’s also why we have the time to think, time to reflect on things and see if we could have done something differently. Sometimes it takes a while to figure that out, and that’s another reason to never go to bed angry.

James 1:19 KJV – Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Here’s a familiar thought, just spoken straight up, as James would be throughout his small epistle. We’ve studied much in regard to James and his thoughts. Listen close, think about it, and then speak before blowing our tops. You realize that’s one reason I ask everyone to think about what is said in each sermon and study. If we do ponder what is shared in the Scriptures, then we begin to understand and take steps toward our wisdom in God’s unconditional love. Now, that’s something to think about as we pray in the prayer Jesus taught us saying: After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)

Rev. Laura A. Neff ~ The Rainbow Minister Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot & Multiply

Calvin Jennings ~ Elder Facebook & Twitter & Blogster & Multiply

Mary C. Michel-Lynch ~ Apostle/Shepherd Facebook & Blogspot & Multiply

Covenant of Hope Ministries

Main Sites: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com & http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com

Our mission for Covenant of Hope Ministries and Poetic-Expressions is not to exploit fear, but to conquer it, and overcome all that is created through fear together as the rainbow in the darkness.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

The Evil Who Gain from Evil from Elder Cal Jennings

This is a study brought to us by Elder Cal Jennings.

The Evil Who Gain from Evil

Have you noticed how it seems that those who do evil are the ones who always get ahead? They lie, cheat, and steal their way to the top with seemingly no repercussions while those of us who do our best to do right, be honest, and truthful seem to be left in the dark? Doesn't it seem that these occurrences are becoming even more prevalent today with even some religions screaming for war when Jesus is the Prince of Peace? Here is what the Bible says about these things.

Psalm 37:1-4
New International Version (NIV)
Psalm 37[a]
Of David.
1 Do not fret because of those who are evil
or be envious of those who do wrong;
2 for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.
3 Trust in the Lord and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Footnotes:
1Psalm 37:1§This psalm is an acrostic poem, the stanzas of which begin with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet.

A little later in the Psalm, it speaks of these who want war and hate rather than love and peace and what will be the final result.

Psalm 37:12-20
New International Version (NIV)

12 The wicked plot against the righteous
and gnash their teeth at them;
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he knows their day is coming.
14 The wicked draw the sword
and bend the bow
to bring down the poor and needy,
to slay those whose ways are upright.
15 But their swords will pierce their own hearts,
and their bows will be broken.
16 Better the little that the righteous have
than the wealth of many wicked;
17 for the power of the wicked will be broken,
but the Lord upholds the righteous.
18 The blameless spend their days under the Lord’s care,
and their inheritance will endure forever.
19 In times of disaster they will not wither;
in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.
20 But the wicked will perish:
Though the Lord’s enemies are like the flowers of the field,
they will be consumed, they will go up in smoke.

I found through working on the Peace Day LIVE concert that there are some religious leaders who are coming together to promote peace instead of war. People of all faiths. This is not a "one world church" but a group of leaders from different religions who agree upon working together for peace. Rabbi Awarham Soetendorp was recently presented with an award at the 2012 Juliet Hollister Awards. I found this through the site of his brother Rabbi Jacob Soetendorp's who worked with Peace Day LIVE.

Rev. Laura A. Neff ~ The Rainbow Minister Facebook & Twitter & Google+ & Blogspot & Multiply

Calvin Jennings ~ Elder Facebook & Twitter & Blogster & Multiply

Mary C. Michel-Lynch ~ Apostle/Shepherd Facebook & Blogspot & Multiply

Covenant of Hope Ministries

Main Site: http://www.covenantofhope.multiply.com

http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our Main Video Feed: Covenant_of_Hope

http://covenantofhopeministries.blogspot.com/

Our mission for Covenant of Hope Ministries and Poetic-Expressions is not to exploit fear, but to conquer it, and overcome all that is created through fear together as the rainbow in the darkness.

About Us/

Welcome, we are Covenant of Hope Ministries. We celebrate the light in the darkness. There are those of us who need a connection, one to another, whether it is someone we want to learn about, or someone we know and wish to keep in touch with. Ministry is all about sharing faith, hope, and unconditional love. This all would offer peace from the heart. It doesn't matter who you are, where you live, if you are traveling a lot, or otherwise, we serve Christians and Others who are disabled, displaced, disadvantaged and disenchanted in today's world. Licensed Ordained Minister, Rev. Laura A. Neff, Evangelist, Cal Jennings, Outreach Ministers including Rev. Lisa, Pastor Stephen, Apostle Eric, and many others. I am licensed to perform wedding ceremonies in the state of Georgia, USA. I was ordained in 2007 by Rev. Teresa Piercey-Gates. We established this ministry in October of 2008.

MESSENGER

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Monday, November 19, 2012

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Thursday, November 1, 2012