Welcome to the GMAF Newsletter! We pray it will encourage you in your Martial Arts and Outreach for Christ.
"In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight."
Jesus Christ
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."
The Apostle Paul
"O Lord, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches."
Psalm
My wife and I are reading a book together called "The Purpose Driven Life." Chapter Three asks what drives you; why do you do what you do. I immediately thought the word "gratitude." I'm so thankful to God for saving me as a young man more than 30 years ago. I was generally an ungrateful person, so gratitude did not come naturally. But when you face the fact you are lost and destined for eternal damnation and the Love of God reaches your black heart, saves you and sets your feet on solid, soul-saving ground, a sense of deep and lasting thankfulness fills your new heart and mind. That thankfulness, that gratitude becomes a driving force in your life. We think differently; we want differently; we hope differently; we dream differently; we plan differently; we treat others differently - all because of God's Love and Grace.
The Apostle Paul was driven by gratitude. His life stands as a testimony to how God can change the life of a sworn enemy and turn him into a thankful servant. Paul always shared God's Amazing Grace with anyone who would listen. Paul's life was based on gratitude. It drove him, kept him focused and on the path; led him by day and night; held him close when the world rejected him; gave him strength when his body and mind were pushed beyond imagination.
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." 1 Corinthians 15:12-17
Paul cared deeply for Christians everywhere. His love came directly from the Heart of God Who Loves with a Perfect and Eternal Love. The spiritual response to having God's Love fill your heart is to overflow to others for their spiritual good and the progress of the Gospel of God's Love and Grace.
"First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me." Romans 1:8-12
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful." Colossians 3:15
"Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." Romans 6:16-18
"For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin." Romans 7:18-25
"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds." Colossians 4:2
"For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God." 2 Corinthians 4:15
"Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." 2 Corinthians 9:15
"Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers." Ephesians 1:15-16
"Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God." Ephesians 5: 17-21
"Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear." Philippians 1:2-14
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
"We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth." Colossians 1:3-6
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6-7
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him." Colossians 3:15-17
"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak." Colossians 4:2-4
"We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake." 1 Thessalonians 1:2-5
"But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God. Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. 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." 1 Thessalonians 2:7-13
"Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith? Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you. And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints. 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13
"Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:15-24
"We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure" 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work." 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4
We have so much to be thankful for. God has saved us, given us hope and a new life in Jesus Christ. May God's Love and Grace and the gratitude we feel for His Unspeakable Gift drive us to serve Him with our mind, body and spirit forever.
"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15: 55-58
Every Sunday afternoon, after the morning service at their church, the Pastor and his 11-year-old son would go out into their town and hand out Gospel tracts. This particular Sunday afternoon, as it came time for the Pastor and his son to go to the streets with their tracts, it was very cold outside as well as pouring down rain. The boy bundled up in his warmest and driest clothes and said "Okay Dad, I'm ready."
His Pastor Dad asked, "Ready for what?
"Dad, it's time we gather our tracts together and go out."
Dad responds, "Son, it's very cold outside and it's pouring down rain."
The boy gives his Dad a surprised look, asking, "But Dad, aren't people still going to Hell, even though it's raining?"
Dad answers, "Son, I am not going out in this weather."
Despondently the boy asks, "Dad, can I go -- Please?"
His father hesitated for a moment then said, "Son, you can go. Here's the tracts; be careful son."
"Thanks, Dad!" And with that he was off and out into the rain. This11-year-old boy walked the streets of the town going door-to-door and handing everybody he met in the street a Gospel tract. After 2-hours of walking in the rain he was soaking bone-chilled wet and down to his very last tract. He stopped on a corner and looked for someone to hand a tract to but the streets were totally deserted.
Then he turned toward the first home he saw and started up the sidewalk to the front door and rang the door bell. He rang the bell -- but nobody answered. He rang it again and again bit still no one answered. He waited but still no answer. Finally this 11-year-old trooper turned to leave but something stopped him. Again, he turned to the door and rang the bell and knocked loudly on the door with his fist. He waited, something holding him there on the front porch. He rang again, and this time the door slowly opened. Standing in the doorway was a very sad looking elderly lady.
She softly asked, "What can I do for you, son?"
With radiant eyes and a smile that lit up her world, this little boy said, "Ma'am, I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but I just want to tell you that JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU! I came to give you my very last Gospel tract which will tell you all about Jesus and His great love." With that he handed her his last tract, and turned to leave.
She called to him as he departed, "Thank you, son! And God bless you!"
Well, the following Sunday morning in church, Pastor Dad was in the pulpit and as the service began he asked, "Does anybody have a testimony or want to say anything?"
Slowly, in the back row of the church, an elderly lady stood to her feet. As she began to speak, a look of glorious radiance came from her face. "None of you in this church know me. I've never been here before. You see, before last Sunday I was not a Christian. My husband has passed on, some time ago, leaving me totally alone in this world. Last Sunday, being a particularly cold and rainy day, it was even more so in my heart as I came to the end of the line where I no longer had any hope or will to live.
"So I took a rope and a chair and ascended the stairway into the attic of my home. I fastened the rope securely to a rafter in the roof then stood on the chair and fastened the other end of the rope around my neck. "Standing on that chair, so lonely and brokenhearted, I was about to leap off when suddenly the loud ringing of my doorbell downstairs startled me. I thought, 'I'll wait a minute, and whoever it is will go away.' "I waited and waited -- but the ringing doorbell seemed to get louder and more insistent and then the person ringing also started knocking loudly. I thought to myself again, 'Who on earth could this be?! Nobody ever rings my bell or comes to see me!' "I loosened the rope from my neck and started for the front door, all the while the bell rang louder and louder. When I opened the door and looked I could hardly believe my eyes! "There on my front porch was the most radiant and angelic little boy I had ever seen in my life! His smile! Oh, I could never describe it to you! And the words that came from his mouth caused my heart, that had long been dead, to leap to life as he exclaimed with cherub-like voice, 'Ma'am, I just came to tell you that JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU.' "Then he gave me this Gospel tract that I now hold in my hand. As the little angel disappeared back out, into the cold and rain, I closed my door and read slowly every word of this Gospel tract. Then I went up to my attic to get my rope and chair. I wouldn't be needing them any more.
"You see, I am now a happy
child of the KING, and since the address of your church was on
the back of this Gospel tract I have come here to personally say,
'Thank you to God's little angel who came just in the
nick of time, and by so doing, spared my soul from an eternity
in Hell.'"
There were now no dry eyes in the church. As shouts of praise and honor to the KING resounded off the very rafters of the building, Pastor Dad descended from the pulpit to the front pew where the little angel was seated. He took him in his arms and sobbed uncontrollably.
Probably no church has had
a more glorious moment and probably this Universe has never seen
a Papa that was more filled with love and honor for his son, except
for one: This Father, God, also allowed His Son, Jesus, to go
out into a cold and dark world. He received His Son back with
joy unspeakable, and as all of Heaven shouted praises and honor
to the King, the Father sat His beloved Son on a throne far above
all
principality and power and every name that is named. There may
be someone, reading this, who is also going through a dark, cold
and lonely time in your soul. You may be a Christian, for we are
not without
problems, or you may not yet know the King. Whatever the case,
and whatever the problem or situation you find yourself in, and
no matter how dark it may seem, I want you to know that I just
came to tell you,
"JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU!"
-- Author Unknown
To God All The Glory,
Craig Hamm
www.hammsmartialarts.com
His name is Bill. He has wild hair, wears a T-shirt with holes in it, jeans, and no shoes. This was literally his wardrobe for his entire four years of college. He is brilliant, kind of esoteric and very, very bright. He became a Christian while attending college. Across the street from the campus is a well-dressed, very conservative church. They want to develop a ministry to the students, but are not sure how to go about it. One day Bill decides to go there. He walks in with no shoes, jeans, his T-shirt, and wild hair. The service has already started and so Bill starts down the aisle looking for a seat. The church is completely packed and he can't find a seat. By now, people are really looking a bit uncomfortable, but no one says anything. Bill gets closer and closer and closer to the pulpit, and when he realizes there are no seats, he just squats down right on the carpet. (Although perfectly acceptable behavior at a college fellowship, trust me, this had never happened in this church before!) By now the people are really uptight, and the tension in the air is thick. About this time, the minister realizes that from way at the back of the church, a deacon is slowly making his way toward Bill. Now the deacon is in his eighties, and has silver-gray hair, and wears a three-piece suit. He is a godly man, very elegant, very dignified very courtly. He walks with a cane and, as he starts walking toward this boy, everyone is saying to themselves that you can't blame him for what he's going to do. How can you expect a man of his age and of his background to understand some college kid on the floor? It takes a long time for the man to reach the boy. The church is utterly silent except for the clicking of the man's cane. All eyes are focused on him. You can't even hear anyone breathing. The minister can't even preach the sermon until the deacon does what he has to do. And now they see this elderly man drop his cane on the floor. With great difficulty, he lowers himself and sits down next to Bill and worships with him so he won't be alone. Everyone chokes up with emotion. When the minister gains control, he says, "What I'm about to preach, you will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget." Be careful how you live. You may be the only 'Bible' some people will ever read". I asked the Lord to bless you as I prayed for you today,
To guide you and protect you as you go along your way. His love is always with you, His promises are true, and when we give Him all our cares, you know He will see us through.
(used with permission)
Medicines may save your life, but they canot heal - - only your body can heal itself (this is God's design). The innate intelligence God has placed within the body runs it and heals it according to His design and natural laws. We have to treat health much like spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6): know the enemy, cut off supply lines, defend, nourish, take the offense... Heredity plays an important role in how disease is manifested (cancer, diabetes, arthritis) but heredity does not dictate that you must get sick.
We cannot be healthy if our body's cells are living in, or are fed, junk. A good rule to remember is, we live and die at the cellular level. If our cells are swimming in "defilement" our bodymust make physiological adaptations that are absolutely necessary for immediate survival, if continued long-term this virtually guarantees disease later. Symptoms are the signals our body is adapting its function to survive the things we do to it. You can never treat enough symptoms to correct the cause of disease, one must get to the root cause. For example, germs are not the cause of disease -- low resistance to them is. Our body is not prorammed to develop disease nor does disease strike out of the blue, it develops over time according to natural laws as a result of prolonged violation of those laws.
Our body's cells produce an ash from the food we eat. This ash is the residual after all metabolism has taken place, like the ash left after a fire. This ash can be srongly acidic to strongly alkaline. This ash has a profound affect on our health and is often the root cause of our health problems. Most fluids in the body where cells operate (including our blood) are supposed to be slightly alkaline. If our food ash is acidic it must be neutralized (buffered) before it is eliminated or it would cause great bodily harm. It is eliminated through the kidneys and bowels. The neutralizing agents are alkaline minerals (sodium, calcium, magnesium, etc) and they come from so-called alkaline foods.
The root cause of most diseases relates to the lack of the needed neutralizing minerals, resulting in an acidic environment, which harms our cells and allows many bacteria/virus to flourish. We need a reserve of alkaline minerals and as this reserve goes, so goes our health. However, only organic minerals (from plants) will work to neutralize acid ash. Why, because organic minerals are weakly bonded to other atoms and our body can only use the weaker organic bonds -- inorganic bonds are too strong. Salt is inorganic so the sodium is useless as a neutralizing agent. The sodium in canned and processed foods will not work, it is inorganic salt. God's design is for the strong inorganic bonds to be broken by plants and incorporated in plant foods as the weaker organic bonds, we then can get the needed neutralizing minerals from the plants.
Principle: your body will do everything it can to keep you alive NOW - it is not planning for the future and does not necessarily work to keep you comfortable and happy, just alive.
Acid ash and Alkaline ash foods. In general, proteins leave an acid ash and fruits and veggies an alkaline ash.
Note: fruits like lemons are initialy very acidic, but they leave an alkaline ash, which is good. Meat, grain, dairy, many nuts/seeds leave an acid ash which has to be neutralized.
Beside food, our mind has a direct effect on acid production. The number one acid producer in our body is negative thinking. It is now known that the chemical processes that mediate emotion and mood occur not only within our brains, but also on the very surfact of every single cell. In this regard, Philippians 4:4-8 instructs us to think about positive things and to avoid negative thinking. This is one reason He wants us to have a transformed mind. Wow! God told us this, but we did not understand what the impacts of negative thinking were.
Proper Diet to assure an Alkaline Reserve. A good diet contains 75-80% alkaline ash forming foods (fruits and vegetables) and 20-25% acid ash forming foods (meat, grain, dairy, most nuts/seeds). Over 50% of the diet sould be raw fod (cooking destroys enzymes and organic bonds).
(Next month: Qualities of Foods)
Dr. Shober is a Doctor of Naturopathic Ministries, Master Herbalist and Director of Biblical Health Ministries. He is available for seminars, conferences and workshops.You can contact him at shover@chorus.net or 608-836-9579.
Training is the education of instinct. Anonymous
Let your spirit precede your movement. Anonymous
Before movement, there is intent. A strong intent will spontaneously drag movement behind it. The spirit of your movement is the strength of intent. Let each movement be done with full intent and strength of spirit. Commit fully to each movement with absolute intent and your spirit will precede you.
In the pursuit of learning, everyday something is gained. In the pursuit of the Way, everyday something is shed. Less and less is done until non-motion is achieved, then nothing is left undone. Lao Tzu
So often, I have moved too often. So often, I have made useless and unnecessary moves. Each movement brings the possibility of error and loss. Less is more.
It is said, "first the mind, then the body." If the abdomen relaxes, breath sinks deep, into the bones. If the spirit is relaxed, the body is calm. It is always in the mind. Being able to breathe leads to agility. The softest will become the strongest. Chang San-feng
Storing up energy is like drawing a bow. Relax completely, sink, release, aim in one direction. Chang San-feng
When moving, there is no place that does not move. When being still, there is no place that is not still. If others are still, I am still. If others move, I move first. Chang San-feng
Let the postures be without breaks or holes, hollows or projections, or discontinuities or continuities of form. Chang San-feng
Motion should be rooted in the feet, released through the legs, controlled by the waist, and manifest through the fingers. Chang San-feng
The feet, legs, and waist must act simultaneously, so that while stepping forward or back the timing and position are correct. Chang San-feng
By alternating the force of pulling and pushing, the root is severed and the object is quickly toppled. Chang San-feng
The purpose of any style or technique is to transcend what is being practiced without premeditation. An artist practices his music to strive to actually forget the notes, rules, theories, and passages and transcend all things he has learned. Then the music flows from his instrument, and he becomes the music. It pours from us, as Segar says, "Like sweat from our bodies."
The martial artist trains for decades in order to forget all training as he moves. Move as he may, he will manifest the ancient ways. Without thought, analysis, or intention, he will respond as a mirror to the image laid on him. There can be no thought of technique or posture. The reaction and response must simply happen. Music, art, and living must flow from us spontaneously. Only with years of training do we experience moments of complete freedom of technique without thought.
Training is the key to this art. Repetition is the key to training. Our journey through training changes us. In training, we force ourselves onward. We sharpen and harden our will as we push toward the unattainable goals of perfection of form and ultimate speed. In this state of never-ending dissatisfaction, we see all imperfections of skill and limitations of speed. As we push ourselves harder and harder, we reach a point of frustration as we hit the wall of our abilities. Frustration is good. It causes us to reach beyond our physical limitations and draw on strengths that would otherwise remain untapped. What results is a slow integration of body, mind, and spirit. This integration is the true purpose of training.
In this uncertain world, ours should be the path of discipline. Hiba Yoshimasa 1350-1410
It is not wise to rush about.
Controlling the breath causes strain. It takes too much energy
and leads to exhaustion. This is not the Way. It is contrary to
the Way and will not last long. Lao Tzu
Even if you have a partner who is vicious and determined to injure
you, consider yourself fortunate. To know yourself, to know the
opponent, to understand the relationship between the two: these
are the true objectives of training. Shigeru Egami 1976
Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle. Sun Tzu
Simple practice is of minimal benefit. A fast kick or powerful punch is not the goal. Improvement to the point of proficiency is only the first step. This is why the achievement of the Black Belt is considered the beginning of the journey, not the goal, and certainly not the end.
I recommend you take care of the minutes, for the hours will take care of themselves. Lord Chesterfield
The Shodan, 1st Dan, or 1st Degree Black Belt is recognized as one who has mastered the basic techniques of the martial art he has studied and has taken that first step toward a new beginning. Now a new path is illuminated toward a lifetime of knowledge. One must never stop learning, even until death. Obtaining the 1st Dan does not mean one has reached the end of the journey. It means he has proven himself worthy to be accepted as a student of the arts.
One should exert himself in martial arts absolutely. There are no weak soldiers under a strong general. Takeda Nobushige 1525 1561
As we train in our field, our
sport, or our art, we must push ourselves to the outer limits
of our abilities and then beyond. We must continue to beat against
the walls and boundaries of our limitations until our frustrations
set us free. Concentration, focus of will, full emotional contentment,
and all of our strength mix together to form a force previously
unattainable.
There is no deadlier weapon than the will! The sharpest sword
is not equal to it. There is no robber so dangerous as nature.
Yet, it is not nature that does the damage: it is man's own will!
Chuang Tzu Circa 300 B.C.
Beginning in the training of one's body, practice continues with the training of one's spirit. Finally one realizes that the body and spirit are not two but one. This is true practice. Shigeru Egami 1976
Turning your attention to anything
should be tantamount to turning a spotlight on it. Your mind should
focus on it, exposing all its aspects. Use uncontrollable change
to your advantage.
Follow the opponent and not yourself. Li I-yu
Be mindful. Whatever part of the body is touched, the mind should go. Li I-yu
Our actions, motions, and techniques must be practiced to the point of being reflexive. Thought takes time and distracts the mind. Thought confuses the calm. Thought causes distraction. Distraction causes delay. Delay causes death.
A frog to a caterpillar said, "Pray, which legs comes after which?" This worked his mind to such a pitch; he lay distracted in a ditch considering how to run. Japanese proverb
A fox and a cat met in the woods one day. The cat had been waiting for a chance to say, "I envy your mind, your skill, and cunning. So many tricks you have to my climbing or running." As the dogs closed in, the cat said farewell. She climbed the tree and wished the fox well. The fox was attempting to show off her skills. To give the cat a chill, a thrill, and was trying to decide which trick to do, but was still undecided as the dogs tore her in two. James Hiner
Seek to see and understand the philosophy behind the techniques in your life. Seek to apply the philosophy more deeply and completely in your soul. Do something even if could be wrong do something.
The most important thing about goals is having one. Geoffrey F. Abert
One of the most important things we as instructors or teachers need to communicate to our students is the difference between earning a Black Belt and being a Black Belt. An instructor must communicate to the student that class will require his full, undivided attention, as well as his maximum energy level and focus. We are teachers, not private trainers or professional counters. We do not exist to assure each Black Belt candidate receives a good workout. We are there to illuminate the Way for them. We are not there to push them to be more committed about the Black Belt. We exist to shine the light over our shoulder; to illuminate the path we have taken. The student must make the journey alone. The student who must be pushed to earn a Black Belt should not receive one. A journey of 1,000 miles begins with the first step, but the student must continue the journey on his own.
You cannot push anyone up the ladder unless he is willing to climb a little. Andrew Carnegie
We must continuously remind the student of the doors of opportunity that swing on small hinges. To become a Black Belt requires one to live the martial way. The result of becoming a Black Belt should be an embodiment of the martial arts within the student, allowing life to be lived abundantly. He will not have just taken martial arts. The arts will have taken him.
It is strongly recommend that instructors require students to keep a journal of their experiences and activities. Those who know how to write and don't write are no better than those who don't know how to write at all. Have them practice the art of writing.
The only thing worse than a man that cannot read and write is a man that can and won't. Bruce Lee
Students need to learn to practice by themselves. The student who does not practice on his own time isn't ready to be a Black Belt. Students must be shown how to let go of the past. One must always remember the past does not equal the future and the way you are "being" is the result of the way you have chosen to be. If habits are learned, they can also be unlearned. Nothing is hopeless. The future Black Belts should be encouraged not to waste their emotional energy on trivia. They must put their goals ahead of their moods. The man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd.
If you want to succeed, you should strike out on new paths rather than travel the worn paths of accepted success. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.
Eagles don't flock. You have to find them one at a time. H Ross Perot
I will have no man work for me who has not the capacity to become a partner. J.C. Penney
Mr. Penney succinctly defines the way we should view our students: Future partners...future servants in the ministry.. future Black Belts.
Encounter
The Warrior's Heart
<http://www.1stbooks.com/bookview/18526>
By Joseph Lumpkin and Daryl Covington
IS NOW OUT IN PAPERBACK!
Available formats for this book:
Paperback (6x9) $ 16.50
Electronic
Book $ 5.95
We would love to hear from you about any topic relating to Christianity and the martial arts. Please send your thoughts and articles for publication to mmcgee@gmaf.org.
1. A black belt must exhibit high personal moral standards.
2. Black belts must be able to concentrate, even in the midst of adversity.
3. Black belts must have control over anger and negative emotions. They develop intense levels of self control and discipline in all areas of life.
4. Black belts must be respectful and courteous.
5. Black belts do what they are supposed to do on time. Anyone can start a project. Black belts fininsh the task.
6. Black belts show strong leadership qualities. Leadership training is extremely important in the martial arts. The Christian black belt must show the qualities of a biblical leader.
7. Black belts give back to the martial arts, their church, and their community through service.
8. Students should realize they are working toward the black belt the moment they enroll in class. Class requires complete focus and undivided attention. The instructor is not there to make sure you earn your Black Belt. That commitment must come from within.
9. Black Belts enjoy practice and make it a priority. They faithfully attend all classes and compete in all events they are asked to compete in.
10. Black Belts are faithful to writing and keeping a journal of experiences.
11.There is a difference in earning a black belt and achieving the goal of becoming a black belt. To earn a belt, a student simply completes the minimum requriements for the belt rank. After this, he has a belt to wear. To achieve the goal of becoming a Black Belt, the student must train with full intensity and commit him / herself to achieving the excellence necessary to "be" a Black Belt, not just "get" a black belt.
12. Black Belts work as hard on their own as they do in class.
13.The Black Belt exam is a mirror of all your training.
14.Black belts must realize "If every man would help his neighbor, then no man would be without help --Bruce Lee.
15.Black belts realize where "the Way leads them: In the maze of pathways In the labyrinth of life. We must find the straight and narrow. The way that leads to Christ. All other roads are useless. The beginning of God's highway Is the cross." - by B. Eisenberg
(used by permission)
I was raised in a staunch Southern Baptist home and during my 30 years of training, I've heard the same negative opinions and attitudes that have concerned you. When I started Judo as a teen, I was warned that martial arts required bowing to false idols. Not true. When I expanded my training to Jujitsu and Aikido, I was told that they would require meditation which opened the door to a weakening of my faith and attacks on the spirit. Also not true. Meditation turned out to be breathing exercises which allowed me to focus my energy on all aspects of life, not just the martial arts. There are a few (very few, in my experience) schools and instructors that try to interject an element of mysticism or a mishmash of zen beliefs but while these schools may briefly flourish, they all eventually wither on the vine.
Ki is not magic. It is a heightened awareness of balance and timing combined with proper breathing. Put these together with years of training and you'll be able to achieve superior technique. I've never met a Japanese who proclaimed ki to be anything spiritual or even particularly special, just a product of practicing basics for years on end. No one looks at a professional athlete and thinks that his ability comes from anything but a natural God given physical talent and the willingness to sweat and bleed until he makes the game look easy. It is the same with martial artist. When ever someone expresses appreciation for some technique I demonstrate, my response tends to be, "Any 5 year old can do it....with 20 years of practice."
The willfully ignorant often condemn that of which they have no personal experience or knowledge. If half the energy that was expended against innocent endeavors would be spent on the sick and needy, we'd be living in a paradise on earth. For every person pointing a finger at the martial arts as ungodly or unchristian, there are a thousand martial artists and instructors living christian lives and working to help and aid those around them. My sensei was capable of performing many of the ki demonstrations you've probably heard of and I've never met a better, more Christian soul. I'm a better man for having trained with him for 20 years as are the thousands of lives he touched during the 40 years he taught.
Belief and faith are deeply personal issues. My training has been as a warrior, not a fighter. I train to combat evil and to protect not only myself, but my loved ones and those around me. As hokey as that sounds, it's how I truly view my involvement with martial arts. My spirit is strong because I devote my physical energies, thought and will to a pure cause and I'm able to be a better husband, worker, student and teacher because of that focus. Any activity can be spiritual whether it's martial arts, knitting or golf. The importance is not in the activity, it's in the intent of the participant. Study aikido, take up biking or collect stamps...doesn't matter. What matters most is the destination, not the journey.
"And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible." 1 Cor. 9:25
I was once asked by a child
why I wore a black belt with a red and white stripe with my uniform.
I replied that it was a master's belt. Often different martial
arts styles use red stripes on black, red and white, red,
or red and black designs on the belts to indicate certain mastery
levels of the black belt. These belts could be compared with the
stripes, bars, or stars, used on military uniforms. But the belt
is merely an outward symbol reflecting many years of hard training,
discipline, and accomplishments. It is an outward mark of position
intended to reflect an inward quality, or level, of perfection
- perfection as a martial artist - where the art is a part of
the individual. As a Christian we often wear an outward "belt",
or symbol, of our faith. It may be very "external",
such as a cross, a fish, a Bible, a suit and tie, or a T-shirt
with a Bible verse, etc. It may go beyond that to regular church
attendance, Bible knowledge, and even visitation and witnessing.
But all of us have been "marked", or sealed, by the
Holy Spirit, if we have truly believed (see Ephesians 1:13). This
gives us something deeper, something inside, which is a part of
us. We have been imparted a new nature, created to reflect Christ
Himself(2 Cor. 5:17; Col. 3:10). As Christians we have the "Mark"
of the Master(Christ) in us. Jesus dwells in us through the Holy
Spirit(1 Cor. 6:19). And the fruit of the Spirit "is love,
joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness,
temperance" ( Gal 5:22,23). We are commanded to "walk
in the Spirit"(Gal 5:16), and "by the Spirit" to
put "to death the deeds of the body"(Rom. 8:13). This
requires decision and discipline. The more we submit to the Lord(decision)
and walk closely with Him(discipline), the more we will begin
to reflect His character, and to experience His life through the
fruit of the Spirit. It will not be that we have "mastered"
the Christian walk, but that Christ will have mastered us. The
"Mark of the Master" will be evident upon our lives
because we belong to Him and He is lives in us and through us.
With the apostle Paul we will recognize that it is no longer we
who live, but that Christ lives in us (Gal 2:20). Is it evident
that Jesus is your Master? Does His "Mark", or the fruit
of His Spirit, show through in your life?
- Phil Lewis
"Philip Lewis"
Before U were thought of or time had begun, God even stuck U in the name of His Son. And each time U pray, you'll see it's true You can't spell out JesUs and not include U.
You're a pretty big part of His wonderful name, For U, He was born; that's why He came. And His great love for U is the reason He died. It even takes U to spell crUcified.
Isn't it thrilling and splendidly grand He rose from the dead, with U in His plan. The stones split away, the gold trUmpet blew, and this word resUrrection is spelled with a U.
When JesUs left earth at His upward ascension, He felt there was one thing He just had to mention. Go into the world and tell them it's true That I love them all - Just like I love U.
So many great people are spelled with a U, Don't they have a right to know JesUs too? It all depends now on what U will do, He'd like them to know But it all starts with U.
Humility: Knowing one's place amongst mankind. For the martial
artist, the first and most important quality is that of humility.
Humility at its simplest is freedom from pride and arrogance.
Without humility, growth, learning and development of a community
spirit are hampered. At higher levels, humility is choosing to
make one's needs and desires secondary to the training at hand
and the needs of the larger community (your partner, your dojo,
your martial art and your family). Humility enables us to grow
as a community.
Awareness: Conscious cognizance of one's surroundings. For the martial artist, awareness comes in the form of the workings of the human body; technical excellence; the effects of one's actions upon others; the developmental needs of oneself and others; the intent of those around us; our environment and our situation, and consequently; opportunities for growth as an individual and a community. Without humility, there can be no true awareness of self or others. With awareness comes a zest for life, because one cannot help but see the opportunities in any situation.
Rectitude: A sense of, and strict adherence to, the correct. A martial artist should always seek the truth and discover what is correct and do what is right. There should be a sense of correctness in body, mind, spirit, action, training and technique. Rectitude encompasses the more specific qualities of honor, and diligence. An appropriate sense of rectitude is dependant upon both humility and awareness.
Mission: A goal or plan of
action. As a martial artist, one should always have a view to
the task at hand. A goal is a fulcrum without which neither movement
nor growth can occur. There should be a specific goal for each
action, each training session, each rank, and each stage of development
in life.
Ministration - A martial artist is, at all times an envoy. The
martial artist has a calling much like that of a guide, and an
errand to faithfully discharge. As martial artists we pass on
all that we are and all that we learn. We must choose that behavior
and knowledge which is appropriate to discharge to others and
then give, give, give.
Order: Organization of mind, self, action; conformity to standards and rules. A martial artist is governed by order and discipline. We bow, we sit properly, and we show respect to each other and our instructors. This, in and of itself, is not enough. We must also learn to discipline our minds, our bodies and our spirits. Through the self-discipline and self-confidence that rectitude and order bring, we develop indomitable spirits. As we achieve self-discipline we re-organize ourselves according to our ideal self-image and open the door to true self-respect and self-esteem.
Rank in society - We bear the rank we wear, and if we give anything less at any time in our daily lives, then we are not fulfilling our mission. Others in our ranks look to us for direction and assistance, we owe them our respect, attention to duty and our very best performance. The external community looks to us as representatives of a brotherhood of martial artists and therefore our behavior as individuals reflects upon the whole community. A martial artist who does not live up to his rank both inside and outside the dojo is a detriment to all.
Brotherhood - We are a brotherhood of martial artists and have a responsibility to the order, each other and our martial community. A martial artist's individual code of conduct is a measure of how responsible he feels to the brotherhood. The greater the debt of honor, the greater the conduct should be.
Yielding : Bending, being pliant under external stresses, giving precedence. A true sense of humility, awareness, rectitude, mission and order give the martial artist a sense of perspective in life. There are times to fight and times in which giving way and going forward is the positive action to take. When we achieve a state of yielding to our own growth, we have conquered our greatest enemies: our own inadequacies and weaknesses.
Making an offering - A martial artist offers his inadequacies before the world and if he is humble and aware, he is given growth in return. A martial artist offers strength of character and is given respect and trust in return. A martial artist offers what he has learned, and in return learns from both his students and instructors.
Producing results - Apart from the obvious increase in skill, the final outcome of the diligent martial artist who perseveres is grace, efficiency, a community of well-being, an increased sense of self worth and a tendency toward a life of Harmony.
The Shinsei
Hapkido Winter Camp will be help in the mountains of West Virginia
on November 7th.
This place is beautiful! Adam Bradford has reserved the biggest
hall that they have, and all of the resorts 20 some rooms. The
full price of the rooms at the resort, this is with tax included
(sales+hotel/motel tax) comes to, $64.31 a night. That total is
for suites and regular rooms both that weekend.
Contact Adam Bradford at bigsifu@yahoo.com
Karate for Christ now owns its church / headquarters. The deal was signed on Thursady and is now official. The little church of 1440 sq. ft. was abandoned 2 years ago. It needs some work but it will serve us well. Please plan on attending our homecoming workout and worship on April 3 2004 to fellowship and thank God for what he has done throughout the world for Karate for Christ.
Daryl Covington will be traveling through several states and will be available for seminars. Here is his schedule.
Seminar Tour:
November the 8th I will be with Adam Bradford in WV doing a seminar.
I will be traveling through Tennesee, Kentucky, and maybe VA,
and then to WV to get there. Anyone interested in hosting a Shinsei
seminar in those areas on the 6th or 7th can contact me.
Leaving from
there, I will be heading to Indianapolis, Indiana to do a seminar
with Chad Followel, and up to Cold Water Michigan to teach for
Dan Severn, 3 time UFC Champion.
The seminar in Indianapolis will be on Nov 11th, from 4 - 8 pm.
It is in a commercial school, so there will be a charge, but a
discount will be available for KFCI members.
I will be traveling through Indiana, Southern Michigan, KY, and
TN coming back from there. ANyone interested in hosting a Shinsei
seminar around those times in those areas can contact me as well.
email: drdarylrcovington@yahoo.com
Phone: 662-836-5668
It looks like April 3rd and 4th of 2004 are going to be the dates for our first Karate for Christ homecoming. Everyone start planning for this date to meet, worship and workout in Alabama. Hotels are good and cheap in Oneonta, AL, about 7 miles from the camp in Blountsville.
A note to let all know that the Dogwood Ministries Fall camp is scheduled for Nov. 7,8, and 9th at the Holiday Lake 4-H camp. Plan to join us for a Christian martial art camp. The physical seminar will be focused on Ryukyu Hon Kenpo Kobujuitsu. The Christian living part will be on spiritual warfare. More info coming soon.
BLACK HAWKS MARTIAL ARTS MANAGEMENT NETWORK / ASSOCIATION IN CONNECTION WITH NATIONAL INTER-SCHOOL MARTIAL ARTS YOUTH TRAINING PROGRAMME
Address: Lp
7 Grass Trace , Curepe Trinidad West Indies
1(868) 752-7723, 1(868) 774-1161
E-mail black-hawks @trini.com
We greet you
in the name that is above all names which is our Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ.
The above mentioned association once again invites you/ your students
and supporters to participate in our eighth (8th) anniversary
National Inter-School Martial Arts Youth Championship at the Jean
Pierre Sporting Complex, Port Of Spain, Trinidad West Indies.
DATE: Sunday
2nd November,2003
TIME: 10:00am sharp
All ages and ranks are invited.
Final registration for all participants will take place at the venue from 7:30am to 9:30am. Championship officially starts at 10:00am.
LOCAL COMPETITORS-
25 US all ranks and all divisions.
FOREIGN COMPETITORS-25 US all ranks and all divisions.
Trophies will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place winners and certificates will be awarded to all participants in all divisions.
For all your accommodation arrangements, kindly call Professor Christopher Francis, Championship Director at the above phone and e-mail address.
Each student who pre-registers before the 10th October, 2003 is entitled to a discount of US$5.00.
DIVISIONS
Kata, Kumite, Weapon Kata and Self-Defense.
THIS CHAMPIONSHIP IS OPEN TO ALL RANKS, STYLE AND SYSTEMS.
OPENING CEREMONY 10:00AM SHARP.
SPECIALLY INVITED GUESTS
His Excellency the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
The Honourable Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago
The Minister of Education
The Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs
The Minister of Works and Transport
The Attorney General and other Government Officials
Chief Arbitrator Grand Master Mark Barlow Head of the Akayama Ryu Ju-Jitsu Association representing Karate for Christ, plus five other Grand Masters from the U.S.A.
INVITED COUNTRIES
United States
Canada
Guyana Barbados
St. Lucia England
Grenada Cayman Island
Antigua Dominica
Venezuela Suriname
And all Karate For Christ members from around the world.
HOST COUNTRY
Trinidad and Tobago
It would be
a honour and privilege for your school to join us at this Martial
Arts event.
We wish you God's grace and peace.
REMEMBER MARTIAL ARTS IS JUST NOT A SPORT BUT AN EDUCATION.
Bible and Karate Retreat and seminar
CHRISTIAN SPIRITUAL WARFARE
NOV. 7-9 $40 EARLY REGISTRATION $50 AT DOOR
RYUKYU HON KENPO KOBUJUITSU SEMINAR
FELLOWSHIP WITH OTHER ARTISTS
TRAIN IN THE ADVANCED TECHNIQUES OF OKINAWA KARATE AND WEAPONS
INTERNATIONAL PENTECOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH
DOGWOOD MINISTRIES
NEW BEGINNINGS
TREE OF LIFE
PRESENTS:
Sensei John "Kuma" Snyder, 9th dan RHKKF
Pastor Bob Parada, IPHC Redemption conference Youth Pastor
Pastor Jimmy Pentecost, Evangilist and Youth Pastor for Tree of Life Ministries
Sensei Ed Hershman, 6th dan RHKKF and Pastor IPHC
other RHKKF black belts and IPHC leaders
activities: music, games, canoeing karate,
Okinawa weapons
exciting insights into the Word of GOD!
Drama seminar! human video with Eric McBride
Lessons on Spiritual Warfare, music, youth activities, Kareoke, camp fire,
Canoe tour (extra charge of $5)
APPOMATTOX VA 4-H CENTER, HOLIDAY LAKE. E-MAIL edhershman@att.net
434-352-9402 PROCEEDS TO JAPAN AND OKINAWA MISSIONS
TWO NIGHTS LODGING AND FOUR MEALS INCLUDED
Everyone had a great time at the TN. seminar. Craig tells me there were about 70 people training over the 2 day period. The states of TN, AL, FL, and MS were all represented. We met several members for the first time and there was a wonderful spirit at the camp. A Special thanks to all of the teachers and to the NamiDo group for doing the first open camp with us.
Here is a word from Criag Hamm, the host of the camp.
Good Morning To All!
I pray that everyone made it back home to there families safely. I would like to give thanks and gratitude to each and everyone of you for the Super job of instructing this weekend and taking time out to come up and teach. The seminar would not have been a success with out eachand everyone of you there. We had a great turn out and on final count we ended up total of about 75 at the seminar. I look forward to seeing each and everyone again soon. If I can do anything for anyone please let me know. May God Bless Each and everyone of you and your family.
To God All The Glory,
Craig Hamm
www.hammsmartialarts.com
From Mike Lewis:
"Take
Courage!"
(Mark 6:49-50)
Hurricane Isabel rolled through the Mid-Atlantic region, striking fear, in hearts of the people, while leaving behind destruction, death, and hopelessness, in her wake of turmoil.
Isabel is said to have been, "The worst storm the region has seen - since 1933". I, for one, have never seen such gloom on the faces of people as they slowly came out of their homes to survey any damage left by Isabel, and too, as the reports of destruction and death, came over the air-ways.
But I'm reminded of what God said to Moses in (Exodus 3:14), "I AM WHO I AM!" In so, that Moses, should take courage in Him and be not afraid.
In the middle of our storms and terror, Jesus passes close by, just waiting for us to acknowledge our fear and need, so that he can join us in our worst nightmares and help us through. Incredibly, Jesus' words here are literally, "Take courage! I Am."
God revealed
himself to Moses in (Exodus 3) as I Am, reminding Moses, that
he heard the cry of the Israelites and had seen their hardship
and was now coming down to help them. Jesus does the same for
us - today!
There is nothing than can stand in the way of Jesus. No enemy
has the power -- he simply casts out the demons. No teacher or
skeptic can stump him with a question. No disease can withstand
his call for healing. Not even nature can baffle or threaten him.
He is not just a man. He is God's Son. He is Immanuel, God with us. But until we can fully understand who he is, we can be secure that he will care for us and bring us to his home! Fear is not just being troubled with circumstances; its also uncertainty about what will ultimately happen to us.
Jesus shows us that our safety, our destiny, is under his command and nothing can withstand his grace offered to bless us.
Thank you, Heavenly Father, for not only being there, but being close by during the storm -- you are always waiting to respond to my cry of distress and fear. Forgive me for not inviting you and the Lord Jesus daily into a more active role in my life. I know you are near, so I ask that you not only make your presence known, but that you will gently confront me when I push you to the periphery of my daily life.
In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
God bless,
- Sensei Mike
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Let me share
about the good work God is continuing to do in Moldova. At 1st
of September we started a new group of Precept Bible Institute
of Moldova and there came 25 students. Most of them are coming
from the camps and this is one of the good results of the camps.
Now, they are studying Gospel of John and 2 Timothy and based
on this books principles of evangelism and discipleship. By the
end of this week
they will finish the session and after the final exam will go
to start groups and evangelize people by teaching Gospel of John.
In the same
day, on 1st of September, David, our son, started to study in
the school. He is so glad for this and every day is eager to learn
more and more in order to be a good missionary and teacher when
will
go to the mission field.
On 7th of September
we had another big event. There were baptized 4 of our disciples
and one of them is Nastica, our daughter. She told her testimony
in the church and everybody told their testimonies and it was
so impressing for the people. Among those who were baptized, are
2 of my aunts: mother of Sergiu Filat and mother of Nicolae Sili.
Another lady is Ekaterina, mother of Alexei Tentiuc, another
Taekwon-Do disciple and instructor. My uncle Alexandru, accepted
Jesus at the English camp where he came to visit us and now he
is ready to be baptized. He is working in Siberia and he read
the Bible four times before he accepted Jesus. We are so glad
for him. I am so glad for many relatives who came to this baptism
and all of the heard the Gospel. Now, we pray that more of them
will come to know Jesus as their Savior. Angela, my sister in
law, after accepting Jesus, is so happy and every time brings
some of her friends unbelievers to the church. At the baptism
she invited two of them. She is so eager to study more and more
from the Bible. Each evening is coming late from her work and
after this ask Nastica, my wife and her sister, to teach her the
Bible.
God is giving us some other opportunities and people to preach the Gospel through sports. Radu Blendarenco, is a soccer player from the village I was born, Lapusna, and he is now playing for Moldova State University. He accepted Jesus at one of the Taekwon-Do camps and now, he is eager to start doing missions on the same model we are doing with Taekwon-Do, but using Soccer and he will start also in Lapusna. In order to start this we need at least 40 balls, Bibles and bible study books for all the students. The price for one ball is $10, for one Bible - $5 and for one Bible study book - $3.
Igor Untila, is a professional boxer and he went two year ago to Spain to fight there for a professional club. When I was in Portugal, I started there a bible study group for the Moldovians who are working there. After I left Igor came to visit one of his friends there and he accepted Jesus. For this summer he came and was at the camps. Now, he is studying the session of the Bible Institute and after this is going to start an ministry in order to do evangelism through teaching box. We pray for finances in order to buy 20 pairs of gloves, 2 trainig bags and 20 head protectors and start this ministry.
I am now in the plane going to meet my teachers Mia and Costel Oglice in Moscow and from there will go to Central Asia. Nastica, my wife, will start the next week to teach the session "How to handle a difficult subject in the Bible" at the Institute in Chisinau.
Thank you for praying for us and the ministry God is doing in Moldova and the countries He is sending us.
May God bless you!
With love in Christ,
Vasile Filat
Many GMAF members have told us their favorite part of the monthly newsletter is Fellowship News. It's wonderful to see Christian martial artists praying for each other across the United States and around the world. No distance is too far for Christians. The instant we pray, God hears. We impact the lives of our brothers and sisters positively through our prayers. God answers prayer. It is pleasing to Him. Thank you for caring so much for each other!
Here are some of the notes of prayer and praise we received at GMAF the past two months.
I have a prayer
request and a praise report. MY praise report is that I want to
thank all Karate
for Christ members for praying for the safety of my brother Nathan
while he was in the recent war.
I recently had dinner with him, and heard many of the tells he
had to tell. He was in the mouth of danger, in danger of death
at all times, but your prayers kept him safe. Thank you all.
My prayer request is about two drug users and pushers that recently moved in next door. There is constant traffic going on over there, and lots of bad people going in and out. We need deliverance. Please pray that God will move them out, and soon. It is very stressful. Thank you all.
Fifth Estate Publishing is pushing forward. We are looking for Christian authors. Books on any subject matter are welcome (family, Christian, Poetry, History, martial arts...)
If you have
been wanting to write a book or publish the one you have written
please contact Joyce Dujardin at 205-237-1738.
http://www.fifth-estate.net/index.htm
I'm wondering if there are any Michigan members who would be interested in beginning to hold an annual state wide meeting/conference for fellowship, etc? I would be more than willing to help to organize such an endeavor. Please contact me if this is of interest to you.
Rev. Steven
H. Miller
P.O. Box 3085
Holland, MI 49422
616-796-9951
It has been
an interesting year so far. We have had 20 people accept the Lord
in our school. It is wonderful how it all works out in God's timing.
We moved here from Korea three years ago with NOTHING. We now
have a great school and lots of students. God is continually blessing
us, It is overwhelming sometimes.
The funny thing is, I was Buddhist when I was young and my Instructor
told me he would not issue me teaching certificates unless I went
to church. I did and accepted Christ. Our Pastor practices with
us at the HQ in Korea. Our whole federation is full of Christian
instructors. WOW!
Here is the link, if you guys are ever in Ft. Lauderdale, come
in. www.hapkiyoosool.com
Have a blessed day.
In Him,
Jeff Allen
Chief Instructor
www.hapkiyoosool.com
Encounter The Warrior's Heart
By Joseph Lumpkin and Daryl Covington
IS NOW OUT IN PAPERBACK!
Available formats for this book:
Paperback (6x9) $ 16.50
Electronic Book $ 5.95
Support the ministry and Purchase it at:
http://www.1stbooks.com/bookview/18526 <http://www.1stbooks.com/bookview/18526
Looking for
other martial artists that are teaching folks with disabilities.
In my Adaptive Taekwondo class at the Chattanooga City Parks and
Rec, I have one in a wheel chair, several with downs syndrome,
one autistic, and one blind student starting tonight.
Let's share resources, thoughts, ideas, frustrations, victories,
blessing, etc. as we beat our swords into plowshares.
Donnie Bryson
dbryson14@comcast.net
On Saturday October 4, 2003, members from the Sherwood Karate Club competed in the Choong Sil TaeKwonDo Regional Tournament held at Parker Mathis school in Valdosta Georgia. Here are the results.
Meredith Crowder
2nd forms, 2nd sparring
Anthony Crowder 1st forms, 1st drills, 3rd sparring
Layne Jeffcoat 1st sparring
Barbara Ann Barbre 2nd forms, 2nd sparring
Nathan Crowder 3rd forms, 3rd sparring
Chris Raulerson 1st forms, 3rd sparring
Thanks,
Mike Lee
Sherwood Karate Club
www.sherwoodkarate.com
Greetings from
Hartswater in South-Africa. The seasons are turning in summer
is with us and it is already very hot in our town. All is well
with us and we are still serving the King of Kings Jesus Christ.
It is going well with my church and it is keeping me very busy
and occupied. We bought land to build a new church and we are
working hard. With the karate it is also going well. My dojo is
situated in a large gym in town but Hartswater is a very small
town and the dojo is still small. We only have 25 members all
in all.
The potential is far greater but I have not advertised lately
because of my busy program with the church. But we are training
hard and it is our plan to conduct demonstrations at the local
schools to attract new members. But when we do that we want to
start with Hapkido. My most senior student is a born again gentleman
1 st kyu, age 54. The two of us are training hard to get the Hapkido
syllabus under the knee. We ordered new judo suits and we had
to buy new judo mats for the groundwork (grappling and throws)
as well. That cost us a lot of money.
Thank you for all the karate for Christ mail and it is a privilege
to be a part of your organization.
God bless.
Andre' Van Niekerk
Just wanted
to update you on the happenings at Karate for Christ in San Jacinto,
CA. We have been operating now for a little over a year as a ministry
of our sponsor church, San Jacinto Assembly of God, currently
run two classes with a total enrollment of 85 and now have a demo
team of 29. We have performed four times this month, twice at
the Southern California Fair and will perform once again at our
church's Hallelujah celebration on October 31 (an alternative
to Halloween)...The interesting thing about our demo team is that
only 12 of the members are also members of San Jacinto Assembly...the
rest come from other churches or our inner city area. Some of
the young people have been attending our church's extreme youth
services on Wednesday nights lately, and I am a firm believer
that the youth will draw their parents back to God. Our demo team
operates from the scriptures in Philippians 3:16...I will press
on towards the prize of the upward call of Jesus Christ.
God Bless,
Megan Cope
Karate for Christ, San Jacinto Assembly
(I know you will join us in
praying for each of these Christian martial artists, their families
and ministries.)
We welcome these new members to Grace Martial Arts Fellowship.
Sensei Logan Lee... Head Instructor of Lee's Kenpo Karate Academy. Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas. www.leeskarate.com / leeskarate@hotmail.com / 870-761-0861. Teaches American Free-style Kenpo, Tai Chi, and Kickboxing.
David
Tolley...black
belt in American Kenpo Karate. Plans to open up a Christian Karate
School in Oldsmar, Florida. Would appreciate ideas for the school
from GMAF members.
You'll find every GMAF newsletter at http://www.gmaf.org/gmaf_newsletters.html . These newsletters are a gold mine of information about Christianity and the Martial Arts.
Please send us a picture and information about your martial arts ministry and we'll feature your group in an upcoming newsletter.
We'd like to hear from you! Let us know what you do in your martial arts ministry that you think is special and we'll share it with the Fellowship. Many members write us each month asking for guidance in developing and expanding their martial arts ministries. Please send your ideas to mmcgee@gmaf.org .
We appreciate your Fellowship in the Gospel of the Grace of God. We are praying for you and your opportunities to serve Christ. Please let us know about ways GMAF can help you in your service. If you know of anyone who might be interested in receiving this monthly newsletter, please ask them to e-mail Mark McGee. We'll be glad to put them on our monthly mailing list.
If you would like to join Grace Martial Arts Fellowship ©, contact Mark McGee.
Grace Martial Arts Fellowship is a service of GraceLife Ministries ©.