I humbly dedicate this little volume to the YOUNG MINISTRY of the church today; with an earnest prayer that God may help each of you to catch a vision of God's greatness and of His power, and also of your responsibility in lifting high the standard of His Word of Promise. A "Living Faith" in God and in this Word can only be maintained in the earth as long as the Ministry--both by example and by teaching keeps the TRUTH before the people. While God lets me live my prayer for you shall be that the holy Fire of a "Living Faith" may be kept burning in your hearts. Amen.
F O R E W O R D
It has been my privilege to spend about thirty-three years in Foreign Missionary Work, besides a goodly number of years in both pastoral and evangelistic work in the United States and the British Isles. Most of this time, I have lived and laboured without any definite means of support, but trusting alone in God to supply all my personal needs and the needs of the work to which He had called me. Some of our experiences have been marvelous indeed. Yes, too marvelous to keep hidden away from the heart of the Church in these perilous days in which we are now living, when every Christian needs all the encouragement to their faith that it is possible to have. True Christian people everywhere are suffering things the world did not dream of before. They all need all the spiritual nourishment they can get to build them up in the most holy faith, and to make them able to stand against the wiles of the devil in these days of apostasy. Today we hear men who hold high positions in the nominal Christian world, and even some who at one time were looked up to by the Church as real rocks for God and Truth, scoffing at the sincere testimony of "answered prayer" and unhesitatingly they put the miracle working power of the Son of God as something definitely of the past. For instance, the healing of the body of physical affliction in answer to the prayer of faith, is unhesitatingly set aside. They laugh to scorn at the very suggestion of taking the temporal cares of life before the throne of God in prayer, with the hope of having divine intervention in these things. Most of the Books of Prayer that have been published are so deeply intellectual and so lacking in the divine unction that absolutely no inspiration comes to the soul through reading them. As I have beheld these conditions my heart has cried out to God to help us in some way to lift up before the work and to preserve the Bible Standard of Active Living Faith in our LIVING GOD and in HIS DIVINE PROMISES.
For years past I have been urged by ministerial brethren to write a book on "answers to prayer;" but I have definitely believed it would not be accepted by many, and for this reason I hesitated. Seeing the powers of unbelief increasing, and the hearts of God 's true people just crying out for something that will lift up their faith to a higher plane, I have decided to frankly write this book of testimonies of what God is doing today. I send it out with the hope that many souls may be inspired and lifted up to a higher plane of faith and a deeper depth of obedience to God through reading it. To this end, I pray sincerely that the dear Lord will add His blessings to this feeble effort. If this is accomplished, my efforts will have been well rewarded.
As you read, meditate on the following questions--Whose God are you serving? A God that has ears but that hears not? A God that has eyes but they see not the sufferings of His people? A God that has hands but they are never out-stretched to administer help to those who have need? What God are you serving? Bless the Lord; I am serving the God of Isaac, of Abraham, and of Jacob. I am serving the very same God who quenched the fire in the heated furnace and delivered the three Hebrew boys. I am serving the Living Christ of God who was first seen as He walked in the midst of the fire with the Hebrew boys while they were in the furnaces "and the form of the fourth was like unto the Son of God" Daniel 3:19-25. Glory be to God, file is still walking in the midst of the furnace of affliction or sufferings right by the side of his followers, to DELIVER THEM. Yes, my God is the God of Daniel, and He can still close the mouth of lions when they rise up to destroy God's people. WHAT A MIGHTY GOD WE DO SERVE! My God is the God of all earth and heaven. He metes the mighty waters of the seas in His hand--and THAT HAND upholds me--yes, it upholds all of God's trusting people today. Bless the Lord, oh my soul and ALL that is within me, bless HIS HOLY NAME forever.
Do you feel, troubled soul, that you are sinking--sinking to rise no more? Just lift up your eyes as did Peter and cry out from your heart, and those GREAT OMNIPOTENT arms of God will encircle you and carry you safely through. I KNOW IN WHOM I HAVE BELIEVED, and I know that He is able. This book goes forth with a prayer that it may accomplish just what God has purposed to accomplish through its message--Amen.
E. FAITH STEWART.
CONTENTS
Chapter 1 FAITH IN GOD
Chapter 2 FAITH COMETH BY HEARING (or reading)
Chapter 3 MY CALL TO CUBA
Chapter 4 GOD'S " WHAT-SO-EVER"--Mark 11:24
Chapter 5 THE OPENING OF THE CHILDREN'S HOMES
Chapter 6 TEMPORAL NEEDS
Chapter 7 CHILDREN'S CHAPTER
Chapter 8 DIVINE HEALING
Chapter 9 TESTIMONY OF OTHERS
Chapter 10 GOD'S PROTECTING CARE
Chapter 11 SUGGESTIVE HELPS TO A LIFE OF FAITH
Chapter 12 MIRACULOUS EVENTS ON RECORD IN THE HOLY SCRIPTURES
CHAPTER 1
Faith In God
Mark 11:22
If anyone were to ask me what I consider the basic stone in the foundation of victorious Christian living, or in the successful activities in Christian work, I would unhesitatingly answer-Living faith in God and His word of promise. One may have a sincere heart; a willingness to sacrifice for the cause; a loving disposition; devotion to their religion; one may be very honest and upright in all their dealings with mankind. All these qualities are very good. They are all absolutely necessary in the Christian life, but still with any of these or with all of them together, the Christian life is still lacking greatly if not actually unctionized and kept in action by the power of faith. I fear that the people, so few in number, who realize the value of definite living faith in the Lord, are the only true Christians living. You may ask almost anyone if they have faith in God, and the answer will be in the affirmative. But do they really have faith in Him? Do they believe His Word? Do they live by it?
To have faith in God, one must definitely have faith in His divine plan that covers the needs of this life and of the life to come. One must have absolute confidence in His word of promise, and if we do have this faith it will work mighty things in our individual lives. And the working out of these things will make our lives resplendent with the Light of the Gospel of Christ. God is so mighty and His promises are so very powerful (and dependable) that active faith naturally brings results. Just as surely ness the Master replied saying, "Have faith in God." Mark 11:22. Just following this incident, a man went to Jesus complaining that he had taken his son, possessed with a dumb spirit to some of the disciples asking them to cast out the spirit, and that they failed to do it. Jesus then cast out the dumb spirit from the boy and then He reproved His disciples saying unto them, "Oh faithless generation; how long shall I be with you." Mark 9:17-27. When the disciples saw the deliverance of this boy they turned to Jesus with troubled hearts asking Him why they had failed, and He replied saying to them, "This kind goeth not out but by Fasting and prayer." These words of our Heavenly Father convey to us a deep message of divine Truth. Fasting and prayer many times accomplishes what prayer alone cannot do. Fasting does not increase God's power or His willingness; but it does bring the seeker into a depth of earnestness before God, that is many times lacking in prayer alone. The act of self-denial manifested in sincere fasting while presenting a burden before the Lord prepares our hearts and brings us into closer relationship with the Lord. It enables us to stand definitely on the promises of God, expecting the answer. Fasting in prayer by individuals or by congregations is today almost a forgotten service to God. If it were necessary for Jesus to fast that He might have power and victory over the power of the devil, how much more necessary for us today. If it were necessary for Christ to so deeply feel the burden of responsibility that was falling on Him-the Son of God-that He was carried off alone in fasting and prayer until His soul was saturated with the divine power of His Father; and He (Jesus) was strengthened to finish the work the Father had given Him to do in His great redemption plan, how much more necessary it must be for us to keep so definitely in touch with His will that all He has purposed to be accomplished through His Church may be demonstrated before the unbelieving world through His children today. The world is full of infidelity today because the professed people of God have so lowered the standard of the Word that all they have to offer suffering Humanity is a powerless message. If Christ were to open His lips in these days to reprove the unbelieving professors, as He did in that day when he was walking with some of His disciples along the country road, when He finally, out of a burdened heart said, "Have faith in God", I wonder what He would now say? May God put a Holy burden in each of our hearts until we, as His chosen people; rise up to defend the glorious Gospel in its fullness and power. Shortly after the incident referred to, Christ again tried to draw His children into a place where they could be strong enough to withstand the power of darkness in the evil days that were coming upon the earth. He pointed out God's faithfulness to those who call on Him in faith-but He was able to see the great Apostasy coming in on the Church and saw the day approaching when men just would "not endure sound doctrine", and would lose their faith in God's power and in His Written Word. He cried out of a burdened heart "when the Son of man cometh, will He find faith on the earth?" Luke 18:8. This sad expression, wrung from the very heart of our Lord Jesus, should awaken every true child of God; putting in each of their hearts, the decision to so live that their own faith be not hindered, and that they be determined that their own lives be a clear example and a definite demonstration of what can be done through prayer and faith. One thing that many times hinders the prayer of faith is having brethren who are weak in the faith, and who do not trust God for their own healing, come forward and lay on hands for the healing of others. God's Word says in 2 Timothy 2:6 "The husbandman that laboureth, must be first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say and the Lord give thee understanding in all things." Oh, how very necessary it is for us to really understand spiritual things. How can one pray for the definite healing of another if they do not pray the prayer of faith; or if they do not believe enough to trust God to heal their own bodies? We must be living examples of unwavering faith in the unchanging promises of the Father's Written Word, if we are to be an inspiration and encouragement to our brethren.
God's Word not only contains promises of healing, but it contains definite promises that actually cover every phrase of life--the spiritual, the physical, and the temporal. God promises to keep by His grace; to guide by His spirit; to comfort and strengthen; yes, He promises to heal by His virtue. In few words He has promised to be to us always "a very present help in the time of need" Psalm 46:1. If we live where we are on believing grounds, He will be to us everything we have need of. Believing ground—"If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you (then) ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." John 15:7. Brother, do you believe this? Is it a definite reality in your life? We read again in Acts 17:28 "For in Him we live and move and have our being." Praise God. I ask again--is this experience a blessed reality in your own life? If you must answer no to these questions, then may I ask--what is Christ to you? If He is not your present help in trouble, your deliverer, your healer, your guide--your all and in all—then what is He to you? If you know nothing of that close intimate relation between you and the Lord Jesus, that just makes the promises a living reality, then what are you getting out of the Christian life?
May God so move on the heart of His great Church that once more in the "Evening of Time" we may see many mighty works being done, and many mighty signs following as was seen in the Morning time of the Gospel Age. We all believe He worked in mighty power in the Church in the Morning Time. But what about these days? Why not now? God is unchanging; His word is forever settled in heaven. Creeds of men may change. Laws of men that govern any and everything that pertains to this world may, and do change--but the laws of God including His commandments and plans that govern the spiritual life as well as His promises are unchanging. Weary Christian, lift up your eyes unto the Lord from whence cometh your help, and draw nigh unto Him, seeking divine help until you personally reach that place of restful confidence that will bring an end to your struggles. Every promise He has made should be as a landmark for our faith.
What is your need? Healing of the body? If you are living for His own glory, then it is His will to heal you. Read 3rd John 2, "Beloved, I wish above all things, that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospers." Read this over and over, and meditate on it. Open up your heart and drink it in. This statement was made for you. Reach up and make it your own. Let your soul expand as you meditate on God's marvelous love and your faith must enlarge until the first thing you know, you will be crying out from the depth of your soul, "Yes, Lord I do believe, I do believe!" The only answer there ever will be to the question asked by our Lord Jesus--in Luke 18:8, "When the Son of man cometh will He find faith on the earth?"--must come from the ones who truly represent Him here in the faith. What will your answer to this question be? What will my answer be? There will only be "faith on earth" at that last great day If His True Children maintain their individual faith alive and active to the end of their sojourn below. In so doing, they will then have enriched the world and the Church by faith in Him; and by their example and at their departure for the heavenly home, will leave behind them seeds of gospel truth that will be eternal. Before closing this chapter, let me ask the reader-what are you individually doing by your life and testimony and teaching to preserve to the end, the true Bible standard of faith in God and in His Word? Let us develop by God's help to where we shall be living examples of the believers-true disciples of our Saviour--Jesus Christ. 'Have faith in God," and preserve it.
CHAPTER 2
Faith Cometh By Hearing
(or Reading)
That "faith cometh by hearing--and hearing by the Word" is true, and today there is a great famine in the world--and this famine is caused by a lack of the knowledge of God's full plan for the care of His children. One thing that ought to be convincing is a statement made in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. It reads thus, "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price (even the precious blood of Christ) therefore, glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are His." Yes, if we are His children, we have been bought by Christ's sacrifice--both soul and body. Then knowing that we have been bought definitely, and that He owns us, should we not be able to believe that He wants to care for us, both soul and body. Yes, His plan covers all, and if we can grasp this truth, it will be a stay to us all along life's pathway.
The lack of knowledge of God's full plan for us is the basic cause for the unbelief there is in the world today. The ministers of the gospel of Christ are responsible for much of the lack of faith in the love and power of God today. And my earnest prayer is that the dear Lord may awaken His true ministers to a very definite realization of their responsibility, and that there may be a mighty revival of the old time confidence and faith in the Promises of God. And to those of God's dear children who are not where they can have their faith built up by the preaching of God's Word on these lines, I am happy to say that you are not left without hope-for thank God, we still have today the privilege of searching the Scriptures for ourselves. By thus searching out God's divine plan, and His promises for ourselves, we may build up our own souls in the most holy faith, and keep the fire of faith burning within our hearts daily. In the Bible we have an abundance of examples of what God has done in ages past for those who have trusted Him, and if we do believe that He is just the same today and will be the same forever, then we need not go on suffering for the lack of His divine care, whether that is to be manifested in the healing of our bodies, or the supply of our temporal needs, or His divine protection, or His guidance in all the various conditions of life.
In Acts 17:11, we read of some who were counted more noble than others in that they searched the Scriptures daily to find out if the things they heard reported were true. They believed the Scriptures and took time daily to search out the great truths of God for themselves. And it is true today that anyone who will do the same thing, will be convinced of the Truth, and will be built up in the faith, and will be able to see marvelous things done in the name of the Holy Child Jesus. We only need to exercise faith in the Promises of God and we shall receive. But since the promises of God are Conditional--we need to carefully study the condition of each promise and then see to it that we do meet these conditions, and then faith will become active and will take hold of God and get the answer.
In James 5:16 we read, "Confess your faults one to another, that you may be healed." If there is ought in our lives that does not please God, we must do our part to remove this--to get it out of the way, and then prayer can be effective. Sometimes confession only needs to be made to God, but there are times when we need to clear something out of the way that hinders the confidence of others, and this can only be done by confessing to the person concerned.
If there has been carelessness in our life in any way, or slackness in our devotional life this must be definitely settled between us and God and if we want His divine healing touch on our bodies, or His help in other ways. In John 15:7 we read, "if ye abide in me, and my words abide in you (then) ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." The condition--definitely abiding in the Lord, just living a settled, solid life for His Glory.
In James 4:3 we read, "Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your own lusts." Selfish praying does not bring us in touch with the throne of God, and therefore does not bring the answer down. What is the object of your desire to have prayer answered? That God may be glorified? That Christ may be exalted? Is it that the cause of Christ and His Gospel may be advanced? Do you want to be healed so you can enjoy the pleasures of the world, or so you may serve the Lord Jesus better? Let us examine well our motives in coming to the Lord for His help, and then with pure hearts and right desires let us approach Him in faith to receive all He has promised in His Holy Word. May God bless and inspire active faith in each reader, is my fervent prayer.
CHAPTER 3
My Call To Cuba
Putting Out the Fleece
Being Sure of God's Will in a Matter--Judges 6:36-40
We have here a beautiful example of God's dealings with His children; and of His willingness to make known in a definite way, His will concerning us. I am doubtful if there are any Christians who do not at times suffer deeply in their desire to know God's full will concerning them, so they can do it. At times we reach crossroads in life's path of duty and it is difficult to know definitely which way we should go, or which of two duties should be taken up as our responsibility. At such times a soul should be still before God. Until the path of God's choosing for him is made clear. At one time God laid on Gideon the responsibility of saving the Israelites from the hand of their enemies, the Midianites, and the task seemed so great that Gideon shrank from it. But at last he cried out to God for definite guidance, and he put some fleece out on the floor and prayed that if God was really sending him to do this great work, he would make it clear by letting dew fall heavily upon the fleece and let the earth all around it be dry. If this happened he would then know the divine will. God answered in a clear way. And a few times in my life I have put "fleece" out to be able to clearly determine the Lord's will.
My call to Cuba was sudden and very unexpected and I felt the step was too great to be taken without definite leadings. It was at the Anderson, Indiana Camp meeting in June 1930; I closed myself in alone with God one night until 2 p. m. the following day. About 8 a. m. a burden came on me to put the "fleece" out, and I did so. At that hour, I was practically without money and had been looking to the Lord to supply and I expected Rim to do so. Being on the campground, it would have been a very natural thing for some who knew I was going to Cuba as a missionary to give me something; so when I felt burdened to put a financial test out, before the Lord as the "fleece" of direction, in this critical moment, I felt it must be done in such a clear way that there would be no confusion in the matter. So I prayed--asking God to send me some money from some source clear away from the campground, and for it not to be less than $10.00. Anything received on the campgrounds would not be an answer to this prayer. Much was at stake so I had prayed with all the fervor of my soul, and God sent a definite answer, about 6:30 p. m. I was sitting in the Young People's service when a boy entered with a Special Delivery letter for me. My hand trembled as I reached for it9 because I felt sure it was the "dew falling on the fleece." I was in the presence of God and He was answering. The letter had been sent from Chicago, Illinois, just after mid-day. It read something like this, "My dear Faith, I was burdened for you during the night, and since early morning the weight has hourly grown heavier, and it is on the financial line that I feel burdened. I have scarcely been able to work this morning for thinking of you. I do hope there is nothing wrong. I am rushing this note off to you and hope the enclosed check will be of use to you at this time." Enclosed was $20.00. I had a full answer. The dew had fallen just where I had asked that it might. The gift was more than ten dollars, and came from entirely outside the camp, and from one who did not know I was praying about Cuba. Thank God, He has power to remove mountains of difficulties and show Himself strong in behalf of those whose hearts are perfect toward Him.
From the day God sent this clear answer to prayer as an assurance that I was not mistaken in the divine call He had placed on my heart, I moved forward in full preparation for the new field I was to enter. And although nearly twenty-one years have passed, bringing many problems and afflictions and persecutions, yet not once have I doubted my call, and this has brought strength to my soul many times, for knowing as I have that I am here in the center of the Lord's will, I have laid on Him the responsibility of safely bringing me through whatever arises n our work. If our ways are committed to Him, He shall direct our paths. The Psalmist said, "Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass." Praise God forevermore.
God Supplied Fare to Cuba
Knowing definitely that God had called me to Cuba to pour out my life there in getting the true Gospel to the people, I secured the address of one family in Havana, Cuba, and had some correspondence with them. I also had the address of one sister living in Miami, Florida. Having contact with these two places, I made my plans for the trip. I reached Miami, Florida on a Saturday morning, the 6th of September 1930 and was to leave there by train for Key West at 3:30 a. m. Monday to make connection with the boat from Key West, Florida to Havana, Cuba. I did not come with the backing of the Missionary Board, for although they did heartily sanction my coming; they said they were unable to finance the opening of a new mission field. But believing as I did that I was divinely called to this field, I felt a calm assurance in my heart that God would supply my every need. However, He let me be deeply tested before I got there.
On reaching Miami, I at once made inquiries about the trip expenses, and knowing that on reaching Havana I would need to have a few dollars in hand for a taxi, etc., I found I lacked twenty dollars of having enough so I took the matter to the Lord in earnest prayer. I attended the services in the little church there that morning and evening (on Sunday) and preached in both of the meetings. I passed the day in much prayer--and believed firmly that God would not fail me. Near the close of the night service, a lady came quietly to my side saying she must leave as some neighbor had brought her in from the country and he wanted to go. She slipped an envelope in my hand and quietly went out. I put the envelope in my handbag, and did not open it until after I was back in Sister Perkins's home, ready to be taken to the train. When at last I opened the envelope and found there the twenty dollars God had sent me in answer to prayer, my heart over-flowed with gratitude to God for this marvelous and clear manifestation of His presence with me. This definite answer to prayer at that time meant more to me than any bank account could have meant. This was to me God's real seal upon my call to Cuba. Praise His Holy name forever. The Sister at whose home I was stopping told me that the Sister who had given this was so poor she could hardly believe it possible that she had made such a gift. After reaching Cuba I wrote to the Sister who gave this offering and told her what it had meant to me. That this had been God's way of getting me to the field He had chosen for me is an impregnable truth. She then wrote back telling how she had worked and saved this little by little so she could go north to see her aged father who was seriously ill. She told of the struggle she passed through when the Lord told her to bring it all and give to me. She continued telling how God rewarded her by causing someone who was a stranger to her, and who was going by car to the city where her father lived, to take her all the way without cost, and to also bring her back on their return. Thus a trip that would have cost her double the money she had was given her freely for her obedience to the call of God to give what she had in hand. Did not Jesus say; "Give and it shall be given you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, shall men give into your bosom." Luke 6:38. This experience brings to us very clearly a wonderful lesson. This lesson is that they that put their confidence in the Lord shall never be put to shame, for the dear Lord has obligated Himself scripturally to care for them; and we are also taught by this event that God will never fail to reward those who make sacrifice to advance His Kingdom in the hearts of men.
CHAPTER 4
God's 'Whatsoever'
- Mark 11:24
The outgoing of a passenger boat delayed three days that prayer might be answered.
A group of God's children were gathered in for a special sunrise prayer service, seeking divine help in the paying of a church indebtedness that was due on this same day. A fervent spirit of prayer rested on many hearts, and we had the assurance that God was going to answer in a marvelous way. After having prayed for some time, Mother Gonzales, a real saint of God, reached over from where she had been praying and quietly called the pastor and me out into a side room and told us that she had the exact amount we needed for this church debt in her home and that God had spoken clearly to her, telling her to loan it to us so the bill due could be paid that morning. Then the Lord would send it to us and we could give it back to her. She said it had been sent to pay the passage of three of her little grandchildren to New York, where their parents lived. The parents had asked that they be sent there in company with a lady friend who was sailing the following day. After knowing that the money would need to be on hand that afternoon or early the next morning, to be able to purchase the tickets and properly plan for the trip, we hesitated to accept the use of the money. But the good Sister very definitely declared that God had spoken to her and that she must obey. So we trustingly accepted it and at once paid the bill. That day nothing came to us, and the lady with whom the children were to have been sent grew very angry when she knew what had been done. She declared she was going on that boat (the following day) and that the children would be left behind. But God, who had given instructions to this dear sister regarding the use of the money, knew full well just how to work it all out. The following day no money came but we felt a great calm in our souls, being assured that the dear Lord would not fail us. In the afternoon, a few hours before time for the passengers to embark, a strong tempest raised, and in the streets trees were up-rooted, small buildings were destroyed, and sailing was impossible. Because of the terrible storm that swept around the coast, the boat was held in the docks for three days overtime. On the morning of the third day, God sent the money in full. The tickets were quickly purchased and the children left on the boat just as they had planned to do. Praise our God! He is the God of the whole universe. He controls the land and seas. He speaks and the waves obey His voice. That evening as the ship went out ploughing its way through the seas, the hearts of a group of God's children in Cuba were singing praises to His name, exalting Him before the people for His mighty power and for His wonderful works to the children of men.
Definitely Guided by God's Spirit
(Sister Keith's healing)
What wonderful privileges are ours if we are truly living for God, and if we have our lives completely given over to His control. One of the greatest promises Christ ever gave to the believer was that when the Holy Spirit would come that He would guide the children of God into the full light of the Gospel. He said--speaking of the Holy Spirit—"Howbeit, when He, the Spirit of Truth is come, He will guide you into all Truth." This is definitely speaking of the Holy Spirit leading us into the full light and truth of the Scriptures. He will surely do this if we are willing to accept each ray of truth as His spirit reveals it to us; but if we reject a part of the Truth, He is not obligated to continue revealing Truth. Our 6nIy safety lies in accepting, with grateful hearts, what He does reveal. Then He will continue until our very souls will be illuminated with the light of divine truth. As we follow on in His divine plan, our lives will be filled with grace and victory and glory, and we will then become as lights in the world and draw others to the blessed saviour of men.
There is also another way in which He has promised to guide us, and sad to say, but few of the Christians think of the great privilege that could be theirs; or of their responsibility in magnifying the Lord through these personal demonstrations of His power and of His care. Thank God it is possible for us to hear the voice of God clearly speaking to us, definitely trying to guide us in clear paths of service to Him. In the year, 1929, I had a very definite experience of being guided by the dear Lord in a plain path in service to my fellow man. I lived at that time in Indianapolis and was pastor of one of the congregations. Sister Keith was a faithful member in my congregation. Her general health was good but she had had a few serious heart attacks. These were not very frequent so we had not been deeply concerned about her. She lived a number of blocks from my place, but I usually walked there to see her. One night, possibly 3 o'clock in the morning, I was definitely awakened from sound sleep as if some one had entered the room and called me. As I awakened, I sat up in bed, and after a moment's thought, knowing that I was alone in the apartment; I realized that the Lord had awakened me. So I bowed my head in prayer and asked Him what He had awakened me for. The answer quickly came, "Call a cab at once and go to Sister Keith." I quickly called the cab and rapidly dressed while waiting for it. In a few moments, I was there. Being so definitely sure God had spoken, I expected to see the house lit up, and to see the family stirring for I was sure something was wrong there. To my surprise, everything was in darkness and the family sleeping (as far as I could see). The cab driver stood by a few minutes and the enemy of all good said, "What a foolish thing you have done. They are all in bed asleep." Quickly looking to the Lord I was impressed to enter a small side gate and to try and go around to the back door. I sent the cab away and entered that dark passage for the first time in my life. As I reached the kitchen door, I saw through a small crack, that light was in the house. Without knocking or speaking, I opened the door and entered. There in a chair sat our beloved Sister Keith, to all outward appearances gasping her last breath. She had awakened with heart attack and had gone downstairs for water. When she got downstairs she was so bad she could do nothing. Her husband worked nights and the two daughters were both upstairs in bed asleep. From where she sank down in the chair, with much difficulty she had unlocked the back door. She could not speak a word but as she saw me enter, the tears of gratitude flowed from her eyes. Without a word to her, I stepped to her side and as I laid on hands, I felt invested with authority from Heaven over the affliction. God enabled me to pray the prayer of faith and the work was instantly done. Our praises awoke the girls and they soon joined us. All together, we prayed, worshipped and adored our Saviour and healer. From that hour, Psalm 32:8 has been more real to me than ever before in my life—"I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way in which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye." "Bless the Lord Oh my soul and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name."
As I write this, I am convinced that some who will read it will doubt it; but the Lord does not change the fact of truth. Some will say, "But that was twenty years ago. What good does it do us now?" Dear ones, time never has or never will change or take from the power of God. "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today, and forever." Some will say, "But that was just one special case." Yes, that was just one special case, but it can be multiplied if we listen to the voice of God's Spirit when He speaks and then move out in obedience to that voice.
In these latter days many have fallen from the faith but my brethren, God has not changed. His word of Promise has not changed; neither has His plan for the care of His people changed. What Christ needs today is an army of men and women, spirit filled and humble, ready to sell out, entirely placing their lives in His hand, ready for sacrifice or ready for service. How many will enlist wholeheartedly in His Service--ready to hear, ready to obey, ready to he used by Him to the fullness of your capacity coupled up with the Holy Spirit.
Christ, Our Defense in Times of Storm
Boxes released from the Customs
"He only is our rock and our salvation; He is my defense; I will not be greatly moved." Psalm 62:2.
We have tested, and we have tried Him, and we have proved Him, and we do know his promises are true; therefore we shall not be moved by the pressure of exterior things, but shall continue to do as David said, "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help." Psalm 121:1.
In the early part of 1948, kind brethren in the States got together large quantities of clothing, both new and used, and bedding and other household things, and toys and school supplies. They packed seven large packing cases, and shipped them to Havana, Cuba, for us to use for the boys and girls in the Children's' Homes; and also for distribution among poor workers and other brethren out in the different Mission Stations. How we did rejoice when we got this good news. Rapidly all arrangements were made to meet the requirements for lifting these boxes of useful things from the Customs House. We were informed that the charges would be around $40.00, and we felt this was reasonable, and at the appointed time some of the workers took this money to the Customs House, expecting to bring the things out without further trouble. But we were sadly disappointed as they then informed us that we would have to wait two days more, and pay something over $60.00. We knew this was too much, but feeling there was no way out of it, in sacrifice we got this additional money together. The brethren took it and went back to the Customs House at the appointed time. But our troubles with the Customs officers had begun. At one time they told us that the things were going to cost us over $300.00. We just could not pay this, and kept trying to work on this problem, but the more we worked the more decided these men were against us. At last they told us the things were so dirty and so infected that they could not let them out for any price, but would have to burn them. We still prayed on trusting God to over rule in some way. Another time they informed us that we could have them out for $700.00. We were so shocked at this news that our hearts almost sank but we kept saying God's Word just could not be broken, and that He had promised to let us triumph over our enemies.
At this time I had to go to the States to attend some camp meetings, and left Cuba with this great burden still hanging over me. While in the Burnside, Pennsylvania camp meeting, I requested special prayer that God would lay His hand on this thing, and let us have what had been sent for the good of His work in Cuba. How well I do remember that season of prayer. Several took this matter right on their hearts, and when dear Sister J. D. Harmon from Oklahoma prayed, she definitely asked God to take right hold of this thing, and give us those boxes without having to pay anything for them. This seemed like asking almost too much, but does not the Word say to, "ask largely, that our joy may be full." This is what Sister Harmon did, and God answered in just that way. Praise His dear name forever. God worked in a mighty way from that day. Soon after that Brother Horacio Morales, one of our workers in Cuba, was speaking with a man whom he had accidentally met, about these boxes and the trouble we were having. The stranger listened attentively, and then said, "You have spoken to the right man for I am the defense officer. He asked for the papers to be taken to him, and at once he took hold of the case. In three weeks he sent word for Brother Morales and I to be ready the next morning, as he was taking us down with him; and that we were going to get the boxes out that day. What a night of rejoicing we did have. The next morning he came early and took us in his car. When we were near the Customs House he stopped at a Military Post and asked that a truck be sent right over to the Customs House with us. His order was obeyed, and we soon arrived there. The gentleman entered the building, taking some policemen with him, and walked in where the boxes were, putting a mark on each one, and asking the policemen to carry them out and put them on the military truck waiting outside. They obeyed and in a few moments we were on our way home, knowing the boxes were also on their way there. God had stepped in and answered prayer, just as it had been presented before Him. The boxes were delivered in good condition, and we did not have to pay even for the truck to bring them out to the Children's Home. Praise our God forever and forever.
And the report that the things were in such a bad condition was false, for we never had received a shipment of such splendid things. Brethren, why is it so hard for us to trust the Living God for the things we need, and which He has promised to do for us? May God increase our faith, and help us to so live that He can be honored in giving us the very desires of our hearts" Psalm 37:4.
As we unpacked and divided out the things for the children in the two Homes and also repacked boxes for the different Mission Stations our hearts overflowed, and we adored and worshipped Our Blessed Lord and Master. Let us love Him more, serve Him better, and trust Him fully for all things.
"ELIJAH'S GOD" STILL LIVES
and
We have the assurance that, "Jesus Christ 'Elijah's
God' is just the same, yesterday, today and forever."
Hebrews 13:8
I feel constrained for the glory of God, and for the encouragement of His saints to write a testimony of a very definite answer to prayer that we recently had.
For several years we have suffered a great shortage of water at the Children's Homes, in Los Pinos, Havana, Cuba. Much of the time the municipality had to send large tanks of water, containing several hundred gallons, and have it poured into our well to keep the supply going. Last year another well was drilled, but still the same conditions continued. All last winter and spring we had practically no rainfall in Cuba, and a great drought settled down over much of Cuba, and the reports of shortage of water came from all parts of the Island. Here in the city of Havana, where the water supply had never failed, the conditions became so grave that in many parts of the city the water was only turned on a few hours daily, and some days not at all. In Los Pinos where we have the Homes located, we get our water from wells, and these wells all over that suburb went dry. The condition was tragic.
Our well also went dry and we had to hunt from one little farm to another for a few buckets of water. At last folks who had let us have a little water, had to tell us we could get no more as their wells were also going dry. We reported to the City Authorities, and different groups of Government men came out to study the situation and to see what could be done to solve this awful problem for the Institution. A private family could buy water in bottles, and using great care, could get through; but how could we take care of a situation like this in an Institution with over 120 living there? Nothing could be kept clean; no cooking could be done many days, no bathing of the children, and no water for laundry work.
One commission came and said we would have to put in a larger electric motor to pump the water. The next group, after much study, said that would do no good, but that the well must be drilled much deeper. This sounded more reasonable. But in a few days another commission came to study the situation, and then with sad hearts told us the case was hopeless--that there was no water in the earth. They said they had tested it to a great depth, and that there was no sign of water. That nothing could be done. The last few weeks before this what little water we had been able to get of a morning was so muddy it could not be used, and at last red clay came up with only a little water in a bucket.
Never have we passed through a deeper problem. No water for cooking, no water for bathing, or cleaning, nothing to drink--a tragic situation and growing graver daily. When the last group of Government men said nothing could be done, we turned into the Home almost speechless. We had been praying earnestly, but we had not yet prayed through. But at this hour, 2 P. M. on Wednesday, May 10, 1950 a group of the workers of the Homes fell on our faces before God and we cried out of the depth of our hearts for "Water." We forgot everything else, and we prayed for "Water." We had to have water and at that time God alone could give the water. We did not know how it would come as the Government Engineers who had tested the ground had definitely said there was NO water in the earth; but we, like ELIJAH of old, cried out of the depths of our souls for WATER. About 3 P. M. (one hour later) we heard a loud, happy cry ring out over the place. "Water, water, come and see!" "OH, THERE IS WATER--CLEAN, PURE WATER--LOTS OF IT!" We all rushed out to see, and there sure enough, running from all the water pipes, was water-clean-pure water in abundance. Yes, Elijah's God--OUR God--had answered prayer. HE IS THE VERY SAME TODAY.
From that day to this, July 24th, 1951, we have had an abundance of water day and night. In just a few moments neighbors, having heard the cry, came running with buckets to take water to clean or cook. Praise God forever and forever! The Postman heard the news and came hurrying to see if it was true. Others heard of this miracle, and came to see. We had a wonderful opportunity to magnify our God before the people. Thank the dear Lord, the people of this community (mostly Catholics) have had a wonderful opportunity of hearing of the mighty power of God as manifested towards those who love and serve Him.
May God use this testimony for the good of souls. Brethren, we do not trust Him enough, and even when He does answer prayer for us, too many times we fail to give Him the glory. Let us exalt His name together, that the unbelievers may know. And let us live in such vital touch with our Lord that at any time of need, we may just call upon OUR FATHER, and receive the answer full and definite.
"My God shall supply ALL your needs, according to His riches in Glory" Philippians 4:19
I have already told you of the wonderful way in which God heard and answered prayer in supplying an abundance of water in our dry well on May 10, 1950, and I am happy to tell you that up to this date there has been an abundance of water for every part of the work in the large Institution, and for all the neighbors, since the hour God touched the dry well and sent water. The heavy drought continued for some four months AFFER we had water, and the sufferings around us were terrible, but we had water all this time. Praise God forever!
I have added this note, because many have been writing to me asking if we still have water in that well. Yes, thank God, when He does a thing, He does it well. At the same time we were suffering for water in the Homes, the water condition all over the Island was very grave, and here in Havana, the authorities, in trying to save the water, divided the hours of the day and night in different sections of the city. Out in the Buena Vista Suburb, where we have the mission house, and where the church building is also located (where we always have our Convention), the water was turned on a couple hours late in the night. This made it necessary for someone to remain up in each home, waiting for the water, and then fill vessels to supply water for the family until the following night. Because of these conditions and other problems, the brethren had almost decided that it would not be possible to have our Convention this year. But after much prayer we decided to go on with our plans, and arranged for and bought a number of large vessels for water in the mission house. We always feed the brethren who come to this meeting at the mission house, and it would naturally require much water to carry this through.
I went out to the house with others, two different times to clean and get ready, but could get no water. At last I went out on a Thursday evening to remain with others to catch water in the night for this work. We got the water in our vessels that night, but never needed it. The next morning when we got up we were surprised to find running water. This was just two days before the convention was to begin. We asked our neighbors on all sides if they had running water that morning, and they all said NO. We were the only ones who had and none of them could understand; but we did, full well. And the water stayed on for just fifteen days--or until all our visitors had gone back to their homes. The day after all had left the water was again on ONLY in the night for a while so we could get water if we needed it. This condition lasted until October when the heavy rains broke, and there was more water for the city.
But all during the convention we had a full supply, not only for the cooking and cleaning, but also many of the brethren from out of the city, came to ask the privilege of bathing at our place as they could not get water where they were staying. What a joy to let them come and use of the blessing God had so freely supplied us. How wonderful it is to have a God who really hears and ANSWERS prayer.
But even as I write this I know that some who will read this testimony will doubt it in their hearts. But there are scores of brethren in Cuba who could affirm what I am writing. I am writing this because a number of the dear brethren here have asked me if I had given this testimony, and when I said, "No," they asked me why I did not write it for God's glory. So here it is, clear and straight. The God who with held rain for Elijah, and later sent rain in answer to his prayer is OUR God, and thank the Lord He has lost none of His power or willingness. In 2 Timothy 3:5 it speaks of those who have a form of godliness but who deny the power of God. How sad that these conditions exist among those who have all their lives had clear demonstrations of God's love and power, and yet do not believe. Naturally such cannot receive from God these marvelous answers to prayer, because He only answers "the prayer of faith," but bless God, those who do really live to the standard of His Holy Word, and whose lives thus please Him, can call upon their Father, and He does answer. May these testimonies strengthen the faith of those who read, and may His great name be lifted up among the people.
A Cow Healed That Money be Supplied for the Mission Work
In the early part of 1950, we were confronted with some unexpected expenses in the work of the Lord. We were praying earnestly for God to move m a special way, supplying the money needed to meet these bills. We prayed several times, but did not feel the assurance we wanted. At last the burden grew on our hearts for the small offerings we were receiving daily would not meet this above the other expenses. When we got right down in earnest we prayed through, and felt the assurance that God had heard, and that according to His promise the answer must come. Had He not said in 1st John 5:15, "And if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask of Him, we know that we have the petition that we have desired of Him." Bless the Lord, oh, my SOUL, and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name--He is both able and wiling to give us what we need, and ask Him for in Faith. Believing that our prayers were heard, we arose from our knees and each went our way about the work of the Lord. In four days a letter came from a Northern State, from a stranger. As we opened the letter we had the feeling that this was God's answer. Imagine the thrill as we took out of this letter a check for $200.00. Our hearts overflowed. We called the workers of the HOMES in to rejoice together in another answer to prayer. And our joy was complete as we read the letter. It stated that on a certain day--the day we had prayed through--they had a wonderful experience with the Lord. They were not rich people, but had some cows and depended much on the income from these for the family needs. To their sorrow the best milk cow they had, a good animal, fell very sick, and became paralyzed all over. The veterinary was called but could do nothing for it. So they, in their distress and burden, did the right thing--took it to the Lord in prayer. Went to the Lord for healing for the cow? You ask. Yes, and why not? Has He not said, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you (then on these conditions) ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you."
These dear ones went in earnest prayer, feeling they must have help, and they told the Lord that if He healed this cow, they would send a good offering for missions. When they went this far THEN God showed them to send it to Cuba. They prayed, and went to bed. The next morning when the brother went out to attend to the cows, THIS cow completely well. Praise God forever! So they obeyed Him, and sent the $200.00 offering to us here in Cuba. As we learned of what God had done in order to get the answer to us, we were made to fall down and worship Him who is worthy. The dear ones who sent the offering did not know us, or the need, but God did and that was sufficient. Oh, that men would learn to believe what the Word of God says, and put their trust in Him for all things. Then could the work of the Lord prosper and many souls would be brought to a definite knowledge of God's great goodness, and His love, and His power. May this testimony encourage some of God's dear children to take all their burdens to the Lord, knowing that He is interested in everything that touches the lives of His children.
God Took a Saint to GLORY to Provide Funds for the Convention
In 1950 we were in deep waters economically and were trying the best we could to care for all the different activities of The Missionary Work in Cuba, and at the time of which I am going to speak, we were face to face with the facts that as far as we could see with the natural eye, there were no funds with which to cover the expenses of the Annual Convention, which was to convene from April 23rd over the 3Oth. Because of the extreme poverty of our brethren, we have always had to pay the fares to and from the convention for the Ministers and workers. We must also furnish food free, not only for these but for nearly all who come, as those who pay their own fare are usually so very poor that this causes the greatest of sacrifice, and they could not come to the Convention at all, if they had to pay for rooms and food. So each year we have very heavy expenses for this meeting, but have always seen such great results that we felt repaid. However, at this time we just knew that unless God stepped in and did something special, we simply could not have the meeting.
A group of workers gathered together to plan and pray and see what we could do. The more we thought of canceling the meeting, the more impossible this seemed, for we are laboring for the salvation of souls, and for the spiritual deepening of God's saints. So after much consideration, we felt we must in some way go through with our usual plans. During this time the spirit of God came upon me in a very special way, as if in prophesy, saying, "God will put this convention through, and supply the needs if He has to take some saint home to glory to accomplish it." As God spoke into my heart, I opened my mouth and repeated it aloud. At once a brother said, "Sister Stewart, what are you doing--prophesying?" I answered saying I did not know about that, but that I was just repeating what God had spoken into my soul. From that hour we went ahead with our plans just as if we had the money in hand. And did we not have it (by faith) since God had spoken out of heaven?
A brother who was present in prayer that day, asked me what I thought it meant for "God to take a saint home to glory to provide for the convention;" and my answer was, "'I do not know, but He may know of some poor saint living in a cottage that they will not need, if he takes them home to glory." And that was exactly what God did.
A few days later a dear sister in the Lord wrote to me saying that they had just laid her dear mother, Mrs. Julia Emery, away to rest, as God had taken her. And she continued saying that after returning from the funeral she and her sister had looked through the mothers things together, and had found a letter penned by her, addressed to the two of them, and this is what the letter said, "Dear girls, when you sell Mother's little house, divide the money between the two of you. But please take out first $500.00 and send it to Sister Stewart in Cuba for the work there. Signed, 'Mother.'"
The sister continued in her letter saying that as they read this, they had a feeling that we were urgently in need of the money, so they were not waiting to sell the place before sending this. They had made up what they could and got the rest on a loan, and were sending it at once. The check was sent with this same 1ietter. And needless to say we had the most powerful convention we have ever had in Cuba. God's holy spirit was poured out in every service from the very first until the last but increasing with each day. Oh, what glory was manifest in those services and many souls were saved, and sanctified, and several came out of divisions into God's marvelous light, and many sick were healed. Praise God forever. One scripture that just thrills my soul every time I read it is found in Exodus 20:22 "Ye have seen that I have talked with you from heaven." And we certainly know that when God does speak to us from heaven, we are safe in accepting His message, and acting on it. Where faith lays hold of the promises, God cannot fail--for He has pledged Himself to answer the prayer of faith. What the church needs today, in the midst of all the unbelief in the world, is a revival of the old time childlike faith in the Word He hath spoken. Let us as the people of God seek Him for it, as this is what the world today needs to help bring them back to God, and to His ways.
Divine Guidance is Possible Today
How often we have heard folks say they do not want to trouble the Lord about LITTLE THINGS, but He has definitely asked us to bring ALL our burdens to Him. He has promised to be a PRESENT HELP in EVERY TIME OF NEED--so it is our privilege to take EVERYTHING to Him in prayer. And the sooner the true Christian learns this most valuable lesson, the sooner many of his or her problems will be solved, and the pathway (of the just) will then be smoothed out, and the glory of the Lord will shine upon us more and more.
In the summer of 1949 I left Havana, Cuba, arriving in Homestead, Florida on a Thursday evening. I was due to speak in a congregation in Chicago, Illinois on Sunday morning. I had written before to get information about the busses or trains from Miami, Florida to Chicago, and got an answer back from both Homestead and Miami, giving a schedule that leaving Friday morning I could reach Chicago Saturday afternoon. This seemed to me very quick time, but having gotten the same information from two persons, living in different places, I counted on it, and left Havana as before stated, on Thursday. But when I arrived in Homestead I was informed that wrong information had been given from the ticket office, and that the only way I could reach Chicago in time for my appointment would be to 'fly' to Nashville, Tennessee, or to Atlanta, Georgia, and get a bus from there. So I went to the airport early Friday morning, not yet decided to which of these places I would go, but looking to the Lord for direction. It seemed in the natural that it would make NO difference, but God knew what I did not know and He directed my going.
As I stepped to the window to buy my ticket, I placed out Cuban money without thinking what I was doing. I was so accustomed to using this. When the agent called my attention to this, I was for the moment confused. As I had been summoned to go on this trip quickly, and in my rushing off, I had failed to change my money into United States currency. (In all my travels this had never happened before.) I was told that to make the exchange there I would lose sixty per cent, and felt I should not do this. Having enough United States money with me to buy the ticket as far as Nashville, Tennessee, I decided to do that. Personally it made no difference to me whether I flew to Nashville or Atlanta. I talked with My Father while buying that ticket, and put the whole thing in His hands. I knew if I had to make the exchange I could do it there in Nashville.
Having good friends in a brother and sister living in Nashville (although I did not expect to have time to see them), after arriving there, I went to the phone to call them. They knew nothing of my plans, did not know that I had left Cuba. On hearing my voice, and knowing who I was, they insisted that I had plenty of time to go out to their home for a few hours and get off on a bus later than I had really planned. So the brother at once drove out to the airfield for me, and I was soon happy in their presence.
Remember--God either had to open a way for me to get on to Chicago, or I would have to lose so heavily in making exchange of the Cuban money I had brought with me through my rush in getting off. But almost as soon as I got seated in this sister's home she began telling me how wonderful it seemed that God had brought me there right at that time--for they had been saving their tithe money and had a considerable sum on hand, and at the time I phoned, they had lust been talking together about it, and wondering where the Lord would have them send it. At this point in their conversation the phone had rung, and when in surprise the sister-in speaking with me, repeated my name-the husband (who was sitting close by) at once spoke up and said to the wife, "She is coming for our tithe." So the sister hurried into another room and came out, placing in my hand $60.00. What a surprise-and yet why should it have been-for has He not said in His Holy Word that He would direct our paths. In Proverbs 3:6 we read, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He SHALL DIRECT Thy PATHS." And again in Psalm 37:23 we read, "The steps of a good man are directed by the Lord, and He delighteth in his way."
How my very soul thrilled as I looked on that money, knowing that these dear ones knew nothing of this need, and knowing that I could just as well flown to Atlanta, and would have missed all this blessing--but the Lord Himself had directed my ways, and had really prepared these dear ones for my arrival. With the Psalmist my very soul cries out, "bless the Lord oh, my soul, and forget not all His benefits." May the Lord help us to exalt His name among the people, that others may know of His marvelous works among the children of men--TODAY. Yes, "Jesus Christ (IS) the same--yesterday, TODAY, and forever."
Traveling Expenses Provided Along the Way
In Genesis 18:14, we read where God was speaking to Abraham and said unto him, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Again in Jeremiah 32:17, we read the answer to this question, "Ah Lord God! behold, thou has made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out thy arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:" Praise God forever. If only all of God's dear children could drink in the fullness of this heavenly truth, and profit by it in their lives, what a change would come in the life of many a Christian. Many believe this and say that there is nothing TOO HARD for our God, but they stagger over the little things needed in life, and suffer lack because they feel these things are too small to trouble God with. But it is His delight to come to our aid in the great things of life and in the small things that trouble us.
[ Continued...See Link Below ]