Nov 24 - Confidence In Knowing

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. 1 John 5:14-15

There is no denying that all of us live busy lives. In fact, we all understand that there is a challenge for us to set priorities and to stick to them. Some priorities that we set are just what we need and others that we set for our lives are all about what we want. That’s why it’s good to have confidence in knowing that God will supply all, not some, but all of our needs according to His riches in glory. Now that’s good confidence in knowing.

All of us together as one body in Christ have set Operation Transformation as a priority in our lives. As we live according to God’s will, as followers of Christ, we have the confidence in knowing that God will make the necessary provisions available to see the vision fulfilled. It is not our will that will be revealed, but the will of God will be revealed in the end.

As believers, our relationship with God should be strong enough that when we go to the Father in prayer no matter what the situation is, we have confidence that He hears us and He will answer our prayers.

Prayer Focus: Father, I thank you for this day and all of the provisions that you have allowed us to obtain in it. God, we thank you for Operation Transformation and the opportunity to be a part of it. Now God, as we move forward in the building of your Kingdom, we pray that you allow us to give according to your will and your way, Father. No matter the case or situation, I thank you in advance for the confidence in knowing that if we approach you God and that if we ask anything according to your will, that you will hear us, Father. Thank you for what you are in our lives and thank you for Operation Transformation. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Rev. Alex Bracey II

Nov 23 - Let's Be Ready For Jesus

He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Luke 1:17

As I have been reading the Bible in 90 days, it is evident that some of the very conditions that existed prior to God interceding in world activities exist today. One thing that has been reinforced in my mind is that God hates violence (Ezekiel 8:17). God’s people were moving far away from Him and before they could turn back to God, the temple had to be re-established to prepare the people for the return.

In Ezra 3:8, after coming out of captivity in Babylon, the children of Israel began a work to repair the temple in Jerusalem for worship. Worship may be considered a spiritual readiness to enter God’s presence. This is noted in chapter 6:21; the children of Israel left the ungodly behavior of their captives in preparation to seek God.

Nehemiah confessed that his people had not kept God’s commandments (1:7). Later in chapter 8, all the people who had been in captivity were called together in order to hear again the words of the Book of Moses. They were reminded and prepared to re-enter God’s presence by hearing again God’s Word. The temple building was to be resumed.

I believe the New Testament, through Jesus, prepares our bodies to be temples – temples for the Holy Ghost. It prepares us for that holy habitation. Matthew 25:34 says the kingdom has been prepared for us; let us be ready to receive it. Let Him find us doing the will of God. Luke 12:40 tells us to be ready; we know not when He will return.

Prayer Focus: Let us pray for a world that is readied for the return of Jesus. That He might be received with the love He is worthy of. Pray for a spiritual readiness that will allow us to recognize Him and that we are fearless and undeterred in following Him. We have all that we need in God’s Word to do so. Let us pray this in Jesus’ name – Amen.

Mona Riddick

Nov 22 - Let's Stay Together

Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” Psalm 133:1

I am very excited to know that God is allowing his children to experience the prophetic promises that indicate clearly his sovereignty, wisdom, and love. In this shift as a church family, it is to be expected some obvious warfare. It should equally be an expectation as we follow God, and of course, the one God chose to lead us in unity and a spirit of obedience. He has been a God of divine order and now we are to participate in each other’s spiritual rescue.
That rescue is to remind one another that our purpose is to work together for God. We are reminded that unity is important and necessary to make the church a positive example to the world and help draw others to the Lord and to help us to cooperate as a body of believers as God meant us to do.
God is totally aware of every need as we move forward in faith. He sees, hears and understands the prayers of his children. In the challenges of life, we are stretched or shapened by God’s hands in order to give him all the glory, yet the way we express ourselves toward one another will express our unity of purpose.
We have been equipped with the word of God (his logos) to help us in our situations and our communications with one another, and when we send the word out, it is written, that it will never come back void. If you truly want to see the supernatural manifestations of God in your life, then obey his word and don’t forget to use it no matter what may come.
God is not at all baffled or confused about what circumstances look like to us, nor is he pleased when we are not honest with him when we should be about the spirit warring against the flesh. If I can remind you that there is no good thing in the flesh, then come on and encourage yourself in the word of God. He will reward your diligence. Remember, this verse states that unity is wonderful and pleasant, so stay in the word, stay focused on your purpose of unity and let’s stay together.
Prayer Focus: Heavenly Father and all wise God, we come to you in the name of your Son Jesus, the Christ. We applaud you for being a God who is always in rhythm with what you created. We pray that you will allow your will to be done in Jesus name. We understand that there are many gifts but one body, and we ask that every leader, ministry, member, and visitor of Gethsemane Baptist Church will come together and move in order for the vision to continue to reach the lost and restore the backslider to you, dear God. Amen.
Rev. Walter “Tony” Robinson

Nov 21 - Beware of A Judgmental Spirit

Judge not, that you be not judged.” Matthew 7:1

A passage from “Our Daily Bread” dated October 17, 2005 written by D.
De Han reads, “Your Word instructs us not to judge; So, Lord, we humbly pray, “Restrain our lips when we would speak the things we should not say.”

The expansion of God’s kingdom requires lots of work and financial support from all of us. During the course of our daily activities, we should always be mindful of what we say about the way things are being done. Judging the vision of the pastor is a direct judgment of God. Once the man of God reveals to the congregation the vision for Operation Transformation, then we need to join in or become silent spectators.

What we say is often overheard by our children, because they are watching us constantly. Don’t let them hear us judging the plans for the expansion or any other projects/programs of the church. We can’t be perfect parents, but our children must see our desire to please the Lord. And when we fall short, they need to see our repentance. We teach them by both what we say and what we do.” Albert Lee (Our Daily Bread, March 19, 2003).

We must all be careful not to practice a judgmental attitude that tears others down in order to build ourselves up. This would include personal circles of friends and our church family. Paul taught us that we should exercise church discipline and trust God to be the final judge.

Prayer Focus: Pray daily that God will help us to think before we speak. Practice speaking success into the lives of our children, family and friends. Help us to guard our mouths at all time. May the words we speak be beneficial to the kingdom of God and help to save the lost.

Elva Washington

Nov 20 - Love

And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three, but the greatest of these is charity.” (KJV)

In our daily lives, we encounter many problems and disturbances which cause us to lose focus on God’s presence. In losing focus, we have a tendency to miss HIS power to conquer anything. Keep the faith, stand firm and let the enemy know you are ready to fight a good fight, and when the battle is over, God will get the glory. Know and understand that with God, the battle is not yours; it’s the LORD’s.
The purpose of this prayer is to replace pain, sorrow and brokenness with God’s love to conquer any battle with God’s blessing.
Prayer Focus: Heavenly Father, forgive me of my sins. LORD, I pray you will give me understanding and guidance to seek your ways for purpose in my life. Help me, Lord to focus on you during my trials and tribulations. When I am weak, give me strength when I am at my low point, lift me up out of my pit of pains. Lord, I know you can fix my brokenness and my sorrows.
You alone God are my God. I can find no comfort anywhere like your comfort. Lord, your peace is the peace of God, which passeth all understanding. Keep my heart and mind in your protection. Keep me from falling back into places that you have shown me to be darkness, which once separated me from you. My Lord, help me to keep love in my heart and let no words part from my lips that will keep the presence of your glory from me.
Touch me, Lord with Your finger of love, so I may love my enemies and pray for those who despitefully use me. Help me God to hear your words from heaven, so I may speak of your mercy and love. Heal and deliver me God from anything that will hinder my relationship with you. Lord, I pray you will keep me and never let me return to that which you have delivered me from. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.

Dr. Brenda Ferguson

Nov 19 - Possession In The Time of Recession

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in want.” Psalm 23:1

Headline Reads: The USA is in a recession. The housing market is not favorable for the seller; foreclosures are at an all time high, the price of food has increased, gas prices are sky high, companies are downsizing. To top it off, President Bush just recently awarded citizens with a Stimulus Check to attempt to leverage our economy, but to no avail because the USA is still in a “recession” (I said the USA – not the Saints of God).

Remind yourself that as believers you are not and will not ever be in a recession as everything belongs to our Heavenly Father. Don’t get Hung by your Tongue speaking mere words against what God has promised. Since every need is met As God promised in the scripture above, will He not do the same thing for our pledges we made for Operation Transformation? So, whether your pledge was $.10 or $10,000 – He will meet the need. It is time for the saints to take possession of our land, streets, schools, work places, and family.

What we need, God has already given us the authority to possess it through His Word. It is when we start to apply the Word, that we will see the spiritual manifestation of the Kingdom advancing like never before! It’s time to take back everything that the enemy has stolen from us.

Prayer Focus: Heavenly Father, we thank you in advance for every need that is met. We thank you, God that every pledge that has been made towards Operation Transformation is met in the name of Jesus. You said in your Word that you are able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Lord, we have heard your Word preached many times concerning our finances and prosperity, and we take both of these principles and include it with our faith. - Our testimony will be Only the Lord could have done this. Amen.

Deaconess Shelli Moran

Nov 18 - God's Chosen Vessel

"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9

Yes we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, but, God still has a purpose and a plan for our lives. Before you were formed in your mother’s womb, God knew that you would become a part of the GBC family.

As you grow in the body of Jesus Christ, I encourage you to seek God first in all things and constantly stay before him in prayer. The mission of GBC is to disciple, minister, and empower by demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ to families throughout Hampton Roads and beyond. We also encourage you to embrace the vision that God has given for this branch of Zion.

The vision for this appointed time is Operation Transformation. This is a God sized assignment and every member of this body has been chosen to participate. We must be obedient to the vision God has given and a new edifice is required to effectively do ministry with the level of excellence that God has called us to. I encourage you to become an active participant in this ministry:

Prayer Focus: Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for each person that you have chosen to become a part of GBC. Lord, as we embark on this journey, I pray that you would lead, guide, and direct your people. Father help us to be obedient to what You are calling us to do. I pray that each member will take hold of the vision and seek God in prayer each and every day. Lord, we pray for your favor upon our lives, our pastor and Operation Transformation. Father, keep us unified and bind us together in Christian love. Lord, I pray that every need will be met for Operation Transformation and your people. Father I thank you in advance for the salvation of souls. Lord, I speak complete and absolute victory in our lives. We thank you for all you have done, what are you doing now and what you are going to do. In Jesus name, I pray. God Bless All!


Deaconess Rhonda Graves

Nov 17 - Transformed Like A Butterfly

This is what God said: “Before I shaped you in the womb I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day I had holy plans for you.” — Jeremiah. 1:4-5 (Message Bible)

Isn’t it amazing to watch the life cycle of a butterfly? The process from egg, to larva, to pupa (or chrysalis), to adult is so fascinating to children, as well as to anyone else who is blessed with an opportunity to witness such a transformation. Every butterfly takes flight and fulfills God‘s created plan. We, like the butterfly, must go through a process that brings us to the beautiful change that fulfills God’s holy plans for our lives

One on One - Personal Time With God
Trust God for what He is about To Do Through Us.
Pray without ceasing.
Really Expect God To Act in Miraculous Ways.
Even Repent and Confess Sin.
Ask in Faith Believing God to Meet Every Need.
Read and Meditate on the Word.
Now Use Much Faith.
Adore and Reverence the Lord
Sacrifice to Jesus (Time, Talent, Energy, Finances).
Take Time to Worship and Praise God.
Forgive the Offenses of Others.
Include much Thanksgiving
Owe No Man Anything But Love.
Obey and Love the Lord.
Make Worry Obsolete – DO NOT WORRY!!!
Next comes Consecration-
Act Upon the Word – Do What God Says Do.
Wear God’s Spiritual Armor Daily
Trust God with Your All – God Can Handle It.
and Enjoy the Change!!!
I (Use the Power of I) I Can! I Will in Jesus’ Name.

PRAYER FOCUS: Dear Father in the mighty name of Jesus, thank you for creating us to fly in our spiritual walk with You. Your Word reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous art Thy works and that my soul knoweth right well. ( Ps 139:14) Please help us to stay faithful to you as you are faithful to us. In Jesus’ name, help us to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. Thank You for blessing us to be in a beautiful season of Transformation. We trust you with our final product. For You know the plans you have for us. In Jesus’ Holy name, we pray. Amen.

Deaconess Peggy B. Sylver

Nov 16 - Let Us Move Into The Inner Court

"Blessed is the man you choose, and cause to approach you, that he may dwell in your courts. We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, of Your holy temple.” Psalm 65:4

Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary gives a few meanings for move. (1) A step taken so as to gain an objective. (2) The action of moving from a motionless position. (3) A change of residence or location in a state of moving ahead or making progress.

In the past few months it seem as though satan has released a whole host of demons against the children of God, causing us to be in a motionless position. Sickness has come against the body of Christ as never before. I know that the Word of God is true, and I also know that the spirit of darkness is real. Now comes the choice for all of us. Are we going to read God’s Word and believe what it says? Are we going to take a step by faith and believe that we are healed in the name of Jesus?

When we continue to read and believe the word of God and pray, we will move from a motionless position into the inner court and set up residence.

Prayer Focus: Father God, I come to you in the precious name of Your Son Jesus, to say thank you. Thank you God for being so good and kind. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for giving your only Son that I might have the right to all of the promises you’ve given to me in Your Word. Lord, I just love you. I love you for giving me the opportunity to have a relationship with You. Forgive me for all of my sins and trespasses, all of the things that I have done in the flesh that have not been pleasing to You.
Allow me to enter into the inner court through Your Word where I can show more understanding to my brothers and sisters and give them the love you require me to give. In the name of your Son Jesus I pray. Amen.

Deaconess Evelyn Mitchell

Nov 15 - Can't Walk Away

"What could I do King Agrippa? I couldn’t walk away from a vision like that!” Acts 26:19

In this scripture Paul is telling his testimony to the King, in hope that the King will grant him freedom from jail. Paul is saying there is no way he can walk away from the change that Jesus has done in his life.

As we journey together in Operation Transformation, we can paraphrase the scripture. In place of King Agrippa we can put Gethsemane and say “What could we do, Gethsemane? We can’t walk away from a vision like this!” We, as one body in Christ have to serve (work), pray, encourage, love and sacrifice together no matter the cost or trials that come our way. We want to persuade others to see the gifts God has given us as a body. There are souls that are in need of salvation and a right relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Our prayer is that you will not walk away from the vision that God gave Pastor Riddick for Gethsemane.

Prayer Focus: Dear gracious and all wise God, we need Your strength and your power to do what you have entrusted in our care, not just the building that You are going to build through Your people God, but the city that You have given us. The task seems great, but we know all things are possible through you. God, we ask that you keep us on one accord through prayer. We realize that there will be sacrifices that we will have to make. Our prayer is that you will meet all of our needs according to your riches in glory. We pray for Pastor and First Lady Riddick. We pray that you will keep them strong and encouraged as they minister to your people. We pray for all the people that you will be bringing into your kingdom.
This in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Deacon Shaun Stroble
Deaconess Angela Stroble

Nov 14 - Don't Give Up - God's Got It

"So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.” Hebrews 10:35-36 (NLT)

Get ready Gethsemane; the time has come! As you know, God called us to join Him in His work. When God decides to work through His people, He often gives assignments that have “God-sized” dimensions. Why has God chosen or called us?

God has called us because He wants to reveal Himself and because He wants to bless us. Through our obedience to this call, God will bless us because He blesses those who are obedient to Him. Gethsemane, this is not the time for us to give up and throw away our trust in God.

Hebrews 10:35-36 tells us that even as we face trials and persecution, we must stand firm. We must remain faithful and patiently endure so that we may obtain God’s blessing. We are encouraged to persevere. It is important that we do not become discouraged and give into despair at the onset of trials.

So, Gethsemane, don’t give up or throw in the towel. God has this thing under control. He will see each of us through whatever trials that He sends our way according to His word. Continued obedience through the fulfillment of our pledges and constant prayer will be richly rewarded.

Prayer Focus: Almighty Father in Heaven, You know each one of us. You know the desires of our hearts. Lord, bless us in a mighty way as we come together to work for the Kingdom. Touch our minds so that we are not distracted by the current state of our surroundings. Father, bless our finances, stretch them and multiply them so that they may be used in the building and uplifting of your Kingdom. Release your loving provision that we might be blessed through our obedience to your call. And Father, as we progress forward into our assignment. Allow us to come together as one in accordance to 2 Corinthians 8:14, supporting our brothers and sisters so that together we may share in the blessings of Your word. Amen.

Cassandra Nixon

Nov 13 - Don't Give Up On The Vision

"The parched ground shall become a pool…”Isaiah 35:7

Six months ago, I became sick in the Farm Fresh parking lot. I was ready to leave when I began coughing up blood. I looked around the parking lot and saw no one in sight. I began to panic and pulled out my cell phone, but I couldn’t see the numbers on the pad. I called out to God to help me, and suddenly there was a man going to his car. I called out to him to help me and he came running to my rescue. He dialed 911 on my phone and also called my son. Now, I’ve been on this faith journey for quite some time, and I do know that if you call on God, He will come to your rescue. I honestly believe that some things He will not leave to chance but will come Himself.

This made my husband and I think about God’s vision for our church. Every God-given vision will become real if we continue to have faith and patience. God has an enormous amount of time and is never in a hurry. Yet we are always in such a frantic hurry. God wants to mold us and shape us until we get to the point where He can trust us with the reality of the vision. Ever since God gave us the vision, He has been at work. He is getting us into shape for the “transformation” he has for us.

The vision that God gives is not some unattainable castle in the sky, but a vision of what God wants here on earth. Allow the Potter to put you on his wheel and whirl you around as he desires. Don’t give up on the vision becoming a reality. When things and people get in our way and we lose focus of where God is taking us, call out to Him and He’ll come to our rescue.

Prayer: Our Father and our God, we pray that we don’t lose sight of your vision and when we do that you bring us back to where we need to be. We pray, oh, God, that we won’t lose heart and continue to be committed to your will and your way for our lives. God, we pray that when we can’t see or hear your voice that we continue to trust your plan. We won’t give up on your vision because that would be giving up on you. Amen

Deacon Herbert and Deaconess Sandra Hartwell

Nov 12 - A Spiritual Legacy

"And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.” Genesis 22:18 (KJV)


In Genesis 22, we discover that Abraham, out of obedience to God, was willing to give up his seed, Isaac, and also his chance of establishing a legacy. After all, Isaac was the son that God has promised. Abraham’s faith didn’t waiver, and due to his obedience and faith, God provided a ram in the bush. By him walking with God in obedience, through his seed, Abraham was able to establish many nations.

We have a wonderful opportunity to leave a spiritual legacy for years to come, not only for our own seed but for anyone who will receive the gospel of Jesus Christ. The opportunity will transform the lives of many, who may not receive the good news by any other means. So, let’s partner and leave a spiritual legacy that will stand the test of time by fully participating in our campaign, Operation Transformation.

Prayer Focus: Dear Father God, we come to you to say thank you because you are an awesome God. We’ve come to know you as our all in all. Whatever the situation or the circumstance, you have been whatever we have needed. So, as we come to you, we ask that you bless the entire church family. Instill in us the desire to support the vision that you have given to our pastor in the form of Operation Transformation. Bless him and his family beyond measure. We believe that you will establish that same legacy that you established in Abraham through us as we put our faith in you and be obedient to the vision. It’s in the matchless name of Jesus Christ that we do pray. Amen.


Deacon David Sheppard
Deaconess Melvina Sheppard

Nov 11 - Be Obedient and Recieve His Blessing

"If they obey and serve Him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in pleasures. But if they obey not, they shall perish by the sword and they shall die without knowledge.” Job 36:11-12 (KJV)

We as a people tend to follow the rules that are prescribed by man. We do this because of the known consequences. We obey the speed limit, we pay our taxes, and we make sure we take the trash to the curb on the correct day. As children, we obeyed our parents because of the known consequences. However, what I have come to realize is that when it comes to obeying and trusting GOD, we tend not to do as well in the obedience area.

GOD has provided us an ability to receive our provision from the work He has called us to do. GOD made a covenant with his people that provision would always be there if we were faithful to his commands.

Operation Transformation is a life-changing opportunity for us to receive a lifetime blessing. As we journeyed through Operation Transformation as a body it became clear that our faith was being challenged. There have been several campaigns at GBC before and we participated at a good commitment level – but at the same time a comfortable level (something we knew we could handle). Then came Operation Transformation with a prayer journal, twenty-four hour prayer vigils, fasting, personal testimonies, healing and restoring. It was time to stretch.

As we stretched our faith, it became even more evident the provisions that were in store. He doesn’t provide until we have the courage to take action. God can do anything but fail. Another part to the blessing is God works in His own time. God’s promises are true, but His timing is not the same as ours. As we began to trust God for our provisions and our commitment we came across many obstacles – some so great that we wondered if we were really doing His will. We persevered in our obedience, faith and trust and continued the journey.

Prayer Focus: Stretch your faith, take action, He will provide.

Deacon David G. Russell
Deaconess Gisele P. Russell

Nov 10 - A Prayer of Unity and Harmony

"Behold they are of one people, and they have all one language; and this is only the beginning of what they will do; and now nothing they have imagined they can do will be impossible to them.” Genesis 11:16 (AMP)

Lord, I pray that all of us in your Body be in perfect harmony and unity and full agreement in what we say and that there be no divisions among us even beyond the walls of our church. Lord, as we go throughout Hampton Roads and beyond, witnessing to your people and touching the hearts of the community, we pray for protection. Lord we know that Operation Transformation is not about us, but about you in saving a dying world.

Father, we pray for protection and deliverance of this city. We pray for the decision makers, Lord outside these walls as we build your church. Lord, we ask that you continue to keep us in the same mind, and in the same spirit, loving each other and praying for each others’ welfare, happiness and protection.

Father, I pray that the Holy Spirit sweep through the gates of our city to stand victorious over principalities, powers and rulers. Father continue to walk before us, as we petition your people to join together with us as we demonstrate the Love of Jesus Christ throughout Hampton Roads and beyond.

Prayer Focus: You are the great provider. We pray for the strength and the resolve to follow through with our pledge for Operation Transformation. Although it appears in the natural that money is tight, it is written that David had never seen the righteous forsaken or His seed begging for bread. God, we need you to make the provisions so that we can fulfill our commitment. We know when we seek you and your righteousness you will add all other things to us. We thank you for your promises, and we continually ask for your help to keep us on course and not waver in our commitment. Amen.

Deacon Vernon Floyd
Deaconess Terry Floyd

Nov 9 - Perfectly Joined

"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”
1 Corinthians 1:10 “And he gave some apostles; and some, prohets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-13


The word “brethren” translates to mean that all Christians are a part of God’s family. As believers, we share a unity that runs even deeper than that of blood brothers and sisters. This simply put means that we cannot allow petty differences to divide us as a Church family. We all do not have to completely agree on every issue, but we can work together harmoniously if we agree on what truly matters – Jesus Christ as Lord of all. We have a huge project to complete, and it will require us to be perfectly joined together on the issues concerning this Kingdom expansion, known as Operation Transformation.

Prayer Focus: Dear Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, I come in your presence thanking you for Gethsemane Baptist Church. You have called us to be disciples throughout Hampton Roads and beyond. As we lift our voices in one accord, we recognize that you are God, and everything that is made is made by you. We thank you God that we here at Gethsemane all speak the same thing… expanding Your Kingdom. God, there is no division among us; we are perfectly joined together in the same mind. Grant unto us the representatives here to boldly speak Your Word. God let each Group and Leaders operate in the excellence of ministry and intercessions.

God I pray that every need will be met. Therefore, we will meet the needs of your people who come – spirit, soul and body. God I thank you that the Word of God is living big in all of us and Jesus is LORD! I thank you God for your presence among us and I lift my hands and praise YOUR HOLY NAME! Amen

Lavern Thomas

Nov 8 - A New Start

Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” —1Corinthians 2:9

We are a people with a future – not spiritual nomads or wanderers, but a people of purpose and destiny. The pass is over. The future stretches out before us full of promise and possibility. We are changed people – new people.
Not avoiding decisions that must be made, nor running from responsibility because of the mistakes and failures in our past, we look toward a future based on a newness of heart created in us by God. No longer haunted by the past, we are free to choose – to make new commitments and follow new direction. In our freedom we set new standards and find new strength by which to live.
Experience gives wisdom; God gives a new heart. Our past mistakes have taught us some valuable lessons, but God has given us a new life. We have called upon our merciful God, repented, and begun to have the hope of a new heart and a new start – the beginning of a total renewal. We have found God faithful to his promise in Jeremiah 3:22: “Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding.” And we have responded: “Yes, we will come to you, for you are the Lord our God.”
What a loving, compassionate God we serve! Society may expect us to walk in guilt and shame indefinitely, but we no longer conform to what the world says. We have been transformed. Our minds have been renewed by God’s word and our hearts by His mercy.
Prayer Focus: My prayer is that we will have faith like it says in Matthew 17:20: So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have the faith as a mustard seed, you will say to the mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”
C. Denise Bryant

Nov 7 - Transform Your Mind

Jesus said unto him, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”
Mark 9:23

It appears that our country is experiencing tremendous transition; which may have had an impact on our lives. We are living in a society of great change, which has affected the economy, company downsizing, higher fuel cost, increase in food prices, unexpected change of residences, and personal circumstances in disarray.

It may feel like you are at a stand still or no way out; simply because of the impact this may have had possibly on you and our families. Regardless of how things may look on the outside, God can transform your mind into great thoughts to believe His word. He takes pleasure in solving those things that seem difficult in our lives to reflect His glory! As a believer, He can do the possible on situations that look impossible. Believe and receive what He has for you!

If you are even going to desire loving God with all your heart, mind and strength – you will have to learn to think differently. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Let Him transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Don’t be influenced by the voices and values of the culture that surround us but by the voice of God speaking through His word.

Prayer Focus: Pray that our congregation comes together in casting down old mindsets, and restore into new mindsets, believing God for great success for our church. We pray that our faith continues to strengthen, and encourage those who do not have a relationship with God become a part of our Gethsemane Church family. Let’s believe God for those who will continue to sow seed into this ministry and be blessed by the “Divine Connection.” Let’s believe God for awesome greatness in our lives and that the surrounding community becomes a part of the body of Christ. God, we thank you, we adore you for making us believers of your word. After all, the outcome is that we win! Amen.

Belinda Hawkins

Nov 6 - Warriors of God

Teaching and preaching the gospel of truth
Instilling the word in us from the roots
Fasting and praying producing results
Urging us on in spite of our faults.

Caring and nurturing steering their sheep
Knowing that some of us will get in too deep
Taking responsibility for our troubled souls
Asking “Our Father” to take control.

Telling us the difference between right and wrong
Urging the Saints of God to pray and be strong
Explaining the importance of the Whole Armor of God
Surrounding ourselves in God’s everlasting Love.

Teaching Us:
Wisdom and Understanding in the book of Ephesians
Joy and Salvation in the book of Philippians
The Fruit of the Spirits in the book of Galatians
The End Times Prophecy in the book of Revelations.

The Warriors of God have many descriptions
Through it all they must maintain a pleasing disposition
When you approach the Warriors of God,
Please show them an abundance of Love.

Prayer Focus: Prayer warriors are people who are known for regularly interceding on behalf of others before God. Prayer warriors recognize the quality of God’s personality and call on Him for intervention. Paul was the greatest example of a prayer warrior in the New Testament. Excerpts from Paul’s prayer to the church at Ephesus reads: “…And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and how long and how deep is the love of Christ.”

Alfreada Brown-Kelly

Nov 5 - A Test of Faith

"Then God said, Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.” Genesis 22:2(NIV)

There are times when one will be put to a test and one must depend on God no matter what. Keeping one’s mind on spiritual things is very important to God. Also, be the first to step to the plate without asking questions or demanding answers. Stay focused and see what God can accomplish through a positive mind. No one will ever know how and when God moves in the midst of a storm, but he performs miracles behind the scene. Abraham’s faith was tested by God, and he passed his test. As the Bible reveals, Isaac lived because of the ram in the bush.

Three points to remember from this scripture are:

Abraham did not question God.
Abraham was obedient.
Abraham was faithful.
Exercising your faith and believing in the word pleases God. Therefore, stand firm, remain faithful, and continue to trust God. According to Hebrews 13:5, God said”I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Prayer Focus: When your faith is tested, pray that you will be able to stand and pass your test. Pray that every test will make you stronger, eager, and determined to do God’s will, patiently and gracefully. Pray that fear will never engulf your mind, body, and soul when God gives you a king-sized task. Pray that we remember that Abraham moved on faith, and he moved forward, not backward. Ask God to keep you willing and ready to say, “Yes, Lord.”

Rev. Yvonne Cotton-Campbell

Nov 4 - A Beautiful Outcome

"You planned to harm me. But God planned it for good. He planned to do what is now being done. He wanted to save many lives.”
—Genesis 50:20

Whenever we consider the days whereby it happens to rain or storm, we so often associate it with a negative connotation. And the truth of the matter is that’s how we sometimes do with the storms and rainy days that we face in our daily lives; we look at it from pessimistic lens. However, we must understand that when the rain comes to an end and the storms stop raging, a beautiful rainbow is likely to appear.

When we consider that rainbow, there is a correlation to our lives and what happens when the storms we face are over. See a rainbow is created when light particularly the “Sun” comes in contact with some water (i.e. rain, mist, fog, and/or ice). When we substitute the water like situations that we face in life:
Rain = the storms of life!
Fog/Mist = the times when life seems blinding and we can’t see our way to the light!
Ice = when life is slippery!
And allow our situations to come in contact with the light, particularly the “Son”, what looks negative turns out to be a beautiful rainbow!

Prayer Focus: Father, in the name of Jesus, I humbly recognize that you are God and God alone. For that I just say ‘Thank You.” I thank you, oh Lord, for the gift of life and any daily bread that follows. Lord, I thank you, that no matter what storms that I have faced or will face, will never amount to you. I bless you, Oh God, for keeping me in the midst of the trails and tribulations that tried to wipe me out. For I’ve discovered that in your omnipotence, you may not have changed the situation but you’re so powerful and loving to come down and bear it with me. For when the storms raged, you developed my character, my passion to seek you, and my faith. More importantly, as you shined your Son, Jesus Christ, on my situation, you helped develop a spirit to proclaim that “I’m Still Standing” as your creation, a resemblance of a beautiful rainbow! So I thank you, praise you, and bless your Holy Name! In the only name that matters, the marvelous name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Rev. Rolando Pierce

Nov 3 - Teamwork

"Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor; for if they fall the one will lift up his fellow, but woe to him that is alone when he fallth for he has not another to help him up. Again; if two lie down they have heat, but how can one be warm alone. and if one prevail against him two shall withstand him, and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12

I’m one of about 1200 employees who work for the Defense Commissary Agency at the headquarters at Fort Lee. In the office where I work there are only three of us. The work is not hard, but what makes it so difficult is we just can’t seem to work together as a team. When people work together as a team sharing their talents, resources and ideas, they can accomplish more than the same number of people working individually.

All throughout the Bible we can read how much people accomplished when they came together as a team. During the Civil Rights Movement people of color came together as a team and accomplished much. During the Super Bowl the New York Giant’s football team came together as a team and accomplished much. During Operation Snack Reach our church came together as a team and much was accomplished. Barack Obama’s Campaign came together as a team and history was made. During Operation Transformation if everyone would come together and work as a team, much can and much will be accomplished.

Prayer Focus: Father, I pray that we come together as a team and accomplish your will here on earth. Help us to be like the Jews as they were rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem; where as some worked, some watched, and some prayed. Give us the spirit of unity so that we can come together as a team and accomplish the work that you have set before us. Even as we team up for Operation Transformation, help us all to be on one accord for we all have an important role to play on your team. Amen.

Deacon Ronald Chapman

Nov 2 - A New Thing Is Happening

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. The wild animals honor me, the jackals and the owls, because I provide water in the desert and streams in the wasteland, to give drink to my people, my chosen people I formed for myself that they may proclaim my praise.” Isaiah 43:18-21 (NIV)

As we approach the one year commemoration of this journey we call Operation Transformation, it seems an appropriate time to reflect on the past year to see what God has done. We have witnessed the Lord’s hand moving throughout our family. Many among us have experienced divine healing. He has blessed many among us with new jobs, promotions, and even new homes. He has continued to clear the way for our new edifice, despite obstacles and opposition. As we look back over the past year, truly we can say God has been faithful to us. Yet, the Lord says, “Forget the former things…I am doing a new thing.” So, as we reflect on all the Lord has done, we do so with the knowledge that we have not seen anything, yet! God is preparing to do a new thing among us and through us. In fact, He has already begun. So let us not be afraid of change. Let us embrace the new thing(s) that God is doing in each of our lives.

Prayer Focus: God, our Father and our Sustainer, we come to you with hearts full of thanksgiving. You have been so good to us. Even when we have disappointed you, you have remained faithful to us. Great things you have done. Still, we know that you are doing a new thing. Though it does not yet appear what all you will do in our lives, we submit ourselves to you and commit ourselves to your way. Please help us to be patient as you perfect your will for our lives. Help us to keep open minds and receptive hearts for the new thing(s) that you are doing and that you will do. Have your way in us, O Lord. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.


Rev. Shawn Knight

Nov 1 - Breakfast With Jesus

“Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to land, full of large fish, one hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not broken. Jesus said to them, “Come and eat breakfast.” John 21:11-12a

How refreshing it is to come home after a hard day’s work and find a cooked meal waiting, prepared especially for you by a loved one! Jesus not only gave the disciples a miraculous catch of large fish, but He also had breakfast waiting on shore - prepared and ready to eat.

Just as Jesus greeted the disciples with “Come and eat breakfast,” He teaches us to come to Him to meet all of our needs. He asks us to come to Him for all of the provisions of our faith – our health, families and finances to name a few.

We have successfully embarked on “Operation Transformation” and are now fulfilling our financial pledges. This cannot be our only focus during this campaign. Just as Jesus had allowed the disciples to drag the net and fill it with so many fish, this is still our commission. We are to be just like the disciples; until the return of Jesus, our task should be to remain with the fish (new Christians) so none are lost.

We are spiritual refreshed as we daily read the Word. Awakening to God’s love and care each morning is the best spiritual appetite we can have to start our day.

Prayer Focus: Pray daily for an increase of the unsaved to become saved so our “net” will be filled and never broken in spirit for the love of Jesus Christ. Pray that our stewardship of talent, time and finances will continue to be pleasing to God throughout this campaign.


Laura Greenfield

Oct 31 - Press On After Christ

“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” Philippians 3:12 (NIV)

In this pericope Paul states that there is a destiny of perfection that must compel believers to press on toward the fullness of Christ and His Glory. The Lord’s purpose for His redeemed one goes beyond our sins of the past. Paul was pressing on for so much more! Paul was reaching for a goal in Christ Jesus. Paul’s life was not finished when he surrendered his life to Jesus on the road to Damascus. His life was completely transformed to one that was running a new race – a race dedicated to apprehending all that Christ had in mind for him.

Jesus Christ has taken hold of you by His grace with a destiny in His heart for you. But you must press on after Him in order to be all that Jesus desires you to be if you want to achieve, complete, pursue, or grasp hold of all that Christ Jesus had purposed for you.

We must allow the revelation to surface daily in our hearts that only what you do for Christ Jesus will last. This will give you the purpose to press after Christ Jesus. You will know you have to endure hardness as a good soldier. As Paul would say, “It takes power working within you when pressing after Christ Jesus.” That gives Him the opportunity to accomplish the plans that He has for you and through you for the Kingdom of God. Have you ever felt like just giving up on life’s struggles, but it suddenly entered into your mind that Jesus did not give up on you? You never would have made it, but Jesus has always been by your side. Keep on Pressing After Christ Jesus!

Prayer Focus: Our Father, we praise you for the destiny of perfection that you have for our lives. We worship you as being worthy of “pressing on” toward all you have offered your people. Lord, stir within our hearts the determination to carry out your purpose. God, we repent of those things that hinder us wholeheartedly, from seeking the destiny for our lives. We pray for the leaders in our church to have the same heart as Paul to relentlessly pursue Christ. We Pray In Jesus Name. Amen.

Rev. Darlene Smith

Oct 30 - The Lord God, My God Is With You

Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a temple as a sanctuary. Be strong and do the work.” David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.” (I Chronicles 28:10, 20, NIV)

God-sized assignments can be at times overwhelming. There are often tough challenges and stiff opposition that commands our attention along the way. There are times in our journey when our focus is shifted from God to the task before us. The difficult moments in God-sized assignments often arise after you have begun to exercise your faith and make great strides for God.

David knew what it was like for God to ask him to do something significant and important for the kingdom. After all, it was David who challenged the Philistine giant from Gath named Goliath. Yes, David knew what it was like to be called to do something great for God and then face opposition along the way. In 1 Chronicles, Chapter 28, as David encourages his son Solomon in his assignment, David reminds Solomon that no matter what God has called you to do and no matter where you are along the journey, “He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished!!”

Just like David, we too have a God-sized assignment. The assignment is not just for construction of a new edifice. It is also for building new lives. The truth of the matter is that we have faced the giants and we are still standing. We have come through some opposition, but we are still here. There have been some challenges, but we are still on course. Why? Because the Lord God, my God is with us and he will be with us until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished!!
Prayer Focus: Let us pray for the success of the building project. Pray that we would continue with whole hearted devotion and that we would press toward the end amid all obstacles and opposition. Pray continually for God’s strength as we make our way along this journey and remember – “THE LORD GOD, MY GOD IS WITH YOU”.

Reverend Todd Smith

Oct 29 - Stay In The Word

“Blessed is the man (or woman) that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” (Psalm 1:1-3)

Many times it seems like we have a hard time in different situations in our lives. The word “blessed” is translated happy. Yet the simple solution is found here in the first three verses of Psalm 1. We are told that in order to be happy that we simply need to delight ourselves in the Word of God.
The man who is characterized as blessed is first described according to the things he does not do, just as we begin with children by teaching them what they must not do. He is not a companion of the unrighteous.
Then he is described by what he should do. How can we be happy? Meditate in the “Law of the Lord.” He who thinks grows. The law on which he meditates is not to be thought about but practically obeyed. Also, the results of reading the bible and studying are a beauty of one’s character, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Everything he takes in hand becomes successful.
What a richly flowing brook is to the tree that is planted, such is the word of God to him who devotes himself to it; it makes him ever fruitful. The tree by the river runs its roots down into the refreshing stream beneath, and when the upland tree withers and turns brown, the tree by the river is as green as ever. Christians meet the troubles of life like other people, but if they devote wholeheartedly to do God’s will, delight in the law of the Lord, they will have peace in the midst of their troubles.
If as a church body, we constantly meditate on the Word of God, these verses remind us that in whatever we do, we will prosper. We will prosper because the word of God has the answer and solution for all problems. Also, as you study and meditate on God’s word, creative ideas will enter your mind. These ideas can make you in demand, help you solve valuable problems and cause wealth to flow into your life.
Prayer Focus: Pray that all of Gethsemane will stay in the word. Pray that we will find time to read, meditate, study and apply the commands of God on a daily basis. Pray that we will find the time to not only attend Sunday worship service, but also Church School, Bible Study, First Principles, and Eagle/Hebrew School classes. Pray that all of us will stay rooted and grounded in the Word.
Rev. Ann Stovall

Oct 28 - Save Time - Let God Counsel You

But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken” Psalm 33:11

Many of us go to our parents for counsel. Others go to friends who, like Job’s friends - mean well but do not understand the entire situation. Some of us even go on line to determine what the latest answer is to our problem. After all, why should we waste time—just go to the experts. They wouldn’t have a web site if they didn’t have all the answers, would they?
After we get totally frustrated, we finally, and by “accident”, meet our guardian angel who says, “Why not go to God? He is the only one who knows everything about your situation”.

You see, God sent our guardian angel because He knew that we only trust the advice of someone who has flesh on him/her. When we finally go to God, we discover that He was always just a prayer away. God is trustworthy when others are not. God cares about us when others do not. God’s only true motive is that He loves us unconditionally and wants what is best for us, even when we don’t want it for ourselves.

Prayer Focus: Father, we lift you up and praise your holy and mighty name. We come to you because you are an all wise and almighty God! Please forgive us for not coming to you first for everything that we need. Please help us to remember that whenever we need you, you are always there. All we have to do is call on your name. You are Elohim, our Creator and Sustainer! You are Jehovah, our GOD and LORD! You are Jehovah Jireh, our Provider! You are Jehovah Rapha, our Healer! You are absolutely everything that we need.
Now we ask Father, that from this day forth, we will always come to you for guidance and direction. We lift up Operation Transformation before you. We know success is already done. Therefore, we continue to stand on your word and walk in obedient according to your will. We also know in doing this, the new edifice will be manifested. Father, we realize, that Operation Transformation is not just about a new edifice—it’s about transforming every aspect of our lives. It’s about how you will manifest the funds that are already there for us, how you will heal our bodies and how you will hold back the hand of the enemy from distracting us from achieving what you have for us. We thank you, in advance for protecting our leaders, especially our Pastor, Rev. Riddick, who cares for us enough to help us to grow spiritually, emotionally, and physically. We know you will do these things and more for your Glory and Honor. We ask this prayer in the wonderful and marvelous name of Jesus Christ. Amen!

Leading Lady Vera Riddick

Oct 27 - Transformed By The Knowledge of God's Word

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
— Philippians 4:13

I once read a story of how a young man was transformed simply by someone telling him what he could do and who he could become. The story reads as follows: “When VICTOR SERIBRIAKOFF was 15, his teacher told him he would never finish school and that he should drop out and learn a trade. Victor took the advice and for the next 17 years he was an itinerant doing a variety of odd jobs. He had been told he was a ‘dunce’ and for 17 years he acted like one. When he was 32, an amazing transformation took place. An evaluation revealed that he was a genius with an IQ of 161. Guess what? That’s right; he started acting like a genius. Since that time, he has written books, secured a number of patents and has become a successful businessman. Perhaps the most significant event for the former drop out was his election as chairman of the International Mensa Society. The Mensa Society has only one membership qualification – an IQ of 140.”

This story reminds each of us of the transformation that can occur when we believe God’s truth for our lives. Satan often tells us what we cannot do and who we are not to keep us in bondage and from experiencing the abundance that God has in store. However, through His Holy Word, God reveals to us who we are and what we can do and more importantly what he can do when we surrender our will to His will.

As we celebrate the first anniversary of Operation Transformation, allow me to encourage us all to keep focus and work toward the goal God gave us a year ago. The Word of God reveals to us that we “can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.” Remember, we are children of God and He’s working His will out through each of us.

Prayer Focus: Thank You God for revealing to me who I am and what I am able to do through the strength you provide. I lay my Operation Transformation commitment before you and ask that you would continue to provide so that I may faithfully fulfill the commitment made a year ago. By faith I believe that it is already done. Amen.

Pastor Dwight Riddick

SHORT COURSE ON FASTING

In over fifty references to fasting in the Old and New Testaments, there is no specific command to fast, with the exception of the Day of Atonement for the Jews. In the New Testament it was assumed that fasting would be a part of the normal devotional life of the believer.
Matthew 6:16 “When you fast do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.”
Matthew 9:15 “Jesus answered, ‘How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.’”
If these verses indicate that fasting should be a normal discipline in the church (and the numerous examples of fasting support the idea), then what does it mean to fast?

What is the purpose of fasting, and how does one go about fasting?

1. Definition of “Fasting”- going without food and sometimes water voluntarily, generally for religious purposes. There are four types of fasting referred to in the Bible.

• a. Normal fast, going without food for up to 40 days (Exodus.34:28; Ezra 8:21,23; Daniel 6:18; Luke 2:37; Mark 2:18; Matthew 4:2; Acts 13:2-3; 14-23 and others).
  


• b. Partial fast, abstaining from certain foods (Daniel 10:3).
  


• c. Absolute fast, going without food or water no more than 3 days (Esther 4:16; this is very rare in the Bible).
  


• d. Voluntary group fast, called for a specific reason for a specific group of people (1 Samuel 7:6; 2 Chronicles 20:3; Jonah 3:5; and others).

2. Purpose of Fasting

• a. Worship-it must be God-centered, God-initiated, and God-ordained
  


• b. at times, fasting is an expression of distress, grief, or repentance
  


• c. Fasting is the preparation for God to give guidance and renewal (Daniel 9; Ex. 24).
  


• d. Fasting reveals the things that control us that are sustained “by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”
  


• e. Fasting reminds us that we are sustained “ by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”
  


• f. Fasting helps keep our balance in life (1 Corinthians 9:27; Psalm 35:13).

3. Practice of Fasting

a. For an occasional fast, eat a light meal (fruit, vegetables, yogurt, etc.) prior to beginning. Drink a lot of water. Skip 2-3 meals and break the fast with fruit juices followed by a light meal. Avoid oils, dressings and starch for a couple of meals.

b. when starting a regular discipline of fasting, begin slowly with a partial 24-hour (2 meal) fast once a week for several weeks while drinking fruit juices.

c. Monitor your inner attitudes and maintain a worshipful attitude.

d. Break the fast with a light meal of fruits and vegetables.

e. After a few weeks, try a normal fast, drinking lots of water only.

f. Always be careful not to call attention to what you are doing.

g. After succeeding with this for several weeks, move to a 36-hour ( 3 meal) fast

h. Seek the Lord regarding extended fasts. Get additional information on conducting extended fasts and clear the fast with your physician. (People with certain physical conditions should not fast.)

i. Remember that the major work of scriptural fasting is in the realm of the spirit.

j. If skipping meals is not possible, try fasting certain types of foods (like sweets or soft drinks), or you can fast activities (like TV or sports). It’s important to convert that time to devotional activities, not just abstain from them.