Monthly Archives: February 2025

Bible Study in Quincy

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On a crisp evening in the city of Quincy, nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, a small group gathered for their weekly Bible study. The meeting took place in a cozy space above a mom-and-pop bookstore in the heart of the historic downtown. The streets below bustled with life—diners savoring meals at the Riverside Grill, couples strolling along the picturesque riverfront, and friends laughing outside atmospheric bars and lounges. Inside, however, the focus was set on something eternal: God’s Word.

Leading the group was Violet, a woman known for her wisdom and unwavering faith. She had a heart for teaching the Scriptures and helping others understand the nature of God. That evening, she introduced the topic: The Unchanging Will of God and Faith for Healing.

God’s Will Does Not Change

Violet opened her Bible and read James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” She paused, allowing the words to sink in.

“God is the same yesterday, today, and forever,” she said, looking around the room. “That means His will for us doesn’t change. If He was a healer in the past, He is a healer today.”

The group nodded, taking in the message. One of the members, John, a local fisherman who often kayaked on the Mississippi, raised his hand. “But why do some people say that healing was only for biblical times?”

Violet smiled. “Good question. But think about this—if healing was only for the past, that would mean God’s love and power were also limited to the past. But we see throughout Scripture that God’s character remains the same. Jesus healed the sick wherever He went, and He never refused anyone who came to Him in faith.”

She turned to Matthew 8:2-3: “A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, ‘Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.’ Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.”

Violet closed her Bible and looked at the group. “Jesus didn’t hesitate. He didn’t say, ‘Maybe.’ He said, ‘I am willing.’ That same willingness is true today.”

Faith Brings Healing

The discussion turned to faith. Could a person’s belief truly bring about healing? To illustrate, Violet shared a story from Mark 5:25-34, the account of the woman with the issue of blood.

“This woman had suffered for twelve years. Doctors couldn’t help her. She had every reason to give up, but she heard about Jesus. And what did she do? She pushed through the crowd, believing that if she just touched His garment, she would be healed. And what happened?”

“She was healed,” a woman named Sarah whispered, her eyes shining.

“Yes!” Violet exclaimed. “And what did Jesus say? ‘Daughter, your faith has healed you.’”

The room fell silent as the weight of the words settled over them. Faith was not passive—it was active.

John leaned forward. “So, you’re saying that faith is a key to receiving healing?”

“Absolutely,” Violet affirmed. “Hebrews 11:6 tells us that ‘without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.’ Faith isn’t just believing God exists—it’s believing He still moves in our lives.”

Applying Faith in Everyday Life

Violet encouraged the group to share how they could apply faith for healing in their own lives.

Sarah spoke first. “I’ve been struggling with migraines for years. I’ve prayed, but maybe I haven’t truly believed that God wants to heal me.”

Violet nodded. “Faith isn’t hoping something might happen. It’s being confident in what God has already promised.”

An older gentleman named Robert, who used to work at the historic Dick Brothers Brewery District, added, “I’ve always prayed for others to be healed, but never for myself. Maybe I need to trust that God cares about my health too.”

“Yes,” Violet said, “Healing isn’t just for others—it’s for you.”

Closing in Prayer

As the evening drew to a close, Violet led the group in prayer. “Father, we thank You for Your unchanging will. You are our healer, the same today as You were in the past. We choose to believe in Your Word and trust in Your love. Strengthen our faith, and may we see Your healing power in our lives.”

As the group dispersed, some headed to grab a late-night bite at Seoul 2 Soul Bistro, while others lingered to discuss what they had learned. But one thing was certain—faith had been stirred in their hearts that night in Quincy, and lives were beginning to change.

The Rockford Revival: A Church Conference in Illinois

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The city of Rockford, known for its lush gardens and rich history, became a beacon of faith and spiritual revival during the recent church conference led by the esteemed speaker, Elizabeth. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Anderson Japanese Gardens, where waterfalls cascaded gently and koi swam serenely in their ponds, believers gathered to seek renewal, wisdom, and encouragement in their faith journey.

A Call to Renewal in the City of Gardens

The first day of the conference began with a powerful message from Elizabeth, who stood before the crowd with conviction and grace. She opened with the words, “Then I heard the Lord speak in His holy splendor.” This set the tone for an atmosphere charged with expectancy. Just as Rockford flourished with vibrant gardens, she urged attendees to cultivate their spiritual lives with the same dedication and care.

Elizabeth spoke of the importance of faith in times of trial, reminding the congregation that God’s hand is not too short to save. She recounted the story of a poor woman who knelt in prayer through a cold, pitiless night, listening to the labored breathing of a loved one who was near death. “All through that darkness,” Elizabeth said, “she listened and waited, knowing that God was near.” Her words resonated deeply, stirring the hearts of those present, reminding them that the Spirit works in unseen ways, even in the hardest moments.

Faith Through the Trials

The sessions continued with testimonies of transformation and perseverance. A woman shared her journey of being diagnosed with a kidney condition in December 2009. Her doctor’s words had been grim, but through faith and persistence, she witnessed God’s hand guiding her through each step of the way. Elizabeth reminded the congregation that we cannot earn anything by self-effort; it is by grace that we are sustained.

Drawing from the life of William Seymour, who arrived in Los Angeles in 1906 to preach, Elizabeth spoke of the power of unwavering faith. “Like Seymour,” she said, “we must be willing to press on, even when the world doubts us.” She encouraged believers to see hardships not as faults or failures but as holy moments where God’s presence is magnified.

The Breakthrough Moment

On the final day, Elizabeth’s message centered on breakthrough and restoration. “Jesus, why weren’t you here?” she quoted from the story of Lazarus, reflecting on the times when believers feel abandoned in their struggles. But just as Jesus raised Lazarus, she assured them that God was still in the business of miracles.

A stirring testimony came from a man who had lived a life of violence and pain. Once known for his anger, he encountered Christ and was transformed. His whole family turned to the Lord, and soon, their neighbors were won over as well. “There has been an intense refining fire in the body of Christ,” Elizabeth declared, “but this fire is preparing the church for a greater outpouring.”

As the sun set over Rockford, attendees left renewed and inspired, ready to carry forth the seeds of faith into their own communities. Elizabeth’s words would echo long after the conference, a lasting reminder that God’s presence was ever near, nurturing their souls just as Rockford’s gardens thrived under the hand of their caretakers.

Grafton Church Newsletter – Written by Eleanor

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Healing and Redemption Along the Great River Road

Nestled along the Great River Road, our beautiful town of Grafton, found at the meeting point of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, has long been a place of history and community. Once a bustling hub for steamboats and river traders, our small town is now a destination for visitors drawn to its breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality. Yet, beyond the scenic waterfront and charming wooden guesthouses, God is working miracles in our midst, bringing healing, restoration, and redemption to His people.

A Season of Breakthrough and Renewal

As we walk in faith, the Lord is moving powerfully in Grafton, revealing His mercy and love. We have seen breakthroughs across families and households, with many experiencing divine healing, both physically and spiritually. Just as travelers once found refuge in our town during their river journeys, so too are many finding rest and renewal in Christ.

Our sister in faith, Eleanor, has been witness to many of these testimonies. She writes:

“During our weekly gathering, I felt an urgency from the Lord to share about obedience and trust. As we leaned into worship, I saw in the spirit that He was bringing a fresh wave of healing to those who had been weighed down by burdens, past wounds, and uncertainties. Many who had come seeking answers left that evening renewed in strength and purpose. Our God is faithful!”

We recall the words of Joel 3:10: ‘Let the weak say, I am strong.’ It is in our weakness that His strength is revealed.

The Power of Community and Prayer

Much like the river confluence that defines our town, the coming together of believers in unity has released a fresh outpouring of God’s spirit in Grafton. Whether at our weekly prayer meetings or during spontaneous gatherings at local coffee shops and homes, we have witnessed His presence moving mightily.

Eleanor shares another powerful moment:

“One Sunday morning, as prayers were lifted in our congregation, a woman stepped forward seeking healing from years of physical pain. Hands were laid upon her, and we rebuked the spirit of infirmity in Jesus’ name. Within moments, she declared that the pain had vanished completely. Tears of joy filled the sanctuary as we gave praise to God for His mercy and healing touch.”

This moment is a testament to the power of faith and the truth found in Mark 16:18: ‘Believers will lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.’

From the Riverbanks to the Hilltops: A New Season of Boldness

Beyond the healing taking place in individuals, there is also a revival stirring among our local churches. Much like the adventurers who flock to Grafton Zipline Adventures or ascend to Aerie’s Resort Winery for panoramic views, we are being called to new heights in our faith.

God is urging us to embrace boldness, casting off fear and stepping into the authority He has given us. Eleanor captures this call to action:

“In a vision, I saw believers standing atop the bluffs of Grafton, looking over the vast expanse of the rivers below. The Lord impressed upon me that we are to be watchmen, standing firm in faith, declaring His truth, and resisting the enemy. This is not a time to shrink back, but to advance in His strength.”

James 4:7 reminds us: ‘Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.’

A Time for Restoration and Overflow

As Grafton enters a new season of growth and renewal, we believe that God is restoring what has been lost. Just as the river provides for the land and nurtures life along its banks, so too is the Lord pouring out blessings upon His people. Where there has been weariness, He is bringing rest; where there has been lack, He is bringing abundance.

Eleanor leaves us with these final words of encouragement:

“To those who feel they have missed their season, God says, ‘I am redeeming the time.’ His plans have not been thwarted. If you are willing to step forward in faith, you will see His promises fulfilled in greater measure than ever before.”

Let us stand together, Grafton, as a church and as a community, believing in His goodness and expecting His miracles. May this newsletter serve as a reminder that in Christ, we find healing, redemption, and the power to walk boldly in His name.

Blessings to you all,
Eleanor