Understanding the Role of Prayer in Spiritual Transformation

By: Joshua Finley

In a world driven by technology and scientific explanation, the question of whether miracles may still occur resonates deeply within religious communities. At Bethel Deliverance International Church, the belief in potential modern-day miracles isn’t just theological theory – it’s woven into the very fabric of their ministry’s growth from humble beginnings to international impact.

“We believe that the redemptive work of Christ on the cross can provide healing for the human spirit, soul, and body in response to faith-filled prayer,” states one of the church’s fundamental beliefs. This conviction forms the foundation of their approach to what they perceive as modern miracles, particularly through their robust prayer ministry.

The story of Bethel itself is often viewed by members as extraordinary. What began in 1987 with just seven committed believers under Bishop Eric A. Lambert, Jr.’s leadership has transformed into a large international ministry. The church’s origin story begins with what they describe as divine instruction: “God’s instructions to Bishop Lambert were very simple: ‘Find a building, and start a church.'”

That simple directive led to their first service in an office complex on Palm Sunday 1988. From there, the church experienced what members describe as significant growth, expanding to three Sunday services and developing over 40 specialized ministries. This progression is viewed by many as a response to their faith and commitment to prayer.

Prayer, in fact, stands as a cornerstone of Bethel’s approach to what they interpret as modern miracles. The church maintains an intensive prayer schedule that includes daily morning and midday prayer sessions, Tuesday and Friday afternoon prayer and Bible study, Wednesday night prayer and Bible study, and perhaps notably, “All Night Prayer” on the first and third Fridays of every month.

“We believe that the baptism in the Holy Ghost, according to Acts 2:4, is available to believers who ask for it,” states another of their core beliefs, emphasizing their expectation of spiritual experiences in contemporary times. This belief is expressed through their various prayer gatherings, where members come seeking divine intervention in their daily lives.

The establishment of their Community Outreach Ministry in 1991, later incorporated as Lights of The World, Inc., represents another aspect of their belief in faith-based provision. This ministry focuses on meeting social and temporal needs in their community, with some viewing its impact as a reflection of divine care.

Bishop Lambert’s own journey reflects this belief in contemporary divine encounters. His call to ministry in 1974 came through what he describes as “the voice of the Lord” calling him to feed His lamb and His sheep. The passage that inspired him, Isaiah 6:8 – “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, ‘Here am I; send me'” – represents his understanding of direct divine communication in modern times.

The church’s expansion to international status in 2004, becoming Bethel Deliverance International Church, marked another milestone that many within the ministry attribute to their faith. This growth maintained their foundational focuses on “prayer, education, evangelism, and fellowship” while extending their reach globally.

Through their television broadcast, “Climbing Higher,” the church shares stories of faith and transformation with a broader audience. This media ministry serves as a platform for proclaiming what they describe as “the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ,” including testimonies of personal spiritual experiences.

Bishop Lambert’s educational background, including studies at multiple Bible institutes and degrees in Psychology, brings an interesting perspective to the topic of faith and supernatural experiences. His academic training, combined with his spiritual leadership, informs his approach to discussions on contemporary divine intervention.

The church’s commitment to education through the Bethel Institute of Biblical Studies (formerly Bethel Bible Institute) demonstrates their belief that faith-based experiences should be considered within the context of sound biblical teaching. The institute’s focus on “life application” helps members interpret spiritual encounters in their daily lives while maintaining theological grounding.

“We believe in the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost, by whose indwelling the Christian can strive to live a holy and separated life in this present world,” states another core belief. This emphasis on present-day spiritual empowerment reinforces their conviction that faith plays a role in divine experiences.

The church’s mission “to bring a real Jesus to the world” encompasses their belief in God’s ongoing involvement in people’s lives. Their statement that “God, while living in heaven, does indeed care for the everyday needs of humanity” reflects their conviction that faith and prayer remain significant components of their spiritual practice.

Through their various ministries – from Youth Church to Children’s Church, from daily prayer sessions to community outreach – Bethel maintains a consistent message: faith is an active element of contemporary Christian experience.

For those interested in exploring the topic of faith-based experiences or witnessing Bethel’s approach to contemporary faith, the church welcomes visitors to their services. Service times and additional information can be found at betheldeliverance.org, and their ongoing ministry can be followed on social media at betheldeliveranceinternationalchurch.

The church’s steadfast belief in spiritual transformation, grounded in their statement of faith and demonstrated through their various ministries, offers a perspective on divine engagement that bridges ancient faith and contemporary experience. Whether through prayer, community service, or global outreach, Bethel Deliverance International Church continues to share testimonies of what many see as divine intervention in today’s world.

Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational and inspirational purposes only. The experiences and perspectives shared are based on faith-based interpretations and individual testimonies. This article does not claim to provide scientific, medical, or legal evidence of supernatural events. Readers are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals regarding any personal, medical, or legal matters.

 

 

Published by Liz S

Adele Brown’s Network Marketing Success: Overcoming Challenges

Both personal challenges and determination have shaped Adele Brown’s path to success in Network Marketing. For more than two decades, Adele searched for work-from-home opportunities that would allow her to balance family life while generating income. However, dealing with anxiety and fear of social situations made it difficult for her to pursue many opportunities. Despite these challenges, Adele explored different opportunities and found that Network Marketing aligned with her goals, providing a platform for her to develop her business.

Early Obstacles and Setbacks

Adele’s first introduction to Network Marketing occurred with Melaleuca, a well-known personal care company. Although she was intrigued by the success stories presented during opportunity calls, Adele faced challenges in taking immediate action. The fear of selling products and the lack of social media tools at the time made her hesitant to commit fully. Despite signing up with various Network Marketing businesses, Adele struggled to engage with others and share her experiences. As a result, she felt stuck, unable to move forward, and often doubted her abilities.

A Shift in Perspective: Discovering TLC

Adele’s journey took a meaningful turn when she came across Total Life Changes (TLC), a company aligned with her values and goals. She was particularly inspired by the story of Nathalie Nicole Smith, a Network Marketer who had faced personal challenges but continued to pursue success in the business. Nathalie’s story motivated Adele and showed that overcoming obstacles while working in Network Marketing is possible.

This realization motivated Adele to take a second look at her approach. She joined TLC with a renewed determination, focusing on building a business grounded in health, wellness, and personal growth. Adele saw the opportunity to personally benefit from the products and share her experiences with others, hoping she could help improve their lives, as she had experienced herself.

Building Connections: The Power of Attraction Marketing

Attraction marketing became a central focus in Adele’s approach to building her Network Marketing business. She learned that success was not simply about selling products but building genuine relationships and fostering trust. Adele began to engage with others on social media by commenting on posts, offering compliments, and starting meaningful conversations. This approach allowed her to connect with like-minded individuals interested in similar health and wellness goals.

Adele also focused on creating content that would inspire and motivate others. She knew that building a business in Network Marketing took time, so she remained patient and committed to the long-term process. By maintaining a consistent presence on social media and consistently engaging with her followers, Adele gradually built a community that trusted her and saw her as a valuable resource.

Guiding Principles: Empowerment, Respect, and Gratitude

Adele’s approach to Network Marketing is rooted in core values that guide her business decisions and interactions with others. These values include:

  1. Empowerment: Adele believes that success in Network Marketing is possible for many, with the right mindset and effort, regardless of their challenges. She is dedicated to helping others, particularly those facing mental health struggles, realize their potential. Adele stresses the importance of self-belief and resilience, inspiring others to pursue their goals despite fear or self-doubt.
  2. Respect: Adele values respect in all her business dealings. She treats her customers and team members kindly, fostering trust and strengthening relationships within her network.
  3. Gratitude: Gratitude is central to Adele’s business philosophy. She appreciates the opportunities Network Marketing has given her and encourages others to make the most of every chance. She reminds her audience that success takes time but is achievable with hard work and persistence.

Impacting Lives Through Network Marketing

Adele’s vision extends beyond personal success. She aims to create a positive impact by helping others improve their health and financial situation. Whether using health products or exploring business opportunities, Adele believes that Network Marketing can provide valuable benefits. She views her work as empowering individuals, particularly those seeking to improve their current situation and enhance their lives.

Adele measures her success not by financial gains but by the number of people she has supported. Her fulfillment comes from seeing others progress, whether they improve their health or start their businesses. Adele is passionate about fostering a community that encourages growth, support, and personal development.

Embracing the Journey

Adele’s journey into Network Marketing has been one of self-discovery, growth, and overcoming adversity. Through persistence and dedication, she has transformed her life and built a thriving business. By focusing on relationships, personal development, and empowering others, Adele has found success far beyond financial rewards.

Her story serves as a reminder that success is possible for anyone through hard work, determination, and a positive mindset, regardless of challenges. Adele’s journey inspires others, and her commitment to supporting others in improving their lives remains at the heart of her business.

For more information, you can visit Adele’s Facebook and follow her on Instagram.

Disclaimer: Testimonials in this article reflect personal experiences and aren’t guaranteed. Results vary based on effort, experience, and commitment. Use your judgment.

 

Published by Zane L.

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Your Dream Home Abroad

By: Jeremy Marlow

Michael Cobb, the author of How to Buy Your Home Overseas: And Get It Right The First Time!, offers a wealth of insights into the often complicated world of international real estate. His book is an essential guide for navigating the challenges and opportunities of purchasing property in a foreign country, equipping readers with tools and strategies to approach the process confidently and clearly.

The Idea That Started It All

Cobb’s inspiration for writing the book comes from observing the common pitfalls people face when buying property overseas. He highlights a phenomenon he calls “Margarita Madness,” where potential buyers are swept up by the allure of exotic locations and make hasty decisions based on emotion rather than due diligence. “Many buyers believe they know what they’re doing in an unfamiliar environment, which is often a recipe for trouble,” Cobb explains. His book encourages readers to adopt the right mindset and shift their approach to make informed and successful purchases.

Beyond individual decisions, Cobb identifies macro trends driving the international real estate interest surge. Retirees on fixed incomes seek affordable, warmer climates, digital nomads take advantage of remote work opportunities, and many yearn for authentic communities outside their home countries. These trends fuel the demand for overseas properties, and Cobb’s book aims to prepare buyers for the unique challenges associated with such investments.

Who Will Benefit Most?

The book is designed for a broad audience, including retirees, investors, adventurers, and digital nomads. Cobb notes that the modern expat isn’t just a retiree but often a remote worker looking to embrace a new lifestyle earlier in life.

How to Buy Your Home Overseas provides tailored advice for investors and expatriates. Investors benefit from transactional insights, such as understanding property values and growth potential, while expatriates gain practical guidance on adapting to life abroad. The book becomes a comprehensive resource for anyone considering an international move or investment by covering these perspectives.

Navigating Legal and Financial Hurdles

One of the significant challenges in international real estate is understanding the differences in legal and financial systems, particularly in developing countries. Cobb emphasizes the importance of caution when navigating these unfamiliar waters. Transactional costs, such as transfer taxes and stamp duties, are often higher than buyers from developed countries might expect. Poorly informed decisions can lead to significant financial and emotional consequences.

Cobb warns buyers to be especially vigilant about property titles, as title systems in some developing nations may not be as robust as those in North America or Europe. He advises hiring reputable legal counsel—sometimes even two lawyers—to verify property titles and avoid potential fraud. For instance, in Panama, some sellers misrepresent “Rights of Possession” (ROP) as titles, leading to legal disputes. A second local lawyer can provide additional scrutiny to ensure buyers are protected from these risks.

Reflecting on his journey, Cobb shares the advice he wishes he had received earlier: take action sooner and maintain a humble attitude. “Forget my assumptions,” he says, emphasizing the importance of learning from local experts and adapting to new environments. He also advocates for “land banking,” or purchasing undeveloped properties in emerging markets, as a long-term investment strategy.

ECI Development: Building Communities Abroad

As the CEO of ECI Development, Cobb has applied these principles to create a thriving real estate business in Latin America. His company stands out by understanding North American consumer expectations and focusing on building vibrant communities. This includes practical considerations, like ensuring reliable hot water and adequate electrical outlets, and larger goals, such as designing communities that foster social connections.

Cobb explains that expatriates often leave behind established social networks, making it crucial to create environments where new relationships can thrive. By incorporating new urbanist principles into community planning, ECI Development ensures that its properties meet residents’ functional and emotional needs.

Proud Accomplishments and Meaningful Impact

Cobb takes pride in ECI Development’s ability to balance financial success with social and environmental responsibility. The company’s projects benefit homeowners and local communities through sustainable employment, improved infrastructure, and corporate social initiatives.

One notable example is the Gran Pacifica Beach and Golf Resort in Nicaragua. Once a remote cattle pasture, the site has become a flourishing community with year-round road access and electricity. Collaborations with organizations like Rotary and USAID have further supported local health, education, and economic development initiatives.

ECI’s commitment to the community extends to life-changing acts of service, such as facilitating rare medical procedures for those in need. Cobb recalls one instance where his company helped a young Nicaraguan boy undergo life-saving surgery in the United States. These efforts reflect ECI’s dedication to ethical practices and meaningful impact.

A Blueprint for Success

Michael Cobb’s How to Buy Your Home Overseas offers a practical roadmap for navigating the complex world of international real estate. His insights, coupled with ECI Development’s commitment to community-building and sustainability, demonstrate the transformative potential of overseas property ownership. Whether you’re a retiree seeking an affordable paradise, an investor looking for opportunities, or an aspiring expat chasing a dream, Cobb’s book provides invaluable tools to make your journey a successful one.

Find your copy of How to Buy Your Home Overseas on Amazon.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Purchasing property overseas involves risks, including legal complexities, regulatory differences, and potential market fluctuations. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough due diligence, consult with qualified legal and financial professionals, and carefully assess risks before making any investment decisions. Neither the author nor ECI Development guarantees specific outcomes or returns on international property investments.

Published by Stephanie M.