Exclusive Stories

Author, Susan

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Hi Dr. Stephen Finney, I spent some time reading more of your articles today, and just wanted to say I really appreciate your ministry. I'm curious (if you're comfortable telling me) what sort of neurological degenerative nerve disease you live with. Thank you for your prayer of comfort and understanding about multiple sclerosis. That meant so much to me, and I think there is understanding when people live with neurological things. I find your work very encouraging and thorough, and we need your voice. Your article on Israel was so good. I read your article on decluttering today.

 

I have a little bit less common reason why I struggle in this area. Multiple Sclerosis has impacted my visual processing, so I find managing things challenging (and papers), but there is also a large lesion in my right frontal lobe, which actually makes so much sense as to why this has become more difficult over time. I have taken decluttering classes and when we downsized last year, I got rid of lots of things. We had a much larger house, and the move was a good opportunity. Thanks for the Decluttering article. 

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Author, Wendy Williamms

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You and your wife and family are dearly loved, Dr. Phinney. Christian ministry is tough, no way around it, but your ongoing and steady efforts are profoundly appreciated. As we solemnly consider on this Good Friday 2024, the overwhelming sacrifice Christ made on that terrible tree for all of us, we find the courage to keep going another step. God bless you, Dr. Phinney.

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Author, Matthew Adams

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Identity Politics | George Washington's Four Bullets: Dr. Stephen Phinney's post, whimsically recounting the near-mythical resilience of George Washington during the French and Indian War, reads like an adventure novel with a divine twist. The story highlights Washington's extraordinary luck or divine protection, depending on your perspective, in surviving multiple battles unscathed. The narrative is so lively and engaging that you almost expect Washington to don a superhero cape by the end.

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Phinney's recounting of the Indian warrior's disbelief at Washington's invincibility adds a layer of humor and humanity to the tale, painting Washington not just as a historical figure but as a man who seemed to walk under a perpetual lucky star. The vivid depiction of Washington thanking Providence for his escapes adds depth to his character, illustrating his deep faith and humility despite his burgeoning legend.

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Stephen artfully balances historical facts with a light-hearted tone, making the past feel alive and relevant. It's a reminder that history isn't just about dates and treaties, but also about the incredible human stories behind them. Through Dr. Phinney's eyes, Washington isn't just the first president of the United States; he's a man of faith, resilience, and, quite possibly, the best luck ever recorded in American history. This delightful piece not only educates but entertains, leaving readers with a newfound appreciation for the complexities and wonders of historical narratives. Thank you Dr. Phinney!

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Substack, Lauren

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I love the post, "Israel, History of Wars." I stand by you because you speak the truth. This may not make you very popular among even some "Truth, Freedom, Anti Narrative" allies. In most areas we agree, but this is where the road will meet the rubber. The only Real Truth is God Almighty's Truth. When you want full God given Truth you cannot pick and choose. Israel has a very difficult road ahead of them.

 

The Christians who have the correct understanding of the dispensation of God's will and the Eschatological future that is being laid out (Rapture, Tribulation, Antichrist) need to stand firm together in this belief and reach out to Jewish people to let them know that they do not need to fear everyone. I am very aware that with the deep state actors, the just plain old antisemites, and the demonic forces all are going to make it hard to see the exact truth, that's why we pray for God to make us Strong, Discerning, and Hope the Church gets to go home soon. Once Japheth's work is done the Jews veils will be lifted a little and hopefully, they won't feel so lost. I think you are a rock star for having the Solid Commitment to Our Lord's Will, & the Glory He Deserves. You have my support in prayer and in real life commitment.

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Substack, Davis

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I like that I got to read about your cycle story. I have been living a cycle that improves in level of bottom/ or surrender then I allow the flesh to win yet again, we start again...and round and round we go. This has had a very huge part of my life since very early childhood. I have probably developed more ability to turn the other cheek and almost crave adversity because w/o struggle I don't seek out Christ with the same desperation.

 

The last four years have been very different, in some ways...I have felt the Holy Spirit nudging me into seeing other people, situations that I used to judge harshly in a new 180 degree changed perception. I have felt this desire to also do things head on. I used to be an expert at wiggling out of uncomfortable situations. I can feel this intense desire to do things the right God Right way. All the Way.

 

I still fail almost every day in some way, but that urge won't go away. I am excited because the world is having its slate cleaned and so is flesh. Personally, responsibility is imperative to true Liberty. It's probably going to be a thorn in my side for the rest of my life, but I have all the faith possible that God is with me in this battle.

 

I have gotten much encouragement from your story, because it tells me that others fail over and over w/o God giving up listening to them. You have also been able to make progress. Some seem to grow so fast. I take hope in your journey that has been longer. Be blessed and keep Chin up toward our New Father.

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Author, Mattew T. Adams

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A writer I admire AND call a friend. Please check out @Dr. Stephen Phinney

His writings are both inspirational and educational.

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Kelliann

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I did read Revelations last year (did not understand it all). Have read the Gospel. Kind of all over the place in reading the Holy Bible. Grateful that you are addressing all that we need to understand.

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Author, Geoff (Australia)

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Thank you Stephen. My heart is now more overwhelmed than ever. I am working long hours to deaden the pain, but I find myself in tears as I press into Jesus.

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Author, Rennae

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My Life: Two Enemies. Well, you just put my life in a nutshell. This makes total sense. The first list of rejecting people showed I had many of those points, but the rejection of God is done! Fini! Reading His word helped me to learn how to accept my heavenly Father even if I still have a tendency to "want to" reject people on earth.

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Author, Bill

 

Thank you so much for this write up (HAMAS: Their Heinous Acts Disrobed). In sharing just this Substack with others whom I feel are seeking answers to what is happening in Israel at the moment, it’s overwhelmingly apparent how many hearts are hardened against the truth.

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As you say, “If you are an unbeliever, it is impossible for you to discern these events without being possessed by the Holy Spirit. You might find them interesting, but nonetheless, you will end up in this is just more of the same. This is the exact ideology the upcoming Antichrist needs to establish his fake world peace”.

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This has never been clearer to me than in the last several days. Around every corner, it seems that all I see is people screaming for this fake world peace without the understanding or discernment of what is truly unfolding before our eyes.

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I thank God for placing you in my life. Because of Him, you helped lead me to seek and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. Only as of late, am I realizing just how blessed I am to be shielded by the Holy Spirit, against all the chaos and evil that is surrounding us.

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IOM Kenya Director, Brother Bushebi

 

Beloved, IOM America. Many blessings and greeting, Love and prayers from Kenya, Africa in Jesus name! We hope you are doing fine and safe!!!! The blessed Sunday Service at Bungoma church saw 7 churches come together for Worship service that saw 11 People receive Salvation. A great wave of Praises, Prayers and Worship was realized that stirred up the working of the Holy Spirit. Many were prayed for healing and deliverance. I gave the Sermon of the day concerning 'Facing the Challenges.'

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MIRACLES AND SALVATION OF THE LORD: Glory to the Lord Jesus Christ!

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• - 11 People received Jesus Christ at Bungoma Assembly service at Bungoma church.

• - 9 gave their Lives to the Lord Jesus at Nambacha local Gospel crusade at Nambacha Marketplace with Overseer Zacheus Wakhanu.

• - 3 Joined us at Nasyanda church, gave testimonies of how the enemy attacked their Family and now that Jesus has made the difference.

• - Many more received healings from Chest Pains, Severe headache, Leg and Back pains, etc.

• - A good number received Deliverance from Familiar spirits, witchcraft, satanic worship, etc.

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Karen Hoffman

 

Great article and encouragement for Christian writers/readers! If you are a Christian writer and haven’t read this post, READ IT! And then join the work that God is doing online by helping your fellow writers expand their Gospel reach. It’s not so that any one writer can become famous. It’s so that together we can spread the Gospel!

 

Geoffrey Stroud

 

I admit my reluctance to enter the world of social media, then along comes this. Are we to preach to the converted, or to the harvest? The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. It takes courage to enter dark rooms, but how else is the light to shine?

 

Matthew T. Adams

 

Brother...because of you...I have learned so much here about not only God, His Word...AND Substack. I cannot say "Thank You" enough. I need to read and re-read this article several times...I need to absorb every delicious word! Thank you! You...are appreciated!!!

 

Dave Alston

 

Thanks Stephen. When I first saw this, it made me so happy! Simple or what? In a pickle... just ask Jesus to pray for you :) Question is... why it took me so long to realize I could just ask Him to help like this and He would be more than willing... because He is alive after all... and ... obviously... still praying for all His wee sheep, eh? :)

 

Kimberly Kinser

 

FINALLY!!! Someone in ministry that tells the TRUTH!!! Wow!!! Hallelujah and praise Jesus, the only worthy one!! As we sit in the collective dung heap of several generations of false teaching (the prosperity “gospel”, the gracegracegrace “gospel”, etc.) and reap the whirlwind of relativism’s effluent, we are left as sheep without shepherds. We have ear ticklers, not shepherds in our pulpits. At best they are merely flattering liars, worried more about their numbers than the Gospel.

 

They are not authentic, redeemed leaders; and at worst they are jubilant love-is-love heretics, openly defying Jesus’ gospel. Oh Lord, deliver us, we, the stupid sheep that we are! Help us to know you in truth! I have long despaired. I will continue to pray. And part of that is not pointing fingers at others but accepting that I am a sinner in need of a shepherd’s correction. Ah, so much I could say! My heart is full. I thank God for you, and for the work that you are doing. You are an answer to prayer. I have prayed for wisdom and for truth and I was led here. God is good!

 

Keith Radcliffe

 

The United States is unique in that our Liberty is derived from God, not the government. Liberty from God is based on the accomplishments of Jesus Christ. Thus, the entire concept of Liberty is spiritual, not temporal. Liberty and its' blessings do not exist without our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Indeed, the capacity to really understand the rights and responsibilities of "liberty" is only found in those who have a personal relationship with the Savior.

 

Substack Author, Emmalene

 

Stephen, here is my suffering story. Our God does truly work all things together for good; the big, the small and even the shattering moments. Jesus is such a loving God, who wants to walk with us now and into eternity. Not just walk along side us, but He carries us when life’s moments are debilitating. From our very beginnings, Jesus shines His light on us. Jesus leads us out of darkness by the power of His blood; Jesus sacrifice on the cross where His, miraculous, (almost unfathomable) loving exchange, saved us and washed us clean. Sometimes it takes time for the picture to become clear, for the pieces of life’s messy puzzle to join together, but God does work every moment and every occurrence in our lives together for good: for those who are the called (for them that believe) according to His purpose. All because He loves us and we love Him. Read the full story HERE.  

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Substack, Geoffery

 

I was a follower with no vision. I played golf every day after school and all weekend. It dulled my pain. Thank you, Jesus, for your grace toward me.

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Substack, Emmalene

 

Stephen, your testimony gives God so much glory; I loved reading it! Jesus is so good to us. "Little Joseph" indeed! What the enemy intended for harm, God used for good! Thank you for sharing.

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Substack, Arthur

 

This is so relevant & important (Child Sex Abuse), yet easily ignored. I know it’s hard to face it, but the statistics are there so we can be informed, not scared; so, we can respond and not be silenced. Keith says it well...heavenly wisdom alone will guide us in this difficult reality. Our dear Lord is ready to give His wisdom abundantly so we can do what is right in His sight. #SavetheChildren.

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Substack, Thomas

 

Great job exposing the church state Beast-System!

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Substack, Janice

 

Matthew 18:16 is an instruction on dealing with Freemasons. I doubt even non-mason pastors would confront their council members and brothers who are the highest financial contributors to their income, however. Good article though. Freemasons have no place in a Christian congregation unless they repent and turn away from it. And when they do, the brotherhood treats them as an outcast, loosing all of their business supporters. In essence, they must sell everything they own, give the money to the poor and follow Jesus.

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Substack, Garcia

 

Thank you Dr. Phinney I am very blessed by your wisdom and honesty.

The dark places in our lives how great God's love for us to be so loving and patient he is. He totally understands how looking for love and expectance can take us so far from him. Never too far once he indwells us. I am thankful that while we were sinners, he died for us. Blessings to you and your lovely wife.

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Substack, Deborah

 

I thank you so very much for sharing "Salvation." I will be sharing it each day as I have saved it. I would love to have a copy of the workbook. I have accepted Jesus Christ as my savior several years ago but I began living in the world and not in his word. I have recently felt this burning desire to read and understand what is written because I have always struggled with this. I see the stark contrast between the fallen world I live in today and what God tells me to do and that’s to read His word for the truth is there. Seek the truth. Here is what I struggle with each day. I have hate for my sins. I hate myself for committing these sins. Why do I struggle with forgiving myself? It’s shame and guilt and remorse and resentment at myself. I think it’s holding me back from being able to live in joy and happiness for the salvation of Christ’s death on the cross, His sacrifice for me pains me to the horrific way in which He died, and the resurrection and ascension into heaven to prepare a mansion for me is the truth. But, It’s a roadblock in a sense, if you will. How do I get past this point? I do not want to go to supper and not be dressed in a garment but in my filthy sins. Can you help? Thank you again for your article on this matter. 

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IM Writer's Forum, Keith Radcliffe

 

Thanks - you expressed an abundance here in 13 minutes! (Socialist Play God) Lots to think about and unpack. Confronting the idols in our lives can be an unpleasant shock, but the world has well trained us all in idolatry. In Christ we have the victory over the world. I write as a witness, to encourage others to actively expose the evil and then stand against it. John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

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Kathy Garcia

 

Happy Anniversary to you & your wife. I hope your day was special. I am so touched by your writing on your childhood the disfunction and abuse. I relate 😪 on many levels into adult hood. Sometimes it seems as if I am chosen to live under abuse. What I have learned is compassion for others pain. Also, after I distance myself from God because I have difficulty understanding the severely of the trial he allows. Then my Father comes with his great and comforting words of love. But still please keep praying. Thank you. I am truly looking forward to not being so affected and know his fellowship in suffering. -Kathy 

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Gordon Francis

 

God bless you our dear brothers and sisters from IOM AMERICA. We are really blessed with your Ministry. God bless you so much.

 

Substack, Kinser

 

FINALLY!!! Someone in ministry that tells the TRUTH!!! Wow!!! Hallelujah and praise Jesus, the only worthy one!! As we sit in the collective dung heap of several generations of false teaching (the prosperity “gospel”, the grace-grace-grace “gospel”, etc.) and reap the whirlwind of relativism’s effluent, we are left as sheep without shepherds. We have ear ticklers, not shepherds in our pulpits. At best they are merely flattering liars, worried more about their numbers than the Gospel. They are not authentic, redeemed leaders; and at worst they are jubilant love-is-love heretics, openly defying Jesus’ gospel. Oh Lord, deliver us, we, the stupid sheep that we are! Help us to know you in truth! I have long despaired. I will continue to pray. And part of that is not pointing fingers at others but accepting that I am a sinner in need of a shepherd’s correction. Ah, so much I could say! My heart is full. I thank God for you, and for the work that you are doing. You are an answer to prayer. I have prayed for wisdom and for truth and I was led here. God is good! 

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Substack, Australia | Kimberly

 

I’m so glad you were even a little blessed by my appreciation. The world hates Truth, but how blessed we are to see it, know it, serve it!! How blessed we are when ppl hate us because of it! I know, it’s easy for me to say, because I’m not out front as you are, but you know it’s the truth. It’s not fun, or easy, but it is true. I raised my kids telling them, “If it (whatever “it” was, usually something running counter to the culture) was easy, everyone would do it. Now go do the next right thing.” I am blessed because you are faithful. Because you chose wisely. May God bless you richly, and protect you always. 

 

Substack, Australia | Geoff

 

Thank you so much for your generous gift. I will read it as I read all you produce. You are an inspiration to me. I would like to commence a men’s ministry here in Australia and I would like to review your The Principled Patriarch book for use as the ministry foundation. I know this is a big ask, but your work needs a wider audience and Oz is a great place to spread the message of Godly manhood. I would love any guidance your wisdom can provide in establishing this ministry.

 

Thank you again Stephen, you are a blessing to me.

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YouTuber, Miss Lord

 

This is a real God send, I just had a so-called professional are they business front yelling in a place of business. As I was praying to God allow for some peace and calmness within. I got a real loud notification and low and behold it was this video. 🎉 God is good all the time, and I wish this channel the very best🎉 Miss Lord 🌹

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Author, Geoffrey Stroud

 

Hi Stephen, You and I are so aligned that it is scary - proof that God is on the move. I write on the Substack platform to encourage believers to take God seriously. I am not a speck of the writer that you are, you are a giant among men. While I have breath, I will praise Jesus for men like you. Bless you my brother in Christ, keep going!

 

Reader, Janice Walker

 

I loved the post "The Supreme Attribute of God" today.  Sometimes I have gotten tired of being bludgeoned by preachers who are sure God's work will fail if I don't_____.  The work is His and His alone; yes, it is joy when we can participate.  Thank you, and many blessings for your day.

 

Viewer, Keith Radcliffe

 

I have listened to the first five episodes of Daniel. It is gratifying to know we have so much we agree on. So that you know, I have come to perceive that you are a genuine man of God. The series is inspiring and interesting! Thank you for sharing.

 

Reader, Tiffanie Kene

 

Hi Dr. Phinney, It was really great to read your post about Dr. King because my daughter and I just finished watching Selma wrap up the day honoring his life and work. Now, I would have chosen a documentary if it were just me, but she’s not as into those as I am, so we settled on Selma. HA!

 

When I was a child, I hardly took note of who this man was. All I knew was that he “had a dream,” and he did big things for the black communities in the south. Actually, it wasn’t until about three years ago that I really began to pay attention to who he was and what message he was conveying. Multiple articles and speeches pronounced his desire that we would all be unified as brethren. It was his Kingdom's focus on souls being unified, ultimately in Christ, that caught my attention. I have so much respect for what he did and how he chose non-violent protests to pave the way, all coupled with his love for the Lord. The way I see it, Christ was infused into his messages the entire time; they had a much deeper meaning than just social justice. But that’s my opinion, of course.

 

His approach is so far removed from today’s "black lives matter" movement, and it causes me deep sorrow. I agree that Dr. King would be offended by this so-called civil rights movement that demands a right to itself and reviles lighter-skinned people. I’m so grateful I can look the atrocity of these movements in the face and hope in Christ because, quite frankly, it’s all going to h-e-double hockey sticks in a basket.

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Well of Inspiration, Donald Schuler

 

Stephen, great article, "A Seared Conscience." When the churches we went to in the past 30 years got bigger and bigger, it seemed to water down many folks' faith. Because we need the river of life flowing through us. We need to thirst for His word, not because of a guilt-seared conscience constructed of some devotion life, but because we have a heart of gratitude for what He has done in our lives. Having a perfectly constructed sermon doesn’t bring the thirst. Many of us didn’t keep growing in our faith and inadvertently served the enemy's camp. To chew on His word is so nourishing. If we take the time to put His word in, the Holy Spirit will enable it in our lives. If I could do a "do-over," the one thing I would is to get God's word in me more consistently and frequently. Instead, I got into the trap of raising kids and working hard to provide. The story of many of us.

 

Substack, Donald Schuler

 

Good write, Stephen, the "Oil in Your Lamp." I think we, the church, have gotten lazy. I think we just waited to be raptured. That this is not my home mentality. The next generation sees through this hypocrisy and rejects it but still considers they are believers because they said the sinner's prayer... when the groom comes for His church doesn’t it say the bride will be unsullied. Where does that put most of the church? Yes, heaven is a free gift, but the evidence of freedom in Christ is a life change. Imperfect but peaceful in the middle of a storm. Thanks.

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Substack, Keith Radcliffe

 

Interesting post, "Unmasking for Life."  Thank you! I have talked with several in my neighborhood about masks - one woman, a medical worker, said she knows masks don't work, but she wears them because of fear. In the physical realm, we stand naked before God: And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:13. But, God has provided us the spiritual new-self and our armor. Ephesians 4:24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. The evil among us believe that God is "masked": He has said in his heart, “God has forgotten; He hides His face; He will never see.” … Why do the wicked renounce God? He has said in his heart, “You will not require an account.” Psalms 10:11-13. The world has worked to train us in "learned helplessness", to ignore God and our salvation through the accomplishments of Jesus Christ. Our Lord has delivered us from the fear of death, so we do not need to live in fear.

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Substack, Donald Schuler

 

Jane. Great write, Unmasking for Life! I, too, spent years not understanding others and their facades. We can easily get caught up in the. Oh, how are you doing? Greeaat! And accept the same when they are really not. Thinking we are being positive. It’s learning to recognize the folks in our life that we can help unmask, and they can with us. There are folks that only we can reach. That’s our call.

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YouTube, Barbara Lowe

 

PTL! Thank you for a very good video, "The New Heaven & Earth." I learned more about the New Heavens and The New Earth than I'd already learned. Looking forward to more.

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International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, Yael Eckstein

 

Shalom, Stephen. God’s children have no better friends than people of faith like you who open the pages of Scripture and obey His command to bless and “comfort ye, comfort ye” His people (Isaiah 40:1).

Your friendship means more than anything. The world is fickle, turning its back on God and His children at every turn. But not you. NEVER you.

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Substack, Kathy

 

Dr. Stephen, my heart was moved by your story, and I prayed for you. I am deeply affected by an organized bunch of bullies running the neighborhood. 

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My story is difficult to tell because it is so unbelievable. This is the world we live in believe it's only going to change and get worse. Going to the authorities did not work only got me into more trouble for being a snitch. My apartment faces a busy street, and the effects are great on my body and health. I am 78 years old. I also have leg problems and other issues with torn shoulders and arthritis. For the most part, I know God is in control and has used this in my life. The physical effects of drugs are to me devastating, and of course, the loss of control. I am trying to live in the thoughts that we are positionally seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Clearly, my emotions are not going to agree.  I believe Christ is my life; He is in me, and I am in Him. 

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Author, Dr. James Fowler

 

In the year of our Lord, 2022, I have been sustained by the grace of God in Jesus Christ day in and day out. With increasing health problems due to the disease of diabetes, I was given two days’ notice that my lower extremities would have to be amputated. The bilateral amputation of my feet and lower limbs (approximately 6-8 inches below the knee) was accomplished on March 25, 2022, at the Stone Oak Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, TX. Thereafter began the process of physical rehab and the eventual development of prosthetics (and additional rehab) to be able to walk and be ambulatory once again. In the weeks immediately following the surgery, I had some depressive “dark nights of the soul,” and even tempting thoughts of suicide from the death-dealing devil (cf. Heb. 2:14)

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What has occurred in my bilateral amputations has drawn me closer to my Lord and made me more sensitive to the needs of others. I didn’t need those feet to continue to share my thoughts in writing.

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Disciple Nations, Scott Allen

 

Thank you so much, Dr. Phinney! Your kind words of encouragement mean so much. I just looked over your beautiful website. Your ministry looks very intriguing and important. Keep up the great work. Warmly in Christ.

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Kansas Mom, Tiffany Kene

 

Hello! I thoroughly enjoyed the Claiming Our Authority post and prayed the prayer at the end. I will keep that one nearby because it’s such a powerful prayer and reminder that I am in need of the Holy Spirit to understand the Word of God, and His Word is the final authority. Sooo good!

 

Author, Jim Wallace

 

Praise the Lord. I have thought of you and your ministry and how incredibly important the matter of identity in Christ is, as it was in my own ministry. God saved me from ministry run by my self-life by reminding me of the truth about whom I was, supernatural healing me on one occasion, and supernaturally reminding me of these truths on another. I have struggled with this through my ministry and through my life, and becoming clear on these issues is the only reason I have survived in ministry. Thank you! 

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IOM Founder, Stephen Phinney

 

Recently I was verbally attacked by a family member over a five-hour period. It left me devastated. I slipped into the dark place of despair - questioning my validity of being in ministry. As I slept, nightmares filled my mind while I awakened to a dark sense of defeat. It was so dark that I reached out to a hand full of friends for prayer. Within an hour, the darkness lifted. Satan used this attack to question my identity. However, through the fellowship of the Saints, my real identity in Christ surfaced quickly. Folks, we need each other.    

 

Summit Ministries, Dr. Jeff Myers

 

Do. Not. Be. Afraid. This is the most frequent command in Scripture. The good news of Jesus dispels fear.      

     

In 2020, I was diagnosed with cancer. When the doctor told me, I was tempted to despair. Stephanie and I talked a lot about our hopes and dreams. God had given me a rich, full life. Was it about to end?

     

Cancer is hard. So is the treatment. My fellow patients and I weren’t just battling disease. We were battling hopelessness.

     

But God does not leave us during dark times. He does not forsake us. Even when things seem bleak, He is writing a counter-story.

     

Early last summer, after 66 intense infusions of chemo, I visited my doctor on a Wednesday afternoon. He looked at my test results, smiled, and said, “Get out of here. You’re too healthy to be here.”     

     

Learning that my cancer was in remission was welcome news. But even if the reports had not been good, my hope is still in the Good News of Great Joy, that Jesus has come to make all things new. That starry night in Bethlehem changed everything. 

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Pastor, Kenya, Joseph Natembeya

 

Dear Dr. Phinney, " Where is He who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him. ( Matt. 2:2).

 

On behalf of my  Family and Ministry, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generous support, financial and spiritual teachings, and heartfelt prayers this past year and other years. Your partnership with us made a significant difference in my life and the ministry, blessing and encouraging me, my family, and the ministry at large in meaningful and substantial ways. I and my family and the church wish you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year 2023. Amen!! Your son, Joseph

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Pastor, Dave Alston

 

Excellent article, "Pimping Beggars," Stephen! It is amazing the timing of this article. I started reading it a couple of days ago... then within a couple of hours, I had a conversation with someone in Dubai. He reported exactly the same thing! He had substantially supported orphans and the distressed via a church in an African country. He then flew over at the end of 2021 to visit the church. Ended up staying months uncovering abuse of all the funds... virtually nothing actually got to the desperate village areas and helpers looking after the poor. Instead, “The Church” took the money and enjoyed lavish lifestyles... they even tried to get him to donate nigh on $20K for a ‘new work’ for a gold cross to go in the building! Arriving at services in limos and private jets! I tremble for these people. Jesus notices every single ‘widow's mite’ and the heart that gives it. Woe to the wicked that steal it to make themselves fat. Bless you, brother.

 

YouTube Corporate

 

Dr. Phinney, way to create a community and culture unlike any other! Cheers to doing it your way this year – now celebrate your 2022 numbers, 492.K views, 1M watch time minutes, and 696 new subscribers, not to mention over 8M viewers to date. We can’t wait to see you put your spin on 2023. Never stop exploring your creativity! Keep inspiring, stay playful, and bond with new fans along the way.

 

Randy Alcorn

 

Stephen, Paul wasn’t telling us, “Stop enjoying life,” but rather “Start enjoying the good life—the true and abundant life! Take pleasure in all God’s gifts to you.” He wasn’t telling us “Don’t care about treasures” but “Enjoy the superior treasures and joys of generosity.” Our Father doesn’t prize our misery or insist that we live a life of stoic sacrifice. Rather, the Creator delights in our joy. Who should enjoy God’s world more than God’s people, who know and love Him as their loving Father? The things we love are not merely the best this life has to offer—they are previews of the greater life to come. So we simultaneously feel profound gratitude for what He gives us now and great anticipation for the treasures He promises us in the world to come.

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Iron Sharpens Iron, Brian Doyle

 

Yes, to giving to Christ-centered ministries to rescue people in need. But a strong "yes" also to investing in ministries that work to stop the cycle of brokenness that causes people, mostly women and children, the need to be rescued. IOM shares with us as a Christ-centered ministry to men because - did you know that nearly every nonprofit ministry has been created due to MEN failing to be the men Almighty God created them to be?  

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Phil Robertson

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As Christians around the globe enter into this season, I pray that we will remember that the majesty of his birth was not that he was simply a cute little baby but that he was “God in flesh appearing.” That’s the beauty of Christmas: God, who created us in his image, was willing to humble himself and come as a vulnerable newborn baby.

 

Author, Dave Alston

 

Thank you for writing "Prophecy: An American Scientist,"  Stephen. Very clear and helpful. And especially for folk like me who don’t follow what’s going on in detail.

Most times, I am like, “Thank you LORD for Psalm 91, whatever evil is being cooked up in labs!” That said, we need clear writing to share what’s going on (and help warn others) for sure... Plus, enjoy wee nuggets like this... “Human history places this viral implosion between 1200 to 1500 BC - the Biblical timestamp of Moses releasing God's people from Egypt.” Well said. Bless you.

 

​Author, Keith Radcliffe

 

I appreciate the details that you brought to life in your "Prophecy: The Birth of Our King" to the expansive story about the birth of our Messiah. There is much to learn and to be thankful for.

 

Author, Jim Richardson

 

Highly recommend the book, "This Preeminent Darkness." I’m only in the first chapter, and I’m already hooked. Stephen is a believer who holds fast to Scripture as delivered once to all the saints, undiluted and uncorrupted by today's drifting moral compass. Anyway, gotta get back to reading. Thank you, Stephen.

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Moss Foot

 

Dr. Phinney, as you developed the passage of Romans 13:1-2, your teachings about these two Bible verses, a young boy in the name of Eloic succeeded and accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of his life in our morning cell of the house in Bukavu. Thank you very much for your biblical teachings. 

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Valentine Rangel

 

I was neurotic for a long time in my life. I went to Vietnam as a Marine. I married less than a year and had a baby girl. I left the Catholic Church searching for happiness. One day I discovered a book called HANDBOOK TO HAPPINESS AND VICTORIOUS LIVING by Dr. Charles Solomon. I went to Denver of Grace Fellowship International to attend their workshop. It took a while for me to come to the end of myself and discover Christ as life. I was blind, but now I Live!

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Senator, Jerry Moran

 

Knowing the views of Kansans is important to me as I work to represent them in the United States Senate. Thank you for sharing your opposition to the Respect for Marriage Act (RMA).

 

On November 29, 2022, I voted against the Respect for Marriage Act, which would codify the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges that recognizes same-sex marriage under the Constitution. All Americans should be treated equally and with dignity and respect. Knowing there are protections under multiple Supreme Court rulings for same-sex marriage, I hoped to see greater protections for religious freedom in the RMA. While I appreciate my colleagues taking steps to protect religious freedom, the bill’s lack of clarity for people of faith in churches, schools, non-profits, and businesses continues to pose a threat to the religious freedom of Americans guaranteed by the First Amendment. I voted in favor of three amendments that would clarify and strengthen protections for people of sincerely-held beliefs, but each failed to be adopted. The RMA passed 61-36, and will go to President Biden to be signed into law.

 

I am grateful for the opportunity Kansans have given me to serve them in the United States Senate. If you are interested in learning more about my efforts on your behalf, I encourage you to visit moran.senate.gov. Please let me know if I can be of service to you or your family in the future.

 

 

Santhosh Chellappan

 

Urgent prayer request for the family of Evangelist Pratap Singh, 42 years. A Hindu convert. Last night Hindu fanatics killed him by beating him brutally and burnt him alive. In 2019, he left his home for a job and stayed in a city with the people doing the same work he was doing, and through them, he came to Christ.

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Six months back, he returned to his village and started sharing the Gospel and attracting many to Christ. He was the only person who knew about Christ in his entire village. His family and the entire village people asked him to turn back to Hinduism and not to preach about Jesus Christ. His village is famous for witchcraft and idol worship. But his love for Christ compelled him to preach the Gospel, and as a result, some of his friends accepted Christ into their lives and started a prayer fellowship in a public park where many Hindus and some of his relatives came and attacked them last night. They caught, brutally killed him by putting petrol on him, and burnt him alive to ash.

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His wife and children are afraid to file a complaint at the police station. I request you to please pray for his family and those with whom he shared the Gospel that the Gospel will grow there, and the entire village will realize that Jesus Christ is the Lord. Let us unite in prayer for India as persecution of Christians is increasing here in India every day. Many churches are closed or destroyed; many Gospel workers are in jail.

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Katana Hassan

 

I am blessed to let you know that I was privileged to attend one of the IOM America conferences by Bishop Charles. He gave each participant 5 copies of the Identity Matters Workbook, which has been a big help to me here in the refugee camps.

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I arrived one week ago from the Mombasa conference, and God is already doing big miracles through the systematic self-discovery spiritual workbook. Here we have more than 250,000 refugees drawn from Somali and Ethiopia - 98 % are Muslims.

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Through group teachings, self-reading, and your Identity Matters Workbook, we shall be able to reach so many. May God bless you for the good work.

 

Charles Mwanda

 

I had a remote village reach out to me that overjoyed my heart. How wonderful when people are reached with good news.IOM America is becoming the foundation for those who would never think such true gospel will reach them.

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False teachers and prophets are flourishing and taking advantage of village ignorance by swaying innocent people with false teachings. With more and more teachings and self-reading methods especially in family setup, things will change.

 

Santhosh Chellappan

 

The greatest thing that I have ever done in my life is that I accepted Christ into my life today. I am happy at this young age I received a new life that rest of my life I can live peacefully, Abhishek said this.

 

Abhishek, 19 years, a college student was invited to our house church by one of the youths in the fellowship. He is from a Hindu family. Request your prayers for his parents and younger brother that they also will come to Christ soon.

 

Coming to Christ alone from a family that is fully devoted to the Hindu religion and still living in the same atmosphere is difficult and may face tough opposition from other members of the family. So, please pray for Abhishek.

 

It was the first time he is seeing Bible and he was so happy when I gave him a new Bible in his own language.

 

Thank you so much for your continued prayers for us and our ministry. You are in my heart and prayers. Praise the Lord. Lord.

 

IOM Mombasa Center

 

FIRST GRADUATING CLASS: Our meeting in the camp was very successful. We finished yesterday. We had small group meetings, and finally, we gave out IOM certificates for the young and old, who will be further trained and equipped to evangelize and equip others in discipleship classes.

 

Keep praying that we don't stop going on. Thank you for the financial help you gave us. I added my contribution of 2,300 dollars to print books and certificates.

 

My wife's business has gone down but pray that it picks up again. The business has helped a lot to support the ministry & work of IOM America.

 

Next week we need to go to Turkana, the semi-arid region.

 

God is calling His people to wake up and invest their time, energy, and finances for the Gospel to reach the unreached.

 

We thank God for you. We keep praying for you.

 

 

XL-Church Member

 

I wanted to share how your care and concern for our little fellowship, by way of praying and seeking the Spirit in your desire to build us up in our spiritual gifts, greatly blessed me. When you were sharing about how you spent time praying for us and over the Word cards, I felt the Father's love pour out of you onto us. It was tangible as you pleaded with us to listen and begin to meditate and incorporate the Words into our lives. Thank you for being a Father type over us and encouraging us to desire the Lord's richness that can only be experienced through true intimacy with Him. 

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Timothee Niyonkuru

 

I greet you my coordinator I would like to work with you openly here in Burundi and to open your office ministry here nice to hear from you. Your ministry impacts the world over.

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Frank Friedmann

 

As a teacher, my number one passion is to help people understand the truth as revealed in the Holy Spirit-inspired Scriptures. Tragically, if people do not understand how to interpret the Scriptures they will slip into error as they make the Bible proclaim whatever they wanted to proclaim. Leading people into freedom also requires the courageous step of pointing out the errors that people believe. This may not allow such a one to be popular, but being popular was never the agenda of a new covenant teacher. This has been the heart of my own ministry and I believe it is the heart of IOM. It was easy to partner with IOM because they share the same heart of not only proclaiming the truth but exposing the multitude of lies that the enemy hurls at the church in order to keep the church from fully experiencing the freedom that is their birthright in Christ.

 

Rev. Daniel D. Nawara

It’s as though you pinned it from the table of God, your writings communicate exactly what you talk about. Thank You for this!

Babu & Sara Sharat

Thank you so much for all your LOVE and glorious writings and media all these years. It has blessed Voice of the Gospel in many ways. Please continue to pray for us as IOM guides us for LORDS WORK IN INDIA.

Pastor Charles Mwanda
 

Today was the most blessed day I have ever come across. I was invited to give a word during a students symposium where 7 high schools had come together. I decided to print out your message of "Identity," which I taught through, as well as share a few prints with teachers.
 

The result is unbelievable. A senior officer in the ministry of education has requested that I ask you to compile your messages into hardcopy books to help reform and deal with the unethical, moral decline in schools. I hope you have heard of rampant school strikes and fires in Kenya.

Roberto Fuentez

I was blessed & encouraged by your article on the prophecy statue that’s on the UN visitor square. But also about the incarceration of Christ, and also the article by Tony Evans. I plan to send more texts to my friends and family about what I am learning through IOM America. Thank you a whole lot.

Dal of Nepal
 

Very glad to get the opportunity to join the Zoom meeting here in Nepal. If possible please send that video and brochure. Thank you so much! May God bless you abundantly.

Rob Parlante

It was great being on last night's Zoom Masterclass on the state of the church - listening to different perspectives on the church. My vision is to start small Grace Based Fellowships / Churches around the country - bring the Church to them, instead of them trying to come to us! Thank you for your input.

Raju Paharia
 

I hope that you are well by grace the Lord Jesus Christ with your family. I am also well in Christ. I would like to know the link regarding your online church by zoom. I would like to join in with your XL-Church. 

Bishop Thomas Justin Mapira

I really thank you for the wonderful messages you always send me. Continue connecting me to your life-changing messages. 

Kathy Garcia
 

I am very thankful and read almost everything you post. You are a great encouragement to many. Thank you, for it is truly a difficult time we live in.

Yesurantnam Undrajavarapu

Respected IOM America. Greetings to you from India in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.  I am a pastor, here in Prakash Nanda. I am receiving your email letters daily with messages and information from the Bible. I am reading and understanding well. I am a committed follower in faith and service here in India.

Alex Nilamel
 

Your piece on 'Checklist Christians' is excellent. Although I have never been that sort of a person, the article is very helpful in Christian Counseling.  At 86 I tend to turn to mentoring and that is not easily taken by some obtuse guys. I go beyond Gal.2:20 which is the foundation stone of Grace Counseling; to John 15:4-6 based on my personal life and experience. I was in association with Mike Wells. Thank you for the article which certainly will strike a chord with 'Checklist Christians.  

Barnabas Oluwaleye
 

Your contents are super-rich and contemporary in nature. God bless you for the great work you are doing. Stay healthy and safe.

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Edouard Kyetile

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I thank you very much for the teachings!

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Pastor Haroon Masih

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Shalom IOM. We are translating your Biblical material into our National language Urdu. We working on your sermons in the same language. We thank you for the most excellent material.