When Jesus called Matthew, a tax collector, to be a disciple, the Pharisees and scribes were totally upset. They saw tax collectors as ritually unclean and therefore socially “off-limits” to devout Jews. Matthew (also known as Levi) was a Jew, but he was also a hated outcast. According to the religious leaders he was “unclean” because he worked for the Roman government. Also, the tax collectors also made “extra” money by charging the people more than the tax required. Needless to say, tax collectors were despised, rejected, hated. Yet, Jesus called Matthew to follow him and be His disciple.

The scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus, “Why are you eating with those kinds of people – the tax collectors and sinners? Jesus’ response was, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” The very people Jesus came to Earth for was for sinners.

Matthew wasn’t the only one. We can also see Jesus sitting by a well because He had a divine appointment with the Woman at the Well. Or, the woman who was caught in adultery and shoved at the feet of Jesus. The religious leaders wanted to stone her. Did you ever notice it was just her? Where was the man she was caught in adultery with? No one brought him for stoning. But Jesus quietly begins to write in the sand and those with stone in their hands began to walk away. When the last one as gone, he asked the woman, “Where are your accusers?” She looks around realizing they were all gone and says, “No where.” Jesus lovingly says, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.” And then there’s the thieves crucified with Jesus. One died lost and went to hell. But the other one, recognized Jesus as His Savior and cried out, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “Today you will be with me in paradise.”

The King of kings came to seeking sinners. Sinners like me and like you. The Pharisees thought so highly of themselves that they saw no need for Jesus as a Savior. They were content with the ritual cleaning. They didn’t want to be confronted with their need for a Savior. They saw themselves as righteous through the rituals that had been handed down since the days of Moses. For someone to know and recognize their need for a Savior, they must first see themselves as sinners who were spiritually sick and in desperate need for a spiritual physician who could introduce them to grace, forgiveness, and repentance. That is why He came – he came seeking sinners to call them to repentance.

Jesus, thank you for calling us to repentance. Thank you for sitting with sinners so that we can know of your love, grace, and forgiveness. Thank you for coming to earth so that we can see our need for You. 

#seeking sinners #invitationtorepentance

Join us in 52 days of prayer as each day we pray for a different state. Commit to one day of fasting on the day we unite in prayer for your state. On the day we pray for your state, get a group of your Christian family and friends together via phone or video conference and lead a prayer meeting for your sate. As you pray each day pray for the following:

1. Pray for God to remove the Coronavirus from that state. We will pray for states in order of most affected to least affected as reported on the World Health Organization Website.
2. Pray for God to heal each person who has the virus in the state for which we are praying
3. Pray for the family members who have lost loved ones due to the virus. Ask God to comfort them and to make His presence known to them.
4. Pray for God to humble the hearts of His people and that they will seek His face with all their heart, mind, and soul
5. Pray for repentant hearts that will confess any sin and to be willing to turn from sin and set their minds on Christ 
6. Ask God to hear us from Heaven, to forgive our sin (both individually and nationally) and heal our land
7. Invite God to be Lord in our nation, our government, and in our homes

Download the 52 day prayer guide by clicking the image below: The prayer guide is available for free download to individuals and churches and may be reproduced in any quantity both printed and electronically through websites, email, social media, apps, or any other method. 

#Chronovirus #fastandpray #judgement #repentance #revivalin2020 #WCM

Don’t forget to learn this week’s memory verse:

Memorize and hide in your heart one memory verse each week in 2020. If you didn’t start the challenge at the beginning of the year, just jump in now and be sure to sign up to get our weekly Memory verse in your email so you don’t miss a week.

In 2020 our emphasis is on revival for America with three key words: revive, renew, and redeem. You will begin to see the elements of our website and posts reflect this emphasis. We hope you’ll join us in praying for God to pour out the Holy Spirit with a mighty rushing wind of revival for our nation and around the world.

Our key verse for revival is 2 Chronicles 7:14. “If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.  For the past few  weeks, we have been focusing on repentance. This week, we look at the spiritual transformation that takes place when we surrender our heart to God.

This week’s memory verse:

2 Chronicles 20:9

 ‘If disaster comes upon us—sword, judgment, pestilence, or famine—we will stand before this temple and in Your presence (for Your name is in this temple), and cry out to You in our affliction, and You will hear and save.’ 

Meditate and apply:

Will you commit to praying with us in 2020 that God will revive His people, renew our faith, and redeem our land? We feel such an urgency and desperation for revival. If God is moving your heart for revival, write your revival prayer in the comments along with your state or country. 

#Chronovirus #fastandpray #judgement #repentance #revivalin2020 #WCM

 

This week’s featured design reminds us that even with Coronavirus on the rampage, we can still love people like Jesus and remember to wash our hands so we don’t spread cooties to others.

Available in tees for men, women, children, and babies, mugs, bags, and other products. Here’s a sample of a few of the products you can choose with this design. Check out all the available products in the Spreadshirt shop. Also available in the Teespringshop

All proceeds go to the advancement of Wellspring Christian Ministries.

Thank you for helping us grow!

Click here to view the Teespring store. 

Click here to view the Spreadshop Store 

#coronavirus #lovelikeJesus #washyourhands #keepyourcooties 

#spreadshop #teespring

 

BOOKING NOW! Be a host site for the NEW God, Love & Marshmallow Wars Book Tour & Couples Conference:

This event helps couples understand why the daily activities found in the book will equip them to build a stronger marriage and the book provides them with 365 intentional activities to take what they learn at the event and apply it on a daily basis. Through the event, couples will discover the Biblical “why” behind the categories of activities found in the book and the “how” these activities are important to building a stronger marriage. Focus points of the event includes :

• How memorizing scripture together and studying God’s Word together as they study, meditate and apply scriptures related to marriage and life issues will help them develop marriages that honor God.
• Why utilizing fun conversation starters that spark meaningful conversations will keep interest alive as they continually learn new things about each other.
• Why keeping romance alive is essential to intimacy and connectivity.
• How making memories and working together builds relationship investment bonds and how these investment bonds can become the knots that keeps them together through the tough times.
• How they can understand what they are or are not contributing to the marriage as well as how they might be contributing to problems or potential problems within the relationship through the use of targeted, intentional personal reflections
• Why it is important that couples never stop dating and how group dates with Christian friends can be both an encouragement and accountability to their own relationship.

During the event, couples will be given an activity from each focus point to do together, making this event an interactive, fun, and engaging event with practical, hands-on learning. Unlike other couple events that are over when the event ends, couples who attend the GLMW event will be able to apply what they learn when utilizing the book on a daily basis for a year. Since the book is not dated, couples are able to reuse the activities year after year to continue being intentional in strengthening their relationship with each other and with God as they strive to live out God’s design for marriage every day.

Learn more about hosting this event at your church or conference site by clicking here.

About the book: The GLMW book contains 365 daily challenges for couples to strengthen their relationships to each other and with God. Couples will complete activities such as Scripture memory, conversation starters, relationship builders, learning about Biblical marriage, romance builders, personal reflections, and date ideas. Click here to purchase your copy. (This link will open a new widow and take you to Westbow Press’ bookstore.) It is also available at Christian Book Distributors, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble

#GLMW #couplesevent #GLMWbook #intentionalmarriage #Godlymarriage

Looking for a keynote speaker for your next ministry event? Julia is now booking for 2019 and 2020 Christian events for women’s and couples’ ministries for both small and large events.
Book with us now.

To request more information or a booking, 
fill out the online form here.

Or call us at 904.524.8073

#JuliaBruce #speaker #keynote #author

Check out these items from Christian Book Distributors.

Our organization receives an 8% commission on any item you purchase through these links. However, the product price is the same for you. There is no increase in your cost for us to receive the commission. All commissions receive support the work and ministry of Wellspring Christian Ministries.

Wash Your Hands and Say Your Prayers Soap Dispenser By Dexsa-the Giving Company Trending words of inspiration on glass soap dispenser for kitchen, bath, or powder room; clear glass with typography design screened on; pump top. Fill with your favorite detergent, soap, or lotion. 8 ounce capacity.Wash your hands and say your prayers because Jesus and germs are everywhere.

Finding Hope When Life Seems Dark: Hosea, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah

By Kay Arthur / Harvest House Publishers

In this booklet you’ll study five of the prophets who ministered to both the northern and southern kingdoms before the exile of the southern kingdom to Babylon. Though God commissioned His prophets to preach unique messages to different audiences, He gave them a common theme—hope when life seems dark. As you study these, you too will find hope. Group or individual study includes a daily guide to help you discover truth for yourself, questions for discussion, a thought for the week, and a memory challenge.

Hope: Choosing Faith Instead of Fear / Digital original – eBook By Bill Crowder / Our Daily Bread Ministries

Unafraid: Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain Times By Adam Hamilton / Convergent Books Learn how to flourish as a beacon of hope and serenity in an anxious age! Drawing on the latest research, therapeutic insights, biblical principles, and his personal experiences, Hamilton helps you untangle the knots of fear and worry—and embrace Jesus’ recurring advice: “Do not be afraid.” Full of practical solutions to help you live courageously! 176 pages, hardcover.

Ultimate hope for Changing Times – eBook By Dale & Sandy Larsen / Shaw Books

Jude: Contending for the Faith in Today’s Culture, Bible Study Book By Jackie Hill Perry / Lifeway

The Book of Signs Study Guide By David Jeremiah / Zondervan In this 31-lesson The Book of Signs Study Guide which accompanies David Jeremiah’s book, The Book of Signs, he examines the prophetic writings from the Old and New Testaments to help you cut through the confusion and give you insights about God’s plan for humankind as the end times draw near. You will explore what God’s Word says about… International Signs: the nations and regions that will play important roles as the final events of the age emerge Cultural Signs: what will occur in societies and cultures around the world as we approach the end times Heavenly Signs: what will happen to believers during this tumultuous time Tribulation Signs: what will transpire during this seven-year period, when Satan, the Antichrist, and the False Prophet unleash unspeakable horrors on the world End Signs: what believers can look forward to experiencing when Jesus returns and God establishes His everlasting kingdom on earth

Anxious for Nothing Study Guide with DVD: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World By Max Lucado / Thomas Nelson In this five-session Anxious for Nothing DVD Study by Max Lucado, he examines Philippians 4:4–8 to show how we can be anxious for nothing and discover true peace from God that surpasses human understanding. Sessions: Rejoice in the Lord Always (21:00) Let Your Gentleness Be Evident to All (20:00) Present Your Requests to God (21:00) The Peace of God Will Guard Your Heart (21:30) Meditate on These Things (21:30) This pack contains one softcover study guide and one DVD.  First Lesson Free! PDF Study Guide

Unshakable Hope, Study Guide with DVD By Max Lucado / Thomas Nelson The Unshakable Hope study provides groups of all sizes the opportunity to discuss and apply what they experience during the twelve-week Unshakable Hope church campaign. This study will open participants’ eyes as to how they can view their problems in light of God’s many promises in Scripture.  This Unshakable Hope Study Pack contains one study guide and one DVD.  The Unshakable Hope book is required for this study and is not included. Sessions include: You Are Stamped with God’s Image (14:00) God Will Win the Victory (13:00) You Are an Heir of God (13:00) Your Prayers Have Power (12:00) God Gives Grace to the Humble (12:00) God Gets You (13:00) Jesus Is Praying for You (13:00) Death Has Been Defeated (12:00) Joy Is Coming Soon (12:30) You Will Have Power (12:00) There Is No Condemnation in Christ (12:00) Justice Will Prevail (13:30) Approximate runtime: 108 minutes

When God Doesn’t Fix It Study Guide with DVD By Thomas Nelson Is it possible that good things can come out of our broken dreams? Building upon her book, When God Doesn’t Fix It, this Bible Study examines what the Bible says about God and why our lives often don’t turn out the way we like. She looks at the brokenness of some of our biblical heroes of faith – Abraham, Joseph, David, Paul – and shows how despite their flawed stories, God used them. God may not fix everything. In fact, our situation might never change or get better. But..we can. Study pack includes one Study Guide and one DVD. First Lesson Free! PDF Study Guide Sessions include: 1. Don’t Be Surprised by Trouble (14:00) 2. Best-Made Plans (14:00) 3. When God Doesn’t Fix It (10:00) 4. Why? The Question on Replay (12:00) 5. A Better Broken (13:00) Approximate runtime: 63 minutes

God Bless You Tissue Basket with Black Lining By Lyons Baskets Handy tissue basket holds a box of boutique tissues, God bless you is embroidered on fabric liner, with wood lid. 6″ x 6″ x 6″; adds style to your room decor. Black with white lettering; button closure.Personalization is available! To order with embroidered personalization, just add to your cart and follow the prompts. All personalization is done on the premises at Christianbook.com. Personalized with one line of your choice consisting of 20 characters. Please Note: Font and thread colors cannot be changed.

Wash Your Hands: Dirty Truth About Germs, Viruses and Epidemics…and the Simple Ways to Protect Yourself in a Danger – eBook By Frederic Saldmann / Hachette Books

Kitchen Rules Tea Towel By Christian Art Gifts Gift tea towel spells out in artisan font collage a happy set of Kitchen Rules. 20″ x 29.25″ 100% cotton, white, with black lettering Wash your hands, help set the table, say your prayers “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Psalm 34:8”, Try one bite of everything, eat your veggies, be thankful, kiss the cook…help clean up, enjoy family time Accented with kitchen art icons Gift basket add-in; hostess gift favorite

Faith Over Fear Stainless Steel Tumbler, Teal By Kerusso Activewear Steel tumbler with sipper lid, 10 ounce capacity for a generous cup of coffee plus your favorite add-ins Dual-walled stainless steel tumbler

• Keeps drinks hot or cold for hours
• Slide lid
• Sweat-free
• Hand wash
• Boxed
• Faith over fear. Psalm 118:6trending design graphics on teal tumbler

Nope Not Today Satan Stainless Steel Tumbler, Pink By Kerusso Activewear Steel tumbler with sipper lid, 10 ounce capacity for a generous cup of coffee plus your favorite add-ins Dual-walled stainless steel tumbler Keeps drinks hot or cold for hours Slide lid Sweat-free Hand wash Boxed Nope. Not today satan. . Trending graphics on hot pink tumbler

Faith Over Fear Cap, Denim By Kerusso Activewear When God is for us, no person, and no challenge, can stop us in our tracks. Because of our faith, we don’t have to give in to fear — it’s that simple. Wear this stylish Christian cap from Kerusso’s grace & truth® collection to share this brave message with those who don’t yet know the Lord. Cool baseball cap in blue denim with embroidered Scripture reference from Psalm 56:4 in tan. Front: Faith Over Fear Visor: Psalm 56:4 Side: grace & truth Cotton Twill for durability Top stitching and embroidery Mid-profile, 6-panel cap with pre-curved visor Adjustable velcro closure One size fits most

God, Love, and Marshmallow Wars: 365 Daily Challenges to Grow Your Marriage

By Julia M. Bruce / WestBow Press
There’s no doubt that marriage is hard work. Yet it can also be one of the most fulfilling relationships you can experience, outside of your relationship with God. However, many marriages leave God outside of the relationship. Godly marriages do not happen without cultivating it, investing in it, and putting God first in your individual lives and in your marriage.
This book includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

• Scripture to memorize and meditate on
• Conversation Starters
• Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages
• Romance Builders
• Relationship Builders
• Personal reflections
• Date ideas
• Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples