Following a years-long effort by a pro-life coalition, an abortion center in Selma, Alabama, that had been operating illegally has finally closed its doors. Yet as one deeply involved for over a decade in Alabama’s movement to protect innocent lives, I saw how prayer played a role in these events as never before.

I received a call May 21, 2015, from Catherine Davis of The Selma Project. She asked that Bound4LIFE Birmingham take part in a historic march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. She was calling for intercessors, unnamed and without fame, who would fast and pray for the mission of uprooting an illegal abortion business run by Samuel Lett—a back-alley abortionist using The Central Alabama Women’s Clinic as his office. Terry Gensemer of CEC (Charismatic Episcopal Church) for Life had uncovered this horrific reality two years before. He joined efforts with Davis and other pro-life leaders to end this injustice in the state.

On June 19, intercessors gathered to pray and the next day to march. We squeezed into a small sanctuary and lost no time in praying and crying out for Jesus to hear us in our trouble, in our darkness, in our sin. Pro-life intercessors prayed on the microphone, interceding as the packed church agreed fervently for Jesus’ life to break open injustice in Selma. The groundwork was being laid that night. We were preparing the steps for the march the next morning.

The march was the public declaration of God’s intercessors taking hold as conquerors, trusting in the power of the One who responds to our weak cries. It was a beautiful picture of the church, holding together and pressing forward in prayer for justice and life. As we came to the end of the bridge, we gathered for a press conference—asking for state authorities to take action and prevent Samuel Lett from continuing his illegal and horrific business.

We did not need to wait longer than the end of the year to get a glimpse of the victory. Gensemer announced Dec. 30 that the abortion center had shut down, and the historic city of Selma could be considered abortion free.

We praise God for His mercy and His hand on our land. We move forward to pray deeper, to march further for freedom, for the future generations of our nation and all nations. The Word of God speaks directly to what our nation faces today. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, we see what God spoke millennia ago to a national leader: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Two people were killed in an apparent murder-suicide at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio on Friday that triggered a lockdown at the facility, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office said.

“It’s over,” Bexar County Sheriff’s office spokesman James Keith said, adding that deputies were still on the scene. The lockdown on the facility and nearby schools has been lifted, the office said.

The commanding officer of the 331st K-9 Training Squadron at the base was shot by an airman, according to the Air Force Times, an independent news outlet, citing internal Pentagon communications. Neither person was immediately identified by the news outlet.

The victims have not been identified by the sheriff’s office.

The incident took place at the Medina annex at the facility, where dog training takes place.

Keith said the sheriff’s office did not believe there were other victims but deputies were searching buildings “out of an abundance of caution.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation was called to assist and has taken the lead in the case, the sheriff’s office said. {eoa}

© 2016 Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved.

Pastors Ronnie and Krystal Stewart of Refuge Church want to live a life of faith in all they do, which meant they refused to leave two toddlers alone with parents too high to function.  

Now, the Stewarts are in the process of adopting two little boys whom they found outside another church. 

“I asked my husband, ‘Since the parents are high and refuse to go to a shelter, should we just ask them if they want us to take the babies home for a warm bath & bed for the night?'” Krystal said.  

“‘Ummm they said yes…’ were the next words I heard. Without hesitation they put an old, blue polo shirt they had gotten from the church on the toddler and handed me the baby in the car seat,” Krystal said of the November encounter. “I asked the parents the babies names as we drove away not realizing I didn’t even know what to call them. Within 5 minutes of driving down the road, the rain began to fall and I couldn’t help but stare in my rear view mirror amazed and overwhelmed that God provided a refuge for these boys, and chose to use my home to do so. After returning them to their parents Saturday, we prayed as a family that God would protect the sweet boys and always provide a shelter for them (never dreaming it would be with us).” 

The Stewarts say they believe God has placed the boys in their lives for a reason.  

The family has raised more than $30,000 to assist with the adoption process.  

To read more of their story, click here. 

Nationally syndicated radio host Mark Levin, a staunch supporter of U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) for president, is well-known for his tough talk, particularly for those he thinks are wrong on the issues that matter most to the country.

He unloaded some of his “tough love” for the #NeverTrump voters during his show on Wednesday:

Now those people out there, those people out there who are saying, “Stop Trump” … I can understand “Stop Trump” in a primary process, but stop Trump or you’ll vote for Hillary? Stop Trump or you won’t vote at all?

“These people are not conservatives. They’re not constitutionalists. They’re frauds. They’re fakes. They’re not brave. They’re asinine. They’re buffoons.”

Levin continued, laying out a laundry list of problems he says Hillary Clinton is at least partially responsible for: the rise of ISIS, Benghazi, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s provocations, and China’s aggressions against its neighbors. He then asked how anyone who acknowledged those problems could possibly take any steps—passively or affirmatively—that would put her in the Oval Office.

“How could you do it under these circumstances as bad as the Republican may be? How could you stay home and allow that? Or worse, how could you vote for that? That’s a disgrace, an absolute disgrace.

“So you duke it out in the Republican primary process. You duke it out in the Republican convention. You insist that rules are rules and the rules be followed. And you call them out if they try to change them …

“But you do not vote for Hillary Clinton. Or you don’t stay home [and cry], ‘Wah, my candidate isn’t nominated,’ and let the Left elect their favorite candidate. Not in this election. That’s my view.”

Every man has a story, and every man is in the midst of a story. God is the ultimate author of all things, including my story and your story (Rom. 8:28, 11:36). A man cannot truly step into Authentic Manhood until he begins to see his life as a narrative—an epic adventure, a tragedy and a comedy all rolled up into one, with an ending that has yet to unfold!

I remember in my 20s being in a small group of men and being challenged by them to write down my heritage, my high points, my hurts and my heroes for the purpose of sharing my life story with the group. Being encouraged to look back, put my story on paper and share those discoveries with other men was powerful. Giving focused attention to my past, giving voice to the shaping influences of my life and sharing the good, the bad and the ugly of all that is me with trustworthy men was profound. Equally as powerful was hearing them do the same and realizing that though my story is unique, as a man, I am not alone. We all have been shaped by defining moments, decisions, painful experiences and personal relationships.

In my 30s, that “look back” got enhanced and nuanced as I listened to Dr. Robert Lewis teach Men’s Fraternity and the Quest for Authentic Manhood. Men’s Fraternity was the movement that birthed and inspired 33 The Series. I was struck by Robert’s clarity in telling his own story. His discoveries from his past were like keys that unlocked significant doors in his present. I learned from Robert that we are all deeply influenced by our fathers, mothers, friends, mentors and even our own hearts.

We all have been shaped by defining moments, decisions, painful experiences and personal relationships.

In my 40s, the role of “story” went nuclear as I invested in several significant experiences with intensive counseling. Trusted, skilled and trained men led me through experiences that forced me to look back into my story and explain me to me. They helped me not only process my life experiences, but also capture the emotions that went with those experiences.

What started on those couches was a rediscovery of my heart. As a young man, I learned to live out of my head, not out of my heart. I learned to think and accomplish, but I forgot how to feel. Here’s the problem: living out of your head and with your hands usually works well in school, work and with machinery but not so well with God, your spouses, kids and friends. Those closest to you want your heart.

It is my deep desire that every man who experiences 33 The Series will not only be equipped, but will also have the courage to “look back” so that he knows his story, understands his own heart and is able to give his heart to those he loves. Chip Dodd cast a vision for me to “Live fully, love deeply and lead well;” and that is my desire for every man on the journey to Authentic Manhood.

For the original article, visit .

Almost 17 million Americans had plastic surgery last year. Apparently, a personal image still matters to many people.

In research conducted by the NFO WorldGroup, 87 percent of adults would like to change at least one part of their body for appearance reasons. Only 18 percent of men and 10 percent of women are happy enough with their bodies that they wouldn’t change a thing.

It seems easy to conclude that we care much more about our physical appearance than we do our innermost, spiritual condition. We are exposed to multiple messages on a daily basis about how to improve our image.

Jesus taught us to focus on the authentic self rather than some contrived image. Jesus spoke hard sayings. He often withdrew from His following into a desert place for prayer. He challenged the self-righteous.

Jesus wasn’t concerned with His public persona.

There’s a leadership lesson here.  

Often, leaders fail to do the right thing because they care more about being liked than they care about being principled. Some leaders consider their “company image” before saying or doing things that are correct, but unpopular.

Our spiritual image is developed “line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little” (Is. 28:10).

The spiritual nips and tucks are not plastic.

Plastic things are not eternal.

P.S. Do you subscribe to Ministry Today? Will you please consider doing it? 

With the link below you will receive my special publisher’s offer. Our baseline subscription is $. My offer to you is a one-year subscription (6 issues) for $.

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Please click here today for the Dr. Greene special.

Today’s Scripture:

“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect comes, then that which is imperfect shall pass away. … For now we see as through a glass, dimly, but then, face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know, even as I also am known” (1 Cor. 13:9-10, 12).

Platform Tip No. 94

Don’t be vague about your message. Be clear. Perfectly clear.

First, be clear about who you are trying to help. Define your audience in very narrow terms.

Second, think narrow cast not broadcast. It’s even better to think about just one person in need.

Third, be clear about your frequency. Tell your audience how often you will show up and then do it. And keep doing it.

Do you want to learn more about developing your personal platform?

Send for my free series of lessons titled, “The Fundamentals of Creating, Curating and Developing Content for Multiple Platforms.” Send your request to: platform@.

This is an exclusive offer to Ministry Today and “Greenelines” readers. 

We will not share your email address with anyone. 

{eoa}

Priscilla Shirer, star of War Room, asked for fans’ prayers as she prepares for the release of her book, The Prince Warriors. 

“To make a long story short, to date, we have had to reject tens of thousands of copies of the book because of trouble with the printer regarding the quality of the books that we have received. Please know that there are many people working feverishly to get these books into your hands. We hope that the delay is a sign of how much power this book contains—how impactful it will be to your Prince and Princess Warriors!” according to a release. 

READ: ‘War Room’s’ Priscilla Shire on the Power of Prayer

The Prince Warriors is a trilogy of supernatural battles written by Shirer with Gina Detwiler. According to the book’s website, the fictional novels bring to life the spiritual battles and truths discussed in Ephesians 6.  

Shirer and B&H Publishing are asking for these specific prayer requests as the trilogy approaches release:

• “That God’s favor would be upon the printer and that we would get copies in that are able to be approved.”
• “That the books will ship soon so that we can honor our commitment to you and your Prince and Princess Warriors.”
• “That the series would inspire kids and deepen their desire to dig into Scripture and grow their relationships with Christ.”

“We are so grateful for each of you—for your support and the excitement that you’ve expressed surrounding the series. We are praying for you to be able to have meaningful and intentional conversations regarding spiritual warfare with your kids—that you may all wear your armor and stand firm against the enemy together,” the release concludes. 

Does God give up on people who reject Him repeatedly? The question plagues many, but evangelist Billy Graham has an answer.  

“God welcomes anyone—absolutely anyone—who sincerely turns to Him in repentance and faith, even at the last minute,” Graham said. 

Take the thief on the cross beside Jesus as an example. In Luke 23, the thief recognized Jesus as the Messiah, and Jesus assured the man they would be in paradise together.  

But there was another on the trio of crosses—one who continued to mock Jesus.  

“God cannot save someone who refuses to be saved—and when a person repeatedly turns his or her back on Christ, their heart grows more and more hardened toward God. As a result it becomes easier and easier for them to resist God’s call, and—like that unrepentant criminal—they are in danger of refusing to turn from their stubborn unbelief,” Graham said. 

“Only God can change our hearts, and only God can break through the barriers your neighbor has built. Pray for him, that God will break through those barriers and draw him to Jesus. Pray too that God will help you be an example to him of the hope and new life we have because of Christ,” Graham said. 

In 41 years in Congress, both as a Representative and as a six-term Senator, there’s been one constant with regard to U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa): when his mind is made up, he doesn’t budge.

Not even a fraction of an inch.

The Senate Judiciary Committee chairman has taken to the floor of the Senate on an almost daily basis to discuss the current impasse between Republicans and President Obama over his appointment of Chief Judge Merrick Garland to succeed the late Associate Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court.

Equal parts policy statements and pep rallies, those speeches usually take shots at Democrats, and sometimes the court itself. But his most recent speech put the bullseye squarely on the president.

“It’s no secret that the White House strategy is to put pressure on me and other Republicans in the hopes that we can be worn down and ultimately agree to hold hearings on the nominee,” he said. “This ‘pressure campaign,’ which is targeted at me and a handful of my colleagues, is based on the supposition that I will ‘crack’ and move forward on consideration of President Obama’s pick.

“This strategy has failed to recognize that I’m no stranger to political pressure and strong-arm tactics. Not necessarily from Democrat presidents, probably more from Republican presidents. When I make a decision based on sound principle, I’m not about to flip-flop because the left has organized a ‘pressure campaign.'”

Grassley told his colleagues the American people have a “unique opportunity” in 2016 to have a voice in the direction of the Supreme Court. He said they should be afforded the opportunity to weigh in on this matter.

“Our side believes very strongly that the people deserve to be heard and they should be allowed to decide, through their vote for the next President, the type of person who should be on the Supreme Court,” he said. “As I’ve stated previously, this is a reasonable approach, it is a fair approach and it is the historical approach—one echoed by then-chairman Biden and Senator Schumer and other senators.”

As to the “pressure campaign,” Grassley listed the numerous times he’s faced pressure from the GOP leadership, including pressure from President Ronald Reagan over his first budget. As a freshman senator at the time, Grassley refused to vote in favor of the budget because it wasn’t balanced, which dealt a blow to the brand-new president.

He didn’t fold then, he said, and he won’t fold now.

“[Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.)] also recently proclaimed that rather than follow Leader McConnell, ‘Republicans are sprinting in the opposite direction.’ He also wishfully claimed that the Republican façade was cracking on the issue,” he said. “[Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.)] fancifully stated, ‘Because of the pressure, Republicans are beginning to change.’

“You can almost hear the ruby slippers on the other side clicking while they wish this narrative were true. The fact is, the pressure they’ve applied thus far has had no impact on this Senator’s principled position.

“Our side knows and believes that what we’re doing is right, and when that’s the case, it’s not hard to withstand the outrage and pressure they’ve manufactured. This pressure pales in comparison to what I’ve endured and withstood from both Democrats and Republicans in the past.”

Research has shown that certain exercises may help to ease depression. The reason is chemical. Exercise boosts endorphins, which offer powerful boosts to your sense of well-being, according to Everyday Health.

“Your favorite fitness routine can be an excellent addition to your depression treatment plan,” Everyday Health noted.

Weightlifting is also good for those suffering with depression, according to . It is especially helpful for women.

The website cited research at Harvard University that determined that 10 weeks of weight training cut clinical symptoms of depression better than counseling.

“Strength training is about mastery and control,” clinical psychologist Leslie Seppinni told Everyday Health. “It requires full attention and concentration. More importantly, people can see the results, the outline of the muscles forming, from dedication and training.”

Running not only is a good aerobic exercise, but it also offers mental health benefits. Starting with a walk and continuing that daily, building up to a run, could help cut back feelings of depression, WebMD reported.

“The days you feel least like exercising are the most important days to get out and do it,” author Keith Johnsgard, a psychology professor at San Jose State University, told WebMD. “Those are the days when you will feel best after doing it.”

“To date, the strongest evidence seems to support aerobic exercise,”Dr. David Muzina told Everyday Health, which noted that studies found no correlation between exercise intensity and its benefit.

“The most tangible example of exercise stimulating certain brain chemicals is the runner’s high that many athletes report experiencing once crossing a certain threshold of exertion while running,” explained Muzina said.

For the original article, visit .