In our previous podcast 102, we interviewed Pastor Lance Ralston on the subject of Christians in the U.S., living in an increasingly totalitarian state. In Podcast 108, Lance shared with us about the place of suffering in the life of faith. Lance is talking about these things because he desires to equip the fellowship he pastors (CC Oxnard, CA) in preparation for the increasing likelihoodthat there could be some very tough times ahead for Christians in the U.S. Of course, there are many topics related to an increase in totalitarianism in a given nation … will the shape of the church change? Will believers who decide to disobey the evil directives of the state be ready for the inevitable consequences of that decision? As we talked, Lance mentioned some of the ways he is helping his church get discipled into being ready to suffer for being a Christian in today’s world. To get the full context of that discussion, you’ll be able to find it in podcast 102. So, Lance embarked on a study of the theology of suffering, and is currently preaching through a series on the subject. This podcast deals with the subject, when suffering comes to others. We need this wise counsel, and even more so as evil days increase, and as evil men continue to deceive and be deceived. So we’re going to dive right into it right now … so here we go with Pastor Lance Ralston on the subject of When Suffering Comes to Others.

The Christian life, when lived by the Holy Spirit, is not boring. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptance. Neither is the ministry of the pastor—and of his wife—boring, dull, or predictable. In this episode of SFTP, John and Laura Cowan sit down with show host Bill Holdridge and tell their story. It's an exciting one, to be sure, and it's continuing to be exciting as this godly, much loved couple continue serving, loving, trusting, and walking by faith. The power of testimony is awesome. The power of example is also amazing.

This episode has been published and can be heard everywhere your podcast is available. In this episode of SFTP, show host Bill Holdridge speaks with Poimen Ministries servants Phil and Susie Evans, as they tell their story of faith, victories, successes and changes. This is great encouragement for any pastor, young or old, as Phil and Susie recollect upon 45 years of pastoral ministry. From the early beginnings of church planting to their "golden years", where God is blessing in beautiful and powerful ways. Their story will captivate, comfort and hopefully embolden you to expect great things from God in your own ministry.

From hippie commune to the business world; from the business world to planting and pastoring a wonderfully fruitful church, from senior pastoral ministry to Poimen Ministries, and then on to the mission field with Poimen Ministries, and now back in the U.S. strengthening pastors and their wives … Bob and Jeanne Claycamp have seen and experienced much. Listen to their story as they tell of the faithfulness and power of God through willing vessels. Being used of God … many lessons contained in this couple’s life together.