Ministry Updates
October Update 2011
Today I would like to share with you that God is Faithful. We hear that so many times, but do we believe it. We put a lot of emphasis on human responsibility and action and sometimes negate the power of God to complete His work in His people. God has told us that He would be with us and never leave or forsake us. That is good news. He has told us that His grace is sufficient. I don’t know what you face, but God is faithful. People are sometimes unfaithful and disappoint us, but God will not. Trust Him today in every area of your life.
I just returned from Bethel Church in Tampa, FL. I spoke to the men about “The Identity of a Man”. We had a great time together. It was refreshing to hear some of the guys say what the Lord did for them over the weekend. This week I travel to Wagener, SC to speak at Harvest of Love Outreach Ministries with Pastor Virgil Bynum. I invite any of my South Carolina friends to join me.
Hidden Treasures Update: It looks like the Meija family will move in the first weekend of December. I am thankful for the good news. We hope to start the first cottage after the first of the year. We are also working on a new web site that should be up soon to give more information.
Mexico: I leave for Morelia, Mexico on Nov. 8 and speak Nov. 9-13…
August Update 2011
Dear Friends,
The power of our choices has been on my top burner lately. At age six I made a choice to follow Jesus Christ as my savior. At age 15, I made a choice to submit to what I believed was the call of God on my life to preach the Gospel. I made choices to quit Florida State University and start traveling to churches. I made a choice to marry Sharon (29 years ago on August 7 and one of my better choices). Our choices are important. Choices lead to actions. Actions lead to lifestyles. The woman eating out of a trash can did not decide to do that this morning. She is a product of her choices. Some people make little choices, instead of big choices. I don’t decide every week if I will fellowship with other believers. I made a big choice years ago, and now that decision is already made for me.
We blame so many people for our shortcomings. Our teachers, preachers, siblings, parents and even God get blamed for many of the choices WE make in our lives. Start making correct choices today and trust God for new outcomes.
Above all choose God. In Joshua 24, Joshua speaks to the people to choose whom they will serve, but then he declares that he and his house will serve the Lord. I cannot control other peoples choices, but I can make choices for me and my family. It is time to come against selfishness and selfcenteredness and…
December Update 2011
Dear Friends,
Merry Christmas!! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas Season.
One of the great truths concerning Christmas is that Christ came to us. So many times we tend to think that we came to Him. It was the love of God for His creation that caused Him to send His Son. He came to redeem us. He came to bring us abundant life. He came to be our savior, Lord and King. Today in the midst of destruction, condemnation, and death, Jesus comes and brings light, hope and a future. This is God’s world and He wants to destroy every work of the enemy. I believe that God will come to you today in the middle of whatever you are going through. You may think He is not interested, but I believe He cares and knows what you are dealing with. Jesus is making Himself real to you today. Give Him an opportunity to work. Stop for just a moment and talk to Him. He has come to you to bring you joy. I trust Him today to work a miracle in your life.
Missions:
Costa Rica: Things continue to go forward with the Hidden Treasures project. It now looks like the Mejia’s may not move in until after the first of the year. There are always last minute things that need to take place and with Christmas and it being Costa Rica, it is taking a little longer. Our first team of the year from New…
November Update 2011
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from Morelia, Mexico. I spoke numerous times at Filadelphia Church with Pastor Eric Rodriguez. I am so thankful for the blessings of the Lord. Time after time, Pastor Eric shared that the messages were on target and met the people at the point of their need. I spoke for the men and almost every man in the house came forward for prayer to become what God desired of them. I spoke to the youth about what real success is. They responded with a heart for the touch of God. I have been going to Morelia for eight years. It is good to have this relationship and know that God has knit us together.
I spoke for Pastor James Sutton on Friday night in Manassas, VA. His comment was that I had taken the last two messages he had preached and tied them together and spoke prophetically to the people. I share these things because the desire of my heart is to hear the voice of God and be obedient to Him. I love to help pastors and churches move to another level in their life with the Lord. Keep praying for me that I will speak a clear word.
Mission Trips: I am planning to go to Viet Nam and speak for the Assembly of God pastors conference in March. These are pastors who have been persecuted for their faith. I believe this is a divine appointment. I will then travel to Cambodia and minister at another…
September Update 2011
Dear Friends,
Last month I wrote about choices. I had a number of people respond. One parent shared that they talked about my newsletter at the dinner table with their children. This month I want to talk about discernment. There are many words and expressions floating around today. All of them are not Biblical. The scripture says to “Buy the truth and sell it not”. Truth is valuable. People distort truth and even call in professionals to tell us the truth. I urge you today to not be gullible. Here are some areas of concern.
Be careful about those who major on minors. I don’t want to be known for what I am against, but that I am “for” God and His Kingdom.
Be careful about those who gain maturity too quickly. I believe it is still a process.
Be careful concerning those who elevate emotional experience above the principles of God’s Word.
Be careful concerning teachings that will not work in every culture. God is concerned about the world, not just America.
Be careful of those teachings that diminish the power of the cross. Repentance is still the necessary in the life of the believer.
There are others, but maybe these will help you to think through some areas. These are days of deception. All of us can be deceived. Some people talk about their new revelation. My question is why hasn’t God revealed those truths to others. God cares for and loves each of us. He is not wanting to withhold anything from us….
June Update 2011
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from Poland and France. We had wonderful meetings in both countries. It did take us some effort to get there. Traveling is never easy, but sometimes it is really frustrating. Our flight was four hours late leaving Dallas, TX. That caused us to miss our flight in London to Warsaw. Then because of bad weather, all flights were canceled. We had to stay overnight in London and get flights the next day. Our team was separated. We stood in lines for over 8 hours to get taxis, rebook and go through security. Then we were an hour late arriving into Warsaw because President Obama arrived just before us. Always something new happening. After arriving at midnight, a day and a half late, the seminar went well. Chris and Angela Hough both taught, along with Steve Rannells. I shared on Saturday night and Sunday morning.
The pastor of the church in Torun, Poland has become a great friend. Jacek is about to be 40 years old. He shared on Sunday morning that we had been coming to Torun for eight years. He spoke of our commitment with tears in his eyes. He said many others said they were coming back, but we had kept our word. I believe this is an important lesson for our day. Commitment to our Word is important. Consistency of life will make a difference in the lives of those around us. We give excuses for not telling the truth and not…
May Update 2011
Dear Friends,
It has been a busy season for me. I have traveled more in the last few weeks than anytime I remember. God has met us in so many ways. We have seen lives changed and many have testified of either healing or a time of restoration in the Lord. I am thankful for His touch on so many lives. I had the opportunity to speak at my home church, Evangel Assembly of God, in Tallahassee, FL on Mother’s Day. I honored my mom and we had a great time of prayer for many at the altar. The services at Faith Family Church in N. Augusta, SC were powerful with God’s presence. Thank all of you for your prayers for us as we deliver what God has put in our heart.
Tornados in Alabama: With the combined efforts of Discovery Family Ministries and Gary Browning, we were able to send a check to Tuscaloosa First Assembly of God for $3150.00. We have about $200 more to send. Thanks to those who contributed. There is still a great need and you can donate anytime.
Earthquake: When the team arrived in Costa Rica on Friday, May 13, we experienced a 6.0 earthquake. It shook the hotel and caused the sidewalks to move. It provided the team with a unique testimony. We are thankful it did not do any damage to the house and did not cause much damage over the entire country.
Hidden Treasures Project: The team from Eagles Way Church in Griffin, GA…
April Update 2011
Dear Friends,
It is April and things are in bloom. One of the great things about this time of year is the new growth. The Bible speaks about becoming a new creation. I don’t think that is just a one time event. I believe we are always becoming new. If you became a new creation 25 years ago and have not moved in your spiritual life since that time, I would believe that you are no longer new. Our life in Christ is a daily experience. Every day we put aside the old, the ugly, the past: to embrace the benefits that God has provided to us. We celebrate Easter in a couple of weeks. It is because He lives, that we have new life. I want to ask you a couple of questions. Are you growing in your faith? Have you stagnated in your walk with God? Are you experiencing everything that a new creation should experience? If not, you should be!! Allow the life of God to permeate you today and be intentional in your desire to grow. Don’t miss the opportunities to share, to bless, to live!
I had a great opportunity to be at Eagles Way Church the last weekend in March. We celebrated the 60th birthday of my friend Buren Goss and the fact he and Barbara have been pastors there for 35 years.I have had the blessing of knowing them for 35 years. It was a wonderful weekend with many testimonies of the grace of God….
March Update 2011
Dear Friends,
Spring looks like it is finally here. It has been a cold winter, even here in LA (Lower Alabama). Seasons are necessary for growth. We don’t always like the season we are in, but it is important to prepare us for the next season. Winter helps roots to grow deep and strong. I don’t know what you are facing today, but God will help you through this season and into the next. Don’t quit too soon. Don’t believe a lie that you can’t make it. Another season is just around the corner.
We are experiencing a wonderful presence of God in our meetings. There have been testimonies of healing and we have seen several make decisions in their lives to follow Christ. I spoke last week at the church in San Jose, Costa Rica where Hugo Zelaya is the pastor. People were responding the touch of the Holy Spirit during the entire service.
I have just returned from working on the Hidden Treasures Construction Project in Costa Rica. The third team from Grace Temple, Hattiesburg, MS helped pour the second floor and build walls. I even laid block! On the last day it rained, but the team worked anyway. At the end of the day, a beautiful rainbow formed over the site. It seemed that God smiled on us. We hope that the roof will go on in a few weeks and then we need some electricians to help with the wiring. A team from Covenant Church in Mobile, AL…
February Update 2011
Dear Friends,
We have just concluded Valentine’s Day. A lot of chocolate was eaten, flowers given and words of love shared. It is a fun day. The truth is we need more than one day to develop the relationships God wants us to have. How are things in your home? In your family? At Work? At Church? We live in a day where many relationships are dysfunctional. Traditional families have almost become non-existent. Friendships have to have contracts to keep peace. We send e-mails to one another and text across the room. Churches are splintered and torn with internal upheavals about petty things. Statistics say that traditional churches across America are dying. Instead of being concerned with eternal values, we tend to focus on unimportant trivial concerns that take our focus off the Great Commission of Christ.
Jesus prayed that we might be one with Him and the Father. This would cause the world to desire fellowship with us and bring peace. I pray today that we might evaluate our relationships with one another and desire to mature. I pray that you might find relationships built on covenant that bring care, support and encouragement to you and to others. One of the greatest joys in my life are the friends who have stood side by side with me as we endeavor to reach the nations and touch lives with the love of God.
We are experiencing a fresh touch of God this year. While I believe there is shaking taking place, I also…
January Update 2011
Dear Friends,
A new year of possibilities is here. We stand at the door of lives changed, miracles, healing and blessings. I encourage you to find a way to reach out. Write a missionary, visit your neighbor, call an old friend, do a random act of kindness. You never know how God will use any of these things to help you make a new step in the right direction. I am always excited about new creative ways that God will expand His Kingdom.
I wrote last month about several needs and did not receive any replies. I know it was a busy time. Here they are again for your consideration.
Chris Dufrene is the youth pastor at Grace Temple in Hattiesburg, MS. His home burned down and he is in need of some help. If you would like to make a donation to Ronald Gray Ministries, I will send everything that comes in to him.
We still need a projector for the church in Costa Rica to use for power point presentations.
We need a cell phone with a removable SIM card to use for all of our trips for the Hidden Treasures Project.
I am going on my annual prayer a fasting retreat January 19-22. If you have any requests for prayer, please send them to me via email.
I plan this year to give myself more to helping our missionaries with encouragement and care. I plan to travel with Mike McCarty in June to China and Cambodia. I am taking several trips to…
December Update 2010
Merry Christmas to all our Friends,
I recently preached a message for this season titled, “The Reason Jesus Came”. I am so glad that He came to us. Here are some of the main points
He came to reveal the Father. John 1:18; 14:9
· He taught that the Father loves us. John 6:27
· He taught that the Father knows what we need before we ask. John 6:27
· The father will not withhold any good thing from His children. Matt. 7:11
· That all may become His children. Matt. 5:45
He came to fulfill the law. Matt. 5:17
He came to serve. Matt. 20:28
He came to save the world. John 3:16
He came to preach the Kingdom of God. Luke 4:43, Isaiah 9:6
He came to give abundant life. John 10:10
My prayer is that you will receive the abundant life today. Don’t live beneath the circumstances of life. but enjoy what He has provided for you.Special Needs:
Christ Dufrene is the youth pastor at Grace Temple, Hattiesburg, MS. His house burned down a couple of weeks ago. Any offerings you could designate would be greatly appreciated. You can send them to me and I will forward the complete amount to him.
A projector for the church in Costa Rica where Hugo Zelaya is the pastor. Their projector they use for…
November Update 2010
Dear Friends,
I hope this letter finds you doing well.
Some of you may not know, but my father passed away on October 12 in Tallahassee, FL. He was 96 years old. Dad (Parks L. Gray) was a good man. He raised four boys and taught us many Godly principles. He helped us to understand integrity, excellence and finishing what you start. I was thankful to be in the room with him in his final hours. A young lady from Hospice was playing the guitar and singing “ How Great thou Art”. We were all either singing or humming that great chorus when Dad took his last breath and moved from here to heaven. He had shared on many occasions a vision he had of heaven. I believe he is there now enjoying eternity. It gave me time to reflect again on death and dying. For the child of God, death is not something to fear, but a door for us to enter into what God has prepared for us. Too many Christians today spend their time trying to live life to the fullest, and they don’t realize that real life begins when we take our last breath. We should not be afraid of death, nor quit living our lives, but do everything in a way that pleases our Father in heaven. I encourage you today to make sure where you will spend eternity and engage in an activity that prepares you for that time.
I had the recent opportunity…
October Update 2010
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from Kenya, Africa. What a great trip. We were able to dedicate the Dr. LeRoy Curtis Training Hall. I had the privilege of helping take several teams to work on the construction of that building. It is the finest building in the entire region. It will be used to train pastors and leaders for many generations. It will also be used for weddings, seminars and conferences. The money raised from renting it out will help pay for many students for our school. Paul Petrie from Brussels, Belgium was the main speaker. He was instrumental in the vision of this school. Thank God for people who see the future and trust God for things they cannot see. He took LeRoy Curtis and Harmon Parker with him and they felt that God wanted to have a training center for pastors. LeRoy wrote a curriculum to teach the Word of God inductively. Harmon helped with construction and guidance. LeRoy hurt his back in 1997 and had to come back to the USA. Gary Henley felt that the work should continue and talked with Larry Neese. He felt God speak to him and took the leadership of the school and has touched many lives over the last eleven years. Kenya Ministry Training Institute and Uganda Ministry Training Institute are making a difference in the heart of Africa. Dwayne Higgason, pastor of Grace Temple Ministries in Hattiesburg, MS, traveled with me. He and the church have contributed money and…
September 2010 Update
Dear Friends,
What a great time I had in Morelia, Mexico. While there are many problems in Mexico right now, there are also many people who are seeking the Lord. Filadelphia Church is a growing group of believers that have a heart for the Kingdom of God. I spoke twice on Friday night concerning Worship. I was reminded of Isaiah in Chapter Six. Isaiah saw the Lord in a moment of difficulty. I believe you will see what you are looking for. God wants our focus to be on Him. I choose to see Him high and lifted up, sitting on His throne.
He is glorious and majestic.
His throne is above all competition and contradictions.
It is a throne of government under which we serve.
It is an everlasting throne.
Once we see Him, we bow to His will in our lives. Isaiah said, “Here am I, send me”
I urge you today to take time to bow at His throne and worship Him. Allow the manifested presence of God to overwhelm you. In His presence, your life will gain it’s proper perspective.
I want to say thank you to those who have helped with the finances for my Kenya trip. $2650 has been given thus far. I still need at least $1200. The trip is Sept. 21 through Oct. 4. I will be traveling with Pastor Dwayne Higgason. We will help dedicate the new LeRoy Curtis Training Center, teaching a pastors conference and teaching two business seminars in Kitale and Nayahururu….
August Update 2010
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from two weeks in Guatemala. There were two different teams that joined me. The first team was from Christ the King Church, St. Louis, MO and Wings of Life Ministries, Mobile, AL. They ministered to children and also served the homeless at The Lord’s Kitchen. What a great time we had. One night after a service, I felt two arms around me. I was momentarily surprised, but turned to see one of the Mayan women weeping and saying, “Thank you, Thank you”. Those are moving moments and help you to see that is important to touch even one person with the love of Jesus. The other team was from Starkville, MS. It consisted of four father/son teams and several young men that joined us. Both teams also worked on the home of one of the families in the church that lost their home in a mud slide. The home is just two rooms and a front porch. Every shovel full of dirt taken from the house had to be taken 400 steps down a steep hill and dumped. Then bags of rock, sand and cement had to be taken up the hill. It was difficult work, but we were able to make some good time and be a blessing to this family. I believe that enough money was given for them to finish the house. The Guatemalans go up and down that hill every day. It is amazing.
Things are going well with preparations to help…
July Update 2010
Dear Friends,
We are experiencing a lot of difficulty on the Gulf Coast. Oil is affecting everything. The news reports that this could be a record year for hurricanes. Jobs are scarce. People are fearful and discouraged. I find these are times we must put our trust in the Lord. The Bible says for us not to fear. Give it no place. Fear paralyzes and keeps us from going forward. I know there are many difficulties, but God will help us through these times. He Never Fails! Once we allow fear to get into our lives, it never wants to let go. God has given us Power, Love and a Sound Mind. I encourage you today to not fear, but have faith in God.
I just returned from Costa Rica after traveling with my pastor, Charles Simpson. His daughter and son in law live in San Jose, Costa Rica and serve in the mission, Hidden Treasures. Hidden Treasures is a “Family for children without Family”. Enrique and Charlyn have adopted seven children besides having two of their own. Their desire is to have a place where there are at least five homes with house parents who sustain a family of five to ten children. The initial need is to build a central home where they would live and then use this home as a center for the other families and children.
Enrique and Charlyn have desired this for a number of years, but have fought battles on every side. The government has…
June Update 2010
Dear Friends,
I just ended a week’s vacation with my family. Sharon, Braxton, my daughter Laura and her husband Aubrey, and their two girls, Savannah and Addison just spent a week in south Louisiana. We were able to swim, fish, play and even go to the zoo. It has been a very busy year for me thus far, and the next six months will also be full. God teaches us to rest and to make sure we spend time with our families. I am so glad for my wife, children and grandchildren. We enjoy our time together. They deal with a lot of things while I travel. I try to make sure they get some of my best when I am in town and endeavor to make our times memorable. I encourage you to take some time with your family this summer. Talk to each other and share some fun and laughter together.
I recently returned from my trip to Europe. The time in Paris was very good as I met with pastors from Horizon, International. Robert Baxter pastors a great church in Paris and has helped to launch many other ministries. Pastors came from different places around the world. Gordon Green and I were able to share at a business seminar after the conference on a Tuesday night. We had a good crowd and a lot of interest in understanding Kingdom business dynamics. I then traveled to Brussels to visit Paul and Rebecca Petrie. They have been used by…
May Update 2010
Dear Friends,
The Lord is Great and Greatly to be praised!
The last month has been extremely busy. I traveled extensively across the Southeast. I ministered the Word at several church and also took part in a conference. I also have the joy to serve on the board of International Outreach Ministries. It is exciting to hear of all that God is doing in the world. We are a small group, but having impact in so many areas. We have missionaries rescuing children from becoming sex slaves in Cambodia, reaching prostitutes in China, and bridging cultural chasms with Muslims. What a difference a life that is dedicated to God makes in people. The men I serve with are committed to taking the Gospel to the Whole World in every way we can.
Our missionary in Kenya, Larry Neese, is in a great need of a new vehicle. He is driving a 1993 Montero that he has nursed and repaired all he can. We need to raise about $35,000 for another vehicle. Kenya has a 100% tax on vehicles, so a $15,000 car costs $30,000. The roads are terrible and create difficulties. He needs something he can depend on. God has provided a $10,000 matching grant. We need to raise $10,000 to get $10,000. Would you consider helping in this project? I go to Kenya every year. Larry is making a difference in so many lives through Kenya Ministry Training Institute and our new work in Uganda. You can give through the web…
April Update 2010
April Update
Ronald Gray
Apr 6, 2010
Dear Friends,
I recently preached a message I titled, “Beyond Sunday Mornings”. I believe that God wants us to be activated for His Kingdom every day of the week. We have a tendency to compartmentalize our lives. We go to church on Sunday mornings, but don’t allow ourselves to be used during the week. God expects us to be conduits for Him. There should be miracles happening at the work place. Recently a man shared at my home church in Tallahasse, Florida that he came to the Lord through me and several others, witnessing to him while working at Gayfers department store almost 40 years ago. The real action in our faith should be during our daily lives.
I believe that business people are the forgotten members of the church. With that said, we are ready to launch Opportunity, Inc. We intend to help people find their God given destiny in being ministers of the Gospel. That does not mean standing up and preaching on Sunday. It means using your gifts every day in the place God has put you. We plan to provide teaching, conferences and a forum for people to exchange ideas. There is a need for people to be intentional in their witness. This ministry will also go to other nations and help fight poverty by releasing businesses and employing more people. God gave us a spirit of creation. He is a creative God and made us to be creative people.
Go to our…
March Update 2010
March Update
Ronald Gray
Mar 10, 2010
Dear Friends,
It looks like Spring is finally arriving. I am always glad for the change. I would like for it to stay about 65 degrees year round. That would be my request. But some people like it cold and some like it hot. Have you noticed how many different opinions there are in the world. Everyone seems to have their own ideas. The Bible teaches that there are ways which seem right to a man, but the end is death. Our desire should be to hear the truth of God in His Word and obey it. It is not about whether we agree with it or not. It is the truth. God’s Word will direct us and help us through many of our decisions if we will submit to it. I learned many years ago that following God’s Word would bring me to a place of blessings and purpose in my life. It is not to our benefit to try to manipulate God, but to allow Him to direct our steps in every area of our life.
These are exciting days in the presense of the Lord. We are seeing people make decisions to follow the Lord. There is a renewed commitment to seek the face of God and enter into His presence. I pray that God will give us a hunger and thirst for a fresh touch in our lives. The presence of God brings about peace, joy and destiny. Press into God with all…
February Update 2010
February Update
Ronald Gray
Feb 11, 2010
Dear Friends,
I hope this letter finds you doing well in this season. They are predicting that our area will have some snow tomorrow night. We have not had any real snow since 1996. It has been a cold winter for us. I look forward to the spring. The truth is that it is good for a change in seasons. The change helps life to function properly. We all like different seasons for different reasons. Some like the cold and some like the heat. Some like seasons because of the sports played during those times. Each season has a purpose. I believe that whatever season you are in right now, it is to help you. The will of God is to make us into more. His desire is for us to learn everything we need to know in this season, so that we might be more productive in the next one. Don’t despise this season, Ask God what He wants you to learn. The next season of your life might be closer than you think.
I have several things I need to share with you this month.
I have a trip scheduled to Costa Rica June 22-30. Some have had to cancel and I have some openings. The cost is $1200 from Atlanta. Your cost can be checked from whatever city you live in. I must know by March 1.
I have a trip scheduled to Guatemala July 20-27. It has been planned for father/sons or for young men….
January Update 2010
January Update
Ronald Gray
Jan 12, 2010
Dear Friends,
Not only has this past year gone by quickly, but this past decade. Things are happening so fast, it is almost impossible to keep up. The good news is that we don’t have to. We need to remember that the most important area in our life is our relationship with our Father. He said to be still and know that He is God. Our trust is in Him. I recommend that we take a deep breath, settle down, and tune in to what He is saying. The good news is that He is talking. We just don’t hear Him all the time. His words do not have to be prefaced by “Thus says the Lord”. If fact, most of the time He speaks to us through various events in our lives. He gives gentle nudges towards the areas He desires for us to find. I am going away for a few days to spend time in His presence. I believe that it is more important now than ever. I am busier than I have ever been, but I need to close the door on interruptions and schedules.
I want to pray for you and your needs during these days I will be away. I also intend to just sit in His presence and listen. If there is something you want me to agree with you about, please send me a note. I have many requests already. I am expecting God to give answers through many…
December Update 2009
Decembler Update
Ronald Gray
Dec 8, 2009
Dear Friends,
It seems that we just started this year and now it is ending. I am amazed at how fast time seems to go. The truth is that it is a constant and does not change. It is what we do with our time that counts. My prayer is that I will use my time to extend the Kingdom of God. The Bible teaches us to count our days. They are important. Now any of you that know me believe that I like to enjoy days also. I advocate that it is important to take time to fish, hunt, golf and hang out with friends. Those are needful to bring rest to us. Those times also build relationships which bring life to us. I just think that too many people make excuses rather than use their time for Kingdom practices. There are always those that tell me that sometime in the future they want to go on a mission trip. Some of those have been telling me that for 30 years. When will it happen? Do all the planets have to line up? There will always be a crises of some nature or event that needs us, but I ask you to consider what you will do for the coming year. Jesus came to us. Who will we go to and share His message with this season?
My time in Kenya was great. We were able to finish the LeRoy Curtis Training Center. All it needs…
November Update 2009
November Update
Ronald Gray
Nov 4, 2009
Dear Friends,
I love this time of year. It is beautiful in Lower Alabama today. What a great time to live. God is moving. Are you moving? Some people have not moved in so long, they have gathered moss. I want to be a living stone, moving for the Kingdom of God. The scripture tells us in Matthew 6:33 to “Seek first the Kingdom of God”. It seems that we seek everything else and then His Kingdom. First means first! It is a priority. I urge you today to begin seeking God. Seek His face. David said in Psalm 42 that he panted after God, like the deer panted after the water. I desire a fresh encounter with God. I don’t want to live on my yesterdays. I have had some pretty good yesterdays. God has allowed me to touch a lot of people, but I want something new from God today. Spend some time in His presence today. Put His ways first in your life. Ask Him what He wants you to do. Don’t tell Him what you want to do. Then when He tells you, obey Him. Trust Him with your life.
We have had some wonderful meetings these past few weeks. God met us at Destiny Outreach Ministries in Tazewell, VA. Then we had a great time at Faith Family Church in North Augusta, SC. Rick and Rebecca Porterfield are the pastors. They were part of the church where I was pastor many…
September Update
Dear Friends,
God’s Grace. It is still amazing. Grace is not just unmerited favor, it is the empowerment of God for success. God gives and we receive. I think we limit the opportunities God puts before us. We also need to be careful at how we define success. Success is not just doing something well, it is finding the reason for your creation. God is always guiding us. He does not push us, but goes before us and calls out to us. I urge you today to listen to His voice. So many people want to be the leader, but it is those who help, that create harmony. I love music. I especially love hearing the different parts. It is those small notes and subtle lines that create the beauty. Don’t feel that what you are doing is worthless. Examine your heart to see if you are doing what you were created for. Then let God’s grace wash over you and know that He is pleased. I also add to not deceive yourself. Ask God if you are fulfilling your calling in life. Then go forward in that calling and enjoy His blessings.
I have just returned from a board meeting for International Outreach Ministries. What a joy it is to share fellowship with men who have such a heart for God. It is truly one of the greatest joys of my life. These men give their lives for the Kingdom. They look outwardly, beyond the walls of culture and countries, to…
August Update
August Update
Ronald Gray
Aug 18, 2009
Dear Friends,
What a day we are living in. There seems to be all kinds of confusion and difficulties around us. I pray today that God will give you His peace. He says that we can have peace that passes understanding. We cannot comprehend this with our minds. This peace comes from the inside, not the outside. Psalms 20:7-8 says; “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.” There are many today who claim to trust in the Lord, but they shake with every newscast or article that is negative. I choose today to trust in the Name of the Lord. He will save us and deliver us. I still believe God will make a way where there does not seem to be a way. That is His nature. God is not defined by the consequences of our lives. He is the same. I believe God wants you to rest in His peace today.
I have just returned from Waterbury, CT with Pastor Keith Stuarte at Living Faith Christian Center. I spoke for their mission banquet and then on Sunday morning. What a great time we had. Thank God for pastors who want to touch the world. There has been a fresh wind of the Spirit these last few weeks at Abundant Life Church in Mt. Juliet and Eagles Way Church in Griffin,…
July Update
July Update
Ronald Gray
Jul 8, 2009
Dear Co-Laborers,
I can’t believe how hot it has been this summer. I thought about praying for God to send me to somewhere like Switzerland next year during the summer. I don’t know what kind of response I would get. I believe God has a plan for our lives. We need to believe that our steps are ordered of the Lord. So many times we pray for God to lead us, and then we He does, we don’t believe it is Him. We need to remind ourselves that God’s ways are not only higher, but different than ours. God is concerned about more than this moment. He is interested in what we will be doing for the rest of our lives. When I was seven years old, my mother made me start taking piano lessons. I took them for six years. I kind of enjoyed it the first year or so, but I became very tired of all the practice sessions. I never dreamed that being able to play the piano would help me so much in my life. I have been able to play for all types of events. I have played the piano with some well known ministers, played in countries like Russia and played for my family. It has been a continual blessing for me and just when I think that I might not have any more opportunities, God opens up a door for me to lead worship or sing a song for…
June Update
June Update
Ronald Gray
Jun 22, 2009
Dear Friends,
I just returned from my trip to Nicaragua and Costa Rica. It was a great trip. The time in Ometepe with Missionary Tom Fritz was very meaningful. We were able to see the joy of about 14 pastor who are going through the Ministry Training Institute. This is the same material we use in Kenya. LeRoy Curtis developed Basic Inductive Bible Studies material and we have also translated The Covenant and the Kingdom book by Charles Simpson. Both of these materials help these rural pastors to learn the Word of God. Ometepe has about 40,000 people living on the island. There are two volcanos, one active and the other not. Wild horses roam the island. That is an incredible sight. You have to access the island by ferry.
LeRoy Curtis trained a man in Costa Rica named Josue to teach the curriculum. Josue now travels every month to Ometepe to teach these pastors. Tom Fritz also teaches women sowing lessons so that they can make some money. He has a large vision to reach this island.
I had a couple of fun experiences while crossing from Nicaragua to Costa Rica. I had to walk through the borders. I hired a young man to help me with the logistics. He helped me know which line to get in and get the correct paperwork. I though he was going to help me carry my luggage between borders, but he showed up with a large tricycle. He put my luggage…
March Update 2009
March Update
Ronald Gray
Mar 30, 2009
Dear Friends,
What a month this has been. I just returned from Poland where I had the opportunity to speak to over 60 men. The conference was in the mountains and it was a beautiful area. The men responded to the Word of God. They repented of their sins and sought a visitation of the Holy Spirit. Thank God for His redemptive love for us! I also spoke for a couple of different churches while I was in the country.
I go back May 6-18 to hold business conferences. Our team consists of Angela Hough from Dallas, TX, Bev Smallwood from Hattiesburg, MS and myself. We will be in several cities and also speaking at a university to business students. God is giving us increase in so many areas. Please pray with us for these gatherings. I need to raise about $2000.00 for expenses of this endeavor.
God has given us favor to expand our vision to other Kingdom Business efforts. I have several meetings in the next few weeks with various people to explore what God is saying. I believe that business seminars will open the doors into many countries. I will share more on this as it comes together.
I had sent out a note concerning my being on the Wisdom for Winning television program. It did not show the week I expected it to. Sorry for the wrong information. I am not sure exactly when it will air. I will try to let you know.
Tuscaloosa First Assembly…
February Update
February Update
Ronald Gray
Feb 16, 2009
Dear Friends,
God is moving by His Spirit. We have had tremendous moves of God in the last few weeks. The presence of God was strong at Cornerstone A/G in Anderson, SC. People came forward and were touched by God’s power. Last week I preached at Sorrento Christian Center in Sorrento, FL. It was a prophetic time in the Lord. The Word went forth and people were moved to seek the face of God. Last Sunday at Grace Temple in Hattiesburg, MS, we saw people again respond to the touch of the Lord. I am so excited about what is taking place. This is a time to take ground. No retreat, No fear and No waiting!
Some exciting testimonies. First Assembly of God, Tuscaloosa, AL, has committed to helping us finish one of the pastors homes in Costa Rica. They are giving the money and sending a team down March 26 – April 2. They have openings for a few other people to join them. If you would like to go help finish a pastors home, please contact me this week and I can give you the details. Grace Temple from Hattiesburg, MS (the church that started both pastors homes) plans to take a team down June 13-20 to finish the other pastors house. This is a wonderful blessing.
I plan to travel to Poland March 18-25 to minister at a men’s conference for at least 100 men. Please pray for this time that God will touch…
January Update
January Update
Ronald Gray
Jan 8, 2009
Dear Friends,
I hope that this year finds you full of hope. it seems that there are negative attitudes all around us. I know there are some difficulties taking place in many lives, but I want us to do what the scripture says for us to do and that is to “Lift up our heads”. Psalm 24:7-10 says these words:
7 Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, The LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O you gates! Lift up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. 10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory. SelahI declare to you today that the King of Glory is still in charge of all things. I want Him to enter in to my plans and my dreams. Don’t allow the media to dictate your attitude. I…
New Opportunities
A great opportunity is before us. I have been invited to speak to pastors in Viet Nam and Cambodia in March 2012. The Vietnamese church is still persecuted in many ways. Over 60 percent of the pastors have spent time in jail for their faith. I desire to share with them principles from God’s Word that expand the Kingdom of God. These pastors will take the messages and preach them to congregations all over the country. We will then travel to Cambodia and speak to pastors in that country. While it is more open than Viet Nam, it is still a very difficult country with a defensive attitude towards the Gospel. While in Cambodia, Mike McCarty and I will speak to a group of missionaries who work with International Outreach Ministries and rescue children who are being sold as sex slaves. This is a difficult ministry and we hope to give them encouragement. This trip will cost over $5000. We also would like to raise support for the pastors in Viet Nam. A gift of $100 will pay for transportaion, food and lodging for one pastor to come to the conference. If you give $100 or more towards this project, I will send you a sermon cd of your choice. Please pray about supporting this endeavor.
December Update
Dear Friends,
Merry Christmas to You! I pray this will be a blessed time in your life and the lives of your family. I pray that peace will abound in the midst of activities and travel. Make some time to rest and speak blessings to those around you.
I have just returned from Africa. Nine people went with me to Kenya to help build the Mama Beverly Guest House on the campus of Kenya Ministry Training Institute. We were able to build two dormitory rooms that will sleep eight people. We also built two bathrooms and showers. Grace Temple gave money for this project. We still need about $1500 to complete the task. I was able to preach the graduation of 23 students at the Nakuru satellite school. What a blessing as each one of these students shared what KMTI had meant to them. They said that they no longer preached heresy, but understood how to study God’s Word. They also shared they had learned how to treat their family with respect and love. This is so important in a culture that has operated on tradition instead of truth. You can make an investment by sponsoring a student for $600 per year. I also spent some time in an North Africa country visiting with some friends who are making a difference in the lives of many people. I traveled 25,000 miles in seventeen days with ten airplane segments.
I am working on our plans for next year. We plan to go back…
November Update
November Update
Ronald Gray
Nov 5, 2008
Dear Friends,
Some of you caught the mistake last month. I inadvertently sent out the October Update with the title September Update. Oh well. That’s what you get when you live in constant jet lag.
I pray this note finds you doing well. The elections are over. I pray we will keep praying and believing for God to reveal himself in these days. The good news today is that God is building His Church. I personally believe that we are in for some difficult times in the world’s system, but we will see God do great things in many lives. Look for opportunities to be used of God.
This weekend is the Enter to Worship – Exit to Serve Book Release Event here in Daphne. If you live in this area, I hope you will come. Details are on my web site. Thanks to Gary Browning and the congregation of Faithe Covenant church for helping to make this happen. We will be videoing the entire six sessions an making them available in a few weeks. You can check on that also on the web site. Cd’s will also be available. The book can be purchased now for $9.99 plus $2.50 for shipping and handling. Let me know if you would like to purchase some for you or for gifts.
I leave for Kenya, Africa on Monday, Nov. 10. Nine people from Grace Temple, Hattiesburg, MS will be going, a friend from Dallas, TX and myself. We intend to…
Enter to Worship, Exit to Serve Book Release Event
and Sunday morning service November 7-8-9
Presented by Faith Covenant Church in Daphne, Alabama
For 34 years Ronald Gray has ministered in over 38 countries throughout the world. Additionally, he speaks to churches and conferences of various denominations around the United States and abroad. In 2007 he logged more than 100,000 miles of ministry travels. He is on the board of International Outreach Ministries, leads short term mission trips, and has appeared on the “700 Club.”
His refreshing approach and vast experience within and outside the traditional church provide listeners the rich opportunity to broaden their perspective and deepen their personal experience with God. He believes this can be the finest hour for the church.
You are cordially invited to participate in the presentation of his newly released book Enter to Worship, Exit to Serve that has recently been updated.
All sessions will be video recorded.
Register for the Book Signing
October Update
September Update
Ronald Gray
Oct 9, 2008
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from Morelia, Mexico. Pastors Fernando Rodriquez and Eric Rodriquez are pastors of Filadelphia Church. I have been going to Morelia now for about 5 years. God has joined our hearts together. I shared with the men on Thursday night. At the end about 35 men rushed to the front of the room to receive prayer. Friday night and Saturday night I taught on “Four Characteristics of a Healthy Church”. Sunday I preached and Sunday night many were prayed for to receive miracles and healing. It was a powerful time in the Lord. They have already invited me back for next year. I believe we have some great things in store for Mexico in the coming years.
One of the things I shared was the importance of Doctrine. What we feel can change from day to day, but what we believe is what guides us. There are many things happening today in the world. The economy seems to be shaking. People are worried about the future, but what we believe about God and what His Word declares to us is what sustains us. We are not moved by what we see, but the power of His Word helps us to go forward into our purpose. I encourage you today to pick up your Bible and immerse yourself in the scriptures. Let it be life to you. Trust what it says. The Bible has stood the test of time. People have…
September Update 2008
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from Tampa, FL. Pastor Mike Tedder at Bethel Church invited me to speak to his men on Friday and Saturday. What a great group of guys. God ministered to us as we worshiped and prayed for one another. I so enjoy the opportunities God has given me to minister to men. I then spoke to the church on Sunday morning. Many people responded to the message and wanted prayer to obtain victory in their lives. Thank God for His anointing that breaks the bondage from people’s lives and sets them free.
On Sunday, September 7, I spoke locally at Eastern Shore Christian Center. We prayed for many people and the presence of the Lord was in the house. There are so many people today who find themselves in difficult situations and need to seek God fervently for His power to help them overcome.
I am still so excited about the release of my newly rewritten book, Enter to Worship – Exit to Serve. It is being printed right now. We plan to have the Book Release Event, November 7-8 here in Daphne, AL. Pastor Gary Browning is hosting this event. There should be a form on my web site by the end of this week for you register if you would like to come. You will be able to order the new book on my site as well as soon as we get them from the printer.
Please pray for the upcoming ministry in Morelia, Mexico with Pastor…
August Update 2008
Dear Friends,
What a summer! The team from Christ the King Church in St. Louis, MO did a great job in reaching out in Las Brisas, Costa Rica. We touched many children’s lives through drama and song. We fed about 100 kids one day with hot dogs and chips. The team took food to five families that needed some help. We also shared in several schools. Thanks to those who went and gave of their time, money and talents.
I have several things to share in this letter. We had several responses to our being on television with Mike Floyd. I continue to believe God is opening up doors for us to share with business people concerning their operating in Kingdom ideals.
I am still looking for several people to go with us to Poland next May and teach business people on Kingdom principles and then share our faith. Let me know if you would like to go.
I am planning to take a team from Grace Temple to Kenya, Africa Nov. 11-22 to help construct a mission team house for our school in Kitale. Grace Temple has given $5000 toward this project and we need $5000 more. Please consider supporting this endeavor financially. It is good soil.
I plan to speak at the Nakuru satellite school for their graduation while I am there. We have graduated hundreds of pastors helping them to understand the Word of God and be able to teach what they have learned. If you want to sow a…
March Update 2008
Ronald Gray
March 19, 2008
Dear Friends,
I just returned from Costa Rica. I believe this was trip number 71. Seventy one times to this Central American Country. We have built numerous church buildings and this time two homes for pastors. Grace Temple in Hattiesburg, Mississippi partnered with us and brought a team to help two rural pastors have a home. These pastors and families presently live in very difficult situations with dirt floors and no privacy. Grace Temple gave the money to buy the blocks, cement, steel, sand and rock to make this happen. They also provided the manpower. What a week, sweating and working everyday, but God helped us to get the walls raised! They still need money for the roofs. Thank God for Pastor Dwayne Higgason and Grace Temple who have a heart to touch the world.
There are several needs taking place right now. The Covenant Church we work with in Costa Rica has a mission on the Indian Reservation near Panama. They need $5000 to build them an open air meeting place. We have $1000 donated already. Would you help with this project? Any gift would help.
We need $50,000 to help with the construction of the medical clinic in Lodja, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This is for the cement, doors, windows and finishing work. The rood is up and we have some men planning on going early 2009 to lay the bricks. Please pray about this need.
We need $41,000 to help finish the training center in Kitale, Kenya….
May Update 2008
Ronald Gray
May 20, 2008
Dear Friends,
I have just returned from Poland. It was my fifth time in that beautiful country. God really helped us in having the best trip we have taken. The team there put together a great schedule. My team consisted of Angela Hough, Jim and Joyce Waskow. They did a great job in teaching. We flew into Krakow and then traveled to Gliwice. We met with a group of about 65 business people in the morning and then had another session in the evening with a different group of about 50. The next day we went to Strzelce Opolskie. The church there sponsored a meeting on Saturday night and Sunday.
We changed our routine for the next two days as we went to Poznan and shared in a school. We met with different classes in three sessions each for the two days. We shared about the United States and differences in culture. They asked a lot of questions and practiced their English. We did not even try to practice Polish. You already know my English is a struggle, so I don’t even try to do anything but learn how to say hello and thank you. The teachers were very happy with us and we hope to do something that might help them and some of you can be involved. Some of the students would like pen pals. These children are between the ages of 6 and 12 years old. They want to practice their English and learn our culture….
Contact Ronald Gray
P.O. Box 1873
Daphne, Alabama 36526
251-621-0983
I-877-Ron Gray (766-4729)