April 2003 Newsletter

Dear Prayer-Partners, 
“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort or the Scriptures might have hope.”  (Romans 15:4).  This was my verse for the day in my daily devotions.  What a wonderful thing it is that we can gain hope by spending time in the Word of God.  We don’t meet many believers now days that share with others how the Lord is giving them hope through the Word of God.  I encourage each of you to be an example in that practice.  The Word will bless you and you will bless others as you share with them. 

CHURCH MEETINGS 

I was able to give mission reports in three churches in the month of March.  I will be ministering in California from April 14 - 24.  I have a letter for pastors and a very nice brochure that has just been printed that explains the ministry I do.  If you know of any church or individual that might like to receive this information, please let me know. bb

MISSION TRIP 

Things are really coming together for the mission trip to Haiti for May 6 - 16.  I just talked with folks in Haiti last evening and the report is that I can order the building materials for the church roof and they are supposed to arrive before the group gets there.  In Haiti, that would be a miracle.  Please pray much for those materials to arrive.  This church has been waiting three years for a roof for their building.

We are still lacking $2,200 for the expense of that project.  I am trusting the Lord but am also prepared to borrow some money if need be in order to get this project done.  I believe the Lord will supply in time, but we have the group ready to go and we believe it is of the Lord that we proceed. 

OTHER NEEDS FOR HAITI 

I want to make another appeal for musical instruments for Haiti.  We could use many piano keyboards (they must be able to run on batteries).  We also could use several guitars.  We are praying for an electric base guitar and amplifier for a good friend who does special music for many churches and special meetings.  If you know of anyone who has these things and would like to donate them or donate financially to help purchase some of these things, please let me know. 

MISSION SUPPORT & FINANCES 

I just did my taxes this last month and my income for 2002 was $12,861.  You can understand from that figure why there is the need to continue to trust the Lord to send in the finances for special projects and expenses.  The biggest expense I have for the Haiti ministry right now are the funds for travel for the mission trip and the rent for the house in Haiti which is $2,300 for the year.  In Haiti you have to pay the year in advance.  I know I am still in transition as I wait on the Lord for His direction in ministry.  I intend to just keep on ministering for the Lord and just trust Him for the provision and direction. 

“AT HOME...” 

John has had a lot of upheaval in his life these past two years.  With our move to Arkansas and then his move to the Chicago area to finish school, we do not really have a good situation to have a graduation reception for him like his brothers had.  John does plan to move home here for the summer and then return to the Chicago area to attend Dayspring Bible College where his brother Luke is attending.  If you would like to honor John for his graduation you can contact him at our home address.

In Christ our Savior,

 bbbbb

Dave Stockeland 

For tax-deductible gifts please make check to:
Beth’El Baptist Church, Box 437, Green Forest, AR  72638

Note updated home address and cell number:
204 Arkansas Place
Green Forest, AR  72638
870-438-4599
209-747-4616 (Cell)