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    Under the Influence
    Under the Influence
    Under the Influence
    Ebook141 pages2 hours

    Under the Influence

    By Carolyn Tennyson-Arkels

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    About this ebook

    In 1944, I was born to Kelse and Margaret Tennyson of Lonoke, Arkansas. In 1956, I was born again into the family of God, having been saved and baptized at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church at Carlisle, Arkansas.

    After graduation from Lonoke High School, I married. Five years later, my son, Donald Ray Howard Jr., was born.

    The Bible instructs us to help everyone, especially those in need. As a member of New Testament Baptist Church of Lonoke, Arkansas, I, along with the Ladies Auxiliary, began the Compassionate Care Ministry, which ministers to those in any capacity, whatever the need.

    I have written religious articles for the Arkansas-Democrat Gazette that has led people to contact me about salvation, which makes it worthwhile.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherWestBow Press
    Release dateApr 14, 2014
    ISBN9781490830469
    Under the Influence
    Author

    Carolyn Tennyson-Arkels

    In 1944, I was born to Kelse and Margaret Tennyson of Lonoke, Arkansas. In 1956, I was born again into the family of God, having been saved and baptized at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church at Carlisle, Arkansas. After graduation from Lonoke High School, I married. Five years later, my son, Donald Ray Howard Jr., was born. The Bible instructs us to help everyone, especially those in need. As a member of New Testament Baptist Church of Lonoke, Arkansas, I, along with the Ladies Auxiliary, began the Compassionate Care Ministry, which ministers to those in any capacity, whatever the need. I have written religious articles for the Arkansas-Democrat Gazette that has led people to contact me about salvation, which makes it worthwhile.

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      Book preview

      Under the Influence - Carolyn Tennyson-Arkels

      Copyright © 2014 Carolyn Arkels.

      All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

      Scripture taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

      WestBow Press books may be ordered through booksellers or by contacting:

      WestBow Press

      A Division of Thomas Nelson & Zondervan

      1663 Liberty Drive

      Bloomington, IN 47403

      www.westbowpress.com

      1 (866) 928-1240

      Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

      Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

      Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

      ISBN: 978-1-4908-3047-6 (hc)

      ISBN: 978-1-4908-3046-9 (e)

      Library of Congress Control Number: 2014906922

      WestBow Press rev. date: 4/8/2014

      CONTENTS

      Acknowledgments

      About The Author

      Preface

      Chapter 1: Historical Power

      Chapter 2: Religious Foundation

      Chapter 3: Listen To The Voice

      Chapter 4: My God Is Real

      Chapter 5: Under Satanic Influence

      Chapter 6: The First Family

      Chapter 7: Secret Sins

      Chapter 8: Down In The Valley

      Chapter 9: It’s Nothing But Right

      Chapter 10: Faith, Hope, And Love

      Chapter 11: Don’t Preach To Me

      Chapter 12: Death Of A Saint

      Chapter 13: The Judgment Seat Of Christ

      Chapter 14: The Torments

      Chapter 15: Peace At Last

      Chapter 16: The Invitation

      Epilogue

      ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

      Writing this book was a dream of mine for many years. It became possible by the grace of God, with the encouragement of my son Donald and the invaluable assistance of my husband, Gary.

      I would also like to extend a special thank-you to Brother Tim Ward, my pastor at New Testament Baptist Church in Lonoke, Arkansas, and to my church family for their encouragement and prayers during my illness. Had it not been for my family and church family, this book may not have been possible. Thank you, also, Janice, Nettie, Vivien, and Joyce, my sisters in Christ—your thoughtfulness and kindness will always be remembered.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR

      In 1944, I was born to Kelse and Margaret Tennyson of Lonoke, Arkansas. But in 1956, I was born again—into the family of God, having been saved and baptized at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church at Carlisle, Arkansas. After graduating from Lonoke High School, I married, and five years later, my son, Donald Ray Howard Jr., was born.

      The Bible instructs us to help everyone, especially those in need. As a member of New Testament Baptist Church in Lonoke, I, along with the Ladies Auxiliary, began the Compassionate Care Ministry, which ministers to those in need in any capacity, whatever the need.

      I have written religious articles for the Arkansas Democrat–Gazette that has led to people contacting me about salvation—which makes everything worth it.

      PREFACE

      In 1776, the United States of America was born. Our Founding Fathers were men of great courage. Were it not for these men, the United States as we know it today may not exist. Over the course of these centuries, changes have been made, many for the better. But several changes have proven detrimental, all of which resulting from our not adhering to the Christian faith. Christianity is our heritage, but it is at its lowest point; many are living a lifestyle that does not reflect God. One must look deep inside the heart and search for God. If He can be found, there is hope. Hopefully we all will seek God in our quest for eternal life. Let us allow God to guide and direct us in all areas of our lives.

      Chapter 1

      HISTORICAL POWER

      President George Washington once said, Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.

      How important is religion in government? Our Founding Fathers were deeply religious men, and this nation was founded upon their religious beliefs. But, with each passing decade, the freedom of religion is being suppressed, especially in this twenty-first century. The name of God has become almost obsolete: His name cannot be spoken at most public events, especially in prayer. Yet other religions have the liberty to cease their workday to pray to their gods. They are allowed to observe their holy days. That is a grave injustice to the American people who cannot use the name of Jesus publicly. This nation was founded upon the principles of the almighty God, yet Americans are not to acknowledge Him in any way.

      When one says that the United States of America is no longer a Christian nation, many Americans become outraged. Christianity is our heritage. What would our Founding Fathers say, knowing how they fought and died for our freedom—the freedom to worship without fear of repercussion? Many people may not live the Christian life as outlined in the Bible, but that does not mean this is not a Christian nation. Rebellion has begun as a result of what is happening in the Unites States today. It was founded upon Christian beliefs and those beliefs hold true. Our Founding Fathers were men of God who recognized the importance of God in their lives, as did our presidents.

      For the two hundred years since the birth of our nation, the bonds of government and Christianity have not been broken. Religious groups represent our Congress, but most are of the Christian faith. In this twenty-first century, it appears that bond may have begun to break.

      Though some Americans are Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and members of other religions, the majority of people in the United States are Christian. This nation was founded on the religion of Jesus Christ.

      Our Founding Fathers recognized that practicing the religion based upon the teachings of Jesus Christ was very important. Thomas Jefferson recognized the need for this young nation to be under the influence of the almighty God or else suffer the consequences.

      Our presidents were loved and respected by all who knew them. Through their powerful influence, they made significant changes throughout the entire world. Their legacy depicts them not only as influential men, but also as godly men; God was acknowledged in many of their speeches.

      One’s influence can be very powerful, whether for good or for evil. Being courageous is almost a thing of the past. People are not taking a stand for what they believe is right, and they are becoming more tolerant of the wickedness that plagues the world today; things that were once considered immoral are now acceptable. Many are being influenced by worldly standards rather than biblical ones.

      When one is intoxicated by the use of a chemical substance, especially alcohol or drugs, he or she is said to be under the influence. These drugs control their subjects. But it is not the only way to have power over someone. One can be under the influence of other people. Influence is that invisible force in one’s personality that causes others to act. This invisible force can be very powerful, and it can affect everyone. People have the power to sway or persuade others to their way of thinking by example or by a very forceful personality.

      This kind of influence could be more damaging than alcohol or drugs because it controls the person. Being under the influence of another person can have devastating effects, especially if the influence is of an evil nature. Everyone is susceptible. Families have been totally destroyed because of influential people who led them in the wrong direction. Enticing one to do wrong knowingly, by whatever means, will eventually bring downfall. Even ministers are not immune. If their hearts are not focused on God, they could easily lead their family and the church astray by their worldly influence or advice.

      Their continued influence may have led to his disobedience to God. Although he knew not where he was going, Abraham never questioned God. By faith, he simply obeyed. To overcome the influence of those who wish to lead you astray, you must have the courage to stand against their evil influence. Resisting worldly influences takes strength of character.

      Just as Washington’s and Jefferson’s lives were influenced by the guidance of God, our other Founding Fathers’ lives were governed by His laws. Learning the history of our nation will show that our Founding Fathers were men of faith under God’s influence.

      Over the course of these two hundred years, many significant changes have been made. Some have been for good, but some have been detrimental to our nation. If our nation is no longer Christian, it is because our leaders have been under the influence of ungodly people who have removed themselves further from the teachings of God.

      There are those who may entice one to do wrong. For instance, if the mind is centered only on the things of the world, one could meet a very disastrous end.

      Chapter 2

      RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION

      To withstand the test of time, families and nations must have a solid foundation. Without one, they will fall. One nation, the United States of America, began with such a foundation—one built on the precepts of God.

      Our Founding Fathers were God-fearing men who sought a peaceful land, believed in the Bible, and never doubted the existence of God, who governed their lives. President Reagan said, I believe that faith and religion play a critical role in political life of our nation—and always has—and that the church—by that I mean all churches, all denominations—has had a strong influence on the state. And this has worked to our benefit as a nation.

      According to the Mayflower Compact, the Pilgrims came to this country to implement their new life for the Glory of God and for the advancement of the Christian Faith. Under British authority, the liberties of the American colonists were being abused and heavy taxation was imposed on them. After many years of this abuse, they began to rebel. The First Continental Congress met for the purpose of defending Americans’ rights. To ensure that they made the right decision, this Congress prayed for guidance, with men kneeling to pray. They understood the importance of seeking a higher power to succeed in their quest for freedom. A movement for independence from the British began intensifying. Representatives from the colonies met in 1775 in a church in Richmond, Virginia, to discuss the issue, with George Washington attending. He and the others present were thrilled after hearing Patrick Henry’s speech, in which he cried so emphatically, I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death! These men did not want a war, but often, there is a time when war is absolutely necessary for freedom to be attained.

      On April 19, 1775, the shot heard around the world was fired in Concord, Massachusetts, against British troops. Thus

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