See What the Lord Has Done!
The vision for God’s Precious Jewels was dropped into my heart in 2000. The vision has grown and expanded, especially over the past several years.
While we cannot change history, we can do everything within our power to love precious Native Americans into the Kingdom of God. Native American Pastors are very dedicated and devoted to the work of the Kingdom. Over the past eleven years I’ve been greatly encouraged to meet some of the finest ministers in the United States. They are in ministry to win souls to Christ, and I’ve never met a hireling among them.
A high majority of those who minister to Native Americans (some who are not Native Americans) face struggles beyond the norm. Many of them work long hours to support their families and still maintain a schedule “packed full” of huge ministry needs and activities. They also face vicious spiritual warfare. Some who are ministering are between 65 and 75! Others have physical disabilities that would put most of us in bed. Yet, they are called and they do not stumble over challenges, but leap over them by the power of the Holy Spirit. I’m impressed!
Something else that impresses me is the Native American people. They are intelligent and gifted by God. Yet, federal money, grants, casino monies — none of these elements help them become children of God —- washed in the blood of Jesus. There is a wide gulf between each tribe, tribal lands, and reservation life. Physically some do prosper, while others live in Hogans, without water or electricity. Even when money is available, something else looms overhead —- substance abuse of all kinds, domestic violence, child abuse, incest, murders, unemployment, and an inability to “climb out of the pit.” Those who are born into poverty end up feeling trapped by the circumstances of life. Very few make it out of a poverty laden reservation.
People of God —- where is our compassion for those in our own land? Native Americans fight in our wars, die for our country, right along side of us. Why is it so difficult to lend a hand when they are right here in the United States? You may answer, “There are already many excellent ministries doing the work of evangelism among the Native Americans.” That is true, but thus far we are only ministering to a small percentage of Native Americans.
Again, I mention —- we cannot change our history but we can reach out to all Native Americans in our own country. We can come along side of Native American Pastors and others who are ministering, and strengthen their ministries. We can become prayer partners with them, making phone calls, and sending emails. We can provide excellent free Bibles and all kinds of other gospel literature that is so desperately needed by many. Frequently Pastors need help with VBS, and outreach trips are a blessing to them. There is no end to the creative types of ministry available, all of which help churches thrive.
Just getting to know them, asking what they need, and assisting them, helps build their ministry. Soon they will recognize that we have no hidden agenda, but that we are available to bless them. This can make the difference between a church remaining open or a Pastor leaving ministry, and ultimately souls being saved!
What has the Lord done? Just recently God has moved upon the hearts of two Assembly of God Pastor’s to possibly begin their own ministry to Native Americans. The missions director in our district arranged for the vision to be placed before all of the churches in the Northern CA/NV district. The message was in a monthly magazine, and I’m believing God that more and more churches will show an interest, and will call upon God’s Precious Jewels to send them free start-up packets, and that they will contact me with questions, etc.
My former Pastor, from the eighties who is now retired, doesn’t want to begin his own Native American ministry, but he has offered to help me in assisting churches and Pastors. Boise Rescue Mission is still interested in serving Native Americans and they have already reached out to a tribe in Idaho. Friends of mine have enlarged their ministry to Native Americans. I’ve contacted the missions director (leaving a message) of the Assemblies of God for the United States , as I want to share the vision with him also.
The vision is for God to reach out through His people across the entire United States, to Native Americans. Many more souls will be saved as a result of God’s magnificent love and power. Native Americans will take their proper place within our nation, furthering our commitment to bless those who have been so wounded. Isn’t that God’s message? Isn’t that His way? We can do it —- Yes we can — We can be that arm of righteousness extended to our hurting brethren. They are a proud people, and we want them to be proud in the Lord and His goodness.
Won’t you help? Let me know when you want to invite your church into the joy of ministering to Native American children and their families. Individuals may also request start-up packets, and I’ll be happy to meet with you personally if possible.
God’s Precious Jewels, Inc. is a Christian non-profit 501 c3 ministry. We are also a recognized ministry with the Assemblies of God, NCN District. However, we have the liberty to minister alongside of all Bible believing churches, and have ministered in five different states since 2000.
We put the Word of God into their hands and God puts the Word into their hearts!
In His Service,
Patricia Martin
