Does this quote seem familiar to those of you who are acquainted with Living Free?

"A man who lies to himself, and believes his own lies, becomes unable to recognize truth, either in himself or in anyone else, and he ends up losing respect for himself and for others. When he has no respect for anyone, he can no longer love, and in him, he yields to his impulses, indulges in the lowest form of pleasure, and behaves in the end like an animal in satisfying his vices. And it all comes from lying--to others and to yourself." From The Brothers Karamazov by Russian author Fyodor Dostoyevsky.

Even though this to-the-point description of the root and result of the addiction process was written 130 years ago, it accurately describes what happens to people today when they lie to themselves and excuse their sinful choices. The delusion that results can happen to anyone.

So, what can a person do to stay free or break free from this self-destructive death spiral? Here are three things to consider:

• Realize that there is such a thing as right and wrong, good and bad, holy and profane and that the standard for knowing the difference lies outside our own personal feelings and beliefs. We cannot just "let our conscience be our guide". What is sinful is defined by the standard set forth in the Word of God and not by our own personal opinions or feelings. Judge everything by the objective standard of God's law. Excuse nothing, all the while knowing that God is faithful to forgive when we agree with his standard and ask forgiveness.
• Seek for and listen to the counsel of others. We have a responsibility to tell the truth to one another in love, and part of that truth is expressing our concerns when we see people excusing themselves for doing what is contrary to scripture. And when someone brings such correction, we are to listen carefully and not become defensive.
• Walk in the Spirit moment by moment. The Holy Spirit is our faithful counselor and guide, but it is up to us to pay attention to his gentle voice as we go through our daily routines. He is faithful to fulfill his work in us.

At this conference you can:

• Hear how God has called and used Warden Burl Cain as a leader for prison reform by incorporating biblical principles
• Meet new friends from around the world who are passionate about outreach ministry
• Enjoy Autumn in the beautiful foothills of the Smoky Mountains - warm days and cool nights
• Relax with recreational activities: fishing, canoeing, pontoon boat rides, bike rides, hikes, horseback rides, hayrides
• Participate in interactive workshops tailored to ministry interests
• Worship with world-class musician Huntley Brown
• Know that there are no hidden expenses-registration fee includes meals, lodging, conference fees, and a few recreation events.
• Become inspired, refreshed, and enlightened for your ministry in uplifting evening services
• Chill during free times in God's beautiful creation and refuel with wholesome meals

Follow these links for more information, a conference schedule, or to register online.

Fourteen participants attended a Living Free Faculty Training Workshop, which was held on July 19th and 20th, 2010, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Participation in the workshop is part of the process for one to become a certified trainer of Living Free.

It was exciting to have people present who are involved in a variety of ministries here in the United States and around the world. One woman attended the Living Free Faculty Training Workshop so that she could use Living Free in her own church and in a prison ministry she is involved in.

A Living Free Ministry Report for 2009 and the First Half of 2010

El Pacto, in Bogotá, Colombia, has been using Living Free Ministry resources to help everyone they come in contact with to grow spiritually. Below is a report from Beatriz Arguello, who heads the ministry of Living Free in conjunction with El Pacto.

• The introductory videos are shown on Sundays, and the groups meet during the week.
• From February to June 2009, there were 24 people in Insight, 26 people in Free to Grow, and 15 people in Restoring Families.
• Then from July to October there were 30 people in Insight, 10 people in Free to Grow, and 15 people in Concerned Persons.
• There was also a group of 12 people, who were potential facilitators, that participated in the Knowing God curriculum. This was an opportunity for them to be trained but also edified.