Shining a Light on Human Trafficking: A Conversation with Janet Marie Napper

Light in the Darkness: The Church's Role in Fighting Human Trafficking

As we enter Human Trafficking Awareness Month, I felt compelled to use my platform to shed light on this critical issue. Today, I'm excited to share my recent conversation with Janet Marie Napper, founder of Overcoming Abuse God's Way, a ministry dedicated to combating human trafficking through biblical education and support. This interview not only opened my eyes to the severity of the problem but also reinforced my belief in the power of faith to bring about real change.

The Shocking Reality of Human Trafficking

During our chat, Janet shared some truly eye-opening information about the current state of human trafficking in the United States. As a man of faith and a believer in the power of Jesus Christ, I was deeply troubled by what I learned.

Did you know that the most vulnerable age for sex trafficking victims is between 11 and 13 years old? Even more disturbing, Janet revealed that children as young as five and six are being exploited right here in our own country. It's a stark reminder that evil exists in this world, but also that we, as followers of Christ, have a responsibility to fight against it.

Janet shared a statistic that truly shook me: sex trafficking has now become the number one illegal business in the United States, surpassing even drugs and guns. To put this into perspective, she explained, "You know how easy you can go out and find drugs? You know how easy you can go out and find guns? It is that easy to go out and find a child for sex." This reality is heartbreaking and demands our immediate attention and action.

The Spiritual Battle Against Trafficking

As Janet and I discussed the issue, it became clear that this isn't just a social or criminal problem – it's a spiritual battle. The Bible tells us in Ephesians 6:12, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This verse perfectly encapsulates the fight against human trafficking.

Janet's ministry, Overcoming Abuse God's Way, takes a unique approach to combating this evil. Instead of focusing solely on rescue efforts, they emphasize prevention and healing through biblical education. This resonated deeply with me, as I believe that true transformation comes through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

The Power of Biblical Education in Healing

One of the most powerful aspects of Janet's work is her focus on helping victims understand their true identity in Christ. As she explained, many trafficking survivors struggle with feelings of shame, anger, and fear. By teaching them who they are in God's eyes, Janet's ministry helps these individuals find hope and healing.

This approach aligns perfectly with Scripture. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we're reminded that "if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This truth is at the heart of Janet's work, offering a path to redemption and restoration for those who have suffered unimaginable trauma.

Janet shared that many of the women in her support groups have revealed their past experiences with sex trafficking once they felt comfortable. These young women, now in their early twenties, carry the scars of their exploitation. However, through biblical education and support, they're beginning to heal and reclaim their lives.

The Importance of Prevention

While rescue efforts are crucial, Janet emphasized the importance of prevention. She explained that 70-80% of sex trafficking victims are runaways, often fleeing abusive situations at home. By reaching out to at-risk youth and providing them with biblical education and support, Janet's ministry aims to prevent these vulnerable individuals from falling prey to traffickers in the first place.

This preventative approach reminds me of Proverbs 22:6, which says, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." By instilling godly values and self-worth in young people, we can help protect them from the lies and manipulation of those who would exploit them.

Breaking the Cycle of Abuse

Janet's work doesn't just focus on sex trafficking; it addresses all forms of abuse. She explained that many trafficking victims have a history of abuse, which makes them more vulnerable to exploitation. By helping individuals overcome the effects of abuse – including anger, unforgiveness, insecurity, and fear – Janet's ministry equips them to break free from destructive patterns and build healthier relationships.

This holistic approach to healing reminds me of Isaiah 61:1-3, which speaks of bringing good news to the poor, binding up the brokenhearted, and proclaiming freedom for the captives. It's a powerful reminder of our calling as Christians to minister to those who are hurting and oppressed.

The Role of the Church in Combating Trafficking

As we discussed the widespread nature of human trafficking, I couldn't help but wonder about the role of the Church in addressing this issue. Janet emphasized that the Church has a crucial part to play in both prevention and healing.

She pointed out that many trafficking victims feel shame and isolation, believing that no one could understand or accept them after what they've been through. The Church, as a community of believers, has the opportunity to demonstrate God's unconditional love and acceptance to these individuals.

This reminded me of James 1:27, which states, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." By reaching out to trafficking survivors and at-risk youth, the Church can fulfill this biblical mandate and be a powerful force for change in our communities.

How We Can Make a Difference

As I reflected on my conversation with Janet, I felt a renewed sense of purpose in using my platform to raise awareness about this issue. Here are some ways we can all get involved in the fight against human trafficking:

1. Pray: Never underestimate the power of prayer. Ask God to protect vulnerable individuals, bring justice to perpetrators, and provide healing for survivors. Pray for ministries like Overcoming Abuse God's Way, that they would have the resources and wisdom to effectively combat trafficking.

2. Educate Yourself: Learn the signs of human trafficking and how to report suspicious activity in your community. The Department of Homeland Security's Blue Campaign (www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign) offers excellent resources for recognizing and reporting trafficking.

3. Support Ministries: Consider supporting organizations like Overcoming Abuse God's Way through donations or volunteer work. These ministries often operate on limited budgets and rely on the generosity of supporters to continue their vital work.

4. Spread Awareness: Share information about human trafficking with your friends, family, and church community. Host a screening of a documentary on trafficking or invite a speaker from a local anti-trafficking organization to your church or community group.

5. Advocate for Change: Contact your local and national representatives to support legislation that combats human trafficking and provides resources for survivors.

6. Foster a Culture of Respect: Teach the young people in your life about healthy relationships, consent, and the inherent value of every human being as created in God's image.

7. Support Survivor-Led Initiatives: Look for organizations and businesses that empower trafficking survivors through employment and leadership opportunities.

8. Be a Compassionate Listener: If someone discloses a history of abuse or trafficking to you, respond with empathy and without judgment. Help connect them with professional resources and support.

9. Seek God's Guidance: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how you can personally make a difference in this fight. Be open to His leading, even if it takes you out of your comfort zone.

As followers of Christ, we're called to be a light in the darkness. Human trafficking is one of the darkest evils of our time, but with God's help, we can make a difference. I encourage you to visit Janet's website at overcomingabusegodsway.com to learn more about her ministry and how you can get involved.

Let's commit to being more than just hearers of the Word, but doers as well (James 1:22). Together, we can shine the light of Jesus into the lives of those affected by human trafficking and bring hope to the hopeless.

In closing, I want to thank Janet Marie Napper for her tireless work in this field and for sharing her insights with us. Her dedication to serving others through Christ's love is truly inspiring. Our conversation has reinforced my belief that when we combine faith with action, we can make a real impact in the lives of those who are suffering.

As we move forward in this fight against human trafficking, let's remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 25:40: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." By reaching out to those affected by trafficking, we're not only serving them but also serving our Lord.

Remember, if you or someone you know has been affected by abuse or human trafficking, help is available. Reach out to Overcoming Abuse God's Way at 901-605-8087 or visit their website for support and resources.

Let's continue to pray, act, and trust in God's power to bring healing and transformation to our world. As we do so, we can take comfort in the promise of Psalm 34:18, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Our efforts, combined with God's love and power, can bring about real change in the lives of trafficking survivors and those at risk.

Personal Reflection

As I reflect on my conversation with Janet, I'm reminded of the importance of using our God-given platforms and talents to address critical issues like human trafficking. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the problem, but I'm encouraged by the words of Mother Teresa: "We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop."

Each of us has a unique role to play in this fight. For me, it's using my voice and platform to raise awareness and encourage action. For Janet, it's providing biblical education and support to survivors. For you, it might be volunteering, donating, or simply being more aware and vigilant in your community.

I'm also struck by the power of divine appointments. Janet and I met about a year ago, and that connection has led to numerous other opportunities to serve and make a difference. It's a beautiful reminder of how God orchestrates relationships and opportunities when we're open to His leading.

Moving Forward in Faith

As we conclude, I want to encourage you to take some time to pray and reflect on how God might be calling you to engage in the fight against human trafficking. Whether it's through supporting ministries like Overcoming Abuse God's Way, volunteering with local organizations, or simply being more aware and vigilant in your daily life, every action counts.

Remember, our ultimate hope in this fight comes from Christ. As we read in John 1:5, "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." No matter how dark the situation may seem, we can trust that God's light is more powerful and that He is working to bring justice and healing.

Let's commit to being that light in our communities, shining the love and truth of Jesus into the darkest corners of our world. Together, with God's help, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by human trafficking.

Thank you for taking the time to read and engage with this important topic. I encourage you to share this information with others and to continue learning about how you can make a difference. Remember, awareness is the first step towards change.

Until next time, keep shining your light and walking in faith.

Conrad

The Prophetic Noise: Awakening the Church to Speak Truth in Love

From Dry Bones to Living Army: God's Vision for His Church

Hey there, it's Conrad from ConradRocks.Net. As the author of "Open Your Eyes: My Supernatural Journey," I've been on a mission to ignite the fires of revival in the hearts of believers. Today, I want to share with you an incredible revelation that God has been unfolding over the past year. It's a message that brings together Ephesians 4 and Ezekiel 37 in a powerful way, showing us how to speak the truth in love and awaken the Church.

The Unfolding Message

God has a fascinating way of revealing His truths. As Proverbs 25:2 says, "It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter." Over the past year, I've watched as God has sewn together a message through many different people and experiences. It's like a divine puzzle, with each piece falling into place at just the right time.

This process reminds me of how prophecy works in the New Testament. We all prophesy in part, with different individuals receiving different aspects of a revelation. It's a beautiful picture of the Body of Christ working together to understand God's will.

The Waves of Revelation

I've had dreams for over a decade about prophets, pastors, and teachers catching waves of revelation from God. In these visions, I see some looking towards the land, missing the waves, while others are positioned to catch and ride these divine insights. It's a powerful metaphor for how we need to be attentive and ready to receive what God is saying.

Recently, I had a vision of God pouring liquid gold into a mold, representing pure doctrine being poured into the Church, particularly into the roles of teachers and pastors. This image speaks to the refining process God is initiating in His Church, purifying our understanding and teaching of His Word.

The Importance of Biblical Literacy

As we dive deeper into this revelation, I can't stress enough the importance of reading and understanding the Bible. The more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more we can discern truth from falsehood. Hosea 4:6 warns us, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." We must be diligent in studying God's Word to avoid falling into deception.

Speaking the Truth in Love

As I've been praying about how to speak the truth in love, God has been revealing a powerful connection between Ephesians 4 and Ezekiel 37. It's a message about unity, growth, and the power of God's word in the Church.

Ephesians 4:11-16 talks about the roles of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These offices are given "for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." The goal is unity in faith and knowledge of Christ, so we're not "tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine."

This passage reminds us that our roles in the Church aren't about personal glory or status. They're about equipping believers, building up the Body of Christ, and protecting against false teachings. It's a call to humility and service, always pointing others to Jesus rather than ourselves.

Connecting to Ezekiel 37

In Ezekiel 37, we see the famous vision of the valley of dry bones. God tells Ezekiel to prophesy to these bones, and as he does, there's a noise, a shaking, and the bones come together. This parallels what's happening in the Church today.

The vision in Ezekiel is a powerful picture of resurrection and restoration. Just as God breathed life into those dry bones, He's breathing new life into His Church. But notice the order: first, there's a prophetic word, then a noise, then a shaking, and finally, the coming together.

The Prophetic Noise and Shaking

I believe God is calling for a prophetic noise to be made in the Church. This noise precedes a shaking, which then leads to the scattered parts of the Body coming together. It's a powerful picture of revival and restoration.

A friend shared a teaching with me that every time God shows up in Scripture, there's extreme noise, extreme shaking, and then a message. This pattern is consistent throughout the Bible, and I believe we're seeing it unfold in our time.

Think about it: when God descended on Mount Sinai, there was thunder, lightning, and a loud trumpet blast. When the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, there was a sound like a rushing wind. God often announces His presence and His message with supernatural phenomena that grab our attention.

The Challenge Before Us

We're at a critical moment in the Church. God is challenging us to step up, to be serious about our faith, and to come together as one Body. This message has been building since at least October 1996, when Tommy Tenney experienced a powerful move of God at Christian Tabernacle.

During that service, as 2 Chronicles 7:14 was read, God's presence manifested in a dramatic way, splitting the pulpit in two. It was a clear sign that God is serious about His people humbling themselves, praying, seeking His face, and turning from wickedness.

This event was a wake-up call to the American Church. It's a reminder that revival isn't just about emotional experiences or large gatherings. It's about genuine repentance, humility, and a return to God's ways.

The Power of Demonstration

As we consider how to speak the truth in love, we must remember that our message isn't just about words. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power."

In our intellectual age, it's easy to get caught up in debates and arguments. But the early Church grew through the demonstration of God's power – healings, deliverances, and transformed lives. We need to return to this kind of faith that doesn't just talk about God's power but demonstrates it.

Overcoming Sin and Ignorance

As we grow in our understanding and walk with God, we'll inevitably encounter areas of sin or ignorance in our lives and in the Church. It's important to approach these situations with humility and grace.

Remember Paul's words in 1 Timothy 1:13, "Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief." God is patient with us as we learn and grow. We should extend that same patience to others, always speaking the truth in love.

The 21-Day Fast: A Time of Preparation

Currently, many believers are engaged in a 21-day fast. This is a critical time of preparation, aligning our hearts with God's purposes. Fasting helps us to quiet the noise of the world and tune into God's voice more clearly.

During this fast, I encourage you to pray specifically about how God wants to use you in this coming move of His Spirit. Ask Him to show you any areas of your life that need alignment with His Word. Seek His face for revelation about His plans for the Church and your role in them.

As we navigate this season of fasting and seeking God, let's be attentive to what He is saying. It's time for the dry bones to come together, for the Church to awaken and speak the truth in love. We can no longer afford to be complacent or lukewarm.

I challenge you to dig deeper in your relationship with God. Seek His face, listen for His voice, and be ready to move when He calls. Let's catch the waves of revelation He's sending our way and ride them into the revival He's preparing.

Here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Commit to regular, in-depth Bible study. Don't just read, but meditate on God's Word.

2. Cultivate a lifestyle of prayer and fasting. Make seeking God's face a priority.

3. Practice speaking the truth in love in your daily interactions. Start with small acts of kindness and bold, loving words.

4. Look for opportunities to demonstrate God's power through prayer for healing, deliverance, or other needs.

5. Connect with other believers who are hungry for revival. Iron sharpens iron, and we need each other in this journey.

Remember, we're called to dig deeper and go higher in our walk with God. Let's do it together! If this message resonates with you, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment below, share this post with others who need to hear it, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more insights like these.

May God bless you as you seek Him with all your heart. Let's be the generation that sees a mighty move of God in

The Refiner's Fire and the Mold of the Church: A Prophetic Vision for Revival

Awakening the Church: Embracing the Fire of God 

Hey everyone, it's Conrad from ConradRocks.Net, and I'm fired up to share a powerful vision God gave me.  It’s all about the spiritual state of the church today, the prophetic call on our lives, and the supernatural work God is doing to refine and purify His people. This message is especially for those who feel a stirring in their spirit, a yearning for something more.  If you’re tired of lukewarm Christianity and ready to embrace the fire of God, then keep reading.

A Prophetic Encounter at Church and Craft

This story starts back on April 11th, 2015, a date I now recognize as incredibly significant. My wife, Susan, and I were acting on a prophetic dream she had about the intersection of Church and Craft streets here in Olive Branch, Mississippi. We felt led to pray over this specific location, believing it held strategic spiritual significance for the region.  As we drove, I suddenly received a powerful open vision. I saw a hand trying to fit into a glove, but two fingers – the ring finger and the pinky – were crippled and couldn't fit. Then, God miraculously transformed the glove to accommodate the crippled fingers.

At the time, I understood this vision related to the five-fold ministry (Ephesians 4:11 – another confirmation of the date's significance!). The apostles, prophets, and evangelists (represented by the thumb, index, and middle fingers) were functioning, but the pastors and teachers (the ring and pinky fingers) were somehow crippled, hindering the full expression of the Church.  God, however, was working to bring all five into alignment.

The Vision Unfolds: Molten Gold and the Refiner's Fire

Fast forward to a recent gathering with other prophetic believers. As we prayed for the Holy Spirit to fill the church, I received another vision. This time, I saw a flat, clay mold with grooves for fingers, reminiscent of a potter's mold.  I could only clearly see the grooves for the pinky and the ring finger – again, representing the pastors and teachers.  The mold was empty.

Then, I saw a refiner’s pot, overflowing with molten gold, pouring into the mold, slowly filling the grooves for the pastor and teacher.  This image immediately resonated with the concept of the refiner’s fire, purifying and refining God’s people.  When I shared this with Susan, she confirmed my sense that this vision spoke to the lukewarm state of the Laodicean Church (Revelation 3:14-19).

The Laodicean Church: Rich and Increased with Goods, Yet Wretched and Miserable

The Laodicean church, described in Revelation, thought they were rich and needed nothing.  But Jesus saw them as wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. This blindness, I believe, reflects a disconnect within the five-fold ministry, particularly with pastors and teachers, leading to flawed doctrine and a lack of spiritual depth. They were blind to their true spiritual condition.

This vision of the molten gold pouring into the mold represents God's work to refine and purify His church. He is filling the emptiness with His pure gold, tried in the fire.  This is not a comfortable process, but it is necessary for us to become the radiant bride of Christ.

Biblical References and Teachings: The Refiner’s Fire

The concept of the refiner's fire is woven throughout scripture. Malachi 3:2-3 describes God as a refiner’s fire, purifying the sons of Levi like gold and silver.  1 Peter 1:7 speaks of the trial of our faith being more precious than gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire.  This fire tests and refines our faith, making it stronger and more resilient.  And 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 warns that while Jesus is the foundation, anything built on that foundation that isn't gold, silver, or precious stones will be burned away by fire.

These passages remind us that true spiritual growth often involves trials and challenges.  The fire of God, though uncomfortable, is essential for purifying us and revealing what truly matters.

Personal Reflections and Experiences: A Call to Deeper Intimacy

This vision has deeply impacted me. It’s a reminder that we, as the Church, need to be more than just warm bodies filling pews on Sundays.  We need to be on fire for Jesus, passionately pursuing Him and His kingdom.  We need to be willing to go through the refiner’s fire, allowing God to purify and refine us.

I've witnessed firsthand the power of corporate prophetic ministry. When believers gather together, seeking God’s presence, the prophetic anointing flows freely, bringing revelation and insight. I encourage you to find your tribe, connect with other prophetic voices, and experience the transformative power of corporate prayer and worship.

Embrace the Fire

The church in America is at a crossroads. We are facing significant challenges, and it’s time for us to wake up from our spiritual slumber.  We can no longer afford to be lukewarm.  We must embrace the refiner’s fire and allow God to mold us into His image.

This is a call to action. Are you willing to step out of your comfort zone and into the fire? Are you ready to be refined and purified?  Are you ready to see the Church rise up in power and authority, demonstrating the Kingdom of God on earth?

I challenge you to:

Dig deeper into God's Word:  Meditate on the scriptures about the refiner's fire and allow them to transform your heart.

Connect with other believers: Find a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about Jesus and His kingdom.

Seek the prophetic:  Be open to the voice of the Holy Spirit and the prophetic gifts.

Pray for revival:  Join me in praying for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Church in America.

Let’s get off our couches and be the Church God has called us to be.  Let’s be a light in the darkness, a beacon of hope in a world that desperately needs Jesus.

Join the conversation!  Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.  And be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on social media for more prophetic insights and encouragement.  Let’s dig deeper and go higher together!  You can find me at ConradRocks.Net. God bless you!