When it came time to title this book, I knew it was no coincidence that this is my 12th published work. I count it very special. Not only is this book my 12th, but there have been other "12s" in my life. I live at our house location with the street numbers "12120". My favorite NASCAR driver was "24" - of course, made up of the numbers 2 x 12. I turned "12 x 5" just over a year and a half ago. Reaching the BIG 60 means I am still going in the Lord's grace and provision! My 12th trip to Israel will occur in May of 2016. That is very special to me, as the primary work of our ministry is to bless our Jewish friends in their Promised Land, with actual friendship and financial support. Both in word and in deed. Knowing there are 12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles selected by Yeshua (Jesus), 12 elders now seated around the throne, 12 months in each year...well, you get the point. Being this is indeed my 12th book, which is another one consisting of my last 25 Now Think On This messages, I count that as being another reason for the title 12. On another note, someone once mentioned that my writings would have been simply called "journaling" years ago, and in their mind probably should be for private use only. They wondered why I would continue to publish my Now Think On This messages into book form which I share with others. At first I was taken aback with the comment, considering it as myself being questioned of the real intended purpose I had with my messages. But a few hours later on that same day, when I sat down and started to read Doug Addison's book on his 2016 prophetic words (which he said he received during September of 2015, the time of Rosh Hashanah, considered by many the Jewish New Year), an encouraging word stood out and uplifted my spirit. That word (among many!) was, "God spoke to me to pull all my words together into book form. This allows people to remember and pray about them." (Page 3, 2016 Prophetic Forecast, InLight Connection, 2015) And so I say that is one main reason why I do too. In fact, the Lord also had spoken to me that same inspired word, back in November of 2010, after I returned from Israel and sought Him as to my question, "Not what?" in regards to the next step in our new ministry Love For His People, Inc., having just formed it in April of that year. When He responded by telling me to "Write love letters" I did so, which then became my blog messages. As do so many teachers of the Word, their messages eventually are the basis of their books which follow. A great example that I adhered to with several of my previous books. Thus, not only to share what I believe are inspirations from the Lord Jesus with you, but also to leave them as a legacy for my children and grandchildren. They will know even more what Dad/Grandpa stood for, and will be encouraged, along with others like you, to do so also. Be blessed in your pursuit of the Lord Yeshua, the Coming Messiah, as you seek Him in all you do. Shalom and ahava (peace and love in Hebrew), Steve Martin Charlotte, NC
About the Author: Steve Martin served with three Christian ministries from 1987-2010, all having a national and international outreach focus. During that time he made 14 ministry trips to Israel, China, India, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Kingdom. On his overseas journeys Steve enjoyed sharing written journal entries with family and friends back home, through Internet media. His light-hearted stories gave an up close and personal touch for those reading along. Many could imagine being there themselves. His extensive collection of photos taken during these trips, of both local scenery and common people on the streets, has touched thousands through their varied images. In 2010, Steve and Laurie began Love For His People, Inc, a 501(c)3 non-profit humanitarian aid ministry. This work touches the natural and spiritual lives of those around them with needed encouragement and strength. His regular messages Now Think On This are posted on the ministries Love For His People and Now Think of This blogs. They are also on Facebook and Twitter, featuring words of spiritual enrichment, along with selected photos. Since 1994, Steve and his good wife Laurie have lived in the Charlotte, NC area, after having homes in Illinois, Michigan and Florida. Now married for more than 38 years, they enjoy their four adult children and spouses (Josh and Chelsie, Ben, Hannah and Jonathan, Christen and Andrew), along with our seven additional grandchildren - Daniel, Logan, Dylan Joy, Jensen, Payton, Jack and Levi Zachary. While continuing to serve organizations with his accounting skills, he enjoys writing, photography and growing the ministry of Love For His People, Inc.