The 700 Club: October 9, 2009

UnderWing Transcripts PO Box 16282 Clearwater, Florida 33766 540 455-2333 / UnderWing@underwingtranscripts.com ________________________________________ The 700 Club Telethon Broadcast Friday, October 9, 2009 GORDON ROBERTSON: Well, welcome to The 700 Club. A surprise announcement from the Nobel committee. President Obama was named the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. The award was given to encourage the President’s initiatives, which include cutting nuclear weapons, easing tensions with the Muslim world and emphasizing diplomacy. It was a decision that shocked even those in the audience. Thorbjorn Jagland: The Nobel Peace Prize for 2009 is to be awarded to President Barack Obama for his extraordinary efforts. GORDON ROBERTSON: Obama was nominated less than two weeks into his presidency to meet the February deadline for the prize. The Nobel committee did recognize that so far Mr. Obama’s measures have not born any fruit. And we certainly agree with that. But at the same time, we congratulate him. And we congratulate him for the promise of bringing peace and encourage that perhaps we could get rid of nuclear weapons, and we could stop Iran from getting a nuclear bomb. We could see peace actually come to the Middle East. We could have better relations with Arabs in the Middle East. We could have all of these things. But again, I tell you, Terry, you shake your head on this one. How did he get nominated just two weeks into his presidency and why is this so focused on the promise of the presidency rather than the results? TERRY MEEUWSEN: Yes. “Could have” doesn’t seem like it should be the criteria for winning the prize. “Have done” would seem like that ought to be what it’s premised on. GORDON ROBERTSON: Well, if I were advising him, I’d say, “You might want to turn it down and say, ‘Reconsider once these things come to be.’” Wendy Griffith has more from the CBN Newsroom. Wendy. HATE WENDY GRIFFITH: Gordon, the House of Representatives has passed a controversial hate crimes bill giving new protections to homosexuals and other groups. But Christians warn the bill could have a chilling effect on the freedom of religion. The bill did not pass on a straight up or down vote. Instead, it was attached to a defense spending measure. Jennifer Wishon has that story from Washington. JENNIFER WISHON: Although the legislation is designed to help US troops: Rep. Mike Pence: I sadly urge my colleagues to vote against the Defense Authorization Bill. JENNIFER WISHON: That’s because supporters added the hate crimes bill to the defense package. Hate crimes legislation adds homosexuals and transgendered Americans to the list of already protected classes of race, religion and national origin. Supporters say the bill is necessary. Sen. Carl Levin: Between 1998 and 2007, more than 77,000 hate crime incidents were reported, and the trend is up for hate crimes based on sexual orientation. JENNIFER WISHON: Texas Congressman Louie Gohmert says Christians denounce violence against anyone, but argues there are already laws on the books to deal with such crimes that are, in many cases, tougher. And he says Congress should not attach language to a defense bill that weakens constitutional rights of free speech and freedom of religion, including the freedom to preach on sexual morality. Rep. Louie Gohmert: We're going to take away the freedoms of people of faith to stand up and read Romans I in public. Because if you read Romans I in public and you get to verse 25, and some nut hears that and goes out and commits an act of violence, you can be arrested because you induced him. JENNIFER WISHON: Some late changes were made to the bill to strengthen protections for religious speech, but not everyone believes they're enough. The full Senate could vote on it as soon as next week. President Obama has said he will sign it into law. Jennifer Wishon, CBN News, Washington. PHILIPPINE DEATHS WENDY GRIFFITH: Flashfloods and mudslides in the northern Philippines have killed well over 160 people, and that number is expected to rise. That brings the overall death toll to more than 450 people. The Philippines is experiencing the worst flooding it’s seen in 40 years caused by back to back typhoons. Nonstop rain is making rescue efforts difficult. ISRAELI TEAM TO PHILIPPINES WENDY GRIFFITH: An Israeli medical team flew to Manila today to help the Filipino people devastated by the typhoons. Operation Blessing Israel played a key role in connecting Israeli medical experts with the Operation Blessing team on the ground in the Philippines. Shachar Zahavi: The connection between Operation Blessing for us to get to the Philippines was a really crucial one. Because it allowed us, it opened for us doors that before were actually closed. Charmaine Hedding: We've been working with our Philippine Operation Blessing with Dr. Kim in order to receive them and to immediately plug the team in the relief efforts now going on in the Philippines and also going on in the north in the Philippines. REMOTE WENDY GRIFFITH: Indonesian search teams are still looking for survivors from last week’s massive earthquake. Operation Blessing was able to help victims of the quake in a remote area near the center of that quake, but only after one TV cameraman made sure the relief team had a way to reach them. George Thomas has this amazing story. GEORGE THOMAS: This is where Raymond Sitorus is most comfortable: behind a camera documenting Operation Blessing's disaster relief work in the earthquake zone. But this week, Raymond found himself in the uncomfortable position of trying to convince an Indonesian police chief to loan him this helicopter. Raymond Sitorus: I was filming at an Operation Blessing medical outreach when an earthquake survivor told me there was a village close to the epicenter that had not yet been reached by aid workers. GEORGE THOMAS: The location was remote and all the roads leading to the village had been destroyed in the quake. Raymond Sitorus: I went to the local police chief and asked if we could use his helicopter to go to this village and check for survivors. He looked at me as if I was crazy and said it was not possible. GEORGE THOMAS: But Raymond would not take no for an answer. Finally, the police chief agreed, but reluctantly. So on Thursday morning, Raymond, several Operation Blessing doctors, and a couple of Indonesian police officers set out for the village of Ambacang Gadang. What they saw as they approached the village was shocking: several massive landslides had engulfed the village. Raymond Sitorus: I didn't think anyone could have survived this kind of devastation. GEORGE THOMAS: Dozens of people had survived, and Raymond began to document what he saw and heard. Woman: We've had no water, no rice, nothing to eat. We've been living on coconut juice for the last five days. GEORGE THOMAS: Everywhere Raymond pointed the camera, there was devastation: homes completely flattened, roads split in half. Seventeen-year-old Zaino Abiu was caught in one of the landslides. Zaino Abiu: I was hit by a huge wall of mud. I was tumbling down this mountain completely buried. I could not breath. I thought I was going to die. GEORGE THOMAS: Raymond met another survivor, 49-year-old Emira. She, too, had an amazing story. Emira: This is what’s left of my home. In seconds, it was all gone, flattened by the earthquake. GEORGE THOMAS: The police officer asked the villagers what they needed. Woman: We need blankets, we need rice, tents, food, water, clothes. GEORGE THOMAS: That's when the Indonesian police chief, who had been so reluctant to help, turned to Raymond and the Operation Blessing team and smiled. Minutes later the helicopter was making the return flight to base. An hour later it was back with boxes of relief supplies from Operation Blessing. Emira: Today is the first time that I will have a meal because of you. GEORGE THOMAS: The Operation Blessing doctors immediately set up camp and began to examine each villager. For the man behind the camera documenting the moment, there was a sense of personal satisfaction. But he refused to take credit. Raymond Sitorus: The real heroes are the men and women who volunteer for Operation Blessing and those who make it possible to help my people who are suffering. GEORGE THOMAS: Operation Blessing had favor, not just with villagers . . . . Woman: Thank you, Operation Blessing. Thank you. GEORGE THOMAS: . . . . and also with the Indonesian police force. Raymond Sitorus: The police chief told me that whenever we need to ferry supplies we can count on them, and they will let us use the helicopter for free. GEORGE THOMAS: George Thomas, CBN News, Padang, Indonesia. WENDY GRIFFITH: Gordon, it’s amazing how remote some of these villages are, but thanks to God, Operation Blessing was able to find these people. GORDON ROBERTSON: That’s right. And thanks to you. If you’re a member of The 700 Club, you’re part of that. You heard that thank you going out from that cameraman, that it’s because people like you care enough to give. A portion of every gift to The 700 Club goes into the work of Operation Blessing to bring hope to people around the world. And it’s because of faithful partners like you that all of this is possible. Operation Blessing Indonesia has been in existence for a decade now. And you see the results of what happens when you have dedicated people that say we won’t let any obstacle get in our way. We want to get relief to people in need. If we can’t get there within 24 hours, we’ve failed in our mission. That’s how they think. And you’re part of that, because you’re giving. If you’re not a member, now is the time to join. If you want to be a part of everything we’re doing, if you want to be a part of medical teams flying from Israel to the Philippines in order to help, if you want to be part of the Philippine flood relief, if you want to be part of the earthquake relief in Indonesia, join The 700 Club. We’re a lot more than just a TV show. We’re reaching out with hands of love and compassion around the world. And our motto is when disaster strikes, we want to strike back with love and compassion to bring help to people in need. If you want to be a part of it, call us right now: 1-800-759-0700. Well, after 30 years of marriage, Kathy Seig’s husband walked out on her. Kathy’s heart was broken and so was her bank account until she made an investment that changed her life. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * KATHERINE SEIG GORMAN WOODFIN: Ask Minnesotan Kathy Seig what she wishes for, and she’ll tell you: it’s finding security, making her life count for something, and eventually . . . . Kathy Seig: I want my log cabin in the tall pines on a lake in northern Minnesota. GORMAN WOODFIN: As a part-time nurse and mother of three, Kathy Seig has a genuine concern about her security, a concern that escalated when her marriage of over 30 years crumbled. Kathy Seig: I was filled with grief, and despair and lots of fear that I wouldn’t be able to survive financially or emotionally. GORMAN WOODFIN: While married, Kathy’s paycheck went towards groceries and incidentals. Now responsible for all her bills and overcome with a broken heart, Kathy fell into a deep depression. Kathy Seig: I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep. I lost a lot of weight. My friends were worried about me, and I was worried about me, too. GORMAN WOODFIN: So day after day, Kathy cried out to God. Kathy Seig: I would lay in my recliner when I was down, and I’d say, “God, don’t forget me. Don’t leave me here. Use me. Make my life count for something.” GORMAN WOODFIN: God answered Kathy’s prayer in a surprising way. Kathy Seig: I turned the TV on, and there was The 700 Club, and I watched it, and I realized that I was feeling comfort and hope. That tightness in my stomach was gone. GORMAN WOODFIN: Soon Kathy became a 700 Club member. Kathy Seig: I started realizing I didn’t miss the 20 dollars, and my check was—I was paying all the expenses for myself, and my check was lasting. GORMAN WOODFIN: Still a part-time nurse, Kathy climbed up the giving ladder completely by faith. Kathy Seig: The more I gave, the more I got! Each time I doubled my pledge, my checkbook grew more. And so now at the end of the year, I would have several thousand in my checking account. And it’s just incredible. I don’t know how He’s done it, but He has done it. My money goes farther. It just goes farther. GORMAN WOODFIN: Then one day, while Kathy was watching a telethon, she felt that God asked her to do the impossible: become a CBN Founder. Kathy Seig: I argued. I turned to God and I said, or turned to where the force was, and said, “God, you can’t mean that. That’s 417 dollars. How can I do that? You know I want to quit my job. You know I want my cabin in the woods. How can I give 417 dollars a month?” Then He said—and I heard the words—“Do it Kathy. Trust Me, because I want to really bless you.” GORMAN WOODFIN: Shaking, Kathy picked up the phone and increased her pledge. Before she knew it, one of Kathy’s life wishes came true: Kathy was on her way to India to dedicate a CBN well. Kathy Seig: It was so wonderful. When I was there, not only did I do the well, but they invited me to go out on their Operation Blessing excursions, and they have so many. And what a blessing to see all they do over there! And the people know it’s Jesus. It’s through Jesus that they’re being helped. GORMAN WOODFIN: In India, Kathy realized her life really did count for something. And that was just the beginning of Kathy’s blessing for obeying God. Kathy Seig: For the first time in my life, I can do whatever I want, buy whatever I want without worrying about it. And that has never happened to me before. You can’t out-give God! That’s the law of reciprocity. I have given, so I have. I didn’t give before. I wasn’t a faithful tither before, and I didn’t have anything. And nothing has changed except my giving. That is all that’s changed, and now I have. GORMAN WOODFIN: Today Kathy has the security she’s always longed for. Kathy Seig: I feel more peace. When my security depended on me, I worried. Now my security depends on Him, and I don’t worry anymore. GORMAN WOODFIN: And what about that cabin in the woods? Well, Kathy’s still hopeful. Kathy Seig: What I have until then is knowing that God has His eye on me, and that’s more important than anything I could wish for. But I do know that He’s not through with me yet, and He has a lot of good things planned for me. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GORDON TEACHES GORDON ROBERTSON: He has a lot of good things planned for you. He says to you, “I know the plans that I have for you, to give you a hope and a future. He has created good works for us to walk into. Here is what Psalm 37 says, “Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord and He will give you your heart’s desires.” If you want your heart’s desire, then trust Him. Take delight in Him. Take a delight in His way and His methods, and all these other things will be added unto you. Well, balancing work and family is a challenge for many single mothers, and Mary Gilbert was no exception. She struggled to raise a whole family on a salary that could barely support one person. Then one day, Mary took a step that quadrupled her income. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * MARY GILBERT DORY NISSEN: Mary Gilbert’s Oakland, New Jersey, home is a busy place. Mary runs a successful day care that started quite small. Mary Gilbert: I walked out of this front door in this home, and the girl across the street that I knew from when I grew up, she yelled one day. She said, “Mary, do you know anybody who takes care of kids in their home?” She was looking for somebody to watch her kids. I’m like, “I will.” DORY NISSEN: Initially, it was extra income; however, when Mary went through a difficult divorce, she found herself raising two boys alone, and her small day care was now her only source of income. Mary Gilbert: It was a difficult time. It was the hardest time I ever went through in my life. On Sunday nights after church, we’d stop at the local custard stand and get ice cream, and there were times when I didn’t even have—it was 1.25 for ice cream, and I didn’t have enough money to get myself an ice cream cone, so I got the boys their money, but I thank the Lord that I was able to get them their treat, and then just, “You’re going to have to see me through until next week, Lord. I don’t need anything right now, and my boys are happy.” DORY NISSEN: Even during this struggle, Mary remained faithful in the biblical principle of giving ten percent of her money to God. Mary Gilbert: But I also told the Lord, I said, “I’m okay. I have food. My bills are paid. I’m going to tithe, but I have nothing else until next Friday.” DORY NISSEN: Month after month, Mary was able to get by, because more and more parents asked her to watch their kids. Mary wanted to give more. She loved watching The 700 Club, so she decided to become a CBN Partner. Mary Gilbert: I first joined the 1000 Club, and I had 84 dollars a month to be able to give. But then to move up again to the next level was a step of faith, and I didn’t really have it to give it away. DORY NISSEN: Mary’s day care continued to grow. Her income was now four times more than when she first opened, so she increased her giving and became a CBN Founder. Mary Gilbert: The Holy Spirit just said, “You need to move up again.” And this time I didn’t hesitate, because I was so blessed the last time. Experience is a good thing. DORY NISSEN: Mary’s income increased so much, she joined The Chairman’s Circle. Mary Gilbert: You can live better on God’s 90 percent, than you can on your 100 percent. You give, and He gives in return. It’s simple. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GORDON TEACHES GORDON ROBERTSON: You can live better on God’s 90 percent than your 100 percent. It’s one of the great keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, that nine is greater than ten. Ninety percent is greater than 100 percent, because with that 90 percent, you now have God on your side. You now have His favor. You now have Him watching over you. You now have Him saying, I will rebuke the devourer for your sake. You now have Him saying, “I will open windows in Heaven and pour out blessing on that 90 percent.” That is the key. And if you want to have the key, you’ve got to start giving. Here’s what Jesus said. It’s in Matthew 6, “So don’t worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. Your Heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.” And one of the ways we can make the Kingdom of God our primary concern is very tangibly in our gifts and offerings. So we’re asking you right now, would you join The 700 Club? Will you take a step? Will you take a great step of faith to say, “Okay, I’ll start giving. I’ll start trusting God.” In these difficult economic times, I know it’s hard. And we all want to pull back. And we all say, “Can we afford things anymore?” Well, take the adventure in giving and see what God will do for you. He’s not going to bless excess, but He is going to bless that 90 percent, because His Word is true. How much is it to join The 700 Club? Well, it’s just 20 dollars a month. It’s just 65 cents a day. Some of you say, “I can give more than that. I can give at 700 Club Gold.” That’s 40 dollars a month. There is 1000 Club. That’s 1,000 dollars a year. That equals 84 dollars a month. The 2500 Club, 2,500 a year. Founder is 5,000 dollars a year. And if you want to make a significant gift, 10,000 or more a year is Chairman’s Circle. And if I can get a drum roll to encourage your giving, we have something special from partners from South Carolina. These are existing 700 Club members who say, “We want to challenge others to give.” And they’ll match you dollar for dollar for every gift you make for the next 20 minutes, 75,000 dollars. Let’s pray. “Lord God, we ask for blessing for the partners in South Carolina who made it possible to issue this challenge. And Lord, we just know that your word over them is true, that you will bless them. You will rebuke the devourer for their sake. You will bring them into your blessings. And for those watching right now, we just ask that you would encourage them, speak to them, be with them, for we ask it in Jesus’ name. Amen.” You heard it, a 75,000 dollar challenge. We’ve got 19 minutes and 56 seconds to go. We need to hear from you, so give us a call: 1-800-759-0700. Or you can log on to CBN.com. When you give through the Internet, you automatically sign up for Pledge Express, electronic monthly giving. There are no stamps, checks, nothing to mail. We save so much we’re able to send as our gift back to you “Power for Life” monthly teaching CDs. We save so much on the processing of gifts that we’re able to send that back to you. So if you want that, sign up for Pledge Express. Let’s go over to Wendy at the phones. Wendy. WENDY GRIFFITH: Thanks, Gordon. Well, in these tough challenging economic times, we all need some good financial advice, don’t we? Well, that’s why Pat has put together this dynamic new teaching called Right on the Money, financial advice for tough times. In here, you’ll learn how to get out of debt and stay out of debt, make a budget, which is key to getting everything in order, invest wisely, build your wealth, and so much more. Here’s Pat to tell you something. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * PAT ENDORSEMENT PAT ROBERTSON: The world’s financial landscape is rapidly changing. Each of us needs to understand the new economy and how we can survive and thrive amid such sweeping change. That’s why I’ve compiled a special CBN partner audio edition of my latest book, Right on the Money. ANNOUNCER: In this special CBN partner audio edition by Pat Robertson, you’ll discover the biblically based principles that can help you get out of debt, create a road map to wealth, protect your investments and much more. Get Right on the Money, our gift to you when you join The 700 Club. PAT ROBERTSON: Above all, I want you to remember that God is greater than any economic downturn. He knows who you are and every circumstance in your life. He has provided opportunities all around you. Get the wisdom you need today and build a secure financial future. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * WENDY GRIFFITH: And again, the best way to get back on the road to financial recovery is to give. Jesus said, “Give, and it shall be given to you.” And the Bible says you can’t out give God, so we want you to be blessed, and we want you to have Right on the Money. This is yours when you call right now and join The 700 Club today: 1-800-759-0700. Or you can log on to CBN.com. Our counselors are standing by right now to take your call, so please hurry and go to your phones right now. Gordon. GORDON ROBERTSON: Well, today Kris Gardner is a busy hairstylist with her own salon, but not long ago she had nothing but a failing business and a growing debt load. Then Kris made a decision that turned her finances around the very next day. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * KRIS GARDNER Kris Gardner: If we give, we receive. I like the fact that He tells us if you give, you’ll be paid back in full measure, pressed down, shaken up, spilling over. I love that. I love that, and He proves Himself to me all the time. KRISTI WATTS: Kris Gardner of Boardman, Ohio is a woman with a mission. She’s driven to give to God’s work and to CBN. Wearing several hats, Kris is a mother, a business owner, a hair stylist and has her own hair care website. But not long ago, her businesses were far from successful. Kris Gardner: My business was failing. I had been suffering for two-and-a-half years. And I was taking the blunt end of all the bills, and I just couldn’t do it anymore. KRISTI WATTS: In her business, Kris rented out space to other hairdressers. Shortly after buying the business, she lost all her renters. To try to make ends meet, Kris started her own website, revupthevolume.com. She sells hair care products. Kris Gardner: I own a website that has not had any sales, none. I worked on it for months. I got it up and running. KRISTI WATTS: For four months, there was not one order on her site. But Kris made an unusual decision while watching The 700 Club. She decided to give out of her need, and the results were amazing. Kris Gardner: And this is March, and I had not had one sale. And March 22nd, I gave 20 dollars. And March 23rd, I received my first order. And it was plenty enough to cover the 20 dollars. Three days later, I received another order. And I decided, after a couple months, I was going to up my giving, and I was going to give 40 dollars. And the Lord continued to bless me enough to give whatever I was giving. KRISTI WATTS: And now, not only has her website seen a turnaround, but her beauty salon has several new hair stylists. Kris Gardner: Just recently in my business, I went from one person, and me having to take care of everything, all of the bills, to five people. And I have tripled my income, tripled in less than a year. KRISTI WATTS: Kris loves to raise her giving level during a 700 Club challenge. Kris Gardner: Other members call in, and they’ll give like a hundred-thousand-dollar challenge. And what they’re asking for is, if enough people call in and give a hundred-thousand, they’ll match it, so it’s 200,000. And that’s why I like to give during the challenges, because it’s not as if I’m giving 84; it’s 168, and I love that. KRISTI WATTS: And now, as a 2500 Club member, Kris truly believes in the power of giving. Kris Gardner: And He tells you to give, and we will receive. And He’ll make it so that the windows of Heaven open up, and we can’t contain His blessings. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GORDON TEACHES GORDON ROBERTSON: Here’s what Proverbs says from chapter three, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” We want to somehow think we’ve got things under control, and we want to lean on our own understanding, particularly when times get tight and finances get tight. We want to lean on our own understanding, and say, “Okay, it’s time to pull back.” Well, that’s not God’s way. God says, “Lean on Me. Let Me be your provider. Let Me watch over you. Let Me take care of you. Let Me be your all and all. Let Me be God. You be My people. Let Me be God.” And when we do that, then suddenly we walk into blessings that we can’t even understand where they come from. If you want to get on the plus side of giving, give us a call: 1-800-759-0700. And just say, “Yes, I want to join The 700 Club. I want to be a part of everything you’re doing around the world. I want to be part of disaster teams in the Philippines and Indonesia. I want to be part of helping orphans around the world. I want to be part of preaching the Gospel around the world. You can be a part of all of it by joining The 700 Club. How much is it? Twenty dollars a month, 65 cents a day. So call right now: 1-800-759-0700. We’ve got 12 minutes and 55 seconds left in a 75,000 dollar challenge. What that means is existing CBN donors like giving so much they want to challenge others to give, and they will match you dollar for dollar for the next 12 minutes and 44 seconds. If you give 20 dollars, they’ll add another 20 to it. So now is the time to call us. Call right now: 1-800-759-0700. Well, Andy Manganiello worked 16 hours a day, and all he had to show for it was half a million dollars in debt. Andy thought suicide was the only way out, until his wife made a life-changing investment. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ANDY AND MARI JAYNE MANGANIELLO Andy Manganiello: I was borrowing from wherever I could at the time. I was taking loans out on my house. I was basically borrowing from Peter to pay Paul. And I was just working 20 hours a day and spinning my wheels. DORY NISSEN: Andy Manganiello was a half a million dollars in debt, and he could no longer handle the pressure of a failing business. His credit line was maxed. Creditors pounded on his door, and he was about to foreclose on his house. Suicide seemed the only option. Andy Manganiello: I was empty. The tank was empty, and there was no future for me. I had the little boy I’d always wanted, and I had the wonderful wife I’d always wanted, but I was ruining their lives, as well. DORY NISSEN: His wife, Mari Jayne, began to realize just how serious the situation was, so she turned to the power of prayer and asked God to turn the situation around. Mari Jayne Manganiello: It just confirmed to me God’s desire to give us the desires of our heart and to want the best for us. DORY NISSEN: She also prayed for a financial breakthrough. She says she found the answer on The 700 Club, when Pat Robertson was teaching on tithing. She decided it was time to start giving, so she called and joined The 700 Club. Andy was dumbfounded. Andy Manganiello: When I found out that she was giving money to The 700 Club, I thought she had to be nuts. It’s my money. We need the money. Why are you giving this money away? DORY NISSEN: But Mari Jayne kept giving and prayed that God would change Andy’s heart. That prayer was answered one night when Mari Jayne called Andy at work. Andy Manganiello: One night she called, and she asked, “Hey, when are you coming home?” And I said, “How do I know what time I’m coming home? It’s only 8:00 at night.” I’d been there 15 hours already. And she said, “I just want to let you know your son said goodnight to your picture.” And that just killed me. It still kills me. So that’s when I knew it just wasn’t worth anything. I was losing the most precious things I had, because I was trying to make a business work. DORY NISSEN: Andy asked God to take over, and he says God told him to close his trucking business. He did. The next evening, he was offered a job by another trucking company. Andy drew a paycheck immediately, and this time he agreed to tithe; but the Manganiellos’ financial problems were far from over. Andy had to face his creditors in court and settle his 500,000 dollars in debt. Andy Manganiello: And I went to court and just felt that I didn’t need a lawyer. God was with me through all this. DORY NISSEN: Every creditor was willing to work with Andy, because had had not filed for bankruptcy. Large sums of money were waived and payment plans established on the rest. Andy Manganiello: We settled every one of them, one way or the other. Mari Jayne Manganiello: I was absolutely thrilled, because we had the opportunity to really rely on God, and follow Him, and just be completely dependent on Him. DORY NISSEN: These days, Andy’s priorities are in order, and he puts God and family first. He also has a new warehouse business that is very successful, even in tough economic times. He attributes that to God’s favor, because the Manganiellos are faithful in their giving. Andy Manganiello: In the Bible is the only place in your finances where He says to test Him. The only place, in Malachi, He says, “Test Me.” Give Him a try. Test Him. He’ll knock your socks off. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GORDON ROBERTSON: Test Him. He’ll knock your socks off. He will do that for you. What He did for Andy, He will do for you. He’s no respecter of persons. The eyes of the Lord go to and fro over the whole earth to show Himself strong to those whose hearts are loyal to Him. What’s one of the ways we show our hearts are loyal to Him? Through our tithes and offerings, through our gifts. Are we willing to obey when it even comes to money. Here it is from Psalm 128, “How joyful are those who fear the Lord, all who follow His ways. You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be. That is the Lord’s blessing for those who fear Him.” If you want to get on the plus side of blessing, you need to get on the plus side of giving. So call us right now: 1-800-759-0700. Or you can log on to CBN.com. When you give through the Internet, you automatically sign up for Pledge Express, electronic monthly giving. There are no checks, nothing to mail. We save so much on the processing we’re able to send as our gift back to you “Power for Life.” If you want it, sign up for Pledge Express. And we’re asking you right now. We’ve got seven minutes and 28 seconds. Join The 700 Club. We’re in the middle of a 75,000 dollar challenge. That means each gift you give gets matched up to 75,000 dollars. So if you join The 700 Club at 20 dollars a month, that now becomes 40 dollars a month. So now is the time to call us: 1-800-759-0700. Let’s go to Kristi at the phones. Kristi. KRISTI WATTS: Thanks, Gordon. Okay, so yesterday I’m sitting there watching the television, flipping through, when I see one of the news outlets. And they’re talking about financial strategies. And this panel is saying one thing. Then I flip the station and there is a whole other panel saying a completely different thing to financial strategies. And I started to think, there’s only one place where God gives us true financial strategies that are tested and true and it’s in the Word of God. And let me tell you something, it’s in the Word of God, those strategies that Pat has taken and put them in this, called Right on the Money, financial advice for tough times. If you want to go to a place that’s going to work, the Bible is it, and those strategies are in here. We want to tell you more about it, but I want you to take a look at this clip before I finish up. So take a look. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GPS SPOT ANNOUNCER: There you were, on your way to financial security . . . . GPS: Continue straight ahead to reach your financial goals. ANNOUNCER: . . . . when suddenly everything changed. Your road to financial freedom, gone. Traditional ways of investing no longer work. You need direction. GPS: Recalculating. Turn here. ANNOUNCER: Discover a biblically based way to navigate your financial future. Pat Robertson’s teaching, Right on the Money, shows you what works and what doesn’t. Establish a budget. Get out of debt. Build your savings. Learn how to invest. Get Pat Robertson’s Right on the Money when you join The 700 Club and get on the road to a more secure future. Available now. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * KRISTI WATTS: There you have it, Right on the Money. It’s chock full of biblical strategies that will change your life. And check this out, it’s your gift when you become a 700 Club partner, so we need you to do that right now. You can either log on or call 1-800-759-0700. We need you to do it now, because we’re in the middle of a challenge. We’ve got five minutes left on this 75,000 dollar challenge, which means that every dollar that you give is doubled. So please, call in right now. I promise you, God wants to answer your prayer, and this is the way that He can do it. Terry. TERRY MEEUWSEN: Well, in China, couples adopt children for many reasons. Some just want a child to carry on their family name. But the couple you’re about to meet adopted their baby boy for a very different reason. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * XIAOYU’S CLEFT LIP Mrs. Wu: My mom died when I was 12, and I know what it’s like to feel lost and insecure, so I told the Lord, whenever I see an abandoned child, I will give him a home. TERRY MEEUWSEN: It was a promise Mrs. Wu kept when she rescued a baby boy abandoned in front of a church that cold winter morning. Mr. and Mrs. Wu already had four children, three adopted and one of their own. But they welcomed Xiaoyu into their home, in spite of his cleft lip and palate. Mrs. Wu: I felt so sorry for little Xiaoyu. He was so tiny and weak. He choked when he tried to suck milk out of his bottle. For the first seven days, I thought he would die at any minute. TERRY MEEUWSEN: The Wus are very hard workers. Mr. Wu takes care of sheep and goats on what is called “the wasteland,” and Mrs. Wu raises bees. Mr. Wu: We had no money for clothes. Everything we had was a hand-me-down from our neighbors. Mrs. Wu: No matter how hard we worked, we still could not afford surgery for our son. TERRY MEEUWSEN: And the longer baby Xiaoyu’s face went untreated, the worse it seemed to get. The only place they knew to turn was CBN. CBN had provided cleft lip and palate surgery for one of their other adopted sons, Xiaoki, years before. And they wondered if CBN would be willing to help again. Mrs. Wu: I knew that CBN had the same heart for children that I do and that they loved them and have the ability to help them more than I ever could. TERRY MEEUWSEN: CBN came to little Xiaoyu’s rescue and provided the cleft lip and palate surgery he needed. His new mom and dad couldn’t be more thankful. Mr. Wu: This surgery has changed Xiaoyu’s life. He looks great. He’s healthy now, and he has a bright future. Mrs. Wu: I cannot tell you how happy I was when I heard Xiaoyu say, “Mama,” for the first time. I know this would have never been possible if he had not gotten surgery. TERRY MEEUWSEN: Mrs. Wu is glad she stayed true to her promise, and she’s glad CBN was there to help. Without CBN, she says her children would never have the beautiful faces or the bright future they have today. Mrs. Wu: I want to thank CBN for helping both of my sons. CBN came quickly to our rescue, like Heaven’s love sent from above. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * TERRY MEEUWSEN: I love what she says when she says, “I know that CBN has the same heart for these children that I do and that they have the ability to help.” We have the ability to help because people like you also have a heart for these children, a heart for people who are hurting, a heart for those who are encountering natural disasters. You make it all possible with your gifts. That’s why we’re asking you right now to go to your phone and call. Our number is toll free. It’s so easy: 1-800-759-0700. Will you go to your phone and join The 700 Club right now? Sixty-five cents a day, just 20 dollars a month. That’s what it costs to be a 700 Club member. And when you join The 700 Club, can we ask you to do it through something called Pledge Express? It’s electronic monthly giving. It means your bank does all the work. You have none of hassle. I love that part of it. But it also means that we save a lot of administrative costs. And we can put more of your gift directly in the lives of people like Xiaoyu, who now has a future and a hope because of what you’ve done for him. So please, call now. You can also log on to CBN.com and give that way. Gordon. GORDON ROBERTSON: All right, we’re in the middle of a 75,000 dollar challenge. And we need to stop the clock, because some partners from New Jersey and from the great state of New York are saying 75,000 is not enough. They want to add 125,000 to it and take it to 200,000 dollars and to the end of the hour. Let’s pray. “Lord, for the partners in New Jersey and New York who made it possible to increase this, we just ask for blessing for them. And for those who are watching, just speak to them. Encourage them, for we ask it in Jesus’ name. Amen.” A 200,000 dollar challenge. What a challenge means is existing partners like giving so much they want to challenge others to give. So they’re going to challenge you for the next 17 minutes up to 200,000 dollars. So if you want to get in on it, now is the time to join: 1-800-759-0700. Or you can log on to CBN.com. Well, Bruce was out of work, and his wife Bobbie had a job she didn’t like. Between them, they could barely pay their bills, so they put their heads together and found a way to quadruple their profits. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * BRUCE AND BOBBY MCELWAIN Bruce McElwain: We just didn’t make enough to make ends meet year-round. DORY NISSEN: Bruce McElwain couldn’t make a living as a subcontractor installing gas fireplaces. Bruce McElwain: It was feast or famine. It was very busy during the early fall, and then as soon as everybody got their units installed, it was famine time. It was very frustrating. DORY NISSEN: Bruce spent his days trying to drum up business, while his wife Bobbie worked long hours at a job she didn’t like. Then Bruce’s priorities dramatically changed after he discovered The 700 Club and Pat Robertson. Bruce McElwain: Pat was teaching on the principle of tithing. And up to that point, we had just given God tips like a dollar, maybe two. It really awakened me to a completely new principle. DORY NISSEN: Bruce told Bobbie what he learned about tithing. Bobbie McElwain: I didn’t feel it was right to give ten percent of that money I’d worked so hard for in a job that I really didn’t care about doing much. DORY NISSEN: Bobbie says God began changing her mind through Scripture on tithing and through a new church with the same message. Meanwhile, while Bruce was installing fireplaces, an idea started forming in his head about opening a new business. Bobbie McElwain: He would come home frequently and tell me that the customers would complain to him that there was no one that did it all, who would sell the product, install the product, run the gas line, and do the electrical. Bruce McElwain: So we decided to open a retail shop. It was a very big step. We prayed endlessly about it, because I wanted to be sure we were doing what God wanted us to do. DORY NISSEN: They both agreed to tithe faithfully to CBN and their church, and their new business called Hearth and Home immediately turned a profit. As their profits increased, so did their giving. They rapidly moved up the different levels of CBN until they joined the Chairman’s Circle, and their business continues to grow. Hearth and Home’s profits have quadrupled since they opened in 2001. Bobbie McElwain: I’ve seen our business go from here to here, and there is no other explanation for that, other than God. Bruce McElwain: You can’t out-give God. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GORDON ROBERTSON: You can’t out give God. He is able. He is able. And when you live according with His promises, if you conduct your affairs and your life in accordance with His promises, then the windows of Heaven will open over you, and He will pour out a blessing you cannot contain. If I can get a drum roll, we’ve got some great news from Vineland, New Jersey, a 700 Club member saying, “I’m going all the way to Founder,” 5,000 dollars. Let’s go to Wendy at the phones. Wendy. WENDY GRIFFITH: Okay, thanks, Gordon. Well, I’m sorry, you caught me off guard. Well, what I wanted to say is giving is really all about the heart. The Bible says where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. God doesn’t really need your money, but He is after your heart. And maybe He is challenging you today to take a step of faith and join The 700 Club. Take a step of faith with your finances. It’s just 65 cents a day, 20 dollars a month, and it will not only change the world, it will change you, too. And when you do join, we have a great gift for you. It’s called Right on the Money. This is Pat’s new teaching. Here’s a look. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * PAT ENDORSEMENT PAT ROBERTSON: The world’s financial landscape is rapidly changing. Each of us needs to understand the new economy and how we can survive and thrive amid such sweeping change. That’s why I’ve compiled a special CBN partner audio edition of my latest book, Right on the Money. ANNOUNCER: In this special CBN partner audio edition by Pat Robertson, you’ll discover the biblically based principles that can help you get out of debt, create a road map to wealth, protect your investments and much more. Get Right on the Money, our gift to you when you join The 700 Club. PAT ROBERTSON: Above all, I want you to remember that God is greater than any economic downturn. He knows who you are and every circumstance in your life. He has provided opportunities all around you. Get the wisdom you need today and build a secure financial future. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * WENDY GRIFFITH: God is bigger than anything. He can do anything. And Right on the Money, this is Godly wisdom for your financial success. Maybe all you need is wisdom. We want you to have this right now, Right on the Money, building a solid financial future. It’s yours when you call and join The 700 Club: 1-800-759-0700. Or you can log on to CBN.com. That’s another great way to give. Our counselors are standing by right now to take your call. And we are in the middle of a 200,000 dollar challenge. That means every dollar that you pledge right now will be matched dollar for dollar. So where are you going to get a deal like that? Now I’m going to throw it back over to Miss Terry Meeuwsen, who never catches me off guard. Terry. TERRY MEEUWSEN: I might try now. I’m not sure. Well, on a recent trip to Zambia, I met a boy named Christopher who was forced to work as a servant in his uncle’s home. Christopher had just one wish: he wanted to go to school. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * CHRISTOPHER FINDS A SPONSOR TERRY MEEUWSEN: It’s a cold morning here in Mancha, Zambia, but these children don’t mind. They have come to school today running, skipping and riding their bikes with enthusiasm, because in this place they will receive love, food and an opportunity to learn. But their stories outside this compound are very different. Christopher’s mother abandoned him when he was a baby. After his father died of AIDS, Christopher went to live with an uncle. Christopher: Then I started staying there and looking after the donkeys. TERRY MEEUWSEN: His uncle has children of his own, so Christopher is the family servant. Christopher: I give food to the pigs, and after that just working the garden. We have also a garden. TERRY MEEUWSEN: This is the local government school. They have few supplies and don’t even have real desks. But Christopher always wanted to go there to get an education. Christopher: There they refused. I was too big. That’s why they brought me here. TERRY MEEUWSEN: When he was 12 years old, Christopher started first grade at this Christian school, built and supported by Orphan’s Promise. Christopher: They asked me, “Do you want to go to school?” And I was very excited. And I said, “Yes, I want to go to school.” TERRY MEEUWSEN: The school has plenty of supplies, as well as computers and new boarding rooms for orphans. Seeing the dorm rooms has given Christopher a dream. Christopher: To come here. TERRY MEEUWSEN: Boarding one student costs about 500 dollars per year, and Christopher hasn’t yet found a sponsor. So every day after school, while the other kids play outside, Christopher continues to work for his uncle. Christopher: But something there they can treat me somehow that I don’t like. When I’m in the house, they can say, “Come out. This is not your house,” in the morning. TERRY MEEUWSEN: But at the school, Christopher feels like he has a family. Christopher: Because they’re kind to me. They take care of me like they’re my mum and dad. TERRY MEEUWSEN: Christopher is an intelligent and kind boy, with a strong, yet gentle spirit. We know he would excel if he were living at the school, so we’re giving him a special surprise. (To Christopher): What did you tell me yesterday was the thing you wanted more than anything? Christopher: To be in boarding. TERRY MEEUWSEN: To be in boarding. Well, you know what, Orphan’s Promise is going to sponsor you. So as of today, this is your new home. You get to come and stay here, okay? Christopher: Okay. Thank you. TERRY MEEUWSEN: You are so welcome. I want you to know that God heard your prayer. And last night I woke up and I was thinking about you. And you know what I thought? Do you know who David was in the Bible? Christopher: Mm-hm. TERRY MEEUWSEN: Yes, he was a great man of God. And you know what he was first? A shepherd boy. And that’s what you’ve been, a shepherd boy. And you’ve been faithful to that. And God wants to do something powerful for you. (Reporting): So instead of herding donkeys as his uncle’s servant, Christopher is surrounded by people who love and appreciate him. He’s getting an education and playing with his friends after school. Because of people like you, Christopher has hope for the future. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * TERRY MEEUWSEN: I love this little boy, not just because he’s smart and filled with promise, but because of his heart attitude about things. He could be so bitter about what life has dealt him, but he’s not. He just wants to be all that God created him to be. He just wants an opportunity. You are making that possible if you’re a member of The 700 Club. And I want to say thank you to you. Kids like Christopher are waiting all around the world for people like you and me to say, “Yes, I can make a difference in their lives. You can be a part of that right now by going to your phone and calling that toll free number: 1-800-759-0700. You can also log on to CBN.com. Joining The 700 Club means a gift of 20 dollars a month. That’s just 65 cents a day. Will you make a difference in the lives of children like this? Don’t sit back and think about it anymore. Step up to the plate and do it today. Gordon. GORDON ROBERTSON: All right, I’ve got some great news. Kansas City, Kansas, a brand new Chairman’s Circle, 10,800 dollars. All of that goes into this 200,000 dollar challenge. We’ve got six minutes and 41 seconds. We want to go way over the top on this. There are so many avenues available to CBN today. We have so many opportunities to preach the Gospel via television, through our WorldReach centers around the world, 12 regional centers, all dedicated to preaching the Gospel in their heart language. We’ve trained local Christians how to do this, how to have testimonies of what Jesus is doing in their culture today, not some far off time, not some far off country, but what Jesus is doing right there in their midst today and then inviting them to pray, to receive Jesus into their hearts, inviting them to pray to receive miracles. And you can be a part of it when you join The 700 Club, because a portion of every gift goes into the work of CBN WorldReach to preach the Gospel. So if you want to be a part of all of that, call us right now and say, “Yes, I’ll join The 700 Club,” 1-800-759-0700. Well, a recent poll says more than 50 percent of Americans don’t like their jobs. And not long ago, Vu Tran was one of them. But in just a few years, he went from scraping by on minimum wage to running his own business. Here’s how he did it. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * VU AND REBA TRAN DORY NISSEN: Vu Tran has a lot to be thankful for. He has a beautiful family and owns a thriving aquarium business, and he often has more work than he can handle. Compare that with life a few years ago, and you get a pretty different picture. Vu Tran: I had a minimum wage job that was paying, but I was barely making ends meet, and it was kind of tough just living paycheck to paycheck. DORY NISSEN: Vu was a new Christian then and watched The 700 Club as much as possible. That’s where he heard a message on money. PAT ROBERTSON: As you plant seed, Jesus says if you give, it’ll be given unto you. Vu Tran: One of the key principles I learned from Pat was the law of reciprocity that he taught on how that if you give, God will give back unto you. There were certain months that I did struggle, and that really took a lot of faith to write that check out to CBN. But I was obedient to God and obedient to the principle of giving. DORY NISSEN: Vu began praying for a way to get out of his minimum wage job cleaning aquariums at a pet store. Vu Tran: During that time, there was a housing market boom, so people were putting in expensive aquariums in their houses. So on my days off, people would always ask me, “Vu, what are you doing? Come help clean my tank. Come help me set up my tank.” On my days off, I would be making more money than my days I worked. So figure that one out. DORY NISSEN: Vu started his own aquarium cleaning business, which was an instant moneymaker. Vu Tran: I don’t even advertise, and I have so much work that I couldn’t even handle, that I had to hire people to help me out. Because the Bible says that what you give, the Lord will bless you. And not only that, but He’ll cause men to heap unto your bosom. That’s people supporting what you do, supporting what you sell, and supporting your business. DORY NISSEN: Vu’s servicing business made so much profit, he was able to go into retail, as well, and opened a store. He also increased his giving to CBN and joined the 2500 Club. Vu Tran: As I started increasing my level of giving, I saw how God blessed my business. He opened up other doors. The more level of faith I took, I saw more results, how God had blessed and prospered. DORY NISSEN: Today Vu makes ten times more than he did when he worked his minimum wage job. Vu Tran: I encourage people to take that leap of faith, and write out that check, and bless God’s Kingdom. God will bless you back in ways that you can’t even imagine. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GORDON ROBERTSON: Take the leap of faith. Take the faith to say, “I can live better on God’s 90 percent than I can on my hundred percent.” Do it right now. Call us: 1-800-759-0700. We just have two minutes and 55 seconds in a 200,000 dollar challenge. We want to go way over the top on this because the needs around the world are so great, and we want to be there. So if you want to be a part of everything we’re doing, call us right now: 1-800-759-0700. Terry. TERRY MEEUWSEN: Well, Mike and Carrie Griegs live in Indianapolis. That’s a city that’s been hit hard by the recession. The Griegses love to help people who are struggling, because not too long ago, they were the ones who needed help. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * MICHAEL AND CARRIE GRIEGS KEN HULME: For 15 years, Mike Griegs wrote auto loans for major domestic car dealers. This past year, he was unemployed. Mike Griegs: With the economy starting to go downhill, the lenders losing money and the bailouts and stuff that they needed, it obviously started to take a toll on my job. And eventually, it dwindled down to where my position was phased out all together. KEN HULME: When things got tight, Carrie says they didn’t know what to do. Carrie Griegs: “Oh, we need diapers. Let’s go to Wal-Mart, just go to the store and get it.” And we’re like, “Yes, the diapers are still at Wal-Mart, but they want money for those diapers.” But just basics like that, where you almost hate to even change your baby’s diaper, because you don’t know where the next diaper is coming from. KEN HULME: So Carrie sent the kids to her mom’s house, but it wasn’t simply so they could see grandma. Carrie Griegs: They’re used to going over to Mamaw’s house and picking through her cupboards to see what she doesn’t want instead of going to the grocery store. KEN HULME: But Grandma could only help so much. So the Griegses turned to a nearby food pantry called The Refuge, which gets a lot of its food and supplies from Operation Blessing. Mike Griegs: The Refuge and Operation Blessing was a big help. Back during the winter when it got really tough and we was struggling just to pay the bills here, food was hard to come by. And we were able to go into The Refuge and Operation Blessing and get some food and get some extra clothing. Carrie Griegs: They have diapers. Everything they helped out with. KEN HULME: The Griegses' story does have a happy ending. Mike is back to work, and the couple is actually giving back to others in need. Carrie Griegs: It was so wonderful to give some of that back, because we don’t know who is out there in the same situation that we were just in. It really meant so much to us, and that we were able to give back and do that. And I can’t wait until we can do it again. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * TERRY MEEUWSEN: There is joy in giving. And I love what Carrie says. You don’t know who is out there. What we know is, they are out there. And we need to help and make a difference. Will you stand with us? Call now: 1-800-759-0700. Join The 700 Club. Gordon. GORDON ROBERTSON: All right, if I can get a drum roll, we’ve got some great news. Here from Monroeville, Pennsylvania, a 1000 Club member saying, “I want to increase, and I want to do it through Pledge Express. I want to go all the way to Founder,” 5,000 dollars. We’re counting down to victory. We’ve gone way over the top. We’re going to count everything on the phones. We had a 200,000 dollar challenge. Against that, you gave 246,960 dollars. We leave you today with these words from Psalm 136, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. And His love endures forever.” God bless you. We’ll see you again on Monday. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * END SPOT A: PLEDGE EXPRESS Announcer: While Mary feeds her two young daughters, she also helps feed needy families around the world. While Bob hands a drink out to a co-worker, he helps give water to villages with new wells. And while Carl builds a house for his son’s new puppy, he helps rebuild homes in disaster areas. TERRY MEEUWSEN: These people all have something in common. They’re CBN partners who have joined Pledge Express. It’s easy to sign up. Just give us a call, log on to CBN.com or return the Pledge Express form you receive in the mail. Then each month, we’ll send you “Power for Life,” and you’ll receive this powerful CD called Overcoming Stress. So join us and change the world for someone today. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * END SPOT B: RIGHT ON THE MONEY ANNOUNCER: Here is what people are saying about Right on the Money. Woman: Right on the Money helped me to be mindful and be prepared for the future for retirement, as well as college for my children. ANNOUNCER: Get Right on the Money and discover how to get out of debt, how to build your road map to wealth and how to prepare a solid financial future. Man: This teaching will give you a whole new start on how to manage your money. ANNOUNCER: Right on the Money. Available now. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 10:00 OPEN GORDON ROBERTSON: Well, welcome to The 700 Club. A surprise announcement from the Nobel committee. President Obama was named the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. The award was given to encourage the President’s initiatives which include cutting nuclear weapons, easing tensions with the Muslim world and emphasizing diplomacy. It was a decision that shocked even those in the audience. Thorbjorn Jagland: The Nobel Peace Prize for 2009 is to be awarded to President Barack Obama for his extraordinary efforts. GORDON ROBERTSON: Obama was nominated less than two weeks into his presidency, and that was to meet the February deadline for the prize. The Nobel committee did recognize that so far Obama’s measures have not born any fruit. This is an interesting story. Certainly it has shocked everybody. Here in the very first term he’s being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, not for accomplishments, but for aspirations. And while I’m not an advisor to the President, he might want to consider saying, “Thanks, but no thanks. Let’s put this on hold until these dreams become reality.” Wendy Griffith has more from the CBN Newsroom. Wendy. HATE WENDY GRIFFITH: Gordon, the House of Representatives has passed a controversial hate crimes bill giving new protections to homosexuals and other groups. But Christians warn the bill could have a chilling effect on the freedom of religion. The bill did not pass on a straight up or down vote. Instead, it was attached to a defense spending measure. Jennifer Wishon has that story from Washington. JENNIFER WISHON: Although the legislation is designed to help US troops: Rep. Mike Pence: I sadly urge my colleagues to vote against the Defense Authorization Bill. JENNIFER WISHON: That’s because supporters added the hate crimes to the defense package. Hate crimes legislation adds homosexuals and transgendered Americans to the list of already protected classes of race, religion and national origin. Supporters say the bill is necessary. Sen. Carl Levin: Between 1998 and 2007, more than 77,000 hate crime incidents were reported, and the trend is up for hate crimes based on sexual orientation. JENNIFER WISHON: Texas Congressman Louie Gohmert says Christians denounce violence against anyone, but argues there are already laws on the books to deal with such crimes that are, in many cases, tougher. And he says Congress should not attach language to a defense bill that weakens constitutional rights of free speech and freedom of religion, including the freedom to preach on sexual morality. Rep. Louie Gohmert: We're going to take away the freedoms of people of faith to stand up and read Romans I in public. Because if you read Romans I in public and you get to verse 25, and some nut hears that and goes out and commits an act of violence, you can be arrested because you induced him. JENNIFER WISHON: Some late changes were made to the bill to strengthen protections for religious speech, but not everyone believes they're enough. The full Senate could vote on it as soon as next week. President Obama has said he will sign it into law. Jennifer Wishon, CBN News, Washington. PHILIPPINE DEATHS WENDY GRIFFITH: Flashfloods and mudslides in the northern Philippines have killed well over 160 people, and that number is expected to rise. That brings the overall death toll to more than 450 people. The Philippines is experiencing the worst flooding it’s seen in 40 years caused by back to back typhoons. Nonstop rain is making rescue efforts difficult. ISRAELI TEAM TO PHILIPPINES WENDY GRIFFITH: An Israeli medical team flew to Manila today to help the Filipino people devastated by the typhoons. Operation Blessing Israel played a key role in connecting Israeli medical experts with the Operation Blessing team on the ground in the Philippines. Shachar Zahavi: The connection between Operation Blessing for us to get to the Philippines was a really crucial one. Because it allowed us, it opened for us doors that before were actually closed. Charmaine Hedding: We've been working with our Philippine Operation Blessing with Dr. Kim in order to receive them and to immediately plug the team in the relief effort now going on in the Philippines and also going on in the north in the Philippines. REMOTE WENDY GRIFFITH: And turning to Indonesia now, search teams are still looking for survivors from last week’s massive earthquake. Operation Blessing was able to help victims of the quake in a remote area near the center of that quake, but only after one television cameraman made sure the relief team had a way to get there. George Thomas has this amazing story. GEORGE THOMAS: This is where Raymond Sitorus is most comfortable: behind a camera documenting Operation Blessing's disaster relief work in the earthquake zone. But this week, Raymond found himself in the uncomfortable position of trying to convince an Indonesian police chief to loan him this helicopter. Raymond Sitorus: I was filming at an Operation Blessing med