A group of four year olds were gathered in a Sunday school class in Chattanooga. The teacher looked at the class and asked this question: "Does anyone know what today is?"
A little four-year-old girl held up her hand and said," Yes, today is Palm Sunday." The teacher exclaimed, "That's fantastic, that's wonderful. Now does anyone know what next Sunday is?"
The same little girl held up her hand and said, "Yes, next Sunday is Easter Sunday." Once again the teacher said, "That's fantastic. Now, does anyone know what makes next Sunday Easter?"
The same little girl responded and said, "Yes, next Sunday is Easter because Jesus rose from the grave" and before the teacher could congratulate her, she kept on talking and said, "but if he sees his shadow -- he has to go back in for seven weeks."
Luke 19:28-48:
Jesus’ Triumphant Entry
28 After telling this story, Jesus went on toward Jerusalem, walking ahead of his disciples. 29 As he came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples ahead. 30 “Go into that village over there,” he told them. “As you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks, ‘Why are you untying that colt?’ just say, ‘The Lord needs it.’”
32 So they went and found the colt, just as Jesus had said. 33 And sure enough, as they were untying it, the owners asked them, “Why are you untying that colt?”
34 And the disciples simply replied, “The Lord needs it.” 35 So they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it for him to ride on.
36 As he rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of him. 37 When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen.
38 “Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord!
Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!”
39 But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, “Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!”
40 He replied, “If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!”
Background - Palm Sunday
In fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 62:11 & Zechariah 9:9), Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. The crowds lined the street shouting "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord."
(Psalm 118:25-26) They placed palm branches and robes in front of Jesus. This was particularly disturbing to the religious leaders who were jealous of Jesus. They demanded that Jesus silence the crowd, but he responded that even if the crowd were silent, the stones would cry out.
The events of the next week would forever change the world. Jesus entered Jerusalem and the crowd welcomed him as a king. By the end of the week they were demanding his death. His followers abandoned him in fear. None of his close followers had really understood the events of Palm Sunday and Holy Week until after Jesus returned. They had all expected Jesus to be an earthly king, but God had given them something so much better - an open door into a Kingdom that would never end.
Will You HONOR The King?
Who honored him and how did they do it? Will you do it?
“Show me the man you honor and I will know what kind of man you are.” T. Carlyle
1. The disciples honored him with obedience.
The disciples honored the Lord by following his direction for their lives. Is it better to give your offerings to Lord or to obey his desires for your life?
He wants you to be saved. He wants you to serve Him in this life in a church where you can use your God given talents to honor him. The greatest ability you can have is availability
2. The owner of the colt honored him with what he owned.
Would you be willing to give what you have to honor the Lord? You can’t take it with you.
On a telecast Billy Graham told the story of the man who instructed his wife to put his money in his casket when he died, so that he could buy his way into heaven. So, when he died his wife deposited the money in the bank and wrote a check to put in the casket with her husband.
Too many times what we own becomes that which comes between the Lord and us. Instead of that which we use to bring him honor.
3. The colt honored him with submission.
Every new colt has to be broken before it can be ridden. The colt that Jesus rode had never been ridden before. It submitted itself to Lord for his use. And he was glorified.
When Jesus gets on an unbroken colt it immediately submits itself to the master. He is the creator so that when the creation recognizes him it submits to the higher power.
4. The crowd honored him by laying their clothes/palms in the way.
The people honored the King when he came into a town. They would greet him on the road with shouts, praises, and palm branches or anything else that they could find to lay into the path to make his entry into the town smooth.
What could we do to make his way smooth? To honor means to respect, admire, esteem, reverence, worship , or to be in awe of.
Will you honor him by giving to him what you have to make his way smooth into the lives of others? Will you give what you have as a sacrifice to him?
5. The whole multitude honored him by praising God and rejoicing for all the mighty works they had seen.
A teacher was doing her best to discredit the miracles of the Bible. She said, "Take, for instance, the crossing of the Red Sea. We know this body of water was only 6 inches deep." Immediately from the back of the room came the remark, "Praise God for the miracle!" Annoyed, the teacher asked, "What miracle?" "Well," explained the boy, "the Lord must have drowned the whole Egyptian army in just 6 inches of water!"
They praised Jesus one day and crucified Him the next. Do we do the same thing? Lip praise is useless if not backed by life praise. All God's creatures will praise. All were (vs.40) created to honor God. Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess. Now or later.
"Save now, I beseech thee, O Lord," is essentially the meaning of "Hosanna." The crowds were acknowledging Jesus as the promised Messiah, the Son of David, and the "chief priests and scribes ... were sore displeased" at this (Matthew 21:15).
6. The stones would honor him. All of his creation will honor him.
Roma 14:11 (KJS) For it is written, [As] I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
Even the stone cold ones will one day be forced to bow to him in submission.
But now we can honor him willingly and lovingly. He is the King who has come in the name of the Lord. He is the Lord. Will you honor him?
7. The Pharisees could have honored him, but they chose to honor themselves.
Do we smooth the road or throw obstacles in the path of His work in the church? Are we holding back or trying to hold others back from praising the Lord? If we hold back then we are holding back all those who would come through our witness.
8. We can honor him today by laying our palms before him.
Will you go out of your way to honor and please the king? (vs.39)But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, “Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!” Pharisees were faultfinders.
Some church’s have faultfinding Pharisees, never happy, never satisfied, always complaining. Those who will cause trouble & confusion in church dishonor Christ. They never allowed Christ to be their Lord.
Will you lay your palm before him today? If it is your desire to honor the Lord today by giving to him your life will you come lay your palm on the altar?
Just do it.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Saturday, March 20, 2010
God's Way is Best
“I’d rather do it myself!” How many of us have ever said that? It sounds kind of childish, doesn’t it? We would expect such a statement from a five year old, but not an adult, right? Yet, how many of us react to things that way?
Think about it. We human beings want things our way. We see the world through our own spectacles. And when God calls, we often say, “I hear you calling God, so here’s what I want you to do.” A lot of people do that! They’re ok with seeking God’s will - as long as they have the “final say” in what happens. Are we like that?
That’s not often the way it works. Many times God calls us to do things differently than what we think should be done. God often calls us to “step out of our comfort zone,”
God’s Way Is Best
Psalm 37:5:
Commit your way to the Lord ; trust also in Him and He will bring it to pass.
To commit ourselves to the Lord means entrusting everything- our lives, families, jobs, possessions- to his control and guidance.
To commit ourselves to the Lord means to trust in him, believing that he can care for us better than we can ourselves.
We should be willing to wait patiently for him to work out what is best for us.
1. The Relinquishment - means to give over possession or control of.
“Commit your way to the Lord”
A. Some Christians insist on clinging to their own ideas. They lack spiritual victory.
B. We are to enjoy God’s best, we must yield our way, will, work, and walk to him.
Colossians 2:6:
And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him.
Receiving Christ as Lord of your life is the beginning of life with Christ. But you must continue to follow his leadership by being rooted, built up, and strengthened in the faith.
Christ wants to guide you and help you with your daily problems. You can live for Christ by committing your life, and submitting your will to him.
C. To walk in God’s way and please him means we must totally commit our time, talent, and treasures to him.
D. We should be ready to assist the needy and homeless, comfort the bereaved and lonely, sharing Christ’s with others whenever opportunity affords.
2. The Reliance - means trusting in or depending on
“Trust also in Him”
A. Christians often fail to trust in the Lord as they should. They rely on their own strength and fail.
B. Some Christians depend too much on doctors, lawyers, or friends. We should be thankful for the help of others, but our ultimate trust must be in God.
C. We should trust in the Lord with our whole spirit and soul and body .Christ must control all of us.
Bank accounts may fail, possessions may fail, but Jesus never fails.
D. God’s way is best
Psalm 37:40:
And the Lord helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they trust and take refuge in Him.
3. The Reward
“And He shall bring it to pass”
A. God rewards those who are totally committed to him, would trust him implicitly.
B. God rewards his children by enabling them to be a blessing to others. Their influence reaches out to attract others to Christ.
C. God’s way is best. He not only rewards the faithful in this life, but he rewards them also in the next life eternal.
D. Jesus said in John 14:2,3
There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am
We can look forward to eternal life, because Jesus promised it to all you believe in Him. Although the details of eternity are unknown, we need not fear because Jesus is preparing for us and will spend eternity with us.
God’s way is best!
The importance of doing things God's way might seem different at first. Doing things as God requires sometimes defies human logic, but ultimately leads to sanctified Christians, that grow in character and who live in a way that is pleasing unto God.
God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
The greatest discovery of any generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering the attitudes of their minds.
When the church is unified, and the Lord is glorified... then the saints are sanctified, and the devil will be terrified.
God has already given you a custom designed destiny that He wants you to fulfill. He knows every detail of your mission here on Earth.
You have a purpose that will be life changing for those around you and possibly worldwide. You must realize the significance of your mission.
Only you can fulfill your destiny. It was given only to you. The good news is God has already provided everything you will ever need to successfully complete your mission.
Are you willing to do whatever He asks you to do? Have you made that life changing commitment to trust Him with your entire life? If you haven't yet, today would be the best day to make that decision.
Are you willing to give up your ways? You may think you know the best way to live your life, but God knows what is truly best for you.
He has given you a handbook on how to live this life He has given you. It is the bestselling book of all times. It is the Bible.
It has EVERY answer you will ever need about any area of your life especially your destiny. He wants you to read your life manual and reveal to you how much He loves you, accepts you and desires to be with you in an intimate relationship.
What does that have to do with fulfilling your destiny? It will be out of your personal, intimate relationship with God that you will live out your life the way God created it, for His glory.
You need to decide WHEN you are going to live your life God's way. Will it be today? Others lives are at stake. Today can be the beginning of living your life, God's way, the best way. Are you ready?
The choice is up to you.
Don’t be afraid to share your heart to God. That’s what he wants. Don’t be afraid to give him your joys and your fears.
Don’t be afraid to answer his call, on his terms. He will call. He will challenge you. He will stretch you. And he will love you beyond what you can ever ask or think.
Think about it. We human beings want things our way. We see the world through our own spectacles. And when God calls, we often say, “I hear you calling God, so here’s what I want you to do.” A lot of people do that! They’re ok with seeking God’s will - as long as they have the “final say” in what happens. Are we like that?
That’s not often the way it works. Many times God calls us to do things differently than what we think should be done. God often calls us to “step out of our comfort zone,”
God’s Way Is Best
Psalm 37:5:
Commit your way to the Lord ; trust also in Him and He will bring it to pass.
To commit ourselves to the Lord means entrusting everything- our lives, families, jobs, possessions- to his control and guidance.
To commit ourselves to the Lord means to trust in him, believing that he can care for us better than we can ourselves.
We should be willing to wait patiently for him to work out what is best for us.
1. The Relinquishment - means to give over possession or control of.
“Commit your way to the Lord”
A. Some Christians insist on clinging to their own ideas. They lack spiritual victory.
B. We are to enjoy God’s best, we must yield our way, will, work, and walk to him.
Colossians 2:6:
And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him.
Receiving Christ as Lord of your life is the beginning of life with Christ. But you must continue to follow his leadership by being rooted, built up, and strengthened in the faith.
Christ wants to guide you and help you with your daily problems. You can live for Christ by committing your life, and submitting your will to him.
C. To walk in God’s way and please him means we must totally commit our time, talent, and treasures to him.
D. We should be ready to assist the needy and homeless, comfort the bereaved and lonely, sharing Christ’s with others whenever opportunity affords.
2. The Reliance - means trusting in or depending on
“Trust also in Him”
A. Christians often fail to trust in the Lord as they should. They rely on their own strength and fail.
B. Some Christians depend too much on doctors, lawyers, or friends. We should be thankful for the help of others, but our ultimate trust must be in God.
C. We should trust in the Lord with our whole spirit and soul and body .Christ must control all of us.
Bank accounts may fail, possessions may fail, but Jesus never fails.
D. God’s way is best
Psalm 37:40:
And the Lord helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they trust and take refuge in Him.
3. The Reward
“And He shall bring it to pass”
A. God rewards those who are totally committed to him, would trust him implicitly.
B. God rewards his children by enabling them to be a blessing to others. Their influence reaches out to attract others to Christ.
C. God’s way is best. He not only rewards the faithful in this life, but he rewards them also in the next life eternal.
D. Jesus said in John 14:2,3
There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am
We can look forward to eternal life, because Jesus promised it to all you believe in Him. Although the details of eternity are unknown, we need not fear because Jesus is preparing for us and will spend eternity with us.
God’s way is best!
The importance of doing things God's way might seem different at first. Doing things as God requires sometimes defies human logic, but ultimately leads to sanctified Christians, that grow in character and who live in a way that is pleasing unto God.
God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
The greatest discovery of any generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering the attitudes of their minds.
When the church is unified, and the Lord is glorified... then the saints are sanctified, and the devil will be terrified.
God has already given you a custom designed destiny that He wants you to fulfill. He knows every detail of your mission here on Earth.
You have a purpose that will be life changing for those around you and possibly worldwide. You must realize the significance of your mission.
Only you can fulfill your destiny. It was given only to you. The good news is God has already provided everything you will ever need to successfully complete your mission.
Are you willing to do whatever He asks you to do? Have you made that life changing commitment to trust Him with your entire life? If you haven't yet, today would be the best day to make that decision.
Are you willing to give up your ways? You may think you know the best way to live your life, but God knows what is truly best for you.
He has given you a handbook on how to live this life He has given you. It is the bestselling book of all times. It is the Bible.
It has EVERY answer you will ever need about any area of your life especially your destiny. He wants you to read your life manual and reveal to you how much He loves you, accepts you and desires to be with you in an intimate relationship.
What does that have to do with fulfilling your destiny? It will be out of your personal, intimate relationship with God that you will live out your life the way God created it, for His glory.
You need to decide WHEN you are going to live your life God's way. Will it be today? Others lives are at stake. Today can be the beginning of living your life, God's way, the best way. Are you ready?
The choice is up to you.
Don’t be afraid to share your heart to God. That’s what he wants. Don’t be afraid to give him your joys and your fears.
Don’t be afraid to answer his call, on his terms. He will call. He will challenge you. He will stretch you. And he will love you beyond what you can ever ask or think.
Friday, March 19, 2010
My way or the Highway
Many times we say "it's either my way or the highway". Way to often we may not say it out loud in prayer to God but believe me we are thinking it, our words are speaking " your will be done" but inside we are screaming "do it the way I tell you to do it God".
God knows best, Jer 29:11 says He knows the plans He has for us , plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us a hope and a future. I don't know about you but that sounds great to me. The question is if we believe this why do we try to tell Him what to do so often. Put your trust in Him today, surrender your all to Him. If you stop and think about it what do you have to lose? Better yet - say yes to Him today and experience all you have to gain.
God knows best, Jer 29:11 says He knows the plans He has for us , plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us a hope and a future. I don't know about you but that sounds great to me. The question is if we believe this why do we try to tell Him what to do so often. Put your trust in Him today, surrender your all to Him. If you stop and think about it what do you have to lose? Better yet - say yes to Him today and experience all you have to gain.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Dream Big
Eph 3:20 speaks to my heart. God is able to do more than we could ever ask or imagine. I am a man full of big dreams but you know what... God in His word encourages us to dream BIG. He said He will give us the desires of our hearts as long as its according to His will. To be honest 99.9% of my dreams are to further the Kingdom of God. I want to stand before Him one day and hear him utter those famous words "well done good and faithful servant".
I believe if we stop dreaming big we only limit what God could do in us and through us. Now don't get me wrong, He isn't Santa Clause but he does desire to give His children great things. We have to remember to much is given much is expected.
Dare to dream BIG for the lord. Don't let your present circumstance stop you from dreaming today.
I believe if we stop dreaming big we only limit what God could do in us and through us. Now don't get me wrong, He isn't Santa Clause but he does desire to give His children great things. We have to remember to much is given much is expected.
Dare to dream BIG for the lord. Don't let your present circumstance stop you from dreaming today.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Strength For Each Day
Strength For Each Day
Deut. 33: 25 says and as the days so shall your strength be
1. Strength through prayer to God
Prayer is an address (as a petition) to God in word or thought
In Matthew 21:22 says you can pray for anything and if you have faith you will receive it.
This verse is not a guarantee that we can get anything we want simply by asking Jesus and believing. God does not grant requests that would hurt us or others, or that would violate his own nature or will.
A. Many Christians lack strength because they are a careless and lax where there prayer life is concerned.
B. Prayer is the Christian life line. Through prayer we communicate and have fellowship with God.
C. The Scriptures tell us in Philippians 4: 6 don’t worry about anything instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
Imagine never worrying about anything. It seems like an impossibility, we all have worries on the job, in our homes, at school. But Paul advice is to turn our worries into prayer.
2. Strength through the promises of God
Promise is reason to expect something
Isa 41:10 says don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
We need not to fear because of the promises of God (God is with us, God has established a relationship with us, and God gives us assurance of his strength, help, victory over sin and death. Are you aware of all the promises of God?
A. Some Christians lacked strength because they neglect the promises of God.
B. We should seek out the promises in God’s Word that fits our needs, remember them, recall them often, and claimed them as our own.
C. 2 Peter 1:4 say’s and because of his glory and excellence, He has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.
The strength to lead a godly life comes from God. Because we don’t have the resources to be truly godly God allows us to share his divine nature in order to keep us from sin and help us live for Him.
3. Strength through performance for God
Performance is: the execution of an action b: something accomplished
Philippines 4:13 says for I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.
This doesn’t mean we have superhuman ability but as we contend for the faith, we will face troubles, pressures and trials, as they come ask Christ, to strengthen you.
A. Christians gain strength by doing God’s work. He enables them to accomplish tasks that bless others and glorify him.
B. Many people fail to do God’s work, because they are too involved in their interests.
C. Take time for God. In Isaiah 40:29 it says he gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.
Even the strongest people get tired at times, but God’s power and strength never diminish. He is never too tired or too busy to help and listen. His strength is our source of strength.
When you fill all of life crushing you and you cannot go another step, remember that you can call upon God to renew your strength.
4. Strength through praise to God
Praise means to glorify God.
Psalm 71 says but I will hope continually, and I will praise thee more and more … I will go in the strength of the Lord God.
We must never despair but keep on expecting his help no matter how severe our limitations. Hope in him helps us to keep going- to keep serving.
A. After saying he would praise the Lord more and more, David said in psalms I will go in the strength of the Lord.
B. We gain strength by praising the Lord. Praise encourages a positive attitude, and lifts our sagging spirits.
C. God is worthy of all our praise. We can never praise him enough. Psalms 34 says I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises.
God promises great blessings to his people, but many of these blessings require active participation. He will set us free from our fears, guard and defend us, show his goodness, supply our needs, listen when we call to him, and redeem us, and we must do our part to.
We can appreciate his blessings when we trust him, cry out to him and praise him.
Many Christians measure difficulty by the lack of their own resources, and because of that they attempt very little and fail at much. All successful people started out as weak men/ women who realized the power and presence of God in their lives.
2 Corinthians 12:9:
9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
The fact that God’s power is displayed in our weaknesses should give us courage and hope. . As we recognize our limitations, we will depend more on God for our effectiveness rather than on our own energy, effort, or talents.
Our limitations not only help develop Christian character but also deepen our worship, because in admitting them, we affirm God’s strength.
When we are strong in abilities or resources we are tempted to do God’s work on our own, and that can lead to pride.
When we are weak, allowing God to fill us with his power, then we are stronger than we could ever be on our own.
God does not intend for us to be weak, passive, or ineffective- life provides enough hindrances and setbacks without us creating them. When those obstacles come, we must depend on God. Only his power will make us effective for him and will help us do work that has lasting value.
Deut. 33: 25 says and as the days so shall your strength be
1. Strength through prayer to God
Prayer is an address (as a petition) to God in word or thought
In Matthew 21:22 says you can pray for anything and if you have faith you will receive it.
This verse is not a guarantee that we can get anything we want simply by asking Jesus and believing. God does not grant requests that would hurt us or others, or that would violate his own nature or will.
A. Many Christians lack strength because they are a careless and lax where there prayer life is concerned.
B. Prayer is the Christian life line. Through prayer we communicate and have fellowship with God.
C. The Scriptures tell us in Philippians 4: 6 don’t worry about anything instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
Imagine never worrying about anything. It seems like an impossibility, we all have worries on the job, in our homes, at school. But Paul advice is to turn our worries into prayer.
2. Strength through the promises of God
Promise is reason to expect something
Isa 41:10 says don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
We need not to fear because of the promises of God (God is with us, God has established a relationship with us, and God gives us assurance of his strength, help, victory over sin and death. Are you aware of all the promises of God?
A. Some Christians lacked strength because they neglect the promises of God.
B. We should seek out the promises in God’s Word that fits our needs, remember them, recall them often, and claimed them as our own.
C. 2 Peter 1:4 say’s and because of his glory and excellence, He has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.
The strength to lead a godly life comes from God. Because we don’t have the resources to be truly godly God allows us to share his divine nature in order to keep us from sin and help us live for Him.
3. Strength through performance for God
Performance is: the execution of an action b: something accomplished
Philippines 4:13 says for I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.
This doesn’t mean we have superhuman ability but as we contend for the faith, we will face troubles, pressures and trials, as they come ask Christ, to strengthen you.
A. Christians gain strength by doing God’s work. He enables them to accomplish tasks that bless others and glorify him.
B. Many people fail to do God’s work, because they are too involved in their interests.
C. Take time for God. In Isaiah 40:29 it says he gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.
Even the strongest people get tired at times, but God’s power and strength never diminish. He is never too tired or too busy to help and listen. His strength is our source of strength.
When you fill all of life crushing you and you cannot go another step, remember that you can call upon God to renew your strength.
4. Strength through praise to God
Praise means to glorify God.
Psalm 71 says but I will hope continually, and I will praise thee more and more … I will go in the strength of the Lord God.
We must never despair but keep on expecting his help no matter how severe our limitations. Hope in him helps us to keep going- to keep serving.
A. After saying he would praise the Lord more and more, David said in psalms I will go in the strength of the Lord.
B. We gain strength by praising the Lord. Praise encourages a positive attitude, and lifts our sagging spirits.
C. God is worthy of all our praise. We can never praise him enough. Psalms 34 says I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises.
God promises great blessings to his people, but many of these blessings require active participation. He will set us free from our fears, guard and defend us, show his goodness, supply our needs, listen when we call to him, and redeem us, and we must do our part to.
We can appreciate his blessings when we trust him, cry out to him and praise him.
Many Christians measure difficulty by the lack of their own resources, and because of that they attempt very little and fail at much. All successful people started out as weak men/ women who realized the power and presence of God in their lives.
2 Corinthians 12:9:
9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
The fact that God’s power is displayed in our weaknesses should give us courage and hope. . As we recognize our limitations, we will depend more on God for our effectiveness rather than on our own energy, effort, or talents.
Our limitations not only help develop Christian character but also deepen our worship, because in admitting them, we affirm God’s strength.
When we are strong in abilities or resources we are tempted to do God’s work on our own, and that can lead to pride.
When we are weak, allowing God to fill us with his power, then we are stronger than we could ever be on our own.
God does not intend for us to be weak, passive, or ineffective- life provides enough hindrances and setbacks without us creating them. When those obstacles come, we must depend on God. Only his power will make us effective for him and will help us do work that has lasting value.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
History
For those who may not know, about two years ago my wife and I decided that God was leading us out of our current church and into a new direction.We stepped out in faith and with literally nothing but ourselves we started a church called Church of the New Harvest ,not having a clue on who would even attend or where to hold services.This wasn't a church plant, we didn't have all these supporters but we did have the Holy Spirit on our side.
So we had our first services in a senior center on the east side of Lorain.We quickly found out after the first service that they where doubling our rent ... so talk about being discouraged, did we make the right choice? Did we truly hear from the Lord? You can only imagine the questions we had.So we quickly started looking at other locations, the library, hotels you name it. Then we where lead to the Children's Developmental Center in Amherst and never even missed a service.. oh how God stepped in and made a way.
Now we are wanting to move out of our current place and into a more permanent building where we can call home. We went and looked at a place today and it has potential but really needs a lot of work , I mean a lot. Since we our a newer church you guessed it we don't have a lot of money but just like God made a way two years ago and got us in a building I am not doubting He can and will do the same again.
I serve a God who made coins appear in fishes mouths and took a little boys lunch and blessed it and fed 5000 men not including the women and children that were there that day. So I have all the faith to believe He will provide and make a way where there seems to be no way.Our vision is "equipping people to believe, receive and achieve all that God has for them" we stand behind this statement because we know that God has a bright future in store for us, so we will keep looking and praying that our Heavenly Father will provide us with a home for our church where we can worship Him and continue to reach out into our community as a body of believers. Can I get an amen to that?
So we had our first services in a senior center on the east side of Lorain.We quickly found out after the first service that they where doubling our rent ... so talk about being discouraged, did we make the right choice? Did we truly hear from the Lord? You can only imagine the questions we had.So we quickly started looking at other locations, the library, hotels you name it. Then we where lead to the Children's Developmental Center in Amherst and never even missed a service.. oh how God stepped in and made a way.
Now we are wanting to move out of our current place and into a more permanent building where we can call home. We went and looked at a place today and it has potential but really needs a lot of work , I mean a lot. Since we our a newer church you guessed it we don't have a lot of money but just like God made a way two years ago and got us in a building I am not doubting He can and will do the same again.
I serve a God who made coins appear in fishes mouths and took a little boys lunch and blessed it and fed 5000 men not including the women and children that were there that day. So I have all the faith to believe He will provide and make a way where there seems to be no way.Our vision is "equipping people to believe, receive and achieve all that God has for them" we stand behind this statement because we know that God has a bright future in store for us, so we will keep looking and praying that our Heavenly Father will provide us with a home for our church where we can worship Him and continue to reach out into our community as a body of believers. Can I get an amen to that?
Friday, March 12, 2010
Need Strength
Sometimes dealing with life we can become weak or so we think.I will be the first to admit a lot of times we don't always get what we want out of life but God makes sure we always get what we need. If you have been feeling weak lately and just don't seem to have that giddy up and go left in you I invite you to join us this Sunday at 11 to find out how to get strength for each day.When we are weak He is strong.Allow God to empower you and not let your present circumstances way you down, stand up and be more than a conquers today.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Overcoming Living
1.Who is overcoming living for ? All
Matthew 11:28
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Many of us our carrying around heavy burdens.
Webster defines a burden by - something oppressive or worrisome
What is oppressing you today? What has control over your life today? What is it that is weighing you down in your body and mind?
Is it your job, drugs, alcohol, your marriage ,sexual additions. Are you suffering from past hurts from long ago that you been trying to bury over and over again. Are you struggling with pride in your life, anger, have you been depressed lately. Maybe the doctors haven’t given you the best of news about your condition.
No matter what the case Jesus frees people from all these burdens. The rest that Jesus promises is love, healing, and peace with God, but not the end of all labor.
Living an overcoming life isn’t easy. Responsibilities weigh us down, even the effort of staying true to God. But staying true to God will always remain easy compared to the crushing alternative.
Jesus doesn’t offer a life of luxurious ease but He does promise to never leave us or forsake us . Someone with more pulling power is up front helping. Suddenly you are participating in life’s responsibilities with a great partner.
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him who have been called according to his purpose.
God works in everything not just isolated incidents for our good. This does not mean everything that happens to us is good. Evil is prevalent in our fallen world , but God is able to turn every circumstance around for our long range good.
Note that this promise is not for everybody. It can be claimed only by those who love God.
Such people have a new perspective, a new mind set. They trust God, not worldly treasures; there security is in heaven, not on earth. Their faith in God does not waver in pain and persecution because they know God is with them.
Overcoming living can be for all if you choose to accept it.
2. What is overcoming Living? To get the better out of life.
It means living in positives. We need to focus on what IS, what CAN BE, what is pleasing , meaningful and, productive to what God would have for you.
—rather than what you don’t have, what you are not, what is stopping you, what is wrong with the world, what bothers or upsets you.
It does not mean that those things aren’t a factor, but that you will choose not to give way to them.
We can achieve this type of living because of the authority we have in Christ.
Luke 10:19
I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.
What are the snakes and scorpions in your life today, what is poising your body, marriage, career, your relationships?
Living an overcoming life also means having peace.
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
In spite of inevitable struggles you will face, you are not alone. Jesus does not abandon us to our struggles. If you will remember that ultimate victory has already been won, you can claim the peace of Christ in the most troublesome times.
3.When should we be living overcoming lives? Now
Galatians 5:16-17
So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.
The battle is happening now so it only makes sense that we should also be living an overcoming life now.
There are literally two forces fighting within us- the Holy Spirit and the sinful nature(our evil desires or inclinations that stem from our body).
These forces are not equal- the Holy Spirit is much stronger. But if we rely on our own wisdom, we will make wrong choices. If we try to follow the Spirit by our own human effort, we will fail.
Our only freedom today from our evil desires is through the empowering of the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 4:22-24
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Our old way of life before in Christ is completely in the past. We should put it behind us like old clothes to be thrown away.
When we decide to accept Christ’s gift of salvation, it is both a one time decision, as well as a daily conscious commitment. We are not to be driven by desires and impulses.
We must put on the new nature now, head in the new direction now, and have the new way of thinking that the Holy Spirit gives to us now.
Today is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it.
4. Why should we live overcoming lives?
Its simple - to receive the crown of life..
James 1:12-15
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Gods crown of life is not glory and honor here on earth but the reward of eternal life- living with God forever.
The way to be in Gods winning circle is by loving him and staying faithful even under pressure.
When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Temptation comes from evil desires inside us, not from God. It begins with an evil thought and becomes sin when we dwell on the thought and allow it to become an action.
Like a snowball rolling downhill, sin grows more destructive the more we let it have its way.
It is easy to blame others and make excuses for evil thoughts and wrong actions. A person who makes excuses is trying to shift the blame from himself to something or someone else.
What we need to do is accept responsibility for our wrongs, confess them, and ask God for forgiveness.
If we want to live a victorious life and receive that crown of life we have to take a good look at the man in the mirror and face reality. God has a plan for each one of us and in order to fulfill those plans we must live an overcoming life.
5.How do we live a overcoming life? Submitting, self-control and being alert.
James 4:7-8
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Although God and the Devil are at war, we don’t have to wait until the end to see who will win. God has already defeated Satan, and when Christ returns, the devil, and all he stands for will be eliminated forever.
Satan is here now, however, and he is trying to win us over to his evil cause. With the Holy Spirit’s power, we can resist the devil and he will flee from us.
1 Peter 5:8-10
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
To live an overcoming life we must come close to God.
How can you come close to God?
1. Humble yourself before God. Yield to his authority and will, commit your life to him and his control, and be willing to follow him.
2.Resist the devil. Don’t allow Satan to entice and tempt you.
3.Wash your hands… and purify your hearts(that is, lead a pure life). Be cleansed from sin, replacing your desires to sin with your desire to experience God’s purity.
4. Let there be sorrow and deep grief for your sins. Don’t be afraid to express deep heartfelt sorrow for what you have done.
5. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
Romans 8:35.37
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ....No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Romans 12:21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Alter call.
Satan is out to kill , steal and destroy but we serve a living God who is here to heal, build and restore
Matthew 11:28
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Many of us our carrying around heavy burdens.
Webster defines a burden by - something oppressive or worrisome
What is oppressing you today? What has control over your life today? What is it that is weighing you down in your body and mind?
Is it your job, drugs, alcohol, your marriage ,sexual additions. Are you suffering from past hurts from long ago that you been trying to bury over and over again. Are you struggling with pride in your life, anger, have you been depressed lately. Maybe the doctors haven’t given you the best of news about your condition.
No matter what the case Jesus frees people from all these burdens. The rest that Jesus promises is love, healing, and peace with God, but not the end of all labor.
Living an overcoming life isn’t easy. Responsibilities weigh us down, even the effort of staying true to God. But staying true to God will always remain easy compared to the crushing alternative.
Jesus doesn’t offer a life of luxurious ease but He does promise to never leave us or forsake us . Someone with more pulling power is up front helping. Suddenly you are participating in life’s responsibilities with a great partner.
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him who have been called according to his purpose.
God works in everything not just isolated incidents for our good. This does not mean everything that happens to us is good. Evil is prevalent in our fallen world , but God is able to turn every circumstance around for our long range good.
Note that this promise is not for everybody. It can be claimed only by those who love God.
Such people have a new perspective, a new mind set. They trust God, not worldly treasures; there security is in heaven, not on earth. Their faith in God does not waver in pain and persecution because they know God is with them.
Overcoming living can be for all if you choose to accept it.
2. What is overcoming Living? To get the better out of life.
It means living in positives. We need to focus on what IS, what CAN BE, what is pleasing , meaningful and, productive to what God would have for you.
—rather than what you don’t have, what you are not, what is stopping you, what is wrong with the world, what bothers or upsets you.
It does not mean that those things aren’t a factor, but that you will choose not to give way to them.
We can achieve this type of living because of the authority we have in Christ.
Luke 10:19
I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.
What are the snakes and scorpions in your life today, what is poising your body, marriage, career, your relationships?
Living an overcoming life also means having peace.
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
In spite of inevitable struggles you will face, you are not alone. Jesus does not abandon us to our struggles. If you will remember that ultimate victory has already been won, you can claim the peace of Christ in the most troublesome times.
3.When should we be living overcoming lives? Now
Galatians 5:16-17
So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.
The battle is happening now so it only makes sense that we should also be living an overcoming life now.
There are literally two forces fighting within us- the Holy Spirit and the sinful nature(our evil desires or inclinations that stem from our body).
These forces are not equal- the Holy Spirit is much stronger. But if we rely on our own wisdom, we will make wrong choices. If we try to follow the Spirit by our own human effort, we will fail.
Our only freedom today from our evil desires is through the empowering of the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 4:22-24
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Our old way of life before in Christ is completely in the past. We should put it behind us like old clothes to be thrown away.
When we decide to accept Christ’s gift of salvation, it is both a one time decision, as well as a daily conscious commitment. We are not to be driven by desires and impulses.
We must put on the new nature now, head in the new direction now, and have the new way of thinking that the Holy Spirit gives to us now.
Today is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it.
4. Why should we live overcoming lives?
Its simple - to receive the crown of life..
James 1:12-15
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Gods crown of life is not glory and honor here on earth but the reward of eternal life- living with God forever.
The way to be in Gods winning circle is by loving him and staying faithful even under pressure.
When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Temptation comes from evil desires inside us, not from God. It begins with an evil thought and becomes sin when we dwell on the thought and allow it to become an action.
Like a snowball rolling downhill, sin grows more destructive the more we let it have its way.
It is easy to blame others and make excuses for evil thoughts and wrong actions. A person who makes excuses is trying to shift the blame from himself to something or someone else.
What we need to do is accept responsibility for our wrongs, confess them, and ask God for forgiveness.
If we want to live a victorious life and receive that crown of life we have to take a good look at the man in the mirror and face reality. God has a plan for each one of us and in order to fulfill those plans we must live an overcoming life.
5.How do we live a overcoming life? Submitting, self-control and being alert.
James 4:7-8
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Although God and the Devil are at war, we don’t have to wait until the end to see who will win. God has already defeated Satan, and when Christ returns, the devil, and all he stands for will be eliminated forever.
Satan is here now, however, and he is trying to win us over to his evil cause. With the Holy Spirit’s power, we can resist the devil and he will flee from us.
1 Peter 5:8-10
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
To live an overcoming life we must come close to God.
How can you come close to God?
1. Humble yourself before God. Yield to his authority and will, commit your life to him and his control, and be willing to follow him.
2.Resist the devil. Don’t allow Satan to entice and tempt you.
3.Wash your hands… and purify your hearts(that is, lead a pure life). Be cleansed from sin, replacing your desires to sin with your desire to experience God’s purity.
4. Let there be sorrow and deep grief for your sins. Don’t be afraid to express deep heartfelt sorrow for what you have done.
5. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
Romans 8:35.37
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ....No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Romans 12:21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Alter call.
Satan is out to kill , steal and destroy but we serve a living God who is here to heal, build and restore
Sunday, March 7, 2010
You Get What You Give
You Get What you Give
Luke 6:38:
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.
This text is used in reference to giving and receiving money, but applies also to greater values. Such as…
If we are critical rather than compassionate we will receive criticism. If we treat others generously, graciously, and compassionately, however, these qualities will come back to us in full measure.
1. Consideration
Colossians 3:12-13:
12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
The key to forgiving others is remembering how much God has forgiven you. If we want forgiveness we must be willing to give consideration to others who wronged us.
A. The kind of seeds a farmer sows determines the kind of harvest he will reap.
B. The spiritual seed we plant also determines the harvest. If we are considerate of the feelings and needs of others, we will usually receive kindness and appreciation in return.
C. Consideration for others brings God’s blessing. God forgives us as we forgive.
Matthew 6:14:
14 “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.
He is pleased when we love one another. Let God worry about the wrongs we’ve suffered. Don’t quench your life feuding: live renewed in love and joy.
2. Consolation (to comfort)
2 Corinthians 1:4:
4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
The more we suffer, the more comfort God gives us. If you are feeling overwhelmed, allow God to comfort you.
Remember that every trail you endure will help you comfort other people who are suffering similar troubles.
A. God comforts His children, enabling us to be comforters to others.
B. We receive God’s blessings when we reach out with compassion to the bereaved, the lonely, the troubled and depressed.
C. God consoles Christians with His presence. He never leaves nor forsakes them.
Hebrews 13:5
I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,"
He consoles with His peace
Many think that when God comforts us, our troubles should go away. But if that were always so, people would turn to God only out of a desire to be relieved of pain and not out of love for him.
Philippians 4:7:
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
God’s peace is different from the world’s peace. True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings.
It comes from Knowing that God is in control.
Let God’s peace guard your heart against anxiety.
What to worry less? Then pray more!
3. Cooperation
1 Corinthians 3:9:
9For we are laborers together with God
God’s work involves many different individuals with a variety of gifts and abilities. There are no superstars in this task, only team members performing their own special roles.
A. Independence is no longer a virtue when it creates difficulty in working with God and others because we insist on doing things our way.
B. To receive the benefits of congeniality, we must work together in harmony and unity of spirit.
Psalm 133
How wonderful and pleasant it is
when brothers live together in harmony!
Harmony is pleasant and precious.
Unfortunately, harmony is not always found in the church, as it should be.
People disagree and cause division over unimportant issues.
Some delight in causing tension by discrediting others.
Harmony is important because
1.It makes the church a positive example to the world and helps draw others to the Lord.
2. It helps us cooperate as a body of believers as God meant us to, giving us a foretaste of heaven.
3. It renews and revitalizes ministry because there is less tension to sap our energy.
Living in harmony does not mean that we will agree on everything there will be many opinions just as there are many notes in a musical chord.
But we must agree on our purpose in life- to work together for God. Our outward expression of harmony will reflect our inward harmony of purpose. And we will make beautiful music together.
C. As laborers with God we help in the work of the church and assist wherever we find opportunity.
Ephesians 4:2-3:
2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. 3 Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.
No one is ever going to be perfect here on earth, so we must accept and love other Christians in spite of their faults.
When we see faults in fellow believers, we should be patient and gentle.
Is there someone whose actions or personality really annoys you?
Rather than dwelling on that persons weaknesses or looking for faults, pray for him or her.
To build unity is one of the Holy Spirits important roles.
He leads, but we have to be willing to be led and to do our part to keep the peace. We do that by focusing on God, not on ourselves.
4. Confidence
1 John 5:14:
14 And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.
If we align our prayers to His will, He will listen: and we can be certain that if He listens, He will give us a definite answer.
Start praying with confidence!
A. Lack of faith is often expressed through pessimistic attitudes that bring disappointment to self, discouragement to others, and displeasure to God.
Hebrews 11:6:
6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
B. We demonstrate faith by declaring our confidence in God.
When we do, others will grow in faith through our influence
C. The more we exercise our faith the more it will grow. Unused faith dwindles and dies.
James 2:17-18:
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
MAKING IT REAL
Practically speaking, how can I put all this into practice? The answer is simple. Start giving. I want you to do at least once a day each of the following:
1. Say something to encourage someone.
2. Shine a big smile on someone.
3. (extra credit) Look at a person's face and think,” I’m seeing an image of God" (Genesis 1:27). This will help you to appreciate the tremendous inherent value in all human beings, including yourself!
Remember you get what you give!
Luke 6:38:
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.
This text is used in reference to giving and receiving money, but applies also to greater values. Such as…
If we are critical rather than compassionate we will receive criticism. If we treat others generously, graciously, and compassionately, however, these qualities will come back to us in full measure.
1. Consideration
Colossians 3:12-13:
12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
The key to forgiving others is remembering how much God has forgiven you. If we want forgiveness we must be willing to give consideration to others who wronged us.
A. The kind of seeds a farmer sows determines the kind of harvest he will reap.
B. The spiritual seed we plant also determines the harvest. If we are considerate of the feelings and needs of others, we will usually receive kindness and appreciation in return.
C. Consideration for others brings God’s blessing. God forgives us as we forgive.
Matthew 6:14:
14 “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.
He is pleased when we love one another. Let God worry about the wrongs we’ve suffered. Don’t quench your life feuding: live renewed in love and joy.
2. Consolation (to comfort)
2 Corinthians 1:4:
4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
The more we suffer, the more comfort God gives us. If you are feeling overwhelmed, allow God to comfort you.
Remember that every trail you endure will help you comfort other people who are suffering similar troubles.
A. God comforts His children, enabling us to be comforters to others.
B. We receive God’s blessings when we reach out with compassion to the bereaved, the lonely, the troubled and depressed.
C. God consoles Christians with His presence. He never leaves nor forsakes them.
Hebrews 13:5
I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,"
He consoles with His peace
Many think that when God comforts us, our troubles should go away. But if that were always so, people would turn to God only out of a desire to be relieved of pain and not out of love for him.
Philippians 4:7:
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
God’s peace is different from the world’s peace. True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings.
It comes from Knowing that God is in control.
Let God’s peace guard your heart against anxiety.
What to worry less? Then pray more!
3. Cooperation
1 Corinthians 3:9:
9For we are laborers together with God
God’s work involves many different individuals with a variety of gifts and abilities. There are no superstars in this task, only team members performing their own special roles.
A. Independence is no longer a virtue when it creates difficulty in working with God and others because we insist on doing things our way.
B. To receive the benefits of congeniality, we must work together in harmony and unity of spirit.
Psalm 133
How wonderful and pleasant it is
when brothers live together in harmony!
Harmony is pleasant and precious.
Unfortunately, harmony is not always found in the church, as it should be.
People disagree and cause division over unimportant issues.
Some delight in causing tension by discrediting others.
Harmony is important because
1.It makes the church a positive example to the world and helps draw others to the Lord.
2. It helps us cooperate as a body of believers as God meant us to, giving us a foretaste of heaven.
3. It renews and revitalizes ministry because there is less tension to sap our energy.
Living in harmony does not mean that we will agree on everything there will be many opinions just as there are many notes in a musical chord.
But we must agree on our purpose in life- to work together for God. Our outward expression of harmony will reflect our inward harmony of purpose. And we will make beautiful music together.
C. As laborers with God we help in the work of the church and assist wherever we find opportunity.
Ephesians 4:2-3:
2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. 3 Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.
No one is ever going to be perfect here on earth, so we must accept and love other Christians in spite of their faults.
When we see faults in fellow believers, we should be patient and gentle.
Is there someone whose actions or personality really annoys you?
Rather than dwelling on that persons weaknesses or looking for faults, pray for him or her.
To build unity is one of the Holy Spirits important roles.
He leads, but we have to be willing to be led and to do our part to keep the peace. We do that by focusing on God, not on ourselves.
4. Confidence
1 John 5:14:
14 And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.
If we align our prayers to His will, He will listen: and we can be certain that if He listens, He will give us a definite answer.
Start praying with confidence!
A. Lack of faith is often expressed through pessimistic attitudes that bring disappointment to self, discouragement to others, and displeasure to God.
Hebrews 11:6:
6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
B. We demonstrate faith by declaring our confidence in God.
When we do, others will grow in faith through our influence
C. The more we exercise our faith the more it will grow. Unused faith dwindles and dies.
James 2:17-18:
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
MAKING IT REAL
Practically speaking, how can I put all this into practice? The answer is simple. Start giving. I want you to do at least once a day each of the following:
1. Say something to encourage someone.
2. Shine a big smile on someone.
3. (extra credit) Look at a person's face and think,” I’m seeing an image of God" (Genesis 1:27). This will help you to appreciate the tremendous inherent value in all human beings, including yourself!
Remember you get what you give!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Church
I was wanting to know the reason why people dont attend church, any response I would appreciate it.
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