Category: Christians

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Convinced, Convicted, Converted…Feb. 22nd

It’s one thing to be convinced of something, but something totally different to be converted. Then again, how can I be converted without ever having  been convicted? When you consider the Christian walk, we understand this progression. But perhaps it was never more clearly established as it was on the Day of Pentecost as noted in Acts chapter 2.

After hearing Peter’s ‘sermon’ the crowd was convinced that, “…God (had) made Him both Lord and Christ (Messiah) – this repentanceJesus whom you (they) crucified.” Their response leads us to know that they were more than convinced, they were convicted; “Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brethren, what shall we do?” Reading further we see how they are ‘converted.’ But maybe we need to dig deeper to see how convinced we are that Jesus is the Messiah. Looking at your life, ask the question; if I have been ‘converted,’ am I truly convicted? Does my behavior convince others that Jesus is Lord of my life?

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, Feb. 22, 2014

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

Beginning our worship together, we’ll sing an old spiritual song to admonish each other and confirm our conviction. “My hope is built on Jesus blood and righteousness,”…and nothing less than that. What better way to communicate that hope than when we sing the third verse, “His oath, His covenant, His blood, support me in the whelming flood (trials of life). When all around (me) my soul gives way (I start to feel like I’m losing my hold on things), He then is all my hope and stay (security).” Are you convicted enough to say, “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand.”

“I Know Whom I Have Believed” – 524

Our contribution will come early this morning, and as we consider our ‘giving’ ask the simple question…why do I give? I don’t know why God’s wondrous grace was made know to me, and I don’t know how the Holy Spirit moves men to convict them of the sin in their life, and none of us have a clue when the Lord will return. But I do know the grace of Jesus is mine, the Holy Spirit lives in me and the Lord will return. We know and we give because He gave His Son to us. And convinced of this we give and we sing, “I know whom I have believed…”

Thomas said...“Thomas’ Song” – 269

When we lose a loved one, we often weep knowing we’ll never be able to walk with them, talk with them or hold their hand. We know the comfortable relationship we once shared is gone. We miss them and know things have changes. Maybe that’s what Thomas was thinking as we are singing, “If I could only hold your hand…” Though Christ died on the cross, we know, we are convinced, that He rose from the dead and lives today. We can walk with Him, talk with Him and hold His hand. And we can echo Thomas as he proclaimed, “You are my Lord and my God!”

“In His Presence” – 99

Following the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing, “In His presence, there is comfort. In His presence, there is peace…” Do you feel at peace with God? Are you convinced that He is everything He said He was? Do you have a conviction that moves you to self-sacrifice? Are you truly converted? Are you ‘covered’ with His presence?

“I Need Thee Every Hour” – 837

After the scripture reading, Acts 2:36, 37, we’ll sing an old hymn of comfort. Listen to the words from Acts 2, then sing the words of our hymn; “Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said…”what shall we do?” “I need Thee every hour, most Holy One…”

“O For a Faith that Will Not Shrink” – 540

With this song before our lesson, consider the flow of the songs; “O bless me now my Savior, I come to Thee…” “O for a faith that will not shrink, though pressed by every foe…” If you are convinced that Jesus is your source of salvation, and if you are convicted with a faith that ‘will not shrink,’ how well does your life demonstrate a converted heart?

“Nothing But the  Blood” – 902

“Oh precious is the flow…” but you might ask, ‘the flow of what?’ Our answer is found in scripture as we consider the words of the Hebrew writer. The blood of bulls and goats flowed from the altar as the priest offered sacrifices. But, “how much more will the blood of Christ…cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”

“Blessed Assurance” – 480

If we are convinced, convicted and converted then we can truly sing with blessed assurance…Jesus IS mine. And a converted soul pours forth the joy of living in Christ, “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long!”

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Building a Canal…Feb. 8th

As a young boy I can remember singing the old song, “Low Bridge.” The words of the On the Erie Canal / Frederick Elmigerchorus are still fresh in my mind, “Low bridge, everybody down. Low bridge cause we’re coming to a town. Where you’ll always know your neighbor, you’ll always know your pal, if ya ever navigate the Erie Canal.” Written at the turn of the century this song describes the work of an old mule as she pulls lumber, coal, passengers and hay from Albany to Buffalo, New York. But some of our younger generation might ask the question, what is a canal? The simplest definition would be a man-made water highway for navigation and transportation. Nicaragua1

But what kind of ‘connection’ can we make between Christianity and a man-made canal? Sunday morning we’ll be listening to a report from Robert Taylor as he shares details from his recent mission trip to Nicaragua. From the wealth of Texas to the poverty of a third world country, we know there is more than just geography that separates our two cultures. Join us Sunday morning as we listen to the work being done to reach the lost in Nicaragua. In fact, let’s consider what goes into… Building a Canal.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”  I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, February 8, 2015

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“I Stand in Awe” – 96

“You are beautiful beyond description…too marvelous for words. Too wonderful for comprehension, like nothing ever seen or heard. Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom, who can fathom the depth of Your love. You are beautiful beyond description, Majesty enthroned on high, and I stand in awe of You! Holy God to Whom all praise is due, I stand in awe of You!” We know this hymn and we’ve sung it time and again, but are we processing what we’re saying? Are we in awe of God’s power and majesty? Is He more than we can fathom or comprehend? He is awesome, but are we willing to stand in awe of Him?

“O Worship the King” – 144

Continuing our praise to God this morning, we’ll sing a traditional hymn of praise that dates back more than 175 years! You’ll want to take note of the third verse, “Frail children of dust, (that would be you and me) and feeble as frail, in Thee do we trust, nor find Thee to fail. (We trust God because He will never let us down…but do we behave like we believe that?) Thy mercies, how tender, how firm to the end! (God cares, He’s tender, but He’ll also judge us…) Our Maker, Defender, Redeemer and Friend!”

“Hallelujah! What a Savior” – 337

Breaking this hymn into two parts, we’ll sing verses 1-4 before the Lord’s Supper, then after the fruit of the vine we’ll close with verse 5. Yes, Jesus died on the cross, but he didn’t stay in the tomb. He rose from the dead and… “When He comes, our glorious King, all His ransomed home to bring. Then anew this song we’ll sing, Hallelujah! What a Savior!”

“The Gospel is for All” – no book

How could we talk about taking the gospel to a lost and dying world and not sing this old spiritual song. The blessed gospel is for all and we have a great opportunity to build a canal and take the message to Nicaragua.

“Will You Not Tell it Today” – 628

A fitting invitation song as we ask each other, “If the name of the Savior is precious to you, if His care has been constant and tender and true, if the light of His presence has brightened your way…O will you not tell of your gladness today?” Though we won’t be singing all three verses, you’ll want to notice how the second and third verse end, before the chorus. “…O will you not, brother, the story repeat?” (verse 2) and “…O will you not tell them the cheer bringing word?” (verse 3). We have a great chance to help build a canal to the hungry children in Nicaragua, so when it comes to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ we ask each other, will you not tell it today?

“Lord Take Control” – 790

We’ll provide an opportunity to give to the work at Waterview as we pass the collection plate after the sermon (separate and apart from the Lord’s Supper). But this simple, contemporary hymn seems to sum it all up…“My heart, my mind, my body, my soul, I give to You (God) take control…” How will you give God control of your heart? Do you know what it will look like when God takes control of your mind? If we are truly going to be “a living sacrifice,” we need to do more than just sing about it…we need to hand in handchange the way we live.

“Hand in Hand with Jesus” – 397

One of those songs that seems to ‘sing itself,’ this spiritual song reminds us of our walk with Christ, hand in hand. No better way to build a canal than with the Master Builder. Let’s take His hand as we work together down the straight and narrow way.

“Into Our Hands the Gospel is Given” – no book

The closing song is a reminder of how quickly time flies. “Swiftly we’re turning life’s daily pages…” But not only are the hours ‘changing to years,’ but we need to think about how we’re using this time. Into OUR hands the gospel has been given…what are we doing with it? Are we wasting the years, or are we focused on sharing the gospel? We have a message to deliver, let’s transport the gospel by building a canal.

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Inspired or Inspiring?…Nov. 16th

Each Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings I look forward to a text from my daughter. She is a sophomore at Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee and her first 729class of the morning is at 7:30. Her ‘wake up’ call to me is a picture of the sunrise silhouetting the newly erected Bell Tower on campus. For me, those pictures are inspirational. And perhaps some architect was ‘inspired’ with this yet to be seen image. But regardless, we can find benefit in the final product.

Many in the world today find the words of God to be inspiring to them. They read (or hear) God’s word and it gives them a ‘good feeling.’ Perhaps they are even moved to be a better person, but is that the extent of God’s word? Is the inspiration good enough. Would it even be inspiring if it weren’t inspired? When we consider the inspiration of scripture we come face to face with a life altering decision. Sunday let’s consider the Word and ask the question…inspired or inspiring?

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”  I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, November 16, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Holy, Holy, Holy” – 47

“Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God almighty…early in the morning our songs shall rise to Thee.” The ladies start us off as they sing this old hymn, but with each verse we’ll add a different part. For those who might have missed it, this hymn comes from the inspired word found in Isaiah chapter 6 and verse 3 as well as Revelation chapter 4, verse 8 as the prophet and the apostle write, “And one (of the Seraphim, vs. 2) called out to another and said, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of host…” (Isaiah) and “And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings and full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God, the Almighty…” (Revelation).Habakkuk 2

“The Lord is in His Holy Temple” – 108

As a segue from our song of praise, we’ll remember the words of Habakkuk in the 2nd chapter and 20th verse, “But the Lord is in His holy temple. Let all the earth be silent before Him.” (Read the whole chapter to get a better feel of this statement.) But where is His temple? Is it found in the heavenly realm? Read the words of Paul as he wrote to the church in Corinth, “Do you not know that you are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” And so now we sing, “The Lord is in His holy temple…” Humble yourself, be quiet and realize, the Lord is in YOU!

“The Lord’s Supper” – no book

Simply entitled, “The Lord’s Supper,” this spiritual song brings to mind the reason we gather together each first day of the week. “When we meet in sweet communion where the feast divine is spread. Hearts are brought in closer union while partaking of the bread. Precious feast, all else surpassing, wondrous love for you and me. While we feast Christ gently whispers, ‘Do this in My memory.” Luke chapter 22, verse 19 provides us with the basis; “And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”

“Take My Life and Let it Be” – 669

Several arrangements of this poem can be found in a number of hymnals, yet lest we miss the message for the tune, notice the words. “Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee; Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of Thy love. Take my will, and make it Thine, it shall be no longer mine; take my heart, it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne.” Within these two short verses we proclaim our life, our hands, our will and our heart belong to God. And in case we miss something, the chorus continues, “Lord I give my LIFE to Thee…”

“Rescue the Perishing” – 639

A familiar song, but Sunday we’ll sing the often, over looked 3rd verse. Notice the condition of the lost; “Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter, feelings lie buried that grace can restore; touched by a loving hand, wakened by kindness, chords that were broken will vibrate once more…” Let’s rescue the perishing and care for the dying. Because we know that Jesus is merciful and He will save!

“Faithful Love” – no book

Our song before the lesson speaks of the love God has for His children. A faithful love that is manifested in His Son. “Faithful love from above came to earth to show the Father’s love. And I’ll never be the same, for I’ve seen faithful love face to face and Jesus is His name.” No man alive today can say he has seen Jesus. So how could I say I’ve seen Jesus face to face? However, as a child of God, I have seen (poetically) His faithfulness in that, “…God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were (I was) yet sinners, Christ died for us (me).” Romans 5:8 Have I seen Jesus face to face? Not yet! Have I ‘come to know’ (seen) His faithful love? Every Christian would say, Praise be to God…Yes, when I was buried with Him in baptism!

“Thou Art the Way” – 280John 6

Inspiration in life is knowing the inspired Word. The inspired word is the Way, the Truth and the Life. We must never forget that God’s word is more than just inspirational…it’s inspired.

“Where Could I Go?” – no book

Our closing song is a question even the disciples once asked. John records the situation in the 6th chapter as Jesus asks, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Simon Peter replies, “…to whom shall we go?” And so we sing, “Where could I go but to the Lord?” Inspired words of God directing us in this life just as Peter said, “You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:67, 68)

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The Start of the Great Commission…Nov. 2nd

If you ask a believer where to find ‘the Great Commission’ they would point you to Matthew chapter 28. But in all actuality the words great commission aren’t found in this passage or any other scripture for that matter. So why do we refer to some of Christ’s last words as a commission, and a great one at that? Or maybe we Great-Commissionshould be asking what is a commission and why is this one great?

The words of Christ found in Matthew 28:18-20 are as follow: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age.” The commission from Christ is to GO. The reason this commission is great is because of the mission…making (baptizing) disciples and teaching them about Christ. Sunday morning we’ll look and see how we can be an active part, perhaps even start ‘the Great Commission.’

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, November 2, 2014

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Praise Him! Praise Him!” – 300

Opening our time together we’ll give our praise to God! Fulfilling the commission includes teaching, and in teaching we know we come to praise Him…ever in joyful song!

“Come Share the Lord” – 364

This contemporary song is a reminder of why we come together. “We gather here in Jesus name. His love is burning in our hearts like living flame. The One we love the most, is now our gracious host, come take the bread, come drink the wine (the fruit of the vine), come share the Lord…” Are you sharing your love for God? Will you tell others of His saving grace?

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

This older hymn is a strong example of evangelism. Looking toward the sea (of life), we see thousands adrift, and most don’t even realize their lost state. The Lighthouse (Jesus Christ) shines brightly calling for those who are seeking a refuge. We stand at the foot of the Lighthouse as the ‘lower lights’ direct and guide the weary traveler past the ‘treacherous shoal’ toward the light. Perhaps you need to check your light and see how brightly it’s shining. Remember, this is part of the Great Commission, directing those who are seeking.

“Send the Light” – 650

There is calling for all Christians every where to shine their light…albeit their lower light. As we strive to fulfill the commission Christ gave us more than 2000 years ago we have to ask ourselves if we’re really sending the light or if we’re holding it close. If you’re tired and would just as soon someone else do the work, then maybe you should sing the last verse of this song…“Let us not grow weary in the work of love…let us gather Lord-of-Harvestjewels for a crown above…”

“Far and Near” – 784

Our invitation song is one we don’t sing often, but one that explains more clearly the great commission. It finds root in Christ’s words to His disciples in Luke 10, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore beseech the Lord of harvest to send out laborers in His harvest. So we sing, “Lord of harvest send forth reapers, hear us Lord to Thee we cry. Send them now the sheaves to gather ‘ere the harvest time pass by.”

“The Gospel is for All” – no book

This is one of my favorites as we proclaim the fact that ALL can come to Christ. The blessed gospel is for all! We’ll sing this as we set aside time to give toward the Great Commission Sunday. Our mission work will be our focus this morning!

“Into Our Hands” – no book

Life is passing by quickly. Just take a look in the mirror see how many gray hairs are adorning your crown as opposed to 10 years ago. Or look at the pictures of your children you have hanging on the wall…from 20 years ago. “Swiftly we’re turning life’s daily pages…how are we using God’s golden moments, shall we reap glory…shall we reap tears?” We’ll sing this question, and we know what the answer should be, therefore we sing, “…into our hands the gospel is given, into our hands is given the light.” Fulfilling the great commission means we’re willing and ready to take the message from our hands to the hearts of those who are dying. Get ready and prepare yourself to start the great commission.

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Can a Christian Be a Thinking Person?…Oct. 19th

It was written in 1929 by Ernest Hemingway in the novel, A Farewell to Arms. A simple sentence that haunts mankind, “All thinking men are atheists.” The secular world would have you believe that faith in God is weakness and scientific ignorance.  Thinking mind

In a world that speaks with disdain toward God and elation toward self, what is a Christian to do? What can we say that will convince the ‘un-churched’ to reconsider their path of ungodliness? When we profess our belief in “…God created…”, the world dismisses this as ancient myth. But we believe in an intellectually superior God who shaped and formed the earth. Remember what Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, “They (unbelievers) are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of the hearts.”

Waterview welcomes Dr. Phil Thompson of Harding University on Sunday, October 19th. He will be presenting two classes and two lessons designed to answer the question, “Can thinking people believe?”

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, Oct. 19, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” – 162psalm 148

Built into a medley with “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah,” we’ll begin our worship together with these songs of praise. “All hail the power of Jesus’ name let angels prostrate fall! Bring forth the royal diadem and crown Him Lord of all…” Is Christ the Lord of your life? You make that decision, though your decision has no bearing on His royalty. He reigns! We will either follow Him or we will not. A foolish, deceived world will not, but rest assured, He is Lord of All!

“Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah” – 3

Taken from the 148th Psalm we’ll sing the scripture in this ‘psalm.’ Have you read it lately? If not, after we sing it you really should read it! His divine power is reinforced in His creation, everything praises Him. The question is…will you?

“We Saw Thee Not” – 342

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing the first three verses remembering Christ’s death. Perhaps the power comes in the conclusion of each of these verses as we sing (twice for emphasis), “But we believe…”

“My Faith Has Found a Resting Place” – 582

Not an overly familiar song, but one which we need to understand and daily echo the chorus, “I need no other argument, I need no other plea, it is enough that Jesus died and rose again for me.” Do you have the faith to be able to not only sing these word, but believe them and live your life accordingly?

“O Listen to the Wondrous Story” – 496

Before our lesson we’ll sing this popular spiritual song written more than 100 years ago. The third verse is a great question to the listener as we sing, “Will you surrender to this Savior? To His scepter humbly bow? You, too, shall come to know His favor, He will save you, save you now.” Then the chorus resounds with a question and answer, “Who saved us from eternal loss! Who but God’s Son upon the cross? What did He do? He died for you! Where is He now? Believe it thou, In heaven interceding!”

“Trust and Obey” – 915

“When we walk with the Lord in the light of His world, what a glory He sheds on our way…” You most likely know this song by heart having sung it for years. But often we are familiar with the first, second and last verses and have never fully learned the third verse. But this morning consider a line from this song which has implications on today’s lesson. “But we never can prove the delights of His love until all on the altar we lay; for the favor He shows, and the joy He bestows, are for those who will trust and obey.” So where are you in regard to laying your all on the altar. Or are you still trying to see if you can prove the delights of His love?

“Love Lifted Me” – 453

A rousing song as we part this morning. We will sing over and over the message of the chorus, “Love lifted me…” Do you find that living for Christ lifts your spirits? The child of God understands this ‘lift’ and finds comfort in his belief in a Savior. Though the world may think us to be ignorant or backward, we know where to look when we’re ‘sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore…’ Let’s not keep this story of salvation to ourselves. There is a dying world out there who desperately needs a Savior.

 

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Life on the Battlefield…Oct. 12th

A soldier’s job is defined by struggle. When conflicts arise, these men and women battlefieldput to practice all their training. A soldier, by definition, fights. Even in peace time, he is preparing himself for the inevitable battle. But what causes some in the heat of the battle to fight and die on the battlefield, while others will literally drop their weapons, strip off their uniform and run? Why do some stand with their fellow soldiers, supporting each other, while others don’t?

Understanding God’s word, the Christian realizes there is a daily struggle (Ephesians 5:10-17) in this life. We are in a battle against the wrong for the right. But the question remains, will we stay loyal or turn and run when the fight becomes fierce? Will we stand for what is right or crumble without a fight? Reader, know this…without a moral compass, without a ‘standard operating procedure,’ you will be left to guess and hope. Millions are trying to manage life, on their own. And yet Christians know the adversary is ‘on the prowl’ (I Peter 5), and without God’s word, we are ill-prepared. Rest assured, the devil, our adversary, is not waiting for us to step into battle, for this life is a battle. To be clear, we’re living life on the battlefield!

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, Oct. 12, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Doxology” – 66

Opening our worship this morning we’ll sing a basic hymn from years gone by. “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…” Before we even think about fighting the battles in life, we must draw strength from the One who gives us hope for our battles. Let’s praise the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

“The Glory-Land Way” – 535

Keeping the same key signature (musically), we’ll transition to another old favorite that echos the journey we’ve all chosen to take. A journey home to glory. Encouraging each other will give us added support for our individual battles. When we hear our family singing, “…heaven is nearer, and the way groweth (grows) clearer…” we find strength to keep on fighting for the goal.

“In Loving-Kindness Jesus Came” – 504crown of thorns

Focus on the third verse of this song as we consider our purpose in life on the battlefield, ‘”His brow was pierced with many a thorn, His hands by cruel nails were torn. When from my guilt and grief forlorn, in love He lifted me…” We are in battle, and there will be days we feel like we’re losing. After all, Christ was abused, beaten, mocked, disdained and killed on the cross. But never forget that He conquered death in His resurrection! So what does that mean me? In our daily battles, standing up for what is right and living with Christ as our guide..we have already won!

“Spirit of the Living God” – 422

A short, contemporary hymn that has a very interesting progression for the Christian. If we are to be the soldiers God calls us to be, there is a process we should consider. To be useful in battle we need to be melted down, and molded into what He wants us to be. Then we must be filled with His word and used for His glory. We sing, “Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me…melt me, mold me, fill me, use me…” A soldier fights for His commander and chief. We must answer the question, on the battlefields of life, who do we fight for?

“Christ Above Me” – no book

This hymn will likely be new to most, but the message is one we must learn and hold dear in our hearts. As a soldier of God, how do we visualize Christ in our life? Is He a Kevlar vest we put on for battle? Is His word a sword we pick up when we ‘go into a fight?’ Sing this song and follow the words as we recall how Christ is more than just part of our life…He IS our life. “Christ above me, Christ beside me, Christ within me ever guiding. Christ behind me, Christ before. Christ my love, my life, my Lord!”

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

Where are we ‘camping’ in this life? Is it on the battlefield, or do we prefer the ‘hills of light’ where there is peace and comfort. This old hymn, which you’ve sung for years, is a reminder that there is a war being fought for the soul of mankind. An obscure verse, which we’ll sing on Sunday, reminds us of the battle and how we should prepare for it. “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array (they can look pretty intimidating), let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray (the battle). Salvation’s helmet on each head, and truth all girt about (Ephesians 5), the earth shall tremble ‘neath our tread, and echo with our shout…Faith is the victory!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948Bible

Our invitation is a confirmation of our resolve in this battle, I’ll never quit! However, though most of us will sing that resolve, many will lay their weapons down when the fighting gets fierce. To stay faithful to Him, we have to remember what we sing in the chorus, “I will hasten (hurry) to Him.”

“To Christ Be True” – 736

What better way to finish off a lesson on life in the battlefield than to sing of our faithfulness to the battle. Soldiers must demonstrate loyalty in times of peace as well as times of battle. Just remember, “…To Christ, the Lord, be true and He will go with you. And help you through all your conflicts, to Christ the Lord be true!” 

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Walking With Royalty

This simple song could be classified as ‘contemporary,’ though it sings and sounds like many of our traditional hymns. Written and arranged by Alton Howard in 1971, I Walk with the King has a strong message of how we should live (walk) in this life. Each verse begins with the confirmation of WHO we spend our days with…“I walk with the King.” And the chorus provides us with a reference to the 23rd Psalm; “pastures so green…quiet (still) waters.” But notice how the third verse reminds us of the difficulties in life. Though life may have hours of darkness, for our struggle is against the forces of father son walkingdarkness, we take confidence in knowing that ‘…He is the true Light, the Kingdom of day!’

Musically, there is an echo for the men throughout the verses and the chorus of the song, but lest we forget what we’re singing, take a few minutes to read the words and listen to the message.

I walk with the King to heavenly land,
The Kingdom of light, the Pathway of right;
Eternal His throne forever ’twill be (it will be),
To mansions on high a crown there for me.

Chorus:
I walk with the King thru pastures so green,
By quiet waters still to do His good will;
He lighteth the way from darkness to day,
I’ll hold to His hand, I walk with the King.

I walk with the King His child ever be,
Glad tidings to bring, His blessings to see;
His love floods my soul with glory divine,
‘Tis riches and wealth His treasures are mine.

Chorus:

I walk with the King tho dark be the way,
He is the true light, the Kingdom of day;
Someday on yon (yonder) shore I’ll hear His voice say,
“Come home, you’re My child; ’tis (it is) evening, past day.”

Chorus:

Can you confidently say what you sing; are you walking with God in this life or are you ‘going it alone?’ Our goal must be for something greater than this life, and Christ came to give us the hope of heaven. Would that we, each day, walk with the King. But how does that ‘walk’ look? The simple answer is found in the second verse. To walk with the King, to be His child, we need to 1) bear glad tidings to those we meet (teach the word), 2) see (recognize) that our blessings are from His hand, and 3) be flooded with (give obedience to) the love of Christ. Careful to remember that while we’re walking with the King, we should be holding His hand. Be faithful to God and see the opportunity we have each day…to walk with Royalty.

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The Spread of the Kingdom…Aug. 17th

“Go, therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” These are the final words, recorded in Matthew chapter 28, of our Lord and Savior following His resurrection. His mission complete, Jesus called for all men to come to ‘know Him and the power of His resurrection.’ Phil. 3:10 We have come to know this passage as; “The Great Commission.”hologram...world

The word commission can be defined as, “a group of people officially authorized to perform certain duties or functions.”  In this context, Christians are that group of people. And we are the ones ‘authorized’ (given the duty) to teach Christ and baptize in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. We are called to make disciples from all the nations. An obligation to reach the lost with Christ. We know it, we’ve memorized it and we believe it…but how well do we follow it? Are we guilty of saying we agree, but then failing to ‘go, and make disciples of all the nations’? Whether we reach around the globe, or across the street, we have been given a ‘commission’ to spread the kingdom of God.


“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, August 17, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” – 749

Do we see our life as a battle? A quick glance at the evening news reveals unrest, strife and war all around. It seems we live in a war zone. But as Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, “…our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the…spiritual forces of wickedness.” (Ephesians 6:12) So Christians, this song could be translated, “As we go about our daily activities (enter into the land) we must go with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-20). And in this manner, there is no reason to be afraid. There is no weapon that our enemy can produce (fashion against us) that will stand against God.” Let’s take courage in knowing, “The Battle Belongs to the Lord!”

“Thomas’ Song” – 269thomas and Jesus

Written as though from the pen of ‘doubting’ Thomas, this song echos what might have been said by this disciple following the death of Jesus. “Jesus, You were all to me. Why did you die on Calvary? O Lamb of God I fail to see how this could be part of the plan…” Perhaps you can relate to the raw emotion and the depth of pain as you sing the first line of the chorus, “If I could only hold Your hand…” How often, when a loved passes do we long for one more chance to hold their hand. Certainly Thomas felt this same emptiness. But we move from the anguish of sorrow to the exclamation of joy as the risen Lord appears to his followers. It’s no wonder Thomas said, and we sing the words found in John 20:28, “I proudly say with blazon cry, You are ‘My Lord and my God!’ “

“Bethlehem…Galilee…Gethsemane” – 357

A beautiful song with a simple message. The message of Jesus’ birth, His life, His death and ultimately His resurrection. “Now He lives and reigns forever, I believe! I believe!” As a child of God, we believe…but are we faithful in sharing our belief? We must spread the message of the kingdom!


“The Greatest Commands” – 448

Each musical part; soprano, alto, tenor and bass have the opportunity to sing and harmonize the scripture with this contemporary psalm. Notice the reference to scripture with each line, singing with understanding of the love of God. That love is needed in a lost and dying world. We are called to make disciples of all the nations teaching them to…“Love one another for love is of God!”

“Send the Light” – 650

Listen carefully and you can hear the call that comes ringing from across the waves. And today that call is becoming more and more pronounced. God-fearing families are being told to denounce Jehovah God, and if they refuse, they face death. How can we send the light of Jesus Christ into send the lighta darkness of that caliber? The answer is Christ. We should “…pray that grace may everywhere abound…and a Christ-like spirit everywhere be found: Send the Light!”  

“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659

Words that will serve as our invitation song are actually a reminder of how we will show Christ in this world. Do you love to tell others about Jesus? How often in your day do you talk about ‘unseen things above?’ When you realize that ‘some have never heard the message of salvation,’ does that inspire you to tell the old, old story?

“Sowing the Seed of the Kingdom” – 643

We all have a responsibility in the kingdom of God. We are called to teach the commandments of Christ, baptize in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and ultimately make disciples. When we do this, we begin the harvest for God. Are you sowing the seed of the kingdom? Are you teaching the lost about Christ? Are you baptizing them and making disciples? ‘The harvest time is coming on…’ it’s time we get busy and spread the kingdom!

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Is God’s Love Conditional?

One of Jesus’ disciples, John, wrote in 1st John, chapter 3; “See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.”

When was the last time you stopped to consider how much love God has for you? Do you take time in the hustle and bustle of your life to stop and see ‘how great a love the Father has bestowed too busy to stop(presented as a gift) upon us?’ We often consider how much love we’re given by how much love we give. And too many times in this life, that’s not much. But the scripture is clear in Romans chapter 5, verse 8; “But God demonstrates His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us…” Why would He do that? What motivation does God have to love the sinful? And is His love conditional? Will He take His love away?

This same question is asked in a song by the McCoy Family Singers, “As If.” Many wonder how a pure, holy and divine God could possibly love a sinful, unholy mortal man. The words, as sung by the McCoy Family Singers are simple…

“There is a question now and then, that comes into my mind again…
Will Jesus someday cease to love me because I’m weak and full of sin?

I know the answer, Yes I do. I know His promises are true;
But still the question comes to taunt me, will His love fail to see me through?

As if the moon would fall down from the sky,
As if the pretty birds would cease to fly
As if the waves would stop their tossing on the sea
As if my sweet Lord would stop loving me.

As if the moon would fall down from the sky,
As if the pretty birds would cease to fly
As if the waves would stop their tossing on the sea
Oh No, my sweet Lord won’t stop loving me.”

Is God’s love for His children conditional? The answer in the Bible is “NO,” but don’t think He won’t hold His children accountable for their actions. Any parent who understands love, understands discipline. We love our children unconditionally, but we also expect our children to obey. Why should we think our heavenly Father would be any different. Will God ‘cease to love us?’ No! Will He hold us accountable for our actions? Without a doubt!