How Can I Know There Is a God? … June 4th

There is a question that has been asked for generations, from young and old, ‘How do you know? You say this is the way it goes, but how do you know?’ Some will tell you that the answer to the question is this…but how do they know? Even the jury needs to know for sure before coming down with a verdict. As a Christian, you have been told that there is a God. Still some may ask, “How do you know?”

The Christian stands tall on faith that what the Bible says is true. God is alive and Jesus loves me because…‘the Bible tells me so!’ But is there anything concrete I can share with my unbelieving friends? Can I give them something outside of God’s inspired word that confirms my belief that God is real? This coming Sunday morning at Faith Village church of Christ in Wichita Falls, come join us as we look at the question… “How Can I Know There Is a God?”

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

Sunday morning, June 4, 2017

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

“All the Way My Savior Leads Me” – no book

Where are you going in life? Is there an ‘end game’ to your daily activities? As God’s children we know that He directs our path (Proverbs 3:6) and we follow Him by faith. Thus we sing, “All the way my Savior leads me, O the fullness of His love. Perfect rest to me is promised in my Father’s house above.” Maybe we should all ask ourselves, who is leading me and were exactly am I going?

“Step By Step” – 15

Following our opening song, “Jesus lead me all the way,” we reaffirm that we will follow Him, step by step. But not just follow Him. We will seek Him in the morning and we will learn to walk in His ways…all the way He leads us.

“Redeemed” – 458

When you know that there is a God and you are His child, it’s easy, and sweet, to sing this next song. “I’m redeemed! By love divine, Glory, glory, Christ is mine, Christ is mine.” When we believe, obey and follow God we will have a ‘sweet song’ (verse 1) and experience great joy (verse 2)!

“O Listen to the Wondrous Story” – 496

Though perhaps not known as a ‘song before the Lord’s supper,’ the chorus supports our claim that we can have assurance and know there is a God. With a short Q&A, we ask, “Who saved us from eternal loss?” Answer, “Who (else) but God’s Son upon the cross?” Question, “Why, what did He do?” Answer, “He died for you!” Question, “Where is He now?” Answer, this is good… “Believe it thou (you), in heaven interceding!” (Read Romans 8:34, “Christ Jesus is He who died, yes rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.”)

“I Believe in the One They Call Jesus” – 356

How can we say we know for sure that God is real? Perhaps we follow the words from Romans 4:18 as Abraham’s faith was being discussed, “In hope against hope he believed…” That’s why, within this one song, we sing the word ‘believe’ eight times, in verse one alone. And before it’s all said and done, we’ll sing that we believe in Jesus, in His power, His authority, His life and His death a total of 22 times. So then you must decide if you’ll sing the last line of the chorus, “And I believe that He’s the answer for me.”

“Our God, He Is Alive” – 23

Written less than 50 years ago, this spiritual song has become one of the most popular hymns within churches of Christ. And perhaps there is no song more fitting as we consider our lesson today than the song with this title, Our God, He Is Alive! But look closely at verse three. Often skipped over and misunderstood by many, this verse reminds us that God is not only in control, He is in charge. He holds in His hand the secret of life, and though men may search for the answer, they will never find it. Why, because only God understands!

“I Know Whom I Have Believed” – 524

We have lots of questions in life. Even with this invitation song we find 5 questions we might ask. From God’s grace and His love, how the Holy Spirit ‘moves,’ what my future holds and when Christ will return. But even with these ‘queries,’ we sing with confidence…“I know whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him (my life in Christ) against that day.” (See II Timothy 1:12, “…for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him UNTIL that day.”…I believe that!)

“Blue Skies and Rainbows” – no book

Some say this is a campfire song…maybe, but notice the last two verses and how they support our message today. “Green grass and flowers all blooming in spring time…are works of the Master I live for each day…” and, “Tall mountains, green valleys, the beauty that surrounds me, all of this makes me aware of the One who made it all.” Look around you and you’ll see God’s hand. Then you’ll sing, “I know that Jesus is well and alive today!”

1, March 30, 20171, March 31, 2017

How to Deepen/Strengthen Your Faith

Have you ever had the feeling that you’re not as spiritual as you’d like to be? Perhaps you’ve just felt like your walk with Christ wasn’t as good as it once was. Some may have even found themselves going through a time when they just didn’t care. As a Christian when you know that you could be more devoted, but your heart struggles with being close to God…what do you do? If we are true to ourselves, each of us has had times when our ‘love for Christ’ has grown cold or weak. Is there something we can do, some where we could turn? Scripture should always be our first approach, followed by (and accompanied with) prayer. But personally, when Satan poisons my heart with lies and interferes with my walk, I tend to turn to the psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. “In Christ Alone” (Keith Getty, 2007), “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” (Helen Lemmel, 1922), “Day by Day” (Caroline Berg, 1865) and “I Need Thee Every Hour” (Annie Hawks, 1872) are just a few of my ‘go to psalms’ in times of distress. But today let me encourage you to follow the thought of a song written in 1837 by John R. Wreford…

“When my love to Christ grows weak, (exactly what we’re talking about here) when for DEEPER faith I seek, then in thought (in your ‘mind’s eye’) I go to thee, (read, Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14:32-42 & Luke 22:39-46) Garden of Gethsemane!

There (in the garden) I walk amid the shades, while the lingering twilight fades, (it’s evening and the sun is going down) see that suffering, friendless One (can you see Him, in ‘your mind’s eye?’) weeping, praying there alone. (But what if I’ve fallen so far that even the sight of a man suffering and struggling doesn’t bother me? (Then read on…)

When my love for MAN grows weak, when for STRONGER faith I seek, (what can I do, where should I go ‘in my mind’s eye?’) Hill of Calvary! (go to the cross if you have trouble caring about mankind…that’s where Christ went! To the cross…) I go to the scenes of fear and woe. (Again, read the text, Matthew 27:33-54)

There (at the cross) behold His agony, suffered on the bitter tree; (look at the scripture, Mark 15:22-39 or Luke 23:33-47) see His anguish, see His faith (if you haven’t read the above passages, you’ll never over come the struggle of a wavering faith)…love triumphant still in death. (Now, what are you going to do?)

Then to life I turn again (away from the poetic imagery in your mind to real time), learning all the worth of pain (His death was for YOU), learning all the might that lies (a lesson we must all learn) in a full self-sacrifice. (where you give your life over to God. Remember, it’s not about you!)”

The answer, if you’re struggling in your walk with Christ, if you want to be have a more spiritual tone in your life…if you want to care again… stop living for yourself. We can be more devoted and closer to God, but we need to ‘learn the might that lies in a FULL self-sacrifice.’ He sacrificed Himself for you and me. Can you, will you, do that for others? When we do, we’ll deepen and strengthen our faith in God.

1, August 7, 20161, August 14, 2016

A Time of Transitions

In the summer of 2002 more than 30 high school freshman and sophomores along with several adult sponsors from Texas came to Colorado to conduct a Vacation Bible School. Though we didn’t know it at the time, that was the beginning of a relationship that would last for the rest of our lives. When the group came back the following year, the summer of 2003, they helped our family pack and move from the Windsor church of Christ to work and worship with the Waterview church of Christ in Richardson, Texas. Thirteen years later we find ourselves, again, at a point of transition. Words fail me to express how much the brothers and sisters at Waterview have meant to my family and me.

Few know that in the late spring of 2002, Jim Stigers called my father-in-law, Jim Knight for the sole purpose of finding a small congregation where the Waterview youth group might go to conduct a VBS. Their original plans had been to go to Nebraska, but due to some complications, the youth was without a mission point for the summer of 2002. My father-in-law, one of the leaders at the small, Colorado congregation, was glad to visit with his old high school friend and welcome the group to Colorado. Jim Stigers, one of the Waterview elders, read the following announcement, and perhaps there was no one was better suited to do so.

The following was announced on Sunday, July 24th:

“The future of Waterview church of Christ is bright! Jason Moon has just completed his first full year as the pulpit minister. Robert Oglesby, Robert Taylor, Warren Shepherd and Dustin Jones have forged a team that not only has welcomed Jason, but now Greg Parks into the ministerial service at Waterview. They work with the elders and deacons to set goals and objectives that reach heavenward…literally. Only the Lord knows how many families will continue to be blessed by Waterview church of Christ as they serve, grow and mature in Christ.

For the past 13 years, the Bruce family has been a part of the fabric of love and devotion, courage and faithfulness established by decades of faithful elders and solid preaching found here. In January 2015, Myron stepped away from full-time ministry but continued, on a part-time basis, striving to lead our hearts and minds toward a clearer, more focused worship to God. That has been and always will be his mission. But this morning, we need to inform you that the Bruce’s have announced that they will be moving from Plano and the Waterview church of Christ to live in Wichita Falls. He will continue to lead our Sunday morning song service until August 14^th, but then will be making the transition to Faith Village in Wichita Falls where they will continue to work and worship.

“In the spring of 2003, Vicki and I, with our three children (Logan…9, Emili…8 and Dillon…5) began a journey from the comfort of Colorado and the Windsor church of Christ, to the Dallas metro-plex joining Waterview as the Congregational Life Minister. We didn’t really know anyone, but over the years, have grown to love everyone. Now thirteen years later, we can’t begin to “Count Our Many Blessings.” The joy of raising our family to serve and worship God with this body of believers makes this day very difficult. To us, you are more than just a member at Waterview. You are, and forever will be, our brothers and sisters in Christ!

These next few weeks we will be packing up boxes and take pictures off the walls. But more importantly, we’ll be storing up the memories and reflecting on the years God has given us with you. Raising our children in the shadow of this congregation is something we will never forget! With a common love, we have grown close to each of you!

The old hymn writer said it best, “When we asunder part, it gives us inward pain; but we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again.” However, God’s word expresses our deepest emotions. In Numbers chapter 6, God spoke to Moses telling him to instruct his brother, Aaron, with the following: “Thus, you shall bless the sons of Israel. You shall say to them: ‘The Lord bless you, and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace!’.”

We love you and thank you for blessing our life!”

1, July 17, 20151, July 19, 2015

How Can I Be a Christian in a Corrupt Society…July 19th

What does it mean to say that something is corrupt? A warning on your computer screen that reads, “Corrupted File” will no doubt put a damper on your day. If something has been corrupted, the original has been compromised, damaged or destroyed. By definition, to be corrupt, there has been a negative impact that causes someone, or something, to be ‘dishonest, immoral or impure.’

But aren’t we as Christians called to be lights in darkness? How can I be a light in a dark place and not be subject to corruption? Wouldn’t it be best if I just kept to myself and left ‘well enough alone?’ The task is unmistakable. Christ called us to ‘go into all the world.’ Therefore we have an obligation to shine our light, but to keep ourselves ‘unstained by the world.’ (James 1:27) So how can a Christian keep from being corrupted? Join us on Sunday morning as we example our responsibility as Christians.

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

Sunday morning, July 12, 2015

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

“All Things Praise Thee” – 43

“All things praise Thee – Lord, may we!” Written not as a question, ‘May we praise you Lord?’, but as an exclamation, ‘May we praise God like the things that we sing about in this song. The earth, sea and sky. The silent night, the sun by day, those in ‘heaven’s high shrine,’ seraph and arch angel. We, too, are God’s creation…may we ever be praising Him!

“Doxology” – 6

Immediately after we sing, ‘Ever praising – Lord, may we!,’ our hearts continue the song of praise. “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.” For more than 300 years these words have stood the test of time, and for more than 450 years this tune has been resonating in our ears. Careful not to just sing the tune, but speak the words with understanding.

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

A quiet song of reflection as we consider our prayer to God. Consider this song as if written from the view point of Mary Magedalene during the early morning hours, John 20:1. Following Christ resurrection, she stands in the garden and we sing, “I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses…” Notice verse 3, ‘but He bids me go…His voice to me is calling.’ John 20:17 “Jesus said to her, ‘Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren…’“

“In Christ Alone” – no book

In order to keep ourselves free from corruption while living in this world, we must fully rely on Christ, and on Him alone. For it is in Christ alone, in Him, that we find our hope!

“I Am a Sheep” – 533

Perhaps one way we can stay free from corruption in this dark world of sin and death is to remember the words of this spiritual song. As we sing the chorus we’re reminded, “And when the wind blows He is my shelter! When I’m lost and alone He rescues me! And when the Lion comes (Christ’s return) He is my victory! Constantly watching over me.” That is how you keep from being corrupted by sin…stay in Christ!

“I Know that My Redeemer Lives” – 528

It’s one thing to say, “I know,” but what do you do when the world says, “no one can know”? As a believer we have faith, and in our faith…we know! So we sing a song of affirmation, echoing through the ages, “I know, I know that my Redeemer lives, I know, I know eternal life He gives. I know, I know that my Redeemer lives.’ How to keep yourself from a corrupt and perverse generation? Believe, obey, follow and KNOW the Redeemer.

“Purer in Heart, O God” – 671

This is the perfect invitation song as we consider how to keep ourselves from a corrupt society. We must have a purer heart! But will we ‘devote’ our lives completely to Him? Are we willing to confess our ‘secret sin,’ and ask Him to reign in our lives? When we do, if we will, then we’ll be avoiding the corruption of the world.

“How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts” – 432

“How shall the young secure their hearts and guard their lives from sin?” We sing the question and we might as well read the title of today’s lesson, “How can I be a Christian in a corrupt society?” The answer is right in front of you, God’s word will guide our youth (all of us) and support us throughout our days. We can still be God’s children in this corrupt world, as long as we don’t let the world corrupt us.

1, July 10, 2015

God Still Reigns…July 12th

An angry young man storms into the shop, slams his fist against the counter and shouts at the employee, ‘Who is in charge around here?’ With just a few words you know there is unrest and frustration. Someone has been offended and is looking for answers. To get ‘satisfaction,’ we need to know who is calling the shots. In 1952, while speaking to the National War College, President Truman referenced a sign he had on his desk which read, ‘The buck stops here!’ A statement reassuring the nation, “I’m in charge.”

But when the ‘law of the land’ clashes with ‘God’s perfect law of liberty’ (James 2:25), we are left with angry men shouting, ‘Who is in charge?’ In 1974, Leonard Smith penned the words to a song that gives us the answer to our question. “How lovely on the mountains are the feet of Him who brings good news. Announcing peace, proclaiming news of happiness, Our God reigns, our God reigns!” If you are wondering who is in charge of this life, and if you want to know Who has the answer to your questions, join us Sunday morning as we remember…God Still Reigns!

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

Sunday morning, July 12, 2015

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

“Come Thou, Almighty King” – 19

“Come Thou, Almighty King, help us Thy name to sing, help us to praise! Father all glorious, over all victorious, come and REIGN over us, Ancient of Days!” Do you see God as the One who reigns in your life? Can you trust that, ‘the buck stops’ with Him? When you do, then you’ll understand why His children long to see His sovereign majesty in glory. Where we will, for eternity, love and adore Him. (Which musically leads us to our next song…)

“O Come Let Us Adore Him” – 264

Many recognize this as the chorus to one of our ‘Christmas’ hymns. But today let me encourage you to sing it with ‘more understanding.’ This is a simple repeat of the cause for which we live, “O come let us adore Him…Christ the Lord!” Sometimes we can find a hymn of praise in the most basic of places.

“By Christ Redeemed” – 366

Breaking this hymn into two parts, we’ll sing verses 1-2 before the Lord’s Supper, then following the fruit of the vine we’ll close with verse 3. And yet for years I have sung this 3rd verse without knowing what I was singing. The message…“And thus that dark betrayal night with the last advent we unite, by one bright chain of loving rite, until He come.” We recognize ‘until He come’ from the words of Paul in I Corinthians 11:26, but what is the ‘last advent’ or the ‘loving rite?’ Understanding that an ‘advent’ is defined as ‘a coming’ and a rite is an act done continually, let’s try it again…”And because of that dark, betrayal night we are united knowing that He will come again (with the last advent). And as we continually, ritually (rite), keep the Lord’s Supper (the one bright chain of love), we keep it…until He come.”

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

Sung during the passing of the collection plate, this contemporary song reminds us that God reigns in our hearts. How often, how clearly does our adoration flow to the throne of God? Are we, as His children, constantly giving Him our praise? We would do well to remember that He is the Divine One who still reigns!

“Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place” – 398

Following the prayer, we’ll transition to this reminder that God is with us. Our God STILL REIGNS is in this place!

“The Love of God” – 122

A 100 year old song that resonates in our hearts, especially as we consider the chorus; “…the soul will glow like Jesus in His tender mercy, if the heart is made His dwelling place.” God isn’t looking to sit on an earthly throne. He is not running for office or looking to hold a seat in the senate. Our God doesn’t make His dwelling place Washington, D.C. But never forget that God Still Reigns. He reigns in heaven, and wants us to let Him reign in our lives. kneel at the cross

“Kneel at the Cross” – 945

With God as our King, He welcomes all who will come to Him. But before be can bow before the throne of God, we must first kneel at the cross. Through an acceptance of His death, burial and resurrection, we too die to ourselves and give Him reign over our lives.

“This World is Not My Home” – 957

Many value this world as home, and for the one who has nothing but this world… that would be a sad state. Yet for the child of God, we will live eternally, not in this world, but ‘up in glory land.’ If this world is what you desire, you’ll never know the glory of Christ in your heart. But when you seek ‘heaven’s door,’ and Christ lives in your heart, then you’ll know…God still reigns!

1, May 1, 20151, April 28, 2015

Hands Full of Clay…May 3rd

Have you ever watched a child with a fresh ball of Play-Doh? They’ll squish it in their fingers, roll it into logs and pat it into pancakes. For hours they’ll create shapes and mold images from their imagination. Perhaps it’s no wonder that we are creative from such an early age since we’ve been molded by our Creator. Shaped and made in His image (Genesis 1:26).

And for the believer, it’s not hard to see that we are nothing more than clay. Isaiah helps us see that clearly as we read from the 64th chapter; “But now, O Lord, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You are our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand.” Still, we must realize the difference between a child and our God. Our heavenly Father isn’t just playing with Play-Doh! Though He has molded His creation in His own image, we will ultimately choose our own shape. God is the Potter, but we are the ones who have “hands full of clay.”

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

Sunday morning, May 3, 2015

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

“Higher Ground” – no book

We recognize this old favorite, but there’s another way of singing the same words and the same notes. If you’ve never heard Ken Young’s version of this old time favorite, I hope you’ll enjoy it. Waterview, let’s begin our worship service with this hymn, singing with full volume! Together, we sing (and pray), “Lord lift me up and let me stand, by faith, on heaven’s tableland.”

“Have Thine Own Way Lord” – 552

An old spiritual song that speaks the message of this morning’s lesson…“Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way! Thou art (YOU are) the Potter, I am the clay…” But how receptive will we be to the molding process? We might continue to sing, but will we continue to do? “Mold me and make me after Thy will, while I am waiting, yielded and still.” We must be willing and we must be still if we are to be molded like the Lord desires.

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no book

A contemporary song that poetically walks us through the hours of Christ crucifixion. From the time ‘the Father turns His face away’ (Matt. 27:46), to the final words of Jesus, ‘I know that it is finished.’ (John 19:30) Would that we find the power of the message as we sing the truth…‘His wounds have paid my ransom.’

“Nearer My God to Thee” – 684

Just singing the first verse after the Lord’s Supper we remember ‘His will’ is found in Him. “Nearer my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee! E’en tho it be a cross (trials) that raiseth me…(Translated: Even though I will go through difficult times…) Still all my song shall be, Nearer my God to Thee. Nearer my God to Thee, nearer to Thee.” (…I still want to be near God) And the nearer we are to God, the easier it’ll be to mold the clay.

“Let Him Have His Way with Thee” – no book

You and I have a choice as to how we’ll live this life. We can follow God or we can follow the world. So how can we sing this old spiritual song about ‘letting Him have His way?’ If it’s ‘my way or the highway’ what role does God have to play? To start, notice the message of the song is a question, “Would you live for Jesus…would you walk with Him…would you let Him bear your burden…” There are actually 9 questions asked in this short, three verse song. If you answer ‘yes,’ then…”Let Him have His way with Thee.” But why? Because, “His power can make you what you ought (if you’ve been purchased by the blood of Christ, you ought is translated ‘you are obligated’) to be. His blood can cleanse your heart and make you free. His love can fill your soul, and you will see (that) it was best to let Him has His way with thee.”

“Take My Life” – 664

As our invitation song, you’ll find the sacrifice we make hits all levels. Verse one begins with 1) my life and 2) my days (even moments). Verse two includes 3) my hands and 4) my feet. Verse three adds 5) my voice and 6) my lips. If it wasn’t already personal enough, verse four adds 7) my money (silver and my gold) and 8) my intelligence. And to top off this list of what is included from our life…9) my love and 10) myself. Giving those things to God is placing ourselves in the Potter’s hand! Potters hands

“Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” – 679

Fully trusting in God is sweet! Not like sugar, or the acceptable ‘sweet!’ The proper definition for this is cherished…What a cherished life we live when we trust in Jesus. But to have that ‘sweetness,’ we need to follow verse three; “Yes, it is sweet (cherished) to trust in Jesus, just from sin and self to cease…” That is how we truly give over to the Potter, molding our lives with hands full of clay.

1, April 24, 20151, April 25, 2015

Do You Believe in the Church?…April 26th

Have you heard the phrase, ‘Talk is cheap?’ Simply translated, ‘actions speak louder than words.’ On a personal level, if I tell you to call whenever you need something, but refuse to answer your call when it’s not convenient (like say around 3:00 in the morning) isn’t that just cheap talk? In the same manner, if we proudly claim our church family on Sunday morning, but don’t associate with our brothers and sisters on Friday night, our actions are speaking loud and clear? Or, do we believe enough in the church that we’ll sacrifice our time for them? We might say (and sing) all the right words, but how would our life look if we really ‘believed’ in the church Christ died for?

The true test of how much you believe in something can’t be found in your words alone. What we believe in (value) can be seen in how much time, energy and interest we give to its success. In short, how much you trust in something is determined by how much you are willing to sacrifice for it. How much did God ‘believe’ in the church? Enough to have His Son die for her! Each of us would do well to take a look at how much time and energy (yes, even money) we are willing to give to this same church. Then ask the question, ‘How much do I believe in the church?’

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

Sunday morning, April 26, 2015

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

“For the Beauty of the Earth” – 67

What a great opening for Sunday morning’s service. As you consider the glory of God, what reasons can you find to praise Him? In 1864, Folliot Pierpoint offered these ideas. For the beauty of the earth, the sky, and each hour of the day or night; for the church that continually ‘lifteth holy hands.’ (See I Timothy 2:8) If for no other reason, these things call on us to say, “Lord of all, to Thee we raise this our sacrifice of praise.”

“Doxology” – 66

“Praise God from Whom all blessing flow!” The Old Hundreth dates back to the mid 1500’s with words that were penned in the early 1700’s. How could something so ancient still be sung and recognized here in the 21st Century? Possibly because some things never change. Things like…God will always be praised!

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

Let’s sing this song before the Lord’s Supper and break it up into three different sections. Verse 1 & 3, verse 2 & 4 and conclude with verse 5. Notice the power of the message. “When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died, my riches gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. See, from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down. Did e’er (ever) such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown?” Then verses 2 and 4, “Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, save in the death of Christ, my Lord. All the vain things that charm me most I sacrifice them to His blood. His dying crimson, like a robe, spreads o’er (over) His body on the tree. Then am I dead to all the globe, and all the globe is dead to me.” Thanks to Isaac Watts we can survey the cross of Christ more vividly as we consider our Savior’s sacrifice for the church.

“I Believe in Jesus” – 356

Do you believe in the church Jesus died for? If you don’t believe His word, you’ll never be able to believe in Him. This spiritual song has one scriptural reference after another. From the day He stilled the storm on the Sea of Galilee to the morning He woke Lazarus from His deathly slumber. Do you believe the blind could see and the deaf could hear? Do you believe He died on Mount Calvary only to leave behind an empty tomb? Do you believe He’s the answer…do you believe in His church?

“The Church’s One Foundation” – no book

Blending the words from Samuel Stone in 1886 with the musically arrangement of George Webb in 1837, we have an all-time favorite when it comes to describing the Bride of Christ, the Lord’s church. “The church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord. She (the church) is His new creation, by water (baptism) and the word (the gospel of salvation). From heaven He came and sought her to be His holy bride, with His own blood He bought her and for her life He died.”

“Live for Jesus” – 594

Perhaps this isn’t your typical invitation song, but what a great call for the church to live a life for Christ. To be His disciple and stop wandering in sin. Living for Jesus means following His example and giving Him all you have.

“How Firm a Foundation” – 457

It’s been said if you really mean it, repeat it. And if you really want to get your point across, say it a third time. I’ve heard it said if you want to have someone over for supper and they turn you down, ask them again. If they still say no, ask them a third time. Perhaps three is a charm. Whether or not that was on the mind of the one who penned this hymn, repetition is utilized in the last verse of this song. But have you noticed Who is speaking? “The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose (rest), I will not, I will not desert to his foes. That soul, tho all hell should endeavor (try) to shake, I’ll never, no never, no never forsake.” God believes in the church and He will not turn us out. But what about you, do you believe in the church?

1, April 10, 20151, April 10, 2015

Quotes for Life…April 12th

We all have dilemmas in life, and yet we’re unique in every aspect. A struggle or temptation for one might not be a struggle for another. Even as we experience similar difficulties, we often respond differently. Our comfort is knowing that in God’s word each of us can find the answers we need. Perhaps we could say that there are three dilemmas we all face in life. Three struggles that are common to many Christians today. Through inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Luke records three quotes that when heeded, will help provide us with the answers to these dilemmas.
1) When you get discouraged, remember Luke 1:37 – nothing is impossible with God.
2) When you don’t know who to listen to, remember Luke 9:35 – listen to Jesus…and
3) When materialism grabs you, remember Acts 20:35 – it is better to give than receive.

Sunday morning we’ll welcome the president of Oklahoma Christian University, Dr. John deStiguer to Waterview church of Christ as he shares some thoughts from God’s word. Do you struggle with discouragement? Is it difficult at times to know ‘who’ to listen to? Have you ever fought the spiritual vs. material battle? Join us on Sunday as we consider three “Quotes For Life.”

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

Sunday morning, April 12, 2015

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

“Come Thou Almighty King” – 19

Written over 250 years ago, this hymn of praise is a call for the Almighty to ‘come’ and help us sing. To come and help us praise the Father, ‘all glorious.’ A call for ‘Thou Incarnate Word’ (Jesus) to attend to our prayer. May we focus our songs of praise to our Father, through His Son.

“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349

If we were to read the scripture and literally apply the word, this song would have a different name. Matthew 26:53 states, He could have called 12 legions of angels. So perhaps a better title would be “Seventy-two Thousand Angels.” Never forget, Christ was (is) in control and we are all indebted to His sacrifice. They did bind the hands of Jesus and they did lead Him through the streets…but He allowed it. Take some time to remember how they treated the ‘suffering’ Savior…think about Him as you partake of the Lord’s Supper.

“Worthy is the Lamb” – no book

Taken from the musical work of William Bradbury’s “Just As I Am,” this song takes the words of Revelation 5:9…“Worthy are You to take the book and break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” And a fitting conclusion to this song, “May Your kingdom reign on earth with praise. Oh worthy are You Lord, my Lord.”

“Freely, Freely” – 635

While we open our wallets, let’s open our voices and sing about giving freely. Not only do we share our money, we need to be sharing His love with those we meet. And Jesus Himself told the disciples, “Freely you received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8

“He Is Able to Deliver Thee” – no book

It is the best theme (story or topic) ever told…how proud are you to proclaim this story? Three men were not only unashamed of serving their God, they faced certain death by doing so. Knowing they would be ‘tossed in a blazing fire,’ they responded; “…our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king.” Daniel 3:17 How willing are you to take such a stand for your faith in God?

“There’s a Fountain Free” – 909

“There’s a fountain free, it is for you and me. Let us haste (hurry), O haste to it’s brink. It is the fount(ain) of love from the Source above, and He bids (calls) us all freely drink.” So…how thirsty are you? If indeed you are thirsty, ‘will you come?’

“I’ll Be Listening” – 988

Where will you be when the Savior calls? Will you have a heart that is right? Let’s keep our ears open to His calling. Keep His will ever in our hearts so when He returns…we’ll be listening for the calling of our name.

1, March 14, 20151, March 14, 2015

The Ancient Future…Mar. 15th

With the day coming to a close and the sun beginning to set on the West Texas horizon, I remember the confrontation quite well. It was pretty cut and dry from my view of point, my brother called me a baboon and I was going to ‘let him have it.’ The only problem, mom was watching us from the house. She didn’t hear my brother’s words, but she saw my actions. Needless to say, we both got a ‘whippin’ for misbehaving. And do you know what I learned from that experience? To fight my brother out of mom’s sight…not really. What I actually learned was simple, my actions have consequences. We can learn a lot by examining our past.

Teams will watch game films of their rival to learn their weaknesses. And children will remember the swat long after the sting is gone. The experiences of the past can have a vast effect on our future. Surely the Israelite nation remembered God’s powerful hand as it fell upon the Egyptians and their army. Simply put, what we remember of our past can have a huge impact our future. Remember the ‘ancient’ past and let those memories guide your tomorrow. Yesterday can serve as a tool for learning to give us insight and understanding. Only then will we be better prepared to grasp the future.

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

Sunday morning, March 15, 2015

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

“To God Be the Glory” – 4

“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the earth hear His voice.” Are you listening to the voice of God as you read His word? Are ancient words you aware of His presence all around you? “Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done. And great our rejoicing through Jesus His Son.”

“Ancient Words” – no book

God’s words are holy words…and they have been long preserved, but why? How can ‘ancient words’ be of any importance to a modern, technologically sound culture? The answer is found as you continue the song; “…for our walk in this world.” Do the words of God guide you today? Will you find them to be ‘ever true?’ Maybe you should ask if they are changing me…and changing you.

“Rock of Ages” – 454

An old hymn that dates back almost 250 years is still as true as ever. Notice the old English and capture the meaning of the message; “Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee. (2 Samuel 22:3) Let the water and the blood from Thy riven side which flowed (John 19:34) be of sin the double cure, cleanse me from it’s guilt and power.” Christ death, confirmed with the tip of the spear held in the centurion hand, provided the cure for all mankind. The cure from both the guilt of sin and the power of sin. That’s the double cure…

“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll review the ‘story of Jesus.’ Obviously recognizing His birth, His ministry and ultimately His death and resurrection. Notice the third verse, “Tell of the cross where they nailed Him, writhing in anguish and pain. Tell of the grave where they laid Him, tell how He liveth again!” If this story is indeed precious to you, every word will be written on your heart! Have you thought how well you are doing that? If we want to a glimpse into our future, we’d better understand what brings us here today!

“Great is Thy Faithfulness” – 57

How faithful is God to His people? Can we count on Him to do what He has said He would do? If you have any questions in your mind as to whether or not God cares, and if He will be faithful to what He has promised, look no further than the second verse of this hymn. “Summer and winter and spring time and harvest; sun, moon and stars in their courses above join with all nature in manifold witness to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.” Even the world around us speaks to the faithfulness of God. The evidences are pretty convincing and still, so many ignore the signs and plunge headlong into a future that is void of all godliness.

“Blessed Be the Lord God Almighty” – 72

Before the lesson we sing to God this new, contemporary song of praise. It has the elements of a prayer as we sing, “Father in heaven, how we love You. We lift Your name in all the earth. May Your kingdom be established in our praises as Your people declare Your might works. Blessed be the Lord God Almighty!” Considering our future, it’s a good thing we remember that He does reign forevermore!

“All Things Are Ready” – no book

Are you ready? When you think about your future and what tomorrow holds…are you ready? We remember the ‘invitation’ as we sing this old spiritual song, “All things are ready, come to the feast. Come, for the door is open wide. A place of honor is reserved for you at the Master’s side.” Talk about a promising future! If only you and I will not only hear the invitation, but if we will come…

“Standing on the Promises” – 452

Some might ask you where you stand on a particular topic. Do you have a conviction as to what you believe? As you sing this closing song you are making it pretty clear where you stand, “I’m standing on the promises of God!” You see, where you stand and what you believe, will help determine what will you do. And decisions are made from what we believe. Could it be that the things from our past shape our beliefs and daily decisions? Because you know the decisions you make today will ultimately determine your future. So perhaps our past is actually our future…our ‘ancient future.’

1, February 20, 20151, February 21, 2015

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 Jesus 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’ 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!”