Category: Spiritual faithfulness

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Questions About Prayer…Dec. 14th

man prayingHow important is prayer in your life? Do you consider it something to ‘get you through,’ or is it a daily part of your life? Maybe your prayer consist of ‘thank You!’ or ‘please help me…’ But should there be more to my prayers? As we read God’s word, we find time and time again the emphasis that is put on prayer. “…He hears the prayer of the righteous.” Proverbs 15:29 or as Christ said, “ask in prayer, believing…” Matthew 21:22. And certainly you’ll remember the words of Paul as he wrote to the Thessalonian church, “…pray without ceasing.” (I Thess. 5:17)

Prayer is the conduit of communication with our Creator, Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God.” And you might remember the old hymn (2nd verse), “The Father speaketh in His Word, He talks no other way! And to converse with Him, our Lord, we must take time to pray!” But what is prayer? How do I do it? Is there a certain manner in which I should pray? Some have many questions and can’t seem to know ‘how to do it,’ so they simply don’t pray. That should never be an option. Sunday morning we’ll consider praying and how we pray as we look at some “Questions about Prayer.”

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

Sunday morning, December 14, 2014

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

“We Praise Thee, O God” – 2

A favorite among many as we begin our worship together. Perhaps it’s the resounding chorus as we sing “Hallelujah! Thine the glory!” or maybe it’s the way the music builds up within each verse. Whatever you find that encourages you, either with this song or another, be sure you give God the glory and open your hearts to give Him praise!

“Lead Me to Calvary” – 332

As we think about the Lord’s Supper we remember Calvary and Christ’s death on the cross. Verses that recall the ‘thorn-crowned brow,’ and the tomb guarded by the angels while Christ slept, rather than soldiers thinking He was dead. Even the reference to Mary coming to the ’empty tomb’ is found in this song. But notice how the chorus begins with a plea for each of us to remember the gospel, that is Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. “Lest I forget Gethsemane; Lest I forget Thine agony; lest I forget Thy love for me…” Why do we partake of the Lord’s Supper on the first day of every week? For many…lest I forget!

“On  Bended Knee” – 791man praying

How do you come before God? Are you humbled and repentant, or boastful and proud? If you have any question as to your pretense or pose, maybe you should consider singing this with us… “On bended knee I come, with a humble heart I come, bowing down before Your holy throne…”

“Father, Hear the Prayer We Offer” – 777

Written more than 150 years ago, this timeless, classical hymn is a prayer asking for God to hear our prayer. But what exactly are we saying while we sing? “Father, hear the prayer we offer: Nor for ease that prayer shall be, (I’m not looking for an easy life) but for strength that we may ever live our lives courageously. (Do we really believe that?) vs. 2 Not forever by still waters would we idly, quiet stay; but would smite the living fountains (a reference from Exodus 17:6 when God commanded Moses to strike the rock and bring forth water) from the rocks along our way.” Now notice our ‘prayer’ in the last verse … are you prepared to sing this one? “Let our path be dark or dreary, storm or sunshine be our share; may our souls in hope unweary make Thy work our ceaseless prayer. AMEN!”

“Did You Think to Pray?” – 848

Before you did anything else this morning, did you pray? Is it important enough to you that you start each day with prayer? We have questions about prayer and perhaps that’s why we don’t pray as often as we should. But if we would just remember the words of this spiritual song it might help us in our prayer life; “O how praying rest the weary! Prayer will change the night to day. So when life seems dark and dreary…don’t forget to pray.”

“God is the Fountain Whence” – 117

Before the lesson we’re reminded of the power in prayer. God is the fountain from where (whence) we receive our blessings. Ten-thousand blessings (a poetic gesture) flow from our God. As you sing this song you’ll be reminded that your life, your health, your friends and everything good that you have is in direct correlation to God. Since He has given us what we have…do we pray?

“Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” – 391

Our invitation song is one that calls us to seek Jesus’ favor and to do His will. We sing of our blessed Jesus and how we are to be ready to turn to Him, but will we let Him lead us like a shepherd? Will we allow Him to be the Guardian of our way? “Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus, hear, O hear us when we pray.”

“I Will Pray” – 840

A wonderful progression is found in this old hymn; “Father, in the morning unto Thee I pray…At the busy noon-tide, pressed with work and care…When the evening shadows chase away the light (throughout my day)…I will pray!” We might have questions about prayer, how it works, what to say, is God listening; but, let each of us resolve that from life’s glad morning till the shadowy evening, I will pray!

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O Come, All Ye Faithful

“For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross.” Colossians 1:19, 20

The hope of all humanity comes in the form of a newborn baby as Jesus was born into this world O Come..some 2000 years ago. Not knowing the date, we have settled on December for a number of reasons. But why focus on the birth when the death of Christ, the shedding of His blood, is what brings us salvation? Perhaps it’s the warmth and nostalgia of a newborn baby, instead of the cold-hearted, beating found in a crucifixion. Whatever the reason, it is the birth of Christ that draws this country closer together more than any other time.

And hymns like this one call each of us to Christ as we… behold Him, worship Him and adore Him. Sometimes called by its Latin name, Adeste Fideles, this song is credited to John Francis Wade in 1751. His song of praise invites all of heaven and earth to greet the newborn king. “O come all ye faithful,” is a call for those here on earth who believe and are faithful to God’s word to worship Him. “Sing choirs of angels,” is a call for the heavenly beings to join in the praise.

But will we adore Him and worship Him only for a season? Would that our lives reflect this worship all year long. “O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant. O come, ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, born the King of angels; O come let us adore Him…Christ the Lord!”

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You Can’t Fool Me…Dec. 7th

Perhaps you’ve heard the saying; “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” Where it originated isn’t known, but the sentiment is clear, ‘I might be tricked once, but it won’t happen again.’ At the same time there are those who say, ‘You can’t fool me…I know better.’ But some believe a truth not knowing they’ve been fooled. What kind of scoundrel would play such a dirty trick? No wonder we say, “…shame on you.”

But could we be guilty of fooling others as well as fooling ourselves? We look in the mirror and man in the mirrorsee what we want to see, not what is really there. We talk ourselves into something that’s not. Could it be that we tell ourselves “I’m OK,” when deep down we know we’re not? Are we doing the very thing we consider a ‘dirty trick?’ This Sunday morning might be a good time to consider your stance if you’re one to say, “You Can’t Fool Me!”

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

Sunday morning, December 7, 2014

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

“Living By Faith” – 560

Written almost 100 years ago, this spiritual song reiterates the message found in Hebrews chapter 11, “All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance…” (NIV) In our own Christian walk, how are we doing? Do we live by faith, or do we want substantiated confirmation? And yet that’s exactly how the Hebrew writer began this chapter, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Concerned about being fooled? God will never fail us, never deceive us and never fool us. Therefore we can say, “I care not today what the morrow may bring, if shadow or sunshine or rain. (why…because) The Lord I know ruleth over everything, and all of my worry is vain. I’m Living by faith in Jesus above…”

“Sweet Hour of Prayer” – 827

How do you deal with ‘seasons of distress and grief?’ Do you have a burning desire for Christ to return? Do you ‘hasten’ to God in prayer? W. W. Walford wrote about the power of prayer, and this morning we’ll sing about it. What a great escape from the ‘tempter’s snare,’ and those who believe in Him will ‘cast on Him their every care, and wait for Him…sweet hour of prayer.’ How foolish would we be to reject this hour of prayer.

“A Hill Called Mount Calvary” – 373

This song is new to some, but it has been around for almost 50 years. Made famous by the Gaither family, the message is one we should believe in. Some might say you are being fooled if you believe in a resurrection. And though I might be fooled by a lot of things, there is one thing I know and I believe with all my heart. “I believe in a hill called Mount Calvary. I’ll believe whatever the cost; and when time has surrender and earth is no more, I’ll still cling to the old rugged cross.” The video begins with the 3rd verse…you’ll want to listen to this one!

“Father, I Adore You” – 53

A simple hymn that is sung to our God and Father. As we sing, notice the unified message.  “Father, we adore You, lay our lives before You, How we love You.” It’s easy to sing as a group, but will you, can you, sing it in the first person? “Father, I adore You, lay my life before You, How I love You!”

“Open Our Eyes, Lord” – 766

While the collection plate is being passed we’ll ask our Father for a blessing. In this simple hymn we sing, “Open our eyes, Lord we want to see Jesus, to reach out and touch Him, and say that we love Him. Open our ears, Lord and help us to listen…” Don’t be fooled into thinking God isn’t involved in your life. He’s alive and well and listening to your pleas!

“He Leadeth Me” – 410

If you’re concerned about being fooled, your best bet is to take a look at who is leading you. What are they telling you and where are they going? For that matter…what are you telling yourself? Before Sunday morning’s lesson we’ll sing about the One who leads us, it is ‘God’s hand that leadeth me.’ But before you think that’s all there is to it, finish the chorus. “His faithful follower I would be…” He’ll never fool you if you’ll follow Him.Unconditional-Surrender-Maxwell-JM
“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662

Question; how much is all? We sing a beautiful song of surrender, but will you give up everything for Him? Think about what you’ll be singing, “All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give. I will ever love and trust Him in His presence daily live…” If we sing all three verses and the chorus with each verse, you’ll be saying “ALL” seventeen times (23 if you count the echo). Will do, do you, surrender your all to Him…or are you just fooling yourself into thinking you do?

“A Common Love” – 705

This ‘youth song’ is taken from the book of John as Jesus spoke to His disciples, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another…” Take note of the emphasis in this spiritual song, “A common love…a common gift…a common bond…a common strength…a common hope…a common joy.” Don’t be deceived, without the truth of God’s Word, we’ll never begin to find strength or hope in this sinful world.

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The Christian’s Bumper Sticker…Nov. 30th

Have you ever driven up behind someone, noticed they have a bumper sticker only you’re not quite able to read it? We squint and strain to see if there is some nugget of value. Or maybe that car in front of you doesn’t have ‘a’ bumper sticker, they’ve got dozens. We get an idea of Bumper-Stickersthe person driving the car by the message or the image on the sticker. But if the Christian were to have a ‘bumper sticker,’ what would it look like, what would it say? Would those who come up to you have to squint to read it or would our non-verbals speak loud and clear? And then…what message would we be sending?

If we’re honest, we know there are some bumper stickers that can give us a laugh, but at the same time, there are some that are worthless. Their message is not worthy of repeating. But as children of God, what would our bumper sticker say? Would it bring a smile to the reader’s face or cause him to shake his head? Would anyone be able to read it? This Sunday morning we’re on the rebound from being stuffed from Thanksgiving. So as you get back into the regular routine, join us as we look at “the Christian’s Bumper Sticker.”


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

Sunday morning, November 30, 2014

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

“Redeemed” – 458

This is one of our spiritual songs that carries a lot of energy. Each statement is repeated as we sing of our redemption. “Sweet is the song I’m singing today, I’m redeemed! I’m redeemed!” Not to be mistaken with the hymn by Fanny J. Crosby, this song was penned almost 100 years ago, almost 35 years after Crosby’s “Redeemed.” Maybe as Christians this could be one of our bumper stickers. Letting the world know we’re REDEEMED!redeemed

“Higher Ground” – no book

What a grand message we send when we sing, “I’m pressing on the upward way, new heights I’m gaining every day. Still praying as I onward bound, ‘Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.’..” People will ‘read’ your life and know if you’re comfortable here in this life or if you’re looking for something better. Let your message (your bumper sticker) speak loud and clear,“My heart has no desire to stay…”

“Worthy is the Lamb” – no book

Taken from the book of Revelation and blended with the tune from “Just as I am,” we come away with a moving hymn we’ll sing before the Lord’s Supper. ‘You alone are worthy to open its seals, because You were slain and gave Your blood. You purchased every man for God. Oh, worthy is the Lamb, the Lamb…’ and then we read the text. “You are worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, because You were slain, and with Your blood You purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.” Revelation 5:9

“When Peace Like a River” – 490

The tragic drowning of Horatio Spafford’s daughters motivated him to write this spiritual song of encouragement and strength. Whether or not our life is peaceful like a calm river, or turbulent like the waves of the sea, God’s children can say with confidence, “it’s OK, I have peace in Christ.” But many have missed this verse that is omitted from so many hymnals. Notice the striking message which would make for a great Christian bumper sticker,“Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blessed assurance control. That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate and has shed His own blood for my soul.” Maybe we should have bumper stickers that say, “It is well with my soul.”

“A Beautiful Life” – 570

What makes a life ‘beautiful?’ Is it the things we accomplish or the legacy we leave? Could it be the things we do or the things we say? Is a beautiful life “all of the above?” As we sing this song before our lesson, we’re singing about how we treat one another. How we act toward strangers and how, ultimately, we represent God. You might say a beautiful life is reflected in the entirety of our being. We sing about doing a golden deed, and striving to help some troubled soul. We’ll continue our song as we focus on a good and pure life that lends a helping hand. Does your life look beautiful to others or, more importantly, does your life honor God? Or do we just have good bumper stickers?

“I Know Whom I Have Believed” – 524

Not your typical invitation song, but notice the message we sing; “I know not how the Spirit moves, convincing men of sin, revealing Jesus thru the Word, creating faith in Him.” We sing it and we wear it…but do we truly believe it?

“Redeemed” – 514

Perhaps this is the best bumper sticker the Christian could boast “REDEEMED, how I love to proclaim it! Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, Redeemed thru His infinite mercy, His child and forever, I am!” Singing we announce that we love to proclaim our redemption. We sing about being ‘happy in Jesus’ and there’s no language to express our excitement. But ask yourself, when you’re alone at work with only your non-believing co-workers around…can they still read your bumper sticker?

 

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Why Come Together?

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing;
He chastens and hastens His will to make known.norman rockwell thanksgiving
The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing.
Sing praises to His Name; He forgets not His own.

Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;
So from the beginning the fight we were winning;
Thou, Lord, were at our side, all glory be Thine!

We all do extol Thee, Thou Leader triumphant,
And pray that Thou still our Defender will be.
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation;
Thy Name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!

This old hymn finds it’s beginning in the late 1500’s as the Dutch celebrated their victory in the war of liberation from the Spanish. It stands the test of time when we consider the message of deliverance. From the time it first came into print (1626) in a collection of patriotic hymns, to the early years of World War I, this song of prayer calls on Jehovah God to protect and defend His people.

Since the mid-1930’s, thousands across the country have sung this song of thanks in their worship services prior to Thanksgiving Day. Families gather together on this National Holiday to say thanks. But to WHOM and WHY have we done this year after year after year?  Do we remember why ‘we gather together?’ As the Dutch sang years ago, ‘we gather together to ask the Lord’s blessings.’ Never forget that the blessings we enjoy come from the hand of God. It is from His compassion and grace that we enjoy what we have been given. And therefore…we gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing!

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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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A Reunion of Veterans…Nov. 9th

2014 posterWe are blessed to live in a country that honors those who served to protect and defend our nation’s freedom. Regardless of the branch of service, men and women have been fighting for American’s interest for decades, laying down their life if necessary believing in the cause! And every year on the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month we stand tall to honor our veterans. Many of us, whether we have served or not, come together as a sort of reunion to thank these veterans and remember their service.

But consider for a moment the soldiers who stand and defend (or have stood and defended) the cause of Christ? They lived and died serving the King of Kings. Hebrews chapter 11 gives us a brief list of those ‘heroes’ of old, the veterans who faithfully served in the Lord’s Army. Today, you and I are still fighting the battle between good and evil (Ephesians 6:10-20). As we strive to be faithful soldier’s of the cross let’s look forward to our reunion. Next time one of our soldiers comes home, welcome them with open arms, and in the same way we anticipate ‘A Reunion of Veterans.’

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

Sunday morning, November 9, 2014

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

“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus” – 648

Are you willing to take a stand for what you believe in? When someone comes asking if you believe in the Bible, are you taking a stand for truth or are you not too sure? Some might think this song is intended to be sung standing up, a little like ‘on your feet soldier.’ But whether you’re sitting or standing, you soldiers of the crosssing about your decision. Will you stand up for what is right, or are you content to sit back and see what happens. We begin this morning singing, “…Ye soldiers of the cross; lift high His royal banner, it must not suffer loss.” Before we end this service we’ll sing again of the royal banner and our responsibility to ‘march on.’

“Am I a Soldier of the Cross” – no book

This old spiritual song asks a basic question. It’s a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question that only you can answer. Are you a soldier of the cross, a follower of the Lamb? The one who says “YES” knows the answer to this question as we sing; “Is this vile (wicked) world a friend to grace to help you on to God?”  The world is no friend to God, but soldiers of the cross know this … where are our friendships? Are we friends with the world, or are we soldier’s of the cross?

“Freely, Freely” – 635

We read in Matthew chapter 10 the words of Jesus as He commissioned His followers, “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give.” God forgave us of our sins and adopted us as His children. Our cost for this adoption was nothing. From His own hand we have freely received the hope of eternal life. Will we give that same hope away to a lost and dying world? Soldiers often do more than fight, we also free the oppressed. “Freely you have received, freely, freely give!”

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” – 749

What a great thought of assurance for any soldier to know the battle is over. To hear the news…we’ve won! In Christ we know that to be true and so together we sing this song before our lesson; “In heavenly armor we’ll enter the land, the battle belongs to the Lord! No weapon that’s fashioned against us will stand, the battle belongs to the Lord. And we sing…Glory, Honor, Power and Strength to the Lord…”

“I Am Coming, Lord” – 923

As we offer the invitation, thinking about the reunion of God’s veterans, we offer a plea to those who have not yet joined the fight. Standing on the outside looking in, never knowing the joy of serving in the Kingdom, many will leave this life unaware of a reunion of God’s veterans. Or perhaps a soldier has gone AWOL and deserted his post, it’s never too late to come back. It is Jesus who ‘calls me on to perfect faith and love, to perfect hope and peace and trust, for earth and heaven above.’ This may be the time for you to say, “I am coming, Lord!”

“Lamb of God” – 176

One of the last things we’ll do this morning is offer the Lord’s Supper. Whether it’s early in the worship service or held back to the end, we’ll remember our Lord’s death burial and resurrection this morning as we sing about the Lamb of God. Follow the thought found in the second verse of this song, ‘Your gift of love they crucified, they laughed and scorned Him as He died, the humble King they named a fraud and sacrificed the Lamb of God.’ Turn your mind to Lamb and remember His sacrifice.

“There’s a Royal Banner” – 627

Just as we began our worship time together singing about His banner, we’ll close lifting high the royal banner. Perhaps the thing we should come away with as we sing this closing song is the fact that God’s soldiers are ‘marching on!’ Soldiers of the cross eagerly anticipate the resurrection day, and in so doing we count everything but loss. Live your life looking forward to a Reunion of Veterans.

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They Are New Every Morning…Part II

Continuing the thought from Lamentations, we’ll look again at Jeremiah the prophet as he spoke about God’s mercies, “…they are new every morning.” When times are difficult and we can’t seem to see any hope, what is our response? Do we fall into despair or do we reach for higher, brighter days?

We have a tendency to question God’s rule. We, like Job, have questions and seek to understand God’s providence. If we were to stand before God, can we truly expect anything less than what He said to Job? As God spoke, He asked creations touchJob, “Have you ever in your life commanded the morning, and caused the dawn to know its place…?” The obvious answer is ‘no,’ we have no control over this world, the sunrise, the sunset, the sunshine or the rain. God is the Creator, and this is His world. So rather than question His work, we should take comfort in knowing He rules this earth and guards His people. The Creator of the universe, the One who ‘commands the morning’ is also our refuge and strength (Psalm 46). And even though ‘the earth should change, and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea’ children of God have no reason to fear. We know, as His creation, that we have a promise, “God is in the midst of her (His people), she will not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns…” Psalm 46:5. The psalmist is literally telling us that God will help His people at the turning of the morning. Could there be any greater comfort in knowing that the Maker of heaven and earth watches over His people at the dawning of each day? Though we might not have blue skies every morning, we know Who controls those skies. With that knowledge we have to reflect upon our attitude. What will we do when dark clouds gather? How will we deal with the devastating storms that strike our land? Will we take them in stride anticipating a new tomorrow, or will we look to place blame, bemoaning our current state of affairs? Ken Young once penned the words to a contemporary song entitled, Richly Blest. Within that message there is a thought that all Christians should champion. Throughout our days, regardless of our circumstances, whether things are good or bad, my God blesses me!

“Bluest skies, cloudy day, whether it’s good or bad that tends to come my way. From the highest hill or deepest valley I will claim His rest, for the One who loves me makes me richly blest.”

And just in case we come away thinking we have no responsibility in these ‘turning days,’ we must never forget God’s word as He spoke to His people in Deuteronomy 23. “Since the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp to deliver you and to defeat your enemies before you, therefore your camp must be holy; and He must not see anything indecent among you or He will turn away from you.” When God looks into our lives, what does He see? Is our camp filled with things of this world or are we striving to keep our lives holy, as He is holy? God is with His people at the turning of the day, but only we will determine if we are among His people, walking as children of Light. Consider all the more before the crossthe words of Paul as he wrote to the church in Ephesus, “…there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or course jesting, which are not fitting…Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience…walk as children of Light.” Ephesians 5:4-8. How can we expect to be richly blest if we harbor worldly behaviors? If our words and actions resemble the world, we will continue to live in darkness.
Though we may not know what tomorrow holds, we know who holds tomorrow. We have hope in what we cannot see; “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1. We can find assurance in a brighter tomorrow even when today looks awfully dark. On this earth we’re never guaranteed another dawn, nor do we have assurance tomorrow will be sunny. But by maintaining our faith in Him and following His word, we have confidence in knowing…The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. As a matter of fact…they are new every morning!
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Pumpkin Patch…

This time of year we not only feel the cool changes in the temperature, but we see the beautiful splash 125of autumn all around us. Perhaps nothing says ‘fall’ more than the collection taken from the pumpkin patch. Here’s an interesting connection a friend of mine shared that I couldn’t help but pass on to you. Enjoy the fall temperatures, the wonderful colors and the pumpkins from the pumpkin patch!

 

How is being a Christian like being a pumpkin?
Consider this idea for starters…

“God picks you up from the patch, (I Peter 2:9) brings you in and washes all the dirt off of you. (I Peter 3:21) Then He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. smiling pumpkin(Matthew 23:27) He removes the seeds of doubt, (James 1:6) hate, (I John 2:11) greed, (Luke 11:39) etc…and then He carves you a new smiling face. Finally He put His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see.” (II Corinthians 4:6-10)

 

Or it could read like this…

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” “Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you – not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience – through the resurrection of Jesus Christ…” At the same time, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” But remember, “…the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” and “the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in darkness…” So therefore, “…the Lord said to him, ‘Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish; because…inside you, you are full of greed and wickedness.’ ” And remember what God Himself said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” He is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.”send the light

Enjoy the fall temperatures, take in the beautiful colors, and remember The Light when you carve your pumpkins from the pumpkin patch!

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Reading Your Own Future…Oct. 26th

What if you could tell the future? To know what’s coming up, would that be a good thing or would you be uncomfortable knowing there might be something not so pleasant just ahead of you? We take each day in stride because we trust in God’s providential power. But what if God Himself were to tell us what was coming? To know the future all we would need to do was read a message from Him. If the finger of God were to write you a note on the wall, would you read it?

Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “I can read the writing on the wall.” We use that statement King Belshazzar..to say we can see what’s about to happen. Not in a supernatural way, but that we can ‘read’ the situation. However, there was one man who really did see the hand writing on the wall. But for King Belshazzar, the message wasn’t very good (read Daniel chapter 5). Come worship with us on Sunday morning and we’ll give you a glimpse into ‘reading your own future.’

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

Sunday morning, October 26, 2014

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

“Soldiers of Christ, Arise” – 647

What a great spiritual song of encouragement as we inspire one another to get up and get ready for battle. Not a war between political parties or individual ideologies, but a battle against the spirit of darkness (Ephesians 6). Notice verse 3 in this song and ask yourself, ‘Am I putting on the panoply of God?’ The FULL armor of God, not some of the armor, not most of the armor, but all the armor of God.

“In Moments Like These” – 239

Staying with the same musical key we’ll segue from “…You may overcome through Christ alone and stand entire at last.” …to… “In moments like these, I sing out a song, I sing out a love song to Jesus…” Being soldiers in the Lord’s army should give us excitement beyond compare. Why? Because we have a King who has already won the battle. He has given us a look into our own personal future.

“When My Love to Christ Grows Weak” – 350

How do you cope with struggles in life? When your faith is weak and your love for mankind, and for jesus in the gardenChrist, seems to be wavering where do you turn? This song will remind us of His suffering and will perhaps strengthen our own resolve. “When my love to Christ grows weak, when for deeper faith I seek, then in thought I go to Thee (Jesus, to the…) Garden of Gethsemane!” In the garden, poetically, “I walk amid the shades, while the lingering twilight fades.” If you were there with Him in the garden, you would “see this suffering, friendless One, weeping, praying there alone.” So for those of us who struggle in our love for mankind, and desire a stronger faith, perhaps we should go again (poetically) to the “Hill of Calvary…to the scenes of fear and woe.” Because, “there (we will) behold His agony as He suffered on the bitter tree.” After taking this journey in our mind, we will be ready to turn back again to our lives having learned the worth of pain and the power that comes in a full self-sacrifice.

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

A contemporary song we’ll sing during the passing of the collection plate that speaks of our adoration to God. Sweet adoration, glory, praise and devotion are what we should be giving to our God. During the ‘contribution’ we give our money…but how much of our life are we contributing to God? Let’s give Him our all so we can say, it is ‘the Divine One who reigns in our hearts.’

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

We might not know the future events that will take place, but we do know what the future holds for God’s people. And knowing that we are His and He is victorious we have hope. Knowing that if we keep our hope (trust) in Christ and are ‘dressed in His righteousness alone,’ we’ll stand before His throne…faultless. Thanks be to God, we can read that handwriting on the wall.

“One Step at a Time” – no book

An older hymn written in the late 1800’s, we ask for Christ to walk with us one step at a time. In a world filled with terror and troubles, sickness and sin, we hold closest to the One who holds our future. That’s why we sing for patience in this first verse; “One step at a time, dear Savior: I can not take anymore, the flesh is so weak and hopeless, I know not what is before…” Though we know the outcome of this life, the promise that heaven’s mansions will appear, each day is still lived in uncertainty. Therefore we close our worship services with the following assurance…

“I Know Who Holds Tomorrow” – 463

“I don’t know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day…I don’t worry o’er the future, for I know what Jesus said, (Matthew 6:25-34) and today I’ll walk beside Him, for He knows what is ahead. Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem to understand, but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand.” King Belshazzar was reading his future as the finger of God wrote it out on a plaster wall. And it wasn’t until Daniel told him the meaning that He knew what it said. Today, spend some time…Reading Your Own Future!