I Like to start with something funny…
A little girl, dressed in her Sunday best, was running as fast as she could, trying not to be late for Kid’s Church. As she ran she prayed, 'Dear Lord, please don't let me be late! Dear Lord, please don't let me be late!' While she was running and praying, she tripped on a curb and fell, getting her clothes dirty and tearing her dress. She got up, brushed herself off, and started running again! As she ran she once again began to pray, 'Dear Lord, please don't let me be late...But please don't shove me either!'
Today I’m continuing a new sermon series entitled PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD!
This little girl was definitely especially aware of God’s presence, although God isn't pushy...
Brother Lawrence, author of a classic Christian devotional, has inspired me…He shares spiritual secrets of a humble brother who enjoyed closeness with God…
1 day a week we gather together as Christians…Some of us show up 2x and week…and then there are special times when we get together even more in Jesus name…
But what about the rest of the week?
Are we Practicing the Presence of God everyday?
I don’t believe in religion…I believe in a relationship with Jesus, and that’s a 24/7 commitment… So in this sermon series I plan to give some practical advice in Living everyday with Jesus, Practicing the Presence of God…
We’ve already covered the first 6 practices
1. for the Love of God
2. Without Being Discouraged
3. To receive equally from His Hand the sweet and bitter
4. the examined life
5. the most excellent method
6. perfect resignation to God
Detailed notes are on my blog or Cd’s are available…
Practicing the Presence of God…
7. not weary of doing the little things
Ecclesiastes 3 proclaims, Everything Has Its Time
1 To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: 2 A time to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted; 3 A time to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up; 4 A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance; 5 A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones; A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing; 6 A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to throw away; 7 A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to keep silence, And a time to speak; 8 A time to love, And a time to hate; A time of war, And a time of peace.
There’s a right time for everything!
Don’t despise the small things… I’m convinced it’s the little things in life that truly matter, that truly make a difference, little things can make big things happen…
I found this inspiration on my favorite website this wk…
1. Take time to Work - It is the price of success.2. Take time to Think - It is the source of power.3. Take time to Play - It is the secret of youth.4. Take time to Read your Bible- It is the foundation of knowledge and feeds the soul.5. Take time to Worship - It is the highway of reverence and washes the dust of earth from our eyes.6. Take time to Help and Enjoy Friends - It is the source of happiness.7. Take time to Love - It is the one sacrament of life.8. Take time to Dream - It hitches the soul to the stars.9. Take time to Laugh - It is the singing that helps with life's loads.10. Take time to Pray: It rids us of our excess baggage.11. Take time to Plan - It is the secret of being able to have time to take time for the first ten things.
If that isn’t Practicing the Presence of God, I don’t know what is?!
7. the little things
8. persevere in these three virtues
I shared this Brother Lawrence quote recently on facebook…All things are possible to him who believes, they are less difficult to him who hopes, they are easier to him who loves, and still more easy to him who practices and perseveres in these three virtues…AMEN
I never miss the opportunity to go back to 1 Corinthians 13,
Ya’ll probably know by now, that my favorite version is from the message, paraphrase:
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love. Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn't want what it doesn't have. Love doesn't strut, Doesn't have a swelled head, Doesn't force itself on others, Isn't always "me first," Doesn't fly off the handle, Doesn't keep score of the sins of others, Doesn't revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end.
8-10Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
11When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.
12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
13But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
Oh I never get tired of it…
It’s all about LOVE!
Persevere in faith, hope and love
Examine everyday by faith, hope and love
Use every word for faith, hope and love
Don’t waste any moment without faith, hope and love
Even in those dark times, when you have trouble making sense of life’s hurts…persevere in faith, hope and love!
A Missionary was captured by cannibals. "I suppose you intend to eat me?" said the Missionary, and the chief grunted his affirmation. "Try a sample first, and see if you like me." said the Missionary as he took his knife and cut a slab from the calf of his leg and handed it to him. "Try this and see!" The chief took one bite and choked. The Missionary had a cork leg. The chief wanted no more of it and the Missionary was spared. Years before, he had thought it a "great misfortune" to lose his left leg and to wear an artificial leg, but afterwards it saved his life. It also preserved a great ministry that would have other wise been terminated immediately by the cannibals. "Those who leave everything in God's hand will eventually see God's hand in everything!"
Practicing the Presence of God
7. the little things
8. the three virtues
and our final practice for today…
9. must come naturally from purity and simplicity of heart
This practice almost does away with every other practice…
For if practicing the Presence of God is something laborious or hard than something is wrong…
It should come naturally as a result of placing your trust in Jesus…
I hope you don’t take these practices and try and try with all your might…
These pieces of advice for living everyday with Jesus are the practice of simplicity, are simple ideas for drawing you into His Presence…
The only thing that separates the Creator from His children is SIN…He created us for communion, for relationship, for worship…
Jesus took care of the sin...
Now we simply admit our NEED and try!
…ask for His help to remain pure, from the washing of His blood…
That’s why I put the purity pledge in the bulletin again…
Let’s take a look (in your bulletin)…
1 Cor. 6:19,20
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
…With God’s help, I pledge myself to purity. I submit myself to the Holy Spirit’s leading in all of my relationships. I ask that my conscience would be awakened in the name of Jesus. By the grace of God, I will keep my mind clean. I will avoid compromising situations. I will avoid inappropriate physical contact. I will be honest with myself regarding the impact media has on my and will begin setting higher standards. Putting the past behind me, I will invest in my future, by honoring God with my heart, my mind and my body…
SIGNIFICANT…lies from the media, “oh it doesn’t affect me…”
Part of the problem is the fact that Christians and nonChristians spend alot of time trashing their souls with the TV...
This is not for you to sign and hand into someone…
This is for you to keep (maybe stick in your Bible) to remind you of your pledge to God…
Psalm 24
clean hands and a pure heart
YES LORD
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
New Family Group...Thank You Glenda!
Our Wednesday Evening Family Groups are growing! Glenda started a new women's group...Look at all those pretty ladies!
(the picture is with my cell phone, so it's not the best quality)
Remember! Wednesdays at 6:30pm: Adult Bible Study with Pastor Lorin, Women's Group with Glenda M., Kids Club with Mrs. Shelli and Youth Group with me, Pastor Paul...
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Isn't Kathy doing a good job on the church bulletin?
Remember, you can click on the image to make it easier to read.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Practicing the Presence of God, Part 2 (sermon notes)
I Like to start with something funny…
Negotiations between union members and their employer were at an impasse. The union denied that their workers were flagrantly abusing their contract's sick-leave provisions. One morning at the bargaining table, the company's chief negotiator held aloft the morning edition of the newspaper, "This man," he announced, "called in sick yesterday!" There on the sports page, was a photo of the supposedly ill employee, who had just won a local golf tournament with an excellent score. The silence in the room was broken by a union negotiator. "Wow," he said. "Just think of what kind of score he could have had if he hadn't been sick!"
Today I’m continuing a new sermon series entitled PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD
Have you ever heard of Brother Lawrence?
He is the author of a classic book on Practical Christian Devotion…In it he shared the spiritual secrets of a humble brother who enjoyed closeness with God…
He is probably most known for his pilgrim’s prayer…LORD of all pots and pans and things…Make me a saint by getting meals And washing up the plates!
Brother Lawrence was able to turn even the most commonplace and menial task into a living hymn to the glory of God!
No conceited scholar was Brother Lawrence; theological and doctrinal debates bored him, if he noticed them at all. His one desire was for communion with God…You would find him worshipping more in his kitchen than in his cathedral…
1 day a week we gather together as Christians…Some of us show up 2x and week…and then there are special times when we get together even more in Jesus name…
But what about the rest of the week?
Are we Practicing the Presence of God everyday?
I don’t believe in religion…I believe in a relationship with Jesus, and that’s a 24/7 commitment…
So in this sermon series I plan to give some practical advice in Living everyday with Jesus, Practicing the Presence of God…
2 Sundays ago we covered the first three practices
1. for the Love of God
This is not a earning of God’s love…
Jesus already took care of that on the cross…
This is a matter of motivation…
Obviously when we are reading the word of God or having a time of focused prayer it is practicing His presence, it is for the love of God…but, don’t leave Him there and go do your living…Let Him be with you in the ordinary…
Luke 10:27, Jesus summed up all of scripture: Love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and Love your neighbor as yourself
...Everything…for the love of God
Still reviewing…
2. Without Being Discouraged
Proverbs 24:16 says for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again
...you fall down then you get up again
Every day is a new beginning
Never Give Up
3. To receive equally from His Hand the sweet and bitter
Everyday carries some sweetness and some bitterness
To Practice His Presence requires such a surrender that you thank Him for both…
Remember what James said?
chapter 1 verse 2
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds
There are many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand.
Practicing the Presence of God
1. For the Love of God
2. without being discouraged
3. receiving equally from His hand the sweet and bitter
And today we tackle 3 more practices
4. the examined life
James 3
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
You’ve heard it said…the unexamined life is not worth living
I agree with this sentiment…and James obviously does too!
We live in a world where 2 Wisdoms exist... (I personally wouldn’t call worldly wisdom, wisdom at all) but James is making a point, submit to God’s ways, wisdom from heaven!
James gives us a blueprint here for examining our days, our lives, our moments…
Wisdom from heaven is pure
Practicing the Presence of God demands that I examine my life to see that it is pure before my God…
Wisdom from heaven is peace-loving
What have I done recently to promote peace?
Wisdom from heaven is considerate
Examining my words reveals that a lot of what comes out of my face could be a lot more considerate
Wisdom from heaven is submissive
How have I pushed my own agenda instead of living His Kingdom and Purposes…
Wisdom from heaven is full of mercy
Wow, are you challenged as much as I am by this list?
Wisdom from heaven is impartial, sincere, righteous…
Father, teach us to examine our lives with your WORD!
Practicing the Presence of God
4. the examined life
5. the most excellent method
Philippians 4:8…Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Titus 3
1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.
3At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.
9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. 10Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. 11You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
I still believe in right and wrong, that which is birthed out of heaven, and that which is from the pit of hell…
Everything is not relative, Integrity still works! Excellence can still be the goal!
As the book of Titus, points out, sometimes excellence requires a parting of ways with those who refuse to practice His Presence. (That's really hard for me...I really have a hard time letting people go)
But that is never an excuse to not live mercy and grace in every circumstance…Titus began with reminding his readers of our justification by grace and then called them to a high standard of excellence! We need to keep things in order. God’s Grace triumphs over judgment!
Practicing the Presence of God
4. the examined life
5. the most excellent method
and finally 6. perfect resignation to God
2 Corinthians 13:11… Finally, brothers, Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Yes, Scripture demands perfection, but offers strength for it’s aim…
2 Corinthians 12:9… But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
The truth is, I am not calling anybody to perfection with this practice of His Presence…
This practice says perfect resignation to God…
True Surrender
Resign from being the master of the universe, He’s better at it anyway…
Deuteronomy 32:4… He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
2 Samuel 22:31… As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
I always hear people using the scripture…God doesn’t give you more than you can handle…
I think we’re taking it out of context…God certainly does allow more than you can handle…
It’s about letting Him handle it…Letting His strength be perfect in our weakness...
Perfect Resignation to God is the only way for a Christian to truly enjoy His Presence to truly live in Peace and Joy, Practicing the Presence of God…
A teenager lived alone with his father, and the two of them had a very special relationship. The father believed in encouragement. Even though the son was always on the bench, his father was always in the stands cheering. He never missed a game.This young man was the smallest of the class when he entered highschool. His father continued to encourage him but also made it veryclear that he did not have to play football if he didn't want to.But the young man loved football and decided to hang in there. He was determined to try his best at every practice, and perhaps he'd get to play when he became a senior.All through high school he never missed a practice nor a game, butremained a bench warmer all four years. His faithful father was always in the stands, always with words of encouragement for him.When the young man went to college, he decided to try out for thefootball team as a "walk-on." Everyone was sure he could never make the cut, but he did. The coach admitted that he kept him on the roster because he always puts his heart and soul to every practice, and at the same time, provided the other members with the spirit and hustle they badly needed. The news that he had survived the cut thrilled him so much that he rushed to the nearest phone and called his father. His father shared his excitement and was sent season tickets for all the college games.This persistent young athlete never missed practice during his fouryears at college, but he never got to play in the game. It was the end of his senior football season, and as he trotted onto the practice field shortly before the big play off game, the coach met him with a telegram. The young man read the telegram and he became deathly silent.Swallowing hard, he mumbled to the coach, "My father died this morning. Is it all right if I miss practice today?" The coach put his arm gently around his shoulder and said, "Take the rest of the week off, son. And don't even plan to come back to the game on Saturday."Saturday arrived, and the game was not going well. In the third quarter, when the team was ten points behind, a silent young man quietly slipped into the empty locker room and put on his football gear.As he ran onto the sidelines, the coach and his players were astounded to see their faithful team-mate back so soon."Coach, please let me play. I've just got to play today," said the young man. The coach pretended not to hear him. There was no way he wanted his worst player in this close playoff game. But the young man persisted, and finally feeling sorry for the kid, the coach gave in. "All right," he said. "You can go in."Before long, the coach, the players and everyone in the stands could not believe their eyes. This little unknown, who had never played before, was doing everything right. The opposing team could not stop him. He ran, he passed, blocked and tackled like a star. His team began to triumph. The score was soon tied. In the closing seconds of the game, this kid intercepted a pass and ran all the way for the winning touchdown. The fans broke loose. His team-mates hoisted him onto their shoulders. Such cheering you've never heard!Finally, after the stands had emptied and the team had showered and left the locker room, the coach noticed that the young man was sitting quietly in the corner all alone. The coach came to him and said, "Kid, I can't believe it. You were fantastic!Tell me what got into you? How did you do it?" He looked at the coach with tears in his eyes, and said, "Well, you knew my dad died, but did you know that my dad was blind?" The young man swallowed hard and forced a smile, "Dad came to all my games, but today was the first time he could see me play, and I wanted to show him I could do it!"
That’s like Practicing the Presence of God…It’s living your life only for the Father’s Eyes in heaven…
Negotiations between union members and their employer were at an impasse. The union denied that their workers were flagrantly abusing their contract's sick-leave provisions. One morning at the bargaining table, the company's chief negotiator held aloft the morning edition of the newspaper, "This man," he announced, "called in sick yesterday!" There on the sports page, was a photo of the supposedly ill employee, who had just won a local golf tournament with an excellent score. The silence in the room was broken by a union negotiator. "Wow," he said. "Just think of what kind of score he could have had if he hadn't been sick!"
Today I’m continuing a new sermon series entitled PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD
Have you ever heard of Brother Lawrence?
He is the author of a classic book on Practical Christian Devotion…In it he shared the spiritual secrets of a humble brother who enjoyed closeness with God…
He is probably most known for his pilgrim’s prayer…LORD of all pots and pans and things…Make me a saint by getting meals And washing up the plates!
Brother Lawrence was able to turn even the most commonplace and menial task into a living hymn to the glory of God!
No conceited scholar was Brother Lawrence; theological and doctrinal debates bored him, if he noticed them at all. His one desire was for communion with God…You would find him worshipping more in his kitchen than in his cathedral…
1 day a week we gather together as Christians…Some of us show up 2x and week…and then there are special times when we get together even more in Jesus name…
But what about the rest of the week?
Are we Practicing the Presence of God everyday?
I don’t believe in religion…I believe in a relationship with Jesus, and that’s a 24/7 commitment…
So in this sermon series I plan to give some practical advice in Living everyday with Jesus, Practicing the Presence of God…
2 Sundays ago we covered the first three practices
1. for the Love of God
This is not a earning of God’s love…
Jesus already took care of that on the cross…
This is a matter of motivation…
Obviously when we are reading the word of God or having a time of focused prayer it is practicing His presence, it is for the love of God…but, don’t leave Him there and go do your living…Let Him be with you in the ordinary…
Luke 10:27, Jesus summed up all of scripture: Love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and Love your neighbor as yourself
...Everything…for the love of God
Still reviewing…
2. Without Being Discouraged
Proverbs 24:16 says for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again
...you fall down then you get up again
Every day is a new beginning
Never Give Up
3. To receive equally from His Hand the sweet and bitter
Everyday carries some sweetness and some bitterness
To Practice His Presence requires such a surrender that you thank Him for both…
Remember what James said?
chapter 1 verse 2
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds
There are many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand.
Practicing the Presence of God
1. For the Love of God
2. without being discouraged
3. receiving equally from His hand the sweet and bitter
And today we tackle 3 more practices
4. the examined life
James 3
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
You’ve heard it said…the unexamined life is not worth living
I agree with this sentiment…and James obviously does too!
We live in a world where 2 Wisdoms exist... (I personally wouldn’t call worldly wisdom, wisdom at all) but James is making a point, submit to God’s ways, wisdom from heaven!
James gives us a blueprint here for examining our days, our lives, our moments…
Wisdom from heaven is pure
Practicing the Presence of God demands that I examine my life to see that it is pure before my God…
Wisdom from heaven is peace-loving
What have I done recently to promote peace?
Wisdom from heaven is considerate
Examining my words reveals that a lot of what comes out of my face could be a lot more considerate
Wisdom from heaven is submissive
How have I pushed my own agenda instead of living His Kingdom and Purposes…
Wisdom from heaven is full of mercy
Wow, are you challenged as much as I am by this list?
Wisdom from heaven is impartial, sincere, righteous…
Father, teach us to examine our lives with your WORD!
Practicing the Presence of God
4. the examined life
5. the most excellent method
Philippians 4:8…Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Titus 3
1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.
3At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.
9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. 10Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. 11You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
I still believe in right and wrong, that which is birthed out of heaven, and that which is from the pit of hell…
Everything is not relative, Integrity still works! Excellence can still be the goal!
As the book of Titus, points out, sometimes excellence requires a parting of ways with those who refuse to practice His Presence. (That's really hard for me...I really have a hard time letting people go)
But that is never an excuse to not live mercy and grace in every circumstance…Titus began with reminding his readers of our justification by grace and then called them to a high standard of excellence! We need to keep things in order. God’s Grace triumphs over judgment!
Practicing the Presence of God
4. the examined life
5. the most excellent method
and finally 6. perfect resignation to God
2 Corinthians 13:11… Finally, brothers, Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Yes, Scripture demands perfection, but offers strength for it’s aim…
2 Corinthians 12:9… But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
The truth is, I am not calling anybody to perfection with this practice of His Presence…
This practice says perfect resignation to God…
True Surrender
Resign from being the master of the universe, He’s better at it anyway…
Deuteronomy 32:4… He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
2 Samuel 22:31… As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
I always hear people using the scripture…God doesn’t give you more than you can handle…
I think we’re taking it out of context…God certainly does allow more than you can handle…
It’s about letting Him handle it…Letting His strength be perfect in our weakness...
Perfect Resignation to God is the only way for a Christian to truly enjoy His Presence to truly live in Peace and Joy, Practicing the Presence of God…
A teenager lived alone with his father, and the two of them had a very special relationship. The father believed in encouragement. Even though the son was always on the bench, his father was always in the stands cheering. He never missed a game.This young man was the smallest of the class when he entered highschool. His father continued to encourage him but also made it veryclear that he did not have to play football if he didn't want to.But the young man loved football and decided to hang in there. He was determined to try his best at every practice, and perhaps he'd get to play when he became a senior.All through high school he never missed a practice nor a game, butremained a bench warmer all four years. His faithful father was always in the stands, always with words of encouragement for him.When the young man went to college, he decided to try out for thefootball team as a "walk-on." Everyone was sure he could never make the cut, but he did. The coach admitted that he kept him on the roster because he always puts his heart and soul to every practice, and at the same time, provided the other members with the spirit and hustle they badly needed. The news that he had survived the cut thrilled him so much that he rushed to the nearest phone and called his father. His father shared his excitement and was sent season tickets for all the college games.This persistent young athlete never missed practice during his fouryears at college, but he never got to play in the game. It was the end of his senior football season, and as he trotted onto the practice field shortly before the big play off game, the coach met him with a telegram. The young man read the telegram and he became deathly silent.Swallowing hard, he mumbled to the coach, "My father died this morning. Is it all right if I miss practice today?" The coach put his arm gently around his shoulder and said, "Take the rest of the week off, son. And don't even plan to come back to the game on Saturday."Saturday arrived, and the game was not going well. In the third quarter, when the team was ten points behind, a silent young man quietly slipped into the empty locker room and put on his football gear.As he ran onto the sidelines, the coach and his players were astounded to see their faithful team-mate back so soon."Coach, please let me play. I've just got to play today," said the young man. The coach pretended not to hear him. There was no way he wanted his worst player in this close playoff game. But the young man persisted, and finally feeling sorry for the kid, the coach gave in. "All right," he said. "You can go in."Before long, the coach, the players and everyone in the stands could not believe their eyes. This little unknown, who had never played before, was doing everything right. The opposing team could not stop him. He ran, he passed, blocked and tackled like a star. His team began to triumph. The score was soon tied. In the closing seconds of the game, this kid intercepted a pass and ran all the way for the winning touchdown. The fans broke loose. His team-mates hoisted him onto their shoulders. Such cheering you've never heard!Finally, after the stands had emptied and the team had showered and left the locker room, the coach noticed that the young man was sitting quietly in the corner all alone. The coach came to him and said, "Kid, I can't believe it. You were fantastic!Tell me what got into you? How did you do it?" He looked at the coach with tears in his eyes, and said, "Well, you knew my dad died, but did you know that my dad was blind?" The young man swallowed hard and forced a smile, "Dad came to all my games, but today was the first time he could see me play, and I wanted to show him I could do it!"
That’s like Practicing the Presence of God…It’s living your life only for the Father’s Eyes in heaven…
Friday, September 18, 2009
Thank You Christle!
Last night at our monthly board meeting, Christle Brooks accepted a church board appointment.Because of two vacant board positions, we felt it necessary to appoint a new member.
I usually like to wait for an all church vote, but we felt confident in her appointment because the church membership almost voted her into office at our last annual family business meeting.
I am so thankful for her willingness to serve her church.
I borrowed this beautiful picture of her and Les off of her facebook profile.
Thank You Kathy!
KQ is my new office manager! (this is she and Al's old church directory photo)With my wifey working so much at Providence Hospital, Holly is now just helping us out as office consultant once in awhile...
Kathy is really doing a good job...I am so thankful for her willingness to serve her church!
Also, I don't know if I've already mentioned it but, Robin Stone is our Office Help Coordinator. If you have some time to donate to the church give Robin or Kathy a holler...
Thank you Jesus for all the wonderful help you send me!
I believe in T.E.A.M...Together...Everyone...Accomplishes...More...
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Tamara Henkes / Annual Missions Dinner
I really enjoyed Tamara's message today: GREATER THINGS ARE YET TO COME!
For more information on today's special missionary guest visit:
http://www.henkes.ministryhome.org/ OR www.xanga.com/henkelberry
A BIG THANK YOU to Kathy & Linda & Doris & all the HOSPITALITY TEAM who worked so hard to make our missions dinner PERFECT!
I promised several of our church members today that I would post the recipe for Tamara's Romanian Stew:
Ciorbă de Perişoare (pronounced Chee yorba day Pear ee shworay)
Sour Meatball Soup
5 small carrots diced
2 small onions diced (one for meatball mixture other for soup)
Celery root(ginger root) diced (peeled) Ţelină
1 green pepper diced (or ½ red, yellow, green)
½ kilo of ground meat
1 egg
1 ½ tablespoon of salt
1 cup of rice
1 tsp of pepper
2-3 liter of water
Parsley
Pinch of oregano
½ cup of tomato pastes (sauce)
Sour Cream
1. Mix meat, egg, salt and pepper together
2. mix in one onion and rice into the meat mixture
3. Make meatballs (use water on hand so it won’t stick)
4. When water comes to a boil add meatballs to water. Cook for 40 minutes
5. add, carrots, root, green pepper, parsley, onion to water and let cook for about 20 more minutes
6. add salt, pepper tomato paste to taste.
7. when serving add a teaspoon of sour cream on top of soup in bowl
(I believe Linda Accardo purchased 10x the recipe for our dinner today...)
For more information on today's special missionary guest visit:
http://www.henkes.ministryhome.org/ OR www.xanga.com/henkelberry
A BIG THANK YOU to Kathy & Linda & Doris & all the HOSPITALITY TEAM who worked so hard to make our missions dinner PERFECT!
I promised several of our church members today that I would post the recipe for Tamara's Romanian Stew:
Ciorbă de Perişoare (pronounced Chee yorba day Pear ee shworay)
Sour Meatball Soup
5 small carrots diced
2 small onions diced (one for meatball mixture other for soup)
Celery root(ginger root) diced (peeled) Ţelină
1 green pepper diced (or ½ red, yellow, green)
½ kilo of ground meat
1 egg
1 ½ tablespoon of salt
1 cup of rice
1 tsp of pepper
2-3 liter of water
Parsley
Pinch of oregano
½ cup of tomato pastes (sauce)
Sour Cream
1. Mix meat, egg, salt and pepper together
2. mix in one onion and rice into the meat mixture
3. Make meatballs (use water on hand so it won’t stick)
4. When water comes to a boil add meatballs to water. Cook for 40 minutes
5. add, carrots, root, green pepper, parsley, onion to water and let cook for about 20 more minutes
6. add salt, pepper tomato paste to taste.
7. when serving add a teaspoon of sour cream on top of soup in bowl
(I believe Linda Accardo purchased 10x the recipe for our dinner today...)
Happy Birthday Elijah!
Cindy Dara's AMAZING 7-layer dip made me disobey my new diet and exercise program...
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Back to School Kids Fair
A BIG THANK YOU TO MRS. SHELLI AND ALL THE WONDEROUS VOLUNTEERS!
Nathaniel had a good time, I promise!
The adults had a fun night too!
What a sweetheart!
Even God decided to join the fun, His artwork is Amazing!
Miss Nelda, Megan and Presley are quite crafty!
Miss Glenda was our GOOD NEWS lady!
We make 'em cute at New Beginnings!
Sawyer is quite the bowler, that rhymed!
See, I told you Nathaniel had fun!Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Practicing the Presence of God, Part 1 (sermon notes)
WOW, what a wonderful service we had on Sunday!
The best attendance for Labor Day weekend I've ever seen!
I wish I would have got some photos from the Water Baptisms.
We had the privilege of celebrating with Debbie Nosik and Joel Mesman.
And the Veterans prayed over Josh Spencer as he leaves for boot camp...AND...
Today I’m beginning a new sermon series entitled PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD
Have you ever heard of Brother Lawrence?
He is the author of a classic book on Practical Christian Devotion…In it he shared the spiritual secrets of a humble brother who enjoyed closeness with God…
He is probably most known for his pilgrim’s prayer…LORD of all pots and pans and things…Make me a saint by getting meals And washing up the plates!
Brother Lawrence was able to turn even the most commonplace and menial task into a living hymn to the glory of God!
No conceited scholar was Brother Lawrence; theological and doctrinal debates bored him, if he noticed them at all. His one desire was for communion with God…You would find him worshipping more in his kitchen than in his cathedral…
1 day a week we gather together as Christians…Some of us show up 2x and week…and then there are special times when we get together even more in Jesus name…
But what about the rest of the week?
Are we Practicing the Presence of God everyday?
I don’t believe in religion…I believe in a relationship with Jesus, and that’s a 24/7 commitment…
So in this sermon series I plan to give some practical advice in Living everyday with Jesus, Practicing the Presence of God…
Beginning with,
1. for the Love of God
Whatever happens with your days, your moments, your words, actions, priorities…the everyday commitments…
going to your job, mowing your lawn, caring for the kids, etc.
Is it for the Love of God?
Now, I’m not talking about, earning God’s love
Jesus already took care of that on the cross
I’m talking about your motivation?
If I were to tap you on the shoulder, while your standing over that sink of dishes or cleaning that house or filing those papers or playing with your family or visiting the doctor…
If I were to ask you, right now in this activity what is your motivation…those who practice the Presence of God would answer…FOR THE LOVE OF GOD
Obviously when we are reading the word of God or having a time of focused prayer it is practicing His presence, it is for the love of God…but, don’t leave Him there and go do your living…Let Him be with you in the ordinary…
Deuteronomy 6:5 says Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength…
Everything…For the love of God
Deuteronomy 30:20 says and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to Him…For the LORD is your life
Everything…For the love of God
Joshua 23:11 says so be very careful to love the Lord your God
Everything…For the Love of God
Psalm 42:8 says by day the Lord directs His love, at night His song is with me – a prayer to the God of my life
Everything…For the Love of God
Hosea 12:6 says But you must return to God; maintain love and justice, and wait for your God Always
Everything…for the love of God
Micah 6:8 says what does the Lord require of you? to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God
Everything…for the love of God
Luke 10:27, Jesus summed up all of scripture: Love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and Love your neighbor as yourself
Everything…for the love of God
I’ve been on a special diet and exercise program working toward a truly healthy lifestyle…God has always whispered for me to make better choices in this area…
Marion Smith, penned these words entitled Special Diet
Our daughter's boyfriend, Trey had been diagnosed with diabetes when he was just 25 years old. After having eaten any way he wanted for his entire life, conforming to a special diet for diabetics was a difficult transition. His carbohydrate and sugar intakes had to be measured and monitored, and food needed to be eaten every so many hours. What he put into his body would make the difference between living healthy and possibly not living at all! I believe our thoughts are our soul's food. The things we think about are the things we feed upon. Are our thoughts self centered, self promoting, self gratifying, self righteous, self-indulgent and self-absorbed? If so, we will live a very shallow and obviously self centered life. God calls us to feed our souls with thoughts of Him. How? By taking the words in the Bible and reading them not only silently, but out loud. We can internalize them much more efficiently when we use both methods of reading. His call to love others and His marvelous promises arein the Word for us to eat and internalize into the depths of our beings so let's hurry to the feast table, and dine on His Special Diet waiting for us.
Can you say amen?
If you said amen, then with God’s help you may need to start making better choices this week…Everything…For the Love of God…
Practicing The Presence of God
1. For the Love of God
2. Without Being Discouraged
Proverbs 24:16 says for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again
I don’t believe you have to count to seven and then give up!
The point is…
Never Give up!
I can guarantee you, that if you make the commitment to Practice the Presence of God…you will drift daily…You will never become perfect…
SO, this is a lifetime achievement
this is preparation for all eternity in His presence!
Practice the Presence of God: Without being discouraged...it's a choice!
you fall down then you get up again
you fall down then you get up again
Every day is a new beginning
Every moment is a new beginning
No matter where you’ve been
No matter what you’ve done
You can begin again
IN JESUS NAME
Look at the front of your bulletin
Lamentations 3:21-25…
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.’ The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him;”
I received an email this week regarding AG news and info, as I often do, it contained this short article…
At 95, Ellen Blackwell is still involved in full-time ministry. She is senior pastor of Way of Faith Assembly of God in Fairfax, Virginia. She also travels 90 minutes one way every Sunday afternoon to preach at Mount Zion Assembly of God in Charles Town, West Virginia. Blackwell planted Way of Faith AG in 1970. "I went through the school of hard knocks and experience," she says.She says her main focus is training young people for the ministry. Gokul Raaj, 28, has attended Way of Faith AG for two years and considers Blackwell a spiritual role model. "When I see her at this age able to speak up and stand for God, I think how much I can do for God when I am so young," Raaj says. "She has enabled me to see a greater depth and truth in the Word of God." She also has compiled verse-by-verse study manuals for books of the New Testament and is nearing completion on books of the Old Testament. This year the Potomac District recognized Blackwell for 50 years of ministry as an ordained minister. "She is one of the people that I esteem the highest in our district," says Potomac District Superintendent Larry Hickey. Way of Faith AG church has developed a prayer center in Israel in Galilee. Blackwell goes at least annually to lead tour groups. She plans to go in September and December this year. Blackwell, who is single, doesn't have plans to stop working. "I would be miserable to retire," she says.
After reading this article, now I know Pastor and Mrs. Short might just outlast me in full-time ministry…
Practicing the Presence of God
1. For the Love of God
2. Without being Discouraged
3…this one is much easier said than done…To receive equally from His Hand the sweet and bitter
Everyday carries some sweetness and some bitterness...
To Practice His Presence requires such a surrender that you thank Him for both…
Remember what James said?
chapter 1 verse 2
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
I don't know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day.And I don't borrow from the sunshine, 'Cause the skies might turn to gray. And I don't worry about the future, 'Cause I know what Jesus said, And today I'm gonna walk right beside him,'Cause he's the one who knows what is ahead. There are things about tomorrow, That I don't seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand. And each step is getting brighter, As the golden stairs I climb. And every burden is getting lighter, And all the clouds, their silver line. And, I'll bet the sun it's always shining, And no tears will ever dim the eye, And the ending of the rainbow, Where the mountains, they touch the sky. There are many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand. Yes I know who holds my hand.
The best attendance for Labor Day weekend I've ever seen!
I wish I would have got some photos from the Water Baptisms.
We had the privilege of celebrating with Debbie Nosik and Joel Mesman.
And the Veterans prayed over Josh Spencer as he leaves for boot camp...AND...
Today I’m beginning a new sermon series entitled PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD
Have you ever heard of Brother Lawrence?
He is the author of a classic book on Practical Christian Devotion…In it he shared the spiritual secrets of a humble brother who enjoyed closeness with God…
He is probably most known for his pilgrim’s prayer…LORD of all pots and pans and things…Make me a saint by getting meals And washing up the plates!
Brother Lawrence was able to turn even the most commonplace and menial task into a living hymn to the glory of God!
No conceited scholar was Brother Lawrence; theological and doctrinal debates bored him, if he noticed them at all. His one desire was for communion with God…You would find him worshipping more in his kitchen than in his cathedral…
1 day a week we gather together as Christians…Some of us show up 2x and week…and then there are special times when we get together even more in Jesus name…
But what about the rest of the week?
Are we Practicing the Presence of God everyday?
I don’t believe in religion…I believe in a relationship with Jesus, and that’s a 24/7 commitment…
So in this sermon series I plan to give some practical advice in Living everyday with Jesus, Practicing the Presence of God…
Beginning with,
1. for the Love of God
Whatever happens with your days, your moments, your words, actions, priorities…the everyday commitments…
going to your job, mowing your lawn, caring for the kids, etc.
Is it for the Love of God?
Now, I’m not talking about, earning God’s love
Jesus already took care of that on the cross
I’m talking about your motivation?
If I were to tap you on the shoulder, while your standing over that sink of dishes or cleaning that house or filing those papers or playing with your family or visiting the doctor…
If I were to ask you, right now in this activity what is your motivation…those who practice the Presence of God would answer…FOR THE LOVE OF GOD
Obviously when we are reading the word of God or having a time of focused prayer it is practicing His presence, it is for the love of God…but, don’t leave Him there and go do your living…Let Him be with you in the ordinary…
Deuteronomy 6:5 says Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength…
Everything…For the love of God
Deuteronomy 30:20 says and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to Him…For the LORD is your life
Everything…For the love of God
Joshua 23:11 says so be very careful to love the Lord your God
Everything…For the Love of God
Psalm 42:8 says by day the Lord directs His love, at night His song is with me – a prayer to the God of my life
Everything…For the Love of God
Hosea 12:6 says But you must return to God; maintain love and justice, and wait for your God Always
Everything…for the love of God
Micah 6:8 says what does the Lord require of you? to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God
Everything…for the love of God
Luke 10:27, Jesus summed up all of scripture: Love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and Love your neighbor as yourself
Everything…for the love of God
I’ve been on a special diet and exercise program working toward a truly healthy lifestyle…God has always whispered for me to make better choices in this area…
Marion Smith, penned these words entitled Special Diet
Our daughter's boyfriend, Trey had been diagnosed with diabetes when he was just 25 years old. After having eaten any way he wanted for his entire life, conforming to a special diet for diabetics was a difficult transition. His carbohydrate and sugar intakes had to be measured and monitored, and food needed to be eaten every so many hours. What he put into his body would make the difference between living healthy and possibly not living at all! I believe our thoughts are our soul's food. The things we think about are the things we feed upon. Are our thoughts self centered, self promoting, self gratifying, self righteous, self-indulgent and self-absorbed? If so, we will live a very shallow and obviously self centered life. God calls us to feed our souls with thoughts of Him. How? By taking the words in the Bible and reading them not only silently, but out loud. We can internalize them much more efficiently when we use both methods of reading. His call to love others and His marvelous promises arein the Word for us to eat and internalize into the depths of our beings so let's hurry to the feast table, and dine on His Special Diet waiting for us.
Can you say amen?
If you said amen, then with God’s help you may need to start making better choices this week…Everything…For the Love of God…
Practicing The Presence of God
1. For the Love of God
2. Without Being Discouraged
Proverbs 24:16 says for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again
I don’t believe you have to count to seven and then give up!
The point is…
Never Give up!
I can guarantee you, that if you make the commitment to Practice the Presence of God…you will drift daily…You will never become perfect…
SO, this is a lifetime achievement
this is preparation for all eternity in His presence!
Practice the Presence of God: Without being discouraged...it's a choice!
you fall down then you get up again
you fall down then you get up again
Every day is a new beginning
Every moment is a new beginning
No matter where you’ve been
No matter what you’ve done
You can begin again
IN JESUS NAME
Look at the front of your bulletin
Lamentations 3:21-25…
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.’ The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him;”
I received an email this week regarding AG news and info, as I often do, it contained this short article…
At 95, Ellen Blackwell is still involved in full-time ministry. She is senior pastor of Way of Faith Assembly of God in Fairfax, Virginia. She also travels 90 minutes one way every Sunday afternoon to preach at Mount Zion Assembly of God in Charles Town, West Virginia. Blackwell planted Way of Faith AG in 1970. "I went through the school of hard knocks and experience," she says.She says her main focus is training young people for the ministry. Gokul Raaj, 28, has attended Way of Faith AG for two years and considers Blackwell a spiritual role model. "When I see her at this age able to speak up and stand for God, I think how much I can do for God when I am so young," Raaj says. "She has enabled me to see a greater depth and truth in the Word of God." She also has compiled verse-by-verse study manuals for books of the New Testament and is nearing completion on books of the Old Testament. This year the Potomac District recognized Blackwell for 50 years of ministry as an ordained minister. "She is one of the people that I esteem the highest in our district," says Potomac District Superintendent Larry Hickey. Way of Faith AG church has developed a prayer center in Israel in Galilee. Blackwell goes at least annually to lead tour groups. She plans to go in September and December this year. Blackwell, who is single, doesn't have plans to stop working. "I would be miserable to retire," she says.
After reading this article, now I know Pastor and Mrs. Short might just outlast me in full-time ministry…
Practicing the Presence of God
1. For the Love of God
2. Without being Discouraged
3…this one is much easier said than done…To receive equally from His Hand the sweet and bitter
Everyday carries some sweetness and some bitterness...
To Practice His Presence requires such a surrender that you thank Him for both…
Remember what James said?
chapter 1 verse 2
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
I don't know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day.And I don't borrow from the sunshine, 'Cause the skies might turn to gray. And I don't worry about the future, 'Cause I know what Jesus said, And today I'm gonna walk right beside him,'Cause he's the one who knows what is ahead. There are things about tomorrow, That I don't seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand. And each step is getting brighter, As the golden stairs I climb. And every burden is getting lighter, And all the clouds, their silver line. And, I'll bet the sun it's always shining, And no tears will ever dim the eye, And the ending of the rainbow, Where the mountains, they touch the sky. There are many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand, But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand. Yes I know who holds my hand.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
We are so proud of you, Josh!
My nephew, Josh Spencer, is going to boot camp next week!Please Pray for his safety, and also comfort for his wife and son (Cami and Aiden) as he is away for several months.
Because he will be missing the holidays with the family, we had a big turkey dinner last night in his honor.
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