“We Are Children Of God”
Roman's 8:16 "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God..."
Being a child of God has always brought me tremendous comfort. Early in my walk with Christ, I knew that He lived in me and I in Him. I knew I was His child. His Spirit in me assured me of that truth. I had a literal spiritual birth when He became my Lord, my Father and my Savior. We don't talk enough about ourselves in terms of our spiritual being. I love the words "The Spirit Himself". So personal. So real. Such a witness to the truth of my salvation. When we are "born again" or come to the knowledge of the saving grace of Christ, it is a real experience. I think that is why I begin the majority of my prayers by saying "Father God,". I am His child. I hope you think deeply about your relationship with Him today. May "The Spirit Himself" reveal to you, who you are in Him.
In Him,
Pastor Fred
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Monday, December 31, 2018
Last Devotional Of 2018
As I thought about what to close 2018 with as the scripture reference for the December 31st devotional, it was clear to me to share Jude's final words of his general epistle. This passage is often spoken as a benediction or exhortation during worship. Read it as if Jude is sharing with you his deepest convictions about His Savior, Jesus. These verses exalt Christ, because only He can save us. As we commit to do good in 2019, let us do so to honor God.
Jude 24-25 "Now to Him Who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen."
Compelling words. Let us live for Him.
Pastor Fred
As I thought about what to close 2018 with as the scripture reference for the December 31st devotional, it was clear to me to share Jude's final words of his general epistle. This passage is often spoken as a benediction or exhortation during worship. Read it as if Jude is sharing with you his deepest convictions about His Savior, Jesus. These verses exalt Christ, because only He can save us. As we commit to do good in 2019, let us do so to honor God.
Jude 24-25 "Now to Him Who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen."
Compelling words. Let us live for Him.
Pastor Fred
Friday, December 28, 2018
Daily Devotional
by Donald Lowe
John 1:29 - 42
John 1:29 - 42
A CHAIN OF WITNESSES
John witnessed in public and before his own disciples, creating a chain of witnesses for Christ. He is not afraid to decline personally in notoriety (Jn 3. 30) if he is to proclaim Christ ...
(29-34). John publicly recognizes Jesus as the Lamb of God, therefore he who is destined to erase the sin of the whole world; the one on whom the Spirit descended and stopped, the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. And he declares that Jesus is the Son of God. Who is Jesus for you, and what do you say of him in public?
After recognizing and testifying to Jesus publicly, John the Baptist bears witness to him especially to two of his disciples who follow and live with Jesus Christ (38-39). Andrew, one of the two, testifies not only to his brother Simon but above all to Christ (40-42; 2 Tim. 2). How can you do like Andrew today and give Jesus to someone like the best end-of-the-year gift?
What are you doing to those members of your family who do not have Christ and what is the content of your message?
Reminder: Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
In Him,
Donald Lowe
John witnessed in public and before his own disciples, creating a chain of witnesses for Christ. He is not afraid to decline personally in notoriety (Jn 3. 30) if he is to proclaim Christ ...
(29-34). John publicly recognizes Jesus as the Lamb of God, therefore he who is destined to erase the sin of the whole world; the one on whom the Spirit descended and stopped, the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. And he declares that Jesus is the Son of God. Who is Jesus for you, and what do you say of him in public?
After recognizing and testifying to Jesus publicly, John the Baptist bears witness to him especially to two of his disciples who follow and live with Jesus Christ (38-39). Andrew, one of the two, testifies not only to his brother Simon but above all to Christ (40-42; 2 Tim. 2). How can you do like Andrew today and give Jesus to someone like the best end-of-the-year gift?
What are you doing to those members of your family who do not have Christ and what is the content of your message?
Reminder: Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
In Him,
Donald Lowe
Daily Devotional
by Bayless Conley
by Bayless Conley
Enjoy today's devotional: The Signpost of a Provoked Heart
Without a doubt, God has plans for you. Your life is no accident. You have a purpose. In today’s devotional, we will discover an important key to help you understand your calling.Let’s look first at Acts 17:16–17,Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols. Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there.The word provoked literally means that his spirit was deeply troubled, his spirit was grieved within him.That gives us the first step in understanding your purpose. What grieves your heart? Paul was grieved about this city wholly given over to idols. And the next verse begins with the word therefore. He did something about it.Generally, the things that grieve you in your heart are things that God has gifted you to change. They point you to your purpose.For instance, in Job 30:25, Job said, “Has not my soul grieved for the poor?” If you read Job’s story, a big part of his ministry had to do with helping the poor. It was tied to what caused his heart to grieve.Then there was David who was grieved and provoked as Goliath was taunting the Israelites. Why? David was called to be a leader and a warrior in Israel. It was a signpost pointing to his calling.What is it that provokes you in your heart? Whatever it is, do something about it.
Daily Devotional
by Shastity Ortiz
Psalm 61:2 KJV
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee. When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
As the Christmas is fast approaching I wanted to talk about something a little different and something that many are dealing with in them self or possibly a family member, depression. Depression affects people differently and people handle it differently. I know that everyone is very busy during this time but I would encourage you to pick up and call a friend that you haven’t talked to in a while, a family member, or even someone you haven’t seen at church. Take that 5 or 10 minutes to make sure they are doing okay or to let them know you still love them. It might be that call that gives them hope again.
Please see below what Dr. Harold J. Sala has to say:
Holidays and winter are a major contributor to depression, especially when they are accompanied by loneliness and separation from your family or close friends. At times medication can help those who struggle with this and thank God for that help, but often we medicate a problem or situation which can be changed, and with the change, the depression factor begins to dissipate.
If you are facing post-holiday blues bordering on depression, don’t punish yourself or think, “If I were more spiritual, I could snap out of this.” But I do suggest that you force yourself to talk to someone, letting the person know exactly how you feel. You also need to remind yourself of what you’ve probably pushed aside—your situation is not a matter of indifference to God. He knows where you are and will bring you out. You not only need to talk to someone else but also with God. In his times of despair and depression, David turned to God, who gave him deliverance. And finally, get help. To do that you’ve got to overcome the feeling that you are sliding into a pit of despair and either feel incapable of reaching out to someone or you don’t want to.
But whatever you do, don’t give up. With David, you can cry out, “When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I” Psalm 61:2
In Him,
Shastity Ortiz
by Shastity Ortiz
Psalm 61:2 KJV
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee. When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
As the Christmas is fast approaching I wanted to talk about something a little different and something that many are dealing with in them self or possibly a family member, depression. Depression affects people differently and people handle it differently. I know that everyone is very busy during this time but I would encourage you to pick up and call a friend that you haven’t talked to in a while, a family member, or even someone you haven’t seen at church. Take that 5 or 10 minutes to make sure they are doing okay or to let them know you still love them. It might be that call that gives them hope again.
Please see below what Dr. Harold J. Sala has to say:
Holidays and winter are a major contributor to depression, especially when they are accompanied by loneliness and separation from your family or close friends. At times medication can help those who struggle with this and thank God for that help, but often we medicate a problem or situation which can be changed, and with the change, the depression factor begins to dissipate.
If you are facing post-holiday blues bordering on depression, don’t punish yourself or think, “If I were more spiritual, I could snap out of this.” But I do suggest that you force yourself to talk to someone, letting the person know exactly how you feel. You also need to remind yourself of what you’ve probably pushed aside—your situation is not a matter of indifference to God. He knows where you are and will bring you out. You not only need to talk to someone else but also with God. In his times of despair and depression, David turned to God, who gave him deliverance. And finally, get help. To do that you’ve got to overcome the feeling that you are sliding into a pit of despair and either feel incapable of reaching out to someone or you don’t want to.
But whatever you do, don’t give up. With David, you can cry out, “When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I” Psalm 61:2
In Him,
Shastity Ortiz
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
"Welcome to our World"
Matthew 1:19 "Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows."
So what really happened? The scripture tells us quite a bit about Jesus birth. But, obviously not every detail. John 21:25 says, "Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." Get it? Got it! We should only claim that what was written in the Bible are the only things we know for sure happened. But the Bible itself says a lot more happened. The Christmas story has been embellished, sometimes overly so and beyond dramatic license. But, conjecture is appropriate as long as it completely jives with His Word. Many inspiring words have been written about His birth. In song and poetry too. Today I share with you inspiring words that Kim Shane shared with us in a Christmas card. Words from an Amy Grant song entitled, "Welcome to our World".
"Fragile fingers sent to heal us.
Tender Brow prepared for thorns.
Tiny heart whose blood will save us.
Unto us is born!
Welcome to our world...."
The birth of Jesus and His purpose beautifully portrayed. Hope this touches your heart like mine today, Pastor Fred
Matthew 1:19 "Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows."
So what really happened? The scripture tells us quite a bit about Jesus birth. But, obviously not every detail. John 21:25 says, "Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." Get it? Got it! We should only claim that what was written in the Bible are the only things we know for sure happened. But the Bible itself says a lot more happened. The Christmas story has been embellished, sometimes overly so and beyond dramatic license. But, conjecture is appropriate as long as it completely jives with His Word. Many inspiring words have been written about His birth. In song and poetry too. Today I share with you inspiring words that Kim Shane shared with us in a Christmas card. Words from an Amy Grant song entitled, "Welcome to our World".
"Fragile fingers sent to heal us.
Tender Brow prepared for thorns.
Tiny heart whose blood will save us.
Unto us is born!
Welcome to our world...."
The birth of Jesus and His purpose beautifully portrayed. Hope this touches your heart like mine today, Pastor Fred
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
"Just His Word"
Titus 3:4-7 "But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and the renewal by the Holy Spirit, Whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior. So that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life."
Sometimes His Word is so sufficient just like His grace, that nothing else should be added.
By His Word,
Pastor Fred
Titus 3:4-7 "But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and the renewal by the Holy Spirit, Whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior. So that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life."
Sometimes His Word is so sufficient just like His grace, that nothing else should be added.
By His Word,
Pastor Fred
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
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Friday, November 30, 2018
Provided by Brayan Becerra
Author: James Banks
Author: James Banks
One of the first prayers I learned as a little boy was “Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep . . .” It was a prayer I learned from my parents, and I taught it to my son and daughter when they were little. As a child, I found great comfort in placing myself in God’s hands with those words before I fell asleep.
There’s a similar prayer neatly tucked away in the “prayer book” of the Bible, the Psalms. Some biblical scholars suggest that the phrase “Into your hands I commit my spirit” (Psalm 31:5) was a “bedtime” prayer taught to children in Jesus’s day.
You may recognize that prayer as Jesus’s final cry from the cross. But Jesus added one more word to it: Father (Luke 23:46). By praying that word in the moments before His death, Jesus demonstrated His intimate relationship with the Father and pointed believers toward their home with Him (John 14:3).
Jesus died on the cross so we could live in the wonder of a relationship with God as our heavenly Father. How comforting it is to know that because of Jesus’s sacrificial love for us, we can rest in God’s care as His children! We can close our eyes without fear because our Father watches over us and has promised to wake us up to life with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:14).
Lord Jesus, I receive the gift of forgiveness You offer me through the cross. Help me to turn from my sins and follow You, all the way home.
By James Banks
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
"My Silence"
Psalm 62:5 "My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him."
A few reflections on this verse.
We should speak to our own souls.
We should listen and be silent until God speaks.
There is a time when we should seek God's counsel only.
He is our help, nothing and nobody else.
Waiting almost always takes some noticeable time.
God will respond, shhhhh, wait on Him.
God's response is always worth waiting for.
Waiting silently and hopefully now for Him alone,
Pastor Fred
Psalm 62:5 "My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him."
A few reflections on this verse.
We should speak to our own souls.
We should listen and be silent until God speaks.
There is a time when we should seek God's counsel only.
He is our help, nothing and nobody else.
Waiting almost always takes some noticeable time.
God will respond, shhhhh, wait on Him.
God's response is always worth waiting for.
Waiting silently and hopefully now for Him alone,
Pastor Fred
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
"What To Say When You Should Not Speak"
His grace is sufficient today and quoting His Word is all I should say today.
Colossians 1:10-18 ".. That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience, and longsuffering with joy, giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love, in Whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins."
I hope and pray this for you and me today.
With His Love,
Pastor Fred
His grace is sufficient today and quoting His Word is all I should say today.
Colossians 1:10-18 ".. That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience, and longsuffering with joy, giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love, in Whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins."
I hope and pray this for you and me today.
With His Love,
Pastor Fred
Monday, November 19, 2018
"Our Daily Burdens"
Psalm 68:19
"Blessed be the Lord who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation. Selah.
The atoning death of Christ on the cross was planned and executed to be a one-time payment price for all sin. But the grace, forgiveness, and mercy of it is almost impossible for us to actuate and actualize if we hang on to our daily burdens of unforgiveness and ingratitude. It seems we must be in the continual process of letting go and letting God. Why do we love carrying the load when we do not need to? Is it the false pride of martyrdom? Is it manipulation of those who have wronged us? Is it the sympathy or slack that we get from others? Is it really all about control? Is it lack of faith? I must be careful not to appear to be too knowledgeable about this issue, for fear of being misjudged. Oh, the burden of that. Hmmm... only Jesus can help me. But, I must relent and maybe even repent. I have never enjoyed extra weight, who does?
To close my thoughts today the word "Selah" is and has been a bit of a mystery. Could mean "a pause" or "a crescendo", or "a musical interlude". Depending on the context I have heard it say to me the variety of poignant things.
1. Shhhh or Shut my mouth.
2. Yes Lord Yes!!! or Big Amen!
3.(No words, just music that brings tears.)
Hey, take your choice, but please lay your burdens down at the foot of the cross.
See you there.
Pastor Fred
Psalm 68:19
"Blessed be the Lord who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation. Selah.
The atoning death of Christ on the cross was planned and executed to be a one-time payment price for all sin. But the grace, forgiveness, and mercy of it is almost impossible for us to actuate and actualize if we hang on to our daily burdens of unforgiveness and ingratitude. It seems we must be in the continual process of letting go and letting God. Why do we love carrying the load when we do not need to? Is it the false pride of martyrdom? Is it manipulation of those who have wronged us? Is it the sympathy or slack that we get from others? Is it really all about control? Is it lack of faith? I must be careful not to appear to be too knowledgeable about this issue, for fear of being misjudged. Oh, the burden of that. Hmmm... only Jesus can help me. But, I must relent and maybe even repent. I have never enjoyed extra weight, who does?
To close my thoughts today the word "Selah" is and has been a bit of a mystery. Could mean "a pause" or "a crescendo", or "a musical interlude". Depending on the context I have heard it say to me the variety of poignant things.
1. Shhhh or Shut my mouth.
2. Yes Lord Yes!!! or Big Amen!
3.(No words, just music that brings tears.)
Hey, take your choice, but please lay your burdens down at the foot of the cross.
See you there.
Pastor Fred
Friday, November 16, 2018
Friday Devotional: “If Only I Knew – Gentle Reminders”
I think that we all have little gems of wisdom in books just lying around our home that we keep saying we’ll get around to reading, but then just don’t make the time to follow through to do it. Well, such was the case with this little book called “If Only I Knew - Gentle Reminders to Help You Treasure the People in Your Life” (Lance Wubbels). I’ve had this little book for probably eight years or more, with it always being prominently displayed either in the bedroom, family room, or bathroom, making sure to keep it in plain view with full intent to read it when “I had a chance”. At this point, I’m not even sure where I got the book, as it’s not inscribed, so I likely purchased it years ago just because the title caught my eye.
There is a time for everything (I think God mentions that somewhere in the Bible), so the time for me to finally completely read this little book came Monday of this week as I took a break from getting our home set up for my husband’s upcoming Chess Club Night on Tuesday. The one thing upon which we can all agree is that life is for sure uncertain, so I don’t think it was by sheer coincidence that my eyes happened upon the book lying there, as I don’t think that something is just a coincidence. The realities of life’s uncertainties are all around us, as we witness senseless shootings and killings, and other violence, the devastation brought about by illegal drug use, loss of life and property due to natural disasters, homelessness, illnesses and diseases, hatred and divisiveness brought on by political party affiliations, accidents, and the list goes on. The author summed it up best this way in the book’s preface: “Someone once said ‘life is short, so keep short accounts with God.’ That is wise advice, but I’d like to add that we should also keep short accounts with every person who is in the circle of our lives. We never know when life will be dramatically changed . . . sometimes permanently.” (Romans 12:10-18).
I obviously cannot share the entire book, though I’d like to, but I do want to share just a few of the “If Only I Knew” passages for you to get a flavor for the book, and would highly recommend it to you for purchase. The following were some of my favorites (actually, they were all my favorites): If only I knew this was our last hug, I would hold you tight and hope to never let you go; If only I knew I had the chance to pray with you one more time, I would take your hands and welcome God’s presence to surround us; If only I knew that disagreements do not mean lack of love, I would have been hurt less often; If only I knew that no one ever sees the same thing in exactly the same light, I would have found more pleasure in others’ opinions, even when they did not share mine; If only I knew that momentary pleasures could ruin a reputation for a lifetime, I would have found the strength to say no to temptation; If only I knew I could never share another day with you, I would make the most of every second; If only I knew that success is never measured in dollars or positions, I would have treasured the things that last forever. I’ll end with this one: If only I knew my days were coming to an end, I would number them carefully, one by one, and ask God to help me make the best use of my time because the days are far too fleeting.
So that you won’t have to look it up, I’ve decided to go ahead and share Romans 12:10-18 because it’s a fitting closing for this devotional. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly and sisterly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice. Mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
I hope that these “gentle reminders” might speak to our hearts and cause all of us to focus on the special people in our lives and treasure them. Have a very blessings-filled weekend and week to follow. We invite and welcome you to join us Sundays at Grace Harbor for Adult Bible Study at 9:00 a.m., where currently the study is “How to Know God and Experience the Power of His Resurrection in Our Lives”, and Sunday Worship Service, and Children’s Sunday School at 10:00 a.m.
Love In Him, Charlotte Adams
I think that we all have little gems of wisdom in books just lying around our home that we keep saying we’ll get around to reading, but then just don’t make the time to follow through to do it. Well, such was the case with this little book called “If Only I Knew - Gentle Reminders to Help You Treasure the People in Your Life” (Lance Wubbels). I’ve had this little book for probably eight years or more, with it always being prominently displayed either in the bedroom, family room, or bathroom, making sure to keep it in plain view with full intent to read it when “I had a chance”. At this point, I’m not even sure where I got the book, as it’s not inscribed, so I likely purchased it years ago just because the title caught my eye.
There is a time for everything (I think God mentions that somewhere in the Bible), so the time for me to finally completely read this little book came Monday of this week as I took a break from getting our home set up for my husband’s upcoming Chess Club Night on Tuesday. The one thing upon which we can all agree is that life is for sure uncertain, so I don’t think it was by sheer coincidence that my eyes happened upon the book lying there, as I don’t think that something is just a coincidence. The realities of life’s uncertainties are all around us, as we witness senseless shootings and killings, and other violence, the devastation brought about by illegal drug use, loss of life and property due to natural disasters, homelessness, illnesses and diseases, hatred and divisiveness brought on by political party affiliations, accidents, and the list goes on. The author summed it up best this way in the book’s preface: “Someone once said ‘life is short, so keep short accounts with God.’ That is wise advice, but I’d like to add that we should also keep short accounts with every person who is in the circle of our lives. We never know when life will be dramatically changed . . . sometimes permanently.” (Romans 12:10-18).
I obviously cannot share the entire book, though I’d like to, but I do want to share just a few of the “If Only I Knew” passages for you to get a flavor for the book, and would highly recommend it to you for purchase. The following were some of my favorites (actually, they were all my favorites): If only I knew this was our last hug, I would hold you tight and hope to never let you go; If only I knew I had the chance to pray with you one more time, I would take your hands and welcome God’s presence to surround us; If only I knew that disagreements do not mean lack of love, I would have been hurt less often; If only I knew that no one ever sees the same thing in exactly the same light, I would have found more pleasure in others’ opinions, even when they did not share mine; If only I knew that momentary pleasures could ruin a reputation for a lifetime, I would have found the strength to say no to temptation; If only I knew I could never share another day with you, I would make the most of every second; If only I knew that success is never measured in dollars or positions, I would have treasured the things that last forever. I’ll end with this one: If only I knew my days were coming to an end, I would number them carefully, one by one, and ask God to help me make the best use of my time because the days are far too fleeting.
So that you won’t have to look it up, I’ve decided to go ahead and share Romans 12:10-18 because it’s a fitting closing for this devotional. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly and sisterly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice. Mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
I hope that these “gentle reminders” might speak to our hearts and cause all of us to focus on the special people in our lives and treasure them. Have a very blessings-filled weekend and week to follow. We invite and welcome you to join us Sundays at Grace Harbor for Adult Bible Study at 9:00 a.m., where currently the study is “How to Know God and Experience the Power of His Resurrection in Our Lives”, and Sunday Worship Service, and Children’s Sunday School at 10:00 a.m.
Love In Him, Charlotte Adams
Thursday, November 15, 2018
"How To Bless"
3 John 1:12
"Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul."
It is not just Paul that has such a sweet and tender side. John also expresses repeatedly a sincere affection for believers. For us. We would do well to learn these encouraging verses. The word beloved is archaic and seldom used in everyday talk, but it sure conveys something beautiful. Maybe we should bring the word back into vogue. We too should remind others we are praying for them. Praying for their health and well-being. Not just on a surface level, but down deep in their souls. Let me steal from Scripture, after all it is so quotable.
"Beloved, I pray today that it is going well with you, that you are in good health and that you are aware in your soul of how deeply blessed you are." I sure am,
Pastor Fred
3 John 1:12
"Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul."
It is not just Paul that has such a sweet and tender side. John also expresses repeatedly a sincere affection for believers. For us. We would do well to learn these encouraging verses. The word beloved is archaic and seldom used in everyday talk, but it sure conveys something beautiful. Maybe we should bring the word back into vogue. We too should remind others we are praying for them. Praying for their health and well-being. Not just on a surface level, but down deep in their souls. Let me steal from Scripture, after all it is so quotable.
"Beloved, I pray today that it is going well with you, that you are in good health and that you are aware in your soul of how deeply blessed you are." I sure am,
Pastor Fred
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
"Working Out"
Philippians 2:12-13
"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure."
We must be careful when we interpret the words "working out our salvation". The term does not mean we can earn our salvation. We have no part in the true reconciling work of forgiveness… only the blood of Jesus Christ can do that. But we are called to work out what God has worked in. This is called "the divine cooperative". In the Greek, to work out describes those who worked in the mines. They mined out of the ground what the Creator had placed there and then brought those riches into the light. The work of God delivers the gift of salvation to us. We then take that gift by the power of the Holy Spirit and diligently work to perfect ourselves as followers of Christ. How are you cooperating in that process today? I am working on it.
By His grace,
Pastor Fred
Philippians 2:12-13
"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure."
We must be careful when we interpret the words "working out our salvation". The term does not mean we can earn our salvation. We have no part in the true reconciling work of forgiveness… only the blood of Jesus Christ can do that. But we are called to work out what God has worked in. This is called "the divine cooperative". In the Greek, to work out describes those who worked in the mines. They mined out of the ground what the Creator had placed there and then brought those riches into the light. The work of God delivers the gift of salvation to us. We then take that gift by the power of the Holy Spirit and diligently work to perfect ourselves as followers of Christ. How are you cooperating in that process today? I am working on it.
By His grace,
Pastor Fred
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
"Peaceful Reconciliation"
Colossians 1:19-20
"For it pleased the Father that in Him (Jesus) all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross."
The only true and lasting peaceful reconciliation we can attain in this life or the next is through His atoning blood. It glorifies and pleases God that we find peace. His peace, the kind that passes understanding. In order to find peace, we must have a way to deal with sin. We are battling in a fallen world and the struggle is real and intense. We must be able to get into His presence so we sense Him dwelling in us. Then we must accept His reconciling grace over whatever it is that conflicts us. This necessitates our yielding, acquiescence and even surrender over and over again. We must claim or reclaim the ground or progress He has made for us. As the phrase says, Let go and let God. I pray today that you will know His peaceful reconciliation.
In Him,
Pastor Fred
Colossians 1:19-20
"For it pleased the Father that in Him (Jesus) all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross."
The only true and lasting peaceful reconciliation we can attain in this life or the next is through His atoning blood. It glorifies and pleases God that we find peace. His peace, the kind that passes understanding. In order to find peace, we must have a way to deal with sin. We are battling in a fallen world and the struggle is real and intense. We must be able to get into His presence so we sense Him dwelling in us. Then we must accept His reconciling grace over whatever it is that conflicts us. This necessitates our yielding, acquiescence and even surrender over and over again. We must claim or reclaim the ground or progress He has made for us. As the phrase says, Let go and let God. I pray today that you will know His peaceful reconciliation.
In Him,
Pastor Fred
Monday, November 12, 2018
"He Sees It All" by Angie Wahl
This is from a Bible Study on Managing Emotions Through Psalms
"The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling, He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; He fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works." Psalm 33:13-15
Sometimes I can feel like God is so involved with the big things in the world and even my life that he doesn't have time for the little things. Things that are not life changing but create pain or concern or angst in my everyday life. These verses indicate this is not true. He sees ALL his children at all times and "considers" all works. That word, considers, in the Hebrew means to look at separately, to know, to understand, look well into. He considers all things in our life, even the small things and provides the support and answers we need. Verse 20 of this Psalm says he is our help and our shield.
Note this verse is present tense. He is actively aware of our lives, our work, our struggles, and concerns now, as it occurs, in real time.
Joyfully in His presence,
Angie Wahl
This is from a Bible Study on Managing Emotions Through Psalms
"The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling, He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; He fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works." Psalm 33:13-15
Sometimes I can feel like God is so involved with the big things in the world and even my life that he doesn't have time for the little things. Things that are not life changing but create pain or concern or angst in my everyday life. These verses indicate this is not true. He sees ALL his children at all times and "considers" all works. That word, considers, in the Hebrew means to look at separately, to know, to understand, look well into. He considers all things in our life, even the small things and provides the support and answers we need. Verse 20 of this Psalm says he is our help and our shield.
Note this verse is present tense. He is actively aware of our lives, our work, our struggles, and concerns now, as it occurs, in real time.
Joyfully in His presence,
Angie Wahl
Thursday, November 8, 2018
"How Thankfulness Works"
1Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
Life is full of curve balls, but it's also full of blessings. We don't get to pick what comes our way, but we do get to choose how we respond. And it's our response that can result and healthy living and satisfaction in our souls. Here's how it works physiologically... The emotions of joy and anxiety travel the same pathway in the brain. This means that if you choose joy, there is literally no room for worry in your brain. You can literally kick worry and negativity out!
So how do you choose joy? By giving thanks. By remembering all the good things that have happened, including the good things that have come out of the hard things. Cynicism will tempt you to think, "That's shallow and simplistic. I'm a realist, and life is hard!" Don't go there, OK? Cynicism turns people into miserable curmudgeons. Gratitude lifts our spirits and makes us a joy to be around. It's contagious, plus, it's commanded in scripture. "Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Sound familiar? God's will for you is gratitude, and gratitude will change your world. It won't hurt anybody else's either.
With joy,
Pastor Fred
1Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
Life is full of curve balls, but it's also full of blessings. We don't get to pick what comes our way, but we do get to choose how we respond. And it's our response that can result and healthy living and satisfaction in our souls. Here's how it works physiologically... The emotions of joy and anxiety travel the same pathway in the brain. This means that if you choose joy, there is literally no room for worry in your brain. You can literally kick worry and negativity out!
So how do you choose joy? By giving thanks. By remembering all the good things that have happened, including the good things that have come out of the hard things. Cynicism will tempt you to think, "That's shallow and simplistic. I'm a realist, and life is hard!" Don't go there, OK? Cynicism turns people into miserable curmudgeons. Gratitude lifts our spirits and makes us a joy to be around. It's contagious, plus, it's commanded in scripture. "Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Sound familiar? God's will for you is gratitude, and gratitude will change your world. It won't hurt anybody else's either.
With joy,
Pastor Fred
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
"Good and Evil"
Roman's 12:21 "Don't let evil conquer you. But conquer evil by doing good."
Lots of wisdom here. We would all agree that we see and hear evil in the world today. I don't even need to describe it. We are taught to resist evil. We certainly should not promote it or spread it. We must be on guard. Evil can be bold and obvious, or subtle and clandestine. Simplest solution to the dilemma of identifying evil is to ask God. "God, is this of you, from you or for you? There may be far more evil than we initially think. The hardest parts of scripture image always the action item parts. We may avoid evil defensively. But will we proactively promote good? That is our kingdom assignment. Do good. Think good, then act out on that good thinking.
So today I will resist evil and nor let it plague me or conquer me. I will do good thereby conquering evil. The battle is on. The lines are drawn. Choose who you will serve today. We are more than conquerors through Christ who strengthens us. So be strong and seize your day, for good.
Like the saying says, "for goodness sake".
Pastor Fred
Lots of wisdom here. We would all agree that we see and hear evil in the world today. I don't even need to describe it. We are taught to resist evil. We certainly should not promote it or spread it. We must be on guard. Evil can be bold and obvious, or subtle and clandestine. Simplest solution to the dilemma of identifying evil is to ask God. "God, is this of you, from you or for you? There may be far more evil than we initially think. The hardest parts of scripture image always the action item parts. We may avoid evil defensively. But will we proactively promote good? That is our kingdom assignment. Do good. Think good, then act out on that good thinking.
So today I will resist evil and nor let it plague me or conquer me. I will do good thereby conquering evil. The battle is on. The lines are drawn. Choose who you will serve today. We are more than conquerors through Christ who strengthens us. So be strong and seize your day, for good.
Like the saying says, "for goodness sake".
Pastor Fred
Monday, November 5, 2018
"What We Do Not Know"
Ecclesiastes 11:5 "Just as you do not know the path of the wind, or how the bones form in the womb of a pregnant woman, so you do not know the work of God who knows everything."
As His Word also says, our ways are not His ways. I am more often reminded now that I am somewhat more mature, exactly how little I know. No offense to science, but there are mysteries that will never be understood. Mysteries to us, but God knows. He is omniscient. All-knowing. Perfect. We think ourselves to be so brilliant. So perceptive. So bright. But He is light. He is truth. There will always be understanding that is simply beyond us. So why do we keep talking? We just keep guessing. We keep claiming to know more than we do. God is working right now. He never sleeps. He is constantly aware of everything on all levels and from all vantage points. Just for a moment, bask in His perfection. I am undone. I am once again driven to my knees. I am overwhelmed by Him and His grace and His love. Especially for me.
In Him,
Pastor Fred
As His Word also says, our ways are not His ways. I am more often reminded now that I am somewhat more mature, exactly how little I know. No offense to science, but there are mysteries that will never be understood. Mysteries to us, but God knows. He is omniscient. All-knowing. Perfect. We think ourselves to be so brilliant. So perceptive. So bright. But He is light. He is truth. There will always be understanding that is simply beyond us. So why do we keep talking? We just keep guessing. We keep claiming to know more than we do. God is working right now. He never sleeps. He is constantly aware of everything on all levels and from all vantage points. Just for a moment, bask in His perfection. I am undone. I am once again driven to my knees. I am overwhelmed by Him and His grace and His love. Especially for me.
In Him,
Pastor Fred
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