FEAR: FALSE EXPECTATIONS APPEARING to be REAL
June 1, 2020
DO NOT QUIT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TEST!
DO NOT QUIT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TEST!
January 26, 2020
Today’s Quote: “I fear that in some cases we have begged this wild Spirit of God to stay away from us so we can play our tame version of church without His unexpected interruptions.” ~J. Lee Grady
Nov. 29, 2018
This quote was brought to my attention the other day and it sure gave me some food for thought.
"If sinners be dammed, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies and if they perish let then perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions and let not one go unwarned and un-prayed for". Who has God told you to pray for? Is there someone in your life, a family member, a co worker, a neighbor that God is placing on your heart to reach out to? If this person were to die today, would you be alright with the thought of them going to Hell? John 3:17 says that He did not come into this world to condemn it but to save it. Are you reading this and you are NOT positive where you are going when your time here on earth is done? I implore you to call out to God. He's there waiting to hear from you. Call us at the church, stop in, join us for Worship and get a peace that passes all understanding.
March 16, 2018 Christ is You
CSCMA family, we are getting ready to begin a new series in Colossians called “Christ in You.” When a person comes to Christ they enter into an eternal union with Him. We describe this union as Christ in us and us in Christ. This is a real union. It’s not merely an intellectual or theological union. It’s a relationship that is transformative. The apostle Paul and Timothy allude to this relationship as they write in their letter, “To the saints [believers] and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae” (Col. 1:2a). Clearly, the writers emphasize the believer’s relationship as one of union, you “in Christ” (Col. 1:28) and “Christ in you”(Col. 1:27).
“In Christ” believers have a “new identity.” They are “no longer dead” but are “made alive in Christ.” Believers are made new not because of the righteous things they have done but because of Christ who “became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption so that, as it is written, ‘Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord’” (I Cor. 1:30-31). Believers are to boast on the ground of their justification, the redemptive work of Christ. This boasting speaks of our “new identity”, “in Christ.” Paul and Timothy speak of this new identity to the Colossians as follows: believers have been made new (Col. 3:10), with a “new heart” (Col. 3:10) a “new mind” (Col. 3:2), and a “new way of life” (Col. 1:2).
“Christ in you,” as believers, brings you this central truth of your union with Him. First, you have a “new identity” and second “His presence” in your life. Christ’s presence provides believers with a “living hope” (Col. 1:27) in a world filled with sin, confusion of identity and lies from the enemy. Christ in believers makes all the difference in victorious christian living. It is Christ who indwells believers empowering them to overcome this world and to lead a “life of worship” (Rom. 12:1-2).
The believer’s “new identity” (“Christ in you [them]”) coupled with instruction from the Word of God provides the empowerment to resist false teaching and to overcome sinful desires. Paul and Timothy affirm this as follows:
Delroy Simpson,
Lead Pastor
January 5, 2018 AVAILABILITY
AVAILABILITY: Means the quality or state of being available; present and ready for use. This morning when the alarm on my phone went off and woke me up the word AVAILABILITY came to mind. I then asked myself the following question: Do I make myself available to be used by God each day? At that moment, I heard this still voice: What about today? Are you willing to make yourself available to be used by Me to show the world my unconditional love in a selfless way?
Each day presents us with the opportunity to share the LOVE OF CHRIST with others. The question is: Do we make use of everyday and every opportunity to reach out to people around us and share the LOVE OF CHRIST. When God stir our hearts to do something, do we say to Him let me check my schedule to see if I’m available. Or, do we say like Isaiah, “…Here I am! Send me” (Is. 6:8).
God wants us to present ourselves to Him each and every day as a “living sacrifice” (Rom. 12:1). God does not say that we should present our agenda to Him each day (not that we can’t ask him to bless the things we do on a daily basis). He wants US not just our agenda. It’s easy to present our agenda because we want to be in control. When we present ourselves to Him we begin to lose control and He begins to use us in immeasurable ways.
My friends, if we desire to reach the lost with the gospel, share the truths of Scripture, and bring glory to God we have to die to self and live for God. It’s called “AVAILABILITY.” Are you available to be used by God today?
Delroy Simpson
Lead Pastor
This quote was brought to my attention the other day and it sure gave me some food for thought.
"If sinners be dammed, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies and if they perish let then perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions and let not one go unwarned and un-prayed for". Who has God told you to pray for? Is there someone in your life, a family member, a co worker, a neighbor that God is placing on your heart to reach out to? If this person were to die today, would you be alright with the thought of them going to Hell? John 3:17 says that He did not come into this world to condemn it but to save it. Are you reading this and you are NOT positive where you are going when your time here on earth is done? I implore you to call out to God. He's there waiting to hear from you. Call us at the church, stop in, join us for Worship and get a peace that passes all understanding.
March 16, 2018 Christ is You
CSCMA family, we are getting ready to begin a new series in Colossians called “Christ in You.” When a person comes to Christ they enter into an eternal union with Him. We describe this union as Christ in us and us in Christ. This is a real union. It’s not merely an intellectual or theological union. It’s a relationship that is transformative. The apostle Paul and Timothy allude to this relationship as they write in their letter, “To the saints [believers] and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae” (Col. 1:2a). Clearly, the writers emphasize the believer’s relationship as one of union, you “in Christ” (Col. 1:28) and “Christ in you”(Col. 1:27).
“In Christ” believers have a “new identity.” They are “no longer dead” but are “made alive in Christ.” Believers are made new not because of the righteous things they have done but because of Christ who “became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption so that, as it is written, ‘Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord’” (I Cor. 1:30-31). Believers are to boast on the ground of their justification, the redemptive work of Christ. This boasting speaks of our “new identity”, “in Christ.” Paul and Timothy speak of this new identity to the Colossians as follows: believers have been made new (Col. 3:10), with a “new heart” (Col. 3:10) a “new mind” (Col. 3:2), and a “new way of life” (Col. 1:2).
“Christ in you,” as believers, brings you this central truth of your union with Him. First, you have a “new identity” and second “His presence” in your life. Christ’s presence provides believers with a “living hope” (Col. 1:27) in a world filled with sin, confusion of identity and lies from the enemy. Christ in believers makes all the difference in victorious christian living. It is Christ who indwells believers empowering them to overcome this world and to lead a “life of worship” (Rom. 12:1-2).
The believer’s “new identity” (“Christ in you [them]”) coupled with instruction from the Word of God provides the empowerment to resist false teaching and to overcome sinful desires. Paul and Timothy affirm this as follows:
- “I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments” (Col. 2:4).
- “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ” (Col: 2:8).
- “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath” (Col. 2:16)
- Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God” (Col. 2:18-19).
- “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful” (Col. 3:15).
- “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Col. 3:16)
- “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person” (Col. 4:6).
Delroy Simpson,
Lead Pastor
January 5, 2018 AVAILABILITY
AVAILABILITY: Means the quality or state of being available; present and ready for use. This morning when the alarm on my phone went off and woke me up the word AVAILABILITY came to mind. I then asked myself the following question: Do I make myself available to be used by God each day? At that moment, I heard this still voice: What about today? Are you willing to make yourself available to be used by Me to show the world my unconditional love in a selfless way?
Each day presents us with the opportunity to share the LOVE OF CHRIST with others. The question is: Do we make use of everyday and every opportunity to reach out to people around us and share the LOVE OF CHRIST. When God stir our hearts to do something, do we say to Him let me check my schedule to see if I’m available. Or, do we say like Isaiah, “…Here I am! Send me” (Is. 6:8).
God wants us to present ourselves to Him each and every day as a “living sacrifice” (Rom. 12:1). God does not say that we should present our agenda to Him each day (not that we can’t ask him to bless the things we do on a daily basis). He wants US not just our agenda. It’s easy to present our agenda because we want to be in control. When we present ourselves to Him we begin to lose control and He begins to use us in immeasurable ways.
My friends, if we desire to reach the lost with the gospel, share the truths of Scripture, and bring glory to God we have to die to self and live for God. It’s called “AVAILABILITY.” Are you available to be used by God today?
Delroy Simpson
Lead Pastor
September 12, 2017 Follow The Shepherd
Are you tired, frustrated, confused, and feel as if there’s no hope? Well, Jesus can change your paths and direct your life in such a way that will bring you hope, peace, and satisfaction. Jesus is “The Good Shepherd”, the One who laid down His life and picked it up again for His Sheep (Jn. 10). The fact that Jesus died for His sheep (people) shows us how much of value we (His Sheep) are to Him.
In Psalm 23, David shows us how the Lord is our Shepherd. It’s a Psalm that’s written from a sheep’s perspective. It doesn’t matter where you are in life Psalm 23 will remind you and bring you back to the reality that the Lord (Jehovah) is our Shepherd. The Lord is a loving, caring, protective Provider for His Sheep. Furthermore, He watches and will never leave His sheep.
Join us in our current series “Follow the Shepherd.” Our responsibility, as sheep, is to follow Jesus “The Good Shepherd.” This series consist of seven parts:
“The Lord is My Shepherd”
“He Leads Me”
“He Restores my Soul”
“Fear No Evil”
“He Makes Provision”
“Goodness and Mercy”
“In the House of The Lord”
“Trust in the LORD [ The good shepherd] with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Pro. 3:5-6).
Delroy Simpson
Lead Pastor
August 2, 2017 GOD ALLOWS U-TURNS
Not too long ago I took a trip and met up with a friend I hadn't seen in a while. We met in an unfamiliar town and decided to site-see one afternoon. We took the GPS and wandered out for an adventure. Well, you know that even having the GPS on sometimes we missed the turn or passed something we wanted to check out. What do we do? Yup, make a U-turn. Go back and try it again. Here we go again...another u-turn. shortly after being back home I came across a tract that simply read "God allows u-turns" I started to laugh, thinking about my recent adventure with my friend and then I thought, Praise the Lord He does! Think about it. We serve a God who is loving, kind and forgiving. We all make mistakes, the Bible says "all have sinned, and fall short of the glories of God" Romans 3:23. The bible also states that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" 1 John 1:9. No matter what we have done, no matter where we have been, it is never too late to change direction, because God Allows U-turns!
June 22, 2017 Proverbs 23: 22-25
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
23 Buy the truth and do not sell it--
wisdom, instruction and insight as well.
24 The father of a righteous child has great joy;
a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.
25 May your father and mother rejoice;
may she who gave you birth be joyful!
May 30, 2017 How to Love Others InTouch Ministries
Matthew 22:35-40
Jesus told His disciples, “In everything ... treat people the same way you want them to treat you” (Matt. 7:12). Most of us refer to this code of conduct as the Golden Rule.
In theory, we’d probably agree that this is a good foundation for a healthy relationship. Yet it’s tough to live up to such a standard. If we made a list of the ways we hope to be treated and compared it with our own behavior, we’d likely fall short.
And of course, it’s easy to love when others treat us well. But how do we respond when their behavior is hurtful or unpleasant? The truth is, Jesus meant for us to love others all the time, not just when they’re lovable. Regardless of their attitude toward us, we are to think about the relationship qualities we value—like loyalty, trust, encouragement, forgiveness, acceptance, and protection—and let these flow from us in the other person’s direction.
Unfortunately, our society breeds selfishness, greed, and pride, which are enemies of the love Jesus commanded. But when we care for others in the way the Lord prescribes, relationships can thrive and deepen.
Treating others with this kind of love isn’t natural or easy, especially when people are unkind. In fact, loving as Jesus commanded is impossible on our own. But when we trust Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit empowers us and lives His life through us.
Take time to list the ways you hope others will treat you. Then ask, Is that how I treat people? Pray for God to reveal one area where He will help you apply the Golden Rule.
April 26, 2017
5 Things Church is Not About Janna Wrightgracethread.com
So, how do you feel about church?
Oh, not what you’re supposed to think or what you’re expected to say, but your honest, gut reaction.
I imagine you have some pretty solid opinions on the subject. If I asked you to tell me about it, you might mention the kid’s ministry or the worship time. Perhaps you’d tell me it’s not as important as it used to be. Or maybe you’d excitedly share about your small group or your favorite preacher.
And I would probably nod and say, “I hear ya’!” because I’ve grown up in church and have my own settled beliefs on the subject.
Truth is, if we posed that opening question to a roomful of Christians, the answers would probably be as varied as the number of people in the room.
We Christians tend to be opinionated about church. We know what we like and what we don’t. (And sometimes we get a bit worked up about it too!) So, who’s right? Is church about the preaching? The music? The programs? The outreach? When we talk about church, it’s natural to become focused on what we do or don’t enjoy.
But I wonder in all of the opinionating if perhaps we’ve overlooked something important—what church is not about.
Church is not about:
1. A single person
Church is not all about a single person. It’s not about the pastor, or the greeter, or the perfect worship leader. And truthfully, church isn’t even all about you!
Church is bigger than one person because Christ called the church a body. A body of believers who gather together as family. A group of Christians who choose to be in one place so they can worship Jesus together, focusing on Him. (Romans 12:4-5)
2. A group of identical, perfect people
Church is not about finding a community of people who think the same way you do about every tiny detail. It’s not about finding a place where everyone has it all together all of the time. You can expect to find some broken, redeemed people who have differing opinions about the activities, the music, the way we should do such and such. You will find people with different gifts and abilities and thoughts about life. Church is not supposed to be a perfect, everybody’s-identical place.
Church is a place for loved on, not-quite-perfect-yet people to gather in grace and celebrate Jesus together. A place to be loved on for who you are and how God made you. A place to use your God-given talents to serve each other. A place to applaud the grace we’ve been given in Christ and can now extend to each other with joy. No perfection required. (1 Corinthians 12:12,18)
3. The peripherals
Let’s be honest. It’s fun to grab a vanilla latte on the way to your cushy theater seat in a nicely heated auditorium with a blow-your-hair-back sound system. We won’t complain that the kids thrive in the specialized kids’ program or that the new activity center is going to reach the community in a big way.
But church is not about peripherals like the building, the programs, or the activities. Sure, those things are nice, but they’re just that – nice peripherals.
Church is about the main thing – Jesus. It’s an opportunity to worship Him together, a chance to remind ourselves of the truth about Him, and a place to refresh one another with that same truth. While it can be fun to do that with big buildings, gourmet coffees, and a full calendar, those are just bonuses that should never become the main focus. (Colossians 1:18-19)
4. Christian entertainment
I once visited a church where right before the sermon, the worship band performed a rousing rendition of “We are the Champions.”
After reading that sentence you are most likely in one of two camps: Camp “That’s awesome!” or Camp “How Inappropriate.”
There are many ways to worship Jesus and communicate the truth about Him. Some churches choose to show videos. Others wouldn’t be caught dead with a screen up front. Some give rousing concerts. Others don’t even use a single instrument.
Whether you think technology is a marvelous thing or catch yourself muttering “Videos, media, and music, oh my!”, church is not actually about entertainment. Church is about gathering together for worship and building up the body of believers. (Ephesians 4:15-16)
5. The only place to hear from God
Hopefully you have a church that preaches God’s Word and creates an atmosphere where you can “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). A place where you feel connected to God and at home with other believers at the same time. And a place where you hear from God often.
But church is not the only place to hear from God. That’s one reason God lovingly preserved His Word for us—the Love Letter from the Author of Truth himself. God longs to show you more of Himself every single day. He is with you right now, ready to reveal more of Himself to you. While a church atmosphere and teaching may help, God loves to connect with you the other six days of the week too! Yup, He loves you that much.
So, at church and all the days in between, may our focus be most on God’s truth and our hearts turned toward Jesus.
April 10, 2017 Want to Believe, BUT…By Dr. Tim Clinton
“You face your greatest opposition when you’re closest to your biggest miracle.” Bishop T. D. Jakes
“When it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow.” G. K. Chesterton
Often, the most powerful, life-changing miracles seem to happen in the “buts” of life.
Consider the story of Naaman. 2 Kings 5:1 describes him with glowing accolades.
Commander of the army of the king of Syria.
A great man with his master.
High favor.
A mighty man of valor.
Then out of nowhere – life-altering words.
But…he was a leper.
Think about that. Leprosy. The most dreaded disease of his day. A visible outward malady that in reality defined who he was. Putrefying infected sores that in time caused loss of fingers, toes, nose. Everyone who came in contact with him saw the miserable condition he carried with him everywhere he went. There was no hiding it.
Many Christ followers understand this reality in their own journey. No doubt, many of you are living there right now.
You love God, and you really do believe that God loves you. You read the Word, pray, give your tithes and offerings, attend worship services, desiring to obey and walk in His Spirit.
But…
The doctor gave you terminal news.
But…
Your spouse left and the hole in your heart grows deeper and wider by the hour.
But…
Your position at work was eliminated, as was your pay check, and you find yourself in the unemployment line.
But…
A son or a daughter rejected a lifetime of nurture and admonition and the relationship is strained, broken and seemingly destroyed.
“Buts” that now seem to define who you are. “Buts” that perhaps even cause you to question God and His plan, much less His goodness. “Buts” that understandably cause you to ask “Where are you God?”
Let’s look again at the well-known Bible story of Naaman. At the recommendation of a young slave girl, he travels to find the prophet Elisha. Elisha sends a servant out to instruct Naaman to go and wash seven times in the Jordan. Albeit reluctantly, and even with quite a bit of raging about how irrational the command is, he obeys.
I wonder how Naaman felt after he dunked himself the first time. No change. The second time. No change. Third time. No change. After number six, he might have been thinking that this was a horrible joke and a waste of time. The anger he had initially felt was returning. Someone was going to pay for this public act of embarrassment.
Have you been there? Faith…trust…obedience…and seemingly no change. You find yourself confused, distraught, and perhaps even a bit angry at God.
Then Naaman dipped the seventh time and “his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” 2 Kings 5:14 ESV
He went back to the “man of God”, stood before him and declared, (now) “I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel…” 2 Kings 5:15 ESV
God was in the midst of his pain. Faithfully at work in the “but” of Naaman’s life. Steadfast in His in plan in Naaman’s journey, which ultimately brought Him glory.
And God is in the midst of your pain also. He hasn’t forgotten you. He hasn’t forsaken you. He is faithfully working in the plan of your life, and He will ultimately get glory by taking your story and making it His story.
Don’t be defined by the “but” in your pilgrimage. Don’t give up. Keep believing that He is God, and that He is good.
Your miracle could be just one more “dip in the Jordan” away.
A miracle that will turn your life around.
March 24, 2017 Let It Happen
... I told her about Jesus. And she got mad! I know God is changing her heart. And that hurts. I'd like to make it better. But I won't. I will get out of God's way. I will let God plow her up, so He can plant new seed in her. Soon Jesus will grow tall and strong in her broken heart. ~"He must increase, but I must decrease" John 3:30
This was a little devotional I had come across and it spoke to me during this season in my life. How often do we get in God's way of what He is doing and think that we can help push things along. Pray and let God do what God needs to do, stay out of His way. He's got this!
March 10, 2017 Broken Chains By Sandell Snyder
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. Isaiah 61: 1b (NIV)
My new friend shared his story from the podium of the crowded church. As he described his deliverance from a life of crime and certain death, the power and love of God were undeniable. God had literally freed him from captivity — physically, emotionally and spiritually.
It had taken time, several years, for God to draw him out of the habits and relationships that held him back for so long, and he was humble enough to admit that he still occasionally battles the temptation to return to that familiar life. But something had changed. The truth of Jesus had broken the chains of those patterns and set him free. Experiencing freedom in God had changed him and compelled him to share his story, his testimony, so that others might be set free too.
I was briefly encouraged by my friend’s testimony and its clear illustration of God’s intervention. Stories like this naturally inspire faith and move us to seek God and His will for us. That’s why He wants us to share them. But then the subtle chains of doubt and judgment tightened around my heart. Compared to the story being told, my life seemed so ordinary and uninspiring. Compared to… ugh. I was doing it again, allowing the whispers of the enemy to distract me from the truth. Feeling the temptation to slide back into the darkness of captivity.
At that moment, the pastor interrupted my thoughts by summarizing the core message of the day; “If we don’t have a testimony, we haven’t yet found our liberty.” Something about that statement got my attention.
I realized that I was relating to the idea of deliverance as it applied to my friend, but not fully embracing it for myself. I was understanding with my ‘head’ that Jesus came to proclaim freedom for the captives, but there were still some areas of my heart that were not living in that freedom. Somewhere along the way I lost sight of the truth that my savior has broken every chain and that my chains may not be the same as someone else’s. I became blind to the ways in which the enemy tries to draw me back into captivity. I allowed chains of fear, judgment or un-forgiveness to bind me and silence my story. I believed the lie that I do not have a story to tell.
The truth is that Jesus came and broke the chains of sin and death for us. Every single one of us, every single chain. The absence of imminent danger does not diminish the reality of our need for deliverance. The internal or less visible nature of some chains does not make their breaking any less powerful.
Regardless of its form, God is proclaiming freedom and light into your place of captivity today. He has broken that chain, you are free. Let that freedom change you. Embrace it fully, step out into it and share the power of that testimony with someone else.
To Go, or Not to Go… to Church? By Nathan Tabor
To go or not to go to church … that question has been a hard one for me for 10-plus years now. I grew up a preacher’s kid, and I had been involved in church all of my life. As I grew older and, in my mind, wiser, I started to see behind the curtain a bit. And what I saw, I didn’t like.
I didn’t like the hypocrisy of seeing people say one thing, yet do another. I didn’t like the legalism or judgmental attitude of others. Over time, I settled into a mindset that I could have a great walk with God and a relationship with Jesus as long as I kept both my quiet time and my prayer life alive… as long as I did it my way.
Do you feel like that? Are you currently in this mindset?
Occasionally, I would venture out and visit a church here and there. But I never felt completely comfortable with one aspect or another. There was always something that I allowed to keep me away.
Over the years, I also used other excuses not to attend church: I was tired after a long week of work or that I needed to spend time with my family. But I never used these excuses when it was something I wanted to do, like go work out at the gym or take a vacation.
Basically, I had used one excuse or another to not get involved in any church.
What I finally came to realize and understand is that behind my own curtain, I was being a hypocrite too. Yes, I admit it! Behind my own curtain, I was judging others for their attitudes or for what they had done or not done.
Here’s the truth: everyone has issues. Every church has issues. Churches are run by people. And people are humans, and humans are sinners, myself included.
The difference between them and me was simple: they were at least trying to observe fellowship with other Christians and to serve the Lord.
It really started to weigh on me almost a year ago. I need to adjust my attitude and drop my hypocrisy and get involved.
Now that I’m actively involved in a church, I still see people doing and saying things that I don’t necessarily agree with. Or they may do something that I would handle differently. And I’m 100% sure that some would say the exact same thing about me. The difference now, however, is two-fold:
1. I realize that I’m not perfect either, and I’m 100% sure that people won’t like the way I say things or handle things at times.
2. The value of fellowship and friendship is both comforting and good for my spiritual soul. Not only can I talk with those who need help, I can talk with those who can help me.
When previously I acted on my own—dealing with the hardships of life all by myself—I now have many Christian brothers and sisters who have my back. There are comfort in numbers!
So, stop the excuses. Stop the judging and forget about what has happened in the past. I promise you, if you join or start participating in a Bible-believing, Bible-teaching church, there will be less damage done to you in that church than the damage that will happen to you and your family outside of the church.
February 6, 2017 Into The Wilderness By Sandy Mayle
I’m calling 2017 a wilderness.
Right now, it lies before us as a wide expanse of uninhabited land – untamed and un-mapped, without superhighways or back-roads or even footpaths. Some of us face heavily-tangled underbrush. Some face what seems a barren waste. None of us see the way clearly.
We need some help here! A map, a bulldozer, a road crew – something!
How about a fiery, cloudy pillar?
The Israelites had one, remember, when they fled from the Egyptians, crossed the Red Sea, and made that most famous of wilderness treks to the Promised Land?
By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people. Exodus 13:21,22 NIV
This cloud led them faithfully till they reached the borders of Canaan.
Whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped… As long as the cloud stayed over the tabernacle, they remained in camp… Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud lifted, they set out. Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out. At the Lord’s command they encamped, and at the Lord’s command they set out. Numbers 9:17-23
We’ve been given such a cloud in the Person of the Holy Spirit, the Helper and Guide we received when we believed on Jesus Christ for salvation. This gives us a choice: through the “Wilds of 2017,” we can be led by business principles, life coaches, gut instincts, circumstances, horoscopes, Facebook, the opinions of others, or ingrained responses. We can travel in the ruts we followed in 2016. We can grumble and disobey. We can shrink back and want to return to Egypt.
Or we can welcome the fiery, cloudy pillar of the Spirit, and be led by Him all through this year. We can wait when He waits and move ahead when He does. We can journey confidently behind our Guide. He will shelter us from scorching sun, give light in the darkest night, be our unerring Guide – till we reach not only the border of 2018, but the Promised Land itself.
It may be an exciting, serendipitous year. It may be a challenging one. Wilderness is wilderness, and we don’t know what’s ahead. But no worries. We’re just a’passing through, and our Guide is the Best.
January 26, 2017 Keep Shinning
This is the time of year when darkness seems to overtake our evenings so early. But then-- there are those beautiful full moon nights when the light shimmers on the crystallized snow like perfectly cut diamonds. Some nights, there is so much light that you can even see shadows. Our God is AMAZING!!! He can make beauty SHINE in darkness. A new year has begun. There are so many people all around us in darkness looking for THE LIGHT. Maybe that LIGHT is YOU. Take every opportunity to LET IT SHINE in whatever way you can to touch as many lives as you can. We are to walk as children of the LIGHT. You may be the only Jesus those around you will see. During this cold winter season, make it a goal to shine light into the darkness in someone's life. Maybe a family member, a child, a neighbor or someone you don't even know. You can SHINE and warm their hearts by simply holding a door open for them or giving them a smile. I have learned that a sincere smile can do more than words to melt hearts for the LIGHT to shine in. Be that LIGHT in the darkness that glistens like diamonds and reflects the Holy Spirit's love. ~LuAnne
January 16, 2017 Dying to Self
When you are forgotten or neglected or purposely set at naught, and stung and hurt with the insult or the oversight, but your heart is happy, being counted worthy to suffer for Christ ~that is dying to self. When your good is evil spoken of, when your wishes are crossed, and your opinions ridiculed and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, or even defend yourself, but take it all in patient loving silence ~ that is dying to self. When you lovingly and patiently bear any disorder, any irregularity, or any annoyance, when you can stand face to face with waste, folly, extravagance, spiritual insensibility, and endure it as Jesus endured it ~ that is dying to self. When you are content with any good, any offering, any raiment, any climate, any society, any attitude, any interruption by the will of God ~ that is dying to self. When you truly love to be unknown, when you never care to refer to yourself in conversation, or to record your own good works, or itch after commendation ~ that is dying to self. When you see your brother prosper and have his needs met and can honestly rejoice with him in spirit and feel no envy nor question God, while your own needs are far greater and in desperate circumstances ~ that is dying to self. When you can receive correction and reproof from one of less stature than yourself and can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly , finding no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart ~ that is dying to self.
"I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ liveth in me..." Galatians 2:20
Are you tired, frustrated, confused, and feel as if there’s no hope? Well, Jesus can change your paths and direct your life in such a way that will bring you hope, peace, and satisfaction. Jesus is “The Good Shepherd”, the One who laid down His life and picked it up again for His Sheep (Jn. 10). The fact that Jesus died for His sheep (people) shows us how much of value we (His Sheep) are to Him.
In Psalm 23, David shows us how the Lord is our Shepherd. It’s a Psalm that’s written from a sheep’s perspective. It doesn’t matter where you are in life Psalm 23 will remind you and bring you back to the reality that the Lord (Jehovah) is our Shepherd. The Lord is a loving, caring, protective Provider for His Sheep. Furthermore, He watches and will never leave His sheep.
Join us in our current series “Follow the Shepherd.” Our responsibility, as sheep, is to follow Jesus “The Good Shepherd.” This series consist of seven parts:
“The Lord is My Shepherd”
“He Leads Me”
“He Restores my Soul”
“Fear No Evil”
“He Makes Provision”
“Goodness and Mercy”
“In the House of The Lord”
“Trust in the LORD [ The good shepherd] with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Pro. 3:5-6).
Delroy Simpson
Lead Pastor
August 2, 2017 GOD ALLOWS U-TURNS
Not too long ago I took a trip and met up with a friend I hadn't seen in a while. We met in an unfamiliar town and decided to site-see one afternoon. We took the GPS and wandered out for an adventure. Well, you know that even having the GPS on sometimes we missed the turn or passed something we wanted to check out. What do we do? Yup, make a U-turn. Go back and try it again. Here we go again...another u-turn. shortly after being back home I came across a tract that simply read "God allows u-turns" I started to laugh, thinking about my recent adventure with my friend and then I thought, Praise the Lord He does! Think about it. We serve a God who is loving, kind and forgiving. We all make mistakes, the Bible says "all have sinned, and fall short of the glories of God" Romans 3:23. The bible also states that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" 1 John 1:9. No matter what we have done, no matter where we have been, it is never too late to change direction, because God Allows U-turns!
June 22, 2017 Proverbs 23: 22-25
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
23 Buy the truth and do not sell it--
wisdom, instruction and insight as well.
24 The father of a righteous child has great joy;
a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.
25 May your father and mother rejoice;
may she who gave you birth be joyful!
May 30, 2017 How to Love Others InTouch Ministries
Matthew 22:35-40
Jesus told His disciples, “In everything ... treat people the same way you want them to treat you” (Matt. 7:12). Most of us refer to this code of conduct as the Golden Rule.
In theory, we’d probably agree that this is a good foundation for a healthy relationship. Yet it’s tough to live up to such a standard. If we made a list of the ways we hope to be treated and compared it with our own behavior, we’d likely fall short.
And of course, it’s easy to love when others treat us well. But how do we respond when their behavior is hurtful or unpleasant? The truth is, Jesus meant for us to love others all the time, not just when they’re lovable. Regardless of their attitude toward us, we are to think about the relationship qualities we value—like loyalty, trust, encouragement, forgiveness, acceptance, and protection—and let these flow from us in the other person’s direction.
Unfortunately, our society breeds selfishness, greed, and pride, which are enemies of the love Jesus commanded. But when we care for others in the way the Lord prescribes, relationships can thrive and deepen.
Treating others with this kind of love isn’t natural or easy, especially when people are unkind. In fact, loving as Jesus commanded is impossible on our own. But when we trust Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit empowers us and lives His life through us.
Take time to list the ways you hope others will treat you. Then ask, Is that how I treat people? Pray for God to reveal one area where He will help you apply the Golden Rule.
April 26, 2017
5 Things Church is Not About Janna Wrightgracethread.com
So, how do you feel about church?
Oh, not what you’re supposed to think or what you’re expected to say, but your honest, gut reaction.
I imagine you have some pretty solid opinions on the subject. If I asked you to tell me about it, you might mention the kid’s ministry or the worship time. Perhaps you’d tell me it’s not as important as it used to be. Or maybe you’d excitedly share about your small group or your favorite preacher.
And I would probably nod and say, “I hear ya’!” because I’ve grown up in church and have my own settled beliefs on the subject.
Truth is, if we posed that opening question to a roomful of Christians, the answers would probably be as varied as the number of people in the room.
We Christians tend to be opinionated about church. We know what we like and what we don’t. (And sometimes we get a bit worked up about it too!) So, who’s right? Is church about the preaching? The music? The programs? The outreach? When we talk about church, it’s natural to become focused on what we do or don’t enjoy.
But I wonder in all of the opinionating if perhaps we’ve overlooked something important—what church is not about.
Church is not about:
1. A single person
Church is not all about a single person. It’s not about the pastor, or the greeter, or the perfect worship leader. And truthfully, church isn’t even all about you!
Church is bigger than one person because Christ called the church a body. A body of believers who gather together as family. A group of Christians who choose to be in one place so they can worship Jesus together, focusing on Him. (Romans 12:4-5)
2. A group of identical, perfect people
Church is not about finding a community of people who think the same way you do about every tiny detail. It’s not about finding a place where everyone has it all together all of the time. You can expect to find some broken, redeemed people who have differing opinions about the activities, the music, the way we should do such and such. You will find people with different gifts and abilities and thoughts about life. Church is not supposed to be a perfect, everybody’s-identical place.
Church is a place for loved on, not-quite-perfect-yet people to gather in grace and celebrate Jesus together. A place to be loved on for who you are and how God made you. A place to use your God-given talents to serve each other. A place to applaud the grace we’ve been given in Christ and can now extend to each other with joy. No perfection required. (1 Corinthians 12:12,18)
3. The peripherals
Let’s be honest. It’s fun to grab a vanilla latte on the way to your cushy theater seat in a nicely heated auditorium with a blow-your-hair-back sound system. We won’t complain that the kids thrive in the specialized kids’ program or that the new activity center is going to reach the community in a big way.
But church is not about peripherals like the building, the programs, or the activities. Sure, those things are nice, but they’re just that – nice peripherals.
Church is about the main thing – Jesus. It’s an opportunity to worship Him together, a chance to remind ourselves of the truth about Him, and a place to refresh one another with that same truth. While it can be fun to do that with big buildings, gourmet coffees, and a full calendar, those are just bonuses that should never become the main focus. (Colossians 1:18-19)
4. Christian entertainment
I once visited a church where right before the sermon, the worship band performed a rousing rendition of “We are the Champions.”
After reading that sentence you are most likely in one of two camps: Camp “That’s awesome!” or Camp “How Inappropriate.”
There are many ways to worship Jesus and communicate the truth about Him. Some churches choose to show videos. Others wouldn’t be caught dead with a screen up front. Some give rousing concerts. Others don’t even use a single instrument.
Whether you think technology is a marvelous thing or catch yourself muttering “Videos, media, and music, oh my!”, church is not actually about entertainment. Church is about gathering together for worship and building up the body of believers. (Ephesians 4:15-16)
5. The only place to hear from God
Hopefully you have a church that preaches God’s Word and creates an atmosphere where you can “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). A place where you feel connected to God and at home with other believers at the same time. And a place where you hear from God often.
But church is not the only place to hear from God. That’s one reason God lovingly preserved His Word for us—the Love Letter from the Author of Truth himself. God longs to show you more of Himself every single day. He is with you right now, ready to reveal more of Himself to you. While a church atmosphere and teaching may help, God loves to connect with you the other six days of the week too! Yup, He loves you that much.
So, at church and all the days in between, may our focus be most on God’s truth and our hearts turned toward Jesus.
April 10, 2017 Want to Believe, BUT…By Dr. Tim Clinton
“You face your greatest opposition when you’re closest to your biggest miracle.” Bishop T. D. Jakes
“When it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow.” G. K. Chesterton
Often, the most powerful, life-changing miracles seem to happen in the “buts” of life.
Consider the story of Naaman. 2 Kings 5:1 describes him with glowing accolades.
Commander of the army of the king of Syria.
A great man with his master.
High favor.
A mighty man of valor.
Then out of nowhere – life-altering words.
But…he was a leper.
Think about that. Leprosy. The most dreaded disease of his day. A visible outward malady that in reality defined who he was. Putrefying infected sores that in time caused loss of fingers, toes, nose. Everyone who came in contact with him saw the miserable condition he carried with him everywhere he went. There was no hiding it.
Many Christ followers understand this reality in their own journey. No doubt, many of you are living there right now.
You love God, and you really do believe that God loves you. You read the Word, pray, give your tithes and offerings, attend worship services, desiring to obey and walk in His Spirit.
But…
The doctor gave you terminal news.
But…
Your spouse left and the hole in your heart grows deeper and wider by the hour.
But…
Your position at work was eliminated, as was your pay check, and you find yourself in the unemployment line.
But…
A son or a daughter rejected a lifetime of nurture and admonition and the relationship is strained, broken and seemingly destroyed.
“Buts” that now seem to define who you are. “Buts” that perhaps even cause you to question God and His plan, much less His goodness. “Buts” that understandably cause you to ask “Where are you God?”
Let’s look again at the well-known Bible story of Naaman. At the recommendation of a young slave girl, he travels to find the prophet Elisha. Elisha sends a servant out to instruct Naaman to go and wash seven times in the Jordan. Albeit reluctantly, and even with quite a bit of raging about how irrational the command is, he obeys.
I wonder how Naaman felt after he dunked himself the first time. No change. The second time. No change. Third time. No change. After number six, he might have been thinking that this was a horrible joke and a waste of time. The anger he had initially felt was returning. Someone was going to pay for this public act of embarrassment.
Have you been there? Faith…trust…obedience…and seemingly no change. You find yourself confused, distraught, and perhaps even a bit angry at God.
Then Naaman dipped the seventh time and “his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” 2 Kings 5:14 ESV
He went back to the “man of God”, stood before him and declared, (now) “I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel…” 2 Kings 5:15 ESV
God was in the midst of his pain. Faithfully at work in the “but” of Naaman’s life. Steadfast in His in plan in Naaman’s journey, which ultimately brought Him glory.
And God is in the midst of your pain also. He hasn’t forgotten you. He hasn’t forsaken you. He is faithfully working in the plan of your life, and He will ultimately get glory by taking your story and making it His story.
Don’t be defined by the “but” in your pilgrimage. Don’t give up. Keep believing that He is God, and that He is good.
Your miracle could be just one more “dip in the Jordan” away.
A miracle that will turn your life around.
March 24, 2017 Let It Happen
... I told her about Jesus. And she got mad! I know God is changing her heart. And that hurts. I'd like to make it better. But I won't. I will get out of God's way. I will let God plow her up, so He can plant new seed in her. Soon Jesus will grow tall and strong in her broken heart. ~"He must increase, but I must decrease" John 3:30
This was a little devotional I had come across and it spoke to me during this season in my life. How often do we get in God's way of what He is doing and think that we can help push things along. Pray and let God do what God needs to do, stay out of His way. He's got this!
March 10, 2017 Broken Chains By Sandell Snyder
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. Isaiah 61: 1b (NIV)
My new friend shared his story from the podium of the crowded church. As he described his deliverance from a life of crime and certain death, the power and love of God were undeniable. God had literally freed him from captivity — physically, emotionally and spiritually.
It had taken time, several years, for God to draw him out of the habits and relationships that held him back for so long, and he was humble enough to admit that he still occasionally battles the temptation to return to that familiar life. But something had changed. The truth of Jesus had broken the chains of those patterns and set him free. Experiencing freedom in God had changed him and compelled him to share his story, his testimony, so that others might be set free too.
I was briefly encouraged by my friend’s testimony and its clear illustration of God’s intervention. Stories like this naturally inspire faith and move us to seek God and His will for us. That’s why He wants us to share them. But then the subtle chains of doubt and judgment tightened around my heart. Compared to the story being told, my life seemed so ordinary and uninspiring. Compared to… ugh. I was doing it again, allowing the whispers of the enemy to distract me from the truth. Feeling the temptation to slide back into the darkness of captivity.
At that moment, the pastor interrupted my thoughts by summarizing the core message of the day; “If we don’t have a testimony, we haven’t yet found our liberty.” Something about that statement got my attention.
I realized that I was relating to the idea of deliverance as it applied to my friend, but not fully embracing it for myself. I was understanding with my ‘head’ that Jesus came to proclaim freedom for the captives, but there were still some areas of my heart that were not living in that freedom. Somewhere along the way I lost sight of the truth that my savior has broken every chain and that my chains may not be the same as someone else’s. I became blind to the ways in which the enemy tries to draw me back into captivity. I allowed chains of fear, judgment or un-forgiveness to bind me and silence my story. I believed the lie that I do not have a story to tell.
The truth is that Jesus came and broke the chains of sin and death for us. Every single one of us, every single chain. The absence of imminent danger does not diminish the reality of our need for deliverance. The internal or less visible nature of some chains does not make their breaking any less powerful.
Regardless of its form, God is proclaiming freedom and light into your place of captivity today. He has broken that chain, you are free. Let that freedom change you. Embrace it fully, step out into it and share the power of that testimony with someone else.
To Go, or Not to Go… to Church? By Nathan Tabor
To go or not to go to church … that question has been a hard one for me for 10-plus years now. I grew up a preacher’s kid, and I had been involved in church all of my life. As I grew older and, in my mind, wiser, I started to see behind the curtain a bit. And what I saw, I didn’t like.
I didn’t like the hypocrisy of seeing people say one thing, yet do another. I didn’t like the legalism or judgmental attitude of others. Over time, I settled into a mindset that I could have a great walk with God and a relationship with Jesus as long as I kept both my quiet time and my prayer life alive… as long as I did it my way.
Do you feel like that? Are you currently in this mindset?
Occasionally, I would venture out and visit a church here and there. But I never felt completely comfortable with one aspect or another. There was always something that I allowed to keep me away.
Over the years, I also used other excuses not to attend church: I was tired after a long week of work or that I needed to spend time with my family. But I never used these excuses when it was something I wanted to do, like go work out at the gym or take a vacation.
Basically, I had used one excuse or another to not get involved in any church.
What I finally came to realize and understand is that behind my own curtain, I was being a hypocrite too. Yes, I admit it! Behind my own curtain, I was judging others for their attitudes or for what they had done or not done.
Here’s the truth: everyone has issues. Every church has issues. Churches are run by people. And people are humans, and humans are sinners, myself included.
The difference between them and me was simple: they were at least trying to observe fellowship with other Christians and to serve the Lord.
It really started to weigh on me almost a year ago. I need to adjust my attitude and drop my hypocrisy and get involved.
Now that I’m actively involved in a church, I still see people doing and saying things that I don’t necessarily agree with. Or they may do something that I would handle differently. And I’m 100% sure that some would say the exact same thing about me. The difference now, however, is two-fold:
1. I realize that I’m not perfect either, and I’m 100% sure that people won’t like the way I say things or handle things at times.
2. The value of fellowship and friendship is both comforting and good for my spiritual soul. Not only can I talk with those who need help, I can talk with those who can help me.
When previously I acted on my own—dealing with the hardships of life all by myself—I now have many Christian brothers and sisters who have my back. There are comfort in numbers!
So, stop the excuses. Stop the judging and forget about what has happened in the past. I promise you, if you join or start participating in a Bible-believing, Bible-teaching church, there will be less damage done to you in that church than the damage that will happen to you and your family outside of the church.
February 6, 2017 Into The Wilderness By Sandy Mayle
I’m calling 2017 a wilderness.
Right now, it lies before us as a wide expanse of uninhabited land – untamed and un-mapped, without superhighways or back-roads or even footpaths. Some of us face heavily-tangled underbrush. Some face what seems a barren waste. None of us see the way clearly.
We need some help here! A map, a bulldozer, a road crew – something!
How about a fiery, cloudy pillar?
The Israelites had one, remember, when they fled from the Egyptians, crossed the Red Sea, and made that most famous of wilderness treks to the Promised Land?
By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people. Exodus 13:21,22 NIV
This cloud led them faithfully till they reached the borders of Canaan.
Whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped… As long as the cloud stayed over the tabernacle, they remained in camp… Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud lifted, they set out. Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out. At the Lord’s command they encamped, and at the Lord’s command they set out. Numbers 9:17-23
We’ve been given such a cloud in the Person of the Holy Spirit, the Helper and Guide we received when we believed on Jesus Christ for salvation. This gives us a choice: through the “Wilds of 2017,” we can be led by business principles, life coaches, gut instincts, circumstances, horoscopes, Facebook, the opinions of others, or ingrained responses. We can travel in the ruts we followed in 2016. We can grumble and disobey. We can shrink back and want to return to Egypt.
Or we can welcome the fiery, cloudy pillar of the Spirit, and be led by Him all through this year. We can wait when He waits and move ahead when He does. We can journey confidently behind our Guide. He will shelter us from scorching sun, give light in the darkest night, be our unerring Guide – till we reach not only the border of 2018, but the Promised Land itself.
It may be an exciting, serendipitous year. It may be a challenging one. Wilderness is wilderness, and we don’t know what’s ahead. But no worries. We’re just a’passing through, and our Guide is the Best.
January 26, 2017 Keep Shinning
This is the time of year when darkness seems to overtake our evenings so early. But then-- there are those beautiful full moon nights when the light shimmers on the crystallized snow like perfectly cut diamonds. Some nights, there is so much light that you can even see shadows. Our God is AMAZING!!! He can make beauty SHINE in darkness. A new year has begun. There are so many people all around us in darkness looking for THE LIGHT. Maybe that LIGHT is YOU. Take every opportunity to LET IT SHINE in whatever way you can to touch as many lives as you can. We are to walk as children of the LIGHT. You may be the only Jesus those around you will see. During this cold winter season, make it a goal to shine light into the darkness in someone's life. Maybe a family member, a child, a neighbor or someone you don't even know. You can SHINE and warm their hearts by simply holding a door open for them or giving them a smile. I have learned that a sincere smile can do more than words to melt hearts for the LIGHT to shine in. Be that LIGHT in the darkness that glistens like diamonds and reflects the Holy Spirit's love. ~LuAnne
January 16, 2017 Dying to Self
When you are forgotten or neglected or purposely set at naught, and stung and hurt with the insult or the oversight, but your heart is happy, being counted worthy to suffer for Christ ~that is dying to self. When your good is evil spoken of, when your wishes are crossed, and your opinions ridiculed and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, or even defend yourself, but take it all in patient loving silence ~ that is dying to self. When you lovingly and patiently bear any disorder, any irregularity, or any annoyance, when you can stand face to face with waste, folly, extravagance, spiritual insensibility, and endure it as Jesus endured it ~ that is dying to self. When you are content with any good, any offering, any raiment, any climate, any society, any attitude, any interruption by the will of God ~ that is dying to self. When you truly love to be unknown, when you never care to refer to yourself in conversation, or to record your own good works, or itch after commendation ~ that is dying to self. When you see your brother prosper and have his needs met and can honestly rejoice with him in spirit and feel no envy nor question God, while your own needs are far greater and in desperate circumstances ~ that is dying to self. When you can receive correction and reproof from one of less stature than yourself and can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly , finding no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart ~ that is dying to self.
"I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ liveth in me..." Galatians 2:20
October 26th 2013
It's been almost a year since I wrote - Wow!!! What have I been learning - here's a few notes gleaned from Andrew Murray's book, "Like Christ".
To walk like Christ one must abide in Christ; he that abides in Christ has the power to walk like Christ!
"He that saith he abideth in Him, ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked" 1John 2:6
"Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived" The Message.
The fruit of a life in Christ is a life like Christ:
The first expression we see is 'Abiding in Christ'
"Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." read John 15:1-17
The life of the vine and the branch is so completely identical, that the manifestation of that life must be identical too!
The second expression we see is 'walking in Christ':
Walking like Christ is the promise of the wonderful power which the abiding in Christ will exert. When we surrender to live wholly in Christ the fruit of that surrender will be His life working so mightily in us - that our walk - the outward expression of the inner life or condition - becomes like Christ.
This is not automatic or involuntary - we are not robots!
To walk like Christ comes as the result of a deliberate choice to abide in Him and a desire to walk like Him. It is sought with a strong desire and accepted through a living will. Our hidden inner union with Christ and likeness of Christ must work itself out into a visible likeness in walk and conduct.
Every believer is in Christ; but not every one abides in Christ. This in the sense of a consciously joyful and trustful surrender of the whole being to His influence.
Dear Lord - today - by your Holy Spirit, help me to abide in you so that I might walk like you! Thank you for your love and grace and patience with me - In Jesus Name I pray - Amen!!!
November 1st 2012
Christ Our Savior:
What Salvation brings to us:
1. Salavation brings the foregiveness of all our sins and entirely removes them. They are blotted out as completely as though we had paid all that was due for them, and they can never appear against us again (Psalm 103:12; Romans 4:7-8)
2. Salvation brings us justification in the sight of God, so that we stand before Him as righteous beings (Romans 5:1) We are accepted as though we had dones everything He had commanded, and perfectly kept the law in every particular. With one stoke of the pen He erases the account that was against us; with another stroke He puts there all the righteousness of Christ. We must take both sides of this. The spotlessness of Jesus is put to our account as if it were your own. All his obedience to the Father is yours. All His patience and gentleness are yours. Every service that He has rendered to bless others is put to your account as if you had done it all. Every good thing you can discover in Him is yours, and every evil thing in you is His. That is salvation. Isn't that wonderful?
3. Salvation brings us into favor and love of God, and secures us full acceptance in the person of Jesus. He loves us as He loves His only begotten Son. Teh moment we are preseneted in the arms of Christ, we are accepted in Hiim. It doesn't matter what we've done for Jesus - we must be identified with the Man who wore the thorns; we must be accepted in the Beloved, and then the Father will loves us even as He loves His Son. We shall stand with Him even as Christ does.
4. Salvation gives us new heart
5. Salvation gives us grace to live day by day (Jude 24-25)
6. Salvation brings to us the help of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26)
7. Salvation brings to us the care of God's providence (Romans 8:28)
8. Salvation opens the way for all the blessings that follow it. It is the stepping stone to sanctification and healing, and the peace that passeth all understanding
9. Salvation brings to us eternal life.
More to follow with Romans 3:25 in anothe blog.
All for Jesus,
Pastor Nigel G Probert
October 31st 2012
I've been thinking a lot about how to handle this blog stuff - I love doctrine (by that I am talking about various teachings found in the Bible) As an example I thought yesterday I'd tackle Romans 3:25 so I began to review the many resources and commentaries on that verse. I reviewed a paper I wrote for my ordination and the conclusion I've come to is that we could be blogging about that verse for weeks maybe months and there would still remain much to understand.
Truth be told - it would be virtually impossible to explain or make clear the exact interpretation of Romans 3:25. But because I said I'd bring some teaching on it yesterday - here goes.
Lets start out by looking at different Bible translations and what words are used to express and understood the meaning of the original for Romans 3;25.
God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished (NIV)
The word we'll examine and compare with other translations is the word in red above:
The NASB uses the word propitiation; KJV propitiation; RSV expiation; NEB expiating; NIV atonement; YLT mercy seat;
NLT (here we are best to write out the verse) For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us. God was being entirely fair when he did not punish those who sinned in former times.
We'll look at more on this in a couple of days.
I'll finish with a couple more points regarding Christ our Savior - what salvation saves us from:
3. Salvation delivers us from the curse of the law (Galatians 3:10) Salvation delivers us from this curse through Him who was made a curse for us (Galatians 3:13)
4. Salvation delivers us from our evil conscience. There is always a shadow left on our hearts by sin, and a feeling or remorse.
5. Salvation delivers us from an evil heart. There is a tendency to evil in every nature; we're chained to it like a body of death, so that when we would do good, evil is present with us (Romans7) Salvation frees us from its power and gives us a new nature (2Peter 1:4)
6. Salvation frees us from fear of death. It takes away the sting of that last enemy (1Cor 15:5)
7. Salvation delivers us from Satan's power and kingdom (Col 1:13)
8. Beyond all else, salvation delivers us from eternal death. We are not going down into outer darkness (Hebrews 9:27-28; Rev 20:15)
God bless - Pastor Nigel G Probert
October 30th 2012
Okay, so salvation takes away guilt and frees us from all liability and punishment of past offences! Wow, what a promise; what a power; what a gift! The Apostle Paul describes God's amazing gift of salvation in the following passage:
I Timothy 1:12-17 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only true God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen
Are you living out your faith free from the guilt and the liability and punishment of sin?
Moving on from yesterday:
Christ our Savior:
What Salvation Saves us from:
2. Salvation saves us from the wrath of God (Romans 5;9) God hates evil and must punish it somehow. The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all unrighteousness of men (Romans 1:18) But this salvation delivers us.(This is not a popular position but it is a biblical position)
Tomorrow we'll take a look at Romans 3:25 which will bring some clarity to point 2 above and point 1 below. Have a wonderful day.
Serving Jesus with you - Pastor Nigel G Probert
October 29th 2012
The Four-Fold Gospel
As a member or attendee of the Christian & Missionary Alliance would you like to understand a little more about the Four-Fold Gospel? Would you like to know what you are agreeing to when you join or attend an Alliance Church? If your answer is yes - then I pray you will glean some good stuff in the coming blogs.
It is my intention to share with you this central theme over the coming days ahead. I pray what is shared will either refresh or renew or simply enlighten you to a solid biblical foundation on which the C&MA stand. In addition I pray you are given some tools and information to share with those interested in joining you in worship at Cambridge Springs Alliance Church.
First of all please understand that the blessings of the Gospel are not limited exclusively to the Four - Christ our Savior; Christ our Sanctifier; Christ our Healer and Christ our Coming King. In one sense the Gospel is a manifold Gospel with countless blessings and ever deeper and richer experiences of God's grace and love. "But there are four messages in the Gospel which sum up in a very complete way the blessings which Christ has to offer us and which it is especially important that Christians should emphasize today." (A B Simpson)
Please note: The following information is taken from notes I put together some years ago for a membership class and some of it is copied directly from teachings from A B Simpson the founder of the C&MA.
Christ Our Savior:
What Salvation Saves us from:
1. It takes away the guilt of sin (Hebrews 10:19-25) It frees us from all liability and punishment for past offences (Hebrews 10-17) Sin deserves punishment (Romans 6:23) Salvation takes this all away (Romans 3:25)
This is the first point of many concerning salvation. Salvation saves and frees us from the guilt, liability and punishment of past offences. Why don't you take a look at other Scripture and see what the Lord reveals to you regarding the above point. Thsi is just the beginning, I will comment more in the coming weeks.
Serving Jesus with you - Pastor Nigel G Probert
April 23, 2012
I think I'll leave the forgiveness rock in place. It seems we need constant
reminders. One thing I have learned is that it's easier to say you forgive
someone than to go to the person who wronged you and ask for an apology.
Certainly when it's a small offense the former will do...hurt feelings...bad
manners. But when the offense causes you repeated ongoing pain which leads you
to share your story and your hurt with others, it becomes a case of gossip,
slander, and libel. When you've never given the offender opportunity to repent
and ask for forgiveness, according to God, that's a problem. And by problem I
mean sin. Now we've got two sins and two sets of sinners. Oh dear. My mom and
dad hammered into our heads as kids that two wrongs don't make a right. Two sets
of sins don't balance things out, so if you see your brother or sister in sin,
go to them...give them the chance to repent. If he listens to you, you'll
have won your brother over. (Matt. 18:15) Obey God's Word. That'll stop the
devil in his tracks! Let's let loving actions cover our multitudes of sin. Let's
promote peace.
reminders. One thing I have learned is that it's easier to say you forgive
someone than to go to the person who wronged you and ask for an apology.
Certainly when it's a small offense the former will do...hurt feelings...bad
manners. But when the offense causes you repeated ongoing pain which leads you
to share your story and your hurt with others, it becomes a case of gossip,
slander, and libel. When you've never given the offender opportunity to repent
and ask for forgiveness, according to God, that's a problem. And by problem I
mean sin. Now we've got two sins and two sets of sinners. Oh dear. My mom and
dad hammered into our heads as kids that two wrongs don't make a right. Two sets
of sins don't balance things out, so if you see your brother or sister in sin,
go to them...give them the chance to repent. If he listens to you, you'll
have won your brother over. (Matt. 18:15) Obey God's Word. That'll stop the
devil in his tracks! Let's let loving actions cover our multitudes of sin. Let's
promote peace.
April 16, 2012 Good Monday Morning
Matthew 18: 1-35
Unless you change and become like little children...humble yourself like a child...
If your brother sins against you...
How many times must I forgive?
Click on the sermons tab above and listen to Dr. Norris' message. You'll be blessed!
Unless you change and become like little children...humble yourself like a child...
If your brother sins against you...
How many times must I forgive?
Click on the sermons tab above and listen to Dr. Norris' message. You'll be blessed!
April 8, 2012...Happy Resurrection Sunday!
He is risen, indeed!
The Angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Matthew 28:5-6
The Angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Matthew 28:5-6
Amazing Submission!
Oswald Chambers wrote:
For 30 years Jesus lived at home with brothers and sisters who did not believe in Him, and when He began His ministry they said He was mad. "As He is , so are we in this world." We say, "When I was born again I thought it would be a time of great illumination and service, and instead of that I have had to stay at home with people who have criticized me and limited me on the right hand and on the left; I have been misunderstood and misrepresented." "The disciple is not above his teacher" (Matt.
10:24).
Do we think our lot ought to be better than Jesus Christ's? We can easily escape the submissions if we like, but if we do not submit, the Spirit of God will produce in us the most ghastly humiliation before long...God is not concerned about our aims. He does not say, "Do you want to go through this bereavement, this upset?" He allows these things for His own purpose. We may say what we like, but God does allow the devil, He does allow sin, He does allow bad men to triumph and tyrants to rule, and these things either make us fiends or they make us saints, it depends entirely on our relationship with God. If we say, "Your will be done," we get the tremendous consolation of knowing that our Father is working everything according to His own wisdom. If we understand what God is after, we shall be saved from being mean and cynical. (from If Ye Shall Ask 1958)
For 30 years Jesus lived at home with brothers and sisters who did not believe in Him, and when He began His ministry they said He was mad. "As He is , so are we in this world." We say, "When I was born again I thought it would be a time of great illumination and service, and instead of that I have had to stay at home with people who have criticized me and limited me on the right hand and on the left; I have been misunderstood and misrepresented." "The disciple is not above his teacher" (Matt.
10:24).
Do we think our lot ought to be better than Jesus Christ's? We can easily escape the submissions if we like, but if we do not submit, the Spirit of God will produce in us the most ghastly humiliation before long...God is not concerned about our aims. He does not say, "Do you want to go through this bereavement, this upset?" He allows these things for His own purpose. We may say what we like, but God does allow the devil, He does allow sin, He does allow bad men to triumph and tyrants to rule, and these things either make us fiends or they make us saints, it depends entirely on our relationship with God. If we say, "Your will be done," we get the tremendous consolation of knowing that our Father is working everything according to His own wisdom. If we understand what God is after, we shall be saved from being mean and cynical. (from If Ye Shall Ask 1958)
Monday, April 2, 2012
What Were They Thinking?
Jeremiah 31:7-14 7 Now this is what the Lord says: “Sing with joy for Israel. Shout for the greatest of nations! Shout out with praise and joy: ‘Save your people, O Lord, the remnant of Israel!’ 8For I will bring them from the north and from the distant corners of the earth. I will not forget the blind and lame, the expectant mothers and women in labor. A great company will return! 9Tears of joy will stream down their faces, and I will lead them home with great care. They will walk beside quiet streams and on smooth paths where they will not stumble. For I am Israel’s father, and Ephraim is my oldest child. 10“Listen to this message from the Lord, you nations of the world; proclaim it in distant coastlands: The Lord, who scattered his people, will gather them and watch over them as a shepherd does his flock. 11For the Lord has redeemed Israel from those too strong for them. 12They will come home and sing songs of joy on the heights of Jerusalem. They will be radiant because of the Lord’s good gifts— the abundant crops of grain, new wine, and olive oil, and the healthy flocks and herds. Their life will be like a watered garden, and all their sorrows will be gone. 13The young women will dance for joy, and the men—old and young—will join in the celebration. I will turn their mourning into joy. I will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing. 14The priests will enjoy abundance, and my people will feast on my good gifts. I, the Lord, have spoken!” |
12The next day, the news that Jesus was
on the way to Jerusalem swept through the city. A large crowd of Passover visitors 13took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. They shouted, “Praise God! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hail to the King of Israel!” 14 Jesus found a young donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy that said: 15“Don’t be afraid, people of Jerusalem. Look, your King is coming, riding on a donkey’s colt.” 16His disciples didn’t understand at the time that this was a fulfillment of prophecy. But after Jesus entered into his glory, they remembered what had happened and realized that these things had been written about him. 17Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. 18That was the reason so many went out to meet him—because they had heard about this miraculous sign. 19Then the Pharisees said to each other, “There’s nothing we can do. Look, everyone has gone after him! |
Good Monday Morning...March 26, 2012
March 26, 2012 Good Monday Morning!
Ephesians 2:8-22 (NIV)
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Jew and Gentile Reconciled Through Christ 11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
A fitting portion of God's Word for our church in times like these. Bob Thayer chose this passage of scripture to read to us before praying for our service and asking the Lord to undertake on behalf of several special prayer requests. One of those requests was for Denny and Tammy Mott's little daughter who has an inoperable brain tumor. (Please continue to pray for Emmy Mott.) Following our time of prayer Dr. Jeff Norris, district superintendent for Western PA, shared a message from John 17:1-20. This scripture makes it clear that Jesus came to make disciples who would make disciples, who would... You get the picture? We must be about our Father's business, just as Jesus was. We must get out beyond the walls of the church and make disciples.
We can do that. If you need encouraged or taught in the area of disciple-making ask God for help. If you are gifted in the area of evangelism, take someone under your wing to go out alongside you making disciples. Better yet, start a small group to train and send.
Jesus came to care for and minister to sinners. John 17:14-18 is Jesus prayer to his Father on behalf of his disciples, vs. 18 says, "As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world."
Let's go into the world and make disciples!
In Christ Jesus, Betsy
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Jew and Gentile Reconciled Through Christ 11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
A fitting portion of God's Word for our church in times like these. Bob Thayer chose this passage of scripture to read to us before praying for our service and asking the Lord to undertake on behalf of several special prayer requests. One of those requests was for Denny and Tammy Mott's little daughter who has an inoperable brain tumor. (Please continue to pray for Emmy Mott.) Following our time of prayer Dr. Jeff Norris, district superintendent for Western PA, shared a message from John 17:1-20. This scripture makes it clear that Jesus came to make disciples who would make disciples, who would... You get the picture? We must be about our Father's business, just as Jesus was. We must get out beyond the walls of the church and make disciples.
We can do that. If you need encouraged or taught in the area of disciple-making ask God for help. If you are gifted in the area of evangelism, take someone under your wing to go out alongside you making disciples. Better yet, start a small group to train and send.
Jesus came to care for and minister to sinners. John 17:14-18 is Jesus prayer to his Father on behalf of his disciples, vs. 18 says, "As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world."
Let's go into the world and make disciples!
In Christ Jesus, Betsy
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Phillipians 4:4-9
4Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.
John Hall spoke to us from I Kings 11:26-43. We were encouraged to seek God and His righteousness that we may reflect Him in our lives, reflect Him to the world and people around us. Three points to remember, God keeps His Word, God uses those he chooses, and in that, we have an opportunity every day to live in obedience. Of course God's purpose will be carried out, with or without us, He will carry out his purposes. But...He prefers to use us in accomplishing His will.
Choose to do right this week and be a good reflection of God, your heavenly Father!
In Christ Jesus, Betsy
4Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.
John Hall spoke to us from I Kings 11:26-43. We were encouraged to seek God and His righteousness that we may reflect Him in our lives, reflect Him to the world and people around us. Three points to remember, God keeps His Word, God uses those he chooses, and in that, we have an opportunity every day to live in obedience. Of course God's purpose will be carried out, with or without us, He will carry out his purposes. But...He prefers to use us in accomplishing His will.
Choose to do right this week and be a good reflection of God, your heavenly Father!
In Christ Jesus, Betsy
Greetings on Monday, March 5th, 2012
The Message of the Cross: Love and Forgiveness
Ephesians 3:14-19
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
A message of LOVE and forgiveness was presented to us by Doug Byrne, a message that encouraged and comforted and called us to be rooted and established in God's love. Then when we've been fully immersed and rooted in His love for us we can and will offer that love to others, especially to those who are less lovable. God's Word, His love and His forgiveness -- through His Holy Spirit -- was poured out. Go have a listen if you missed the message, or a second listen and be blessed again.
May God bless you with a loving heart this week,
In Christ Jesus, Betsy
Ephesians 3:14-19
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
A message of LOVE and forgiveness was presented to us by Doug Byrne, a message that encouraged and comforted and called us to be rooted and established in God's love. Then when we've been fully immersed and rooted in His love for us we can and will offer that love to others, especially to those who are less lovable. God's Word, His love and His forgiveness -- through His Holy Spirit -- was poured out. Go have a listen if you missed the message, or a second listen and be blessed again.
May God bless you with a loving heart this week,
In Christ Jesus, Betsy
February 27, 2012
The Benediction
1 Thessalonians 5:16-28, NKJV
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. 25 Brethren, pray for us. 26 Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. 27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
At the close of his message, Pastor Cliff asked us to be in prayer for him and his family as they begin a new adventure in ministry. He didn't need to ask...our prayers will follow and support him. In parting -- as they leave and we stay -- we know that all of us remain in God's competent, loving care...and we will, one and all, be more than okay. We have a Heavenly Father who guides us, watches over us, and upholds us with His Righteous right hand. The ministry here at Cambridge Springs Alliance will go on because Pastor Cliff has led us well these four years and is leaving us strong in the Lord.
A fellowship luncheon followed the service and we had time to break bread together one last time with our pastor and his family. And now...
Goodbye Pastor Cliff, Linda and Bethany. God Bless and Godspeed!
With love from your Cambridge Springs Alliance church family.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-28, NKJV
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. 25 Brethren, pray for us. 26 Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. 27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
At the close of his message, Pastor Cliff asked us to be in prayer for him and his family as they begin a new adventure in ministry. He didn't need to ask...our prayers will follow and support him. In parting -- as they leave and we stay -- we know that all of us remain in God's competent, loving care...and we will, one and all, be more than okay. We have a Heavenly Father who guides us, watches over us, and upholds us with His Righteous right hand. The ministry here at Cambridge Springs Alliance will go on because Pastor Cliff has led us well these four years and is leaving us strong in the Lord.
A fellowship luncheon followed the service and we had time to break bread together one last time with our pastor and his family. And now...
Goodbye Pastor Cliff, Linda and Bethany. God Bless and Godspeed!
With love from your Cambridge Springs Alliance church family.
February 20, 2012
The passing of the microphone...
On Sunday morning, Feb. 19th, Pastor Cliff announced that he has been called to ministry with Coalition for Christian Outreach. Next Sunday will be his last as our pastor.
The sanctuary was awash with tears, including his own.
In the previous week's message, one of the questions Pastor asked us to ponder in our own spiritual lives was, "Is it time to move forward?" Here's trusting that the Lord has gone before us and that our hearts are indeed ready to move forward...
May God our sovereign Lord and omnipotent Father guide us and move us all forward.
Please join us for a luncheon following the morning service next week to honor our pastor and to say good-bye.
On Sunday morning, Feb. 19th, Pastor Cliff announced that he has been called to ministry with Coalition for Christian Outreach. Next Sunday will be his last as our pastor.
The sanctuary was awash with tears, including his own.
In the previous week's message, one of the questions Pastor asked us to ponder in our own spiritual lives was, "Is it time to move forward?" Here's trusting that the Lord has gone before us and that our hearts are indeed ready to move forward...
May God our sovereign Lord and omnipotent Father guide us and move us all forward.
Please join us for a luncheon following the morning service next week to honor our pastor and to say good-bye.
February 13, 2012 -- Happy Valentine's Day!
Do something sweet for someone this week!
This week's message, "Learning to be Free" from 1 Peter 1:3-15.
13Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober,
set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.
14 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.
15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;
16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” NLT
From and Hebrews 5:11-6:3, Pastor Cliff asked us to ponder these questions this week.
1. Am I teachable?
2. Am I maturing in Christ? (See Hebrews 5:12-6:1)
3. Am I firm in the fundamentals of the faith? (Am I convinced, whole-heartedly persuaded? See Romans 8:38-39)
4. Is it time for me to move forward?
This week's message, "Learning to be Free" from 1 Peter 1:3-15.
13Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober,
set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.
14 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.
15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;
16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” NLT
From and Hebrews 5:11-6:3, Pastor Cliff asked us to ponder these questions this week.
1. Am I teachable?
2. Am I maturing in Christ? (See Hebrews 5:12-6:1)
3. Am I firm in the fundamentals of the faith? (Am I convinced, whole-heartedly persuaded? See Romans 8:38-39)
4. Is it time for me to move forward?
February 6, 2012 Good Monday Morning...
The first Sunday of the month is traditionally Communion Sunday. Adult Sunday School classes focused on the old covenant that God made with His people concerning the need for purification, forgiveness, redemption. According to the old covenant a blood sacrifice was necessary for cleansing and atonement. Animals were sacrificed; their blood poured out, sprinkled, smeared. Pastor Cliff's message, Power in the Blood, was taken from Hebrews 9. In the new covenant, Jesus was the sacrifice -- He gave his life, his blood, for us. Christ's blood, shed for us, cleanses, purifies and restores us to a right relationship with God our Father. His blood has the power to secure our redemption forever. His blood binds us to a contract with God, a covenant, that secures our salvation.
Leviticus 17:11 says "For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life." Nearly everything is purified with blood -- without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. The shed blood of Jesus is the only way to forgiveness. At the last supper, Jesus said, "This cup is my blood, which confirms the covenant of God. Take and drink."
Each month, before the elements are passed, we reflect on the body of Christ, broken for us. The blood of Christ, poured out for us. And then as we partake together, we sense that we are one in Christ. And we realize once again, there is indeed Power in the Blood.
This week, receive from God, his forgiveness, his grace, his mercy, and his love. Offer to others forgiveness, grace, mercy, and love.
Blessings in Jesus, Betsy
Leviticus 17:11 says "For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life." Nearly everything is purified with blood -- without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. The shed blood of Jesus is the only way to forgiveness. At the last supper, Jesus said, "This cup is my blood, which confirms the covenant of God. Take and drink."
Each month, before the elements are passed, we reflect on the body of Christ, broken for us. The blood of Christ, poured out for us. And then as we partake together, we sense that we are one in Christ. And we realize once again, there is indeed Power in the Blood.
This week, receive from God, his forgiveness, his grace, his mercy, and his love. Offer to others forgiveness, grace, mercy, and love.
Blessings in Jesus, Betsy
January 29, 2012 Good Monday Morning...
This morning I'm listening again to Pastor Cliff's message from yesterday -- Freedom's Foundation -- Galatians 1:13-16 and Ephesians 1:3-11. Listen again for yourself and take note of the encouragement and pick out your own nuggets to treasure. No one who comes to know Jesus stays the same. No one can stand in His presence and not be changed. There is a direct correlation between time spent with God and how much growth and change is happening in our lives. Ponder these questions: Who are you? And what is valuable to you?
This is what I'm considering, how much have I (you) changed of late? And, 2. How much quality time have I (you) spent in the presence of Christ lately? Is your answer the same for both questions? I know. It surprised me too!
Oswald Chambers said, "We do not need the grace of God to stand crises; human nature and our pride will do it. ...but it does require the supernatural grace of God to live twenty-four hours of the day as a saint..."
Don't just get by, get better. If your identity is in Christ, your call is in Christ, your hope is in Christ. Be exactly who God made you to be. Do exactly what He called and gifted you to do. Let's join together in offering all that we are to Him. Jesus take my life, my hands and feet, my money and possessions, my voice, my will, my mind, my heart -- take myself, and I will be, ever, only, all for thee.
Love in Christ, Betsy
This is what I'm considering, how much have I (you) changed of late? And, 2. How much quality time have I (you) spent in the presence of Christ lately? Is your answer the same for both questions? I know. It surprised me too!
Oswald Chambers said, "We do not need the grace of God to stand crises; human nature and our pride will do it. ...but it does require the supernatural grace of God to live twenty-four hours of the day as a saint..."
Don't just get by, get better. If your identity is in Christ, your call is in Christ, your hope is in Christ. Be exactly who God made you to be. Do exactly what He called and gifted you to do. Let's join together in offering all that we are to Him. Jesus take my life, my hands and feet, my money and possessions, my voice, my will, my mind, my heart -- take myself, and I will be, ever, only, all for thee.
Love in Christ, Betsy
January 23, 2012. Good Monday Morning...
Yesterday Pastor Cliff's message, Not by Human Reason, I Peter 1:12-21,
built on the previous week's message entitled No Other Gospel,
Galatians 1:11-12. A reminder that this gospel, God's Word, which Paul
preaches and we believe, is not based on human reasoning. It is a direct
revelation from Jesus Christ. And it is truly Good News which calls us
to living obedient holy lives. To understand our calling means digging
deep into God's Word to know the truth, because it is the truth which
will set us free.
That presents a conundrum for most of us because, oh yes, we want to be free, we treasure our freedoms. And yet in giving our lives to Christ haven't we given our freedom over to him? We've died to self, and come alive in Christ..."it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." (Gal.2:20). Hence we read, learn, search scripture to understand the full picture. We dig because, "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field." Matt. 13:44.
And so I find myself wondering on this Monday morning about my own dedication. Will I keep digging for the treasured truth? Would I be willing to give up everything I have to gain the Kingdom of Heaven? That leads me to doubt. But what am I doubting? Surely I have no doubts about my Savior or my salvation, but still there is much to reckon with. So I take Pastor Cliff's message to heart and continue to pour over and dig deeper into God's Word. In this I find the only way to work out and live out my own salvation...with fear and trembling. You too? You may want to join us on Wednesday night for Bible study led by Pastor Cliff followed by a time of prayer. We're currently studying 2 Timothy. Come and dig deep in the Word of God.
Have a great week, draw closer to God.
Love in Christ, Betsy
That presents a conundrum for most of us because, oh yes, we want to be free, we treasure our freedoms. And yet in giving our lives to Christ haven't we given our freedom over to him? We've died to self, and come alive in Christ..."it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." (Gal.2:20). Hence we read, learn, search scripture to understand the full picture. We dig because, "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field." Matt. 13:44.
And so I find myself wondering on this Monday morning about my own dedication. Will I keep digging for the treasured truth? Would I be willing to give up everything I have to gain the Kingdom of Heaven? That leads me to doubt. But what am I doubting? Surely I have no doubts about my Savior or my salvation, but still there is much to reckon with. So I take Pastor Cliff's message to heart and continue to pour over and dig deeper into God's Word. In this I find the only way to work out and live out my own salvation...with fear and trembling. You too? You may want to join us on Wednesday night for Bible study led by Pastor Cliff followed by a time of prayer. We're currently studying 2 Timothy. Come and dig deep in the Word of God.
Have a great week, draw closer to God.
Love in Christ, Betsy
Good Monday Morning...
It's
January 16th. We're half way through the the first month of the new
year. So how are those resolutions coming? I've resolved to get back to
actually doing my Monday greeting here on the website on Monday. I
missed the first two Mondays of 2012, but hey, I've still got what? 50
more to go. And I truly do believe the adage, better late than never. So if you are also late or slack in making/keeping your resolutions...start now.
Another of my resolutions is to read through the Bible in a year. I started five days late. But I'll tell you what, if I'm 5 days into 2013 when I complete that resolution I'm going to be shouting hallelujah! I hope getting God's Word into your head and heart, mind and soul, is one of your hopes, plans, resolutions not just for the new year, but for life. There's no time limit on a resolution like that, no best start time except maybe yesterday (although today will work too), and no end time until we see Jesus face to face. From that day forward we'll be sitting at his feet, learning from the Master. Can you even imagine?
Pastor Cliff had a wonderful message yesterday. It'll be uploaded as soon as he teaches me how to do that. (I am determined to be helpful, but alas, technologically savvy I am not. Trainable I am, only because in Christ I can do all things! )
Make it a great week, draw closer to God.
Love in Christ, Betsy
Another of my resolutions is to read through the Bible in a year. I started five days late. But I'll tell you what, if I'm 5 days into 2013 when I complete that resolution I'm going to be shouting hallelujah! I hope getting God's Word into your head and heart, mind and soul, is one of your hopes, plans, resolutions not just for the new year, but for life. There's no time limit on a resolution like that, no best start time except maybe yesterday (although today will work too), and no end time until we see Jesus face to face. From that day forward we'll be sitting at his feet, learning from the Master. Can you even imagine?
Pastor Cliff had a wonderful message yesterday. It'll be uploaded as soon as he teaches me how to do that. (I am determined to be helpful, but alas, technologically savvy I am not. Trainable I am, only because in Christ I can do all things! )
Make it a great week, draw closer to God.
Love in Christ, Betsy
JANUARY 1st, 2012
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“LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered-- how fleeting my life is. You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; at best, each of us is but a breath.” We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth, not knowing who will spend it. And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you." |
Who Is He?
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Monday Greetings!
Yesterday was a busy day at Cambridge Springs Alliance Church
Guest speaker, our own Martin Kotz shared his testimony and the life of evangelizing and discipling that he has been called to.
A beautifully signed music presentation by Carole Mook and...
Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes --
dedicated, prayed over, and sent!
The morning service was followed by a Thanksgiving feast.
A sweet day of worship and fellowship!
(So sorry I missed it, but grateful to enjoy it second hand through these photos -- see more pixs on Carole Mook's facebook!)
Guest speaker, our own Martin Kotz shared his testimony and the life of evangelizing and discipling that he has been called to.
A beautifully signed music presentation by Carole Mook and...
Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes --
dedicated, prayed over, and sent!
The morning service was followed by a Thanksgiving feast.
A sweet day of worship and fellowship!
(So sorry I missed it, but grateful to enjoy it second hand through these photos -- see more pixs on Carole Mook's facebook!)
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Greetings on Monday October 17th (and 24th -- pretty much a rerun)
Fabulous Fall
God's creation at its finest! I believe the beauty of autumn is God's gift to help those of us who live in northerly climes prepare for the long cold winter. But let's not think about that for now. Let's just live in this moment and enjoy the beauty of this season -- remembering to give thanks always!
"Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus ."
I Thessalonians 5:11
God's creation at its finest! I believe the beauty of autumn is God's gift to help those of us who live in northerly climes prepare for the long cold winter. But let's not think about that for now. Let's just live in this moment and enjoy the beauty of this season -- remembering to give thanks always!
"Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus ."
I Thessalonians 5:11
Greetings on Monday, Oct 10
Wonderful Grace of Jesus, greater than all our collective sin. Lavished on each of us. -- Shall we not offer grace to others just as God does to us ?
We are called to be agents of grace to a lost and dying world.
Grace filled. Graceful. Christ followers.
And again, from last week...How can we keep the good news, the gospel message, to ourselves?
God loves the whole world -- everyone -- so much that he sent his son to die for our sins.
That's Grace.
Jesus didn't come into the world to condemn us, he came to save us.
That's Grace.
Grace, grace, God's grace. Grace that is greater than all my sin.
Thank you, heavenly Father. Let me extend that same grace, your grace, to others.
Greetings on Monday, Sept. 26
Last week we dedicated the fellowship hall.
Now...we use the fellowship hall.
We fed nearly 200 people at the dedication service. Click the Building Project tab above to see the new hall all filled up!
Also last week, Kids Worship enjoyed the space and the audio visual equipment, and the snack ladies appreciated all the counter top area to prepare refreshments for the kiddos. (For more information about our terrific Thursday night kids program click the activities tab.)
Looking at the October calendar I'm seeing a dozen days/nights that the new room will be occupied with ministry and fellowship happenings. That's 12 and counting!
May God bless our every effort to serve Him by serving people with all of the resources He has provided. With God all things are possible! Without Him -- not so much.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5
Now...we use the fellowship hall.
We fed nearly 200 people at the dedication service. Click the Building Project tab above to see the new hall all filled up!
Also last week, Kids Worship enjoyed the space and the audio visual equipment, and the snack ladies appreciated all the counter top area to prepare refreshments for the kiddos. (For more information about our terrific Thursday night kids program click the activities tab.)
Looking at the October calendar I'm seeing a dozen days/nights that the new room will be occupied with ministry and fellowship happenings. That's 12 and counting!
May God bless our every effort to serve Him by serving people with all of the resources He has provided. With God all things are possible! Without Him -- not so much.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5
Greetings on Monday, Sept. 26th -- We Dedicate This Building
Brothers and sisters, we have assembled to dedicate this building to God as a place to be used for the sake of the Gospel, as a place dedicated for service of all generations to God and to His eternal kingdom. To the glory of God our Father, to the honor of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God and Our Lord and Savior, to the praise of the Holy Spirit, source of life and light.
For missionary endeavor at home and abroad; for world-wide evangelism and education, till all the kingdoms of the world become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; for the reform of social wrongs, till all human society is transformed by the power of the Gospel.
In grateful remembrance of all who have loved and served the kingdom; with hearts tender for those who have departed from this earthly habitation; a freewill offering of praise.
We dedicate this building.
We give this building to God to be used for the worship of God and for building his kingdom among men, women, and children of all generations. We do this in all sincerity of heart, with love for God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
AMEN!
For missionary endeavor at home and abroad; for world-wide evangelism and education, till all the kingdoms of the world become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; for the reform of social wrongs, till all human society is transformed by the power of the Gospel.
In grateful remembrance of all who have loved and served the kingdom; with hearts tender for those who have departed from this earthly habitation; a freewill offering of praise.
We dedicate this building.
We give this building to God to be used for the worship of God and for building his kingdom among men, women, and children of all generations. We do this in all sincerity of heart, with love for God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
AMEN!
Greetings on Monday, September 12th...
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matthew 5:14
Next Sunday we will dedicate this fabulous addition to our church building -- to our Lord -- for His use here in the community of Cambridge Springs and surrounding areas. A dinner will be served in the new fellowship hall at 5:00p.m. with a dedication service following. If you'd like to join us for a time of celebration, recognition, and remembrance click the contact page above and let us know!
9/11 Ten years later --
A sad day for so many people. Loved ones lost. Survivors traumatized. Onlookers horrified. Then and now people are looking for safety, security, and peace. We are small comfort to one another. There is only one who can deliver peace. There is only one who offers refuge and strength. Only one is truly a help in times of trouble.
He is the Lord God Almighty.
People need the Lord. All people need the Lord.
Matthew 5:14
Next Sunday we will dedicate this fabulous addition to our church building -- to our Lord -- for His use here in the community of Cambridge Springs and surrounding areas. A dinner will be served in the new fellowship hall at 5:00p.m. with a dedication service following. If you'd like to join us for a time of celebration, recognition, and remembrance click the contact page above and let us know!
9/11 Ten years later --
A sad day for so many people. Loved ones lost. Survivors traumatized. Onlookers horrified. Then and now people are looking for safety, security, and peace. We are small comfort to one another. There is only one who can deliver peace. There is only one who offers refuge and strength. Only one is truly a help in times of trouble.
He is the Lord God Almighty.
People need the Lord. All people need the Lord.
Greetings on Monday, September 5th...
For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven...
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Greetings on Monday, August 29...
Pressing on! The building project is getting so close to completion that we've set a date for a dedication celebration. Sunday September 18th at 5:00 we'll have a fellowship dinner followed by a service to dedicate our new fellowship hall. So mark your calendar and save the date. We'd love to have you as our guest.
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 3:13-14
Greeting on Monday, August 22...
The Pastor is on Vacation. The Crawford County Fair is in full swing. And...and...school starts next week. But summer isn't over; it just feels like it once the kids go back to school. Although the calendar says we have another month before fall officially begins we better grab the last bits of summer fun this week and next. All the while, get your school supplies in order, sharpen your pencils, practice waking up to your alarm clock, because like it or not students and teachers, you are back to the grind. Summer vacation not withstanding -- learning and growing never ceases!
Even for the rest of us, fall is a time to renew our routines. I am one of those people who doggedly determines to carry out new resolutions in the fall -- more so in the fall than at the start of the New Year. Regardless of when your resolve kicks in, know this...There is a time and season for everything under heaven.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
But in all seasons God is to be honored in all we do and say. Each and every season is an acceptable time to come to Him for salvation. Is it your time? Get with someone who knows God's plan of salvation or come to church and let the learning begin.
Even for the rest of us, fall is a time to renew our routines. I am one of those people who doggedly determines to carry out new resolutions in the fall -- more so in the fall than at the start of the New Year. Regardless of when your resolve kicks in, know this...There is a time and season for everything under heaven.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
But in all seasons God is to be honored in all we do and say. Each and every season is an acceptable time to come to Him for salvation. Is it your time? Get with someone who knows God's plan of salvation or come to church and let the learning begin.
For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.”
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.
2 Corinthians 6:2 New International Version (NIV)
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.
2 Corinthians 6:2 New International Version (NIV)
Greetings on Monday, August 15...
Pastor Cliff's message this week, A New Era, is very appropriate for the days we are entering as the completion of our building project nears. We're looking forward to using the new and the refurbished parts of our building to serve people and press on toward the goal of Making Disciples. Pastor reminded us that this is a time to draw closer to God, to pray, and to be open to new ways that God may call us to serve Him. (You may want to have another listen to Sunday's message, and to the "Deeper Life" series which began in May 2011 .)
Loving God and Loving People.
Reaching the lost and making disciples.
Building relationships.
Together!
Loving God and Loving People.
Reaching the lost and making disciples.
Building relationships.
Together!
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!...
I John 1:3
I John 1:3
Relationship building in action...
The coolest thing just happened. I got a phone call from someone asking if there were people here painting who might be staying on through lunch time.
Yes indeed. "Okay," she said," I'll go get a couple of pizzas for them for lunch."
(I'm running home to change into painting clothes so I can get in on the pizza too.)
Like the flash banner above says... Love God...Love People! How privileged we are to carry out the work He planned in advance for us to do!
Yes indeed. "Okay," she said," I'll go get a couple of pizzas for them for lunch."
(I'm running home to change into painting clothes so I can get in on the pizza too.)
Like the flash banner above says... Love God...Love People! How privileged we are to carry out the work He planned in advance for us to do!
Greetings on Monday, August 8...
It's Family Camp week at the Edinboro Conference Grounds! That's where you'll find Pastor Cliff if you need him this week. Church Office hours will remain the same -- don't hesitate to call if I can help you with anything.
The speaker at camp is Mark Marsden who comes to us from Florida, although he is a native of a city south of (as he says) the other Edinboro, Edinburgh, Scotland. His British accent is absolutely delightful...or you might say, smashing! His messages on Saturday and Sunday evenings were titled Come and Rest and Come and Follow. Excellent messages, both. I hope you'll be able to head on up to Edinboro and avail yourself of the ministries going on there. The evening service begins at 6:45 -- a missionary speaker and worship music precede the keynote speaker. Nursery is available for children up to age 4, a children's service for 5 year olds through 5th grade, and a Youth service for teens.
Meanwhile, to reiterate from last week: Carry on. Do the work which was prepared in advance for you to do until the day you see your Savior face to face!
In Christ, Betsy
The speaker at camp is Mark Marsden who comes to us from Florida, although he is a native of a city south of (as he says) the other Edinboro, Edinburgh, Scotland. His British accent is absolutely delightful...or you might say, smashing! His messages on Saturday and Sunday evenings were titled Come and Rest and Come and Follow. Excellent messages, both. I hope you'll be able to head on up to Edinboro and avail yourself of the ministries going on there. The evening service begins at 6:45 -- a missionary speaker and worship music precede the keynote speaker. Nursery is available for children up to age 4, a children's service for 5 year olds through 5th grade, and a Youth service for teens.
Meanwhile, to reiterate from last week: Carry on. Do the work which was prepared in advance for you to do until the day you see your Savior face to face!
In Christ, Betsy
Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:9-10 New Living Translation (NLT)
Greetings on Monday, August 1!
Look how the brick work is progressing on the outside of the church. And inside, there are recognizable rooms, some of them already drywalled. We appreciate the volunteers who show up daily or weekly to assist in so many facets of the project, including endless cleaning up, sweeping up, and moving building materials here, there, and back again, until they are all used up and in place. It requires great patience, stamina, and perseverance -- take time to say thanks to those who are spending time and energy to get 'er done.
Our goal all along has been to keep the ministry going through this building project, and the ministry does indeed go on! Many of our people were busy helping with Community Vacation Bible School this past week. They deserve a big thank you too. Pastor Cliff has had a hand in both VBS (as the beloved if somewhat goofy Skeeter) and the building project. He was on a mission to install audio visual wiring, scrambling just to keep ahead of the drywall crew. He also conducted a memorial service for Adrian Buell, the husband of our dear sister in the Lord, Edythe.
All that to say, there is a lot of work for us to do this side of heaven. But if our focus is on the deeper life, drawing closer to and glorifying God, there will always be strength for the journey. Uncle Billy, a delightfully amusing character from Jan Karon's Mitford books says, "There's no rest for the wicked and the righteous don't need none."
Last Sunday's message (July 24) in Pastor Cliff's Journey to the Deeper Life series -- The Way it Ought to Be, is now posted. It is an excellent, encouraging, and convicting message. This week's sermon, What Does God Deserve? is a perfect follow up. Click the sermons tab and listen to the two messages back to back -- it is so worth it! And then, carry on. Do the work which was prepared in advance for you to do (Eph. 2:10) until the day you see your glorious Savior face to face.
In His Love, Betsy
Our goal all along has been to keep the ministry going through this building project, and the ministry does indeed go on! Many of our people were busy helping with Community Vacation Bible School this past week. They deserve a big thank you too. Pastor Cliff has had a hand in both VBS (as the beloved if somewhat goofy Skeeter) and the building project. He was on a mission to install audio visual wiring, scrambling just to keep ahead of the drywall crew. He also conducted a memorial service for Adrian Buell, the husband of our dear sister in the Lord, Edythe.
All that to say, there is a lot of work for us to do this side of heaven. But if our focus is on the deeper life, drawing closer to and glorifying God, there will always be strength for the journey. Uncle Billy, a delightfully amusing character from Jan Karon's Mitford books says, "There's no rest for the wicked and the righteous don't need none."
Last Sunday's message (July 24) in Pastor Cliff's Journey to the Deeper Life series -- The Way it Ought to Be, is now posted. It is an excellent, encouraging, and convicting message. This week's sermon, What Does God Deserve? is a perfect follow up. Click the sermons tab and listen to the two messages back to back -- it is so worth it! And then, carry on. Do the work which was prepared in advance for you to do (Eph. 2:10) until the day you see your glorious Savior face to face.
In His Love, Betsy
Greetings on Monday, July 25! Please be in prayer for Community Vacation Bible School all week long!
Our building project work continues -- inside and out. Brick laying is coming along, doors are being installed, insulation fills the studded walls, heat and air conditioning ducts are nearly complete. It's all very exciting. I've put a few more pictures on the Buidling Project page if you'd like to check out the progress.
I'm feeling a little out of touch this morning. I missed the Sunday morning message, and can't find a copy of it. But I heard that it was really good, so check back later this week -- that's what I'm going to do -- and perhaps it will be posted.
Pastor Cliff continued the series Journey to the Deeper Life and the title of this week's message was The Way it Ought to Be.
Revelation 21:9-19 and 21-27 New Living Translation (NLT)
Then one of the seven angels who held the seven bowls containing the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come with me! I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” So he took me in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone—like jasper as clear as crystal. The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. There were three gates on each side—east, north, south, and west. The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. The angel who talked to me held in his hand a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. When he measured it, he found it was a square, as wide as it was long. In fact, its length and width and height were each 1,400 miles. Then he measured the walls and found them to be 216 feet thick (according to the human standard used by the angel). The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald...
The twelve gates were made of pearls—each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. The nations will walk in its light, and the kings of the world will enter the city in all their glory. Its gates will never be closed at the end of day because there is no night there. And all the nations will bring their glory and honor into the city. Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
Is your name written there?
In His Love, Betsy
I'm feeling a little out of touch this morning. I missed the Sunday morning message, and can't find a copy of it. But I heard that it was really good, so check back later this week -- that's what I'm going to do -- and perhaps it will be posted.
Pastor Cliff continued the series Journey to the Deeper Life and the title of this week's message was The Way it Ought to Be.
Revelation 21:9-19 and 21-27 New Living Translation (NLT)
Then one of the seven angels who held the seven bowls containing the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come with me! I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” So he took me in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone—like jasper as clear as crystal. The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. There were three gates on each side—east, north, south, and west. The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. The angel who talked to me held in his hand a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. When he measured it, he found it was a square, as wide as it was long. In fact, its length and width and height were each 1,400 miles. Then he measured the walls and found them to be 216 feet thick (according to the human standard used by the angel). The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald...
The twelve gates were made of pearls—each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. The nations will walk in its light, and the kings of the world will enter the city in all their glory. Its gates will never be closed at the end of day because there is no night there. And all the nations will bring their glory and honor into the city. Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
Is your name written there?
In His Love, Betsy
Monday Greetings from the Church Office! (July 18)
Progress
The Pastor's current series has led us on a journey to a deeper spiritual life through the power of the Holy Spirit. When by faith we believe in Christ and receive the free gift of salvation our redemption is sealed in heaven through the person of the Holy Spirit. Our name will be written in the Lamb's book of life. That's a promise.!
This Sunday's message (which is worth a second listen!) began by acknowledging the difficulties we face here on earth. Life is not easy much of the time, but if we trust and obey the God who saved us, scripture assures that every trial builds patience, endurance, strength and wisdom.
The first chapter of James reminds us to count it all joy when trials come our way. Some days that scripture makes me groan. But for every trial I've faced and come through -- with God's help and by his grace -- I find great contentment, peace, and joy. Why? Because every trial brings me closer to the God I love, my savior and my redeemer. And that is what we long for as Christians, to be closer to God, more like Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit. Finally, our abiding hope and the culmination of our journey here on earth is this: we'll see Him face to face. Hallelujah!
In closing we sang What a Day That Will Be -- There is coming a day when no heartaches shall come, no more clouds in the sky, no more tears to dim the eye... There'll be no sorrow there, no more burdens to bear, no more sickness, no pain, no more parting over there... All is peace...And forever I will be with the one who died for me...What a day, glorious day that will be!
Waiting for it. Longing for it. What a day, glorious day that will be!
In His Love, Betsy
P.S. Reminder: Thursdays are church family swim days at Hennings. Come on over any time. Bring your own towel, and if you're under 16, bring your own lifeguard. Come on in, the water's fine!
This Sunday's message (which is worth a second listen!) began by acknowledging the difficulties we face here on earth. Life is not easy much of the time, but if we trust and obey the God who saved us, scripture assures that every trial builds patience, endurance, strength and wisdom.
The first chapter of James reminds us to count it all joy when trials come our way. Some days that scripture makes me groan. But for every trial I've faced and come through -- with God's help and by his grace -- I find great contentment, peace, and joy. Why? Because every trial brings me closer to the God I love, my savior and my redeemer. And that is what we long for as Christians, to be closer to God, more like Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit. Finally, our abiding hope and the culmination of our journey here on earth is this: we'll see Him face to face. Hallelujah!
In closing we sang What a Day That Will Be -- There is coming a day when no heartaches shall come, no more clouds in the sky, no more tears to dim the eye... There'll be no sorrow there, no more burdens to bear, no more sickness, no pain, no more parting over there... All is peace...And forever I will be with the one who died for me...What a day, glorious day that will be!
Waiting for it. Longing for it. What a day, glorious day that will be!
In His Love, Betsy
P.S. Reminder: Thursdays are church family swim days at Hennings. Come on over any time. Bring your own towel, and if you're under 16, bring your own lifeguard. Come on in, the water's fine!
Goggles, lifejacket, waterwings, 4 inches of water. Safe as can be!
Greetings -- July 11
Ephesians 1:15-23
Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom
Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God’s people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.
I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.
May God grant us the desire to seek spiritual wisdom in this very way. What a blessing to be filled completely with Christ as individuals and as a church! Amen? If you missed the sermon, be sure to have a listen by clicking above. Then do as Pastor Cliff recommended, recommit to loving God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind. As we draw nearer to Him , He will draw nearer to us -- and His goodness will fill us and flow out of us. To God be all the Glory!
In His Love, Betsy
P.S. Hennings pool is open! Tom and I have designated Thursdays as "church family swim day". Come on over any time of day. Bring your own towel, and if you're under 16, bring your own lifeguard. (With these hot temps, don't wait until Thursday to come for a dip -- come any day!)
Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom
Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God’s people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.
I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.
May God grant us the desire to seek spiritual wisdom in this very way. What a blessing to be filled completely with Christ as individuals and as a church! Amen? If you missed the sermon, be sure to have a listen by clicking above. Then do as Pastor Cliff recommended, recommit to loving God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind. As we draw nearer to Him , He will draw nearer to us -- and His goodness will fill us and flow out of us. To God be all the Glory!
In His Love, Betsy
P.S. Hennings pool is open! Tom and I have designated Thursdays as "church family swim day". Come on over any time of day. Bring your own towel, and if you're under 16, bring your own lifeguard. (With these hot temps, don't wait until Thursday to come for a dip -- come any day!)
Greetings June 27 -- New Beginnings
I have a blog called Regeneration...refreshed, renewed, regenerated. Having deleted my original blog and finding that I missed it terribly, I decided to start again. I was refreshed, renewed and regenerated -- and I began again, began anew. That's what the Christian life is all about, regeneration. It starts with a relationship with Jesus Christ who makes all things new. Redemption comes through his death on the cross and his resurrection. He died for our sins, once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous (I Peter 3:18) and in recognizing that we become new...reconciled with God, recreated, reborn, the old has passed away, everything becomes new (II Cor. 5:17).
Not to force the metaphor, but... Lots of things are becoming new here at Cambridge Springs Alliance Church. We're adding on to our building; soon it will be new and improved, bigger and better. Click the tab for the building project above and see the progress. We're building a new website; which will be easier for me to use and less frustrating for our techno-guy who has to keep fixing things when I mess up . At least that's the hope and the goal.
If you are new to this site, click the tabs above to find your way around. There is an archive/blog page to see other messages from the church office. If you are a regular to the previous site, click the tabs above and please let us know if something is missing from before. Help us to renovate and refresh our church website. Thanks! Betsy
Not to force the metaphor, but... Lots of things are becoming new here at Cambridge Springs Alliance Church. We're adding on to our building; soon it will be new and improved, bigger and better. Click the tab for the building project above and see the progress. We're building a new website; which will be easier for me to use and less frustrating for our techno-guy who has to keep fixing things when I mess up . At least that's the hope and the goal.
If you are new to this site, click the tabs above to find your way around. There is an archive/blog page to see other messages from the church office. If you are a regular to the previous site, click the tabs above and please let us know if something is missing from before. Help us to renovate and refresh our church website. Thanks! Betsy
Summer Greetings! June 20
We're back...actually Steve's back! I was right here in the good ole U.S. of A. But I was afraid of messing up the website while Steve was in China -- too far away to fix it up if I needed help.
Summertime is here in earnest, not necessarily weather-wise, but very much so calendar-wise. Edinboro youth camps are in full swing. A summer party is being planned for kids (see Kids Worship!). Work on the building is going gang busters. Next week will be the 4th of July -- and doesn't that kind of mean summer is half over? Goodness, let's not think that way.
Pastor's message this week was about coming into the Lord's presence, having the presence of the Lord within our lives, within our church -- strong and sure and real. For where the presence of the Lord is there is peace, and comfort, and joy. If the presence of the Lord fills our lives we will have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If we are filled with the presence of the Lord, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit -- it will show up in our lives. And others will be drawn to our Heavenly Father, not because of us, but because of the Spirit in us.
The service ended with a challenge to come to an altar of prayer and give ourselves over to God, opening ourselves up to the fullness of the Lord's presence in our lives.
Many came. Many prayed. I was one of the many, and I have this to say to all of us. Look out. Be on guard. Satan is not pleased and will do his best to thwart any advancing of God's kingdom here in Cambridge Springs and the surrounding area. He is not pleased. Yet scripture assures us, "Greater is HE that is in (us), than he that is in the world." I'm writing this today because I've felt the enemy pressing in on my life. If you've felt the same stand firm in your faith and stand firm against the devil who comes to steal our joy and peace. Draw close to God, our strong tower and refuge, and He will draw close to us. Amen?
Let's hold one another up in prayer.
In His Love, Betsy
P.S. It's summertime and the Hennings' pool is open! Tom and I have designated Thursdays as "church family swim day". Come on over any time of day. Bring your own towel, and if you are under 16, bring your own lifeguard.
Summertime is here in earnest, not necessarily weather-wise, but very much so calendar-wise. Edinboro youth camps are in full swing. A summer party is being planned for kids (see Kids Worship!). Work on the building is going gang busters. Next week will be the 4th of July -- and doesn't that kind of mean summer is half over? Goodness, let's not think that way.
Pastor's message this week was about coming into the Lord's presence, having the presence of the Lord within our lives, within our church -- strong and sure and real. For where the presence of the Lord is there is peace, and comfort, and joy. If the presence of the Lord fills our lives we will have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If we are filled with the presence of the Lord, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit -- it will show up in our lives. And others will be drawn to our Heavenly Father, not because of us, but because of the Spirit in us.
The service ended with a challenge to come to an altar of prayer and give ourselves over to God, opening ourselves up to the fullness of the Lord's presence in our lives.
Many came. Many prayed. I was one of the many, and I have this to say to all of us. Look out. Be on guard. Satan is not pleased and will do his best to thwart any advancing of God's kingdom here in Cambridge Springs and the surrounding area. He is not pleased. Yet scripture assures us, "Greater is HE that is in (us), than he that is in the world." I'm writing this today because I've felt the enemy pressing in on my life. If you've felt the same stand firm in your faith and stand firm against the devil who comes to steal our joy and peace. Draw close to God, our strong tower and refuge, and He will draw close to us. Amen?
Let's hold one another up in prayer.
In His Love, Betsy
P.S. It's summertime and the Hennings' pool is open! Tom and I have designated Thursdays as "church family swim day". Come on over any time of day. Bring your own towel, and if you are under 16, bring your own lifeguard.
Memorial Day Week
Thank you to all of those who have served in our country's military!
Let's all be sure to honor the veterans we know, and remember those who have given their lives for our country and our freedom.
This week's message, Dual Citizens, is based on 1st Peter 2. We are encouraged to honor God by honoring people. This is a timely thought with Memorial Day and all. But, it isn't just a holiday example, it's for every day...for those who are called according to God's purpose. Even having been called, we remain citizens of this world. With that dual citizenship in heaven and on earth comes dual responsibility.
I particularly love 1st Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
So here we are, chosen people, royal and all that, clearly called to be obedient and submissive to the authorities of this world. Called to be humble servants following the example of Christ our Lord.
Our good conduct here on earth is spelled out for us in 1st Peter 2:17, we are called to Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
In obedience to scripture my desire this week is to:
Honor ALL people
Love my brothers and sisters
Fear God
Honor the King of Kings
In His Love, Betsy
Let's all be sure to honor the veterans we know, and remember those who have given their lives for our country and our freedom.
This week's message, Dual Citizens, is based on 1st Peter 2. We are encouraged to honor God by honoring people. This is a timely thought with Memorial Day and all. But, it isn't just a holiday example, it's for every day...for those who are called according to God's purpose. Even having been called, we remain citizens of this world. With that dual citizenship in heaven and on earth comes dual responsibility.
I particularly love 1st Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
So here we are, chosen people, royal and all that, clearly called to be obedient and submissive to the authorities of this world. Called to be humble servants following the example of Christ our Lord.
Our good conduct here on earth is spelled out for us in 1st Peter 2:17, we are called to Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
In obedience to scripture my desire this week is to:
Honor ALL people
Love my brothers and sisters
Fear God
Honor the King of Kings
In His Love, Betsy