2012
Thankful
The apostle Paul does not teach us that we should thank God for everything, but in everything. Evil is not from God, but when evil strikes we know that God is with us and we will learn from the experience. "Be joyful always; pray continuously; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ." -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.
Change
For many of us, "change" is a fearful word, but we are meant to spend our lifetimes transforming into the likeness of Christ. "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." -2 Corinthians 3:18. -Pastor Mike
Fire
"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." - John 8:12. Jesus spoke this in the part of the temple where candles burned to represent the pillar of fire that lead the Israelites through the desert. Allow Jesus to be your guiding light. -Pastor Mike
Pretense
Ever do something just to be noticed? Even if it was something that benefitted someone else, if you did it ultimately for your glory, it was wasted effort in the eyes of Jesus. "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." -Matthew 56:1. - Pastor Mike
Trust
Have you ever participated in "trust exercises"? We tend to put our trust in ourselves rather than others. Because salvation (forgiveness of our sins) comes from God alone, we can trust him and know that he will give us strength. "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength." -Isaiah 30:15a. -Pastor Mike
Attitude
How would you describe your attitude? Are you a person that expects to be served or a person with a servant's heart? Jesus is our perfect example of one who gave up his rights to serve God and others. "Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ." -Philippians 2:5. Remember, you choose your attitude! -Pastor Mike
Armor Up!
Ever feel downtrodden? We battle daily against the powers of darkness and evil. Like a well-trained soldier, we must be prepared to be protected. Read your Bible, get counsel from mature Christians, and have a daily time of prayer. "Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." -Ephesians 6:11. -Pastor Mike
Faith
We may not remember our first birthday party, but after a few of them, we knew what wonderful experiences to expect. Faith also contains assurance and anticipation. Faith is based on our past experiences that God provided, is providing, and will provide. "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." -Hebrews 11:1. -Pastor Mike
Busyness
God wants us to spend time with him. Remember the story of Mary and Martha? Martha thought that Mary was not helping enough. "Martha, Martha", the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." -Luke 10:41. -Pastor Mike
Your Story
What are your favorite stories about you or your family?
Why do you like those particular stories?
I am inviting you to respond to this blog by answering the two questions above.
