I pray these daily verses and short thoughts are an encouragement to you when you read them and throughout the day. Fill your mind with God’s Word! May God Be Glorified!
Galatians 3:28-29 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
The key words in this scripture is “in Christ Jesus.” We are all one who accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We are all one who trust in Him completely and give our life to Him. We talk about so many different divisions in our country but the biggest and most important division is the saved and the lost.
3/31/2022
Luke 6:46 “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?
A pretty straightforward verse. We say that Jesus is our Lord, or Master and yet we don’t listen to what He tells us to do and not to do. He tells us in scripture that if we love Him we will keep His commands. So how do we measure up to these two verses? Do we love Him? Is he our Lord?
3/29/2023
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight
What will you trust in today? Sadly we usually trust in ourselves, I can assure you that doesn’t usually turn out well. My prayer for myself and others is that we will trust in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ today and on Him completely rely. His path isn’t always easy but it is the straight way! Trust in Him today no matter what obstacle you are facing and know that He is with you each and every step of the way!
3/28/2023
John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
Sermon – Marriage and Resurrection – Matthew 22:23-33
3/27/2023
Nahum 1:7 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,
We all have times in our life where we go through difficult and challenging times. We face uncertainty. Let us always remember we can turn to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We can find peace and comfort in Him. Trust in Him today and do not let the fear of your situation have a place in you.
3/24/2023
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
People are in one of two places. They need, a pure heart, they need salvation. They need forgiveness from their sin. Or they are Christians, and they need renewed. They need forgiven, refreshed and reenergized. What are you in need of today? Go to God through Jesus the son and receive what you need!
3/23/2023
Acts 5:29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!
Sermon – God and Government – Matthew 22:15-22
3/22/2023
Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Time and time again in the Bible we are told to love others. We are told to put others before ourselves. This is such a difficult thing to do because it goes against our sinful nature. Look around you, there are people who are needing to be loved, are needing to experience someone caring for them and doing good to them. Who do you need to love today?
3/21/2023
2 Corinthians 5:21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God
Sermon – The End of the Trilogy
3/20/2023
Psalms 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Several years ago my wife and I attended a conference on blended families! It was such a blessing and we are blessed as a family in so many ways! Being a blended family isn’t always easy and isn’t the way God intended things to be but He can still use us in ways that glorify Him! God can use the broken and blended!
3/9/2023
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
As Christians we can experience a comfort like none other. We have God’s word and the power of the Holy Spirit alive in us. Because of this we should not only be comforted but we should also reach out to others and help comfort them when they are going through a challenging time as well. When is the last time you reached out to someone you knew was hurting, make that call or stop and see that hurting person today?
3/8/2023
Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,
As Christians we have to be careful of the places we put ourselves. Who do we surround ourselves with? Are we around people that will lift us up and draw us closer to God or are we around people that will drag us down and pull us away from our Lord and Savior? Who will you be around today?
3/7/2023
Matthew 21:42 Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’
The Jews rejected Jesus not realizing He is the Messiah. He is the foundation and starting point of the Kingdom. Is He the foundation of your life? Do you build everything off of him so it is square and firm? Accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and make Him the cornerstone of your life.
3/6/2023
Psalm 136:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.
May we have hearts of thankfulness. Always thanking God for the blessing and struggles we face. It may be hard at times, but God has a plan, and we can rest in that plan, even the difficult times. Remember today how much you are loved by our Lord and Savior and that love will never end. Talk about something to be thankful for!
3/3/2023
Colossians 3:14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Above all of these…That is a pretty meaningful statement. Love brings it all together. If you want to be able to forgive, if you want to live out kindness, compassion, humility, gentleness, and patience, it starts with love. Agape love like God has given us. Pray today that you live a life filled with love for others.
3/2/2023
Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Forgive. Such a hard thing for us to do. We have been hurt, we have been wronged, we didn’t deserve what they did to us. It doesn’t matter, we are still called to forgive. Not only should we forgive but we need to forgive in the way that Jesus forgives us. Who do you need to forgive? Who have you struggled to give the forgiveness called has called you to give? Forgive them today!
3/1/2023
Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
What a great checklist for us as Christian to live by. Some of those words a challenge to live at times but it is how we are to shine His light for others to see.
2/28/2023
Mark 1:14-15 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believethe good news!”
Sermon – Which Are You? – Matthew 21:28-32
2/27/2023
Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it
This verse is a reminder of how important it is to us to control our thoughts. As our thoughts go so our life goes! Our thoughts turn into actions. What are you thinking about today? How is it growing you closer to Christ?
5/23/2019
Mark 4:39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
We often forget the end of that verse, there was a great calm. You may be going through a difficult time in your life, a real doozy of a storm that seems like the worst ever. Just remember, there is a calm coming. We don’t know when it will come or how but it is coming. Trust in the one that the wind and and sea obey.
2/23/2023
1 Peter 5:7 Cast all of your anxiety on Him because he cares for you!
The word cast means to throw off and get as far away from as you can. As Christians we don’t have to carry the worry and anxiety in our life. We can give it to God and know that he is in control and loves you! Even if you are going through a very difficult time right now know that Christ is with you!
2/22/2023
Romans 8:37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
More than conquerors, that is a pretty powerful thing to be! Paul lists some pretty terrible things to face and overcome in verses 35 and 36 but he was able to not only face them but conquer them through the power of Christ Jesus! What in your life do you need to conquer? Give it to God and trust in Him!
2/21/23
Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.
The Fruit of Your Lips…What are the things you say? Are they things that point other to Christ or turn them away from Him? Glorify and Praise the Lord with the things that you say!
Sermon – Fruit & Prayer – Matthew 21:18-22
2/16/2023
John 15:12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.
As we celebrate Valentines Day, a day of love. Let us be reminded of this command God has given us. To love each other just as He loved us. Jesus isn’t just talking about our spouse. He is talking about loving everyone around us. Quite a challenge but one that as Christians we should step up to. Love the people in your life today, even the ones that are a challenge.
2/14/2023
Matthew 25:37-39 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
This is such an important reminder to us that we are to take care of those who are around us. Sometimes we see people that are in need, and we see them as lazy, worthless, a problem or something else. When really these are the people that God is calling us to reach out and help. What can you do today to be a blessing to one of these?
2/10/2023
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Think about this for a moment. The God who created the universe created you. You are a masterpiece of God. He didn’t create you to just hang out like a painting on a wall though. He created you to bear fruit for Him. There are things He wants you to do for Him this week. Live the purpose God created you for today and everyday!
2/9/2023
Matthew 21:13 “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’[a] but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’”
Sermon – His House – Matthew 21:12-17
2/8/2023
Hebrews 10:24 Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Following Christ isn’t an individual lifestyle. We should be working together to lift up and encourage each other! I pray today that you are reaching out and encouraging others in Christ to love the way He has called us to love and to do His will!
2/7/2023
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
I think sometimes as Christians we forget this verse. We have the power of the Holy Spirit alive in us and we are empowered by it to overcome anything that Satan may throw at us. The thing is we have a decision to make, are we going to listen to Satan or the Holy Spirit and God’s Word?
2/6/2023
Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light
Remember today that you are light and that we live in a dark world. Sometimes God puts us in places because He needs His light there. It may be challenging, and you may feel like you are the only light around but shine bright for Christ. Let others see Him in you!
2/3/2023
Matthew 21:42 Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is what the Lord has done, and it is wonderful in our eyes?
The world rejected Jesus. They did that over 2000 years ago and they are still doing it today. Sadly, they do not realize what they are missing out on and the work that God is doing through His son. Don’t make the same mistake and reject Jesus, come to Him and trust in Him completely.
2/2/2023
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
Nothing, there is nothing that can separate us from the Love of Christ once we have accepted Him as our Lord in Savior. Our sin separates us but if we will acknowledge we are sinners, believe that He is God, confess our sins and ask for forgiveness He will save us!
2/1/2023
1 Timothy 1:15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
Paul is writing these words in a letter to Timothy but really all of us can say that we are the worse sinner because no matter what sins or how many sins we commit they keep us away from God. Thankfully, Jesus was willing to come and do what needed to be done so that we could be saved and be at peace with God. Thank you Jesus for saving me, a sinner, the worst.
1/31/2023
Matthew 21:9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
Sermon – He Has Arrived – Matthew 21:1-11
1/30/2023
John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep
Too often we forget what Jesus did for us. He was willing to die for us even though we didn’t deserve it. Each day we need to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us and let that motivate us to live the way He is calling us to live.
1/27/2023
Deuteronomy 31:8 The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
I love this verse! God has our future laid out for us and not only that but will walk through it with us! He is always with us, ALWAYS even when it seems He may not be! No reason to fear because we don’t know what is going to happen and no reason to be discouraged if things don’t go our way. They will go the way our Lord and Savior wants them to!
1/26/2023
1 Peter 1:22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart
This verse always makes me think of my wife. I am so blessed with a wonderful wife who loves me and loves God even more. Tell the people you love them and then spend your life showing that love to them! Love is an action word, put your love into action and love deeply from the heart!
1/25/2023
Romans 16:27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior then through your relationship with Him and the guidance of the Holy Spirit you should be glorifying God. Our actions, choices, speech and relationships should bring Glory to God and point others towards Him. I pray today that you ask yourself is what I am doing and saying glorifying God!
1/24/2023
Psalm 130:3-4 If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? 4 But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.
I am so thankful that the lord doesn’t not keep a running list of my sins! I am thankful that he makes things new! Forgiveness is something we can be thankful for every day. Because we are forgiven, we are then to serve Him. How will you serve Him today?
1/23/2023
2 Corinthians 4:17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
I am not saying that some of you may be going through some really hard and difficult situations but this reminds us what they really are compared to what is to come for those who are saved. Paul describes them as light and momentary. The may feel like a heavy burden now but they are nothing but a feather compared to what glory with God. Your troubles may seem like they just won’t stop and keep going and going but compared to eternity they are just a blink of time. I pray these words are encouragement no matter what struggle you may go through.
1/20/2023
Mathew 12:30 Anyone who is not with me is against me, and anyone who does not gather with me scatters
Jesus makes things pretty clear in this verse. There are two sides, and we are on one or the other. There is no middle ground with God. Are you with Jesus today or are you against Him?
1/18/2023
Matthew 10:30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
This is an interesting verse. When I read it, I am reminded of how powerful but yet how personal our Lord and Savior is. He rules all things and is above all things, but he knows and cares about me.
1/17/2023
Matthew 20:32 Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked.
Sermon – Open My Eyes – Matthew 20:29-34
1/16/2022
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
God’s way or the world’s way. They for sure are not the same and we have to ask ourselves which way we are following. If you are having a hard time knowing God’s will for your life maybe you are living the world’s way instead of God’s.
1/14/2022
1 Chronicles 16:8 Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
What has God done in your life? I bet if you started listing all the ways he has impacted your life and blessed you it would be quite the list. When is the last time you told someone, what God has done in your life? We are told in today’s verse that we should be doing that. Another way we can make him known to others.
1/13/2023
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Living the life God has called you to live isn’t always easy and doesn’t always make sense but if we will staying in His will it will work out they way he wants it to and it will be better than we could have done apart from Him!
1/12/2023
Isaiah 43:18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
We are reminded that we don’t have to hold on to the negative things of our past. Each day and year is a new beginning. An opportunity to start fresh and live the way God has called us to live, a way that glorifies Him!
1/11/2023
Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
We need to remember who our real enemy is. I think it would really change relationships a lot if we focused on the real root of evil.
1/10/2022
Matthew 20:26-28 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Sermon – Power to Serve – Matthew 20:17-28
1/9/2023
James 3:4-5 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
We were taught a phrase growing up, “Stick and stones may break my bones but words will never harm me.” Well let me tell you that is a lie. Words hurt. Our tongue may seem small but it can inflict great pain. As a teacher and principal most of the problems I deal with are because of things that are said. The words that are spoken can hurt and impact others not just in that moment but for a very long time. Work hard to give God control of your tongue!
1/7/2023
2 Chronicles 20:32 He followed the ways of his father Asa and did not stray from them; he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD.
There are two points that stand out in this verse. Working backwards, Jehoshaphat did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. Man, what a way to be described! Would someone describe you and the way you live in that way? The second point it that he followed the example his dad had set. Think about that, as a parent your kids are possibly going to live the way you live. They are going to either see a Godly example they should follow or an evil example that leads them away from Christ.
1/6/2023
Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Why do you do what you do? Do you do it so you will look good and stand out or do you do it so that others will see Christ through you. Do you make other people want to know more about you or more about your Savior? Let your life be an arrow that points to God!
1/5/2023
Ephesians 5:1-2 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
As children we follow the example our parents set. We look up to them and talk and act the way they do. That is what we are to do with your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are to love others the way that Jesus loves us and sacrificed himself for us. Who do you live like? Start making it be Christ today and every day!
1/4/2023
Hebrews 6:10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
Sermon – Just and Generous – Matthew 20:1-16
1/3/2023
Matthew 5:45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
Sermon – Just and Generous – Matthew 20:1-16
1/2/2023
Luke 1:30-31 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
What a wonderful announcement this was! The greatest birth announcement ever! Now it is our turn as Christians to make a wonderful resurrection announcement! To tell others that this King has risen from the dead and will reign forever!
12/20/2022
Matthew 1:23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” which means “God with us”
God with us, what a wonderful phrase. How amazing that God came down and walked among us. That He was willing to come and take on a human body and live an example for us while preparing to be the ultimate sacrifice for us. Thank you Jesus!
12/19/2022
Isaiah 66:13 As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you;
Today is my Mom’s Birthday. She has been such an amazing blessing to me and all of our family! She has seen us through the good times and the challenges and has always been there no matter what! Thank you God for blessing me with an amazing mom!
12/17/2022
John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
The lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. That is what Jesus is and what Jesus did for us! Today I thank Him for being the sacrificial lamb needed to take away my sins. I am so thankful that He loved me enough to come and die for me! He did the same for you too!
12/16/2022
John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
I love when this verse says that Jesus was full of grace and truth! I thank Him for being full of grace and willing to give us what we don’t desertion, salvation from our sins. I wish that more people knew the truth and that I did a better job of sharing the truth with others!
12/15/2022
Luke 2:13-14 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Peace and Good Will. Two things we don’t have a lot of these days. Why? We don’t have a lot of God. We have taken Him out of our schools, our government and our homes. It hurts my heart to think about how far our country and people in general have moved away from God. In what ways have you moved away from God? What things in your life are you making more important than Him? Lets have more peace and good will towards one another by having more God in our lives!
12/14/2022
Mark 1:1 The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God,
Sermon – Jesus & John – Christmas Sermon #3 – Mark 1:1-13
12/12/2022
Jude 1:24-25 To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
There is just something about this verse when I read it that just puts me in awe of God. One day I will be presented before God without fault even though there is much fault in my life. Thanks to the work of Jesus Christ. That should be joy in my life! Then to think about those powerful words, glory, majesty, power and authority! He is so deserving! Lastly, He is eternal! Always has been and always will be! Thank you, God, for who you are and what you do!
12/9/2022
Luke 2:10-11 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
The good news is that the good news the angel was talking about is still impactful today. Because Jesus came and gave himself as a sacrifice for us, we can have a personal relationship with him that will bring a joy that is like none other. Rejoice today in the good news the angels brought.
12/8/2022
Luke 6:27-28 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.
There are some verse that I wish weren’t in the Bible because what they say is so hard to do, this is one of them. This goes against our natural response but often times doing things God’s way does. The impact we can have on others by living this way is huge. Make the personal sacrifice and live out this scripture today and every day.
12/7/2022
1 John 4:1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
There are false prophets even today. Preachers who do not preach the word of God. They may preach great sermons that make you go wow he is such an awesome preacher. However, if he preaches without using scripture you need to find a new church! If he doesn’t preach about salvation, run! If he doesn’t preach about discipleship, run. Pray that God will lead you to a strong church built on the foundation of His word today!
12/6/2022
Hebrews 11:31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.
Sermon – Christmas #2 – Quite the Family
12/5/2022
Psalm 103:12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
What a great reminder today of what Jesus does with our sins when we confess and repent. The problem isn’t what Jesus does the problem is that we struggle to leave our sins in the past. We keep bringing them up. We let the guilt and the shame keep us from living the way God would have us to live. Don’t bring back sins that Jesus has already forgiven!
12/2/2022
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
God sent His Son to die for our sins so we could be saved and brought into a relationship with Him. Once we have accepted that gift it then becomes our job to let others know what Christ has done for us. We need to do everything we can so that people come to know Jesus and what He did for them!
12/1/2022
Matthew 1:21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
Jesus came with a purpose and that purpose is told to us in this verse, to save us from our sins. He goes to the root of all of our problems, sin. We can try to deal with the stuff in our life but until we deal with the sin and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior we are fighting a losing battle. Find Victory in Jesus.
Sermon – For To Us – Isaiah 9:1-6 – Christmas #1
11/29/2022
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Sermon – For To Us – Isaiah 9:1-6 – Christmas #1
11/28/2022
Colossians 1:3-4 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people
Sermon – Thank God! – Colossians 1:3-8
11/20/2022
Hebrews 13:6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
How often do we live in a state of fear? Quite often I think we would say if we were being honest. However, if we remember that Christ is with us, we have no reason to be afraid. Are there people and things in this world that can hurt us? Yes, but they can’t touch our eternal life. They can’t snatch us out of His hands.
11/18/2022
1 Corinthians 11:1 And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.
I would say if you could live your life the way Paul did you would be doing a really good job. Paul did what he could to live the way Jesus lived while He was on the Earth. Jesus have us an example of how we should live. If you can approach each day and minute living the way Jesus did just think of the impact you can have on others around you.
11/17/2022
2 Corinthians 3:12 Since we have such a hope, we are very bold
As Christians we have hope, a promised future of what is to come. Knowing what our future is for all eternity should empower us to be bold. What does bold text do on a page or a screen? It stands out. It is different than the text around it. As Christians we should stand out. We should look different than others around it. We should be ready and willing to speak out, step up and share the gospel.
11/16/2022
Hebrews 12:5-6 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.
There are things that we do that God does not approve of in our lives. Just like when I was growing up there were things, I did that my parents didn’t approve of. Because of that I faced consequences at times. It wasn’t because my dad didn’t like me it was because he loved me and wanted me to learn. The same goes with our Heavenly Father. He doesn’t just let us live wild and full of sin because He loves us and want so much more for us.
11/15/2022
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Sermon – Is It Worth It? – Matthew 19:27-30
11/14/2022
Hebrews 9:22 In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
Today I thank Jesus for his blood that brings salvation to those who accept Him as their Lord and Savior.
11/11/2022
Hebrews 2:18 Since He himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.
We don’t face anything that Jesus himself didn’t face. He knows the hard times, suffering and temptations we go through. He is always there to help us when we go through these times. So, the next time you are facing temptations or difficult times remember you are not alone. He who has overcome is there with you.
11/10/2022
Acts 20:35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
This is a verse that we should all remember and apply. We are all about what is in it for me. We want to know what we will get out of something. We need to be looking for ways to give, way to bless others. How can you give to someone else today?
11/9/2022
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
As I celebrate my 50th Birthday today I am reflecting on the people who have encouraged me, built me up, poured and to me and lifted me up during the challenging times. God has blessed me beyond measure, and I thank everyone who has been and continues to be a part of my story that God is writing. May I be a blessing to all of you in the way you have been to me! Thank you!
11/8/2022
Matthew 19:23-24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
10/7/2022
Hebrews 2:1 We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.
There isn’t a lot to say about this verse because it is very straightforward. The teaching we receive from God’s word and from Godly preachers is so very important. We can’t only hear it we have to put it to action in our life and build our life up on it. If you feel yourself drifting away from God, you may need some Godly teaching.
11/4/2022
Philippians 3:8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ
Everything a loss, except knowing Jesus as your Lord and Savior. At a time when Powerball is a crazy 1.5 Billion dollars people are going crazy about buying the winning ticket. There is nothing they would want more, but there should be something they want more, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the promise of eternity.
11/3/2022
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.
I thank God for His grace and for the fact that it is available to everyone. There is no one who can not experience the Grace of God and be Saved by the work of Jesus on the Cross.
11/2/2022
2 Timothy 2:1 Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus.
Paul is telling Timothy, and us, not to find our strength in ourselves. Our strength should come from God. Grace is the power to our salvation and the power to live a Godly life each and every day.
11/1/2022
2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
How are you living? If you are saved are you living like you have the Holy Spirit alive in you? Do you understand the same power that raised Jesus from the grave is alive inside of you! Knowing this you have no reason to live a life of caution. Step out in the power of God and live for Him by loving others and being a strong example for them.
10/27/2022
1 Timothy 6:7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.
Too often people spend their life trying to accumulate stuff. Paul says a few verses later that God provides us with all things for our enjoyment. There has to be a balance. We can’t place the things of this world at the top of our list. We have to place how we can glorify God and impact others for him at the top. All of our worldly possessions will be gone someday but the work we did for Christ will last.
10/26/2022
John 15:12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.
This is such a simple verse but a very difficult verse too. Jesus tells us what we are supposed to do but we know this is something that is very hard to do at times. Jesus set an example for us of what love is and He commands us to follow the example. This is a sacrificial love, giving someone what they need, even if they don’t deserve it and even if it cost you something. Follow Jesus’ command.
10/25/2022
Matthew 19:4-5 “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?
Sermon – Marriage, Divorce and Singleness – Matthew 19:1-12
10/24/2022
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
As a coach I often get frustrated with kids when they don’t work up to their full potential or sometimes even close to it. I see how good they could be and how much they could do if they worked at it properly. As I was thinking about that today I wondered how often the Lord thinks that of me! I am doing the best I can to live the life he wants me to live? Really makes me think!
10/21/2022
Colossians 3:8 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.
I challenge you today to look at this list with an honest heart and identify any of the things you struggle with. What is it that you need to get rid of in your life? Write it down, put it where you see it throughout your day and when you are reminded of it pray that God will remove it from your life. Change starts small but can have a huge impact on you and others around you.
10/20/2022
Colossians 1:27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
I love the phrase, “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” First, we have to know that hope in this case isn’t wishing that something will happen but a promised anticipation. It isn’t the hope kids have at Christmas, “I hope I get a new bike.” It is the assurance knowing what will happen when we spend eternity with Jesus. If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior than you have the promise of eternity. Think about that each day and it will start to change your perspective on things.
10/19/2022
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
During these difficult times we need to be standing strong in Christ and not let fear control us. We still need to be wise and follow the guidelines that are given to us but we should be showing others the faith and strength we have because of our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ!
10/18/2022
Matthew 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Sermon – Forgiveness (Part 2) – Matthew 18:23-35
10/17/2022
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
As I pray for our country and the division it has right now, I wish that people would make the right choice when it comes to the words we say. What we say can either help create unity or it can divide people. The problem is that unity needs to happen in Jesus Christ and many don’t want that but they want to use God when it makes them look good. I saw a senator a while back say that he was praying for the family of someone and then go on a rant about how terrible the other party was. We throw around God so we look good but does God really have a place in our lives? Are we moved by the spirit to build one another up or to tear each other down?
10/13/2022
Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Man talk about a verse that is hard to live out! Some people are hard to bear but we are commanded to do it and not only that but forgive them! It is time extend forgiveness to someone else and use it as a springboard to talk about the forgiveness God gave us and why He sent His Son!
Sermon – Forgiveness (Part 1) – Matthew 18:21-22
10/12/2022
Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Sermon – Forgiveness (Part 1) – Matthew 18:21-22
10/11/2022
Romans 8:31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
As children of God, we need to remember this verse. There is nothing this world can do to that can touch our salvation in Christ. We may go through unimaginable trials and struggles but no matter what we are God’s.
10/7/2022
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
The moment you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior you are Saved. That isn’t the end though. We are to continue to grow in Christ and to become more Christlike until Jesus comes back again to take us home. Are you a more mature Christian today than you were a year ago? How about a month or week? Grow to be more like Christ today!
10/6/2022
Philippians 1:12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.
It is important to note, when you read this verse, that Paul was under house arrest. It didn’t matter the place or the circumstance Paul was going to share the gospel with whomever He could. Here it was the guards who were tasked with watching him. What about you? Do you use any and every opportunity to share the gospel with people you come into contact? You are where you are because God has place you there and has a plan and a purpose for you and that it to glorify Him!
10/5/2022
Matthew 18:15 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over
Notice is says “just between the two of you.” Wow, this goes against what usually happens. Even Christians, when someone does wrong, go and tell everyone. Instead we need to go to that person and help lead them to repentance and restoration.
10/4/2022
Galatians 6:1 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
10/3/2022
Ephesians 4:26-27 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold.
It isn’t a sin to be angry but if we aren’t careful our anger can cause us to sin. We need to get rid of the anger in our life every day. Figure out how to let it go or how to deal with he situation that has you angry so that it doesn’t grow and fester inside. Like the scripture says, allowing the anger to stick around is wha the devil wants you to do!
9/30/2022
James 4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
Make sure we are Today Christians and not putting things off until tomorrow! We aren’t promised tomorrow. We have the breath we breathe right now, make sure we are using it to glorify God and point others to Him.
9/29/2022
Ephesians 2:8-9 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.
There is one way and one way only to be saved and that is by accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Believe He is who the Bible says He is and that He did what the Bible says He did. When you acknowledge you are a sinner and that there is nothing you can do about it and believe on Him you are changed! It is all possible by His work on the cross! You can’t be saved by going to church or being “good.” Only by Grace through Faith!
9/28/2022
Hebrews 13:14 For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.
We spend so much time, energy and money on making our homes nice but do we put the same kind of time, energy and money with our eternal home in mind? Do we work to point as many people as possible to Christ so they have a home in Heaven also?
9/27/2022
Psalm 103:10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.
I am so thankful for the truth of this verse! I thank the Lord for his Mercy!
Sermon – One – Matthew 18:10-14
9/26/2022
1 John 4:4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
I love the line, the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. There is a constant battle going on between good and evil, between God and Satan. Scripture tells us though who is stronger and who wins. If we are a Christians we have the power to overcome the evil around us. Stop making excuses today and claim the victory you have in Jesus.
9/22/2022
Galatians 1:10 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
What is your focus? Is it on making people happy and doing what they want you to do or is it doing the will of God in your life? You can’t do both, you have to choose. Who will you spend your day trying to please? Please God and you will win the approval of those who truly matter in your life.
9/21/2022
Romans 14:13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.
Make up your mind, decide and stick to it. I love that phrase but what is important is what we make up our mind to do and that is to not be a stumbling block to our brothers and sisters in Christ. We can’t let the sin that we wrestle with cause someone else to fall. The best way to not do that is to repent and turn away from the sin in our life.
9/20/2022
Matthew 18:6 “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.
Sermon – Don’t & Don’t – Matthew 18:6-9
9/19/2022
Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Sometimes we go through the hardest things in life. We can start to feel overwhelmed, like the entire world is coming down on us. Remember today, no matter what you are going through you are not alone. God is with you! He will sustain you and strengthen you!
9/16/2022
Philippians 2:8-9 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,
Jesus is the ultimate example of what humility looks like. He was willing to go to the cross and take the penalty of sin for all so that we can have the opportunity to be saved.
Sermon – Little Children – Matthew 18:2-3
9/14/2022
Matthew 18:2-3 He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. 3 And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Sermon – Little Children – Matthew 18:2-3
9/13/2022
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Are you going through a difficult time? I you struggling with things in your life? Remember no matter what you are going through you always have a reason to rejoice. Jesus loved you so much He was willing to come and not only die but to take the wrath of God upon himself for the penalty of all sins! If you have accepted Him as your Lord and Savior there is reason to rejoice!
9/12/2011
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed
We are, but not. We can focus on the are or the but not. Life is hard and it is easy to get caught up in the we ares. It is what we see when we take our eyes of Jesus and forget His promises to us. When we see life through the lens of Jesus and His word we start to see the but nots. Today you can choose what you focus on, will it be the we ares or the but nots?
9/9/2022
Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
We always talk about the first part of this verse but reading it today the last part stood out to me. Jesus tells us that every day will have trouble. Things aren’t always going to go the way we think they should. Things aren’t always going to be easy. That is part of life and that is ok. Face the troubles you have today knowing God is with you and leave tomorrows troubles for tomorrow, they will come on their own, No use worrying about them now, enjoy the good of the day and the blessing of God.
9/8/2022
2 Corinthians 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort
God is a God of compassion and Comfort. Compassion can also be defined as mercy. I thank God today for His mercy, that he spares me the punishment I deserve for my sin because Jesus paid the penalty for my sin and yours. I also thank God for the comfort He gives us when we go through times of trials and loss.
9/7/2022
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Sermon – Tax Time – Matthew 17:24-27
9/6/2022
1 Corinthians 15:3-4 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,
It seems like we only talk about what Jesus did on the cross and His resurrection around Easter. Paul tells us that this is the most important thing that we can share with others! When is the last time you told someone about Jesus and what He did for them? We get so busy doing Church but we have to remember what our number one priority is, to share the gospel!
9/2/2022
Luke 9:59 He said to another man, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.”
Two things stand out to me in this verse. The first are Jesus’ words, “follow me.” Those words he spoke thousands of years ago echo today through His word and are still calling everyone to follow Him. Have you made the decision to follow Jesus or are you like the man who replies to him, full of excuses. One day excuses will be no more and will be too late. Follow Jesus today!
9/1/2022
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
The greatest is love! As Christians the biggest part of our life should be love. The way we love others. Scripture tells us that God is love and so when we love others we allow them to see God. Have a loving heart today and every day! Give people what they need, even if they don’t deserve it and even if it comes at a great personal cost.
8/31/2022
James 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Sermon – Effective Faith – Matthew 17:14-23
8/29/2022
John 8:58 “Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!”
“I AM” – Jesus is the same I am who revealed himself to Moses in the burning bush. God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” He is always present and is the same yesterday, today and forever!
8/26/2022
Psalm 19:14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
A Simple question today: Do the things you say and think please God?
8/25/2022
1 Corinthians 15:55-57 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
This is a passage that I often read when I do graveside services. Even thought we face a physical death if we are saved we do not face a spiritual death, eternal separation from God. Because of Jesus’ work on the cross we can be victorious over the power of death. Talk about something to rejoice in today! Thank you God for sending your Son and thank you Jesus for the work that was done at Calvary for us!
8/24/2022
Matthew 9:37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
We work tirelessly at our job and strive to climb the ladder and make more money. How hard to we strive to work for God? We put so much effort into things that are important to us but what is more important than seeing a lost person save?
10/18/2021
John 1:10-12 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God
Sermon – Confusing? Not Really
8/22/2022
I Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
The cross either mean nothing to you or it means so much to you. If you are saved you understand what Jesus did on the cross and you know what that means for eternity. If the cross has no meaning at all to you then you will not understand the power of God that was displayed on the cross and through Jesus resurrection. Those who think what Jesus did on the cross is ridiculous are fools and will spend eternity separated from God.
8/19/2022
John 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
In this verse John is talking about being set free from the chains of sin. Remember Christians after you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior sin no longer has power over you. You don’t have to let sin run your life, you have the power to overcome it.
8/18/2022
John 8:29 The one who sent me is with me; He has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases Him.”
Jesus is speaking about His Father here, God sent Him, is with Him and is who Jesus pleases in everything He does. As Christians we should strive to live the final phrase of this verse, “I always do what pleases Him.” Our goal daily should be to do what pleases God. To often we are all about pleasing others, or ourselves when what really matters is that our actions please to very one who gave us life.
8/17/2022
John 8:28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.
In this scripture Jesus is talking about when He will be crucified. Remember the centurion soldier saying “Surely this man is the son of God.” I read this passage and I think about the words used, lifted up, will know, I am he. Christians when we Lift Up Jesus, who He is and what He has done for us then they will know that He is. That He is the way the truth and the life, the only hope we all have!
8/16/2022
Matthew 17:5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
Sermon – A Preview – Matthew 17:1-8
8/8/2022
Revelations 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
A reminder today that this world isn’t our home and we have something so amazing and unimaginable to look forward to if we are saved. Rejoice toady and be thankful that the day is coming when when evil will be conquered.
8/3/2022
Matthew 16:23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”
So often we see things the way we want to when we don’t realize that God has bigger and better plans in store for us.
Sermon – Following Isn’t Easy – Matthew 16:21-28
8/2/2022
Matthew 16:21 From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
Sermon – Following Isn’t Easy – Matthew 16:21-28
8/1/2022
Matthew 16:18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades] will not overcome it.
Sermon – Who Do You Say? Then Say – Matthew 16:13-20
7/19/2022
Matthew 16:15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Sermon – Who Do You Say? Then Say – Matthew 16:13-20
7/18/2022
2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
We live in a world that is hard to have peace in. There are so many things going on and so many unknown in our lives. If we know Him we can know peace. We can rest knowing that he has our life in His hands. I struggle with having peace but when I recognize it I try to turn whatever is bothering me over to God and let Him carry the burden for me. My trust is in Him not in my own strength or abilities.
6/27/2022
Psalm 141:3 Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.
This is a verse that I think many, including myself, need to quote every morning. I need to ask God to guard my mouth and the words that come out of it. Too often I speak when I should listen and too often I say things that are better left unsaid. Not often enough do I speak the things of the Lord to those who need to hear it. Lord I pray today that you will filter the things that leave my mouth. May they be encouraging, uplifting and point others to you!
6/22/2022
2 Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
Sermon – Pay Attention – Matthew 15:29-16:12
6/21/2022
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
Sermon – Faith & Everyone – Matthew 15:21-28
6/14/2022
Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.”And her daughter was healed at that moment.
Sermon – Faith & Everyone – Matthew 15:21-28
6/13/2022
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
One of my favorite verse that is misquoted so often. People often wonder the difference between pride and haughty. Pride is about you, thinking you are all that and a bag of chips, while haughty is thinking you are better than others. Both of this go against what Christ has called us to be and based on this verse can lead to some pretty major problems. We also see it play out in our lives and the lives of people in scripture.
6/9/2022
Matthew 15:10-11 Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen and understand. What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.”
6/8/2022
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
6/7/2022
Matthew 6:19-20 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
What is your focus on? Is it on stuff that is considered important here on Earth or is it on eternal investments. Ask yourself if the things you leave behind are greater than the people you take with you to eternity in Heaven?
6/1/2022
Proverbs 23:12 Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge
One thing I know for sure is that I don’t know everything, in fact there is a LOT of things I don’t know. Spiritually speaking we can learn so much if we will listen to others and pick up some of the knowledge the have learned the hard way. The sad news is sometimes we are like teenagers and even when we hear it we don’t listen, we have to experience it ourselves to believe it. Seek out Godly wisdom from others and grow.
5/31/2022
Matthew 14:27-29 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.
Sermon – Get Out! – Matthew 14:22-36
5/30/2022
1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
Today I am going to State Track and Field to watch our High School students compete. This verse came to my mind. I am so proud of these kids and all the hard work they have put in to reach this achievement. Personally, I wonder what would my life be like if I trained and ran my spiritual race with the kind of dedication we put into sports and being the best we can be at it. Yes we should strive to be the best at whatever we do but how much more important that we strive to be the best Christian we can be and run our spiritual race with real dedication and commitment.
5/27/2022
Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
If you are saved you have the power of the Holy Spirit! With Him comes the responsibility of of being God’s witness everywhere you go!
5/26/2022
Isaiah 5:20 Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.
I read this and I think about our society and how much our thinking of right and wrong does not line up with what the Bible tells us. As individuals and as a country we need to get back to what scripture tells us and know what is goo and what is evil.
5/25/2022
Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
We will face pain and suffering, difficulties and hardships while we are here on Earth. However, we know that what is waiting those who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior have a Heavenly Home waiting for us! This blip of eternity will be nothing like the time we spend with our Father.
5/23/2022
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
How much love do you have in your life, not counting your love for yourself! As Christians we are filled with the Holy Spirit and so we are filled with Love! The question is does that love pour out of us into those around us? Look for chances to love people today. Look to give them what they need, even if they don’t deserve it and even if it cost you something! By your love May God Be Glorified!
5/19/2022
1 Peter 5:8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Sometimes I forget how hard satan is working to attack and bring us down. We have to stay of clear mind and alert for the ways he is trying to destroy our lives and our witness.
5/18/2022
2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Pretty straight and clear verse. If you are saved you have all you need to live the way God wants you to. The question is, are you? Or are you living the life you want to? Grow in your knowledge of our Lord and Savior and living the way He wants you to becomes even more attainable!
5/17/2022
1 John 3:17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?
As Christians we should always be on the lookout for someone who may have a need that God has blessed us enough to to meet. I wonder how many times in the past year the Lord has put someone in my path that I had a need I could meet and I didn’t do it. Kind of hard to think about! I pray my heart and eyes are more open to this in blessing others!
6/12/2021
Acts 20:24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Every Christian has a task and we are told it in this verse, to tell others about the good new of God’s grace! It is our responsibility to let other people know what God has done for us. When something good happens in our life we are quick to tell other people even a long time after it happens. Why is it not the same with the most important thing that has happened to us, our salvation. Look for opportunities today to tell someone about what God has done for you and then jump at the chance!
5/13/2022
Psalm 37:8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret–it leads only to evil
Take some time and think about when you have let anger control you and how that turned out. I am guessing those times of anger are like mine and usually lead to something it shouldn’t have. We have to control our temper and not let Satan use anger to hurt our testimony.
5/12/2022
Jeremiah 32:17 “Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.
Nothing is too hard for our God. A very simple statement but one that we don’t live like it is true. I am not saying that God will always do the hard things in our life that we want Him to, sometimes they aren’t part of His plan. I can tell you this though, sometimes His plans involves things that we can’t even imagine being done, because there is nothing He can’t do. I pray you find hope in this verse today!
Sermon – Obstacles or Opportunities – Matthew 14:13-21
5/10/2022
Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
Sermon – Obstacles or Opportunities – Matthew 14:13-21
5/9/2022
Psalm 56:11 In God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me?
Sermon – Just Like John – Matthew 14:1-12
5/5/2022
Philippians 2:14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing,
Wow, talk about a short but to the point verse. Paul is really good at closing loop-holes. Everything means, everything. No matter what you are doing, whether you like it or not, you shouldn’t grumble or argue. Man how I wish Christians today would live this verse out. I am guilty too! Just think the kind of impact it would have on our world if Christians would stop grumbling and start rejoicing plus stop arguing and start offering grace. See if you can start by going an entire day! Then keep it going!
5/4/2022
Ephesians 5:20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We often give thanks to God for answered prayer and the good things that happen in our life. This verse challenges us to give thanks for EVERYTHING. We should give thanks to God even when things don’t go the way we hoped it would or when we face some major disappointment or setback. We may not see it now or understand the why of Him allowing it to happen but that ok because His ways are higher than our ways!
5/3/2022
Colossians 2:6-7 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Being a Christian isn’t about saying a prayer and then going on with your life like nothing happened. We are to be rooted in Christ, we are to grow stronger in our faith and we should be letting our thankfulness touch the people around us. What are you going to do today to strengthen your personal relationship with Christ?
4/29/2022
Hebrews 13:5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Man we are told to be content with what we have but that can be so hard. It seems like we are always wanting more and more no matter how much God blesses us. We need to remember that if we are saved we have the most important thing there is and that is a personal relationship with Jesus. Nothing can top that so lets try to be content knowing we always have that no matter what!
4/28/2022
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”
What a wonderful verse for us to read and remember that no matter what happens the Word of God will always be there for us. It is a love letter written from God to us to remind us how loved we are and how special we are to Him!
4/27/2022
John 1:10-12 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God
Sermon – Going Home – Matthew 13:52-58
4/25/2022
Romans 1:25 They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.
So many people today believe the devil’s lies. They reject the truth of God in exchange for the worlds beliefs and empty promises. Life to them is about the stuff they can gather and get and not about a relationship with the one who created everything there is. I pray today for those who don’t know Christ that they will see, understand and accept the truth!
4/21/2022
1 Corinthians 2:9 However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him
When I read this verse I think about Heaven and how amazing it must be. There are so many books written about what it will be like and scripture gives us some clues but when it comes down to it our minds can’t even begin to comprehend what God has created for us. Pretty awesome to think about that!
4/20/2022
Hebrews 2:14-15 Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.
4/19/2022
Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
I am so thankful that Jesus was willing to go to the cross for everyone. The pain that he suffered and endured is unimaginable. The agony of separation from His Father and having the penalty of our sins placed on Him is beyond words. Remember today how much Jesus loves you and wants to save you, He proved it in His actions leading up to and at Calvary.
4/15/2022
Luke 22:41-42 He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
This is such a difficult prayer to pray. It was difficult for Jesus because He know what His Father’s will was. He knew what was ahead. For me, and I would guess for others, this is a difficult prayer because we don’t know what is ahead. God doesn’t tell us what following Him will lead to. Scripture tells us there will be difficulties and it will be challenging but it also tells us that His ways are higher then are ways and that His plans are for our good. Whose plan will you follow today, yours or Gods?
4/14/2022
1 Peter 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Make sure today, and every day you thank God for sending His son to die for us! As Christians we seem to forget the amazing love He has for us and poured our on us by allowing us a way to avoid the punishment for our sin. Thank you God, Thank you Jesus for the promise of salvation!
4/13/2022
John 13:34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
This is what it is all about. We are to live a life of love. Giving others what they need even if they don’t deserve it and even if it cost us something. That is the way Jesus loved us! He gave us what we needed, forgiveness for our sins. We definitely didn’t deserve it and we remember this week what it cost Him!
4/12/2022
Matthew 21:9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
Sermon – Palm Sunday – Matthew 21:1-11
4/11/2022
Romans 5:3 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance (patience);
Verses like these that talk about rejoicing and finding glory in sufferings are hard to understand and even harder to live out but as Christians we should have a different perspective on the things that happen in our life. Patience is the start of our maturity. Turn to Romans 5 and read what comes in the following verses.
4/8/2022
2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
When I read this verse there are three things that stick out to me. First, is the last part of the verse, all glory in this life should go to Jesus and not ourselves. He deserves it all because of the sacrifice He made for all. Working backwards we see that we are to grow in our knowledge of Jesus. The more we know about Jesus the more intimate our relationship with Him will be and the more we can live like Him. We are also told to grow in the grace of Jesus. When I think of that I think about understanding the grace of God and allowing that to change us to sin less and less as we grow in Christ.
4/7/2022
2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
The word of God is such a wonderful thing! To know we hold His words when we hold a Bible is just amazing! I pray that you spend time studying it. I pray you let it teach you how to live, let it be the blueprint for your life! Let it point out when you make mistakes and show you have those mistakes can be corrected! Most importantly may it help you live a life that gives God the glory!
4/6/2022
Matthew 13:49-50 This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Sermon – Hell – Matthew 13:47-52
4/5/2022
2 Corinthians 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
We can either focus on the circumstances we are in at the time or we can look at the possible ways that God may be using the circumstances we are in for His glory and to impact others for eternity! It isn’t easy but it is what we are told to do! What are your eyes foxed on today?
4/4/2022
Psalm 62:7 In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
This verse pretty much sums it up! God is my all and my everything. Without Him I am nothing and I have nothing. With Him I am a saved child of God who has hope!
3/31/2022
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Sometimes life doesn’t go as we think or hope it will. When it doesn’t we don’t have to lose heart God is still on the thrown and still in control. Find peace in the one true place it is available in your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
3/30/2022
Matthew 13:31-32 He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed,which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.”
Sermon – Tiny Seed and Yeast – Matthew 13:31-35
3/29/2022
Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
There is a progression here if you look at the verse backwards. First we trust in God which leads to steadfast or committed mind. When we are committed to God and His will for our life we find peace even when things may not go the way we want them to because we know that His plans are better than ours. Trust in God today, stand committed to His will and find a peace few know!
3/28/2022
Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
As Christians we sometimes ask, “What does God want me to do.” This verse tells us what God wants from us, live justly, love mercy, be humble. These defiantly go against the worlds desire to live as you want, treat others how they treat you, you are first and most important. Christians are called to live radically different. Will you be different today?
3/25/2022
Proverbs 29:11 Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.
Are you a fool or are you wise? When you are dealing with anger how do you handle it? I am guessing today or in the near future you will have some anger, be wise. Don’t let them anger come flying out.
3/24/2022
Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
I am guessing you know someone who is going through a difficult time. Look around your group of friends or work you will probably find someone going through a struggle. When you identify that person first and foremost pray for them. Then reach out to them and encourage them but also meet them where they are and do whatever you can walk through this struggle with them. Whose burden can you carry today?
3/23/2022
Matthew 13:41-43 The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.
We are all in one of these two groups. There is no more important decision you make in your life than to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
3/21/2022
Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Seems like there are times in our lives were nothing seems to bother us then there are times when everything seems to make us anxious. I wonder how close we are to God in our daily walk during each of those times? If we are spending time in His word and spending time with Him in prayer it changes the view we have of the things we go through. Make time with Jesus a priority in your life today and everyday!
3/11/2022
Psalm 119:10-11 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Three things we as Christians need to do….Hide, Don’t Stray and Seek. Kind of sounds like a game we played when we were young. This is more serious than a game though. As Christians we need to be memorizing God’s word, hiding it our hearts so it is in our mind, allowing it to guide us. We need to not stray from what we know is right even when it is difficult. One of my favorite quotes is “Doing the right thing is usually the hardest thing to do.” Lastly we need to seek Christ daily. Seek to know Him more, seek to become like Him more. Focus on those three things today and every day!
3/9/2022
Romans 10:9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
I think sometimes we forget the middle part of this verse. We think just saying some words is enough but the question is do we really believe those words we are saying. Is there a true transformation that takes place. Scripture tells us we are a new creation when we are saved.
3/7/2022
1 John 4:9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.
Remember today you are loved! God loved you more than you can imagine. He demonstrated how much He loves us by sending Jesus, His son, to die for us and pay the penalty for our sins. By acknowledging who Jesus is and believing in what He did when He died on the cross and rose again we can choose to accept Him as our Lord and Savior! When we make that decision we are promised eternal life in Heaven. Sounds like you are loved a lot!
3/4/2022
Psalm 40:2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
I love the visual of this picture that is being described. I thank Jesus that I am no longer entrapped in my sinful nature. I thank Jesus that I will no longer face judgement for my sins. Because of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ I am set free and unbound so that I can serve Him in whatever way he leads me.
3/3/2022
Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
Have you every seen what someone else has and then been discontented or resentful? If you have then you know what envy is. This verse make it pretty clear it is not healthy for us. Be at peace with what you have and where you are. God has blessed you in different ways and you should focus on that instead of wishing you had what others have.
3/2/2022
Matthew 12:50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.
Our physical family on Earth is of great importance and we have a responsibility to them, scripture makes this clear. However, if you are saved you are part of a bigger family, the family of God. There is a great responsibility that comes with being a part of that family.
3/1/2022
Luke 11:27-28 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.” He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
This is a pretty cool verse. When you think about it Mary was really blessed to get to be the earthly mother of Jesus. The things is when Jesus hears this He says that if you are a follower of God you are blessed more than Mary! Our earthly families are important and we have a responsibility to them but Jesus and obeying God should still be number one in our lives.
Sermon – Faith & Family – Matthew 12:46-50
2/28/2022
Romans 1:12 When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.
The people we surround ourselves with is so important. They can either build us up in Christ and encourage us in our walk or they can tear us down and pull us away from Christ. Which are the people you surround yourself with? I am so thankful for those close to me that God has blessed me with during my life. Thank you for encouraging me and lifting me up in Christ.
1/24/2022
1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
I love the picture of not letting anything move you. This world and satan try to push and pull us in so many directions that lead us away from how Christ wants us to live. We have to commit fully to His will and His way and know that through our work He will be glorified and lives will be changed for eternity!
2/23/2022
1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
This verse says a lot. The problem is we often forget the last part. Sometimes we aren’t very gentle and respect when we are talking to people about our Lord and Savior. Sometimes we are judgmental or acting holier than though when we share the promises we have in Christ. Are you ready if someone asks you about your hope today?
2/22/2022
Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.
We are told twice to wait for the Lord so it must be pretty important for us to do it! Boy do I struggle with it though! Patience is not easy! When we wait on the Lord though it is always worth it! When we don’t we usually end up regretting it! I pray your day is filled with patience and you know God is working in your life even if it may not feel like it!
2/16/2022
Romans 14:19 So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.
Sadly what this verse tells us to do isn’t always how things going in the church. When I refer to “the Church” I don’t just mean the place you go on Sunday. I mean the entire body of born again believers. It is time we start being there for one another, encouraging and strengthening one another. Inside and outside the walls of your local church.
2/15/2022
Matthew 7:12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
As a first year principal I wish that people would listen to this verse and do what it says. By far, the problems I deal with are how people treat one another. One problem is, it isn’t just the kids either. Even adults treat the kids or other adults in ways they themselves would definitely would not want to be treated. The Golden Rule is pretty lacking in Gold these days.
2/14/2022
Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
Instruction, teaching and counseling our all ours if we will reach out to God. Sometimes in life we have decisions that are hard and we don’t know what we should do. This verse reassures us that our God cares about us and our decisions and is willing and able to help us make them.
2/11/2022
Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
We always feel like the things we do are little and don’t mean a lot. This verse tells us otherwise. This verse tells us that when we help other people we are doing it for God. You don’t have to start a big ministry or travel to some far country to do the work of Christ. Just start loving and meeting the need of the people around you.
2/10/2022
1 Timothy 6:6-7 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.
It is very easy to struggle with not being content. To often we do not have a heart of gratitude for the way our life is and are always looking for more and better. I pray today you are able to be content with the blessing God has given you.
2/9/2022
Matthew 12:34-35 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.
Your words reveal what your hear is full of. Your beliefs, your character, your true self flow out of your mouth and the things that you say to other people. What would someone who reads the words you say everyday in a book learn about the main character? How would they describe you based on the things you say?
Sermon – Matthew 12:31-37 – Words are Windows
2/8/2022
James 3:11-12 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Sermon – Matthew 12:31-37 – Words are Windows
2/7/2022
Isaiah 1:18 “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.
This week we had a snow day and a two hour delay in our start time. With the snow on the ground I am reminded of this verse and the power of it. I love the first part that often isn’t mentions…let us settle this matter…If you have never asked Jesus to save you and forgive you for your sins you need to today! You need to settle this one thing because it is the most important thing!
2/4/2022
Ecclesiastes 3:12 I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.
This is a great reminder today. Focus on two things, first being happy. I know some may be going through difficult times but if we think about it I am sure we can come up with reasons to be happy. The second part takes a little more work but is really important and worth it, do good! Look for ways today that you can bless someone else, this will defiantly make you happy and someone else as well!
2/3/2022
Jeremiah 18:4-6 But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another
pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. Then the word of the Lord came to me. He said, “Can I not do with you, Israel, as this potter does?” declares the Lord. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel.
I love the picture of this verse. We are all clay in God’s hand. He is able to shape us the way that He wants. The way he has made you to look, the talents and abilities you have. You are the way you are because of Christ. When you look in the mirror today remember you are looking at God’s handiwork created to do good works!
2/1/2022
Leviticus 19:18 Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.
It seems like often times we have someone that we hold a grudge with for a long long time. They did something to us and we just won’t let it go and move on. I understand it may be painful and hurtful but holding on to the desire for revenge just eats away at us. It is time to let that burden down and to move forward in love.
1/31/2022
Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
It seems like to often our focus is on how can I get more stuff. We want and we “need” and we do whatever we have to get things that we truly don’t need. Is our focus on the things of this world or on the invest of eternity?
1/27/2022
Romans 8:10 But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness.
A phrase I heard a long time ago has stuck with me, the moment you start living, you start dying. Our bodies are on a collision course with death because of sin. That may scare some people but for those who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior know that the death of this body is not the end. We have eternal life! Rejoice in the life you have today!
1/21/2022
Hebrews 11:38 the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground.
This verse is in the chapter that is often referred to as the Hall of Faith. People whose faith was just so awesome. I challenge you to read this chapter today. The phrase, “The world was not worthy of them” really shook me when my wife and I were reading this the other day. I hope one day to hear, well done my good and faithful servant but can you imagine it also being spoke by God that the world was not worthy of you. That is a deep and steadfast faith!
1/20/2022
1 Peter 4:2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.
What will be the driving force in your life? Will it be the things God wants you to do or will it be the pursuit of sin and earthly desires? Every day we make a choice, every hour, ever minute. What is more important and what will we choose to chase after.
1/19/2022
Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
I love this verse. It reminds us that we can either trust in the things of this world or we can trust in the maker of the world. Choose today who you will trust and live for!
1/18/2022
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”
When you you are growing in Christ the way that we should, your life should be more about Christ and less about you. What is the driving force in your life? Who are you trying to please in your life? Who are you wanting to receive praise in your life? If Jesus isn’t the answer to each of these questions then you are increasing and He is decreasing.
1/14/2022
1 Peter 4:9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
When is the last time you were hospitable to someone? When did you go out of your way to help someone you didn’t know? As Christians we should be willing to reach out and help people we don’t know. We should be willing, in faith, to step out and meet a need they have in their life. When we do it may we do it to glorify our Father in Heaven and to point them to Him.
1/13/2022
Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
We are shaped by our thoughts. Our thought will be come our reality. What is it that your mind things about? Where do your thoughts go when you aren’t busy thinking about work or family? Remember today that your mind is a powerful thing and we must control it. Think of things you want to become today, for me it is bold and courageous for Christ.
1/12/2022
Psalms 103:12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
Don’t let the sin of your past, the mistakes you have made hold you back from doing the things the Holy Spirit is leading you to do. They are gone, remembered no more and God wants to use you to do great things for Him now!
1/11/2022
Job 42:2 “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
My life is a living example of this verse. When I was 16 I felt the calling of the Lord to be a Pastor. For years I justified it away, saying I can reach people for Christ as a teacher and coach. Through a series of events of God’s hand at work in my life I am now a Pastor. The plans and purpose of God will prevail. IF you feel God calling you, trust Him and follow the call He has for your life.
1/10/2022
Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
There are many things that happen in our lives that cause us to be afraid, even though we are told to fear not. When we let the fear come in because we aren’t trusting God in the first place we need to place our trust in Him to help us out of the fear.
1/7/2022
Jeremiah 17:7 “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.
I ask myself this morning, if I trust in the Lord and put all confidence in Him? Honestly, there are times I do and there are times I don’t. There are times I trust in myself and my own ways. Let me just tell you, trusting in Him works out so much better in the end! Place your trust in God today and be confident that in Loves you and will keep His promises.
1/6/2022
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
What will lead and direct you as you go through this new year? I pray that it will be the Word of God. Spend time each day in God’s Word! Allow it to be the compass you follow as you move through 2022!
1/3/2022
Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us
God with us. We read that verse at Christmas time but do we really think about the awesomeness of God as man. Do we really understand the step Jesus took to be a savior for us. Then I ask myself, do I remember that God the Holy Spirit is with me all the time. I never have to go looking for Him, I never have to wonder if He has left me because He is always with us.
12/21/2021c
Proverbs 24:16 for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes.
I love the encouragement this verse gives. We all get knocked down by this life and our trials and troubles. However, we don’t have to stay down. We can always get back up and keep going, knowing that our Lord and Savior is with us. Some of you may feel like life has you down today, just remember you don’t have to stay there! Find hope today in Jesus!
12/17/2021
Romans 5:6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
When Christmas comes it always makes me look ahead to the cross and Easter. Jesus came as a baby born in a stable and laid in a manager because He knew that we needed a Savior. I thank the Lord for His love for everyone and willingness to pay the price for our sins!
12/16/2021
Psalm 96:1 Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.
There is something I loved about Christmas Hymns. When I sing them and really listen to the words it sometimes brings tears to my eyes. To think about the way and the reason Jesus came just moves me. I am so thankful the Lord has given me a new song, a song of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love!
12/14/2021
Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
Life is hard and we face many difficulties and challenges but we can rest assured that Christ is always with us and will never leave us! He will empower us through the Holy Spirit to stand strong in Him and his mighty power and love!
12/13/2021
Romans 10:9 If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
It is hard to believe but this verse is what is separating people from eternal life and eternity in hell. I pray that if God has been working on your heart that today you will respond, pray repent, believe and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
12/10/2021
John 14:1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.
So many people struggle with a troubled heart. Stress, anxiety and fear creep into our lives. This verse reminds us that we don’t have to let that happen. Jesus spoke these words when He was preparing to leave his disciples. Jesus also said that He must leave so the Advocate can come, the Holy Spirit. No matter what you face to day, if you are saved, remember you have The Holy Spirit with you! Do not let your heart be troubled today!
12/8/2021
Ephesians 1:7-8 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8 that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding
Take time today to think about and praise God for the fact that our forgiveness and salvation is not reliant on you and I doing good deeds or keeping a law! Thank him for paying the penalty that we owed but that we could never pay!
12/7/2021
1 Peter 4:12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
The walk of a Christian is often a difficult one. Of course we are the ones who can handle it because we know that we are not going through it alone. With know that God is with us and we know that we have something to look forward to that nothing in this world can take away!
12/6/2020
Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
What a great prayer for each of us to meaningfully pray. Are there places in our lives where we are letting work and anxiety rule? Are there things we are doing that go against what God wants us to do? If there is we need to acknowledge them and give them to God so we can follow Him the way we should be! What any our life is effecting your relationship with Christ?
12/2/2021
1 Thessalonians 5:15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
To often we want to get even with someone who has wronged us but that isn’t our place, that is God’s. We need to be looking for ways that we can reach out and help others, even those who have caused us pain. Sounds simple when you type or read it but it is really hard to do. Pray the Holy Spirit will give you the strength to do good!
12/1/2021
Revelations 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the LORD God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
11/30/2021
Philippians 1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you.
I hope that those who read this today, who I know, understand that I feel this way about you. So many people in my life have touched me in amazing ways and have shared in the joys of my life and the trials. I truly thank God that He put each and every one of you in my life. You are a character in the story of my life and I wouldn’t want it to not include you. Thank you for being you and for being a part of my life! I truly thank God for you!
11/23/2021
Hebrews 12:2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
I think we often have a hard time grasping what Jesus really did for us, the love and sacrifice. Really understanding would cause us to be in ah and really focus on Him more in our daily life. Remember today how much Jesus loves you and the suffering, pain and death He voluntarily endured for you.
11/19/2021
Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
Do you have your running shoes on today? Are you ready for the long run ahead of you? It is a lot easier to run when you don’t have a bunch of stuff wrapped on to you slowing you down! Get rid of the junk of life and sin that is keeping you from running the way God wants you to and let others see Christ in you today.
11/18/2021
Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Two things I think about when I read this verse. Of course the obvious that there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God which is so wonderful to know. However, make sure you read that last part, the Love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Is Jesus the Lord of your life? Have you give your life to Him completely? If you haven’t then you are separated from God because you are not in Jesus!
11/17/2021
Genesis 50:20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
The story of Joseph reminds us that even though we may be going through a difficult time and we may be feeling like we have setback after setback God may be setting us up for something great that He has prepared for us! Through all the hard times Joseph remained faithful to God and God was able to use Him in amazing ways! Remain faithful to God no matter what you may be going through!
11/16/2021
Matthew 6:20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
What would happen if everything you had on this earth, all of your physical possessions, were gone in an instant. Sounds pretty harsh, but one day that is coming, when you die. All the “stuff” that you have won’t matter one bit then. What will matter is the decision you made regarding Jesus. Did you accept Him as your Lord and Savior, did you give your life to Him or did you reject Him. Do you spend all of your time storing up stuff here are Earth or are you busy doing the work of God and pointing others to the eternal home in Heaven with Jesus Christ?
11/15/2021
James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Spending time reading God’s word and listening to preaching is a great thing. However, it is worthless if we don’t let become a part of our life and who we are. Know God’s word and then live out God’s word!
11/12/2021
James 1:19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
Everyone always talks about this verse and seems to focus on being slow to anger but when is the last time you focused on being a good listener? We miss so much and I believe we miss opportunities to share Christ and help others because we don’t take the time to really listen to people, not just what they are saying but how they are saying it. Listen carefully today, God may have someone speaking to you that needs you to speak up for God or serve them in some way.
11/11/2021
John 15:5 “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.
This verse gives two options, we can either be bearing fruit or we can be doing nothing! Oh you can accomplish great things by the world standards, but if you are not in Christ and are not working for Christ the things that you do are nothing. What fruit have you produced in the last week? Month? Year? Are you too busy living for yourself and the world and not busy enough living for Christ?
11/10/2021
Leviticus 19:18 Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.
This verse is a double challenge! It is so hard to not hold a grudge and want to pay someone back when they hurt us. Scripture tells us that we should not look for ways to pay someone back when they hurt us in some way but that we should love them. Love someone that hurt us? Man that is really hard! When we live the way God calls us to live we give people what they need, which may be forgiveness, even if they don’t deserve it and even if it is hard for us!
11/4/2021
John 13:14-15 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
When is the last time you followed Jesus’ example and “washed someone’s feet.” No, not literally washed someone’s feet but served someone else. Jesus gives us an example of serving others and calls for us to do the same. Pray that God will give you the opportunity to serve someone today.
11/3/2021
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her
I read this verse and wonder if I really live this verse out the way I should. Men it is time we love our wives the way we are supposed to! The love that is talked about here is an agape love. It means that we give women what they need, even if they don’t deserve it and even if it comes at a cost to us. Really evaluate how you treat and love your wife and see if that is what you do. If you don’t it is time for a change. Women pray that your husband will live this verse out in their life.
11/1/201821
Romans 12:9 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,] says the Lord.
This verse is pretty straight forward and doesn’t need a lot of explaining. It does need a lot of applying though. To often we look at how we can get even, how we can pay someone back. That isn’t living the way God wants us to live. He wants us to love, yes even those we may want to get even with. He wants us to love them and leave the rest up to Him.
10/28/2021
Hebrews 13:16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Do good and share with others. Seems like a simple thing but even this verse tells us that if we are going to do that it is going to require sacrifices. It isn’t easy putting the needs of others ahead of your own but that is what we are called to do in scripture. Please God today, find ways to sacrifice by doing what is right for others.
10/27/2021
Matthew 10:7 As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’
Sermon – Theirs Ours – Matthew 10:1-15
10/25/2021
Proverbs 15:4 Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
A reminder this morning of how powerful our words are. The things we say can point someone to Christ or they can destroy and tear them down. What words will leave your mouth today?
10/21/2021
Psalm 27:23-24 The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
I am sure there are some who feel like they are stumbling today. We go through times when it seems like we are going to fall flat on your face. However, we need to remember that if we are saved the Lord has us in His hand. We can face the struggles knowing that He is going through it with us.
10/20/2021
Hebrews 12:14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
The first part of this verse really stood out to me today. I wish we would all read this verse and then strive to live it out daily. Have you done everything you can do to be at peace with the people in your life? That is what we are called to do. Christians, we need to step up and do what this verse says! Live at peace and that starts by loving one another with a sacrificial love like the love Jesus has for us!
10/19/2021
2 Corinthians 8:7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
I read this verse and I wonder if I excel in any of these. Excel is a strong word, to be exceptionally good. Am I exceptional in my faith, speech, knowledge, convictions, love and giving? I have many of those I can be more exceptional at. Strive to live this verse out today and everyday!
10/15/2021
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
People read this verse and so often it is taken to mean something that I don’t believe it does. People think that having life to it’s full means more money, more possessions, more stuff. I think of an abundance of love, joy, peace, giving, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. These are the Fruits of the Spirit. These are the abundance we have in our life when we give it to Jesus.
10/14/2021
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Pretty awesome think about how much Jesus loves us. He did exactly what we needed Him to do for us even though we didn’t deserve it. He showed us how much he truly loves us. My question is how do we demonstrate our love to others, even when they don’t deserve it?
10/13/2021
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Seems like people are always saying, “I wish I knew what it was that the Lord wanted me to do.” Well guess what, here it is. Three things we as Christians should be doing. Rejoice, Pray and Give Thanks. I read those three things and sadly I don’t do those things enough. We also need to pay attention to when we are supposed, always, continually, in all. That pretty much sums up the fact that we should be doing these things all the time. I hope your day is filled with rejoicing, praying and giving thanks!
10/12/2021
Colossians 2:23-24 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters
You hire a person and pay them $50,000 but do you get $50,000 of work out of them? It seems like too often people do work just to get it done instead of doing it to the best of their ability and to the glory of God. Whatever your job is, today do it like the Lord is right next to you watching because He is.
10/8/2021
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”
Yesterday when I was turning into my driveway I noticed the leaves were starting to fall from one of my trees. The flowers my wife water will son be gone. We won’t be mowing are yards much longer. All of this because winter is on it’s way. Things change but the word of God never changes! It stands forever and will always be. That is pretty amazing to think about and very encouraging when you think about the promises His word contain for us.
10/7/2021
1 Thessalonians 5:15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
Man how I wish we would live this verse out. So many people are all about getting payback when someone does them wrong instead of being merciful. Do what is good for everyone else! What would our society look like if all Christians did that? I would love to see it!
10/6/2021
Matthew 9:22 Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment.
How Do You Approach Jesus? – Matthew 9:18-26
10/4/2021
Psalm 133:1 How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!
If you have two boys, especially teenagers, you know they don’t live in harmony very often. They get on each others nerves a lot of the time. The problem is as brothers and sisters in Christ we don’t live in harmony the way we should. We let ourselves become separated over spats and disagreements. We let Satan weaken the work of Christ when we are not united.
10/1/2021
Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
I hope this verse can be of encouragement for you today. The time we spend on this earth is quickly passing, but if we are saved we can know that God has us. We have eternity to look forward to. Find strength and comfort in those words today and everyday.
9/30/2021
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
I love this verse because it reminds me of the amazing possibilities that lie within us by the power of the Holy Spirit. God wants to work through your life more than you can even imagine in ways that you can’t even begin to know. We need to stop putting limitations on what we can do because we are really limiting the power of the Holy Spirit.
9/29/2021
Isaiah 40:28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
This verse says a lot about our God. It reminds me when I am tired and worn out that my God never gets tired and never gets worn down. He is always there for me and I can trust in the very one who always is and always will be!
9/28/2021
Matthew 9:16-17 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. 17 Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”
Sermon – Incompatible – Matthew 9:14-17
9/27/2021
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Never stop praying.
Today is See You At The Pole Day. In just a but parents, teachers and students will stand outside of our school, around our flag pole, and pray for our school, our students and our country. My prayer is that my students truly know Jesus and not only are they willing to stand for Him today but they will stand for Him everyday, now and as they grow older.
9/22/2021
Proverbs 18:21 The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
The words that we say can either bring people closer to God which can give them life or they can drive them away from God which leads to eternal death and damnation. I wonder if we ever think about that fact and how powerful are words truly are. I also know that often times the things that we say get us into trouble. I remember in my dads Bible he had a quote in it that said, “A tongue six inches long can ruin a man six feet tall.” Think about that and what you say today.
9/21/2021
Matthew 9:12 On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.”
Sermon – Follow Me – Matthew 9:9-13
9/20/2021
Ecclesiastes 3:11 Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.
Look around you. Do you see the beauty that God has created, the flowers, the stars, the sunrises and sunsets? Now look in a mirror. There is beauty looking back at you. Not because of your physical features but because you are created in the image of God.
9/17/2021
Nehemiah 9:17 They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them,
Man if this doesn’t sound like our society today then I don’t know what is. We don’t listen to what God’s word says and we forget all He has done for us as individuals and for us as a country. We have rejected Him! Yet he is still forgiving, gracious, compassionate and loving. He is waiting for us to turn back to Him! He is waiting for you!
9/15/2021
2 Corinthians 8:7 Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us – I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving.
It is so important that Christians are givers. We should give to the work of God through our Church and ministries but we should also give to those who are in need. God has blessed us in ways that we so often overlook, so we should be looking for opportunities to bless others.
9/14/2021
Matthew 9:6 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.”
Sermon – Forgiven – Matthew 9:1-8
9/13/2021
2 Corinthians 4:16 That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.
The phrase, the minute we start living we start dying, is so true. We are all one day closer to death today because this earthly body is in the process of dying even as we live. That may sound pretty harsh but for Christians we know that every day we are one day closer to our glorified body and eternity in Heaven in the presence of God. I love the end of this verse because as I begin this day it tells me that yesterday is in the past and I have a new beginning today. By spending time in prayer with my Savior and reading His word I can feel the Holy Spirit renewing me and preparing me for today! May God Be Glorified!
9/10/2021
Proverbs 3:3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
Two things we need to hold on to, love and faithfulness. They are also two things that can be hard to find in our world today. It seems like for some people it is so hard for them to love others the way that God asks us to. It also seems that our word mean nothing anymore. We say something but we don’t hold to it like we should. Live a life full of love and faithfulness!
9/9/2021
Romans 8:6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.
We live with this daily struggle. We choose who we are going to listen to each and every day. Will we listen to our old sinful nature or will we listen to the Holy Spirit that is alive and in us. The way our day goes depends on the choice we make!
9/8/2021
Matthew 8:26 He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.
9/7/2021
1 Corinthians 15:3-4 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,
These two verses share with us the Gospel, the Good News! Because of what Jesus did that is described in these verses we can have our sins forgiven, we can have eternal life, we can spend eternity in the presence of God. I would say that is something to be thankful for today and everyday!
9/3/2021
Psalm 34:1 I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
This is a very special scripture to me and my wife Phanie. As we celebrate our anniversary today I am reminded how everything I do, including my marriage, should give praise and glory to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I pray that our marriage is a reflection of God’s love for us and his blessings of second chances.
9/2/2021
1 Peter 1:22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart
This verse always makes me think of my wife. I am so blessed with a wonderful wife who loves me and loves God even more. Tell the people you love them and then spend your life showing that love to them! Love is an action word, put your love into action and love deeply from the heart!
9/1/2021
I Corinthians 10:11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.
Growing up there were some thing I didn’t do because I saw my older brother and sister do them and it not turn out so well for them. You can say I learned from their mistakes. That is what today’s scripture is telling us. We have examples in the Bible of mistakes people made that we can learn from so we don’t make the same mistakes. We need to spend time in God’s Word every day so that we can learn from other’s mistakes and not make them.
8/31/2021
Luke 14:26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.
Sermon – Who Do You Follow? Matthew 8:18-23
8/30/2021
1 Corinthians 9:25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.
Can you imagine if people put as much time, effort and money into serving God that they put into their own or their children’s athletic pursuit. I believe satan has done a really good job of using sports to lure people away from putting Christ number one in their lives. I am not saying there aren’t great Christian athletes that represent God the way they should but I do believe that many of us are chasing a crown that will not last instead of one that will last forever.
8/27/2021
1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
This is my dad’s favorite verse. Growing up we memorized this verse and I understood the idea that if I was going to do something I needed to do it to the best of my ability. It seems like a lot of people are really good at doing their best at sports, competitions, their jobs but how often do we take that work hard do our best kind of attitude and apply it to our Christian walk? How much better of a Christian could we be if we ran spiritually has hard as some of us do professionally and athletically?
8/26/2021
Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
This is a powerful verse for us to remember. We don’t have to be anxious about the things we face because we don’t have to just depend on ourselves. We have the power of the Holy Spirit alive and inside of us. He will allow us to make it through whatever we may be facing. The Holy Spirit will strengthen us and help us to stand firm!
8/25/2021
1 Corinthians 1:26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.
This verse is a reminder that God doesn’t always use the “perfect” person for a job. Often times He uses the least likely person to do a job and sometimes in a very unexpected way. So don’t let any weaknesses you have make you think He can’t use you. Your weakness is no obstacle to God!
8/24/2021
Psalm 130:4 But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.
If you are saved and your sins are forgiven then there is something you should be doing and that is serving the Lord. To often after we are saved we just sit back and coast through life instead of looking for opportunities to serve our Lord and Savior and share with others the change that has happened in our life.
Sermon – Saved to Serve – Matthew 8:14-17
8/23/2021
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
This is a verse that every Christian should read every day. It is so easy to get off track and feel fearful or overwhelmed with what is going on in our lives. We just need to remember the three things God promises us he will do, strengthen, help and uphold. Knowing that the God of the universe is going to do that for me today makes facing today a lot easier and gives me more reason for joy!
8/20/2021
1 Corinthians 12:4-5 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord
Each one of us has some gift that God has blessed us with. It is our job to figure out what that gift is and how we can use it for God’s glory. If there is something you are good at I pray that you pray and think about ways God can use you through that talent to reach others for Him. Be the person God created you to be!
8/19/2021
1 Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?
As Christians we need to remember this verse. A lot of people talk about it and how we treat our body, and that is so true. We also need to remember that the spirit is alive and with us all the time. We don’t have to fear, we don’t have to feel alone. We have the power that rose Jesus from the grave alive and in us. I think we can handle what the day brings knowing that!
8/18/2021
Acts 4:33-34 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales
This verse shows us where the help for the needy should come from, you and me. It shouldn’t be a problem for our government, the church should take care of the ones in need.
8/17/2021
Matthew 8:10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.
What does Jesus say when he sees your faith?
8/16/2021
Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
How often do we as Christians really live out this verse? We welcome the gift of salvation and the great benefit it brings of knowing we will spend eternity with our Lord and Savior but do we every truly deny ourselves? Do we daily take up our cross and follow His commands? As Christians it is time we love others as we love ourselves and meet the needs of those around us in whatever way that we can even if it involves denying ourselves of some things. Trust me, it is worth it!
7/27/2021
Matthew 8:2-3 A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.
7/25/2021
Matthew 7:15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
7/18/2021
Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find i
Sermon – Pick One, The Correct One
7/13/2021
Mark 12:29-31 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
Sometimes we think the Bible is hard to understand. When I read a passage like this I think it is pretty easy to understand but it is really hard to live out. Our world is so full of division, anger and hate right now. We need to start loving God with all that we are and loving others as much as we do ourselves. Not easy but wow the impact it would make!
6/30/2021
Matthew 7:12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
We call it the Golden rule but it should be called Jesus’ rule because He is the one that spoke it at the sermon on the mount. Man how I wish society would listen to something just about everyone was taught at a young age!
Sermon – Not the Gold Suggestion
6/29/2021
Matthew 7:9-11 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Sermon – A Bad Menu – Matthew 7:9-11
6/2/2021
Matthew 7:7-8 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Sermon – Ask Seek Knock – Matthew 7:7-8
5/24/2021
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
It is exciting to step away from a place I have been for so long and follow where God is leading. I know that He has a plan for me and my family and we are excited to see what lies ahead.
5/21/2021
Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
They say doing the right thing is usually the hardest thing to do. As Christians we are to do what the Bible tells us is the right thing. It won’t be easy, it will often face opposition but it is what we are called to do. Live Right today and no matter what, don’t give up!
5/19/2021
1 Peter 5:8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Are we watchful? Do we keep a look out for satan trying to tempt us and bring us down? The devil is real and he is at work today. Stay focused and alert, don’t let him trip you up!
Sermon – Follow the Directions
5/18/2021
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
This passage gives Christians step by step directions about how we should live.
Sermon – Follow the Directions
5/17/2021
Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Another verse that is straightforward and easy to understand. The words used in this verse are not used in “the real world” very often it seems like. We have lost all sense of humility and the idea of putting others ahead of ourselves. We aren’t gentle with people, instead we “Call it like we see it.” Patience, well I don’t have the time to get into that. Bearing with is how we conduct our selves, which should be done in love. There is that word again. Today we continue to love as we deal with people but also work to be humble, gentle and patient with them as well!
5/12/2021
1 Corinthians 16:14 Do everything in love.
I just love when verses are very clear and easy to understand. This one doesn’t take a deep theological understanding. It is straight forward and easy to understand. It isn’t so easy to live out though. It seems like as Christians we have forgotten this verse. How different would your day look if you spent the whole day doing everything in love. Try it today and see and it hopefully will carry over to tomorrow and beyond!
5/11/2021
John 11:27 “Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
5/10/2021
Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.
This is a promise that requires two things on our part. We have to be all in living for the Lord. We also have to trust in Him completely. When we do that God is going to get busy in our life. I love how it says, “He will act.” Maybe not exactly the way we wanted or hoped but if we are trusting we will know His way is best anyway.
5/6/2021
Ephesians 6:13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Are you ready? Have you prepared yourself for battle today? I hope you have gotten out of bed and spent some time in prayer and reading God’s word to help you battle against the evil that will come your way today! Stand Firm!
5/4/2021
Psalm 93:4 Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea— the Lord on high is mighty.
We have a loving and powerful Savior. We often forget that He is the creator of all things and all things are under Him. Why do we stress and worry knowing that our all powerful Lord holds us in His hands!
4/30/2021
Matthew 7:3-5 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no
attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the
speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
We are so quick to judge! We look for and point out all the failing of others. Instead we should be quick to judge ourselves and ourselves only. We have enough problems of our own we don’t need to spend time focusing on others.
4/29/2021
Ephesians 5:11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
We are either a part of them or we are working against them. We make a choice each and every day which it will be. Will you walk in the light today or will you live in darkness? The choice is up to you.
4/28/2021
Galatians 6:1 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
4/27/2021
Matthew 7:1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
4/26/2021
2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
Often times we think or feel like we have to do it all on our own but we don’t. Our strength comes from the Lord and He can help us overcome the struggles we have in our life. Spend time with Jesus today and depend on Him for your strength as you face difficult situations today!
4/22/2021
Psalm 56:8 You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.
When I read this verse I think about how much God cares about us. The hurt and pain we go through. The suffering we endure. All of this is important to Him because he loves us so very much! I pray you find comfort and strength knowing how much God loves you!
4/21/2021
Proverbs 16:20 Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the Lord will be joyful.
A good litmus test to see if you are trusting the Lord is Joy! If you are struggling to find joy in your life maybe you need to think about wether or not you are trust in Jesus or yourself. When we trust in Him completely we experience joy like none other!
4/14/2021
Matthew 6:27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
You have to love when Jesus ask a rhetorical question!
4/13/2021
1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Sermon – Why Worry? Matthew 6:25-34
4/12/2021
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Spending time in God’s word every day helps to walk in the way he wants us to walk. We can’t know how to live out the day if we aren’t spending time reading His playbook!
4/9/2021
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isn’t so wonderful that no matter what we are going through in our life we do not have to be afraid or stressed because God has us! We can lean into Him and trust Him completely. Rest easy today on this promise!
4/8/2021
1 John 3:8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.
Sermon – The First – John 20:1-18
4/5/2021
Luke 23:43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
As I think about the day after Jesus died I think about the criminals next to Him on the cross. The day after one of the was experiencing hell and the other was experiencing Heaven with Jesus. One accepted Jesus and the other rejected Him and their choice impacted them for eternity. My question to you today, “Where would you be tomorrow if you died today?”
4/3/2021
1 Peter 2:24 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”
Thank you Jesus for loving us so much that you paid our sin debt! It feels wrong to rejoice today because of what you did knowing all the pain and suffering you went through but because of it I am saved today! Have you been saved? Do you live for righteousness?
4/2/2021
John 18:4-6 Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.“I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.
3/30/2021
Philippians 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross!
3/29/2021
Psalm 37:34 Put your hope in the Lord. Travel steadily along His path.
Once again we have a choice as to where we put our hope and trust. We can put it in the things of this world, our job, our relationships, our possessions or we can put our hope in God. It is a daily choice to walk the way He has called us to walk or to go our own way.
3/26/2021
Romans 6:16 Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?
The phrase, “you are slaves of the one you obey” is a powerful phrase. We are all slave to something. We all have a master of some kind. My prayer today is that I make God my slave for the day! I put Him in complete control of my life. Who or what will be your master today?
3/24/2021
Joshua 14:8 …I, however, followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly.
Can you imagine being able to say this at the end of your life? Sometimes I struggle to be able to say it for a day. I pray that each day I focus on being able to say this to myself in the mirror before I go to bed.
3/23/2021
Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
3/22/2021
1 Timothy 6:18-19 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
We are told to store up treasures in Heaven and not on Earth. This verse gives us three things that we can do to store up treasures. First we have to do what is good (right) in God’s eyes. We should read the Bible and do our best to live it out. Secondly, we are to do good for other people and lastly be willing to share and meet the needs that others have.
3/16/2021
Matthew 6:22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.
3/15/2021
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
It can be difficult when we are going through a time of not knowing what is next and where God wants us. However, we can rest easy knowing He has a plan for our lives and is working to make those plans a reality.
3/12/2021
Deuteronomy 31:8 The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
When the future is uncertain and you don’t know what lies ahead this is a great verse to pray over. Pretty awesome to think that my Lord and Savior already has it worked out and so I don’t need to worry or stress. I just need to trust in Him and know He is there with me!
3/11/2021
1 Timothy 6:17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
Being rich can be a blessing if you don’t handle it in the wrong way. God blesses people financially but Jesus stresses how important it is that people keep their hope and focus where it really belongs, on Him!
3/10/2021
Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
3/8/2021
Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This is one of those verses that I with I could live out better than I do. I am one that can get anxious. I often struggle with living in the peace that God has for us when we trust in Him completely. I love how Paul uses inclusive words in his writing like, EVERYTHING. No matter what you are dealing with right now know that God wants you to trust Him and not be anxious. He wants you to pray about it and let Him guide and direct you.
3/5/2021
Psalm 33:20-21 We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. 21 In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
Sometimes it is hard to wait but we know that God calls for us to wait on Him and His timing. It takes a lot of trust to turn things over to Him knowing that He loves us and will go with as through whatever it is we are dealing with. He will help us as we face the difficult challenges we face.
3/4/2021
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Sometimes God calls us to do things that take a lot of courage and strength. That courage and strength doesn’t come from us it comes from the power of the Holy Spirit alive in us. No matter what you are facing, you are not alone and you have the strength to be able to get through it with God!
3/3/2021
Philippians 1:9-11 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Sometimes it is hard to discern what is right and sometimes it is not. Sometimes it is pretty clear what you should or shouldn’t do and sometimes there is a struggling in knowing what is the right path to choose. I pray that we grow in our relationship with Christ so that we have a better understand of what we are to do. No matter what, make sure what you do glorifies and gives praise to God!
3/2/2021
Psalm 63:1 You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.
What is it that you seek after and long for in your life? What is it that you can go a few hours with out? It is your phone? TV? Video Games? My prayer is that we long for God and to spend time with Him!
3/1/2021
Psalm 122:1 I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD.”
I came across this verse today and just love it. Especially as we approach the end of the week. I am so ready to get back to the house of the Lord. I am ready to see my brothers and sisters in Christ, worship and praise my Savior and learn more about Him. Church membership and attendance has been on a drastic decline for the past twenty years and people are finding other things to do with their time that usually was spent in church. It is time we as Christians return to God’s house!
2/26/2021
Psalm 50:15 call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”
Our God is in the delivering business. He can deliver us from the grip and penalty of sin in our lives and set us on solid ground. When we are struggling with sin and temptation we need to humble ourselves and call on God to deliver us. Then we need to respect God for what he was done in our life, He deserves it!
2/24/2021
Matthew 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’
This verse can be a head scratcher for us. Hopefully this sermon helps you understand it a little better.
2/23/2021
James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds
2/22/2021
1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
What would the world look like today if every Christian started to live out this one verse? If we put Christ first in our life and focused on giving Him the glory in everything we do it would impact so many for Him. You can’t control everyone but you can control yourself, you can decide if all you do is going to be done in a way that gives God glory!
2/19/2021
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Every once in a while I have to post this verse. It is one of my favorites and I need the reminder that I can lean into Jesus completely and trust Him to take care of things. I also remind myself that the path is straight not smooth, not flat, not easy. However, it is the right path!
2/17/2021
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
So often in life we make plans and think we have our future all laid out. Over thirty years ago I thought I did. Even though I felt God calling me to be a pastor that didn’t fit in my plans so I ran away from it. Well, here I am now doing what we wanted me to do so long ago. God’s plan’s do prevail and it is all worth it when they do!
2/16/2021
Jeremiah 32:17 “Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.
There are times that we go through trials and storms in life when we feel like things are just too hard for us. That can be true. The thing is it is never too hard for our Lord and Savior! This is a verse we need to remember and fall back on when things seem just too hard!
Sermon – Storm Season – Mark 4:35-41
2/15/2021
John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
We know John 3:16 and talk about what a great verse it is, and it is. I wish people had the verse right after it memorized as well. Jesus did come and the reason He came was so that everyone might be saved. You have to pay attention to the word might though. The might depends on you, will you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and have eternal salvation or will you reject Him and face eternal damnation?
2/12/2021
1 Peter 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
Each of us has a talent that we can use for God. What is it that you love to do and are passionate about? What is something you do that can be a blessing to others and bring joy to their life? I am sure you if you spend some time thinking and praying about it you can figure out what it is and then work to find different ways to bless people with the talent God has blessed you with for His glory!
2/11/2021
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Sermon – Loan Stark Christians
2/9/2021
Ephesians 4:31-32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another,forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Sermon – Loan Stark Christians
2/8/2021
1 Chronicles 16:11 Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.
This verse is a reminder to use that the strength of the Lord doesn’t just fall on us when we are saved and then we have it forever. We have to continually pursue Him and seek to know Him more and more. Then when we spend time with Him in prayer and spend time in His word we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Are you seeking Jesus today? Are you growing in your strength?
2/5/2021
Job 12:10 In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.
I love this verse and the truth that lies in it. We aren’t here by accident or some bang. We are here by the hand of our God! Take time today to breath in the air around you and think about the complexity of these wonderful bodies God has blessed us with.
2/3/2021
Matthew 4:4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Food is such a huge and important part of our lives, if we don’t get it we get weak, shakey and sometimes hangry. The thing is if we don’t spend time in God’s word we can quickly become spiritually weak and shakey. We can become an easier target for satan and struggle in our walk. I have also noticed when I spend less time in God’s word it is easier for me to get angry with Him and wrestle with Him over things in my life. I hope you eat well today not just physical food, but even more so spiritual food. Eat up!
2/2/2021
Matthew 6:11 Give us today our daily bread.
2/1/2021
Philippians 2:1-2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
This verse is a pretty simple idea, you get it so give it. All the things we have in Christ are things we should live out to others. Look for ways today to encourage others, to comfort others, to show tenderness and compassion. What would our world look like if every Christian did those things today? It is time we stop tearing down, hurting and being mean to one another. Live how God has called you to live today.
1/29/2021
Ephesians 5:8-10 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness,righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord.
Were and now, pretty powerful words if we really live out what they mean. The problem is some of us are children of light but still slip back into the darkness of sin from time to time. We want to focus on what pleases us or those around us instead of what pleases our Heavenly Father. Will you live in the light today? Who will you please today?
1/28/2021
Matthew 26:39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
I am so thankful that Jesus spoke and lived out these words. We can say we want God’s will in our life but are we willing to do it when it is in front of us? Are we willing to choose His way over the way we want? I understand sometimes it is hard to know God’s will but the closer we get to Him through prayer and reading His word the easier it is. Whose will do you choose today, God’s or your own?
1/27/2021
John 14:15 “If you love me, keep my commands.
You want a litmus test of your relationship with God, just read this verse and think about what it says. It is easy to say, “I love Jesus.” We are quick to say we are saved, we are a Christian. Then Jesus puts this verse out there and says oh you love me, that is great. Just keep my commands. We think, no problem. I don’t kill, I don’t cheat on my wife, I don’t steal, I am doing pretty well. Lord willing you are. But do you ever struggle with putting something as a priority over God? Do you ever struggle with wanting what others have? I know I do. Jesus doesn’t say “If you love me, keep some of my commands.” He wants all areas of our lives. He wants us to love Him fully and completely just as He loves us.
1/22/2021
1 Peter 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
When is the last time you used one of your talents that God has given you to bless someone else? We are really good at using them for our gain but God wants us to serve and bless others. Then it refers to God’s grace, which is giving someone what they don’t deserve. So that blessing you can give to someone can be to someone who possibly doesn’t deserve it. I know that is hard because they may be the last people we want to bless but we are called to bless them as well.
1/21/2021
Luke 12:21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.”
This verse puts it pretty bluntly and easy to understand but we don’t seem to get the picture. We focus so much on money money money and don’t make time for what really matters. You have the chance to be rich in life, everyone does, the question is what do you choose to be rich in?
1/20/2021
Psalm 19:14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
A prayer to start the day. I pray that the things I say today are uplifting and encouraging to others and the thoughts of my heart, that lead to actions, will be what the Lord wants them to be. I know there will be challenges and that satan will tries his best to keep me from reaching this goal for the day but by the power of the Holy Spirit I will not let him be successful.
1/19/2021
Psalm 16:8 I have set the Lord always before me.
If you look around you see a lot of people wearing glasses. They are there in front of them where ever they do. No matter which direction they look they are always looking through their glasses. I pray that as Christians we can treat God just as people do glasses. Everything that we look at and do in life should be through the lens of God.
1/18/2021
Ephesians 4:31-32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
For a country whose motto is “In God we trust” and whose pledge has the words, “One nation under God” in it we have sure fallen far from God and what His word says. I look at this passage and I see a verse that shows exactly where we are as a country and where God wants us to be. We can’t change others but we can make sure our life reflects verse 32 and not the things listed in verse 31.
1/14/2021
Matthew 9:37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.
With all that is going on in our crazy world at this time I am reminded as Christians we need to be busy doing the Lords work and leading others to Him. There are so many that need to know the love of the Father and His saving grace.
1/13/2021
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Sometimes when we are struggling with life and feel like we aren’t living the way we should it is hard to spend time with our Father in prayer. The things is God doesn’t care what we are like or going through He wants us to spend time with Him even if that means we come to Him in prayer when our life is messy.
1/12/2021
Matthew 18:2-3 He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. 3 And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
1/11/2021
Revelations 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
This morning I lift up a friend in prayer who has lost her mother. It seems like there is always people around us who have lost someone close to them. Oh I how look forward to the new order, how I look forward to death no longer having it’s grip on us. May those of you who have lost a loved one or friend find strength and comfort knowing that these days of death and loss will pass. Thank you Jesus!
1/8/2021
Matthew 4:19-20 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him.
The men that were called by Jesus and followed Him were all in. They left everything their personal and professional lives. Their number one priority was to follow Jesus. I wonder how many of us are all in. Have we made sacrifices to follow Jesus and make Him number one in our life?
1/7/2021
Matthew 4:10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”
When is the last time you told satan to get away from you? When you feel him tempting you and trying to pull you into that old sin do what Jesus did and read or recite scripture that deals with that sin and tell satan to get the heck away from you!
1/6/2021
Matthew 3:8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.
As Christians we should produce fruit. I think sometimes thought we feel like we aren’t doing a good job because we expect all of our fruit to be pineapple size fruit when some of it may actually be blueberry sized fruit. You probably aren’t going to lead someone to the Lord every day. However, every day you can be a Godly husband and Father the impacts your spouse and children as well as those who see you in this way. Also remember fruit can take time to grow.
1/5/2021
Matthew 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Why do you prayer? Do you pray so that others see it and think “wow look what a good Christian they are.” Jesus teaches us that is the wrong way to pray. He wants us to get a lone with God and spend some time with Him in a personal, intimate way. Make your prayer life a priority in your life and spend some alone time with God today.
1/4/2021
Psalm 63:3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.
I read this verse a couple days ago and it really stuck with me. We always have a reason to glorify God, because he loves us! His love is better than life on the Earth because God’s love gives us the opportunity to spend eternity with Him if we are will to confess our sins, repent and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Today I glorify God because He loves me no matter how messed up or broken I am!
1/2/2020
Philippians 3:13-14 Brothers and sisters, 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, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
I know we would all like to forget 2020 and some of the challenges we face. I bet if you think about it you can find some real blessing from God during the past year. However, today is about looking forward. What will your 2021 look like? You get to decide a lot of it. Will you focus on what is going on around you or will you focus on what lies ahead, eternity. I pray this year will be a year you grow closer to Christ and more like Him. I know that is my prayer today for myself. They Will Be Done in 2021!
1/1/2021
Psalm 42:1 As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.
As we prepare to start a new year and I think about what I want 2021 to look like for my life first and foremost I pray that I will long for God. That I will long to spend more time in prayer with Him. That I will long to spend more time in His word. That I will long to live out His will for my life.
12/31/2020
Luke 2:25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
You read about Simeon and you see a man that all of us should be. Scripture tells us he was righteous which means he did what was right and rejected what was wrong. A pretty good example of how we should live. He was devout which means he was faithful and respected God. He was waiting for the Messiah just like we as Christians today should be waiting for the return of Jesus. Simeon was also lead by the Holy Spirit. Something we all have the opportunity to do but I know I am guilty of not always listening to His leading.
12/28/2020
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are leftwill be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.
Christmas is over, no more presents to open, leftovers from a big Christmas meal. The wonderful thing is that Jesus’ work isn’t over. Just as they were awaiting the Messiah we as Christians await Jesus Christ returning again. We can focus on the hope/promise of His return but also remember that each day we are one day closer and need to be busy sharing about Jesus first and second coming so other can come into a relationship with Him!
12/26/2020
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Merry Christmas! I pray you have a wonderful day and are able to share time with family. Most of all I pray that you know the one and only Son of God who loved you so much He was willing to come on Christmas Day!
12/25/2020
Colossians 1:15 Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation
This Christmas Eve I hope you remember what tomorrow is really about. It is about a God who loved you so much that He was willing to do what was necessary to allow us to come into a relationship with Him. The greatest gift ever given was Jesus Christ and the gift of salvation that is available because of HIs death and resurrection. Celebrate Jesus and what He did for you! Celebrate the joy of your salvation!
12/24/2020
1 John 3:8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.
We needed the first Christmas so that Jesus could destroy the devil’s work. Don’t you just love that fact! The devil is hard at work but he is already defeated his fate is sealed! I wish Christians would remember that and realize that sin does not have to have control over us. We choose each day, hour and minute if we will let sin control us or if we will let the Holy Spirit! Which do you choose today?
12/22/2020
1 John 3:5-6 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.
I am so thankful that Jesus appeared so that we can have our sins forgiven! I am thankful for the First Christmas and all that Jesus did for us because He was willing to come and be all that we need!
Sermon – What If There Wasn’t Christmas
12/21/2020
1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus
There are two things that I love about this verse. First when it says “the man.” It is just a reminder of what Jesus did at Christmas when he was born as a human, when He became like us so that He could pay the penalty for our sins. The second part is the fact that Jesus is our mediator. He did the work to bring us back into a relationship with God so we were no longer His enemy and separated from Him! Thank you Jesus for your love and sacrifice to give us the opportunity to come back to God!
12/18/2020
Deuteronomy 4:9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Today is a very special day, my mom’s Birthday. I thank God for the wonderful mom he blessed me with. She is such an amazing person who has done so much for me and my family that I can never thank her enough. She has such a giving spirit and has been a spiritual stronghold for me! I love you Mamo!
12/17/2020
Titus 2:13 While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ
We are getting ready to celebrate Jesus coming to Earth at Christmas. What is awesome though is to know that He is coming again to take us home to be with Him! When you celebrate Christmas keep in mind the future celebration that will take place when we are truly Home!
12/16/2020
Titus 2:12 It (Grace of God) teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,
When we are saved we enter training. The Grace of God through Jesus Christ and His teaching begin to train us how we are supposed to live. We need to go through a lot of learning and experience to develop and mature into the Christian God would have us to be. Are you in God’s Training Course? Are you spending time in His Word daily?
12/15/2020
John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
I will come back. I love that phrase. I love it because it reminds us that He has already been here. We are preparing to celebrate Jesus coming and that should be a time of joy, peace and hope. We also need to rejoice in knowing that He is coming back. He will come again and this time our Lord and Savior will take us Home with Him! Praise the Lord!
12/11/2020
Isaiah 26:3-4 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.
What is it that you trust in? That is decides if you have peace in your life or not. If you trust in the things of this world you will struggle to find peace but if you truly trust on the eternal Rock you can have a peace that this world can not offer!
12/10/2020
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
It is important that we keep our focus on what is important during this time of difficulty and uncertainty. Although some things may seem uncertain there is one thing that is still certain and that is God is still on His thrown and in control. Let us keep our eyes focused on Him and not the problems around us.
12/9/2020
Colossians 1:11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience
We often forget that our strength does not come from ourselves but from the power of God alive inside of us. We have the power and strength we need to go through challenges and difficult times because we have the power of God in us. Depend on Him and His strength today!
12/8/2020
Deuteronomy 31:8 The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
I know there are a lot of people feeling discouraged, defeated and afraid during this time. It is easy to fall into this trap of the devil with all that is going on around us. We need to remember that we are not going through this alone. We have a comforter, we have a strengthener we have a home and promise and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
12/7/2020
Psalm 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
Twice in this verse it stress that we should have a heart that is thankful and praising of our Lord and Savior. We are quick to focus on the negative and complain about what is going on when we should really be focused on what Christ has down for us and the blessings he pours out on us!
11/24/2020
Psalm 100:1 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
11/23/2020
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight
I haven’t posted this verse in a while. It is one of my all time favorite verses because of the promise he makes. The problem is I often time struggle to trust Him and try to depend on myself. With all that is going on in our country and world it is nice knowing we can trust in our Lord and Savior and not the government to take care of us.
11/20/2020
James 1:2-3 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.
Troubles = Joy
As a math teacher that equation just doesn’t seem to be true. The problem is what does joy equal and what do troubles equal. Joy is something we have because of our relationship with Jesus Christ and knowing that He has saved us and forgiven us if we have called on Him. Troubles are experience we go through that help us grow and mature. If you are dealing with some troubles and trials right now, as many are, don’t let it steal your joy. Trust in the Savior of your soul!
11/19/2020
Proverbs 3:13-14 Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. 14 For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold.
Notice it says, “who finds wisdom.” Wisdom isn’t something that just falls into your lap. It isn’t even something you get just because you grow older. If you want wisdom you have to seek it out, you have to pursue it. Read God’s word, listen to scripture based preaching, listen to guidance of those more mature in their faith that you trust. Chase after wisdom more than you do other things in your life especially money.
11/18/2020
Proverbs 21:26 Some people are always greedy for more, but the Godly love to give!
Do you love to give? As Christians we should love to give, especially to those who are in need. We should be on the lookout for someone that we can bless the way that God has blessed us. We should also help them in a way that points to God and not to us.
Sermon – Who Did What? – Matthew 6:1-4
11/17/2020
Proverbs 14:31 Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but helping the poor honors him. (NLT)
Sermon – Who Did What? – Matthew 6:1-4
11/16/2020
1 Corinthians 14:20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
Have you ever stopped and thought about the fact that our thoughts are either childish or as adults. When you think about it, it is true. In our life we can either think of things in a mature way or childish way. We don’t always think the same. Are their areas in your life that you need to mature in your thinking?
12/13/2020
Psalm 33:4 For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.
We have probably all heard it, “I don’t believe the Bible.” Just because someone doesn’t believe it doesn’t make it true. The Bible is the Word of God. It is the Truth and the Good News. We can stand firm on that as well as knowing that God is faithful and will do what he says He is going to do. Sure makes the problems of this world a lot smaller when you can build your foundation on that!
11/12/2020
Matthew 5:46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
We set the bar pretty low while Jesus sets it high. He wants us to love everyone, even the ones who are hard to love. He isn’t impressed when we love those who love us. If you want to impress Jesus start loving all the way that he loves us!
11/10/2020
Matthew 5:43-44 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
One of the most challenging verses in the Bible on how Christians should live. I would love to every Christian start to live out what we are told here to do. I bet it would have an earthquake like impact in our country and world.
Sermon – Love Who? – Matthew 5:43-48
11/09/2020
Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I thought with the unease that so many are feeling with the election and everything that is going on in our country right now that these verses would be a good reminder for us all. Paul is great at using all inclusive words; anything, every situations. That means even now with all that is going on we can trust in God and find peace through Him.
11/6/2020
Ephesians 5:15-17 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Four things we all need to do in our life but I must admit I am not always good at. First make wise decisions, I wish I was better at the sometimes. Second take advantage of the opportunities you are given to share Jesus with others, I wish I would do that more. Third is to not be a fool, sadly at times I make foolish mistakes. Lastly understand the Lords will for you. The best way to do this is to spend time in His word and in Prayer. How are you doing in each of these areas and what can you do to improve in them?
11/5/2020
Romans 13:1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
We will soon be finding out who our president will be for the next four years. If it is your candidate or not they will be your President and you should be supportive of them and be lifting them up in prayer. More importantly I know my Savior is in control for eternity!
11/4/2020
Matthew 5:41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.
During biblical times a Roman soldier could for people to carry their supplies a mile. The law required you to do it or face possible flogging/beating. After a mile you were free to go. Imagine the response of the soldier if you offered carry his things another mile. This kind of selflessness would open the door to talks about the one who calls us to go the extra mile. When we go beyond what people expect we are given new opportunities to share the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Sermon – Yes or No – Matthew 5:33-42
11/3/2020
Matthew 5:37 All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
Sermon – Yes or No – Matthew 5:33-42
11/2/2020
Colossians 3:14-15 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
I think our country could use a lot of love right now. Christians need to stand up and stand out and love one another. We need to quit letting hate and difference of opinions rule our hearts instead of Jesus. It is time we have a heart of gratitude and think about how blessed we.
10/29/2020
Lamentations 3:22-23 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.
23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.
No sin can change the way our Savior feels about it, he loves us no matter what. He will forgive our sins and give us a new and fresh start. All we have to do is turn from our sin, turn to Him and accept His forgiveness. Today can be a new beginning for you!
10/27/2020
Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.
It is one or the other. Either our old sinful nature is in control of our thoughts and actions or the Holy Spirit is. We choose and we decide. It is simple but not always easy. Which will you choose to follow today?
10/23/2020
1 Timothy 2:1-2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
As Christians we are supposed to pray for our leaders in government. Praying for them is not based on if we like them or think they are doing a good job, it is God’s will for His children.
10/22/2020
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Today I will preach a funeral for a wonderful man from one of my churches. It will be hard but it will also be a time of rejoicing because I know he has eternal life. He may not be here with us anymore but he is home with his Lord and Savior. Thank you God for loving us so much and for sending your son!
10/21/2020
Luke 23:42-43 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Just a while before this the criminal on the cross was yelling at Jesus with everyone else. Somewhere along the way he had a change of heart. He turned from his anger to Jesus.
10/20/2020
Matthew 5:23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
10/19/2020
Romans 8:6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.
As Christians we either listen the to Holy Spirit guiding and leading us or we fall back to our sinful nature and it’s desires. We get to make the choice, we get to decide. Who are you going to listen to today?
10/16/2020
Philippians 1:21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Yesterday one of stalwarts of our church passed away. The last couple years have been very hard on him health wise. Getting the call was hard because he meant so much to me and everyone else at the church. We hurt for ourselves and for his family but there is a part of me that is happy and rejoicing because I know he is at home in Heaven. No more illness, no more pain and suffering. Yesterday we lost a great man but he gained so much!
10/15/2020
Romans 14:13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.
Seems like sometimes the hardest people on Christians are other Christians. Why do we judge our brothers and sisters the way we do instead of being loving and merciful?
10/14/2020
1 Peter 3:18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.
I love the line, “to bring you to God.” That is why Jesus did what he did on the cross, so we can come to God and spend eternity in His presence! What a wonderful gift that is available to all.
Sermon – Jot and Tittle – Matthew 5:17-20
10/13/2020
Matthew 5:18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
Sermon – Jot and Tittle – Matthew 5:17-20
10/12/2020
Matthew 5:17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
Sermon – Jot and Tittle – Matthew 5:17-20
10/11/2020
1 Peter 3:8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.
Man we sure could use some of this in our country right now! We sure aren’t seeing these attributes lived out by our leaders, general population and sadly sometimes by Christians. We need to start living the way God has called us to live and impact people in this way.
10/8/2020
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Sometimes people get to the point they feel worthless, but when you read this verse it reminds us how valuable we are to God. To be called his handiwork or masterpiece is pretty amazing. We are also valuable to Him because He has things planned for us to do for Him. Be looking, ready and willing to do the things God planned for you.
10/7/2020
Matthew 5:14-15 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
10/5/2020
Matthew 5:13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
Sermon – Preserve and Point
Matthew 5:13-16
10/4/2020
2 Timothy 2:23-26 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
How we respond when we face opposition is so important. We have the opportunity to be gently and loving and possibly point that person to Christ. Your actions can change their life for eternity. Help them escape from the devils control by handling the situation the way the Lord wants you to.
9/30/2020
1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
You will face suffering in this world. It can either be suffering by following the will of God and facing rejection and opposition from the world or by choosing to live as the world and dealing with the consequences. The choice is up to you.
9/29/20
John 15:18-20 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.
How does the world see you? Do they see you as one of their own or as an enemy because you are different and stand for something else. As Christians we can either please the world or we can please God but we can’t do both!
Sermon – Facing Opposition – Matthew 5:10-12
9/28/2020
Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Although most of us will never really experience extreme persecution we will face opposition. How will we respond to it? I pray I am able to follow Jesus example.
Sermon – Facing Opposition – Matthew 5:10-12
9/27/2020
Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
A wonderful reminder of how Christians should live. We have joy in our heart because of the promise of eternity with God. We know that the things of this world do not compare to what is to come for us. We have our Lord and Savior who is with us and wants to talk with us daily. Start your day off with prayer today!
9/25/2020
Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
This is a straight forward verse that is pretty simple to understand but can be extremely difficult to put into action. If you have conflict with someone you need to do whatever you can to reconcile that conflict. Do whatever you can do!
9/24/2020
Proverbs 12:18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
We forget how powerful our words are and not just the word but the way we say them. Be careful what you say today and how you say it. I pray your words help and heal!
9/23/2020
Matthew 5:23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
A reminder of how important it is when there is conflict in a relationship for us to take the first step and do whatever we can to help reconcile the conflict. If there is someone you need to go to and begin to heal a conflict make today the day that you go and begin working on it.
Sermon – Do All You Can Do! Matthew 5:9
9/22/2020
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
When we have conflict with someone else we need to go to God first and ask him to give us the wisdom on how to deal with the situation and what to say. We forget the access to the power of God we have and we need to use it to help us reconcile a conflict.
Sermon – Do All You Can Do! Matthew 5:9
9/21/2020
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Sermon – Do All You Can Do! Matthew 5:9
9/20/2020
Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
When is the last time you felt God leading you to do something without giving you the whole plan? Were you frozen by the uncertainty or did you step out and faith and let Him lead you where He desired? It isn’t easy but it will be worth it in the end. Step out in faith and just in the Lord.
9/18/2020
Revelations 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Just a reminder to those who are saved about what we have to look forward to when our time on earth is complete. I know when I read it this morning it was encouraging to me. Don’t let the pain of this world get you down, it is temporary!
9/17/2020
Proverbs 10:9 People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed.
When we lack integrity we wear different mask. We are different based upon who we are around. The problem is when you live that way at some point you will wear the wrong mask at the wrong time and it will come out that you aren’t who you pretend to be. Wear no masks and be the same person no matter where you are or who you are around, live with integrity!
9/16/2020
Proverbs 11:20 The Lord detests people with crooked hearts, but he delights in those with integrity.
The actions we do either please God greatly or He intensely dislikes them. When we live with integrity it is pleasing to God. When we don’t we are hurting our witness which would explain why God detest it.
9/15/2020
Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
If you are saved you have a pure heart by the blood of Jesus Christ and will one day not only see God but spend eternity with Him. We can also experience God now through salvation and living a life with a pure heart. That doesn’t mean you won’t sin but it means you live a life of integrity, a single heart. You are the same person all the time and don’t wear different masks based on where you are or who you are around.
9/14/2020
1 Timothy 1:16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.
Thank the Lord for His mercy! I am right up there with Paul when it comes to sinning, we all are! No matter our sinful past and present God allows us to be forgiven by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. God is patiently waiting for you to come to Him and experience his mercy!
9/11/2020
Matthew 14:29 “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.
When is the last time you got out of the boat and let God do something miraculous in your life? We can only experience the power of God when we get out of the boat and trust in Him completely. Does God have some water walking for you to do today?
9/10/2020
Ephesians 2:4-5 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.
I am so thankful for God’s mercy. Because of it and the work of Jesus on the cross we can be forgiven of our sins and be made spiritually live forever! Mercy is a pretty amazing thing not just to receive but also to give. Be merciful today!
9/9/2020
Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Born again Christians should be the most merciful people in the world. We have experienced God’s mercy in not giving us the punishment we deserve for our sin thanks to the work of Jesus on the cross. In turn we are to be merciful to others. When is the last time you showed someone mercy when most people wouldn’t or when you didn’t want to? Be merciful, today and every day!
9/7/2020
1 Corinthians 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
To often we think we can do it all and are better off doing things our own way. This verse reminds us that we are so much wiser when we depend upon him completely!
9/5/2020
Psalm 12:6 And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver purified in a crucible, like gold refined seven times.
What is more precious than the Word of God? I pray that you spend time today to take in the treasure that it is!
9/4/2020
Psalm 10:17-18 You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, 18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.
Sadly too many people grow up without their father in their lives and research shows us how big of an impact that can have on a child’s life. Those people need to know they have a Heavenly Father who loves them so very much and wants to have a relationship with them.
9/3/2020
Psalm 10:4 In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.
Pride and wicked go together. We can not think we don’t need Christ because we do. The problem is we get so wrapped up in our own world that we don’t make time for the most important one in it!
9/2/2020
Psalm 9:1 I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
Do you? Do you have a heart full of thankfulness? Do you tell others of how God has blessed you in so many ways? If you don’t, what is stopping you! Thank your Lord and Savior today and share with someone the amazing things he has done in your life!
9/1/2020
1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.
We have a choice. The choice is either to pursue God or pursue the things of the world. We can’t not seek after both of them. Which one do you choose?
8/31/2020
Matthew 5:6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
8/30/2020
Psalm 7:14 Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.
This is an interesting visual of how the evil in our life can grow and take on a life of it’s own. There are consequences for the things we do both good and evil. What will you deliver today?
8/28/2020
Psalm 5:8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.
Pray today that the Lord will make his will for you today known and then for the strength to continue to follow it completely.
8/27/2020
Psalm 5:3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.
What better way to start your day than in prayer! Ask God to meet your needs for the day and to help you walk the path he has for you. You won’t regret it!
8/25/2020
Psalm 3:3 But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
Walk strong today knowing the Lord is shield and hold your head high to the one who lifts you up and strengthens you. Be filled with Joy knowing you are saved and forgiven.
8/24/2020
Psalm 1:6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
A reminder there are only two categories of people. Those who have a personal relationship with Jesus and those who do not. Which group do you belong to? It is the most important decision we can make in our life! Choose wisely!
8/21/2020
Psalm 1:3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.
What are your roots in? Are you producing fruit for Christ? I think if we were honest with ourselves about where our roots are we might understand why we are doing more for Christ. Do you need a tree/root transplant today?
8/20/2020
Psalm 1:2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
Do we focus on living a righteous life? Are we constantly thinking about how God wants us to live and the decisions he wants us to make.
8/19/2020
Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,
So you want to be blessed? Well here are three things that lead to blessings. Pretty much telling us some of the type of people we need to stay away from, that is unless we are sharing the gospel with them.
8/18/2020
John 6:38 For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.
Jesus himself focused on the will of God and not His own. What a great example for us to live by. Do we want to live God’s will for our life or chart our own course?
8/17/2020
Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
8/16/2020
Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Lately I have been seeing people on Facebook posting pictures of them taking their kids to college and dropping them off. Moments like that remind us of how fast time flies and how short our lives truly are. I pray that we have the wisdom to recognize how short our lives truly are and that we cherish every day as a gift and glorify God first and foremost.
8/13/2020
2 Corinthians 7:10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
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8/10/2020
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
8/9/2020
Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
I read this verse today and decided it will be my verse for the school year. It is going to be challenging year that will require change and
8/5/2020
John 10:4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
Do you know His voice? Even being a sheep sometimes we don’t listen to His. We don’t listen to the Holy Spirit, we don’t listen to what the Bible says. Often times we know what we are supposed to know but we wander away from it. Yep, it usually ends up costing us too. Follow Him today and everyday.
8/4/2020
Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
We have to realize that we are spiritually poor and can do nothing about it.
Sermon – Completely Bankrupt
8/2/2020
Ecclesiastes 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
Listening to the radio today I heard a guy talk about feeling like there was a hole in his heart and he didn’t know what to do to fill it. We try to fill it with money, hobbies, jobs, family, so many different things. The only thing that can fill that hole is the Lord Jesus!
7/30/2020
2 Timothy 2:23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
Wow, what wisdom there is in this verse! It seems like we are more about winning stupid arguments than loving people and meeting their needs. Guilty! Something to focus on improving on.
7/30/2020
Psalm 29:11 The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.
What a great Psalm and promise for us as we go through such trying times. I pray we are strengthened by God’s grace and find peace in Him during these times of uncertainty.
7/29/2020
Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
7/26/2020
Psalm 94:19 When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.
You don’t often see anxiety and joy in the same sentence but when we are comforted by Christ and His love we can have joy replace the anxiety in our lives.
7/25/2020
Psalm 118:8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in humans.
I read this verse last night and I thought man I need to do that. I need to rest and trust and God and quit relying on people! The thing is there is one human I rely on too much and try to trust to much…me! So often I decide to trust what I think is best or let myself slip into fear because I do not trust the Lord the way I should. I pray today that I, and you, will quit trying to do it all ourselves, that we will trust in the one true God who loves us and never leaves us!
7/23/2020
Matthew 4:19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
7/20/2020
1 Peter 4:8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
Today is a very special day, my wife’s birthday! We have been celebrating all day long and have more to come. These verse makes me think of her because one thing we try to do in our marriage is love. We both have our faults and struggles. We can both do things wrong at times but no matter what we strive to live by the example that God gave us.
7/16/2020
Luke 24:46-47 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
We are to proclaim the work of Jesus and the gift of salvation that is offered to all. Are we telling everything what Jesus has done for them?
7/13/2020
Mark 16:15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
7/12/2020
Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
A promise that the Lord is always with us no matter where we go or what we go throug! We have no reason to be afraid but we can stand firm and face whatever comes our way!
7/8/2020
Isaiah 41:13 For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
We face so many different challenges and difficulties but it is always wonderful to read and visualize what the Lord is saying here. He is holding your hand and will help you. We still have to work hard and do our part but we should be strengthened and encouraged by these words.
7/7/2020
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land
Our nation turning back to God needs to happen! It starts with Christians. We need to live the way we are called to live. Be an example of God’s love, grace and mercy. Put other’s needs ahead of our own. Be the example we want to see and others and share the Love of Christ with those around us. Start small to change ourselves and our nation.
7/4/2020
John 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
I am blessed and beyond thankful for the freedoms I have living in the United States of America. However, the greatest freedom there is given by my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Because of His sacrifice and my decision to accept His gift of salvation I am free from the penalty of my sin!
7/3/2020
Exodus 20:3 “You shall have no other gods before me.
A reminder to us of how important that we keep our relationship with God first and foremost in our life! It is more important than our relationship with our spouse and kids. Those relationships won’t be what they should if God isn’t first in our lives!
7/1/2020
Mathew 4:10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”
Is there something in your life that you are letting be a god? Is there something more important to you than your relationship with God? There shouldn’t be!
6/29/2020
John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
You hear people say, “I hope I will get to Heaven when I die because I think I have been a good person.” Or maybe the have other reasons why they think they have a “chance.” The Bible is very clear, the only way to Heaven is by accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior! When we surrender our lives to Him and Trust in Him we take the one and only way that is available! Trust in Jesus, not your works or good deeds!
6/25/2020
Matthew 4:7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
To really understand what this verse means you need to go read Exodus 17. You see how the Israelites “tested” God. When you read it you will probably see there are times we test God without even realizing it.
6/22/2020
1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
We had our high school graduation today. It made me think of this verse. When graduates start this new part of their life they can go different directions based on their decisions. I pray they realize no matter their age they can still be used by God and live a life that glorifies Him.
6/20/2020
Mathew 4:4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Jesus shows us a picture of total surrounding and trusting His father. It is an example of what we as Christians should strive to live out every day. Today will you choose to live out your will or God’s will for you?
6/16/2020
John 5:30 I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will.
What do we strive to do, carry out our will and desires or the will of God for our life? This is a question we should ask ourselves every day in the morning and answer honestly for the day in the evening.
6/15/2020
1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
How fast we are to make snap judgements based on what we see from a person before we really know and understand that person. We need to be more like the Lord and not let someone’s appearance determine what we think.
6/13/2020
Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
If only we could see one another the way that Jesus sees us.
6/11/2020
Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
How often can we say that this is the way that we try to talk to other people? I know I am guilty of no approaching my conversations this way.
6/10/2020
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Reading this verse, I believe a lot of people could stand to follow what it says right now. There are a lot of things being said that are more about tearing people down. I hate to see what is going on in our country and want to see the rhetoric change.
6/9/2020
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
Baptism is a beautiful picture of this verse. The old person we are is dead and buried and we are risen a new person in Christ. This actually happens when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior but the baptism is a public announcement of the change and a celebration with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
6/8/2020
Romans 6:3-5 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. 5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.
A baptism should be a celebration of someones new life in Christ! The symbolic meaning of it is a powerful picture of what Jesus did for us and what happens to us spiritually when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. It is also symbolic of the future for all Christians.
6/7/2020
John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Devotional – Defeated or Victorious
6/4/2020
Judges 6:12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”
We read this and already think of Gideon as a mighty warrior because we know who the story turns out but what is often overlooked it what Gideon himself says a few verses later in verse 15 “…My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” Gideon would never have described himself as mighty he had been defined differently. The things is, the world doesn’t define us, our mistakes don’t define us, if we are saved then God defines us!
6/1/2020
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation — whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life — of whom shall I be afraid?
Life doesn’t always go the way we hope it will. Sometimes it is hard and hurts. These are two very true statements but we need to remember who is in control and who hold our life in their hands!
5/30/2020
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
This verse reminds me of the hope I have in Jesus Christ. Not a hope as we think of hope but the greek word means promise. God has promised those who accept Him as their Lord and Savior a future, eternity with Him. The plans he has for us don’t always make sense and may not be what we think they should be but they are for our best and they are with the scope of eternity in mind!
5/29/2020
Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
A verse of encouragement to remind us that no matter what we are going through right now if we are saved we have something so much greater to look forward to. The difficult trip and journey we are on will be worth it when we are finally home and
5/27/2020
John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
Today is a day when we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I have always had the utmost respect for those who join our military knowing they are putting their life on the line for our freedoms. Now that my son-in-law is in the Army it brings the sacrifices that are made by out soldiers and their families even closer to home. Today I remember those we gave their life so I have the freedom to publish what I do on this site and I support our soldiers who continue in their footsteps. God Bless You All!
5/25/2020
1 Peter 4:2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
This verse shows us the two choices we have every day in our life; will we live for God or will we live for our fleshly desires? The choice is ours, what will you choose?
5/22/2020
Numbers 6:24-25 The Lord bless you and keep you; 25 the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
I can’t believe it has been eight years since I lost my friend and mentor Bob Bethell. I appreciate so much the opportunity he gave me to start preaching God’s word and will never forget the wisdom he shared with me. Bob closed each service with this verse. I ask that you lift up his family today. Until we meet again my friend.
5/20/2020
James 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
We need to ask ourselves every day, am I moving nearer to God or am I moving away from Him? What are you doing that is causing you to move away and what can you do to move nearer?
5/18/2020
Romans 12:6-8 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
What has God blessed you with? What are the gifts and talents you have? You didn’t get them on your own, you were given them by God with a purpose of using them to glorify Him and point others towards Him. How can you glorify Him with your talents today and everyday?
5/15/2020
Romans 12:1 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
Give all that you are to God. Do you do what you do for your own glory or to glorify Him? After all he has done for us we should be willing and excited to serve Him in whatever way we can.
5/14/2020
Proverbs 22:6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
As parents the most important thing we can do is live a life that points them to Christ. We should be a living example of the love of God for us and for our children and live in a way that is pleasing to Him.
5/12/2020
Philippians 1:20 For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die.
What a powerful verse and what a goal to strive to live out. To be able to live a life that honors and glorifies God and be bold for Christ! Strive today to be bold and never ashamed!
5/9/2020
1 Corinthians 12:4-6 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
Different, different gifts, different service, different work but all for on purpose for the work of God. We are all different but we can all be used to do the work of God, to glorify Him and to point others to Him! We are different but we are all working for the same God!
5/8/2020
1 Peter 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
Yep, you have some gift that God as blessed you with! Even if you don’t think you have, there is something God has gifted you with. Now figure out how you can use to bless other.
5/7/2020
Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
What is it that hinders you? What is it in your life that is weighing you down? Throw it off! Get away from it and have nothing to do with it. Remove it completely from your life no matter how difficult that may be. Stop letting it be what keeps you from running the race God has for you to run!
5/6/2020
James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
I think about all that God blesses us with and I wonder how we use it. Do we use it for our own good and glory or do we use it to glorify God and impact others around us for Him?
5/4/2020
Luke 12:27 “Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
The last two days my family has spent time outside on a Family Field Trip and just enjoyed the beauty of this amazing world God has created. There is so much beauty around us that we overlook and take for granted. Get out and enjoy the amazing creation of our God.
5/2/2020
1 John 1:8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.
I am a sinner saved by grace who still struggles with sin in my life. Every day is a battle to trust in God completely and not let satan use whatever you struggle with to pull you away from living the life Christ has for you!
4/29/30
1 Samuel 12:16 “Now then, stand still and see this great thing the Lord is about to do before your eyes!
I wonder how many things we miss that the Lord is doing in our lives because we never take the time to look at His hand at work in our lives. During this time when things have slowed down for many of us I know it has helped me see how blessed I am and what the Lord is doing in my life right now.
4/28/2020
Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
When you think about the people Jesus was saying this to they weren’t trained ministers or long time educated in scriptures. They were common people, some who had made mistakes, that God used to spread His word far and wide. He can use you too!
4/27/2020
John 13:17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
If is a pretty powerful word in this verse. Many Christians know a lot more than we do. It is good to know what the Bible says, but what really matters is that we put it into practice!
4/24/2020
Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
As followers of Christ this verse tells us three things we need to be ready to do. First we need to put the Lord’s will above our own! Jesus gave us a wonderful example of that! We also have to take up our cross, which means we understand we may face suffering and hard ships because we are Christians. Lastly we are to follow him. When I read that I think of following the example Jesus gave us when he was on earth. We should live like Jesus.
4/23/2020
Hebrews 13:5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have,because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Isn’t this a difficult verse to live out. Be content with what you have, is something I am guessing all of us have struggled with at one time or another. I know for me this time of being under a stay at home order changes the way I look at things and their importance. I am very very blessed and there is no reason I shouldn’t be content! Especially knowing how much Jesus loves me and has done for me!
4/21/20
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
We are heading in one of two directions. We are either heading towards Christ or away from Christ. Satan does all he can to get us to turn away from Christ. Maybe it is time you make a U-Turn and turn back to Christ today!
4/20/20
Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
I was reading this today and the first part of verse twenty stood out to me, “teaching the to obey everything I have commanded you.” One of the best ways to teach anything is to model it. To show other people how to do it and what it looks like. For Christians this stand true. We shouldn’t just be saying do this don’t do that we should be living a life that shows it!
4/17/2020
2 Corinthians 5:7 For we live by faith, not by sight.
Reading this verse I have to ask myself is this true. Do I live by faith? Do I trust God completely or do I not. I do struggle at times to trust Him and His plan completely. I pray that if you struggle with this, like I do, that we will give God today and every day!
4/15/2020
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.
Just a few days after we celebrate Jesus resurrection we should set our focus on Jesus’ return. Jesus loved everyone enough to die for them. Do we love Him enough in return to tell others the Good News! I pray we are able to share what Christ has done for us with others!
4/14/20
John 21:17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.
Peter denied be with Jesus three times but yet he was still received back by Jesus. Not only that but Jesus used him in amazing ways to build His church. No matter what you have done Jesus can still use you to do his work.
4/13/2020
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.
Things are different this year. We don’t get to have our Sunrise Service at the Three Crosses. There is no breakfast at the church following. However, none of that changes the fact that our Savior is Risen!
4/12/2020
John 19:30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
IT IS FINISHED! So powerful are the words Jesus spoke! The word used in greek is tetelestai and it means paid in full. Our debt for our sin is something we can never pay on our on but on the cross Jesus paid it for everyone! Easter is my favorite season because what Jesus did for us gives us the opportunity to spend eternity with Him! May God Be Glorified!
4/11/2020
Luke 23:43 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
I can’t believe that Easter is just a free days away. When I read this verse it helps me see how much Jesus truly loves us! For Him to forgive the very people who are crucifying Him is a love so true and so powerful. The sad part is that we struggle to forgive people who do so much less to us! Is there someone that you need to forgive as Christ has forgiven you? Pray about it and reach out to them today!
4/9/2020
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
Man isn’t this verse the truth! I don’t think any of us had plans to be under quarantine at this point in spring. But here we are. Often times we make plans that we think are best for us but the Lord has something else in mind. It doesn’t always make sense and isn’t always easy but we need to remember that God is in control!
4/7/2020
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Remember this! You have a purpose and a reason! Pretty amazing that God has things waiting for us to do! I pray that we are prepared for them, recognize them and respond to them when the time comes!
Sermon – Not The Main Character
4/6/2020
Mark 6:31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Do you every take some time and just get away to get some rest? Here we see Jesus doing just that with His disciples. It is important we take time for ourselves to rest and recharge.
4/3/2020
Psalm 42:1 As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.
Water is so important to all of us including animals. It is a necessity. That is the same way our life should be toward God. It should be a necessity for us to pursue God and to know Him more!
4/1/2020
Psalm 103:2 Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits
A great way to overcome discouragement is to count your blessings. I challenge you to write down three blessings you have in your life every day for two weeks. I promise you that you won’t have any trouble coming up with them each day! Be encouraged by all the God has done in your life!
Sermon – Dismiss Discouragement
3/30/20
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Discouragement is something that we can all struggle with from time to time. One of the best things we can do to battle discouragement is to spend time in God’s Word. With the extra time so many of us have now I pray we make time to connect with God through His word.
Sermon – Dismiss Discouragement
3/29/2020
Matthew 8:28 The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”
Last week I preached on this passage and reading this verse I wish that I could be more like the winds and the waves, better at obeying my Lord and Savior! One of my favorite quotes is incomplete obedience is complete disobedience. The wind and waves didn’t calm down a little, they calmed down completely! Lord help me be more and completely obedient.
3/28/20
2 Corinthians 4:17 For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!
When I read this verse I am reminded that what we are dealing with now is just a speak of sand compared to the eternity that awaits us! How wonderful to be able to look to our eternal future with hope!
3/27/2020
Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
We live in a world where people are filled with fear, especially right now. I pray that people will look to Jesus when they are facing fear. He is able to give us peace and hope that this world can not offer us!
3/26/2020
2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
How are you feeling today? Timid? Afraid? Fearful? Remember we have the power of the Holy Spirit alive inside of us! We may be facing some hard and difficult times but we can face them knowing that God is in control!
3/24/2020
Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
During this time when a lot of us are filled with fear we need to quit focusing on the fear and seek after Christ. We need to spend time in prayer, reading our Bible and studying. In pursuing Him we will change our focus from fear to Christ!
3/23/2020
Matthew 8:26 He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.
What is it going to be today is it going to fear or faith?
3/22/2020
Proverbs 27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring
The craziness that is going on in our world right now reminds us how true this verse is. We never know what the next day will hold or how quickly our circumstances can change. We need to grab each day the Lord gives us and produce fruit that points others to Him!
3/21/2020
Isaiah 61:10 I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Recently it hasn’t seemed like there is a lot to rejoice in but we always have a reason. That reason is our Lord and Savior and the wonderful gift of salvation He has given us! Even during these difficult and challenging times we can rejoice knowing we are made righteous by the blood of Jesus!
3/20/2020
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
This is a powerful verse that is hard to live out especially with everything that is going on right now but as Christians we have a peace knowing that God is in control and that we can trust in Him through this time of uncertainty.
3/17/2020
Matthew 7:24-27 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fail, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, ad the winds blew and beat against the house, and it fell with a great crash.”
This verse is the story of my life! Much of my adult life I was not building on the foundation of Jesus Christ! Because of that, when the storms of life came I was not able to withstand them. I thank God for his forgiveness and giving us another chance to build our life on Him.
3/12/2020
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
If you are saved you are made new! Leave the old in the past. Don’t let the mistakes you have made weigh you down and keep you from being the new person you should be. Be the new you God wants you to be.
3/10/2020
2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
This verse is a great reminder of who are real enemy is, satan. It isn’t the people that sin against us or do us wrong. We need to follow the instructions in this passage and be gentle with them, speak the truth of God’s word to them and do what we can to help them escape the control the devil has over them. That often includes patience, forgiveness and love, all things Christ has given us
3/9/2020
Matthew 24:4 Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you.
As Christians it is so important that we know what the Bible tells us and what God’s plans are. When we know we can spot those who are false teachers or even worse those who claim to be the Messiah. We have to know them so we can avoid them and help others avoid them to!
3/6/2020
Job 8:13-14 The same happens to all who forget God.The hopes of the godless evaporate. Their confidence hangs by a thread.They are leaning on a spider’s web.
Wow what a powerful image this is! If you are not trusting in God, if your faith is not in Him alone then it is like you are learning on a spider web. Good luck with that! I don’t think your going to get much support from it but that is what you are expecting when you put your trust in the world and in yourself. Trust in God completely and lean on His everlasting strength!
3/5/2020
Micah 7:7 But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
What a wonderful thing to know that we have a God who hears our prayers! A God who we can trust in and depend on no matter what we are going through. I know there have been times in my life I wish I had waited on the Lord and didn’t but never have I waited on Him and wish I hadn’t!
3/4/2020
Acts 17:27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.
I love the visual of this verse! We should be chasing after Christ, pursuing Him passionately but also knowing that we don’t have to go far because He is always close waiting on us to come to Him! Pursue Him today and everyday!
3/2/2020
Mark 5:36 But Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid. Just have faith.”
Just have faith! We say we believe in Jesus and we know He is real but we don’t grab on to the promises and commands He gives us in scripture. Instead we let the world fill us with fear when we read over and over again not to fear. I pray if you are living with fear any our life that you will stop letting it control you and live out your faith by trusting in God!
2/28/2020
1 John 3:18 Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. (NLT)
As Christians we are supposed to love others, even our enemies. We can say we do but do our actions prove it? Does the love we have for others become revealed by the way we treat them? I pray that we love on others today the way Christ has called us to!
2/27/2020
2 Corinthians 5:20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.
This verse just reminded me how important is to remember that we are to be out there furthering the work of Christ! I pray today you get a chance to move the cause for Christ forward by sharing Him with others!
2/26/2020
Psalm 34:1 I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
This verse comes from my wife’s favorite psalm. Oh how I was I was able to live this verse out all the time. To be able to lift up the Lord’s name and praise Him all the time. Sometimes when I deal with personal struggles I don’t praise Him I get upset with Him and wrestle with Him. I pray the next time I start to feel that way I will praise Him!
2/25/2020
Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Go! Make Disciples! If you are winding what God wants you to do today, this would be one of those things! Look for opportunities to share Him with other people! It will be the best thing you can every do for them!
2/24/2020
Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
I love the unity this verse shows in Christ. As Christians we need to remember that we are one body united through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Our world is so caught up in what makes us different but the most important thing is what can make us the same, being the children of God. Share this truth and the truth of God’s love for everyone with someone today!
2/21/2020
Psalm 143:8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.
What a powerful verse this is! A reminder to us that the love of God will never fail us! His love for us is constant and unchanging now matter what! Because of that, we can trust our life in Him completely, everything we are. What stand out to me thought is when I read “Show me the way I should go.” It is great that we ask that question of the Lord but often times we don’t take the way that we “should.” God does show us the way we should go but it isn’t always the way we choose to go. We like our way better! I pray today we trust Him completely and take His word for the way to go today and every day!
2/20/20
2 Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
Man if this verse isn’t so true I don’t know what is! People don’t want to accept the Bible as it is, they say it is “old” and doesn’t apply to today. They want to hear what they want to hear not what they need to hear. As Christians we need to make sure they hear the truth and are not being misled by false teaching.
2/18/2020
Galatians 5:13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
When we are saved it isn’t to be used as a get out of sin free pass that allows us to live however we want and then ask God to forgive us so we can keep doing it over and over. There should be a true change in our life that is reflected by not wanting to sin and striving not to. We should also be focusing on loving on other people, meeting the needs they have in their life rather than sinning to meet what we think our needs in our own.
2/17/2020
Romans 16:17-18 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.
It is very important that we know what to look for in false teachers. They aren’t just something of the past. False teachers are busy doing the work of satan today!
2/14/2020
Romans 15:4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
As a junior high math teacher I know that just because a kid has a math book doesn’t mean they are learning math. The have to open the book, study what is in the book and do the work that is required to truly understand and apply it. It is the same with our Bibles. Just because we have a bible and maybe open it once a week on Sunday doesn’t mean that we are learning what we need to from it! Open the word of God today and learn more about Him!
2/13/2020
Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
As we live in this dark world that is full of sin how wonderful it is to know that the word of God can light the way we are to walk. It is an illuminated GPS that shows us the right way to live and navigate this world. If we have mess up and make a mistake knowing and living His word can get us back on track! I pray you take some time today, and every day, to study the Bible so it can guide you!
212/2020
Psalm 119:15-16 I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. 16 I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.
Precepts isn’t a word we use very often but it means commands. We should be studying God’s word so we know what he is commanding us to do. I want to live the way God wants me to so the last thing I can do is neglect studying the Bible!
2/11/2020
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
As I prepare to go to a funeral today it is always hard. It brings death to our mind and the pain and suffering family and friends face at the death of someone they love and will miss. However, I can not imagine what it must be like for those who do not know Christ. Where is there hope? Where is their peace? There is no hope or peace outside of Christ! I thank God for his free gift of salvation that gives those who receive a
2/7/2020
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
I heard this verse so many times because my son Caleb was in Awana’s. The Awana name comes from this verse, “Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed.” Caleb learned it in KJV which “Study to shew(show) thyself approved unto God.” It is interesting to me one version starts with “study” and the other with “do your best.” The best way we can do our best to be approved workers of Jesus is to study His word and live it out! Know the truth and live the truth!
2/6/2020
Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
This last weekend one of my students and basketball players lost his nephew in a tragic accident. My heart has been breaking for him and his family during this difficult and painful time. I would ask you to take a moment and pray for comfort and peace for the Schweizer family today and in the days, weeks and months to come!
2/5/2020
1 Corinthians 10:11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.
The things that are in the Bible are there are to help us live the way we are supposed to live! People always say I wish life came with instructions or a blueprint. The Bible is a blueprint of what we should and shouldn’t do, how we should live. This being the case we need to make sure we are spending time reading the Bible! I pray you make time today to spend time learning from the examples that are in the Bible for us.
2/4/2020
Psalm 119:76 May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.
I love the phrase “unfailing love.” Christ love for us is always and forever! I pray that each of you can find comfort today in whatever you are dealing with knowing that you are loved with an endless and unfailing love!
2/3/2020
Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be evident to all.
If you have ever seen a little child hold a small rabbit you have seen an example of gentleness. They are so careful in what they do and how they treat the rabbit. They are scared to do anything that might hurt it. How different would our relationships be if we treated everyone in our life with that kind of gentleness?
3/3/18
1 Thessalonians 5:18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
God blesses us and answers our prayers and many times we forget to give him thanks even during these exciting times! Let us make sure that we praise and thank Him for all he does in our life!
1/30/2020
1 Samuel 15:22 But Samuel replied: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.
Saul had not followed the orders God had given him and Samuel lays out a truth for Saul that Christians today need to remember, obedience to the Lord is very important. John Maxwell is quoted as saying “Most Christians are educated way beyond their level of obedience.” Put the things you know into action by being obedient to God!
1/29/2020
Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Living the way the Lord calls us to is hard! We face a lot of challenges and difficulties. We are told in this passage though that we should continue to work hard during these times and not allow ourselves to become weary or spiritually tired. Keep working, keeping pushing on, don’t give up! God will work it out and be glorified through it!
1/27/2020
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Being commanded to do something closes all the loop-holes that we would typically use to not do things. There are some pretty strong commands here but as Christians having the Spirit of God alive in us provides us all we need to be strong, courageous, not afraid and not discouraged! If you are saved, remember you are not alone, the power of God is with you today and every day!
1/24/2020
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Putting our trust in God can fill us with joy and peace even when things aren’t going the way we want them to. We can know that He is in control and use those times to let our joy and hope impact others around us who may know we are going through a difficult time.
1/23/2020
Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
It is hard when plans don’t go the way we want it to. The problem is we want things a certain way instead of wanting what Christ wants for us. When we give our life, decisions and plans to Him he leads us in a way far better than our own!
1/22/2020
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Sometimes in life things don’t go the way we want or expect them to. It is during these times we have to trust in the our Lord and Savior knowing that He has our future in His hands and his plans are always better than ours!
1/20/2019
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes
We need to remember that the devil is constantly after us and trying to tear us down! Sometimes we forget that we are constantly under attack and need to be alert and making sure we do not let the devil get his foot in the door of our life in any way!
1/16/2020
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
To often we think we have to be strong we have to stand on our own. We forget we have the power of the Holy Spirit alive in us. He will be our strength and our power of we just rely on Him instead of trying to do it ourselves!
1/15/2020
2 Timothy 2:4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.
As a Christian soldier we should be focused on living a Godly life and following His orders. We often let ourselves get distracted and lose focus on what is really important! We focus on our wants and needs instead of following the commands He gives us in His words.
1/14/2019
2 Timothy 2:3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
My goal this year is to be a soldier for Christ! I know that means suffer will come but it won’t be because of my bad choices or decisions it will be because I will be willing to step out of my comfort zone and share the gospel with those who need to hear it! Will you join my in suffering for the gospel just as Paul did?
1/13/2020
1 Peter 3:8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.
ALL OF YOU! Yep that includes me and you! I look at what Peter says we should be and I know that I have room for improvement in all of those areas. It seems like Christians have it hard enough but we often time beat down each other. It is time for Christians to be like minded and to live out these words to one another!
1/10/2020
Psalm 96:3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
Do you tell people just how wonderful God is? Do you tell them about the wonderful things he has done in your life? We are to share his “marvelous deeds” to everyone! He is what we should boast about, He is what we should be excited to share with other people. Not our promotion or other things we do but what He has and is doing!
1/9/2020
Romans 15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had,
I love how this verse tells us some of the things that God gives us. He gives us endurance and encouragement, something we all need at times but most importantly when we are dealing with other people. It is hard to treat people the way Jesus did unless we have endurance and encouragement. Are there people who you need to treat like Christ would but have had a hard time doing? Pray for God to empower you to be able to do it.
1/8/2020
Proverbs 11:25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
It seems like during the Christmas season people are more generous, giving to non-profits and to people in need. Part of me wonders why the farther we get away from Christmas the less we do this? These people still need our help through out the year and if we are capable of helping them then we should!
1/7/2020
Romans 10:17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
If we want others to experience saving faith by the grace of Jesus Christ we need to share the message with them! I hope in 2020 that I and others will be more courageous in sharing the Good News with others! Pray that God will give you the opportunity and then prepared
1/6/2020
1 Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them–yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.
Because of the grace of God I am what I am, a sinner saved by grace who has forgiveness and hope! Because of that I should be striving to live the way he has called me to live! His grace gives me the power to do it!
1/4/2020
Matthew 3:8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.
Everyone produces some kind of fruit. Our choices, actions, behavior and words produce something that others see. The question is what kind of fruit am I producing? Does my fruit look different than it did before I knew the Lord? Does my fruit show that I have repented of my sin and am living a life God has called me to live?
1/3/2020
Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
I read this verse and I think about throwing of the sins and mistakes of the last year, starting fresh and new with a new day and new year. The best way to do that is to focus on Jesus going into this year and making Him our passion and our purpose! The race we run this year should glorify Him!
1/1/2020
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
We think that our weakness is a bad thing. We think that because we aren’t strong enough to endure things we encounter in our life it means that something is wrong with us. What we need to understand is that we aren’t made to face these challenges and difficulties alone! We are made to face them with God and the power of His grace alive in us! Start the coming year off feeling strong and empowered by God’s grace, it is enough!
12/28/2019
Luke 2:17-18 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
The shepherds are an example for each Christian. We should be spreading the word about what Christ has done for us! Sharing the change our salvation means for us now and for eternity!
12/26/2019
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Merry Christmas! I am so thankful for the time I got to spend with family and friends today. My prayer is that people think about Jesus as much during this coming year as they do during Christmas!
12/25/2019
2 Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
I can not thank God enough for the first and greatest Christmas gift ever, his Son Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior!
12/24/2019
Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Do you every just feel exhausted? Like you can’t go any further or do anything else? Do you feel like Satan has been chasing after you every waking minute? Give it over to God! Learn about Him and the promises He gives! Only through Him can you find true rest!
12/20/2019
Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
This is such a hard thing to do because our natural response and the complete opposite. However, with the power of the Holy Spirit we can do it! Maybe there is someone who has hurt you and there is a major wedge between you now. Christmas time is such a great time to reach out and bless that person in some way and do all you can to heal the broken relationship!
12/18/2019
Proverbs 31:10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
I thank God that my dad found a wife who is worth far more than rubies! Today is my Mom’s Birthday! I am so lucky to have been raised by a Godly woman who loves the Lord, her husband, children and especially her grandchildren! She is truly an amazing woman and I wish every kid could have a mom as great as mine! Thank you Lord for choosing her as mine!
12/17/2019
John 13:35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Does “EVERYONE” know that you are a follow of Christ? Or does just a group of people you spend time with on Sunday? We need to always be loving others even when it is hard, even when they don’t deserve it and even if it requires us to sacrifice! That is what Christ did for us! Are you easily proven guilty of loving one another?
12/13/2019
Matthew 22:39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
Today’s verse follows yesterday. The second command we are to follow is to love your neighbor as yourself! Can you imagine what this would look like if we put this into practice! People have no problem loving themselves but we have trouble loving the people around us especially those who have hurt us or we have had a falling out with. They are still our neighbor and we are still supposed to love them! Who are a few people that you need to start loving around you?
12/11/2019
Matthew 22:37-38 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment.
Yesterday we talked about following God’s commands if we love Him. Well this is the biggie! We are to love the Lord with all that we are and all that we have! We need to put Him first in every area of our life! Verse 38 makes me a little sad that we have to be commanded to Love God after all He has done for us! It should be something that we do because of what He has done for us!
12/10/2019
James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
Christmas is the time of lights. My wife has done a wonderful job of decorating our house with lots of lights. Christmas is also a time for gift giving. What a great reminder to us that God’s gift to us are the best gifts of all!
12/6/2019
Mark 13:10 And the gospel must first be preached to all nations.
Jesus tells us we are to preach the gospel (good news of salvation) to all nations. Now I know what some of you are thinking…”preach” oh I am not a pastor that is not my job. Sorry, it is your job. Preach in greek actually means to proclaim or announce. As Christians we are called to proclaim/announce the good news of salvation to everyone!
12/5/2019
Proverbs 24:10 If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.
We all face adversity from time to time but the real question is how will we respond to it? When facing difficult times I think of a kite, will the wind of adversity cause me to come crashing down or will it lift me higher and closer to my Lord and Savior?
11/4/2019
Proverbs 22:1 A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
Our name is a precious gift our parents give to us! No matter what they did with it we get a chance every day to make choices and decisions that affect how people think of us and our name. I pray that every day I live in a way that makes people think well when they hear my name but most importantly make them think of Christ!
12/03/2019
2 Corinthians 5:20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.
Posted on this verse a while back in a devotional but read it again yesterday and just reminded me how important is to remember that we are to be out there farthing the work of Christ! I pray today you get a chance to move the cause for Christ forward by sharing Him with others!
11/30/2019
2 Corinthians 4:15 All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
How wonderful to be able to play a hand in people being thankful to Christ! When we share the grace of God with others and help lead them to Him we see people find the greatest reason to be thankful, a personal relationship with Christ!
11/27/2019
1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Giving thanks to God isn’t something we should do just once or once a year. Just as he loves us continuously we should be giving thanks to Him continuously. Our “Thanksgiving” should be a daily occurrence not just a holiday we celebrate ounce a year! Celebrate Christ today and the love he has for you as you thank Him for your many blessing!
11/26/2019
Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”
We can either look to science for answers or we can look to God who is the answer! Not saying we shouldn’t study all the things scientist study but we should study, believe and accept God first and foremost!
11/25/2019
Mark 5:18-19 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”
Jesus had healed a demon-possessed man who wanted to go with Jesus but Jesus had a better idea. Go back to where you came from and share your story. Tell others what Jesus has done for you so they too can believe! Are you sharing what Jesus has done for you?
11/22/2019
Matthew 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you
When I read this verse it reminds me how personal and intimate prayer is and should be. Yes there is a time and place for public prayer but when you speak to your best friend about very personal things you usually do it in private. When you have a personal relationship with Christ he wants us to share our private thoughts and needs with Him.
11/21/2019
Matthew 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
Sometimes the prayers we need to say are the hardest ones to say! Maybe there is someone who has hurt you or treated you wrong that you need to pray for. Lift them up in prayer and see how God can work in that relationship!
11/20/2019
Luke 6:12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.
Prayer was such a huge part of Jesus life when he was here on Earth! He spoke with his Father often. If we strive to be like Jesus prayer should be a huge part of our life not just something we do quickly and move on.
11/19/2019
2 Timothy 2:16 Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.
We often forget how powerful out tongue is. Not only to inflect pain and to miss guide others but influence ourselves and allow ourselves to be pulled farther and farther away from the the life God has for us to live! Watch what you say today and use your tongue to point others to Christ and not away from Him!
11/18/2019
Psalm 144:1 Praise the Lord, who is my rock. He trains my hands for war and gives my fingers skill for battle.
Today I woke up to exciting news that my son-in-law made it through preselection for the army special forces! He will start special forces training soon! This is a long time dream of his and I am extremely proud of him. The thing is I am even prouder that he is a part of the Lord’s Army and a wonderful solde
11/15/2019
John 14:16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever
What a wonderful promise Jesus himself gives us! When we are saved we have the power of God with us. No matter where we go he is there to help us! If you are going through something difficult right now remember the Holy Spirit is inside of you!
11/14/2019
Isaiah 6:8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Are you willing to say, “Here am I. Send me!” It doesn’t have to be to a far away missions field it may mean you going across the street or even go to work and share what Jesus has done for you! Go and share what Christ has done for you so God May Be Glorified!
11/12/2019
Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,
Today is a big day, I finally get my first day of school! I am so excited to get to know the new kids and be back around the kids I know and love. God is good and I thank Him for getting me to this point! The road of Sarcoidosis is still a long one ahead of us but this is a big first step in beating it! I appreciate the prayers, love and support! Please keep the prayers coming for health and strength over the next several months! God Bless!
11/11/2019
Mark 16:15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
Have you ever wondered what you would do if Jesus showed up and said lets go to lunch. Then at lunch he told you there was something he wanted you to do. Would you do it? The Bible is God’s love letter written to you. In Mark 16:15 we read go and preach. That is what Jesus is telling you and I to do! I pray today you answer the call and share the gospel with someone!
11/8/2019
Romans 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile”
As Christians we can not be ashamed or afraid to share the gospel! We are told through out the Bible to fear not and being ashamed is not doing something out of fear. The gospel is the saving power that everyone needs to hear about and know so they have a chance to believe! We can’t let fear of rejection, humiliation or embarrassment keep us from sharing the good news!
11/6/2019
James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
We can study the Bible we can listen to preaching. We can know a lot about what the Bible says but if we don’t actually live it out and do what it tells us to do we are totally wasting it. Study and know the Bible but then live it out daily and show the Bible through your life!
11/5/2019
Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
“be constant in prayer.” No matter what you are going through we should be praying. We often forget that prayer isn’t a formal event. Prayer is interacting with God. Prayer is interacting with our best friend. May you be constant in your prayer no matter what you are going through!
11/4/2019
Acts 16:25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.
This verse has always been interesting me for two reasons. The obvious is the amazing faith Paul and Silas had to be singing while in prison! Talk about glorifying God in our struggles! The other part of the verse that is interesting is that people are always watching and listening, often times even more when we go through our struggles! Ask yourself today, “What do people see in me when I go through hard times and does it point them to God or turn them off?”
10/31/2019
Psalm 62:8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
This seems hard for us to do because of the word “all.” We need to trust in Christ completely and fully all the time! As I age and go through some health trials I am learning more and more how to trust and depend on Him! I love being able to take refuge in Him during the good and difficult times!
10/30/2019
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
A great verse to remind us how much Jesus loves us. When he says “come to me” he is offering an invitation. The verse says who is invited…all. No matter what you are struggling with no matter how life has weighed you down you can come to Christ! When you do he can remove the penalty of sin and give you new hope so you can rest knowing your sins are forgiven and your eternity is secure!
10/29/2019
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
There have been times I have wished that life, marriage and parenting came with an instructional manual. The things is God gives us an instructional manual for all areas of our lives. It is called the Bible! Spend time in God’s word today and have what you need for life and to do the things God is calling you to do!
10/28/2019
Psalm 3:5-6 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
God continues to bless you with another day, what are you doing to take advantage of it? Are you letting fear keep you from doing things that glorify God even if they go against the world.
10/24/2019
James 3:5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
We need to remember how powerful are words can be in building someone up but in also tearing someone down! Choose your words carefully and think about the impact they will have!
10/23/2019
Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
What is it that is weighing you down? What has you tangled up and hinders you from running the way God intends you to? Is there a sin that you continue to struggle with? Is there guilt or shame that you carry from your past? Give it all to God, repent and move forward without the weight of your past weighing you down!
10/22/2019
Ephesians 2:4-5 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.
I am so thankful for the Love of God! His gift of salvation is the most wonderful thing there is and I didn’t deserve or earn it he offers it freely to those who trust in Him!
10/21/2019
Luke 11:28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
We can read the bible, listen to preaching and learn what the Bible says but what is really important is that we put it into practice. Live out the word of God today!
10/17/2019
James 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
This verse tells us there are two steps we need to take to get the devil to leave us alone. Some of us try to resist the devil without fully submitting to God. We don’t let Him be the Lord of our life and then we wonder why we have such a hard time resisting the devil. Submit every area of your life to the Lord today!
10/15/2019
John 15:20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.
We often forget that persecution is still taking place in our world today. Thousands of Christians are persecuted and many killed throughout our world. I hope that you will add these brothers and sisters in Christ to your prayers and check out a wonderful organization that is working to help those being persecuted… https://www.persecution.com/
10/11/2019
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Our purpose in life is to do the things God has created us to do! Things that glorify Him and point others to Him! Things that help us grow to become more like Him! These things often times aren’t easy but they are our purpose and should become our passion!
10/10/2019
1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us.
The way this verse is written it is just a given that we love others. The problem is that isn’t always the case. I pray that today you have the opportunity to love on someone who is in need or hurting. Let the love God has for you overflow and pour out on them!
10/9/2019
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
How wonderful to know we have a God who is always the same. He is who He has always been and will always be! The one we trust in we can depend on always being the same no matter what we face and what we go through! That fact should give us peace daily!
10/8/2019
Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
The greek word for money can mean not only money but possessions. It seems like people get so caught up in making more money or having more stuff. We become servants to money! Our lives, decisions and choices are driven by something other than what
Christ wants for our life. I pray we strive to serve God and not the “stuff” of life!
10/7/2019
Philippians 1:19 For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance.
I appreciate so much the many prayers people have been lifting up for me with my health challenge I have been facing. I know that God is walking with me and working all of this for His good and I will glorify Him through it!
10/5/2019
Psalm 25:5 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
What a great way to start your day off by praying for God to lead you through your day and teach you something new each day! Spend time in His word and allow Him to speak to you. Then throughout the day you can know He is with you and helping you grow in that area of your life.
10/2/2019
Psalm 9:10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
As a start a new week I pray that you trust in the Lord. This week may bring trials, difficulties or setbacks but remember that God will never leave you and will walk through the hard times with you! Take time to seek after Him today through prayer as well as reading and studying His word.
9/30/2019
Philippians 4:12-13 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 is a verse that is often taken out of context. Some translations say, “I can do all things.” Too often people think this verse applies to being able to succeed at anything. I can make it to the NBA because of God’s strength in me. That sounds great unless you are 5’4, slow, can’t jump or shoot. This verse needs to be looked at in regards to the context it is in. I love what the NIV translation says, “I can do THIS through him who gives me strength.” The question then is what is the “this” Paul is referring to. Look back at verses 11-12. He is talking about being content in any and every situation. We can be content through Christ! No matter where you are in your life or what you may be going through, contentment is available when we put Christ first in our life!
9/27/2019
Philippians 4:11 – “I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself.”
An easy verse to read, but a verse very difficult to live out! Can you say today in the circumstance you are in right now that you are content (peacefully happy)? If you can’t then maybe you need to turn it over to Jesus in prayer.
9/25/19
Proverbs 4:26 Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.
“I fly by the seat of my pants” is a quote that some people say. They just go and react to what is happening in their life. This Proverb tell us that we should give careful thought to our paths. We need make choices to walk the path the way God wants us to and live according to his word. Don’t let the things of this world pull you off course!
9/24/2019
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
God is enough! His love, His grace, His mercy is enough for everyone! Even though you may be going through a difficult time you can find strength in the power of Christ!
9/23/2019
1 Timothy 4:13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.
Paul is writing to Timothy telling him how important it is to read and teach the scriptures to the people he was working with. We need to make sure we see the flip side of that and remember how important it is that we attend church and allow ourselves to be taught the scriptures and how we can apply them to our daily lives!
9/17/2019
Philippians 4:9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Sermon – Practice Practice Practice
9/15/2019
Matthew 12:33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.
I love when his verse says a tree is recognized by its fruit. You can look at a tree that is bearing fruit and tell if it is a peach tree, a pear tree or an apple tree. When I think about what that means for me, based on my fruit what do people see when they look at me. I think that is a question we should each ask ourselves and answer honestly.
9/12/2019
Matthew 12:25 Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.
Today we look back at the events of 9/11 that happened eighteen years ago. In the days following these events our country came together, united under God. The farther we have gotten away from that day the farther we have gotten divided as a country and distanced ourselves from Christ. It is amazing when tragedy strikes how we put “stuff” aside and focus on what really matters. I pray as a country that we could stand united under God today and every day.
9/11/2019
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
9/2/2019
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8/31/2019
Isaiah 41:13 For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
What a great visual of God walking beside us and holding our hand as we go through life. I think that should definitely help us live with less fear if we keep that imagine in our mind!
8/30/2019
Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
8/29/2019
Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
We can rejoice as verse 4 of Philippians 4 tells us if we have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. No matter what we are facing we can always rejoice in our salvation. That fact should also lead us to be gentle with other people, putting their needs ahead of our own. Our words and actions should be pointing them to Christ as His return is nearer every day.
8/25/2019
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Sermon – Joy to Gentleness to More!
8/24/2019
Philippians 1:27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel
We need to make sure that we stand firm in Christ so that our life is a testimony to the gospel. What it has done for us and what it can do for others.
8/22/2019
Philippians 4:1 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Sermon – Did He Really Just Say That?
8/21/2019
Psalm 112:7 They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
I need to improve on trusting Him fully! I do not need to fear what may happen because I know God is in control and what happens happens for a reason. I am not belittling anything that people go through, but being able to trust in God helps us as we go through those difficult times.
7/27/2019
Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
I love this verse! It doesn’t just say peace it says perfect peace! It is something we can have and experience if we trust in God completely and fix our minds on Him and Him alone. It is when our minds get off of Him and onto fear and worry that we lose our peace!
7/26/2019
Philippians 3:17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
7/22/2019
Mark 10:45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many.
Two very important things to take from this verse: 1. Jesus died to pay sins ransom so that you can live eternally with Him. All you have to do is to believe in Him, accept Him as your Lord and Savior and trust in Him. 2. Life isn’t about us, it is about what we can do for others! Look for ways to serve someone today!
7/19/2019
Philippians 3:14 I press ontoward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
7/17/2019
Philippians 3:13 Brothers and sisters, 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,
7/15/2019
Psalm 105:1 Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
If you have been saved you have a story! Your story was available because of Jesus story. As Christians we need to let other people know what Jesus did for everyone and how it has impacted you! Share your story with someone today and through it May God Be Glorified!
7/12/2019
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.
This is such a wonderful verse that we should all challenge ourselves with living out! To many times the choices and decisions we make are based on what we think rather than what God tell us! Remember though, it says He will make your paths straight! He doesn’t say they won’t be difficult or have hills and valleys, but they will lead you straight to a closer relationship with Him!
7/11/2019
Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
I heard a singer on K-Love ask, “If all your prayers were answered, how many people would be affected besides you?” A very challenging question we need to remember when we pray! I am sure each of us can think of many different people that need our prayers today. Lift them up throughout the day and every day!
7/09/2019
Psalm 29:11 The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.
I love verses that speak of God’s promises. This verse has two very strong and wonderful promises in it. Through the Holy Spirt we have strength to persevere and endure the things that life throws at us. Knowing this and that God has everything in His power as well as knowing our eternity with Him is secure we can live in peace and not let the things of this world overpower our thinking!
7/6/2019
1 Peter 2:16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves.
We live in a free country. Even though we live in a free country there are things that we can’t and shouldn’t do. The problem is people still do. The same things happens spiritually. When we are saved we are forgiven our sins and are free. That doesn’t mean we are free to sin, it means we should live in a way that our Master the Lord Jesus Christ wants us to live.
7/3/2019
Philippians 3:12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
7/1/2019
2 Peter 1:5-7 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
Devotional – Do Some Addition!
6/28/2019
Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
I hope when you read these daily verses they aren’t just something you read over quickly and then quickly forget! Challenge yourself to memorize them! It is amazing when you memorize God’s word how the Holy Spirit helps you recall them at just the right time to encourage you not to do the wrong thing!
6/26/2019
1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run is such a way as to get the prize.
In life everyone tries to win. We try to be the best at whatever it is we do whether it be sports, work, obtaining material possessions or countless other things. I am amazed at how much time and effort we put into these things compared to how much time they put into following Christ. We should be running for the glory of God not our own glory! Where is your finish line? Is it earthly or heavenly?
6/25/2019
Matthew 6:27 Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
This is something I personally struggle with but am slowly improving on. We can’t let the worry or fear of tomorrow steal our joy of today! A sign of true Christian maturity is not worrying! Trust in God today and enjoy the day you have been given!
6/24/2019
Psalm 62:5 I depend on God alone; I put my hope in him.
6/22/2019
John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
6/21/2019
Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Words are so powerful! We say so many of them we forget how much power our words hold! We can change a person’s mind, attitude or eternity by the things we say! May you choose your words wisely today and use them to impact others for Christ!
6/20/2019
Matthew 22:37 Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind”
Just think for a minute how different your life would be if you lived like this! We “love” so many things but the one thing we should love the most and desire the most is a close personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Spend some time in His word today and talk to Him in prayer! Thank Him for all He is and all He has done! Tell Him how much you love Him and then go out and live out that love to others!
6/19/2019
Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
6/17/2019
James 3:2 Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.
Devotional – Oh Be Careful Little Mouth…
6/15/2019
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Devotional – Oh Be Careful Little Mouth…
6/14/2019
Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
I read this verse and I think how sad it is that there are so many broken friendships and siblings who are at odds. Our friends and family should be people that are always loving and always there for us no matter what! If you are dealing with a broken relationship maybe you need to take the first step of reconciliation and love on the other person.
6/13/2019
Luke 7:32 If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them!
As Christians we are called to love, and love everyone! Not just family and friends, not just people that are easy to love. We are called to love the unlovable, those who are hard or seem impossible to love! After all isn’t that what God did for us?
6/12/2019
Psalm 143:10 – “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on firm footing.”
A great prayer to start your day! Allow the spirit to lead and direct you so you can learn the will of God.
6/10/2019
James 4:11 Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.
Devotional – It Is Time To Grow Up!
6/8/2019
Matthew 7:3-5 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye
Devotional – It Is Time To Grow Up!
6/7/2019
1 Corinthians 3:2 I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are not yet able,
As Christians we need to remember that we should always be growing in our faith! Many who have been Christians for a long time are still only on the milk and have not matured to solid food. It is time we quit being baby Christians and grow up!
6/6/2019
Matthew 7:1-2 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Seems like so many of us are worthy of the supreme court! When it comes to judging others we are excellent! We notice all their faults and failures and are quick to point them out. The problem is we don’t evaluate ourselves in the same way. We often give ourselves the benefit of the doubt or justify it away. Maybe we need to focus on our own repentance from sin instead of others sins!
6/5/2019
Proverbs 30:8-9 – First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. 9 For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God’s holy name.
So much focus in our society is put on money, how much we make and how we can make more! We should learn to be content with just enough! When our needs are met we are blessed. May we look for ways to bless others with what God gives us!
4/2/18
Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Sermon – You Gotta Know! Part 2
6/2/2019
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Devotional – Strength in the Storm, Literally!
5/31/2019
Psalm 119:2 – Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek after Him with all their heart.
If we seek Him with all of our heart how much easier would it be to keep the commands He gives us? Don’t focus on the what we shouldn’t do, focus on our Lord and Savior and the rest will take care of itself!
5/29/2019
James 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
5/28/2019
Philippians 3:10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,
5/27/2019
John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me
Are you a sheep of God’s? Do you know him? How well do you know Him? When is the last time that you spent time learning about your shepherd?
5/26/2019
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks within himself, so he is.
Devotional – Turn Your Thoughts!
5/25/2019
Jonah 2:7 When I had lost all hope, I turned my thoughts once more to the Lord
Devotional – Turn Your Thoughts!
5/24/2019
Zechariah 10:1 Ask the LORD for rain in the springtime; it is the LORD who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all people, and plants of the field to everyone.
Ok if there is anyone in are area still asking, please stop!
It is so nice to get to enjoy a beautiful evening in the midst of all the rainy ones!
5/22/2019
Job 37:6 He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’
Does He Ever!!!
5/21/2019
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight
This is one of my favorite verses. As I was sitting at a graduation yesterday I was thinking how much I wish I could go back and stress how important this verse is to my 18 year old self. All I can do now is share with others the wisdom held in these words.
5/20/2019
Isaiah 43:18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
As we go through this graduation season we need to remember we aren’t celebrating the end of something as much as we are celebrating a new beginning. To all of those who are graduating look to the future with excitement and anticipation of what God has planned for you. For those of us not graduating, today is a new day and a new opportunity to do the same!
5/17/2019
Psalm 146:1-2 Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, my soul. 2 I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
So many times we forget how blessed we are and how much God has poured out on us. Today look at the blessing God has given you and thank Him and praise Him for it!
5/16/2019
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
5/14/2019
2 Timothy 1:5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
5/13/2019
Proverbs 16:9 “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.”
5/10/2019
Isaiah 30:21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”
5/9/2019
Genesis 9:11 I establish my covenant with you: Never again will all life be destroyed by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth.”
Thought I would try to lighten the mood a little today and remind those who live around me that someday the rain will stop! God promised it!
5/8/2019
Revelations 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Sermon – Help For The Hurting!
5/7/2019
Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Sermon – Help For The Hurting!
5/6/2019
Ecclesiastes 4:10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
Sermon – Help For The Hurting!
5/5/2019
Ecclesiastes 4:12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.
5/3/2019
Matthew 18:20 “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them”
When we face suffering and tragedy in our life we need to not allow ourselves to become isolated and try to go it alone. We need to come together with other Christians to lift each other up and help one another through these painful times. Together with the help of Christ we can go through the valleys of life!
5/2/2019
Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
May we turn to God during the tragedies and difficulties of life. He is the one who can give us real comfort and peace as we go through difficult times and when we feel like there is no where else to turn. Spend time with Him today in prayer and by reading His love letter to us, the Bible.
5/1/2019
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
My heart breaks this morning for those who have been effected by the shootings that occurred in Sterling and Raymond last night. Join me in lifting all of them up in prayer as they go through the pain and hurt caused by this tragedy. My they find comfort, peace and hope in our Lord and Savior.
4/30/2019
Proverbs 14:23 All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.
I thank my dad for helping instill in me the importance of working hard. I hope that we remember today that having a job is a blessing and we should do it to the best of our ability. Work hard in your job and work hard to make God known! May God be glorified in all you do!
4/29/2019
Mark 16:15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
Today at church we had the blessing of having Corenne Smith visit our church. Corenne and her husband Philip have been working to help the children of Brazil for many years know. It was amazing to hear how God has worked in and through there ministry to touch so many lives for Christ.
Check out more about them by clicking on the link below and please add them to your prayer list! https://www.internationalministries.org/author/cp-smith/
4/28/2019
Isaiah 43:2-3 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior
Sermon – Easter – Jesus Blueprint
4/24/2019
1 Peter 2:21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
Sermon – Easter – Jesus Blueprint
4/22/2019
Matthew 28:6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
He is Risen Indeed!
4/21/2019
John 16:22 Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.
This something Jesus said to His disciples on the night he was to be arrested. As I read it I think about how we deal with grief and pain and hard times in life, but for Christian the time of rejoicing is coming! When our Lord and Savior comes again to take us home and we will experience that joy forever!
4/20/2019
James 4:4 You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
4/19/2019
Psalm 34:21-22 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The Lord will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.
4/18/2019
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price.Therefore honor God with your bodies.
Pay attention to the differences between today’s verse and yesterdays.
Sermon – Palm Sunday – Spring Cleaning!
4/16/2019
1 Corinthians 3:16 Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?
Sermon – Palm Sunday – Spring Cleaning!
4/15/2019
Psalm 34:17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.
4/12/2019
Philippians 3:9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.
4/10/2019
Philippians 3:7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
4/7/2019
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
4/5/2019
Psalm 34:15-16 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth.
4/4/2019
Psalm 9:10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
Trust, such a difficult word but something we are called to do in the Bible. People we trust in life often hurt us, disappoint us, and let us down. We can rest easy knowing that Jesus will never do that! He will always be there for us no matter what! Seek him today! Grow closer to him than you were yesterday!
4/3/2019
Philippians 3:3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh
4/2/2019
Philippians 3:1 Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.
4/1/2019
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
3/29/2019
Psalm 34:14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
3/28/2019
Psalm 113:3 From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.
My wife and I disagree over which is better sunrises or sunsets. I am a sunset person and she is a sunrise person. This morning as I was pulling away I could see the start of a beautiful sunrise and it reminded me of how wonderful our God is. We need to be praising Him not just because of the beautiful sunrise and sunsets but because of who He is, what He has done, and what He is going to do! Praise God today in your words and actions and look out for a beautiful sunset tonight!
3/27/2019
Matthew 23:11-12 The greatest among you will be your servant.12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
2/26/2019
Philippians 2:30 he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.
3/25/2019
1 Peter 3:10 For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.
Devotional – Oh Be Careful Little…
3/22/2019
Psalm 34:12-13 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.
Devotional – Oh Be Careful Little…
3/21/2019
Matthew 7:24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practiceis like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
Today is a very special day for my family. Today we sign the papers to buy a home. After we sign the paperwork this afternoon we are going to go to the house and pray. A prayer of thanksgiving and a prayer of blessing on the house. More importantly than have a “new” house though we will be praying that we continue to keep our lives and family built on the rock of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and daily provider!
3/19/2019
1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”
3/18/2019
Philippians 2:19-21 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
3/17/2019
Deuteronomy 11:19 Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
3/15/2019
Psalm 34:11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
3/14/2019
Luke 6:40 The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.
3/12/2019
Philippians 3:14 I press ontoward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
3/11/2019
Deuteronomy 4:29 But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.
3/8/2019
Psalm 34:9-10 Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.
3/7/2019
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 13 and to observe the Lord’s commandsand decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?
I often hear people wonder, and wonder myself, what is it that God wants me to do with my life. Well This doesn’t answer the question I know they are asking completely as we often want to know what job to take or where to move to but these two verse are pretty clear in stating what the life of a Christian should be focused on doing first and foremost!
3/6/2019
John 11:25-25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?
Something that we as Christians need to remember! We need to remember the promise and hope we have of eternal life and we need to remember the importance for us to share the gospel with other so they do not face eternal death, separation from God.
3/4/2019
Luke 6:26-27 “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
Whenever I hear this verse I always wonder what things would be like if every Christian would live this out in there lives. When is the last time you did the things in this verse. Love your enemies? That is a tough one! Do good to those who hate you? Have you ever done that? Bless those who curse you? They are suavely the last people we look to bless. Pray for those who mistreat you! When is the last time you prayed more for someone who was mistreating you more than you prayed for yourself and your own wants and desires? This verse just shows us again how hard following Christ really is and how much it goes against our nature instincts and the way society teaches us to be.
3/3/2019
Jeremiah 15:16 When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.
3/1/2019
Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
2/28/2019
Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
Every feel like this world is throwing everything it can at you? Remember that in Christ we have a shield! He is there in front of us taking on what the world throws at us and guiding our steps through the difficulties we have! If you are having a rough time right now find refuge, hope and peace in our Lord and Savior.
2/27/2019
2 Kings 5:13 Naaman’s servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!”
Sermon – My Way Isn’t The Right Way!
2/26/2019
John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Sermon – My Way Isn’t The Right Way!
2/25/2019
2 Kings 5:13 Naaman’s servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!”
Sermon – My Way Isn’t The Right Way!
2/24/2019
2 Kings 6:16-17 “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” 17 And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
2/23/2019
Psalm 34:7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
2/21/2019
Matthew 28:3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.
Today was a snow day from school, playing in the yard building a snowman and snowball fight with the family. I would say that is a pretty awesome day! When we think about scripture and snow we often go to Isaiah 1:18 (look it up) but today let the snow, if you have some remind you of this wonderful verse in Matthew. It is talking about Jesus after His resurrection! Let the snow remind you of what he did for you out of love, dying on the cross and let it remind you of the power of His resurrection from the dead!
2/20/201
Luke 3:11 John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”
Devotional – 2 Shirts Equals 2 Blessings!
2/15/2019
Psalm 34:6 This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.
Devotional – 2 Shirts Equals 2 Blessings!
2/14/2019
Psalm 25:4-5 Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. 5 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
2/13/2019
Ephesians 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
2/12/2019
Ephesians 5:15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
2/11/2019
Ephesians 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.
2/10/2019
Psalm 127:3 Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.
Today is a very special day. My only daughter turns twenty-one! I can’t believe how fast time flies. Just yesterday she was a 5 lb bundle of joy! Since that day she has brought so much joy to my life. Watching her grow and laugh! I am so proud of all the accomplishments she has but most importantly I am proud of her Love for Christ, her husband and others! I pray that God continues to use her in powerful ways!
2/9/2019
Micah 7:18-19 ‘Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.’
2/8/2018
Psalm 34:5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
2/7/2019
Proverbs 6:9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?
I saw this verse today and had to laugh because I overslept and have been running behind all day. I am one of those that can sleep in for a long long time. I have been trying to do it less and less though as I hate losing part of the day and feeling like I don’t have the time I want or need during the day. Get up, spend some time with God and get your day started off right!
2/6/2019
1 Peter 4:9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
2/5/2019
Philippians 2:15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”[c] Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky
2/4/2019
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
If you are one of your kids was ever in AWANA you probably know this verse. It is the AWANA key verse. My son learned it in KJV so it starts out “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” When is the last time you really spent time studying God’s word. As a teacher I often see kids not study until it is time for the test. For Christians we are daily living the test and need to be daily studying God’s word so we can grow and be able to handle what is right and what is wrong, not just with our knowledge but with your actions.
2/2/2019
Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Today I pray that we seek after Jesus completely. That it be our number one point and passion in life! Seek who He is and who we can be in Him!
Devotional – It’s Progressive!
2/1/2019
Psalm 34:4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Devotional – It’s Progressive!
1/31/2018
1 Timothy 4:7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.
1/30/2019
Philippians 2:14 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
1/29/2019
Philippians 2:13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
1/28/2018
Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
1/27/2019
Deuteronomy 11:18 Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.
Devotional – The Famous Magnifying Glass
1/25/2019
Psalm 34:3 Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!
Devotional – The Famous Magnifying Glass
1/24/2019
Philippians 2:11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Sermon – Here is an Example Part 2
1/22/2019
Philippians 2:10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
Sermon – Here is an Example Part 2
1/21/2019
Philippians 2:9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,
Sermon – Here is an Example Part 2
1/20/2019
Galatians 6:14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
Devotional – Go Ahead And Brag!
1/18/2019
Psalm 34:2 I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Devotional – Go Ahead And Brag!
1/17/2019
2 Kings 19:19 Now, Lord our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone, Lord, are God.”
I pray the things God does in your life are seen by others who can be pointed to Him and know who He is and what He has done!
Sermon – In the Eyes of the Lord
1/16/2019
2 Chronicles 32:7-8 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him.8 With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said.
Sermon – In the Eyes of the Lord
1/14/2019
2 Kings 18:3 He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father David had done.
Sermon – In the Eyes of the Lord
1/13/2019
John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
1/12/2019
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
It doesn’t matter what you are going through can you have a place of comfort in strength by resting on our Lord and Savior! He is always with you no matter what you may be going through! Find peace and strength in His Words, Promises and Presence!
1/10/2019
Luke 6:31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.
This is something almost all of us learn at a very young age, sometimes not even knowing it is in the Bible. We are told time and time again by adults to treat others the way we want to be treated. As we grow older sadly we often forget this lesson we have been taught. What would the relationships in your life be like if you started treating others the way you wanted to be treated? What about the people that come into your life that maybe don’t know Christ and what he can do for them?
1/9/2019
Luke 14:11For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Sermon – Here Is An Example!
1/8/2019
Philippians 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death– even death on a cross!
1/7/2019
Philippians 2:5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus
1/6/2019
1 John 3:17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?
Devotional – Dream, But Do Now!
1/5/2019
Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
1/2/2019
Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
1/1/2019
Jeremiah 29:12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
12/31/2018
Proverbs 31:10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
As this year comes to an end I can’t help but think how blessed I am to have such an amazing and wonderful wife! She is worth more than anything! I love the way she loves me and our kids! If you are blessed like me thank God and thank your wife!
12/30/2018
Matthew 12:38 Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.”
Isn’t this still true today. So many want “proof” that God is real when all they really need to do is look around and see his creation. There is so much that points us to God but still we think we have to see it to believe it, when really faith is the victory!
12/29/2018
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
As we approach the new year it is a reminder to me of the new creation I am and became when I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior. I need to remember that my life needs to be different. I need to live this next year the way He has called me to live and not the way the world says I should!
12/28/2018
Luke 2:19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
Tonight I think about God’s love for me and the sacrifice and made so that I could come into a relationship with Him! I am so thankful for the greatest gift ever given!
12/25/2018
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in[a] Christ Jesus our Lord.
Sermon – Christmas Sermon – Jesus Isn’t The Reason For The Season!
12/24/2018
1 John 3:1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
Sermon – Christmas Sermon – Jesus Isn’t The Reason For The Season!
12/23/2018
1 John 2:1-2 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
As we get closer and closer to Christmas lets us remember that Jesus was born to die as a sacrifices for you and me! What an amazing and wonderful love that is!
12/19/2018
Luke 2:11-12 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Jesus came as a Savior to save us from our sin and as the Messiah to deliver us to God as righteous. The question I have is He the Lord of your life right now? Or have you let something or someone else become what is lord in your life, your job, your relationship, your kids, your money. When we are saved we need to make sure we put Christ first and foremost in our life!
12/18/2018
Luke 2:6-7 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
We think how bad it was that there was no room for Jesus to be born in but do we ever wonder if we are making room for Him in our life? Is there room for Him in our busy schedule and all the things we have going on?
12/17/2018
Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
12/15/2018
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Gabriel & Mary
12/12/2018
Luke 1:31-33 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Gabriel & Mary
12/11/2018
Luke 1:28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Gabriel & Mary
12/10/2018
Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Gabriel & Mary
12/9/2018
Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
12/8/2018
Romans 3:10 As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one;
12/7/2018
Ecclesiastes 7:20 Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does
what is right and never sins.
12/6/2018
John 12:46 I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.
Sunday our family put our Christmas tree and lights up. We have lights outside, lights on the tree, lights other places in the house. Now that they are up, when it is dark outside I like to have them on! Why would we put them up and then not plug them in, that is just crazy. Why when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior would we not change how we live and continue to live in sin and darkness? Sounds crazy but it often happens. We don’t have to live in sin and darkness we are forgiven and have the power of the Holy Spirit to help us live a life in the light of Jesus!
12/5/2018
Matthew 1:20-21 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,[f] because he will save his people from their sins.”
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Joseph
12/4/2018
Lamentations 3:22-23 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.
23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Joseph
12/3/2018
Matthew 1:24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Joseph
12/2/2018
Psalm 40:2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
11/30/2018
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (KJV)
As I sit here tonight this verse came to my mind. I wondered what it would look like if I didn’t go to church every week and I didn’t have to preach every week. I have to study God’s word every week so I can talk about it on Sunday. If I wasn’t the preacher though would I still spend that much time in His word? Going to church is great, and needed but we need to be studying in growing throughout the week too.
11/25/2018
Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Devotional – FFFOOORRREEEVVVEEERRR!
11/24/2018
Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever!”
Devotional – FFFOOORRREEEVVVEEERRR!
11/22/2018
Isaiah 9:7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Isaiah & Jesus
11/19/2018
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Sermon – Christmas Characters – Isaiah & Jesus
11/18/2018
Proverbs 15:9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness.
11/17/2018
Romans 6:13 Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness,but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.
11/16/2018
Mark 9:35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
11/14/2018
Philippians 2:4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
11/13/2018
Philippians 2:3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
11/12/2018
Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
11/11/2018
John 3:3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”
11/8/2018
Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
11/7/2018
Philippians 2:2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
11/5/2018
Philippians 2:1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion,
11/4/2018
Proverbs 12:15 The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
Devotional – I Got This, No I Don’t!
11/3/2018
Proverbs 16:16 How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!
Devotional – I Got This, No I Don’t!
11/1/2018
Proverbs 24:10 If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength!
We all face hard times and trouble in our life. When we do we have a choice, we can let it defeat us or we can battle to defeat it. I am not talking about physical strength but our spiritual strength. Knowing that God is in control and that he will go with you as you face the hardships you are dealing with. He is with you and will never leave you! Be strong and stand firm!
11/1/2018
Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
To often we get caught up in the “stuff” of Christianity instead and of focusing on what really matters….loving others the way that God loves us! We can talk about having faith and being saved but talk is cheap, we need to express that faith by reaching out and loving others. I still love Chip Ingram’s definition of love (agape) – giving someone what they need, even if they don’t deserve it and even if it cost you something. Love someone today!
10/31/2018
Psalm 46:10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Be still! It is hard to do in our crazy and hectic lives but we need to be still in two ways. One we need to take time slow down and spend time with God daily. Secondly we need to not let our hearts and thoughts be troubled we need to know that God is God and that we can trust in Him completely!
10/30/2018
James 5:13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.
Last night ours on was suffering and many of you lifted him up in prayer. We thank you very much for that. Today his surgery went well and things are back in place. We are cheerful and thanking God for His blessing and answered prayer! Keep the prayers coming please as he continues to recover and heal.
10/29/2018
1 Thessalonians 5:25 Brothers and sisters, pray for us
Today our youngest son broke his arm in two places, one of them being on the growth plate. Tomorrow he goes in for surgeries. I would ask that you pray for him and all of us as we go through this time with him. Breaking an arm isn’t a huge deal but for an active sixth grade it is still hard, and for mom too!
10/28/2018
2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
10/28/2018
John 21:25 Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
10/26/2018
Isaiah 40:28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
Our God is a powerful God! To know he is always there and never grows tired and never grows weak is so comforting and reassuring! You can go to Him anytime day and night, he isn’t tired and he isn’t tired of hearing from you either!
10/25/2018
Psalm 34:19 The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all;
10/23/2018
Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
10/22/2018
Philippians 1:29-30 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
10/21/2018
1 Thessalonians 5:2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.
10/20/2018
Luke 12:43 It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns.
10/19/2018
Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Sometimes I have to remind myself how blessed I am and all that God has done for me. I get upset with my current situation or something that is going on and I forget to praise Him for the wonderful things he has done and my life and continues to do each and every day! What do you need to take some time today to praise and thank God for doing in your life?
10/28/2018
Ecclesiastes 7:20 Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins.
This is something as Christians we need to remember. It in no ways makes it ok to sin but we do have to understand we aren’t perfect! There are going to be times where we mess up and sin. Even when we do God still loves us! He is still there with us to pick us up, forgive us and move forward with us! Don’t continue to beat yourself up, accept His forgiveness, repent and get right back to doing His will!
10/17/2018
Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Today I am so thankful and blessed because of the wonderful wife I get to share my life with. God has truly blessed me with someone whose beauty is in her love for and relationship with Christ. I pray today my daughter will continue to strive to be a Godly woman and that each of my boys will find one as amazing as I have!
10/16/2018
Ephesians 3:7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power.
This is a good reminder to Christians that we are servants of the Gospel and that we should be busy working to spread the Gospel with others! I pray you will look for chances to share Christ with others today and love on them the way we are called to!
10/15/2018
Proverbs 19:20 Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.
10/14/2018
3 John 1:11 Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
10/13/2018
Hebrews 13:7 – Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
10/12/2018
Revelations 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
How wonderful to remember who God is. That he always has been and always will be! We can rest knowing that God is who He says He is and will do what He says He will do! All glory to Him today and Forever!
10/11/2018
Psalm 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless he shields all who take refuge in him.
Why do we keep choosing our own way instead of following the Lords will for our life? He has a plan that is perfect for us and yet I know I often think I know better and try to do things on my own instead of allowing Him to guide my steps! I pray today we will look for His path and follow it when the Holy Spirit leads us!
10/10/2018
Colossians 3:14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
It is so important that as Christians we are one body working together for Christ and not working against each other because of our own wishes and desires. The way of the Lord trumps all of our own wishes!
10/9/2018
Philippians 3:20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
I hope we remember that this world isn’t our home, we are just passing through! Our allegiance should be to our Lord and Savior not to the things of this world!
10/8/2018
Proverbs 3:21 My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion;
10/6/2018
Proverbs 4:1 Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.
10/5/2018
Proverbs 23:19 Listen, my son, and be wise, and set your heart on the right path
10/4/2018
Philippians 1:23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
For Christians it is so wonderful to know that God has blessed us with another day to serve Him but when we have our last day here on Earth it will be our best day because we will be home with Christ.
Sermon – A Rock & A Hard Place
10/2/2018
Joshua 24:15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
We all serve something! We all put something #1 in our lives! What is it that is number one in your life?
Sermon – A Rock & A Hard Place
10/1/2018
Philippians 1:21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Sermon – A Rock & A Hard Place
9/30/2018
2 Corinthians 11:14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
As Christians we have to make sure we know what is really of Christ and not let ourselves be deceived by Satan who is always trying to find a way to deceive us no matter what it takes.
9/28/2018
2 Corinthians 11:3 But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.
9/27/2018
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.
I love this verse! I love the fact that there is nothing that can break the relationship I have with Christ! The visual of Him holding me in my hand is just so awesome and safe feeling! No matter what this world throws our way, He has it taken care of!
9/26/2018
James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
Prayer is powerful and we should make sure we are praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ each day! Lift them up in prayer!
Sermon – Philippians Study – Plan & Pray
9/25/2018
Philippians 1:20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Sermon – Philippians Study – Plan & Pray
9/24/2018
Philippians 1:18-19 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
Sermon – Philippians Study – Plan & Pray
9/23/2018
Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
9/22/2018
Isaiah 40:1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
Pretty clear what the Lord tells us to do! There are people around us hurting, we need to be looking out for them and doing all we can to comfort their hurt and pain!
9/21/2018
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
9/20/2018
Romans 14:19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
I love this verse. It tells us that we should do everything we can to be at peace with others. If that isn’t tough enough we then are called to edify (build up) one another. As Christians we have to improve in those two areas by the power of the Holy Spirit.
9/19/2018
Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected
I love to hear this song especially when this world and the stresses and hassles of it pull me down and feel weak. It is so wonderful to be reminded how might and strong my God and Lord and Savior is!
9/18/2018
Philippians 1:18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Sermon – Philippians 1:15-18 – Motives
9/16/2018
Proverbs 16:31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.
Spent part of my day visiting members of the church who are no longer able to attend because of their health. Always a blessing to spend time with older and wiser people who have been involved in helping our church and myself grow in the Lord.
9/15/2018
James 4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
Make sure we are Today Christians and not putting things off until tomorrow!
Devotional – If Tomorrow Never Comes
9/14/2018
Exodus 8:9-10 Moses said to Pharaoh, “I leave to you the honor of setting the time for me to pray for you and your officials and your people that you and your houses may be rid of the frogs, except for those that remain in the Nile.” 10 “Tomorrow,” Pharaoh said. Moses replied, “It will be as you say, so that you may know there is no one like the Lord our God.
Devotional – If Tomorrow Never Comes
9/13/2018
John 4:39 Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.”
Lets ask ourselves how many believe in Jesus because of the testimony I have shared with them?
9/12/2018
Acts 8:30-31 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
We need to help others understand the Gospel! We need to let them know how much Jesus loves them even though they have sinned and that He wants them to come into a relationship with them!
9/11/2018
Romans 10:14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
9/10/2018
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Self-Control
9/9/2019
1 Corinthians 9:25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Self-Control
9/8/2018
Proverbs 25:28 Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.
9/7/2015
Mark 1:15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Every day we are one day closer to either the Lord coming back or to the end of our life. We have to make a choice if we will accept or reject Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The Good News is what Jesus did on the cross so we can be saved!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – What
9/5/2018
John 5:24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.
What a wonderful promise for those who have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior! Although we still face a physical death we do not have to fear a spiritual death and can know that we will spend eternity with God in Heaven!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – What
9/4/2016
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – What
9/3/2018
Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
The first step of salvation is realizing and admitting that we are sinners and there is nothing we can do about it on our own.
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – What
9/2/2018
1 Corinthians 4:21 What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline, or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Gentleness
9/1/2018
Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Another inclusive word, completely! Scripture tells us that we should always be completely gentle to everyone! Wow! What a challenge to live out but what we should strive to do through the power of the Holy Spirit!
Devotional – Gentle Giant Killer
8/31/2018
Titus 3:1-2 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
Devotional – Gentle Giant Killer
8/30/2015
1 Chronicles 16:24 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
As Christians we are to tell others of the wonderful things Christ has done for us. I love the word “all” because it is inclusive. There is not anyone that shouldn’t hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. We need to go into ALL the world and tell the Good News to ALL people.
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – When Where
8/29/2018
Galatians 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Are you in step with the Spirit? Do you do what he calls you to do? Do you go where he tells you to go? Do you say what he tells you to say? We need to do what we can to keep in step with the Holy Spirit!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – When Where
8/28/2018
Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
You are where you are because God wants you there at this time. Work to do what he wants you to be doing and make the most of your situation even if it isn’t where you want to be! God has a plan and a purpose for you!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – When Where
8/27/2018
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
When should we share the gospel with others? Whenever! The phrase, “In season and out of season” pretty much covers all the time. As Christians we have to be ready to witness whenever the Holy Spirit moves us!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – When Where
8/26/2018
Daniel 6:10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.
Daniel remained faithful not matter what the cost was! Do we have that same kind of faithfulness to God or do we move to what is easiest!
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Faithfulness
8/25/2018
Proverbs 3:3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
Devotional – I’m Forever Yours, …
8/24/2018
Matthew 25:21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Devotional – I’m Forever Yours, …
8/23/2018
James 4:17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.
As Christians we know that God calls us to go and share the gospel with others. If we don’t we are committing a sin of omission! You know you should do it, so do it! When you do, God will be glorified!
8/22/2018
Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
If you are saved you have the power of the Holy Spirit! With Him comes the responsibility of of being God’s witness everywhere you go!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – Why?
8/20/2018
Matthew 28:18-20 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
The great commission! Go! Go! Go! It seems like we are always on the go, this way and that way. Running here and there! School, sports, hobbies, activities, we go so many places and do so many things. Do we take the time to share God’s word with others? Do we go into our world and tell of the wonderful things Christ has done for us?
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – Why?
8/19/2018
Mathew 12:35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him
So the question is what is stored up in you? Do you fill yourself with things that are good or things that are evil? The things you read, hear, and see will become the things that you do! Fill yourself with the Fruits of the Spirit!
8/18/2018
Romans 12:9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
We get to choose the things we like and the things we don’t. We can either hold tight to what is good and right or we can hold tight to what is wrong and evil. The decision is up to us. Make the right choice today and every day! Through it May God Be Glorified!
8/17/2018
Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
8/16/2018
Ephesians 4:34 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. (NLT)
There were times growing up my dad used to tell me, “you need an attitude adjustment.” There were also times growing up my dad gave me and attitude adjustment 🙂 It worked! Maybe today you need the Holy Spirit to give you an attitude adjustment. You may need to change your attitude and thoughts to focus on things above not on the things of this world!
8/15/2018
1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
When we are saved we become priests. It becomes our job to let people know that God has done for us! Share your story! Tell others the wonderful love of Jesus and His saving grace!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – Who?
8/14/2018
Acts 8:4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.
This is such a powerful and challenging verse! I have to ask myself if I preach/share the word of God wherever I go? Sadly the answer isn’t what it should be. I need to improve on my evangelism!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – Who?
8/13/2018
James 2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
Is your faith alive and active? Do you live it out in action or is it becoming stagnant? Evangelism is an awesome way of putting our faith into action!
Sermon – Evangelism 101 – Who?
8/12/2018
Psalm 25:28 My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.
What do you proclaim each day? What would a recording of your day sound like if it was played back for anyone to hear? I ask myself if the things I say make God known and praise Him!
8/9/2018
1 Peter 1:6-7 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
I stayed up late working on my sermon for this week and following the elections results from yesterdays primary election. First I hope you got out and voted! Second my thoughts turned to those who didn’t win. Some of them I am sure are great people who have suffered a major setback because of what happened in the election. As I thought about it there were a few things that came to mind. How will this setback allow them to prove their faith is real? What will others see when they watch how the candidates handle this defeat?
I know I am not in there shoes and so it is hard for me to understand what they are feeling but in some ways I am excited for these people because I believe God has closed a door for them. It may hurt and may not have been what they were hoping for but if they take some time and look at it in a different way they may see this isn’t just God closing a door but opening a new door of opportunity that they otherwise may not have seen or taken. No matter what I pray they give God the the glory because he does have a plan for them!
8/8/2018
Psalm 103:13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;
Today is a very special day, it is my dad’s birthday. I am so blessed to have the dad I do. He is so loving, supportive and would do anything to help me and my family. I think about how much my dad loves me and how awesome that is but it does not compare to how much God loves each and every one of us!
8/7/2018
1 Peter 2:23-24 When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 24 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”
Jesus was long suffer (patient) for us so that we could be forgiven!
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Patience
8/5/2018
Romans 8:25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
In the greek the word hope in this verse means to wait actively. It doesn’t mean “I hope something happens.” It means we are active waiting for it to happen because we know it is going to happen!
Devotional – Just a Little Patience!
8/4/2018
James 1:4 Let perseverance(patience) finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Devotional – Just a Little Patience!
8/2/2015
Genesis 50:20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
The things you are going through may be hard and seem like there is no possible good in it. However, God may be using the challenges and trials you are going through to help spread the Gospel to others!
Sermon – Philippians 1:12-14 – Joy in Advancing!
8/1/2018
Philippians 1:14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Do you proclaim the gospel without fear? Do you let others know what Christ has done for you? As Christians we are to share the Good News godly with others!
Sermon – Philippians 1:12-14 – Joy in Advancing!
7/31/2018
Philippians 1:12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.
What a powerful verse! Do you have the attitude that the circumstances you are in are a way for God to advance the gospel? Paul gives us a wonderful example to follow!
Sermon – Philippians 1:12-14 – Joy in Advancing!
7/29/2018
Romans 5:10 For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!
We were once enemies with God but thanks to Jesus sacrifice not he cross we can have peace with God!
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Peace
7/28/2018
Psalm 18:2 “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
Devotional – My Peace in the Rock
7/26/2018
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Always is such a difficult word for Christians. When we go through hard times, loss and trials we are told to rejoice. We can rejoice because we know the pain we are dealing with here is but for a moment compared to the rejoicing that is to come in Heaven.
7/25/2018
2 Peter 3:11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives
A day of judgement and destruction is coming. Our lives can either point others to Christ or they can point them away form Christ. We need to make sure we are loving others in the right way to point them to Christ!
Sermon – Joy in Loving* Philippians 1:9-11
7/24/2018
1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. 10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more
As Christians we need to be studying God’s word so that we can increase our love and love the way that Jesus loves us!
Sermon – Joy in Loving* Philippians 1:9-11
7/23/2018
Philippians 1:9-11 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousnessthat comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Sermon – Joy in Loving* Philippians 1:9-11
7/22/2018
John 15:11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Joy
7/21/2018
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,
7/20/2018
1 Peter 1:8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
7/19/2018
1 Corinthians 13:7 It (love) always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
I am probably the last person that should be talking bout love. It wasn’t until I preached this sermon series that I really knew what love was and what loved should and shouldn’t be. We need more love in our world! The love that God has called us to have towards everyone including our enemies. Understanding love and living it out will change your life completely!
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Love – Part 6
7/18/2018
Proverbs 24:17 Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice,
Christians that are called to love should never find joy in the failings of someone else. One of my favorite quotes is, “does your heart break for the things that break the heart of God?” When someone falls God doesn’t rejoice and neither should we. Our hearts should break for them and want to be there for them to help them!
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Love – Part 5
7/17/2018
Hebrew 13:1 Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters.
Sermon – Joy of Affection – Philippians 1:7-8
7/16/2018
Philippians 1:7-8 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. 8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
Sermon – Joy of Affection – Philippians 1:7-8
7/15/2018
Romans 7:4 So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.
People often struggle with what their purpose is, wondering what they should be doing. This verse makes it very clear what Christians should be doing, we should be bearing fruit!
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Love – Part 3
7/14/2018
1 Samuel 20:17 And Jonathan had David reaffirm his oath out of love for him, because he loved him as he loved himself.
We are told in scripture to love others as we love ourself. It is such a difficult thing to do and really seems impossible. Jonathan did it and not just to anyone but to David who would become king after Saul, Jonathan’s dad. Jonathan would have been in line for the throne. He didn’t become jealous of David he loved him.
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Love – Part 2
7/13/2018
1 Corinthians 16:14 – Do everything in love.
Sermon – Fruit of the Spirit – Love – Part 1
7/12/2018
Psalm 118:24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.
Find joy today knowing that God has given you another day! Another day to know Him, another day to grow in Him. Have a day filled with joy knowing God gave you this day for a reason! Use it to glorify Him!
7/11/2018
Psalm 33:20-21 We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. 21 In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
If you are like me you struggle with being patience and waiting on the Lord. Waiting on Him is an act of obedience and trust that I know I need to improve on.
7/9/2018
Psalm 37:7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
This is something I struggle with, being patient! I get frustrated sometimes even by commercials and stop lights! On a more serious note, I don’t always wait for the Lord’s timing in things and take it into my own hand. If you struggle with this too hopefully we can learn to be still and let God work things out in His way and His time.
7/8/2018
2 Peter 1:5-7 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
Just like yesterday this verse isn’t about adding one or two things that we want to add it is about making all of theses words part of who we are and part of what we do.
Devotional – It’s Not A Buffet
7/7/2018
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Devotional – It’s Not A Buffet
7/6/2018
1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.
I am so thankful for the men and women that laid down their life for our country and those who are currently putting their life on the line for the freedoms this country has. They are following in Jesus footsteps who laid down his life for everyone so they could come into a personal relationship with Him!
7/5/2018
Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
To justify is to declare righteous, to make one right with God. Because of sin we need to be justified and we can be by accepting God’s free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord.
7/2/2018
Colossians 3:2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Our mind is such a powerful thing. The things that we think about often make their way out into the way that we live. We need to focus our thoughts on Godly things and let scripture and the Holy Spirit guide our thoughts.
6/30/2018
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will.
What we think is so important! The thoughts that we have drive the life that we live.
6/29/2018
2 Corinthians 10:15 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
6/28/2018
Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Why do you do what you do? This verse shows us why we should do things, so that they point others to God. We should look for opportunities to do good deeds and pray that when people see them they see God at work and not us. May God Be Glorified!
6/27/2018
Philippians 1:4-5 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,
The walk of a Christian isn’t one of isolation. We need to develop relationships and partnerships with other Christians that allow us to be more effective and reaching others for Christ and sharing His love and compassion.
Sermon – More Joy Please – Philippians 1:3-5
6/26/2018
Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
Sermon – Philippians 1:3-5 – More Joy Please!
6/25/2018
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Today I mourn the loss of one of my prior students and athletes. I ask that you join me in lifting up the Tomlin family in prayer. May God strengthen them during this time of loss and comfort them as only he can.
6/24/2018
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
What a wonderful gift Jesus gives us, Peace! This isn’t peace between two countries or even between two people. This is peace as we go through our life knowing that God is in control and that we can trust and depend on Him to deliver us through all of this and bring us home to Him when our time is done here on Earth! We don’t have to stress or let anxiety creep in! We can leave free of fear knowing we can face it all with Christ!
6/23/2018
Psalm 29:11 The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.
I love verses that speak of God’s promises. This verse has two very strong and wonderful promises in it. Through the Holy Spirt we have strength to persevere and endure the things that life throws at us. Knowing this and that God has everything in His power as well as knowing our eternity with Him is secure we can live in peace and not let the things of this world overpower our thinking!
6/22/2018
John 20:19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”
Do you struggle with stress, depression or anxiety?
Maybe it is time for peace in your life!
Devotional – Peace Be With You!
6/21/2018
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.
God’s grace is so awesome and so wonderful! He offers salvation to us even though we do not deserve it! His love for us triumphs the sin in our life! The key part of that verse to me is “offers salvation to all people.” Jesus died for EVERYONE! The offer to receive the gift of life and salvation is on the table! Will you reach out and take it by believing in trusting in Jesus Christ?
Sermon – Forgiven & Victorious – Philippians 1:2
6/19/2018
Colossians 2:13-15 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Sermon – Forgiven & Victorious – Philippians 1:2
6/18/2018
Psalm 103:13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;
I am blessed to have a wonderful dad! He has loved me unconditionally through many ups and down of life! He lives out the compassion God calls us to live and has been a wonderful Godly example to me of what a Godly Man should be like! I pray if you are a dad that you strive to be the dad God has called you to be!
6/17/2018
John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
Today I was apart of a funeral for a wonderful gentleman. During the service this verse came to my mind. This is such a strong promise for Christians. When this physical body we live in dies our should lives on. True spiritual death is separation from God. Those who have believed in Jesus and accepted Him as their Lord and Savior spend eternity in His presence, they never die. Those who die and have rejected Jesus will spend eternity in Hell, separated from God.
6/16/2018
Mark 8:36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
What matter is in life? Physical things or spiritual things? You can have the greatest job, the nicest house, the most awesome car and all the things you could ever want but without a personal relationship with Jesus you in essence have nothing! The most important thing you can have is salvation that come by faith in Jesus Christ!
6/15/2018
Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
6/14/2018
1 Thessalonians 5:14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
It is amazing how much one verse can hold! There is so much we need to be doing as Christians! Are we helping those who are just watching life fly by and causing problems? Are we encouraging those who are dealing with disappointment and are discouraged? Are we helping the weak by meeting the needs we have? Last, but not least, and also very difficult are we be patient with EVERYONE! It is tough when the Bible uses those all-inclusive words! I always read it as “everyone, especially the hardest ones.” A few reminders for us to be working on this week!
6/13/2018
Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
As Christians we should always be looking for opportunities to help people who are going through difficult times. There are so many people that could use some love and support. Pray that God will open your eyes to see the people around you who you can help carry their burdens.
Sermon – Philippians 1:1 Salutation
6/12/2018
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
As Christians we should always be looking for opportunities to encourage other people. We should be looking for people that we can mentor and help grow and mature in Christ Jesus.
Sermon – Philippians 1:1 Salutation
6/11/2018
Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
This verse is packed with so much when you break it down and look at it closely. It seems like only a greeting at the beginning of a letter but it is so much more!
Sermon – Philippians 1:1 Salutation
6/10/2018
1 Corinthians 12:7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
What is your gift? God has blessed you with a gift, maybe it is teaching or encouraging or leading or compassion. There are so many different things that it could be. You need to spend time in prayer and have God reveal your gift to you and ask him to give you opportunities to help others with the gift he has blessed you with! Use the gift so the God is glorified by the helping of others!
6/9/2018
John 8:7 “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
Devotional – An Opened Jail Cell
6/8/2018
John 8:11 “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
Devotional – An Opened Jail Cell
6/7/2018
Psalm 133:1 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!
As Christians we should be one church. The problem is we let things in that divide us as a church. When we do this we are giving more power to satan. It is time God’s people come together and stand firm on his principals laid out in God’s Word. When we work together as one body God is glorified!
6/6/2018
Psalm 95:10 For forty years I was angry with that generation; I said, ‘They are a people whose hearts go astray, and they have not known my ways.’
I read this verse yesterday. It is talking about God’s anger with the Israelites after he delivered them from Egypt. I asked myself if His statement is true of our generation too…have our hearts gone astray do we know His ways? We can ask it as a broad question or we can answer it honestly for ourselves which is what really matters! What would your honest answer be today?
6/5/2018
Acts 16:26-28 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”
What really stands out to me here is the phrase “We are all here!” Think about the fact they were in a prison with other prisoners. Some of them had maybe been there a long time and some knew there sentence meant many more years there. When the doors opened and their chains were loosened your would expect the other prisoners to take the chance they had and make a break for it. I have to wonder if the witness that Paul and Silas were by praying and singing impacted those in a way that kept them there!
Sermon – Philippians – The Backstory – Acts 16
6/4/2018
Acts 16:25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.
How do you handle times of adversity? What do people see and hear when they watch you go through difficult times? We need to remember someone is always watching and how we handle things can impact them in a way that points to God or a way that doesn’t.
Sermon – Philippians – The Backstory – Acts 16
6/3/2018
Psalm 25:1 In you, Lord my God, I put my trust.
Such a short and simple verse but simple doesn’t always mean easy. I often struggle with trusting God and His ways. I pray that we all learn to trust in our Lord and Savior is so much better than going about things our own way. Trust in Him today!
6/2/2018
Romans 15:7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Sadly it often seems that Christians are some of the least accepting people. We should be accepting of others in Love. Accepting others in love doesn’t always mean that we agree or condone what they are doing. We see them as God’s creation and want to share the love of God with them. When we accept others we Glorify God!
Devotional – Where is Your Focus
6/1/2018
1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Devotional – Where is Your Focus
5/31/2018
Jeremiah 23:24 Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the Lord. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the Lord.
Have you ever thought about the amount of sin that is done in the dark or that people try to hide. We do something not wanting other people to see it. What is sad is that the one who really matters sees everything we do! There is nothing we can do that is hidden from Him. What we say and do should be filtered through the thought, is what I am doing Glorifying God.
5/30/2018
Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,
This verse is probably one verse that some people don’t want to read or think I am being a prude for posting. First let me say I do not believe that drinking is wrong, I believe what the Bible says and that is not to get drunk. When we get drunk we don’t always make the best decisions and are being guided by something other than the Holy Spirit. We should always be led by the Spirit.
5/29/2018
John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
We were condemned when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden. Sin separated man from God and condemned us to eternal separation from God. The wonderful thing is that God sent His son Jesus to die for the penalty of our sins. Through Jesus’ death and restoration we can be saved from our sin and no longer be separated from God.
5/28/2018
Deuteronomy 13:1-3 If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, 2 and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, and the prophet says, “Let us follow other gods” (gods you have not known) “and let us worship them,” 3 you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul
School is finished and summer is here! No more grading math tests. That doesn’t mean testing is done though. We are always facing tests. There are so many things that try to pull us away from from God. It shows where our true love is. It is sad how some people are miss lead by false teachers. Show your love to God by only trusting and following Him.
5/26/2018
Genesis 1:31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.
School is out and it is summer time! During this time of year a lot of families go on vacation. We go and do so much. I pray that as you are busy doing things that you take time to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of God all around us. This world we live on is His creativity and creation and we should take time to take the beauty of it in and give God glory for his amazing handiwork!
5/25/2018
Psalm 1:6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
5/24/2018
1 Timothy 5:15 Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan.
This verse brings out another black and white statement. You are either following Christ or you are following satan. The choices and decisions we make show which it is. How do we spend our time? What do we do with the resources we have? Our we out for our own glory or for Gods?
5/23/2018
2 Corinthians 11:3 But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.
To often we let our minds get off of Christ and the things he would have us to do. When we do this we are turning away from Him and following satan. Doing this ends up in a spiritual shipwreck. Keep your mind on Christ today!
5/22/2018
1 Timothy 1:19 holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith.
We have to hold on tight to our faith and knowing what God says is right and wrong! Satan will try anything to get us to turn away from it and follow him! I pray today that you hold on!
5/21/2018
1 Timothy 1:18 Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well,
5/20/2018
Matthew 25:31-34 When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
The day is coming when Jesus will appear. There will be a time of separation and our eternal destination will be handed out. I pray for those who do not know Him to come to know Him and for those of us who have accepted Him as our Lord and Savior that we will share the Gospel with others!
Devotional – Not a Leg to Stand On
5/18/2015
Psalm 1:5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
Devotional – Not a Leg to Stand On
5/17/2018
Deuteronomy 19:11 Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
“Them” in this verse is God’s laws, decrees and commands. At their time is was the scripture or what we would refer to as the Bible. So today we need to make sure we are teaching God’s Word to our children. We should be talking about it constantly with them. It should be interwoven into everything we do in our life. There is nothing better than passing down an eternal legacy. Sermon – Godly Mother
5/15/2018
Luke 1:38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
Mary shows an example of a Godly Mother. Sermon – Godly Mother
5/14/2018
Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
A very simple verse but oh so very important. Oh if I only I would have listened to my parents more how much simpler my life would have been. As a parent now I know how important it is to try and give my kids Godly advice even if they choose not to follow it. It is important for me to be close to Christ in our relationship so I can lead them the way God would want me to. I am so thankful I had a Godly Mother!
5/13/2018
Proverbs 1:8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
Tomorrow is Mother’s Day! If you haven’t gotten yours a present you better get after it! I am blessed to have a wonderful mother! She has been very sacrificial and loving! I could never thank her enough for all she has done for me in my forty-five years. Looking back though I wish I would have lived out Proverbs 1:8 more. There are a lot of times my mom told me things and I didn’t listen, she wanted to teach me but I didn’t want to be taught. I thought I knew best but Mom knows best! Listening to her and her wisdom would have saved me a lot of trouble. If your mom is still alive make her feel special and loved this weekend because to her you are special and loved!
5/12/2018
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in[a] Christ Jesus our Lord.
Until we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and give our life to Him we are all sinners. Because of that we face not only a physical death but also a spiritual death, eternal separation from God. Thanks to Jesus sacrifice on the cross we gain receive the free gift of salvation and forgiveness of our sins! Then we know we will experience eternal life, being in the presence of God for eternity!
5/11/2018
Psalm 1:4 Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
5/10/2018
2 Corinthians 12:10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
A tough verse to live out! It is hard to delight in all those things but we have to remember that God has a reason and purpose for allowing them and that is so His strength and power can be revealed. If your going through something difficult right now remember God may be using it not only to change you but to impact those around you who are seeing the power of God living in you!
5/9/2018
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
Your Weakness Magnifies God’s Power!
Sermon – Mighty Weakling
5/7/2018
Hebrews 10:25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
It is Saturday and my question for you is what are your weekend plans? Golf, the lake, yard work? We have a lot of things we love to do on the weekend and some things that need to be done. I hope one thing you plan on doing is going to church. The percentage of people who claim to be Christians and attend church regularly is a disputed research statistic but is usually around 20-40%. Those are hard numbers to read! As Christians we need fellowship, encouragement, worship and growth in God’s word. I pray you evaluate your weekend and make sure you are making time for you Lord and Savior! It will greatly benefit you and it will glorify God.
5/5/2018
Ephesians 5:19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord
Today I have the privilege and honor of preaching a memorial for a wonderful lady in our church. She loved the Lord and she loved singing! Singing was her passion and her way of praising God. I pray you can find something you are passionate about that you can do to glorify God from your heart!
5/4/2018
Psalm 1:3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.
5/3/2018
Romans 16:25 Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past,
Our God is powerful and supplies us with the strength we need to do what He has called us to do!
4/30/2018
Psalm 1:2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
4/26/2018
Matthew 7:15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
4/22/18
Matthew 28:6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Today we celebrate Jesus resurrection. On Friday people were posting, “It is Friday but Sunday is coming!” Let me say today, “It is Sunday but tomorrow is coming! We don’t know which tomorrow it will be but Jesus is coming back! I pray you have a personal relationship with Him and are ready when His tomorrow comes!
4/1/2018
Matthew 26:53-54 Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”
I love these verses. To know that Jesus had the power to remove himself from the situation leading up to the cross and the cross itself but he chose not to shows just how much he truly loves each and every one of us. Jesus went to the cross for you!