Sunday Words of Encouragement April 24, 2016

We had a good Sunday School service followed by a lovely communion service. Once again, unplanned, the Sunday School (SS) lesson and Pastor’s Sermon had a common theme.

The SS lesson was titled “Love in Action” and continued our studies in Romans. (Romans 12:9-13.) The point being that we are to be transformed and then daily lay down our own fleshly desires to serve others just as the example Christ set for us.

Pastor’s sermon was the fourth in his series to prepare us for the transition to a new pastoral leader. This was based on Matthew 28:18, “The Great Commission”. Our society has changed drastically over the last century, noting the difference between school issues for students in the 1940s and current day. The social problems of drugs, alcohol, violence and depression are not limited to crowded cities, they have spread into small towns too.

The churches have changed too. The question is, has the church changed for better or worse? Anarchy, sorrow and sin require us to peach the word to this world. The world is full of rebellion. They don't want to abide by Gods rules. The right and Christians are still fighting forces of darkness. We need to respond with the spirit of love.

The only thing that can change man is Christ. It is the responsibility of the church to be a light in the darkness by sharing the love of Christ to those we contact in life.

This song really fits today's messages.

Verses for Today:
Romans 12:9-13 (NIV)
Love in Action
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Lord, this is my prayer: Help me daily to die to self and live for you.