Sunday Words of Encouragement September 29, 2019

Our Sunday School teacher shared some “God-incidences” (not coincidences) that are discussed in Jonathan Chan’s new book the Oracle. We agreed that God uses ordinary people, even non-believers, to accomplish and fulfill His plans.

We shared communion in church service. Then Pastor proceeded to complete his series: Culture Shift. Last week he reminded us that our Hope must be on a firm foundation. This week he noted how we are often challenged to make a decision right now: there is a limited supply; this may be the last one or the last chance. Advertising leans to pressure for instant gratification.

Long-range plans used to be ten, even thirty years. Now long-range is considered to be two to five years! Christians have a view of time in terms of eternity. There is an ongoing tension in choices between now or long time.

Sin is a willful disregard of eternity. Jesus tells his disciples that he must go away, to His Father, so he can prepare a place for them and return for them. John 14:3.

Eternity is imminent.

In light of that, how do we live? We may need to be ready to suffer too. 1 Peter 4:3. Christians in Iran are growing. They have no building but in their hearts. They are living lives at risk. If you have suffered for Christ, you are finished to sin.

The Point: Setting you mind on eternity shapes every decision and every priority in your life.

Eternity should move us to prayer; dedicate yourself to love which covers a multitude of sins; use your gifts to serve on another. 1 Peter 4:7-10.

We have been collecting offerings this month for Fire Bible to serve people in Serbia. Skipping a meal out and giving a $10.00 gift of a Fire Bible is an investment in eternity.

I went to my pages of songs and this is one that I found that fits well.

I got chills listening to it even though this isn’t my usual choice of music.

1 Peter 4:7-10 (NIV)
7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 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.


Lord, please help me to keep my eye on eternity and not things of this temporary world.