Sunday Words of Encouragement March 31, 2024 - Resurrection Victory!

Happy Resurrection Day! This morning pastor gave his message from Acts 2:22-24. Fifty days since the resurrection of Christ Jesus, Peter preaches resurrection for the first time. In his message he notes important elements.

1. God attested to Jesus by the miracles, mighty wonders He did “in your midst”. That power still exists today to show who Jesus is. Resurrection is really about Jesus.

2. The crucifixion of Christ was planned as a substitutionary sacrifice for sinful man. Jesus is the propitiation for sin; His death satisfied the debt and wrath we owe.
John 3:16-17. Jesus came to provide a restored relationship for sinful man. Isaiah 53:11.
We are all sinners. He is faithful to forgive, ‘if we confess our sins’. 1 John 1:9. We need to be more than believers. Be worshipers.

3. Those whom Christ died for, crucified Him. We are unable to keep the law or to truly love our neighbors as ourselves. “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.” James 2:8-10. God is concerned about our soul, not our comfort.
Love is willing to be vulnerable. And God loved so much he was vulnerable to allow man freedom of choice.

4. It was not possible for Christ to be held by death. Resurrection is proof of acceptance of the sacrifice to pay the debt and restore us. John 10:15.
Whosoever believes on Christ - the Way, the truth and the life - will have everlasting life.
those who sleep in Jesus. Because Jesus had victory over death, we can have victory. 1 Thessalonians 4:8-16.

Believe and Praise God for the Resurrection of Jesus who won our victory!

I chose this beautiful song for today: Here is Love Vast as the Ocean

Verses for Today:
Acts 2:22-24 New International Version
22 “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.

Lord, I confess I am a sinner and I believe you died for my sins.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 24, 2024 - Worship our God!

Pastor continued his preaching from Nehemiah noting the overall theme: Rebuild and Revive.
Believes this is prophetic message for our church (the church). Today’s message is from Nehemiah Chapter 9.
Five elements of spiritual revival expressed here:
1. Humility – they fasted, dressed in sack cloth and put dirt on their heads. Nehemiah 9:1; 2 Chronicles 7:14.
2. Separate from foreigners. Nehemiah 9:2; 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 - separate from sin. Allow God to transfer your nature.
3. Confession/repentance. Nehemiah 9:2-3. Confess inequities of ancestors and recognize our own sin. 1 John 1:9-10. Do we love the sin more than we love God?
4. Worship. Nehemiah 9:3-5. God created us to worship Him. Seek the Lord and He will be found. It is our gift to Him.
5. Listen to the Word of God. Nehemiah 9:3. They read for a quarter of the day! The Word of a God is a mirror to our behavior. The God of the universe has given us instructions how to best live our lives.

Remainder of the chapter gives examples of how to worship, what to say.
Acknowledge His greatness, who He is. Talk about His attributes. Nehemiah 9:6-7.
Worship Him for all He has done – creation, history, provision, healing; Nehemiah 9:8-11.
Worship Him for guidance, the Spirit that instructs, convicts, directs. Nehemiah 9:12-13.
Worship Him for His Word. Nehemiah 9:13-14.
Worship Him for miracles of the past and miracles of your current life. Nehemiah 9:15-17.
Worship Him for His forgiveness and steadfastness. Nehemiah 9:17-19.
Worship Him for the promises He has fulfilled and for His compassion. Nehemiah 9:20-30.
Worship Him for His presence, grace and mercy. He will never leave you. Nehemiah 9:31.
Worship Him for His greatness and His righteousness. Nehemiah 9:32-34.

When we worship, He shows up. He has come to seek and save those who were lost.

We sang a wonderful ‘older’ praise song this morning: To Him Who Sits On The Throne”… be Blessing and Glory and Honor and Power forever. That is a great song but I chose this song today: Greater Things.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 9 NIV
1 On the twenty-fourth day of the same month, the Israelites gathered together, fasting and wearing sackcloth and putting dust on their heads. 2 Those of Israelite descent had separated themselves from all foreigners. They stood in their places and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors. 3 They stood where they were and read from the Book of the Law of the Lord their God for a quarter of the day, and spent another quarter in confession and in worshiping the Lord their God.

Heavenly Father my creator, Christ my Savior, Holy Spirit my Guide – May I share your Omnipotence, Omniscience, and Omnipresence with those I come in touch with.

Additional Verse:
2 Chronicles 7:14
…[I]f 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.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 17, 2024 - We Are Only Pilgrims Here.

Pastor continued his message in Nehemiah 8.
Reminder to be hungry for the Word of God, to learn and do His Will.
God, through the leaders, called the people and directed them to celebrate the Feast of Booths. They were to live in temporary shelters during the seventh month to remember God’s faithfulness to them. Remember where they came from and how God provided for them. Proclaim His Goodness. They didn’t earn what they had. God gave it to them.

Worship is not just good music. It is so much more. It is praising, being grateful, studying His Word. Look beyond the obstacles to see the blessings.

The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof. Psalm 24:1. We didn’t earn where we are, what we have. God has blessed us. Peter notes that the people were pilgrims. We are sojourners in a strange land. We await the time of reaching our citizenship which is in Heaven for eternity.

What it means for us as Pilgrims:

1. Don’t view this world as your home. You have a heavenly home.
2. Don’t live for just here and now. Don’t seek permanent possessions here. Lay up treasures in heaven, not on earth. Matthew 6:19-2. We brought nothing into this world and take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:6-8. God blesses our income not to increase our standard of living, but to increase our standard of giving.
3. Don’t be obsessed with earthly relationships. Luke 18. We should be pleasing God more than man.
4. Don’t be obsessed with this live. Throw off what hinders and set aside the weight of sin that entangles us. Hebrews 12:1. The world society will get worse and worse. The goal is to reach as many as possible with God’s gift of salvation before He brings wrath on the world.

The assembly met for eight days, and they were more dedicated each day. Each day of worship is one step closer to eternity. God has kept us through all our years.

Our ministry isn’t about church growth. It’s about Kingdom growth!

I like this song today: One Day.

Nehemiah 8:17-18 NIV
17 The whole company that had returned from exile built temporary shelters and lived in them. From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated it like this. And their joy was very great.
18 Day after day, from the first day to the last, Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God. They celebrated the festival for seven days, and on the eighth day, in accordance with the regulation, there was an assembly.

Thank you, Lord, for all you have given me from breath to blessing. Help me share Your love and message of salvation to others!

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 10, 2024 Hungry for the Word.

I enjoyed good worship, prayer and a word from God this morning. Then Pastor started a message from Nehemiah 8. This narrative shifts from the building of the wall to the call to the people to spiritual focus as they return from captivity. The people gathered and asked Ezra, the teacher of the law, to read the word of God. The people were eager, hungry, to hear the Word. Ezra read from early morning till midday and the people listened attentively. Nehemiah 8:1-3.

All scripture is given by God and is instructive and authoritative. 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Here are four reasons to hunger after the Word.

1. It teaches Doctrine – what we are to believe. We are disciples, not just experiencers or learners. Our spirit will respond to the Truth of the Word.
2. It is good for Reproof = examine, test, or bring to light areas that God wants us to work on. The Word is alive and powerful. Hebrew 4:12
3. It provides Correction and direction. That we might not sin against God. Psalm 119:10-11.
4. It guides us in Righteousness. It teaches us how to be in right relationship with the Lord.

They worshiped with the Word. They stood in reference. Ezra praised. They bowed and worshipped. Nehemiah 8:5-6. They came with expectation. Reading the Word should be a worship event. The Levites helped to instruct so the people could understand. Nehemiah 8:7-8. The people were weeping because of the sin of the past. But the leaders proclaimed the day “Holy” and said, ‘do not grieve.’ Nehemiah 8:9-10. “For the joy of the Lord is your strength.” V10. Serving the Lord in obedience brings joy.

“…to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Deuteronomy 8:1-3.

This wasn’t my initial song choice, but after listening to it I chose it for the Joy is my Strength and Praise.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 8:1-3, part of 10 NIV
1 all the people came together as one in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the teacher of the Law to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded for Israel.
2 So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. 3 He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.
10. ... Do not grieve, For The Joy Of The Lord Is Your Strength."

Lord, please keep me hungry for Your Word so I might know You better, be closer to You, and do Your Will.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 3, 2024 - Not Like Many.

I was so happy to have my eldest granddaughter (16) attend church with me this morning.
This morning was Mission Sunday where the young children in BGMC collect change (and dollars) for missions around the world. Among these missions that received funds is the Convoy of Hope which has been to our own community, for Hurricane Michael in 2018 and again last month for the tornado that ravaged homes in our community.

Pastor continued his messages from Nehemiah with a sermon from Nehemiah 7:1-5 which he titled “Not Like Many”. The book of Nehemiah was written by Ezra and tells of the remnant returning to rebuild. These actions are the fulfillment of prophecies given by Isaiah and Jeremiah. We are reminded that the rebuild doesn't look like the way it was. It is a new season.

The enemy continues to obstruct the efforts as he always does in three ways: criticism, confusion and discouragement.

God always makes a way for His will to be accomplished. He who has begun a good work will be faithful to complete it. Philippians 1:6.

As the wall was being completed, Nehemiah looked to appoint leaders to continue the work; who could be entrusted with God's work. The man is described as “a faithful man and honored God with fear more than many.” Nehemiah 7:2 NLV. A faithful, trustworthy man; more than the many. Faithful means consistent, honest, and stable, with integrity. The job was not for doubters or the wishy-washy. God wants men who will be good and faithful servants. Matthew 25:21.
The trusted leaders were faithful, trusting God. and God-fearing, not man-fearing.
The mother of Zebedee’s sons asked for favorable position for her sons. But Jesus responds that “Whoever wants to be first among you, let him be your servant.” Matthew 20:20-28.

Nehemiah was a servant leader. He chose others who were faithful and God fearing.
Leaders, 1 Timothy 1:18-19; and helpers, 1 Timothy 3:9-10. Titus 1:7-9.
The work that God has done is too precious to leave in the hands of those who aren't faithful and God fearing. It is certain that the enemy will come back. Good leaders are to guard the work. Nehemiah 7:3.

The city large, but people were few, no houses rebuilt. Nehemiah 7:4. God was looking for a remnant. He will work through the remnant.

God provides the vision, not man. God ‘put it into [the] heart’ of Nehemiah to take gather the people and note their names. Nehemiah 7:5.  How did he hear from God? Nehemiah was praying. It is hard to be spirit-filled if we are not in prayer. Worshipping is more than music. Our honor to God should be from our hearts, it should be spirit worship. Seek Him in secret and He will use you.

God sees everyone. No one is beyond His sight and notice. Everyone has a place. We all have a part in the Kingdom. A broken bone/body part hurts the whole. When a member is broken it hurts the whole Kingdom.

I like this song video for today.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 7:1-2 New Life Version
7 When the wall was built and I had set up the doors, and the gate-keepers and singers and Levites were chosen, 2 I gave my brother Hanani, and Hanaiah the captain of the strong place, the work of watching over Jerusalem. For he was a faithful man and honored God with fear more than many.


Lord, I pray that you direct a strong remnant to complete your good work!

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 25, 2024 - Do the Work With God.

Pastor continued his series today in Nehemiah with Chapter 6. The enemy is pressuring Nehemiah. The enemy seeks to stop God’s plan – then and now.

Beware as some of God’s enemies have silver tongues and appear harmless or good. But a discerning spirit will sense something wrong. Enemies can have a good reputation. They want to get their agenda done. Nehemiah 6:17. They made their attack personal. The enemy will destroy you with distraction and negative thoughts.

The enemy tried to call Nehemiah out four times but he refused to leave the work to go to their meeting. They were attacking his integrity. Nehemiah 6:5-7. The enemy will accuse others of motives they have (transference). Titus 1:15.

Nehemiah resisted the challenges and impulse to fight them directly. Nehemiah 6:8. Don’t take vengeance in your own hands. Stick with your job and let God deal with the enemy. Our job is to build the Kingdom: win the lost, minister love and peace; share the hope of Christ. Don’t get caught up so you become more political than spiritual.

They used intimidation. Nehemiah 6:9-10, 17-18. Nehemiah said, “No.” Nehemiah 6:11-14. Sometimes the enemy uses false prophets. Shemiah was a false prophet encouraging Nehemiah to go into the temple when he was not sanctioned to do so. We must be discerning. People who lack wisdom can be led astray. 2 Timothy 3:1-7.

Nehemiah prayed each time and asked God to give him wisdom and strength and for God to deal with the enemy. The work was accomplished with the help of God. Nehemiah 6:16. We are to set our mind on the work of God, not the work of the world. 2 Timothy 3:12-15.

There are evil people and agendas surrounding us. The church has to do its mission in order to show the enemy that the work of God is being done with His help. You will reap a harvest… keep on focusing on God’s work. God knows there is opposition, but He says continue to follow me and do my Will. He will handle the enemy but wants His followers to show His love and life.

We will ultimately win on our knees, not in the political battle. Pray – intercede for those who may be under attack. God will win!

I like this song for today: The Battle is Yours.

A Verse for Today:
Nehemiah 6:16 NIV
16 When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God.


Lord, help me stay focused on Your Will, to do your work and trust you to win the battles.

Sunday Word's of Encouragement February 18, 2024 - Give and Do Good.

We started today’s service with warm worship. Prayer for each other’s needs – peace, direction, healing, strength… Your Will Be Done!

Today’s sermon was inspired by the scripture Nehemiah 5:1-6.
In addition to the physical building, there is need for a spiritual rebuilding. The poor were being exploited by the leaders charging interest. There came a great cry. God hears our cries. Isaiah 59:1.

We live in a culture that is greedy. We have to learn to be content and not seek more over seeking to give to help others. We brought nothing into this world, and we can take nothing out. 1 Timothy 6:10. We are not to be haughty in our wealth. 1 Timothy 6:17.
God wants us to increase our status of giving, not our status of living. 1 Timothy 6:18-19. It is a Christian process to give. Acts 2:43-45.

What you are giving may be the answer to someone else’s prayer.
This is when we are generous givers:
1. Give away more than you spend on luxuries like automobiles, vacations.
2. You view your resources as tools to do good works for the kingdom so that God is glorified.
3. You are more blessed when you give than receive.

He who knows the right thing and doesn’t do it, to him it is sin. James 4:17. Fear of God is a key to keep you doing right
Even if someone isn’t a good steward and doesn’t take care of the gifts, we don’t get to choose. God is the judge and he calls us to be generous.

I chose this song for today: Everlasting God!

Verses for Today
Nehemiah 5:1-6:14 NIV
Nehemiah Helps the Poor
5 Now the men and their wives raised a great outcry against their fellow Jews. 2 Some were saying, “We and our sons and daughters are numerous; in order for us to eat and stay alive, we must get grain.”
3 Others were saying, “We are mortgaging our fields, our vineyards and our homes to get grain during the famine.”
4 Still others were saying, “We have had to borrow money to pay the king’s tax on our fields and vineyards. 5 Although we are of the same flesh and blood as our fellow Jews and though our children are as good as theirs, yet we have to subject our sons and daughters to slavery. Some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but we are powerless, because our fields and our vineyards belong to others.”
6 When I heard their outcry and these charges, I was very angry.


Lord, help me to be mindful of the needs of others and help me to give generously of my resources.

(Image found at YouVersion Study)

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 11, 2024 - Rebuke Discouragement.

This morning our church shared communion. Pastor continued his sermon series in Nehemiah. This week we are in Nehemiah 4 where the Israelites faced opposition and discouragement.
The people were hearing grumblings and they were complaining. Faith comes by hearing! Romans 10:17. What you listen to effects your believe system. Discouragement changes your perspective. Don’t believe the world or the enemy that says that people won’t be saved, that our society is too far gone. Don’t let the propaganda of the enemy discourage you. Focus on God.

Pastor shared experience when he was aged 28-30 when he suffered severe back pain from injury in a car accident (not his fault). Doctor told him his lower discs were gone, he had bone on bone and couldn’t lift more than 20 pounds, couldn’t play golf, or play ball with his young sons. Devil started to threaten him saying, “I will have your ministry. You will be in a wheelchair and unable to minister with energy. You won’t be able to play with your kids.” He began to believe these lies. He asked friends for prayer and they gave him scriptures passages that encouraged Dodie Osteen. He put his focus on God and overcame the discouragement. To this day he has not had surgery, although he does have pain now and then.

I have a similar situation as I was diagnosed with crushed discs in 2000. I prayed to God to take it away or at least control the pain. Except for a few episodes (less than 10 in 23 years), I have had minimal pain! I am careful not to twist and if I get tired, I might feel pain as it attacks my week spot. I’ve learned to stretch carefully but otherwise I give thanks to God for removing that pain.

Without hope, we lose faith. Complaining is a symptom of discouragement. The enemy kept pressing in on the Israelites. Nehemiah 4:11. We are all in spiritual warfare and the enemy will push whenever there is an opening. Don’t let the enemy lie to you. Focus on God and the good deeds he has already done and trust that He will do more as he has promised.

Discouragement breeds fear. Nehemiah 4:12. Faith is necessary to please God and do his mission. Hebrews 11. Nehemiah resisted the discouragement and pressed on to fulfill God’s plan. Nehemiah 4:13-15.

Know where you are weak so you can shore up those spots; set a guard at the low places.
You are not beyond failure. Protect your walk with God. Galatians 6:1. My help comes from God. Psalm 121:1-8. Magnify the Lord with me! Psalm 34:3-5.

Don’t let fear or discouragement control your mind or heart. Remember God! 1 John 4:4; Romans 8:31; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. We do not have power within ourselves. But through God we have ability to bring the discouraging thoughts into captivity.

Discouragement brings fear, encouragement brings faith. Seek the Lord who gives you rest. Matthew 11-28. Encourage others.

When the enemy sees your faith, their plans are frustrated by God. Nehemiah 4:15. God expects us to overcome obstacles because He is working it our for our favor. Hebrews 12:2.  Find your place in the Kingdom. Finish the assignment God has for you.

I found this beautiful song video for today: Fear Is Not My Future by Maverick City Music.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 4:10-15 NIV.
10 Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.”
11 Also our enemies said, “Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and will kill them and put an end to the work.”
12 Then the Jews who lived near them came and told us ten times over, “Wherever you turn, they will attack us.”
13 Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears and bows. 14 After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
15 When our enemies heard that we were aware of their plot and that God had frustrated it, we all returned to the wall, each to our own work.


Lord. I am so thankful that You are so faithful. I turn away from fear and discouragement and remember You are in control!

Destroying your discouragement.
Nehemiah 4:10-15

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 28, 2024 - What is Your Condition?

I don’t have water this weekend as my well pump went out Saturday afternoon when we had another storm and power outage. Fortunately, my well man checked it today and will fix it in a day or two.

I pulled these notes from our Sunday School Teacher’s message in June. During that month we were focusing on movement of youth around the world. Some SS members noted how the OU women's softball team gave thanks and testimony. We need to recognize our joy comes from the Lord. Lift our eyes up to Christ and give Glory to God.  We pray that the Lord raise up a standard!

Our teacher’s message was “I just dropped in to see what condition my condition is” (Song by Kenny Rogers.)
Our condition is beyond just physical. It is emotional, political, and Spiritual, tied up in our personal, family, social, and work settings . What is “conditioning”? Think of things we connect to condition: hair, air, wood. The purpose of conditioning is reinforcement. We adapt, modify, or mold to be conformed.

Our world is being conformed. Christ followers need the precaution to watch, check up on our condition. Determining illness is not always simple. It takes more than self-examination. Many people act with wrong, secret motives. Jeremiah 17:9-10.

Paul recognized that he had feelings that drew him to this life and other feelings that drew him to eternal life with God. He couldn’t trust his own feelings. Philippians 1:20-26. The heart can deceive but Spirit can reveal. We are told to be careful of judging others when we have our own blind visions. Matthew 7:1-5.

Too much propaganda in this world is directed to turn us against each other. Jeremiah 13:10-11.  What we allow in our eyes and ears is processed in the soul. We need to discipline ourselves to run the race God has set for us. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.

Check for weaknesses: Superman’s kryptonite, Samson’s hair. Judges 16. Popeye needed spinach, not extra hamburgers.

Have we clothed ourselves with our Spiritual tights and capes? God's armor. Ephesians 6:10-18.
Revelation speaks to seven churches and five get a bad diagnosis. They don't see their true condition.

Be diligent and turn away from your indifference. Find others, like a small group, to keep you accountable. Do not be conformed to this World.

I like this song for this message: All the Pretty Things. 

Verses for Today:
Jeremiah 13:10-11  NIV
10 These wicked people, who refuse to listen to my words, who follow the stubbornness of their hearts and go after other gods to serve and worship them, will be like this belt—completely useless! 11 For as a belt is bound around the waist, so I bound all the people of Israel and all the people of Judah to me,’ declares the Lord, ‘to be my people for my renown and praise and honor. But they have not listened.’

Lord, help me to focus on You and Your Will. Help me remember that the things of this world are fading in the light of eternity.

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 21, 2024 - Take Your Place At the Wall!

I enjoyed our worship praise the morning and a wonderful sermon by our Pastor. Before the service he noted: “When we give and serve it is an act of worship. Be thankful in giving.”

Today Pastor taught on Nehemiah 3. I developed the title from my notes: Take Your Place At the Wall!

Nehemiah 3 starts by naming families working side by side all along the walls of the City. We all know that genealogies can be boring as we read the Bible. But they are part of inspired Scripture. Why is this important? The scripture here shows us that God notices everyone doing the work.

Nehemiah tells the story of rebuilding and reviving… restoration. Both the northern and southern kingdoms sinned and went into exile. Now God is having them return. God is in the business of restoration. Jerusalem has to be rebuilt to be part of the prophecy of Jesus riding into city.

Luke 2:19 tells believers to occupy until He returns. We are to be about His business which is important to remember as we go about whatever business He has called and prepared us to do in life. God wants a gorgeous, radiant church upon His return. Ephesians 5:27, Ephesians 3:20.

We - the local church and The Global Church - need rebuilding. We need to be a life growing church. Philippians 2:14-16. Christians are to be salt and light which are agents of change. The Church needs good seasoning. Peace and presence should be with the Christ followers and noticeable to those around them.

Serve as the Church, not just in the Church. We need to be getting the Church ready for the return of Christ, working towards Kingdom expansion. Make a list of those you want to find Jesus and pray for them.

Nehemiah had a mind and burden to rise up and build. The Church is stronger when each is doing their part of the work. Each person has a place to work. Each of us needs to take our place on the wall. Even at the Dung Gate. The body needs each part, including armpits. We each have unique gifts and placement.

God notices. He noticed the families working on the wall. He noticed the widow who gave her last two coins. He noticed the sacrificial gift of perfume by Mary Magellan.

The modern world today’s focus on consumerism is an obstacle to God’s work. We are to be servants and we need to “improve our serve” (Chuck Swindoll).

We serve by:

 Giving. The Church needs leaders and supplies.
 Encouraging; lifting up each other from the leaders to the janitor and the person who arranges the flowers – all tasks.
 Praying. Become an intercessor praying for each other.
 Prioritize your sacrifice. The Sheep Gate where sacrifice and worship occurred was the first area to be worked on. We are living sacrifice to be giving to God. Do it unto God.

God Notices. Serve. Build the Kingdom.

In Haggai 1:2 The Lord questions why the people rebuilt their homes first instead of the house of the Lord. The people were called to repair throughout Nehemiah 3. Sooner rebuild, sooner repair. Repair is to necessarily to restore but to fix and make strong.

The rebuilding will be greater than it was before. The glory of the latter house will v exceed the glory of the former. Haggai 2:9.

Our churches need to be about “presence” not presentation.

Do we want Him, His Kingdom, His glorious presence? Start with revival at home and beyond.

I like this video song for today: These Days by Jeremy Camp

 

Verses for Today
Nehemiah 3:4-5 NIV
4 Meremoth son of Uriah, the son of Hakkoz, repaired the next section. Next to him Meshullam son of Berekiah, the son of Meshezabel, made repairs, and next to him Zadok son of Baana also made repairs. 5 The next section was repaired by the men of Tekoa, but their nobles would not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors.

Lord, guide me and help me take my place at the wall!

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 14, 2024 - Pray and Be Bold!

Pastor preached and prayed this morning from Nehemiah 2 - Pray and Be Bold.
God had placed a burden on Nehemiah’s heart. It wasn’t a fleeting idea. Four months after Nehemiah 1, the king noticed Nehemiah wasn’t ‘good’ – his visage showed his sadness. Along with the burden, Nehemiah prayed. He prayed boldly and he walked in boldness.

It takes boldness to submit to God to fulfill the burden. Nehemiah was able to move out with confidence and boldness that God was with him. There will be opposition.

Nehemiah secretly went at night to inspect the gates. He had to wait for the right time to share his plans with others. Sometimes God puts you in a holding pattern for where you have to land and connect. Both the “ground” and the plane have to be ready at the same time.

The good (or gracious) hand of God was on him v 8 and v 18. God wants you to tell others how good God has been to you. The people responded, “Let us start rebuilding.” When one member doesn’t do what they should, it hurts the whole work. Don’t be just consumers but be the server doing the work.

The enemy’s attacks will increase as you start the work. Nehemiah continues to pray to keep his motives right. This isn’t about the king (or the church), it’s about God. Rebuke the opposition and the enemy with God’s strength. We put the enemy in his place when we are following God’s Will.

Pray to rebuild and revive. Lord you do the work through us. Breathe the breath of the Spirit over us.

I liked this song for this message: Our God Will Go Before Us.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 2:16-20
16 The officials did not know where I had gone or what I was doing, because as yet I had said nothing to the Jews or the priests or nobles or officials or any others who would be doing the work.
17 Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” 18 I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me.
They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.
19 But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official and Geshem the Arab heard about it, they mocked and ridiculed us. “What is this you are doing?” they asked. “Are you rebelling against the king?”
20 I answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.”


Almighty God, thank you for holding me in your gracious hand. May I always look to You and be willing to do the work You direct.

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 7, 2024 - Burden and Prayer.

We shared in worship and giving and then our Pastor shared the message: A Burden and a Prayer from Nehemiah 1. The message of Nehemiah is to “Revive and Rebuild”. We are beginning a time of fasting and we need to understand how and why.

Take stock of who and where you are. Make an accurate assessment of your condition. Get a real, realistic, report of where you are.
A lost soul can’t be saved until they admit they need a savior.
A change can’t be made until you admit there is a need for a change.
If we look realistically, most of us will realize that we are not where we ought to be. The Church, locally, nationally, and globally, is not where it needs to be. People need to see that they need God.

Don’t focus on what you are hungry for but focus on what God wants. Revival comes when we seek the face and will of God, the Kingdom of God. If you are ready to stop being a “status quo” Christian, fast and seek God’s will.

Nehemiah 1:5-11. Nehimiah prayed day and night. First Nehimiah acknowledges God’s power and greatness. Then he acknowledges the sin of the people, including himself. Then he reminds God of His own word - that God agreed to be merciful and deliver those who turn back to God and obey His commands.

Nehimiah recognized that the Israelites had been scattered due to their unfaithfulness. Now he wants to lead the remnant in being obedient. Nehimiah went to the eternal king before he went to the earthly king to ask permission to go and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

Stand on the promises of God. Ask God to work in you to remove the disobedient and renew the right spirit. When we mean business with God, He is ready to mean business with us.
God does more abundantly than we can even ask. Ephesians 3:20.
God has more for us and our community than we know.

Declare a Holy fast.
1. God search me and convict me of things to remove from my life.
2. Consecrate our fast to God. God show me what sacrifice you want from me.
3. Ask God for your personal needs and for revival in our church and community.

If God is going to do it, take your hand off of it!

I like this song video for today: God of Revival.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 1:4-9 NIV
4 When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. 5 Then I said:
“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.
8 “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, 9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’


Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, please show me what to sacrifice in my life for you and show me Your will!

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 31, 2023: Give, Pray, Fast!

We started the service with lovely worship. Then Pastor shared his message from Matthew 6:1-21. Give, Pray, and Fast.
Our church participates in 21 days prayer and fasting which will start a week. Pastor reminded us that God still works, so get ready for 21.

God calls us to righteousness not justice. He expects us to do the right things. He doesn’t ask us,
God tells us.
V2 When you give to the needy (alms)…
V5 -7 When you pray…
V 16 When you fast…
V19-21 where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

God does things in His timing. He rewards obedience.

Giving to others in need puts money in its place. Our heart goes where we spend time or invest.

Pray in secret place. Public spiritually is an offshoot of private spiritual life. Prayer is a conversation with God. Simplicity is recommended.

V9 Jesus gave us the model prayer, The Lord’s Prayer. Prayer aligns us in God's will in mercy and grace. Pray puts our will in place with His Will.

Fasting is giving up food. Fasting puts flesh in place. Be mindful when you are fasting to invest the time in the Kingdom – read and study scripture, listen to praise and worship. Fasting is the intentional practice of acknowledging our weaknesses and relying upon God's grace.

Consider your time, talent, and treasure. We are made to give from our overflow so we must be filled spiritually to do this. Psalm 23:5 …my cup overflows.

I found this video song to fit today’s message. Walk With Jesus.

Verses for Today:
Matthew 6:19-21 ESV
19 “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.


Lord, help me each day to follow your command to Seek You First.

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 24, 2023 - Remember the Gift!

Happy Christmas Eve!
I was directed to read Luke 2 by YouVersion and my plan in YouVersion. Then Pastor gave a message from this scripture too. He focused on verses 19-20.

19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Mary remembered these things all her life. Her child was the son of God as foretold. He was worthy to be glorified. His gift to all people is worth remembering!

Jesus came to us as a baby but He stayed as a Savior! Come, Let us Adore Him!!

I found this meaningful song for today: The Manger

Verses for Today: Luke 2:19-20
19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Father God, Lord Jesus – thank you for the gift of humility and salvation.

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 17, 2023 - A Promise of Joy!

I made it to church today! There was a wonderful children’s program, The Promise of Christmas. God fulfilled His promise to man by providing salvation and a King through Jesus Christ. It was a wonderfully sweet program.

Pastor shared a few words from Matthew 1:24-25. 'They called his name Emmanuel, which means God with us.' Jesus came to save his people from their sin.

Jesus was not born of sinful nature but born of the life-giving Spirit. God did it for the love of ALL people. Yes, you and me, but He came for the “whole world”. John 3:16-17.

We have broken DNA. Habitual sin, addiction, and deliberate sin. Jesus had none of these. His blood was the atonement for our sins. The Father’s love, and the son’s sacrifice give each person the opportunity to have eternal life. John 3:18-21.

Not everyone knows the message. Not everyone will accept the message. But those who do believe have the directive to share with others the promise and the hope that brings the greatest of all joys!

I like this song video for today: The Shepherd’s Song! “The Joyous Refrain.”

Verses for Today:
John 3:16 New International Version
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. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.


I give thanks to a Father who loves the world and a Son who gives the greatest gift, and to the Spirit who speaks within my soul.

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 10, 2023 - Divine Interruption!

We shared worship and Christmas songs this morning. Pastor’s message was from Matthew 18-25. 

“Divine Interruption!”

As Matthew notes, Mary and Joseph were told of the child and to name him Jesus, God saves; Immanuel, God with us.

 Joseph and Mary were betrothed. In those days, the betrothal was one year leading up to the marriage. After learning that Mary was with child, Joseph could have divorced her publicly but he was thinking of doing so quietly. Joseph was a just man, a law-abiding man. He had a good relationship with God.

2 Timothy 2:20-21 Tells us that those who cleanse themselves from dishonor can become honorable, just vessels.

Joseph and other Biblical stories, as well as testimonies today, show that life can change due to a divine encounter or divine interruption.

James 4:13-15 speaks of human plans being disrupted by divine interruption.
Joseph was called by a divine interruption to be the earthly father of Jesus. He stayed with Mary and fulfilled his role as God directed.

I remembered this song which fits today. Joseph’s Lullaby.

Verses for Today:
Matthew 18-25 NIV
18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
20 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, because he will save his people from their sins.”
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

Lord, thank you for the divine interruption that allowed Joseph to accept Mary and take on the role as the father of Jesus. And thank you for our Immanuel!

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 3, 2023 - Unlikely People.

I attended church online this morning. Pastor delivered a message from Matthew 1:1 regarding the genealogy of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 1:1 NIV
1 This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:

The message noted that God uses unusual, unlikely, and imperfect people. When you review the genealogy of Christ, there are some surprises.

V3: Tamar engaged in deliberate sin to disguise herself as a prostitute and have sex and bear a child by her father-in-law.
V5: Rahab was not of the Israelite tribe, and she was a prostitute. But she helped the Israelite spies escape from Jericho.

This is not a family line you would boast about. But it shows that God can use those with “junk” and failure in their past. God is in the business of redemption and restoration.
We have an advocate with the father, and he restores us to a right relationship.

V5: Ruth, the Moabite, follows Naomi back to Israel. She marries Boaz and is part of the ancestry of Christ. Moabites were dark, descendants of Lots daughters. There line was started by incestuous relationship.

V6: The wife of Uriah – Bathsheba. David took another man’s wife in adultery, then killed her husband. The first child died but she gave birth to Solomon who is in the ancestry line.

V16: Mary was a teenage mother.

Even in the apostles it is clear that God uses unlikely people to do His work. God redeems human weaknesses which He then uses for His Glory. How many of us need to move beyond the failures of our past to allow God to use us now for His purposes.

We are mindful too that today is the first Sunday of Advent – the week of Hope.
This video song speaks to both the message of God’s work in us and our hope for the future:
Fear is Not My Future.

A Verse for Today:
Matthew 1:1 NIV
1 This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:


Lord, I am thankful that You use unlikely people. I am especially thankful that you redeem our past and give us a new future and a Hope!

Sunday Words of Encouragement November 19, 2023 - What is Your Impact?

This Sunday my son’s pastor shared about their mission trip to Kenya last month. They were equipping pastors and Sunday School teachers. The focus being on: What kind of impact will I make? And What kind of impact will the local church make?

The purpose of the missions is not about the leaders individually, but about God being glorified.
They shared the message of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-37.
1. What did you like about the lesson? (That the Samaritan helped the injured man.)
2. What didn’t you like? (How the priest and Levite walked by and didn't help.)
3. Where do you see Jesu (Jesus) in the lesson? (In the actions of the Samaritan.)
4. How can you apply the lesson in your own life? (Help others, even strangers.)

The Sunday School students were taught the “Why” of the lesson and the “How”. They use everyday items (recycling) that they have on hand.
They shared simple crafts, memory game, and things like the armor of God.
Each of the eight members of the team went off to different churches to share. This made the senior pastors a little nervous to watch their spouses go off in strange cars to places unknown. Pastor said they could either “Feed the fear or feed the faith.” So they chose to trust in God and the Bishop of the area.

We all have an impact on others. Will it be a good or bad impact? More importantly will it be the only impact that counts? An impact that is eternal for the Glory of God. Showing Christ to others. 2 Corinthians 2:15-17.

Be sincere and loving. Put the good word of God to work within yourself and share it wherever you go. We are each stinky in our sinful nature. But God in us is a good aroma. Let us have eternal impact at all levels: family, friends, school, work, and community. Personal relationship.

I like this song for today’s message: Until the Whole World Hears.

Verses for Today:
2 Corinthians 2:15-17 NIV
15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? 17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.

Lord, let my life point to you so others see more of You and less of me.

Sunday Words of Encouragement November 12, 2023 - Serving in Action.

I am attending church with my son and family while in Illinois. His pastor and wife just returned from a missions trip to Africa where one of the local ministers, even in a situation of having little, noted: “We are blessed and we need to bless others.” The pastor then prayed over many Samaritan boxes that had been gathered by the church and will be mailed to bless children around the world.

The message was presented by a female Veteran. She noted that female veterans may often be overlooked. She served 30 years ago and has had to mourn the deaths of coworkers over the years. She learned last year as she had a series of losses that, ever (or especially) when mourning people others don't know, we shouldn’t mourn on own. It is an unhealthy place to bear losses alone. We are better off acknowledging and being accountable for the pain.

Veterans started their time of service by saying goodbye to families and friends. Once established in their new surroundings, they made new families and friends. They fought for freedoms, some at home and some in the field. Some faced emotional warfare, while others faced physical warfare. Most veterans share an unspoken bond. The Veteran honors did not come for free but had to be earned. Veterans go through huge changes in their lifestyles. Each veteran should stand tall and be proud. And we should all give thanks for the service of veterans and families.

The message then incorporated the lessons that have been the focus for the past several weeks: the Language of Worship. First there was Prayer as worship; then Praise; then reading the Word;
Serving, and finally, Giving. This week’s focus is on Serving. Even the Son of man, Jesus, came not to be served, but to serve. Mark 10:45. Acknowledge God and serve.
We are to be living stones to build into a spiritual house. 1 Peter 2:5.
Use the gifts of the spirit to build up the church. 1 Corinthians 14:10-12.
All Worship is a form of communicating with God. Ministry happens when we worship.

Even Jesus served for the Glory of God. He said in John 5:30 “By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.”

Military service teaches taught the speaker these lessons:
1. Respect for authority which is non-negotiable. Withholding respect is a slight on your character, not the leaders.
2. Most leaders lead with a big picture. Each person in the assignment has to determine the details. They have to learn to “do the next right thing”. Commit to the vision of the mission. The worker’s attitude has to come into adjustment to meet the assignment. Learn God’s mind and will for the assignment.

We are to serve rather than seek high position or honor. Mark 10:35-45. Serve with humility, not seeking honor. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10.
Serving with humility brings us to the foot of cross, to the Spirit of Christ.

I think this song fits today: Spirit Lead Me.

A Verse for Today:
Mark 10:45 NIV
45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Lord, help my attitude to seek Your Will for the every day assignments of my life.

Sunday Words of Encouragement October 29, 2023 "Discrimination and the Church"

I am still in Illinois and we go to church at 11am so the children can enjoy time in Kid's Church. I may be sharing some messages from past notes that I can prepare ahead of time.

Over the past several months our Sunday School teacher has been teaching from the Book of James. He titled his lesson from James 2 “Discrimination and the Church.”

Starting at James 1:26 to James 2:9, the teacher noted that favoritism breaks the royal law to love others as ourselves. Showing favoritism is sin. James 2:9. James is preaching with an evangelist’s heart, not a pastor's heart. He tells us all that we must be careful not to judge by outward appearance.

When we judge others, we may be judges with evil motives. James 2:4. But we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. James 2:8.

Each person has a gift they bring to the whole body. Romans 12:3-8. We must learn to intentionally accept others. Cloak yourself with tender hearted mercy and make allowance for others’ faults. Colossians 3:10-15.

Often it takes extra effort to know others, like in small groups and times of fellowship.
Apostle Paul tells us “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Romans 12:10.

The church should be one body with no division, no distinction. We are to take care of the full body [of believers]. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. Love strengthens the church.
What the world needs now is love.... God says I am love. It is one of the best known characteristics of God. And remember that “Love” is an action. Romans 12:9-16.

I found this song video that is wonderful. That's What Love Looks Like

Verses for Today:
James 2:1-9
1 My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.


Lord, it is not always a natural inclination, so please guide me to Love others in an active way.