Newland Christian Church: Recent Episodes
Newland Christian Church
"The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." - Mark 1:1
Mark wrote a "Gospel". As did Matthew, Luke, and John. The term literally means "good news". It means that Mark, as well as the other Gospel writers simply had a story to tell. Why is it that our anger keeps us from telling a joyful story sometimes? What keeps us from joyfully recounting the good news of our encounter with Jesus?
GO DEEPER: Psalm 96:1-13
Jesus said to His followers that they would be witnesses, but what did He mean? He means someone who is willing to talk about and share the news of their encounter with Jesus.
"About noon as I came near Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me. I fell to the ground and heard a voice." - Paul (Acts 22:6-7)
GO DEEPER: Acts 22:1-21
"Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full - pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." - Luke 6:38
God honors a cheerful giver...but our motives are everything. Why are you giving? Is it because you want to receive more back than you give? That is the wrong reason to be giving...may we give without ulterior motive.
GO DEEPER: Mark 12:41-44
The most we will find in God's Word on giving is found in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9. Paul commends the Macedonian Christians for their cheerful and sacrificial work of giving. What motivated them?
"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." - 2 Corinthians 9:7
Is giving joyful for you?
GO DEEPER: 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; 9:6-8
"Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce." - Proverbs 3:9
Generosity is clearly one of the marks of a devoted follower of Christ, but where should our support be given?
How can we best serve through giving today?
GO DEEPER: 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19
"The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord, and King David was filled with joy." - 1 Chronicles 29:9
Israelites were required a tithe (usually a tenth) of their yearly wage, another for a holy festival, and another every three years...but Jesus emphasized that it must also be accompanied by a spirit of generosity. What maybe should be our driving force is not so much what we should give, but what should we keep?
GO DEEPER: Malachi 3:6-12
God doesn't need our money...He owns everything. So why do we give?
"...remembering the words the Lord Jesus Himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" - Acts 20:35
GO DEEPER: Matthew 7:7-11
Sunday Sermon from January 23, 2022.
Pastor Phillip dives into the story of the woman at the well. Looking at what we can learn when we just come to the well. We are invited in, by the One who can offer us LIVING water!
In ancient times, most families had a steward to keep the property. Peter uses this example to demonstrate how we should be about the gifts that God has bestowed upon us.
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." - 1 Peter 4:10
GO DEEPER: 1 Peter 4:8-11
"On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable." - 1 Corinthians 12:22
Some gifts are amazing to see, but not all gifts are public. Sometimes its the little things that make the biggest difference.
Sometimes we must serve in obscurity.
GO DEEPER: Matthew 25:31-46
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares, "I will build my church." How? With the gifts that He has bestowed on each of us! God has gifted each of us for the benefit of the Kingdom.
"Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." - 1 Corinthians 12:7
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 4:1-16
"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them." - 1 Corinthians 12:4
Any gathering of people is a miracle of sorts. Just think about it: Within a gathered group of people there are so many who possess different gifts and abilities that all can benefit the whole. It is amazing the gifts we have been given.
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 12:4-8
"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 in your master's happiness.'" - Matthew 25:21
There is tired. Exhaustion from doing and feeling run down and broken because we are drained...
And then, there is tired. Tired, but blessed because what we were doing was serving and there is a joy that comes from the Lord.
GO DEEPER: Matthew 25:14-30
A hundred things can happen when you serve...and some of those things are not good. People misunderstand intentions, they attack motive, and they leave you feeling that you may not make a difference. Paul reminds us that what can keep us going is that our mission is to exalt the name of Jesus. He reminded Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:10-13 that he was willing to endure anything that would lead to someone finding salvation in Christ.
WOW! Are we the same?
"I served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the midst of severe testing by the plots of my Jewish opponents." - Acts 20:19
GO DEEPER: Isaiah 40:28-31; Philippians 4:12-13
Sunday Sermon from January 16, 2022 based in Luke 19:1-10.
Pastor Phillip takes a deep look at what we can learn from the actions of Zacchaeus and his approach to seeing and encountering Jesus. It might just leave you wanting to climb a tree!
"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." - Mark 10:45
Jesus came to earth humbly. No lavish lifestyle. He didn't walk around telling others He was better than them or too good to do small tasks...He got right in and did what needed to be done. He constantly met others where they were, on their level, and He has given us the same mission.
What comes to mind when you hear "serve others?"
GO DEEPER: Mark 10:35-45
"He appointed twelve that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach." - Mark 3:14
Many of us as Christians adhere to the formula of doing for others. Missions, Feeding the Hungry, Youth Trips, etc., we are willing to jump in and do for others while missing the key part of what Jesus called the disciples to do...not just do for others, but to be with Him. We must spend extended time with the Savior.
How can we get to know what Jesus said and did, and imitate Him today?
GO DEEPER: John 15:1-8
"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you have a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." - Colossians 3:13
If you hang around "Church" folk long enough, they will cause you hurt. The longer you spend in anything the more you are guaranteed to have a bad experience. But...
When we have bad experiences, it is the way we respond that says a great deal about our relationship with Christ.
Have you been wounded? By whom? Have you wounded anyone else?
GO DEEPER: Colossians 3:1-17
Church attendance has been on a swift decline in the US over the last twenty or more years. "Christians" sporadically attend church, that is if they attend at all, and for a variety of different reasons. The teachings of Jesus and of the New Testament remind us that fellowship with fellow believers is important and needed.
"Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it." - 1 Corinthians 12:27
We are One body with many parts!
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
"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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." - Matthew 28:19-20
Jesus ministry on earth began with a call, "Come and be my disciples." He ended it with a command, "Go and make disciples." That should be our mission as the Church: to come and follow Him and to go and lead others to do the same.
Are you staying on mission?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 28:16-20
"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." - Matthew 16:18
Jesus had an earthly father, Joseph, who was a carpenter. There is a likelihood that Jesus also was a builder as He grew and matured. His greatest building project, however, is the Church. What can we learn from this today?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 16:13-18
Sunday Sermon from January 9, 2022 based in Luke 2:41-52.
What can we learn about the encounter that Mary and Joseph have with a 12-year old Jesus at the Temple? We can learn from their experience, recognizing that even at 12, Jesus was doing for us what we could not do for ourselves.
Join Pastor Phillip for a look at the encounter with Christ through the Temple experience from His childhood.
Our faith is personal...but it is not intended to be private! We need the fellowship of others as we strive to live a Christian life.
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another." - Hebrews 10:24-25
What can you do to ensure that you are consistently seeking to meet and encourage one another?
GO DEEPER: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." - James 1:22
Bible study isn't as complicated as we make it sound...in fact, three steps will make sure that our study is productive: Read. Engage. Apply.
Are you simply hearing the word? Or, are you engaging with it and applying it to your life?
GO DEEPER: James 1:22-27
"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." - 2 Timothy 2:15
Why is it that it seems that Christians and churches alike have trouble when it comes to interpretation? Our biggest troubles come from not seeking the One who can offer understanding and help us rightly divide the word.
Is there someone who could help you as you strive to grow in Christ?
GO DEEPER: Luke 24:36-42
"Blessed is the one...whose delight is in the Law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night." - Psalm 1:1-2
Some hear the word meditation and it immediately clouds their mind with new age and secular ideas...but meditation is good and is directed by the Word of God. We can meditate on His word, and find ways for it to speak directly to us. Go deeper into His word today!
What biblical truth would be good for you to chew on and absorb today?
GO DEEPER: Psalm 1:1-3
"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts." - Deuteronomy 6:6
It is important for us to put God's word on our hearts. When we are facing things in life that break us down and break our hearts open, when we have the Word of God on our hearts it will pour out in to the wound, helping to offset the struggles the world brings our way. Do you have scripture memorized? Are there some you would like to commit to memory?
GO DEEPER: Deuteronomy 6:1-9
"I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I have set my heart on your laws." - Psalm 119:30
How should we study the Bible? It is almost like asking how we should exercise. The answer depends on how healthy we wish to be. Proper training in our spiritual life must be done daily. We can grow if we are constantly seeking and truly searching to grow in His word.
What approach do you take to studying God's word?
GO DEEPER: Psalm 119:9-16, 25-32
Sunday Sermon based in John 8:1-8 from January 2, 2022.
What can we learn from the encounter of the Woman Caught in Adultery? How can her story guide us in our own encounter with Christ? We must remember that He wants to replace our guilt with His grace, and our shame with His salvation...He longs to make it personal with us.
It always starts with an encounter with Him.
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." - Romans 12:2
There is a way of reading and studying God's word that actually dishonors God. Don't believe it? Look at the Pharisees and Sadducees and how they handled the word of God. They knew it, and they used it to cast judgment and start arguments, totally missing the point!
If we are simply trying to look smart or win arguments...we have totally missed the point of God's word.
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 4:12-13
"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work." - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Many things are inspiring, but the Bible is INSPIRED! It is God's message to us!
GO DEEPER: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
"When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." - James 4:3
If we aren't careful we can present grocery lists to God rather than truly calling on Him for what we need, or what other's need for that matter. What if we quit hounding God for our wants and begin to pursue God for the needs we have?
What change is needed in your prayer life today?
GO DEEPER: James 4:1-3, 13-16
"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." - James 5:16
God is sovereign. He is ruler of all. And, the Scripture tells us, that we have a direct line to the One who is over all and in all! What a wonderful promise for us to see!
GO DEEPER: Luke 18:1-8
"Pray Continually." - 1 Thessalonians 5:17
When and where should we pray? Anywhere and everywhere! Prayer should be our regular appointment with God. A time when we ask Him to show us what He desires for us and for us to learn from His teachings.
Are there times when prayer feels weird? Why?
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 6:18-20
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done." - Philippians 4:6
If you are asking, "What should I talk to God about?" The answer is: whatever's on your heart! He wants to hear from you!
What do you need to talk to Him about today?
GO DEEPER: Psalm 17
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 50 from Sunday, December 26, 2021.
What can we learn from the end of Joseph's Life? What can we learn from the obedience to God that He calls us to. He will always return us to our proper place in His time.
We can learn to trust God, even when He has led us away from the comfort zone.
"This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.'" - Matthew 6:9
Prayer is our lifeline to God. Prayer is at worst still communication with God...and we need to be in communication with the Father.
What experiences have you had in prayer? Good? Bad? What would you like to talk with God about today?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 6:9-13
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." - Proverbs 4:23
We easily fall into the trap of obsession, not of obsessing over good things, but obsessing over the worldly things. Wrinkles, weight gain, clothing, hair, etc. The list could go on and on...and why? Why do we cause ourselves such grief?
What does it mean to "guard your heart"? How can you specifically guard yours today?
GO DEEPER: Proverbs 4:20-27
If you have played sports or competed in any type of sporting event you know all about training. Training improves your skills, stamina, and knowledge as you seek to get better over time, all in an effort to best produce when the time comes. Spiritually we need to do the same. Training through prayer, reading and studying the Word, and trusting in God to prepare you will grow you and strengthen you for the tests that may come.
"Train yourself to be godly." - 1 Timothy 4:7
GO DEEPER: 1 Timothy 4:7-10
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen." - 2 Peter 3:18
Life is about growth. Children are born, learn to walk, begin to grow out of their childish ways, and mature over time...it is how life progresses; and, in the same way, our spiritual walk should mimic that growth as well.
Where are you growing spiritually today, and where do you need to grow?
GO DEEPER: Philippians 1:4-6; 1 Peter 2:1-3
The word 'sheep' makes us sheepish when it comes to today's society? So what does it mean that Jesus calls us the sheep of his pasture and calls Himself the "Good Shepherd?" It means that He, the Shepherd, is willing to die for His sheep...He just wants us to follow Him.
"I am the Good Shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me." - John 10:14
Where do you feel the most vulnerable today? Cry out to Him.
GO DEEPER: John 10:1-18
"For we live by faith, not by sight." - 2 Corinthians 5:7
We have our first experience with Christ, and we remember the feelings...but too often we rely on our feelings rather than trusting the words of God. The Bible is alive, but sometimes trusting leaves us feeling alone in the process. Cry out to Him!
How are feelings both good and bad when it comes to your spiritual life?
GO DEEPER: Romans 8:31-39
Sunday Sermon from December 19, 2021 based in Genesis 49.
When we look to the Old Testament and examine the history of Israel, where do we see Jesus? Do we look for Him? Would we know Him if we see Him?
We must see Him in the History to know Him throughout. Every scripture points to Him!
Happy New Year.
"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." - 1 John 2:1
It is a case of why do I do the things I used to do...why can I not seem to put them aside. Learning takes time. Be patient. Keep the faith.
GO DEEPER: 1 Timothy 6:11-16
"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." - 2 Corinthians 13:14
While our faith is monotheistic, we serve a God who is One, but also Three...
We could spend our lives, trying (in vain) to understand the mystery of God...or we can just believe.
GO DEEPER: Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19; Mark 12:29; 1 Corinthians 8:6
Imagine taking a big exam that you haven't even had a class for...but imagine that you are overcome by the "spirit" of a great expert in the field...
While not a perfect analogy, this is what happens in our spiritual journey. The Holy Spirit is made available to us to tackle the tests of this life.
"But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you of all things and remind you of everything I have said to you." - Jesus (John 14:26)
GO DEEPER: John 14:15-26
Sometimes we miss what the Bible teaches because we get caught into cliché statements that tend to offer "good vibes" but not much theological basis. The Bible teaches us that we are only children of God when we believe in Christ and follow Him...so, we may not be as the old statement says, "all God's children." That is a title that is reserved for those who believe on Christ!
"To all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God." - John 1:12
GO DEEPER: John 3:1-8; Romans 8:14-17
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" - 2 Corinthians 5:17
Who doesn't love new stuff? We love that new car, new home, new technology or toys, and the list goes on and on. We absolutely love to get things new...and yet, we fail to see that our salvation is just like getting those new items! He has made us new...the old has gone! Welcome the new!
GO DEEPER: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
Most religious systems hold you to rules, but leave you questioning, essentially leaving you to think "good luck!" But Christianity shifts our focus to Christ, His sacrifice and redemption, and focuses us on what He did for us!
"[God] saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." - Titus 3:5
GO DEEPER: Galatians 2:15-21
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 47 from December 12, 2021.
We were created to work. Adam was given a job. The calling on our lives is to work for the Lord. It hasn't changed since the beginning...what has changed is that sin divided us from God. We have been instructed to not be idle...
Idleness is a sin, and one that will lead us into other sins, but how do we avoid it...we keep our minds on God!
“'The time has come,' He said. ' The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!'” - Mark 1:15
The word repent is a word full of hope. It means to “change your mind” and “to turn around.” Jesus literally calls us to rethink our lives.
GO DEEPER: Joel 2:12-17
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” - Ephesians 2:8-9
Biblical belief is more than believing in things we cannot see; it is more than hearing facts and agreeing; It involves personal trust that drives you to action.
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 2:1-9
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” - Romans 1:16
What is salvation? What have you been saved from? What do you need saved from?
GO DEEPER: Romans 10:9-13
“'Don't be alarmed,' he said. 'You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here.'” - Mark 16:6\
There are many theories about the empty tomb of Jesus, but the one that makes the most sense is that Jesus literally rose from the dead.
GO DEEPER: Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:36-47
If people were going to create a religion out of thin air, Christianity would not be that religion. Think about it...
“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.” - 1 Corinthians 1:18
GO DEEPER: John 3:14-18; 19:16-30
“The Lord saw … that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was on only evil all the time.” - Genesis 6:5
What the Bible reveals about us as humans is the ultimate “good news/bad news” situation. We bear the image of the Creator...but we are evil in our hearts. We can either rebel against God, or follow.
GO DEEPER: Genesis 1:26-27; 3:1-24
Sunday Sermon from December 5, 2021 based in Genesis 46.
God has a plan. The best news is that we are a part of that plan...
Sometimes He may call us out of a promise into an unknown, but is still saving the promise for us when the season passes. We must learn to trust Him through it all.
God has a plan...and you are in it!
“All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on Him the sins of us all.” - Isaiah 53:6
Human nature is to rank ourselves among those around us...where do we stand and how have we done “better” than someone else...yet sin is sin no matter how big...if you die without Christ you meet the same fate, even if you just told a lie while someone else committed murder.
GO DEEPER: Isaiah 53:1-6
“They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator – who is forever praised. Amen.” - Romans 1:25
Most people think of sin as a wrong act, and that isn't wrong...but it is superficial. The act of sin is the result of a much deeper condition within. It is our nature to sin...
We were made by God for God and nothing less than God will ever satisfy us.
GO DEEPER: Romans 1:18-25
“No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made Him known.” - John 1:18
The Bible unashamedly declares God exists...so why are there so many today who deny His existence? Who is God? He is the One Jesus came to reveal!
GO DEEPER: John 1:1-18
Jesus was a Jew...the son of Mary and Joseph, a poor couple in Nazareth of Galilee...and He was the image of the unseen God, reminding us that if we have seen Him we have seen the Father...Let's not take Him out like the civil and religious authorities did.
“Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through Him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth.” - Colossians 1:15-16
GO DEEPER: Luke 2:8-15
“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.” - Luke 6:40
Disciple is a churchy-sounding word...but what does it mean?
It means to be a student...to study, and mimic the teacher...and Jesus flipped the script on how a person becomes a disciple. What is the most exciting thing about Him calling us to be disciples? What is the most concerning?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 11:28-30
“'Come, follow me,' Jesus said.” - Mark 1:17
Why do we love reality TV? What is it about singing competitions, makeovers, home remodels, etc. that we find so fascinating? The change...
We always love a good story about change. That's the kind of thing we all look forward to, but only One can deliver the change we need! Jesus!
GO DEEPER: Mark 1:16-20
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 42-45.
PROGRAM NOTE: Due to circumstances during the week this message took a different turn and was delivered on Sunday, November 28 at 11 am. Our message audio had been a recording of the sermon notes from week to week, but due to the nature of this message, we have taken the audio and added it for you here to listen this week, as we will do over the coming weeks to make sure that you get the message that was shared in its entirety.
Pastor Phillip takes a look at when life takes turns we do not expect, diving into the story of Joseph and how his point of view was one of praising God through the trials and recognizing that God's plans will always be fulfilled...even when we cannot see the circumstances working out in the moment. What circumstances we do face are more in God's hands than we give credit for...
Join us in listening to the message of what God does even when we face the insurmountable odds.
"Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it." - Revelation 2:17
God has a name for you...and name only known to Him and one that will be revealed when that time comes! Praise God for your identity in Him.
GO DEEPER: Philippians 3:17-21
"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." - Hebrews 4:16
Remember the Wizard of Oz? If not, spoiler alert!
But what if someone could do all the Wizard promised and wasn't a fraud? They can! That someone is God...not only does He make promises to us, He keeps them!
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 4:14-16
Did you have an invisible friend growing up? What if you had one as an adult?
What if that friend was as strong as Samson? As wise as Solomon? Or, as present as the air you breathe? That friend is the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth!
GO DEEPER: Romans 8:1-17
"Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen." - 2 Peter 3:18
Listen to the story of the eagle egg that was misplaced...and hatched. If we never know who we are...we never realize the true potential within us!
GO DEEPER: 2 Peter 1:3-11
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." - 1 Peter 2:9
Something huge in our walk is that we are chosen, royal, and holy...and why? So that we may declare the praises of God!
GO DEEPER: Acts 5:33-42
When a player earns MVP honors, the best immediately deflect praise to their coaches and teammates who have battled beside them through the fight. It might seem cliché to do, but that's the best way...to recognize the need we have for community!
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." - 1 Thessalonians 5:11
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 10:23-25
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in the mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like." - James 1:22-24
Our greatest need is to remember who we are. Not who we think we are, but who we were created to be!
"It is my conviction that our heavenly Father says the same to us every day: 'My dear child, you must always remember who you are." - John Stott
GO DEEPER: 1 Chronicles 16:8-22 and Psalm 105
Life is a constant battle. Let's face it, we are at war! Just when things get quiet on one front, a bomb drops on another...and the cycle of warfare continues. In the midst of this battle, Paul reminds us:
"Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." - 1 Timothy 6:12
GO DEEPER: Psalm 18:37-49
"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. and so through Him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." - 2 Corinthians 1:20
There are anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 promises in Scripture...meaning that we have ample reason to live with confidence...even when we face adversity. In other words, do not forget that God keeps every promise He makes!
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 11:1-13
Due to a number of things that have been going on we have had to take a few days off of the podcast. Please go back and listen to past devotions, we hope to get them running again as soon as possible. Thank you for understanding!
"I cling to you; Your right hand upholds me." - Psalm 63:8
Have you ever done something that left you afterward thinking that every effort you made to save yourself in the situation was useless? I have.
Cling to the might, right hand of God today and know that He is the one who saves.
GO DEEPER: Isaiah 41:8-13
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised." - Hebrews 10:36
Listen to a short story about Kevin. Apply that to your spiritual life. Develop endurance to finish the race...
Show up. Open up. Look up.
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 12:1-3
"But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'" - James 4:6
We demonstrate humility by: Admitting we are stuck, Confessing our failures, and Acknowledging our need for divine help.
"Pride is the great sin." - C.S. Lewis
GO DEEPER: 1 Peter 3:8-12
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 42.
Pastor Phillip reveals the real, unwarranted, unwavering forgiveness of God through the story of Joseph seeing his brothers for the first time since he was sold into slavery. How beautiful is the love and mercy of our Father?
Join us.
"See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God's children -- and we are!" - 1 John 3:1a
"Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever." - Psalm 41:12
Are you able to handle things with integrity, even when it seems that things are disintegrating around you? Cry out to God and do not give up on moving forward in Him. He will offer wholeness in the midst of your brokenness. Don't disintegrate under the pressure of this world...
GO DEEPER: Job 2:1-10
"Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." - Luke 6:36
Mercy.
Giving someone grace when you are justifiable in treating them harshly. It involves forgiveness. Jesus instructs us to be merciful as God is merciful...but why is it so hard for us to treat ourselves in the same manner? We not only need to show mercy to others, we also must show ourselves mercy at times.
GO DEEPER: Psalm 25:4-7
We receive Christ by faith...period. End of story. That's the only way to come alive spiritually.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him." - Colossians 2:6
GO DEEPER: Luke 7:18-23
"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." - Philippians 4:8
We have zero control over most things in life...
and the few things we can control, we need His help on.
GO DEEPER: Colossians 3:1-4
Romans 12:1-2 is crucial because it is located between what God has done for us and how we should respond. We honestly must let God's truth reshape our thinking.
"I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer you bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God -- This is your true and proper worship. 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." - Romans 12:1-2
GO DEEPER: Titus 3:1-8
"'The time has come,' He said. 'The Kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!'" - Mark 1:15
Jesus first words of the Book of Mark are instructions to repent and turn things around. He literally tells us to repent, confess our sins, and to change our minds! We must put our trust in Him.
GO DEEPER: Romans 2:1-11
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 40.
What happens when we start looking at things through the eyes of God? What can we see from the prison story of Joseph and those who used to be closest to the king? The harsh reality of those who are of the world, about themselves, and those who are following God and trusting Him no matter what His plan.
Join us for our message today.
Paul told Timothy to "Train yourself to be godly." The word in Greek translated as "train yourself" is the root of the English word Gymnasium. Meaning we must work out in spiritual training as we navigate this difficult world.
"Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly." - 1 Timothy 4:7
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
"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, for it is God who works in you to will and act in order to fulfill His good purpose." - Philippians 2:12-13
Sometimes we are passive spiritually...sometimes, we feel we have to work and it is up to us to earn our salvation. Neither perspective is correct, and that's a difficult place to find ourselves. Today, rely on God's salvation as you work according to His guidance and leadership in your life.
GO DEEPER: 2 John 1:1-6
It is disheartening when we are going through a trial and it seems that God is nowhere to be found...but we must not lose sight of the unseen. We must remember that in our past we have times we felt the same way, but looking back we can see that God was working at all times on a solution to our troubles. The same can be seen in Exodus when thinking about the Israelites under Egyptian captivity.
"The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out, and their cry for help because of their slavery went up to God. Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law...and he...came to Horeb, the mountain of God."- Exodus 2:23; 3:1
GODISNOWHERE - how do you see it? God is nowhere? or, God is now here?
GO DEEPER: Genesis 22:1-19
"Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped." - Isaiah 35:5
Sometimes we resort to thinking we just aren't meant to understand, when God may be waiting on us to ask Him to help us understand. Sometimes, it might just be that the power to understand lies within our surrender to the Holy Spirit.
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 13:9-12
"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." - Philippians 1:6
Thinking back over a day, lying in the dark, contemplating everything you said or did and realizing that you have struggles might make you wonder if you are making any progress in your faith. But do not worry, God is faithful.
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 6:1-12
"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." - Psalm 1:3
Do you see signs of spiritual growth in your life? Or, are you dry, like a tree with no water? Ask God to keep you rooted in Him and grow as He intends you to grow!
GO DEEPER: Galatians 5:16-25
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 39.
Pastor Phillip dives in to how we should deal with our circumstances when others spread "fake news" about us. How can we learn from Joseph when others accuse us of something we didn't do? Is there forgiveness when we make mistakes?
Join us as we continue looking at the life of Joseph and what we can learn from his experiences.
"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." - 1 Peter 2:2
A young, royal child may not act very royal at times, in fact, probably not at all. The truth is that they have to grow up and be trained in the way they should behave and act. We are much the same when it comes to our faith...But we must remember: We will always still have room to grow.
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Hebrews 5:11-14
"That you, a man of God, may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." - 2 Timothy 3:17
What does it mean to be "thoroughly equipped?" What has God equipped you to do? Are there changes in your life that lead you to believe that He might be equipping you for something different than you are doing now?
GO DEEPER: 2 Timothy 2:20-25
Loved by God, Forgiven, Adopted, A citizen of Heaven, God's Workmanship, A friend of Jesus...
What do you think when you hear these descriptions in Scripture? Which do you identify with? Which do you not?
"For we live by faith, not by sight." - 2 Corinthians 5:7
GO DEEPER: John 20:24-29
"To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be His holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ -- their Lord and ours." - 1 Corinthians 1:2
What do you think, or who do you think of, when you hear the term "holy people?" How do you think of yourself in this term?
GO DEEPER: Colossians 1:9-14
"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." - Matthew 5:13
Salt flavors. Salt preserves. Salt used to be worth so much that it was used as wages. Are you "worth your salt" today?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 5:13-16
We are sheep, and that's not a bad thing. In fact, it solely depends on the shepherd we are following. Why does the Bible compare us to sheep? Because sheep were treasured, but needed guidance, and He is the ultimate Shepherd.
"Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture." - Psalm 100:3
GO DEEPER: Psalm 23
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 38.
Pastor Phillip takes a look at the difficult topic of our lives and the lies we tell and mistakes we make. Their impact on our lives moving forward...but also, what can we learn about our relationship with God from the relationship of Tamar and Judah?
Join us for our continuation of our Sermon Series in Genesis.
Spend a minute or two and just glance over the headlines of today. Disease. Disaster. Defiance. Doom and gloom. Certainly it doesn't make you think "What a wonderful world!" Do you feel safe, despite the dangers? Do you trust God has it under control?
"Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come." - 2 Corinthians 1:21-22
GO DEEPER: Psalm 121:3-8
"Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer." - 2 Timothy 2:3-4
Of all the identities that the Scripture gives us...this may be one of the most difficult and unsettling. How can you best equip yourself for a battle "against the powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12)?"
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 6:10-20
We've all heard a rags-to-riches story, maybe one of an orphan who is adopted by a wealthy family. Maybe we have even uttered that we would like to be adopted by a wealthy family...
We have been...the wealthiest...we have been called joint heirs with Christ!
"Now if we are children, then we are heirs -- heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory." - Romans 8:17
GO DEEPER: Matthew 5:12, James 1:12, 1 Peter 5:4, Revelation 4:10-11
"For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves." - Colossians 1:13
Today we paint a powerful picture of the grace of God! Don't miss it. Step into His kingdom today!
GO DEEPER: Romans 7:21-25
"in the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." - Romans 6:11
When we die all of our urges, desires, wants, and addictions die with us. This is why Paul urges us to die to sin, die to this life, and be made alive in Christ. We put off the urges and desires of sin and move forward in a new life, guided by Christ.
GO DEEPER: Romans 7:4-6
"For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." - Romans 6:6
Paul says that as believers in Christ we, the lost and rebellious person we are, have been crucified with Christ. The day He gave His life for us, our life ended, meaning who we were is no longer who we are.
GO DEEPER: Philippians 3:7-14
Sermon based in Genesis 37.
Pastor Phillip looks at the things we must do when we face fallen expectations. How can we learn from the Joseph story and how can we deal with others when they are only out to destroy us and what we stand for? When we are following God we can rest in His grace and guidance.
Man's plans are not God's plans, and sometimes what man thinks is destroying God's plan is only putting the pieces in place.
"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people." - Ephesians 1:18
The whole of creation is God's, yet He considers us His treasure...that is reason to praise His name today!
GO DEEPER: Revelation 4
Where is God when we suffer? What causes us pain and suffering in this world? What do we know about Christ that can help us?
"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28
GO DEEPER: Romans 8:18-30
"In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others." - Romans 12:5
Too many people have had bad experiences in the church...but we were created to be together. This "Holy" solitude that we seek is not what God intended for the Body of believers...we are one body...one Church...
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 4:1-16
In ancient times, temples were the place where God was found; where people went to encounter God...or other gods. But something amazing happened...something shifted in the New Testament...God moved His residence on Earth to the temple of us.
"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." - 1 Corinthians 6:19
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 3:9-17
"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
What do you do well? What do you have great skill in? Remember, saying that there is nothing you aren't creative isn't something you can do! God, the creative Creator, created you in His image...
GO DEEPER: Psalm 139
"In Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority." - Colossians 2:10
The world will try and entice us to look away from Jesus to find fulfillment...but Paul reminds us that He is the only, true source of life we will ever have in this world. We can use the Letter to the Colossians as a guide on the fullness of Christ.
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 3:14-21
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 35-36.
Pastor Phillip dives into the topic of "What if I mess up?". What if we mess up? What happens if we make a mistake? What can we do?
We can't just sweep everything under the rug, we must be accountable for the sins we commit. It may take us burying the past and returning to the place it all started. It may take complete surrender.
"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." - 2 Corinthians 5:20
We are ambassadors...
That means we represent His Kingdom. We must respect those around us, while also making a good representation of what Citizenship in the Kingdom looks like. Today we must remember we are Ambassadors for the King!
GO DEEPER: Luke 14:15-24
"Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." - Philippians 3:20
If you have not been to an American Naturalization Ceremony, you should! See the joy in the faces of all, and know that is the same reaction when someone is naturalized in as a citizen in the Kingdom of Heaven!
Nothing on earth compares...
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 2:19-22
It is often said, "Be in the world, not of the world." Many times though, do we know what that means? This life is temporary...but life with Christ is eternal...
"Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul." - 1 Peter 2:11
Be set apart...do not forget the calling.
GO DEEPER: John 17:6-19 - Jesus prays
"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." - John 15:15
We are called friends...not slaves or servants, but friends. In spite of our flaws, He calls us friend....
Let that sink in...
GO DEEPER: John 15:9-17
"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." - John 15:5
We must stay connected to the source of life...otherwise the power will go out.
If an electrical cord becomes cut or disconnected it is no longer useful to draw power from the source, in the same way we must stay connected to Christ.
GO DEEPER: John 15:1-8 - The Vine and the Branches
"For you were once in darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light." - Ephesians 5:8
It is always intriguing how a follower of Christ seems to have a glow about them, but it happened in the Bible also. We can glow in Christ and others will see and know that we have been with the Lord. Is there anything that is dimming the light you shine?
What can you do to shine brighter today?
GO DEEPER: 1 John 1:5-10 - Walk in the Light of Christ
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 34.
What happens when we face the storms of life? How do we react? How should we?
We can learn quite a bit from the reactions of the players in the story in today's text.
"It is not the children by physical descent who are God's children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham's offspring." - Romans 9:8
When God made a promise to Abraham...He not only kept the promise...He included you!
GO DEEPER: Galatians 4:21-31
"The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'" - Romans 8:15
In Christ, you were selected by God to be His child, forever!
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 1:3-14
"My goal is that they be encouraged in heart and united in love; so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in Whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." - Colossians 2:2-3
Scripture talks about wealth, both material and spiritual, and how we are much more blessed with spiritual riches in Christ...but in Christ, our material needs are met. What are our Spiritual riches? How would you describe them?
GO DEEPER: Psalm 19:7-10
"If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" - 2 Corinthians 5:17
New is a favorite word for us, especially in today's society...we love new...
We are new if we are in Christ!
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 4:17-24
There is no miracle greater or mystery greater than the miracle of birth....
"Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God - children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God." - John 1:12-13
One day all is dark...and suddenly...it isn't!
GO DEEPER: Galatians 3:23-4:7
"My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:19
Make a list:
1- Things your and your loved ones need at this moment. Things you and your loved ones want at this moment. Cover a wide variety of topics and categories....
2- Write down 5 words that best describe how you would feel if it were up to you to take care of all of those.
Aren't you glad it isn't up to you?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 6:25-24 - Why worry?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 33.
Pastor Phillip looks at what we can learn from the reunion between Jacob and Esau, and what happens when we fully submit to God's way and plan, finding our way back "Home".
What is home to you? What should it be?
"God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8
How does God show His love for us? How do we show love to one another? What love language do you use to express your love? What speaks best to you?
GO DEEPER: Deuteronomy 7:6-9
What does it mean to be a disciple?
You hear it in the sports world often, young coaches often called disciples of older veterans, but what does it mean? It means they spend time under their teaching and they learn their ways and mannerisms...
We are to do the same under our Coach, which is Christ!
"When morning came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them. whom He also designated apostles." - Luke 6:13
GO DEEPER: Romans 10:9-15
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." - 1 Peter 4:10
In ancient times people had many servants, the head of which would be the steward. A steward was trusted and given charge of all the master's possessions...what possessions have we been given to day by the Master?
GO DEEPER: Matthew 25:14-30
When the Bible references "slave" or "servant" what does it mean? Why does it make us cringe to hear those titles? Do we realize the context and what it means for us as followers of Christ?
"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!'" - Matthew 25:21
GO DEEPER: John 13:1-17 - Jesus washes the feet of the disciples
"'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.'" - 1 Peter 2:24
The ultimate, eternal, SPIRITUAL healing we need is found in Christ. Healing takes place in many places in Scripture, but the physical healing that we see leads us to the greater healing of the heart that Christ can do in us.
GO DEEPER: Isaiah 53 - Isaiah's description of how we are healed through Christ
"Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." - John 17:3
When you hear the term "eternal life" do you think like many others that it is abstract or impersonal? The reality is that it might just be, according to Scripture, more personal than you know...in fact, it is the person of Christ! He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6) for us today.
GO DEEPER: Psalm 39:1-7
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 32.
Pastor Phillip takes us into the greatest wrestling match of all time. Jacob facing the final steps in his transformation from a deceptive, egotistical man after the world into the Nation "Governed by God (Israel)."
Where do we need to let go of our pride and fully surrender to God's leadership and provision?
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it." - Revelation 2:17
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." - Romans 8:37
What failures happen in your life, but in looking back may change if the perspective were to change from "loser" to "conqueror"? Even in the worst of life's moments we are "more than conquerors".
GO DEEPER: Romans 8:31-39
"So, for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch." - Acts 11:26
Why do we have such a problem with the name Christian? The name means Christ (or Messiah), and -ian (belonging to, a part of), so Christian means "Those who belong to or are a part of Christ." How do you identify?
GO DEEPER: 1 Peter 4:12-19
"'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will send you out to fish for people.'" - Mark 1:17
There is no end to the "following" we do in this life, especially with the invent of Social Media. We follow, and unfollow, for many different reasons, but Jesus wants us to follow Him wholeheartedly...are you willing?
GO DEEPER: Luke 18:18-30
"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." - Colossians 2:13
Do you ever feel, as The Princess Bride says, "Mostly dead." Just beaten down and that dead inside feeling. You may not feel God moving, but He is...trust in Him.
GO DEEPER: Romans 13:11-14
"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." - Romans 15:7
Rejection comes in many ways and many forms...but, Christ accepts us...and we are to accept others despite their differences.
GO DEEPER: Romans 14:1-4
"For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law." - Romans 3:28
What is justification? Why do we so often feel guilty when God has justified us in Christ?
GO DEEPER: Galatians 2:15-21
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 31.
Pastor Phillip takes a deeper look at the interaction between Jacob and Laban after Laban had chased Jacob down and demanded an explanation. Looking at how God will protect us from the ways of the world if we are seeking to do what is right by Him.
We will be blessed when we follow the will of God, and we are not held accountable for what others may have done that we do not know of. God will not go back on His word to us.
"God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: 'The Lord knows those who are His,' and, 'Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.'" - 2 Timothy 2:19
As humans, we want to be known, but we are also terrified of being known...but God knows us, and yet loves us!
GO DEEPER: John 10:14-27
You have been bought at a price. You belong to God.
"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; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies." - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
GO DEEPER: Romans 6:16-23 - Paul's description of what it means to be a slave to righteousness
"If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." - John 8:36
Maybe you have experienced freedom. Temporary freedoms from worldly endeavors, but have you experienced true freedom? True freedom only comes when you recognize that you must surrender all to God.
GO DEEPER: Galatians 5:1, 13-19 - Remember the freedom you've been given and do not allow sin to enslave you again.
"For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect." - 1 Peter 1:18-19
Everything costs something. But when someone gives you a gift card, you are out nothing, but they had to pay a price. It is this way with life also. Our sin leaves us with death as the only price to pay...and Jesus offers redemption through His blood. That gift truly is priceless!
GO DEEPER: Galatians 3, 1 Corinthians 6, Romans 5, Titus 2, 1 Peter 1:14-18, Revelation 5:9-10 - Peter, Paul, and John all describe redemption through Christ.
"The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." - Matthew 20:28
Sure, you've seen movies with a ransom being requested for the victim of a kidnapping...a steep price being paid for the freedom of the one who is being held captive. Do you know that this is what Christ has done for you? He paid a ransom for your freedom!
GO DEEPER: Hebrews 9:11-28 - The blood of Christ paid the ransom for many
"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?" - Romans 5:10
The deception of the world is that people are basically good...but it may have been best told by C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity, "Fallen man is not simply an imperfect creature who needs improvement: he is a rebel who needs to lay down his arms."
"That I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ -- the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith." - Philippians 3:8-9
What is righteousness? Where does it come from? How can we obtain it?
GO DEEPER: Romans 4 - Do we obtain righteousness through works or faith?
"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." - Ephesians 1:7
For some, guilt is a burden to carry around. Others keep looking back. We must embrace that God has offered us forgiveness and grace to overcome the struggles of letting go...but we can let go, because He has overcome those burdens and our guilt.
GO DEEPER: Isaiah 43:18-21, 25-26 - God's Merciful Forgiveness
"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." - Romans 10:9
Saved, in the Bible, means we have been rescued or delivered. Sometimes salvation is physical...but more often than not, it is spiritual. We need salvation, but we cannot find it on our own; it does not come from anything we will do, but what God has already done for us!
GO DEEPER: John 3:1-21 - Jesus shares with Nicodemus what Salvation is.
"You also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ." - Romans 1:6
We do a lot of "calling" in our lives. Calling in favors, calling the family to dinner, etc. We get called for Jury Duty. Sports officials make calls...the list could go on and on...but what is God's call on our lives?
GO DEEPER: 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 - Paul offers encouragement to stand firm in our calling.
"Out of His fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given." - John 1:16
We see examples of grace daily, many in our own lives, shown to us...and yet we miss that Christ gives us grace to replace grace as we learn and grow. We do nothing to earn it, yet He supplies and maintains it..God is good!
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 15:9-11 - Paul's description of the undeserved grace of God.
"The Lord God called to the man, 'Where are you?'" - Genesis 3:9
"Where are you?" - Did God need to ask this? No. Why, then, did He? It was more of an invitation than a question. So, where are you today?
It's worth asking. God pursues you, seeking you like the lost sheep.
GO DEEPER: Luke 19:1-10 - Jesus seeking the outcast
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 28:10-22.
Pastor Phillip dives into the text to take a deeper look at the spiritual battle that Jacob was facing, as well as how that battle is the same for us as we struggle through this life.
Why do we neglect to see that God is with us until it is after the fact? What is it that is so hard for us to sense His presence in our lives today?
Remember getting picked for the team growing up? Maybe that dreamy crush you had asked you to prom or on a date? Maybe you got that fantastic job you had been wanting? You got picked. It felt great to be chosen...
Ephesians 1:4 reminds us, "For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight." He chose us...let that sink in.
GO DEEPER: 1 Peter 2:4-10 - The Living Stone has chosen you
We are all victims of something, honestly, and our lists could go on and on...but what if we started accepting our own responsibilities in this world? What if we reject the "culture of blame" and refused to surrender to the victim mindset?
"Each of us will give account of ourselves to God." - Romans 14:12
One day we will not be able to place the blame on others.
GO DEEPER: Galatians 6:1-10 - Instructions on carrying your own load
Do you ever get the uneasy feeling you are being watched? You are. From security cameras, to companies monitoring your phone calls, internet usage, and more, every move we make is being watched...and there is One who is watching that will always be watching, even if we go off grid.
"The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good." - Proverbs 15:3
GO DEEPER: 2 Chronicles 16:7-9 - The Lord is ever watchful
The opening chapters in the Bible give us a unique opportunity to look back to creation, and to see it as God intended it. We look back to our original intention when God formed man out of the dust. We are workers and caretakers of His creation.
"The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it." - Genesis 2:15
GO DEEPER: Colossians 1:15-20 - Paul looks at Jesus' role in creation.
"Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them." - Deuteronomy 11:16
Worship is giving our time, energy, attention, and affection to whomever or whatever we consider worthy. But where does our worship lie? In whom, or what, do we place our time and energy? What do we worship?
It is worth asking ourseleves.
GO DEEPER: 1 Chronicles 16:23-31 and Psalm 96 - Look at David's time of worship and celebration of God.
"God said,'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.'" - Genesis 1:26
Saying we bear God's image isn't saying He looks like us. It is, however, saying that we have many characteristics implanted into us that resemble Him. This fact alone gives us great dignity and worth...as well as breathtaking potential.
GO DEEPER: Romans 8:28-30 - Paul speaks of God's goal to make us "conformed to the image of Christ."
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 28-29.
Pastor Phillip takes a look at the need for us to overcome our flesh in the story of Jacob as he flees for his life, searches for a wife, and faces the deception of others. What happens when we push farther than maybe we should? What do we face when we put our desires over that of God?
Jacob learns a valuable lesson, and hopefully we do as well.
Thank you for listening and following our Daily Devotional podcast.
Due to a couple of situations during the week that pulled us away from our typical routine, we ask forgiveness for our delay in getting things taken care of properly. At times unforeseen things can happen, but we will begin again with daily uploads on Sunday, August 29, with our sermon podcast, and again on Monday, continuing our study of who we are.
Thank you for understanding.
"God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them." - Genesis 1:27
Why do we exist? Are we just a fluke? Genesis 1 and 2 answer the questions, answering the second with a resounding "NO". God created mankind, and that fact makes us creatures, created by the perfect Creator.
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." - 2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible is more than a random collection of outdated rules written by men. It is inspired by God, written under His guidance, and is more than useful for us.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 27.
Pastor Phillip takes a look at what happens when we try to use our efforts in the flesh to force the will of God. Schemes backfire, struggles happen, but God's ultimate will will win out and be accomplished.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." - Proverbs 1:7
John Calvin said in Institutes of the Christian Religion, "Without knowledge of self, there is no knowledge of God" and "without knowledge of God there is no knowledge of self." Essentially arguing that the fear of God is the basis of everything and without it we are lost. Are you willing to come to know God as you should? And, in turn, come to know yourself?
GO DEEPER: Ephesians 1:15-23
The most intriguing question asked in the Bible might be the one Jesus asks in John 5:6 ...
"When Jesus saw [the lame man] lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, He asked him, 'Do you want to get well?'"
He may be asking you the same question today. So, do you?
GO DEEPER: Isaiah 53:1-6
While praising God, David pauses to remember and marvel at his own existence. Do we take the time to do the same?
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." - Psalm 139:14
GO DEEPER: Romans 12:3-8 - Paul explains our unique gifts and how they work with God's purposes.
"Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today." - Deuteronomy 15:15
Moses reminded the Israelites to remember their identity, to remember they were "slaves" but have been redeemed by God. We would serve well to remember that also.
GO DEEPER: Matthew 4:1-11 - Jesus' example shows us that we must commit the Word of God to memory to overcome the wiles of the devil.
"I heard a loud voice in heaven say: 'Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down." - Revelation 12:10
God has promised that one day "the accuser" will be hurled down. Why do we take the words of the accuser to heart? Why don't we listen to the descriptions God has give us instead?
GO DEEPER: John 15:1, 4, 14-15; Romans 8:17; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 5:17
"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." - Deuteronomy 4:9
Do we forget who we are fighting and who we are? Sometimes it is like we have Spiritual Amnesia, but we can reflect and remember who God is and who He has made us to be.
Sunday Message based in Genesis 25/26. Pastor Phillip looks at the beginning of the Sibling Rivalry between Jacob and Esau, also looking to the troubles we sometimes pass on to our children.
Isaac learns, grows, and is also troubled due to his struggles to see things clearly as God works in the life of His promised heir.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." - Proverbs 3:5
People, places, and things all are misidentified every day. Why are we often so wrong? Our knowledge is limited and our memory fails us...but Thank God we can identify in Him. Why are there times it is easy to trust God? Why are there times where it isn't?
GO DEEPER: 1 Corinthians 1:20-25
"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received." - Ephesians 4:1
The book of Ephesians is a great goldmine of truth, but it is easy to miss the simple, yet significant, message Paul is trying to convey. It is a great reminder to us that who we are will always dictate how we live.
GO DEEPER: Colossians 1:9-14
"Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.'" - Job 1:20-21
We come in with nothing, and we can rest assured, we will leave this world with nothing also. Too often we identify ourselves with stuff...but what will we do when that stuff is no more?
GO DEEPER: 1 Chronicles 29:10-20
"This is what the Lord says: 'Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,' declares the Lord." - Jeremiah 9:23-24
Many times our biggest problem is a case of mistaken identity...by ourselves. We identify as everything but God's...this shouldn't be how we carry ourselves as we go about our lives.
FURTHER STUDY: 2 Corinthians 10:13-18
"A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold." - Proverbs 22:1
The first thing we do when meeting someone new is exchange names. Our name sets us apart from everyone and everything else. What does your name say about you?
Further Study: Isaiah 43:1-7
Why do we run from who we are? We have done it since the Garden of Eden, and it all comes down to our sin.
"The man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden." - Genesis 3:8
Further Study: Psalm 139:1-12
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 24.
Pastor Phillip looks into the provision of God in the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah, but deeper into the prayer that leads to God's faithful provision. An unnamed servant, a praying patriarch, and a young couple who become the focus of God's promise.
"Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." - Psalm 119:18
We wear many hats...but those hats are what we do...not who we are.
GO DEEPER: Romans 6:4-14 - What does it mean to be alive in Christ?
SEASON FIVE PREMIERE - Who Are We (In Christ)
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." - John 10:10
19 people have their identity stolen every minute. The reality, it has been happening since the Beginning. The devil has been trying to steal the identity of God's Children since the fall. But we must remain in God's Word and grasp who we are in Christ.
GO DEEPER: John 8:31-47 - Jesus shows how His truth can truly set us free
SEASON FOUR (HEALING) FINALE
"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." - Acts 20:24
Paul had one goal: preach the word. Preach salvation through Christ.
What are our goals? May each of us finish well.
"[Be] confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Philippians 1:6
Know this: If God began a good work in you...HE will see it through. Do not lose faith. Do not lose hope.
"Time heals all wounds" and "God helps those who help themselves" are often vocalized during difficult times in our lives...yet, they are not biblical, and, honestly, are more harmful than helpful.
God...not time...heals all wounds. Grief is a journey, and we will all travel that road.
"Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." - John 16:22
"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work." - 1 Corinthians 12:4-6
God created each of us different, for different purposes, but we are all created in the same Image...His.
The audio of today's message will be uploaded at a later date due to Pastor Phillip being away from the church this Sunday. Please pray for the travels and pray for God to be blessed in our services today as Bro. Luke Crowe brings the message. We plan to upload the message as soon as we can. Thanks! God bless!
Our culture is obsessed with death. From movies, to music, TV shows and more. We fear death, yet celebrate it around every turn.
"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" - 1 Corinthians 15:55
Did you know that God is ever faithful and true? Do you know He blesses us with life, abundant life? Did you know He offers peace?
"No matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through Him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." - 2 Corinthians 1:20
"If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." - John 8:36
Christ was taken prisoner, for our freedom.
He was accused (unjustly), so we can resist the enemy.
He was crucified, abandoned, and rejected, so we can have eternal life and be called Children of God.
What a Savior!
Every day we say thousands of words and the question is: How many of them are uplifting? How many are loving, patient and kind? How many are joyful, kind, good, gentle, etc.? How many reflect the fruit of the Spirit?
"May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and Redeemer." - Psalm 19:14
"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins." - 1 Peter 4:8
God wants to heal us, and our relationships with others. Sometimes we need to ask forgiveness...but we always need to offer it, whether accepted or not. Pray for healing. Pray for grace.
"If I'm not showing grace...have I forgotten the grace I've been shown?" - John MacArthur
"Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him." - Psalm 62:1
Some days we are flat-out, bone-deep, soul-weary tired. We feel we can't go on. We feel we can't do our part. We feel useless. But God...
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 22:20-24.
Pastor Phillip looks at an obscure, yet revealing text. No matter what something looks like on the surface, if we try, we can see God's hand at work on a deep, deep level.
Do not lose sight of God in the midst of your seemingly "ordinary, mundane" day.
"Moses answered the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.'" - Exodus 14:13-14
Sometimes we see no way out of our circumstances. We find ourselves between a rock and a hard place, and God is simply needing us to stand firm and trust in Him as he divides the way to our freedom.
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God." - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Our suffering, many times, isn't for us...it is so that others can see the Glory of God in us. We struggle at times so that we can know how to aid others along the way. It is the power of God in us that overcomes the struggles, and allows us the opportunity to give guidance to others.
"Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord." - Hebrews 12:14
Pursuing peace in the midst of conflict may be difficult to do, but it is not impossible. We are all different by design, but created in the same image...which means we can get along, but it might take some work.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." - Matthew 5:9
Conflict should not be a chance for us to run away, but to use the opportunity to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ. It is a chance for us to demonstrate His peace in the midst of division and disagreement; and, ultimately, an opportunity for us to reflect the identity we have as children of God.
What can we learn from a dead man?
Mary and Martha were full of grief and sent word to Jesus...yet He waited. Why? He knew what would happen, but He also knew the Glory of God would be greater seen in the healing to come than the one before it's time. It isn't out of God's cruelty we must wait, but out of the abundance of love and the Glory of God!
"The sisters sent word to Jesus, 'Lord, the one you love is sick.'" - John 11:3
Sometimes we have been told we should have enough faith to be healed by God without medicine...but what if medicine is the plan God has desired? There are quite a few accounts where God used "medicine" in the Bible to heal someone, even if it was the mud made from the spit of Christ.
"Isaiah said, 'Prepare a poultice of figs.' They did so and applied it to [Hezekiah's] boil, and he recovered." - 2 Kings 20:7
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 22-23.
Pastor Phillip looks deep into the faith of Abraham, the sacrifice of Isaac, and the picture that it paints for us of Calvary.
"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." - Colossians 3:1-2
Sometimes we need to re-frame our lives. We need to re-focus on the things that we hold dear, and truly look at where we focus our attention and energy. Oswald Chambers may have said it best: "I must learn that the purpose of my life belongs to God, not me."
We are all set free by Christ. Some from debt, some from busyness, some from slavery to fear, and many other things that tend to take us under. What is Jesus calling out toward? What has He called you out of?
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." - Proverbs 3:5
Emotions are God-given, but sometimes we allow them to get out of control. In fact, rather than controlling our emotions, we allow them to control us. Trust the Spirit in you to help you control your emotions today and seek out why they are what they are.
"Do not turn to idols or make metal gods for yourselves. I am the Lord your God." - Leviticus 19:4
Do we desire healing so much that we make it an idol? Idols can be more than physical, sometimes they can be emotional or mental. Don't let anything take the place of God.
Jonathan and David had a special bond. They, in many ways, held one another accountable. We can seek out those who will do the same for us, and it will help us stay focused on the process and give us the strength to see it through.
"Jonathan said to David, 'Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord', saying: 'The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.'" - 1 Samuel 20:42
"There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." - Romans 8:1
Are you living in the shadow of guilt? Overwhelmed by the condemnation you feel? Remember that God convicts and pushes you toward repentance, Satan condemns. It might make all the difference.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 21.
Pastor Phillip looks at the ups and downs we face in life by looking at the experience of Abraham, Sarah, Hagar and Ishmael. We will have ups and downs, life is full of them, but for the believer it will always end on an up!
"A time to weep, a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance." - Ecclesiastes 3:4
"Our Father in heave, hallowed be your name..." - Matthew 6:9
Do you have trouble picturing God as a loving father because of your earthly father? There is hope...look to the attributes of God.
"God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." - Colossians 1:27
We have a hope for healing, fulfilled dreams, heaven, and more...but we can never grasp how Christ lives in us.
"After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray. Later that night, He was there alone." - Matthew 14:23
Do you actively seek a quiet time with God? Maybe you should!
Jesus is our Deliverer. He is like Moses was for Israel with the Egyptians...if only we would look on Him!
"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." - Psalm 18:2
"Show me, Lord, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is." - Psalm 39:4
Busyness...
It consumes us. Many of us have a stuffed schedule...and it can break us down.
Do you feel cast away from God at time? Do you allow your fears to overwhelm you and your faith to falter? Trust in Him and come knowing that He will not let you down...not even a little.
"For the sake of His great name the Lord will not reject His people." - 1 Samuel 12:22
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 20.
Pastor Phillip takes a look at the regression of Abraham, back into the same sinful life that he came out of, repeating the same mistake and seeing the same result.
How does it apply to us today? How can we learn from Abraham and his battle with chronic and carnal fear?
"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." - Galatians 1:10
If we can't say no we will run ourselves into the ground...because without discernment we may feel we are doing good. But who are we trying to please? Man or God?
"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; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
God created us and in many ways our health matters. How we treat this temple we have been given is important, and He gave us signs to tell if what we are doing is good for it.
"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." - Philippians 3:12
We may need help in emotionally overcoming abuse from our past, but our true and full healing will not come on this side of heaven.
"By perseverance the snail made it to the ark." - C. H. Spurgeon
"A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." - Proverbs 14:30
Do you have FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)? It is a feeling of anxiety over missing something...but the reality is, why are we comparing our worst with others bests?
"Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful." - Colossians 4:2
How often have you asked God for something in prayer and forgotten to say "Thank you"? Take the time to be thankful today!
"Moses built an altar and called it Jehovah Nissi (The Lord is my Banner)." - Exodus 17:15
Our God should be our banner. He should be held up and go before us as we navigate this battle. As long as Moses raised a hand in battle to the Lord the victory was on their side...are you raising your hands today? Are you like Aaron and Hur and offering encouragement and support in battle?
Sermon Based in Genesis 19.
Finishing up where we started last week, Pastor Phillip continues a deep dive into the life of Lot and how we all tend to relate to his lifestyle. Things we can learn and things we can do to assure we do not follow the same path of "Righteous Lot" (2 Peter 2)
"I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 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." - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
Paul tried time and time again to have God answer a prayer. He had a "thorn" he wanted removed. He begged and pleaded...and yet, God did not answer in the way Paul requested, instead God reminded Paul of the power and strength found in Him. Do you have a "thorn"?
In Luke's version of the Gospel he describes a woman who had spent 12 years with an infirmity of blood. 12 years! But she knew Jesus could heal her...she just had to be close to Him.
"He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace." - Luke 8:48
Towers in Biblical times were used for protection and defense. Christ is our strong tower that we can run to in times of trouble.
"Inside the city, however, was a strong tower, to which all the men and women - all the people of the city - had fled. They had locked themselves in and climbed up on the tower roof." - Judges 9:51
Paul reminds the Ephesian Church to be alert and pray every chance they get; and the same can apply to our walk with Christ. We must remember the importance of prayer in the life of the follower of Christ.
"Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep praying for all the Lord's people." - Ephesians 6:18
When we rest in the righteousness of Christ we find peace. True peace overwhelms us in His presence, and it is that peace that draws others to know Him.
"Stand firm then...with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." - Ephesians 6:14-15
"He put on righteousness as His breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on His head; He put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped Himself in zeal as in a cloak." - Isaiah 59:17
Righteousness is a distinctive characteristic of God and it is why we must take up the breastplate of righteousness in our lives as we clothe ourselves with the full armor of God.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 19. Pastor Phillip looks into the type of Father that Lot is and how our desire to sit on the fence and move closer to the action of the world is disruptive to our lives as followers of Christ.
We must face the reality that the closer we move to the world, the closer the world moves to us. We cannot serve two masters...or else we will hate one and love the other.
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers." - Psalm 1:1
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist." - Ephesians 6:14
We let our worries cause us to struggle through the Spiritual battles we are going through. Satan is searching for the chink in your armor, but we can stand...not alone, but Thank God we don't have to stand alone. Thank God that He will stand with us in the midst of the storms.
"The Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12
The Armor of God was for defensive purposes, but we do have a weapon that also allows for offense when necessary. The Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of the Lord.
"Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." - Ephesians 6:16
The shield of the Roman soldier was as big as a door. It could protect the whole body from the attacks of the enemy. Is your faith big enough to protect the whole in the midst of battle?
"Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God." - Ephesians 6:17
We are called to put on the Armor of God. The helmet is the part that protects the head from attack and from falling debris. Our minds are protected from the attacks of the enemy when we adorn the helmet of salvation. Praise God!
"Let the redeemed o the Lord tell their story - those He redeemed from the hand of the foe." - Psalm 107:2
We have been redeemed and our worth is far greater than anything we could ever imagine.
"God has given no pledge which He will not redeem, and encouraged no hope which He will not fulfill." - C. H. Spurgeon
"Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up." - Psalm 71:20
We are all a restoration project and God is the One who restores us. He created us and knows us and will restore us from the broken vessel we have become.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 18. Pastor Phillip looks at Abraham - Friend of God. What can we learn and apply in our life from the life and friendship of Abraham with God. How amazing it would be to be called a friend of God...
Abraham was...and we can be too! What a friend we truly have in Jesus.
Question: Do you feel that your prayers do not get through to God? If so, please listen.
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." - 1 John 5:14
"[Hagar] gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me [El Roi]," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me." - Genesis 16:33
God intervened in the life of Hagar...twice. He sees you. He comforts you. He is with you.
One way we get (and keep) wisdom is to walk with those who have it. We must make friends with those who are like minded in that regard...after-all, our relationships in many ways dictate our behaviors.
"Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." - Proverbs 13:20
"Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out!" - Romans 11:33
God told Solomon He would grant him anything he desired.
Solomon asked not for riches, power, or honor...he asked for wisdom; and, because He was pleased, God added those others in for good measure.
Be like Solomon.
It is rare to find someone who shows a quiet heart in today's world. We are so used to the hustle and bustle of the day that we rarely stop and quiet our hearts in the presence of God. We have to take a moment to stop, and surround ourselves with others who do the same.
"I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content." - Psalm 131:2
"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul." - Psalm 23:1-2
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He is the only way to eternal life. He protects us and prevents the evil one from destroying us. He has your back.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 17. Pastor Phillip digs into the testimony of Abraham and the reality that God will ALWAYS accomplish HIS plan. No matter what we may do to try and help Him along, He will always do what He has promised us. He made a covenant...and He will not break it.
"In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ." - Colossians 2:11
"As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things." - Ecclesiastes 11:5
Change happens in our lives, and as it would seem most of us have the same problem: We don't like it. We want security. The best security we can find is in Christ Jesus Himself.
"When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." - John 8:12
In the beginning God commanded, "Let there be light." Light happened. God is light and He is the light of our lives today. Are you seeking to shine the light of Christ to those around you?
For us to succeed in life we must keep our eyes on Jesus. Through the ups and downs we can find the strength to endure in the hope of Christ.
"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 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." - Hebrews 12:1-2
"Jesus wept." - John 11:35
Tears can be holy. Tears are sometimes needed. Why are we so afraid to show our emotions? Why do we feel we need to apologize when we do?
"They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers." - Acts 1:14
Prayer is important in healing. Praying for and with others is also important in our healing. Are you seeking brothers and sisters in Christ to pray and fellowship with?
If you've been hurt, it is easy to build walls. Walls prevent more hurt. But, walls also keep people out. Some people are safe, so to speak, and those can be helpful in our times of hurt, as long as we use discernment in letting them in.
"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." - Psalm 20:7
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 16. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the unavoidable questions we sometimes face in our lives, especially when the world views us as different. Do you feel unloved? Unwanted? Unattached? Unasked?
So did Hagar.
Forgiveness is important to our walk. If we hold a grudge, we are the ones that suffer the consequences. Grudges produce bitterness within us that will bleed over into every other aspect of our lives.
"If you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." - Matthew 6:15
"I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint." - Jeremiah 31:25
Some days we struggle. Some days we feel like we can't carry on. Some days we feel like giving up and giving in. Some days we just need to cry out in prayer, "God, have mercy."
Do you consider suffering a privilege? If not, you should. The Bible teaches us that we should consider it joy (James 1).
"We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope." - Romans 5:3-4
"All these people were still living by faith when they died." - Hebrews 11:13
It is okay for us to have heroes...but we should not worship those who earn hero status, save Christ. Jesus is the only role model we should have that deserves our full worship, but we can learn from the examples of others.
Healthy boundaries are essential to our walk with Christ. We must learn to set needed and appropriate boundaries in order to find the rest and healing we desire, or we might end up out of balance.
"Yet the news about [Jesus] spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." - Luke 5:15-16
Many of us, as adults, have lost the ability to play. Play is important. It is not immaturity, it is embracing the childlike faith we are to have.
"They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness." - Psalm 145:7
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 15. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the anxiety of Abram and how it can be a guide for us in our anxious situations as well.
God has Plan A in the bag. The issue is that we must "wait on the Lord" and we do not like the delay. The promise is rewarding, and far outweighs any worldly reward we can find, so the wait is for the best; we just have to stop making plans B, C, and D along the way.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding." - Proverbs 3:5
We have a tool for training that is the greatest tool in anyone's toolbox: The Bible. We need to find time daily to read, study, and talk with our Creator about what we have read...otherwise, we are not training for His Kingdom.
"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." - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Heaven is our goal...and when we lose focus on heaven we begin to focus on the negative things in life. Heavenly focus gives us something to look forward to, it brings us peace and comfort in knowing that this life is not our end.
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." - Romans 8:18
This world provides us many opportunities to turn things upside-down and cause fear within us. We fear, because we do not trust.
"Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him." - Isaiah 64:4
"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it." - Isaiah 30:15
We can follow the example of the Children of Israel if we are looking for what NOT to do when we are going through the wilderness. God has promised us provision, but provision comes with the promised land. Do NOT give up in the wilderness before you ever reach the land of promise.
"The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing." - Zephaniah 3:17
We allow ourselves to become frustrated with God, thinking that He is angry or upset with us; the reality is that we are His most prized creation and He loves us beyond measure.
God gave a command for us to keep the Sabbath and to keep it holy. He doesn't do this to cause us grief, He does it because rest is important for us to be fully usable for His kingdom.
Exodus 20:11 says, "In six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but He rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy." - Exodus 20:11
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 14-15. Pastor Phillip dives deeper into the sold out life that Abram has now begun. We begin to see the Spiritual Maturity of Abram and we can take some lessons from his continued faith.
Also, A short discussion of Melchizedek.
"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." - Colossians 3:17
Whatever we do...no matter what it is...should be done for the glory of God! All of it. No Exceptions.
When anxiety threatens to cripple us, we have hope! Jesus tells us not to worry! So, why do we?
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." - Philippians 4:6
Jesus is alive! And, because He is alive, we can find healing in Him, even today!
"Jesus turned and saw her. 'Take heart, daughter," He said, 'your faith has healed you.' And the woman was healed at that moment." - Matthew 9:22
God's Word can bring healing, even to the most weary and hardened heart. God's word doesn't just bring life and healing, they ARE life and healing.
"My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body." - Proverbs 4:20-22
"Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness." - 1 Chronicles 16:29
Circumstances can break us. We can get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and forget the bigger picture. This leaves us broken down and burdened over worldly matters, but Worship can free us from this feeling.
In the Gospel accounts, we often see Jesus healing those who ask. He often asks them, "What do you want me to do for you?" Why?
"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 13:13-14
Sunday Message based in Genesis 13:5-18. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the slow start many of us get in faith, compared to the slow start of Abram and how we must be continuously moving forward, despite the things the world is telling us we need to do. Sometimes, what we need is to separate from the world.
Many of us are addicted to control. Don't believe me? Take a moment to reflect and recognize how and why you are frustrated; many times, you may find, it is due to your desire to control something that cannot be controlled.
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - This is your true and proper worship." - Romans 12:1
"Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." - Psalm 27:14
How do you react when you feel that God is not answering your prayers? Or, maybe when you feel He has delayed the answer you seek? Sure, none of us like to wait, we are impatient, but He is perfect in His timing.
"Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent." - Psalm 4:4
God's children need silence to hear Him, to cultivate a relationship with Him, and ultimately to hear the instructions being given for healing. We are so accustomed to adding noise to our lives that we do not give ourselves the chance to heal.
According to the account in Luke 17, ten lepers met Jesus on the road to Jerusalem, ten lepers found healing from the Savior, yet only one leper returned to thank Christ for His healing. We must be diligent to be thankful in the healing that God blesses us with.
"One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice." - Luke 17:15
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." - Isaiah 40:29
Healing is a process and doesn't happen overnight. You may take two steps forward, but we must be sure not to give in or give up when we find ourselves taking a step back.
Satan knows our weaknesses and exploits them to try and bring us down. He tries to hold our past over our heads, but praise God we are forgiven!
"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." - Romans 15:4
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 12-13. Pastor Phillip looks into the early call of Abram (later, Abraham) and how it can inspire us as we strive to live for God. We have to realize that sometimes we make mistakes, but God doesn't leave us there. And, at times, even in the center of God's will we will find this world a troublesome place.
"I will never leave you, nor forsake you." - God (Deuteronomy 31:6)
"Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard." - Isaiah 58:8
It's easy to focus on our selves when we are going through tough days, but it is in our service to others that we serve God and many times fine healing.
"Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him." - Job 13:15
The hopeless, difficult moments in our lives can be the breakthrough we have been looking for. The secret? Look for God in the difficult days as much as the good ones!
God is a sustaining God and He will sustain you! No matter the circumstance.
"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." - Isaiah 46:4
"Now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 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." - 1 Peter 1:6-7
Why does God allow suffering? For His glory!
When we go through difficulties or feel destroyed, we naturally want to feel whole. Truth is we long for heaven, rather than hell on earth. Why? Because we were made for His eternal Kingdom!
"Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people?" - Jeremiah 8:22
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." - Romans 12:18
People say hurtful things, especially when we are going through suffering, and this causes us to pull away and slink back away from the crowd. Or, could it be our isolation is because we cherish the wounds or are looking to nurse our grudges?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 11:24-32. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the wild, yet chosen, family of Abram (Abraham) and Sarai (Sarah) as we continue our study of who we are created to be.
"God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called."
Laughter truly is the best medicine. Are you taking the time to find true joy and laughter in the moments of life?
"Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." - Psalm 126:2
Have you ever taken the time to watch calves frolic in a field? It truly is an amazing sight to see, and we can learn a great deal from the behavior of the young.
"For you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves." - Malachi 4:2
"He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces He was despised, and we held Him in low esteem." - Isaiah 53:3
Are you battling depression and despair? You might be surprised to find out those who have experienced the same feelings in examples from God's word.
There are many names for God in the Bible. One that encompasses His healing power is Jehovah-Rapha, The Lord who Heals. Are you turning to Him to heal you today?
"If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you." - Exodus 15:26
"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." - Proverbs 16:24
One of the most untrue statements we hear in life is, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." Truth is, words can destroy us, but they also have the power to heal.
What do you put your hope in? Are you hoping in material, worldly things? Or, are you putting your hope in the God of Creation and His Word?
"Hope is the music of the whole Bible, the heartbeat, the pulse and the atmosphere of the whole Bible." - A.W. Tozer
"Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him." - Psalm 62:5
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 10-11. Pastor Phillip dives into what it means to be a Nimrod. Nimrod was great among man, but was at odds with God.
How can we avoid being a Nimrod?
(Part 2 of 2)
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, and a light on my path." - Psalm 119:105
If we seek information we turn to Google, and just by typing in a few keywords, we find a plethora of information at our fingertips. What if I told you that we can find more reliable and practical answers than any search engine can provide just by opening God's word?
"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." - John 14:27
The last documented words spoken to the full group of disciples before Jesus went to the cross, and words that we can find hope in today. It is not only available in spurts or certain circumstances. It is given to us that we may have peace in all circumstances.
Finding peace is as simple as seeking God. We need healing, but we cannot lose our sense of peace in the process. The absence of peace may be an indication of where we are seeking the answers, are we going to the true source?
"The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
The world seems to get darker by the day and we hear of evil running wild so much that we have become what Psychologists call, 'compassion fatigued.' Thank God He doesn't do the same.
"Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:22-23
"Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security." - Jeremiah 33:6
During His earthly ministry, Jesus taught others how to love God and to love others. He set the example and everywhere He went He healed. If you need healing today, cry out to Jesus! Whether it be physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual, Jesus has the cure to what is ailing you.
"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." - Isaiah 53:5
We live in an imperfect, broken, sinful world. No one makes it through unscathed, but there is a source for healing that we can seek and that source is the Savior, Christ Jesus. Seek Him today.
SEASON FOUR PREMIERE (Healing)
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 10-11. Pastor Phillip dives into what it means to be a Nimrod. Nimrod was great among man, but was at odds with God.
How can we avoid being a Nimrod?
Jesus gave us a "Great Commission" to share the Gospel message with the world. He told us, "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20)
FINALE SEASON THREE (PRAYER)
"Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." - Matthew 6:34
We all find our courage tested, life brings disappointments and tragedy. We live in a crazy world and trouble is never too far from the front door.
Life is a series of decisions, but are your decisions the right ones?
"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33
"Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body." - Ephesians 4:25
We must never bend the truth. Dishonesty can be habit forming, but so is telling the truth. Trust God and be honest!
Bitterness is sickness. If we are holding on to bitterness we are spiritually sick and in need of healing from the only source that healing can come, Christ!
"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." - Romans 12:19
"The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all." - Psalm 34:19
Life is all about problem solving, but are you tapping into the right source?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 8 and 9. Pastor Phillip looks into the illustrations we see in God's word, focusing on the illustration we are provided in the story of Noah and what it shows us about our own redemption. Looking at the symbolism of the Ark and the Resurrection Story in our lives as Christians and how we can apply that today.
"This is a symbol for the present time..." - Hebrews 9:9
Happy Resurrection Day! Join us!
Easter Sunrise Service from April 4, 2021. Pastor Phillip looks at many texts as to what may have happened between the death and resurrection of Christ. We are told we are "buried" with Him in baptism, so what exactly happened during that burial.
We dive in to the conversations of Christ, his death, burial, and resurrection on this Easter Sunday as the day breaks anew! Join us!
"For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring you to God." - 1 Peter 3:18
"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God." - Colossians 3:1
We lose perspective daily, but temporary loss of perspective leaves us worried, exhausted, or both. We have to readjust our thought patterns!
We are slow to forget the disappointments of yesterday, and it keeps us from seeing the blessings of tomorrow.
"The Lord says, 'Forget the former things: do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.'" - Isaiah 43:18-19
"Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord." - Proverbs 16:20
We aren't perfect. We worry. Even when we have no reason to worry, we worry. Do you trust God today?
"Walk with the wise and become wise." - Proverbs 13:20
Wisdom doesn't happen overnight, it is something that we attain over time. But, to become wise, we must seek God's wisdom and live according to His word. Are you seeking wisdom today?
It is quite important for us to heed God's call in our lives. We didn't choose Him, He chose us! (John 15:16)
"One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:13-14
"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14, 16
Are you a role model? Yes. Would you follow your example?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 9. Pastor Phillip dives into part two of a two part message about how our righteousness doesn't always equal perfection. What can we continue to learn from Noah and his failure to overcome the worldly ways?
What kind of impact does it have on those around us?
What qualifications do we need to follow God?
"We know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them." - 1 John 4:16
We are made a promise in God's Word...God is love. Are you open to the love of God?
The world offers contentment that is incomplete, happiness that is unfulfilling, and it seems that is happening everywhere you turn. God offers fulfillment that is everlasting and all encompassing.
"For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let people ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance." - Psalm 66:10-12
The good news of Jesus Christ is worth telling the world about! Are you sharing it as you go?
"As you go, proclaim this message: 'The Kingdom of Heaven has come near.'" - Matthew 10:7
Romans 1:16 says, "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." We, too, must not be ashamed of the Gospel.
God's Word is unlike any other book in history. Embrace it. Enjoy it. Employee it.
Everywhere we turn it seems the world promises us things that it cannot deliver on. Happiness and contentment that come from the world are, at best, incomplete. Where are you searching today for your happiness and contentment?
"The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace." - Psalm 29:11
"You have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth." - Psalm 71:5
Sometimes even the most confident of Christians can stumble and become discouraged. How do we face disappointment?How do we learn to live courageously?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 9. Pastor Phillip dives into part one of a two part message about how our righteousness doesn't always equal perfection. What can we continue to learn from Noah and his failure to overcome the worldly ways?
What kind of impact does it have on us?
NEXT WEEK: Part Two of Righteous Failure and how it impacts those around us.
"The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." - James 3:17
We make hundreds of choices daily...are you choosing wisely?
"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." - Philippians 4:11
Are you bitter over something that just didn't go your way? Maybe a tragedy has struck and you are struggling to not blame God or someone else for the troubles you are now facing. Listen closely...
People will treat you rudely. Face it: People treat people badly. This, however, doesn't mean that we should return the favor.
"Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared." - Proverbs 22:24-25
"Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life." - Proverbs 22:4
Even if you have heard it over and over, or possibly have even said it about yourself, no one is a self-made man or woman. You are not responsible for the success in your life. In fact, you likely owe a debt of gratitude to any number of people, and most importantly, to God.
God made you and gave you talents and abilities that are unique to you, don't you think it is high time to give those back to Him in how you live?
"So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it." - 2 Corinthians 5:9
"As you travel through life brother, whatever be your goal; Keep your eye upon the donut, and not upon the hole." - seen on the wall of a donut shop.
Sometimes we can find wisdom in the oddest of places. Proverbs 8:10-11 tell us, "Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more than precious rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her." Sometimes what we learn in life is greater than what we own.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 7-8. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the situation of Noah and how it can help us when we are feeling a little "shut in" in our lives. We struggle, but sometimes, that "shut in" feeling is right where God wants us in the moment.
Join us as we dive deep into God's word and discover who we were created to be, and why we may find little rests along the way that we just can't explain. We just might find that being "shut in" isn't the worst place we could be!
"Submit yourselves to God...resist the devil!" - James 4:7
"He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears." - Isaiah 50:4-5
Every day is a new day, a gift from God. Are you taking time to be quiet with Him? Warren Wiersbe reminds us, "Surrender your mind to the Lord at the beginning of each day."
Life is full of inevitable setbacks and disappointments...the price we pay in our risk we take...but also the price we pay for not taking the risks God wants us to take.
We are reminded that there is "a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance." - Ecclesiastes 3:4
Paul offered a clear message to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid." We are to share Christ with others...boldly, unashamedly, and courageously.
"For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel - not with wisdom and eloquence, lets the cross of Christ be emptied of its power." - 1 Corinthians 1:17
Are you weary? Are you anxious? Are you weak or worried? Spiritually Exhausted? Turn it over to God!
"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. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:28-31
"My cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." - Psalm 23:5-6
Do we trust our hearts and our days to the One who created them? Do we sincerely seek the riches and the blessings that God offers?
Sometimes we allow ourselves to become preoccupied with life and forget to be thankful for the blessings of God.
"Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that openly profess His name." - Hebrews 13:15
Are you willing to offer praise through it all?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 6. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the lessons that we can learn from who Noah was and the stand that he took in a world that was less than accepting of the ways of God. No matter what he faced, Noah stood for what he knew to be truth.
"Noah was a righteous man, blameless among his contemporaries; Noah walked with God." - Genesis 6:9b
Are you standing for truth today? Are you willing to stand alone if necessary?
"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." - John 14:27
Peace...Happiness...things the world promises, but will never deliver on. Today, claim the peace that is yours in Christ Jesus!
Our society is in love with money and material things...but God is not. God cares for people, not possessions.
"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." - 1 Timothy 6:10
"We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commands." - 1 John 2:3
"Never support an experience which does not have God as its source, and faith in God as its result." - Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest
Our world will always unfold according to God's plans, not our wishes...so why rest in the hope of our wishes? We shouldn't!
"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring." - Proverbs 27:1
"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." - John 13:15
As citizens of the fact-paced, every-changing world we face challenges daily. Many of which leave us feeling overworked, overwhelmed, and over-committed. This is not God's plan.
God has given us grace and because of that grace we have every reason to celebrate. Rest in Him today.
"Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret - it only leads to evil." - Psalm 37:8
"When in doubt, walk it out."
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 4-5. Pastor Phillip dives into the genealogies of the opening chapters in Genesis and takes a look at the lessons we can learn from those prior to the flood of Noah's day. What does it mean to walk with God? Are you listening? Are you ready?
"Enoch walked with God; then he was not there because God took him." - Genesis 5:24
"[Jesus] 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." - Matthew 8:26
Storms happen in life. Many times without warning...but what are we afraid of? We know the Master of the Seas.
The world will seek to lead you astray. God, however, will not. God will lead you to Himself.
"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." - Proverbs 16:9
"All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast." - Proverbs 15:15
Christ promises us lives of joy...but he will not force it on you. Claim it today!
"I will make them and the places surrounding my hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season, there will be showers of blessing." - Ezekiel 34:26
Count your blessings. Go ahead, we'll wait... Can't do it can you? You may be able to name a few, but each of us have more than we can count!
All of us possess special gifts, gifts given by God, but that doesn't guarantee success!
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." - 1 Peter 4:10
"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." - Romans 12:2
We live in a world that will try to influence us. The world will demand our worship, our time, our money, and more. Are you willing to put God first?
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 3. Pastor Phillip steps into the Garden of Eden to take a deeper look at the warnings for all of us in how the enemy uses temptation to break us at our weakest point. The enemy seeks to tap into our already unfounded weakness, using lies and deceit to further bring us down the road of temptation.
"No, you will certainly not die," the serpent said to the woman. "In fact, God knows that when you eat it your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." - Genesis 3:4-5
"When they kept questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, 'Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.'" - John 8:7
We all fall prey to the subtle temptation to judge others based on our opinions, not thinking about our own wrongs in the process. Jesus warned against that in John 8, reminding us that those with sin may want to refrain from judging too hard.
Few things are sadder to see than someone who has completely given up and lost all hope. Jesus is our hope!
"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." - John 16:33
"Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" - 1 Corinthians 15:33
It may be old, but still rings true: First you make your habits...then, your habits make you.
Are you on fire for Christ? You should be! Peter reminds us, "With minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at His coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do." (1 Peter 1:13-15)
"Catch on fire with enthusiasm and people will come for miles to watch you burn." - John Wesley
"In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." - Matthew 7:12
Are you living by the Golden Rule? It is, after all, the instruction Jesus gave us.
Our behavior is a major factor in how we honor God. How are you honoring Him today?
"We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commands." - 1 John 2:3
Sermon based in Genesis 2. Pastor Phillip dives into the text to explore the beautiful revelation of God as our provider.
What should our lives be like?
We are created in God's image, which has become distorted by sin, but is now restored through Christ. The death of Jesus brings redemption.
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:16
Unless we are willing to dig in and be what we claim to be in Christ, we are doing an injustice to those around us, to ourselves, and most importantly, to God.
"Everything that does not come from faith is sin." - Romans 14:23
"Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him." - Proverbs 30:5
Follow the map of God's Word as you navigate the road of this life. "The only way we can understand the Bible is by personal contact with the Living Word." (Oswald Chambers)
God's time schedule is not at all like ours...and it can be difficult to wait on Him. Especially when we are in a hurry and want things to happen now.
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." - 1 Peter 5:6
Life is full of frustration, good or bad, big or small, we will all find frustration and confront evil. So did Jesus. So what can we do?
"A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel." - Proverbs 15:18
"I preached that they should repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds." - Acts 26:20
Who has sinned? Go ahead, I'll wait. We all have!
Thanks be to God for His great forgiveness...absolute and complete.
Martin Luther said, "Many things I have tried to grasp and have lost. That which I have placed in God's hands I still have." So what are our real riches?
"Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised." - Job 1:21
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 1:26-31. Pastor Phillip looks back at the creation of man. God created man in His image. His likeness. But was this a physical image? or is there something more to this story that we fail to see?
Remember the old children's song, "He's Still Working on Me"? He is still working on us...but is it to make us who we want to be? Or who He wants us to be?
"Let this same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus..." - Philippians 2:5
As Christians we are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves...so, why is this so hard? We make ourselves too busy, and we walk by, but we are called to be like the Good Samaritan.
"Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please Himself." - Romans 15:2-3
Forgiveness, no matter how difficult it may be, is God's way and must be ours as well. Paul reminded the Ephesian church, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:29)"
Make forgiveness your way today!
"Because I live, you also will live." - John 14:19
God is not distant from us. In fact, He is understanding and closer than we could ever imagine. He understands our daily struggles and what it means to be human better than we ever could.
He understands our emotions, our hopes and fears, all of it. Because, He loves us!
Seeking God's purpose for our lives is something that will often lead us through our share of disappointments and detours. But failure doesn't have to destroy us!
"Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 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." - 1 Corinthians 15:57-58
Life is a team sport and we all need the occasional pat on the back from our teammates. Why aren't we spreading that love to others?
"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." - Ephesians 4:29
"I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man." - Acts 24:16
Your conscience is like an alarm system that is designed to keep you our of trouble. If you ignore it, you can be headed for heartbreak or headaches, or both.
Sunday Sermon for January 31, 2021. Pastor Phillip dives back into the first chapter of Genesis with a deeper look at the Creator who made all of this we see today. Don't get stuck looking at the window, look through it to behold the beauty of His creation.
"God saw all that he had made, and it was very good indeed." - Genesis 1:31a
Moderation and Wisdom go together...what I mean is, if we are wise we will temper our appetites, desires, and impulses.
"Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city." - Proverbs 16:32
Our world needs Christian leaders who will step up and honor God with their words and their deeds...but not necessarily in that order.
"The noble make noble plans, and by noble deeds they stand." - Isaiah 32:8
"Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one's life for one's friends." - John 15;13
Who is the best friend the world has ever seen? Jesus, and it's not even close.
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." - Ephesians 4:31-32
There are no rewards for the angry focus many have in this world. Holding back forgiveness is a sin, and it isn't for the one being forgiven anyway...it is for you!
Life is fast-paced in a world gone mad. Do you find waiting on God difficult?
"We urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone." - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
We make mistakes, daily. We go through difficult days at times, and sometimes struggle with the mistakes we make. Our task: Make them only once.
"I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. 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. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God." - Psalm 40:1-3
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 1:26-31. Pastor Phillip continues our tough look into our beginnings. How can we fulfill our purpose when we have lost that "perfect" place. Our call doesn't change because of our consequences. God will accomplish His will in us.
"So God created man in His own image; He created him in the image of God; He created them male and female." - Genesis 1:27
If God is everywhere...why does He seem so far away? That has little to do with God and more to do with us.
"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast." - Psalm 139:7-10
Jesus loves me...this I know. We all know the song. We all know the one, reassuring line: "Little ones to Him belong. They are weak but He is strong."
Yes, Jesus does love us.
"Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity." - Joel 2:13
"There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." - Romans 8:1
We have all sinned...we all fall short...we all stumble. Sometimes it our rebellion. Sometimes it is us getting swept up in events beyond our control...but all leave us with a sense of guilt.
Life is hectic, demanding, complicated...just downright overwhelming. Take a moment to pause and thank God today for His blessings.
"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine." - Proverbs 3:9-10
The journey toward spiritual maturity lasts our entire lives...no exceptions.
"When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me." - 1 Corinthians 13:11
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:6-7
Do the demands of life overwhelm and burden you? Rely on the God and not on yourself. He will lift you up.
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 3:1-13. Pastor Phillip talks about the importance of us breaking the blame game if we want to move forward in our lives. We naturally want to cast the blame to others, but our freedom from the sin that enslaves us begins with us accepting responsibility and leaving it behind through repentance.
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need." - Hebrews 4:15-16
Is life full of difficulties and unwelcome circumstances and changes? Remember, God is far bigger than anything we may face.
"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." - Isaiah 9:6
"The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." - Proverbs 21:5
Life robs us of peace that is ours in Christ. Why? Because we are too busy for our own good!
God has given us a guidebook, a road map if you will, to guide us for righteous living...The Holy Bible.
"You will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching you have followed." - 1 Timothy 4:6
"Blessed are those whose...hope is in the Lord their God." - Psalm 146:5
Our happiness depends less on our circumstances than our thoughts...and our thoughts, if not on God, can leave us in a negative place.
"For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith." - 1 John 5:4
When we face the struggles of life, God is ready, willing, and able to protect us. Let's face it, we will all face adversity!
Christ came to this earth so that our lives could be lived to the fullest...those aren't my words, look at the text in John 10:10: "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Those are the words of Jesus. We cannot live life to the full without the One who came so that we could!
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 1:1-5, 14-19 and John 1:1-11. Pastor Phillip asks the question, "Do you have a Word?"
We must be listening for the Word of God, which is the Light of the World...and the strangest thing about creation, that light was created before the beacons of light we see today...What a God we serve!
"In Him was life, and that life was the light of men." John 1:4
It takes courage to dream big. It takes courage to accept the past, trust God to handle the future, and to make the most of the time we have been given today.
"No 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." - Ephesians 3:20
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." - Colossians 3:23
If we are genuinely excited about our faith it can be contagious to those we come in contact with.
Are you afraid to ask God to do big things in your life? Are you afraid to dream big?
"Is anything too hard for God?" - Genesis 18:14
Nothing is impossible with God...we must understand that and have faith in His promises.
"May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed." - Psalm 20:4
If we trust God and have faith in His promises, our positive thinking and optimism will give us direction and motivation, but that is not the only reason for the hope that we have!
We are accountable for our actions. One day, maybe sooner than later, we will stand before the Father and be called to account for every action we have undertaken on earth. Everything will be on the table and nothing will surprise God, even though we may find ourselves quite surprised.
"Encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into His kingdom and glory." - 1 Thessalonians 2:12
Joy is a gift from God and our celebration can begin because He has put joy within us!
"I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." - John 15:11
Sunday Sermon based in Genesis 1:1. Pastor Phillip begins a new series on "Beginnings".
"In the Beginning, God..." - Genesis 1:1a
Starting anew...fresh..clean. Seems to be the theme as a new year begins, but what place does God hold in your life? This is key...and crucial...if we are to experience peace in the chaos.
Our faith is founded upon promises that are contained in a unique, but complete, guide for life: The Holy Bible.
"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." - Hebrews 10:23
"The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him." - Psalm 37:23
The great truth about God is that he is interested in each one of us. He will guide us if we serve Him obediently.
We are commanded to love. Commanded! It is not a suggestion or an encouragement, but a command.
"These three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." - 1 Corinthians 13:13
If you seek to be a source of encouragement to others, you must be careful of the words you say.
"The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction." - Proverbs 16:23
"For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith." - 1 John 5:4
Do you desire the abundance and success that God has promised? Seek Him in faith!
Storms happen and we find ourselves afraid, but we can have courage for the journey. We can hold to the reminder of Jesus to his followers in Matthew 14:27, "Jesus immediately said to them: 'Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
"The fear of God is the death of every other fear." - C.H. Spurgeon
Sunday Sermon based in Matthew 2:13-15. Pastor Phillip looks into the obedience of Joseph and the Wise Men in the Christmas story. Obedience that we do not have during our day and time.
Praying that you had a Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year!
Each morning offers a fresh start; a new opportunity for us to invite Christ to join us for the day ahead.
"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." - Romans 6:4
Merry Christmas!! May God richly bless each of you!
"Then He said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'" - Luke 9:23
We must daily take up our cross and follow...this isn't an option, it is a command from our Lord.
Special Audio from Christmas Eve service 2020. Pastor Phillip dives into the Christmas story and the true meaning of Christmas as we celebrate the season.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given." - Isaiah 9:6
"It is good to praise the Lord and make music to Your name, O Most High, proclaiming Your love in the morning and Your faithfulness at night." - Psalm 92:1-2
If you find that you're too busy...it might be a sign you need to slow down and take time for the Father!
Prayer is a powerful communication tool between us and our Creator. It is a chance for us to commune with the giver of all good things!
"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." - James 5:16
The love of Jesus changes everything. It is perfect and steadfast, and regardless of our failures He loves us still!
"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." - Colossians 3:3
If we are seeking to live according to the will of God we will discover the plans he has for us!
"For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose." - Philippians 2:13
Part 3 of our Christmas 2020 Series: The Outsiders
Pastor Phillip dives in to the stories of the Shepherds and Wise Men and the fact that God uses the outsiders to announce the coming kingdom and what that means for us.
"Those who were in darkness have seen a great light." - Isaiah 9:2
How will you direct your thoughts today? Here is a good way to start:
"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." - Philippians 4:8
"The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice and be glad." - Psalm 118:24
This is the day the Lord has given. He has filled it with possibilities. He has filled it with His purpose.
"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." - James 1:5
Prayer changes things. If we have questions with no answer, needs that can't be met alone, or if we just desire to know God's plans, we need to pray and ask for His direction.
SEASON THREE: PRAYER
Is prayer an integral part of your daily routine? Or, is prayer just an as needed basis for you?
It needs to be integral, it needs to be without ceasing.
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." - Matthew 21:22
Our outer struggles often times are the result of our inner conflict...but we can truly find peace.
"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." - John 16:33
"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." - Micah 6:8
"And He walks with me...He talks with me..."
Are we walking with Him?
Sunday Sermon for December 13, 2020. Pastor Phillip dives into Luke 1 and Matthew 1 to discover the Kingdom of God breaking in to this world. If we have a Kingdom minded Christmas we will be mindful of the little blessings God is giving daily.
"Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness..." - Matthew 6:33
"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; you were bought at a price." - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Are you concerned about your health? Not just physical, but emotional and spiritual health as well? The Bible has the remedy...God is the Remedy.
Life presents us with decisions daily...countless questions, struggles, doubts, and problems. These daily riddles are never too difficult if we learn to look in the right place for the answers.
"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." - James 1:5
"Do not neglect your gift." - 1 Timothy 4:14
God gives each of us talents, abilities, and gifts, all with the opportunity to give them back in worship.
Today is a gift from God! Treat it as such!
"The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad." - Psalm 118:24
"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 heave, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Matthew 6:19-21
Too often we focus on worldly riches...today, seek the real riches of heaven.
Is Jesus the Cornerstone of your life?
He should be...
"The dearest friend on earth is but a mere shadow compared with Jesus." - Oswald Chambers
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." - John 12:46
Sunday Sermon by Pastor Phillip beginning the Journey to the Manger for 2020 and taking a look at the time between the Old and New Testaments. The Kingdom of God has been breaking into this world for more than 2000 years; the Christmas Story is a part of YOUR Story!
"Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught." - Luke 1:3-4
What things? God things!
"If God is for us, who can be against us?" - Romans 8:31
Share your burdens with God and do not worry about the things you face in the world!
"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." - Romans 12:11-12
Are you over-committed?
Temptations are everywhere, and if you stop to think about it, the cold, hard evidence is right in front of you!
"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." - 1 Corinthians 10:13
"Where your treasure is, there your heart is also." - Luke 12:34
Are you trying to keep up with the Joneses? This one is for you!
"Dear children, Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in His presence: If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and He knows everything. Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God." - 1 John 3:18-21
If you're your own worst critic, keep listening...
Negative thinking is difficult to overcome, but can be done. But remember it is easy to criticize, but not always easy to find solutions.
"A hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again." - Proverbs 19:19
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 100.
Pastor Phillip takes a look in depth at what Thanksgiving is for us as Christians. It is not something that seems natural to us...but can happen as an overflow of the love of God in us.
"Enter His gates with thanksgiving, enter His courts with praise..." - Psalm 100:4
"The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." - Matthew 23:11-12
We live in a world that glorifies power. This world glorifies prestige, it brings glory to fame and money. Jesus teaches that humility is a true sign of leadership, not fame.
Tough times bring us valuable lessons. The question is: what is God trying to teach us or allow us to learn? If we are experiencing setbacks, we should look for the lesson we can learn; complaining about the situation and ignoring the lesson will only keep us where we are.
"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." - Proverbs 28:13
"I lift up my eyes to the mountains - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." - Psalm 121:1-2
The Bible makes us a promise...and we can rest assured it is truth: Whatever "it" is, God can handle "it"!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Turbulent and tumultuous times threaten to overwhelm us, but we do not need to rely on our own resources. Julian of Norwich said, "God can do all that we need."
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and mountains quake with their surging." - Psalm 46:1-3
Life is a team sport, and we, as Christians, are on the same team and need occasional pats on the back from our teammates.
"Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given." - Proverbs 25:11
"A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel." - Proverbs 15:18
Life is frustrating...some great, some small. We will confront evils, but how will we respond?
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 33. Pastor Phillip explores what we can do as children of God when it seems the trials of life are too much. Who can we trust to help us through?
One day all the things that produced pain in us will bring us joy in Christ! We cannot see it now, but we accept it by faith. Our trust is in God, who controls all. Our trust is in God, because He controls all.
"We wait for the Lord; He is our help and shield. For our hearts rejoice in Him because we trust in His holy name. May Your faithful love rest on us, Lord, for we put our hope in You." - Psalm 33:20-22, CSB
Sometimes the future seems bright...sometimes not so much. But God is good and even when we can't see what is around the corner, we can rest in knowing that God is already there.
"It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes." - Psalm 118:8-9
"Count your blessings, name them one by one..." and continue counting them as you go throughout your days.
"Blessings crown the head of the righteous." - Proverbs 10:6
Life demands patience...and lots of it! This world isn't perfect...and neither are the inhabitants...and that is troublesome, but God is worth waiting on. How can we deal with the imperfections?
"We urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone." - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
Everywhere we turn, at least it seems this way, the world promises us happiness...but never fulfills.
"The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace." - Psalm 29:11
All of us have sinned...All of us have fallen short of God's glory, but we have hope in God's love!
"There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." - Romans 8:1
"Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below! Praise Him above ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!" - Doxology
"Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." - Psalm 106:1
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 12. Pastor Phillip dives into the discussion of the wickedness and deception of the world around us, looking back to realize that there really is nothing new under the sun. David faced many of the same concerns as the Church today.
But remain faithful, the remnant will remain!
Our lives are a series of choices. From the moment we awake in the morning to the laying down of the evening we make countless decisions...some good and some not so good.
"Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things [that you need] will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33
Sometimes people behave badly....sometimes very badly. It is hard many times to return kindness when someone is unkind to you.
"Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared." - Proverbs 22:24-25
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9
When our plans do not work out...we do not have to worry...our plans may not work out so that God can work out something new and better for us.
One of the best antidotes to stress is a cheerful heart! Joy comes from the Lord!
"All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast." - Proverbs 15:15
"I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes." - Romans 1:16
God's word is not like any other book on the face of the earth. The Bible is a roadmap for life both here and eternally.
Sometimes finding the right words at the right time is difficult...but God can help us with that.
"The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction." - Proverbs 16:23
Dear Christian,
"Present yourselves as living sacrifices...holy, pleasing, acceptable; this is your reasonable act of worship."
Paul, the Apostle
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 15. Pastor Phillip takes a deep dive into what it means to present ourselves worthy before God. Who is worthy to spend eternity with God in His house?
Sometimes it isn't us that is going through a difficult stressful day...sometimes, it is our neighbors. Sometimes, we need to help our neighbors with encouragement.
"Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please Himself." - Romans 15:2-3
Stress comes many times from us believing one thing and doing something completely different. Our actions should always be led by God as we strive to follow Christ.
"Do not merely listen to the word...Do what it says." - James 1:22
We live in a world that will eat you alive. It is a fast-paced, stress-inducing, anxiety-filled world that pulls the rug right out from under us. So, how do we overcome it?
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." - Philippians 4:6
"Whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven." - Matthew 18:4
Keep
It
Simple
It is flat out stressful to keep up appearances...but, it is also quite fruitless. Trying to put on a face to show others what we "aren't" going through, but God knows the heart...and He wants to help.
"The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." - 1 Samuel 16:7
Setbacks. Failures. Disappointments.
All are inevitable, and in many ways, they are the price we have to pay for our risks we take in life. But we can moved beyond our failures.
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised." - Hebrews 10:36
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 126. Pastor Phillip takes a look at the Joy that is ours through the Restoration of God in His children. A restoration that is realized in the greatest victory every won. The victory of the Cross!
"The LORD had done great things for us; we were joyful." - Psalm 126:3
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." - Proverbs 1:7
"The remarkable thing about fearing God is that when you fear God, you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God, you fear everything else." - Oswald Chambers
"Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." - 1 Peter 2:1-2
We are frail. We are imperfect. We are envious...but we shouldn't be. God warns us what envy can do. We must fill our hearts with God's love, His promises, and His Son, leaving no room for envy, hatred, bitterness, or regret.
What do you expect from today? tomorrow? any day that you face?
"As for God, His way is perfect: The Lord's word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him." - Psalm 18:30
The world offers a hope that is fleeting, imperfect, and will not bring us fulfillment. God offers us lasting hope, unshakable peace, and unending joy.
"In His great mercy [God] has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you." - 1 Peter 1:3-4
"Jesus said to His disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it." - Matthew 16:24-25
Discipleship is to be done daily, not just when we feel like it...but daily! We must live by what we know about God and not what we feel about ourselves or others.
"I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:20
Are you a confident believer in Christ? Or, do you live under doubt and uncertainty in your daily life?
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 131 as we continue our study in the Psalms. Pastor Phillip takes a look at what it means for us to be humble.
What does it mean to be humble? to humble yourself? Do we have trouble with being humble? All questions that we must answer if we want to see God work through us for the glory of HIs kingdom. At some point in our Christian walk we must grow past the milk of the Gospel and into the solid food of our relationship. The new will wear off, but are we prepared to take that next step?
If we allow God to take the reigns, He will lead us in ways we could never imagine!
"The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him." - Psalm 37:23
John 10:10 is a familiar verse to many, even if you don't remember where it is, you have heard it before. "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Today, Christ wants to push you toward a life of abundance, but don't confuse it with prosperity...they are different, as we discuss.
The world promises us success and fulfillment at every turn, but only one source can supply our deepest need for both!
"For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver.... We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance." - Psalm 66:10-12
If you want to rise above the stress and trouble of the times you will need strong faith and great enthusiasm. Excitement overflows from a cheerful heart and a life fully focused on Christ.
"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." - 2 Timothy 2:15
We are practically facing war daily, and sometimes we simply just want to be done with it. We have grown weary of the battle. There is hope at the cross of Christ. The Psalmist reminds us, "Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. (40:5)"
This world can be a scary and discouraging place...but we do not have to give in to the ways of the world. We are commanded in God's Word to be without fear: "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." - Isaiah 40:10
"Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling...Calling, O Sinner, Come Home!"
Sunday Sermon for October 18, 2020 based in Psalm 125 as we celebrate Homecoming! Pastor Phillip dives into the Psalm and talks about that security that we have as God's children and the availability of that Homecoming for those who need to return to the Lord.
Do you want to be a happy Christian? I mean...really be happy in Christ?
Set your mind on Christ! Set it on His love and grace!
"Blessed are those...whose hope is in the Lord their God." - Psalm 146:5
"The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." - Proverbs 21:5
Are you too busy? What is robbing you of the joy and peace in your life?
Do you have trouble saying no? Face the facts: If you can't say no (when appropriate) you are bringing undue and unneeded stress into your life.
"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." - Hebrews 12:1
There are no rewards for those who remain focused on the past. Most of the time when we continue to focus on the past, it is because of anger and an unwillingness to forgive. We must forgive. We are commanded to forgive.
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you." - Ephesians 4:31-32
Are you an optimist? or a pessimist? How do you view life and how it comes at you? As a Christian we should be optimistic about everything we face, even in the face of adversity.
"My cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." - Psalm 23:5-6
Sometimes we have to accept life as it comes and stop trying to force our will on the days we face.
"Submit to God and be at peace with Him; in this way prosperity will come to you." - Job 22:21
Sunday Sermon for October 11, 2020. Pastor Phillip dives into the song in Psalm 124 and the topic of deliverance. God is with us...God is for us...God is on our side! Help is on the way, in fact, "If it hadn't been for God being by our side" we would be struggling more than we are today!
How beautiful life is when God is by our side!
Are you someone who makes a mess of finances? Don't worry, we all do! Rest in God today!
"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.'" - Hebrews 13:5
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:6-7
Life is hard. We have understandable fears and worries about the future. At times, we even worry about the details...today, let it go, trust God and do not worry about tomorrow. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow will come, but today is today and deserves our focus.
Loss leaves us sad and longing for peace. Depression is real and, at times, costly. Trust in God and in those that He may send to comfort you.
"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God." - Psalm 42:11
Is your life out of balance? Face the facts today, life is a balancing act, and sometimes we get completely out of focus.
"The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper." - Proverbs 19:8
"I serve a risen Savior..."
We can have hope for the days because we serve a risen Savior. We can have hope because our future is in the hands of a powerful and capable God. Rest in that hope and knowledge today!
"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring." - Proverbs 27:1
Seeking a deeper relationship with God does not remove the problems of life...in fact, it may bring more; but, it doesn't mean that we shouldn't seek to grow closer to Him.
"I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart." - Psalm 40:8
Sunday Sermon for October 4, 2020 as Pastor Phillip continues the Series in the Psalms, continuing to look at the Psalms of Ascent. Looking at Psalm 123 and what it says to us for today, as well as for our lives, as we navigate the troublesome times of this world we live in and the promise of the Glory of God for our future.
Are you exhausted? It may be God's way of telling you to slow down. Jesus said to us, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)"
Sometimes in life we lose perspective. It happens. Life gets out of balance and the pressures of life get us down. How can we overcome?
"We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." - 2 Corinthians 10:5
How well do you control your emotions? Who is in charge of them? You? Others? Your circumstances or situations?
"Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you." - Proverbs 4:6
Do you have your priorities straight? Do they line up with the will of God?
"Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh." - Romans 13:13-14
"He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears." - Isaiah 50:4-5
Each new day is a gift...are you taking time to spend a few quiet moments with Him during those gifts He has given?
The times are troublesome and turbulent, but we can beat stress...One day at a time!
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." - Matthew 6:34
Sunday Sermon based in Psalm 122. Pastor Phillip explores the question, "Why do we Worship?"
"I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the Lord."" - Psalm 122:1
We are in the world...
but are we of the world?
"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." -- Romans 12:2
Tough times will come...it's practically a given. Maybe you're asking, "God, what do you want me to do next?"
Psalm 16:11 says, "You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand."
Even the most motivated and excited Christian can find themselves at burn-out or exhaustion...
Running on Empty...
"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you." - Ezekiel 36:26
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." - Colossians 3:23
Difficult days and tough times are hard to overcome...It will take a lot of work. What does God's word say to us about overcoming those days?
"No word from God will ever fail." - Luke 1:37
What are we afraid to ask of God? Are you afraid to ask Him to do BIG things in your life? Keep listening...
We all go through difficult days and times and, because of this, it is easy for us to want to simply avoid them altogether. Maybe we are struggling with putting things off...procrastinating. Ecclesiastes 5:4 reminds us, "When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow."
Sunday Sermon for September 20, 2020 as we continue our look into the Psalms. Pastor Phillip explores the protection of God in the lives of His children through Psalm 121 and the promise that our help comes from the almighty God, creator of the universe.
Our help doesn't lie within the things of this world, but in the power of our God!
Each day offers us opportunities...either we can serve God or we can stray and deny God...but the opportunities are endless.
"You were taught...to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." - Ephesians 4;22-24
What does Philippians 4:13 really mean? What does it mean when it says, "I can do all this..." or "I can do all these things..."?
"I can do all this through Him who gives me strength." - Philippians 4:13
Have you been hurt? Broken? Embarrassed? Let Down?
We must forgive...it is not optional.
"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." - Colossians 3:13
Worship is a lifestyle...not just something we do one day a week. We are reminded in John 4;24, "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."
Life is full of BIG challenges.
Many challenges seem too big for us to handle...but God offers protection!
"Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light." - Micah 7:8
Life is a series of events...some are wonderful and some are not. But the process for us as believers is that we must live courageously in the midst of the struggle. The Psalmist reminds us, "They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear. (112:7-8)"
Sunday Sermon for September 13, 2020 as we continue our journey through the Psalms. Pastor Phillip dives into the difficulties of a life lived in faith when it seems that the world around us continues to find blessing in their wickedness.
But just you wait! God will bring them to their just reward and He will provide victory to His children.
When we feel our courage being tested to the limit...three simple words: DON'T GIVE UP!
"Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again." - Proverbs 24:16
The Bible is our most powerful tool and weapon against the troubles in this world! With it we can find pure peace!
"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." - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Too often we allow life's worries to burden us down. We become overwhelmed...but it all starts with where we set our minds!
"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." = Philippians 4:8
When we go through tough times, we tend to lose self-confidence. We focus on what others say...but what does our God say?
"You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor." - Psalm 8:5
Troubled times?
Difficult days?
IF you are caught up in the difficulties of life, there is a promise for you in the advice of Proverbs; Proverbs 1:5 reminds and encourages us, "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidances."
Will you take that advice today?
We are never alone in this world, even when we may feel at our most abandoned, we never have been.
"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." - Deuteronomy 31:8
Sunday Sermon for September 6, 2020 continuing our study in the Book of Psalms. Pastor Phillip takes a look into Psalm 9 and examines what it looks like to delight in the Lord and His ways.
If we have the love of God in us it will overflow! We can't help but share the glory of His fame!
God is trying to get a message to you! Are you listening?
"Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray: Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise!" - James 5:13
We are not perfect! We should never claim to be. We have no control at times over our emotions...but God can. Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us, "One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
The Bible teaches us to trust God and His timing...in ALL things. The psalmist reminds us in Psalm 40:1, "I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry."
How often do you seek peace by going to God in prayer? How often do you seek His wisdom? Jesus says, "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Luke 11:9)"
If you want to defeat the troubles of this world, you might need an attitude adjustment! Paul reminds Timothy, "The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)"
How big are your problems? How big is your God? Genesis 18:14 asks, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" The question for each of us today is, "Are you willing to admit that God can handle your problems?"
Sunday Sermon for August 30, 2020 continuing our study in the Psalter. Pastor Phillip goes back to the beginning to answer the question of "Why the Psalms?" Too many times we are like the Church of Ephesus in Revelation 2, we have forgotten our first love! So how do we rekindle and not lose that love in our lives?
We should strive daily to achieve spiritual maturity, but it may never be achieved in this lifetime. Thank God for His leading and teaching in our lives. Proverbs 9:6 says, "Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of insight."
Life can be overwhelming. Daily demands can wear us down. We need to realize that God is sufficient for everything.
"The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer." - Psalm 18:2
"Nothing speaks louder or more powerfully than a life of integrity." - Charles Swindoll
Integrity is built over time. We are told in Proverbs 10:9, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out."
We live in a demanding world. We can either move mountains, climb mountains, or give up. 1 John 5:4 reminds us that, "Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith."
The news today leaves us numb and pretty well unsettled. We are constantly reminded that things change. Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken."
Why does God allow us to endure times of pain and uncertainty? What does Jeremiah 29:11 mean when it says, "'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 a hope and a future.'"?
Sunday Sermon for August 23, 2020 as we continue our in-depth look into Psalm 139. Pastor Phillip looks into David's revelation that God loves His children deeply. The Psalmist shows us the way that God is madly, deeply, and completely in love with His greatest creation. He knows everything about us and still loves us...He knows all we have done, are doing, and will ever do, and still loves us completely. The best part of our relationship with God is that there is nothing we can do that He doesn't already know, and He can never love us less than He does.
We all encounter disappointments and let downs in this life, but God protects His children. In Isaiah 43:2-3 we are reminded, "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. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, you Savior."
The times are tough and turbulent. Difficult days are unavoidable. Jesus reminds us in 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."
God's grace is not, and cannot be, earned. That we should be thankful for! John 3:16, we all know it and it is a great reminder, "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."
Quiet times each day with the Lord are important, are you making time for Him? Isaiah 50:4-5 says, "He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears."
What is your attitude today? It is definitely worth thinking about. Proverbs 15:15 states, "All of the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast."
We, as Christians, are truly blessed. But do we allow the stresses of everyday living to bring us down? 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
Sunday Sermon for August 16, 2020 based again in Psalm 139. This Psalm has so much for us to glean and many great lessons of life for us to hear. How important is life? And, when exactly does it start? The Psalmist dives into that, as does many other of the Scriptures. Join us as we dive into this today.
Courage and Character work hand in hand. Courage builds character and character builds courage. 1 Chronicles 28:20 tells us to "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you."
If we want to achieve anything in life, we must work hard for it. It is how we are designed. In Romans 12:11, Paul reminds us, "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."
Our society glamorizes addictions. If we want to reach our potential with God, we must overcome those addictions in our lives. Peter reminds us in his first letter, "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith. (5:8-9)"
Certain times in life make it easy to acknowledge God's presence in our lives...but sometimes we forget to give credit where credit is due. James 4:8 reminds us to "Come near to God and He will come near to you."
Do you like to be in control? Is it hard to see things happen that do not go as you had planned? Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."
Who among us has sinned? The answer is all of us. God reminds us in His word, in Proverbs 28:13, "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy."
Sunday Sermon for August 9, 2020 based again in Psalm 139. This Psalm can teach us so much about our lives and ultimately how much our life matters to God, as well as how others should matter to us. This is an exposition that I heard from another pastor and adapted to help us see what is going on in our time, as well as moving forward.
"Speak softly and carry a big stick." - Theodore Roosevelt
Sometimes God is loud and clear, and sometimes he speaks in a still, small voice. Are you quiet enough to hear him? John 8:47 explains, "Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God."
Some fear is healthy...but what? The fear of God. Proverbs 15:16 reflects, "Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil."
Where do you find hope amidst the struggles of this world? Sometimes we have to place more trust in God and remember that His love endures. Hebrews 6:19 reminds us, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure."
Sin leads us down a slippery slope. How do we avoid this? We avoid sin! John 8:34 tells us, "Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.'"
God laid it out in the Ten Commandments that rest is important. How are you doing at finding a Sabbath in your life? Exodus 20:8 tells us, "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy."
Today is full of opportunity. God is always at work. Do you have the strength to endure? Psalm 51:10-12 asks, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast and right spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me."
Sunday Sermon for August 2, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 139. What are we looking for? How are we seeking God? David contemplates the beauty and complexity of life and asks of God, "Search Me! O God, and see if there is any wicked way in me...Lead me in the way everlasting!" Are you willing to make that kind of commitment to God?
Love is a choice. Either you love someone or you don't...you choose. John 15:12-13 says, "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friend."
The Bible promises us that God will guide us if we let Him. He wants to teach us! Our job is to listen and learn. Psalm 25:12 says, "Who, then, are those who fear the Lord? He will instruct them in the ways they should choose."
Silence is golden. Silence is one of the best things we can find to grow our relationship with God. Psalm 37:7 says, "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him."
Do we know what it means to take up our cross and follow Christ? Do we know what God requires of us? Micah 6:8 tells us, "He has shown you, O man, 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."
Life is an adventure in problem-solving...but how will you choose to address them? Psalm 34:19 reminds us, "The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all."
The past is something we cannot change, no matter how hard we may try. Have you made peace with your past? Isaiah 43:18-19 reminds us, "Forget the former things: do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."
Sunday Sermon for July 26, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 38. What are the residual effects of sin in our lives? What must we do to find redemption through Christ? We all have a struggle with sin and it takes the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome that in our lives. Join us for today's message as we explore the effects of sin on our lives.
Anger leads to impulsive nature and that impulse leads to poor decisions. We cannot let our anger get the best of us. James 1:19-20 reminds us, "My dear brothers and sisters, take not of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."
God is sufficient to meet our needs. Period. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, "He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'"
Sin can destroy us. The distractions and the temptations of this world cause us to suffer. Remember the world will not give you an inch. John 3:20-21 reminds us, "Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 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."
Occasionally we have setbacks in life. Those setbacks are simply the price we pay for taking risks and following our dreams...and we suffer when those are not rooted in God. 1 Chronicles 12:18 offers encouragement, saying, "Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you."
God doesn't intend for us to stand still, He wants us to keep moving and growing in Him. 2 Peter 3:18 reminds us, "Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen."
Why is it that it is much easier for us to criticize others than correct ourselves? James reminds us in 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 judgement on it."
Sunday Sermon for July 19, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalms 58 and 109. Are you tired? Fed up with everyone and everything? Looking for a way to get that frustration out? David appears to have used God as his listening ear to vent. Join us as we study these Psalms and how we should respond in a world where people cause us pain.
There are many things that can be evidence of a righteous life, but to follow in the footsteps of Christ, we must live according to His commandments. Psalm 86:11 says, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may rely on Your faithfulness."
It takes courage to stand up for our beliefs, but it takes character to live according to those same beliefs. For us to be successful, we must match our actions to the beliefs we hold. James 1:22 instructs us, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what is says."
For us to be successful, we must find ourselves in the right places with the right friends. Whom are we trying to please daily? God, or others? We are reminded in Proverbs 13:20 to "walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."
If you want to properly build your character, you must first get to know God. We can do this through worship, praise, Bible Study, prayer, and more. In Ephesians 1:17, Paul reminds us, "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better."
Life can be busy and complicated, but we can keep a proper perspective to help keep our focus on Christ. First Corinthians tells us in Chapter 4, verse 6, "Now, brothers and sisters, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, 'Do not go beyond that what is written.' Then you will not be puffed up in being a follower of one of us over against the other."
"Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." How many times have you heard this quote? But the reality is, it is the sincerest form of flattery, as well as the best way for us as Christians to live...by imitating Christ. Daniel 12:3 says, "Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars, for ever and ever."
Sunday Sermon for July 12, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 51. Have you ever had a guilty conscience? How did you try to overcome? Ignore it? Push it to the back burner? Find a way to forget? David had to overcome great guilt, and gave us a song of prayer and petition to God as he tried to overcome a sin that was unsettling for him. Psalm 51 is a great word for all of us trying to overcome guilt today.
Paul reminded Timothy to be assertive and bold, and we can take the same lesson from Paul's teaching. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, "The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline."
Sometimes in the daily demands of life we can lose perspective. Wisdom is the key to upholding our character. James 3:13 states, "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."
God has given us a gift that is more precious than gold...that gift? Eternal life, through Jesus Christ. We must trust in God and follow Christ, it is where we find God's unfailing love. We are reminded in Psalm 32:10, "Unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in Him."
We have heard that someone is "Self-Made" but that is simply not true. Humility strengthens our Character, and we are reminded in Colossians 3:12, "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."
One day we will meet our Creator, and when we do, we will be called into account for all our actions on earth. Did you know that rebellion invites disaster? Remember the words of Deuteronomy 13:4 - "It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey Him, serve Him, and hold fast to Him."
Are we too friendly with the world? We are to be in the world, but we are not to be of the world. 1 Corinthians 3:18-19 reminds us, "Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become "fools" so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight. As it is written: 'He catches the wise in their own craftiness.'"
Sunday Sermon for July 5, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 110. The Gospel is the entirety of God's graceful gift to man. David details a conversation between God and Christ in the Psalms that tells us the whole Gospel in a few verses, detailing for us who Christ is as our True High Priest.
Jesus walks with us...are we willing to walk with Him? Mark 1:17-18 states to us, "'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people.' At once they left their nets and followed Him."
We are told that we should live by faith. How? Peter explains to us in 2 Peter 1:5-7, "Make every effort to add to your faith, goodness, and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance: and to perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love."
Is money a tool for you? Or, is money your master? Truly the world can tell a lot about us in how we handle our money. 1 Timothy 6:10 says, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."
We may be confident we are in God's will...but there may be days where we feel so far away. We all likely know the verse today, but think about it...Jeremiah 29:11 states, "'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 a hope and a future."
We are all part of a treasure hunt - question is, "How are you handling it?" Society is engaged in a massive worldwide hunt for the greatest treasure, but we will never find it in earthly sources. John 15:19 reminds us, "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."
If we want to see things get better in our relationship with God, first we have to take more time to praise Him! Psalm 9:1-2 says, "I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High."
Sunday Sermon for June 28, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 46. We get through the difficult days, we learn to pray and apply the Psalms in our lives, and we can celebrate God as a refuge and fortress. Is God your Refuge today? Are you seeking shelter in the Almighty?
"Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" - Joshua 24:15
We've all heard this, but what type of impact does it make? We should draw close to God, he will take care of us.
Is your life full of distractions? Face it, we all have those days. It says in Hebrews 12:1-2, "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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
We have the ability to think, but that also leads to our ability to worry. Do you have worries? John 14:1 says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled, You believe in God; believe in me also."
Too often we find ourselves quick to proclaim ourselves victims. There is no truth to that accusation. We are given direction from Romans 13:13-14 to guide us. The Bible says, "Let us behave decently...Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh."
Are you strong enough to encourage others? Remember what the writer of Hebrews says in Hebrews 10:24-25, "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 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."
Society tries to force us to follow their values. We struggle to find peace in today's world, but there is hope. 1 Thessalonians 2:12 says, "Live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his Kingdom and glory."
Sunday Sermon for June 21, 2020 - Father's Day - by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 42. Life is hard, things get tough, and many days we feel downcast and broken. This sometimes comes from a place we don't understand. Have you ever had one of those days where you had no idea why you are sad or down? Listen to this message out of God's word as the psalmist discusses this feeling of despair.
We all have special talents that are given to us by God, are we using them? Paul reminds Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:6, "I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you."
If you need something from God, just ask! Do not be afraid to take your needs before the Father. James 4:2 reminds us, "You do not have because you do not ask God."
Materialism can destroy us. Matthew 6:19-21 states, "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 heave, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Do you want to experience real change in your life? Have you invited Christ to have full control? 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
What do you expect from the day ahead of you? Is there a willingness to trust God completely? Hebrews 10:23 reminds us, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."
Are you giving your best? At work? Have you ever heard the statement, "Give the boss an honest day's work for an honest day's pay."? Maybe we need to re-examine ourselves at times. Philippians 3:13-14 says, "One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
Sunday Sermon for June 14, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based out of Psalm 27. Is God the one leading your path? Is he the one that you trust to guide you and draw you to his presence? Today yield to God as the Light and as your Salvation and Stronghold.
We, as humans, are great at passing the buck...never accepting any type of blame. Galatians 6:4-5 says, "Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else. for each on should carry their own load."
Are you struggling with things in life? Are you afraid to seek wise counsel? If you would like to become wise, surround yourself with those who are wise. Proverbs 19:20 says, "Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end, you will be among the wise."
Spiritual Warfare is real. The Enemy is the Devil. How prepared are you? James 4:7-8 states, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
The world will leave us discouraged and broken down...especially when we fall short of someone's expectations, especially our own. 2 Chronicles 15:7 reminds us, "As for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work, will be rewarded."
What is one good way to help build our character? Being Generous. Matthew 10:8 reminds us, "Freely you have received; freely give."
We are called to walk with God as Christians, so what's so hard about doing the right thing? 1 Timothy 2:2 says, "Live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."
Sunday Sermon from June 7, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based out of Psalm 25. What do we do and how do we cry out when we are in need of redemption? When our soul finds struggle in the world around us, we can cry out to God and know that He will deliver us from the evils around us.
We are called to behave differently than the world...Galatians 6:9 says, "Let us become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Are you looking for the Media/TV to build you up and make you feel good about yourself? Don't! Colossians 3:2 reminds us, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Talk is easy...it is cheap. Living out our righteousness takes work however. Matthew 7:21 states, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven."
Are you willing to serve? We must be willing to follow the example of Jesus. The Gospel of John reminds us in 13:13-15, " You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should was one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you."
Are you in control of the direction of your thoughts? Proverbs 3:21-22 tells us, "Do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you."
God calls each of us to act in accordance to His will, are you? Ecclesiastes 5:4 reminds us, "When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools, fulfill your vow." Remember: Delayed Obedience is Disobedience.
Sunday Sermon from May 31, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based out of Psalm 119. What can we make of the world around us and how can we stay pure in it? What does God's image of purity look like for us? The Psalmist shows us a way to seek after God's purity in our lives while trusting His word and finding joy in the process.
Are you enthusiastic? Passionate? Did you used to be but things have begun to weight you down? How can you rekindle that? Colossians 3:23 reminds us that, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working, for the Lord, not for human masters."
Do you have real friends? How can you tell? Real friends will honor God, but also encourage you to do the same. In fact, real friendship might result in our willingness to give the ultimate sacrifice for them...John 15:13 says, "Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Perseverance helps you become who you are supposed to be in Christ. When you seek His purpose, He guides you where you need to be...but you might have to persevere through some difficult days. The writer of Hebrews reminds us, "You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised. (Heb. 10:36)"
Is your guilt weighing you down? Maybe it is time to listen to your guilt. We are reminded in Romans 8:1, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
What are some of your habits? Did you know that they become part of your character? Paul states in 1 Corinthians 15:33, "Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'"
Are you trusting God for your strength? Psalm 55:22 reminds us, "Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken."
Sunday Sermon from May 24, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based out of Psalm 127. Is God the one building, protecting, and providing for our homes? What can we learn from Psalm 127 to help us learn the proper way to build our homes? Maybe it is time for us to build the puzzle by trusting the One who is holding the complete picture.
What is Integrity? How can we live life with Integrity? Proverbs 19:1 reminds us, "Better the poor whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse."
So you messed up, you made a mistake...Make the most of it! Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:27, "God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."
Kindness is a tough thing in the world we live, but kindness builds character; Proverbs 11:17 says, "Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves."
Worship is a lifestyle, something we should do in ALL that we do. If we look to the Psalms, Psalm 100:2-3 reminds us, "Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture."
What about that still, small voice? You know, your conscience? How should we listen? Romans 14:23 says, "Everything that does not come from faith is sin."
Maybe you've been told never to ask for patience, but why should we? 2 Timothy 2:24 states, "Be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful."
Sunday Sermon from May 17, 2020 by Pastor Phillip Greene based out of Psalm 20. Who do you put your trust in? When you pray, do you pray in faith with assurance that things have already been won? When you face battles, who and what do you take with you?
Character and Maturity doesn't happen overnight, in fact, the journey may last a lifetime. Romans 12:2 says, "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."
Do you struggle to share your faith? Let go of the shy nature and just tell YOUR story! 1 Peter 3:15 says, "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."
Moving beyond fear in our lives, but how? Psalm 34:4 says, "I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears."
Living for a Purpose...Are you following yours? Colossians 1:16 reminds us, "For in him all things were created; things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him."
What are we focused on? Are you willing to turn your focus to God and His will for your life? Proverbs 4:25-27 instructs us, "Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right of the left; keep your foot from evil."
Sometimes leadership comes naturally, sometimes we find ourselves in a position that isn't comfortable as a leader. Proverbs 21:1 says, "In the Lord's hand the king's heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him."
Sunday Sermon from May 10, 2020 - Sermon by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 19. How is God speaking to you today? There are many ways that God speaks to His children today, are you listening?
How do we benefit from forgiveness? Not us being forgiven, but offering forgiveness to others? Matthew 18:21-22 says, "Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
What happens when we face adversity? How do our difficult days develop us? Psalm 46:1-2 says to us, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."
Prayer helps us to build our character; it helps us grow in our relationship with God. Matthew 21:22 reminds us, "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
What does optimism do for our attitude and character? Philippians 4:13 reminds us, "I can do all this through Him who gives me strength."
How can we build character? By studying God's Word. 1 Timothy 4:6 says, "You will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed."
Life is full of little choices we make. Deuteronomy 30:19-20 says, "This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to Him."
Sunday Sermon from May 3, 2020 - Sermon by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 11 focusing on our fight or flight mentalities and the blessing of remaining in the fight with God.
What can a life of discipline and self-control do for us? 1 Corinthians 9:27 says, "I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
Temptation. You go through it daily. Look at 1 Corinthians 10:13 with us to see how this can be a time of blessing rather than struggle.
What does your faith look like? Can you move the mountains in front of you? Mark 11:23 reminds us, "Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them."
What kind of example are you setting? 1 Timothy 4:12 says, "Don't let them look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity."
What or who are you committed to? Matthew 6:33 says, "Seek FIRST the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
Honesty truly is the best policy and we look at how that will impact us in other decisions we make daily. Proverbs 12:22 says, "The LORD detests lying lips, but He delights in those who are trustworthy."
Sunday Sermon from April 26, 2020 - Sermon by Pastor Phillip Greene based in Psalm 17 exploring David as he sought shelter from God during a difficult time.
With the times we are in, we are finding new ways to bring our congregation together. We hope this will be a blessing to you!