In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
For love to be real it has to be manifested - that is, it has to come to life. God's love for us was manifested when Jesus was born. God's love came alive and dwelt among mankind. Throughout His life Jesus' love was manifested. His is the greatest love. He proved that when he said in John 15:13, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends," and then He laid down His life. That sacrifice manifested His love to all people everywhere. Your greatest gift this Christmas has already been given to you. I hope you will share the real love of Christ with everyone you'll be with throughout the Holidays. Pastor John
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
John 1:14
And the word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His Glory. The Glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
Before Christ was born, God seemed distant to so many people. At His birth, prophecy was fulfilled - the words became real, real flesh and real divinity. It's meaningful to me that the first group of people to receive the news of this universe-changing birth was those shepheres on the hillside. The King of Kings was showing that He had come for all people, from the lowliest to the mightiest. Today we know that He came and conquered everything that separated us from Him. Revelations 1:6 tells us that Christ made us "kings and priests." When you feel lowly like the shepherds, remember to whom Christ first heralded His arrival.
Before Christ was born, God seemed distant to so many people. At His birth, prophecy was fulfilled - the words became real, real flesh and real divinity. It's meaningful to me that the first group of people to receive the news of this universe-changing birth was those shepheres on the hillside. The King of Kings was showing that He had come for all people, from the lowliest to the mightiest. Today we know that He came and conquered everything that separated us from Him. Revelations 1:6 tells us that Christ made us "kings and priests." When you feel lowly like the shepherds, remember to whom Christ first heralded His arrival.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Malachi 4:2
But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture. Malachi 4:2
The word fear in this verse means more than just revere. It refers to a reverential trust and includes a hatred of evil. The evidence of this is in the next verse (4:3), And ye shal tread down the wicked....The result of this reverential trust is the covering of God upon our lives - the covering of His wings with healing, security and the knowledge that we belong to God. This reverential trust gives us the freedom to run, to grow and to overcome whatever comes against us. Find this Godly fear and walk in the reverence of God and His awesome splendor. I pray that this Christmas Season is your best ever as you live in his Blessed Covering. Pastor John.
The word fear in this verse means more than just revere. It refers to a reverential trust and includes a hatred of evil. The evidence of this is in the next verse (4:3), And ye shal tread down the wicked....The result of this reverential trust is the covering of God upon our lives - the covering of His wings with healing, security and the knowledge that we belong to God. This reverential trust gives us the freedom to run, to grow and to overcome whatever comes against us. Find this Godly fear and walk in the reverence of God and His awesome splendor. I pray that this Christmas Season is your best ever as you live in his Blessed Covering. Pastor John.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Habbakuk 2:2
And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.
God desires for His people to be visionaries. He loves for His children to expect great things to happen as they display their faith and trust in Him. When God reveals a vision or spiritual truth to us we are to write it down plainly, so whoever sees it can read it and run with it. The Prophets saw and wrote down the vision of Christ coming to save His people. We are nearing the year's end, and we will soon celebrate the fulfillment of the Prophet's vision. I pray that the truth of Christ's coming is inscribed on your heart. I hope you will run and tell others that Christ has come and is Lord of you life. Let's make these Holidays "Holy Days", giving glory to God and expecting a fresh new vision for all who love Him.
Pastor John
God desires for His people to be visionaries. He loves for His children to expect great things to happen as they display their faith and trust in Him. When God reveals a vision or spiritual truth to us we are to write it down plainly, so whoever sees it can read it and run with it. The Prophets saw and wrote down the vision of Christ coming to save His people. We are nearing the year's end, and we will soon celebrate the fulfillment of the Prophet's vision. I pray that the truth of Christ's coming is inscribed on your heart. I hope you will run and tell others that Christ has come and is Lord of you life. Let's make these Holidays "Holy Days", giving glory to God and expecting a fresh new vision for all who love Him.
Pastor John
Colossians 2:6 & 7
As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Abounding with thanksgiving. Thanksgiving ought to be our second nature. As God's people we should take nothing for granted. So often we find ourselves so busy - too busy - to count our blessings. In fact, if we're not careful we find ourselves complaining about some things more than we thank God for the many good things. Let's count our blessings. Take time with family and friends to recall God's goodness. Take time to be thankful. Think of what a witness that will be to your unsaved loved ones. God Bless you. Pastor John
Abounding with thanksgiving. Thanksgiving ought to be our second nature. As God's people we should take nothing for granted. So often we find ourselves so busy - too busy - to count our blessings. In fact, if we're not careful we find ourselves complaining about some things more than we thank God for the many good things. Let's count our blessings. Take time with family and friends to recall God's goodness. Take time to be thankful. Think of what a witness that will be to your unsaved loved ones. God Bless you. Pastor John
Friday, November 11, 2011
Jonah 2:2
In my distress I called to the Lord, and He answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help, and you listened to my cry.
Jonah, by his own doing, found himself in total distress - - swallowed by a "great fish." He called on God, and God came to his rescue. Jonah's plight was the product of his own agenda. How many times have we called upon God to rescue us from our own actions that were not His desire for our lives? God is faithful, and it is in these times that we see His true unconditional love and patience. He delivers us from whatever has swallowed us up. He is the God of the second chance. You and I, no matter how deep we go in disobedience to God ,are never out of the reach of His forgiveness and grace. Pastor John
Jonah, by his own doing, found himself in total distress - - swallowed by a "great fish." He called on God, and God came to his rescue. Jonah's plight was the product of his own agenda. How many times have we called upon God to rescue us from our own actions that were not His desire for our lives? God is faithful, and it is in these times that we see His true unconditional love and patience. He delivers us from whatever has swallowed us up. He is the God of the second chance. You and I, no matter how deep we go in disobedience to God ,are never out of the reach of His forgiveness and grace. Pastor John
Saturday, November 5, 2011
John 6:41
The Jews then murmured at Him, because He said, I am the bread which came down from heaven.
Some were looking for miracles and some were just curious as to who Jesus was. However, when Jesus told them "I am the bread which came down from heaven," they were offended and questioned His words. Even some of His own discples said, "This is a hard saying, who can hear it?" They still had questions as to Jesus' identity. They obviously were not listening when He said, "For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world." Some of Jesus' teachings were so hard that "many of his disciples went back and walked no more with Him." My hope is that you will His teaching and will know Him in an even greater way. Pastor John
Some were looking for miracles and some were just curious as to who Jesus was. However, when Jesus told them "I am the bread which came down from heaven," they were offended and questioned His words. Even some of His own discples said, "This is a hard saying, who can hear it?" They still had questions as to Jesus' identity. They obviously were not listening when He said, "For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world." Some of Jesus' teachings were so hard that "many of his disciples went back and walked no more with Him." My hope is that you will His teaching and will know Him in an even greater way. Pastor John
Romans 8:14
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
What leads you? What is the driving force in your life? Is Christ moving you in His way or are you moving in your own way? Being led by the Spirit of God requires you to invest yourself into your Heavenly Father's family business. There is no other way to acquire the most powerful sense of belonging. Be led by the Holy Spirit and you'll find that you are not without blessings as God's Children. According to Romans 8:17, being led by the Spirit of God brings us into an eternal inheritance with Christ. You will find that following the Spirit's lead comes with a price, but the dividends are out of this world. Pastor John
What leads you? What is the driving force in your life? Is Christ moving you in His way or are you moving in your own way? Being led by the Spirit of God requires you to invest yourself into your Heavenly Father's family business. There is no other way to acquire the most powerful sense of belonging. Be led by the Holy Spirit and you'll find that you are not without blessings as God's Children. According to Romans 8:17, being led by the Spirit of God brings us into an eternal inheritance with Christ. You will find that following the Spirit's lead comes with a price, but the dividends are out of this world. Pastor John
Luke 10:2
Therefore He said unto them, The Harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the Harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his Harvest.
Today we have a great reason to celebrate....It's the harvest time of the year! Notice that Jesus refers to this harvest as his(God's) harvest. God's is the greatest harvest. The crops that we gather from the fields will eventually be consumed and gone, but the harvest we reap for God is eternal. There is still a greater harvest ahead. I believe we are just beginning. As we see the harvest before us, let us pray that God will use us to be fruitful and that He, as a result, will bring more new harvesters to our aid.
Pastor John
Today we have a great reason to celebrate....It's the harvest time of the year! Notice that Jesus refers to this harvest as his(God's) harvest. God's is the greatest harvest. The crops that we gather from the fields will eventually be consumed and gone, but the harvest we reap for God is eternal. There is still a greater harvest ahead. I believe we are just beginning. As we see the harvest before us, let us pray that God will use us to be fruitful and that He, as a result, will bring more new harvesters to our aid.
Pastor John
Monday, October 24, 2011
John 12:12-13
On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet Him, and cried, "Hosanna: Blessed is the king of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord." John 12:12-13
He was hailed as the King but He rode in -- not on a prancing steed -- but a humble donkey. He was not accompainied by the dignitaries of Jerusalem, but by a small group of common men. When His entry parade was over He did not retire at the home of some important government official. Instead, He went to church. There He cleared out the unrighteous, greedy moneychangers and cleansed that sacred place. Can we be like Him? Do you know people who need to be invited to join the humble King's procession? Are there coworkers, neighbors or family members who need to receive the good news through you? How are you dealing with the temptation to rub shoulders only with the elite? Today, I ask you to behold Jesus as the humble, life-giving King that He is. Pastor John
He was hailed as the King but He rode in -- not on a prancing steed -- but a humble donkey. He was not accompainied by the dignitaries of Jerusalem, but by a small group of common men. When His entry parade was over He did not retire at the home of some important government official. Instead, He went to church. There He cleared out the unrighteous, greedy moneychangers and cleansed that sacred place. Can we be like Him? Do you know people who need to be invited to join the humble King's procession? Are there coworkers, neighbors or family members who need to receive the good news through you? How are you dealing with the temptation to rub shoulders only with the elite? Today, I ask you to behold Jesus as the humble, life-giving King that He is. Pastor John
Hosea 14:7
They that dwell under His shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine: The scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Hosea14:7
Israel had brought much heartache to God. In fact, God had disowned them for a season. They paid for their sins with blood, sweat and tears. However, in time God brought them back into His care, and He restored all that had been broken by their rebellion and idol worship. The Israelites had been a stench in God's nostrils, but the Lord sweetened them again with a new fresh scent. How often have we forsaken God? How often have we, by our own devices, separated ourselves from Him? How often has He brought us back and restored us with His grace and love? See, God's plan is redemption for every sinner - paid for by the blood, sweat and tears of our Lord Jesus Christ. Pastor John
Israel had brought much heartache to God. In fact, God had disowned them for a season. They paid for their sins with blood, sweat and tears. However, in time God brought them back into His care, and He restored all that had been broken by their rebellion and idol worship. The Israelites had been a stench in God's nostrils, but the Lord sweetened them again with a new fresh scent. How often have we forsaken God? How often have we, by our own devices, separated ourselves from Him? How often has He brought us back and restored us with His grace and love? See, God's plan is redemption for every sinner - paid for by the blood, sweat and tears of our Lord Jesus Christ. Pastor John
Nahum 1:3
The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. Nahum 1:3
John 4:8 tells us that God is Love. In 1 Corinthians 13:7, the Apostle Paul tells us that love endures all things. God, therefore, is patient (enduring all things). He has proven His patience with His people. We are quick to judge, accuse and question the righteousness of others, but God is slow to anger and, accordingly, slow to judge. He has given us His Word and opportunity to become knowledgeable of Him. According to Hosea 4:6 His people perish without this knowledge. In the verse above, Nahum also speaks of God's authority and how He has His way. I pray that God has His way in your life.
Pastor John
John 4:8 tells us that God is Love. In 1 Corinthians 13:7, the Apostle Paul tells us that love endures all things. God, therefore, is patient (enduring all things). He has proven His patience with His people. We are quick to judge, accuse and question the righteousness of others, but God is slow to anger and, accordingly, slow to judge. He has given us His Word and opportunity to become knowledgeable of Him. According to Hosea 4:6 His people perish without this knowledge. In the verse above, Nahum also speaks of God's authority and how He has His way. I pray that God has His way in your life.
Pastor John
Psalm 73:25 an 26
Whom have I in Heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: But God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever. Psalm 73:25-26
It can be a jungle out there. Things push us to the point that our health is stressed, our minds are distracted and our emotions are strained. The psalmist knew the cure for life's many cares. He knew that we have a God in heaven who has a better perspetive on all that we face. His plan is perfect...even if its sometime hard for us to understand. Give your all to Him. Pastor John
It can be a jungle out there. Things push us to the point that our health is stressed, our minds are distracted and our emotions are strained. The psalmist knew the cure for life's many cares. He knew that we have a God in heaven who has a better perspetive on all that we face. His plan is perfect...even if its sometime hard for us to understand. Give your all to Him. Pastor John
Colossians 4:2
Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2
Today we as a church are celebrating another milestone. Thirty-one years is a long time, but it seems like just yesterday that a group of 29 people set out to plant this church. God has blessed us from day one. There are a vast number of miracles to which we can testify. God has opened door after door to bring us to the place we are today... Have we arrived? No, but I feel that we are on a course and that there are miracles and testimonies still to come. I want to thank everyone who was present 31 years ago for your diligence and commitment. There is still more to do. The work of the Great Commission is still before us. Let us with prayer and diligence continue to be faithful, expecting greater things in the years ahead as we grow God's Church. Pastor John
Today we as a church are celebrating another milestone. Thirty-one years is a long time, but it seems like just yesterday that a group of 29 people set out to plant this church. God has blessed us from day one. There are a vast number of miracles to which we can testify. God has opened door after door to bring us to the place we are today... Have we arrived? No, but I feel that we are on a course and that there are miracles and testimonies still to come. I want to thank everyone who was present 31 years ago for your diligence and commitment. There is still more to do. The work of the Great Commission is still before us. Let us with prayer and diligence continue to be faithful, expecting greater things in the years ahead as we grow God's Church. Pastor John
Galatians 6:9
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9
You may recall that in the Spring we sowed our spring tithes and offerings into flower pots, so that we could reap a harvest in the fall. Well, fall has arrived. Are you expecting your harvest? Surely you haven't forgotten the seed you've sown. It is the harvest time, and that means it's a great time to reflect on God's blessings to us all. It is my hope that this new season will be a season of drawing closer to God, allowing His Spirit to move, and seeing the seed you sowed become a promise fulfilled. Pastor John
You may recall that in the Spring we sowed our spring tithes and offerings into flower pots, so that we could reap a harvest in the fall. Well, fall has arrived. Are you expecting your harvest? Surely you haven't forgotten the seed you've sown. It is the harvest time, and that means it's a great time to reflect on God's blessings to us all. It is my hope that this new season will be a season of drawing closer to God, allowing His Spirit to move, and seeing the seed you sowed become a promise fulfilled. Pastor John
Zechariah 4:6B
Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord. Zechariah 4:6B
Too often we put our trust and confidnence in things of life that impress us. Too often these things fail us. Thusly Zechariah, anointed by God to write these words, speaks this powerful truth to every believer. The Holy Spirit was not new to the Church in the Book of Acts. He had been active and moving throughout the Old Testament as well. During Zechariah's ministry, God's people needed a word of encouragement. They were transitioning from Babylonian captivity and striving to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. Zechariah makes it clear that if you are building a house of worship, it must be founded upon the principles of God and empowered by His Holy Spirit. Pastor John
Too often we put our trust and confidnence in things of life that impress us. Too often these things fail us. Thusly Zechariah, anointed by God to write these words, speaks this powerful truth to every believer. The Holy Spirit was not new to the Church in the Book of Acts. He had been active and moving throughout the Old Testament as well. During Zechariah's ministry, God's people needed a word of encouragement. They were transitioning from Babylonian captivity and striving to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. Zechariah makes it clear that if you are building a house of worship, it must be founded upon the principles of God and empowered by His Holy Spirit. Pastor John
Joel 2:28
And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and you sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. Joel 2:28
The opening phrase of this verse "And it shall come to pass afterward..." is more than just a simple introduction. It contains two very significant words: it and afterward. It is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Afterward distinguishes when this outpouring will take place. Joel speaks to Israel for the Lord, telling them that repentance must be followed by putting God in the center of all that they do. They must know Him as their God, and no one else. You can see this in the preceding verse, Joel 2:27. Is God in the center of all your plans and desires? Is He the number one priority in your life? The Holy Spirit is sensitive to our priorities. When God is foremost, His blessing is utmost. Pastor John
The opening phrase of this verse "And it shall come to pass afterward..." is more than just a simple introduction. It contains two very significant words: it and afterward. It is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Afterward distinguishes when this outpouring will take place. Joel speaks to Israel for the Lord, telling them that repentance must be followed by putting God in the center of all that they do. They must know Him as their God, and no one else. You can see this in the preceding verse, Joel 2:27. Is God in the center of all your plans and desires? Is He the number one priority in your life? The Holy Spirit is sensitive to our priorities. When God is foremost, His blessing is utmost. Pastor John
Monday, October 17, 2011
Psalm 133:1
Behold how Good and how Pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in Unity.
It is sad to hear news of family break-ups - those occasions when brothers, sisters and parents are at odds with one another and family communication lines are broken. God designed families to be unified with love and understanding. Today I want to express how important family devotions are in unifying our families. Our devotion to God will strengthen the devotion we have for one another. David goes on in Psalm 133:3 to tell us that where we are in unity is where God commands His blessings, including life forevermore. So, the truth indeed is: the family that prays together stays together. Pastor John
It is sad to hear news of family break-ups - those occasions when brothers, sisters and parents are at odds with one another and family communication lines are broken. God designed families to be unified with love and understanding. Today I want to express how important family devotions are in unifying our families. Our devotion to God will strengthen the devotion we have for one another. David goes on in Psalm 133:3 to tell us that where we are in unity is where God commands His blessings, including life forevermore. So, the truth indeed is: the family that prays together stays together. Pastor John
Psalm 119:9
Wherewithall shall a young man clease his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word.
How can a young man cleanse his way? The answer is simple to this psalmist. It is to heed the Word of God. In verse 10, he states, "With my whole heart I have sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments." He is committed to pursuing God and His truth. He is not being lax in his desire for righteousness. That's how he comes to this conclusion in verse 11: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." Today, take the Word of God and hide it in your heart that you might not sin against Him. Pastor John
How can a young man cleanse his way? The answer is simple to this psalmist. It is to heed the Word of God. In verse 10, he states, "With my whole heart I have sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments." He is committed to pursuing God and His truth. He is not being lax in his desire for righteousness. That's how he comes to this conclusion in verse 11: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." Today, take the Word of God and hide it in your heart that you might not sin against Him. Pastor John
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
The point that best gets my attention in this verse is that even though we have a necessity for humility, prayer, and turning from wickedness, God still calls us His people. In other words, He is still our Father, He hasn't disowned us. He still longs to hear from us and fellowship with us. We are truly a prodigal nation even though we were founded on Godly principles. Our Faither longs to renew our relationship and receive us back into His good graces. Pastor John.
The point that best gets my attention in this verse is that even though we have a necessity for humility, prayer, and turning from wickedness, God still calls us His people. In other words, He is still our Father, He hasn't disowned us. He still longs to hear from us and fellowship with us. We are truly a prodigal nation even though we were founded on Godly principles. Our Faither longs to renew our relationship and receive us back into His good graces. Pastor John.
Psalm 113:3
From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, the Lord's Name is to be PRAISED!!
No scriptures are quoted in daily devotionals more than the Psalms. King David and his musicians covered every aspect of God's blessings and faithfulness in this collection of songs. According to Psalm 113:3, David had his devotions every day and all day long. Though the Bible shows us David's many failures, we see that he was restored after each loss. That is what much of his writings enforce. Thousands of years later David's words continue to ring out the testimony of God's greatness and benevolence. We still sing variations of Psalm 113 today. Like David, our daily devotions will have an effect on others around us, beginning in our homes and spreading out to the streets where we live. Pastor John
No scriptures are quoted in daily devotionals more than the Psalms. King David and his musicians covered every aspect of God's blessings and faithfulness in this collection of songs. According to Psalm 113:3, David had his devotions every day and all day long. Though the Bible shows us David's many failures, we see that he was restored after each loss. That is what much of his writings enforce. Thousands of years later David's words continue to ring out the testimony of God's greatness and benevolence. We still sing variations of Psalm 113 today. Like David, our daily devotions will have an effect on others around us, beginning in our homes and spreading out to the streets where we live. Pastor John
John 14:26
But the comforter which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my Name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your rememberance, whatsoever, I have said unto you. John 14:26
In John 14:26, Jesus is preparing His disciples for what is about to take place - His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension. Those events will happen so that He can prepare the early Church for the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. In John 16:7 Jesus tells His followers that these things are expedient to usher in the Holy Spirit who will empower them for ministry. The Comforter (Holy Spirit) is going to do two important things: teach them all things, and help them remember the things Jesus had told them. Today we need all the help we can get to remember the things of God. We need the truth of God's Word in all we do, in our family home, our church and our personal witness. Today let's invite the Holy Spirit into our lives and witness the power of God. Pastor John
In John 14:26, Jesus is preparing His disciples for what is about to take place - His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension. Those events will happen so that He can prepare the early Church for the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. In John 16:7 Jesus tells His followers that these things are expedient to usher in the Holy Spirit who will empower them for ministry. The Comforter (Holy Spirit) is going to do two important things: teach them all things, and help them remember the things Jesus had told them. Today we need all the help we can get to remember the things of God. We need the truth of God's Word in all we do, in our family home, our church and our personal witness. Today let's invite the Holy Spirit into our lives and witness the power of God. Pastor John
Proverbs 4:1 Hear ye, children, the instructions of the father.....
Hear ye, children, the instructions of the father and attend to know understanding. Proverbs 4:1
In this verse Solomon speaks his wisdom to every one of us. To "attend to know understanding" is to listen up, pay attention and learn from your father's experience. This is a difficult thing for many children today because their fathers are not present. Due to the absence of fatherly examples, many children pick up or "attend to" other things. It is God's purpose for us to learn from our fathers. Dad, your influence is more important than you will ever know. Your example will affect generations to come. I thank God for righteous fathers who lead by good examples and train their children in God's ways. May God bless you and your family this day. Pastor John
In this verse Solomon speaks his wisdom to every one of us. To "attend to know understanding" is to listen up, pay attention and learn from your father's experience. This is a difficult thing for many children today because their fathers are not present. Due to the absence of fatherly examples, many children pick up or "attend to" other things. It is God's purpose for us to learn from our fathers. Dad, your influence is more important than you will ever know. Your example will affect generations to come. I thank God for righteous fathers who lead by good examples and train their children in God's ways. May God bless you and your family this day. Pastor John
Hebrews 11:6 But without Faith it is impossible to please him.....
But without Faith it is impossible to please Him, for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6
Many people in today's churches are just looking for a place to get lost in the crowd. Little diligence is needed, and even less commitment. But, just being part of the crowd does not make one part of God's work. One of the more popular ways that Christians use to avoid their calling is to just keep showing up where there is a lot of excitement, yet they are not involved in making any of that excitement happen. They are present, but not presenting. Hebrews 11:6 tells us that there are three things we must do to please God: Have faith, come to Him, and diligently pursue all He has for us. You will be rewarded, you will experience God daily, and you will please Him. No matter how deep in hiding you get, God knows where you are and He is still calling you to serve. Pastor John
Many people in today's churches are just looking for a place to get lost in the crowd. Little diligence is needed, and even less commitment. But, just being part of the crowd does not make one part of God's work. One of the more popular ways that Christians use to avoid their calling is to just keep showing up where there is a lot of excitement, yet they are not involved in making any of that excitement happen. They are present, but not presenting. Hebrews 11:6 tells us that there are three things we must do to please God: Have faith, come to Him, and diligently pursue all He has for us. You will be rewarded, you will experience God daily, and you will please Him. No matter how deep in hiding you get, God knows where you are and He is still calling you to serve. Pastor John
Exodus 15:26b I am the Lord that healeth thee.
Before Moses returned to Egypt to liberate Israel, we know that God identified Himself to Moses as Jehovah. the Great I AM. In this verse, God reveals to Moses and Israel that He is Jehovah Rapha, I AM THE LORD THAT HEALS. Here, at this crucial time in Israel's journey to the Promised Land, God offers Himself as the Healer, guaranteeing that He would heal the bitterness in the people and provide justice to their circumstances. God still speaks healing and justice to us today. Out of His love, He still cares for His children and keeps all of His promises. Pastor John
Ephesians 4:31
Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.
Bitterness is a cancer that can eat away at your spiritual life. It can take a once vibrant testimony and tear it to pieces. Bitterness is easily seen when displayed. It spreads faster than the common cold, and it threatens the survival of individuals, families, ministries and churches. In the verse above, Paul tells us to let bitterness and all of its counterparts be put away from us because they will hinder our walk with God. Bitterness leads to wrath and uncontrolled anger. That anger can become a clamor -- out of control completely. At that point, evil things can be spoken out of malice. Malice is the intent to harm someone. So you see, nothing good comes out of a bitter spirit. I hope that you have no root of bitterness in you today, but if you do, remember that there is healing in forgiveness. Pastor John
Bitterness is a cancer that can eat away at your spiritual life. It can take a once vibrant testimony and tear it to pieces. Bitterness is easily seen when displayed. It spreads faster than the common cold, and it threatens the survival of individuals, families, ministries and churches. In the verse above, Paul tells us to let bitterness and all of its counterparts be put away from us because they will hinder our walk with God. Bitterness leads to wrath and uncontrolled anger. That anger can become a clamor -- out of control completely. At that point, evil things can be spoken out of malice. Malice is the intent to harm someone. So you see, nothing good comes out of a bitter spirit. I hope that you have no root of bitterness in you today, but if you do, remember that there is healing in forgiveness. Pastor John
Saturday, October 15, 2011
And the Spirit and the bride say COME.
And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. Revelations 22:17
The invitation is out to "whosoever". I find it interesting and wonderful that the Bible closes with this invitation. The invitation is to come to Heaven, and it is for us all. It is described vividly by John who was given a revelation of the place earlier in chapter 22. Essentially, this is an invitation to a FAMILY REUNION -a reunion unlike any other. Yes, there will be loved ones there whom you haven't seen in years. There will also be family that you've never met, only heard about. But, unlike most reunions where you have to say goodbye to loved ones with whom you've celebrated, this reunion will have NO GOODBYES! This reunion will last forever! I hope to see you there! Pastor John
The invitation is out to "whosoever". I find it interesting and wonderful that the Bible closes with this invitation. The invitation is to come to Heaven, and it is for us all. It is described vividly by John who was given a revelation of the place earlier in chapter 22. Essentially, this is an invitation to a FAMILY REUNION -a reunion unlike any other. Yes, there will be loved ones there whom you haven't seen in years. There will also be family that you've never met, only heard about. But, unlike most reunions where you have to say goodbye to loved ones with whom you've celebrated, this reunion will have NO GOODBYES! This reunion will last forever! I hope to see you there! Pastor John
If the Son therefore shall make you free, Ye Shall be Free indeed! John 8:36
It's great to live in America and to be called an American! However, it saddens me to see so many people in our great country who settle for living in bondage. In their flesh they are free, but their spirits are captive to many binding things. Today we not only celebrate our freedom as citizens of the United States, but we also celebrate the liberty we have in Jesus who has set our spirits free. If you've been made free in Jesus you are free indeed! No matter your lineage, race or nationality, if Christ is your Savior then you are free! Pastor John
Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: Romans 1:6
Have you ever really thought about the calling of Christ on your life? When we think about it we too often focus of the work and responsibility the calling brings with it. We think about the commitment - the part about being a living sacrifice. We think about what we might have to give up, what we might miss out on in life. But, consider this: Most likely you will never be called upon by a leader of a nation. No king or queen will acknowledge you. Yet, you are a special subject in the mind of God. The King of Kings has summoned you to His side to be His servant. He has great, out of this world plans for you! Can you afford to neglect His call? His call is righteouness. His call is to service. His call is to make you more than you could ever imagine becoming on your own! Pastor John.
For where you treasure is.....
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Luke 12:34.
There's nothing wrong with having things. In fact, there are some things that we hold dear to our hearts. However, no thing should be permitted to take God's place in our hearts. Anything that causes us to lose focus on God or tempts our minds to wander from Him becomes an idol - a violation of the first two commandments. We should begin every day asking ourselves, "Where is God in my life today?" When God is primary in our hearts, all of the secondary things, people and ideas will be okay. He will see to it. So, who or what is your treasure today? Pastor John
There's nothing wrong with having things. In fact, there are some things that we hold dear to our hearts. However, no thing should be permitted to take God's place in our hearts. Anything that causes us to lose focus on God or tempts our minds to wander from Him becomes an idol - a violation of the first two commandments. We should begin every day asking ourselves, "Where is God in my life today?" When God is primary in our hearts, all of the secondary things, people and ideas will be okay. He will see to it. So, who or what is your treasure today? Pastor John
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God.
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! Psalms 139:17.
This verse comes from a Psalm of David. It seems he is amazed that God thinks about him, and he holds that idea in his heart. God thinks about all of us, and He intends to bless His children. In Jeremiah 29:11 we read that God thinks about giving us peace and bright futures. In Psalms 40:5, David says that God's thoughts towards us "are more than can be numbered." How much do you think about God? I guarantee you it doesn't come close to how much He thinks about you. There is a blessing promised when we turn our thoughts to God. The prophet speaks of this promise in Isaiah 26:3 when he says, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed upon thee." It only stands to reason that if God things about us so much, He would like us to think about Him often. Pastor John
This verse comes from a Psalm of David. It seems he is amazed that God thinks about him, and he holds that idea in his heart. God thinks about all of us, and He intends to bless His children. In Jeremiah 29:11 we read that God thinks about giving us peace and bright futures. In Psalms 40:5, David says that God's thoughts towards us "are more than can be numbered." How much do you think about God? I guarantee you it doesn't come close to how much He thinks about you. There is a blessing promised when we turn our thoughts to God. The prophet speaks of this promise in Isaiah 26:3 when he says, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed upon thee." It only stands to reason that if God things about us so much, He would like us to think about Him often. Pastor John
All things work together for good.....
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28.
God does not call us to do a work that He will not lead us in and empower us to do. Bryan Cutshall, author of Get Up, Get Out, Get Blessed says, "God is trying to mold our character. He is more interested in the finished product than in the comfort of a single day." When the Apostle Paul penned Romans 8:28, he was not suggesting that all of the things that "work together" would necessarily be good or pleasant things. Like a giant jigsaw puzzle, the portrait of who we are is formed in the divine plan for our lives. Each circumstance we encounter may not seem to have a significant purpose, but when God writes the final chapter He will pull it all together with two words: "Well done!" Pastor John
God does not call us to do a work that He will not lead us in and empower us to do. Bryan Cutshall, author of Get Up, Get Out, Get Blessed says, "God is trying to mold our character. He is more interested in the finished product than in the comfort of a single day." When the Apostle Paul penned Romans 8:28, he was not suggesting that all of the things that "work together" would necessarily be good or pleasant things. Like a giant jigsaw puzzle, the portrait of who we are is formed in the divine plan for our lives. Each circumstance we encounter may not seem to have a significant purpose, but when God writes the final chapter He will pull it all together with two words: "Well done!" Pastor John
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
God is Love
The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. Nahum 1:3
John 4:8 tells us that God is love. In 1 Corinthians 13:7 the Apostle Paul tells us that love endures all things. God, therefore, is patient (enduring all things). He has proven his patience with His people. We are quick to judge, accuse and question the righteousness of others, but God is slow to anger and, accordingly, slow to judge. He has given us His Word and opportunity to become knowledgeable of Him. According to Hosea 4:6 His people perish without this knowledge. In the verse above, Nahum also speaks of God's authority and how He has His way. I pray that God has His way in this series of messages from the minor prophets, and that they will have a major impact on your life. Watch our broadcasts live at Harbor Life Church.org. Pastor John
John 4:8 tells us that God is love. In 1 Corinthians 13:7 the Apostle Paul tells us that love endures all things. God, therefore, is patient (enduring all things). He has proven his patience with His people. We are quick to judge, accuse and question the righteousness of others, but God is slow to anger and, accordingly, slow to judge. He has given us His Word and opportunity to become knowledgeable of Him. According to Hosea 4:6 His people perish without this knowledge. In the verse above, Nahum also speaks of God's authority and how He has His way. I pray that God has His way in this series of messages from the minor prophets, and that they will have a major impact on your life. Watch our broadcasts live at Harbor Life Church.org. Pastor John
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