God Planned You as a Master Creation
Psalm 139:13-15For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
“Created by God”
Today we will begin to consider some scripture passages to discover just how wonderful, unique, and important you are. Nearly everyone dislikes something about his physique or her personality. Tall people wish they were shorter. Short people would give anything to be taller. Math whiz kids envy those who can read anything and figure out what it means. Athletes sometimes hate not being able to do as well in school as other kids do. It doesn’t really seem to matter what set of strengths God gave us, we can always find someone we would rather be like.
Today’s scripture tells us that God made each individual person on earth exactly the way he wanted them to be. He has a job for each of us to do that requires the precise set of strengths and weaknesses he programmed into us.
The talents and positive personality traits God gave us make it possible for us do particular things. Those who love grammar and reading often become writers. Those who have better-than-average physical strength or coordination can take on jobs like building things or hiking to isolated villages to share the gospel. We all appreciate the talents of pianists, guitar players and singers who can lead us in worship.
But what about our weaknesses? Shy people make incredible listeners. Those who struggle with reading may become engineers or businessmen. The athletically challenged frequently compensate by organizing events and encouraging others. God has another important purpose for giving us some weak points. He wants to be sure that we can sympathize with our friends who also have difficulties. Because we become stronger and more compassionate as the result of our struggles, we can help others do the same.
We must remember that God’s is reflected in everything He makes. He is absolutely and perfectly good. So, anything he creates has to be awesome. He made you exactly the way you are to do something that only you can do. What a concept!David, who wrote this Psalm, was the youngest in his family. His dad and brothers didn’t think he was even important enough to call away from the sheep when Samuel came to anoint the next king of Israel. But, God knew David would make a great king. After all, God created him for that purpose way before he was born. David had times when he wondered if God could ever use him, but he kept on obeying the Lord. As a result, he became one of the greatest heroes in the Bible. There are no unimportant jobs and no worthless people in God’s eyes. God created you for a job in his kingdom that is just as important as the one David did.
Today’s Prayer:
My God and my Creator, I thank you for making me different from every other human being. Thank you that your goodness and wisdom are expressed in the way you mixed up my DNA. Help me accept myself as your wonderful creation and find the role you have for me to play in your plans, today and always. Amen.
Written by Martha E Menne, Flagstaff AZ
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
Mark 8:34b-36
Life is a Gift . . .
Mark 8:34b-36
Jesus said, If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?
Don’t Waste It!
On March 23, 2006, three senior guys who had been carpooling together since they received their driver’s licenses, headed to their high school in West Central Minnesota. Today was to be extra special. They were joining the rest of their basketball teammates and heading to the MN State High School League Boys Basketball Tournaments.
Before they made it to their friends who were waiting at the school, a tragic car accident took place. The Lord took Adam home to Himself at the accident scene. He called Jon to his eternal home the next day.
A few weeks later Mike, Jon’s father, spoke to the still grieving students during a chapel assembly. He shared about the number of lives Jon was physically able to save through his being an organ donor. Mike confessed that one night he lay awake thinking about the person who received his son’s heart. A glut of emotions flooded his thoughts as he considered the gift. Who was this person? How old was he or she? As Mike considered all the possibilities, he grew angry . . . what if this individual was making poor choices, what if this person was an enemy of the cross, what if this person was wasting the life that was gifted to him?
As quickly as Mike’s mind flew in a thousand directions, his thoughts stopped in their tracks when he asked himself the same question about the life that Jesus had given to him through His death on the cross.
According to my daughters’ retelling of this chapel speech, Mike looked at the teenagers gathered in that place and asked, “What are you doing with the heart and life that Jesus gifted to you?” The question is sobering and still being processed as this group of kids wrestles with the deaths of their friends and the lives that they are still called to live.
Jesus said, “Whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.”
“In other words, it is better to lose your life than to waste it.” (John Piper, Don’t Waste your Life.)
You were made by God and for God. Don’t waste it.
Today’s Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for the life You have gifted me. Thank You for the gift of a new heart that You give to each person who believes in You as Lord and Savior. I want to lose my life for Your sake that I will save it! Please don’t let me waste my life. What a tragedy that would be! Instead help me to treasure You above all else. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Lenae Bulthuis
Renville, MN
Mark 8:34b-36
Jesus said, If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?
Don’t Waste It!
On March 23, 2006, three senior guys who had been carpooling together since they received their driver’s licenses, headed to their high school in West Central Minnesota. Today was to be extra special. They were joining the rest of their basketball teammates and heading to the MN State High School League Boys Basketball Tournaments.
Before they made it to their friends who were waiting at the school, a tragic car accident took place. The Lord took Adam home to Himself at the accident scene. He called Jon to his eternal home the next day.
A few weeks later Mike, Jon’s father, spoke to the still grieving students during a chapel assembly. He shared about the number of lives Jon was physically able to save through his being an organ donor. Mike confessed that one night he lay awake thinking about the person who received his son’s heart. A glut of emotions flooded his thoughts as he considered the gift. Who was this person? How old was he or she? As Mike considered all the possibilities, he grew angry . . . what if this individual was making poor choices, what if this person was an enemy of the cross, what if this person was wasting the life that was gifted to him?
As quickly as Mike’s mind flew in a thousand directions, his thoughts stopped in their tracks when he asked himself the same question about the life that Jesus had given to him through His death on the cross.
According to my daughters’ retelling of this chapel speech, Mike looked at the teenagers gathered in that place and asked, “What are you doing with the heart and life that Jesus gifted to you?” The question is sobering and still being processed as this group of kids wrestles with the deaths of their friends and the lives that they are still called to live.
Jesus said, “Whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.”
“In other words, it is better to lose your life than to waste it.” (John Piper, Don’t Waste your Life.)
You were made by God and for God. Don’t waste it.
Today’s Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for the life You have gifted me. Thank You for the gift of a new heart that You give to each person who believes in You as Lord and Savior. I want to lose my life for Your sake that I will save it! Please don’t let me waste my life. What a tragedy that would be! Instead help me to treasure You above all else. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Lenae Bulthuis
Renville, MN
Monday, September 14, 2009
Daniel 1:8
Standing Firm Under Fire
Daniel 1:8.“ Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine.”
How God blesses pure hearts
Imagine yourself in Daniel's position. As a member of the ruling class of Israel, he had been among the first Israelites taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar's conquering forces. Now he found himself under the control of a high official in the Babylonian government who ordered him to train for three years for a position in service to the king. The menu at the "royal training center" included rich meats, deserts and wine. Some items on the menu were not only unhealthy, but also taboo according to Jewish law.
Because of their Jewish training and strong convictions, Daniel and three of his friends took the risk of requesting a different diet. Four teenaged slaves of the most powerful ruler on earth approached the head guy in order to strike a deal. They proposed that they become vegetarians inso they could avoid offending God's dietary laws. Surprisingly, the commander agreed to let them have their way for ten days--undoubtedly believing that they wouldn't deteriorate too badly in such a short time.
Imagine the guard’s amazement when the four young men turned out to be significantly healthier than the rest of the trainees at the end of the test period. Having passed with flying colors, Daniel and his friends were allowed to continue their special diet.
However, the real test came at the end of the three year training course. Would they make it? Would they barely squeak by? Would they fail miserably? None of the above. When the tests were finally scored, the four Jewish vegetarians got the highest scores in the class. And not just a little higher. They scored ten times better than even the most experienced magicians and enchanters in the kingdom. God chose to bless Daniel and the others who maintained their values and obeyed his laws.
Every day we face decisions similar to Daniel's. Our friends, classmates and teachers place temptations before us that provide opportunities to either compromise or obey God. Will we participate in conversations or actions that smudge God’s reputation? Will we write an essay that reflects the world's ideas about an issue instead of God's? Will we chicken out when God gives us a perfect opportunity to identify ourselves as Christians? Or, will we choose to stand firm and become lights shining in the darkness?
God frequently places us in situations that demand taking a risk in order to do what we know will please him. The Lord blessed Daniel and his friends because he stood up for what he knew would please him. He will do the same for us. So, what will you do the next time such a situation arises in your life? Will you cave in and follow the crowd? Or, will you stand your ground in order to please God?
Today’s Prayer:
Holy Father, make me strong like Daniel. Help me every temptation to compromise as an opportunity to please you and receive your blessings. Give me the inner strength I need to dare to be different as I obey you. Amen.
Written by Martha E. Menne, Flagstaff Arizona
Daniel 1:8.“ Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine.”
How God blesses pure hearts
Imagine yourself in Daniel's position. As a member of the ruling class of Israel, he had been among the first Israelites taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar's conquering forces. Now he found himself under the control of a high official in the Babylonian government who ordered him to train for three years for a position in service to the king. The menu at the "royal training center" included rich meats, deserts and wine. Some items on the menu were not only unhealthy, but also taboo according to Jewish law.
Because of their Jewish training and strong convictions, Daniel and three of his friends took the risk of requesting a different diet. Four teenaged slaves of the most powerful ruler on earth approached the head guy in order to strike a deal. They proposed that they become vegetarians inso they could avoid offending God's dietary laws. Surprisingly, the commander agreed to let them have their way for ten days--undoubtedly believing that they wouldn't deteriorate too badly in such a short time.
Imagine the guard’s amazement when the four young men turned out to be significantly healthier than the rest of the trainees at the end of the test period. Having passed with flying colors, Daniel and his friends were allowed to continue their special diet.
However, the real test came at the end of the three year training course. Would they make it? Would they barely squeak by? Would they fail miserably? None of the above. When the tests were finally scored, the four Jewish vegetarians got the highest scores in the class. And not just a little higher. They scored ten times better than even the most experienced magicians and enchanters in the kingdom. God chose to bless Daniel and the others who maintained their values and obeyed his laws.
Every day we face decisions similar to Daniel's. Our friends, classmates and teachers place temptations before us that provide opportunities to either compromise or obey God. Will we participate in conversations or actions that smudge God’s reputation? Will we write an essay that reflects the world's ideas about an issue instead of God's? Will we chicken out when God gives us a perfect opportunity to identify ourselves as Christians? Or, will we choose to stand firm and become lights shining in the darkness?
God frequently places us in situations that demand taking a risk in order to do what we know will please him. The Lord blessed Daniel and his friends because he stood up for what he knew would please him. He will do the same for us. So, what will you do the next time such a situation arises in your life? Will you cave in and follow the crowd? Or, will you stand your ground in order to please God?
Today’s Prayer:
Holy Father, make me strong like Daniel. Help me every temptation to compromise as an opportunity to please you and receive your blessings. Give me the inner strength I need to dare to be different as I obey you. Amen.
Written by Martha E. Menne, Flagstaff Arizona
Friday, September 11, 2009
2 Corinthians 5:20
Ambassador Of....
2 Corinthians 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ as though God were pleading through us, we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.
“Ambassador” means to be a representative of a ruling authority.
We often hear about our nation’s ambassadors to other countries. They present petitions to the United Nations and try to help our citizens who find themselves in trouble in a foreign land. They represent our government and our citizens before the ruling authorities in countries around the world.
“Many of us are unaware of it, but we are ambassadors of whatever we allow to control our lives. We might find ourselves controlled by drugs, alcohol, lust, and lying. On the other hand, we could also be controlled by the Lord, with characteristics such as kindness, righteousness, goodness, and love.” (Dr. Edwin Louis Cole)
A person’s life is formed by his decisions and constructed by his words. We can either choose to be ambassadors of the Lord or ambassadors of Satan. If we choose to represent Satan, we are choosing death. Every temptation given in to, every sin, every act of rebellion will ultimately lead to destruction, given enough time and enough repetition. Every temptation resisted, every sin abandoned, every act of rebellion will lead to life, peace, and ultimate joy.
So ask yourself this question today: “What ruling authority do I represent? Who is controlling my life?” If you choose to rebel against God’s standards you are Satan’s faithful ambassador. But, if you determine to make obedience to God your trademark, you can represent him as a powerful representative. You can proclaim his good news and act in his authority wherever you go in the world.
Today’s Prayer:
Precious Jesus, I come before you right now asking that you would cleanse me inside and out. I ask that you would make me an ambassador of love and your goodness. I want to be a representative of your ruling authority. Thank you for your grace and love. In your name I pray, Amen.
Written by Lindsey Tenpenny, Flagstaff Arizona
2 Corinthians 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ as though God were pleading through us, we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.
“Ambassador” means to be a representative of a ruling authority.
We often hear about our nation’s ambassadors to other countries. They present petitions to the United Nations and try to help our citizens who find themselves in trouble in a foreign land. They represent our government and our citizens before the ruling authorities in countries around the world.
“Many of us are unaware of it, but we are ambassadors of whatever we allow to control our lives. We might find ourselves controlled by drugs, alcohol, lust, and lying. On the other hand, we could also be controlled by the Lord, with characteristics such as kindness, righteousness, goodness, and love.” (Dr. Edwin Louis Cole)
A person’s life is formed by his decisions and constructed by his words. We can either choose to be ambassadors of the Lord or ambassadors of Satan. If we choose to represent Satan, we are choosing death. Every temptation given in to, every sin, every act of rebellion will ultimately lead to destruction, given enough time and enough repetition. Every temptation resisted, every sin abandoned, every act of rebellion will lead to life, peace, and ultimate joy.
So ask yourself this question today: “What ruling authority do I represent? Who is controlling my life?” If you choose to rebel against God’s standards you are Satan’s faithful ambassador. But, if you determine to make obedience to God your trademark, you can represent him as a powerful representative. You can proclaim his good news and act in his authority wherever you go in the world.
Today’s Prayer:
Precious Jesus, I come before you right now asking that you would cleanse me inside and out. I ask that you would make me an ambassador of love and your goodness. I want to be a representative of your ruling authority. Thank you for your grace and love. In your name I pray, Amen.
Written by Lindsey Tenpenny, Flagstaff Arizona
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 41:10- Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
No matter what the circumstance is, God is strong enough!
No matter what the circumstance is, God is strong enough!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Youth News
· We will begin our new schedule on Sunday Sept. 13th. We will meet at 5:00pm in the Fellowship Hall for snack supper, and then Youth Worship will go until 7:00pm. Come as often as you can and bring your friends!
· Saturday Sept. 26th we will have our Fall Kick-Off Bash and Lock-in! The Youth Group from FUMC Chandler will be joining us for a day of fun and craziness around town followed by a night of fun and craziness in the Fellowship Hall. See Jesse for further details.
· Bring me your schedules for sports, band, color guard, drill team, etc. I want to know what you’re doing so that I can make surprise visits!
Have a great week!
· Saturday Sept. 26th we will have our Fall Kick-Off Bash and Lock-in! The Youth Group from FUMC Chandler will be joining us for a day of fun and craziness around town followed by a night of fun and craziness in the Fellowship Hall. See Jesse for further details.
· Bring me your schedules for sports, band, color guard, drill team, etc. I want to know what you’re doing so that I can make surprise visits!
Have a great week!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Wednesday Night
Hey Gang,
We will be meeting Wednesday night for Youth Worship. This will be our last Wednesday night meeting. We will take a break because of the move then resume on Sunday, Sept. 13th and begin meeting on Sunday nights. The schedule for Sunday nights will be 5:00pm- Snack Supper, 5:30pm worship time, 6:00-7:00pm Youth Activity time.
Have a great week and I’ll see you Wednesday.
We will be meeting Wednesday night for Youth Worship. This will be our last Wednesday night meeting. We will take a break because of the move then resume on Sunday, Sept. 13th and begin meeting on Sunday nights. The schedule for Sunday nights will be 5:00pm- Snack Supper, 5:30pm worship time, 6:00-7:00pm Youth Activity time.
Have a great week and I’ll see you Wednesday.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Colossians 3:12-14
Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tender-hearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. -Colossians 3:12-14
Scripture tells us that we love because God first loved us. Truly unselfish love can only come from the Lord and is the biggest sign that a person knows Jesus. The world will be a messed-up place until Jesus returns, but you can make it a Little nicer if you do everything out of love. Let love be your starting place and you ending; cover everything you say and do with love and I guarantee you that there will be a difference in your life.
God bless you all and have a great week.
Scripture tells us that we love because God first loved us. Truly unselfish love can only come from the Lord and is the biggest sign that a person knows Jesus. The world will be a messed-up place until Jesus returns, but you can make it a Little nicer if you do everything out of love. Let love be your starting place and you ending; cover everything you say and do with love and I guarantee you that there will be a difference in your life.
God bless you all and have a great week.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Who is your neighbor?
This week, the Jr. High students are doing some work for elderly people in the church family. In our devotion times, we are discussing who our neighbors are and what it means to love our neighbors as we love ourselves.
Read the passage below, then leave a comment telling me who you think your neighbors are and what you can do to show them God's love
Luke 10
One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: "Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 Jesus replied, "What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?" 27 The man answered, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"* 28 "Right!" Jesus told him. "Do this and you will live!" 29 The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied with a story: "A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. 31 "By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by.32 A Temple assistant* walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side. 33 "Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him.34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins,* telling him, 'Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I'll pay you the next time I'm here.' 36 "Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?" Jesus asked. 37 The man replied, "The one who showed him mercy." Then Jesus said, "Yes, now go and do the same."
Read the passage below, then leave a comment telling me who you think your neighbors are and what you can do to show them God's love
Luke 10
One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: "Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 Jesus replied, "What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?" 27 The man answered, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"* 28 "Right!" Jesus told him. "Do this and you will live!" 29 The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied with a story: "A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. 31 "By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by.32 A Temple assistant* walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side. 33 "Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him.34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins,* telling him, 'Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I'll pay you the next time I'm here.' 36 "Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?" Jesus asked. 37 The man replied, "The one who showed him mercy." Then Jesus said, "Yes, now go and do the same."
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. -Ephesians 2:10
Wow! What a concept! Take hold of the first part of this verse, you are God's masterpiece!
When I think of a masterpiece, the first thing in my mind is art, especially sculptures. A sculptor works tirelessly to perfect a masterpiece. He chips away at it, one tiny piece at a time until it is exactly the way he wants it. Then he smooths it out so that it shines perfectly.
You are God's masterpiece! He will chip away at the things in your life that keep you from being more like Him, then he will smooth out the rough edges to make you shine.
God has a specific plan for your life. He wants to use you in a certain way to do His work on earth and bring Him glory. It is only after He has "sculpted" you to be more like Jesus that you will be ready for Him to use.
Sometimes the chisel of God will cause pain, but that pain is part of the process of growing. Never think though that the pain is a sign that God is mad at you or doesn't like you, for that is never true. God wants you to be the person He created you to be but He must get rid of the things you chose to cling to in this world. The pain that comes from having these things removed will never be as bad as the pain you will feel if you reach eternity without being who God wants you to be.
Wow! What a concept! Take hold of the first part of this verse, you are God's masterpiece!
When I think of a masterpiece, the first thing in my mind is art, especially sculptures. A sculptor works tirelessly to perfect a masterpiece. He chips away at it, one tiny piece at a time until it is exactly the way he wants it. Then he smooths it out so that it shines perfectly.
You are God's masterpiece! He will chip away at the things in your life that keep you from being more like Him, then he will smooth out the rough edges to make you shine.
God has a specific plan for your life. He wants to use you in a certain way to do His work on earth and bring Him glory. It is only after He has "sculpted" you to be more like Jesus that you will be ready for Him to use.
Sometimes the chisel of God will cause pain, but that pain is part of the process of growing. Never think though that the pain is a sign that God is mad at you or doesn't like you, for that is never true. God wants you to be the person He created you to be but He must get rid of the things you chose to cling to in this world. The pain that comes from having these things removed will never be as bad as the pain you will feel if you reach eternity without being who God wants you to be.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
A Great Opportunity
The Youth Group has an awesome opportunity to help the needy of the Texarkana Community.
I propose that we begin this month with making bags of groceries available for needy people who come by our church. We can contribute the money from our budget and also donate our own money so that we can buy about $100 worth of non-perishable food items, (cereal, maccaroni, canned meat, etc.) to be divided amongst 5-10 paper bags to be given out to those in need.
This will be a great opportunity for us to minister to our neighbors. And, once we move to our new building, we can look at joining with other church members to create a food bank that will allow us to further help those in need.
Let me know what you think about this!
I propose that we begin this month with making bags of groceries available for needy people who come by our church. We can contribute the money from our budget and also donate our own money so that we can buy about $100 worth of non-perishable food items, (cereal, maccaroni, canned meat, etc.) to be divided amongst 5-10 paper bags to be given out to those in need.
This will be a great opportunity for us to minister to our neighbors. And, once we move to our new building, we can look at joining with other church members to create a food bank that will allow us to further help those in need.
Let me know what you think about this!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Philippians 1:27
Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. -Philippians 1:27
Citizens of heaven! If you are a follower of Jesus, then you are a citizen of heaven.
When you meet someone from another country you immediately begin asking them questions about their homeland. Things that you have always been curious about just come spewing out of your mouth. You might ask a German about the AutoBahn, or an Australian about kangaroos. You may have read about these things before but, now you can talk to someone who has experienced them firsthand.
This is how Christians are supposed to be to the world. We are citizens of heaven and we should be able to answer the questions people have about our homeland.
We should also live in a manner that is worthy of our homeland.
Americans get so tired of hearing about one of our people going to a foreign country and acting like a fool. They do something stupid and get on the news, then we look bad.
We, representatives of heaven, need to be mindful of how we make heaven look to other people. If we say that we are a Christian then we act stupid, we know that we have God's grace but it still makes a bad impression on people who are not Christians.
Just something to think about, I hope you all have a great week.
Citizens of heaven! If you are a follower of Jesus, then you are a citizen of heaven.
When you meet someone from another country you immediately begin asking them questions about their homeland. Things that you have always been curious about just come spewing out of your mouth. You might ask a German about the AutoBahn, or an Australian about kangaroos. You may have read about these things before but, now you can talk to someone who has experienced them firsthand.
This is how Christians are supposed to be to the world. We are citizens of heaven and we should be able to answer the questions people have about our homeland.
We should also live in a manner that is worthy of our homeland.
Americans get so tired of hearing about one of our people going to a foreign country and acting like a fool. They do something stupid and get on the news, then we look bad.
We, representatives of heaven, need to be mindful of how we make heaven look to other people. If we say that we are a Christian then we act stupid, we know that we have God's grace but it still makes a bad impression on people who are not Christians.
Just something to think about, I hope you all have a great week.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Hebrews 4:16
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:16 NLT
When I think about all that Christ accomplished on the Cross, one of the most amazing things is that, because of His blood, we can now enter the throne room of God.
The Old Testament tells us about the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. At the heart of the Temple was the Holy of Holies. This was were the Ark of the Covenant resided and its doorway was covered by a thick curtain. Only one person was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies, that was the High Priest and he could only go in once a year to make a sacrifice. Nobody else could enter the Holy of Holies, Nobody else could get that close to God.
The New Testament records that when Jesus died on the Cross, the curtain that covered the entrance to the Holy of Holies was ripped in two, from top to bottom. This showed that Jesus, as our Great High Priest, gives us entrance to the presence of God! If we are covered by the Blood of Jesus, then we have access to throne of God where we can commune with Him and He can shower us with His Love, Mercy, and Grace, what an amazing God we serve!
When I think about all that Christ accomplished on the Cross, one of the most amazing things is that, because of His blood, we can now enter the throne room of God.
The Old Testament tells us about the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. At the heart of the Temple was the Holy of Holies. This was were the Ark of the Covenant resided and its doorway was covered by a thick curtain. Only one person was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies, that was the High Priest and he could only go in once a year to make a sacrifice. Nobody else could enter the Holy of Holies, Nobody else could get that close to God.
The New Testament records that when Jesus died on the Cross, the curtain that covered the entrance to the Holy of Holies was ripped in two, from top to bottom. This showed that Jesus, as our Great High Priest, gives us entrance to the presence of God! If we are covered by the Blood of Jesus, then we have access to throne of God where we can commune with Him and He can shower us with His Love, Mercy, and Grace, what an amazing God we serve!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
FREEDOM!
It has been a very busy two weeks since my last post. I have missed you all too.
Today is the 4th of July and my thoughts have turned to freedom. Many brave Americans have died, physically and mentally, to preserve the freedom we enjoy everyday. I regrettably admit that I take my freedom for granted; but I am truly grateful to all who have given of themselves to ensure my rights to vote, speak, earn money, and especially worship as I choose.
Around 1,350,000 Americans have died in wars fought for this country.
The freedom we have as Americans is a glimpse of what the blood of Christ has purchased for us.
The blood of Christ has freed us (those who believe in it's power), from hopelessness, sin, and death itself.
Freedom can only be purchased with sacrifice. Thank those who have sacrificed to purchase the freedom of America; and thank Christ for sacrificing himself to purchase the freedom of faith.
Today is the 4th of July and my thoughts have turned to freedom. Many brave Americans have died, physically and mentally, to preserve the freedom we enjoy everyday. I regrettably admit that I take my freedom for granted; but I am truly grateful to all who have given of themselves to ensure my rights to vote, speak, earn money, and especially worship as I choose.
Around 1,350,000 Americans have died in wars fought for this country.
The freedom we have as Americans is a glimpse of what the blood of Christ has purchased for us.
The blood of Christ has freed us (those who believe in it's power), from hopelessness, sin, and death itself.
Freedom can only be purchased with sacrifice. Thank those who have sacrificed to purchase the freedom of America; and thank Christ for sacrificing himself to purchase the freedom of faith.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
I'll miss everybody!
Hey Gang,
A group of us will be at UMARMY for the next week and Mystery Trip for the week after that. I hope everyone has a blessed two weeks while we're gone.
Peace Out!
A group of us will be at UMARMY for the next week and Mystery Trip for the week after that. I hope everyone has a blessed two weeks while we're gone.
Peace Out!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Friday Morning Fellowship
We are going to the Dougnut Cafe and Coffee House for our fellowship time tomorrow. If you need a ride, please make sure that I know.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
John 3:16
John 3:16 "For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
I know we see it everywhere: on buses and billboards, football games, and t-shirts; but we must not loose the importance of this verse. Our entire belief in Christ is summed up in this verse, like God specifically wrote it as the tag-line of the whole Bible.
Everything that happens in the Bible describes God's work in mending the relationship that was lost in Eden. God loves us so much that He wants us to spend eternity with Him. But, because of sin, we cannot enter the Holy presence of God in Heaven. He was not okay with that so His Son, Jesus, came to Earth and died as a sacrifice for our sins to be forgiven. Now, because of faith in the Blood of Christ, we can be with God for eternity!
I know we see it everywhere: on buses and billboards, football games, and t-shirts; but we must not loose the importance of this verse. Our entire belief in Christ is summed up in this verse, like God specifically wrote it as the tag-line of the whole Bible.
Everything that happens in the Bible describes God's work in mending the relationship that was lost in Eden. God loves us so much that He wants us to spend eternity with Him. But, because of sin, we cannot enter the Holy presence of God in Heaven. He was not okay with that so His Son, Jesus, came to Earth and died as a sacrifice for our sins to be forgiven. Now, because of faith in the Blood of Christ, we can be with God for eternity!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Mystery Trip
Everyone who is going on Mystery Trip please find me this Sunday morning. I have something for you.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Starbucks
We are going to Starbucks for our fellowship time tomorrow. If you need a ride, please make sure that I know.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Galations 1:10
Galations 1:10 (NLT) Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant.
Wow! Paul the apostle lays it all out there. As long as he knows that he is doing what God wants him to do, it doesn't matter to him if he is "liked" or not.
This is really hard for me. I am a people pleaser. I like to know that everyone around me is happy and I like to play a part in making them happy. But, I cannot be a "people pleaser" and do God's will at the same time. Life is full of choices. Do I want the approval and happiness of the people around me; or do I wan the approval and happiness of the God who died for me; the God whom I have to account to for all eternity?
Now I'm not saying that Jesus wants us to be rude and insensitive. We should make an effort to keep from hurting the feelings of people, but not at the expense of our call to spread the Gospel.
If you have to choose between hurting someone's feelings and doing the will of God, choose the will of God.
Wow! Paul the apostle lays it all out there. As long as he knows that he is doing what God wants him to do, it doesn't matter to him if he is "liked" or not.
This is really hard for me. I am a people pleaser. I like to know that everyone around me is happy and I like to play a part in making them happy. But, I cannot be a "people pleaser" and do God's will at the same time. Life is full of choices. Do I want the approval and happiness of the people around me; or do I wan the approval and happiness of the God who died for me; the God whom I have to account to for all eternity?
Now I'm not saying that Jesus wants us to be rude and insensitive. We should make an effort to keep from hurting the feelings of people, but not at the expense of our call to spread the Gospel.
If you have to choose between hurting someone's feelings and doing the will of God, choose the will of God.
Community Meal
This Saturday is the Youth Group's turn to assist with Community Meal. Be there or be an L7 Weenie!
The Blog has arrived
It's taken longer than I hoped, but we finally have a blog for our Youth Group! We have taken another step into the digital age. We have boldly gone where many, many people have already gone; at least we will have some company.
In case you haven't figured it out, this is the blog for the B.C.U. Youth Group at Hardy Memorial UMC in Texarkana, TX. We are a group of young people who love Jesus, love having fun, and love each other (most of the time). If you are in the Texarkana area and are in 6th - 12th grade, we invite you to join us.
I will attempt to update this blog once a week and anytime there are special announcements to share.
In case you haven't figured it out, this is the blog for the B.C.U. Youth Group at Hardy Memorial UMC in Texarkana, TX. We are a group of young people who love Jesus, love having fun, and love each other (most of the time). If you are in the Texarkana area and are in 6th - 12th grade, we invite you to join us.
I will attempt to update this blog once a week and anytime there are special announcements to share.
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