SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – TREASURES IN HEAVEN.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. - Matthew 6:19-20.

Where do you hide your heart?

What we most value is where we will find our heart. So it is an important question. You see, we can treasure riches, control, security, and relationships.

Jesus reminds us that it is only by turning loose of the things that most of us keep as our treasures that we find what is truly treasure indeed.

Loving Heavenly Father, I pray that out of the riches of your grace, you may help me find my treasure in you, and nothing else. By the power of the Holy Spirit, I want to offer you all that I am and have, so that my life will be lived for your glory. In the mighty, and wonderful name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – WISDOM.

My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. 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. - James 3:12-13.

Wisdom is proven right by the character of a loving lifestyle.

It is so easy, however, for someone to be arrogantly intelligent, and be dumber than a post at spiritual wisdom.

Which are you closer to in your walk with Jesus, wisdom expressed through humble and loving lifestyle, or smart with feelings of superiority and arrogance?

Loving Heavenly Father, I know you have been a wise and loving Father to me. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to share that care you have lavished on me, on the person who most needs it today. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – BE DILIGENT!

Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. - 1Timothy 4:15-16.

“Be diligent!” That's not a saying you hear much about these days. We want things to come easily.

Sweat in the world of pseudo-faith is frowned upon. But, Paul wanted Timothy (and us) to know that maturity in Christ requires genuine effort. Having a redemptive influence on others is hard work. While it is God's power that transforms, our effort is also required.

God gives us the assurance, that this effort will not only bear fruit in our own lives, but it will also lead others to Salvation as well.

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, stir my confidence, courage, diligence, and determination, so that the Salvation you have blessed me with can be shared with others, because of my life, my teaching, and my example. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – DON’T SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS!!

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. - 1 John 5:13.

Yes, we can know! Don't settle for anything less!!

Confidence is so crucial that God sent his Son to die and be raised so we could know that life is our destination, not just our journey.

While that life is experienced now, it is only a hint, a foretaste, of what lies ahead in our future with the Lord.

Loving Heavenly Father, I thank you for your plan of salvation, and the cost you paid to make it happen. I thank you that I can now have confidence in my future with you as your child. I thank you for heaven, for hope, and for my home with you. To you belong all the glory and praise, and in your wonderful name, Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – BOAST ONLY IN THE CROSS!

May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. - Galatians 6:14.

What is your source of pride?

Paul reminds us that our one, true, and reliable source of boasting, is in what the Lord has done for us on the Cross.

All other reasons to boast are fleeting glimpses at empty prominence, compared to the joy and assurance of sharing in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

Loving Heavenly Father, forgive me, for the times I have thought myself important because of some temporary achievement. Thank you for giving me a foundation source, of boasting in Jesus' love and grace, demonstrated in the Cross. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to be aware of these, at all times. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – DON’T DISAPPOINT OUR FATHER.

If any of you are ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of you when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. - Luke 9:26.

Some of the saddest words a loving child ever can hear are these: "I'm so disappointed in you."

We don't want that to be the reaction of our Heavenly Father.

We want the world to know that we love and honour Jesus as Lord, so they can come to know our Saviour too, and that we can bring delight to our Father in Heaven, and not be a disappointment to Him!

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, give me boldness, wisdom, and respect as I seek to stand up for Jesus each day. May my words and my life, declare my allegiance to Jesus, as my Lord and Saviour. I ask this in His mighty name. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – SALVATION BELONGS TO OUR JESUS!

And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” - Revelation 7:10.

From the voices of those who know, the message is clear!

God reigns and with his rule comes salvation. This is because of the Lamb who was willing to be slain, but who triumphed over death.

Because of the Lamb's work and faithfulness, we can be assured of heaven.

Loving Heavenly Father, I thank you for providing salvation, by extending your grace to me in Jesus. Thank you, Jesus, for offering yourself to be the Lamb sacrificed for my sins. I look forward to heaven and seeing you face to face, and praising you with the angels, the martyrs, the elders, and other faithful Christians before the throne. To you, O Lord, belongs all praise, honor, glory, and thanks. I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – SPIRITUAL WARFARE!

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. - Ephesians 6:13.

Since we are in a spiritual war, we must put on spiritual armour.

More than saying our daily prayers and perfunctorily reading our daily Scriptures, we must learn to recognise the spiritual armour God has given us for our spiritual protection and prepare ourselves for spiritual warfare. We should approach each day, each task, each Scripture, with a sense of urgency because we know we are at war.

The day of evil will come, so let's be ready to take our stand using the tools God has supplied, and the power he provides.

Loving Heavenly Father, empower me by your Holy Spirit; grant me boldness, because of your heavenly calling for me, and inspire me to be spiritually courageous, because of the example of Jesus. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – GENTLENESS.

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. - Philippians 4:5.

Extravagant over-reaction! That's what we're programmed to seek, and to display, in our modern world of sound bytes and over-hyped personality.

But gentleness, that moderating grace in the midst of chaos and conflict, is so vital to bring the peace of God to conflict-laden churches, families, and relationships. How can we be gentle, how can we restrain from over-reacting to the wounds, offenses, and slights that come our way?

The Lord is near! He is our vindication. He is our example. He is our comfort. He is our hope. He is our strength. He is near. We are not alone and our destiny, reputation, and value are not up to us to establish or to defend.

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to be gentle at all times, that my witness of you may be evident to all. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – SHARING OUR FAITH.

But 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. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. - 1 Peter 3:15-16.

How do we effectively share our faith, especially in situations hostile to faith?

First, we consciously submit our hearts to Christ as Lord. Second, we prepare a presentation of faith that focuses on the hope we have in Jesus. Finally, when we share our reason for hope, we do it with respect, gently sharing our faith with others.

Of course we would never have an opportunity to share our faith if we don't live a life of faith that makes an impact on those around us.

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to use my influence, and the quality of my life to bring others to Jesus. Grant me wisdom as I seek to bring the following friends to Christ: (Name them personally!) May my words and actions lead them closer to you, and show them my respect and love. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – REAL REFORM!

This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Reform your ways and your actions, and I will let you live in this place. - Jeremiah 7:3.

We often take for granted what we have, where we live, the friends who bless our lives, and the family that gives us a place to belong and grow.

All of these are all gifts to us from God. We don't deserve them. We don't earn them. But, we can surely destroy them. God wants us to live obediently, not just to please him, but also to protect ourselves and those we love.

So let's reform our actions and live for him and not for ourselves.

Loving Heavenly Father, forgive me if I have taken my gifts for granted. Thank you for your love and forgiveness, and for all the gifts you have bestowed upon me. By the power of the Holy Spirit, empower me, as I seek to turn my life around to live passionately for you, and your glory. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – THE COST OF PEACE.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, - Romans 5:1.

The cost of peace is always high.

Our peace was purchased by Jesus' enormous sacrifice. God made sure the price for our rebellion was paid, but he didn't make us pay it because we could never have fulfilled our obligation.

Instead, God paid it himself in Jesus.

Loving Heavenly Father, thank you for making peace, and bringing me back to you, at great cost to you. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for willingly surrendering yourself to the horrible cruelty of theCross. Thank you that I'm not treated as your enemy because of my sin, but as a lost sheep that needs to be found. Thank you for adopting me as your beloved child. In the mighty name of Jesus I offer my thanks and praise. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – GOD’S GENEROSITY, GRACE, AND LOVE.

You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today. - Deuteronomy 8:17-18.

What do we have that wasn't given to us, either by God's generous grace, unexpected blessing, disciplining hardship, providential opportunity, or good health?

And when we stand before the throne of judgment, what will our claim to grace be? Our claimon grace is based only God's generous and loving gifts that have made us pure, holy, and whole! Nothing we possess, accomplish, or buy can give us such a claim.

Only God's generosity, grace, and love can bring heaven's greatest gifts to us.

Loving Heavenly Father, I thank you for your wonderful and extravagant blessings. All that I have, all that I am, and all that I ever hope to be, exists only because of the mercy or grace you have lavished upon me. I thank you again, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS!

Do not envy the violent or choose any of their ways. For the Lord detests the perverse but takes the upright into his confidence. - Proverbs 3:31-32.

While many are seeking a cure for the rampaging violence that destroys lives, threatens schools, and makes our streets unsafe, why has no one bothered to remind us what God's wise servant taught us centuries ago?

Let's not let any person, real or fictional, be our hero if his or her fame is built on violence. The son of Israel's most famous warrior understood this better than anyone.

Surely the Son of the Most Powerful on High said it best: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Loving Heavenly Father, save us from the violence of our culture, and the worship of violence that pervades our land. Please give us heroes who are true peacemakers. In addition, by the power of the Holy Spirit, please give us eyes to see them, and the courage to honor them. In ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – LIVING WITH URGENCY!

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. - Ephesians 5:15.

Living with urgency doesn't mean living irresponsibly.

It means living with a holy abandon to honour God, and with a holy passion to make each moment count for righteousness.

That means we must be deliberate about our choices, taking care that we use our opportunities wisely as we live a life of character different from the world around us, because we are committed to Jesus.

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, fill me with wisdom, that I may honour you with my choices, and use of time today and everyday. Protect me from the deceptive influences of the evil one, and grant me a holy and productive use, of the time you bless me with each day. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus my Lord, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – DEMONSTRATE FOR GOD!

In their arrogance the wicked hunt down the weak, catching them in the schemes they devise. - Psalm 10:2.

God absolutely hates violence, intimidation, or any means used for the powerful to control, manipulate, or harass those who are weaker.

He loathes wickedness, which is based upon the strong and the mighty, plundering on the weak and powerless.

We should, by our actions and resources, demonstrate both to the weak and the powerless that there is a God of love.

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, give me a heart that despises the abuse of power, and the misuse of wealth. Thank you, Lord, for sending Jesus to save me when I was powerless to bring about my own salvation. My desire is to have a heart like Jesus, when I see others being taken advantage of. In the wonderful and mighty name Jesus, I ask this. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – LOVE THAT SURPASSES KNOWLEDGE!

So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. - Ephesians 3:17-19.

Love that surpasses knowledge.

That's very difficult to explain, but when you have loved your spouse for decades you experience what this means. When you love a child, and do what you never dreamed you could do for another human being, you understand this phrase.

And when you stand before God, adopted as a full heir of all His great riches, a full sibling to Jesus Christ the Lord, and know you are seen as holy without reproach, and blameless, you begin to understand this phrase.

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to know in my soul the lovethat is greater than words and knowledge, so that I may not only be like you, but that I may know you in experience, just as I know you in faith. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – THE REAL DEMONSTRATION OF LOVE

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. - 1 John 4:10.

Love is demonstrated, not just said.

Love goes ahead sharing itself instead of waiting until things are easy or safe. Love redeems when all hope seems lost.

Love is not only what God is, but it is also what he does and what he gives.

Loving Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me so extravagantly. By the power of the Holy Spirit help me to see the opportunities to love others whom you place in my path everyday. Use me to demonstrate your love to someone today and each day that follows. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – A PASSION FOR GRACE TOWARDS OTHERS!

For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. - Matthew 7:2.

Jesus is concerned that we not have a critical spirit toward others, especially about their motives as to why they did something.

We can't assume to know another person's heart; only God can. When we are unfairly critical, overly harsh, or unduly judgmental, we need to remember that God will use that same standard on us. I don't know about you, but I need grace. So do those I love.

I'm going to try very hard to be as gracious toward others, as I'm trusting that God, is going to be gracious with me.

Loving Heavenly Father, forgive me, for the times that I've been far more critical of others than I should be. Arouse within me a passion to be gracious toward others so that they can see your graciousness shining through me. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – A NEW WAY TO SERVE GOD!

But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code. - Romans 7:6.

We are free from Law! Does that mean anarchy and lawlessness? Absolutely not!

No, because the grace that freed us also brought God's Holy Spirit to live within. He can empower us to do what we could not do on our own. He can help us in our weakness to praywith confidence and boldness to the Father. With His help, we are brought into a circle of responsible people, tied by the grace of God, and the Spirit of Christ.

Thank God for the “new way!”

Loving Heavenly Father, thank you for redeeming and delivering me from the requirements of law, and placing your Holy Spirit in my heart to help me be more than I could ever be, trying to obey the Law. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus, I praise you. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – RICH THE WISE WAY!

Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. - 1Timothy 6:9.

This is not a message for folks who are financially rich.

No, this is for all of us who want to have that wealth. Craving it, coveting it, and going in pursuit of earthly wealth expose us to grave danger.

Let's be reminded of the words Jesus: Seek first God's Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.

Loving Heavenly Father, I thank you for your many blessings. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to be satisfied, and generous with the blessings you have already given to me. Help me to keep my focus on you and your Son! In the wonderful and mighty name of your Son and my Saviour, Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – JESUS RISEN AND EXHALTED!

The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead—whom you killed by hanging him on a cross. - Acts 5:30.

Peter is making clear that his faith in Jesus didn't just begin with Jesus, it began with the Patriarchs, the great Jewish fathers.

The God who blessed them also raised Jesus from the dead, even though Jesus had been executed in the most atrocious and humiliating way possible for a faithful Jew. He was nailed to a cross, wholly illegal, and a sign of being cursed under Jewish Law.

Praise God! He raised Jesus from the dead, exalted Him, and made him our Saviour and our Lord.

Loving Heavenly Father, I thank you for showing your power over evil, sin, hate, jealousy, and death. And I thank you that Jesus was raised from the dead and exhalted. In the wonderful name of Jesus, my Lord and Saviour, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, I offer my praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – AMAZEMENT AND AWE!

Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today.” - Luke 5:26.

Jesus forgave a man who was lame, and then showed He had authority to forgive, by healing him.

As exciting and important as this healing was, the most important thing was the response of those who witnessed it; they praised God out of a sense of amazed awe. They recognised that Jesus had come to minister as God's very presence.

When we understand who Jesus is and what He has done for us, and will continue to do for us, we do the same thing today; we offer our praises with a sense of amazement and awe.

Loving Heavenly Father, I venerate your name, and thank you for your grace which you so lavishly poured out on me through your Son and my Saviour, Jesus, in whose wonderful name I offer this praise. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – DISCIPLESHIP VALUES.

Everyone will hate you because of me, but those who stand firm to the end will be saved. - Matthew 10:22.

Jesus' words are very strong! His emphasis is for a reason. Christians need to realise that they are not going to be the dominant culture. Discipleship can be hard and demanding; most folks want things simple and easy.

The values that disciples are called to put into place in their lives are not going to be the dominant cultural ones. "So be ready!" Jesus is telling us. "Be ready to face criticism and rejection." But while we know it may be an uphill battle to change the hearts of men and women, we can be God's tool to bless others and to lead them closer to him!

And for us, salvation in all its glory awaits us at the end of the journey.

Loving Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have grown impatient with the world around and started seeing it as the enemy rather than as the target of your grace. By the power of the Holy Spirit, give me the wisdom and the courage to balance my understanding of the world, with your passion to redeem it. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – STAND UP FOR JESUS!

Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! - Acts 5:29.

Against a stern warning from the ruling council in Jerusalem, called the Sanhedrin, Peter and the apostles proclaimed Jesus as Lord.

They knew that Jesus had triumphed over the attempts of his enemies to extinguish Him and His ministry. The apostles blatantly disobeyed the orders of the very same people who had Jesus crucified. By any standard, that is faithful courage.

How are you doing in the "standing up for Jesus" battle?

Loving Heavenly Father, empower me by your Holy Spirit to be bold. With His help, I do not want to ever back down from my convictions, nor ever renounce my faith in Jesus, in whose wonderful and mighty name I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – RUN TO JESUS!

Lord my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me, or they will tear me apart like a lion and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me. - Psalm 7:1.

Who or what is pursuing you?

Is it a past mistake? Is it an old enemy? Is it your conscience? Is it a nagging sense of guilt? Is it someone who wants to do you physical harm? Is it a physical illness? In the middle of all the storms and struggles of life, where do you go to find peace and security?

There is only One who can be a true and lasting refuge. Just One!

Loving Heavenly Father, you are my refuge and source of strength when my courage is gone and my soul is weary. Lord, destroy all the forces and powers and enemies that pursue me, that seek to take me captive and draw me away from you. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – PURE LOVE!

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8.

God didn't wait till we were “good enough” to bring us His Salvation. Instead, He came when we were most lost, and needed His grace the most.

But then, that's what love really means by God's definition… For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16.

It's more than something declared or felt, it's something radically demonstrated.

Loving Heavenly Father, I thank you, for demonstrating your love in such powerful, radical, and sacrificial way. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to share this love, with those who don’t know you yet. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – PURE RELIGION!

Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him—his name is the LORD. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. - Psalm 68:4-5.

Every time I read the above scripture, I can't help but think of what James, the brother of Jesus said: Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. - James 1:27.

The principles which James specifies are:

(1) That pure religion will lead to a life of practical kindness;
(2) That it will keep us unpolluted from the world.

If these things are found, they show that there is true Godliness. If they are not, there is none.

Without a doubt, Jesus showed clearly, that this was the Father's heart in His ministry. Now it is up to us to continue it!

Loving Heavenly Father, may my life, my compassion, and my ministry reflect your heart for those who need care and protection and love. By the power of the Holy Spirit, give me eyes to see this need more clearly, and a heart to respond more positively, so that your love may be demonstrated through me. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – ALWAYS REPLENISHED!

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. - John 6:35. TNIV

We all require food and drink at regular intervals during the day. For most of us at the weekend, food and drink occupies our thoughts, and fills up most of our activities; Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Sunday Lunch, Dining Out, Home Baking, BBQ’S, etc;

But deep in our soul is a hunger, a soul hunger. So deep, that it cannot be satisfied by food, drink, or chemicals. This hunger was the craving built into us by our Creator, positioned there, when He created us in our mother's womb.

This soul hunger can only be satiated by Jesus. Praise His wonderful Name!

Loving Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, give me today my daily Bread, that I may find life in all it’s fullness. Precious Jesus, my Lord and Saviour, fill me and touch me with your presence, so that I can serve you by blessing those around me with your grace. I ask this in your mighty name. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – PURE PRAISE!

Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. - 1 Chronicles 29:11. TNIV

Praise is letting God know we recognise Him for who He is, what He has done, and what He is doing.

But more than informing God of His greatness, majesty and splendour, praise is rejoicing before Him in His magnitude, and recognising that not only is His grace without comparison, His majesty, might, holiness, faithfulness, righteousness, mercy, love, forgiveness and justice, are without comparison. Hallelujah!

Praise is grateful celebration that He is almighty God, and even more importantly, that He is our God.

Loving Father, you are truly worthy of my pure words, pure thoughts, and pure dreams. I worship and submit to you, and I rejoice that you are who you are. I celebrate what you have done, and yet I long for what you are yet to do. You are magnificent, my Father and my God. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus, and because of His matchless love, I praise you. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG - JESUS CAME!

They were all filled with awe and praised God. "A great prophet has appeared among us," they said. "God has come to help his people." - Luke 7:16. TNIV

Jesus came to do the work of God.

Jesus came as the Son of God.

Jesus came to reveal God.

Jesus came and people praised God.

Jesus came so people could see God.

Do you know Jesus?

If you do, do you know him as well as you should?

Loving Father, we thank you for revealing yourself, your love, your grace, and your Salvation in Jesus. We thank you for visiting our world and making us your children. To you, O Lord, belongs all glory and praise. In the mighty, and wonderful name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.

GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG - PURE GRACE!

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. - Ephesians 6:24. TNIV

The book of Ephesians makes some of the greatest declarations in the entire Bible about the grace of God.

This one, however, may be the very richest. Grace is offered to us whether we accept it or not.

Grace is with us in rich abundance and blessing, as we love Jesus and hang on to his love, with a grip of faith that is unwavering.

Loving Father, I do love you, and your Son Jesus with all my heart. Forgive me, when my display of this passion dims, and my communication of His grace to others wanes. By the power of the Holy Spirit, renew in me an unquenchable desire to show my love for Jesus in all that I do, andsay. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – GENEROUS GRACE AND INCREDIBLE LOVE.

Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. Because of what law? The law that requires works? No, because of the "law" that requires faith. For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from observing the law. - Romans 3:27-28. TNIV

God's Salvation leaves us no room for boasting, for we could not live up to the righteous demands of the Law.

When we are broken and sinful, God purchases our salvation by sending Jesus, and allowing Him to pay the debt for our sin.

We have nothing to boast about, except the overwhelmingly generous grace of God, and the incredible sacrificial love of our Saviour, Jesus. Hallelujah! What a Saviour!

Loving Father, I thank you for redeeming me from the righteous judgment of the Law. Thank you, Jesus, for paying the debt for my sins. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for cleansing me and making me holy. Thank you, Lord, for your generous grace and incredible love. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – DON’T BE A STUMBLING BLOCK.

But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do. Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. - 1 Corinthians 8:8-9.

We have incredible liberty under grace.

H owever, our liberty never gives us the right to destroy a weak brother or sister's walk with the Lord. Let's use our liberty caringly, especially toward our new brothers and sisters in Christ.

These new Christians need our encouragement; they already have enough stumbling blocks!

Loving Father, I thank you for your abundant grace. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to be an encouragement, and a good example to new Christians, also to those who are weak in theirfaith. Help me guard my life from being a bad example to others. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – PRAISE GOD FOR THE LAW!

So the law was put in charge of us until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. - Galatians 3:24. TNIV

The book of Galatians reminds us again and again, that law cannot make us righteous or save us, not even the Old Testament Law.

However, the Law does one very important thing, it leads us to Christ. We recognise right and wrong because of the Law. We also recognise our failures, imperfections, sins, transgressions, and weaknesses, because of the Law, but most of all, we recognise our need for a Saviour because of the Law.

Praise God for the Law, and praise God a thousand times more for Jesus!

Loving Father, We thank you that you gave us the law, so that we would recognise that we needed a Saviour. Thank you that you sent your dear son Jesus, so that we could be saved. We praise you Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – DO YOU HAVE FALTERING LIPS?

But Moses said to the LORD, "If the Israelites will not listen to me, why would Pharaoh listen to me, since I speak with faltering lips?" – Exodus 6:12. TNIV

Moses had to be taught the same lesson most of us have to be taught; most people really don't care how we say it, but, they know it is important that we do we say it.

If the truth be known, most of us can't say it very well, anyway. But, when we offer ourselves to the Lord, He truly works through us, and uses us in powerful ways. Moses is the great testimony that God can take a shepherd with uncertain speech and turn him into the supreme leader of his time.

Don't you think, we had better ask what God wants to do with us, and then get on with achieving it?

Loving Father, use me in your service. I recognise that all the gifts, abilities, and experiences that I have, all come from you. All my capabilities are given to me so I can bring glory to you. By the power of the Holy Spirit, enable me to use my abilities for your glory. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
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SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – GET YOURSELF A TATTOO!

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! - 2 Corinthians 5:17. TNIV

“New and Better!” That should be tattooed across the forehead of every Christian!

When we come to Christ, He makes us new and He cleanses us of all our sins. Amazingly, this grace can be “new every morning,” because of God's faithfulness and transforming power. God's grace and power are given to us through his Holy Spirit.

We are new and better, and will continue to be that way until we are completely transformed to be like Jesus!

Loving Father, have your way with my heart, my will, my life, and my time. I want to yield myself to you so that you can make me new and better. I don't want to be satisfied with where you have brought me. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to become more like Jesus today, and each day of my life that follows. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
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SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – GETTING OUR PRIORITIES RIGHT.

What good is it for you to gain the whole world, yet forfeit your soul? - Mark 8:36. TNIV

We run after after so many materialistic things, but only one important thing is really required.

Having a bankbook full of money, a great big house, a fancy flash car, and lots of status, doesn't mean a whole lot if you've gone to your final destination without the Lord. Even worse, is to find that in the middle of your unimportant pursuits, you awake to find yourself in the desolate territory, where Christ does not dwell and life is not found.

Let’s get our souls right, and we will get our priorities right!

Loving Father, help me by the power of the Holy Spirit to get my priorities right, by keeping my life holy, and my heart obedient to your will, rather than being captivated with my own selfishness. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – WE ARE AT WAR!

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. - Ephesians 6:12. TNIV

We are at war! We face a daily battle, and it is not just with sin and temptation.

We have a real enemy whose desire for us is our annihilation. But, our enemy has already been conquered, and his demons stand rebuked.

So, let's keep our spiritual vitality knowing that we're not playing church, but fighting for the Kingdom, for the lost, and for our loved ones.

Lord Jesus, my victorious and conquering King, I praise you for conquering sin, death, and the law for us, for making us righteous and sinless, by your grace. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit, to know that I am on the winning side, and that I can confidently take your gospel, to the lost and to my loved ones. I thank you for this, in your wonderful name I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – WINNING BIG-TIME!

"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. TNIV

This world is a place of struggle. Yes, we can live above the struggle for a short time, or we can find a way to simply ignore, or re-label the struggle for a time, but in the end, the struggle will find us.

However, in the midst of struggle, we can remind ourselves that our victory is secure. Jesus has won! We will share in His great triumph.

In case you don't know, the final result is already determined, and Christians win big-time through Jesus. Hallelujah! Praise His mighty name!

Loving Father, I thank you for giving me the victory, through Jesus Christ my Lord. I welcome the future with eagerness, because I know that each day brings me nearer to you, and the magnificent future you have planned for all of your children. Until then I pray, that through the power of the Holy Spirit, I may never lose sight of that victory, and I long for the day of it’s arrival! In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY

SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – JESUS OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, - Romans 3:21-22.

The Old Testament looks forward to a new time, a time when law is not the basis of righteousness. The Law and Prophets testify to this time. This righteousness comes from God, and is built on the sacrificial work of Jesus who frees us from law, and brings us God's grace.

The real issue for us is trust; many today confuse believing with simply thinking something in one's head, while the Bible sees belief as something that involves our heart, and changes our behaviour.

So what is the basis on which you are building your life today? What is the measure of your righteousness? On what is your security tied? Thank God we can trust our life, our future, and our salvation to Jesus Christ, and not to law-keeping.

Loving Father, thank you so much for providing me with a Saviour in Jesus. Thank you for declaring me righteous through the sacrifice of your Son. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help me as I entrust my life and salvation to Jesus, so that his life and character can be exemplified in the way that I live. In the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Be encouraged.
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SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – KEEP THE CHIN UP!

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. - Romans 12:12.

Sometimes the key to survival is simply a matter of “keeping our chin up,” and going on faithfully trusting that God is there helping us, despite the outward circumstances.

Choosing to be joyful in hope, rather than despair; choosing patience in times of affliction, and choosing faithfulness in prayer, are all decisions that we need to make, whenever troubles arise.

Then we can have confidence that God, who raised Jesus from the dead, can also alter our situations because he hears our prayers.

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, create in me a steadfast heart, so that I might persevere with joy no matter what troubles come up. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged.
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SUNDAY SERMON ON THE BLOG – SAVIOUR AND LORD!

Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. - Matthew 7:13-14.

The world wants a Saviour but not a Lord. The New Testament is clear; a Saviour who is not Lord is no Saviour, and no friend.

If the Old Testament showed us anything, it is that God's seemingly peculiar laws were written not for His enthrallment, but for His people's perpetuation.

Let us not only call Jesus Lord this week, but let us live in a way that shows that He controls our lives, and His Spirit produces our character.

Loving Father, take control of my life and my will so I may be wholly yours, not just in word, but in thought and in deed as well. I ask this in the wonderful and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Be encouraged.
GBYAY