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