What Account Will You Give Jesus? What Will His Response Be?

"Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones."  Luke 16:10

We have the opportunity ever day to be a good steward with the things the Lord has given us. Whether we have been given little or much, it is what we do with it that matters to the Lord.

Are we good stewards with our time, money, families, relationships, homes and jobs?

Are we seizing every opportunity we have to share Christ with others, to help those in need, to spend time in prayer and the Word with our family, and to deepen our relationship with Christ?

In the book of Matthew Jesus shares the parable of the Loaned money. (Matthew 25:14-30) The Master gave three servants bags of gold according to their abilities. 

Servant number 1 received 5 bags of gold.

Servant number 2 received 2 bags of gold.

Servant number 3 received 1 bag of gold.

Servant number 1 invested his money and it doubled. 

Servant number 2 also went right to work and doubled his money. 

Servant number 3 dug a hole and buried it. 

When the Master returned each servant was to give an account for how they used their money. 

Servant number 1- “Sir, you gave me five bags of gold to invest, and I have doubled the amount. The Master was full of praise. Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!" Matthew 25:20-21

Servant number 2- "Sir, you gave me two bags of gold to invest, and I have doubled the amount. The Master said, well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!" Matthew 25:22-23

Servant number 3- "Sir, I know you are a hard man, harvesting crops you didn't plant and gathering crops you didn't cultivate. i was afraid I would lose your money, so I hid it in the earth and here it is. The Master replied, You wicked and lazy servant! You think I'm a hard man, do you, harvesting crops I didn't plant and gathering crops I didn't cultivate? Well, you should at least have put my money into the bank so I could have some interest. Take the money from this servant and give it to the one with the ten bags of gold. To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who are unfaithful, even what little they have will be taken away. Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." Matthew 25:26-30

Are we using every opportunity to use well what Christ has given us, or are we hoarding it and hiding it?

Let's use this day to become better stewards in every area of our lives. When we seize the opportunity now we will accumulate more later.

Jesus we long to hear the words, well done, my good and faithful servant. Teach us to be the best stewards we can be for You and Your Kingdom. Amen

Altar Sunday

"Meanwhile, the fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must never go out. Each morning the priest will add fresh wood to the fire and arrange the daily whole burnt offering on it. He must then burn the fat of the peace offerings on top of this daily whole burnt offering. Remember, the fire must be kept burning on the altar at all times. It must never go out." Leviticus 6: 12-13

Is the fire that Christ started in you still burning? Are you adding fresh wood (God's Word) to the altar daily. 

Making the Most of Our Time

"Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom." Psalm 90:12

Would it be possible to stop planning our own time frames and instead allow the Lord to plan them? I mean He is the Creator of all things, including time.

If our desire is to grow in wisdom, then we need to ask the Lord to help us make the most of the time we are given. 

Time is so fragile in the first place, and as children of the Lord, we need to be using our time to invest in His Kingdom. 

I can tell you from experience, that once you begin asking the Lord to help you manage Your time, He will show you areas that have been spent more on your Miss or Mr. "ME's" then on Him. He might even reveal to you that your children should not be in every sport, especially if they take time away from Him. 

He might even show you that sitting in front of the TV or computer robs you of blessings. So what would happen if we spent that time with Him in His Word and with others? How much closer would our relationship with Christ grow? How much more would we grow in wisdom?

He might also show us that we spend more time investing in our careers when we should and could be investing in Him and His Kingdom.

If we want to become better stewards of our time, we need to ask the Lord to teach us and show us how to make the most of the time HE has given us.

Jesus teach me to make the most of my time so that I may grow in wisdom. Forgive me for being a poor steward with the precious time You have given me. Amen

God Forbid that We Should Boast

"As for me,God forbid that I should boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world died long ago, and the world's interest in me is also long dead." Galatians 6:14

Has our interest in the World died because of the Cross?

Have we lost the depth and meaning of the Cross today?

What does the Cross mean to you? When you think about the Cross, do you think about the extension of Christ hanging on it, bearing the weight of the world's sin?

Do you boast about the Cross or do you boast about your worldly accomplishments? God forbid that we should boast about anything except the Cross of Jesus Christ.

Could this passage describe us as a Body, oh that it would, for then Christ would be displayed more and more and we would be displayed less and less.

Jesus bring us back to the true meaning of the Cross. We want our interest in this world to die because of  what You did on the Cross. Keep us from boasting about anything except the cross. Amen

EFFORT

"In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge."  2 Peter 1:5

In my search for wisdom and knowledge I was reminded that it all takes a lot of effort. When I heard the Lord say effort I became stuck on that word.

How much effort am I putting into my relationship with Jesus and others? Again, Miss "ME" pops up and says, “put effort into me."

                                       

This time I was able to laugh at her, because she is crazy. I knew what the Lord was telling me. Searching for more of Him requires EFFORT! 

It requires more than a quick reading. It requires more than 5 minutes of prayer. It requires more listening and less talking. It requires more than just Sunday attendance. 

It requires dedication, follow-through, focus, investment, and desire. It requires less attention on me and more attention on Christ and His Word. It requires obedience.

Effort is required in everything; Jesus has reminded me of that lately.

Jesus speaks of effort in the book of Matthew.

“Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks.” Matthew 7:7-8

I am learning the difference between human effort, and effort done in the Spirit. For example, love. When I try to love in human effort, I come up way short every time. I even become worn out, grumpy, and fickle.

Yes love takes effort, but when done with the help of the Holy Spirit…so much easier.

I am learning to put a lot more effort into my relationship with Christ and that effort is worth it.

Do you have some areas that need more of your effort? Maybe your relationship with Christ, your prayer life, your marriage, friendships, maybe Christ has called you to lead out in an area of the Church or Bible Study and He is asking you to put more effort in it for Him.

Whatever it may be, Jesus is worth our best effort and He will help us. He knows we can’t do it on our own.

Jesus forgive me for my lack of effort in the things that are most important and especially for trying to do things in my own human effort. I am unable to do anything without You. Help me as I focus on this area You have called me to work on. Amen

                                                                                                                                              

I WANT IT!

"For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will fill you with joy." Proverbs 2:10


 I want both of these things, wisdom that enters my heart, and knowledge that fills me with joy.

I want them desperately, so I will search and search. I will cry out for understanding. I will trust in the promises of His Word.

I want Jesus to ooze out of my pores. I want my heart to be flooded with so much wisdom that joy is the only thing I know, no matter what the world throws at me.

Anyone want to join me? If so let's start searching deeper into God's Word together.

Jesus fill my heart with wisdom and joy. I long for it, I long for more of You. Amen

ONE

“We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12:5

It's this huge urge I have to tell you how much I love you. I can't explain to you how much you mean to me. Each of you have stolen a piece of my heart. Whether I know you or not you have a part of me with you.

This amazing body that I am a part of is the greatest. I love seeing the new additions being added. They bring so much joy to the Body. 

With each new addition, Christ places them in their respected place and the flow of His blood begins. 

I LOVE IT! I remember when I joined the Body, I was so excited, although it took me a little bit to understand my role, I have been addicted and devoted to it ever since. 

NOW!

Here is my prayer. I pray that the Body of Christ will begin to be more united as ONE. There is only ONE God and only ONE Body. 

I pray we will stop trying to be independent on our own. Christ has called us to work together for Him and for His good. We need to do more of that.

It often seems as though there are many body parts flopping around trying to function on their own.

We have taken God's Word, turned around to be what we believe, thus creating division between the Body.

How can we ever stand if we can't even unite together and work as ONE?

Yes the Body is made up of many different parts, but if those parts are acting independently of the Body, then the Body cannot function as Christ intends for it to.

Each part is of great importance and must work together. 

I have three questions for you to think about.

1. Are you a part of the Body?

2. Are you doing your part?

3. Are you working together or independently?

Jesus our opinions and interpretations have caused division within the Body. Forgive us for trying to work independently of one another instead of together like You called us to do. Amen

What Keeps You?

“I have not kept the good news of your justice hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone in the great assembly of your unfailing love and faithfulness.” Psalm 40:10

What keeps you from sharing the Word of God? Would it be fear, lack of knowledge, lack of desire, or maybe lack of thought in doing so?

How equipped should one be in sharing the Word of God? Maybe that depends on the call Christ has placed on each of us. I believe those who are called to Preach, will be equipped by the Lord, but should also spend time equipping themselves in the Word as well.

In the book of James, he says, "Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness." James 3:1

I believe those who are called to teach, will be equipped by the Lord, but should also spend time equipping themselves in the Word. Teaching requires obedience, self-denial, preparation, faithfulness, and meditation in the Word.

We should never rely on our human effort, which can be faulty to many.

All of us, who are in Christ, are called to share the Good News. We are not to depend on our Pastors and Teachers to do it alone. Yes, the calling is different for us all, that is what makes the Body of Christ so awesome, unique, and special. But as that Body we are all to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.

When sharing with others the greatness of Jesus, we must believe He will equip us and give us the words. 

But we need to be spending adequate time in the Word and in prayer, so that Christ can equip us to do His work.

When our passion and love for Christ is strong, sharing Him with as many as we can will be something that we can't wait to do.

Jesus may we not hoard You or Your Word. May we shout the Good News from our housetops! You are worth it! Amen

Altar Sunday

I hope today as you approach the altar of the Lord, you will receive a new passion for Him that will carry-out into your everyday life.

The Measure of Love, Weighed by Obedience

"Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart." Psalm 119:34


Have you ever realized that maybe you are not as obedient to the Lord and His Word as you should be? Could this be a daily struggle for us or could it be purely by choice?

We have to be very mindful in our obedience to the Lord. Obedience doesn't come naturally, it comes from our love for Jesus and our desire to please and honor Him. 

Could we measure our love for Jesus by how obedient we are to His ENTIRE Word?

How much love would be weighed out?

Our desire to be obedient must be more than a desire, it must be an action. 

Obedience is not something that can be done in our own human flesh. It must be aided by the Holy Spirit.

I could be totally off, brethren but I believe the first place to start being obedient is in the Word of God. Because from there, we will learn every other area we are to obedient in. 

Also, we need to remember obedience is a command and not an option. God requires us to be obedient in EVERY area and not just the ones we want to be obedient in. 

If we struggle to be obedient in reading and spending time in the Word, then more than likely we lack obedience in a whole lot of other areas as well.

"If you love me, you will obey what I command." John 14:15

Jesus forgive us for picking and choosing the things we want to obey and the things we don't. Help us to be more mindful. Amen

It's Time to Get Digging

"Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God." Proverbs 2:2-5

How do you take this particular passage and apply it to your life? What exactly does Solomon mean when he says, "Tune your ears to wisdom?" 

Could it be he is saying tune your ears to the Word and voice of God by removing any and all noise that is drowning out His voice? Then once they are in tune with Him, listen as He speaks.

Then after you have tuned your ears to His voice alone, concentrate solely on understanding what Wisdom (Jesus) is saying. In other words focus on every word Wisdom speaks.

To make sure you get the importance of all this, Solomon goes on to say. Cry out for insight, like a baby cries out for milk. Then ask for understanding, because you can't fully understand on your own. You have to have the help of the Holy Spirit.

Solomon then goes on to say, if you are really serious, which you should be, then you need to go beyond the tuning in and the asking. You need to search for insight and understanding like you would silver, actually seek for them like you would for a lost treasure. 

Because once you find that treasure, that rare and precious treasure, and you open it up, you will then gain understanding of what it means to fear the Lord. Plus you will gain a deeper knowledge of God. That type of treasure is priceless.

And I want it. I want to grab my shovel and the map of God's Word and search for more and more of His hidden treasure every day.

It's time to get digging; there is a lot of buried treasure waiting to be claimed.

Jesus thank You for giving us every tool we need to search and find the treasures that lie in Your Word. No matter how deep the treasure lies, we will dig and dig, because we know once it is found a new discovery of You is made. Amen

He Answers

"I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me" Psalm 120:1

Merciful Lord we need You. We need You to intervene in our marriages, our jobs and our relationships. We need Your comfort, Your protection, Your healing.

Jesus we are desperate for You.

Open our ears to hear as You answer. Open our eyes to see Your presence. We so often feel as though You are absent in the midst of our anguish and suffering, but You aren't. You are present at all times.

Thank You for never leaving our side. Turn our eyes and ears towards You. We want to hear from You Jesus. Amen

Simple Question. Simple Challenge

How would you describe Christians today?

Now find someone who isn't a believer and ask them.

Do we need to do some re-evaluating of the Church body and even ourselves, or are we being a reflection of a true CHRISTian?

Jesus help us to be a living example and reflection of You. Remind us that when we become a Christian we are taking Your name upon us. And it is that name, Your name we are to reflect and represent. Amen

Fear or Fool

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." Proverbs 1:7


Where do you fit in, in this passage? Do you fear the Lord or are you a fool who despises wisdom and discipline?


Do you know the type of fear He is referring to? It is not the run and hide fear, but fear that results in honor and respect, that is the beginning of knowledge.


It is the fear that leaves you in awe of His power and majesty that leads to knowledge.


Do you honor and respect the Lord for His power and holiness or do you despise the wisdom and discipline He offers?


Jesus help us to fear You more. Amen

Expectations

"The hopes of the godly results in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked are all in vain." Proverbs 10:28

It's this thing called "expectation" that can set your heart up for failure. It can even rob you of your joy.

We "expect" things in our jobs, marriages, friendships, relationships, homes, even with our children. What about our "expectation" when it comes to Jesus.

Do we "expect" something from the Lord? Do we "expect" Him to give us things, to get us "out" of things, to heal us? 

What is it that we "expect"?

Do we even know what "expect" means?  Better yet, do we even know what we expect?

It means to regard (something) as likely to happen or to regard (someone) as likely to do or be something.

The Bible's definition-to consider probable or certain; hope; assurance

Is it right or wrong to expect? It depends.

James describes it best. “If you need wisdom-if you want to know what God wants you to do-ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can’t make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.”  James 1:5-8

When we expect selfish things-Wrong

When we expect the Lord’s will-Right

When we expect with a doubtful heart-Wrong

When we expect with a trusting heart-Right

How often are our expectation of people, things, and the Lord selfish?

Do our expectations align with Christ’s expectations?

Jesus examine my expectations, test them under Your search light. Reveal to me any selfishness that is within them.  Align my expectations with Yours. In Jesus name amen

Altar Sunday

Today is not just another day. Today the tomb is empty and Christ has risen! He is alive! That's worth flooding the altar for.

What have you done for Him?

Whether you wait for holidays to attend Church or you go everyday. Just know that Jesus invests in you at all times. Not a second passes in your life that He does not know about.

His love for you extends way beyond what you could ever fathom.

He laid His life down for you! He took your sins upon Himself.

He overcame death for you!

What have you done for Him?

The Great Commission

"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20

How do you celebrate the weekend Christ arose?

Do you go and share this wonderful story with as many as you can?

Jesus' last words to His disciples was the Great Commission. He commanded them to go and spread the Good News. We are commanded to the same thing.

This weekend is a great time to start spreading the Good News.

Jesus is alive!

Hope Beyond the Grave

The open wounds in His skin

His disfigured face and swollen eyes

The weakness in His body

The thorns in His head

The nails that pierce His hands and feet

The blood that flows...

The men, they laugh, spit, mock, and thrust Him upward as though it was every day business. They have not a clue.

We have not a clue.

The pain He endures as He hangs there.

The blood that flows...

The separation

 His final hour approaches, as the skies begin to darken, and the clouds roll in, bringing heavy winds.

And He knows...

This pain, suffering, and weight of every sin have been placed upon Him.

And He mutters, "It is finished!"

His last breath is taken.

The earth shakes, the curtain tears in two. His side is punctured...

And the blood flows.

Wrapped in white linen He was placed in a tomb

 But on the third day...

He was raised from the dead.

"After three days I will be raised from the dead."  Matthew 27:63

All for you and all for me!

"For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. How we thank God, who gives us victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ our Lord!" 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

It's more than bunnies and eggs.

"Because God's children are human beings-made of flesh and blood-Jesus also became flesh and blood by being born in human form. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the Devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he deliver those who have lived all their lives as slaves to the fear of dying."  Hebrews 2:14-15

It's more than bunny rabbits and Easter eggs. It's more than putting on your best dress and heading to church.

It's about Him and what He did.

Do you know what He did? Do your children know?

Do you know why He did it?

Take a peek in the mirror; do you see that person staring back at you? That's who He did it for.

You and Me!

He died, was buried, and ROSE AGAIN!

That is what Jesus did.

Life Everlasting! Love Everlasting!

Now and forever.

Thank You Jesus for Your Death, Burial, and Resurrection. Thank You that You did all for us, for me. May we teach our children what this time of year is really about. Forgive us for making it something it is not. Amen

Conscious Effort

“I called you so often, but you didn't come. I reached out to you, but you paid no attention. You ignored my advice and rejected the correction I offered.” Proverbs 1:24

This thought of not spending time with Jesus freaks me out! Yet so does the thought of spending time with Him out of habit or because I should, rather than because I desire to, need to, want to, have to.

Have you ever been in a conversation with someone yet you weren't really "in" the conversation. Meaning they were talking and you acted like you were listening but your mind was somewhere else. Then when they stop and look at you waiting for a response, you don't know what to say because you have no clue what they just said.

Have you ever done that? 

How often do we do that with the Lord? We get in the Word, yet our minds are elsewhere. Or we attend church and the whole time we are thinking about other things rather than the message Christ is speaking to us.

This bothers me a great deal. Jesus has said many times that you are to love ME with all of your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

How can I be giving Him all of myself, if I am distracted in my thought life?

This should sadden us more. It should move us to be in prayer more. It should motivate us to store His Word more.

It should cause us to be a lot more conscientious when we are spending time with Him.  Jesus has something to say to us, teach us, and show us. He wants to draw us closer to His holiness every day. He wants to share His heart with us.

Why would we want to miss out on that?

This bothers me that I have missed out on really listening to what my Father has to say and share, because my thoughts are elsewhere.

I can’t draw closer to Him, if I am not listening and engaging in our conversation. And if I don’t listen how can I obey Him and become more like Him.

These two they really do go hand in hand.

“My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. “Proverbs 2:1-2

Conscious effort that is what is required.

Jesus forgive me for not being fully engaged in the time we spend together. You deserve better, and I want better, for the both of us. Amen

He never tires out or sleeps

"He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never tires and never sleeps. The LORD himself watches over you!" Psalm 121:3-5


Isn't it reassuring to know that the Lord never tires out or sleeps?

When you feel weary and tired, be assured that Jesus is not. So when you close your eyes to rest, know that Jesus is watching over you.

Thank You Jesus for watching over us and for never growing tired. It is so encouraging to know that You are watching over us at all times. Thank You! Amen

Altar Sunday

When you realize coming to the altar doesn't just mean the church altar. Nor do you have to wait for Sunday.

God's altar is available everyday all day.

Are you using it?

The Constant One

"Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Bible studies, babies, sickness, conferences, packing, moving, goodbyes, family, friends, last minute details, jitters, and staying on my face. These are all the things that have taken place within a two week period. 

To say the least, things have been a little overwhelming around the Morgan household. But can I just tell you the one thing that has been constant?

JESUS!

How in the world do people do it without Him? How in the world can anyone go through an entire day without Him?

Brethren I cannot breathe, function, or think without Jesus. He has been the only constant thing in my life. No matter how many changes occur in this life, I am always guaranteed one thing-Jesus will always be there.

Have you ever just needed something so badly, like a drink, food, rest, warmth or breath that you would die without it? That is how much I need Jesus on a second by second basis.

What about you? Has life been a little hectic for you lately? If so, may I encourage you today by telling you, Jesus is present, available, and will always be constant within you?

Jesus thank You for never leaving me. Thank You for being the most constant, sure thing in my life. I honestly could not do this without You, nor would I want to. Thank You. I trust You, I find comfort in You, and I praise You for Your continual presence in my life. Amen

Preparation

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Give these instructions to the people of Israel: The offerings you present to me by fire on the altar are my food, and they are very pleasing to me. See to it that they are brought at the appointed times and offered according to my instructions." Numbers 28:1-2

How do you prepare your heart for worship?

How do you prepare yourself to spend time with Jesus?

Do you prepare or just jump in? Is there a right or wrong way?

Can you come before the Lord if you are harboring sin?

Is confessing a part of your preparation?

"If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, my Lord would not have listened." Psalm 66:18

Just maybe the days leading up to Sunday are our days to prepare our hearts for worship. What kind of offering are you presenting to the Lord?

Women's Conference

"If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

This Friday March 30 and Saturday March 31 we will be holding our Women's Conference at First Baptist Jasper.

The Focus will be on Overcoming the "ME"

We have spent many months preparing and praying. Our biggest prayer is that God will show up in a HUGE way and change our hearts, thoughts and lives.

Please be in prayer if you will. We are expecting big things from Jesus!

It begins Friday @ 6:30. You can register at the door. It is 15 dollars and aide is available. It is our honor so don't hesitate to let us know.

For more information please contact Sue Gee at thegees@joshua2415.org or by phone at 409-489-6485.

We look forward to worshiping with you.

Altar Sunday

Maybe today you know of someone who could use some time at the altar. Maybe they are unable to go themselves, or stay back due to fear. Maybe they have no clue about the altar.

Whatever the reason might be, today you are able to go to the altar for them. Would you do that? Would you intercede in prayer for someone who needs it?

"Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere." Ephesians 6:18

Overwhelming

Because you are loved. 

Not for any other reason than because He knows the best for you comes at a cost.

His cost.

His love is overwhelming.

All

"From there you will search again for the LORD your God. And if you search for him with all your heart and soul, you will find him."  Deuteronomy 4:29

Have you ever done something with half of your heart, attention, effort, and thought? How did it turn out? Probably not as good as it would’ve if you had put your “all” into it.

Maybe we fill our plates to full. We believe that if we finish it that is good enough, but is it really good enough?

What about your relationship with Jesus? Do you give Him half of your attention, heart, thoughts, and effort? When you go to Church do you sit and think about a million other things, rather than give God all of your attention? When you sing are you singing with “all” your heart or out of habit? It is easy to move our mouths and our thoughts be somewhere else.

What about when we spend time in the Word? Do we do it with other things going on around us that steal our attention? Like our phones, TV, our kids, our job, etc. Or do we give God “all” of our attention and go to a quiet place where there are no distractions; thus giving Him “all” of our attention, heart, thoughts, and effort?

Notice in our passage God says, “If you search for Me with ALL your heart and soul you will find Me.”

Have you been in search for more of Jesus? If so check and see if your “all” has been into it.

Jesus You gave us all of you; forgive us for only giving you bits and pieces. It’s time we get serious in our search for You, and in doing so our all must be put into it. Amen

What is Your Agenda

"I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare. All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ." Philippians 2:20-21

Do you search God's Word with a self-agenda? Often times many of us will open the Word searching for the right passage that applies to our agenda.

It might be the only time we ever open our Bibles. Which is sad, but is probably done more than we realize.

I am not saying this is wrong by any means, but when it is done for selfish reasons, then, yes, I believe that is wrong. It just makes me feel like we "use" God. I don't ever want Him to feel used. I want Him to feel as loved as He makes me feel loved. Which I know is humanly impossible.

If we are just using Jesus to make ourselves look better, then our hearts are not where they should be. Our relationship with Christ is not where it should be.

If we search with self-agenda we are leading ourselves astray, because we are only taking bits and pieces of God's Word instead of as a whole.

The Holy Spirit guides each of us differently. He also lets us know when our motives in searching God's Word is for His glory or for our selfish gain.

Why do we have a relationship with Christ is the real question.

Why do you study or not study His Word?

Are we taking God's Word as a whole or in parts as we see fit, and as they apply to our wants?

Jesus show us very specifically our reasons for doing what we do when we study Your Word. Reveal to us every intention. Amen

Trust

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Jesus never said following Him would be easy. In fact He gave a huge warning that it would be hard! He never said standing for Him would be easy. He never said it would be fun. Nor did He say that when His light exposed the darkness that it would be awesome. It’s actually hard.

But He did promise to be there with us. He promised He would never leave. He promised He would lead us through it ALL.

We so desperately want to understand His decisions, but it is not for us to understand. All we are to do is trust Him.

Jesus we trust You and every decision You make. You are God, Creator of all things. You make this earth spin. You make our hearts beat and mouths move. You tell the Sun when to rise and when to fall. You know every star, every hair on our heads, every thought we have and every fear we have. You know us completely and fully. Thank You for walking through this daily life with us. We trust You and that is the best thing we can do. Amen

Are You Dead or Producing Fruit?

 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-24

Picture this with me. A fruit producing tree, except the fruit growing is not fruit you eat. It is a kind of fruit you live out, act out. It is a variety fruit tree; there is fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Imagine being able to go up to that tree and pick each one of those fruits.                                                

                                                                                           

Would you pick certain ones or would you pick all of them? Here is the deal. You don’t have a choice if the Holy Spirit lives within you. If He doesn't live within you, well, then this fruit is completely foreign to you.

So let me ask you this…

Are these fruits visible in your life?

Is Jesus Lord of your life?

If so then you are a part of Christ’s fruit producing tree, which means the Holy Spirit is producing all 9 types of fruit in you.

He is the one that makes them visible; He is the one in control.

“But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us.” Galatians 5:22

Christ says, “I will produce this fruit in you?”

Love

JOY

PEACE

PATIENCE

KINDNESS

GOODNESS

GENTLENESS

FAITHFULNESS

SELF-CONTROL

So where do you go from here? Begin by understanding you canNOT produce these fruits on your own. It is not in your makeup to do so. But it is in Christ’s makeup.

So the more you become like Him, the more of these fruits you will produce.

Maybe a good evaluation for us is to see what things we produce more.

Evil or Fruit

I know what you are thinking. I don’t produce evil. I think it too, but the more you see what Christ defines as evil the more your eyes are open and the more you realize just how much evil you do, have, or had produced.

Things that are evil-

Sexual immorality

Impure thoughts

Eagerness for lustful pleasure

Idolatry

Participation in demonic activity

Hostility

Quarreling

Jealousy

Outbursts of anger

Selfish Ambition

Divisions

The feeling everyone is wrong except those in your own little group

Envy

Drunkenness

Wild parties

Go back and place a check by the ones that have been produced in you. Stinks I know!

So what does a tree look like that produces these things?

A dead one!

Are you dead or producing fruit?

New Night

Women Seeking God-Community Women's Bible Study

is moving to a new night.

Monday


Place: Belle Jim


Time: 6:00-7:00

Altar Sunday

Won't you come to the altar today. He is calling you. Can you hear Him? He wants to tend to the brokenness. He wants to remove the dirt. He wants to be showered with praise.

Today is the day. Step out and go.

Jesus is there. Don't keep Him waiting. It will be the best thing you have ever done.

Remember

When it seems impossible just remember, He is the possible.

When you feel like you are broken in pieces, remember you are whole in Him.

When you feel like giving up, remember He went all the way to the Cross.

When you feel distant and alone, remember He is right beside you. Actually, He is within you.

When you look at someone and wonder why, remember God made them too.



"They remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer." Psalm 78:35

To Be Searched

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24

To be cleansed is to be searched. To be searched is to be purified. To be purified is to be made whole.

Isn't that what you desire? His wholeness.

One year ago the most precious woman came into our lives. She has a heart for children bigger than Texas. And for those of you who know her would agree.

She has taken Dax in as though he was her own and Dax has fallen in love with her. There have been times when Dax feels bad that he will ask for her. At first that was hard for this mommy, but now it is totally okay. Because she is AMAZING.

Tonight this precious woman, known as Mrs. Parker to many and Dorothy to others needs our prayers.

Her husband has been placed in ICU due to his heart. This has been a long road for them and this, though expected came quicker than any of us wanted it to.

So tonight because I know many of you who follow Godly Gossip love Jesus and will begin to pray for her and her family. I wanted to share and ask you to begin praying. They have two boys so pray for them as they walk through this with Dorothy.

We are believing in Jesus and His power to heal. So pray and pray continually. Please!

I will update you as Dorothy updates me. I know Dorothy and the boys will appreciate all the prayers.

Dorothy and boys, as Dax says, "I love you so much." we do. All one thousand of us that you have blessed with your love.

Jesus thank You for this amazing family who blesses so many people. We love them so much. Be with Bubba, give him the strength to fight. Take hold of his heart and heal it completely and fully. Jesus You are the Creator and we are asking You to go beyond what we could ever imagine. Give them comfort. Wrap Your arms around Dorothy and the boys so tightly they feel Your presence. In Jesus name amen

He Listens

I love God because he listened to me, listened as I begged for mercy. He listened so intently as I laid out my case before him. Death stared me in the face, hell was hard on my heels. Up against it, I didn't know which way to turn; then I called out to God for help: "Please, God!" I cried out. "Save my life!" God is gracious—it is he who makes things right, our most compassionate God. God takes the side of the helpless; when I was at the end of my rope, he saved me. Psalm 116:1-6



Did you know Jesus hears you and He actually cares about what you have to say? He loves to visit with you. He never interrupts (well sometimes)and He never assumes you are saying one thing when you really mean something else. He knows exactly what you are saying and why you are saying it.

He is patient and understanding, and compassionate in His responses. Even if no one else gets you, He does.

He wants the best for you and He knows your heart. He knows your desire. He knows your fears. He knows your frustrations. He knows you!

That my brethren is an amazing thought.

So no matter what situation you are in, rest in the fact that God knows you, listens to you, understands you, gets you, and is with you.

It is about Him from start to finish so make sure He is included in every conversation, decision, and most of all make sure you listen to Him when He speaks.

Don't let man take His place. Seek Jesus first! Trust in His plans for you, and make sure you consult Him. He will listen, even when others won't.

Jesus thank You that You hear us, love us, and know everything about us. I trust You and praise You for I know You will reveal Your plans for us. Keep us from seeking man first and don't let us get ahead of You! Amen

I Need...

"He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need there is." Acts 17:25

How often do you utter the words "I need"? Probably more than you realize. What things follow those two words?

I need a break

I need more money

I need to lose weight

I need a new car

I need new clothes

I need...

The problem with our "I needs" is the fact that they are worldly things, which we do not need.

For those of us in Christ we have Our real needs satisfied.

Our need to breathe

Our need to think

Our need to understand

Our need to function

Our need to move

Our need to be cared for

Our need to be loved

Our need to...

They are met because of Christ. Isn't it comforting to know that Christ satisfies every need there is?

Maybe you have a need today, if so let Christ meet that need. For there is NO one better than the Creator Himself.

Praise God today for meeting your needs the ones you know of and the ones He meets that you are not even aware of.

Jesus thank You for satisfying every need there is. We take this gift for granted. We even fail to realize just how much You do meet our needs. Thank You. Forgive us for thinking we need things of this world. You are all we need. Remind us of that. Amen

When Emptied of Me Love is Found

Could this be our day's desire?

To again empty me.

What meaning does this have

To empty me?

To be stripped of

self and pride.

To remove the

desires of our flesh.

To throw away

the old and put on the new.

Oh, to empty me

Is to empty the world within me.

Could this be our desire today

To empty out all that clings to the me?

For Paul says it best,

when he says the emptied me 

is love in the simplest form.

"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud, or rude. 

Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

When emptied of me

love is found!

Altar Sunday

I approach the altar today, asking You, to empty me of me.

Empty me of selfishness, vain ambition, and the poison of my pride.

Empty me of any foolish thing my heart holds onto.

Empty me so I can be filled with more of You.

I will not move until the Holy Fire has burned away all that is not of You.

Empty me, so I can be like You.

Here on the altar empty me of all the disease.

Let me stay Father for You are all I need.

Here on the altar, I will leave it, all of me, in order to take all of You.

Jesus only You can empty me of me. So I am asking, here on my knees, empty me of me.

Less

It is the acceptance of the mess you are, and the simplicity of His Grace. That is what makes Him special, unique...God. His ability to make sense of your mess.

It really is okay to desire Jesus,  yet feel as though you don't desire Him enough. That is what keeps you searching for Him. It is what makes Him even more desirable, His ability to draw you in, close and sure.

It is okay to be less and be made less. Yet it is another thing to live in the state of less. Because the act of making ME really me, requires letting go.

And to let go, means losing control, and losing control means stepping back, stepping down. And to step back and step down means swallowing your pride.

And who can swallow their pride like Christ swallowed His. "..He did not demand and cling to his rights as God. He made himself nothing; he took the HUMBLE position of a slave and appeared in human form. And in human form he obediently humbled himself even further by dying a criminal's death on the a cross." Philippians 2:6-8


Only the one who knows that Christ must become GREATER AND GREATER and they must become less and less.


Jesus I want to become less and less so You can become GREATER and GREATER. May I no longer feed myself, but feed the Spirit. Amen

We Don't Know

"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

We don't know what life is, until we live it IN Christ.

We don't know what true joy is, until we live IN the joy of Christ.

We don't know the quality of our fruit, until Christ IS the producer of our fruit.

We don't know the meaning of forgiveness, until we have witnessed the Cross.

We don't know the power of the Word, until we have been transformed by the Word.

We don't know His suffering, until we have shared in His suffering.

We don't know what love is, until we see it through His blood.

We don't know who we are, until we know whose we are.

We don't know our purpose, until we know the reason for our existence.

We don't know how to give, until we know what Christ has given us.

We don't know how to die, until we have died to ourselves.

We don't know the power of the cross, until we carry our own cross.

To be filled with Christ, is to be empty of self.


Jesus apart from You we know nothing, can do nothing, and have nothing. May we remain in You. Amen

Be Alert and Pray

"Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you. For though the spirit is willing enough, the body is weak." Matthew 26:41


Alert-The state of being watchful for possible danger.
       - Quick to notice any unusual and potentially dangerous or difficult circumstances.

In our world today, temptation is on every corner. It is in our homes, schools, work places, convenient stores, streets, etc.

If we don't stay alert and in constant prayer, we can be easily tempted, deceived, and eventually give into it.

Go back and look at the list of places we can be tempted. How have they tempted you? Did you give into that temptation? Was it an obvious temptation, or did it sneak up on you in subtle way?

Stay alert and prayerful brethren, at all times, in all places, and for all other brothers and sisters around the world who are being tempted with the same thing.

Be aware of the enemy. Don't let him catch you off guard.

Jesus help us to stay alert and in prayer, for then we will not be caught off guard, but prepared for whatever temptation comes our way. Thank You for the help of the Holy Spirit in warning us and letting us know when we are in danger. You are awesome Father, and You set the best example for us in overcoming temptation. Thank You. Amen