Hearing our older kids reminisce, sometimes leads to some eye opening news to us as parents.
This story reminds me of one incident my daughter recalls. She said "my mom is the only one I know who can make a full meal when the cabinets are empty. Now not literally of course, but she remembered when our cabinets and refrigerator had plenty of food, but to her it looked like there wasn't much there (think maybe because it wasn't what "she wanted)?
 
Just like this story, Jesus blesses in abundant ways. We can all recall times when, whether it was food or something else, Jesus provided. I think our message this week is such a precious reminder that He is still doing that today. The problem; however, we forget to ask him for provision.
 
Life in general, is reason for us to forget to lean in to Him for what we need. We all have issues that distract us from the One and only One who can help us, whether it be food for our next meal, work, family issues etc.
 
Let us remember how Jesus provided with the five loaves and two fish and remember that our Jesus is the same today as he was in their day. If He did it for them, He can, and will do it for us. Hebrews 13:8

Oh, by the way we had leftovers at our house too.

Our job??? Trust and leave it with Him.

Be My Guest

Permission to get personal? Do we live a “welcoming life?” Christ followers say we want to emulate Jesus, yet we routinely defer on one of the most crucial signatures of his ministry…hospitality! Our Savior never showcased a Pinterest-laden expansive home. Grandiose catering spreads with signature charcuterie boards were not required for His hosting efforts either. Instead, Christ chose a welcoming lifestyle ready to bless, serve, and encourage throughout his daily walk. Simple and prescriptive, yet profound! Do we?

My mother taught home economics many years. Obviously, it’s not genetic.  I don’t can goods, make jelly, or hem. I have been known to staple pants that were too long on me! And, I happen to think store-bought salsa works quite well for a Tex/Mex meal. No judging. I did retain that the chilled fork goes with the salad and not to butter the entire roll, just the bite I was eating! (Who knew that was a thing?) Yet, I love and enjoy being around folks minus all the pressures of etiquette grading. I promise not to freeze your fork if you will rave over “my” salsa!  

Observation. People are lonely! Allow these stats to motivate a shift in your scheduling. “One in four Americans rarely or never feel as though people understand them. Two in five Americans feel that their relationships are not meaningful and they are isolated. One in five report they rarely feel close to people they can talk to.” (“Understanding the Loneliness Epidemic” by Theresa Borachard) Could we put down our “devices” long enough to SEE hurting people? Check your screen time. Better yet WWJD? He didn’t run programs or put on events. He gathered at tables.

All too often, we wrongly assign hospitality to others. THEY have the large abode, the bigger income to cover the expenses, or they simply aren’t as busy as we are. May I remind us? Hospitality is a command not a suggestion. You can’t biblically opt out. When you start to link hospitality with extroverts, pay checks, and clean homes, you are deceived. It’s the WHY not the WHAT that makes it ministry. Hear me out. Hospitality requires vulnerability and courage, but the payout is connection, not perfection. I have heard it said that hospitality is making your guests feel at home, even if you wish they were. I believe the bar can be a bit higher and for eternal reasons.

God has given each of us a hospitality heartbeat ("Your Hospitality Personality" by Morgan Tyree). These personalities include extroverts, introverts, and ambiverts. Some are task-oriented while others are people-oriented, but ALL are forms of serving others and glorifying the Father. Just to be clear, if Jesus devoted time for it…is it optional for His followers?

Bottom line. God is generous so we should be generous. (Isaiah 55:1-7) Our hearts often get in the way. We must prioritize compassion over convenience, comfort, cost, and lack of commitment. Pride derails washing feet. Challenge your consumer mindset. Be creative. Carolyn Lacey states, “Persistence in hospitality is one way to be countercultural – taking people by surprise, just as God’s grace does.” For Jesus, welcoming was personal.  Offer the invitation to gather, sit on the couch covered in your pet’s dog hair and lean in to the lives and the eternal destinations of others. There is no generosity without sacrifice. Love outwardly. Open your home and your heart. Be Kingdom minded and make Heaven crowded.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER  7TH Matthew 11:28-30
Labor Day by Shawn Hammontree

Are you tired? Does your job have you exhausted?  Did you lose your job recently and you are trying to find a way to make ends meet?  Does life have you carrying a load of burden?  Chances are life has, or has had, each one of us answering a big “YES!” to at least one of these questions. Life can be difficult.  “Adulting”, (as the millennials often call it.), is just plain no fun often times.  However, there is good news!  There is good news if you are laboring under a yoke of burden- be it an emotional, physical, economical, and especially a spiritual one.  You can bring all your cares and lay them at the feet of the burden lifter, Jesus Christ.  He can carry them.  So, on this Labor Day 2020, may you read these words of Jesus, (some of my very favorite in all the Bible), and find rest for your weary soul for today and every day.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Why not pause, even now, and ask the Savior to take the yoke you are carrying?  He’s waiting and He is willing.  Trust Him.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH 
By Terri Scharn
Bro. Jason, shared this week about a “look alike” he has. Has anyone ever told you, that you remind them of someone?  I have several times. Of course, unlike Bro. Jason’s situation, this person was not near me for folks to get us confused.  It was so funny listening to him share how people mistook them for each other, not to mention how embarrassing it was for the people who thought that.  I too have spoken to someone I thought was another person. I could have crawled UNDER the earth.
On a serious note, it sure is a good lesson for us, me especially, how people look as us.  Unfortunately, I don’t think of that a lot, but maybe I should.  How do I present myself when I go about my daily life?  Even at home around my family.
I have heard people who use the excuse, ”Look how they act, and they go to church”.  Could someone be talking about us? You bet they could.
Let us take heart, and learn from the resemblances, Bro. Jason shared, and make sure that our walk, will be the kind that people will know exactly who we represent.

Father, help us to remember, our life may be the only Jesus, some people see. In Your Sweet Name we pray. Amen

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH 2 Timothy 3:12 (NAS)
Refining by Fire/Persecution by Kerry Stitch
“…all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”-2 Timothy 3:12

Close your eyes and inhale.  Did you get a whiff?  Fall is just around the corner even if your thermometer didn’t get the memo.  While some of you may be ushering in leggings, leaves and lattes; I’m sure we can all agree that the cozy bonfires and pumpkin spice mugs of liquid gold will be welcome retreats, especially in a Covid crazy, chaotic 2020. May I remind us that those “fires” have lots to teach us spiritually as well?  
1.  Fire illuminates.  Even wearing the mask-mandated fashion accessory, we cannot hide our face from the Father. How much investment are we intentionally setting aside to warm up in His presence? It shows…ask Moses. Prayer allows our sight to adjust in the darkness and focus on the light of His leading.
2.  Fire refines.  Examine our responses.  Are the BE-attitudes our default setting?  Burning can serve a godly purpose to slough off the buildup of self and create a new layer that has tenderness toward God’s mindset...one that only the Sonshine can produce. Be sure to apply the SPF! (Spirit-Produced Faithfulness)
3.  Fire produces flexibility.  Ask any jeweler.  Those precious metals need heat applied to redirect their shape and ultimate beauty.  On their own, they tend to be hard, cold, and “set” in their own ways.  Endurance and yielding to the properties of divine heat is crucial for the Master to yield them treasures He can use.
4.  Fire will warm you.  Although it may arrive in the form of persecution, prejudice, or personal struggle; its attributes are bone-deep and totally satisfying.  Ditch the flannel for the Father.  Swap the sweater for the Savior.  Instead of the leaves, jump into the joy of Jesus!  
So…carve the pumpkins, toast the marshmallows, and enjoy that walk in the woods. Just be reminded that more life-changing that s’mores, hayrides, and cider is the captivating life of abundance in choosing Christ.  Haul the wood, enjoy what’s coming…delight yourself not only in this season called fall, but in falling in love with Jesus!

MONDAY, AUGUST 31ST Romans 10:15
THANK YOU, BOBBY TUCKER!
“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.”- Romans 10:15

For fifty-three years Bobby Tucker has been preaching the good news.  In those six decades, he has spread the news of Christ to thousands.  Whether that be on Sunday mornings/nights or Wednesday nights at the churches he served, or speaking at conferences, camps, and revivals all over the place, many have heard about the grace of God from his lips.  (And many have responded by surrendering their hearts and lives to Jesus.)  Many souls will be around the throne of the Savior because of Bobby Tucker.

Today he begins a new chapter of his journey by beginning his retirement.  And although this man is heading back to his boyhood home in the small eastern town of Minneola, Texas, we know that God is not through using this wonderful man of God.  The LORD will continue to use this wonderful servant in the years ahead.  

Bobby, we, here at Antioch in Conway, Arkansas, are forever grateful for your years of service to our church!  Your passion for people, your love for God, your generous and giving heart, your wonderful giftedness in communicating God’s Word, and your love for everything Texas A&M, (okay, maybe we could have done without this part), have had a huge impact on all of us!  We want to be better followers of Jesus because of you!  Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!

ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH LOVES BOBBY TUCKER!  May you enjoy your well-deserved retirement!

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Powerfulness When Feeling Powerless by Paula McKee

“May all of us lead lives that point people to Jesus because he’s the only one who can make a difference.”  Bobby Tucker, August 30th, 2020

I was once confronted by the guardian of a child I had directed to go to the office to get a new shirt to wear because hers wasn’t school appropriate. The girl had the word BOOM across her shirt, and she and her friends were laughing about the reference to that word in a song and what the reference meant. God guided my words as I talked to the 21-year-old sister/guardian. She thought I was a racist, unfairly judging her sister, but when she heard my sincere concern for her sister, her anger quickly diffused.  When she left, we hugged.  We had made a connection that could have only come from God.
While Jason preached about living a life worthy of the calling Christians have received (Ephesians 3:20), an image popped into my mind of a group of Christians kneeling in the street between the Black Lives Matter protesters and the gun-toking anti-protesters while police officers attempted to maintain order. I imagined the Christians kneeling and praying and singing hymns. A few of the protesters joined with the Christians. Then a few of the anti-protesters also joined along with police officers, and soon the hate and pain and fear diminished as people came together worshipping and praising God, the only one who can heal.
I am clinging to that image this week. I am powerless, but God is powerful. In all situations, HE IS POWERFUL.  Look past the fear and anger in others and see their humanity; they are God's children. He doesn't desire to lose any of them.  

Dear Heavenly Father, When I feel overwhelmed, fill me with your wisdom, love, and calm reassurance. Thank you for all of the times you have done that for me. All day, every day, guide me so that I lead a life that points people to you. In Jesus’ holy name I pray, Amen.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND Romans 12:4-6
By Cindy Beckman
‘For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.  Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them…”-Romans 12:4-6

One of the first studies we participated in at Antioch was determining spiritual gifts.  While we are ALL to love God and love others, Jesus gave us these gifts to equip us do those special things that He has called us specifically to do.  God has designed you for a purpose and puts you in places where you can be His hands and feet to show His love to others.
Bobby Tucker taught that class but more so, in the years since I met him, he has lived out the principles he taught there.  He has also quietly encouraged many others, including myself, to cultivate and use the special gifts God has given them.  As he retires, to move on to the next chapter of what God has for his life, I know undoubtedly that he will continue to love God and love others, continuing to serve where he is planted and using the gifts God has given him.

Prayer:  Help us see opportunities each day to show Your love to those around us.  Help us to use the spiritual gifts and special grace You have given us to meet their needs.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD
Our Times by Paulette Herring
 As we look to the future, hoping for a more exciting season ahead, we know that God is in control.  Bro. Bobby said I've never seen God shut us down like this.
Our song Sunday said God is a way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, a light in the darkness.  These times could be described as dark or we are on some kind of detour.
Paul said we are to have these things in our heart:  we need to be humble, gentle, patient, truthful, kind, compassionate, and patient.  We need to love God and love others.
God is up to something.  He has the whole world's attention.  We need to get on board for exciting times ahead.
Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.  Bro. Bobby's favorite song

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH Ephesians 4:1 (NIV)
Cancel Culture by Chris Blacksmith
“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”-Ephesians 4:1
 
“Cancel culture” has become two of the most debated buzzwords in recent months.  The mere mention of this phrase promotes fear and anxiety simply because of its potential to erase a nation’s history and heritage.  Thankfully God is not the God of fear and has graciously provided His children with that of, “...power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”   it is for that very reason that we can be part of an everlasting cancel culture that began before the foundations of the earth and culminated in the death burial and resurrection of God’s son.  Jesus truly began a cancel culture like no other.  His act of love and obedience canceled the debt we owed but couldn’t pay, it canceled our condition of spiritual death we couldn’t overcome, and it canceled our bonds of guilt and shame we couldn’t free ourselves from.  The beauty of this cancel culture is that it changes humanity for the good.  Romans 10: 9, 10 & 13 says, “if you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. ... for, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord  will be saved.’”  Our role in this “cancel culture” is to proclaim the message of salvation to those who need it most: people like our family, our neighbors, our co-workers, and anyone else we come in contact with.  Paul, who was a prisoner at the time, urged the church in Ephesus, and more importantly challenges us today, to be an active participant.  This is most effective when each of us follows his charge to: “live a life worthy of the calling [we] have received.”

MONDAY, AUGUST 24TH Matthew 5:9
By Nita Kay Freeman
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God”- Matthew 5:9
 
Peace . . . it’s what we all long for.  I’m enjoying my empty nest.  One thing I can say about it, is it’s pretty peaceful.  As the mother of 3 children that were very close in age, peace wasn’t something that you found around our house very often!  I felt like all I did was long for and try to make peace in our household.  Sometimes, I abandoned truth as Jason talked about in the message.  Sometimes, I just wanted all the conflict and noise to stop so badly that I said whatever I needed to so that we would find peace in our home.  That is not what God intended.  One of the things I read about this scripture really stuck with me: “A peacemaker longs for peace, works for peace and sacrifices for peace, but the attainment of peace may not come.”  Jason told us that true PEACE only comes through Christ.  In order to become a true peacemaker, you must love peace and work for peace.  You must pray for your enemies and do good to them.  But never abandon your allegiance to Christ to ACHIEVE peace.  I’ll end with this quote from Dr. Michelle Bengtson . . . “God’s peace is not the calm after the storm.  It’s the steadfastness during it.”

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25TH Matthew 5:9 (The Message)
By Toya Aultman
"You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.”-Matthew 5:9

Well now, that just puts it in a different perspective doesn't it? How many of us often try to play devil's advocate? Whether it's over sports, or politics, or roundabouts (Conway folks get this) or to wear a mask or not wear a mask...way too often I find myself and others trying to prove our points, or just trying to stir things up.
Does that step on my toes? Absolutely! And honestly, I hate that! Not because it hurts, but because I find myself not always being an encouragement in helping people to get along. A peacemaker.
Billy Graham once wrote, "Man's conflict with man has been but an expression on the human level of his conflict with God. Until man finds armistice with God, he cannot know peace with his fellowman. If we are to be peacemakers, we first must make our peace with God."
So there you have it...Know God. Know Peace. No God. No Peace.

Father God, work in my life and help me to be a peacemaker. Draw my heart to Your filling peace every morning. Amen.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26TH Micah 5:5 (AMP)
Guilty by Kerry Stitch
“This One (the Messiah) shall be our peace.”-Micah 5:5

“Dear Everyone, I’m guilty!”  I like to BE right.  Sadly, this isn’t listed in Matthew 5 as one of the Be-attitudes.  I’ve searched for it…not there.  In fact, I’m convinced that there must be an addictive high that comes with thinking we are right to explain its power over us.  We’ve all done it…scrolled some screens to bank a reservoir of support to validate our “rightness.”  Honestly, the more we promote our rightness apart from Christ’s example…the louder our immaturity and ignorance screams. “It ain’t a purty picture!” Trust me.
So how do we shift to the masterpiece only God can paint on our hearts? Let’s start with peacefulness.  It seems to have been deleted from much of our world today.  It starts with our canvas being yielded to the ultimate display of beauty…the mind of Christ. When our clay is relinquished on the potter’s wheel; He is more than able to create a priceless treasure, worthy of His handiwork. When we choose to allow the Heavenly Sculptor to chip away at our warring reactions and transform our responses to something worthy to gaze upon as supernatural; others stop to take in the beauty.  (Much like stopping to enjoy an artistic creation displayed from a lighted, focal point in a prestigious museum).
 Incidentally, our value becomes most evident in His reflection from the “piece/peace.”  By all standards, timeless and beautiful are a given with His signature attached.  Sadly, most of the art forms we manufacture these days are hate-infused, self-sufficient slogans paraded amid chaos that better depict war zones.  Many are puny attempts at self-promoting illicit conflict, arrogance, and division.  Do we really believe that powering up with brute force, manipulation, and propaganda moves us closer to God’s design?  I’m not a math whiz, but the addition of hate, threats, and destruction never adds up to success or God’s version of peace.  Jesus has always been in the business of being the Master Craftsman.  His ways, His presence, His reconciliation, His priorities, His characteristics, His peacefulness are included in the divine tool pouch we should draw from in creating every day masterpieces.  Will it be easy, efficient, and effortless…NO! Ask a diamond.  
But will it be worth it?  Ask Jesus.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27TH Matthew 5:9 (MSG)
By Terri Scharn
“You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight.  That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.” -Matthew 5:9

Sometimes, we so often act before we speak. I know, how easy that is to do. We are all human and sometimes forget that it is a constant battle with our inner self.  
As, Bro. Jason said in his message, we are to make peace a high priority.  Strive to live at peace with others....sometimes this will take extreme effort.  Other times it will not be an effort at all, because  things are going well.  But......then there are those times when it takes every effort and more just to keep our emotions in check. This is why it is so important for us to stay focused on Jesus, despite our troubles. He gives us peace, and wisdom for how to minister to someone who is anything but peaceful.
  We must recognize our source of peace, that being Jesus Christ , (NIV) Eph. 2:14 "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one, and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility."
I love object lessons, and one that comes to mind is this....If I sit a pot of flowers on a bed of rocks in a shallow container, then the plant will absorb the water and it will thrive, providing it has proper sunshine, etc., but the point is all the while the plant is there, it is absorbing water... but in reality,  if we are continually grounded daily in His word and work we absorb all He has for us and then we will be ready to meet anyone that comes across our path.
Because the Bible begins and ends with peace it should be our mission to fill in the middle and be an "Agent of Peace" and the only way for us to do that is to abide in the Lord and His guidance.
Thank you Father for trusting us to be an agent of your peace. Help us to recognize how important this is and how much the world needs it. In Jesus Name we ask these things . Amen

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28TH Matthew 5:9
By Cindy Beckman
“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.”-Matthew 5:9

As you are well aware, many are trying to go back to their regular routines after a summer of uncertainties, especially those in our schools and colleges.  They are anxious and worried, for their physical health as well as having to go about their day in a different manner than before.  As children of God—Christians—be intentional this week in pointing those you encounter to the true source of peace in these uncertain times: For He Himself is our peace (Eph. 2:14).  

In the beginning, there was peace but then sin entered the picture as our adversary, the devil, began walking around, seeking whom he could devour (I Peter 5:8), causing division, confusion and uncertainty.  Our God is not the author of confusion, but peace (I Cor. 14:33) and those around you need to be pointed toward Him for the peace they seek.  Jesus is the only one who can fix our broken world.  Social reforms, government interventions, and even all the well-meaning humanitarian efforts cannot without God’s divine intervention.

Prayer:  Help us to be mindful in pointing others toward the true source of peace—a restored relationship with You that only comes by accepting the free gift of Your Son who died for our sins.  

MONDAY, AUGUST 17TH Philippians 4:6-8
By Cindy Beckman
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there be any virtue and if there be anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.”- Philippians 4:6-8

As a high school history teacher for 30 years, I sometimes disagreed with the decisions being made about policies/procedures or the education of our students.  Sometimes I was very vocal in my objections and even volunteered for that committee so I could help us move in what I thought was the right direction.  I sat on curriculum committees and personnel policy committees, not because it was fun but because it was important.

But other times, I just had to sit by and watch things play out, knowing that God was in control, no matter what.  Sometimes my concerns were ultimately realized while other times things worked out better than I could have imagined (Rom. 8:28).  Sometimes God closed a door and opened a window.

Through those experiences, I learned that it didn’t help to berate those making decisions or try to discredit them.  God would remind me that wasn’t how we should treat other people, even when we disagree with them or think they are making bad decisions.  We should pray for them to make good decisions rather than destroy them in the teacher’s lounge or social media.  He is still in charge and He loves them and me.

Instead, He gave us the right way to handle life’s difficulties in these verses.  And we are going through some pretty extraordinary difficulties right now!  Lift those challenges and concerns up to God in prayer and follow His instructions in verse 8.  

Prayer:  Thank you Lord that you are with us, even in these extraordinary times.  Place a hedge of protection around us.  May your Spirit remind us to lift our prayers to you and keep our mind focused on what is true, noble, pure, lovely, good report, virtuous and praiseworthy as we encounter challenges in the weeks ahead.  

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18TH Philippians 4:6-8 (NIV)
Thinking Straight by Chris Blacksmith
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.”- Philippians 4:6-8

If you’ve been around industrial occupations of any kind you’ve heard of O.S.H.A. Basically it’s an organization that implements safety regulations so as to prevent workplace injuries.  Most of which could have been avoided had employers been proactive in making a safer working environment.  Our life isn’t any different.  God has given us instructions that, if followed, will help us live a rich and fulfilling life that honors Him.  One of the principles we find in Philippians pertains to our thoughts.  It’s easy to fill our mind with the garbage of the world, which always leads to grief and certain regrets. Conversely God is honored when we think of things that are pure, noble, right, lovely, excellent, and praiseworthy.  The best result of thinking straight is that it helps foster our relationship with God who will in turn, “...guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19TH Matthew 23:28
LIFE IS LIKE A SALAD BAR by Paula McKee
“In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.”-Matthew 23:28

Life isn’t like a box of chocolates; it’s like a salad bar. Garbanzo beans, pineapple, ham cubes, and chopped eggs can look good when they’ve actually gone bad.

Parts of our lives go bad if we don’t pay close attention.

In the Beatitudes, Jesus tells us that “blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” If my goal is seeing God, I want to maintain a good “salad bar” so that God doesn’t want to spit me out (Revelation 3:16).

PURE HEART I can’t let that lettuce wilt, I have to change it out daily...or maybe hourly or minute by minute...by going to God in prayer and submitting my will to His will.

PURE EYES: The cheese and eggs and bacon bits must be quality. They must be things that God would approve. If they’ve gone bad in some way, out they must go...not tomorrow but NOW. I must keep my EYES pure by looking to those things that would be approved by God.

PURE ACTIONS: If I am maintaining the salad bar, I choose: what I keep, what I discard, what I add, what I freshen. Your choices lead to the actions that either make your life quality or a toxic mess.  

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20TH Matthew 5:8
Beatitudes by Paulette Herring
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”- Matthew 5:8

Our hearts are muscles that pump blood through the body and sustain physical life.  A cardiac arrest is when the heart stops.  Our hearts are the essence of who we are, our will and our character.
Psalms 51:10 “Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”  It is to be uncontaminated. pure, holy, and good.
Proverbs 7:2-3 “Keep my commandments and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablets of your heart.”
Our eyes are very important to what goes in our heart.  We have to be very careful with cell phones, TV, movies, videos, and the internet.  It is so easy, no effort, no challenge, just the tip of our fingers.
Psalm 141:8 “But my eyes are fixed on you Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge- do not give me over to death”.  Hebrews 12:2 “…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God.”
How are we going to do all this?  Psalms 121:1 “I will lift up my eyes to the mountains- where does my help come from?”  Read the rest of the chapter, it is short.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21ST Matthew 5:8
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”-Matthew 5:8

Our Pastor’s sermon this past Sunday was centered around this verse.  He mentioned that in order to see God, (with your spiritual eyes), day-to-day, you must keep your physical eyes pure.  When your eyes wander places they aren’t supposed to go, they lead you away from being able to focus on the heart of God and His working in your life.  Bottomline: your physical eyes affect your spiritual eyes.
As a man who has worked with numerous Christian men who have had a problem with pornography, I have to say that truer words have never been spoken. PORN IS RAMPANT in our society; and trust me, it is way worse than you think! And when this drug enters the Christian’s life it damages and destroys both their ability to view the opposite sex in a God honoring way, as well as being able to see and sense the Holy Spirit in their life.  Encountering a Christian who has lost their purity of heart due to porn is a very sad and unsettling thing to see.  They want to “see” God but they can’t because their want to see the other has become a greater pull.  It truly saddens the one working with them, and I can’t imagine how it must crush the heart of the One who desires they “see” Him.
What is the answer to such a sight problem?  How does one struggling with what they are seeing and what they need to be “seeing” get victory? Here is where to start:

1. Come clean with God.  Confession and repentance must enter the equation.  You must come to the point where you genuinely desire God to change you.
2. Come clean with a trusted Christian.  You need a person who is walking with and seeing God in their daily life to help counsel you, direct you, and hold you accountable in this area.
3. Think and rethink the Gospel daily.  When you begin to second-by-second, minute-by-minute, hour-by-hour, day-by-day recall the price Jesus paid for your sins, you sense His incredible love for you and you begin to want to live a life of total appreciation and surrender to Him.  When you focus on the cross with all your spiritual sight, you will find that your physical eyes will begin to focus on what pleases the One who went to that cross 

MONDAY, AUGUST 10TH Matthew 5:7
By Shawn Hammontree
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”- Matthew 5:7

I have to make a personal confession.  There was a time in my late teens where God showed incredible grace and mercy towards me.  I was convicted of my sins. (And I’m ashamed to say that they were more than I care to admit.) I confessed those sins. I turned from those sins. And God totally forgave me and cleansed from each and every one of them.  I was shown incredible grace and mercy.  I was so overwhelmed by the love and mercy God had shown me, that I displayed love and mercy to others. I just wanted to show them the same love and kindness that I had been given.  One that was free of charge, with no need to ever try and pay me back.  It was a wonderful time in my life.  Unfortunately, things changed.  I began to lose some of the mercy factor in my life.  I gradually began to do things out of a sense of obligation to God rather than out of a sense of appreciation to Him.  What was once a mercy filled life, slowly became a legalistic one.  I was miserable…and misery loves company.  So, where I once showed mercy to others, I became more demanding that they too “go by the rules”.  Mercy had gone out the window of my heart and a works-based faith had barged through the front door.  It was a monster…a big ugly monster…that stayed waaaaay too long.

Praise God that has changed in me!  Although the change has been gradual and slow, and still continues to this day, Jesus, (patiently, mercifully kind as always), has reminded me of the incredible gift of his mercy.  This reminder has helped me to return to the late teens Shawn who was shown such incredible mercy.  And in this process, I am discovering/rediscovering several things:
-God has forgiven me of so much more than I can ever fathom.
-Since His mercy has been freely give to me, I must also freely dispense it.
-His mercies are new for me, and you, every day.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11TH Matthew 5:7
ByNita Kay Freeman
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy”-Matthew 5:7

Our Pastor opened with this question Sunday morning, “are you a person who shows mercy?”  God’s expectation is that because of the mercy he showed toward us, we should be merciful!  Webster defines mercy as follows:  A compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender . . . showing leniency.  Here are some examples of mercy in the Bible:
M -- Merciful God.  Deuteronomy 4:31 tells us ‘the Lord your God is a merciful God.  He will not abandon you, destroy you or forget the promise to you ancestors that he swore he would keep.”
E -- East to West.  In Psalm 103 David writes, “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us”
R -- Refusal.  Matthew 6:15, “If you REFUSE to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
C -- Never Ceasing.  “The faithful love of the LORD never ends!  His mercies never cease.”  Lamentations 3:22
Y -- You.  “You once were not a people but now you are God’s people.  You were shown no mercy, but now you have received mercy.”  1 Peter 2:10.

Thank you, Father, for your unending mercy!

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12TH Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV), 
Intentions By Kerry Stitch
“His mercies never end…They are new every morning.”-Lamentations 3:22-23

What grabs your attention…headlines, hobbies, homeland security, hate, heroes, or hypocrisy?  Hit pause. Are we sleep-walking through attention or intention?   Is it labeled purposeful, reactive, or urgent? Who will benefit from knowing you this week…just you? When we choose to board a mindless carnival ride of a self-imposed schedule, we will “busy” our best intentions into evaporation. Margaret Thatcher wisely noted, “No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions…”  Perhaps the BE-attitudes give us an enlightening nudge that a huge helping of MERCY needs to be folded in to our daily recipe for a God-honoring lifestyle.  
The creative genius in Thomas Edison reveals, “A good intention with a bad approach, often leads to a poor result.” That statement needs to “simmer” on many of us for a while.  The “how” we approach intentions is answered with MERCY.    
 So how do we recalibrate many of our human, factory settings and increase our band width of “to be” benevolent instead of “to do” indulgent?  Look for the Father’s face in others.  Are you game?  First, rewind to the personal reflections of our less than stellar past or present. Does a mirror bring into focus our lack of graciousness, decency, and concern?  Life doesn’t always introduce us to the people we want to meet.  Offering grace is a testimony of seeking a greater good than deserved…of tossing the prison cell keys to others on our journey out of those restrictive walls.  
An awareness of God’s infinite mercy will cancel any pity party we care to throw.   Not long ago, I released many prayers and balloons at the gravesite of a family member who modeled compassion (kindness with clothes on) for decades to me.  As those purple globes of color cleared the trees, their flight soared skyward.  Consider how much farther we might soar for the Kingdom if we extended mercy through intentional acts of service, exercising forgiveness, believing the best in others, choosing to be clothed in humility and anonymity, and listening for God’s whisper. Untethering resentment, anger and bitterness, frees these toxins to lift and lighten your load and spirit.  Spreading mercy through service and encouragement might be a “virus” worth catching.  Those stats would directly impact the death rate for eternity.   Wouldn’t that be something worth grabbing our attention these days?  That vaccine is already available and proven through accepting Jesus…schedule that heart procedure as well; the Great Physician is available for diagnosis, and overflowing with positive cases of mercy.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13TH Matthew 5:7
By  Toya Aultman
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”-Matthew 5:7

Grace: getting what you don't deserve.
Mercy: not getting what you do deserve.

I've never had much of a problem showing grace. It, quite frankly, comes so much easier to me than mercy. It doesn't matter if it's a stranger on the street or one of my kids, giving a gift of grace is, most of the time, quite easy.
BUT mercy?? Oh mercy! That one is a struggle. I'm guessing I may not be the only one who struggles with it. The other day I read a Facebook post of a friend that said she had rushed into a grocery store and forgot her mask. Some lady (a complete stranger) told her "I hope you get the virus and die!" I was like, "WHAT??!!"
Perhaps our lack of mercy isn't quite that harsh, but let someone cut me off in traffic, or be going 45 in the fast lane and grrrr! My kids will often tell me they deserve something and my reply is "The only thing we deserve is death and hell." This week, I'm praying God reminds me of that daily...that while I deserve death and Hell, He offers me mercy, new mercies every single day, and eternal life in Heaven with Him!

Father, thank You for viewing me through the blood of Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for those precious new mercies given to me every single day. Amen.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14TH Philippians 2:5 (NIV)
Show Mercy by Chris Blacksmith
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”-Philippians 2:5

What’s the quickest way to reconcile a relationship? Show Mercy.
What’s the hardest thing to do when you’ve been wronged?
Show Mercy.
What was the example set before us by Christ?
Show Mercy.
How exactly does one show mercy?  Paul said in Philippians 2:5, “...let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” This verse in its context clearly challenges us to relate with each other just as the Lord relates to us.  We are to be like minded, walk in love, show humility, and value others above ourselves.  Amazingly enough this can’t happen if we fail to show mercy. If you’re like me and you struggle with this facet of life try following these effective steps and before you know it you’ll have extended the biblical principle of mercy to someone who desperately needs it.  
M- Manage to forgive
E- Expect nothing in return
R- Replace the hurt and anger with love and peace
C- Change your mind to be like minded with Christ
Y- Yield to the will of God concerning you

MONDAY, JULY 27TH Matthew 5:6
By Shawn Hammontree
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”- Matthew 5:6
 
“SNICKERS really satisfies.”  This is a slogan that came out forty years ago, (Yes, it has been that long!), for the popular peanut filled candy bar.  And you know what?  They are right.  Whenever I am hungry and it is going to be a while until my next meal, I reach for one of these nuggets of pure delight and I am satisfied…at least until my stomach gets empty and I’m craving another meal of some sort.  My physical hunger is always just temporarily filled.  I will hunger again for nourishment sooner or later.
Did you know that this is how spiritual hunger works as well?  If you have surrendered your life to Christ, then you have received a right standing before God that only comes through him and his righteousness.  Our only hope for true righteousness is Jesus’ shed blood on the cross on our behalf.   There is no righteousness apart from this. However, once we have come to know Christ and received his righteousness, we soon realize that our conversion experience isn’t enough to keep us filled between now and heaven.  We need spiritual nourishment!  And just like we might reach for that candy bar between meals, we need to reach for God’s promises to fill our spiritual longing.  That is why every Christian must come to the place where they begin to hunger and thirst for righteousness.  And as we begin to hunger and thirst for this, we can find second-by-second fulfillment through the Holy Spirit.
Approximately thirty years ago, the group 4HIM came out with a song called “Living Water, Bread of Life”.  I often go back and listen to this song because it is so rich concerning my original salvation experience, as well as my daily need for Jesus.  Let these lyrics speak to you today, and realize only Jesus REALLY SATISFIES.  
“For so long I have been empty
Nothing else will satisfy
You alone are what I need, Lord
Living Water, Bread of Life.”

TUESDAY, JULY 28TH Psalm 139:4 (AMP)
By  Kerry Stitch
“Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, You know it all.”- Psalm 139:4
 
Masks; they have become the fashion accessory of 2020!  They are marketed in every color, style, material, and design imaginable.  They are literally everywhere these days, “Thank you ‘Rona!”  The debate may be new as to their effectiveness in battling an historic pandemic, but their origin may have started as early as THE garden.  If we are honest, (I know that’s a stretch these days.) we have been choosing to wear them when we want to “cover” our spiritual deficiencies and not expose our sinful areas of lacking, (our unrighteousness).
Isn’t it just like us to think we can hide only what God can redeem in the light?  We struggle, don’t we?  Self-righteousness refuses to be covered with a mask…it glaringly shows.  The holy righteousness of Christ is the eternal covering we should be reaching for these days.  Unmasking through confession, changed actions, and abiding close to our Father are evidences of walking with Him.
Check your wardrobe these days.  While sweat pants, t-shirts, and fuzzy slippers may be your attire for Zoom meetings; will you mask up physically or spiritually when you venture out?  Transparency is a gift we often don’t share with others.  It’s a gamble sharing our less than stellar past, present struggles, and future dreams.  Appearances loom huge these days and “spinning” a narrative seems almost commonplace.  Jesus teaches that to experience the freedom that he offers, we must do more than “appear” to be in His family.  Conforming to His best demands a hunger and longing for His love relationship to be our ultimate desire.
As you choose your wardrobe in the coming days, it’s imperative that you understand that being “clothed” in His love through discipleship never goes out of style.  Masks certainly are a part of today’s attire.  Just be reminded of His once and for all covering (not one of your own making) that eternally protects, provides, and perfects.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29TH Matthew 5:6
By Terri Scharn
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”- Matthew 5:6

What did you have for your last meal...and...were you satisfied?  I can't always say that I am, maybe because it's not really what I wanted or, just didn't satisfy me, which....makes me want more.
This week Bro. Jason spoke about this scripture in Matthew. Because we are human and our bodies need food and water, this seems to take over our thinking completely.  We really fuss if we have to wait for our meal. AND what if you took off to work, etc. got there and realized you forgot your lunch...wait and see if you don't become "starving", even if you've recently eaten. There is just something about not having food at our disposal.
But, what about our spiritual hunger...I dare say, if I didn't have devotional time or study time, it would  not affect me the way it would have had I 'forgot my lunch".  I am so ashamed to admit this but, being honest is one step to repentance.
May we all take time this week to stop for a time and think and pray about our relationship with food, and anything we spend more time on than we do worshiping and leaning close to Our Father.
Let's pray for God to give us that same hunger to know Him more.

THURSDAY, JULY 30TH Psalm 139:23-24
By Toya Aultman
"Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine
and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—then guide me on the road to eternal life.”- Psalm 139:23-24 (MSG)

We all know that person who "appears" to be sweet and kind in front of the people who matter to them, but let those folks turn their heads and wham! The real them comes out. I suppose having a teenage girl helps me to see that more clearly, but truly there are folks like that in all ages of life, not just the "mean girls" stage. Perhaps we have even been that person a time or two ourselves.

Sometimes we don't want others to see the real us because of fear of them discovering something they don't like. May we trust God to search our hearts, make us clean. He knows everything we have ever done, doing, or will do and STILL loves us! He knows us and loves us completely and desires His best for us. Who better to search our every anxious thought and make us clean?

Father God, Your loves continues to blow my mind! I sit here in awe of Your love. You know every single detail of my entire life, from conception to eternity, and yet You love me. "Thank You" seems so inadequate, but THANK YOU, Father! Amen.

FRIDAY, JULY 31ST Matthew 5:6
By Nita Kay Freeman
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.”- Matthew 5:6

There have been so many times I have cried out “Lord, I want to hunger for you! I want to desire to be like you! I want to NEED you! Full transparency here, I feel so much closer to God when I NEED something! That is sad, yet true. I yearn to be satisfied by my Father, even when things are going great. Lately, while being quarantined and not being allowed gathering in larger groups, I have found more time being spent in the Word.
While thinking about Sunday’s message and the Beatitude found in the above scripture, I find this a message full of HOPE and one that should give us, as believers, a great sense of JOY! While we search the WORLD over for satisfaction, may we all find that there is TRUE satisfaction, but ONLY through our Savior!
In Ecclesiastes 3:11, we are told “He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end!” We should have a hunger and thirst for this eternity in our hearts. Are we spending our money on things that do not satisfy us? Are we drinking from water fountains that hold no water instead of drinking from the streams of living water? What are you trying to satisfy yourself with? Only our Heavenly Father can truly satisfy us! I’ll end with a quote from C.S. Lewis, “we are half-hearted creatures, fooling around with drink and sex and ambition, when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at sea, we are far too easily pleased.”

MONDAY, JULY 20TH Psalm 51:16-17 (MSG)
By Toya Aultman
"Going through the motions doesn’t please you, flawless performance is
nothing to you. I learned God-worship when my pride was shattered.
Heart-shattered lives ready for love don’t for a moment escape God’s
notice."

God used Psalm 51 several years back to really speak to my heart. I had
gone through the motions for a while and just needed God to break my
heart for what broke His. We don't go to church to be seen. We don't go
to church with a "bless me if you can" attitude. We don't go to church
for a nap. We go to church to worship, to worship the Creator of ALL
things, the Savior for this hurting world.

The church building may look a little sparse these days, but rest
assured the church of God is still alive and well! Don't allow the enemy
to steal your joy of worship. Allow God to search your heart, to restore
the joy of His salvation, if that is needed. Allow His Spirit to work in
your inmost being and be grieved for the things that grieve God and to
rejoice in the things that make Him famous!

Hillsong has a song that says, "Heal my heart and make it clean. Open up
my eyes to the things unseen. Show me how to love, like You have loved
me. Break my heart for what breaks Yours, everything I am for Your
kingdom's cause, as I walk from earth into eternity." Oh dear friends,
may we walk into eternity giving all praise to the ONLY ONE who is
worthy!

Precious Father, thank You for loving me and forgiving me. Thank You for
always being faithful when I call. Please open my eyes and allow me to
be a light for You in these dark and troubling days. Amen.

TUESDAY, JULY 21ST Matthew 5:5 (NIV)
Gentle Giant by Paulette Herring
“Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth.”- Matthew 5:5

This verse is another Beatitude taken from the Sermon on the Mount. Sometimes we think of meekness as a weakness, but it is not. Meekness is power under restraint. Some characteristics of meekness are to soothe, bring comfort, have patience, respect, humility, beauty, kindness and to be gentle.
A breeze can bring soothing relief but if it becomes a raging wind, it can cause great damage. A gentle horse will let a rider harness it, lead it, and climb onto its back. The horse weighs a lot more than you do, yet it can be easily led.
Jesus was humble enough to die on the cross for us. He had the power to stop it, by just calling on the angels. He endured the cross for us. He bent down so we could be lifted up. This is the power of restraint.
Lift up someone this week and be a blessing to them. We all could use some blessings right now!

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22ND Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
Words Are Powerful by Chris Blacksmith
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”- Proverbs 15:1

History has proven time and time again that words are powerful. Consider Winston Churchill’s speech during World War II when he rallied the forces of England to victory with these words, “We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields, and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills, we shall never surrender.”
Yes it’s true words are powerful; God spoke and creation came into existence. Jesus calmed the storm when He said, “peace be still”. Later He said, “It is finished” and brought salvation to all of humanity. Yes it’s true words are powerful.
Have you considered just how powerful your words are? Just think how your words might affect someone. True enough, we can be harsh and get the upper hand, but at what cost? Who knows it may be your words that pushes someone away. It may be your words that pushes someone over the top. Even worse it may be your words that prevent someone from coming to Christ. Yes it’s true words are powerful. With that said, take some time before you speak, and be gentle with your speech. The outcome will be rewarding and your heart will be filled with peace because words are powerful.

THURSDAY, JULY 23RD John 10:10
Is Meekness Weakness? by Paula McKee
“The thief [Satan] comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I [,Jesus,] have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”- John 10:10
 
Epic battles occur regularly between frustrated adults and willful children. I remember gripping my toddler’s clothing through the vertical slats of a chair as she arched her back and struggled. I gritted my teeth and fairly hissed, “You will sit here until I tell you can get up.”
Isn’t that a reasonable picture of what we too often do to God? We arch our backs and fight against the pull of what He knows is best for us. We must touch that hot stove and figure out that it burns before we humble ourselves and acknowledge that when we allow our spirits to be nailed to the cross, we win. The meek “inherit the earth” for a reason. Meekly accept the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Nail that rebellious spirit to the cross and live a blessed life.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for not giving up on me. Help me to live according to your will today and every day. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

FRIDAY, JULY 24TH Matthew 5:7
By Jeff Rice
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”- Matthew 5:7
I must confess that I am not very handy when it comes to fixing things around the house. I have always said that I know just enough to make a 30 minute job a 3 hour job. But, nonetheless I love to watch DIY programs on TV. I always think to myself, “I can do that”. We live in a culture that is obsessed with Self-Help advice and DIY projects, and there is nothing wrong with this but as believers we need to be careful to not approach the Bible in the same way.
The Bible is not a self-help book that gives you the magic formula or keys to make the necessary changes to your life so you can enjoy your best life here on this Earth. It is a book that reveals man’s brokenness and sinfulness and our desperate need for a Savior. God did not send His Son to improve us but to transform us!
So as we read and meditate on the beatitudes let’s not get caught in the trap of self-righteousness that says if we just discipline ourselves enough and change our attitude God will bless us. This whole sermon speaks to that very thing. If the attitude of our heart is going to change then it will be the Spirit of God working in us to transform us.
Pastor Jason told us that to be meek means “power under control”. But this is not a matter of self discipline or anger management techniques. It is humbling ourselves to realize the only power that we truly have comes from the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is not a power that is ours but God given, so we must submit to that same Lord Jesus Christ to use that power for His Glory and not our gain. This is so counter cultural and against every human instinct. That’s the point. In our sinfulness humans will always try to abuse power. Ever heard the saying “Power Corrupts”. Unless we humble ourselves in submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the control of the Holy Spirit in our lives we will never achieve the meekness that Jesus Christ had and the humility that will identify us as Christ followers.

MONDAY, JULY 13TH Matthew 5:4
By Shawn Hammontree
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”- Matthew 5:4

Christian, YOU and I need to get to the point of mourning.  We need to be so in touch with God and His Holy Spirit that even the slightest sin in our lives leads us to mourning and repentance.  And since that is easier said than done, can I encourage you to get alone with God, even today, and quote this verse to God; and as you quote it do so with an attitude of seriousness, reverence, introspection, and transparency.  

“Search me, 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.”

Perhaps it’s time for weeping over our sins.  God has promised that when we are truly heartsick over our sins and then we turn to Him for forgiveness and restoration, we will find comfort in Him.

Again, let me encourage you to make time for some real heart-to-heart with your all knowing Creator.

MONDAY, JULY 6TH Matthew 26:33-35
By Paula McKee
“But Peter said to Him, “Even though all may fall away because of You, I will NEVER fall away.” Jesus said to him, “Truly I say to you that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to die with You, I will NOT deny You.” All the disciples said the same thing too.”- Matthew 26:33-35

Too often, I’m like Peter. “Others” may do X, Y, or Z, but not I...I would NEVER!  Ha! When I recognize that thought, I’m in for a dose of humility.
As my sixteen-year-old pulled out of a store parking lot ahead of me, a big Yukon pulled out behind her, and I pulled out behind the Yukon. I vacillated between prayers and anger over the course of six miles as the SUV tapped its breaks continuously as it tailgated my daughter’s little Versa. When my daughter turned into our neighborhood, I continued behind the Yukon, rehearsing all the angry words I was going to hurl at that person when he or she finally stopped. Have you ever rehearsed the good chewing out you were going to give another person? I was taking great satisfaction in my feeling of superiority and righteousness.  Righteous anger does exist, right? After all, Jesus turned over those tables in the temple! I was justified!

As I parked, God, it could only be Him, humbled me. Had I ever been guilty of tailgating? Absolutely! Could I have been the person in the Yukon in a big hurry? Of course! I prayed for God to give me the words to say. A gentle word truly turned away wrath (Proverbs 15:1).  Imagine the chewing-out scenario and the response that might have elicited.  Instead, I gently asked this grandmother who was in a hurry because she was late picking up her grandchild to be more careful, informing her that she had been endangering my sixteen-year-old and that I had been right behind her the whole way praying, leaving out the angry thoughts part.  The grandmother cried and apologized. We left with good feelings, praising God, and each vowing to be more thoughtful drivers.

Billy Graham said to substitute the word HUMBLE for the word POOR. Blessed are the HUMBLE in spirit. There is not one righteous, no not one (Romans 3:10-12), except for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A little self-examination is a healthy thing.  :)

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for intervening when I am feeling self-righteous. Guide me in my words and actions so that they bring glory to you. In Jesus' holy name I pray, Amen.

TUESDAY, JULY 7TH Matthew 5:5
By Jeff Rice
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”- Matthew 5:5

Jesus bookends this great sermon with the idea that we are completely spiritually bankrupt and without realizing this and putting our faith in him we will not be able to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.  In vs. 5 of Matthew Ch. 5 he says “Blessed (Happy; Content) is the man who realizes they are poor (bankrupt; insufficient) in spirit.  In the last part of Ch. 7 he tells the parable of the wise and foolish man.  The wise man understands that he must build on the Solid Rock (Jesus) while the foolish man believes he can build on the sand (his righteousness).  It reminds me of an old hymn we would sing:
"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness, I dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly lean on Jesus’ name. When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace, In every high and stormy gale my anchor holds within the veil. HIS oath, HIS covenant (promise), HIS blood, support me in the overwhelming flood, When all around my soul gives way, He then is ALL my hope and stay. When He shall come with trumpet sound, oh may I then in Him be found, In Him my righteousness, alone, faultless to stand before the throne.  On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand all other ground is sinking sand."

WEDNESDAY, July 8th
Praising God Through the Alphabet  by Paulette Herring

This past Sunday our Pastor challenged us to think of a word that described God using each letter of the alphabet.  Here is an example of such a list.  Let me challenge you to think of a list of your own.

A-Amazing   B-Blessing   C-Creator   D-Defender   E-Exalted
F-Father   G-Great   H-Holy   I-Incredible   J-Just   K-King
L-Loving   M-Master   N-Noble   O-Omnipotent   P-Perfect
Q-Quiet   R-Righteous   S-Savior   T-Teacher   U-Unchanging
V-Victorious   W-Wonderful   X-Excellent   Y-Yaweh
Z-Zealous          Praising God through the Alphabet

THURSDAY, JULY 9TH Matthew 5:3
By Cindy Beckman
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”- Matthew 5:3
 
Those who grew up in 20th century America witnessed much progress brought about by legislation and social change. Most were optimistic that anything could be fixed in our society. After all, we had some of the brightest and most educated minds in the world working on it.
And we still do have great minds at work finding ways to improve our world. But there are some matters that cannot be legislated or changed through social means. They are matters of the heart. We can’t make people love their neighbors and treat others as they should be treated. We can’t make people do right.  But we can point them to Someone who can.
The first step to doing right is being right. That sounds easy enough but really it isn’t. We are all sinners and no amount of going to church or giving to the poor is going to fix that (Romans 3:23)—in you or anyone else. We are all flawed and we ourselves can’t fix that. No amount of legislation or social change will fix it either.

The only one who can is a loving God who sent his Son to die on the cross, becoming the ultimate sacrifice to cover the sins of all mankind—past, present and future. In Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul states this truth—“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not of works, so that no one can boast.”
We are all feeling a little desperate these days but the real change needed is personal and spiritual, not political and social. And that change can only take place when people truly turn to the One who is able, the One who provided a way through his Son.

Prayer: We humbly come before you Lord, acknowledging that we can’t fix ourselves or our nation through our own efforts. We desperately need Your salvation and Your Spirit to heal our hearts and heal our land. 

FRIDAY, JULY 10TH Psalm 51:1-4 (NIV)
Not Me by Chris Blacksmith
“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.  Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.  For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.  Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.”- Psalm 51:1-4

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve put a B.O.L.O. (be on the lookout) for a shady character by the name of Not Me who, in my mind, wants nothing more than to annoy me with their misdeeds.  Conversations with my kiddos through years might have gone something like this:
ME: Who left the empty milk jug in the refrigerator?    Kiddos:  “Not Me”
ME:  Who left the used towel on the floor?     Kiddos:  “Not Me”
ME:  Who left the light on at the little house?  Kiddos:   “Not Me”  
   
It seems as though our culture has a tendency to pass the buck simply to avoid the consequences of our actions.  This really isn’t a new concept seeing how it began in the garden when Adam passed the buck to Eve, who in turn passed it to the serpent.  Thankfully we see an example of true repentance from David, the man after God’s own heart”.  Don’t miss his response after he committed what has become one of the most renowned sins in all of history.  Notice David didn’t say “me and Bathsheba, rather he said, “I know MY transgressions, and MY sin is always before me.  Against you…have I sinned.”  I get the idea that he put true repentance on display with these words.
In order for us to become poor in spirit as David did we will have to lay aside the Not Me declaration and take full responsibility for our actions.  This will require great humility, integrity, and the recognition that apart from God we cannot be rescued from the wages of our sin.  Consider Proverbs 28:13 “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”

MONDAY, JUNE 29TH Matthew 5-7
By Shawn Hammontree

Today I want to offer YOU three challenges.
I challenge YOU…

1. To get alone and quiet.

1. To pray and ask God to open your eyes and heart.

1. To read Matthew chapters 5 thru 7.

Are YOU willing to take these challenges sometime between now and the time you go to bed tonight? Know that I will be praying for YOU as you read the words of the Master of all creation.

TUESDAY, JUNE 30TH Matthew 7:28 (AMP)
“BE-attitudes” by Kerry Stitch
“When Jesus had finished (speaking) these words (on the mountain), the crowds were astonished and overwhelmed at His teaching;”- Matthew 7:28

We are all guilty of giving thought to what we wanted to “BE” when we grew up.  Aside from a few outliers of Ninja, Octopus Trainer, and Dog Food Taster, responses haven’t changed much in the last several years.  (*Imagination Report by Fatherly)                                                                     Jesus plainly answers that question in Matthew 5 with qualities of Christ’s humanity described in the BE-attitudes.  “The first four demonstrate need while the second four focus on giving; thus balancing our blessedness by abiding in Christ’s mindset and modeling.” (The Mind of Christ by Hunt & King)                  
Sadly, in today’s world we might more frequently observe:
Blessed are the selfish, for they seem to get what they want.
Blessed are the loud, for they seem to be heard.
Blessed are the hard-boiled for they appear to be worriless.
Blessed are the arrogant, for they seldom see beyond their mirror.

Yet the Bible offers the Christ-like attributes we would be wise to follow:
Blessed are those who realize their spiritual poverty and turn to God.
Blessed are those who accept life and their own limitations.
Blessed are those who are real/ compassionate in their thoughts and feelings.                                 Blessed are those who help others to live together peaceable.                                                      

Perhaps, wondering what we will grow up to “be” has already been revealed.  Maybe we find in life what we want to find, what we seek, and what consumes our time and money.  What we choose to “BE-come” is a path of decisions made daily that projects our journey.  Maybe it’s as easy as 180 degrees…which direction are you headed; toward God or away from him? Let’s face it…our days even in Covid times are not static.  Check you divine compass and turn toward God. You will end up “BE-ing” in the happily ever after of His story for you.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1ST Matthew 5:38-42
By Nita Kay Freeman
“You have heard that it was said, ‘eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’  but I tell you, do not resist an evil person.  If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.  And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.  If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.  Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”- Matthew 5:38-42

Jason read us the Sermon on the Mount!  It’s been years since I read that passage in its entirety.  There is so much great material in this 3 chapter passage.  One of my favorite parts is when Jesus spoke about building your house upon the rock.  It takes me back to my vacation bible school days . . . “the wiseman built his house upon the rock…”, but the verses above are what really stepped on my toes.  I’m loyal to the core.  I will do anything for my friends and family.  They are the WORLD to me.  But, when it gets hard for me is when I am betrayed or worse yet, when one of my loved ones is betrayed!  When I researched this scripture, I found this -- “What Jesus asks of His followers is not passivity, but surrender of the right to personal revenge.”  Jesus isn’t telling us to allow others to take advantage of us or walk over us, he is asking us to humble ourselves for the kingdom of God and instead of getting even, we need to do the opposite!  There are about 3 people in this world that I truly struggle with (just being honest here).  As I read about the Sermon on the Mount and dive into the above scripture, I see that although human nature is to seek the emotional satisfaction of revenge on those who have wronged us or our loved one.  In Matthew 5:22-23, Jesus makes it clear that not only outward murder, but inward hatred is subject to God’s judgment.  As I struggle to break free from these feelings, I pray that God will take them away and remind me that I must give up personal vengeance altogether and realize that that belongs to my heavenly Father.

THURSDAY, JULY 2ND Matthew 5:14
By Terri Smith
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”- Matthew 5:14

If asked, most of us could point out someone who we knew were "putting on a front". Sometimes it's done to not let a loved one or friend know about a serious health condition. Other times it is because they don't want their "real self" to show. Whether it be to cover up something or to maybe fit in to a specific group.  None of these are good reasons to be someone other than your real self. We do not need to "try" to be anyone else but who God made us to be.
My entire growing up school years were spent wanting to be "like someone else" so, believe me I know how miserable it can be, But Praise God, his love and saving grace is what has helped me accept who I am, now In Christ.
As in the Sermon on the Mount, the only way we can be, ourselves and what the Lord calls us to be is if we are Right in what we are doing.   Our character plays a big part in this and sometimes we don't have to say or do a thing. People who watch us, and believe it or not, you are being watched (boy what a scary thought that is)!.
If we are consistently in the Word we can rest assured that the Lord will lead us on the straight and narrow. All we are required to do is to pay attention to Him and his leading.
I am so grateful for this truth.  I am trying daily to seek Him in all I do and say. Won't you join me? We can't be right, as Bro. Jason said, until we allow Jesus to help us be ourselves, then and only then can Jesus do a work in us!

Father, I thank you for all you've done for me, especially for helping me accept who I am.  I pray you will help others to realize that the only way they can be who you've called them to be is through you.

FRIDAY, JULY 3RD Matthew 6:25-27
By Toya Aultman
 “Therefore I tell you, stop being worried or anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted) about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, as to what you will wear. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap the harvest nor gather the crops into barns, and yet your heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they? And who of you by worrying can add one hour to the length of his life?”- Matthew 6:25-27

For many of us, worrying about what we are going to wear has not been much of an issue these past few months. The last few months it's been simply yoga pants and a tee, and that was only if we chose to get out of our pajamas. If you were like me you worried more about what you were going to eat, because all the restaurants were closing.
The fact is, many of us just tend to worry about stuff that has absolutely no eternal significance at all. I have friends that dress in the latest styles with all the expensive name brands and I have friends that dress from shopping garage sales and Goodwill. And you know what? Both groups love Jesus and love others!
Now don't get me wrong, I love cute clothes, and shoes (according to the preacher man's sermon), and jewelry, and purses, but I really don’t worry much about it all anymore. It doesn't matter if I have Louis Vuitton on my body, if I don't have Jesus Christ in my heart.

Father, keep me focused on the eternal. Please take away the worries the
enemy throws at me and keep my heart, mind and soul focused on You and
Your Kingdom. Amen.

MONDAY, JUNE 22ND Acts 3:6
By Cindy Beckman
But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you.  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!- Acts 3:6

A crippled man was being carried each day to sit by the gate of the temple so he could ask for alms of those entering the temple.  Religious people were passing him daily, responding to his requests for a coin or two until the day Peter and John came by.  Instead of giving him what he thought he needed—a coin or two—they gave him what he really needed—healing that could only come in the name of Jesus Christ.  
We as a society frequently look for treatments and vaccines as well as government and laws to cure what ails us.  We think and say, “If only there was a vaccine for COVID-19.  If only the government could make people behave themselves and treat others the way they should be treated.  If only people had enough so that they would never be hungry.”  We want someone to fix problems and lives so that they are better.
But all these fixes are temporary, not eternal.  They may treat the symptom but not the root problem—and government or doctors can’t fix that.  The root problem can only be fixed through Jesus Christ—who not only gave His life for our sins but also changes hearts, replacing hate with love and forgiveness, replacing selfishness with selflessness, generosity and kindness.
Maybe as a society, it’s time to change our focus.  We need to look to the One who has the power to fix what is broken.  We need to look to the One who can change hearts.  And we as Christians need to do as Peter and John did that day for the crippled man.  Share with those around us what is needed rather than just what is wanted—Jesus.
Prayer:  We pray the prayer of Peter in Acts 4:29-30:  “Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.  Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”  

Final thought:  See the following verse-Acts 4:31-After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken.  And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

TUESDAY, JUNE 23RD Acts 2:22, 2:36
Focus on Jesus by Paulette Herring
After the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost entered the house where the people were sitting, Peter got up to address the crowd. "Fellow Israelites, listen to this:  Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through Him as you yourselves know."- Acts 2:22 NIV.
You took this man and with the help of wicked men put Him to death by nailing Him to a cross.  But God raised Him from the dead. "Therefore let all Israel be assured of this:  God made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah."  Acts 2:36 NIV.

When the people heard this, they became very upset and asked Peter what to do?  "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, ask forgiveness of your sins and receive the Holy Spirit."
 About 3000 accepted this message and were baptized and became members of the very first church that day.
What is your focus today?  Is your focus on Jesus or is it on other things?  
Commit to Jesus today just as these people did in the very first church on the day of Pentecost.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24TH Ephesians 4:20-24 (NIV)
Like Father Like Son by Chris Blacksmith

“That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”- Ephesians 4:20-24

What exactly does the phrase “like father like son” mean?  It often expresses the likeness between parents and children.  I’m sure we all possess some form of thought, behavior, or quality that our parents displayed while we were in our youth.  In essence we render the likeness of our parents.  According to Ephesians 4:24 the same is to be said regarding our relationship with the Lord.  We are in fact commanded to abstain from living like those who are without Christ.  Why is that? It doesn’t take long to look around our world and see what lawlessness does to an individual, a community, a country, a world.  The world has “lost all sensitivity” the world has indulged, “in every kind of impurity” and the world is, “full of greed”.  The problems of society aren’t going away because so many people are without Christ, and so many who are with Christ aren’t sharing His love to those who need it most.  Let’s resolve to be a generation who strives to be less like the world and more like the father so it may be said of us that we're like father like son.  

THURSDAY, JUNE 27TH John 10:27-28 (NIV)
Marks of True Friendship
By Chris Blacksmith
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.  I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”- John 10:27-28

I can’t help but recognize the deep seated contempt that the Jewish people displayed toward God over and over again.  The preceding verses in this chapter are evidence of that.  I find it hard to believe that they had the living God living among them; he performed unexplainable miracles yet they still didn’t believe.  All I can say is WOW!  But wait, how are we any different?  God has moved in my life in ways I can’t begin to express yet I still show contempt. It makes me wonder:  What kind of a friend am I to the Lord?  That’s easy- a horrible one. Yep I said it I’m a horrible friend. How do I know that? I have taken time to compare myself to verse 27 and have found that I miss the mark.  Here are the marks of true friendship with regards to Christ.   1.) True friendship is evidenced by how well we listen to Him.  2.) True friendship is evidenced by how well we are known by Him.  3.) True friendship is evidenced by how well we follow Him.    One of the greatest examples of a person who portrayed these marks is Jeremiah.  He faithfully warned the people of Judah for 40 years, and for 40 years his words fell on deaf ears.  They ended up in exile for 70 years.  Later God told Jeremiah to buy a piece of land which was a sign of His pending forgiveness.  Once again Jeremiah was obedient. Could you imagine what our world would be like if our relationship with Jesus possessed the marks of a true friend?  Make it your goal to regularly hear from the Lord, be known better by Him, and obediently follow Him.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26TH Acts 4:20
By  Jeff Rice
“As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”- Acts 4:20

This verse is so convicting to me.  Peter and John were being told to be silent and stop teaching and preaching in the name of Jesus Christ.  Here is theit response, “...we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”  Not witnessing about Jesus Christ was not an option for them.  They were compelled to speak about what they had experienced with Jesus Christ.  If you read a few verses earlier the Pharisee’s noted that they were courageous even though they were unschooled, ordinary men.  But it was obvious that they had been with Jesus.
The reason this is so convicting is I fall so short of this in my own life.  I can find so many other things to talk about with other people, but so often when the opportunity arises I lack the courage to testify about what I have experienced in Christ.  Lots of time I use the excuse of I just want be able to intellectually answer all their questions and doubts.  But, Peter and John did not let that deter them.  They were ordinary men filled with the Holy Spirit and filled with the courage that the Holy Spirit provides to speak about what they had seen and heard.  The true need for all people is their need for a savior.  Romans 10 says how can the lost call on the one they have not believed, how can they believe if they have not heard, and how can they hear without someone telling them?  God give me the Spirit’s courage so that I can say with Peter and John, I cannot help but speak about what I have experienced with Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.

MONDAY, JUNE 15TH Acts 1:8 (NIV)
By Cindy Beckman
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”- Acts 1:8

The hate and disrespect in recent days is but a flagrant reminder that we are all flawed. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). Government legislation can’t fix that and we can’t change the hearts of others either. But I know who can. Accepting God’s gift of salvation—that His Son died for our sins and rose triumphant of over sin and death—is more than just a gift that keeps us from escaping an eternal life in hell. God also gives us His Spirit.
As a Christian, I will not ever become perfect while living on this earth. I will try to become better but I will still make mistakes. Even the great kings of the Old Testament like David and Solomon—who had God’s hand on them and were chosen to lead—were not perfect and struggled.
The good news is that when you accept God’s gift of salvation, when you become a Christian, you don’t have to do life alone. And the Spirit also helps us in our weaknesses (Romans 8:26). His Spirit empowers, prepares and equips us. God is a God of the living and the purpose of the Resurrection is that we not continue to live as we did but live a new life with the help of the Holy Spirit. He can transform hearts and lives.
In Matthew 22, Jesus said the greatest commandments are 1) Love the Lord your God with all our heart, with all your soul and with all your mind and     2) You shall love your neighbor as yourself. His Holy Spirit can help you obey these commandments. His Spirit can change hearts and replace hate with love.
Prayer: God help us as Christians to share this message of how hearts and lives can be transformed by your redemptive mercy and grace. We are Your witnesses. Help us have the courage to speak this message to the ends of the earth. You are the solution to the chaos.

TUESDAY, JUNE 16TH 1 Peter 3:15 (Life Application Bible)
Hot Water Can Cause Shrinkage by Kerry Stitch
“Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord and if anyone asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell him, and do it in a gentle and respectful way.”- 1 Peter 3:15

Chaos is rampant, turbulent, and intimidating.  DON’T SHRINK!!!  Your testimony is a gift from God to be boldly shared with compassion and humility.  No doubt, we would be deliberate and eager in sharing a possible cure for Covid19 with others, so why do we hesitate testifying to the Good News of Jesus which provides an eternal cure?
Thankfully, I haven’t spent much time in courtrooms other than field trips with fifth graders, but it’s readily apparent that “testimony” is a form of evidence that is obtained from a witness as to what they know.  As we are daily called to the stand of life, how do we testify to our own Jesus encounter and provide evidence of his influence in our case?
Effective Christians aren’t Lone Rangers!  They understand that connection is risky, but SO worth it!  Love demands abiding and belonging which tends to get messy at times.  It’s as simple and complicated as relationships worth fighting for.  There’s no better example of an “ALL IN” kind of person than Jesus!  To reflect His image and to testify of his attributes is to choose to be vulnerable, devoted, and authentic.  Billy Graham states, “If you give it to God, He transforms your test into a testimony, your mess into a message, and your misery into a ministry.”  So, expect the heavenly sculpting that holy sandpaper applied to your attitudes and actions produces.  The friction might just illuminate the Cross and extinguish the chaos!

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17TH Hebrews 12:1-2
By Nita Kay Freeman
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”- Hebrews 12:1-2

Jason talked about the church and how so many try to tear it down.  He said “as long as there is fight in our body, we need to keep talking about Jesus”.  Before the sermon, the worship team sang one of my favorite songs that says “through it all, my eyes are on you, through it all it is well.”  Now, that is CHURCH to me!  Through all of this chaos and disaster that surrounds us and seems to be growing by the day, it is WELL, if our eyes are on JESUS!  Isn’t that the secret?  Isn’t that the only way?  I know it’s the only way that I get through my day EVERYDAY, especially THESE days!  LOOK TO JESUS!  In the above scripture, it references the race that is set before us.  When I researched that verse, I found comparisons between the race that we are running as Christians and a physical race.  I can promise you, I don’t know a lot about a physical race, because I haven’t run one in, well, ever!  But, I have heard from my running friends that you have to keep your eyes focused on the finish, not on the race itself.  Isn’t that true with this spiritual race . . . Jesus is the finish!  He is the only way!  In protecting our family, protecting our country, protecting our CHURCH, we must always keep our eyes on JESUS.  Then, and only then, through it all it is well!

THURSDAY, JUNE 18TH Isaiah 43:10
By Terri Smith
“You are My witnesses,” says the Lord, “and My servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He.” - Isaiah 43:10

Words, not just words but “our” words, I’m not sure I have ever really thought about my words and how important they are.
In this week’s sermon Bro. Jason shared about how important they are. He also shared how as pastor he is “supposed” to say the right things, witness and lead others to Christ.
I’ve thought of this a lot during my time in the ministry, about how the pastor is supposed to do these things because he gets paid to do it…you see, I’ve been there, in the active pastorate, that is, and I know how people think.. But what they are missing is, how important ”they, themselves”  are and how important their words are.  I don’t know if you realize this but as important as our pastor is, people are often more receptive to you and I when we “live and talk” the church.  As I said earlier, Bro. Jason shared with us how people think, “well that’s his job”, and it is, but let me insert this. The ministry is a calling not just a job. In saying this it doesn’t make our position as church members any less important.
We also heard Sunday morning how the Israelites were filled to the brim with the Holy Spirit. When is the last time that we have felt like we were filled to the brim and ready to go out and witness?  It all starts with spending time in the word and with the Father.
Let us use this message as a springboard to encourage us to dedicate our life and words to the Lord and be ready for opportunities the Lord provides…and remember. The Lord will not call you to do something that he doesn’t enable you to do!
Father, Thank you for being so patient with us as we continue to learn our importance in your kingdom. Help us to open ourselves up to you each and every day.  In your name I pray, Amen!!!

FRIDAY, JUNE 19TH Acts 2:42
By Toya Aultman
"They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." - Acts 2:42

If you are like me, you have quit scrolling social media. Sure, I'll go on there and share pictures or something, but the good old days of scrolling and enjoying are long gone. I just can't handle the hate, the negative comments, the arguments...and realize the major majority of my "friends" claim to be Christians.
I wonder if Acts 2:42 was written today if it would sound more like "They devoted themselves to teachings of the Truth, encouraging social media posts during pandemic days, social distanced fellowships and their knees were sore from praying for their hurting world."
So how are you doing? Are you listening to only truth, the Word of God? You can't take part of the Bible and align it to how you want to live, but you have to align how you live to the Bible. Do you share social media posts before fact checking it to the Word of God? Do you encourage and share Jesus to those hurting ones living in sin or do you condemn and spew hate, ready to stand as judge and jury? Are you making efforts to share in fellowship with others? In past pandemics that would have been hard, but the Jetsons' life we are living in makes it real easy.
And how about those knees? Are they sore from spending time in prayer? Are you praying for that family member who drives you up the wall? How about the neighbor who has the dog that never quits barking? Are you praying for those you don't agree with in life? Are you praying for your church? Your Governor? Your President? Are you praying for God to move His mighty arm across our nation and bring revival? Oh Children of God, may we realize that praying is our response to God's ability!
Father God, we realize we are living in a dark and hurting world. Continue to pour Your Light into us that we may share Your Name with our corner of the world. Amen.

MONDAY, JUNE 8TH  John 14:15-17
Faithfulness by Paula McKee
 
 “If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” - John 14:15-17

Crazy fear overtakes us: lack of resources, awkward social or job  situations, financial decisions, family conflicts, fear of sickness...  When she was small, my daughter was afraid of storms, but it amazed me when she prayed to accept Christ as her Savior one evening at GMA camp and then went running with other girls across a large field from the meeting room to the bunk house while lightning played across the sky. She would not have done that before that night. I believe she had the peace of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised that “another advocate” would help us. He helps me with my fears and empowers me to do what I cannot do on my own. I want all to know his power, so I will do my best to “keep [his] commands” by loving God and loving others (Matthew 22: 37-39).
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of the life of your son and his sacrifice for my salvation. I love you God. Please strengthen me when I am weak. Calm my fears so that I might do your will in all situations. In Jesus’ holy name I pray. Amen.

TUESDAY, JUNE 9TH Acts 2:14
By Jeff Rice
“Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd:” - Acts 2:14

Pastor Jason talked about as we come out of this intermission as a church and with all the chaos going around that we as believers need to renew our commitment to the Great Commandment: Love the Lord God and Love our Neighbor.  I completely agree with this message, but we have to ask ourselves for what purpose.  Why do we Love God with all our heart and love our neighbor as we love ourselves?  Just because God commanded it? Yes that is definitely a reason, but it goes farther.  It is for the purpose of supporting the Gospel message.  It is hard to tell people about God’s love if we are not practicing the love of God in our lives, but I also believe the Bible makes it very clear that it’s not just enough to love God and love others.  Paul tells us in Romans 10 “faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”  Pentecost was an amazing day in the life of the Church, so much so that 3,000 came to faith in Christ on that one day!  But it wasn’t enough for the church to wait and pray, it wasn’t enough for the believers to be indwelled with the Spirit, it wasn’t enough for the believers to demonstrate signs and miracles.  It wasn’t until Paul stood up, raised his voice, addressed the crowd, and shared with them the Good News of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ that people were moved.   It says in vs. 41 of Chapter 2 of Acts that “those that accepted his message were baptized and about 3,000 were added to their number that day.”  Yes we must renew our commitment to the Great Commandment, but it has to be expressed in a renewed commitment to the Great Commission.  “Go and Make Disciples ….” Then and only then will the true Church of the Lord Jesus Christ be able to turn the world rightside up!

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10TH John 13:34-35
By Toya Aultman
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” - John 13:34-35

The marching orders from Jesus have not changed. We are to love God and love others. Jesus didn't tell us to just love those like us, as in same political party, same skin color, same income bracket, same church affiliation, etc. but to LOVE GOD and LOVE OTHERS. Looking at the world today, it almost seems like Fear has won. Malice has won. Racism has won. Hate has won. Sin has won. And sadly for a large portion of the population they see that as okay. It’s a dog eat dog world, every man for himself. But like the song says, "fear, he is a liar". So are malice, racism and hate, because the king of lies is behind it all.
It’s time to rise up Church of God! We've read the back of the book, we know Who wins! This world will never mandate love, we have to model it. This world cannot come up with enough laws to make this a loving world, we have to show them real love. We possess what this world is aching for, groaning for, begging for...that is the hope found in the precious name of Jesus! As Jason challenged us, when the all clear is given, the marching orders have been given, let's move!!
Father God, our hearts are breaking from all the fear and hate in this world today. Renew within us a passion for You and a love toward others. Amen.

THURSDAY, JUNE 11TH Acts 1:4 (NIV)
Waiting by Paulette Herring
“Jesus gave this command to the disciples," Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about." - Acts 1:4

We are not the only ones waiting, the disciples did too.  If you came to church Sunday, you had three services to choose from; 8:30 anybody, the other two services divided by the alphabet. Social distancing could be done this way, also time in between to sanitize.  I guess you could say this is the new normal, right now at least. Some of us are still waiting to attend.
Acts 2:1-2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
So the disciples had been waiting after Jesus had returned to heaven.   Jesus told them to wait, do not leave Jerusalem till the Spirit comes. They were praying, training, preparing, maybe in isolation for the Spirit. Acts 2:3-4 they saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.  All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. All of the people there could understand in their own language! Their intermission was over. The disciples had waited and when it was time to move, they did!
So maybe our intermission is about over.  The church can lead the way and show the world that Jesus is love

MONDAY, JUNE 1ST Acts 1:10-11
By Terri Smith
“And while they were gazing into heaven, as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes. And said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." - Acts 1:10-11
I think the disciples had gotten comfortable knowing they had Jesus with them, and knowing who he is, they would be safe and protected.
 Isn't this the way we are?  As a child, I remember, now having looked back, never being fearful because my momma and daddy were right there to protect my brother and I. However, as an adult it's a horse of a different color! Sometimes I feel like I'm on my own, especially if things kinda change from the norm.
So goes today, we are uncertain, with the corona virus looming. But, just as the Lord assured, the disciples, Joseph, David Nehemiah and others, we are in good hands. God is still in control, no matter the circumstances.. As Jesus told his followers, I will leave someone with you, he did that for us as well.
 
  We are no different. Jesus has left the Holy Spirit for us too!  But we must remember God is still in control, so, in this our "intermission," let us live life in the moment and to its fullest all the while seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance.
  Father God, Life is so uncertain, whether it be corona virus, our unusual day to day hiccups, help us to never doubt, despite how or when we pray we may not feel anything, like the song, YOU SAY, sung so beautifully today.  You are there and will never leave us or forsake us.  In your precious name I pray Amen

TUESDAY, JUNE 2ND Psalm 37:7
By Nita Kay Freeman
 
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices.”- Psalm 37:7

Covid-19 has been quite an experience.  Weddings have been postponed or altered, Funerals haven’t been able to happen, Church services have been online only.  It’s been just plain weird.  These examples I just mentioned have been the bad effects of the pandemic. But, for my family, there have been a few good things that have come from it.  We have gone from 2 living in our house to 6.  It’s been interesting to say the least, but it has given us time to pause.  We are cooking and eating together more, we have played games, watched movies together.  I think we will all look back at this time as precious.  It has caused us to PAUSE.  I would like to share this quote that I found:  “In the rush and noise of life, as you have intervals, step home within yourselves and be still.  Wait upon God and feel HIS good presence; this will carry you evenly through your day’s business.”  William Penn.  In the uncertainty of today’s world with the pandemic, racism, rioting, violence, it goes on and on, may we be still, may we wait upon GOD and may we feel His good presence, because that is the only thing that is for certain in these uncertain times is that HIS presence is good and if we PAUSE, we will feel it!

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3RD Joshua 24:15 (AMP)
Who are you following? by Kerry Stitch
”Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve …but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”- Joshua 24:15

Noise, desperation, chaos, and conflict have become the heaping portions of our poisoning diets. Daily desperation from all sides can seemingly shrink our minds of possibilities to problem solve or unify efforts. Whether it’s the virus, our isolation, political agendas, or food shortages; social distancing and masks won’t cover shepherdless sheep. Most media outlets marinate us in our inability to solve confusion, calm fears, or target positive and productive energies. Fear can distort holy confrontations with compromise and tolerance, thus kidnapping truth. Be reminded this isn’t new. Ask Nehemiah. He sheds light on how to faithfully navigate unwarranted criticism, extreme discouragement, difficult agendas, and strong personalities. Simply put…it’s who YOU follow! Charles Swindoll states in Hand Me Another Brick, “What the walls were to Jerusalem, our lives are before God.” Have you evaluated your walls lately? Are your personal walls crumbling due to a neglected and insulated heart? If left unattended, those crumbling walls will expose a life aimlessly running on personal fumes with earthly value. Do you find yourself “reacting” or “responding” lately? “Loud” cannot cover the emptiness and confusion around us, and let’s face it…LOUD is everywhere!
Who or what are you “following” these days on social media, Podcasts, and screen time? Are the ingredients you are choosing to add to your recipe of life a combination that will feed your soul? It’s too easy to default to mindless “viewing” when solitude can provide a refreshing replenishment from the Holy Spirit.
Discouragement is a taker. It robs you of confidence, peace, strength, and next right steps and can trade you uncertainty. God has created you distinctively different. It should show. In these days of LOUDNESS, may we choose the insight that the Holy Spirit places in us. If you dare, ask yourself (honestly), “Can others see my Father’s resemblance in me?” Choose and declare your convictions and follow THE Shepherd. You will be in high demand and your value will exceed the noise that surrounds you.

THURSDAY, JUNE 4TH   It’s our Pastor’s BIRTHDAY!  Colossians 4:2
By Toya Aultman
"Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving."-Colossians 4:2

Every week starting March 15, 2020, I've hashtagged my sermon notes. This Sunday was #coronavirussunday12. Twelve weeks. Twelve Sundays we have not met corporately to worship inside our church walls. I remember going the first week and thinking, "Okay, this is weird, but it won't last long". Wrong. The next week, it seemed very weird and I prayed for Jason as he, as well as pastors across the world, had to preach the Word to empty seats. Oh, but not empty hearts!
In this time of waiting, there has been much uncertainty, but so many opportunities! We have seen movie theaters, concert venues, churches, ball fields, department stores and so many other places empty out. We have watched neighborhoods with closed doors and garages open up. We have seen neighbors helping neighbors. We have experienced more family game or movie nights than we have in years and worked more jigsaw puzzles than we thought possible.
Also in this time of waiting, there are people who wouldn't darken the door of a church, but are watching online worship services. In fact, remember Easter 2020? We did that with online services around the world and what did the Online Church Platform report? 70,000 people accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior! They also reported that at least one person from every country on Earth watched/heard the Good News of Jesus that Sunday! Now that is Romans 8:28 in action folks! The church had left the building and what Satan meant for harm, God worked for His good!
Jason said that in the waiting, it’s not meant to be a time of stagnation, but preparation. What is God preparing us for? Another world-wide revival? Perhaps. Maybe to prepare our hearts for His Son's second coming? Oh glorious day!
Whatever God is preparing us for, may we continue to stay alert and work like it all depends on us and focus on prayer, because it truly all depends on God!
Dear Father, we are in crazy days down here. Many are hurting and scared. Help us to remain focused on You keep opening our eyes to ways You can use us to make Your Name famous! Amen

FRIDAY, JUNE 5TH 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)
Renewed Day By Day by Chris Blacksmith

Pandemic! Riots! Political Unrest! Hatred! Fear! Uncertainty! “Oh soul are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There’s light for a look at the Savior And life more abundant and free.  Turn your eyes upon Jesus Look full in His wonderful face and the things of earth with grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”  I was doing my usual reflections for the day and considered the importance of my devotional time.  Warren Wiersbe said, “Spending time with Christ in word and prayer should be an experience to enjoy not an event to endure.”  Possessing a relationship with Christ is paramount thus I can think of nothing that surpasses its influence. One thing I’ve discovered through the years is that as I foster my relationship with the Lord He alters my character. As that has happened I’ve noticed more and more that the world around me seems to have lost its moral compass. Things which were once deemed taboo are now the norm and things which are right and acceptable to the Lord are viewed as divisive and wrong.  Paul said in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, “Therefore we do not lose heart.  Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”  Put your life on pause for a few seconds, especially if you’re wrestling with everything going on, and focus on the promise found in these verses.  God wants to renew you day by day, but that only happens when you spend time with Him.

MONDAY, MAY 25TH John 15:13 (ESV)
The Gift of Self-Sacrifice by Shawn Hammontree
“Greater love has no one than this that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

Memorial Day, it is a day of remembrance.  It is a day where we pause and honor all those who have given their lives for our freedom. Some gave their lives on the battlefield, while others died of diseases while serving.  Each American life was precious, and each one made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. Here are the numbers from every major war in our nation’s history.
4,435- Revolutionary War (1775-1783)
2,260- War of 1812 (1812-1815)
13,283- Mexican-American War (1846-1848)
360,000 (Union), 260,000 (Confederate)- American Civil War (1861-1865)
387- Spanish-American War (1898)
116,708- World War I (1914-1918)
407,316- World War II (1939-1945)
33,651- Korean War (1950-1953)
58,168- Vietnam War (1959-1975)
382- Gulf War (1990-1991)
2,403- War in Afghanistan (2001-present)
Father, today, as we honor those who gave their lives for our nation, we thank You for the freedom You have given us through their sacrifices.  Thank You for allowing us to live in the greatest country the world has ever known.  Please help us to honor their sacrifices by loving this country, loving our fellow Americans, and never taking our freedoms for granted.  Amen.

TUESDAY, MAY 26TH Deuteronomy 10:8, Micah 6:8, & Luke 10:27 (NIV)
By Cindy Beckman
“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord and His statutes, which I command you today for your good?”  (Deuteronomy 10:8)
“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8)
“So, he answered and said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.’”  (Luke 10:27)

During all my years in the classroom, summer breaks were a time to rest after nine months of intense focus on educating the students under my care.  But as the years rolled by, summers became increasingly occupied with professional development workshops focused on making plans for following the state’s course objectives for teaching our particular subject.  In fact, there were even a couple of summers where I met with teachers from across the state to develop and write state Social Studies curriculum frameworks.  Each summer, teachers spend time course correcting to make sure they are teaching toward those objectives.
In these three verses (and in so many others), God gives us a framework to follow in conducting ourselves.  It is very straightforward and looks easy enough to follow but we all need to pause every once in a while to reflect on how we are carrying out these instructions.  We may need to course correct in some areas before moving forward.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for the intermission we have had, the time to rest and spend time with those we love.  Thank You also for this gentle reminder that might also need to use this time to course correct before we move forward into our busy lives again.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27TH 
World Intermission by Paulette Herring

Just as the children of Israel had times of slowing down such as the forty year wandering period before entering the Promised Land, we are now having a time out or intermission.
This virus has caused a major slowing down of activity throughout the whole world.  God has put us all in time out, brought the whole world to a halt.  God is doing something, He is at work, and He has a plan.  He has our attention now and we can look forward and maybe the best is yet to be!
The world has gone from hectic to opposite, pleasant to unpleasant, to isolation, staying at home, waiting.  We get death counts every day as well as how many news cases, worldwide.  How many jobs are lost and how the stock market is doing.
What can we do with all this time?  We can rest, refresh, catch our breath, stretch our legs.  It can be a time of reflection and adjustment, taking stock.  Read the Bible, pray, support each other by calls, notes, e-mails and texts.  Priorities have changed so new schedules and new disciplines are established.
This is a unique season with changed routines, gloves and masks, social distancing, and curbside service for restaurants or delivery.  Have you ever seen this many Amazon or UPS vehicles going up and down your street?
We seem to be moving toward normal again or a new normal!  We have many things to look forward to, maybe with greater appreciation like going to church!
Remember what God can do, tell us to obey, be still, go forward or stop.  Love God, observe His commands and decrees, love and serve Him  
We are here, get ready, we are about to enter the Promised Land!

THURSDAY, MAY 28TH Exodus 16:3
The Wilderness Experience by Paula McKee
“The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” - Exodus 16:3
I had a very brief wilderness experience when I was 8 and three quarters months pregnant 27 years ago, my front driver’s side tire blew out just as I had gotten to the end of the I-430 bridge leaving Little Rock to return to Conway. I pulled off the Interstate to the left and into the grassy median. I had no cell phone, but I DID have a “Call Police” window sign that I had purchased the previous week. An enlisted man from the Air Force Base was driving toward Little Rock, saw me attempting to place the sign in my window, pulled over to help, changed my tire, and had me back on the Interstate in under ten minutes.
When the blowout occurred, rather than praising God for delivering me from a possibly fatal car accident, I was cursing my luck and the inconvenience just as the Israelites failed to see God’s hand in their situation. Oh, poor me!  Then God delivered me from my plight, and life was good again. Now, how did I have the foresight to purchase that sign, and who made that good Samaritan stop to help in my moment of need? God’s provision in the wilderness awes us when we recognize it. Covid 19 has put us in the wilderness. Do we recognize God’s power and provision? It makes a difference in how we handle it. . 
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the perfection of your word and the assurance that I receive there. Help me not to falter in my faith when I find myself in the wilderness. Help me to be more like Jesus in every way. It is in Jesus’s Holy Name I pray.  Amen.

FRIDAY, MAY 29TH Psalm 130:5
By Jeff Rice
“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.”-Psalm 130:5
 I hate to wait!  Nothing gets me going more than to be behind someone while I am driving who is on their phone or standing in line and the person in front of me has to get a price check or figure out their coupons.  What about that the person in the drive through that takes ten minutes to place an order.  AGHHHHHHH!!! I hate to wait.  So pausing the normal routine the last two and a half months and wait for some sort of normalcy to return has been awful.  I’m just going to be honest with you.  I have struggled with being quarantined.  I am an introvert and most of the time I am ok with times of isolation, but the last few weeks have been just ridiculous.  There have been some dark moments with depression and despair. What to do? Is God listening? Does He care?
The Psalmist in Psalm 130 was struggling with depression and despair.  His sin had separated him from God and He is waiting to hear from God once again.  Out of the depths of his despair he cries out to God (vs. 1) and he patiently waits to hear from God (vs. 5).  This season of quarantine is not a result of our personal sin, but it is the result of a sinful fallen world.  Take heart today.  God knows our despair and He has not forgotten or forsaken us.  Trust in the great promises of His Word and wait patiently for Him to deliver.

MONDAY, MAY 18TH John 5:28-29 (NKJV)
The Voice of Reason by Chris Blacksmith

“Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice, and come forth-those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.” John 5:28-29

My first grade year of school was rather traumatic for my parents especially the day I caught the school playground on fire.  I’ll never forget that next afternoon when mom came home from the grocery store minus the groceries.  She all but flew up the alley to the house and burst through the back gate hollering my name (all three of them), which for obvious reasons was never a good thing.  Time, in my opinion, stopped while I stood there, as George Strait puts it, “on those tremblin’ knees and waitin’ for the worst,” Everyone within earshot knew I had done something wrong because mom’s voice was that of disdain and disappointment.  Needless to say I was in BIG trouble. It’s a scene that forever stands as a reminder that the decisions I make today can have lasting effects well into my future. Much like my first grade experience there will be a time when we will hear a voice calling our name.  This voice will come with a greater consequence for our actions. It will also have lasting effects into our eternity.  Let me encourage you today to listen to the voice of reason, it’s a voice that is like none other.  This voice is calling you to a relationship with Jesus Christ, the name which is above every name.  For it’s at this very name that every knee will bow before, and it’s at this very name that every tongue will declare as Lord. The decision is ours to make though.  We can listen to the voice of reason today and accept him on this side of eternity where we will hear him and be raised to life in eternity, or we can wait and accept him after it’s too late and be raised to judgment.  My prayer is that you will listen to the voice of reason today.  

TUESDAY, MAY 19TH Matthew 25:46 (AMP)
“Used” (In the Best Sense of the Word) by Kerry Stitch
“Then they will go away into eternal punishment, but those who are just and upright and in right standing with God into eternal life.” Matthew 25:46

Rewind with me for a moment to those schoolyard recess days when you raced to be first on the teeter totter only to later experience being slammed to the ground when the other kid jumped off. Ouch! Talk about getting your attention on your backside and checking the stability of your dental fillings…it was jarring to say the least.  Too bad we don’t experience the spiritual version of this very often.  When was the last time you found yourself unbalanced, jarred, and uneasy for someone else’s station in life…specifically their unbelief?  Did it take you back?  Does it prompt a response worthy of your immediate attention?  Difficult conversations matter…eternally!    
C.S. Lewis states in Mere Christianity, “It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the next world that they have become so ineffective in this one.”  That’s a label no one wants to be assigned, “ineffective.”  Jesus practiced the sacred discipline of seeing people.  How’s your “sight” these days?  When we relate to unbelievers, do we adopt the wisdom of Barry Corey, (Good Faith), in revealing “soft edges and firm centers?”  Remember the woman at the well?  Softness allows closeness, humility, and connection.  Firmness denotes truth, experience, and facilitation of a desired outcome.  When aided by the Holy Spirit our lives seek to understand “other” viewpoints, and to breathe the life of Jesus across divides and differences.  Its purpose is to reveal the reality of an eternal heaven and hell and the impact of our choices.  Don’t be tempted to look away, or to avoid the difficult conversations, extreme lifestyles, or past experiences. If we lose evangelism, we might just need to call it a hospitality committee. We have all been in our own share of ditches, but we don’t have to stay on a path that detours heaven if we choose to travel in His footsteps.  Truly, Jesus is an earthly heart transformer and eternal destination changer.  That’s shouldn’t be a secret we keep private, but a solution we are eager to share publicly.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20TH Daniel 12:2-3
By Nita Kay Freeman

“Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.  Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” Daniel 12:2-3

When Shawn talked about those that say “I don’t believe in a God that would punish someone by sending them to hell”, I can’t even relate to that.  I have been so blessed in my life.  I grew up in a family that made sure I attended church and bible study, I went to a Christian University, I married a Christian from a Christian family.  We agreed our children needed to be in church and raised with God in the forefront.  Did we fail at times?  Of course, but we never questioned who God was or if there was a heaven or hell!  I have encountered those throughout my life that don’t believe in heaven or hell, but I have always stood strong in my belief!  I was saved at the age of 8 during Vacation Bible School.  I was wearing blue pajamas and my mom let me listen to my Gaither 8-track on my orange stereo until late that night.  (I think I just showed my age).  But I know that there are those that have not been as fortunate.  As I was reading about the above scripture, I read “God has chosen to bring about the salvation of the chosen ones by means of suffering”.  He delivers some FROM suffering, but he also delivers some THROUGH suffering.  The righteous do not receive their full reward in this life.  Are YOU ready to claim your reward at the Father’s feet in heaven?  Are YOU ready to dodge the gates of hell and spend a life of worship and celebration on the streets of gold?  Are YOU ready for the death of your earthly body?  Are YOU ready to meet Jesus face to face?  Be ready!  The day is coming!  ETERNAL LIFE IS REAL!  It’s your choice, make the right one!

THURSDAY, MAY 21ST Luke 16:24
By Terri Smith
“Then he cried and said Father 'Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.” Luke 16:24

I know I have never been in a situation where I was tormented! Yeah, yeah, we can all say we were tormented by our siblings!
At least we felt like we were and even in adulthood, there might be in situations that we feel like we were and maybe even the present. Webster's Dictionary defines "torment" as extreme pain or anguish of body or mind".
The first thought that comes to mind is Jesus as he suffered on the cross. all on our behalf. Praise the Lord.
Let's take this one step further and think of our daily lives. I know for a fact that I have coworkers that I do not know about their thoughts of salvation, not to mention hell!
I have never given much thought to how awful that place would be, but if we would think about Bro. Shawn's sermon, it's hard not to think of it- especially the scripture in Luke 16.  Can you imagine? One drop of water satisfying you... AH, not me!  And maybe not you, as I go with a large cup of  water to drink all day long.
I say all this, to say, people are so thirsty for the gospel, but they don't realize what it is they need, unless we tell them.
Maybe if we revisit this scripture, and Bro. Shawn's message, it will give us the courage to speak out to those allowed to be in our paths. Of course, putting ourselves in the place of Lazarus, couldn't hurt any either.
Father, please help me to be always open and praying for your guidance and help us reach out with the gospel, to those in need
In your precious name we pray, and everybody said...AMEN!

FRIDAY, MAY 22ND  2 Corinthians 6:2
By Toya Aultman
“God says, “At the right time I heard your prayers. On the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you that the “right time” is now, and the “day of salvation” is now.” 2 Corinthians 6:2

We hear much about frontline workers during this pandemic we find ourselves in. People out there working to help others in ways God has equipped them. Whether it’s in hospitals, grocery stores, pharmacies, truck drivers, and many other jobs they find themselves on the frontlines to take care of others, often putting their own health at risk. Aren't we all thankful for them? I know I certainly am!  Shawn brought up another frontline worker Sunday...the Christian.
Children of God, if you've read the back of The Book, then you know the end of the story. You may also believe, we're closing in on those final chapters. The end of this world is coming, Jesus will return and take His bride (the church) home to Heaven. Just as sure as Heaven is a reality for the believer, Hell is a reality for the unbeliever. An awful, terrible, tormenting reality for those who don't put their faith in Jesus. God will give us plenty of second chances, He desires to have us all in Heaven with Him. It’s my choice. It’s your choice. And once death comes, or that glorious day of Jesus' return happens, all chances are done. May we be quick to share the Good News of what Jesus has done for us to those around us. It’s time to be a frontline worker, not to save people from Covid-19, but to introduce them to the Healer of the worst disease out there...sin.

Father, send Your Spirit daily to convict me and urge me to tell of You and Your Son to others. May every word and deed done be to Your honor and Your glory and to make Your Name known to this world! Amen.

MONDAY, MAY 11TH Romans 8:35-39 (NKJV)
Struggle Well by Chris Blacksmith
 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: ‘for your sakes we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.’ Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.  For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35-39

Antioch seniors of 2020 were highlighted in a tribute video this week.  In case you missed it there was a very short yet profound charge at the end: “Struggle Well”.  Simple right?  Think again!  We all face struggles on a daily basis, some struggle to get up in the morning, some struggle with finances, some struggle with relationships, some struggle with mourning the loss of a loved one, and as of late we are struggling the loss of some of our freedoms.  Truth be told though, they don’t add up to the root of all struggles which is sin.  The struggle of sin is so powerful and deadly that we can’t overcome it alone.  So I ask you, “is the real struggle really hitting home these days?” Take heart because you’re not alone.  That’s right YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Contrary to what you may think or feel you have hope, you have assistance, you have the victory.  God promised us that we are, “more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
What does that mean? First of all it means the effects of sin have been conquered, secondly it means that as we face the daily struggles of life such as loneliness, financial ruin, loss, heartache, and even death that we have the ability to rise above the ashes of such defeat and be met with victory through our loving God who assures us we are not alone.  Sometimes He may remove the problems in our life while other times He may guide us and give us His grace through it.  Either way be encouraged today and every day, and know:
1) You will encounter struggles  {especially with sin}      
2) God is in your corner and wants to see you through it
3) You can rise above the struggle victoriously with His help
A close relationship with God will allow you to have assurance, strength, and the victory.  It will also ensure that you will struggle well.

TUESDAY, MAY 12TH Romans 8:28 (NIV)
By Cindy Beckman
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

I could share many stories of this truth but a more recent one is perhaps the clearest example of God at work for good in our lives.  On January 31, my Mom fell while removing Dad’s breakfast tray at rehab.  By this time, Dad had been either in the hospital or rehab for nearly two months.  She had been going daily to help care for him, often leaving home each day before sunrise.

What we initially thought would be some soreness and bruising turned out to be a busted right elbow and left knee.  The orthopedic doctor did two surgeries on a Sunday morning and after four days, Mom went back to rehab as a patient, in an adjoining room with Dad.  She couldn’t even get up by herself, much less help Dad.  

It was a tough time and Dad was getting worse.  He soon went back to the hospital for 11 days, came back for a short period and then went again to the hospital for six days, only to have the doctors say that they could do nothing more to help him.  He returned to rehab under Hospice care but we had barely filled out the paperwork when the rehab went on lockdown.  Mom was still there, now able to at least wheel herself over to help Dad during his last days.  What seemed like an untimely and unfortunate accident allowed her to be there for her husband of nearly 62 years instead of being locked out.

Prayer:  Thank you God that you are in control of all things and that all things do work together for good for your children.  

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13TH Acts 8:1-4 (ESV)
By Shawn Hammontree
“And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.  Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him.  But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison. Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.” Acts 8:1-4

Saul hated what Stephen and these “followers of the way”, (what Jesus’ followers were first called), stood for and was preaching. It was offensive to him and his strict religious views.  To think that a man, who claimed to be God, could actually make people holy and righteous to God apart from any doings on their part was totally wrong.  It was even blasphemous!  Saul, a strict follower of all the Law of Moses, would have none of this teaching; he would stamp it out.  Death is what the followers of this Jesus deserved, and he would personally lead the charge!
Do you think you are beyond the love and reach of God?  Do you think you have sinned too much?  Do you think you have drifted too far?  Do you think there is no way God would accept you?  Oh, friend, Jesus was still boldly proclaimed after Stephen’s death.  His followers knew how Jesus loves each and every one and they fearlessly continued to speak his truth to all who would listen.  And soon thereafter this Saul met the Savior too and he was forever changed.  A murderous, self-righteous, hater of Christ became one of his most devoted followers.  Old Saul became a new Paul.
Stephen is the epitome of the Spirit’s power in the face of persecution.  And Paul is the epitome of the Spirit’s power in the face of a sinner in desperate need of rescue.  Praise God!  The power that was there for Stephen, and the grace that was there for Saul, (Paul), is still that same power and grace that is available for us today!  (No wonder those early followers “went about preaching the word”.  It was good news that needed to be shared!)

THURSDAY, MAY 14TH
Mother's Day by Paulette Herring

Sunday, May 10, was Mother's Day.  A mother's love is like no other innate, very strong, and unconditional. No one loves you like your mother. It might be next to Jesus' love for us.  This can be a happy day or a sad and difficult day if you have recently lost your mother.  For a lot of us our mothers are already in heaven and we are comforted to know they are safe.
We have been reading Romans chapter 8 each day for a couple of weeks now.  Have you memorized it yet?  One of my friends is reading it in a different translation each day.  For a lot of us Romans 8:28 NIV is a favorite verse and we probably do have it memorized.  “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”  Romans 8:31 NIV,  “If God be for us, who can be against us?”  Verse 32 continues, “He who did not spare his own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things.”
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, not the world, it has nothing for us.  He has life abundant and free for us and life everlasting.  Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and things of the earth will go strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.

MONDAY, MAY 4TH Philippians 4:13 & John 15:5 (CSB)
By Pete Southall
“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

This week, I sat in a meeting, where, in the midst of all the training was the obligatory hour-and-a-half "back to the basics" talk. You know, it's the one that is embedded in every training session in every organization in every corporation, church, team, group worldwide. If the basics are so fundamentally important in everything we do, WHY ARE WE ALWAYS HAVING TO "GET BACK" TO THEM?!!! I think the answer lies in the two verses above. Many of us are all too eager to adopt the Phil. 4:13 mindset without remembering it's converse, John 15:5. We, sometimes, work so hard at pursuing "all things" for and through Him that we forget that NOTHING of value takes place apart from Him. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gives the most basic outline of the Christian's purpose and responsibility when He says "GO." It is not a suggestion. It is a directive...and it is basic. In fact, it is the most basic command given by THE BASIS. If we are truly operating as branches attached to the vine, how can we not GO?!!!!

TUESDAY, MAY 5TH Romans 8:5 (NIV)
By Terri Smith
“Those who live according to their sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.” Romans 8:5

Because we are human, we are a selfish, self-centered people.  Often times, thinking of what we want instead of what would be best. What is your mind "set" on, or what does your mind dwell on?  Until the Lord convicts us, we see nothing wrong with this way of thinking.  There is no "feel good" feeling in this either! Why? Because it is always about me, my and mine.
Once we come to know Christ, we really do become a new person. Praise the Lord!  We begin to notice others and their need, develop a love for people in general, as well as, looking for ways to help them.
Little do we realize that once we begin doing for others, what it does for us. (a benefit of not being self-centered). Having lived this, I can honestly say, there is nothing like it.
We must remember, we can NEVER lose our salvation, but the joy of it, can fade, unless we set our minds on doing the will of the Father.
Let us all seek to follow him daily, one step at a time.

Prayer: Father, thank you for reminding us to watch how we live and to always be open to your prompting in case our mindset turns from you. In your precious name AMEN.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6TH Romans 8:15 (NIV)
Fear by Kerry Stitch
“The Spirit that you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit that you received brought about your adoption to sonship.  And by Him we cry, Abba, Father.” Romans 8::15

We all hate liars and it’s always open season on exposing them!   Talented Zach Williams reminds us through the lyrics of his Contemporary Christian hit song that, “Fear is a Liar.”  Sadly, we tend to download and stream fear’s imposing worries and faulty perspectives of our own. It has been said that fears are one of our biggest illusions as humans.  Why?  We misread them!  Like most things in our day-to-day hurried schedules, we mistake the perceived challenge as a “giant.”  Don’t get me wrong.  Especially during a pandemic, we can choose to see many obstacles as threatening.  Losing a job, contracting a potentially deadly virus, hanging on to a dwindling savings account, teaching multiple children at home, quarantining with a difficult personality, and feeling isolated can all contribute to our default setting where there’s only one response to the layers that keep accumulating faster than a Tetris puzzle on the fastest speed. Panic.  
May I remind you that panic is a chosen response…a popular one I might testify (I default to this more than I care to admit.).  It simply isn’t the completing piece in the puzzle box provided by God.  Perhaps if we allowed God to determine what our “finished” puzzle image will be, it might include potentially fearful obstacles that He used to bring His greatness and beauty into focus. Don’t volunteer to lead the Fear Parade…because you will be spotted about a block away.  Instead, be mindful of the promises of Romans 8. (Spoiler Alert…God wins!) Listen closely for fear’s lies this week.  Allow the Holy Spirit to replace them with the Spirit-controlled life as your default setting and watch those “giants” become part of the tapestry that God weaves into your story for His glory.

THURSDAY, MAY 7TH John 16:33 (Amplified Bible)
By Toya Aultman
"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have perfect peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous, be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy; I have overcome the world. My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding." John 16:33

Struggles are a reality in this world. Ever since Genesis 3, when sin entered, this world has been full of sickness, pain, struggles, and so much brokenness. There are days now that feel like weeks (especially if you have a child/children doing school work!). I feel like March lasted for about 300 days and April about three years, but praise God, we have made it to May!!

What does May and the summer hold? Only God knows. But this we can be assured of, as a child of God the struggle does not win! COVID-19 does not win! The fears, the politics, the economy, none of it wins. Hope wins! And that hope is found in Jesus Christ. Oh child of God, hang on! Keep praying, keep studying God's Word, keep singing His praises. Our tomorrows are history to Him and we can rest in knowing that the end is more sure than yesterday's news...GOD GETS THE VICTORY!! Now, face this day with His joy and spread some of His love in your corner of the world.

Prayer: Father, thank You! Thank You! Thank You!! For the sweet assurance given in your word that as a child of Yours, victory is ours. Amen.

FRIDAY, MAY 8TH Romans 8:10
By Nita Kay Freeman
 “But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the spirit gives life because of righteousness” Romans 8:10


Is Christ IN you?  Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that if your body died today that you would run into the arms of Jesus?  This next Sunday is Mother’s Day. I’m so blessed to have 4 amazing children (3 I gave birth to and 1 that my daughter married just 4 months ago). I have a mother-in-law that is my best friend and that I love like a mother. Sunday, we will celebrate. We will laugh, eat, open gifts and we will all be together. But, Mother’s Day is a tough one for me every year. I lost my mom 14 years ago. We’ve had some really hard times in our family since she passed, and I know God spared her of these things that would have broken her heart, but my selfish self really misses her and wants her here with us to celebrate graduations and weddings, birthdays and anniversaries AND, yes, I wish she was here to give advice in the hard times. Praise the Lord that I have the assurance that she is with Jesus, rejoicing every day, singing praises to Christ and walking the streets of gold with no more pain or sickness!  More than anything, I REJOICE in the fact that I will have the ULTIMATE Mother’s Day one day when I, too, will run into Jesus’ arms. Standing right behind Him, I feel certain, will be my Mother!  What a glorious day that will be!

MONDAY, APRIL 27TH Ephesians 2:8-10 (NIV)
By Cindy Beckman

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God—not of works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:8-10

Most high school world history courses introduce students to the major world religions during their study of ancient civilizations because that is when most of these religions began, with the oldest being Judaism and Hinduism.  Islam is introduced much later, six centuries after Christianity. 

In teaching this curriculum, I always outlined the major beliefs as well as the major requirements of the religions—the rules that followers were expected to follow. We did the same thing when we later studied Roman Catholicism.  One of the highlights of the course for me was introducing them to the central doctrinal tenet that Martin Luther preached in the Protestant Reformation.  It is found in Ephesians 2:8-9: by grace you have been saved, through faith.  

The God of Christianity does not offer a works-based salvation. Good works aren’t required to be reincarnated into a better life next go-round. There are not multiple paths to salvation—only one.  Salvation is available through the gift God gave by sending His Son to die on the cross for our sins.  And all we have to do is accept it through faith. Then we can live life with the Holy Spirit guiding and directing us to good works that God has prepared for us to do. 

Prayer: Help us Lord to remember that Your gift of salvation frees us from condemnation for our past, present and future sins. We can live in the Spirit who will guide us to do the work that You have for us.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28TH Matthew 23:25
Suit Up (not ice bucket) Challenge by Paula McKee
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.” Matthew 23:25

Jesus didn’t like hypocrites; that’s clear. Accept this, though: if you know Christ Jesus as Savior, your struggle is over because your cup is clean inside and outside. The problem I have is like Paul’s; I feel guilt over everything. I can’t believe God wants me to struggle, so here’s the answer.
Suit Up Challenge: Start each day by suiting up with the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:14-18). Start your day right, and you aren’t fighting alone.  Review these steps first thing every morning until they become a habit. Make a calendar and mark it down. Draw a picture and tape it to your ceiling above your bed. Do what it takes. Who’s with me? Put on your...

• Belt of truth: God’s Word…read it; know it; claim it. It holds everything together.
• Breastplate of righteousness: God will protect your heart and soul from any attack when you know that you know what you know about His truth and live with the righteousness of Christ.
• Feet fitted with the Gospel of Peace: Make sure you’re grounded and not questioning your salvation. There’s peace in that, and you can “stand” firm.
• Shield of Faith: You must have your shield to protect you where you are most vulnerable. Suiting up every morning will bolster your faith for moments of attack.
• Helmet of Salvation: The mind is vulnerable to lies and false doctrines. Put on the helmet and know from where your salvation comes.
• Sword of the Spirit: Use this for defense from the attacks from others and your own distracted or misguided thinking but also to advance Jesus’s Gospel of Peace, the Word of God.  
Are you up to the challenge? You bet you are!

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your faithfulness. Please strengthen me to be faithful as I walk in Your Word each day. In Jesus’s holy name I pray. Amen.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29TH Hebrews 11:7 (NIV)
Are You Ready? by Chris Blacksmith

“By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith.” Hebrews 11:7

Can you imagine how vile life was back in Noah’s day?  As an outsider looking in I can say with utmost certainty that they had distanced themselves from God to the extent that the entire world felt it.  Are we any different today?  Consider for a second just how far removed we are from God.  Whose society redefined marriage? Ours! Whose society redefined gender? Ours!  Whose society redefined when life begins? Again it was ours!  God provided the directive for Noah to build an Ark and out of obedience he did just that.  Like Noah, God has given us a directive that will bring salvation.  
Romans 10:13 says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”  I like the words of Benjamin Franklin who once said, “By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail.” The question then remains: Are you ready?  Are you ready for the day when the Lord returns? Are you ready to step into eternity? Are you ready to stand in the presence of the Lord to give an account of your life? Are you ready to lead your family and friends to safety?  We have been warned that our life is but a vapor and that His return will be swift.  We have been provided security, the path that leads to security, and the instructions on what to do with that same security once we’ve experienced it.  Ask yourself today like your life depends on it (because it does): Are you ready?

THURSDAY, APRIL 30TH
Going to Church  by Paulette Herring

Jesus told us that where two or three are gathered together in my name I will be there.  That is our church now.  Didn't know that I could feel His presence and worship Him sitting in my recliner with a computer in my lap wearing PJ'S.  The most spiritual experience I had was our recent Lord's Supper.  Even though I only had a cracker and a sip of coffee, it was a wonderful worship experience.
Holy Spirit you are welcome here.  Come, flood this place and fill the atmosphere.  Your glory God is what our hearts long for, to be overcome by your presence Lord.
So we are going to be able to go to our church building again, but will have to maintain social distancing.  We can't hug everybody like we usually do but at least we can see and hear them.
My Sunday school class is taught by teleconference.  We all enjoy it very much and get to greet each other and give prayer requests.  Bro. Pat McCarty does his usual great job teaching the lesson.
God has a plan and we have all learned a lot from this pandemic, some good and a lot bad.  But we can trust Him and we know He will guide us through this.  Maybe He is coming back soon and we can all go to Heaven together!  Unsaved people might better work on getting ready for the rapture just in case.
Bro. Jason's home work is to read Romans chapter 8 every day

FRIDAY, May 1st Romans 7:24-8:2
By Jeff Rice
“What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?  Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! ….. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”  Romans 7:24-8:2

Wow! This is a passage that just never gets old, stale, or boring.  I really have nothing profound to say.  Just read the passage and understand what Jesus has, is, and will do for you today.  Jeff Rice was a wretched sinner who was condemned by that sin to spend eternity apart from God, but Jesus came and through His death, burial, and resurrections delivered me from that sin.  So now that my faith is “in Him” that means I am “in Christ” and that means there is no condemnation for the sin that was, is and will be.  But, more than that not only is there no condemnation but there is a life of freedom from the law of sin and death.  All I got to say is “Thanks Be to God”!!!

MONDAY, APRIL 20TH John 21:15-17, 19
Lessons from a Failure  by Shawn Hammontree

“Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”  He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.”  He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.  “Follow me.” John 21:15-17, 19

Do you love the Lord?  Do you know that He has saved you and you will one day be with Him forever in heaven?  Do you desire to live for Him?  Do you desire to walk closely with Him?

Have you failed the Lord?  Have you done something so bad that you feel He can’t forgive you?  Do you live under a cloud of guilt and shame?  Do you think you can never walk closely with Him again?  Would you give anything for things to be the way they once were between you and your Savior?

Peter knows how you feel!  Think about it, THE famous Peter of the Bible can relate with you and your emotional turmoil.  SAINT PETER KNOWS!  Take a moment and let that sink in- the one who physically walked and talked with Jesus knows the pain you’re going through right now.  And here’s the even more blessed part, he was forgiven and restored.  In fact, his failure ultimately led to a life of tremendous blessing and success from the One whom he had failed so miserably.

If Peter had hope, so do you and me.  Take heart!  Where your sin(s) have abounded, God’s grace has abounded all the more.  Yes, you failed.  However, it is time to receive God’s forgiveness, choose to forgive yourself, and move on in the Savior’s unending love!  TODAY is the day to take that step back to His loving embrace.  In fact, RIGHT NOW is the time to accept His love and forgiveness.

TUESDAY, APRIL 21ST Matthew 14:25 (NIV)
Lessons from the Lake by Kerry Stitch
“During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.”  Matthew 14:25                   
Growing up a few casts from the lake in Clinton made for many lake lessons.  From home to the water was about the length of time it took to eat a Moon Pie.  (For you youngsters, that’s akin to a protein bar only loaded with sugar.)
My Dad’s mastery of boating, no doubt, was due in part to his naval training as a Coxswain delivering Marines to the beach for battle.  I’m sure he felt that his family certainly didn’t “fall in line” around water like his accomplished fellow sailors. One thing for sure, whether it was fishing, water skiing, or swimming; laughter and togetherness were always the outcome along with a few too many sunburns!                                                                                                                         It makes perfect sense that our Heavenly Father utilized the lake setting for one of his many classrooms.  After all, master teachers connect learning to shared interests and rich environments.
So…what’s the takeaway?
1. You gotta get out of the boat (wearing a lifejacket for sure) to get a different perspective. (God’s!)
2.  You make a decision on the front end (bow or stern, I forget) to contribute to making the experience profitable, even if the fish aren’t biting and the weather doesn’t cooperate.  (perseverance)
3.  Expect detours in your plan.  After all, adjustments to what unfolds at the lake become THE plan. (faith)
4.  Learning from the lake is always an adventure and enjoyed more deeply with others. (grace in community)
Deep down we’ve all imagined the water-walking experience.  But, sadly, we tend to merely dangle our toes in the shallows.  God invites us all to grow spiritually and not through “boats” of our own making.  Note to self – Don’t resemble one of the eleven remaining in the boat on the Sea of Galilee.  Instead, move past the stagnant shallows and follow Jesus into the deep.  You might just set in motion a divine directive or “calling” that lessons from the lake have prompted.  Once His purposes are clear and your heart is surrendered, your path might just lead to some deeper faith walks beyond the boat.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22ND Jeremiah 17:7-8
By Nita Kay Freeman
 
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.  They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.  It does not fear when heat comes, its leaves are always green.  It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

In Jason’s sermon, he talked about the disciples that were fishing with Jesus and how they hadn’t caught anything all night.  When Jesus told them to cast their nets on the opposite side of the boat, they made a huge catch -- 153 fish!  They almost missed a BLESSING.  How many times has this happened in your life?  I know that it has happened to me more times than I can count!  How can we not miss Christ’s blessings:
B -- Bible.  Read your Bible.  Have confidence in Christ.
L -- Lord.   Make Jesus LORD of your life.  Put Him First.
E -- Eyes and Ears.  Turn your EYES upon Jesus and LISTEN with your EARS that His will for your life.
S -- Salvation.  Cherish your salvation.  It is your #1 blessing.
S -- Stronghold.  Is God your stronghold?  Do you take refuge in Him?
I -- Identity.  Where do you find your identity?  In Heaven or Earth?
N -- Notwithstanding.  In 2 Timothy 4:17, “Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known”.
G -- Gift. James 1:17 tells us that “Every good and perfect GIFT is from above!”  Are you accepting God’s amazing gifts?

THURSDAY, APRIL 23RD John 21:17
By Toya Aultman
“He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep." John 21:17

Have you ever blown it? I mean, really blown it? I tend to relate to Peter, he often spoke before he really thought about it much. He had told Jesus, he would never fall away from Him. (Mark 14:29) Then during the course of 24 hours, Peter had denied even knowing Jesus three times! When the human side of me thinks about this, I think how upset I'd be if I had been Jesus. I mean, Peter was suppose to be one of his "tribe", one of those closest to Him and yet Peter said that he didn't even know Him?! One of His friends! Think about it, wouldn't you be hurt, even mad, if one of your friends declared they had never even met you? Well thankfully, Jesus is MUCH more understanding and forgiving than we are. He knew Peter better than Peter knew Peter and I'm certain Jesus could see the fear in his face, sense the struggle in his heart, and see Peter's tomorrows. Jesus saw the multitudes Peter would reach for the Kingdom of God. He saw the struggles and hardships and even the death Peter would endure and Jesus loved him. He forgave him. He then challenged him to "Feed my sheep".
We, much like Peter, have had days we tend to deny knowing Jesus, whether it be in our speech, what we watch or listen to, or what we put out on social media. It all speaks of our relationship (or lack of) with Jesus. And the best part? Jesus isn't comparing us to anyone else! You just be faithful to who He created you to be and watch God get the glory!

Father, thank You for forgiving me when I blow it. Thank You for loving me through it all, help me to be faithful to give you glory in everything I say and do. Amen.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24TH Numbers 6:26
By Terri Smith
“The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” Numbers 6:26

He can't give us peace if we don't allow Him to.  What do I mean? In reminiscing, I could have saved myself lots of heartache and disappointments had I only not worried about what others thought of me.
I remember in my growing up years, always wanting to be like others, I wanted to look like her, have hair like her, be popular like her. The list could go on and on…but Praise The Living Lord as I grew older and accepted the Lord as my Savior, I continued learning and growing in Jesus’ ways and His love. It has helped me accept myself as being special just who I am.  Does this sound familiar??  If so, just know to keep trusting Jesus, and know we don't need to be anyone else except who God made us to be.
Bro. Jason mentioned that small changes make a difference. Maybe just focus on one small thing you need to improve on or change and work on that...all the while believing it will make a difference.  I'm sure that the little boy with the loaves and fish felt like it was nothing too, but God was there to intervene for him just like He is for us.
Once we accept ourselves then we can say, here I am Lord, use me.
When I'm not consumed by being "like" someone else or wondering what someone thinks of me, it gives us the peace that is mentioned in Numbers 6:26.
Father, thank you for loving me even when I don't love myself.  Help me to never forget that you created me for a time such as this. In your Name I Pray Amen.

MONDAY, APRIL13TH Jude 1:3 (NIV)
Contend For The Faith by Chris Blacksmith
“Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.” Jude 1:3
In 2016 the American Cancer Society reported an estimated 15.5 million cancer survivors in the U.S. Undoubtedly every one of them has a unique story to tell of how they fought and overcame such a deadly illness.
Sophia, a young cancer survivor, contracted Leukemia when she was in the 6th grade. Her amazing will to live was evident as she endured spinal taps, surgeries, blood and platelet transfusions, and life threatening injections. Amazingly enough she continued in the fight in spite of her endless adversities.
 Sophia’s strong will and determination ultimately led to her success as she contended for her precious life. God tells us in Jude 1:3 we have a much greater fight on our hands. There are people even now who would love nothing more than to discredit God’s word and ruin the credibility of every Christian in the process.
With that said, God commands us to earnestly contend for the faith. The fight we are engaged in is against a more deadly type of cancer commonly referred to as sin and death. The only remedy for this condition lies not in a blood transfusion from one person to another, rather from the precious blood of our Lord & savior, Jesus Christ. We’ve therefore been commissioned to fight a battle which has eternal attributes both for our loved ones of today and for generations of tomorrow. You and I can no longer afford to remain silent in this battle. In fact to remain silent is to declare loyalty to our adversary. I urge you today dear brothers and sisters to rise up and earnestly contend (literally fight) for the faith.

TUESDAY, APRIL 14TH
Because He Lives  by Paulette Herring
Who could have believed that a virus has separated us from each other to the point that we have had to come up with another way to have church.  Some churches have their members come in cars and line up with a speaker put on their car window like the old movie drive-ins.  Others have services online like we do here at Antioch.  My Bible class has a teleconference and we listen and talk to talk to each other by phone.
Just as this virus has separated us from each other, sin separates us from God.  Jesus has paid the price for our sin by dying on the cross.  God has a plan whereby we can trust in Him and be saved.  He died on the cross, was buried, and arose on the third day we now call Easter Sunday.  Easter changes everything.  Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe.  Because He lives I can face tomorrow, all fear is gone, I know He holds the future, life is worth the living because HE LIVES.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15TH Psalm 107:28-31
After the Storm by Paula McKee
“Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind.”
When I was a kid, my room was an old sun porch with eight tall, rattling windows. During storms, an awesome light and sound show filled the room. Mom said the angels were bowling and that if you counted between lightning strike and thunder roll, you knew how many miles away they were playing.  I never feared storms, but I did respect their power. I was playing softball one night when I was sixteen when a dangerous storm blew up. Straight line winds and pelting rain and tornado sirens sent everyone running. I ended up unwisely sitting with a teammate, my coach, and a homeless guy under an overpass. I was completely unafraid…almost. God’s plan is perfect, and I believed it.
God put on a show during the night before Easter morning this year with wind, lightning, rain, and thunder. When the sun rose, everything was fresh, green, and clean...like us when we believe Jesus. Without Him, the storms are terrifying. With him, we have peace. We are not always completely fearless, but we have a calm assurance that the stone was rolled away from the tomb, and a greater home awaits us where there IS no more fear. Praise God!
Dear God, thank you for the storms and the calm in my life, and thank you for the example and sacrifice of your son. The way he responded to the storms and his sacrifice for my salvation enable me to live my life for you. Keep me strong today, and use me to encourage others.  In Jesus’ holy name I pray. Amen

THURSDAY, APRIL 16TH
By Jeff Rice

The Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.  It is what Easter is all about.  But what is the Gospel.  The word Gospel is an old English word that combines “god” which means good and “spel” which means news. As they translated the Bible into English they created this word which means the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ.  So what is that news?  
In First Corinthians chapter 15 vs. 1-4, Paul clearly tells us what the Gospel is: “Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures”. If this is true and it is! If this really happened and it did.  The most important question we can ask is not what but how?  How should this news impact me?  
First if you have never believed and trusted in what Jesus did for you then you need to pray and ask Jesus Christ to come into your life and believe that He can save you.  Second, if you have been saved then what should our response be to this Gospel.  There should be an inward response.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the Truth.  John Ch. 17 records one of Jesus’ last prayers before his crucifixion.  He is praying for His disciples but He is also praying for disciples that will follow and He says in vs. 17, “Sanctify them by the truth…”. The word, sanctify means to set them apart or dedicate them for service.  The truth of the Gospel should change the way we live.  Paul said “I no longer live but Christ in me”.  The Gospel should impact our daily lives inwardly, but it also should impact our lives outwardly.  
Paul said in Romans 1:17 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…”. Good news is meant to be shared. The Gospel is the best news there was, is, and ever will be.  We need to actively share it with those around us.  Have you experienced the Gospel in an intimate personal way? Have you invited God into your life to forgive you of your sins?  Are you allowing the Gospel to change you daily from the inside out?  My prayer is that today you surrender to the power of the Gospel in your life.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17TH 2 Corinthians 5:15 & 1 Corinthians 15:58
By Cindy Beckman

“And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15 NIV); “Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 

The resurrection of Jesus was a game changer for the entire world. He conquered death and rose victorious over it! And those who accept this precious gift of redemption and salvation are also forever changed (Gal. 2:20) as the Holy Spirit lives and works in them. Paul tells the Corinthians (and us) that we now have a greater purpose. We are to strive to live for Him and be about the business of sharing this wonderful gift with others. Go ye therefore…(Matt. 28:19).

When Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, it was a bad day that turned into an extended bad period in his life. But as he pointed out to his brothers in Genesis 50:20: what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people.

This coronavirus has rocked our world but it has also gotten us out of our usual places. Just a few weeks ago, someone remarked how hard it was to get people to church to hear about God’s salvation. Now with the churches closed, the Word is being taken outside to the parking lots and Live on Facebook! The commission was to “Go!” and God’s people are going!
Prayer: Thank you Lord for getting us out of our usual places. Help us to use this unique time to be about Your business, sharing the great news of Christ’s death and resurrection and the new life we can now have in Him.

MONDAY, APRIL 6TH Mark 14:22 (AMP)
Take As Directed by Kerry Stitch
 “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.” Mark 14:22

Our minds are bombarded with dosages, preventions, and cures these days as we navigate the COVID 19 pandemic. Medication effectiveness in trial studies is paramount and newsworthy in extending the quality of our physical lives.
But, what about our spiritual lives? Do we seek any divine, Great Physician recommended regimen or protocol to follow? The First God-ordained Lord’s Supper with the apostles would be one obvious prescription providing modeling, instruction, and a marked improvement rate. Don’t let the familiarity with the passage dilute the directive. Partaking in the Lord’s Supper affords us the opportunity to seriously check our desires horizontally and vertically. Does participating in this Holy Ordinance (even remotely from your social distancing setting) cause you to examine what you are dependent on? Not only for acknowledging the source of our salvation do we partake, but also for the commitment to grow in discipleship. Sadly, until recently many folks did not give the “what is to come” reality much thought. Is your view of this ordinance a scheduled “event” or an on-going “reminder” to check your heart? Self-checks are highly recommended for our physical health. What if they became a part of our spiritual assessments? Don’t neglect the guidelines in the coming days to lower your risk to this deadly pandemic, but also be just as diligent in your response to following your heavenly prescriptions. This might just be the heart assessment to measure any critical concerns in devotion and dependence that need immediate attention. After all, if it’s prescribed by Jesus, we would be wise to take as directed.

TUESDAY, APRIL 7TH John 1:12-13
By Nita Kay Freeman
 
“The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.  They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the king of Israel!’” John 1:12-13

What an amazing time this must have been.  None of the crowd knew what was going to happen the next week.  According to scripture, this entry into Jerusalem was much different than the other times.  This time, he rode in on a donkey, which symbolized arrival in peace.  The palm leaves that the crowd placed in Jesus’ path, symbolized the victory of the faithful!  This celebration that this great crowd was a part of began the saddest week in history, but this particular day was glorious!  
I can’t help but draw a comparison to what is going on in the world today.  For the first time in over 50 years, I won’t be in church next Sunday on Easter.  I’m not going to lie, it makes me sad.  It gives me a little anxiety.  No Easter dress, no family lunch, no Easter Bunny cake at my mother-in-laws.  It’s just an amazing celebration each year as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ.  But, we are going to make the best of it.  
Easter is not cancelled!  We will sit in our living room and watch Easter service.  I will make the bunny cake and we will have a lunch (not nearly as tasty as what my mother-in-law would have made).  We will worship together as a family, be thankful for technology that allows us to do so and we will proclaim “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”  When we can all be together again as a church family, the celebration will be glorious and we will worship the ONE who has brought us through this sad, scary time!  BLESSED IS THE KING OF ISRAEL!

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8TH John 12:16-18
By Terri Smith
“The next day the large crowd heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!”. And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written.  Fear not daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s’ colt!” His disciples did not understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been  written about him and had been done to him.  The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to bear witness.  The reason the crowd went to meet him was that they heard that he had done this sign. “ John 12:16-18

During this self-quarantined time, one thing  my friend and I have done is work puzzles.  In doing this we’ve found out that some pieces will fit but are not the correct ones. And cause the image to be distorted. But once the correct piece is found, and correctly put into place, the picture becomes clear and complete.
 
The people in John we were like the misplaced puzzle piece, because they didn’t understand what was taking place.  They were looking for an earthly king. Zech. 9:9. In John 12:16 it explains his disciples did not understand these things at first but when Jesus was glorified, THEN and only then did they remember that t these things were written about Him, and that they had done these things to HIM.
When the Holy Spirit showed them the truth about why Jesus died for them and rose on the third day – it was an “AH-HA” moment for them when they realized what had happened. (That piece of the puzzle in the right place completed the picture)
Father, Thank you for your word and how you help us when we cannot help ourselves… and do not understand what it going on.  Help us to take advantage of all the peace you offer us in these trying days ahead . In Your Precious and Loving Name I pray AMEN!

THURSDAY, APRIL 9TH Matthew 27:59-60
By Toya Aultman
“Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.” Matthew 27:59-60

Our world has been turned upside down. Our new normal is not normal. I was thinking of the disciples and how their world was turned upside down so many years ago. Friday they put their leader in a tomb and sealed it. They hid in fear. Jesus was gone. Satan had won. So they thought. That Friday they were scared, much like we are today. Fears of the unknown lain before them, like they are before us. The difference in their Friday and ours? We know Sunday is coming! We know our hope didn't stay buried. He took our sins, bled, died and then; praise God! Rose again!
We may definitely have concerns and fears, but we can trust an Almighty God knowing nothing happens in this world they He doesn't allow. We can also know if He allows it, He will get glory from it. His name is being made famous around the globe in our day, in this hour because the world's only Hope did not stay in the dark tomb!
"What we’re seeing on the news, you saw on that Friday so long ago. Innocence interrupted. Goodness suffering. Mothers weeping. Just as the darkness fell on your Son, we fear the darkness falling on our friends, our family, our world. Just as our world has been shaken by a disease, our world was shaken the day the very child of Eternity was pierced. And we see the world turning to you, Father.  People encouraging people with scriptures and reminders of your sovereignty. We read posts urging us to respect each other, care for each other, and look up. We confess we have been anxious, but because of you, we have hope." -Max Lucado (portion of Covid19 prayer)

FRIDAY, APRIL 10TH Mark 15:33-34, 37
The Most Important Event in Human History
By Shawn Hammontree
 
“And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.  And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabacthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’   And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last.”  Mark 15:33-34, 37
 
One of my all-time favorite hymns, Oh How He Loves You and Me, came out in 1975.  This special hymn says it all on this Good Friday.
Oh, how He loves you and me, 
Oh how He loves you and me. 
He gave his life, what more could he give?
Oh, how He loves you; 
Oh, how he loves me; 
Oh, how he loves you and me.
Jesus to Calvary did go, 
His love for sinners to show. 
What He did there brought hope from despair.
Oh, how He loves you; 
Oh, how he loves me; 
Oh, how he loves you and me.