Author: plowing fallow ground

"If you have run with the footmen and they have wearied you, then how can you contend with the horses?" (Jer. 12:5) It has been a life of crises, most of which were the outcome of my own bad choices. Having been saved from the punishment of my sins against a Holy God, I can look back and see that He has been with me every step of my life. As the world grows worse, hopefully I will be able to handle the rest of the race with peace, endurance and unwavering faith. If my writing enables someone else to "contend with horses," my mission in writing will be fulfilled, and we will sing together one day in the presence of Jesus Christ, to whom all honor, glory and power belong.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE–THREE EASY STEPS!

The instruction sheet probably wouldn’t be needed–this was just too easy! The counter-height chair was a long back piece, with legs cut into the wood, two front legs, the seat, and 3 bars for stabilizing the bottom. I mean, how hard could that be? I opened the box in time for my husband to enter the room, pick up the instruction sheet, and get a screwdriver. I’m smart enough to leave the room; by the time I would be returning, it should be done.

I’m right! I walked in and the chair was finished, and was very lovely. I listened to the extreme quiet in the house and realized he was taking a rare nap. Looking at the second chair, I knew I could follow what he had done and have it finished by the time he woke.

I put the seat on, then attached the front legs. I’ll admit I did wonder if it were possible to put the left one on the right, and the right one on the left. I couldn’t see a difference, so figured it wouldn’t matter. By the time I was ready for the 3 bars across the sides and lower front, I was tired. Time to quit. Oh wow–just in time, as I heard him waking.

Knowing if I disappeared, he’d finish the project, I headed for the office. An hour later he’s calling: “They’ve sent the wrong front legs! These are not right, and the cut-out sections for the stabilizer bars are in the wrong place! You’ll have to call and order new ones.” I asked, meekly, “Could I have put the two front legs on the wrong sides?” No answer. I drop it. The chair lays in the floor, a lonely, unfinished project, waiting for help. An hour later the opportunity arises.

Aha! He’s going to take trash to the dump! I figure I have about 8 minutes to test my theory that I had put the legs on wrong. The instant he’s gone, I unscrewed the legs, take out the stabilizer bars (that weren’t screwed in), and switch the legs. I was right–they were in the wrong places. Whew. As I’m tightening the screws, I hear the car returning. Quickly I inserted the bars–and viola! everything looks perfect.

He entered the room when he got back into the house, and I innocently asked, “I can’t see a problem; would you look at it, and see what’s wrong?” He walked over to the chair, laying on the floor placed beside the finished one, and said, “Yes. If you’ll just look a minute, I can show you exactly what is wrong!” He looked, looked some more, and studied the two intently. I was cracking up inside, but making no obvious noises like snorting. After a couple more minutes, he turned. “WHAT DID YOU DO?” Not calmly. “I can feel you laughing!” I carefully mentioned that I had suggested I had put the legs on the wrong sides; when I switched them, all stabilizer holes lined up perfectly.

Ahhh. The power of an instruction sheet. No, I didn’t use it, and wasted a ton of time. Yes, I could have picked it up, looked at the numbers on the bottom of the legs, and gotten it right. Hardheaded is my nature, and yet I realize every time that I need steps to follow to get where my project intends me to go!

Are you like that? Some of us are, and some are very fortunate to have either the experience or the common sense to accomplish their intentions without steps. Sunday’s message was a great three-step “instruction sheet” on how to decide if you are ready to be a witness for Jesus Christ: how to identify your responsibility, how to identify those to whom you can be a witness, and why you need to do so. Click on http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and select the sermon for the past Sunday, “DIFFERENCE MAKERS: WHERE DO I START?” It is a great beginning for someone who wants to make a difference on your street, perhaps just within a few houses near yours, and minister and witness. Claim those people for the Lord, praying for them, and looking for ways to serve them. Once you’ve led a person to know and accept the forgiveness of God, it will excite you to do it again and again. Grab your notebook, an easy chair, and sit back to enjoy the service, then do the study below. Let it make a difference in your life!

Difference Makers: Where Do I Start?

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Some of us work so much better with an instruction sheet—or a list of “steps”—to get a project done. Others do great without one. Can you think of an example? If you are by yourself, write your answers in a notebook.

We are currently in a series called “Difference Makers,” looking at how we should be living out our Christian life in the world. Sometimes we are unsure of a “next step.” This past Sunday’s message lays out for us three steps that will help us examine our hearts to know that we are prepared to witness, who we should have a burden for, and why it is our job to share with them the Good News.

Focal Passages: 2 Pet. 3:9-10; 1 Cor.15:1-4a; John 14:6; Rom.10:9-13; Matt. 22:37.

Think About or Discuss:

BEING A DIFFERENCE MAKER: Where do I start?

Know who you are

  1. What have you learned in prior weeks that defines a “Difference Maker”? According to those passages above, what is your responsibility?
  2. How can you be a Christian, and not be a Christ-follower? What does a Christ-follower do?
  3. Read 1 Cor. 15:1-4a; what did Paul do once he was saved by grace?

Know who they are

  1. John 3:16 says Jesus’ atonement for sins is available to whom? If you desire to ask Jesus into your heart and life, will He hold anything in your past against you?
  2. What are some normal characteristics of those who need Christ? How is it possible that their anger, profanity, or attitude might be covering up a deep desire to have someone love them?
  3. Read Matt. 22:37. Why is it so hard to love those who are going to hell (your “neighbors”) or those who have hurt you? Can you understand that you need to forgive others, just as Jesus has forgiven you?
  4. What are some intentional things you can do to show love for these people?

Know what your job is

  1. Go back again to 1 Cor. 13:4. What did Paul do after salvation? What was probably was being said of him? (Remember, his reputation would have gone out among all those following Jesus Christ at that time. How hard would that have been for him to face those same people?)
  2. 28:19-20: What does Jesus tell you to do?

Close

If we are not careful, we can become insulated in our churches through Bible studies, evening groups, choosing friends, worship or Sunday School, and never reach our neighbors or the world. It takes intentional, daily discipline to be willing to be used to further the kingdom of God on earth. Usually work situations are not easy places to witness verbally, so we rely on our lifestyle to show our co-workers that we hold ourselves to another standard. But is this what Jesus desires of us? If we look at the early church, we find the disciples going out “street preaching,” sharing the good news of the death, burial and resurrection of a Savior to all who would listen. They didn’t just live their faith, they shared it. Have you examined your life to see if you love the lost with the same compassion Jesus did? Does your lost neighbor weigh on your heart? Until you get the courage to witness, you can at least lift him/her up in prayer each day, asking God to open a door. If you are unsure of the status of their soul, you can usually pick up on it with just a few minutes conversation, or ask a non-threatening question like “Do you attend church?” Most people are not offended by that. In your heart, identify your job as a Christ-follower as someone who is a witness of what He has done for you, who gives out the good news, and who loves people into a relationship with Jesus. You’ll never be satisfied to live a life of mediocrity again!

Key Verses: 2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (NKJV)

A DIFFERENCE MAKER:

Sees things and people the way Christ does;                                                                 Loves people, and uses things (not the reverse!);                                                             Has a heart for the hurting;                                                                                            Has a heart for the lost;                                                                                                      Is a Christ-follower;                                                                                                             Is one who has believed and received the Gospel story of Jesus [His death, burial,   resurrection], has followed Jesus in baptism, is obeying all that Jesus taught, and is helping others do the same.

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The license plate arrived in the mail, and I could hardly wait to put it on the van! I wanted everyone to know that a staunch supporter of Liberty University was on the road (it beat the previous WV BLNDE, as everyone gave me plenty of space when passing…)

Someone came to the house a short time later, and my first response was to show them my new plates! “What’s an.. uh.. ‘ee-wee’?” they asked. I gawked at them. “Are you serious? You were raised in sheep country, with flocks on almost every hill, and you don’t know that is how you spell ‘ewe’ [pronounced yew–like ‘you’ for you non-farmers]? It’s the female sheep!”

Here I had thought it was so clever: El, as in God in Hebrew, and Ewe, since I am His “ewe” or His female sheep. At the same time, the phonetic of El Ewe (LU) was perfect (my thinking).

When we had first found a move to Lynchburg was in our immediate future, we were living about 1/2 mile from Virginia Tech–with all its traffic, students, party-atmosphere and cliquishness. Now, less than a year after the move to Blacksburg, my husband was being transferred to Lynchburg. As our son and I drove the first truck load of household goods across the rural countryside, as soon as we began hitting the topography of central Virginia I felt as though I had come “home.” It was so much like North Carolina, and yet still felt “country.” I loved it immediately. For the first time in a year I began to think there might be peace somewhere in the future.

It did not take long before Liberty University became a part of our lives, from their sports to education, from their chancellor, Jerry Falwell, Sr., to their desire to become the biggest and best Christian university in America. We embraced it all. Thus, my pride in having a tag that proclaimed our allegiance to Liberty!

As we became more well-known around Lynchburg, I realized that not everyone felt it a privilege to have a massive university in their formerly small town. The best analogy I can think of is a rural country church, where the membership has been a stagnant 80 since the 1800’s when it was organized. When a newer, more modern pastor came who loved the Lord, who wanted to serve his community and win souls, strangers began attending the church: strangers who did not look like, think like or act like those who had been there for decades. Why, they didn’t even wear 3 piece suits! Didn’t they know that was part of being saved?? So it was with Lynchburg. People who wanted their small town to remain a small town resented the building progress that was eternal. Shops, malls, road construction, new restaurants, more churches–well, there is no way to serve an extra hundred thousand people without all the amenities. But not us–we wanted to be a part of all of it.

Driving down the highway, I was cut off by a driver not looking where they were going. I started to yell “Idiot!” when I remembered my tag. Shucks. So much for defensive driving. What had I gotten myself into? Was I not going to be able to go 75mph on Rt. 460, with it’s 55 mph? Get in the right hand lane and drive sane? Soooo not me. As a former pastor once said (from the pulpit), “it just aggravates me to have anyone else on the road who is going faster than me!” Yes, he really did say that. I hoped he didn’t have a plate that reflected which church he preached at. (No, that is not my attitude–I’m always glad when someone flies past me, hoping they will get to the cop before I do…) Still, I was right that my tag was a deterrent to bad driving. Here it is, five years later, and I’m still not only driving with that plate, but EL EWE 2 on my other car. And every time I’m tempted to tailgate someone who is going slowly, toot when they don’t peel out when the light turns green, or some other action that causes me to want to blow them off the road, I think of my plate. Am I being a testimony of what LU stands for? If I don’t drive with safety and the welfare of others in mind, will they remember it was a woman, or will they think “Those LU people!” Yep, they’ll blame the university.

This past Sunday Jonathan Falwell preached how not only our own personal lives, but our church itself should be relevant in an age when it seems “everyone does what is right in his own eyes.” People are watching you as you go through the routine of daily living, trying to be a Christian in spite of everything thrown at you, the porn, the evil lusts, the profanity, the adultery… and they’re waiting for you to slip. Now is a good time–if you didn’t see the sermon Sunday, to click on http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and select A New Day In the Old Way. Watch the sermon, and keep your notebook and a hot drink handy, then do the study below, and ask yourself, “how is my behavior reflecting on Christ? Do the things I do represent Him in a way that would make others know I’m different?” Hopefully you can answer yes. If not, change your behavior, or change your “tag,” right?

A New Day in the Old Way

Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Have you ever held a position, whether possibly by birth or at your job, that caused you to conduct yourself carefully when you are in public? Can you think of an example?

We have entered the new year of 2018, and already the first week has passed! Sunday we looked at the church, and its relevancy in the 21st century. It has had to evolve throughout centuries of change, but the past one hundred years has wrought the greatest transformation, as technology enables all parts of the earth to be interconnected. Is the church still important? Let’s see what God says.

Focal Passage: Matthew 16:13-18.

Think About or Discuss:

WHAT IS THE CHURCH?

The Church is God-ordained

  1. Read Matt. 13-18. In verse 18a, Who builds the church? What was Jesus speaking of?
  2. Many of you have lived long enough to see massive changes in the world; what are some ways the church (as a unit) has changed during the years you’ve lived?
  3. What are some signs your church is in line with New Testament doctrine?

WHY IS THE CHURCH IMPORTANT?

          The church is not a building or an organization, it’s YOU!

  1. Read 1 Cor. 1:1-3. Who was Paul writing to? What did he call them? What were the common characteristics of each “church”?
  2. In the ice breaker, you thought of the way you sometimes present yourself, either as a representative of your family or company. How do you see your behavior as a believer in Jesus Christ as being a testimony to others?
  3. Do you “go” to church, or are you the church, wherever you are? Explain.

IS THE CHURCH STILL RELEVANT TODAY?

          Jesus is the Head of the church

  1. Read Col. 1:18. What does Paul say in this verse? How are the underground churches that meet in basements in foreign lands, the groups who meet in Africa under trees, or Christians meeting in air-conditioned buildings in America the same? Which might possibly hold their faith more precious, and why?
  2. Each day newspapers are reporting businesses that are closing their doors after decades of trade. Verse 18b assures us of what fact? How can this be?
  3. Every business or organization has a focus, either on fashion, health, or spirituality. Why will people find no “rest” for their souls (Heb, 4:9) in any place except a solid Bible-teaching group of fellow-believers?

DO I REALLY NEED TO BE A PART OF THE CHURCH

          Jesus gave a Plan for the church

  1. Read Acts 2:42. What were the apostles doing in the early days after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension back to heaven?
  2. Read Matt. 28:19. Why did the church in Jerusalem have to undergo tribulation to get them to begin changing the world?

Jesus gave us the Keys to the church

  1. Read John 1:12. What does Christ expect of you once you have given your life to Him?
  2. Read Eph. 2:19. Becoming a member of a family requires what responsibility? Is this the same as becoming a Christian?
  3. Read Heb. 10:23-25. What is so important about fellowship?

Close

God is so incredibly above “all that we could ask or think!” and you will never figure Him out. When He ordained the church (the body of believers who meet to worship, praise and learn of Him), its purpose was to bring together those of like minds and common goals, and spread the good news that salvation was now available to all men. We meet together to know Him better, praise and draw near to Him, depend on Him for our very life, and to take care of each other. The church is magnificent in its function, and if we carried out its duties as He intended, we would see many souls added to it. In the early days after Jesus had returned to His Father, the apostles and believers shared what they had, met together, did life together, and took care of their own. There may be some civic organizations that take on some of those roles, but none focuses on the spiritual to the extent the church does. But do you realize that you—even when alone—represent the church? When people know you are a Christian, they observe what you do and how you speak. When you go out among strangers or friends, you need to keep your heart focused on the truth that you represent Him to those you meet. As we begin this new year, let us keep our thoughts centered on being the “church” that most people avoid. Do you smile at them? Say hello? You are drawing them to you, showing them a love they get few other places. Eventually you may earn their trust and a time will come when you can share your faith. Don’t be afraid of being the church in the world—embrace the possibility and be a pleasing aroma to God!

Key Verses: Matt. 16:18: “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” (NKJV)

 

 

A RESOLVE TO LOVE!

Day 3! Are you still on target with your resolutions? That seems to be the topic of conversation on radio, among friends, and on the news or talk shows since Monday morning! I didn’t realize it’s such a big deal. Face it, it’s a big deal.

Do you know what the 3 most-resolved options are? 1) To lose weight (probably the other 364 days as well); 2) To sign up with an online dating service, and 3) To get back in church.

Seems rather disjointed, doesn’t it? But not really. If (the world tells us) we’re as thin as a rail, someone will love us for how we look. If we sign up for online dating, maybe we’ll find someone who will love us. And if we get back into church, maybe we’ll find someone who will love to be with us. Ugh. Did you just go wash your hands? The world has us brainwashed.

The truth is, everyone wants to be loved! The truth is, Someone loves YOU! Not only loves you, but loves you with all your idiosyncrasies, extra pounds, unruly hair–or no hair, last year clothes, freckles–and any other symbol that stands out to you as a reason not to be loved. He loves you because He made you. He loves you so much that He took the punishment you deserve for a sinful life style, and paid for it by dying a criminal’s death–even the death on a Cross. Jesus Christ is His name.

A story that bears repeating occasionally concerns one of one of my sons, when he was young.  He had said some very harsh words, and in that era, washing out one’s mouth with a slight bit of soap was considered appropriate punishment. As I picked up the bar, he was already in tears. I stopped, and told him that this one time I was going to use the soap to wash MY mouth, rather than his, and take his punishment. He flew into a panic, yelling and screaming. “No, Mommy! You didn’t say those words, I did!” I did wash out my mouth, and then he grabbed for the bar. I had to explain the punishment was already paid, but he was beyond distraught because I would do that, rather than cleaning his, when he deserved it. I spent some time lovingly guiding him through the actions of Jesus, Who took the punishment for our sins so that we could have everlasting life. He got the message.

I have to believe, so many today are like my son: they would rather pay for their own sins (which is impossible), rather than accepting the free gift of life that Jesus so lovingly offers, because then they would owe Him their life. If you could make a resolution that you can stick to for this year, why not resolve to show love to those who reject Jesus, to the unlovely, to the hurting, to the sinful, or to the weak in spirit? Love God, and love your neighbor. Not easy perhaps, but possible. Had it not been, He would not have told us to do it.

This first week of the new year is a great time to get yourself back into a close, intimate relationship with Jesus. In doing so, join with Thomas Road Baptist Church, listening to Jonathan Falwell as he teaches on “Pressing On,” as we strive to know Jesus better, love Him more, and obey Him fully. Get your notebook, and click on the link http://www.trbc.org/service-archive, and select the service that pops up, “Pressing On.” As a new note, this year daily write on your calendar ONE thing each day that you’re thankful for. You’ll find that after just three days, there are already blessings abundant. Our God is so able to do so much more for us that we can even ASK or–even better–THINK! That’s amazing, when you consider it. Don’t you think so?

Pressing On                                                                                                                                             Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Finding a time or circumstance in which to make a fresh start is a great thing. The beginning of a new year always encourages us to make goals that we hope will create a change in our lives! What other times might hold new hope? Write your answers in a notebook if you are alone.

As we at Thomas Road end 2017, we know we answered firmly that Christ is the only reason for the Christmas season. Now we can’t help but hope 2018 might be a year of new beginnings. Perhaps it will be the year we achieve a long dreamed-of goal, or reach a new level of faith. Let’s strive with the apostle Paul toward the goal of knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection better than we ever have before.

Focal Passage: Philippians 3:1-14.

Discuss:

THE PAST SHOULD STAY THERE

Our beliefs about the past

  1. Read verse 13. Why did Paul give this piece of advice (which he himself followed)? What happens to any living thing if it remains stagnant? Read verses 2-3. Why does Paul warn against holding onto traditions learned as immature believers?
  2. Read verses 6-7. All the good works in the world can’t save anyone. How did Paul find this out for himself? Read Ephesians 2:8-9. What are some traditions the church is still holding onto today that should be put into the past.                                                                                                                                  What we should believe
  3. Read verse 8. What is the only thing worthwhile that will help you, keep you, protect you, and save you? What were some of them Paul counted as nothing? (Is there anything you are relying on for salvation, other than the work of Jesus Christ on the cross? Answer in your heart.)
  4. How can you commit to “knowing Him better” as one of your New Year’s goals—and then keeping a daily journal to see that your progress?

THE GOAL IS CLEAR

  1. Read verse 10. If you set your goal for 2018 to know Christ better, what could that look like? What would change as you come to know Him more intimately?
  2. What is the fruit that begins to come as you know Him better? (Gal. 5:22-23.)
  3. Read verse 12. Paul wanted the church to know he had not “arrived.” What does he say he has to do?

THE GOAL? PURSUIT OF CHRIST AND THE PROMISE OF HEAVEN

  1. Read verses 13-14. What were the three things Paul disciplined himself to do?
  2. What are some ways you can take control in these areas? Read Heb. 12:1.

Close

If you’ve ever stood in the sand at a beach as the waves roll in, you know that remaining in one spot will soon pull sand away from your feet, only to cover them higher with each incoming wave. Standing still in the Christian life will destroy your progress, just as surely. Paul knew that he could not let his family, his reputation as a Pharisee, his zeal for God and eventually his torture of Christians, define who he was: he became a child of the King the day Jesus met him on the road to Damascus, and from that point on he had to forget those things which had seemed to matter, to become the person God intended him to be. When you reach(ed) the point at which you surrender(ed) your heart to Christ, from then on you must pursue a life of knowing Him, serving Him, and letting the change in your heart be reflected in your lifestyle. What better time to discipline yourself setting these worthy goals than the beginning of a new year? Keep a journal of your progress, your prayers, and His answers this year, so you can see your growth. In a way, life as a disciplined Christian will never become any more of a habit than a new lifestyle of healthy eating habits. One piece of pie, one bag of chips, and suddenly the control slips. Be honest with yourself: admit the slip, and begin again (Prov. 24:16). Strive for the prize that Jesus Christ has promised! Keep pressing on, and if you stumble, get up, knowing the heavenly reward will be waiting when He calls you.

Key Verses: Phil. 3:14: I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (NKJV)

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Leaving Heaven’s Glory for Earth

The house was standing in among many beautiful homes, deserted, but very lovely. The ones we had driven by over the past mile had been large, extra large, and extra, extra large. The landscaping around them was witness to the pride the owners felt in their property’s outside appearance, and without a doubt the inside of each home was impeccable. It had been slightly overwhelming, riding by homes where you knew the occupants made a living that put them in the upper bracket over the majority of people in the world.

We had set a cap on the amount we would spend for a new home, and it also had to meet specific criteria–qualifications we had found, over a long marriage and about 20 moves–that would enable us to enjoy the remaining years in peace and quiet. Or, at least as much peace and quiet as seems to be possible in today’s world. Now, as I woke to a new day, I saw a note from my husband to search out this house: the evening before, the price had been dropped $25,000, putting it exactly at the figure we had set.

After more than two months of house searching, putting hundreds of miles on the cars as we went into every area of the counties around us, we felt we really knew what we were looking for: privacy, space to entertain our church family and friends, the looks of the extended neighborhood or road, and acreage. When a house met those qualifications, we were ready to look inside. Because of the price drop, my husband’s note that next morning said he wanted me to make an appointment to look inside this one, even though it met only three of our four standards.

He was so excited as we got out of the car and started looking inside. It was a great layout, and exceeded our expectations. I personally believe from the moment he saw the listing in the MLS, it was a done deal in his mind. However, we still had to spend a couple of hours there with our realtor, looking at everything. The contract was signed within those two hours, and we gave them until that evening to answer. One hour later we learned they had accepted the contract.

For the next four weeks, the move did not seem real as the business side of a transaction was being conducted. We didn’t even have time to ride by but once or twice, and I had almost forgotten what it looked like by the time the closing was a reality. My heart had gone into overdrive each time I thought of the new “house” (not yet a home.) Those four important qualifications–which were now three–were vital (I thought), but the one at the top of the list was not privacy but acreage: we wanted to be in a rural setting, with enough acres that we were shielded from neighbors.

I realized well what we had done. In the enthusiasm of finding a home worth quite a bit more than the price, in a great neighborhood (a subdivision, or “community,” lest there be any doubt), we had sacrificed the one thing that was most important. I developed a mantra. “I can do this,” I said to myself over and over. Not only was it not exactly what we had been looking for, it would be the first time in many years that we lived with near neighbors, and the thought of that sent me into stress attacks. My mind kept saying I could do this, but my heart was not in it at all. I was not raised to be controlled by wealth, and the thought of being a stand-alone was palatable only when I told myself I could spend each day inside.

The day following the closing a local furniture store brought living room furniture out, and as my husband met them there, I could still remain in my denial state. We were able to spend a few minutes there on Sunday afternoon, and begin taking some of the minor items of our own into the house. Monday he went to work, and I finished tasks at “home” before going to the house. As I pulled into the community with it’s grand, stately homes, tears rolled down my face. “I CAN’T do this!” I cried. I was already grieving the inevitable loss of the place I had called home for fourteen years–longer than any place I had ever lived in my life. It was where I had taken care of my mom til she died, the home where I babysat my newborn granddaughter while her Daddy was on deployment–it was, in fact, HOME in every sense of the word.

A man with long hair standing in a field of dasies.

We didn’t have close neighbors, nor trick-or-treaters. We didn’t have people near us whose families were falling apart, or children screaming, dogs barking, or rich people expecting us to be like them.

Grief I have known only a few times in my life began to sap every bit of the life out of me, and I dreaded the years facing me. I couldn’t pray, I couldn’t tell God how I felt. It didn’t matter–it was going to happen whether I wanted it to or not.

He didn’t wait for me to pray. Suddenly, on the way back home late in the afternoon, tore up inside, His presence within the car was felt, as if He had come into the car to talk to me. Even I knew my whining, crying, grumbling, complaining, and hurt had probably deserved chastisement, but instead, “the goodness of God leads to repentance.” He brought to my mind what Jesus had had in heaven: He was with His father, having been alive forever as the Creator, the Omnipotent One, the only one who has the power to conquer death. Angels around the throne room sing Holy, Holy, Holy. He had it all. He is God. John 1 says “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” He spoke the world into being.

But God. But. God. Had a plan, which was to send His only Son to this earth, which is cursed, to save mankind from the punishment of his sins. Jesus was the only one who could do that. He came “down from His glory,” to live with sinful man. He came from a perfect place to an imperfect one. He was never alone day after day. People hung onto Him everywhere He went. He was often without food while serving and healing the ones who followed Him. By the time He had finished with my heart, I had gotten the message. My move was nothing compared to His. And not only the move, but in going into a community of wealthy homeowners, I was going to be exposed to the ones who, the Bible says, are the hardest to win for the kingdom of God. Their money is sufficient to get them anything they want, and they don’t want God. Their money can buy them everything–but salvation can’t be bought.

“Love the Lord your God,”–the first commandment–and the other is like unto it: Love your neighbor as much as you love yourself. Ouch. On my own land, with lots of trees and property, I don’t have to even know my neighbors. In a community, I will. God is putting us there for a purpose. Am I up to it? Probably not. Do I have a choice? No. Is His will more important than my will. Yes, but that doesn’t mean it won’t hurt. Still, it cannot compare to what Jesus had to accept as His purpose.

Get your Bible, a drink and a soft chair, your notebook, pen, and even friends if you can, and watch the sermon from Thomas Road Baptist Church, preached Sunday, December 3. You can find it at http://www.trbc.org/service-archive, and it’s right there! Sit back and worship, then listen as Pastor Jonathan Falwell uses the book of Hebrews to show us the astounding life Jesus had, the coming to earth as a baby, and the sacrifice He paid to save us. Enjoy the service, and absorb the  real “reason for the season” of Christmas!

The Point of Christmas:

The Covering

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

If you are a “to do” person, you probably have a long list of things that need to be taken care of. Often it seems there’s one item that either continually is back on your list, not working, or really needs to be replaced. Can you think of an example to share? If you are by yourself, write your answers in a notebook.

We are beginning a new series for December, realizing that many people ask, “So what’s the point of Christmas?” Today we will look at Hebrews to see what is written as to the reason God the Creator sent His one and only Son to the earth, clothed in human flesh. We are loved so deeply by God, yet so flawed by sin, that Jesus came to be the sacrifice that would pay the sin debt nothing, or no-one, else could satisfy.

Focal Passages: Hebrews 10:1-18; Genesis 3:6-11.

Think About or Discuss:

All have sinned

  1. Read Heb. 10:1. What was the old law, given through Moses? Why was it given? Why were the sacrifices in the Old Testament repeated “over and over,” but never could attain perfect cleansing?
  2. Read Romans 3:23. Paul explained that we all mess up continually. How and why did men reject God’s dominion, and begin accumulating the debt of sin that separated him from God?

We needed an out

  1. Read verse 2. Even the most committed Christians continue to sin. Read 1 John 1:7-9 and Rom. 7:14-25. What hold does sin have over us?
  2. God gave the first covenant to Moses, but what did it show us that we are not capable of doing? Read Judges 21:25. How does this explain why we need a savior?
  3. In the opening, you thought of times when your best efforts provided no real help in fixing some items. How does that illustrate the futility of sacrificing animals to completely remove the debt of sin we owe?

The old way was never enough

  1. Read verses 3-4. If you made yearly trips to sacrifice animals for your sins, then had to do it all over again next year, what would that teach you? How does that explain that the sacrifices reminded the people that animals could not take away their sin?
  2. If you saw that nothing you were attempting was accomplishing a certain task, what would you eventually do?

We needed a covering

  1. Read verse 5. Jesus did not come to the earth against His will, or in ignorance of what He was going to endure. Why would He verbalize His birth to the Father, quoting Psalm 40:6-8?
  2. Read Genesis 3:6-11. Have things changed in man’s nature since Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden? Read Romans 5:15b. Our choice to follow God’s will or choose evil will remain in conflict throughout time. Can you think of other verses that confirm His humble birth was to save us?* (end)

Jesus paid it all

  1. Read verse 10, and chapter 7:26, 27. Unlike the priests, who had to go into the Holy of Holies once every year, Christ’s blood was sufficient as a one-time sacrifice. Read Heb. 1:1-3, and 10:11-13. What did He do when He ascended back into heaven?

Close

This past week was the 500th anniversary of the day Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church, listing the offensive doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church. Particularly, Luther was pointing out the heresy that required monetary payment be paid to the church for forgiveness of sins. This amazing young man—just 33—began the movement that was known as the Protestant Reformation. Protestant Churches owe a debt of gratitude to this man who realized that forgiveness of sins comes through Jesus Christ, and Him alone. Jesus sacrificed with His life for complete forgiveness in a “once for all” action, available to anyone who believes and repents.

At Christmastime it is unusual to hear a message taken from the book of Hebrews. How fitting that the book contains the story of salvation! We flesh it out with the wonderful Christmas stories found in Matthew and Luke, but the writer to the Hebrews made certain we are aware of the reason for the manger, as he tied together the prophecies surrounding the birth of a Messiah, and the fulfilment of His cry “It is finished” as He died on the cross, once for all. He wrote the life of Jesus, wrapping up His birth, death and resurrection. His death, more gruesome than we—or movies—can ever imagine, was His choice, because His love for us is so incredible. His grace should always amaze us. It should cause us to bow down and worship, overwhelming us as it covers our sin. Have you accepted the truth that He actually paid the price of your sin? Open your heart if you haven’t already, and ask Him in. Find a Life Group where you can grow, and learn to love Him with all your heart.

Key Verse: Colossians 3:17: Hebrews 10:5: Therefore, when He came into the world, He said, “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You have prepared for Me.” (NKJV)

*1 Timothy 1:15; Luke 19:10; Matthew 1:21; John 3:17 (to name a few).

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A THANKFUL HEART!

We sat around the table, looking at the “Poor Man’s French toast,” which was bread fried in a little margarine, sprinkled with a bit of sugar. It wasn’t often we had the luxury of an egg to dip the bread in, or syrup to pour on it. We had other versions of meals we laughingly labeled as “Poor Man’s…” but the French toast was a favorite.

Like so many people, I had married my husband while a good portion of his paycheck was going out for custody–the punishment for letting your emotions rule your head, having children, but not the years with the Lord to have learned to lean on Him when the times got tough. Kids, then divorce, was followed by financial chaos. Eventually ruin came closing in on a second marriage. Too little income, too much outgo. It is the reality of existence for many people, and it certainly was for us.

Mother and Daddy were aware things were tough, but Mother was about as tight-fisted as one who lived through the great Depression could be. She never got over the frugality of spending a penny more than she needed to. To give to a child (so, we were adults, but always a child, as any parent knows), even one in their thirties, was not her way. For some reason, though, she decided one Christmas to be generous. As we sat around her floor, they opened the presents we had made for them. Fortunately, crafts were beautiful and welcome gifts, and we “made” the most of the situation (pun intended). Mother usually considered clothes the best gift she could give, with perhaps a small toy put in to make a child happy.

The last gift she gave us was an envelope: I opened it, (my husband was glad to let me), and I looked at the check. It was for $1,000. Had it been for $10,000, I could not have been more shocked, as Mother (as stated) did not waste money. I’m sure she worried I would spend it on something frivolous! It took a moment to sink in, then I burst into tears–the outpouring of an accumulation of stress, instantly and emotionally being relieved by the simple numbers on the paper. I sobbed for so long, as I look back, that I’m sure Mother was well-rewarded for her generosity. I’ve never forgotten the moment, the gift, or the gratefulness in our hearts as we accepted what she had given us.

We have just come through another Thanksgiving season, when the majority of Americans hopefully remembered that we have been blessed beyond most nations–and knew Whom to thank for the bounty we enjoy. Shared before, it always brings another memory, one which we did for awhile, then let slide by the wayside, always intending to get back into the habit.

You see, our minds are so busy that what is important today, and what we are sure we will remember for years to come, is gone by next week. Our family realized this, so one Thanksgiving we began our “Thanksgiving Jar.” Every time something wonderful happened, we wrote it down and folded the paper, putting it in the jar. As the year passed, the jar got more and more full. By the next Thanksgiving it was to the top, and now we were ready to read what was written on the pieces of paper. One after another we drew the notes out, and in turn, read them. We laughed, we cried, we remembered, and we praised the One from whom all blessings flow! And–as we had thought–most of the blessings had been forgotten, fallen under the weight of life and the day to day crises that come. It was the most blessed of all the Thanksgivings we had ever had.

Have you every thought of doing that? A grateful heart is one of the most joyous character traits one can have. That is probably why Paul said, “in whatsoever situation I find myself, I have learned to be content.” He was so grateful for the gift of salvation that he never got over it. Being thankful comes from a heart of humility–which God loves. When we are saying “Thank you,” we are saying that the one who has given us something has favored us when we feel there are a world of people more deserving.

Get your notebooks, your pen, a comfy chair, and something to drink. Then go to http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and click on the sermon for Sunday, November 26, 2017. Jonathan Falwell of Thomas Road Baptist Church preached on A Heart of Thankfulness, and as you watch, let the Holy Spirit fill your soul with gratefulness that God has offered YOU the opportunity to become one of His adopted children! If you have someone to watch it with, listen to the beautiful music, and sing along with the congregation. Be thankful you have a way to watch the service, hearing, intelligence, eyes to see, and a God who loves you enough to die for you!

The Heart of Thanksgiving                                                                                                                           Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Being commended for a job—even one that is expected of you (like mowing grass or cleaning a room!)—leaves us with a sense of gratefulness that someone has noticed and appreciated our effort. Can you give an example, realizing we’re doing it, not for boasting, but to make a point?

Sunday we finished the last hours of four days traditionally known in America as the “Thanksgiving holiday.” These days were hopefully filled with an abundance of food, family, and thankfulness for blessings of the past year. If you were not able to be with friends or family, our hope is that you were still able to spend time thanking God for His kindnesses to you as this year has passed. Possessing a grateful heart is one of the important characteristics of one who wants to be genuine as a Christ-follower. Paul gives us much guidance in the short book of Colossians, knowing if we set our mind to be more aware of, and thankful for, our blessings, we will pass on a joyous legacy.

Focal Passages: Colossians 3:12-17.

Think About or Discuss:

The Heart of Gratitude

Be Different

  1. Read verse 12. We often hear the word “intentional” used today. What are the characteristics that Paul encourages us to be “intentional” about, in this verse? If you’re by yourself, keep a notebook handy for your answers.
  2. What is the connection between the qualities listed in the verse (which might differ according to your translation), and the trait of being thankful? The deeper question is, what is the foundation upon which being thankful is set?
  3. What is the relationship between gratefulness and humility? Explain how you see it.

Be Caring

  1. Read verses 13-14. No one is perfect, including you! What list of sins could Jesus recite against you, if He wanted to? Have you asked for forgiveness? What is the analogy between you being forgiven by Christ (undeservedly so, like the rest of us), and you forgiving those who antagonize you?
  2. In verse 14, another action is intentional; what is it? What are some ways you can “put on” love? Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a. Why in Col. 3:14 does Paul call love the “bond of perfection”? How is that linked with 1 Cor. 13:4-8a?
  3. Who does the world encourage you to put first? Why is that contrary to the Word of God?

Be Together

  1. Read verse 15. How do you attain God’s peace? How can you let it rule in your heart? Why is that important?
  2. Everyone has friends who do not know about or care about God. Why is it important to maintain most of your fellowship with believers? How are some ways you can love an unbeliever but not let them influence you?
  3. Why does Paul add “and be thankful” at the end of this verse? How does Peace and Thankfulness go together?

Be Consistent

  1. Read verse 16. As you look back at the previous four verses, how many of the actions that are addressed are “intentional”? What do the words “put on,” “let,” “do,” and “be” have in common?
  2. Read Ephesians 4:14-16. Why would the world want to take you down in your faith? What is the goal in verse 15? What is God’s purpose for us in 16b?

Close

When was the last time you saw a two-year-old throw a fit when someone was dressing  him? It is typical behavior as they learn to express the desire to “do it myself!” We should be so adamant about “putting on” the word of God, taking it in, and teaching ourselves to be more and more aware of the reality of all the characteristics until we do them as naturally as breathing. When your soul wells up in “Thank You!” to God, does that one time express your gratefulness? Certainly, it is good. But you can teach yourself, no matter your age, to remember to thank Him more than just one time when He has shown Himself involved in your needs. What has He done for you today? Did you say thank You? Yesterday? At some point during Thanksgiving, did you have some time set aside when you listed some of those things you are so very thankful Christ did for you this year?

Paul encourages us to incorporate gratefulness into our lives, so that no blessing comes our way without immediate thankfulness going up to God. Did you realize, in question 3, that thankfulness goes hand in hand with humility? Think of royalty, or movies where there are servants who labor long and hard to do their employer’s bidding. Do they usually hear “thank you”? No. It was the expectation that the service would be done to please the one who hired them. Do you say thank you to your spouse or friend for working all day, doing jobs around the house, or keeping meals prepared? Begin with those small things that show you realize you don’t deserve all the time and effort made on your behalf; your children will eventually see the “attitude of gratitude” and copy it. Soon it will become habitual, and you will carry it outside your walls into the world—and show them the difference as a true Christ-follower!

Key Verse: Colossians 3:17: And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (NKJV)

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MERCY TRIUMPHS!

Recently I could have bit a nail in two. You’ve been there. Which reminds me, one day I was sitting talking to my then-pastor, and lamented, “There’s not a day (or probably an hour) that goes by but that I sin!” He looked astounded, as though I had admitted to something like stealing the last bite of food a hungry family had. I just looked at him, wondering if he lived in the real world. With one glance he was telling me that he could not relate to what I had just said. Had we been Catholic, I would have suggested he go to confession and catch up.

Anyway, back to the nail. Steam was coming out my ears, but I still remembered to walk with my shoulders back, stomach in, chest out–a book on my head would have been adequate. Childhood training is hard to overcome. Heading for the door of the high-class business office, I grabbed the handle, only to have the door firmly stay in place–still locked. Apparently it was 9:29, and I had not even thought to check. Rather than turn and walk away, I yanked my foot back as if I were going to kick it through the door. At the same moment, the businessman on the other side unlocked it (I confess, I had not seen him), and calmly asked “Is this easier?” He was very sweet in the face of my intense (though well-controlled, except for the foot part) anger, and I vented for about ten minutes. I was there so long that my husband came to get me. He probably figured it was to be him, or the cops, and he preferred it be him. The truth was, I felt I was paying big bucks for useless results, and it was either say so, or burst open. I don’t doubt for a second, like the remark to my pastor, that you’ve been in the same situation, probably many times. I seldom get so furious, but there are times…

The agitation lasted every time it crossed my mind for the next several days, and as S.M. Lockridge said, “Then came Sunday.” If you want to truly know if God is at work in your church, do something wrong. If it comes out of the pulpit on Sunday, without the pastor knowing what you’ve been thinking, and hits you between the eyes, stabs in your gut, and steps on your toes, God’s there. My pastor began. Mercy. Love. Forgiveness. Restoration. You name it, he managed in the next 40 minutes to say it straight to me; the good thing was, he was saying it straight to some others as well.

It wasn’t so bad that I had gotten so angry–the situation called for righteous indignation as someone was letting an instrument of Satan hurt some children. That pushes the buttons of almost every mom and dad I know, at least those who are saved and living out their salvation. To add authorities whose hands are tied by red tape into the mix only hurts the innocent even more. But why didn’t I just turn it over to the Lord, and let Him work it out? Revenge is a human reaction that overcomes most of us at some time or other, isn’t it (at least if you’re honest)? But that doesn’t make it right. Revenge for a deed against someone who has hurt you can best be handled by giving it to God to fix. “I will repay,” He says.

Our testimony is important. I nearly blew mine with the person I talked to, until he understood my agony and frustration, and realized my anger was intense concern for justice to prevail. Otherwise, the next time he saw me, he would have labeled me (whatever…almost anything would have been sufficient.) It strongly reminded me that in the church we let frustrations and grudges affect our testimony, our name in the community, and perhaps, by way of social media, it can be heard around the world! Restoration between brothers and sisters in the church is critical to the health of the congregation. It brought to mind a memory from several years ago, when a beautiful woman I knew made a bad mistake in her life. Everyone knew it, and it became the subject of conversation throughout the community–and the church. Much later she returned to church, full of repentance and yearning for restoration, only to have one of the “pillars” say to her, “Whenever I see you, all I can think of is what you did.” She was devastated, especially so because the church is the one place where people who are sinners–forgiven but not yet perfect–should exercise mercy toward those who have acknowledged their sin and have sought forgiveness. The man had not learned that lesson, and his sin was as great as hers had been. Sin is sin.

Showing mercy to someone who does not deserve it, Proverbs tells us, is like heaping coals of fire on their heads. What a picture! And yet we are not to take pleasure in the sense that they are receiving what they deserve, for truly, we ourselves did not deserve the mercy that God Himself gave us when Jesus took our sins, had them nailed to His cross, and suffered for them. Would that we never sin! One day we won’t, but until then, remind yourself that mercy triumphs over judgment. Mercy matters. Greatly.

Get your notebook, a good beverage, and sit back in your easy chair–perhaps with friends, and click on the sermon for Sunday, October 29, from Thomas Road Baptist Church, and listen as Jonathan Falwell preaches on mercy, using Philemon as the text. Click on http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and choose the sermon “Mercy Matters.” It may help you the next time you are ready to bite a nail in two! The study below will help cement those points into your heart, and help you as you deal with all the chaos that is in our country.

TINY GIANTS: Mercy Matters                                                        Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

When someone hurts us—or injures someone dear to us—the idea of revenge may seem like a logical step, but it is not the right thing to do. Can you think of a time when you showed mercy rather than having reacted with revenge?

For the next three weeks we are going to look at the three shortest books in the Bible (according to the original Greek). We want to bring the wisdom that these small books contain to light and apply it to our lives, especially in these days of turmoil. As we look at the first book, Philemon, we want to focus on learning lessons from the Apostle Paul.

Focal Passages: Philemon.

Think About or Discuss:

MERCY MATTERS:

  The Right Testimony

  1. Read verses 4-7. Why was it so amazing that Paul, a prisoner in Rome, would hear of the faith of Philemon, who lived about 1,300 miles away? That would be about the same as someone in the Midwest hearing of you, living in an eastern state—without benefit of electronic equipment or motorized methods of transportation. Read Proverbs 22:1. Is this still true today?
  2. Paul said he “keeps hearing”: what did that indicate? What were some of the good reports Paul was hearing about Philemon?
  3. When Onesimus fled from Philemon, he must have known that once he had damaged his reputation, there was a possibility Philemon would not forgive him; most people would continue to think of his past actions whenever they saw him. Why are people still like that? Can you think of an experience from your past?

The Right Response

  1. Read verse 8. Why did Paul say he had confidence to ask a favor of Philemon? What was Paul’s other option? Why did he feel he would not have to command Philemon to carry out the favor?
  2. Read verse 10. He was now ready to bring his request to Philemon. What was it? Why did he call Onesimus his child? Why did he want to be certain these two were restored in relationship?

The Right Action

  1. Read verse 21; Paul had not lacked confidence to ask the favor of Philemon (verse 8) because he knew Philemon was in a right relationship with God. How did he expect Philemon to react when Onesimus eventually arrived in Colossae and sought out Philemon?
  2. How does this relate to the church today, as brothers or sisters harbor grudges or ill-feelings toward each other? What should they be doing? What Scriptures back up your answer? *(Listed at end of study.)

The Right Example

  1. Back in verse 1b-2, who was going to be hearing this letter from Paul? What impact would have been made on the early believers if Philemon had not been willing to forgive and forget?
  2. What should be your response for every negative action someone has taken against you?
  3. Close

Showing mercy to someone who has not merited it, perhaps by a deed done to us or someone we love, is one of the hardest actions for us to take as humans—and believers. Every part of our emotions become involved, and revenge is easy to focus on. Yet as Christ followers, we must overcome the desire to retaliate, and from the bottom of our heart, forgive. How do you take that step? It is not going to be a giant leap, overcoming all the animosity you have built up: it will be tiny steps forward. The best way, and perhaps the hardest, is to begin to pray for your enemy. Pray however the Lord leads, as long as it is in line with what Jesus would have done. Pray for their recognition of the hurt they have caused, for their conviction of the sin, or perhaps pray that God will lead them to see that what they’ve done needs forgiveness. In whatever manner you pray, if you do it daily, eventually you will find that the hatred is leaving you, little by little. It is impossible to pray for someone and continue to call them an enemy.

Pray for yourself, as well. Bitterness is like a weed that gets hold of your life, and, like poison ivy, keeps spreading (Eph. 4:31), defiling everyone in your immediate circle. But gradually you will be able to grant mercy to the one who has been your adversary, as you realize that you, too, were once full of trespasses and sins, and yet God reached down and gave you forgiveness that you did not deserve. If the one who has hurt you will not accept a restored relationship, remember that God is not going to forget the offense, and will discipline the person as only He knows best. His way is always right, His timing will be perfect, and He will perhaps save them. What if they come to you, as Onesimus did to Philemon, and ask forgiveness? Will you give it?

Memory Verse: Philemon 7: For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother. (NKJV)

*Matt. 18:15-17, 21-22; 1 John 2:9-11; Matt. 6:14-15; Col. 3:13

Helpful Websites: www.biblegateway.com; www.blueletterbible.org. Within both of those sites are resources such as original Greek or Hebrew, the meanings, Commentaries, and more study materials.

© Dana Bartekoske Heinemann

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DO YOU HAVE A SERVANT’S HEART?

The phone rang. Glancing at the caller ID, I saw it was my mother. I answered cheerfully, ready for one of our daily routine calls, sometimes lasting an hour or more.

She immediately launched into her reason: “I’m ready to come live with you.” The stun factor was probably about the same as when, after decades in Florida, we moved to central Virginia in July, and three short weeks later learned a terrific hurricane was barreling its way directly on a path through Virginia. Virginia? Seriously. We had weathered so many storms while in Florida (although we never got nonchalant about them), that June to November was a season we expected to be tumultuous. But mountainous Virginia? Hardly. However, it did come, destroyed much of our area, and left the small town in flooded ruins. I quickly envisioned my life changing in the same respect if Mother came to stay. We loved each other deeply, but the old adage, “Pitch your tents apart and keep your hearts together” fit well.

At the time I could not fathom any reason God would have chosen to put this on her heart. In simple, forthright terms, I rebelled, had a bad attitude, tried to talk her out of it, and reminded her of everything she would be leaving. That didn’t help: her mind was made up. I definitely wanted to honor her, but at a distance, and, I guess, on my terms. Sigh.

She came, and it was the chaos I feared. Bread on the counter, peanut butter jar left out, interruptions when I was focused on work…but slowly I saw dementia was setting in, and knew she had done the right thing, at the right time. Not that I accepted it any better–in fact, if anything, I felt I was totally unprepared to care for her. For instance, the first time I noticed she was having a hard time putting curlers in her newly washed hair. To any self-respecting hair-dresser, this must seem inconceivable, but I had always had a fetish about touching someone else’s hair! Even my mom’s. But it was washed, she couldn’t do it easily, so who else would? My husband? Ha. No offense intended, but he wouldn’t have a clue.

As time passed, I railed at each new situation that I “couldn’t” do: putting her into Depends, washing and rolling her hair, bathing her. It was after her death that I realized, with much humility, that God had known I did not have the heart of a servant, and He was going to use this situation to teach me some much needed lessons.

A couple of weeks ago, I realized He is still working on me. My beloved daughter, who lives near me, needs me to pick up her children one day a week from school, and they stay overnight with us. The next morning I take them to school, and usually get up at an early hour to have a quiet time before taking on the task of breakfast, dressing, car-riding, and more. The next afternoon I pick them up, and we ride toward another town where they need to be. As I meditated on this new turn my life had taken a year ago, as seemed as though God spoke directly to my heart. “You needed a reminder that you are put on this earth to serve, not to be served.” Wow–a real rocket punch (or whatever is the new vernacular) to the gut. “Back in my day,” as is the common phrase for older people, we would have said, we got hit below the belt. I saw the lessons with my mom had not lasted as well as God expected. I had not recognized these actions as “serving.” Now, on reflection, I realize that the lessons may have been learned better than I thought–as I thought back to the several years after my mom passed away, when I had worked to help supplement my daughter’s income while her husband stayed home, as one of the children explained to me, “playing video games and being on Facebook.” (A genuine quote from a then-7 year old). I was serving, but didn’t realize it. (However, I was also “enabling” someone who was living in complete rebellion against the Bible, as the verse says, “He [not she] who does not work, does not eat, and is worse than an unbeliever.” We need to be careful that our service is in line with the Bible.)

Service, or serving others, then, may not look like what you think it should. It may be hard, definitely takes some getting used to, and yet yields great rewards. Would that I could have my mom back again to apologize for the times I lagged in serving her needs! To fix her hair, cook her a meal, read her a book! But I still have my family to serve, my precious grandchildren (all of them!), and can serve them with a happy heart, a good attitude, and leave happy memories. At the same time I need to be alert to see the needs of those with whom I come into contact.

This past Sunday at Thomas Road Baptist Church, Pastor Jonathan Falwell preached on taking the next step in your relationship to Christ, and serving in your sphere of living. Join the congregation via your computer at http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and click on the sermon for October 22, 2017, “START: Taking the Next Step of Service.” Grab your notebook to keep a record of your thoughts, worship with the congregation, and learn how to be a servant. The sermon study below will cause you to dig a little deeper, revealing the attitude of serving as a commandment from Jesus Christ, for–if you are going to love Him, you will love people and want to help them as their needs are revealed to you! Pray that God would show you how.

START: Taking the Next Step of Service                                                                                      Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

If you learn of a need that someone has, what is your immediate response? Did you have to stop for a moment, or were you able to give a spontaneous answer?

This week we finish the series “START: Taking the Next Step from the Step You’re On.” We have been seeking God’s direction for this journey of faith we are living. We want to follow the example Jesus set by serving those whom we meet along our path. We want to condition ourselves to be alert to their needs, then meet those needs as we are able.

Focal Passages: John 13:4-17; Matthew 25:40; Philippians 2:3-4.

Think About or Discuss:

THE NEXT STEP OF SERVICE:

 Putting Jesus First

  1. Read the memory verse, John 13:15. Why should you learn to be a servant? Read Mark 10:44-45. What does that teach you?
  2. Read Matthew 25:37-40. What stands out as you read this passage? Were the “righteous” serving because they wanted to be noticed or because they wanted to show their love for Christ? Why does service have to start in the heart?

Putting Others First

  1. Think of some examples where you don’t exactly excel at putting others first, and share or write them in your notebook. (Did you say, “in traffic,” or “waiting in a line”?) How can you change these situations?
  2. Read Phil. 2:3-4. There are several suggestions of how to be more like Jesus in these two verses. What are they? Which of these do you find the hardest?

HOW?

With What You Have

  1. In verses 4-5 of John 13, what did Jesus need to perform the humble task of washing the feet of His disciples?
  2. Do you know the oft-quoted maxim about God’s calling and equipping?* (Answer is at the end). Use what He has already given you!
  3. What will happen if you wait until you feel you are prepared to serve before you can be useful to God?

With what you know

  1. Read verses 6-8 of John 13. The last phrase has a deeper meaning to Jesus than it did for the disciples. What was Jesus really saying?
  2. What should be the goal for every act of service you perform?

With Christ as your model

  1. Read verses 13-15. Why does Christ want you to serve others? Examine your acts of service to make certain your motive is to show the love of Christ.

WHAT’S NEXT?

 Pray

  1. Why should you pray? When you pray for the needs of others, are you also asking God to use you?

Offer

  1. What would happen if you prayed each morning that God would bring someone across your path who had a need, you see the need, and are able to meet it? Take that step of faith!

Try

  1. All believers have the responsibility to share the gospel, and to serve. In the Ice Breaker, you listed how you would react to a need. Now that you’ve had the sermon study, can you embellish on seeing a gift that might be more comfortable for you than you had thought? You may have to try more than once to find what niche is really yours.

Close

Serving someone sounds like an uncomfortable step of faith, doesn’t it? Yet it is a heart attitude God wants us to have, and He has said that we do it for His glory, not our own. We look into the eyes of those we meet and get a glimpse of their heart. If there is an obvious need, ask Him to reveal how you can help. Have you ever been behind someone in line at Walmart and they are digging for change to come up with sufficient money to pay for their groceries? You look, and see nothing but food. Don’t hesitate to hand the clerk the dollar in your hand! God will never let you go hungry for giving away what’s He’s given to you. Does someone have a yard that needs mowed? You don’t know their story, but you can take a half hour and push your mower down to their yard and mow. If you’re afraid they’ll take it wrong, take a basket of fresh-baked bread and a note to put on their porch. Give God the opportunity to start sending needs your way, and the satisfaction that comes will make you hunger for more and more occasions to help others. If you go on a short-term mission trip, prepare yourself to feel as though you barely got started when the time comes to leave! You will look at the elderly people and your heart will cry that they may go into a Christ-less eternity before someone else comes to tell them of Jesus. Let every day be a day of opportunity to serve your Lord, and to follow Him.

Memory Verse: John 13:15: For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. (NKJV)

*”God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called.”

Helpful Websites: www.biblegateway.com; www.blueletterbible.org. Within both of those sites are resources such as original Greek or Hebrew, the meanings, Commentaries, and more study materials.

© Woo Bing Siew

ID 5620355 | Dreamstime Stock Photo

Do YOU Talk to God?

The waiting room was active as patients impatiently waited for their name to be called. Some came through from the exam doors, with faces reflecting the news they carried: intense concern, relief from stress, anxious about more tests to come…there was no end to the different emotions. After having gone through this same procedure the year before, Christina knew what to expect.

It may seem odd to hear they were unable to do a biopsy on the suspicious activity that was causing concern, but in reality it happens often. Somehow doctors have been placed on that magical stair saved for those we hold in high regard, feeling as though they have extraordinary power. It doesn’t always happen like that, and this was one of the times. Surgery seemed the next best option: it would allow the doctor to remove any tissue or organs that he was concerned about, run a full biopsy, and then, if necessary remove any other tissue that seemed to merit concern. The surgery was scheduled.

As Christina waited for the day to approach, she spent much time in prayer that when the doctor went in, she would find nothing. It wasn’t a prayer with a mountain of surety that God would do a miracle, but one knowing that nothing was beyond His ability, if He chose. She was praying that His will would be done, and was trusting the doctor would have the wisdom from God to remove the problem, and subsequently heal her.

She was prepped for the surgery, and the gurney was rolled into OR. The doctor and assistants, ready for the removal of whatever was the basis for Christina’s problem, got the instruments to begin. When they got into the area where they knew the bad cells lurked, they were stunned: there was nothing–as in nothing–except normal internal body parts! All that had been causing her problems for two years was totally and completely gone. God had honored her prayer with a miracle!

Later, Christina talked to the doctor by phone, asking questions like “is this normal,” “does this happen often,” and more. The doctor admitted to being unable to explain the circumstance except to say she had to believe it was a miracle. As Christina shared her story with the doctor, I personally have to believe that it made an impact on the doctor, that the God Who created the universe, you, me, and everything in this world, finds it easy to do anything that gives Him pleasure, and at the same time demonstrates His grace and mercy on those who love Him. He always has been, and always will be, giving us what we don’t deserve!

This past Sunday, Jonathan Falwell preached on how much Prayer Matters! As Thomas Roaders listened, hopefully many gained insight into the relationship that is possible with our Father in heaven. No relationship can flourish without talking to each other, so listen to the message, do the study below, and get your inner “eyes” open to the dynamic friendship you can have with the Creator. He’s waiting to talk to you! Go to http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and click on “Start: Prayer Matters.” If you are alone, get a drink, an easy chair, and settle in with your notebook to listen to the entire service. If you have a friend or family who can join you, share the answers so that you dig deeper into God’s word. He’s just a word away!

START: Prayer Matters                                                                                                                             Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Have you ever met someone who was/is well-known and respected, possibly powerful, and became “tongue tied,” not being able to think of something to say? Afterwards, you may have felt foolish, and replayed the conversation in your mind, wishing you had been more ready for the encounter! Can you think of an example you can share, or write down if you’re alone?

This week the series “START” continues as we realize the truth that God—who cannot lie—says He wants a conversation with you on a personal basis. That He would care enough to form you in your mother’s womb, see every detail of your life (good and bad) from birth to death, and still desire a relationship with you, can completely blow your mind. Yet many often treat Him with flippancy, offering “prayers” that are more like a recitation than a conversation. Let’s see what His word says about the importance of prayer.

Focal Passages: 1 John 5:14-15; 1 Peter 5:6,7; Hebrews 4:14-16; James 5:16b; Luke 11:1-4, 17:17.

Discuss:

PRAYER MATTERS:

  1. Read 1 John 5:14-15. What do you mean when you use the word “if,” as in “if I go”? Why, then, do these verses say “if you ask,” and “if you know”?
  2. Assuming your heart is right with God’s heart, what does He promise? Are these verses a blanket promise you will get what you want?

Prayer is talking to God your Father:

  1. God is your Father if you are saved. In that case, how do you view prayer, and your ability to come with confidence before the Creator of the entire universe?
  2. Read 1 Peter 5:6-7. Do you ever wonder if God is like those people you sometimes talk to who give some of their attention to what you say, but not all? Does it astound you that He “hears” you?

Prayer is a conversation:

  1. Read Hebrews 4:14-16. In verse 16, how are you to come to Him? Do your children (if applicable) hesitate to tell you their needs? How does that relate?
  2. There are two sides in a conversation. After pouring out your heart, do you take any time to be quiet and see how He responds? If you don’t, why not?

Prayer is powerful:

  1. Read James 5:16b. Would God have this verse in Scripture if it were not true? How do you demonstrate that you believe it, as you pray?

HOW DO I PRAY?

  1. Read Luke 11:1-4. The disciples asked this question of Jesus. Therefore, you need to internalize it until you know exactly what Jesus meant.

Know Who God is:

  1. In verse 2a, what does “hallowed” mean? If you could describe God with one word, what would it be? Is this how you see Him as you pray?

Recognize the importance of God’s plan

  1. In verse 2b, you are not told that it is your will that will be done. Why is it of utmost importance that you bow to God’s will, both in your prayers, and in your life?

Know that God cares about YOU:

  1. Read verse 3. Jesus Himself says you need to ask for your “daily bread.” God cares so much about you that He wants to satisfy your daily needs. How often was the manna in the wilderness given? Why would He want you to ask daily?

Be in the right spiritual place for prayer:

  1. Read John 9:31. What must your lifestyle be like for God to hear your prayers? Why is it important that your life be “holy” as He is holy? How does 1 John 1:9 fit in here? If you are His child, how does He view you?

Be in the right attitude for prayer:

  1. Read verse 11:4. What happens when you have unforgiveness for others?

Seek God’s leading in your life:

  1. How do you do this? Read 11:4c. Why should you want what God wants?

Be thankful for everything:

  1. Developing an attitude of gratitude is the key to being in God’s will. Why is that true?                                                                                                                               Close                                                                                                                      Cultivating a deep and meaningful prayer life is essential if you want a close relationship with your heavenly Father. As has been mentioned in numerous ways often, no relationship, whether with a spouse, your child, a family member, etc., will ever morph into a quality bond unless time is invested by conversation. If one side does all the talking, without giving the other an opportunity for answering and sharing equally, the relationship is nothing more than a power trip. There is so much to learn about prayer in these passages, but the most obvious is that your heart must be in a condition where sins are confessed, a lifestyle is God-centered, no bitterness resides against your fellow man—in essence, you are in a right relationship with Him.  You cannot be living in sin and present your requests, expecting Him to overlook the things you are doing that are in direct opposition to His word. Paul wrote in Romans 6:1, “What? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid!” Paul uses the most forceful word in Greek to imply “Absolutely Not” to emphasize that your dependence on the relationship must be clean. “Be holy, as He is holy.” Do you want Him to answer your deepest needs? Then begin by lining up your life with His, desiring His will in all things, and being fervent with your prayer life. Above all, learn to be grateful for everything He blesses you with. As you do, you will find contentment, knowing He hears you, is answering in His time frame, and is doing what is best. He sees the end, not the tunnel you’re in!  Trust Him.

Memory Verse: 1 John 5:14: Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. (NKJV)

Helpful Websites: www.biblegateway.com; www.blueletterbible.org. Within both of those sites there are resources such as Original Greek or Hebrew, the meanings, Commentaries, and more study materials.

All glory and praise to God the Father for sending a miracle to Christina, and a big thank you to Christina Wolfe-Hillis for sharing her amazing story!

 

There is POWER in God’s Word!

The cherry credenza/computer desk was beautiful, and I was almost finished! I was going to be so proud of this lovely piece of furniture, and was thrilled with the number of  cubby holes, drawers, and shelves that would take care of the PC, a large monitor (or two!), a printer–all the things one has to have to be “Technologically Correct” [sic]. Picking up the screwdriver, I quickly unscrewed the last shelf I had put on backwards and fixed it. Looking around the floor, my glance spied a cherry piece that was buried on the couch, then some packing materials seemed to have been thrown on top. Ugh! Even worse–it wasn’t ONE piece, it was FOUR! Where on earth did they go?? Looking at the numerous holes in the boards I had put together, I sought to locate something that didn’t look, well, quite correct… It wasn’t hard to spot several. Digging out the Instruction Sheet, and simultaneously placing the 4 pieces beside me, I tried to find what they were, and where they should have gone. Double ugh. Out of 43 steps and several thousand nuts, turn screws, pieces of wood, etc., these went on somewhere around Steps 4, 7, 11 and 18. You have got to be kidding. I was so glad my husband wasn’t around–he gets a laugh out of the pieces I generally have left over, and you would think I had learned my lesson that any company who puts an Instruction Sheet in with their product might be doing so with good reason. I haven’t. I always figure logic and experience, guided by intelligence, will get the job done quickly and correctly. Obviously one of the three is misguided..

My final decision: I’ll try to remember (next time) to look at the step-by-step directions. Of course by then, I’ll probably have forgotten this experience, and use logic all over again. I also decided that the system probably really didn’t need these pieces, but I’ll keep them just in case.

Somehow, in my twisted maze of connecting dots, it made me recall many years ago when my husband and our pastor would go visiting on Tuesday nights. On this particular evening they went to the house of someone who had visited the church for the first time on the past Sunday, and indicated they would like a visit from the pastor. As they were ushered into the living room, there, laying nicely displayed on the coffee table, was a Bible. The pastor remarked about it, and made a comment about the translation. The homeowner, a man, said, “Yes, we keep it right there. It sometimes encourages me just to lay my hand on it as I walk through the living room.” Seriously. He really said that. When my husband told me of the visit, all I could think of was the analogy of having a large bottle of Multi-Vitamins sitting there, and making the same remark. Some things aren’t meant for touching, I’ll grant you that, but other things are going to be useless to you unless you take what is inside into your “innards.” In the case of the Bible, into your heart and mind, the vitamins into your body. Rubbing the outside of either is foolishness carried to an extreme.

This past Sunday Pastor Jonathan Falwell preached on the POWER that is found in the Word of God. As he spoke, I briefly reflected on my enormous book collection–spanning the 1800’s, 1900’s and 2000’s. Only one grandchild has asked for the collection to be willed to her. One set of books, by Arthur Maxwell, (Bedtime Stories), brings back tons of memories, as I would sit on the floor at my aunt’s house, behind a chair (don’t ask), and read story after story. Recently I got one of the volumes out to read to two younger grandchildren. I found myself having to constantly change words or phrases, as the millennial generation has no clue (at least if they inherited MY genes) what an ironing board is, what a clothesline is, and various and sundry other situations that they cannot identify with! In other words, can you imagine how hard it would be to write a book that would be “living,” and pertinent to all generations from 4000 BC, to 2000 AD? (Yes, I’m very aware it is now BCE and CE. I don’t go there.) I recently read a Christian suspense that was written before cell phones became the way of life. They were using their landline, and only occasionally used their cell. I actually looked back to the date the book was copyrighted (not that long ago), knowing the author probably had no idea life would begin revolving around the cell phone as the early 2000’s passed. The Bible, as Pastor Falwell quoted A. W. Tozer, is “God’s present VOICE, speaking to us!” It is as valuable as an instruction sheet, a GPS, or a map. We desperately need what is inside of its covers in order to function in this chaotic world, so full of turmoil and sorrow, as we saw the news of Las Vegas yesterday.

So, if you’re ready, grab a drink, your notebook, and hop in an easy chair, and watch the sermon from Sunday, October 1, at http://www.trbc.org/sermon-archive, and choose “START: The Power of the Word.” The study and notes below will help you delve a little deeper into the Bible, and writing out your thoughts will cement them more firmly in your mind. If you have a friend with you, do the study together, but in any case, enjoy and grow! Let it be the power that navigates you through the mayhem and mess that will come into your life this week.

START: The Power of the Word                                                                                          October 1, 2017                                                                                                                    Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

If you’ve been around small children, you no doubt realize that a 2 or 3 year old can disappear or get into something they shouldn’t within seconds! You have to keep your “radar” out constantly, knowing exactly what they were doing. Can you  think of a time or story when your watchfulness paid off? If you’re alone, write your thoughts in your notebook.

Today we continue the series “START,” as we learn to recognize the different ways God directs us, guiding us to the next step in our walk with Him—and caring for us. Last week we made certain we are His child; this week we want to absorb what a perfect Father He is, constantly watching out for us, and giving us guidance through His word.

Focal Passages: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12; Psalm 119:11, 105; James 1:22-25;1 Corinthians 15:3-4.

Think About or Discuss:

THE POWER OF THE WORD:

  1. Read Hebrews 4:12. What attributes does the Bible have?
  2. What does it mean that the Bible is “living?”

Read What It Says:

  1. Read 2 Tim. 3:16a. What is meant that the Scripture is “inspired”?
  2. The Bible is God, speaking to you! How does that excite you?
  3. What are some reasons that about 80% of “church goers” do not read their Bible daily, or perhaps not at all?

Quote by A. W. Tozer: [The Bible] is God’s present Voice which makes His written word all powerful! Otherwise it should be locked in slumber within the covers of a Book.”

Learn What It Means:

  1. Read verse 16b. There is a difference in reading the Bible to check it off of your “to do” list, as opposed to studying it to learn what God wants to say to you. If you do not understand a verse, what sources are available to help you? (There is a list at the end).
  2. Read 2 Peter 1:2-4. According to these verses, why is it so necessary that you take time to study the Scriptures?

Put It Into Practice:

  1. Read verses 16c, 17. Why should you be instructed in the teaching of the Word? How do you believe you can handle the things the world throws at you, if you don’t know how God wants you to react?
  2. Read James 1:22-25. If you are going to be called by His name, how does He want you to act?

Close

Do you stand in awe that a book written 2000-6000 years ago can prove to be applicable to every generation, for doctrine (guidance for being taught), reproof (an expression of disapproval), correction and instruction in righteousness? To the one who loves the Lord and wants a deeper relationship, nothing compares with the Bible, as well as your quiet time alone with Him when you can focus on His Word. It should be compared to the same discipline you might have for working out, eating healthy meals, romancing or spending quality time with those you love. Be aware that Satan will throw many curve balls at you (phone calls, interruptions, etc.) to break your concentration! If you read it year after year, decide to study it with different goals so it never becomes “ordinary”: perhaps look for prayers as you read one year, and write them in a notebook; another year focus on the promises that are contained within the pages as God speaks. If you read a chapter or section, and find your attention has wavered, go back and re-read it. Seek out Life Groups or Bible Studies that will help you understand it. It will generate a feeling of humility, of love, and a greater idea of what God has done for you, to read His word and put your name in places that refer to mankind. Can you imagine a Navy SEAL, or an Army Green Beret, or a Marine, being slack in their training, or ashamed to confess their occupation? Certainly not! And if you are as dedicated to God as a soldier is to his position, you will do all you can to be a walking testimony. Eventually, realizing that He truly is residing within you as God, the Holy Spirit, you should come to the place where you talk to Him often during your day, and He will become so much more to you—the best friend you could ever have.

Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16: All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. (NKJV)

Notable quotes: A. W. Tozer: “Reading the Word of God is the only way to discover the Will of God. If you’re trying to discover God’s Will for your life without reading God’s Word for your life, you’re wasting your time.”  “God did not write a book and send it by messenger to be read at a distance by unaided minds. He spoke a Book and lives in His spoken words, constantly speaking His words and causing the power of them to persist across the years.”

*Ed Stetzer, September 13, 2012

Helpful Websites: www.biblegateway.com; www.blueletterbible.org. Within both of those sites there are resources such as Original Greek or Hebrew, the meanings, Commentaries, and more study materials.