4 10 47 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4d33872973221b9d0d7638307fd5da2d.jpeg 803f1ba2e0a776b45d11a4209f78fca8 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8bf2bffd8ccf06fba2e20a747750482f.mp4 4a88c0e48d87e0acecd0e0a9db29addd Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound What is Your Story? Psalm 35:27,28 A guy shows up late for work. The boss yells, “You shoulda been here at 8:30!” He replies, “Why? What happened at 8:30?” That is SO my work world. I get to work super early – but even 2 hrs later I see people driving in to work, and dragging like they have been forced to show up before noon. You hear people say things like, “I just can’t seem to get out of bed. I just can’t ever get here on time.” “Clear Your Mind of ‘Can’t’” When we don’t live up to our potential, we do everyone a disservice – including the Lord. We tell ourselves we “can’t” do something until it simply becomes part of our internal programming. It becomes part of our story. Tony: We all have our own story. And we stay attached to our story. This can stop us from growing and living. You wanna make your life better? Change your story, change your life. TRUTH: There is a core story that governs your actions. ( ) It controls your decision-making. It is either propelling you forward or holding you back. It tells you what you can do – and what you can NOT do. You story may say things like: ‘I’m not good enough. I don’t matter. There is something wrong with me.’ Your story may come from how you were raised… and what you were told. Your story may have been birthed by times of great hurt…. maybe from someone you really loved. Maybe a past failure created your story. Understand this: You may have a story – but you are not your story. Your story can change. Who we are is what we have become up until now. Who we can become is based on what we believe and do with the days that follow – starting today. Today is the 4th Sunday of the Lenten Season. What did you give up for Lent? ? What do you say today we choose to give up our story? Clear your mind of “can’t” and embrace the truth about who you are in Christ. Psalm 35:27 - Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, “Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.” “Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.” God is glorified when we let go of our limitations and choose to serve Him to our fullest. MSG: “GOD is great—everything works together for good for his servant. I’ll tell the world how great and good you are, I’ll shout Hallelujah all day, every day.” Everyone has an opinion about you. They’re ALL wrong. YOU have an opinion about yourself that is at best, very limiting. Raise the bar higher than your opinion. (this message is only for those who still want to make a difference with their existence) Expand your horizons – you owe it to the rest of us. “Let the LORD be magnified “ “How great is the LORD!” “The LORD be exalted” 1 Cor 10:31 - “ …do all things to the glory of God.” Measuring Cup (different sizes) Which measuring cup are you using to pour your life out with? 2 Tim 4:6 – “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering… “ If your measuring cup based on other peoples’ performance, you will never come close to your potential. Because you are unique in this world. A peculiar person. ;) Comparison is a deadly trap that limits our potential. Hold yourself up to a higher standard. We magnify God when we humble ourselves and let Him work through us. “Your purpose is to become a vessel God can use for His glory.” Give up your story about what is possible for GOD to do through you. “The end of your strength is the beginning of GOD’s” God wants to do something new in you today, but that means you may have to give up something old. “If you let your present results control your thinking you will create more of the same.” Ever find yourself being annoyed by the radio or the television and then you finally get the revelation that all you have to do is turn it off? The thoughts that say “you are not enough” are just old recordings. You can turn them off. ( ) Clear your mind of “can’t” and embrace the truth about who you are in Christ. “Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.” Determine that now – today – you will begin to magnify the Lord in all areas of your life. It is a form of surrender. Your ultimate Lenten sacrifice Surrender is a daily practice. Sometimes it means just getting down on your knees and praying to be willing to receive guidance from a higher power. Sometimes, it means surrendering fear and surrendering to the power of God’s love. The point of surrender is to let go of the negative emotions that keep you in a fearful state. Trusting GOD to work in and through you. You have a story – but you are NOT your story. Be willing to turn the page today. I’m using the word “today” a lot because today is all we have to work with. A delayed decision is not a decision at all (is it?) Carpe Diem Beginning TODAY you can change the stories that you constantly tell yourself. Col 3:16 – “Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” The Message of Christ is the message of your total redemption. 1 Cor 1:24 “…Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.” Spurgeon: Christ's gospel is a thing of divine power. Do you want proofs of it? Ye shall not go far. How could Christ's gospel have been established in this world as it was, if it had not in itself intrinsic might? By whom was it spread? … by learned doctors, by fierce warriors, … by prophets? No; by fishermen, untaught, unlettered; save as the Spirit gave them utterance, not knowing how to preach or speak. How did they spread it? By the bayonet, by their swords … did they convert men by force, by law, by might? Ah I no. Nothing but their simple words, their unvarnished eloquence, their rough declamation, their unhewn oratory; these it was, which, by the blessing of God's Spirit, carried the gospel round the world within a century after the death of its founder. (paraphrase) Do you believe it? Romans 10:14: But people will never ask Christ to help them if they have not believed in him. And they will never believe in him if they have not heard about him. And they will not hear about him unless somebody tells God's message to them. When we feel a message had no impact – do we blame the seed – or do we blame the soil (heart) that received it? Don’t be afraid to investigate your own doubts – but, by all means, do it with a hunger for the Truth. Col 3:16: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you…” This verse is found in the letter of Paul to the Colossians, where he is encouraging the believers to live a life that reflects their faith in Christ. The phrase "dwell in you richly" suggests that the word of Christ should not just be a passing thought or a surface-level knowledge, but should be deeply embedded in our hearts, minds, and lives. Let the word of Christ live in you richly, flooding you with all wisdom. Apply the Scriptures as you teach and instruct one another with the Psalms, and with festive praises, and with prophetic songs given to you spontaneously by the Spirit, so sing to God with all your hearts! Change your heart – change your story. The Future is Unwritten. “Mis-living our lives” When we think about the future, do we feel peace and confidence, or do we feel anxiety? Anxiety comes from a sense of lack or inadequacy. (something is missing) If we establish our completeness, we approach the future knowing that whatever we truly need will come to us through that completeness we have in Christ. “Mercy is always an invitation to a better life.” Psalm 35:27 - Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, “Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.” GOD’s righteous cause is carried out by His people who have humbled themselves and submitted to HIS Power in order to fulfill the mission HE has put before them. ? Do you believe it? Psalm 103:5: “He satisfies our desires with good things…” Will you let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly? Will you replace the old limitations with God’s New Covenant promises? Col 3:10: For you have acquired new creation life which is continually being renewed into the likeness of the One who created you; giving you the full revelation of God. Can you choose to give up your story today about why you can’t do something that GOD has said you can do? Will you replace the failures of the past with the total victory of the cross? Can you become still and know that God is with you now, and that, in and through Him, all things are possible. …and you can be whole and complete in Him? 2 Peter 1:3,4: “By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.” Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource What is Your Story? 你的自叙是什么？ Description An account of the resource Psalm 35:27,28: Let them shout for joy and be glad that favor my righteous cause; yea, let them say continually, “Let the LORD be magnified who hath pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.” And my tongue shall speak of Thy righteousness and of Thy praise all the day long. 诗篇 35:27,28: 愿盼望我冤屈得雪的人扬声欢呼！愿他们常说：“耶和华当受尊崇！ 祂乐意赐福给自己的仆人。” 我要诉说你的公义，终日赞美你。(page 914) 1 Corinthians 10:31: So, then, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do everything to God’s glory. 哥林多前书 10:31: 所以，你们或吃或喝，无论做什么，都要为上帝的荣耀而做 (page 1860) 2 Timothy 4:6: For I am already being poured out as a drink-offering; my departure time has arrived. 提 摩 太 後 書 4:6: 我的生命如同奉献在祭坛上的酒正倾倒出来，我离世的日子快要到了。(page 1932) Col 3:16: Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 歌罗西书 3:16: 要将基督的话丰丰富富地存在心里，用各样智慧彼此教导，互相劝诫，以感恩的心用诗篇、圣乐、灵歌颂赞上帝。 (page 1911) 1 Cor 1:24: …but to those who are called, Jews and Greeks alike, the Messiah—God’s power and God’s wisdom. 歌 林 多 前 書 1:24: 但是对那些受到召唤的人，不论是犹太人还是非犹太人（希腊人），基督是上帝的力量和智慧。 (page 1848) Col 3:10: For you have acquired new creation life which is continually being renewed into the likeness of the One who created you; giving you the full revelation of God. 歌 羅 西 書 3:10: 换上了新我。新我要在创世主的形象中不断地更新，以便充分地认识他。 (page 1911) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/06/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/512eca45192514f7a7c271eea87ae12c.jpeg aba1bda322e25c1789d763519d624935 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/091df1156c5ab07f16c80eaa681389dc.mp4 ec500cb4de32ff2f0401bfac675a3920 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Resurrection Revelation John 20:11-18 There’s a well-known story about a famous violinist who took his $3.5 million Stradivarius onto a platform of a Washington DC subway and started playing music. He was dressed in a T-shirt and a ball cap. Joshua Bell was accustomed to playing for packed concert halls and getting paid $1,000 a minute. During his 43-minute solo concert in the subway a total of 1097 people passed by. But only seven people stopped to listen. He earned $32 in change. J.T. Tillman, a computer specialist, was one of the people who walked by. He said, “I didn’t think nothing of it, just a guy trying to make a couple of bucks.” Tillman would’ve given him some cash, but he spent all his money on the lotto. When he was told that he stiffed one of the best musicians in the world, he asked, “Is he ever going to play around here again?” The reporter said, “Yeah, but you’re going to have to pay a lot to hear him.” Exactly one person recognized Joshua Bell. Her name was Stacy. She positioned herself 10 feet away from Bell, front row, center. She had a huge grin on her face. She said, “It was the most astonishing thing I’ve ever seen in Washington. Joshua Bell was standing there playing at rush-hour, and people were not stopping, and not even looking, and some more flipping quarters at him! Quarters! I was thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, what kind of a city do I live in that this could happen?’” It’s not what we see – it’s what we perceive (what LENS are you looking through?) “the eyes of your heart being enlightened” John 13: Then Jesus was moved deeply in his spirit. Looking at his disciples, he announced, “I tell you the truth—one of you is about to betray me.” John asked: “Master, who is it?” Jesus: “The one I give this piece of bread to after I’ve dipped it in the bowl,” Jesus replied When Jesus gave the bread to Judas, none of the others connected it with what He had just said! John 13:26, Jesus tells his disciples that he will give a morsel of bread to the one who will betray him. He then dips the morsel and hands it to Judas Iscariot. vs 28: But no one at the meal understood why Jesus said this to him. John 12:16: Now Jesus’ disciples didn’t fully understand the importance of what was taking place, but after he was raised and exalted into glory, they understood how Jesus fulfilled all the prophecies in the Scriptures that were written about him. Do we have an intellectual understanding – or do we have a revelation? Today on Resurrection Sunday, may we truly have a Resurrection Revelation Eph 5:14: “Awake, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.” “flesh and blood hath not revealed this” Matthew 13:15: Their minds are dull and slow to perceive, their ears are plugged and are hard of hearing, and they have deliberately shut their eyes to the truth. Otherwise they would open their eyes to see, and open their ears to hear, and open their minds to understand. Then they would turn to me and I would instantly heal them. We need a resurrection revelation. It is not something we see with our natural eyes. It is spiritually discerned, and revealed by Holy Spirit. Start this Resurrection Sunday – and in affect – your New Life – with this Divine Revelation: 2 Cor 5:19: God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them. And he has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation. Christians should be the people of The Way. Light Bearers. “We are offering hope, dignity, mercy and love.” WE have all been give the ministry of sharing the Good News about Jesus with everyone Col 2:14: “ …he canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross.” We’re here to give others the hope and confidence of a better life We look beyond ourselves and we become confident in God’s Gift of Divine Mercy “Mercy is always an invitation to a better life.” The Resurrection Revelation can change everything for you As Believers – as followers of Jesus - You are “risen with Christ” Once we get that revelation living in our hearts, our next job is to share it with the whole world. Eph 1:18: I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, “flooding you with light, until you experience the full revelation of the hope of his calling” • Open the eyes of my heart, Lord Open the eyes of my heart I want to see You I want to see You To see You high and lifted up Shinin' in the light of Your glory Pour out Your power and love As we sing holy, holy, holy Phil Pringle: Dead for Nothing? “We are completely set free from sin through Christ’s death” “Everything keeping us from God has been removed by Jesus through His blood.” Romans 6:14: For sin shall not have dominion over you, for ye are not under the law, but under grace. A Resurrection Revelation is a spiritual awakening to what Jesus paid the price for you and I to have. When you have a true Resurrection Revelation, and you understand our Redemption, our New Covenant – if you love God and walk in the Fear of the Lord, you will never minimize what Jesus has won for us in His crucifixion. 1 Peter 2:24: “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” Jesus said “according to your faith let it be to you.” (Matt 9:29) How can we have faith for things we don’t know? How can we know unless we hear it? How can we hear it unless someone shares the whole truth with us? Jesus was disruptive in His time on earth Jesus is still disruptive in 2025 – He is calling us out of our complacency. Romans 13:11: now it is high time to awaken out of sleep; for now is our salvation nearer than when we first believed. Today is Resurrection Sunday. After the resurrection, Jesus would soon ascend into heaven. John 16:7: But here’s the truth: It’s to your advantage that I go away… …for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you. (Jesus was referring to the Holy Spirit, Who would come on the Day of Pentecost when all in the upper room received the baptism of the Holy Spirt and Fire) Luke 24:49: I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high. What Jesus promised was not a lesser form of Himself, but all the fullness Eph 3:19: “…that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” Jesus is the True Vine. We are the branches. Apart from Him we can do nothing. But yes, we have our part to play Jesus said: “According to your faith let it be done to you” When Jesus visited His hometown we read: Matt 13:58: And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief. Faith comes by hearing… Brothers and sisters in Christ: May our hearts become New Wineskins to receive the Word of God. Eph 4:13: until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. “ … until we all experience the fullness of what it means to know the Son of God” May we truly have a Resurrection Revelation this Easter morning. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Resurrection Revelation 复活启示 Description An account of the resource John 20:16: Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). 約 翰 福 音 20:16: 耶稣对她说∶“马利亚！”她转过身，用希伯来语叫道∶“拉波尼！”（意思是老师）(page 1759) Eph 5:14: Awake, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. 以弗所书 5:14: 因为光能使一切显明出来。因此有人说：“沉睡的人啊，醒来吧！从死人中起来吧，基督要光照你了！” (page 1899) Matthew 13:15: Their minds are dull and slow to perceive, their ears are plugged and are hard of hearing, and they have deliberately shut their eyes to the truth. Otherwise they would open their eyes to see, and open their ears to hear, and open their minds to understand. Then they would turn to me and I would instantly heal them. 马太福音 13:15: 因为这些人心灵麻木，耳朵发背，眼睛昏花，以致眼睛看不见，耳朵听不见，心里不明白，无法回心转意，得不到我的医治。(page 1580) Col 2:14: “ …he canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross.” 歌 羅 西 書 2:14: 他取消了对我们不利和反对我们的记录，把它钉在十字架上毁掉了它。(page 1910) Eph 1:18: I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people 以弗所书 1:18: 我也求上帝照亮你们心中的眼睛，使你们知道祂的呼召给你们带来了何等的盼望，祂应许赐给众圣徒的产业有何等丰富的荣耀 (page 1895) Romans 6:14: For sin shall not have dominion over you, for ye are not under the law, but under grace. 罗马书 6:14: 罪不能再主宰你们，因为你们已经不在律法之下，而是在恩典之中。 (page 1829) Revelation 1 Peter 2:24 - "He himself bore our sins" in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by his wounds you have been healed." 彼 得 前 書 2:24: 基督在十字架上的身体负载着我们的罪孽，为了让我们死于我们的罪孽，而为义而生。他的创伤，使你们得到治愈 他拯救了我们，不是因为我们的行为，而是靠他的怜悯、重生的洗礼和使我们更新的圣灵。(page 1936) Romans 13:11: now it is high time to awaken out of sleep; for now is our salvation nearer than when we first believed. 羅 馬 書 13:11: 你们知道我们处在一个重要的时代，所以我说了这番话。现在是应该从沉睡中醒来的时候了，因为现在我们的拯救比最初相信时更接近我们了。(page 1841) Luke 24:49: I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high. 路加福音 24:49: 我要把我父所应许的赐给你们。不过，你们要留在城里，直到你们得到天上来的能力。(page 1715) Eph 3:19: …and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 以弗所书 3:19: 并知道基督的爱是远超过人所能理解的爱，好叫上帝无限的丰富充满你们。(page 1897) Matt 13:58: And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief. 马太福音 13:58: 因为他们不信，耶稣就没有在那里多行神迹。 Eph 4:13: until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. 以弗所书 4:13: 直到我们对上帝的儿子有一致的信仰和认识，逐渐成熟，达到基督那样完美的生命。(page 1898) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/20/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/35ec1f34a88aed20055910266c62908b.jpeg e291d9e6c6feaca79815e2953867993b https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/defeeed4e32a913aa37be65a05f05d2a.mp4 c3df09c164dc0129705d8f66a8ae0869 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Beijing Diaries – Part One Psalm 102:12,13 “When I was younger - so much younger than today I never needed anybody's help in any way But now these days are gone and I'm not so self-assured …(and now) my life has changed in oh so many ways My independence seems to vanish in the haze…” Sometimes (most times?) life doesn’t always turn out the way you planned • Sometimes there are unexpected challenges Sometimes there are unexpected surprises Both of these can teach us a lot if we are willing to be teachable “What kind of fool am I?” When you find yourself on the other side of the world, essentially all alone, isolated from the comfort of your own language, shut out from social media, and blocked from accessing any money or even credit, you have to stop and ask yourself this question Despite all my best efforts and plans, this was exactly where I found myself in Beijing China. I lived almost two weeks with just one dollar in my wallet. I won’t bother with the details (for now) but this was a real, and very distressing situation that I actually found myself in. When all transactions are handled through the apps on your cellphone and yours won’t work, you are in big trouble. Thankfully, my hotel accepted my credit card or I would have been literally homeless and out on the street on top of everything else. If this sounds like fun, add to that the fact that I do not speak proper Mandarin and my translator would not work, and you have a real party on your hands. PSALMS 102: From Tears to Praise A prayer for those who are overwhelmed and for all the discouraged who come to pour out their hearts before the Lord Psalm 102:12,13: But then I remember that you, O Lord, still sit enthroned as King over all! The fame of your name will be revealed to every generation. I know you are about to arise and show your tender love to Zion. Now is the time, Lord, for your compassion and mercy to be poured out— the appointed time has come for your prophetic promises to be fulfilled! Ok – so let’s backup for moment and reflect on how all this got started… Most of you know the excitement I have had about this supposedly well-planned journey to China. We have shared this progressive journey since the start, when I first announced my intention to visit China. You joined me in my enthusiasm, you shared the vision for what was to be accomplished with God’s help, you lifted me up in prayer, and you planted very generous seeds into the costs for this to happen. Our sister church overseas was doing the same things for this from their side of the planet. Not long after leaving the safety on an international airport, and despite ATT’s assurance that all would be fine, I soon found myself powerless to communicate or take care of my basic needs Like so many times, the priceless lessons we learn come from “face time” The hardest moments occurred when my attention had been diverted to the circumstances, instead of my all-sufficient source Jesus said (Matt 6:8) “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” My focus would need to promptly redirect to: • God’s Presence • His Peace. His Provision. • His Power. His Protection. Isaiah 26:3 : Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. (as I mentioned previously) I won’t bother with the details (for now) but this was a real, and very distressing situation that I actually found myself in. I got very little sleep, and the weight of it all was already taking a toll when I got a much needed 1am call from my best friend and mentor (Eddie) telling me that help was on the way from his son in Shanghai. (thankful pause) To make the story short, not only was I always in good hands from Eddie’s family and my Beijing brothers and sisters, but I was treated with such a wonderful overflow of love and generosity that I know I will never be the same again. Nothing was every missing. Nothing. “God is right on time” and so were His people. …(and now) my life has changed in oh so many ways My independence seems to vanish in the haze…” It’s ok to find yourself dependent on God. Phil 4:19: And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. God uses people So many of you were there for me in any and every way you could My local church family planted the seeds of prayers and finances to make the journey possible My far east family followed-up with every form of support imaginable Holly came first, giving me the data and technology I needed to once again talk to people with my phone (although most of the usual avenues had been cut-off) Then my precious friends began to take me places to see new sites and enjoy amazing foods everywhere we went My brothers and sisters began to arrive by train and airplane to make it possible for us to get together meet for the very first time. One of the names for God is Jehovah Shalom The word peace is the Hebrew word shalom, which speaks of wholeness; nothing missing and nothing broken. The word shalom encompasses health, security, good conditions, success, comfort, safety, happiness, wellness, wholeness, and soundness. It reassures us that everything is all right, it gives a sense of well-being, and removes all concern. It tells us we will come out of any circumstance unharmed. It is a picture of a harmonious state of soul and mind and speaks of fulfillment, satisfaction, and contentment. There is quite a lot in this one little word shalom! The phrase "nothing missing, nothing broken" typically signifies a state of completeness, wholeness, and lack of damage. Col 2:10 tells us “So you also are complete through your union with Christ…” Shalom suggests everything is in its proper place, accounted for, and in good condition. It can also be used in a more spiritual context, referring to a state of peace and contentment, free from any sense of incompleteness or brokenness. I am notorious for having unpopular, annoying old songs running through my brain …but this time it was a precious Charles Wesley hymn that kept running thorough my head – and even out of my mouth – for several of those days Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia! Earth and heaven in chorus say, Alleluia! Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia! Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia! As Believers – we are more than conquerors – we are Risen with Christ He is Emmanuel – God With Us He will never leave us nor forsake us! Heb 13:5: God has said, “I will never fail you. (I will never leave you) I will never abandon you.” Psalm 126: It was like a dream come true when you freed us from our bondage and brought us back to Zion! We laughed and laughed and overflowed with gladness. We were left shouting for joy and singing your praise. All the nations saw it and joined in, saying, “The Lord has done great miracles for them!” Yes, he did mighty miracles and we are overjoyed! Now, Lord, do it again! Restore us to our former glory! May streams of your refreshing flow over us until our dry hearts are drenched again. Those who sow their tears as seeds will reap a harvest with joyful shouts of glee. They may weep as they go out carrying their seed to sow, but they will return with joyful laughter and shouting with gladness as they bring back armloads of blessing and a harvest overflowing! Psalm 40:3: He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the LORD. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Beijing Diaries – Part One 北京日记 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/04/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/a6d5e297cd3aa3733f31519ff508f7a5.jpeg 8705cf5c9d381700cb3ad14d0c3c5597 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/a31d4f56306db552afd815ec49f1e57f.mp4 5d0e772e604b14d056d119e57e666cbe Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Beijing Diaries – Part Two 1 John 4:16 I returned from China 9 days ago. It has taken me a while to regain my energy and feel like myself again. …In fact, it has been very challenging. I have been on this planet many decades now, but I feel like I am just getting started on what I want to achieve - what I feel God has in store for me to do. Col 1:28-29: Christ is our message! We preach to awaken hearts and bring every person into the full understanding of truth. It has become my inspiration and passion in ministry to labor with a tireless intensity, with his power flowing through me, to present to every believer the revelation of being his perfect one in Jesus Christ. If you don’t feel that way, too, I am hoping something will stir in you even as we share in God’s Word together today. My purpose form this message today is to convince us of two things: 1. God Loves Us. (more than we can comprehend) 2. We can trust God because we know He loves us. We can come to Him and ask for help in completing our Divine Mission – living out our true purpose in life. Early last week as I studied and searched and meditated on God’s Word, these words from 1 John 4 really spoke to me: “We have known and believed the love of Jesus Christ” 1 John 4:16: So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. This resonated with me, and reinforced the resounding message that I shared and received so often while in Beijing with my precious friends there: (5 words) “God loves you so much” That was the message I brought to China, and that was the same message my Chinese friends brought to me. I think we all really needed to hear it. …often. John 13:35: By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. I really want to have the strength, power and resources to deliver that simple, life-changing message to more people – and to see that message change lives here and in China. I believe God will empower us to handle this mission – and to have the vitality and resources to fulfill the work of faith that we have been commissioned to complete. When we know what we are called to do, we should be able to pray confident, faith-filled prayers and make our petitions to God that He would indeed supply all we need to complete the mission we have to fulfill. 2 Thessalonians 1:11: With this in view, we constantly pray for you, that our God will count you worthy of your calling [to faith] and with [His] power fulfill every desire for goodness, and complete [your] every work of faith… With this in mind, we constantly pray that our God will empower you to live worthy of all that he has invited you to experience. And we pray that by his power all the pleasures of goodness and all works inspired by faith would fill you completely. By doing this the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you, and you will be glorified in him, by the marvelous grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. “We also pray that God will work powerfully in you. Then you will be able to do every good thing that you want to do. You will do the things that you want to do because you trust God.” You trust God? What about Him are you trusting in? We pray Jesus’ words, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” TPT: Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is in heaven. If you embrace the scriptures I shared with you earlier, you can see how they agree with the prayer Jesus taught us to pray. The great works God has called us to do must begin with a greater revelation of His Love for us. “God loves you so much” I brought this message of God’s love to China – and my Chinese friends brought this same message to me, too. I really needed to learn it on a deeper level. 1 John 4:16: “We have come to know and believe the love God has for us. God is love. If you live in love, you live by the help of God and God lives in you.” The Isaiah 53 prophecy (which was repeated and validated in Matt 8) is such a great example of the love Jesus showed to us. Isaiah 53:5: But he was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by his stripes we are healed. Look at this in the Amplified Bible. "He was wounded for our transgressions. He was crushed". By the way, crushed is the correct word, not bruised. He was crushed for our wickedness. Jesus was crushed for our wickedness. Now watch this: "The punishment (required) for our well-being fell on Him, and by his stripes we are healed". The punishment required, in the Hebrew, the well-being is the word "shalom". The chastisement of our peace was upon him. The punishment with a view to your well-being. “Jesus wasn’t murdered” – He chose to endure the cross for you. For me. “God loves you so much” Jesus paid it all. Look unto Jesus – look to His finished work. Holy Communion is such a great opportunity for us to do this The nails - the lashes – we recognize His love for us and open our hearts to His love The bronze serpent - Look to Jesus’ finished work and receive your healing The New Covenant “God loves you so much” Not because of our works Eph 2:8,9: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. “I don’t feel married” JOHN PIPER: God is God. My feelings do not define truth. God's Word defines truth. While we were yet sinners “Because He lives … all fear is gone!” 2 Tim 2:13: If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself. THIS is the GOD we are trusting in. With this TRUST in the Love of GOD, we are empowered to REST (by God’s Grace through Faith) We no longer walk in fear of not doing everything “just right” (did I pray loud enough? did I make a mistake today?) So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. So we can, through Christ, break the power of the things that are hindering us from fulfilling God’s Purposes for our lives. We call forth the Resources – Restoration – Healing – Renewed Strength – the deliverance – the wisdom Maybe you’ve been trying to do things on your own for so long you wonder if it’s even possible to live this other way – to rely on God’s strength and power? God knows where you’ve been – and He also knows what He could do in and through you if you will give Him back control of your life. He knows how to heal and restore your life. You need the life of God working in and through you – because that is God’s will for your life. He wants to raise you up to a whole new level of wholeness and victory. Col 1: 23: Never be shaken from the hope of the gospel you have believed in. Because God loves us, this perfect love can cast out all fear from our lives as we put our full trust in Him and His plan for our lives. “We have experienced and we have entrusted our lives to the love of God in us. God is love. “ Eph 3:19: …and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. God called you out of darkness. He loves you – and He has accepted you. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource BEIJING DIARIES 2 北京日记 2 Description An account of the resource 1 John 4:16: And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 约翰一书 4:16: 我们已经认识并且相信了上帝对我们的爱。上帝就是爱，住在爱中的，就是住在上帝里面，上帝也住在他里面 (pg 1981) John 13:35: By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. 约翰福音 13:35: 你们如果彼此相爱，世人就会认出你们是我的门徒。(page 1747) 1 Thess 1:11: With this in mind, we constantly pray that our God will empower you to live worthy of all that he has invited you to experience. And we pray that by his power all the pleasures of goodness and all works inspired by faith would fill you completely. 帖撒罗尼迦后书1:11: 因此，我们常常为你们祷告，愿我们的上帝看你们配得祂的呼召，用大能成全你们一切美好的心愿和凭信心所做的工作。(page 1919) Eph 2:8,9: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 以弗所书 2:8,9: 你们得救是靠恩典，凭信心。这不是出于你们自己，而是上帝的礼物； 也不是由于你们的行为，以免有人自夸。(page 1895) Col 1: 23: Never be shaken from the hope of the gospel you have believed in. 歌罗西书 1:23: 只是你们必须恒心持守所信的道，根基稳固，坚定不移，不要失去你们听到福音后所得到的盼望。(page 1909) Eph 3:19: …and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 以弗所书 3:19: 并知道基督的爱是远超过人所能理解的爱，好叫上帝无限的丰富充满你们。 (page 1897) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/11/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/311c23cc9bd60b6cde8868e9d75b450e.jpeg 5c4d42866e7f25030f20589c733802ae https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/7fb9ba571116d000b82c2dc26b3ce22e.mp4 905cc9ff970390ef439557499a3a3fa4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Unnoticed 1 John 4:19 A man asked a gardener why his plants grew so beautifully. The gardener said: “I don't force them to grow. I remove what stops them.” Sometime, it’s not necessarily what we need to start doing – maybe (sometimes) it’s something we need to stop doing. Somethings we just need to let go of. To Release. (this has definitely been MY experience) When we look at the world around us, what eyes are we seeing it with? What do we notice in others? What goes unnoticed? unnoticed adjective, adverb: without being seen or noticed (in 1 Cor 13) LOVE …will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. The gossiping, judgmental “Christian” is a sad cliché in our culture. (after sharing all the dirt) “I’m just telling you this so you can pray about it.” “I love to tell the story” You can often tell when the “circle group” is circling to talk about someone. If you see it, run as far away from it as you can. Take no part. You might tick some people off when you don’t join in in talking bad about someone – but you still must refuse to participate. 1 John 4:19: Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. (think about it) When you’ve blown it – when things seem to be falling apart – maybe even people turning against you – you desperately want someone to stand with you. To still believe in you. (even if your own mistakes are inexcusable to others) “To love means to be actively concerned for the life and growth of another.” Do we live to bless others – or do we look for reasons to hold people back – to keep them locked into their past mistakes? Prov 11:25: He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed "Those who live to bless others will have blessings heaped upon them, and the one who pours out his life to pour out blessings will be saturated with favor." LOVE …will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. 1 Cor 13:7: Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up. Jesus said, “Judge not” I know this is very familiar – very fundamental – but the fundamentals never change. Matt 7:1: (Jesus says) DO NOT judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. Don’t just say,“I know” without actually letting God’s Word shine light in your heart today. The same God Who created us – created and loves them (just as much) Jesus always blessed the outsiders with #GoodThings 1928 “The Crowd” Silent movie – sandwich sign How do we see others? Do we feel we have to qualify them? Do they go to church? What (which?) church? Truth: Some of the greatest men and women of our faith (yours and mine) belonged to a group or denomination that we may think isn’t as good as ours. It’s totally true. Read your history. (last week) “I have been on this planet many decades now, but I feel like I am just getting started on what I want to achieve - what I feel God has in store for me to do.” I need my thinking and my choices to line–up with how Jesus tells us we are to interact with our world. I need to constantly have my mind renewed – and my life restored “Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation…” (have we forgotten the joy of our forgiveness?) ? How much has God forgiven you? We may stumble, but the lesson of the Gospel is that God is ready to lift us back up. If you’re seeking restoration in your life, I’m pretty sure you need to be offering that same grace for change and restoration to others. Isaiah 58:9,10: Then you will call out, and the LORD will answer. You will cry out, and he will say, ‘Here I am.’ “If you stop making trouble for others, if you stop using cruel words and pointing your finger at others, if you feed those who are hungry and take care of the needs of those who are troubled, then your light will shine in the darkness, and you will be bright like sunshine at noon. “Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.” That’s Restoration It’s a restoration that doesn’t just restore you – it even impacts your surroundings. “If you stop making trouble for others, if you stop using cruel words and pointing your finger at others …” GOD’s mercies are new every morning – shouldn’t that tell us something about how we should be viewing others as well? Romans 5:17: For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.” If you are still walking in unforgiveness and judgment of others, holding others past mistakes against them, I question whether you have (truly) received the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness. (in your heart) (old testament Christians) When people are condemning others, I believe, in their hearts, they are also condemning themselves. It is not a happy existence. Matt 7:1: (Jesus says) DO NOT judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. Maybe I’m imagining it, but I feel we sometimes justify our own personal “version” of Christianity that doesn’t actually reflect the Gospel teaching? We obessess over the actions of others, while justifying our own. Matt 7:3-5: “Why do you notice the small piece of dust that is in your friend’s eye, but you don’t notice the big piece of wood that is in your own? Why do you say to your friend, ‘Let me take that piece of dust out of your eye’? Look at yourself first! You still have that big piece of wood in your own eye. You are a hypocrite! First, take the wood out of your own eye. Then you will see clearly to get the dust out of your friend’s eye.” “While we were yet sinners…” If it costs you your peace, it is too expensive 1 John 4:19 states: "We love because he first loved us." Our love is a reciprocal act. This verse encourages believers to live out their love for God by extending that love to others, reflecting God's love in their actions and interactions. “God loves you so much” 1 Cor 13:5: “Love does not remember the suffering that comes from being hurt by someone.” unnoticed: LOVE …will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. Some things we just need to let go of. To Release. John 13:35: By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. Like it or not… we are the result of our programming. If you can be transformed by the renewing of your mind, then who you are NOW is a result what you previously poured into your minds. (and hearts) It is a progressive journey, but if you will deliberately feed upon the right things (the truth) that will eventually replace the old conditioning. It will happen. 1 John 4:16: “We have come to know and believe the love God has for us. God is love. If you live in love, you live by the help of God and God lives in you.” Let’s turn it around today Job 42:10: When Job prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his fortunes. In fact, the LORD gave him twice as much as before! We love because God first loved us. 1 Cor 13:7: Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource unnoticed 未被察觉 Description An account of the resource 1 John 4:19: Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. 约翰一书 4:19: 我们爱，因为上帝先爱了我们。 (page 1981) Prov 11:25: A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. 箴言 11:25: 慷慨好施的必得昌盛，恩待他人的必蒙恩待。(pg 1049) 1 Cor 13:7: Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up. 歌 林 多 前 書 13:7: 爱包容一切，爱总是信任，爱总是希望着，爱一贯是坚强的。(page 1863) Matt 7:1: Do not judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. 馬 太 福 音 7:1: 不要论断别人，免得你们被论断 (page 1567) Isaiah 58:9,10: Then when you call, the LORD will answer. ‘Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply.“Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. 以赛亚书 58:9,10: 你们求告，我必应允；你们呼求，我必回应。 如果你们不再欺压、指责、毁谤，如果你们给饥饿的人食物，扶助困苦的人，你们的光必照亮黑暗，你们的黑夜必变成正午。(page 1209) 1 Cor 13:4,5: Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 1 Cor 13:4,5: 爱是恒久忍耐，又有恩慈；爱是不嫉妒，不自吹自擂，不骄傲自大， 不轻浮无礼，不自私自利，不轻易动怒，不怀怨记恨 (page 1863) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/18/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/cf1ac71062fc64a5a7274ff799ecc452.jpeg 5f9961212c4b73b57827ae2b47de8ee7 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/35ea69e019b4a175f3898c17b9ac6309.mp4 80353213e2baefd5ef405cd57dbcfeca Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Growing Through the Motions Ecclesiastes 1:8-10 "When everyday seems the same, it is because we have stopped noticing the good things that appear in our lives." ~ Paulo Coelho Msg: Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. mun•dane - of, relating to, or characteristic of the world 2 : characterized by the practical, transitory, and ordinary : COMMONPLACE Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. There is a positive, joyful side to the daily routine - if you look for it There are daily chores we must do There are obligations, and there are monthly, weekly and daily duties that fill our days. But if we just wish all of these things away, (along with all the precious time included,) what do we have left? Not much. Ec 9:10: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with (all) your might Col 3:23: Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… Put your life back into your life. Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. There is a Christian song I love that says, “I don’t want to spend my life going through the motions.” If we do (as the scripture says) “everything as unto the Lord” – if we live as the Bible says, “In everything (giving) thanks,” then even the normal, predictable, mundane duties of life are not just “going through the motions.” YOU can decide if it has meaning and purpose or not. ? Do you realize that if you have a true routine you don’t need “motivation?” You do what needs to be done from conditioning. That is a good thing. There is a positive, joyful side to the daily routine - if you look for it There was a hit song by that wonderful 60’s band “The Monkees” called “Pleasant Valley Sunday” It was a reflection of the countercultural zeitgeistof young people trying to create something new due to the disillusionment they perceived of the existing culture. “Another Pleasant Valley Sunday (Sunday) - Charcoal burning everywhere Rows of houses that are all the same - And no one seems to care” Now in 2025 people realize that was actually a pretty good way to live J Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. Don’t just accept the day-to-day routine – treasure it! “Growing through the motions” Find ways to LOVE your daily routine. “Waiting for my real life to begin” – Colin Hay Ben Franklin: “Do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made out of.” Ecc 5:18: But I realized that there is one good thing for people to do. We should be happy to eat and to drink. And we should enjoy the hard work that we do on the earth. That is what God wants us to do during the short time that he has given us on this earth. Travelling is great - for a time. Going new places – especially places with different cultures and traditions - can really wake you up- and teach you about life. A nice vacation can do wonders for us. It’s been years since I have been to the beach, but a good beach trip is really good for the soul. But I also feel like my dad always did. After a bit, you are ready and happy to go back home. To return to the routine. Travelling is always amazing to me. I can’t fully explain it – but there is just something so fascinating about flying far away and knowing that all you are has travelled with you – or has it? Don’t you feel alone sometimes when you’re away from home base? “No matter where you go - there YOU are.” There is no place you can go that God is not. Profoundly simple - yet simply profound. It is the answer to loneliness. - the answer to powerlessness. It is simply a matter of abiding. China: “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” If you cannot find the joy in the routine – in the mundane – in those “normal days” of life – then you are simply missing the purpose of that time – which is for equipping you for what God has for you to do when the set moment arrives. Jesus said, “God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” There is a good kind of poverty – the kind that recognizes how empty and alone we are without God. In the sixteenth century Copernicus was the first to claim that the earth revolves around the sun – and not the other way around. In the same way, many people think that if they clean up their lives, if they can “make” themselves righteous, then God will love them. The truth is quite the opposite. The truth is, once we come to experience God’s love – we begin to change from the inside out. We’ve got to connect – and remain connected to our God – our source. Remember – we do this by Faith. The Bible talks about “Dwelling in the Secret Place…” “Abiding in Christ…” Staying connected to the Vine *(Jesus) “In Him we live and move and have our being.” ? You ever have one of those times where you have lots of questions and no clear answers? “God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” Step One: We admitted we were powerless over _______ – that our lives had become unmanageable. One morning I was praying and I wrote these words: “Lord, I know that I don’t know everything – I have so much to learn. But I know that I am complete in You. I know that I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” At that very moment, His Presence and Peace filled me as I just submitted to Him. Waiting. A broken, empty vessel. “Those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing.” When we trust God is with us – Emmanuel - when we depend on Him, we can have peace for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Jesus said, “Take no thought for tomorrow.” I had a conversation with someone about how hard it is for them to live in the moment. Everything is either a memory or a dreaded future event. I know I have had whole vacations where all I thought about was being back home. How many moments have we missed by not listening to The Master – by worrying – by walking in fear of tomorrow instead of faith for today? If we are present in the moment, we are not in fear. Staying Present – in His Presence. (selah) The great composer Tchaikovsky once said that he spent his entire life “regretting the past and hoping for the future, never being satisfied in the present.” The present is all we have. We must learn to be “Complete in Him” NOW. If we will live in the Present Moment – if we will abide in His Presence – we can once again discover we are “Complete In Him.” If you will live in this revelation that you are, indeed, “complete in Him,” your whole life will change. You can live in the moment and live in His peace. It takes practice and it takes persistence – but it is worth the effort. If we are “complete in Him” (which we are,) we should live like it. Our lives should demonstrate this truth. Stop seeing lack – start seeing completion. Decree over your life – by decreeing over your day Jesus said, “…does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.” Mark 11:24: This is the reason I urge you to boldly believe for whatever you ask for in prayer—be convinced that you have received it and it will be yours. Speak blessings over the whole thing you call “your life” Whosoever meaneth ME. Prov 28:10 says, “ … the upright shall possess good things.” Ecc 6:6: Even if he lives 2,000 years, it is sad if a person can’t enjoy the good things God gives him. Abiding is a choice. It is a deliberate act of faith to cast aside your doubts and fears and wait upon the Lord. To live in His Present in the Present moment. Beloved, don’t hesitate to come to your Heavenly Father. God, who is so full of goodness and supply. He is always willing to bless, preserve, heal and restore you. “Fill my cup, Lord…” Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource GROWING through the motions 日常涵养成长 Description An account of the resource Ecc 1:10: Is there anything of which one can say, “Look! This is something new”?It was here already, long ago; it was here before our time. 传道书 1:10: 人可以指着哪件事说：“看啊，这是新事”？所谓的新事在我们以前早就有了。 (page 1086) Ec 9:10: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might 传道书 9:10: 凡你的手能做的，都要尽力去做 (pg 1097) Col 3:23: Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men 歌罗西书 3:23: 无论做什么事，都要发自内心，像是为主做的，而不是为人做的，(page 1912) Ecc 5:18: But I realized that there is one good thing for people to do. We should be happy to eat and to drink. And we should enjoy the hard work that we do on the earth. That is what God wants us to do during the short time that he has given us on this earth. 传道书 5:18: 我认为人生最美最善的是，在上帝所赐的短暂岁月中尽情吃喝，享受自己在日光之下劳苦得来的成果。因为这是人当得的。(page 1092) Mark 11:24: This is the reason I urge you to boldly believe for whatever you ask for in prayer—be convinced that you have received it and it will be yours. 馬 可 福 音 11:24: 所以我告诉你们：在祷告中请求，只要相信你们已经得到它，那么它就会属于你们。 (page 1641) Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. 以赛亚书 40:31: 但仰望耶和华的人必重新得力。他们必像鹰一样展翅高飞，他们奔跑也不困倦，他们行走也不疲乏。(page 1177) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/25/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/15c04e19e3b18548edd391524a1cb5cf.jpeg e0104f523800022995b9bae9e86fadd4 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c907e9806a0ed6e232f6aa1af4d9edbc.mp4 aca7c655019b11a686e3efa7e30a404a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound The Mystery of the Temple John 2:13 - 22 Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary - Pure and holy, tried and true With thanksgiving, I'll be a living - Sanctuary for You Driving around Beijing, I was shown one of the primary government buildings – well-guarded and considered a place of great authority. Q: Was that power and authority because of the building itself? No, it was the power and authority held within the walls of that building. Today I am going to share with you from the Word of God, that we are God’s Holy Temple. John 2:18 – “ …the Jewish leaders demanded, "What are you doing? If God gave you authority to do this, show us a miraculous sign to prove it." (v..19) “Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”” (v 22) “After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered He had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said.” This is a KEY for us this morning. ? Will we believe and accept what God’s Word has to say to us this morning? ? Will we believe it today – or will it have to wait for another day? Glove Illustration: The power comes from what’s inside of it. 1 Cor 3:16 - Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? There are times when we really feel the need for a power greater than our own – just to get through the day. “It’s just not in me” There are times when our bodies fail us – and we need a true resurrection – a resurrection that has to come from a power greater than ourselves. Paul said, “That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” It was near the time of Passover when Jesus cleansed the temple of the money-changers and declared before the Jews - “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” Today it is Christ in you that is ready to raise you up out of your struggles – out of your sickness – out of your depression – right now. • Faith is NOW. • Christ in YOU, the hope of glory. • Do you believe and receive this HOPE today? (“yes” or “Yes?”) Romans 15:13 - "I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." Are you ready to overflow with confident hope today? Hope is the seed – the starting place – for your breakthrough. Hebrews 6:19 - This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary. This hope being described in Hebrews is the New Covenant – which is demonstrated in the sacrament of Holy Communion – the Body & the Blood. You - (as a true follower of Jesus Christ) are God’s Temple. His Spirit dwells in you. You already know that He put resurrection power inside of you. That power is released through faith is His Word and His promises. YOU are God’s holy temple – and it is time to reclaim His Temple for His Glory. Reclaim God’s Temple for God’s Glory – just like Jesus did when He drove out the money changers. The money changers represent your old carnal way of thinking and living that hinders the resurrection power of God from working in and through you. “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” Romans 8:10, 11: “And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” You and I have to humble ourselves – submit ourselves to God – and admit our own weakness. Confess our need for God’s power. Resurrection power is in you to raise you up to new life – because you are God’s temple. “Christ in you – the hope of glory.” 1 Cor 3:16 - Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? Eph 3:20 – “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Maybe you’ve been trying to do things on your own for so long you wonder if it’s even possible to live this other way – to rely on God’s strength and power? To finally allow His mighty power to work in you – to raise up this temple? Maybe you’ve rebelled against God – maybe you feel like the prodigal child this morning and think you don’t have the right to ask God for His help now? Is it fair to fall on your face – trying to do everything yourself – and then run to God when you’ve made a mess of things? In Psalm 107 Some of you were sick because you’d lived a bad life, your bodies feeling the effects of your sin… Then you called out to GOD in your desperate condition; he got you out in the nick of time. He spoke the word that healed you, that pulled you back from the brink of death. This is from the Old Testament. “How much more…” You must BELIEVE in Divine Mercy Romans 2:4 tell us it is “the goodness of God that leads us to repentance.” God knows where you’ve been – and He also knows what He could do in and through you if you will give Him control of your life. Jesus knows how to heal and restore your life. Jesus showed us the Divine Will of His Father while He was here on earth. Matthew 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. You need the life of God working in and through you – because that is God’s will for your life. He wants to raise you up to a whole new level of wholeness and victory. Jesus prayed in John 17:22 - "I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” “I am in them and you are in me.” Col 1:29 – “For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.” Today God calls us out of darkness and into His marvelous Light. He is ready “to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us…” 1 Cor 2:12: For we did not receive the spirit of this world system but the Spirit of God, so that we might come to understand and experience all that grace has lavished upon us. “ …that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. We need a greater revelation of the Cross and its Power for our lives Your body is God’s temple – and it should glorify God. Jesus gave us power over the enemy and said “nothing shall by any means harm you.” Nothing. No thing. Not viruses. Not disease. No affliction. He bore our infirmities. “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” That struggle you are going through is a weapon formed against you – but I declare in Jesus’ name it shall not prosper. Today you’re breaking through and breaking out. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses …” You and I will glorify God and be His witnesses – even as our light shines brighter and brighter and gives witness to the life-changing resurrection power that is working mightily within us. “Let the Lord be MAGNIFIED…” (“let them say continually”) God is magnified as we reflect Him – His Grace – His Mercy – His Love Mark 16:20 – “And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs.” “the Lord worked through them” “confirming the word with signs following” One of the signs Jesus described was “they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover.” Today it is Christ in you that is ready to raise you up out of your struggles – out of your sickness – out of your depression – right now, right before Passover. Christ in YOU, the hope of glory. Do you believe and receive this HOPE today? (v 22) “After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered He had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said.” Today it is our turn to Hear and Believe God’s Word and what Jesus said. See the Living Word manifested in your life. It is the goodness of God that leads us to repentance – to turn back to God for the answers we seek – the help we need – the healing we desire in our lives. We have a New Covenant of Healing and Salvation through what Jesus Christ did for us. Acts 20:32,33: “And so now, I entrust you into God’s hands and the message of his grace, which is all that you need to become strong. All of God’s blessings are imparted through the message of his grace, which he provides as the spiritual inheritance given to all of his holy ones.” It’s time to command our Holy Temples to line up with The Word and Glorify GOD Psalm 107:19-21: Then we cried out, “Lord, help us! Rescue us!” And he did! God spoke the words “Be healed,” and we were healed, delivered from death’s door! So lift your hands and give thanks to God for his marvelous kindness and for his miracles of mercy for those he loves! “He sent His Word and healed them…” Command this temple to line up (into agreement) with the Will and Word of God to come into alignment with Holiness – Purity – Health – Vitality To Glorify God in its members Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Mystery of the Temple 圣殿的奥秘 Description An account of the resource John 2:19: Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” 約 翰 福 音 2:19: 耶稣回答说：“你们拆毁这座殿，我三天之内会把它重建起来。” (pg 1719) 1 Cor 3:16 - Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 哥林多前书 3:16: 岂不知你们就是上帝的殿，上帝的灵住在你们里面吗？(pg 1850) Romans 8:10, 11: “And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” 罗马书 8:10,11: 如果基督在你们里面，你们的身体虽然因罪恶而死亡，灵魂却因上帝所赐的义而活着。 如果使耶稣复活之上帝的灵住在你们里面，叫基督耶稣从死里复活的上帝，必借着住在你们里面的圣灵，使你们终有一死的身体活过来。 (page 1832) 1 Cor 2:12: For we did not receive the spirit of this world system but the Spirit of God, so that we might come to understand and experience all that grace has lavished upon us. 歌 林 多 前 書 2:12: 我们接受的不是这世界的灵，而是上帝的圣灵，使我们可以领会上帝开恩启示给我们的事。(page 1849) Psalm 107:19-21: Then we cried out, “Lord, help us! Rescue us!” And he did! God spoke the words “Be healed,” and we were healed, delivered from death’s door! So lift your hands and give thanks to God for his marvelous kindness and for his miracles of mercy for those he loves! 诗篇 107:19-21: 于是，他们在患难中呼求耶和华，耶和华便拯救他们脱离困境。 祂一发令，就医治了他们，救他们脱离死亡。 他们当称谢耶和华的慈爱，称谢祂为世人所行的奇事。 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/7f7b16d4f4856bc81719bf34320a96e6.jpeg 7dfe6b2236f911cfa3b777d8852f60e5 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/bae91697bd90c77451223df8ccbb0bdc.mp4 118642b1d57d32021109724a294d31fb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound The Train is Leaving the Station 1 Cor 3:9 A young couple was getting married. They wanted everything to be extra special, so they commissioned a wedding cake with them often-quoted scripture from 1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear…” On the day of the wedding, the beautiful cake was wheeled out at the reception, only to discover that the cake decorator had left off the “1” from the inscription, leaving it actually display John 4:18, which says, “ …for thou hast had five husbands, and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband.” There is a saying: “Regret for the things we did can be tempered by time; it is regret for the things we did not do that is inconsolable.” A similar quote says, “The greatest regret in life is not the mistakes we make, but the opportunities we miss." Although I will always be glad I chose to serve in the military, one of my biggest regrets was not accepting an invitation from the US Government to go to foreign language school. The program would have required me to add two years to my enlistment, and to a 19 year-old, two years sounded like an eternity. I’ll never know what could have been because I chose not to stretch to a new level at that time in my life. Tom Peters: "If a window of opportunity appears, don't pull down the shade." This quote suggests that when a chance presents itself, it should be embraced. "Opportunities are like sunrises. If you wait too long, you miss them." This highlights the fleeting nature of opportunities and the need to act promptly. "Seize the moment, because one silly act can create a legacy, and also birth a legend." My purpose, my mission, for this message today, is to encourage all of us to act on our Divine inspiration, and to have the God-given wisdom to recognize what ideas are from God, and which ideas are a distraction from the main purpose we should be pursuing. God has called us all together “for such a time as this.” The phrase "for such a time as this" (from Esther 4:14) has become a common expression used to suggest that God has placed individuals in particular situations for a specific purpose, and that there might be a time when they need to act to fulfill that purpose. In Esther 4:14, Mordecai is questioning whether Esther's position as queen, and God's providence in putting her in that place, was for the purpose of this particular moment. He is suggesting that she might have been placed in that position to help her people at this time of great need. God has placed us together in this time and place “for such a time as this.” But will we step up and do our part? Time is not standing still. Today as the Earth continues to revolve around the sun, our time has come. The train is leaving the station. 1 Cor 3:9: For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. This verse uses the imagery of both a field (agriculture) and a building (construction) to describe the role of believers in the church as God's work in progress. For we work together with God. You are God’s field. You are God’s building also. The train is leaving the station. Time will not wait for us. Will we miss our moment? “The greatest regret in life is not the mistakes we make, but the opportunities we miss." This message today is in no way to be considered a reprimand – it is a message of liberation. It is to free us to “Go with GOD” and become the men and women of God that He predestined us to become. …To once and for all time break free of our own limitations and see our unlimited potential in Christ. Eveyone has gifts inside of them, no everyone releases them. 1 Cor 3 (MSG) : Who do you think Paul is, anyway? Or Apollos, for that matter? Servants, both of us—servants who waited on you as you gradually learned to entrust your lives to our mutual Master. We each carried out our servant assignment. I planted the seed, Apollos watered the plants, but God made you grow. It’s not the one who plants or the one who waters who is at the center of this process but God, who makes things grow. Planting and watering are menial servant jobs at minimum wages. What makes them worth doing is the God we are serving. You happen to be God’s field in which we are working. Or, to put it another way, you are God’s house. We are both the field and the building We talk often how the scriptures call us the temple… and the branches We have this treasure in our earthern vessels… and we must have our roots dug in deep to flourish in God’s Kingdom We are branches… and we are the temple. Both rely on the inward presence of Christ to do anything of true value Col 1:28: Christ is our message! We preach to awaken hearts and bring every person into the full understanding of truth. Will we say “Yes” to our individual parts in this mission? Matthew 21:28-32: Jesus said to his critics, “Tell me what you think of this parable: “There once was a man with two sons. The father came to the first and said, ‘Son, I want you to go and work in the vineyard today.’ The son replied, ‘I’d rather not.’ But afterward, he deeply regretted what he said to his father, changed his mind, and decided to go to the vineyard. The father approached the second son and said the same thing to him. The son replied, ‘Father, I will go and do as you said.’ But he never did—he didn’t go to the vineyard. Tell me now, which of these two sons did the will of his father?” They answered him, “The first one.” Jesus said, “You’re right. For many sinners, tax collectors, and prostitutes are going into God’s kingdom realm ahead of you! John came to show you the path of righteousness, yet the despised and outcasts believed in him, but you did not. When you saw them turn, you neither repented of your ways nor believed his words.” In this parable, a man asks his two sons to work in his vineyard. The first son initially says he won't, but later changes his mind and goes. The second son says he will, but doesn't go. Jesus uses this parable to illustrate a point about hypocrisy and the true nature of obedience, contrasting the first son's eventual obedience with the second son's empty promise. Jesus applies the parable to the religious leaders of the time, who he says are like the second son. They outwardly claim to be obedient to God but don't truly follow his will. The parable highlights the importance of both outward obedience and inward sincerity. The first son, despite initially refusing, later changed his mind and acted according to his father's will. The second son, while outwardly agreeing, failed to act upon his promise. Jesus' point is that true obedience involves both words and actions, and that even those who initially seem uncooperative can still fulfill God's will through repentance and action. This should be both a warning and a reassurance to us today. New Wine goes into New Wineskins. What was is not what is, and what is is not necessarily what will be. We only need to use our powers of observation to recognize that. God’s Church and His People were never ever meant to be stagnant. As we clear our minds of fixed ideas, we begin to see what this means - and we begin to live those virtues which formerly were only words. The train is in the station. All Aboard. Ezra 10:4: Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it. The mission is in our hands now. As Eddie said, the first trip to China could have always been just a “nice idea” that we would think back on and wonder what might have been. …but you and I (together) took action. It may have been Bruddah Mike who got on the plane, but it was all of your prayers, encouragement and giving that made it really happen (with God’s help) Chronologically, I can’t help but get older. I can’t stop the calendar. …but as I dig in (by faith) and embrace my purpose, I discover my youth is being renewed. Maine: “NOW I know why I am here!” You and I can feel that way today if we embrace the purposes God has brought us together to fulfill for His Kingdom. Not everyone is called for the same mission, but it takes faith and discernment to realize that, even though sometimes we get offended, we dig in our heels and continue to serve God (not man) “Not everyone is going to like you.” If God puts it into your heart, who is able to convince you not to do it? Plato: “When men speak ill of thee, live so as nobody may believe them.” Joel: “Don’t fight the critics – Outlast them.” I remember visiting a church years ago and hearing a young couple who had been serving God in music ministry announce that they were leaving the church to go to a bigger, fancier church. I knew in my heart that they had been called to that church – but it was to challenging. Their hearts had not fully embraced their true purpose. “Without a vision the people perish.” Without a clear sense of purpose and direction, we tend to drift. Leavers leave. The train is leaving the station. We have to GET on board and STAY on board. Will you surrender to His will and purposes so He can build you up and nurture and cultivate your life into a meaningful specific? We know we are the branches. Jesus described the destiny of branches in two ways: • Those who bore fruit would be pruned to bear more fruit • Those who did not would be cast aside and burned Not my words… Jesus’ words. 1 Cor 3:14,15: If anyone’s work which he has built on the foundation endures, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss. But he himself will be saved, still going through the fire. Who will work in the Lord’s field and build His house? Take a deep breath. Get Present. You will decide what you will do. God gave us free will. You can use your special gifts for God’s Kingdom and His glorify. This choice gives our lives meaning and purpose. Never compare what you are called to do with what someone else is called to do… …and don’t expect someone else to be you, either. J A share vision brings power. “I have decided…” from Col 1: “Never be shaken from the hope of the gospel you have believed in.” “ …Christ is our message! We preach to awaken hearts and bring every person into the full understanding of truth.” Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Train is Leaving the Station 列车即将出发 Description An account of the resource 1 Cor 3:9: For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. 歌 林 多 前 書 3:9: 我们是为上帝服务的同事，你们则是上帝的田地和建筑。 (pg 1850) 1 Cor 3:5-9: Who do you think Paul is, anyway? Or Apollos, for that matter? Servants, both of us—servants who waited on you as you gradually learned to entrust your lives to our mutual Master. We each carried out our servant assignment. I planted the seed, Apollos watered the plants, but God made you grow. It’s not the one who plants or the one who waters who is at the center of this process but God, who makes things grow. Planting and watering are menial servant jobs at minimum wages. What makes them worth doing is the God we are serving. You happen to be God’s field in which we are working. Or, to put it another way, you are God’s house. 歌 林 多 前 書 3:5-8: 亚波罗算什么？保罗算什么？我们不过是上帝的仆人，各人照着主所赐的才干引导你们信靠上帝。 我栽种，亚波罗灌溉，但使之生长的是上帝。 所以栽种的和灌溉的都算不得什么，一切都在于使之生长的上帝。 其实栽种的人和浇灌的人目标都一样，各人将按照自己的付出得报酬。(pg 1850) Col 1:28: Christ is our message! We preach to awaken hearts and bring every person into the full understanding of truth. 歌罗西书 1:28: 我们传扬基督，用各样的智慧劝诫、教导众人，使他们在基督里长大成熟，好把他们带到上帝面前。(page 1909) Ezra 10:4: Arise, for this matter is your responsibility. But we are standing with you. Be courageous and act! 以 斯 拉 記 10:4: 你 起 来 ， 这 是 你 当 办 的 事 ， 我 们 必 帮 助 你 ， 你 当 奋 勉 而 行 。(page 786) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/08/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/617345b38a694cb94be8b5be30299c24.jpeg 7d2d67c5eeaf1031e944f90f00e7c5b5 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c7ce1ef35beb8da26ed47fe4db4e21d4.mp4 d4f0355baad6eede456e44abd39f3356 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound UPSET/RESET Hebrews 12:5-11 Easily, some of the best days in my life were when I was helping to raise my daughter Hayley. I totally loved being a daddy. Every day. I never liked it nor understood it when I would hear parents talk about how they impatiently were waiting for their children to grow up and move on. I may have a lot of flaws, but I know I never felt that way. For a lot of us, our earthly fathers have already shed this mortal coil We have memories of our fathers, and yes, so many things have been imparted to us that we continue to benefit from. Our earthly fathers each imparted different things into our lives and our character. So much of who we are now was imparted to us by our parents in those early, formative years. We were empty, open vessels that took in everything they told us without questioning any of it. That means it is a huge responsibility to raise a child properly. I know there were things my father did when I was growing up that I didn’t understand at the time. Sometimes it was “tough love” But as I grew up and grew slightly more mature, I could see the wisdom in much of it. For so many of us, as we grow older, we hear our father’s voice coming out of our mouths. (not always a good thing) Some had fathers who were very active in their lives. Some not so much. Some people never even knew their father. My intention here today is to not only appreciate the wisdom we may have received from them, but even more importantly, redirect our focus toward receiving the Divine wisdom, guidance, provision and restoration that can only come from our Heavenly Father. Jesus prayed in John 17:22 - "I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” “I am in them and you are in me.” John 10:30 (Jesus said) “I and the Father are one.” You may not have been close to your biological father. Maybe you were? You can, however, be truly close, as Jesus describes here, to your heavenly Father. Always and Forever. Luke 1:78: The splendor-light of heaven’s glorious sunrise is about to break upon us in holy visitation, all because the merciful heart of our God is so very tender. Is this the Heavenly Father that you believe in? Eph 1:5: “ … he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will…” vs 6: —for the same love he has for the Beloved, Jesus, he has for us. y’know… Sometimes my dad had to intervene in my life in order to push me forward. C. S. Lewis: If we let ourselves, we shall always be waiting for some distraction or other to end before we can really get down to our work. Today I want us to consider how our Heavenly Father can be our all-sufficient One as we are lead and fed by the Hand and Heart of God UPSET/RESET We need our loving heavenly Father to push us forward into our destinies sometimes we need an outward force to propel us forward inwardly "Comfort is the enemy of progress" 1 Peter 5:6: Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 1 Peter 5:6,7: If you bow low in God’s awesome presence, he will eventually exalt you as you leave the timing in his hands. Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you. We pray “Our Heavenly Father” We need to know the Heart of our Heavenly Father “God loves you so much” from our scripture today we learn that whom the LORD loves He chastens “My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the LORD loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” ? “how can you say there is no chastisement and punishment in the new covenant?” Today’s scripture states it very clearly. My friend, there is confusion in the church because the original Greek word for “chastens” in today’s scripture has been poorly translated. The Greek word is actually paideuo, which means child training. Pai is where you get the word pediatrician (a doctor who specializes in treating children), while deuo means to teach a child. You will find that the translation of the word paideuo as child training is more consistent with the context of the passage. The next verse says, “If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?” (Heb. 12:7). Clearly, because God deals with us as sons, He disciplines and brings correction to us just as earthly fathers would their sons. Now, think about this for a moment: would you do cruel things to your child just to teach him a lesson? Then why do you think your loving Father in heaven would do that? Prov 13:18: Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. When you train your child, you give him lessons that will teach him things to benefit him in the future. Chastening means “child training” How? God does this through His Word (sanctification) Tim. 3:16–17: God has transmitted his very substance into every Scripture, for it is God-breathed. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Heb. 12:9: And isn’t it true that we respect our earthly fathers even though they corrected and disciplined us? Then we should demonstrate an even greater respect for God, our spiritual Father, as we submit to his life-giving discipline. God the Father is our Abba! Abba is the most affectionate term you can use to address a father in the Hebrew language. It means “Daddy!” Do you really think your Daddy God will punish you that way? Matt 7:11: If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! We can receive protection from every evil occurrence, sickness, and disease. Our heavenly Father is one who “forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies” (Ps. 103:3–4). And by the stripes on Jesus’ back, we are healed! The good news of Jesus always liberates as His perfect love removes every fear. The good news always imparts faith and exalts the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross! - anything contrary to this is NOT the Gospel Our Father is full of grace and mercy and wants us to be healthy, provided for, and protected from all evil occurrences! Let’s start to expect good things from Him. Embrace your God-given destiny 1 Cor 2:12: For we did not receive the spirit of this world system but the Spirit of God, so that we might come to understand and experience all that grace has lavished upon us. “ …that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. UPSET/RESET When the prodigal son “came to himself” and saw the state he was in, he said, “I will arise and go to my father.” “…everything we need” Your Heavenly Father is your true Source HE is your shelter – your provider – your protector – your encourager You’ve got to stay connected to the Vine – your true Source Matt 6:6: But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father who is in secret; and thy Father who seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. “Whenever you pray, be sincere and not like the pretenders who love the attention they receive while praying before others in the meetings and on street corners. Believe me, they’ve already received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into your innermost chamber and be alone with Father God, praying to him in secret. And your Father, who sees all you do, will reward you openly. When you pray, there is no need to repeat empty phrases, praying like the Gentiles do, for they expect God to hear them because of their many words. There is no need to imitate them, since your Father already knows what you need before you ask him. Pray like this: “Our Beloved Father, dwelling in the heavenly realms, may the glory of your name be the center on which our lives turn. Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is in heaven.” 1 John 3:1: See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource UPSET / RESET 转折 / 转机 Description An account of the resource Prov 3:11,12: My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD, neither be weary of His correction; for whom the LORD loveth, He correcteth, even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 箴 言 3:11,12: 我 儿 ， 你 不 可 轻 看 耶 和 华 的 管 教 （ 或 译 ： 惩 治 ） ， 也 不 可 厌 烦 他 的 责 备 ； 因 为 耶 和 华 所 爱 的 ， 他 必 责 备 ， 正 如 父 亲 责 备 所 喜 爱 的 儿 子 。(pg 1036) John 10:30: I and the Father are one. 約 翰 福 音 10:30: 我 与 父 原 为 一 。 (pg 1739) Luke 1:78: The splendor-light of heaven’s glorious sunrise is about to break upon us in holy visitation, all because the merciful heart of our God is so very tender. 路 加 福 音 1:78: 因 我 们 神 怜 悯 的 心 肠 ， 叫 清 晨 的 日 光 从 高 天 临 到 我 们 (pg 1657) Eph 1:5,6: “ … he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will — for the same love he has for the Beloved, Jesus, he has for us.” 以 弗 所 書 1:5,6: 上帝爱我们，因此预先决定通过耶稣基督收养我们做他的儿女。这是上帝的意愿，这使他喜悦。 他这么做，使荣耀的恩典得到赞美，他把这恩典在爱子里无偿地赐给了我们。(pg 1894) 1 Peter 5:6: Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you 彼 得 前 書 5:6: 所以，你们在上帝的有力的巨手之下要谦卑， 等适当的时刻来临时，他会抬举你们的。(pg 1971) Matt 6:6: But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father who is in secret; and thy Father who seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 馬 太 福 音 6:6: 当你祈祷的时候，应该走进房间，关上门，悄悄地向隐秘中的天父祈祷，你的天父看到在隐秘中所做的这一切是会报偿你的。 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/15/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/08694aeec900aa3ed7c5679bb3a61d4f.jpeg 839a88a647357b53a97df503e1d3afdc https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/99c8f45643f7e69b6d73b9033073328a.mp4 e009e88d4aaa9ebf58895fd873c98573 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Surrounded by Divine Favor: Small Steps to God's Big Plans Psalm 5:12: "Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield." I believe that God is about to do something in your life that you were not expecting - something that goes beyond your qualifications, beyond your preparation, beyond your timeline. GOD is about to surprise you with favor - not just any favor - but Divine Favor that leaves you in awe, that makes people around you say, "How did that happen for them?" You see, we serve a God who specializes in surprises. A God who enjoys turning the tables, flipping the script, and showing up when you thought the story was over. You may have been waiting, you've been praying, you've been crying out at night, wondering if perhaps God has forgotten you? But I'm here to tell you, He has not. Not only has He remembered you, but He is preparing something behind the scenes that is going to leave you speechless. The kind of blessing that makes you stand still and say (like David did), "If it had not been for the Lord who was on my side, I don't know where I would be." What exactly is Divine Favor? The favor of the Lord refers to God's grace and kindness towards us, granting us approval, blessings, and the ability to achieve what may seem impossible. It is a divine gift that empowers believers and surrounds them with protection and support in their lives. Some of you have been waiting patiently, but secretly wondering. It felt like rejection, but it was really redirection. GOD wasn't punishing you, He was positioning you, because when the FAVOR comes, you'll understand why the waiting was necessary. You'll soon understand why the detour was needed. GOD didn't forget about your dreams, He protected them. He was making sure that when the door opened, you would be ready to walk through it with authority and clarity. But here's what we need to understand: Divine Favor isn't about instant gratification. Someone prays, "Lord, I want to be a doctor of medicine and help people get well, get healthy, to get healed." Is this a noble, worthy goal? Of course! But does God just instantly put you into a doctor's uniform and you find yourself in an operating room with a scalpel in your hand? Of course not! But if you are taking the necessary steps to achieve that goal, you may find that God is opening doors for medical school, funds to pay for your education, and the right people to help you make that dream become a reality. It's not about attraction - it's about alignment. I work with a couple of people who have risen through the ranks from a very basic position in the workforce into places of great leadership. From early on, you just knew they were headed for higher roles, and yet, the KEY seems to have been their willingness to be faithful in the small things along the way. This kind of faithfulness opens doors of favor. Favor that goes beyond formal education or connections. How do we position ourselves for this Divine Favor? Scripture gives us clear guidance: Psalm 90:17 tells us: "Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!" This reveals our first principle: We must be diligent in the work of our hands. Certain people may have FAVOR, but unless they are diligent in the right things, it doesn't really do them any good. Second, we must value small beginnings. The phrase "despise not small beginnings" from the Book of Zechariah encourages appreciating and not underestimating the early stages of any endeavor, even if they may seem insignificant. It is a reminder that even great things often start small, and that God “rejoices in seeing work begin,” no matter how modest the initial steps. Third, we must embrace the process of preparation. GOD can turn our wounds into wisdom. Wisdom allows us to recognize the times of preparation and refinement. Luke 16:10 (Jesus' words) "He who is faithful in a very little thing is also faithful in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little thing is also dishonest in much." Fourth, we must step into Divine Alignment with God's plans. This means approaching the future with the eyes of faith. Believing in what God has said. What God has promised. "Yes and Amen." The phrase "All God's promises are yes and amen" originates from 2 Cor 1:20, where the Apostle Paul states that all of God's promises are "yes" in Christ and are affirmed with an "amen" through Him to the glory of God. It signifies the certainty, faithfulness, and ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. Psalm 5:12 promises: "Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Imagine what happens when Divine Favor surrounds your life like a shield. Picture the transformation when you approach the future with Expectation AND Imagination (faith that sees what is yet to come) Joel: "It's not going to happen just because of your talent, your ability, or your background. It's the favor of God. It's His divine purpose." 2 Peter 1:2 says that grace, which is the undeserved favor of God, and peace, can be multiplied to you. Peace is the word "shalom" in Hebrew. Its definition includes wholeness, health, safety and provision. So when you walk in divine favor and peace, you will walk in blessings in every area of your life! Visualize what happens when you declare: "I am ready to release the version of me that no longer matches my future." Declare this, not as a ritual, not as a trend but as a declaration - a conscious interruption to that endless loop of the past. A declaration that you are no longer available for the past. It's time to come into alignment with who you were created to be. See yourself discovering the healing power of a renewed vision. Since GOD is able to make all things work together for good, you can thank and bless your past for the lessons it has taught you. You can allow GOD to use these things to help and bless others, even as you step out of that old identity and embrace who you really are in Christ. ? So what practical steps can we take to position ourselves for Divine Favor? 1. Be faithful in the small things - Small things done with a BIG Heart. You and I should be doing the small things (daily) with excellence and integrity. God honors our honest efforts. 2. Get in agreement with GOD's Plans. As long as you're thinking of all the reasons why it's not going to happen, talking about how impossible it looks, that's going to keep you where you are. The conditions may not look favorable for it to ever change, but this is what faith is all about. You're looking at it in the natural, but we serve a supernatural God. Release your faith, expecting His goodness, and He'll make things happen that you can't make happen, things that you can't explain, things that you don't see coming. 3. Embrace expansion and fuller expression. "Let the Lord Be Magnified..." The Bible teaches us to "despise not the small beginnings" but that doesn't mean we stop there. We were all made for Expansion and Fuller Expression. Ephesians 1:11 reminds us: "Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan." 4. Personalize God's promises. When you hear this, personalize it. Don't think of this as a message for someone else. This is for YOU. This is for ME. "Don't judge others - examine yourself." We cannot move forward as GOD would have us to do if we do not expand as individuals to step up and step out. To assume roles we may not have even imagined previously. 5. Stir your faith up, believe big, pray bold prayers, and dream God-sized dreams. He's going to put you in strategic positions to affect the culture. As we grow as a church family, this is a time of equipping and empowering. We will need Holy Ghost POWER, authority and favor to accomplish our mission here on earth. The lesson we have to keep learning is that we cannot do it on our own intelligence, wisdom and strength. Isaiah 49:8 (quoted in 2 Cor 6:2) promises: "This is what the LORD says: 'In the time of my favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you.'" Psalm 30:5 assures us that "his favor lasts a lifetime" Psalm 84:11 declares that "he bestows favor and honor." The "whosoevers" will continue to be faithful in the little things and will know when the time is right (by God's Direction) to step out in BIG ways to take the Kingdom. It will cause others to wonder how you got to where you are. …but they may have missed the steps you took along the way - because they were little steps of faith. YOU may not notice the incremental growth, either... but it is happening. As Exodus 23:30 reminds us: "By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land." I want to appeal to you today on two levels: We should seek His Purposes and Divine Favor, both for the kind of meaningful, purposeful living this provides us, but also, and more importantly, from the Fear of the Lord and our desire to serve GOD. Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield. Let that shield of favor surround you today and always as you take faithful steps toward the Divine purpose God has prepared for you. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource DIVINE FAVOR 神圣恩惠 Description An account of the resource Psalm 5:12 Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield 詩 篇 5:12: 因 为 你 必 赐 福 与 义 人 ； 耶 和 华 啊 ， 你 必 用 恩 惠 如 同 盾 牌 四 面 护 卫 他 (page 884) Luke 16:10 "He who is faithful in a very little thing is also faithful in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little thing is also dishonest in much." 路 加 福 音 16:10: 在最小的事上忠心的，在大事上也忠心； 在最小的事上不义的，在大事上也不义。(page 1695) Psalm 90:17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands! 詩 篇 90:17: 愿 主 ─ 我 们 神 的 荣 美 归 於 我 们 身 上 。 愿 你 坚 立 我 们 手 所 做 的 工 ； 我 们 手 所 做 的 工 ， 愿 你 坚 立 。(page 976) 2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 哥林多后书 1:20: 因为　神的一切应许，在基督里都是“是”的，为此我们借着他说“阿们”，使荣耀归于　神。(page 1871) Ephesians 1:11 Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan. 以弗所书 1:11: 我 们 也 在 他 里 面 得 （ 或 作 ： 成 ） 了 基 业 ； 这 原 是 那 位 随 己 意 行 、 做 万 事 的 ， 照 着 他 旨 意 所 预 定 的 (page 1894) Isaiah 49:8: "This is what the LORD says: 'In the time of my favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you.'" 耶和华如此说：“在悦纳的时候，我应允了你；在拯救的日子，我济助了你。我要保护你，使你做众民的中保[a]，复兴遍地，使人承受荒凉之地为业 (page 1194) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/29/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States