1 10 47 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/ace29eaeb39e6bcc7bb2ca13b6f4200f.jpg b7a52e59436067f28552e863dd02de19 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/911ee2a6ec22db61e015c8ddd4433180.mp4 e5974413479b85111793ed6b9fa60811 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 <h1>Peace with God: The Ultimate Gift Romans 5:1-2</h1> I was almost "done"...          almost. I did my part. I waited impatiently at the red light for my turn to cross the intersection onto a very busy midday Veterans parkway. The light turned green and I pressed the accelerator. Fortunately, I didn't floor it.  A big white truck decided to run their red light at over 60 miles an hour. Had I gone just a few feet further, nothing would have been the same for me.  I give God all the praise and I thank Him for His promised angels guarding me... but it sure got me to thinking about "stuff" - about what truly matters in this life. Ed Mylett asks a profound question: "What If This Was the Last Time?"  "Have you ever stopped to think, What if this was the last time I got to do this? Not the first time. The last time. That thought has been hitting me hard lately—and I believe it's one of the most powerful mindset shifts you can make to live a deeper, richer life."  Too often, we rush through our days on autopilot—scrolling, working, hustling—without realizing we're living what will one day be our "good old days." We treat moments with our kids, our friends, and our loved ones like they'll happen forever... until one day, they don't.  The Stoic principle "Memento mori," which translates to "remember you will die," reminds us of our mortality to encourage a more meaningful and purposeful life. As Seneca said, "Let us prepare our minds as if we'd come to the very end of life. Let us postpone nothing. Let us balance life's books each day... The one who puts the finishing touches on their life each day is never short of time."  But there's a deeper problem beyond our mortality. We were separated from God because of our sinful nature. The fall of man took us out of the garden and into this dysfunctional world. We all need Peace with God - we want to have a real, living relationship with our Creator, but we first must recognize our own desperate need for a savior. We can't fix this on our own. When we live without peace with God, we might still somehow be driven—but are we driven by the right things? If not, it's just OCD—obsessive behavior without purpose.  Even if people don't recognize it because their mind is cluttered by the cares of this world, Peace with God is what we all want. What we all need most.  1 Cori 1:18 tells us: "The message about the cross is nonsense to those who are being destroyed, but it is God's power to us who are being saved."   Without this peace, we remain distant from GOD, "living in the shadows of evil thoughts and actions," as Colossians describes. We remain separated from our Creator, unable to experience the relationship we were designed for. But God...  As the familiar verse says, "God so loved the world..."  Romans 5:1-2 declares: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand."  TPT: "Our faith in Jesus transfers God's righteousness to us and he now declares us flawless in his eyes. This means we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, has done for us."  Spurgeon so eloquently put it: "My entire theology can be condensed into four words: 'Jesus died for me.'"  This is the Message of the Cross. As 1 Cor 1:23 states: "We preach Christ crucified." God sent a savior because we needed to be saved. When we receive this gift of salvation through faith, look at what happens: Col 1:18-19, 21-22: "For God is satisfied to have all his fullness dwelling in Christ. And by the blood of his cross, everything in heaven and earth is brought back to himself—back to its original intent, restored to innocence again! Even though you were once distant from him, living in the shadows of your evil thoughts and actions, he reconnected you back to himself. He released his supernatural peace to you through the sacrifice of his own body as the sin-payment on your behalf so that you would dwell in his presence. And now there is nothing between you and Father God, for he sees you as holy, flawless, and restored."   The Amplified Bible expands (our KEY verses) Romans 5:1-2: "Therefore, since we have been justified [that is, acquitted of sin, declared blameless before God] by faith, let us grasp the fact that we have peace with God and the joy of reconciliation with Him through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through Him we also have access by faith into this remarkable state of grace in which we firmly and safely and securely stand. Let us rejoice in our hope and the confident assurance of experiencing and enjoying the glory of our great God—the manifestation of His excellence and power."  This Peace with God brings us: Justification and righteousness - Reconciliation with our Creator Access to God's presence - Security in His grace The love of God poured into our hearts - Confidence to approach God   I had a deep conversation with a good friend last week about whether it is proper for us to ask God to bless us.  I hadn’t realized this can be a real concern. This conversation was my initial inspiration for this message today.  Our salvation is our biggest gift - our biggest blessing from GOD. So as the scripture says, how will He not also give us all things?  Matthew 7:11 reminds us: "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!"  We assume people know things that just haven't always been properly taught to them. It is crucial we understand the truth that makes us free. Free to receive the Father's love and care.  We can be confident of His love for us because of Jesus.   The Wesleyan Tradition emphasizes:  Justification by Faith: Wesley believed that justification, the act of being declared righteous in God's sight, is received through faith in Jesus Christ. Peace with God: A key consequence of justification is that believers experience peace with God. This peace is a result of being reconciled to God through faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice. Access to God: Justification also grants believers access to God. This means they can approach God with confidence and boldness, knowing they are accepted and loved by Him. Love of God Shed Abroad: Wesley also highlights that the love of God is "shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost" (Romans 5:5), indicating a personal experience of God's love accompanying justification.  Aligning our thoughts and words is only possible as we properly renew our minds to Truth - truth that is found in God's Word about who we are in Christ. The New Testament emphasizes that God's love is the driving force behind the plan of salvation, which includes our justification. justification refers to God's act of declaring a sinner righteous and acceptable in His sight, based on the merits of Jesus Christ's sacrifice and through faith in Him. Justification, as understood through faith in Jesus Christ, reveals the depth of God's love for humanity.  Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us: "For by grace you have been saved by faith. Nothing you did could ever earn this salvation, for it was the love gift from God that brought us to Christ! So no one will ever be able to boast, for salvation is never a reward for good works or human striving."   ALL that GOD wants for you - all that He has for you - is yours (“yes” and “amen”)   if you can receive it by faith today.  Jesus stands at the door of your heart, and He is ready to come in to your heart today.  Romans 5:5: "God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."  Today’s KEY Verse: Romans 5:1: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."  > What would I want to share with the people God has given me to share with,  if I only had one last chance? < This message of Peace with God - because it's what matters most. Today, if you hear His voice, don't harden your heart. Receive His peace, His love, His salvation. It's the gift that truly matters in light of eternity. Jesus says, “Come” Jesus says, “All who are thirsty, come and drink”   John 7:37,38:  Jesus stood and shouted out to the crowds— “All you thirsty ones, come to me! Come to me and drink! Believe in me so that rivers of living water will burst out from within you, flowing from your innermost being, just like the Scripture says!” 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 Peace with God 与神相和 Description An account of the resource Romans 5:1,2: Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 羅馬書 5:1,2: 由于我们的信仰，我们得到了上帝的认可，通过我们的主耶稣基督，我们与上帝和平相处。通过我们的信仰，基督把我们带进了我们现在享有的上帝的恩典祝福里。我们非常欣喜，因为我们有希望分享上帝的荣耀。(page 1827) Col 1:19,20: For God is satisfied to have all his fullness dwelling in Christ. And by the blood of his cross, everything in heaven and earth is brought back to himself—back to its original intent, restored to innocence again! 歌罗西书 1:19,20: 因为上帝乐意让一切的丰盛住在祂里面，又借着祂在十字架上所流的血成就了和平，使天地万物借着祂与上帝和好。 (page1909) Colossians 1:21-22: Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. 歌罗西书 1:21,22: 你们从前与上帝隔绝，行事邪恶，心思意念与祂为敌；但现在上帝借着基督肉身的死使你们与祂和好了，让你们在祂面前成为圣洁无瑕、无可指责的人。(page 1909) Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace you have been saved by faith. Nothing you did could ever earn this salvation, for it was the love gift from God that brought us to Christ! So no one will ever be able to boast, for salvation is never a reward for good works or human striving. 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) 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 08/17/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 美国凤城山坡堂 3739 US 80 PO Box 8513 Columbus, Georgia 31908 Phenix City AL 36870 United States Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Video Language A language of the resource English audio and Chinese subtitles https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/2151f9290c7bcbfe0de3cdae96c5ebd4.jpg 0c494f4191b77ab61b2bf65dc8ec6876 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e21515a4e4e4572b732470613677e6c0.mp4 abda8be1c104c691c499d03bb97192f5 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 A Holy Calling 2025 2 Timothy 1:6-9 It is fun to explain to our international church family just how important college football is here in the Southern United States. “It’s not a matter of life or death, it is much more important than that”  Usually, we align ourselves with one school – one team – and then we stick with it, good years and bad years. When people ask me, as they often do in the south, who I pull for in college football, I let them know I am a lifelong Georgia fan. I tell them I was “literally born a Georgia Bulldog.” My mother and father went to school there, I grew up in Athens, and most of all, my dad was on the UGA football broadcast team when I was a wee young’un. You can’t argue with that, can you? Much MUCH more importantly, you and I, whether in the sanctuary or as a part of our online church family, are part of a bigger team with a much higher calling. What is Our Mission? What is Our Purpose? Nehemiah 2:17-18: “Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.” “Thankful people recognize the mission they have to fulfill and they rise and build.” Why are we thankful? vs 9: “He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” You have a holy calling on your life - and it already was there when you first opened your newborn eyes. Even before time began. Things to focus on today: share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God. He has saved us and called us with a holy calling not according to our works according to his own purpose and grace, given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. The change we want to see in our lives – our families – our community – our nation – starts with a new hope in our hearts. The change literally has to flow through us. “I would have been without hope if I had not believed that I would see the loving-kindness of the Lord in the land of the living.” This quote is from Psalm 27:13 and speaks to the importance of faith and hope - even in difficult times. It expresses the idea that without belief in God's ultimate goodness and a future in the "land of the living," a person would despair and lose hope. The verse encourages perseverance, strength, and courage in the face of adversity by focusing on a confident expectation of God's faithfulness. 2 Tim 1:12 (Paul) “The confidence of my calling enables me to overcome every difficulty without shame” If you’re still breathing – you’re still in this “It is not over” (We walk by faith) If you truly live by faith you believe that the battle is the Lord’s Faith Sees – Faith Believes – Faith Steps Out Psalm 27:14: Here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Don’t give up; don’t be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord. Be brave and courageous, and never lose hope. Yes, keep on waiting—for he will never disappoint you! In today’s lesson, Paul wrote to Timothy, “I’m writing to encourage you to fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you when I laid my hands upon you. For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.” Spurgeon: “Every living saint has (their) charge to keep, (their) talent over which they are a steward. A measure of a gift is in all of us, needing to be stirred up.” 2 Tim 1:6: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you…” Methodist Hymnal: A Charge to Keep I Have • “A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify” • “To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill…” Eph 2:10: "We are his workmanship" As we close out 2025, if we are determined to still to “rise and build,” we must do it through God’s Power at work within us. (2 Tim 1:9) “God saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace. He gave us this grace in King Jesus before all time and ages…” “Not according to our works” – which reminds me (reminds most of us, no doubt,) of Eph 2:8: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Spurgeon: “Again, in order to shut out everything like boasting, the whole is spoken of as a gift. Do notice that, "purpose and grace which He gave us" — not "which He sold us," "offered us," but "which He gave us." “God saved us and chose us to be his holy people. We did nothing to deserve this, but God planned it because he is so kind. Even before time began God planned for Christ Jesus to show kindness to us.” As a Believer: • You are Saved • You have a Holy Calling …and it is a gift of God We are to be Christian soldiers – putting on the gospel armor – holy instruments of God’s reconciliation. Are we up to the challenge? This is a tough season Jesus said (John 16:33) “I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” In our scripture today, Paul says we are to “share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God.” “fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you” This is our time to get strengthened and equipped Psalm 90:12: Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Now is the time to feed our faith and starve our doubts Embrace our total salvation by grace through faith God gives the believer “the Holy Spirit who gives (us) mighty power, love, and self-control.” The Living Word speaks to you and me in this hour just like it has in every hour and in every age – if we will listen and apply it AMP: [For it is He] Who delivered and saved us and called us with a calling in itself holy and leading to holiness [to a life of consecration, a vocation of holiness]; [He did it] not because of anything of merit that we have done, but because of and to further His own purpose and grace (unmerited favor) which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began [eternal ages ago]. omnipotence: the quality of having unlimited or very great power. universal power We serve an Omnipotent, Almighty God Rev 19:6 - Then I heard what seemed to be the thunderous voice of a great multitude, like the sound of a massive waterfall and mighty peals of thunder, crying out: “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns!” As a Believer: • You are Saved • You have a Holy Calling …and it is a gift of God They replied, “’Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work.” 2 Tim 1:2: I pray for a greater release of God’s grace, love, and total well-being to flow into your life from God our Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ! 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 A Holy Calling 神圣的呼召 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/23/2025 Description An account of the resource 2 Timothy 1:9: He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. 提摩太後書 1:9: 神救了我们，以圣召召我们，不是按我们的行为，乃是按他的旨意和恩典；这恩典是万古之先，在基督耶稣里赐给我们的， (page 1929) 2 Timothy 1:6,7: That is why I want you to remember the gift God gave you. God gave you that gift when I laid my hands on you. Now I want you to use that gift and let it grow more and more, like a small flame grows into a fire. 7 The Spirit God gave us does not make us afraid. His Spirit is a source of power and love and self-control. 提摩太後書 1:6,7:为此我提醒你，使你将神藉我按手所给你的恩赐再如火挑旺起来。因为神赐给我们，不是胆怯的心，乃是刚强、仁爱、谨守的心。 (pg 1929) Psalm 27:14: "Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!" 詩篇 27:14: 要等候耶和华！当壮胆，坚固你的心！我再说，要等候耶和华！(page 905) Ephesians 2:10: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them 以弗所書 2:10: 我们原是他的工作，在基督耶稣里造成的，为要叫我们行善，就是神所预备叫我们行的。 (page 1895) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/24b409adba76b5b9bbcdf2ccb7316587.jpeg 6e02f84bd1bfedc965d6bb9290f6900e https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/a67267512a8a3d6c61d6f04a421697bd.mp4 94dd3d22eeacd4b908409e55918a85a4 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 A New World Romans 11:33-36 Give a Great Speech: 3 Tips from Aristotle • Tell them what you’re going to tell them. • Tell them • Tell them what you’ve just told them. So… I am going to begin today with a summary of what you’re about to hear. “Nothing in your life can ever really change if you’re way of thinking remains the same.” Your first thought may be, “I know what he’s going to say. He’s talked about this before.” If that is your thought right now, you definitely need to hear this message. Have you ever tried to talk to someone and they say “I know” as soon as you start talking? …or worse yet, they start filling in the… blanks? Finishing your… sentences? It was once said: “Knowing it all is nothing but an illusion of knowledge.” The impulse to tell ourselves that we already know something is a conditioned response. The “know-it-all” is programmed to believe that way – and they don’t even know it. Here’s a super-big challenge for us today: First of all, can you admit that maybe there is something in your life that is not quite “perfect” just yet? ( ) If you’re honest enough to admit that – even if only to yourself, then this might just indicate that you don’t quite know it all yet. Encyclopedias were great, but… “You can’t use an old map to explore a new world” Can you embrace this opportunity right now to approach today with a grateful heart to be able open GOD’s Word together accept the challenge to learn and grow? To find new answers today? Isaiah 55:8,9: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,”declares the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” “What are you giving up for lent?” For this fresh new Lenten season, maybe what we should “give up” is our own presuppositions about Who God is – and what He wants to do with us in 2025? Romans 11:33-36: Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! For who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back? For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen. “Nothing in your life can ever really change if you’re way of thinking remains the same.” Being a “know-it-all” and being negative minded usually seem to go together. It makes sense – because if you already “know” everything, where is the HOPE of learning more – ? - or things getting better for you? Welcome to Lent 2025. Are we willing to give up what we “know” for what God is trying to reveal to us? The most used scripture for the start of the Lenten season is from the book of Joel: That is why the LORD says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. 13 Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish. (Joel 2:12,13) I started pastoral ministry with very little traditional Methodist background. My two Methodist pastors were both very non-traditional. And they were both two of the strongest voices in my life as mentors and as Godly men who lived by example. We learn – and we grow. Our understanding expands as we allow ourselves to become teachable. Horace said, “Men cease to think when they think they know it all.” We build our faith on a foundation of scripture and tradition, so we have to make sure we are always building it on truth. There are many well-meaning but misguided people who would minimize what GOD is able to do in your life today – - despite what is happening all over the planet - - and it is all because they have been taught wrong. You cannot have faith for something that you don’t believe is the will of GOD. Right Believing will produce Right Results. A limited Gospel is a powerless message that will not change this world. My trip to Wales My one desire for that trip was to visit where the Welsh Revival bagn. Historically, the revolutionary prayers of Evan Roberts and a small group of praying people changed an entire nation. Had they not had the faith to believe that “all things are indeed possible to those who can believe” – what would have happened? Would there have been a Welsh revival? Would thousands have been saved and multitudes of lives transformed? Evan Roberts: “The Power of the revival in South Wales is not of men, but all of God. He has been close to us and has shown us the way. … I have merely preached the religion of Jesus Christ as I myself have experienced it. God has “made me glad,” and I am showing others the great joy of serving Him, a joy so great and so wonderful that I shall never be able to express it in its completeness. We are teaching no sectarian doctrine, only the wonder and the beauty of Christ’s love, the love of man for Him, and the love of man for man. I have been asked concerning my methods. I have none. I never prepare the words I shall speak. I leave all that to Him. I am not the source of this revival. I am only one agent in what is growing to be a multitude. I am not moving men’s hearts and changing men’s lives; not I, but “God worketh in me.” I have found what is, in my belief, the highest kind of Christianity. I desire to give my life, which is all I have to give, to helping others to find it also. Many have already found it, thank God, and many more are finding it through them.” The Prophet Joel: ‘In the last days,’ God says,‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants — men and women alike — and they will prophesy. People all over the world are praying for and expecting a new “Great Awakening” like we read about in times past. An awakening where men and women’s hearts are once more turned to the Lord in repentance and submission to GODs Word. When their eyes are opened to the truth and are no longer blinded by the lies of the world – the media – the carnal globalists who want to strip you of your uncompromised faith. We know that revival – the Great Awakening – starts with the believers. 2 Chron 7:14: “ …if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Jung's idea is that we don't see God because we don't look low enough. We have to humble ourselves and pray and seek GOD’s face and turn from our wicked ways. …Just like they did in England… in Germany – in Wales – with the early settlers in America - and anywhere that GOD moved and changed the landscape with the truth of the Gospel. We must take the limits off of what GOD can do by building our foundation of faith on the truth of GODs Word and no longer believing for anything less than true Holy Ghost revival in our lives – in our churches – and in our communities. 2 Tim 1:6 reminds us to “stir up the gifts that are inside of us.” ? Is your heart cold and un-stirrable today – or can it yet again be touched by Holy Spirit’s still small voice today? Heb 3:11: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion." “Nothing in your life can ever really change if you’re way of thinking remains the same.” If you’re ready to change today – you will have to learn to look forward again. You will have to be open to hearing a New Word from GOD today. One word from God today can change your life forever. 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 A New World 新世界 Description An account of the resource Romans 11:33-36: Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! For who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back? For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen. 羅馬書 11:33-36: 上帝的怜悯是何其地丰富，他的智慧和知识是何其地深奥！他的判断是何其难测！他的道理是多么地难以理解！正如《经》上说的那样：“谁知道上帝的心思？谁能当上帝的参谋？”“谁先给过上帝什么，使他不得不偿还呢？”万物都是上帝创造的。万物都是通过他，也是为了他而存在的。愿荣耀永远属于他！阿们。 (page 1839) Joel 2:12,13: That is why the LORD says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish. 约珥书 2:12,13: 耶和华说：“现在，你们要禁食、哭泣、哀号，全心回转归向我。”你们要撕心般地悔改，而不是撕裂衣服。归向你们的上帝耶和华吧，因为祂有恩典和怜悯，不轻易发怒，有无限的慈爱，不忍心降灾祸。(page 1480) 2 Chron 7:14: if they pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been doing, then I will hear them in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their land prosperous again. 历代志下 7:14: 而这些被称为我名下的子民若谦卑下来，祈祷、寻求我的面，离开恶道，我必从天上垂听，赦免他们的罪，医治他们的土地。(page 721) 2 Tim 1:6: I’m writing to encourage you to fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you when I laid my hands upon you. 提摩太后书 1:6: 因此我提醒你，要把上帝在我把手按在你身上时赐给你的恩赐充分发挥出来。 (page 1929) 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 03/09/2025 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/c14ff62c3957ffd32715a8dc1372e872.jpg 70a2355989f43cbea691b7950936c706 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/9fd8725cdebb69a770b575c85d0698bd.mp4 f68577650491dfe8cb69eed302173b84 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 A Return to Sanity From Old Form to New Life (Psalm 23) There are certain scripture passages and verses that form the bedrock of our Christian faith: John 3:16 Jesus teaching what came to be referred to as “the Lord’s Prayer” (Matthew 6:9-13) The opening verses of the first chapter of the Gospel of John “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us…” …and the 23rd Psalm One of my favorite and most quoted parts of that chapter is Psalm 23:3: “He restores my soul – He leads me in paths of righteousness” I want to begin this morning by saying something simple: God wants to restore us. Restoration assumes something was off. Something was not right The quest for restoration should begin the moment we realize it is needed in our lives. One of my favorite movies opens with this line: “A beginning is a very delicate time.” And today—this first Sunday of 2026—is a beginning. Not necessarily a loud one or a dramatic one. …But a delicate one. Proverbs reminds us to know the importance of the season we are in. Not every season is for speed. Some seasons are for alignment. Psalm 16:11: Thou wilt show me the path of life Let me ask you something gently… Were there moments in 2025 where you took actions that didn’t seem in line with your goals… your values… …or even your own character? Moments where later you thought, “What was I thinking?” Shakespeare once lamented, “These rebel powers that thee array…” talking about forces inside the soul that pull us off course. “these “rebel powers” in the soul replaying” (forces that doubt belong there) anger. resentment. guilt. bitterness. unforgiveness. We all know them. The TV commercial asks, “What’s in your wallet?” But maybe our deeper question should be: “What’s in your soul?” Sometimes we kinda need a setback to prepare us for a comeback. And so much of recovery — so much of restoration— can be traced back to one thing: A return to sanity. In the Twelve Steps, Step Two says this: “Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” Sanity simply means: reasonable, sound, clear thinking. Living in alignment with reality. I submit to you: Insanity, then, isn’t madness — it’s misalignment. “He wasn’t in his right mind when he did that” “not being in your right mind” can mean all kinds of things. It doesn’t have to be addiction or something that people can see outwardly It can be anger, resentment, anxiety, unforgiveness, being judgemental Someone once said, “That rare person who truly sees their betrayal by their own wrong ideas is ready to awaken.” A wake-up call is really a return to sanity. That’s mercy. Jesus gives us a perfect picture of this in Luke 15. (Prodigal Son) Luke 15:17 says,“When he came to himself…” That’s restored sanity. TPT says, “Humiliated, the son finally realized what he was doing.” Not condemned. Not rejected. Awakened. Truth did something nothing else could do. Truth can show mercy toward you by being merciless toward everything that is harming you. “The TRUTH shall set you free” 3 John 2 says, “…even as your soul prospers.” God desires your life to flourish— but flourishing follows restoration. Our souls need to be restored to God’s divine settings so that our souls can prosper, so that our lives can flow the way they were designed to flow. …so that we can accomplish our “Divine To-Do’s” This isn’t about trying harder. It’s about returning to alignment. Proverbs 8 says this: “If you wait at wisdom’s doorway, longing to hear a word for every day, joy will break forth within you as you listen.” Listen to this line: “…the fountain of life pours into you every time you find me.” (ref: Prov 8:34) That’s not striving. That’s beholding. But Proverbs also warns us: Ignoring wisdom brings harm to your own soul. Not punishment — harm. The opposite of sanity is in-sanity. Scripture describes insanity this way: “Like a dog returning to its vomit.” This comes from Proverbs 26:11 and describes a fool who repeats their foolish mistakes … someone going back to harmful or sinful behaviors, even after knowing better … it’s going back to what once made us sick and wondering why we still feel unwell. So when we ask, “What was I thinking?” the honest answer is often: “I was thinking — but I was thinking carnally.” “To be carnally minded is death.” Carnal thinking disconnects us from reality. But Proverbs 9:10 says, “The starting point for acquiring wisdom is to be consumed with awe as you worship the Lord.” “Consumed with awe.” Isn’t that what we’ve been talking about? Isn’t that beholding? Transformation doesn’t start with effort. It starts with awe. One of the clearest signs of insanity is often revealed in the way we speak. Why would we curse ourselves? Why would we speak against our future? 1 Peter 3:10 says, “Whoever desires to love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil.” Words reveal what’s happening in the soul. …those “rebel forces” Wisdom guards the mouth because wisdom guards the soul. This year isn’t about becoming someone else. It’s about coming back to yourself — the self God intended …before fear, distraction, and misalignment set in. Psalm 23:3 doesn’t say, “He pushes my soul.” It says, “He restores my soul.” Restoration is not force. It’s return. “Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD Almighty. From old form - to new life. From confusion - to clarity. From insanity - to sanity. So today, don’t rush this new beginning. It’s a delicate time. Let Him restore your soul. Father, We come before You now not to fix ourselves, not to promise improvement, but to return. We confess that at times we have lived out of alignment— thinking without awe, speaking without wisdom, moving without clarity. And yet You have not withdrawn. You have remained near. You are the One Who restores our souls. So we yield the noise within us. We release the old ways of thinking, the old fears, the old forms that no longer belong to the life You are shaping in us. We choose stillness over striving. Awe over anxiety. Wisdom over impulse. Restore our souls to Your divine settings. Bring us back to clarity. Bring us back to truth. Bring us back to ourselves as You intended us to be. As we behold You, quietly and honestly, let our thinking be healed, our words be purified, and our lives realigned. We trust You with this beginning. It is delicate — and it is held in Your hands. We rest in You. We return to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. 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 A Return to Sanity 《回归清醒》 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/04/2026 Description An account of the resource Psalm 23:3: He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 詩篇 23: 3: 他使我的灵魂苏醒，为自己的名引导我走义路。(pg 901) Psalm 16:11: Thou wilt show me the path of life; in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. 詩篇 16:11: 你必将生命的道路指示我。在你面前有满足的喜乐；在你右手中有永远的福乐。(page 892) Romans 8:6 - The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 羅馬書 8:6: 如果你们的思想受罪恶自我的控制，只能导致死亡。如果你们的思想受灵的控制，你们就会得到生命与和平。(page 1832) John 8:32: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 約翰福音 8:32: 你们必晓得真理，真理必叫你们得以自由。(page 1734) 3 John 1:2 - Beloved, I pray you to prosper concerning all things and to be in good health, just as your soul prospers. 約翰三書 2: 亲爱的兄弟阿，我愿你凡事兴盛，身体健壮，正如你的灵魂兴盛一样。 (page 1985) Prov 9:10: The starting point for acquiring wisdom is to be consumed with awe as you worship the Lord. 箴言 9:10:智慧始于敬畏耶和华，认识至圣者便是明智。 (pg 1045) Psalm 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. 詩篇 23: 3: 我一生一世必有恩惠慈爱随着我；我且要住在耶和华的殿中，直到永远。(pg 901) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/7781f1bc394533b44a6712f7f8530fee.jpeg 70414ba4fc6a019e8fdcfac026141da4 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/6310ae40a053c1da741a2a73b43aae05.mp4 ba04a19cc8fcecaee13f761eb232941d 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 Divine Alignment: John 17:3 Part of owning an automobile is doing regular required maintenance. Getting regular frontend alignments can prevent unnecessary wear on your tires, as well as provide a safer and smoother ride down the highways. Hitting a pothole in the road can instantly put your frontend out of alignment. Sounds kinda like life, doesn't it? Alignment: arrangement in a straight line, or in correct or appropriate relative positions; a position of agreement or alliance. Isaiah 40:3 declares: "Listen! It's the voice of someone shouting, 'Clear the way through the wilderness for the Lord! Make a straight highway through the wasteland for our God!'" For us as Christians, alignment means readjusting ourselves. Getting back on track. Removing the hindrances that block God's power. When we are in “Misalignment” we drift and get off-track (“wandering generality”) We all experience seasons when our lives fall out of divine alignment. Our thoughts become stagnant, our faith weakens, and our spiritual momentum slows. Ron Carpenter puts it this way: "You are never truly stuck in life—only in thought. When your mindset stagnates, so does your momentum. God's Word is the cleansing agent for 'stinking thinking,' realigning your internal world to reflect His truth. As your mind is renewed, your path will begin to move again, aligned with your thoughts and faith." This misalignment manifests in our attitudes and actions. (double-minded) Tony Robbins reminds us: "All beliefs carry with them consequences." Our beliefs—created by what we hear, read, watch, and meditate on—have consequences that either keep us in alignment or throw us out of alignment. The Solution is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ Our key verse today, John 17:3, reveals the solution: "Eternal life means to know and experience you as the only true God, and to know and experience Jesus Christ, as the Son whom you have sent." In this prayer, Jesus defines eternal life not just as living forever, but as a relationship of knowing God the Father and Jesus Christ. This knowledge is described as an intimate, experiential understanding that transforms one's life. Romans 5:17 affirms this truth: "Death once held us in its grip... But now, how much more are we held in the grip of grace and continue reigning as kings in life, enjoying our regal freedom through the gift of perfect righteousness in the one and only Jesus, the Messiah!" Romans 6:9 tells us: "Since Jesus has been raised from the dead to die no more, his resurrection life has vanquished death and its power over Him is finished." As Spurgeon beautifully expressed: "Our gracious Lord has many 'agains' in His dealings with us. He gave us pardon, and He sees us again and repeats the absolving word as fresh sins cause us grief. He has revealed to us our acceptance before God, and when our faith in that blessing grows a little dim, He comes to us again and again and says, 'Peace be unto you,' and our hearts are glad." Tony Robbins: “All beliefs carry with them consequences” Our beliefs – which are created by what we hear, read, watch and meditate on, have consequences that either keep us in alignment or throw us out of alignment. If I keep believing what I am believing – if my thoughts and actions continue down this same path – where will it lead me? Where will I end up? We get out of Divine Alignment, and we need to repent. To get back on the “straight and narrow.” A Life in Divine Alignment Imagine what your life would look like in perfect divine alignment—where your attitudes and actions reflect the truth of who God is and who you are in Christ. Luke 3:4-5 paints this picture: "Make straight every twisted thing in your lives. Bring into the light every dark way. Make right every wrong. Remove injustice. Every heart of pride will humbly bow before him. Every deception will be exposed and replaced by the truth to prepare everyone everywhere to see the Life of God!" When we're in alignment, our focus shifts from self-preservation to contribution. We naturally uplift others and "encourage one another" as Scripture instructs. This doesn't mean burning ourselves out—Godly wisdom knows when to "sharpen the saw" and rest. A life in divine alignment is characterized by: • Truth that turns to power to overcome • A heart that remains teachable • A life that experiences the goodness of God in the land of the living • A new wineskin ready to receive fresh revelation • An upgraded belief system based on God's Word Today, don’t just embrace these TRUTHS intellectually – bury them deep within your heart with extreme GRATITUDE You’ve no doubt heard of the placebo effect a beneficial effect produced by a placebo drug or treatment, which cannot be attributed to the properties of the placebo itself, and must therefore be due to the patient's belief in that treatment. …but have you heard of The “nocebo effect?” The nocebo effect is a phenomenon where a person experiences negative symptoms or worsening of their condition due to their negative beliefs or expectations We may find ourselves embracing this 'nocebo effect'—where negative beliefs produce negative outcomes in our lives. Just as the placebo effect shows how positive belief can create positive outcomes, the nocebo effect demonstrates how negative expectations can manifest harmful results. Everyone has a form of faith – but if you believe wrong, you are no doubt living in fear – which is a counter-productive form of faith if your thoughts aren't aligned with God’s Word, your mind will resist what your spirit knows. an unrenewed mind will fight against the Word of God Our faith should be an expectation based on God’s Word “Good Things” When we choose to get back into Divine Alignment – Divine Purpose – we stop accepting numbness and mediocrity. We say “no” to living small and say “Yes” to the continuous growth and expansion God had planned for us in advance. We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake, not by mechanical aid, but by an infinite expectation of the dawn. All beliefs have consequences Luke 3:4,5: “Make straight every twisted thing in your lives. Bring into the light every dark way. Make right every wrong. Remove injustice. Every heart of pride will humbly bow before him. Every deception will be exposed and replaced by the truth to prepare everyone everywhere to see the Life of God!” Action Steps Toward Realignment Today, I'm calling you to take specific steps toward divine alignment: 1. Don't just embrace these truths intellectually—bury them deep within your heart with extreme GRATITUDE. Allow God to plow up your heart for the seed of the Living Word. Commit to the lifelong journey of faith—this is not some "quick fix"—this is YOUR LIFE! Move from an "old testament" mindset into your NEW Testament reality. The Ongoing Journey of Alignment Brothers and Sisters, it's time for your attitude (your heart) and your actions to come into Divine Alignment. This alignment positions you to experience what Jesus defined as eternal life—knowing and experiencing God and His Son. Jesus prayed to the Father: "Eternal life means to know and experience you as the only true God, and to know and experience Jesus Christ, as the Son whom you have sent." All beliefs carry with them consequences. Maybe it's time for your beliefs to get an upgrade? As we close today, I challenge you: Are you still "teachable?" Is your heart a New Wineskin that can accept what God would say to you now – in 2025? Sometimes we have to release the old to embrace the new things God wants to reveal to us. Gal 5:9: Don't you know that when you allow even a little lie into your heart, it can permeate your entire belief system? Have you been discouraged by past attempts at realigning your life that seemingly end in failure? We get out of Divine Alignment, and we need to repent… …To get back on the “straight and narrow.” Jesus: “It is difficult to go through the small gate. And it is difficult to walk on the narrow road. But when you do go that way, you will get true life. Not many people find that narrow gate.” The process of getting out of alignment could be very gradual. One small error in judgement – one bad choice. ( ) Holy Spirit can reveal to us that moment where we started to get off course. ( ) Repent from that moment. What started as a small step off-course gradually takes us far away – we drift until we are shocked to find ourt how far away we are. …but it all started with an initial step away from the path. Here is our hope: 2 Cor 3:17: Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. Romans 8:7-9: In fact, the mind-set focused on the flesh fights God’s plan and refuses to submit to his direction, because it cannot! For no matter how hard they try, God finds no pleasure with those who are controlled by the flesh. But when the Spirit of Christ empowers your life, you are not dominated by the flesh but by the Spirit. Let's pray together for divine alignment in every area of our lives: Lord, I ask You to help me surrender my thoughts to Your truth. Teach me how to renew my mind daily through Your Word so that my spirit and soul can walk in unity. I don’t want to waste my anointing on recovery—I want to walk boldly in purpose. z In Jesus' name, amen. Heb 13:21: May he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. 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 ALIGNMENT 校准 Description An account of the resource John 17:3: "Eternal life means to know and experience you as the only true God, and to know and experience Jesus Christ, as the Son whom you have sent." 约翰福音 17:3: 这永生就是，认识你——独一的真神，并且认识你所差来的耶稣基督。(page 1752) Isaiah 40:3: Listen! It's the voice of someone shouting, 'Clear the way through the wilderness for the Lord! Make a straight highway through the wasteland for our God!’ 以赛亚书 40:3: 听啊，有人高喊：“在旷野预备耶和华的道， 在沙漠修直我们上帝的路。(1175) Romans 5:17: Death once held us in its grip... But now, how much more are we held in the grip of grace and continue reigning as kings in life, enjoying our regal freedom through the gift of perfect righteousness in the one and only Jesus, the Messiah! 罗马书 5:17: 如果因一人的过犯，死亡就借着那人做了王，那么接受上帝洪恩又得到祂所赐之义的人，岂不更要借着耶稣基督一人在生命中做王吗？ (page 1828) Luke 3:4,5: "Make straight every twisted thing in your lives. Bring into the light every dark way. Make right every wrong. Remove injustice. Every heart of pride will humbly bow before him. Every deception will be exposed and replaced by the truth to prepare everyone everywhere to see the Life of God!" 路加福音 3:4,5: 这正应验了以赛亚先知书上的话：“在旷野有人大声呼喊，“‘预备主的道，修直祂的路。一切山谷将被填满，大山小丘将被削平，弯曲的道路要被修直，崎岖的路径要被铺平。'" (page 1660) Matt 7:14: “It is difficult to go through the small gate. And it is difficult to walk on the narrow road. But when you do go that way, you will get true life. Not many people find that narrow gate.” 马太福音 7:14: 但通向永生的门小，路窄，找到的人也少 (p 1568) 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 08/03/2025 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/e91f971a97a94ec2179f5f459f755913.PNG 2679d0e28dec3601cd47f4ba64ab95c0 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/3aa8f23192947c1949d774568ded0d52.mp4 f254bd471ae6ba4cc25346f899f39bc2 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 “Changed by Beholding—Not by Trying” 2 Corinthians 3:18 Triggers. Pushing my buttons. 2025: Am I being changed? “How can I change the world if I can’t change myself?” Good morning, church. (ever had to do a book report?) I want to talk with you today about a powerful book written many years ago — and a truth that has changed my walk with God. The book is called “Changed Into His Likeness” It’s the simple but powerful idea that we are not changed by striving… …we are changed by beholding. The author didn’t just believe these words he shared – he gave his life for them. to “behold” To look at or see with attention - to regard or contemplate something. John 1:29: John the Baptist sees Jesus and proclaims, "Behold the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world". By identifying Jesus as the Lamb of God, John is identifying him as the ultimate sacrifice sent by God to pay for the sins of the world, bringing redemption We must all behold Him – as our Savior, Healer, Provider, and Redeemer. 2 Cor 3:18: “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” If we have “un-veiled faces,” that must mean The Veil Has Been Lifted Under the old covenant, a veil covered people’s hearts. They saw God through the lens of their own effort …and their own failures. But today, as Paul says, “We all — with unveiled face — behold the glory of the Lord.” That means when Jesus died on that cross and the veil of the temple was torn in two, God was saying: “The striving is over. The way is open. Stop trying to become what only My Grace can make you.” Some of us have been trying so hard to change ourselves. (Amen?) Trying to be more patient, more loving, more spiritual. Grace doesn’t say “try harder” — grace says “look closer.” Look to Jesus. (as Christians, we should always point people in one direction – to Jesus) Heb 12:2: Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. When you look at yourself, (honestly) you may feel condemned. When you look at Jesus, you’ll feel transformed. We are changed into His likeness as we behold Him. Galatians 2:20 says, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” The author calls this the secret of the Christian life: “God’s means of deliverance from sin is not to strengthen our old self, but to replace it with Christ” You see, God’s not trying to improve your flesh. He’s given you a new spirit — His Spirit. He doesn’t want a better “you.” He wants a Christ-in-you. Let’s say that together: “It’s no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” That means when you wake up in the morning, you can say, “Jesus, Live through me today. Love through me. Think through me. Speak through me.” And as you do, by His grace, you’ll find that you’re becoming more and more like Him — not by effort, but by overflow “we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus.” Now listen carefully — this is the heart of this message and the heart of grace itself. We are changed into His likeness as we behold Him. When we spend time in His Word — not to get points, not to perform, but just to see Him revealed — we’re actually being transformed. We may not always be aware of it, but the Spirit is doing a quiet miracle inside of us. Jesus said (John 6:63) “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” “His Word is working mightily in me.” It’s like standing in the sunlight. You don’t have to try to get warm — you just stay there long enough, and the warmth finds you. Moses’ face shone because he beheld the Lord on the mountain. We stay in His Presence — and it will begin to shine from our lives.  Now, grace does not mean laziness. It means learning the rhythm of Heaven: rest comes before results. …the “the unforced rhythms of grace” mentioned in Matt 11 When you know you’ve been made righteous, you’ll start living righteously. When you know you’re forgiven, you’ll start forgiving more easily. When you know that you’re loved, you’ll start loving more freely. That’s the “from glory to glory” life Paul talked about. Stop measuring your progress by your performance. Start measuring it by your posture — Are you resting in Him? Are you beholding Him? Because that’s where the Spirit does His best work. 2 Corinthians 3:18 ends by saying, “…just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” Zechariah 4:6: It’s “not by might, not by power, but by His Spirit.” Growth comes through spiritual disciple. The key word there is spiritual Time in God’s Presence. It involves deliberate effort, but the more importantly it requires surrender. You and I can’t make ourselves more like Jesus — but the Holy Spirit can, and He’s already at work in you. Every time you turn your heart toward Jesus… Every time you worship when it’s hard… Every time you choose to believe you’re loved instead of condemned… He’s shaping you into the image of the Son. That’s the miracle of grace. Every time the enemy brings accusations before God, the blood of Jesus speaks louder. It declares you forgiven, redeemed, and justified. The cross already settled your case — your past has no legal right to condemn your future. The accuser may bring up your record, but the blood of the Lamb erased every charge and stamped your life “Paid in Full.” Start your day with identity. Before your feet hit the floor, whisper: “I am the righteousness of God in Christ.” Say it until your heart believes it. Feed on His Word of grace. Don’t just read His Word for information — read for revelation. Ask, “Jesus, where are You in this passage?” Look to Jesus, not to yourself. When you fail — and you will sometimes — don’t turn inward in shame. Turn upward in faith. The same Jesus who saved you is still the One who sanctifies you. Rest in His love. Grace is not a push; it’s a pull. Let His love pull you into the kind of life you were made to live. 2 Tim 2:22: Whatever builds up your faith and deepens your love must become your holy pursuit. And if you’ll just keep beholding Jesus, one day soon you’ll step out radiant, renewed, changed into His likeness — from glory to glory. Let’s pray together. “Lord Jesus, thank You that transformation isn’t my burden — it’s Your promise. Thank You that as I behold You, I am changed into Your likeness. Not by my effort, but by Your Spirit. Not by the law, but by grace. Today I rest in Your finished work, and I receive Your life in me. In Jesus’ Name — Amen.” Now, say this with me: “I am changed — because I behold Jesus. I am free — because the veil is gone. I am loved — because of His grace. And I am being transformed — from glory to glory!” Church, this week, don’t strive to become. Behold who you already are in Him. …And you’ll find His likeness shining through your life more than ever before. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: "Salvation isn't merely about forgiveness, but about being "conformed to the image of his son" Romans 8:29: God knew from the beginning who would put their trust in Him. So He chose them and made them to be like His Son. What does it mean to reflect the glory of God? It means to be conformed to the image of God. It means to turn away from oneself and trust wholly in Christ. We are changed into His likeness as we behold Him. Heb 12:2: Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. 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 BEHOLD 看哪 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/02/2025 Description An account of the resource 2 Corinthians 3:18: But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 歌林多後書 3:18: 我们的脸不被蒙上。我们都显示了主的荣耀。我们都变得像他一样，在我们中的这种变化会带来了越来越多的荣耀。这荣耀来自主，即圣灵。(page 1873) John 1:29: The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 约翰福音 1:29: 次日，约翰看见耶稣来到他那里，就说： “看哪，神的羔羊，除去[a]世人罪孽的！ (page 1717) Galatians 2:20: I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 加拉太書 2:20: 所以，现在活在我体内的不再是我本人，而是基督。我凭信仰生活在上帝之子之中，他爱我，并为我牺牲了自己。(page 1887) 2 Tim 2:22: Whatever builds up your faith and deepens your love must become your holy pursuit. 提摩太后书 2:22: 你要逃避少年的私欲，同那清心祷告主的人追求公义、信德、仁爱、和平。(page 1931) 2 Corinthians 5:21: God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 哥林多后书 5:21: 神使那无罪[a]的替我们成为罪，好叫我们在他里面成为神的义。(page 1875) Zechariah 4:6: Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. 撒迦利亚书 4:6: 万军之耶和华说，‘不靠权势，不靠才能，乃靠我的灵。(page 1539) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 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/5c94cc80d963f84c975a66475292cc5c.jpg 3b782b9775a49423b0dc392499837ce0 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e50201d796b5ffdb50898dca4d39674e.mp4 5278e34b8e29db4fc7abd6a41ffcc26c 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 Spiritual Compass Aligning Our Words and Thoughts with God Our Spiritual Alignment Like a compass that guides a hiker through wilderness, God's Word provides direction for our spiritual journey. When we lose alignment, we experience consequences in body, mind, and spirit. Our Guiding Verse "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." Two Things We Can Control In a world spinning out of control, we can still control our thoughts and our words. These are the compass points that keep us aligned with God's purposes. Using Your Spiritual Compass Daily <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Realign regularly 2. Drive on (looking forward, not repeating cycles) 3. Watch your words 4. Guard your thoughts 5. Expect good things</li> </ol> Scripture References Psalm 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." (KJV) Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." (NIV) 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone. The new is here." (NIV) Romans 6:11 "In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." (NIV) Proverbs 4:25-26 "Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Decide carefully where you are going in life. Then you will be on a good, safe path." (NIV/NLT)       Discussion Questions <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;">In what areas of your life do you feel most out of alignment with God's purposes?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">What old patterns or labels are you holding onto that God may be asking you to release?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">How can you better align your words and thoughts with God's truth this week?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">What specific scripture can serve as your compass point when you feel lost or disoriented?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">How might your life change if you consistently applied the five daily practices mentioned in the sermon?</li> </ol> Key Takeaways <ul style="font-weight: 400;"> <li>Your words and thoughts are your spiritual compass — they determine your direction and destination (Psalm 19:14)</li> <li>You cannot enter a new season with yesterday's mindset — transformation requires releasing old patterns (2 Corinthians 5:17)</li> <li>Being 'in Christ' means the old is already gone, even when you still feel familiar — walk in who God says you are (Romans 6:11)</li> <li>Alignment requires regular maintenance — realign your thoughts and words with God's truth daily (Romans 12:2)</li> <li>Expect God's goodness as you walk in alignment — He withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11)</li> </ul>   The Spiritual Compass: Aligning Our Words and Thoughts with God Traveling with my mother in the pre-GPS days taught me an important lesson. We decided, "Just keep going in the same direction and somewhere the road will open up again." That's what alignment is all about—staying on track and continuing to move in the right direction. Isn't that how a compass works? It points us in the right direction even when there is no outward indication that we are moving forward properly. A hiker might use a compass while in the wilderness to ensure they're following the correct path, even when there is no visible trail. In our spiritual journey, we need a reliable spiritual compass to guide us through life's wilderness. Our key verse today gives us clear guidelines on how we can keep on track with God. Psalm 19:14 - "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." In a world spinning out of control, we may somehow find ourselves disoriented, unsure of which direction to take. Many of us have grown up in church, hearing Scripture our whole lives. But familiarity can breed complacency. If we're not careful, we filter what we hear based on our previous understanding. That could be good—but it could also be dangerous to our spiritual growth. We find ourselves emotionally attached to outdated versions of ourselves, wearing labels God never gave us, and defending patterns that destroy our potential. We say, "That's just who I am," but at that point, we're not following our spiritual compass—we're following a comfortable pattern, a routine, our old programming. We get stuck in cycles of: - Insecurity – Judgmental attitudes - Procrastination - Spiritual laziness - Negative thought patterns - Harmful speech habits Our Bible talks about how we are to walk in a way pleasing to God: - Psalm 15:2: "The one who walks with integrity, who does what is right, and speaks truth in his heart..." Ephesians 4:1: "...walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called." But how do we maintain this alignment when life constantly tries to pull us off course? We need a compass “May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.” When we lose our spiritual alignment, we experience consequences in all three parts of our lives: - Body - Mind - Spirit We become incomplete, fragmented, unable to experience the fullness God intends for us. As Myles Munroe wisely observed: "You can't enter your next season wearing yesterday's mindset. People pray for God to elevate them while still holding on to the insecurities, habits, and fears that define who they used to be. They want resurrection without crucifixion. They want promotion without preparation." When our compass is pointed in the wrong direction, we: - Remain trapped in old patterns - Miss divine opportunities - Speak words that tear down rather than build up - Fill our minds with thoughts that limit rather than liberate - Fail to reflect true Kingdom living God won’t pour fresh oil into an old vessel. Something has to break. Something has to be released. Our key verse reveals that in a world out of control, there are two things we can control: our thoughts and our words. "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." This is our spiritual compass—aligning both our speech and our thoughts with God's truth. When properly calibrated, this compass works in all three parts of our lives: body, mind, and spirit, making us "complete in Him." Romans 6:11 provides a powerful recalibration point: "In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." This verse emphasizes our identity in Christ, highlighting a shift from a life dominated by sin to one alive in God's grace. When we're making critical life decisions, when we're being tempted to make less-than-wise choices, our compass should always redirect our thoughts with this truth: "alive to God in Christ Jesus." Meditate on that truth. Declare that truth. When we follow this spiritual compass, our lives begin to reflect true Kingdom living. This is being "transformed by the renewing of our minds" (Romans 12:2). God is always calling us out of darkness, out of the ritual, habitual patterns that are holding us down in life. Your compass should always redirect you with Divine Thoughts that are full of faith, hope, and expectancy. "When you lose your path, you get an opportunity to discover a world you have never known—and better worlds are often found this way!" 2 Cor 5:17 declares: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone. The new is here." It doesn't say the old will go when you feel ready. It doesn't say the new will come when it's convenient. It boldly affirms that the moment you are in Christ, the old is over—the old habits, the old mindset, the old pain, the old narrative. That means God sees you as new, even if you still feel familiar. And the journey of growth is choosing to walk in who God says you are, even when it's uncomfortable. How do we practically implement this spiritual compass in our daily lives? 1. **Realign regularly**: Sometimes we get off-track. We need realignment. Acts 20:24 reminds us: "None of these things move me." Set your face like a stone with no compromise. 2. **Drive on**: Sometimes the best you can do is just "drive on." But "Drive On" does NOT mean repeating the cycle again. It means looking forward. As Proverbs 4:25-26 instructs: "Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Decide carefully where you are going in life. Then you will be on a good, safe path." 3. **Watch your words**: Your words are seeds. (the sower sows the word) Ask yourself: "How should I be speaking about myself? What words am I planting in my own heart and the hearts of others?" 4. **Guard your thoughts**: What should we be letting dominate our thought life? Fill your mind with God's promises. ReFire – ReWire (put LIFE in) (Today’s Verse) Psalm 19:14 says: "So may the words of my mouth, my meditation-thoughts, and every movement of my heart be always pure and pleasing, acceptable before your eyes." 5. **Expect Good Things**: (this is a great example of refiring – rewiring) If you are using your spiritual compass properly, you are always looking for and confessing the Good Things of God over your life and your family. Psalm 84:11 assures us: "For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly." The version of you that's called to impact nations, to lead in your generation, to glorify God boldly, cannot be built on the blueprint of fear, shame, or self-doubt. Eventually, you have to look yourself in the mirror and say, "I've stayed here long enough." Long enough in insecurity. Long enough in procrastination. Long enough in spiritual laziness. long enough in cycles that drain my joy. Not because you feel ready, but because God has already made you new. Use the compass—use the tools God gave you to navigate out of the old and into the new: - Your thoughts - Your words Jesus said, "The person who has will have more, and they will have an abundance." When we align our thoughts and words with God's truth, we position ourselves to receive His abundance. The Posture of Faith So today, I challenge you to reset your spiritual compass. Let the words of your mouth and the meditation of your heart be acceptable in God's sight. Follow His direction, even when the path isn't clear. Follow Jesus’ two commands Keep moving forward in faith, knowing that He is your strength and your redeemer. " Let my words and my thoughts be pleasing to you, LORD, because you are my mighty rock and my protector.” Amen. 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 COMPASS 罗盘 Description An account of the resource Psalm 19:14: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. 诗篇 19:14: 耶和华——我的磐石、我的救赎主啊，愿你喜悦我口中的言语、心中的意念 (page 897) Romans 12:2: Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. 罗马书 12:2: 你们不可追随世界的潮流，要随着思想的不断更新而改变，这样就能明辨上帝的旨意，知道什么是良善、纯全、蒙祂悦纳的。 (page1839) 2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone. The new is here. 哥林多后书 5:17: 若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人，旧事已过，看啊，一切都更新了。(page 1875) Romans 6:11: In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 罗马书 6:11: 这样，你们应当看自己是向罪死了，但向上帝则看自己是活在基督耶稣里 (page 1829) Proverbs 4:25-26: Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Decide carefully where you are going in life. Then you will be on a good, safe path. 箴言 4:25,26: 眼睛要正视前方，双目要向前直看。要铺平脚下的路，使所行之道稳妥。 (page 1038) Psalm 84:11: For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly. 诗篇 84:11: 因为耶和华上帝是太阳，是盾牌；祂赐下恩惠和尊荣，不留下任何好处不赐给行为正直的人 (page 968) 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 08/10/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 美国凤城山坡堂 3739 US 80 PO Box 8513 Columbus, Georgia 31908 Phenix City AL 36870 United States Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Video Language A language of the resource English audio and Chinese subtitles https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e841d03111033cd09483ecd082190420.jpg aaa1587ec30d90cebc03687ab3be13fd https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/765922e5b21b3185d412449e6dc53e9b.mp4 179317969371d2ff8fd62a66798470c9 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 Death = LIFE John 12:24 Have you seen that funny meme going around? "The calendar says 'Tuesday' but it still feels like Monday." Tuesday mornings can sometimes be harder than Monday mornings. Waking up around 4am, not feeling particularly enthused about the new day ahead. I found myself thinking, "I need a new attitude. I need a fresh perspective." But where does that perspective come from? HOW can we hear from GOD unless we take time to be quiet before Him? To "Be Still and Know that HE is GOD"? In those quiet moments, God whispers to our hearts: "This is a new beginning. You didn't expect it today, but here it is." A few weeks ago, I shared something I firmly believe: "We were made for expansion and fuller expression. God wants to take you beyond your current limitations into places of greater impact for His kingdom." I truly believe our DNA comes complete with a desire for expansion and greater expression. As the saying goes, "The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are." Remember when we talked about the power of decision? (definition) But here's the truth—it can be hard to say "Goodbye." Growth often has a component of grief to it. What may feel like a "loss" may really a transformation. What may feel like "death" can really be a "rebirth." For your new life to truly begin, the old life must end. In Romans 6:11, we're instructed to "reckon the old man as dead." This isn't just poetic language. The term "reckon" is an accounting term meaning to consider, account for, or take inventory. It implies a deliberate act of faith— …aligning our beliefs and actions with the truth of our spiritual death to sin and new life in Christ. Jesus expressed this profound truth in John 12:24-25. In The Message translation, it reads: "Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal." Death equals Life. This is the divine paradox at the heart of our faith. “funeral for a friend” You basically need to have a funeral for your old self. That "friend" you're burying may be comfort. It could be called "security." It might be familiar patterns that no longer serve God's purpose for your life. Romans 6:7-8 reminds us: "For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him." Romans 6:11: "So you also should think about yourselves in the same way. Sin has no power over you, as if you were dead. In your new life, you live to serve God, because you belong to Christ Jesus." A seed will just remain a seed unless it is planted. After it is planted, there is a complete transformation. Jesus said it clearly: "Verily, verily I say unto you, unless a grain of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit." Eph 3:19 offers this beautiful prayer: "May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." Or as another translation puts it: "May you be filled through all your being with God himself!" To be filled with one thing requires being emptied of another. Does that make sense? Watchman Nee wrote in The Normal Christian Life: "God never intended for man to live by himself. Man was created with a spirit capable of containing God and depending on God. And until God is everything to man, man will never be what God intended him to be." Think about the tabernacle in the Old Testament. It was a physical structure designed for the Presence of God to dwell among his people. But now, under the New covenant, we do not have a tabernacle made of wood and fabric. We are the tabernacle. As Paul says in 1 Cor 3:16, "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" This is the revolutionary truth that changes everything. As Nee puts it: "You are not a seeker of God. You are a bearer of God. You are not trying to reach the divine presence. You are manifesting the divine presence. You are not searching for life. You are expressing the life that is already within you." Jesus himself said in Luke 17:21: "the Kingdom of God is within you." Faith is not feeling. Faith is accepting what God has said. ( ) ...and God said that “Christ lives in you.” That you are "Complete in Him." That you have received His fullness. Accepting this by faith is to make the transition from seeking to knowing. Romans 6:11 instructs us: "So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus." Remember that ad from that sweatshop shoe company: “Just Do It” Last week, we discussed that your decision must be: "I open my life to the care and control of Christ. I don't know how it's all going to be worked out, but I know it's the right thing to do. So I'm just going to do it." Hebrews 11:8 reminds us: "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." Jesus told his disciples in John 16:7: "I assure you that it is a good thing for you that I should go away. For if I did not go, the divine helper would not come to you. But if I go, then I will send him to you." The disciples didn't want Jesus to leave—can you imagine how that felt? —even though He told them it was necessary so that the next part of the church could really begin. Charlie Kirk: "Jesus died so we can live." And Jesus himself told us: "I tell you this: A seed of wheat continues to be only a single seed unless it falls into the ground. It must fall into the ground and then it must die. If it dies like that, it will grow to give a lot of seeds." Gal 2:20 captures this beautiful exchange: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Death = Life Make room in your life for the arrival of new life. Ask yourself: “What must I die to in order to obtain the abundant, purposeful life God has prepared for me?” If comfort is your aim, then change will always be just beyond your reach. vs 25: “ …the one who detaches his life from this world and abandons himself to me, will find true life and enjoy it forever!” Jesus: “Let me make this clear: A single grain of wheat will never be more than a single grain of wheat unless it drops into the ground and dies. Because then it sprouts and produces a great harvest of wheat—all because one grain died.” We must "reckon the old man as dead." You already know what that old man looks like— …but do you have a revelation of what the new man (who you are in Christ) should look like? 1 Tim 6:12 tells us to “fight the good fight of faith” Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses. (just yesterday) “it’s better to die on your feet than to live on your knees.” We were talking at work the other day about how fast college football season goes. With less than four months left in 2025, what can we do to ensure this season of your life becomes the very best part of the year? Proverbs 3:6 guides us: "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." ? Do you ever feel overwhelmed by all the things you need to do? Find in your heart one single step of faith that you know you need to take in your life. Focus on that one thing — not the whole world. One baby step is worth much more than just “thinking” about a dozen things we could/should be doing. Give it (now) to God without fear or hesitation. Jesus said: A single grain of wheat will never be more than a single grain of wheat unless it drops into the ground and dies. Because then it sprouts and produces a great harvest of wheat—all because one grain died. fear has no rightful place in your future you As Spurgeon wisely noted: "The fear of God is the death of every other fear," - and "He who fears God has nothing else to fear." Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives! 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 DEATH = LIFE 死亡=生命 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/21/2025 Description An account of the resource John 12:24 – “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” 約翰福音 12:24: 我实话告诉你们，如果一颗麦粒没有落在地里死去，它依然是一粒种子，但是，一旦它死了，它就会结出许多麦粒 (page 1744) Romans 6:11: So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. 羅馬書 6:11: 同样，你们应该明白自己已死于罪的势力，并且通过耶稣基督为上帝而活着。 (page 1829) Gal 2:20: My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 加拉太书 2:20: 我已经与基督一同被钉在十字架上，现在活着的不再是我，而是基督活在我里面。我现在是靠信上帝的儿子而活着，祂爱我，为我舍命。(page 1887) 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) Col 2:9,10: For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. 歌罗西书 2:9,10 -因为上帝完全的神性有形有体地蕴藏在基督里，你们在基督里得到了丰盛的生命。祂是一切执政者和掌权者的元首。(page 1910) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States