2 10 102 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/89498b0fb87ee9e906b72dec1bf8653a.jpg 63a086c2d6461e58118c3087b90aa5a2 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c7a193c0a2674e45410e789eadfa1423.mp4 29fbc350cb0438253cc0e79927a92a60 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 2026 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 CODE IV: The Greatest Matthew 23:11,12 We live in the age of the “Adult Temper Tantrum…” (how did we get here?) “There must be a better way!” Who better than Jesus to guide us to a better way of navigating through this life… Jesus offered an entirely different Code for living Matthew 23:11,12: "The greatest among you will be the one who always serves others from the heart. Remember this: If you have a lofty opinion of yourself and seek to be honored, you will be humbled. But if you have a modest opinion of yourself and choose to humble yourself, you will be honored." Life (should be) about contribution Ask: “What is my gift?” The gift you carry isn’t just for you. The gift God gave you was never intended to stop with you. Do you see yourself as unable to serve – to make a contribution to others? I will say this with love: Thinking we are limited is actually true conceit. If we accomplish something and it is all done with our own abilities, then who gets the glory? the credit? the praise? (selah) John 15:8: When your lives bear abundant fruit, you demonstrate that you are my mature disciples who glorify my Father! It isn’t about YOU – it is about the Gift. 2 Cor 4:7: “We have this treasure…” “We are like common clay jars that carry this glorious treasure within, so that this immeasurable power will be seen as God's, not ours.” The treasure isn't the jar. It is the gift gets the attention. The Giver gets the glory. Paul uses this analogy to highlight a core message. The power to transform and save belongs entirely to God, not to human strength or cleverness. When we go through difficulties or weaknesses, God's power shines through our frail humanity to make it clear where the strength is truly coming from. Joshua 1:9: “Have boldness to share your gift…” Jesus said to the Jewish leaders, John 8:47: If you really knew God, you would listen, receive, and respond with faith to his words. The Secret of Living is Giving Every culture has a code—a way of defining what success looks like. In our culture, greatness is often measured by followers, fame, influence, possessions, or power. But Jesus completely rewrites the code. In God's Kingdom, the greatest person in the room isn't the one being served. It's the one serving. The Greatest opportunity is TODAY. NOW. Take ALL you have learned, experienced – and yes, even all you have regretted, and use it to build your legacy. Ed Mylett: YOU are now most qualified to help the person or people that You used to be. Your failures become valuable the moment they become someone else's instruction. Your scars become someone's survival guide. Your perceived liability can be transformed into your greatest asset. ASK: “What can I give?” “What could I give?” “What do I have to give?” Discovering your (maybe currently) hidden gift will totally revolutionize your life. “Let YOUR LIGHT so SHINE…” (good works) What have you survived? What have you learned? What mistake taught you something valuable? What prayer did God answer? What gift have you buried? Who needs what only you can give? 1 Corinthians 10:11: All these things happened to them as examples—as object lessons to us —to warn us against doing the same things; they were written down so that we could read about them and learn from them. John Maxwell has a new book entitled: How to Get a Return on Failure He asks: What would change if you stopped seeing failure as something to avoid and started using it as something to build from? What have we learned in life that needs to be shared with others? Some lessons are hard – but they are still lessons. (the Bible is full of these lessons) Our learning should be used to bless others. Honestly: Are there any success stories that don’t include set-backs and adversity? ( ) I mean… have you never seen a Rocky movie? Karate Kid? I recently revisited Og Mandino’s classic: “A Better Way to Live” Og Mandino (20th century writer) went from being a homeless, suicidal alcoholic to one of the world's best-selling inspirational authors. After serving as a World War II bomber pilot, he struggled to find work, leading to severe depression, bad life choices, and the loss of his family. Hitting rock bottom, he wandered into a library, read self-help books, and rebuilt his life. His book, “A Better Way to Live”, not only shares his testimony of personal recovery and transformation, but also includes 17 Principles for living a better life. Principle # 3 says, “Whenever you make a mistake or get knocked down by life, don't look back at it too long. Mistakes are life's way of teaching you. Your capacity for occasional blunders is inseparable from your capacity to reach your goals. No one wins them all, and your failures, when they happen, are just part of your growth. Shake off your blunders.” It’s all about reframing the setbacks to decide how you can use these things to bless others. "The greatest among you will be the one who always serves others from the heart.” Anyone can serve if they have the desire to. You are not the hero because you conquered something. You are the hero because you came back with something worth giving. Prov 24:16: …for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again What propels us to get back up? I believe it is the CODE at work in our hearts, causing us to obey Jesus commands What are those commands? Matthew 22:37-40: Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Tony Robbins: "Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.” "It is not what we get - but who we become, what we contribute... that gives meaning to our lives." Matthew 23:11-12: The greatest among you shall be your servant.  Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. We sometimes learn hard lessons If we can humble ourselves and accept the lesson that comes with the mistakes, we can use that to make not only our own life, but the lives of others better for it having happened. Let your test become your testimony. Let GOD put His “Super” on your “natural” Romans 8:10: "Now Christ lives his life in you! And even though your body may be dead because of the effects of sin, his life-giving Spirit imparts life to you because you are fully accepted by God." It’s time to pick ourselves up – or rather, let Christ pick us up, and get back into the game. It’s time to move on - to “drive on” – to look forward instead of looking back. Change is never a matter of ability. It's always a matter of strong enough reasons. “Christ lives his life in you” The world says, "Hide your failures." Jesus says, "Use them." The world says, "Become important." Jesus says, "Become a servant." Because the greatest people are never remembered for what they accumulated. They're remembered for what they gave. One day... our money (or lack of it) won't matter. Our titles won't matter. Our possessions won't matter. Only what we invested in people. Only what we gave away. Only what Christ was able to do through us. John 12:25 "The person who loves his life and pampers himself will miss true life! But the one who detaches his life from this world and abandons himself to me, will find true life and enjoy it forever!" "The greatest among you will be the one who always serves others from the heart.” Christ lives His life in you. The treasure is already there. Your story—your victories, your failures, your lessons, your faith—can become someone else's encouragement. We so often underestimate our potential to give – to contribute – to serve So don't ask, 'How can I become greater?' Ask, 'How can I serve more faithfully?' Because according to Jesus, the greatest among you will be the servant… the one who serves from the heart. That is the Code. If you feel stuck - like you are missing something - and you’re exhausted from trying. The Lord is saying to you, “Look higher than you are looking! Why are trying to walk according to man’s ways and methods? Why are you trying to be provider? But if you SEEK ME, ALL THESE THINGS shall be added.” Let's pray together. Father, thank You for Jesus, who showed us that true greatness is found not in being served, but in serving. Forgive us for the times we've chased applause instead of purpose, for the times we've hidden our failures instead of letting You use them. Take our stories - the victories and the wounds, the lessons learned the hard way - and use them to encourage someone who needs exactly what we've been through. Remind us daily that the treasure of Christ already lives in us, and that we don't need to become greater; we simply need to serve more faithfully. Give us courage to live out this Code - to love You with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves - starting today, starting now. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who served us first. 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 Code IV - The Greatest 生命密码4 - 最伟大的人 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/26/2026 Description An account of the resource Matthew 23:11-12 (NIV) The greatest among you will be the one who always serves others from the heart. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 马太福音 23:11-12 (CUVS) 你们中间谁为大，谁就要作你们的用人。 凡自高的，必降为卑；凡自卑的，必升为高。 John 15:8 (NIV) When your lives bear much fruit, you show that you are my disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. 约翰福音 15:8 (CUVS) 你们多结果子，我父就因此得荣耀，你们也就是我的门徒了。 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NIV) We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 哥林多后书 4:7 (CUVS) 我们有这宝贝放在瓦器里，要显明这莫大的能力是出于神，不是出于我们。 Proverbs 24:16 (NIV) for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again. 箴言 24:16 (CUVS) 因为义人虽七次跌倒，仍必兴起。 Romans 8:10 (NIV) But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. 罗马书 8:10 (CUVS) 然而基督若在你们心里，身体就因罪而死，心灵却因义而活。 John 12:25 (NIV) Whoever loves their life will lose it, while whoever hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 约翰福音 12:25 (CUVS) 爱惜自己生命的，就失丧生命； 在这世上恨恶自己生命的，就要保守生命到永生。 Matthew 22:37-40 (NIV) Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two. 马太福音 22:37-40 (CUVS) 你要尽心、尽性、尽意爱主——你的神。 这是诫命中的第一，且是最大的。 其次也相仿，就是要爱人如己。 这两条诫命是律法和先知一切道理的总纲。 Joshua 1:9 (NIV) Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. 约书亚记 1:9 (CUVS) 我岂没有吩咐你吗？你当刚强壮胆！ 不要惧怕，也不要惊惶；因为你无论往哪里去，耶和华——你的神必与你同在。 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/2ad786622be9d5d39a83be810f2ff99d.jpg 2f4fa633030bd5d19784fd1a180268c0 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c202baa47ad493614eac12ef238c243a.mp4 7ccb591f1c24ae8afeb5ac168fb468a2 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 2026 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 CODE III: KNOW HIM 2 Thess 3:16 Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon Apparently every actor in Hollywood can be connected to Kevin Bacon in six steps or less. The theory says every person on earth can be connected to every other person through six relationships. Maybe that's true. According to the theory, somewhere between me and the President of the United States there are only six introductions. But I still doubt he's coming to Waffle House with me after church. I know about him. I've travelled twice just to see him speak. But he doesn't know me... ...and I don't really know him. I know about him. In the same way… People can have a lot of information about Jesus …they may even go to church. They can know “about” GOD without really knowing Him. That is not a mistake we want to carry through our lives. Jesus said in Matt 7:22,23: “On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ “I never knew you” Last Sunday we celebrated that Jesus knows your name. Today the question changes. Do you know Him? There are signs and bumper stickers that say, “No Jesus (n-o) No Peace. Know Jesus , Know peace.” Today’s scripture reads: "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you". (AMP) Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace at all times and in every way [that peace and spiritual well-being that comes to those who walk with Him, regardless of life’s circumstances]. The Lord be with you all. Notice something. Paul doesn't tell us to manufacture peace. He points us to the Lord of Peace. And notice when He gives it. At all times. In every way. That means peace isn't reserved just for the easy seasons. May the Lord himself, who is our source of peace, give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all. We want that peace (of course we do,) but how do we get this peace and find its comfort and strength “in all times and in every way?” Eph 2:14: For He Himself is our peace We must abide… we must be in a real relationship with our Creator Eph 2:13: “ …Although you were once distant and far away from God, now you have been brought delightfully close to him through the sacred blood of Jesus—you have actually been united to Christ!” “you have actually been united to Christ!” – “through the sacred blood of Jesus” This is when The CODE starts its work in our hearts. CODE: Hebrews 8:1: 'I will put My laws in their minds and write them on their hearts.' CODE (Part Two) we recognized that Jesus knows our name. He came to seek and save that which was lost (you and me) Now CODE III is about you and I coming to know Him. Relationship. We have all heard that question, “Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?” Jesus said we must abide in Him Jesus used a beautiful word. He said, "Abide." It means remain. Stay. Live. Make your home in Me. Christianity was never meant to be occasional visits with Jesus. It was meant to be a life lived in Him. Religion asks, "What must I do?" Relationship asks, "Will you walk with Me?" Knowing about Jesus is not the same as knowing Jesus. There are many ways we can develop our relationship to a much great level. Prayer. Reading the Word. …and the Lord’s Supper Today is Holy Communion We are told we must “discern the Body” This is both The Body of Christ as in the physical body Jesus gave up for our healing and restoration, and also as the Body of Christ where we share in one loaf together. 1 Cor 10:17: Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. "Discerning the body" is a theological phrase from 1 Corinthians 11:29 regarding the Lord's Supper (Communion). It means recognizing the profound significance of Christ’s sacrifice and (also) valuing the unity of the church” John 6:56: "He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him" Wommack: “ …was speaking of the spiritual man. Just as the physical man receives life from the food he eats, so the spiritual man receives life as he partakes of Jesus, the life of men (Jn. 1:4; 10:10; 14:6) or the ‘Bread of Life.’ Just as the life of a root is found in the soil, or a branch in the vine, or a fish in the sea, so the believer’s true life is found to be in union with Christ.” 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.” John 6:57: “The Father of life sent me, and he is my life. In the same way, the one who feeds upon me, I will become his life.” Eph 3:19: “ … to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” This is beyond our intellect. It is experiential. It comes through relationship This is what we need to be filled with today. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as knowing Jesus. John 15:9: I have loved you, just as the Father has loved Me; abide in My love, continue in His love with Me. For the past few minutes we've been asking one question: "Do you know Him?" Not do you know about Him... "Do you know Him?" Today Jesus doesn't simply invite us to think about Him. He invites us to come to His table. The table has never been about remembering a distant Savior. It is about meeting a living Savior. Some of us came carrying fear. Some came carrying guilt. Some came carrying disappointment... bitterness. Some came carrying questions. But none of us should have to leave carrying those same burdens. The CODE God wants to write on your heart isn't merely information. It is relationship. He knows your name... and today He invites you to know His heart. So here's what that looks like for you, right now. If you've never truly known Him — if today you realize you've only known about Him — this table can be where that changes. This can be the moment you move from information to relationship, from a name you've heard to a Savior you know. And if you do know Him, but life has pulled you away — if you've drifted, grown cold, or wandered — this table is where you come home. Not because you've earned your way back, but because He's been waiting at the table the whole time. Whichever describes you, don't leave here the same way you came in. Tell Him. Whatever you're carrying — name it to Him now, in your heart. Then come to the table. "Let us break bread together on our knees." Communion is not a reward for people who have lived a perfect week. It's a gift for people who know they need Jesus. So don't wait until you feel ready. Come as you are — and come to know Him. Phil 3:10 …that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection 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 Code III: Know Him 生命密码3: 认识祂 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/19/2026 Description An account of the resource 1.MATTHEW 7:22-23 "On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'" 马太福音 7:22-23 “到那日，必有许多人对我说：‘主啊，主啊，我们不是奉祢的名传道，奉祢的名赶鬼，奉祢的名行许多异能吗？’我就明明地告诉他们：‘我从未认识你们；你们这些作恶的人，离开我去吧！’” 2.2 THESSALONIANS 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. 帖撒罗尼迦后书 3:16 愿赐平安的主随时随地赐平安给你们。愿主与你们众人同在。 3.EPHESIANS 2:13-14 Although you were once distant and far away from God, now you have been brought delightfully close to him through the sacred blood of Jesus—you have actually been united to Christ! For He Himself is our peace. 以弗所书 2:13-14 你们从前远离神，与神为敌，如今却因基督耶稣的宝血，已经得亲近了，你们原本是与基督隔绝的，如今却与祂联合；因为基督祂自己就是我们的平安。 4.JOHN 6:56 He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. 约翰福音 6:56 吃我肉、喝我血的人，就住在我里面，我也住在他里面。 5.1 CORINTHIANS 10:17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. 哥林多前书 10:17 我们虽多，仍是一个饼，一个身体；因为我们都是分受这一个饼。 6.JOHN 15:9 I have loved you, just as the Father has loved Me; abide in My love. 约翰福音 15:9 我爱你们，正如父爱我一样；你们要常在我的爱里。 7.EPHESIANS 3:19 …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 并且知道基督的爱是何等长阔高深，能以充满你们，使你们充满神一切的丰盛。 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/0bed5364a9261bed4b725d434985423b.jpg a1cd713df30a5820d34a4955d997b19d https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8152babbf9e75dd732425297f6f04c5b.mp4 b1b9d1047c52f455ed13ee1f0812fcd4 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/3d5486b5aa5517012c8d6d1b00970238.png 458f687aa89e1b4647665ee8f23709c5 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 2026 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 CODE – Week Two – KNOWN 认识 Luke 19:5,9,10 Last week I did something that felt almost impossible. I deleted Instagram off my phone. For some of you, that might sound like no big deal. But for me... my thumb still finds that empty spot on my home screen out of habit. I'll go to check something — anything — and just stare at the blank space where the app used to be. That's how much of a grip it had on me. Because it wasn't just stealing my time. It was quietly planting ideas and images in my mind that I never asked for — a steady hum of comparison, distraction, and noise I didn't even realize I was carrying around with me all day. Now, I got some good productivity tips and health info along the way, I'll admit that. But mixed in with all of it was a constant stream of bad news and disturbing glimpses of everything wrong with this current age we live in. And it left me with a question I couldn't shake. Last week we asked, "Who wrote the code you're living by?" This week, it's this: Whose voice has our attention? What we focus on expands. What we feed our hearts determines what we start to see in the world around us. God wants to direct our steps — but we have to be sensitive enough to hear His voice. He is seeking us today.Before we can fully comprehend God’s CODE, we must first understand God's Heart. He sees us completely—our failures and wanderings—yet responds with healing, comfort, and grace. The Code is not God's way of keeping you out; it's God's way of bringing you home. Remember last week we said, GOD wants the best for our lives. ( ) Romans 8:31, 32: So, what does all this mean? If God has determined to stand with us, tell me, who then could ever stand against us? For God has proved his love by giving us his greatest treasure, the gift of his Son. And since God freely offered him up as the sacrifice for us all, he certainly won’t withhold from us anything else he has to give. It’s all about growing in our understanding and experience of the heart of Our Father Last week we asked, 'Who wrote the code you're living by?' This week we meet a man whose entire life had been written by another code. Success. Wealth. Status. Power. He climbed a tree thinking he was looking for Jesus... ...only to discover Jesus had been looking for him all along. “Wee Little Man” Luke 19:1-10 Zaccheus was NOT a popular man in the community The lesson is – even the little (rejected) person matters to God. (verse 3) The crowd overlooked him... Jesus didn't. “People want to be seen” GOD sees you where you are. (verse 5) Jesus stopped beneath the tree. He didn't say, 'Hey, tax collector...' He didn't say, 'Hey, sinner...' He didn't say, 'Hey, you...' He said, 'Zacchaeus.' Week Two: The One who rewrites your code already knows your name. Before Zacchaeus ever came down from the tree... before he gave anything back... before his life changed... before he made things right... Jesus called him by name. The world says... 'Prove your worth, and then you'll matter.' Jesus says... 'You matter, and that's why I've come for you.'" "You're valuable because I know your name." When Jesus says, "Zacchaeus," He isn't just identifying him. He's inviting him. The name becomes an invitation. When Jesus walked into a room, prostitutes felt safe enough to cry at his feet, while religious leaders plotted his death. That's not normal love. That's dangerous love. We've heard it a thousand times. “Jesus loves you.” But what does that actually mean? Because if we're honest, those three words have become so familiar that they've seemingly lost their impact on so many. HERE is the Love of Christ: Jesus didn't love people from a distance. He touched the untouchable. (even the tax collector) vs 5: When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.”  WHY? vs 9: Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house…” An encounter with the true Jesus changes everything. (verse 9) He gave him dignity before he gave him direction. He let him know he was KNOWN. Joseph Prince: “In Luke 19:2–10, where you find Jesus meeting and ministering to Zacchaeus, notice that not a single commandment was given. Yet when the love and grace of our Lord Jesus touched his heart, the once-covetous tax collector wanted to give half of his wealth to the poor and repay fourfold every person he had stolen from. The love of money died when the love of Jesus came. This is what happens to people who encounter the Lord Jesus and His grace.” Why does this change us? “Perfect love drives out fear.” We need an “encounter with the Lord Jesus and His grace.” We need to have a revelation of the Love Jesus has for us today Here's what we sometimes miss: Jesus' love is so powerful... that it confronts the lies we've believed about ourselves. Jesus didn't simply come to forgive your past. He came to interrupt the code you've been living by. Jesus gave Zacchaeus dignity before he gave him direction. He let him know he was KNOWN. Our faith in the true love of the true Jesus – our true savior – becomes the CODE that is the antidote to this form of miserable existence: Romans 5:1: 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. Romans 5:1 (AMP) 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 (the Messiah, the Anointed). To understand The CODE we need a true revelation of the Love of Christ within our hearts. God sees you today. You are KNOWN. Psalm 33:18: Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love… God sees you today. God hears you today. You are KNOWN. Psalm 34:4 (David) “Listen to my testimony: I cried to God in my distress and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears!” Maybe you've spent years trying to prove your value. Maybe you've climbed your own tree. Maybe you've hidden behind success... or failure... or religion... or shame... Today... Jesus stops. Looks up. Calls your name. Then... “You're valuable... because I know your name.” Remember you are known Isaiah 43:1: Do not be afraid, I have rescued you to belong to me. I have called you by your name, so now you are mine. Zacchaeus' code said: You're valuable because of what you possess. Jesus rewrote the code: You're valuable because I know your name. “The Son of Man has come to seek out and to give life to those who are lost.” The Son of Man has come to seek... ...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 CODE – Week Two – KNOWN 生命密码2 – 认识 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/12/2026 Description An account of the resource ROMANS 8:31-32 If God has determined to stand with us, who then could ever stand against us? For God has proved his love by giving us his greatest treasure, the gift of his Son. And since God freely offered him up as the sacrifice for us all, he certainly won’t withhold from us anything else he has to give. 罗马书 8:31-32 既是这样，还有什么说的呢？神若帮助我们，谁能敌挡我们呢？神既不惜为我们舍了自己的儿子，岂不也把万事和他一同白白地赐给我们吗？ LUKE 19:9-10 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” 路加福音 19:9-10 耶稣说：“今天救恩临到了这家，因为他也是亚伯拉罕的子孙。人子来，为要寻找、拯救失丧的人。” ROMANS 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 罗马书 5:1 我们既因信称义，就藉着我们的主耶稣基督得与神相和。 ROMANS 5:5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. 罗马书 5:5 盼望不至于羞耻，因为神的爱藉着所赐给我们的圣灵，已经浇灌在我们心里。 ISAIAH 43:1 Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name, you are mine. 以赛亚书 43:1 你不要害怕，因为我救赎了你；我曾提你的名召你，你是属我的。 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/68532afad980da6505f652012def3f78.png fe40684852688dbf7fc95a4c4ac5ffa5 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/dac6630919f3195af99b3ae0a052bcfe.mp4 a675119ab9bb98b0a4afabd1cd0705be 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 2026 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 Code - Week One: Who Wrote the Code You're Living By? Romans 12:1-2 Earlier this week I woke up with one simple image in my mind – - one word inside a simple rectangular frame: CODE. For just a moment, think about the hundreds of decisions you will make this week. Every decision flows from something deeper. Every decision flows from a code. code: a set of conventions governing behavior or activity in a particular sphere. a set of principles a set of standards a set of customs ethics, morality, convention, accepted behavior a set of rules and standards adhered to by a society, class, or individual. Whether we realize it or not, each one of us lives by a code. The question has never been, 'Do I have a code?' The question is: "Who wrote the code I’m living by?" Every day, someone - or something - is discipling you. Whatever has your attention shapes your thinking. Whatever shapes your thinking shapes your heart. …And the code that governs your heart will eventually shape every area of your life. Francis Schaeffer's book How Should We Then Live? The Rise and Decline of Western Thought and Culture (1976) argues that when society abandons biblical absolutes, it falls into moral chaos and authoritarianism. (I could show videos) His writings explore the shift from a God-centered worldview to secular humanism. "Most people catch their presuppositions from their family and surrounding society, the way that a child catches the measles. But people with understanding realize that their presuppositions should be chosen after a careful consideration of which worldview is true." Paul warned us of this danger long before Schaeffer wrote it down. Colossians 2:8 says, "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ." We (you and I) have a responsibility to guard our gates 2 Cor 10:5, Paul calls us to take "captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." Who - or what - has your regular attention? Romans 12:1,2 (read) Paul does not begin with behavior. He begins with transformation. That means, something was one way, and now it needs to become something else. A change is required. God desires renewed minds and transformed hearts. This same truth echoes in Ephesians 4:22-24, where Paul urges us to "put off your old self... to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." And in 2 Corinthians 5:17: "If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" I know many of these verses may sound all-too familiar to some of you, but don’t let this slip past you… Before we talk about God's Code, we must understand God's HEART. Isaiah 57:18 declares: 'I have seen their ways... but I will heal them; I will lead them and restore comfort...' God sees us completely, just as we are, yet He still responds with grace. Psalm 103:8-10 reminds us: "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love... he does not treat us as our sins deserve." Romans 5:8 tells us the depth of that grace: "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The Code is not God's way of keeping you out. It's God's way of bringing you home. ( ) Hebrews 8:10 reveals God's ultimate purpose: 'I will put My laws in their minds and write them on their hearts.' “ …this verse points out the difference between a covenant based on external, legalistic rules and one based on internal, personal experience with God. This drive for obedience, from the inside out, is the work of the Holy Spirit in those who are saved.” God says, “I will put my laws into their thoughts. I will write my laws deep inside them. I will be their God and they will be my people.” This New Testament promise is rooted in Old Testament prophecies, particularly Jeremiah 31:33, which foretold a time when God would establish a new relationship with His people. Jeremiah prophetically declares God’s Word: “But this is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel after those days,” says the Lord. “I will put my instructions deep within them, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. God is not merely giving us better information. He is giving us a new heart. He isn't merely changing our behavior. He is changing our desires. Ezekiel 36:26: "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." God never intended His Word to remain merely in our hands. His desire has always been to write it upon our hearts. (a Divine CODE for living) Jesus said He came that we might have “Life and have it more abundantly.” Eventually, the CODE should become our identity. (“I don’t smoke”) GOD wants the best for our lives. ( ) Ed Mylett, 'I want my friends to love me, but I don't want them to always accept me.' People who care about you also want the best for you. They won’t let you drop off a cliff just because they don’t want to offend you. This is GOD’s Heart toward us. Real love desires to see transformation. Elevation. God loves us exactly where He finds us, but He loves us far too much to leave us there. There must be a change – and it starts with a renewed mind and a transformed heart. Are we willing to let that happen – to do our part in this radical reformation? This week, before you scroll, before you react, before you speak, ask: “Who is writing the code I am following today?” Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Jesus (“the Word made flesh”) did not merely teach the Way. He is the Way. He did not merely speak the Truth. He is the Truth. He did not merely point us toward Life. He is the Life. In John 14:6, Jesus says it plainly: "I Am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." Remember this: The Code is not God's way of keeping you out. It's God's way of bringing you home. Francis Schaeffer : "Here is a simple but profound truth: If there are no absolutes by which to judge society, the society is absolute. Society is left with one man or an elite filling the vacuum left by the loss of the Christian consensus which originally gave us form and freedom." “without a vision, the people perish” “When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild.”  You’ve probably heard that expression: “bring something up to code” Like renovate or update an old building in line with the latest building regulations. "the wiring has to be brought up to code" To recognize the need to follow God's Code, we must understand God's HEART. The CODE is more than just a word or a cool symbol… It represents the God who says, "I have seen your ways..." "...I will heal you..." "...I will lead you..." "...I will restore you..." "...I will write My law upon your heart." Jesus told us where that absolute truth is found. In John 17:17 He prays, "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth." And in John 8:32, He promises: "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Let's us pray Father, thank You for Your Word, which is truth, and for Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life Thank You that You do not just call us to try harder - You promise to write Your law on our hearts and give us a new heart, a heart of flesh Lord, search us and know our hearts Show us where we have been living by a code we did not choose - a code written by culture, by comparison, by fear, or by old wounds. Forgive us for the times we conformed to the pattern of this world instead of being transformed by the renewing of our minds Thank You that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us You do not condemn us - You heal us, lead us, and restore us Because Your compassion never fails, help us receive Your grace today So as we go from this place, let Your word be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path Set us free with Your truth and write Your Code - Your law of love - deeply into our hearts. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Way, our Truth, and our Life. 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 The Code - Week One: Who Wrote the Code You're Living By? 生命密码1：谁在编写你所遵循的密码？ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/04/2026 Description An account of the resource Romans 12:1-2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 罗马书 12:1-2 所以，弟兄们，我以神的慈悲劝你们，将身体献上，当作活祭，是圣洁的，是神所喜悦的；你们如此事奉，乃是理所当然的。不要效法这个世界，只要心意更新而变化，叫你们察验何为神的善良、纯全、可喜悦的旨意。 Hebrews 8:10 For this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 希伯来书 8:10 因为我要与以色列家立的约乃是这样：我要将我的律法放在他们里面，写在他们心上；我要作他们的神，他们要作我的子民。 2 Corinthians 10:5 We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 哥林多后书 10:5 我们争战的兵器本不是属血气的，乃是在神面前有能力，可以攻破坚固的营垒，将各样的计谋，各样拦阻人认识神的那些自高之事，一概攻破了，又将人所有的心意夺回，使他们都顺服基督。 John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” 约翰福音 14:6 耶稣说：我就是道路、真理、生命；若不借着我，没有人能到父那里去。 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 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 2026 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 Sustaining Grace 2026 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." Good morning! Some of you came here today carrying something very heavy. Perhaps it's your health. Maybe it's someone you love. …or uncertainty about tomorrow. Some of you are waiting for answers. Some are praying for healing. Some are simply trying to make it through another day. I want you to know something before we go any further: This message is not meant to minimize your struggle. Your pain is real. Your questions are real. Your tears are real. But I also believe that God's promises are real. Today I simply want to remind you that whatever you are carrying today, you do not have to carry it alone. Our Scripture, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." Today I want to talk with you about Sustaining Grace. We often say,"God is good all the time." And we do believe that. Psalm 136 tells us, "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His mercy endures forever." Sometimes those words are easy to say. Other days... they require real faith. Because life isn't always easy. Yet God's goodness is not determined by our circumstances. His goodness never changes. His grace never runs out. His faithfulness never fails. One of the greatest discoveries we can make as Christians is this: God never promised we would never face difficulties. (“In the world…”) He promised that His grace would always be enough. Grace is more than God's forgiveness. Grace is His active presence in our lives. It is His strength when ours is gone. It is His peace when anxiety begins to rise. It is His stillness in the middle of the storm. It is His healing work within us. Grace is God giving us exactly what we need for this moment. “For my weakness becomes a portal to God’s power." Sometimes we pray as though we are trying to convince God to help us. Isaiah reminds us, "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." Think about that. Before you ever whispered your prayer... God already knew. Before your first tear... He saw it. Before your first fearful thought... He was already present. Faith is not persuading God to become good. Faith is learning to trust that He already is. One question has helped me tremendously. Instead of asking, "How am I ever going to get through this?" Ask, "How would I think, live, and respond if I truly believed God was already at work?" That changes everything. Fear focuses on what is missing. Faith focuses on the God who is present. Anxiety keeps looking at the storm. "What's wrong is always available, and so is what's right. Your focus determines your reality.” Faith gently turns our eyes back toward Jesus. Divine Grace becomes the bridge that carries us into faith. Romans tells us, "We know that all things work together for good to those who love God." Notice what Paul does not say. He doesn't say that all things are good. Some things are heartbreaking. Some things are painful. Some things make no sense. But God has the remarkable ability to take what the enemy intended for harm and transform it for His glory. That's why we can honestly pray, "Lord, I don't understand everything I'm facing right now. But I trust You. And I'm looking forward to seeing how You will bring good from this." Charles Wesley. During one season of his life he suffered terribly with pleurisy. Every breath brought pain. His suffering became so overwhelming that he began questioning everything. Then one day, while reading God's Word, something changed. Hope returned. His heart was renewed. Out of that difficult season came one of the greatest hymns ever written: "O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing." Imagine that. Every painful breath eventually became another song of praise. Sometimes our greatest testimonies are born during our greatest struggles. Most of us know the story called Footprints in the Sand. The man noticed that during the hardest seasons of his life there was only one set of footprints. He asked the Lord, "Why did You leave me?" Jesus replied, "I didn't leave you. Those were the times I carried you." That is sustaining grace. Sometimes God’s greatest miracle is giving us strength we never knew we had because He is carrying us every step of the way. John Newton - the man who penned words that Christians have sung for generations “Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; 'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home.” understood this. After losing his beloved wife, he wrote these remarkable words: "He can give strength according to our day. He can increase our strength as our trials increase." What carried him? Grace. What carried Charles Wesley? Grace. What carries us today? Grace. Sometimes we think healing only refers to the body. But God desires to heal every part of us. Our hearts. Our minds. Our relationships. Our fears.Our hope. James reminds us that God's saving work and His healing work go hand in hand. “The prayer of faith shall save him that is sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him. God's sustaining grace reaches every part of our lives. Jesus said, "You search the Scriptures because you think they give you life... yet they all point to Me." Ultimately our hope is not found in having every answer. Our hope is found in the One who walks with us. It's not so much the "How." It's the "Who." Jesus Christ. The One who never leaves us. The One who never forsakes us. The One whose grace is sufficient. Maybe today you've been trying to carry something that was never meant to rest on your shoulders. God is inviting you today to release it into His hands. Peter writes, "Cast all your cares upon Him because He cares for you." Paul says, "Be anxious for nothing." The Psalmist says, "Be still, and know that I am God." Notice the invitation. Not strive. Not control. Not panic. Be still. Trust. Receive. Sometimes the strongest thing we can do is simply let God be God. My church family, God's Word never tells us to deny our struggles. It tells us to bring them to Him. Weakness is not failure. Weakness becomes the very place where God's strength shines most brightly. “My power is made perfect in weakness." When we finally stop pretending we have everything under control... we discover that God has had everything under control all along. So let me leave you with this. You don't have to carry tomorrow today. God's grace isn't given a month in advance. It arrives exactly when you need it. One day at a time. One moment at a time. One prayer at a time. His sustaining grace will carry you farther than your own strength ever could. Today... whatever burden you've been carrying... whatever fear has been weighing on your heart... whatever uncertainty has been keeping you awake... bring it to Jesus. His grace is sufficient. His peace is available. His strength never fails. And His sustaining grace will never let you go. Amen. Closing Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding us today that Your grace truly is sufficient. When we become weary, strengthen us. When fear begins to rise, fill us with Your peace. When we cannot see the way ahead, help us trust the One who already knows the way. Teach us to release our burdens into Your loving hands. Heal every wounded heart, renew every weary spirit, and surround each person here with Your comforting presence. Help us leave this place walking not in fear, but in faith—confident that Your sustaining grace will meet us every step of the journey. We ask all of this in the precious name of Jesus. 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 Sustaining Grace 2026 持久够用的恩典 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/0558348f764fb2ac59572215797a3efa.jpg 9477b70f965111b98d81fe26c55eea8d https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/2d51ee7cf4010f457e3ddd75ea047a66.png 1760d95a70f22256b0b6a09b8eaf2830 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 2026 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 FIX YOUR THOUGHTS Romans 15:13 When you have something of value to share, you are obliged to share it. Not everyone will receive it, but that is not your responsibility. I have been studying and hopefully applying a lot of health and wellness information. How I wish I could have learned some of these things much earlier in life. I have learned a great deal throughout this personal healing journey, while recognizing that I still have much more to learn. Even as I learned the importance of healthy eating, exercise, controlled breathing, rest, and self-care, for me, the biggest challenge I faced was learning how to let go. Learning how to shut down. Learning how to allow my system to unwind. I've basically had to work on resetting my nervous system. (I only tell you these things because maybe some of you need this same information) The journey toward healing often begins with something very simple: Like: Learning to Slow Down. Today I want to share something that is both scriptural and scientific. The Word of God does not need science to agree with it. But when science agrees with Scripture, it may further validate things we already know are true. The Bible tells us: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Philippians 4:8) Neuroscience tells us that what we consistently focus on influences the chemicals that our brains produce. Thoughts accompanied by emotion create corresponding responses throughout the body. God knew this long before neuroscience existed. That is why Scripture repeatedly calls us to direct our attention toward truth, hope, goodness, and God's presence. Fill your minds with thoughts about good things. Think about things that are true, clean, right, and lovely. Fixing our minds on good things means we are not fixated on fearful things. We are not controlled by fear. Whatever consistently holds our attention begins to shape our experience. If our attention is continually fixed on problems, uncertainty, and worst-case scenarios, our minds and bodies begin responding as though danger is always present. But when our attention is fixed on Christ, something begins to change. Peace. Hope. A Realistic Perspective. We remember that our circumstances are not our source. God is our source. Hebrews 12:2 "Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end." Life moves quickly for all of us. As we run, we must always look toward Jesus. Fixing our eyes on Jesus means continually centering our thoughts, actions, and priorities on Him rather than on circumstances and distractions. What we become most aware of often becomes our experience. Romans 15:13 "Now may God, the fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in him. And may the power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with his super-abundance until you radiate with hope!" But what happens when our thoughts are filled with fear? Panic? Uncertainty? This is where renewal becomes necessary. We have to rewire so we can refire. REWIRE PHASE: (Unlearning & Resetting) Romans 6:14 "Remember this: sin will not conquer you, for God already has! You are not governed by law but governed by the reign of the grace of God." Sometimes we remain in bondage because we continue believing old stories that God has already set us free from. We must allow our thinking to be renewed. Ephesians 4:23 "And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind." Renewing the mind is a daily process. It is shifting away from fear-based thinking and aligning ourselves with God's truth. It is an inward transformation that eventually changes everything else. "Now it's time to be made new by every revelation that has been given to you." REFIRE PHASE: NEW ALIGNMENT Igniting Your New Purpose (New Alignment) Every day we are either strengthening existing thought patterns or creating new ones. We are reinforcing fear or reinforcing faith. God told Israel: "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds." Deut 11:18 Augustine famously said: "Our hearts are restless until they rest in You." Healing and restoration often begin when we stop striving and start resting in God. Peace becomes the soil where healing can grow. God created our bodies with an amazing capacity to heal and restore themselves. One of the ways He designed us for healing is through the gift of breath. In Genesis we are told that God breathed the breath of life into humanity. Breath is more than a physical necessity. It is a reminder of God's life flowing within us. When we are anxious, fearful, or overwhelmed, our breathing often becomes shallow. Our bodies shift into what is commonly called "fight or flight." This is called the sympathetic nervous system. It is a God-given survival mechanism designed to protect us in moments of danger. But most of the threats we face today are not “life-threatening.” They are deadlines. Bills. Schedules. Relationships. Expectations. The problem is that if we do not learn to discern the difference between a real crisis and an imagined one, we can remain stuck in a constant state of fight or flight. It is like revving the engine of a car. At first it seems harmless. But eventually something begins to wear down. When we pause, breathe deeply, and allow ourselves to relax, we help bring the body back into balance. We give ourselves permission to let go of the struggle for a moment and rest in God's care. Do you ever find it hard to settle down at night? Psalm 4:8: "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety." The parasympathetic nervous system essentially sends a message throughout the body: "You are safe." How beautiful that Scripture has been saying the same thing all along. "Dwell in safety." Jesus said: "Remain in Me." The next step is stillness. "Be still and know that I am God." Stillness is not doing nothing. Stillness is becoming aware. Aware of God's presence. Aware that we are loved. Aware that we are held. Aware that we are not carrying life alone. When we move from fear toward peace, the body no longer has to remain on constant alert. Instead, it can devote its energy toward restoration and healing. True Rest This is one reason prayer, deep breathing, quiet reflection, and trust in God are such powerful parts of the healing journey. Your body is not your enemy. Most of the time it is doing its best to protect you. As you learn to breathe deeply, embrace stillness, and place your trust in God, you create an environment where healing can flourish. Psalm 62:5-6 says: "My soul, wait silently for God, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my refuge; I shall not be moved." ( ) For a moment, let your heart become still before the Lord. Take a slow breath. Remember that God is with you. Trust that His healing work is already underway. Sometimes the greatest step forward is simply returning to stillness. Wrapping this up: Romans 15:13 (today’s scripture): "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" Are you ready for God to do something new in your life? Eph 3:20 reminds us that God is “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Perhaps the next step is simply becoming open to what God wants to do. St Benedict taught a Prayer Form called: Lectio Divina – Divine Reading When we get quiet enough – God can speak to us. “Let go – and make room for new things.” Before we come to the Lord's Table, I invite you to become still. Take a slow breath. And another. Listen to these words from Psalm 62: "My soul, wait silently for God, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my refuge; I shall not be moved." What word or phrase stands out to you? (Pause) Listen once more. "My soul, wait silently for God, for my hope is from Him." What might God be inviting you to release today? ( ) Fear? Control? Worry? A burden you have been carrying alone? (Pause) Now simply rest. No striving. No fixing. No performing. Just resting in the Presence of the One Who loves you. (Long Pause) Hear these words: "You are safe in Me." Jesus says, "Remain in Me." "My peace I give to you." Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. HOLY COMMUNION Today we have spoken about fixing our thoughts, renewing our minds, slowing down, breathing deeply, and resting in God's presence. But peace is not ultimately a technique. Peace is a Person. Jesus Christ. Eph 2:14: “For Christ himself has brought peace to us. “ We do not find peace by trying harder. We find peace by drawing nearer. Nearer to Christ. Nearer to His presence. Nearer to His grace. "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." At this table we remember that Christ has come near. He invites us to remain in Him. And as we receive these gifts, may we also receive His peace. 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 Fix Thoughts Mandarin 调整你的思想 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/21/2026 Description An account of the resource 1. Romans 15:13 Now may God, the fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in him. And may the power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with his super-abundance until you radiate with hope! 但愿使人有盼望的神，因信将诸般的喜乐平安充满你们的心，使你们借着圣灵的能力大有盼望。 2. Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 弟兄们，我还有未尽的话：凡是真实的、可敬的、公义的、清洁的、可爱的、有美名的，若有什么德行，若有什么称赞，这些事你们都要思念。 3. Hebrews 12:2 Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. 仰望为我们信心创始成终的耶稣。 4. Ephesians 4:23 And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind. 又要将你们的心志改换一新。 5. Psalm 62:5-6 My soul, wait silently for God, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my refuge; I shall not be moved. 我的心哪，你当默默无声，专等候神，因为我的盼望是从他而来。惟独他是我的磐石，我的拯救；他是我的高台，我必不动摇。 6. Psalm 4:8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety. 我必安然躺下睡觉，因为独有你耶和华使我安然居住。 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/8f98a5406f32830ce080359e13d4a442.jpg 0911dbd8545489fa45d2f3f848da1204 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/f5ef5452d841f5dd897cc90342125dc1.mp4 c0966a5b93af4dc1b210fa4b22c54ea8 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 2026 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 Don’t Forget to Remember John 20:30-31 A few weeks ago, during a water-only fast, something unexpected happened. After about three days it felt as though a switch had been turned back on in my mind. Memories began flooding back. Things I had not thought about in years suddenly came into focus. I found myself saying, “Wow! I haven’t thought about that in years!” (can you relate?) The word remember means “to recall to mind” or “to bring again to memory.” Its Latin roots literally mean “to become mindful again.” There are some things we desperately want to remember, and there are some things we would rather forget. Sometimes we chase our tail into a seemingly downward spiral of despair. One thing after another.  It isn't punishment. It isn't bad luck. It's conditioning. We’re running on autopilot. I heard it said, “Most people aren't consciously creating their lives. They're unconsciously continuing them.” We need to be like Paul and forget those things which are behind us… while still remembering the good things God has done for over in the past. Remember His unfailing love. His mercy. His grace. …but God also says to us, “Forget the former things. Seee I Am doing a New Thing!” Today I want to speak about the spiritual power of remembering. John tells us that many things Jesus did were not written down, but these things were written so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ and that by believing we might have life in His name. The Gospel itself is a holy reminder. God knows we can be prone to forget. Point 1: We Forget More Than We Realize Life has a way of obstructing our memory about the faithfulness of God. We sometimes forget answered prayers. We forget miracles. We might somehow forget how God carried us through difficult seasons. Fear often grows where memory is weak. Anxiety causes us to become intensely aware of the problem. Faith causes us to become intensely aware of God's presence. Think of Peter walking on the water. As long as he looked at Jesus, he walked. When he became focused on the wind and waves, he began to sink. Sometimes our greatest need is not more information. Sometimes our greatest need is to simply remember. David said, “In my distress I called upon the Lord.” He remembered where help comes from. When we remember God's faithfulness, our faith becomes stronger. Point 2: The Holy Spirit Helps Us Remember Jesus said in John 14:26 that the Holy Spirit would bring all things to our remembrance. But the Comforter, who is the Holy Ghost whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. The Spirit does more than teach us new things. He reminds us of truths we already know but may have forgotten. The Psalmist declared, “I won't forget to walk in Your words.” (Psalm 119:16 TPT) Notice he did not simply say, “I won't forget Your words.” He said, “I won't forget to walk in Your words.” Re-membering is not merely recalling information. Remembering is returning to alignment. God's Word was never meant to simply occupy our minds. It is meant to direct our steps. The Holy Spirit continually reminds us so that we can walk in alignment with what God has said rather than merely admire it from a distance. He reminds us: • God is still faithful. • God is still present. • God still keeps His promises. When fear rises, ask yourself: “Where is God in this moment?” The answer is always closer than we think. The Holy Spirit continually points us back to Christ. He reminds us that we are never abandoned – we are never alone. Point 3: Re-Membering Means Being Put Back Together One of the most fascinating discoveries in preparing this message was realizing that “dismember” means to take apart, while “remember” can be viewed as putting back together. Life can leave us feeling dis-membered. Disappointments can fragment our confidence. Failures can fragment our hope. Loss can fragment our peace. But God's grace specializes in putting people back together. Re-Membering The Holy Spirit reminds us Who God is and who we are. He restores what fear, failure, and discouragement have attempted to tear apart. Colossians tells us that we are being renewed into the likeness of Christ. God is continually at work renewing our minds, renewing our hearts, and renewing our lives. Sometimes we must let go of old stories in order to embrace God's new story. What story are you carrying today? ( ) I once heard anxiety described this way: “Anxiety is often two competing ideas fighting against each other.” “This is the way I want things to be.” vs: “This is the way things currently are.” When those two realities collide, tension is created. James tells us that “a double-minded person is unstable in all his ways.” Sometimes our instability comes from trying to live in two stories at the same time. One story is the old life. The other story is the new life Christ is calling us into. One story is centered on self. The other story is centered on Christ. “Remember the Mission” One story says, “I have to figure this out.” The other says, “Apart from Him I can do nothing.” The Christian life is not learning how to improve the old story. It is allowing Jesus to become the center of a completely new story. Point 4: Remember the Past, But Don't Live There There is a balance in Scripture. We already stated: God tells us to remember His faithfulness. But He also says, “Forget the former things. See, I am doing a new thing.” We remember God's goodness, but we do not remain trapped in yesterday. We remember His mercy. We remember His grace. We remember His provision. But then we move forward into the new thing He is doing. Some old doors must close before new doors can open. Sometimes delays are actually divine preparation. As John Maxwell says, “we either prepare or we repair.” God wants us to move forward with wisdom, faith, and expectancy. Conclusion To walk into God's future, we must release the old story that no longer defines us. We are not who we were before Christ. We are not defined by our failures. We are not defined by our fears. We are not defined by our past. We are being renewed into His image day by day. The more Christ becomes the center of our lives, the more the old story loses its power. Psalm 27:13 says, “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Maybe today God is asking you to remember what fear has made you forget. Remember His faithfulness. Remember His promises. Remember His presence. And as you re-member, allow God's grace to put the pieces back together. Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your faithfulness through every season of our lives. Forgive us for the times we have forgotten Your goodness, Your promises, and Your presence. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, bring to our remembrance all that You have spoken. Strengthen our faith. Renew our minds. Heal the places that have become fragmented through fear, disappointment, or discouragement. Help us remember Your mercy while embracing the new thing You are doing. Let Your peace rule in our hearts and Your hope fill our minds. Today we choose to remember that You are with us, You are for us, and You are still at work in our lives. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen. "The Christian life is not learning how to improve the old story. It is allowing Jesus to become the center of a completely new story." 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 Remember: Returning To Alignment 记得: 回到与神对齐的位置 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/14/2026 Description An account of the resource JOHN 20:31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name. 约翰福音 20:31 但记这些事，要叫你们信耶稣是基督，是 神的儿子；并且叫你们信了他，就可以因他的名得生命。 JOHN 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 约翰福音 14:26 但保惠师，就是父因我的名所要差来的圣灵，他要将一切的事指教你们，并且要叫你们想起我对你们所说的一切话。 PSALM 119:16 (TPT) I won’t forget to walk in Your words. 诗篇 119:16 我要在你的律例中自乐； 我不忘记你的话。 COLOSSIANS 3:10 Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 歌罗西书 3:10 穿上了新人；这新人在知识上渐渐更新，正如造他主的形象。 PSALM 27:13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. 诗篇 27:13 我若不信在活人之地得见耶和华的恩惠，就早已丧胆了。 PSALM 62:5-6 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him. 诗篇 62:5-6 我的心哪，你当默默无声， 专等候 神，因为我的盼望是从他而来。 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/45ce31b38ff81f8234f9aa9b8b1673c0.jpg 00f11b3a41698b5110884566196b77cf https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4d1b447679c5d811534fae0053740004.mp4 4c8ffa5a91601c870c5508607ea8eb4e 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 2026 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 IF WE ONLY KNEW John 4:5-10 For a moment, let your heart become still before the Lord. Let these words I share today settle deeply into your spirit. The Lord impressed something on my heart during my time away: "Don't think that you will go home and be the same person you were before. You won't be." That resonated with me. Because the changes God has been making in my life are still happening. They haven't stopped. Last week we talked about that word “commencement “ In many ways, I feel as though I am still in the middle of my own commencement. A beginning. A becoming. Sometimes we expect transformation to arrive all at once. But often, the biggest changes in our lives happen through many small steps. One thought can change a decision. One decision can change a direction. And one direction can eventually change a life. God has a way of bringing new information, new situations, new conversations, and even new people into our lives. Each one becomes another piece of what He is building within us. One time on a plane ride home, I was sitting with a new found friend – and brother in Christ: "I think God's going to surprise you." I believe that's true. And I believe maybe God wants to surprise some of us today. Our scripture comes from John chapter 4. Jesus is sitting beside Jacob's well when a Samaritan woman comes to draw water. At first glance, it seems like an ordinary meeting. But it becomes one of the most powerful conversations in Scripture. This woman was an outsider. She carried shame. She carried disappointment. She carried questions. Yet Jesus intentionally met her where she was. GOD wants to meet us where WE are today. “If WE only knew…” The story of the woman at the well teaches us that God loves us in spite of our bankrupt lives. God values us enough to actively seek us. To welcome us into intimacy. To rejoice in our worship. As a result of this conversation, only a person like the Samaritan woman could fully understand what Jesus was offering. To be wanted. To be cared for. To be seen. …even when no one possibly else saw value in her. Maybe not even when she saw value in herself. That is grace indeed. And then Jesus says these remarkable words: "If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water." “If you only knew.” That phrase has stayed with me all week. “If you only knew.” If WE only knew. Sometimes we have to get lost before we find ourselves. Jesus finds us right where we are. “Just as I am” The woman at the well had her eyes opened to the truth about her situation when she met Jesus. She came for water. She left with something infinitely greater. Jesus revealed that despite all her trips to the well, she remained thirsty. Not merely physically thirsty. Spiritually. Emotionally. Deep within her soul. The water she drew today could not satisfy tomorrow's thirst. And isn't that often true of us? How many times do we return to the same wells expecting lasting satisfaction? The well of success. The well of approval. The well of comfort. The well of distraction. Yet we keep returning because the thirst remains. Jesus was offering something different. Living Water. A relationship with God that permanently satisfies the deepest longings of the human heart. Today I want us to consider three things. Three truths hidden inside Jesus' words. First: IF WE ONLY KNEW HOW MUCH GOD DELIGHTS IN US Many people believe God tolerates them. But they struggle to believe God delights in them. Listen to Zephaniah 3:17: "The Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." Imagine that. The Creator of the universe delights in you. (in me) Not merely the future version of you. Not the perfected version of you. You. Right now. The Samaritan woman expected judgment. Instead she found grace. She expected rejection. Instead she found acceptance. “Mercy triumphs over judgment.” If we only knew how much God delights in us, perhaps we would stop hiding from Him and start running toward Him. Second: IF WE ONLY KNEW WHAT GOD HAS ALREADY PLACED WITHIN US Jesus later declared: "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." Notice what Jesus said. Not merely water for you. Water flowing through you. Not just enough for survival. Enough to overflow. First Corinthians 2:12 tells us: "What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us." Many believers spend their lives praying for what God has already provided. Looking for what is already present. Seeking strength while carrying strength. Seeking wisdom while carrying the mind of Christ. Seeking peace while carrying the Prince of Peace. If we only knew what God has already placed within us, we would walk differently. Pray differently. Live differently. Third: IF WE ONLY KNEW WHAT GOD STILL WANTS TO DO THROUGH US There is another verse that connects beautifully with this story. Jesus said: "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends." The woman came to the well as a stranger. She left as a friend of God. What happened at the well was more than a conversation. It was an invitation. An invitation into relationship. An invitation into friendship. An invitation into purpose. Jesus doesn't merely save us from something. He saves us for something. There are still prayers to answer. Lives to touch. People to encourage. Blessings to discover. Kingdom work to accomplish. There is more ahead than we realize. (“if you only knew”) Sometimes we look at our lives and think the best chapters have already been written. But God is still writing. God is still creating. God is still surprising. And if we only knew what He has planned, we would approach tomorrow with expectation instead of fear. As our perspective changes, everything changes. When the blinders come off, we begin to see possibilities where we once saw obstacles. Blessings where we once saw burdens. Opportunities where we once saw limitations. The greatest tragedy is not that God has withheld His blessings from us. The greatest tragedy is that we often live unaware of what He has already given. Isaiah 55:1 says: "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters." And Isaiah 12:3 says: "With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation." Today Jesus is offering us a better way to live. Not merely surviving. Not merely going through the motions. Not merely repeating yesterday. But living with expectation. Living with purpose. Living with joy. He restores your soul. Consider that the answer you've been looking for is already closer than you think. - the strength you need is already available. - the peace you need is already present. - the Living Water is already flowing. Jesus said: "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." If we only knew. If WE only knew. Amen. Closing Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank You for meeting us at the wells of our lives just as You met the Samaritan woman. Thank You for loving us, seeking us, and offering us living water today. Open our eyes to see what You have already given us. Help us to understand how deeply You delight in us, how richly You have blessed us, and how greatly You still desire to work through us. Renew our faith. Strengthen our hearts. Lift our expectations. And help us to leave this place different from how we came. May streams of living water flow through our lives and become a blessing to everyone around us. We recommit ourselves to You today. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. 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 If We Only Knew 我们若知道 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/07/2026 Description An account of the resource John 4:10 (NIV) Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” 约翰福音 4:10 (CUVS) 耶稣回答说：“你若知道神的恩赐，和对说话的是谁，你必早求他，他也必早赐给你活水。” John 7:38 (NIV) Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within them. 约翰福音 7:38 (CUVS) 信我的人，就如经上所说：“从他腹中要流出活水的江河来。” Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV) For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs. 西番雅书 3:17 (CUVS) 耶和华一你的 神，在你中间，是大有能力的救主；他必因你欢欣喜乐，默默爱你，因你喜乐而欢呼。 1 Corinthians 2:12 (NIV) What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. 哥林多前书 2:12 (CUVS) 我们所领受的，并不是世上的灵，乃是从神来的灵，叫我们能知道神开恩赐给我们的事。 John 15:14-15 (NIV) You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 约翰福音 15:14-15 (CUVS) 你们若遵行我所吩咐的，就是我的朋友了。我不再称你们为仆人；因为仆人不知道主人所作的事；我乃称你们为朋友；因我从父所听见的，都已经告诉你们了。 Isaiah 12:3 (NIV) With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. 以赛亚书 12:3 (CUVS) 你们必欢欢喜喜地从救恩的泉源中取水。 1 Corinthians 2:16 (NIV) We have the mind of Christ. 哥林多前书 2:16 (CUVS) 我们已经得了基督的心意。 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/57183e41b04fa12ccfac6305a532ae1e.png b4a583b7f3426161b2d053fe84dc216c https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/368ea84be605234ef02df59db7d4c33a.mp4 2a0a57325b9a34d715a10b65bf033d87 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 2026 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 ONLY THE BEGINNING Saved by His Life Romans 5:10 COMMENCEMENT When you graduate, it is only the beginning—the start. Growth and learning continue and expand beyond who we were at “commencement.” Jim Rohn never stopped learning. Conferences, mentors, books, and conversations. He said, “The day you stop learning is the day you start declining.” In most martial arts disciplines, a belt system indicates rank and training. In Tae Kwon Do, a white belt is a beginner. The Japanese word “Shoshin” means “Beginner’s Mind.” Stay open. Drop the ego. Growth often starts when we unlearn what we think we know. When you're green, you grow; when you're ripe, you rot. Your youth is renewed as you stay fresh—learning and growing. God doesn't simply want us to stay as we are. He wants us to become the man or woman He created us to be. Jesus spoke of a sheep that had fallen into a pit. He did not say, “It is your own fault. Stay there.” He reaches down and lifts it out. If you cannot change, you are not free. Growing old is not a bad thing. It is a gift. What matters is what we do with the time we are given. We are to become more and more Christ-like. What began at salvation (justification) is to continue through sanctification. Hebrews 10:14 — “For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3 — “For this is the will of God, your sanctification.” What happened at salvation was not the finish line. It was only the beginning. Romans 5:10 “For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!” FOREVER JUSTIFIED Justification is a once-for-all declaration by God. Through the sacrifice of Jesus, believers are forgiven and declared righteous. It is complete and secure. BEING SANCTIFIED Sanctification is the ongoing process of being transformed into the character of Christ. Our position is secure, but our daily lives continue to be shaped by the Holy Spirit. God wills our sanctification. Sanctification and holiness both carry the idea of being set apart for God. John Wesley said, “The perfection I teach is perfect love.” The process of sanctification begins with justification. We must first receive and believe that we have been redeemed. Romans 5:1–2 reminds us that we have peace with God and stand in His grace. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we[a] 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. (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. And this is only the beginning. Romans 5:10 means that if God loved us enough to reconcile us while we were His enemies, He will certainly keep us now that we are His children. Two truths emerge: • Reconciled by His death. • Saved by His life. John Wesley saw Romans 5:10 as a progression of grace. If God reconciled us through Christ’s death while we were enemies, we can be confident that His living power continues to save, sanctify, and ultimately glorify us. So what does Romans 5:10 mean for us today? It means that God is not finished with us. If He loved us enough to reconcile us while we were still His enemies, He certainly will not abandon us now that we are His children. What began at salvation is meant to continue through sanctification. God is still teaching us. Still shaping us. Still transforming us into the likeness of Christ. So stay teachable. Stay humble. Stay green. Because when you're green, you grow. Christ’s life is at work within you. Phil 2:13: God will continually revitalize you, implanting within you the passion to do what pleases him. The good news of the Gospel is not simply that we were saved by His death. The good news is that we are being saved by His life. And that means your story is not finished. God is still at work. What happened at salvation was not the finish line. It was only the beginning. PRAYER OF COMMITTAL Heavenly Father, Thank You for reconciling us to Yourself through Jesus Christ. Thank You that Your work in us did not end at salvation. Continue to shape us, teach us, and transform us by Your Spirit. Keep our hearts humble and teachable. Help us to become more like Christ with each passing day. And Lord, as we leave this place today, help us to remember that You are not finished with us yet. We place ourselves in Your hands and trust You to complete the good work You have begun in us. In Jesus' name, 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 Only the Beginning 这只是开始 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/31/2026 Description An account of the resource Romans 5:1,2: Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 罗 马 书 5:1-2: 我 们 既 因 信 称 义 ， 就 借 着 我 们 的 主 耶 稣 基 督 得 与 　 神 相 和 。我 们 又 借 着 他 ， 因 信 得 进 入 现 在 所 站 的 这 恩 典 中 ， 并 且 欢 欢 喜 喜 盼 望 　 神 的 荣 耀 。 Romans 5:10: For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 罗 马 书 5:10: 因 为 我 们 作 仇 敌 的 时 候 ， 且 借 着 　 神 儿 子 的 死 ， 得 与 　 神 和 好 ； 既 已 和 好 ， 就 更 要 因 他 的 生 得 救 了 。 1 Thessalonians 4:3: For this is the will of God, even your sanctification. 帖 撒 罗 尼 迦 前 书 4:3: 神 的 旨 意 就 是 要 你 们 成 为 圣 洁 。 Hebrews 10:14: For by one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified. 希 伯 来 书 10:14: 因 为 他 一 次 献 祭 ， 便 叫 那 得 以 成 圣 的 人 永 远 完 全 。 Philippians 1:6: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. 腓 立 比 书 1:6: 我 深 信 那 在 你 们 心 里 动 了 善 工 的 ， 必 成 全 这 工 ， 直 到 耶 稣 基 督 的 日 子 。 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/87a23ba96abdf9051d20c527b7676552.jpg 66353b8ad9c52813f6df90a0967484b8 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/285d296649f0b7a7529c4cb2577023dc.mp4 cded83733acb5801c76bc2b73d72dda1 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 2026 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 911 or 333? Jeremiah 33:3 ? Who do we call first when life breaks down? 911? Google? YouTube? Ourselves? Or God? In Luke 4:23, Jesus quotes an ancient proverb: “Physician, heal thyself.” In medicine and healthcare, this basically means that experts should “practice what they preach” and sometimes seek help themselves rather than relying entirely on self-treatment. Well… I just returned from a 10-day health program where all nine of us probably thought we were experts on health and nutrition — and yet there we were together, all seeking help in order to become healthy again. Since my late teens, I have been fascinated — maybe sometimes even obsessed — with alternative health and natural healing. Back then, all we had were a few hard-to-find health books and articles in Prevention Magazine. Now we have the internet, YouTube, podcasts, influencers, and A.I. to ensure we remain thoroughly confused about the right choices to make. And in recent months, my own thoughts have sounded something like this: “What if I try this?” “What if I stop eating that?” “What am I doing wrong?” “What do I need to change?” “What supplement am I missing?” And honestly… this is humbling to admit. But I suspect some people listening today can relate. And what is the common element in all those questions? “I.” “Me.” “My effort.” “My understanding.” The focus becomes what I can do. But the older I get, the more I realize: Self-focused effort can only take us so far. Sooner or later, we all come to the end of ourselves. And that brings me to the real question this morning: Who are you going to call? 911… or 333? Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Rather than merely seeking healing… we must run directly to the Healer. When life breaks down… when our bodies fail… when our minds are overwhelmed… when our hearts are exhausted… God says: “Call unto Me.” Not: “Figure it out yourself.” Not: “Carry it alone.” Not:“Trust only your own understanding.” “Call unto Me.” I remember my pastor many years ago quoting this verse to me: 1 Tim 4:8: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” Paul was telling Timothy that while physical discipline and exercise have benefit, spiritual life and fellowship with God are far more important because they affect both this life and eternity. And hear me clearly: There is nothing wrong with wanting to improve your health. There is nothing wrong with learning wisdom about the body God gave you. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. But rather than merely seeking healing… we must run directly to the Healer. Rom 10:13: For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. And remember: Our New Covenant salvation touches every area of life — spirit, soul, and body. We needed salvation, so God sent a Savior. Jesus said in John 6:47: “Verily, verily I say unto you, He that believeth in Me hath everlasting life.” There is nothing I can do in my own power to overcome sin. Nothing I can do to cleanse myself. Nothing I can do to redeem myself. And in the same way, even with all the modern knowledge and technology available today, Jesus Christ is still the True Healer. (True or true?) The question is: Where is our focus when we seek restoration? Because self-effort without God eventually becomes exhausting. Salvation and healing flow from God’s grace through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:24: He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed. And when we finally come to ourselves… we must run back to Jesus. There is healing today at the Throne of Grace. One more day of God’s amazing grace. Jesus said: “Repent ye and believe the Gospel.” Acts 20:24 calls it: “the Gospel of the grace of God.” And then Acts 20:32 says: “And so now, I entrust you into God’s hands and the message of his grace, which is all that you need to become strong. All of God’s blessings are imparted through the message of his grace, which he provides as the spiritual inheritance given to all of his holy ones.” Did you hear that? The message of His grace is what makes us strong. Paul said: “But whether I live or die is not important, for I don’t esteem my life as indispensable. It’s more important for me to fulfill my destiny and to finish the ministry my Lord Jesus has assigned to me, which is to faithfully preach the wonderful news of God’s grace.” Church, we must get this Good News about the good things of God to as many people as possible. Romans 10:14 says: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” I think about the woman with the issue of blood. She spent everything she had. She suffered for twelve years. She tried everything within her own power. And the Bible says her condition only became worse. But then… “she heard about Jesus.” She stopped chasing methods… and reached for the Master. And today we must do the same. We look to the Savior.We look to the Healer. Now, yes — it is wise to have discipline concerning what we put into our bodies. They belong to God. It is His temple. But scripture also warns us not to become overly consumed with comparisons, arguments, dietary restrictions and external regulations. Romans 14:6: The one who eats everything eats to honor the Lord, because he gives thanks to God, and the one who has a special diet does it to honor the Lord, and he also gives thanks to God. This does not mean we throw away common sense. It means we keep our focus centered on Christ. We all need wisdom. And Jesus Himself is our wisdom. 1 Corinthians 1:30: For it is not from man that we draw our life but from God as we are being joined to Jesus, the Anointed One. And now He is our God-given wisdom, our virtue, our holiness, and our redemption. Christ becomes our wisdom. Our guide. Our direction. He teaches us how to live. How to conduct ourselves. What to pursue. What to avoid. How to walk through unique situations. “Lean not unto your own understanding.” Psalm 19:7 “The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul.” And the Book of James tells us that if we ask in faith without doubting, God will give us wisdom for every unique situation we face. So why depend entirely upon worldly wisdom… when as believers we have access to Divine Intelligence? (D.I.) God still says: “Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” So now - this very morning, let us prepare our hearts to come to the table of God’s amazing grace. Come as you are. Romans 10:4 says: “For Christ is the end of the law. And because of him, God has transferred his perfect righteousness to all who believe.” Bring your needs. Bring your burdens. Bring your prayer requests. Come knowing that through Jesus Christ, you have been accepted into the Beloved. John 6:47: “I speak to you living truth: Unite your heart to me and believe—and you will experience eternal life!” John 6:35: Then Jesus declared, ‘I Am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’” Closing Congregational Prayer Heavenly Father, today we come to You honestly and humbly. We confess that so often we rely upon our own understanding, our own strength, our own wisdom, and our own efforts. But today we turn our hearts back toward You. Teach us to call upon the Lord first. Teach us to trust You more deeply. Teach us to rest in Your grace. Lord Jesus, thank You for carrying our sins, our burdens, our fears, and our brokenness to the cross. Thank You that by Your wounds we are healed. Thank You that Your grace is still greater than our weakness. Today we bring You every need: our physical needs, our emotional needs, our family needs, our spiritual needs. Give us wisdom for every situation. Give us strength for every battle. Give us peace in every storm. Help us to keep our eyes upon You, Lord Jesus — our Savior, our Healer, our Wisdom, and our Life. And as we come to Your table today, we come by grace alone. We receive Your love. We receive Your mercy. We receive Your life. In Jesus’ name, 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 911 or 333? 911 或 333 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/24/2026 Description An account of the resource Jeremiah 33:3: Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. 耶 利 米 書 33:3: 你求告我，我就应允你，并将你所不知道、又大又难的事指示你。 (page 1290) Romans 10:13: For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 羅 馬 書 10:13: 因为“凡求告主名的，就必得救。(page 1836) 1 Peter 2:24: He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed. 彼 得 前 書 2:24: 他 被 挂 在 木 头 上 ， 亲 身 担 当 了 我 们 的 罪 ， 使 我 们 既 然 在 罪 上 死 ， 就 得 以 在 义 上 活 。 因 他 受 的 鞭 伤 ， 你 们 便 得 了 医 治 。(page 1968) Acts 20:32: “And so now, I entrust you into God’s hands and the message of his grace, which is all that you need to become strong. All of God’s blessings are imparted through the message of his grace, which he provides as the spiritual inheritance given to all of his holy ones.” 使 徒 行 傳 20:32: 现在，我把你们交付给上帝和他恩典的信息，它能坚定你们的信仰，并把上帝赐给他所有圣民的祝福赐给你们。(page 1804) 1 Corinthians 1:30: For it is not from man that we draw our life but from God as we are being joined to Jesus, the Anointed One. And now He is our God-given wisdom, our virtue, our holiness, and our redemption. 歌 林 多 前 書 1:30: 但 你 们 得 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 ， 是 本 乎 神 ， 神 又 使 他 成 为 我 们 的 智 慧 、 公 义 、 圣 洁 、 救 赎 。 (page 1848) Psalm 19:7: The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. 詩 篇 19:7: 耶 和 华 的 律 法 全 备 ， 能 苏 醒 人 心 ； 耶 和 华 的 法 度 确 定 ， 能 使 愚 人 有 智 慧 。(page 897) John 6:35: “I am the bread of life,” replied Jesus. “Anyone who comes to me will never be hungry! Anyone who believes in me will never be thirsty!” 約 翰 福 音 6:35: 耶 稣 说 ： 我 就 是 生 命 的 粮 。 到 我 这 里 来 的 ， 必 定 不 饿 ； 信 我 的 ， 永 远 不 渴 (page 1728) 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