4 10 83 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/f341513411094b0ebeef35ca14bb77af.jpg f82d914f1e5a2ec938e84831b45759a0 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c4e3f7b6ad217c54dcbfa5ec701eda1e.mp4 e6fe4b87e10032228ed73e2d74193674 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Grace and Peace: Building a Legacy That Lasts Last Week: “What if this was the last time I got to do this?” Psalm 90:12: Teach us how short our life is, so that we may become wise. If we are living in true alignment, we consider our daily steps in life. "When I leave this earth, I want to leave a legacy that my family will be proud of." How many of us have thought something similar? C.S. Lewis : "For you will certainly carry out God's purpose, however you act, but it makes a difference to you whether you serve like Judas or like John." A legacy is the long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, or a person's life that continues after we're gone. The truth is, we all start somewhere—and we will all end up somewhere. What we do in-between will determine our legacy. For most of us, we'll be forgotten by many shortly after we shed this mortal coil. But not for those that we leave our message in their heart. When your legacy is written on the hearts of those your life has touched, the impact can go on for generations to come. For "the rest of your life to become the best of your life," you must accept the challenge and responsibility to change. To continue to grow. This decision requires subsequent, radical action. We only have so much time left to develop and leave a legacy for future generations. If you spend your remaining days worrying about what everybody thinks about you, someday you'll never have to worry about it again because, once you're gone, you won't have left behind a legacy people will remember. That sounds harsh, but that's what leadership and legacy are all about. You won't always win approval—and you will certainly face criticism. If we are to stay in alignment with God's purpose, we must accept this reality and still take that "road less traveled." It might not always align with what others think we should be doing. Heb 3:14: "For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ." This is where our key verse comes in. 2 Peter 1:2 says, "May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." The Amplified Bible expands this: "May grace (God's favor) and peace (which is perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity, and freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts) be multiplied to you in the full, personal, precise, and correct knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." The word "multiplied" signifies an increase, an overflowing abundance, suggesting that God's grace and peace are not static but can grow and deepen in a believer's life. As Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones beautifully explained: "Grace leads to peace. It brings peace with God by reconciling us to Him. It brings internal peace and peace with others by changing our view of others. It brings the peace of God which guards our hearts and minds." Ephesians 1:2 echoes this: "Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." This greeting emphasizes that both grace and peace originate from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, highlighting the divine source of these blessings. Imagine what your life could look like with multiplied grace and peace. Remember Jesus' words in Matthew 13:12: "For whoever has, more will be given to him, and he will have more than enough; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." MSG: "Whenever someone has a ready heart for this, the insights and understandings flow freely. But if there is no readiness, any trace of receptivity soon disappears." Do you recognize God's grace, peace, and divine mercy operating in your life? Take a moment to reflect on His grace and mercy in your personal history. Psalm 124:1 prompts us to consider: "If the Lord had not been on our side..." Look at all the forgiveness you've experienced—the second and fifth chances you've had—the restoration you've experienced when you know you didn't deserve it. This is God's divine mercy at work. As the song says, "Give thanks with a grateful heart." Jude 2 affirms: "May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you." This is the central blessing, wishing for a plentiful experience of God's grace (mercy), wholeness and harmony (peace), and love for God and others. Your legacy depends upon your pursuits. May grace and peace be multiplied to you. There's an old saying: "What you are seeking is seeking you." Didn't Psalm 23 say, "Surely goodness and mercy will follow me"? Psalm 107:9 promises: "For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness." To build a legacy of grace and peace: 1. Recognize and receive God's grace in your own life first. You cannot give what you don't have. 2. Allow God's peace to transform your relationships. "Peace" means union and reconciliation after separation. As Colossians 1:21 reminds us: "At one time you were separated from God... But now..." 3. Become a channel of grace and peace to others. Proverbs 27:17 says: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Ask yourself: “Who am I sharpening? Who is sharpening me?” 4. Speak faith, grace, and peace into others' lives, just as spiritual mentors have also done for us in our lives . (like all of us) I am a work in progress, but I am also a piece of work. Still so very much that needs to change about me. We are very blessed if we have someone speaking grace and peace into our lives ( ) Some of my most influential pastors went on to be with the Lord years ago – …yet, their IMPACT, their LEGACY continues. <praying in the Spirit> I gratefully recognized so many faces of those who have and those who continue to speak faith into my life My life is a dim reflection of their dedication to Gospel ministry. These precious mentors shared Grace and Peace to me. Sometimes that meant they were seeing something (in me) that I couldn’t yet see. 5. Remember that true peace comes only through grace. You cannot get to "peace" without accepting God's grace first. "Peace" is much more than just the absence of conflict. There will never be true peace in the Middle East until Jesus returns. Just because people aren't shooting doesn't mean real peace exists. St. Alphonsus beautifully stated: "The more a person loves God, the more reason he has to hope in Him. This hope produces... an unutterable peace, which they preserve even in adversity, because, as they love God, and know how beautiful He is to those who love Him, they place all their confidence and find all their repose in Him alone." Grace is the gateway—it is God's open door—His gift to us. His open door back to fellowship. May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Accept God's grace so you can live in His peace and build a legacy that touches hearts for generations to come. As Ephesians 1:2 blesses us: "May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace." Do you believe this is for YOU? Will you receive it today? Titus 3:5: "He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." May grace and peace be multiplied to you Let us build a legacy of grace and peace that will outlive us and continue to transform lives long after we're gone. 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 Grace and Peace 恩 惠 、 平 安 Description An account of the resource 2 Peter 1:2: May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 彼 得 後 書 1:2: 愿 恩 惠 、 平 安 ， 因 你 们 认 识 神 和 我 们 主 耶 稣 ， 多 多 的 加 给 你 们 。(page 1972) Hebrews 3:14: For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. 希 伯 來 書 3:14: 我 们 若 将 起 初 确 实 的 信 心 坚 持 到 底 ， 就 在 基 督 里 有 分 了 。(page 1942) Ephesians 1:2: Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 以 弗 所 書 1:2: 愿 恩 惠 、 平 安 从 神 我 们 的 父 和 主 耶 稣 基 督 归 与 你 们 ！page 1894) Matthew 13:12: "For whoever has, more will be given to him, and he will have more than enough; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." 馬 太 福 音 13:12: 凡 有 的 ， 还 要 加 给 他 ， 叫 他 有 馀 ； 凡 没 有 的 ， 连 他 所 有 的 ， 也 要 夺 去 。( 1580) Jude 1:2: May mercy, peace and love be multiplied to you. 猶 大 書 2: 愿 怜 恤 、 平 安 、 慈 爱 多 多 的 加 给 你 们 (pg 1986) Titus 3:5: He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. 提多书 3:5: 借着重生之洗和圣灵的更新拯救了我们，这并非因为我们有义行，而是因为祂的怜悯. (1936) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/24/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/931fb40db1974dac5359053b9a3a0787.jpg f229a3867739c105555d8ffbf650769e https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/f3351bfb618aca1849d4562eee37691e.mp4 1300ac3c6cbc416d39bc9c67d8f1f36a 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 Powerlessness: Finding God's Strength in Our Weakness Matthew 9:35-38 "When he saw the vast crowds of people, Jesus' heart was deeply moved with compassion, because they seemed weary and helpless, like wandering sheep without a shepherd." I've shared with you before about some of my simple prayers that received immediate answers: "Lord, I need a ride." "Lord, I am out of ideas. If you want me to see that church..." What do these prayers have in common? They were born from a place of helplessness—moments when I recognized my own limitations and surrendered to God's power. Do you ever find yourself in a state of powerlessness over a certain situation? Perhaps you're facing something that feels completely beyond your control. Some challenges might seem small—like those I mentioned—but maybe yours is life-threatening...for you, or someone you love. It's often difficult for believers to admit their own struggles. We can be powerless over destructive habits or behavior patterns in our lives—or watch helplessly as someone we love battles their own demons. In twelve-step recovery programs, the first step acknowledges: "We admitted we were powerless over __________ - and that our lives had become unmanageable." When we find ourselves in an unmanageable situation, we stand at a crossroads: Do we give up—throw in the towel—or do we decide that we need help, and that maybe—just maybe—finding that help is actually possible? Jesus said: "God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs." (Matt 5:3) MSG: "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule." Can we humble ourselves enough today to admit, "I am powerless (in my own ability) to control my own tendency to do the wrong thing—and my life is unmanageable?" Your first thought might be, "Sure, I'm not perfect, but I'm not struggling like others are." Yet it doesn't take much reflection to realize everyone has their own set of struggles. If you can't identify one area of struggle in your life right now, maybe God has positioned you to be that one who can stand strong for the rest of us. Use this message (today) to build your faith so you can stand in the gap and believe for others. 1 Cor 10:12-13 reminds us: "Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence. No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it." The truth is, we ALL struggle with something. We all need help in some area of our lives. Matthew 5:3 (TPT) declares: "What happiness comes to you when you feel your spiritual poverty! For yours is the realm of heaven's kingdom." Part of our human nature is to refuse change until our pain exceeds our fear of changing. We deny our struggles until they become so overwhelming that we're finally crushed into realizing we need help. ? Why don't we save ourselves the misery and admit now what we're inevitably going to have to admit later? When we try to fix our problems ourselves, we often only make things worse. When we deny our humanity, our need for a new nature, and our total reliance on Christ—when we attempt to be the center of our own universe—we're playing God, and we always end up doing a poor imitation. We try to control our image—telling people we're fine when inside we're torn apart. We try to fix ourselves and our problems until they're so big and out of control that we finally have no choice but to reach out for help. We do everything we can to control our pain—whether by avoiding it, denying it, reducing it, or postponing it. But there's always ultimately that moment of truth when we can no longer deny reality... when we finally admit, "I am powerless in my own ability, and my life is unmanageable." In essence, we're admitting, "I am not God." Psalm 145:8-9 tells us: "The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made." When Jesus walked this earth, He demonstrated that compassion. Our Scripture says, "When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." The people around Jesus probably had no idea just how broken their lives really were. We need to understand God's heart toward us and how He longs to heal our brokenness. Jesus lamented, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God's messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn't let me." Isaiah 57:18-19 offers these beautiful promises: "I have seen how they acted, but I will heal them. I will lead them and help them, and I will comfort those who mourn. I offer peace to all, both near and far! I will heal my people." Notice the five promises God extends: If you are hurt, God says, "I will heal you." If you're confused, God says, "I will lead you." If you feel helpless, God says, "I will help you." If you feel alone, God says, "I will comfort you." If you feel anxious and afraid, God says, "I will offer peace to you." "Trusting in His promises, we find hope for a better future—a life of freedom, peace, and happiness." We desperately need God because our lives are unmanageable without Him. We'll be forced to learn that lesson someday. We may as well admit it now. Are there still issues you struggle with? If you answered "yes," you know without a doubt that you're a citizen of the human race. The Bible tells us clearly we were born with a sin nature—a carnal mind. Only through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives can we rise beyond this. Colossians 3:10 instructs us: "Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him." This reveals two important truths: It is a choice—and it is a progressive change. We can't do it without the Power of Christ in us. Spurgeon wisely noted: "You may invite men to listen to your message, but you are only inviting them to gaze upon an empty table unless Christ is the very center and substance of all that you set before them." Psalm 62:5 reminds us: "Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him." We need new hope sometimes—and we need the House of God to pick us up and help us find the restoration that we will never find anywhere else. • What needs changing in your life? What hurt, hang-up, or habit have you been trying to ignore? Choosing to admit that you can't do it alone and that you need God is the first and hardest choice. It's humbling to say, "I have a problem and I need help." It means acknowledging, "I'm not God, and I don't have it together as I'd like everybody to think." But that is truly the beginning of healing. It is the road to victory. Jesus warned about the alternative: "For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes—so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them." It's time to ask God for the help we need. Do you recognize that God's grace offers real solutions to overcoming ourselves? Psalm 46:1 assures us: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (Publishers Clearinghouse) What if the Grand Prize was going to be delivered to your door? Jesus stands at the door of your heart today with the true answers you are seeking. John 16:24 promises: "Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." Matthew 18:19-20 reminds us of the power of agreement: "Again, I give you an eternal truth: If two of you agree to ask God for something in a symphony of prayer, my heavenly Father will do it for you. For wherever two or three come together in honor of my name, I am right there with them!" Today's scripture reminds us: "Then Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. 'What a huge harvest!' he said to his disciples. 'How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!'" Isn't that our job as a church—and as the Body of Christ? We need to be the hospital where souls find healing and restoration. Let's pray together: "Dear God, I want to take the first choice to healing and spiritual health today. I realize I am not You, God. I've often tried to control my problems, my pain, my image, and even other people—as if I were You. I'm sorry. I've tried to deny my problems by staying busy and keeping myself distracted. But I'm not running anymore. I admit that I am helpless to control this tendency to do things I know are unhealthy for me. Today I am asking for Your help. I humbly ask You to take all the pieces of my unmanageable life and begin the process of healing. Please heal me. Please give me the strength to choose health. Help me to persevere and continue this journey, led by Your hand. In Jesus' precious name, I 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 POWERLESS 无力 Description An account of the resource Matthew 9:36: When he saw the vast crowds of people, Jesus' heart was deeply moved with compassion, because they seemed weary and helpless, like wandering sheep without a shepherd. 馬 太 福 音 9:36: 他 看 见 许 多 的 人 ， 就 怜 悯 他 们 ； 因 为 他 们 困 苦 流 离 ， 如 同 羊 没 有 牧 人 一 般 Matt 5:3: Blessed are those who recognize they are spiritually helpless. The kingdom of heaven belongs to them. 馬 太 福 音 5:3: 虚 心 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 天 国 是 他 们 的 。(page 1563) 1 Cor 10:12-13: Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence. 歌 林 多 前 書 10:12,13: 因此，那些自认为站稳脚根的人要谨防跌倒。 你们所受到的诱惑与所有人类受到的是一样的。但是上帝是可信的。他不会让你们受到你们无法承受的诱惑，而是在你们受到诱惑时，给你们提供一条出路，好让你们抵住诱惑。pg 1859 Psalm 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 诗篇 46:1: 上帝是我们的避难所，是我们的力量，是我们患难中随时的帮助。( page 926) Isaiah 57:18-19: I have seen how they acted, but I will heal them. I will lead them and help them, and I will comfort those who mourn. I offer peace to all, both near and far! I will heal my people. 以赛亚书 57:18,19: "我看见了他们的所作所为，但我还是要医治他们，引领他们，使他们和那些哀伤的人得安慰， 使他们开口赞美。愿远近各方的人都得到平安！我要医治他们。这是耶和华说的。" (page1208) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/31/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e8106b76b56c275d541f20ea73511337.jpg 1f0469f996565e461a139c3c210b1b0a 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 2022 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. 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 Homecoming 2022 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/9bbb6eadd4bbf17991dbae594a102ea8.mp4 1742b23d85bcff46e1bf5aacd9757e92 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8787a0e86d2600f60fe4b65310c7eaa1.mp4 91dca853781450b0d9669b4b021fc2c6 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. 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 Church Building Bird Eye View Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 27, 2020 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/bb86e1b29969e52ffab495d4c50efcdd.jpeg b7790e132204afb3de2a7d897d77e18a https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c0f57548318ebde48b03e2399a0d192b.mp4 50c24a800a398305726f725f8facbee2 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 Finding HELP Hebrews 11:6 6 Million Dollar Man – “we can rebuild him. we can make him better.” Your body has 37 trillion cells. Think about that. 37 trillion cells in your body. In fact, you have 810,000 cells every second that are replacing themselves in your body. Just get your head around that for a second. 810,000 cells every second are being replaced. So, just while you've been listening to this, several million cells in your body have been replaced. Meaning something's dying and a new replacement is happening in your body. You're growing and changing all the time. Even though we don't feel it physically in our body, we are growing constantly replacing ourselves on a regular basis. Shouldn’t that that same thing should be happening in all the other areas of our life? Our lung tissue is regenerating, you know, every 8 days, our digestive tract every 4 days, we're producing all these new red blood cells every day, our entire skeletons replaced every 10 years, we don't replace ourselves with the next best version all the time. “You are constantly replacing yourselves” For better and for worse (sometimes) we are not the final product. We have the capacity for better. Regeneration. Neuroplasticity. Will we embrace the chance to rise above our current version of ourselves? Col 3:10: For you have acquired new creation life which is continually being renewed into the likeness of the One who created you; giving you the full revelation of God. Eph 1:11: Before we were even born, he gave us our destiny; that we would fulfill the plan of God who always accomplishes every purpose and plan in his heart. God has a plan for you and me… and He will help us overcome our obstacles so that we can achieve that plan. Today, we're continuing our journey through recovery principles with Hebrews 11:6: "It's impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him." Last week, we acknowledged: "I am powerless to control my own tendency to do the wrong thing—and my life is unmanageable." This week, we move to the second principle: "Earnestly believe that God exists and that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover." “I can quit any time I want” OK – so why don’t you “want” to? This transformation comes only through the Holy Spirit's work within us, and it requires genuine faith to open ourselves to this inner work. Jesus taught: "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule." We must first recognize our emptiness without God and how our lives become unmanageable when we don't lean on Him 1 Corinthians 10:12: So anyone who thinks they are standing strong should be careful that they don’t fall. The truth is, we ALL struggle with something. Every single one of us needs help in some area of our life. Matthew 9:36 tells us, "When He (Jesus) saw the crowds, He had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." As sheep without a shepherd, we must know where to look for help. We need to be desperately searching for our true Shepherd. “a heart of compassion” Matthew 5:4 says, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." All of us have broken areas in our lives—things that bring us grief and pain. These broken places can leave us devastated and hopeless at times. When we carry these hurts long enough without seeking help in the right places, we eventually find our identity in that pain and become victims. The victim mindset is a trap that leaves us seemingly powerless to change. And we will try to escape this pain in many harmful ways. Your escape may not be through drugs or alcohol, but perhaps through anger, overworking, blaming, or some other form of escape that may seem socially acceptable—or not. What you've done before this moment is no longer the issue—the opportunity is right before us to make new decisions and choices that will lead us to healing and an abundant new life. We can mourn our past mistakes and bad decisions—and maybe that pain is precisely what will point us to the truth. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Our mourning may lead us to comfort—and our current challenges just may be the antidote to our denial. Because if we live in denial—we are stuck. We NEED the antidote. If the smoke alarm goes off in your house, do you react or respond? When the pain alarm goes off in our life, do we react or respond? Where do we turn? Do we deal with the issue—or do we just cover it up? Understand—it is not GOD causing the pain—it is our current or past choices and situations that cause it. God loves us and wants to lead us out of our pain and into His healing. Take an honest assessment of yourself right now. How is your pain level? Will you allow God to open your eyes to what's really going on in your life? To deny the pain is to refuse God's power to help you recover. You will never find healing from your hurts, hang-ups, and habits until you confront your source of pain. How bad does it have to get before we look for a real solution? Remember this—if you could have handled that problem on your own, it wouldn't still be a problem. If you could handle it, you would have—but you can't, so you don't. Sometimes we play the blame game, excusing ourselves and accusing others for our pain and problems. We put the power for us to change into someone else's hands—a parent, spouse, friend, or coworker. B-LAME. Someone once said, "We're all self-made, but only the successful will admit it." Instead of denying your pain, allow it to motivate you to get help, to start making healing choices, to face the issue you've been ignoring for perhaps years. Don't refuse God's power to help you. As someone in recovery once said, "The acid of my pain finally ate through the wall of my denial." Choice 2 is made up of three magnificent truths about GOD: 1. He exists 2. I matter to Him 3. He has the power to help me Heb 11:6 (AMP): "But without faith it is impossible to walk with God and please Him, for whoever comes near to God must necessarily believe that God exists and that He rewards those who earnestly and diligently seek Him." **God Exists** Romans 1:20 tells us: "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." Where there is design, there must be a Designer. Where there is creation, there must be a Creator. **You Matter to Him** If you believe God exists, the next question is: "What kind of God is He? Do I really matter to Him?" Until we understand God's true character, we can't completely trust Him. ? Do you think no one knows or understands the struggle you are going through? God knows. He understands. And He cares. (are you mixing this with your faith?) 1 Cor 12:6: God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. Psalm 31:7 says, "I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul." Matt 6:8: "...your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask Him!" Psalm 34:18 assures us, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed." God is with you in your pain—and He is able to help you overcome your hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Psalm 56:8 tells us, "You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book." Psalm 103:13-14 says, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust." God's love for you is unconditional. **God Has the Power to Change You and Your Situation** Do you believe all of this is true? It's impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that He exists and that He cares enough to respond to those who seek Him. Paul prayed in Ephesians 1:18-20: "I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms." When we're plugged into God's Power, He supplies us with all we need. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." Today, we've explored the second principle: "Earnestly believe that God exists and that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover." I invite you to take this step of faith today. Why “wait” when we can “wake”? Stop focusing on the trivial while neglecting what truly matters. Ed Mylett: Three things are necessary for Change: Faith Intention Association Today… Believe: - that God exists - that you matter to Him - and that He has the Power to help you — today. This belief—this faith—is the gateway to transformation. It's the foundation upon which healing begins. As you leave today, I challenge you to take one action that demonstrates your belief in God's power to help you recover. Whether it's reaching out for support, beginning a conversation with God about your pain, or simply acknowledging that you can't do it alone — take that step. Remember, with less of you, there is more of God and His rule in your life. It is necessary for him to increase and for me to decrease. And that's where true healing begins. Today: “Earnestly believe that God exists and that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover.” Believe • that God exists • that you matter to Him and that He has the Power to help you – today “He loved us and gave Himself for us.” 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 Finding Help 寻得帮助 Description An account of the resource Heb 11:6 - And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. 希 伯 來 書 11:6: 没有信仰的人是不可能令上帝满意的，因为来到上帝面前的人必须相信上帝的存在，而且相信上帝能够报偿追求他的人。(page 1952) Romans 1:20: For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. 罗马书 1:20: 其实自从创世以来，　神那看不见的事，就如他永恒的大能和神性，都是看得见的，就是从他所造的万物中可以领悟，叫人没有办法推诿。(page 1822) Psalm 34:18: The LORD is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit. 诗篇 34:18: 祂安慰悲痛欲绝的人，拯救心灵破碎的人。(pg 912) Psalm 31:7: I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul. 诗篇 31:7: 你已经看见我的困苦，知道我心中的愁烦，你的恩慈使我欢喜快乐。(page 908) Matthew 5:4: Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 马太福音 5:4: 哀痛的人有福了，因为他们必得安慰。(page 1563) 2 Tim 1:7 - For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 提摩太后书 1:7: 因为上帝赐给我们的不是懦弱的心， 而是刚强、仁爱、自律的心。(page 1929) John 3:30: It is necessary for him to increase and for me to decrease.” 约翰福音 3:30: 祂必兴旺，我必衰微。 (page 1721) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/07/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/81016086cf8e62fc65870833e04ea67f.jpeg f045cab6aee635a117c6374be93a5e8e https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e1f54321b3427dc5d483756fe0238309.mp4 e4b9ce52b9f5207e7db8635726e5c0f2 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 2024 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 LOVE is Not Passive Hebrews 10:19-25 Maurice “Moe” Sill – he liked to call himself an “old hillbilly” but his life and legacy proved him to be an amazing man. A philanthropist. He served in the Peace Corps in India and Pakistan. He was an amateur pilot. He taught Rural Sociology at Marshall University. He married the daughter of a Russian Orthodox priest. He took her faith and made it his own. He and his wife settled into an Appalachian farm and on their farm built the first Orthodox church in Wayne County. Moe was a visionary, and wanted to build a community of faith right there in the middle of West Virginia coal country. In the late 1990s he donated his farmland to a group of Orthodox monks so they could build a monastery there (they had been displaced from their land in Missouri.) Moe lived to see the monastery grow and flourish. He witnessed the founding of a parish church in Wayne to help care for the families drawn to the area by the monastery. By the time he passed away in 2019, he could behold the fruit of his labors—the vibrant Appalachian Orthodoxy he envisioned all those years before. He was faithful, he persevered, and through his patience and foresight, and he left a legacy for his entire community. For some of you church members, this probably sounds a lot like the earlier generations of your family who helped establish this church. from the video, it describes a man named Charley Bradshaw, who lived on the farm decades before Mo and his wife. He built the log cabin that they first lived in when they bought the farm: “And when you live with hope for the future, you build things to last. That’s why Charles Golden Bradshaw’s chestnut log cabin still stands to this day, over 120 years since he built it back in the 1890s. It’s the oldest building on the grounds of our monastery. Charley Bradshaw lived here, he labored here, and he died here. They buried him at the top of the ridge. Like so many West Virginians before him, he left a legacy to his family by the sweat of his brow and the work of his hands.” …and now, here WE are. We’re laying a spiritual foundation for all future generations to experience the fullness of our Biblical Christian faith We serve God’s people with purpose – with Love – and Love is not passive. Mo Sill had what we have referred to before as a “Magnificent Obsession” Living and serving from a higher purpose – motivated by Love for God and Love for his fellow man. Gal 6:10 - Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Our love for God and for our brothers and sisters in Christ should cause love to empower us, by God’s grace (KEY) to serve and become more. To strive for excellence in all we commit our hands to . To raise the bar of possibility in 2024 To become more. John 13:34,35: (Jesus said) “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” This passage may be one of the most famous in the New Testament, and one of the most challenging. Love is the nature of God. By looking at Jesus and what he does, how he treats and responds to people, how, in the end, he sacrifices everything in order to save us from the slavery of sin and death, you get a real sense of what love is, and what it is that he is asking us to do with our lives. Jesus shows us what real love is about. It is about being attentive to the suffering and the needs of the other. It is about being willing to sacrifice your desires, even your needs, when you are confronted by the greater needs of another. This is true for our personal relationships, in our marriages, in our parenting, in our dealings with our neighbors, our co-workers, even those we do not know, who we encounter in various situations during our day, and, yes, even our enemies. The love that Jesus models is unconditional and merciful. At the same time, it is challenging and encouraging. It hates the sin, but loves the sinner. Romans 5:8: But God showed how much he loved us by having Christ die for us, even though we were sinful. This love is active, not passive. This morning’s scripture speaks to us directly in the 21st century church First of all, it reminds we have been made righteous because of Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross for us. And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. …and then, because of this, it tells us how we should step forward in faith now (second portion of today’s scripture) “Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” In our human thinking we don’t always feel worthy or qualified, but we must remind ourselves that He is the Vine – and we are the branches. We must move forward in faith. “Forward is not a place you are, it is a direction you go.” Accept the freedom that comes from Christ to live out that which has been placed inside of you. Remember – the anointing on your life is not for you – it for the people God has called you to serve. Love compels us to strive for excellence. “Early to bed and early to rise” has been a phrase I have heard my whole life. …but now it a reality. But it comes from desire – a magnificent obsession – to make a bigger impact. To become more. To serve more effectively. “They who have no central purpose in life fall an easy prey to petty worries.” I once heard a coworker humorously state, “Every day it’s the same thing – breathe , breathe, breathe.” We owe it to ourselves and everyone we are partnered with to become more than that. To have a magnificent obsession. To live from purpose and passion. It’s been said, “Love is not a passive state. It is an active force. It is the force of the soul.” Love is not passive. Kindness is not silence, and compassion is not quiet. Sometimes it means we raise our voices… The apostles gave all for the sake of the gospel. Paul said, (Phil 2:17 ) My life is being poured out as a part of the sacrifice and service I offer to God for your faith. Yet, I am filled with joy, and I share that joy with all of you. We can do this. He is the Vine - We are the branches 1 John 4:9: This is how God showed His love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. Strive for progress – not perfection He is the Vine - We are the branches Eph 3:20: Glory to God, who is able to do far beyond all that we could ask or imagine by his power at work within us; Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cx4dUXEWDkQ&amp;t=8s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cx4dUXEWDkQ&amp;t=8s</a> 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 Love is not Passive 爱不是被动的 Description An account of the resource Heb 10:19-25: And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. 希伯来书 10:19-25: 弟兄姊妹，耶稣已用宝血为我们开辟了一条又新又活的路，使我们可以穿过幔子，就是祂的身体，坦然进入至圣所。 并且，我们有一位大祭司管理上帝的家， 祂洁净了我们被罪困扰的良心，用清水洗净了我们的身体。因此，我们要信心十足、真诚地到上帝面前。 我们要坚定不移地持守我们所认定的盼望，因为赐应许的那位是信实的。 我们要想办法彼此相顾，激发爱心，勉励行善。 不要停止聚会，像那些停止惯了的人，要互相鼓励，特别是你们知道主再来的日子近了 (page 1951) John 13:34,35: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 约翰福音 13:35: 你们如果彼此相爱，世人就会认出你们是我的门徒。(page 1747) Eph 3:20: Glory to God, who is able to do far beyond all that we could ask or imagine by his power at work within us; 以弗所书 3:20: 上帝的能力运行在我们里面，能够丰丰富富地成就一切，超过我们所求所想的。(page 1897) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor Mike Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/07/2024 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/1730a2e0cd537630fc69d2ea65b1f683.jpeg 7d3070115f7c2967e6a89f89d9c24f65 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 2023 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound A New Year – A New Heart - 2023 John 8:31, 32 “A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you.” —Ezekiel 36:26 Last Sunday I told Eddie I really felt the Lord was about to do something brand new for us (our church) in 2023. I know for God to do a new thing, we have to be open and receptive to it… to put away our presumptions and limitations. Are we ready? Are we teachable? Are we ready to grow in our faith? Was there ever a time in your childhood when you thought you had already learned it all? That you knew it all – that you had it all figured out? Is anybody honest? ;) 1 Peter 2:2 – “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation.” I can look back on my Christian life and shudder to think that I might have considered myself “taught” by the time I was 12 or 14… because I was pretty much hearing the same message again and again. It was a good foundational message, but there was a whole lot more Bible left to hear about. Heb 6:1: Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity What if I had been exposed to deeper scriptural truths at that time, (meat) but these teachings were hard to digest… If what I heard hadn’t lined up with what I had been taught up to that point, I might have just thrown up a wall and rejected any additional truth. Jesus: "Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given--and you will receive even more.” Everyone starts at the start… but what we do after that is also very important. Jesus said, “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” • There is an “if” and a “then” in this scripture – a conditional promise of blessing. • What will we choose to do with the Word GOD has given us? • What will we choose to do with the New Covenant? • The Truth won’t set you free if you don’t know it. It’s NOW 2023. What do we do now? We must continue. On Day One of the Christian Era (New Covenant) these brand new Christians woke up to a new world. Everything had changed… or had it? In their minds, they were still entrenched with generations upon generations of Law and Old Covenant practices. Peter, John and Luke (and later, Paul) hadn’t written their books yet… Revelation, for the most part, was still ahead for them. They weren’t instantly walking in New Covenant understanding and provision They were, however, after Pentecost, walking in a fresh and mighty Holy Spirit anointing of Power and Holy Fire from heaven. They had been charged and equipped by Jesus to go and do the works that He had told them to do. “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received!” (Matt 10:8) “they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (Mark 16:18) Because just ‘cause we don’t know everything (yet) doesn’t mean we wait until we do. (we’d sure be waiting a long time, wouldn’t we?) …but if we follow Jesus’ charge to us and continue in His Word… If we seek first the Kingdom of God… …we will know the truth… and all things will be added unto us. Jesus: "Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given--and you will receive even more.” According to your faith it is done unto you – so it is vitally important what you believe. Wrong believing will bring about wrong results. …because your faith will be looking for (expecting) the wrong outcomes. ? Is there room in our hearts for God’s Word to be further revealed to us? John 8:37 “ …some of you are trying to kill me because my message does not find a home within your hearts.” “…because you have no room for my word.” (vs 47) “If I am speaking the truth, why is it that you do not believe me? The man who is born of God can hear these words of God and the reason why you cannot hear the words of God is simply this, that you are not the sons of God.” It’s difficult (impossible) for someone to ask for God’s help if they don’t fully realize GOD loves them and desires to give good things to them. (God’s Will) (This is the confidence….) You wouldn’t feel safe coming to a God who just might put bad things on you. But we have a loving Heavenly Father… ABBA Matt 7:11 – “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Luke 12:32 - "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.” “Seek ye first the Kingdom of GOD…” So many scriptures that tell of His great love for us. “For God so loved the world…” He gave us Jesus – He sent Jesus to do what? What is our 4-word creed? “Jesus Paid It All” God sent Jesus to pay it all for you and me. Jesus paid it all – paid in full. Sealed in His Royal Blood for us. “If you continue in my word…” Jesus paid it all. It is paid in full. …but you have to know that. You have to continue in that Truth. The Word of God is a lifelong study that leads to abundant life. His Words are life. “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” In Him was Life and that Life was the Light of men. You have to seek that which Jesus paid such an awesome price for us to benefit from. “To Don’ts” for 2023 1. Don’t look to the past to create your future 2. Don’t hold any grudges or unforgiveness in your heart (you don’t need that extra weight going into a new year) 3. Don’t limit God by your past doubt & unbelief. What will you do with the truth you have received? “Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them." “Free to Dance” This song in my heart, this song in my soul This song I was born to sing It's Your song of freedom, now I'm free to dance again I'll sing in the darkness, I'll laugh in the rain Rejoice in Your love again It's Your song of freedom, now I'm free to dance again Your Spirit brings me liberty Your breath of life has set me free Jesus, Your love, it lifts me high Gives me reason to run the race with joy This song within me, Lord, will bless Your Holy name Jesus, I'll dance before Your throne Bring this heavenly sound to You alone This song within me. Lord, will bless Your Holy name This song in my heart, this song in my soul This song I was born to sing It's Your song of freedom, now I'm free to dance again “You are reasonable people. Decide for yourselves if what I am saying is true. When we bless the cup at the Lord’s Table, aren’t we sharing in the blood of Christ? And when we break the bread, aren’t we sharing in the body of Christ?” ~ 1 Cor 10: 15,16 Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO1p6eZvFV0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO1p6eZvFV0</a> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource A New Year – A New Heart 新年 新心 Description An account of the resource John 8:31,31: To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 約 翰 福 音 8:31,32: 耶稣对信仰了他的犹太人说∶“你们如果遵守我的教导，就真正是我的门徒了。 你们会认识真理，而真理将使你们获得自由。” (page 1734) 1 Peter 2:2 – “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation.” 彼得前书 2:2: 像初生婴孩爱慕那纯净的灵奶，好叫你们靠它长大，进入救恩 (page 1966) John 8:47: “If I am speaking the truth, why is it that you do not believe me? The man who is born of God can hear these words of God and the reason why you cannot hear the words of God is simply this, that you are not the sons of God.” 約 翰 福 音 8:47: 属于上帝的人，听上帝的话。这是你们不听的原因：因为你们不是属于上帝的人 (page 1735) Matt 7:11 – “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” 馬 太 福 音 7:11: 你们虽然邪恶，但是还知道如何把好东西给自己的孩子，那么，你们的天父肯定会把好东西给那些向他请求的人们了！ (page 1735) Luke 12:32 - "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.” 路 加 福 音 12:32: 你 们 这 小 群 ， 不 要 惧 怕 ， 因 为 你 们 的 父 乐 意 把 国 赐 给 你 们 。 (page 1735) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor Mike Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/01/2023 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8e12fe34e20914f5e2838de1ca60234f.jpeg c349d3ed0b0408576dabd2a41546888f 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 2023 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 Gratitude 2023 Luke 2:10 The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. See! I bring you good news of great joy which is for all people. The Automat. Served ALL people. Quality at a low price This business plan clearly arose from a desire to contribute. To give back. As we prepare for a brand-new year, it is good to recognize all of God’s blessings from this past year. It wasn’t perfect, but it had its moments. We know even in adversity we can discover the treasures that lead to our growth, strength, and often times, a much better life. 1 Thess 5:18 - Give thanks in every situation because this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Pastor at the Methodist Church: “Thank You, GOD, for the Gift of Life.” Gratitude is an awareness of just how really and truly blessed we are. It is also looking beyond those things that are not yet “perfect” Gratitude should be demonstrated in our lives through: Contribution “If you wake up deciding what you want to give versus what you’re going to get…” Being “Blessed to BE a Blessing” Living by example Becoming the ONE Refusing to take your foot off the gas Let this revelation become our seed of highest resolve. To share. To give back from a heart of true gratitude for the gift of salvation made available to ALL people. The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. See! I bring you good news of great joy which is for all people. Be thankful today that GOD allows our eyes to be opened and our ears to hear the gospel so that we may be saved – healed and restored. Jesus (John 6:44) "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them” Romans 10:14: But how can they call on Him if they have not put their trust in Him? And how can they put their trust in Him if they have not heard of Him? And how can they hear of Him unless someone tells them? Jesus: (Matt 24:14 ) And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. Today we can be thankful that God’s Grace has given us this crucial hour together to receive from Him so that we can share this message with others. Psalm 118:29 Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever." Having a Thankful heart gives us the chance we need to make a real change – the change we need in order to find true satisfaction in life. To go from being just a receiver into a true Giver. The desire to give of ourselves is a God-given desire. The opposite is a selfish, carnal attitude. A withholder. Prov 11:24 - One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. Our hearts need to open to the joy of thankfulness – and giving The Prayer of St Francis: O divine master grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console to be understood as to understand To be loved as to love For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned And it's in dying that we are born to eternal life So many people are only looking for love to be poured out on them – without considering they need to first plant the seed of love from their own heart We go from taking love to giving love Prov 11:24 - One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. The “takers” – the “witholders” attitude always reflects lack. The heart of a giver will set you free from the chains of attachment and codependence. God’s Word is our guide in life. His Word shows us what we need to change – and even how to do it! Don’t ever be discouraged when the Word shows you an area in your life that needs and upgrade. That is actually a very good thing to see. If we don’t recognize the need to change we would never work toward making the necessary changes. In your moment of clarity and recognition – you are then on the verge of personal growth and breakthrough. Yes – it is true that the things we see that need changing in others should pretty much be a sign of what also needs to be changed in us. Humility is required. ;) If you’re unhappy today, you’re probably not viewing your life from a perspective of gratitude. There’s an incompleteness that comes because of a perspective of lack Gratitude enhances our clarity. Gratitude instantly prioritizes our options so that we can focus on the right things. The fastest way out of overwhelm is to focus on what really matters – and all the things you have to be grateful for in this very moment. Invest your energy and attention there. Confusion is a state brought on by a lack of gratitude. If you want your life to make more sense, begin with a list of what you’re grateful for. Opportunities flow from clarity. Gratitude keeps us in the Present Moment Being Grateful: Gets our eyes off ourselves, and helps us to focus back on God. It reminds us that we are not in control, but that we serve a Mighty God who is. It keeps us in a place of humility and dependency on Him, as we recognize how much we need Him. Psalm 100:4,5 - "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” You can’t really enter into the deeper Presence of God without a truly thankful heart. Be thankful for being your age. Many people never got that chance. "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” Can you offer up a thankful prayer to your Father today? Acknowledging all He’s done for you – even in the midst of your storm? A true "Thank You" prayer acknowledges God's will concerning us. It releases His power to flow into our situations. Gratitude IS the Law of Attraction in Action Gratitude is a very powerful focusing tool. When we are grateful, our thoughts simply cannot be on something that we don’t want more of in our lives. Our grateful hearts open us up to the blessings of God to flow through us. Col 2:7 - "Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_NZw6rnkwI">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_NZw6rnkwI</a> 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 GRATITUDE 感激 Description An account of the resource Luke 2:10: But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 路 加 福 音 2:10: 天使对他们说∶“不要害怕，我给你们带来了好消息。这个消息也将给普天下的人们带来极大的喜悦。(pg 1658) 1 Thess 5:18 - Give thanks in every situation because this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 帖撒罗尼迦前书 5:18: 凡事谢恩，因为这是上帝在基督耶稣里给你们的旨意。(page 1918) Romans 10:14: But how can they call on Him if they have not put their trust in Him? And how can they put their trust in Him if they have not heard of Him? And how can they hear of Him unless someone tells them? 罗马书 10:14: 可是，人还没信祂，怎能求告祂呢？还没听说过祂，怎能信祂呢？没有人传道，怎能听说过祂呢？(page 1836) Matt 24:14: And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. 马太福音 24:14: 这天国的福音将传遍天下，让万民都听见，然后末日才会来临。(page 1603) Psalm 118:29 Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever. 诗篇 118:29: 你们要称谢耶和华，因为祂是美善的，祂的慈爱永远长存。(page 1003) Col 2:7 - Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. 歌罗西书 2:7: 按照你们所受的教导在祂里面扎根成长，信心坚固，满怀感恩 (page 1910) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor Mike Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/08/2022 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 2024 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 By Grace Alone Titus 3:3-5 Ripley’s Believe It Or Not There was a time – many decades ago – when going to the gym was a daily part of my routine. Not just the treadmill, either. The iron plates! The usual crowd was there most days – and since we knew each other, we worked out together – spotting each other at the bench press, etc. More than once during this time period, I would get to the point that I needed help getting the heavy weights off my chest. I just couldn’t push them off of me and onto the rack all by myself. If I didn’t ask for help, I wasn’t going anywhere. The weight would only get heavier. There are situations in all of our lives where we can’t take care of things all by ourselves. The burden just gets too heavy. Like the burden of our sins. as Step 2 of the Twelve Steps describes it, “We came to be aware that a Power greater than ourselves”… was necessary. U2: “Sometimes you can’t make it on your own” Tough. You think you've got the stuff You're telling me and anyone - You're “hard enough” You don't have to put up a fight - You don't have to always be right Listen to me now - I need to let you know - You don't have to go it alone. Trying to bench press too much weight and discovering that you are trapped by your own denial of human limitations – is a lot like what we do when we try to live a victorious life under our own power. PRIDE could have kept me trapped under those heavy weights… how would that have ended? (what if I had been all alone in that gym?) As long as you’re running away, you’re going to miss the greatness God put in you. You can’t conquer what you don’t confront. Too often we’re comforting what we should be confronting. We’re making lists of excuses. But you can’t run from everything that’s uncomfortable. You can’t ignore issues, sweep them under the rug, and think they’ll go away. When you get honest with yourself, when you confront what you know you need to deal with, it may be uncomfortable, but God gives you the grace, the strength, and the power to do what you couldn’t do on your own. THIS is why Jesus came. This is why He shed His blood. THIS is why He died on that cross. For you and for me. Revelation: If I preach anything less that our complete and total redemption because of Christ alone, I am not truly preaching the cross – and therefore, not preaching the truth. “ …he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.” Today’s Message is entitled: By Grace Alone. My purpose for this message is to instill in a deeper way the truth that we are saved by grace through faith, and not of works. We can never earn our salvation. It is a gift. (Eph 2:8) A gift we should receive with gratitude and humility. Wesley: “It is strange that any whom he has actually saved should doubt the universality of his grace!” “We allow, it is the work of God alone to justify, to sanctify, and to glorify; which three comprehend the whole of salvation.” “I believe justification by faith alone, as much as I believe there is a God…I have never varied from it, no, not a hair’s breadth from 1738 to this day.” “Taking the word in a more particular sense, faith is a divine evidence and conviction, not only that ‘God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself,’ but also that Christ ‘loved me, and gave himself for me.'” Martin Luther: "We do not become righteous by doing righteous deeds but, having been made righteous, we do righteous deeds." R.C. Sproul: "The whole basis for our relationship with God is rooted and grounded in grace, that which is not earned." Anyone who has shared the gospel with others has discovered people who said things like, “I try to live a good life.” “I hope my good outweighs my bad.” They think they can push off that weight (and debt) of sin under their own power. Here is an illustration of Salvation through Grace by Faith, as illustrated by Jesus: Luke 18:9-14 (read) The publican goes to heaven not because he is special but because he is shown mercy by God through receiving the redemption of Christ the Savior. A sinner does not need to pay any cost to go to heaven because the Lord Jesus has paid everything on the cross. The Pharisee perishes because he does not have the Savior, whereas the publican is saved because he has the Savior. Like that Pharisee, PRIDE can keep you buried under those heavy weights… Pride can keep you lost. Pride can keep you bound. “That’s just the way I am” If you argue for your limitations, you get to keep them. God sent us a savior because we needed to be saved Watchman Nee: Salvation is the free gift of God, and it is freely given to all sinners who believe. “In summary, you who are good men, do not boast in yourselves, for your good cannot save you. And you who are bad men, do not be discouraged, for your bad may not be your condemnation. Praise and thank God, how wonderful is His salvation! Though we all are like the publican, being hopeless and helpless sinners who deserve eternal punishment, God nevertheless has caused the Lord Jesus to die on the cross for us that we may be saved by believing and accepting Him as our Savior. What amazing grace this is! Let the sinners follow in the steps of the publican. Come to God, confess your sins, and ask Him in faith, saying: “God, be merciful to me a sinner, for the Lord Jesus has indeed died on the cross for me.” God will save you. Thank Him for His so great salvation.” Straight is the Gate Matt 7:14: But the gate that opens the way to true life is narrow. And the road that leads there is hard to follow. Only a few people find it. John 3:36 - “He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life; but he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him” This grace not only saves us, but also empowers us to live the Godly life we wanted to live: Titus 3:8: This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone. John 5:24: “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” Rev 22:17: The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. 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 By Grace Alone 恩典 Description An account of the resource Titus 3:5: He saved us because of his mercy, and not because of any good things we have done. God washed us by the power of the Holy Spirit. He gave us new birth and a fresh beginning. 提 多 書 3:5: 他拯救了我们，不是因为我们的行为，而是靠他的怜悯、重生的洗礼和使我们更新的圣灵。(page 1936) Matt 7:14: But the gate that opens the way to true life is narrow. And the road that leads there is hard to follow. Only a few people find it. 馬 太 福 音 7:14: 但是，通向永生的门是非常窄小和艰难的，只有极少数的人才能找到它。(page 1568) John 3:36 - “He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life; but he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him” 约翰福音 3:36: 信子的人有永生；不信子的人得不到永生，上帝的烈怒常在他身上 (page 1721) John 5:24: “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” 约翰福音 5:24:“我实实在在地告诉你们，谁听从我的话，又信差我来的那位，谁就有永生，不被定罪，已经出死入生了。(pg 1725) Rev 22:17: The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. 啟 示 錄 22:17: 啟 示 錄 22:17: 圣灵和新娘说∶“来！”愿听到的人都说∶“来！”愿口渴的人都过来。愿任何想得到赋予生命的泉水的人，都无偿地得到它。 (page 2017) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/14/2024 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 2024 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 Love Connection 2 Timothy 3:1-5 A new year should be a great opportunity to pursue new things – or at least, live from a new, fresh perspective. A perspective of gratitude – humility – and most of all, love. Love for God. Love for His people. Today’s Scripture: You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! “in the last days…” – doesn’t this sound exactly like the days we are living in now? A young child lives from the self-centered perspective. “Mine.” It’s basically a survival mechanism – but it needs to be something we grow out of. In 2024, we see a large percentage of our population is still living under that same immature selfishness. Mine! It is really a form of fear. A fear of lack. Of inadequacy. Paul said: (1 Cor 13:11) When I was a child, I spoke like a child. I thought like a child. I understood like a child. Now I am a man. I do not act like a child anymore. Where does hoarding come from? Clinging. It is Fear. In this first month of a new year, it is a great opportunity to clear away the clutter caused by fear and selfishness and step into a new day of freedom, of liberation, of LOVE. Ecc 3:6 - A time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; Last week we talked about two paths in life – a wide path and a narrow path. One led to destruction – and one to eternal life. When the world looks at us, do they see us following the path of Christ – or living just like they are (as described in today’s scripture lesson?) Is our heart full of clutter today? (Jesus said) Mark 4:19 - But the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. “But you need to be aware that in the final days the culture of society will become extremely fierce. People will be self-centered lovers of themselves and obsessed with money. They will boast of great things as they strut around in their arrogant pride and mock all that is right. They will ignore their own families. They will be ungrateful and ungodly. They will become addicted to hateful and malicious slander. Slaves to their desires, they will be ferocious, belligerent haters of what is good and right. With brutal treachery, they will act without restraint, bigoted and wrapped in clouds of their conceit. They will find their delight in the pleasures of this world more than the pleasures of the loving God. They may pretend to have a respect for God, but in reality they want nothing to do with God’s power. Stay away from people like these!” WE are not supposed to BE like these people – we’re not even supposed to hang out with them! When we live like this, we are like the dog chasing its own tail. It never achieves its goal. It is a fruitless effort. Examine your own heart. “It starts with me” 1 John 4:7: Those who are loved by God, let his love continually pour from you to one another, because God is love. Everyone who loves is fathered by God and experiences an intimate knowledge of him. We ALL know that when we act from love - - when we focus on contribution – our lives are happier. “Let us love one another.” It is a tough challenge sometimes. Our foundation is our salvation. 1 John 4:19: Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. Spurgeon: “Love is the cause of love.” 1 John 4:8: Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. Word of Caution: Today is a day for us to hear God’s Word with new ears. (don’t miss your moment) ? How can we possibly gain a fresh perspective without first being open-hearted to what Holy Spirit wants to tell us today? New Wine goes in New Wineskins. (amen?) So – let’s get back to the purpose of this message - and our mission for 2024: We need to un-clutter our hearts. Uncluttering our hearts will unclutter our lives 1 Cor 14:33 - For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. One of the Desert Fathers: “It’s not possessing something that is harmful, but being attached to it” Jesus: “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:15: Then He (Jesus) said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Clinging is a symptom of deep-rooted fear of some kind. (whether it is clinging to things, status, approval or false security) Can we approach this shift – this radical transition - with confidence? Can this new start now begin – and then continued? 1 John 4:18: Perfect love cast out fear It starts with me. It starts with repentance of my own fears – my own selfishness – my own clinging. My own need to fill the empty places with the things that fade and disappear. “ …in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. …reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God.” WE must BE the Change Believe and Live by Jesus’ Commands Matt 22:34-40: Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 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.” (another version) Jesus answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and most important command. And the second command is like the first: ‘Love your neighbor the same as you love yourself.’ If we live by Jesus’ commands, we will, by default, seek to unclutter our hearts of anything that would block the flow of God’s love in and through us. “Those who are loved by God, let his love continually pour from you to one another, because God is love. Everyone who loves is fathered by God and experiences an intimate knowledge of him” The behaviors we read about today in our opening scripture passage describe the type of lifestyle that is the exact opposite of living by Jesus’ commands: “self-centered lovers of themselves and obsessed with money. arrogant pride and mock all that is right. They will ignore their own families. They will be ungrateful and ungodly. They will become addicted to hateful and malicious slander. Slaves to their desires haters of what is good and right. They will find their delight in the pleasures of this world more than the pleasures of the loving God.” John 13:34,35: “I’m giving you a new commandment: Love each other in the same way that I have loved you. Everyone will know that you are my disciples because of your love for each other.” “So I give you now a new commandment: Love each other just as much as I have loved you. For when you demonstrate the same love I have for you by loving one another, everyone will know that you’re my true followers.” An uncluttered heart can see the world with a whole new set of eyes Those who are loved by God, let his love continually pour from you to one another, because God is love. 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 Love Connection 爱之纽带 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/21/2024 Description An account of the resource 2 Timothy 3:1-5: But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. 提 摩 太 後 書 3:1-5: 你要知道，在最后的日子里，困难的时刻会降临在我们身上。 那时人们会自私、贪婪、自夸、骄傲、亵渎圣灵，不孝敬父母、不善良、没有信仰、 不互爱、不宽恕人、造谣诽谤、缺乏自制、野蛮、嫉善如仇， 他们出卖朋友、鲁莽、骄傲自满、爱享乐胜过爱上帝。 他们披着宗教的外衣，但是却否认它的权力。要离他们远远的 (page 1931) Mark 4:19 - But the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.馬 可 福 音 4:19: 但却让现世的烦恼、财富的诱惑和其它的欲望膨胀，窒息了福音，而无结果。(page 1623) 1 John 4:7: Those who are loved by God, let his love continually pour from you to one another, because God is love. Everyone who loves is fathered by God and experiences an intimate knowledge of him. 約 翰 一 書 4:7: 亲爱的朋友们，让我们彼此相爱吧。因为爱来自上帝，有爱的人就是上帝的孩子，也认识上帝。(page 1981) 1 John 4:19: Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. 約 翰 一 書 4:19: 我们爱，是因为上帝先爱我们。(pg 1981) John 13:34,35: “I’m giving you a new commandment: Love each other in the same way that I have loved you.” 約 翰 福 音 13:34: 我给你们一条新的命令：你们要彼此相爱。就像我爱你们一样，你们也要彼此互爱。(page 1747) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor Mike