5 10 95 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/da653b15691bf3f4feb95d23a387d561.png 207ddfe723698df3273efb4fc392b299 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/85e9bb8f609fd94ec0e2531551dae706.mp4 de377d1db648b97602b1a3130bd89add 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 Staying Full of God: Guarding the Heart from Spiritual Dulling Romans 1:21 There's a small glass jar in my prayer area that holds a candle. When the candle was new, the flame burned bright - warm, clean, steady. But over time, something began to happen. Not suddenly... but slowly. A thin film of soot began to coat the glass. At first, you could hardly notice it. The flame was still there - still burning - but its light didn't shine through the way it used to. As the days went by, the glass grew darker. Nothing was wrong with the flame itself... but the film around it kept thickening - dimming the glow, muting the warmth, obscuring the brightness. One day, I finally wiped the glass clean. And immediately - without adding wax, or oxygen, or fuel - the flame looked brighter. Nothing new had been added. Nothing had changed about the flame. The only thing that changed... was removing what had built up around it. "Most believers don't lose the flame - they lose the clarity." "You may carry the Spirit, but does the Spirit carry you?" Not because the Spirit left... but because the heart grew coated - slowly - over time. And that is exactly what Romans 1:21 describes: "For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened." This is a message for those with hungry hearts today. Hungry for more. Hungry for a closer walk with God. Advent Week One is HOPE. Let our Hope be in a greater revelation of Jesus today. Jesus said: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matt 5:6) > Let’s break this down by each of its parts… 1. (For though they knew God )“They did not glorify Him as God” To glorify God means to magnify Him — to make Him bigger in our hearts than anything else. Whatever you focus on, you magnify. Heb 10:38: “ …but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” “Faith is the positive response to what God has already given you by grace.” When we stop glorifying (magnifying) God: - problems grow larger - fears grow louder - emotions sit on the throne But when we deliberately magnify Him: - faith rises - clarity returns - His presence fills our awareness Psalm 35:27: “Let the LORD be magnified who hath pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.” Start each day by exalting God before examining circumstances. Psalm 145:18: The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. 2. For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. The second step downward is ingratitude. (not being grateful) Gratitude is the retaining wall that keeps revelation from leaking out of the heart. Ingratitude: - Shrinks our awareness of grace - Feeds disappointment Thanksgiving: - Sensitizes the heart - Anchors joy 1 Thess 5:18: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. When we thank God IN everything, and our hearts stay tender toward Him. 3. “They became vain in their imaginations” “they entertained corrupt and foolish thoughts about what God was like.” Once God is no longer magnified and gratitude fades, the mind begins to drift. “Vain imaginations” means: - letting thoughts go unchecked - meditating on worst-case scenarios - picturing defeat instead of promise We don’t have to surrender to this fate – we were called to fight it - victoriously 2 Cor 10:5: We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ… Andrew Wommack says “The imagination is ‘the womb of the heart’ — whatever you dwell on in-ternally is birthed ex-ternally.” “out of the abundance of the heart” If I turn on the DVD player to watch “Platoon” and instead it’s some lame movie called “The Notebook” – what went wrong? What movie are we replaying in our minds? Replace mental movies of fear with pictures of God’s faithfulness. 4. “Their foolish heart was darkened” “This left them with nothing but misguided hearts, steeped in moral darkness.” The final step is not intellectual darkness — it is heart darkness. A darkened heart: - loses spiritual sensitivity - stops recognizing God’s voice - feels far from God 1 Sam 16:7: Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. When God looks into our hearts, what does He find? Jesus said ( Matt 6:21 ) “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” A heart that was set on serving God and hearing His voice can slowly drift away by the distractions of this world. Heb 2:1: So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. But here’s the hope: If decline has four steps, restoration has four steps in reverse: 1. Glorify Him 2. Give Thanks 3. Sanctify Imagination 4. Heart Enlightened This is how we stay full of God. Maybe you haven’t rebelled. Maybe you haven’t drifted morally. …But maybe you’ve gone dim inside. Today, God invites you to: - glorify Him again - give thanks again - renew your minds (imagination) again - let your heart brighten again You don’t need a breakthrough — you need a return to awareness. Prayer Lord, I magnify You above every distraction, fear, and circumstance. Thank You for Your goodness, Your presence, Your faithfulness in my life. Purify my imagination and align it with Your promises. Enlighten my heart again. Keep me full of You — tender, awake, aware, and responsive. Amen. Hosea 6:3: Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” 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 FULL 充满 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/30/2025 Description An account of the resource Romans 1:21: For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened." 羅 馬 書 1:21: 因 为 ， 他 们 虽 然 知 道 神 ， 却 不 当 作 神 荣 耀 他 ， 也 不 感 谢 他 。 他 们 的 思 念 变 为 虚 妄 ， 无 知 的 心 就 昏 暗 了 。(page 1822) Psalm 145:18: The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." 詩 篇 145:18: 凡 求 告 耶 和 华 的 ， 就 是 诚 心 求 告 他 的 ， 耶 和 华 便 与 他 们 相 近 。 (page 1028) 1 Thessalonians 5:18: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 帖 撒 羅 尼 迦 前 書 5:18: 凡 事 谢 恩 ； 因 为 这 是 神 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 向 你 们 所 定 的 旨 意 。 (page 1918) 2 Corinthians 10:5: We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ..." 歌 林 多 後 書 10:5: 摧毁一切抬高自己、对抗上帝知识的高傲障碍。我们要俘虏每一种思想，使它们降服于基督。(page 1880) Matthew 6:21: For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." 馬 太 福 音 6:21: 你们的财宝在哪里，你们的心也会在那里。 (page 1567) Heb 2:1: So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 希 伯 來 書 2:1: 因此，我们必须更加注意我们所听到的那些事情（真理）(page 1940) 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/4fb9ba01b6fa03a205a3a94944bc2ac7.jpg 936ea96b8b2f93568ca8f9ba2c033eda https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/efe34bf73c64a40d2f00d275dad2db02.mp4 64d1e55959807f2b4ece63452c6a5cc7 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 God's Light Shines: Finding Faith in Uncertain Times 1 John 1:5: "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." (America. England. Africa) What a week it has been. The new week brings more of the same surprises, although some will be more surprised than others. The days of uncertainty continue, nonetheless. In a moment of overwhelm, I prayed, "Let Your Light shine over this nation. Show Yourself mighty against the powers of darkness." This is all about your freedom – and your faith. (it’s also about WORSHIP) Do you realize that God is not surprised by anything that is happening - nor by what has been happening? While we may feel shaken, God's light continues to shine even in our darkest moments. Once your eyes are opened, you will never see the world the same again. Today, I invite you to see beyond what appears on the surface and discover how God's light can transform our perspective in these challenging times. It's time to redefine what we are currently experiencing. Jesus said, “Be careful what you hear.” What we see on the surface are only those things revealed on the surface. But beneath our feelings of powerlessness, confusion, and anxiety lies a deeper spiritual need. When things don't fall into place as we think they should, it's easy—it's human—to get rattled. We see the rage of angry mobs fighting against law and order in our cities. We hear the lies of those who say, “Good is evil” and “Evil is Good.” We witness division and darkness seemingly gaining ground. We might ask ourselves, "How do I respond to situations I cannot control?" Our challenge isn't merely external circumstances but maintaining proper faith alignment in the midst of them. As Ephesians 4 reminds us: "Don't let the passion of your emotions lead you to sin! Don't let anger control you or be fuel for revenge, not for even a day." It's okay to feel these emotions, “be angry and sin not,” but we must redirect that emotional fire to something we can change—ourselves. Jesus declared in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Because there IS darkness, we must be LIGHT God offers us a three-part solution to navigate these uncertain times: First, "Be Still and Know." Psalm 46:10 tells us, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." In stillness, we create space to hear God's voice even in our storms. Second, Focus on Today. As Jesus taught in Matthew 6:34, "So don't worry about tomorrow. Each day has enough trouble of its own." By focusing on the present, we can manage what's before us rather than being overwhelmed by what might come. Third, Receive and Extend Grace. Daily Grace—both receiving it from God and extending it to others—transforms how we experience our circumstances. As Psalm 86:11 guides us: "Teach me your way, LORD, and I will live by your truth. Give me an undivided mind to fear your name." In Christ, we are not power-less; we are power-full. Colossians 2:9-10 reminds us: "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority." Imagine what could happen if we truly embraced our identity as light-bearers in this dark world. We are called to "come out from among them" (2 Corinthians 6:17) — to BE the LIGHT. James 1:27 describes true religion as "making a difference in the lives of the orphans and widows in their troubles, and refusing to be corrupted by the world's values." Sadly, many are shaped by whatever the TV and the internet tell them. It tells them how to feel… and even who to hate. “Be careful what you hear” 2 Tim 3:3 tells us in the last days, people “ …will be cruel and hate what is good.” ( ) "come out from among them" Picture a community of Believers who, no matter which way the wind blows, adjust their sails to keep moving in God's direction. We must operate from a Biblical mindset. Both faith and fear require the belief in something unseen. We make the choice. Fear is not the absence of faith – it is a faith in the lies of the enemy. Power, Love and Self-Discipline Believers who are proactive, who take the Kingdom by faith and by force. “HE breaks the power of cancelled sin, HE sets the prisoner free…” Envision yourself asking in every situation: "How can I use this? What is good about this situation?" Remember how sometimes what seemed like the worst thing becomes the stepping stone for new to happen—like our church going online back in 2020. One door closes, another opens. See yourself living in the promise of Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Every detail of your life continually woven together to fit into God's perfect plan of bringing good into your life. #GoodThings ? How do we move forward as light-bearers in a darkened world? Practical Steps to Shine God's Light I challenge you to take these specific steps this week: 1. Practice stillness daily. Set aside 10 minutes each day to "be still and know" God's presence. Turn off distractions and simply listen. 2. Reframe your challenges. When facing difficulties, actively ask: "How can I use this? What is the gift hidden in this struggle?" 3. Live one day at a time. Focus on today's tasks and leave tomorrow's worries for tomorrow. 4. Extend grace intentionally. Identify one person who needs grace and reach out to them this week. 5. Praise God in your storm. Begin each morning by declaring God's goodness despite your circumstances. 6. Adjust your perspective. When tempted to complain, remember that "our worst day is often better than someone else's best day." (driving home from Charge Conference) 7. Draw on divine power. Claim 2 Peter 1:3: "His divine power has bestowed on us absolutely everything necessary for a dynamic spiritual life and godliness." As we close, remember that our first priority is to be Disciples of Christ. Matthew 16:24-25 challenges us: "If any of you want to be my follower, you must stop thinking about yourself and what you want. You must be willing to carry the cross that is given to you for following me." In Christ, we find both rest and strength. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30). His mercies for you and me are new every morning, and so, too, is His strength. Psalm 46:1 assures us: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." ? Are you mourning for what you've been through—or are you preparing for what's to come? As Romans 8:37 declares, "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." God's light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. KEY: We must BELIEVE we ARE Light Bearers ( ) Light-Bearers that may sometimes be in a dark place that needs the LIGHT. John 1:9: Jesus is “the Pefect LIGHT of TRUTH” Matt 5:14: (Jesus) “You are the light of the world.” Let us be bearers of that light in our homes, our community, and our world. Amen. Father, fill me with the boldness and power of Your Spirit. Help me walk in the authority Jesus gave to break every chain of darkness. Let Your kingdom be revealed through my life as freedom, healing, and deliverance flow. May every work of the enemy bow to the 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 God’s Light Still Shines 上帝的光仍然照耀着 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/12/2025 Description An account of the resource 1 John 1: 5: This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 約 翰 一 書 1:5: 这是我们从耶稣基督那里听到的信息，现在我们把它告诉给你们∶上帝是光（善良），在他之中没有黑暗（罪）(page 1977) Eph 4:31,32 - Lay aside bitter words, temper tantrums, revenge, profanity, and insults. But instead be kind and affectionate toward one another. Has God graciously forgiven you? Then graciously forgive one another in the depths of Christ’s love. 以弗所书 4:31,32: 一切苛刻、恼怒、暴戾、嚷闹、毁谤，连同一切恶毒，都应当从你们中间除掉。 要互相友爱，存温柔的心，彼此饶恕，就像　神在基督里饶恕了你们一样。(page 1899) James 1:27- True spirituality that is pure in the eyes of our Father God is to make a difference in the lives of the orphans, and widows in their troubles, and to refuse to be corrupted by the world’s values. 雅 各 書 1:27: 关心需要帮助的孤儿、寡妇；不受邪恶世界的影响。这才是上帝所接受的敬拜。这种敬拜在上帝面前被认为纯洁、 无可指摘的。(page 1960) John 8:12: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." 約 翰 福 音 8:12-耶稣又对他们说∶“我是世界之光，跟随我的人绝不会走在黑暗之中，他将获得生命之光。” (page 1733) Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 罗马书 8:28: 我们知道，上帝使万事互相效力，使那些爱上帝，就是上帝按自己的旨意呼召的人得益处。(page 1833) Col 2:9,10: For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. 歌 羅 西 書 2:9,10: 由于上帝完整的神性活在基督凡人的形体里， 所以你们在他之中也变得完整了。基督是一切统治者和权威人士的首脑。(page 1910) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/6235739c6c371370b8c706ae2ded0d6d.jpeg fec3779f33aeeca246d0a5125dc16249 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/31c0796555a3417cad11834cbfccca9d.mp4 e36b3ef677aee608774803820a705dfe 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 & Discipline" Romans 5:17 A man had lost an amazing amount of weight, and had gone from essentially bed-ridden to an active lifestyle… until the day he caved on his desire and had a regular soda. …one with sugar in it. that one single choice quickly led him back to his old weight of around 600 pounds. What happened? One single moment of a lack of discipline destroyed all his progress. In a single can of sweetened soda. We all know it takes discipline to achieve and keep a promise or a goal. Those choices we make – it takes discipline to keep those commitments. Whether it’s a choice to exercise regularly – to eat better – to save money – to sacrifice something for the Lenten season - to use our time better – or maybe something as serious as staying off drugs or alcohol – changing our whole lifestyle for the sake of ourselves or our loved-ones – it takes discipline to remain true to our desired pattern of change. It can be so hard, though. Maybe even feel impossible. "You cannot be punished by telling the truth to yourself. You can only be rewarded." I know. You say, “I’ve tried this before.” The irony is, it takes grace in order to have discipline. Grace allows you the power to “drive on.” To persist. To NOT let the devil win. This, in turn, creates discipline to continue to change. To see that same power at work in many areas of your life. Sanctification. GOD says, “My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness.” The scripture "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9) emphasizes that God's grace is enough for believers, and His power is shown most clearly in their weaknesses. “ …my weakness becomes a portal to God’s power.” Here we are at Week Three of Lent. Lenten season is passing by quickly. As we come nearer and nearer to Resurrection Sunday (Easter) we also recognize that this means we will first have to go through the crucifixion. As Jesus prepared for these eventualities, the world was about to change in a total 180 degree direction. After thousands of years of rebellion and repentance, the power to finally be made right with God was about to be made available. The cries of many millennium was about to be answered by a single, solitary life sacrificed for us. Brian Houston – “His disgrace brought us grace.” John 12 tells us that his disciples did not understand all of this as it was happening. “While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light.” ? Do we really understand this thing we call “grace?” Heb 4:16: So now we draw near freely and boldly to where grace is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness. Illustration: What makes Christianity different from all the other religions of the world? C. S. Lewis, "Oh, that's easy. It's grace." How right he was! The very heart of the gospel is the supreme truth that God accepts us with no conditions whatever when we put our trust in the atoning sacrifice of His incarnate Son. Although we are helplessly sinful, God in grace forgives us completely. It's by His infinite grace that we are saved, not by moral character, works of righteousness, commandment-keeping, or churchgoing. "You either live in the shame that you don't measure up or rest in the reality that Jesus measured up on your behalf." It’s all about GRACE. “an act…of kindness, courtesy, or clemency.” “Grace is the power of God made available to meet all our needs.” It is at the true foundation of Christianity. By grace the lost are found. By grace God’s children stand in confidence. This morning, I want to remind you of the sufficiency of God’s grace in every part of your life. The power of God is made available to you! The Power to Drive On. To Stay on the Path Trust. Gratitude. Faith. Romans 5:17: If, because of the one man's trespass, death exercised dominion through that one, much more surely will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness exercise dominion in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. “will live in triumph over sin and death” If you are struggling this morning with the issues of life, God’s power is made available because His grace is sufficient. “Grace is the face that God wears when He looks at my failures.” We need grace to live this life. “…those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and… the gift of righteousness (will) reign in life…” Allow yourself to receive God’s grace in your life today. It is the only way to truly change. Grace can cleanse the heart of the past – and set you free to begin to look forward in your life – maybe for the first time in a long time? Don’t keep digging up that which was buried in Christ Don’t let the devil win. “When you believe a lie you empower the liar” Don’t empower that which has no power Don’t take the bait. That’s what lent is about. Abiding in God’s grace allows you a new empowerment – discipline – to promote you to the next level God has ready for you. If the enemy can’t reawaken the old appetites, he will try get us to carry guilt and shame for our past. Thinking about past sin brings up an emotion of the past. We are visiting a lie if grace does not override those things. whatever the enemy says about you cannot withstand God’s great mercy. You are not defined by your mistakes and failures but are prepared by them. You are defined by what God says about you. In Jesus’ name and in the victory of the cross you are forgiven and redeemed and free from condemnation. Will you become a victim of your history or a master of your destiny? “…those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and… the gift of righteousness (will) reign in life…” Can you see with the eyes of faith that the door of your past is now closed behind you – and a new door is opened before you? There is no side exit. You have no choice but to look ahead and move forward. How will you approach this new day knowing that everything is ahead of you? “Your Purpose is to be a vessel that God can use for His glory.” His grace empowers and equips you to become that vessel. Jesus came to make everything new. “I make all things new” (Rev 21:5) We know “as we sow, we reap.” “We pray “forgive us our trespasses…” We have to allow God’s grace to flow to others, too. There are people and circumstances in your past that you may have found very difficult to forgive – to pardon – to show grace to. To fully experience God’s grace we have to be willing to show it as well. Where are you holding on? What is that unpardonable grudge? If you are struggling this morning with the issues of life, God’s power is made available because His grace is sufficient. “Do something today that your future self will thank you for.” Today God’s grace is here to allow you to forgive – and to be forgiven. God’s grace at work in your life is the power you need to truly change. 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 & Discipline 优雅与纪律 Description An account of the resource Rom 5:17: For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! 罗马书 5:17: 如果因一人的过犯，死亡就借着那人做了王，那么接受上帝洪恩又得到祂所赐之义的人，岂不更要借着耶稣基督一人在生命中做王吗？(page 1828) 2 Cor 12:9: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 哥林多后书 12:9: 但祂说：“我的恩典足够你用，因为我的能力在人的软弱上更显得全备。”所以，我更喜欢夸耀自己的软弱，好让基督的能力荫庇我。(page 1883) John 12:36: “While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light.” 约翰福音 12:36: 所以你们当趁着有光的时候信从光，好成为光明的儿女。 (page 1744) Hebrews 4:16: Let us then come boldly to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy, and may find grace to help us at the moment when we need it. 希伯来书 4:16: 所以，让我们坦然无惧地到祂赐恩的宝座前，好领受怜悯和恩典，作随时的帮助。(page 1943) Revelation 21:5: And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 啟 示 錄 21:5: 然后，坐在宝座上的他，说∶“看，我正在把一切都变成新的！”接着又说∶“记下这些，这一切都是可信和真实的。” (page 2014) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 03/23/2025 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/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/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 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/cf1ac71062fc64a5a7274ff799ecc452.jpeg 5f9961212c4b73b57827ae2b47de8ee7 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/35ea69e019b4a175f3898c17b9ac6309.mp4 80353213e2baefd5ef405cd57dbcfeca Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Growing Through the Motions Ecclesiastes 1:8-10 "When everyday seems the same, it is because we have stopped noticing the good things that appear in our lives." ~ Paulo Coelho Msg: Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. mun•dane - of, relating to, or characteristic of the world 2 : characterized by the practical, transitory, and ordinary : COMMONPLACE Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. There is a positive, joyful side to the daily routine - if you look for it There are daily chores we must do There are obligations, and there are monthly, weekly and daily duties that fill our days. But if we just wish all of these things away, (along with all the precious time included,) what do we have left? Not much. Ec 9:10: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with (all) your might Col 3:23: Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… Put your life back into your life. Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. There is a Christian song I love that says, “I don’t want to spend my life going through the motions.” If we do (as the scripture says) “everything as unto the Lord” – if we live as the Bible says, “In everything (giving) thanks,” then even the normal, predictable, mundane duties of life are not just “going through the motions.” YOU can decide if it has meaning and purpose or not. ? Do you realize that if you have a true routine you don’t need “motivation?” You do what needs to be done from conditioning. That is a good thing. There is a positive, joyful side to the daily routine - if you look for it There was a hit song by that wonderful 60’s band “The Monkees” called “Pleasant Valley Sunday” It was a reflection of the countercultural zeitgeistof young people trying to create something new due to the disillusionment they perceived of the existing culture. “Another Pleasant Valley Sunday (Sunday) - Charcoal burning everywhere Rows of houses that are all the same - And no one seems to care” Now in 2025 people realize that was actually a pretty good way to live J Find the Joy in the mundane – because this is where most of life occurs. Don’t just accept the day-to-day routine – treasure it! “Growing through the motions” Find ways to LOVE your daily routine. “Waiting for my real life to begin” – Colin Hay Ben Franklin: “Do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made out of.” Ecc 5:18: But I realized that there is one good thing for people to do. We should be happy to eat and to drink. And we should enjoy the hard work that we do on the earth. That is what God wants us to do during the short time that he has given us on this earth. Travelling is great - for a time. Going new places – especially places with different cultures and traditions - can really wake you up- and teach you about life. A nice vacation can do wonders for us. It’s been years since I have been to the beach, but a good beach trip is really good for the soul. But I also feel like my dad always did. After a bit, you are ready and happy to go back home. To return to the routine. Travelling is always amazing to me. I can’t fully explain it – but there is just something so fascinating about flying far away and knowing that all you are has travelled with you – or has it? Don’t you feel alone sometimes when you’re away from home base? “No matter where you go - there YOU are.” There is no place you can go that God is not. Profoundly simple - yet simply profound. It is the answer to loneliness. - the answer to powerlessness. It is simply a matter of abiding. China: “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” If you cannot find the joy in the routine – in the mundane – in those “normal days” of life – then you are simply missing the purpose of that time – which is for equipping you for what God has for you to do when the set moment arrives. Jesus said, “God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” There is a good kind of poverty – the kind that recognizes how empty and alone we are without God. In the sixteenth century Copernicus was the first to claim that the earth revolves around the sun – and not the other way around. In the same way, many people think that if they clean up their lives, if they can “make” themselves righteous, then God will love them. The truth is quite the opposite. The truth is, once we come to experience God’s love – we begin to change from the inside out. We’ve got to connect – and remain connected to our God – our source. Remember – we do this by Faith. The Bible talks about “Dwelling in the Secret Place…” “Abiding in Christ…” Staying connected to the Vine *(Jesus) “In Him we live and move and have our being.” ? You ever have one of those times where you have lots of questions and no clear answers? “God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” Step One: We admitted we were powerless over _______ – that our lives had become unmanageable. One morning I was praying and I wrote these words: “Lord, I know that I don’t know everything – I have so much to learn. But I know that I am complete in You. I know that I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” At that very moment, His Presence and Peace filled me as I just submitted to Him. Waiting. A broken, empty vessel. “Those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing.” When we trust God is with us – Emmanuel - when we depend on Him, we can have peace for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Jesus said, “Take no thought for tomorrow.” I had a conversation with someone about how hard it is for them to live in the moment. Everything is either a memory or a dreaded future event. I know I have had whole vacations where all I thought about was being back home. How many moments have we missed by not listening to The Master – by worrying – by walking in fear of tomorrow instead of faith for today? If we are present in the moment, we are not in fear. Staying Present – in His Presence. (selah) The great composer Tchaikovsky once said that he spent his entire life “regretting the past and hoping for the future, never being satisfied in the present.” The present is all we have. We must learn to be “Complete in Him” NOW. If we will live in the Present Moment – if we will abide in His Presence – we can once again discover we are “Complete In Him.” If you will live in this revelation that you are, indeed, “complete in Him,” your whole life will change. You can live in the moment and live in His peace. It takes practice and it takes persistence – but it is worth the effort. If we are “complete in Him” (which we are,) we should live like it. Our lives should demonstrate this truth. Stop seeing lack – start seeing completion. Decree over your life – by decreeing over your day Jesus said, “…does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.” Mark 11:24: This is the reason I urge you to boldly believe for whatever you ask for in prayer—be convinced that you have received it and it will be yours. Speak blessings over the whole thing you call “your life” Whosoever meaneth ME. Prov 28:10 says, “ … the upright shall possess good things.” Ecc 6:6: Even if he lives 2,000 years, it is sad if a person can’t enjoy the good things God gives him. Abiding is a choice. It is a deliberate act of faith to cast aside your doubts and fears and wait upon the Lord. To live in His Present in the Present moment. Beloved, don’t hesitate to come to your Heavenly Father. God, who is so full of goodness and supply. He is always willing to bless, preserve, heal and restore you. “Fill my cup, Lord…” Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource GROWING through the motions 日常涵养成长 Description An account of the resource Ecc 1:10: Is there anything of which one can say, “Look! This is something new”?It was here already, long ago; it was here before our time. 传道书 1:10: 人可以指着哪件事说：“看啊，这是新事”？所谓的新事在我们以前早就有了。 (page 1086) Ec 9:10: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might 传道书 9:10: 凡你的手能做的，都要尽力去做 (pg 1097) Col 3:23: Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men 歌罗西书 3:23: 无论做什么事，都要发自内心，像是为主做的，而不是为人做的，(page 1912) Ecc 5:18: But I realized that there is one good thing for people to do. We should be happy to eat and to drink. And we should enjoy the hard work that we do on the earth. That is what God wants us to do during the short time that he has given us on this earth. 传道书 5:18: 我认为人生最美最善的是，在上帝所赐的短暂岁月中尽情吃喝，享受自己在日光之下劳苦得来的成果。因为这是人当得的。(page 1092) Mark 11:24: This is the reason I urge you to boldly believe for whatever you ask for in prayer—be convinced that you have received it and it will be yours. 馬 可 福 音 11:24: 所以我告诉你们：在祷告中请求，只要相信你们已经得到它，那么它就会属于你们。 (page 1641) Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. 以赛亚书 40:31: 但仰望耶和华的人必重新得力。他们必像鹰一样展翅高飞，他们奔跑也不困倦，他们行走也不疲乏。(page 1177) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike J Koger Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/25/2025 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/9ccad9fabd12b05079b3c529298f9fca.jpeg f0f85bfff38e383711df9298e3422492 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/3a3ebbde9cfffc56b0e53987818c2a5d.mp4 19036eaefa27418c469c0905298310c0 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 Hands Raised in Victory Hebrews 12:12,13 A lectionary calendar is a structured, three-year cycle of pre-selected scripture readings — Old Testament, Psalm, Epistle, and Gospel — used for worship, study, and daily prayer. It aligns with the Christian liturgical year and allows congregations to hear large portions of the Bible consistently. When used properly, it can be a good thing. Today is Mother’s Day. I have rarely followed the calendar to offer the weekly message. I trust God to guide my heart as to what I feel led we need to hear… …but this message today should really hit home with many mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers. Because many people are carrying burdens no one else can see. And strong, God-fearing mothers are the best example I know of. They have often gone without rest or concern for themselves for too long at a time. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” If your heart is tired today, please hear these words. Like me, you may say, “I know, I know…. but…” This message is not here to condemn you. It is here to call you back. Maybe you have been carrying more than people know. Maybe you still smile, still answer, still do what must be done, but inside, your soul is running low. For a moment, let your heart become still before the Lord. Let these words settle deeply into your spirit. You do not have to pretend before God. You do not have to act strong in the presence of the One who already knows your weakness. Maybe the morning came quietly and you stepped into it with a heart that was still heavy from yesterday. But before your feet touched the floor, mercy had already reached you. God saw your exhaustion before you knew how to name it. “Lord, I begin this new day for You, with You, and because of You.” This morning, as you prepare to face whatever this day holds, the challenges, the uncertainties, the responsibilities, - you have a choice. You can carry the weight of it all on your own shoulders, or you can start with thanksgiving and the sacrifice of praise and watch God transform your entire day. The enemy wants tired people to believe they are abandoned. But exhaustion is not evidence of abandonment. Today we are going to bring this burden before the Lord. We will remember His mercy and lay it down together. When you anchor your morning in gratitude, you're not denying the reality of your problems. You're declaring the greater reality of God's power. You're not ignoring your needs. You're acknowledging that God is your ultimate provider. You're not pretending everything is perfect. You're proclaiming that God is sovereign over it all. Gratitude is an act of faith. It's trusting that God is good even when circumstances aren't. It's believing that he's working even when you can't see it. It's choosing to praise him before you see the breakthrough. You may not have everything you prayed for yet, but you are still here. And since God woke you up this morning, it means He still has purpose for your life. That is why Lamentations 3:22–23 :“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning.” Your life is not being held together by luck. It is being held by mercy. So even when our souls — and sometimes our bodies — feel tired, our best choice is still to praise Jesus for His strength in our time of weakness. Hebrews 12:12,13 says: “So be made strong even in your weakness by lifting up your tired hands in prayer and worship. And strengthen your weak knees, for as you keep walking forward on God’s paths all your stumbling ways will be divinely healed!” Phillips translation: “So take a fresh grip on life and brace your trembling limbs. Don’t wander away from the path but forge steadily onward. On the right path the limping foot recovers strength and does not collapse.” Notice what scripture is teaching us. It does not say we become strong by pretending we are not weak. It says: “Be made strong even in your weakness…” Sometimes faith is simply lifting tired hands. Sometimes worship comes with trembling knees. Sometimes praise is whispered through exhaustion. But heaven still hears it. The Bible speaks about a “sacrifice of praise.” Hebrews 13:15: “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” A sacrifice costs something. Anybody can praise when the battle is over. But faith praises while the battle is still raging. • Sometimes praise costs tears. Sometimes praise costs pride. Sometimes praise is offered while the heart is still hurting. But there is something powerful about choosing worship in the middle of weakness. Psalm 89:1 says: “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever…” Not just when life is easy. Not just when every prayer has been answered. But forever. Jesus is the Great Shepherd. (“His name is Wonderful”) Sometimes we realize we still do not have it all figured out… …and we need the Great Shepherd to guide us back again. Sheep do not usually realize how well they are being cared for… protected… provided for… guided. A child may cry when the father takes a sharp knife out of his hands, but it is for the good of the child, isn’t it? And sometimes we do not understand why God allows certain interruptions, delays, or corrections in our lives. But the Shepherd sees dangers the sheep cannot see. Some of you have spent so much time caring for everyone else that you forgot the Shepherd still wants to care for you. (and that you need His care) Today’s scripture says: “Be made strong even in your weakness by lifting up your tired hands in prayer and worship.” Raising our hands is a form of surrender. And in the natural world, surrender may look like defeat. But in the Spirit, surrender to Jesus becomes the beginning of victory. When we lift our hands before God, we are not surrendering to fear. We are surrendering to the One who can make us whole again. He becomes our peace. Our strength. Our Shepherd. Our victory. Sometimes our mission is also to help guide someone else back to this place of grace. Hebrews 12:15 says: “Watch over each other to make sure that no one misses the revelation of God’s grace.” There are weary people all around us. Some are quietly breaking under burdens they have never spoken aloud. And sometimes the greatest ministry is simply helping someone lift their hands again. Helping them remember mercy again. Helping them believe again. Psalm 118:25: “O God, please come and save us again; bring us Your breakthrough-victory!” Today God is not asking you to prove your strength. He is asking you to lift your hands. Because victory does not begin with striving. Victory begins with surrender. These are not hands of defeat today. These are hands reaching toward mercy. These are hands raised in victory. Prayer: Heavenly Father, Today we come to You with tired hands, weary hearts, and burdens that sometimes feel too heavy to carry alone. Thank You that Your mercy reached us before we even knew how to ask for it. Thank You that Your compassion has not failed us. Thank You that Your grace is still holding us together. Lord Jesus, teach us to lift our hands again — not in defeat, but in surrender to You. Where there is exhaustion, bring strength. Where there is heaviness, bring rest. Where there is fear, bring peace. Where there is wandering, lead us back beside still waters. Help us to offer You a sacrifice of praise even in difficult seasons. Help us trust the Shepherd who sees what we cannot see. And Father, for every mother, grandmother, caregiver, and weary soul in this room today — surround them with Your presence and remind them they are not forgotten. Strengthen weak knees. Restore trembling hearts. Heal every stumbling path. Today we raise our hands toward Heaven and declare that our victory is found in Jesus Christ alone. In the mighty and merciful name of Jesus we pray, Amen. I Surrender All – pg 354 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 Hands Raised in Victory 高举双手得胜 Description An account of the resource Hands Raised in Victory 高举双手得胜 Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” 马太福音 11:28: “凡劳苦担重担的人，可以到我这里来， 我就使你们得安息。” Lamentations 3:22,23: Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. 耶利米哀歌 3:22,23: 我们不至消灭，是出于耶和华诸般的慈爱； 是因他的怜悯不至断绝。每早晨这都是新的。 Hebrews 12:12,13: So be made strong even in your weakness by lifting up your tired hands in prayer and worship... 希伯来书 12:12,13: 所以，你们要把下垂的手、发酸的腿挺起来. Hebrews 13:15: Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God... 希伯来书 13:15: 我们应当靠着耶稣，常常以颂赞为祭献给神... Psalm 89:1: I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever... 诗篇 89:1: 我要歌唱耶和华的慈爱，直到永远... Hebrews 12:15: Watch over each other to make sure that no one misses the revelation of God’s grace. 希伯来书 12:15: 又要谨慎，恐怕有人失了神的恩... Psalm 118:25: O God, please come and save us again; bring us Your breakthrough-victory! 诗篇 118:25: 耶和华啊，求你拯救！耶和华啊，求你使我们亨通！ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/10/2026 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/2871b16e8ffb0cc2c550738579d46d6c.jpg 2f97b676c6c68343db696da2b3c7b540 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8794ffa092f9361749afadb6d2d77daa.mp4 f94fa929009091839238638fd399d100 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 HE IS RISEN — NOW I WILL ARISE Romans 5:9-11 “The stone is sealed. The grave is quiet. But God is still working. What looks like the end is actually preparation for something amazing. SUNDAY IS COMING. Hold on to hope.” Sore muscles usually mean you're on the right track. Sometimes things feel harder not because you're failing — but because you're growing. So - Just because you're in a dark season doesn’t mean you’ve slipped. You just might be underground… growing roots… getting ready to rise. Think about Good Friday. Dark. Painful. seemingly Hopeless. Jesus was beaten, crucified… and placed in a grave. It looked like the enemy had won. But Sunday changed everything. The grave could not hold Him. Death could not contain Him. Darkness could not stop Him. Jesus declares: “I was dead… but now I am alive forevermore.” Here’s what the resurrection teaches us: God always finishes what He starts. No matter how dark it looks… No matter how long it’s been… No matter who is against you… God will take you from Friday… to Sunday. Today is not just about what Jesus did. It’s about what is available to you now. Romans 5:10,11: Now that we are at peace with God, and because we share in his resurrection life, how much more we will be rescued from sin’s dominion! And even more than that, we overflow with triumphant joy in our new relationship of living reconciled to God—all because of Jesus Christ! Two words I want you to lock in your heart this morning. Resurrection. …means bringing something back to life. Something that was dead — breathing again. Arise. …means to get up. To wake up. To move from where you have been. So the question is— Have we been asleep? Paul writes to the church in Ephesus — people who already knew the Lord — - and he says this in Ephesians 5:14: “Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” He is not writing to pagans. He is not writing to people who had never heard the Gospel. He is writing to church people. People who were already saved, already loved, already filled with the Spirit. And he is saying — “wake up.” Could it possibly be that some of us need to wake up to what we already have? Could it be that the resurrection is not just a doctrine we believe — but a reality we need to walk in every single day? "it is finished" Tetelestai (tetel-is-sty) Greek Business. Judicial. Military context. The debt of your sin has been fully paid The judgement for your sin has been fully served The war against sin and death has been won Salvation and Reconciliation is fully Yours. Do we need to wake-up to our inheritance, just like the prodigal son did when he “came to himself?” In Luke 15, the prodigal son says: “I will arise and go to my father.” This is Awakening. This is True Repentance. This is the message of Easter: Because Jesus rose — you can rise. When life hits you— (sometimes by surprise, right?) When you're overwhelmed… When you're broken… When you're bound… There is one response: “I will arise and go to my Father.” Say it when: life doesn’t make sense the report is bad your heart is broken you feel stuck “I will arise and go to my Father.” As true believers, we are no longer on the outside looking in In Matt 27: 51: “Then Jesus shouted out again, and he released his spirit.  At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two…” At the moment of Jesus' death on the cross, the thick curtain in the Jerusalem temple separating the Holy of Holies was torn in two from top to bottom. This event symbolized the removal of barriers between God and humanity, signifying that Jesus’ sacrifice granted direct access to God, ending the need for priestly mediation and the old covenant. The veil, which was roughly six inches thick and impassable, could not be torn by human force, suggesting the tear was a divine act indicating the sacrifice was complete. It marked the end of the old sacrificial system, as Jesus became the final, perfect sacrifice. The cross tore the veil. Heb 10:10: By God’s will we have been purified and made holy once and for all through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus, the Messiah! We now have direct access to God. He is not distant. He is your Father. You are not abandoned. You are accepted. Maybe sometimes your heart stirs in the middle of the night and you know something needs to change… yet, the next morning, it’s so easy to just go back to the usual routine and forget what you felt Dog & the Nail Story I want to be careful here — but I also want to be honest… Some of us may be sitting on a nail today We are uncomfortable enough to whine about it — but not uncomfortable enough to get up (arise) and do something about it. We talk about our situation. We may even pray about our situation. We may ask others for prayer about our situation. …but for some reason we haven’t moved off the nail Some people are in a pit… …but not uncomfortable enough to leave. So why do we do it? Because sometimes the familiar pit — even when it is painful — feels safer than the unknown of climbing out. Because change requires movement, and movement requires faith, and faith means trusting something you cannot yet see. “rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life." Why wait for rock bottom when resurrection power is already in you? When you’re in darkness… You don’t follow what you see. You follow His voice. “He has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Today is your day. Not tomorrow. Not someday. Today. Say it with me: “I will arise and go to my Father.” He is risen — Now I will arise. Heavenly Father, Thank You for the power of the resurrection. Thank You that Jesus is alive— and because He lives, we can live too. Today, we choose to arise. Out of darkness… into Your light. Out of fear… into faith. Out of bondage… into freedom. Father, we come back to You. Just like the prodigal son, we say: “I will arise and go to my Father.” Restore what has been broken. Renew what has grown cold. Awaken what has been asleep. Fill us again with Your life, Your Spirit, and Your power. From this day forward, we will not stay where we’ve been— we will walk in the new life You have given us. We declare: Because He is risen… we will arise. 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 He is Risen 他已复活 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/05/2026 Description An account of the resource Romans 5:9-11: Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! 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!  Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. 罗马书 5:9-11: 现在，我们既然因祂所流的血而被称为义人，岂不更要靠着祂免受上帝的烈怒吗？ 如果我们还与上帝为敌的时候，尚且可以借着上帝儿子的死亡与上帝和好，和好后的我们岂不更要借着祂儿子的生命得到拯救吗？ 不但如此，我们借着主耶稣基督与上帝和好之后，还要借着祂在上帝面前欢喜。 (pg 1828) Eph 5:14 - “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” 以弗所书 5:14: “沉睡的人啊，醒来吧！从死人中起来吧， 基督要光照你了！”(page 1899) Luke 15:18: “I will arise and go to my father…” 路加福音 15:18:“我要起来，到我父亲那里去…”(pg 1694) Matt 27: 51: Then Jesus shouted out again, and he released his spirit.  At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two… 马太福音 27:51: 忽然，殿里的幔子从上到下裂为两半，地也震动，磐石也崩裂 (pg 1614) Heb 10:10: By God’s will we have been purified and made holy once and for all through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus, the Messiah! 希 伯 來 書 10:10: 凭上帝的意旨，耶稣基督只牺牲了自己的身体一次，便使得我们永远圣洁。(pg 1950) 他已复活! 现在是起来的时候 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/76a8210970f5ebbb02521d108ace19a8.jpg 07be98cfa515f412e89c78a33214b195 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/5f9df0cc9288962b0d05a9570c32c28d.mp4 b58676e0d5ddd0ad11f8edd3d2d87b08 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 Heart Alignment: The Circumcision of the Heart Deut 30:6 In the 1970s, many of us spent hours waiting for our favorite songs to play on the radio, finger hovering over the 'Record' button on our cassette tape recorders. One cassette I played for years included that legendary hit song 'Freebird.' The singer proudly declares, 'This bird you cannot change' and 'Lord, I can't change'—as if un-changeability were a badge of honor. But what does that declaration really mean? It's essentially surrendering to stagnation, giving up on the possibility of becoming better. It's saying, 'I am someone who chooses to remain the same' rather than 'I am someone who chooses growth.' We're all on a path that's leading us somewhere. Have you considered: where are you headed if you continue doing what you're doing now? ?What if deep down, you actually care that you don't currently care? Perhaps a part of you is truly crying out for more from life. How often do we begin our days with grand plans, only to end up mindlessly scrolling through our phones? It's so much easier to fall into what psychologists now call 'doomscrolling'—the action of continually consuming negative online news or social media content, even though it causes distress. This pattern reflects a deeper spiritual problem. The Bible warns us not to be carnally minded—not to think the way the world thinks. Scripture is clear: 'To be carnally minded is death.' Jesus commanded in Matthew 22:37, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' He also said, 'If you love me, you will keep my commandments.' But this kind of love isn't merely a work of our will. It's a profound transformation—a work of the Holy Spirit. Scripture calls it the 'Circumcision of the Heart.' In the Bible, physical circumcision was commanded by God as an outward sign of His covenant with Abraham and Israel. It symbolized obedience, devotion to God, and commitment to the covenant. It represented the 'cutting away' of sin and the 'filth of the flesh.' In the New Testament, this physical act is transcended by the 'circumcision of the heart'—a spiritual act performed by the Holy Spirit that signifies an inward cleansing and transformation. Deut 30:6 tells us: 'And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.' Charles Spurgeon beautifully explained this passage: 'Here we read of the true circumcision. Note the author of it: "The Lord thy God." He alone can deal effectually with our heart and take away its carnality and pollution. To make us love God with all our heart and soul is a miracle of grace which only the Holy Ghost can work.' 'We must look to the Lord alone for this and never be satisfied with anything short of it. Note where this circumcision is wrought. It is not of the flesh but of the Spirit. It is the essential mark of the covenant of grace. Love to God is the indelible token of the chosen seed; by this secret seal the election of grace is certified to the believer.' 'We must see to it that we trust in no outward ritual but are sealed in heart by the operation of the Holy Ghost. Note what the result is—"that thou mayest live." To be carnally minded is death. In the overcoming of the flesh, we find ‘life and peace.' The circumcision – the “cutting away,” not only propels us forward – but it also takes us back – back to our roots – our foundation. A Returning. 2 Cor 5:15 declares: 'He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.' 1 Cor 15:14 reminds us of the foundation of our faith: 'If Christ has not been raised, all of our preaching has been for nothing and your faith is useless.' John Wesley understood this when he wrote that if Christ is risen, we ought to die to the world and 'live wholly unto God.' What does it mean to 'live wholly unto God'? - It signifies a complete shift in purpose, with a life now dedicated to pleasing God. - It means being 'alive to God,' empowered by the Holy Spirit to live righteously. - It establishes a new identity in Christ, where we're no longer defined by our past but by our new life in Him. ? So how do we measure up? Do we JUST keep looking at our phones, or do we now strive for the higher calling in Christ Jesus? Are we those who choose to remain the same, or those who choose growth? Ezekiel 36:26 promises: '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.' This circumcision of the heart is the central idea of the New Covenant. Jeremiah 31:33 tells us: 'I will put My law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they will be My people.' The grace of the New Covenant is the grace that changes our hearts. Romans 12:2 challenges us: 'Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it.' “Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking.” Proverbs reminds us that as a person 'thinks in his heart, so is he.' How can we love God with all our heart without this divine circumcision of the heart? A circumcised heart declares, 'My heart is fixed!' It says, 'I set my face like a stone to serve the Lord!' Remember: 'You will never leave footprints that last if you are always walking on tiptoe.' You have a circumcised heart when what you ought to do and what you want to do are the same. When your heart is circumcised and you can clearly hear from the Lord, you won't need the approval of others to step out in faith. Philippians 3:3 reminds us: 'But we are the ones who have the true circumcision—we who worship God through his Spirit. We don't trust in ourselves or anything we can do. We take pride only in Christ Jesus.' Colossians 2:11 affirms: 'In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ.' Do you keep asking God to forgive the same sins over and over? That’s because you need to experience true cleansing. Your heart needs to be circumcised. And that’s a job for the Holy Spirit. Romans 2:29: “True circumcision…is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit” “ …a change of heart produced by the Spirit” ? How can this transformation happen for us? ….through a simple act of faith and obedience. If we believe it is the Holy Spirit that must do this work in us, then we must simply take that first step of faith. I urge you: Take it today—without delay. "Circumcise my heart, O Lord, to love You with all my heart and with all my soul. Let my heart be aligned with You.” James1:12: If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life’s difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God! True happiness comes as you pass the test with faith, and receive the victorious crown of life promised to every lover of God! 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 HEART ALIGNMENT 心之对齐 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/19/2025 Description An account of the resource Deuteronomy 30:6: And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live. 申命记 30:6: 你们的上帝耶和华要洁净你们和你们子孙的心， 好让你们全心全意地爱祂，并且存活。(page 339) Romans 12:2: Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. 罗马书 12:2: 你们不可追随世界的潮流，要随着思想的不断更新而改变，这样就能明辨上帝的旨意，知道什么是良善、纯全、蒙祂悦纳的。(page 1839) 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. 以西结书 36:26: 我要赐你们一颗新心，把新的灵放在你们里面。我要除去你们的石心，赐给你们一颗肉心。(page 1408) Colossians 2:11: In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ. 歌罗西书 2:11: 你们也在基督里受了非人手所行的割礼，是基督为除掉你们的罪恶本性而行的割礼。(page 1910) Matthew 22:37: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 马太福音 22:37: 耶稣回答说：“你要全心、全情、全意爱主——你的上帝" (page 1600) Romans 2:29: …True circumcision…is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. 罗马书 2:29: 真割礼是借着圣灵在心里受的割礼，不在于律法条文。这样的人得到的称赞不是从人来的，而是从上帝来的。(page 1824) 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/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