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Live, Learn, Love Series – “God’s Love is Real”
John 1: 1-4
“You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have” – Corrie Ten Boom
As believers, we have been given something special. Today, you may hear about how foolish or ridiculous it is to be a Christian. People today are “spiritual” not “religious”. Saying you are spiritual is just another way of saying I’m going to do things my way, God must meet me on my terms. Umm, let me be clear here… that’s poor thinking and a rough way to face life. There are things that have happened in my life that I have needed the security and comfort of knowing that God was there, in my hour of need, to be the rock and the source of hope. I have limits in my abilities, God does not. I have and end to my strength and wisdom, God does not.
Live, Learn, Love Series – “Live Genuine”
1 John 1: 5-10 CSB
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr
“Honesty is the best policy” … it is attributed to Benjamin Franklin. As for me, I learned it at home – at a young age. I did my best to instill the same ideal into my kids. The challenge becomes, sometimes the truth hurts. Now, if you want to run around getting hurt you will likely demand others be honest with you. That doesn’t work. It only promotes hard feelings for everyone involved. As believers, our choice should be to live genuine (open, sincere) – real love understands and can look past the hurt to see the need. As believers, our opportunity is to live authentic in a culture that doesn’t hold to those values.
Live, Learn, Love Series – “We Have Help”
1 John 2:1-6 NCV
“God never said that the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile” – Max Lucado
Everybody messes up, even Christians. But we don’t have a very good reputation for how we treat them. Someone has said that “Christians are the only ones that kill their wounded.” There are times a Christian will fall short – mess up – sin, and when it becomes public knowledge, others will claim they are “fallen.” They haven’t fallen from salvation, they’ve tripped (fallen down) in their walk with God. But instead of extending a hand to help them up, many Christians react by kicking them when they’re down.
Let’s Live Series – “What’s It All About?”
Lamentations 3:26
“What makes us human is not our mind but our heart, not our ability to think but our ability to love.” – Henri Nouwen
The days, they are changing. In my lifetime I have used rotary dial phones and party telephone lines, a regular typewriter, cassette and 8 track tapes, rabbit ears on a TV, school lockers filled with books, fill-in the bubble tests, punch cards, (can you think of more?). I would guess that you can recall a few of the things that have changed in your life. The way we live our life may have evolved but the things that are important haven’t.
Let’s Live Series – “Be Attitudes”
Matthew 5:1-12 NASB
“People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.” – John C. Maxwell
Believers have been given the privilege to show the world that life can be full of joy and peace. That choosing obedience, acting in service and sacrifice (of self will), and knowing that family and community means much more and brings unity and peace in every circumstance. As Christ followers, our actions and behaviors – the way we live reveal a moral and spiritual standard that is (1) different from the world and (2) a way to live that allows us to find wholeness, completeness… satisfaction and contentment. Too often, it’s only when life is good – when everything is going well – when there are no roadblocks, that many will carry a positive attitude in life.
Let’s Live Series – “Coming or Going – You Will Be Celebrated”
Romans 14:17-19 NLT
“You are the only Bible some unbelievers will ever read.” – John MacArthur
Two friends are on a hike in the forest. They are amazed by all the wonders that surround them. In the distance they see a bear and decide to change direction. Suddenly, the bear turns and begins running towards them. These two friends turn and make a mad dash to get away from the charging animal. But then one of them stops, takes some running shoes from his bag, and starts putting the shoes on. “What are you doing?” says the other man. “Do you think you will be able to out run the bear with those?”
Let’s Live Series – “Be Distinct”
Matthew 5:13-20
“Faith does not eliminate questions. But faith knows where to take them.” – Elisabeth Elliot
Let me bring you some encouragement… “Just think—you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that.” (1 Corinthians 1:7-9 MSG).
Let’s Live Series – “What The World Needs Now”
Matthew 5:43-48 CSB
“If this is to be a Happy New Year, a year of usefulness, a year in which we shall live to make this earth better, it is because God will direct our pathway. How important then, to feel our dependence upon Him!” – Matthew Simpson
We are heading into a New Year. It’s a time for reflection, remembrance, and renewal. This time is always exciting because it is filled with hope (of something better, something new) and the expectation of a fresh start from the past struggles. I have talked to many people recently that are hoping for a better 2019. This past year seems to have been filled with many more challenges and Change is difficult, change can be exciting, change is constant.
Let’s Live Series – “Live Daily”
Matthew 6:25-34 NLT
“For most of us, the great danger is not that we will renounce our faith. It is that we will become so distracted and rushed and preoccupied that we will settle for a mediocre version of it. We will just skim our lives instead of actually living them.” – John Ortberg
John Ortberg is a Pastor and Author. I have read a few of his books and listened to a sermon or 2… One thing he has said is, “People would rather debate doctrine or beliefs or tradition or interpretation than actually do what Jesus said. It’s not rocket science. Just go do it. Practice loving a difficult person or try forgiving someone. Give away some money. Tell someone thank you. Encourage a friend.
Let’s Live Series – “Not Enough…”
Matthew 6:5-8
“Our prayers may be awkward. Our attempts may be feeble. But since the power of prayer is in the One who hears it and not in the one who says it, our prayers do make a difference.” – Max Lucado
How often to you set aside time to devote yourself to prayer? Be honest… I asked this question to several people and the initial response (from each person I asked) was, “not enough”. That speaks volumes. I think that every believer, each Christ-follower, wants to find a way to develop a deeper and more intimate relationship with the Lord God.
Let’s Live Series – “Living A Full Life”
Matthew 7
“God will meet you where you are in order to take you where He wants you to go.” – Tony Evans
Our recent journey has been about becoming more grounded in what we know. And finding ways to live it out, in everyday life. Faith, our relationship with the Lord God, is meant to change us – to make us different from the world. If everything in the world was right, if what is defined as normal life kept us in a right relationship (righteousness) with the Lord, then Jesus would have not needed to come. We would have not had the need for a Savior.
Let’s Find Out Who We Really Are – “In Him”
Ephesians 1:3-14
“The Wizard (of Oz) says look inside yourself and find self. God says look inside yourself and find (the Holy Spirit). The first will get you to Kansas. The latter will get you to heaven. Take your pick.” – Max Lucado
What do you do when you don’t feel like praying? How about praising? There are times that these choices seem like difficult ones. It can be a challenge to live the passage “Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised…”
Let’s Find Out Who We Really Are – “Friends with Benefits”
John 15:16
“Yet as I read the birth stories about Jesus I cannot help but conclude that though the world may be tilted toward the rich and powerful, God is tilted toward the underdog.” – Phillip Yancey
God is writing His story… on your heart – throughout your life – in your choices, actions, and attitudes. His testimony, His character, is observed by others in the way you live and act/react to the daily situations and circumstances you encounter. Too often, we think “our lives” are a reflection of who we are. This is why we need to understand the position and place we hold, our rights and benefits, the responsibilities we have – IN CHRIST.
Let’s Find Out Who We Really Are – “Let’s Think About Our God”
Genesis 12:1-3; 13:8-9; 14:22-24
“Only God Himself fully appreciates the influence of a Christian mother in the molding of character in her children.” – Billy Graham
If you had a good relationship with your Mom, then much of your life (the things you do) are a result of that relationship. If there was difficulty between you and Mom -if there was bad behavior and poor choices that resulted in lifelong hurt – then the choices you make and the way you act is in response to that. We are looking for love and acceptance… Moms have been known to do that. Even in their expectations, the intention is what’s best for you.
Let’s Find Out Who We Really Are – “Free To Be Me”
Mark 8:34; Proverbs 16:9; 2 Peter 3:9; Galatians 5:13
“The gospel alone liberates you to live a life of scandalous generosity, unrestrained sacrifice, uncommon valor, and unbounded courage.” – Tullian Tchividjian
Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 CSB). Sacrificing for friends – for those who are important is something, doing the same for those you don’t know is a great gift. The ultimate sacrifice is giving your life, your existence and impact here (with those you love), for those who you don’t agree with or who have hurt you in some way. It’s the example Jesus left us.
Let’s Find Out Who We Really Are – “I’m Just A Kid”
John 1: 12-13
“It’s all about family…” – Pastor Rick
Have you ever thought about what it would be like if Jesus were on the Earth today? Would He be accepted? Would His message be much different? Perhaps the real question I am asking is, would Jesus and His message be received today in the place that I live? I know these are philosophical musings but there are times that reflection is a healthy exercise.
Gifted To Serve – “Baptized Again?”
1 Corinthians 12:1
“The Spirit is the first power we practically experience, but the last power we come to understand.” – Oswald Chambers
I have been challenging us to read the Bible for what it says – not for what we want it to say or what we expect it to say… We are venturing into something that many see as controversial and for others it is misunderstood. Have you ever wondered why there is more than one “Christian” church? I mean, we serve One God – who is above everyone and present in everyone and works through everyone (cf. Eph. 4:6).
Gifted To Serve – “Diversity in Oneness”
1 Corinthians 12:4-7
“My duty, as a father, is to make family, those closest to me, know they are loved. When I fall short of that, I depend on grace and forgiveness to communicate that love.” – Pastor Rick
Being a Dad, I know the privileges of Fatherhood. It is a path that is littered with mistakes and failures. But it is one that can take you to the highest places and fill you with incredible joy and satisfaction. Former President Ronald Regan said, “All great change in America begins at the dinner table”. Today, I would say that we need to get back to those family moments around the table. Where after a meal, you can push the dishes away and just talk.
Gifted To Serve – “The Gifts – Part 1”
1 Corinthians 12:7-11
“God will not give me humility, or patience, or holiness, or love as separate investments of His grace. He has given only one gift to meet our need, His son Christ Jesus.” – Watchman Nee
I think that as we journey together, we get to share life… I’m not talking philosophically. The implication here is that we get to be involved, to get to know one another and the stories that have become part of our makeup. Maybe that is some of the reason Social Media platforms are so ingrained in people today. Sharing your story, letting others know things about you – interests, thoughts, those things that get your attention or make you smile – are part of letting others see YOU.
Gifted To Serve – “The Gifts – Part 2”
Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:1, 15:10
“Your spiritual gifts were not given for your own benefit but for the benefit of others, just as other people were given gifts for your benefit.” – Rick Warren
Have you ever felt like you were doing the right thing, but the timing was all wrong? Good intentions are always honorable, even if the timing is off. I have learned (because life experience is a great teacher) that looking beyond the results and seeking to understand creates a better opening for acceptance and compassion.
Gifted To Serve – “The Gifts – Part 3”
Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Corinthians 12:1
“Don’t get older; get better: Live realistically. Give generously. Adapt willingly. Trust fearlessly. Rejoice daily.” – Charles R. Swindoll
Before we jump into the bulk of the message today, I want to encourage you… Keep stepping, find ways to make a difference, show love. Remember, its not perfection that the Lord God is looking for. It is being willing – His message will always go out. We get to choose to be that source of grace, that demonstration of compassion.
Gifted To Serve – “Just Live!!!”
Ephesians 4:20-24 NLT; 4:32 CSB
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
When Jesus walked the Earth there were difficulties in trusting and believing who Jesus was and what He was teaching His Disciples. Remember what was taking place while Jesus and His “inner circle” (Peter, James, John) were up on the Mount of Transfiguration? Mark 9:14 (CSB): When they came to the disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes disputing with them. There was an argument because the Disciples were unable to use their Spiritual Gifts to help someone in need.
Summer of Psalms – “Finding Fulfillment”
Psalm 3:1-8 NLT
American President Abraham Lincoln said, “I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for that day.” – Michael Burlingname
The Psalms were written over a 1,000-year timeframe (perhaps more). The psalms’ teachings are difficult to summarize because their main purpose is not to teach doctrine. The Psalms are heartfelt expressions of worship that come from a deep desire to praise the Lord God.
Summer of Psalms – “Consider This…”
Psalm 8:1-9 NCV
“Christ is not valued at all unless He is valued above all.” – Augustine
Seeing things happen in the sky is wondrous – it frequently causes me to ponder the power and abilities of the Lord God. Have you watched an electrical storm from a distance? To see the lightning strikes and the clouds gather… it is a powerful instance. I’m sure you get the idea. In Psalm 19, David says, “the heavens are telling of the glory of God” (vs. 1, NASB). Romans 1:20, “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” (NLT2).
Summer of Psalms – “Stillness, The Key to Living Well”
Psalm 46
“Rest – Allow God to restore, replenish and refocus your heart and mind.”
How many people will tell you they are busy, that they have very little time??? And do you know anyone that is looking for something to grab their attention? They seem to be doing all kinds of things and yet never accomplishing much except for telling you how busy they are. Having a lot to do and accomplishing a lot are two different things.
Summer of Psalms – “Together is Better”
Psalm 133
“We are all in this struggle together.” – Pastor Rick
We are much better together. Hellen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much”. That doesn’t mean we have to be carbon copies of one another. Each of us has individual strengths and assets that we bring to the table. And when we use them together we have the tools and abilities (collectively) to accomplish any task. I know this whole thought process can be a volatile subject and I’m not looking to get anyone riled up. What I am saying is there is a better way, a fresh perspective is needed.
Summer of Psalms – “Sing, Sing, Sing”
Psalm 96:1-13 MSG
“But just as your body needs sleep, your soul needs time to rest in God. To learn more about Him. To talk to Him. To worship and praise Him. To fellowship with other brothers and sisters.” – Craig Groeschel
We, as believers, are given the task of allowing our “light” (our faith and sense of purpose) to shine in this world. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 NASB). As we allow our faith to be observable in the way we live – act – interact, it is a testimony of all that is important to us. The things we do, our behaviors, must reflect what we believe. Words don’t testify as loudly as action.
Summer of Psalms – “God Comes Through – Always”
Psalm 121:1-8 CSB
“Hope is some extraordinary spiritual grace that God gives us to control our fears, not to oust them.” – Vincent McNabb
Today, there are so many things that can hold our attention and we will walk right by the place or person or situation we should be involved with. It is there that God can use us – our abilities, our experience and understanding, our strengths. And while we may be helping, the discovery of the real blessing is that we are the one that receives more than what we offer. That is what becomes a reality. Our task, if you will allow, is to follow the example of our Lord and Savior.
Summer of Psalms – “God Gets It Done”
Psalm 138
“Hardship often prepares an ordinary person for an extraordinary destiny.” – C.S. Lewis
Someone once said to me, “It’s easy to forget God in the middle of trouble or difficulty” – what a profound statement about the human condition. When struggles come, we tend to draw in and hold on in an attempt to endure. How many people do you know that are living like the kitten in that poster from the 1970’s “Hang in there Baby” … hanging on to life by fingertips, just looking for a fairly easy place to land.
Summer of Psalms – “Learning Where to Lean”
Psalm 111
“Why me Lord, what have I ever done to deserve even one of the pleasures I’ve known. Tell me Lord, What did I ever do that was worth loving you or the kindness you’ve shown.” – Krist Kristosfferson
I’m sure we all live with expectations. I would really like to tell you that I don’t. Expectations can certainly put us in some interesting places. It often leads to frustrations and disappointments. I know (and have experienced) that “expectations” can (and most often will) lead to a breakdown in relationships. Being able to live without expectations leads to less stress and worry – it seems that this is the way to be.
Summer of Psalms
Psalm 100
“What I see in the Bible, especially in the book of Psalms, which is a book of gratutude for the created world, is a recognition that all good things on Earth are God’s, every good gift is from above. They are good if we recognize where they came from and if we treat them the way the Designer intended them to be treated.” – Philip Yancey
What holds our attention often determines the attitude we carry and display. Do you have a reason to praise the Lord God? There are times it takes a paradigm shift. (this is definitely a timing thing…). There was an email that went around some time ago causing those who read it to reflect on 9/11. I bring this up because it came to mind this past Tuesday as I was doing my apheresis donation (it’s something I do fairly regularly). I noted to the tech how busy the donation center was… she told me it is always busy on 9/11.
Summer of Psalms – “What Have We Learned?”
Psalm 92 CSB
“God not only loves me as I am, but also knows me as I am. Because of this I don’t need to apply spiritual cosmetics to make myself presentable to Him. I can accept ownership of my poverty and powerlessness and neediness.” – Brennan Manning
It has been an incredible time of finding hope always, of seeing God’s faithfulness, and of learning about the truth of worship. I hope that you have been able to see, that God loves you and He climbs right into the midst of your stuff, so that you can have the experience of intimacy with Him.
Active Faith – “An Active Faith Is Obedient”
James 2:17-18; Hebrews 11:8
“You express love by obedience.” – Jack Hyles
Very often, choices are made on the evidence that is right there, in the moment. Making choices and decisions are a part of life. Think about it, the way life happens – things occur, with all kinds of twists and turns, and beginnings – restarts – ends. This requires us to make choices and decisions in each step of our journey.
Active Faith – “An Active Faith Makes A Difference”
Hebrews 10:23-25 NLT
“You were born to make a difference, to contribute and to share your gifts with the world.” – Darren Hardy
The message I consistently share with you is that our faith, our lives, must serve – love – touch others in a practical way. God’s love reaches man on real, tangible, levels. And our “ministry” (acts of service) must do the same. So, if I preach that way, I probably write and think that way. Practical messages that reveal the Lord God in ways we can relate to.
Active Faith – “An Active Faith Lives Grateful”
Colossians 2:6-7 CSB
“Gratitude looks at what is there, not what isn’t.” – Pastor Rick
Life that is marked by angst, anxiety, and anger pushes others away and shows little joy. Behaviors that show hope, help, and happiness (joy, delight) understand that each step we take is a privilege and we can choose how we are going to face them.
Active Faith – “An Active Faith Lives Free”
Galatians 5:1-6
“Free will is not the liberty to do whatever one likes, but the power of doing whatever one sees ought to be done, even in the very face of otherwise overwhelming impulse. There lies freedom, indeed.” – George Macdonald
Active faith makes a difference in the lives of those it touches. And an active faith lives grateful – it is expressive and worships the Lord God in real and practical ways. Living your faith is not something that is only confined to the four walls of the church. Leading and helping are great, doing things to serve is part of what we are called to do as believers.
Active Faith – “An Active Faith Finds A Way”
Jeremiah 29:11; Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalms 86:5
“True faith manifests itself through our actions.” – Francis Chan
What motivates you? There are several theories about what might motivate (inspire, provoke) individuals. On the most basic level people do things like going to work and helping others in order to gain “good things” – (i.e. rewards and things they value). Additionally, it would seem they seek to avoid negative consequences. Now, I’m not seeking to turn this into a psychological study. The point I am trying to get to is this, what drives you to live out your faith?