to gain admisssion

Monday, August 11, 2014

To Gain Admission

Scripture Reference:

• Acts 4:12 (NKJV): “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

A list of good deeds will not get you into any sporting event or concert on earth.
A 51% success rate of driving without an accident will not earn you a driver’s license anywhere.
Being polite, honest, or well-intentioned will not pay for your meal in a restaurant.
Good intentions alone will not secure you a job anywhere in the world.

So why do so many people assume that simply being a good and decent person will guarantee them a place in Heaven?

The truth is clear: salvation comes only through Jesus Christ. No amount of human effort, moral behavior, or good intentions can earn eternal life. Only by accepting His sacrifice and trusting in His name can we gain true admission into God’s Kingdom.

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Prayer and Encouragement

As we reflect on this truth, let us also remember the world around us. War clouds are rising, and our hearts must lift in prayer. Pray for Israel and for those on our “active military” prayer list. For guidance on how to pray, see the pray newsletter for suggestions.

Let us place our trust fully in Christ, sharing His love and hope with all we encounter.

God’s Rules of Engagement

Sunday, May 18, 2014

God’s Rules of Engagement

Scripture: John 11:45–53 (NKJV)

This passage provides a clear example of God’s “rules of engagement” in our lives. Even though God is completely sovereign, He respects human free will. As His creation, we have the choice to believe in the Lord Jesus and follow Him, or to reject Him and diminish His influence in our lives.

The good news is that God, in His sovereignty, accomplishes His purposes regardless of human choices — and even human sin. He works through us, with us, or sometimes in spite of us, to bring about His perfect plan.

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What I Want You to Know

1. People really do have free will (John 11:45–46). God does not force our hearts; He invites us to choose Him.

2. Our free will often gravitates toward our own control (John 11:47–48). We tend to want to rule our own little kingdoms rather than be cherished citizens in God’s eternal kingdom.

3. God’s will shall be done, no matter what choices humans make. His plan is unstoppable and perfect, even when we falter.

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What I Want You to Do

1. Ask yourself: What will it take for me to fully surrender to God?

2. Reflect: Am I willing to trust completely in the sovereignty and efficiency of God?

Take a moment today to let these questions guide your heart and align your will with His. When we surrender, we participate in God’s glorious plan, and our lives become a testimony of His faithfulness.

The Thing That Matters Dear Heavenly Father

“I thank You for Your great plan, Father, and I don’t even have to know it. You know I’ve never had to know what You were up to. I’ve never been the architect, and I’ve never been the contractor. It was always a delight to just be a day worker — to do what You told me for just one day. Sometimes it was to stand in a very strategic position, and sometimes it was merely to collect garbage, but all of it was glorious when done for You and in Your name.”
— Margaret Gaines, former missionary to the Arab people in Jerusalem, 1964–1996

Reading these words stirred my heart, especially the idea that even the simplest tasks can be glorious when done for God. Life calls us to many different roles — some requiring courage and boldness, others consisting of everyday tasks we may take for granted. But whatever we do, when we do it as unto the Lord, it is meaningful and glorious.

• Loving your spouse and children with unselfish, sacrificial love

• Showing kindness to others even when it’s difficult

• Taking the time to do small acts that bring joy to loved ones

• Speaking words of encouragement and blessing

All of these actions, done with a heart toward God, are glorious.

Whatever your assignment today, I pray you give it your best. Live and love as though there is no tomorrow, and take a moment to look up and see the Father’s smile.

“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
— 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)

 Acts 24:16 (NKJV): “I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.”

Something truly matters to you — not a minor hunger pang or a small daily irritation, but something so significant that you’re willing to sacrifice, grow, and pursue it with passion. Some might call this your vision or passion.

Your vision is like a pair of 3-D glasses: people may see you weaving and bobbing and think you’re a little unusual, but you see things others cannot. That vision drives your actions and sets you apart.

However, a word of caution: vision leaks, and passion can fade. If you don’t commit to keeping what truly matters as a priority, life can become consumed with minor distractions. One day, you may realize you spent your time on things that didn’t truly matter.

Today, wear those “3-D glasses.” View your life through the lens of what matters most. Let that vision guide your choices, inspire your actions, and keep your heart aligned with God’s purpose.

Wherever you are

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Wherever You Are — Be All There

Scripture Reference:

• Matthew 18:2–3 (NKJV): “Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.’”

Why not be happy — at least most of the time? Of course, there will be seasons when happiness seems impossible. A few years ago, when my sister passed away, the grief was so deep that joy felt out of reach. Those days, however, are the exception, not the norm.

One characteristic I have noticed in genuinely happy people is that they live in the moment. They do not allow the past — even just a few minutes earlier — to rob them of the opportunity for joy. They do not let worries about the future steal the happiness of now.

I’ve seen this modeled in my own family. My dad, at 80 years of age, can find joy at the drop of a hat — even during life’s most difficult seasons. My wife of over 35 years is the same. Even in challenging times, she finds a way to laugh and bring joy into our lives. Her happiness is contagious, reminding me that the secret lies in living fully in the moment.

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Thursday, May 22, 2014

Wherever You Are — Be All There (Part 2)

Since becoming a grandparent, I’m learning this principle even more deeply. The world can be falling apart, but all my grandchildren want is a cookie and a hug — right now. Sharing these moments, giving a little “papa sugar,” and offering a “bear hug” reminds me that nothing breeds happiness like fully embracing the present.

Perhaps this is why Jesus said we must be like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven. Children naturally live in the now — unburdened by the past or anxious about the future.

I’ll admit, I am still learning this principle. At times, the backwash of yesterday or the tide of tomorrow steals my happiness. But I’m improving, and it is a choice — one that we can all make today.

Let us choose to be happy today by living fully in the moment. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is uncertain, and right now is a gift. Wherever we are, let’s be all there — joyfully, fully present, and alive in the moment.

Could You Turn Down $350,000.00?

Monday, May 19, 2014

Could You Turn Down $350,000?

“The following entry is from 2011, and it seems especially relevant for this season.”

Quote: “Money is good only if you really need something.” — Larry Bird

Jill Leone, Larry Bird’s agent, recalled that he once turned down $350,000 for an endorsement while with the Celtics. Bird explained: “If I miss my afternoon nap, I won’t be rested enough to play my best.”

Though he may not have realized it, Larry Bird was practicing what we might call Sabbath living — the courage to set limits, finish responsibilities, and embrace restorative rest.

You might think, “That was easy for Larry Bird; he made millions playing basketball.” But for Christians, it can be even easier. We trust in our Father God, who promises to withhold no good thing from us (Psalm 84:11) and to provide, protect, and bless us far beyond what we could imagine (Ephesians 3:20). True rest and wise boundaries flow naturally when we rely on God’s provision rather than chasing worldly gains.

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Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Take Action!

Scripture Reference:

• Colossians 4:5 (NIV): “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.”

Planning, preparing, and praying are all valuable and necessary, but there comes a time when action is required. Today, choose to take one wise step toward addressing the challenge in front of you.

Remember, the faithful accumulation of small, wise actions eventually leads to meaningful progress. Don’t wait for perfection or the “right moment.” Do something today — even a tiny step can move you closer to God’s purpose for your life.

Necessary Sins

Here’s a sermon titled "Necessary Sins?" that explores the idea that some sins, though often dismissed or excused, are not as “harmless” or “necessary” as we might think. This is meant to be both convicting and full of grace, helping the congregation examine hidden or culturally acceptable sins.

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Sermon Title: Necessary Sins?

Text: Proverbs 14:12 – “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”
Theme: No sin is “necessary” when we have a Savior who frees us.
Tone: Honest, convicting, hopeful

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Introduction: The Lie of the "Necessary Sin"

We’ve all heard it… or maybe even said it:

• “Everyone does it.”
• “It’s not that bad.”
• “I can't help it.”
• “It's just how I cope.”
• “It's necessary to survive in this world.”

Some sins don’t get called sin anymore — they get called strategy, personality, or even self-care. But Scripture never gives us permission to rename sin into something more acceptable.

Let’s talk about the sins we tolerate — the ones we justify, excuse, or even call necessary.

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1. The Myth of "Harmless" or "Acceptable" Sin

There are certain sins that many believers no longer wrestle with — because we’ve decided we can live with them:

• Gossip – “I just need to vent.”
• Lust – “I’m not hurting anyone.”
• Bitterness – “After what they did to me?”
• Pride – “Well, I am better than most people.”
• Lying – “It’s just a white lie.”
• Greed – “I’m just being responsible.”

These are often called “respectable sins” – they don’t raise red flags in our churches. But Scripture makes no distinction between "big" and "small" sins when it comes to the effect on our hearts and relationship with God.

🡺 Proverbs 14:12 reminds us that just because it feels right doesn't mean it is right.

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2. Sin Is Never Necessary – But Grace Always Is

Here’s the truth: No sin is necessary, because grace is always available.

🡺 1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear…”

God always provides a way out — not by our strength, but through His Spirit.

The lie of the enemy is: “You need this sin to get through life.”
The truth of Jesus is: “You need Me to get through life — and I am enough.”

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3. What’s the Cost of These “Necessary” Sins?

• They numb our conscience
• They limit our spiritual growth
• They damage our relationships
• They diminish our witness
• Worst of all — they distance us from God

Sin doesn’t just break rules; it breaks relationships. It pulls us away from the One who loves us most.

🡺 Hebrews 12:1 – “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles…”

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4. So What Do We Do?

a. Name the Sin

You can’t defeat what you won’t define. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what you've been calling “necessary” that Jesus actually died to free you from.

b. Repent Honestly

Repentance isn't shame — it's freedom. It's saying: "God, I want You more than I want to protect my habits."

🡺 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive…”

c. Receive Grace Daily

Jesus doesn’t just forgive you once. His grace empowers you every day to live free. You're not1 alone in the fight — the Spirit of God lives in you.

d. Get Accountable

Sin grows in the dark. Bring it to the light. Walk with other believers who will pray with you, not play with your sin.

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Conclusion: You Don’t Need That Sin – You Need a Savior

If sin were truly necessary, then Jesus died for nothing.
But because Jesus died, sin no longer has to be your master.I 

So today:

• Let go of what feels necessary.
• Cling to the One who is truly necessary.
• Walk in the freedom He already bought for you.

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Call to Action / Altar Call (optional):

Ask:
“What sin have you been calling necessary that Jesus is calling you to lay down?”

You can open the altar (or call for personal reflection/prayer) and invite people to respond honestly.

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Would you like a shorter version, youth version, or a small group discussion guide based on this sermon?I ∫I 

encouraging word

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
	- Colossians 3:12 (NLT) | View in Context