God Loves You

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

To everyone that is watching

Merry Chrismas and a happy New Year !!!!!!!

Encouraging Word - Luke 2:10-11 (NLT)

but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!

~ Luke 2:10-11, NLT

Encouraging Word - John 14:27 (NLT)

I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid.

~ John 14:27, NLT

Encouraging Word - Matthew 11:30 (NLT)

For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.

~ Matthew 11:30, NLT

Celebrate Jesus' Birth with "The Christmas Story" Plan

One Week to Christmas

Looking for a great way to focus on the birth of Jesus? Try “The Christmas Story” Plan from YouVersion. This simple 5-day plan chronicles the humble beginnings of our Savior, connects us with His arrival as “God with us,” and ends with a celebration of His birth. Today is a great day to start reading “The Christmas Story”!

Share the Christmas Story with Your Kids

Your kids will love exploring the story of Jesus’ birth in “The First Christmas Gift,” just one of the stories they’ll find in the Bible App for Kids. Installed on more than a million devices during just its first week, the Bible App for Kids draws in children of any age, with colorful artwork and fun, touch-activated animations. Download and share the Bible App for Kids now at bible.com/kids.

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

The Life of Job - Part 3

Sermon: The Life of Job – Part 3

Theme: Facing Trials with Integrity

Scripture References:

Job 1:13-19 – Job loses his children, possessions, and livestock.
Job 1:20-22 – Job’s response to suffering.
James 1:2-4 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Introduction

Job’s story is one of profound loss and unwavering faith. In Part 3 of our series, we focus on how to face trials with integrity and trust God even when circumstances are overwhelming. Job demonstrates that faith is not dependent on blessings but on trust in God’s character.

1. Understanding the Reality of Trials

Scripture: Job 1:13-19
Illustration: Life can be unpredictable, like a sudden storm that destroys crops or damages homes. Job experienced unimaginable loss in a single day, yet his faith remained intact.
Application: Understand that trials are a part of life. Prepare your heart to remain faithful when unexpected difficulties arise.

2. Responding to Suffering with Faith

Scripture: Job 1:20-22
Illustration: A tree struck by strong winds may lose its leaves but remains rooted. Job fell to the ground in worship and praised God despite his loss.
Application: When tragedy strikes, respond with worship and trust rather than despair. Faith in God’s sovereignty brings peace amidst chaos.

3. Trials Refine Character and Faith

Scripture: James 1:2-4
Illustration: Gold is purified by fire, and faith is strengthened by trials. Job’s integrity was tested, and he emerged stronger and more steadfast.
Application: See trials as opportunities for growth. Allow God to refine your faith through difficulties and build spiritual maturity.

Practical Lessons from Job

Accept the Reality of Trials: Life will have challenges, but they are opportunities for growth.
Respond with Faith: Praise and trust God even when circumstances are difficult.
Allow Trials to Refine You: Let hardships strengthen character and faith.
Persevere Through Testing: Endurance proves and deepens your relationship with God.

Conclusion / Call to Action

Job’s life teaches us that faith is not dependent on comfort or prosperity but on trust in God’s character. When trials come, we can respond with integrity, perseverance, and worship.

Call to Action:
Ask yourself: Am I trusting God in the midst of my trials? Am I letting difficulties refine my faith rather than diminish it? Commit to facing challenges with integrity and trust in God.

Closing Prayer:
“Lord, help us to remain faithful when life is hard. Teach us to respond with worship, trust Your sovereignty, and allow trials to refine our character. Strengthen our hearts and deepen our faith. Amen.”

Sunday, December 15, 2013