Making Disciples

The Gospels “The Great Commission”

In all four gospels, we see in the last chapter of each book what they call: The Great Commission. That is when Jesus had risen from the dead, and was coming to the disciples before he went to be in heaven with the Father. In Matthew, Jesus says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” One of the last things he tells them to do, is to go and tell the world about who He is, and make more people who love the Lord God. To go and make disciples. So, that means we are to tell people about Jesus; to share our testimonies so other people can be saved. It does not say only pastors or teachers can do this, no, it just says go.

So, whoever believes in the name of Jesus, that Jesus is Lord and gives their life to Him, they are to go and make disciples. What does that mean exactly? It also says to teach and baptize in the name of the Lord. When you talk with someone about Jesus and they accept Him as their savior, then the teaching from you will come. To be invested in their lives; to walk beside them so they have someone to help them when trials come. Someone to say: “I know the way to get through this. Let us do this together.” We as humans were not meant to be alone, and do this thing called life alone. We are all connected because we are made in the image of God. If He says He desires to be with us, to know us, to love us, and He gave His life for us to have eternity, then we also are NOT meant to be alone.

We need each other in our lives to strengthen our faith. Iron sharpens iron, and so do disciples make more disciples. That is what the early churches did. They did not start building a church, then preach and teach. No, they preached, taught, and baptized wherever there was a need. They went and made disciples who made disciples who made disciples. See the pattern. We are supposed to be duplicating ourselves as Christians.

He said, “Go into all the world.” So that means we are to go where Jesus sends us, and then to make disciples. That is our mission for following Jesus. We cannot be a body of Christ that sits in church on Sundays or Wednesdays and then that is it. We go about our week doing what we want to, without giving thought to what we are called to do. And please do not say that God has not called you, because the scripture says we are all called. Jesus does not give a certain set of people these commands; no, it says to go into all the nations and spread the word of God, making disciples.

So, what can you do in your life that will help make disciples? How about starting with just one person, then help that person make one disciple. Start with sharing your testimony, your story, and what God has done for you. If you pray and ask God to help you, then He will place people before you that you can move on. Just take that step, and pray for guidance. Pray for clarity on who He has in your path. Then, take a leap of faith and go make disciples.

God bless.

 Pastor Rae Lynn Stands

God's Faithfulness

Sometimes as humans, we might ask: “does God really care about me?” or “is God really going to take care of me?” or even, “what do I need to do so God’s will for my life is done?” I know I have asked questions like that. It can be hard to trust God when things do not go the way we expected them to. It is hard when we try to make plans and expect God to make them happen. We see this throughout the Bible, as God’s chosen people struggle to understand God’s way of doing things.

In the story of Abraham, in Genesis chapter 12, God promises Abram (at that point) in verse 2, that He will make him a great nation, and that He will bless him and make his name great, and through his family, all families of the earth will be blessed.

Now, Abram believed God, but did not understand how this would happen, and neither did Abram’s wife. In chapter 16, she has her husband sleep with her servant Hagar, because she believed she was too old to have a child. She was trying to make God’s promise come to fruition by her own understanding. And in chapter 18, verse 12, she straight up laughed at God when He again said she would have a child. She found it hard to trust in God’s way of doing things because of her preconceived notions of how things work. But God was faithful. Sara did have a child: Isaac. And from this, we were given the whole nation of Israel, from whom Jesus the Savior of the world came. God did not miss or fall short on any part of that promise. There are so many instances of God’s faithfulness in the Bible: Job, Joseph, Moses, David, Jonah; all who went through what seemed to be impossible circumstances, in which God made seemingly impossible promises. Yet, God stayed faithful to those promises every single time.

My wife and I have just recently seen God’s faithfulness firsthand. Eight years ago, we moved into a small house that we rented in the hopes of saving up money so we could buy our own home. We both worked hard and tried to save, but it always felt like something would happen and we would be right back to square one. Then, my mom got sick, and I stopped working to take care of her. We were down to Merissa being our only income provider. She started her own cleaning business and kept working at the local McDonalds, but we felt paralyzed with fear that we would not have enough to pay our bills, let alone save for a bigger house. But her business really took off in such a way that after my mom went into remission, I was able to return to school to pursue God’s call on my life for ministry. However, our family had grown, and we were still in need of a bigger house but had no means to get a loan yet. Then, we were told our landlords were wanting to sell this house, and we did not have much time to get out. We were upset to say the least. We tried working with a finance company, but we were denied. It felt very hopeless. But through leaning not on our terms, but trusting in God, we did not give up. We could not. We petitioned to him daily, especially when it was hardest to pray; we prayed the hardest we could in those times. I called my brothers in Christ, not looking for answers, but for a brother to pour my heart out to. And, like a miracle, a brother in Christ who is a loan officer, was willing to help us. Now, we are getting ready to close and buy the house of our dreams to raise our boys in. There is still a lot of work to be done, but God has already shown us he has a plan in place. We felt bitter towards the situation at first, but without it, we would have missed out on the blessing God had for us. Now there were many ups and downs throughout this whole process - too many for me to cover in one devotional - but the main point is: not only is God very capable of taking care of us, but He has better plans for us than we do. Sometimes it feels like he has left us high and dry, but we do not see time and situations like he does. Our view is so limited. So, in conclusion, if you find yourself waiting on God’s promises first, do not try to make it happen yourself. That never leads us in the right direction. Second, know that whatever your plan is, God’s is better. And third, it is ok to get upset. We are humans. Meditate on the fact that God has never not followed through on his promises. It might not be in our time, but God will always stay FAITHFUL. God bless.

Brenan Hindermann

Make a Difference

            Make a difference in the time God gives you in this life. You may ask, "How?"

For one thing, you can pray for people you know who are going through things; pray for the salvation of your unsaved family members and friends. Talk with them about Jesus, and how He has changed your life. The difference He has made in your life. Prayer is so powerful and makes such a difference in people's lives. Prayer, prior to talking with people, can also pave the way to form meaningful relationships before they begin. Seeing the results of God's answers to your prayers is faith building. They may not be immediate; they are in God's time. It may not be what we asked for, but God knows what is best for all of us.

            You can serve in your local church. Volunteer to do something in your church. There are many places in church where you can serve. Ask someone who is already serving; ask the pastors in the church where you would be most helpful. If God gives you something to do that is not already being done, talk with the Pastor and see about getting it started.

            In Matthew 28, Jesus gives what is called the Great Commission. We are to "Go," and share the Gospel.

Matthew 28:18-20: 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV)

            It is our duty as Christians to go and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ! He sacrificed Himself in our place so that we could be forgiven of our sins, by the shedding of His blood. The Bible says without the shedding of blood, there can be no forgiveness of sins.

Hebrews 9:22: In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. (NIV)

            We are to go and share the Gospel. That is the command Jesus gave us before He ascended to heaven, where He sits at the right hand of the Father and He makes intercession for us.

Acts 2:34: For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said, “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand..." (NIV)

Hebrews 7:25 - Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. (NIV)

            We all have neighborhoods and neighbors. A lot of us go for walks in our neighborhoods. There are many neighbors we do not even know yet! We might know those on our block, but maybe we have not gone beyond that. As we go for walks, if someone is out, we can begin a conversation with them and start to get to know them. We can ask them if they have a church home, and if they do not, we can ask them to visit our Northwood Church. We can build relationships with our neighbors.

            God is good. He loves us. He has done so much for us; why wouldn't we serve Him? Out of our love for Him, and our gratitude for what He has done for us, is a good reason to start serving Him. I encourage you, as part of the Body of Christ - also known as the Church Body, to seek God in prayer; to look for where He is working, and join Him in that work. If we all do our part, it will not be an overwhelming task for anyone. We will all be working together for His glory, as the Body of Christ.

            God bless you! Thanks for taking time to read this devotion!

Vicky Conklin-Johnson

Prayer Ministries Director

Wax On, Wax Off

Greetings my Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus! I pray all is well. As I am sure you are aware right now, our church is doing a teaching series on the Armor of God. And I am positive with Pastor Tony and Pastor Ryan, you have heard these verses: Ephesians 6:13-17 NLT

[13] Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. [16] In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.6.13.NLT

But how do we do that? How do we put on the full armor of God? Well, before we explore that answer, I have a story to share with you. A few weeks ago, at a prayer service we were having at Northwoods - by the way, all of you are more than welcome to join us at these - Pastor Tony was limping and I thought that was weird. I'm the only one who should be walking like that! Anyway, I go to pray over Pastor Tony and, being his friend, I am well aware that Pastor Tony is a huge fan of movies. So, with that in mind, I smashed my hands together like so, and began to recreate the scene where Mr. Miyagi relieved Daniel's injury before his final match. Pastor Tony and I both had a good laugh before I prayed over his knee. 

The reason why I'm telling you this is because our God is the God of foreshadowing, and as I was preparing this sermon, he brought me back to that moment. Also, in Karate kid, the premise of the movie is: a kid moves to a new town where he gets himself in trouble with the leader of the local karate gang, and the leader of said gang wants to put Danny in his place. When they go to do so, Danny is saved by an old martial arts master who, at first, doesn't want to train Danny. But eventually, takes compassion on the boy and begins to train him in Miyagi Do, by way of painting and sanding. After the boy becomes frustrated, feeling cheated as though his time had been wasted as he had been deceived into doing free labor for the old man, Miyagi responds by saying sternly, “Daniel son, show me wax on.” Then, precedes to throw a punch, which Danny blocks by doing the motion for wax on, which he now has ingrained in him by the chores he had deemed pointless. Now equipped with the revelation of how much he has learned, Danny is able to take his training to the next level and go on to win the battle against his enemies.

Putting on the armor of God is the same; it starts with the practice of reading the Word and praying daily. Unfortunately, so many Christians - myself included - have neglected these two daily disciplines and viewed them as burdensome chores, not realizing that these two practices combined with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, are the foundation of our walk with Christ - or our wax on wax off.

You see, it is through reading and meditation of the Word that you learn Christ: with how He talks, walks, prays, teaches, engages and loves. It is through prayer that we learn to submit ourselves unto Him, and give Him control. You see, the armor is not separate pieces, but rather it is the Spirit enveloping you as a whole that you are no longer seen but Christ. 

May you be fully equipped in the full armor of God, not lacking in anything.

Blessings,

PDS

Checking Our Priorities

                We live in this world, but we are not supposed to conform to it and its ways.

“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Do not copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. You will then learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2

“Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Do not think you are better than you really are. Be honest in the evaluation of yourselves; measuring inwardly by the faith God has given us. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.” Romans 12:3

                Like it says in Luke 9:23: we must daily follow the Lord!

So, where do I think we should have our Priorities?

Let us look at this way of life we lead. First, it says in the word Matthew 22:37-40, that we are to make time for God first and foremost in our lives. Second, we must take care of ourselves so we can do the second command Jesus is talking about.

1.   God first.

   -Praying/talking with God. Sharing our thoughts, as he wants to hear from you.

   - Reading the inspired word of God. Knowing and doing what it says.

- Singing songs/Hymns and praise to our Lord and Savior.

(Now, notice how I put these three before this next one.)

   -Gathering together with like-minded believers. (Church)

God wants the Church body to be strong; to get this we must spend time with each other as often as we can.

2.   Yourself.

    - Spiritually, which involves the above.

   - Emotionally, which involves what we do and who we are around.

   - Physically treat your body good.

  - Eat good, solid food.

   - Exercise your body.

    - Rest— yes, we must get enough sleep.

   - Fasting, which makes our prayers more effective, and God speaks to us much more. Plus, it gives our bodies time to clean out, making us healthier.

3.  Our spouse and children.

   - Making sure we encourage the above for our spouse and children.

    -  Loving, nurturing, and guiding them in this.

  -  Giving them our time and presence by just being there.

      - Church (Gathering of like-minded believers) and not forsaking the assembly like it says in Hebrews 10.

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to perform acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”

How can we build a church if we are not there first, in front of our other activities? We have to be present at the church to build it into what God desires for us.

4. Hobbies, Sports, Activities other than the church.

  - Hunting, Sewing, etc.

  - Basketball, Football, etc.

    - Playing board games, video games, cards, etc.

   There is so much of the world that wants us to fall because it is aligned with the evil that comes from Satan. He seeks to seek kill and destroy us, but if we are constantly looking to God’s ways, his word, his people, it will not happen. We will stand if we build our foundation on the rock and have other believers constantly around us.

Keep in mind when we are absent, we are creating a missing part of the body that is important. Whether it’s a foot, leg, arm, an eye, or ear, we are all needed to complete the body so we can flourish as THE CHURCH!

        Just want all of you reading this to know: God Loves you and so does your Associate and Worship Arts Pastor Kent Furch. Until next time, Blessings to you all!!!

I will leave y'all in all with this: Romans 12:9-13, 9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. 12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.

Trusting God's Plan

God has a plan.  We might not always see it, but He does.  I've been thinking about that a lot lately, considering everything that has been going on in the world.

We don't always know what that plan is, but He has one.  Sometimes we find it out right away, sometimes it is a month or two later, and sometimes we never find it out this side of heaven.  But He does have one.

The issue is we often have trouble trusting in God and that He knows what He is doing.  We have no issue trusting people, ideologies, and things.  Stuff we can see.  Stuff that can let us down and fail us.  God will never fail us.  He will never let us down.  But we still have trouble trusting Him. 

Next time you are praying, ask God to help you trust in Him.  While it won't necessarily help make the situation easier, it will give you peace to help you get through it.

Lord, help me to put my faith and trust in You and not in things of this world. Amen

Pastor Ryan Canaday

Kingdom Exchange Rate

Greetings my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus. Lately, I have been reflecting on how God works. I have also been asking him to help me deliver a teaching on tithing and the will to, not only bring revelation to his people on the subject, but also to glorify Him in the process. While working with the Holy Spirit on this message for tithing, the Lord brought to my attention the story of when Jesus fed the 5,000 and how he used the lunch of a single boy to do it. In that moment, an inner monologue went off in my mind as if I was preaching to myself. Of course it was the Holy Spirit delivering the sermon in my mind, but it was in my preacher voice. And just to let you know, for some reason my inner preacher voice is that of a southern gospel preacher. I don't know why. Anyway, back to the revelation. 

Jesus is not only our provider, but he takes what we give him and multiplies it just like he did with the boy’s lunch. Here are a few examples from my walk with him: 

I surrendered my lust and he gave me an intimate marriage. 

I gave him my anxiety, he gave me peace. 

I brought him my burdens and weariness, he gave me rest. 

I gave him my anger and bitterness, he gave me joy. 

I gave him my foolishness, he gave me wisdom. 

I gave my 10%, he provided for his children. 

I gave him my works, which are rags in his sight, and he grows his kingdom. 

I gave him my life, which is a vapor passing in the wind, and he gives me eternity with him. 

There is so much more I could say on this, but my point is this: Trust in the Lord your God, Jesus Christ, your living Savior for you are deeply loved and do not listen to the whispers of the enemy saying that you have nothing to offer. For our God created the universe from nothing as we currently understand and even though the kingdom exchange rate does not make sense, he takes what seems like nothing and not only redeems it but multiplies it for his glory. 

As it is written:

26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”  1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Pastor Dakota Swinton

What is Prayer?

            Prayer is talking with Almighty God, The Creator. Can you imagine? We get to, GET to, talk with HIM, THE GOD who created EVERYTHING, who created US. It is amazing to be able to do that! Not only that, but when a person receives Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit comes into their life, literally into their being.

"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;" (1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV)

            There are many, many scriptures in the Bible that have to do with prayer. So many, it would take a long time for you to read this devotion. So, I've just brought a few in for you.

            So, what kinds of conversations can a believer have with God? When you have a problem, you can talk with God about it. You can pray for others - interceding for them. Asking God to heal them, get them through a tough time.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6 NIV)

            What about a non-believer? Their conversation may be one-sided, meaning they do all the talking.

            Sometimes, God speaks to one of His believers to bring a message to someone. To the prophet Jeremiah:

"1Early in the reign of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word came from the Lord: 2 “This is what the Lord says: Stand in the courtyard of the Lord’s house and speak to all the people of the towns of Judah who come to worship in the house of the Lord. Tell them everything I command you; do not omit a word. 3 Perhaps they will listen and each will turn from their evil ways. Then I will relent and not inflict on them the disaster I was planning because of the evil they have done..." (Jeremiah 26:1-3, NIV)

            You can praise and worship God, as a form of prayer. He deserves all of our praise and worship, and glory!

Ezra praised the Lord, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, “Amen! Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground." (Nehemiah 8:6, NIV)

King Hezekiah and his officials ordered the Levites to praise the Lord with the words of David and of Asaph the seer. So they sang praises with gladness and bowed down and worshiped. (2 Chronicles 29:30, NIV)

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (Psalm 100:4, NIV)

            Below are the public domain lyrics to a hymn written by Joseph Medlicott Scriven titled,

What A Friend We Have In Jesus

1 What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer!

2 Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer! Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer!

3 Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge--
take it to the Lord in prayer! Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he'll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

            The most important prayer you could ever pray is the prayer to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. I hope you sincerely pray this prayer.

            Sinners' Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am a sinner. I receive you  as my Lord and Savior. I ask you to forgive me of all my sins. Thank You Jesus! In Your Name I pray! Amen!

            Now that you have received Jesus as your Lord and Savior, contact us or someone in a Bible believing, Bible preaching church near you and let them know you have done this wonderful thing. Ask them what the next steps are for your walk with Jesus. If you don't have a Bible, ask them for one. Begin reading it, and God will reveal Himself to you more and more. Pray to Him every day and learn to hear His voice.

Thanks for reading this devotion. I hope God has blessed you with it!

Vicky Conklin-Johnson

Prayer Ministries Director

Glory in Tribulation

“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” ~Romans 5:3-5 NKJV 

“Glory in tribulations....”, this can sound like an impossible feat! What does that even mean? How are we supposed to be happy and joyful when we go through hard times?  Why would God want us to “glory in tribulation”? 

When we are saved, that doesn’t mean that our life is suddenly perfect, and everything is going to be happily ever after on earth.  We will still have those troubles come up in relationships, our finances, our workplace, etc.  The difference is, when those problems come up, it is not a surprise to God and He is with us through it.  Not only is He with us, but He knows exactly what we need to get us through, and He provides that!  It may not always be a quick fix, but He is always faithful and will never leave us or give up on us! We can “glory”, or be thankful, that He will be with us and give us the strength we need for those hard times. 

Another area that we can “glory” in when going through those tough times, is how we can grow and what we can learn from going through them. When faced with difficulties, we pray and ask for the strength to get through it and not give up but can also pray that God would show us what He wants us to learn from this situation. Some situations may help us develop patience, we might learn to trust God more fully, we could even learn practical things such as improved communication and forgiveness when going through relationship troubles, or better ways to manage our finances when facing financial difficulties.   

Every trial allows us to learn and grow, and the more we can learn and grow, the better we can help others do the same!  

Pastor Ann Canaday

Pray Continually

1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually”

Easier said than done sometimes.  While we usually have no problem praying during designated prayer times, such as during church, before a meal, or while tucking the kids into bed, it is other times that tend to be more difficult.  Times like when someone you love is being rushed to the hospital.  Times like when things aren't going quite how you want them to.  Times like when you are mowing the lawn.

Sometimes it is for good reason.  You are worried or concerned or panicking.  Prayer is the last thing on your mind.  Often in situations like that it isn't uncommon to turn to prayer later, after calming down a bit or learning more about the situation. 

Other times we turn to prayer in desperation, not knowing what else to do.  We need God's help and guidance after exhausting all other options.  We realize there is nothing else we can do so we turn to God, almost like a last resort.

Then there are the times when everything is fine.  The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and all is right in the world.  With no need to ask for God's help, we don't think to pray.

The Bible says to pray without ceasing.  Ideally that means that you would pray at all times, never stopping, but obviously that isn't possible.  What is possible however is praying whether we need to or not.  Praying when we are in danger and when we are at work.  We can pray at any time, for any reason.  It doesn't matter if we are asking God for help or if we are thanking Him, we can pray.

With God's help, our instinct in good times and bad will be to pray, no matter where we are or what we are doing.  Ask God to help you pray without ceasing.

Pastor Ryan Canaday

Leading Life with a Purpose

I believe I have been called to be a light to those around me. All those around me. Sharing God’s Word, His Love, and letting people know about His son Jesus Christ and what was done for us on Calvary is what I feel called to do.

Living my life with this purpose has been hard and at times very challenging. But knowing God is right beside me and He has gone before me is what comforts me and strengthens me. Having the Holy Spirit as a guide has gotten me to the place I think will continue the rest of my days!

What is your purpose in life? Has God shown you your purpose in life?

Go to Jeremiah 29:11. For God has a plan for you in your life and what you need to do is ask Him what that plan is. Is it something that brings life to you? Is it something that makes you feel good? Is it something that brings you joy? Is it something that helps others? Is it something that you have skills to do? I want to be the person that in all I do and say brings “Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. Against these things there is no such law.” Galatians 5:22-23.

God wants to bring life in all you do and to those around you. Ask Him what your purpose is. God wants to share His Joy with you. Ask Him for His joy in what you are doing. God always wants us to help those around us. Ask Him for boldness and a giving heart. Has God called you to do something with your skills? Do you feel lacking? Ask Him to help bring you an abundance of what you need.

You see once you understand that God wants to help you and those around you, it is then that you can live life with a purpose to show everyone around you what God has done for you and what God wants to do in those around you. God gives freely to those who ask and living life with a purpose is what He intends for us. We are not here by coincidence. Nor are we here to just survive, but He has so much more for you and so many blessings for you and those around you. Be that light God has called you to be and be effective only the way you can be. Let the Holy Spirit cover you and fill you and wash you clean and let us be so full of joy that it is contagious to everyone we meet! That is “Leading Life with a Purpose”. God bless you all who have read this and may he fill you with His Love and His ways in Jesus Name Amen.

Your Associate and Worship Arts

Pastor Kent Furch                                                                            

The Joy of the Lord

One of my favorite verses is “The Joy of the Lord is my strength” in Nehemiah 8:10. This verse has gotten so much use as I’ve gone through the different storms of my life. It's definitely not been easy but repeating that verse and reminding myself that it's not by my might or strength, but by His our King, King Jesus. That's what has given me strength. Life is always going to be a struggle of some kind. We will have periods of rest, of peace, and calmness. However, it will not stay that way.

So, one of the things I’ve been working on with God over the years is getting good at going through the storm with Joy. So many people think joy is an emotion, and it's not. Being happy is an emotion. That’s a feeling that can get confused with joy. But joy is a state of being, it's a choice we make when we go through the ups and downs of life. You choose to have joy and to say joyful things even when things aren't going your way. When life is hard, choose to find the good and the blessings in that day or event. It's about what I can be thankful for. What can I look for that is from God? And I believe that James 1: 1-4 really hits home on how it is teaching us to get better at going through the trials. Knowing that we can do it better because this verse teaches us how to persevere and become mature and complete.  It says, “lacking nothing”.

 I really believe you should allow God to teach you about joy and to have self control in the areas of life that get hard. Stop looking through your lens of self pity or negativity. Allow God to show you how to become someone who looks for the good, the positive and don’t be self-seeking. That in itself teaches us how to have joy. Because you are no longer focusing on yourself, but on the brighter side. You start seeing others and not just yourself.

 So, I encourage you when going through the trials of life to start finding those joy verses. Change your habits from self seeking to looking for blessings. What is good right now? That will change you into someone that learns how to have joy among the sorrow.

Blessings

Pastor Rae Lynn Stands

Are You Glorifying God?

Does all that you say glorify God? The Bible says, with the same tongue we use to speak praise to God, is the same tongue we use to curse man. It also says we should say things in a way that will build people up, encourage them.

James 3:9-10: 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. (NIV)

Ephesians 4:29:  Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)

We need to be practicing self-control one of the fruits of the Spirit, and others.

Galatians 5:22-23: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (NIV)

What about what you do, does all that you do glorify God? There is a saying, "actions speak louder than words." I wonder if that came with the "don't do what I do, but do what I say."

Matthew 5:16: In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV)

So we need to be very careful with our words and our actions.  We represent God Himself and His Word says we need to be holy, as He is.

1 Peter 1:15-16: 15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (NIV)

Leviticus 19:2: “Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them: ‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy. (NIV)

What about what you watch? Is that glorifying God? How about what you listen to for music, talk shows, does that glorify God?

Ask yourselves those questions, and really think about it, be truthful with yourself.

What does it mean to glorify God? My thought - to honor Him as God. We need to let others know that it is Him working in us in regarding our glorifying actions, as we submit to walking in the Spirit - His Holy Spirit. He is God and deserves our praise, worship, devotion, service. If we are not speaking in a way that is pleasing to God, in a way that raises Him up to others He is the only God, the true God, the God who created everything. He is the God who loves us, the God who does not want to see anyone go to hell. Yes, hell is a real place. Then, we are not glorifying Him. If we are sinning in any way, we are not glorifying Him. If we are watching something on TV or listening to something that we shouldn't be, we are not glorifying Him. Be careful what your eyes see. What you see goes into your brain and into your heart. If we are not walking in the Spirit, we are not glorifying Him. There is the old adage "garbage in, garbage out."

Galatians 5:16-17: 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.  (NIV)

How do you walk by the Spirit? Submitting to God, resisting the devil, again - practicing the fruit of the Spirit, getting closer to God through prayer and reading the Holy Bible. Get some of your family and friends to help keep you in the Spirit through fellowship with them, hold you accountable. Stay sober minded.

James 4:7:  Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (NIV)

1 Thessalonians 5:17: Pray continually. (NIV)

Galatians 5: 24-25: 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. (NIV)

Galatians 5:22-23: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (NIV)

Ephesians 5:18-20: 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV)

Colossians 3:16: Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (NIV)

Thank you for reading this devotion. I hope it is helpful in your walk with God!

Numbers 6:24-26: 24 The Lord bless you and keep you; 25 the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; 26 the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. (NIV)

Vicky Conklin-Johnson

Prayer Director

Shelter and Rest

I’m sure most of you would agree, life is not always easy! Pain, rejection, fear, loss, uncertainty, stress…all these things come up in our lives and try to wear us down. Often, we will look for something that will temporarily take our minds off of things or numb the pain. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, sex, or any other misuse/overuse; it might help us feel good or have fun for a little while, but it doesn’t truly take away that pain or loss. 

The great news is there is One that can!  Not only does Jesus know your pain and struggles, but He loves you so much that He wants to take it away and replace it with peace, comfort, joy, and love.  When we come to Jesus Christ, not only does He take us in and shelter us from the storms of life and the strength to endure them, but He offers forgiveness, a promise of eternity with Him, and unconditional love that heals any broken heart.

The following scripture is a beautiful reminder of this. I know that regardless of what is happening in my life, I am safe, protected and loved.

“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.” ~Psalms 91:1-2

Pastor Ann Canaday

Heart Condition

Greetings my dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus. I wanted to share a testimony with you of an experience that I had with a fellow brother in Christ. As we were traveling to our MNSOM class, we were discussing grumbling and the consequences it has on our walk and others, especially the effect grumbling has on leadership. We were led by the Holy Spirit to the exodus of the Israelites and the effects that the grumbling of the Israelites had on Moses. 

1. Firstly, having a grumbling heart can prolong us from receiving what God has for us.

The grumbling of the Israelites caused the journey to the promise land to be extended to 40 years when it was only meant to be around 11 days. 

2.  Secondly, a grumbling heart can blind us from what is right in front of us.

The grumbling of the Israelites led to a portion of them dying from eating the quail when the Lord had provided them manna. A grumbling heart can blind us from what is right in front of us.

3.  Thirdly, a grumbling heart can lead to dissension and cause divisions.

The grumbling of the Israelites led to Aaron and Miriam doubting Moses and his ability to lead which caused Moses much grief and led to Aaron and Miriam being disciplined. 

4.  Finally, a grumbling heart saps the strength of those around us and can discourage our loved ones, leading them to operate in the flesh, the sinful nature and ultimately spiritual death.

The grumbling of the Israelites led to Moses striking the rock in frustration and taking credit for the water for which God provided this action. Moses could not enter the promise land due to this action and lack of credit to God.

Brothers and sisters, I would encourage you, if you are struggling with grumbling, examine yourselves with the guidance of the Holy Spirit that you may address your heart and repent. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18 (NIV) addresses how we are to conduct ourselves from day to day in regards to grumbling:

“[12] Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. [13] Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. [14] And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. [15] Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. [16] Rejoice always, [17] pray continually, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Thanksgiving needs to be practiced as it is a stance of worship to our Lord.

Brothers and sisters, James wrote, through the power of the Holy Spirit, about taming the tongue: 

“[3] When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. [4] Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. [5] Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. [6] The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. [7] All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, [8] but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. [9] With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. [10] Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. [11] Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? [12] My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.”

James 3:3-12 (NIV)

It is also written in James 4:11-12 (NIV):

“[11] Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. [12] There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?”

Before I conclude, brothers and sisters, I want to go back to the story of Moses not being allowed to enter the promise land. Many of us view that as a punishment, right? However, thanks to the Holy Spirit, I gained a deeper understanding of our Lord. God knows the motivation of our hearts. HE knows our heart condition, where we are and what we are facing. Moses was old; he was tired, frustrated and spent. There was so much more work that needed to be done. What was revealed to me is that as much as not entering the promise land was a punishment, it was more of an act of love and mercy to Moses. He would enter the Lord's rest and be delivered from a grumbling, disobedient and stiffnecked people.

Brothers and sisters, words cannot express the joy I experienced in the revelation I received from the Holy Spirit. How thankful am I that we have a loving Heavenly Father. My words cannot fully express this love. I am grateful that He has placed me in a position in which I am able to share my joy in Him with you and the insight HE has blessed me with. Our God is so good! GLORY BE TO GOD ALMIGHTY!

I pray this word finds you well and may the grace and joyous favor of our Lord Jesus Christ, the unambiguous love of God, and the precious communion that we share in the Holy Spirit be yours continually! 

Pastor Dakota Swinton 

Make Life Count!

                      

The struggle is real when we encounter people. We all have our set of opinions and life influences that affect our decision-making process. The best way to look at things is to try and look through and into things and see people through the lens of the eyes of Jesus Christ.

How did Jesus Christ do things? How did he treat people?  How did he go from here to there? Read John 4 and see how Jesus a Jew treated a Samaritan woman. The fact that Jews were not supposed to talk with Samaritans didn’t stop Jesus. Nor did the fact that she had several husbands making her status the low of the low. How would you treat someone of that social standing? How have you treated people like that?

Our first words when meeting someone can be the time that person may come to open their hardened heart and seek to know Jesus. I know I would have in previous encounters, being honest, would have thought, “oh she’s one of them kind of women”.  There is no way I would have been able to talk with her at all, but now Jesus has changed my heart and molded me enough to care about everyone so I can be of help to someone in need.

At one time, I sometimes saw others as hopeless or worthless. God reminds me how hopeless I was and how many times I have fallen short in all I do and speak. We all fall short of the Glory of God and need Jesus as our Savior.

 Are you willing to set your opinions aside to help someone? Are you willing to stay where God has planted you? Are you willing to go where God has called you to go? Are you willing to say Love into someone’s life? Are you willing to sacrifice a dollar to help someone who needs food to eat? Are you willing to sacrifice your time to help someone? Are you willing to give everything God has given you to that person that so desperately needs it? You already know of the blessings in your life that has come from God. Are you willing to care enough to act with what God has given you?

Stand Firm in your Faith. Serve the Lord with all you’ve got. Share the abundance God has given you. Give to those in need. Pray for people. Fast so that God opens your eyes wider than before, and you receive revelation.

Are you storing up your treasures here on earth where they will go to waste? You need to start storing your treasures up in heaven and putting some bling in your crown. Quit worrying because God provides. Ask and it shall be given. Ask, seek, and knock on the door so it can be opened.  

Why do you judge others when you fall short yourself? Narrow is the gate we choose, and it may be tough, but cast away your burdens. What kind of fruit are you bearing? Are you a wise builder who builds your house on the rock Jesus Christ, that is the firm foundation? Or are you that foolish one who goes with the flow to the wide gate with all the flashy things of this world? Are you headed for the Fiery Furnace?

God sees your potential, do you? Use everything you can that God has given you to help the people around you. Do what God is calling you to do. Be strong and courageous. Use every opportunity given to you by the Lord. Choose to do the right thing! That’s MAKING LIFE COUNT! 

  God Bless You All!  Your Associate\ Worship Arts Pastor Kent Furch

God Never Changes

People change.  As they grow older, they change physically.  As they learn new things their way of thinking can change.  It is not uncommon to hear that, after a traumatic event, someone "changed their ways".

The weather changes.  Anyone living in Minnesota knows this well.  We can experience all four seasons in a single day.  Even for people not living in Minnesota, the seasons still change from Winter to Spring to Summer to Fall.  Even lighting can change as clouds roll in and out or the sun rises and sets.

Everything changes.  There is a line in the song "Tom Sawyer" by Rush that says, "Changes aren't permanent, but change is."  It is something that we can count on.  Sooner or later, things change.

 In fact, there is only one thing that never changes.

God.

In James 1 it says, He does not change like the shifting shadows.  In Psalms 102 it says, He will remain the same, His years never end.  In Malachi 3 God is quoted as saying "Because I the Lord do not change…"  These and several other verses throughout the Bible speak of God's unchanging nature.  

For some, that might hard to understand but think about this.  The God that made the heavens and the earth is the same God who is listening when we pray.  The God that put the stars in the sky and separated the night from the day is the same God who is waiting for us with open arms, waiting for us to ask Him to forgive us and guide us.  The God that made the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea is the same one that loves each and every one of us.

God never changes.  He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Pastor Ryan Canaday

Love Jesus More

In John 14:21 Jesus says, “Those who except my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And,because they love me, my father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

 Before I became a Christian, I used to live a life of drinking and doing drugs. And after years of prompting by the Lord, I finally excepted Jesus into my heart.

 But, even though I had excepted Jesus into my heart, I was still having a hard time  giving up smoking marijuana. Finally, after months of still smoking, I felt a conviction on my heart. I had to ask myself, or maybe the Holy Spirit was asking me,” who do I love more?”  Do I love Jesus more? Or do I love marijuana more? And the answer was, I love Jesus more. So right then and there, I gave up smoking marijuana.

 People that knew me back then, used to wonder how I gave up smoking marijuana, because I smoked it so much. And the answer was, and is, because I love Jesus more. Amen!

 And ever since, the Lord has always revealed himself to me. Even when he didn’t have to. Blessed be His name!

 God is Good!! Amen!

Pastor Perry Stands

Lukewarm

When you first think about the word lukewarm, you probably don't think about God or what it means beyond the water running from your faucet. But the Bible describes it as something negative in Revelations 3:14-22. Verse 16 it says, “So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”  It sounds harsh, but if you look further into the verse, you realize it means that someone may believe Jesus is real, but it doesn’t go much further for them. It only goes skin deep. Unless of course there's trouble in their lives. Then suddenly they start praying, asking for a change and listening to God’s music or reading the Bible. But when the storm is over, or they get what they need, all the praying stops and they go back to the same person as they were before. They forget the things they were promised or the reason for the blessings.

The Bible says even the devil believes so simply believing isn’t enough. James 2:18-26 talks about the fact that we need faith with our works to show we are followers of Christ. Because if you love God you will work to follow Him. Everyone's walk with God looks different. We all have gone through different traumas, experiences, hardships or struggles in our lives that will bring us to different goals. So do not compare yourself to another person, because what you went through is different than what they may have gone through. You will deal with something easier or harder than the next person. God wants us to follow Him, not someone's else's version of their story. We are all unique and special because we are creations of God. He wants to use us for His glory. So, comparing ourselves to another will dim the light God has in us because we have a unique purpose and reason for being here. Our purpose will look different from someone else's, but we should always be bearing the fruit of the Lord. Jesus should be seen coming through our lives not just from our mouths. Other people should be able to see the faith, see the works, see the Jesus in you. If you're in the beginning of your walk with God, remember that as long as you are seeking God's direction every day, He is walking with you. Even when you make mistakes, repent, and start anew. What God asks all of us to do daily is to renew a right spirit in us from Him.

Blessing,

Pastor Rae Lynn

Keep Your Word

Greetings my brothers and sisters in Christ,

I pray this message finds you well. In my walk with Christ over the past couple weeks, I have been faced with many trials and temptations with discipline and correction, as well as many revelations, one being the importance of knowing the Word of God so when the enemy is screaming at you lies and temptations you will be able to recognize the voice of the Holy Spirit reminding and guiding you in truth when we are tempting to go the way that seems right but leads to death. I have also been reminded of the importance of waiting on the Lord before making any kind of decision, whether it be small or large. For if we do not learn to go to God with the things that seem small and insignificant, how do we know to go and recognize him with the big and overwhelming things? As it is written:

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. Luke 16:10 NIV

As I said, I have been through many trials as of late and my character has been tested immensely, yet I am grateful for it is written:

"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:6-7 NIV

With all this being said, I want to share with you a lesson the Lord walked me through. With these trials, I faced the temptation to withhold something I had given my word to give. As I went to the Lord in prayer over this situation, I was led to these scriptures.

"When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it. Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, “My vow was a mistake.” Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands?" Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 NIV

“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. Matthew 5:33-37 NIV

“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you; the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you." Matthew 21:28-31 NIV

And then, finally I was led to the story of Anaias and Sapphira which reads:

"Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife’s full knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet. Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.” When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him. About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. Peter asked her, “Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?” “Yes,” she said, “that is the price.” Peter said to her, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.” At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events. Acts 5:1-11 NIV

And I will ask you dear brothers and sisters the same question the Holy Spirit asked me: Do you need such an extreme example as Anaias and Sapphira to keep your word? Or will you be a child of the Lord and be one of integrity and high reproach?

Brothers and Sisters, we are to live out this life as ambassadors of Heaven, to be carriers of the light of Christ to be images of the highest God. I implore all of you, if you are struggling to keep your word, repent and go to the Father to be corrected and built up that you may be men and women of integrity, not just hearers of the Word but doers also.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always and may his peace be with you.

Pastor Dakota Swinton