Cornerstone Church Anaheim

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2010-09-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-08T01:00:00.000-07:00

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Jeremiah. 42-44; Psalm. 48; Revelations. 13

“I can’t hear you!” Jeremiah 42-44

Have you ever been in a situation or place where you really wanted out?

The remnant of Judah found them in a land that was unstable and fear was becoming the driving force in their decisions. They were desperate and with a sincere heart, they asked the prophet Jeremiah to petition the Lord for direction and what they should do.

Then they said to Jeremiah, "May the LORD be a true and faithful witness against us if we do not act in accordance with everything the LORD your God sends you to tell us. 6 Whether it is favorable or unfavorable, we will obey the LORD our God, to whom we are sending you, so that it will go well with us, for we will obey the LORD our God." Jeremiah 42:5-6 (NIV)

A promise to listen and obey and yet we read that when the answer came, they refused to accept it because it conflicted with what they had already decided to do. They rejected the word of the Lord and plugged their ears to His instruction. “I can’t hear you, God!”

What a tragedy and a great lesson for us today. As we look for answers and direction, let us not have our mind already made up. Let us be sure we are not asking for God’s insight in an area just to validate or agree with a decision that we wanted all along. This means we read the scriptures and let it speak to us. Let the Word of the Lord instruct our lives in the way we should go. Let us be a people who not only seeks the Lord daily but listens, trust and obeys His Word. He loves His children and He has our best interest in mind.
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8

God Bless,
Pastor Kim

2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40,41; Revelation 12

2010-09-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Both 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles end on a positive note with hope for a future, but an even greater hope and assurance is found in Revelation 12:11 - "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death".

Spiritual Warfare. What comes to mind when you read those words? Does it pertain to you or is it foreign to you? Revelation 12 gives us a picture of spiritual warfare. We see that a war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail. Afterwards the dragon, also known as the devil, was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Since then they have been warring against the Lord and His followers here on earth. No need to worry, we have overcome him by the blood of the Lamb.

Christ secured the victory for us by His victory on the cross. Yes, where the enemy thought he would finish off the Son of Man, the Son of God destroyed him. By taking our place, Christ redeemed us and gave us the authority, the power and the victory! Not by our works nor our own power but by His power, the power of His blood which still speaks today, we are able to fight the fight of faith and WIN!

We enter into this spiritual victory by the word of our testimony as we continue to steadfastly proclaim what we know to be true, His word and His works, what He has said and what He has done. We are witnesses to the truth and as we speak boldly we overcome the evil one.

Even so, in every war there will be a price to be paid and that price may include your life. Ask yourself: Do I love the Lord more than life itself? If so, the enemy of your soul must fight against someone who doesn't fear death and that makes you dangerous... that makes you powerful... that makes you invincible! He knows he can't win against those who truly believe that for them to live is Christ and to die is gain. If you don't love the Lord more than life itself then you are an easy target for the enemies attack. He knows that there are things that he can get you with because there are things in between you and your God. My suggestion? Grow in love with the Lord. As you do, things on earth will grow strangely dim and lose there grip on you. He is lovable, so draw near to Him and He will draw near to you.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

P.S. Join us tonight at 7PM for prayer and fasting at The Cornerstone Church
4905 E. La Palma Ave., Anheim, CA 92807

Next Reading: Jeremiah 42-44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13

He Shall Reign Forever and Ever

2010-09-06T00:04:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 29-32; Revelation 11

“We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.” Revelation 11:17

In Revelation 11, John is given a measuring rod and instructed to measure the temple of God and the altar and those who worship there. We know through Bible prophesy, that the temple will be rebuilt and they will reinstate worship and sacrifice one day. Today, if we look at the current circumstances, we would say this is impossible, but according to the Word of God, it will happen. At this writing, the temple mount is under tight security and Jews as well as non-Muslim tourists are discouraged from entering. “Christians and Jews may enter only four hours daily, and no non-Muslim prayer is permitted on the sacred site.” (Daniel Levin, The Last Ember) Palestinians’ deny any connection between the Christians and Jews and the Temple Mount. However, we know through Bible Prophecy as well as historical findings, that the Temple Mount is the place where we will see prophecy fulfilled. There are small groups of Jewish people who are preparing to rebuild the temple. One of the Ushivas, a school for the training of rabbis in the old city, is training these young men how to butcher the animals for the sacrifices according to the Levitical law. They are actually training them now for sacrifices, the offering of sacrifices. Therefore, it is something that they are very committed to and they would like to do it now. We visited one of these schools while in Jerusalem a couple of years ago, and they were reproducing temple articles of worship exactly as recorded in the Old Testament. We move on to Revelation 11:3-5 and read of two witnesses (one is the prophet Elijah but we are unsure of the second) who are sent to witness to the Jewish people. God never forgets His promises. “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) He loves Israel and He longs for her to receive His Messiah. Psalm 122: 6 says we are to “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem…” We are not just to pray for the peace “of” Jerusalem but that the Jews will have peace “with” God through His Son Jesus. Would you take a moment to pray for Israel? Pray for her peace and pray for the heart of Israel to open up to the gospel of Jesus Christ. “…the kingdom of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord of His Christ, and He shall reign for ever and ever.” (Revelation 11:15)

In Christ,
Carol

Next Reading: 2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jer. 40-41; Revelation 12

Ezek.25-28; Rev.10;

2010-09-05T00:30:00.000-07:00

Ezek 28:12-15

'You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. 13 You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz and emerald, chrysolite, onyx and jasper, sapphire, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared. 14 You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones. 15 You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you.

This has always been a very interesting scripture to me. Ezekiel is being told to speak to the king of Tyre these words. As he does we discover, either that king was a representative of, or actually Satan himself. We find He was in Eden. He was adorned with every precious stone. His settings and mountings were made of gold. “You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones. 15 You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you.” We have this picture of Satan that was created for something else entirely different until evil was found in him. Mankind was created to be the children of God and the only thing that can keep people from reaching that goal is to choose to worship the created (Rom 1) rather than the creator. So today I will be in my chair at 9am with you to worship the creator and declare We are the children of the living God the creator of all things and by being there we also declare we will never bow down to the created.

May the creator bless you and keep you as you honor Him on this day for great things He has done….

Pastor Jack

Next reading Exek. 29-32; Rev. 11;

Ezek. 20,21; Ps. 111; Rev. 8

2010-09-04T00:12:00.000-07:00

3 “Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 4 And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand. 5 Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.” Rev. 8:3-5

I have a drawer were I have saved some letters and drawings of my kids. We have those little plates with their hand prints. Memories of joys in time past. Have you ever considered that God has his drawer of memories they are memories of prayers in time past. God never forgets a prayer. Billions of prayers and not one has been forgotten. These verses in Rev. 8 tell us that the final judgment is a result of many of those prayers. Come Lord Jesus and let your righteousness reign. The prayers are varied but the fragrance was pleasant to the nostrils of the Lord and though we wait God is faithful. Don’t get discouraged God is collecting your prayers and to stall the answer but to wait for the right time. His time and your time, the best time to respond. Be faithful and faith filled for our heavenly Father has a collection that He will open some day soon.\

_Pastor Rick

Ezekiel 20-21; Ps 111; Rev 8

2010-09-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

"Because they had not obeyed my rules, but had rejected my statutes and profaned my Sabbaths, and their eyes were set on their father's idols. Ezekiel 20:24

We are getting another history lesson today of Israel's continued rebellion and failure to be obedient to the Lord's commands as he led them out of the land of Egypt into the wilderness. Take note that Moses and Joshua are not mentioned. We also don't hear of those who tempted the people of Israel. We are so quick to blame others for our actions. Is is not the fault of a pastor, teacher, parent, or government official that has led to our rebellion to not follow the Lord's commands. I think the idea the devil made me do it is not too far from many people mindset when it comes to them falling into sin. Let us take ownership for our rebellion on this day and receive his word. God is calling us to "Cast away the detestable things your eyes feast on..."v.7 Our reading in Psalm 111:10 tells us
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have good understanding. His praise endures forever!

Father forgive us for our rebellion toward you and your word. We call upon your grace and mercy and thank you for withholding your judgement upon us. You are a merciful and gracious God and we give you praise.

He is a gracious, patient and merciful Father,

Pastor Joe

next reading: Ezekiel 22-24; Rev 9

Ezek. 17-19; Rev. 7

2010-09-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

We’ve all seen a picture of a mighty eagle swooping down on its prey. Ezekiel 17 starts out with some great visual imagery of an eagle ripping the treetops off a cedar tree, ultimately showing a display of power that is sometimes bridled and sometimes unbridled.

Mighty conquerors are aptly likened to birds or beasts of prey, but their destructive passions are tempered by their desire to follow God's plans. Later we see God’s promise to us (Ezekiel 17: 22-24) as He talks about He Himself taking a shoot from the very top of a cedar and planting it. This tree will bear fruit and become a splendid tree because it is by the Lord’s design not man’s. As we go on in Chapter 18 we see that in our design and left to our own sin we will surely die.

Thankfully we have a way out. "Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live! (Ezekiel 18:30-32)

Through our repentance and relationship with Christ we are a new creation and can have eternal life and I thank the Lord for this gift and grace.

Blessings,
Pastor Jason

NEXT READING: Ezek. 20,21; Ps. 111; Rev. 8

Ezekiel 15-16; Psalm 70; Rev. 6

2010-09-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

In the book of Ezekiel, God’s initiative and control is expressed more clearly and pervasively. It is a book that sounds and echoes God’s sovereignty. The allegory in chapter 16 of an unfaithful Jerusalem describes the history of this people and their continual rejection of God. We see God’s forgiveness and rescue of a people who were not content with their love relationship with the Lord.
Our Lord’s righteous judgment and faithfulness in this portion of scripture speaks to us in these days we live. A true warning for us to see and then ask, “I’m I so easily persuaded to reject God’s commandments?”
Discontent can be the doorway that will lead us on a pathway of temptation against God’s great plan. When we are discontent, we might tend to go places we shouldn’t go or make alliances we shouldn’t be making. Several weeks ago Pastor Rick encouraged us to guard our hearts and to protect our ‘Heart of Worship.’ Prioritize going to church and staying connected with others. Let us commit to having our lives to be a reflection of His good work by serving in ministry and giving to others. Let us hold on to our covenant with the Lord and remember His faithfulness.
“Nevertheless I will remember My covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you.” Ezekiel 16:60

Be Blessed He is Our Covenant Keeper!
Pastor Kim

Next Bible Reading: Ezekiel 17-19; Revelation 7

Ezekiel 12-14; Revelation 5

2010-08-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

"For I am the LORD, I speak, and the word which I speak will come to pass;" Ezekiel 12:25

Observe with me how many times, in the three chapters we have just read, Ezekiel says 'the word of the Lord came to me'.
   Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying: (Ez. 12:1)
   And in the morning the word of the Lord came to me, saying, (Ez. 12:8)
   Moreover the word of the Lord came to me, saying, (Ez. 12:17)
   And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, (Ez. 12:21)
   Again the word of the Lord came to me, saying, (Ez. 12:26)
   And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, (Ez. 13:1)
   And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, (Ez. 14:2)
   The word of the Lord came again to me, saying, (Ez. 14:12)

I can identify with Ezekiel. Throughout my life I have been privileged to hear God speak to me, sometimes loud and clear, while other times in a still small voice. The words He has spoken have challenged me, guided me, comforted me, exhorted me, and even shocked me. Whatever the case might have been, the words have always been timely and needed. I don't know where I would be today if I hadn't heard His voice, therefore I cherish the simple fact that He Speaks. But not only does He Speak, what He says is always the truth and reliable. You can count on it, base your life on it, follow it and expect it to come to pass.

We do not serve a mute God. He speaks. Are you listening?

My prayer for you is that you would draw near to the Lord, expecting to hear from Him. I pray that you would get to know His voice, in such a way, so that you won't be mislead by the other voices which try to drown out the Lord's.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

P.S. Please share your thoughts and/or feelings with us by using the comment feature. We love hearing from you.

Next Bible Reading: Ezekiel 15-16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6

Created for His Pleasure

2010-08-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 8-11; Revelation 4

"You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created." Revelation 4:11

When reading both the books of Ezekiel and Revelation you have to be in awe of the glory of God. I do not think Spielberg has even scratched the surface with special effects in comparison to the majestic, powerful and extravagant glory of God. Here we see that the 24 elders surround the throne of God as they “worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne…” This will probably be one of the first things that we see when we get to heaven, as John did; the throne of God and cherubim about the throne of God, and the worship of God as He sits on His throne. They are declaring that God created all things, He didn’t just allow things to happen but He had a plan in mind and in His greatness, He performed all that He promised. Not only did He create all things, but also it is for His pleasure all things were created. It is important that we understand and accept that God created us for His good pleasure. We were not created for our own pleasure but for God’s. If I am trying to please myself, I am not answering to the purpose of my existence. However, when I seek to please God, then I am answering to my existence. The wonderful thing is that we find that when we live to please God we find great pleasure for ourselves. This is where happiness and satisfaction is---pleasing God. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) “If any man seeks to save his life, he is going to lose it, but if he loses his life for My sake,” Jesus said, “You will find it.” (Matthew 10:39) Living all for Jesus is the greatest life of all.

In Him,
Carol

Next Reading: Ezekiel 12-14; Revelation 5

Ezek. 4-7: Rev.3

2010-08-29T00:30:00.000-07:00

Rev 3:17-18
You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.

Every time I read this scripture it affects me differently I guess because I am in a different place every time I read this. This time in my life, I am getting ready to retire (I hope). As I look toward that time in my life finances become a very important thing. Since I prably will not win the lottery (one of my retirement plans) I am going to have to figure out how to live on what little I have for the rest of my life. Then I am reminded by this scripture again “You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing”. Those riches are not my needs. My need today is ”gold refined in the fire”, “white clothes to wear” and ”salve to put on your eyes” sometimes I just need to be reminded retirement does not happen here it happens in heaven when I am finally home with my King.

May God bless you and your family with ”gold refined in the fire”, “white clothes to wear” and ”salve to put on your eyes” All a free gift from the king of the universe.

Pastor Jack

Next reading Ezek. 8-11; Rev. 4;

Jeremiah 52; Ps. 143,144; Revelation 1

2010-08-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

Praying with the Psalmist

"Teach me to do your will, (not my own will Lord, at least not that which is outside of your best for me, rather YOUR will, that which is good, acceptable and perfect) For You are my God; (nothing compares to You, even though at times I may make the mistake of placing other things in front of you, those things are not worthy to have such a place in my life, I reaffirm that YOU are my God, my Lord and my God and I submit to your Lordship) Your Spirit is good. (and I thank you for the promise of your Holy Spirit, for filling me with power from on high, for giving me the boldness to step out in your name and make a difference in this world, You are GOOD, better than anything or anyone) Lead me in the land of uprightness. (for I am your sheep and I will follow wherever you lead me, may my life be a living testimony of your grace, mercy and holiness, cleanse me and help me to walk upright, by your power , for your glory) Amen. Psalm 143:10

Next Reading: Ezekiel 1-3; Revelation 2

Jer. 50,51; 3 John

2010-08-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. 3 John 1:5-6

I spoke on Sunday about the connection between falling in love with God and feeding the sheep of God. Here is the perfect example John says “you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. They were all about helping to comfort and support those that were passing through their city on their way to do the work and will of the living God. But I want you to notice what the missionarys told the church John says “They have told the church about your love.” Not how much they spent or what they gave them, but about their love. That is what these men noticed the love of the brothers I am telling you the truth if you fall in love with the living God it will rub off on whoever you touch and they will see it. Jesus said “They will know you by your love” and “by this all men will know you are my disciples”. The love for God rubs off. John commends them for sending “them on their way in a manner worthy of God”. What a great statement “in a manner worthy of God”

May God bless you and keep you as you fall in love with Him and as that love extends to everyone you touch may they may say of you I was treated “in a manner worthy of God”.

Pastor Jack

Next reading Jer. 52; Ps. 143,144; Rev 1;

Jeremiah 37-39; Psalm 79; II John

2010-08-25T01:00:00.001-07:00

It’s the Pits – Jeremiah 37-39

“It’s the pits!” is just another way to describe a bad situation or day. You know those times when things continue to spiral down and unravel before your very eyes. You almost what to look for a video camera because you are sure someone is just playing a joke on you. The prophet Jeremiah once again obeys the Lord and warns the king of Judah of certain calamity. Unfortunately, he is instantly labeled by some officials that he just being negative, causing discouragement among the soldiers. They decided to get rid of him and place Jeremiah in a cistern (a pit), sinking in the mud. Their goal was to kill him in a way that they would not be at fault. But someone saw this evil act and took a righteous stand. Ebed-Melech told the truth and rescued Jeremiah. Later, when the enemy did come to destroy and kill, God spared Eded-Melech’s life.

“But I will rescue you on that day, declares the LORD; you will not be handed over to those you fear. I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the LORD.' " Jer. 39:17-18

What a great lesson for us all to learn, even when we obey the Lord, sometimes we can get muddy feet. There might be a chance that we will be placed in an uncomfortable situation, maybe even a pit! God sees! He responds to our prayers and steps of faith. Let us rejoice because we are His children, He will keep His promise, even when our feet are covered with mud and it gets a little bit too deep!

Blessings,
Pastor Kim

Next Bible Reading: Jeremiah 50, 51; III John

Jeremiah 33, 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5

2010-08-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" 1 John 5:5

Overcoming the world. What a wonderful thought. We can be overcomers, but what in the 'world' are we talking about when we say overcoming the world? I believe John summed it up best. "For all that is in the world - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life - is not of the father but is of the world." 1 John 2:16

Back in the garden of eden our great grandparents failed to overcome the world. They came face to face with temptation in all three areas: "So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate." Genesis 3:6 As a result we became sinners, subject to the world.

The 2nd Adam, Jesus Christ, was taken by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted. There He faced 'the world' head on as Satan attempted to get a repeat of what he had obtained in the garden, but much to his surprise... failed. Jesus Christ overcame the world by resisting the devil through the power of the Word and the Spirit. All three options the devil threw at Him encompassed everything that is in the world and Jesus was victorious in all three. He did not bow to the lust of the flesh, nor to the lust of the eyes, nor to the pride of life. In so doing, He made a way for us to be just as successful. As a result, we can become children of God, able to overcome the world.

Through faith, being born of God, we overcome the world. Don't believe any lie that tells you otherwise. If you are a child of the living God, live as who you are declared to be by God your father, an overcomer.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Jeremiah 37-39; Psalm 79; 2 John

God loves you

2010-08-23T00:04:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 31-32; I John 4

“In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
I John 4:9-10

How do you know that God loves you? Look to the cross—that is all of the proof that you need. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.” (John 3:16). God loved us so much that He sent His only begotten Son to stand in our place to take the brunt of our sin and rebellion against the Father. Even while we were yet sinners, Christ died for the ungodly. He loved you so much; He desired fellowship with you so much, that He sent His Son in to this world to die in your place. To take away your sins in order that you might have fellowship with the Father. It was at the cross that God manifested His love. The entire purpose of God is so that we might have life and live this life to the fullest, in abundance. The Biblical definition of living is found in John 15, it is in fellowship or being one with God. If you are one with God, you are living. If you are not one with God, then you are dead. The world’s idea of living is that if your brain is working, you are living. If you are breathing, you are living. However, we all know that real life comes from a personal and vibrant relationship with God through His Son Jesus. Are you feeling a little lifeless today? Then allow His Spirit to refresh you and make you alive in His presence. Release the Holy Spirit’s work in your life by allowing God’s love to flow through you. Receive the gift of love, the gift of His sacrifice and know that you are His beloved, loved of the Lord. Abide in Christ and know that He has chosen you to bear fruit, fruit that remains and your prayers will be answered. "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” John 15:16

Next Reading: Jeremiah 33-34; Psalm 74; I John 5

Jer. 28-30; 1 John 3;

2010-08-22T00:30:00.000-07:00

1 John 3:1

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are, “children of God!”

"How great" John declares that we would be called the sons of the living God. John says that is because that is what we are. The other day I was talking to one of my granddaughters on the phone. I was playing with her (she is 4) and pretending I did not know who she was. I was saying “who is this again” and she was saying things like “it’s me” I said “me who” She said “don’t you know me papa I am your princess” Not a princess, not the princess, “your princess”. I think that is an incredible statement. That is who I am, I am a king, a priest in Christ Jesus, in Him and because of Him and for no other reason. In the reading of Jeremiah God says Jer. 30:22 'So you will be my people, and I will be your God.'" How great is the love of a God that would love me. Not just love me but make me His child. This morning I am teaching and the subject is “What does love have to do with it” The answer is everything (you get the answer early for reading the blog) because “God is love”

May God keep you and bless you and your family as you glory in His love and except the true measure of His gift by realizing we are the love children of the one and only living God….

Pastor Jack

Next reading Jer.31, 32; 1 john 4;

Jer. 21,24,27; Ps. 118; 1 John 2

2010-08-21T00:50:00.000-07:00

"Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. 2 Let Israel now say, “His mercy endures forever.” 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, “His mercy endures forever.” 4 Let those who fear the LORD now say, “His mercy endures forever.” Psa. 118:1-4

We are the only ones who can understand these verses, by we I mean redeemed human beings. Angels can only desire to look into this but only we know what it is like to receive mercy. Mercy is not receiving what you deserve. The greatest day of my life was when I first realized I was a hopeless sinner deserving of an eternal judgment but then discovered God’s grace and received mercy. Oh how merciful the living God is. It is past finding out. The psalmist in this verse breaks out in praise. “Oh, give thanks to the Lord for He is good! Yes he is and His mercy is proof. Who is as merciful as God? No one is. God is merciful and has always been merciful as part of His nature but as far as we know, no one had ever seen this part of the glory of God. Until Adam and Eve sinned and God covered them with animal skins his mercy had not had opportunity but once someone needed mercy God was there to cover them with Mercy. The Psalmist keeps repeating that His mercy endures forever. His mercy won’t stop tomorrow. You can count on his mercy as you wake up tomorrow morning, “it is knew every morning”. We need his mercy every day. Stop and thank the Lord to day that He is a merciful God. Let’s pass some mercy on to someone else today.

Pastor Rick

Jeremiah 48-49; Psalm 67; 1 John 1

2010-08-20T00:05:00.001-07:00

“Let the peoples praise you, O God; Let all the peoples praise you. Then the earth shall yield her increase; God our own God shall bless us. God shall bless us, And all the ends of the earth shall fear Him.” Psalm 67:5-7 Recently I have been praying the scriptures more often. This Psalm is one I have been praying and if you would like your prayers to be more powerful? Pray the Scriptures. Hebrews 4:12 says that God’s Word is alive and powerful, sharper than a two edged sword. When we speak and pray the Scriptures, we are coming into agreement with God, and His power is released to answer our prayers.
Maybe you feel like God doesn’t hear your prayers? Or maybe you don’t know what to pray for in certain situations. Scripture tells us we can have confidence when we come to the Lord. Not only does He hear our prayers, but He also promises to answer them when we pray in line with His will. When we praise Him, God shall bless us. It’s God desire for His people to bless Him and this should be the desire of God’s people. Make it your desire today to praise Him and I would challenge you to pray the scriptures and be confident that the Lord shall bless you.

Praying with You,
Pastor Joe

Jer. 45-47; Ps. 105; John 21

2010-08-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

JOHN 21: This chapter has always puzzled me. Why are the disciples fishing back in Galilee after having seen the resurrected Christ and being commissioned by Him? Then when they see Jesus how can they not recognize Him. “Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.” (John 21:4) After all, this isn’t the first time they have seen him after His death and resurrection. The first thing that always comes to my mind is, “shouldn’t they be out caring for the church?” Maybe they were taking a day off to go sports fishing. Ok, seriously my friends; Some day this might be clearer but for now we can clearly see Christ working in their lives. This starts with His provision to the disciples, “He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" “No," they answered. He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. (John 21:5-6) Jesus always meets us where we are at and takes us to the next level whether that is in provision or in spiritual development. He goes on to further affirm Peter and the call on his life even while seemingly challenging him three times.

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."

Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."

The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!" (John 21:15-19)

God has a place for all of us in His ministry so I ask you these questions:

What area of ministry has the Lord called you to?
What is the gifting you see or others see in your life that He has given to you?
How can you put those gifts to work in your church family?
How can you get started?

See you all on the ministry field.

Blessings,
Pastor Jason

NEXT READING: Jer. 48,49; Ps. 67; 1 John 1

Jeremiah 26, 35, 36; John 20

2010-08-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

Unexpected! – John 20
“Why are you crying, who is it you are looking for?” John 20:15

We have all experienced those unexpected phone calls; tests result from a doctor, a friend who is very sick, another unresolved conflict or maybe the death of someone dear. It is in these times we often begin to search for answers outside of our own resources. Many unanswered questions begin to fill our thoughts.
In this portion of John 20, the followers of Jesus found their world turned upside down and a deep awareness that Jesus was gone. It didn’t matter that He had told them that this would happen; they were left with hearts filled with sorrow and the reality that they were alone. When Mary went to the tomb and found the stone rolled away, fear and great sorrow flooded her soul. “Then Jesus said to her ‘Mary.” What a powerful truth! God knows our name and loves each one of us. He enters into our crisis and immediately calms the storm. There is a wonderful, caring and loving truth about the comfort that only our Lord can bring. “Peace be with you!” Truly, it is only His peace that can carry us through the tough times and the reality that He will never leaves us or forsakes us. Keep looking to Jesus and be encouraged, God is with us!

Blessings,
Pastor Kim

Next Bible Reading: Jeremiah 45-47; Psalm 105; John 21

Jeremiah 23, 25; John 19

2010-08-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

"It is finished!"

John continues testifying to the fact that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, by clearly writing the details surrounding the death of our savior, Jesus of Nazareth, linking Old Testament scriptures that prophesied of the death of the Messiah to Jesus. Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, the Anointed one.

God's master plan of redemption came to its climax on that cross at Calvary. Jesus, recognizing that the purpose for His coming to earth as a man had been achieved, said 'It is finished!' Nothing and no one could interfere with God's plan. Isn't it wonderful to know that even though the Lord allows us to have free will He still does not allow us to change His. Thy Kingdom come Thy will be done!

It IS finished, we need not work for our redemption, but we do need to believe so that we may have life in His name. It's time that we allow God to be God and simply follow Him as He leads us. We are to be fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. That can only be true for us as we commit our lives to Him. Yes, I said commit. Some fear commitment but that's the only way to truly become His. The demons believe in Jesus but are not committed to Him. Are you committed? I hope so, if not make that choice today.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Jeremiah 26, 35, 36; John 20

Rewards of Righteous Living

2010-08-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 24, Jeremiah 22, Psalm 112, John 18

“Praise the LORD! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, Who delights greatly in His commandments.” Psalm 112:1 “Surely he will never be shaken; the righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.” Psalm 112:6

Psalm 112 explores the blessings of the righteous. We were recently traveling through Italy. We saw so much beautiful artwork and masterpieces over a period of a couple of days that we came up with a little saying, “Just another 1000-year- old masterpiece.” Here in the United States if something is 200 years old we think that is old, but in the broader picture of things, we are such a new and fledging nation. Nevertheless, in Italy, these 1000-year-old masterpieces were everywhere…and we observed so many historical sites that were 1000’s of years old. However, to imagine that something will be everlasting---that stretches the mind doesn’t it? It says here in Psalm 112 that the ‘righteous’ will be in everlasting remembrance. The word righteous means, right, correct, righteous (as justified and vindicated by God), correct and lawful. I like to think of the word righteous as ‘right standard’ or ‘right way’. Pastor’s message today on Words 2B Wise, on discipline, falls right in to this category. Living a righteous life, one that understands discipline and the wisdom of delayed gratification, is a life lived by God’s standard and we read here of the rewards. The Psalmist reiterates the outcome of the righteous---that we will be in everlasting remembrance. As parents, we have great influence over our children. The most important thing we should be influencing them toward is living righteously—God’s right way of living. Really though, the thing that counts the most is living for Jesus and putting Him first and His standard of living. This is God’s dream for us— we will be remembered forever. “But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.” Matthew 6:33 (Amplified)

Blessings, Carol

Next Reading: Jeremiah 23, 25, John 19

Jer.18-20; Ps 93; John 17;

2010-08-15T00:30:00.000-07:00

John 11:38-44

Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. "Take away the stone," he said. "But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me." 43 When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go."

Many times we claim we believe the word of the Lord as Martha had claimed over and over again. But when it comes down to trusting we start to look at the practicality of the world. Martha said "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." We say I know I need to tithe but I really don’t have the money. I know I need to share the gospel with my neighbor but I really don’t know what to say. I know I really need to stand up for the truth at my work but every one will hate me. I know I need to do everything as unto the Lord but I am tired. There are a thousand examples of how God says one thing and the world and our past experience says that it will not work. But, today I choose to believe the world is a liar and even my own experience is a liar. Today I am listening to Jesus say "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" Today I am looking for the glory of God in the truth of His word. Let everything and every body (including myself) be a liar and let Gods word be true in my life today.

May God bless you and Keep you in His truth and the truth of His word as He applies His principles to our daily life and families. Let us be searchers and doers of the word of life.

Pastor Jack

Next reading 2 Ki. 24; Jer.22; Ps. 112; John 18;

Jer. 13-15; John 15

2010-08-14T00:53:00.000-07:00

"Thus the LORD said to me: “Go and get yourself a linen sash, and put it around your waist, but do not put it in water.” 2 So I got a sash according to the word of the LORD, and put it around my waist. 3 And the word of the LORD came to me the second time, saying, 4 “Take the sash that you acquired, which is around your waist, and arise, go to the Euphrates, and hide it there in a hole in the rock.” 5 So I went and hid it by the Euphrates, as the LORD commanded me. 6 Now it came to pass after many days that the LORD said to me, “Arise, go to the Euphrates, and take from there the sash which I commanded you to hide there.” 7 Then I went to the Euphrates and dug, and I took the sash from the place where I had hidden it; and there was the sash, ruined. It was profitable for nothing. 8 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 9 “Thus says the LORD: ‘In this manner I will ruin the pride of Judah and the great pride of Jerusalem." Jer. 13:1-9

Jeremiah received an odd word from God. Take a linen sash and put it here and there, get it wet, and bury it, and so on. What is this about? What is so amazing to me is that Jeremiah actually did it. Why would God ask him to do such a bazaar thing? Ours is not to ask why it is ours to do or die. Actually we need to die in order to do. It takes death to our will in order for us to do His.

Looking back at this story we can see that God was speaking to Jeremiah with a visual illustration. This helped the prophet to speak with great passion and help those who were listening to understand the message. God asked us to trust him. Give Him the benefit of the doubt when he has spoken to us and it doesn’t make sense. I have done a lot of things over the my years following Jesus that didn’t make sense. Most of those things had to do with going against the ways of the world. But it is on ware occasion that he has actually asked me to do something really bazaar. Like the time the Lord asked me to go outside at 11pm and stand on the street corner. It was a few minutes later that a young man walked up to me and asked about what the Bible says about the end times. I was able to lead that young man to the Lord. I wish I had more of those kind of experiences but the average prophet and Christian for that matter lives in the mundane where faith might not make sense but is obedience in day to day living. It’s being honest when a little white lie might give you the business deal. It’s living with integrity when no one would know if you fudged on your taxes. It’s turning off a tv program that is inappropriate even though no one would know.

Our obedience will never be placed in the pages of the Bible but it will always be remembered in the heart of the Lord.

God Bless,

Pastor Rick

Jer. 10-12; John 14

2010-08-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

John 14 is such an incredible passage filled with promises. I am always brought back to a sense of simplicity about the Gospel and the ways of the Lord every time I read this. Jesus lays it all out so well. First we see that Jesus is preparing a place for us and that the ONLY way to heaven is through Him. "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me….” (John 14: 1-6) The weight of verse 6 is enormous; Jesus is the ONLY way! As we read on we see the introduction of the Holy Spirit and all that He will bring. “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever- the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. (John 14:16-17)

I can only imagine the confusion the disciples must have had at this time with Christ talking about leaving and sending the Holy Spirit. Fortunately for us we have the printed Bible to read and we can see the “BIG BICTURE”. There is a deep joy and assurance, because of the coming of the Holy Spirit. We will be kept in Jesus and as Jesus is fully in the Father, we will also know the way to the Father. While we are here in this weak body made of flesh and bones we also have the Spirit of God inside us so we should be encouraged as we are not in this fight alone!

Thank you Lord for your Love and Grace….Amen
Pastor Jason

NEXT READING: Jer. 13-15; John 15

Jeremiah 7-9; John 13

2010-08-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

Servant hood - John 13

   Jesus gives us an example of true servant hood as he takes the water and washes the disciple’s feet. It is surprising to me that as Jesus moves to each disciple; no one speaks except for Peter. “Lord, you are washing my feet!” You see, this was a menial task and was usually performed by a servant. Since no servant was present and no one else assumed the role, Jesus used this occasion to teach a lesson in humility and selfless service. Ultimately, servant hood is a position of the heart and spirit which is then expressed in actions.“By this you will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35.
    When I don’t respond with graciousness to the opportunity to serve, it usually means the pressures of life has taken over and I have neglected time with my loving heavenly Father. It is these valuable moments in corporate worship, prayer and resting in His arms of love that rejuvenates my life and puts everything in right perspective.
   As believers, we have a calling to take up the cross and follow Him. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to give us the power and the opportunity to love others, His way and not on our own terms and conditions.

God Bless,
Pastor Kim

Next Bible Reading: Jeremiah 10-12; John 14

Jeremiah 5,6; John 12

2010-08-10T01:39:00.000-07:00

"Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save Me from this hour? But for this purpose I came to this hour. Father, glorify Your name." John 12:27-28a

Oh to live like Jesus! He lived His life 'on purpose'. Jesus' words: 'My soul is troubled' should comfort us by knowing that our savior knows exactly what it feels like to have to confront life, and death, in a fallen world, as a human. He understands us experientially. Even though He was troubled, He did not choose to avoid what was coming, nor did He desist from enduring the pain and suffering, but rather He faced it and came through it all victoriously. Why? It was His purpose. That was the reason He came. I believe we can also 'face the music' much easier when we know that we are doing exactly what we were made to do, living on purpose, God's purpose for our lives, so that He may be glorified.

Pray with me today: "Lord, thy kingdom come, thy will be done in my life." Be encouraged, even if you must face troubling times, and your soul is troubled, a life lived in His will, will most definitely bring glory to God and true life for us.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Jeremiah 7-9; John 13

True Worship

2010-08-09T11:39:00.001-07:00

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 5-6, John 12

Martha, Lazarus and Mary were all serving. Martha is serving people a meal; she must have had the gifts of hospitality and administration. Lazarus is eating dinner with Jesus and others and I am sure he was sharing his testimony and recounting being raised from the dead. Mary anoints Jesus’ feet. All of them are worshiping Jesus; all of them are serving in some way. “So he answered and said, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’” Oftentimes we view worship as only what Mary was doing—being at the feet of Jesus. But if you look at the New Testament reference to what worship is you see that it is beyond just an act of adoration and dedication to the Lord; worship is that and more. Worship is serving others as we are doing it as unto the Lord. Now the story of Mary makes for much better press. Just visualizing this woman kneeling at the feet of Jesus, opening her precious perfume and washing His feet; giving what amounted to about one year’s wages—it’s breathtaking. However, Martha doing dishes, washing off tables, setting tables, scrapping plates, now that is not so pretty. Nevertheless, it is beautiful to the Lord. Every time we give a cup of water in His name, is a beautiful act of worship to Jesus. “For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.” Mark 9:41 When our children were young and they would leave their stuff out I would say, “Hey, who do you think I am, your slave!?” One day the Lord spoke to me and the Holy Spirit convicted me when I said that and I heard, “Well, yes, yes, you are their slave, because you are there to serve them.” Understanding of course, I was their mom, but yes, I was there to serve them because that brings honor to Christ. So today, don’t get caught up in to thinking that worship is only being at the feet of Jesus—it is that (John 15) but it is more than that and we bring glory to Christ by serving others. Be blessed today in Him! “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:16-18

Next Reading: Jeremiah 7-9, John 13

Jer. 1,2; John 10

2010-08-08T00:30:00.000-07:00

John 10:27-30

7 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and the Father are one."

These are incredible scriptures when you put them together. Jesus tells them in john “I know them, and they follow me” then in Jer 1:5 God says "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Just think about the meaning of those two statements put together. God not only knows us but knew us from before we were even born. He set us on a plan, a ministry, a purpose. It is up to us to follow that plan. But I will say this, the way to keep following the plan is to keep following the Shepard. The temptation is to follow other directions, other gods Jer 2:5 This is what the LORD says: "What fault did your fathers find in me, that they strayed so far from me? They followed worthless idols and became worthless themselves. That is our fate if we follow worthless gods we become worthless ourselves. God declares how foolish it is to follow after other gods. Jer 2:11Has a nation ever changed its gods? (Yet they are not gods at all.) But my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols. As sheep of the Shepard we share in the glory of the Shepard. As the children of God we share in the glory of that God. Just as others that follow after their god share in the glory of their god. The problem is there is no god so there is no glory. It is only the trap of Satan who has tricked them into worshipping him. I declare today as Jacob did so many years ago “as for me and my house we serve the Lord” I declare today I am just a sheep of the hand of the living God and only share in His glory, the glory He deserves.

May God richly bless you and your family as you share in the glory of the Sheppard you follow. the Sheppard that set you on a path from before you were even born. the Sheppard that chose you to be His joy. This Sunday may we proclaim together To God be the glory!

Pastor Jack

Next reading Jer. 3,4; John 11;

Zeph. 1-3; John 9

2010-08-07T00:18:00.000-07:00

Zeph. 3:17 “The LORD your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.”

This is one of my favorite scriptures. It is after two chapters in which the wicked are told of an impending judgment but then God addresses the remnant. He says they are His people and they will be blessed and they are to rejoice because he has taken away their judgment. And then the prophet bursts into the celebration of joy. Can you see it. The Lord rejoicing over you, so filled with Joy that he is singing over you. I can remember that kind of joy. The picture comes to my mind of holding in my arms one of my babies and being so filled with joy that I broke out singing. This has been a source of pain for my children in that although my singing sounds great to me it is painful for others to hear. Have you ever been so filled with joy that you begun singing or dancing well that is the picture here. And the reason is us. His rejoicing is over you. Well I have flaws and he knows my failures but God burst out with singing anyway. His grace has taken away your sin and he only sees your perfection. You are beautiful to Him. You did deserve that kind of Love but God is so filled with love for you that He can’t help himself. So just rest in His arms and listen. Can you hear His song. By the way he has perfect pitch.

Pastor Rick

2 kings 23: 2 Chr.35; John 7;

2010-08-05T00:30:00.000-07:00

John 7:37-39

37 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

What a amazing statement Jesus proclaim that anyone who comes to Him who is thirsty for the power of God will be given the Holy Spirit and He will be like “streams of living water” and that “living water will flow from within him”. The promise that Jesus will give to us the Holy Spirit living right inside of us, within us. That is the desire of God to dwell right inside us. As Jesus is “one” with the father, God the father desires to be “one” with us. What a statement the God of the universe wants to dwell inside of Jack. Most of the time Jack has a hard time living with Jack and yet God wants to dwell with me. This is one of those things I accept by faith because, I have a hard time believing God loves me. Because I know me! I (we) are so lucky God does not think or act like us. His desire is to give and give it abundantly. What a God we serve. Just think there are people who have not yet asked God to give them living water. They don’t even want that water. They would rather view God from afar. Not me I want all I can get and even more. I want all of God and His Holy Spirit. So join with me today as we thank God for His blessings. The Gift of God was not only His son but also, His Holy Spirit to dwell with us forever…

May God bless you and keep you in the power of His Holy Spirit living right inside us, as He fulfills His purpose in and through us...

Pastor Jack

Next Reading Hab. 1-3; john 8;

II Kings 22; II Chron 34: John 6

2010-08-04T01:00:00.001-07:00

Doing What‘s Right - II Chronicles 34

“When Josiah was 16 years old, he began to seek the God of his father David.” II Chronicles 34:3
Josiah was only eight years old when he became king over Jerusalem. His father Amon had done evil in the sight of the Lord and had been assassinated after only reigning two years. Even with this terrible legacy, king Josiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. This powerful story gives us great insight to some very important principles that we can apply in our daily living:

• “He sought after the Lord” – Valuing and keeping our relationship with God as the highest priority in our busy lives.
• “He purged idols from the land” – Recognize and remove those things that have taken a position of significance above the Lord.
• “He humbled himself and cried out to the Lord” – Admit and cry out that we are desperately in need of the Lord’s help.
• “God heard him” – Hold on to the truth that our Lord hears the cries of His children and the restoration has begun.

“… and all who were present in Israel serve the Lord their God. As long as he lived, they did not fail to follow the Lord, the God of their fathers.” II Chronicles 34:35

God Bless,
Pastor Kim

Next Bible Reading: II Kings 23; II Chr. 35; John 7

Nahum 1-3; John 5

2010-08-03T00:05:00.000-07:00

"God is jealous, and the Lord avenges; the Lord avenges and is furious. The Lord will take vengeance on His adversaries, and He reserves wrath for His enemies. The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and will not acquit the wicked." (Nahum 1:2-3a)

I've heard some people say that they don't like the God of the Old Testament and find it difficult to believe in Him because of statements such as these. The actions which followed this prophecy is hard for some to understand, but just because some may not understand it doesn't change the truth... "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him." (Nahum 1:7) There is only one God, the same God in both the O.T. & N.T., with the same character, values, etc. at all times.

God is both love and righteousness at the same time. Since the wages of sin is always death, God who is just must punish sin. Therefore, out of His righteousness He demanded a payment for our sin and out of His Love He sent His son to die in our place.

"Most assuredly, I say unto you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgement, but has passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)

It is not our works that set us free from the payment of our sin but His work on the cross applied to us when we admit the fact that we are sinners (confession with repentance), believe in Christ wholeheartedly and commit our lives to follow Him forever. If you do what He has commanded, fear not, you will not hear... "Behold, I am against you, says the Lord of hosts..." (Nahum 2:13) but rather, "You are my friends..." (John 15:14) If not...

The choice is yours!

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: 2 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 34; John 6

Spiritual Parenting

2010-08-02T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4

In this current culture, I believe the biggest challenge is spiritual parenting. You cannot drive more than 10-15 minutes before you are overran by inappropriate posters, bumper stickers and even worse, profane people. Protecting our children and grandchildren from the onslaught of evil in this day and age is nothing short of a miraculous and powerful work of God’s Spirit. Throughout several chapters in this portion of scripture, we read of the rule of kings—some were good and some were evil. Many of them were young when they began ruling. In this portion, one of the longest ruling kings was Manasseh. He was very evil—he even had Isaiah sawed in two—a real nice guy. However, somewhere in the midst of his reign, after a period of suffering, he turns to the Lord. “And when he was in affliction, he besought the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, and he prayed unto him: and he was entreated of him, and heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that Jehovah was God.” (2 Chronicles 33:11-13) As you read through the book of 2 Chronicles, you see the good, bad and the ugly list of kings. Why did some of these kings do good and some evil? Anyone that has parented children in to adults can tell you this one thing—your kids will ultimately make their own decisions. Yes, it is true, sooner or later, they will decide what they will eat, what they will wear, who they will marry, where they will go to school or maybe that they do not even want to go to school. They will even decide on their own, if they want to follow Christ. It will be out of your hands. Pastor Rick realized from being a youth pastor early own in the ministry that you only have so long that you can tell your children what to do, then you must pray that the influence you have over them will be enough to guide them to the best decisions. I would marvel over Rick’s gentle but firm parenting skills—his ability to diffuse rebellion with wisdom. He would persuade (sometimes they even thought it was their great idea) to make better decisions. Above all, I believe that because we thirst for God, our children ultimately have that same thirst. “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) They saw us praying, reading our Bibles, and dealing with pain and difficulties while not forsaking our faith. And yes, they saw us fail, but many times, when we were especially wise, they heard us repent and open up about the kinks in our amours. We laughed a lot together, made going to church more than once a week a family value, not to be debated, and they learned that prayer was a daily part of family life. We made room for them to openly discuss questions of faith and if we did not have answers, we helped them seek out the answers. We gave them room to make decisions and when they failed, we encouraged them to rethink the steps by which they arrived at the bad decision and helped them establish better patterns for next time. Above all, they knew that home was a safe place and that there would always be enough love to go around for every one, even the lost lamb. What was most important in our home was not how good we looked on the outside, but who we were on the inside because eventually that person will appear. As we saw the Fruit of the Spirit in our lives, we would celebrate and know that we were on the right path. We thanked God for His mercy and grace in parenting. In the end, each one of these kings had a decision to make, they all had seen both good and bad in previous family members who were also kings and ultimately their decision was theirs to make. May God rise up spiritual parents who have the courage and wisdom to rise up courageous and wise followers of Christ.

Blessings in Christ, Carol

Next Reading: Nahum 1-3; John 5

Is. 65, 66; Ps 62; John 3;

2010-08-01T00:30:00.000-07:00

John 3:19-21

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

This is a truth that you can judge all men by, but more than anyone else it is the measure we should judge ourselves by. If I walk in the light I do not care who sees what I do. If I walk in the light then my life is a testimony of the living God, who loves me no matter where I walk. It is a testimony to the God who wants me to walk in the light because He is in the light. He wants me to walk with Him. It has always been my observation about light that the further I get away from the light the bigger the shadows in front of me get. If I get far enough away they can grow so large I can hide in them. They become so large that they are much bigger than I am. They even appear to be bigger and more important than the light. David says in Ps 62:5-8 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. I want the kind of rest David is talking about. I know where it is “it is in the light”.

May God richly bless you and keep you and your family locked under the center of the light where there are no shadows that we may hide in. That all may see “plainly that what he (we) has done has been done through God."

Pastor Jack

Next reading 1 Ki. 21; 2 Chr. 33; John 4

Is. 63,64; Ps. 107; John 2

2010-07-31T00:18:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 64:1-2

1 Oh, that You would rend the heavens! That You would come down! That the mountains might shake at Your presence— 2 As fire burns brushwood, As fire causes water to boil— To make Your name known to Your adversaries, That the nations may tremble at Your presence!

Have you ever felt like Isaiah? You know there’s some arrogant non-believer who proudly mocks God and you think “God if you would only do something that shakes his false confidence. That is what is going on with Isaiah. He is praying, Oh God “that You would come down! Make your name known to your Adversaries, That the nations may tremble at Your presence!” In other words scare the snot out of them God. I am tired of your name being dishonored. Show them how powerful you are and scare them into repentance. I have wanted God to do that more than once. But God doesn’t respond to Isaiah’s prayer and he doesn’t respond to our prayer that way. Instead he sends His love in the form of His son and today he send His love in the form of follower of Christ. God can always use his power, but that only goes against His ultimate object and that is to give people the free will to choose Him. Besides if God just got converts because they were scared of him, they wouldn’t be true converts, the scripture says “it is the love of God that leads to repentance”. And the most powerful thing in the world is God’s love. The God of Islam is a God of fear but the Almighty God is a God of love. Will the arrogant sinner ever face the reality of God? Yes, they will face God after they have continued to reject his love they will eventually face His wrath. In the mean time we persuade people to turn from God’s wrath unto God’s Love.

Pastor Rick

Isaiah 60-62; John 1

2010-07-30T00:05:00.000-07:00

"The spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor, He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor..." Isaiah 61:1-2

Jesus speaks these words about himself in Luke 4 after over four hundred years of biblical silence. The teachers and rabbis felt like God had abandoned them and didn't quite understand the prophecy from Isaiah. Jesus comes along and filled with the Spirit and announces He is the messiah that they had been waiting for. In this statement we see the heart of God. He's attentive to the poor, those who are held as slaves. It's hard to beleive that we still in this day have many who are sold into slavery whether it be human traffiking, sex trade industry, or child soldiers, God has come to set them free. He has come to set people free from all darkness whether it be an abusive relationship or addicttion to any substance. By God's grace I have seen broken lives put back together and families restored. After Jesus read this verse he put down the scroll and said "today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." He said all the scripture and prophecy is about me. I am the fulfillment and I am the Christ, I am your treasure, I am your Lord, I am your Savior, I am the one who has come to give you life. I have come to set you free from all sin and pain. It's all about me, It's all about Jesus. Today in your hearing this verse is true for you. He came for you. Be liberated from all bondage brokenness, be set free and proclaim the Lord's favor....

Pastor Joe

Isaiah 57-59; Psalm 103; 2 Peter 3

2010-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

The hero of all heroes….

I never read comics as a kid but if I did I’m sure none of the super heroes in them could have compared to Jesus. For example look at the imagery we see here.

He put on righteousness as his breastplate,
and the helmet of salvation on his head;
he put on the garments of vengeance
and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak.

According to what they have done,
so will he repay
wrath to his enemies
and retribution to his foes;
he will repay the islands their due.

From the west, men will fear the name of the LORD,
and from the rising of the sun, they will revere his glory…” (Isaiah 59:17-19)

It is like the best action hero movie Hollywood could ever plan to make. Jesus has already done so much for us and He will continue to stand in the gap for us right up until the day He comes back. I love what the end of Isaiah says, “…this is my covenant with them," says the LORD. "My Spirit, who is on you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children, or from the mouths of their descendants from this time on and forever," says the LORD. (Isaiah 59:21) While Jesus has come to us to be our Redeemer, He has also given us a great gift for daily living. The Spirit of God has come to be our Sanctifier: thus the Comforter shall abide with the church for ever, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever” (John 14:16.) Remember the cause of the Redeemer shall gain complete victory on earth, and the believer will be more than conqueror when the Lord receives him to His glory in heaven.

Be Blessed,
Pastor Jason

NEXT READING: Isaiah 60-62; John 1

Isaiah 53-56; 2 Peter 2

2010-07-28T01:00:00.000-07:00

“Sing O’Barren” Isaiah 54:1
In this passage Israel’s captivity is compared to a barren woman, which was an object of scorn in that culture. However the command to sing in the face of such a state, was to put God in His rightful place in order to see His miraculous provision. Today, let us examine our perspective and be willing proclaim His greatness. Truly the Lord has a master plan for each one of us even in the middle of difficult times. Often during tough times, there can be a tendency to be more conservative with our resources. Yet, the following scripture encourages us to get out of our comfort zone and make room.

“Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare; Lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes.” Isaiah 54:2
This amplifies this truth, as an act of faith, even yet barren, to make room for God’s expansion. Let us determine to be ready for God’s expansion in our circle of influence. Let’s allow our faith grow and place our total trust on Him who is faithful in keeping His promises.
Be encouraged by this quote from Corrie Ten Boom, a Dutch Christian Holocaust survivor who helped many Jews escape the Nazis during WW II.
"Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible."

God Bless,
Pastor Kim

Is. 57-59; Ps. 103; 2 Pet. 3

Isaiah 50-52; Psalm 92; 2 Peter 1

2010-07-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

"For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you know and are established in the present truth. Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, knowing that shortly I must put off my tent, just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these after my decease." 2 Peter 1:12-15

Within the writings of Peter I find sobering words, which I have made bold in the quotation above. The Lord Jesus Christ had showed him and he was fully aware of the limited time he had left on this planet. Because of this knowledge, Peter lived a certain way and made sure to emphasize certain words. How would we live if our time left in our 'tent' was short? Are we being negligent?

Peter dedicated his time to 'ensure' that there was a living reminder after his departure. He made sure that what was entrusted to him was passed on to the next generation. He made sure that the Truth was foremost and that there would be a faithful group of people to carry on that Truth. Jesus said: "I am the way the truth and the life..." Are we doing everything possible to make sure the next generation lives for the Truth? Do you have people 5 years younger, 10 years younger, 15 years younger, 20 years younger, etc., without a gap, following you as you follow Christ? or is there a great disparity between you and those you impact?

I suggest we prayerfully seek those in whom we can entrust the faith, so that every generation is actively involved and maturing in the faith. Doing so will guarantee us a living reminder of what Jesus has said and done until His return.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Isaiah 53-56; 2 Peter 2

Isaiah 46-49; I Peter 5

2010-07-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

“Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’.” I Peter 5:5

Although this portion gives instruction to elders and to the young, it’s overall message is to ‘all of you’. All of us are called to humility; in fact, humility is a quality that pleases God’s heart in such a way that it is through humility God’s grace is able to flow freely in our lives and ministry. In Micah 6:8 it says, “He has shown you oh man what is good and what the Lord requires of you; but to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly before your God.” Humility is a beautiful thing and it is often this very quality that brings people to Christ when they see Christians acting in this manner. My brother pastored a church in Barstow, probably one of the hottest and most desolate places to live. Robert decided to find out who the people were that were shut ins that were or had once been a part of the congregation. He found that there was a woman in a convalescent home, who had faithfully attended the church for many years. Robert visited her and ministered to her and she so wanted to go back to church. He arranged to pick her up and bring her the next Sunday. When he arrived that morning to pick her up the home hadn’t properly dressed her but he was determined because she longed so much to be in church again. He carefully carried her to his car and drove her to the church. When he pulled up in front of the building he again picked her up and began carrying her in to the building. There was a woman from his church who had an unsaved husband and that morning she had talked her husband in to coming with her. As they were walking in to the building his wife said , “Oh look that’s Pastor Robert now, the one carrying the woman.” This man was so touched by this act of humble service that he gave his life to Christ that morning and became one of the most outstanding servants in that ministry. He personally told me his testimony and said that when he saw my brother carrying that woman it melted his heart. I am reminded of the story of the Good Samaritan--many people passed by the injured man but only one stopped . This act was one of justice, mercy and humility as Micah 6:8 says. Notice that Peter says to ‘clothe’ yourselves, all of you…this takes action, we must put on humility, this is a decision. So today, let’s not pass by any opportunities to be clothed in humility and let’s experience the grace God gives to the humble. Let’s be God’s hands, feet and heart of love to touch the world.

Walking in Him,
Carol

Tomorrow's Reading: Isaiah 50-52; Psalm 92; 2 Peter 1

Isa 43-45; 1 peter 4;

2010-07-25T00:30:00.000-07:00

Isa 44: 16-17

Half of the wood he burns in the fire; over it he prepares his meal; he roasts his meat and eats his fill. He also warms himself and says, "Ah! I am warm; I see the fire." From the rest he makes a god, his idol; he bows down to it and worships. He prays to it and says, "Save me; you are my god."

I thought this was an interesting scripture. It seams ridicules to us that a man would take simple wood, something God gave us to build houses or burn as fire to warm ourselves or cook food. Then a man would take this same wood and create a Idol that he would think has the power to save him. What a foolish thought until I take a moment to examine those things God has given me that I will worship instead of Him. Modern things we worship a car, a job, or maybe a relationship. What might be even more foolish the worship of drugs or alcohol or even a television. I wonder if that man that made that idol of wood might think how a person could ever worship drugs, alcohol, or a woman. Yet man will always find a way to make Romans 1 true “They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.” There is a constant battle in me to worship the creator rather than the created, with my time, my finances and my attention. Today thanks to the grace of God I am winning the battle and will join with you this morning in the worship of the one and only living God.

May God bless you and keep you in His love as we dedicate our lives to the worship of Him. So we will continue to recognize His love and His grace as we bow to worship Him.

Pastor Jack

Next reading Isa. 46-49; 1 Pet. 5;

Is. 19-21; Heb. 11

2010-07-24T01:47:00.000-07:00

“By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” Heb. 11:7

Noah saved his family and the perpetuation of humanity because he was moved or motivated by godly fear. It wasn’t the warning that moved Noah to action it was fear. Divine warnings are common. The scripture says that the reality of judgment is common revelation to all. God has warned us through creation and through revelation of His word, but most who have received the warnings don’t do anything about it. Noah warned people for 100 years and there were no converts. Most of us that know what we aught to do and how we aught to live don’t do it and it’s not because we don’t have enough knowledge. While witness a young man who was going down the path of self destruction, responded to the gospel with, “if God came and told me directly I would do it”. I don’t think he would, he has already received divine warning from a bunch of different sources but still he waits for more. Jesus told the Pharisees when they asked for another sign, he said know sign will be given to them except the sign of Noah (the resurrection). What made the difference in Noah’s life was “godly fear”. Noah had a big God and he respected the awesomeness of God and it kept him from treading water and saved his family. How big is your God? What moves you when you have been warned or challenged or encouraged?

Pastor Rick

2 Kings 20; Isaiah 38-39;Psalm 75; 1 Peter 2

2010-07-23T00:05:00.000-07:00

"Go and tell Hezekiah, "Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: "I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will add to your days fifteen years." Isaiah 38:5

Hezekiah has been told by the prophet Isaiah that he will die of his illness. Instead of accepting his fate he turns to prayer. I am so grateful for Hezekiah's response to his illness and even more grateful for the Lord who hears his cry. On a daily basis I hear reports that are similar if not much like the one Hezekiah recieved from the prophet. Today I was informed of a child who was having wisdom teeth pulled and went into a comma and may have brain damage. Weekly I'm told of families that are in danger of losing there homes or jobs. It is never inappropriate to turn to the Lord in any circumstance. God alone can provide healing, and any other type of provision. He does so by miracle means, by natural means, and by human means. In two of our readings today we read that Hezekiah's deliverance from death, came from God. Let your response today be like Hezekiah, cry out to the Lord, He is your deliverer and healer.

Praying and believing with you,
Pastor Joe

Isaiah 36,37; Psalm. 76; 1 Peter 1

2010-07-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

So often we wander around this world being shaped by our surroundings. If we look carefully at what sort of things develop in us based on the surroundings we grow up in, one of the things so many of us see is “FEAR”, more specifically the fear of man. It is easy to be shaped by our hurts and even to see a world with so much injustice and to speculate how God can let it happen or to question if it will ever stop. Sometimes when we see things happen for an extended period of time we might ask, “Will God make things just and right? Will He step in?” These thoughts are some of the seeds that allow fear to grow in us. Thankfully, He is always faithful…..

“At Your rebuke, O God of Jacob,
Both the chariot and horse were cast into a dead sleep.
You, Yourself, are to be feared;
And who may stand in Your presence
When once You are angry?”
(Psalm 76:6-7)

When we read through Psalms 76 we see a God who fears nothing and who looks out for us. Sometimes it is just a matter of time before God steps in. Just as a father might stand by for just a moment to see how his child is going to react in the face of opposition. Our Father in Heaven is slow to anger but is still watching with a sharp eye. He will always step in and when he does everyone will know it. When we look at the “BIG PICTURE” it brings an understanding that we must trust God and recognize He has everything under control and He will deal with the good, bad, and everything in-between in His time.

I encourage us all to look to Him who is just and true while we thank Him for the grace we have been given in our lives.

Be Blessed,
Pastor Jason

NEXT READING: 2 King 20; Isaiah 38,39; Psalm 75; 1 Peter 2

2 Kings 18,19; 2 Chr 32; James 5

2010-07-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

It Works! James 5
In this book, James recognizes the lordship of Jesus, referring to himself as a ‘bondservant” of God and urges all believers to exercise their faith in both personal and social arenas. It is so wonderful to know that having accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, we are in “right standing” with God. We know this is only because of what He has done on the cross and not by our own works. (Eph 2:8). It is with this understanding that we can grab hold and act on this powerful statement concerning prayer! “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16b

Do you ever feel you have absolutely nothing to give? According to James, as believers we have the great opportunity to plant a seed of ‘faith believing,’ ‘love motivated,’ prayer in another person’s life! I was raised seeing the powerful results of effective prayer and I have grown to appreciate the influence of a praying parent. What does prayer do? The prayer of faith works! Working for what is right. It is this fervent prayer of a righteous man that characterizes energy to see things happen.
George Muller, who founded five orphan homes in the 1800’s and received a million and a half in money by prayer and faith alone states; “God is still the living God, and now, as well as thousands of years ago, He listens to the prayers of His children, and helps those who trust in Him.” About prayer Mr. Muller had very definite views. ‘In order to be successful, prayer, he said, must originate with the Holy Spirit, and not be the product or impulse of a human mind.’ One incident was a gift of jewelry sent to be sold for the orphans included a costly diamond ring. Before it was sent to the sale rooms Mr. Muller used it to write upon the window of his room “Jehovah Jireh” to encourage him in the coming dark days he anticipated without fear.”

God has made a way for those who believe to boldly go before the throne room of grace. We have a great opportunity to pray and then trust His provision. Let us not take this privilege of prayer too lightly but let us believe for and trust in His good work to be done.
Let us pray!

God Bless,
Pastor Kim

Next Reading: Is 22-24; Heb 12

2 Chronicles 29-31; James 4

2010-07-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

Let's be friends!

"Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God"(4:4)

Imagine people singing 'I am a friend of God' in church on sunday but with their actions, throughout the week, actually demonstrating that they want to be a friend of the world. James uses the word 'adulterers' as a metaphor to describe those kind of people. Those people are breaking their vows to God by trying to "fit in" with a world that has a lifestyle that is diametrically opposed to God. If we follow our flesh, which wars against the Spirit, and desire to become friends of the world we will fail and end up alienating ourselves from God. But if we 'submit to God' we will have the power to 'resist the devil', and 'he will flee from us'.(4:7) We will then have the victory over our flesh and the devil! So let's focus our energies on "drawing near to God,". He already made a way for us to approach Him. If we do this, "he will draw near to us."(4:8)

God says: Lets be friends! What do you say?

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: 2 Kings 18-19; 2 Chronicles 32; James 5

"Be still, and know that I am God"

2010-07-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 17, 2 Chronicles 28, Psalm 46, James 3

“Be still, and know that I [am] God…” Psalm 46:10

Oh that sweet, sweet place of ‘knowing’ that God is God. The Hebrew word for know is ‘yada’ meaning to know, to know by experience, to get to know to be skilled at knowing. It is a very intense word of relationship and communion. You can know ‘about’ someone but to ‘know’ a person, to ‘yada’ a person is a deep relationship—ongoing and vibrant. The Psalmist is confident in God, he writes of God’s saving power and the beauty of His presence in the holy place where the Most High Dwells. In verses 4-5 it says, “[There is] a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy [place] of the tabernacle of the Most High. God [is] in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.” In both Ezekiel and in Revelation, we are told about the river in the city of God. In Revelation, we are told that on either side of the river there are trees that bear twelve manners of fruit. Tell me that heaven is not going to be an incredible place? The leaves of the trees are for the healings of the nations. This is what those in the Old Testament were looking for. It says that these died in faith not having received the promises, but having seen it a far off they claimed it and they said, “I am just a stranger and a pilgrim here, I am looking for a city which hath foundation, whose maker and builder is God.” I enjoy traveling, but you know when it is time to go home, it is such a great feeling. You walk in your house and go, ‘Ahhh…”. However, really, we should not hold on too tightly to what we have here on earth, because this is not our home—our home is a city where our maker and builder is God! There is a stream in that city, and the steams make glad the city of God, the holy place of ‘his dwelling’ the dwelling of the Most High. In closing this morning, one phrase really caught my eye, “God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.” (v. 5) Maybe you are facing rough circumstances or frustrations today or in this season of your life. Be encouraged because God is your help and even when it seems the darkest…just at the break of dawn your deliverance will come.

Be blessed today,
Carol

Tomorrow’s Reading: 2 Chronicles 29-31, James 4

Isa 32-35; Jas 2;

2010-07-18T00:30:00.000-07:00

James 2:26
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

It is my spirit that makes me Jack, not my mind. If my spirit was dead my body would still function I would still eat, drink, act as a natural person but I would not have a conscience. I would not realize the difference between right and wrong. I would not care or want to be cared about. There would be no real purpose to living I would not be Jack I would just exist. The same is true about faith. I can exist without faith. I can function and even do Christian things. I could go to church; I could give to the poor. I could even speak words of Christian love. James says if the purpose for doing those things is not because I believe in the living God and that the reason for my behavior (Deeds) is not my faith in Jesus then my deeds are worthless and my faith is dead. James says faith and deeds go together hand in hand in other words a person will really do what they really believe. James says “I will show you my faith by what I do.” The truth is I can tell my real belief (not just what I say) by what I do. So it is a good time today to evaluate my real beliefs by my real actions.

May God bless you and keep you in our growing faith as we believe Him for the miracles in our life that keeps us in real touch with His kingdom every day.

Pastor Jack
Next reading 2 Kings 17; 2 Chr. 28; Ps. 46 Jas 3;

Isaiah 25-28; Heb. 13

2010-07-17T00:24:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You,

Peace is such a wonderful gift. Most people would trade everything they have to get peace. I remember a man who had received Christ on a Sunday and on Monday he hunted be down to tell me that he had experienced the first peaceful night sleep in his memory. But God doesn’t just promise peace, He promises perfect peace. That’s a kind of peace that can only be understood by experience and cannot be described. Paul calls it a peace that passes understanding. But wait a minute, who is offered this peace? How do we get this peace. Well it is those whose mind remain on God. Have you ever been asked, hey where’s your head at? That’s not a bad question to ask yourself once in awhile. Our mind tends to wonder. What do you think about when your not thinking about anything. Well if you can retrain your mind to think about God, to stay in prayerful connection with God then perfect peace will be yours. Gird up your mind and rest in God.

Shalom,

Pastor Rick

Is 25-28; Hebrews 13

2010-07-16T06:51:00.000-07:00

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever" Hebrews 13:8

If you've been to any Foursquare church you will see this verse declared somewhere. I have seen it in many countries and languages and it's a constant reminder of who God is and what He is doing. At any moment of time you may ask the question what is God doing? The answer is always the same he is accomplishing His plan. Sometimes we forget that the bible is a narrative. A story of redemption. It's a story of how God sent his son Jesus into the world to save people to himself. People who are rebellious and sinful towards Him. This story is much bigger than just our daily struggle with sin. Our biggest problem is we seek our identity outside the story of redemption. From the call to Abraham, victories in the promise land, the lives of David, Solomon, Isaiah, John the Baptist, and in your life, God has been at work accomplishing His plan. "For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised."( 2 Cor 5:14-15) Only one thing is strong enough to overpower a stormy life. It's what God has promised to do through Jesus Christ. This life is here is a slight, momentary affliction preparing for us, an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison (2 Cor 4:17)

Stand firm today that God is at work calling you and others to himself. His plan and love for you never changes, He is the same yesterday today and forever. Pray for the young adults as we head up to Lake Mead today for a retreat.

In Him,
Pastor Joe

Is. 22-24; Heb. 12;

2010-07-15T00:31:00.000-07:00

Heb 12:2

2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

When I read this I always am reminded of the fact that the thing that took Jesus to the cross was the love of me. I can barely get my children to bring me a drink of water for the love of me. But the King of the universe, “the author and perfecter of our faith” was willing to go to the cross for me, and He calls it “the joy set before him” Me, you and I are the joy set before Him. Just think of that. We can’t even get our dog to listen and yet we are the joy set before the king of the universe. That means two things to me, first it means I do not fully realize the power and position God puts me in, if I did life would be a whole lot simpler and holy. My daily walk would look a lot more like Jesus. Second it says I do not fully except how much I mean to Him and just how much He loves me. Sometimes I get glimpses of that love by how much my grandchildren bring me joy by just being with them. Other times I fall so short of understanding that kind of love. So today I chose to just except it and claim as the writer of Hebrews does in the last verse of this chapter Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,

May God bless you and keep you in His love, as His joy, as we declare together “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe”,

Pastor Jack

Next reading Is.25-28; Heb13;

Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11

2010-07-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 11
Temporary Housing
This portion of scripture is one of the most impressive declarations of those who have walked ‘by faith’ under circumstances that are beyond our compression. These were everyday people who have shown us again the truth about God’s love and provision. These ‘heroes of faith’ only received a partial fulfillment of what God had promised and these elders maintained their faith that God would do what He said. Because of their close relationship with God, they would not feel at home in earthly surroundings. They looked for something better.
“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. They admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth.” Hebrews 11:13
You may have heard the statement that some Christians are “so heavenly minded, they are no earthly good.” Although meant to be a rebuke or accusation against the believer, I am not so sure if it is a huge compliment. Oh, to be even more heavenly minded and prayerfully determined!
Consider the words of this hymn with me; “This world is not my home I'm just passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue. The angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore.”
What a gentle reminder that we are foreigners in this world and not to hold on so tightly those things that are so very temporary. Let us pour our energy into areas that have eternal purposes and grab hold of the legacy shared by others to “walk by faith and not by sight.” Let us believe and pray for those wayward children to return to the Lord and that deliverance will happen to those who have been in bondage! Let us hold fast to the truth, that salvation is for all who call on His name.
God is not done and we are His people who walk by faith!

“And without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6

Be Blessed,
Pastor Kim

Next Reading: Isaiah 22-24; Hebrews 12

Isaiah 15-18; Hebrews 10

2010-07-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

"For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, my soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul." Hebrews 10:37-39

Today we are comforted by the promise that someone is coming for us. Not just anyone, but the Lord of Lords is coming for us. We haven't been abandoned to our own luck or fate as some might believe. We are in process under the watchful eye of our Creator and Savior who loves us and will arrive at the perfect time, not one second to soon nor one second too late. The amount of time that still needs to pass before His return is not 'lateness', as others might perceive, but rather the completion of an excellent timeframe designed by the Master designer who will carry out His perfect plan, regardless of who would like to stop Him.

What should we do in the meantime, especially those of us who have been declared just, by the rightesousness imparted to us by God? LIVE by FAITH! That is the answer we see in todays reading. We must LIVE, not just survive, but LIVE. Take advantage of every moment you have left, making sure your priorities are correct and Live for the glory of God. Don't waste time, invest your time in that which is valuable. If you lack wisdom in this, ask your Lord and Savior and He will direct your paths.

The life we live must be lived in FAITH. In other words we should live our life knowing that GOD is who He says He is and is more than capable of doing what He said He will do. We don't walk blindly, no not at all. We walk with complete assurance, confidence, and trust, not in oursleves but in the Lord and what He has promised. He has never let us down nor will He ever betray His word. Learn His word, Love His word, and Live His word!

Once you've encountered the true and living God in such a personal way as the one required for a life of Faith, why would you ever turn back? I believe you won't, because we are not of those who draw back, NO not us, we will never draw back. We are of THOSE, yes THOSE who should be feared by the enemy of our souls, feared by the ungodly who have rejected salvation and choose to fight against righteousness, because WE are part of the armies of God, WE belong to the Lord and are guaranteed VICTORY in every sense of the Word.

Hear todays battle cry... Learn His Word, Love His Word, Live His Word!

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11

Praise the Lord

2010-07-12T00:04:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 11-14; Hebrews 9
“And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD…” Isaiah 12:4I

There is coming a day when we will truly see Jesus coming again. This portion of scripture, Isaiah is prophesying of the time when the children of Israel will as well see this day and they will understand and know Jesus as the Messiah. Every eye will recognize the Lord as He reigns finally over the earth. His Kingdom will come and His will is going to be done on earth as it is in heaven. When Jesus returns and sets Himself as the King over the earth it will be a glorious, glorious day…and we will all proclaim “Praise the Lord”. We will enter in to this glorious new age, when we see the world as God wants it to be. All things will be in order and we will dwell together in love and peace with complete unity. The prophet wrote, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; He is also become my salvation.” (Isa. 12:2) Do you remember the day you received Jesus as your Savior? Do you remember the day that you put your trust in Him and He became your strength and your song? Take some time to reflect on the day that you were born again…thank God for the gift of His Son Jesus, our salvation. And if you have never asked Jesus to be your Savior, today you can receive the gift of salvation, just simply pray, "Jesus, forgive me of my sins and make me one of your children. I invite you in to my life and ask you to be my Savior and Lord." Amen “Thank you Lord for Your Kingdom rule and reign in our lives here on earth and thank you Lord, for the day that You will come and we will see You in all of Your glory and we will all say…”Praise the Lord!” Amen

Blessings in Christ Jesus, Carol
Next Reading: Isaiah 15-18; Hebrews 10

Isa 8-10; Heb 8;

2010-07-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

I always found it interesting that God promised this in the middle of His anger at a people that had turned against Him so many times even they could not remember how many times it was. With this scripture I am reminded it is because He is God. Because, He is love. Because He is faithful that H
e fulfills His promises no matter what. I Am on vacation and I just had a conversation with my granddaughter (she is 4) on the phone. She said “Papa why are you not at church”. I said “I am on vacation so I am not going to church tonight”. She said “Why, God is not on vacation”. Even when I am on vacation I am Glad God is never on vacation from me or you. Our God is always faithful and ready to take care of me and you. Well the truth is tonight my granddaughter is at church and I am on vacation and God is still watching over both of us and you too. So tonight I just praise God for His faithfulness. I am thankful He is watching over her and you (me to) while I am on vacation.

May God bless you and Keep you in the knowledge of His son the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. That He was faithful enough to give us, even in the midst of His anger, because of His great love.

Pastor Jack

Next reading Isa. 11-14; Heb. 9;

Micah 1-2; Hebrews 6

2010-07-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

"For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward his name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister." Hebrews 6:10

Chapter 6 of Hebrews is really a an encouragement for the new believers to press on and to continue to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises God has for them. (Heb 6:12) What strikes me in this passage is not only are these early believers encouraged to not to become sluggish but, they had already had a reputation of being a people who have shown love by ministering to the saints and known for being a people who honor the Lord. Let that be said of us, and people of The Cornerstone. Today is a great day to evaluate my reputation. When people think of us to do they see a people who minister to the Lord by ministering to others? What are you known for? Are you the person with the quick temper or is critical of everyone else; or are you the one who seems to show Christ love. Scriptures are clear that they will know we are Christians by our love. I have a Cornerstone Church sticker on my car and it constantly reminds me that as I drive around people are watching. I am thoughtful of what people may think about me being a Christian as I cut them off. Now, that is a simple illustration but, in all honesty the church has suffered because of the reputation and actions of people who call themselves Christian. I know of other religious leaders who have said, if Christians acted like a Christian according to the scriptures everyone would be a Christian or at least want to be one. There some truth to that. So today realize your actions and reputation is critical in the advancing of the Kingdom of God.

Let's love on people today,

Pastor Joe

Hos. 13-14; Ps 100,102; Heb. 5

2010-07-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Jesus – Rabbi – Priest – “Teacher”,

We see here in Hebrews 5 that it was His destiny and calling, given directly from the Father. “So also Christ did not glorify Himself to become High Priest, but it was He who said to Him:

“ You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.”

As He also says in another place:

“ You are a priest forever
According to the order of Melchizedek”;

who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly fear, 8 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. 9 And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, 10 called by God as High Priest “according to the order of Melchizedek,” (Hebrews 5:5-10)

While we realize Jesus had to freely except what was coming to Him at great cost, perhaps we often forget that cost when we go about our lives with no drive or zeal for the Word. We can tend to go through our lives always expecting others to feed us and push us when in reality the Word clearly calls us to step it up and dig and learn for ourselves. “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” (Hebrews 5:12-14) Perhaps in a day and age where maturity is loosely assumed by society with landmarks like 18 years old or 21 years of age, we ought to instead gauge our maturity by a different scale. Let’s seek the Lord in prayer and ask Him to show us how to move from milk to STEAK (solid food) in our maturity with Him, and with that will come maturity and wisdom in life as well.

Blessings,
Pastor Jason

Next Reading: Mic. 1-4; Heb. 6

Hosea 10-12; Psalms 73; Hebrews 4

2010-07-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

Many Benefits
Hebrews 4
This epistle was written to wavering Jewish believers, encouraging them to stand fast in their faith. Hebrews chapter 4 carries on the declaration of the superiority of Christ Jesus’ ministry. The writer states that entering into the Sabbath rest means to accept God’s plan for us to cease from our own efforts for salvation. Man wants to add to the plan of salvation and thereby go against God’s provision, sometimes in willful disobedience. The author of Hebrews encourages us to not make the same mistake by rejecting God’s Sabbath rest in Jesus Christ.
“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience” Hebrews 4:10-11
Just as God rested from His work of creation, the one who trusts in Christ rests in what God has done for him. Here are just a few of the many benefits we have as believers in Christ and every one of these statements is true:
• I am loved. 1 John 3:3
• I am a child of God. John 1:12
• I am redeemed and forgiven. Colossians 1:14
• I am a new creation because I am in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17
• I do not have a spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
• I have direct access to God. Ephesians 2:18
• I am chosen to bear fruit. John 15:16
• I have been given exceedingly great and precious promises by God by which I share His nature. 2 Peter 1:4
• I can always know the presence of God because He never leaves me. Hebrews 13:5
• God works in me to help me do the things He wants me to do. Philippians 2:13
• I can ask God for wisdom and He will give me what I need. James 1:5

Let us enter into God’s rest, and in our daily life begin to learn a dependence upon the Holy Spirit’s help. We are confident as believers of two great provisions in our faith:
1. The Word of God, which reveals whether a person is living a spiritual life.
2. The ministry of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, is able to bring us into immediate fellowship with God.

Praise His Name, for He is ever interceding on our behalf.
Pastor Kim

Next Reading: Hos. 13-14; Ps 100,102; Heb 5

Hosea 6-9; Hebrews 3

2010-07-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 3:15 " Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion."

What an amazing blessing it is to know that we have the opportunity to HEAR the VOICE of GOD. Throughout my walk with Jesus I've had the amazing opportunity of hearing His voice on multiple occasions. How... you may ask,... have you heard the voice of God? Well, I'm glad you asked. ;) Once I heard Him speak to me with an audible voice. Most of the time I hear Him speak to me through His written word. Other times there is an inner voice and I even hear Him speak to me through others who are speaking on His behalf. There are so many ways that the Lord communicates with us. He is an excellent communicator, but sometimes we aren't very good listeners. We are not positioned to hear him.

I believe the greatest hindrance to listening to His voice is sin, especially the sin of unbelief. Some people don't believe there is a God, let alone one who is speaking today. Sin hardens their hearts, blinds their eyes and plugs their ears. Fortunately the Holy Spirit continues to convict of sin and soften hearts. If you turn from your sin and turn towards God you will hear Him, loud and clear. When you hear His voice, don't rebel, and don't let anything drown out what you've heard. Hold on tight to what you've heard and follow His instructions. He will lead you places you've only dreamed of.

Are you positioned to hear His voice? If not, I encourage you to position yourself, because He is speaking today!

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Hosea 10-12; Psalm 73; Hebrews 4

Today's Reading: Hosea 2-5; Hebrews 2

2010-07-05T00:04:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: Hosea 2-5; Hebrews 2
“Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.” Hebrews 2:1

Hebrews was written for the Jews who had received Jesus as their Messiah. They had not been solid enough in their faith so they were in danger of slipping back in to the traditions of Judaism. The book of Hebrews also appeals to the Greek mind since they saw everything on earth as the shadows cast by what was real. They were always searching for reality. The Jews, on the other hand, were searching for a way to approach God because historically there was a sense of being so unholy as not to be able to approach Him. The book of Hebrews presents Jesus as that approach to God. Chapter 2 deals with the ‘humanity of Christ’. Do not go back to your old life, to the law, that’s no way to live. Isn’t it amazing how often people will go back to their ‘comfort zone’ even after being delivered from bondages and sin? Even the Israelites complained about manna and reminisced about Egypt, the place of bondage. Galatians 5:1 says, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” And in 2 Peter 2:20 “For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning.” How much harder it is to come back out of bondage once we have tasted of the liberty we have in Christ? “Lest we drift away…” We must give heed to the things we read in the Word and the things taught from godly teachers so that we do not lose heart and seek the common life. “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” John 8:36

Next Reading: Hosea 6-9; Hebrews 3

2 kings 15’16; Hos 1; Heb 1;

2010-07-04T00:30:00.000-07:00

Heb 1:1-2

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe.

The writer of Hebrew declares that in times past God spoke to us through profits such as Moses or Isaiah, Elijah, Hosa prophets who spoke at various times in various ways. But, now God speaks to us through His Son Jesus. God will still at times speak to us directly or by the Holy Spirit. The nice part is we have the very words of His Son to check out those times when we believe we hear Him directly or through a prophet. We have the very words of the Son of the living God to read and inspect and learn from every day. So we can in fact know His will, His direction, His desire for us. We even know the end of the world and what will happen in the last days. It is always interesting to me that we will sometimes desire more the personal prophecy than the word of God that is clear and we know for sure where it came from. We have the very words of “his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe”. Yet we seek the words of others and do not have time to read Gods word. I am so glad we can do this reading through the word of God together and I even get to write this blog and share my thoughts. Just think we read THE WORD OF THE LIVING GOD TOGEATHER. What greater privilege could we have but maybe having fellowship with that living God every day. “O” I forgot we have that to.

May God richly bless you and keep you in His word and in His fellowship as you seek Him daily.

Pastor Jack

Next reading Hos 2-5; Heb 2;

1 Chron. 7:14

2010-07-03T00:17:00.000-07:00

2 Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

God’s remedy for a broken world is not complicated, has always worked in the past and can be counted on to work in the future. The prerequisite is a sick land. I think America qualifies for that. We are broken economically with nearly 10% unemployment, people losing their homes by the millions and life time savings disappearing. We are broken socially with families falling apart at record rates, kids raising themselves, marriages having less than 50% chance of success,. We are broken morally with teenage pregnancy through the roof the acceptance of homosexuality as an alternative to one man and one woman, and web pages that will connect you with another married person so you can commit adultery anonymously for a fee and the murder of unborn babies still hovering around a million and a half a year. Is our land sick? Without an infusion of the blood of Jesus Christ we are terminal.

The prescription starts with his people. The people of the world have no chance of healing the bleeding. Certainly the politicians are powerless to make the change because the change that’s needed is the change of the individual heart. So it starts with His people humbling themselves to pray. Why humility is so important is because pride keeps us from praying. As long as we think we can pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps we will never really get on our knees. Notice that forgiveness is so connected to the healing of our land. In a world that doesn’t even see sin as sin how is that going to happen? The answer is the Holy Spirit convicting the world of sin as a response to the repentance of God’s people repenting. It must start with us and when most of us take the remedy God will heal the land.

Pastor Rick

Isaiah 4-5; Psalm 115;Jude

2010-07-02T12:05:00.000-07:00

"But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases,"
Psalm 115:3

I have been meditating on this verse for over a week. I was super excited when I noticed it was part of our reading today. I shared this verse last week with the kids at kids camp. This verse tells us that God does what pleases Him. That means that when he created you just the way you are, it brought him pleasure. Have you ever asked God, why did you make me with this body? Or, why would God create planets with nothing on them? Well the answer is found in Psalm 115, it brings God pleasure. The black dot in the center of my nose that really irritates me brings the Lord pleasure. All you people who feel like you have to much hair or, not enough. Your hairiness or lack of hair brings God pleasure. Everything about you God loves. Your personality, gifts, talents, or even lack of gifts and talents brings pleasure to the Lord. You can't pick up a magazine or watch television about hearing how something about you needs to change. Today the Lord is reminding you that when he created you it was good and it brought him pleasure. Be confident in the body and mind the Lord created you with. He created you for a purpose and when you function as he designed you I am confident you will find pleasure as well. Don't beleive the lies that you need to do this or do that, and then you'll be confident in who are. Be confident that the Lord doesn't create mistakes and that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. You have been created by the creator of the universe and you bring pleasure to Him. Instead of complaining about how you look or what you lack, rejoice that you reflect the glory of the Lord. You're a creation of a master crafstman, a one of a kind, priceless and worth the sacrifice of God's only Son

Bringing him pleasure,

Pastor Joe

Isaiah 1-3; Titus 3

2010-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

As we read through Titus 3 we recognize there is definitely a calling on our lives that becomes very evident once we invite Jesus into our hearts and truly decide to live for Him. “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.” (Titus 3, 1-3)

At one time we too were foolish, defiant, deceived and confined by our flesh. But when the compassion and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of the righteous things we have done, but because of His grace and mercy. So, now as Christians we need to recognize our inheritance is no longer here. We need to learn to walk submissive and ready to do good, even when others are violent and unjust towards us. While it is a difficult lesson for us because violence and injustice stir up the heart, try to remember that the injustice others are doing is sin, and that we also were formerly its slaves. Remember, grace alone has saved us, and according to that grace we should also show that towards others.

I once heard a great quote that reminds me of the difference of our lives BC (before Christ) and now WC (With Christ)…
“If the Lord awakens the conscience, we shall feel even the smallest sin heavy upon our souls.”
Author – Unknown

Be blessed and have a great day my friends,
Pastor Jason

Next Reading: Isaiah 4-5; Psalms 115; Jude

Amos 7-9; Psalm 104; Titus 2

2010-06-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Doing What is Right! Titus 2

In this letter to Titus, Paul had given a relatively young preacher of the gospel, the difficult assignment of directing the work in Crete. Titus had traveled with Paul and had served as his representative to the church at Corinth during Paul’s third missionary journey. There was a sincere respect and love for Titus by the apostle. In chapter 2, Paul’s writing is straight forwarded and clear to state what needed to be taught and why. “Teach sound doctrine... In everything set an example by doing what is good.” This is a good instruction for all of us to apply.
We are either students or teachers in this walk of life and our life lessons are revealed by our daily choices and actions. We are not an island to ourselves and when we realize the direct impact we make on others by our Christ-like walk, the quicker we may embrace His purposes. When godliness is our goal, we then will pursue the values of a born-again lifestyle: Righteousness- right standing with God; Faith – reliance upon God: Love – benevolent affection toward God then revealed to others.

So then, let us conduct our lives “soberly” acting in a sensible, self-controlled lifestyle. Doing what is right and good! Be purposeful in your decisions and pray for the doors of opportunities to open. “…but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.” Titus 2:10

Have a blessed week and hold fast to the gospel. The good news!

"Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve." I Corinthians 15:1-5

Blessings,
Pastor Kim

Next Reading: Is. 1-3; Titus 3

Amos 4-6, Psalms 86, Titus 1

2010-06-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

V. 5 "For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you."

Leadership Principles:
Paul was a leader who multiplied himself into and through others; a leader reproducing leaders. Titus is one of those faithful young men Paul chose to invest his life into with the hope of developing a fruitful leader. As we begin to read Paul's letter to Titus we quickly find him telling Titus the twofold reason for leaving him in Crete. In a way he was providing Titus with a "clear job description". Paul was setting him up for success by clearly stating what was expected of him. It is so difficult to succeed if we don't know what we are supposed to do. Sounds like a pretty basic thing to have, huh?, but you would be surprised to know how many people are employed, going about their daily tasks yet lacking a proper "job description". It's sad to see how many people are running around like the proverbial "chickens with their head cut off"... a lot of activity but no productivity. That is not the way good leadership enlists and empowers others. Good leadership does as Paul did; make it clear... keep it simple. (i.e. The sun is powerful in and of itself but when we use a magnifying glass we are able to focus that power and cause a fire to break out)

One of Titus's pastoral duties was to "set in order the things that are lacking". Yes, you understood correctly, Paul wanted Titus to solve the problems in Crete. I love solving problems; don't you? Don't get me wrong; I don't enjoy problems, but I love solving them. When I was younger I would subscribe to a magazine that was filled with brain teasers, in other words, problems that needed solving. Maybe the Lord was getting me ready for ministry because in any leadership role you will inevitably have to confront problems. God is a God of order and uses his servants to help bring order to a very messed up world with very messed up people. He provides the wisdom and the power to be successful, trusting that we will act righteously and fulfill our duty.

The task facing Titus was much too overwhelming for one person to do it all, therefore the need for appointing elders in every city. Teamwork is a must. But the quality of the team members is very important. You just don't fill the team with whomever walks up. Paul wanted healthy people, in doctrine and morals, to take point, joining the leadership team. When healthy people multiply... I call that fruitfulness. When unhealthy people multiply... I call that an epidemic. Everyone tends to reproduce after their own kind... so ask yourself... am I reproducing fruit or am I causing an epidemic? If you discover you're the latter, don't fret, just repent and let God transform you and watch the fruit appear.

Lord help us to know our task, to solve our problems and to build a fruitful team for Your Glory and the expansion of Your Kingdom.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Amos 7-9; Psalm 104; Titus 2

Today's Reading: Amos 1-3, Psalm 80, 2 Timothy 4

2010-06-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

Paul's Farewell Letter to Timothy
"Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion."
2 Timothy 4:17

In spite of every thing that had happened to Paul since that monentous day when Jesus met him on the Road to Ammaeus and in spite of every one who had disappointed and hurt Paul, he had learned one thing, THE LORD STOOD WITH ME and STRENGTHENED ME. Recently we traveled through Rome and stood outside of the building where Paul spent his last days. Within a short distance I am sure he could hear the swelling crowds of onlookers at the colliseum rallying cries to send out yet another Christian. The hungered beasts panted anxiously to be released. The onlookers yearned for the violent and other tortuous events the Romans had devised to quench the thirst for evil entertainment at the martyr's expense. Paul was delivered out of the mouths of lions, from the angry mobs, from angry dictators and community leaders and from zealous Jews, as he himself had once been. In all of this he says, 'notwithstanding' or 'in spite of' all of these things, he writes that the Lord stood with him and strengthened Paul. "And the LORD shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, And save them, Because they trust in Him." Psalm 37:40 "And I will make you to this people a fortified bronze wall; And they will fight against you, But they shall not prevail against you; For I [am] with you to save you And deliver you," says the LORD." Jeremiah 15:20 "But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak." Matthew 19:20 "Fear not, for I [am] with you; Be not dismayed, for I [am] your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 Be encouraged because God is on our side and we is our strength and Deliverer. Whatever you are facing today, God is standing with you.

Blessings,

Carol

Next Reading: Amos 4-6, Psalms 86, Titus 1

2 kings 13,14; 2 Chr 25; 2 Tim 3:

2010-06-27T00:30:00.000-07:00

In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Tim 3:12-13

Sometimes I really struggle with the fact that this world is not my world. I struggle with the way evil seams to be rewarded and godly people and even God Himself are considered bad or even a joke. In Kings it seams as if ungodly kings get away with murder and godly men die for their faith. King David said it this way in Ps 73:1-3 “Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked”. The truth that Paul said is remember, this is not our home, this is not our world. David also comes to that decision when he says further in Ps 73:16-17 “When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. Paul says 2 Tim 3:1-5 “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God- having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.” The truth is this is not my world and I am glad. I need to dwell in and with my world, In Gods hands.

May God bless you and keep you in His love, in His kingdom, in His world, in His hands, until the day you go to dwell with Him forever.

Pastor Jack

Next reading Amos 1-3; Ps 80; 2 Tim 4

Pauls Farwell Letter to Timothy

2010-06-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: Joel 1-3; 2 Timothy 1

In the book of 2 Timothy, Paul writes his last letter to his beloved son in the faith. Paul is passionately pouring out his heart before this beloved disciple of his. You can imagine Timothy as he reads this letter, knowing and expecting that Paul’s execution is at hand. He would have been encouraged by the writings of John when he rehearses the last days with Jesus as he was telling the disciples that he was going to be leaving them soon. “These things I have spoken unto you that in me you might have peace, in the world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) It is amazing, the sense that one has when they know that death is at their door—especially for those who are followers of Christ. All of the haze seems to clear away and heaven becomes more in view as earth is literally fading. One’s priorities take focus and eternity is seated in its proper place. Much so now for Timothy who is receiving those last admonitions that a father would give a son. Let’s take these admonitions to heart today and put ourselves in Timothy’s place as we read through this letter. 1) Stir up the gifts, get going on what God has given you and use it for His glory, do not wait another day. 2) Don’t be afraid because fear is paralyzing. 3) Don’t be ashamed of the gospel and don’t worry about how things are turning out for me, just know God is good and faithful and you, son, keep your eyes on Jesus, He alone is the author and finisher of our faith. 4) Keep the faith, son, and daughter and do not lose the truth by being swayed as others of faith have. There is a pattern to live by, I have been faithful to live it out before you, use that to be encouraged in your walk with God. I believe the key to all of this is summed up in 2 Timothy 1:12, “…I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.” So lastly, family, be persuaded of this, HE is ABLE…

In Christ,
Carol

Tomorrow’s Reading: Joel 1-4; 2 Timothy 2

2 Kings 11,12; 2 Chronicles 24; 1 Timothy 6

2010-06-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

I Timothy 6 shares with us an outlook that may seem at first glance foreign to us. While Slavery is not prevalent today, as it was in the 1600-1900, here in the US or in biblical days over in the Middle East, the principles talked about are obvious: Respect the boss. Ephesians 6:5-8 says we should sincerely obey, respect, and serve a boss as if he were Christ Himself. The part that is so hard for us (our flesh) is scripture doesn’t say our boss must first act like Christ before being given that respect. It would be so much easier to serve if all leaders/bosses were gracious but that just isn’t how things always work out. Later, in Timothy, we see that there truly is something wonderful about taking our eyes off this world and its “THINGS” and setting our eyes and hearts on things of eternal life. Being rich whether monetarily or in power (as the boss) means nothing when compared to the riches of heaven. “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

So, as believers, we should serve with twice the diligence and cheerfulness, because of our faith in Christ, and as partakers of His free salvation.

Blessings,
Pastor Jason

Next Reading: Joel 1-3; 2 Tim. 1

I Timothy 5

2010-06-23T01:00:00.000-07:00

Core Values
The primary purpose of this epistle was to encourage Timothy in the difficult task of dealing with doctrinal errors and practical problems. This letter has been a handbook for pastors throughout the whole church age.
"Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity."One of the core values in the life of a believer is to approach relationships and personal involvement in ministry with respect. This admonition to Timothy from Paul the apostle can be applied from culture to culture and to generation after generation. Paul impressed upon Timothy the importance to exhort those who were his elder and to treat younger men like a brother. He was asked to remember the significance of those types of relationship and to embrace the role that each one plays.
We can learn that when correction or adjustments needs to be made, let it be done with absolute purity. This only will be effective when we stay in constant touch with God through prayer and the study of the Bible. We need to nourish our own soul in the words of faith and keep sound doctrine.

In this letter, the portion of scripture concerning the caring for the widows is dear to my heart. My youngest sister’s husband died at his job site several years ago and the impact it had on the entire family was staggering. As believers, the family knew to make a conscience effort to keep her safe and assist her when needed. Our busy lives was to be interrupted if she needed someone to confide in or help with the sink that was clogged. Any practical care that her household needed was a natural response for the extended family to do. The Cornerstone church then became the place of refuge and encouragement in the Lord for her. It was a place for her to grieve and experience healing.
It is good to see that the scripture gives clarity concerning the true widow, one who is without family. She is a woman of prayer, loving and a God-fearing person. Her life is then the responsibility of the church family. This is a powerful declaration to the world as the believer continues to take care of those who are without. A true blessing and reward from the Lord.
Have a wonderful week family!
Pastor Kim

2 Kings 8-9; 2 Chronicles 21; I Timothy 4

2010-06-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you for joining me as I share a few thoughts on a portion of todays Bible reading.

1 Timothy 4:12 "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

The entire book of Timothy has always been a great blessing to my life but the above verse served me especially well at a crucial time in my life. Approximately 26 years ago the Lord placed me in the ministry when I was at the tender age of 19. It was a challenge to serve in the capacity He had called me to being so young and inexperienced. In my search for guidance I found comfort and direction in 1 Timothy 4:12. I learned that the best way to live out my ministry was by living my life as an example. Love Jesus and love others by being a good example of a true follower of Jesus Christ. I feel this exhortation serves us all, not only when we are young, but whatever stage of life we find ourselves in at this time.

When my family and I left for the mission field several years later someone asked me what my strategy was going to be to reach a people who didn't know Jesus. My answer resounded with the lessons I had learned from this verse. I said "We are going to be an example of believers in Jesus Christ. We are going to live out our faith 'out loud' letting others see how we follow Jesus and then help them to do the same." Sound simple? Well, it really is. When you love the Lord with everything and follow Him wholeheartedly you will serve as an example that others can follow.

I pray each of us can fulfill this call, guiding believers and bringing many more into God's Kingdom.

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next reading: 2 Kings 10; 2 Chronicles 22,23; 1 Timothy 5

2010-06-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

Today’s Reading: I Kings 6-7; 2 Chronicles 20; I Timothy 3

“Now when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated.” 2 Chronicles 20:22

In this portion of scripture we see unfold before us a powerful picture of spiritual warfare strategy in the midst of adversity. The children of Israel, under Jehoshaphat’s leadership, pray, fast, mobilize, stand and sing. When faced with spiritual opposition we have a road map for victory in the Lord. In our reading, today we discover the story of the children of Israel surrounded on every side by the enemy, everywhere Jehoshaphat look he sees overwhelming circumstances stacked against them. Rather than allowing fear and uncertainty to immobilize him, he sends out a call for fasting and prayer. “Jehoshaphat was afraid and turned his attention to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.” (2 Chronicles 20:3 NASB) In verses 5 through 13, he brings the children together and begins to rehearse before them who God is. "O LORD God of our fathers, [are] You not God in heaven, and do You [not] rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand [is there not] power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You?” (Verse 6) Then it says that the Spirit of the Lord comes on one of the worship leaders from the tribe of Levite, Jahaziel, and he begins to prophesy. (Verses 14-18) “Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's.” In Ephesians 6, we see the New Testament version of warfare, I encourage you to read that portion as well today, verse 10 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” It is amazing that God uses us to help battle the forces of darkness, but we have this power and authority. In the end of this story, the children of Israel never even have to yield a sword, only songs of praise to defeat the enemy. When we fast, pray, praise, prophesy, and are strong in the power of His might, we take part in the destiny God has given us as believers and the victory is the Lords. Today, what is the battle God is calling you? May you see miracles in your circumstances and victory in His name.

In Christ,
Carol

Next Reading: 2 Kings 8-9; 2 Chronicles 21; I Timothy 4

Today’s Reading: I Kings 6-7; 2 Chronicles 20; I Timothy 3

2010-06-21T11:29:00.000-07:00

“Now when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated.” 2 Chronicles 20:22

In this portion of scripture we see unfold before us a powerful picture of spiritual warfare strategy in the midst of adversity. The children of Israel, under Jehoshaphat’s leadership, pray, fast, mobilize, stand and sing. When faced with spiritual opposition we have a road map for victory in the Lord. In our reading, today we discover the story of the children of Israel surrounded on every side by the enemy, everywhere Jehoshaphat look he sees overwhelming circumstances stacked against them. Rather than allowing fear and uncertainty to immobilize him, he sends out a call for fasting and prayer. “Jehoshaphat was afraid and turned his attention to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.” (2 Chronicles 20:3 NASB) In verses 5 through 13, he brings the children together and begins to rehearse before them who God is. "O LORD God of our fathers, [are] You not God in heaven, and do You [not] rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand [is there not] power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You?” (Verse 6) Then it says that the Spirit of the Lord comes on one of the worship leaders from the tribe of Levite, Jahaziel, and he begins to prophesy. (Verses 14-18) “Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's.” In Ephesians 6, we see the New Testament version of warfare, I encourage you to read that portion as well today, verse 10 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” It is amazing that God uses us to help battle the forces of darkness, but we have this power and authority. In the end of this story, the children of

Israel

never even have to yield a sword, only songs of praise to defeat the enemy. When we fast, pray, praise, prophesy, and are strong in the power of His might, we take part in the destiny God has given us as believers and the victory is the Lords. Today, what is the battle God is calling you? May you see miracles in your circumstances and victory in His name.

In Christ,

Carol

Next Reading: 2 Kings 8-9; 2 Chronicles 21; I Timothy 4

2 Kings 4-5; Ps.83; 1 Tim 2

2010-06-20T00:30:00.000-07:00

I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.

1 Tim 2:8

I always find it interesting that worship is so hard for the people of God. Especially open displays of worship. The lifting of hands, a sign of surrender to God can be so intimidating to some people. I think worship is where I truly find my place with God. He is the worshiped and I am the worshiper. It seams to me that this is the place for humility. This should be a place where, I need to be the one who is giving in to the desire of the one being worshiped. It seams like this is the last place I would claim “I will do it my way” He is the worshiped and I am the worshiper. Yet I find these words of Paul’s to be true even today. When you ask people to show outward signs of worship “Lift your hands” there will always be some who will dispute why they should lift there hands. There will be some that will get angry. Jesus told the woman at the well that God desires worship in spirit and truth not in anger and dispute. So this morning as we gather together to worship the living God, may we lift our hands to Him in joy and surrender, with thankful hearts for His love and His grace.

May God bless you and keep you in His love as we lift holy hands to Him in worship on fathers day remembering that this will truly bless our Father.

Pastor Jack

Next reading: 2 Kings 6-7; 2 Chr20; 1Tim 3;

2 Kings 1-3, Psa. 82, 1 Tim. 1

2010-06-19T00:19:00.000-07:00

3 Now the sons of the prophets who were at Bethel came out to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?” And he said, “Yes, I know; keep silent!” 4 Then Elijah said to him, “Elisha, stay here, please, for the LORD has sent me on to Jericho.” But he said, “As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So they came to Jericho.” 2 Kings 2:3-4

Elisha had what all great men and women of God have, they are tenacious about receiving God’s blessing. Elisha gets the news that the Lord was taking his mentor the Prophet Elijah. Elijah asks him to stay where he is while he goes to Jericho but he knows that if he is going to receive the blessings he needs to be there when God takes Elijah. But he is asked to stay and he has probably never disobeyed his master but he is driven by one passion and that is to receive everything he can from His ultimate Master, the Lord. Elisha’s passion reminds me of Jacob a young man who wanted God’s blessing more than anything. While his brother despised his birthright Jacob was devising ways to get it. I know he was devious and his deviousness would come back on him yet when it was all said and done, Jacob was the one who ended up with the blessing. God rewards those who diligently seek him and he calls it faith. (Heb. 11:6). God loves and rewards faithful diligence. Do you want God’s anointing, are you looking for God’s blessing, keep following, know that he is faithful so passionately pursue this is not the time to follow from a distance.

Pastor Rick

1 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 18-19; Col 4

2010-06-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:6

Paul's main focus in his life was to tell others about Christ, explaining and preaching the mystery of Christ. (Col 4:2-3) Paul is telling us that we should be wise in our contacts with non-Christians. Making the most of every opportunity to tell them about the Good News of Salvation. If we want others to hear what we have to say, then we need to handle our conversations with effectiveness. No matter how right we may be, it does no good when we are not courteous to the person we are sharing with. I have a tendency to cut people off when they talk. I don't mean to be rude, but it is. Being seasoned with "Salt" means that what we say and do should be encouraging the other person to continue in our discussion and lead us deeper into the the great mystery. A great meal is one that is seasoned correctly. Too much salt and it leaves a bad memory. Not enough salt, and it's quickly forgotten. If you feel people are ignoring or avoiding you maybe you just need to lay off the salt. Be a better listener and don't feel like you have to point out everyone's faults all the time. If you feel like you go unnoticed, how about adding some salt. Invite them to church or a growth group. Go big and invite them over for dinner, or simply ask if there is anything that they would like you to be praying for. Jesus was good at salting his conversations. He always had a crowd around and people were always wanting to here what he had to say. How about you? Are people drawn to you? Make it a point to respect those around you and make the most our of every conversation and encounter you have today.

Praying for your,

Pastor Joe
Next Reading: 2 Kings 1-3; Psalm 82; 1 Tim 1

1 Kings 20,21; 2 Chronicles 17; Colossians 3

2010-06-17T06:00:00.001-07:00

After succeeding his father, Asa, Jehoshaphat strengthened himself against Israel. The Bible says "... He sought the God of his father and followed his commands rather than the practices of Israel." (2 Chronicles 17:4)

Jehoshaphat sent teachers with the Book of the Law throughout Judah. Unfortunately he made the mistake of allying himself with Ahab. (2 Chronicles 18:1) One of Ahab’s problems is he didn’t like hearing the truth and this drove him to false prophets and false spirits. Jehoshaphat wanted a real prophet of God. Ahab didn't, saying "But I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me." (1 Kings 22:8) Micaiah prophesied disaster for Israel. In a strange parody of a self-fulfilling prophecy, Ahab says, "Didn't I tell you that he never prophesies anything good about me, but only bad?" In the coming battle, Ahab in disguise is killed and Jehoshaphat returns to his palace in Jerusalem. He then begins to turn the people back to God. He appoints judges in the land and in the fortified cities. In Jerusalem, he appoints Levites and family heads to administer the Law of the Lord. (2 Chronicles 19:8)

We should be encouraged to not stand in a place of pride or just wanting our ears tickled as Ahab did. Instead let’s be open to the Lord and attack every day from a place of humility saying, “Lord what would YOU have me do today”. (Jehoshaphat set his face to seek the LORD….2 Chronicles 20:3)

When Paul wrote to the Christians in Colossae (the book of Colossians) he did this because many of the Christians there had begun to listen to false teachers, like Ahab and his false prophets. One of the most devastating things about false teachings is so many of them have threads of truth or better said may seem so close to the gospel that it is hard to spot the truth from fiction. Yet these false teachings fork off on their own journey that runs down a crooked path. Paul really tried to emphasize Christ is superior in this letter. I believe Paul wrote more about Christ in Colossians than in any other letters. These letters remind us that our past life is gone, “water under the bridge”. Christ has made us free and calls us to live in that freedom. So, again let’s take every day and ask the Lord, “What would YOU have me do today?” as we live our lives for His service.

Blessings,
Pastor Jason

Next Reading: 1 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 18,19; Colossians 4

I Kings 17-19; Colossians 2

2010-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hey God, Are You There?

I Kings 17
There was a famine in the land and the lack of rain was taking it's toll. When Elijah encountered the widow and her poverty even though the situation looked hopeless, it was really just another opportunity to trust God.
Have you been in that place where you wondered if the Lord could see your situation and was He really listening? I‘ve been there and in spite of my struggles, I discovered God’s faithfulness to walk me through the uncharted territory. I had to hold tight to His hand.

When the widow’s son died, Elijah prays and God raises him from the dead. She then declares to the prophet Elijah. "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is the truth." I Kings 17:24
How many times the Lord has proven to His children that His word is true and He is there for us. Yet we struggle to hold on to and remember those times of His healing touch or unexplained provision. While we are facing a crisis, we can either grab hold or let go of God’s promises. Always GRAB HOLD and do not let go!

Truly there was a powerful demonstration of the Lord at Mount Carmel which caused the people of Israel to cry out and repent. Afterwards Elijah prays and he sends his servant out to look for some sign of the Lord’s intervention. He came back and said I saw ‘a small cloud the size of a man’s hand rising from the sea.’ It was just enough! There was a down pour! The season of famine was over! Let’s get ready and pray for the heavens to open up and pour out the rain of the Holy Spirit upon us. Let it saturate our live with His love so we can pour out to others.
So, whenever we are at place where we think the resources have dried up, the enemy seems to have the upper hand, we feel we are all alone and there is no place to turn. Remember the truth for He is Your Provider!
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7
Jehovah Jireh, God Our Provider!

God Bless,
Pastor Kim

I Kings 16; 2 Chronicles 15-16; Colossians 1

2010-06-15T00:05:00.000-07:00

“And they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul…” 2 Chronicles 15:12

This is a beautiful picture of surrendered lives. Notwithstanding, they have experienced the warning and rebuke of the Lord, but they heeded and came to a place of surrender and corporately seek to covenant with God. They are saying, “Lord, You are going to be first in our lives and heart.” What a precious thing when the children of the Lord come before Him with humility and servant hood and just surrender to His will and ways. This is the place of rest and renewal. This heart seeks, sees and experiences God’s power and work in a special way. It takes two parties to have a covenant, without two in agreement; it would not be a covenant. When we come to Christ we say, “I am committed to you,” and He has proven and stated His commitment to us throughout His Word. In Colossians 1, Paul exhorts believers to continue living in this faithful relationship being grounded and steadfast, not moving away from the hope of the gospel. “And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.” (Colossians 1:21-23) Paul fully understood the sacrifice of Christian living but He also did not want to go back to the old life of living under the burden of the law. Sadly, the children of Israel, although covenant makers in 2 Chronicles 15, do not take long to return to their sinful and rebellious ways. But we, dear children in the faith, we have hope in Christ who has given us the power to keep this faithful covenant relationship with Him. “But thanks [be] to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Be blessed today!
Carol

Next Reading: I Kings 17-19; Colossians 2

I Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 13-14; Philippians 4

2010-06-14T00:05:00.000-07:00

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7) Philippians 4:4 is probably one of the most quoted scriptures in the New Testament, next to John 3:16. And we have all used it at one time or another to encourage some one and we have all heard it used in efforts to encourage us. Rejoice…always…and again…rejoice! Just what you do not want to hear when you are in the dumps. However, this statement by Paul is not a one-time cheer rally; Paul had learned principles that initiated a pure joy, evident by the many encouraging portions of scripture we read when we study through his epistles. First, Paul learned to pray about everything, with a thankful heart…yes that was ‘everything’—what did this produce? Paul was not anxious about ‘anything’. Second, Paul understood that bringing our requests to God would produce a peace, which passes all understanding and that peace would guard our hearts and minds ‘through’ Christ Jesus. Then thirdly, we see in verses 11-13 that Paul was able to rejoice because he learned to be content, no matter what his state. “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13) Paul writes with full credibility as far as trials go and how we are to deal with them—he lived out what he preached. I think today is a good day to practice rejoicing…always…rejoice in the Lord and experience all of the wonderful benefits we read in this portion of scripture. Then fourth and last, do...'all things through Christ who strengthens...you'.

Rejoicing with you!
Carol

Next Reading: I Kings 16; 2 Chronicles 15-16; Colossians 1

1 Ki 13-14; 2 Chr.12; Phil.3;

2010-06-13T00:30:00.000-07:00

1 Kings 14:12-13
When you set foot in your city, the boy will die. 13 All Israel will mourn for him and bury him. He is the only one belonging to Jeroboam who will be buried, because he is the only one in the house of Jeroboam in whom the LORD, the God of Israel, has found anything good.

Maybe I have been contemplating future with God more lately because of my friend I was writing about last week. Or maybe I have been thinking about it more because of my age. Either way I find in theses scriptures some interesting statements that I want to put together. First I notice Gods view of saving the boy “the boy will die … because he is the only one in the house of Jeroboam in whom the LORD, the God of Israel, has found anything good”. I was thinking the opposite save the boy and kill the rest but God sees the blessing for the boy to take him home that he (the boy) will be in paradise instead of corrupted by the family of Jeroboam. God sees that as a reward, not a curse. Last week Rick spoke of a woman in the body that was ready to go home to be with the Lord and how she was actually angry she woke up from the operation. She wanted to wake up in the arms of Jesus. One day she will and what a day that will be for her. Paul says in Phil 3:8-9 “What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him”. Me to, I look forward to the day. As for now I want to claim (as maybe the boy did or as the woman Rick spoke of would say) as Paul did “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord”

May God bless you and your family and keep you focused on the future with Him and in the mean time on the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord”

Pastor Jack

Next reading 1 Ki 15; 2 Chr 13-14; Phil. 4;

Eph. 6; Song of Songs 1-4

2010-06-10T00:13:00.000-07:00

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Eph. 6

Have you ever had a really bad, bad day. No I’m not talking about necessarily that you were late for class or work and somebody got mad at you. Or that you had a bad hair day, I’m talking about that day when it seems like temptation is so close you can smell it and your faith is low. I mean when the evil ones darts are sharp and coming one after another. When you feel like Job and the bad new keeps coming one after another. Yes on that day. You never know when that day will come but for all of us it will come some day. Thank God it isn’t every day but there are enough of what the Bible calls an evil day that it warrants being prepared every day. The preparation is to put on the whole armor of God and then after you have it on then just stand. Stand tall and stand firm. Use that helmet because one of the darts is to question your salvation. Put on the girdle because if the enemy can get you to be dishonest, well he has sucked you into his world. Put on the breastplate because righteousness protects your heart. Have your feet covered because your feet will carry you to safe places when you are carrying the Gospel to others. And that shield well faith is what will defend you from his darts of doubt and unbelief. Then take the sword now stick him with a scripture for there is nothing more piercing than the word of God. Now go ahead and stand and stand and stand. Every day stand and then when that evil day comes you will already be doing it and when the day is over you will still be standing.

God Bless,

Pastor Rick

Ecclesiastes 10-12, Psalm 94, Ephesians 5

2010-06-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Ephesians 5:1-2

A common phrase is “imitation is the best form of flattery”. “I want to be just like you, Mom!” I heard those words more than once. We all remember trying to walk in our parents shoes or wearing an overgrown shirt or dress that belonged to an adult, we looked up too. Remember taking those clumsy steps in overgrown shoes? It feels like that sometimes, as a Christian doesn’t it. Being a Christian is taking one step at a time, fumbling around in shoes that don’t quite fit, all that time becoming more and more like the one we are imitating—Christ. Paul writes to the Corinthian church to “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.” (I Cor. 11:1) In Ephesians, Paul says that we are to ‘imitate God and walk in love.” Last time I looked, unless you are on a treadmill or moving sidewalk at the airport, you are going somewhere when you walk. So, this walking in love it taking us somewhere, this imitating the One we so love and desire to be like, although clumsy and awkward at times, is taking us in to places where our imitation and example of God’s love can transform, deliver and heal broken hearts. So, walk in love, it is pleasing to God…even like a sweet fragrant aroma.

Walking in love,
Carol

Next Reading: Song of Solomon 1-4, Ephesians 6

Ecclesiastes 7-9; Ephesians 4

2010-06-08T00:05:00.000-07:00

"When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future." Ecclesiastes 7:14

Sometimes terrible things happen to really good people, an unexpected death of a spouse, a painful illness of a faithful loved one, the betrayal of a spouse, a child walking away from the Lord. Trusting God when life is good is the easy part. Relying on him during difficult situations is when it is hard to understand how or why He would allow things to happen."Why God, I have been faithful?!" or "Why them God, they've served you with their whole hearts?" Sometimes there are questions that will never get answered, but God has plans for all of these people. Pastor Carol once said, "You can't carry other people's sorrow because you will never be able to experience God's grace for them."

Even while smack in the middle of a despairing situation it's easy to shrug in almost distaste at Paul's passage in James that says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds..." Consider it pure joy?! How?!

After having my glasses missing for two weeks, I finally got them back yesterday. It's amazing the clarity I had forgotten was missing from my eyesight. Taking a step back and changing our perspective may not give us all the answers we want or the changing of our circumstances, but we can refocus on the fact that Jesus has experienced all of our pain.

For the widow, He felt the pain of losing Lazarus; for the ill family member Christ physically endured pain on the cross; For the betrayed spouse, God felt the pain himself when your spouse turned against Him before they took the first step in betraying you; For the parent, none weighs closer to the heart than the story of the prodigal son.

We may not know the outcome but we know that "It is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." Philippians 2:13

Take hope in the promises he has for you, your future and the future of those you care about.

Ecclesiastes 4-6, Psalm 18, Ephesians 3

2010-06-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father…” Ephesians 3:14

Paul took his role as steward of the saints very seriously. Here we read one of the most powerful prayers throughout scripture in Ephesians 3:14-21. When one reads this portion of scripture, there is no doubt that Paul was a seasoned prayer warrior and that he prayed fervently for the body of Christ. He prayed that we would be strong in the Lord—a power that overcomes the strategy of the enemy and breaks strongholds (Ephesians 6). In verse 17, the prayer continues, “so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith…” Now, "that Christ might be at home in your hearts" means that your heart might be so in tune and all with Him that as He dwells within your heart there is no strain, there is no uncomfortableness with or for Him. We read often of prophets and followers who found this place of complete comfort in their relationship with Christ and as a model, we also desire this type of relationship. Pastor spoke on this relationship last week when he spoke about coming just face to face with the Lord. This kind of encounter transforms us in to a place of true communion. Paul’s prayer was that the body of Christ would each understand their position in Christ and what that powerful place of authority brings to those who ‘know’ the love of Christ, being filled with the ‘fullness’ of God. How can we be filled with the fullness of God when not even the heavens can contain Him? This is a supernatural thing! Have you ever limited God by your own limitations? You know, we can carry our limitations over in to the spirit realm. We might even categorize things and say: that is very easy, that is simple, no problem, oh that one, that one is impossible, that one is really too hard. This carries over in to our prayer times. “Lord this isn’t that difficult of a thing—I think You can handle this.” Or, Wow, Lord, this one is really hard, I don’t know.” On the other hand, maybe even worse, we do not even ask. Then, right when we think God has not heard us or it is just too hard, God wows us with something miraculous. Paul closes this prayer with “Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us…” (v. 20) He prays with a confidence and that is how we should pray—an unwavering faith that God is able and willing to do the impossible ‘according’ to the power that works in each of us. This kind of prayer brings glory to God because we are able to see God do the impossible when we pray with that kind of confidence.

Believing with you!
Carol

Next Reading: Ecclesiastes 7-9, Ephesians 4

Ecc1-3; Ps 45; Eph 2;

2010-06-06T00:30:00.000-07:00

But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved and God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms In Christ Jesus Eph 2:4-6

I was in a conversation with a pastor friend of mine. We were discussing him going home to be with the Lord (he is in very advanced stages of cancer). The doctors have told him he has maybe a few months left. In the conversation he said “I was thinking about when I go home, I will feel very lucky to be with Jesus’ he said “as I was realizing what that meant I said to myself getting there will be 99.999% grace.” Then he said “I thought how foolish, when I get there I will realize it was 100% grace, added with 100% mercy”. He is right, sometimes I think “that one I did out of pure love, I have really learned how to love. Then I realize I don’t even come close.” Sometimes I am foolishly proud of the things I have done for the Lord. Then I realize there is no comparison to His love and actions toward me alone, never mind all of us. Today I feel humbled by a friend who might soon go home to be with the Lord. A friend who I think of as an incredible man of God. A man who has accomplished great things for the kingdom. A man that realizes it is all Gods Grace, Mercy and Love that will take him home. Today I am thankful “because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy made us alive with Christ “ of that I will boast.

May God bless you and keep you in the knowledge of His great love and the riches of His mercy of that you can boast to all who know you

Pastor Jack

Next reading Ecc. 4-6; Ps.18; Eph.3;

Proverbs 28-29; Ps. 60; Rom 16

2010-06-03T22:43:00.000-07:00

"Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them." Romans 16:17

I must admit feeling a weight to be the one who comments on Paul's farewell and Benediction of his epistle to the Romans. A person's final words usually reveal what is important to him or her. I believe the things Paul addresses in his final farewell are utmost important to him and should be important to us. Paul warns of those who will try to deceive and undermine what he has been teaching. Jesus and Luke would call them wolves. (Acts 20; Matt 7)Paul tells us to keep an eye on those who cause division and lead others into sin. Jesus had some harsh things to say about those who cause anyone of his little ones to stumble. (Mark 9:42) Every false is either the Bible - plus or the Bible - minus. Satan with his wolves will try to nip at you, but that's all he can do. In v. 20 Paul tells us "....the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly..." The one who causes worry and fear is defeated by the God of peace. Paul's Benediction and farewell includes greetings from those Paul is ministering with. I believe Paul wants to remind us we are not alone and ultimately he wants us to know to focus on God not man. (v.25) So if the wolves are attacking or you've been the wolf disguised as a sheep causing division and offenses, were watching you. If your experiencing some type of fear or attack kick the wolf in the mouth and look unto Jesus.

To God be the Glory,

Pastor Joe
next reading: Prov 30,31; Ps 33, Eph 1

Prov. 25-27; Rom. 15

2010-06-03T00:02:00.000-07:00

12 And again, Isaiah says:

“ There shall be a root of Jesse;
And He who shall rise to reign over the Gentiles,
In Him the Gentiles shall hope.” Rom. 15:12

This quote from Isaiah 11:10 was a shocking prophecy to the Jews. The Jews always saw the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as their God. Gentiles were primarily excluded from the faith even though there had been provision in the law for gentile proselytes, the Israelites had pretty much given up on the rest of the world to such extent that only the evidence of Gentiles speaking in tongues would convince the Apostle Peter that God had accepted them. This happened well after the resurrection of Christ. But Isaiah prophecies that this root of Jesse, the father of David, would rise to reign over the Gentiles and He did rise from the dead to reign over Gentiles and in Him Gentiles shall hope. He is our only hope and the only hope of the world. How this very clear word of prophecy could pass by the Jewish scholars, rabbis and teachers, I don’t know, maybe it was just their prejudice or preconceived theology that caused them to miss the messiah when he came the first time to give the world hope. But for every prophecy of his first coming there are three about his second coming and there will still be people who will not be ready. 2 Peter 3:4 Says in the last days people will be saying “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” But the Lord will come in an hour that you think not. As long as Gentiles are still submitting to his reign and finding hope in him, I will still be looking up for the coming of the Lord.

Pastor Rick

Prov. 22-24; Rom. 14

2010-06-02T06:47:00.001-07:00

30 I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; 31 And there it was, all overgrown with thorns; Its surface was covered with nettles; Its stone wall was broken down. 32 When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: 33 A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest; 34 So shall your poverty come like a prowler, And your need like an armed man. Prov. 24:30-34

No one wants to think of himself as lazy. People can be labeled a lot of things an it does not bother them but Lazy is not one of them and yet many people will fit in this category. Solomon observes a man by his field. He notices that things are overgrown in the field and it wasn’t something that happened over night but there had been a long process of neglect. Now this mans field is not producing a proper crop and he will wonder how come I’m in poverty. The words of the lazy is always tomorrow, I’ll get to it later but a little neglect here and there and it adds up fast. The thing about laziness it that the sluggard doesn’t connect the consequences with the action. If the this lazy man was asked would you trade an hour nap everyday or a rocking chair and TV for object poverty up front he would say know. But the satisfaction of the flesh never shares the consequences up front, it just promises the moments pleasure. Where this is most noticeable is in peoples spiritual field. Thorns and nettles begin to grow slowly when our spiritual lives are neglected. People think well it won’t hurt me to neglect reading the bible today, I don’t want to become legalistic about it. Go to church, be involved in a small group well these things can be skipped after all I have been do them for years, but neglect adds up as diligence adds up. I know that I am probably preaching to the choir here. If you are reading this it is probably because you are anything but a lazy Christian. The truth is still the truth, and each of us has to evaluate our lives to see if there is a consistency of diligence or are we in slippage. Work holism is not the solution to laziness it is simply faithfulness.

Pastor Rick

Prov. 19-21; Rom. 13

2010-06-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

11 And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts. Romans 13:11-14

We are expected to know the time and you know it is not the designation on the face of your watch but the season of the culture, our life and spiritual climate. Jesus said watch and pray for you don’t know the time that the master is coming. What we do know is that we are closer to the coming of the Lord than when we first started the trek of faith. I was at the hospital bedside of a dear saint of God this week. She was going into surgery but not given to much chance of making it through. She said to me well pastor I guess it doesn’t matter if it’s post-trib or pre-trib. She was expecting that she wouldn’t make it to the coming of the Lord. Thankfully she made it through the surgery but her statement has been true for 2000 years. No one has had to deal with whether it is pre or post tribulation and yet it has always been true “the day is at hand”. Paul is saying don’t live freshly because you are closer to meeting God face to face than ever before. But I think for us as we look at world events and spiritual climate we are a generation that might be able to say that some of us will still be alive at the coming of the Lord. Time might be short for all of us simply because time is running out. I know this might sound like alarmist talk, that is not my intention, I only want to be a realist. I want to know the time and so I keep my eyes open to the prophetic landscape of scripture and my newspaper and it seems these days they are saying a lot of the same things.

Here, there or in the air,

Pastor Rick

Today's Reading: Proverbs 16-18; Romans 12

2010-05-31T00:05:00.001-07:00

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

Paul knew something; he knew how to experience the fullness of God’s life living through him. He had learned to yield and to surrender and present his body to God as a living sacrifice, recognizing that this was his “spiritual act of worship” as the New International Version reads. In Romans 12-16, Paul turns to the practical application of all he has previously written in this letter. Paul goes into detail about what it means to have Jesus Christ as Lord of every area of life. Paul likens Christians to members of a human body. There are many members: the hands, feet, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, etc., and each has a distinctive function individually but cannot function properly without the other. All of the body is needed for the health of the body. The key is found in allowing the power of Christ to live through us in unity with others while in diversity. As the body has distinctive functions so do we in our unique giftedness. When we allow God to use our unique gifts, the body of Christ flourishes and everyone benefits. In verse 9, Paul writes, “Love must be sincere.” This love is a love without pretense. This love is not just an emotional love, but it is love in action. This sincere love is love that honors, encourages, serves, is patient in affliction, unselfish in giving, hospitable and faithful in prayer. Quite a list isn’t it. It can be overwhelming when we try to measure up to such a measuring stick! Thankfully, we have the help and aid of the Holy Spirit. This kind of living is under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and as we allow Him to help us, we allow the law of God’s kingdom to fulfill His purposes in our living and being. Therefore, church body, go ahead, and be amazed today at the life that we have been afforded through the work of Christ on the cross. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to thrive through us as He perfects the work of God’s Spirit in our lives in love today.

Blessings!
Carol Danna

Next Reading: Proverbs 19-21; Romans 13

Prov. 13-15 Rom 11

2010-05-30T00:30:00.000-07:00

Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred. Prov. 15:16-17

As we look at the wisdom of the wisest man that ever existed, the richest man that ever lived, he says to us that if you consider all things than you will find having nothing but the fear (respect) of God is better than having great wealth in your life. You are better off with a meal of vegetables or simple food from your garden with love than you are with a great feast of the fatted calf with hatred. Maybe because he had so much, he was always comparing great riches to having little or nothing. I was listening to a man on the radio today saying “if he had only bought Apple sock I would be a rich man today” the truth is knowing what is important to invest into and what will benefit you the most is a tricky thing. I certainly did not buy “Apple” stock or I would be rich today in money. However, I am willing to listen to the wisest and riches man in existence and invest in my future by storing up a treasure in heaven. By investing into a piece of the rock that brings forth living water. I choose to invest in Love and Respect (fear) for the king of the universe.

So I stand with you this mourning, as Joshua did so many years ago. We stand believing in the same God that Joshua trusted in. We declare this morning one more time “as for me and my house we choose the Lord.” May God bless you and keep you in His protection and Grace as the world around you sees your choice and knows where you treasure lies….

Pastor Jack

Next reading Prov. 16-18 Romans 12

Proverbs 10-12; Romans 10

2010-05-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you for joining me as I share with you some thoughts on a portion of today's Bible reading.

Romans 10 speaks of faith and salvation. You can sense the Apostle's heartful desire that all would be saved by faith in Christ, and that is also our hearts desire today. But what is faith and how does one obtain it? Let me offer you this definition for Faith. Faith is believing that God is who He says He is and that He is able to do what He says He will do. How do you get there? Well, let me walk you through my version of the Apostle Paul's questions, which he wrote in Romans 10:14-15, to answer that.

Q: How can people call upon the Lord if they do not believe He exists nor that He is who He says He is?
A: They can't. They need to believe that He is who He says He is and can do what He says He can do.
Q: How can they believe in Him, so they can call upon the Lord, if they haven't heard about Him?
A: They can't. They need to hear the word of God, for Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Q: How can they hear the Word of God, so they can believe, so they can call upon the Lord, if there isn't any preacher?
A: They can't. They need someone to communicate the Word of God to them.
Q: How can someone preach, so others can hear the Word of God, so they can believe, so they can call upon the Lord, unless they are sent?
A: That's the kicker. Everyone who has already confessed with their mouth the Lord Jesus and believed in their heart that God has raised Him from the dead is automatically, in essence, sent by God to communicate His word.

Sent → Preach → Hear → Believe → Call → Saved → Sent → Preach→... etc.

We are called to continue the cycle of salvation. It's up to us. Let's get a spiritual pedicure, walk the walk and be wise, for he who wins souls is wise!

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Proverbs 13-15; Romans 11

Proverbs 7-9; Rom 9

2010-05-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

" I have peace offerings with me; Today I have paid my vows, " Proverbs 7:14

I have been shepherding young adults for almost twenty years and far too often have witnessed the same fate as this young man in Proverbs 7. It's sad to read that He did no know it would cost his life. (v.23) It is true that youth many times are devoid of understanding (v.7) It seems pretty obvious the road he was heading down and the decicions he was was making were not wise and eventually did lead him to the slaughter. To seduce the young man she tells him she has made peace with God or perhaps, it's ok I am a Christian. Now before we continue to push blame on the young man I feel our reading today can point us inward to the same mistakes the young lad made. My observation and research tells me it doesn't take much wisdom that sin has places it dwells. The young lad scene the way she was dressed, approached her at night and was looking in places he shouldn't. Many times our eyes can wonder where they shouldn't and our legs take us places that can lead down a rode of destruction. Instead of fleeing or quickly turning our gaze elsewhere I have found many will buy into the lie of the seducers comments or thoughts will be made like. I'll just not look at the bad scenes of the movie. He or she say's there a Christian, even though you know they don't go to church or walk in ways of the Lord. I am being too legalistic. God understands my heart. Just as the young man didn't realize what his compromise would cost him, we too are guilty of not being aware of how even the slightest compromise will cost us. I suggest to choose this day to take a different path to work or school. Maybe it's time to watch a different show on TV or delete a website from the computer. Ask the Lord for wisdom to reveal to you in what ways you have been compromising or blowing through a stop sign the Lord has firmly established in your life.

Taking inventory with you,
Pastor Joe
Next reading: Prov 10-12; Rom 10

Prov 4-6; Romans 8

2010-05-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

As we read through Proverbs 4 there is a main theme we can see here and this is that the condition of our heart will effect everything else in our lives. Things like putting other people before ourselves, living in wisdom & staying focused on the Lord are all sighted here in these scriptures. The condition of our heart and the choices we make will all culminate in the direct outcome of our spiritual lives.. "Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life." Proverbs 4:23

Take a look at our world; I would say many of us have car alarms (most cars come with them built in these days) yet a car alarm only works if we respond to the sound of the alarm. Sometimes those things will go on for hours without anybody even turning a head. How about our spiritual alarms? Shouldn't we be even more sensitive to the alarms that go off inside us? That still small voice. Isn't there more importance in these eternal matters than the physical property we have? Having all the wisdom of Solomon doesn't help if we don't listen to the alarms going off. What comes to mind here is; "discernment" - the ability to determine and choose the good from the bad, the right from the wrong.

While as infants we lack discernment, as we grow up we develop this trait. Sometimes as adults even though we have developed discernment and can clearly speak to friends about the choices they should make we still have a hard time "discerning" what is good for our hearts.

Consider this... If you have alarms going off, maybe even some that have faded to the background because you have ignored them for so long, consider listening a little more carefully. Take the triggers of those alarms and present them to God. Bring forth a repentant and broken heart. Let's ask Him to create in us a "new heart". Let's place our hearts at the foot of the cross and experience the forgiveness God purchased for us there. Then, let's watch over our hearts with all diligence; because from it flow the issues of life.

Blessings my Friends,
Pastor Jason

Next Reading: Prov 7-9; Romans 9

Proverbs 1-3; Romans 7

2010-05-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you for joining me as I share with you some thoughts on a portion of today's Bible reading.

When I was younger I would dream about the possibility of one day serving in Law Enforcement. I pursued this dream academically graduating from college with a degree in Administration of Justice but I never actually joined the force, as the Lord had other plans for me. Why was I driven to this career? Well, there were many reasons, some good, some maybe not so good. I often thought it would be exciting catching the "bad guys" while helping the "good guys", not to mention being able to drive at awesome speeds. The power to "do justice" was also appealing to me, since I didn't like lawbreakers. Wow, what an eyeopener when I realized that I also was a lawbreaker... and I didn't like that. What I wanted to do often times didn't result in what I actually did. Paul discusses this issue in Romans 7:19 "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice." When I tried to do things in my own power I would usually be unsuccessful. It's due to the sinful nature that lives in us. It's powerful and we are unable to overcome it in our own strength. Fortunately I discovered that in Christ there was freedom... freedom from the law... from the law of sin and death. With the help and power of the Holy Spirit we are now able to fulfill the law, which is good, the law of LOVE, as we have been married to another - to him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. Ro. 7:4

If you're struggling with this issue, wondering who can deliver you from this "body of death" (Ro. 7:24), let me tell you, the answer is Jesus Christ our Lord. (Ro. 7:25) He not only can, but will deliver you so that you will be able to serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter. Ro. 7:6

Following Jesus Christ,

Pastor Juan

Next Reading: Proverbs 4-6; Romans 8