Song: They Will Know We Are Christians By Our Love
Scripture Reading: From Micah 7
Chorus Time: One verse of each song, unless requested for more
= Amazing Grace, Mansion Over The Hill Top
Lighting of the Candles
Offering: Hymnal #572: “Praise God!” (Howard)
Prayers of the Saints and “The Lord’s Prayer”
Hymnal #365: “I Am Weak but Thou Art Strong” (Howard)
Message: “Peace or Sword” (Matthew 10:34-36)
Sermon Notes and Comments: Pastor Stanley shared words that built upon these words from the Book of Matthew. We are reminded how comforted we are by the name of Jesus. We also know that the distractions of this world can keep us from our faith (Satan is not equal to God but he is evil at work across this world). As followers of Christ, we fight evil thoughts and ways but we also have struggles. God knows our struggles and when we pursue our faith, His Holy Spirit helps us to fight the good fight. Our sermon closed with words about what a believer (of Christ) is versus a disciple (of Christ). We all would probably agree that we are believers and are working to be disciples as best we can. A good way to know if we are on track - is when our relationship with God is the most important thing in our life. Is it for you?
Hymnal #244: “Jesus, I Will Trust Thee” (Howard)
End of service.
And as you pursue this week to come, remember:
Faith is the step between promise and assurance. Miracles seem so out of reach for our feeble faith.
But every miracle, large or small begins with an act of obedience.
We may not see the solution until we take the first step of faith.
Even when God has done a miracle in our lives, our troubles may not be over.
God’s provision is never given in order to let us rest upon it.
We need to depend on Him as we face each new trial.