The Wise and Foolish Builders

24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

28 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, 29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.
Matthew 7:24-29

Sunday's message is clear from the scripture that Jesus spoke. Hear & Practice or Hear & Do Not Practice. Please go read Matthew chapters 5,6,7! The Sermon on The Mount are passages we can abide in order for us to grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus and to live a life for Him that others can be affected by.

Everyone comes to an age of knowing right from wrong and chooses which one to act on. In Jesus' sermon, he guides us through a way to live that will be different on purpose. For example, Jesus tells us adultery starts in the heart by just looking or being angry can be considered murder. These are heart problems just like all sin and Jesus wants our heart! He can't have it if there is sin taking priority. We must hear what Jesus says and then live what Jesus says.

Let's not make an excuse of "I'm only human". For sure we are going to fail because we are imperfect and weak. All the more reason for us to work harder. Being a disciple takes effort. Maybe that's why we give into temptation because it's easy. Running away like Joseph when Potiphar's wife gave him an irresistible offer takes effort! Trusting God when you are called to a new thing that makes you nervous takes effort. Effort is a prayer life that seeks God consistently & first. (Matthew 6:33) Effort is getting into the Word to know God and his expectations, to know his will, to be encouraged, to know how to respond. More of God, less of us.

Being a Disciple or a Christian is the same thing just different words. Disciple isn't a word  used for special people of the faith. You can't say "I'm a Christian, just not a Disciple." They both should refer to people who believe and follow Jesus. Studying these words we can see that Disciple is used around 250 times or more in the New Testament and Christian is used abut 3. Historically, the word Christian was being used for mockery of those of the faith and then as a religious label. The early church spoke of words like " disciple, brother, saints, sister, believer." Historically and culturally now, we can use both words. But Disciple is a deep, rich and active term. It emphasizes commitment and life transformation.

The difference between being with Jesus and without Jesus is simple... Are you doing what He says or not? Not just some things, but all things. Pray for God to point out anything in your life that you need to start doing for Jesus, as a Disciple. 

18 “Hear then the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. 20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. 22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 23 As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.” Matthew 13:18-23

When referring to our heart, I always think of our inner- most being. Our soul. Who we are at the deepest and most spiritual root. Really, something our creator only knows the truth of. I believe we can experience soul affecting moments that reveal the condition of our hearts.

First, being convicted of sin by the Holy Spirit and the call to salvation. God uses his spirit to communicate that we are away from Him and need to do something about it.
Second, experiencing loss of loved ones. We hurt and mourn because we know how sacred life is. From a child in the womb to the aged human whose time has come, it breaks our heart to see death.

As I ponder on these things, I must look at my own heart. Why do some deaths bother me and others do not.  Why is it that sometimes I am so heavily convicted and other times I seem to get away with sin just fine. Why do I experience high and lows of the movement of God's spirit. It's not that He is inconsistent. I can only hold myself accountable to my faith, so what is going on?

Why is my soul rocky or thorny sometimes? Maybe it's because something else has control of it. From self to sin to an idol. I give my worship to lesser things- corrupting my soul. Being a disciple means to give up everything that could separate me from Jesus, in order to be like Him.

Jesus desires our hearts and we seem to give Him much less. For the savior who gave us everything to escape from eternal separation - Does Jesus Not Deserve Our Whole Heart?

Watching or reading the news can be overwhelming these days.
No matter how you get your news, it can create stress, confusion, anxiety, depression, and anger. We hear or read things and don’t know what to believe anymore. I’m not saying people can’t have their own opinions or beliefs but I will say this: we’re letting it destroy us. From political issues to much deeper problems, we are watching the world and for us in the United States, our country -spiral further into chaos. We can’t run from it or even ignore it.
So how does the Word of God encourage us?

Not Liberal vs. Conservative: It’s Spiritual.

Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Political parties are just cover-ups. They’ve become idols.
The enemy has convinced people for a long time to worship anything but God.
Satan doesn’t always tempt people to worship him—he just lures them into ignoring God altogether. Centuries ago, people bowed to golden idols; now, it’s evolved into many other things. Worshiping a political party is just one example. (An idol can be anything.)
I pray there are disciples of Jesus in politics doing the right thing. And just because I personally don’t want much to do with it all doesn’t mean that someone else can’t make an impact.

But we must understand: things are deeper than what’s being portrayed.
The decisions being made, the division, the confusion—it’s spiritual.
Our souls are being tampered with.

So how are we, as followers of Jesus, going to stand for truth—truth soaked in the grace and love of Christ?

Rejoice. Be Patient. Pray.

Romans 12:12
“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.”

No matter what happens, we can trust that nothing happening now or coming tomorrow has caught Jesus off guard. He’s not napping. He’s not distant.
Christ is sitting on the throne, making intercession for us.
So let me ask you:
•Are you putting your hope in the next ballot?
•Are you trying to make enough money to pay your worries away?
•Are you hoping everything just gets better “at the flick of a switch”?
Jesus is the only hope.
He came to earth to die for our sins in our place BUT He didn’t stay dead!
The Spirit of God raised Him from death to life. And that same power is our hope. That’s the hope we rejoice in -the hope that brings us from death to life!

We can’t see the future or the outcomes of what’s being decided.
All the more reason to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
There are people on every side who are confused, angry, afraid, hurting and difficult to love. But they matter! If it’s troubling for you, pause.
Take a deep breath. Literally—inhale, exhale. Be patient. So much is out of our control already...why let your mind and heart spiral? Satan thrives in confusion and chaos.
He plants lies in our minds that affect our hearts and bodies.

In the middle of everything—
every newscast, every conversation, every social media post, every stranger, every movie, every sign, every thought, every fear—

Keep on praying. ALERT THE KING.

Pray with faith and trust.
Pray with hope and power.
Pray in the name of Jesus, who is seated on the throne.
Pray without stopping.
Pray to take every thought captive.
Pray instead of worrying.
Pray for wisdom.
Pray for self-control.
Pray to worship God.
Pray with thanksgiving.
Pray and then pray some more.

There is power in prayer.
When you think you’ve prayed enough—keep going!

Matthew 22:36–40
“Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”
Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

First, if you haven’t already, put your trust in Jesus and make Him your Lord today.
He loves you. He misses you. He wants you—so much so that He came to die in your place.

Second, Jesus commands us to love Him with everything we’ve got—and to love our neighbor. It’s not optional.
If He’s not receiving your 100% worship—get rid of whatever’s in the way.
If you’re not loving everyone—check your heart.

Jesus gave no “love them only if…” clauses. No exceptions.


This world is a mess.
But you don’t have to be-
Not with Jesus!

Do you have dreams? Not  to play under the spotlight or to retire and set sail, but as you sleep, do you have dreams? Are they vivid and seem real? Do you even remember them after you awake and think "what the heck was that all about?" HowStuffWorks says that 50% of dreams are forgotten within minutes of waking up.  98% of people dream, even if they do not recall it.

I had a dream one time when I was elementary school ( I am now 26). It was so vivid, real, and scary, leaving an impression on me to this day.
I was running from something that was trying to bring me harm. Even though I had no clue of what that something was, I knew to run for my life. As I was running up the road in front of Portland GB Church, people were running ahead of me. My mother was one of them running, not stopping to help me as I cried out for her. I do not know why she would not stop for me.  Like why did she not understand the I needed her, my own mother.
I have a few explanations of how to interpret this dream that is etched in my brain, but not here to discuss them.

Let's look at Hebrews 2:18 -
Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.
As I look back to this dream and reflect on life, there can be situations where we feel alone. Our minds convince us that no one gets it or no one can relate. That in the midst of a storm or hardship that no one cares and they won't help you. That in your chaos or journey, you are alone. That's a lie from hell.
Jesus gets it. He went through it. From temptations and suffering as a human, to giving it all on a cross instead of us, He understands. He knows your broken, anxious, confused heart and mind. He has experienced stress, praying in the garden and sweating blood type of stress. He knows how you feel, but loves you so much, He doesn't want to keep you in them feels. He did something about it through His resurrection that brings power and hope. Through tearing of the veil, we can go straight to the King with our life...and he encourages us to do so! 
1 Peter 5:7 
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares for you. 

Do not let the enemy, satan, who is the ruler of this world -lying, accusing, deceiving, trying to destroy you- have a say in your heart & mind. You have Jesus who understands you and fights for you, always. He gave his life out of love, for you. 

The church is a living organism. The source of life is the spirit of the living God at work in each and every one of us. You matter. You are important. You are needed. Don't let the enemy lie to you, convincing you otherwise. The same spirit that rose Jesus from death to life is the same spirit that lives within us. It's our power. Sure, God can be without us, he was at one time..but He created us to be in fellowship with him and with each other.

Thank You for gathering as the church!
 "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." Acts 2:42

There is something for us to be doing as the body of Christ. Matter of fact many things!
1.) Committed to growing in knowledge. From worship on Sunday mornings to Sunday School and small groups. We should take the Word of God seriously and also put it to use in our lives.
2.) Being with each other is so vital. Someone misses you. Someone encourages me. Someone teaches me. Someone learns from you. There is strength in numbers and part of winning a battle is staying close together. All of us.
3.) Breaking of bread can refer to communion or enjoying a meal with brothers and sisters in Christ. Both have the ability to draw us together in the name of Jesus.
4.) " A church that prays together is a church that stays together" Prayer can move mountains and work miracles in the name of Jesus. Prayer saw Peter released from prison, by faith of the church.  Prayer will direct the church to continue in God's will, too.

Thank You for Serving as the church!
We all can bring something to the table. In fact we need to. I love how at Halltown has many hands which makes the work light. I couldn't write it all down. One I'd forget someone and two I'm not sure it would do it justice by the written word. Thank You for pouring in and investing in our students, who aren't  the church of tomorrow but today! Thank You for giving your best in missions, locally and internationally. Thank You for taking ownership of the campus where we freely worship week after week. Thank You for praying for the state of our fellowship. Thank You for doing anything & everything with the Gospel in mind to point people to Jesus! Thank You giving. Thank You for showing up. Thank You for listening. Thank You for being a part of The Church.

As we continue to pursue a Life of Holiness, we are looking at the fruits of the Spirit and how each one should be present in our life. Made possible by the Holy Spirit present in our life only, the fruits are behaviors and characteristics that mimic or reflect Christ. We find ourselves fighting the temptation of our own flesh to not produce fruits of our own desires. You can read about flesh vs spirit in Galatians 5.

How fitting as we discuss the fruits, gentleness and kindness, that it pairs so well with Matthew 11:28-30
28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Striving to live a life of holiness, to reflect Christ, the walk of sanctification can be wearisome. Maybe it is the fact that we won't fully escape temptation of the flesh until eternity. Or possibly we struggle because our focus is on something other than Jesus. We could even be so prideful to admit we are wrong about something and unwilling to change that it is exhausting us!

Thanks be to Christ for the free and gracious invitation to find rest in Him! You might be tired of "spinning your tires" going no where. You can't seem to "find the light at the end of the tunnel". We keep going back to sin or falling for temptation of the flesh to what we want. The truth is there is "no light at the end of the tunnel". The light is only from Jesus.

What does it truly mean to run to Jesus for this rest He offers? Let's first be willing and lay down our pride to admit we might be selfish to our own desires. Let's admit that what we are doing is not working for anything. Situation varies from life to life, but Jesus is the Word & the Word directs us in all things. Grace is available for us, but our responsibility is to search for it and apply it to our life. Too often we want grace, but not the responsibility & accountability to put in effort. Effort to pray & meditate on God's word. Effort to run away in the face of temptation like Joseph from Potiphar's wife. Control your emotions and not let them control you - as Cain failed to do so which led to murder of his own brother.

Jesus wants to relieve you. From self, strain, stress, suffering, sin - ALL OF IT! And the rest is for ALL OF US. Only in Jesus.

Patience is defined as the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset. Easy right? Probably not. This is a fruit of the spirit that I have been told you do not want to pray for, because you may have to go through some training. It is not fun to wait on our desires to be fulfilled. It usually leads to anger, or at least frustration, just ask the person who caused you to lose your patience today. They likely remember your response.

◦We should be patient with God because he has been patient with us.
◦We should be patient with Christians because they belong to God.
◦We should be patient with family because God has placed us in this group.
◦We should be patient with non-believers because they have not begun their journey with Christ.
◦We should love our Enemies because God does.

How do we patiently love like Jesus?

The way to learn to love everyone is to love God first. We gain peace as he teaches us to see the soul of a person, or the unimportance of a given situation compared to the soul of a person. God points us to a loving life, not a selfish life.
Selfishness is really the cause of impatience, and sin in general.

I appreciate Brother Mike talking about not practicing and not exercising our patience with others, or in life situations, is the reason we don’t have the patience he is offering us



James 5:7-12 was the scripture used for Sunday's Worship. Together we are going through the Fruits of the Spirit and connecting them to A Life of Holiness. To be holy is to be like God; what better example other than Jesus and his fruits that can be produced in us.

Maybe your first step to holiness is to make the decision to follow and trust Jesus?

Romans 10:9 tells us" if we openly confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Taking the step of faith to believe is enough to be saved. Being saved means you have declared and believed,  then taking the next step is to live a life of repentance and discipleship. Sounds like a lot? But it's simple because it's a day by day walk.

1 John 1:9 tell us how to live in repentance
" If we confess our sins he (Jesus) is faithful and just to forgives us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness"

Discipleship is a day by day walk of connecting with a local fellowship, the Word & Prayer, and serving however God has called you!
 
Reach out to us through the Connect Card on our Halltown App if you have made this decision or would like to talk to a Pastor about your faith!

35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36 And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”

Mark 4:35-41

This past Sunday we read and heard about the power in the presence of Jesus and the peace only He can provide!
"they took him with them" stuck out to me from this account.
Do we take Jesus with us and if we do, why do we forget what He is capable of?

Jesus is not just for our Sunday morning worship experience. He wants to live in our hearts and minds. Everyday, Everywhere, with Everyone. We keep Jesus in a confined, useless space if we only see Him on Sunday mornings.

How do we spend time with Him during the week? I don't mean just lifting up grace before our lunch or reading the daily verse notification on your phone. We have the full availability of the King! When the veil of the temple was torn, Jesus was showing us that we can come to Him anytime with anything!
Sure, you keep your bible in your car or truck, but are you opening more than just on Sunday? Are you taking Him with you into work on Monday morning? Is he involved in your conversations? Does your Facebook scrolling get more time than His Word? Can your neighbors see Him in your attitude, words, and actions?

If we are taking Him with us everywhere, let's not forget the power He has, which is all of it and more! From calming the chaos in your life to working a miracle by praying in His name. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is everything! Have great faith in His presence.

It's by the Holy Spirit we take Jesus with us. The comforter and strength by which we can live everyday without hesitations. Just as Jesus already told the disciples they would be going to the other side, Jesus has a purpose for you laid out. Go to Him in prayer and spend time with Him to experience peace in His presence.

We just had a team safely return from a long trip to Vietnam. An amazingly beautiful country and people we experienced! Coffee, Scooters, Food, Colleges, & more words describe the week.

What We Did 

So many of our conversations which were held guarded by certain vocabulary we could and could not use, was taken place around coffee and/or food. We would learn the needs and experiences of teachers. Local/native teachers and foreign teachers. They teach conversational English and the rules behind grammar. Learned how much they invest in people all over the world who want to learn the language. Some teachers even start up businesses to supplement their teaching like a CrossFit in Jordan!

The organization we learned from doesn't just pop up and go to work. They have to work hard at getting the visas, connecting with colleges, and finding the workers. Following the rules is important and challenging at the same time. All though, for example, as a Christian going to teach English when it comes to sharing your faith, you do it on your own time. The importance of building relationships with the people comes from the lack of trust with a foreigner who may not care about them at all. Who cares what you think or believe when you don't know each other. This is a country with deep cultural roots to navigate. Sly as a serpent and gentle as a dove. The agenda, if you will, is to just love people unconditionally and build relationships, something we should be doing anywhere and everywhere.

We got to experience egg coffee that was good until you tasted the coffee, then it would grow hair on your toe nails it was so strong. Some of the best food ever ( if you don't believe me, buy a ticket and go try it). A crowded place to dodge scooters like a video game kept you on your toes. or off if you get hit. Friendly people greeted you everywhere you went. College students with goals and hobbies like us laughed at our English words. Definitely a different trip format than we usually take overseas.

From 2-4 weeks trips to selling everything and becoming a teacher full-time is an option. Much like Tommy & Susie Booker going to China to be English teachers! Either path is a calling to listen for! The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few is an understatement.

It really challenged myself and the others on the trip. Challenging and even improving how to reach, work, and communicate with people. Learning how important it is get to know someone. Being patient to keep the vision of the long game in sight. When you can't become a church for 25+years, you see the value of planting seeds instead, but how you do that matters. Your tone matters. Your smile matters. Your attitude matters. Your words matter.

Pray with us as we search God's plan for the future of Vietnam and how we can invest in them. If you want to know more, sit down over a cup of coffee with the guys who went!
 

I do not have a great memory. Not sure why, could be due to a list of injuries to the head, or just unfocused. Memories pop up from time to time. As much as I am blessed with amazing and enjoyable ones, unfortunately the bad, immature, and negative memories find their way back. Memories I've repented from needing a reminder that they don't have control over me, I guess. (thanks to Jesus' forgiveness)

No reason to get into detail with the sin I lived out and regret, but there are things I have said I am not proud of. Even with apologies, you usually cannot take a lot of that back. It could be insulting, hurtful, and negligent words that destroy or tear down as soon as it comes off the lips. I could have meant to speak in a humorous and relaxed manner still to do harm. How much could I have avoided if I just took a second to think about the next words I wanted to say. I did not come up with this, just saw it posted and find it encouraging:

T.H.I.N.K 
Is it True?
Is it Helpful?
Is it Inspiring?
Is it Necessary?
Is it Kind?

A good Bible verse to pair with this can be Ephesians 4:29-
 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

My momma, grand-momma, or yours have said before " If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all." What wonderful advice! The hope we have received in Jesus Christ, who gave His life for us but rose from death giving us salvation, should make us the most encouraging, loving, uplifting, and positive people!

Just slow down and take a moment to THINK.

I’ve always been tender-hearted. I’m a crier. Once when I was 8 or 9, I attendedthe funeral of a friend’s family member. I had never met this person, knew nothing about them, but I sobbed the whole funeral. I’m talking uncontrollable weeping. It was ridiculous. I also have a soft spot for old men eating alone in restaurants. I just think it’s so sad. Which is why my family has known me to walk up to our table with a little old man we don’t know to share a meal with us.

On top of that, I’m a fixer – if I see a problem or a need, I feel like I need to fix it. I know I’m not actually able to resolve every issue, but I’m usually willing to give it a try. Both of these qualities of mine contributed to my desire to start a clothes closet at Halltown. I wanted to help those who were in serious need of basic necessities that we so often take for granted.

We have clean clothes to wear each day. We have roofs over our heads, shoes on our feet, food on the table, while so many people struggle daily to provide even the most basic needs for their families. Halltown has served many people over the past 8 years through the Clothes Closet ministry. Our biggest community outreach took place last Saturday, February 8. We took the majority of the clothes we had in the clothes closet for anyone who needed them. We had a lot of people stop by and take care of their needs. There were so many people with multiple bags full of items for their families, thanking us repeatedly.

And while it’s important to fulfill those basic needs for people, I hope their biggest take-away was ‘these people love Jesus.’ I hope we made it evident that we were doing it all for the Lord. I hope we planted a seed. Saturday we were there to be the hands of feet of Jesus. I’m so thankful for the almost 50 volunteers that came out to help serve our community and share the love of Jesus. I was truly overwhelmed by all the support. I hope each person involved, from the helpers to the helped, got a blessing. I know I did.

"Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven".
Matthew 5:16

Kindness:  the quality of being friendly, generous and considerate.

In this world that we live in, we are in a constant rush. So many times, we feel the need just to go through the motions without noticing anyone else around. I taught a lesson recently on the kindness of God and the thought kept creeping back into my devotions. So, as I reflected on my daily life I began to think, am I a kind person? If so, why do I keep seeing this theme run throughout my life. I began to dig a little deeper when the topic came up again while I was preparing for a Sunday school lesson. I found in Romans 2:4 that the kindness of God leads to repentance. I mean, whew, kindness is serious stuff!! The word says that the whole world is under the wrath of God because of sin, but because of the kindness of God he gives us eternal life. Instead of giving us what we deserve, God is kind and good to us! That, my friend, should be the one reason you are kind to someone today!

What The word says on being kind:
Ephesians 4:32- Be kind to one another
Zechariah 7:9-10- Show kindness and mercy to one another
Galatians 5:22- Kindness is one of the fruits of the spirit!

BE KIND! Give an encouraging word to someone, send the text, smile in the checkout line, hold the door open, tell people you appreciate them, give compliments, be that happy person, make eye contact, make that phone call, smile, lift one another up! So as I leave you today, I will ask you what I asked my Sunday school class a few weeks ago:
“What would you tell your younger self about the kindness of God?"

Randy Langford- doesn’t depend on who I am or what I’ve done. He was kind to me and had my best interest in mind.
Kerry Black- Read all the Psalms and Proverbs- these are the instructions to live a Christian life. WWJD
Linda Langford- Slow down and enjoy the small stuff.
Amanda Hodges- If we question God when something bad happens just know that he has our best interest and it’s all in God’s timing.
Tammy Brady- You don’t have to fit into the mold- God made you unique.
Tim Brown- God’s Kindness is in the simplicity of Christian life. Each person has a purpose that God has given.
Jody Baird- I would tell my younger self that God has a reason why things happen or didn’t happen. They will happen in His timing.
Michelle Kenyon- When you go through hard times as a child (or an adult), know that God is always there- he sends teachers, friends or people to encourage you.
Sandra Bowers- Remember to stay in His will. He has your best interest in heart- Keep that in mind.
Misty Brown- Because of God’s kindness I can live forever with Him. He is giving me mercy and grace so when I mess up, he forgives!

Why do we worry?
I have a house to live in, a family that loves me, and a job that I enjoy! But worrying takes up most of my time. I worry about money, future plans, and more.

“The lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.”
I can read this all day but I don’t think I’ve ever meant it. That probably happens a lot with the Bible. We read it but do we apply it?

Psalm 23 goes on to say “he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul”. 
When we are shaken by worries of this life, this verse reassures us we can find steadiness in Jesus! Only He restores us and puts all our worries at ease if only we give them over to Him.
How do we do that? Saying 'just give it to Him' is easy. Maybe we read the verse till we believe it! We pray scripture. We fast. We stop trying to come up with our own ways to solve the problem. We let go of something that we are unwilling to surrender. A situation can vary between days or each other, but drawing as close to Jesus as much as we can is the move.

God has always provided for me! His way has always proven to be the best way.
Matthew 6:26 says “Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?” 

God has made us in His image and highly values us!
So why do we doubt He will take care of us?

In 2008 The Celtics beat the Lakers in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. By this time in the season both teams have played a lot of games! During the interview with Kevin Garnett, power forward for the Celtics, screamed out " Anything is possible!" Most likely from the emotions of excitement and relief of beating The Lakers and Kobe Bryant. With effort, practice, and support from other teammates, it was possible to come out on top.

5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.” 
Luke 24
 
The Marys showed up to visit Jesus and found an empty tomb! Praise God!
From this historical and spiritual miracle of defeating death by the Spirit of God, Jesus gives us hope and life! The tomb is empty!

A pastor, Joby Martin, pinned this phrase in his book If The Tomb is Empty with the mindset and heart posture that when we find ourselves hard times, the trials and tribulations, that we can have hope and anything is possible! Yes, it is possible to win the biggest game of the year, catch the state record bass, or even pay off your mortgage, etc.

But God has more in store for us! He wants to see us conquer sin, addictions, spiritual battles, and death itself one day, and it is possible! From being called to preach, teach, missions, serve, the prodigal child - it is all possible with Jesus!

So no matter what you are going through and praying for day in and day out just remember with faith, If the tomb is empty, anything is possible!  

February is known as the love month. Everywhere you look you see hearts, cupids, flowers, and candy. Think of how often we use the word "love".

For example: I love my spouse. I love my kids. I love my dog. I love chocolate. etc.

These are all great things and worthy of our affection, but there is no greater love to celebrate than the Love of God! The Love of God is like no other. It is unconditional and infinite. Steadfast and enduring. It can't not be earned. It is pure, faithful, and perfect. His love will pick us up when we fall and chase us down when we run...again and again.
Like the words of this song

Here you are again
Forgiving, redeeming my heart again
Standing me up on my feet again
You show me Your mercy will never run out
Will never run out
I can breathe again
Knowing I'm loved, I feel free again
No matter how long I've been wondering
When I think that I've gone too far
Here you are again

( Again by Jeremy Camp) 

Take time, not only the month of February but every day, to celebrate God's love for us. Don't just keep it for yourself but share it with everyone you know!

Reference Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 13, 1 John 4:7-16

It’s so important to be forgiving. Jesus was so why should we not be? He has forgiven us in so many different ways and there are more times we ask for forgiveness from him than he ask us. So why shouldn’t we forgive someone for something they said that we didn't like or what someone’s actions were? This is something I struggle with because I want to base one thing someone did and judge them by that. That is not what Jesus would do. Before He even took the cross he knew that we were going to struggle with sin, but he still did it (Romans 5:8). I’m so thankful for that today!

Colossians 3:17 is explaining to us that what ever we do each and every day, the words that you speak and the actions you take, do it to represent Jesus. As Christians, we have a big responsibility of being true with everything we do. Jesus loves us so much. We need to stay strong and close to Him because He is the light of the world, and He has overcome the world.

Represent Him by forgiving like Him. 

"Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved!" - Romans 10:13

God blessed us with another safe and successful mission trip! How do you judge a safe
and successful trip? Glad you asked!

Our trip to Cuba was safe for a the main reason of airline travel. The flights were smooth and on time, there and back. Also a safe trip includes, but not limited to, no one was hurt or sick during our time there, and we all came back together in one piece! No room to complain from the results of any of this!

Our goal going to Cuba is much similar to the goal going anywhere, to share the love of Jesus! After all, it is a great commission. Cuba is different in the way we do that. A big part of our trip is getting supplies to the people we work with. Hygiene, food, medicines like OTC products & vitamins, batteries, solar power lanterns, and of course chocolate are a lot of the things we take. They are not blessed with the resources nor the availability and opportunity to have these things. With a team of 5, we are able to take 9 bags weighing 50lbs each to deliver, plus a piano! This amount of stuff is a big help, but will run dry. So how can you pray now? Pray that God would multiply what was given this time, he has done it before! (see Matthew 14 for reference) Also, pray for an opportunity to join the trip so we can double the amount of bags with supplies to take! And when you get to Cuba, you realize you receive the blessing!

Sharing the Gospel when the Pastor asked and scheduled us to was a huge success! A success would be that a single person was saved, putting their faith in Jesus. A HUGE SUCCESS is that 17 souls took a step in faith to follow Jesus and were saved! From working with children & church- to sitting in homes and just sharing the Gospel opened the door for the Holy Spirit to move! We also helped baptized 6 who were saved last year. Praise the Lord!

Our friends in Cuba pour their hearts out in everything they do, especially worship. Seeing the best image of not letting any circumstance slow down or take away their worship and commitment to God can be found. From 8pm worship with no electricity, hungry & thirsty, not much money, walking a distance to praise & worship - they know the God who loves them. They know God's love and blessing is that He sent Jesus for our salvation. Everything else is just extra, if it comes, that is not needed. They worship God for being God. They have been saved by grace, through faith and that is all that matters for them to worship! Jesus is all they need.

Continue to pray for our friends in Cuba & that God may send you. Pray for the new souls as they walk in their new faith. Pray that we may worship God for salvation; even if we have  nothing one day, Jesus is everything. That is what makes us rich.  

Sometimes things happen in life that you can’t understand. It’s easy to question God at times like this. It can be a trial, a hard time, a tough situation, or even a blessing you know that you don’t deserve. I grew up with a mother that loved me more than anything and a father that wasn’t around; but God was there. I was lucky enough to have my true dad come into my life at 8 years old and I am so thankful for that blessing. Not long after this occurred, my mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor that we were sure was going to take her life. It was inoperable, and radiation was the only treatment option. At 10 years old, and not understanding what was going on, life got really tough. But God was there. A few years later I went through a very difficult time in my life and had a significant struggle with my mental health. Depression had gotten the best of me and I started to question not only myself, but my salvation. I couldn’t understand why God would ever save me. I knew how little I deserved it. I was saved at 8 years old at Halltown Church during Revival. I will never forget the feeling of conviction, or the feeling of relief when I got off my knees. I knew that Christ had come into my life but somewhere along the line, I started to lose the battle mentally. I doubted, was fearful of death, and some days didn’t even want to live any more because of the pain and the hurt that I felt in my chest. But God brought me through and he told me that he had bigger plans for my life. I spent a lot of days and nights feeling lost and alone, but God was there.

I got married to my beautiful wife in August of 2018. We had dreams of a family and there was nothing we wanted more than to have kids and raise them up to love the Lord. However, things didn’t go as we had planned. We were told in November of 2021 that without IVF, we would most likely never be able to have children. My heart hurt worse than it ever had before. Not for me, but for my wife. The only thing she ever wanted was to be a mother and the feeling of not being able to fill that void was difficult to withstand. We went on to do IVF and were blessed with our first baby in May of 2023. We spent a lot of time asking why during the days leading up to, and even during, that process. But the amount of people that we have been able to share our testimony with and help along the way that are going through the same issues has been a blessing. Sometimes it is easy to think God isn’t answering you when, in reality, he is just giving you something better. In February of 2024, we found out that we were expecting our second child. What we had been told was impossible was always possible because God is the giver of life. What the doctors said was a 2% chance, turned into 100%. We serve a God who doesn’t work in percentages. He works in absolutes and he is in absolute and total control. We felt like we had no hope, but God was there.

My life has been filled with trials, hard times, and tough situations, but it’s those blessings that I know I don’t deserve that stick out in my mind. The blessing of beating the odds, making it through the fire, becoming a father, and seeing my mother be here to hold my children; these are the things that stand out to me. His blessings never end. I am thankful today that through all of the things that I have experienced since I accepted Christ, I get the opportunity to take the next step in my walk with the Lord as I prepare to become a deacon at Halltown; the church that I grew up in and the church that I love. I know that I will never be worthy of the opportunity but I am thankful that God has blessed me with the chance to serve him in a capacity that I hope will help grow his church universally. I am thankful every day that he didn’t ask us to deserve his love, he just asks us to serve in love. I hope that my story can encourage someone who got off to a rough start, got knocked down, or even wants to quit. Because no matter what is going on in this life, it is all about the life to come. Eternal life through Christ is all that matters, because God will be there.


Romans 12:12

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

I took a wrong turn. Actually, I’ve taken many wrong turns. However, with modern technology, we are often guided back in the right direction. As a new believer and as a child, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior but lacked direction. I wish I had started with Proverbs for guidance and the Psalms for instruction and hope.

While serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, we came under enemy fire many times. One day, after such an attack, we drove through a large valley. All we could see were graves of men who had died in combat, most of them from the Russian invasion many years prior. We were astonished by the number of dead, but it reminded me of scripture: the valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37. It gave me strength, knowing that my God is in control. We quickly moved through the valley to a safer location, and I couldn’t help but think of Psalm 23:4:

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.”

God is with us in all that we do. He is our guide and takes us by our right hand if we let Him. Give God a chance to be first in your life, for everything we do should be to glorify our mighty Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ref: Ezekiel 37, Psalms 23, Psalms 91

Former President Jimmy Carter (39th) recently passed away on December 29, 2024. During his funeral, several people shared not only his accomplishments but also the impact he had on others. He served in many different ways, from being President to serving in the Navy and contributing to his community. He left behind a large family, including many great-grandchildren. Several speakers at the funeral mentioned, as I’m sure many others would agree, that he served in extraordinary ways throughout his long life. Like many presidents, Jimmy Carter has a biography written about him, and it makes me think, “What would someone write about me?”

As I reflect on this current event in our country, it reminds me of a few important truths. The fact is that we all die one day. Maybe you will live to be 100 years old or much younger. We are not eternal—at least not yet. There is more to life than what we can consume. The question is, what can we give or pour out to others? In the time we have here, how are we serving the Lord? Will we leave behind people who know Him? How will people speak about us at our eulogies? Did you know God, and did He know you?

Acts 11:24 speaks of Barnabas in a way that  inspires me: “For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord.”

God deserves all the glory for salvation because He is the one who loved us so much that He gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to take our place on the cross as punishment for our sins. What an honor and privilege it is to play even a small role in leading others to His amazing, saving grace! Barnabas had a part in that work, and it made a lasting impact.

What kind of impact are you making? What will people remember or write about you one day? As men and women, we have people looking up to us. Are we leading them in the way of the Lord, or are we leading them in the way of ourselves? As we strive to be holy this year—which we are called to do—let us do so in a way that is impactful for the kingdom of heaven. Let us remember that even one person coming to salvation is celebrated in heaven!

In the summer of 2013, I was fired up for the upcoming 2013-2014 Tennessee Volunteers football season. Two local Sumner County standouts, Jalen Hurd and Josh Malone, had signed with the Vols, and after years of disappointing seasons, the team had a recruiting class that seemed poised for success. I can remember spending hours watching post-practice press conferences, studying the depth chart, and even pulling the trigger on season tickets. I was all in on this team.

My son and I attended every home game that season. In the end, the team finished 6-6. I had been obsessed with the team and the season, only for it to end in mediocrity. At the close of the season, I reflected on how much time and energy I had spent investing in something that ultimately meant nothing. I couldn’t help but wonder how different life might have looked if I had used that same passion to study God’s Word or invest in things with eternal significance rather than worldly pursuits. I imagined how much farther along I would have been in my spiritual walk if I had applied the same discipline I had devoted to the football team.

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” As we set our goals for the New Year, I encourage you to focus on things with eternal value.

I still enjoy watching the Vols play, but I now save my deep research for the people involved with the team. Most importantly, I choose disciplines that bring me closer to my Creator.

I remember, as a child, looking up to many men and wanting to be like them. The two most influential people in my life were my father and grandfather, for many reasons. My grandfather was a deacon at church and led singing, but that isn’t necessarily what I wanted to mimic. Although that was his way of serving, what always stood out to me was how he was always doing something for someone. He would get a call and go. When my sister needed a car, he hit the ground running to find one. I believe he genuinely loved helping others. What made him a rich man was what he did for others.

My father is the exact same way when it comes to serving, but something stuck out to me when he preached (and when others preached too). Looking back now, I realize the calling to preach has been on my life for a long time. To be half the man my grandfather was and my father is would be a tremendous achievement.

When it comes to role models or mentors in our lives, being picky is neither a bad nor a selfish thing. If we want to learn and grow into better versions of ourselves, it helps to have a good teacher. Be careful when examining yourself if you fall short, haven’t learned a new skill, or haven’t reached your latest milestone. You are learning!

Men and women in our lives can help disciple us in our faith, just like the people who coach us in sports, show us how to cook, teach us how to change a spark plug, or help us raise children. Others can help us pray more, serve more, teach better, etc. It’s helpful to have an example to follow—someone who serves Jesus well. But what does it look like to become holy?

In 1 Peter 1, we are reminded of the calling on our lives to be holy because God is holy. We are instructed to leave behind our former lusts and to be holy in all our behavior (v. 15–16). For me, this calling and challenge means we must look to Jesus when examining ourselves. One reason for this is that the former lusts we each have may differ, as does our will and strength to walk away from them. Another reason is that we all fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). If we compare ourselves to others in terms of holiness, we may find someone whose holiness we exceed—but that’s not the point.

This scripture in 1 Peter is so powerful because it takes away the comparison between each other and points us to God: “Be holy, for I am holy” (Leviticus 11:44–45; 19:2; 1 Peter 1:16).
This removes the excuses like, “I’m only human, and nobody is perfect,” or, “We all have our demons or struggles.” While those statements may be true, why do we compare ourselves to others instead of to the perfect example—God? “Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48).

This verse sets a standard that is unachievable on our own, but it’s something we should continuously strive for. We will be perfected in heaven one day, but until then, we should put in the effort to live a holy life. We cannot do this without the Spirit of God—the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the grave (Romans 8:11).

Surrender to Jesus today by putting your faith in Him and repenting to live a life that replicates His!

When I was in middle school I was persuaded to try out for the football team. There was going to be a meeting during the regular time at school in which we would have recess or if it was raining, just walking around the gym court. As the meeting was announced I continued my walk with no intention of playing football. That was until Coach Lane made his way across the gym floor and walked me onto the stage to where the meeting was, convincing me to give it a chance.

I enjoyed playing and being a part of the team. I grew a lot and learned many lessons for decision making, teamwork, and discipline. At West Middle School one of the things that seems to be imprinted into my mind is a sign we would see leaving the locker room. We would slap it exiting the locker room getting onto the bus for a game or going out to practice. It read "I will give my all for Portland today!" If you are a Tennessee Vols fan this might sound similar to something they have. As we would slap the sign, we would commit to giving our very best during the game or practice.

Paul encourages us in Colossians 3:23-24 to do the same " Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve." 

There is an eternal perspective & comparison from playing football at West to serving Jesus. As Coach Lane walked across the gym floor to take me into the meeting, Jesus made a much more impactful walk for all of us. That walk was with a cross on His back after being beaten to die for the sin of the world, instead of us. It was because of His love He made that walk.

Let His walk for us persuade you to join His team and give your all for His glory and purpose! We are saved because of His death and resurrection; that should be our motivation and encouragement to live for and lead others to Him. No matter what you do, do it for Jesus, not a paycheck. Seek not to be glorified but that Jesus is. Serve others but not to expect anything in return.

Pray Now that Jesus would search your heart of your motivation and intentions when it comes to serving Him. 

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