Happy Mothers' Day, Mom! 2012

I have said all of this before, but it is worth repeating. I have always been close to my Mom. She has been a constant source of encouragement to me through the years, and I thank God for her influence.

She is a tiny lady with a big heart. She has taught me the value of hard work and determination. She is also a woman of unshakable faith. I have witnessed her cling tenaciously to her faith through many difficult trials.

I am blessed with a special mom. She has always been there for me. Mom, I thank God for you, and I thank you for all your love and support.

Sunday Recap 5-13-12

Morning: The sermon, "Seeing the Bigger Picture," focused on Ruth 4:13-22. This passage relates the birth of Ruth's son, Obed. Through this passage, we are reminded of the coming Messiah, and the hope of redemption.

Here are some principles we can draw from this passage:

There is a purpose in your pain. We must remember no suffering is meaningless.

God has not left you without a redeemer. Ruth had Boaz. Naomi had Obed. You have Jesus.

Recognize how God has blessed you. Ruth was "better than seven sons"!

Humility is a mark of greatness. Ruth is able to fade into the background.

Share you children. It was said, "Naomi has a son."

Consider adoption. Ruth adopted Naomi. Naomi took Obed as her own. Through Jesus, the Father has adopted us into his family.

You are part of a story much bigger than you. You are part of God's redemptive story.

What do we do with these principles?

1. Allow Naomi's and Ruth's stories to remind you of God's sovereignty and faithfulness.
2. Remember those struggling with infertility and grief.
3. Bless your children with a godly upbringing.
4. Train your child to bless the world.
5. Tell others about the Redeemer--make his name great among the nations.

Thursday Humor: "Where U Been Toilet Seat"

Here is a funny clip for your enjoyment. I hope it makes you laugh.

Spiritual Songs: "Prayer for a Friend"

We have all been in the place this song describes. We all have someone for whom we are praying. We can take heart knowing that God hears. I hope this song encourages you.

Sermon Recap 5-6-12

Morning: The sermon, "Operation: Snag-a-Man," focused on Ruth 3:1-18. In this passage, we faith often takes the initiative. Ruth 3 opens with Naomi awakened to the grace of God as displayed through Boaz in the life of Ruth. Her grief clouded mind is clearing up and she recognizes Ruth's worth and her own responsibilities to Ruth. Here are some principles that we can glean from this passage:

1. When you recognize God's invisible hand, don't be afraid to act. In other words, when you see God at work in your life, take the initiative.

2. Part of trusting God is submitting to those in authority over you. It doesn't mean you can't think for yourself, or that you are to allow someone to lead you to do evil.

3. The righteous are as bold as a lion. When pursuing the glory of God, be bold.

4. Value good character.

5. Waiting on the Lord doesn't mean we don't do anything. While we wait, we do what we know we should be doing.

What do we do with it?

• Realize, and trust, that God is at work in your life.
• Take a chance, and trust God with the results.
• Taking a risk for God is not the same thing as participating in risky behavior.
• Cultivate and maintain good character.

Evening: We had VBS clinic at 5:00. It focused on Day Three: Amazing! God's Power Over Sin! The Bible story, "God sent Jesus," draws on Luke 2:21-38 and 1 Cor. 15:3-4. The life application is: "I can believe that God sent Jesus, and I can accept God's gift of forgiveness." We had business meeting at 6:00.

Thursday Humor: "Stupid Questions"

I know it has been said there are no stupid questions, but I'm not sure that is actually true. Here is a funny clip about stupid questions. Maybe you can relate.  

Hymns: Great Is Thy Faithfulness

This hymn reminds of us of an ever important truth: God is faithful. His promises are true, and can be trusted. I hope this encourages you.