The Bethany Blog
Thankful Hearts
Nov 29, 2009
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what God has done for us, and give thanks back to Him for all His provisions. This week's service was geared towards our thankful hearts. Everyone was given a chance to stand up and say what they were thankful for this year. Of course, I was too chicken to stand up in front of everyone. But there were some very wonderful words spoken by some very special people in the congregation today. Its such a blessing to be a part of a church family that loves God as you all do! This year I was blessed by being welcomed into the Bethany family. This church, you wonderful people, have been such an encouragement in my life. God led me to you, and you showed His love through your welcoming arms. I thank each and every one of you for being the friend I needed this year. The words of encouragement, the inclusion in the Sunday night Bible study, boot camp, the women's ministry, and the young adults group...I haven't had a church feel like a family like this since I was in high school! I am so thankful! This family of believers is exactly what I needed in my life! Without all of you, and without my Rock, my Savior Jesus Christ...I would be lost right now! So THANK YOU! Thank you for loving me and giving me this precious family that I needed in my life!
God’s grace is sufficient
Nov 22, 2009
A few verses that spoke to me today during the sermon...
1 John 5:18-20
[18]We know that no one who is born of God sins; but He who was born of God keeps him and the evil one does not touch him.
[19]We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.
[20]And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding, in order that we might know Him who is true, and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.
Satan cannot touch you if you are born again to God. So it is important to know where you stand with God! For when it comes time to be tested, He can hand you over to Satan! I'm just so thankful to have salvation and a personal relationship with God. And that even though I've made mistakes and have betrayed Him over and over again in sin, He loves me and continues to draw me closer to Him. We are responsible for how we live our lives, for our actions. God will allow us to faulter and make bad choices, but He can use even our mistakes for good.
Romans 8:28
[28]And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Even when we go off course, if we confess it, He will redeem it and use it for good. So God can use my (your) life and the mistakes made and use them for His plan! He can use the pain to increase our faith!
God chose us and loves us...let's live for righteousness, not sin!
break the vial
Nov 15, 2009
Mark 14:1-11
How do you love God?
Is your love for God extravagant? Does it cost you anything?
This passage of scripture shows us that extravagant love is good (vs.6). The woman broke her very expensive vial of perfume for Jesus. Some thought that she was wasting it and should've sold it and gave the money to the poor. But Jesus told them to stop, that she had done a good deed. Her love was costly, it wasn't rational or calculated. She knew that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to be with Jesus and she took advantage of it, and loved Him extravagantly. Isn't that true for all of us? We won't always have the opportunity to worship Jesus or show Him our love (vs.7). We don't know the days or hours we have in this world. We always just assume there's a tomorrow. But what if there isn't? Are we loving God with all we have? We need to have extravagant love and worship...break the vial, don't just give a few drops!
What does your worship of God cost you?
What will you be remembered for?
Women’s Lunch
Nov 15, 2009
Today the Bethany ladies got together for lunch at Vince's. About once a month, the women at our church get together to spend time getting to know one another better and to have fun! This time we spent a couple hours enjoying each other's company over some yummy Vince's Spaghetti. I was able to meet some new ladies, visit with some old friends, and have a wonderful afternoon. I always enjoy it when the girls get together! For those of you who weren't able to join us this time, be sure to join us for the next event. It really is a nice time when we can all get together and fellowship with one another!
are you ready?
Nov 09, 2009
Isn't it hard thinking about the end times? It seems unreal that these prophesies are going to happen, but we know they are! Have you prepared yourself for the battle ahead?
ARE YOU READY?
Revelation 3:11-12
[11]I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, in order that no one take your crown. [12]He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write upon him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name.
We need to be on guard, alert, and ready for the battle ahead. I would like to say I'm ready, but if I'm going to be honest I'd have to say that I don't think I am. I don't know if you are anything like me, but I can procrastinate...even with my walk with the Lord. "Tomorrow" is a word that is used a lot. But what if today is our last day? Are our hearts ready for the coming of the Lord? Will we be ready for the Tribulation, to be tested and persecuted for what we believe? I know that I still need a ton of work done in my life. I don't spend enough time talking with Jesus, or studying His word, or defending my faith. I get caught up in the day-to-day life and don't make the necessary time for my Lord. How selfish of me! He has done everything for us...why is it so hard for us to give back? But if we start today, instead of putting it off till tomorrow, we will be that much more ready! If you need to take baby steps, do it! If you need to dive in and be hardcore, that's awesome...do it! There's no better time to start then RIGHT NOW! And why put it off, when Jesus is waiting...knocking at the door of our hearts.
Revelation 3:19-22
[19]Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; be zealous therefore, and repent. [20]Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me. [21]He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. [22]He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
We need to prepare ourselves for a spiritual battle! God has told us everything we need to know in advance [Mark 13:23] so we have no excuses! There will be false christs and false prophets, wars, earthquakes and famines, family fighting, religious persecution, the antichrist, and a tribulation like never before!
We need to be on guard, stand strong and not be misled, ready to preach the gospel and defend our faith, and persevere! The tools have been provided, let's gear up and get ready for battle!
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 (read the whole chapter if you have time)
[13]But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. [14]And it was for this He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. [15]So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us. [16]Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, [17]comfort and stregthen your hearts in every good work and word.
BE READY!!!!!
Baja 2009
Oct 19, 2009
Casita...Chicas
Casita...Chicos
We had great accomodations! I was surprised how nice it was! The casita was a bit disorganized with bunkbeds all scattered throughout, but we got it organized before we hit the hay, spiders killed, moths shooed, beds moved, airmattresses blown up, sleepings bags out, and our heads hit the pillow. Ahhhh, sleepy time!
Morning arrived and it was time to get moving. We quickly got up, got ready for the day ahead, had some yummy breakfast cooked by the Prostlers...
and then we were on our way to start working.
We had two jobs while there: [1] to lay a sidewalk so there was clear wheelchair access for Marco and [2] to paint a room in the guest house from green to white. The boys started measuring things out and framing, while Thiam and I headed up to the guest house to start the painting project. We cleared the room, cleaned the walls, mixed the primer, and were ready to start...when two of the boys walked in ready to help. Very nice! Josh and Mike stepped in and we got things done. However, Mister Joshua suggested not priming and I don't know if I can let him live it down that it was a mistake! LOL :) Three coats later and it still wasn't the best job we could've done. But it was done...so that was good!
The boys worked hard on the sidewalk and did a great job. They slaved away lifting heavy bags of concrete, they lugged wood for framing, they dug out some old concrete and the area to be framed, heavy barrels with the mixed concrete to the worksite, and more. They worked their booties off!
They actually let Thiam and I help out too...and I loved it! We helped move the concrete around when they poured it in the framing, and then we got to smooth it out for the finish.
The finished product...
When all the work was done, we were able to have an ice cream social for the kids there. It was sad though, because quite a few of the kids had the Swine Flu and were confined to their dorms. So a handful of kids came and we enjoyed serving them, and watching them enjoy this special treat.
They had a ton of fun having the whipped cream sprayed in their mouth...that made them giggle and laugh so hard, it was great!
We also played some volleyball with them...
Here is an aerial view of the orphanage...
View of our lil casitas that we stayed in...
Random photos of our team:
Photos around the orphanage:
I had a great time on this trip! It had been years since I've been on a mission trip down to Mexico. I went on a few while I was in High School, but nothing after that. So this was nice. I have always wanted to go on one where we use our hands, building something. I was happy the boys let us ladies do some of the concrete work. I also enjoyed the little time we had with the kids, watching those sweet smiles on their faces while eating ice cream! Even though there was a language barrier, you could see the joy they felt! I feel so blessed to have been able to go on this trip. Great teamwork, hard work and dedication, compassion for those in need, and able to serve our awesome God! A job well done in deed.
The team, atop our finished sidewalk
NINJA!!! lol :)
are you a vine-grower?
Oct 11, 2009
Pastor Josh Matlock's sermon this week was titled
Stewards of the Kingdom
Mark 12:1-12
This passage of scripture discusses the Parable of the Vine-growers. The Vineyard represents the Kingdom of God, and those who have put themselves under God's rule are the Vine-growers.
God Entrusted His Kingdom to Israel
* What is their future?
Romans 11:25-29[25] For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery, lest you be wise in your own estimation, that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles has come in; [26] and thus all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, "The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob. [27] and this is My covenant with them, when I take away their sins." [28] From the standpoint of the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of God's choice they are beloved for the sake of the fathers; [29] for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
Matthew 21:43 Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you, and be given to a nation producing the fruit of it.
The Vine-growers are those that are under God's rule and:
- Follow Him
- Obey His commandments
- Are a priesthood, a blessing to all nations
The Kingdom is Now Entrusted to Us
* What kind of tenants are we being?
Honestly, statistics are showing that we [protestants] are doing a bad job. For the first time, Protestants will be the minority by the end of the year!!!
Americans...
50% Rarely or never attend worship services
59% Say all religions are equally valid
The number of Christians has declined 12% since 1990, and is not 76%
Nearly a quarter of Americans in their 20's profess no organized religion
Athiests and Agnostics are at less than 1% each
Young people raised in the church...
64% Believe Christ came to earth to teach bad people to live better
63% Do not believe Jesus is the Son of God
58% Believe all faiths teach equally valid truths
57% Do not believe Jesus rose from the dead
70% Believe there is no absolute moral truth
74% Say they do not have life figured out (There's Hope!!!)
Jesus is the Cornerstone of the Kingdom
* Are you a Christ-follower?
* Does your heart break for what His did?
If we hang with Jesus will we have His passion? And will our passion rub off on others?
What are you doing to make a difference in the lives of others? Your life is a witness to those around you...are you living righteously? Are you striving to live Christ-like? I know that I fail constantly, and don't always live like I should. Its hard sometimes. But I do realize that my life is an example to those around me, and if I make bad choices and unbelievers see that, how will that look? Will they see Jesus living through me, or will they see the world? We need to be reminded daily, when we wake up in the morning, to live each day to glorify God! Let His light shine through you!! Make wise choices, follow Him, obey His commandments, and be a blessing to those around you!
We will grow and see great things in America if we find that passion and share it with others!!!
This reminds me of a song I sang as a child (shortened version)...
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
Hide it under a bushal, NO! I'm gonna let it shine
Won't let satan blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
Psalms 103:19The Lord has established His throne in the heavens; and His sovereignty rules over all.
we don’t deserve it
Sep 14, 2009
Yesterday at church, Pastor Josh Matlock spoke on Mark 10:46-52. The passage explains how Bartimaeus, the blind man, was healed because of his faith. He didn't care about what the crowds of people thought...he was persistent and Jesus heard his plea for mercy and answered with healing.
What faith this man had...blind faith! He didn't have to see Jesus to believe, which is what many people struggle with. He called out to the "Son of David", the Messiah, with no concern for judgement from others around him, asking for something he knew he didn't deserve but had faith that Jesus would hear him. And Jesus did...using the crowd [to teach them], He sent them to bring Bartimaeus to Him. Although the crowd initially shunned B and tried to quiet him down as Jesus was on His journey towards Jerusalem, Jesus showed them the faith of a poor blind beggar, teaching them the need for:
1. Persistance: Bartimaeus persists in faith, in prayer. He continued to cry out for Jesus. Learn to rely on Jesus and not on your own accord. The more you go to Him, the more you will rely on Him.
2. Specifics: Jesus asked Bartimaeus to be specific. He told Jesus he wanted mercy, but Jesus wanted him to be specific about what he wanted. And B answered and said he wanted to see again...and he was healed! Even though Jesus already knows the desires of our hearts, He still wants us to ask, because we learn through asking. We learn by relying on Him, but also because once we hear our own prayers we can refine them. He's helping us to get a better understanding of what we really need, instead of what we think we need. Have you ever wanted something and then prayed and asked God for it, and as you're asking realize how silly it sounds? Geez, I do it all the time.
3. Following Jesus: No matter what the crowds were saying or doing, Bartimaeus believed and sought after the Messiah.
Do we really understand God's love for us like Bartimaeus did? Do we have his blind faith? Or are we more like the crowds of people that didn't understand those three concepts of how to receive God's love?
When you go to pray this week, take a moment before you start to really think about who you are praying to, and think about what it is you are asking for...and see if things change when you bow your head to pray to God. Are you seeking God and His Will for your life as you go to pray? Are you relying on Him by being persistent and specific with your prayers? And are you following Him as you walk through life this week, listening and waiting for Him to answer?
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found
T'was blind, but now I see
Just for fun...[this was shown at the beginning of the service]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BisEQzL6geY
Youth Camp-Out @ Camp Pendleton
Sep 07, 2009
This past Labor Day weekend was spent down south in Camp Pendleton at San Onofre Beach with the Bethany Baptist Youth Group.
The trip got off to a late start, but we made it down to the campgrounds with no holiday traffic so we were pleased. We arrived and set-up camp. Everyone showed great teamwork and helped get the tents up and luggage in. Then we headed up to the site where all our meals would be and devoured some scrumptious hot dogs! It was late, about 10:30pm...we were all tired and hungry, so the dogs went fast! I think a few boys ate between 3 and 4 of them! Them grow'n boys need lots of food I guess! heehee!! Tim and Charley enjoyed a few dogs themselves! That was about it for the first night. Since we had a late arrival, the kiddos had a little while left for free-time and then had to be in the tents by midnight...then off to sleepy land for us all!
Everyday started with breakfast at 8am and then morning "devo's" (group devotionals) shortly after. Charley led the group in a devo and then had them spend about 15 minutes on their own, alone with God where they could dig deeper into the Word and apply the lesson to their lives. They learned that 'Sin is Real', 'Love is Real', and 'Hope is Real'...We reap what we sow: the things we allow in our lives do affect what comes out of our lives! If we allow bad things/sinful things in, then bad things will grow and flourish in our lives and we will live in sin. But if we plant good things and use God's Word to feed us, then we will produce good fruit.
After devos, it was beach time. We all had so much fun playing in the water, boogie boarding, laying out, playing beach volleyball, shell hunting, lobster finding, eating, hanging out together, running away from bees, playing with Charley and Thiam's kiddos, and just being in fellowship with one another.
The High Schoolers and Leaders had a great time camping outdoors in tents and sleeping bags, with dirt, sand, burns, bugs, lobsters, and all! That's right, lobsters! There were a few practical jokes made, one in particular being a lobster in Anna's sleeping bag! It was gross, but she was a good sport! The lobster got passed around a few times and I think it ended up in one of the ice chests to scare those going in for a refreshing water bottle! hahaha, good times!! I'm just glad that no one ever put it in my sleeping bag...I think I would've cried! I don't like sea creatures all that much!! And then a discusting bug was found in the girl's tent, but one of the boys rescued us!
I found camping to be a great way to get to know the teens. Spending time outdoors with them goof'n around encourages not only them, but us as leaders to take time to raise up the youth right, as they will be the leaders in the future! They are such great kiddos, I'm so glad I was able to help out and be one of the leaders on this trip.
Volleyball Time!
Aug 30, 2009
It was HOT at 107 degrees, but we played through the heat with smiles on our faces and sweat dripping down our cheeks! After awhile the heat didn't feel so bad, we kinda got used to it. We had a great time! So next time, I want to see you all out there playing with us! Just bring lots of H2O and your team spirit!!!
Beach with the Ladies
Aug 29, 2009
Today the girls from my Young Adults group at church got together and spent the day at Huntington Beach. Not sure why none of the guys showed up, but we have fun without them anyway! It was a beautiful day outside with our feet in the sand and the wind in our hair!
There were tons of people out today...with the HOT weather lately, I'm sure we all need a day at the beach! And today, we were ALL there!
But despite the crowds, we were able to enjoy our time together on the beach, hanging out, reading magazines, chatting with each other, putting our feet in the water, snacking on stale cheetos (Ashley!)...it was great!!
Thiam - Holly - Ashley - Jody
Ashley was too cute...she was wrapped in the towel and squatted...she looked like a little person! I had to take a pic! Here's lil Ash
Here' Skater Ash
Well, next time we have a Young Adult event and you're between the ages of 23-35, you should join us! If you're interested in attending fun outtings, let me know! We have a few more coming up still this month!
6 girls…1 boy
Jul 02, 2009
If you are a young adult, between the ages of 23-35, we would love to have you join us for our fun outings. Just hit me up with a comment, or email me, or check out the church website, and I'll let you know when the next event is! Hope to see you there!!!
Wait Upon the Lord
Jun 28, 2009
When God is Silent
Mark 7:24-37
Josh hit three main points that God wants to teach us:
The need to be PERSISTENT
The need to be HUMBLE
The need to have FAITH
We know that God's love is unconditional and unfailing! I hope you know that! If God sent His own Son to die for us, not sparing Him, you must know that there's nothing He wouldn't do for you! So when we dig into this scripture, we see how even if He is silent and we don't see our prayers being answered...its only because He is drawing us closer to Him! God's silence isn't because He doesn't care, in fact its the total opposite. The more we ask and pray, the closer we're drawn to God. So then if/when we don't hear from Him just know that He's close...and He's drawing you closer! Be persistent! Humble yourselves before Him, He will meet you where ever you're at in life! And have faith that He only wants the best for you...and He will never leave you, nor forsake you! (Heb. 13:5) God wants to bless us and give us HIS desires for our lives, which doesn't necessarily mean what we want, but what we NEED!
strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
Isaiah 41:10
'Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you!
Our growth leads to maturity
and maturity to a deeper relationship with God!
ATTN Young Adults
Jun 26, 2009
Bethany Baptist Church is calling all Young Adults (ages 23-35) for a fun-filled MOVIE NIGHT! This Saturday night, June 27th at 6:30pm the Young Adults group is getting together to build relationships, fellowship with one another, and have some much needed fun together! We would love for anyone interested to join us and make some new connections with some really good people. Please contact me if you're interested and I'll give you the directions.
Our church is seeking to grow our Young Adults Group and would love to involve you! If you are at a place in your life where you don't feel connected and would like to find a place where you fit in, this is for you! We get together for fun nights out, whether it be bowling, lunches after church, movie nights, etc. and are encouraging others in the community to join us. There is also a weekly Bible Study happening on Sunday nights that is focused this month on the book of Proverbs. We would love for you to join. If you want to carpool and are located around Upland, let me know and I can come pick you up!
Boot Camp Kicks Booty!
Jun 25, 2009
Whoa! Tonight's Boot Camp with Holly kicked my booty!!!
Bethany Baptist Church offers a free weekly Boot Camp on Wednesday nights for ladies.
Holly's passion for being physically fit and helping others on their journey towards that is inspiring. She's admitted her love for food and eats whatever she wants, but makes sure to work out that much harder to stay fit. She looks GREAT too! Anyway, the Boot Camp offers a variety of exercises in a circuit training way. You start off warming up and then get down to business. I don't necessarily enjoy being pushed so hard, but in the end I feel great! You will too, if you come join us!
What also makes getting together on Wednesday nights for Boot Camp great, is the fellowship with such great women. If you know me at all, you'd know that I wouldn't be excited to exercise, haha!! Its hanging out with everyone that I love! So if you're like me, get off your booty and come on out...even if its just to socialize! You'll not only feel great after the workout, but you will leave feeling connected and your spirits will be lifted. These ladies are great! Please come join us next week, we'd love to see you there!
After boot camp tonight, some of us ladies went out for some yummy Quiznos and Cold Stone ice cream. Ok, some of you might think..."what's the point of boot camp if you're gonna go eat afterwards?"...well, hello!!!!! - that's why we exercise, so we can eat! hahaha!!! Anyway, that's what we did. And it was yummy!!! More girly time, which is always fun...and then a full belly after a long workout. Lovely!!! THEN...Holly, Thiam and I went to the movies and saw "The Proposal". It was very good, and one I'll probably buy! I LOVE MOVIES! Now its 1am and I'm tired, but am here blogging. I think I'll start working towards going to bed now.
But seriously, you ladies should think about joining us on Wednesday nights...I mean come on, where else can you get a booty kickin boot camp for FREE???? Do it already! See you there!!!
what’s on the inside?
Jun 21, 2009
and renew a right spirit within me
We sang that song today in church and it was perfect for the message that Pastor Josh Matlock gave.
Clean The Inside
Mark 7:1-23
So, here's the question...
What's on the inside? What's going on in our hearts?
So on a normal day we go about our business, whether it be going to our jobs, hanging out with friends, watching tv or movies, listening to music. I know that I'm guilty of not paying enough attention to the little things that I allow into my mind and body each day, but that's just it! We need to pay attention to what we put into our minds! What we put in our minds does affect us ...what our eyes see, and our ears hear.
"The Inside is What Counts"
(read vs. 20-23)
We need to work on the sin that is in our hearts.
- Our thoughts prompt our actions:
Evil thoughts in our hearts activate evil out of us.
- Take your thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:3-5):
We need to learn to control our evil thoughts.
Ask yourself...Is this obediant to Christ?
Your Thoughts Matter!!
Replace the bad and evil thoughts
with good and righteous thoughts!
Josh closed the sermon with some scripture verses to help in our times of struggle and need. He encouraged us to memorize them and think of them when evil is present in our lives, to take control of the sin and focus on being obedient to Christ. We were created in the image of God, so we should live each day striving to live as He lived, holy and righteous!! You too can use these verses to help you when you encounter evil and sin and need help (we all need help!):
Immoral Thoughts: Philippians 4:8
Angry Thoughts: Ecclesiastes 7:9
Unforgiving Thoughts: 1 John 4:20
Unloving Thoughts: 1 John 4:11
Covetous or Greedy Thoughts: 1 Timothy 6:7; Ecclesiastes 5:10
Lazy Thoughts: Proverbs 14:23
Thoughts of Gossip: Proverbs 20:19
Critical Thoughts: Matthew 7:2
(I referred to a couple of these already today and it totally changed my mindset and helped free me from the evil that was present!)
What is the desire of your heart?
Is the most important relationship you have with your Lord and Savior??
Its a choice to live holy...how do you choose to live each day?
Sin is not freedom...Its bondage!
See if there be some wicked way in me;
cleanse me from every sin,
and set me free!
Romans 6:11-23
[11] Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
[12] Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey its lusts,
[13] and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.
[14] For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law, but under grace.
[15] What then? shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? May it never be!
[16] Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness?
[17]But thanks be to God, that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were commiteed,
[18] and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.
[19] I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification.
[20] For when you were slaves to sin, you were free in regard to righteousness.
[21] Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things is death.
[22] But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to god, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.
[23] For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8
Jun 14, 2009
At church today, Pastor Josh Matlock gave a great sermon on the passage of Mark 6...when Jesus Walks on Water. Everything about the service today was touching. I truly felt God's presence there, and a tugging at my heart. During the message Josh mentioned another passage, Romans 8. I spent some time this evening reading through the chapter and prayed about how I can change some things in my life and live less of the flesh [the world] and instead live according to the Spirit of God. I encourage you, my friends, to take some time to read through this scripture as well! I hope you too will find this as a good start for the new week and motivation to get on the right path if you aren't already. I know I struggle all the time to make the right decisions, and often fail. But I've been so blessed by this day, with the great sermon, amazing Christian friends that I was able to see at church and have lunch with, and God's Word and Spirit that give me life! I hope that I can be a friend that you need this week and I pray that you will all feel His touch on your life! I love you all and look forward to hearing how God is working in your lives! Please, do share!!!
I will leave you with this verse...
Romans 8:38-39
[38] For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
[39] nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
BUNCO…let the good times roll!
Jun 13, 2009
The women of Bethany Baptist Church had a Bunco night tonight. Ok, so before tonight I didn't think I had played Bunco before. Well I had, but not since high school! So needless to say I needed a refresher! It sounded easy enough with the instructions, but I started off losing pretty bad. But after a few rounds, I got my groove with the dice and started to do pretty well! It was a great night...there was food, fellowship with wonderful ladies, lots of laughter, tons of BUNCO's yelled out, and great prizes! It was loads of fun! AND I actually did really well! I tied with a couple other women for the most buncos and so we had a roll-off...unfortunately I rolled a 5 and someone else rolled a 6, so I didn't win the prize. But, my sweet friend had won a prize [a ring] that wasn't her style and didn't think she'd wear, so she gave it to me. How sweet is that! Thanks ladies, for inviting me to game night! I look forward to many more evenings spent getting to know you better!
The Swine Flew
May 19, 2009
The message last Sunday was on the healing of the Gerasene demoniac in Mark 5:1-20. In this passage, Jesus sends the demons into a herd of swine who then run into the water and die... thus... the swine flew. (I was pretty proud of that title) The sermon focused on demonology and the power of Jesus over Satan. One of the things I found most interesting in the passage is the use of the word "implore" in the NASB. It means "to beg or plead." Three groups of people implore Jesus in this text when they come face to face with the power and authority of Jesus Christ. The first group is the demons. They implore Jesus not to torment them and send them into the abyss, but to send them into the swine. They know Jesus has authority to destroy them and will do so, but now is not the time. They want to keep on doing their thing - tormenting and living in rebellion to God. The second group is the people from the town. They implore Jesus to leave their country. They saw what He did to the swine and witnessed the healing of the demon-possessed man and they wanted nothing to do with Him. They saw the power of Jesus as a negative - He destroyed their property. They didn't want their lives to change. The last "group" is the man who had been healed. He implored Jesus to let him come with Him. He saw the power of Jesus as a positive and he wanted to be near Him. He wanted to be as close by His side as he could. Now the question: Which of these groups do you fall into?Parable of the Soils
Apr 20, 2009
Yesterday we focused on Mark 4:1-20 where Jesus gives the parable of the sower, the seed, and the soils. The main point of the passage, in my opinion, is that the word of God is intended to grow and bear great fruit. The seed (the word) has great power. The sower (Jesus) throws that seed out without discrimination. He doesn't limit His scattering to the good soil, but throws it everywhere. Sometimes I will not share the good news with someone because I have the arrogance to think I know what is in their soul. I think that they will never respond. Before God transforms us, aren't we all just dirt? So there are four different soils he talks about here. First, you have the hardened soil along the path. The word doesn't penetrate into his heart. He needs to humble himself before God. Second, you have the rocky soil where only shallow roots grow. This person is weak and falls at when the trials come in life. She needs to surrender completely and grow deeper in the knowledge of the Lord. Third, there is the thorny soil. The thorns choke out the plant and no fruit comes. He needs to renounce the deceitful things of the world and live for God. Finally, there is the good soil where the seed comes in and bears fruit exponentially. God wants to do great things in His church, but we must be humble, surrendered, growing deeper, and living for Him alone. When these conditions are met transformation will take place.The Pursuit
Mar 26, 2009
In February, we began going through the book of Mark verse by verse in our worship service. We decided to preach through Mark because the Christian life is essentially about following in the footsteps of the Master - Jesus Christ. This is our pursuit. And it is not just a pursuit- it is the pursuit. We can't just say that we pursue advancement in work, degrees in school, bigger and nicer stuff, and also Jesus. Yet that is how most people live... and they are frustrated. I think C.S. Lewis in his book Mere Christianity, said it well: "Christ says, 'Give me All. I don't want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want You. I have not come to torment your natural self, but to kill it. No half-measures are any good.'" You see, the only way to truly pursue Christ is to pursue Him only and give Him everything. Make the pursuit of Christ your life's ambition and you will find true happiness, peace, and meaning. Each week someone from our staff will add a post to this blog to engage our minds in this pursuit. I hope you will read and interact with us on this journey.Page 1 of 1 pages