Early Success

Sermon of the Week

2 Chronicles 26:1-5 (NIV)

"Early Success"

2 Chronicles 26:1-5 (New International Version)

¹ Then all the people of Judah took Uzziah (U-SI-A), who was sixteen years old, and made him king in place of his father Amaziah. ² He was the one who rebuilt Elath (EE-LATH) and restored it to Judah after Amaziah rested with his fathers.  ³ Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother's name was Jecoliah (JEK-O-LI-A); she was from Jerusalem. ⁴ He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done. ⁵ He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.

Message Introduction

     From this passage, we can see that our young Christians . . . our youth . . . can do what is right in the eyes of the LORD . . . at an early age!  We can see that Uzziah reigned as king for fifty-two years, and he started with “Early Success”.  His success was not in becoming a king at an early age, but the success was in being prepared to be a king at such an early age!  There are a lot of young actors, singers, etc. who make it big at an early age, but they were not prepared, and therefore they did not have Early Success.  They had temporary success with an early failure!  Whatever you decided to be in life, start preparing yourself for success now!  Amen!

     Now, we always ask our youth what do they want to be when they grow up, but we hardly ever ask them what do they consider being successful?  Even for adults, the question should be answered, “What is the definition of being successful?”

1.      Setup for Early Success (vs. 1)

Then all the people of Judah took Uzziah, who was sixteen years old, and made him king in place of his father Amaziah. 

·         If all the people of Judah took Uzziah to be their king, I’m sure he had a few mentors who were Godly people, giving Godly advice! 

·         Notice, Uzziah did not have an attitude of “I already know that” or “I am in charge, so everyone has to listen to me!”

·         When you have the right GOD in your life, HE will put the right people in your life, and you will be setup for Early Success

2.      Follow Success Early (vs. 4)

⁴ He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done.

·          Uzziah did what was right, just as his father had done!  Uzziah's father lead by example, and the son was learned from his father's success!
·         Parents must lead by example to ensure the child knows what is right.  When a child sees their parent(s) doing right, they see that it actually works.  When a child see a spiritual breakthrough because they saw their parents praying continuously . . . they are easily convinced that prayer works!

·         Unfortunately, not all parents are living a Godly life.  It may seem that the child has no good examples to follow!  That’s when the child must look to JESUS!  HE is the perfect role model!

3.      Learn Success Early (vs. 5a)

 ^5a He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God.

·         Uzziah sought after GOD, and GOD put Zechariah in his life to keep him grounded and humble!  Zechariah instructed Uzziah to have reverence for GOD!

·         Imagine! A sixteen year old boy with all that power!  It would be easy for him to think highly of himself and all the things he was doing! Remember, He was the one who rebuilt Elath and restored it to Judah after Amaziah rested with his fathers.  But GOD placed Zechariah in his life to keep him grounded!

·         Once again, we all may not have a Zechariah in our lives to keep us grounded, but if we are Christians, we have the Holy Spirit in our lives to keep us grounded and GOD will place those in our lives to help!

4.      Seek for Early Success (vs. 5b)

^5b As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.

·         Where will you find the root of success!  You will find true success . . . the kind of success that will last forever . . . has to start with GOD!  As long as we seek GOD in everything we do, HE will give us success.  Yes!  GOD does want us to work and do what is right.  Like anything else in life, you have to put in something to get something out!  Put all your faith in GOD, and HE will ensure you are everything HE intended you to be!

Message Conclusion

Of course you should strive to be educated, strong, and knowledgeable!  However,

·         Your education should be rooted in the foundation of GOD

·         Your strength should come from CHRIST JESUS

·         Your knowledge should come from the HOLY SPIRIT

You do not need a bunch of worldly examples of success.  Don’t look at the athletes, rappers, or movie stars!  Look at the Godly examples of success! So, as of this day, you now know of at least two Godly examples of success!  Uzziah was a young king who reigned for 52 years, and JESUS was a young king of kings and Savior who reigns FOREVER!

     Most of us know what Philippians 4:13 (NIV) says, I can do everything through him who gives me strength, but let’s go back a few verses before that to see why Paul was able to make such a confident statement!  Philippians 4:10-13 reads, ¹⁰I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹²I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (NIV)

The NKJV translation reads, I can do all things through CHRIST who strengthens me. 

·          Write this down and remember it!  Success is not the key to pleasing GOD.  Pleasing GOD is the key to success.

Prayer

LORD, we thank YOU that YOUR time is always the right time.  It is never too early for us to successfully serve YOU!  Thank YOU for calling upon the young and the old, the rich and the poor!  Thank YOU for calling us into salvation and righteousness for YOUR name sake.  Let us be strong in what YOU have for us to do, knowing that if YOU have called us to do something . . . YOU have also qualified us to do it!  Bless YOUR name from the valleys low and from the mountains peak!  For YOU are worthy of all the honor, glory and praise.  In the matchless name of YOUR son we pray.  Amen!

Invitation

Please, don't wait until you think the time is right!  When GOD calls, you must answer!  It is GOD's Will that none should perish, and that includes you and me!  No matter what we have done, GOD is not through with us.  No matter how many mistakes we have made in the past, GOD is ready for us to come to HIM.  It doesn't matter what your life was . . . let GOD make it what it is suppose to be!  Call on the name of JESUS, and pray, "LORD, I am a sinner and I need YOU to save me!  I ask that YOU please hear my cry of repentance!  I am sorry for all the sins and I ask YOU to save me!  Please forgive me!  I confess with my mouth that YOU are the son of GOD who died for my sins and was raised from the grave with all power in YOUR hand.  JESUS, thank YOU for defeating death so that I may now live in victory!  It is this day I accept YOU as my Savior and LORD! Amen!

If you have accepted JESUS as your Savior (HE died for your freedom) & LORD (submit yourself to HIM), then you are saved.  All it takes is for you to confess with your mouth and believe in your heart (read Romans 10:9-10).  But please find a place to worship GOD in spirit and in truth!  Demonstrate your love to GOD, by being baptised!  Understand, salvation is when you accept HIM, baptism is the expression of gratitude for what HE has done!  You do not need to be baptised to be saved, but it is a great way of showing HIM that you are thankful for what HE has done!  In you have any questions, please feel free to email me at nhishand@comcast.net

Hollowend - Ephesians 5:6-17

^{Sermon of the Week}

^{Ephesians 5:6-17}

^"Hollowend"

⁶ Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. ⁷ Therefore do not be partners with them. ⁸ for you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light ⁹ (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) ¹⁰ and find out what pleases the Lord. ¹¹ Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. ¹² For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. ¹³ But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, ¹⁴ for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” ¹⁵ Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. ¹⁷ Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

MESSAGE INTRODUCTION

The definition of hollow is a cavity, natural or artificial; an unfilled space within anything; a hole, a cavern; or an excavation.  In other words, hollow is an empty shell. Something that looks complete on the outside, but completely empty on the inside . . . naturally or artificially!  So we can have a hollow tree, we can have a hollow shell, we can have a hollow person!  Some of the same people, who are in an uproar every year over Halloween, are living hollow lives as hollow people!  Being completely empty! Now, I am not condoning the whole concept of Halloween, but I do understand that it is only a man-made holiday that takes place every year on 31 October.  So if I see a little child eating candy on that day . . . I don’t slap it out of their hand and call them little devil worshipers!  Because on that same day there is a man-made holiday that is called All Hallow’s Eve.  This is considered a Christian festival that leads into the All Saints Day which is 1 November of every year.  See it is important that we be educated, so that we can educate our next generation.  We teach them to hate 31 Oct instead of the events!  Just as we teach them to hate the person instead of the sin!

Now I don’t want us to be naive about the man-made holiday called Halloween . . . because it can lead people to a hollowend!  Samhain (pronounced sha-ween), the time many believe is the night when the veil between this world and the next is the thinnest.  It is a time to honor those who’ve died and ancestral spirits.  This is the small window when the living and the spirits of the dead and celebrate together.  This is considered their sabbat, and the colors associated with this event are black and orange!  Symbols of the sabbat include the cauldron, mask, bonfire, and jack-o-lantern.  See when we allow ourselves as Christians to partake in these type of events for these reasons . . . we are celebrating in a hollowend!

So we have the All Saints day that was started by the Roman Catholic Church, which honored every Christian saint, especially those who did not have a special day devoted to them already.  The celebration of the Druids of the Celtic Western Europe called Samhain (sha-ween), which marked the end of the lighter half of the year and began the darker half of the year.  In part, they would also honor the dead and ancestors.  And just like many things . . . once man start messing with it . . . we now have Halloween!  Two religious celebrations that are now considered a holiday.  Like I always say, it is more important for you to know why you do things, than actually doing them!  Many times, by knowing why can help you stop doing something or maybe even keep you from starting!  Don’t let anything lead you to a hollowend simply because it has been called a holiday!

HOLLOW WORDS

Verse 6 says, ⁶ Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.

Hollow words can lead us to a hollowend! Not knowing what we believe will leave us as hollow Christians.  Not knowing and accepting JESUS will leave us as hollow people.  Without JESUS, you cannot be filled with the Holy Spirit! Prayerfully we all know that the Holy Spirit lives!  We do not worship the spirits of the dead!  This is why we do not celebrate the dying CHRIST, but we celebrate the living CHRIST.  But hollow people have itching ears to hear hollow words.  Like it says in 2 Timothy 4:4, they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.  Don’t let hollow words lead you to a hollowend!  Hear the true, unadulterated word of GOD.  Unadulterated means pure or undiluted with extraneous matter.  GOD’s Word is full of life, even when it speaks about death! 

HOLLOW DARKNESS

Verses 8-9 reads, ⁸ For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light ⁹ (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)

I don’t find it a coincidence that all the trick or treating is done in darkness!  I’m not talking about the doorbell ring and the baskets of candy!  I am talking about the tricks of satan!  When he gets you all alone at night . . . in that dark place where you start to think how awful thing are! Why is this happening to me . . . again!   There is no way it can get better for me! I am worth more to my family dead! Then he begins to dangle the treats in front of you!  Things like, you should start a gangster rap group to get out of the hood!  But many times the dream of becoming a famous rapper keeps you in the reality of never leaving the hood  . . . even when you become a superstar!  Satan wants you to think that if you make one dope run, you will be set for life! Then that one dope run gets you 25 to life! He will have you try to convince that working the street corner will help pay your way through college!  But you find yourself on the corner more than you find yourself in the classroom! Satan will convince you that he is only hitting you because he loves you too much! And anyone who loves you too much to beat you will literally love you to death . . . by their own hands!  We all have been in hollow darkness at some point in our lives, but I need you to know that GOD’s Word tells us to come out of the darkness and walk in the light of the LORD!  Live as children of light!  The fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth!  Move away from the hollow darkness of lies and live in the light of truth! Darkness cannot live in light!  If you stand in the middle of a football stadium with complete darkness and turn on a pen-light . . . it will illuminate the stadium and be seen!  How much more then should CHRIST be seen in the center of our lives!  Hollow darkness will lead to a hollowend, but the light of the LORD will always lead us to truth!

HOLLOW WILL

Verse 17 says, ¹⁷ Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

The dictionary defines fool as a silly or stupid person; a person who lacks judgment or sense!  Only a fool would believe in a hollow will!  But we are called to live in the LORD’s will.  You see . . . in a hollow will we celebrate some hollow things!  And sometimes we will claim to do hollow things to do good or try to validate our hollow will as something with meaning! In the book of 1^st Samuel, chapter 10, Samuel tells Saul to go down to Gilgal and wait for him.  Samuel told him that he would be in Gilgal later and Saul was to wait seven days for him to get there so that he could give instructions on what to do.  GOD’s Will was for Samuel to sacrifice burnt offerings and fellowship offerings when he got to Gilgal!  In chapter 13 of 1 Samuel, we see that while Saul was waiting for Samuel . . . some bad things started happening!  He found himself in the middle of a fight between Jonathan and the Philistine!  Saul’s men began to quake with fear and scatter.  Even though Samuel had not yet arrived, Saul called for his men to bring burnt and fellowship offerings.  Just as Saul was finishing with the burnt offering, Samuel arrived and Saul stopped what he was doing to go greet him.  Starting with verse 11, it says, ¹¹ “What have you done?” asked Samuel. Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, ¹² I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.” ¹³ “You acted foolishly,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. ¹⁴ But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD’s command.”  Saul was doing his own will and not waiting for GOD’s will.  He was suppose to be waiting on Samuel to come and tell him what to do, but instead, Saul took matters into his own hands . . . without any instructions!  Saul acted on his own hollow will out of panic because Samuel had not got there yet.  Now we can’t judge Saul because some of us do the same thing!  Some folks think that if the leader isn’t around then there is no leadership, so they must take matters into their own hands!  You would think Saul learned his lesson in chapter 13, but when you go on to chapter 15, you will see that Saul continues to make the same foolish choices. A hollow will can leave you walking in a circle for a lifetime without any purpose or direction!  Can you imagine walking in a circle (walk in a circle) and still not know where you are going! How long are we going to walk around in our own hollow will?

But in HIS holy will, we can live in victory!  GOD’s Will is not to destroy us or lead us astray!  GOD’s Will is that none should perish and that we all return to HIM!   See, even if we cannot physically see GOD with our physical eyes . . . it doesn’t mean we are without leadership!  HE still sits on the throne! A hollow will leads to a hollowend!  But GOD’s Will leads us to the Promised Land!  We can make up all the holidays, ceremonies and traditions we want, but if it is not according to GOD’s Holy Will . . . it is a hollow will that leads to a hollowend!

MESSAGE CONCLUSION

It can be called All Hallow’s Eve, All Saints Day, Sha-ween, or Halloween, it can leave us with a lot of emptiness!  We can debate for the next hundred years about these holidays and never rejoice in HIS Holy days!  Hollow Words, Hollow Darkness and Hollow Wills are all pathways to a hollowend!

We have a Holy Word, a Holy Light and GOD’s Holy Will that leads us in the path of HIS Holy ways!  We shouldn’t spend 31 Oct grieved because of the little costumes and candy!  Be educated on the seriousness of those who celebrate this as a highlight of their false religion! Know what you mean when you say “Happy Halloween” Ensure your kids know about the goodness of GOD’s light in the darkest places!  We must trust in HIS Holy Word and not our hollow ways!

PRAYER

LORD, give us a heart to celebrate YOUR day that YOU have made and not be concerned or frustrated about the holiday that man has made!  Help us to love one another as YOU have commanded us to do!  For anyone who has come to the realization that they have not been honoring YOU on the 31st of October, we ask in the name of JESUS that they repent and trust in YOU!  Let them rejoice in the Holy Day of YOU and not the holiday of man!  We thank YOU for YOUR grace, mercy and understanding!

Suffering Through Trials and Tribulations 1 Peter 4:12-17&19

Sermon of the Week
1 Peter 4:12-17&19
"Suffering Through Trials and Tribulations"
By Elder Edward Wooten

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.  If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.  For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?  And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

Message Introduction

As Christians today, the Apostle Peter has told us not to count our suffering as strange Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” (1 Peter 4:12)  Peter is speaking to us today, and he’s telling us that we must stay focused, and to give serious meditation regarding his declaration, in that we may now grasp the spiritual application as it now so timely applies to our generation; that we may also be strengthened, and encouraged as we continue to press our way forward; that we may endure despite the many trials and tribulations upon us!

Today there’s much suffering in the World, we’re truly living in very troubled times, and in fact many believe that we are living in “the last days of the Church age,” and many also believe that it’s a “time of judgment” for God’s household.”  Who would argue with me, clearly our economy has fallen and is still failing, this coupled with the many ills of our society has certainly not promoted good moral health for a nation once founded on the principles of a godly nature?  We are living in a time when the ills of our society are having a harmful influence on the life of many Christians today, as many are starting to buy into the Worldview. What then is the proper Christian response to the many trials and tribulations that we now suffer?   No, I think not—unless I misunderstand Peter, we’re not to be surprised by our fiery ordeals, but to rejoice in them, taking on all insults from the ungodly; even in our suffering we must continue obeying the Word God, not ashamed but committed to doing what is good in the eyes of our faithful Creator.

1.      Trials & Tribulations

What then is the proper Christian response to the many trials and tribulations that we now suffer?

Dear friends, I must say that when it comes down to suffering through the many trials and tribulations of this world—what I am about to say to you may sound like the stuff of a science fiction movie.  Unfortunately, it is our current reality in the real-world. Many of us have gotten too comfortable in a “Profitable America.”  But now we realize that the “Profitable America” was only the calm in the storm.  The storm is now upon us all and we are facing an economic downturn of astronomical proportions and currently still running ramped throughout the World.  What’s happening right now in Greece is maybe the epicenter of what may prove to be one of the most terrifying political and socio-economic crises of our lifetime!  And if you have kept abreast of currents events then you already know that Greece isn't alone in this; Spain, Italy, Portugal and Ireland have also faced mounting debt problems, and while not yet as severe in America, it seems that we’re not very far behind.

The reality is that we’re living in a time of wars and rumors of wars, and we’ve experienced mounting natural disasters. There’s rising social inequalities and unrest in the streets stemming from this still-unfolding global economic downturn, and unfortunately this all adds up to a potential “time bomb” if left unaddressed.  If things continue as they are going, this could potentially tear apart the moral fabric of our society.  Today, these are the very real trials and tribulations we now face, yet we in spite of it all, must continue to stand in our faith. “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good” (1 Peter 4:19)

We are now witnessing homosexuality that’s running ramped, an economy that’s in shambles, crime is epidemic, alcoholism, drug abuse, are all “off the charts.”  Even still, our Bible tells us to “Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) And Peter tells us of our suffering “If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.” (1 Peter 4:15)

Folks . . . America is hurting, to include Christians—what then is the proper Christian response to the many trials and tribulations that Christians now suffer?  I submit to you that now’s the time for Christians to demonstrate their love of God; because if we truly love God then we also must love our neighbor as we love ourselves.  Christian love is why we should now be giving freely from the hearts, to help those brothers and sisters who are now suffering. 

Christians more materially blessed by the Lord should willingly provide help for their fellow saints—in the body of Christ we are to take care of our own.  God expects us to help one another. It’s not a mere suggestion, in fact, it’s not optional its God’s way of ensuring that we love one another. Yes, it is true that we are facing many trials and tribulations with regards to the current economic downturn but, the truth of the matter is that history always repeats itself.  Therefore, this is not the first time the World has experienced an economic crisis of such magnitude.  Even in the Bible, it speaks of times of drought, famine, economic hardship, poverty and sexual immorality.  Today it’s our very own reality; the question is this, how is our trials and tribulations any different than those of in the Bible days?  One thing is for certain, the Bible tells us “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).  Also, remember the words of Peter “For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (1 Peter 4:17) Let us then obey!

2.      Stress & Relentlessness

Should Christians be filled with restlessness and despair? 

As a result of the many trials and tribulations of today, many stressed out Christians have fallen into sin.  Every day people are losing their jobs at an astronomical rate— saints of God, these things are for real.   It now seems that even those good government jobs, once considered a job for life are no longer safe!—there’re financial cut backs on every front.  It seems as if everything is falling apart all around us.  Far too many Christians have succumbed to the pressures of unemployment, poverty, loss of wealth, plummeting stocks, homes are under water and foreclosed, the standard of living dropping.  Unfortunately, the reality is that Christians have given in to stress, depression, drugs, alcohol abuse, insanity, sexual immorality, and suicide.  And I will go so far as to say that many of us now know personally Christians whom are filled with unhealthy angry, restlessness, and unrelenting despair, and have already falling into the lust of premarital and/or  extramarital sexual sin.  Why are so many Christians falling into sin? 

Christians are feeling and responding to the very same pressures as non-Christians; clearly we aren’t exempt from the lust of the flesh.  Who here among us doesn't struggle with sin?  We too are human and we do not live in a vacuum—we live in a culture filled with many temptations and if we’re not careful will stir up our lust; and when we have fallen, more often than not, it is because we had already lost hope.  Many Christians have fallen even when they least expected it; it’s as if they never saw it coming, the daily stresses of their lives just continually chipped away at their defenses, and before they knew it—they had underestimated the power of spiritual warfare, and in their weakened state, they slowly faltered, eventually giving into Satan’s coning ability in presenting his temptations—name your weakness, is it that pretty woman, that handsome man, money, alcohol, drugs, you name it— we are all continually subjected to temptation.  Some of us fall by trusting in your own strengths; instead we must “Let go & Let God!”  Even still, do not give up hope in the blessed assurance that you may “Return to your fortress, O prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you” (Zechariah 9:12).

Again, “Should Christians be filled with restlessness and despair?” We can learn a lot from the early church, they learned the secret of contentment even in times of persecution and poverty. Yet today it seems that many Christians are grasping at almost any straw that promises to bring an end to their problems—the State Lottery, or even the TV Prosperity Seed-Sowing Ministries—were the preacher guarantees a blessing of a 100-flod return on your money, or by just touching the TV screen you will be healed! However, Jesus warned us to, “Watch out!  Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”  I believe that its love that can break all barriers. In spite of what our eyes and ears are telling us we can have absolute trust, that through love we can overcome all obstacles!  To believe in God is to have absolute trust in His love, mercy and wisdom. To believe in God therefore, is not a feeling or an emotion; rather, it is a sincere combination of conviction and action.  If we recognize that we are sinners and accept God’s help by trusting his decisions, then even if our faith in Him is as small as a mustard seed, He can help us to make it mighty enough to move mountains!

In the heat of the battle it’s hard to remember that our Heavenly father is still in charge and is in total control of our situation. The Bible tells us that God comforts us in our troubles so that we can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-5).  One way we comfort others is to offer them hope in the midst our hard times.  We must come alongside of our brothers and sisters whom are in need, giving freely from our hearts, loving on each other and encouraging one another is what “being” a Christian is all about—we can’t call ourselves Christians and not help one another—our faith requires actions—don’t tell me you’re going to pray for me, if you’re not willing to also help me in other ways as you are able!  An even if in our giving we also suffer then so be it, let it be for doing good and not bad  for “If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name” (1 Peter 4:15.16).  But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”  (1 Peter 4:13) Glory Be to Our God for He is Our Faithful Creator!!

Conclusion

God is bigger than any of your problems.  But know this, “…you can tell the size of your God by looking at the size of your worry list. The longer your list, the smaller is your God.” (~Author Unknown).  I have a good friend who had been unemployed for a number of years and I am sure that he was not without a “worry list” and I am sure he had some measure of stress during his unemployment. My friend and I stayed in touch and we also stayed in the Word of God, and thank God he never gave up trusting God.  But he continued in prayer, and while unemployed, he went back to school using the GI Bill.  God eventually made a way for him, and he’s now back gainfully employed.  And I give God all the praise, because my friend didn’t give up on life, and while enduring his time of trial and tribulation, he stood firm against the temptations of Satan. 

As Christians we must remember that doubt and faith can’t live successful in the same body.  So, we must be willing to go through our particular storm.  In other words, we must pick up our cross and humbly carry it to its final destination!  In order to trust God we need to be humble.  Because humility clears our heart of pride, and opens us up to the Word of God.  When we accept His Word, we will have trust in him.  Some of us trust our since of “security” to our own personal abilities, and some of us think we will be secure because we have money in the bank, or we feel secure because we have specialized skills, and education. The truth fact of the matter is that none of these things can protect us in the day of trials and tribulations.

God uses problems, difficulties, and suffering in our lives to drive us into His loving arms.—to refine us (To Produce Fruit).  Jesus said: “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” (Revelation 3:19)  Christians are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  “Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). 

Finally, be as Job who “Let Go & Let God!” God is a sovereign God, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised." (Job 1:21) And “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him (Job 13:15a). Love God and Love Your Neighbor as You Love Yourself!  HELP ONE ANOTHER!

Invitation

Do you find yourself burden and heavy laden by stress in your life and things are just not going well for you?  Your fun meter in life low, and you have little hope that things will change; besides noting seems to be getting better anyway!  It’s just not in the cards for you.  It may be that you’re nearing the end of the rope, and times are just too hard.  Many people today are in desperate need of help and have no one to turn to.  Many feel that they’ve tried everything they knew to do, and have expended all resources and yet, their backs are still up against the wall. 

My friend, I pray that something in this sermon has given you the cause to pause just for a moment; a moment to contemplating the circumstances of your own life.  Because there is power in the Word of God!  His Word speaks to those who are willing to hear Him his voice.  When the Word God speaks to you directly, it never returns to Him void.  If God has spoken to you, I urge you not turn away, not to postpone, and not to think about tomorrow, but simply to realize the that the voice you hear calling depth from within you—both the mind and the heart are now in agreement and it’s just that simple.  My friend, the rest is now up to you—how will you respond to God?

Don’t wait another second, seek his face, and He will come into your heart—he already knows your heart; simply confess your sins, and believe that Jesus Christ is your Savior and by the grace of God you’re saved! 

Prayer

Dear Lord we first giving you all Praise, Glory and Honor unto your Holy name, and for your precious Word, the light of truth for your people.  We thank you for your untiring love and patience towards our disobedience and we thank you…that even in our sufferings, trials, and tribulations you’re with us always, every step of the way.   We thank you for your precious everlasting grace.  And pray now dear Lord for your guiding hand…. that you oh Lord will direct our steps, and quite our minds during these troubling times—and as we endure the trials of this current economic downturn, teach us dear Lord to remain steadfast in our faith and our trust in you—we know oh Lord that you’re in the mist of our storms and that you will direct our steps, and we thank you for your faithfulness…that you will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, and that you will provide a way out for us, in order that we may endure.  Please forgive us for all our sins and our transgressions, as you increase our love and faith for you and for each other…as it’s in the precious Holy name of your Son; Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior we do pray—Amen, Amen,& Amen

As always, we encourage you to find a church home to fellowship with.  You can accept JESUS into your life right now by confessing with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. (Romans 10:8-10) No one has to be in the room with you . . . GOD hears the words from your mouth and your heart!  The propper response is "Yes JESUS, I accept YOU today!"

If you have any questions in reference to this message or salvation, please contact a local pastor and/or you can email me at nhishand@comcast.net , I will be more than happy to share what the LORD has done for me!

Above The Law

Sermon of the Week

Romans 2:17-29 (NIV)

"Above The Law"

¹⁷Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and brag about your relationship to God; ¹⁸if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; ¹⁹if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, ²⁰an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth—

²¹you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? ²²You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? ²³You who brag about the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? ²⁴As it is written: "God's name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you."

 ²⁵Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though you had not been circumcised. ²⁶If those who are not circumcised keep the law's requirements, will they not be regarded as though they were circumcised? ²⁷The one who is not circumcised physically and yet obeys the law will condemn you who, even though you have the^[c] written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker.   ²⁸A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. ²⁹No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man's praise is not from men, but from God.

Message Introduction

The apostle Paul is speaking directly to the Jews and his message to them is very clear.  He identifies who the audience is in verse 17 when he says, “Now you, if you call yourself a Jew . . .” This makes it very clear he is talking to the Jews.  And if we were to look at today’s sermon in a precept forum, we would circle or mark the word “law” 10 times throughout these 12 verses.  And if we were to go back and review verses 12 thru 15, we would see that the word “law” was used 10 times within those 4 verses.  Within the last 17 verses of Romans 2, the word “law” is used 20 times.  This gives a strong indication that his message is in reference to the law and how the Jews are not obeying it.  Paul is telling the Jews to stop breaking the laws, which they are responsible for keeping. 

If you have a wonderful . . . cooked to perfection . . . 40 oz steak, would you try to shove the whole thing in your mouth at one time?  Of course not!  If you did try, more than likely you would choke, or miss the whole experience of the tender, well cooked meal.  Nor would you try to shove an entire cake down your throat!  How would you eat the steak or cake?  One bite at a time!  So, instead of trying to consume all these verses at once to understand what Paul is telling the Jews, let’s break it down into bite-size pieces, starting with verses 17-20. 

1.      No One Is Above The Law (vs. 17-20)

·         The Jews felt that since they were inheritance of the law, keepers of the law and the chosen people of GOD, they could disregard honoring the law.  They felt they were above the law.

·         Paul is letting them know that being a Jew, does not place them above the law.  In fact, for that very reason, the Jew should be the first to honor and obey GOD’s laws.

·         Matthew 5:16-18.  JESUS said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.  I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

2.      Practice What You Preach (vs.21-24)

·         Paul is speaking to the hypocritical Jews.  He is asking them, “Do you practice what you preach!” 

·         The Jews instructed others to keep the law, but they did not keep the law themselves. 

·         Even the Gentiles could see that the Jews were being hypocrites.  In doing so, the Jews were not bringing honor and glory to GOD.  Instead, GOD’s name was blasphemed among the Gentiles because of them.  The Gentiles could see that the Jews were saying one thing and doing the exact opposite.

·         Matthew 7:3-5. JESUS said, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?  How can you say to your brother, “Let me take the speck out of your eye,” when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?  You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

3.      Be True Outward & Inward (vs. 25-29)

·         Paul is telling the Jews that being circumcised is an outward obedience that means nothing if there is no obedience in the heart. 

·         In fact, the uncircumcised who keep the law will condemn those who are circumcised and do not keep the law. 

·         In the last two verses Paul is telling them that a man is not a Jew based on the outward appearance of a physical circumcision, but when a man of inheritance and relationship has been circumcised in the heart, then he is a true Jew.

·         Matthew 22:35-40.  One of them, an expert in the law, tested HIM with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” JESUS replied: “Love the LORD your GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”  All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Message Conclusion

Paul’s urgency and directness in this passage is to warn the Jews of their hypocritical conduct.  He is telling them that you cannot boast on the fact of being a Jew without doing what is required by GOD’s law as a Jew.  He urges the Jews to practice what they preach.  They cannot continue to tell others what GOD’s law is, then disregard HIS laws because they are born Jews. And finally, Paul wants the Jews to understand that they are to be Jews inwardly.  A Jew must believe in their heart that they are a Jew before they can demonstrate it outwardly.  JESUS wants us to understand that we cannot put ourselves above GOD’s Law; we have got to practice what we preach.  Our Christian walk is not just for us, but also for the unbeliever who is watching.  We have to be a Christian in our hearts first, before we can walk as a Christian outwardly.  The greatest commandment of the Law starts with the love of GOD in our hearts.  If we cannot love GOD from the heart, we can never truly love others or ourselves and this makes us lawbreakers!

Invitation

No one is above GOD’s Law; however, please understand that it is not by our works that we are saved.  It is by the grace of GOD and our acceptance of HIS Son as our personal LORD and Savior.  If you want to love GOD with all your heart, you must believe that JESUS died on the cross for our sins and that HE rose in three days with all power in HIS hand.  Know that JESUS is the One who can help you through all of your trials and tribulations.  HE will never leave you nor forsake you if you accept HIM.  HE will be your lawyer for every case the devil tries to bring before GOD.  Please, it’s time for you to make the best decision of your eternal life.  Simply put . . . do you choose heaven or hell?  One has an eternal life of peace and joy, and the other has an eternal life of chaos and torment. I am not trying to scare you, but I have been transparent throughout the entire sermon, there is no sense in pulling back during the most important part of the worship service.  Are you listening!  Not from my voice to your ears, but are you listening to GOD’s voice speaking to your heart.

Prayer

LORD, thank YOU for giving us a Law is perfect in YOUR grace!  Thank YOU for setting us apart, that we may be able and willing to live according to YOUR Will.  Help us with our unbelief and strengthen us in our walk of faith!  So that we may be fully persuaded that YOU will do just what YOU have promised!  Have mercy on us FATHER!  Keep YOUR hand of protection upon us!  It is in JESUS name we pray! Amen!

We are without excuse of knowing what GOD requires of us!  Apart from CHRIST, we cannot fulfill one law or keep one commandment!  We must seek the help of GOD to do what HE has called us to do!  Get involved in your local church!  Find a healthy bible study and Sunday school program to be involved with!  Don't just attend . . . be involved!  If you have any questions pertaining to this sermon, please post a comment or contact me at nhishand@comcast.net