2007 Approaches Rapidly

Wow! 2006 is almost gone. Are we ready for another year? I am very excited. With each passing day the culmination of all things approaches. It doesn't matter whether Jesus came next year or next century, everything seems to be speeding up. Of course it is not our job to try and figure out when He will come, only to work as hard as we can for Him until He shows up. What is 2007 going to be like? I believe that it will be a very glorious year for all those who are willing to press into the things of God. I know in my spirit that there are some exciting surprises in store for us next year and cannot wait to see what God is going to do. It is unfortunate thought that some people will not see those things even when they happen right in front of them. God Himself said that we would find Him WHEN we seek Him with all our heart. The word "when" is conditional. The manifestation of God in our lives is that promise that is contingent upon our seeking Him with all our heart. In 2007 commit to seeking the Lord in ways that you never have before and I know that you will have a better year than ever before because God will show Himself strong in your life!

PMP

Friendly

"For a man to have friends, he must show himself friendly." I am constantly surprised by people who get upset when people don't treat them the way that they think they should be treated when they themselves are guilty of the very thing that they accuse. This is a very personal lesson that I had to learn before I could become effective in ministry. It is an especially hard lesson to learn when one is shy. For me to be treated kindly, I had to learn kindness. For me to be loved, I had to learn how to love. For me to have strong friends, I had to learn how to be a friend. Look to the needs of those around you and your needs will be met. Look only to your needs and you will be lonely, hurt and bitter. The spiritual principal of reciprocation, "Do unto to others" is always at work in all of our lives. This Sunday look for those around you who need a smile and then do more than smile, take them to lunch. You will grow spiritually and I guarantee that you will be treated the same.

Pastor Mike

Today is a good day!

Today is a good day to be in the will of God. The weather is getting colder. I am very aware of this because the boiler in the parsonage was broke for three days. It got pretty cold in the house. Seasons change! You can always count on that. Sometimes we don't always enjoy the change but it comes regardless of our enjoyment. One of my favorite scriptures in Ecclesiastes 3 says that there is a season for everything, and a time for everything. Some seasons are wonderful and others are kind of tough. Being aware of your season makes the rough ones easier. Spiritually, physically, socially and corporately we are all going through a season. Don't fight against the season but learn from it what is needed and know that this too shall pass. When it comes to spiritual things, not being aware can prolong the season. I Peter 5:8 says to be self-controlled and alert. Watch and be aware. Knowing your season will give you the ability to handle what comes your way. Submit to God and yield to His way and you will always come through.