Month: August 2024

August 28, 2024 Tuesday's Meeting Post a Comment

God’s Hidden Treasures

Opening Scripture

“And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”
—1 Corinthians 2:1-2 (NKJV)

The Simplicity of the Gospel

We Don’t Need Fancy Words

When Paul spoke to the Corinthians, he didn’t rely on impressive speech or human wisdom. He knew that the power of the Gospel wasn’t in clever arguments or eloquence. Instead, it was in the simple truth of Jesus Christ. Paul made it clear that what mattered most was the message of the cross—Christ crucified for our sins.

God’s Wisdom, Not Ours

Human wisdom is limited and often flawed. We can’t fully understand the mysteries of God through our own intellect. Paul reminds us that true wisdom comes from God and is revealed by His Spirit. This wisdom is not something we can achieve by ourselves; it’s a gift from God. The world may see the Gospel as foolish, but to those who are being saved, it is the power of God.

The Holy Spirit Reveals Truth

The deep things of God are revealed to us by the Holy Spirit. Without the Spirit, we cannot understand the things of God because they are spiritually discerned. This means that we need to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth. The Spirit helps us see beyond the surface and understand the depth of God’s love and plan for us.

The Mind of Christ

As believers, we have been given the mind of Christ. This means we can think, act, and love like Jesus. We are called to live in a way that reflects His character and to make decisions that align with His will. The mind of Christ empowers us to live differently from the world, to walk in humility, love, and obedience to God.

Conclusion: Keep It Simple, Keep It True

The message of the Gospel is simple yet profound. We don’t need to complicate it with our own wisdom or impressive words. Like Paul, let’s focus on the core truth—Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Rely on the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s wisdom to you, and let the mind of Christ guide your thoughts and actions.

 

Closing Scripture

“But as it is written: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.'”
—1 Corinthians 2:9 (NKJV)

August 14, 2024 Uncategorized Post a Comment

God’s Mercy & Boldness

Opening Scripture

“The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.”
– Psalms 34:10 (NKJV)

God’s Mercy and Healing Power

Andrew’s testimony about his niece’s recovery after being rushed to the hospital is a powerful reminder of God’s mercy and healing power. In moments of crisis, when fear threatens to overwhelm us, it’s crucial to remember that God is always near, ready to pour out His love and healing upon us. His mercy extends beyond our understanding, bringing hope where there was despair and life where there was illness. Just as Psalms 34:10 reminds us, those who seek the Lord will not lack any good thing—including healing and peace.

Knowing God and Keeping Boldness

In times like these, it’s essential to know God intimately and not allow the enemy to steal our boldness. The enemy often uses fear and doubt to weaken our faith, but we are called to stand firm in the knowledge of who God is. Boldness in faith comes from understanding God’s character—His love, mercy, and righteousness. When we know Him, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that He is with us. Seeking the Lord, as mentioned in Psalms 34:10, brings us closer to Him and strengthens our faith, making us mature and steadfast in His promises.

Maturing in God: Growing in Faith and Understanding

As we grow in our relationship with God, we also grow in spiritual maturity. Maturity in God means learning to trust Him more deeply, even when circumstances are difficult. It means recognizing that His plans are for our good and that He provides for all our needs. Just like a young lion might struggle to find food, we might face challenges—but those who seek God lack nothing essential. Spiritual maturity also involves developing a deeper understanding of God’s Word, applying it to our lives, and growing in wisdom and discernment.

The Power of God’s Love and Forgiveness

God’s love is vast, His mercy is endless, and His forgiveness is freely given to all who seek Him. This love should inspire us to live boldly and righteously, not in our strength, but in His. We are encouraged to approach God with boldness, knowing that His love casts out fear and His mercy covers all our shortcomings. In God’s love, we find the strength to stand firm and the courage to live righteously. A mature faith understands that God’s love and forgiveness are foundational, enabling us to extend that same love and forgiveness to others.

Celebrating Family and Milestones

Family gatherings, like celebrating a grandmother’s 90th birthday, are significant moments that remind us of the importance of family. These times allow us to reflect on God’s faithfulness across generations and to give thanks for His sustaining grace. They are opportunities to strengthen our bonds and to celebrate the lives of those we love. For those who are maturing in God, such milestones are also moments to share the wisdom of faith, passing down spiritual lessons to the next generation.

Committing to Family Well-Being

As we reflect on the importance of family, let us also commit to supporting our loved ones in all aspects of life. This includes their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Let Andrew’s testimony inspire us to pray fervently for our families, to be present in their lives, and to ensure that they know the love and peace that only God can provide. Maturity in God leads us to take responsibility for the spiritual health of our families, guiding them towards the Lord and ensuring they too seek Him wholeheartedly.

Let us remember that God’s mercy and love are ever-present, and His healing power is available to all who call upon Him. As we mature in our faith, may we live with boldness, knowing that our God is with us, guiding and protecting our families.

Closing Scripture

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NKJV)

 

Giving Link

https://cash.app/$Band0fBrothers

August 7, 2024 Tuesday's Meeting Post a Comment

Covenant Brotherhood

Opening Scripture

“My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.”
—1 John 2:1-2 (NKJV)

God’s Intentional Presence and Protection

We are surrounded by God’s intentional presence and protection every day. This is a powerful reason for our gratitude and praise. God is not distant; He is actively involved in our lives, watching over us and guiding us.

Understanding God’s Personal Relationship with Us

Recognizing the personal and intentional nature of God’s relationship with us enhances our worship. He knows us by name and cares deeply for each of us. This personal connection invites us to worship Him with sincere hearts, knowing we are cherished.

Closeness and Intimacy with God

Emphasizing the closeness and intimacy of our relationship with God leads to a deeper connection. He is not just a distant deity but a loving Father who desires a close relationship with us. This intimacy grows as we spend time in prayer and reading His Word.

Covenant Brotherhood

In our spiritual walk, we are bound by a covenant brotherhood that goes beyond familial ties. This spiritual bond unites us as one body in Christ, supporting and uplifting each other through life’s challenges.

Testimonies of Growth and Transformation

Sharing testimonies of spiritual growth and transformation is essential for strengthening our faith and unity. These stories remind us of God’s power and faithfulness, encouraging us to trust Him more deeply.

Overcoming Challenges and Forgiveness

One powerful testimony is overcoming challenges and showing forgiveness towards others. Forgiveness is a reflection of God’s grace in our lives and a crucial step in our spiritual journey. It brings healing and peace, allowing us to move forward with a clear heart.

Protecting Peace and Energy

In the face of adversity, it’s important to protect our peace and energy. Staying grounded in God’s presence helps us maintain our focus and strength, enabling us to navigate difficult times with grace.

Reflecting on Personal Growth

Taking time to reflect on our personal growth and learn from past experiences is vital. These reflections help us recognize how far we’ve come and how God’s hand has been at work in our lives.

Walking in the Spirit

Finally, walking in the Spirit, loving others, and abiding in the light keeps us from darkness. By staying close to God and following His guidance, we can live lives that reflect His love and truth.

The Test of Knowing Him

“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, ‘I know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.”
—1 John 2:3-6 (NKJV)

Our lives are a testimony of our faith in God. When we keep His commandments and walk as Jesus did, we show that we truly know Him. This obedience is a reflection of our love for God and our desire to live in His truth.

Abiding in the Light

“Brethren, I write no new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which you heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write to you, which thing is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining.
He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.”
—1 John 2:7-11 (NKJV)

Love is the foundation of our faith. When we love our brothers and sisters, we walk in the light of God. Hatred and unforgiveness keep us in darkness, but love leads us into His marvelous light. Let us strive to love one another, forgiving as we have been forgiven, and walk together in the light of Christ.

Let’s embrace the intentional presence and protection of God, deepen our relationship with Him, and share our testimonies to build each other up in faith. May we walk in His Spirit, love others, and abide in His light, shining brightly for His glory.