Monday, December 30, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 31. 2014

Grace for your spirit
Consecrate  yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.  Joshua 3:5

After 40  years in the wilderness, it was time to cross over Jordan and into the promised land.  Some were worried, some fearful, perhaps some angry.  What they needed was a combination of trust and dedication to the Lord's leading.  That pretty much describes many of us as well.  We sing a hymn about such trust and dedication, called, "I know who holds tomorrow".  The chorus ends with the words, "Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand, but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand."  As we look at this near year coming, may we consecrate ourselves, and praise the Lord for the wonders He will do among us.   Happy New Year to you all.

Sunday, December 29, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 30, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Now as for you son of man, I have appointed you a watchman for the house of Israel; so you will hear a message from My mouth and give them warning from Me.  Ezekiel 33:7

A young lady almost had a head on collision with a man who was completely out of control coming out of a curve.  As he passed her, he screamed, "PIG".  It really made her mad, and she screamed back at him, "OX". She then turned around just it time to hit the biggest pig she had ever seen stand in the road.  You see, the man wasn't insulting her, he was warning her.  Ezekiel was sent to warn Israel, but most of them took his words as an insult. Today, Christians have the commission to warn the wicked, and the same thing happens. When we are warned about troubles ahead, let's take them seriously.  God may be in that warning.

Thursday, December 26, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 27, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord,  plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

This is the time of  year that many start thinking about their plans for the new year.  As we plan, do we ever stop and think about what plans God has for us?  Do we ever consider if our plans match up with the plans God might have for us?  God had good plans for the people of Jeremiah's time, but their plans were different.  As a result of their plans, calamity was in their future.  Before we set our plans for tomorrow, may we study, meditate, and pray for God's guidance. When we walk the same path with God, our future will be bright an filled with hope.

Grace for your spirit December 26, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But Ruth said, "Do not  urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge.  Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.  Ruth 1:16

Things had not always been well for Naomi.  She was forced from her homeland by famine, her husband and two sons died, and left her two foreign daughter-in-laws.  As she prepared to go home to Judah, we discover what she did retain.  Her respect for God was implanted in her daughter-in-law Ruth.  Ruth's respect for Naomi and Naomi's God, made her determined to follow and not turn back.  Their sadness turned to joy when Ruth had a child that would begin the family of King David.  Respect was the bridge to joy.  Let's respect God and those around us.  It will be repaid with joy.

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 24, 2013

Grace for your spirit 
"Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?  For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him"

God used the light of fire to lead His people to the promised land. God used the light of the angels to bring the shepherds to the manger. He used a star light to lead the wise men to worship Jesus.  Lights in the sky to bring worshipers to the true light of Jesus. Today, God needs that star of Bethlehem to shine on.  It does shine on in the disciples of Jesus Christ.  Christians are the light of the world.  Our light is meant to shine to bring people to Jesus.  Let's make sure our light is not hidden under a bushel or by a cloud of sin in our lives.  At this season, and every season, may our light appear and lead wandering souls to our Savior.  That way we can all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  


Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Grubbs

Friday, December 20, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 23, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And Peter said to Him, "Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?"

A man was going to climb a mountain with everything he owned strapped on his back.  His guide told him that he couldn't make it to the summit, carrying everything.  At some point he would have to make a decision to give up his stuff or give up the summit.  Jesus promised them that if they gave up their stuff, they we reach the summit in the kingdom, and then they would be rewarded with many times as much and eternal life.  The same is true for us.  Whatever we sacrifice to reach the summit with Jesus will be worth it.  At the summit we too will be rewarded with everything, plus eternal life.  Let's make the right decision now.

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 20, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste of My dinner.  Luke 14:24

Jesus invited everyone to a big dinner in His kingdom.  Instead of coming, all He heard was excuses.  Something about possessions, pursuits, and priorities. As a result they missed the dinner.  It didn't matter how good their excuses or reasons, they missed it.  My mother cooked and cleaned for a big family that knew what time dinner was served.  If we came in late, we got the same story every time.  "You can save the excuses, the kitchen is closed."  Whatever our excuse for unfaithfulness, we still miss it.  Dinner is still being served right now.  I hope we run out of excuses before we run out of time.

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 19, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Then Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe, "I have found the book of the law in the house of the Lord."  And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan who read it.   II Kings 22:8

Josiah became king of Israel at age 8.  He directed his people to clean out the temple and they found a book that no one recognized.  The book was God's law.  It had not been followed for so long, it got lost. When the priests read to it the king, he called for repentance.  How could this happen to God's people?  Josiah started a great change, but it was too late to avoid the coming punishment.  Can you envision sometime in the future, seeing this same scene among us?  Someone cleaning out a church building and finding an old Bible,  and no one knows what it is?  If we don't see a revival soon, that disaster may not be that far away for us too

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 18, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Learn to do good; Seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.  Isaiah 1:17

Isaiah One is a sorry description of God's people who had completely lost their way.  God was sick of their hypocrisy and Isaiah called for repentance and change.  This verse is their marching orders.  Learn to do good, seek what is right and just, correct the ruthless, and help the orphans and widows.  Centuries later James reaches out to rebellious people, who were hearers of the word and not doers.  James 1:27, "visit orphans and widows in their distress, and keep oneself unstained from the world."  The admonition to clean up and do good is certainly applicable to every generation including ours.

Grace for your spirit December 17 2013

Grace for your spirit
So Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal servant; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he owned he put in his charge.  Genesis 39:4

Joseph was sold into slavery in Egypt by his angry brothers.  He was a teen, living in a foreign land, among foreign gods, and seemingly forgotten by his family.  He could have lived in rebellion, but instead he chose to live by his faith in his God.  God blessed him in his horrible circumstances and Joseph gained the respect of his captors.  That respect lifted him to great success, and he was put in a place to save the world from starvation.  Let's not complain about our circumstances, rather gain the respect of others as we are faithful to God.  Who knows what joys God has for us in the future?

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 16, 2013

Grace for your spirit
An appalling and horrible thing has happened in the land.  The prophets prophecy falsely, and the priest rule on their own authority, and My people love it so!  But what will you do at the end of it?  Jeremiah 5:30-31

The children of God were in deep trouble.  They were soon headed to captivity and refused to hear the truth from God's true prophets.  They loved the prophets and priests who told them what they wanted to hear, but Jeremiah was totally rejected.  The Apostle Paul experienced the same thing describing people who wanted their ears tickled and only had teachers that preached what they liked. This is a pitfall for every generation.  Pray that our teachers will tell us what we need, not just what we want.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 13, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Can a man take fire in his bosom and his clothes not be burned? Or can a man walk on hot coals and his feet not be scorched? Proverbs 6:27-28

The answer to these questions are obvious.  Of course not.  The results of the fire and the burns are apparent and painful.  In the context of these verses God is referring to adultery, but it certainly applies to all rebellion against God that burns us.  We know fire burns, but for some reason we think the burns of sin can be a secret from everyone.  Wrong!  David thought his adultery and murder was hidden, but he knew it, God knew it, the prophet knew it, and everyone around him knew it.  None of us are burn proof.  Let's stay away from the fire.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 12, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you all know.   I John  2:20

In Old Testament times there was a practice of anointing special servants of God with oil.  When a prophet, priest, or king was selected, the blessing and ordination of God was expressed to all by an anointing.  It was to set them apart for a holy work.  Christians in His kingdom are set apart to be saints, prophets, and priests.  For that holy calling, we are sanctified by the anointing of His Holy Spirit.  We know what are challenges and solutions are by that anointing.  Let's walk with confidence through this dark world.  We are the anointed ones, and greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world.

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 11, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you. with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.  Colossians 3:16

Our psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, are designed to comfort and inspire us, and help others around us.  May they carry us and others through many troubles times with thankfulness. 

Suggested hymns for riding with a reckless, speeding driver.
55 mph - God will take care of you
65 mph - Be with me Lord
75 mph - Nearer my God to Thee
85 mph - This world is not my home
95 mph - Precious memories

May your day be a safe and happy ride.

Monday, December 9, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 10, 2013

Grace for your spirit
With all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  Ephesians 4:2-3

Six men were stranded on an island. The soon found out they had differences in their religious preferences.  Two were Jews, two were Catholics, and two were Protestants.  They decided to divide to preserve peace among them.  The Jews went North and built a synagogue.  The Catholics went South and built their church.  One Protestant built the Westside Church and the other the Eastside Church.  Jesus prayed that all His followers would be One, as He and His Father are One.  Let's pray we can find common ground in His Word for a sweet change.

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 9, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Repent therefore and be converted,that your sins may be wiped away, in order that the times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.  Acts 3:19

There are two seas in Israel.  There is the Sea of Galilee in the north. Its waters are regularly renewed and refreshed by fresh water from mountain streams.  It feeds the Jordan River and is full of fish, and life. Many miles to the south, there is The Dead Sea. It is filled with salt and sediment picked up by the Jordan.  It has no fresh supply no life and no outlet.  The ministry of Jesus was around the fresh water, not the dead ones, and they are metaphors of the lives we select.  Will we choose to be Galilee Christians, or Dead Sea Christians?  The Galilee choice offers constant renewal and help for others, full of life and refreshment. May Jesus find us there.

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 6, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch, and for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts  11:26

I have been intrigued by the possible double meaning these words. "They were first called Christians in Antioch".  This is the first time the Bible refers to what the followers of Jesus were called. But I wonder if it could be also referring to their primary identity?  Could it also mean that the people of Antioch saw them first of all as Christians, and then by their occupation and family?  How our churches would catch fire if our communities saw us first of all as Christians, and then by the work we do.  Let's make Christ number one in our lives, and we will bear His image.

Grace for your spirit December 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch, and for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts  11:26

I have been intrigued by the possible double meaning these words. "They were first called Christians in Antioch".  This is the first time the Bible refers to what the followers of Jesus were called. But I wonder if it could be also referring to their primary identity?  Could it also mean that the people of Antioch saw them first of all as Christians, and then by their occupation and family?  How our churches would catch fire if our communities saw us first of all as Christians, and then by the work we do.  Let's make Christ number one in our lives, and we will bear His image.

Grace for your spirit December 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch, and for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts  11:26

I have been intrigued by the possible double meaning these words. "They were first called Christians in Antioch".  This is the first time the Bible refers to what the followers of Jesus were called. But I wonder if it could be also referring to their primary identity?  Could it also mean that the people of Antioch saw them first of all as Christians, and then by their occupation and family?  How our churches would catch fire if our communities saw us first of all as Christians, and then by the work we do.  Let's make Christ number one in our lives, and we will bear His image.

Grace for your spirit December 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch, and for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts  11:26

I have been intrigued by the possible double meaning these words. "They were first called Christians in Antioch".  This is the first time the Bible refers to what the followers of Jesus were called. But I wonder if it could be also referring to their primary identity?  Could it also mean that the people of Antioch saw them first of all as Christians, and then by their occupation and family?  How our churches would catch fire if our communities saw us first of all as Christians, and then by the work we do.  Let's make Christ number one in our lives, and we will bear His image.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.  II Timothy4:5

Once upon a time there was a "duck church".  They waddled in and out every week, and allowed others to do all the work.   They hadn't flapped their wings in so long, they forgot they could fly.  As a result they became "sitting ducks", for every trouble and trial that came their way.  The encouragement to every disciples is to go, disciple, baptize, and teach others; the work of an evangelist.  When we start believing that call is for others, our wings fail to work, and we are sitting ducks until we all waddle home. Let's not be ducks.  Let's be eagles.G

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Grace for your spiritr December 4, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.  I John 5:3

What commandments of God have become a burden to us?  Is attending worship and Bible studies a burden?  Has regular Bible reading and prayer become a burden?  Has helping others and keep ourselves away from worldliness too much for us?  Most of all, has loving others become too hard for us?  How can we remove these burdens?  The answer is loving God more.  When we love Him as we should, those burdens fall aside.  When we meet Him at the judgment, what excuse will be good enough for all we've missed.  The only reason will be, we didn't love Him enough.  We can make those changes right now, and everything else will follow.

Monday, December 2, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 3, 2013

Grace for your spirit
The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself, God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax-collector.  I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.  Luke 18:11-12

Often we look at this prayer and this man with some contempt.  He is praying to himself, and thankful for his own goodness. He praises himself and runs down everyone else.  Let's be careful.  When we look critically at this man running down others, are we placing ourselves above him?  Are we thankful we aren't like him?  When we pray, let's pray to God about what His will is for our lives, and how we can help others.  That humility will be rewarded.

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Grace for your spirit December 2, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.  Colossians  3:17

During this celebration of thanksgiving, I  hope we made a special effort to be a light in dark world.  Whatever our circumstances, wherever we find ourselves, in word and deed, let's give glory and thanks to God.   My wish for you all is that your thanksgiving may be everyday all year long.  Let's be a light of peace, joy, and love.

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 26, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and He turn His anger away from him.  
Proverbs 24:17-18

We live in a world where people are filled with anger, unforgiveness, and the need for revenge.  A world that hopes bad things will happen to their enemies. It should never be this way for the people of God, but sometimes it is that way.  Revenge belongs only to the Lord.  When we take it, we are stealing it from Him.  We can never know what the Lord is doing in their lives, so let's be careful about our emotions. Jesus taught us to pray for our enemies, and pray for blessings, not curses.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 25, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.   Romans 1:21

People see God in different ways, even making up their own gods to fit their lifestyles..The Bible says God has revealed His true nature, and power through the things that have been made.  People often ignore God's word and disguise His presence.  Will wrong perceptions about God, or dullness be a good excuse at the judgment?  God has planted within us the sense to know Him and obey Him.  If we choose to ignore all of that, He says we will be without excuses.  When our life choices are against God's word, which path will we choose?  Choose God, honor Him, and be thankful.

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 22, 2013

Grace for your spirit 
And the master said to the slave, 'Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that my house may be filled.  Luke 14:23

Jesus let us know in this parable that getting people to enjoy the riches of His kingdom is often very difficult.  We put up a nice sign on our building that says, "Lost sheep welcome", yet most people won't learn, they must be taught.  Most people won't come alone, they must be brought. What is next step after we have extended the invitation?  Jesus said to go back and compel them to come in.  Compelling requires enthusiasm and persistence.  Is the extra effort worth it?  Let's dig a little deeper and find a compelling reason to keep going.

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 21, 2013

Grace for your spirit

David the son of Jesse declares, the man who was raised on high declares, the anointed one of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, "The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me, and His word was on my tongue.  II Samuel 23:1-2

David is known for his psalms, and this passage is called "David's last song".  David's last words were the words of God on his tongue.  This is in stark contrast of many people, like Ananias and Sapphira recorded in Acts 5.  The last words on their tongues were lies, after their hearts were filled by Satan.  The lied to the Holy Spirit and the apostles, and they died immediately.  Somebody said the famous last words of many people are, "Hey ya'll, watch this!!!"  May we all make a commitment to leave this world praising God, not cursing Him.  The way we speak everyday, will probably be our last words too.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 20, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good work, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.  Ephesians.  2:10

Remember the old hymn, "To the work, to the work, we are servants of God.  Let us follow the path that our Master has trod."  God created us in Christ to walk in good works.  Are we afraid we might fail? Airplanes might crash, ships might sink, but statistics prove they will last longer if they fly and go to sea.  Airplanes rust out in a hanger. Ship rot out in dock.  Besides that, they were not made to stay in the hanger or by the dock.  As Christians, would we rather wear out, or rust out?  Let's do what we were created for in Christ and let the Lord provide.  

Monday, November 18, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 19, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.  Ephesians 5:4

 When Jesus is in our heart, there should be change of heart, change of mind, and change of speech. New man, new mouth. When someone wants to tell me a joke, I always say, "Good, I am looking for a good story for my sermon on Sunday."  If it isn't fit to preach it in church services, I don't want it in my brain at all."  Why can the vilest person know what kind of humor is inappropriate, but the church member does not?  Most will decline to tell me the joke, and I'm glad.  I certainly don't want to hear it from church members.  Let's be discerning about our speech

Friday, November 15, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 16, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.  Ephesians 4:12

It takes skills, leadership, and plans to build a building right.  Anyone can tear it down.  The same is true with the body of Christ.  The saints need to be trained and equipped with knowledge, love, and leadership.  Anyone can tear it down.  There was a kids movie called. "Wreck it Ralph."  Fix it Felix built things up and Wreck it Ralph tore it down. Whether we do anything or not, we are either a fixer or a wrecker. Let's prepare to build rather than sitting by to tear down the work of others.

Thursday, November 14, 2013

What to expect at the Northwest Church of Christ

The church building is located on U.S 41 North at Florida Avenue. Just 1/2 mile north of the 41/63 interchange in Terre Haute, Indiana

Sunday Bible Classes: 9:30 AM
Sunday Worship 10:30 AM:
Sunday Evening 6:00 PM:
Wednesday Study 7:00 PM:

Radio Programs
93.7 FM at 7:40 AM & 4:40 PM Tuesday, Thursday & and Sunday's sermon replayed on Wednesday at 7:00 AM

Help for those in need
Right after Thanksgiving, we will begin to collect food for Christmas food baskets.  Any non perishable items that have a holiday flavor are welcome, including canned hams.
We will also begin collecting hats, gloves, scarves, and socks for elementary students.    These will be distributed right after the Christmas break.
BELIEF STATEMENT
We are a fellowship of believers in Christ who believe in one all powerful, all knowing, ever present God. We believe the Bible is God's inspired word, and provides our only standard of right and wrong.

We believe that Jesus Christ, God's Son, died for our sins all the cross, was buried, and rose from the dead for our justification. We believe that mankind is lost without the saving blood of Jesus and that He is the only way to the Father

We believe that saving faith includes repentance, and baptism for the forgiveness of our sins. We believe the baptized believer is a member of the Lord's church and the kingdom of God.

We believe that the Christians should worship properly and share the good news of Jesus until He returns with out heavenly reward

At worship you may expect joyous acappella singing,prayers,communion services, and a lesson from the Bible every Sunday Expect our worship to be warm, uplifting, and orderly, praising the Lord.

Everyone is always welcome. We hope you will be spiritually enriched by your worship visit

Grace for your spirit November 15, 2013

Grace for your spirit  
Go then, eat your bread in happiness and drink your wine with a cheerful heart, for God has already approved your works. Ecclesiastes 9:7

King Solomon had tried almost everything to find happiness and satisfaction in life.  Everything from excess work to excess pleasure, and nothing seemed to work. At the end, he realized the secret was fearing God and keeping His commandments. He found the secret to happiness was walking approved of God.  An old camp song we used to sing says it very well.
"Happiness is to know the Savior.   Living a life within His favor.
Having a change in my behavior.    Happiness is the Lord."
So, the key to happiness is the Lord on our lives.  
Have a happy and cheerful day.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Grace for your spirit November14, 2013

Grace for your spirit
So they gave out to the sons of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, "The land through which we have gone in spying it out, is a land that devours its inhabitants; and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great size." Numbers 13:32

Do you know who any of these men are?  Shammua, Shaphat, Igal, Palti, Gaddiel, Gaddi, Ammiel, Sethur, Nahbi, Geuel,  Of the 12 men that were selected to spy out the land of Canaan, these are the names of the 10 that did not trust in God for victory.  Their bad report turned Israel around, back to idolatry, and death in the wilderness. Two of the spies believed God would give them victory but they were out shouted. They were Joshua and Caleb.  Do our words move people toward God or the other way?  Let's be remembered for our uplifting words.

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 13, 2013

Grace for your spirit  
Zaccheus stopped and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much.  Luke 19:8

The kids song about Zaccheus only lets us know that he was a wee little man in a tree, and took Jesus home with him.  It is sad that's all the story we get.  In fact, Jesus and Zaccheus went in gladness while other grumbled.  Jesus in his home transformed his life.  Yesterday Zaccheus was a rich, crooked tax collector, then Jesus changed his heart and his direction in life.  He invited Jesus home, he allowed Jesus to change his heart, and that changed his heart for his enemies and the poor.  Let's let Jesus into our lives, our home, our heart, and enjoy the change. 

Monday, November 11, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 12, 2013

Grace for your spirit 
But they did not understand this statement, and they were afraid to ask Him.  Mark 9:32

Any student that adopts this attitude is on the path of failing.  Have we ever been such a student?  We weren't getting the material, but we didn't want to ask a question and look stupid?  We don't look any better when we fail the test.  This was true of Jesus' disciples.  They didn't know, they didn't ask, and they failed their tests.  Let's resolved to do better.  When we have a question, usually someone else has the same question and is afraid to ask too.  Let's do ourselves a favor and a favor for them too.

Friday, November 8, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 11, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good-for-nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court, and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into  the fiery hell.  Matthew 5:22

A preacher opened a letter with one word on it. FOOL !  He told his congregation he had received many letters unsigned, but this was the first one with no letter than was signed.   Somebody called him a fool and he called him a fool right back.  Who was right?  Neither was right because none of us has the right to call anyone a fool.  We don't know all the facts about anyone.  However, when God called us a fool, we really are one.  Yes, "the fool has said in his heart, there is no God." Psalm 14:1

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 8, 2013

Grace for your spirit
In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive.  Acts 20:35

God is a giver, Christ was a giver, and He instilled the joy of giving in all His servants.  The apostle Paul was a giver, and he labored to instill that principle of Christian maturity in others by word and deed.  Those who never reach spiritual maturity will never understand the blessing of sacrificial giving.  When we are children, we only think about what we will receive in presents, but as we mature we find more joy in giving than receiving.  If we are only in the church for what we can get out of it, we have missed the point.  The blessing is in the giving. Let's be givers.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 7, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation.  I Peter 2:12

We were always taught there are two kinds of people.  Jews and those who were not Jews called Gentiles. The word Gentile when used in the Bible means that and much more.  The Jews believed it represented those without God, but it is much broader.  Heathens, pagan, idolaters, atheists, infidels, non-believers, miscreants, polytheists are also without God.  When someone asks us if we are Jew or Gentile, the answer is neither.  The 3rd race is Christian.  Not Jew, but certainly not Gentile without God.  Introducing ourselves as the 3rd race, will lead our conversation straight to Jesus and glorifying God.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 6, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And he cried out and said, "Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in the flame."    Luke 16:24

A church, looking for a new preacher, assigned all of their candidates the exact same passage of scripture to compare them.  Luke 16:19-31 is the story of a rich man and a poor man named Lazarus.The story ends in Hades with Lazarus in the comfort of Abraham, and the rich man in flames and agony.  All the preachers did very well, and at the end of the tryouts, one was given the job.  When he asked how he got the job they replied, "You are the only one that expressed sorrow about the rich man in agony.  How about us?  Are we sorry anyone will be lost and miss heaven?  Sorrow and compassion are very attractive features in a Christian.  Do we have them?

Monday, November 4, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 5, 2013

Grace for your spirit
If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.  John 15:7

Dear God, please untie the knots that are in my mind, my heart, and my life.  Remove the have nots, the can nots, and the do nots that I have in my mind.  Erase the will nots, may nots, and might nots that find a home in my heart.  Release me from the could nots, would nots and should nots that obstruct my life.  And most of all, dear God, I ask that you remove from my mind, my heart, and my life, all of the am nots that I have allowed to hold me back.  Especially the thought that I am not good enough.  

Abide, believe, ask, receive.  Believe it or Knot!

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Grace; for your spirit November 4, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!  For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanliness. Matthew 23:27

Has our relationship with God made us beautiful on the outside or on the inside?  We can dress ourselves in religion to be seen of others, and people can think we are really holy.  James one says that if we think we are religious, but don't control our tongue, keep ourselves unstained from the world, and help those in need, our religion is worthless.  What is a beautiful life?  We sing a song by that name that describes the beautiful life by helping those in need, helping the troubled soul, lending a helping hand, and lifting a traveler's load. Someday we will all stand before God and be judged, not by what was on the outside, but what was on the inside.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Grace for your spirit November 1, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside.  I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.  Psalm 84:10

The sons of Korah were Levites and assigned "porters of the temple". Their psalms were designed to boost the worship experience in the temple.  It was their assigned job, but they seemed to really love their tasks.  How great it is, when we would rather be in worship than anywhere else on earth.  In the covenant of Christ, Christians are temples of the Holy Spirit, and priests in His kingdom.  Do our lives show we would rather be in worship than anyplace else?  It is our job, but wouldn't it be great if we really loved our tasks?

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 31, 2013

Grace for your spirit
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service.  I Timothy 1:12 

Almost everyday, somebody will ask us, "How ya doing?"  "Whatd'ya know?"  Do we usually respond with "Not bad" or "nothin."  What a great opportunity this could be to share or faith and mission for Jesus. How are we doing?  We're doing great because our faith in Christ has strengthened us to overcome, and His faithfulness has made us faithful.  We now have a focus and a mission to serve others.  Let's be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in us at all times, and watch our lives change. 

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 30, 2013

Grace for your spirit
They shall eat the flesh that same night, roasted with fire, and they shall eat it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs.  Exodus 12:8

The night Israel went free from Egyptian bondage, they put the blood of the lamb on their doorposts so the death angel would pass over. Their passover feast was the sacrificed lamb, bread with no leaven, and bitter herbs.  The lamb of sacrifice, no leaven symbolic of the sin out of their houses, and bitter herbs, symbolic of bitterness of bondage.  Jesus instituted the Lord's supper with only the unleavened bread and fruit of the vine.  Why no lamb or bitter herbs?  Jesus is our lamb, and all our bitterness is taken away by His sacrifice.  Enjoy feasting with Him with the symbolism of His body and His blood.  See you at supper.

Monday, October 28, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 29, 2013

Grace for your spirit
If is disagreeable in  your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.  Joshua 24:15

People often ask, "Why does God allow suffering?  Why do bad things happen to good people.  Why didn't God create a perfect world without sin, sorrow, sickness, and death?  In fact, God did create a world without sin, sorrow, sickness and death.  That world was changed by man, not God.  Our world was changed by the FALL, the FLOOD, FREEDOM, and FOOLISHNESS.  The fall of man brought sin into the world, The flood changed our world.  Mankind was given freedom to serve the Lord or Satan, and foolishly man chose Satan. That is why there is suffering, bad things, sin, sickness, and sorrow. Here, Joshua encourages good choices for God's people.  What will our choices be?  Let's choose carefully.  We will reap what we sow.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 28, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But now faith, hope, and love, abide these three, but the greates of these is love.  I Corinthians 13:13

Are our lives motivated by worry, fear, and anger?  That is the wrong motivation for success and happiness, however it is what seems to control most people.  We need an antidote for these diseases.  It may be that we need to take this prescription daily.  I believe the antidote for worry is faith.  The cure for fear is hope, and the remedy for anger is love.  I seem need this almost everyday and I hope it will be of help to someone else also.  Worry>Faith.  Fear>Hope. Anger>Love. Together, we can get through most anything.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Great for your spirit October 25, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you, and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.  Matthew 28:19-20

This is known as the Great Commission, and the marching orders for every believer.  We have been discipled, baptized, and taught, and now the job passes  to us.  Everyone must allow themselves to be discipled in order to be saved.  Everyone must humble themselves to be joined to Christ in baptism, and submissive enough to be taught. Let's join our "great commission" to their "great invitation", so we may see many come to Christ and be saved in the last day. The greatest compliment to Jesus is to desire others to be a part of His church as well.

What to expect at Northwest Church of Christ

The church building is located on U.S 41 North at Florida Avenue. Just 1/2 mile north of the 41/63 interchange in Terre Haute, Indiana

Sunday Bible Classes: 9:30 AM
Sunday Worship 10:30 AM:
Sunday Evening 6:00 PM:
Wednesday Study 7:00 PM:

Radio Programs
93.7 FM at 7:40 AM & 4:40 PM Tuesday, Thursday & and Sunday's sermon replayed on Wednesday at 7:00 AM

Help for those in need
Right after Thanksgiving, we will begin to collect food for Christmas food baskets.  Any non perishable items that have a holiday flavor are welcome, including canned hams.
We will also begin collecting hats, gloves, scarves, and socks for elementary students.    These will be distributed right after the Christmas break.
BELIEF STATEMENT
We are a fellowship of believers in Christ who believe in one all powerful, all knowing, ever present God. We believe the Bible is God's inspired word, and provides our only standard of right and wrong.

We believe that Jesus Christ, God's Son, died for our sins all the cross, was buried, and rose from the dead for our justification. We believe that mankind is lost without the saving blood of Jesus and that He is the only way to the Father

We believe that saving faith includes repentance, and baptism for the forgiveness of our sins. We believe the baptized believer is a member of the Lord's church and the kingdom of God.

We believe that the Christians should worship properly and share the good news of Jesus until He returns with out heavenly reward

At worship you may expect joyous acappella singing,prayers,communion services, and a lesson from the Bible every Sunday Expect our worship to be warm, uplifting, and orderly, praising the Lord.

Everyone is always welcome. We hope you will be spiritually enriched by your worship visit

Grace; for your spirit October 24, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments.  Deuteronomy 32:9

Count the ways He is faithful.  He provides a way of escape, a way of salvation, strength, reward, crown of life, is always faithful, just, right, never lies, and His purpose never changes.  The only way to violate that covenant is by our unfaithfulness, never His.  As Isaiah stated, "The Lord hand is not so short that it cannot save; nor is His ear so dull that it cannot hear. But  your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear."  Come on back,  He is waiting faithfully.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 23, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases to be, for the faithful disappear from among the sons of men.  Psalm 12:1

There may be a number of situations where we might cry out to the Lord for help.  If we were sick, suffered the loss of a loved one, lost our house, lost our job, or experienced a painful separation, but is any spiritual concerns on that list?  As we witness the godly and faithful disappearing, see churches closing, and feel faint of spirit ourselves, will we cry to the Lord for help?  When the faithful disappear, the whole world suffers.  Let's be part of the solution. May we all begin to cry out,  "Help, Lord!"

Monday, October 21, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 22, 2013

Grace for your spirit
My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin, and if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.  I John 2:1

We all sin and come short of the glory of God.  That sin will separate us from God and we need someone to bring us back together with God.  Jesus is our savior, our mediator, our propitiation, and our advocate with the Father.  It is spiritual suicide to stand before God without such an advocate.  As the old saying goes, "One who decides to be his own lawyer, has a fool for a client."  Someday we will all stand before God to give an account of our lives.  We will then know the real value of Jesus as our advocate.  Let's try not to irritate Him too much now.  We might even go for doing the things that please Him.

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 21, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Simon answered and said, "Master, we have worked hard all night and caught nothing, but I will do as You say and let down the nets."  Luke 5:5

Simon Peter set a very important precedent for us all with his statement and action.  Although they had been unsuccessful, he was willing to do it again with the Lord's direction and blessing.  The Bible gives us many directions that may seem wrong to us at first.  What should our response be?  "We will do as you say Lord."  "You know more about it that we do". On this occasion, Peter followed the Lord's direction and ended up with more fish than he could pull in.  Let's search the scriptures and change our course to God's direction.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 18, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.  Jeremiah 33:3

Suddenly it seems that most everyone has an overwhelming desire to be connected.  Cellphones, text messages, facebook, twitter and the like, is consuming our lives.  Some never take their eyes off their mobile devices, even to drive or walk.  We have the need to share our innermost thoughts and want to be "liked".  How much better we would all be if we would turn those connection desires to God.  God has supplied us with a "heavenly mobile device", in the form of prayer.  Our constant connection with God will really help us, plus don't have to beg Him to "like us", and "be our friend".

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 17, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cummin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law; justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.  Matthew 23:23

The Pharisees at the time of Jesus perfected empty religion.  They didn't change because they felt everything they did was perfectly right. They kept laws down to tithing the herbs of their gardens, but their hearts were evil.  The weightier provision of the law was doing what was right, having mercy on weak, and being faithful in all things. Sometimes we imitate the Pharisees in our churches too.  We select and perfect a few rules, but fail to care about doing right, extending mercy, and being faithful.  If anyone calls us Pharisees, we better take it seriously

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 16, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And Jesus was saying to them, "Truly I say to you, there are some of those who are standing her who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power. 
Mark 9:1

This statement by Jesus certainly narrows down the time frame on the coming of His kingdom.  Daniel 2 revealed that His kingdom would be established in the days of the Romans kings, and this was that time. Later in Colossians one, God's word reveal that when we are redeemed, we are transferred into the kingdom of His dear Son.  Just a short time after this statement, they were able to see His kingdom come with power on the day of Pentecost.  The believers didn't debate the coming of His kingdom, they just enjoyed it.  Let's start enjoying it too.

Monday, October 14, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 15, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction    I Thessalonians 5:12

On our spiritual trip, do we know who is driving our car and where they are going?  Whenever we get into a vehicle with anyone, we are putting our lives into their hands.  Do we use any judgment when we make those choices?  We've all probably rode with someone, and made a decision never to do that again.  It is even more important that we use discernment on our spiritual journeys.  When we are fortunate enough to be traveling with people of wisdom and knowledge, let's appreciate them.  When we notice that the devil is our driver, let's get out as soon as possible.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 11, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties and abominable idolatries.   I Peter 4:3

When we become Christians, it is time for our lists and lusts to change. Do our lists make provision for our lusts, or our commitment to God? Too often, we worship on Sunday, but our lists for Monday contain only the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes,  and the boastful pride of life. It takes real effort to transform, but we are a little too lazy to get that done.  What is controlling our lives?  If it is lists, lusts, and laziness, isn't it time to put those in our past?  Let's start a spiritual list, and put Jesus first in our schedules.

Grace for your spirit October 10, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord.  I Corinthians 11:27

The question is often asked, "Who is worthy to participate in the Lord's supper, or communion?"  Certainly no one is worthy on their own merit, until we are made righteous by the blood of Jesus. Christians, who judge His body rightly, are invited guests at the Lord's table.  This verse is not really about our worthiness, but more about our worthy manner.  What are we thinking?  What is our mind centered on?  The worthy manner is the way we participate.  Every Christian must self evaluate every time, to keep our manner worthy.  It will keep us from being weak, sick, and asleep spiritually

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 9, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Greet every saint in Christ Jesus.  The brethren who are with me greet you.  All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household.  Philippians 4:21-22

As we follow the journeys of the disciples in the Bible, we can see the importance of close fellowship.  Several times Paul referred to greeting one another with a holy kiss.  The first century churches were lonely outposts in a pagan world.  Paul wrote these words from his Roman imprisonment.  Can you imagine his needs and those disciples who were in Caesar's house?  Many Christians today living in this pagan world are also lonely outposts, in dire need of fellowship.  Our warm and open greeting of one another, may be the most important part of our worship

Monday, October 7, 2013

Grace fory our spirit October 8, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and his ear attend to their prayer.  I Peter 3:12

Did you ever need something and nothing was open?  That never happens with God.  He is not only always open, but ready, willing, and able to help.  James wrote, "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much" When we connect with God through Jesus Christ, we can be sure that God is watching and listening.  How much more powerful that can be when the church assembles and joins together in those prayers.  Let's not take our prayer times in worship for granted.  There is great power in those assemblies.

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 7, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the Lord and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel. Ezra 7:10

Ezra had been a great task for the Lord and His people.  After 70 years in Babylonian captivity, Ezra was called to lead God's back to Israel and reestablish them in their homeland.  Had the people learned their lessons in captivity?  Their ignorance and rebellion against God's laws were still evident.  Ezra was shocked at the unfaithfulness of God's people and he felt a personal responsibility to make a difference, and he did.  Are we ever shocked at the unfaithfulness of God's people?  Do we feel any responsibility to make a difference?  It begins where Ezra began.  May we have the motivation to set our heart on studying, practicing, and teaching God's law and love

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 4, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.  I Peter 1:13

As we walk the Christian life, we are easily distracted from the great tasks we have before us.  It is hard to turn from the lusts of the world and fix our lives completely on Jesus Christ.  We must be sober in spirit, and ready for action.  What kind of action figure are we today? Kids play with action figures like G.I. Joe, Power Rangers, and Transformers.  On the other end of action figures are Barbie, Ken, My little mermaid, and my little pony.  Are we transformed, filled with power, and ready for battle with the Devil, or we concerned with our hair and what we will wear? Let's prepare for battle.  That's what God calls us to do.

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 3, 2013

Grace for your spirit
It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, because that is the end of every man, and the living takes it to heart.  Ecclesiastes 7:2


Do we gain more insights in winning or losing?  While we are feasting and celebrating, we seldom look within to see what we need to improve.  In times of loss, we often gain a new prospective on the changes we need to make.  A sports team may play a lousy game, but if they win by won point they celebrate all the way home.  Another day they may play well but lose by one point, and the trip home is silent. The next time we find ourselves in a house of mourning, may we learn how to take the lessons to heart.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 2, 2013

Grace for your spirit
So Peter seeing him said to Jesus, "Lord, and what about this man?"  Jesus said to him, "If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?  You follow Me!"  John 21:21-22

This was Peter's response when Jesus told him to follow.  Peter did not say O.K. or I will, or You can count on me. He took his eyes off Jesus and looked at John, saying, "what about this man?"  We can only assume what Peter was thinking.  Would he have to go alone? Would he have to be better than others?  Was he already good enough to have options?  Peter must have forgotten that when you take your eyes off Jesus, you will sink.  When we read the words of Jesus to deny self, take up our cross and follow Him, what do we think?  What about the rest of the church?  Wrong answer.  We need to fix our eyes on Jesus and say "Yes!"

Monday, September 30, 2013

Grace for your spirit October 1, 2013

Grace for your spirit
She said to her husband, "Behold now, I perceive that this is a holy man of God passing by us continually.  II Kgs 4:9

This story is about a woman of Shunem that was fortunate enough to be near the great prophet Elisha.  By what she saw and heard about him, she perceived that he was a man of God.  That perception led her to take action to provide for his needs and help him in his journey. She served wanting nothing, but received many things.  From that day forward, whenever anything asked how she was doing, the answer was always the same,  "It is well."  Read her whole story in II Kings 4. When we perceive we are around a faithful servant of God, may our perceptions be turned into action as well.  That service will always bear fruit for good in our lives. 

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 30, 2013

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

The Word of God is a two edged sword that cuts both ways. It cuts into the willing and the unwilling.  When the thoughts and intentions of our hearts are revealed, it can be a glorious epiphany and the opportunity to repent.  It can also take our peace from us, when we reject the word.  It cuts both ways.  That is why Jesus revealed in Matthew 10, when He said He did not come to bring peace but a sword.   Whether His sword brings us peace or not, is up to us.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 27, 2013

Grace for your spirit
But He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan!  You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's."  Matthew 16:23

Talk about a spiritual roller coaster ride.  A moment before this, Jesus had just given Peter a blessing for his understanding about the Christ.  At that moment Peter had his mind on godly things, but look how fast his focus changed.  When Peter heard something he didn't like and would affect him personally, he started to rebuke Jesus.  Peter went from blessed to Satan and a stumbling block is a flash.  When we put Jesus first in our lives, it will help us to put first in our thoughts too.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 26, 2013

Grace for your spirit
He who goes to and fro weeping, carrying his bag of seed, shall indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.  Psalm 126:6

This is a truth that applies to almost everything in life.  Some people condense it to, "No pain, no gain."  Whatever our pursuits in life, the key to success is hard work and preparation.  It may be training in sports, or advanced education in vocation.  Everything from farming to spiritual victory, takes sowing and reaping.  When we return rejoicing in victory, the result of our weeping will be evident to all.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 25, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry.  Because you have rejected the word of teh Lord, He has also rejected you from being king.  I Samuel 15:23

This was the fate for King Saul.  He refused to follow the directions of God, and decided to do things his own way.  His rebellion and insubordination was compare to divination, iniquity, and idolatry.  We normally don't put rebellion in the same category as witchcraft and idolatry, but God sees it that way.  This coming Lord's day, we will all be worshiping at some altar. Will it be the altar of God, or will we go our own way?  Will we be at the altar of bed, the altar of picnic, the altar of TV, or at the altar of our own lusts?  Which God will we choose?  Saul chose his own altar, and he lost it all. 

Monday, September 23, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 24, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Concerning him we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing.  Hebrews 5:11

When we become dull of hearing, seeing, and understanding, often we are unable to learn the things we need to know.  This dull spirit can keep us from growing as a Christian.  If we grow, it is the solid food of His Word that helps us to  discern good from evil.  Like when are natural senses are dulled by alcohol or drugs, our spiritual senses can be dulled the things of the world.  Let's pray that our spiritual senses will be sharpened so we can pursue the path God has for us.  Hearing, seeing, and believing.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 23,2013

Grace for your spirit
And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.  John 1:14

We can see God and man in Jesus Christ.  He was born of woman, but fathered by the Holy Spirit.  He was hungry,  but he could turn stones into bread.  He was thirsty, but he could turn water into wine. He rowed in a boat, but also walked on water.  He was tempted in everything, but never sinned.  He sat in the judgment hall of men, and at the right hand of God.  He saved others, but sacrificed Himself.  He died for our sins, but rose again for our justification.  He bridged every gap between God and man to build a bridge.  Let's walk over it into the promised land.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 20, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God  Hebrews 3:12

Maybe you've heard the expression; "It's not the fall that kills us, it is the sudden stop."  When unbelief comes into our lives, we may turn loose of the hand of God and fall away.  It may be a very long fall, and we may even get used to the falling.  We might start thinking the falling is nicer than our previous reality.  It is then that we need to remember that this fall won't last forever.  As we appear to fall farther away from God, actually our destiny is to fall into His hands on the day of judgment.  He is able to break our fall before we hit.  It is better to take His hand now, than to fall into them.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 19, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Therefore, my brethren, you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, so that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.  Romans 7:4

In this natural world, a bride leaves father and mother and cleaves to their bridegroom, and the two become one flesh.  If that union will be blessed with any children, they will come from the bride.  It is much like that in the spiritual world as well.  When we become Christians, we leave our old world behind, and are joined to our bridegroom, that is Jesus.  If spiritual children will come from that union, they will come from the bride, that is Christians.  The responsibility for reaching the lost and seeing them born again, is on the bride.  Go ye, means go me.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

grace for your spirit September 18, 2013

Grace for your spirit
In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.  
John 14:2

A lady made a request of her minister as she came close to her death. "Please bury me with a fork in my hand.  Whenever we had a dinner at the church, as they were cleaning the tables, someone would say, 'Save your fork, the best is yet to come.'"  From what she had read and sang about heaven, she was truly  convinced that the best was yet to come.  She wanted the fork in her hand to be a reminder to all who came to the funeral.  Christ was truly exalted in her life and her death. Let's keep our fork

Monday, September 16, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 17,2013

Grace for your spirit
For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare...But you know of his proven worth, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father.  Philippians 2:20+22

These words were written by the apostle Paul about Timothy.  It is evident that Timothy was available, reliable, and dependable.  When the scripture calls us to "walk worthy of our calling", it is literally a call to pull our own weight in the church.  It is nearly impossible for us to pull our own weight if no one knows if we will be there, and what we are willing to do.  Being unavailable, unreliable, and undependable, damages our service, our gifts, and our concern for others.  Let's all strive for the kindred spirit in Christ.

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 16, 2013

Grace for your spirit
Not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.  Hebrews 10:25

The question is often asked, "Can you be a Christian without attending worship services?"  Yes...but not a good one.  Can you be a husband, but never go home?  Yes....but not a good one.  It is very difficult to complete our circle of encouragement with an empty pew and an empty recliner.  May we quit asking what we have to do, and start enjoying what we get to do.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 13, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And even when I am old and gray O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come.  Psalm 71:18

Two commitments are important to a disciple of Christ.  To declare His strength and power to our generation and all who will follow.  The second is to do it without quitting.  We shouldn't be looking forward to our "retirement date", but rather praying for additional strength to declare the wisdom attained through study and life experience.  Let's commit to fulfill our ministry as long as the Lord give us that strength.

Grace for your spirit September 12, 2013

Grace for your spirit
And concerning you, my brethren, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another.  Romans 15:14

When the apostle Paul wrote these words to the church in Rome, he not met these people yet. This was the news that came to him as their faith was spread to others.  There at Rome, in one of the most difficult Christian outposts in the world, these people had risen to meet the challenges. These are the qualities of a church that can overcome any obstacle, and do God's will.  When people recognize that we are filled with goodness and knowledge, building one another up, we will be that light in a dark world.  Let that be our goal.  What have people heard about us?

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 11, 2013

Grace for your spirit
It will come about that the rod of the man whom I choose will sprout.  Thus I will lessen from upon Myself the grumblings of the sons of Israel, who are grumbling against you.  Numbers 17:5

At the beginning of the wilderness wanderings, there was a great controversy about who should be in charge.  It caused the people to grumble to Moses and to God. God put it to rest with a test.  Each tribe put a wooden rod into the tent of meeting overnight.  In the morning Aaron's rod, of the tribe of Levi had sprouted leaves.  The Levites were then the priests, and Aaron's family the high priest.  In there assembly and ours, there must be authority and leadership being led by God.  With such good examples, we all can move forward doing the will of God and pleasing Him.  Let's get in line.

Monday, September 9, 2013

Grace for your spirit September 10, 2013

Grace for your spirit
For I will not presume to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me, resulting in the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed.  Romans 15:18

How would we define great gospel preaching?  The apostle Paul defined it as preaching Christ only, and how He has changed his life,resulting in the conversions of others.  Academic preaching without any change in our lives, or practicing it to bring others to Jesus, will be hollow to listeners.  Let's not only teach the truth, but how it is working in our lives. Let's leave politics, and pet peeves for the corner coffee shop.