828 Church

Contentment - Freedom from worry or restlessness: - A peaceful perspective.

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13 NLT - Chillin like a villain. Roman prison - Carcer (Latin)

Contentment is not a decision to be self-sufficient, but rather a condition found when the soul rests in the sufficiency of God.  (No matter the conditions or circumstance)

Five Intentional Choices that lead to a Life of Contentment

Choice # 1 - Avoid Envy and Comparison - If I just had… I would be happy. No you wouldn’t!

Covetousness - A desire for what others have. - You must not covet your neighbors… Exodus 20:17 

For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Ephesians 5:5 ESV

High place (covet) / Alter (sacrifice , contentment) / to the Idol of stuff, status, etc… little g god!?

Destiny is sacrificed and contentment dies on the altar of envy and disobedient ambition.

A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot. Proverbs 14:30 ESV

Comparison creates an unreasonable discontentedness that has a way of coaxing us out of the will of God. 

Choice # 2 - Embrace your assignment. (Love it and / to live it)

Submission to the purpose and plan of God is critical to a life of contentment. 

Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT

I’m not saying you’ll never get tired running your race, but you’ll die trying to run someone else’s.

In it for the coffee not the cup…

Choice # 3 - Praise - (Be grateful to God for the life you have)

Gratitude disarms discontentment. - - My mom!

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thes 5:18 NLT 

Praise is a pathway to contentment. - - Praise on the inside will manifest on the outside.

Choice # 4 - Do your best with what ever you have.  

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Colossians 3:23 NLT

Choosing Contentment Choice # 5 - Trust - - It’s an inside job! 

Contentment is only found in a trusting surrendered relationship with Jesus

A greedy man stirs up strife, but the one who trusts in the LORD will be enriched. Proverbs 28:25 ESV

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT - POEM

Contentment is not only God’s will, it’s God’s gift to all who will receive it! 

True godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 1 Timothy 6:6 NLT - Granny Mary’s house 

Blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence.

They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 NLT

How to Trust God Directive # 1 - Follow the Instructor and His Instruction.

Blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice. Luke 11:28 NLT

More than reading or hearing the instructions, following the instructions is what makes the difference. 

Faith is for believing God, not bossing God! 

Believing backed up by obeying is trusting!

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household. Acts 16:31 NKJV

God must be where we build, and determine with what and how we build our life of faith. 

How to Trust God Directive # 2 - Go all in!

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT 

Commitment is the bridge between purpose and passion. - John Maxwell 

Passionate commitment to Jesus is punchy! 

Charisma will capture your attention but passion will captivate your heart.

How to Trust God Directive # 3 - Settle that the question is how you will follow God, not if. 

Moses gave the men these instructions as he sent them out to explore the land. Numbers 13:17 NLT

“We can’t go up against them! They are stronger than we are!” Numbers 13:3 NLT

We’re called navigate this life according to God’s will no matter what the opposition or obstacle! 

How to trust God Directive # 4 - Learn to right-size your problems.

We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. Next to them we felt like grasshoppers, and that’s what they thought, too!” Numbers 13:33 NLT

Two of the men who had explored the land, Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, tore their clothing. They said to all the people of Israel, “The land we traveled through and explored is a wonderful land! And if the LORD is pleased with us, he will bring us safely into that land and give it to us. It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey. Do not rebel against the LORD, and don’t be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the LORD is with us! Don’t be afraid of them!” Numbers 14:6-9 NLT

BT: Trust doesn’t require downsizing your difficulties, but rather right-sizing them against God!  

How to Trust God Directive # 5 - Look to God for Peace instead of Panic

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Isaiah 26:3 NLT

Peace is the fruit we find when we put our trust and hope in God. 

In your hearts revere Christ as Lord. 1 Peter 3:15 NIV - - It’s His church, not ours. - No good without Him! 

The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:26 ESV

When we exclude Jesus we set ourselves up for drama, disappointment, and ultimately disaster. 

Faith is neither dependent on, nor devoid of, empirical evidence. 

You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me. John 20:29 NLT

The decline of the New Atheists’ particular brand of hyperbolic anti-religious fervor does not necessarily signify a rise in religious faith or belief in God. - Alister McGrath (The Dawkins Delusion) 

We’re called to lean in and lead the way to Jesus.  

Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15 ESV

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. John 1:1-3 ESV

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 ESV

The presence of problems can never overpower the presence of Jesus.  

#SeeTheEmptyTomb

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESV

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 ESV

You see your regular failure, Jesus see’s your road to redemption. 

You see your consistent struggle, Jesus sees your willingness to fight and never give up!  

You see yourself as a chump challenged by brokenness you think you may never overcome.

Jesus sees you as champion who wins not only for you but for others! 

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 1 John 3:1 ESV

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2:4-5 ESV

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV

Jesus pursues us to love us.

The love of Jesus is the most obvious and consistent reality I’ve witnessed in this world. 

Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds.  

Psalm 36:5 NLT 

Through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see, such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together. Colossians 1:16-17 ESV 

Jesus holds everything in the universe and beyond together, including me and you. 

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NLT

Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. Psalm 139:7-10 ESV

The truth about Jesus, who He is and how He loves, is the most important truth that any human can ever know. 

POEM

Jesus

With us and for us

He finds us and binds us 

He holds us together with His love

He sees us and frees us

Never does He leave us

He heals us with power from above

No hope we have without Him

Never should we doubt Him

His fingerprints are everywhere we look

And even when wouldn’t trust Him

In fact our choices surely hurt Him

Still He gave His life, because that’s what it took

To forgive and to restore

To a place that’s better than before

Now graced to come into the presence of the King

Nothing we did to earn such grace

It was His choice, He made the space

Even when He knew we had no gift to bring

So now we give ourselves for others

Just like the Jesus our big brother 

Praying they will see Him in the love we show. 

May our journeys give Him glory

As He redeems our broken stories

So those who see will trust the Savior we now know

God’s gift of forgiveness is the doorway to restoring every other destiny He has for us. 

Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”  In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 ESV

Right standing and renewed relationship with God result from our putting our faith in Jesus.

I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten. Joel 2:25 ESV

God’s wills to restore every design and destiny He has for you. 

It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. Ephesians 1:11-12 MSG

Choosing God’s design and destiny is the best decision you’ve ever had the grace to make.

From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17 ESV - 

Restored destiny requires real repentance.

Repentance is a powerfully graced choice the enemy can’t cope with. 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Romans 12:1 ESV

Restored destiny requires surrendered and renewed ways of thinking, deciding and living.

Thus says the LORD: “Stand by the cross roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’ Jeremiah 6:16 ESV 

Diligence is crucial if we are going to follow God to destiny. 

Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23 NKJV

Even if you have God’s blessing and favor, you still have to choose it to walk in it.

It takes determination to faithfully become who God created you to be. 

Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 ESV

If you’re looking for a cheap easy way to be a disciple, you will not find it. Adrian Rogers

You were designed by God to know Him and to live the destiny He created for you.  

You didn’t choose me, I chose you, I put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil. As fruit bearers, whatever you ask the Father in relation to me, he gives you. John 15:16 MSG

You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 1:8 ESV

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 ESV

Growth and change are challenging, but exactly what God gives us the power to do.

Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 7:24-25 NLT 

We have that and then some! Look up! - Ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Romans 1:20 NLT

You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you! Jeremiah 32:17 NLT

Will power is limited, God’s power is not. 

When it comes to growth and change, connection to the power source is the most crucial factor!

By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 2 Peter 1:3 ESV

How to plug in!? - Submit! - - Give yourself completely to God.

Do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, “He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us”? But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:5-7 ESV

Submit - Resist - Overcome - Repeat!

Life is about learning to give everything to God one thing at a time!

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12:1 ESV

Surrender isn’t giving up on yourself, but giving yourself and your every attitude, decision, and destiny to God!  

My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine. Matthew 26:39 NLT 

The power to grow and change is a power we access when we give ourselves completely to God.

Even if we’re ready to change and grow, there will still be obstacles we have to overcome.

He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 ESV

I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. Psalm 18:29 NLT

Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.

When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:1-3 NLT

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21 ESV

Pain 

Pain is a hurdle that often keeps us from pursuing our potential for growth and change.

After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 1 Peter 5:10 ESV

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time. Psalm 34:18-19 NLT

People

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14 ESV

God directed boundaries are necessary for Godly behavior and breakthrough. 

Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20 NLT

Your friends are either obstacles or catalyst for the growth and change Jesus is working in your life.

Past 

Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God, truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 2:22-24 NLT

Pride

Pride can prevent even the most disciplined and successful person from being whole and free. 

Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him. Matthew 21:31-32 ESV

Perspective

Christianity is not a behavioral improvement program, but a choice to walk with and be like Jesus.

God created man in his own image. Genesis 1:27 NLT 

Growth and change are an opportunity to embody and become who God made you to be.

God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him. Romans 8:29 MSG

The daily goal of every God follower should be to get as close to, and be as much like, Jesus as possible.  

Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT

Change and growth are choices that we’re graced to choose. 

You must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 NLT

People who refuse to change and grow, will spend an entire life dying without ever really living.

We’re often ready for something to change, but not as often willing to be the thing that changes.

Recognizing the need to change.

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

Do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? Romans 2:4 ESV

For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 ESV

Willing to Change

Jesus said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God. Luke 16:15 ESV

Everyone struggles with something, but those who justify nullify the grace God gives to overcome.

Choose to Change

With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. Ephesians 4:17-18 MSG

They can’t think straight anymore. Feeling no pain, they let themselves go in sexual obsession, addicted to every sort of perversion. Ephesians 4:19 MSG

“Make it up on your own” morality has led to next level desperation in the hearts of people.

But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God, truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:20-24 NLT

Listen and Align

Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 NLT 

“But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?” Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. John 8:32-33 NLT 

Self-deception and denial never lead to deliverance.

Ready for Redemption

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace. Ephesians 1:7 ESV 

Jesus always provides the grace for people in process to choose repentance and redemption.

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV

Redemption makes those things that once seemed impossible, supernaturally natural.

The heart that is ready to change will be flooded with grace beyond description, strong enough to overcome any barrier to change and breakthrough! 

We’re so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!

---- SUNDAY'S NOTES ----

There is value in moments for remembering!

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Psalm 103:2 ESV

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases. Lamentations 3:22 NLT

We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT

His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness oh God. Lamentations 3:23 ESV

Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10 ESV

If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. You will experience all these blessings if you obey the LORD your God. Deuteronomy 28:1 NLT

Make this new year about what God wants and wills.

He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 2 Corinthians 9:10 ESV

Sow what you want to see grow in your heart and life.

Together.

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT

We’re only better together if we’re together with God.

Get rid of the baggage and carry what counts together!

The key to carrying what you carry well, is to carry what you carry with Christ.

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For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 NLT

Christmas doesn’t have to be merry from an earthly perspective to be amazing!

(Linus is queue)

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:8-14 KJV

Christmas is Merry because Christ amazing.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. Psalms 37:7 ESV

But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Romans 5:25 ESV

Coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. Luke 2:38 ESV

There’s no reason to continue waiting for what God has already given.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11 ESV

Merry, Godly, Graced, Christ centered Christmas.

At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Luke 2:25 -26 NLT

It’s those who are looking that invariably and inevitably see Jesus. 

That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. Luke 2:27-29 NLT

Faithfulness will set you up to see Jesus 

The proofs that Jesus is real are powerful and yet inadequate without relationship.

I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel! Luke 2:30-32 NLT

The peace that comes from knowing you’re forgiven is priceless!

Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.” Luke 2:33-35 NLT

Our destiny will be determined by what we believe about and do with the Jesus. 

What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds, for their ancestors also praised false prophets. Luke 6:26 NLT - - He is either a liar and lunatic, or the Way truth and Life… 

You can’t just tip your hat to Jesus, you’ve got to bow a knee and see Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Luke 2:28:32 NLT 

We’re so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!

---- SUNDAY'S NOTES ----

But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. Micah 5:2 ESV

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2 ESV

Jesus has always made Himself easy to find for those who are looking for Him!

And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:8-11 ESV

Jesus, the baby in the manger, was our Messiah on mission from the very beginning.

The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw His glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son… John 1:14 MSG

For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. Luke 19:10 NLT

If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? Matthew 18:12 NLT

You will always be found by Jesus if you choose to look to Him.

Finding the missing is our mission too!

As for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, That I may tell of all Your works. Psalm 73:28 NASB

That God would choose to be with us in every season and circumstance is Christmas’s greatest gift.

ESV

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To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church

I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess, happy that you're again showing such strong concern for me. Not that you ever quit praying and thinking about me. You just had no chance to show it. Actually, I don't have a sense of needing anything personally. I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. Philippians 4:10-13 MSG

Gratitude is a choice that improves your perspective in seasons of prosperity or problem. 

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV

Do everything without complaining and arguing. Philippians 2:14 NLT 

X + (-Y) = Z or 10 + (-10) = 0  

X - (-Y) = Z or 10 - (-10) = 20

A complaining life is a discontented life!

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. Psalm 136:1 ESV

Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? Romans 2:4 ESV

It happened that as he made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” Luke 17:11-13 MSG

He looked at them and said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed of their leprosy. Luke 17:14 NLT

One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus’ feet, so grateful. He couldn’t thank him enough, and he was a Samaritan. Luke 17:15-16 MSG

Jesus said, “Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? Can none be found to come back and give glory to God except this outsider?” Then he said to him, “Get up. On your way. Your faith has healed and saved you.” Luke 17:17-19 MSG

Blessed people are not always grateful, but grateful people are always blessed. 

The power of gratitude is found in it’s ability to connect the graced with both the gift, and the giver.

Complacency, comparison and complaining, will all cause you to miss deep connection with Jesus.

Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe. Hebrews 12:28 ESV 

Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them. John 6:11 ESV

And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. John 11:41 ESV

And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks… Luke 22:17 ESV

We’re so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!

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Special Guest Pastor Craig Johnson - Lakewood Church

“Who Told You That”

Some of us are living with shame that God never put on us.

You have to believe what God says about you.

I DECLARE that God has a great plan for my life. He is directing my steps. And even though I may not always understand how, I know my situation is not a surprise to God. He will work out every detail to my advantage. In His perfect timing, everything will turn out right. This is my declaration.

2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 (AMP)

As you live in close contact with Me, the Light of My Presence filters through you to bless others. Your weakness and woundedness are the openings through which the Light of the knowledge of My Glory shines forth. My strength and power show themselves most effective in your weakness.

Get in agreement with God and start believing what He says about you!

We’re so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!

---- SUNDAY'S NOTES ----

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42 NLT

The issue wasn’t with what Mary was doing, it was with what she was leaving undone.

So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NLT

But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” Luke 10:40 NLT

When we work outside of the presence of God, our bodies grow weary and our hearts grow bitter.

His presence is a gift. You can’t earn it, but you can choose it, and be changed by it!

Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:42 NLT

When we choose to sit in God’s presence, our souls can hear and see the Savior redeeming our stories and directing our steps.

Godly rest produces restoration which leads to renewed passion for His work in our world.

When Martha got word that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him. But Mary stayed in the house. John 11:20 NLT

Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.” John 11:21-22 NLT

When we choose God’s presence in difficulty, we find our Savior who gives us hope, help and healing.

Jesus told her, “Your brother will rise again.” “Yes,” Martha said, “he will rise when everyone else rises, at the last day.” Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?” “Yes, Lord,” she told him. “I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God.” John 11:23-27 NLT

Choosing God’s presence will always increase our faith and empower our faithfulness.

When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within him, and he was deeply troubled. “Where have you put him?” he asked them. They told him, “Lord, come and see.” Then Jesus wept. John 11:33-35 NLT

We aren’t meant to miss on God’s presence in either our stillness or our busyness.

Jesus was still angry as he arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. “Roll the stone aside,” Jesus told them. But Martha, the dead man’s sister, protested, “Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible.” John 11:38-39 NLT

Choosing God’s presence over personal comfort is a front row seat to His miraculous work and will.

Jesus responded, “Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believe?” So they rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me.” Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in grave-clothes, his face wrapped in a head-cloth. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him go!” John 11:40-44 NLT

It’s through the rhythms of rest and action that we experience the richness of God’s presence.

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We’re so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!

---- SUNDAY'S NOTES ----

Prioritizing strategic connections is crucial to God’s work and will being accomplished in your life.

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. Proverbs 13:20 ESV

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important. Galatians 6:2-3 NLT

This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. John 15:12 NLT

Clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:14 NLT

A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and will sing it back to you when you’ve forgotten the words.

I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 NLT

God’s plan for your life is for you to know Him deeply, and walk with Him daily.

Our relationship with God should be real, reverent, raw and redemptive.

The more time you spend with God, the more accurately and readily you will recognize His voice.

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. John 15:7 NKJV

If you abide in me and my words abide in you, you’ll want what I want you to want and I’ll give you what you want because I wanted you to want it!

Our connection to God makes us good together, and our being good together is critical to our being connected to God!

He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. Colossians 1:17-18 ESV

May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6 NLT

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Download the 828 Church app!

To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church