e-news for the week of 4-3-2011

First – from the leadership of the church, we want to thank the Hockman/Tamerius class as well as the high school and junior high school classes for changing worship hours to help with space during third service. Note that third service will “feel” different because around 100 people won’t be in that service. Second service will also “feel” different because around 100 people will now be in that service.

Intentionally striving to connect people with God. Thanks for your willingness to try to help.

Next:

Nike says, “Just do it.”

Does your head/pride/intellect ever run contrary to the truth, promises, and even obedience toward God?

Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness. (Romans 4:3)

Note he didn’t believe “in” God. He believed God. He took Him at His word. He had a relationship with the Lord so that when the Lord spoke – he believed Him. Abraham didn’t construct a rationale of “why nots” or “why he shouldn’t.” He did not say, “I don’t believe IN that.” NO. He believed Him. He took God at His word. He simply did whatever God asked him. At times, what God asked of him was near lunacy ( e.g. – sacrifice your son). Yet, he believed Him.

How about your worship of God?

Do the circumstances of life impede your ability to see God? Do you let people get in the way?

I’ve seen people worship God in the depths as their entire world is collapsing in and around them. I’ve also seen people get snagged in their worship over hang nails. Issues of pride, selfishness, petty issues, and self gratification (I’m not getting anything out of this rather than offering self to God) can get in the way of worshiping God. Yet, God is on His throne.

This Sunday we are going to “Worship in the midst” as we study Revelation 13:11 – 14:20. This text includes the number of the beast: 666, the Grapes of Wrath, and a lot of intensity. What do the saints do when the forces of evil erupt?

Let’s all strive to become more childlike and simply believe God. Let’s all simply strive to worship God regardless of the circumstance. Let’s just do it.

This week you’ll receive a mailing connected to our Easter offering. Most of all, pray about the work of God that is going on at Forum and around the world. Realize that giving helps to further His work.

Pray about someone you can invite to attend church with you this Sunday and especially at Easter.

Scott