The World would like us to focus on a number of things this time of year, Spending, gifts, charity, and many things that distract from the true meaning of the year. Yet if it weren’t for the fact that God intervened in the affairs of men, we would be doomed in light of the present, and hopeless in light of eternity. So how do we gain the right focus in our lives? Let me suggest three ways:1. Remember: How you were saved and how Christ has changed your life. Hebrews 12:2 tells us to “look unto Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith.” Keep in mind that Jesus had you in mind when He came to this earth to die, and you will be a lot less likely to look down on someone else.2. Renew: your Love for Jesus. Revelation 2:5 reminds us that we need to think on the things that drew you to Jesus in the first place, and let the Holy Spirit fill you with a renewed sense of love and joy in Him. Make the determination that you will spend more time with Him in the Word and prayer.3. Recommit: to serving the … READ MORE

Thanksgiving is an attitude of the heart, that should be manifest every day of our lives, and celebrated at least once a year. Paul reminds us of 5 specific elements of joy as it is related to others. We must remember that life is spent accumulating things, but the only possession that is eternal is relationships. Let me share with you a couple things for you to be grateful for as you prepare for Thanksgiving on Thursday.1. The joy of Recollection (Philippians 1:3) Having a genuine desire to remember and focus on the goodness, kindness, and successes of others does not involve denying their weaknesses and shortcomings but rather looking past them. The Holy Spirit often prompts us to appreciate other’s love, generosity, and compassion and to forget the rest.2. The joy of intercession (Philippians 1:4) Possessing God-given joy should lead us not to focus on ourselves, but even in the midst of pain or difficult circumstances we should be focused on those we are grateful for. It is our privilege to pray for those that God has brought into our lives.3. The joy of Participation (Philippians 1:5) This is not a natural, man-made fellowship but one sovereignly designed and … READ MORE

The missing ingredient in this country and in the hearts of people is gratitude. You look in the stores, and immediately following Halloween, the marketing people put up the Christmas sales, this week the most anticipated day, is not Thursday, it is Friday’s black Friday’s sales. In the book of Philippians Paul addresses this great concept. Gratitude leads to a joy that should be an unwavering constant in a Spirit filled life, not a transient emotional feeling that comes and goes depending on circumstances. In Philippians 1:3-8 The apostle gives 5 specific elements of his Spirit-engendered joy as it related to other believers. As we prepare for Thanksgiving we need to consider these elements. Let me simply share those elements for your consideration. He speaks of the joy of Recollection in verse 3; The joy of Intercession in verse 4; The joy of participation in verse 5; the joy of Anticipation in verse 6; and the joy of Affection in verses 7-8. As we approach Thanksgiving this week perhaps we need to be challenged to think back and be encouraged by the people God has brought into our lives.… READ MORE