Matthew 12:36-37 is a great verse to keep in mind as we prepare to open our mouth. Words are powerful gifts and weapons! The same mouth that can build up and encourage another, can rip someone apart. Words often stay with us for years, as we work mentally to overcome the insensitive words that someone has shared with us. Our inward outlook of who we are, are often shaped by what others say to us. We need to remember and understand that we will eventually give account for the things we say and how we impact those around us. There is a good reason that James tells us in 1:19-20, “… let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath, for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” We need to learn to think before we speak. Is what I have to say necessary, is it spoken in love, is it designed to build up? Learn to evaluate your words before you let them escape your mouth. … READ MORE

In 1 Kings 5:5 Solomon “purposed” to do the task of building a house for “the name of the Lord.” A place where people could go to and find out who God is. It is essential that we have a place where we know we can learn of the Lord. This is not a place where we might run into God (beach, golf course, sporting event, etc.), but a place where you go for the purpose of understanding who God is and what He desires of us as one who follows Him. That place is the local church. This gives a fucus for ministry, and a goal for our attendance. People by nature gt tired, and it is important that we understand the reason behind our service and attendance in order to persevere through the tough times of our lives. When we serve with a purpose (bringing Glory to God). We serve with more excitement and enthusiasm when we know what we are attempting to attain. To have a reason for our planning gives it direction, and with direction comes the ability to evaluate whether we are accomplishing our goal. Business is not a virtue, but working to the glory … READ MORE

One of the hardest things we do as a follower of Jesus Christ, is determine which church to attend. There are so many churches to choose from, and so many denominations, and often we wonder which one is correct. Today, people look for many things: One of the buzzwords is “Fellowship, caring, and sharing” Problem is that you can find this anywhere where a group meets. Others say, “A place alive, exciting, enthusiastic, and entertaining. This doesn’t limit to the church either, I can go to Cedar Point and find that, and I am not sure that a church can compete with places like that. Still others say, “Fin a church with a “good preacher” Problem: define “good” Someone who is interesting to listen to (define that). Comedians are interesting to listen to, and they may make us laugh, but what have they done to help us face our circumstances? The ride may be fun, but our lives have not been changed. So, what is the answer? The bottom line is that there is only one thing that really matters. The answer is: How do they handle the Word of God. We go to church to bring glory to the … READ MORE