Acts 2:42 Mens Fellowship
“Moses said to the LORD, "Then the Egyptians will hear about it! By your power you brought these people up from among them. And they will tell the inhabitants of this land about it. They have already heard that you, O LORD, are with these people and that you, O LORD, have been seen face to face, that your cloud stays over them, and that you go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.” Numbers 14:13-14 NIV
Two hundred-thirty-two years ago, as a group of respectable colonist were declaring their independence from the rule of men; while at the same time declaring their dependence upon God. Within the text of arguably the most famous document ever written by man, these men were declaring that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights…” Each one of them held and professed by this document that their strength came not from themselves, but instead by their unity with God.
Many examples can be found within the speeches and writings of our Founding Fathers. One of these is our first President George Washington who said in his Farewell Address on September 17, 1796: "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible". And almost twenty years earlier prayed before his soldiers at Valley Forge with these words: "Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great Creator of heaven and earth, and the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven in pity and compassion upon me Thy servant, who humbly prostrates myself before Thee."
Yet each week we are not here to speak of politics, nor focus on the documents written by the human hand. And today I do not believe we should change course. Yet from the testimony of our Founding Fathers, I believe there is a very important lesson we can draw upon and take with us as Christians. For how our Founding Fathers viewed unity and cherished the strength of unity with God is a great message to how we should be living our lives.
For God works through people and uses them in their own unique way to reflect His glory. And when He shines himself upon a group of people, each one of them is unified by Him. There is a bond, a brotherhood, which exists and can never be taken away by human hands.
Look at the verse mentioned at the opening of this email from the book of Numbers. Moses knew that God was with them, visibly seen by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Moses also recognized that the Lord was not just within him as the leader of the Israelites. But instead Moses knew the Lord could be found within each of them and made mention of His presence by saying that He has “been seen face to face.”
We have been unified by the ‘blood of the Lamb’ and are now one. His glory can be seen within each one of us when we are filled by the Holy Spirit and are within His will. The same light that shines from one believer can be found in the life of another Christian brother.
This fact was emphasized by Jesus when He prayed to the Heavenly Father that we may be all as one in the gospel of John:
“…that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17:21 NIV
All prayers I believe are answered; and there is very little doubt that the prayer that Jesus prayed here was certainly answered. Therefore it must be so that all of us who believe in Jesus are not only one with one another, but are also one with the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Brothers this unity therefore gives us much power as Christians. We can move forward in confidence knowing that God will be within each one of us to give us strength. No rule of man can hold us away from the promises which have been made to us by God. The Founding Fathers I believe understood this which is why they deferred to Him in the most important document of this nation’s birth.
But none of this means anything unless we understand it ourselves. We must commit to this understanding and realize that the unity we share with God is something special, something of truth, and something there to strengthen us. Let us rest our minds on this unity on Friday and pray that we can understand its fullest meaning in each one of our lives…
Prayer requests
Ramon – pray for Brett S who has a liver disease which is progressing and needs treatment or possible transplant
Ernie – pray for wife who is having some health problems with her pancreas and arthritis
Paul – pray that he will find more time with God in His Word
Kevin – pray for wife that she may find happiness, pray for the Middle East and all of the difficulties they are having
Steve S – pray God will guide me in my relationships to fulfill/recognize my purpose as one of His disciples
Greg – pray for cousin who is having kidney problems, pray for a good time in Hawaii
David – pray that he will continue to dive into the Word deeper each day
Bill – pray that he makes the right decision regarding his prostate cancer, pray that the doctors will continue to give him good treatment, pray for wife which is dealing with fibromyalgia
Mark – pray for our finances as we continue to reduce our bills, pray for the continued strengthening of this group and that it may continue to do His will
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Tim – pray that he may be faithful in all things according to His will
Bill – pray for God’s spirit to bless all of the kid’s in the Royal Family kid’s camp and to support the counselors
Kelcy – pray for continued blessing and the blessing of his upcoming vacation time
Vince – pray that he can find a decent job, pray for Pastor Grant’s wife to be healed, pray for strength and peace for Dave
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, July 2nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (I will most likely be leading the group again unless something comes up with the family)
Wednesday, July 9th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, July 16th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NKJV
Monday, June 30, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Weekly Message / Prayer Request
Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“The Lord says to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool." The Lord sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. Rule in the midst of your enemies! Your people will offer themselves freely on the day of your power, in holy garments; from the womb of the morning, the dew of your youth will be yours.” Psalms 110”1-3 ESV
Each day we find ourselves locked in the battle.
At times it is not easy to remain focused on the finish line because the road is littered with many troubles that each one of us must navigate. Yet there is a certainty about the journey because it will ultimately take each one of us to a particular destination that none of us can escape. For some of us, the destination we will ultimately arrive at will have the taste of victory with our Heavenly Father; while for others the destination will be one of great anguish.
So we live our lives within the decisions that we all make. It is the place where we find choices that may either lead us to obeying God or choices that will lead us away from God. The decision is ours because it falls within the freedom that God has given each one of us. It is called our “free will”.
But how glorious it will be for those who have chosen the Lord!!
The Psalmist here describes the battle array of those who have come on behalf of the Lord. It is not an army of conscription or an army made up of those who were forced to come. Instead the army which is described here in this Psalm is one that is made up of those who willingly and freely came to serve. It was an army of those who made the decision to stand beside the Lord…
There is a very important note here by how it describes those who offer themselves freely unto the Lord—dressed in ‘holy garments’. We cannot miss this description because these garments represent many decisions, many choices, by those who belong to God, who have accepted Christ, to live a life that is holy. Not by the standards of this world, but by the standards of the one and only true God.
God describes to us what type of attitudes will characterize the lives of those who belong to God in the epistle of Galatians: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 ESV These are the standards that God desires us to possess; and what is great about each one of these is that they can only exist because of the “free will” that He has given us.
From this gift to choose, comes the ultimate choice which must be made in every decision that we make. Will we make decisions that lead us to giving our lives up as living sacrifices, so that we may stand beside the Lord on that glorious day; or will we make decisions that are based upon selfish motivations, which can only lead us to ultimate destruction and eternal separation from our Lord.
In Second Corinthians, the Apostle Paul describes the choice many churches in Macedonia made even though they were under severe affliction:
“And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will.” 2 Corinthians 8:5 NIV
The churches in Macedonia gave themselves first to the Lord before they made any other decision. They literally held nothing back because they felt they all belonged first to God. This completely caught the Apostle Paul off-guard, but their heart was completely with the Lord which is why they first went to Him as living sacrifices…
My prayer is that all of us can do a little better with the choices that each one of us make. I know that I am the first one who needs prayer because I am on the frontline as well in the decision making process. Many choices that I make are not God-centered and fall short of what God desires.
But I believe there is much meaning in the closing statement of verse three here in Psalms 110 when it says: “from the womb of the morning, the dew of your youth will be yours.” Because each one of us has been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb on that Sunday morning when Christ rose from the dead. For His resurrection came from the womb of the new-birth. All our sins have been washed away.
Therefore do not fear your past mistakes or your future failures. For the decisions we make today are the ones which we live within…
Brothers, today is where the battle rages…
Prayer requests
Ernie – pray for neighbor who was coming to Church, but is now having complications with Gale Bladder and was found to have cancer, pray for flood recovery in flooded areas of Midwest, pray for those participating in same-sex marriages in California
Paul – pray that he is recovering alright from dental appointment
Kevin – pray for the upcoming political season
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Greg – pray for the upcoming trip to Hawaii, pray for the new home environment that all will go well
Tim – pray that he may be faithful in all things according to His will
David – pray that he will seek the Lord’s will
Mark – pray that I can be more focused on Him, pray that I can continue to be a support to my wife, pray that I can till my own dirt (Luke 8) in order to be more receptive of the Word
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Bill – pray for God’s spirit to bless all of the kid’s in the Royal Family kid’s camp and to support the counselors
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Kelcy – pray for continued blessing and the blessing of his upcoming vacation time
Vince – pray that he can find a decent job, pray for Pastor Grant’s wife to be healed, pray for strength and peace for Dave
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 25th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (I will most likely be leading the group again unless something comes up with the family)
Wednesday, July 2nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, July 9th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NKJV
“The Lord says to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool." The Lord sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. Rule in the midst of your enemies! Your people will offer themselves freely on the day of your power, in holy garments; from the womb of the morning, the dew of your youth will be yours.” Psalms 110”1-3 ESV
Each day we find ourselves locked in the battle.
At times it is not easy to remain focused on the finish line because the road is littered with many troubles that each one of us must navigate. Yet there is a certainty about the journey because it will ultimately take each one of us to a particular destination that none of us can escape. For some of us, the destination we will ultimately arrive at will have the taste of victory with our Heavenly Father; while for others the destination will be one of great anguish.
So we live our lives within the decisions that we all make. It is the place where we find choices that may either lead us to obeying God or choices that will lead us away from God. The decision is ours because it falls within the freedom that God has given each one of us. It is called our “free will”.
But how glorious it will be for those who have chosen the Lord!!
The Psalmist here describes the battle array of those who have come on behalf of the Lord. It is not an army of conscription or an army made up of those who were forced to come. Instead the army which is described here in this Psalm is one that is made up of those who willingly and freely came to serve. It was an army of those who made the decision to stand beside the Lord…
There is a very important note here by how it describes those who offer themselves freely unto the Lord—dressed in ‘holy garments’. We cannot miss this description because these garments represent many decisions, many choices, by those who belong to God, who have accepted Christ, to live a life that is holy. Not by the standards of this world, but by the standards of the one and only true God.
God describes to us what type of attitudes will characterize the lives of those who belong to God in the epistle of Galatians: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 ESV These are the standards that God desires us to possess; and what is great about each one of these is that they can only exist because of the “free will” that He has given us.
From this gift to choose, comes the ultimate choice which must be made in every decision that we make. Will we make decisions that lead us to giving our lives up as living sacrifices, so that we may stand beside the Lord on that glorious day; or will we make decisions that are based upon selfish motivations, which can only lead us to ultimate destruction and eternal separation from our Lord.
In Second Corinthians, the Apostle Paul describes the choice many churches in Macedonia made even though they were under severe affliction:
“And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will.” 2 Corinthians 8:5 NIV
The churches in Macedonia gave themselves first to the Lord before they made any other decision. They literally held nothing back because they felt they all belonged first to God. This completely caught the Apostle Paul off-guard, but their heart was completely with the Lord which is why they first went to Him as living sacrifices…
My prayer is that all of us can do a little better with the choices that each one of us make. I know that I am the first one who needs prayer because I am on the frontline as well in the decision making process. Many choices that I make are not God-centered and fall short of what God desires.
But I believe there is much meaning in the closing statement of verse three here in Psalms 110 when it says: “from the womb of the morning, the dew of your youth will be yours.” Because each one of us has been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb on that Sunday morning when Christ rose from the dead. For His resurrection came from the womb of the new-birth. All our sins have been washed away.
Therefore do not fear your past mistakes or your future failures. For the decisions we make today are the ones which we live within…
Brothers, today is where the battle rages…
Prayer requests
Ernie – pray for neighbor who was coming to Church, but is now having complications with Gale Bladder and was found to have cancer, pray for flood recovery in flooded areas of Midwest, pray for those participating in same-sex marriages in California
Paul – pray that he is recovering alright from dental appointment
Kevin – pray for the upcoming political season
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Greg – pray for the upcoming trip to Hawaii, pray for the new home environment that all will go well
Tim – pray that he may be faithful in all things according to His will
David – pray that he will seek the Lord’s will
Mark – pray that I can be more focused on Him, pray that I can continue to be a support to my wife, pray that I can till my own dirt (Luke 8) in order to be more receptive of the Word
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Bill – pray for God’s spirit to bless all of the kid’s in the Royal Family kid’s camp and to support the counselors
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Kelcy – pray for continued blessing and the blessing of his upcoming vacation time
Vince – pray that he can find a decent job, pray for Pastor Grant’s wife to be healed, pray for strength and peace for Dave
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 25th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (I will most likely be leading the group again unless something comes up with the family)
Wednesday, July 2nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, July 9th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NKJV
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Weekly Message / Prayer Request
Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:11-12 NIV
Life truly is an amazing blessing. The whole process of being born is something that I continually marvel over because of how many parts of the process must come together as one.
And once again, I was witness to this process as my son was born last Tuesday. When I first gazed at him I asked all the questions a father probably asks: What is he going to become in this world? How is he going to get along with his sister? Who is he going to be more like, me or Beth? I was overjoyed with emotion… what a blessing!!
Yet there is something more to what anyone of us can see; something more to ‘the cover of any book’ if I may use that analogy. And this question eventually came up during my fist gaze of him as well: What is God’s will for his life?
When you consider the complexity of life and all the choices that a lifetime pres
ents each one of us, how amazing life really is because of this verse in Ephesians. This verse says that everything will work out according to conformity with the will of our heavenly Father and how everything falls within His ultimate purpose.
This is very comforting to know that God has everything under control and how He continues to use each one of us according to His plan. It gives me much strength and peace to know that God is there for all of us.
But it is not that simple to understand at times because of all the pain and suffering which exist in the world and maybe even during trials and tribulations in each one of our lives. The Apostle Paul made a clear reference to such pain and suffering when he spoke about the thorn in his flesh, what he called a ‘messenger of Satan’ (2 Corinthians 12:7).
This leads me to saying what I believe Satan really is in our lives—a distracter from the life God really desires us to live. For Satan knows that if he gets us preoccupied with pain and suffering, the visible result of our lives becomes more the focus then God’s ultimate purpose does. Our eyes are taken away from the cross and are placed squarely on the “cover of the book”, not within the pages which have been written.
Paul uses an interesting Greek word for “works” here in Ephesians 1:11. The word used for “works” here is ‘energeo’ which when it is literally translated it means “energy,” “energetic,” and “to energize”. This means that God has literally energized everyone to work according to His plans and immediately operate as He had planned. Not simply ready to function, but already functioning.
The Apostle Paul speaks about this beginning in the book of Philippians when he wrote:
“…that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6b NIV
I believe that from the very beginning of each one of our lives, God has energized each one of us with the power necessary for spiritual completion. We therefore are ready to carry out God’s will in our lives if we surrender our life to Him. But unfortunately all of us, especially me, have fallen prey to ‘the distraction’ and have given into focusing more on the visible result of things, not Him.
My prayer is that all of us may begin to refocus and know that God desires to use us for His glory; that we may see past the thorn in our lives, the distraction of any pain and suffering, and see God’s ultimate purpose.
My son was born last Tuesday and at that very moment he was energized with the power necessary for spiritual completion. May he find that power. May I be a good father and lead him to finding that power. And may all of us better understand how to find that power which was inborn within us…
God bless each one of you and may you see His will in your life, the life of this group, and the within the life of the Church…
Prayer requests
Bill – pray for God’s spirit to bless all of the kid’s in the Royal Family kid’s camp and to support the counselors
Kevin – pray for rest and peace for a friend
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Greg – pray for that his wife Lonnie will be protected during her trip to Chicago and back
Tim – pray for reformation in the church and in our hearts
Vince – pray that he can find a decent job, pray for Pastor Grant’s wife to be healed, pray for strength and peace for Dave
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
David – pray that he may find a more intimate relationship with the Lord
Kelcy – pray for continued blessing and the blessing of his upcoming vacation time
Mark – pray that I can be more focused on Him, pray that I can continue to be a support to my wife, pray the Lord will bless Matteo has he continues to grow into our family, pray for our finances this coming few months
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Ernie – pray for his wife who is having some pancreas problems and needs healing, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
Paul – pray that he will be able to find some work
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 18th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (I will most likely be leading the group again unless something comes up with the family)
Wednesday, June 25th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, July 2nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 KJV
“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:11-12 NIV
Life truly is an amazing blessing. The whole process of being born is something that I continually marvel over because of how many parts of the process must come together as one.
And once again, I was witness to this process as my son was born last Tuesday. When I first gazed at him I asked all the questions a father probably asks: What is he going to become in this world? How is he going to get along with his sister? Who is he going to be more like, me or Beth? I was overjoyed with emotion… what a blessing!!
Yet there is something more to what anyone of us can see; something more to ‘the cover of any book’ if I may use that analogy. And this question eventually came up during my fist gaze of him as well: What is God’s will for his life?
When you consider the complexity of life and all the choices that a lifetime pres
ents each one of us, how amazing life really is because of this verse in Ephesians. This verse says that everything will work out according to conformity with the will of our heavenly Father and how everything falls within His ultimate purpose.This is very comforting to know that God has everything under control and how He continues to use each one of us according to His plan. It gives me much strength and peace to know that God is there for all of us.
But it is not that simple to understand at times because of all the pain and suffering which exist in the world and maybe even during trials and tribulations in each one of our lives. The Apostle Paul made a clear reference to such pain and suffering when he spoke about the thorn in his flesh, what he called a ‘messenger of Satan’ (2 Corinthians 12:7).
This leads me to saying what I believe Satan really is in our lives—a distracter from the life God really desires us to live. For Satan knows that if he gets us preoccupied with pain and suffering, the visible result of our lives becomes more the focus then God’s ultimate purpose does. Our eyes are taken away from the cross and are placed squarely on the “cover of the book”, not within the pages which have been written.
Paul uses an interesting Greek word for “works” here in Ephesians 1:11. The word used for “works” here is ‘energeo’ which when it is literally translated it means “energy,” “energetic,” and “to energize”. This means that God has literally energized everyone to work according to His plans and immediately operate as He had planned. Not simply ready to function, but already functioning.
The Apostle Paul speaks about this beginning in the book of Philippians when he wrote:
“…that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6b NIV
I believe that from the very beginning of each one of our lives, God has energized each one of us with the power necessary for spiritual completion. We therefore are ready to carry out God’s will in our lives if we surrender our life to Him. But unfortunately all of us, especially me, have fallen prey to ‘the distraction’ and have given into focusing more on the visible result of things, not Him.
My prayer is that all of us may begin to refocus and know that God desires to use us for His glory; that we may see past the thorn in our lives, the distraction of any pain and suffering, and see God’s ultimate purpose.
My son was born last Tuesday and at that very moment he was energized with the power necessary for spiritual completion. May he find that power. May I be a good father and lead him to finding that power. And may all of us better understand how to find that power which was inborn within us…
God bless each one of you and may you see His will in your life, the life of this group, and the within the life of the Church…
Prayer requests
Bill – pray for God’s spirit to bless all of the kid’s in the Royal Family kid’s camp and to support the counselors
Kevin – pray for rest and peace for a friend
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Greg – pray for that his wife Lonnie will be protected during her trip to Chicago and back
Tim – pray for reformation in the church and in our hearts
Vince – pray that he can find a decent job, pray for Pastor Grant’s wife to be healed, pray for strength and peace for Dave
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
David – pray that he may find a more intimate relationship with the Lord
Kelcy – pray for continued blessing and the blessing of his upcoming vacation time
Mark – pray that I can be more focused on Him, pray that I can continue to be a support to my wife, pray the Lord will bless Matteo has he continues to grow into our family, pray for our finances this coming few months
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Ernie – pray for his wife who is having some pancreas problems and needs healing, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
Paul – pray that he will be able to find some work
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 18th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (I will most likely be leading the group again unless something comes up with the family)
Wednesday, June 25th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, July 2nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 KJV
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Matteo Alexander
Over the past year, this website has been dedicated to sharing encouraging words and prayer request to the Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship group here at Northshore Christian Church.
But I wanted to pass on a special post announcing the birth of our son Matteo Alexander. He is a bundle of joy with mother and him doing very well…
Here are some pictures I would like to pass on to everyone:
But I wanted to pass on a special post announcing the birth of our son Matteo Alexander. He is a bundle of joy with mother and him doing very well…
Here are some pictures I would like to pass on to everyone:
God bless,
Mark
Monday, June 9, 2008
Weekly Message / Prayer Request
Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the LORD to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s…. You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you.”
2 Chronicles 20:15,17 NKJV
Sometimes is it very easy to become discouraged by the ‘insurmountable’ odds that you may be facing. There may be a problem or trial that is looming on the horizon which looks impossible to overcome. And the storm may seem so great that you are afraid of the boat capsizing, leaving you for drowning…
Fear is a real thing that we all face in different ways and none of us have been completely immune to its presence. For each one of us has dealt with the fear of uncertainty at least once during their lifetime.
When I look back at my own life, the times that I have dealt with fear are the times that I have looked at the problem or trial as ‘my battle’ that I must overcome. It became an endless game of what I must do; or how I must use my resources; or how I must plan out my path. Everything became very personal and ‘the battle’ became mine to win or lose.
Yet this is not how God desires us to live through our problems or trials. In fact, I do not believe He wants us to take any battle too personal as Christians because our purpose and place has been already determined. Therefore nothing is truly ‘my battle’ because nothing in my life outside of sin is truly mine to begin with.
The chronicler shares with us a great story in this chapter of 2 Chronicles about King Jehoshaphat during the Moabite War. During this story a prophet comes forth and shares to the King how the battle is not his, but God’s. Then he continues a few verses later about how the king can be victorious even though the odds do not seem to be in favor of the Israelites.
Therefore I believe this story shares with us some very important lessons: (1) First, we must begin to give the battle to the Lord and rely on Him to help us overcome what seems like ‘insurmountable’ odds. (2) Second, we must position ourselves ready for victory by eliminating any sin through repentance so that we can be found holy in the eyes of the Lord. (3) Third, we must stand firm in the Word that God has given us so that we may not fall prey to the world’s schemes. (4) Finally, we must have confidence through faith that we will be victorious in the end because of God’s great love for us.
Jehoshaphat followed this course and eventually he was brought to victory by his faithfulness to God. What a valuable lesson for us as Christians on how we are to fight through the battles that we may be facing.
Moses shared a very similar message to the Israelites when they were preparing to cross the Red Sea:
“Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." Exodus 14:13 NIV
Brothers, I believe we must begin to live our lives this way if we have not already done so. We must begin to give over the battle to God because the Lord has promised to carry us through the fire. And nothing is too difficult for the Lord to overcome (Genesis 18:14). Therefore regardless of the odds, God can make each one of us victorious in the end.
This does not mean that we will never face difficulties because the world certainly hates those who follow in the path of the Lord (John 15:19). But what this means is that we only need to stand firm in the promises of God and know He is there, ready to take over the battle if we only let Him.
Therefore let us commit our lives to God and wait upon the Lord. He is ready, willing, and able to save each one of us. May we find this peace and this confidence through the problems and trials we all face during the upcoming week …
Prayer requests
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Kevin – pray for continued relationship with God based upon his will
Paul – pray that he will be able to find some work
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Greg – pray for that his wife Lonnie will be protected during her trip to Chicago and back
Tim – pray that the recent job interviews will result in a job that is His will
Vince – pray that his wife may be protected from the enemy and learn how she can better defend against his attacks
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Dick – pray for my safety while down at the dock, pray that he will be able to work through any temptations over gluttony
Ernie – pray for his wife who is having some pancreas problems and needs healing, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
David – pray for continued strength in the Lord
Kelcy – pray for the car ministry here at Northshore and a sunny day for Father’s Day and that it may be a success
Mark – pray for the birth of a healthy child, pray for protection of wife during the surgery, pray that Amara may be comforted and that she will adjust well, pray for this group that it will make a larger / deeper impact on men
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 11th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (David Meier will be leading the meeting because I will not be in attendance)
Wednesday, June 18th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, June 25th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 KJV
“And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the LORD to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s…. You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you.”
2 Chronicles 20:15,17 NKJV
Sometimes is it very easy to become discouraged by the ‘insurmountable’ odds that you may be facing. There may be a problem or trial that is looming on the horizon which looks impossible to overcome. And the storm may seem so great that you are afraid of the boat capsizing, leaving you for drowning…
Fear is a real thing that we all face in different ways and none of us have been completely immune to its presence. For each one of us has dealt with the fear of uncertainty at least once during their lifetime.
When I look back at my own life, the times that I have dealt with fear are the times that I have looked at the problem or trial as ‘my battle’ that I must overcome. It became an endless game of what I must do; or how I must use my resources; or how I must plan out my path. Everything became very personal and ‘the battle’ became mine to win or lose.
Yet this is not how God desires us to live through our problems or trials. In fact, I do not believe He wants us to take any battle too personal as Christians because our purpose and place has been already determined. Therefore nothing is truly ‘my battle’ because nothing in my life outside of sin is truly mine to begin with.
The chronicler shares with us a great story in this chapter of 2 Chronicles about King Jehoshaphat during the Moabite War. During this story a prophet comes forth and shares to the King how the battle is not his, but God’s. Then he continues a few verses later about how the king can be victorious even though the odds do not seem to be in favor of the Israelites.
Therefore I believe this story shares with us some very important lessons: (1) First, we must begin to give the battle to the Lord and rely on Him to help us overcome what seems like ‘insurmountable’ odds. (2) Second, we must position ourselves ready for victory by eliminating any sin through repentance so that we can be found holy in the eyes of the Lord. (3) Third, we must stand firm in the Word that God has given us so that we may not fall prey to the world’s schemes. (4) Finally, we must have confidence through faith that we will be victorious in the end because of God’s great love for us.
Jehoshaphat followed this course and eventually he was brought to victory by his faithfulness to God. What a valuable lesson for us as Christians on how we are to fight through the battles that we may be facing.
Moses shared a very similar message to the Israelites when they were preparing to cross the Red Sea:
“Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." Exodus 14:13 NIV
Brothers, I believe we must begin to live our lives this way if we have not already done so. We must begin to give over the battle to God because the Lord has promised to carry us through the fire. And nothing is too difficult for the Lord to overcome (Genesis 18:14). Therefore regardless of the odds, God can make each one of us victorious in the end.
This does not mean that we will never face difficulties because the world certainly hates those who follow in the path of the Lord (John 15:19). But what this means is that we only need to stand firm in the promises of God and know He is there, ready to take over the battle if we only let Him.
Therefore let us commit our lives to God and wait upon the Lord. He is ready, willing, and able to save each one of us. May we find this peace and this confidence through the problems and trials we all face during the upcoming week …
Prayer requests
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Kevin – pray for continued relationship with God based upon his will
Paul – pray that he will be able to find some work
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Greg – pray for that his wife Lonnie will be protected during her trip to Chicago and back
Tim – pray that the recent job interviews will result in a job that is His will
Vince – pray that his wife may be protected from the enemy and learn how she can better defend against his attacks
Brett S – pray for all men within Northshore which need healing
Dick – pray for my safety while down at the dock, pray that he will be able to work through any temptations over gluttony
Ernie – pray for his wife who is having some pancreas problems and needs healing, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
David – pray for continued strength in the Lord
Kelcy – pray for the car ministry here at Northshore and a sunny day for Father’s Day and that it may be a success
Mark – pray for the birth of a healthy child, pray for protection of wife during the surgery, pray that Amara may be comforted and that she will adjust well, pray for this group that it will make a larger / deeper impact on men
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 11th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church. (David Meier will be leading the meeting because I will not be in attendance)
Wednesday, June 18th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, June 25th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Memory Verse
“And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 KJV
Monday, June 2, 2008
Weekly Message / Prayer Request
Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
“I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.”
Psalm 18:1-3 NIV
We are on the front lines of the battle. The enemy is trying to do all he can to stop each one of us from advancing the message of hope in a world that is full of darkness.
In fact, Peter warned us almost two thousand years ago that we are to be self-controlled and alert because the enemy is prowling around like a lion, seeking someone that he may be able to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Two thousand years later, the enemy’s scheme has not changed and he continues to devour the sheep that have wondered from the shepherds pasture.
When I consider how a lion seeks out his prey, there is no question that I see Satan at work in the world today. Today the world promotes individualism, go-it-alone attitude which only separates people from the flock. In fact, one only has to consider “The Army of One” recruiting slogan a couple of years ago for the U.S. Army to understand the prevailing attitude in America right now. It is all about the individual in America today, which I do not believe is coincidental because the enemy is alive and working…
Instead I believe we need to look at where we are to find refuge as Christians, so that we may be able to withstand the enemy’s schemes. This place is not one of solitude, not one of shifting sands, or not a place of darkness. Instead the place of all sanctuary exists within the source of all strength—our Lord, our God, our Adonai.
Therefore I find myself within the grip of Psalm 18 this morning because it is a clear reference to where we can find rest as Christians. For King David withstood many enemies during his time, yet he understood the source of all strength comes from God; because God is one of constant strength and never changes regardless of the ‘tide of culture’. The world may change and drift from the path of righteousness, but God is the rock upon where we stand as Christians.
Moses understood this as well when he spoke to the people of Israel about the judgment of God:
“He is the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.” Deuteronomy 32:4 NKJV
Within this statement we can find the perfection of God’s hand. The enemy can never deceive us when we find ourselves upon this rock. Even when times look difficult, when we are upon the rock of the Lord, His work is perfect and we can know that we are well protected…
Yet, finding ourselves upon this rock is sometimes rather difficult. I would be very naïve to think that I can write a message about the source of strength as a Christian and believe that we can now all go about our day in peace; because finding ourselves upon this rock everyday is sometimes a very difficult task. I struggle with it everyday (not as much as I used to when I was outside of the shepherds pasture). King David struggled with it as well throughout the Old Testament. So do not feel inadequate as a Christian if you cannot maintain yourself upon the rock.
But this is why I believe our time on Wednesday evenings as a fellowship of men is so important. Here we can come together in order to encourage one another to get back on that rock. Here we can focus on the Word together which is the source of all strength. Here we can demonstrate the love God has always desired us to demonstrate to one another…
So let us focus our attention of the rock and go to the Word of God for strength. May we dive deep into its meaning and fill our hearts with hope so that we may carry the message of truth forward into a world full of darkness…
Prayer requests
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Kevin – pray for continued relationship with God based upon his will
Paul – pray that he will be able to find some work
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Greg – pray for the numerous people who are suffering right now will illness
Tim – pray that we all will be able to pray for one another with more earnest, pray that he can eventually know the best time to get another job
Vince – pray that Kevin will be able to find peace during these troubling times
Dick – pray that he will be more obedient to the Lord daily as he continues to walk in faith
Ernie – pray for his wife who is having some pancreas problems and needs healing, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
David – pray for continued strength in the Lord
Kelcy – pray for the car ministry here at Northshore and a sunny day for Father’s Day, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
Mark – pray for financial discernment as we continue to adjust to our financial situation, pray that this group can continue to walk in the will of the Lord, pray that we can all find ourselves upon the ‘rock of the Lord’, pray for peace this week for my wife
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Brett S – pray for a small girl in his wife’s class which had a heart transplant
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 4th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church
Wednesday, June 11th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church (will probably be led by someone else because I will not be in attendance)
Wednesday, June 18th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Upcoming Event
Message from Mike Toben:
If you were in church this weekend you saw a preview of “Lord Save Us from Your Followers.” On Sunday June 8th at 6pm Northshore will host a special advance screening of this movie one week before its theatrical debut. After the screening there will be discussion with the film’s director and star, Dan Merchant. This movie makes for some very interesting discussion. It should be a great night to do something different together as a group.
Form more on the film, check out this Today Show clip: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24047551#24047551
Also check out the web site: http://lordsaveusthemovie.com/
Memory Verse
“And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 KJV
“I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
“I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.”
Psalm 18:1-3 NIV
We are on the front lines of the battle. The enemy is trying to do all he can to stop each one of us from advancing the message of hope in a world that is full of darkness.
In fact, Peter warned us almost two thousand years ago that we are to be self-controlled and alert because the enemy is prowling around like a lion, seeking someone that he may be able to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Two thousand years later, the enemy’s scheme has not changed and he continues to devour the sheep that have wondered from the shepherds pasture.
When I consider how a lion seeks out his prey, there is no question that I see Satan at work in the world today. Today the world promotes individualism, go-it-alone attitude which only separates people from the flock. In fact, one only has to consider “The Army of One” recruiting slogan a couple of years ago for the U.S. Army to understand the prevailing attitude in America right now. It is all about the individual in America today, which I do not believe is coincidental because the enemy is alive and working…
Instead I believe we need to look at where we are to find refuge as Christians, so that we may be able to withstand the enemy’s schemes. This place is not one of solitude, not one of shifting sands, or not a place of darkness. Instead the place of all sanctuary exists within the source of all strength—our Lord, our God, our Adonai.
Therefore I find myself within the grip of Psalm 18 this morning because it is a clear reference to where we can find rest as Christians. For King David withstood many enemies during his time, yet he understood the source of all strength comes from God; because God is one of constant strength and never changes regardless of the ‘tide of culture’. The world may change and drift from the path of righteousness, but God is the rock upon where we stand as Christians.
Moses understood this as well when he spoke to the people of Israel about the judgment of God:
“He is the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.” Deuteronomy 32:4 NKJV
Within this statement we can find the perfection of God’s hand. The enemy can never deceive us when we find ourselves upon this rock. Even when times look difficult, when we are upon the rock of the Lord, His work is perfect and we can know that we are well protected…
Yet, finding ourselves upon this rock is sometimes rather difficult. I would be very naïve to think that I can write a message about the source of strength as a Christian and believe that we can now all go about our day in peace; because finding ourselves upon this rock everyday is sometimes a very difficult task. I struggle with it everyday (not as much as I used to when I was outside of the shepherds pasture). King David struggled with it as well throughout the Old Testament. So do not feel inadequate as a Christian if you cannot maintain yourself upon the rock.
But this is why I believe our time on Wednesday evenings as a fellowship of men is so important. Here we can come together in order to encourage one another to get back on that rock. Here we can focus on the Word together which is the source of all strength. Here we can demonstrate the love God has always desired us to demonstrate to one another…
So let us focus our attention of the rock and go to the Word of God for strength. May we dive deep into its meaning and fill our hearts with hope so that we may carry the message of truth forward into a world full of darkness…
Prayer requests
Carmine – pray that he can find ways to lower his blood pressure which was very high recently
Kevin – pray for continued relationship with God based upon his will
Paul – pray that he will be able to find some work
Steve S – pray that he can sometimes find the words to communicate what he is wants to communicate
Greg – pray for the numerous people who are suffering right now will illness
Tim – pray that we all will be able to pray for one another with more earnest, pray that he can eventually know the best time to get another job
Vince – pray that Kevin will be able to find peace during these troubling times
Dick – pray that he will be more obedient to the Lord daily as he continues to walk in faith
Ernie – pray for his wife who is having some pancreas problems and needs healing, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
David – pray for continued strength in the Lord
Kelcy – pray for the car ministry here at Northshore and a sunny day for Father’s Day, pray for Al, Tim W, and Tim N as they all recover from heart surgeries
Mark – pray for financial discernment as we continue to adjust to our financial situation, pray that this group can continue to walk in the will of the Lord, pray that we can all find ourselves upon the ‘rock of the Lord’, pray for peace this week for my wife
***Pray as Northshore begins a new chapter in its ministry to people who desperately needs to hear the gospel message
Continued prayer needs
Ramon – pray that Tina can have some healing in her health troubles and can change her diet and exercise routine
Gary – pray for sister-in-law who has serious infection in organs, pray for wife Terry who may have to have surgery here in the near future to take care of a serious health issue
Monte – praise God for a new job that he has been blessed with
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college, pray that Nate will be able to find a job
Vince – pray that his wife may do well in an upcoming job interview, pray that she may become encouraged by some recent blessings, pray for Vince and her that they may hear the Lord
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in his Bible reading, pray that all pain will be removed someday from his body
Bret – pray for rest, pray for a the right relationship with a girl he recently met
Larry – pray for financial security as he works on building a new house near Arlington
Brett S – pray for a small girl in his wife’s class which had a heart transplant
Jeff – pray for more quality time with children and family
Gary Cercone – pray that daughter Jennifer and grandson will receive continued blessings from the Lord
Joe – pray that his condo may sell and that he may finally be settled here in Mukilteo
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, June 4th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in room C214 on the academy side of the church
Wednesday, June 11th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church (will probably be led by someone else because I will not be in attendance)
Wednesday, June 18th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Upcoming Event
Message from Mike Toben:
If you were in church this weekend you saw a preview of “Lord Save Us from Your Followers.” On Sunday June 8th at 6pm Northshore will host a special advance screening of this movie one week before its theatrical debut. After the screening there will be discussion with the film’s director and star, Dan Merchant. This movie makes for some very interesting discussion. It should be a great night to do something different together as a group.
Form more on the film, check out this Today Show clip: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24047551#24047551
Also check out the web site: http://lordsaveusthemovie.com/
Memory Verse
“And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 KJV
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