Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“That you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19 NKJV
All of us who believe can attest to knowing God in some way or another. It would be impossible to be a Christian believer and think otherwise. But do we know everything about God and all that He truly is? That is an impossible task because God is greater than our most complete comprehension. We are limited by our own knowledge and can really only attest to the communicable attributes that He shares with us.
God is so much greater and has a whole realm of incommunicable attributes that is impossible for us to understand in their completeness like eternity (God has existed for all of eternity), unchangeableness (God does not change, but we do), or omnipresence (God is everywhere present, but we are only present only in one place at one time) to name a few. There are others, but these attributes are very difficult for us to comprehend because God does not directly communicate them to us.
Yet these incommunicable attributes are very important because they are the width, length, depth, and height to God. They are the completeness and the power upon where the greatness of God stands.
This is where I believe our own sinful nature and faulty thinking fail us because we only sometimes see and hear God in a way that limits who He truly is. For in our own box, we stuff God thinking He can only work in these ways that suit our needs… Whether they are communicable or incommunicable attributes, they become limited by us and are never seen for being of God.
This past week I realized this struggle when I saw Him through the eyes of a child. Last week when I attended Group Connect, at the beginning of the meeting there was a mixer where we were to start talking with someone of the same hair color, asking them questions. Now I had trouble at first (seemed like grey was the predominant hair color—just kidding Greg) finding someone, when this four year old girl came up to me and said, “Hey, you have my hair color!”
Now I thought I was there to start connecting others into a small group; so this four year old girl did not fit the mold of what I thought was going to be one of the highlights of the evening. Yet God rolled me over because here was this girl sharing with me God in this innocent, loving, childlike way by talking about the movie Ratatouille. Strangest thing, but God was revealed by her heart and about how God loves rats too…
This is why I believe we must understand what Paul’s statement in the opening passage ‘to comprehend with all the saints’ really means. Because my view of God was not complete nor was it comprehensive unless I heard about who God was to someone else. God is well outside of my box as well and can be many different things to many different people because He is God. But unless I share moments with others, I would not know this and not understand more about God and how He works…
See everything is created by God and therefore everything is a reflection of who God is. The Apostle Paul shared this to the Romans when he said:
“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” Romans 11:36 NIV
Brothers, God can be found in each person who believes. There is a story about God in each person who is a Christian. The stories may be different and calling may be unique to everyone, but God communicates who He is through each one of them.
This is why I believe this Men’s Fellowship is so important, because it is an opportunity to hear a little more about who God is from the Word and see who God is from other Christians. When we take God outside of our little box and allow God to be God, change occurs and lives are transformed.
We live in a time when this is desperately needed because the world is looking through lens which are extremely biased in one direction or the other. To the world, God only works through the lens of racism, demographics, cultural mediums, religion, and other challenges which have yet to be tested.
But to us who are of the family, brothers and sisters in Christ, God works by the means He has so designed. Therefore let us worship Him, who is the most Almighty of Almighty, and the One who is our Creator and Maker of all… The One who loves each one of us! Then our worship will lead to a greater understanding of our God…
Prayer requests
Calvin – pray that he will make the right decisions in possibly purchasing a practice in Seattle
Richard – pray that He will watch over the leaders of this country
Greg – pray that our hearts and minds will rest on the Lord, not on the election or anything else
Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job
Ernie – pray for granddaughter Deana who was recently released from the hospital
Paul – pray for the Northshore bookstore ministry, pray that God will continue to do His work He is doing in each one of us
Bill M – pray that he will continue to heal well from his surgery
Vince – pray for continued health, pray that God will help him with medical insurance
Mark – pray that I will be a spiritual leader in my own home, pray that I may be given strength in leadership here at the Church, pray for this group that God’s will be done
***Pray as Northshore begins new ministries this fall to help encourage others grow in their relationship with God
Continued prayer needs
Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school this week so they may learn and become better students
Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord
Tim W – pray for the country during difficult times
Kevin – pray for his youngest daughter and her boyfriend that they make smart choices, pray for exwife
David – pray that he will be able to serve in the children’s ministry and make a difference in the lives of kids
Ralph – pray that he will be able to surrender to God in everything
Larry Miller – pray that the marriage ministry will make an impact on the couples who attend Northshore
Ramon – pray that God will continue to give him strength
Tim H – pray for his wife to find her ministry
Gary – pray for strength as he works through all the various stresses of life, pray for the health of his wife
Sky – pray for some financial help and that he can help make some additional income for the family
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in joining with others in fellowship, pray God will comfort him during times of loneliness
Joe – pray for all the military members who are in harms way for their safety and quick return
Kelcy – pray for all the pastors and leaders within the Church
Brent – pray that he will find clarity and guidance for finding the right person to marry
Brett S – pray for healing of liver disease
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Carmine – pray that he can deal with the stresses of work
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
**** Wednesday, October 22nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church
Wednesday, October 29th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, November 6th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, November 13th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, November 20th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Group Happenings
Over the next seven meetings, we are going to be focusing on topics during our study of the scripture which will help us have victory in our everyday life.
The enemy is constantly trying to steal our joy and take our focus away from God. Our belief is during this time of uncertainty, our focus should remain squarely on Him. Therefore we are called to read the Word and come together as Christian brothers to encourage one another and learn more about the power of God in our lives.
This series will certainly help us grow in our relationship with one another so we can stand together united in Christ. I believe this will only strengthen the Church and bring us to a stronger commitment to our Lord Jesus Christ.
I pray all of you will join us in the coming weeks and invite others to join...
In Christ,
Mark
Meeting Topic Schedule "Having Victory in our Everyday Life"
October 22, 2008 - Armor of God (Tim)
October 29, 2008 - Power and the Word (Mark)
November 5, 2008 - Growing in Faith (Tim)
November 12, 2008 - Obedience and the Law (Mark)
November 19, 2008 - Claiming Victory as an anointed one (Tim)
November 24, 2008 (Monday Meeting) - Living in the Kingdom of God now (Mark)
December 3, 2008 - Abiding in Christ (Tim)
*** All meetings are at Northshore Christian Church from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm in room C214
Christmas Topics (proposed)
December 10, 2008 - The Coming Messiah (Mark)
December 17, 2008 - The Arrival of the Messiah (Tim)
December 29, 2008 (Monday Meeting) - Blessings -- here, now and tomorrow (Mark)
Memory Verse
“But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” 2 Chronicles 15:7 NKJV
Monday, October 20, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
Weekly Message / Prayer Request
Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV
One of the things about your children is they really expose your faults. Earlier today, I was with my daughter when she had a meltdown over putting away her toys. One which is probably rather typical of a three year old; but as her father I was completely convicted over her behavior because as I watched her she was using words that I have once said and behavior that I once demonstrated. She was a splitting image of me minus the toys and the age.
Parents I am sure can understand this phenomenon because it happens to everyone who has children. Our children are completely like us because they have our tendencies and have been watching us their whole life. Therefore I cannot help but realize that the future is watching. The future us watching all of us…
And this is a very important lesson for all of us who are of the Church. The future is watching the Church. Everything the Church stands for and represents is only one generation from extinction if we do not teach our children well. I firmly believe this and truly believe that God has cautioned us to be vigilant of the Church because the next generation could be swept away by our own carelessness or apathy.
Moses shared with the Israelites in the opening passage to be careful, watch themselves, and do not forget what they have seen. These were seemingly three simple commands given. All they had to do is stay within these boundaries and be diligent to keep the commands of God. Much easier said than actually done, especially when you consider his last statement “[do not] let them slip from your heart as long as you live.”
See many of us can remember what we have seen or to be careful and keep a watchful eye. All of these we can tackle; but when we let things slip from our heart, especially God, problems begin to arise.
The heart controls almost every part of our daily life. The time we spend doing something is almost always a reflection of where our heart is. If we love cars, we will find time to work or play with cars. If we love sports, part of our week will almost undoubtedly be spent watching sports. If we love going out to clubs, we will stay up to the middle of the night dancing even if we have to work the next day. We will push ourselves and everything will become secondary to where one rests their heart. That is why Moses warned the Israelites from letting God’s commandments slip from the heart.
One of the seven churches in the book of Revelation had a problem with their heart which is why John recorded:
“You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love.” Revelation 2:3-4 NIV
Everything the Church of Ephesus accomplished through orthodoxy was cold and mechanical. Their good deeds and labor was because they felt it was their religious duty. It was something completely built into their religious beliefs, not because they were compelled by the heart.
God does not want mechanical and cold orthodoxy; He wants us to put him at the center of our heart. And the future is watching… Our children recognize our heart maybe better than we do at times. They can see when we are doing things just because and they can truly know when we are doing something we love.
If we truly share our love of God and all that he has declared passionately with our children, the future will be secure. This is why Moses declares that we need to teach this to our children because the future rests upon it. But if we teach them religion and not the reasons why we believe or the reasons of our heart, their heart will find passion elsewhere and the Church will eventually fail.
Ephesus was a big church for its day and a very influential one as well according to many historians. It made a large impact for Christ throughout the entire region. Yet where is the Church of Ephesus today? It is nothing but ruins and a fascinating archeological dig today.
Brothers, if we do not put God in our heart and share this with our children, Northshore one day could end up the same way… a Church that once was.
Prayer requests
Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord
Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job
Greg – pray that he can appreciate the family more
Ernie – pray for granddaughter Deana who is in the hospital
Paul – pray for the Northshore bookstore ministry, pray that he may live a life which is worthy of Him
Bill M – pray that he will continue to heal well
Vince – pray for continued health, pray that God will help him with medical insurance
Mark – pray for this group that it will continue to impact people for Him, pray for Bill and his recovery from the surgery he had last week, pray that I may be a better parent and lead them to God, pray for strength in following the Lord
***Pray as Northshore begins new ministries this fall to help encourage others grow in their relationship with God
Continued prayer needs
Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school this week so they may learn and become better students
Calvin – pray for starting a practice here in the state of Washington, pray for making the right decisions, pray for more God fearing men to lead this country
Tim W – pray for the country during difficult times
Richard – pray for continued strength
Kevin – pray for his youngest daughter and her boyfriend that they make smart choices, pray for exwife
David – pray that he will be able to serve in the children’s ministry and make a difference in the lives of kids
Ralph – pray that he will be able to surrender to God in everything
Larry Miller – pray that the marriage ministry will make an impact on the couples who attend Northshore
Ramon – pray that God will continue to give him strength
Tim H – pray for his wife to find her ministry
Gary – pray for strength as he works through all the various stresses of life, pray for the health of his wife
Sky – pray for some financial help and that he can help make some additional income for the family
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in joining with others in fellowship, pray God will comfort him during times of loneliness
Joe – pray for all the military members who are in harms way for their safety and quick return
Kelcy – pray for all the pastors and leaders within the Church
Brent – pray that he will find clarity and guidance for finding the right person to marry
Brett S – pray for healing of liver disease
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Carmine – pray that he can deal with the stresses of work
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, October 15th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church
**** Wednesday, October 22nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, October 29th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, November 6th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, November 13th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Group Happenings
I want to thank Tim Dresler for leading the group while I am leading CTL. Therefore we are able to meet every Wednesday night to go further in our study of the Word, fellowship with one another, and prayer… Join us when you can!!
In the coming weeks we are going to lay out the topics a little more in advance. Both Tim and I agree that we need to stay far enough ahead to give all of us the opportunity to dig deep into the word so that all of us may be transformed…
Always know that I stand beside all of you 24/7 as we continue on this journey together…
Memory Verse
“But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” 2 Chronicles 15:7 NKJV
Acts242mensfellowship.blogspot.com
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV
One of the things about your children is they really expose your faults. Earlier today, I was with my daughter when she had a meltdown over putting away her toys. One which is probably rather typical of a three year old; but as her father I was completely convicted over her behavior because as I watched her she was using words that I have once said and behavior that I once demonstrated. She was a splitting image of me minus the toys and the age.
Parents I am sure can understand this phenomenon because it happens to everyone who has children. Our children are completely like us because they have our tendencies and have been watching us their whole life. Therefore I cannot help but realize that the future is watching. The future us watching all of us…
And this is a very important lesson for all of us who are of the Church. The future is watching the Church. Everything the Church stands for and represents is only one generation from extinction if we do not teach our children well. I firmly believe this and truly believe that God has cautioned us to be vigilant of the Church because the next generation could be swept away by our own carelessness or apathy.
Moses shared with the Israelites in the opening passage to be careful, watch themselves, and do not forget what they have seen. These were seemingly three simple commands given. All they had to do is stay within these boundaries and be diligent to keep the commands of God. Much easier said than actually done, especially when you consider his last statement “[do not] let them slip from your heart as long as you live.”
See many of us can remember what we have seen or to be careful and keep a watchful eye. All of these we can tackle; but when we let things slip from our heart, especially God, problems begin to arise.
The heart controls almost every part of our daily life. The time we spend doing something is almost always a reflection of where our heart is. If we love cars, we will find time to work or play with cars. If we love sports, part of our week will almost undoubtedly be spent watching sports. If we love going out to clubs, we will stay up to the middle of the night dancing even if we have to work the next day. We will push ourselves and everything will become secondary to where one rests their heart. That is why Moses warned the Israelites from letting God’s commandments slip from the heart.
One of the seven churches in the book of Revelation had a problem with their heart which is why John recorded:
“You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love.” Revelation 2:3-4 NIV
Everything the Church of Ephesus accomplished through orthodoxy was cold and mechanical. Their good deeds and labor was because they felt it was their religious duty. It was something completely built into their religious beliefs, not because they were compelled by the heart.
God does not want mechanical and cold orthodoxy; He wants us to put him at the center of our heart. And the future is watching… Our children recognize our heart maybe better than we do at times. They can see when we are doing things just because and they can truly know when we are doing something we love.
If we truly share our love of God and all that he has declared passionately with our children, the future will be secure. This is why Moses declares that we need to teach this to our children because the future rests upon it. But if we teach them religion and not the reasons why we believe or the reasons of our heart, their heart will find passion elsewhere and the Church will eventually fail.
Ephesus was a big church for its day and a very influential one as well according to many historians. It made a large impact for Christ throughout the entire region. Yet where is the Church of Ephesus today? It is nothing but ruins and a fascinating archeological dig today.
Brothers, if we do not put God in our heart and share this with our children, Northshore one day could end up the same way… a Church that once was.
Prayer requests
Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord
Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job
Greg – pray that he can appreciate the family more
Ernie – pray for granddaughter Deana who is in the hospital
Paul – pray for the Northshore bookstore ministry, pray that he may live a life which is worthy of Him
Bill M – pray that he will continue to heal well
Vince – pray for continued health, pray that God will help him with medical insurance
Mark – pray for this group that it will continue to impact people for Him, pray for Bill and his recovery from the surgery he had last week, pray that I may be a better parent and lead them to God, pray for strength in following the Lord
***Pray as Northshore begins new ministries this fall to help encourage others grow in their relationship with God
Continued prayer needs
Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school this week so they may learn and become better students
Calvin – pray for starting a practice here in the state of Washington, pray for making the right decisions, pray for more God fearing men to lead this country
Tim W – pray for the country during difficult times
Richard – pray for continued strength
Kevin – pray for his youngest daughter and her boyfriend that they make smart choices, pray for exwife
David – pray that he will be able to serve in the children’s ministry and make a difference in the lives of kids
Ralph – pray that he will be able to surrender to God in everything
Larry Miller – pray that the marriage ministry will make an impact on the couples who attend Northshore
Ramon – pray that God will continue to give him strength
Tim H – pray for his wife to find her ministry
Gary – pray for strength as he works through all the various stresses of life, pray for the health of his wife
Sky – pray for some financial help and that he can help make some additional income for the family
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in joining with others in fellowship, pray God will comfort him during times of loneliness
Joe – pray for all the military members who are in harms way for their safety and quick return
Kelcy – pray for all the pastors and leaders within the Church
Brent – pray that he will find clarity and guidance for finding the right person to marry
Brett S – pray for healing of liver disease
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Carmine – pray that he can deal with the stresses of work
Keith – pray that their youngest daughter will be able to do well in college
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
Wednesday, October 15th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church
**** Wednesday, October 22nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, October 29th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, November 6th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, November 13th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
Group Happenings
I want to thank Tim Dresler for leading the group while I am leading CTL. Therefore we are able to meet every Wednesday night to go further in our study of the Word, fellowship with one another, and prayer… Join us when you can!!
In the coming weeks we are going to lay out the topics a little more in advance. Both Tim and I agree that we need to stay far enough ahead to give all of us the opportunity to dig deep into the word so that all of us may be transformed…
Always know that I stand beside all of you 24/7 as we continue on this journey together…
Memory Verse
“But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” 2 Chronicles 15:7 NKJV
Acts242mensfellowship.blogspot.com
Monday, October 6, 2008
Weekly Message / Prayer Request
Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship
“He has taken away the covering of Judah. In that day you looked to the weapons of the House of the Forest, and you saw that the breaches of the city of David were many. You collected the waters of the lower pool, and you counted the houses of Jerusalem, and you broke down the houses to fortify the wall. You made a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the old pool. But you did not look to Him who did it, or see Him who planned it long ago.” Isaiah 22:8-11 ESV
I will be completely honest, for the past week I have been struggling through my Bible reading plan. It isn’t because I have not read the particular chapters I was to have read. Nor is it from my lack of journaling because almost every day I was writing something down after I read the Scriptures.
Instead, most of my struggle has been because I feel like I have been walking through a dry season. It was difficult to hear the voice of the Lord through the Scripture this past week. Distractions at times have got the best of me and I am sure all of you at times can relate…
Then came Friday night when I was with some Christian brothers and sisters. We shared some time in the Word, some time in prayer, and some time just talking and encouraging one another. At first it was simply something on my calendar to look forward to, but when I left I realized this visit was God ordained and was much more. It was as if someone flipped on a light switch and everything started to come together. This is a clear testimony to the power of small groups and how important Christian fellowship is in your daily walk with the Lord…
Yet there was something deeper to learn from this past week and God revealed it during my time in the Scripture on Saturday; because all of us try to do things our way and try to find God where we want to find Him. This was definitely my self-diagnosis the past week as I worked through a dry season in my devotions.
The prophet Isaiah realized this same diagnosis about the people of Israel when he wrote Isaiah chapter 22. He was sharing oracles against foreign nations about how the judgment of the Lord was upon them in the previous nine chapters when he stops and gives warning to the people of Jerusalem. Because the people of Israel were not relying on the Lord for their defense, instead they making provisions based upon their own resources. They were trying to go it alone and believe they could protect themselves without God. They were essentially looking toward God only where they wanted to find Him.
But during the midst of their pride they forgot Psalm 125:2 which said, “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people both now and forevermore.” Instead their focus became inward and they began to put their faith more in themselves, then in the Word of God. They were literally destroying households to build a wall against their enemy, uprooting families to defend something which God already promised to defend.
Matthew Henry, a 18th Century theologian, made mention there were seven things which God made before the world (meaning which He had in his eye when He made the world): the Garden of Eden, the law, the just ones, Israel, the throne of glory, Messiah the Prince, and Jerusalem. All of them were fashioned before the foundation of the world. Not one of them would God fail to protect or uphold. Regardless to this fact mankind because of its pride still believed the solution was within them.
Today this attitude still exists because all we have to do is look at our own country to see how we have attempted to fortify the wall. We have destroyed the family unit in defense of moral relativism (which today has shown its worth in broken homes across America). We have removed God as our supplier of strength and instead relied on the financial market as a source of provision (which today is being severely shaken). We have put our political leaders forth as people who can save us from disaster (which not one leader has ever done so).
Instead we should turn back to the Lord and give ourselves to Him. That is the correct answer. And the Apostle Paul made it clear where we should land when he wrote the Corinthians:
“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV
The Church finds itself in the midst of a very important question. What are we going to rely on as enemies gather or difficulties arise? Are we going to rely on our own strength? Or are we going to rely on the Lord?
My prayer is that we may stand firm in Him and let nothing move us from the one true foundation. For the work of the Lord will never be in vain. We all have been called to a worthy calling and each one of us who believes is part of the seven things Henry says was made before the foundation of the world—the just ones.
Therefore let us rely on the Lord to defend us, for we have already been defended by our Lord Jesus Christ.
Prayer requests
Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job
Greg – pray for the country, pray for families who are under attack by the enemy
Ernie – pray for recovery of his grandson from cancer surgery, pray for Sarah Palin that she will be strengthened by Him
Calvin – pray for starting a practice here in the state of Washington, pray for making the right decisions, pray for more God fearing men to lead this country
Richard – pray for continued strength
Paul – pray for the Northshore bookstore ministry, pray for guidance and discernment on things which may be coming their way
Tim W – pray for the country during difficult times
Vince – pray for continued health, pray that God will help him with medical insurance
Mark – pray for this group that it will continue to impact people for Him, pray for Bill and his recovery from the surgery he had last week, pray that I may be a better parent and lead them to God, pray for strength in following the Lord
***Pray as Northshore begins new ministries this fall to help encourage others grow in their relationship with God
Continued prayer needs
Steve – pray that this group will grow to affect others and make a larger impact on the church
Bill M – pray that all of us here in the Church will be able to witness effectively, pray that his surgery will go well tomorrow, pray for his wife will be given peace and comfort during this time
Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school this week so they may learn and become better students
Kevin – pray for his youngest daughter and her boyfriend that they make smart choices, pray for exwife
David – pray that he will be able to serve in the children’s ministry and make a difference in the lives of kids
Ralph – pray that he will be able to surrender to God in everything
Larry Miller – pray that the marriage ministry will make an impact on the couples who attend Northshore
Ramon – pray that God will continue to give him strength
Tim H – pray for his wife to find her ministry
Gary – pray for strength as he works through all the various stresses of life, pray for the health of his wife
Sky – pray for some financial help and that he can help make some additional income for the family
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in joining with others in fellowship, pray God will comfort him during times of loneliness
Joe – pray for all the military members who are in harms way for their safety and quick return
Kelcy – pray for all the pastors and leaders within the Church
Brent – pray that he will find clarity and guidance for finding the right person to marry
Brett S – pray for healing of liver disease
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Carmine – pray that he can deal with the stresses of work
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
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
**** Wednesday, October 8th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church
Wednesday, October 15th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, October 22nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, October 29th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, November 6th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Group Happenings
I want to thank Tim Dresler for leading the group while I am leading CTL. Therefore we are able to meet every Wednesday night to go further in our study of the Word, fellowship with one another, and prayer… Join us when you can!!
In the coming weeks we are going to lay out the topics a little more in advance. Both Tim and I agree that we need to stay far enough ahead to give all of us the opportunity to dig deep into the word so that all of us may be transformed…
Always know that I stand beside all of you 24/7 as we continue on this journey together…
Please keep October 9th open for the Prayer Connect event which is taking place at Northshore. I will not be able to make it because of a family commitment, but I believe it will be a great opportunity for all of us to come together and pray for the Church.
Memory Verse
“But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” 2 Chronicles 15:7 NKJV
“He has taken away the covering of Judah. In that day you looked to the weapons of the House of the Forest, and you saw that the breaches of the city of David were many. You collected the waters of the lower pool, and you counted the houses of Jerusalem, and you broke down the houses to fortify the wall. You made a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the old pool. But you did not look to Him who did it, or see Him who planned it long ago.” Isaiah 22:8-11 ESV
I will be completely honest, for the past week I have been struggling through my Bible reading plan. It isn’t because I have not read the particular chapters I was to have read. Nor is it from my lack of journaling because almost every day I was writing something down after I read the Scriptures.
Instead, most of my struggle has been because I feel like I have been walking through a dry season. It was difficult to hear the voice of the Lord through the Scripture this past week. Distractions at times have got the best of me and I am sure all of you at times can relate…
Then came Friday night when I was with some Christian brothers and sisters. We shared some time in the Word, some time in prayer, and some time just talking and encouraging one another. At first it was simply something on my calendar to look forward to, but when I left I realized this visit was God ordained and was much more. It was as if someone flipped on a light switch and everything started to come together. This is a clear testimony to the power of small groups and how important Christian fellowship is in your daily walk with the Lord…
Yet there was something deeper to learn from this past week and God revealed it during my time in the Scripture on Saturday; because all of us try to do things our way and try to find God where we want to find Him. This was definitely my self-diagnosis the past week as I worked through a dry season in my devotions.
The prophet Isaiah realized this same diagnosis about the people of Israel when he wrote Isaiah chapter 22. He was sharing oracles against foreign nations about how the judgment of the Lord was upon them in the previous nine chapters when he stops and gives warning to the people of Jerusalem. Because the people of Israel were not relying on the Lord for their defense, instead they making provisions based upon their own resources. They were trying to go it alone and believe they could protect themselves without God. They were essentially looking toward God only where they wanted to find Him.
But during the midst of their pride they forgot Psalm 125:2 which said, “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people both now and forevermore.” Instead their focus became inward and they began to put their faith more in themselves, then in the Word of God. They were literally destroying households to build a wall against their enemy, uprooting families to defend something which God already promised to defend.
Matthew Henry, a 18th Century theologian, made mention there were seven things which God made before the world (meaning which He had in his eye when He made the world): the Garden of Eden, the law, the just ones, Israel, the throne of glory, Messiah the Prince, and Jerusalem. All of them were fashioned before the foundation of the world. Not one of them would God fail to protect or uphold. Regardless to this fact mankind because of its pride still believed the solution was within them.
Today this attitude still exists because all we have to do is look at our own country to see how we have attempted to fortify the wall. We have destroyed the family unit in defense of moral relativism (which today has shown its worth in broken homes across America). We have removed God as our supplier of strength and instead relied on the financial market as a source of provision (which today is being severely shaken). We have put our political leaders forth as people who can save us from disaster (which not one leader has ever done so).
Instead we should turn back to the Lord and give ourselves to Him. That is the correct answer. And the Apostle Paul made it clear where we should land when he wrote the Corinthians:
“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV
The Church finds itself in the midst of a very important question. What are we going to rely on as enemies gather or difficulties arise? Are we going to rely on our own strength? Or are we going to rely on the Lord?
My prayer is that we may stand firm in Him and let nothing move us from the one true foundation. For the work of the Lord will never be in vain. We all have been called to a worthy calling and each one of us who believes is part of the seven things Henry says was made before the foundation of the world—the just ones.
Therefore let us rely on the Lord to defend us, for we have already been defended by our Lord Jesus Christ.
Prayer requests
Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job
Greg – pray for the country, pray for families who are under attack by the enemy
Ernie – pray for recovery of his grandson from cancer surgery, pray for Sarah Palin that she will be strengthened by Him
Calvin – pray for starting a practice here in the state of Washington, pray for making the right decisions, pray for more God fearing men to lead this country
Richard – pray for continued strength
Paul – pray for the Northshore bookstore ministry, pray for guidance and discernment on things which may be coming their way
Tim W – pray for the country during difficult times
Vince – pray for continued health, pray that God will help him with medical insurance
Mark – pray for this group that it will continue to impact people for Him, pray for Bill and his recovery from the surgery he had last week, pray that I may be a better parent and lead them to God, pray for strength in following the Lord
***Pray as Northshore begins new ministries this fall to help encourage others grow in their relationship with God
Continued prayer needs
Steve – pray that this group will grow to affect others and make a larger impact on the church
Bill M – pray that all of us here in the Church will be able to witness effectively, pray that his surgery will go well tomorrow, pray for his wife will be given peace and comfort during this time
Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school this week so they may learn and become better students
Kevin – pray for his youngest daughter and her boyfriend that they make smart choices, pray for exwife
David – pray that he will be able to serve in the children’s ministry and make a difference in the lives of kids
Ralph – pray that he will be able to surrender to God in everything
Larry Miller – pray that the marriage ministry will make an impact on the couples who attend Northshore
Ramon – pray that God will continue to give him strength
Tim H – pray for his wife to find her ministry
Gary – pray for strength as he works through all the various stresses of life, pray for the health of his wife
Sky – pray for some financial help and that he can help make some additional income for the family
Craig – pray that he will become more diligent in joining with others in fellowship, pray God will comfort him during times of loneliness
Joe – pray for all the military members who are in harms way for their safety and quick return
Kelcy – pray for all the pastors and leaders within the Church
Brent – pray that he will find clarity and guidance for finding the right person to marry
Brett S – pray for healing of liver disease
Dick – pray for gluttony issues, pray for strength to deny self by helping him submit to the Lord
Carmine – pray that he can deal with the stresses of work
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
Chad – pray for continued seeking of purity in his life
Future Meetings
**** Wednesday, October 8th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church
Wednesday, October 15th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, October 22nd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Wednesday, October 29th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church
**** Wednesday, November 6th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church
Group Happenings
I want to thank Tim Dresler for leading the group while I am leading CTL. Therefore we are able to meet every Wednesday night to go further in our study of the Word, fellowship with one another, and prayer… Join us when you can!!
In the coming weeks we are going to lay out the topics a little more in advance. Both Tim and I agree that we need to stay far enough ahead to give all of us the opportunity to dig deep into the word so that all of us may be transformed…
Always know that I stand beside all of you 24/7 as we continue on this journey together…
Please keep October 9th open for the Prayer Connect event which is taking place at Northshore. I will not be able to make it because of a family commitment, but I believe it will be a great opportunity for all of us to come together and pray for the Church.
Memory Verse
“But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” 2 Chronicles 15:7 NKJV
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