The Wealth of God in us

Coming in January 2009...










Over the last few weeks, God has been setting this study upon my heart...

As the world continues to tell all of us all what we do not have and what we are lacking; as each one of us continue to struggle through tough economic times; as the Church continues to face new challenges; I believe there is no better time then to truly discover all we do have as Christians. We have been blessed beyond measure through our Lord Jesus Christ and by Him have access to all of God's promises.

By studying all the topics covered in the book of Ephesians together in this fellowship of men, my prayer is that all of us will truly come to understand that we have "The wealth of God in us".

Pray that this study will be a tremendous blessing to each one of us, a blessing to the Church, and an opportunity for the Acts 2:42 Men's Fellowship to continue the calling God has placed on all of our hearts...

I invite you to invite others so that through this study, we can minister unto others and share the love of God.

God bless and I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.

In Christ,
Mark

Weekly Message / Prayer Request

Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship

“Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” Luke 12:51-53 NIV

Last week, I noticed an interesting conference which took place at the United Nations in New York City. It was a four-day conference with representatives from 80 countries coming together to discuss religious intolerance and cultural divisions which exist throughout the world’s major religions. The title of the conference clearly identifies its goal: ‘United Nations Interfaith Conference on Culture and Peace’

Now I am a person who certainly believes in dialogue. In fact, many divisions can be healed through open and honest discussions since many problems stem from misunderstanding and confusion over why the other party feels a certain way. Conversation therefore is a good thing and we should definitely respect the call by Saudi Arabia to open up this discussion.

But I have serious concerns over the agenda of such conferences because how far can tolerance really take us? There are certain truths that can never be changed or negotiated.

As Christians, this truth involves our Lord Jesus Christ because He said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 NIV). This is a truth which no Christian can change or negotiate because this is the truth. There is only one way to eternal life, not multiple ways through multiple religions. How can this be negotiated?

Yet this does not stop others in trying because many people see comments like that as intolerant and divisive. Such comments were probably not even heard once during the 96 hours of speeches and meetings because those type of comments do not fit the agenda, even though they are the truth.

Listen to Abdul Rahman H. Al-Saeed a Saudi academic covering the conference: “Some (from many faiths) would prefer to close rather than open minds, to deny rather than accept what we are learning about God's miraculous design of our universe, and to reject rather than acknowledge how those of different religious heritages could receive God's mercy. The process that King Abdullah has launched effectively rebuts their distorted vision.”

I do believe that God shows mercy to all because of His love toward all of humanity. God told us that we shall love our enemies. Therefore I have no reason to doubt that He would not love those who reject His Son.

Yet I believe the Bible clearly shows us this mercy is only extended for a certain period of time, up until the day of judgment. At that time, people will have had to make their choice by either accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal savior or not. People who have not, will not see eternal life. This is the truth, the non-negotiable fact.

Jesus gave all of us this warning when He said:

“Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 12:32-33 NIV

I pray that peace on earth can truly find its way into different parts of the world because conflict rips apart families and brings strife to millions of people. Therefore maybe conferences like this can help establish conversation as the tool to solving disagreements, not war. But we must be prepared as Christians to the fact that Jesus divides.

Charles Spurgeon once said, “Now, what do you suppose is the reason of this intolerance—if I may use the word again? I believe it is just because there is the truth both with the Jew and with the Christian. A thousand errors may live in peace with one another, but truth is the hammer that breaks them all in pieces. A hundred lying religions may sleep peaceably in one bed, but wherever the Christian religion goes as the truth, it is like a fire-brand, and it abideth nothing that is not more substantial than the wood, the hay, and the stubble of carnal error.”

As Christians, we carry the truth. Let us do so with courage, with compassion, with conviction, with understanding, and especially with love. With this light, the darkest of places will be lit with the greatest of all gifts…


Prayer requests

Brett S – pray that he will be able to stay strong in the Word and continue to come back to this fellowship

Calvin – pray that the men of this church will become energized for God and become the backbone for the church, home, and family

Nelson – pray for the President-elect that he will be a man of God, pray for his brother Bob

Richard – pray for reconciliation with his brother, pray that God will help him remove any anger he may be feeling at times

Ernie – pray for wife who is having some health problems and is not feeling well, pray for granddaughter who is having some financial problems

Tim W – pray for wife who is going to Germany to visit parents who may not be doing well, pray that a great deal of success came from the auction which happened on Saturday night

Greg – pray that his family will all find and keep a Godly mind, pray for all the churches who are being persecuted from those against Proposition 8

Dick – pray for continued strength during these times of uncertainty

Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school so they may learn and become better students

Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job

Paul – pray that God will guide him during the moving process and allow everything to go smooth

Mark – pray for the leadership of Northshore that they will continue to make the right Godly decisions for the congregation, pray that I will continue to win the spiritual battles in all the struggles we are facing, pray for this group that it will continue to make an impact for Christ

***Pray that Northshore can continue to make an impact in the local community for our Lord Jesus Christ


Continued prayer needs

Bill M – praise God that everything has been healed from his prostate surgery, pray that he will continue to remain healthy and return to the group next year

Ramon – pray that God will continue to heal his wife Tina and give her strength in the coming days

Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord

Larry Miller – pray that he will be able to find work, pray that he will be able to strengthen the marriage ministry at Northshore

Vince – pray that he can be a Godly example to others

Sky – pray that the move to Bellingham will be smooth and he will be able to attend school up there to pursue some of his goals

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

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

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

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

Monday, November 24th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church

**** Wednesday, December 3rd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Wednesday, December 10th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church

**** Wednesday, December 17th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Monday, December 29th, 7:00-9:00 pm, the annual Christmas/New Year Meeting (Monday meeting) with the location to be determined


Group Happenings

The next two 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. 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"

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

Weekly Message / Prayer Request

Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship

“See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, ‘Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.’ The words ‘once more’ indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.'”

Hebrews 12:25-29 NIV

It seems like everywhere I turn people are talking about the economy. In fact, probably with at least half of the conversations I had with people this past weekend the economy was mentioned at least once. Financial concern is at the forefront of many people’s daily lives, including my own these past few weeks as my employer is also cutting some jobs in our department.

This news is almost inescapable because it affects every one of us. All of us are being touched by financial concerns in one way or another. Therefore I felt God prompting me to write about this issue because I believe this talk should not be minimized in the church. God has always intended the church to be a place of healing and healing can never occur unless pain is first revealed or discussed.

If people are struggling with their finances, then I believe we are all called to pray for them and stand beside those who are hurting. If people are in need of basic necessities, then I believe we are called to provide to those who are in need. If people are in need of someone who will just listen, then I believe we are called to listen. By our love they will all know we are Christians and I truly believe the church is being brought into a glorious position to demonstrate this love to others. My prayer is that of us can demonstrate this love.

Without minimizing the financial struggle that many of us are dealing with, I believe we must also consider what exactly we are facing as a Christians, because the battle we are facing is a multidimensional one. The struggles of this world are exactly that—struggles of this world. They are painful, challenging, and sometimes even without answers. Many times they will cause us to be fearful, stressed, or simply worried.

But with every battle of this world comes a spiritual battle as well, one that can be won or lost regardless to how things turn out here in this life. This is the battle that is significant because everything which matters—hope, love, faith, obedience, ect.—exists within this spiritual realm. If we lose this battle, then we have lost everything which counts. We will have lost everything that God desires us to have and everything that Christ came to give.

This is why the writer of Hebrews says we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken. We have things in this spiritual realm that can never fade or tarnish. For the inheritance which is waiting for us in heaven is based upon whether we win or lose the spiritual battle, not the struggles of this world. Therefore deep down within each one of us, victory is possible no matter how the odds are stacked against us because we are in Christ!

A few chapters earlier, the same writer of Hebrews shared a story about those who suffered, were persecuted, and exposed to great insult by those who did not believe. Then he made this statement which puts the whole spiritual battle into context when he said:

“You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions.” Hebrews 10:34 NIV

These people knew they had a better and lasting possession because they were in Christ. They knew they secured victory in the spiritual battle, even though they lost almost everything of this world. Because they knew there was no lasting value from anything of this world. Everything of lasting value comes from Christ…

I believe this is really important to focus on today as we all face the uncertain economic times ahead. We really need to set our vision upon the real battle—the spiritual one. This is where the front lines are for a Christian and this is the only place where true victory or defeat occurs.

Therefore let us join together in victory by ensuring that each one of us is winning the spiritual battle… the place of true victory… the place rooted deeply in Christ.


Prayer requests

Brett S – pray that he will be able to stay strong in the Word and continue to come back to this fellowship

Calvin – pray that the men of this church will become energized for God and become the backbone for the church, home, and family

Nelson – pray for the President-elect that he will be a man of God, pray for his brother Bob

Richard – pray for reconciliation with his brother, pray that God will help him remove any anger he may be feeling at times

Bill M – praise God that everything has been healed from his prostate surgery, pray that he will continue to remain healthy and return to the group next year

Ernie – pray for wife who is having some health problems and is not feeling well, pray for granddaughter who is having some financial problems

Tim W – pray for wife who is going to Germany to visit parents who may not be doing well, pray that a great deal of success came from the auction which happened on Saturday night

Greg – pray that his family will all find and keep a Godly mind, pray for all the churches who are being persecuted from those against Proposition 8

Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school so they may learn and become better students

Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job

Paul – pray that God will guide him during the moving process and allow everything to go smooth

Mark – pray for the leadership of Northshore that they will continue to make the right Godly decisions for the congregation, pray that I will continue to win the spiritual battles in all the struggles we are facing, pray for this group that it will continue to make an impact for Christ

***Pray that Northshore can continue to make an impact in the local community for our Lord Jesus Christ


Continued prayer needs

Ramon – pray that God will continue to heal his wife Tina and give her strength in the coming days

Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord

Larry Miller – pray that he will be able to find work, pray that he will be able to strengthen the marriage ministry at Northshore

Vince – pray that he can be a Godly example to others

Sky – pray that the move to Bellingham will be smooth and he will be able to attend school up there to pursue some of his goals

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

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

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

Dick – 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, November 19th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church

Monday, November 24th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church

**** Wednesday, December 3rd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Wednesday, December 10th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church

**** Wednesday, December 17th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church


Group Happenings

Over the next three 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. 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"

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

Weekly Message / Prayer Request

Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship

“Behold, we are slaves this day; in the land that you gave to our fathers to enjoy its fruit and its good gifts, behold, we are slaves. And its rich yield goes to the kings whom you have set over us because of our sins. They rule over our bodies and over our livestock as they please, and we are in great distress.

"Because of all this we make a firm covenant in writing; on the sealed document are the names of our princes, our Levites, and our priests.”

Nehemiah 9:36-38 ESV

I am not sure how many people have come up to me this past week saying how disappointed they were about the election. Many people I associate with must have similar convictions because yes, I am also disappointed.

But after a day of mourning, analyzing the results (a.k.a. political junkie), and looking toward the future, my senses came to once again and I realized that we are truly blessed to live in a country where leaders are elected not designated. A place where “we the people” still carries weight, with each one of us having the freedom to shape our own destiny. Today our freedoms still exist while millions of others in this world live under oppression and are slaves to radical regimes.

Yet, this is not the entire story because what if our freedoms are removed? What if all of us lose our rights and end up like those millions who live under tyranny? It could happen because Thomas Jefferson warned early Americans that freedom only exists in a democracy when people are vigilant. And today I have serious questions about how vigilant the vast majority of Americans really are in the everyday ‘workings’ of our government.

But if this would happen and our freedoms are removed, what happens to each one of us as a Christian? Our lives would radically be changed because our lifestyle would be very different then it is today. This could change our Church. This could affect the way we worship. This could alter the way Christianity has existed in this country as we know it.

Thinking about this is important because I believe we must put all of this into perspective. Because there are millions of Christians who are worshiping our Lord Jesus Christ right now who live under regimes which are oppressive toward Christianity or live in places of extreme poverty or are starving because of the lack of basic needs. These people are worshiping God even though their political situation and the civil law they are within does nothing to promote their faith.

I believe we have to come to a fundamental understanding that even though we may be citizens of this great nation, our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). We live under a completely different standard and by a covenant with God which is not of this world.

This leads us this morning to the opening passage from Nehemiah because the whole chapter is an acknowledgment of God’s power, His love, His greatness and ends with a recommitment of the covenant they have with God (‘because of all this we make a firm covenant in writing’).

See Nehemiah understood where their hope rested. Not in this world. Not in any political institution. Not in any freedom the world could offer. He knew that the Israelites needed to recommit themselves to their covenant with God and ask Him to forgive them of their sins. Nehemiah knew that the current world order was irrelevant, even as slaves to an oppressive king, because they we subject to a greater power.

The writer of Hebrews revealed to us the truth about our Lord Jesus Christ. Through Him who spoke all things into existence also sustains His creation and consummates His purpose by His word:

“The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” Hebrews 1:3a NIV

Therefore let us all spend time this week recommitting to the covenant God has so lovingly offered us. For as our country focuses on change, let all of us as Christians do the same and ensure that we have sealed our names on the covenant of our Lord Jesus Christ through repentance and prayer.

The Church has been put in a glorious position. But we must be prepared for those times when He is ultimately glorified through us. My prayer is that this will become a week of reflection and a time when all of us are preparing for those future moments.

For we are all in this world, but not of this world. Rejoice not in the power Christ has given us, but always rejoice that are names are written in heaven (Luke 10:20), where our true citizenship rests.


Prayer requests

Calvin – pray that this group will begin to reach more men who are hurting and are without the Lord, pray for brother-in-law Chris that he may come to the group/church eventually and come to find the Lord

Richard – pray for the election, pray that his wife will find comfort and healing while she is dealing with some health problems

Bill M – praise God that everything has been healed from his prostate surgery, pray that he will continue to remain healthy and return to the group next year

Ernie – pray for granddaughter Deana who was recently released from the hospital

Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord

Larry Miller – pray that he will be able to find work, pray that he will be able to strengthen the marriage ministry at Northshore

Greg – pray that he can be a better Christian example to his family and to others

Ramon – pray that God will continue to heal his wife Tina and give her strength in the coming days

Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school so they may learn and become better students

Sky – pray that the move to Bellingham will be smooth and he will be able to attend school up there to pursue some of his goals

Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job

Paul – pray that God will guide him during the moving process and allow everything to go smooth

Vince – pray that he can be a Godly example to others

Mark – pray for our finances as we still continue to struggle in making ends meet, pray that I will remain focused on Him and that I can win the spiritual battles which have come my way, pray that the Lord can continue to use me for his glory, pray for Mark in Afghanistan who is dealing family trouble, pray for Iris who was with the Children's Ministry earlier in the year who is in critical condition in Italy after delivering her child

***Pray that Northshore can continue to make an impact in the local community for our Lord Jesus Christ


Continued prayer needs

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

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

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 that he will be able to find strength and healing

Dick – 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, November 12th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church

**** Wednesday, November 19th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Monday, November 24th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church

**** Wednesday, December 3rd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Wednesday, December 10th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church


Group Happenings

Over the next four 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. 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"

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

Weekly Message / Prayer Request

Acts 2:42 Men’s Fellowship

“Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, ‘As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.’” Luke 21:5-6 NIV

It has been a few weeks since we have last met in this forum because last week my entire family was sick with strep throat, ear infections, and everything else. The only one of us not to get sick was our four-month old son Matteo, who just smiled and looked at the rest of us on the couch who was barely able to move. But thanks to your prayers we have managed to get well and begin another week healthy.

And I am very thankful for this opportunity, because tomorrow is a very significant day in our country and therefore the lives of all of us. As I am sure you are all aware, tomorrow is the election and the choice we make as President will be a significant one because each candidate is planning on taking the country in a very different direction.

So what type of post would rise to this historic occasion this morning? What can be said which would put things in the proper perspective as a Christian? There are no elections recorded in the Scriptures that are like the one we are about to experience. Therefore the event may be unique and not have any direct Biblical reference we can cite.

Yet I believe there is moment in the scriptures which can really help put things in perspective. It was when the disciples were remarking about the temple on how beautiful it was and where Jesus gives His prophetic warning about its forthcoming destruction in Luke 21.

To the disciples, this was the world as they knew it. The temple was the center of their worship to God. It was the place linked to their historic past and their connection to King David. Everything revolved around the temple and it became the cultural center to Judaism throughout the known world. So when the disciples saw the temple, they we astonished about how beautiful it was.

Today I believe we look at things sometimes through very similar eyes. Instead of our eyes falling on the temple, our eyes fall on the economic pillar of this country. Today we find ourselves in a world dominated by economic talk and the material possessions which line our store fronts. Materialism becomes the standard to which this economic system is built to live by. What is the latest ‘hot’ item for Christmas? What is the latest fashion? This is the world we know and understand…

But Jesus’ warning to the disciples was clear, do not glory in what man can do or achieve; do not glory in something that man can build because it is only temporary. The temple reflects more upon what is of this world, not what is of God. Jesus made it clear to the disciples that it would all come to an end, one of destruction; yet He would reign forever in each one of us.

And I believe we must keep this as our clear focus this election because ultimately tomorrow will not matter in the eternity of things. Elections are events which man has created (much like the Temple during the disciples’ time) and they are the way we choose our leaders. But they are only temporary and always fall under the providence of God in the fulfillment of His ultimate plan.

Therefore we need to remind ourselves of what the Apostle Paul told the Corinthians about the glory of the Lord:

“But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption—that, as it is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.’” 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 NKJV

Brothers, it is easy to look at the economy and become discouraged. Many of us are dealing with tough financial questions on how to better strengthen our economic standing in tough economic times. Even the church is going through a rough stretch of negative economic news. And many of us are looking toward this election as a referendum on which direction is best for our economy.

Yes this is our civic duty as Americans, but I believe we should not marvel over the economic pillar of this country and set our complete attention on the economy as our reason for being. This will someday all pass away.

Let us instead glory in the Lord this election and know where our eternity resides. Let us not plan our direction as a church on the economy or on a candidate, but make our decisions based upon the calling of the Lord. For God has made it clear that we are all called to make disciples of all nations not based upon a budget, but based upon the truth.

May we all pray that He will reveal this truth and the direction He desires us to follow as a Christian, as a Church, and as a nation…


Prayer requests

Calvin – pray that this group will begin to reach more men who are hurting and are without the Lord, pray for brother-in-law Chris that he may come to the group/church eventually and come to find the Lord

Richard – pray for the election, pray that his wife will find comfort and healing while she is dealing with some health problems

Ernie – pray for granddaughter Deana who was recently released from the hospital

Steve – pray for guidance in walking with the Lord

Greg – pray that he can be a better Christian example to his family and to others

Tim D – pray that he will be able to find a new job

Paul – pray that God will guide him during the moving process and that He will guide him during all of these decisions

Vince – pray that he can be a Godly example to others

Mark – pray that I will be able to bring more Christian joy to the family, pray that I will be able to lead with more strength, pray for the coming election

***Pray as Northshore begins new ministries this fall to help encourage others grow in their relationship with God


Continued prayer needs

Bill M – pray that he will continue to heal well from his surgery

Stephen G – pray for strength in teaching kids at school so they may learn and become better students

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 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, November 12th, 7:00-9:00 pm, regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church in Room C214 on the Academy side of the Church

**** Wednesday, November 19th, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Monday, November 24th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church

**** Wednesday, December 3rd, 7:00-9:00 pm, meeting with Tim Dresler at Northshore Christian Church

Wednesday, December 10th, 7:00-9:00 pm, (Monday meeting) regular meeting at Northshore Christian Church


Group Happenings

Over the next four 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"

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