Lose Your Life

"Jesus said that if you are not willing to give up your life for His sake and His Kingdom, you will lose it ( Luke 9:24) . But if we deny self ; if we follow the example of Christ and put the welfare of others before our own desires; if we repudiate self and give our lives for the salvation of others , we will find our lives and, in the end come out winners~~ Leroy Elms"

Urgent Need

There is a family of six that is in URGENT need of food or gas cards.There is also a need for girls clothing, size 18 husky. The mother of the family has gotten a new job, but won't get a paycheck for another few weeks. This is a very time sensitive need. If you're able to help, please bring stuff to Stephanie Simmons on either Wednesday night or Sunday. Anything that you can do will be very much appreciated.

Thanks!

Paradox

"It is not what we do that matters, but what a sovereign God chooses to do through us. God doesn’t want our success; he wants us. He doesn’t demand our achievements; he demands our obedience. The Kingdom of God is a kingdom of paradox, where through the ugly defeat of a cross a holy God is utterly glorified. Victory comes through defeat; healing through brokenness; finding self through losing self. -- Charles W. Colson

The Fruit of Faithfulness

“The fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness...” Galatians 5:22b

 Faithfulness flows from the fruit of the Spirit’s vine with divine fidelity. It is the ability to stay the course in a crisis or to correct a corrupt circumstance. Faithfulness is a personal resolve to stay committed in marriage through “sickness and health, richer and poorer and to death do us part.” Faithfulness feels a compelling call from Christ to stay put in a career, especially when it’s not easy, knowing perseverance leads to righteous rewards.
 
Are you at the crossroads of a commitment? Will you remain faithful, even though it is unfair and hard? It is easier to follow Jesus when He heals and forgives. It is harder to be a dedicated disciple when you are persecuted for your faith and demeaned for doing good. However, because Christ remained faithful to the Cross, on the Cross and after the Cross, you remain faithful to bear your cross for Christ. Faithfulness finds faithfulness by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
 
“What if some were unfaithful? Will their unfaithfulness nullify God’s faithfulness?” Romans 3:3

Moreover, make sure to keep your eyes on Jesus, not on the unfaithfulness of others. People will let you down; so do not place them on a pedestal. A friend’s unfaithfulness, even betrayal is your opportunity to remain faithful, as you lean into the Lord’s faithfulness. Scared friends may scatter and an insecure family member may gossip, but you still model loyalty to those you love. Love is faithful in the face of unfaithfulness.
 
Furthermore, you can rely on the faithfulness of your heavenly Father. He is faithful when you are not faithful. He is faithful to give you courage when you face fearful situations. He is faithful to give abundant grace in your time of great need. He is faithful to give you wisdom for the best decision. He extends you mercy, so you can be merciful. The Lord’s faithfulness facilitates your faithfulness. So, stay faithful to Him and them!

“Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.” Psalm 86:11
                                                                                                            -Boyd Bailey

Engage Jax

EngageJax Conference - September 9

On Sunday evening, September 9 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, we will be hosting here at First Baptist Church of Orange Park, the annual EngageJax Conference. This annual conference is sponsored by the network of churches in the Jacksonville Baptist Association. This year, the focus is "Domain Engagement."
Our guest speaker this evening will be Bob Roberts, Sr. Pastor of NorthWood Church in Keller, Texas and Chief Visionary Officer of Vision360. For a better description of how the church must embrace domain engagement, watch Bob in the video linked here.
This concept is key to winning this city and community for Christ.
Mark your calendars and get your child-care secured (there's no child-care available at the church this evening) and plan to join up to 200 other churches this evening.
Leading us in worship this evening will be Ascension Worship. This group of worshippers from various Jacksonville-area churches, are gifted and anointed by God. The worship is fresh and worthy of the One who is our audience

"I think it is valuable to be poked at and I think - and this is obviously where things are headed-it's going to be much harder to be a Christian in America … which means to be a Christian you actually have to think it's worth it. You actually have to think it through, you actually have to process it." - Phil Vischer
"And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."- Luke 9:23

Isaiah 41:10

Class Input Needed A.S.A.P

Class Camping Trip:
The camping trip is the last weekend of September. Please contact Stephanie A.S.A.P to let her know if you will be going or not, so that extra treehouse cabins can be released.

Pastor Appreciation Dinner:
The dinner is coming up in October. We are not anywhere close to what is needed financially to prove the dinner. If the class as a whole isn't interested in doing the dinner, Stephanie needs to know so that that time can be released on the calendar.

Gospel Project:
Please let Terry of Stephanie know you preference regarding material (download, internet, iphone app., or paper book) this week.

The Outcasts

Unashamed Hope

No one whose hope is in You will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse. Psalm 25:3

 We are shameless when our hope is in our Savior Jesus Christ. Hope in Jesus resides in a no shame zone. We have nothing to be ashamed of when our hope is in heaven. Others may make fun of our simple faith, but they cannot shame us. Ironically, critics of faith are the ones to be ashamed. They are without hope. Hope outside of Christ is a caricature of positive expectations. Misplaced hope is a shame. It is a sham. It leads to deep disappointment and disillusionment. Shame is the reward for sin. On the other hand, freedom is the fruit of hope. We have nothing to be embarrassed about when we hope in the eternal. We have something solid to look forward to when we look to the Lord for hope and encouragement. Hope in Jesus is never put to shame.

However, hope is often related to our hurt. It is out of our pain that hope in Christ seems the most compelling. Our pain from suffering produces a need and a capacity for hope. Suffering enlarges the heart by creating the power to sympathize. When we have lived in poverty, we have more of a tendency to empathize with the poor. When we, or a loved one, have combated disease, our prayers are on the lookout for the ill. When we have seen our families ripped apart by death or divorce, we have a soft spot in our hearts for a single parent and the children. It is in our hope that we are able to extend hope to the hopeless. We can be grateful for the occasional grief we encounter if it saves us from hopeless hard-heartedness. Hope-filled hearts are on the lookout for those seeking the Lord. So it is out of our hurt that hope comes alive for others and ourselves.

Furthermore, our hope is reserved for us in heaven. Our heavenly Father owns our hope. He is an owner whom we never have to be embarrassed about. Our Savior’s hope will never bring shame to our situation. No rational thinking person would say, “What a shame that Christians have forgiveness of their sins, abundant living on earth and the hope of heaven.” If anything, people without hope may be jealous and ashamed of their own hopeless condition. Lastly, the Lord dispenses hope liberally and indiscriminately. Jesus is not stingy with hope. He extends hope as a generous giver, gladly and cheerfully. It gives God great joy to give hope to His children. His part is to give; our part is to receive.

So heaven’s hope is alive and well. It is waiting for the engagement of faithful followers of Jesus. Like a secret garden accessible by faith alone, there is a luscious environment of hope for our enjoyment. We can sit and smell the flowers of God’s faithfulness. We can bite into the deliciously juicy fruit of God’s peace. We can stand without fear in the warm light of the Lord because we are full of hope. Hope lifts the veil of shame and replaces it with the face of encouraging expectations. Pessimism is replaced with optimism. Inertia is replaced with energy. Excuses are replaced with ambition. Defeat is replaced with victory. We can be extremely grateful and unashamed that our hope is in Jesus. Hope may be lost for a season, so do not be ashamed to continually seek the Lord. Seek Him while He can be found (Isaiah 55:6). You will find hope in Him. Hope is God’s way to love and encourage you and others. Hope is not ashamed. -Boyd Bailey

The Presence of God

We (Christians) are always in the presence of God. There is never a non-sacred moment! His presence never diminishes. Our awareness of His presence may falter, but the reality of His presence never changes. ~~Max Lucado

Conviction vs. Condemnation

When God speaks to us about our sin it is to convict us, when the devil speaks about our sin it is to condemn us. The word sin means to ‘miss the mark.’ Its origin lies in archery. If you shot an arrow and missed the target, it was called ‘sin!’ By how far you missed was not the issue. An inch or a mile, it’s still sin.

"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God". Rom. 3:23
We are by nature sinners; we are not what we were created to be. Both God and the devil speak to us about sin – but they speak very differently. God convicts us of sin, whereas Satan condemns us. The devil is called, ‘the accuser of our brothers and sisters’ (Revelation 12:10). Condemnation sits on us like a wet blanket, with no way out. When God speaks to us about our sin, He convicts. Conviction not only makes us aware of our sin, but also points to a way out – through the cross of Christ. He convicts us not to humiliate us, embarrass us or condemn us, but to liberate us and set us free.

Paul is able to confidently write, ‘There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.’ (Romans 8:1). To know that is true is wonderfully liberating.
Has a past sin left you feeling paralyzed? See where that condemnation is coming from, because that voice is not God’s. Thank Him for the forgiveness available in Christ and move forward in peace. - Charles Price

Greenware Needs

We will be collecting baby items for Greenware each Sunday until August. Here is a list of specific items that are  needed:

-Diapers
-Baby Wipes
-Baby Soap
-Baby Clothes
-Baby Blankets
-General Health Supplies for the moms

This is a wonderful way to help someone less fortunate than ourselves!

School Supplies Needed

It's time:

The church is collecting supplies for the schools we sponsor. While any supplies are appreciated, these are some specific needs:

-Clorox Wipes
-Dry-erase Markers
-Dry-erase Board Cleaner
-Tissues
-Hand Sanitizer

Please drop items off on the sides of the stage. Thank you.

Trials

"Every person in the world, including yourself, will encounter various trials throughout life. Satan seeks to defeat you by tempting you to trust your own wisdom, to live according to your self-centered feelings, and to gratify the desires of your flesh. In contrast, God's will is for you to be an overwhelming conqueror in all of these tests for His honor and glory. --Andrew Murray"

Visions of Hope- Fundraiser/Vendor Fair

If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Melissa Brusoe a.s.a.p. to get a vendor registration form. This is going to be a great event! I hope to see you all there!

Walking on Water

Christ walked on the water before He calmed the storm. If He had simply calmed the storm, the disciples would have missed His majesty. And what a shame. His majesty was the whole point. We want Christ to hurry and calm the storm. He wants us to find Him in the midst of it first. --Beth Moore

John 15:5

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NIV) Have you ever really thought about the relationship between a branch and the vine? We don’t use these kinds of word pictures very much anymore, but think about it — if the branch is not attached to the vine, it withers and dies. The very life of the branch depends on being attached to the vine.

6 Steps To Accountability

6 Steps To Accountability:

Believers cannot live the Christian life without the power of the Holy Spirit. But they also cannot live without the influence and support of other believers. In the battle against the flesh, accountability is vital. Here are six steps for establishing an accountability relationship:

1. Begin with prayer, asking God to lead you to the right partner.
2.Emphasize things you share in common. This helps break the ice and creates a context of comfort.
3. Focus on the relationship first. Build the friendship and trust.
4. Commit to transparency and confidentiality. Without these characteristics, accountability relationships will founder.
5. Refuse to harbor offenses. Correction can be painful, but it is necessary. Remember the motivation for the words.
6. Love beyond limits. Make sure this is the driving force of the relationship.

                                                                                            -From (LIVE) your  faith every day-Life Truths

A Way to Serve

There are some needs for the Wood family:

-Lysol Spray
-Gloves (the kind you find in the Dr.'s office. These can be purchased at Walmart)
-Masks (These can also be found at Walmart)

On Sunday, we'll be taking a contribution in our class to be put toward a gas card for them. If you feel led to give in any of these ways, Sunday is the day to do it! Most importantly, please continue to pray for Andrew and his family (Jon and Mandi, their son, Brady, and daughter, Grace) as they go through this tough time.

Understanding

Don't let what you fail to understand about God shake your faith. Instead, cling to the reality of who He is, what He has done, and what He still promises to do in our lives.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding." - Proverbs 3:5

A Ministry Opportunity

The Wood family has a new "normal" at home, due to Andrew's leukemia. As a class, we have an opportunity to serve by bringing in some of the items they will now be needing a lot of. If you plan on contributing, please bring items tomorrow, June 30th. Here is a list of needed items:

-Lysol wipes
-Paper towels
-Bleach
-Face Masks (like you use when you have a cold)
-Sterile Gloves (the kind the doctor uses)

Thank you and please give as God leads you!

Hopeless to Hopeful

“There is hope in your future, says the Lord.” Jeremiah 31:17, NKJV

 In Christ there is hope; outside of Christ there is no hope. Those focused on heaven find hope; those focused on earth find hope illusive. A life lived by faith is hopeful, but a life lived in fear is hopeless. Hope is not just the outcome of an optimist, it is the fruit of those whose security is in their Savior Jesus Christ. Moreover, money messes with the mind as it demands full allegiance to the almighty dollar in exchange for a false hope.

However, we discover authentic hope and freedom in our submission to Christ as Lord and Master of our fate. Deep abiding hope is not a strategy, but a reality when we bow in reverent obedience to God. He does not tease His children with pseudo promises. On the contrary, our heavenly Father gave what was most precious to Him, His Son, so we could become sons and daughters of the most High. Indeed, hope is a gift from God.

“He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32

Where is the root of your hope grounded? In your job or Jesus? With friends or faith? In your home or heaven? In earthly riches or the riches of God’s grace? Satan cannot steal the seed of hope when you plant it in the soil of Scripture. Your hope in Christ is not conditional to circumstances; rather it thrives on trust when assaulted by ambiguity. You move from hopelessness to hopefulness when what matters most, matters the most.

Therefore, be hopeful as a child of God. Your hope in Christ is an advertisement for the Almighty. Those with no hope are attracted to the genuine hope in your heart. Indeed, you are hopeful, because of the origin of your optimism, and the greater purpose of your hope is to bring hope to the hopeless. Suicide shrivels with the prospect of hope. Faith comes alive in Christ and His loving acceptance. Praise the Lord that your hope is alive!

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1:3

                                                                                                       -Excerpt from Boyd Bailey

Strength to the Weak

God is our strength. We go to Him in prayer and are renewed. We read His Word and we are reminded that we are never alone.

Update on Faith

Faith is staying at Wolfson's overnight because she was a little sick. Please pray that she will be able to come home soon and her recovery will be quick. She would love visitors and her family will let us know what we, as a class, can do to minister to them.

Fish Fry

If you're planning on going to the Fish Fry on the 23rd, please remember to bring lawn chairs, beach towels, and a two-liter. See you then!

An Update On Faith

            God is great! As you know, Randy and Corina's daughter, Faith, had brain surgery yesterday. The surgery went well. She is in the PICU area and can have visitors. Faith will be in the hospital for the rest of the week. It has been a tough ride for them and they will need continued prayer and support, but let's all also thank God for giving them the strength and love they needed, for giving the doctors the ability to perform the surgery, and for giving all of us an amazing display of His awesome power. Isn't it comforting  to know that, in the midst of life, no matter what's going on, God's got it?

Disciple, A List

A Disciple:

-A disciple doubts.
-A disciple deceives.
-A disciple denies.
-A disciple forgets.
-A disciple fears.
-A disciple changes lives.
-A disciple is arrogant.
-A disciple denies himself.
-A disciple believes Jesus is Savior.
-A disciple heals.
-A disciple leads.
-A disciple hides.
-A disciple is human.
-A disciple loves.
-A disciple protects.
-A disciple is radical.
-A disciple is lost.
-A disciple is healed.
-A disciple leaves his life.
-A disciple cuts off his ears.
-A disciple follows Christ.
-A disciple gives his life for others.
-A disciple dies for faith.
-A disciple sins.
-A disciple is called to be a disciple.
-A disciple falls away from Christ.
-A disciple gets in the grill of others.
-A disciple has little faith.
-A disciple has no attachment to men.
-A disciple has no attachment to religion.
-A disciple will write.
-A disciple will teach.
-A disciple will lie.
-A disciple will tell the truth.
-A disciple forgives.
-A disciple asks for forgiveness.
-A disciple rants.
-A disciple travels.
-A disciple fasts.
-A disciple questions.
-A disciple hopes.
-A disciple gets angry.
-A disciple does not worry.
-A disciple worries.
-A disciple likes money.
-A disciple doesn't worry about money.
-A disciple has friends.
-A disciple has a church.
-A disciple gives up.

                                  -J.R. Mahon "Starving Jesus" (This list is developed mainly based on Matt., Mark, Luke, and John)

The Making of a Great Faith

Some of the lessons in the making of a great faith:

1. Lesson One: Pray- "When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles." - Psalm 34:17

2. Lesson Two: Trust- "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding".      -Proverbs 3:5

3. Lesson Three: Believe- "Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." -Hebrews 11:1

4. Lesson Four (this the one I have a tough time with): Wait-I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry." - Psalm 40:1

                                                                -Elizabeth George

             
                 
    My thoughts on this:
I was struck by how incredibly simple it is when it's written out like this. So why can this be so hard? I have a hard time waiting on God, but lately I've been seeing how wonderfully amazing his timing is. It's like a big puzzle, without a picture on the  box. Now, when I get frustrated while putting together puzzles, I tend to get out the scissors and try to cut off the edges to make the pieces fit (Jeff doesn't like this, for some reason). I think life can be like that too. You can try to go quickly and make everything fit, or you can wait on God and be totally blown away by the beauty of His picture when it's finally revealed. I know there will still be days when this will be harder for me than on other days, but I am so excited to see His plan- His picture- revealed.

Hate and Divorce

Whenever we see a great discrepancy among Bible translations of certain verses, it is usually because the original Greek or Hebrew is particularly difficult in that verse. Such is the case in Malachi 2:16. Here are some translations:

"If he hates and divorces his wife', says the Lord God of Israel, 'he covers his garment with injustice.'"
                                                                                          -Malachi 2:16 (HCSB)

"I hate divorce, " says the God of Israel..."I hate the violent dismembering of the 'one flesh' of marriage."
                                                                                          -Malachi 2:16 (MSG)

"For I hate divorce! says the Lord, the God of Israel."To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty."
                                                                                         - Malachi 2:16 (NLT)

"I hate divorce," says the Lord God of Israel, "and I hate a man's covering himself with violence as well as with his garment."                                                            -Malachi 2:16 (NIV 1984)

"The man who hates and divorces his wife," says the Lord, the God of Israel, "does violence to the one he should protect."                                                             -Malachi 2:16 (NIV 2011)



Regardless of the translation, God does hate divorce because of what it does to people and society. Even though God's words are harsh, keep these facts in mind: First, God rebuked the rejecting, not the rejected, marriage partner. Second, God does not hate those who have been divorced but rather the heartache and disruption that divorced persons and their families endure.

The Mosaic law does not condone divorce, but it does give instruction for divorce in order to protect women, the vulnerable partners (Deut. 24:1-4). Jesus said God allowed those provisions to regulate the inevitable because of humanity's hard hearts. He declared God's intention for marriage never included divorce; from the very beginning God intended two to become one and never separate (Matt. 19:1-8)

God's perfect will for marriage is one man and one woman together "as long as you both shall live". However, God's perfect grace forgives and restores all people who have not achieved His perfect standards yet have returned to Him. Bottom line- if  you're married, work hard and draw on God's power to uphold His standard of marriage as a lifelong covenant commitment. If you've been divorced, accept His grace and forgiveness and move forward with a commitment to uphold God's standards from this day on.

                                                                                  -Life Truths "For Further Study" (June 10)

How many couples wrote their own vows for their wedding ceremony??

The light of the world

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
                                                                                -Matthew 5:14-16

Love

    What a wonderful difference love makes in our world! And it all started with God. He is the root from which all love springs. John says:

"This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sings." - 1 John 4:10

    Of course, we all realize that God's love is far beyond any love we know of here on earth. Notice, though, what comparison Jesus uses to convey Hi love for us. I am always amazed: "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you"... I can hardly conceive of the idea that Jesus loves me as God the Father loves Him! Yet it is true, for Jesus said it.
    But He goes one step further, asking me to apply this same yardstick to my love. Jesus said:

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." - John 15:12

Now that's difficult! Ask Elizabeth Charles. Sh was born back in the early 1800's, yet I find that what she wrote is as true in the twenty-first century as it was during her lifetime.

"It requires far more of the constraining love of Christ to love our cousins and neighbors as members of the heavenly family, than to feel the heart warm to our suffering brethren in Tuscany or Madeira. To love the whole Church is one thing. To love-that is, to delight in the graces and veil the defects- of the person who misunderstood me and opposed my plans yesterday, whose peculiar infirmities grate on my most sensitive feelings, or whose natural faults are precisely those from which my natural character most revolts, that is quite another."

    Yes, it's hard to love the one who rubes me the wrong way. Yet, that is loving with the grace of God.

"For Christ's love compels us," says Paul (2 Corinthians 5:14). What does His love compel you to do today? How about showing God you love Him by doing something out of the ordinary for somebody who needs encouraging-maybe even someone you don't like? That's loving as Jesus love you.

                                                                                      -Darlene Sala (excerpt)

Relationable Adults

 There is a relational accountability that comes with becoming a follower of Christ; indeed no lone soldiers are in the Lord’s army. Without regular feedback from others, individual Christians are fair game for the enemy’s fiery darts of doubt. Bad habits incubate in a life disengaged from intimate input from a caring community. A life without accountability drifts into irrelevance, but someone fresh from correction grows in emotional intelligence.

Most of us do not enjoy the uncomfortable feeling that accompanies the most loving confrontation. However, we know in our hearts that we need the unfiltered observation of those who care deeply about us. Even if unintended harshness hits our heart we can let go of   it by grace and hang on to healthy instruction by faith. Messengers sent by the Lord are His mouthpiece of protection and wisdom. We get better by digesting doses of truth.

“As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.” 1 Thessalonians 4:1

We all need brothers and/or sisters who are our keepers of character growth in Christ. Many times the Spirit of God uses human vessels to channel His truth for our change. Often a spouse is our most effective heavenly sand paper, because they know us so well. We are wise to embrace their suggestions and their direct concerns, as that is what’s best for us and for our marriage. At work ask supervisors, superiors and peers: “What’s it like to work with me?” Wisdom asks for affirmation, correction and instruction.

Lastly, are you vulnerable with confidants who hold you accountable? Do you have loving friends to ask you how you are really doing, and how you really feel? We grow wiser when others are objectively auditing our actions. Life isolated on a relational island implodes for lack of intimacy. God made you to engage in community; to give and to receive correction and support. Confront others in love and invite trusted advisors to do the same.

“I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.” Romans 15:14
                                                         
                                                                                                        -Boyd Baily (excerpts)

Regarding Needs in Children's Classes

Dear Adult Class Teachers,

 

Our preschool department has three classes that need teachers for the new Sunday School year beginning August 12^th. The “Puppies” 2 year old class, the “Kittens” 2 year old class, and the “Dolphins” 3 year old class all need teachers to serve during the 9:15 Sunday School hour.

 

In the past we have always asked individuals to make the commitment to lead our children, but as we do during each baby dedication, we are now asking the church as a whole to lead our children. Many times people are hesitant to commit to teaching because they feel they are taking on the responsibility alone, so we are trying a little different approach….

 

Would you ask those in your class to pray and ask if the Lord would have them commit to serving as Preschool Sunday School teachers for just one year? And if a couple of people are willing to step out, would your class be willing to come along beside them and support their fellow class members by serving as substitutes when they need them?

 

As an Adult Class Teacher, would you be willing to pray for your class members that they would follow the Lord’s leading? Will you commit to supporting the Preschool Department by taking the time to make this announcement each Sunday during the month of June?

 

We would like to have our teachers in place by July 1^st so we can begin planning for the new year. If anyone has questions about what serving as a preschool teacher is all about, I am happy to talk with them.  Also, if through this discussion your class has questions about other ways they can support the Preschool Department please feel free to contact me. I can be reached by email at preschool@opfirst.org or by phone at 215-3443.

 

Thank you,

Lisa Tharp

Preschool Sunday School Director

Isaiah 41:13

In the midst of our trials, hurts, or even just everyday routines, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Thank you, God, for giving us the help and strength we need to make it through the day, every day.

Living Proof

This month's emphasis of leaving a spiritual legacy for our children has focused on three primary factors: faith, hope, and love. Paul connected the three in 1 Thessalonians 1:3 as characteristics evident in the life of those who are fully committed to Christ. We often talk about these words in church settings, but do we really know what they mean? And more importantly, how do they work together?

The Greek word for "faith", pistis, denotes a supreme confidence in the truth of something. When we have faith in God, we believe that He is exactly as He describes Himself to us.

Agape, "love", is set apart from the other two types of love-brotherly love and romantic love-in that it is the love Christ had for us and the love we should have for others. To agape someone is to love them as Christ loves them: sacrificially, unconditionally, and radically.

The word translated "hope" is the Greek word elpis, meaning "to anticipate". It can actually mean an expectation of fear or evil, but when used in context of the Christian faith, it always denotes something good, such as the expectation of eternal salvation.

Though the words are quite different in their meanings, they have one thing in common: a degree of difficulty. First Thessalonians 1:3 highlights this. It is a work of faith, a labor of love, and endurance of hope. It takes the power of the Holy Spirit working in us to have faith in God and salvation in His Son. And that faith gives us the ability to hope in a future we can't prove in earthly terms. And when we let that faith guide our relationships, we can then genuinely love others through our knowledge of Christ's compassion instead of our preferred relationships or comfortable settings.

These three characteristics of believers don't fall on us when we are saved, we must choose to cultivate them. However, when these elements are observable in the lives of believers, we see Christ revealed in them, evidence to a world in need of Jesus.

"We recall, in the presence of our God and Father, your work of faith, labor of love, and endurance of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ..." - 1 Thessalonians 1:3


From May 27th "Deepen Your Understanding" in Life Truths study

Dress For Success

“Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness,humility, meekness and patience.” Colossians 3:12

 There is an inner attire Almighty God expects His people to wear. They are adorned with an attitude of compassion, kind words, a humble heart, a gentle demeanor, and patience with people and problems. Each day disciples of Jesus choose to clothe themselves with the character of Christ or remain naked to the world’s influences. Chosen people of God gladly put on spiritual apparel for they want first impressions to point people to Jesus.

Jesus loves us lavishly, so we will love, even the unlovely, lavishly. Jesus blankets us with His compassion, so that we will extend the same depth of mercy to those caught up in their cares. Jesus’ kind words, “friend I forgive you” or “I am with you” are examples of how we extend kindness to hurting hearts. His humble heart of service leads us to serve. His gentleness with children changes how we correct and train our children. And Jesus’ patient endurance in adversity gives us hope and faith to persevere.

 “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted." Hebrews 12:3

Are you as conscientious about clothing your inner self with God’s expectations, as you are in dressing to impress the world with its latest fashion statement? Indeed, your outward adornment is an indicator of your inward beauty. So, make sure it is the security of your humble heart that draws attention to your compassionate countenance. Be intentional to cultivate a kind soul, so it spills over into gentle words and patient actions.

"But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.".” 1 Peter 3:4
                                                 
                                                                                     (excerpts from Boyd Bailey)

Funeral Information

For those of you who would like to attend  Keith's funeral, it will be held at Hibernia Baptist Church on Wednesday the 23rd. The viewing will be at eleven a.m., and the service will be at one p.m., with a two p.m. reception on the church campus.

Scott has been in contact with Teresa. The family doesn't need meals at this point but will let us know if they do need anything.Instead of flowers, they would prefer that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Foundation in Keith's name. Please continue to pray for them during this difficult time.

Guidance

 

Spiritual Labor

"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, 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

What is spiritual labor? It is work done with the Lord and for the Lord. It is a new mother rocking her baby, while she prays God's blessing over her little one. It is a blue-collar laborer, who, in Jesus name, is diligent in his or her duties. They are punctual when others are late and they are eager to work more, when others look for ways to work less. Spiritual labor sets high standards of service for the Lord.

Spiritual labor is an executive, a manager or administrative assistant who will not compromise their character to make more cash. Their word is their bond and their behavior points other people to Jesus. We are spiritual laborers when we do our work first and foremost for our heavenly Father. We stand firm in faith-motivated work and when we wake up every day grateful to represent Jesus in our job.

"We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thessalonians 1:3

This describes your public spiritual labor, but you are also called to be consistent in your private spiritual labor. Your personal empowerment by the Holy Spirit gives you courage for Christ and gumption for God. Your quieted soul quietly influences your noisy world. You go deep with Jesus in prayer and He expands your influence at home, in your community, and at your workplace.

Indeed, your spiritual labor is laborious. Thus, as you perspire for the Lord, pray to persevere through rejection and do not be surprised if your integrity irritates others. You continue to toil in trust, even when results are not immediately evident. Your higher calling from Christ fuels your service for Him. Let nothing move you from moving forward with God. Your spiritual labor in the Lord is not in vain, as it brings joy and satisfaction to you, Him, and friends!

"This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things." 1 Timothy 4:9-11
                                                                              -Boyd Bailey

Plans

Jeremiah 29:11

Question about spiritual birthdays

I have a quick question for everyone:
How do you feel about putting spiritual birthdays (month and day only) on either the blog or the facebook page? Please let me know.

James 1:2-3

Pure Joy 

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”  James 1:2-3

 Pure joy is the position and privilege of the person who follows Jesus Christ. Ironically, Jesus-generated joy is discovered and developed in the face of trials. Trials are designed to bring out God’s best and, consequently, your best as well. You’re going through your current trial by fire so that your faith can become more sincere and real during adversity’s affliction. This is your time to experience God’s faithfulness, for His joy and contentment are calming. The presence of Christ gives you reassurance and peace. He is the joy-giver, while Satan is the joy-killer.

Therefore, you can smile, because your smile, while enduring a trial, is the result of pure joy. It’s pure joy because God can be trusted. It’s pure joy because your faith is real and robust and Christ is faithful. It’s pure joy because you will persevere by faith. Indeed, untested faith is a naïve faith. Until your faith has been refined through various trials, it will remain immature and judgmental. You can understand others’ perspectives and respect them more when you have been broken over your own inadequacies and sins. Trials slow you down enough to allow you to look into the mirror and ask what needs to change. How can you lead and serve your family and friends during this time of unprecedented turmoil and tentativeness? Pure joy comes as a result of your faith changing and growing.
   
God is your agent of change. The work of God in and through your life produces pure joy. Change can be painful, but God administers pure joy at the point of your pain. It is the result of the Holy Spirit’s fullness: “And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 13:52). Therefore, learn how to accept the pure joy of the Lord. It is available for you to receive. Do not see your present predicament as a setback. Instead, see your current condition as an opportunity—an opportunity to engage more deeply and more fully with your heavenly Father. Sometimes, it takes trials and tests to slow you down enough to look into the joyful face of Jesus. He is the personification of pure joy.
   
Jesus understood pure joy because He was focused on following the will of His Father (John 17:4). His heart was full of joy because He knew He was about His Father’s business. Yes, His heart broke at times but He suffered out of joyful obedience (Hebrews 12:2). In the middle of His most adverse circumstance, Jesus still cried out to His heavenly Father. His intimacy with the Father was strengthened during difficulty. No person or circumstance, not even the devil, kept Him from pure joy.

Invite the pure joy of God to reign over your anxious heart as well. You can smile and place your refined faith in Him. He is building your faith capacity for the long run. The Bible says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Pure joy does not depend on good circumstances; it thrives during trials and tribulations. Unleash the pure joy that already lives within, for He is faithful. Above all, promote pure joy and persevere in its promise.

Prayer

Jeff saw Bessie's sister today and she asked for extra prayer for Bessie and Grayson today. Jeff doesn't have any details yet, but we all know the power of prayer. I'm adding an additional request: please pray that, through this situation, Bessie will come to know God.

Red Sea Rules

Rule #1 

Realize that God means for you to be where you are. 

Remember, that the Lord had appointed a way for his people. There was not only a guide (Moses), but a way. But where was that way? Mountains blocked them on either side. They could not turn back, for Pharaoh shut up that route. Where should they go? The reedy Red Sea rolled across their front. Hearken! Their way is across the bottom of that sea, and up from its depths to the other shore.

 A strange path! "It is no way at all," cries unbelief. Have you never read concerning God, "Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known." Tried believer, the Lord will make a way for you where no foot has been before. That which, like a sea, threatens to drown you, shall be a highway for your escape.

Psalm 77:19-20

English Standard Version (ESV)

¹⁹ Your way was through the sea,
    your path through the great waters;
    yet your footprints were unseen.^[a]
20 You led your people like a flock
    by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

We are going to face trials, troubles and sorrows. I don’t have the wisdom, I don’t have God’s personal phone number, I can’t tell you why or how things will turn out.
But I can say with confidence that no matter the situation, no matter the sorrow, no matter the trouble you face in this world, there is a God who loves you. There is a God who Provides for you in your time of need.
There is a God who is in control and can give you strength, give you endurance, give you power, give you victory and even overturn any bad situation and use it for His glory.

South African pastor Andrew Murray once faced a terrible crisis. Gathering himself into his study, he sat a long while quietly, prayerfully, thoughtfully. His mind flew at last to Jesus, and picking up his pen wrote these words in his journal:
First, He brought me here, it is by His will that I am in this straight place: in that fact I will rest. Next, He will keep me here in His love, and give me grace to behave as His child.

Then, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me the lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.
Last, in His good time He can bring me out again—how and when He knows.
“The more we trust the sovereignty of heaven, the less we fear the calamities of earth.”

Today the trials may be upon you. If not today, then tomorrow or the next, or next week. They are coming. But you are not alone. God has made a provision for you in Jesus, but only if you receive His gift of forgiveness. Without Him, you can do nothing to overcome your trials.

 

Gift Basket for Jeff's Coworker

  Thank you to everyone who is praying for Jeff's co-worker Bessie, and her son. Thank you also to those who have  contributed to a care basket. We will be delivering it tomorrow. What a wonderful way to show God's love! We are planting seeds and are excited to see what comes of it. Please continue to pray for the health of Bessie's  little one and pray that God will use us to minister to her and show God's love.

See With Their Ears

     A year ago, my husband and I had our first experience with intense weather. A very small tornado ripped through our yard, taking three of six Bradford pear trees that lined our yard yet sparing our house and car. Many areas surrounding our town had damage that was much more extensive while some homes had only one or two branches down. 

     In the days that followed, everyone had an eye-witness story about the tornado, no matter where they were when it hit. If you did not witness the tornado, you were an outsider and not convinced it was as bad as reported. When my husband and I told the story to some relatives who do not live nearby, their response was: "Are you sure it was a tornado?" 

     We love to witness things. The phrase, "I'll believe it when I see it," is all too common. Christians and non-Christians alike often desire to see with their own eyes the miracles of Jesus, meaning that His word is not enough for them. The problem with this thinking is that even if we do witness things, sometimes we still do not believe in the validity of the event. If your favorite baseball team lost to a despised rival and you were there, you still might not believe the other team is better. 

     You and I can't make others believe in Jesus. We can only report what we know to be true about Him. The hearts of non-Christians are out of our control. Does our story sound crazy? Absolutely! Would it help to see some evidence? Maybe and maybe not. Without the power of the Holy Spirit, I couldn't believe in a resurrected Savior. We are only called to testify, not prove. 

 

                                                                                                                         Emily Jennings

Romans 5:8

"Take a stroll out to the hill. Out to Calvary. Out to the cross where, with holy blood, the hand that placed you on the earth wrote the promise, "God would give up his only son before he'd give up on you."
God, may we never be so educated, may we never be so mature, may we never be so religious that we can see your passion without tears. Sunday's coming!!" 

A friend of mine put this as a status update on her facebook page, and I really felt that I needed to share it. I still have a hard time grasping the enormity of what was given. For me. Praise God, whose love knows no bounds!

"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners , Christ died for us."
                                                                                               -Romans 5:8

"Jesus Rose From the Dead"

Much of this week's lesson has an apologetics feel to it.   Is there rational, reasonable evidence to support the incredible claim that Jesus rose from the dead? A fun way to introduce the lesson would be to talk about popular conspiracy theories that abound today. UFO's. Elvis sightings. Astronauts didn't really land on the moon. The list goes on and on. 

One of my son's favorite shows on The Discovery Channel is Mythbusters. Here is a short video from an episode in which the "moon landing was a hoax" conspiracy was debunked. You can talk about some of the other conspiracy theories by following some of these links. But make sure you don't lose the main point/focus of this weeks lesson: 

Why is belief so hard for some people, even when the evidence is overwhelming? 

Top Ten Conspiracy Theories

Resurrection Morning

Matthew 28:1-10 
1 After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, •Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to view the tomb. 2 Suddenly there was a violent earthquake, because an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and approached the tomb. He rolled back the stone and was sitting on it.3 His appearance was like lightning, and his robe was as white as snow.4 The guards were so shaken from fear of him that they became like dead men.5 But the angel told the women, “Don’t be afraid, because I know you are looking for Jesus who was crucified.6 He is not here! For He has been resurrected, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay.7 Then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘ He has been raised from the dead. In fact, He is going ahead of you to Galilee; you will see Him there.’ Listen, I have told you.”8 So, departing quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, they ran to tell His disciples the news. 9 Just then Jesus met them and said, “Good morning!” They came up, took hold of His feet, and worshiped Him.10 Then Jesus told them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see Me there.”

On the Go Devotions

Jesus Rose From the Dead, Part One: Proof of a Guarded Tomb

Background Passages: Matthew 27:57-28:20; Luke 24:13-35

Today's Focal Passage: (Matthew 27:62-66, HCSB)

62 The next day, which followed the preparation day, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate 63 and said, "Sir, we remember that while this deceiver was still alive, He said, 'After three days I will rise again.' 64 Therefore give orders that the tomb be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, His disciples may come, steal Him, and tell the people, 'He has been raised from the dead.' Then the last deception will be worse than the first. 65 You have a guard [of soldiers], Pilate told them. "Go and make it as secure as you know how.66 Then they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting the guard.


Brownie Protection Program

My husband really loves it when I make Cookie Dough Brownies (a specialty of mine). The problem is he does not like it if I make them for other people because I will not let him cut into the perfect 9x13 sheet of goodness.

One night, I made them to take to a ladies event. As I was getting ready for work the next day, he came into the bedroom and made a comment about the brownies sitting innocently on the counter. I grinned and kept working on my hair. The longer he talked about them and the more I thought about it, I began to wonder if he would actually take one for his lunch if I left them unguarded. Surely he knows he can't have one. He's never cut into a designated dessert before.
 You could call it erring on the side of caution or merely saving myself a few steps for the evening. Any way you slice it, I scooped up the brownies and put them in the back seat of the car. At church that night, I passed him in the hallway. "So where were those brownies this afternoon?" he asked. "Safely out of your reach," I said. "You didn't really think I was going to take them, did you?" I smiled and replied, "You looked for them, didn't you?"

Honestly, I don't think he would have taken one, but I had to be sure. The Pharisees didn't think Jesus would come back to life, but they knew He and His followers absolutely believed He would. An empty grave would confirm it. The Son of God was not a harmless blip on the Pharisees' radar but a force they knew to be reckoned with. Jesus did rise and they couldn't stop Him (even by hiding Him in the backseat).

Emily Jennings

Digging Deeper: The "Swoon" Theory

Modern opponents of Christianity have suggested that Jesus merely "swooned" or passed out on the cross and awoke in the tomb. Again, this goes against the evidence of Scripture. According to John 19:31-34, the professional soldier in charge of hastening Jesus' death before the Sabbath came to Jesus and saw that He was dead; therefore he did not break Jesus' legs, an act that sped up the dying process so the executed would not continue to hang on the cross on the Sabbath. Instead, the soldier stabbed Jesus with a spear, and blood and water came from His side. This is a condition that some people have said indicated death by a heart that literally burst from emotional or physical anguish.

Count it all joy

            We've been seeing God do amazing things in Greater Love Small Group. Tricia made the decision to hand her life over to God! There will be a potluck following her baptism. This is definitely something worth celebrating!
             Many in our class have been going through trials during this past week. It may not seem like it, but it's a good thing. God is working, and Satan doesn't like it (I'm paraphrasing Mitzi here). Here is a verse that encourages me when the going gets a bit tough:

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing".
                           -James 1:2-4

Have a great week!

No Greater Love

Palm Sunday coming this week and as Christians we should remember the sacrifice made by Jesus to willingly lay down his life for you and me!
John 15:13 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

Training

I wanted to share something that's been on my heart a lot lately. People sometimes tell me that my son is sweet and well behaved (I have to be honest, I love hearing that!) and it's because we've been training him to be that way. To train means "to make proficient by instruction and practice". I've been thinking lately: Am I training my son to love and serve God?
Honestly, the answer isn't always yes. Sometimes I get into a "do as I say and not as I do" mindset. I came across this verse:

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."
                                                                                                          -Proverbs 22:6

I tend to struggle in that department most when I'm allowing myself to worry instead of trusting God. The "Crump family verse" is
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding"
                                                                                                           -Proverbs 3:5   
It's something that I, especially, struggle with. I think that worry's been my go-to emotion for so long that it's hard to give up sometimes.But I don't want Simon growing up feeling that he can't trust God or that he needs to worry.
I guess this is my long-winded way of asking for prayer. Not only regarding how I handle stress and worry, but in how I raise Simon, that he will learn that he can trust God in everything.

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
                                                                 - Deuteronomy 6:5

Game Night

 

The rain didn’t restrain anyone from coming to Game Night last night.  This was our second fellowship of this year and the turn out was amazing!!  Of course, being Baptist, there was no shortage of food,  fun or fellowship!  Trish delighted us with some homemade Angel eggs (it was a church event….can’t allow the devil in as Brenda pointed out).  We also had some chicken wings, 6 ft sub, plenty of chips and dip, taquitos, fruit platter and cake.  Oh yes, can’t forget the Oreos….the snack that is equivalent to crack apparently. 

6 Foot Sub

As the games started, Brenda taught us all how to barter on the stock market for the items we wanted in a friendly, but loud game of PIT. We quickly realized that we have some serious negotiators in our group! Not  to mention that Quick Hand Simon was in charge of ringing the bell!
After a few games of PIT, we matched up boys against the girls  for some Pictionary.  While the boys may have won that game, we all  realized that Felicia and Chris are a force to be reckoned with when it  comes to drawing cleaning supplies.  The girls were much more creative  on the pictures they were drawing.  If winning were based on the pictures drawn, the girls would be the winners, hands down!  Simon and Brenda were enjoying their game of Battleship taking place in the Mediterranean Sea apparently because Brenda picked up the accent of the area, informing Simon that he sank her battleship in the best English accent.  The final game was the game of Signs, which simply cannot be explained in this format.  Its one of those games you have to be there to get it.  However, we did realize very quickly that some folks have difficulty focusing and paying attention and that other people make up their own rules as they go…..that’s what makes spending time together so fun!  Spending time with folks, laughing, sharing, having fun and letting your hair down (for those of you who have hair)….that’s what you do with family too huh?  Glad to see so much of the “family” together tonight!  I can only imagine that the upcoming events are going to be as much fun!

This was Pit!! What a blast!!

Are you an Ugli Fruit?

Are you an Ugli Fruit?

Recently I discovered something called Ugli Fruit sold at my local Publix. This stuff is really ugly and does not even look appealing. If you were to look this fruit up on the Internet you would find it described as “Hideous to look at - It is lumpy, frumpy, and has a poor complexion” I mean looking at this fruit in the store you would pass it by because it looks like a grapefruit gone bad on the shelf.

I remember when I first laid eyes on it in the store. I had to ask the produce manager if his Grape Fruit had gone bad. He laughed and told me that it was suppose to look like that and that it was probably the sweetest citrus fruit he had on the shelf. I looked at him like he was crazy and said, "man you must be crazy that stuff looks like its gone bad right here on your shelf". The Produce Manager kind of chuckled but assured me the Ugli fruit was good and the he would even let me try it. I looked at the fruit again as he chose one off the shelf and dug his thumb into the top of the fruit and peeled back the thick skin and separated the fruit from the peeling.

Once he had the fruit opened and the layers of Ugli skin peeled back I noticed how full of juice the fruit was and that it had no seeds and it was really a very beautiful fruit. I took it from him and place the fruit on my tongue and was surprised to taste something that was kind of indescribable as I had never tasted any thing quite like this. I purchased 3 of them that day and vowed to my family if you touch my fruit I will hurt you!!!

Looking back on this I wonder how many of us is like the “Ugli Fruit”. How many of us are sweet once the layers are peeled back.  It’s kind of like this; If I were to just look at you or have a brief encounter with you like I did with the fruit at the grocery store but all I see is this “Lumpy, Frumpy skin with a poor complexion (poor Christ like complexion). Then how likely am I going to want to purchase the fruit (or get to know you)?  In my case the produce manager who had truly experienced the fruit and knew just how sweet it really was and wanted me to know it shared his experience. But let’s say only the stock boy was there the day I went in to purchase fruit and he really did not have the same personal knowledge as his manager and he could only speak of what he has seen or maybe he is new there and thinks the fruit is bad also and decides it should be discarded and thrown away.

God puts it like this: Matthew 7:16-20

English Standard Version (ESV)

¹⁶ You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. ¹⁹  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.

So I ask you then are you being an Ugli Fruit? Are we allowing people to see the special fruit God has created within us? This special fruit is for us to share with others and show them how sweet the love of God can be and how special the message of salvation is for them. If we sit with our arms folded and a sour look and say to ourselves “well they didn’t speak to me so why should I speak to them” it may be that they are afraid even scared to approach you/me if that’s how we look to the new folks around us in small group and in the main service?

So if you are an Ugli fruit, with a rough and tough exterior or maybe your a “Man’s Man” that’s OK but you have to peel back the layers and show the love of Jesus Christ to everyone around you. Then I bet you wont look like that Ugli fruit anymore, you will be that beautiful piece of fruit God intended you to be!!

John 15:4

English Standard Version (ESV)

⁴  Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.