Thursday, October 18, 2012

OK! I know it has been awhile since I have written on this blog. I had complete my thesis. The research and writing was time consuming so the "extras" had to wait. The last several months I have been reminded of how little control we have of things in our life. I try to stay physical fit by running and eating the proper foods. I try to stay spiritual fit by prayer, study of the Word, and accountability with others. The educational process has helped with mental fitness (my Dad told be I would be a "professional student"). But with all of our efforts we are still completely dependent on God. He is the Creator and Sustainer of our life. Just when you think you have it all "figured out" something comes along that you cannot understand or control. I believe God is once again reminding us to trust Him! I preached a sermon recently entitled, "Dependent or Independent?" Many of us want to live our lives independently but it is so much easier when we are dependent on God!

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

That Was Different

The last several Sundays have been really different for me. I had to spend several days in the hospital and then for several weeks I could not preach. Since I started ministry in 1983 I have always been in church, in ministry, except for 5 Sundays I can remember. God has truly been good to me! I had to sit and watch, via the internet, worship services at church. They were great! One of the services was the Sanctuary Choir's Christmas Worship Service! I was also able see the Christmas Day service and hear my daughter and son-in-law sing! Brother Phil Whiteaker preached an excellent message. I sat on my sofa and watched but it was NOT the same as being there. I am a dogmatic supporter of the local church. When I was in the hospital none of my favorite radio or podcast ministers came to see me. None of them sent be a card or made a phone call to ask how I was doing. I did not have any of them deliver a meal to by home. But I did have a church family who prayed, visited, and supported me through it all! All of us will face difficult and trying times in our life! God, through His Son Jesus Christ, ordained the local church to help us through this life! If you are not a part of a caring, thriving local church-Find one! Come to ours! The local church is just another way God has provided for His children. THANKS to First Free Will Baptist Church of North Little Rock!