Sunday, December 27, 2009

     The beautiful, snowy landscapes only enhanced our enjoyment of the Sunday morning service.  The road conditions and holiday travels prevented many of the faithful from being able to attend the morning service but we were blessed with a very good attendance.  The saints were filled with excitement and stories of how God had blessed their family gatherings.   

     We were led in worship by Valerie Hoffecker as her husband, Andy, accompanied her on the keyboard.  Debbie Wood assisted Valerie on vocals.  Playing the bass guitar was David Way and Coleman Petree played the drums.  Following the congregational music Valerie and Andy Hoffecker blessed us as they sang, “Lord, I Believe in You.”  We are thankful for all our talented musicians, singers, sound technicians and computer operators who are so faithful to use the talents that God has given them.  Are you using the talents that God has given you to bring glory to Him?

    Pastor Josh brought the morning message in the absence of Pastor Roger.  He reminded us of the importance of faith in our daily walk taking his text from Hebrews 11 and Mark 11.  We have each been given a measure of faith and that faith will cause us to cry out to an awesome God.  Faith is an action and not mere words.  Faith believes that what we pray will come to pass and cause us to put action to our faith. 

     We must also understand that God allows us to go through trials so that we can grow in Him.  We need to surrender to the process and allow God to work through us in times of trials.  Instead of focusing on trials we need to disciple ourselves to focus on God and His promises.  If we shift our focus from God then the enemy has us where he wants us.  In the New Year, dare to be different than others; strive to set and live out godly goals in your life.