A Prize Worth Fighting For - Rachel Wydick, Singer and Writer

What are you fighting for?
In life, in the everyday cycle we’re all living.
At the end of each day, what makes you say “that was worth it”?

Think about that for a second......

1 Corinthians 9:22-27 (NIV) says:

To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Wow! That’s some serious dedication you got there, Paul! Becoming all things to all people, running hard after the prize, beating your flesh into obedience?! You mean I gotta do all that fighting, all that work to win the prize? Better be a pretty good prize, right?! Well, folks, I’ve got good news for you! This “prize” that Paul is speaking about is not just “pretty good,” it is completely and totally 100% worth the fight!

What is this prize you may ask?

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. - Philippians 3:7-9 NIV

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. - James 1:12 NIV

The prize is knowing Jesus! The prize is the crown of life and eternity spent with the creators of the universe! Let that sink in... God, who created everything, who breathed life into you, who see’s your every sin, who knows your thoughts before you even think them - that God! He is who you are going to stand before when this vapor of a life is finished, and He is going to give you a crown of life, eternal life! What?!

Church, when we shift our focus heavenward, having an eternity mindset, everything changes! All of a sudden, the trials and hardships we are fighting through seem to dim in the light of who He is! And who we are in Him. We start looking at everything as an opportunity to serve Him, to serve other people. Because the awe and amazement at the crazy love that He extends to us is so overwhelming, it spills over into everything we do! And it strengthens us in the fight!

And this is a fight! Make no mistake. He promised that we’d have troubles. He told us it would be a hard fight that would require us to give everything. It’s not a once and done thing. It is an every day, get up and choose the straight and narrow, get some battle scars along way kind of fight. We’re in a war. There’s no two ways about it.

But when we fight, we don’t fight alone. He’s next to you! Holding up your sword when you’re too weak to swing it anymore. Whispering in your ear “keep going, I promise it’s worth it. I’m worth it!”

And He is! So, so worth it. All of it - everything you could imagine. He is the prize worth fighting for! Plain and simple, flat out worth it! And praise Him that He chose to extend that prize to us through His blood! Giving us access to Him, forever!

I’m attaching a song that I pray encourages you in the fight! In the race to gain the prize of eternal life with Jesus

Unseen Growth - Rachel Wydick, Singer and Writer

I’ve learned a lot these past few weeks, friends. More free time for me usually means going deeper into the thoughts in my mind (not always a good thing, by the way). And one of the things the Lord has given me a deeper understanding of is growth. Specifically, growth that is unseen.

For quite a while, I've been involved in several ministries within church, and I’ve also been so blessed to go on a couple mission trips in years past. And while these are all great things, things that I definitely felt called to do, I think I’ve allowed them to sometimes become “purpose” and, what’s worse, my relationship with Christ. I busy myself every weekend - and sometimes during the week - with the things that I’m doing FOR God. As if He somehow needs me to accomplish His perfect will! Let’s get one thing straight. God does not NEED me. He WANTS me. So much so that He gave the ultimate sacrifice to have my heart! Wow! Can we just take a second to let that sink in? A God who has absolutely everything (literally) gave everything to know you! Yes, you! Thank you, Jesus!

What does this all have to do with growth? Good question. Since all this craziness started, He’s been calling me, beckoning me. Asking the question will you come and allow Me to grow you in secret? Will you let Me mold you and shape you into who you are really supposed to be, even when nobody is there to see it? Even though no one is listening, will you still worship Me with your whole being? If this lasted forever and nobody got the chance to see how you’ve grown, only Me, would you still let Me send your roots deep into Myself?

All the serving, all the growth and change that people see and speak about is only a fraction of what God is doing. Those things need to come from a soul deeply rooted in Christ. And here’s the thing about roots, you can’t see them. But without them trees and plants wouldn’t be able to survive. They wouldn’t even grow to be seen at all! All the produce we have, that we’re able to enjoy and that sustains our bodies. Cotton and other material used to make our clothes. Flowers and plants used to make medicine. All of these things would be impossible without roots. In the same way, none of our striving and “doing” is worth anything without first allowing ourselves to be “unseen” by any eyes other than our Savior's.

Our most important growing is done under ground. In secret. Only for Him to behold.

Psalm 1:1-3 says:

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither-whatever they do prospers.

When we spend our time meditating on His word, on His laws, that’s where the growth begins! That’s where our roots grow down so deep that they can never be pulled out! When we delight in Him, we become who we really are. Who we’re created to be!

Our purpose is not found in some big career, or even a ministry. It’s found in everyday living and walking in step with the creator of the universe who loves us more than our human selves can fathom! Growth unseen by the world is still growth. He sees you, and He wants you. ALL of you! Not the put together you that you let everyone see, but the you that’s not quite refined yet. The you that He is still watering and nurturing daily with such care and attention - if we’ll only let Him!

Rachel Wydick
May 2020

Current State of Faith - John Clinton, Elder

Today our faith as Christians is being challenged on all fronts. It is especially being critically attacked by those who would make us believe that our beliefs about sin are prejudicial against everything they cherish. While we as Christians stand for what is given to us in the Word and profess our beliefs that these Words were given to us by God, we - now more that ever - need to dig deeper into what we will stand for and what we will stand against.

It is not a matter of whether we offend someone for standing up for righteousness, but rather that we care enough to stand up for their redemption. Don’t get me wrong, we are not to accuse or demean those who do not understand our faith, but rather help them by showing them the love, mercy, and grace that was also given us through Jesus Christ. It takes patience and control of our emotions and tongue. Remember, no one can understand unless they first accept Him as Lord and Savior. Without that, they are without the Holy Spirit's revelation of Jesus’ purpose.

The world wants to label us as unscientific and intellectually clueless because we reject their interpretation of the creation of man and the universe. The world is all about the science, since that is something that is explainable by man. I personally thank God for the science because it is where we can explore and acknowledge the wonders that God has created. But, through science, even the scientists can concede that there is so much more that they don’t understand than what they have learned.

Man makes judgements and claim proofs on that limited knowledge to discredit the existence of God and to make themselves the creators. If we look at how easily we who believe fail, how can we expect those that do not acknowledge God to act any differently than they do? We need to see how much more they need us to deliver the truth through the Holy Spirit. Therein lies our need to be fully prepared and committed to understand God’s Word based on His interpretation through the His Spirit and not our own.

In the days ahead, the real struggle is yet to come…not only for us but for the generations that follow. The world wants to limit our freedom given to us by the Constitution by labeling our teachings as hate speech. Because we speak Biblically about their godless actions, they will challenge our right to express our faith. It’s expected, and we should not cower before the oppression of religion that will come. Even more, we need to make sure we do not conform to their way of thinking. This is not a call to arms but rather a call to faith. Actually, a greater call to love God enough to be obedient to His desire to save the lost. 

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. - Ephesians 6:12 12

I pray that you remain strong and committed to find your purpose of how God can use you during these challenging times. Be prepared on all occasions to offer the truth to those who are lost or confused. Do not speak for the Holy Spirit, but rather let the Holy Spirit speak through you. We need to become like an open window. When we are closed (trying to do it ourselves), others cannot feel the breeze, but open others get the refreshing that the breeze brings.

In God’s love,

John Clinton
April 2020

Perfect Storm - Ken O'Rourke, Elder

Perfect Storm: A rare combination of events or circumstances, creating an unusually bad situation.



One of the first things that comes to mind is a song by Rhett Walker, titled "Mercy." As I listened to this song, I wondered how people would respond to what's been going on with the storm we find ourselves in - known as COVID-19. It has encompassed most of us in some way or another - emotionally, financially, or physically. I wondered how many have turned to God at this time in their lives. Based on our church service live stream numbers, it appears that more are hearing the message than when we were gathering as a community of believers at a local building.

My question then turned to us believers and whether we have come to the end of ourselves. Have we used this time and these circumstances to deepen our relationship with the Lord Jesus? Are we looking to be led by His Holy Spirit to be prepared for the aftermath of what is happening with people's livelihoods, businesses, and worldviews? How will this affect the youth of our state and nation?

I myself have put my trust in Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. This is the foundation I stand upon.

I would encourage all of us to press in to God, not only during the storm, but also after things seem to get back to the familiar. I would ask ourselves is there something more, something better? Am I fulfilling my purpose? What is my purpose?

We have an opportunity to change our circumstances and to change our relationships with one another. Most of all we have the opportunity to change our relationships with God. For some, it may be a new beginning. For others, it will be a returning. And for others, they will deepen their relationships by reading His Word, prayer, and prayer with others.

I'm most looking forward to gathering together once again with my brothers and sisters to worship the living God.

Yours in Christ Jesus,

Ken O'Rourke
April 2020

Be Still & Know - Brian Wilkerson, Elder

As I sit here in my home isolated from friends, family, neighbors, and brothers & sisters in Christ, I am reminded of a time years ago when I was in the hospital and in a fearful situation. During that time I would cry out to God and ask him to heal me and help me to get out of that place. I waited and waited for God to respond. Then God gave me his response as clear as a bell. He whispered these words of comfort in my ear…“Be Still and Know that I Am God.”

I still remember that day like it was yesterday and since then those words, which are found in Psalms 46:10, are one of my favorite scriptures. Throughout the entire chapter of Psalm 46, God tells that He is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in times of trouble and we won’t fear because The Lord Almighty is with us!

What comforting words to hear as the whole world is in turmoil. I truly believe that God is using this time to turn the world’s attention to Him.

I have an atheist friend who is happy that our church doors are currently closed. He told me that “At least people aren't getting indoctrinated during the virus shutdown.” My response to him was, “We usually get around 150 coming to church each week, but now that we are streaming online we have around 1,150 each week who get to hear the good news.” Praise God, church!

God knows what He is doing. Remember the Bible tells us in Romans 8:28 that God works ALL things to the good for those who love him and are called according to His purpose. God is the master chess player. He is 10,000+ moves ahead of anyone else and good will come out of this crisis.

The message of His love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ Our Lord will not be stopped. It cannot be stopped. Thank you, Lord! We trust you, Lord! We love you, Lord!

Don’t be discouraged, church! Call that person who has been on your mind. Pray for them! Encourage them! Tell them the good news that God loves them and has not abandoned them, and that He has a plan for them!!! Stay safe in His arms!

Brian Wilkerson
April 2020

The Old Rugged Cross

A few days ago, I saw a story about the Bishop of Stockholm from The Church of Sweden wanting to ban all crosses from churches there because it may offend Muslims in Sweden. Not only did the Bishop want the crosses removed, but the Bishop also wanted to install Muslim prayer space in each church. Upon further review, I found out that this Bishop is none other than Eve Brunne, the world’s first lesbian Bishop. She was appointed in 2009 and is married to Gunilla Linden, who is a fellow lesbian priest. I wonder what Muslims around the world think of this gesture by Bishop Brunne? I wonder if they look at Christianity as a whole and say, “Why does their religion promote open homosexuality and put someone like Brunne in such an important office as Bishop of Stockholm?”

See: http://pamelageller.com/2015/10/swedish-bishop-calls-for-church-to-remove-crosses-to-install-muslim-prayer-space.html/

Does Brunne think she would be allowed to even step foot into a Mosque in the Middle East, let alone call the shots? I think she already knows that answer.

Although I have plenty of thoughts on the State of the Church in Sweden and its appointment of Eve Brunne to Bishop I will stick with what originally drew me to the story

Like “Bishop” Brunne, many people around the world including some self- proclaiming Christians are trying to eliminate the cross or  cheapen the message of the cross and what it really represents

It troubles me that many of the modern mega churches won’t even have a cross on display

I wonder why atheists protest when the cross at the World Trade Center is displayed at the memorial site. If there is no God, as they say, then this symbol should not offend them, I reason.
 

 

Just a couple days later, I saw an amazing video of an elderly woman from South Carolina named Clara Gantt and what the cross meant to her both spiritually and physically. Clara was making her weekly Sunday morning drive to church from her Blythewood home when she found herself in the midst of a flood. Her car was swept from the road into a ditch in front of a small local church. Her grandson, Travis Catchings, arrived with some rope and was able to force the car door open before the raging flood waters filled the entire car, but they became stranded as the flooding intensified. A cross in front of the church had become uprooted and lodged against the car, and the two held onto it in hopes that someone would find them.
“I was literally, after I got out of the car, holding onto the cross. I was clinging to the cross," Gantt said.

They remained that way for five hours until help arrived. During that time, Catchings called his wife thinking it might be the last time he'd ever speak to her.

Gantt suffered a broken ankle and hypothermia but is recovering. Her grandson was unharmed.

"Jesus is my Savior," Gantt told WIS-TV. "This story is not about me, this is about what He did to save me."

After watching this story broadcasted by the national news, I was reminded how important the cross and its message are to us who call ourselves Christians

1 Corinthians 1:18 says, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

Without the cross and the obedience of Jesus allowing himself to be crucified upon it, we would be lost for all eternity and without hope.

In Jesus’ day, the cross represented the most brutal form of death. Today, the cross should be a continual reminder for all humanity of the love and compassion God had on us the day He allowed His one and only Son to be crucified on that cross as a ransom for our sins. See John 3:16.

As Christians, let us never forget the Cross and its message. And, like Clara Gantt, let us cling to it daily as a reminder of what God has done for us. May the Cross be a constant reminder with us to share God’s love for others who have yet come to know Him.

Lord, we thank you for the cross and what you did for us on that cross. The world may try to ban crosses, but we have your cross and its meaning written on our hearts.

May God Bless You,

Brian        

 

Every Dog has Its Day?

The other day, I was on Facebook when I noticed my cousin had “liked” a page called New Ark Ministries. With my curiosity piqued I decided to click on their Facebook page. The first thing I saw on their page was this quote:

“SURPRISE! TELL EVERYONE! Pope John Paul II agrees with New Ark Ministries: ‘Also the animals possess a soul.’ God loves His animals. Mat. 16:15 "Go ye out into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature."

SURPRISED? You bet I was surprised! Was this organization implying that we are commanded to spread the good news of Jesus Christ to animals?

I sent them a private message. While I awaited their response, I did some research and found their webpage. The following is what I read in shock and disbelief.

NEW ARK MINISTRIES

New Ark Ministry is the first worldwide ministry for animals. Its message is based solely on the Bible and motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to share the word of God to animals and meet their needs in His name without discrimination.

This is a non-denominational ministry, but we were delighted to find that Pope John Paul II declared in a public audience in 1990 that 'also the animals possess a soul and men must love and feel solidarity with our smaller brethren’.

We have 10 acres to roam, ALL ANIMALS great and small, whether they have fur, paw, feathers, hooves, skin or fin, are welcome to join us.

Come as you are, this is for your pets

WHAT THE HECK? The mission is to share the word of God to animals and to meet their needs in His name without discrimination”?

This must be some kind of hoax, I thought. Hey! My name is Brian not Manti.  :-)

They say that ALL animals great and small are welcome to come. I pondered if that would have applied to any tigers that Mike Tyson used to have around. Do you really think a pet tiger and I would be “welcomed with love and no discrimination?”

I don’t know about you, but I personally have never “been motivated by the love of God” to preach to ANY animal. Talk about twisting scripture and taking things way, way out of context! I am 110% certain that the most basic Biblical interpretation agrees that Jesus Christ commanded us to preach the Gospel to human beings only. Even those without Biblical knowledge or claim to be religious must certainly agree that Jesus wasn’t talking about preaching to animals.

After a few hours had gone by, I was contacted by New Ark Ministries. The following is an excerpt of our conversation. (Reader, be warned - I was really just toying with them and really was not concerned about my deceased dog’s eternal home or my other dog’s salvation status. I just wanted to see what New Ark was all about)

of our days is up to God. Therefore I will respect all other faith traditions

Me:

My adopted greyhound that was 12 yrs old just passed away. Can I be reassured she is in Heaven? I just discovered your FB page and she was not baptized. I'm really concerned. Please help.

New Ark Ministries:

Hi Brian. We believe that all animals have a soul and do in fact go to heaven. We also believe what the bible says - the word should be preached to all creatures. We would love to post a picture of your Greyhound if you would like to send us a picture.

Me:

Thanks for your response. How exactly do I preach the word to my other dog? I'm too far away to attend service. Is there any specific scriptures like John 3:16 etc I should have him listen to?

New Ark Ministries:

Hi Brian - start by reading the book of james to your animals - out loud - and know that your animals dont necessarily have to be paying attention. They still hear it and will likely be more relaxed afterwards. God Bless you and your animals.

Me:

Thanks for all your help. I just have one more question. Since I am comforted that my dog Misty is now in Heaven, how can I be sure I can go there? I mean I don't want to end up in hell or anything. How can I be assured that I make it into Heaven?

New Ark Ministries:

Hi Brian - You will get to heaven if you believe Jesus Christ is your Lord and savior. Live your life and try not to sin and when you do, ask for forgiveness. Its all pretty simple really. God Bless you.

Read the Book of James to my dog to start with? Maybe I forgot to tell them that I am certainly no doctor with the surname of Doolittle :-)

While I am somewhat relieved that New Ark Ministries’ belief is that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven for us humans, I am truly dumbfounded by the time, effort, and energy they are spending on something as useless as preaching the gospel to animals and having church services for them.

As a pet owner, I do abide by Proverbs 12:10, which tells us that a righteous man cares for the needs of his animals. However, it is for the salvation of the souls of the lost family members, neighbors, loved ones, and strangers that my heart yearns. Let us concentrate on the task at hand of reaching all humans with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In I Corinthians 9:16, the greatest evangelist of all time, the Apostle Paul, says this “Woe to me if I don’t preach the gospel”

I urge you dear brothers and sisters in Christ to seek God daily and with the help of the Holy Spirit we can “go into all nations and preach the gospel” to the ones who were made in the image of God himself

May God Bless You,

Brian W