More Than A Dozen Hymnals: Nov 17th - 22nd
This Week & Beyond...
Check out the following leaders and be sure to lift them up in prayer this week!
Preaching: Andrew Micklefield
Leading the Service: Tony Clark
Leading Worship: Greg Friesen
Drums - Jody : Bass - Darian : Violin - Brenda : Keys - Michelle : Vocals - Holly : Electric - Nykolas
Sound - Steven : Video - Unknown
The Love of the Father...
Do you ever sit and ponder the love of the Father? Seriously, do you ever take time out of your busy schedule and spend it thinking about how much you are loved by the creator of the universe? I mean, we sing songs about it, and I would believe, all know it to be true, but do we "cherish it in our hearts" kind of know it. If not, can I encourage you to ask the Lord to show you? Before you do, here is a question for you...
How would you describe the love the Father has for His son Jesus?
What kind of thoughts, pictures, or words come to mind? Before reading on, take a moment to think on this... I'm not exactly sure how I would describe that kind of love, however, words like: complete, perfect, all-consuming, and ever-lasting come to mind. In any case, no matter which way you slice it, I want that kind of love! So okay, what's the point? Here's a little verse for you....
These are Jesus words in John 15:9 "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love." (read it again, slowly)
Really!!?? Friends, I want to encourage you today! Jesus loves you with the very same love that the Father has for Him. That complete, perfect, all-consuming, errr, whatever words you feel need to go here kind of love, is how Jesus loves you! That to me is just crazy!! Actually, important too!! Jesus says to abide in this love! Why? So that others will know Jesus! The bible says that people will know we are Christ followers, disciples, by our love. Do you want to help people fall in love with Jesus? Model His love. It's a challenge for myself this week, and I invite you to join me.
I want to suggest that it's important that we know how much the Lord loves us. It's a truth that should help dictate the way we handle our emotions, physical actions, use of our gifts, live our lives in our families and jobs, and so much more!!
Now obviously this isn't the only scripture that reveals Christ's love for us. What are your favourites? Please take a moment to list them, or any other thoughts, in the comments below.
Devotional...
More Than a Dozen Hymnals
by Tom Kraeuter, Hillsboro, Missouri ... click here to read!
GOING DEEPER:
1. What other stories do you know of, present day or history, who, like Fanny Crosby, have been through extremely trying times but still worshiped God?
2. Have you experienced tragedies or hard times in your life but still worshiped God through it? If so, share how that was possible.
3. It seems as though some of the most worshipful people are those who have been through tragic circumstances. Why do you think this is so?