Welcome. It is my prayer that you are being encouraged and challenged by what you see and hear and do all around you as a Christian when we meet together to sing, pray, give, hear the gospel preached, and remembering Jesus’ sacrifice. We gather together to honor God and show Him our love and gratitude in study, fellowship, and worship. It would be great to have every member of the Harding Street congregation here when we meet, but some members are sick or caring for the sick. Some are traveling for work or for other reasons. Some have to work (police officers, security, nurses, doctors, fire department, etc.). And of course, a few others, well, just do not understand or have forgotten what a pleasure and privilege it is to meet together with fellow Christians with God Himself in our midst. Jesus Himself said, “For where two or three are gathered in My Name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20 ESV). God is so good to us and provides for our every need every day. One of the many reasons we meet together is to thank Him for every blessing. We certainly are thankful.
Our Sunday morning series is entitled “ASPECTS OF TRUE FAITH.” This past Sunday we had a lesson on the “labor of love” that Paul mentioned in our text 1 Thessalonians 1:1-4. The church in Thessalonica developed this aspect of true faith that was “sounded forth in every place.” I want to have this kind of faith, a faith that is founded and strengthened through SACRIFICE. I read about this young man who once told an older gospel preacher, “I’d give my whole life to know the Bible like you.” The wise older minister replied, “Young man, that’s exactly what it takes.” Just how much to you want what you want? Do you want what you want bad enough to make the sacrifices that are needed to get it? Only you can answer that question for yourself. King David understood the sacrifices needed to have what he wanted. Jesus did too.
On the evening we took a look at Jesus’ FLEXIBILITY in His teaching salvation to the world. He didn’t have a “system” when it came to showing and sharing the good news that salvation has come into the world. He is our example in all things and we are following His footprints. “It is written” was one of His favorite quotes.
Not too long ago, one of our Christian brothers read from Romans 8:35-39. While listening to him read, I understood. Nothing…nothing we see or experience in this world shall be able to move us from the love of Christ. Though we are in trouble, Christ loves us. Maybe we’re stressed, yet Christ loves us. We may be persecuted, and still Christ’s love sustains us. We may be lonely, hungry, tired, or doubtful and still Christ’s love surrounds us. Circumstances may seem hopeless, and yet the love of Christ remains. Wow! What a great love!
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