Category: Example

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Three Things God Wants From Us…June 2nd

what God wantsWe often ask God for safe travel and healing for the sick.  Ever notice how our prayers are often saturated with what we want from God?  But how much do we think about what God wants from us?  Does He have any expectations of His children?

Sunday morning at Waterview church of Christ we’ll examine some things that God desires from His children.  Consider how much you give to God when it comes to justice, kindness and humility.  We often are prepared to travel to foreign mission fields and sign up for mission trips to comfort those who are suffering. But is our justice and kindness reserved only for those who are ‘afar off?’  How willing are we to be just, kind and humble to those we see every day, or maybe… every Sunday?

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, June 2, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Let God Arise” – 471

Our call to worship is a contemporary song with roots from the 68th Psalm.  A simple statement Christians should always remember, “May God arise, may His enemies be scattered…”  How will it look when God’s enemies are scattered.  Will you be standing with Him or His enemies?

“Higher Ground” – no book

An adaptation from the original by Johnson Oatman, this arrangement features the same music (for the most part) and the same words, yet with a slight twist.  The above YouTube video follows the format that we’ll be singing this Sunday morning at Waterview.  Enjoy the adjustment, but don’t miss the message; “I’m pressing on the upward way,”…stilling praying that the Lord will, “…plant my feet on higher ground.”

“In Memory of the Savior’s Love” – 335 & “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

These two songs will serve as a medley for the Lord’s supper.  Verse one from the first song will proceed verse two from the second.  Notice the flow; “…where every humble, contrite (penitent) heart is made a welcome guest.”  “Forbid it Lord that I should boast, save in the death of Christ my Lord…”  We’ll sing this will be before the bread, then before the fruit of the vine we’ll sing verses 2 & 3 from this medley.  The songs will flow like this: “…The cup in token of His blood that was for sinner’s shed.”  “See from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down…”  And as we close our time of remembrance we’ll switch the order of the songs and begin with verse 4 and close with verse 3.  The message: “…Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.”  “Beneath the banner thus we sing the wonders of His love…”

“Pierce My Ear” – no bookbondservant...awl

Taken from Exodus 21:1-6, and yet many tend to shy away from this song because of the misunderstanding of (or disagreement with) the title.  But when we understand the Biblical reference behind this psalm (we are singing scripture) we can better understand that for a Hebrew slave to have his ear pierced was not a glamorous sign of independence.  Instead, it meant a permanent, visual contract that displayed his prearranged bondage.  To say you ‘wanted your ear pierced’ was a step toward giving up your every freedom to a life of slavery.  Read the text,  “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything. If he comes alone, he is to go free alone; but if he has a wife when he comes, she is to go with him. If his master gives him a wife and she bears him sons or daughters, the woman and her children shall belong to her master, and only the man shall go free.“But if the servant declares, ‘I love my master and my wife and children and do not want to go free,’then his master must take him before the judges.  He shall take him to the door or the doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life.”  Now who is willing to sing?

 

“Where He Leads I’ll Follow” – 417

In keeping with our theme for this lesson we need to look no further than the last phrase from the first two verses of this song; “He the great example is the pattern for me…”  When we truly Follow Jesus, we’ll be kind to the erring ones and faith like He is.

what God wants...1“‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” – 679

Our invitation song calls us to trust Him.  Personally, the second verse means more as we understand we’re singing about baptism.  Notice it again, “O how sweet to trust in Jesus, just to trust His cleansing blood, just in simple faith to plunge me ‘neath (beneath) the healing, cleansing flood.”  Sometimes I wonder how many have sung this song over the years and missed that critical message of baptism.

“Oh, to Be Like Thee” – 429

As we draw this song service to a close, this hymn reminds us of what God wants from us; to be like Him.  Again, see the second verse; “Oh, to be like Thee!  Full of compassion, loving, forgiving, tender and kind, helping the helpless, cheering the fainting, seeking the wandering sinner to find…”  Is Jesus stamped on your heart?

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We’re Marching and Singing to Zion…Pt 3

As this three part study comes to a close, perhaps the strongest reminder of how we are to sing comes when we consider the words of the author of Hebrews.

When we sing songs of praise we are offering a sacrifice to God.  Hebrews 13:15, ‘…let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.’  Singing songs of praise, ‘the fruit of lips’ is our giving to God a sacrifice of praise. (Hebrews 2:12)  What kind of a sacrifice are you offering?  Before you answer, let me remind you of Leviticus 10:1-3.  During the offering of sacrifices in the Old Testament, Nadab and Abihu offered ‘strange fire’ before the Lord.  These two men, sons of Aaron, violated God’s command for sacrifices and were subsequently struck down.  Notice how Moses responded to this tragedy… “It is what the Lord spoke, saying, ‘By those who come near Me I will be treated as holy, and before all the people I will be honored.”  We must ask ourselves, ‘When I’m singing on Sunday morning, what kind of sacrifice am I offering God?’  Do I sing and listen for my own satisfaction?  Am I honestly thinking about what I’m singing?  My prayer is for God’s people everywhere to stop and think about our singing in worship.  Let’s sing with the Spirit!

Standing with our brothers and sisters in Christ and opening our minds and hearts (not to mention our voices), we might sing another hymn penned more than 300 years ago; “Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above, ye heavenly host.  Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost!”  Doxology is a simple song of praise to our God and Father and echoes our soul’s unquestionable need to praise our Creator.  As Christ entered Jerusalem in Luke 19, just days before His arrest, the crowds praised Him saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Hearing this praise, some of the Pharisees, approached Jesus and told Him to reprimand and silence His followers.  But notice His response; “I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!”  In short…we were made to give praise to God. If we refuse to, His creation will sing it out.  If you’re not sure about that, read Psalm 148 (or sing “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah”).  Though many might ignore our God-given need to praise Him, and while many more may offer excuses as to why they’re not singing praises to God, remember Romans 14:11, “…Every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.”Mt. Hayden

As brothers and sisters in Christ we remember that we’re singing and ‘marching to Zion’. Consider the second verse of this spiritual song; “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God; but children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad.” Some don’t know the joy that comes in being a child of God.  Their refusal to sing is out of ignorance.  But those of us who are ‘children of the heavenly King’ must be ready and willing to speak (to sing) our joys abroad.  You and I know as we are marching, we’re also singing along the way to Zion.

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Who Am I?

Oscillating FanAre you blessed?  When the temperatures fall in the winter, do you consider the warmth of your home a blessing?  When the summer heats up and the sun beats down on you, do you find the comfort of your oscillating fan a blessing?

All too often we find ourselves living in an self-satisfying world.  The young teenage boy opens the refrigerator expecting it to be filled with food (though he may hold the door open for 15 minutes trying to decide what he wants).  When we flip the light switch in the hall we expect instant illumination.  We turn on the shower and become frustrated when it takes too long for the water to heat up. In short…we expect favorable results.  But why do we think this way?  Who am I to assume that just because I expect things to be a certain way they will be?  Unfortunately we are living in a time (a culture) of entitlement.  When we once cherished what we had, now we expect it…and more.  The university graduate, with diploma in hand, expecting a 6 figure income.  Many not wanting to work their way to the top, but rather expecting to automatically be placed there.  The young family moving into their first home?  Make that a 4-bedroom, 3-bath, 2-car garage, because, “Hey, I deserve it…” But what really do I deserve? It’s probably not what I would expect.

During the last several months many have shared with me this song made popular by Rusty Goodman in 1965.  Many years ago I remember hearing Elvis Presley sing this song, but it never sounded as strong as it does in this arrangement. Sung by the “Alter of Praise Chorale” in 2010, this song speaks to the blessing we have in a Christ. Notice the words, then listen to the human voice sing this song of humility and reverence.

who am i

Oh when I think of how He left His home in glory
Came and dwelt among the lowly such as I
To suffer shame and such disgrace on Mount Calvary
Take my place then I ask myself a question, “Who am I?”

Who am I that the King would bleed and die for?
Who am I that He would pray “not my will, Thine Lord?”
The answer I may never know, why He ever loved me so
That to an old rugged cross He’d go for who am I?

When I’m reminded of His words, I’ll leave Him never
If you’ll be true I’ll give to you life forever
Oh, I wonder what I could have done to deserve God’s only Son
To fight my battles until they’re won for who am I?

Who am I that the King would bleed and die for?
Who am I that He would pray not my will, Thy Lord?
The answer I may never know, why He ever loved me so
But to an old rugged cross He’d go for who am I?
But to an old rugged cross He’d go for who am I?

Paul’s inspired words to the church in Rome remind me that I am a blessed man.  We don’t deserve anything good, but we have been given the best gift ever.  Who am I to be the recipient of such an honor?  Why would God look down on me and have mercy on me, a sinner.  You’ve heard the song written some 47 years ago, but now read the inspired words penned some 2000 years ago and ask yourself…who am I?  “For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die, yet perhaps for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commended His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8

Enjoy the blessings God has given you.  The warmth of your home when the cold air is swirling around; the cool side of the pillow on the hot summer night, and best of all…the assurance that God has given us the greatest gift of all time.

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The Extra ‘Last’ Mile

In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us how far we should be willing to go.  Not only for those who are kind and deserving, but also for those who you are not deserving.
Read the following scripture:

selfishness“…if anyone wants to sue you, and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. (not exactly a friendly encounter) And whoever shall force (not ask) you to go one mile, go with him two.”  How could our Lord and Savior expect us to do kind things to someone who is attacking and forcing us with a selfish attitude?  Does it make sense that we should just ‘roll over’ and give in to the demands of a cruel, somewhat childish, but most certainly domineering personality?  In this same passage Jesus says in verse 39…“But I tell you, do not resist and evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”  How does God expect us to just stand around and be a punching bag to a violent, egocentrically strong-arm?  Will your conscience let you do that?

Remember I Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not let you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.”  This should give us confidence to know that even when things are hard to understand, God will help us overcome difficult circumstances.  When we are ‘forced’ to go the extra mile, we do it because of Christ’s example.

In 1908, Johnson Oatman wrote a song that reminds me of going the extra mile.  The chorus resounds with the title, “When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day, and I know there are joys that await me when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.”  Notice each verse as the song builds; we consider working daily (vs.1), to seeking the lost (vs 2), all the way to the end of this physical life (vs 3) and final till we reach the hope of eternal life (vs. 4).

“If I walk in the pathway of duty, red river day 5 (part 2) 005
if I work till the close of the day,
I shall see the great King in His beauty
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.


If for Christ I proclaim the glad story,
if I seek for His sheep gone astray,
I am sure He will show me His glory
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.


Here the dearest of ties we must sever,
tears of sorrow are seen every day;
but no sickness, no sighing forever
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.


And if here I have earnestly striven
and have tried all His will to obey,
’twill (it will) enhance all the rapture (joy) of heaven
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.”

In a life that is filled with difficulties and hardships, all the while laced with seemingly unfair circumstances, we often wonder why we must go any further.  Why shouldn’t we stand up and say enough is enough.  Perhaps our answer comes in the 12th chapter of Hebrews, “…consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Do you feel like the extra mile is too much for you?  So how far are you willing to go?  What is your breaking point?  Will you truly go the extra mile?  If you will honestly walk in the pathway of duty, and if you will truly work till the close of the day you can rest assured there are joys that await you when you’ve gone the last mile of the way!

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The Shakers…March 17th

In reading Matthew chapter 5 we see Jesus is giving us some very specific directionssalt of the earth on how we are to live.  This coming Sunday morning (3.17) we’ll look at the directive we are given in that we are ‘the salt of the earth.’  However, Jesus adds an interesting twist when he say, ‘…but if the salt becomes tasteless…”.  Perhaps you’ll join us as we look at the line of thinking considering our responsibilities.

My prayer is that this ‘order of worship’ will help you focus on our songs as we come together to worship our God.  Thinking about our songs we should say;

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, March 17, 2013

The following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

 

“We Praise Thee O God” & “Restore My Soul” – 2 & no book

This medley combines the old with the new!  We conclude the chorus of We Praise Thee, O God with “Hallelujah! Thine the glory; revive us, again.” and begin with “Restore my spirit, Lord, I need restored…”  A marriage of two beautiful songs separated by more than 10 years, but blending the same thought of praise and restoration.

“Living for Jesus” – 676

We’ll begin with the chorus of this spiritual song by T. O. Chisholm, and then transition into the 2nd verse.  Notice what we’ll be singing; “Living for Jesus who died in my stead (my place), bearing to Calvary MY sin and disgrace (not His); Such love (this kind of love) constrains me to answer His call (does it ‘compel’ you?), follow His leading and give Him my all…”  Keep your heart on Him and give Him your life every day!

“Lord, Take Control” – 790

How much do you consider to be yours and how much do you consider to be God’s?  When we sing this new song we’re asking God to take control of our lives.  But how much of your life are you willing to let go of?  Read the words we’ll be singing on Sunday; “My heart, my mind, my body, my soul…”  How much do you have left if you give God your emotions, your thoughts, your physical being and your spiritual being?

“Remind Me, Dear Lord” – 606

Following the Lord’s Supper I like for the congregation to remember once more how lost we would be without our Savior’s sacrifice.  There is nothing that we have done to deserve God’s own Son.  If we can remember that we’re not worthy of the scares in His hands perhaps we understand better that the things we value in life are just borrowed.  We all need to have the curtain of memory rolled back every now and then so we can see where Jesus has brought us from and where we could have been…

“Jesus is All the World to Me” & “I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 590 & 609

Before the lesson we’ll sing this short medley as we recognize how important Jesus is to our lives, but also that we are not ashamed to tell the world.  In the same key but with a bit more energy we’ll transition from “…He’s my friend.” to “I’m not ashamed to own my Lord nor to defend His cause…”

“Have Thine Own Way Lord” – 552

Though this might not appear to be a typical invitation song, we are called to give our lives over to God.  Let Him standing on the shorehas His way in our lives.  Easy to say, not often done!  Can you say that you want God to “…hold over your being absolute sway”?  Do you know what that even means?  By definition ‘sway’ can mean to control or rule over.  Are you OK with God having absolute control of your life?  But only by YOUR choice…

“Home of the Soul” -875

A song of Heaven…we’ve been singing this song since 1912.  Some of our older members remember when this song was a new, ‘contemporary’ song. (Think about it…this is a hundred year old song.  Those who are in their 70’s and 80’s sang this song when it was only 20 or 30 years old.)  Perhaps they best understand how comforting it is to sing of the rest that… ‘will be given on the eternal shore.’

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The Least…March 10th

Sunday morning, March 10th at Waterview church of Christ, our lesson will be presented by Robert Taylor as he provides a update from our mission work in Nicaragua.

When we pour out our coins for the ‘Breakfast Program’ in Nicaragua, we are doing much coins for couponsmore than filling a small basket.  We are providing more than just a warm meal.  We are opening doors for the word to be spread in yet another mission field.  This morning we’ll spend some time considering the words of our Lord in Matthew 25.  Perhaps you will find the following ‘order of worship’ a means by which you can focus your mind on the songs we’ll sing this coming Lord’s day.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”
I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, March 10, 2013

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“The Great Redeemer” – 250

It’s interesting to realize that this song is almost 100 years old.  Written by Francis Foster in 1915, “The Great Redeemer” stirs the emotions as all four parts take an active lead in harmonizing the voice and praising our God.  But ask yourself if  you will honestly do what you say you will do in the chorus; “…I will never cease to raise a song of gladness in His praise.”

“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” – 509

Another song with some beautiful harmony.  This YouTube link is a good acappella arrangement that you can listen to and sing with… “Yes, I’ll sing the wondrous story.”

“How Beautiful” – 365

A contemporary song (1991) that speaks so clearly to the Lord’s Supper.  Notice the bridge; “And as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice, that we may live just as He died, willing to pay the price…”  The feet that bring the good news and the hands that serve are beautiful, but how beautiful is the body of Christ!

“I Am Mine No More” – 683

Though the author and composer of this song are unknown, the message is very clear.  Would that we do more than just say, “I am mine no more…”, but that our lives would reflect a change in our priority.  When you say something is more important than something else, it’s only proven by your next step.  If you are truly no longer concerned about self, have you changed anything specific?

“Savior, Thy Dying Love” – 667

Following the Lord’s Supper and during the passing of the collection plate we’ll sing this hymn from the 1860’s.  It serves as a good reminder of the sacrifice (our Savior’s dying love).  Notice the last line from the first three verses; “…some offering bring Thee now, something for Thee.”, “…some song to raise or prayer, something for Thee.” “…some wanderer sought and won, something for Thee.”  But now read the last line of the fourth verse.  “And when Thy face I see, my ransomed soul will be, through all eternity, something for Thee.”  You give a few dollars when the collection plate comes around, but what will you give when Monday morning comes around?

“A Beautiful Life” – 570

Before our lesson, join in the spiritual song that boasts a strong tenor/bass echo.  As we move into the chorus, the men take the lead, but with all the ‘musical’ excitement we must never miss the message.  Can you say you are helping those who are in need?  Are you letting your light shine along the way?  When was the last time you were willing to lend a helping hand?  A good reminder from this song…

yoke is easy“Burdens Are Lifted at Calvary” – 912

This old ‘invitation song’ is replete as the title is sung over and over again.  Include the chorus after each verse and the phrase “Burdens are lifted at Calvary” is repeated nine times.  So when we sing this song on Sunday we’ll hold the chorus to the end, following all three verses.  Just don’t forget that Jesus IS very near.

“His Yoke is Easy” – 612

We’ll close our service with this 1893 spiritual song, admonishing the congregation with the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:29, 30.  “Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  When you sing this closing song I hope you believe, “…His service is my sweetest delight, His blessings ever flow.”

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GIGO…March 3rd

examine 1My prayer for those who are reading this to be drawn closer to understanding the purpose we share on Sunday morning.  We come together and worship God, we come to offer a sacrifice of praise and to join together as we commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. This coming Sunday morning (March 3rd) we’ll examine our hearts and see if what comes out of our heart is reflective of what is going into our mind. We’ll sing on Sunday morning, but will your words reflect your heart…or will you be singing from a routine practiced over the years?

Sunday morning, March 3, 2013

Our sermon topic on Sunday is entitled, “GIGO”, what does that mean?  Join us Sunday morning or check out the lesson on Waterview’s website [LINK] Sunday afternoon.  Those who are familiar with this website know the following is an account of our order of worship.  All song numbers are from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Holy Ground Medley” – 99, 100 & 101

The editors of our hymnal (Faith & Praise) chose to place the songs In His Presence, Holy Ground (by Beatty) and Holy Ground (by Davis) as a predesigned medley. Many have sung this collection of songs and the message is a powerful reminder of the holiness of God.  We begin by focusing on the environment we find when ‘in the presence of God’…comfort, peace and assurance.  The medley continues as we recognize being in His presence. Remember Moses (Exodus 3) as he was standing ‘on holy ground.’  Ken Young added the second verse of Beatty’s song when he wrote; “You are holy, God, a perfect and holy God. We will come before You with hearts made clean by Jesus’ blood.” We come to worship our Father, and together we are standing on Holy Ground.

“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382

The question is asked with this spiritual song, why?  Why did Jesus come to earth and choose the birth of a lowly peasant born in a stable?   And why would our Savior choose to die such a cruel, painful death and be lifted up for all to see…and scorn?  The answer is repeated three times in the chorus (7 times if you count the echo in the refrain) “He loves me so much that He gave His precious life for me…”  Now transition to the next song.

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no booksoldier at the cross

A contemporary song that isn’t asking the question “How deep is the Father’s love,” but one that is sung to confirm what we already realize.  God’s love for us is so deep, and vast we can’t measure it.  How great the pain must have been for both the Father and the Son.  But the objective was clear, to ‘bring many sons to glory.’  We continue this song as we ‘behold the man upon the cross’ and clearly recognize our sins.  Think in your mind back to the mocking voices (Luke 23:35-38) as they stood at the foot of the cross?  In poetry we sing, “…ashamed I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.”

Following the Lord’s Supper we’ll revisit the third verse from these two songs.  We asked earlier, “Why did my Savior come to earth…” and then again “…Why should I gain from His reward?”  Do you remember the next line, “I cannot give an answer, but this I know with all my heart, His wounds have paid my ransom.”  Before we conclude this medley, let’s us sing…“Till Jesus comes I sing His praise, and then to glory go…”

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Prior to today’s lesson we’ll stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800’s.  Philip Bliss authored many songs (10 in the Faith and Praise hymnal), but this particular one captivates me as we sing verse 2, “Christ the blessed one gives to all, wonderful words of life.  Sinner, list (listen) to the loving call, wonderful words of life. All so freely given (these wonderful words), wooing us to heaven…”  What does it mean to woo something (someone)?  One definition; “To entreat, solicit, request…”  Notice; the ‘words of life’ are given as an attempt (if you will) to entreat us/call us to heaven.  Wonderful Words!

Examine Heart

“Is Thy Heart Right with God” – no book

How is your heart?  Not physically speaking, but spiritually speaking?  Is it right with God?  Too often I fear we self-diagnose our life in Christ and come away with faulty information.  If my affections (things I hold as most important) are not given up (sacrificed), or if I can’t ‘count all things…but loss’ (for Jesus), then will I ever be right with God?  Ask yourself this question and then make a change.  Perhaps you need to be washed in the crimson flood…

“Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me” – 722

“From the dawn of the morning to close of day…”  What do people see in you?  How is your example, in both your actions and your words?  This song reminds me that I must lay all my gifts at His feet and think carefully about how I act toward others.  Can the beauty of Jesus be seen in me?

Join us each and every Sunday morning!

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Growing Up…in the Lord!

Daddys-shoesPerhaps you’ve been asked the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”  Little children are often asked this question and the response can be interesting…if not a little comical.

Some little boys might reply with, “When I grow up I want to be a fireman.”  In the 70’s it was not uncommon to hear younger boys say they wanted to be an astronaut or a policeman or maybe even president.  Actually, growing up in my ‘neck of the woods’, we all wanted to be cowboys when we grew up.  If you were to ask the ladies, their response might not be much different.  They too have dream of tomorrow with aspirations of what their life will be like.  One little girl once told her parents, “When I grow up I want to be a mommy.”  We consider our future and wonder what we’ll do tomorrow.  As we plan for the unknown, most truly wonder what they will do as they reach that level of accountability.  Where will I work, where will I live, what will I become when… ‘I grow up.’

As a junior in college (many years ago), I had my mind set on teaching.  I loved every aspect of working with younger minds and imparting some obscure nugget of reason.  The responsibility of molding and directing the hearts and minds of children was a challenge I eagerly embraced.  However, almost 30 years later, time and circumstances have had a way of altering my path.  Though I’m no longer an ‘educator’ by trade, my profession remains the same.  I love working with people as they mature and grow stronger.  Only today, it’s more of a spiritual growth that I seek to inspire in those who come into my ‘classroom’ of life.

But what about you?  As you read this you may be a long time business man (or woman) who has been in the work force for years.  Or you might be a young college student still trying to settle your mind on a degree.  Some reading this might be retired and still wondering, “What will I be when I grow up?”  What ever your station in life, however far you have gone or still have to go, think about making your life more than just a career, a ‘job’, that you do.  The apostle Paul wrote an admonition to the young preacher Timothy, “…be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” II Tim. 4:5  Could you really be an evangelist?  Is ministry really your calling? Let me encourage you to do more than just consider it…make that your priority.  Know that I am not promoting that you quit your job or drop out of school, but I do think we all need to change our thinking when it comes to what is most important in life.  You work to make a living, so you can pay the bills, so you can live your life.  But life won’t be worth the living if you don’t live it for God.  Where does He fit into your career and your future plans? Does God figure into life at all?

Regardless your degree (college students) or your career I hope we will all realize that in the Lord’s church, we are all called to ‘minister’ to a lost and dying world (Matthew 28).  Everything else is temporary.  Classes, projects, responsibilities to your employer are important, but God’s desire for you to work in the fold should supersede all that.  Work hard and fulfill your obligations for the task at hand, but ask yourself…what will I really be when I grow up?

A Cappella, directed by Keith Lancaster, sings a song about this every issue.  Would that we make God our number one objective and teach that to our children.  Does the world know who you are or are they still waiting to see what you’ll be ‘when you grow up.’ Trusting like a Child

“Growing up in the Lord” [LINK]

Chorus:
I’m growin’ up in the Lord.
Oh I’m gettin’ stronger; turnin’ back no longer:
I’m growin’ up in the Lord…I’m growin’ up in the Lord.

I make mistakes but that’s part of growin’ up.
Part of growin’ up in the Lord.
His understanding is what I need the most,
I am staying close to His word.

Sheltered from harm when I am safe in his arms
And I am learning to do His will.
Hearing his call although I stumble and fall. I can get up and keep growing still.

Repeat Chorus

Now as I’m growin’ I’m learning what to say, Learning how to walk in the light.
I’m made aware of the devil every day Learning how to handle the fight.

Tempted by wrong, He keeps me ready and strong So I can handle the Tempter’s snare.
Jesus is mine and since he’s there all the time I am protected within His care

Repeat Chorus

 

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A 50 Year Journey…Feb. 24th

OGLESBY-ROBERT-414Sunday morning, February 24th, Waterview church of Christ celebrates 50 years with Robert & Willora Oglesby.  Since the spring of 1963, Robert has been the pulpit preacher for this congregation of God’s people.  For that longevity of faithfulness we give God the glory.  As we sing today, our songs are intended to admonish and encourage the family as we bring before God our sacrifice of praise, the fruit of our lips (Hebrews 13:15).  Thanks be to God for working through Robert these past 50 years!

The following ‘order of worship’ is designed to focus our mind toward our worship to Him.  Think about the songs you sing in praise to God…

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, February 24, 2013

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

 

“Step By Step”, “Here We Are But Straying Pilgrims” & “He Has Made Me Glad” – 15, 537 & 103 respectively

This three song medley is a strong, upbeat blend using a hymn, spiritual song and psalm (can you tell which one is which…yes, I know there is some gray in the definition of each, but you get the idea).  We begin this morning proclaiming our faith in God and announcing that, ‘…I will follow You all of my days’.  Our second song in this medley encourages the saints to focus on heaven.  With the verses sung in unison, we sense the oneness of our journey home.  Finally, the last song in this medley is a quote from Psalm 100.  We come together with thanksgiving in our hearts…I’m glad to be worshiping with the saints!

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

The second verse provides us the reminder of our reason for coming together this morning…“Lamb of God, dear hope of glory, Savior crucified, by Your blood I am redeemed my debt now satisfied…”  We must ‘keep our eyes’ on Jesus as we meet, communion and worship our King.

“‘Tis Set the Feast Divine” – no bookcross

Not in many of our hymnals, this song by L. O. Sanderson serves to prepare our minds (keep our minds) focused on the Savior and His death on the cross.  “May we the Lord discern…”  As we sing we’re asking that we all recognize and realize the death of Jesus is the only thing we need to concern ourselves with.  When we eat of the bread and drink of the cup…what are you thinking about?

“In Memory of the Savior’s Love” – 335

Following the passing of the fruit of the vine, we’ll sing this old hymn by Thomas Cotterill written in 1805.  Notice the call for us to remember His love, and come before Him with a contrite heart.  How contrite (full of remorse) is your heart when you take of the Lord’s Supper?  We take the bread of life and the token cup of blood as we anticipate the ‘heavenly feast above’.

“This World is Not My Home” – 957

Do you ‘feel right at home’ when it comes to this world?  If you do I would recommend you reconsider your comfort zone.  We’ll sing here about our treasures being stored in heaven (Matthew 6:19) and not feeling at home in this world anymore.  The chorus is so strong; “…if heaven’s not my home, then Lord, what will I do?”  Remember this, without the hope of heaven we’re lost in an unfriendly world.

“Higher Ground” (Ken Young version) – no book

This revised, old song has become a Waterview favorite during the last 8-10 years.  The words haven’t changed, but the music has.  Same tune, but the 2nd verse brings a solid foundation of male voices singing, “Heart has no desire to stay where doubts arise and fears dismay.  Some may dwell where these abound my prayer my aim is higher ground…”  Notice what you just read/sang; My heart doesn’t want to stay here (this world is not my home) where there are doubts and fears that destroy our courage (dismay).  But even though some people seem to dwell in this type of circumstance ( where doubts and fears abound), my prayer and my aim is HIGHER GROUND!

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

Not a typical invitation song, but since we’re talking and thinking about our journey, this seems to fit our call for repentance, change and renewing.  How willing are you to ‘work and never shirk’ for your God.  Let’s all say (sing) we want to live close to Him each day.

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” – no book

A contemporary song that proclaims the victory belongs to God.  We’ll close this morning’s worship service with a song of victory.  Will you go out into the world and take on the full armor (panoply) of God?  In the chorus, as we sing, let’s give all our 1) glory, 2) honor, 3) power and 4) strength to the Lord.

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Basic Training for Parents…Feb. 3rd

Sunday, February 3rd at Waterview church of Christ, our sermon title is:

parents-basic-training

“Basic Training…For Parents”.  The following ‘order of worship’ is designed to provide you a glimpse of our song selection (either early or after the fact). We have a great responsibility to train up our children, and mom and dad need to be prepared for that task.  As always, let me encourage you to think about the songs you sing in praise to God.  Remember I Corinthians…”I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

Sunday morning, February 3, 2013

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Let God Arise” and “Faith is the Victory” – 471 & 469

This medley, two spiritual songs, is intended to accomplish two basic objectives.  First, we sing to motivate the Christian using the words of David in Psalm 68 (‘Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered’).  But also to admonish the congregation to join in the spiritual battle against forces of darkness.  Note verse 3 (missing from many of our hymnals)… “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array.  Let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray.  Salvation’s helmet on each head with truth all girt about, the earth shall tremble neath our tread, and echo with our shout…”

“There is a Redeemer” – 287

How often do you say, “Thank You, Father, for giving us Your Son.”?  The verses are sung in duet, sopranos and tenors, but the whole of the congregation should join in the chorus.  We do have a Redeemer, and the cost for our salvation was high.  Are you thankful?

“Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” – 383

We’ll sing this song before the Lord’s Supper, holding the 3rd verse to be sung between the Bread and the Fruit of the Vine.  Notice that 3rd verse; “Near the cross!  O Lamb of God, bring it’s scene’s before me; help me walk from day to day with it’s (the cross) shadow over me…”  We focus our hearts and minds as we remember our Savior’s sacrifice.

“How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts” – 432

One of my favorites, and a spiritual song that really talks toward our families.  Parents, as we consider ‘training’ our children for a life with God we have to follow the teaching from God’s word.  The best (only) option for imparting wisdom and cleaning our hearts and minds.  (Verse 1; “…Thy word, the choicest rules impart…”; defined, the word of God is the best set of directions we can pass on to our heirs.)

“Trust and Obey” – 915

How do we find true happiness in this life?  What could I do to obtain peace and joy in a world of pain and sorrow?  Reading God’s word (and singing this old spiritual song) you’ll come to see that we need to trust and obey.  But there’s so much more to that simple statement.  How will you trust in God?  How do I intend to obey Him?  A Christian life is more than just trusting in God,  you must be willing to Obey His word!

“Our God, He is Alive” – 23

God is alive and well!  This spiritual song sings to the splendor of His creation and the majesty of His name.  Notice the 3rd (often ignored) verse from this song… “Secured is life from mortal mind, God holds the germ within His hand…”  What’s the germ?  By definition germ can simply be “something that may serve as the basis of further growth or development”.  Or it could simply be “something microscopic”.  Either way, God is in control.  Our God holds the growth of life.  And though men try to find it and understand God, He alone knows.
“…for God alone does understand.”

Parents…we have a great responsibility to teach our children to know God’s word.  To strive and fulfill His will for our individual lives, and to always trust and obey Him.