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August 15, 2016
Spiritually Satisfied - James 4
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| I have a friend who, at one point, was a self-confessed shopping addict. Recently, his family realized that this activity had stopped, though he hadn't intentionally curtailed it. Why, they wondered, did his longing to acquire more goods seem to dissolve?
The reason was that my friend had become more satisfied with the Lord. He no longer needed fulfillment from what the world had to offer. What a terrific illustration of growth in Christ.
In addition to finding fulfillment in God, there are many other growth indicators that are noticeable to the believer. For instance, offering forgiveness becomes easier over time. Consider our Savior, who asked God to forgive even those who crucified Him on the cross.
Also, as we mature, our faith will increase. God loves us, and He gracefully and gently builds our confidence in Him. Then, as our trust grows, we realize how faithful He truly is--which grows our assurance even more.
Another mark of a closer walk with Christ is an expanding concern for others' spiritual condition. And finally, as our relationship with the Lord deepens, we will increasingly desire to obey Him. This desire is born not out of fear but out of love for our heavenly Father. Similarly, when we do sin, our hearts will become saddened and repentant.
Are you satisfied spiritually? Or do you have a growing, insatiable hunger for more of Jesus? Friend, if you think that you've come far enough in your journey with Christ, you have made a terrible mistake. You are missing great fulfillment and the excitement that comes from getting closer to Him.
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Current Sermon Series
As the world grows more connected, our neighbors are closer than ever. You might not share a fence, but you can still share their burdens and joys.
How to Neighbor is a four-week series with a strong push for local missions. Each week focuses on a different aspect of how to build relationships with our neighbors and how to do good in the context of those relationships. The topics covered are "Racism Reconciled," "Orphans Embraced," "Poor Empowered," and "Lonely Loved." We're praying this series will equip you to impact your community for Jesus.
Last Week:
Poverty is not the absence of some material things, it is a state of mind, and all kinds of poverty (financially, spiritually, relationally, etc.) comes from a place of brokenness. We learned how we can empower the poor without hurting them or us.
Sunday's message is available for streaming or for download on our
sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes.
Next Week:
We will be meeting at the Caldwells. The next Sunday, August 28 Lord willing, we will conclude our series by delving into The Lonely Loved.
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Upcoming Events
August 21, 2016 - Church Outside at the Caldwell's at 11 AM. Carry-in lunch following service as well as games.
August 25, 2016 - Men's Small Group at 7 PM at the church. Please read chapters 8-10.
August 27, 2016 - Back To School Bash at the church from 2PM - 4 PM. There will be homemade ice cream, the slip n' slide, some bouncy houses, and lots more fun! This is for all, but especially the kids!
August 28, 2016 - Lord's Supper and Deacon's Fund Offering following the AM Worship Service
September 4, 2016 - Carry-in Fellowship Dinner
September 9, 2016 - Men's BBQ at 6 PM. Cost is $5 per person.
September 12, 2016 - Ladies Small Group at 7 PM at Stephanie Robinson's house
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