Theme Verse for the Summer

I’m really getting a lot out of this study of James this summer.  There are some definite things I’m working on as we go through.  And next week is about the “Pie Hole” so if you’ve come through unscathed so far, we’ll get you next weekJ  I’ve preached James twice in my 19 years here and I’m starting to think that’s not enough.  It’s so practical.

But this verse in my personal reading from I Thessalonians 5 is one that just keeps coming back to me over and over.  I think that the Lord wants it to be a theme for me this summer, and I’m going to do it.

It’s a pretty simple idea, just three things that will really make life different and better.

 Be joyful always;  pray continually;  give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thess. 5:16

That is Paul’s prescription for us all this summer.

BE JOYFUL ALWAYS – if you need help with that, read the book of Philippians.  Paul is all about how we have joy in our life (even when the circumstances don’t lend themselves to happiness).

I am a pretty joyful person; it’s a part of my DNA so this one isn’t too hard for me.  It’s hardest when I’m tired, stressed out, and out of sync with my heavenly father.  My life is very blessed; there is really no reason for me not to be joyful.  Some of you reading this can’t say that as easily.  You are blessed, but you are struggling with some pretty hard situations in your life.  Divorce, financial difficulties, health issues, relationship problems with family, work issues, or whatever.  It’s hard for you right now.  That’s why it’s important that we see that word “ALWAYS.”  Paul was in prison when he wrote – “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Phil 4:4

PRAY CONTINUALLY – I don’t do this.  I pray, I have a quiet time almost every day.  It’s important for me to communicate with my Father.  But continually?  Hardly.  This is one I’m really going to work on this summer.  Just stopping and talking to God during the day more.  I think I can make it a habit.  So far I really love it.  It’s so dumb to be a child of the King and have his “direct line” and not use it more.  Really dumb!  God is right there any time I need him.  I don’t need to pull out the Iphone – I can just talk…or listen!!!

GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES.

Do you notice something about these three things?  Present continuous tense.   Always, continually, all. Giving thanks, and prayer, and joy, these are not things you did – or things you are going to do.  They are what you are doing right now.  Always, continually, and all.

We can do this.  It will take some retraining of our habits, but I’m going to do it.  Why don’t you join me this summer?

Tim

MOSAIC THIS WEEKEND IN CONCERT  LINK TO MOSAIC MUSIC 

I really like this sermon this weekend  - “Show Me.”  A great passage from the end of chapter two of James.  But I always want to encourage you to be here because of the guest worship band we have with us.  Mosaic is a group of 6 young people who have just graduated from Belmont University in Nashville who are all pursuing music careers in different ways, but have banded together because of their friendship to do their music at churches and minister in that way.  One of them is my daughter Rachel, but I’m not recommending this because of her.  You already know how great she isJ  Her friends are amazing.  These are some very deeply rooted, beautifully spiritual young adults that will bring you to the heart of God.  They are leading worship for us at all services and also putting on a concert Sunday night at 6pm in the Worship Center.  It’s free and I’d really encourage you to come and share with them.  You will be blessed by them as I have been already.

Comments

[Paula]

A Psalm of Thanksgiving!

Make a Joyful shout to the LORD, All you lands!

Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His Presence with singing.

Know that the LORD, He is GOD; It is He who has Made us, and not we ourselves;

We are His People and the sheep of His Pasture.

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise.

Be thankful to Him, and Bless His Name.
For the LORD is GOOD;

His Mercy is Everlasting,
And His Truth Endures to All generations.

AMEN!

i read your blog with tears of Joy this morning, and nothing can express it better than the WORD of GOD! GOD Bless you :)

[Pamela McClinton]

Thank you so much for this "heart of Jesus" message. I am encouraged that the ministry put together a fountain of serving opportunities to encourage everyone with just the right kick to get out and serve, love, pray, and spread God's light and salt all over the area! It truly reminds me of a book I read long ago - "All You Really Need to Know About Prayer, You Can Learn From the Poor." As I homeschool my children, we are encouraged to make "Show Me" the theme of our summer school.
My family has had the opportunity to meet some of the staff, and have been so encouraged by the hearts of Pastor Bill and Pastor (baptizin) Lonnie! The spirit of the fellowship is wonderful and we, as His, thank you for letting the spirit of Christ live through your fellowship, your words, and your works.
Amen. Amen. And a double AMEN!

Pamela, and the McClinton Family

[The Morning Artist]

I was glad to hear Mosaic and looks forward to seeing their success unfolds. I love their song 'Torn' and 'Hummingbird'.

[Jacqueline]

Mosaic~ what an awesome name for an awesome group of talented young people. Mosaic art is my favorite. The name fits them well. I was so moved by their music and spirit that I had to have more and joyfully attended the concert Sunday evening. Their sweet rejoices to the Lord still ring in my head. Thank you for sharing with Parkview.