Joy in Verse Encouragement for 20220726

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Today is a beautiful day, because “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said … Read more

Failure #1 of the Senior Minister: The Elders

A View from the Pews

My personal opinion, based on my observations, comments and documents I’ve reviewed. You are welcome to form your own informed opinion. From the book: “My personal opinion from having gone through this experience is multidimensional. Steve Wingfield failed: • His elders. He set himself above them and in total control of them. Judging from their … Read more

Prayer for Today

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Thank you, Father God, for the joy of your salvation. You placed a new heart within me and a new life before me. May you be glorified in the name and authority of Jesus, according to your good and perfect will. Amen.   “When he turned his back to leave Samuel, God gave him another … Read more

Joy in Verse Encouragement for 20220725

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Today is a beautiful day, because “Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, ‘Fill the jars with water.’ And they filled them up to the brim. And he said to them, ‘Now draw some out and take … Read more

Prayer for Today

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Gracious and Loving God, thank you for the anointing of your Holy Spirit. I raise my hands in worship in the name and authority of Jesus, according to your good and perfect will. Amen.   “Then the Spirit of the Lord will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them and be turned into … Read more

Joy in Verse Encouragement for 20220724

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Today is a beautiful day, because God foretold John what to expect, “I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’” (John 1:33 ESV) Water #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday

Prevent Victimization

A View from the Pews

Is it incumbent upon church leadership to prepare the flock? Is it incumbent upon church members to prepare themselves to know what to look for? Are hundreds of pairs of trained eyes more effective than those of the elders and deacons? Can we do better at fending off the potential of abuse within our church? … Read more

Joy in Verse Encouragement for 20220723

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Today is a beautiful day, because Scripture shows glimpses of heaven and hell, “And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’” (Luke 16:24 ESV) Water #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday

Prayer for Today

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Father God, you are El Roi, the God who sees us. You know our needs before we can voice them. You hear our cries even though we disappoint you. You work continually for the greater good and for your glory. You did not abdicate your throne for Saul. You remained in control then, and you … Read more

The Purpose

A View from the Pews

I’m just asking. From the book: “What value is all of this to the Body of Christ? What are the takeaways that can promote healing and prevent others from getting wrapped up in another potentially explosive church situation? The Church cannot escape having to deal with sexual abuse threats. It can, however, do everything within … Read more