We remember national leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King with a holiday in their honor. Christmas is another of those occasions when we close our businesses, schools, and post offices. However, Jesus was more than just another great leader. His birth is surrounded with mystery, and we will talk about it in this week’s sermon.
Scripture: Luke 1:26-31
In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”
Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.”
“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”
The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God.”
”I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.
Matthew 1:18-24
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”– which means, “God with us.”
When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Don't Stop at the Crib delivered on Christian Crusaders December 20, 2009.
Television brings some terrible things into our homes on a daily basis. We see the results of the drug culture. We learn about a mother who decides to kill herself and her two small children. The depravity of man is all around us. Many of us live on into our 80s and some into their 90s. Often we spend those last days in a home for the aged. Does that thought make you afraid? In the middle of all this, Jesus says to us, “Don’t be afraid. I will take care of you. I will take care of your loved one. I will not remove these tedious days, but I will be with you.” That is the Christmas gospel. It comes from the lips of that little child who was born in Bethlehem’s manger. And so we can join with the angels of old and say, “Glory be to God in the highest.” Our life may not be exactly what we want on this earth, but it can be mighty good for we have a Savior who walks with us.
Christmas Sermons on CD
It's not too late to order a last-minute gift – copies of Christian Crusaders’ gift set of Christmas sermons are still available! This audio CD set of sermons based on Isaiah 9:6 is available for a gift of any amount. Call 1-888-My Faith or visit ChristianCrusa-ders.org to order. It might be a meaningful gift for a faraway friend, a next-door neighbor, or someone from your church who is lonely around the holidays.
The Origin of Some Best-Loved Christmas Carols
Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne
This hymn was written by Emily Elliott to teach children the truths of the advent and nativity seasons. Emily’s life was filled with benevolent activities in rescue missions and in the work of the Sunday school movement of that time. She wrote the text for the children of her father’s church, St. Mark’s Anglican Church in Brighton, England.
The clear message of each verse is accentuated by the use of contrasting sentences, each beginning with the word, “but.” Then in the fifth stanza, the contrast is reversed with the rejoicing at Christ’s return and the prospects of being at his side throughout eternity. The refrain after each verse effectively personalizes the truth presented. This fine hymn has proved to be an inspiration not only to children but to adults as well, during the Christmas season and throughout the entire year.
Taken from “Amazing Grace” by Kenneth W. Osbeck.
On the Light Side
Jack was coming out of church one day, and the preacher was standing at the door, as he always is, to shake hands. The preacher grabbed Jack by the hand and pulled him aside. “You need to join the Army of the Lord!”
Jack replied, “I’m already in the Army of the Lord, Pastor.”
Pastor questioned, “How come I don’t see you except at Christmas and Easter?”
He whispered back, “I’m in the secret service.”
Friday, December 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Finishing Strong
Have you ever known someone who is very enthused about their work in the church and often talks about their faith, but years later barely even shows evidence of being a Christian? The Bible compares the Christian walk to running a race, and one biblical writer has good advice for a strong finish.
Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Apprentice: High-Risk Ventures delivered on Christian Crusaders February 27, 2005.
When Peter got slapped in the face by the wind and waves a little bit, he remembered who to call for in the midst of his sinking feeling. He called out to the Lord, “Save me!” and he found that the Lord is faithful. Those strong hands of Jesus were ready to pull him up out of the water and put him back into the boat for another day to be called out to walk with Jesus. Those same strong hands, waiting to grab you, have nail holes in them. For that Savior loves you and he allowed himself to be nailed to a cross for your sins. He is the leader whom you truly can trust. He went all the way to the cross for you.
Great Gift Ideas
If you’re searching for the perfect gift for someone special, consider a donation in their name to Christian Crusaders. An honorarium gift can be made in any amount and will allow you both to be part of this vitally important mission of bringing Jesus Christ to those unable to attend worship services.
You might also wish to give Rev. Larsen’s five-volume DVD video series as a gift. Entitled Basic Biblical Truths, this sermon series is available for a donation of any amount.
On the Light Side
Q: What do you get when you mix Peter Pan with pumpkins?
A: Peter Pie Pan.
Q: What do arithmetic teachers do on Thanksgiving?
A: They count their blessings.
Q: What does a dizzy turkey say?
A: Wobble, Wobble.
Q: What Thanksgiving fruit is served on a UFO?
A: Cranberry Saucer!
Q: Why did the Thanksgiving basket get in trouble at school?
A: It was cornu-copying.
Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Apprentice: High-Risk Ventures delivered on Christian Crusaders February 27, 2005.
When Peter got slapped in the face by the wind and waves a little bit, he remembered who to call for in the midst of his sinking feeling. He called out to the Lord, “Save me!” and he found that the Lord is faithful. Those strong hands of Jesus were ready to pull him up out of the water and put him back into the boat for another day to be called out to walk with Jesus. Those same strong hands, waiting to grab you, have nail holes in them. For that Savior loves you and he allowed himself to be nailed to a cross for your sins. He is the leader whom you truly can trust. He went all the way to the cross for you.
Great Gift Ideas
If you’re searching for the perfect gift for someone special, consider a donation in their name to Christian Crusaders. An honorarium gift can be made in any amount and will allow you both to be part of this vitally important mission of bringing Jesus Christ to those unable to attend worship services.
You might also wish to give Rev. Larsen’s five-volume DVD video series as a gift. Entitled Basic Biblical Truths, this sermon series is available for a donation of any amount.
On the Light Side
Q: What do you get when you mix Peter Pan with pumpkins?
A: Peter Pie Pan.
Q: What do arithmetic teachers do on Thanksgiving?
A: They count their blessings.
Q: What does a dizzy turkey say?
A: Wobble, Wobble.
Q: What Thanksgiving fruit is served on a UFO?
A: Cranberry Saucer!
Q: Why did the Thanksgiving basket get in trouble at school?
A: It was cornu-copying.
Friday, November 4, 2011
The Devil Made Me Do It
How much of what we do wrong is our own doing and how much is Satan’s fault? The devil tempted Jesus in the desert, our first parents in the Garden of Eden, and he tempts us in our times of trial. In this week’s sermon, we will ponder the idea of a personal devil.
Scripture: I Peter 5:8-9
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Handling Temptation delivered on Christian Crusaders February 21, 2010.
How do we face our temptations? We cannot escape them. But the Holy Spirit, working through the Word, will guide and strengthen us that we might resist Satan. Yet if we in our weakness fall, he will forgive us through Jesus Christ and give us the strength to overcome our sins.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Miss a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to http://www.christiancrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back more than ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed or to relive one you particularly liked again. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
The Devil’s Beatitudes
Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians in Church ~ they are my best workers.
Blessed are those who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked ~ I can use them in my business.
Blessed are those who are touchy. Soon they will stop going to church ~ verily, they shall be my missionaries.
Blessed are those who sow gossip and trouble ~ they are my beloved children.
Blessed are those who have no time to pray ~ for they are MY prey.
Blessed are those who gossip ~ for they are my secret agents.
Blessed are you when you read this and think it has everything to do with other people, and nothing to do with you. ~ I've got room for YOU at my inn.
Scripture: I Peter 5:8-9
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Handling Temptation delivered on Christian Crusaders February 21, 2010.
How do we face our temptations? We cannot escape them. But the Holy Spirit, working through the Word, will guide and strengthen us that we might resist Satan. Yet if we in our weakness fall, he will forgive us through Jesus Christ and give us the strength to overcome our sins.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Miss a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to http://www.christiancrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back more than ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed or to relive one you particularly liked again. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
The Devil’s Beatitudes
Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians in Church ~ they are my best workers.
Blessed are those who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked ~ I can use them in my business.
Blessed are those who are touchy. Soon they will stop going to church ~ verily, they shall be my missionaries.
Blessed are those who sow gossip and trouble ~ they are my beloved children.
Blessed are those who have no time to pray ~ for they are MY prey.
Blessed are those who gossip ~ for they are my secret agents.
Blessed are you when you read this and think it has everything to do with other people, and nothing to do with you. ~ I've got room for YOU at my inn.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Describe Your Relationship With God
Last month we relived some of the terrible events on September 11, 2001. Our nation was attacked, and 3,000 people were killed. Many of those caught in these attacks, finding themselves inadequate to handle the situation, turned to God for help. It is true that we do live in a fallen world and will all have our 9-11’s. Where do we turn when we are crushed?
Scripture: I Peter 5:6-7, 10-11
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Evening That Faith Grew delivered on Christian Crusaders June 21, 2009.
Peter’s sermon at Pentecost was also a wild sea, but the fear was gone. He had come a long way in his relationship with Jesus. His experience of being tossed around on a wild sea in a small boat taught him that Jesus was able to deliver on the promises He had made to the disciples. It has brought me great encouragement in my ministry to watch people grow spiritually as they live with their problems; some of those being big problems. The storms of life come into every life. They can either destroy us or make us strong people of God. Christ alone can empower us to face the storms as we encounter them.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Check out our new online store! Christian Crusaders’ Web site offers a place to shop for materials that will uplift and inspire you. Browse among Rev. Larsen’s five-volume DVD video sermon series; his book You’ll Be Surprised What the Lord Can Do, filled with anecdotes and advice on Christian living; or even request an audio copy of a past sermon. These resources, an extension of our radio program, make great gifts, too.
On the Light Side
A little boy was overhead praying: “Lord, if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.”
Scripture: I Peter 5:6-7, 10-11
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon The Evening That Faith Grew delivered on Christian Crusaders June 21, 2009.
Peter’s sermon at Pentecost was also a wild sea, but the fear was gone. He had come a long way in his relationship with Jesus. His experience of being tossed around on a wild sea in a small boat taught him that Jesus was able to deliver on the promises He had made to the disciples. It has brought me great encouragement in my ministry to watch people grow spiritually as they live with their problems; some of those being big problems. The storms of life come into every life. They can either destroy us or make us strong people of God. Christ alone can empower us to face the storms as we encounter them.
ChristianCrusaders.org
Check out our new online store! Christian Crusaders’ Web site offers a place to shop for materials that will uplift and inspire you. Browse among Rev. Larsen’s five-volume DVD video sermon series; his book You’ll Be Surprised What the Lord Can Do, filled with anecdotes and advice on Christian living; or even request an audio copy of a past sermon. These resources, an extension of our radio program, make great gifts, too.
On the Light Side
A little boy was overhead praying: “Lord, if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.”
Friday, October 21, 2011
Christians' Lives Are Different
The Bible teaches that if we are committed to Jesus Christ, our lives will be different. In the past, some have interpreted this thought by banning card playing and dancing. In today’s culture, it seems that anything goes. So which is correct? We will study St. Peter’s words this week to learn the answer.
Scripture: I Peter 4:1-11
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do – living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Life Is Shaped by Our Choices delivered on Christian Crusaders July 24, 2005.
Look around in your church on a Sunday morning and see how hundreds of people . . . are living exciting lives with Christ as their Lord. They are worshiping as a family. Many of their friends are members of the congregation with similar interests in life. Dad and Mom are considered important employees where they work because of their faithfulness and work ethic. They are a fun family, not because they are better than others, but because they have made a decision to let God's Word be their governing authority and they experience His presence with them each day. They believe you reap what you sow.
Want a Regular Reminder About Christian Crusaders’ Upcoming Sermons?
By joining the ministry's Facebook page, you will receive a weekly reminder about the upcoming sermon. You can also use the page to connect with other Christian Crusaders listeners and post messages about events and information they might be interested in knowing.
On the Light Side
An elderly man went to the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his leg.
“I am afraid it’s just old age,” replied the doctor. “There is nothing we can do about it.”
“That can’t be,” fumed the old man. “You don’t know what you are doing!”
“How can you possibly know I am wrong?” countered the doctor.
“Well it’s quite obvious,” the old man replied. “My other leg is fine, and it’s the exact same age!”
Scripture: I Peter 4:1-11
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do – living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Life Is Shaped by Our Choices delivered on Christian Crusaders July 24, 2005.
Look around in your church on a Sunday morning and see how hundreds of people . . . are living exciting lives with Christ as their Lord. They are worshiping as a family. Many of their friends are members of the congregation with similar interests in life. Dad and Mom are considered important employees where they work because of their faithfulness and work ethic. They are a fun family, not because they are better than others, but because they have made a decision to let God's Word be their governing authority and they experience His presence with them each day. They believe you reap what you sow.
Want a Regular Reminder About Christian Crusaders’ Upcoming Sermons?
By joining the ministry's Facebook page, you will receive a weekly reminder about the upcoming sermon. You can also use the page to connect with other Christian Crusaders listeners and post messages about events and information they might be interested in knowing.
On the Light Side
An elderly man went to the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his leg.
“I am afraid it’s just old age,” replied the doctor. “There is nothing we can do about it.”
“That can’t be,” fumed the old man. “You don’t know what you are doing!”
“How can you possibly know I am wrong?” countered the doctor.
“Well it’s quite obvious,” the old man replied. “My other leg is fine, and it’s the exact same age!”
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Do Not Erase
Life can get real complicated at times. Disappointments and fears challenge our sense of security. However, God’s Word has a simple, but profound bit of counsel to sustain us as we face those moments in our lives. We will consider that counsel in this week’s sermon.
Scripture: II Timothy 2:8
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel, for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon When Your World Stops delivered on Christian Crusaders November 21, 2004.
We hear Paul the Apostle say in the book of Romans, “What are we to say then about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not also with him give us everything else?” Then he goes on to say, “I believe that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ.” He was willing to lay down his life for us. God was willing to say, “Go and rescue my people, I love them.” Surely you and I can count upon Him to hear our prayers and lift us up when our world gets stopped.
About ChristianCrusaders.org
Help Christian Crusaders spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by posting a link to ChristianCrusaders.org from your own personal or business website! Encourage your church to post a link as well. In this way, you can also become a part of the mission to proclaim Jesus Christ and enable Christian Crusaders’ listeners to hear the most important message in the world!
On the Light Side
During the worship service, Rev. Brown asked for parishioners to write their prayer concerns down and hand them to the usher. When they were brought forward, the nearsighted minister glanced at the note that Mrs. Jones sent. The note read, “Bill Jones having gone to sea, his wife desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.
Failing to note the punctuation, Rev. Brown startled his audience by announcing, “Bill Jones, having gone to see his wife, desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.”
Scripture: II Timothy 2:8
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel, for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon When Your World Stops delivered on Christian Crusaders November 21, 2004.
We hear Paul the Apostle say in the book of Romans, “What are we to say then about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not also with him give us everything else?” Then he goes on to say, “I believe that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ.” He was willing to lay down his life for us. God was willing to say, “Go and rescue my people, I love them.” Surely you and I can count upon Him to hear our prayers and lift us up when our world gets stopped.
About ChristianCrusaders.org
Help Christian Crusaders spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by posting a link to ChristianCrusaders.org from your own personal or business website! Encourage your church to post a link as well. In this way, you can also become a part of the mission to proclaim Jesus Christ and enable Christian Crusaders’ listeners to hear the most important message in the world!
On the Light Side
During the worship service, Rev. Brown asked for parishioners to write their prayer concerns down and hand them to the usher. When they were brought forward, the nearsighted minister glanced at the note that Mrs. Jones sent. The note read, “Bill Jones having gone to sea, his wife desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.
Failing to note the punctuation, Rev. Brown startled his audience by announcing, “Bill Jones, having gone to see his wife, desires the prayers of the congregation for his safety.”
Friday, October 7, 2011
What If?
Christians often talk about peace, joy, comfort, and forgiveness. However, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ can also cause suffering and hardship. In this week’s sermon, we will discuss what it means to suffer for our Christian faith, and how to prepare for that suffering.
Scripture: I Peter 3:13-18
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to given an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit . . .
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Stress delivered on Christian Crusaders March 21, 2004.
To be faithful in our Christian witness can often cause stress, but Jesus teaches us how to handle this stress. He does not tell us to work at adopting more moderate views in our Christian witness. No, instead we are to remain strong, and when those hours of stress come, listen to what he says in his Word.
A Quick Way to Start Your Day on an Uplifting Note
ChristianCrusaders.org features a daily devotion, front and center on the site’s home page, where you can immediately find food for spiritual thought anytime you need it. Then visit the Faith Links page for further Bible helps!
On the Light Side
A young woman went to her doctor complaining of pain. “Where are you hurting?” asked the doctor.
“You have to help me, I hurt all over,” said the woman.
“What do you mean all over?” asked the doctor, “You must be a little more specific.”
The woman touched her right knee with her index finger and yelled, “Ouch! That hurts.” Then she touched her left cheek and again yelled, “Ouch! That hurts, too.” Then she touched her right earlobe, “Ouch! Even THAT hurts,” she cried.
The doctor checked her thoughtfully for a moment and then gave her his diagnosis, “You have a broken finger.”
Scripture: I Peter 3:13-18
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to given an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit . . .
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This thought is adapted from the sermon Stress delivered on Christian Crusaders March 21, 2004.
To be faithful in our Christian witness can often cause stress, but Jesus teaches us how to handle this stress. He does not tell us to work at adopting more moderate views in our Christian witness. No, instead we are to remain strong, and when those hours of stress come, listen to what he says in his Word.
A Quick Way to Start Your Day on an Uplifting Note
ChristianCrusaders.org features a daily devotion, front and center on the site’s home page, where you can immediately find food for spiritual thought anytime you need it. Then visit the Faith Links page for further Bible helps!
On the Light Side
A young woman went to her doctor complaining of pain. “Where are you hurting?” asked the doctor.
“You have to help me, I hurt all over,” said the woman.
“What do you mean all over?” asked the doctor, “You must be a little more specific.”
The woman touched her right knee with her index finger and yelled, “Ouch! That hurts.” Then she touched her left cheek and again yelled, “Ouch! That hurts, too.” Then she touched her right earlobe, “Ouch! Even THAT hurts,” she cried.
The doctor checked her thoughtfully for a moment and then gave her his diagnosis, “You have a broken finger.”
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