Elevation North has News for YOU!

LAVISH LOVE! Wouldn’t all of us love to be lavished with love … real love?! In a fallen world where all too often we experience judgment and criticism, sarcasm and put-downs – wouldn’t it be great to receive a whole lot of love and affirmation and kindness from others? Is it too much to ask for? Is it too much to hope for? If in the past we’ve expected it, we’ve been disappointed. If we assumed the love from others would measure up, we’ve found it lacking. For after all, others are human. Just like we are. When it comes to loving like we should, we all fail from time to time. We want to love genuinely and lavishly – but we let a lot of things hold us back. All kinds of issues in our own lives that have not ever been dealt with properly keep us from loving without restraint, from loving unconditionally, and of course, from loving lavishly. There’s only one place to turn for the kind of lavish love that we all desire and long for. Yes, you know it. Only God can love us fully like we need to be loved. And what an incredible love that is!!! If you’ve experienced it personally, then you know what it’s like to be loved lavishly! That word means “extravagantly” … “abundantly” … “more than you could have wished for” … ! Being loved that way means that we’ll be loved in a way that’s far above the norm. By today’s standards, you get what someone else thinks you have coming – and nothing more. But you see, God’s love looks at us and pats us on the back. When everyone else sees something lacking, something less than perfect ~ God sees us as His creation and He sees us at our fullest potential, and if need be, He can love us to that attainment. We just need to believe how very much He loves us!!! If we cannot understand all that He has said in His Word about His love … then surely, just “seeing” that He put His life where His mouth was – and gave it all, His very last breath, in fact, His LIFE … for US; you’d think we’d get that! And getting that … should shoot some spiritual adrenaline into our very souls, allowing us to pick ourselves up by the bootstraps and say, “God, if You love me THAT much – and You believe in me THAT much, then I definitely need to follow suit and believe in every iota of potential that You put within me when You breathed life into ME! What a love Yours is! There is none like it!” When others lavish love on us, it costs them something precious, too. They put their heart and soul into planning how they will show their undying love to us. It costs them their time. It costs them their money. Or their creativity and talents. Lavish love often comes in the form of an unexpected favor or surprise. Sometimes it’s boxed and gift-wrapped. Other times it’s tucked inside an envelope. Once in awhile, it comes in the form of an e-mail. And the gift of time comes wrapped in a million different ways, but is one of the most precious and valuable gifts we can choose to lavish on another human being – be it family, friend, or acquaintance. Even a stranger! I believe that God would have us follow His example and love the world around us lavishly. Open your eyes wider than ever before to see those that may not seem to have it all together … they just very well might be the ones that need your lavish love the most! We sure didn’t have it all together before Jesus came to wash us clean and show us the incredible future He was planning for us! But He looked beyond that, and came to us anyway. And still sometimes – we don’t have it all together! Most days bring to us amazing, lavish love … either by God’s hand directly, or through people like you that He uses to accomplish His purposes. And what great joy comes by reversing the role and becoming the “giver” instead of the recipient. Just seeing the difference that lavish love can make in someone’s life is one of the most rewarding things ever! When you lavish love on someone else … they blossom! They become more fruitful. They respond to lavish love just like a flowering plant responds to sunshine and warmth and rain. They bloom all the more. And soon their increased awareness of how special they are to God and to you – causes them to be empowered to reach out to others with lavish love. And so the circle ever widens to include more and more people who are in such great need of this lavish love. Where did it start? Well, it started in the Father’s heart, it was given out by Jesus on the Cross, and it gets passed forward through the Holy Spirit. To him … to her … to them … and on and on and on! Scripture tells us, “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are.” I John 3:1 (NIV) Verse 18 goes on to say, “My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love. This is the only way we’ll know we’re living truly, living in God’s reality.” (The Message Bible) So dear ones, receive God’s lavish love today … and in turn, lavish your God-given love to others around you and even to others afar off!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WE CONSIDER IT SUCH A HIGH PRIVILEGE to gather together in God’s House and lift our hearts and voices in worship to our God! Pastor Doug preached the final message from the book of Jude, ending on a call to persevere as believers in this world today.
- OUR CHURCH FAMILY CELEBRATES LOTS OF BIRTHDAYS this month of November, and this week we join in extending special birthday wishes to: Mary on the 21st; Tina on the 23rd; Connie on the 24th; Christian on the 25th; and Sierra on the 27th! May each of you experience God’s blessings in full measure all year long!
- OUR VERY SPECIAL THANKS to Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s friends, Steve and Cindy, from northern Minnesota, who sowed a $10 seed into this ministry several weeks ago! We felt impressed to share that seed with a different church family from time to time and allow them to “grow” that seed. Our thanks to those of you who helped with that challenge – and we want to report that the $10 increased into $80 for the ministry and outreach of Elevation North – which we would not have had without their love gift! May God bless you, Steve and Cindy!! You truly blessed us and encouraged us! A “SPECIAL THANK YOU” to our monthly supporters, as well! How grateful we are!!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE & SPECIAL THANKSGIVING SERVICE as we focus on God’s goodness and our gratitude to Him! Come and be an active participant in worship & thanksgiving!
- 11:15 A.M. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES – These are opportunity sessions for getting to know God’s Word better, for sharing your questions and thoughts, and for fellowship in the Word – geared to all ages!
- 5:30 P.M. – THANKSGIVING LOVE FEAST & FELLOWSHIP W/COMMUNION for our church family and friends! We are so excited about this special event – an evening you won’t want to miss!
- THIS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24TH: NO BIBLE STUDY this week … enjoy the evening at home as you prepare for family and friends on Thanksgiving Day!
- THIS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25TH: A BLESSED THANKSGIVING to everyone from Pastor Doug & Debbie! We are SO thankful to God for each of you; may you be blessed with an incredible day of enjoyment and rest!
- A CHRISTMAS MINISTRY/CELEBRATION LISTING for the month of December is available for you to take home so you’ll have an easy-to-view reminder! All events/dates/times will be included in our next blog update!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- OFTEN OUR NEEDS can overwhelm us when they are many and they are big … but nothing overwhelms our God! Let’s uphold Henry, Tina, Julia’s brother, Roger & Cindy, Kay and several unspoken requests! Let’s trust God for breakthrough and provision for a “home” to house Elevation North! Lift up our missionaries & evangelists in prayer daily and trust God for a harvest of souls here in America and around the world!

- REMEMBER . . . “Proclaim thankfulness to God each day … for all that you DO have!”


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie Jones

Elevation North has News for YOU!

DESPERATE. For what? Well, for one thing, I think that millions all over the world are desperate for some answers that make sense. Desperate, for what? Well, for another thing, I think that these same millions globally are searching for peace and contentment. Desperate, for what else? Well, for millions of others, there is always the issue of love – I mean real, genuine love. And just where are people supposed to find these kinds of things? From the media commentators? In the movies? From government sources? From friends and family? Or maybe, from a one-of-a-kind book? Hey, that’s exactly where to find answers that make sense … peace and contentment … genuine love … and so much more! Well, it’s really a one-of-a-kind Book – with a “capital B” – or the Bible, as we’ve come to know it. What it really is – is God’s very Word. It contains His heartbeat, His passion, His love, His message, His commands, His gifts, His miracles, His story. It’s His love letter to us. It’s our ticket to live forever … and ever … and ever! It provides an intimate connection with the God of the universe Who wants to spend time with us and hear us and answer us. He wants to lead us and guide us and show us His ways. He wants to help us make sense out of what will possibly never make sense on this earth. He tells us to trust … and He promises comfort. His words of love fill in every empty hole that’s ever pierced our hearts. His words bring to us hope when in despair we thought there was none left. Yeah, you say, all of that sounds good – but how do I find these things in a Book that I still have so much to learn from? Well, simply put, what do you know the most about? And why? Is it possibly because you’ve spent the most time in that arena of your life? Maybe you know everything there is to know (almost!) about your job. How much time do you put into learning what you need to know? Maybe you know everything (almost!) there is to know about your business. How much time do you put into acquiring knowledge about every aspect of owning your own company? Maybe you know everything (almost!) there is to know about your favorite hobby or interest. How much time have you put into making plans to pursue it or getting supplies and materials and tools for it? Alright, you say, I’m getting the picture! So then, simply put, we’ll find these answers we’re searching for, this peace and contentment, and this real love … if we spend more time in this Book, right? Yes, you’ve got it! The more time we spend in God’s Word, the more we’ll come to know and understand what He wants us to know. What He’s been trying to tell us all along – but we weren’t listening! Or we heard it briefly – but it just went in one ear and out of the other! Nothing stuck. In the daily battle my husband and I face with attempting to plan for balance in our lives (with all of our work hours), God has been impressing on my heart more and more an urgency of actually immersing ourselves in His Word and in His presence. What do you mean, immerse myself in the Word? Well, let’s figure it out literally. To immerse yourself in something means that you plunge into it and you absorb it. Think of yourself as a dry sponge. (We have to admit that we feel that way sometimes!) You plunge your dry self into the Word of God and you soak it up, absorbing what you’ve just thrust yourself into. The longer you’re immersed in the Word, the more you are saturated and filled with what’s in there. You emerge, no longer dry … but filled with some answers that you’ve never had before. You’re oozing with a greater measure of peace and contentment than you’ve felt in a long time. You feel like you’ve soaked up enough real love so that you actually have some you can spill out onto others. And the list can go on and on! Whatever it is you’ve been desperate for … can be found right inside the pages of God’s Word! It contains every promise we will ever need. We can count on it to be solid. We can stand on its principles. While God’s Word breaks down strongholds, loosens chains, and sets captives free … there is one addiction - that in the right sense of the word – would be advantageous to us. And that is the addictive longing and desperation … the deep hunger pangs and the parched thirst … for the Word of God! The passionate stirring within, where nothing, absolutely nothing – could or would – keep us from the Word of God and being in His presence! Is that easy to do? No, a million times, no! But instead of setting God aside and giving Him the leftovers of our time, let’s decide what “other things” to set aside, so that God gets first place in our lives. With that mindset and setting our hearts up for success when it comes to learning more of God, there’s no way we’ll come up short. We’ll experience so much more of our Lord than before and be surprised at “how much sticks”! We’ll have more to share with the world around us in these strategic days in the Kingdom of God! Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure everything out on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the One who will keep you on track.” (The Message Bible)

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WHILE WE LOVE TO MEET WITH OUR GOD, we are so glad that He loves to meet with us, too! And that was so evident this past Sunday as we poured our hearts out to our Heavenly Father! Our Sunday School time was especially meaningful and precious!
- BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS & WISHES to Ernie who celebrates his birthday on November 13th, and to Laura who will be celebrating her birthday on November 17th! May both of you experience God’s special love and favor!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE, along with Pastor Doug’s message that will conclude the three part-series from the book of Jude. Small book in the Bible – but powerful and relevant for today! Come and worship & exalt our God, and continue on with our 10.10.10 spiritual challenge!
- 11:15 A.M. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES – These are sessions you don’t want to miss … God is meeting us here by His Spirit as we learn more from His Word and take time to share from our hearts and receive His touch!
- THIS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – “LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY; come and meet with Pastor Doug & Debbie at their home for an exciting time in the Word! You’ll be glad you did!
- NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST: 10 A.M. WORSHIP & PRAISE / 11:15 A.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL / 5:30 P.M. – THANKSGIVING FEAST & FELLOWSHIP w/COMMUNION (check out the sign-up sheet for bringing food!)
- WATCH FOR A COMPLETE LISTING next week of our Christmas Season services and events and outreach!!!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- EITHER WE BELIEVE GOD IS WHO HE SAYS HE IS … OR WE DON’T! Believing He is who He says He is, brings to us a level of increased faith for answers and healing and provision and all that we need! Looking around us at all the people we know and love, how we need God’s divine touch! This week, please lift up Tina, Justin, Rendy’s dad & family, Henry, Ernie & Audry, Justin, Roger, and Kay. Let’s hold up our students of all ages, our military and veterans, our spiritual leaders, & our leaders in government. May God ignite all of us at Elevation North – to PRAY!

- REMEMBER . . . “When we ask for God’s mighty presence like the early church did, we will also see tremendous results that can be explained only as coming from the hand of God.” ~ Bruce Wilkinson



Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS?? In a room full of people, we would hear lots of different answers. But there’s one answer that ALL of us should have when we are asked that question. I heard a quote this week that I think all of us should take to heart: “When you make God’s business YOUR business … He will make your business HIS business!” (Pastor Jentezen Franklin) Think about that for awhile. Do we really make God’s business ours, or do we push it afar off thinking that certainly HE can take care of His own business. Think a bit further. Sometimes in our own business, we wonder where God is at! Does He see what’s going on down here? Does He see we’re having troubles making our business successful and profitable? Well, this pastor went on to say, “When we get in the field – we find the Master! The treasure is in the field!” How profound! We’ve just got to look in the right place! When we do that, we realize that in pursuing the Master’s business first – ours gets God’s full attention and assistance – even God’s supernatural blessing! So, I guess we all need to “get into the field!” What field? Well, the harvest field (the one where souls are ripe and ready to be harvested for Jesus Christ!). What better harvest could we have than that?! This carries right into the continuation of nuggets of truth gleaned a few weekends ago at the Women of Faith conference. That opportunity definitely qualifies as a harvest field … in a crowd that huge, there are many who have never asked Jesus into their heart to be their Lord and Savior. But these women have come hungry and hurting and ready for something – or - Someone who can bring answers and change into their struggling souls. Even as believers, often we come hungry and hurting and ready for our God to bring about the needed touch in our souls that we long for. They walk into the field and discover the Treasure they never knew was there before … Jesus and eternal life! We walk into the field and help rescue them by sharing the Treasure with them. While there, we discover greater depths of the Treasure than we ourselves ever knew before! What a place to be! Last week I referred to one of our conference speakers, Andy Andrews. He likened our life experiences to a football game when he said, “We get to be in the second half!” He stated that “we change after we’ve been in the locker room. We need to come out for the second half – where the best is still to be fulfilled! The purpose, the hope, the influence, the success - is still to come!” We can hear the pep talks, the words of approval and affirmation. But if we decide to remain in the locker room and never come out, we’ll miss out on all that the second half holds. We’ll miss out on being about God’s business. It was interesting that as many people as Andy encounters in his walk of life, this was his take on living a life based on emotions: “Of all the people who have offended me, no one has disappointed me like I have disappointed myself.” He went on to share that we cannot be the kind of people we want to be if we hold a grudge against ourselves. So we must change what goes into our mind, because it stays there. Our lives are too important to allow our mindsets and emotions to steal the amazing plays and touchdowns that God has planned for us in the second half of our circumstances and our relationships, you see. Patsy Clairmont reminded us that God’s ways are not ours – and change does not always come dressed like we think it should be. Change can be disruptive, abrupt, and even scary. But how we need to be reconnected to trusting God with all that is within us, holding on tight and never giving up! When the answers come and we see the outcome, that’s when we can say, “See, this is why we never give up!” And then it was Marilyn Meberg who challenged us to go after MORE … more of what’s good. She told us that we cannot always live in the adrenaline rush of more cravings. We think “more” will satisfy. And then when we get more, that still isn’t the total satisfaction that we longed for. There’s a deeper itch in our soul, she said. Profoundly she stated, “Life as it is on this earth will never satisfy all of our ‘more’ needs!” But Jesus understands our cravings. And I might add, that’s exactly why He’s out in the field waiting for us to show up as we’re searching for “more” of what we think we need – while all along it’s really been HIM! Jesus offers us Living Water that will satisfy our every craving. And His gift of eternal life in John 3:16, is His plan to end our itch and our cravings. Marilyn wrapped it up by inviting us to “see” Jesus as He sits at the well of our hearts and offers us that Living Water and forgiveness of our sins! What will YOU do with that invitation, dear friend? It’s got your name on it, you know! If you need an “over the top” solution … here it is: HIS NAME IS JESUS! Run to the field, He is out there just waiting for you! He will be the best treasure you’ve ever discovered ~ and the best business partner you’ve ever had!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- OUTSTANDING ~ that’s what each Sunday morning is at Elevation North – because Jesus is in our midst! We are always blessed beyond words because He arrives ahead of us, stays throughout the entire service, and then graciously offers to go home with us into our new week! Yes, His presence is THAT real! We loved hearing God’s Word preached from the book of Jude as Pastor Doug passionately shared the message!
- SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES go out to Harold who celebrates on November 9th; may you be especially blessed that day and throughout the coming year!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE, continuing with part two of Pastor Doug’s messages from the book of Jude! What treasures are found in the Scriptures!! Remember to surge forward with our special 10.10.10 challenge – being in God’s Word, spending time in prayer, and choosing to do something for God’s Kingdom work at Elevation North!
- 11:15 A.M. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES – where you can participate in informal discussion, share your heart, ask questions, and leave feeling like you’ve gleaned more of the riches in God’s Word!
- THIS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – ‘LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at the home of Pastor Doug and Debbie. We are so excited that our group is growing as we go deeper in the Word!
- SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST: 5:30 P.M. – SPECIAL THANKSGIVING FEAST & FELLOWSHIP for all!
- CHRISTMAS SEASON SERVICES/EVENTS/OUTREACH – Each Sunday all month long, we have special things planned for worship … additional fellowship opportunities for the church family … and community outreach! Check last week’s blog update for details!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- NO ONE CAN HEAR & ANSWER LIKE OUR GOD DOES!!! Each week God simply amazes us at how present He is in every situation – we see evidence of His personal work in so many lives! This coming week, you can join us in praying for: Chuck, Julia, Tina, Justin, Rendy’s dad & family, Roger, Kay, & Norma’s family. Let’s lift up our nation’s leaders, our military, our students, our pastors, missionaries, and evangelists! Let’s claim revival and a harvest of souls as we declare breakthrough at Elevation North for the glory of God! Be sure to THANK GOD for His goodness!

- REMEMBER . . . “If we learn how to give of ourselves, to forgive others, and to live with thanksgiving, we need not seek happiness. It will find us.” ~ unknown


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

OVER THE TOP! What a theme! And who wouldn’t love to have THOSE words describe our lifestyle!!! Over the top … that’s exactly what our Elevation North women and friends experienced this past weekend at the Women of Faith Conference in St. Paul! It was amazing, totally amazing! Every late hour, every missed minute of sleep to get things accomplished so I could go last Friday and Saturday was so worth it! Though as believers we drink in each day from being in the presence of Christ and spending time in His Word and in prayer … there is something special about getting together once a year with nearly 20,000 women in one place! We all come as we are, excited to be there and thrilled to be with each other, yet carrying some things besides our luggage that we desire to lay down and leave at the feet of Jesus. And … like any other day, these two days are the perfect time to do so! These speakers and musicians and dramatists that have come, are well-known. They are gifted and God’s given them a huge stage to share their message with thousands upon thousands. But as you sit there and listen to what God has given them to say to us, we can surely relate – because they’ve gone through major trials and heartbreak and struggles during the past twelve months, just like we have. The stories they tell could be ours. Sometimes we think they ARE telling our story! Sometimes we laugh until tears come to our eyes. In the next moment, tears are running down our cheeks because we are so touched by the Spirit of God. We couldn’t hold those tears in if we tried with all our might. It’s a precious, wonderful release of lots of emotions and stress, and God does a work of art in our hearts throughout those 48 hours that brings us out of that event a changed person. We find the same freedoms that our speakers have found in the past twelve months. We are reminded of the joys we’ve experienced throughout this past year - as they share their joys because of the goodness of God revealed time and time again! Patsy Clairmont, once suffering from agoraphobia that kept her captive in her own home, now stands before thousands of women multiple times a year. She shared of the struggles their family went through with their son as he battled the H1N1 virus. With his very life in danger, God sent just the right doctor to discern the specific treatment needed, through a series of changes that Patsy initially fought against. Their son’s life was spared because of God’s intervention! Patsy said that “God expects us to be an active participant in His answers and miracles for us.” She went on to say that “God has designed us with a will that is stronger than any emotions we can have!” And I loved her statement that “forgiveness is life’s reset button!” Andy Andrews, orphaned and homeless at 19, now speaks to top corporations all over the world. He challenged us to have perspective about our lives and to notice the little things that make a difference in people’s lives. What we do causes an effect on others, which in turn has an effect on others yet – on and on, which is called “the butterfly effect”. In another message, Andy emphasized the difference between a mistake and a choice. “I’m sorry,” covers a mistake. Choice requires forgiveness: “Will you forgive me?” Every choice we make, every action we take, makes a difference! Because everything we do makes a difference … everything we do matters! What especially mattered to me this past weekend, was seeing the faces of the women I was attending with. Seeing them find freedom in the expression of their worship to God, seeing them moved and challenged by the Spirit of God, seeing them find joy and release in nurturing new friendships … all of that just made my heart soar! What is so incredible is that in the midst of thousands of women – when it would be so easy to just get lost in the crowd – God shows Himself to be so very personal to each of us! Whatever it is we are experiencing, He knows all about it. Wherever we are at in our emotions, He knows how we are feeling. However we feel we are lacking – or if we’re just about at the breaking point, He’s there to meet our need and rescue us! Sandi Patti lifted her voice in amazing praise and reminded us that when we feel like we’re on the edge – even the edge of disaster … remember, it could be the edge of the divine! Our hearts were filled to overflowing, and we just kept taking in! Now, back home, we can continue to pour out more and more out of the abundance that God blessed us with! There’s way too much to share in this one “chat” … so there will be more to come!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- GOD STIRRED WITHIN US something powerful this past Sunday as His Spirit hovered in our midst! It was great to hear the passion and excitement in the voices of the women who attended Women of Faith as they shared their testimonies from the weekend conference! And what a powerful conclusion to the “The Fingerprints of God” sermon series as preached by Pastor Doug … our hearts were challenged and moved to truly be God’s fingerprints in this world!
- WELCOME BACK to Julia ~ who has not been able to be with us for some time. God has strengthened and touched her and brought her back to us as a testimony of God’s love and power! We’ve missed you, Julia!!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31ST: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE, beginning a new series of messages by Pastor Doug that you will not want to miss! And we urge everyone to stay committed to the ”10.10.10” Spiritual Challenge that Pastor Doug set out before us – for ten weeks! We already see God’s hand upon our church and our people as we draw closer to Him! Let’s continue faithfully and see what God will do!
- 11:15 A.M. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES for all ages – to help us go deeper in our knowledge of God & His Word!
- THIS WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 3RD: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – ‘LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s home. They invite you to join the growing group as we open our Bibles, drink in the teaching, and share our hearts in some awesome discussions!
- SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST: 5:30 P.M. – THANKSGIVING FEAST & FELLOWSHIP for everyone!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5TH: CHRISTMAS CAROLING CHURCH PARTY w/snacks and a Christmas movie!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12TH: CAROLING TO THE COMMUNITY w/Chili & crackers & Christmas treats!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19TH: 10 A.M. – SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SERVICE is being planned!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26TH: 10 A.M. – END-OF-YEAR CHALLENGE/CELEBRATION SERVICE!
- FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31ST: NEW YEAR’S EVE GATHERING w/games, a movie, and breakfast!

PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- WHAT AN INCREDIBLE GOD WE HAVE! He answers us over and over, and He is so worthy of our praise and adoration! This week let’s join in prayer for Tina, Chuck, LaFawn, Julia’s brother, Roger, Kay, and Norma – as well as special unspoken requests. We encourage you to pray for each other, that we might grow deeper in our walk with the Lord; to pray for the people of our nation as we go to the election polls to vote this Tuesday – that we will vote for those who follow after God and righteousness; to pray for our church as we seek to reach out and be all that God intends! And how we pray for God’s special blessings & favor upon our monthly supporters!!

- REMEMBER . . . “Live for something … Write your name in kindness, love, and mercy on the hearts of thousands you come in contact with … you will never be forgotten.” Thomas Chalmers


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

SOUNDS OF LAUGHTER echo through the autumn breezes on this sunny afternoon. It may very well be one of the last few balmy days that we’ll be gifted with until the chill of the cold winter temps moves in and takes over. As I am home on a rare afternoon off from work, I throw open the blinds and let the sunshine stream in and allow my eyes and ears to drink in the stimulating, yet enjoyable sights and sounds of the season! The laughter … prods me to pose the question: “Why don’t we do more of it?” Possibly it’s because through the recent years there is less and less to laugh about. We find ourselves on the brink of stress and tears much more often than we used to – yes, even believers will have to admit to that. But that’s really sad, because that isn’t at all how God meant for us to live! He is, after all, the Creator of laughter, and the Giver of the moments and circumstances that cause us to laugh and smile! Don’t you long to find laughter again? There’s something to be said for all it brings to our lives … it’s proof of good times and the outward expression of humorous antics or words … it’s a physical release for stress and sadness … it’s a medicine that’s packaged inside of us, with no bar code to scan for the cost, and it definitely is not generic! It’s unique and priceless and healing! Talking about smiles ~ I absolutely love how God ministers to me through music, time and time again! This morning, two songs rang out and right into my soul … and I found myself smiling. Sometimes I even break out into laughter – because my spirits are so lifted and I’m so reminded of what I perhaps already knew – but just needed to hear again, or in a different way! The first song was so worshipful and I was drawn into worship as I heard the lyrics … “The best of life for me is at Your feet!” Yes, Lord, those moments are definitely the best of all, but I yearn for those times to increase in length and in frequency. I long for more and more of the “best” – which comes when I spend time at Your feet, I know. And out of those times will come the foundation for changes within and without - that will bring a new stream of laughter into my life. The same is true for you! The next song grabbed me and held me at attention … and I ran for pen and paper. Some of the words I scribbled down were, “When all these things come into our lives, the Master is saying, ‘GET UP’! The Holy Ghost is saying, ‘enough is enough’! You’ve been down long enough ~ GET UP!” I felt the message resonate in my spirit, and I hope you will, too! When I heard those two words, GET UP, I knew it would be a part of what I would be sharing with you today. Jesus said those words many times throughout the course of meeting people’s needs and doing miracles as recorded in the New Testament. In Matthew 9, Jesus takes Jairus’ dead daughter by the hand and she GETS UP! In Acts 9, Jesus turns toward the dead woman, and says, “Tabitha, GET UP!” She opened her eyes and sat up! Could there be a personal message in those two words for each of us? I believe there is. I believe wholeheartedly, that in the midst of sickness and suffering, instead of just accepting it, our Lord is telling us to GET UP, for He is the Healer! I believe that in the midst of financial struggles, instead of pulling back and giving up, God is telling us to GET UP, for He is the Provider! I believe that in the midst of sadness and loneliness, instead of assuming no one cares, our God is telling us to GET UP, for He is the Comforter! I believe that in the hour of confusion and indecision, instead of working ourselves into a frenzy, God is telling us to GET UP, for He is our GPS (God Positioning System)! You get the idea?! Just last week, my husband and I found ourselves finally getting to redeem our incredible gift from our children and grandchildren … for a hot air balloon ride! There was a process to GETTING UP in the air, but once there … what a spectacular experience!!! The view was a panoramic 360 degree feast for the eyes from 700 feet in the air spanning fifty miles in every direction. It was incredible … the sights and sounds made us smile and laugh AND thank our Creator for the amazing beauties of this earth! High above, or skimming low just above tree branches and lower yet over lakes with our reflection in the water, everywhere we turned there was something to “ooh and aah” over! The Artist’s palette of autumn colored trees, the vivid greens to dull tans of grasses, the blues and whites of the sky we were floating through, the translucent deep blues of the calm waters below, the sounds of happy voices and laughter on the ground wafting through the air straight to our listening ears, the scurrying of wildlife into the cover of the brush, and so much more ~ brought to us a sense of BEING UP ABOVE the craziness of this world … and all was at peace! We could feel God speaking to our spirits to GET UP in every arena of our lives, for He is the Orchestrator of all of life and He definitely wants us to hear His music of hope for every new day that dawns! People, let’s GET UP above the junk of life and experience the best our God has to offer … at His feet … and up above our circumstances!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- HOW WE LOVE TO WORSHIP OUR GOD as we express in our own ways what is in our hearts! It’s hard to explain being in the presence of the Living God, but there is nothing that compares! Though still a small church family, God’s presence is with us just as real as it is in any mega-church, because we’ve invited Him to be with us!
- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Ernie. Audrey, and Sharon who worshipped with us for the first time this past Sunday; our prayer is that you experienced God’s Spirit and our love! We hope to see you again soon!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24th: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE, with the completion of the series on the “Ten Fingerprints of God” – this one from Psalm 100:2 and other scriptures on “Serving with Gladness … and Leaving His Fingerprints on Your World”. Don’t miss this powerful conclusion! And continue forward with the “10.10.10” Spiritual Challenge that Pastor Doug gave to us on October 10th; we’re believing for God’s mighty work in our midst!

- 11:15 A.M. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES for everyone from young to the young at heart … come & study with us!
- THIS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 27th: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – ‘LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at the home of Pastor Doug and Debbie. We’re learning lots and having great discussions, so plan to come and join in!
- SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST: 5:30 P.M. – THANKSGIVING FEAST & FELLOWSHIP for the entire family!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5TH: 5 P.M. - CHRISTMAS CAROLING CHURCH PARTY w/snacks & a Christmas movie!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12TH: 4 P.M. – CAROLING TO THE COMMUNITY w/Chili & crackers & Christmas treats!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19TH: 10 A.M. – SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SERVICE is being planned!
- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26TH: 10 A.M. – END-OF-YEAR CHALLENGE/CELEBRATION SERVICE!
- FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31ST: NEW YEAR’S EVE GATHERING w/games, a movie, and breakfast!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- WHAT GRATITUDE IS DUE OUR GOD! We pray in faith believing, and He answers in miraculous ways – over and over! How we thank God for His wondrous works! Continue to lift up Julia, Tina, LaFawn, Cherry, Jimmy, Roger, Kay; remember our students locally and away at college; pray for our military, our nation’s leaders, and for wisdom in voting for godly people; for our missionaries and evangelists; for the lost and unreached; for unspoken requests; and for God’s provision in all things for Elevation North!!!

- REMEMBER . . . “You are valuable just because you exist. Not because of what you do or what you have done, but simply because you are.” ~ Max Lucado


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

“LORD, STIR US TO BELIEVE THE IMPOSSIBLE!” That’s what I challenged our congregation on Sunday morning to pray for. Little do we know sometimes how difficult it is to believe that way ~ especially when we cannot see beyond our fingertips, so to speak! We feel like we’re in the dark. Nothing seems to be clear. We grope for something tangible and grasp at straws. Neither is the solution. There is only one way out … and that is to keep our eyes aligned with the Light. My heart goes out to the 33 Chilean miners who spent 69 days practically entombed a half mile under the earth in darkness. I simply cannot imagine the mental anguish they endured, the fears they felt and faced. There was the unknown … would they ever see daylight up above ever again? Would they ever have the opportunity to lay eyes on their loved ones yet again? I have a sense that being in what must have seemed like hell on earth had to pull at the very core of their being. They perhaps had never faced such odds, staring death in the face – well, what they could imagine it looked like in the darkness. I’ve not had the time to watch much of the television coverage of their ordeal and their rescue, only a few minutes at the point of near completion of the intense operation. But that’s all it took to sear their emotions upon my heart, and now it will spill over to this message. Sixty-nine days! Did you know that equals millions of thoughts!!! And being human, most of our thoughts are negative until we get control of them and turn them around. I wonder at what point these miners realized that their very survival depended upon the thoughts they would allow to fill their minds. I wonder how many knew Christ personally at the time of their entrapment – and how many came to know who He is while deep down in the earth! I wonder if there was at least one who knew Christ at the outset of this chilling occurrence. If there was, perhaps he was the strong one who became their link to hope. Perhaps he was their encourager, their inspiration, their stability in the swing of their emotions. Perhaps he stirred them to believe the impossible! Life had to take on a completely different perspective from a half mile down. What was important up on top, perhaps seemed of little or no significance trapped under the earth. Perhaps if truth be known, they saw more clearly in the dense darkness than they did in the skewed light above where too many voices shout out deception and lies and half-truths. Perhaps the knowledge that they could be facing their death at any moment, forced them to think about where they would be spending eternity. That question at least had to run through their minds at least once, if not over and over – until they could come up with an honest answer. Did the one – or more than one – who knew Christ find a ready-made mission field, ripe and ready to harvest? Did heaven rejoice because one or more saw the Light on one of those 69 days in darkness? Perhaps we’ll never know all the answers to the questions we have … we can only imagine what it must have been like. We can only imagine how these 33 lives have been impacted because of their ordeal. For some, nightmares might be a common occurrence. For others, peace will be theirs’ for the first time in their lives. No matter what we think or how we sum this all up … there is really no other option than to believe that these 33 were gifted with an incredible miracle of survival when all odds were against them! And if I had been one of those miners who was rescued, I would have realized long before my first glimpse of daylight … that THERE IS NO ONE ELSE LIKE YOU, GOD!!! No one! It was YOU who gave sanity … YOU who gave strength … YOU who gave peace … and YOU who gave hope! And it was YOU who put Your hand of favor upon that outstanding rescue operation from day one until the last miner was pulled to safety! All 33 lives could have been lost, yet God chose otherwise. I wonder what unique plans He has for these miners. I guess time will tell. And I have a feeling that throngs will be listening. My prayer is that God’s divine protection will be threaded through the stories that are told – and that multiplied scores who hear will be rescued from another very real darkness that seeks to blind the people of this day. Perhaps these 69 days were allowed so that these lives and others will be saved from utter darkness and destruction, having seen the Light! God specializes in the impossible, you know! His scripts are unforgettable, and they demand a conclusive review from each of us! What will yours be? Only you can write it!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WHAT FREEDOM WE HAVE as we come together to worship the one and only True God! What joy we experience as we praise our Father for who He is! What peace we receive as we lay it all down at the feet of Jesus! All of this was a part of our Sunday morning at Elevation North … and for the richness of our time shared together, we honor and glorify our Lord!
- SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES to Chuck, who celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, October 12th! May you always know the fullness of God’s love for you, as well as His blessings and favor!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE, learning more about the 9th fingerprint of God: “He Prunes My Branches” – from John chapter 15. This is a powerful message and portion of scripture that will challenge and change you as you get a glimpse of it from God’s perspective! NEXT SUNDAY’S message will be on the 10th fingerprint of God: “Serve With Gladness … Leave His Fingerprints” – from Psalm 100:2. Plan to join us as we conclude this life-changing series of messages! Think of someone you could invite who would be blessed and encouraged by participating and being ministered to!
- THIS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20TH: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – “LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s home! We are having a great time in the Word, and want to invite YOU to come along with us on this enjoyable and informative study of God’s Word. This week we will be studying Genesis 1-3, “The Beginning of the Beginnings”! If you are new to the study, notebooks and pens are provided; just bring your Bible!
- FELLOWSHIP/FAMILY/FUN SCHEDULE is being planned for the remainder of this year and will be available in printed form very soon! We want YOU to be blessed as we grow together as a church, in Christ, and with each other!
- OCTOBER 22/23: IT IS FINALLY HERE!!! Eleven women will be attending the WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, being refreshed and renewed by God’s Spirit as He speaks through the messages and music and more! Be in prayer for our women, that God will fill them up as they experience this “Over the Top” theme! Any questions as you prepare to go? Check with Tina or Debbie!
- OCTOBER 22: GUYS, remember your STEAK-FRY w/Pastor Doug on Friday evening here at the house at 6:30 P.M. Plan on enjoying a great time together with your Pastor!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- THERE IS NO ONE ELSE LIKE OUR GOD! He proves Himself over and over! Allow Him to prove Himself to you this week, as we lift up those who are in need of healing … in need of direction and discernment … in need of provision … in need of peace! God has come through miraculously for so many, and now we need to be praying for Roger and Kay for healing of cancer, for unspoken requests, for our need for a church building to call home, for our students, for those in spiritual leadership, and for those who govern our states and nation! Lets thank God in advance for what He will do!

- REMEMBER . . . “Are you preparing for where God can use YOU this week?” Get ready, get set, & GO!


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

REMEMBER THE GAMES OF CHILDHOOD? Who knew that we could use them at some of our most intense times and put them to work spiritually? Well, I found out that we can … and it was one of the richest experiences I’ve ever had! Wanna hear about it? During one of my very long, intense days – fighting off sinus symptoms or allergies – both of which I hardly every have – I had fleeting moments of wondering if I was going to make it. When those rare times occur, I usually find myself quoting the scripture, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me,” from Philippians 4:13. This time, it was like I need to pull out all stops. And suddenly the childhood alphabet game came to me – and the idea was instantly there: begin with “A” and praise God for Who He is for each letter of the alphabet all the way through “Z”! There was no hesitation; no thoughts that this would seem silly. It seemed like the most logical thing in the world to do ~ honor God while drawing strength from the knowledge of Who He is! And so I began. A . . . Amazing, Awesome, Adonai, All. B . . . Bread of Life, Blessing-giver, Beautiful One. C . . . Christ, Creator, Comforter, Care-giver, Cross-bearer. Interruptions would come. The moment I could focus again on what I was doing, it came right back to me. D . . . Divine, Deity, Designer, Defender. E . . . Excellent, Eternal, Everlasting. F . . . Father, Friend, Favor-Arranger, Forever. Oh yes, I’m being paged – let me go and take care of that! Now, where was I: E, F, now G . . . God, Glorious, Giver of Life, Great. H . . . Heavenly Father, Healer, Holy Spirit, Helper. I . . . Inviting, Intimate, Idea-Giver, I AM. Wow, I could go on and on! The Names and attributes of my God are endless, and so descriptive! As I praise Him for each of these characteristics that remind me Who He is … I am aware that there is a warmth that is embracing me. A strength that is filling me. A joy that is infusing my spirit. I find that while I am praising my Lord, I am exhibiting greater productivity than normal. I can’t wait to go on. Alright, now I am to J . . . Jesus, Jehovah, Joy-giver, Justice. K . . . Keeper, King of Kings. L . . . Lover of my soul, Lord of Lords, Life-giver. The thoughts just keep coming! My heart is uplifted and my weakened body feels as if it is being carried. Lord, I know You’re right here beside me, with me, the Lifter of my head. And so I continue: M . . . Marvelous, Majestic, Master, Messiah, Miracle-giver. N . . . Name above all names, Newness of life, Never-failing. O . . . Overcoming One, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Only-begotten Son. Who else can say they have an “army of one” like this One? Any misgivings I have about anything should just melt away in the knowledge of Who my God is! I love this next letter: P . . . Personal, Precious, Provider, Priceless, Powerful, Prince of Peace, Promise-giver, Praise-worthy. Q . . . Quoter of Scripture, Quick to come to my rescue, Question-answerer, Quiet-place. R . . . Redeemer, Resurrection, Righteousness, Rock. Ruler. The hours of the clock are running around rapidly. That’s what happens when your mind is set on Christ. Everything seems to go smoother. And God is showing me wonderful favor today – in so many ways! This is so much more than a childhood game! Here I am already at S . . . Savior, Shed blood of Jesus, Sustainer, Solace, Supreme Sacrifice, Shepherd. T . . . Triumphant, Trail-blazer, Teacher. Tear-Dryer. U . . . Understanding One, Undergirder, Unifier, Ultimate Gift, Universe-Creator. This alphabet is drawing to an end – but I will have only scratched the surface when it comes to exalting my God for WHO He is and ALL He is! Here we are at V . . . Victorious, Vigil-Keeper, Vine-dresser, Vision-Giver. W . . . the Word, Wisdom, Wonderful, Warrior, Wind and Wave-Calmer. X . . . Xcellent, Xtravagant, Xtreme, Xalted, (just add an “e” in front of the “x” and it will make sense!) Y . . . Yoke-Lightener, and YOU, Jesus! I can hardly believe that I’ve come to Z ~ but what can I say for Z, Lord? It was like a Voice boomed silently inside of me: “I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.” A smile crossed my face. Oh yes, Lord, You always have the answer! In this case, Z equals Omega, the End! He is from eternity to eternity. From the beginning to the end. Long before my day came to an end, I realized afresh just how fully God was in every moment of my every hour. Childhood game? No, rather a spiritual weapon that won the war over fatigue and sickness, replacing them with unspeakable joy and power and favor! To God be the glory … great is His Name! The next time you’re facing overwhelming odds, remember the “Alphabet Names of Jesus”, and praise Him all the way through it! Your day will become extraordinary! Jesus … Jesus … JESUS!!!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- THERE’S NOTHING LIKE HAVING GOD MEET WITH YOU in the morning hours of HIS day! His Spirit was evident in the music, the message, and the testimonies of those who shared their heart with the family of God this past Sunday!
- OUR SPECIAL THANKS to Jimmy for providing the fresh squeezed grape juice from his homegrown grapes for Communion. What an added blessing to a powerful time in the presence of our Lord!
- LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES to our son, D.J., who is celebrating on October 14th! Thanks for the blessing you are to us, D.J., and may God’s loving favor be evident in your life all year long! We love you, son!
- SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES go out to Lyndel on October 12th! May this be your best year ever!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE, focusing on the 8th fingerprint of God: “He Calms My Storms”. Don’t miss this message as preached by Pastor Doug, coming from personal experience and the Word of God! NEXT SUNDAY: Message – “He Prunes My Branches” from John chapter 15.
- THIS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13TH: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – ‘LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at the home of Pastor Doug and Debbie! This is an exciting study for anyone desiring to learn more of God’s Word! Bring your Bibles … the notebooks and pens are provided!
- THIS SATURDAY: RE: FUEL YOUTH ACTIVITY – laser tag at the recreation center in Mankato! See Pastor D for times and costs!
- FELLOWSHIP/FAMILY/FUN SCHEDULE for the remainder of the year will be available at the end of this month … exciting things are being planned … and we want YOU to be a part of them!
- OCTOBER 22/23: WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE … and the ladies who are registered for this event, “Over the Top” will be receiving full details on Sunday, October 17th!
- OCTOBER 22: ALL ABOUT GUYS STEAK-FRY w/Pastor Doug; plan on a night of great food & fellowship!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING THAT GOD CANNOT DO! We see His hand at work in divine ways over and over! Just this week, we have witnessed two more miracles; how we praise God for His wondrous healing power! Continue to lift up Jimmy, LaFawn, Tina, Mary’s dad, Julia, Roger, Kay, and others! Let’s stand in the gap and never give up when it comes to trusting God for others, and even for our church building! God’s timing is perfect!

- REMEMBER . . . “…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6, (NIV) Yes, He will! (Thanks for the reminder, Randy!)

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

STAMP OF APPROVAL! Hey, don’t we all LOVE having someone put their stamp of approval on what we do, or say, or plan? It’s a great feeling to know that someone else is “with us” on a specific thing – be it what we’re thinking or what we’re working on or what we’re brainstorming about. We love having someone “on our team” or “in our court”! You don’t feel so all alone. You know someone else believes in you and in what you’re doing. Sometimes God allows a “bomb” to drop right smack dab in the middle of our lives that changes everything ~ and we’re not quite sure what to do with what we see as the scattered debris. We question. We wonder. It’s hard to make sense out of turmoil sometimes. Seeing revealing photographs of what the flood has left in its wake pulls at my heartstrings as I ache for those who have experienced the “bombshell" effect this past week. Thank God no lives were lost … what was most important was saved. And yes, things are just things. But as humans, we have a certain fond attachment for the things God has blessed us with. Their house was “home” until the flood waters rendered them “homeless”. I’m sure they never thought that word would describe them! What was most precious, like photos and family keepsakes and treasures, have been lost or have had to be left behind because of the danger of going back in. And yes, some things can be replaced – but we leave a part of our heart in places of our lives that we can never go back to. I guess that’s called memories, huh?! Then comes the “turn-around” ~ that distinct moment when the decision is made to surge forward in spite of the changes. I think it’s called “bittersweet”. You know you can no longer hold on to the past – and you embrace the future. But that should actually be a daily occurrence in our lives, you know. With each day’s dawning, we fondly remember yesterday but we move beyond it to the new day and whatever God has for us to embrace in those hours! This morning I was thinking about another type of struggle. And I had to wonder what kind of a struggle it was. Are there struggles even in the heavenlies? I was really wondering what God the Father was feeling when He knew that He had to give up His only Son for all of mankind … some who would reject Him in the most spiteful, hurtful ways. And what was Jesus feeling when He knew He was going to die a death of crucifixion – even be spit on, for a world that in great part did not recognize Him for Who He was, and actually preferred to leave it that way. I cannot imagine. I know how deep my emotions are when I struggle through turmoils that almost take me to my limits. And I know that mine are nothing in comparison to what was going on in the heavenly realms. It’s these spiritual struggles that ultimately cause us to decide where our heart really lies … that will decide what stuff we’re really made of. Bottom-line, what is most important to us. From time to time, God takes things from us because He knows what’s best. Other times, He asks us to give up things voluntarily to see if we are willing to lay everything down for Him. We’ve been in that place several times. He has never taken or asked for everything, but there have been moments when we’ve felt completely stripped. In those places, the very best thing to do is to praise Him. Of course, that’s after the human tears, the battling, the freaking out, etc., etc.!!! Yes, we’re all human, aren’t we?! You see, when God finally breaks through our thoughts and our will and we obey Him ~ then He is pleased and He puts His stamp of approval on us. As ugly as the struggles were, the peace and victory that comes now is even greater. It’s hard to explain. It’s hard to go through … you know. You, with the devastating news of your husband’s cancer; you with the diagnosis of your own colon cancer; you with the loss of your job and needed income; you with waning strength; you with the greatest struggle you’ve ever faced; you with the loss of a loved one; you with impending surgery just around the corner; you with a decision needing to be made that is critically impacting; and you can fill in the blanks from here. You know. You know exactly what I’m talking about. But I hope you also know that you can experience peace that completely pulls together the scattered debris of your life, your health, your struggle, and your situation. Nothing happens in our lives that our God is not aware of. There is no emotion we feel that God is not privy to. Nothing in our lives is a secret kept from God. Thankfully, He sees all. And He knows all. And praise God, He will keep us all! And we’ll know we’ve gotten it right when God purposely turns and stamps His approval on us! There’s no better accolades we can receive than that! Lord, bring breakthrough to our hearts so that we can be stamped by Your affirmation!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- EXCITEMENT WAS IN THE AIR as our church family worshipped together, ate together, shared together, and played together last Sunday! Everything we experienced together was bountiful, including the very presence of Christ! We ended up in the outdoors on a picture-perfect day that was God’s special gift to us … out in the corn maze, the pumpkin patch, the leaf piles, the play area, around the fire-pit, etc., etc., ~ drinking in the sunshine, the relaxation, the fellowship and fun! Again, our heartfelt gratitude to the generous heart who provided the funds to make this a reality! What an incredible blessing it was to all!
- LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES to our youngest granddaughter, Lindsay, who is celebrating her 10th birthday on Sunday, October 3rd! We hope you know how much we love you ~ and that Jesus loves you even more!
- BELATED BIRTHDAY WISHES go out to Matthias, who celebrated his birthday recently on September 25th! May God bless you in new, fresh ways!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3RD: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE / COMMUNION SERVICE centering on all Christ has done for us on Calvary – and every day since that priceless sacrifice! Come and participate in this meaningful time at the altar as Pastor Doug leads us to remember and celebrate the forgiveness that is ours through the shed blood of Jesus! NEXT SUNDAY: Message - “He Calms My Storms” – the 8th fingerprint of God! - THIS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6TH: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – “LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s home! We will be continuing part 2 of the overview of the books of the Bible. Be sure to bring your Bibles and notebooks. New notebooks will be provided if you were not with us last week.
- SPECIAL FELLOWSHIP EVENTS are being planned for the next several months! Be looking for news of a monthly gathering that will be something to look forward to – each one will be something different!
- OCTOBER 22/23: WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul! This week we registered 11 women who will be attending. If you need further details, please call Tina or Debbie.
- OCTOBER 22nd: ALL ABOUT GUYS STEAK-FRY at Pastor D’s house; more details to come!
- RE: FUEL YOUTH ACTIVITY is being planned for a laser tag outing to Mankato later this month!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- PRAISE BE TO GOD FOR HIS WONDROUS WORKS!! God’s miracles have been evident amongst our church family this week; how grateful we are! And how we thank God for our faithful supporters from out-of-state who stand with us prayerfully & financially! Let’s remember to pray for LaFawn, Cherry, Tina, Mary’s dad, Julia, Roger, Kay, and those who are dealing with the after-flood effects. May we trust God with child-like faith!

- REMEMBER, “We can put our minds at ease because God’s mind is on us.” ~ unknown


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

WHAT POWER DOES ONE LITTLE DROP HAVE? Well, if we’re talking “raindrops”, a single drop doesn’t have a lot of power, but put together lots of them … like millions … and you have a flood! What seems so extremely small and innocent, can come en masse … and it is no longer powerless! The tiny trickles compound into ever-widening streams and rivers, and what was once pretty and winding becomes a churning, propelling force of overflowing water called a flood. That’s exactly what happened in our town this week. The “flood of 2010” made both national news and history – and brought to all who experienced it a real respect for the power of “many little drops”! When the rain comes in pouring sheets almost non-stop for twenty-four hours or so, something is going to happen. Boundaries are going to disappear. Roads are going to be covered. Train tracks will be swallowed up. Fields will be submerged. Homes will be deluged with water coming in. Vehicles will be stranded trying to pass through. New routes will have to be found. Life suddenly changes. Appointments and work schedules get changed or canceled. Normal routines are thrown out the door. Suddenly the disaster takes precedence over everything else. People come out of … everywhere. Helping, assisting, rescuing. Making food and delivering meals to volunteers and rescue personnel. Calling to check and see if you’re alright – and if your home and possessions are still intact. Calling just to see how you are doing. One thing you know, you will never forget. You will never forget the sound of the drenching rains covering the earth. You will never forget the sight of the expanding waters. You will never forget the silence of the rain stopping - and over time, the welcome sight of the waters shrinking back. But the flood leaves its marks. The debris of soil and branches and crops washed away … the watermarks on houses and cars and anything else standing in the way … the loss of income and the expense of restoration. A flood has an insatiable appetite … it devours everything and anything in its path. Only if you are on higher ground are you safe from its clutches. I was reminded of how much like sin a flood is. It begins tiny, with no intentions of harm or hurt. But sin multiplies and expands and picks up the pace. It begins rolling and speeding out of control until it seems there is no way to stop what has gotten so big. We wonder how that happens. But it just takes one “little sin”. And because sin compounds when one doubles into another, and then doubles again … soon it seems as if sin is choking the very good out of us. The boundaries get crossed. Our conscience gets smothered. Our straight path gets diverted. Our common sense doesn’t make sense anymore. Our heart gets hardened in the process. Our compassion for others gets derailed. We hope for a way out, but that too, seems to have been washed away by the flood of sin. We cannot seem to forget the things that we ran after – they now disgust us. Yet, we cannot seem to make them go away. They play loudly in our minds like a stuck phonograph record. We’re addicted and sickened. We’re kidnapped and trapped. We try to break loose, but the disarray and debris has left such deep and muddied marks on our souls that we wish to God we could forget. Oh, what an insatiable appetite sin has … it devours life after life after life. And only when we cry out to God to pull us up to higher ground, are we safe from its clutches. Rescued! And then, I was thinking about one more thing! There IS one drop that is powerful beyond words. Do you know what it is? ONE DROP OF JESUS’ BLOOD is all it takes to cancel out the most hideous sin ever committed! ONE DROP is all it takes to cancel out cancer diagnosed! ONE DROP is all it takes to calm a frightened and distraught mind! ONE DROP is all it takes to bring back a wayward child who is breaking your heart! ONE DROP is all it takes to bring the hope back into your heart! ONE DROP is all it takes to bring back the dream that you thought had died long ago. Because of Jesus’ blood, we are blessed and blessed, indeed! Because of Jesus’ blood, our boundaries are enlarged! Because of Jesus’ blood, His hand is upon us! Because of Jesus’ blood, He can keep us from causing evil or harm. ONE DROP OF JESUS’ BLOOD is all it takes to send Satan scurrying away! ONE DROP is all it takes to bring victory and peace! So as this week ends here in our town, the only flood I wish to see in the future … is the flood of the very presence of Christ! May it bring a revival that rushes through our church and our town, transforming everything in its path. May we be marked with the glory of God and radiate that glory to others around us! May we never be the same … because of ONE DROP that comes rushing in like a flood to rescue us, change us, and send us out on fire for our God!!! Let’s become rescuers for those still waiting for a Lifeboat!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- GOD’S BLESSINGS ABOUND whenever we are together in His House … and that is exactly what happened this past Sunday! We are so excited about the $10.00 gift that was sent to Elevation North by one of Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s friends in northern Minnesota! She called it a “tiny gift” ~ but God laid it on our heart to take it and give it to someone for a week to see how they could multiply this precious seed, and then bring the $10.00 back – plus the increase! We will be doing this for several weeks, and who knows just how far this $10.00 bill will expand to help further the ministry of Elevation North! The very first week, someone’s idea increased the $10.00 by another $20.00! Thank you, Cindy, for planting a seed that God is growing into something much larger – for His glory!
- SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES to our son, Dana, who is celebrating his birthday on September 25th! May your life be blessed in amazing ways, son! We love you and thank God for you every day!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE with Pastor Doug preaching a powerful message on the seventh fingerprint of God: “Directing My Paths”. Following worship, the entire church family will enjoy fellowship and great food – with meat and beverages being provided. Bring one of your food specialties to share … and then! Yes, then we will be heading to Oakview Nursery for the 1:00 p.m. tour including the pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayride, pumpkin painting, leaf piles, and much more! Someone has graciously provided a gift of money to pay for all the children & youth … and all adults will get the group rate of $6 each! What a great time this will be ~ THANKS to someone with a loving, giving, generous heart! MAY GOD BLESS YOU!!
- THIS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – “LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS” STUDY at the home of Pastor Doug and Debbie! Come ready to participate & take notes; the notebooks are provided for you!
- THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH: WOMEN OF FAITH tickets need to be committed to and paid for in preparation for the OCT 22-23 Conference! See Tina or Debbie to turn in the $89 for both days and two lunches!
- GUYS, let Pastor Doug know how many can come to the STEAK-FRY on OCTOBER 22nd!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- DON’T DOUBT ~ TRUST GOD! Trust Him to do His very best for you this week! Let’s uphold Tina, LaFawn, Cherry, Julia, Mary’s dad and others for divine healing! Let’s claim provision for all things, that Christ might be exalted! May our faith continue to be increased as we ask God for a building for Elevation North to call home!

- REMEMBER, “What God invites you to do will always be greater than the resources you start with.” ~ Bruce Wilkinson


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

THERE’S STILL MORE! Well, in God’s economy, that is! And how do I ever forget that? Shame on me! I know, I could blame it on changing circumstances – that makes me forget. But I will shoulder the blame, because I know it’s when I gaze too long on those looming challenges galloping towards me, I take my eyes off Jesus for a few moments too long. I should have only glanced at the circumstances and fully GAZED on Jesus! So, after a few more hours than I wanted to battle the initial fear and confusion, I finally get my sights set straight, and I begin to see clearly again. Everything will be alright. All I have to do is open the pages of the letters God has written to me to remind me of that! Turning to Luke chapter 9, I find an incredible story of how God works – and it’s not always how we think He’s going to work! Many of us know the story of how Jesus fed the five thousand with only five loaves of bread and two fish … but do we really know it? I think there’s something tucked in there that we have passed over. Jesus had taken the disciples and gone to an out-of-the-way place called Bethsaida ~ probably for some quiet, reflective time in a peaceful place. But, word got out … and here came the throngs of people. Rather than getting upset, Jesus welcomed them and enthusiastically talked with them about the Kingdom of God and then he even healed those who were sick and needed His touch. The hours passed by without anyone even noticing the time. Suddenly, the disciples became concerned that the people would need time to get to nearby villages for food and places to stay for the night, as there was nothing available in the remote area they were at. When they suggested to Jesus that He dismiss them, do you know what Jesus did? He told them, “YOU give them something to eat.” (Emphasis, mine.) I can just see them saying, “Who? Us? With what?” What they DID tell Jesus was that all they had was only five loaves and two fish, and their only other option was to hurry and go someplace close and buy enough food for that large crowd, which would have cost much more than any of them probably had. Or, more than likely, all of them together! See, they were thinking THEY had to be the answer. THEY had to find and/or fund the solution. They forgot to look to Jesus and ask what HE could do! Then Jesus took control of the need and gave a directive: have the people sit down in groups of fifty people. The disciples got right on that and soon the people were seated. Could any of them have known that a miracle was in store for them? And what were the disciples thinking about now? Probably something like, “Alright, Jesus, the ball is in Your court now; what are You going to do for all these hungry people?” At least they got their focus back on Jesus and what HE could do. They all sat back and watched as Jesus now did what He does best: He took what was there, looked up to His Father in heaven, thanked Him, and then took action. The action was breaking the bread and fish and passing some to each of the disciples to feed the people with. The scripture doesn’t say that Jesus passed the food to the people. He gave it to the disciples to pass out. Next, the scripture says that the people “all ate and were satisfied” and that there were twelve baskets full of food left over after everyone had eaten. But what happened between when Jesus gave the baskets to the disciples and when they were feeding the thousands of people? All of us know that those twelve baskets would soon be empty, and then what? What level of faith did the disciples have when they saw that first basket about to go empty with just one piece left for the next person? What would they have to offer the person after that? But then, the basket was refilled again, and again. Or perhaps they never saw it go empty or get to that last piece. Each time, THERE WAS STILL MORE! However the miracle happened, I am sure the faith of those disciples increased dramatically as they saw first-hand what Jesus did to feed the people who came to listen to Him. Wow, Lord! I do get it! Your miracles are just as dramatic today as they were then! You gave us one a few days ago through the unexpected gifts from our church family ~ and again today from our own family! You proved once again to us – that there is still more. You will never fail us … You never have … and You never will! Keep our hearts attuned to the fact that we should never rely on what WE can do, but always on what YOU can do – and want to do! We want to be modern-day disciples that carry baskets of hope and salvation, and yes, even food … to the needy world around us. Baskets that never run empty!! Baskets that WILL STILL HAVE MORE!!! Always!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- THERE ARE NO WORDS ADEQUATE ENOUGH with which to express our loving appreciation and thanks to our church family for the “surprise early Pastor’s Appreciation” that was given to us on Sunday! The cake was an incredible replica of our natural backyard area, complete with an archway, wind-chimes, real fresh flowers, birdhouses, birds and butterflies, even a ladybug, and green coconut grass! How original … and our special thanks to Hazel and Carianne for their creative decorating! And to our entire church family for the inspirational card and love gifts tucked inside … you blessed us more than we can say! The timing was perfect! Only God could have arranged it all that way; thank you for allowing Him to use you to bless us so profoundly! We love each of you!

- SPECIAL, LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES to our granddaughter, Whitney, on her 19th birthday on September 17th! Have a blessed, unforgettable, joy-filled day with God’s best, and know that we love you so much!

- AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES go out to James on the 22nd of this month … may God bless you richly!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE / 11:15 A.M. - SUNDAY SCHOOL
Come prepared for a life-changing message focusing on the sixth fingerprint of God: “Changing our Hearts”! Invite someone to come with you to church!
- MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH: 6:30-8:00 P.M. – RE: FUEL/YOUTH with Pastor D at the house!
- NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH”: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE / 11:15 A.M. - SUNDAY SCHOOL
Pastor Doug will be preaching on the seventh fingerprint of God: “Directing My Paths”. At noon, we will be sharing a great time of fellowship with a POTLUCK MEAL, with all the meat & beverages & table service provided – just bring a dish of food to share! Then … fun and games and surprises to follow! Bring some friends along for the day!
- WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29th: 7:00-8:00 P.M. – BIBLE STUDY … “Learn the Bible in 24 hours” by Dr. Chuck Missler (a great overview of the Bible – in 24 sessions for us), being taught by Pastor Doug at their home. All adults are encouraged to attend, and notebooks will be provided for everyone!
- THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH: WOMEN OF FAITH SIGN-UP LIST w/commitment to a ticket and partial payment for the OCT 22-23 Conference, “Over the Top” at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul … and MEN AT HOME SIGN-UP LIST w/commitment to attending the Steak-Fry at Pastor D’s house on Friday, OCT 22nd.

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS AT WORK! This week as a church family, let’s ask God FOR STILL MORE of His blessings, His healing, His wisdom, His peace, His provision – for us, for our young people back at school, for our missionaries & evangelists, the leaders of our nation & around the world, & for a place for our church to call home!

- REMEMBER, “It’s only what you believe will happen and therefore do next that will release God’s power for you and bring about a life change.” ~ Bruce Wilkinson


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie