WHAT DO YOU HAVE SLEEPING INSIDE OF YOU?! No, we don’t mean germs just waiting to burst into a full-blown cold or some virus that puts you in bed for twenty-four hours. We’re talking about a sleeping giant! Right now with all that is going on in our world, so many people are feeling helpless and insignificant. Wishing they could do something to make things better – in their own lives, as well as to help others. But … where does one start? How does one individual effect change for a nation … or just in their own community? Or even in their own lives and personal situations? Mostly it seems impossible. People have this notion that their only option is to just ride it out and hang on for dear life! And whatever happens ~ happens! But is that how we are supposed to live our lives? Is that what God planned for our lives? No … a resounding NO!!! We believe that God had – and still has an original purpose for our lives: LIVING IN GOD’S KINGDOM ON EARTH! WHAT do we mean by THAT, and HOW is that possible? Well, the Bible says in Matthew 6:33 … “But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.” (NIV) What “things” were being spoken of? In the verses preceding, all the things we are so concerned about on a daily basis are mentioned: food, health, clothing – necessities. And while we are worrying about what we will have to eat or drink or wear, scripture is telling us that if we will seek GOD’S Kingdom FIRST and seek HIS righteousness – THEN ALL THESE THINGS will be provided for us, additionally. So, there’s an order here to how this works! First … and … then! The Message Bible puts it this way in the same verse: “Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.” It can’t get much clearer than that! Somehow down through the generations, we’ve gotten it all backwards. We worry about making a living and paying bills and our lives become “all about things.” Whatever focus or time or energy or money that we have leftover, IF any, we might give a little of it to God. But that isn’t living in God’s Kingdom on this earth. It isn’t awakening the sleeping giant within us … which is what will happen to us and God’s Church if we get our priorities straight! And THAT is what God longs to see happen in His people so that our individual lives, and ultimately, our world CAN be effected for His glory! If any of this rings a bell with you … you just might want to join us at Elevation North for our new adult Sunday School class called ‘Kingdom Connections”! Concepts and ideas and research for the study are taken from Myles Munroe’s book, “Applying the Kingdom” (subtitle: “Rediscovering the Priority of God for Mankind”). And of course, as always, everything is fully backed by God’s Word, or it will not be taught! Come and learn with us how to awaken that giant that is sleeping quietly within you – bring it to life – and see what God will do! Let’s travel on this journey together; we can be co-learners and co-encouragers as we “reclaim God’s original purpose for our lives” (in Myles Munroe’s words)!
IN A NUTSHELL . . .
A SPECIAL WELCOME to Harold, Darius, Keonne, Rick and Laurie who worshipped with us for the first time this past Sunday! How you blessed us with your presence, and we pray that you were touched and blessed by God, as well! We look forward to seeing you again soon!
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES are off to a great start … thanks to our awesome teachers, great Bible lessons that can be applied practically, and all the supplies we need – (special thanks to Laura and Hazel and Julia)! God bless each of you for sharing your love for the Lord and for others, your time, and resources!
LOOKING AHEAD . . .
THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH:
10:00 a.m. / WORSHIP & PRAISE 11:15 a.m. / SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES for all ages
Plan to come to God’s House for this uplifting time that glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ … brings truth from God’s Word to our open hearts … gives opportunity for us to give back to God ~ through our worship and praise and gifts … offers learning experiences in small groups … provides desired fellowship with others who know and love the Lord … and introduces Jesus to any who may not know Him personally! You are encouraged to bring your Bibles so that you can get the most of out God’s Word each week!
JR/SR HI YOUTH: RE: FUEL … that’s what you’ll get to do as you come and meet with your friends at the home of Pastor Doug and Debbie. You’ll get refueled through scripture lessons, snacks, and social fun! Just a reminder of our school year time change: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Don’t miss out ~ see you there! Challenge: each of you invite two friends this week!
WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE is being held this year on Friday/Saturday, October 16-17th in St. Paul at the Xcel Energy Center. The theme is “A GRAND NEW DAY” – and will be a two-day event packed full of God-anointed speakers and music and drama, and more! The tickets are $89/individual, or $79 each for a group of ten or more. Check the link on our church blog for full details, and register with Debbie or Tina as soon as possible, along with your payment. Ladies, what a perfect opportunity to be a part of a spiritual oasis that will refresh and renew your heart and soul!
PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .
God is definitely at work in our midst!!! Julia’s brother, Jim, sends his special thanks for all the prayers on his behalf; and miraculously, the entire cost of $450,000 for the liver transplant in Denver, CO will be covered and provided for! Keep upholding him and the upcoming procedure in your daily prayers! We join Clint and Kristina in asking God for the right buyer for their home at the full price of the value ~ He IS able! Let’s stand with our military personnel in prayer – letting them know that we haven’t forgotten them and what they’ve done and continue to do to preserve our nation’s freedom! May we lift each other up, for God’s healing: in bodies, in relationships; for provision: spiritually, physically, financially, miraculously; for opportunities: to serve God, each other, and those who come across our path!
THIS WEEK – Remember … “Have FUN this week, being God’s child! God WANTS you to have fun, to rest, to relax – in the midst of being engaged in His Kingdom purposes and His Kingdom work! Having fun at being who you are in Christ will sharpen your focus and enhance your fruitfulness & effectiveness!” (Quote by – just me!)
Serving Christ Joyfully . . .
Pastor Doug and Debbie
