Elevation North Has News for You!

TODAY WE JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT GOD LOVES YOU SO-O-O-O MUCH!!! We know that many of you, like us, have encountered … or are presently encountering challenges that seem so huge that you’re not sure what to do or where to turn. Of course, as believers – as God’s kids! – while we may not always know just what to do next, we do know that we can turn to the Lord God Almighty for our answers and our solutions. But it’s what goes on in our hearts and minds during that waiting period that often takes our breath away, knocks the fight out of us, and blinds us from seeing God at work in the bigger picture of our circumstances. Today we just want to remind you of how very much God loves YOU … right at this moment … right in the middle of that seemingly insurmountable struggle. And WE care, too! That’s why we want to pass on this “love letter” from God’s heart to yours today. There’s enough sadness and fear, and lack and sickness, and bad, scary news going around to last our entire life-times … so what we really need to take a hold of … is God’s precious, powerful love for US!!! Let’s see if we can, in our limited human expression, paint just a portion of how wide and deep and high God’s love is – for each of us! First of all, if we ever had any question about God’s love for us, we can dismiss those doubts, because Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” So if He loved us that much when we weren’t even His children and we were breaking His laws and rejecting Him … why would we ever need to doubt His love NOW that we ARE His very own? The very word “demonstrate” means that God proved His love, showed plainly His love. That doesn’t sound like a cheap love, especially since it cost God the very life of His Son, Jesus. It seems like a lavish love. “Lavish” means extravagant … to give abundantly. In His love, He wants us to know who we are, and what is ours. James 1:17 tells us that “every good and perfect gift is from Above.” Sometimes we mistake the gifts He gives us for His love. While all of His blessings and favor are so incredible, they are only an expression of His love. His love is greater than any of His gifts, and because of His love, He longs for us to share in that intimate love relationship with Him. More than receiving His answers, His healing, His guidance, His mercy, His provision, His grace, His peace, His protection, His power … He wants us to receive His everlasting love, His unconditional love, His jealous love. He wants us to experience and live in that kind of love that carries us through a multitude of decisions and discouragement. He longs for us to realize such a love as His that continues on and on without end, that is unconditional. A love like God’s needs nothing that we can give Him or offer Him, but a love like God’s desires our love and fellowship because we are His! A love like God’s infuses our very being with His presence. A love like that makes us ever aware that He is with us, in us, around us, going before us, and guarding us from the rear. A love like God’s spills out, overflows, pursues us, runs to us, and fills us!
We love the eighth chapter of the book of Romans, where we are told “that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Where we are told, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” And where we are reminded that, “in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” So today, know that you are undeniably, irrefutably, fully loved by the God of the Universe!!! Rest and rejoice in that! Be renewed … and respond in that indescribable love!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Mellisa and Aiden who joined us in worship for the first time on Sunday … we loved having you in our midst and we look forward to seeing you again! May God’s blessing be yours!
- OUR SPECIAL THANKS to Jimmy, who provided us with his homegrown, natural grape juice for Communion this past Sunday! And to Laura, Isaac, Merv, Kathy, & Chris, who helped with our KIDZ BLAST in the afternoon as we packed in lots of fun adventure for our younger children and little ones! We had a GREAT time!!!
- MAY GOD BLESS each of you for your continued support of God’s work at Elevation North, including our faithful pastoral partner supporters from out-of-state! Your giving is paying huge dividends in God’s Kingdom! And we thank you from the bottom of our hearts! May God’s favor be yours, is our prayer!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11th:
- 10:00 a.m. – WORSHIP & PRAISE – come and experience God’s love ~ and ours!
- 11:15 a.m. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES – to help all of us grow in our knowledge of God’s Word!
- TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13th – 6:30-8:00 p.m. – JR/SR HI YOUTH: RE: FUEL … plan on an action-packed evening as we turn our appetites to God’s Word … as we put together several hundred packets for our all-out evangelism blitz coming up … as we report on our YOUTH PIZZA FUNDRAISER … and enjoy treats!
- AND SPEAKING ABOUT THE YOUTH FUNDRAISER … our youth are selling Kwik Trip pizzas to help with the costs of a youth trip event to the Cities, and they will be sharing 10% of their monies to help out with the expenses of our Sunday School curriculum! Let’s help them out!
- JUST AROUND THE CORNER! We are so excited about the Women of Faith Conference, “A GRAND NEW DAY” in St. Paul at the Xcel Energy Center on October 16-17! It promises to be a blessed weekend for all who attend; check out the link on our church blog for everything you’d like to know about the 2-day event!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- What a joy it is to serve a God who hears and answers our prayers, and who is actively involved in our daily lives! We are praying for: a liver transplant, the sale of a house, possible cancer diagnosis, family relationships, upcoming surgery, evangelism outreach, financial provision, jobs, our evangelists and our missionaries, our nation’s leaders and our military personnel, etc., etc. Remember “nothing is too hard for God!” (Jeremiah 32:17b) He is so worthy of our praise! LET’S EXALT AND GLORIFY OUR GOD!
- THIS WEEK – Remember, “We can be assured of this: God, who knows all and sees all, will set all things straight in the end. Even better, He will dry every tear.” (Richard J. Foster) And don’t forget . . . “If you experience God’s love at your lowest, you’ll know it has nothing to do with your condition – and everything to do with God’s amazing grace! (Unknown)


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

DO YOU EVER GET TIRED? DO YOU EVER GET HUNGRY? Why on earth would we ask THESE questions? Of course, we ALL get tired at times … and we ALL get hungry probably more often than we care to admit! At the height of intense, fatiguing work – the thought of being able to finally fall into our comfortable bed at night becomes ever more sweet; and just walk down the street past a restaurant or a bakery, and the tantalizing aromas wafting in the air make our tummies growl and our mouths water!!! We can be SO tired … and SO hungry ~ and these are natural feelings. After all, God made our bodies to require rest and food ! We probably should listen to their basic needs more than we do – and give them adequate rest and proper foods! Just this morning, on my day off (that’s never really a day off!), my sweet husband encouraged me to stay in bed for a bit of extra sleep after he left the house. I resisted, and he insisted! The lingering thought of some rare, unexpected moments in my bed convinced me to agree with his idea … and I laid back on my pillow! When I awakened some ninety minutes later, my first thought was what a precious gift my husband had given me – and how much my body had needed that solid rest on a chilly, rainy, overcast morning! Before I jumped into my day’s long list of work, I opened my Bible because I love to hear what God has to say to me from His Word. Reading in the book of Amos, I saw what a hard stance God took against His nation, Israel, when they went off in other directions and no longer pursued Him. Talking to them, He said, “You know, don’t you, that I’m the One who emptied your pantries and cleaned out your cupboards, Who left you hungry and standing in bread lines? But you never got hungry for me. You continued to ignore me. God’s Decree.” Then He goes on to tell them that He’s the One who stopped the rains, and that though the people would stagger from village to village, crazed for water, their thirst never being quenched, He says, “but you never got thirsty for Me. You ignored Me. God’s Decree.” (chapter 4:6-8, The Message Bible) I couldn’t help but pray, “O Lord, help me to always be hungry for You … to be thirsty for You! Help me to not ignore You, but to listen and follow and pursue you without fail! Help me to want more and more and more of You so that I will always have “all I need and more” to spill out onto others the very fragrance and essence of Christ! I’m reminded of a song we used to sing that should be our song still today: “Of things I’ve had my fill, for You I hunger still; Lord, fill me up; Lord, hear my cry, for more of You!” Part of the Beatitudes in Matthew even allude to this in Matthew 5:6 – “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they will be filled.” That’s a promise with a blessing … IF we hunger and thirst after God-priorities! When things in life get out of alignment, often it’s because we are tired and badly in need of physical rest. In answer to the opening question of these “ponderings”, let’s turn to Matthew, chapter 11, where Jesus is asking some questions of His own: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Did you catch the pattern He is setting out for us? Come … get away … rest … walk … work … watch … learn … keep company … live! Add two words to each of these single words … come WITH ME …rest WITH ME … walk WITH ME … live WITH ME, etc., etc. When we actively choose to do these things daily ~ we WILL find the rest and nourishment that we need! Let’s take a lesson from the nation of Israel and not ignore God … but pursue Him! Every day!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

WE WANT TO WELCOME Liz and Aleana and Caida who blessed us with their presence this past Sunday as we worshipped together, and also to Don, who joined us for Sunday School! What an encouragement you were to us, and our heart’s desire is that each of you were blessed and touched by God’s Spirit!
LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES to our granddaughter, Lindsay, in East Grand Forks, who will be 9 on October 3rd! We love you, Lindsay!
GOD IS AT WORK! We continue to marvel at God’s work in our midst as He is changing lives and meeting needs and drawing us closer to Him! He is so deserving of ALL the praise!

LOOKING AHEAD . . .

THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4th:
10:00 a.m. – WORSHIP & PRAISE – come just as you are - and leave, knowing you’ve been with Jesus!
11:15 a.m. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES – exciting lessons for all ages!
This Sunday we will celebrate Communion; remembering God’s extreme love gift to us, His very own Son, that we might live with Him forever! It’s also a time to ponder our sins and ask for forgiveness and cleansing, that we might live forgiven and free! Come and drink in from God’s Word as Pastor Doug preaches an anointed message, partake of Communion, and stay for Sunday School for another session of learning and sharing!
12:00 noon – KIDZ BLAST with Pastor Doug and Debbie for Sunday School kids that are pre-junior high age. We will be having lunch at McDonald’s – having a blast at the Serengetti Water Park – and coming back to Pastor’s and Debbie’s home for fun treats! The cost is $10, but if you need help with the expenses, let us know! We want every kid to be able to be a part of this event!
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6th – 6:30-8:00 p.m. - JR/SR HI YOUTH: RE: FUEL … ready for a spiritual boost after school? We’ve been taking advantage of nice weather for outdoor activities, and now as the weather is cooling, we will be spending more time on our devotionals and lessons – and of course, ALWAYS enjoying the snack time!!! Join us at Pastor’s and Debbie’s home for a great time!
NEXT SUNDAY: OCTOBER 11th: Invite some friends for worship and Sunday School! The youth will be kicking off a fundraiser for youth group funds, so your support and encouragement is really appreciated!
JUST A FEW WEEKS AWAY! WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE in St. Paul at the Xcel Energy Center is coming up on October 16-17 … “A GRAND NEW DAY!” For full details, check the link on our church blog! It promises to be an uplifting, life-changing event for all who attend! Be in prayer for the speakers and musicians!

PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

What a great, prayer-answering God we serve! He LOVES hearing our heart’s cries, and He loves doing what He does best: giving us His guidance and peace and answers, according to His will and for His glory! For those going through the tough times, the struggles are real, whether it is physical, emotional, financial, or spiritual. Let’s remember to pray for each other’s needs as we lean on God for provision and intervention and victory in all these matters! May God use us to minister to family and friends and others in our community – and around our nation and world, wherever He gives us open doors!

THIS WEEK – 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!

DOES THE “CLEANING BUG” ever bite you? Well, sometimes for us with our management and caretaker positions at the apartment complexes we work at during the week – it feels like we are always cleaning somewhere … anywhere … everywhere … but at home! Today was my “day off” from my retail job and we didn’t have to be at the apartment complexes until early afternoon, so – o – o my hubby and I decided to treat ourselves to some fall housecleaning at home! What a concept!!! What we do for everyone else – we finally got to do for ourselves! It was actually fun to clean and reorganize and rearrange drawers and cabinets and shelves for part of the forenoon, until it was time to head to the apartments and then after that, an enjoyable chat with one of our church teens at a coffee place! And now, we get to “chat” with you “via our church blog” and share what’s on our hearts today! As we were cleaning, I couldn’t help but wonder if God gets as much enjoyment at “doing some fall housecleaning” in our lives as we did just cleaning in our home! I’m glad He doesn’t let the dust get too thick on our conscience … or the attitudes of our hearts too skewed and off-track … or our vision too clouded … before He gets out His dust-cloth – His de-greaser – and His glass-cleaner! I love it when things in our home are neat and in place, when things are sparkly clean and fresh, and when long lists of things awaiting our attention get shortened up a bit! And I’m sure God loves it when we respond to His cleaning methods. His purging – throwing things out that are not pleasing to Him. His pruning – carving away all the useless, fruitless parts of our lives. His refining – polishing us up so we’ll be better able to reflect His likeness in our world. I wonder if He stands back and gazes at His cleaning work, knowing that what He has accomplished has been a good thing. As He looks, He sees us through His view of eternal perspective. He sees us from before birth – to this moment in our life’s journey on earth. He sees into our future when someday when we will breathe our last breath – and He sees us in eternity where those who know Him personally will be sharing our “forever lives” with Him! That’s why He keeps those cleaning supplies handy; wanting to prepare us for what’s to come, so that we will be ready for His appearing. In Ephesians chapter 5, the apostle Paul writes about wives and husbands and likens the marriage relationship to Christ and the church. In the last verses of the chapter, he instructs the wives and husbands to love each other … “just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the Word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.” So you see, there is good reason for the housecleaning in our lives. Just as we prepare our homes for guests, so Christ instructs us to prepare ourselves as His church, His bride – for that long-awaited moment when He, our Bridegroom, comes for us! There is only one way that we can ever be as radiant and as holy as He desires us to be. And that is because He gave Himself for us, gave His very life – His life’s blood for us, so that we will be able to present ourselves washed and cleansed when He appears! Not always do we jump at the necessity of cleaning house, but hopefully we will welcome the times when God comes with His cloths and cleansers. Think about how awesome your home looks right after you’ve finished cleaning it. Then think of how you look to the world around you after God has finished His cleaning process in you! It will always be worth any “scrubbing” that has to take place! So let’s run TO the cleansing and purifying ~ and not away from it!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WE WANT TO WELCOME Lyndel and Mo, along with Natalie and Brandon, who worshipped with us this past Sunday at Elevation North! What a joy it was to have all of you, and we look forward to having you join us in God’s House again soon!
- HOW EXCITING it was to see our Sunday School classes filled to overflowing … and we thank God for added resources – including a wonderful supply of nursery and toddler toys for our little ones donated to us by Laura!
God bless you, Laura, for meeting a very specific need!
- BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES to James who celebrated his special day on Tuesday, the 22nd! AND SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES to our son, Dana, (in Michigan) on September 25th! We love you, son!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH:
- 10:00 a.m. – WORSHIP & PRAISE – come with an expectancy of God’s presence and power!
- 11:15 a.m. – SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES – learning experiences for all ages!
- You will discover a blend of preaching and teaching as this week Pastor Doug begins a series of messages on “The Day of the Lord” from the book of Haggai. Don’t miss what he has to share from God’s Word! Be an active participant in the worship and singing and prayer-time … as well as opening your arms and hearts to each other, and especially our first-time visitors and newcomers! Plan to stay after worship and take part in a class – just for you!
- TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH - JR/SR HI YOUTH: RE: FUEL … need some extra spiritual energy? Ready for some awesome fun and hanging out with other Christian teens along with Pastor D and Debbie? Weather permitting, we will head to the park for a hike, and then return to Pastor’s back-yard for some s’mores around the fire-pit! Invite several friends!
- NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4TH: WORSHIP & COMMUNION, SUNDAY SCHOOL, and an after-church “kidz event” with lunch at McDonald’s, a trip to the Serengetti Water Park, and treats back at Pastor’s and Debbie’s home after – for 4 year olds through 5th graders. We will have plenty of chaperones to help out!
- COMING SOON: WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE is just around the corner on Friday/Saturday, October 16-17th at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. You’ll love the awesome ministry centered around the theme “A GRAND NEW DAY” – for two energy packed days of incredible speakers and music and drama and more! We’ve obtained a special price of $79 without the minimum number for a full group, so please call Debbie or Tina right away with your reservation and payment, so that we can all sit together in a group! Go to the Women of Faith link on our church blog for full details and schedules. Pray about joining us; it will be a life-changing experience you will never forget!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- How we love being in the middle of what God is doing! His faithfulness and His miracles are to be praised! This week we ask you to continue to pray for Jim and his upcoming liver transplant in Denver; for the perfect buyer for the Bucholz home; for God to open doors for added ministries; for answers to several unspoken requests; for pastors around the world, for our nation’s leaders and military personnel; and for God to do His cleaning in each of our hearts and lives – that we might be more effective than ever before!
- THIS WEEK – Remember, “The light of God surrounds you; The love of God enfolds you; The presence of God protects you; and God is always with you!” (Quote – unknown)


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

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

Elevation North Has News for You!

WHAT ARE YOU PURSUING TODAY? As I was driving to work the other morning, continuing to pray for family and friends, thoughts of so many responsibilities and deadlines and work schedules kept trying to invade my talking with the Lord. Suddenly, my mind took a turn as I heard God speaking to my heart. He brought to me an awareness of just how hard we work – just to survive in these times. How dedicated we are to getting everything done on time and in the best way possible at each job that we go to. And of course, we love the ministry God has given us at Elevation North, and many times we are finishing up preparations late on Saturday night – even going into the middle of the night. And we always say, “Lord, we are doing this because we love You … because we love Your people … and because we love doing Your work! We count it a precious privilege – it’s not work, it’s not a job, it’s a high calling! So, help us, Lord ~ anoint us by Your Spirit!” But, God seemed to be nudging me strongly to really see that we work SO hard for earthly things that will not last. Sure, many of these things are necessary: a home, a vehicle to drive, food to eat, clothes to wear, and a long ongoing list of so many expenses. But you have to admit, all of us work hard to pay for them. And none of that will last – only what has eternal value will last! And as I thought about all of this, God began putting in my heart a question: “What would happen if you worked that hard for Me? If you put that much time and effort into our relationship? Or the ministry I have called you to? Or helping those in need? Or purposely seeking ways to make an eternal difference in the lives of people around you?” All I could say was, “Wow, Lord!” Because I got it! It made so much sense! We put so much effort and time and money into living here – in our temporary lifetime in our temporary home going to our temporary jobs – none of which will last forever. And God gets so little of us in comparison. Sure, we love Him, with all our hearts, we say. But does our devotion and dedication and service to Him match up with our words? Suddenly, our deep desire to return to full-time ministry washed over me in huge waves, and I just said, “God, we’re doing all we can – and I just don’t know how to make it happen, but I know YOU do! And we WILL pursue You and Your work with the same passion and devotion and hard work that we give to our jobs, because we know that what we do for You WILL last forever! So, show us, Lord!” And of course, right now we’re still going to our jobs and giving it our all, and blended in with that, while God has us in this season of our lives until the full-time ministry season returns … we WILL be about our Father’s business, because ALL of us can be ministers for Him in the marketplace – touching lives with the love and compassion and gospel of Christ, bringing about eternal changes that WILL last forever! We challenge you to pursue Christ and His Kingdom work, along with us, with the same energy and focus and commitment that cause you to excel at your earthly work, so that He might be glorified and His work in us and through us might be accomplished in these crucial days. Christ is coming soon; let’s make each day count for Him!!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- PARTAKING OF COMMUNION this past Sunday was a powerful reminder of all Christ did for us on the cross; and searching our hearts, asking forgiveness, knowing we are cleansed – is an important part of remembering!
- BIRTHDAYS, BIRTHDAYS GALORE in September … special wishes to Cierra, whose birthday is this Sunday, the 13th … and belatedly to Destiny, whose birthday was last Sunday, the 6th, also to Hope (Sept. 1st), Michael, Jr. (Sept. 3rd), and Michael, Sr. (Sept. 5th)! May God bless each of you with His very best! If we missed your date this week, please let us know!
- FOR EACH OF YOU who support Elevation North with your weekly tithes and offerings, we pray God’s richest blessings on you, as you give faithfully to God’s work! Continue planting those seeds and see what He will do! We add and subtract … HE MULTIPLIES!!!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH, is GRANDPARENT’S DAY! We invite YOU to join us as we honor our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with our worship and adoration, as well as honoring our grandparents who are such an awesome influence in the lives of their grandchildren! You won’t want to miss this service where we open our hearts to love and praise and learn and pray and fellowship! Bring your Bibles and continue reading in Malachi in preparation for Pastor Doug’s timely message from chapter 3!
- STARTING THIS SUNDAY will be our Sunday School classes for all ages from toddlers through adults, following our worship time, at 11:15 a.m. - with new materials and resources that promise to be exciting and challenging, drawing us deeper in our walk with God! Be in prayer for our teachers and helpers as they teach God’s Word! Invite some friends!!
- TIME CHANGE for JR/SR HI YOUTH for the school year: 6:30-8:00 p.m. weekly at Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s home! Join us this week on the 15th as we begin our Bible study and come together for a great time as a group, sharing, eating, and continuing on fun adventures! Think of who you can invite … let’s grow our group and introduce our friends to our Jesus! We don’t want them to miss out on the BEST!
- WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE in St. Paul on Friday/Saturday, October 16-17th at the Xcel Energy Center. This year it’s “A GRAND NEW DAY!” event with two full days plus two lunches for $89/individual seat or $79 for a group of ten or more. You will be blessed beyond words and filled to overflowing as you take in these incredible speakers and musicians, all of your favorites – plus special guest, Steven Curtis Chapman! See Debbie or Tina to reserve your spot and turn in your money. Deadline to register and get seats is coming up soon! Plan to attend ~ you’ll never regret it and will never want to miss it again! Friday schedules are from 10:00 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 7 – 10 p.m. / Saturday schedules are 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ~ then back home!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNTIES . . .

- What a privilege to pray for others! We encourage you to be in prayer daily for: Josh and Sarah and Noah who are in Cape Town, South Africa attending and ministering at the University of Nations Conference right now – and additionally for Sarah, who is pregnant!; Julia’s brother in the liver transplant process; our new church families; special unspoken requests; Clint and Kristina’s house to sell and at full value!; all of our students locally and in college; our pastors and government leaders and our president – that God might work victories and miracles in our midst as well as in our nation and around the world! Let’s be on our knees!!!
- THIS WEEK – Remember … “Your Heavenly Father knows your needs. He will always give you all you need from day to day … For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.” (Luke 12:30-32) And, Billy Graham once said, “I’ve read the last page of the Bible. It’s going to turn out all right!”


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

AND … WHAT DO YOU DO? This week I heard someone relate a story about their conversation during a flight. The person seated next to them struck up a conversation and said, “What do you do?” To which the man replied, “I’m a learner.” The other passenger clarified, “No, I mean what do you do for a living?” The man again replied, “I’m a learner.” This went back and forth a few times until the man pursued the opportunity to share that he is above all, a learner of Jesus Christ. More important than the fact that he is also an author and songwriter and speaker, is the fact that he is a learner of Jesus Christ. I was truly moved as I thought about this more and more, realizing that if we are NOT a learner of Jesus Christ, then what do we really have to say or do that is of any importance, or that has any impact, or that has any lasting value? Without knowing something, we cannot share it or teach it. Without knowing someone, we cannot share about them. Without knowing God intimately, we cannot exude the power that comes out of that intimacy. Without learning what it means to sit at the feet of Jesus and stay there – waiting for Him to speak to us … we have nothing fresh and relevant to pass on to others. Without hearing from God what His purpose is for us TODAY … we walk out of our house and into our day, not knowing. Not knowing, means that we’ll most likely miss that purpose, that divine appointment that He had lined up for us TODAY. See how it all works together?! And none of us like to feel like we’ve missed out on something! This week is the perfect time to be pondering all of this as students all over our nation go back to classes for this next school year. You see, it is not just the kids and youth that need to be focusing on learning … it needs to be EVERY BELIEVER who is focusing on learning more about God and His Word … more about our walk with Him … more about His plans for us – daily plans and short-term and long-range plans … more about being engaged in doing what He’s called us to do … and, especially, more about knowing Him better with each passing day! Becoming a devoted learner of Jesus Christ will happen only as we spend time with Him ~ and not just a teensy bit of time – but more time, unhurried time, totally focused time where it is just Him and us! Yes, it takes a sacrifice of time and it takes a commitment to turn our desire into a spiritual habit. But once that happens, the spiritual habit becomes our desire, no matter what the sacrifice! The small investment it costs us will pay us huge rewards in our spiritual lives! Once we’ve tasted, we’ll never want to go back. And remember, nothing ever stays the same. How we learn as a first-grader is not how we learn as an eighth-grader, and how we learn as a freshman in high school changes yet again as we enter learning on a college level. The same applies to our spiritual learning and even to our ministry. Where God has us, and how He has us do it, changes with the season He has us in. What we’ve done for years, may have been how God had us do it then … but now in this season God calls for different places, different ways, different measures. And the underlying secret is to follow in complete obedience. It may not be easy, but if we’re walking WITH God, and not lagging BEHIND Him, then we can walk in bold confidence that we are on the path of learning and ministry that He has called each of us to … and the best part is, HE WILL BE RIGHT BESIDE US! And, we can even “hold hands” if we want … He would LOVE that! Then, we’d never fall behind … we’d stay in step every day!!! So, HAPPY LEARNING to all of God’s students … that’s YOU AND ME!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Pat and Helen and Ethan and Edan who came to worship with us this past Sunday! It was wonderful having you with us, and we pray that you sensed God’s Spirit and were blessed!
- BELATED BIRTHDAY WISHES go out to Brendan and to Merv … and to any others who we do not have the dates for! May God bless you with a great year ahead! Please let us know the dates of your family’s birthdays if you have not already filled out a form!
- THE PASTORAL PRAYER TEAMS are now in effect, as of September 1st, and we value your loving and faithful prayer support. We are looking forward to nurturing this mutual bond as we pray for each other! The Prayer Chain is also available for prayer needs for others – so don’t hesitate to call!
- WE CANNOT THANK ENOUGH, our faithful supporters who have pledged to stand with us in offering extra financial support so that we can continue to grow the ministry of Elevation North! Each of you is so dear to us, and we thank God for your gifts, but more importantly, for you and your prayers! We couldn’t do it without you! May God bless you for sharing and for standing in the gap with us!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH, we look forward to having YOU join us in worship at Clinton Falls Town Hall at 10:00 a.m., continuing on our scriptural journey through the book of Malachi as we learn from God’s Word and apply it to our lives today! Though we are a new church, you will definitely find a family of God who loves the opportunities Elevation North affords to grow in Christ and fellowship in love with each other!
- SUNDAY SCHOOL MATERIALS ARE HERE … and we will be having a short meeting for the teachers following the worship and fellowship time, to hand out the teacher’s books and resource materials. SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES for toddlers through youth will begin this next Sunday, on September 13th; and we are SO excited to add this ministry to our church life! Be in prayer for God’s help - and His anointing on everyone.
- MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH – Enjoy Labor Day with your family – or with your co-workers if you have to work!
- TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH – JR & SR HI YOUTH will begin their fall session of weekly meetings at the home of Pastor and Debbie. Look for a blend of study, fun, and food ~ and invite your friends to join you! The more, the better! We want to experience growth in Christ together – and live it out during the rest of the week!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- How awesome that WE can be a part of what God is doing in people’s lives! This week we can be part of a triple-braided cord that scripture talks about, standing strong with each other as we pray for: Clint in Michigan at his new job; Julia’s brother who is slated to have a liver transplant in Denver, but is still facing some ongoing health challenges as he awaits that procedure; all students returning to school; Josh & Sarah & Noah who are traveling to and attending and ministering at the University of Nations Conference in Cape Town, Africa; Larry & Gloria Lundstrom as they travel & minister; our own church families individually and for Elevation North outreach – that we will be found faithful to our Lord!
- THIS WEEK – Remember … “The best evidence of a resurrected Christ – is a resurrected church!” (Quote by Jesse Duplantis) So this week, let’s live as resurrected learners and doers!!!


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

WHAT ARE WE MAGNIFYING? Deep disappointments come more frequently than we care to acknowledge … but what happens when they do? Do we magnify THEM or do we magnify GOD?! Sometimes it’s a good thing to do a self-evaluation and ask ourselves a few tough questions. Like: do we choose to love God because it’s easy? Do we choose to serve Him because it will never be hard? Do we say we’ll follow Him because there will never be any trials or tests? Do we live in obedience because we will never have questions or setbacks or disappointments? And once we search our hearts and truthfully answer those questions, then we can get to the point of magnifying our newest disappointment – or – MAGNIFYING OUR GOD! Which will it be? Inside, there swirls a turmoil of emotions. Lots of people can honestly say, “You know, we’ve tried; we’ve given it our all … we’re tired, exhausted, and discouraged. What more can God want from us?” Well, fear not – you’re not alone! Any of us could find scores of buddies to share our disappointments with! But what God wants from us – is our trust. He wants us to know that what He calls us to do … He will enable us to do, not by our might – but by His power. He wants us to know that no matter what things look like on the outside, there’s another side that’s viewed from Heaven and He wants us to see it, too! He wants us to hang in there and not give up. The next person we meet could be changed for Eternity – because of us. The next person we share Christ with could become this generation’s Billy Graham – because we cared about their eternal destiny. The next person we reach out to could be in our eyes “the world’s worst sinner”, but could be transformed by God to bring an effective message of hope and life for the millions who are yet lost. The next person we talk to could be the one that comes alongside us to bring some encouragement and hope our way, saying, “Brother, sister … I’ve been called to stand in the gap with you. I’m here to jump on board with you and do whatever it takes to make a difference!” Sometimes we just need to hear that from one person … and we find ourselves being lifted up by that personal love and care and commitment. Other times, it does our heart good to know that someone else is signing on to help advance the cause of Christ! Isn’t is amazing how what seems insurmountable or impossible with just one or two working at something – when a few more put their hearts and hands to the job, it gets done much quicker, and with seemingly less effort! We’re so glad that God teaches us in His Word to stay the course and not be tossed about by our disappointments ~ or we’d be all over the place every single day! We encourage you to go to the New Testament and read the Faith Chapter in Hebrews 11 and take a refresher course in how so many of our spiritual forefathers down through the ages went through their trials and tests – and BY FAITH, came through as over-comers! They finished what they started, because they kept their eyes on Jesus! We love the instruction recorded for us in Hebrews chapter 12 in the first few verses: “Do you see what this means – all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running – and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how He did it. Because He never lost sight of where He was headed – that exhilarating finish in and with God – He could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility He plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!” (The Message Bible) How we love it that we can MAGNIFY OUR GOD and find hope for every disappointment – promises for every need – and answers for every question … if we study how HE did it – how He BEGAN and FINISHED the race! We can do the same ~ with His help! So, onward, dear ones! We’re running with you … to Jesus, and for Jesus!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WHAT A PERFECTLY BEAUTIFUL LORD’S DAY to worship in the park at the pavilion and later to enjoy some wonderful home-cooked food provided by each of our families – and fun on the playground last Sunday! And …
A SPECIAL WELCOME to Destiny, Trinitee, and Zaylee, as well as Kathy’s mom, who all joined us in worship at the park! We pray you sensed God’s love and ours!
- REMEMBER GIVING UP SOME COFFEE, SOFT DRINKS, AND A FEW LUNCHES so we could give a love gift to Samara in her time of need? We passed the cash on to her, and this is what she wrote back to us this week: “Doug, Debbie, and church, Thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers, and money donation. It fills my heart to know that co-workers and people I have never met can care so much about my children and me. With that I was able to get my kids’ school items and tennis shoes. With school right around the corner, I didn’t know what I was going to do. My kids never ask for anything. Thank you for helping me fill their needs. They also send hugs and thanks to each and everyone of you. God bless you all. Samara, Brandon, and Brianna”
- ANNOUNCING – God has provided a new location and promotion with the same company for Clint and he will be leaving for Michigan this coming Sunday after church. His family may be here through Christmas and then they will be moving, too. We thank God for this blessing for them, but we will miss them tremendously! We offer our deep gratitude to you, Clint, for your strong leadership, devoted support, and constant encouragement! Thank you for allowing God to use you so mightily in our midst, and we pray for God’s blessing and favor to rest upon you, your family, and this transition and new opportunity in your lives!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 30TH, we will be back at the Clinton Falls Town Hall for worship at 10:00 a.m. – for a power-packed message from the book of Malachi for the adults and young people, an unforgettable “elevate kidz” lesson, sweet fellowship with each other, priceless time spent in the presence of our Living God raising our voices in harmony and prayer and praise! Plan to come and bring someone new with you!
- CALLING ALL KIDZ . . . Sunday afternoon will FINALLY be our CHILDREN’S SUMMER SPLASH EVENT with Pastor D and Debbie; they will be calling you with the exact time and to see how many friends are coming with you! We’ll all have a GREAT time!
- TUESDAY, SEP. 1ST - JR & SR HI YOUTH will be meeting at the home of Pastor and Debbie, then heading out to do some hiking and taking in a Bible lesson and ending up with treats! Call or text some of your friends!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- First of all, God is SO deserving of our praise for WHO He is and for ALL He is! And because He knows we are a needy people, He loves to hear us call out to Him and bring our burdens to Him. We are claiming miracles for: Melonee/dental surgery; College students/back to classes; Julia’s brother, Jim/in critical condition; Julia/doing much better – PTL!; Destiny/her step-grandmother passed away suddenly; Josh & Sarah Seykora/for financial provision for travels to their conference in Africa coming up in the next week (our church is sending a love gift to help with their expenses), and there are several unspoken requests!
- THIS WEEK – Remember this verse every day: “He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11) And while you are being guarded, MAGNIFY our God!!!

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

WHAT DO WE WANT? There are hundreds of “things” that promise to make us healthy, wealthy, and wise … there are even preachers that say if we “do this” or “give this” – we will get the miracles we need for healing and for prosperity. Of course, God’s Word teaches us that faith and obedience get God’s attention, and that honoring Him with our giving - and sowing financial seeds produces a harvest. But … there is definitely more to it than that. It’s not like we can put a quarter in a gum-ball machine and out will roll our miracle. God expects more from us than a robotic payment towards our needed victories and provision. Let’s roll back the calendar to the time of the Old Testament kings, and check out King Solomon’s character for a few moments. Something about young Solomon had gotten God’s attention, and He desired to give this new king whatever he would ask for. Though not perfect in his immature and inexperienced years, and though in later years he did not remain in full obedience to God’s covenant … at this point in his life, Solomon demonstrated admirable humility and dependence on the Lord God of Israel. He did this by asking – not for long life or for personal wealth, or for the death of his enemies – but for a discerning heart to lead God’s people. And it would seem that so impressed God that he granted him not only a “wise and discerning heart” – but so much so, that no one before and no one after would possess wisdom to the degree that Solomon did. And there was more! God gave Solomon the things he did NOT ask for: riches and honor, and a long life IF he would obey God’s statutes and commands as David, his father, had. The wisdom and the riches and the honor, Solomon definitely received. The long life – he did not. He lived to be about 60 years of age, because he did not stay true to the covenant God had made with His people. So, what went wrong? I Kings 3: 4 mentions a thousand burnt offerings that Solomon offered on that altar at Gibeon, so we know he was a generous giver. He had asked God for what was most important. Yet, he allowed his character to become flawed, and ended up being stripped of his kingdom (though God delayed that punishment and tore it away from Solomon’s son), and his promise of long life. Chapter 11:4 says that, “As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been.” Verse 9 tells us that “God became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel …”. Solomon was given so much, and could have had even more, but his character flaw and lack of devotion to God in later years mattered more in God’s eyes than anything else. And when Solomon didn’t hold up his part, God had to follow through on His promise IF … and it was cancelled out, not by God, but by Solomon’s own actions. How incredible that a man as wise as Solomon was, could be lured away from the one true God and lose out on all God had for him in his lifetime! This should be a warning and a clear call for all of us as believers to hunger after and to pursue godly wisdom and divine discernment along with a desire to keep God’s covenant and commandments in full obedience. Only then will we receive all that God has for us … God always does His part – the rest is really up to us! Ephesians 1:17-19 says, “I ask – ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory – to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing Him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is He is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life He has for us as Christians, oh, the utter extravagance of His work in us who trust Him – endless energy, boundless strength!” Our prayer is that God will give all of us at Elevation North the gift of His wisdom so that we will do our part in obtaining all He has for us in our lifetimes!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- HOW REFRESHING and precious were the days that DJ and Melissa and Wade and Lindsay spent with us this past week! The time together in God’s House, in our home, eating around our table, hiking in the park, mini-golfing, relaxing in the water-park, eating ice-cream on a hot day, talking and laughing and taking photos, doing fun things that we’ll always remember … were definitely God’s gift to our hearts! Thanks to our church family for allowing us to take some extra hours with our family – you blessed us!
- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Wayne and to Kaitlyn and to Daryl who worshipped with us on Sunday; and it was great having some of our new-comers back with us again! We pray that all of you were blessed by God above!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, August 23rd - we will be meeting for worship at the Medford Park Pavilion on the north side of town at 10:00 a.m. and following will be a summer-fest picnic for everyone! Plan to bring a meat dish and a side dish (salad or dessert or chips, etc.) and your own table service (plates and silverware). Beverages and cups will be provided. Great food and fun and fellowship will be in store for all who come!
- TUESDAY, August 25th – JR & SR HI YOUTH will meet at Pastor’s & Debbie’s home at 7:00 p.m.
- SUNDAY, August 30th – CHILDREN’S SUMMER SPLASH EVENT with Pastor & Debbie in the afternoon; details to come! Invite friends and call us with how many are coming with you!
- SCHEDULES AND LISTS are available for those on the PASTORAL PRAYER TEAMS, and also for those who are a part of the PRAYER CHAIN! A CHURCH WHO PRAYS TOGETHER, STAYS TOGETHER!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- We are aware of divine miracles that have taken place this week, even in our own lives! Yes, God is still on the Throne and He is so very faithful! His mercies are new every morning! What a great reminder for the answers we are still waiting on Him for – with needs in our bodies, for finances, in relationships, for stepping out in faith for the next chapter of Elevation North as we begin Sunday School classes for our church family the Sunday after Labor Day, for trusting God for extra support for Seykoras for the YWAM conference in Africa. We are SO glad that OUR God is a God of MORE THAN ENOUGH!!! Let’s praise Him and thank Him in advance!
- THIS WEEK – Keep this quote in mind every day … “Hope means to keep living amid desperation and to keep humming in the darkness.” ~ Henri J. Nouwen (May everyone around us hear us humming a song of hope!)


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

A SWEET LOVE AFFAIR! Living in an imperfect world with imperfect people ~ having a sweet love affair with Jesus is imperative. It’s what carries us through the tough times – and it’s what brings added delight to our good times! After all, it’s not just “the other people” that are imperfect … we are, too! That’s you and me! This past week was just such a week that reminded me of just how much I needed that “sweet love affair” relationship with my Jesus! Though unwanted, these tough times DO come into our lives, and I think God watches to see how we will react to them. Through the years, I’ve learned that the best response I can have is to run into the arms of Jesus and after “I’ve told Him all about my troubles” … then I begin to praise Him, and praise Him, and praise Him. After all, a few years ago I made Him a promise. It was that I would praise Him, no matter what, with every breath I have, for as long as He gives me breath. Is it easy to praise in the midst of extreme circumstances? No, not always. But I’ve learned that it’s easier than the alternative: spending my energy on anger and bitterness! I’ve learned that it’s healthier than having my emotions consumed by anger and bitterness. I’ve learned that I’m happier when I choose to live in an atmosphere of praise than in negativity. I’ve learned that when I praise my Lord, I create an open channel from Heaven to me into which God pours His peace, His strength … His answers and His miracles. And for me, that channel MUST remain open. It’s my lifeline, my survival. It’s my joy, my contentment. It’s the avenue God uses to create new opportunities, to bring new gifts into our lives. It’s the direct line that nurtures an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father! It’s the source that reminds us that we are His, and no one else’s. It’s what brings the commandments to life, solidifying His desire that no one or nothing else shall come between Him and us. We are His, and His alone. We belong only to Him! We are His love, and He is ours … the Love of our life! What a sweet love affair! Joined with Jesus, not separated. Living with Jesus, being with Him, thinking about Him. Talking with Him, wanting to please Him, desiring to do what Jesus would do. Longing to look like Jesus – more and more with each passing day! Does this just happen? No … it comes by making a choice, by following through in obedience and commitment. Not just once. But with each passing day, and in each challenge and each trial and test. Do we pass the test? Do others see Jesus in us? Do we shine? We can – and we must, if we are to follow His ways and let others see Christ in us. We can – and we must, if Christ is to be glorified in us and in the way we live our lives. We can – and we must, if we are to have the mind of Christ. We cannot imagine what we could do for Christ, fully devoted to living like He has planned for us to live! So, each day, let’s be about our Father’s business … starting by cultivating that “sweet love affair” with the Lord Jesus Christ! You will never find a more fulfilling relationship!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- IT WAS WONDERFUL having Pastor Doug’s and Debbie’s oldest son and family here with us to worship on Sunday! Welcome, DJ and Melissa and Wade and Lindsay! They are here for a week-long visit!
- OUR SPECIAL THANKS to Pam for helping lead worship on the weeks that work schedules allow for it; your love for the Lord and for music is a blessing, Pam!
- THANKS TO OUR SONS, Pastor Doug has been blessed with the gift of attending the 91st PGA Golf Tournament at Hazeltine in Chaska this week. Someone gave him a page of quotes from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Banquet that was held there. It’s so great to know that God has His people shining their lights in every facet of life! Stewart Cink, the 2009 British Open Champion said, “A relationship with God is a process.” Zach Johnson, 2007 Masters Champion, shared this: “God says, ‘I will take you … not where you want to go, but where you need to go.” And we love what Kenny Perry, PGA Tour Professional stated, “I am not praying about winning. I am praying I will serve Him.”
- PRAISE THE LORD! One of the urgent unspoken prayer requests we have been praying about for weeks and months now, has seen a definite answer from God! The situation has totally changed around for the best, and we continue to pray for God’s power to be evident and bring victory in all things!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- STEELE COUNTY FAIR this week … let’s support our community and connect together on the Fairgrounds with church family and friends! Let’s be a light in our world!
- WE ARE SO EXCITED about starting Sunday School classes for all ages this fall, beginning the Sunday after Labor Day! We will have lesson material in time for the teachers to prepare for their students, and we anticipate God’s blessings as we grow in Him through His Word!
- THIS SUNDAY we again look forward to meeting with our church family in God’s presence … coming with our joys and our burdens of life, bringing them to lay at the feet of Jesus … coming to learn more about living in freedom … coming to encourage each other … and coming to lift up the Name of Jesus as we worship with all our hearts and all our might! Pastor Doug will be starting a new series from scripture – and you won’t want to miss it! Plus, a special time is planned for our “elevate kidz”!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- How we praise the Lord for answering so many prayers this past week that have touched our church families’ lives! Many in our midst still need prayers for ongoing strength and healing; for God’s miraculous work; for specific answers for specific challenges! And we are daily amazed at our God and the way He moves in our lives – praise be to our God!
- THIS WEEK – Remember … “Nothing great was ever done without much enduring.” (Catherine of Sienna)
And the apostle Paul coaches us with these words: “I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward – to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.” Philippians 3:12-14, (The Message Bible)

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North Has News for You!

MIND BOGGLING … EXCITING … all at the same time! What are we talking about? Well, nothing other than the LIVING WORD of God! It IS alive! It literally “jumps” off the pages of the Bible and enters our heart, soul, and mind. But it doesn’t just stay there for the moment; it takes up residence! And once there, it begins its life-changing work. It definitely is not lazy; doesn’t slouch around on the couch of our heart; it goes to work right away. It starts to speak. It actually makes sense ~ LOTS of sense! It seems to know what we need most at that very moment. At times it seems like a cheerleader, an applauder, an encourager. Other times, it seems like a teacher, a counselor, a tutor. Then there are times when it seems to be a Father – correcting, disciplining, shaping. That part seems to be the least pleasant; yet we like what we become when He’s through with that particular lesson! Sometimes we feel the embrace, the grace. We’ve cried out, and the answer has come wrapped in love and comfort and peace. When the storms of our souls rage and the trials and tests have just about taken their toll; the Word comes in like a flood with its rescuing power ~ and we experience divine deliverance! Much of the time, it extends friendship like no other; it’s a relationship that we can count on because while we change, the Living Word never does. In fact it tells us that “Jesus Christ is the same: yesterday, today, and forever.” We would add an exclamation point there! How’s that for a “forever friendship”? It promises us gifts for this life – and rewards for all of eternity. That’s better than any birthday or holiday celebration we’ve ever had, believe me! After reading in the book of Daniel late last night and first thing this morning, God led me to the New Testament in 2 Corinthians. Let me just take you on a little tour so you can experience what I did! First, I saw a man wholly devoted to God, the Living Word, who in the face of a signed death sentence, didn’t let that phase him, but “continued to pray just as he had always done.” Result? Thrown in the lion’s den. Result? Spared by his God who locked the lion’s mouths shut for the night! Result? The king’s proclamation “to every race, every color, every creed on earth, that Daniel’s God should be worshiped and feared in all parts of his kingdom; that He is the Living God, world without end.” Fast forward to the apostle Paul’s writings. Here’s a teensy, tiny synopsis of chapters 4-5-6. “Remember, our Message is not about ourselves; we’re proclaiming Jesus Christ, the Master. All we are is messengers, errand runners from Jesus for you … If you only look at us, you might well miss the brightness. We carry this precious Message around in the unadorned clay pots of our ordinary lives. That’s to prevent anyone from confusing God’s incomparable power with us … We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized … we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken ,,, So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without His unfolding grace … The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever … The Spirit of God whets our appetite by giving us a taste of what’s ahead … He puts a little of heaven in our hearts so that we’ll never settle for less … That’s why we live with such good cheer. You won’t see us drooping our heads or dragging our feet … It’s what we trust in but don’t yet see that keeps us going. Do you suppose a few ruts in the road or rocks in the path are going to stop us? … Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that’s what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions … That’s why we work urgently with everyone we meet to get them ready to face God … His love has the first and last word in everything we do … He included everyone in His death so that everyone could be included in His life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own … Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively … God Himself put it this way, ‘I’ll live in them, move into them; I’ll be their God and they’ll be my people … So leave the corruption and compromise; leave it for good … Don’t link up with those who will pollute you. I want you all for myself. I’ll be a Father to you; you’ll be sons and daughters to me.’ The Word of the Master, God.” (from The Message Bible) We encourage you to take time to read the entire three chapters to get the entire message that Paul wrote as he was inspired by God … LIVING WORDS from God’s heart to yours!!!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- THE LORD’S SUPPER was so meaningful to each of us who partook of it this past Sunday; how wonderful to focus on what the Lord Jesus did for us through the gift of His very life and shed blood!
- OUR THANKS & APPRECIATION to Isaac for helping with our portable music system each week for our time of worship; God bless you, Isaac!
- BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Shirley Jones who celebrated this past Friday! And to Isaiah … (Pastor’s and Debbie’s grandson) who turned 4 on the same day! We love you both!!
- WHAT A GREAT TIME the Jr and Sr Hi Youth had at the new waterpark last evening; perfect weather and perfect opportunity to enjoy each other surrounded by God’s beautiful outdoors! Thanks to Isaac and Christian for the awesome root beer floats afterwards!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- NO YOUTH THIS TUESDAY, as Pastor Doug and Debbie will have family visiting with them all week!
- THE FOLLOWING WEEK of our Steele County Fair will provide a time for our youth to meet up on the fairgrounds and enjoy an evening together – watch for the details!
- MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS: Sunday School classes begin the Sunday after Labor Day!
- WITH A LIGHTER MINISTRY SCHEDULE this last month of summer vacation, take the extra time to celebrate “family time” and growing in the Lord with each other! Make some new memories together!
- THIS SUNDAY: Don’t miss out on great worship and preaching and fellowship with a church family who loves you and cares about you! One last additional message from Habakkuk on “THE BIGGER PICTURE!” And what will Pastor D have to share about during our “elevate kidz” time?! Come and see!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- Of all the things we do this week, nothing will be more important than lifting up these people and their needs before the Lord: Tina’s gramma in Chicago is doing better – PTL!; comfort for Star and her family in the loss of their mom; recovery for Tina following this week’s procedure; continued healing for Julia’s brother, Jim, and for Pam’s dad, Lynn; healing for Samara from paralysis; for financial needs, for spiritual needs, for major, urgent, unspoken requests, and for the ongoing ministry of Elevation North, that God might be glorified and souls reached for His Kingdom! Let’s pray fervently, and thank God in advance for His answers!
- THIS WEEK ~ Discover the joy of hearing God speak to you through His Living Word every day!!! Write “time with God” in your daily appointment book ~ and it will be the best appointment you have all day long!


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie