Elevation North has News for YOU!

I’M WAITING. YOU’RE WAITING. Just what are we waiting for? And HOW are we waiting? On my way home from my morning shift at work, I heard a song that really ministered to me. As I listened, human as I am, I first thought of how it applied to me and my present life situations. Then I began to see so many of you pass in front of my face. I could feel compassion pouring out of my heart for you and what you’ve been facing these past days or even weeks. I saw one family laying your mom to rest … I saw another family standing vigil at your dad’s bedside in hospice until God sent His angels to carry him Home … I saw many of you dealing with ongoing health situations, some of you just having had surgery – another still facing surgery for cancer … I saw a few of you teens whose lives have been threatened … I saw a few of you holding job interviews for needed provision … I saw a parent and child struggling in your relationship … I saw a young woman trying to start afresh in this world … I saw a couple anxiously awaiting reunion after the completion of a God-centered rehabilitation program … I saw a woman longing for God’s powerful touch in your son’s life … I saw a marriage relationship needing to be revived and renewed … I saw a young man serving your country overseas and missing those three little children of yours … and the line of needy people stretches on and on – including my husband and me! We are a needy people, aren’t we? That’s because we are oh, so human … and we so need our God! But, while we are needing Him – while we are needing for something to take place, for something to change … what do we do? We wait. But do we miss out on our present life in the midst of the waiting? And again, just HOW do we wait for the answers, the solutions, and the miracles? Would God be proud of how we live our lives in the “waiting room”? Or would He just shake His head and be reminded of what a lot of work He has yet to do in us? Don’t worry – I’m preaching to myself as well as to anyone else that needs to hear this. All of our sons reminded us in our chats this past week – with different words and in different ways, that when we are looking towards a goal still yet in the future … we need to enjoy the here and now. What great advice! And while our passion for life and people brings us much joy, it’s so easy for all of that to get swallowed up in the craziness of hectic schedules. It’s so easy to let our minds just zoom through the present and into the future we are planning for. And God says, “Live THIS moment. Now. When tomorrow comes, and next week, and next year, then you live in that moment then. Don’t miss out on today thinking about tomorrow. Take Me into each of your moments, for I will be there … in that one present moment. Then, we will move on together to the next moment, and we will be there together. That will be time enough then to concern yourself with that moment.” Oh, of course, we need to plan and dream for the future, but we dare not miss out on the living of today. What a waste of God’s gift to us that would be: time! Once we live one moment, it never returns to be lived again. We just get new ones – one at a time! Now … to the song I heard! The title of the song is “While I Wait” and it is sung by John Waller. What a powerful, beautiful song. I just closed my eyes, sat still, and listened, soaking it in – note by note and lyric by lyric. The basic message of the song is that we are telling God that we are waiting on Him – and just how we are going to wait. Here’s a few of the words: “I’m waiting, I’m waiting on You, Lord. And I am hopeful, I’m waiting on You, Lord, though it’s painful, but patiently I will wait. And I will move ahead bold and confident, taking every step in obedience. While I’m waiting, I will serve You. While I’m waiting, I will worship. While I’m waiting, I will not faint. I’ll be running the race even while I wait. I’m waiting on You, Lord, and I am peaceful. I’m waiting on You, Lord, though it’s not easy, no, but faithfully I will wait. And I will serve You while I’m waiting. I will worship while I’m waiting on You, Lord.” What a word from God! There’s our answer, and every part of it is scriptural! When we’re in pain and our body is breaking down … we’ll serve Him and worship and not faint, and we’ll be running the race! When we’re struggling in relationships … we’ll serve Him and worship and not faint, and we’ll be running the race! When we’re fearful or confused or hurting or lacking in any way … we’ll serve Him and worship and not faint, and we’ll be running the race! Yes, we’ll be hopeful and peaceful … we’ll be moving ahead, bold and confident! Why? Because when we serve and worship our Lord Jesus Christ in the midst of all the turmoil … we’ll be doing what pleases Him most. And bottom line, that’s what glorifies Him and makes Him smile upon us in the “waiting room” of life! So, I am going to serve and worship Him and run the race while I wait. How about you?

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- GOD’S FAITHFULNESS RINGS TRUE in our midst each Sunday as we gather to worship and honor our Lord! What a great time we have in His presence as we open our ears and hearts to the message each week as Pastor Doug preaches so powerfully, and as we fellowship with each other sharing encouragement!
- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Nancy who worshipped with us a few weeks ago; we loved meeting you and learning about your family! May God bless you with His loving care – and we hope that you will be able to join us again soon!
- LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES are sent to our grand-daughter, Whitney, who is 20 years old on September 17th! We celebrate you and pray for you and wish you an over-the-top blessed year! We love you so very much! Special birthday wishes also go out to Kristen on the 21st, and to James and Sharon on the 22nd! May your lives be enriched, we pray!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE - Pastor Doug will begin a new series of messages to share with the church family, titled: “Looking at Signs of the End Times”. We live in turbulent, yet exciting days … you won’t want to miss seeing how our daily events around the world align with the prophetic scriptures in God’s Word! Invite several friends to come along with you!
- NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH: 10:00 A.M. – WORSHIP & PRAISE - “Looking at Signs of the End Times” – part 2, with Pastor Doug sharing scripture after scripture! This is your opportunity to brush up on your knowledge of prophecy, and actually, we are seeing much of it happen right in front of our eyes! Continue to reach out and invite family and friends!
- FOLLOWING WORSHIP … our church family will be celebrating autumn and our children with PIZZA & PUMPKIN PATCH & HAYRIDES! There is a sign-up sheet to help us plan for our lunch right after church and our drive just south of town to Oak View Nursery for tons of fun! See the sheet for all the information!
- IN THE WORKS: RE: FUEL YOUTH will be joining Matthias for an awesome PAINT BALL EVENT soon!
- SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2ND: WORSHIP & PRAISE / World Day of Communion with freshly squeezed grape juice and unleavened bread … and part 3 of our prophetic series of messages on the end times!
- FOLLOWING WORSHIP – we will be meeting about the building rent proposal for our church, and financial statements will be available pertaining to the cost of renting, as well as our present church giving. Be in PRAYER!
- WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE is coming soon: October 21-22 … and we want FIFTY women going with us to this incredible event that stirs the heart and blesses the socks off of us!!! Tickets are $89 … will YOU go with us?!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- AREN’T YOU GLAD that God never runs out of answers or solutions or miracles? And He still has more for those we are praying for this week: Eva, Marty & Kelly & family, Mike & Mary Jo & family, Jimmy, Johnny & Cherry, Judy, Elsie, Wayne, Ron, Larry & Gloria, Josh & Sarah & family, Justin, our church family, & unspoken requests!!!

- REMEMBER . . . “But those who WAIT FOR THE LORD (who expect, look for, and hope in Him) shall change and renew their strength and power …” Isaiah 40:31a (Amplified Bible) May we be “those”!

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

SHAKEN … BUT UNSHAKEABLE! Ten years ago on the eleventh of this month, our world as we knew it was forever changed. As the Twin Towers crumbled down in a mountainous heap of dust and debris following the attack on America by the terrorists, we suddenly realized that things would never be the same again. With the levels of national security changing color before our eyes on the television screen each night, we began to get a glimpse of the drastic change in how we would live our lives from here on out. We were in uncharted territory. We suddenly found ourselves in tight places, not always liking how our “new” world looked. Yet … we are Americans who live in the land of the brave and the free, and there are still enough of us breathing who plan to fight for keeping our land that way. There are enough of us who call ourselves by Christ’s Name and strive to live worthy of it who will do whatever it takes to keep our churches open and live out our faith openly. That day, others around the world wondered what our response would be. That day, they didn’t have to wonder for long. We held our heads high in spite of our great loss of precious lives, and we vowed we would move forward. And we held our hands up high, inviting the help of the Lord God of Israel, who is also the Lord God of the United States of America – so long as we don’t push Him out. Today I met a woman who spilled her heart out … I could tell she was shaken. As she talked and revealed her circumstances, I could tell she felt as if things in her life were crumbling down in a mountainous heap of change and loss. Within just the past few days, she was suddenly realizing that life as she had known it for the past several years would no longer look like it had. Part of that was good, really good - and part of it was sad, very sad. She could see her dream being snatched away. While she would find freedom and release in some areas, she would have to heal over others that were paining her so deeply. Long term, she would get back what was the most important to her – like more time in her life … more time with family and friends … and time to just enjoy life as God intended for His people to. But much of what had surrounded her life would soon be gone, and she was battling a deluge of emotions that at times seemed like a personal hell. She would rationalize, and strategize, and categorize … until she felt almost paralyzed in her dilemma. She said she cried out to God to reveal HIS plan for the changes. Still she was shaken. She said she begged God to hold her in His lap and soothe her troubled spirit. She felt a little less shaken – and so much more secure. Until the next deluge of unsettling emotions washed over her like a flood. She cried out for the grace to find contentment in whatever circumstances she will find herself in. She said she suddenly remembered that many years ago she had come to the point of realization that if at some point in her life she would be stripped of everything … and everyone in her life, that God would be enough. But when it actually starts to happen, then comes the true test if you will still feel that way. I asked her, “So, if and when all this loss occurs, will God really be enough?” A quiet, little smile broke across her face, and through shining, tear-filled eyes, she reiterated, “Yes, He will!” She was quick to mention Psalm 34:18 and what it meant to her … that He promises to be close to the broken-hearted and He saves them whose spirit has been crushed. She picked up the pace, and recited from Isaiah 40:11 … that He carries His own close to His heart! Soon she could hardly contain herself as she flipped the pages of God’s Word over to Jeremiah 30 and 31, where this undergirding message jumped out at her from several different verses … “God will cause us to draw near to Him and we will approach Him … then we will be His people, and He will be our God. The Lord says that He has loved us with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness has He drawn us and continued His faithfulness to us.” Excitedly, she said that she loved these prophetic promises: “Again I will build you and you will be built … you will again be adorned … and go forth in dancing. Again you shall plant and enjoy the fruit undisturbed. For thus says the Lord: Sing aloud with gladness … and shout. Proclaim, praise, and say, The Lord has saved His people. We will come with weeping in penitence and for joy, pouring out prayers for the future. Our God will lead us back; He will cause us to walk by streams of water and bring us in a straight way in which we will not stumble, for He is our Father. For the Lord has ransomed us and redeemed us. We shall come and sing aloud and be radiant with joy over the goodness of the Lord – for all His provision. And our lives shall be like a watered garden, and we shall not sorrow or languish any more at all!” I saw her emotional transformation before my very eyes … and somehow knew that in spite of her personal 9/11 tragedy that has shaken her to the core … she will emerge UNSHAKEABLE!!! With God for her, who can be against her?

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WE WERE SO BLESSED by the sweet presence and powerful anointing of the Holy Spirit this past Sunday as we worshipped together! And we were challenged by Pastor Doug’s concluding message on the Gifts of the Spirit – may each of us discover God’s place for us in His Kingdom work here at Elevation North and beyond!
- OUR SPECIAL WELCOME to Wayne and Verla who once again joined us in worship, praise, and fellowship; and to Kathy’s mom who was also in our midst again! Our prayer is that you were touched and blessed exceedingly by God! We loved having you with us!
- WE WANT TO EXPRESS OUR DEEP GRATITUDE to a special family who so generously donated a custom-built pulpit for Pastor Doug to preach from! It is beautiful, and our prayer is that God’s Words will always go forth from it with power and life-giving hope! Thank you, and may God’s blessings and favor rest upon each of you!!!
- WISHES FOR A BLESSED BIRTHDAY go out to Cierra, who will be celebrating on September 13th ... may you be blessed with an incredible year filled with God’s best, is our prayer!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH: 10:00 A.M. - PATRIOTIC SUNDAY with Communion, remembering and honoring those whose lives were sacrificed ten years ago this day. May we never forget what they did – or what Jesus did for us on Calvary! Pastor Doug will be preaching a powerful message that includes commemorating both 9/11 and the gift of God’s Son!
- NOTE … OUR CHILDREN’S EVENT has been moved to Sunday, September 25th … watch for details next week for a really fun adventure!
- NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP/FALL MINISTRY KICK-OFF with new things in the works for growing us in the Lord … and our Spaghetti Lunch & family movie to follow – plus the fun of making our own sundaes! Don’t miss this exciting church event!
- CALLING ALL LADIES … we want YOU to go with us to the Women of Faith Conference in St. Paul on Oct. 21-22! The cost is $89 for the two days, including 2 box lunches, and the checks are due to Sonya. Be in prayer about inviting a friend or two that could be so blessed by joining us for this incredible weekend! Sign up & see Debbie!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- OUR GOD ALWAYS has our best interests at heart … He definitely knows what’s best for us! And He knows how to bless & comfort us! This week let’s lift up Mike’s dad in hospice and the entire family, Kelly’s family as they attend her mom’s burial, Ernie, Audry, and Sharon, Johnny and Cherry, Judy, Tina, Eva, Justin, Jimmy, Elsie, Wayne, Ron, Larry & Gloria, Josh & Sarah & family, and several very urgent unspoken requests! May our God be glorified!

- REMEMBER . . . “Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him who loved us.” ~ Romans 8:37 (Now, THAT’S called “unshakeable”!)

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

THERE IS NO ONE LIKE MY GOD. There is NO one like my God. There is no ONE like my God. There is no one LIKE my God. There is no one like MY God! There is no one like my GOD! I could scream these words from my soapbox on the mountain peaks and hear my words echo multiplied times through the valleys and crevices below from now until my last breath … and it still would not be enough! I could never, ever even begin to exclaim and proclaim in the least, WHO He is – and ALL He is! All I know is, there is no one like my God! He reveals Himself in new and fresh ways each day, just as sure as the sun comes up and the sun goes down. It doesn’t matter what kind of a day I’m having, He’s with me! He dances with me on the mountain-tops and celebrates my good times and my joys with me. And just as easily, He rocks me in His chair when tears are about to spill over and I feel like I’m starting to come apart at the seams. Do I have those times? Yeah … just like you do. And yes, sometimes I can’t help but asking, “Why?” – just like a little child. I’ve even caught myself saying, “God, I just don’t get it! Can you please shed some light on this and help me out a little?” There’s those moments I feel as if I’m drowning and about to go under. But something in me rises up and screams, “No! I refuse to not come up again. I WILL not stay under!” Is that me? Well, perhaps a bit of it is. But mostly, it is my God IN me … giving me His power to surface and get on my feet and on dry land so I can start moving forward again! My heart is filled with thoughts of all of you – with things you share with us on Sundays at church, or throughout the week. I hope you know how much God loves you and values you. If our human hearts can ache with yours and we can reach out in compassion and hold you and pray with you … multiply that an eternity of a zillion times more … and that will still just scratch the surface of how He feels about you! Don’t ever, ever doubt His love. Don’t ever, ever doubt His power. Don’t ever, ever doubt His faithfulness. And don’t ever, ever live without His peace. Pursue Him with all that’s within you until you find it and lay hold of it – for it’s yours. Don’t waste the beautiful life and amazing future He has planned for you by throwing it away trying to figure it out on your own. Follow hard after Him, run to Him, grab on to Him and never let Him go! Show Him how much You love Him and want Him and need Him. Don’t just say words – put actions to those words. That proves to God that you’re serious. And He’ll run to you! He’ll come to be with you and never leave. He’ll come on the run with exactly what He knows you need – even more than you know it! Our God so longs for our faith to be so much more than an empty religion … He wants it to become our lifestyle, our way of life! He wants to be SO real to us, that we’ll feel as if we’ve had a glimpse into Heaven! Talking about Heaven, there’s a new book out that has become the #1 New York Times Bestseller, titled, “Heaven is for Real”, by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent. I will not spoil the story, but I’m sure many of you have heard about the little boy who during his surgery went to Heaven and saw Jesus and then was sent back to his family. For some people, something like this is easy to believe, while others doubt it and write it off as some kid’s dream. But if you read this book … just read the words … this true story of little four-year old Colton will get into your heart. And what he says about Heaven and seeing Jesus will dash all your doubts and bounce your beliefs to a higher, more personal understanding of it all than you’ve ever had before. And any tool that God gives us to share His message of eternity – well I want to be right in the middle of it! This story is rock-solid proof that God’s purpose in allowing suffering to come our way at times is really just a springboard to a much larger platform from which to share His gospel. No, we never want to or would choose to go through the times that almost rip our hearts out … but if we’ll hang in there and hang on to God with all our strength … He’ll catch us and set us on a magnificent course that we never thought possible. And it most likely would not have been – if not for the suffering. But what a small price to pay is our suffering – if it means even one soul is spared from an eternity in hell! Once in Heaven, and we see the people there we introduced to Jesus, we will only be able to smile and say, “It really was worth it all … and if my going through that is why you’re here … then I’d do it all over again!” Understanding the magnitude of the price God puts on a soul (the life of His very Son), let’s look at what Paul wrote in Philippians 3:10: “I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death.” When we can finally spend ourselves at all costs through all sufferings for the cause of Christ and the sake of souls, I think we’ll grasp a bit more how much God loves each of us and what lengths He will go to, to bring us Home to live with Him forever!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WE EXALT AND HONOR the Lord Jesus Christ for His literal presence in our midst each week as we seek to worship Him with our best! There is no place we would rather be, and how powerful was the Word from II Corinthians 12 as Pastor Doug shared more about the Gifts of the Spirit! We pray that we are making our God-given gifts available to God for use in His Kingdom!
- OUR SPECIAL WELCOME to Steve and Rose who worshipped with us this past Sunday for the first time! It was great to have you with us, and we hope that you were blessed and will join us again soon!
- IT WAS A PICNIC IN THE PARK - with a great turn-out, lots of food & fellowship, getting to know some of our new families better, and a consensus to move forward with plans for our church building as God leads & provides!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, drinking in the goodness of our God and digging into His Word for the culmination of part 3 of “The 21 Gifts of the Spirit” sermon series with Pastor Doug. Don’t miss this – or the opportunity to bring someone with you that perhaps has not been in church ever!
- MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH: LABOR DAY … enjoy some extra-special time with your family on this holiday!
- NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH: 10:00 A.M. – A SPECIAL PRAISE & WORSHIP time honoring the 10th anniversary of 9/11 on this Patriot’s Day. May our hearts be drawn to prayer for our nation as we remember the many who have given the ultimate gift of their lives on our behalf – and for their families who live on without them.
- FOLLOWING THE SERVICE, we will have our CHILDREN’S FRIEND EVENT with pizza ordered in at Elevation North and then on to swimming and more fun! This is for little ones through fifth graders. Invite your friends!!!
- SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP/FALL MINISTRY KICK-OFF with Sunday School classes beginning, and a Spaghetti Lunch & Movie to follow, with “make your own sundaes” to top it all off!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- WHAT A GOD WE SERVE who hears and answers and is always on time! Count it a privilege this week as you lift up your church family, including Eva, Shirley, Jimmy, Cherry & Johnny, Ernie & Audry, Larry & Gloria, Kay, Roger, Elsie, & several urgent & unspoken requests. Let’s especially remember to hold up all of our students this week!

- REMEMBER . . . “If there is some deep longing within that nothing on earth can satisfy, it’s because we were made for a different world: Heaven! ~ C.S. Lewis


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

SOMETIMES I GET SO-O-O EXCITED! God and His ways amaze me over … and over … and over! I feel like every day He plans a surprise, a treat, or something special just for me! And I always know that it was Him … because no one else could plan something so incredible, be it big or little!!! The tell-tale signs point right … in His direction! Upon recognition, I find myself instantly thanking Him with outstretched arms. I just want to stretch those arms all the way up to Heaven and give my Heavenly Father a B-I-G hug! I guess I cannot really remember a time in my life when I did not sense His presence. I just know it became more real when as a little six year old girl, I asked Him to come into my heart! His presence just continues to increase and increase, or so it seems. Rather, it might be that I am the one increasing in my desire to know Him more and more. I guess that’s as it should be. For He has always been there for me, never withholding any part of Himself or His gifts – ever. My prayer is that with each passing day I will know Him better and love Him more. As a young girl, I fell in love with the verse in Hebrews 11:1 that says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen.” My child-like mind tried to wrap itself around that concept, and at times when I would grasp a bit more of what that really meant, my head would practically spin trying to take in the wonder of such a thing as “faith” in our God. Listen to how the Amplified Bible expounds on this verse from the Greek: “Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things (we) do not see and the conviction of their reality (faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses).” Those explanations help us understand just a little more what faith really is. And yet - faith is not always easily lived out, is it? It’s not so easy to visualize something that yet does not exist. But that’s what faith is, and it goes beyond just seeing it. It’s believing that something will be that has not yet come to pass. Believing, knowing, without a shadow of a doubt – with no way to prove it. When it comes to faith, the hard part is keeping all the doubt out. After all, we are human. And “doubting” is something that comes easily to humans. The Greek explanation for “faith” is: “trust and holy fervor born of faith”. When we step out in faith, something is birthed inside of us that allows us to do our part and implicitly trust God to do what we cannot. I’ve been thinking about our quest to locate and obtain the building that will house more permanently Elevation North and the desire we have to meet the ministry needs of our people and others that we are reaching out to. Do we have a vision in our heart of what that place will look like – or what we can make it look like? Do we have the “faith” to see our church family worshipping there? Do we see it as a place of rescue for souls that are lost and hurting? Do we see it as a done deal – or something that we could never achieve at this point? Just this morning I heard a down-to-earth explanation of what faith really is. If we feel led to do something, and we can do it by ourselves – we don’t need faith to make it happen. But when we feel led to do something, and we cannot do it on our own, but need God’s help – that’s what faith is. Seeking God, being discerning, moving forward, and in faith, believing … that’s what enlists the help from God. Again, we do all we can, and then trust Him for the rest. As we enter the fall season and anticipate kicking off additional ministries within our church, do we have the faith it takes to leap to the next level of ministry and outreach? Do we remember that it is US who are often limited in our finances and our abilities … but it is GOD who has no limits whatsoever? Do we remember that we are His kids … and all of His gifts and resources are at our disposal for His Kingdom purposes? Do we believe His Word when He says in Jeremiah 29:11-14a: “I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out – plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. When you call on Me, when you come and pray to Me, I’ll listen. When you come looking for Me, you’ll find Me. Yes, when you get serious about finding Me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed. God’s Decree.” (The Message Bible) And just what is a decree? It’s an official edict. When something is decreed … it is ordained. So back up and read it again. This is what God has said to you, as an individual – and the same goes for us as His children corporately in His church! What an exciting decree! Let’s accept it, claim it, and believe it by faith from this day forward … and let’s see what God will do!!!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- TALK ABOUT EXCITING … that’s how we felt when Pastor Doug preached on part one of “The Gifts of the Spirit”! God has SO much in store for us – and at Elevation North we want it ALL! We don’t want to leave any of His gifts for us unopened and unused! And it was so awesome to see so many of you in God’s House on this summer Sunday!
- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Janeen, who came to worship with us this past Sunday for the first time! We loved having you in our midst, Janeen, and we hope that you will join us again soon! May God bless you more than you can even imagine, is our prayer!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 28TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, focusing on part two of the series on “The 21 Gifts of the Spirit”. It promises to be an uplifting and encouraging time together in the Word as we discover more about how God has blessed and enabled us with gifts to do the work of His Kingdom on this earth!
- CHURCH VISIONARY MEETING following the service – to discuss the opportunities for our own church building and to share financial information concerning our present obligations and what the possible future obligations will be. We encourage your participation and prayers as together we seek God’s perfect will in this!
- 12:00 NOON – OUR PICNIC IN THE PARK … Dartt’s Park, that is! Summer is rapidly coming to a close, and we want our church family to be able to gather together for great food, fun, and fellowship out in the sun (or in the shade, whatever you prefer!) Please bring a dish or two of food to share, and a great appetite! There will be lots to do in the park, or you can sit back and relax – again, your choice! (Meat, buns, beverages, and table service will be provided!)
- NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, with the culmination of the series on the Gifts of the Spirit, along with a print-out to refer to! We look forward to this exciting time on Labor Day weekend & hope to see YOU & more new visitors as we continue to reach out beyond the walls of our church!
- COMING UP: Children’s Friend Event on 9.11 / Fall Kick-off for Sunday School w/Spaghetti Lunch & Movie on 9.18 / Progressive Dinner in October / Women of Faith on Oct. 22-23 & Men’s Steak Fry on Oct. 22 / & lots more!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- OUR GOD IS WAITING AND WILLING to bless and heal and bring to pass what we think is impossible! Let’s remember Shirley as she recovers, Julia’s and Tina’s mothers, urgent & unspoken requests, financial needs, our evangelists & missionaries, our military personnel, our students as they soon head back to school, and that God will use us to make a difference in the lives of all who cross our paths!

- REMEMBER . . . “Turn your prayers from a plea to a proclamation!” ~ unknown


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

NO MORE GOOD-BYES! That will be one of the best parts of Heaven … no more good-byes! Living so far away from our families, good-byes are never easy – whether it’s your three little grandsons or your grown children. Whether it’s your eighty-seven year old mother or your siblings, it’s hard to say “good-bye”! You wait and wait for that first glance of them as you approach their house. Coming down the final stretch after hundreds of miles … something catches our eyes … and there they were! Our youngest son standing there at the edge of the road near their house … with our little grandsons eagerly watching for our coming – they had BIG smiles as we pulled into the driveway! Within a few seconds and a few leaps of their little legs, they were on our laps and riding with us the few remaining yards to their front door! There we were greeted by their mommy and baby brother! And so began the adventure of three fast-flying days that provided lots of love and lots of fun and lots of very special moments! The great talks, the yummy food around the table, the fishing off the dock, the blasting off of a high-soaring rocket and then searching for it in the tall grass with four-wheelers at dusk, reading stories and playing games, the morning send-off to kindergarten for Isaiah on his very first day, Miles wanting to pack his little suit-case and come home with us, and the ever happy smiles and baby talk of little Luke as he reached out his chubby arms to be held! There’s something so incredible about being loved and wanted; there’s no feeling quite like it. When someone you love so much wants to spend time with you … you cannot describe that feeling to anyone else – it just has to be experienced! Likewise, it’s an honor to have the God of the universe request OUR time! Sometimes we travel long distances of time throughout the course of our night or day to get to the Father’s drive-way. Finally, we near the turn to His House. And, there He stands … waiting. The Father, with His Son. Just inside, the Holy Spirit greets us. They are so excited that we have come! It wouldn’t have taken us this long to “arrive”, after all we only need speak their names, and they come to us. But, the Father has invited us time and time again to come and to enjoy His presence. So here we are! And we plan to stay for awhile! They know we are hungry, and the table is set. Jesus speaks now and reminds me of what He had said earlier: “If you hear Me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you.” (Revelation 3:20) It matters not whether He comes to my place, or I go to His. We eat together, and I am fed and filled. The look in His eyes tells me that He is so excited to have me here with Him! We talk and laugh. I talk - and He listens to every thought I voice. He talks - and I sit enthralled at His every syllable! Then, He tells me, “Come to Me!” I move closer so as not to miss a single word. He emphasizes again, “Come to Me!” And He continues with this invitation and instruction: “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.” (Matthew 11:28) Wow! He didn’t need to invite me twice. What a perfect ending to our get-away to see family. Returning to a deluge of schedules and work, I will remember with great delight, not only our newly-made memories with those we love so much, but the time spent with the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit! Just like our children, they are wonderful hosts, and I found myself not wanting to say “good-bye”. Suddenly, I realized that I didn’t have to say “good-bye”. EVER. That’s MY story … what’s YOURS? If saying “good-byes” are difficult for you, and you have no assurance that you will ever see Heaven or your loved ones again – then today … NOW … is the time to bow your head and call out to God for His help and forgiveness and salvation. Today is the day to begin a new life with Him by your side! You will never regret praying this prayer of surrender and empowerment … and the bonus is that you will truly never, ever have to say “good-bye”! Because for all of us who know the Lord Jesus Christ personally … for us, it’s “we’ll see you later!”

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WHAT A BLESSING to experience God’s anointing and His presence in our midst each Lord’s Day! It is so awesome to come to His House carrying whatever heavy load we may have, and leave – knowing that He has lifted it from our shoulders and His answer is on the way! When we “do something” … God can take our action and do something even greater with it! We dare not be passive – we must be positively active about God’s Kingdom work!
- WELCOME BACK to Marty and Kelly and A SPECIAL WELCOME to their son, Spencer, who worshipped with us for the first time last Sunday! May God’s blessings rest upon each of you, is our prayer!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 21ST: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, with the beginning of a two-week series on “The 21 Gifts of the Spirit”. Bring your Bibles so you can follow along and glean the blessings from I Corinthians chapter 12. Pastor Doug will be sharing from God’s Word and encouraging each of us to seek God’s gifts for us and then to use them for His glory! Bring a friend or two to church with you!
- NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 28TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, continuing with part two of “The 21 Gifts of the Spirit”, with Pastor Doug preaching from Titus, I & II Timothy, and several other texts.
- CHURCH VISIONARY MEETING following the service – as we discuss the plans and feasibility of new location possibilities for our church. Plan to be in attendance and participate as we pray and seek God for His perfect will!
- ALL CHURCH PICNIC IN THE PARK at noon-time: Please bring a dish of food to share, and your own table service. The meat and beverages will be provided. Plan on some great food and fellowship and fun … and there will be games for the children! The location of the park will be announced.
- SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH: KICK-OFF OF FALL MINISTRIES … including a CHILDREN’S FRIEND EVENT with pizza at the church following the service, an exciting Bible lesson, and then on to swimming at the Serengetti Park at Holiday Inn. This event is for all children who are potty-trained through 5th grade. Who can YOU invite?! The swimming tickets will be provided, as well as the pizza for lunch.
- SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH: SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES begin again for all ages … we will provide them the best we can in our present facility, looking towards our new building as God provides needed classrooms for the KIDZ of Elevation North!
- WOMEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE, “IMAGINE”, on October 21-22 in St. Paul … check out the sign-up sheet and each one is encouraged to reach another woman and have her sign up, as well! See Debbie for more details!
- ALL CHURCH MEN’S STEAK FRY with special guests on October 21st … full details to come! Each guy is encouraged to invite their sons and several friends for this awesome event!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- WE OFTEN LIMIT GOD or lack faith to expect all that God is capable of and willing to do on our behalf! Let’s not buy into those tricks of Satan – let’s claim every good and perfect gift from above for those who are sick and needy and homeless and lost without Christ. Let’s claim God’s best for each other, as well! He is ABLE!!!

- REMEMBER . . . “The light of God surrounds me, the love of God enfolds me, the presence of God protects me, God is always with me.”~ unknown

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

SINCE I CANNOT SWIM … well, I’m not too crazy about the thought of being submerged! Or more truthfully said, I’m actually more than a little terrified of deep water. Amazingly, I love being on the water – as long as I feel safe! I can be in a boat, on a ship, or wading in the water … so long as I know I will not fall overboard or drop off a ledge into deep water over my head! I wish I knew how to swim! (I guess I would need private lessons, because while I’m not a baby at anything else, I might be a lot shy when it comes to doing what the lessons require the student to do – be submerged under the water!) Someday! Today I was thinking about the many beautiful, breathtaking beaches and shorelines we’ve walked on … and I did a mental water tour! I was thinking of being in the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans, walking barefoot along the coastlines along California and Oregon – as well as the New England coastlines of New Jersey and Massachusetts and North Carolina, all the way down to the southern Florida coast. There have been the Great Lakes that stretch unendingly as far as the eye can see, and I’ve enjoyed standing at the piers, taking it all in! I was remembering the most translucent blues of the Alaskan waters and the inviting warmth of the breathtaking sunsets oe’r Waikiki Beach in Hawaii as I dug my toes into the refreshing feel of the wet sand there. A long time ago, I dipped my hands into the Dead Sea in Israel and felt the pure saltiness stick to my skin until I could get it washed off … no one thought about swimming there! I stood transfixed at the Sea of Galilee where Jesus had been so long ago, and I could almost see Him and His disciples in the boat on the water! I loved the adventure of standing up on the top deck overlooking the night lights of the city of Tel Aviv as we made our way along the coast of Israel, anticipating all the sites we would see where Jesus once walked – not just on land … but on water! I’ll never forget the boat that a few of us boarded with life jackets as we braved the ocean waters of Tasmania and saw scenery that we would never have experienced as close up any other way. Then our guide told us about the drop from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean, and we literally saw and felt the twelve-inch drop at the point where the bodies of water merged! Incredible, to say the least! The beautiful, but rough waters of the New Zealand fjords nearly threw us out of bed as our huge ship endured the crashing of high waves throughout the night. Coming into the harbor at Sydney, Australia was spectacular and while walking up to higher points in the city, looking down and over the sparkling blue water, it seemed to beckon us to return. For what? A swim? A dip? Or just to glide over it in the magnificent cruise ship? We chose the latter! I heard a song today that spoke volumes to my soul. I listened and I drank in. Perhaps one of the reasons I loved it so much is that it was taken from scripture – and God’s words always minister to my spirit! Psalm 46:4 talks about a river … a “river” that is equated to “the continual outpouring of the sustaining and refreshing blessings of God”. (NIV footnotes) The song encourages us to “come to the river – it shall not run dry!” As I heard the song being sung, God’s anointing on the singer was so strong I just had to stop and drink in the message and worship. Suddenly I realized that I just wanted to “jump in” and get completely submerged! I couldn’t think of one reason that would deter me from holding back. I didn’t want to just barely get wet with the knowledge and the blessings of God … I wanted to do a “cannonball” splash and go completely under … submerged and soaked … and then coming up out of the water refreshed and renewed and revived!!! There’s a sound to the movement of water. You’ve heard it – there’s actually many sounds of water: dripping, trickling, rippling, gushing, drenching, flowing, rushing, spilling, thundering. You add your descriptive word to the list! Once we’re in with more than our bare toes and we are completely submerged – then we can emerge with the desire and ability to let the river of God flow from us. And as flowing water makes sounds, so we as followers of Christ need to be identified as His children because of the sound of our words and the demeanor we place them into. Flow, river, flow! May we be vessels God can use to flow His river through - out to the world around us! The flowing will change others … but especially, we will be changed! So, do not be terrified of the river of God … plunge in. All the way in! Only then will you see and experience things up close that you could not have any other way! Happy swimming, dear people of God!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WITH EACH PASSING WEEK, we are anticipating more eagerly the message from God’s Word as we are building towards the final message of this incredible series on “Two Words to Change the Word.” And how blessed we were again as Pastor Doug preached last Sunday from II Samuel, chapter 11. Our hearts are being stirred and moved to action!
- SPECIAL CONGRATULATIONS to our son, Dustin, and his wife, Becky, on their 6th wedding anniversary on August 15th! May God continue to bless your lives and your marriage with His loving favor, we pray! We love you! and appreciate all your love and support!
- OUR HEARTFELT THANKS to Wayne and Verla for the provision of their keyboard – borrowed to us for these past few years! What an incredible blessing it has been to all of us at Elevation North as we have worshipped Sunday after Sunday and lifted our voices in praise to our God! Now that they need their own keyboard back, they have provided the greatest share of finances needed for a brand new Yamaha CP33 digital stage piano with full-size keyboard, along with another very special family member who gave generously, leaving only a small balance for our church to pay for. We believe God led us to the perfect piano for our church at this time, and what a beautiful acoustic grand piano sound it has, along with sounds of virtually every instrument type! Our prayer is that God will use it for His glory always, as we dedicate it to Him! May God bless you, dear family, as only He can!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 14TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, with the culmination of the compelling series, “Two Words to Change the World!” Do you think you’ve come up with the two words? Plan to be in God’s House to magnify and honor and bless Him … and together we will dig into His Word in I Corinthians 12 and uncover the treasure of these two words! Are you inviting someone to come with you and share in the time of worship and fellowship? Let this be your outreach this week!
- NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 21ST: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, with a special service focusing on the return of Christ! You won’t want to miss this exciting and challenging message!
- THE CHURCH FAMILY PICNIC, WOMEN OF FAITH, and more is around the corner … dates should be ready for you next week so you can mark your calendars!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- ONE OF THE GREATEST JOYS IN LIFE is to lift others up to the Lord in prayer, standing with them and encouraging them with God’s promises! This week let’s be faithful in doing just that – and continue to intercede on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Christ, for healing and provision and direction and blessing! See what our God will do!

- REMEMBER . . . “Make yourself totally, unreservedly available to God for wherever and however He wishes to use you to make a difference in the world!” ~ Debbie Jones

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

STUCK. OR UNSTUCK? Which are you? I get very little time on Facebook, but cannot resist checking every evening to see what our kids and grandkids are up to! It’s such a great way to find connection to their daily happenings when we may not be able to actually chat on the phone or send off an e-mail! And … the pics! They are priceless!!! Then there are the video clips which are so much fun and make you almost feel as if you are right there with them!!! In my daily quest to “see” our family, I also catch bits and pieces of the posts from others that are friends on my Facebook. Some I know so well, and others are just friends of friends. But in my quick scanning over posts to find our family, I’ve come across a pattern of postings, and I’ve really been stirred by what is being said. A few days ago, a young man wrote this on Facebook: “I need a new life; I’m tired of this one.” Now when I say “young man” – I’m not talking about a young kid in his teens, though a big share of them face each day feeling just this way. This guy is probably in his early thirties now. And hearing the despair and frustration in his post, suddenly I’ve become aware of so many others who are echoing his same emotions, just in their own words. My heart cries out, “God, how can I help them all? I want to reach out and offer them hope and change and fulfillment of their dreams! What can I do, Lord? Show me, please show me!” I know … it’s only through the love of Christ that they will ever experience a hope that outlasts the storms. I know … it’s only through the power of the Holy Spirit that they will ever experience the change they are longing for that will not disappear with the next disappointment. I know … it’s only through the ignition of their faith and belief in God the Father and His unwavering belief in us, that they will ever experience what it’s like to walk into and then live out their dreams for His glory and His Kingdom purposes. But … just how do I convey such life-changing God-gifts into their lives? After all, it’s up to them. The choices they make each day push them ever forward on a fast road – to deeper despair and failure … or to greater joy and satisfaction. But there is still one factor missing. God already offers them everything they will ever need to make it through. And not just “make it through”, but to excel! I really believe in the depths of my heart that there needs to be a messenger. A messenger who will trumpet encouragement and declare God’s favor over them. A messenger who will not hang back, but who will arise to the forefront of their lives with a commitment to stand in the gap for them. A messenger who will affirm their God-given gifts and talents louder than the world shouts out their mistakes and their lack. A messenger who will pray God’s Word over them, claiming all that He has for them. Since neither I or any of you have a “world-stage” at this point in our lives, I believe that God is calling us to be this messenger to one person at a time. Today. Right now. As this person crosses the stage of our lives, this is our opportunity to be that encourager. To be that life-changer. To be that hope-giver. All in the Name of Jesus! If no one else does, we need to be that person who will hand out the hope they need, coming alongside them with a caring hug and a pat on the back. If no one else does, we need to become the one who reminds them that someone believes in them, and genuinely mean it as our actions back up our words. If no one else does, we need to be that person who stirs life into the childhood dreams that God has placed in their hearts, reviving what was almost suffocated beneath their “want-to-just-give-up” thinking. How will they know - unless we tell them? How will they know – unless we go to them? How will they know – unless we take action? What if we are the rescuer to get them “unstuck” from their present place in life? It’s time that the very fragrance of Christ’s presence eliminates the odor of their “stinking life” (and they’d be the first to admit it!). Dear ones, let’s break ground and step up to be the person God ordained us to be. Let’s not waste even one opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. It can be as simple as a short phone call when their name comes to you. Hearing your voice and loving words can be just the exact “shot in the arm” that they needed right at that point in time. It can be as quick as a short text or e-mail, with an idea that crosses your mind that might be just what clinches what they had been thinking of. Or it can be a reminder that you are praying for them – it will shoot adrenaline into their sinking spirits and give them the boost they need to “keep on keeping on”! We don’t have to be God to them. There is only one God, and we will never be Him … we just need to make ourselves available to be used by Him! When we’re unstuck … may we be there for those who are stuck. And thank God for those who are unstuck who come to rescue us – when we’re stuck! Each new day brings the promise of a new life in Christ … don’t miss out on your new life each morning! You’ve got to take it!!! It’s yours. Go ahead!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- ENTERING THE HOUSE OF THE LORD is one of the most exciting, rewarding things we can do! And each Sunday, that’s how we feel as we experience His presence and His blessings! How we love our fellowship with Him and with each other at Elevation North!
- A SPECIAL WELCOME to Marty and Kelly who came to worship with us for the first time this past Sunday! What an encouragement your presence was to all of us, and it is our prayer that you were blessed in our midst! May God bless you both, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
- LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES are in order for two special people … our grandson, Isaiah, who will be 6 years old on Sunday, August 7th and to our mom, Shirley, who celebrates her birthday the very same day as her great- grandson! We love you both so very much, we thank God for you, and we pray His precious blessings upon your lives!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 7TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP & COMMUNION … with our focus and devotion being on the Lord Jesus Christ as we offer Him our very best worship! Join us in song, in praise, in prayer, and in the Word as Pastor Doug draws close to the conclusion of this incredible sermon series on “Two Words to Change the World.” Part 6 will be taken from II Samuel, chapter 11 … and you will have to come to see which two words are given this week!
- NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 14TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, with the sermon series coming to the final climax as the two words are finally revealed in a stirring, challenging, and unforgettable message about how “Two Words CAN Change the World!” Why not think of several people you can invite as Pastor D summarizes briefly each of the previous messages leading up to this one! May it be life-changing for us and for the world!
- OUR ELEVATION NORTH FAMILY PICNIC will be held at the end of this month … watch for a poster with all the details, and check the blog weekly!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- OUR LIVES CAN BE a sweet-smelling fragrance before our Father in heaven, especially when we care about the needs of others and lift up prayers on their behalf! Take time to remember Julia’s mom and brother, Tina’s mom, Eva, Jimmy and Nancy, Gerard, Judy, Kay, Roger, Larry and Gloria, Josh and Sarah & family, Johnny and Cherry, Ernie and Audry, Isaac, Justin and our military, our local, national, and global leaders, and many unspoken requests that are urgent! Continue to thank God in advance with us for the provision of the building to house our church! God’s answers and resources NEVER run dry! He is Jehovah-Jireh … our Provider!

- REMEMBER . . . “God says: ‘Haven’t I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don’t be timid; don’t get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take.’” Joshua 1:9, The Message Bible (And taking steps prevents you from staying stuck!)

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

BRUSHSTROKES … they are painted all over the canvas of my life! My favorite, of course, are the vivid, bright colors that catch the rays of the sun and add a zesty splash to the picture of the moment. Some of those snapshots you’d just love to capture and put in a bottle so that you could open it up at a future moment when you needed one of those captivating experiences all over again! I felt that way on Sunday afternoon when my husband and I enjoyed a very special lunch together in a small town some distance away. Deciding to be spontaneous, we drove around the town square a few times in search of a quaint, quiet, tucked away spot. And find it, we did! We entered through an old hotel, wound our steps up and down and around to a lower level, and made our way out into the fresh air and sunlight to the outdoor patio. Shaded by tall stately trees, gated by wrought iron with green foliage intertwined, sitting on heavy iron chairs on the stone floor … our view over the rushing river was both beautiful and peaceful. We drank in the joy of feeling like we had drawn away from all of our weekly demands and responsibilities to a place of retreat and renewal. We ordered from the surprisingly great-priced menu … and then sat back and talked and relaxed and just breathed in this picture-perfect day … the air, the sights, the sounds! I told my husband I would LOVE to pick up this place and set it at the back of our church when God provides the building and property for us someday soon! What a place for our people to come to escape the craziness of life for a few moments and find sweet rest and renewal in such a gorgeous safe haven! Like a taste of heaven – on earth! Perhaps in time, we’ll be able to create just such a place for the tired and the hurting to be revived in their bodies and souls! It reminded me of how I feel when I escape the craziness of our present lives, as I wind my way through so many responsibilities and deadlines, finally exiting all of that into the most amazing place I’ve ever been! I find the atmosphere both soothing and exhilarating. I close my eyes and my breath is caught away by the radiance and beauty of my Lord. Inviting chairs are set close together at a small table, and my eyes rove o’er all the depth of beauty tucked in this private place. It’s all perfect. Perfectly calm and serene. Perfectly assuring and comforting. Perfectly healing and energizing. Perfect love is speaking. And not a word from His lips has yet been spoken. All this … just because He IS. After all, He is “I AM.” That kind of encompasses everything all at once – wouldn’t you say? This time, there is no food. I am fed by His love and our fellowship, by His words and His smile. In these moments, I experience contentment like no one on earth can offer. And the refills are free! As satisfied as I am, longing to just stay in this place with my Jesus … I realize that I cannot. There is so much to be done on the other side of this intimate place. Re-tracing my steps back over the stones and up and down the steps, I step out into the heat of the day. There is Gerard, the 20-year old son of our friend, Kathy, from one of our previous ministries many years ago. She was just a young girl then, and now … her son is fighting stage 4 germ cell cancer. She’s standing by him through every step, every treatment, experiencing every emotion that a mom has. We’ve just found each other again on Face-book. There’s Larry, who has been on the road for fifty years telling people about Christ, he and his wife giving it their all, and now … he’s facing 2-3 months of recovery from neck and back surgery; his precious wife standing by making sure that he is safe in his walking therapy and in every head, neck and back movement that is critical to regaining his strength and mobility … their emotions stretched all the way from their passion to evangelize the lost to finding God’s rest in this unexpected place in their lives. There’s Jimmy and Kay and Roger, all battling cancer of different kinds, one while working on the job – the others living in the retirement season of their lives … all trusting God with their very lives. There’s Josh and Sarah and their two little boys serving Christ overseas, fighting off sickness in the winter season there … while committed to serving Christ wholeheartedly in their ongoing discipleship and outreach ministries. There’s Justin, far away from his three small children, serving in the unbearable heat of a war-torn country, defending us and others, but missing them. There’s you, and you, and you … facing a daily menu of stress and ill-health and financial lack. We are all in these kinds of places at one time or another. I just want to remind you that when we are IN these difficult places … our only choice for survival and overcoming victory is running to THAT PLACE where we are once again renewed and refreshed and revived! Without that time in the perfect presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, we cannot make it! It’s also in THAT PLACE that we know we must exit and re-enter the world we live in, emerging with all we need to make a difference in the lives of everyone we know … because of the ever-present presence of Christ! He HAS promised to be with us always, you know! (Matthew 28:20)

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- PRAISE ALWAYS INVITES THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST … and each Lord’s Day it is our greatest joy to love on our Lord and lavish our praise on Him! Each week we are so excited to open His Word and hear the message God has laid on Pastor Doug’s heart. God continues to ignite our hearts in this present series and we are being stirred to more focused action on our part! What will God do next?! We at Elevation North want to be right in the middle of where He is at work!
- SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES are in order for Merv, who will celebrate on August 5th! May your year to come be your best ever as you experience the richness of God’s blessings!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, JULY 31ST: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP … your opportunity to worship freely with your Christian brothers and sisters, raising your voices with joy and humbling your hearts before the Lord Jesus Christ. Come expectantly, ready to receive from God as we hear part 5 of the “Two Words to Change the World” series – with scripture from II Samuel, chapter 11. Open your hearts to receive all God has for you this day!
- RE: FUEL YOUTH EVENT with lunch together following our worship time (bring your own money) … then on to the Adventure Greens for miniature golfing and Frisbee golfing after. Golfing tickets will be provided and you are encouraged to bring a friend along with you! In case of rain or stormy weather, we will opt for another event!
- NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 7TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, focusing on part 6 of the continuing series on “Two Words to Change the World” – this message from the book of I Timothy. So far, we’ve learned about several “two-word” answers to this world’s dilemma, which all of us should attain to – but they are only a part of the ultimate answer! Make a list of who you can invite to come and worship with you – and together experience God!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- ANSWERS ARE COMING OUR WAY as we hear reports of God’s divine touch in many circumstances … and how grateful we are for His miraculous intervention in life after life! What power we have as we ask of God … so keep your prayers ongoing for the many that were listed last week – both in petition and in praise! Your prayers really do matter! All glory be to God!

- REMEMBER . . . “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

TEARS. There are SO many kinds of tears! And we saw lots of them fall earlier this week as our 10-year old granddaughter realized that her hours with us were drawing to a close. Her dad and mom and one of her brothers had just spent the past few days with us on part of their vacation, and what a great time we had together! We packed as many fun things into those hours as we could! The thought of separation instantly filled Lindsay’s eyes with tears that she couldn’t contain – and they flowed freely down her cheeks and dropped to her cute summer top leaving wet spots where they splashed. Or if Grampa or I were close by to hold her and comfort her – we were moistened with the same kind of wet marks! Our hearts went out to her. When you love someone, it hurts to be separated. It’s painful – and it’s easy for the tears to come. You see, we love looking around and seeing those we love close by. We love knowing that we enjoy many of the same fun things and seeking out adventures together. Most of all, we love that we all have a heart for the things of God and can share so naturally what is most important to us! It just feels good to be together – to be able to do things together – to have that physical closeness! But that isn’t where God has called us to be all the time. They are where God wants them … and we are where He wants us. That’s where the closeness of the heart relationship in being family comes in! Though distance separates us, we are as close as ever because we stay connected and nurture the love that God has given us to share. Then when we are together we just pick up where we left off the last time we talked. We don’t have to wait until we literally see each other to carry on our relationship … it can be a frequent blessing for all of us! I have a feeling that God’s heart would be so moved if we shed tears over missing Him … if tears flowed because we couldn’t be with Him as much as we wanted to … if our cheeks were wet with teardrops because we longed for more connection with Him. I believe those emotions would be the springboard to a great revival in our lives that would change how we walk with God. We would be drawn to His Word more often than to the TV. We would give up eating if need be to have time to feast with Him – if there were no other time available. We would seek to know what pleases Him most, and would naturally be involved in doing what He enjoys. Isn’t that what “Thy will, not mine be done” really means? It’s not just about major decisions like career choices or major purchases like buying a home or a vehicle, though seeking God’s perfect will is very important in those arenas of our lives. It’s as much about spending time with Him, seeking His ways, and following hard after Him and His will on a daily basis! I’m reminded of our grandson in the Mall of America – with his very own stash of money. And before Wade ever looked for something for himself, he was on a mission to purchase a very special handbag that his girlfriend had expressed interest in. He purposefully strode into that exclusive store, opened up his cell phone to the site with the photo of that purse, and I saw the employee nod her head as if affirming, “yes, we have it.” She moved in a direction, removed the handbag from the display, and they proceeded to the register. Soon he came out with a beautiful box tied with ribbon … all tucked in a classy gift bag. Mission accomplished! Only then did he move on to other stores to search for clothing for himself – at only the best sale prices. I was so touched as I saw in his heart a desire to give the best, putting himself and his desires after her. That is definitely a picture of someone seeking to please someone they love. We do that for people … can we not do it for our God?! By faith, God helps us attain to levels in our relationships that we could on our own only hope for. With God, anything and everything is possible! Family relationships, marriage relationships, friendships, business relationships, and best of all, our God relationship … they all take the shape of connection and closeness, favor and trust. All that leads to a bond that cannot be broken. The strength of our relationships only add to the beauty of them! What a gift from God ~ relationships! Back to the word, ”separated”. It is a harsh, ominous word. And it’s the deepest cry of God’s heart – that we will never be separated from Him, especially for all of eternity. Being separated … being apart … not being connected. That’s a horrible feeling for one day, much less for days without end. Feeling Lindsay’s pain of temporary physical separation in between our visits – may we take the message of Christ to our world, so that others will never experience the pain of final separation from God for eternity!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- WHAT A GREAT TIME we are experiencing through this new series of messages that Pastor Doug is preaching on Sunday mornings! Last Sunday was no exception as we searched out Genesis 3 and focused on “Seeking Wisdom” – which is a part of the final answer to the “Two Words to Change the World” – but not THE answer! Stay tuned for what is to come ~ and don’t miss even one of these special messages!
- BELATED ANNIVERSARY WISHES go out to Matthias and Liz who celebrated on July 20th! May God continue to bless your lives and your love that God has given you to share!
- SPECIAL CONGRATULATIONS to Eva and family on the recent arrival of her new little grandson … details to come! May God bless all of you!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, JULY 24TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP in the House of the Lord … come expecting divine blessings in your life as you honor God and put HIM first! Pastor D will be preaching from I Samuel chapter 17, and we will be discovering what two more words could be as we think about changing our world in this sermon series! Will you discover what they are before the final message? Be sure to bring your Bibles along, and bring some friends with you, too! They’ll be blessed and challenged, all at the same time!
-11:15 A.M. – KINGDOM CONNECTION – with time devoted for fellowship and lifting each other up in friendship and prayer as we share our hearts with each other!
- NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 31ST: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP with part 5 of our series taken from II Samuel, chapter 11. We’ll continue to move forward in this series, “Two Words to Change the World” – with the storyline taken from Andy Andrews' newest book titled, “The Final Summit” – and everything being based scripturally on the Word of God! Do you think you’ve found the “two-word” answer yet? Stick with us and you’ll see! As believers, we all need to be about being part of the solution to the ills of this world!
- FOLLOWING WORSHIP, all of our youth will be joining up for lunch (bring your own money!) … then we will head out to do some miniature golfing, then to the park for some Frisbee golfing and more fun out in the sun! Your tickets for golfing will be paid for! Everyone … invite a friend to come along with us!
- OUR MINISTRY EVENT flyer is being fine-tuned pending come finalizations of dates and special guests. We will print it as soon as possible and distribute it for your own use and for outreach purposes!

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- DO YOU EVER FEEL OVERWHELMED at all the prayer requests that you are aware of? We could spend hours on our knees lifting up almost everyone … because we all have needs, don’t we? Yet, what a privilege it is to come before our Lord, asking, believing, and claiming all that He has for each one, in His Name and according to His will! This week, let’s remember Julia & her mom, Tina & her mom, Mary, Hazel, Jimmy & Nancy, Larry & Gloria, Josh & Sarah & family, Kay, Roger, Eva, Johnny & Cherry, Ernie & Audry, Gerard, Justin as he serves overseas on our behalf, Cierra with her summer jobs, our nation, and God’s perfect will concerning our church building! We serve an amazing God who can do ANYTHING!!! How we praise and thank our God!

- REMEMBER . . . “The stronger the winds, the deeper the roots, and the longer the winds, the more beautiful the tree.” ~ Chuck Swindoll


Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie

Elevation North has News for YOU!

CONTENT? OR DISCONTENT? In my recent quiet times with God, I’ve been tossing those two words around, asking Him to help me discern when it’s right to feel one way or the other! I’ve always loved what Paul penned in Philippians chapter 4 … these words are really the way to live life! He says, “I’ve learned by now to be quite content WHATEVER my circumstances. (emphasis mine) I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.” (verses 11b-13, The Message Bible) While it’s sometimes easier said than done to live in total contentment, most of us “get it” – we understand what Paul is saying and know that he is right. We just don’t always get it right, do we? Many of us have to struggle with trusting fully and unreservedly before we can finally say that we are truly content – no matter what! But when is it alright to be discontent? And is there really a godly discontent? Is it permissible to not be satisfied when we see things not being done in the spiritual realm and we experience a restlessness or discontent? Is it actually a good thing in some instances to NOT be content to just let things be as they are – but to passionately want to make them better? I think of a story that I heard in the past few weeks. It was related that there is a group of rescuers that go out on the North Sea to save those who are perishing in the treacherous waters. These big, burly men have been known to literally fight each other for the chance to be the ones to go out on the boat to bring in those that would otherwise perish in those cold, deep, deadly waters. More than a few moments in the water brings certain death to anyone whose boat or ship has met with the perils lurking in the high seas. Because time is of the essence, if rescuers are not on the scene as quickly as they can be, lives are lost. The interesting thing is that these men are in certain danger, as well. The North Sea is unforgiving in its treachery, and does not favor rescuers over those who are lost in the waters. What will it be? Will lives be rescued – or lost? What makes burly men fight each other for the chance to save someone from the icy grip of the North Sea – at great risk to themselves? Why can they not be content to just leave those people alone? Why are they so impassioned? I tell you, if I was the one lost at sea and moments from death, I would of all people be most grateful for their discontent and resulting desire to come and rescue me! Some of these men lose their lives trying to save others. What a picture of Jesus! God wasn’t content to just let us be – to leave us to the high seas of sin and certain destruction. So He sent His Son, the Rescuer of all time, to come and lift us out of those icy waves and put our feet safely on ground again. We say, “Well, that’s God. And that was really nice of Jesus to be willing to not just risk, but give His very life … for us. But, that was Jesus. I’m not sure I could knowingly jump into a rescue boat that offered no guarantees that I would ever return to shore – just to try to save someone I don’t even know!” But isn’t that what our journey on this earth is all about? Isn’t that what brings purpose to our lives? Shouldn’t that be the passionate mission of the church – to rescue souls of men and women and young people at all costs? Shouldn’t we be vying for the opportunity to throw the rescue ropes to those who are headed for certain destruction – instead of shying away from sharing the life-saving gospel that will put their feet back on solid ground? Oh, Lord Jesus, open our eyes to see as You see! Help us to do something – and not just sit back and see if someone else will. Precious moments lost in time equal precious souls lost for eternity. None of us want to be guilty of letting time and opportunity slip by us resulting in the loss of lives for all of eternity, do we? That’s not our intention, I know. But doing nothing gets the same result. Only doing something to make a difference will impact the lives of others and ultimately bring about a change in their final destination! We find it so very exciting to be about our Father’s business here at Elevation North and beyond … and that includes the full gamut from church to jobs to family, and personally. God loves us SO much that He has put within us the desire to pass on what we have already received from Him. And it doesn’t get any better than that! We wish for you what Paul claims for the Christians at Philippi … “Receive and experience the amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, deep, deep within yourselves.” (chapter 4, verse 23) Now THAT’S contentment – in ANY circumstance!

IN A NUTSHELL . . .

- PRAISES, praises are resounding from all of us at Elevation North as already this week we are seeing the results of our corporate prayer time on Sunday morning on behalf of several of our people! And of course, many others were praying, as well … and best of all, GOD GETS THE GLORY!!! That He loves us being involved in His work - is such a huge privilege, isn’t it, dear people?!
- OUR LOVING BIRTHDAY WISHES are sent to our ‘daughter’, Stacey, as she celebrates on July 16th! Stacey, may your day and entire year be blessed beyond measure! We love you so much and thank God for you! Also, BELATED BIRTHDAY WISHES to Isaiah, Kaitlyn, and Jesse - who all celebrated birthdays recently! We pray that God will shower His love and care on each of you in this coming year!
- A SPECIAL WELCOME today to our son and his wife, DJ and Melissa, and to our grandchildren, Wade and Lindsay, as they worship with us today! How grateful we are for your love and prayers and support!

- LOOKING AHEAD . . .

- THIS SUNDAY, JULY 17TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP, centered on Part 3 of “Two Words to Change the World!” We are thrilled about this series of messages and know that you will be challenged as Pastor Doug preaches from Genesis 3. Don’t miss even one of these messages, and pray about inviting someone to come with you!
- 11:15 A.M. – KINGDOM CONNECTION – time with your church family! Take advantage of the opportunity to encourage and build each other up in the Lord!
- NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 24TH: 10:00 A.M. – PRAISE & WORSHIP continuing on Part 4 of the sermon series of “Two Words to Change the World” – with scripture from I Samuel chapter 17. It is our prayer that God is stirring you to greater action in your walk with Him through these messages!
- SEMI-ANNUAL VISIONARY CHURCH MEETING w/details to be announced! Our next step in expanding God’s Kingdom is just around the corner – what will God have YOU do?

- PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES . . .

- GOD IS STRETCHING OUR FAITH to believe for what seems to be the impossible! Just this week our faith has been expanded even more because of seeing God in action and experiencing His wonders in the lives of several of those we prayed for on Sunday! How we thank our God as we are learning to trust Him even more! Please join us in seeking God for peace and divine healing for Larry at this time of surgery, for Julia’s mom and Tina’s mom, who both need God’s divine touch in their bodies, for healing for Julia’s brother and for Jimmy, for strength and encouragement for Johnny and Cherry, for the Landon’s as they prepare to move, for Hazel as she travels, and for clear direction concerning God’s will for our church building! Remember to pray for God’s anointing on the Lundstroms and Seykoras; and for safety for all who are serving our nation in the military! God’s fully capable of meeting every single need, and He will always be on time!!!

- REMEMBER . . . “Spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” ~ M. Robert Mulholland

Serving Christ Joyfully . . .

Pastor Doug and Debbie