June 1, 2010

Number 22

VIEWPOINT

"Retired police dog for sale – $25.”  That’s what the ad in the classified section offered.  A woman who lived alone thought a police dog might make a good watchdog as well as a companion.  She quickly called the station and sent her check.

When a police officer arrived, he came to the door with a mangy, pitiful-looking creature.

One look convinced the woman that the world is far too fast for that pathetic animal.  She complained about the dog's appearance and said she wanted the dog to guard her and her home.  That’s when the policeman replied, “Now, ma'am, don't let this dog's looks deceive you. He's in the Secret Service.”

When it comes to Christianity, there is no secret service.  Christians don't serve for show, pretentiousness or to be glorified by men.  But neither do they hide their lights, but let them shine that people may see the way to God and glorify Him through their obedience.

Sometimes we have to figure out how to create the interest.

A young salesman was disappointed about losing a big sale, and as he talked with his sales manager he lamented, “I guess it just proves you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.”

The manager replied, “Son, take my advice: your job is not to make him drink. Your job is to make him thirsty.”

The same principle is true with discipleship. Our lives should be so filled with Christ that they create a thirst for the Gospel in others.

CEDAR GROVE KIDS:  If you enjoyed our contest last Sunday evening, then you’ll be interested in the results.  The young people in the first row scored the exact same percentage as the adults in the assembly. 

I appreciate Mitch Robison for organizing the youth class.  I want to echo what Mitch said:  We are thankful for our families who are emphasizing spiritual truth and scriptural knowledge.  We are proud of Bible class teachers who are reinforcing those lessons in our Bible classes. 

I look forward to seeing you Sunday with a Bible, a smile and a positive word.   RA

More than Survivors

2010 Wednesday Summer Series

Those who are more than survivors . . .

Walk by Faith not By Sight (Like Abraham)

June 9                   Alan Henderson

Don’t Let Sin Get the Best of Us (Like David)

June 9                      Alfred Donald

Risk Everything for God and His People

(Like Ruth)

June 16                     Scott Franks

Serve God with Passion (Like Joshua)

June 23                      Patrick Gray

Rebuild Spiritual Protection (Like Nehemiah)

June 30                                 Mike Sparks

Always Does Good (Like Tabitha)

 July   7                    Ron Bradshaw

Make Spiritual Choices (Like Moses)

    July 21                      Dan Thompson

Engage Spiritual Battles with Courage

(Like Elijah)

July 28                      Bob Staples