April 2006

"The marvelous richness of human experience would lose something of rewarding joy if there were no limitations to overcome. The hilltop hour would not be half so wonderful if there were no dark valleys to traverse." These are stunning words considering who spoke them, but so true. We often complain about the struggles or pain that life brings, and never realize that through our struggles we come to appreciate so much more the wonderful gift that life is, and all of the blessings that God has given to us.

 

Romans 5:3 says, "we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us."

 

God allows our struggles and trials, knowing that through the testing we will become stronger in Him. All of us are constantly facing trials and tests... God allows this in our lives, and in the life of the church to bring us together and make us strong, and through our perseverance, we will appreciate so much more the glorious light on the other side, so if you are facing trials in life take joy in knowing that through this time you will come to appreciate so much more the "hilltop" experiences to come, just as Hellen Keller said."

 

March 2006

In Malachi chapter 1, God has a conversation with Malachi, and instructs him to tell the people that He is not pleased with their sacrifices and offerings.  Basically, the people were bringing their crippled and sick animals to the temple, instead of their best offerings.  It was a worship that cost them little... They were going through the correct motions, but their hearts were not in it. Do you ever have days where you feel like you are just going through the motions... That you come, and sing, and shake hands and say hello, and just never feel like you are truly worshipping God.?.?  If I were to be honest, I would have to say that I have been there...  Many times in fact. There have been times that I brought my offering to God, and it cost me very little... Little time in preparation, little emotion poured into the songs, little prayer for the service and people attending, and even little submission to God in using my abilities for Him. Let’s apply ourselves to our Worship, agreeing to bring offerings of Praise that COST us.... Physically, as we spend time and effort in learning music, and learning to worship; Emotionally, as we pour ourselves out into the music we create together, and spend time in prayer for the service, and for each heart that will be touched through our obedience; Spiritually, as we submit completely to God, realizing that through His grace and power alone do we have the ability to create beautiful music, and that none of us has room for pride.

Psalm 33:1-3 says:   Sing joyfully to the LORD you righteous;  it is fitting for the upright to praise Him.   Praise the LORD with the harp;   Make music to Him on the ten stringed Lyre.   Sing to Him a new song ;   Play skillfully , and shout for Joy.

Let’s Sing Joyfully every time that we come together to praise Him...