Commitment
September 21 Commitment Proverbs 16:3
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)
Many years ago, when I was a boy, we had a terrible ice storm that crippled travel and stopped everything. Daddy pulled out the old kerosene heater, you know the type, a round body with a cooking surface on the top, and fired it up, and we had warmth. Since we lived in the country, and had a well, and no electricity, we didn’t have water. So, Daddy and I set out to break off icicles that were hanging on the low side of the barn, to make water (the “old folks” wanted coffee, so off we went). The ground was covered in ice and snow, and walking was treacherous, but Daddy instructed me to walk in his footsteps, and I would be okay. “Remember, walk in my steps!” I remember the joy in my heart and the excitement of that moment, as I took each step, knowing that I was walking in Daddy’s footsteps and that we were doing this task together. Wow! When I think back to those days gone by, and I understand the profound message of that experience, I am more excited for this memory! Believers, our joy isn’t found in the easy parts of life, or the balmy and pleasant weather of our existence, our joy, our assurance, is found when we walk in the footsteps of our God, with our eyes focused on Him! When I was stepping into the prepared steps of my earthly Father, I was walking with confidence that I was going to be fine! As I walk in the ordained steps of my Savior, I know that I am going to be fine! We must stay focused of God’s path for our lives, and we must continue to walk in His path, and we must continue to grow strong and confident in His Love, Grace, and Provision! When we Surrender totally to God’s Amazing Grace, then He will Order our Steps and Direct our Paths and He will walk with us (through the Holy Spirit), Regardless of the Conditions around us! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Sharpen Each Other
September 20 Sharpen Each Other Proverbs 27:17
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “As iron sharpens iron,
So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17)
“We do not walk alone!” This statement has been used for centuries by individuals that recognize the great blessing of brotherhood and encouragement! From the time that I can recall, my daddy was teaching me and guiding me into the reality that, as a Redeemed Believer, I have a responsibility to continue to grow in my Faith, and to mentor and encourage other believers! I remember a sunny summer Sunday, in 1972, when a young man walked the aisle, took my daddy by the hand, and they knelt at the altar, and this young man gave his heart and life to Jesus. Amazingly, when they stood, and daddy presented this young man to the church family, he asked me to stand with him! I was acquainted with this young man, since we attended the same school, but I was not a “friend” of his. Standing there, that day, as the church family rolled past, encouraging and greeting and extending their gratitude for his decision, I saw an awakening in this young man! As the line cleared, and the church building began to empty, I noticed that this young man was alone! With all of the grace and poise of a gifted brother, I asked, “Where is your family?” He said, “My mother is at work, and my daddy is dead!” Oh, my goodness, I felt terrible that I had asked that question, yet that was the beginning of a great friendship and a brotherhood. We talked him into going home with us for lunch, or as we would say, “dinner,” and he gladly accepted. As we were gathering our things, Jimmy and I began to talk about school, our hobbies (my major hobby was work), and the events of the past hour. We arrived at our house, and mama put one of her finest meals before us, and we ate, talked and enjoyed each other. After a couple of hours, daddy and I drove Jimmy home. As we were returning home, daddy asked me to be Jimmy’s “iron!” What? You want me to do what? Daddy quoted Proverbs 27:17, and I began to understand what he meant! From that day, Jimmy and I became good friends, and we were in communication daily. We attended Sunday School, Church and extracurricular activities together and our friendship grew and matured (One of his favorite things to do was to eat at my house). In the fall of 1973, Jimmy was presented with some tragic news, he was diagnosed with a terminal disease called Leukemia. I was the first person that he called after he and his mother returned home, and I made my way over to their home to be with my friend. Amazingly, Jimmy was resolute, calm and strong. He told me that “God has a plan,” and that he was going to trust God and that he was going to be okay! Long story short… We continued to pray each day (His Faith grew in the midst of this physical trauma), and Jimmy attended school each day, until he was unable to go, and I would visit him daily, and we continued to pray together, to encourage each other, and to be that friend that daddy had requested me to be, just a short time ago. Jimmy did meet Jesus, I did speak at his service, and I still miss my friend, but I learned a lesson about encouragement and “sharpening” one another. It became crystal clear that I cannot sharpen another person without knowing that person and having a growing relationship with them. Getting to know someone well doesn’t take special skills or spiritual gifts, it just takes an effort! Dear Friends, there are hundreds of fellow travelers that need a friend, need an encourager, need “sharpening,” so let’s get “sharpening!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Freedom of Forgiveness
September 19 Freedom of Forgiveness 1 John 1:7-9
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:7-9)
In the light of recent events, and the glaring examples of hate and anti-Christian demonstrations, I encourage you to walk with me in the recognition of His freedom of forgiveness. I assure you that this path is extremely steep and replete with pitfalls and slippery surfaces. If we are carrying burdens of guilt and unforgiveness on our backs, then we are truly subject to stumble and fall. God promised that HE would remove our heavy load and that HE would carry that burden to the foot of the Cross! I am grateful for His Great Love, and consequently, I am standing up straight and tall in HIS presence, and I simply refuse to be burdened with the yoke of sin and guilt anymore! My God’s unconditional Love for me is “Life-Changing,” and I continue to walk in HIS Light, continuing to Know HIM Better, and to claim the full measure of HIS Promises! I am excited that, as I grow, and as I become more intimate with my SAVIOR, HE has promised that I will continue to enjoy the Freedom of HIS AMAZING GRACE! Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
NEVER QUIT!
September 18 NEVER QUIT! Deuteronomy 31:8
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
Several years ago, when I was going through a very difficult time, one of my aunts sent this reminder to me, and I carry it with me, in my heart, every day! It has continued to encourage me, and I trust that it will encourage you!
Don’t Give Up!
“When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill, when funds are low and debts are high, and you want to smile but you have to sigh, when care is pressing you down a bit, REST, if you must, but don’t you quit!”
Aunt Reba continues to remind me that, in this life, things will go wrong and will get difficult, and I have a choice to trust God or not (John 16:33)! I am so grateful for the encouragement and prayers of so many beautiful people that keep reminding me that “the Lord goes before me and that He is with me, and that He will never leave me or turn His back on me!” This is not an easy journey that we call “life!” Satan and his minions are working overtime to create as much misery as possible! BE ENCOURAGED! He promised that He would NEVER QUIT on Us, and I WILL NEVER QUIT ON HIM! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Bonafide Overcomer
September 17 Bonafide Overcomer James 1:2-3
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1:2-3)
Wow! The challenges that are presenting themselves, in order to alter my thoughts, actions and attitude, seem to be intensifying! The political rhetoric, the onslaught of half-truths, innuendos, and blatant lies, used to alter the truth and to distort reality, all for the cause of evil and the promotion of organized chaos, in order to promote evil as good and good as evil! There are days when I feel a bit helpless to handle the onslaught of issues and challenges that continue to mount up, until the burden is overwhelming! Praise God! We are offered a choice as to how we will handle the pressures of living in this chaotic and purposely evil world! I can stubbornly plod along, on my own power and direction or I can claim His Power and Provision of the Holy Spirit, and walk humbly, in prayer, and turn my thoughts and mind to His Promises, and recognize that, through His Love, I am a Bonafide Overcomer! Realistically, the choice to choose God is a daily, on-going decision-making process, with amazing results! I love the words of the Psalmist, when he declares, in Psalm 63:7-8, “Because You are my help, I sing in the shadow of Your wings. My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me!” Regardless of the challenges, burdens, troubles and difficulties, God has Promised Victory! Seek Him Early, Seek Him Often, Seek Him Daily!!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
What Were You Thinking?
September 16 What Were You Thinking? 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth and be turned aside to fables.” (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
There are times when I have to stop and ask, “What were they thinking?” Intolerance disguised as tolerance, hatred justified by traditions, violence tolerated because of some misguided passion, opposition because it contradicts your narrow agenda or lifestyle, and the list of challenges is endless. When we want to be offended, then we will be offended! When we want to be intolerant, then we will be intolerant! When hatred and prejudice rule our thoughts, then we will be intolerant and hateful! Sadly, I am witnessing these behaviors within the church, at large! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE be aware that Satan is ready, willing and able to use “half-truths, innuendos, confusion and lies,” to confound you and to cause you to turn from “Sound Doctrine” to speech that more closely aligns with your lifestyle choices and requires less effort! Recognize the power of Satan and his intentions for you! He wants you to do and be anything that will defy and thwart the Divine Message of Hope through JESUS CHRIST! Friends, Test every statement, Examine every motive and Decide to Follow Jesus and Do Not be “Fooled” into following folk who are saying sweet lies in order to entice you away from “Sound Doctrine!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
“Unity versus Division”
September 14 “Unity versus Division” Psalm 133:1
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
Over the ages, individuals have attempted to unite humanity through conquest and fear. On the other hand, Jesus unites people, not by conquest or fear or by force, but He unites by LOVE! Growing up in the sixties and witnessing the social changes that were necessary and the hope-filled proclamations of men like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the words of hope for a people and a nation, I am sorrowful for humanity, that we are experiencing a purposeful division and separation of various peoples, for purely political power and prominence! On August 28, 1963, some 100 years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves, a young man named Martin Luther King climbed the marble steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. to describe his vision of America. More than 200,000 people-black and white-came to listen. They came by plane, by car, by bus, by train, and on foot. They came to Washington to demand equal rights for black citizens of the USA. And the dream that they heard on the steps of the Monument became the dream of a generation. “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed. We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal. I have a dream that one day out in the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slaveowners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice. I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by their character. I have a dream today” (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr). Dr. King, as a Christian, realized that hatred was divisive, and Love was a uniter! Embracing the Love of God and the command to “Love our Neighbors,” is the answer to the conflicts among peoples. Isn’t it sad that after 60 plus years, since Dr. King stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, that the message of Love and the message of hope, has been diluted into a fragmented and divided population, all in the name of some false narrative! True unity will come when we embrace the Love of God and demonstrate that Love, in our relationships and interactions with others! Guess what? God’s Love is for ALL PEOPLE! The Word says, “For whosoever…!” Church, we MUST present the LOVE OF GOD to this divided and sinful world! The only Hope for Humanity is the Love of God, through the Shed Blood of Jesus Christ! May we be slow to criticize and quick to encourage! May we be less judgmental and more accepting of our differences! May we be steady in demonstrating our Faith and less contentious in our witness! May we be uncompromising in our convictions yet, be considerate to all that we meet! May we be “Christ-Like” in every area of our lives! Keep Growing! Keep Believing! Keep Claiming! Keep Sharing Jesus with all that you encounter! Make a difference, ONE SOUL AT A TIME! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
September 13 “Real JOY” Matthew 5:12
** I continue to witness the unexplainable displays of evil being perpetrated by individuals that did not agree with the witness and message of Charlie Kirk! Wow! I, personally, did not agree with the policies and actions of two of our former presidents, but I did not, and do not, want them dead! Evil, satanic motivations continue, camouflaged as some righteous position, yet full of hatred, malice and violence! Be Prepared! Matthew 7:15 warns that we need to “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Armor Up for the Battle because it is here! I am praying for those who would use this senseless assassination of Charlie Kirk as a steppingstone to promote and enhance their narrow, satanic goals. Come Quickly, Lord… Come Quickly!
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:12)
If you were raised in the church, you probably remember the song, “I’ve got joy, joy, joy, joy down deep in my heart…” I love the part that Mrs. Carter would add… “And if the Devil doesn’t like it, he can sit on a tack!” Think about this concept! Experiencing real joy, in the midst of trials and persecutions and difficulties and challenges! How is this possible? Real JOY is only possible in a Personal and Growing Relationship with the Savior, JESUS CHRIST! I am excited to know that, through Faith in the One that has saved me, and will never fail me, nor will He ever leave me, that I can experience REAL JOY, despite the issues of the day! REAL JOY is more than earthly pleasures and an “easy” life! It is embracing and experiencing the power for living, right here, right now, and the blessed hope of eternity with Him in Heaven! THANK YOU, GOD, for sending JESUS to provide SALVATION and REAL JOY!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
“Call Upon Me, I Will Listen.”
September 11 “Call Upon Me, I Will Listen.” Jeremiah 29:12
**Today is the anniversary of a tragic time in our American History. On this day, in September 2001, extreme hatred and blatant disregard for human life was tragically and vividly displayed for all the world to see! Since that day, Hatred, and the disregard for life, has continued to grow and examples of this attitude are evident, every day! Living, in the midst, of this prevailing and sad attitude, we must double down on our PRAYER TIME and OUR DEPENDENCE ON GOD’S PROMISES AND PROVISION! Stop for a moment today, and honor the memory of those who were living their lives as usual, and went to their daily activities, and because of the hatred of our way of life, these innocent individuals paid the ultimate price! HATRED, IN ANY FORM, WILL ALWAYS BE DESTRUCTIVE AND HAS NO PLACE IN A CIVILIZED SOCIETY! JESUS CHRIST is the ANSWER to HATRED! JESUS teaches LOVE, NOT HATE! JESUS IS LOVE!!**
**Yesterday, in Utah, a young man, engaging in political discourse, willing to debate the issues and listen to opposing views, was tragically killed (assassinated) while exercising his free speech right. Friends, this is the culture of America today! Hatred continues to be a ruling factor, and we need to be prepared for the worst. Evil, satanic evil, lawlessness, hatred, intolerance disguised as tolerance, are continuing to dominate our culture and I am continuing to pray for a great Revival among humanity to change the attitudes and hearts of those who would use violence as a tool to silence dissent! I am saddened and angry about the senseless killing of Charlie Kirk and I weep for his wife and 2 small children. “Come Quickly, Lord, Come Quickly!” **
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.” (Jeremiah 29:12)
All of the greatest moments of my life have been experienced, in prayer and the results of prayer! The scripture passage for today, follows a promise that God made, to provide a future and to offer hope! I feel blessed and privileged to be able to call on my God, and to know that He has promised a “Divinely Guided Future” and His “Blessed Hope” for my Life! You see, prayer, sincere and faith-filled prayer, is the conduit by which we enter His presence and talk with Him and position ourselves to claim His Divine Promises for our Lives! I get excited, each time that I enter the presence of the “UNLIMITED GOD,” especially, when I recognize my “LIMITED” capacity! PRAISE GOD! Because of His “UNLIMITED” provisions, I can live “LIMITLESS!” Folks, the privilege of prayer is a blessing! We can talk to God, and He will listen and answer our prayers! He listens to my “whining” and my “complaining” and still Loves me and has promised that He would provide His Grace for my every shortcoming (Boy oh boy, there are many)! So, given the promise, and believing His Word, and recognizing His “UNLIMITED” capacity and power, with intensity and with clear focus, call on the Lord, in Faith, and share your burdens and struggles and needs and desires, and leave them at His feet! Every day, in faithful prayer, share your ups and downs and LEAVE THEM WITH HIM! Pray for each other and lift up our leaders and our friends and neighbors and LEAVE IT THERE! Bring all your burdens to the Lord, put them at His Feet and LEAVE THEM THERE! Guess What? Your Husband or Wife, Your Friends, Your Co-Workers, even Your Pastor may not always listen to you, yet we have a friend, a friend that is closer than a brother, that will listen, hear, and respond to our prayers! What a privilege that we have in Holy and UNLIMITED PRAYER! Daddy used to describe his prayer time, with intensity, when he called it his “Bent Knee” Praying! We MUST Exercise the Privilege and Pour Out Your Heart to God and Expect His Blessings, Corrections, and His Provisions! Be involved in so “Bent Knee” Praying… HE WILL LISTEN TO YOU!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
“Two is Better than One”
September 10 “Two is Better than One” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Henry Ward Beecher, a pastor that lived in the 1800’s, said, “Climbers of the Alps fasten themselves together with a rope for safety.” What amazingly wise words for us, in our world conditions for today. The Words of Solomon, also referred to as, the “Preacher,” instructs us that, two are, absolutely, better than one! Throughout the Bible, we are encouraged to fellowship and to support and to lift one another up. That is part of God’s plan for us to be “Givers!” Giving of our time and our talents and our blessings and our financial resources and our words of encouragement! Romans 12:1 instructs us to “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Many of us have excuses for why we can’t or don’t give of ourselves as encouragement and comfort to others. I want you to “THINK THIS OVER!”
God made the Sun…It Gives.
God made the Moon…It Gives.
God made the Stars…They Give.
God made the Air…It Gives.
God made the Clouds…They Give.
God made the Earth…It Gives.
God made the Trees…They Give.
God made the Flowers…They Give.
God made the Birds…They Give.
God made the PLAN…HE GIVES.
God made Man…He?
Serving God requires that we GIVE! It means that we give of our Time, Talent, Resources, Blessings, and Our All! During this difficult time of uncertainty, please exercise your blessings, by reaching out to others, and be a blessing to them. God provided the example with His Son, Jesus and He expects us to honor His gift to us, by being a blessing to others! Serving Jesus is the best way that I know, to be a “GIVER!” We have our “CALL TO ACTION!” Believers, step up and shout the “Good News” of encouragement to everyone around you and fulfill your calling and responsibility, through the Blood of Jesus! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
“God’s Contingent Promises”
September 9 “God’s Contingent Promises” John 1:12
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “But as many as received Him, to them gave he, power to become the Sons of God, even to them that believe on His name;” (John 1:12)
There are many scriptures in the Bible that tell us about God’s willingness to save. For example: God has promised to save all that come unto Him, “… and him that cometh unto Me I will in no wise cast out.” (John 6:37)
God has promised to save everyone from the “uttermost to the uttermost!” In Isaiah 1:18, He declares, “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
Our God, repeatedly, tells us of His willingness to save all those who will come and receive Him, regardless of how deep they are in sin. God loves us enough that He sent Jesus Christ to be our One, True, and Final Blood Sacrifice for the Remission of our sins! He ascended to the Father, and has left the Blessed Holy Spirit, to lead and direct the followers of Christ. The Holy Spirit speaks to people about their sins, and He inspires Christians to witness and to demonstrate God’s Love to sinners. He does all that is possible to lead folks to a saving experience in Jesus Christ! Do you remember the beautiful story of a man names Noah? God told Noah that the Flood was Coming. Noah preached and warned men to turn to God, and he was ignored, laughed at, jeered and ridiculed, yet on that faithful day, when the rain began to fall, Noah had given his final warning, and the people had pushed him aside, as a fool, preaching foolish things. God told Noah to get into the Ark and to prepare for the journey ahead. Just as Noah had prophesied, God caused the flood waters to pour forth, and the rains became heavier and the waters began to rise and all of the laughing and jeering was over, and the people who were calling Noah a fool and denying his prophesy, came running and swimming up to the Ark, pounding on the doors, yet it was “TOO LATE!” That old man, with his crazy preaching, that had been labeled a fool and a nut, suddenly, was being sought for salvation. Can you imagine the reality, as the waters climbed, and the places of safety became less, these individuals that once had been laughing and criticizing ole Noah, were no longer laughing, because they had rejected God’s call and now, they were doomed! How sad it must have been when they realized that it was, once again, “TOO LATE!” Pay Attention! God has sent Jesus Christ to Earth to Save us, and He has sent the Holy Spirit to Empower us, Guide us, Direct us and to Insure our Prosperity in Christ! When we reject the proclamation of Jesus Christ and deny the power and leadership of the Holy Spirit, then we are like the people of Noah’s time, that had opportunity yet chose to reject and to suffer the awful consequences of their rejection! HE LOVES US ENOUGH TO SEND JESUS TO DIE FOR OUR SINS! God desires that all should be saved! We are promised that all who come unto Him, He will Save!! Wow! I can be the greatest and most vile sinner, and He has Promised that when I come to Him, recognizing my sin, confessing that sin, and asking Him to Save me, that it is a done deal! Listen, MAKE NO MISTAKE, The one Fact of the Receiving of God’s Promises, requires your Salvation! “YOU MUST BE SAVED!” You can be Saved, but first, you MUST:
COME…
BELIEVE…
CONFESS…
REPENT…
RECEIVE…
What God does with you, depends upon what you do! It always has; It always will!! Remember John 3:16-17: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
“Do You TRUST GOD?”
September 8 “Do You TRUST GOD?” Philippians 4:19
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
I assume that taking an inventory of what we have and what we lack is a natural part of our human existence. I listen to family and friends talking about what they don’t have and what they desire yet, they seem to forget the blessings that they already enjoy! Are we spending valuable time worrying about lack, when we should be rejoicing, for what we are blessed to enjoy? As I reflect on my own life, I am blessed, and I am living a Full Life. I am excited for the future! God has promised that there would be great and mighty blessing ahead, and all that I must do; is to be Faithful and ask for His Provision and He would provide for my every need… our responsibility is to be Obedient! Considering all that is in my life, I AM TRULY BLESSED! The older that I become and the Stronger and more Mature I become, Spiritually, I am excited that I am focusing on what I have, and not what I perceive that I lack. God said that He would supply my every need, and He said that He would provide Wisdom and Strength and Courage, so, what do I need beyond His Promises? How about embracing the blessings and living for Him, in such a way that others would recognize His Grace, Power, Provision and Promise and that they too, would become more focused on Praise versus Pity. Think about this question: How would the Lord God of all that is, want to bless you? How about blessing you, HEART, MIND, SOUL AND WITH HIS STRENGTH? Matthew 6:33 says it best: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Seek God first and watch Him supply your needs beyond your grandest imagination…Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
BIRTHDAYS FOR SEPTEMBER 7, 2025
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:
KEEGAN BECK (18)
Blessed, Fortified, Prepared
September 7 Blessed, Fortified, Prepared 1 Peter 4:14
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part, He is glorified.” (1 Peter 4:14)
Just recently, a dear brother in Christ called with a dilemma. He told me that he had been ministering to a family in his congregation and, for no apparent reason, one individual from this family had accused him of things that were simply not true. He asked me what he should do, and I told him that he should pray for the individual and the family and that he should never stop praying for them. I inquired about the circumstances and when he shared the perceived issues, I was saddened for my friend because he was encountering one of Satan’s tools for chaos and distraction. He continued to press the issue, and I told him to decide how he would go forward; dependent on God’s promises for power and presence or allow Satan to dictate his actions and attitude. Please be aware, as you continue to grow in Christ, and you continue to serve Him, you WILL be the target of Satan’s minions, and you must be Strong and continue to Resist and to Deny Satan from having any sway over you! Unfortunately, as a servant of God, you will be faced with a host of satanic driven accusations, half truths and you must be fortified to resist! Remember Matthew 5:11-12: “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” My last word to my friend was to be excited because he is obviously doing God’s Will, because Satan will not challenge one that he already controls! Please stay in God’s Word, Praying Daily, and Continue to be a Strong and Active Witness of His Amazing Grace! TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Hearing with Our Hearts
September 6 Hearing with Our Hearts Psalm 94:17-19
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “If the Lord had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought, “My foot is slipping,” Your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.” (Psalm 94:17-19)
There are times when the circumstances and challenges of this life approaches maximum capacity. The “Clatter” and “Rattling” of the worldly noises and the constant pulling of our mind and body, in multiple directions, and we find ourselves trying to survive and, not willingly, living out the words of Paul, when he said that the things that he should do, he does not do them and the things that he should not, well, he does them. Throughout the trials and challenges of my life, I have depended on the Strength of my Jesus to walk with me and to sustain me in every encounter. There have been times, unfortunately, when the challenges of life have encircled me and the noise of the many voices that call my name, I find it difficult to hear the VOICE that I NEED to HEAR! Just as the Psalmist, in the scripture today, I have “walked in silence and have felt that my foot was slipping,” as I navigate through this life. Praise God for the Blessed Holy Spirit! In my prayer time, He listens to my cries, and He hears my needs, and He is there to lift my burdens and ease my pains, so why do I not spend more time, with Him, to receive His promises? As for me, I find myself so busy, attempting to hear Him, with my human consciousness, and fail to connect on the proper level, necessary for direct and clear, uninterrupted communication. You see, I MUST be HEARING WITH MY HEART! As a pastor, I am called to carry the burdens of so many and to stay connected to our God and to do it with a smile on my face and an encouraging word for all. I am called to endure the challenges that are presented and to claim the power and provision of the Blessed Holy Spirit, even when Satan uses individuals to attack my very foundation! The reality is that I am only human, and I struggle with the same challenges and issues as every church member. In my quiet time, I began to reflect on the challenges that I face, and I realized that you are facing the same challenges, and it is ESSENTIAL for us to remain focused on Jesus, and His Love and Promises in order, to survive this world. Guess what? We are too BLESSED to be STRESSED! “I affirm that God’s power is rising in me, Renewing and healing my body, bringing power to my mind, Giving me success in my work. I affirm health, energy, enthusiasm, and the joy of life. All of this I owe to Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. He has given me the VICTORY PRINCIPLE for which I thank HIM EVERY DAY!” I know that you struggle and are challenged, just like me, so, join me in claiming God’s Love, His Power and His Provision, and Live the VICTORY PRINCIPLE, every single day! “NOT TODAY SATAN, NOT TODAY…GET BEHIND ME AND LEAVE ME ALONE!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES FOR SEPTEMBER 5, 2025
BIRTHDAY TO:
JOHN COOKE
RONNIE FAULKNER ( In Heaven)
GENE BUTLER
ELAINE HOPKINS CARROLL
MCKINLEY JOHNSON
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO:
RONNIE & JENNENE FAULKNER (In Heaven)
MONTE & CAROLINE DIEHL
BRANDON & EMILY CREECH
RUSSELL & LESLIE RAGAN
Single-Minded Focus
September 5 Single-Minded Focus James 1:8
***Please Pray for the STEWART FAMILY as we Celebrate the Life of DAVID STEWART today! ***
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:8)
The longer that I live, the more that I am amazed at the inconsistent attitudes and actions of those who profess to be Born Again Believers, and I am constantly reminded of the necessity of remaining focused on what is real and just and edifying to my Savior. A few years ago, the Texas Legislature passed a restrictive bill, limiting the timeline on abortions. Fascinatingly, many professing believers found a “Soapbox,” in order to decry the violation of one’s rights, restated, the right to end the life of an unborn baby. In the summer of 2020, I discovered, personally, that my Faith and Worldly Politics, could not and must not mix. My Faith and My Commitment to Christ is the standard for my living and the Worldly influences must not take priority (It requires all of my concentration and the power of the Holy Spirit to achieve this). How can we participate and support anything that is in direct conflict with the Holy Scriptures and still have a growing and dynamic relationship with God? How can we promote, by word and deeds, concepts that are absolutely opposed to the teaching of our Savior, JESUS CHRIST? You absolutely cannot serve two Masters!! What is more important? Our limited and temporal existence, here on earth, or our eternal citizenship? James 3:10 tells us, “Out of the same mouth proceeds blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.” BOTTOM LINE: You are either for God and all that is associated with Him, or you are not! I am committed to living, as much as possible, “peacefully” with everyone, even the hard to love, however, I draw the line when it violates the eternal and divine relationship with my Savior. We, as believers, must make God, and His Ways, our ways and we must present ourselves as growing and forgiven witnesses of His Great Love and we must not be entangled in the issues of the world that tatter and destroy our witness! We must be what He expects us to be! 1 Corinthians 14:8 tells us, clearly, “For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” Is your “Trumpet” playing an uncertain sound? Are you living with one foot in the world and one in the presence of God? Remember---“A double minded man is unstable in all his ways!” The world will be offended by your commitment, your lifestyle, and your witness! Please take inventory of your life and determine who you will serve and how you will live! Matthew 5:10-14 tells us “How’ and why’s” of serving Him… “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Be Real, Be Consistent, Be HIS Light in this dark and evil world… Remember, Your Political and Social Opinions Really Don’t Matter; It is the Fact of HIS WORD, and the Implementation of That Word, into Our Lives that really matters!!Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
PS… Thank you to all of you who have been so encouraging, and prayerfully supportive, over these past years, and please know that I appreciate each one of you and consider it a privilege to serve our God together! Regardless of what the future holds, always remember that you are loved and genuinely appreciated! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!