January 11 Genuine Service, Being “Christ-Like”  Romans 12:1

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1)

Is it possible that our opinions and our thoughts are not edifying to the “Body of Christ?” Just recently, I had the privilege, and may I say, a blessing, to encounter a couple that were fully convinced that their ways, their thoughts, and their behaviors were the complete and only way to serve God! The young man that was the most vocal, shared, with a bit of condescension, that I needed to change my approach and the way that I pastor the flock, or they would have to consider moving to a church that more closely aligned with their opinions, thoughts and actions. Wow! “So, let’s review! Are you saying that a pastor that is not perfect, but loves his flock, preaches the Gospel, prays for each one, by name, daily, visits the sick, encourages the ones in nursing homes, counsels with the challenged, shows up for every event, and takes time to minister to the needs of non-members, and is active in navigating the lost into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ, is not doing what you think he should be doing?” Sadly, this couple reflect the opinion of many that believe that their way is the only way to “Do Church,” and it is so very unfortunate that there are “Tares” among the “Wheat!” I shared this encounter with one of my pastor friends and he asked, “What did you do?” Well, the reality is very simple! I still love these folks, and I will continue to love them, regardless of their actions, words or attitude!  I openly encouraged them to seek out and to find a “Perfect Church,” and a “Perfect Pastor,” and when they did, to please let me know so that I could go and observe what “perfection” actually looks like! Isaiah 55:8-9 came to my mind as I contemplated the full extent of this encounter with these well-meaning and likeable folks. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” In my limited experience as a pastor, I have continued to encourage folks to seek the Lord, and if BTC and Pastor Glen are not a good fit for them and their families, then seek out a “Good Fit,” and to be assured that they will be lifted up in prayer, every day, regardless of where they worship and where they serve! Dear Friends, is it possible that as “Born-Again” Believers, that we are to “Surrender” our thoughts and to “Submit” our actions and prejudices to the God that Loves us enough that He sent Jesus to be THE FINAL Sacrifice for our sins and that when we come to Him, by faith, Believing that He is the Son of God, that we are cleansed and that we are “Saved,” and we are ready to serve Him in the “Beauty of His Holiness?” Please take a moment and reflect on your relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ! Stop for a second and contemplate on your words, actions and attitudes, and determine if they are bringing the “Lost” closer to God, or further away!  2026 provides a golden opportunity to be more “Christ-Like” in our words, actions and attitudes! Remember - “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!