HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JEANY O’NEAL; MIKE HARRIS; LEAMON STRICKLAND…
BEING FAITHFUL OR A DOUBTER
August 13 Being Faithful or a Doubter? John 20:27-28
***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.” Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:27-28)
Most of my life, I have heard that doubting was a bad thing. Recently, I was re-reading the story of Thomas and his encounter with Jesus, after the crucifixion, and Thomas was seriously doubting that this man, before him, was Jesus. Interestingly, Jesus never scolded or rebuked Thomas, for his doubts, nor did He turn Thomas away. What did Jesus do? He simply invited Thomas to touch Him, and He encouraged Thomas. This story of Jesus and Thomas is a great lesson for us, right now, today! Faith and Doubt, always seem to be set against each other, yet, in my life, they seem to be companions that compliment each other. Every time that I have a challenge and every time that I have Doubts, it is a great invitation to introduce the Faith in God, that saves me and sustains me! It is human to doubt. I am excited that my doubt is a catalyst to express a deeper and stronger Faith. We all, at times, wrestle with Doubts and Fears. Every one of us, at one time or another, have questioned God and His relevance in our lives. When you are questioning, draw deeper into God’s Word and when others come to you with questions and Doubts, bring them along side and assure them that Doubt is normal, and Faith is the Key to survival. My Dear Daddy would always assure others with this fact: “When Your Faith is Growing, Your doubts and Fears will die!” Jesus did not shame Thomas, and He does not shame us today! Please pray that Jesus will help you in your unbelief and will cause you to focus on the selfless act on Calvary and allow your Faith to grow and prosper and that you can help others, along the way! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 12, 2021
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO: JACKIE HUNTER; PAT HORTON; KATELYN WHITLEY; GEORGE CREECH; SAM MORRIS! May God Bless Each One Of You With Good Health and His Prosperity! In His Love, Pastor Glen
PERSONAL COMMITMENT
August 12 Personal Commitment James 4:7-8
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:7-8)
***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.” Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***
Who is in charge, of your life? Who has your loyalty and devotion? Who do you look to for authority and guidance for your living? James is pointing out that we, want to serve God, yet, we allow the Devil to have authority over our lives. We have to choose who we will follow! Through the Blood of Jesus, our God has provided the ability to stand up against the wiles of the Devil, as he creates temptations, within our lives. Under the Redeeming Blood of Jesus, we are no longer controlled by the power of sin, nor are we helpless against Satan and his minions. Praise God! We have the power and the authority to stand up and speak with Holy Power, to Satan and his henchmen, to get away and to “Flee” from us! When we choose to draw near to God and resist the wiles of Satan, the scriptures tell us that He (God) will move closer to us! Remember, we have the Victory! We just, have, to claim it! Live it! Share it! I choose to resist Satan, Claim God’s Promises of Victory and be confident in my personal devotion and commitment, each day of my life! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 11, 2021
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO LANDON BAILEY, MACKENZIE CLARK, MELISSA WORLEY, BROOKE HARGREAVES
THE POWER OF WORDS...
August 11 The Power of Words Daniel 10:19
***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.” Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Do not be afraid, you who are highly esteemed,” he said. “Peace! Be strong now; be strong.” When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, “Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength.” (Daniel 10:19)
We are living in some difficult times and there are people that are passing by us, on any given day, that are struggling and depressed and overwhelmed by the constant barrage of negative and destructive information and behaviors that plague and define our Age. I was so very excited to hear these words from a lady at the Walmart, just yesterday. She said to me, “Jesus Loves You!” Wow! How refreshing these words and her attitude were. I stood in the doorway, for just a moment, and reflected on her words. In our busy and chaotic lives, me must stop and realize that God’s Word brings Life! Those simple words, yet, so profound, encouraged this fellow traveler through this life. I am grateful that God loved me enough to send Jesus to Die for my sins and I want to embrace all that is mine because of this act of Love and Grace. We are called to Love one another and a GREAT WAY to express the Love of God, is to speak words of encouragement and witness. Words are powerful things, and we can use our words to encourage or destroy. I choose to Speak Life and Liberty into the lives of those that I encounter. God has given me the Words of Life that give me the power and the encouragement and the ability to speak these Words of Life for others. God has provided this gift of His Powerful Words and we should use them to provide Healing, Direction, Encouragement, and Love for others. God told Daniel to “Be Encouraged and to Be Strong,” and I am with Daniel, when he responded, “Please speak to me, my Lord, for You have strengthened me!” The more that I consume God’s Word, the more I am excited and encouraged about the future. I love what Jeremiah said in Jeremiah 15:16, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O LORD, God of hosts.” God’s Word, His Holy Instructions for Mankind, are free for the taking and I choose to “Eat All That I Can, For As Long As I Can,” until I stand in His Presence! Read, Study, Memorize, and use God’s Word, NOW! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA!
August 10 HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA Matthew 7:12
***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.” Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Jesus said, ‘In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.’” (Matthew 7:12)
Today would have been my mother’s 85th birthday and as I reflect on her life, I am reminded of the lasting impact of her actions and words of wisdom and her unwavering devotion to teach a set of standards and to expect an acceptable level of behavior that was in keeping with her one overriding rule: TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT THEM TO TREAT YOU! Factual, Biblical and Functional… Mama expected this attitude, and anything less was unacceptable, period, end of discussion. So, in our daily interactions with other humans, we MUST “Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the Grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. (Hebrews 12:14-15)” Thank you Mama for teaching real and lasting values to this difficult, and often times, challenging child. Your gentle guidance and your example of faith in your words and your actions and your steadfast commitment to teach me the truth for my life. Thank you for introducing me to Jesus and for living His example before me! Happy Birthday Mama! I close this devotion with the words of another Dear and Loved Mama, Miss Ruth Driver: “Remember who you are and where you came from…” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
HIDE GOD'S WORD IN YOUR HEART, NOW!!
August 9 Hide God’s Word in Your Heart, NOW! 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
From the time that I was able to read, my parents insisted and encouraged me to read my Bible. There were times, I would read the scriptures and thought that it was worthless for me to habitually read these same words, over and over. Amazingly, there was a situation that presented, and I immediately thought of a scripture that was appropriate for the issue. Wow! How did that happen? Mama used to tell me that, “the more that you learn, the more you will want to learn!” Why? She would follow up with some abstract answer like, “it will light your path!” She would say, “Read Psalm 119:105: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” How did she know that? I began to reflect on my early life, and I remember both of my parents, spending time in God’s Word and always encouraging me to do the same. Now, at 65 years old, I may not be able to recall the amount that Mama could, however, I continue to store up His Word, in my heart, and continue to strengthen my knowledge of Him. (Psalm 119:11: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.) Just recently, a dear friend and Prayer Partner, were discussing the necessity of memorizing the scriptures, and doing it as much as possible, with the purpose of being ready to take on the wiles and ways of Satan. When we hung up the phone, I thought of another reason to “Hide His Word in Our Hearts!” Sadly, I thought, of all, of those amazing saints of God, that I have ministered to, over the years, and the sad reality of their situations. Many could not remember who they were, and did not recognize their own children, yet; they could quote scripture; chapter and verse, as if they had just read it! That conversation with my wise prayer partner, and her words of wisdom, inspired by the Holy Spirit, ministered to my Spirit, and has caused me to desire, even greater, the hiding of His Word, in my heart and mind! 2 Timothy 2:15 provides a great reason for doing just that, every day and in everything: Hebrews 4:12, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Read God’s Word, Study God’s Word, Memorize God’s Word, Live God’s Word, BE God’s Word, Share God’s Word!!! My words are limited and time sensitive, but His Word is limitless and eternal and will last forever!! I get so excited about what is to come when I am, deeply, into His Word and the Holy Spirit reveals the intent and the power for living, that is mine, when I am “IN HIS WORD AND LIVING IN HIS WILL!” If you end your earthly days with the inability to recognize your family or to remember who you are or remember what you did 5 minutes ago, what do you want to remember? I choose to remember MY GOD’S HOLY SCRIPTURES. So, while you can, store up that precious word! DO IT NOW!!!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
HONESTY, TAUGHT UNDER PRESSURE
;August 8 Honesty, Taught Under Pressure Proverbs 10:9
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.” (Proverbs 10:9)
Many years ago, I had a way of making money and I was dedicated to the task. I would walk along Highway 111, with my wagon in tow, and I would pick-up drink bottles that were scattered along the roadside. This is not a story about littering, although, I was most excited about it, at that time of my life! I would gather a wagon full of bottles and I would immediately head for Mr. Price’s store, to redeem the bottles for cash! This particular day I was in line to redeem the bottles, behind a boy that I looked up to and thought that he didn’t even know me. You know the type! He was older and he hung out with the “IN” group, and he was the idol of every underclassman. Well, it just so happened that he called me by name. He said, “Hey Glen, I see you have the same job as me.” We chatted a bit while Mr. Price was counting bottles. We went inside of the store to receive our “wages” for our days work. Skip and I were over near the candy shelf, and he said something that created some extreme mental difficulty for me. He suggested that we steal some candy. He said that he would create a distraction and I could take some candy. Boy oh boy was I feeling pressure to “Fit-in.” Here it is, I have an opportunity to impress this boy and I might even make it into the “Cool” crowd. Struggling with this dilemma, I gave in to the pressure and slipped a pack of chewing gum that looked like chewing tobacco. I thanked Mr. Price for taking the bottles and I quickly made an exit. We were outside of the store and Skip said, “I didn’t think you had it in you!” Oh well, I did it and now I was feeling that the results of my actions were not worth the guilt and regret that I experienced. “Skip, good to see you. I need to go home and do my chores. See you around…” The walk home afforded me the opportunity to talk with my wagon and to prepare for the face to face with my mother. Keep in mind, Mama had no clue about my activities. Arriving home, I immediately went to doing my daily chores. Well, I should have known! Mama said, “What’s going on?” “What do you mean?” “Something is going on…what have you done?” What I had feared was here…I began to “sing” like a canary. Mama was calm and she said for me to get in the car, and we were going back up to the store and we were going to settle this issue. We were one mile from the store, however, that ride seemed like it was 50 miles. We entered the store and Mama told Mr. Price that I wanted to share something with him. So, I told him the entire sorted story and I apologized for my actions and placed the money for the gum on the counter. His response was not expected…He said, “Glen, I know that you took the gum! I keep my eyes on that boy Skip. He and his buddies steal something every time they come in.” Immediately, I DID NOT WANT to be a part of their crowd. I thought that confession and payment would settle the issue. I was wrong! Mr. Price told me that it was ok, and that the payment was enough, but Miss Barbara had other ideas. She asked Mr. Price if he had any odd jobs that I could do to compensate him for my dishonesty and lack of integrity. So, for 2 months, I went to the store, and I organized the stock room and had to separate the returned bottles, by brand and I was required to sweep and dust and to do anything that was required and needed. Mama was not finished…I had to quote this specific Bible verse, from Proverbs 22:1, every single day… “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.” I am so grateful for my mother’s influence and her intensity in teaching a valuable “Life’s Lesson!” Folks, we must be careful following the “In Crowd,” seeking approval from this world and its sinful ways. How are we, as representatives of Jesus Christ, to live our lives? Simply put… “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8… Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!!!!!
FEAR OR FAITH?
August 7 Fear or Faith? Isaiah 41:10
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
God’s Word makes it crystal clear; we are not to fear! Now, in our humanity, we all experience times of fear and the dread that is associated with fear! So, how are we to live without fear? The reality is that Fear exists, yet we are not to allow Fear to dominate our lives and control our future! I am talking about this thing called Fear because many of us are struggling with the reality and wondering how to overcome the issue. Recently, a dear lady asked me how she was to overcome her fear and to live for Jesus, the way that she knew that she should. I told her to recognize that Fear exists and go to God in prayer, asking for victory over the darkness and Fear that is real and difficult, in her life. I told her that Faith in God, and His promises for victory, will allow her to overcome her fears and to grow in His Grace. Daddy used to preach that, “When your Faith increases, your doubts and fears will decrease!” Folks, allow the “Light of God’s Word” to penetrate the darkness of your lives and claim His Power, Provision, Presence and Strength and boldly live your life in order to Honor God and to be a “Light” for God, in this dark and dismal world! I can hear my Daddy now, “Recognize the Fear and do it anyway! God has you in His Hands!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
HE Knows Best...
August 6 HE Knows Best Proverbs 3:5
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)
During our recent vacation, I received a call from a young man that was in distress. He had, apparently, did something that caused him to doubt his salvation and his position in the kingdom. He was crying out to me for help! After listening to his confession and his pleas for guidance, I explained to him that we “walk by Faith, and not by sight!” Simply put, we do not fit in this world! We are designed and made to live forever and because of Adam’s actions, we must live here on earth until God calls us home. We were created to be in harmony and fellowship with God, and He loves us enough that he sent Jesus to die for our sins, to reestablish our relationship with God the Father. So, here on earth, we walk by FAITH, and we are going to stumble and even fall, yet; our God loves us enough to provide redemption and renewal and restoration for our journey. We must trust God to know what is best for us and to continue to grow in our relationship with Him through the empowering of the Holy Spirit! Paul told us that he, himself, struggled with the human side of his life. He said that the things that he should do, he didn’t and the things that he shouldn’t do, he did! Even Paul struggled in his humanity. Folks, our relationship with Jesus is not determined by what we do; it is totally and completely an act of Grace. Remember, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in His should not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:16)!” The end of our conversation went like this… Do you believe that Jesus has saved your soul? His answer was “YES!” Do you understand that you are going to make mistakes and that you CANNOT live a perfect life here on earth? He answered, “YES!” Are you focused on Jesus and are you growing every day, in your RELATIONSHIP with Jesus? His answer was so truthful and so revealing… “Well, I am trying…” Listen, here is the issue! Satan uses “doubt” to cloud our witness and to make us question our commitment! So, the answer to doubt is a “GROWING FAITH!!!” When your Faith is dynamic and growing, then your doubts and fears will subside. Do not let Satan deceive you into believing that God is not powerful and truthful enough to keep what He has promised… What God does with us is entirely up to us…it always has, and it always will! Are you struggling? Are you doubting your walk with Christ? Are you walking by what you see, instead of the Promises and Provisions of God? Simply put… Claim His Promises, Walk in Faith and Keep Growing as you study His word and continue to talk with God, through “Constant” Prayer! Repeat…NOT TODAY SATAN, NOT TODAY!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
CLUTTER-FREE
August 5 Clutter Free Matthew 6:21
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)
For many years, my parents were busy making their lives simple. I would ask why they were doing one thing or another, and Mama would always say, “The simpler the better!” What did that mean? Well, as I approach my “Golden Years,” I am all about the simplicity of life. I have observed the lives of great people of God and their lives were characterized by simplicity. So many years, I have lived in a hurry to succeed and to make a mark in life. Thank God that I have discovered that the most powerful and directed life is one that knows where it is going and recognizes the source of power and becomes clutter free and is focused, and not in a hurry! Daddy used to say that you could be busy digging a ditch with a spoon and accomplish very little. Let me point out that being busy is by no means, a sin. Jesus, Paul, Peter, Matthew, were busy, and very little is accomplished without effort and work and the weariness that comes from the labor. Now, if your business is dedicated to the accumulation of stuff that are empty and shallow and hold no eternal significance, well that can’t please God, so, it might qualify as sin! I know what it is to be tired and weary in the pursuit of things that do not satisfy and have zero eternal value. My passions and my possessions, that activated my pride, were all empty and dead things in my life. Folks, I am 100% committed to being busy for my Lord! I am constantly “De-Cluttering” my life and continuing to focus on what is edifying to my Savior! Please, do not follow after, seeking “dead” stuff, when our “Living” is promised, when we seek things, that are above. Is your life cluttered with temporal and earthly stuff and are you busy digging a ditch with a spoon? “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused, Live Clutter-Free…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
COURAGE COMES FROM WITHIN...
August 4 Courage Comes from Within Psalm 31:24
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” (Psalm 31:24)
My mother used to read a story to me, from an old Indian folklore book, and one of those stories dealt with courage. When we were at the lake, last week, every morning, just about daybreak, I observed the birds and the way that they dealt with the bigger birds that were attempting to get their piece of bread that was provided by the big round thing that was in the swing (that was me). This big bird came in, all big and bad, and the smaller birds scrambled, except for one smaller bird. This bird was “in the face” of the big bird and he would chase the larger bird away. Amazingly, the other smaller birds would return to eating the bread. As I witnessed this interaction, I recalled that story, from long ago, that spoke of courage and where to find courage. The story went like this: “There was a mouse that was afraid of cats, so the magician agreed to turn the mouse into a cat. The fear of cats disappeared. Well, the newly transformed cat met a dog, and the fear was back, so the magician turned the cat into a dog. Are you keeping up? Alright, the mouse turned cat turned dog was happy until he met a tiger, and, once again, the magician turned him into the thing that he feared, a tiger. Well, the tiger came to the magician and was complaining that he had met a hunter! Shock of all shocks…the magician would not help! He told the tiger that he would change him back into a mouse, just because you have the body of a tiger, you still have the heart of a mouse.” Listen, we can build up a gruff and imposing exterior and still tremble with fear on the inside! Courage is an outgrowth of who we are and who we serve. We can face our fears with force, and we can construct mighty exteriors, and we can hoard wealth and can seek fame and fortune, but do these things work to bring us courage? Exterior supports are temporary, but only our inward character and relationship creates courage! “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” (Psalm 31:24) Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
OUR FOCUS...
August 3 Our Focus… Romans 12:2
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Do not conform to the pattern of this world; but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)
On June 5, 2021, I read a posting on Facebook, and I saved it to share with our BTC Devotion Family, at a later date, and today is that date. Please pay attention to the message and the lesson!
** A man went to the Pastor of his church and said, “I won’t be attending Church anymore.” The Pastor said, “May I ask why?” He said, I see people on their cell phones texting and typing during the service, some are gossiping, some just aren’t living right, some are sleeping, some are staring at me, they are all just hypocrites.” The Pastor was silent. Then he said, “Can I ask you to do something for me before you make your final decision?” He said, “Sure, what’s that?” He said, “Take a glass of water and walk around the church two times and don’t let any water fall out of the glass.” He said, “Yes, I can do that!” He went and got the glass of water and walked around the church two times. He came back and said proudly, “It’s done.” The Pastor asked him these questions; “Did you see anybody on the phone?; Did you see anybody gossiping?; Was anybody living wrong?; Did you see anyone sleeping?” He said, “I didn’t see anything because I was focused on this glass, so the water wouldn’t spill out!” He told him, “When you come to church, you should be just that focused on God, so that you don’t fall. That’s why Jesus said, “Follow Me,’ He did not say Follow Them!” Don’t let your relationship with God be determined by how others relate with God! Let it be determined by how focused you are with God…AMEN! **
Since April of 2020, I have been encouraging others to Stay Focused…Focused on God’s Word. Stay Focused on our growing relationship with our God, through the Blood of Jesus and the directing and empowering of the Holy Spirit! How focused are you? Who is directing your life, your witness, your relationship with Jesus? Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!!
THE CHURCH...
August 2 The Church… Acts 2:46-47)
**To the Deacon’s of Baptist Tabernacle: Thank you for covering the morning Devotions while I was away! To Mr. Clint Andrews: Thank you for filling the pulpit, in my absence!**
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:46-47)
Almost every time that I help a family with a funeral, for their loved one, the funeral home will do a DVD of the pictures of their lives. Usually, the pictures will be from the earliest times of their lives, up to the present day. When I think about the scripture for today, and I think about the DVD’s, of one who has passed, I think about the “Church” and what would a DVD look like today! The authors of the New Testament used beautiful words to create pictures of the amazing images of the early church. Amazingly, the church, in its infancy, was a powerful influence in the community and the individuals that made up the church were committed and dedicated to the same goal! They were committed to sharing the Good News and to Fellowship with God and each other! Folks, these words from Acts 2, still paints a portrait of what the church should be!! On Thursday, July 22, 2021, I was a part of an ordination council, for a prospective pastor, in the Triangle East Baptist Association (formerly the JBA), and Dr. Hinton was discussing the role of the pastor and the changing dynamics of the ministry and the church, and he said something that has stayed with me. He asked the candidate if he had ever considered being a “Church Planter.” He continued to explain the extreme need for new churches, with new enthusiasm and new commitments! As I thought about this, I realized that the “Existing Church Structure,” is not fulfilling the mandate of the “Early Church!” A picture of the experience that I endured, just, a few short years ago, when I was ministering to a young man, and he had been offended by someone in the church body, and he said that he was leaving the church! You know the thought… “I’ll get my toys and go home” mentality. This is not “finding favor” or “gladness!” It boils down to this fact: If the church, as it exists today, were following the example of the early church, then the need for a “New” church plant would not be necessary! Folks, the picture that God provides, for us, from Acts 2, does not even resemble the church of today! What is our priority? Why are we not “in one accord?” These early believers were dedicated followers and they had re-focused their lives and were living for Christ and that which was their attitudes and actions, no longer existed. They were united under a single, life changing element: THE SHED BLOOD OF JESUS! People were drawn to this new fledging movement, and they were being saved from their sins and added to the church. So, compare the picture of the church, from Acts 2, and today! How are we doing? Do we need to return to our roots? You see, “A picture is worth a thousand words!” I am praying every day, that God will use me to lead and direct the church into a renewed vision and a more active role in sharing the Good News! It is JESUS, not jobs or structures or trappings! Fellowship requires commitment and the ability to lay aside our preconceived notions and to fully surrender to God!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
August 1, 2021 - Daily Devotion
Take a Chance…Commit
By: Susan Andrews, Deacon Chair
Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, NC
Chances come and chances go! You may never become president, or a famous movie star, but as one of Jesus’ followers, you are definitely a VIP! What’s more, God has given each of us a spiritual gift…a special way the Holy Spirit will work through us to help others grow in the Lord. How do you find your gift and use it? Find your PASSION! Take CHANCES! Commit to do YOUR BEST! And FOLLOW THROUGH! Get involved with other Christian people and look for ways to help. God will use you, and as he does, you’ll discover your Spiritual Gift(s). The more you put into your church, the more rewarding experiences you will have! Now is the time…STEP OUT, SPEAK UP, and VOLUNTEER!!! Be brave…be courageous…say “YES” when asked – or don’t wait to be asked, just volunteer. Help our church live past 100 years as a growing and thriving church! You can do it!
Remember:
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
“God never sends you into a situation alone. God goes before you. He stands beside you. He walks behind you. Whatever situation you have right now, be confident, God is with you!” Deuteronomy 31:8
Now, what will you do with your chances?
July 31, 2021 - Daily Devotion
By: Ricky Andrews, Deacon
The Wizard of OZ
From a small child, one of my most favorite movies was and still is The Wizard of OZ. I loved watching how the movie started in black & white and progressed into color. I loved all the little people (Munchkins) and their colorful costumes and their songs such as Lollypop Guild, Ding Dong the Witch is Dead, and As Mayor of the land of OZ, but my most favorite characters are Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, Dorothy and ToTo to.
All the songs in the movie are great and don’t even tell me you don’t sing along with them all, but my favorites are Scarecrow’s If I Only Had a Brain, Tin Man’s If I Only Had a Heart, Cowardly Lion’s If I Only Had the Nerve and of course Dorothy’s Somewhere over the Rainbow.
Scarecrow wanted a brain. “I could think of things I never thunk before.” We all were given a brain to make our own decisions, sometimes good decisions, sometimes not so good decisions.
Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.”
Luke 10:27 “Love the Lord your God with all your mind.”
God gave us a brain, but do we always use it to the fullest?
Tin Man wanted a Heart. “I’d be tender, I’d be gentle and awful sentimental regarding Love and Art. If I only had a Heart.” Each and everyone of us have a heart but do we always show that we have love for one another and the Lord in our hearts.
Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your Heart.”
Proverbs 17:20 “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”
The Cowardly Lion wanted to be brave. “If I Only Had the Nerve.” The Cowardly Lion wanted everyone to think he was brave until he scared himself with his own tail. Do we have the courage to do God’s will and answer to his calling? Do we have the courage to say YES when volunteers are needed in our church?
Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, for the Lord your God goes with you and will never leave or forsake you.”
Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be discouraged.”
Dorothy only wanted to go home. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” She wanted to go back to Kansas but didn’t know how to get there. All along all she had to do was click her heels together three times and repeat “There’s No Place like Home.”
Matthew 6:33 “But seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.”
John 14:6 “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except though Me.”
Dorothy had to have the faith to believe that clicking her heels together 3 times would get her home.
Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
2 Corinthians 5:7 “We live by faith not by sight.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
The Scarecrow did get his brain, a degree in philosophy. The Tin Man got his heart, a ticking clock in a heart shape. The Cowardly Lion got his courage, a Metal of Courage and Dorothy was able to go home when she had the faith.
If we have a brain and use it, a heart and keep it full of love, and the courage to listen to God and do His will, and the faith to believe, then we will all be able to go to our Heavenly home in Christ.
The one group that I left out were the “Flying Monkeys” and the “Wicked Witch of the West.” I always worried about the “Flying Monkeys” swooping down and stealing my dog, and the “Wicked Witch of the West” reminded me of one of my schoolteachers. I now have faith that God will protect me forever, even from “Flying Monkeys”.
July 30, 2021 - Daily Devotion
Home is like a cake…
Greetings to you today from Aaron Johnson, Deacon of Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, NC. As deacons we are honored to serve our Facebook congregation as we assist Pastor Glen for a short period of time.
Home is a reminder of a cake…each person has a position or purpose, and all together make a joyful life. Five brothers and one sister on a tobacco farm and none broke any bones ‘til grown. I was born in 1929, no electricity ‘til 1940. I, being the baby, lots of times got hand-me-down clothes. There were no beatings or cursing, no alcohol, no hunger. Hard work, yes, but made to go to school and learn. One of us fed chickens, another fed the hogs, another the work teams, another milked the cows. There was wood to carry in for the cook stove, fireplace, or heaters (later on). There was always a struggle to survive and to make a living, yet my Daddy paid off his land debt during the 1930’s. Sundays were for Church and Sunday School followed by visiting, usually with relatives or friends. Lots of families had no transportation except by wagons or buggies on a dirt road or path. All of us together accomplished a very well-rounded family.
Life had a lot of ingredients like a cake has. God uses us to sweeten others’ lives; to give life a flavor that is unforgettable and that others may desire in their life so others can see, taste, and enjoy.
Jesus never said our life would be easy, He did say our burden would be light if we follow in his footsteps. In my 92 years I have seen that Jesus is faithful. May the Lord bless you!
Daily Devotion for July 29, 2021
July 29, 2021 Devotion for Baptist Tabernacle Church
By: Olivia Cooke, Deacon assisting Pastor Glen
Greetings from BTC, Wendell, NC.
Over the last few weeks in Sunday School, we have been studying the seven churches in Revelation 2-3. Each week asking ourselves, “Is this the church we want to be?”
The first church was Ephesus, The Loveless Church. “But I have this against you: you have abandoned the love you had at first.” Rev 2:4 Serving the Lord must be out of obedience and love for others and God – not a ritual or tradition.
The second church was Smyrna, The Persecuted Church. “I know your affliction and poverty.” Rev 2:9 Today’s churches face persecution in different ways, but we still see Christians willing to die smuggling bibles into remote areas and being killed.
The third church was Pergamos, The Compromising Church. “Repent or else I will come to you quickly.” Rev 2:16 The church compromised by becoming like those around them, letting false Gods enter in and not letting go of the worldly things.
The fourth church was Thyatira, The Corrupt Church. “I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance. Nevertheless, you tolerate Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants.” Rev 2:19-20 They showed love and faithfulness but let in false teachings.
The fifth church was Sardis, The Dead Church. “I know your deeds, you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.” Rev 3:1 They were alive but spiritually dead, relying on the past, complacent.
The sixth church was Philadelphia, The Faithful Church. “Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” Rev 3:11 They remained true to His word and did not deny Jesus.
The seventh church was Laodicea, The Lukewarm Church. “Because you are lukewarm – neither hot nor cold – I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Rev 3:16 They were a church of wealth that relied on self rather than God.
We the people ARE the church, so which one is YOUR church? Loveless, persecuted, compromised, corrupt, dead, faithful, lukewarm? Let us all be much in prayer for our churches of today as we all face such challenging times.
Daily Devotion for July 28, 2021
Devotion for Baptist Tabernacle Church, July 28, 2021
Lou Holland Carroll, Deacon
God is in Control
In March, 2019 I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. The mere word “Cancer” threw me into a tailspin. A whirlwind of information was being thrown at me. Let’s not forget “Dr. Google’s” input. There were multiple appointments with doctors, nurses and more medical tests. The surgeon’s first words were “Lumpectomy and a little Radiation; Easy Peasy.” Okay, we’ve got this.
After an MRI, genetic testing and a biopsy; the choice became a mastectomy or two, chemotherapy and/or radiation. Not so “Easy, Peasy”!!! My mind was “flopping around like a chicken with its head chopped off.” Those of you raised on a farm have a clear recollection of that picture. Mama preferred method was wringing the neck and dropping the bird on the ground. There was plenty of screaming and running around as we thought sure that chicken was after us.
“Be Still and know that I am God…” Psalms 46:10
This bible verse has gotten me through many crises (I looked it up that’s right). What does it mean?
“Be Still,” Literally stop flitting around, be calm, let your mind reflect on God. Pray, ask others to pray for you, and read your Bible. Listen for the still, small voice.
“and Know” God has promised to take care of our needs and share our burdens. Stop doubting. Have faith.
“that I am God.” God is all Mighty. God is my hope, rock and fortress. God is my Shepherd-He will lead me, nourish me, protect me and restore me. God is in control.
We will all face trials that put us right in the eye of a storm. Remember, there is a balm that only God can provide. Seek “The Peace that surpasses all understanding. That means that no matter our circumstances, whether we are facing death, torture, arrest or ridicule; we will be able to handle it in stride. Our faith in God dispels fear and conquers the evil one, leaving us content in whatever life brings.” From Jessica Brodie, www.Christianity.com
I am healthy. Thank you, Lord.