"BE PASSIONATE!!"
March 29 “Be Passionate!” Colossians 3:23
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” (Colossians 3:23)
While we were in the High Country, last week, I was listening to a program that had a moderator and two individuals that were presented as “experts” in their respected positions, on the issues being discussed. I was casually watching the program, until one of the “experts” declared that Men could be Women, and that Women could be Men! The basic discussion was centered on the “Trans-Male” competing as a woman, in NCAA college swimming. One “expert” was appalled that anyone would question the legitimate right of this individual that identified as a woman, to compete against women that are actually, biological women! Wow! Friends, this is where we are in our country! This is one more slam at the fundamental and basic order that God created! When we have a debate about the basic biological reality of Male and Female, and the idea that there could be an unlimited number of gender possibilities, then we are on a slippery slope towards absolute and undeniable collapse, both morally and physically! The one panelist, that was representing the multiple gender notion, was passionate and articulate and had just the right words to defend and promote her side of the argument! I was impressed with her passion; yet appalled at her message! What in the world is going on! Listen Church, it is time that we stopped playing! It is time that we stopped acting like these “Crazy” happenings are going on somewhere else! They are at our Front Door!! It is time that we became passionate about our Jesus! It is time that we stand up for what is right and what is just and edifying to our Savior! It is time that we got serious about living for Him! The “Half-Hearted,” and “Lukewarm” level of Service is not going to be enough! Revelation 3:15-16 tells us plainly, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” Are you passionate about Jesus and His Message of Hope and Redemption and Grace? Are you living your life, for Jesus, in a manner that reflects His Grace and Forgiveness, in your own life, and a passion that can be seen by all that you encounter? Listen, we are noy going to change the “march of evil” that Satan has devised for humanity, however, we can help change the lives of those that are being exposed to this evil, and insane, thoughts and behaviors! Please live your Christian Life with Passion! A Passion for sharing Jesus – A Passion for Lost Souls – A Passion to make a difference in this “tidal wave” of unbridled evil that is sweeping our nation!!! Jesus is the answer to all of the evils of this world! WE MUST BE ABOUT THE FATHER’S BUSINESS!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
BIRTHDAYS FOR MARCH 28, 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:
CHRISTIN BROWN
CATHERINE BAILEY
ETHAN WALTERS
BEING RESPONSIBLE
March 28 Being Responsible 1 Timothy 5:8
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church! “But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” (1 Timothy 5:8)
When did it become the responsibility of others to take care of me and my family? When did it become acceptable to blame others for my decisions and the consequences of those decisions? Growing up in an environment of “Personal Responsibility,” I find it difficult to understand the tendency of others to blame their race, or gender or geography or anything else for their situations and their own decisions! My Daddy witnessed and experienced abuse by his father and he was brought up in an orphanage, where he was required to work for his “Keep!” My Mother grew up in extreme poverty and, yet she was taught “Personal Responsibility!” Folks, every one of us have “Issues,” and every one of us have challenges. We must take responsibility for our own actions and issues and be responsible!! “You are responsible for your own actions and do not blame others for your mistakes!” I heard these words constantly, especially when I attempted to blame others for my own bad decisions and actions. Mama would tell me that “Personal Responsibility” is not an option in the Brock household! When I think back, I have always been taught to take responsibility for myself and to not depend on others to provide for my needs. Daddy taught me to always have a watch, a pocketknife (today, if I were in grade school, I would be suspended, or worse!), a pen and a pocket handkerchief! As I observe the culture of “Blame,” that has overtaken our land, and seems to be the “Norm,” I am saddened to see entire generations that are settling for “Mediocrity!” God has promised “Abundance” and that requires “Responsible Living!” Blaming others for your issues and for your position in life is not productive. Each one of us has the responsibility to take care of our own needs and the needs of our families! Amazingly, our government has promoted this “Dependency” mentality, of assistance and victimhood, and has created this “Dependent” culture. “It is my race, my gender, my environment, my stature, my age, my parents, my nationality, that has caused all of my difficulties…It is not my fault!” Folks, my God does not discriminate, and my God does not see color, gender, nationality, or any other earthly dividing line. God, in His Great Love, expects all of us to have and to exercise Personal Responsibility and Personal Integrity, in our living. I am so grateful that my parents instilled in my life, the need to be “Dependent” on God and to be “Independent” in my personal life!! Satan is using every tool available to deceive and divide folks into believing that they are victims and that their only hope is in this world and its facilities. Keep in mind, the only “Dependence” that Christians need is our “Dependence” on God and His Promises, found in the pages of His Holy Word! I have done a poor job of expressing this vital message, however, please focus on God’s power and direction, and do not blame others for your lot in life! Live above the circumstances and claim victory in your “Dependence” on Almighty God… Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!! (Re-Posted with a Purpose)
BIRTHDAYS FOR MARCH 27, 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:
COLTON NARRON
KELSEY BUNN
TRUDY PAUL (In Heaven)
HE Knows Best!!!
March 27 HE Knows Best! Proverbs 3:5
ANNOUNCEMENT: Just a reminder all Church Members! We are making a new church directory and are encouraging all church members to sign up to get your picture made for the directory. The benefit for you is that you get an 8 x 10 portrait absolutely free, and a church directory, if you get your picture made for the directory. Picture dates are April 13, 14, and 15 (FULL)… New Date is April 20. Pictures will be taken in the Family Ministry Center by professional photographers that work for Universal Church Directories. To sign up you can do one of the following:
1. Go to ucdir.com, click the "Photography Appointment Scheduling Login" button. Enter the church code nc436 and church password photos. Then follow the instructions to sign up.
2. Call the church office at 919-365-5558 between 9 and 12, Monday thru Friday and ask the Church Secretary to sign you up.
3. Someone will sign you up on Sunday Morning in the Education Building, Assembly Room prior to Sunday School and directly after Church.
The more families that sign up, the better the church directory will be. Please sign up! If you are not a member, and have been attending our worship experiences, please have your picture included in the new directory! We want a complete and accurate directory of all the church members.
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)
A few years ago, while on 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!
BIRTHDAYS FOR MARCH 26, 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY (In Heaven) FREDDIE BATTEN
THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE
March 26 “The Truth Shall Set You Free” John 8:32
ANNOUNCEMENT: Just a reminder all Church Members! We are making a new church directory and are encouraging all church members to sign up to get your picture made for the directory. The benefit for you is that you get an 8 x 10 portrait absolutely free, and a church directory, if you get your picture made for the directory. Picture dates are April 13, 14, and 15. Pictures will be taken in the Family Ministry Center by professional photographers that work for Universal Church Directories. To sign up you can do one of the following:
1. Go to ucdir.com, click the "Photography Appointment Scheduling Login" button. Enter the church code nc436 and church password photos. Then follow the instructions to sign up.
2. Call the church office at 919-365-5558 between 9 and 12, Monday thru Friday and ask the Church Secretary to sign you up.
3. Someone will sign you up on Sunday Morning in the Education Building, Assembly Room prior to Sunday School and directly after Church.
The more families that sign up, the better the church directory will be. Please sign up! If you are not a member, and have been attending our worship experiences, please have your picture included in the new directory! We want a complete and accurate directory of all the church members.
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “The Truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)
Several months ago, I reminded you of the saying of my mother. Mama used to say that; “The Truth is the Truth, and it will stand when the world is on fire!” In today’s world, the value of absolute truth is fading away. You can see it happening, as people are doing what they think is right in their own eyes and are not following the absolute truth of God’s Holy Word. Truth has become a flexible ideal, with the “if it feels good, do it” mentality. This world is in a “Spiritual Bondage” and those who choose to walk in the lie of Satan are forgetting the words of Jesus, found in John’s Gospel. “If you abide in My Word, you are my Disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free!” (John 8:31-32). The world may deny the absolute truth of God, however, as born-again children of God, we must realize that this promise, this foundation of truth, is our strength to face the challenges of living and it is our responsibility to live for Jesus, obeying the standards that have been established, in His Holy Word. He promised, that if, we will follow His Truth, He will set us free from the bondage of sin. We need to study His Word and we need to live His Word, every single day. Folks, by walking in His Truth, according to His Holy Scriptures, and walking in obedience to His Calling, we are promised that we will have Spiritual Freedom. His Love for us, His Plan for Humanity, His Gift of Grace, are ABSOLUTE TRUTHS, and we must embrace His Gift, and live it every day! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE! (Re-Print with a Purpose)
BIRTHDAYS FOR MARCH 25, 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:
PAUL BROWN, JR
ANGELA GILMORE
FAITH
March 25 FAITH!!! 1 Peter 1:8-9
ANNOUNCEMENT: Just a reminder all Church Members! We are making a new church directory and are encouraging all church members to sign up to get your picture made for the directory. The benefit for you is that you get an 8 x 10 portrait absolutely free, and a church directory, if you get your picture made for the directory. Picture dates are April 13, 14, and 15. Pictures will be taken in the Family Ministry Center by professional photographers that work for Universal Church Directories. To sign up you can do one of the following:
1. Go to ucdir.com, click the "Photography Appointment Scheduling Login" button. Enter the church code nc436 and church password photos. Then follow the instructions to sign up.
2. Call the church office at 919-365-5558 between 9 and 12, Monday thru Friday and ask the Church Secretary to sign you up.
3. Someone will sign you up on Sunday Morning in the Education Building, Assembly Room prior to Sunday School and directly after Church.
The more families that sign up, the better the church directory will be. Please sign up! If you are not a member, and have been attending our worship experiences, please have your picture included in the new directory! We want a complete and accurate directory of all the church members.
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “… whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:8-9)
As Born-Again Believers, we are called to “walk by Faith, not by Sight!” The Scriptures clearly defines Faith, in Hebrews 11:1, as the “Substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen!” Think about it… The First-Century Christians followed Jesus Christ, even though the reality of their decisions brought rapid and violent torture and persecution, and even death, yet they continued! Throughout the centuries, committed Believers have faced horrible persecutions and violent deaths, yet, remained faithful to their beliefs! What has driven believers to stand strong, in the face of evil and violent persecutions? The secret, that the world does not recognize, is their FAITH!! PRAISE GOD, Faith has the power to allow true believers to press on through the darkest and terrible days, that one could imagine! Think about the Faithful examples of the past! Abraham was faithful, and his faith empowered him to go through the years, anticipating the fulfillment of God’s promise for him and his heirs! Faith propelled Noah to remain faithful, and to complete his mission, toiling without anyone around him that believed, and with no reason to continue, except his faith in the promise of God! Faith empowered a country preacher to pray for the salvation of his brother, for 40 years, and, by faith, his brother did receive Jesus Christ as Savior, and it was by faith that caused his son to believe and to receive Jesus! (I asked my daddy how he was so confident about my uncle’s salvation, and he told me that he could see it…Wow!) Friends, FAITH is the Fuel that empowers Believers to claim Jesus and to be fortified to face the circumstances of this life! Just as Peter told his fellow believers, that, someday, they would see Jesus, and that fact enables us to push through the challenges of life and overcome situations and to navigate through the persecutions, with an unwavering hope that this world cannot see! (GOD IS always faithful TO us!) Through our God-Given FAITH, we persevere, through the challenges, and continue to proclaim Jesus and to express our genuine FAITH! True and committed FAITH, will always bring PRAISE, HONOR, and GLORY to Our GOD and to HIS SON, JESUS! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
TRUE TOLERANCE
March 24 True Tolerance Matthew 24:11
~ Selective Outrage is an indication of attitude, motivations, and Political Ideology! In the summer of 2020, there were riots, lootings, fires that burned down government buildings, police station overran by armed thugs, and people died as a result, yet barely a “burp” from the mainstream media outlets and scarcely a comment by politicians! January 6, 2021, the Capitol Building was overrun by a mixture of radicals and observers, that were upset about the results of an election. No Fires were started, nothing was burned to the ground, however, in both cases, the law was violated and there should have been justice for all, but the riots and looting of 2020 barely made the news, yet, the January 6 invasion of the Capitol became the “Worst Thing in American History!” Satan’s method of deception is evident and blatantly displayed for all to see! Sadly, ever so sadly, there are those in sheep’s clothing that are excited about “Right being Wrong and Wrong being Right!” PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, DO NOT BE DECEIVED! ~ WRONG IS WRONG & RIGHT IS RIGHT… ALWAYS HAS BEEN AND ALWAYS WILL BE!!
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And many false prophets shall rise and shall deceive many.” (Matthew 24:11)
Deception is an age-old method, used by Satan to thwart the cause of Christ and to further the influence of evil and chaos! I have attempted to understand how an individual can profess to be a Christian yet espouse thoughts and beliefs that are absolutely opposed to the clear and unmistakable teachings of God’s Holy Word! I have struggled with the idea of judging other’s actions, in light of God’s Word, yet I find myself questioning the motives of one that will claim the redeeming power of Jesus and express disdain for His expressed standards of right and wrong. As I grow in His Grace, I understand the challenges of being that “Light” in this dark, confused, and Satan driven World. God’s Word teaches that there are those that will have the appearance of righteousness yet will be in the business of deception and thwarting the cause of Christ! Remember the “Wheat & Tares?” How about the “Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing?” Am I to be concerned with the inconsistent witness of one that claims one thing and acts another? I cannot change that situation; however, I can worship, read, pray, and grow my “Light” into the Brightest Glow that is possible, and overshadow the darkness of the inconsistent light of deception and evil! Romans 12:18 tells us, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” Listen, this does not mean that we must agree with them, nor do we have to validate their thoughts, actions, attitudes, and behaviors! We are required to be witnesses for Christ, continue to grow in our relationship, and to be BRIGHT LIGHTS in this Evil and Dark Sinful World! Concentrate on your relationship with God, and Pray for your neighbors and friends, that they would do the same! I continue to recognize that I am a stranger in a foreign land, and I am ok! You see, I am the Son of a King, who is not moved by the world. For my God is with me and He goes before me, I do not fear, because I am His! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
ANNOUNCEMENT
Please share this important information. We are attempting to include all of our members and regular attendees. I look forward to having a new pictorial record of our church family and the amazing God-Centered Activities of our Fellowship!
In His Love,
Pastor Glen
ANNOUNCEMENT: Just a reminder all Church Members! We are making a new church directory and are encouraging all church members to sign up to get your picture made for the directory. The benefit for you is that you get an 8 x 10 portrait absolutely free, and a church directory, if you get your picture made for the directory. Picture dates are April 13, 14, and 15. Pictures will be taken in the Family Ministry Center by professional photographers that work for Universal Church Directories. To sign up you can do one of the following:
1. Go to ucdir.com, click the "Photography Appointment Scheduling Login" button. Enter the church code nc436 and church password photos. Then follow the instructions to sign up.
2. Call the church office at 919-365-5558 between 9 and 12, Monday thru Friday and ask the Church Secretary to sign you up.
3. Someone will sign you up on Sunday Morning in the Education Building, Assembly Room prior to Sunday School and directly after Church.
The more families that sign up, the better the church directory will be. Please sign up! If you are not a member, and have been attending our worship experiences, please have your picture included in the new directory! We want a complete and accurate directory of all the church members.
BIRTHDAYS FOR MARCH 23, 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:
NICHOLAS WHITE
EDNA WHITLEY (In Heaven)
ADVERTISING FOR CHRIST
March 23 “Advertising for Christ” Matthew 5:16
ANNOUNCEMENT: Just a reminder all Church Members! We are making a new church directory and are encouraging all church members to sign up to get your picture made for the directory. The benefit for you is that you get an 8 x 10 portrait absolutely free, and a church directory, if you get your picture made for the directory. Picture dates are April 13, 14, and 15. Pictures will be taken in the Family Ministry Center by professional photographers that work for Universal Church Directories. To sign up you can do one of the following:
1. Go to ucdir.com, click the "Photography Appointment Scheduling Login" button. Enter the church code nc436 and church password photos. Then follow the instructions to sign up.
2. Call the church office at 919-365-5558 between 9 and 12, Monday thru Friday and ask the Church Secretary to sign you up.
3. Someone will sign you up on Sunday Morning in the Education Building, Assembly Room prior to Sunday School and directly after Church.
The more families that sign up, the better the church directory will be. Please sign up! If you are not a member, and have been attending our worship experiences, please have your picture included in the new directory! We want a complete and accurate directory of all the church members.
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
During my extended retail career, I experienced many competitors that would advertise products that they didn’t have, nor were they going to sell those products. Many were creating the wrong impression, about the products, just to lure folks into their stores. I have always thought that this was a sad and deceptive practice, and it usually ends in disappointment. This reminds me of a poem that Daddy used to make a point about impressions. It is called, “The Lion and the Rabbit.” “A lion met a tiger as they drew beside a pool, Said the tiger, ‘Tell me why you’re roaring like a fool.’
‘That’s not foolish,’ said the lion with a twinkle in his eyes. ‘They call me King of all Beasts because I advertise.’
A rabbit heard them talking and ran home with a streak; he thought he’d try the lion’s plan, but his roar was just a squeak.
A fox came to investigate – Had luncheon in the woods, so when you advertise, my friend, be sure you’ve got the goods!”
The Lord commands us to “advertise,” “Go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature…” Jesus Christ tells us, in our passage for today, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.” In the secular world, advertising is used to draw attention to a product or a service and there are various methods for that purpose. We live in an age in which most of the peoples may be experiencing “Brainwashing,” due to so much false advertising. Could it be possible, that in the Spiritual World, that there is “False Advertising?” Saying that we are one thing and acting like another. Why Advertise? We do it to attract people to our products, services, or ideas. In the Christian Life, advertising is essential to honor God’s Calling. Unfortunately, there are many that label themselves as Christian, but their lives indicate “False Advertising!!” If an investigation were made of your life, as a Christian, could you be sued for “False Advertisement?” Christ told us to go and lift Him up as the Key to Eternal Life in Heaven, but perhaps we have lifted-up other things. What a shame!! There are those that will spend their entire life lifting-up the wrong things, maybe leading folks into a religious circle of activities, yet never leading them to “CHRIST!!” Several months ago, I wrote a devotion called, “Old Time Religion,” and I truly believe that we need to keep it fresh and vital before folks and allow the Spirit of God to draw them into His Saving Grace! Remember this? “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men to Me.” True Advertising…Here Are the Facts: When this lost and decaying world sees that we love when we are hated, and that we return good for evil, then they will surely know, as we speak boldly for Jesus Christ, that He has the Power to Change Hearts and Lives! Believer, because of your truthful advertising, the sinner will know that you are acquainted with the ONE who has the kind of Power that they need to live a life that is pleasing to God! Please Dear Lord; let our advertising be true and effective! TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… Remember, THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES FOR MARCH 22, 2023
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:
CARL CREECH
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO:
JAMES & CALLIE FERRELL
EYES ON JESUS
March 22 Eyes on Jesus Ephesians 1:18
ANNOUNCEMENT: Just a reminder all Church Members! We are making a new church directory and are encouraging all church members to sign up to get your picture made for the directory. The benefit for you is that you get an 8 x 10 portrait absolutely free, and a church directory, if you get your picture made for the directory. Picture dates are April 13, 14, and 15. Pictures will be taken in the Family Ministry Center by professional photographers that work for Universal Church Directories. To sign up you can do one of the following:
1. Go to ucdir.com, click the "Photography Appointment Scheduling Login" button. Enter the church code nc436 and church password photos. Then follow the instructions to sign up.
2. Call the church office at 919-365-5558 between 9 and 12, Monday thru Friday and ask the Church Secretary to sign you up.
3. Someone will sign you up on Sunday Morning in the Education Building, Assembly Room prior to Sunday School and directly after Church.
The more families that sign up, the better the church directory will be. Please sign up! If you are not a member, and have been attending our worship experiences, please have your picture included in the new directory! We want a complete and accurate directory of all the church members.