Perilous Times ARE Here

 April 23   “Perilous Times ARE Here”     2 Timothy 3:1-7

**Observe the issues of the present day! This world is rushing into complete abandonment of standards of decency and any moral foundations! Stay Alert, Stay Focused, Stay Strong… JESUS IS COMING SOON! **

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”  (2 Timothy 3:1-7)

Wow! Timothy’s words are describing the times in which we live, right now, today! Observing the overwhelming onslaught of “Evil” and “Debase” thoughts and activities, that are permeating the land, I am amazed at the “brazen” display of Satanic Evil and twisted thinking that seems to be the “rule” for the “Elite” of our “Leadership” class! Violence and personal destruction seem to be the “rule,” in the inner cities of America! I understand that last weekend, over 30 people were shot in Chicago, and I believe that 7 individuals lost their lives! We hear about the necessity to “Educate our Children,” and the responsibility to ensure that they are competitive on the “world stage,” yet the push, related to education, is to present to children in Kindergarten through Third Grade, the idea of choosing, or at least being aware that they can choose their sexuality! AT 5 YEARS OLD? REALLY? And this doesn’t seem to be an issue with so many people!!! The notion that parents do not have control over their children’s education, and when they question the governing boards, then the Attorney General of the United States, labels them as “Domestic Terrorists!” WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO COMMON SENSE? Please understand that I recognize that some will be offended that I am pointing out the obvious, and they support these issues, but please recognize my right to disagree! Walking in His Obedience, and following the dictates of the Holy Scriptures, I am obligated and required to “Love,” even the ones that I absolutely disagree with, yet it is troubling that, those that I perceive as fellow believers, can and do support these “radical” behaviors and thought processes, with little or no regard for the “STANDARDS FOR BEHAVIOR,” called the Holy Bible! Satan id having a “Field Day,” even in the churches of America! Here is the message of TRUTH for today! Evil exists, Insanity continues, Right has become wrong and wrong has become right, people will be deceived, there will be a “form of godliness,” yet only to mislead and to promote the cause of Satan! Dear Friends, the reality of 21st century life is this: EVIL EXISTS, BUT GOD HAS PROMISED VICTORY THROUGH THE BLOOD OF JESUS AND WE MUST STAY TRUE TO HIS WORD AND WE MUST WALK IN OBEDIENCE, REGARDLESS OF THE TRIALS, OPPOSITION, AND WHATEVER SATAN SENDS OUR WAY! Just recently, I was in a conversation with a fellow believer, and we were having a wonderful chat about the blessings of God and the beauty of His Grace. Somehow, he moved the conversation to politics, and the “wheels came off of the wagon!” Oh, my goodness! This fellow believer that had just spoken some of the most encouraging and inspiring words about the power of God and His purpose for mankind, transformed before my eyes! Immediately, he became “someone else.” His language and his tone became rough, and the message was, almost, in coherent. He began to tell me of my “Intolerance” and my “Hatred” of the issues that he was proclaiming! Keep in mind, he just assumed that I felt the way that he thought, and he was unwilling to be “Tolerant” of what he thought that I might be thinking! I was saddened by this display, and I was momentarily speechless! Could this be happening? Well, I gathered myself together and I looked at this man that I have respected and admired, and I quoted 2 Timothy 3 to him. Wow! This really did fire him up! There were 2 others at the table, and one of the men spoke to him, and he turned his venom towards this man! “What is going on with you?” This was the question for the man! The three of us got up and left the restaurant, and we did not speak of what had just happened! On my journey to WakeMed, I was saddened and at the same time joyous! Why this story? Because we are living in “PERILOUS TIMES!” We are living in a time when, even publicly professing believers, are being used by Satan to thwart and twist the Word of God and the reality of HIS Grace and Glory! Be aware of the issues of the day, be aware of the evil that is around, be aware of the “Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing,” and continue to serve God! “It is what it is!!!” I just had to share this! Wow! The reality of evil is all around us! Armor up – Pray up – Study up – Continue to share the Good News…Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES FOR APRIL 22, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

DIANNE BAGGETT

HANNAH DRIVER

JENNENE FAULKNER (In Heaven)

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO:

CHRISTOPHER & CHRISTIN BROWN

PRAYING ALWAYS

April 22             Praying Always…     1 Chronicles 16:11

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… ““Seek the LORD and His strength, seek His face continually.” (1 Chronicles 16:11)

We were in the mountains of North Carolina, a few years ago, with the purpose of renewal and refreshing. The past several weeks had taken its toll on me, and I was just going through the motions, with no power and enthusiasm and my prayer life was suffering. It was one of those times when I had placed everything in front of Prayer Time and was just casually engaging in prayer. Annette said, “We need some down time!” She has a God-Given ability to discern when I am about to “Burn Out!” So, to the mountains we went! We enjoyed going to various “flea markets” around the local area, and this trip was no different. In one of the stores, I spotted a pair of roller skates that you put over your shoes and I purchased them. My mind went back to those days of my youth, and I could envision me skating around the carport as soon as we returned to the house. Sure enough, I put the skates on, tightened the skates, with the key, and stood upright. Ok, all is well! So, I slowly eased off from the spot where I stood. Thoughts of my agility and my joy in skating came rushing into my mind, and as quickly as it entered, it exited. The thoughts of my youthful skill and pleasure of skating were quickly replaced with the reality that I was falling! Sure enough, my knees met the concrete and my, not so youthful body, told my mouth to groan! As I removed the skates and tossed them into the bushes, I realized that, if I was going to enjoy skating, I would have to do it more often, maybe, even every day, in order, to receive the joy that I had remembered. As I was sitting on the cold concrete, I had a moment of clarity! If I expected my Prayer Life to be fulfilling and effective, and if I were to receive the Power to serve God and to obey His commands, then, I, like this skating, need to do it more often! If I wanted my relationship with God to be more meaningful and if I wanted to serve Him in the Power of the Holy Spirit, then I was going to have to pray “Constantly!” I got up, dug the skates from the bushes, and told myself, “I’ll skate some more tomorrow, but right now, I am going to pray!” Every time that I have sags or down times, spiritually, it is because I fail to “Seek the LORD and His Strength!” PRAISE GOD! He has shown me that the Power that I operate in; is activated, at its greatest effectiveness, when I am constantly in prayer! The more that I pray, the stronger I become!! The stronger that I become, the more I need to Pray! How about you? Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE! (Re-posting with Purpose)

AS IT IS WRITTEN

April 21    “As It Is Written…”           1 Corinthians 2:9

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

We are living in some intense darkness, and satanic ignorance. There is the stench of evil that permeates the very air that we breathe! The idea that children should be taught about variations of sexuality, and the idea that young children should be indoctrinated into making a choice about their sexuality, in kindergarten, or the idea that a nation would prosecute a Christian for proclaiming God’s Holy Word, and define this act, as “Hate Speech!” Really! It amazes me that the world, and all of its mysteries and all of its opportunities for evil, are still seeking the answers to the unrest within their souls, and the answer to all of the issues of life are found in the abundant life that is in the shed blood of Jesus! Sin has blinded their eyes and as insulated them from the transforming truth of Jesus Christ. Despair, lawlessness, insanity, lack of basic common sense, violence, malaise, and a host of sin produced issues, has a true and permanent solution! The sad and dreary existence can be transformed into the vibrant and bold display of His Hope and Joy! Please do not be deceived by the glitz and glitter of this sinful world but open your eyes to the Grace and Glory of the only Begotten Son of God! Because of His Grace, I am an OVERCOMER! Because of His Love, I can share this Love with others, Because of His Provision, I am able to life in this world and not be tainted by its nasty and sinfulness! I am excited about the future! I am confident about the outcome! Listen again… “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” Please Lord, open our eyes that we may see, and open our ears that we may hear, and open our hearts that we may be full, and prepare us for the blessings, as we serve You, in the beauty of Your Holiness! TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

OUR FOCUS

April 20             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, 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 (the beginnings of the COVID 19 Pandemic), I have been encouraging others to Stay Focused…Focused on God’s Word, God’s Will, and God’s Power and Provisions. It is ABSOLUTELY IMPERITAVE THAT WE 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!! (Re-Post with a Purpose!)

LISTENING

April 19             “Listening…”             Psalm 89:15

Good afternoon from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.”  (Psalm 89:15)

Many years ago, someone decided that we would surprise one of our neighbors with a community wide birthday party for one of the men in our community that was always helping and doing something for someone else.  The idea was that several folks would flag him down, as he drove home, and redirect him to the church fellowship hall.  Sounded like a great idea, however, as he was driving home, this band of individuals appeared out of nowhere and began to flag him down, but his reaction was not expected.  The crowd was yelling and waving their hands, yet he did not stop.  Finally, he caught sight of his grandson, and he stopped.  Once he was stopped and got out of his car and inquired about why they were flagging him down, he was informed that the entire community was gathered at the fellowship hall for a surprise birthday celebration, just for him.  That is when we discovered why he didn’t stop initially.  He was listening to “Beach Music,” and he was playing it very loud, and he was in deep thought about days gone by and he simply ignored the sounds of our yelling and waving our hands. When he arrived at the hall, he stepped inside and he spoke these words, “I almost missed all of this, because I was listening to the wrong thing!”  As I have pondered the implications of this event, and his words, it has made me stop and think.  Am I listening to the wrong sounds? Am I concentrating on the sounds of the world and missing the sound of my Lord speaking to me?  The scriptures warn us to: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1 Peter 5:8) … We need to be alert, and we need to be listening for the sounds of our Heavenly Father and not the constant droning of this world and the evil, distracting sounds that exist.  God is constantly speaking to us and guiding us, so we need to be “Listening” to His Call!  Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

Do You TRUST GOD?"

April 18    “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 actually have 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… 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!

ANCHOR DEEP

April 17       “Anchor Deep”               Hebrews 6:19

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain…” (Hebrews 6:19)

Life in 21st century America is interesting. The population is demonstrating a lack of moral standards and those things that have been “wrong” for centuries, are now being deemed appropriate! Just yesterday, in a conversation with a young couple, they were professing their disdain for individuals that would share their beliefs with others. I pointed out that that was the standard for sharing information, whether we agree with it or not! Amazingly, the conversation turned to me, and my profession (calling). The young lady boldly stated that I was a part of the problem in our land! She continued to let me know that I needed to be more tolerant of others and their views, even though I might disagree! Wow! Really? My response was direct yet attempting to be “loving!” I said, “Why is it that the opinions that you declare are to be accepted, without question, yet the good news that I share is viewed as “hate speech” and is in direct conflict with the idea of being able to share your thoughts without question or criticism?” She was unable to articulate a response and she immediately instructed her partner to leave this man alone! Again, Wow! Folks, as believers, we are going to encounter those that believe that their “unholy” and “sinful” ways are the standard and that, if you question their ways and words, you are, either intolerant or discriminatory! Praise God! He told us in His word that the world would hate us and would resist us and that we are to continue to boldly proclaim the Good News, regardless of the situations or conditions that exist!  It reminds me of the words of my daddy, when I would face challenges, as a young man. Daddy would remind me that my Hope comes from God and that I was to “Anchor Deep” in His Promises and His Love and His Provisions! Fellow Believer, we are in for a challenge as we live and share Jesus! We must recognize that our HOPE is in Him and that we Must Anchor Deep, in order to survive, and to thrive! TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR APRIL 16, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

APRIL ADAMS

LYNN BAILEY

TINA CREECH

LIVING WITH JOY IN THIS CHAOTIC WORLD

April 16   Living with JOY in this Chaotic World   Philippians 4:4

*******************************************

PRAISE GOD! We are Baptizing 2 more Souls today! God is STILL in the SAVING BUSINESS!!!

*******************************************

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice!”  (Philippians 4:4)

Every day, in every way, we are challenged by the sinfulness of this world! Every day, we must be ready to face the satanic forces that are determined to steal of joy and to alter our witness for Jesus. When our hearts are surrendered to HIM, and we are walking in HIS will, then we will see the path, forward, is a blessed pathway. When we accept HIS direction for our lives and we are living and claiming each new day as an opportunity to serve HIM and to Witness for HIM and to experience HIS True JOY, regardless of the circumstances! I understand that life can bring some difficult challenges, yet I am fully confident that HIS LOVE AND GRACE will allow us to walk in HIS JOY and PRESENCE, when our lives are in the Center of HIS WILL! Contrary to what some might think, Christianity was not meant to be something that brought misery and obstacles for living. The Christian Life is meant to be JOYFUL, and we are to “Walk in that JOY,” so that others can see JESUS in us, and we are to be EXAMPLES of HIS GRACE, in every situation! What a witness to this lost and dying world, when, we as Believers, face the challenges of this life, with a smile on our faces, and a song in our hearts, and with confidence for tomorrow! JOY is contagious! JOY is Powerful! JOY is a Blessing for the Believer! You see, JOY is one of the marks of a TRUE BELIEVER! We MUST claim HIS JOY, Walk in HIS JOY, Live within HIS JOY, and WITNESS to OTHERS, IN HIS JOY! Life is difficult, yet, with the PROMISES OF GOD, we Can and Will walk in His JOY, when we COMMIT to HIS WILL, and LIVE EACH DAY with the HOPE of HIS GLORY! My prayer is that others will see the JOY of CHRIST in my daily living! How About You? Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

DECEPTIONS

April 15        DECEPTIONS                  Romans 1:25-31

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Who changed the truth of God into a lie and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.  For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:  And likewise, also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.  And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,  Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,  Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:” (Romans 1:25-31)

Wow! We are witnessing the attempt to change the “right” into “wrong,” and the “Truth” into a “Lie!” I have thought, and others have inquired to me, with the question of how can individuals that profess a relationship with Jesus be in favor of and promote those things which are in direct opposition to God’s Word. The answer is simple! Their commitment is either false or nonexistent! 2 Timothy 3:2-8 tells us this truth… “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers’ lusts, ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.  Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.” Remember that there are those among us that have the appearance of godliness, yet they are far from the “Truth!” The reality is that there are those who are being used by Satan to thwart the cause of Christ and all we can do for them is to limit our time around them and PRAY that the HOLY SPIRIT will CONVICT them and cause them to turn from their wicked ways and to come to a “REAL” and “COMPLETE” SAVING EXPERIENCE through the GRACE OF GOD, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST!!! God WILL provide for our survival! God WILL protect us in our journey! It is up to us to remain faithful and to grow in our relationship with HIM! TO GOD BE THE GLORY! “I affirm that God’s power is rising in me, renewing, and healing my mind and body, bringing power to my mind, giving me success in my work. I affirm health, energy, enthusiasm, the joy of life. All of this I owe to my Savior, Jesus Christ. He has given me the VICTORY PRINCIPLE for which I thank HIM every single day!” “NOT TODAY, SATAN!  NOT TODAY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS TRULY AND COMPLETELY YET TO BE!!!! (Satan, the Great Deceiver, is active and productive in spreading lies and chaos. He is attacking the weakest point in our human existence, our children! Why is it proper to force our children to be exposed to “Gender Altering Rhetoric,” and to teach them about “Hate” and “Anti-Christian, Anti-Family” thoughts and behaviors, yet it is “Criminal” to teach our own children about decency, civility, and proper behavior, based on the Judeo-Christian Ethic? WAKE UP BELIEVERS!!! We are living in changing times and “RIGHT” is being altered to fit into a broad and destructive pattern of thought, while allowing the systematic destruction of an entire generation of young and vulnerable people! SHARE JESUS, AND HIS LOVE! It is the ONLY ANSWER TO THE EVIL OF THIS SATANIC DRIVEN WORLD!!!)

BIRTHDAYS/ANNIVERSARIES FOR APRIL 15, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AN AMAZING MAN, MR. H.E. EDWARDS! God Bless You! In His Love, Pastor Glen

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN ADAMS! May You Have Many More!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO BRANDON & SARA PEEBLES! May God Bless You, Today & Always!

BIRTHDAYS FOR APRIL 14, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

ASHTON CREECH

WHO CONTROLS YOUR LIFE?

April 14     Who Controls Your Life?        2 Corinthians 5:17

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina…“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”  (2 Corinthians 5:17)

A few days ago, I was engaged in a conversation with a group of gentlemen, as we gathered around, what I like to refer to as the “Hard-Head” table, of a local restaurant! As is the case, the subject turned to politics and religion! There will always be one that is the “mouth-piece” or, I might say, the Loudest, and he did not disappoint! He began to talk about the circumstances of the day, and he was, in no small way, defending the policies and procedures of the current political ruling class, and he was adamant about the politics, not his morality of the policies! Another man asked if he had considered the reality of the proclamation, considering his Christian beliefs. WOW! The sagely gentleman declared, with a loud and commanding voice, that he was fully aware of the politics of the questioning gentleman and that he would support this political position, regardless of what this other man had said. The one clear and overriding fact of reality became crystal clear, this man has formulated his “Opinion” and it has become his “Standard” for his living and he (just my observation and opinion) is willing to disregard his “faith” and his call to “holiness,” in order to continue to think and act, the way that he was taught, from his youth. You know the drill… “My Granddaddy thought this way, my Daddy thought this way, and nothing is going to change my thoughts!!” OK, so we have an individual that is governed by his politics, and he does not, nor does he consider his Christian faith, when it comes to the politics of the day! This is not Judgment, this is factual observation, that has always brought the question to my mind, “How can anyone, who claims to be a Follower of Christ, support those things that are in direct opposition to His Holy Word and that conflict with His Holy Standards? Folks, this is serious business! We are either for Him, or we are against Him! THERE IS NO MIDDLE GROUND!! Once again, the lack of Common Sense, I will go a step further and say, the Death of Common Sense, has made for some strange and sad ineffective witnesses for Christ! BOTTOM LINE: When you come to Jesus, by faith, and ask Him to save you and to allow the Holy Spirit to fill you, then you have a “NEW” focus and you have a “NEW” responsibility, and you MUST be what GOD expects! You see, it doesn’t matter how your granddaddy voted, nor does it matter how things used to be, it is about right now, and your commitment to Christ, and your relationship with Christ, and viewing the world situation through the eyes of Jesus, not a tradition! The gentlemen looked at me and asked what I thought about the issue, and I simply said, “We must live our lives as a reflection of His Love and His Grace, and anything that does not bring Honor to the Savior, then leave it alone!” Sadly, the man in question, stated boldly and defiantly, that he would never vote for the individual that best represented the cause of Christ…he said that he had never voted for one and his daddy had not, and he would die before he would support a particular political party and their candidate! Gently, I asked how he reconciled this position with his declared “Faith.” He was quick to tell me that “One has nothing to do with the other!” This Deacon and Community Leader made a quick exit and the conversation ended! BUT, the question has not ended…     WE ARE EITHER FOR HIM OR NOT! Friends, our private lives, our private thoughts, our political positions, MUST reflect the “Changed” condition of our NEW LIFE! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE think about the way that you live and the positions that you take and who it is that dictates your thoughts and actions! 2 Corinthians 5:17 sums up our position and opinions, in the light of Jesus! “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” LAST WORD…If you have claimed Jesus as your Savior and Lord, then ACT LIKE IT!!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR APRIL 13, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

AMY BOYKIN

DOLORES RENFROW

NO EXCUSES

April 13       NO EXCUSES              Galatians 6:7

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”  (Galatians 6:7)

Over the past several months, I have been attempting to assist a young man in his struggles with living. The talks that we have had, and the continual phone conversations, and the follow-ups are not producing results! The reason that there is a lack of change is simple! This amazing young man does not fully believe that he has a problem! The fact of the matter is that, if you don’t recognize and acknowledge the problem, then you don’t have a problem! This is true of individuals that I have shared Jesus with! If one is not lost (or does not recognize their lostness), then they cannot be “found!” I am observing this fact, being played out before our eyes, in our society! Just yesterday, there were 3 separate shootings, where people were hurt or killed, and the media, the leaders, the decision makers, are not acknowledging the problem or the communities where the majority of the issues are occurring! Sadly, young men and women are dying, yet we, as a society, are turning a blind eye to the violence, and not addressing the “real” and “factual” problem! (Side Note: If every gun, both handgun and long gun, were suddenly and immediately destroyed, violence would continue to occur! It is a “Sin” problem!) We can make excuses for the violence and the destruction of an entire generation of young people, but excuses do not solve the problem! Dear Friends, the problem is SIN! I fully understand that some will be offended by these words, and some will continue to deflect from the problem by declaring that this solution is discriminatory! Please understand, I am ready for humanity to recognize our sinfulness and I am ready to share the life-changing power of the shed blood of Jesus Christ, as the solution to our SIN problem! Unfortunately, I am unable to reach every living soul on this planet, however, I am committed to reaching all that it is humanly possible for me to reach! The scriptures are clear! Every one of us is sinners! Romans 3:23 tells us the truth… “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God!” The solution is simple, yet so difficult for humanity to recognize!  “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.” John 3:16 tells the truth about God’s desire for humanity! Friends, we are not going to be the catalyst for change for everyone, however, we MUST be the catalyst for change for as many as we can, for as long as we can, until He calls us home to be with Him in Heaven! This requires a proper relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, and the exercise of His Grace in every area of our lives and to be ready to assist others along this pathway that we call Life! NO EXCUSES…WE MUST BE ABOUT THE FATHER’S BUSINESS! The world will not recognize the sinfulness of humanity, but we can help, one soul at a time! LET’S GET BUSY MAKING A DIFFERENCE!!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES FOR APRIL 12, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO: (IN HEAVEN) BEVERLY BATTEN

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO:

FRED & PATSY COATES

"HIDE GOD'S WORD IN YOUR HEART, NOW!!!!"

April 12    “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 when 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!

BIRTHDAYS FOR APRIL 11, 2023

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

DAN GULLIFER

LINDA LEE

JOHNNY MACK

MARY ANN PADGETT

"VICTORY IN JESUS"

April 11   “VICTORY in My JESUS”    1 Corinthians 15:57

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”      (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Many years ago, I asked our Music Director, why she always seemed to select songs that were upbeat and cheerful and inspiring. Her answer was a “preachable moment” for me. She said, “when I think about worship and when I consider all that God has done for us, my heart is full and my joy overflows, and out of gratitude, I select songs that reflect the fact that I am ‘Thinking about God!’” It took a few years for me to understand the broader meaning of her words! The secret of real and lasting Joy, is to “THINK ABOUT GOD!” Regardless of the circumstances, “THINK ABOUT GOD!” Regardless of the worldly conditions, “THINK ABOUT GOD!” Every day of this life will bring struggles, conflicts and challenges and temptations, but the strength and power to overcome any and all issues is found in the Love of God, through our Savior, JESUS CHRIST! Because of God’s Love, and the Selfless Act at Calvary of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we are overcomers. Real and lasting Joy is found in the VICTORY IN JESUS! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS ABSOLUTELY AND WITHOUT DOUBT, YET TO BE! I BELIEVE IT, I CLAIM IT, I EXPECT IT, BECAUSE JESUS CHRIST PROMISED THAT IT WOULD BE SO!!!!!