BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES FOR AUGUST 21, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

KATHY WHEELER

BRENDA NARRON … aka… MY FAVORITE AUNTIE

MIKE BUNN

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO:

WESLEY & REBECCA DUNBAR

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 20, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

BAILEY LANE

God’s Rest Area

August 20         God’s Rest Area       Psalm 37:7

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.” (Psalm 37:7)

Every day brings new and intense challenges along this journey of life! Satan and his minions are constantly attacking our every move and attempting to create chaos and placing stumbling blocks in our path! There are times when we MUST Stop and Rest! Taking a moment to reflect and to regroup and to retool and re-arm is necessary if we are to be ready to take on Satan and his assaults! It has been one of the most challenging tasks for me! The idea of stopping and resting and reflecting and praying and simply focusing on God and His promises for a better tomorrow, has come slowly for me! I have always thought that I needed to be “doing” something for the Lord, however, being prepared to share His Love, and to promote His Promises, it requires me to be at my best, and being worn out and weary is a great position for Satan to attack! Resting is required! Focusing is necessary! Matthew 11:28-30 gives us a beautiful promise, when it instructs us to: Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” On those days when I feel that I must “work” for the Lord, and I am so weary that I have lost my focus, and the “Joy,” in service to God, is nowhere to be found, I understand the necessity to STOP, DROP, PRAY and to RE-FOCUS my efforts and allegiance to Almighty God! When I attempt to “do it on my own,” and realize that I am not physically, spiritually, or mentally prepared to handle the load, I realize the need to “Take on His Yoke and Allow Him to give me the True Rest that is needed to Serve Him with Gladness and to be what He expects me to be! So many times, fellow servants of God will tell me to take time to rest, and I am so grateful for their love and concern.” The common statement is true: “You can’t help others when you are not okay!” On this journey of life, take time to stop by God’s Rest Area to re-group, re-tool, re-focus and to allow Him to Energize you, both Physically and Spiritually! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…. THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 19, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

RYAN SCOTT

SCOTTY BATTEN

STOP, DROP, and PRAY!

August 19         STOP, DROP, and PRAY!            Psalm 37:7                

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.” (Psalm 37:7)

In this hectic, chaotic, and troubled world, we may experience the emptiness and the weariness that comes from dealing with the unrelenting challenges. Every thought and every action become labored, and our focus becomes less important, and the idea of just getting through to another day, becomes a daunting task! Every one of us have felt the challenges of living in this ugly world, as a Follower of Christ! It is critical that we remain focused on the reality of our Savior, and His ability to bring Joy into our humble existence, through the Empowering of the Blessed Holy Spirit! We MUST continue to grow closer and closer to our Savior, increasing His Refreshment for our souls, and to continually dwell in His Presence, recognizing our limitations, and Praising Him for His Wellspring of Grace, Joy and Provision! In those times when I fell overwhelmed, and the world is crowding in around me, and I feel as if I want to scream, that’s when I STOP, DROP, and PRAY, PRAY, PRAY! Regardless of the circumstances, challenges and the issues of the day, the most important fact, for me, is my growing and productive relationship with my Redeemer! If you are feeling a bit off, and you are in the middle of a stressful experience, STOP, DROP, and PRAY! Trust God to Do What He Said He Would Do! There is Rest and Refreshment in our ongoing relationship with our Savior! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 18, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

TIMOTHY HALE

“Go Ahead!”

August 18         “Go Ahead!”    Exodus 4:12

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say.”  (Exodus 4:12)

Have you ever been required to speak in front of a large crowd?  Have you ever been fearful of talking in front of a group?  If you have, then you are in the top ten of the most fearful things to do in the United States.  I think back to the days when I was petrified to speak in public.  My earliest recollections of the fear of speaking in front of a crowd was the time that Mrs. Carter, my Sunday School Teacher, had we children, recite a Bible Verse, before the entire congregation, on a Sunday Morning!  I remember clearly my response when I learned of her intent.  “Miss Carter, I can’t do this!”  She was always ready for a teachable moment, and she took advantage of this moment to share a story of another fellow that said that “he couldn’t!”  She told me of the struggle that Moses faced and the promise from God! She made me look up and read this scripture to her.  “Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say.”  She told me that God would be with me and provide what I needed to say when I needed to say it.  I did recite the scripture, and I was nervous, and I was “shaking in my boots,” but Miss Carter’s words and her faith in me, provided the “kick” that I needed to claim God’s provision and power and to “Stand up and Go Ahead!”  That event was 63 years ago, yet I still am a bit anxious when I speak before a crowd, and I am a bit anxious when I share Jesus with an individual.  When you speak up for Jesus, will you be nervous?  In all likelihood, the answer is yes!  Remember, ask God to replace your fears and concerns for the focus on Him and His words that you should say.  The Bottom Line:  Replace your Fears with Faith!  So, I leave you with the admonition from Mrs. Estelle Carter… “Go Ahead!”  With the exception of my parents, this precious lady had the greatest influence on my Spiritual Life and Actions!  As Believers, we are required and expected to share the Love of God, through Jesus Christ, with everyone that we encounter!  So, just “GO AHEAD!”  Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE! (Re-Posting)

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 17, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

NATALIE BAILEY

JESSIKA MADJAR

HE IS THE ONLY WAY!!!

August 17   HE IS THE ONLY WAY!!!         John 3:36

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”  (John 3:36)

Eternal Life is a reality for humanity! Every one of us will live forever, somewhere! For the Believer, Eternal Life is with our Savior, Jesus Christ! Eternal Life is in and about the Son, Jesus! Jesus Christ is not A way to God; HE IS THE ONLY WAY!!! He tells us that those who Believe in Him and Trust in Him and, by Faith, walk in His Way, that we will have Everlasting Life with Him! When we believe, confess our transgressions, ask Him to Save us, then a relationship is established with our Savior! This relationship should grow and mature as we navigate through this life! When we place our Faith and Trust and Hope, in Jesus Christ, for our forgiveness of sin, at that very moment, we begin to experience His Eternal Life! Remember John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Are you walking in relationship with the Savior? Are you growing in His Grace and His Provision, every day? Are you depending on His Promises and His Power to ensure our Eternal Place with Him in Heaven? “Forgive me, Lord, and please give me Your strength to overcome my own sin and human weaknesses and help me to live a life that is pleasing to YOU!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES FOR AUGUST 16, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

CLARA HOCUTT

ALLEN WILSON

BROOKE DILLON

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO:

TREVOR & OLIVIA MOSS

Fully Trusting ….

August 16         Fully Trusting ….                Proverbs 3:5-6

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Isn’t it a wonderful thing that we don’t have to figure everything out on our own! Do you ever feel like life is out of control and that you are unsure of the next move? Most of my life, I have heard from the world sources, that I need to be independent and self-sufficient. Amazingly, it does not work! My Hope, my Life is built on nothing less than Jesus’ Love and His Righteousness! When I Fully claim His provision, and Fully Embrace His Promises, then I am in position to allow Him to Guide Me, Teach Me, and for me to Fully Trust in Him! May God Help You To Trust in Him, and Find Peace and Rest in His Amazing Grace! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 15, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

MR. BILLY GODWIN

ANN ROUSE

ASHLEY SLEDGE

MR. DANNY HILL

Giving…

August 15         Giving…             Acts 20:35

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35)

From my earliest recollections, I was shown the need to be a “Giver.”  Mama was, absolutely, adamant that we should help the less fortunate and do it boldly and with conviction.  When anyone, and I mean, anyone, was down or in need, in our little community, Barbara was the first on the scene to help, in her special way.  When I think back, Mama was the “Original First Responder” for the Spring Bank Community!  I often think about the witness and the lessons that she taught me, even when she was just being “Barbara!”  I can hear her now, “Giving is better than receiving!”  I was truly convinced that my dear sweet mother had slipped her cog, yet, when I witnessed the joy that was hers when she would prepare one of her amazing meals or bake her famous “Carrot Cake,” or slip a few dollars to one in need, I saw the expression of satisfaction and completeness in my mother!  There were times that we were the needy, yet, for Mama, we were blessed, and we had a spiritual responsibility to honor God’s Word!  Mama was a living and working example of the scripture passage for today!  Dear Friends, we have a responsibility, to help one another and we are instructed to love one another, and we are expected to help the weak and less fortunate and we are to do it, not out of some obligation, but from a heart that is faithful and from a position of Obedience.  I am grateful for my “Living “example, of God’s meaning of “It is more blessed to give, than to receive!”  There is a clear fact that is evident in serving others!  When we are engaged in helping our fellowman, then we are not focused on our own issues and our own misery!  Get busy serving God!!  Devote your time to making a difference.  Follow, the teachings of the Holy Scriptures, and be active in your “Giving!”  Folks, every time that I want to “Shut Down,” and “Close Out” everyone, I remember the words of my mother, and the witness of God’s Word through her actions, I get up and get busy, busy for my Lord!  FACT: If you are seeking understanding, in this chaotic world, then dedicate yourself to understanding others.  If you are seeking comfort in this life, then dedicate yourself to providing comfort for others.  If you are seeking a greater level of Faith, then dedicate yourself to sharing Jesus and to planting the seeds of Faith, in others!  Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!                   

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 14, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

RACHEL BAGGETT

ADDIE BATTEN (In Heaven)

JULIE SWINSON

ALLISON HIMMEL ( In Heaven)

Living For Jesus

August 14         Living For Jesus                 Titus 1:16

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.” (Titus 1:16)

“You are a hypocrite! You preach about Love, yet you are intolerant of others and their struggles!” This statement was made about me, to me, just over a year ago, and I responded with the reality of truth! I said, “To you, I suspect that it is true! You have a concept of Christianity, although, you are not living it, but expect others to conform to “Your” standards and expectations!” The reality is clear! Every believer has the potential to be accused of hypocrisy, especially if we are talking a talk without walking the walk! Satan, and his servants are looking for opportunities to defame God’s Word and to deny the glory of His Grace! Sadly, I witness, every day, the fact that we all mess up, from time to time, and we are certainly not perfect! Praise God! Every believer is on a journey to ultimate perfection, unfortunately, we will never achieve perfection in this human body! When we come to Jesus, we begin the process of sanctification, and we will make mistakes and we will “mess up,” but Praise God, is Grace is H

 His Grace covers our stumbles, and His Grace provides our continued strength to overcome! BOTTOM LINE BELIEVER: BE WHAT YOU SAY YOU ARE AND DO WHAT YOU SAY YOU ARE GOING TO DO! LIVE YOUR LIFE AS A REFLECTION OF THE LOVE AND GRACE OF YOUR SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST!  Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 13, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

JEANY O’NEAL

MIKE HARRIS

LEAMON STRICKLAND

Let “JOY” Abound

August 13         Let “JOY” Abound             Proverbs 16:3

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.”  (Proverbs 16:3)

Our JOY is not determined by our circumstances! Our JOY is not about good or bad situations or events! True JOY, His JOY is about our commitment to Him and His Promises of Power, Presence and Provision, for every circumstance! Our delight, and our attitudes are not about balmy weather or ice-covered roads or hot days or frozen nights, or any other circumstance, it is about COMMITMENT! God Loves Us Enough, That He Sent Jesus to SAVE Us, and to SUSTAIN Us! We flourish when we are growing in HIS GRACE and in HIS Power and in HIS AMAZING GRACE! When we are growing stronger, each day, in our Faith, we are prepared for the challenges of living, and we are ready to enjoy the fruits of our relationship with Almighty God! JOY is a product of HIS GRACE, and our receiving HIS GRACE, and living each day, claiming HIS BLESINGS! Circumstances, situations, worldly challenges do not determine our JOY! God’s JOY is so much more than circumstances! Our JOY, Our Security, our future is dependent on our growing relationship with God! Give Your Life to God, Today, and Live for HIM, growing and loving and sharing and being what HE has Called you to be! Please Lord, Grant us the courage, wisdom, determination, and vision to claim YOUR Promises and to walk in YOUR AMAZING GRACE! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 12, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

GEORGE CREECH

PAT HORTON

JACKIE HUNTER (In Heaven)

SAM MORRIS

KATELYN KIRBY

CINDY HAUER

“Surrendering Your Thoughts”

August 12         “Surrendering Your Thoughts”   Luke 5:22

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Jesus knew what they were thinking and asked, ‘Why are you thinking these things in your heart?’”  (Luke 5:22)

The way that we think and the things that we dwell on are critically important in our Spiritual Journey!  In a portion of Proverbs 23:7, it says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he!”  We are all aware that our thoughts are often conflicted.  Many thoughts rush through our heads and the results are often guilt, despair, doubts, fears, uncertai9nties, anger and a host of other thoughts!  Often, our thoughts are controlled by the circumstances of the moment, and we experience anger over the circumstances, and we worry about what is going to happen, and we start complaining about everything!  I have witnessed, during the struggles of the recent Pandemic and the surge of various additional mutations of the virus, and the ongoing struggle with the ever-changing threats, and our present political environment, a harsh and distressing reality.  Many, including Professing Believers, are allowing the circumstances of the day to dictate attitude and behavior.  Dwelling on the issues of the day can cause anger, tensions, frustrations, confusion, helplessness, worry, and extreme anxieties that we need not be involved with!  (FYI---A FACT OF LIFE: WE CANNOT CHANGE THE WAY THAT THE WORLD IS GOING! GOD’S PLAN WILL UNFOLD AND HIS PROPHESIES WILL BE FULFILLED!)  Are you focusing on the crazy, upside down, evil happenings?  Are you consumed by the “News of the Day?”  When we are under the Blood of Jesus, and the Holy Spirit is guiding and sustaining us, we are not going to understand the insanity of this age! How can we understand the satanic evil that is happening? Who would believe the absolutely insane activities and political rhetoric that has become the standard for human behavior? I have stopped allowing the “Rot” and “Insanity” to constantly enter my mind!  I have limited my, so called, “News,” to the weather and the general highlights of the day.  Folks, Evil is running rampant throughout our world.  The very survival of our nation, as we know it, is under attack.  “COMMON SENSE” is dying a slow and painful death!  Ridiculous and insane concepts are being adopted as the way that we should think and act, and these Evil motivated actions are draped in Satanic intent!!  So, what are you thinking?  Are you dwelling on the obviously evil and twisted thoughts and actions of the day?  Can you imagine, that in New York City School System, the idea of “Class Rankings” is on the “Chopping Block,” because, God Forbid, that any child would “Feel” inadequate or less than their neighbor.  It is proper and “A Must,” to destroy an unborn child, yet you can go to jail if you destroy a tree or a “striped newt!”  Do you understand?   Are you engaged in the lunacy of this day?  Does it really matter what the world is doing?  Well, not for me!  Yes, I must live in this world, and I have to navigate through the situations that exist, however, I refuse to be a part of the insanity!!!  So, what’s next?  I am focused on the fact that this is not my home and that I am just passing through!  I am praying and I am watching, and I am surviving; and I am attempting to share Jesus with as many people as possible, until God calls me home, or He “Raptures the Church!”  Just remember… as a Believer, He has set us free, even in the midst, of all, of the mayhem, and insanity that dominates our world.  Claim His freedom and be set free!  What are you thinking?  Are you Dwelling on the world?  Surrender Your Thoughts and Actions to God and Live for Him, not the World!  Please don’t worry…When we are HIS, and HE dwells in us, we are GREAT!  I am living the VICTORY PRINCIPLE: “I affirm that God’s power is rising in me, Renewing, and healing my body, bringing power to my mind, Giving me success in my work.  I affirm health, energy, enthusiasm, the joy of Life.  All of this I owe to Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.  He has given me the VICTORY PRINCIPLE for which I thank Him every day!” NOT TODAY SATAN, NOT TODAY!! What God does with you, depends on what you do!  It always has, and it always will!  Control what comes into your mind and continue to serve Him in obedience and do not Fear!  MY GOD HAS THIS!!!  Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 11, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

LANDON BAILEY

MELISSA WORLEY

BROOKE HARGREAVES

ETHAN PEARCE