Sober, Vigilant, Strong
July 30 Sober, Vigilant, Strong 1 Peter 5:8
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1 Peter 5:8)
Pay Attention! When we take our focus off our commitments, and we operate on our feelings and emotions, then we give Satan an opening to dictate and manipulate our existence! Sadly, so sadly, even good and decent people succumb to the wiles of the Devil and allow their focus and commitments to be altered by Satan’s destructive ways! When you allow him to have a “foothold” in your life, then you are in danger of being “devoured” and “destroyed!” Commitment, Dedication, Love, Endurance, Focus, Service, Witness; these are words of action, and that action is empowered through our redemption, accomplished through the shed blood of Jesus Christ! Satan is waiting for you to “feel” isolated, vulnerable, confused, and he begins his “consuming” of your life, witness, and everything that you hold sacred and valuable! Communities are rocked, family are destroyed, individuals are devoured because of our human desires, fanned by Satan, we take our focus away from the truth and are deceived by Satan, and we succumb to his wiles, and we position ourselves to be destroyed! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE…. Resist Satan, Stay Focused on the Mission, Remember, IT IS NOT ABOUT US, BUT ABOUT THE CAUSE OF CHRIST! Satan WILL DECEIVE! Satan WILL DESTROY! His job, his purpose, is to dilute, confuse and alter the truthful message of Christ! Please Be Careful… “because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Lifestyle Evangelism
July 29 Lifestyle Evangelism Mark 16:15-16
Good Morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15-16)
The idea of evangelism has always been terrifying to me. Going up to someone and interrupting their day to tell them about Jesus, no matter how real and good I know Him to be, has never been comfortable for me. But you can’t read Scripture and avoid, God’s command to share the gospel. You can’t read through the New Testament and discount the reality that the disciples gave themselves entirely—to the point of death—that the world might come to know Jesus. In verses like Mark 16:15-16 couldn’t be clearer. Jesus commands us, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Evangelism is meant to be a part of our normal lives. It’s not just for the few. It’s not just for pastors or the deacons or Sunday School teachers or the intensely extroverted and outgoing…It’s for you and me!! When I examine my own heart, I discover that my fears related to evangelism are entirely selfish. In fact, I don’t know if I could do something more selfish than hold back the one hope for the world just to protect my own image. Listen, even as a preacher, I still have the human emotional “Shy Natured” thoughts that conflict with my responsibilities and my calling! Do you understand what Jesus is making crystal clear in Mark 16:16? He has said that those who don’t believe in Him will be condemned. It’s like I know the cure for COVID19 and rather than sacrificing my image to love others by sharing the cure, I just let everyone continue to suffer. In examining my own heart, I realize that the way to engage in evangelism isn’t fixing myself; it’s getting over myself. Is my image really, so important that it’s worth condemnation for another? Are the opinions of others, really, so important to me, that I would withhold from them eternal, abundant life with a God who loves them relentlessly and perfectly? I am made to share God’s light. I have been commissioned by my King to go out and share his heart. It’s time that we obey God’s command in Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Sure, people might think I’m weird, strange, or twisted. In, reality, folks probably think that already! Sure; it might be a little awkward. But God is after the hearts of his creation, and he’s called me to help. May we be those who set aside our pride, seek humility, and love others whatever the cost. May we be so bold as to set our eyes on heaven and sacrifice this life for the sake of eternity. And may the world change around us as we humbly and courageously proclaim the goodness of our heavenly Father. Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Fellowship
July 28 Fellowship 1 John 1:7
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7)
Many years ago, my dear Pastor, and friend, Norris Cook, exposed me to a lesson that has lasted ever since. There was a lady, in our community, that had experienced tragedy and difficulties, and she was all alone in the world. I felt the need to step up and step in to help this special lady! She had devoted her entire life in service for others, and now, with her family gone, she was lonely and had little resources, in order, to pay anyone to help her. Following the example of my mother, I jumped in and began to help this dear lady. Quickly, I realized that I was going to be unable to help her by myself. Mr. Cook gave me some sage advice! “Let other people help you, help her!” That was the moment that I realized, although noble and “Christ-like,” I couldn’t do it alone. God’s word instructs us to “fellowship” together and to, come together, in worship and service. I started calling on my Christian friends for assistance! Amazingly, within a short time, we had an entire group of folks that were a part of helping with Miss Ruth’s needs! The lesson from Mr. Cook is still an important lesson for today: “When I, alone, can’t; we, together, can!!!” Thank you, Mr. Cook, for your guidance and THANK YOU JESUS, for YOUR LOVE AND FOR OTHER BELIEVERS! Do Not Forsake the Assembling of Yourselves Together! Not just to hear the preacher, but for the support and fellowship of other believers! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
(NOTE: A couple of days ago, I spoke to a lady, and her question to me was interesting! She asked, “Why do you continue to write that the best is yet to be?” I told her, “I continue to say it because it is true!”)
“Real JOY”
July 27 “Real JOY” Matthew 5:12
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:12)
If you were raised in the church, you probably remember the song, “I’ve got joy, joy, joy, joy down deep in my heart…” I love the part that Mrs. Carter would add… “And if the Devil doesn’t like it, he can sit on a tack!” Think about this concept! Experiencing real joy, in the midst of trials and persecutions, and difficulties and challenges! How is this possible? Real JOY is only possible in a Personal and Growing Relationship with the Savior, JESUS CHRIST! I am excited to know that, through Faith in the One that has saved me, and will never fail me, nor will He ever leave me, that I can experience REAL JOY, in spite of the issues of the day! REAL JOY is more than earthly pleasures and an “easy” life! It is embracing and experiencing the power for living, right here, right now, and the blessed hope of eternity with Him in Heaven! THANK YOU, GOD, for sending JESUS to provide SALVATION and REAL JOY!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Perpetually Prepared
July 26 Perpetually Prepared Isaiah 26:3
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3)
I heard a story about a newly hired hand that was trying to wake up the boss, when he realized that a big storm was coming towards the farm. He banged on the door, yet no one came. He, finally, threw rocks against the side of the house, and, finally, the farmer came to the door to inquire what was going on. “There is a big storm with high winds coming! We need to secure the animals and secure the barns!” The farmer told the hired hand to calm down. “Go back to bed, I’ve already taken care of things. I do it every night so I can sleep through storms!” There are some folks that seem to be anxious and troubled and unsettled in every aspect of their lives. There again, there are others that are calm and serene and seemingly unmoved by the turmoil and challenges of this life. So, it begs the question: What is the secret of inner peace? As my Daddy used to tell me (over and over), “Opportunity favors a prepared mind!” I believe that one important key to peace is preparation! The farmer wasn’t afraid of the storm because he had prepared for the storm. Believers, as Christians, we need to prepare ourselves to handle the adversity and challenges that are coming our way, by placing our complete trust in the Lord. Remember John 16:33! Be in a state of perpetual preparedness! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… Armor -up… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
“Rejoice, Pray, Be Thankful”
July 25 “Rejoice, Pray, Be Thankful” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
In the Fall of 1964, I saw the power of God demonstrated within my own little family. The year began with my mother having yet another kidney surgery and the disruption of our household, by her absence. Daddy hired a lady to come in and cook and clean and “look after me.” Sadly, this lady was a thief and a liar! She didn’t stay long! So, I went to a neighbor’s house after school and that was interesting. They were good people, just strange! Mama came home and all was right with the world, until she was forced to go back to the hospital in October of 1964. Here we go again…I can only imagine the stress and anxiety that my Daddy was going through. This time, this surgery, Mama had her right kidney removed. She finally came home, and things began to normalize. The phone rang and I answered the call and there was a Goldsboro Police Officer on the other end of the line, asking to speak to Mrs. Brock. Well, she was asleep, and I told him, and he dropped the news on me…your Daddy has been in an accident, and he is at Wayne Memorial Hospital. I immediately woke Mama, and she calmly called the Police Department for details and then she called the Hospital for details of his condition. Her first response was…we need to pray! Keep in mind, Mama had a drain tube and a glass jar as the collection sight and I was a boy and we didn’t have a vehicle to travel on, with the exception, of a tractor. After some challenges and calls, Mama was able to speak to Daddy and things improved quickly. Apparently, someone ran a light and T-Boned Daddy. He was Okay and was headed home. When he arrived home, there was such a relief and calm, within the walls of our little home. Daddy was bruised up and had 2 broken ribs, and we were now a “No” car family and Mama was recovering from major surgery, and I was a little boy! Daddy made fried bologna sandwiches for our supper (and for him, this was a major accomplishment), and we sat around the table, prayed and ate. When I think back to that day, and the conditions that we experienced, I am still amazed at the attitude and actions of my parents. Daddy, Mama, and I held hands and Daddy asked blessing on the food and he gave thanks for bringing him through and he offered praise to God for protecting our little family! Amazing! I was seeing the misery, and Daddy and Mama were seeing the Blessing! This visual and practical lesson has stayed with me all these years. Later, I asked Daddy how it was that they were so upbeat when their lives were in shambles, and his response was priceless… “Son, we are children of God and He promised that He would be with us and help us. He, also, told us that troubles would come our way and to look to Him for comfort and restitution!” That day, I did not fully understand, but today, I do! Our Faith in God is the Key to Living! By Faith, my parents navigated through this life, and, by Faith, they taught me to “Look to God” for everything that I do… Basically… “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Please Stay Strong, Stay Focused…EVEN IN THE FACE OF GREAT CHALLENGES, THE BEST IS YET TO BE! (Re-Posting with a Purpose)
Continue Learning Each Day
July 24 Continue Learning Each Day Proverbs 1:5
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:” (Proverbs 1:5)
Have you ever heard the statement that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?” I am here to tell you that God can and does teach old dog’s new tricks! It is important for believers to continue to seek His face and to continue to “dig” deep into His Holy Word, and to continue to learn and to experience His Grace and to be prepared to share and teach about His Love and His Amazing Grace! One thing that my Daddy hammered into my head was the fact that knowing something in our minds and knowing how to apply it or, doing it, are two different things! Folks, God expects us to continue to grow in His Grace and in our Knowledge of Him, with the goal of increasing our “closeness” to Him and to enhance our relationship and to be “effective” witnesses for Him. We must be “Life-Long” Learners, and we must continue to Learn about Him and to continue to Lean on Him and continue to Grow in Him and to experience the “Abundant Living” that He has ordained for us to experience! What God does with you is up to you! It always has, and it always will! Keep Learning, Keep Loving, Keep Experiencing, Keep Sharing, Keep Enjoying His Bounty, and Never, Ever, stop Growing in Him! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Perspective: How is it that professing believers can support social and political positions and opinions that are in direct conflict with the Holy Scriptures? How can one claim to be “Saved,” and support the systematic attacks on our children and the promotion of “Twisted” values? Everyone remembers the challenges when “Drag Queens” were reading to our children! Wonder why these “Queens” were not going into the Nursing Homes and reading to the elderly? How is it that believers can endorse the fallacy of more than 2 genders? Sin takes many forms and, as I grow older, I recognize the truth of God’s word: Matthew 7:13-14 – “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Your opinions do not matter to God! Repentance, Obedience, and Commitment are Essential for a growing and stable relationship with God, through the Grace of Jesus, and the Guiding and Empowering Promise of the Holy Spirit! Remember – “few there be that find it…”
Patience Perfected
July 23 Patience Perfected James 1:3
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1:3)
Most of my life, I have experienced, what my mother called, “Irritating Impatience!” Patience is not an easy thing to master, and I know that I am not alone in this challenge! Life is fraught with delays, detours, unexpected challenges, and if you are like me, this can cause a bit of frustration, at least for that moment! How about the couple that stopped going to a particular church because the preacher didn’t finish on time, or the lady that, from the back of the line, made sure that everyone knew that she was special and that this delay was most inconvenient for her! Mama used to say these immortal words to me, daily; “Glen, Be Patient!” She would bring up the example of the farmer that prepares the soil, plants the crops, and “waits” for the harvest! As I have matured, in faith and in years, I have come to understand that “Patience” is something more that “Teeth-Grinding” endurance! Just as the farmer patiently watches the empty ground, he knows that there will be results! In our spiritual lives, God knows what the final product will be from what is happening to us! He expects us to connect our patience to our faith! As my Faith has increased, my patience has increased (and I have had a long way to go), and that has been a blessing to be praised! Ask our God for the gift of “Patience,” and then employ it in all that you do! Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Christian Non-Conformity
July 22 Christian Non-Conformity Romans 12:2
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, NC… “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)
While on vacation, just a few days ago, I had the opportunity to be exposed to a couple of media “preachers,” and their messages cause some concern in my spirit! The central theme of their messages was the necessity for the church to embrace the culture and to adapt to the changing times! I was intrigued as to where this would go and how deep it would dig into the fantasy of misguided directions. One of these “preachers” declared that Jesus never condemned anyone and that He was tolerant and embracing of the actions of those that He encountered. He emphasized the woman caught in adultery, and the fact that Jesus did not condemn her. This “preacher’ conveniently left out Jesus’ instructions to this woman: “Go and sin no more!” Fellow Believers, we have a Spiritual and Moral Obligation to Love One Another, yet that does not mean that we must accept behaviors that are diametrically opposed to the Holy Instructions of God’s Holy Word! Listen to what Colossians 2:8 tells us: “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” There are those who would have believe that we are to adapt to the evils of the day and that God’s Word is a suggestion, not a commandment! Satan is using every tool available to dilute and to weaken the Message of Christ, and he is using men and women to share just enough truth to hook others, then create the deception and achieve their goal of confused and disobedient individuals! Just a few short months ago, I was told that I should be more tolerant of the sin and evil of the day and that I needed to watch how I was being judgmental towards my fellow individuals and their non-edifying behaviors! Well, I am here to inform you that I will continue to advocate for the righteousness of God and that I will continue to engage the Evil of the day with the illuminating Light of God’s Holy Word, and I will continue to embrace the instructions from Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Regardless of what the world and the evil that exists, as “born again” believers, we are to continue to embrace His Grace and Mercy and we are to stand strong against the compromises of Satan and the false teachings of earthly lawlessness! I quote and pray, every day, that Psalm 19:14 will be my default position and that I will continue to serve HIM, regardless of the challenges, circumstances or the ever-changing acceptability of evil: “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” How about you? Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
HIS Amazing Creation
July 21 HIS Amazing Creation Colossians 1:16
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” (Colossians 1:16)
Sitting on the dock, awaiting the sun to rise, I sat in the solitude of the moment, observing the vastness and beauty of my God’s Creation. The sun began its appointed arrival, and I was struck with a sense of awe and wonder. Think about it! God decided, in one moment, and the history of Man began. Everything that is of Man, became a matter of record. This Sun, this amazing ball of flaming gases, that is designed to light the universe, came out of nothing! God ordained that this light would determine our days! God’s mighty hand began to work, and we have deep canyons that were carved out of solid rock, and the oceans were gathered together, mountains sprang up out of the flatlands, the stars were hung in perfect order, and our God created the delicate petals of a wildflower, and HIS Power and Beauty were evident for all to observe! As I looked out over a lake that was reportedly created by a meteor strike, thousands of years ago, and I contemplated the power and majesty of God’s creation, the majestic beauty and symmetry of His Divine plan, and I am truly grateful and am in awe! Friends, in our busy, chaotic world, please take time to observe and to enjoy the blessings of God’s magnificent creation, and appreciate His Power, Presence, and Amazing Grace through His Love for us! Encourage others to see the majesty and beauty of God’s Amazing Creation! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS ABSOLUTELY AND EMPHATICALLY YET TO BE!
Who Will You Serve?
June 20 Who Will You Serve? 1 Kings 18:21
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, how long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.” (1 Kings 18:21)
You cannot ride two horses at the same time! Can we have one foot in the church and one foot in the world, and expect to survive successfully? Remember the old statement of, “having your cake and eating it?” Friends, this attitude and reality is akin to straddling a fence! God’s word, in Revelation 3:15-16, tells us exactly how God feels about “fence straddling!” “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.” Satan is active and he is presenting many “shiny” distractions! Sadly, we are pursuing false gods of money, position, power, materialism, and pleasure, while paying “lip Service” to Almighty God! IT IS TIME TO MAKE A DECISION!! It is time to come down off the fence and decide as to whom you will serve! THIS IS NOT A GAME, and YOUR ETERNAL FUTURE DEPENDS ON IT! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Perspective: There appears to be this idea that God is supposed to conform to our ways and thoughts and that we are to do as we please and He should validate our behaviors! The reality, however difficult, is the opposite! We are to be “Transformed,” “Re-Born,” and we are to conform to His likeness and His ways, and we are to serve Him in the Power and Beauty of HIS Holiness, not our own limited and shifting thoughts and human priorities! Who Will You Serve? Will your decisions be obvious to a lost and dying world?
Forgiveness
July 19 Forgiveness Ephesians 4:32
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Recently, one individual felt compelled to share his displeasure with the Morning Devotions that I write and post, and the concept that Jesus is the only way to salvation and to Heaven. He continued to share his displeasure with the “Church,” in general, and the hypocritical nature of the attitudes and actions of many, including me! Well sir, my human nature wanted to “get even,” and to “teach this misguided and possessed individual a lesson!” The Holy Scriptures record the words of Jesus that instruct us to “Forgive” one another, and there are no cavoites or exceptions to this command! Again, in our human nature, we think that getting even will restore our “wholeness!” No wonder, that Evil and Evil Doers, are absolutely opposed to the radical offering of Jesus Christ. Jesus instructs us to have an attitude of forgiveness and to become “Christ-Like,” in all of our encounters. This world, and the Evil that exists, will continue to throw punch after punch, with the express purpose to shake our faith and our commitment to Christ! Being Christ-Like, we have a special anointing that comes from God’s Love and the Precious Shed Blood of Jesus Christ, and the gift, empowers us to Love and to Forgive! Love and Forgiveness are special attributes of the Christian, and we must live out these blessings, in everything that we do! Remember, regardless of what has happened to you, and regardless of who has hurt you, FORGIVENESS is REQUIRED, FORGIVENESS is a MUST, for your GROWTH and your being truly “CHRIST-LIKE!” If you do not FORGIVE others, how can you expect to be FORGIVEN? FYI… I told this man that I was praying for him and that he was correct. In my humanity, I am a sinner, just like everyone, but because of Jesus, I am made acceptable in the eyes of God, through His Holy Son. Since he didn’t cause me to lash out at him and he didn’t achieve his intended goal, he walked away, mumbling, “I don’t care if you are praying for me…!” God told us that Evil will attack, then attack some more and once that attack in over, Satan will regroup and attack some more! NOT TODAY SATAN, NOT TODAY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE! FORGIVE…
Fear or Faith?
July 18 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!
Tribulation, Joy, An Overcoming Victory
July 17 Tribulation, Joy, An Overcoming Victory John 16:33
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, NC… “In this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Yesterday’s devotion dealt with the impossible becoming possible, through the power of Almighty God. Today, I continue to claim His Power for our living and to remind us of the victory that is ours through the shed blood of Jesus! When you observe the worldwide chaos and the traumatic activities of a world racked by evil and satanic activities, it is easy to feel a sense of being overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the insanity. Jesus spoke to His Disciples, with the knowledge that they were about to face some “real world” challenges and persecutions, and He would not be with them. Jesus spoke these words of promise to them, and He speaks these powerful words to us, right now, today! Praise God! God loved us enough that He sent Jesus to die for our sins and when we accept His selfless gift of redemption and claim Him as Lord and Savior, then, because He has overcome the world, and we are His, then, because of His Blood that covers our sins, we too, are OVERCOMERS! So, fellow believer, LIVE LIKE AN OVERCOMER!! Challenges are real, difficulties are happening, and sin exists in this world, yet we need not fear…BECAUSE WE HAVE VICTORY FOR LIVING THROUGH JESUS AND HIS GRACE AND WE ARE OVERCOMERS! Let me say it again!!! WE ARE OVERCOMERS! WE ARE OVERCOMERS!! Claim the Victory and live victorious, not from our own power, but the “Overcoming Power of our God!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Perspective: Yesterday, I overheard a lady berating the ICE organization and I could tell that she was ill informed. These men and women of this Federal Agency are doing their job, defined by Congressional authority, and regardless of your own politically motivated bias, still have a job to do! ICE stands for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Their Mission is to Protect America through criminal investigations and enforcing immigration laws to preserve national security and public safety. Somehow, entering this country illegally has become acceptable among certain segments of our population. NO OTHER COUNRTY IN THE WORLD ALLOWS FOR UNCONTROLLED ENTRANCE INTO THEIR COUNTRY! Would you allow someone to enter your home, eat your food, use your resources and sleep in your bed, and expect you to provide for their needs, without some pushback? NO! Why is it acceptable in the national setting? Immigration is absolutely a part of our national culture and should be an ongoing dynamic of our national future, yet uncontrolled and illegal entry must never be tolerated, regardless of political posturing and bias! ICE is a part of our duly authorized legal National Law Enforcement Agencies and is necessary to maintain our national identity! Agree, disagree, the facts remain! Please pray for our Nation, our Leaders, our State and Local Officials!
The Impossible Made Possible
July 16 The Impossible Made Possible Mark 10:27
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And Jesus looking upon them saith, with men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” (Mark 10:27)
I absolutely love this promise from my Savior! There are times, especially in recent days, that I have been bewildered and overwhelmed by the challenges of the day and have had a sense of being defeated and I Praise God that this promise of God, spoken by my Savior, has brought me back to the reality of my living! When I remember God’s great Love for me, and all of the promises that He provides and the necessity to be what He has called me to be, well, all of the blues and defeated attitudes simple disappear and I am ready and re-energized to take on the impossible, directed and empowered by the Holy Spirit! Alone, I am weak, but through my God, I have strength to overcome and to live for Him with power and assurance and with the humanly impossible, becomes absolutely and totally possible through my God! Remember 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, mu Lord and Savior. He has given me the VICTORY PRINCIPLE for which I thank Him every day!” I continue to Praise God for making the IMPOSSIBLE, completely POSSIBLE, in my walk with Him! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
Courage Comes from Within
July 15 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 support is 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!
HIS Great Love…
July 14 HIS Great Love… John 15:13
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
In 1 John 4:8, John wrote to the early church that “God is Love!” Christianity is the only earthly belief system that, has at its foundation, the reality of Loving One Another! Love is the key. Love is the central part of our God’s very nature and existence. It is because of God’s amazing Love that He sought a vital relationship with sinful men and women, even at the cost of His Only Begotten Son. It was this GREAT LOVE that brought Jesus to the Cross, and it was this amazing Love that Jesus demonstrated, on that old Cross, is the reality of God’s GREAT LOVE for us! So, when Jesus says that; “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends,” it is a statement of our requirement to Love God and our Neighbor! Our Jesus, willingly and with divine purpose, went to the Cross and suffered and died for our sins and this is the Greatest Act of Love that the world has ever known!! Jesus came because God Loves us and Jesus, in His Love for Mankind, was willing to be the one, true, and final blood sacrifice for our sins! That, my friends, is LOVE. I am excited to be a part of that “Shed Blood Experience” and to call Jesus, friend. As my friend, I am in communication with Him, and to have Him share in my burdens, and grateful that He intercedes, with the Father, on my behalf. The reality is clear, we are to Love God, Embrace and claim His Love through Jesus and to GO and SHARE this LOVING RELATIONSHIP and this LOVING FRIENDSHIP with everyone that we meet!! Thank you, God for Loving, me enough to “Lay Down Your Son’s Life For ME!” IT IS ALL ABOUT HIS LOVE FOR US!! DO YOU REALLY LOVE HIM? Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
THANK-YOU!
July 13 THANK-YOU! Isaiah 40:31
THANK YOU! THANK YOU to MR. CLINT ANDREWS for filling the Pulpit on Sunday, MR. GLEN HORTON for teaching Sunday School, Our DEACONS for Covering the needs of the Flock, for MRS. ASHELYN BRIGGERMAN for posting the Daily Devotions, and for the BEST CHURCH FAMILY, PERIOD! We Love Each of You and we are grateful for the privilege to serve an Awesome God and an amazing church family! Pastor Glen & Annette
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Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
The past seven (7) days have afforded Annette and I the privilege and opportunity to refresh and renew and to rest. Being on call, 24-7-365 can be overwhelming and I am so very grateful for a Church Family that recognizes the reality and encourages us to take some “Down-Time” to recharge the Spiritual and Physical Batteries. What a privilege to greet each new day, sitting on the dock, watching as God breaks open a new day, recognizing His amazing Grace and Abundant Blessings! This devotion, today, is dedicated to saying “THANK-YOU” to our amazing Church Family and to PRAISE GOD for HIS Abundant Blessings and Sustaining Power! As Mrs. Peggy Wilder used to proclaim, “I am Blessed, More Blessed, and Blessed Some More!” TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
July 12 Our Bountiful and Endless Supply Romans 8:32
**Please Pray for Mr. Clint Andrews as he will be preaching today, at BTC! Thank-You my Dear Brother for your willingness to be used by God! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!”
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Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)
God has promised that He would be faithful to us and that He would sustain us and never leave us nor forsake us, yet there are times when we are discouraged and lonely and in despair and we have difficulty finding our way. Remember, He is our unending and on-going supply for everything that we need to live for Him and to enjoy the “Fruit” of our Labor and to Praise God from whom, all, of our, blessings flow!! You see, God gave His Son for us. How much more will He give, in our times of need and struggles? I am excited that He is an overflowing well of resources, that brings, into my life, spiritual pride and hope and energy and vitality and His Blessed Assurance. Guess What? That’s right…God is Good…God is Mighty…God is Love and God is Good to His Children. Be Encouraged! Be Committed! Be True to His Calling! Enjoy the Prosperity that He Provides for His Children! Once again, Be Encouraged!!! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!