VIDEO LINKS TO THIS MESSAGE


MIRACLES ARE FOR REAL - PART ONE
MIRACLES ARE FOR REAL - PART TWO
MIRACLES ARE FOR REAL - PART THREE


MIRACLES ARE FOR REAL

by Pastor Mark Taylor

“Though Jesus had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on Him.”

John 12:37

I have heard many people say that if they could see a miracle in their lives, they would believe in God and in Jesus.  Miracles are for real, and many people today have read about, heard about, and even seen God work in miraculously ways, but they have not experienced  a personal relationship with Him.

Today, I will talk about miracles and try to explain a few reasons why they happen and why some people experience them, while others miss them.  Let me establish that I am talking to and about Christians who have loved God and served Him.  People outside the family of God may experience miracles, but the reason they do is that God is trying to get their attention and draw them to Him.

Whether you are in need of a minor intervention or a big miracle, God cares deeply about your needs and circumstances..God deeply cares about you.  Regarding the supernatural the best way to live, the only way to live, is to believe that a miracle could happen at any moment.

Paul said: Now unto Him Who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all we can ask or think, according to His power that is at work within us, Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20)

Eighty percent of Americans believe in Miracles, while only Forty percent believe the Bible is God's Word and only Fifty percent pray daily.  So I am not going to spend much time trying to prove to you that there are such things as miracles and they happen often.  You may say that you have never experienced one, but that does not change the fact that they happen.   I have both experienced God and miracles and His presence many times, so I know He is real and so are miracles. Historical writings from AD 185 to 1746, assert that miracles were happening during the life times of many Christian writers.  This includes Martin Luther and John Wesley.  Many fail to recognize that miraculous occurrences have been recorded in virtually every age.  The record of God's miracles stretches from ancient times until today.

The Lord Jesus performed miracles in at least six different areas:  In the human heart (Salvation),  In the human body (Healing),  In human emotions (Deliverance), In nature, In intervention in death, and miracles of provision at critical moments

The Lord Jesus performed miracles freely, graciously, and lovingly.  True, this doesn't   explain why some people receive special intervention and others don't.  There is a powerful principle around the accounts of the people our Lord Jesus healed and that is:  We can't merit them.  We can't win them, warrant them, or work for them.  Miracles are given because of who God is, not because of who we are.  They are granted because of God's mercy and grace.

Miracles do not just happen - They have a purpose.  God's primary purpose for healing a person is to focus on that individual and enhance the relationship. But there are at least six possible purposes for miracles as found in the Bible:

    To reveal the nature of God, in showing His love and compassion.

    To draw out faith of diseased people or those in need.

    To draw out the faith of those who can help and assist the sick and the needy.

    To reveal our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

    To reveal characteristics about others who have healed other than our Lord.

    To set the stage for a showdown between the forces of good and the forces of evil.

Instead of wondering why God isn't preventing or eliminating sickness or evil, we need to be asking why the devil chose to bring about evil.  "The thief (Satan) comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10).  

Despite all those causes of hardships and pain, God still intervenes, often keeping us safe from disaster and pain.  The question is not "Why don't you do more?",  but rather, "I am amazed at how much you have done for me!!"

Our all-loving, all-powerful God decides when and how to touch His people with miracles.  Miracles flow from from an existing relationship between God and a person or from a relationship God desires to have with a person.

Can you do anything to bring about a miracle?  God makes miracles happen. Through our prayers, we can see them happen.  Additionally, you create a climate in which God's Spirit actively is invited to move.  Prayer and the atmosphere of expectancy invites God in to work the miraculous.

One substantial way we can contribute is by praying in faith.  Faith-filled prayers has an impact.  While some miracles are entirely unanticipated most are prayed for, and even expected.


The second thing you can do is live a life pleasing to God.

"What?  Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which you have from God, and you are not your own?

For you are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your Spirit, which is God's.". 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU FROM,RECEIVING A MIRACLE?

Purposeful sin and living an ungodly life will not only keep you from receiving miracles, it will keep you from getting any prayers answered. "If I regard iniquity in my heart, themLord will not hear me."  (Psalms 66:18).   "If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."  ( 2 Chronicles 7:14).

You have to make some decisions when you walk with God.  Is a selfish life of pleasing yourself worth missing the miracles God has for you?

A prayer for a miracle:  "God, I know you are my loving Father and desire to help me.  I know you have given me authority to speak your will on earth and I proclaim your will over this situation.  Since all good things come from you, I thank you in advance that either I will receive the miracle needed this moment, or I will experience the miracle of strength over what I now face."  This prayer demonstrates confidence and strength in understanding that God has given His children authority not only to come to Him with requests but also to stand against the opposition of Satan in His Name.

Do you need a miracle today?  You never know what you will receive until you ask in faith and in God’s will.  “You have not, because you ask not or you ask for the wrong reason.”  (James 4:2).  The closer you are to God and the Lord Jesus, the closer you are to receiving your miracle.

(Most of this sermon was edited and adapted from a wonderful book about Miracles - Miracles Are For Real by James L. Harlow and Keith Wall.  I highly recommend this book for a study on miracles)

Day of the Missionary

John Gibson Paton

May 24 1824, Birth of John Gibson Paton. He was missionary to the New Hebrides Islands. During his youth he was greatly influenced by the devoutness of his father who would go there times a day to his "prayer closet" and conducted family prayers twice a day. He heard a call from God to serve as a missionary. He & his family landed in a island which was full of cannibals. Painted nude men & women wore grass apron. There they started the work of God.

John G. survived his wife by nearly two years, dying at the age of 82 on 28 Jan 1907 at Cross St, Canterbury, Victoria, Australia.

They are both buried at Boroondara at the intersection of High Street and Park Hill Road, Kew, Victoria, Australia.

You Have Come Too Far To Turn Back Now

“Jesus said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:34).

One of the greatest things about God is that He continues to work with men and women despite their own limitations and failings.  Too often they do not allow God to complete what He starts within them.  The Lord Jesus wants to finish what He has started in you.  “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ”  (Philippians 1:6).

Family background is not a reliable indicator of accomplishment.  High percentages of great men and women have come from broken homes.  Neither is wealth an accurate indicator of success or poverty a guarantee of low achievement.  Opportunity is a very peculiar thing.  Two people with the similar gifts, talents, and resources can look at a situation, and one person will see tremendous opportunity while the other sees nothing.

To often people allow their circumstances to stop the Lord from putting the finishing touches on their lives.  They allow the bitter disappointments, the trials they are forced to endure, and the very dilemmas of life shape their character in such a way that nothing profitable ever comes of them.  Jesus gave us a warning about looking backwards. "Remember Lot's wife.” (Luke 17:32).  She had escaped the fire and brimstone of Sodom, but failed to follow God’s instructions and lost her life.  The children of Israel, twenty years and older, lost their opportunity to enter into the promise land because of doubt and fear.

Many people get close to receiving God’s salvation and blessings, but turn back.  “Now behold, one came and said to Him, "Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?" Jesus said to him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” (Matthew 19:16, 21-22).  “Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to become a Christian." (Acts 26:28).  Both of these were “not far from the kingdom of God”, but they missed it.

If you are a Christian, but you have become discouraged, keep on working for the Lord and remember where you are headed. Your blessings could be right around the corner or down the road.  If you turn back, you will never receive them.  God honors one thing above everything else and that is faith.  “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible….But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:1,3,6).  Remember "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:34).

Abraham Lincoln, the 13th U.S. Presidet went bankrupt twice, three of his four sons died before the age of 18, he had a bad marriage, and was defeated in eight state and national elections before he became President.  Harland David Sanders, started franchising Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurants at age 65, using $105 from his first retirement check to fund visits to potential franchisees.  He went to over 200 restaurants before someone bought his idea.  These are examples of men that did not quit and became successful in politics and business.  Just think what we can accomplish for the Lord if we are willing to keep on going in our failures and never let money, age, or negative comments of others affect us.  Many of you may be close to accomplishing something great in your life, but you have doubts about your abilities or resources.  Paul said: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).   

There is even a greater success than gaining wealth and fame. You can overcome sin in your life because that is why Jesus came to save you. "And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21).  He has come to make your life worth living. + “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10:10). He has come to give you true joy and happiness. "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” (John 15:11).

 The creator of the universe was talking to a man who was seeking his creator when “Jesus said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:34).  God is not far from you if you will look for Him. "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8).

YOU TUBE VIDEO LINKS TO THIS SERMON

WHO IS MY MOTHER - PART 1
WHO IS MY MOTHER? - PART 2
WHO IS MY MOTHER? - PART 3

SPECIAL MUSIC BY COURTNEY JENKINS - "LIKE MOTHER DOES"
COURTNEY JENKINS SINGINGS “LIKE MOTHER DOES”

Who Is My Mother? 
A Sermon by Pastor Mark Taylor

“Jesus answered and said unto him: Who is My mother? and who are my brothers and sisters? (Matthew 12:48)

Sunday in the USA we will celebrate a Holiday called "Mother's Day".  We honor all of our living and deceased Mother's as we follow God's commandant to "Honor your Mother's and Fathers".

“Mother’s Day” can be a difficult time for some ladies and men and children.  For some, their mothers have already gone to Heaven and are greatly missed during this holiday and on other special days we shared with them while they were with us here on Earth.  For some mothers it is a difficult day because their children have preceded them to Heaven and they are greatly missed.  For some ladies and their husbands it is a difficult day because they are childless and cannot celebrate this day as others do.  But it does not mean they cannot celebrate it.

I want to give you a different perspective of how our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, viewed His relationship to Mothers and Brethren (brothers and sisters).  When you look at this day through His eyes you will not see yourself as an orphan or as childless. 

My Father was taken out of this world when I was ten years old and my Mother when I was sixteen.  My Heavenly Father reminded me of His care for me even when I was an orphan.  “When my father and my mother leaves me, then the LORD will take me up....I would have fainted unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD, in the land of the living.  Wait on the LORD, be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, wait, I say, on the LORD.” (Psalm 27: 10-14).  God provided a loving Aunt and a caring Uncle to provide for me and my brother during these difficult days.  There were days like today that I missed my parents greatly.  It was difficult at graduation services, my wedding, the birth of my children, and holidays.  But in their absence, I sensed the presence of the Holy Spirit to comfort me when the waves of grief and loneliness came upon me.  “The LORD is near unto them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a sorrowful spirit.” (Psalm 34:18).  

In Matthew 12 Jesus was both teaching and healing many people who were in need at a local church (synagogue).  It was so full of people that day that the Lord’s own family could not get in.  They sent someone in to tell Jesus to stop what He was doing and come out of the service to talk with them.  That is when our Lord said: “Who is my mother? and who are my brothers and sisters.  And He stretched out his hand toward the disciples and said: Behold, my mothers, and my sisters and brothers.  For whosoever shall do the will of my Father, which is in Heaven, the same is my brother, sister, and mother.” (Matthew 12: 48-50).  Just as our Lord loved His Mother and His brothers and sisters, He wants to extend that invitation to you to be an equal part of His eternal family.

If your mother is alive today, you are to honor her. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.  Honor your Father and Mother; which is the first commandment with promise. That it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth.”  (Ephesians 6: 1-3).

For the Mothers who read or hear this message, I would like you to know that God has given you an awesome job to take care of your children, grandchildren, and even to be a Godly Mother figure to the children that God puts in your life.  People who have not studied about the Holy Spirit may not realize how much the Holy Spirit has in common with Mothers.   Mother’s do a lot more than they get credit for, and so does the Holy Spirit.  Mothers, you have one of the most powerful jobs on earth. 

You worth cannot be counted in dollars, but some have tried.   How much should a “Stay-At-Home Mom” be making?  According to salary.com:

Day-care Center Teacher - $26,891,  Van Driver - $30,762, Housekeeper - $18,750 Cook - $31,099, CEO - $612,623, Nurse -$56,113, General Maintenance Worker -$29,656.  Considering the time mom spends in each of the above jobs her salary should be:  Base Pay (40 hours) - $43,461   Overtime (60 hours) - $88,009

Mom’s salary   --- $131,471

I would encourage children today to do something to honor your Mother by writing her a note of love, doing an act of kindness, and giving her praise and thanks for being such a blessing to you.  I would encourage husbands to do the same.

How can you “honor” your Mother today and many other days of the year.  First you can tell her how much she means to you.  What greater words does a Mother want to hear than “I love You”.  The Bible tells us not to just show our love in words, but also in deeds.  Demonstrate your love by some visible action.  One of the greatest gifts we can give anyone is our time.  Slow down, and spend some time with your Mother.  Your Mother will not always be here with you on Earth.

If your Mother is not alive today or if she lives far away, how can you celebrate this day.  It is a difficult day for many of us who have lost our mothers, or who cannot be with them today..  But today, there are many Mothers who do not have children to share their love with.  There are many wonderful Ladies who do not have any children who would love to receive a call, visit, or a card from someone. There may be someone who gave you the love of a mother when you needed it.  You may have an Aunt or there may be someone in a nursing home that would love to hear “Happy Mother’s Day”.  Take a flower to your Mother’s grave site, say a prayer for her, tell her how much you miss her, and then transfer that love to someone who needs it today.  Even if your Mother is close by, share your love with other’s who will not be honored today, unless you do it!!

“Who is My Mother, my brothers, and sisters?”, Jesus asked.  His answer to His question was “whosoever shall do the will of my Father, which is in Heaven”.  Let us live like our Lord did by honoring others.  “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do god unto all people, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10).

Remember love is not just a feeling it is an action.  God bless all of our Mothers today both here and in Heaven!!

VIDEO LINKS TO THIS SERMON

Things I Have Had To Do To Be Happy - Part 1

Things I Have Had To Do To Be Happy - Part 2

Things I Have Had To Do To Be Happy - Part 3

"THINGS I HAVE HAD TO DO TO BE HAPPY"


(Series from Living a Happy Life In an Unhappy World) 

“If you know these things, happy are you if you do them.”  (John 13:17)

In Part One of this series we look at qualities that a person who is living a life of well-being demonstrates.  This included love, optimism, courage, freedom to choose, and good physical and mental health.  In Part Two we discussed “How to be an Optimist in a World of Pessimists”.  In this message we emphasized the importance of overcoming fear by believing that God can and wants to make your life a happy life.

In this message I would like to give you some practical ways of doing what our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ told us to do.  I would like to give you a few things He told us to do to be happy.

One of the central teachings of our Lord was this:  “By this shall all people know that you are my disciples, if you have love one towards another.” (John 13:35).  He said it was not just a suggestion, but a command.  “A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34).  Love is an action word not just a feeling or a mood.  Here are some ways to “love one another”.

• One special quality of love that really matters is APPRECIATION.  This is simple, requires little time, and cost you nothing.  A word of kindness not only brings happiness to others, but in turn will increase your happiness because you have shown love in a meaningful way. It may be as simple as being with Christian brothers and sisters at church and telling them that you are glad to see them and spend some time with them.

• Tell God how much you love Him by your actions of SERVICE TO OTHERS.  Every day we have the opportunity to do something good for someone without expecting something in return. Each of us has God-given talents and abilities we can use to make life better for others.

Another emphasis our Lord both taught and demonstrated was that of FORGIVENESS.  I know this is a difficult thing to do, but it is necessary for happiness.  Forgiveness is not about letting someone else get away with a past hurtful act against you, it is about you letting it go so God can give you happiness.  “If you forgive those who sin against you, your Heavenly Father will forgive you.  But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15).

A memory is a memory is a memory - and there is no healthy way to erase it.  It is history and no one can go back and undo it.  You cannot simply talk a problem to death, but the Holy Spirit can teach you how to forgive.  You can rise above your anger by funneling your mental energy into your spirit and intellect.   They can create new meaning out of old memories.  Forgiveness will bless you with an inner security and give you an unexpected sense of personal power.  Our emotions should not be controlled by the actions of others.

Your painful memories, which may once have made you feel like a victim, battered and demeaned, can become your greatest motivators and your richest sources of wisdom.  Remember you have been forgiven many times for mean things you have done toward God.   You have sinned by sins of commission or by omission, but He has forgiven you.  “This is the covenant that I will make with them...says the Lord.  I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them.  And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.” (Hebrews 10:15-16). 

We need to get the emotional power to forgive, and to stop torturing ourselves with the question: “Why Me?”. Everyone has losses in life.   Many people blame God for things He has nothing to do with.  When there is a great loss in your life through a death, or broken relationship, or loss of a job, God is not responsible.  Jesus said:  “Satan has come to kill, steal, and destroy, but I have come that you might have life, and have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10).  If you have anger toward God, you need to ask for forgiveness for misdirecting your anger.  God can handle it, but if you continue to blame Him, you will cut your self off of the future blessings and happiness He wants to give you.  God does not to things to His children that are harmful or hurtful.

Another practical way of “Being Happy in an Unhappy World”, is by following the teaching and example of Christ about not worrying.  Our Lord said: “Let not your heart be troubled.” (John 14:1).  “Take no thought about tomorrow, for tomorrow shall take care of itself.” (Matthew 6:34).

One way to overcome worry and fear is gratitude or thanksgiving for what you have today.  When you begin to worry about tomorrow, think of the blessings you have today.  Not only think about them, but write them down.  “Count your many blessings and name them one by one, Count your many blessings and you will see what God has done.”  Take time to focus on things that are going well in your life instead of things you have no control over.  “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto Thy Name, O Most High.” (Psalm 92:1).

You have the power to choose what you think about.  Keep in perspective the blessings you have and how little control you have over the actions and feelings of others.  You have the power to be happy by doing the things that our Lord has asked you to do.  The opposite of “If you know these things, happy are you if you do them.”  (John 13:17), is that if you don’t do these things you will not be happy.  Doing things or not doing things is your choice, but our Lord wants you to be happy and blessed in this life time and the one to come in Heaven.

This is God’s will for your life now:  “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” (John 15:11).  You can be happy in an unhappy world and it is your choice.

(For more written and video Sermons go to: 
www.sermonstotheworld.blogspot.com)

BEING HAPPY IN AN UNHAPPY WORLD - PART 2

VIDEO LINKS TO THIS MESSAGE


BEING AN OPTIMIST IN A WORLD OF PESSIMISTS - PART 1
BEING AN OPTIMIST IN A WORLD OF PESSIMISTS - PART 2
BEING AN OPTIMIST IN A WORLD OF PESSIMISTS - PART 3
BEING AN OPTIMIST IN A WORLD OF PESSIMISTS - PART 4



BEING HAPPY IN AN UNHAPPY WORLD - PART 2

Being An Optimist in a World of Pessimists

BY PASTOR MARK TAYLOR

“Lord, I believe, help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24)

In this message I hope to continue the series on “Being Happy in an Unhappy World”, by addressing both an enemy of happiness and a great gift from the Lord to fight that enemy.  The enemy is fear, and the gift is “Optimism”.

Our Lord often told those He was going to heal or save from personal disasters to: “Fear Not” (Luke 8:50). Fear is the greatest enemy of happiness.  Fears will keep coming up, but we can rise above them.  Fear fits in to one of two categories:  Fear of not having enough and Fear of not being enough.

In Part One, I wrote about the greatest antidote to fear, and that was love.  You get love for yourself and for others from God.  “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and every one that loves is born of God, and knows God.  He that does not love, does not know God.”  (I John 4:7-8).  It is unlikely you can be happy in an unhappy world without love, and loves starts with God and ends with God.

These words above were said to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ by a man who asked Him to heal his child.  The Lord had just said to him:  “If you can believe, all things are possible to him that believes.” (Mark 9:23).  With the help of the Holy Spirit today, it is my prayer that your unbelief can be helped by God’s Word and you can believe.

Believe what?  Believe that God loves you and that He wants you to be happy in an unhappy world, and wants to meet your needs. “My God shall supply all your need according to His in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19).  In this message I would like to discuss "Optimism".  Optimism believes that God can help you.  It is a positive outlook on your circumstances and problems.

Optimism provides power over painful events.  Optimism gives you power over fear of the future and over regret for the past.  You can learn a set of skills that free you from the tyranny of pessimism and will allow you to use optimism when you choose.  Each of us carries a word in our hearts, a “no”, or a “yes” in deciding how we think of situations.

There are two kinds of people and they look at life in two different ways.  First there is the pessimists.  They live in fear. They say “no” to trying again after a failure.   They tend to believe bad events will last a long time and will undermine everything they do, and often blame themselves or others..  Secondly, the optimists, when confronted with the same hard knocks of this world, think about their misfortune in the opposite way. They say “yes” to starting over after a failure. They tend to believe defeat is just a temporary setback and it is due to circumstances or bad luck..  They perceive their problems as a challenge and try harder.  They have learned what Jesus meant when he told His disciples “Be of good cheer; it is I, be not afraid. (Matthew 14:27).  He was telling them to be optimistic in the storms of life for He is there with us.

Our Lord wants us to be optimistic in difficult times and even be happy when the world around us is not a happy place.  “In this world, you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world.”  (John 16:33).  Optimistic people become successes in school, at work, on the playing field and in relationships.  They are successful because of what they do when they feel they have run up against a brick wall.  What one does is the difference between helplessness and success,  They learn how to keep going and do not quit.  The child of God says and believes: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).

The way we think about life can actually diminish or enlarge the control we have over it.  The pessimist can become paralyzed by fear and the very thought “Nothing I do matters”, prevents them from acting.  Pessimistic prophecies are self-fulfilling..  One of the most significant findings in psychology in the last twenty years is that individuals can choose the way they think.  Isn’t it amazing that the Bible told us about this 4000 years ago:  “For as a person thinks in his heart, so is he”  (Proverbs 23:7).  And our Lord Jesus told us how important it is the way we think.  “A good person out of the good treasure of the heart, brings forth good things, and an evil person out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.” (Matthew 12:35).

It is important about what you believe and say to yourself.  It is important the way you explain things to yourself.  If you have a pessimistic conversation with yourself you are more likely to get depressed easily, second, you are probably achieving less in your life than your talents could produce, and third, your physical health is probably not what it should be and may even get worse as you get older.  Ask yourself: “What good will it do me to dwell on these negative feelings and thoughts?”

The Lord is saying to us all today, to think about how you treat yourself and in turn others.  “You have planted much, and bring in little; you eat, but you have not enough, you drink, but you are not filled with drink; you put clothes on yourself, but there in no warmth;; and he that earns wages, earns wages to put into bags with holes.  Thus says the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways.”  (Haggai 1:6-7).  This is what happens to people who live a life of pessimism.  Will you “Consider your ways”?

You may say that you cannot help the way you feel, but you can control what you think.  And when you control what you think and what you say to yourself, your feelings will change.  “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.” (Philippians 4:8).

It is not easy to change, but it is possible.  Happiness is a choice, and a choice that the Lord Jesus desires to help you with. “I have come that they may have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10).

Will you be happy in this unhappy world?  It depends on how you talk to yourself and if you will let God help your unbelief.

BEING HAPPY IN AN UNHAPPY WORLD - PART ONE

BEING HAPPY IN AN UNHAPPY WORLD  PART ONE

“I have come that you might have life, and that you might have it more abundantly.”  (John 10:10).

“These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” (John 15:11)

In the next few sermons, the Holy Spirit wants to reveal to all of us the hidden or lost principles of happiness.  There have been many books and articles written on the subject of happiness and it is my desire that the Lord will show us through His Word and the wisdom He has given others, how to “Be Happy in an Unhappy World”.

Millions of people throughout the world have become so used to not being happy that they barely even notice it. They have accepted unhappiness and think it is normal.  Even great men in the Bible, like David found themselves wondering why they were unhappy at times.  “What are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you troubled within me?  Hope in God: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” (Psalm 42:11).  But notice David knew it was still possible to find happiness. Happiness is possible for all of us who love the Lord, because He has desired that quality to be in all of us. Happiness is neither a mood nor an emotion. 


 Happiness is a way of life.  An outlook composed  of qualities such as:  optimism, courage, love, and fulfillment.  It is amazing how quickly people can begin to change, once they start dealing with their whole lives, not just their feelings. 

 “Being Happy in an Unhappy World” requires some understanding and some soul work.  It requires that you ask the same question David did:  “What are you cast down, O my soul?”.  Then it requires that you find some answers.

There is another word for happiness and that is “peace”.  This is a word our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ often used.  “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you; not as the world gives to you.  Let not your heart be troubled,neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27).

Fear is the greatest enemy of happiness.  Fear fits in to one of two categories:

Fear of not having enough. Fear of not being enough.  There are many faces of fear - perfectionism, obsession, insecurity, shyness, guilt, and many more.  We often try to make sense of our pain by assuming that it is outside forces that are causing our pain.  We blame others, our jobs, the traffic, etc.  It is really some inner turmoil that is causing us to have fears and be unhappy.  We will discuss fear and how to deal with it in another sermon.

Your mind, body, and spirit, working together can make you happy.  Sometimes when our minds and bodies are shattered by life it is only our spirit that can heal us and keep us alive.  

This is why you need to be “born again”, to have the Holy Spirit guiding your spirit to overcome things that are making you unhappy.  “The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, who the Father will send in My Name, He shall teach you all things.” (John 14:26).

To begin this journey of “Being Happy in an Unhappy World”, let us look at a few things we can work on to receive the happiness the Lord wants to give us.

LOVE.  We often think that being loved is the best feeling in the world when the best is loving someone else.  It is the antidote to feat and the first step toward happiness. “This is my commandment, That you love one another, as I have loved you.”  (John 15:12).  Isn’t it odd that the Lord had to command us to love?  That would remind us that Love is more than just a feeling, it is an action.  Demonstrate your love by actions this week. 

OPTIMISM.  Optimism provides power over painful events.  Optimism gives you power over fear of the future and over regret for the past.  God wants to remind us that he has a great future for those who love Him.  “Eye has not seen, nor has ears heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man, the things God has prepared for them that love Him.”  (I Corinthians 2:9).  Speak words of optimism to yourself and to others this week.

COURAGE.  This is the strongest weapon for overcoming the split second power of the fear system.  It is the quality that allows us to thrive instead of just survive.  We have the same promise that God gave to Joshua.  “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be dismayed: for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  (Joshua 1:9).  Step out of your comfort zone and make a decision that will make you and others happy this week.

FREEDOM.  Freedom is choice, and choice is what makes us human.  When we choose, we define who we are.  Everyone has the power to make choices, but unhappy people don’t know they have it.  Choice is available to anyone who has the courage to exercise it.  The Lord Jesus Christ living in your life can give you both the desire and courage to choose happiness.  “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36).  Remind yourself that choice is the father of freedom.  Anyone can choose the course of their lives, but only happy people do it.  Happy people turn away from fear and look at their options and act upon upon them. Make a “freedom choice” this week regardless of how little it is.

THE RESURRECTION MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE

VIDEO LINKS TO THIS WRITTEN SERMON

THE RESURRECTION MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE - PART 1


THE RESURRECTION MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE - PART 2

THE RESURRECTION MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE

All of the natural world talks about the resurrection.  This time of the year we can see plants that look like they were dead come to life as leaves, flowers, and green grass.  Just a few weeks ago the grass was brown and lifeless.  Today, on Resurrection Sunday we see new life all around us.

That must have been what it seemed like to the disciples and the friends of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ just three days before His resurrection. 

 “Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received & on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.   For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, & that He appeared to Peter, & then to the 12.   After that, He appeared to more than 500 of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles, & last of all He appeared to me also."  I Corinthians 15: 1-3).

The Lord Jesus Christ’s resurrection was not a quite observation by only the twelve disciples and a few of His friends.   “And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;  And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,  And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.”   Matthew 27:51-54

“He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God” (Acts 1:3).

Before His resurrection, the cross was known only as an instrument of horrible death, rough wood soaked with human blood. So terrible was this form of execution that the Roman Empire prohibited the crucifixion of Roman citizens. Crucifixion was only for the worst of slaves & enemies of the empire.

But today, because of His resurrection, we wear a replica of the cross as a piece of jewelry, a thing of beauty, for all around the world the cross is seen as a symbol of hope, & a reminder of God’s love for us.

And what about His tomb? Before the resurrection, for most of the world, the grave was looked upon as the final chapter, the closing of a great door, the end of everything.

But because of His resurrection, we can rejoice today that beyond death is where life really begins, & it will never end. That makes you wonder, doesn’t it, why we spend so much time worrying & fretting about material things?  Before the resurrection, death was the end. Before the resurrection, death was the final curtain call. Before the resurrection, all we could do is mourn as those who have no hope.

But after the resurrection, when someone dies, we mourn because we have lost a loved one. But we mourn as people who have great hope because Jesus Christ is alive, & the promise of Scripture is that if He is alive, then we, too, can live forever.  “Do not sorrow, even as others do which have no hope.”  (I Thessalonians 4:13).   Our sins are forgiven by His shed blood, & we have the promise of everlasting life. It changes the whole concept of death itself.

Paul wrote, "O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?" "Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through Jesus Christ, our Lord." (I Corinthians 15:55,57).  You see, the resurrection makes the difference.

Then there is the transformation of time. Before the resurrection, time was a limited thing. The Bible talks about the breath of life that we have in our nostrils, & then it is gone. And there is no promise that when we exhale that we will inhale again. Life is brief indeed.  But on the other side there is Jesus & eternity, & that changes the whole purpose & meaning & scope of our life.

Have you been hearing the voices of hopelessness & despair that seem to be so pervasive today?  If you watch & listen very long, you can be filled with despair. And if the only hope that we have is the hope that this world offers, we have no hope because the message of this world is despair.

In contrast, Jesus said, "I have come to bring you life, & that more abundantly, to show you how to live, to bring you hope & joy & peace & love, to give you a reason for living." (John 10:10).  “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you and that your joy might be full.”  (John 15:11).

One of the greatest human abilities is to alter how we look at things in our life.  This means that no matter how difficult your life may become, you will always have the power to rise above suffering.  The act of choice is so powerful, that we can choose to live a new life - a resurrected life.

Whatever your problem is today, because of the resurrection, there is hope for you.  There is the possibility of new life for your dreams. and hope as you look at new life all around you.  I would encourage all of us not to look at this Sunday as just another holiday, but a message from Heaven of God’s love for all of us.  Today you can begin to make better choices that will lead to true happiness.  This begins from within, like a seed in the ground.  

Let the Lord Jesus Christ walk with you as He did he disciples after His resurrection.  None of us ever remain the same.  We are always changing as the new growth in spring does. We can allow life’s weeds to grow up all around us and not experience our resurrection, or we can thrive instead of just survive.  New life is a choice.  Allowing the Lord to give us new life is also a choice.  He showed Himself alive to many who loved Him after His resurrection, and today He is still showing Himself real to all who seek Him.