Mid-Week Encouragement July 24th, 2024

We have spent the last two months looking at the book of James. I have mentioned many times how much I love this book, as well as how, although there is not a lot of theology in James, there is a lot of "meat of understanding." The entire book can be read in a matter of 20 minutes but is filled with so much helpful information for Christians on dealing with the trials and tribulations we face.

It also gives us a measure of our true faith. A test where we can examine ourselves to see if we have the saving faith required or if we are merely deceiving ourselves with a counterfeit hope of Salvation.

Do we have a dead faith, filled with knowledge of God's Word, but no response or action? Do we have a Demonic Faith, knowing the truth of God's existence and responding with fear but no repentance? Or do we truly have the Saving Faith, knowing the word of God, responding, and living it out, walking in the Spirit of God?

In my life, I have met far too many who claim Christianity, know the verses, how to pray, all the stuff that a Christian should know, but never truly repented of their sin, never truly lived out their faith, all talk, no action.

The end is near. Nearer than you think because we sometimes think of the Judgment of Christ being far off; however, the truth of the matter is we stand before Him after we die, and none of us is promised tomorrow. All we truly have is TODAY to get right with the Lord. So do not wait.

SERMON FROM LAST SUNDAY

Here is the audio if you prefer to listen.

READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR

With Hebrew Scholar Chad Bird from 1517, a nonprofit organization that exists to declare and defend the Good News that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ alone.

https://www.1517.org/oneyear

PRAYER REQUESTS

For Pastor's right eye

Abigail's friend for fostering baby

For two month old

For Julie, Edward and Vivienne

Kari - Praise for answered prayers

Angie's chemo going well

Our nation

J for salvation

lost loved ones and family

THIS MONTH'S BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES