“Life’s Journey”

Posted by Wayne Radd on Jul 21, 2019 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

Life: It’s so interesting and filled with many twists and turns in direction! Have you ever wondered how and why life’s course was charted from childhood to the present day? For myself I never imagined my “Life Journey” would be like it has been!

Looking back and reflecting about my Life’s Journey I must acknowledge these truths:

     1) I am grateful for All the Blessings –

            * Great Parents and Brother

            * Loving and supportive Grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles

            * Skills gained working hard with my Father

           * My Encounter with Jesus at 10 years old

           * My Christian walk and Call to Christian Ministry spanning over 30yrs.

           * My Wife, Son and his Wife

* Life as a Grandparent

The list could go on and on-

2) I also recognize “Life’s Journey” is challenged by the Demands of Work, the weariness of the daily grind, and multitude of concerns in our Personal Life and Christian Ministry.

If you consider your “Life Journey” as I have you’ll find similar truths will be identified.  I believe you would voice similar expressions of gratitude and speak of many of “Life’s Challenges.”  No matter the variety of details and life experiences this fact is sure: “Our Life’s Journey” is not “Just a Short Trip, but A Life-time Walk filled with many vast experiences.” 

With that in mind Two Primary Questions must then be addressed:

1. What will we do regarding Life’s Journey and All its Demands?

* How will we handle Life’s Blessings as well as its Challenges?

* Will we become Filled with Arrogant Pride or will we Walk in Humility?

* Would Anger take hold and consume us when life doesn’t go as planned?

* Am I setup to remain Steadfast and Determined or will I give up and quit on Life’s Journey?

            2) Most Important: We must ask ourselves “Who Will We Walk Life’s Journey With?”  Consider two passages from God’s Word. In Amos 3:3 we are asked, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?”  In Eccl. 4:12 Solomon declares: “And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.”

            Just as the biblical saints of old, are we willing to walk out “God’s Appointed Journey Road” no matter where it leads while simultaneously dealing with the demands occurring on life’s path?

Abraham was called by God to leave homeland and family to travel to the land He would show him. Later in life God again directed Abraham to take Isaac, God’s promised heir, and travel to Mt. Moriah where he would be tested. This act of obedience provided a foreshadowing of what would follow on Mt. Moriah. Friends, Mt. Moriah, the place of the Scull, is the very place where Jesus would be crucified. God truly “Provided for Himself The Lamb” (Gen. 22:8).

            Joseph was sold into Egyptian slavery by his brothers. God positioned him to direct a massive survival strategy which spared multitudes from starvation. After the death of his father he was approached by his brothers. Rather than seek out revenge as they expected he declared, “Do not be afraid, for am I in God’s place?  And as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result to preserve many people alive.” (Gen. 50:19-20).

            Esther, you recall, was chosen to be the King’s wife only to be challenged by Mordecai on behalf of the Jewish people. Hear the words which span the ages: “Who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).  No matter our position or status, like Esther, God will use willing vessels “For times such as this.” [Divine Appointments for His Divine Purposes and Glory]

            Consider finally, “Saul-Paul”. An avid student of the Law, rising star among the Pharisaic ranks, and a notorious persecutor of the Christian Church. On his vengeful journey to Damascus to arrest Believers Saul’s encounter with Jesus totally altered his “Life’s Journey!” Saul’s Conversion experience and Calling as a “Chosen Instrument” of God brought him to proclaim the Gospel to Gentile Nations, Kings, and the Sons of Israel. Paul’s Journey brought forth multitudes of Blessings, as well as, an onslaught of personal sufferings!  Paul’s declaration in Phil. 3:7-14 serves to challenge every Believer regarding our “Life Calling and Journey!”                                                             

“But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that
for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

So, Friend: “The Journey”… As You and I walk Life’s Path, we must realize:

“Jesus is Calling!”

            First, Jesus says,

            “Come to Me” — “I Am the Bread of Life” You will not hunger and as a believer in Jesus will never thirst” (Jn. 6:35). He promises, (Mt. 6:28-30) “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

• Confess and declare the words of this beautiful hymn, “All to Jesus, I surrender…” {Yield, Obey, Serve Jesus with all your might}

            Secondly, Volunteer Freely to His “Journey Call”

            Like Isaiah, touched by the Lord God’s Fire and Power, upon hearing His Word: “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Declare boldly, “Here am I, Send Me.” In (1Pet. 2:9-10), as God’s precious possessions, “so proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”

• Life’s Journey— “I Never Imagined it would be like this” and “I would not change a thing!”
• For My Journey in Jesus: I declare, “I am in God’s Place” and “All the way my Savior Has, Is, and Will Lead me. One Day these words I long to hear: “Well Done thou good and faithful servant, enter into my rest.”
• Finally, for You Friend: What is the story of “Your Life Journey?” What Road are You Traveling? Are you in “God’s Place?” Is Jesus leading You in Life’s Journey? Have You answered His Call and Will You Volunteer Freely to Go Wherever He Would Lead?

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Choices

Posted by Wayne Radd on Jan 10, 2016 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

What time to get up; What to wear, eat, drink, do; Where to go; Who to call and when; What bills to pay “first” and Which insurance to choose; Choices concerning Family – Friends – Work  – Etc. The list goes on…

Yes, we must make choices daily, even multiple choice decisions throughout the day. With this daily task of choosing, consider and ask: “How much time and thought is given to our Spiritual Life choices?” Joshua’s challenge to Israel should still ring loud and clear: “Choose today who you will serve.” Would they – Will WE serve the gods and ways of the world? Or will the choice be to serve faithfully and completely the Lord God Almighty?” (Josh. 24:14-18)

Folks, it’s easy to talk, to declare our love and commitment to serve Jesus. Yet, we must acknowledge the “Fruit of our actions” speak to our real choices and commitments! In truth, only two choices are before us. Jesus identifies and defines them for us: “Enter by the narrow way, for the gate is wide, and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter it. For the gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it.” (Mt. 7:13-14).

Yes, a multitude of choices are before us! Today and everyday make it your clear choice to Pursue and Serve Jesus. “Seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.” (Mt. 6:33) “Choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants.” Choose Jesus for He alone has the words of Eternal Life!

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“Divide & Conquer”—“Forgiveness & Reconciliation”

Posted by Wayne Radd on Sep 16, 2015 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

         

          Strength is found in Agreement! “A three strand cord is not easily broken.” “How can two walk together except they be in Agreement.”

 

          Vulnerability and weakness occur when any divisive wedge begins to penetrate relationships! If the divisive wedge remains and is driven deeper and deeper, like a log being split for firewood, the further the wedge is driven, the wider the separation until total separation occurs. Unlike the beneficial goal of purposely splitting firewood to burn in the fireplace, divisive destruction and separation in relationships leaves a battlefield full of wounded, emotionally devastated lives!

 

          Please ask yourself, what are some of the divisive wedges and tools of Darkness used to break and tear apart our lives? Personally, I would note these specific wedges the enemy uses to drive deep into our lives, seeking to separate and destroy relationships—[Anger, Resentment, Discord, Jealousy, Lies, Distrust, Unforgiveness].

 

          Now consider and ask : Who and what is behind these Divide & Conquer warfare tactics? Who is it that is seeking to destroy our Lives, Marriages, Families, Friendships, and Churches?

 

          It is essential- We recognize the “Pain Inflicted and Ongoing Fallout of these Divisive Separations”—[ Marriages blown apart, Family Members at odds, Homes broken, Friendships gone, at odds with & separated from God, Church splits] All these outcomes can potentially leave us with unimaginable Hurts, deep-seated Bitterness, a heart boiling pot filled with Anger, unexplainable Loneliness, a life outlook of Total Hopelessness!

 

          Realize: All is not lost! The war for human hearts has not ended! There is Hope and, yes, we can find answers to address the Enemy’s Divisive Wedges and Schemes to Divide-Conquer & Destroy!!!

 

          In Jesus, we have a message of Hope and Answers for the divisive assault of darkness! Jesus clearly identifies the wedge tools to divide and destroy Human Hearts and Lives!

 

> Be Aware: The devil is: a murderer, liar, father of lies. He is a thief seeking to steal-kill-destroy. (Jn. 10:10)

> Ask & Receive: God’s Love & Life found in Jesus, for “He came to give us Life Abundantly”

> In Repentance: Experience the removal of all sin wedges. Then, you will find the Full Blessing of Forgiveness and be Reconciled and made right before God in Jesus!

> Daily-At All Times: Keep the Heart Slate clean & right before God. (1Jn. 1:9)

> In Marriage: Don’t let anyone-anything create a breach, wedge of separation, or breaking of your sacred vows made before God and with your spouse!

> Make Certain: Not to hold on to Anger and Unforgiveness. “Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath.” Keep All relationships Right- {With God & Others}

> Refuse: To give Bitterness & Resentment a place to take root in your heart!

> Always Remember: God’s Love in your Life & Heart will “Cover a Multitude of Sins.” So “Forgive and Receive Forgiveness”

 * Friend, What will you choose?

* Divisive wedges that will Tear Apart & Destroy-

* God’s Love & Forgiveness bringing us to right relationships with Him and Others in Jesus-

 

 

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Priorities: Part 2

Posted by Wayne Radd on Jul 3, 2015 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

Priorities in Life: Part 2

“What’s going to happen next?”  Would you ever have believed we would be facing such turmoil as witnessed today?  Terrorism has gripped the world.  Evil and godless values are gushing forth.  The landscape of American culture and morality is changing drastically before our eyes!

 

The Future—  Are you concerned?  Are you wondering, maybe even seeking for ways to gain a glimpse into the futuristic unknown?  Many seeking comfort and direction, concerning the unknown and changing world events, look to “Government” to be their guide.  For others, they seek the “Mystics.”  Yet, personally I rest confidently in God’s Eternal Unchanging Word!  He knows my “Frame and Days.”  He declares: “Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them” (Ps. 139:16).

 

Almighty God alone has full knowledge regarding our lives.  Day by day, if you and I will allow Him, the Holy Spirit will lead and guide us, bringing about His greatest blessings to fulfillment, for His Kingdom glory and our good!

The Future—  Jesus said: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”  David declares in Psalm 37:23, 25, “The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way…I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken Or his descendants begging bread.”  For us to truly realize God’s abundant blessings, Divine guidance, and protection, we must choose to “Enter the Narrow Gate” and travel His “Narrow Way” that leads to Life!  Sadly, multitudes are deceived and pursuing “Life’s Future” on the devil’s broad way of lies, leading to death and destruction (Mt. 7:13-14).

Be Encouraged Today—  Don’t be worried and anxious for tomorrow, for Our God will take care of our tomorrows!  Each day has enough trouble “and concerns” of its own (Mt. 6:34).  Instead, let God’s Word “be a lamp to your feet and a light to your path” (Ps. 119:105).  Listen to the Holy Spirit!  He is Spirit of Truth and “He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come” (Jn. 16:13).

 

Do you realize  “… the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (2Cor. 4:4).  Sadly, folks believe the “Lie rather than the Truth.”

 

Join me in Prayer for:  

 

            1) A Mighty Holy Spirit Revival to come upon “The Church.”

 

            2) The Gospel Doors be opened- That Blinders fall off the Unbelieving-

                  Eyes be opened to see and lives be given totally to Jesus!

 

            3) The Gospel spread like Wildfire with a “Mighty Outpouring of Holy Spirit

                 Demonstrations and Power witnessed and experienced Worldwide!

 

“For Such A Time As This” Believer you are placed upon the Earth!  Answer the Call!  Be Jesus’ vessel of service at this “Defining Moment In History!”

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Priorities

Posted by Wayne Radd on Jun 13, 2015 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

“A Blast From The Past”–  Recently I came across an article I wrote in

 June, 1989.  Interestingly, the message theme resonates powerfully today!

Taking the thoughts of the past, join with me now in being challenged concerning

our “Priorities in Life.”

 

If God allowed us a special glimpse into the future- Five, Ten, maybe even twenty years from now, would things be different from the Present?  Would the course of life be pleasing?  With this glimpse into the future, how might it lead to changes in life right now?

 

Having the Lord giving us such a futuristic gift, I believe we would come to realize many of our present day time consuming adventures and priorities wouldn’t seem so important!  The fact is we might even consider such pursuits worthless!  When looking back at life’s travels, facing and addressing the present day challenges and responsibilities, even dreaming and planning for the future, how can we gauge what our priorities must incorporate?

 

Life on Earth is precious but short!  Our lives are “just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away” (James 4:14).  Isaiah 40:6-8, God’s word declares: “All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field.  The grass withers, the flower fades, When the breath of the LORD blows upon it; Surely the people are grass.  The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.”  I believe Jesus speaks to the “crux of life’s priorities” with these words; “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.  “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.  “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?  “For what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”  “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” (Mark 8:34-38).

            Friends, Jesus said to look at Creation- the birds, grass, even yourself.  He is challenging us to see and know Him as the creator and sustainer of All Life!  Why then are we all so anxious and worried leading to misplaced priorities?  Our Father God knows what we need!  Jesus declares: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”  “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:33-34).

 

Before the Lord Jesus, fix your eyes on Jesus!  Make your Priority in Life be– To Love Jesus your All Your Heart, To set your Heart to Seek and Serve Him daily, To Make Jesus Lord of ALL!  All the other things will find their proper place as you fulfill God’s Highest for your life and service unto Him!

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“How Much Is Enough?”

Posted by Wayne Radd on May 5, 2015 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

We’ve all heard, maybe even said:  If only I had- “A New Phone-Faster Computer-Newer Car-Bigger House-A Million Dollars-etc.,” BUT THEN WHAT?

 

Searching and longing for STUFF will never satisfy!  Something new, better, bigger, will always come along and capture one’s appetite!

 

No matter our earthly status or wealth-[if exalted or unknown; having abundance or facing lack]—the fact is: It is the “Blessing of The Lord that makes us Rich.”  Earthly position, status, possessions are only temporary and easily come and go!  In Jesus, we are privileged to serve and proclaim the Power and Blessings of God’s Eternal Kingdom!

 

Realize Today:

1) In Christ Jesus are “hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Col 2:3)

2) In Jesus, as Peter declares: “you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD,

A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may

proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His

marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE

OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.”

3) Because of Jesus’ Redemption, “He has made us to be a “kingdom and priests to our

God; and we will reign upon the earth.” (Rev. 5:10)

4) No matter what may come in this life, no one and nothing “shall separate us from the

love of Christ.”  …But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who

loved us.  For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities,

nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any

other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ

Jesus our Lord.  (Rom. 8:35, 37-39)

5) Our Lord God is “Jehovah Jireh.”  As we obediently obey and serve Him, He will “supply

all our needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus!” (Phil. 4:19)

How Much Is Enough? 

Our Lord God is “More than Enough, Now and Forever.”

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Expectations for 2015 Part 3: “Reflection: Memories of Time Past”

Posted by Wayne Radd on Apr 21, 2015 in Words From Our Pastor | 0 comments

Reflection:  Memories of time past.  Thoughts of Success and moments of Failing, Joys and Sorrows– For some, the past continues to haunt, emotionally cripple, even steal away opportunities of the present and future.

 

As each day quickly passes, hear the exhortation of God’s Word; “forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 3:13-14)

 

Yes, friend, we all carry past memories.  Yet, be challenged now and anew to fix your eyes on Jesus, for He has precious dreams and goals before you, this year and beyond!

 

Christian friends, it is critical we recognize the urgency of the hour.  We must look beyond ourselves and see the needs of broken hurting humanity.  I urge you, please hear and heed the call and commands of Jesus:  “Go into all the world and preach the gospel.”  Go tell the “Good News” –Jesus Saves, Heals, and Delivers!  Go by the power of the Holy Spirit and make Disciples!  Jesus alone can; “Heal Broken Hearts and Memories!”  Jesus alone can give “Hope and be our Peace in a world filled with turmoil!”

 

Christian Believers; Join me in Believing and Expecting a Mighty Move of God to “Win the Lost and for a Great Revival” to sweep across our Nation and The World in 2015!

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