Mathew 6:5-18 The Message (MSG) Scripture focus: 1 Prayer and fasting is not optional for a disciple. It is a Biblical Mandate • Corporate fast Joel 1:14 New King James Version (NKJV) 14 Consecrate a fast Call a sacred assembly; Gather the elders And all the inhabitants of the land Into the house of the Lord your God, And cry out to the Lord. Joel 2:15-16 New King James Version (NKJV) 15 Blow the [a]trumpet in Zion, Consecrate a fast, Call a sacred assembly; 16 Gather the people,Sanctify the congregation, Assemble the elders, Gather the children and nursing babes; Let the bridegroom go out from his chamber, And the bride from her dressing room. 2 When we practice spiritual disciplines Jesus warns us to check our motives 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face

Luke 4:43, But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” Japanese Proverb-The best room in your house is the room for improvement. I. Be sensitive to confirmations verses 2,9b Revelation 22:16,“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you [a] this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” . II. Be aware of distractions verses 3, 7: Book -The Prophetic Imagination, Walter Brueggemann In 2018 U.S. adults spent three hours and 48 minutes a day and it’s nearly triple between the ages 8-18. It’s been projected the average person will spend more than five years of their lives on social media. Constant Contact III. Be willing to sacrifice, verses 10-11 Read your daily devotion. Joining a Small group. Serving in ministry. Give generously Attending church consistently IV. Be receptive to a new way: 12 Celebrate - African heri

It’s time to put some closure on this? Matthew 2:19-23 Dr. Michael L. Bowie,Jr., Senior Pastor CLOSURE REQUIRES BEING COURAGEOUS AND OPEN FOR CHANGE Matthew 1:20, But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. CLOSURE COMPELS US TO RELEASE OUR PAST IN ORDER TO MOVE FORWARD TO THE FUTURE Isaiah 6:1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Remember if it doesn’t challenge you it can’t change you! CLOSURE REQUIRES A LEVEL OF OBEDIENCE Matthew 2:21, So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. Don’t let fear keep you stuck in your places of comfort! End of year Challenge: Be willing to let go of difficult people Be willing to let go of destructive habits Be will

Love appears unexpectedly to the Poor & Oppressed! Luke 2:6-7 Dr. Michael L. Bowie, Jr., Senior Pastor Galatians 4:4, 4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law. GOD HAS ALWAYS HAD A HEART FOR THE POOR Isaiah 41:17,“The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the LORD will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them. 1 John 4:8-9, 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him Luke 4:18, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, Luke 9:58, Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay

Psalm 146:9, The LORD watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked. Psalm 50:6 And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for he is a God of justice. Immigrant Funny “Old Age” Quotes I recently saw some neat quotes about getting older and aging. Age is a case of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it don't matter. Sactchel Paige You can't help getting older, but you don't have to get old. George Burns In Leviticus 19:32, 32 Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD. The number of seniors in American between the (ages 65 and older) will more than double between 2016 and 2060, skyrocketing from 46 million to 98 million. Forbes Of all the forms of inequality, injustice, healthcare is the most shocking and inhuman.” Dr. Martin L. King Jr. HOLY SPIRIT PROVIDES REASSURANCE v 25-26 John 14:16 (KJV) And I will pray the Father, and he

“God Appears to Mary” Luke 1:26-38 Rev. Payton Parker | Associate Pastor

John 1:14, The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. Isaiah 9:6, For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. God sent Jesus to balance the scales of injustice, whether it socially, politically, or economically. Advent is a time to remember that the birth of Jesus was ultimately to balance the scales of injustice for marginalized and oppressed people. Psalm 50:6 And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for he is a God of justice. GOD APPEARS TO HARD WORKING PEOPLE. V. 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel

Are we willing to trust God in tough times? Psalm 20:7, Luke 16:13 EMEMBER WHERE AND WHO TO PUT OUR TRUST IN Luke 16:13, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” Indication that money is your master: 1. If you constantly think and worry about it. 2. If you spend more time taking care of possessions. 3. If it’s difficult to tithe and give to others. 4. If you are in extreme debt. Matthew 6:21, For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Psalm 27:1, The LORD is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid? REMEMBER TO NOT ALLOW A SPIRIT OF FEAR TO CAUSE YOU TO LIVE WITH A SCARCITY MINDSET. Book The Soul of Money by, Lynn Twist REMEMBER TO TRUST MEANS HAVE AN EXPECTATION IN SOMETHING OR SOMEONE.

Men's Day 2018 Theme: Keep It Moving

"Points": D.N.R. Desperate for a change, Need to See Past the Pronouncement Resurrection not Resuscitation D.N.R. - Definitely Needs Resurrection

Theodicy (theos) God, dike’ (justice). Theodicy- is the attempt to affirm divine Justice, despite the evil and suffering in our world. Understanding Suffering: Suffering is UNIVERSAL- Suffering is INESCAPABLE Suffering is REDEMPTIVE DOING RIGHT DOES NOT EXEMPT YOU FROM SUFFERING. Integrity-“Doing what is right not what is easy.” Proverbs 13:6, Righteousness guards the person of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner. GOD CONTROLS HOW MUCH WE WILL SUFFER

*FIRM FOUNDATIONS ARE BUILT ON THE WORD OF GOD Psalm 62.2, Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. 1 Corinthians 3:10, I laid a foundation like a wise master builder according to God’s grace that was given to me, but someone else is building on top of it. Each person needs to pay attention to the way they build on it. *STRENGTH OF THE FOUNDATION IS IN THE REBAR [Spiritual Rebar] Worship Witness Works of Social Justice

Matthew 5:6, Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. DISCIPLES ARE ALWAYS HUNGRY FOR MORE OF GOD A disciple is a witness to Jesus Christ in the world who follows His teachings through acts of compassion, justice, worship, and devotion under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Book of Discipline 2012 Par.1117.2 MEMBERSHIP DISCIPLESHIP Obligation (Duty) Aspiration (Desire) Seek to be Served Seek to Serve others Me driven Mission driven Characteristics of a Maturing Disciple: Worship regularly Connects to Community Practices Spiritual Disciplines Commits to Generosity and Service Commits to becoming more like Jesus THE CHURCH HAS POWER WHEN WE BECOME EFFECTIVE WITNESSES Matthew 5:13, 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampl

A. The Church provides space for genuine fellowship Psalm 133:1,3 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore. Mark 3:25, 25 If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. B. The lack of fellowship leads to loneliness C. Genuine fellowship leads to authentic community D. The Church provides space for compassionate care Psalm 73:2 But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.

God will assign someone to pull you out of Darkness Sin can keep us from seeing our personal flaws and brokenness Matthew 7:2-3, For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? Disobedience activates generational curses Confession of Sins realigns us with God’s perfect will Confession leads to repentance Psalm 51:10-13, Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. 13 Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You. Redemption from sin is messy

Ephesians 2:1-3, As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath . Philippians 3:20, But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. By justification we are saved from the guilt of sin..by sanctification we are saved from the Power and root of sin. John Wesley Complacency leads to destruction! Ephesians 4:27, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. David would realize that any form of idleness gives room to the enemy. Matthew 5:28, 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Conce

Movie: Marshall Movie Trailer: https://youtu.be/C_bfOWof0Sg Conviction leads to a personal mission Romans 2:22-23, You who say, “Do not commit adultery,” do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5QcP... Conversion produces a testimony 1 Timothy 1:15, Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. Jeremiah 33:14, ‘The days are coming,’ declares theLORD, ‘when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the people of Israel and Judah. Convinced of God’s saving power Acts 26:31, After they left the room, they began saying to one another, “This man is not doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment.”

Inspiring Gospel Message from "A Wrinkle in Time"

St. Luke at The Movies part 1: The Gospel According to Black Panther: Acts 4:32-37 Dr.Michael L. Bowie, Jr., Senior Pastor Clips from the sermon , click links below Trailer link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjDjI... The Challenge: T'Challa and M'Baku https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbUQV... The Ending:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5lnj... Sermon Notes Holy Spirit had a two-fold affect Exousia (Authority) Dynamos (Dynamite) Power. Understood the power of unity Acts 4:32 32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. Obedience to God’s word enhances God’s grace. God’s grace leads to abundance. 4:34-35 there was no needy person among them. And from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the Apostles feet and distributed to any one who had need. Recognized their possessions were for

Genesis 8:21c-22: And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done. 22 “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” Galatians 6:7, Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Luke 6:38, says give and it shall be given unto you. Good measure pressed down shaken together and running over. Shall be poured into your lap.

Recognize your pain as a possibility vs 16 Remember your pain has purpose Verse 17: Realize your pain will change your perspective Join us for Sunday Worship 8 am and 11 am 5710 E. R. L. Thornton Frwy Dallas, Texas 75223 214.821.2970 visit www.slcumc.org facebook:St. Luke Community: Dallas twitter:stlukecommun­ity instagram:StLukeMedia

Stuck on performance trap: ? We become distracted from major priorities and get consumed by our own achievements. ? We become perfectionist, fearing we won’t meet the approval of others. ? We grow weary because we attempt to do too much for the wrong reasons. ? We become preoccupied with ME more that WE: When you get free from this trap: ? You gain a healthy Identity: ? You make better choices and decisions ? You realize your God-given purpose ? You possesses more energy & creativity Join us for Sunday Worship 8 am and 11 am 5710 E. R. L. Thornton Frwy Dallas, Texas 75223 214.821.2970 visit www.slcumc.org facebook:St. Luke Community: Dallas twitter:stlukecommun­ity instagram:StLukeMedia

Luke 4:18, Jesus said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free. “If it’s not Good news for the Poor then it’s not GOOD NEWS!” James Cone The Way Forward: One Church Model: Galatians 3:28, There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Born of the Spirit is connected with our new birth and the gift of Salvation. Ephesians 2:28, For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. Baptized or Filled with the Spirit: Means to be controlled, consumed or under the influence of the presence of God. Acts 2:4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Galatians 5:22-23, 22 But the fruit of the Spi

Unity Worship Core values: Are the fundamental beliefs of a person or organization. They are the guiding principles that dictate behavior and can help people and companies with fulfilling their goals without wavering or compromise. Our core values: WE… Celebrate: Our African heritage, dynamic transformation, spirit-filled praise and worship Embrace: diversity and inclusiveness, and caring and nurturing of the village Educate: through reflective study of scripture, and support academic excellence and higher education Dedicate our selves: to Community involvement, struggle for liberation and social justice, stewardship, prayer, and spiritual discipline.

Three Simple Questions, Knowing the God of Love, Hope and Purpose. Bishop Rueben P Job God is a supreme almighty being; God is omniscience (all knowing), God is omnipotent (all power) God is Omnipresence (everywhere). God-the Father (Creator), God-the Son Jesus (Redeemer) God-the Holy Spirit (Sustainer) God is Everlasting/Eternal (Psalm 90:2), God is Unchanging (Exodus 3:14) God is Holy (Psalm 99:5) God is Righteous (Psalm 119:137) God is GOOD (Psalm 118:1) God is Truth/Life (Jeremiah 10:10) God of Justice (Psalm 50:6)

Mark 9:31, He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise. HE GOT UP TO REMOVE OUR LIMITED VISION HE GOT UP TO RESURRECT OUR HOPES AND DREAM HE GOT UP TO REMIND US THAT WORD OF GOD HAS POWER Romans 8:11, And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

It is Finished- “HIS WORK ON EARTH WAS DONE!” Luke 19:10 says, For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Philippians 1:6, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is Finished-“THE BATTLE IS ALREADY WON!”

Dr. Andy Stoker brings a powerful word on the 5th saying from the cross "I am Thirsty"

Psalm 22:1, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? 7 Symptoms of Abandonment ? Intrusive, debilitating anxiety ? Chronic feelings of insecurity ? Chronic depression ? Decreased self esteem ? Self-deprecation ? Isolation ? Obsessive thinking about the abandonment When we are stuck in a dark place: ? Study God’s word, ? Saturate yourself in community ? Seek out Professional help

THAT NOTHING IS PERFECT, LIFE IS MESSY AND RELATIONSHIPS ARE COMPLEX. Unknown author You have to follow Jesus for yourself, but you can’t follow Jesus by yourself. Steven Furtick Kingdom principals from a Counter cultural perspective: ? Matthew 5:40, if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. ? Matthew in Matthew 5:41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. ? Matthew 10:39, whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.

Ephesians 2:8, For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. The house of Salvation. THE PORCH- John Wesley compared prevenient grace to the porch in front of the house. This is grace that comes before we know God. When we experience prevenient grace, God has invited us into the house, but we haven’t yet accepted the invitation. THE DOOR- John Wesley compared justifying grace to the door of the house. Justifying grace is when we accept the fact that we are forgiven of sin and guilt. The through the Holy Spirit we respond to God’s invitation and open the door into God’s house, we are right with God and have assurance that our sins are forgiven (We are saved). THE INTERIOR-When we experience justifying grace, we enter the house. And once we’re in the house, there are a lot of rooms for us to explore. Sanctifying grace is the grace that guides us when we’re inside the house, helping us mature in faith and live

Forgiveness is always rooted in grace: Ephesians 1:7, In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. “Allow grace to take the blame, cover the shame and remove the stain that has caused years of pain.” Brain Zahnd, Unconditional, the call of Jesus to radical forgiveness, GRACE ALWAYS TAKES THE HIGH ROAD! Forgiving the Unforgivable, by Beverly Flanigan, 5 steps toward a journey of healing our injury: 1. Naming the injury: 2. Claiming the injury: 3. Blaming the one who injures: 4. Balancing the scales: 5. Choosing to forgive:

Proverbs 18:24. There are persons for companionship, but then there are friends who are more loyal than family (CEB) Seven Types of love: 1. Eros: Love of the body 2. Philia: Love of the mind 3. Ludus: Playful love 4. Philautia: Love of the self 5. Storge: Love of the child 6. Agape: Love of the soul 7. Pragma: Longstanding Love

1 Timothy 6:10, For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. ? According to a study by American Psychological Association that almost three-quarters of Americans are experiencing financial stress at least some of the time, and nearly a quarter of us are experiencing extreme financial stress. ? According to CNBC finances and money issues are the leading cause of stress and a major factor in divorce ? National Suicide prevention reported in 2017 that one of the main causes of suicide is financial challenges. NEVER CURSE YOUR CRISIS.

Proverbs 18:21, Death and life are in the power of the tongue. “WE HAVE TWO EARS AND ONE MOUTH THAT WE MAY LISTEN MORE AND TALK LESS." Greek Proverb 5 th Habit First seek to understand, then to be understood Steven Covey in classic book 7 Habits to Highly Effective People, Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” James verse 8 that no human being can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil and full of deadly poison. JESUS IS NOT ONLY LORD OVER OUR LIVES BUT LORD OVER OUR LIPS. Proverbs 21:23, Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity. Matthew 12:34b “34b, For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. Psalm 119:11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Join us for Sunday Worship 8 am and 11 am 5710 E. R. L. Thornton Frwy Dallas, Texas 75223 214.821.2970 visit www.slcumc.org facebook:St. Luke Community: Dallas twitter:stlukec

1 Corinthians 6:19 19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own. 1 Corinthians 10:31, So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Hebrews 12:11, No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. #Get out of my Way, The average person lives 75 years 27,375 days. Will Murphy TIME WASTED IS OPPORTUNITY LOST! Romans 12:1, Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. For 21 days we will be fasting ? To receive answers to prayer ? To overcome grief ? To increase our faith ? To receive clarity and better discernment to detect the voice of God. Join us for Sunday Worship 8 am and 11 am 571

RESET As we begin a new year we are kicking off a 6-week series to RESET whatever it is in our lives that is not functioning optimally. To “reset” something is to restore it to its original design, its original purpose, its original intent. It is literally “to set again.” To reestablish. To reengage. To rearrange, or reorganize. We “reset” something back to how it was supposed to be all along. In 2018 in order to experience a new beginning it’s time to RESET For 21 days we will be fasting ? To receive answers to prayer ? To overcome grief ? To increase our faith ? To receive clarity and better discernment to detect the voice of God.

Dr. King’s final book Where do we from here Chaos or community? “So early in my life, I had learned that if you want something, you had better make some noise.” Malcolm X Autobiography,

God entered the world in the form a baby to shake things up to forgive our sins and another opportunity to get it right. Jesus came to bring Hope in the midst of Despair, peace in the midst of chaos, joy in times of sorrow and to BRING LOVE IN THE MIDST OF FEAR. 1 John 4:8-9, 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. LOVE IS . . . UNSTOPPABLE Scripture says 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. LOVE IS . . . UNCONDITIONAL And when Shepherds encountered unconditional love the angels praised God saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Today we can rejoice because in the midst of Darkness, God promises that PEACE and Favor will rest on us. LOVE IS . . . UNEXPLAINABLE The Shepherds we so overwhelmed by this uncond

Hope Luke 1:26-38 Mary Surprise..I can’t believe this! This is too good to be true!

Ingredient for Thankfull Living Psalm 118:24 Week 1: Are we maximizing our time? Week 2: Are we maximizing our God-given potential? Week 3: Are we experiencing a divine flow? I. Remember God is Sovereign: Verse 1a This is the day that the Lord has made: Psalms 46:1, God is our refuge and strength, an ever- present help in trouble. Philippians 4:6, Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Book You Win in the Locker Room First II. Remember we a have choice: Verse 1b, let us rejoice and be glad in it! Galatians 5:9 “A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough.” Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Philippians 4:12, I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether wel

Are we experiencing a divine flow? 2 Kings 4:1-7 Dr. Michael L. Bowie,Jr., Senior Pastor I. Seek wise counsel: Verse 1-2 Psalm 34:17, The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles . John 6:8-9 9 “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” II. Participate in your miracle: Verse 3-4 Matthew 17:20b, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. Malachi 3:10, Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. III. Increase your obedience: 5-6, I Corinthians 15:33, Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” IV. Expect to experience

I. RECOGNIZE we all have gifts: verse 10 II. REMEMBER to embrace your gifts: verse 11 III. REALIZE our gifts are for God’s glory verse 11c

Are we reclaiming our time? Ephesians 5:15-17,20 I. Be AWARE of fatal distractions: v. 15 II. Be READY to seize the moment v16 III. Be WILLING to shift our priorities V. 17

Serving Matters! I. Intentional separation Verse 32-33, 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. SHEEP GOATS Quite & Gentle Aggressive & Rude Domesticated & tame Rambunctious & wild Sheep prefer still waters Goats prefer troubled waters Sheep depend on the Shepherd Goats depend on Self Matthew 9:36, When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 15:24, He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” John 10:14-15, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down

1.You are not in this alone. 2. Run your race with purpose. 3. Get rid of the things that hold you back and the sin that entangles you. 4. Look to Jesus the author and perfecto of our faith.

The Jefferson's Dilemma Be Fruitful Remember God's Promise 1- don't let the process keep you from the purpose. 2. Be fruitful individuals, because God has your back 3. Everything we do connects back to the promise.

I. Beware of Procrastination: Matthew 7:13, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. Luke 9:62: Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” II. By pass short cuts: Matthew 7:14; But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.

Are we choosing the right path? Mark 10:17-27 I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference I. Be willing to take PERSONAL responsibility: verse 17-19 Matthew 6: 24 II. Be ready to totally SURRENDER: Verse 21-22Psalm 139:1,14 Acts 17:28? III. Be prepared to TRUST the process: Verse 23-25 Proverbs 3:5-6

John 8:1-11 Following Jesus is more that Rules. Matthew 5:17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I. Be aware of being JUDGMENTAl: John 8:3-4 3 Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, 4 they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act.

I. Why Are You Here? II. Are You fully committed? III. Are you ready to make the shift? Commit to reading and doing your daily devotion Commit to signing up for bible study Commit to attending Wednesday night E2 Commit to praying for our political leaders and for injustice plaguing our nation.

Points: 1) You don’t know what I’m capable of 2) You don’t understand why I do what I do 3) You think too highly of yourself

SERVANTS Focus on others See’s ministry as standard Take risk Give sacrificially Go the extra mile VOLUNTEER Focus on self View it as an option Play it safe Give reluctantly Do just enough I. Serving requires SACRIFICE: vs. 16, This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. II. Serving requires COMPASSION: vs. 17, If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? III. Serving requires ACTION: vs. 18, Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

The Shack:Forgiveness Scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c12WG... I. Remember forgiveness is a REQUIREMENT: Verse 14, For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. II. Recognize that forgiveness is DIFFICULT: Verse 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. From Hurt to Healing, Dr. Andrew Sung Park states that Dr. Richard Fitzgibbons offers us (6) Steps to forgive: 1. Admit your anger. 2. Decide to forgive. 3. Do no harm. 4. Consider the source. 5. Practice intentional empathy. 6. Give yourself some time. III. Realize that forgiveness leads to WHOLENESS: Luke 6:37-38. Luke 6:37-38, 37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the meas

I. God’s heart is NOT Critical vs 1,2 II. God’s heart is NOT Distorted vs 3-5 III. God’s heart IS Discerning vs 6

How do I handle a Faith Crisis? Matthew 14:22-33 Biblical Characters who suffered with Faith Crisis: Moses: Numbers 11:14-15 Elijah: 1 Kings 19:4 Job: Job 3:11 I. Be willing to get out your COMFORT ZONE: Verse 28-29 II. Be willing to ignore DISTRACTIONS: Verse 30 III. Be willing to reach out for the RIGHT HELP: Verse 31-32

I. Remain CONFIDENT in times of uncertainty: II. Remain CONNECTED to the right source: III. Remain CONVINCED that everything will work out: Category

I. Realize that life is never PAIN FREE: verse 1a John 16:33 II. Remember you are NEVER ALONE: verse 1b Deuteronomy 31:8 III. Recognize that LOVE will always make the difference: 1 Peter 4:8

Ecclesiastes 3:1, there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. Leviticus 13:46, As long as they have the disease they remain unclean. They must live alone; they must live outside the camp. I. Be willing to call out to God: Verse 12-13 Psalm 27:7, Hear my voice when I call, LORD; be merciful to me and answer me. II. Be willing to Participate in your healing: vs. 14 Leviticus 13:17, The priest is to examine them, and if the sores have turned white, the priest shall pronounce the affected person clean; then they will be clean. III. Be willing to give God thanks and praise: verse 15-16 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Rejoice always,  17  pray continually,  18  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. [Picture of giving God praise] IV. Be willing to separate from ungrateful people: verse 17-19:

Have you ever found your self after completing something that you worked so hard for then you found yourself saying what’s next? After you completed 12 years of high school you said what’s next? After completing your undergraduate studies you looked at your Bachelors degree and said what’s next? Maybe some of you are nearing retirement or at a place in your life and you’re saying to yourself that it’s got to be more and the question you are asking yourself is; WHAT’S NEXT? Some of you have been married a long time and your asking yourself..What’s NEXT? Many of you have look at the direction ofour church and you are asking the question..What’s NEXT? Well as human beings there’s a deep longing or yearning that’inside that begs the question…WHAT”S NEXT?

Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 1. Pentecost gives us the power of partnership 2. Pentecost gives us the power of perception 3. Pentecost gives us the power to provide permanent change

“From Lo Debar to the King’s Table: It’s Time to Move!” 2 Samuel 9:1-11 (NIV) Dr. Paula Dobbs-Wiggins closes out Women's Month with a powerful word from the Lord!

Empowering Women to Pass Life's Tests: It's Only a Test May 21, 2017 Genesis 22:1-14 Rev. Connie C.J. Jackson, Lead Pastor, St. John’s UMC Northwest Campus. Houston, TX 1. Be Careful of Things Marked Temporary v.2 2.Follow in Obedience v.3 3.God will Provide v.8;11;13 4. Erect Some Historical Markers that God moved in your Life v.14 5. Fight to keep your Faith *sermon notes:church member Zuri Woods

“Who Is Your Mother”? Matthew 12:46-50 Dr. Clara Reed | Executive Pastor MOTHER'S DAY SERMON 1. Speak well of your mother 2. Forgive her of past mistakes 3. Seek out her wisdom 4. Tell her story when she's in Heaven 5. Honor your mother. The Holy Spirit our Mother God intercedes on our behalf

I. God is so CONCERNED about our dark places: vs. 5-6 II. God CALLS us to realign our souls with His goodness: v. 7 III. God is COMMITTED to giving us a promising future: vs. 8-9

Unveiling common myths of Mental Illness: ? Mental health problems don't affect me. ? Children don't experience mental health problems. ? People with mental health problems can snap out of it if they try hard enough. ? Therapy and counseling are a waste of time. ? There is no hope for people with mental health problems.

Anything Can Happen I. BELIEVE in the impossible: verse 1-2 Matthew 19:26, Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” II. REFUSE to let fear hinder your faith: 5-7, Matthew 16:21, From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Hebrews 11:6, 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. III. EXPECT to encounter the unexpected: 8-10:

John 11: 21-25, “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. I. Disappointments are painful but not HOPELESS: vs.38-39 38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39 “Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” Rolling the stone over the cave was a sign and symbol of II. Disappointments are used to GLORIFY GOD: vs. 40-42. In verse 11:40 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” Jesus Raised others to life: L

I. Don’t let the UNBELIEF of others hinder your blessing: 13-15 II. Don’t let your past TRADITION affect your present CONDITION: 16-17 III. Don’t be SURPRISED of the people who will question your healing: 20-21 IV. Don’t hesitate to share your TESTIMONY with unbelievers: 24-25

Are you thirsty for the right thing? John 4:4-18 I. Jesus’ thirst compelled him to do the UNCONCEIVABLE: Verse 7-9 II. Jesus provides water that’s UNIMAGINABLE: Verse 10, 13-14 III. Jesus offers living water to do the UNTHINKABLE: Verse 17-18

Fighting Temptation Mathew 4:1-11 I. Temptation is INEVITABLE: II. Temptation is IDENTIFIABLE: III. Temptation is ESCAPABLE:

As we move into the 3 rd week of the series In it to win, we will continue to look at the Exodus and see how Moses and the Israelites persistency and determination caused them to conquer and defeat the enemy. The goal of this series is to equip you to fight the good fight emotionally, spiritually and financially to and over life battles. Today we will be looking at Exodus 5: 4-13, 22-23, 6:1. I want to tittle this teaching and preaching moment-Still we Rise!

We will be looking at the Exodus and see how Moses and the Israelites persistency and determination cause them conquer and defeat the enemy. In the series we will be equip to fight the good fight and over life battles. But in order to overcome life’ battles we must be in it to win!

Worship it’s both private and public and to worship means to have an intimate authentic encounter with God any time and anywhere. Scripture reminds us John 4:23, God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”