Merry Christmas!

We hope you are having a wonderful holyday celebration! We were not able to have our Christmas Eve service last Friday due to the bad weather, but did include a number of segments in our Sunday morning services that would have been presented in the Christmas Eve service.

When I was a young boy, I memorized and recited the Christmas passage from Matthew chapter 2 at our Christmas service. You may want to read this during this Christmas season.

Also, enjoy this recording of the presentation called "Christmas in the Park" which was given in our Sunday service.

Merry Christmas!

Patience!

Christmas is ALMOST here! But, some of you have been waiting a long time for it, haven't you? It's hard to be patient, but God wants us to learn to be patient.

Galatians 5:22,23 says that the Holy Spirit wants to grow patience in us.

We need to be patient with other. We need to be patient with God too! God is always working, and if He doesn't do exactly what you want exactly when you want it, decide to be patient!

Many people waited for the coming of Jesus - the Messiah -- at that first Christmas. When Jesus was born, the wiseman had to travel a long ways. They had to be patient on that long trip! You can read about that in Matthew chapter 2.

Jesus did come at that first Christmas. He also promises to come back again. Are you waiting? Look at James 5:7-11.

Know this: If you will be patient, good things will come! Merry Christmas!

GoFish Christmas!

This past summer we had GoFish here at our church for a great concert ending our VBS time.

Most people wouldn't know this...but my wife Karen has a sister. Her sister is married to Gaylon. Gaylon is the first cousin of one of the GoFish guys--Jamie. They all grew up out in South Dakota.

Check out this Christmas video on YouTube by the GoFish guys. It shows them out on the farm and also in concerts. This Christmas video has over a million hits. It talks about keeping CHRIST as the main focus of Christmas. It also includes some of Brad Stein's monologue. Brad is a Christian comedian -- though he's not beeing too funny on this one.

Merry CHRISTmas!

Peace On Earth

The angels announced in Luke 2 "Peace on earth, good will to men." Because Jesus was born, people could now have peace with each other, peace with God, and peace in their own hearts.

Read Isaiah 9:6 and you will find a name for Jesus that talks about peace.

Some people are afraid. Others are confused. Some concentrate on wrong selfish thoughts. All of those things stop people from having peace. But, Jesus came to earth to bring peace to everyone.

Here are a couple more verses that help us understand more about Jesus bringing peace:

2 Timothy 1:7
John 14:26,27
Philippians 4:6,7

May God grow the fruit of peace in your heart and in your family!

Christmas Joy!

God wants to grow some sweet stuff in your life! ...like fruit! It's called the "fruit of the Spirit." Galatians 5:22,23 tells us about this. One of the spiritual fruits is JOY. God wants your JOY to grow during this Christmas season and throughout the year.

We love good food. But we should remember Romans 14:17 "The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating or drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." The same is true for the holidays. It's not just about eating Christmas goodies and stuff like that. That stuff isn't going to last long, but God's gifts are ETERNAL gifts!

Romans 6:23 lists one of God's eternal gifts. Take a moment and read that one today!

In Luke 10:17-22 it tells us about how Jesus' followers were excited, and Jesus was also full of joy. Do you remember why Jesus was full of joy? (You may read that right now.)

You can also be full of the joy of the Holy Spirit! Remember, at this Christmas season, true joy comes -- not just from gifts and great food -- but from staying tied into the source of eternal joy - Jesus!

Christmas Love!

The first of the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22,23 is love. God, through the work of His Spirit, wants us to grow in this area of love.

"Love" is not about getting, but about giving. John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son...." Love is thinking about what is best for others before yourself. Love is about GIVING.

So, during this Christmas season, remember that God loves you so much. That's why he gave his son Jesus to us. You can show God's love to others during this season as you give your time, your talents, your help, gifts, a smile, an encouraging word, and more!

May God's love encourage you today as you share His love with others!

Where the Wild Things Are

We recently talked about "Where the Wild Things Are." In this book (and movie) a boy named Max wants to be King of the Wild Things. He sometimes misbehaves and gets in trouble. I think it's because he's having problems at home and he doesn't quite know what to do. Sometimes he is mad. Sometimes he is lonely. Sometimes he feels sad. When things are going bad, we can have different feelings...and that's okay. It's good to talk about those feelings then.

The Bible helps us know how to react and what to think when things aren't going very good.

Don't forget, just because things aren't going good, that doesn't mean that God has stopped loving you. He still does! And He says, "I will never leave you or forsake you!" Hebrews 13:5.

People in the Bible also had challenges. David is one of them. He would talk to God about his problems when he was sad or when he was angry or when he was lonely. Read some of these scriptures. How do you think David felt?

Psalm 27
Psalm 57
Psalm 30
Psalm 31
Psalm 69

You could read one of these each day of the week if you want.

These writings by David remind me that sometimes life is tough, but God still loves us. His plan is for your good...and He is cheering you on! Don't give up. Talk with God about this like David did. Maybe you want to write down some of your thoughts and prayers like David did.

I hope you made it to kids church, because we talked about this and SO MUCH MORE!

See you soon. Have a great week with Jesus!

Intercessory Prayer

To "intercede" means "to stand in the gap." When we intercede for others, that's called intercession. It means that we stand between two people who need our help.

A lawyer is a person who intercedes for another before a judge.

A person who steps into a middle of a fight to protect another person may be called an intercessor.

What Jesus did for us at the cross was an act of intercession.

Read about Abraham and how he interceded for his nephew Lot in Genesis chapter 18 and 19:1,2 & 19:14-29.

Abraham spoke to the Lord on behalf of the innocent. He was "making intercession." When you speak to the Lord so others will be saved, that's prayer. That's is intercessory prayer.

Who can use your prayers today? Take some time and make a list and then pray for them. If you keep that list, and keep on praying, you will see that God is a God who answers prayer!

The Return of Jesus!

What an incredible week we have had!

Clowns from Georgia, Washington state, Arkansas, Illinois and Minnesota were with us this week in our Wednesday kids clubs and in our Sunday morning service. That was a blast!

This week our focus was on John 14:1-3. In these verses, Jesus said, "I will come back and take you to be with me."

Did you know that Jesus is alive, and he is going to come back to take those with him who love him and are ready to go?!

In Luke 14:15-23 Jesus told a story that helps us understand that Jesus wants everyone to be with him, but some people just have excuses. Take some time to read that today!

When Jesus calls to us, let's not have excuses. Let's be ready to go!

The Parable of the Sower

We had a wonderful time Sunday morning as families joined together in the main sanctuary for worship. Over twenty people also followed the Lord's instruction in water baptism.

At the beginning of Mark 4, Jesus shared a story about a farmer. Take some time this week to read this story together as a family. Do you remember the four soils? Which one are you like? Maybe you are like different soils at different times. That happens to everyone. Our goal should be to have our hearts be like good soil.

Take some time today to open your heart to the Word of God. God wants to grow you spiritually!

Do You Want To Be Successful?

Most people don't have big goals to be big failures. We all want to be successful! And that is what God wants you to be too.

Jeremiah 29:11 tells about God's plan for you! (Take a moment and read it.)

God also gives us the exact thing we need to be successful. It's full written directions. If we will think about these directions, speak these directions with our mouths, and then DO them we will be successful! But, we have to take time to read them and learn them! (That's a big part of why we have Junior Bible Quiz at our church each Sunday night.)

Joshua 1:8 lists the main scripture verse we talked about in Kids Church this Sunday. If you will follow what it says there, you will be prosperous and successful, GUARANTEED!

Fall Festival Preparations

Fall Festival will be on Saturday, October 31 from 3:00-5:00 at the AG Church. Games, candy, carmal apples and a great stage illusion show with Pastor Randy are all free!

Set-up for Fall festival begins on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 5:00 p.m. ...AND pizza will be served. You may come as a family to help us get ready.

One Wednesday, Oct. 28th beginning at 6:00 p.m. set-up will continue with a large group effort. Kids Clubs will NOT be meeting. Children may come with their parents to help us continue with preparations. If you have other time frames that work for you to help set-up, please let us know. We will be working throughout the week.

Parents and teens are invited to sign up to help run games and stations. Sign up in the foyer or call Pastor Noelle at 235.2529.

Voice To the World

Matthew 12:34 says, "Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks."

That means - the things you have in your heart end up coming out through your words.

And that's the way that it is! If you have anger in your heart, it often comes out through your words. If you have joy in your heart, it comes out (Wa-hooo!).

Take a moment and read Ephesians 3:17. It tells about something else that is in our hearts. And if this is in your heart....it should show by the words that you speak to others too!

On Sunday in Kids Church, the Anderson family visited us. They told us about the country of India where they show the love of Jesus to others. Why are they there? Because God has filled their hearts with his love and forgiveness, and now, they have to speak to others about that. The thing that's overflowing from their hearts, is coming out of their mouths!

If we have Jesus inside us, we should speak about Him to others too! Get Jesus inside, and then let him out!

Jesus - Our Super Hero

Jesus is our hero! He showed courage. He helped the needy. He ministered to others through the power of the Holy Spirit. He did things with not just normal powers, but super powers. These were not "super powers" like we read about in comic books. This was the power that comes from the Holy Spirit. It's not just pretend. It's real!

Jesus talked about this in Matthew 19:26. Take a moment and read that. We find that sometimes things seem impossible--and probably are--in our own strength. But, with God's help super things can happen!

Watch a great video about a boy who is a gamer. He loves doing the "virtual reality" games, but has found something even greater. That is, that Jesus is not just imaginary like in the "virtual reality"games or comic books. But, Jesus brings SPIRITUAL reality to us, that helps us go beyond normal. He brings power that's beyond natural. It's SUPERnatural!

Go to www.Max7.org Click on the upper bar where it says "Audio Visual". A drop down menu will be there. Click on "video." This will take you to the page where you can find "Bigger Than The World Itself". We watched this in kids church, and I think you'll like it.

Have a great week serving Jesus!

H1N1 and A Healthy Church Environment

The H1N1 virus has arrived in Willmar. We want you to know that we take our responsibility for your child's safety seriously. Please join with us in making our church facility a safe environment for all children!

We are taking the following precautions in our preschool areas:

1. Equipment, countertops, an toys are sprayed with disinfectant after every service or childcare event. Toys that have been in kid's mouths are placed in a separate bin and washed in our church dishwasher making them once again safe and sanitized.

2. We are monitoring volunteers and children for signs of illness and asking them to go home if signs of sickness exists.

3. Volunteers are asked to wash their hands before they hold children.

4. Hand sanitizers will be sotcked up in each of the early childhood areas for parents and volunteers to use.

5. Volunteers need to find a replacement and notify Pastor Noelle if they are sick (and stay home, please!)

Reminder: We politely request that all parents strictly adhere to our Sickness Policy to maintain the health of all of our children. We ask that no child be brought to church who has these symptoms within the past 24 hours:

fever,

cough,

sore throat,

runny or stuffy nose,

vomiting,

diarrhea

Additional steps for you and your family from the Centers for Disease Control:

1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

2. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also helpful.

3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

4. Try to avoid contact with sick people.

5. Practice good habits such as healthy eating, reducing stress and being active.

For additional information visit:

http://www.cdc.gov/ (Centers for Disease Control)

http://www.hearlth.state.mn.us/ (Minnesota Department of Health)

If you have any questions concerning our policy, please contact Pastor Randy or Pastor Noelle at the church at 320.235.2529. Thank you.

Elijah At Mount Carmel

King Ahab and Queen Jezebel did not lead the people of Israel to follow God. But, Elijah knew who the true God was. Read about the challenge that Elijah made between the false prophets of Baal and Elijah in 1 Kings 18. God answered Elijah's prayer in a powerful way!

Elijah challenged the people to make a decision and choose to put God first. God has blessed us with many things, but we should never love those things more than we love God.

Take a few minutes and read these verses:
Deuteronomy 6:14,15 & Luke 16:13 & Mark 12:30

Putting God first is something we need to do "on purpose."

Today, are you able to "give God 5"?
5 minutes of prayer
5 minutes of Bible reading
5 minutes of praising Jesus

There are all kinds of things we can do each day, and many of the things are good things, but we need to make sure that we are taking time each day to put Jesus first!

God's Great Love

We had a wonderful weekend with Sandy Noe from Louisville, Kentucky. She spoke with us about L.O.V.E. and what it really means to love Jesus.

L - stood for Longing to be with him. Do you want to spend time with Jesus? Do you look forward to being with him when he comes back to take you?

O - stood for obedience. If we love him, we will obey him. John 14:15 records Jesus talking about that. Take a look.

V - represented "vital signs." When a person is checked by a doctor, there are vital (that means "important and necessary") things that need to be checked. A person's heart is always checked. We need to not only check our physical health, but our spiritual health. Is there anything in your heart that will make you spiritually ill? That needs to be cleaned out of a person's heart.

E - reminds us that we will live eternally with Jesus. His love is everlasting. We will get to live with him forever. And he wants to be your Lord and Savior and forever friend.

Take some time to talk with Him today! He loves you!

Hero - Queen Esther!

This Sunday we continued our series on Bible Heroes. These people found themselves with big problems. But, they all also held onto the fact that God would not leave them.

They remembered Deuteronomy 31:6. Do you remember it?

Mordecai was Esther's cousin, and he often encouraged her to do what was right! The word "encourage" means, "to put courage into another."

Jesus wants us to encourage each other too. By what you say, you can help others stand strong.

Is there something you can say to encourage your mom?

Is there something you can say to encourage your dad?

Is there something you can do to encourage your brother or sister?

God wants you to be strong and courageous, and he also wants you to help others be strong and courageous too.

This week, take the time to read the book of Esther. It's only about 6 pages long. It's an incredible true happening in history that is still celebrated today by the Jewish people. It's not a fairy tale. It was totally real.

Courage

Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

No matter where you go...no matter what happens...know that you can trust God.

Daniel found out that was true. He was taken as a captive to another land, was forced into a training school, and still did his best to obey God. Because of that, God helped him through the hard times. (You can read about that in Daniel chapter one.)

As you head into a new school year, there may be some surprises that happen. You may even go through some challenges. Be like Daniel. Have courage! God is not going to leave you nor forsake you. You can trust Him to help you and guide you.

Read more about Daniel and his encounter with the lions in Daniel 6.

God bless you!

Peace and Joy in God's Kingdom

Romans 14:17 says, "The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit."

The Kingdom of God is not made up of temporary things that only last for a moment...like food, or drinks, or candy. That's why Jesus says we don't need to worry about stuff like food and clothing (See Matthew 6:24-33).

We can know that God cares for us and His plan is for our good. If we choose to do what is right : that's thinking God's way, and acting God's way we will have peace and joy.

It doesn't mean that things always go well. Sometimes things are hard, but we can have God's peace and joy when we are in right relationship with Him.

Nehemiah 8:10 says, "The joy of the Lord is your strength."

Where do you get your joy and peace from?

Is it...the joy of my video game is my strength?
or...the joy of watching television is my strength?
or...the joy of playing sports is my strength?
or...the joy of being with my friends is my strength?
or...the joy of having money is my strength?

So many people base all their peace and joy on temporary things, rather than on a long-lasting relationship with Jesus. Hang onto Jesus and you can have peace and joy as part of his kingdom!

Righteousness

God is a righteous God, and he calls us to lives of righteousness too!

Sometimes it's hard to really understand what righteousness is. That's a BIG word!

Simply, it's doing what's right. That's doing it God's way. Having right thoughts, right actions, right attitudes and right motives: Treating people in a right way.

Righteousness also includes having right relationships with God and others.

Before we can be righteous in our thoughts and actions, we need to have a right relationship with God. That's pretty much impossible to happen without God's help. We have all sinned (see Romans 3:23 and Isaiah 64:6)...and it's impossible to have a right relationship with God when one's life is full of sin.

That's where Jesus came in. He never sinned. He was righteous. So when he paid the price for our sin, we then could have our sins removed and take on HIS righteousness in our lives. It's amazing. Read more about that in 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 3:22 & Philippians 1:11.

Each day, take time to pray and invite the righteousness of God to grow in you!

For more information on God's righteous work in you read:

Psalm 23:3, Matthew 5:6, Ephesians 4:24

Have a great week!

A Life of Prayer

Vic Poverud led our kids church service this Sunday and discussed practical aspects of prayer. Prayer is our hotline to heaven.

We know that God knows our every thoughts (see Psalm 139), but he still wants us to pray. He wants you to speak to Him. Prayer is more than just thinking nice thoughts. Prayer is talking with God, and listening to God speak to you in your heart, soul and mind.

Read 1 Samuel 3 and learn how God spoke to a young boy. And I encourage you to take time today to speak with God. He wants to hear from you.

Go Fish!

We know God wants all to be saved. He paid the price for all of us.

The question is, how do we get people to be saved? You and I cannot MAKE anyone pray. It's like you cannot get a fish to bite, but you can make it so it WANTS to. You need to use the right bait!

B.A.I.T

B- You need to know what the Bible says.
Here are some verses from the Bible that are good to know:
Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:8, Romans 10:9,10

A- stands for showing right attitudes and actions to others. You want to let your light shine to others around you. Show them that Jesus has made a difference in your life through your actions and your attitudes.

I- Show interest in the person's life and what that person is doing. Ask questions. "Do you like this? How do you do that?" Show interest, not IGNORE them. When you act like they are important to you, then they will listen to what is important to you too.

T- Tell them that God loves them. Tell them that Jesus has made a difference in your life. Tell them that God has a great plan for each life.

Is there someone you know that needs Jesus? Maybe there is someone you are going to meet this week. In a month you go back to school, maybe there's someone there.

Remember 4 things:

#1. Know your Bible --- one of the great ways to learn is in JBQ (starting this Fall)
#2. Examine yourself --- are you showing good attitudes and actions?
#3. Do you look at others and think about what would make them feel valued? Do you show interest in their lives?
#4. Are you willing to tell others that Jesus loves them?

Put the right "bait" out there and you may find that your friends too will get "hooked on Jesus!"

SuperStar!

Last Sunday, we went Backstage with the Bible to look at two groups of perople. One group was the Egyptians and they had everything. The second group were called the Israelites and they were not rich or famous. They were actually slaves to the Egyptians. Even though they didn't have possessions of their own, they were called God's chosen people.
The fact is, God will remember His people and reward us in heaven and the rewards will be much greater than money or fame!

Psalm 139:14 "I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

God has a plan for you since before the day you were born. But, you have a choice to go with His plan or not. It all starts by putting Him first in your life.

What does God have planned for you? Missionary? Youth leader? Pastor? Doctor? Farmer? Computer Specialist?

You are special to God, and he has a special plan for you too!

Perseverance!

Last Sunday we talked about Noah and his patience through the entire ark event. I think if I had to stay in a boat for more than a year with all those animals--I just might go crazy!

But, 2 Thessalonians 3:5 says, "May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance." Perseverance is "not giving up, but continuing on!"

James 1:3 says, "...know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."

Hang on! Keep a good attitude! And persevere!

You may read more about Noah's journey of perseverance in Genesis 6:5-8:22.

Let's Make A Deal

Jesus exchanged his life for the penalty of our sin. We now have hope of heaven, rather than hell. That's a great trade for us!

Read together John 6:26-28
These verses was when Jesus had fed the 5,000. Some people followed him because they wanted food that would temporarily satisfy their hunger. They were interested in the temporary that would make them feel good immediatly. But Jesus was more concerned about the long lasting feeding of their soul.

1 Timothy 4:8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

This last Sunday was Let's Make A Deal Sunday. We had kids come up that had something to trade. They then pick a container that they wanted to trade with. The tricky thing was, they didn't know if they were going to make a good deal or not.

Question/Answer:
What's going to help you the most in the long-term?
1. Skittles or Fruit
2. Coke or Milk
3. Watching TV or reading?
4. Sitting on the couch or exercising?
5. Playing video games or reading your Bible?
6. Going to a sports game or going to church?
7. Listening to non-Christian music or listening to Christian music?

I encourage you to make the good deal! Make the good choice! Choose the thing that will be LONG lasting.

Praying With Children

Recently, a parent asked me some advice about praying with her children. I thought you may be interested in seeing what I said. Bless ya!

Pastor Randy

---Response---

You, as parents have the great opportunity to create an environment where your kids will desire more of God in their lives. I often think of the verse, "Taste and see the Lord is good." We want to give kids a good taste of what God has for them. And we want that taste to be something that makes them yearn and hunger for more of God. There's a big difference between force feeding kids a plateful of food though, and giving them a taste. I also recognize that "in the natural" a child usually has an attention span of about 1 minute per year of age...if they are interested in what they are doing. (That's why a 4 year old teacher cannot tell a 10 minute story.)

I believe that prayertimes can be a part of that "tasting" process when children are exposed to the goodness of God. These prayertimes should fit a child's perspectives and appear directly applicable to their lives. We do want them to think that prayer is relevant and life-giving. If they are bored and turned off by the prayertimes, they will assume, in time, that prayer is boring and irrelevant.

Something I did, when my kids were younger, is this:
There were times where I would go to my bedroom to pray. I'd tell the kids that's what I was going to do, and if they wanted to join me for prayer, they were welcome. (No guilt. No heavy-handedness. Just an invitation.)

Often, one or two of them would come in and spend 5 or 10 minutes with me kneeling by the bed. I would always pray outloud.

I would invite them to join me in "conversational prayer." Which means we would:
1. first of all list things that we should pray about.
2. Then I would pray first about that thing (for a few sentences or a paragraph)
3. Then they would pray about that same thing outloud.
4. Then we would move on to the second thing on the list...maybe they would pray first this time...
5. We alternated praying together until we got through our list.
6. Then I would always pray a prayer of blessing on them, and allow them to go if they wanted too.
These were precious times.

I also think of scripture that talks about "pray constantly." (1 Thess. 5:17) So, throughout the day, when driving the car, etc., I'd just say a short outloud prayer, yes to God, but so my kids would also hear me. I want them to understand that prayer is a normal, often repeated, part of life, and not just a scheduled event.

Through the years I have also taught this acrostic for prayer:
P- praise (thank God for who He is and what he has done)
R - Repent (things to be sorry for...and things in me that need to change)
A - Ask (ask God for help. Prayer for others too)
Y - Yeild (Saying "not my will but yours be done." and also allowing God to speak to me...)

I've taught kids that if you spend just even a minute on each of these, you will pray about five minutes a day. It's easy for that time to stretch longer once started.

There's a few thoughts. Hopefully they are helpful!

Bless you as you disciple those wonderful girls!

Pastor Randy

Freedom!

Today I find myself at Assembly Park Camp in Northern Wisconsin. I, and most of my family, are kids camp speakers here with a great group of kids and staff. It took about five hours to drive here from Willmar.

Last night I shared the message of Jesus' sacrifice and saw many children, for the first time. commit their lives to Christ.

It made me think about how wonderful it is to live in a country like this, where we can tell others about our faith in Jesus. Not everyone can do that around the world. Some places will not allow people to talk about Jesus.

Right now, my daughter Brooke, is in Guatamala. She is there with Greg Phillips (who did our Family Extravaganza a year ago.) They are going into orphanages, schools, and prisons telling people there about Jesus too.

As our special guest, Jeff Struecker, said on Sunday morning. We should be thankful for our freedom as a country. But, God wants us to have freedom spiritually too.

You may read about that in John 8:34-36. Take time to read that today, and be thankful that Jesus' sets us free from sin!

See you soon!

Willmar Fest Parade

We had a great time with almost 50 people helping represent Kidsworld ministries at the parade. Did you see us there?! We were out to promote the upcoming VBS on July 26-29. Get signed up now at http://www.willmarag.org/

Good Defeats Evil in the End

Romans 12:21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Read together 1 Samuel Chapter 26. This chapter talks about the story about David Spares Saul’s Life. In the end, God rewarded David for the choices he made.

In Revelation, it tells us about when Jesus’ second coming:

-Satan and armies from this earth will rise up to fight Jesus.
-Jesus and the armies of heaven will come and wipe them out. And then the devil will be taken and thrown into the lake of fire! powerpoint
-Good always beats evil. God always beats the devil. Sometimes it seems bad, but don’t give up hope. Good will come to you, in time, if you will keep choosing the good. (like David)

We know the good ---first of all----by knowing God.

Do remember WWJD? The Holy Spirit helps you know what Jesus would do.

Ask God, and he will help you. Show by your decisions, your actions and your attitudes that you belong to Jesus. Choose the good. …and KEEP ON choosing the good.

Even in the bad times, God is working for your good. Good will win.

Fear and Anxiety In Kids

Recently I viewed an article that had some good input for parents. This article was found on the National Assemblies of God Children's ministries blog. You may read it at:

http://www.gphchildren.blogspot.com/

Bless ya today!

Pastor Randy

What Does Choosing Good Look Like?

The Holy Spirit wants to help you make good decisions. To help you recognize if ideas are from God, or from somewhere else.

How do we listen to God? When we ask Jesus into our lives, God promised to help us choose good.

Read together Matthew 3:13-17; 4:1-11. These verses talks about how Jesus beats the Devil.

Sometimes we want to make some evil choices instead of good choices; however, making a few bad choices can mess up the rest of our good choices.

God has given us one never wrong way to know how to choose good over evil. He gave us the Bible. Any feeling or teaching or thought that is truly from God will agree with the Bible.

God wants to help you make good choices. It's important to remember, God will speak to us if we ask him too. We just have to LOOK and LISTEN to make good choices.

Prayer: Pray that we may hear God and know the difference between good and bad choices

Telling the Difference Between Good and Evil

Key Verse: Romans 12:21 "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

Like the two glasses that looked the same, you cannot always tell just from the outside appearance if something is good or bad. That's why you need to listen to good advice, and listen most of all to God.

How do you know which one to choose?

If you look and see that a choice will help people love and obey God, it's a good choice?
If you look and see that a choice will cause people to disobey God, you are looking at a wrong, evil choice.

In Exodus 7:1-13, you may read about when Moses and Aaron confronted Pharaoah and the Egypian "magi". They both had to make a huge choice to follow God's commends or not; even though they were about to face some hard times, they decided to follow and obey God no matter what.

Prayer: Lord, help us to make good choices. Help us to not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil by making good chices. Choices that help us love and obey you.

Where Do Good and Evil Come From?

Some people are searching for the truth. It is important to make sure you are looking to Jesus. Like Tad Leery on Sunday, you will not find what is good and true by looking at other religions, by looking to t.v. and fashion styles, ect.

Read Genesis 2-3- It is the story of Adam and Eve and how they were deceived by the serpent.
Remember, you cannot listen to everyone. For example, Adam and Eve should not have listened to the serpernt.

How do you know what is good and evil?

-Good is from God
scripture: Mark 10:16 Jesus answered "No one is good--except God alone."
-Evil is from the devil
scripture: Revelation 12:9 "...that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray."

Adam and Eve looked to someone besides God to fill their hearts. They thought they could run their own lives and KNOW better. That however brought all kinds of problems.

We know the good by knowing God, but Satan wants to lead you away from God's best for your life. Do not listen to him!

Romans 12:21 "Do not be oversome by evil, but oversome evil with good."

Good Vs. Evil

Dear Parents,

The next four weeks, your kids will be learning about Good vs. Evil. This will help your child to discover the ongoing battle between God and the devil. Below are some questions that we will explore in the next four weeks.
- Where do good and evil come from?
- How can I tell the difference between good and evil?
- What does choosing good look like?
- What does choosing evil look like?
- How does Good vs. Evil end?

We will also have a life verse for these weeks.
Life verses encourage kids to hide God's Word in their hearts. Too often kids quickly learn a Bible verse only to forget it. Good vs. Evil's Life Verse will help remind your kids that with God's help, they can choose to do good instead of evil.

Romans 12:21
"Do not be overcome with evil, but oversome evil with good."

Want to get involved in your child's Kids Church journey?
-Check each week to see what your child is learning.

B.G.M.C.?

Dear Parents,

I want to share just a few short thoughts.

B.G.M.C. Bike Day just happened. Your child had a great opportunity to put "action" and "effort" to a worthy cause. We try to provide learning opportunities for your children that will help them throughout life. We believe that one of the greatest things any person can learn--at any age--is to get "beyond oneself and focus on the needs of others."

Even this B.G.M.C. Bike Day effort could be a learning lesson for your child. You could help your child to understand more about sacrifice, denying oneself, working through a tough project even when one's emotions are saying "I don't feel like it."

Missions is generally about personal sacrifice. The missionaries themselves have sacrificed a "normal" american lifestyle. They have sacrificed their time. Their families have sacrificed the comfort of being in America. "What would God have us to sacrifice?" Maybe that's a question that can be discussed in review of our B.G.M.C. Bike Day.

I'm proud of the forty-some riders that we had on Sunday morning. My hope is that we in Kidsworld ministry are helping your efforts in raising children that are "others" minded, rather than self-serving.

I invite you to share any thoughts or ideas you may have on how we may better work with you and other parents to accomplish this goal. See you soon!

Serving Together,

Pastor Randy

Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Last Sunday, I showed everyone my unicycle. First, I played with the pedals and then balanced the unicycle on my chin.
The question is: what did you want to see?
You wanted to see the "rubber meet the road" ... it wasn't good enough, until I got on it and got across the room!

I could say, "I'm a unicyclist!"... but until I get out there and put ACTION to it, you don't believe me.
I could say, "I believe I can ride a unicycle." but, until I do it, it doesn't count. There has to be ACTION put with my belief.

Read together James 2:14-18 ... we show our faith by our actions.

James 2:26 "faith without works is dead."
The things we say we believe, need to result in ACTIONS... or they really do not count.

For example, If you say, "I believe children should obey their parents... but you don't do it..." then you probably really do NOT believe it.

Fill in the blank-
If you believe that it's important to be healthy, then you _______
If you believe that you should be kind to others, then you ______
If you believe that learning things will help you in the future,
then _______
If you believe that hell is real, then you _______
If you believe that everyone needs to know Jesus, then you ____
If you believe that worshipping God is the right thing to do,
then _____
If you believe that prayer workds, then _______
If you believe it is important to read your Bible, then _______

You can say you believe something- but your actions SHOW if you really do believe it.

That's where "the rubber meets the road." ... it's where faith connects with action.

Prayer: Lord, help us to believe, and help us to put ACTION to what we believe.

B.G.M.C. Bike Day - Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Do not forget that this Sunday all of our grade school aged kids have an opportunity to help people around the world by raising funds for B.G.M.C.!

Bring your bike, or if you need to borrow one, please let me know! Hopefully we have great weather.

We will start the morning with a 45 minute Kids Church service, then go outside for the ride. We will do that at both of our services. Please pray with us that many people will respond and help financially support each child's efforts.

I once heard someone say, "For every dollar given to B.G.M.C., someone in the world comes to know Christ as savior." Can you think of a better way to use a dollar? I can't. Let's do our best to share the love of Jesus with people around the world. One great way to do that is through B.G.M.C.

See ya soon! I'm cheering for you!

Pastor Randy

Giving An Account

The end of the school year is near: Did you make the grade?
At school, why do the give grades?... teachers need to measure or give an account if you are learning what you should be learning.

"Account" means you kept track of... putting it together... total up the count to reach the deired number.

In Matthew 25:14-30, you may read about the parable of the talents. How a man going on a journey called his three servants and entrusted then each different amount of talents of money. Two out of the three servants went out and double the amount of talents they originally had; however, the third servant did nothing. When the master returned, he was pleased to see how the two servants doubled what he entrusted them. He then replied by saying "Well done, good and faithful servant!". Then the third servant approached his master that was not pleased with the servants lazyness. The third servant was not to celebrate with the other two because he did nothing with what was entrusted upon him.

Just like the parable of the talents, God has entrusted certain things upon each one of us, and it is God that will give an account for the work we are doing.

Here are a few verses to read about giving an account:

Matthew 12:36

Romans 14:12

Hebrews 4:13

Are you giving God your best? If you are, there will be a reward... for you will want to hear "Well done, good and faithful servant".

Matthew 24:44 "...be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."

What will Jesus catch you doing? Helping others? praising him? Obeying your parents? Showing respect to leaders? Doing what is right?

Each one of us must give an account...what will the final grade be?

JESUS IS COMING BACK

Since Easter, we have been talking about how Jesus is really real!

In Acts 1:1-11, you may read about Jesus as he stood on the Mount of Olives. Suddenly, he was taken up into the sky and a cloud hid him. I know it sounds crazy, but that's what really happened!

In John 14:2-3, Jesus told his disciples that he would go away. He also said he would come back.

Do you know someone else who has gone away and will be coming back? Do you know when?

In Matthew 24:36-44, Jesus tells about when he will come again. Take some time to look at that. It could be today.

Are you ready?

Springtime is wonderful! I love seeing the plants turn green, the flowers growing, and the animals returning to activity. God's Spirit had a big part in creating all that we can see.

Genesis chapter one tells us all about how God created everything. When we experience the wonder of nature, it inspires us to worship God.

There was a woman that had questions about where the right place was to worship God. Back in Jesus' day, some people said that Jerusalem was the only place to truly worship God. Jesus told her that it doesn't matter where you are, you can worship EVERYWHERE. God's Spirit is everywhere. He is with you wherever you go, and He wants to help you honor Jesus wherever you go and whatever you do! (Read more about Jesus conversation with that woman in John 4.)

Worship is NOT just going to church. Worship is NOT just singing. Worship is giving your whole life over to Jesus. Romans 12:1 says that we should offer our whole selves to God-- wherever we are, whatever we do-- that is our spiritual act of worship! So, throughout your week...keep on honoring Jesus in all you do!

The Spirit Guides

Read Ephesians 3:16-18.

Paul prays that God's Spirit will strengthen your "inner being." He understood that there's more to us than just the outside shell. We are more than just flesh and bone. There is a part of us that cannot be seen, nor measured by natural means. This is more than natural. This is part of the supernatural. It is spiritual.

God desires to help each of us grow strong spiritually. By His Spirit, each of us may receive the daily help we need!

Here's a few verses to read about God's work in your life:

Romans 8:6-7 and 8:13,14

John 14:26

Romans 8:16 & Proverbs 16:9.

Take some time today to pray and invite the Holy Spirit to do his work in you! He wants to help you and guide you so you know what to do!

Jesus Sends the Holy Spirit

According to Luke, Jesus wanted to make it CLEAR to everyone that he was really REAL. In Luke 24:36-51 you can read about Jesus spending time with his followers after Jesus had died and then rose again.

In verse 49 Jesus also told them that He would send them help by sending His Spirit to them.

Read more of what Jesus has to say about his Spirit in John 14:15-25. He wants to give you help, guidance, comfort, strength and more, through the presence of His Spirit in your life.

Jesus is STILL Alive!

Sometimes, once Easter is past, and the candy eggs have been eaten, we forget the FACT that Jesus is still alive.

He was not only alive 2,000 years ago. He died, and rose again, and has not died since then. Because he is STILL alive, that gives us hope that we too may have eternal life forever! Read Romans 6:8-10 to learn more about that!

People were surprised when Jesus showed up AFTER his death. In Luke chapter 24 you can learn more about things that happened after Jesus' resurrection.

Since Jesus is still alive today, we know that:

1. He can hear us when we pray

2. He can do what needs to be done to help us

3. He will come back and take us to live with Him forever (John 14:2,3)

4. He is who he said he is...the Son of God and the King of heaven.

He IS Alive!

We just sang the song that says,

"Maybe it's a little bit crazy to believe in things I cannot see.
Maybe it's a little bit crazy that my best friend is my savior.
Maybe it's a little bit crazy that a King would give his life for me.
Maybe it's a little bit crazy..."

Thomas thought the other disciples were a little bit crazy when they told him that Jesus was alive. He did NOT believe them. He said he would not believe until he saw and touched Jesus.

Well, it wasn't too long and Thomas was able to do just that. Jesus appeared to him, and said, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

We have not seen Jesus, but we believe that HE IS ALIVE!

Hebrews 7:24,25 says, "Jesus lives forever...he is able to save completely those who come to God through him...."

You may read more about Thomas meeting with Jesus in John 20:24-31.

Happy Easter! He is live!

Good Friday

It's a Good Friday.

To consider what Jesus did for us at the cross should take one's breath away. It was a horrible experience, yet what was meant for evil was turned for our good. That's why it truly is a GOOD Friday.

Check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naajYZSbWdw to see a three and a half minute summary of the day we call "Good Friday." May we rejoice that it did NOT stop right there... but SUNDAY was coming!

Pastor Randy

Jesus Paid the Price

We all enjoy receiving good gifts. One of the greatest gifts is not something you can wrap or unwrap. It is not carried in a box, but is carried in one's heart. It is the gift of forgiveness.

Romans 6:23 says, "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Jesus paid the price so we could be forgiven and receive the gift of eternal life.

You may view a unique -- yet scriptural -- portrayal of Jesus' trial, death and resurrection by going to http://www.thebricktestament.com

Parents should note that not all "lego stories" may be appropriate to allow your children to view by themselves. But, the stories from the life of Christ may be something you'd enjoy looking at as a family.

Celebrate the gift of forgiveness this week. Do you get upset easily? Do you stay mad, or do you forgive? Since Jesus forgave us, we should also forgive others. Let's act on that during this special Easter season.

Little Leads To Bigger

King David did not start off as a king. He started as a shepherd. He needed to feed, guide, and protect those sheep. One time he had to protect them from a bear. Another time he protected them from a lion.

David took care of his father's sheep, and always did his best. As a result, God our heavenly Father, put David in charge of the people of Israel -- God's sheep. Because David was faithful in little ways, he was rewarded in big ways. Because he was faithful with small responsibilities, he was later trusted with bigger responsibilities.

That's the way God works. God watches to see if we handle small things well. If we do, we are rewarded and given the opportunity to do bigger things.

Luke 16:10 says, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”

Matthew 25:23 “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”

A couple of other verses to read are Revelation 22:12 and Psalm 62:12.

Each of us, no matter how old, have things we should take care of. If you are faithful with little stuff, you will be rewarded with more. That's the way God does it.

Are there any little things you should be taking care of today? Pray about it, and then get up and do your best! You will be glad you did!

The Wise Person

Last Sunday we spoke about having lives built on the solid foundation of God's truth. Jesus talked about this in Matthew 7:24-27. Take time to read that. We had a crazy time with a couple of clowns acting out this story.

Jesus said, "Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."

It's important to not only HEAR God's Word, but also put it into practice.

People can have coaches tell them what to do in sports...but they also need to put it into action.
Musicians can have lessons on their instruments...but they also have to practice what they've heard.
Christians can listen to pastors, parents and teachers...but it doesn't count unless actions accompany the learning.

Are there things God has told you to do that you need to do?

There is a time to listen, and there is also a time to then get up and DO it!

For a fun time, you may take turns leading "Simon Sez." One person gives directions, and others do the actions. It's important to listen to the right person giving good directions in this game. Even more important, we need to listen to God's directions and DO what he says. That way, you may be a winner in the game of life!

Faithful In the Little Things

Take time to read Luke 19:11-27. Here is a story of a ruler who allowed his servants to work with the money (counted in "minas") that he owned.

The ones that were faithful and diligent were given more.

What are some little things around the house that you are asked to do?

Can you be trusted to do them on your own?

As you show yourself faithful and trustworthy, the people in charge will notice, and you'll be rewarded too!

That's the way God works too.

Selflessness

God calls us to think less of ourselves and more of Him. ...less of ourselves and more of others.

In second service, Madison said to us that a good way to think of serving Jesus is by using the world JOY.

Jesus first.
Others second.
Yourself last.

Take a moment to read Philippians 2:3&4. This is great advice for our families.

How can you put others before yourself? What can you do to help others, rather than look out for your own wants? Are there times you can put the interests of others before your own interests?

Sometimes this is hard to do, but if we are going to be more like Jesus, we need to work at this. Read Philippians 2:5-9. It tells us about Jesus attitude. Let's pray that we all have attitudes that look to help others rather than focus on our own selfish wants. When our attitudes are more like Christ, it will also affect our actions.

Have a great week serving Jesus!

March Missions Madness!

During this month, we will be giving focus to missions in a fun and exciting way!

Have you ever experienced the energy and passion of the NCAA basketball tournament in March? Some fans spend hundreds of dollars to get to the game, dress up in their team's colors, and support their school. Millions of dollars are spent on television to show the games. People skip work to watch the games. So, they are losing money, instead of earning money during that time. This is all done for a few guys who take a round ball and put it through a hoop. This is all part of "March Madness."

I think basketball is exciting, but there's something even MORE exciting. It involves people who are part of God's team. We have a goal and it's even more important than putting a ball through a hoop! We want to put the gospel into people's hearts! Fact is, our coach (Jesus) wants the message of his great love to spread all around the world.

So, this is what we are doing:

1. This Sunday (March 8), every child that comes to kids church will receive a M&M container. (It's for March Missions!) Children may eat, or share, the M&M's. Then, for the next three Sundays they should try to fill their container with quarters. (No pennies or washers, please.) Every Sunday in March, they may bring back their container to Kids Church when it's full. We will give them ANOTHER new M&M container each time they bring back a full one.

2. On March 15th, we will have special guests -- Africa missionaries, Jeff & Abby Hunt! Years ago, Abby was the assistant children's pastor for Pastor Randy while they lived in Wisconsin. Jeff & Abby are great folks that love kids. They will be sharing in our Kids Church service.

3. On March 15th, we will be giving out awards to the kids that have reached the different giving levels.

4. Each Sunday in March we will be giving out secret chair prizes that relate to our March Missions Madness basketball theme. YOU could be a winner!

5. This Sunday morning, Renee Barnes will have a special B.G.M.C. display in the foyer upstairs. Families and adults are encouraged to pick up a B.G.M.C. box which they may use throughout the year. (These are not for kids who already use Buddy Barrels or the M&M container.)

Thanks for being a part of sharing Jesus with people all around the world. Please be in prayer with us for our missionary friends. Also, please pray with us that more money will come in so that we can help more missionaries.

Pastor Willie George says this, "The gospel is free. But, it takes money to get it out there!" Let's do our best for Jesus.

Time to go search through your couch cushions! There might be some money hiding there that will help others come to know Jesus.

Cowboys and Training

We discussed how cowboys need to train their horses on Sunday.

Did you know that the scripture in Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go..."? The word "train" in hebrew actually refers to the mouth. One of the ideas is that a horse has a bit put in it's mouth, and it's by that that a horse is directed--or "trained." The rider needs to direct the horse. He let's it loose so the horse can run. He pulls back so it slows down. He guides the horse so it goes where it needs to go and does what it needs to do.

Sometimes people are more like "stubborn mules" than they are like trained horses. It's all in one's attitude. God wants us to have soft hearts, not be hard-headed! We need to be teachable and trainable.

Proverbs 12:1 says, "He who hates correction is stupid." Wow. That's a strong word. But people who are unwilling to listen to correction are headed down a wrong path. People who are not teachable will selfishly go where they want and do what they want...and it will lead to trouble eventually.

Proverbs 1:1 advises, "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance."

Look up Proverbs 1:8 and Proverbs 10:17 & Proverbs 12:15. These are some great verses for you to talk about with your family.

Hide God's Word in your heart, and it will be like a lamp to guide you through your days!

Kidsworld - Focus For 2009

I've attached a short presentation here for all children's ministry workers. There are four key things I believe we need to focus on during 2009. Please take time to watch this presentation (about 12 minutes) and pray about the concepts that are shared. I've featured kids and Kidsworld workers from our church in this presentation.

Thanks for all you do! God wants to do great things in the lives of kids and families, and I believe he is using YOU to do just that in 2009!


Pastor Randy

Where Seldom Is Heard, A Discouraging Word...

Hey Y'all! Yippe yi yo ki yay!

I have no idea what that means, but it sounds cowboy-ish!

We are starting a short series where we are using cowboy stuff to help us learn our lessons! This past Sunday Vic Poverud shared about how families should encourage each other.

Sometimes family members get in a bad habit of discouraging each other, rather than cheering each other on! It's easy to find weaknesses and bad habits and little irritating things in the ones that are closest to us. It is easy to question the decisions of brothers and sisters, even if the decision is just something as simple as picking a color crayon. ("Why did you pick BLUE, instead of PURPLE?!!!)

We need to be careful to use our words to encourage others. We need to have attitudes that support and help our families be happy.

In Ephesians 4:29-32 the apostle Paul shares GREAT advice for each one of us. God wants to help each one of your families to live this out. (Take time to read that verse now.)

Instead of looking at the things that might frustrate you with your family members, take time to list THREE things you like about them. Or list three things that they do well. I encourage you to take time EACH DAY this week, and look for three things (three different things) each day. Then, make sure you tell them at least one of those things. They will be encouraged...and so will you! It'll make everything a little better "Home on the Range."

God Supplies!

This past Sunday morning, a group of men and women from Teen Challenge shared with our families. Numerous testimonies were given about God's help in hard times.

Philippians 4:19 states, "My God shall supply all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

You can trust God, even in the tough times! He know what you need, and He wants to give it to you.

Have you ever started to bake cookies and found out that you were missing an ingredient? You could not complete the recipe. You had to stop and go to the store to get that missing part.

Sometimes in life, people do not realize that they have a missing ingredient until things start going wrong. Then, they start to examine what that missing thing is. Often times, people will then try to fill their hearts and lives with something. The missing item usually is ...a strong relationship with Jesus!

Take care of that first. Have a strong relationship with Jesus. Read your Bible. Pray. Go to church whenever you can. Listen to those in authority.

When you put HIM first, you can know that he will supply all that you need!

Read Matthew 6:25-34 to find out more about what Jesus says about this!

Family Fights!

The Bible is full of examples of real-life people, in real families that have real problems!

Sometimes fights happen because people have different opinions? Ask each one in your family, "What is your favorite ice cream flavor?" Everyone has a different taste. No one is wrong. Just each one likes something different.

The fight comes in when people think only of themselves, and not others. Read James 4:1-3. That kind of explains some of the fights that happen in families, doesn't it?

A guy in the Bible had some BIG family fights with his brothers. You may read about Joseph and that whole problem in Genesis 37:12-36. You can read about how that all ended up in Genesis 41:56,57 and Genesis chapter 42, 43, 44 and 45. (That's a lot of reading, but you could take some time each day and look at a chapter.)

God's plan is for our good. God's plan is for us to love each other.

1 John 4:7,8 says, "Let us love one another, for love comnes from God. Everyone who loves has been bortn of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God..."

Let's show the love of God to every person in our families.

See you soon!

Honoring Parents

This past Sunday, as part of our "Family Series," we talked about showing honor to our parents with our words, our actions, and our attitudes.

You may read a little known story about Noah and his sons in Genesis 9:18-29. Ham dishonored Noah by making fun of him. Shem and Japheth showed honor by covering their father's "weakness."

Exodus 20:12 says that we should honor our parents. Ephesians 6:1 gives direction on another way you may honor your parents.

Deuteronomy 12:25 says, "Do what is right in the eyes of the Lord."

Remember, honoring your parents is ALWAYS the right thing to do, even if they don't always make the right decision.

See you soon!

Family and Parents

Today in Kids Church we talked about Exodus 20:12 "Honor your father and your mother so that you may live long on the earth."

We understand that God's plan is for our good. ...and part of that plan is for us to receive direction for our lives, our behaviour and our attitudes.

Do you remember the name of the girl who had a special type of puppet made for her? If you will come next Sunday and tell me the name of the girl, I will give you an award.

This special puppet is controlled by someone moving it's strings. It is given direction by the one holding onto the "airplane". In the same way, God has given kids parents to help give kids direction too.

Take some time to read about Josiah. He didn't have a dad, but God still had a great plan for his life. You may read about his dad (Amon) in 2 Kings 21:20-24. Then you may read about Josiah in 2 Kings 22:1-7 and 2 Kings 23:1-3. Josiah did not have a dad that loved and served God, but Josiah still did what honored God.

Lastly, don't forget that pre-registration for our Snow Blast Retreat (for 2nd-6th graders) is this Wednesday. Retreat STARTS at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. See you there!

Family - Standing Up!

Here at the Assembly of God in Willmar, we are STANDING UP for families!

God's plan is for families to fight FOR each other, not just WITH each other!

We learned a verse this Sunday found in Joshua 25:15. Will your family say the same thing that Joshua said!?

Each person is an important part of the family. Just like a puzzle, that's missing a piece...that's the way your family would be without you!

Today, why not take some time to:

1. do a puzzle with others, and realize that each of you are an important piece to God's puzzle.

2. Talk about, "How can our family serve the Lord together?" ...like Joshua 25:15 says.

3. Read about the first family in Genesis 2:15-22 & Genesis 4:1-9.

Have a great week!

Give God FIVE!

This past Sunday we took time to P.R.A.Y.

Do you remember what each letter stood for?

P was ?

R was ?

A was ?

Y was ?

I also encouraged everyone to "Give God 5!" in 2009. Give God FIVE minutes of Praise. (That was the first "P".) Give God FIVE minutes of Bible reading. And also spend FIVE minutes in prayer.

It's easy to spend five minutes in prayer if you simply use the P.R.A.Y. plan.

P is for PRAISE

R is for REPENT (which means you choose to go God's way instead of your own way.)

A is for ASK (which handles all the stuff you want to ask God for)

Y is for YEILD (We always need to remember that God's way is best. Also, take time to LISTEN to what God is trying to say to you.)

In 2009 take time to give God FIVE each day! Why not take time to do that right now!