Noel Dear

God-Truths I Have Learned Through Adoption

2011-12-31T14:27:00.000-05:00

We returned last night from our seventeen day journey through China to adopt Rae Michelle Dear (formerly Yang Rui). It was a memorable trip, no major issues. We are thankful to be home and we are so very thankful for Rae. I know the journey has really only just begun, and there is much for me to learn, but I wanted to share a few thoughts that came to me as I was pondering the events of the last week or so while flying home yesterday. Already, through being Rae’s earthly father for about ten days, I have learned some important truths about my heavenly Father.

#1: God loves me more than I know! We have had some difficult days with Rae, especially in the beginning. Everything we did to try to help her, whether it was getting her to take a bath, brush her teeth, or stop jumping on the bed was because we loved her and wanted what was best for her. But she didn't understand that. Our actions didn't seem like love from her perspective. She often stubbornly rejected our warnings and instructions. If only she could understand how much we love her and how everything we say or do is an expression of that love. That makes me think… How often does the same situation happen between the heavenly Father and me, his adopted son? How often do I reject His warnings and instructions because on some level I foolishly question His love?

#2: There is a better way to live! Rae doesn't understand how much better life will be. She has been living in poverty. She has been living without the benefit of a family. She hasn't had proper medical care. Her future as a special needs child in the orphan system in China was very bleak. I know there is no guarantee her life will now be a bed of roses, but she will at least have her basic needs met, she will have a loving family, she will have good medical care, and she will have the hope of a great future. But she just doesn't understand. The institutional life of the orphanage is all she knows. She cannot comprehend what 'better' even is. She has no idea what she has missed out on. That makes me think… Is the same thing true when I push against the life my heavenly Father wants me to live? I am afraid that too often I wrongly think my life of selfishness and sin is the best life for me. I wonder what I am missing out on.

#3: I can never comprehend the depth of God’s love and the cost of the cross! Rae doesn't understand the sacrifice her family made to adopt her and bring her to America. She has no idea. She has no comprehension of what a thousand dollars is, much less many thousands of dollars. And not only was there a financial sacrifice but the major lifestyle change that comes with adding a new six-year-old to a family that is just beginning to enjoy the fruits of maturing children. She understands none of this, nor could she understand if we tried to explain it. That makes me think… How much do I really comprehend about the price the Lord paid to make my adoption as His son possible? I claim to have some understanding of the cross, the agony, and the shame that Jesus faced, but do I really? Or is it beyond my ability to understand just as our family’s sacrifice is beyond Rae’s ability to understand?

#4: My salvation does not correlate with my merit! Rae doesn't understand the significance and the value of her being chosen out of so many orphans in China and around the world. There is a better biblical word for this, but it could be said that she is pretty LUCKY. She was not chosen because of any merit of her own. She was not chosen because she had something to offer. She wasn't chosen because of her parents, her intelligence, her goodness, her beauty, or any other human measurement of worthwhileness. She was simply chosen by the providence of God. Only a handful of orphans get the chance that she has been given. That makes me think… The most valuable thing I have is my relationship with God. I am reminded of Ephesians 1:4-5 which says, “He chose [me] in Him before the foundation of the world, that [I] should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined [me] to adoption as [a] son … according to the good pleasure of His will.” Not because of any merit, but simply because of his grace, I am blessed beyond measure with salvation! The Lord convicted me; I responded to His working; He saved me by His grace.

#5: I need to better accept the Lord’s help! Maybe it is due to her institutional life for the last several years, but Rae is fiercely independent. She doesn't want me to help her with anything. There have been so many times in the last few days that I could have been such a blessing to her if she would have just let me help. I have watched her carry around a banana for an hour while being terribly hungry but refusing to let me help her peel it. As I am writing this we are in an airplane somewhere over Canada. She is trying to play a video game but can't get it to work because she is starting at the wrong spot. She refuses to let me help. She is angry because she can't get it to work. The solution is sitting next to her and it would take less than five seconds, but she wants to be independent. That makes me think… I wonder how frustrating it must be for the Lord when I insist on doing things my own way instead of leaning on His word and wisdom. I wonder how sad He must be when he sees me struggle in life when help is only a prayer away.

#6: The God of the universe takes pleasure in me when I honor Him! Rae has no idea about the pleasure and joy she brings to her new parents. Even on the most difficult days, we have rejoiced over her. The simple times when she has looked at me and said, "Xie xie babba" (thank you daddy) when I have done the smallest favors for her have set my heart ablaze with joy. That makes me think… I often forget (and I am sure I have never really understood) how the heavenly Father takes pleasure in me and my praise and worship of Him.

I could go on, and I probably will in the days to come. But for now I am enjoying my new daughter for the joy she brings and the lessons she teaches!

Noel

It All Begins Tomorrow

2011-12-17T16:05:00.000-05:00

As I write this it is 3:30 a.m. on Sunday morning. Looking out my hotel window, it appears thatBeijing is asleep. Me and my friend,Jetlag, are answering a few emails and pondering what is going to happentomorrow. There have been some bigevents in my life, and I have even been privileged enough to check-off a fewbucket list items through the years, but somehow tomorrow seems like a biggerdeal than anything I have ever done before.

Twenty-six years ago, I accepted Christ as my Savior. Of course, that has to be the mostsignificant thing that has ever happened to me. I remember people telling me way back then that it wouldn’t last, and Ifeared they were correct. However, as itturns out, that was real, and the Lord is real, and by his grace, he has stuckwith me for a very long time. I wasmarried sixteen years ago. That was abig change, and a good one, and a lasting one. Donna and I have been blessed with two children (the biological way),and of course those were life-changers. And there have been some other big events through the years that havestretched me and my family. I think ofleaving engineering school to go into the ministry. I think of leaving the familiarity of theSouth and moving to Ohio. But somehow,what is going to happen tomorrow seems bigger than all of that.

I suppose it has something to do with pushing the boundariesof my comfort zone, or maybe it is the factor of the unknown, or maybe it isthe fact that once done, this cannot be undone, but tomorrow feels like thebiggest step in my life.

This isn’t the biggest step because I am fearful. I believe the Lord has been preparing myfamily for this for a long time. I amblessed with a very strong marriage and two godly daughters who I know arewilling to make the sacrifices this adoption may require. I have exceptionally good friends and awonderful church family standing behind me. I know there could be some hard days ahead, but I am ready for thechallenge.

This isn’t the biggest step because of any hesitation ordoubt. I think I have always known Iwould adopt. Years ago the motivationwas for reasons too personal to write in this blog, but for the last twentyyears it has been something I just felt like would happen. Through this eighteen-monthadoption-paperwork-pregnancy there have been many questions. There have been questions about specialneeds, domestic versus international, and questions about finances. But never have we questioned the fact that weshould adopt.

This isn’t the biggest step because of the words of thecritics. I have learned that if you aregoing to do anything important in life, there will be critics. People have told us that we are squanderingour money. People have told us that weare being unfair to our first two daughters. People have told us that we are ruining the American economy by bringingforeigners to the land. None of thosekinds of comments have done anything but cause us to loose respect for some reallyselfish people.

I believe this feels like the biggest step in my lifebecause I am convinced that somehow my life is intersecting with the Kingdom ofGod. As I write that, I am not even surewhat it means, but I believe it just the same.

James, the half-brother of Jesus wrote that real religionconsists of three things. One of thosethree is taking care of orphans. I knowthere is much more to the Christian life than orphan-care and there are many othersignificant ways to serve the Lord, but James’ list does give real insight tothe heart of the Father. James isn’t theonly Bible writer that speaks of adoption. Paul talks about believers eagerly waiting for the day when they willreceive their full inheritance as adopted sons of God. He writes of how the Father adopted us out ofsin and suffering and has given us new hope and new life. So, the first one to choose to adopt was noneother than God himself. (I wonder if hehad to fill out the stacks of paperwork we had to complete.)

I don’t know today if my adopted daughter, Rui, is ‘eagerlywaiting,’ as the apostle Paul describes or not. I have no idea if she has any idea of how her life is about tochange. (I wonder if she is lying wide-awakein the middle of the night right now, like her new dad, wondering what tomorrowholds.) But I do know this: God, in His wisdom and sovereignty, haschosen a little girl, living in the squalor of poverty and hopelessness in apagan country, and he has seen fit to put her in a family where she will hearthe gospel and among friends and in a church that will show her the love ofChrist. And I know that whatever God isup to in her life and around the world, He has chosen to let me be a part ofthat… and it begins tomorrow.

Noel Dear

Weekly Email

2011-10-21T08:29:00.000-04:00

We send out an email each week to those on our church email list. Occasionally we post these emails to this blog just as a reminder that if you are not on the list and would like to be, just send us an email (info@fbcho.com).

525 S 30th St -- Heath, OH -- 43056
www.FirstBaptistHeath.com
info@fbcho.com -- 740.522.5245

From the Pastor's Desk

Dear Church Family,

I hope you enjoyed "Exotic Animal Week" here in central Ohio! I know the Bible says there is nothing new under the sun, but we came close last week with our lions, tigers, and bears. It has been a week to remember.

Last Sunday was a memorable day as well. We had a great crowd and a sweet spirit. I have heard so many comments this week about decisions made. Praise the Lord for His goodness.

Last week we wrapped up our nine week series of messages on "Knowing the Real Jesus" from the gospel of Mark. This week we begin something new with a series titled:

I'm All In!

We are going to talk about what it means to be "all in" with the Lord. This is going to be a little different than what we usually do. I am very excited about what I believe the Lord will accomplish in and through us these next five weeks.

If you want to read ahead, we will be focusing on John 6:5-14 and Mark 6:32-44 this first Sunday.

Of course, the times are as usual: Connect Groups (Sunday School) at 9:30 and our morning worship at 10:45. I love you and I look forward to seeing you this Sunday.

Pastor Noel

Sunday Preview! (9.11.2011)

2011-09-08T16:12:00.000-04:00

525 S 30th St -- Heath, OH -- 43056
www.FirstBaptistHeath.com
info@fbcho.com -- 740.522.5245

From the Pastor's Desk

It has been a short but busy week in the church office, but it has been good. Just some of what has been taking place…

This was the first week back in AWANA, our Wednesday children’s ministry.
We kicked off our new Mom’s Day Out program this week. It is called Tuesday School.
We have been getting ready for the Beth Moore Simulcast that happens Saturday. We have had to stop selling tickets at 200 because of a capacity crowd.
We are gearing up for our new Connect Groups to start on Sunday. A ton of brand new adult groups will begin this week!

We are really looking forward to this Sunday. As we continue to focus on “The Real Jesus” in our Sunday morning message series, I will be preaching this week from Mark 2:1-12. I have preached on this passage a number of times, but as I studied for the message this week, the Lord showed me a completely different direction to go. The passage speaks to the one need that everyone has. We struggle and strive for many things that will not ultimately bring any joy or peace to life, but if we can seek after this one thing, then we will find satisfaction.

In our service, we will also spend a little time remembering what happened on this day ten years ago. Do you remember where you were when the buildings came down on 9/11?

I hope you will join us for one of our small groups this Sunday. All of the groups are starting over this week so this will be a great week to jump in. The groups all begin at 9:30. If you haven’t signed up for a group, that is fine.
Just come a little early to the main foyer outside the worship center. There will be people there to help you and your family all find the perfect group.

Below the line are a few announcements I encourage you to read through.

I love you and I look forward to seeing you this Sunday in worship.

Pastor Noel

FYI!

This Sunday night we will be worshipping the Lord by taking the Lord’s Supper. The service begins at 6:00 p.m.
If you know of someone who would like to receive one of these weekly emails, ask them to send their name and email address to info@fbcho.com.
Children’s Choir starts back this Sunday evening at 6:00 p.m.
The long standing Men’s Thursday Night Bible Study begins back this coming week (9/15) at 6:30 p.m.
The next New Member’s Class will be Wednesday, September 21 at 6:30 p.m. Email (info@fbcho.com) or call 740-522-5245 if you would like to attend.

John the Baptist Outlines

2011-07-28T07:31:00.000-04:00

To my regular readers... The file below is for submission in a grad school class I am taking. It is posted here for others in the class to download. Read at your own risk :).

John the Baptist - Outlines - First Draft

Theology 101 -- The Word of God

2011-07-20T15:09:00.002-04:00

Theology 101 — The Word of God

Sundays at 6:00 p.m.

July 31, August 7, 14, 21

Are you ready to go to the next level in your understanding of God and His word? Do you sometimes struggle to understand how all of the pieces of Bible truth fit together? Would you like to be better able to lead a class, teach your children, or answer a friend's questions about the Bible?

We have what you need!

On August 1, we will begin a series of messages taking a deep look at the theology of the Bible. In the beginning, we will spend four weeks focusing on the doctrine of the Word of God. Following these four weeks we will begin to walk through the other doctrines of Scripture like the doctrine of God, the doctrine of Christ and the Holy Spirit, the doctrine of sin, the doctrine of eternal punishment, and so forth. It will likely take about one year to cover all of the major doctrines, especially since we will do these in bite size pieces of four to six weeks each.

Each week, we will pass out notes formatted for a three-ring binder. We will make audio CD's and spiral bound notes available at the end of each doctrine study (four to six weeks). We will also have available for purchase a recommended resource for further study ("Systematic Theology" by Wayne Grudem, $28.00). Binders, CD's, and books will all be available in our bookstore.

To keep things interesting, there will be an opportunity to submit questions via texting pertaining to the focus of each lesson while the pastor is teaching. At the end of the worship service each night, the pastor will expand his teachings and try to answer the pertinent questions. Also, a take-home test will be provided at the end of each doctrine study so you can see just how much you have learned.

Join us for this study which we trust will be enlightening, informative, and fun!

Prep for Tomorrow

2011-05-07T11:13:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow's message outline is printed in the bulletin, and Carla did the projection slides for me yesterday, but I need today to polish things up a bit. So it is a study day.

I will be preaching on the Six Actions of a Healthy Family from Ephesians 5:22-25; 6:1-4. I am really looking forward to sharing this on Mother's Day.

I ran across an illustration in my reading today that is way too corny to use in a message, but some of you will enjoy. Here it is:

Recipe For Child Raising
1 cup of Proverbs 22:6
2 Tablespoons of Proverbs 19:13
1 Dash of Proverbs 23:13
1 Teaspoon of Proverbs 3:5
1/2 cup of Titus 2:3 through 7
Mix all the ingredients, add a pound of persistence, one cup of love, and whip until right consistency. This recipe is recommended by the Creator of Mankind.
Please add a pinch of Ephesians 6:4

(I will list the Scripture verses below.)

So now I am going to sit out on the deck, and obey 1 Timothy 4:13, "Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine." I'm reading "The Fulfilled Family" by John MacArthur. Good book. You can purchase it from Amazon. (Soon, when our construction is complete, we will have books like this that relate to Sunday's messages for sale in our bookstore each week.)

Remember, our new Connect Group semester begins tomorrow. If you haven't yet signed up for a group, just come a little early, and you can get signed up at the main welcome center in the worship center foyer.

Hope to see you tomorrow!

Pastor Noel

--------

Proverbs 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 19:13 - A foolish son is the ruin of his father, And the contentions of a wife are a continual dripping.
Proverbs 23:13 - Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.
Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;
Titus 2:3 - the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—
Ephesians 6:4 - And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

Help for Tornado Victims in Alabama and Mississippi

2011-04-29T07:45:00.000-04:00

I spoke with several pastors last night who are helping with the effort to assist and minister to victims of the tornados that tore through the south this week. The stories are heartbreaking. One pastor told me of finding a family digging through the rubble of their home to desperately find enough pieces of clothing to be able to dress their kids. Another pastor told me of the death of a man who laid over his kids to protect them from flying debris.

I told these pastors that our church family will want to help. I have pledged that we would stand with them in any way we could as they seek to meet needs in the name of Christ and minister to these hurting families.

I hesitate to do this via a blog because at FBC Heath we never ask for money from those outside our church, but let me give an appeal to our members and regular attenders. If you would like to help with this, above your regular giving, you can go to our church website and give electronically (by credit/debit card or by ACH from a bank account) or you can call the church office today and someone will assist you with electronic giving. We will also provide an opportunity for people to give in our services this Sunday.

I will share more with everyone on Sunday. Keep these churches in your prayers as they reach out.

Pastor Noel

Getting Ready For Easter 2011

2011-04-14T09:59:00.000-04:00

Here is a letter I just emailed to our church family. In case you aren't on our email list...

---------------------------------
Dear FBC Heath Family,

We are very excited about Easter 2011. This is the best time of the year for believers to worship and honor the Lord! Let me highlight two events designed to help us do that.

Secret Church

Secret Church will be an event like none you have experienced before. It will take place on Friday (4/22) night. We will gather in the worship center and watch a simulcast along with tens of thousands of others accross the country as Dr. David Platt teaches about the crucifixion and the resurrection. This event begins at 7:00 p.m. and goes until 1:00 a.m. the next morning. It will be intense. It will be educational. It will be inspiring!

Read one of my recent blog posts for more details (click here).

If you are planning to attend, please let us know in one of these four ways:

Registering on our FBC Heath Secret Church Facebook page (click here).
Emailing us at SecretChurch@fbcho.com.
Filling out a Secret Church card in one of our Sunday services and dropping the card in the offering plate or a Connection Box.
Calling the church office (740.522.5245).

Easter Services

On Easter day we will have services at 9:00 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.. These services will be identical so join us for whichever is most convienent for your family.

Invite your friends and family to join us. This is such an important day and you have such a good opportunity to encourage people who might not ordinarily come to join us. I hope you will take this opportunity.

Our focus this Easter will be on the ressurrection, as usual, but maybe from a little different angle. We will be asking the question: What if you only had FIFTY DAYS TO LIVE?

Most of us, if we knew we only had fifty days to live would live very differently. We would squeeze all the life we could out of those days. We would strive to make those days the best days of our lives. So… What keeps us from living like that now?

This Easter and in the weeks to follow, we will learn the answer to that question, and we will learn how we can live our lives the the fullest. This will be a life changing opportunity for everyone who attends.

Here are some ideas for how you can invite your friends, co-workers, and neighbors:

Invite them to the FBC Heath Easter Service facebook event (click here).
Ask friends and family the question, "What would you do if you only had fifty days to live?" Share with them that we will be focusing on that this Easter Sunday.
Let your friends and family know we have two different service times for their convienence.
Stop by the church and pick up a handfull of invitation cards. Hand them out to those you see and those in your neighborhood.
Pray specifically for six people you would like to invite. Then call them up and see if they will join you.

You can think of many more ways. The important thing is to not wait too late. This is going to be a great day. I hope to see you and your friends and family there!

(To keep up with new information the week of easter, visit our church facebook page and click 'like'. That will put our updates on your newsfeed.)

Pastor Noel

Vacation Bible School

2011-04-01T07:34:00.000-04:00

Vacation Bible School is something we look forward to every year. It is one of the very best weeks of the year in our ministry because we get to minister to so many children and families. This year VBS is going to be a little different. First, the date. Due to the construction going on at the church and some other scheduling priorities, we have decided to do it much later in the summer. Our dates this year will be Monday, August 1 through Friday, August 5. Not only does this avoid some facility and scheduling conflicts, but we believe the timing will give us a great push into the next school year.

Another change is our mission/outreach emphasis this year. A few weeks ago in a meeting with pastor Wally and Christine, we made some block party arrangements for a couple of places in Heath where there are a ton of children and young families we would love to reach. Those events will happen the week prior to VBS. (The dates are still pending because we have to get approval from the city.) These will be great times for us to draw some young families out to large outdoor parties and get their kids registered for VBS.

Our prayer is that through these two events and our annual VBS bus route that we will be able to utilize both busses to accommodate all the kids. Wouldn’t that be a great first!

We have decided to do VBS this year in the evening. That is a difficult decision. Originally, when we set up the block parties, we were planning to do a noon to three schedule. There are pro’s and con’s with each of the possible time slots. It’s not an obvious decision. The biggest problem with the evening is workers. Last year in the morning we had about 65 workers, the most we’ve ever had. (Several people even took a week’s vacation to work last year.) To do an evening VBS with our block party focus, it is going to require at least 110 workers. In order to make sure we can handle things safely, we will be asking workers to make commitments in the next couple of months, and we will have to limit the number of kids we can register based on the number of workers we have. So it so important that everyone gets on board quickly. We will need many people to serve this year who haven’t traditionally been VBS workers. This is going to need to be a whole church effort.

I am excited. I believe these block parties are going to help us reach many kids who have never been a part of our VBS or any of our other ministries before. I believe this is going to be a great step into our fall ministries. I believe we will see lives changed and changed for eternity. What a great way to break in our new children’s ministry facility!

The first organizational meeting is this Sunday (4.3) at 4:30 in Harmon Hall. Join the team now, it will be the best thing you do this summer!

Pastor Noel

Good Friday - Secret Church

2011-03-15T09:49:00.000-04:00

On Friday, April 22, we will have SECRET CHURCH!

I have been looking forward to this for weeks. This will be a life-changing, God-honoring event.

So, you are thinking, "What in the world is SECRET CHURCH?" Good question.

Several years ago, a large church in Birmingham, Alabama began to have marathon Bible study nights that they called "SECRET CHURCH". The name came from the secret church in China that often meets late at night and often all night long. As the people in this Birmingham church (The Church at Brook Hills) would meet and study the Bible, they would also pray for their persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ in the underground church in China and other places around the world where Christians have to meet in secret.

This SECRET CHURCH event has taken on a life of its own over the years, largely because of the incredible preacher/teacher, David Platt. Dr. Platt is probably one of the top two or three Bible teachers today. He has a way of taking very complicated truths and making them clear and easily understood.

I have eagerly waited for and listened to audios of most of the past SECRET CHURCH sessions and I have done this for years. I grow so much from this concentrated Bible study.

So what makes this different from any other Bible study? Another good question.

One thing is simply the gifted teaching from such an effective communicator as David Platt, but there is another reason this teaching is so valuable. In each SECRET CHURCH event, David teaches everything the Bible says about the topic of the night. This is a complete study. How does he do that? How can he be so thorough? Well, are you sitting down? Then, I'll tell you: He teaches for six hours straight! Well maybe not straight, there are a few breaks, but SECRET CHURCH immerses you into the Bible as you study the chosen topic with an exhaustive and in-depth study. This is exhaustive but not exhausting. In fact, to attend one of the actual SECRET CHURCH events which they host at a very large venue, you have to get tickets months in advance. This is an incredible experience.

So on Good Friday, the day that commemorates the crucifixion of Christ, we are going to broadcast a live simulcast of this year's SECRET CHURCH event from the Church at Brook Hills.

David will take about six hours and teach everything you ever wanted to know about the crucifixion of Christ. Here is the official description of the topic:

Crucifixion, Salvation, and the Glory of God - From cover to cover in Scripture, God’s grand design is to display His glory in the salvation of sinners. The climax of this redemptive plan is the cross of Christ, where God pours out His wrath due sin upon His Son so that we might receive His mercy. But how is Christ’s work on the cross applied to our lives? In the words of the Philippian jailer, “What must we do to be saved?” During this Secret Church, we will explore how the Bible answers this question as we consider God’s love, Christ’s atonement, and the Christian’s conversion, regeneration, justification, sanctification, and eventual glorification. In the end, we will find ourselves boasting only in the cross of Christ, through which we have received the grace of God and by which we now live for the glory of God.

This will be a great night.

Here is how the logistics will work:

The event begins at 7:00 p.m. Adults and youth will be in the worship center. We will have study guides for everyone so you can follow along and take notes. The teaching will go until around 1:00 a.m.. There will be breaks through-out the night at which time we will have snacks and refreshments. There is no cost for the event. The books cost us $7, so we will collect an offering at some point in the night to help defray some of that cost. If we collect more than is needed, we will send the rest to be used to support the underground church in China.

Childcare will be provided for children from kindergarten to fifth grade. There will be no cost for the child care. We ask that parents secure there own arrangements for children younger than that.

Much more information coming soon. Mark this date, though, on your calendar. Let this Easter season be one with a very strong focus on Christ. Let this event be the cornerstone of that!

Pastor Noel

Do You Take Advice Well?

2011-03-11T04:52:00.004-05:00

How are you at taking advice? In preparation for a Bible Study, I looked for all of the verses in Proverbs that say something about taking advice from people. Take a poke through these... (I included both the New King James and the New Living Translation. For me, I love reading Proverbs out of these two side by side.)

	The New King James Version	New Living Translation
Proverbs 10:17	He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.	People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.
Proverbs 12:15	The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise.	Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.
Proverbs 13:10	By pride comes nothing but strife, But with the well-advised is wisdom.	Pride leads to conflict; those who take advice are wise.
Proverbs 13:13	He who despises the word will be destroyed, But he who fears the commandment will be rewarded.	People who despise advice are asking for trouble; those who respect a command will succeed.
Proverbs 13:14	The law of the wise is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death.	The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death.
Proverbs 13:18	Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction, But he who regards a rebuke will be honored.	If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored.
Proverbs 15:10	Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way, And he who hates correction will die.	Whoever abandons the right path will be severely disciplined; whoever hates correction will die.
Proverbs 15:12	A scoffer does not love one who corrects him, Nor will he go to the wise.	Mockers hate to be corrected, so they stay away from the wise.
Proverbs 15:22	Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.	Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.
Proverbs 15:32	He who disdains instruction despises his own soul, But he who heeds rebuke gets understanding.	If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.
Proverbs 18:2	A fool has no delight in understanding, But in expressing his own heart.	Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.
Proverbs 19:20	Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you may be wise in your latter days.	Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life.
Proverbs 19:27	Cease listening to instruction, my son, And you will stray from the words of knowledge.	If you stop listening to instruction, my child, you will turn your back on knowledge.
Proverbs 20:18	Plans are established by counsel; By wise counsel wage war.	Plans succeed through good counsel; don’t go to war without wise advice.
Proverbs 24:5–6	5 A wise man is strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength; 6 For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety.	5 The wise are mightier than the strong, and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger. 6 So don’t go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many advisers.
Proverbs 25:11–12	11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold In settings of silver. 12 Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.	11 Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket. 12 To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.
Proverbs 27:17	As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.	As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
Proverbs 29:1	He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, Will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.	Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be destroyed beyond recovery.

Pastor Noel

Who Needs You?

2011-03-10T07:19:00.004-05:00

One of the best pictures of intercessory prayer is found in the historical account of a battle between the nation of Israel and the Amalekites in Exodus 17. In this battle, the victory hinged on God working through the steadfastness of Moses' prayers.

Read this...

While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them.Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.”

So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill.As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage.Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset.As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle. (Exodus 17:8–13 NLT)

So here are the questions I believe the Holy Spirit impressed on my heart this morning as I studied this passage:

Who is counting on me to pray?
Are there people in the battle of life that are struggling at least in part because I have not been faithful to pray for them as I should? (Or maybe a gentler way to ask the question would be: Are there people in whose life God would be doing a greater work if I were more faithful to pray?)
How faithful am I in praying for others?
Who should I be praying for that I have not been praying for?

Everyone is a Moses to someone. Who is counting on you?

Pastor Noel

New PM Series -- The Lord's Supper

2011-03-09T14:20:00.000-05:00

I am looking forward to this Sunday night's worship. We will begin a new study series focused on the Lord's Supper. The plan is to spend three weeks studying everything the Bible teaches about this very important type of worship. A study like this maybe doesn't sound as exciting as some others like, "Spiritual Warfare" or "End Times Prophecy", but the truths we will uncover in this study are just as valuable to our walk and our worship.

So here is a rough outline of what is coming...

Week 1 (3.13) -- The First Lord's Supper

The Setting
The Elements
The Meaning of the Supper
The Instructions To Repeat
The Controversies

Transubstantiation
Consubstantiation
Memorialism

Week 2 (3.20) -- How The Lord's Supper Was Practiced

The First Church
The Corinthian Church
The Love Feast
The Error
How to Properly Prepare For and Partake In the Lord's Supper

Week 3 (3.27) -- Celebration

Questions & Answers
A Unique Celebration of the Lord's Supper

There is a 50-50 chance we won't get this done in three weeks, but that is the goal. If you want to read ahead, review these passages...

Mark 14:22-25
Matthew 26:26-29
Luke 22:17-20
1 Corinthians 11:17-34

Pastor Noel

Memorizing Scripture

2011-03-01T07:58:00.000-05:00

While studying this morning, I read a sermon preached by John Piper on January 5, 1997 where he talked about memorizing verses of Scripture. I thought this paragraph was especially helpful:

You Can Do It -- You may doubt that you can do this, especially if you are older. But ask yourself this question, If I offered you $1,000 for every verse you memorized in the next week, how many do you think you could memorize? Yet God says of his word in Psalm 19:10–11, “They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Thy servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” The real value of the word is far greater than $1,000 a verse. The question is, Do you believe this? Believing this will be the crucial motivation you need. [Piper, J. (2007). Sermons from John Piper (1990-1999). Minneapolis, MN: Desiring God.]

Something to think about!

Pastor Noel

Some Of The Reasons I'm Excited About Today

2011-02-27T07:18:00.002-05:00

Here are some of the reasons I am excited about today...

***Worship this morning. We get to exalt our Lord.

***We will hear a testimony this morning of a family in our church who chose the path of faithfulness and discovered the blessings of the Lord.

***New message series starts today: How Smart Are You?

***Tonight for the first time, the junior high youth group will be leading the service. The junior high youth band has been practicing for this for weeks. It will be a great night.

***Tonight, following the service is the official meet and greet for the Pletcher's and their three new adopted children from the Ukraine.

***I have a leadership meeting today for final approval of the drawings and budget for the construction of our new preschool facility. Groundbreaking will be next week.

***I have a deacon's meeting today where we will be discussing a new Sunday night series that will begin on March 13 and culminate on March 27 with a very special evening for our church.

***I have a worship pastor search team meeting today where we will be praying about a very serious candidate for church.

That is just a start. I haven't spoken with Pastor Wally, but we probably have baptisms this morning... We will be promoting our New Member class today which already had a ton of people signed up... The preschoolers are working on something special that the church will see next week...

Don't miss this morning!

Pastor Noel

Bible Verses We Like To Hate

2011-02-24T07:30:00.000-05:00

I know, that is an odd title for a blog post, but as I was studying this morning for an upcoming project, I kept running across these verses that made me squirm. I thought perhaps I should share them with you. They may make you squirm now, but if obeyed, they will make you rejoice later.

… Proverbs 24:17 Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, And do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles;

… Romans 12:17 (NLT) Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.

… 1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

… 1 Peter 3:9 (NLT) Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it.

… Proverbs 20:22 (NIV) Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you.

Pastor Noel

Benefits of Obeying God's Word

2011-02-22T10:31:00.000-05:00

In studying for an upcoming message this morning, I was reading through some different kinds of topical Bibles. I ran across this article in one of them. It encouraged me and I thought I would share it...

Benefits of Obeying God’s Word

Psalm 119:2 promises blessings for obeying God’s Word (or “testimonies”) and seeking the Lord with one’s whole heart. The psalm goes on to mention or allude to a number of these benefits:

Avoiding sin and pursuing godliness (Ps. 119:3, 11, 36, 102, 133).
A motivation and basis for praising God (Ps. 119:7, 171).
A pure lifestyle (Ps. 119:9).
Readjustments in our priorities (Ps. 119:14, 92) and values (Ps. 119:16, 20, 37, 48, 72, 103, 111, 127).\
Insight into our purpose on earth (Ps. 119:19, 32, 125).
Avoiding and learning from God’s rebuke (Ps. 119:21–22, 67, 71, 75, 118).
A basis for evaluating criticism and opposition (Ps. 119:23, 41–42, 51, 61, 69, 84–88, 98, 161).
A source of wisdom and guidance for day-to-day life (119:24, 66, 105, 130, 176).
Encouragement, hope, and comfort (Ps. 119:25, 28, 41, 49–50, 52, 55, 61, 81–83, 114, 166).
Something valuable with which to occupy our minds (Ps. 119:27, 55, 62, 97, 147–148) and conversation (119:46, 164, 172).
A basis for truth, honesty, and integrity (Ps. 119:29–30, 99–100, 104, 163).
A sense of freedom (Ps. 119:45).
A source of new songs (Ps. 119:54).
An accurate basis for self-examination (Ps. 119:59).
Fellowship with like-minded believers (Ps. 119:63, 79).
A solid foundation for our faith (Ps. 119:66, 89–90).
Protection and peace (Ps. 119:114, 165).
The ability to discern right from wrong (Ps. 119:136, 138–139, 158).
A motivation and basis for prayer (Ps. 119:169–170).
The Lord’s help (Ps. 119:173–174).

Pastor Noel

Article from: Thomas Nelson Publishers. (2001). What does the Bible say about... The ultimate A to Z resource fully illustrated. Nelson's A to Z series (280–281). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson.

Audio Books

2011-02-07T17:15:00.000-05:00

I enjoy listening to many audio books. In fact, just today I finished "Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy: A Righteous Gentile Vs. The Third Reich". An excellent book about a great theologian I knew very little about before, but now am very inspired by. (I know that was poor grammar.)

Today I ran across a free audio book of a great book I read a few weeks ago: Adopted for Life by Russell Moore. If you would like to listen to this book, you can download it for free here. I promise you won't be disappointed. You may be challenged and convicted, but not disappointed.

Pastor Noel

The Weekend and other Miscellaneous bits...

2011-02-04T14:12:00.002-05:00

I'm looking forward to the weekend. (And not because it's Super Bowl weekend.) Today is my birthday, so what I've asked for is... a family night. It will be a good night at home. I have a suspicion that my wife is cooking some of her ought-to-be famous shrimp and grits, and Emily is cooking me a made-from-scratch cheesecake. We will probably play a game or maybe watch "Secretariat". I have a little bit of a surprise for them, maybe.

This morning started off bad/good. In my quiet time this morning I prayed for Bill Helms, a godly older man in our church. I knew he was close to passing away. I felt the Lord remind me during my prayer time that If Bill died today, he was going to have a much better weekend than me. His wife called about an hour later to share with me that he had just passed.

Tomorrow, Donna and I are going to go out, something we rarely do on Saturdays. For Christmas I had purchased cooking classes for her. That was the one thing I knew she needed least but would enjoy the most. So that is our date tomorrow, taking a cooking class together. Ironically, Jeff and Angela Salyer are going with us. Angela is the second least likely person in the world to need cooking classes. It will be interesting. Maybe Donna and Angela can just teach the class. Jeff and I can handle the eating.

I've been mum on my sermon focus this Sunday because this is going to be one of those difficult messages, but it is important, and I am ready to preach it. It's messages like these that will have the least positive-feedback, but perhaps the most significant impact.

We've got some new church members coming over for lunch Sunday and maybe also some prospects. Still mulling over my Super Bowl plans...

It will be a great weekend!

Noel

P.S.
The Pletchers, some friends who have been in Ukraine for the past two months trying to adopt three little kids, finally return to Ohio tonight. I think they are scheduled to land at CMH at 10:15 p.m.. I can't wait to meet their new children!

Proverbs on Parenting

2011-02-02T11:07:00.001-05:00

In preparation for my Connect Group this week (we are studying the book of Proverbs), I went through Proverbs and pulled out all of the verses that dealt with parenting in some fashion or another.

Look through this list... How much better off would we all be if this became the guiding influence in how we raised our children?

Pastor Noel

--------------------------

Proverbs on Parenting

Parents Have A Responsibility to Correct their Children

… Proverbs 1:8–9 8 My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. 9 What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck.

… Proverbs 13:1 A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction.

… Proverbs 13:24 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

… Proverbs 15:5 Only a fool despises a parent’s discipline; whoever learns from correction is wise.

… Proverbs 19:18 Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives.

… Proverbs 22:15 A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away.

… Proverbs 23:13–14 13 Don’t fail to discipline your children. They won’t die if you spank them. 14 Physical discipline may well save them from death.

… Proverbs 29:15 To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.

… Proverbs 29:17 Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad.

Parents Have A Responsibility to Live a Wise Life as an Example

… Proverbs 5:1–2 1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel. 2 Then you will show discernment, and your lips will express what you’ve learned.

… Proverbs 11:21 Evil people will surely be punished, but the children of the godly will go free.

Parents Have A Responsibility to Teach their Children

… Proverbs 6:20–22 20 My son, obey your father’s commands, and don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. 21 Keep their words always in your heart. Tie them around your neck. 22 When you walk, their counsel will lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up, they will advise you.

… Proverbs 22:6 Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.

… Proverbs 31:1 The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him.

Proverbs for the Children

… Proverbs 5:1–2 1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel. 2 Then you will show discernment, and your lips will express what you’ve learned.

… Proverbs 8:32–33 32 “And so, my children, listen to me, for all who follow my ways are joyful. 33 Listen to my instruction and be wise. Don’t ignore it.

… Proverbs 13:1 A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction.

… Proverbs 15:5 Only a fool despises a parent’s discipline; whoever learns from correction is wise.

… Proverbs 19:26 Children who mistreat their father or chase away their mother are an embarrassment and a public disgrace.

… Proverbs 23:22 Listen to your father, who gave you life, and don’t despise your mother when she is old.

… Proverbs 23:24 The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise.

… Proverbs 23:25 So give your father and mother joy! May she who gave you birth be happy.

… Proverbs 28:24 Anyone who steals from his father and mother and says, “What’s wrong with that?” is no better than a murderer.

… Proverbs 30:17 The eye that mocks a father and despises a mother’s instructions will be plucked out by ravens of the valley and eaten by vultures.

Miscellaneous

… Proverbs 10:1 The proverbs of Solomon: A wise child brings joy to a father; a foolish child brings grief to a mother.

… Proverbs 13:22 Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, but the sinner’s wealth passes to the godly.

… Proverbs 15:20 Sensible children bring joy to their father; foolish children despise their mother.

... Proverbs 17:6 Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children.

… Proverbs 17:21 It is painful to be the parent of a fool; there is no joy for the father of a rebel.

… Proverbs 17:25 Foolish children bring grief to their father and bitterness to the one who gave them birth.

… Proverbs 19:13 A foolish child is a calamity to a father; a quarrelsome wife is as annoying as constant dripping.

… Proverbs 30:11 Some people curse their father and do not thank their mother.

… Proverbs 31:28 Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her:

A Great Day at First Baptist Church!

2011-01-31T15:11:00.003-05:00

What a great day we had Sunday... packed house, great singing, and the message wasn't too long :)

But at the end of the service we were able to make an announcement that I want to share here in case you missed it.

About 10 1/2 months ago, we asked our church to take a step of faith and give sacrificially above their regular giving toward the rebuilding and renovating of our preschool ministry facilities.

We initially estimated that the church could stretch and give $95,000 extra in the first year and another $95,000 extra in the second year. But we decided to just see what would happen if we refused to borrow any money and challenged the church to give it all in one year... a total of $190,000.

Well when the pledges came in last March we were overwhelmed with the total: $181,000. And while that was still short of the funds needed for the project, we were excited. Well, as of last week, the offerings toward the pledge totaled: $191,733.40!

The original goal of $190,000 was reached and surpassed one and a half months early!

As the project bids have come in, however, the actual cost of the project has risen to $220,000. But in addition to the church meeting the original goal, a very generous family has given an extra $30,000 which takes us even beyond the new cost total for the project.

What does this mean? We can begin now to build what we need and incur no debt!

Thank you for your sacrificial giving. Thank you for your faithfulness. And thank the Lord for his bountiful provisions!

I look forward to seeing all of the young families we are able to reach through this new facility you have given toward.

Pastor Noel

Proverbs on Money, II

2011-01-21T13:24:00.003-05:00

Here is a much better presentation of the same verses in "Proverbs on Money, Part I".

Pastor Noel

Wealth & Taking Advice
… Proverbs 13:18 If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored.

Real Wealth
… Proverbs 15:16 Better to have little, with fear for the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.
… Proverbs 19:14 Fathers can give their sons an inheritance of houses and wealth, but only the Lord can give an understanding wife.
… Proverbs 23:4–5 4 Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. 5 In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.
… Proverbs 28:6 Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and rich.
… Proverbs 30:8–9 8 First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. 9 For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God’s holy name.

Contentment
… Proverbs 30:8–9 8 First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. 9 For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God’s holy name.
… Ecclesiastes 5:10 Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!

Trusting in Money
… Proverbs 11:28 Trust in your money and down you go! But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.

Quick Wealth / Greediness
… Proverbs 13:11 Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.
… Proverbs 20:21 An inheritance obtained too early in life is not a blessing in the end.
… Proverbs 21:5 Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.
… Proverbs 23:4–5 4 Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. 5 In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.
… Proverbs 28:22 Greedy people try to get rich quick but don’t realize they’re headed for poverty.

Laziness
… Proverbs 6:10–11 10 A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— 11 then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.
… Proverbs 10:4 Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich.
… Proverbs 13:4 Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.
… Proverbs 14:23 Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty!
… Proverbs 20:13 If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat!
… Proverbs 21:5 Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.
… Proverbs 30:24–25 24 There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise: 25 Ants—they aren’t strong, but they store up food all summer.

Spending Less Than You Make
… Proverbs 21:20 The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get.

Borrowing
… Proverbs 22:7 Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.

Budgeting
… Proverbs 27:23 Know the state of your flocks, and put your heart into caring for your herds,
… Proverbs 21:20 The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get.
… Proverbs 30:24–25 24 There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise: 25 Ants—they aren’t strong, but they store up food all summer.

Co-Signing Debt
… Proverbs 6:1–5 1 My child, if you have put up security for a friend’s debt or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger— 2 if you have trapped yourself by your agreement and are caught by what you said— 3 follow my advice and save yourself, for you have placed yourself at your friend’s mercy. Now swallow your pride; go and beg to have your name erased. 4 Don’t put it off; do it now! Don’t rest until you do. 5 Save yourself like a gazelle escaping from a hunter, like a bird fleeing from a net.
… Proverbs 11:15 There’s danger in putting up security for a stranger’s debt; it’s safer not to guarantee another person’s debt.
… Proverbs 17:18 It’s poor judgment to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for a friend.
… Proverbs 22:26 Don’t agree to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for someone else.

Giving to the Work of the Lord
… Proverbs 3:9–10 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. 10 Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.

Giving to the Needy
… Proverbs 11:24 Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.
… Proverbs 11:25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
… Proverbs 19:17 If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord— and he will repay you!
… Proverbs 21:13 Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor will be ignored in their own time of need.
… Proverbs 28:27 Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed.

Misc
… Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.
… Proverbs 11:4 Riches won’t help on the day of judgment, but right living can save you from death.
… Proverbs 13:7 Some who are poor pretend to be rich; others who are rich pretend to be poor.
… Proverbs 13:8 The rich can pay a ransom for their lives, but the poor won’t even get threatened.
… Proverbs 13:22 Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, but the sinner’s wealth passes to the godly.
… Proverbs 19:1 Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and a fool.
… Proverbs 19:4 Wealth makes many “friends”; poverty drives them all away.
… Proverbs 22:16 A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty.
… Proverbs 28:8 Income from charging high interest rates will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor.

Proverbs on Money

2011-01-21T12:10:00.002-05:00

In preparation for my Connect Group this week (we are studying the book of Proverbs), I went through Proverbs and pulled out all of the verses that dealt with money in some fashion or another.

Look through this list... How much better off would we all be if this became the guiding influence in how we managed our money?

Pastor Noel

Proverbs 3:9–10	9 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. 10 Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.
Proverbs 6:1–5	1 My child, if you have put up security for a friend’s debt or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger— 2 if you have trapped yourself by your agreement and are caught by what you said— 3 follow my advice and save yourself, for you have placed yourself at your friend’s mercy. Now swallow your pride; go and beg to have your name erased. 4 Don’t put it off; do it now! Don’t rest until you do. 5 Save yourself like a gazelle escaping from a hunter, like a bird fleeing from a net.
Proverbs 6:10–11	10 A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— 11 then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.
Proverbs 10:4	Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich.
Proverbs 10:22	The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.
Proverbs 11:4	Riches won’t help on the day of judgment, but right living can save you from death.
Proverbs 11:15	There’s danger in putting up security for a stranger’s debt; it’s safer not to guarantee another person’s debt.
Proverbs 11:24	Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.
Proverbs 11:25	The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:28	Trust in your money and down you go! But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.
Proverbs 13:4	Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.
Proverbs 13:7	Some who are poor pretend to be rich; others who are rich pretend to be poor.
Proverbs 13:8	The rich can pay a ransom for their lives, but the poor won’t even get threatened.
Proverbs 13:11	Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.
Proverbs 13:18	If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored.
Proverbs 13:22	Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, but the sinner’s wealth passes to the godly.
Proverbs 14:23	Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty!
Proverbs 15:16	Better to have little, with fear for the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.
Proverbs 17:18	It’s poor judgment to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for a friend.
Proverbs 19:1	Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and a fool.
Proverbs 19:4	Wealth makes many “friends”; poverty drives them all away.
Proverbs 19:14	Fathers can give their sons an inheritance of houses and wealth, but only the Lord can give an understanding wife.
Proverbs 19:17	If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord— and he will repay you!
Proverbs 20:13	If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat!
Proverbs 20:21	An inheritance obtained too early in life is not a blessing in the end.
Proverbs 21:5	Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.
Proverbs 21:13	Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor will be ignored in their own time of need.
Proverbs 21:20	The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get.
Proverbs 22:7	Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.
Proverbs 22:16	A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty.
Proverbs 22:26	Don’t agree to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for someone else.
Proverbs 23:4–5	4 Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. 5 In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.
Proverbs 27:23	Know the state of your flocks, and put your heart into caring for your herds,
Proverbs 28:6	Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and rich.
Proverbs 28:8	Income from charging high interest rates will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor.
Proverbs 28:22	Greedy people try to get rich quick but don’t realize they’re headed for poverty.
Proverbs 28:27	Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed.
Proverbs 30:8–9	8 First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. 9 For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God’s holy name.
Proverbs 30:24–25	24 There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise: 25 Ants—they aren’t strong, but they store up food all summer.
Ecclesiastes 5:10	Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!

Essential 100 Bible Challenge

2011-01-07T14:45:00.003-05:00

We are throwing the Bible reading assignments up each day on the Event Facebook Page.

I would also suggest going to YouVersion to follow along with the plan.

It has been great to hear from so many people who are joining us for this. We've had people sign up at the church, via email, and on the Facebook page. We've hard stories of families doing this together... Offices doing this together and even churches that have decided to join us. Because of your faithfulness to invite your friends, we have literally hundreds and hundreds committed to reading their Bibles daily for these 100 days!

Thanks for being a part of this!

Pastor Noel

E100 For Wednesday, January 5

2011-01-04T22:13:00.001-05:00

OK... The assignment for tomorrow (1.5) is Genesis 1-2. I would love to see us get a discussion going on the Facebook page through the day tomorrow. So here are three questions I want to throw out for you to think about as you read and maybe comment on...

1. What does it mean that we are made in God's Image? How should that affect how we live?

2. What does it mean that God created men and women to compliment one another? In what ways is your life blessed because of this complimentary creation? Why is it good that men and women have different approaches, temperaments, strengths?

3. What things do these two chapter remind us that we should thank the Lord for?

Pastor Noel

Essential 100 Bible Challenge Begins In 24 Hours!

2011-01-04T08:43:00.006-05:00

We all begin tomorrow morning. Here are some questions to answer to know if you are ready...

Do you have a list of verses to read each day? We will post them on the Facebook Event Page each night for the next day, but you can also email us at e100@fbcho.com for the entire verse list or stop by the church for paper copies and bookmarks we've made with all... of the assignments listed.

Have you invited all of your friends and family? What better way to encourage those around you in their walk with the Lord!

Do you have an easy to read Bible? I, pastor Noel, and going to do my reading from an NLT Bible. Any translation will work as long as you have one you can easily understand.

Do you want the accompanying devotional book? It isn't necessary but might help you better understand what you are reading. We have them here at the church if you can come by. Read the blog post below for more info about the books.

Pastor Noel

Essential 100 Bible Challenge

2011-01-01T21:27:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow (1.2.2011), we will introduce our church to the Essential 100 Day Challenge. If you haven't heard the message, you can do so online. We will post it to our website and to iTunes on Monday. We will post a link to it here when available.

Here is the FAQ that will help you get started...

Essential 100 Day Challenge FAQ

When will the Essential 100 Day Challenge Begin?

Wednesday (1.5.2011) -- Why Wednesday? We want you to have a couple days to invite your friends to join you in this life changing challenge.

How to Be A Part of the Essential 100 Day Challenge?

· Complete an E100 Commitment Card or if you are reading this online, send us a quick email with your name and address to e100@fbcho.com.

· Make sure you have an E100 Scripture List. Lists are available at church or by requesting one at the email address: e100@fbcho.cm.

How can I interact with others who are doing the E100 Challenge?

· Visit our Facebook Event Page to share your insights and be encouraged by others who have joined you in this challenge. You can reach the link from the church website (www.FirstBaptistHeath.com) or the pastor's blog (PastorDear.blogspot.com).

Can I do this online or with my mobile device?

· Yes. Go to the YouVersion Website or access your YouVersion App and search for the "Essential 100" reading plan.

How can I encourage others to be a part of this?

· Invite your Facebook friends by going to the Event Page and clicking 'Invite'.

· Call friends and family and ask them if they would do this with you for the next 100 days.

Is there a resource to help me understand what I am reading?

· Yes. The book is titled, "The Essential Bible Guide: 100 Readings Through The World's Most Important Book" by Whitney Kuniholm. This book is not required, but it does give helpful insights into each day's reading.

· The book is available at the church for $10.00 (cash, check, credit card).

· The book is also available at Amazon ($10.96).

· The book is also available on the Kindle ($9.29) and Nook ($9.99) electronic platforms.

Pastor Noel

One Hundred Day Bible Reading Challenge

2010-12-29T08:26:00.005-05:00

I am very excited about something we will be sharing with everyone this Sunday. Watch this space for more information. The challenge officially begins on Wednesday, January 5.

You can visit our Facebook Event page here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=172475932791635.

Pastor Noel

Jesus is God!

2010-12-12T07:51:00.004-05:00

Below is some supporting material for my message preached on December 12. I hope this helps...

...................................

Jesus is God

A. Jesus has the attributes of deity.

1. He is eternal.

-John 1:1‑3, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

-Micah 5:2, But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.

-Isaiah 9:6, For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

-Hebrews 13:8, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

2. He is omnipresent.

-John 3:13, No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

-Matthew 18:20, For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.

-Matthew 28:20, Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

3. He is omniscient.

-John 16:30, Now we are sure that You know all things, and have no need that anyone should question You. By this we believe that You came forth from God.

-John 21:17, He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love Me?" And he said to Him, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus said to him, "Feed My sheep.

-Colossians 2:3, In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

-John 4:28‑29, The woman then left her waterpot, went her way into the city, and said to the men, "Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did. Could this be the Christ?"

-Luke 6:8, But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man who had the withered hand, "Arise and stand here." And he arose and stood.

-It is true that Jesus said that he didn’t know the time of his return and he did ‘marvel’ at the people’s unbelief, and he went to the fig tree expecting figs, but these have explanations...

4. He is omnipotent.

-John 5:19, Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner.

-Isaiah 9:6, For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

-Revelation 1:8, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.

-Hebrews 1:3, Who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.

-John 5:36, But I have a greater witness than John's; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish‑‑ the very works that I do‑‑ bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me.

5. He is immutable.

-Hebrews 1:12, Like a cloak You will fold them up, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not fail.

-Hebrews 13:8, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

B. Jesus has the offices of deity.

1. He is the Creator.

-John 1:3, All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

-Colossians 1:16, For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.

-Hebrews 1:10, And: "You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands.

2. He is the Sustainer.

-Colossians 1:17, And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.

-Colossians 1:17, He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. (NIV)

C. Jesus has the authority of deity.

1. He forgave sins.

-Matthew 9:2, 6, Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you. But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins"‑‑ then He said to the paralytic, "Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house."

2. He will raise the dead in the resurrection.

-John 5:28‑29, Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth‑‑ those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.

3. He will execute judgment.

-Romans 14:10. But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

-2 Corinthians 5:10, For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

D. Jesus claimed to be Yahweh (Jehovah)

-Other words for titles can be used in varying ways.

-Adonai (Lord) can sometimes be used of man.

-Genesis 18:12, Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, "After I have grown old, shall I have pleasure, my lord (adonai) being old also?"

-Elohim (god) can sometimes be used of false gods.

-Deuteronomy 6:14, You shall not go after other gods (elohim), the gods of the peoples who are all around you.

-YHWH only refers to the one true God.

-Exodus 3:14, And God said to Moses, "I AM (YHWH) WHO I AM (YHWH)." And He said, "Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, 'I AM (YHWH) has sent me to you.'"

-Isaiah 44:6, Thus says the LORD (YHWH), the King of Israel, and his Redeemer, the LORD (YHWH) of hosts: 'I am the First and I am the Last; besides Me there is no God.

-John 8:58‑59, Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM." Then they took up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

E. Jesus claimed to be equal with God.

-Mark 2:5‑12, When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven you." And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, "Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?" But immediately, when Jesus perceived in His spirit that they reasoned thus within themselves, He said to them, "Why do you reason about these things in your hearts? "Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Arise, take up your bed and walk'? "But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins"‑‑ He said to the paralytic, "I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go your way to your house." Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all, so that all were amazed and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!"

-John 5:21, For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will.

F. Jesus claimed to be Messiah-God.

-When Isaiah talked about the coming Messiah, he called Him, ‘Mighty God.’

-Mark 14:61‑64, But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, "Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" And Jesus said, "I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven." Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "What further need do we have of witnesses? "You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?" And they all condemned Him to be worthy of death.

Better Living Through The Book of Proverbs

2010-12-08T09:39:00.002-05:00

We are quickly approaching time for sign-ups for the next Connect Group Semester. I am really looking forward to this next semester. I have decided to lead a Sunday, 9:30 co-ed group instead of my usual weekday group for men. All total we believe we will have six young co-ed groups meeting in the Sunday, 9:30 slot this go around.

I just put together the description piece for my Connect Group for this next semester. (Catalogs are being printed next week.) Take a look...

.........................

Better Living Through The Book of Proverbs

In this group, we will study the principles taught by the book of Proverbs and learn how those principles can impact and improve our daily lives. So many practical issues are dealt with in Proverbs:

* How To Be a Better Wife
* How To Raise Godly Children
* How To Lower the Stress of Finances
* How To Manage Time and Priorities
* How To Deal with Bad Relationships
* How To Refrain from Sexual Sin
* How To Have Lasting Integrity
* How To Have a Happier Home
* How To Be a Leader
* How To Make Wise Decisions
* How To Be a Better Husband & Dad
* How To Overcome Anger
* How To Always Have Enough Money
* How To Live Without Regret
* And on and on...

We will begin our study by learning about the background and the structure of the book of Proverbs so that we will be well equipped to mine its riches. Then we will begin to study the book for practical application. We will use both teaching and discussion to sort out the meanings because as the book of Proverbs says, "Without counsel, plans go awry, but in the multitude of counselors they are established and there you will find safety." (Proverbs 15:22, Proverbs 11:14)

As our book for this group, we will use the Crossway Classic Commentary on Proverbs by Charles Bridges.

This group will be geared to the age range of those with children still in the home.

Pastor Noel

Jesus Thank You

2010-11-23T09:05:00.004-05:00

This past Sunday we sang one of my very favorite songs, "Jesus, Thank You". Each line in this song refers to a biblical picture of Salvation. As you sing through the song, it serves as a reminder of all of those great scriptural lessons about the cross, salvation, and God's grace and mercy.

I'm thinking about preaching a message soon, where I take each of Bible passages the song references and show how that reference increases our understanding of the amazing grace of God.

Here are the lyrics...

The mystery of the cross I cannot comprehend
The agonies of Calvary
You the perfect Holy One, crushed Your Son
Who drank the bitter cup reserved for me

Your blood has washed away my sin
Jesus, thank You
The Father’s wrath completely satisfied
Jesus, thank You
Once Your enemy, now seated at Your table
Jesus, thank You

By Your perfect sacrifice I’ve been brought near
Your enemy You’ve made Your friend
Pouring out the riches of Your glorious grace
Your mercy and Your kindness know no end

Lover of my soul
I want to live for You

Pastor Noel

Working With The Schools

2010-11-18T09:24:00.002-05:00

One of the things you will be hearing much about in the months to come is how we are committed to trying to be a blessing to the three public elementary schools within one mile of our church. We are looking for ways to encourage the schools, the teachers and administrators, the children and their parents. There are going to be many ways you can partner with the church to help with this outreach in the days to come. More to come...

One thing we were able to be a part of was hosting the Veterans Day celebration done by Cherry Valley Elementary last week. Here is a letter I received from one of their teachers...

Hi Pastor Dear!

I just had to say THANK YOU!!!!! The bagged lunches and "thank you" cards just "made the day" for all the teachers at school!!! They are just all walking around in AWE! What a precious testimony! I have been walking around the school saying, "That is MY church!" :) I am so proud and thankful to be a member of such a kind and thoughtful church!

Thank you and everyone else involved!!!

In Him, Susan Brown

.........................

Cherry Valley contacted us this week to say they would like to do a food drive to help our food pantry feed families going through difficulties. Wow. What a great gesture.

Last week, Garfield Elementary school donated a truck full of food for our food pantry that came from the hard work of the students and parents there. We are so thankful for these schools and we look forward to partnering with them in any way we can.

Pastor Noel

Good Few Days...

2010-11-14T21:55:00.002-05:00

We have had a good few days at the church. Let me give you some highlights...

- We had about 700 kids, parents, and veterans connected to Cherry Valley Elementary School at our church for a program on Friday. It was great to be a small partner in this event. We love our local schools.

- A good morning today. Praise team and choir did a great job. We had one public profession of faith during the service, a long time member that has never had assurance of her faith. Crowd was good with several visitors. Last week we had our largest crowd since Easter. I haven't seen numbers yet, but today could have been as good or better.

- This is out of order, but we had four people officially join the church this past Wednesday in our New Member's class.

- Thursday morning we had a bunch of men show up early to just pray for revival. What an encouragement that was.

- Tonight we had a young mom make a public profession of faith just before the service began! Pastor Wally started a new series of messages from the life of Elijah tonight.

- Garfield Elementary School PTO gave our food pantry a ton of food to help us meet needs in our community. We are incredibly thankful for this gift and for the kids and families who worked hard to provide it.

I am so thankful for what the Lord is doing in and through our church!

Pastor Noel

Ten Reasons Why Christians Should Vote

2010-11-01T17:19:00.004-04:00

I saw this on Nelson Searcy's blog... I though I would share it with you.

Ten Reasons Why Christians Should Vote

Voting publicly recognizes that we submit to the authority of the political system in our nation as established by God. Romans 13:1-7
Voting recognizes the equality of all people and their right to speak and be heard. Deuteronomy 10:17-19
Voting is one way that we can obey God’s command to seek the good of those around us and our nation as a whole. Jeremiah 29:7
Voting shows that we care deeply about who our leaders are as we are urged to offer prayer and intercession on their behalf. 1 Timothy 2:1,2
Voting is a simple yet significant way we can do something about politics in our nation. ‘All that is required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing’, Edmund Burke. Psalms 34:14
Voting makes a difference the way a grain of salt makes a difference, and that is how we are to influence our society for good. Matthew 5:13
Voting is a privilege not to be taken for granted. Those of us who reap the benefits of living in a democracy should play a part in upholding democracy.
Not voting is a form of voting, as it will influence the outcome. We need to take responsibility for our actions, as well as our lack of actions. Luke 10:25-37
Voting is part of our stewardship to use all the resources we have been given in ways that honor God; to waste a vote is to squander a gift.
Voting is Biblical. The Bible contains numerous references to “casting lots.” (ex. Proverbs 16:33) Acts 14:23 shows that the early Christians elected elders by voting.

Pastor Noel

On My Heart...

2010-10-06T06:40:00.001-04:00

Quick note to our church family (and other kind readers) of what is on my heart this morning...

... Recently read an old book titled "How To Pray" by a R.A. Torrey. It has been a life changing book! I read a lot of books and I rarely say that, but this small book is worth reading. Currently all of our deacons and council are reading the book and they are saying the same thing about it. Ask Bill Marriott or Henry Zigan or Martin Bauer what they think about the book. I imagine any deacon will give you a strong recommendation to read it.

... I'm excited about our new Church Council. We had our first leadership meeting this past Sunday night. I look forward to how we can work together to serve the Lord and the church. Pray for these eight men: Billy Andrews, Jeff Salyer, Ray Wagner, Andrew Roth, Henry Zigan, Bo Bogardus, Sean Hall, Michael George.

I've got to take a break. More to come...

Pastor Noel

Upcoming PM Series

2010-09-15T10:35:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow, tomorrow...

2010-07-17T09:35:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow I will begin a new series of messages I have titled, "Everyone Lives Forever, Somewhere". I think that sometimes we get in the middle of the busyness and stress of life and forget why we are still here, what our purpose is as believers and as a church.

My prayer is that in the next four weeks we can recapture a real sense of urgency for sharing the good news of God's love and forgiveness with those who haven't yet experienced it. I pray that we while see real change in our lives and our church in these next few weeks.

On another note... Our Ukraine mission team will land back in Columbus around 5:30 pm on Monday. Pray for their last Sunday in country. All the reports we have heard are that it has been a great trip.

Pastor Noel

Lord's Supper

2010-07-08T15:19:00.000-04:00

This Sunday morning we will share in the taking of the Lord's Supper in our main worship service. Ordinarily we do this in the evening, so this will be a special event.

I've been thinking about what I want to say for a while now. As I have studied the first Lord's Supper in Scripture, I believe the Lord has shown me a great insight into how to communicate the importance and value of this special celebration.

We will be focusing on the account of the events just preceding the Lord's Supper in John 13. I encourage you to prepare by reading the chapter and asking the Lord to prepare your heart. It will be a good day of worship!

Pastor Noel

New Ministry Staff

2010-06-30T16:22:00.001-04:00

Dear FBC Heath Family,

As I shared with you back in January, we are making a concerted effort to increase our outreach to young families by improving and expanding our preschool, children, and youth ministries.

The first step in that was to begin the process of renovating our preschool facilities. The cost of that project will be around $190,000, and it is our commitment to pay cash for this expense. So this past March we began to collect the needed funds. As of today, four months later, through your generosity and sacrifice, you have given $140,722.45! Construction will begin as soon as we have the needed funds in that account.

This Sunday we will take another step in this effort to reach more young families. We will ask the church to create two new ministry staff positions. Both of them will be under the umbrella title of “Family Ministry Directors”. We have asked Phil and Christine Lintz to serve in these positions once they are approved.

Phil will be working along side Pastor Troy in the youth ministry. We will eventually see that ministry split into a junior high and a senior high ministry. It is our desire to see our youth ministry grow to reach more and more young people. One of the steps we believe is needed for this is to free up Troy’s time to focus on the Senior High youth and then to have Phil focus on reaching and discipling the younger ones.

It is often difficult to preach a message to teens when you have 12-year-olds and 18-year-olds in the same group. Many of the issues an eighteen year old in our culture will face are different from those the twelve year old encounters.

Troy and I have spent much time talking and praying about this, and we believe this will be a valuable step toward increasing the effectiveness of our youth ministry.

Christine will work with Pastor Wally in the preschool and children’s ministry. With the new preschool facility, our new security procedures, and our expanding children’s ministries, we simply need more hands on deck. Christine has become a great assistant to Pastor Wally and an effective leader alongside many others in our children’s ministry in the last year. Pastor Wally and I are looking forward to seeing how an expanded role for Christine will help us reach more families.

In order to facilitate these new positions and also to increase Pastor Troy’s salary to better reflect his responsibilities, we will need to make some financial adjustments. I believe at this time, with the financial climate of our nation and state, we do not need to increase our budget requirements. So I have asked Scott, our administrator, to identify sufficient funds that we can move from one area of the budget to another to take care of this need. He has put together a recommendation that will accommodate the change without negatively impacting any of our ministries. After the church approves this ministry step, we will ask the finance team to officially make those changes.

If you have any questions, please call or email me or Pastor Wally at the church. Or you can contact any of our church council members. We will try to answer all your questions during the week. Sunday we will vote without discussion in our morning worship service.

I am thankful for how the Lord has provided our church with such excellent leaders… both those I get to work with on staff and those godly, faithful laypeople in our church.

In Christ,

Pastor Noel

Fourth of July Message

2010-06-30T11:16:00.001-04:00

I am very excited about what I believe the Lord has shown me in His Word to share with you on Sunday morning!

In the Scripture story of a man by the funny name of Hezekiah we see that he makes a grave mistake near the end of his life that tarnished his legacy and hurt his nation. I believe it is that same error that we are facing as a nation, and perhaps even as a church.

Sunday we will focus on Isaiah 39 and the passages that give us background to the story.

My prayer is that the Lord will shake us from our complacency and our selfishness as a nation, as a church, as fathers and mothers, and as the children of God!

I hope you will make plans to join us, even though it is a holiday weekend.

Pastor Noel

Graduation and Recitals

2010-06-12T12:34:00.001-04:00

This has been a busy week, not a good week to have a cold. Today there is a homeschool recital and then a graduation service to follow. Tonight is dance recital number two. Wednesday's recital lasted until nearly 11:00 p.m.! But the nine minutes my girls were dancing were really exciting. During the other three hours and twenty one minutes I read the new Craig Groeschel book, The Christian Atheist. Pretty good book.

Two big events coming up at the church...

Youth leave for youth camp this Sunday!

VBS begins the following week (6/26)!

Be in prayer for these events.

By the way, a lady in our church, Tonya Carlisle, is expecting to give birth to her baby today. She is only at 34 weeks, so we are all in prayer for mom and baby.

Pastor Noel

Ready for Sunday!

2010-06-05T08:21:00.000-04:00

I'm sitting at an airport in birmingham AL this morning waiting to catch a flight home. I flew down yesterday to spend some time with my mom who is undergoing treatment for cancer. We had a good day yesterday... My sister and her boys from Atlanta were in too so it was good to spend time with them.

It has been a very busy week. Due to the holiday on Monday everything has been compressed, but tomorrow is the beginning of a new week.

I am really looking forward to worship tomorrow. I will be preaching the last message in our series on Joseph in Genesis. We will be focused on the one thing you see throughout Joseph's life that allowed him to handle everything that came his way.

..............

Sometimes people ask me what I am especially praying for right now. Well, let me share...

... Of course I am praying much for my mother as she goes throughout her treatments.

... I am praying for Edward Rafferty who lost his mother this week.

... I am praying for a very serious community issue that impacts a number of people in our church and also impacts the whole faith family in our area. Just pray that the Lord's will be done.

... I am praying for our missions work in Kenya. I had a good meeting with the Kenya team this week. I am enthused for this ministry right now.

... I am praying for youth camp and vacation Bible school, both of which are just around the corner.

Well, it's time to line up to get on the plane...

Pastor Noel

Memorial Weekend Wrap Up

2010-05-31T21:01:00.001-04:00

Well as I'm preparing my Connect Group Bible study for tomorrow morning and thinking back through the weekend, I am so thankful for the last three days. I got to spend some good quality time with my girls; I was able to ride my bike with some good weather, finally; we had a great day of worship; I got to go out on a date with my wonderful wife; and I got to spend some time with some good friends...

This upcoming week will be extra busy because I'm starting one day behind, but it should be a good week.

Tomorrow morning starts off with my Men's Connect Group, then a quick meeting with the bank (they are lowering my interest rate on my mortgage!!!), then staff meeting, then hopefully I can focus on preparing for upcoming messages for a few hours.

I hope you had a good weekend and I pray that this next week is a great week for both you and me...

Pastor Noel

A Blessing For My Girls

2010-05-30T11:00:00.001-04:00

In the morning message today, I shared how I prayed and asked the Lord to show me what I should pray for my daughters. I wrote down what I felt like the Lord wanted me to pray and I shared it with them by praying this prayer over them. For more info, you can listen to the message when it is posted on our church website next week. If it would help you to pray about what you should specifically pray for your kids or grand kids, you can take a look at the prayers I prayed.

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Hannah...

… Lord, I thank you for Hannah, my first daughter. Donna and I prayed and asked you for her and she is one of the best answers to prayer we have ever received from you. You have shown us your kindness through Hannah and we will always praise you for that.

… Lord in heaven, you have given Hannah such a sensitive spirit. That sensitivity shields her from some temptations. I pray that never changes. You have given her an exceptional intelligence. I pray she always uses that to serve you and your kingdom. You have given her remarkable self-discipline, which can help her accomplish much in life if she doesn’t lose it through distraction. So I pray that you keep her focused on the right priorities and never let the world steal the value of this special gift from you.

… Lord, thank you for the salvation that you have given to her. My greatest desire for my girls is that they would become your girls… that they would be children of God. Thank you for convicting Hannah’s heart and giving her the gift of faith so that she could call on you. Thank you for forgiving her sins and securing her eternal life through the sacrifice of Christ.

… Lord, I ask that you increase Hannah’s faith. I know she struggles with fear and worry at times. I pray that you remind her of your faithfulness and trustworthiness. You have been so good and so faithful to our family through the years. I cannot count your blessings. Please let the memory of that faithfulness always be at the forefront of Hannah’s thoughts and let it guard her mind with the peace that passes understanding.

… Lord, I pray that you give Hannah a strong desire to study and know your Word. I believe you have specifically gifted her to excel in this. I ask that you will give her a special insight into what she reads. I pray the Holy Spirit will be her teacher. I pray that she will have the commitment to your Word as an eleven year old that will allow her to be used in an unusual way to teach your Word as a teen and as an adult. I pray that Donna and I will do the things we should do to foster this special gift. I pray that we will be a catalyst in what you want to do in her life and not a hindrance or a distraction.

… Lord, I ask even now that you bless Hannah’s future family. Please protect her innocence and purity. Fix in her mind the value of being a godly wife and a godly mom. Don’t let the world teach her that those are somehow less important roles than the roles the world may offer. I pray for her future husband. I pray that you protect his innocence and his purity. I pray that his parents are leading him to a close walk with you.

… Father, I give you my daughter, Hannah. She belongs to you. Use me to guide her, to teach her, to protect her. But Lord, don’t let me take her back. My desire is that she always be set apart for your honor.

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Emily...

… Lord, thank you for Emily, my baby daughter. You gave her to me and Donna at a time in life when so many good things were happening. She was the best of those things. Your undeserved goodness to us is amazing. Praise you for your kindness.

… Lord, thank you for the salvation that you have given to her. My greatest desire for my girls is that they would become your girls… that they would be children of God. Thank you for convicting Emily’s heart and giving her the gift of faith so that she could call on you. Thank you for forgiving her sins and securing her eternal life through the sacrifice of Christ.

… Lord, there is no doubt that Emily is fearfully and wonderfully made. I thank you for her winsome personality and her caring, soft heart. I believe you have gifted her with an unusual ability to encourage people and to bring joy into their lives. I pray that you will protect that. I ask that this special giftedness become a real ministry that changes lives and I pray that this ministry begins very early in her life. Please give Donna and I the direction we need to foster this ministry and to put her in the best situations to help her be a blessing to others.

… Lord, thank you also for giving Emily such a quick, sharp mind, and a love for reading, especially an early passion for reading your Word. I pray that her love for reading the Bible will be a transforming thing in her life. I pray she will be daily washed in your Word in such a way that her purity will be guarded, her wisdom will increase, and her joy will be contagious.

… Lord I ask that you give Emily greater focus. I know that she struggles with distractions, but with your help she can overcome this. I believe you have such important things for Emily to do in this life. I pray that she doesn’t miss any of them because of distraction.

… I pray, Lord, that you will make Emily into a prayer warrior. I pray that she will draw near to you in a special way and that you will draw near to her in a special way. I ask that you will increase her faith and expand her understanding such that prayer becomes one of the most important things in her life. I ask that this devotion to prayer becomes a source of help and strength not only for her but for our church and our community. I ask that you make her a leader in this ministry throughout her life. I pray that you will be honored in an uncommon way because of her heart for prayer to you.

… Lord, I ask even now that you bless Emily’s future family. Please protect her innocence and purity. Fix in her mind the value of being a godly wife and a godly mom. Don’t let the world teach her that those are somehow less important roles than the roles the world may offer. I pray for her future husband. I pray that you protect his innocence and his purity. I pray that his parents are leading him to a close walk with you.

… Father, I give you my daughter, Emily. She belongs to you. Use me to guide her, to teach her, to protect her. But Lord, don’t let me take her back. My desire is that she always be set apart for your honor.

Pastor Noel

Wrap Up for the Week

2010-05-29T09:25:00.002-04:00

It's been a pretty good week. I began the week praying that the Lord would help me be very productive this week. He has done so. Every item on this week's to-do list has been marked off. (That never happens.) Sermon is ready to go. I was able to make a ton of visits and pastoral phone calls. I was able to do every pending counseling request...

Yesterday was a very good day. I drove over to the Stowe Center in Columbus, a church and community mission our church helps sponsor. There I watched eleven of our church kids serve over 100 people in the soup kitchen. They did an excellent job. It is amazing to see how mature these kids can be when they are engaged in service. All the kids seemed anxious to come back for their assigned serving day in June.

I hope to have a lazy day today. This morning, I need to put together a little bit of lawn furniture Donna wanted, and then I'm going to spend a few hours on my bike. Maybe a family picnic this evening.

I hope to see you tomorrow. We are going to have a great day of worship.

Pastor Noel

A Good Finish

2010-05-27T06:11:00.001-04:00

A couple posts ago I said that Tuesday was a day with a good start and a good finish. Let me tell you about the finish.

One of our young church members, Matt Parker, who owns a consulting business based in Columbus asked me to attend an open house for some new offices he opened. It was an honor to attend.

At the open house were a bunch of people I didn't know, political leaders and consultants from around the state and even some who had flown in from around the country. Some of these were Matt's business peers, some were clients, some were potential clients.

During the program part of the evening, Matt shared how the business started and a little of their history and services. Then Matt got to the part about his faith in Jesus Christ. I stood there with a heart filled with pride, the good kind, as this young business man boldly talked about his relationship with Christ and then went on to honor the Lord in very specific words.

Unfortunately, few men today would have the courage to so boldly profess their faith before their business peers and clients. I am thankful to the Lord that we have some of those men, women, and young people in our church family.

It should thrill us all when our Lord is honored!

Pastor Noel

How To Be A Blessing To Your Kids

2010-05-26T11:55:00.001-04:00

I just finished the first draft of my Sunday message. It has been a convicting study process. Since we are focusing on the life of Joseph in our Sunday messages these last few weeks I have spent time this week learning how Joseph and his father Jacob sought to be a blessing to Manasseh and Ephraim (Joseph's sons).

I realize that sometimes we just take the growth, maturity, and spiritual development of our kids or grandkids for granted. Joseph and Jacob were much more intentional. I have been convicted as I have outlined the things they did.

So Sunday we will study through this. I think it will be helpful whether your kids or grandkids are young or old. It is never too late to have some influence on those around us. In fact, the principles we will learn will teach us how to have influence in the lives of everyone around us, not just kids and grandkids.

Looking forward to Sunday!
Pastor Noel

A Good Start

2010-05-26T07:10:00.001-04:00

Yesterday had a great start and a great finish. I'll tell you a little about the start here and I'll fill you in on the finish in my next post.

Yesterday was day one of our Tuesday morning men's Connect Group for the Summer semester. Things went well. All the men shared some personal prayer needs and we prayed individually for each of those needs. We also began to look at the Genesis story of the life of Joseph. I can't wait to see what the Lord will do through these 15 weeks.

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Today I will be preaching at Violet Conners' funeral. I sat down yesterday with her husband and their three adult children. I've got to say there have been few times I've been with families that seem as close and as supportive of each other as them. I am actually looking forward to the funeral today. It will be a real celebration of Vi's life.

Pastor Noel

Joseph Group

2010-05-25T05:30:00.001-04:00

This morning is the first day of our new men's Connect Group for the summer semester. I'm really looking forward to it. As I was studying yesterday and preparing for how we would begin, I realized that almost every issue or struggle that men deal with is dealt with somewhere in the story of Joseph. Thirteen chapters in the book of Genesis... More than almost anyone else in the Bible... Joseph is a man every Christian man should study closely.

By the way, we had a pretty good day Sunday. Good crowd in worship despite the first really good weather day in a while.

Well, I had a good devotional time today. Time to get ready to head out...

Pastor Noel

Reasons I'm Looking Forward To Tomorrow

2010-05-22T20:04:00.000-04:00

I'm looking forward to tomorrow for several reasons...

... Tomorrow is the first day of our new Connect group semester. We have some new groups and some carry over groups. All of them will be good. Tomorrow we will have several people attend a Connect Group for the first time. In fact, I just received an email from someone that will be doing that. If you have not yet signed up for a group, just join us tomorrow at 9:30 and we will help you find a group that will be a good fit for you.

... Tomorrow we will begin again our Sunday morning prayer time around the alter. During weeks we have Connect Groups, many people from our church meet at 9:10 and gather around the altar as our deacons lead us in prayer for the upcoming service. I look forward to these special times.

... I'm fired up about my message tomorrow morning. See previous blog posts to read about that.

... I'm looking forward to our new Sunday night study. You can also read more about this in previous blog posts.

... I'm looking forward to meeting new people who will be visiting our church for the first time tomorrow.

... I'm looking forward to worshiping the Lord tomorrow!

Pastor Noel

Why We Aren't A Liberal Church

2010-05-21T06:30:00.000-04:00

I made a last minute decision yesterday to change the focus of our upcoming Sunday night series. I still want to do what we had planned, but at a later time. Now we are going to spend the next three weeks focusing on who we are as a church and why we are that way.

The three message titles will be...

-- Why We Aren't A Liberal Church
-- Why We Aren't An Emerging Church
-- Why We Aren't A Liturgical Church

The point of this study is not to bash other churches but to help our church understand who we are and why. Churches across the country and in our area are changing. Some of those changes are good and have a biblical basis. Some of those changes are very bad and have no biblical basis. All kinds of activities, lifestyles, and beliefs are endorsed by churches and are said to be sanctioned by the Lord when Scripture clearly contradicts those claims.

The church is defined by God's Word.

I want us to look into Scripture and learn what the church should look like. I want us to know some of the errors of direction churches make and how they make them.

This first week we will answer the question: Why aren't we a liberal church? We will learn what is meant by the phrase 'liberal church'. We will look at some examples of practices and beliefs. We will learn how churches get to that place. And of course we will study the biblical model that speaks to this error.

I think this will be a profitable study. I hope you will join us.

Pastor Noel

If Someone Hurts You -- Post II

2010-05-20T10:35:00.001-04:00

I just finished the final draft of Sunday's message about what to do if you have been hurt. I can't wait until Sunday. There is so much relevant and life changing wisdom in Scripture and the Lord has taught me much about this subject as I have studied these last two days.

When we've been hurt, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in our lives. How we handle our hurt and the offending party will go a long ways toward determining our future and God's role in our lives. If you would like to really get prepared, read the story of Joseph in Genesis 39-50. I look forward to diving deep into parts of this Sunday morning.

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On another subject, we had a great New Member's Class last night. The group asked many questions as we went through the material. The Lord added a number of new people to our church family last night!

What To Do If Someone Hurts You

2010-05-19T16:18:00.001-04:00

Has someone ever hurt you? Maybe it was someone in your family... Maybe a close friend... A coworker...

Often people carry that hurt around for years or even decades, and then worse than that when a hurt person gets a chance for revenge, some pretty negative things can happen. The result is more hurt, more broken relationships, bitterness, anger, and on and on.

I've spent the day studying part of the life of Joseph found in Genesis 40-45. In this passage we learn what to do if someone hurts us. We learn how to take a bad situation and make something redeeming out of it.

This is something we all need to learn. We will be focusing on this Sunday morning in our 10:45 worship service. I hope you will join us.

I usually study from my home study on Wednesdays, but I'm heading in to the church now for a meeting and for tonight's New Member Class. I'm liking forward to meeting new people the Lord is adding to our church family.

Pastor Noel

Day of Meetings and More

2010-05-18T16:45:00.000-04:00

Tuesdays are mostly meeting days. Things went well. Pastor Shawn tells me we have 256 adults signed up for adult Connect Groups for the Summer semester. That is good. We will likely have a few more sign up this week and a number of people will just show up for a group this next week and we will sign them up then. So this should be another good semester.

Think through people you know that could still be invited to the group you are going to attend. Give them a call this week. I think I'm going to invite the guy who has been working on my car lately and also our church architect. I don't know if either has a church but it can't hurt to ask.

Well, today is also the day I take a kid to dance practice, so I'm sitting outside the dance studio watching people fight over parking places in the rain. Fun, fun...

Pastor Noel

Upcoming Week

2010-05-17T05:40:00.000-04:00

It is going to be a busy week but I had a refreshing time with the Lord this morning so I am ready...

This morning is the Heartbeats Golf Tournament. That is an annual event where we try to raise a little money for Heartbeats, a great organization that helps women in crisis situations, and have a little fun as well. Looks like it is going to rain all morning, so I don't know what that is going to do to the schedule.

I will be preaching a funeral at 1:00 p.m. today. The funeral is for someone I never met. These kinds of funerals can be difficult. Pray that I will have wisdom.

A couple of meetings this afternoon, and I hope to get a little bit of a jump on message prep this week since we are starting a new PM series.

Here is what I'm praying for this week...

... Some decisions about construction plans for preschool facility...
... Connect Ministry: The new semester begins Sunday...
... PM Series. I'll blog more on this tomorrow.
... Youth Ministry: Troy and I will be working together this week...
... New Member Class on Wednesday night...

Pastor Noel

Sunday Morning Prayer

2010-05-16T06:58:00.000-04:00

What I'm praying for is morning...

... That our worship service will feature the Lord. I am praying at people will experience the presence of the Lord is morning through singing praises and responding to the preaching of His Word.

... I'm praying for the two special speakers we have this morning. I am praying that each of them will be able to convey a contagious enthusiasm and love for the Lord.

... Visitors and guests! I'm praying that those who are here this morning for the first time will feel the warm love of our church. I pray that they will be able to see how much our church loves Jesus and how much we care about them.

... I am asking the Lord to help me preach with clarity and passion. I want my words to reflect His words. I am praying for few distractions during the message time. I'm praying that people will have soft, receptive hearts.

... I am praying for Kids Praise...

... I am praying for those who will be in our service today who don't yet know the Lord. I pray that today is the day that choose to make Him their Lord.

... I am praying for the testimony a couple pin our church will be doing during the service this morning.

... I am praying, because I know that makes a difference!

Pastor Noel

Sunday

2010-05-15T06:24:00.002-04:00

I'm sitting in Lexington, KY this morning waiting for the family to wake up and looking over my notes for tomorrow morning's message. Tomorrow we will be continuing our focus on life lessons we can learn as we study the Old Testament character of Joseph. This Sunday we will be focusing on Genesis 39 where we see Joseph showing an unusual amount of character in the face of temptation. When you stand back and look at this event from a distance, you can't help but marvel at his integrity, and when you take a very close up look you can't help but learn some important lessons that Joseph knew to help him live with so much integrity. We all need to learn these lessons.

We will also take some time to focus on the upcoming Connect Ministry semester. We have a testimony planned that will thrill you as we point to some of the life change we've seen in recent semesters. If you haven't yet signed up for a group, read through my recent blog posts for some suggestions or go to our website (www.FirstBaptistHeath.com) to see the whole catalog.

I've been in Anniston, AL these past two days visiting with my Mom. She has recently been diagnosed with lung cancer. She started chemotherapy last week, and she will start radiation next week. I wanted my girls to be able to spend some time with her before the treatment got into full swing. We had a good couple of days. Thank you for all who have been praying for her as she goes through is difficult time in her life.

Pastor Noel

More Connect Groups

2010-05-14T20:55:00.000-04:00

We have so many great Connect Groups this next semester. It is hard to know which ones to blog about before Sunday. I've listed the descriptions for two more adult co-ed classes below.

Crazy Love is taught by Sam Smith. This will be a good group. I've read the Crazy Love book by Francis Chan. It is one of the best books I've read. I know it has made an impact on Sam's life too when he read it a year or so ago. I recommend this class to anyone who wants to learn to a have a more intimate walk with the Lord.

Essential Truths is taught by Ron Baughman. This group is going to focus on having a better grip on the core truths of the Christian faith. Not only will this help you in your personal walk but it will also help you to share and make an impact on those around you. I think this will be a good group both for those who have been walking with the Lord a while and those new to the faith.

Both of these groups meet Sundays at 9:30 at the church. If you would like to sign-up for either of these or any other group for this next semester you can fill out a Connection Card at church this Sunday or you can sign-up on our website at www.FirstBaptistHeath.com. Remember this Sunday is the last official sign-up day.

Below are the group descriptions. A catalog of all the groups can be found on the church website.

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God

The God of the universe is crazy about you! His love is the most powerful thing in the world and He wants to give it to you, so you can live for Him. If you have made a commitment to follow Christ, then join this group to be reminded and challenged in your walk. Let the love you have received from God impact your life like never before.

Essential Truths: Knowing Christ Personally

In this study you’ll learn what God expects of you, how to make life more meaningful, apply what you learn, and embrace life changing goals for yourself. Perhaps you’re a new follower of Jesus Christ, or maybe you’ve never fully understood the essential, core truths of the Christian faith. This revealing 13-week study will answer many of the questions you bump into as you seek to live out real-life faith.

Pastor Noel

Total Money Makeover

2010-05-13T13:55:00.000-04:00

One of the Connect Groups I am excited about this next semester is Total Money Makeover led by Scott Parry and Eugene Danner.

Scott and Eugene are going to lead this group through the Dave Ramsey book by the same title. Donna and I have read this book and tried to put it's principles, which are really Biblical principles, into practice. It has made such a big difference in our lives, and not just financially.

I believe every couple and every adult should go through this book no matter where they are financially. If we could learn to apply God's principles of money management to our lives, it would change our marriages, the direction for our future, our joy and contentment, and on and on...

I give away literally dozens of these books every year as I counsel with people struggling to get their footing in life and marriage. I believe going through this with Scott and Eugene would be a great experience.

This group meets on Wednesday evenings at 6:00. If you would like to sign up for this or any other Connect Group you may do so by filling out a card at the church and dropping it in a Connection Box or you can just go to our website: www.FirstBaptistHeath.com. There is also a catalogue there of all of the Summer semester Connect Groups.

This coming Sunday, 5/16, is the last day to sign-up, so don't wait too long!

Pastor Noel

Men's & Ladies' Speakers

2010-05-12T17:12:00.001-04:00

This Sunday morning we have a special treat. At 9:30 all the men will gather together in Harmon Hall, and all the ladies will gather in the worship center to listen to some very special speakers.

For the ladies we have Julie Gilliam, a Christian inspirational speaker from the Columbus area and for the men we have Coach Klontz, the head baseball coach from Heath High school, and an outspoken believer.

Regular worship will still begin at 10:45, but plan to come early. This will be a great day!

Pastor Noel

Connect Group: Evangelism

2010-05-11T14:45:00.000-04:00

I want to highlight one of our upcoming Connect Groups for the summer semester.

Evangelism: The Way of the Master

This group will be led by Jason Hurley. In this group, Jason is going to lead people to have the tools and the confidence to be able to share their faith in any circumstance. The book, The Way of the Master, by Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort teaches people how to lead people in make a profession of faith the way Jesus led people.

In addition to the regular group times which take place on Sunday mornings at 9:30, Jason is setting up opportunities for the group to go out and share the gospel in non-threatening environments. The goal is that when the fifteen week period is over, that everyone in the group will not only have the know-how but the practical experience that will help them be more bold and effective for the Lord.

Jason will be a great leader, in fact he has led this study multiple times before in a previous church. I believe this could be a great group for any adult who wants to take another step in their faith and make a difference in the lives of those around them.

If you have any questions, send me an email. I would love to help you. You can sign-up for this group either by filling out a Connections Card at church or by visiting our website at www.FirstBaptistHeath.com.

Pastor Noel

P.S.
By the way, don’t forget that this Sunday morning we have a special ladies speaker for the ladies and a special men’s speaker for the men. Both of those are at 9:30. The men are in Harmon Hall, and the ladies are in the worship center. Worship is at our regular time of 10:45 a.m..

One Good Year

2010-05-11T04:50:00.000-04:00

I'm praying especially for Scott and Heather Parry this morning. They are flying to Dallas today to spend a week at a Fellowship One conference. It should be a beneficial conference. Fellowship One is the software we use to manage church information, track prospects and prospect assignments, facilitate Connect ministry, and some online registrations. It is also the software that will manage our preschool security check-in when the new preschool facility is open.

But the reason I'm praying for Scott and Heather this morning is not just the trip to Dallas. This Sunday will mark Scott's one ear anniversary of serving as our church administrator. Most of scott's work takes place behind the scenes, but his contribution is invaluable to what we do as a church. Two of our recent successes, the amazing results of the Securing Future Disciples financial campaign and this past Sunday's Mother's Day outreach would not have happened without Scott's help.

So join me in praying for this family. Thank the Lord that both of them and their family are such a blessing to our church.

Pastor Noel

A Real Commitment To Prayer

2010-05-10T09:31:00.001-04:00

I just had a conversation with Hui Cha, one of our church members who is spending a few weeks back in her home country of North Korea. I asked her to tell me about the churches there. She talked about their passionate love for the Lord and for their concern for lost people. I asked her what she attributed that to, and she told me that most of the churches had a prayer meeting from 5:00 am to 6:00 am six days a week (everyday but Sunday).

That makes me think...

Would we be willing to do that?

How many people would be there each morning?

Pastor Noel

A Great Sunday

2010-05-09T17:18:00.000-04:00

What a great time of worship we had this morning! We were completely packed out... Probably had nearly 100 visitors in the service... Thirteen babies dedicated... One public profession of faith... Great worship... Great spirit...

I'll comment more later on, but I want to say thanks to everyone who made this happen. We had special teams greeting visitors, we had people make a ton of prospect phone calls this last week, we had people put together gift bags, we had people park in the lot behind the gym to free up spaces in the main lots, and more...

Good team effort today. I am thankful to the Lord for letting us have this special day.

Pastor Noel

Dead Flies

2010-05-08T17:47:00.000-04:00

Ecclesiastes 10:1 (NLT) Dead flies will cause even a bottle of perfume to stink! Yes, an ounce of foolishness can outweigh a pound of wisdom and honor.

Lord, remind me that one hundred right and godly decisions in life, in marriage, and in my family, can be made meaningless with one foolish decision.

Pastor Noel

Babies...

2010-05-08T09:21:00.000-04:00

I just looked over an email the church office sent me last night listing thirteen families who have RSVP'd for baby dedication tomorrow. On top of that I know we already have another half dozen we plan to have dedications for this Summer. On top of that I know of at least three pregnant ladies in the church now.

So, what is my point?

I am so thankful to the Lord and to our church for the pending construction of the new preschool ministry suite. You have been so faithful to give to this. I don't recall off the top of my head what the latest total is, but it will be in the bulletin tomorrow. I do know a few thousand dollars more came in this week and that we are well over $100,000 collected for this project in the last couple of months.

Perfect timing... huh?

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I've been praying for the service tomorrow morning. I hope you will join me in this. We are looking for a big crowd and a great opportunity to make an impact in our community.

Pastor Noel

Mother's Day Service

2010-05-07T07:18:00.000-04:00

I am looking forward to Sunday. It is Mother's Day, and we are going to turn it up a notch at the church!

One thing we are doing is moving our regular worship time to 9:30. We think this will make it easier for new families to come to worship who may have Mother's Day plans that would preclude them from the 10:45 service.

We are also having a very special parent/child dedication time in the service for both families in our church and families in our community. We have tried to contact all of the families in our community who have had babies in the last year. Many of those who do not have a church home have RSVP'd to be with us this Sunday.

It's going to be a good day. Pray that the Spirit of God is encountered in our service in a powerful way as we worship the Lord and preach His word.

Glad I belong to Him,
Pastor Noel

AWANA Awards Night II

2010-05-05T16:47:00.002-04:00

The Awards Ceremony was great. Seeing so many kids being recognized for their hard work was really exciting. I loved seeing so many of the kids who come on the bus being recognized for their achievement.

The youth praise band led us in worship. One of the songs they sang was unfamiliar to me, but I saw how the kids were worshipping and I remembered that the point isn't to pick songs I enjoy, it is to encourage others to worship. I smiled and tried my best to learn the new song.

My hat's off to all of the dedicated workers and especially to Cheryl Wyrick, our leader, who, by the way skipped out on her daughter's labor to be with the kids tonight!

Pastor Noel

AWANA Awards Night

2010-05-05T12:31:00.003-04:00

Tonight at 6:00 we will host our seventeenth AWANA Awards Night. This is an important night for a number of reasons...

-- It gives us a chance to honor a whole bunch of kids, many of whom have done a remarkable job learning Bible verses in this last year.

-- It gives us a chance to meet and thank the parents who have supported their kids in a this endeavor this year.

-- It gives us a chance to say thanks for the dozens and dozens of AWANA workers who have faithfully served week by week.

-- It serves as a reminder that our church does not exist just to make those of us who have been around a while feel comfortable. No! We exist to reach children, and youth, and unreached families in our community. That is the best way we can please the Lord and show His love. May our church never loose sight of our purpose!

If you're free, join us tonight at 6:00... It will be a good night.

Pastor Noel

Location:AWANA Awards Night

Upcoming Messages

2010-05-05T06:01:00.003-04:00

Today is a study day. As I do most Wednesdays, I will spend my time today studying and preparing for upcoming messages. Other concerns and issues can wait until Thursday. On Wednesdays I hunker down in an office I built in my basement and just study. I have counseling appointments on Wednesday evenings, usually several. Today I have only two, with AWANA Awards night in between.

My upcoming Sunday morning message, a Mother's Day message, will focus primarily from Genesis 41 as we look at the dream Joseph interpreted for the Pharoah. I'll blog more on this later.

I'm also working on our next Sunday night Bible Study Series. The working title is "You Have Never Read The Bible: A Surprising Approach To How To Study Your Bible." Obviously the title needs some work. This series will last three weeks and it will begin Sunday evening, May 23. I would love to have the notebooks written by the end of the day so Carla could begin to put them together, but I doubt I'll get that far.

Well, time to begin...

Glad I Belong To Him,
Pastor Noel

Date Night

2010-05-04T19:29:00.002-04:00

Tap dance practice was canceled tonight and my kid's Ohio 'grandparents' asked last night if they could have the girls overnight, so a free night with the wife!

We just finished up chores, piano lessons, and church work... About to fire up the grill...

Noel

Attention Men

2010-05-04T10:01:00.002-04:00

Below is an email I sent to the men in our church and community today. if you would like to be a part of this or any other Connect Group this summer, you can register online at www.FirstBaptistHeath.com.

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Dear Men,

This Summer semester, I will be leading a Men's Connect Group on Tuesday mornings at 7:00 a.m. focusing on the life of Joseph in the Old Testament.

As men, we can learn much from Joseph. He faced many of the same issues we face. As leaders in our families, our careers, and our church, we need to know what Joseph has to say. Take a look at a list of some of the things Joseph faced in his life...

Rejection by his peers...
Sexual temptation...
Career failures...
Career successes...
Poverty...
Wealth...
Oportunities to get revenge...
Family issues...

So we will take 15 weeks this Summer beginning on Tuesday, May 25. We will immerse ourselves as deeply into Joseph's life as we can. We will help each other see how the lessons we learn can make a real difference in our lives. It's going to be a great study.

I know many of you will be traveling some through the summer and you know today that you will not be able to make all fifteen Tuesdays. That's OK. If you have an interest, still sign up. Let's help each other find the help we need from the Lord and His Word this summer.

To register for this group you can go to our website (www.firstbaptistheath.com), register at church by completing a registration card, or by simply replying to this email.

I look forward to having many of you in my group.

Pastor Noel

P.S.

~~ Pass this email around. The class is open to any men who are interested in coming.

Early Morning Meeting

2010-05-04T05:14:00.002-04:00

I'm looking forward to an early morning meeting today with a couple of men in our church.

Matt Parker owner of Front Door Strategies, a company that helps conservative political candidates around the country get their message out, has agreed to lead our First Impressions and Greeters ministries.

Brian Haught, who is responsible for the print and online publicity for a chain of jewelry stores, has agreed to help us with brochures and other print publicity.

It is encouraging to see godly men like these find ways to leverage their professional skills for the Kingdom of God!

Glad I belong to Him,
Pastor Noel

Interesting Day

2010-05-03T18:56:00.002-04:00

There have been no shortages of interesting days lately. Frankly, I wouldn't mind a good, long, boring, uneventful day. Well, the Lord is in control... No doubt.

One of the biggest things going on around the church this week is preparation for the next semester or small groups (Connect Ministry). Sign-ups are coming along, but we are still looking for a number of new people to sign-up in the next two weeks.

Last Sunday Ken and Denise Tobin pulled me aside. (They are one of the middle aged couples we've recently baptized.) They told me that it was our new semester strategy for Connect Ministry that finally got them to transition from worship attenders to being involved in small groups. It was only a few weeks after being in a small group (they were in Greg Burns' group) that they came to see me about their salvation. I had the wonderful privilege of leading them to the Lord.

There are more stories like that to tell about each Connect Ministry semester we've had so far. I'm praying for more and more of our worship attenders to take the step this semester.

----------

On another note, didn't Julia George do a great job leading us in special music this past Sunday. It was neat seeing her sing while her dad played the drums and her brother played the guitar. We have some talented people in our church.

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Also thanks for the calls, emails, and words of encouragement many of you shared Sunday afternoon and Sunday night. It means more than you know.

Glad to belong to the Lord,
Pastor Noel

Securing Future Disciples Update II

2010-04-06T14:26:00.004-04:00

Update... More information has come in since yesterday...

Here are the latest Securing Future Disciples numbers: (This is going to be reason to cheer!)

$181,094 -- Total of One Year Pledges & Initial Offering
$ 14,000 -- Total Savings from Not Borrowing the Needed Funds
$195,094 -- Total Available (Assuming 100% of Pledges are Given)

When the savings are included this puts us at 102.7% of our high goal! Even better news is this... After only four weeks, we have collected $95,406.13! That is 52.7% of our new one year pledge total.

We are still praying for a few more commitments to be made and of course for the faithfulness of those who have made commitments, but it is apparent that the Lord has certainly blessed us in this endeavor!

Take a few minutes and thank the Lord in prayer for his gracious provision.

Pastor Noel

Securing Future Disciples Update

2010-04-05T11:45:00.004-04:00

What a great time we had in worship yesterday! A good crowd in the 8:00 service and a packed crowd in the 10:45 service... One profession of faith in the early service... Choir did a great job... We got to meet so many new people...

I love Easter Sunday!

On another subject... Here are the latest Securing Future Disciples numbers: (This is going to be reason to cheer!)

$181,094 -- Total of One Year Pledges & Initial Offering
$ 14,000 -- Total Savings from Not Borrowing the Needed Funds
$195,094 -- Total Available (Assuming 100% of Pledges are Given)

When the savings are included this puts us at 102.7% of our high goal! Even better news is this... After only four weeks, we have collected $93,006.13! That is 51.4% of our new one year pledge total.

We are still praying for a few more commitments to be made and of course for the faithfulness of those who have made commitments, but it is apparent that the Lord has certainly blessed us in this endeavor!

Take a few minutes and thank the Lord in prayer for his gracious provision.

Pastor Noel

Securing Future Disciples

2010-03-15T19:24:00.003-04:00

So the question everyone has been asking me today... "How did we do in our Securing Future Disciples campaign?"

In case you did not know, yesterday was commitment day for our campaign to rebuild our preschool ministry facilities. Our church families streamed forward and placed their commitments and their offerings on the altar. It was the culmination of many weeks of hard work by dozens of people in our church. It was the culmination of much fasting and praying and seeking the Lord.

So how did we do?

Well... You don't really think I would break an announcement like that on my blog do you?

No. We're still working. A few more commitment cards came in today. That will likely continue this week as people who were out of town yesterday are able to make it by the church office. I'm sure we will receive a few more on Sunday from others who weren't in our service yesterday.

We are working on a tally....

The plan right now is to share the totals on Sunday, March 28 in our 10:45 service.

Can I at least give a hint?

:) -- Just don't miss the 3/28 service!

(and get those cards in if you were out of town... I'm anxious to see the final numbers...)

Pastor Noel

Have you Struggled in Prayer?

2010-03-10T08:49:00.003-05:00

Quick note from something I learned in my quiet time this morning...

Have you struggled in prayer? I don't mean, 'have you struggled to pray' or 'have you struggled to remember to pray' or even 'have you struggled to make time to pray'. I mean have you struggled for someone or something in prayer?

This morning I was reading in Colossians and I came across this verse...

Colossians 2:1 (NLT)
I want you to know how much I have agonized for you and for the church at Laodicea, and for many other believers who have never met me personally.

I thought, 'Agonized how?'. When you continue to read and study, you learn that the chief way he agonized for them was in prayer.

Later in the same book, I read this verse...

Colossians 4:12 (NKJV)
12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

So in these verses, we see Paul agonizing for the Colossians in prayer, and we see Epaphras laboring fervently for them in prayer.

The questions then are... When was the last time I agonized or labored fervently for someone one in prayer? Are my prayers simply reciting a list of concerns? Are there new things I need to learn about prayer?

Pastor Noel

New Facebook Trend...

2010-03-03T09:41:00.002-05:00

As a pastor, I have counseled with a number of couples in the last year with troubled marriages. It is stunning how many of those marriage difficulties have something to do with Facebook or some other social networking site.

Sometimes the trouble has come because friendships gradually crossed the line of appropriate communications. Other times there was just suspicion and distrust.

Thankfully, Donna and I have not faced these difficulties, but every time I sit down with another couple in counseling, I am reminded that the potential is there.

So Donna and I decided to combine our accounts. I simply changed the account name and email on my account by going to the 'account settings' page. And we are in process of getting all her friends to be on my list (or our list).

Once this is done. We will just make her old account inactive.

We've also share our email passwords with each other. We have no secrets in our marriage and I don't want anything to creep in and cause distrust.

I know this won't be something everyone will want to do. That's fine. In fact, just because you take steps to have openness and integrity in your marriage in this area doesn't mean you can't have problems in other areas. But if you think combining your accounts would provide more trust, less possibility of friendships going in wrong directions, or even just a good witness and encouragement to others... then give it a try.

Noel

Kenya Update...

2010-02-15T09:42:00.004-05:00

Here is a part of an email I received from our pastor in Kenya about a meeting with the Muslim guardians of the orphans we feed and sponsor in our Christian School...

Yesterday we had a good time with the guardians to lift you, pastor Noel and all the donors in prayer. I wish you could see how wonderful and amazing it was for the community to see Muslim women dressed with their full Muslim dressing praying the Lord Jesus in this matter.

Isn't it great to hear how the Lord is using us to minister to even Muslim families on the other side of the world!

Pastor Noel

Inclement Weather II

2010-02-07T06:13:00.003-05:00

Everything is a go this morning!

I drove around the area early this morning and conditions were much better than I expected. I was amazed at the difference in snow accumulation from one area to the next and obviously some roads have been cleared better than others, but all in all I didn't have any problems. Of course everyone should use their own judgment.

The church parking lot is in good shape. The worship center is warm :)...

See you for Connect Groups at 9:30 and worship at 10:45!

Pastor Noel

Inclement Weather

2010-02-06T18:42:00.004-05:00

The $64,000 question... will we have church services tomorrow?

The 99 cent answer... sure!

The plan right now at 6:45 p.m. on Saturday is that all morning services will take place as scheduled. I don't anticipate that to change. The parking lots at the church have been cleared. The city is working on the roads. Of course, if you can't safely get out then stay home.

If there is a change, I will post that change here.

By the way, here is our official inclement weather notification plan:

If it becomes necessary to cancel Sunday or mid-week services/meetings due to inclement weather, a cancellation notice will be recorded on our answering machine and will appear on our website at least one hour in advance of the service time. In most cases, a notice will also be aired on our local radio stations WHTH/WNKO and WCLT and posted on their website.

I look forward to seeing you in worship on Sunday! It is going to be a great day!

Pastor Noel

Brit Hume

2010-01-18T20:18:00.003-05:00

Men's Connect Groups -- Part 2

2009-12-29T06:23:00.003-05:00

Below is another email I sent out to all of the men in our church for whom we have an email in our system. For some of our men we either don't have an email at all or we have an incorrect email. So, here it is...

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Dear Men of First Heath,

This morning, let me recommend another men's connect group for next semester...

About a year ago I picked up a book someone had recommended to me called Crazy Love by Francis Chan. I don't think at that point I had even had heard of Francis Chan. The book was short and easy to read, so it didn't take long to get through, but wow! It turned out to be one of the very best books I've ever read.

Crazy Love is about how much God loves us and how we can be closer to Him. And while that seems like the theme to a hundred thousand books, this book is different. This book is so genuine and so fresh, I promise it will change your outlook and understanding of how much God loves people.

This next Connect Ministry semester, Sam Smith, who I think read the book about the same time I did, will be leading a connect group centered around a study of this book.

This would be a great group for all of our men, young or old, new Christian or long-time Christian.

The group will meet at the church each Monday, at 6:00 a.m..

If you would like just a taste of what the book is about, visit the website www.CrazyLoveBook.com and watch some of the brief videos there.

You can see all of the men's groups on our website: www.FirstBaptistHeath.com. Click on "Love People" and then on the link for our Connect Group Catalogue.

To sign-up for this group or any other group, just visit our website or call our church office (740-522-5245). If you have any questions about the groups that are offered, email our small groups pastor, Pastor Shawn (Shawn@FBCHO.com), and he will be glad to help you.

In Christ,
Pastor Noel

Men's Connect Groups -- Part 1

2009-12-28T07:24:00.005-05:00

This is a copy of an email I sent out to all of the men in our church for whom we have an email in our system. For some of our men we either don't have an email at all or we have an incorrect email. So, here it is...

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Dear Men of First Heath,

As you probably know, we are in the process of helping people sign-up for our next semester of small groups. We call these groups Connect Groups.

Last semester we saw a number of new men get connected in groups and we saw these same men really begin to grow stronger in their faith and walk with the Lord. I believe this next semester will be even better.

This semester we are offering seven men's groups. These seven groups will be offered on five different days of the week. There will be morning groups and evening groups... There will be weekend groups and weekday groups... There will be something to fit any man's schedule. Of course, many of you will choose to be in one of the thirteen mixed adult groups instead of specifically a men's group and that is fine, but take a close look at the men's groups that are offered this semester and see what fits best for you.

You can see all of the men's groups on our website: www.FirstBaptistHeath.com. Click on "Love People" and then on the link for our Connect Group Catalogue.

Let me highlight one of our men's groups today. I'll highlight more in emails later in the week.

Apologetics: Surprised By Faith
Group Leader: Dr. Eric Chico
When: Tuesdays, 7:00 a.m.

Have you ever wondered what the evidences or the proofs for our faith were? Have you ever struggled with how you could speak intelligently with an unbeliever or a skeptic about why he should choose Christ? Have you wrestled with some of the criticisms of the Christian faith and wished you could give a better answer either for your own benefit or the benefit of someone else? If so, this would be a great group to be a part of.

Eric has spent his life studying apologetics, the reasons and the arguments behind why we believe what we believe. Eric is uniquely qualified to lead this group.

This would be a great group for men who want to stretch their faith.

To sign-up for this group or any other group, just visit our website or call our church office (740-522-5245). If you have any questions about the groups that are offered, email our small groups pastor, Pastor Shawn (Shawn@FBCHO.com), and he will be glad to help you.

In Christ,
Pastor Noel

Focused on Service

2009-10-13T09:32:00.001-04:00

Each week in our Connect Ministry (small groups), our leaders spend some time focusing on encouraging people to be involved in ministry and service. I just had a meeting this morning where we reviewed some of the new sign-ups. It is so encouraging to see so many of our people getting involved!

As an example, in my Tuesday Morning Men's Group, we had eleven in attendance today. Of those eleven men, three signed up to come listen to boys say their AWANA verses on Wednesday nights, two signed up for our weekly soul winning class, and one signed up to serve in our Food Pantry Ministry.

Our leaders are doing such a great job encouraging people to serve... Disciples are being made!

Thankful to Pastor such a Wonderful Church,
Pastor Noel

Letter to the Church...

2009-10-06T12:13:00.003-04:00

Below is an email I sent to our church members for whom we have an email address on record...

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Dear Church Family,

I'm in my church study preparing for our weekly staff meeting, and I thought I would send out a quick email to the church and share some good news...

First, I just received an email from a lady in our church that felt convicted to go and share Christ with her 95-year-old, Jehovah's Witness aunt. She took her notes from my sermon on the myth "Dead People Go To A Better Place". Her aunt repented of her sins and professed her faith in Christ. Wow!

Some more good news...

Sunday, September 27, was the first day in our new Connect Ministry semester. We had a record attendance of 419 people for the first week! We were up in every age category we measure. We were very grateful for that incredible number but had braced for the number to drop for week two. Guess what... it didn't drop... it went up! When all of the numbers are in, it looks like the total will be between 440 and 450 in small group attendance.

Tomorrow (10/7) I will begin to focus on 1 & 2 Timothy in my daily quiet time videos. If you would like a little help and accountability with your quiet times, check out MyMornings.blogspot.com to see my daily videos. There is an introductory video you can view here and then just join in with the others who are sharing together in our devotions each morning.

This coming Sunday morning I will be continuing my series on "Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe." We will be focusing on the myth: God Forgets All Our Sins. I am looking forward to the day of worship. I hope you will be here with us.

Pastor Wally, Pastor Shawn, Scott, and I will be meeting early tomorrow morning, as we do each Wednesday, to specifically pray for our church members and our community. If you send an email to info@fbcho.com before 6:00 a.m. tomorrow, I promise we will pray especially for you and your need when we gather together.

Pastor Noel

Thoughts on Last Sunday and the Next...

2009-09-22T10:10:00.004-04:00

This past Sunday was a great Sunday of worship...

We had a great crowd... both on the main floor and in the balcony! (In fact we had some families that had a difficult time finding seats together. I want to remind our regular worship attenders to sit as close to the front as you can get and to scoot to the center of the row you are sitting on. That will help us make things easier and more comfortable for our guests each week.)

We began the service with baptisms which has become an almost weekly occurrence. I pray this will always be true, and I pray that we never get 'used to it'. We should always marvel at the grace of God that changes lives.

We had a very good response during our invitation... a number of people and families praying at the altar. We had one young adult lady make a profession of faith and three youth make public that they had made professions of faith over the weekend.

Sunday night was a blast. We had a real wedding in our evening worship service... Sound strange? It was great! We had a young couple come into our church a few weeks ago. They made a profession of faith and began to allow the grace of God to change their lives. One of the things they wanted to do was to get married and re-start their family the right way. They didn't have the resources to have a wedding so we decided we would just make it a part of our worship service and celebrate the grace of God... How God's grace was changing them and how God's grace is changing all of us. So we had a wedding, a sermon, and a couple of baptisms... Then we had a giant reception. I was so proud of how our church came out to celebrate with the young couple and how they blessed them with money and gifts at the reception... Wow! What a great example of the love of Christ.

This next Sunday is going to be fun as well...

Our new semester of Connect Groups begins Sunday. We are hoping for a record attendance and involvement in our Connect Ministry beginning this week. If you haven't signed up for a group, there is still a few days left. Go to our website, fill out the form, and choose your group. Some of the groups are closed now, but we will do our best to get you in the group you choose.

This week we will be continuing our series of messages on 'Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe.' This weeks myth is... God Helps Those Who Help Themselves. We will be in Genesis 16.

Pastor Wally just let me know we have two more baptisms schedule for this Sunday morning!

A quick note on our daily Quiet Time encouragements. If you sometimes struggle with having a daily devotional time, take a look at our daily QT Encouragement blog... MyMornings.blogspot.com.

Pastor Noel

New Song for Worship...

2009-09-18T10:02:00.004-04:00

Pastor Wally, Pastor Shawn, and Church Administrator Scott are working on doing this little number in an upcoming service...

Pastor Noel

Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe

2009-09-07T12:45:00.003-04:00

There are two things on my mind this morning as I do a little studying and praying about what is on the horizon at First Baptist Church of Heath…

First, I am looking forward to our new message series that begins this Sunday. After spending six weeks focusing on just two chapters in the Book of Revelation, now we are going to skip around the Bible for the next six weeks. I am borrowing this series title from a Larry Osborne book I read a while back. As soon as I saw the book title, I thought this would make a great message series if the Lord gave me liberty to preach it. So the title of our upcoming series is “Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe”. Larry, in his book, identifies ten of these dumb things. In my message series, I plan to address six. Three of mine are similar to his; three are different. Here is my list…

Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe
• Myth #1: Your Conscience Should Be Your Guide (9/13)

• Myth #2: Dead People Go To A Better Place (9/20)

• Myth #3: God Helps Those Who Help Themselves (9/27)

• Myth #4: God Forgets All Our Sins (10/4)

• Myth #5: God Has A Blueprint For My Life (10/11)

• Myth #6: All Things Work Together For Your Good (10/18)

Invite your friends, family, and co-workers. Let’s see how God’s Word can encourage us as we learn the truth about these myths.

Second, I have received much positive feedback from our on-line quiet time encouragement videos. Tomorrow (9/8) I will begin to focus on the Gospel of John. If you would like to join me for these quiet times for a few weeks, this would be a good place to start.

The best way to begin is to watch the video I made on how to have a quiet time. Then just jump in with the rest of us tomorrow morning!

For the introduction video, click here.

For the daily quiet time videos, click here.

Invite your friends, family, and co-workers to join in. The website is MyMornings.Blogspot.com.

Pastor Noel

My Mornings...

2009-09-06T04:28:00.001-04:00