CHBC Ramblings
Monday, September 28, 2009
A Good Day of Worship
I really was blessed by our worship time yesterday, especially when we opened up to the congregation the opportunity to share spontaneous “Words of Praise.” How wonderfully inspiring it was to hear a dozen or more people pop up from their seats (or speak from her wheelchair, in Sylvia’s case) to share a sentence or two of praise for our great God. From time to time we do this, and sometimes I am asked if I ask one or two members to begin the sharing. Though there would be nothing wrong with it, as it would give others a few moments to collect their thoughts—and I might do it if it took several moments to get started—I have never needed to do that. To me, these brief words of testimony were the highlight of our service.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
In our seven part DiscipleLIFE Sermon Series, we are seeking to describe what a healthy disciple look like: there is balanced growth—head, heart, hands, and feet. In other words, a disciple LEARNS (head), a disciple LOVES (heart), a disciple SERVES (hands), and a disciple SHARES (feet). There are also stages of development: pre-birth, infant, growing, and mature.
Yesterday, we focused on the HEAD: Disciples Learn. A brief drama highlighted the problem when a part of our development is missing. We noticed several passages of Scripture that encourage us to know the Word and to use our minds. We looked at three habits that help us grow in the the HEAD: study the Word, receive training in ministry, and learn the disciplines that help us continually grow.
If you missed it, check it out on our website: www.clairmonthills.org.
This coming Sunday, our emphasis will be on the HEART: Disciples Love.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
Are you taking the challenge? Our Finance Committee is taking the lead from the Bible to challenge those who do not by habit tithe to try it for the months of September, October, and December. “Test me in this,” says the Lord. (See Malachi 3.6-12).
Prayer Is Powerful and Effective
That’s what the Bible says. So, why is it that people flock to concerts and other special events but prayer meetings are more often than not poorly attended? Does something have to have a “wow” factor to be important? Do we not “feel” something during our times of prayer? Is it that our prayer times themselves are too mundane and not bold in approaching God for the needs of our land?
I encourage you to take advantage of times for corporate prayer in addition to your own time of private prayer. Each Wednesday night after Church Supper we gather as a church to pray at 6:15 p.m.—most often we are around tables and pray for the needs of each other. Those who would rather pray silently than aloud are never put on the spot, but everyone is offered the opportunity to voice to God the concerns of his or her heart. (Prayer time is followed by a brief Bible study and discussion time; presently we are looking at the parables told by Jesus.)
On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m., a group meets in the Prayer Room (across from the All Purpose Room) for prayer. We filled the room up with eight people yesterday. We would love to overflow into a larger room as others come. We pretty much limit our prayer to the ministries of the day—our Life Groups (Sunday School Classes) and our Worship.
At the close of each Sunday morning service, our Deacon Ministry leads in a prayer time for any seeking prayer for themselves or others. You are invited to simply come to the front of the Worship Center (near the piano), and there are people who will pray with you about the needs you present.
There is also a Tuesday morning Men’s Prayer Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. in Conference Room 1. On a typical day we have a half dozen men who spend the first little while eating a sausage biscuit and having a time of fellowship, and then we turn our attention to prayer—for our church, for our nation, and for the sick and needy.
Can prayer become repetitive and even tedious at times? Yes, it can. So can eating, but most of us have not stopped. Jesus struggled mightily in prayer at times, which shows it is not always easy. Let me leave with the first verse of Luke 18. You can read the parable yourself if you wish. This verse simply tells the point he was trying to get across: “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
Prayerfully yours,
Fred O. Pitts
Monday, September 28, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Ramblings--20090922
CHBC Ramblings
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
In our seven part DiscipleLIFE Sermon Series, we are seeking to describe what a healthy disciple look like: there is balanced growth—head, heart, hands, and feet. In other words, a disciple LEARNS (head), a disciple LOVES (heart), a disciple SERVES (hands), and a disciple SHARES (feet). There are also stages of development: pre-birth, infant, growing, and mature.
This past week we addressed the question: Are you really a disciple? We examined the challenging words of Jesus in Luke 9.23-27 and noted...
A real disciple understands the value of following Jesus.
A real disciple understands the cost of following Jesus.
A real disciple privately and publicly acknowledges Jesus as Lord.
A real disciple “follows” through daily.
If you missed it, check it out on our website: www.clairmonthills.org.
I hope you “passed the test,” as Paul alluded to in 2 Corinthians 13.5. This Sunday we begin looking at each of the elements of balanced growth. We start with the HEAD: A disciple LEARNS. What should an baby Christian know? What about a growing disciple? One who is mature?
And how do we learn? Come evaluate your own progress in this area with us this Sunday morning.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
Tom Jackson did a wonderful job this past Sunday morning with a testimony of God’s faithfulness. He shared that while he had been a regular giver for years, it was in midlife 35 years ago when he and his wife started to live on 90% of what God had given them—in other words, they began to tithe. He shared that not only did they have enough to live on but that God began to bless them in many other ways. He also shared how God gave him a peace he had lacked because he had known he “ought” to do so before but had not. This was another great testimony of how God blesses as we obey the principles of His word. I encourage you to join others in our fellowship—if it is not already your habit—by giving God His own first fruits and living on 90% for September through November. I hope that you will discover the joy of cheerfully returning to God a small portion of what He has given you, and that for you, like Tom, it will become a life-long habit!
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes continue to grow!
Join the crowd this Sunday afternoon at 5:30. Adults have these choices:
A Life God Rewards, led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds, led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library.
The Chronicles of Narnia, by C. S. Lewis, led by me, meets in the Living Room. This class also welcomes the youth. This Sunday, come prepared to discuss the best known of the seven books, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Start reading today (turn off the tube!) and you will be read to join the discussion on Sunday.
Don’t forget to check out what we have for the children as I have shared those the past few weeks as well. The short version: Bible Drill and Story Time at 4:30 p.m.; His Kids choir at 5:30. Older children and youth handbells at 6:30. Call us for more information.
A Lot of Rain...
I joked on Facebook yesterday about changing my sermon for Sunday since I had been thinking of Noah so much lately! I was reminded by one of my “friends” to remember God’s promise not to end the world that way again.
God is faithful, and I am thankful that the worst of the storm seems over. Please remember, though, the many who have have been affected by the flood—especially those families who have lost loved ones. We can pray together for those, can’t we? Let’s do. And let’s remember that no matter how long the storm lasts, the sun will shine on us at last.
May God bless us all,
Fred O. Pitts, Pastor
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
In our seven part DiscipleLIFE Sermon Series, we are seeking to describe what a healthy disciple look like: there is balanced growth—head, heart, hands, and feet. In other words, a disciple LEARNS (head), a disciple LOVES (heart), a disciple SERVES (hands), and a disciple SHARES (feet). There are also stages of development: pre-birth, infant, growing, and mature.
This past week we addressed the question: Are you really a disciple? We examined the challenging words of Jesus in Luke 9.23-27 and noted...
A real disciple understands the value of following Jesus.
A real disciple understands the cost of following Jesus.
A real disciple privately and publicly acknowledges Jesus as Lord.
A real disciple “follows” through daily.
If you missed it, check it out on our website: www.clairmonthills.org.
I hope you “passed the test,” as Paul alluded to in 2 Corinthians 13.5. This Sunday we begin looking at each of the elements of balanced growth. We start with the HEAD: A disciple LEARNS. What should an baby Christian know? What about a growing disciple? One who is mature?
And how do we learn? Come evaluate your own progress in this area with us this Sunday morning.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
Tom Jackson did a wonderful job this past Sunday morning with a testimony of God’s faithfulness. He shared that while he had been a regular giver for years, it was in midlife 35 years ago when he and his wife started to live on 90% of what God had given them—in other words, they began to tithe. He shared that not only did they have enough to live on but that God began to bless them in many other ways. He also shared how God gave him a peace he had lacked because he had known he “ought” to do so before but had not. This was another great testimony of how God blesses as we obey the principles of His word. I encourage you to join others in our fellowship—if it is not already your habit—by giving God His own first fruits and living on 90% for September through November. I hope that you will discover the joy of cheerfully returning to God a small portion of what He has given you, and that for you, like Tom, it will become a life-long habit!
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes continue to grow!
Join the crowd this Sunday afternoon at 5:30. Adults have these choices:
A Life God Rewards, led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds, led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library.
The Chronicles of Narnia, by C. S. Lewis, led by me, meets in the Living Room. This class also welcomes the youth. This Sunday, come prepared to discuss the best known of the seven books, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Start reading today (turn off the tube!) and you will be read to join the discussion on Sunday.
Don’t forget to check out what we have for the children as I have shared those the past few weeks as well. The short version: Bible Drill and Story Time at 4:30 p.m.; His Kids choir at 5:30. Older children and youth handbells at 6:30. Call us for more information.
A Lot of Rain...
I joked on Facebook yesterday about changing my sermon for Sunday since I had been thinking of Noah so much lately! I was reminded by one of my “friends” to remember God’s promise not to end the world that way again.
God is faithful, and I am thankful that the worst of the storm seems over. Please remember, though, the many who have have been affected by the flood—especially those families who have lost loved ones. We can pray together for those, can’t we? Let’s do. And let’s remember that no matter how long the storm lasts, the sun will shine on us at last.
May God bless us all,
Fred O. Pitts, Pastor
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Ramblings--20090915
CHBC Ramblings
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Thanks!!
This past Sunday, the church recognized our family on the occasion of our fifth anniversary here at Clairmont Hills. I would like to say thanks for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Terry Stephens’ words to Cindy and me were very kind and gracious. (Terry is chairman of our Personnel Committee.) We have been truly blessed in our time here together with you, and we feel very much at home. Our prayer is that God would allow us to continue here together with you for the foreseeable future. We are happy to be here!
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
This past Sunday, September 13, we began our DiscipleLIFE Sermon Series with an overview of the discipleship process. What does a healthy disciple look like? He or she has balanced growth—head, heart, hands, and feet. In other words, a disciple LEARNS (head), a disciple LOVES (heart), a disciple SERVES (hands), and a disciple SHARES (feet). There are also stages of development: pre-birth, infant, growing, and mature. We will continue to flesh this out over the next six weeks in an effort to help you measure your progress as a follower of Jesus.
Where are you? Where do you want to be?
This coming week we address the starting point question: Are you really a disciple? Come hear a strong message based on the very words of Jesus.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
Our Finance Committee is challenging all those who have not lately been in the habit of tithing to try it for three months (September, October, November) in accordance with God’s encouragement to test Him in this matter. So far, the response has been great the first two weeks. Let’s continue to honor God with the first fruits of all that He gives us.
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes off to a great start!
We had more than 80 people involved in different classes for children, youth, and adults this past Sunday night. If you weren’t there, you can join up this Sunday! For adults, there are three choices:
A Life God Rewards, led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds, led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library.
The Chronicles of Narnia, led by me, meets in the Living Room. This class also welcomes the youth. This Sunday, come prepared to discuss The Magician’s Nephew.
And for Children…
Over twenty children were involved in His Kids, our children’s music time, beginning work on a Christmas musical, “Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure.” Our intern Lydia Pitts is leading His Kids this year, which also meets at 5:30 p.m.
Want more Bible for your children? Don’t forget at 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, children in grades 4-6 can come to Bible Drill.
Also at 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Goodybooks (Mrs. Helen) will have the Media Library open for story time for preschoolers and younger children.
Let me say it again: I am glad to be your pastor. Thanks again for five wonderful years.
God bless,
Fred O. Pitts, Pastor
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Thanks!!
This past Sunday, the church recognized our family on the occasion of our fifth anniversary here at Clairmont Hills. I would like to say thanks for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Terry Stephens’ words to Cindy and me were very kind and gracious. (Terry is chairman of our Personnel Committee.) We have been truly blessed in our time here together with you, and we feel very much at home. Our prayer is that God would allow us to continue here together with you for the foreseeable future. We are happy to be here!
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
This past Sunday, September 13, we began our DiscipleLIFE Sermon Series with an overview of the discipleship process. What does a healthy disciple look like? He or she has balanced growth—head, heart, hands, and feet. In other words, a disciple LEARNS (head), a disciple LOVES (heart), a disciple SERVES (hands), and a disciple SHARES (feet). There are also stages of development: pre-birth, infant, growing, and mature. We will continue to flesh this out over the next six weeks in an effort to help you measure your progress as a follower of Jesus.
Where are you? Where do you want to be?
This coming week we address the starting point question: Are you really a disciple? Come hear a strong message based on the very words of Jesus.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
Our Finance Committee is challenging all those who have not lately been in the habit of tithing to try it for three months (September, October, November) in accordance with God’s encouragement to test Him in this matter. So far, the response has been great the first two weeks. Let’s continue to honor God with the first fruits of all that He gives us.
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes off to a great start!
We had more than 80 people involved in different classes for children, youth, and adults this past Sunday night. If you weren’t there, you can join up this Sunday! For adults, there are three choices:
A Life God Rewards, led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds, led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library.
The Chronicles of Narnia, led by me, meets in the Living Room. This class also welcomes the youth. This Sunday, come prepared to discuss The Magician’s Nephew.
And for Children…
Over twenty children were involved in His Kids, our children’s music time, beginning work on a Christmas musical, “Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure.” Our intern Lydia Pitts is leading His Kids this year, which also meets at 5:30 p.m.
Want more Bible for your children? Don’t forget at 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, children in grades 4-6 can come to Bible Drill.
Also at 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Goodybooks (Mrs. Helen) will have the Media Library open for story time for preschoolers and younger children.
Let me say it again: I am glad to be your pastor. Thanks again for five wonderful years.
God bless,
Fred O. Pitts, Pastor
Monday, September 07, 2009
Ramblings--20090907
CHBC Ramblings
Monday, September 7, 2009
Yesterday
Labor Day Weekend is always a good end-of-summer opportunity for some to travel, but it has likewise become a treat for those who stick around. While attendance was somewhat down, as anticipated, our spirit for the day was great. Teresa Royall from the BCM (Baptist Collegiate Ministries) at Georgia State University shared about her work as part of the annual State Missions Emphasis each September. BCM was an important part of spiritual growth for both Cindy and me--in fact, we met through BCM (called BSU in those days). Both Hannah and Lydia in our family have likewise profited from BCM, and as Teresa shared on Sunday, Lydia will return to GSU each week this semester to teach a Bible study for students. As part of the State Missions emphasis there is the opportunity to make a special offering that helps support not only BCM work on campuses all over our state but also other ministries such as the planting of new churches, etc. We also got to hear from Laura Brown in song, the first time in a while we have had the blessing of her singing.
We completed a short series in the Psalms by looking at David’s Psalm 19, where he reminded us that God’s work in creation reveals His divine power and that God’s word reveals to us His purposes. We ended with the challenge of David’s prayer in conclusion, of which one of our members remarked afterwards, “I was thinking how hard it is to say this and mean it.” If you have never had a similar thought, perhaps you should slow down and read it again: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Yahweh, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Yesterday afternoon we had our second annual Labor Day Picnic at Mason Mill Park, and we had over 80 in attendance. Whether it was the softball, eating, football, eating, bocci ball, eating, walking, eating, or sitting around and talking, I think I am safe in saying we all had a great time. I know I did, and I am sure I will be reminded of it with soreness for a day or two. Thanks to the Fellowship Team for their work in all of this.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
September is here, so don’t forget our “90% for 90 Days” stewardship emphasis, in which our Finance Committee is challenging all those who do not tithe to try it for three months (September, October, November) in accordance with God’s encouragement to test Him in this matter.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
Beginning this coming Sunday, September 13, I be seeking to help all us evaluate where we are in our growth in following Jesus. Jesus says that He came to give us life, and we will find the most joy in that life when we are experiencing balanced, consistent growth. Come see how we will speak of this in terms of Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet. This DiscipleLIFE emphasis is designed to be a simple but useful tool in measuring your progress in your journey with Jesus, both now and in the future. It will not only be used in evaluation of our lives but the ministry of our church as a whole, including our Life Groups (Sunday School classes).
This would be a great opportunity for inviting a friend.
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes begin Sunday Night
Our fall program will resume in earnest this coming Sunday, and we will have three classes from which adults can choose:
A Life God Rewards
Led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel
An eight-week interactive Bible Study based on the book by best-selling author and teacher, Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. This in-depth study will explore startling statements Jesus made about our eternal future and students will learn how these surprising truths can dramatically change life for the better, now and forever. Each participant will receive a 64-page study guide, and each session will include a video segment by Bruce Wilkinson and group discussion.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds
Led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library
Based on the book by Beth Moore, Praying God’s Word is the perennial favorite Scripture-prayer resource designed to help us decisively overcome specific strongholds: pride, idolatry, addiction, loss, depression, unbelief, temptation, and more.
The Chronicles of Narnia
led by Pastor Fred Pitts, meets in the Living Room
This is an eight-week discussion of the seven children’s books by C. S. Lewis. Perhaps the best known of these is The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Why do I say that this set of books is my favorite of all for spiritual growth outside of the Bible? Come find out and discuss your own thoughts. We will read a book a week, which is easy because of their length. The first week will be an overview. If you need a set of books, let me know, and we can order you a set for $25, but we will have to do so this week! Send me an email to fred@clairmonthills.org by tomorrow (Tuesday). You may also find the series in libraries or at local bookstores in the children’s section.
And for Children…
On Sunday evening at 5:30, His Kids (children’s choir) will begin work on a Christmas musical, “Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure.” Many of the children have already previewed it and are already excited about its start. If you want your children involved, it would be good for them to be present the first week if at all possible.
At 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Sue Rother will once again lead out in Bible Drill. Do you want your children to become more familiar with the BIble as a whole and the main message of the Bible in particular? Talk to Sue for more about this opportunity.
Also at 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Goodybooks (Mrs. Helen) will have the Media Library open for story time for preschoolers.
I am glad to be your pastor. I look forward to seeing you Sunday. Have your Bible in one hand and the hand of a friend in the other!
God bless,
Fred O. Pitts
Monday, September 7, 2009
Yesterday
Labor Day Weekend is always a good end-of-summer opportunity for some to travel, but it has likewise become a treat for those who stick around. While attendance was somewhat down, as anticipated, our spirit for the day was great. Teresa Royall from the BCM (Baptist Collegiate Ministries) at Georgia State University shared about her work as part of the annual State Missions Emphasis each September. BCM was an important part of spiritual growth for both Cindy and me--in fact, we met through BCM (called BSU in those days). Both Hannah and Lydia in our family have likewise profited from BCM, and as Teresa shared on Sunday, Lydia will return to GSU each week this semester to teach a Bible study for students. As part of the State Missions emphasis there is the opportunity to make a special offering that helps support not only BCM work on campuses all over our state but also other ministries such as the planting of new churches, etc. We also got to hear from Laura Brown in song, the first time in a while we have had the blessing of her singing.
We completed a short series in the Psalms by looking at David’s Psalm 19, where he reminded us that God’s work in creation reveals His divine power and that God’s word reveals to us His purposes. We ended with the challenge of David’s prayer in conclusion, of which one of our members remarked afterwards, “I was thinking how hard it is to say this and mean it.” If you have never had a similar thought, perhaps you should slow down and read it again: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Yahweh, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Yesterday afternoon we had our second annual Labor Day Picnic at Mason Mill Park, and we had over 80 in attendance. Whether it was the softball, eating, football, eating, bocci ball, eating, walking, eating, or sitting around and talking, I think I am safe in saying we all had a great time. I know I did, and I am sure I will be reminded of it with soreness for a day or two. Thanks to the Fellowship Team for their work in all of this.
Live on 90% for 90 Days
September is here, so don’t forget our “90% for 90 Days” stewardship emphasis, in which our Finance Committee is challenging all those who do not tithe to try it for three months (September, October, November) in accordance with God’s encouragement to test Him in this matter.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
Beginning this coming Sunday, September 13, I be seeking to help all us evaluate where we are in our growth in following Jesus. Jesus says that He came to give us life, and we will find the most joy in that life when we are experiencing balanced, consistent growth. Come see how we will speak of this in terms of Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet. This DiscipleLIFE emphasis is designed to be a simple but useful tool in measuring your progress in your journey with Jesus, both now and in the future. It will not only be used in evaluation of our lives but the ministry of our church as a whole, including our Life Groups (Sunday School classes).
This would be a great opportunity for inviting a friend.
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes begin Sunday Night
Our fall program will resume in earnest this coming Sunday, and we will have three classes from which adults can choose:
A Life God Rewards
Led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel
An eight-week interactive Bible Study based on the book by best-selling author and teacher, Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. This in-depth study will explore startling statements Jesus made about our eternal future and students will learn how these surprising truths can dramatically change life for the better, now and forever. Each participant will receive a 64-page study guide, and each session will include a video segment by Bruce Wilkinson and group discussion.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds
Led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library
Based on the book by Beth Moore, Praying God’s Word is the perennial favorite Scripture-prayer resource designed to help us decisively overcome specific strongholds: pride, idolatry, addiction, loss, depression, unbelief, temptation, and more.
The Chronicles of Narnia
led by Pastor Fred Pitts, meets in the Living Room
This is an eight-week discussion of the seven children’s books by C. S. Lewis. Perhaps the best known of these is The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Why do I say that this set of books is my favorite of all for spiritual growth outside of the Bible? Come find out and discuss your own thoughts. We will read a book a week, which is easy because of their length. The first week will be an overview. If you need a set of books, let me know, and we can order you a set for $25, but we will have to do so this week! Send me an email to fred@clairmonthills.org by tomorrow (Tuesday). You may also find the series in libraries or at local bookstores in the children’s section.
And for Children…
On Sunday evening at 5:30, His Kids (children’s choir) will begin work on a Christmas musical, “Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure.” Many of the children have already previewed it and are already excited about its start. If you want your children involved, it would be good for them to be present the first week if at all possible.
At 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Sue Rother will once again lead out in Bible Drill. Do you want your children to become more familiar with the BIble as a whole and the main message of the Bible in particular? Talk to Sue for more about this opportunity.
Also at 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Goodybooks (Mrs. Helen) will have the Media Library open for story time for preschoolers.
I am glad to be your pastor. I look forward to seeing you Sunday. Have your Bible in one hand and the hand of a friend in the other!
God bless,
Fred O. Pitts
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Ramblings--20090901
CHBC Ramblings
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
This Past Week
Even with my faux pas of announcing last week that my sermon would be entitled “Money Matters,” we had a good crowd of over 180 in worship. I was very encouraged by all of you who told me how inspiring the entire service was. A big part of that was the testimony shared by Philip Karl, the chairman of our Finance Committee. He shared his ups and downs in life and how God has always been with him, never leaving him nor forsaking him. He did know that verse would be part of the passage I would be preaching from, but it was another reminder to me of that very truth: He is always with us. While the message included some explanation of what the Bible teaches about tithing, the scope of the message was far broader—how God wants us to view and handle money in general. He is not just interested in the portion in the offering plate; God wants to show each of us how to be wise in the way we live our entire lives and the key to it all is finding our securing in God, not in money. I hope that all of us will commit, as the Finance Committee has challenged us, to live on 90% for 90 days so that we might observe God’s faithfulness to us as a church.
Sunday night featured “An Evening of Hymns,” and for those who were here, it was a wonderful time of worship. For this particular service, I selected eleven that are among my favorite hymns in four categories: Hymns of Praise, Hymns of the Word, Hymns of Testimony and Faith, and Hymns of the Gospel (Death, Resurrection, Eternal Life). I shared why each was among my favorites and what each hymn has contributed to my own faith. We will do this again; maybe next time you can pick the hymns!
This Coming Sunday
Except for this past Sunday’s message to kick off our “90% for 90 Days” stewardship emphasis, I have been preaching throughout August on some of the psalms. I will conclude that series this Sunday with a look at Psalm 19 as we consider “God’s Work and God’s Word.”
Also Sunday morning, we will welcome Teresa Royall, one of the campus ministers at Georgia State University, who will share a brief testimony of her work. Each September, we take a special offering for State Missions, and the emphasis this year is on Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM). I have known Teresa for many years, and BCM—or BSU, for those of us who knew it by the older Baptist Student Union name—was for me a great catalyst for spiritual growth during my college years. Please consider giving a bit extra sometime in September to this State Missions Offering.
Church Picnic Sunday Afternoon
This weekend is also Labor Day weekend, and we will be enjoying our second annual Church Picnic at Mason Mill Park from 4-8. Come any time and stay as long as you like, but we will eat at 6:00 p.m. The church will provide the burgers and dogs; please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Bring a ball glove or a game if you like; don’t forget a folding chair, either. We will have use of the pavilion as last year. Let’s have a good time of fellowship together.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
Beginning September 13, I be seeking to help all us evaluate where we are in our growth in following Jesus. Jesus says that He came to give us life, and we will find the most joy in that life when we are experiencing balanced, consistent growth. Come see how we will speak of this in terms of Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet. This DiscipleLIFE emphasis is designed to be a simple but useful tool in measuring your progress in your journey with Jesus, both now and in the future. It will not only be used in evaluation of our lives but the ministry of our church as a whole, including our Life Groups (Sunday School classes).
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes begin September 13
Our fall program will resume in earnest the week after Labor Day weekend, and we will have three classes from which adults can choose:
A Life God Rewards
Led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel
An eight-week interactive Bible Study based on the book by best-selling author and teacher, Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. This in-depth study will explore startling statements Jesus made about our eternal future and students will learn how these surprising truths can dramatically change life for the better, now and forever. Each participant will receive a 64-page study guide, and each session will include a video segment by Bruce Wilkinson and group discussion.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds
Led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library
Based on the book by Beth Moore, Praying God’s Word is the perennial favorite Scripture-prayer resource designed to help us decisively overcome specific strongholds: pride, idolatry, addiction, loss, depression, unbelief, temptation, and more.
The Chronicles of Narnia
led by Pastor Fred Pitts, meets in the Living Room
This is an eight-week discussion of the seven children’s books by C. S. Lewis. Perhaps the best known of these is The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Why do I say that this set of books is my favorite of all for spiritual growth outside of the Bible? Come read and discuss. We will read a book a week, which is easy because of their length. The first week will be an overview. If you need a set of books, let me know, and we can order you a set for $25, but we will have to do so this week!
And for Children…
On Sunday evenings at 5:30, His Kids (children’s choir) will begin work on a Christmas musical, “Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure.” Many of the children have already previewed it and are already excited about its start. If you want your child involved, make sure they come on the 13th.
At 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Sue Rother will once again lead out in Bible Drill. Do you want your children to become more familiar with the BIble as a whole and the main message of the Bible in particular? Talk to Sue for more about this opportunity.
Don’t forget also that we have Wednesday night Children in Action (CiA) at 6:00 p.m. Come on at 5:30 for the Fellowship Meal, but don’t forget to make a reservation.
My daughter Lydia is starting a year as a volunteer Children’s Intern this month, and she will be leading His Kids and CiA.
Whew! That’s a lot of Rambling for one week, and I am sure I could have added more. Congratulations to those of you who made it all the way to the end!
God bless,
Fred O. Pitts
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
This Past Week
Even with my faux pas of announcing last week that my sermon would be entitled “Money Matters,” we had a good crowd of over 180 in worship. I was very encouraged by all of you who told me how inspiring the entire service was. A big part of that was the testimony shared by Philip Karl, the chairman of our Finance Committee. He shared his ups and downs in life and how God has always been with him, never leaving him nor forsaking him. He did know that verse would be part of the passage I would be preaching from, but it was another reminder to me of that very truth: He is always with us. While the message included some explanation of what the Bible teaches about tithing, the scope of the message was far broader—how God wants us to view and handle money in general. He is not just interested in the portion in the offering plate; God wants to show each of us how to be wise in the way we live our entire lives and the key to it all is finding our securing in God, not in money. I hope that all of us will commit, as the Finance Committee has challenged us, to live on 90% for 90 days so that we might observe God’s faithfulness to us as a church.
Sunday night featured “An Evening of Hymns,” and for those who were here, it was a wonderful time of worship. For this particular service, I selected eleven that are among my favorite hymns in four categories: Hymns of Praise, Hymns of the Word, Hymns of Testimony and Faith, and Hymns of the Gospel (Death, Resurrection, Eternal Life). I shared why each was among my favorites and what each hymn has contributed to my own faith. We will do this again; maybe next time you can pick the hymns!
This Coming Sunday
Except for this past Sunday’s message to kick off our “90% for 90 Days” stewardship emphasis, I have been preaching throughout August on some of the psalms. I will conclude that series this Sunday with a look at Psalm 19 as we consider “God’s Work and God’s Word.”
Also Sunday morning, we will welcome Teresa Royall, one of the campus ministers at Georgia State University, who will share a brief testimony of her work. Each September, we take a special offering for State Missions, and the emphasis this year is on Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM). I have known Teresa for many years, and BCM—or BSU, for those of us who knew it by the older Baptist Student Union name—was for me a great catalyst for spiritual growth during my college years. Please consider giving a bit extra sometime in September to this State Missions Offering.
Church Picnic Sunday Afternoon
This weekend is also Labor Day weekend, and we will be enjoying our second annual Church Picnic at Mason Mill Park from 4-8. Come any time and stay as long as you like, but we will eat at 6:00 p.m. The church will provide the burgers and dogs; please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Bring a ball glove or a game if you like; don’t forget a folding chair, either. We will have use of the pavilion as last year. Let’s have a good time of fellowship together.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet
Beginning September 13, I be seeking to help all us evaluate where we are in our growth in following Jesus. Jesus says that He came to give us life, and we will find the most joy in that life when we are experiencing balanced, consistent growth. Come see how we will speak of this in terms of Head, Heart, Hands, and Feet. This DiscipleLIFE emphasis is designed to be a simple but useful tool in measuring your progress in your journey with Jesus, both now and in the future. It will not only be used in evaluation of our lives but the ministry of our church as a whole, including our Life Groups (Sunday School classes).
Sunday Night DiscipleLIFE classes begin September 13
Our fall program will resume in earnest the week after Labor Day weekend, and we will have three classes from which adults can choose:
A Life God Rewards
Led by Steve Powell, meets in the Chapel
An eight-week interactive Bible Study based on the book by best-selling author and teacher, Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. This in-depth study will explore startling statements Jesus made about our eternal future and students will learn how these surprising truths can dramatically change life for the better, now and forever. Each participant will receive a 64-page study guide, and each session will include a video segment by Bruce Wilkinson and group discussion.
Praying God's Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds
Led by Ruth McClain, meets in the Media Library
Based on the book by Beth Moore, Praying God’s Word is the perennial favorite Scripture-prayer resource designed to help us decisively overcome specific strongholds: pride, idolatry, addiction, loss, depression, unbelief, temptation, and more.
The Chronicles of Narnia
led by Pastor Fred Pitts, meets in the Living Room
This is an eight-week discussion of the seven children’s books by C. S. Lewis. Perhaps the best known of these is The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Why do I say that this set of books is my favorite of all for spiritual growth outside of the Bible? Come read and discuss. We will read a book a week, which is easy because of their length. The first week will be an overview. If you need a set of books, let me know, and we can order you a set for $25, but we will have to do so this week!
And for Children…
On Sunday evenings at 5:30, His Kids (children’s choir) will begin work on a Christmas musical, “Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure.” Many of the children have already previewed it and are already excited about its start. If you want your child involved, make sure they come on the 13th.
At 4:30 on Sunday afternoons, Sue Rother will once again lead out in Bible Drill. Do you want your children to become more familiar with the BIble as a whole and the main message of the Bible in particular? Talk to Sue for more about this opportunity.
Don’t forget also that we have Wednesday night Children in Action (CiA) at 6:00 p.m. Come on at 5:30 for the Fellowship Meal, but don’t forget to make a reservation.
My daughter Lydia is starting a year as a volunteer Children’s Intern this month, and she will be leading His Kids and CiA.
Whew! That’s a lot of Rambling for one week, and I am sure I could have added more. Congratulations to those of you who made it all the way to the end!
God bless,
Fred O. Pitts
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