James 1:2-3 (NIV) Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever What to do you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your ►► faith produces perseverance... Counter the thought. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NLT) Remember the temptations that come Colossians 2:1-7 (ESV) For I want you to know how great a struggle into your life are no different from what others experience. I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being ►► Understand your . knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of weakness 1 Peter 5:8 (CEV) Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say to attack. this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see ►► Call on . your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. Therefore, as Jesus you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Hebrews 4:16 (NIV) Let us then approach God’s throne of grace Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to thanksgiving. help us in our time of need.
1. Growth involves struggle. 2. Growth involves focus. Colossians 2:1 (ESV) For I want you to know how great a struggle Colossians 2:4 (ESV) I say this in order that no one may delude you I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not with plausible arguments. seen me face to face... 4 thoughts on focus Colossians 1:28 (ESV) ...to present everyone mature in Christ. ►► Focus on your . Romans 8:29 (NIV) For those God foreknew He also predestined to strengths be conformed to the image of His Son... ►► Focus on today. James 1:12 (LB) Happy is the man who doesn’t give in and do wrong Matthew 6:34 (NCV) "So don’t worry about tomorrow, because when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the tomorrow will have its own worries. Each day has enough trouble crown of life that God has promised those who love Him. of its own." 2 Corinthians 2:11 (NLT) ...we are very familiar with his evil schemes. ►► Focus on the process. How Temptation Works ►► Focus on your priorities. ►► Desire 3. Growth involves gratitude. Colossians 2:7 (ESV) ...rooted and built up in him and established in ►► Doubt the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Hebrews 3:12 (CEV) My friends, watch out! Don’t let evil thoughts or ►► Grateful people learn to think daily about doubts make any of you turn from the living God. life’s blessings. ►► Deception ►► Grateful people learn to love those Genesis 3:1-5 (CEV) The snake was sneakier than any of the other wild animals that the Lord God had made... "He told us not to eat around them. fruit from that tree or even to touch it. If we do, we will die.” “No, you Philippians 1:3 (NLT) Every time I think of you, I give thanks to won’t!” the snake replied. “God understands what will happen on my God. the day you eat fruit from that tree. You will see what you have done, and you will know the difference between right and wrong, just as ►► Grateful people learn to live in the present. God does.” ►► Disobedience LADIES DISCIPLESHIP with Lynnette Kozer Starts February 4 , 6:30 pm 13 Legacy Drive Granite City IL, 62040 Contact Lynette @ 618-781-2744
BEGINS FEB 29/MAR 1, 2020 Small Group Leaders Needed!
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Haiti Collections for February The Guesthouse & House of Hope and Joy • Peanut Butter • Deodorant (full-size) • Bar Soap • Nuts • Toothpaste (travel & full size) • Jerky • Toothbrushes • Summer Sausage Please place donations in gray bins in the lobby. Need more info? Melanye @ 618.709.8542
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PhilippinesJan. 28Mission – Feb. 18 Team
NEW! Sundays during the 11 am service, children K-5th will join the adult service during Praise & Worship!