With Contributions By

by Dr. Randy T. Johnson with contributions by:

ROGER ALLEN BRYAN FOX PAT MACDERMAID NOBLE BAIRD DONNA FOX JAMES MANN PAT BEDELL MICHAEL FOX WES MCCULLOUGH HOLLY BOSTON DEBBIE GABBARA MARK O'CONNOR JOHN CARTER LARRY GABBARA JILL OSMON JAMES CLOUSE DANIELLE HARDENBURG KEN PERRY CAROLE COMBS SUE HARRINGTON PHILIP PIASECKI ISAIAH COMBS RICHIE HENSON MAX SINCLAIR JEN COMBS KENNY HOVIS RYAN STORY SIERRA COMBS JOHN HUBBARD HOLLY WELLS MATTHEW DARDEN DEBBIE KERR KYLE WENDEL BRETT EBERLE JOSH LAHRING KATRINA YOUNG

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the written permission of The River Church. Inquiries should be sent to the publisher.

First Edition, May 2018

Published by: The River Church 8393 E. Holly Rd. Holly, MI 48442

Scriptures are taken from the Bible, English Standard Version (ESV)

Printed in the United States of America

CONTENTS

WEEK 1 WEEK 2

WONDERFUL COUNSELOR MIGHTY GOD 09 Study Guide 31 Study Guide

17 Devotion 1: Wonder 37 Devotion 1: Having Complete Power

19 Devotion 2: Courtroom of Life 39 Devotion 2: Letters to the Next One

21 Devotion 3: God's Job Description 41 Devotion 3: El Gibbor

23 Devotion 4: Incomprehensible 43 Devotion 4: Can I Fix it?

25 Devotion 5: Wonderful Christmastime 45 Devotion 5: How Mighty is Your God?

27 Devotion 6: Letters to the Next One 47 Devotion 6: Mighty to Save

WEEK 3 WEEK 4

EVERLASTING FATHER PRINCE OF PEACE

51 Study Guide 71 Study Guide

57 Devotion 1: Father of All 79 Devotion 1: Jordan

59 Devotion 2: Never Leave Nor Forsake 83 Devotion 2: A Peaceful Season

61 Devotion 3: “Daddy” 85 Devotion 3: Irony

63 Devotion 4: Father of Eternity 87 Devotion 4: Letters to the Next One

65 Devotion 5: Letters to the Next One 89 Devotion 5: Endless

67 Devotion 6: Compassion 91 Devotion 6: Peace and Glory WEEK 5 WEEK 6

IMMANUEL REACH 95 Study Guide 117 Study Guide

103 Devotion 1: Anticipation 123 Devotion 1: Live a Legacy

105 Devotion 2: Expect His Presence 125 Devotion 2: Connect

107 Devotion 3: Still with Us 127 Devotion 3: Keep Reaching

109 Devotion 4: With us is God 129 Devotion 4: FAM•I•LY

111 Devotion 5: Letters to the Next One 133 Devotion 5: Phony Joy

113 Devotion 6: Patience 135 Devotion 6: The “End” Zone

WEEK 7 WEEK 8

GATHER GROW

139 Study Guide 163 Study Guide

145 Devotion 1: To Go or Not to Go? 169 Devotion 1: Strength Over Swayed

149 Devotion 2: Recovering the Value 171 Devotion 2: Branching Out in Faith of Gathering 173 Devotion 3: Love Brings Growth 151 Devotion 3: Why? 175 Devotion 4: Got Word? 153 Devotion 4: Be Known 177 Devotion 5: Walk this Way 155 Devotion 5: What is in a Name? 179 Devotion 6: Get Up and Grow 159 Devotion 6: Not Forsaking

WEEK 9

BACK TO REACH

183 Study Guide

191 Devotion 1: Action and Obedience

193 Devotion 2: Martha and Mary

195 Devotion 3: Serving

197 Devotion 4: Going to Work

199 Devotion 5: Step Four

201 Devotion 6: Toilet

PREFACE

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

“There are two hundred and fifty-six names given in the Bible for the Lord Jesus Christ, and I suppose this was because He was infinitely beyond all that any one name could express.” Billy Sunday 01 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 1 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR

enjoy watching the television show Shark Tank. One of the “sharks” has given himself the nickname “Mr. Wonderful.” Self-imposed nicknames do not count, and it is clear from his co-hosts that he Iis not viewed that way by them.

What nicknames have you had? ______

One of the names given of the Messiah (Jesus) is “Wonderful Counselor.” Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Jesus was and is wonderful. He is extraordinary, exceptional, and distinguished. Scripture records numerous times of Him being miraculous. He gave sight to the blind, the lame walked, and He even raised the dead back to life. He is the real “Mr. Wonderful.”

Years before Isaiah called the Messiah the “Wonderful Counselor,” Jesus appeared as “the angel of the Lord” to Samson’s dad, Manoah. Judges 13:18 records an insightful conversation, “And the angel of the Lord said to him, ‘Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?’” Whether you call Him the Messiah, the angel of the Lord, or Jesus, He is wonderful!

What is a “Christophany?” ______

Jesus has existed forever, and He appeared at times even before He was “born.” That is amazing, awesome, and wonderful.

9 LESSON 1 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR

He not only possesses the trait of being wonderful, but His skill combines with His skill of counseling. He gives wise advice, helps those contemplating as they make plans, and gives counsel. We need to listen to this authoritative One. He knows the future and what is best for us. He is the “Wonderful Counselor.”

What thoughts come to mind when you think of Jesus as the “Wonderful Counselor?” ______

One of the best scenarios I obtained through my counseling classes, was to ask three questions.

1. What is the problem?

The first question sounds pretty basic, “What is the problem?” However, it often is not what the individual thinks. A person struggling with depression might be able to help their emotional well-being through routine exercise, a proper diet, and some sound sleep (I am not saying this will solve all depression, and I am not anti-medication). They are saying the problem is depression, but it is really life choices.

What are some examples where you have heard someone describe their problem, but you know it has deeper roots? ______

The Bible describes man’s biggest problem – sin. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Not only is sin the problem, but it gets worse. Romans 6:23 adds, “For

10 LESSON 1 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Sin is the problem, and it leads to death, Hell, and the Lake of Fire. Fortunately, “Christ Jesus our Lord” is the “Wonderful Counselor.” He not only revealed the problem, but He also provided the solution in Himself. Romans 5:8 says, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus not only knows the cure; He is the cure. He died for us. Finally, Romans 10:13 says, “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Salvation comes from Jesus alone!

Charles Spurgeon said it so well, “I have a great need for Christ; I have a great Christ for my need.”

The problem might appear as a poor self-image; the cure is found in Jesus. The problem might appear as fear; the cure is found in Jesus. The problem might appear as anger or hatred; the cure is found in Jesus. The problem does not matter as much as the cure being the “Wonderful Counselor.”

What struggle have you had that the “Wonderful Counselor” cured? ______

2. What have you done about it?

I used to ask about the problem and then immediately tried to solve it. I have learned that there are times when my wife or children just need support and a sounding board. It is not much different as a counselor. I am learning not to immediately jump in with advice.

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This second question is so important, “What have you done about it?” They need to take some ownership of their life and growth.

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Paul boldly states that he can be victorious in life through the power of Jesus Christ. This is true of all believers. If they have given their lives to Jesus, then the Holy Spirit dwells within them. They can move from victim to victorious!

Do you tend to immediately try to solve the problems of others? ______

How can it be wrong for us to immediately try to be the solution for someone else’s problem? ______

David knew his spiritual, physical, and emotional strength came from the Lord. He wrote in Psalm 16:7 saying, “I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.” David needed direction, and He found it in the Lord.

Where do you first go to when you need counseling? ______

David found counsel in the Lord. His son, Solomon, also knew He wanted the wisdom and counsel that only God could supply. He wrote in Proverbs 8:14, “I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength.” I love the confidence that jumps off the page as he boldly proclaims what he has in the Lord.

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James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

What does this passage say about counseling? ______

What is promised in this passage? ______

Finally, Romans 11:33-34 reminds us of what we have in Jesus, “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! ‘For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?’”

3. What do you need from me?

After we decipher what the actual problem is and we empower them in the Lord, then it is time for us to find out how we fit into the solution. Scripture does not reprimand people for seeking counsel from others.

Proverbs 15:22 says, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” It is wise to approach wise counsel from those who live in righteousness.

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How can others help us in counseling? ______

As counselors, we need to remember that our main objective is to point people to the Lord. Colossians 2:3 reminds us Jesus is the treasure chest, “In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

How can we help others in counseling? ______

Jesus is the “Wonderful Counselor.” Isaiah stated it in Isaiah 9:6 and reiterated it later, “This also comes from the Lord of hosts; he is wonderful in counsel and excellent in wisdom” (Isaiah 28:29).

Knowing Jesus is the “Wonderful Counselor,” how should that affect our life? ______

“You don’t realize Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have.” Tim Keller

14 LESSON 1 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR

15 LESSON 1 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR

16 WONDER

WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, DEVOTION 1

Richie Henson | Production Director

y son is growing up very differently than I did. I grew up in the California sun, a true beach bum. However, my son has only known the frozen tundra and boat life of Michigan. MThe other day, I showed my son some videos of people surfing in the Pacific Ocean. He was utterly blown away and full of true wonder. The images were so unknown to him that he could scarcely believe them to be real.

Our society struggles to understand this sense of wonder that my son expressed. We are so overloaded with content, that we no longer possess the ability to be blown away by something. I think there are times where we struggle to understand God because we struggle to be in wonder of Him. We struggle to be overwhelmed by the extraordinary nature of God. We fail to see that God is so beyond us, we struggle to even behold His goodness.

That being said, I think it makes it difficult for us to understand Jesus as Wonderful Counselor. When I hear this name, I am drawn to think of a consultant who is giving you advice on a decision you are trying to make. However, this name of Jesus goes so far beyond this understanding.

Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Jesus has knowledge that is so far beyond our comprehension. It is so wonderful, and perfect that we cannot even perceive it. I think

17 LESSON 1 DEVOTION 1

there are times when we wait until we are in dire straights before we seek the counsel of Jesus, but in reality, Jesus’ counsel is all that we need. If we would commit ourselves to seeking the counsel of Jesus first, I believe we would begin to understand the sense of wonder that comes from hearing the words of Jesus. I believe that we would be so blown away, that it would leave us speechless.

This holiday season, as we think about the life of Jesus, let us all consider His words as our counsel knowing that we will be filled with wonder as we see Their good counsel.

18 COURTROOM OF LIFE

WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, DEVOTION 2

Philip Piasecki | Worship Leader

hile I was in college, I held a lot of interesting jobs. I worked at a daycare for a couple of years, running around with the four and five-year-old kids. Then I got Wa job at a doctor's office as a Specimen Processor (running tests on blood), which I was not qualified to do. Lastly, I worked at the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office as a student worker. This job was incredibly interesting as I got to see the inner workings of the judicial system. One of my jobs was to put together case files of arrests from the night before. I saw some really interesting things, also some pretty brutal and sad things. The most nerve-racking part of the job was when we would have to run files over to the courthouse. I would have to walk into a courtroom while a trial was taking place, and give the file to the prosecutor that needed it. I would get to see the defendant's legal counsel giving them advice on what to answer, how to proceed, and what to say to the judge. Thinking back on these courtroom scenes, I cannot help but think about Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor.

The courtroom scene may be a bit dramatic, but we all find ourselves in situations where we are looking for counsel. The question is, where and who are we looking to for this advice? I think of the story of Job, and how he looked to his friends for counsel, and they gave him terrible advice. I have seen many Christians slowly fall away from Christ because they continue to follow ungodly counsel in their lives. Jesus Christ, He is the Wonderful Counselor, He is the one that we need to be looking towards every day in our lives. I know that many times in the heat of the moment, we are faced with making decisions quickly. We may not have time to stop, pray about

19 LESSON 1 DEVOTION 2

a decision, and then make that decision. This is why we need to be asking Christ for wisdom every day.

James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

I think we can all acknowledge that we lack wisdom. Luckily for all of us, God gives wisdom generously to all who just ask! Our Wonderful Counselor will give us the wisdom that we need to make Godly decisions in any situation that we may face. Think twice before you seek worldly counsel, and seek counsel from the Wonderful Counselor.

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WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, DEVOTION 3

Debbie Kerr | Office Administrator

an you recall the best Christmas gift you ever received? I mean, can you think of the one that made you squeal with delight? This time of year we are inundated with television Ccommercials for the latest and greatest products. The stores start announcing their door buster sales in early November. Black Friday now begins on Thanksgiving Day before your turkey has had a chance to digest. We can hardly wait to score the hottest ticket items for the best price! We stress and over schedule ourselves throughout December to make our holiday one to remember. If we are honest, we run ourselves ragged as if it is our job to make everyone on our list happy. When we put our hope in the commercialism of Christmas, we can almost guarantee disappointment and serious debt. If we can set aside the hustle and bustle of the season and focus on the true meaning of Christmas, it can be “the most wonderful time of the year!” However, it can also be one of the most difficult times of the year that can bring depression, heartache, loneliness, and pain.

Do you suppose it is a coincidence that the most difficult time of the year is also the same wonderful season we celebrate the greatest Gift of all, the birth of the Savior of the world? He is Immanuel, God with us! God in His abundant love and mercy sent His Only Son not just to save us from our sins but to also save us from ourselves! The prophet Isaiah foretold hundreds of years before Christ’s birth the titles of Jesus, given to Him by the Father. One of the amazing titles and positions He possesses is our Wonderful Counselor. He is called Wonderful, or full of wonder! He is amazing, astonishing, awesome, and miraculous! If He is a miracle working Counselor, then sign me up! He understands what our words cannot adequately articulate,

21 LESSON 1 DEVOTION 3

counsels us in our decisions, and guides the best direction in life. In every season of life, He is there, ready to give us the counsel and wisdom that we need. He heals us from the inside out! Isaiah 61:1-3 (NKJV) gives us Jesus’ job description as our Wonderful Counselor.

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.” Isaiah 61:1-3 (NKJV)

God also uses earthly counselors as a very real source of comfort and help. There is no shame in counseling with a good Christian counselor, one who knows Jesus does the healing and will point us to His Word and His ways. Always remember that no one understands like Jesus.

Have you made your appointment with the Wonderful Counselor? Maybe a good God counseling session is in order?

22 INCOMPREHENSIBLE

WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, DEVOTION 4

Holly Wells | Assistant to Lead Pastor Jim Combs

e have all sought counsel from our family, a friend, a mentor, a pastor, or even a co-worker. I also believe that over time we have received advice from sources which Whas run the gamut from wisdom to destruction. With nearly half of American households seeking therapy these days, we cannot help but wonder, “who are these counselors?” Whether professional or personal, who do we allow to speak into our lives? What or who determines their position? Is it the designations that follow after their name suggesting their level of intellect and qualification that impress you? How do you decide who to trust with your heart, fears, struggles, pain, questions, conflict, and decisions? Do you go to those who will tell you what you want to hear? Will it be worldly advice that will lead you astray with, “As long as you are happy, that is all that matters,” or will it be someone of moral integrity who will give you instruction and truth from the Word of God?

I do not know about you, but receiving truth – not truth of one’s opinion but truth according to God – is of utmost importance to me. Sometimes receiving God's truth might hurt because I need correction or rebuke. But despite the pain, embarrassment, or disappointment, I never want anything to come between the Lord and me. God loves me more than anyone ever will, and He demonstrated this by sending Jesus, born of a woman, subject to the law to buy us freedom from the law so that He could adopt us as His children (Galatians 4:4-5).

“The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.” Isaiah 11:2 (NKJV)

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Jesus is fully God and fully man, holy, and matchless (John 1:14; 10:38; Philippians 2:9). Jesus gave up His divinity to take on humanity (Philippians 2:6-7). Jesus was Teacher (Matthew chapter 5), Healer (Matthew 9:1-8), Restorer (John 21:15-19), Provider (John 6:1-14), Defender (John 8:1-11), Giver of Life (John 10:10), and Interceder (Romans 8:34). The list goes on and on! Jesus faced temptations and trials, yet He never wavered and never sinned (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:20-30; Hebrews 4:15). Jesus laid down His life for us (John 3:16-17; 15:13). I have never known anyone greater to trust and walk with me through life!

Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor! Make no mistake of the true meaning of “Wonderful.” Today, we might use awesome, amazing, delightful, or spectacular as common words to describe “wonderful.” But the original Hebrew meaning of “Wonderful” is “incomprehensible” and the original context of “Counselor” refers to a wise king. When we understand the correct meaning of Wonderful Counselor and learn about Him from the Word, not only does it deepen the understanding of Who Jesus is, but it gives us a clearer picture of why we should seek Him above all others. Jesus is the Incomprehensible Wise King!

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WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, DEVOTION 5

Noble Baird | Community Center Director

hristmas is always an exciting time of year. Being in Michigan, we are blessed with all four seasons, two of which are usually filled with snow! For those of you who know me, CI love music. One of the greatest privileges I have ever received is being able to worship on the worship team at church together with my wife, Haley. Growing up, my father and I have always listened to The Beatles. Sadly, my wife does not share the same love for them as my father and I do, but there is still time! In 1979, Paul McCartney wrote a song titled, “Wonderful Christmastime.” It is a song about coming together during Christmas and simply enjoying the wonderful season together.

By definition, “wonderful” means “to be excited.” In Matthew 1:20- 25, we have the account of Joseph’s interaction with an angel of the Lord. Matthew writes, “But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.” There is no doubt that this time in Joseph’s life was scary, frightful, painful, then exciting and truly wonderful all at the same time! He finds his fiancé, Mary, pregnant. Then, he decides

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to end the engagement quietly; however, that is when God steps in, and he is given the wonderful news about Jesus.

The name “Wonderful Counselor” is only recorded once, in Isaiah 9:6. When we look at this account of the Christmas season, there is no doubt that it is truly a wonderful time! Joseph's heartbreak was turned into exciting news about the truly wonderful Savior that was prophesied about for centuries! As we continue in this Christmas season, maybe you will even hear “Wonderful Christmastime” on the radio, I challenge you to take a step back and remember the truly wonderful season it is. Also, remember the Wonderful Counselor whose birth we celebrate during this time.

26 LETTERS TO THE NEXT ONE

WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, DEVOTION 6

Ryan Story | Student Pastor

or the prophet Isaiah, or any of the prophets for that matter, to prophesy that Jesus was coming has the same significances F as me writing to my next child. To immerse myself in how the prophets of old must have felt, this month I will be writing to a child that I do not know. My wife and I have not even begun talking about another child, but to understand how amazing the first coming of Christ was, we must understand that people were writing about a person who they did not know. I am writing theses devotionals November of 2017, and I am eager to read these December of 2018.

Dear Child,

There will never be a point in your life when I will not be here to give you godly advice. As long as I have breath in my lungs, I will not cease to help you in life. I want to see you be victorious over anything the enemy throws at you. I want you to run towards God with such a purpose you shed any weight that is slowing you down. I want to see you prosper in whatever Jesus has planned for you. I get overly excited even thinking about how amazing you are going to be, and I do not even know your name, gender, or when you will be here.

I have lived a life of making too many unwise choices that I will do anything to make sure you do not go through the same pains as I have. I have sat back and watched myself and many people who I have deeply loved make choices that are void of any wisdom. Ironically, James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it

27 LESSON 1 DEVOTION 6

will be given him.” My hope for your life is you learn how to keep wisdom as the cornerstone of your walk with God. I have lived a life where I did not try to seek out becoming wise until I was older. I do not wish that upon any of my children. Learn to plead with God for wisdom because He will give it to you. Make sure you use that wisdom to help others because that is what God will want to see. Gifts are only good when you share them.

Grow up in such a way that you realize how much more you will be able to do for God if you seek out wisdom. There will be a point in your life when someone is going to come to you and need advice. I pray you are able to take a page out of Jesus’ book and be able to counsel them. We live in such a world that needs more people to have godly wisdom. The church has many smart followers, but few wise leaders, and I want you to be wise beyond your years.

In Isaiah, one of the names used to foretell about His coming is “Wonderful Counselor.” I pray that you run, plead, and are relentless in your pursuit of wisdom. Instead of asking God “why is this happening,” learn to ask, “why is this best for my life?” Instead of being caught off guard by any rough times, be wise enough to know He is in control. Know that at any moment in your life, you know you can turn to a God that has your tomorrow already worked out. Never be too proud to ask for help.

Never be too lazy to pray.

Never be too busy to help those God puts in your life.

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29 02

MIGHTY GOD

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 2 MIGHTY GOD

y niece and her husband have triplets, identical twin boys and a girl. They are four and full of energy. When you tease with one, you get all three. Recently, I asked Erika if my hair Mwas curlier than hers. She exclaimed, “You do not have any hair!” I acted astonished as I grabbed my bald scalp. I then pretended to cut her hair and both boys with my fingers. She boldly announced that she had a superpower. Her amazing power was to grow her hair back quickly.

What super power would you like to have? ______

Superheroes have been introduced with all kinds of powers: Teleportation, invisibility, flight, x-ray vision, time travel, and superhuman strength. Isaiah 9:6 introduces us to the greatest “superhero” of all time, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

He is the “Mighty God.” It can be translated as “God is mighty” or “God is a mighty warrior.”

1. The Mighty God is a warrior.

This child (Jesus) is called a Mighty God. He was and is a warrior. He is not a wimp. Psalm 24:8 says, “Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle!” David repeats himself to make sure his point is clear. He uses a question to emphasize his point. The Lord is mighty. He is a battle-tested warrior.

31 LESSON 2 MIGHTY GOD

Psalm 147:5 adds, “Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.” Power and understanding are a great combination. He knows what to do and has the power to back it up.

What are some examples that show Jesus as a warrior? ______

Isaiah 64:8 points out that the Lord created us, “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Scripture repeatedly points out that God created us. He created something from nothing.

Isaiah 40:28 adds, “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.” Again, we have questions used to get our attention. The Lord is powerful and does not wear down. He just keeps going, and going, and going.

How is this passage comforting and challenging to us? ______

Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”

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How does the Lord use His mighty power? ______

Do you believe we are called to be warriors? If so, how? ______

“Jesus is the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5) and the Lamb of God (Revelation 5:6) – He was lionhearted and lamblike, strong and meek, tough and tender, aggressive and responsive, bold and brokenhearted. He sets the pattern for manhood.” John Piper

2. The Mighty God cannot be manhandled.

The Lord does not misuse His power. He cannot be manipulated, tricked, or bribed. Deuteronomy 10:17 says, “For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe.” Moses says, “My Dad is bigger than your dad.” The Lord is the greatest God and loftiest Lord. He is mighty and even awesome. Moses adds a side note: The Lord is fair and honest.

How is this verse comforting and challenging? ______

What comes to mind when you see or hear the word “awesome?” ______

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Paul reiterates the concept of the Lord being fair and honest in Romans 1:4, “And was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

What can happen when “power” and “holiness” do not go together? ______

Martin Luther knew he could trust the Lord. He wrote, “I have held many things in my hands, and have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.”

Why do we place things in God’s hands? How? ______

3. The “Mighty God” has the power to accomplish His purposes.

The Lord has a plan for our lives. He wants us to follow Him in salvation and repentance. Holiness and obedience are important to Him. Paul states Jesus’ title that also describes His mission. Titus 2:13 says, “Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”

What comes to mind when you see the title “Savior?” ______

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David asks a great question in Psalm 8:3-4, “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?” David points out that God created everything, but that He gives special attention to people.

What does the word “mindful” mean and imply? ______

Finally, Jeremiah 29:11 points out that God has a plan for our lives, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

How does the Lord’s title of “Mighty God” relate to Him having a plan for our lives? ______

“There is no question that America has been a nation that has been blessed by almighty God. There is no other nation in the history of mankind that has done what His nation has done - and it's because of God's hand and His blessing.” Franklin Graham

35 LESSON 2 MIGHTY GOD

36 HAVING COMPLETE POWER

MIGHTY GOD, DEVOTION 1

Philip Piasecki | Worship Leader

here is nothing worse than feeling powerless. As humans, we always want to have some control in our lives. I remember driving my brother and myself to school one dark January Tmorning when we hit a patch of ice on the freeway exit ramp. Instantly, I went from having complete control of my car, to having none at all. We spun 180 degrees to where we could see a semi truck heading straight for us. By the grace of God, I had the awareness to pull the wheel and slide us off into the ditch. My brother and I sat there speechless. I finally looked over at him and said: “Don’t tell mom about this.” Years later, we finally told my parents the story, and about how differently that morning could have gone for the both of us. Sometimes in life we can have this same feeling; it seems like our whole life is out of control, and that we have no power over what is happening. This is when we need to fix our eyes on the one who is the Mighty God.

The word Almighty means “having complete power.” I am sure that is not the first thought that came to everyone's mind when Jesus was first born as a baby. It is hard to imagine a tiny baby, that needs milk and needs to be changed, as having complete power. However, Jesus was fully God as well as fully man. God is Almighty. Therefore, Jesus is Almighty. When Jesus was born, He may not have been what the Jewish people were expecting for their king, but Jesus knew how His plan of redemption was going to unfold. Do we trust in Jesus as our Almighty God? I know that in my life, many times I put Christ in a box. I put limitations on what He can do, sometimes without even knowing it. However, it is evident in my prayers, my thoughts, and my actions. I know that if I daily approached Jesus

37 LESSON 2 DEVOTION 1

as my Almighty God, that I would see drastic changes in my life. We see an incredible picture of who Jesus is in Psalm 24:8-10:

“Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle! Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!”

Our Lord is strong and mighty. He is mighty in battle. He is fighting for us every day; there is no reason to hang our heads, we need to lift them up to the One who is mighty to save. Life does not always bring what we are expecting, but Jesus is there for us no matter what comes our way. He is the Mighty God, who holds complete power, expect that He will show up in mighty ways in your own life.

38 LETTERS TO THE NEXT ONE

MIGHTY GOD, DEVOTION 2

Ryan Story | Student Pastor

Dear Child,

I cannot be there for you every step of the way. I wish I could be there to watch every moment of your life, but I might have to miss a few important events in your life. I may have to walk out of the room, and you will fall off of something. I may not be around when your brothers gang up on you and hurt you. I have seen your brothers get hurt one too many times. It is humbling to know that I cannot be the type of father that can be everywhere at once. My extent as a father has limits. As much as I would love to be Superman, I know my shortcomings. I will never stop trying to live up to the Superman legacy, but I want you to always count on one person more than me, and no it is not your mother.

I want to be there for you no matter what. There is never anything you can do that would make me not love you. But I am a wreck of a person; I will at times fail you. God, however, will never fail you. He always has to be perfect. As much as I will attempt to be there for you in your life, He will be there more. David writes in Psalm103:13,

39 LESSON 2 DEVOTION 2

“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear Him.” In my life, I pray to show you compassion for others. I know I am falling far short of this. My emotional responses to compassion seemed to have malfunctioned years ago. I promise I will get better. I do not want you to grow up thinking God is cold like your father. I want you to grow up to know God as compassionate, loving, kind, and caring. Children must look to their fathers to show them compassion.

Now I am going to have to address a tough theological issue with you, my future child. If I can teach you anything, it will be “know your Trinity.” It is weird to read about the fore coming of the Messiah, the Son of God, Jesus, and hear that His name is described as “Everlasting Father.” Breaking your brain over the ins and outs of doctrine, know that because of Jesus, God’s fatherly character to us is revealed. If there is ever a moment you want to know what God is like as a father, look to the perfect image of God, Jesus. I pray I can emulate this to the point people see your Everlasting Father in your actions because you see His actions in your earthly father.

40 EL GIBBOR

MIGHTY GOD, DEVOTION 3

Donna Fox | Assistant to the Growth Pastor

t seems everyone is searching for something (or someone) to fill a void in their life. Until we find Jesus, we are empty. This was me as a child and young adult. My father was an alcoholic. Life was Inot pleasant a lot of the time. I would lie in bed at night, listening to the fighting and commotion, thinking that there has got to be something out there I am missing in my life. I longed for peace. God offers peace, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).

I used to watch Superman on TV. Lois Lane would get herself into a predicament, and mild-mannered Clark Kent would transform into her superhero and rescue her. One time she was falling off the roof of a building several stories high, and of course, at the last moment, Superman swooped down and caught her. I was searching for that hero, someone to rescue me.

I needed a warrior, a strong, powerful Savior to enter my life and rescue me. My father did not fill that role. My brothers did not either. Not even my husband, as wonderful as he was (and is) could fit the role. He was not that “superhero” I needed to rescue me. I wanted a mighty warrior. In Hebrew, Mighty God is translated “El Gibbor,” the ultimate power over all. I longed for an “El Gibbor” in my life. I finally found him on April 24, 1995!

When I was introduced to Jesus and began a relationship with Him, I was rescued! A Mighty God had come into my life, and I knew He would fill the void. This was what I was searching for all my life. I

41 LESSON 2 DEVOTION 3

was finally fulfilled and at peace. This was the superhero I needed in my life. One that would always be there to protect me, comfort me, and love me. In Hebrews 13:5, He said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

I spent years expecting someone to “save” me, a Savior. The Jews did as well. As prophesied in Isaiah and throughout the Old Testament, the Jews were expecting the Messiah to come and rescue them. When He did come, some recognized Jesus was the expected one; some did not. When your Savior calls out for you, do you recognize it is the Mighty God?

You are falling off the rooftop. You are almost to the first floor and then the ground. A Mighty God is reaching out to catch you and rescue you from certain death. Will you accept Him into your life? He is just waiting for you to believe and start a relationship with Him. Then the void in your life will be filled with His peace and love!

42 CAN I FIX IT?

MIGHTY GOD, DEVOTION 4

James Clouse | Student Pastor

like to fix things. I am not saying this in the sense that I am at all good with fixing cars, electronics, or even doing things around the house. Ask Amanda; you do not want to see me with power Itools (As I type this I do my best Tim Allen Tool Man grunt). Rather, when people tell me things or have a problem, the first thing I try to do often is fix it. I ask myself if this is something that I can fix. I then often realize that this situation is far above the limitations that are placed upon me as a human being. The situations that I want to fix are not possible in my limited capacity as a mere human being.

But in Ephesians 3:19-21, I read about a Savior who is unlimited in His capacity to fix any situation:

“And to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Underlining added)

Church, this should give us hope! I feel comforted knowing we have our Mighty God and Savior who can fix any situation we are going through in life. Does this mean that when we are going through hard times that Christ will be right there to fix everything? Of course not. But know that we have a mighty Savior on our side ready to be our “tool man” who will provide us the comfort that we need to get through those times.

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Look back at Ephesians 3:16 for more information. It says, “that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being.” Through the mighty power of Jesus Christ, we have the Spirit to help guide and lead us in life. Do you understand?

Christ can do anything and everything. He can accomplish any task, overcome any depression, beat any adversary, and fix any family. According to Ephesians, He is accomplishing things in our lives that we do not even know. With the power of the Spirit within us, we are granted some of this power of the Mighty Savior.

Rely on the power of Christ in your life, in your workplace, and in your family. Do not try to fix them alone.

44 HOW MIGHTY IS YOUR GOD?

MIGHTY GOD, DEVOTION 5

Kenny Hovis | Prison Ministry Director

ow many times have you had an instance to question whether God can help you overcome a circumstance in your life? We have so many opportunities to wonder if He is paying Hattention. Does He see us suffering? Does He care about a family member or our illness? Does He understand our loss of a job? Does He feel the passing of a loved one? Does He see how little money is in our bank account? Does He sense our loneliness? Does He know our feeling that no one cares for us? I have been in the desert of self-pity that accentuates so many of these feelings. You get to a place where you feel abandoned, a true sense of hopelessness. No matter your best efforts, you feel God does not care.

A few years back I was self-employed. We always seemed to be struggling to make ends meet. We could not afford health insurance and started praying for God to show us what we needed to do. How can we grow the business? Should I work harder, more hours? Should we sell our house? A couple of years went by, and I was offered a position with Oxford Township Parks and Recreation. It was a modest salary but had phenomenal insurance and benefits. I thought I would retire from there. God answered our prayers.

All the while working there, I had plenty of vacation time, and it allowed me the opportunity to go on many prison trips with the HIM Prison Ministry. I found that most of the men I talked to in prison felt these same feelings of despair, abandonment, loneliness, and doubt. I have concluded when faced with life's challenges, many of us have these feelings.

45 LESSON 2 DEVOTION 5

I was reading in Psalms and came upon this passage: “For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God” (Psalm 62:5-7).

As I read this passage, it just jumped out at me. Duh! We are not meant to try and solve our problems on our own. We are to put our cares and despairs in His hands. We cannot fix our lives and problems ourselves. We are supposed to surround ourselves in the safe confines of the fortress that God is. Only there will we not be shaken. He is the originator of our hope.

I have come to a place in my faith where I believe it is all about focus. We focus on all that we may not have instead of turning 180 degrees and focusing on the fact God provides for us. He loves us. He protects us.

My God is mighty enough to take care of any situation, care, or concern. How mighty is your God?

46 MIGHTY TO SAVE

MIGHTY GOD, DEVOTION 6

Noble Baird | Community Center Director

ack when I was just beginning to learn drums, one of the first worship songs I learned to play was, “Mighty to Save” by Hillsong United. I still remember my best friend Pete playing Bthe opening guitar riff as he counted me in on the drums to begin what ended up being the first beat I learned. We were just a couple of teenagers playing in the youth worship band, but it was some of the most amazing worship experiences I have ever had the privilege of being apart. Within the chorus of this song, Hillsong wrote:

“Saviour, He can move the mountains My God is mighty to save He is mighty to save Forever Author of Salvation He rose and conquered the grave Jesus conquered the grave.”

In this new study, we have been going over the different names of Christ during this Christmas season. This week is one of my favorites, Mighty God. Although we only see the actual name “Mighty God” in Isaiah 9:6, we continually see our God's might all throughout His Word. In 1 Peter 1:3-5 Peter writes about the words which we echo in the chorus of Mighty to Save, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” Here, Peter

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reminds us of the hope we have in Christ through His death and resurrection.

I love this song, because it perfectly depicts the Mighty God we have. During this Christmas season, it is not always easy. I know that there are those of you who dread and even hate this time of year, because of the pain and hurt that you are experiencing. However, I want to encourage you to remember the words of this chorus. Remember the Mighty God that we serve and have, never forgetting that He truly can move those mountains in our life and that no matter what, He has already conquered the grave for you and I. Yeah, we truly have a Mighty God and a Mighty Savior!

48 LESSON 2 DEVOTION 6

49 03 EVERLASTING FATHER

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 3 EVERLASTING FATHER

remember hearing a riddle about a father and son who were in a bad car accident. The father was killed. The son was rushed to the hospital. He needs surgery. A soon as the surgeon gets ready Ito make the first cut, the surgeon says, “I cannot operate – that boy is my son.”

How is this scenario possible? ______

Isaiah 9:6 brings an interesting scenario, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” A child is called “Everlasting Father.” Normally, a newborn child is not referred to as a father.

How is the Messiah the “Everlasting Father” while being a child? ______

Do any of the titles in this verse imply the deity of Jesus? ______

John Martin gives an interesting summary in the Bible Knowledge Commentary: “This Deliverer will also be called the Everlasting Father. Many people are puzzled by this title because the Messiah, God’s Son, is distinguished in the Trinity from God the Father. How can the Son be the Father? Several things must be noted in this regard. First, the Messiah, being the second Person of the Trinity, is in His essence, God. Therefore He has all the attributes of God

51 LESSON 3 EVERLASTING FATHER

including eternality. Since God is One (even though He exists in three Persons), the Messiah is God. Second, the title ‘Everlasting Father’ is an idiom used to describe the Messiah’s relationship to time, not His relationship to the other Members of the Trinity. He is said to be everlasting, just as God (the Father) is called ‘the Ancient of Days’ (Daniel 7:9). The Messiah will be a ‘fatherly’ Ruler. Third, perhaps Isaiah had in mind the promise to David (2 Samuel 7:16) about the ‘foreverness’ of the kingdom which God promised would come through David’s line. The Messiah, a Descendant of David, will fulfill this promise for which the nation had been waiting.”

Isaiah 63:16 adds, “For you are our Father, though Abraham does not know us, and Israel does not acknowledge us; you, O Lord, are our Father, our Redeemer from of old is your name.”

How does this relate to the “Everlasting Father” title? ______

1. Everlasting Father refers to Jesus’ deity.

Jesus is God, and He knows it. In John 10:30, He says, “I and the Father are one.”

What did Jesus mean by this verse? ______

He adds in John 14:9, “Jesus said to him, ‘Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father?’”

52 LESSON 3 EVERLASTING FATHER

What did Jesus mean by this verse? ______

2. Everlasting Father refers to Jesus’ love.

Oswald Chambers pointed out, “In the midst of the awesomeness, a touch comes, and you know it is the right hand of Jesus Christ. You know it is not the hand of restraint, correction, nor chastisement, but the right hand of the Everlasting Father. Whenever His hand is laid upon you, it gives inexpressible peace and comfort, and the sense that ‘underneath are the everlasting arms,’ (Deuteronomy 33:27) full of support, provision, comfort and strength.”

As we have seen from John 14:9, Jesus equates Himself with the Father. Psalm 68:5 speaks of the love of the Father, “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation.”

1 Corinthians 8:6 says, “Yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” Ephesians 4:6 adds, “One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” God is clearly referred to as the Father.

What positive connotations come to mind when you think of a father? ______

What should a father look like? ______

53 LESSON 3 EVERLASTING FATHER

How is Jesus a loving Father? ______

Romans 8:15-16 says, “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’ The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.”

How can we become children of God? ______

Revelation 1:8 says, “‘I am the Alpha and the Omega,’ says the Lord God, ‘who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.’” Jesus is God. He always has been, is, and always will be. He is the Everlasting Father.

In the 1500’s Francis de Sales said, “The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will care for you tomorrow and every day. Either he will shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace then and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginings.”

How does Jesus’ title of Everlasting Father comfort, encourage, challenge, and motivate you? ______

54 LESSON 3 EVERLASTING FATHER

“How complex is the person of our Lord Jesus Christ! Almost in the same breath, the prophet calls him a ‘child,’ and a ‘counselor,’ a ‘son,’ and ‘the everlasting Father.’ This is no contradiction, and to us scarcely a paradox, but it is a mighty marvel that he who was an infant should at the same time be infinite, he who was the Man of Sorrows should also be God over all, blessed for ever; and that he who is in the Divine Trinity always called the Son, should nevertheless be correctly called ‘the everlasting Father.’” Charles Spurgeon

55 LESSON 3 EVERLASTING FATHER

56 FATHER OF ALL

EVERLASTING FATHER, DEVOTION 1

Isaiah Combs | Worship Leader & Young Adults Director

he term “father” comes with a lot of emotions. For some, father or dad is a safe place. He is a person children can fully rely on and trust. In many families, the father is the pillar or Tthe rock in the family.

The term “Daddy’s girl” came to mind. I have four children, and three of them are beautiful girls. All three of them love to snuggle up next to their dad on the couch. They might love it, but not as much as I do. I love that they know that they are safe with their Dad and I love them with everything I have. I would give and do anything for them. I take my role as a Dad very seriously. It is my job and responsibility to love and guide my children.

The Bible describes God as a Father close to 100 times. Becoming a father is what made me finally realize why God is called “Father.” I may love my kids a lot, but it is not even close to the amount that God loves them or me. He guides me; He is my pillar and my rock. Just like I have the best intentions for my kids, God has even better intentions for my children and me. I can feel safe in my Father’s arms.

My wife’s father left her family when she was twelve years old. The term father brings up different emotions for her. She was abandoned by her father. So God to her is the Father she never had. He is a Father who will never abandon her. He is a good, good father. He is the Father she always wanted and the only Father she will ever need.

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My earthly father is great. He is everything you could want in a dad, but he does not even come close to how awesome and perfect a father God is. One day my dad is going to pass away, and many of you have experienced this. However, my Heavenly Father will still be with me.

The term father brings up different emotions for you. Hopefully, it is great memories. When you no longer have your father, God is an Everlasting Father. He is a Father that lasts forever.

I am thankful for the love of the Father, and I am thankful that He is everything I could ever want and need.

Ephesians 4:6 says, “One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

58 NEVER LEAVE NOR FORSAKE

EVERLASTING FATHER, DEVOTION 2

Philip Piasecki | Worship Leader

eing a father has drastically changed my approach to life. After my daughter was born, my main priority became being the best father I could be. Every action and decision that I Bmake started being run through the filter of being a father. I have always been a huge thrill seeker; however, I am now much less likely to do something that could put my life in danger now that I am a dad. I always want to be there for my kids, and it breaks my heart to see those whose fathers have abandoned them. The lack of good fathers is truly an epidemic in our culture today. There are so many kids that just want to know they have a dad who loves them, and they have been deprived that opportunity so far in their life. However, Christmas can be an incredible reminder of the Everlasting Father that we have through the person of Jesus Christ.

When Scripture calls Jesus “Everlasting Father,” do not be confused, it is not mistaking Him for God the Father. However, Jesus is the perfect representation of God the Father’s attributes. Through Jesus, we see fatherly love. In Scripture we see Jesus love His friends, His disciples, strangers, and ultimately lay His life down for all of those people. A father never abandons his children. Still to this day, if I need help with something, I know that I can call my dad and he will be there right away. In Hebrews, we see the fatherly character of Christ.

Hebrews 13:5-6 says, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’”

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This Scripture serves as an important reminder that true contentment comes from knowing that the Lord is with us, and will never leave us. It does not matter what worldly possessions we have or how life is treating us, we can celebrate knowing that the Lord is with us. Jesus Christ, the Everlasting Father, will never leave us or forsake us. He does not bail when life gets rough, and He does not give up on us when we fail Him. He cares for us, He watches over us, He encourages us, He disciplines us, and He treats us like a father treats his children. If you do not have a loving earthly father, know that God is your Heavenly Father whose perfect attributes were put on display for the world to see through His son Jesus Christ. If you are a dad reading this, I challenge you to have your actions towards your children reflect those of our perfect Heavenly Father. Even when it may feel like we are alone, take hope in knowing that God and Jesus Christ are always there for us.

60 “DADDY”

EVERLASTING FATHER, DEVOTION 3

James Clouse | Student Pastor

orelai, my daughter, is incredibly special to me. She is our little miracle child. She was born through God’s love and grace, and that is why her middle name is Grace. I did not always Lhave the best relationship with my dad growing up. While we have a good relationship now; growing up was not always easy. When my wife Amanda and I had Lorelai, I made a promise to both my wife and daughter that I would be the very best daddy that I could be.

When I think of Jesus as my Everlasting Father, I think about the ways that He is an amazing daddy to me. People all over the world are without fathers and search for father figures in their lives. They think of this phrase “I wish my dad was ______.” People fill in this blank with many things such as loving, caring, or loyal.

We often forget to look at Jesus as our Father. In John 8:18-19, Jesus reminds us where to look for our Father.

“‘I am the one who bears witness about myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness about me.’ They said to him therefore, ‘Where is your Father?’ Jesus answered, ‘You know neither me nor my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also.’”

If we want to know Jesus as Father, we need to first know His Father. His Father, God, is all the things that people can use to fill in the blank. God is loving, God is caring, and God is loyal.

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Galatians 4:6 reminds us who our Father is when Paul writes, “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying ‘Abba! Father!’”

When you need someone to run to, run to God. When you need someone to cry out to, cry to your Heavenly Father. When you need someone to care for you when you feel that there is nobody else caring, let the Father who cared for the world enough to send His son for eternal salvation care for you.

If you are looking for a Father, run to Jesus to fill in that blank.

62 FATHER OF ETERNITY

EVERLASTING FATHER, DEVOTION 4

Wes McCullough | Production Director

ne of my biggest desires in life was to be a father. God’s plan had me waiting longer than I wanted but now I am one year into the journey of fatherhood. I have a son who loves to Olaugh and dance to music. I look forward to teaching him everything I know, saving him from repeating my mistakes, and watching him mature into a godly man. I am filled with pride as I watch him learn and develop. Being a father has brought me such joy.

My perspective has changed as I am now on both sides of the father/ son dynamic. I am the teacher and advice giver to my son, but I still turn to my father for wisdom. I wish there was a way I could always be available to advise my son. It is sad to think I will not always be there for my son, just as my father will not always be there for me. The good news is our Heavenly Father is everlasting, never-ending, and eternal. He was the beginning, and He is the end.

Isaiah 40:28 says: “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.”

It is comforting to know we have a God on whom we can depend. Our God is an unshakeable rock. When others fail us, He is there. Put your faith in the Father of eternity; everything else is a short-term arrangement.

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64 LETTERS TO THE NEXT ONE

EVERLASTING FATHER, DEVOTION 5

Ryan Story | Student Pastor

Dear Child,

65 LESSON 3 DEVOTION 5

you in your life, He will be there more. David writes in Psalm103:13, “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear Him.” In my life, I pray to show you compassion for others. I know I am falling far short of this. My emotional responses to compassion seemed to have malfunctioned years ago. I promise I will get better. I do not want you to grow up thinking God is cold like your father. I want you to grow up to know God as compassionate, loving, kind, and caring. Children must look to their fathers to show them compassion.

66 COMPASSION

EVERLASTING FATHER, DEVOTION 6

John Carter | Director of Operations

saiah 9:6 says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting IFather, Prince of Peace.”

In our current culture and country, the role of the father has been diminished quite significantly; our view of what a father is may seem obscure to many. Watching T.V. will quickly show you that the modern father is portrayed as a weak role, a position that is not respected or revered. Often the character is played like one that is ignorant, incompetent, or downright wicked. I assume this role is played out because that is what the majority of people have experienced in their own life. As we see Jesus described here in Isaiah, He is given the title “Everlasting Father,” we must be careful not to associate our perceptions of what a father is onto Jesus.

Jesus is described as “Everlasting Father” meaning that He has always been and will always be the founder of our faith. It is easy to forget that everlasting part of the title. That means forever, always, and in all situations. He is our father when things are difficult, when things are going well, when we make mistakes, and when we do not make mistakes. It is forever! We must be careful not to respond to Jesus as our Father in the same way that we respond to our earthly fathers. We may find ourselves putting guilt and shame where guilt and shame have already been handled. When we humble ourselves, repent, and put our trust in Jesus, we give Him the shame and guilt that comes with sin. How awesome is it to have a Savior that has an intimate understanding of what a good father should be? Psalm

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103:13 (NASB) says, “Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.”

I hope today, you will reflect on how good our Heavenly Father is. He is kind, just, and merciful. Maybe you can relate to this with your earthly father, maybe not. Either way, we have an example to look to in Jesus as our Eternal Father.

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69 04 PRINCE OF PEACE

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 4 PRINCE OF PEACE

This verse contains the first of Isaiah’s 25 references to peace. It is an important topic to us. We tease about the typical beauty pageant answer concerning a goal or desire, “World Peace.” However, it is bigger than that. We want peace at church, work, school, neighborhood, home, and even within ourselves.

Where do you typically struggle finding peace? ______

Matthew Henry wrote, “Christ died. He left a will in which He gave His soul to His Father, His body to Joseph of Arimathea, His clothes to the soldiers, and His mother to John. But to His disciples, who had left all to follow Him, He left not silver or gold, but something far better - His PEACE!”

Jesus offers peace. Prepositions can be important. We need peace “with, from, and of” God.

1. Peace with God

It is crazy to realize, but we are born being at war with God. As an infant, we have a sin nature that encourages us to worship self. We feed that desire throughout life striving to fill a void. That gap can only be filled by Jesus Christ. Yet, we fight the solution. We need and seek peace, but we ignore the Prince of Peace.

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Jesus came to earth as a man, lived a perfect life, died for our sins, was buried, and rose again so that we could find peace. We can now have peace with God through Jesus Christ.

John MacArthur said, “God can work peace through us only if He has worked peace in us… Those who are in the best of circumstances but without God can never find peace, but those in the worst of circumstances but with God need never lack peace.”

Do you remember what your life was like before you gave your life to Jesus? ______

C.S. Lewis adds, “God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.” We can not have the peace from God or the peace of God until we are at peace with God. Jesus is the Prince of Peace because He made the connection possible.

Do you see the world struggling for peace? ______

Dwight L. Moody pointed out, “A great many people are trying to make peace, but that has already been done. God has not left it for us to do; all we have to do is to enter into it.”

Where does the world strive to find peace aside from Jesus? ______

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What does it mean to enter into the peace of God? ______

Romans 5:1 gives a great summary for this section, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” We have peace with God through the Prince of Peace.

2. Peace from God

Once you have peace with God, you are open to the blessings that come with peace from God.

How is peace from God different than peace with God? ______

I regularly thought of peace with God (salvation) and peace of God (calmness during the storm) but did not acknowledge peace from God. One of Paul's favorite greetings was a mixture of a Greek and Hebrew blessing, “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:3). Paul likes to start his letters with this greeting (Romans 1:7; 2 Corinthians 1:2; Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2; Philippians 1:2; Colossians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:2; 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; Philemon 1:3). The Greek or Christian greeting emphasized grace while the Hebrew blessing was about peace.

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Why would peace be such an important part of blessing someone? ______

There is turmoil in the world. We need peace. Warren Wiersbe said, “Real contentment must come from within. You and I cannot change or control the world around us, but we can change and control the world within us.” We must focus on the Lord. We must fix our eyes on Him. Peace comes from Him. He is the Prince of Peace.

I do not know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future!

What does this phrase mean to you? ______

F.B. Meyer gives some very practical advice, “As we pour out our bitterness, God pours in his peace.”

How can we “pour out our bitterness?” ______

3. Peace of God

Philippians 4:7 so beautifully says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I enjoy reading other translations of the center phrase:

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“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (KJV)

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)

The peace of God “passeth, surpasses, and transcends” all understanding. It is hard to explain, and there is no logical explanation outside of the Prince of Peace.

What does peace of God mean to you? ______

When have you experienced the peace of God? ______

In his book, Follow Me, David Platt starts by saying, “I did what everyone expected me to do. I planted a megachurch. I wrote a bestseller. I started a college, planted other churches, and spoke at conferences. But there was a big problem: I lacked peace.”

Are you so busy “doing” that you are not being still and realizing that He is God? ______

Isaiah foretold that the Prince of Peace was coming. Luke 2:14 records a beautiful song that the angels sang at the Savior’s birth, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Jesus brought peace and is peace.

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Ephesians 2:14 adds, “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.” Jesus is our peace.

How is Jesus our peace? ______

In his commentary, Robert Jamieson referred to Jesus as “The Tranquillizer.” Does this make sense or offend you? ______

Henry Blackaby admonished, “The Christian needs to walk in peace, so no matter what happens they will be able to bear witness to a watching world.” The world knows pain. People can relate to pain, anger, and complaining. They do not understand peace during the storm.

I found an acronym for PEACE that I thought was relevant: People Expressing A Christ Everlasting.

Mother Theresa gave some very basic advice, “Peace begins with a smile.”

How can we show peace in the world? ______

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Where do you need to show peace? ______

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)

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78 JORDAN

PRINCE OF PEACE, DEVOTION 1

Sierra Combs | Women's Ministry Director

few years ago, my beautiful 22-year-old cousin was killed in a car accident. I wish I had pages of space to tell you her testimony because it is pretty much the most amazing oneA I have ever witnessed, but perhaps another day. I remember it vividly. Those were some of the most difficult days of my life. On the late October day that she died, I walked into my doctor’s office excited for a routine ultrasound of our third baby-to-be, only to find that there was no longer a heartbeat and we had lost the baby. I walked out to my car, and before I even had my seatbelt buckled, my mom called to tell me that Jordan had just been killed. Talk about a double punch in the gut. In the course of 15 minutes, I went from a happy, vibrant girl who was over the moon excited about the future to a girl overwhelmed with grief and despair, having just lost two people that I loved. I can still feel the knots in my stomach when I think about that day. I will never forget that funeral. I will never forget the hundreds and hundreds of people who waited in a line for hours to pay their respects to the family and say goodbye. I can still see the tear-streamed faces and hear the cries of her friends. This girl touched so many lives. But the thing I will never forget was her amazingly strong mother and the way she took on that day. She stood for hours, greeting every single person in that line with a huge smile on her face, sharing the Gospel with all of them (several of which accepted Christ by the way, again, another amazing story for another day!). I have never seen anyone exude so much peace as I did that day.

How could a mother who lost her precious daughter just days before have so much peace? How could I find that same source of peace

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as I mourned the loss of my child, one I would never meet? There was nothing we could do to stop these things – death, loss, wars, sickness, turmoil, and evil. The list seems endless. This world is so chaotic and hard, and we have no control over it. How could anyone ever have peace? Though life’s troubles have a way of sneaking up on us, nothing takes God by surprise. Because of His sweet and loving kindness, He sent us a Savior, the “Prince of Peace,” Jesus Christ. But God never tells us that because we are saved, we will have it easy. He actually tells us the opposite. In John 16:33, Jesus is speaking to His disciples and tells them, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” You see, true peace, God’s peace, is not the same as worldly peace. It does not come from a happy life, free from pain and suffering. If it did, no one would ever be able to attain it, at least not for very long. True peace comes from knowing that God is in control. True peace comes from knowing that God is in control and giving that control over to Him (even though it was never even ours to begin with, but hey it is the thought that counts). God tells us that when we are anxious and troubled that all we have to do is bring that burden to him, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). When we present our requests to God through prayer and petition, that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).

As much as I wish that Jordan was still with us and that another little blue-eyed blonde Combs’ kid was running around my house, God had a different plan. Sometimes we will not be able to understand the reasons behind the plan, but our God is so faithful and loving. While He does not promise us peace in the way the world would define it, He promises something better. As a child of God, I know that He is in complete control and that no matter what I face in this

80 LESSON 4 DEVOTION 1 life, my future is eternally secure. Rest in God’s true peace today and every day, giving thanks to the Savior, Jesus Christ, The Prince of Peace.

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82 A PEACEFUL SEASON

PRINCE OF PEACE, DEVOTION 2

Philip Piasecki | Worship Leader

am sure when most of us think of the holiday season, we do not think of the word “peace.” It seems like Thanksgiving through New Years has become the most insane time of the year. We all Ihave Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years family functions. We all know how interesting it can get when family members get together for Thanksgiving and Christmas. We all can think of that family member combo that will inevitably result in some sort of argument over family history, politics, or some other nonsense! There is also food to make, houses to clean, decorations to put out, lights to put up, presents to buy, Christmas pictures to take, and Christmas cards to send out. Have I successfully raised your blood pressure yet? How does some peace sound?

One of the names of Jesus is “The Prince of Peace.” That is what Christmas is all about, celebrating the peace that Jesus allows us to have in our lives. We can have peace in relationships, peace with ourselves, peace with our decisions, and the list could go on and on. While all of those things are true and good, they are not even close to as important as one type of peace Jesus brings us.

Ephesians 2:12-14 says, “Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.”

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Jesus made a way for there to be peace between us and God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This verse tells us that we were once separated from Christ, had no hope, and were without God, essentially we were hopeless. There was no peace between Christ and us; there was strife. That was until Christ, through His blood, brought us near to Him and became our peace. Let the craziness of the holidays be a reminder of the peace that we have through Jesus Christ. That peace can extend through to every aspect of our lives. The Prince of Peace gave His life for us so that we could have peace between Him and us. I pray that as a church we will focus on the peace that we have through Him and that we would extend that same peace and love to other people. When the world seems crazy around us, rest in the Lord and rest in His peace.

84 IRONY PRINCE OF PEACE, DEVOTION 3

Ken Perry

rony is a situation or writing that is strange or funny because things happen in a way that seems contrary to what you would I normally expect. Some examples of irony might be these: 1. The Bible is, among other things, a written code of conduct for Christian living and the irony is that it is the most shoplifted book in America. 2. A Charlie Brown Christmas is a program essentially about the over-commercialization of the holidays, and the irony is that it gets cut in length each year to make room for more commercials. 3. William Eno is the inventor of the stop sign, traffic circle, one-way street, and the crosswalk and the irony is that he never learned how to drive. 4. Jesus Christ is described in the book of Isaiah as the Prince of Peace; the irony is that the mere mention of His name causes more contention and division among people than any other. You would be hard-pressed to find a more polarizing figure in all of humanity.

In Isaiah chapter 26 verse 3 we read these words, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts you.” A relationship with God gives us “The peace that passes all understanding.” It is a peace that transcends all that people have conceived or imagined.

We read the word “peace” and often ascribe a meaning in alignment with groups and individuals being calm and tranquil, yet the reality is that even the most peaceful looking people are still in utter chaos if they do not have the deeper meaning of the word peace which

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is brought about by being restored to God. As sinful beings, God can have no part with us. The Bible tells us that darkness and light cannot coexist and it is only through the shed blood of Christ and the remission of sin that a person can be in unity and harmony with God.

I had the pleasure of serving the church as the assistant to the Reach Pastor and each day I got to see how the Lord uses The River Church to minister to lost and broken people. I got to be on the front lines as this church “reaches” into prisons and jails to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to men and women that can give nothing in return. They are people who are so desperate to find peace in the midst of chaos and hope where there is no hope. Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” It is only through a right relationship with God that we can have peace with Him.

It is no wonder then why the Apostle Paul was so fervent with his words in 2 Corinthians 5:20 (NKJV), “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.”

It is pure irony that people shun a relationship with God in an attempt to find peace and yet the One they are pushing away is the only One in whom true peace can be found. If you are lost, be reconciled today. If you have strayed, be reconciled to a right relationship today. I want to leave you with the words from the purveyors of sage advice around the country, the bumper sticker, “No God, No Peace- Know God, Know Peace.”

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PRINCE OF PEACE, DEVOTION 4

Ryan Story | Student Pastor

Dear Child,

There is a concept I would like you to have instilled in your heart. There is a Hebrew word, “Shalom.” That is a fancy way to say “peace.” In Isaiah chapter 9, Isaiah uses the phrase “Prince of Peace” to describe Jesus. The root word for peace translates roughly to a peace from completeness. Knowing how to be at peace with the completion of Jesus’ work is one of the most amazing types of peace you could ever have. Knowing that in any situation, hardship, adversity, and attack, you can rest assuredly that Jesus is in control should calm your heart in such a great way. Knowing Jesus brought a peace to our relationship with God should calm you during any ordeal.

Do not let yourself live in the area of stress, doubt, or faithlessness. There is nothing of profit there. As I type, I am reminded of a song by Hillsong United called “Prince of Peace.” It is playing in my headphones. One verse of that song strikes out to me:

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“When fear comes knockin, there You’ll be my guard When day breeds trouble, there you’ll hold my heart Come storm or battle, God I know Your peace will meet me there.”

No matter what the outcome, know that our God is there for us. He protects us and wants us to know He is there for His children.

Peace is not something that comes from anything we can do. Peace can only come from growing in God. Peace is a Fruit of the Spirit, and apart from the Spirit, you will not grow in it. To have peace, you have to have the Spirit and to get the Spirit inside of you, you must know the Son, who is the Prince of Peace. Child, I want you to have peace that is true but know that you will never have that if you do not know who Jesus is. Jesus is the only one who brings true completeness in our lives.

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PRINCE OF PEACE, DEVOTION 5

John Carter | Director of Operations

or to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty “FGod, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.” Isaiah 9:6-7

The title attributed to the coming Messiah in Isaiah 9:6-7 is attributed to Jesus Christ. The particular title “Prince of Peace,” indicates some significant things about Jesus. The title “prince” would have been understood as the future leader of a particular people or group. When Jesus is our Lord, He fulfills that title; He is our leader. In our current world and society, peace might be hard to understand. We for sure see the opposite of peace in a very real and dynamic way with current news. So, we see Jesus’ title as the one that will lead a particular group of people and will have peace. Verse 7 of this particular passage in Isaiah states that “of peace there will be no end.” Consider that Jesus is not only the leader of peace but the one who gives it without end. Wow! How awesome is that?

To know that no matter what trial, difficulty, or life circumstance that may arise our Lord is the Prince of Peace, the one who will give it without end. Maybe you have never considered Jesus Christ as someone that holds this title in your life? Maybe you have held onto something that has kept peace from becoming a reality? May

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I encourage you to look to Jesus as the holder and giver of peace. He is the One who knows every kind of pain that you may endure today. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I want that kind of peace to exist in my life, in my family, and in every aspect! Jesus is the answer to that desire. I hope this short reminder may be an encouragement today to look to Jesus for your peace in the difficulties of everyday life.

90 PEACE AND GLORY

PRINCE OF PEACE, DEVOTION 6

Bryan Fox

ow and then, I will look at comments on news articles regarding tragedies in the world. Whether it is about war or killings there are usually comments along the line of “how Ncan a loving God allow this to happen?” Then a terrible shooting takes place in a church building, and people go off the charts trash talking God, religion, and faith.

I have no answer as to why these things happen other than all things work for the glory of God. His plan is not ours and to pretend to understand in our small brain what His ways are is quite prideful and arrogant, to say the least.

To me, Prince of Peace means having an inner peace with God. The fact that I am a child of His brings me comfort and the basis that I can rationalize the many difficulties I encounter in my life. Jesus did not promise a life without pain, sorrow, or difficulties. So when I face these trials, I look to my faith in Jesus for peace in dealing with them. We were born as an enemy to God through our sin, but because of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, we have the hope and security of eternal peace. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we have been brought back to a relationship of peace with God.

“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans‬ ‭5:1‬

In the meantime, tragedies will continue, there will be sickness, disease and famine, mass shootings, death, and destruction. True world peace will become a reality only after Jesus returns.

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“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

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93 05

IMMANUEL

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 5 IMMANUEL

n the 1996 movie, Jingle All the Way, Arnold Schwarzenegger wants to impress his wife and son by getting the hottest toy of the season, Turbo-Man. The problem is that he decides on Christmas IEve and the toy is basically sold out. Adventure abounds as he goes to all kinds of measures to get the best gift ever for his son.

What was the best gift you have received (other than salvation)? ______

What is the best gift you have given? ______

The greatest present ever is not Turbo-Man, a lava lamp, Tickle Me Elmo, or even diamonds. The greatest Christmas present ever is His presence. The first Christmas was special. Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and angels all welcomed His presence. On that day, Jesus was born. However, His name was also Immanuel which means “God with us.” When Jesus came to earth, it meant God came to earth. The present was His presence.

What do you think that first night was like? ______

Isaiah wrote about this special birth 700 years before it occurred, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).

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Matthew 1:23 records the fulfillment, “‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us).”

What does this mean to you? ______

David knew God was present everywhere. Psalm 139:7-12 says, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. If I say, ‘Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,’ even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.”

What locations are covered in this passage? ______

How is this kind of “presence” different than when Immanuel was born? ______

In discussing the presence of God, there are two aspects that need to be realized: before Immanuel and because of Immanuel.

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1. The presence of God before Immanuel

The Lord’s presence should bring comfort and confidence. There was a time when God’s presence in the life of a person was temporary. Joshua, Samson, and David give clear examples. a. Joshua

Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” This promise is repeated in Deuteronomy 31:23 and Joshua 1:9.

Why do you think God repeated the promise? ______b. Samson

A key phrase in Samson’s life is, “The Spirit of the Lord rushed upon him” (Judges 14:6, 19; 15:14). The phrase implies that the Lord was not already with him.

Later, in Judges 16:20 we read that the Lord had left him, “And she said, ‘The Philistines are upon you, Samson!’ And he awoke from his sleep and said, ‘I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.’ But he did not know that the Lord had left him.”

Why did the Lord leave him? ______

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c. David

David encourages Solomon in 1 Chronicles 28:20, “Then David said to Solomon his son, ‘Be strong and courageous and do it. Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed, for the Lord God, even my God, is with you. He will not leave you or forsake you, until all the work for the service of the house of the Lord is finished.’”

David was confident God would not forsake his son, but Psalm 51:11 records a less confident man thinking about his own life, “Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.”

Why was David worried about the Spirit leaving him? ______

How does this section relate to the Trinity? Check the names of who would or would not leave these men. ______

2. The presence of God because of Immanuel

While the Old Testament saints understood that God had not yet come permanently, they were awaiting the Messiah, Immanuel. Since Immanuel has come, He has given us comfort and confidence. Philip Yancey wrote, “Always, no matter the circumstances, we have the assurance of ‘Immanuel,’ which simply means ‘God with us.’”

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When Jesus came to earth, God was with man. Once He left, He sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within His followers. John 16:7 says, “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.”

Who is “the Helper?” ______

How was it advantageous for us for Jesus to leave? ______

Matthew 28:18-20 gives a promise from the Lord, “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’”

What promise does the Lord give us? ______

“In Jesus, you come near to us as the most compassionate Shepherd, gathering and carrying your lambs in your arms. The image and hope are staggering. To be tended as a dumb sheep, to be held close to your heart, to be gently led—what more could we possibly long for? These aren’t mere metaphors, Father. Metaphors

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cannot save us, only inspire us. You really are this kind of God and you really are this kind. The coming of Jesus puts all nations on notice: there is only one true King. And the coming of Jesus puts all your people facedown in adoring love, for Jesus is a most wonderful, merciful Savior, Immanuel, the God who is with us and the God who is for us.” Scotty Smith

Finally, Hebrews 13:5 adds, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”

How does God’s presence comfort you? ______

How does God’s presence give you confidence? ______

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101 LESSON 5 IMMANUEL

102 ANTICIPATION

IMMANUEL, DEVOTION 1

Richie Henson | Production Director

s a child, Christmas is all about waiting. After Thanksgiving is over, you wait to visit Santa in the mall. Then, you wait for Christmas vacation at school. Finally, you wait for ChristmasA morning, just hoping that the event can live up to the hype. Often, the anticipation or expectation of the morning arriving became heavy and burdensome. It felt that it would never come.

This Christmas season, I have been looking at the Christmas story from the perspective of a child waiting for Christmas. In Matthew 1:22-23, Mary is told by an angel that she will bear a son: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us).”

At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Jews had been waiting in expectation for hundreds of years. The Old Testament prophets promised that Jesus, Immanuel, God with us, would come as their Savior. However, as the decades passed, and the Roman captivity began, there is no doubt that their expectations for God to be with them became a point of anxiety.

Although we live after the times of Jesus, I think it can be just as easy for us to feel loaded down with the need for the presence of Jesus. We can feel in our struggles and difficulties that we are waiting around for God to show up. However, we must always remember that the names of Jesus are references to His perfect character. So, Immanuel does not just mean God is with us when we feel Him, or that God is with us when Jesus returns. Instead, we can know that

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God is with us always because it is in His character and nature to be present with His people.

Life is rarely ever easy, but we can live with ease knowing that Jesus is always with us. He is Immanuel.

104 EXPECT HIS PRESENCE

IMMANUEL, DEVOTION 2

Carole Combs | Women's Ministry

am guessing that you must not be like me; everything that you plan and work towards happens just as you have planned. You never have any unexpected happenings, right? What an absurd thought! IAll of us often, if not daily, get curve balls thrown at us on a regular basis. How are you doing with those unexpected happenings? What has been your thoughts or responses? If unexpected things happen each day to all of us, should our responses to the unexpected be different as a follower of Christ than those who do not know Christ?

It was a wonderful day. Mary was engaged to be married to the most wonderful man named Joseph. He was a very handsome and talented carpenter. Mary was anticipating their special day together that she had dreamt of since she was a little girl. Her wedding dress had been sewn together with love. The detailed plans of the wedding were falling into place. Then the unexpected happened. While Mary was doing her daily chores, an angel named Gabriel appeared to Mary. As he spoke to her, he said, “Greetings O favored one, the Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28). We see the human response of Mary (1:29) which is helpful to you and I. Mary was troubled. How often do you have an angel appear to you and engage you in a conversation? The angel told Mary not to be afraid (1:30).

Often our first response to the unexpected can be fear. Fear can blind you and paralyze you from seeing and hearing what God has for you in the unexpected.

Luke 1:31-33 continues the story, “Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.

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He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

For Mary, it was decision time to trust God in the unexpected or not trust Him. Mary responds to the shocking, unexpected news with, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Not too far away, Joseph, the groom, experienced the unexpected. Joseph was sleeping after a very long day of work. It had been quite an emotional day as he pondered how he would send his beloved pregnant Mary away privately. The child was not his. How could this have happened? An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, “Do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us)” (Matthew 1:20-23). Joseph woke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him to do. The unexpected events that changed Joseph and Mary's day were God's plans and purposes for their lives. God carefully handpicked this young couple. It was a series of unexpected events; however, they were events that had been prophesied 700 years earlier. This was the King that they both had learned about and were expecting. This was the King that was to come to earth to save the people. It went from the most unexpected day to the expected best day ever! God desires to be with you, and He has a purpose designed just for you. He sent his Son Jesus to be the perfect sacrifice for the sins of you, me, and the whole world. He came in the most unexpected way, but He was expected! What better gift could you expect at Christmas? We have His love! If you miss love, you have missed everything!

106 STILL WITH US

IMMANUEL, DEVOTION 3

Philip Piasecki | Worship Leader

he Holiday season is a very complex time. There is joy in celebrating our Savior with friends and family. The opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus can be such an Tincredible time of worship. However, on the other hand, this season can bring about many sad and difficult emotions. For many people, Christmas celebrations are reminders of family and friends that they have lost in their life. My wife and I have lost people close to us, and while Christmas is joyful, it is still a painful reminder of those that we have lost. In the midst of so much joy, there can also be sadness. We remember those that are no longer with us while celebrating the One who became flesh to come to earth and be with us.

While studying the different names of Christ, “Immanuel” really struck a chord with me. The name means “God with us.” When the Angel declared the coming birth of Jesus, he commanded that He be named Immanuel. What an incredible picture, that the birth of Jesus was God coming to be with us in the flesh. God loved us so much, that He wanted His son to come to earth and live with His creation. After Jesus was crucified and resurrected, He ascended back to the right hand of God, but that does not mean that He is no longer with us. If the name of Immanuel is true, then God is still with us. He gave us the presence of the Holy Spirit so that there would be nowhere we could go where He would not be with us. Look at the words of Jesus in the book of John.

John 16:7 says, “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.”

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Though Jesus has returned to Heaven, He left us with something that is even more advantageous for us who are believers. We have the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. We find our peace, our comfort, our wisdom, and our power through the presence of the Holy Spirit. So when we are sorrowful, when we are lonely, when we are in despair, we can receive the comfort of Immanuel, God with us. The name does not mean “God somewhere out in the abyss,” think of the implications of Him being with us! We can live our lives drastically different knowing that we have the Holy Spirit of our God with us. Ask for the Holy Spirit to strengthen you, ask for Him to guide you, and ask for Him to bring you comfort in your time of need. Even though the Christmas season can be filled with sorrow, the joy of knowing that God is with us can strengthen and encourage us in our time of need.

108 WITH US IS GOD

IMMANUEL, DEVOTION 4

James Mann | Children's Director

mmanuel is a symbolic name meaning “with us is God.” This is one of the most beautiful names that we can call Jesus, because it is showing Him actually with us. He is not portrayed as this Iunattainable figure that we can never get to, but instead as someone who we can enjoy as we spend time with Him. Something that I always found interesting is that people are always waiting for Jesus to come back, but if you are truly a follower of Jesus, you know that He has never left us. Isaiah 8:10 says, “Take counsel together, but it will come to nothing; speak a word, but it will not stand, for God is with us.” Most religions praise and worship a god that they cannot even reach. They are trying to obtain something that is not even possible. Our amazing God has made it possible to reach Him and be with Him.

Something interesting about the name Immanuel is that in the Old Testament (before the birth of Jesus) we first hear the name, Immanuel. Then we hear this name again in Matthew 1:23., “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.” Many biblical scholars search the Bible for moments like this when the Old Testament is showing us something that will later occur in the New Testament. I like to view the name Immanuel less of a name and more of a promise. The name is brought up in the Old Testament, but then the promise is fulfilled in the New Testament. We receive Immanuel (Jesus) here in Matthew. No longer is God this figure that we cannot see or hear, but He becomes a baby that is born into the world, takes on the sin of the world, and dies for our sins.

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110 LETTERS TO THE NEXT ONE

IMMANUEL, DEVOTION 5

Ryan Story | Student Pastor

Dear Child,

Always know that God has a sense of humor. While sitting here asking God where to go with this letter, I checked twitter and saw a tweet by a Pastor in North Carolina. It said, “Knowing who is with you is more important than knowing where you are going.” There will be times in your life, little one, that things will not make sense. There will be times when confusion will seem to be the norm, but remember that you know the One. There will be times when you are too afraid to take that one small step in faith, but remember you know the One. Psalm 118:6 says, “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Never be afraid of what lies ahead of you; never let your fear slow you down. Always remember who you have on your side.

Jesus’ most famous nickname might be Immanuel. That means “God with us.” In those three words unpacks one of the most amazing truths in the entire Bible. God left His perfect seat in Heaven and

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came to be with us as humans. The fact that God came to be with us even though our world was more polluted than perfect shows how much He wanted to be near us. It is amazing to realize that God came to be with us even though we were all lost, hostile, and full of selfishness. Not only did God come to be with us, but He also came to save us from death, Hell, and the grave. If that does not change your view of God with you, I do not know what will.

There will be many times in your life where you feel lonely. There will be many times in your life when knowing exactly how something will turn out will be a mystery, but know the One is always with you. I cannot even begin to know how you will have to call upon Him to help, but know He is there. Know that no one knows the exact plan God has planned for them, and He does not want you to know the whole plan. He just wants you to trust Him with your next step. There will be a day when you will be with me. I am excited to know when that will be a reality. Out of all the letters, this one brings me such joy and excitement. To know one day I will have my third child, but I do not know when, creates an interesting feeling. Like the prophets of old, I do not know when you will be here, but I know one day you will be with me, and I will walk with you.

112 PATIENCE

IMMANUEL, DEVOTION 6

Michael Fox | Creative Director

ehold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.” Matthew 1:23

“BOne of the names of God in the Bible is Immanuel, which means God with Us. This month, we are talking about expecting. The ultimate expectation as a Christian is we expect Him to come back to fulfill His promises. When will He come back? That is a normal question for us to ask, as it is hard for us to comprehend fully how God works. That can take patience.

Now that I am grown and have a child of my own, I sometimes reflect on the patience my parents must have had raising me. Having patience going through trials with your children, or teaching them to have patience in situations, is a difficult task. The reward, though, when you witness your child fight through waiting and be patient for something is great. The Bible speaks about waiting on the Lord in a lot of places, and suggests that it is a good thing.

Psalm 37:9 says, “For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.” Psalm 27:14 adds, “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”

In an article by James S. Spiegel, he defines patience, “to endure discomfort without complaint.” He goes on to say, “This calls into play some other virtues, specifically, self-control, humility, and generosity.” The Bible also talks about patience as a part of the Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit

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is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

This got me thinking about what God might want to teach us through these times of patience and waiting on the Lord. Reflecting back at the name of God, Immanuel, shouts that God is with us. He does promise that He will be with us at all times, through all our trials, even when we do not want to be patient. He calls us to lean on and trust Him.

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115 06

REACH

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 6 REACH

atthew 28:19-20 is referred to as the Great Commission. It is the last two verses of the book of Matthew. Jesus has already risen from the dead, and He gets the disciples Mtogether for some final words. He says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

It is these verses that are the basis for who we are as the Church: The Church exists to glorify God by reaching the world, gathering with the saints, and growing in the Word.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,” means that we are to glorify God by reaching the world. We also reach the world by glorifying God.

What are some ways we can glorify God in our daily lives? ______

Joseph lived about 1,900 years before Jesus died on the cross. Yet, his life glorified God. There are at least four ways Joseph’s life brought glory to God.

1. Joseph brought glory to God through his work ethic.

Genesis 39:1-6 says, “Now Joseph had been brought down to Egypt, and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian, had bought him from the Ishmaelites who had brought him down there. 2 The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, and he was in the house of his

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Egyptian master. 3 His master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord caused all that he did to succeed in his hands. 4 So Joseph found favor in his sight and attended him, and he made him overseer of his house and put him in charge of all that he had. 5 From the time that he made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, the Lord blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had, in house and field. 6 So he left all that he had in Joseph's charge, and because of him he had no concern about anything but the food he ate. Now Joseph was handsome in form and appearance.”

How does this passage describe Joseph’s work ethic? ______

What are some examples on how our work ethic can “reach” others for Christ, or can turn them off to the Gospel? ______

“Our voices, our service, and our abilities are to be employed, primarily, for the glory of God.” Billy Graham

2. Joseph brought glory to God by living a godly life.

Genesis 39:6-10 records, “So he left all that he had in Joseph's charge, and because of him he had no concern about anything but the food he ate. Now Joseph was handsome in form and appearance. And after a time his master's wife cast her eyes on Joseph and said, ‘Lie with me.’ But he refused and said to

118 LESSON 6 REACH his master's wife, ‘Behold, because of me my master has no concern about anything in the house, and he has put everything that he has in my charge. He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?’ And as she spoke to Joseph day after day, he would not listen to her, to lie beside her or to be with her.”

How did Joseph live a godly life? ______

Why did Joseph live a godly life? ______

What does it mean to live a godly life today? ______

“Whatever happens at the end of the day, as long as I glorify His name, that's what it's all about.” Albert Pujols, Christian professional baseball player

3. Joseph brought glory to God by caring for others.

Genesis 40:1-8 says, “Some time after this, the cupbearer of the king of Egypt and his baker committed an offense against their lord the king of Egypt. And Pharaoh was angry with his two officers, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker, and he put

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them in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, in the prison where Joseph was confined. The captain of the guard appointed Joseph to be with them, and he attended them. They continued for some time in custody. And one night they both dreamed—the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, who were confined in the prison—each his own dream, and each dream with its own interpretation. When Joseph came to them in the morning, he saw that they were troubled. So he asked Pharaoh's officers who were with him in custody in his master's house, ‘Why are your faces downcast today?’ They said to him, ‘We have had dreams, and there is no one to interpret them.’ And Joseph said to them, ‘Do not interpretations belong to God? Please tell them to me.’”

In this passage, where was Joseph? Why? ______

How does this passage show Joseph caring about others? ______

How can and should we care for others? Who and why? ______

“What are you really living for? It’s crucial to realize that you either glorify God, or you glorify something or someone else. You’re always making something look big.” Ken Sande, author of The Peace Maker

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4. Joseph brought glory to God by giving Him credit for the things He did.

Genesis 41:15-16 says, “And Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘I have had a dream, and there is no one who can interpret it. I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.’ Joseph answered Pharaoh, ‘It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.’”

Why would Joseph give God the credit? ______

Do you like attention (credit) too much? ______

How can we give God credit when talking with others? ______

“The deepest passion of the heart of Jesus was not the saving of men, but the glory of God; and then the saving of men, because that is for the glory of God.” G. Campbell Morgan, British evangelist, preacher, and Bible scholar

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122 LIVE A LEGACY

REACH, DEVOTION 1

Kenny Hovis | Prison Ministry Director

or I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to “F the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16 I was raised in a Christian family where we attended a pretty fundamental Baptist church. My grandfather was an evangelist, church planter, published poet, avid and accomplished outdoorsman (even guided with Fred Bear), and was highly regarded in our family as a prayer warrior. All that being said, I remember him as someone who shared his faith without shame or fear. He even felt that the Lord wanted him to write a letter to every postmaster in the country to encourage them to accept Christ as their Savior. Until he passed away, most of his social security checks were spent on postage to send out those letters.

My grandfather lived in a mobile home that my parents put on their property right next to their house so they could take care of him while still giving him a measure of independence. My mom would come home between bus runs (she drove for the Goodrich schools for 35 years) and take him to the places he needed to go. He would want to go to the barber shop, drug store, post office, or just to a fast food restaurant to get out of the trailer. No matter where he was taken, he always took time to share the Gospel with someone. Many times while busy sharing his faith, he often made my mom late getting back to work. I remember her telling him one time before letting him get out of the car at the pharmacy, “Dad, I am running late. You do not have time to share the Gospel with anyone. OK?” Of course, as expected, he proceeded to share anyway.

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When I read Romans 1:16, I am reminded of my grandfather’s passion for “Reach!” I have not always been as bold as him and have fallen short when given the opportunity many times. As I take an introspective look at myself, ashamed could be an accurate adjective used to describe my efforts.

Reach, gather, and grow is our mission, passion, and call at Church. Reach may not be the most important, but I believe it is first for a reason. Reach feeds gather, which should populate grow, which should inspire the church back to reach. When we boldly share our faith in love, people should see something different about us. Many times it will open a dialogue where we will have the opportunity to be unashamed to share the Gospel.

I try to start every day now, using my grandfather as an inspiration, to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the only thing that will change people’s lives! When I get to Heaven, I want to hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Only then will I know that I did a good job with reach!

Dedicated to G.W. Hovis, soul winner, prayer warrior, pastor, evangelist, and one of my heroes.

124 CONNECT

REACH, DEVOTION 2

Roger Allen | Recovery Director

or though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To “Fthose under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.” 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

In Corinthians, Paul tells us he became all things to all people so he could save some. What might this look like today? How do we use our talents to serve others to bring them the Gospel.? Our ability to speak, encourage, and serve can make a difference. Each connection you make brings you closer to that outcome. Case in point, at one of my most recent hospital visits, I met the parents of a patient. Similar in age, I quickly connected with them. We had a similar background, mutual friends, and knowing their son was the start of a trusting relationship. I now have a chance to share the hope that is in me. Building the relationship is the key!

Our strengths and weaknesses are invaluable tools to use in outreach. We build upon the relational aspects of who we are. Avoiding the pratfalls of less than genuine conversation, we can remove the walls that divide us. Finding the common denominator that allows us to

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connect in a deeper way can be easier than we think. Epictetus said, “We have two ears and one mouth so we can listen twice as much as we speak.” Allowing the focal point to be on the person and not on us will allow an exchange of ideas that will be sincere and caring. It will become one in which we can effectively teach and connect.

On a larger scale, creating the connection to the community can look somewhat different. The modern church uses many ways to reach their neighbors. Trunk or Treat, Adventure Days, Ladies’ Tea, or social media, provide many avenues for outreach. While the purpose is the same, the approach is different. Reaching a multitude of people at the same time must be well thought out. Our neighborhoods are diverse and complex. Many hours are spent planning and developing ways that are most effective. What seems like a small event may take months to plan and implement. Relational concepts are used to reach the community. Gaining trust, we can now speak into families’ lives. It allows individual relationships to grow and prosper and will allow discipleship. Is that not what we are meant to do?

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” 2 Timothy 4:2

126 KEEP REACHING

REACH, DEVOTION 3

Katrina Young | Nursery & Pre-K Director

each for the Stars,” “The sky is the limit,” “Go for it,” “Just Do It,” “Life is a canvas – paint your dreams.” We write all these things in cards at graduation time “Rto encourage our young people to tackle life at all cost. We inspire them to give life their “all” and have no regrets! But when it comes to sharing the Gospel, do we push with the same enthusiasm?

I have heard it said, “If we are to be salt to the world we need to get out of the salt shaker.” Scripture tells us we are the salt and the light to a lost world. We are called to witness to the lost, to seek out and share the Gospel with those who are presently separated from Him.

Matthew 5:14-16 says, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

Matthew 9:37-38 adds, “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.’”

We all have people in our lives that need to be reached. Sharing the Gospel with those that are closest to us can be the most difficult. If they reject us, they reject Him. If we can get past our hesitations

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and share the reality of Jesus, who He is and what He has done in our lives, our passion will be evident. Reaching others with the same drive that we have to achieve success in our everyday life can make the stars more reachable.

Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”

The power of God unto salvation is not in us but in the Gospel, itself. All we need to do is share it, and God’s Spirit can take the Word of God and make children of God. It does not depend on us, but it is incumbent upon us to proclaim it. What if our canvas is our spiritual journey? What if we paint it with the souls that we have reached out to and they came to know Christ? What if our focus was to teach our young people to share the Gospel with the lost at all costs? What if we had no regrets?

Our job is obedience. God’s job is results.

128 FAM •I •LY

REACH, DEVOTION 4

Holly Wells | Assistant to Lead Pastor Jim Combs

s I pondered the concept of reach, the importance of reaching family quickly came to mind. I have been struggling more in this area the last couple years than probably any otherA time in my life. After all, who better for God to use than my own family? Life looks very different in my family (and within their families) when compared to one another, yet in modern America, we are the average family. My parents divorced years ago, they have since remarried, and now we are a part of a large blended family. My older, biological sister is married with two amazing kiddos whom I love and adore. In total, I have six siblings and eleven nieces and nephews. We are spread out across different states, lifestyles and beliefs widely vary, as do our relationships with one another, and some of them, I have never met.

It is said that our families are the hardest to love because they are the closest to us. Simply stated, we have a history with each other. Whether we are active or absent in each other’s lives, we are tied to one another. Most remember family dynamics growing up and have weathered various seasons of life. We witness life choices and watch character, morals, values, and priorities change throughout the years. There are families that communicate too much, and there are those who will avoid it at all costs. Family can humorously tell of “that one time when” kind of story when they share the most unimaginable, embarrassing moments and yet love each other with an unmatchable closeness. It is a closeness and bond that can also cause deep hurt, resentment, and unforgiveness that can lead to division and discord.

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2016 was a year that brought a lot of difficult change but yielded a ton of fruit in my life. The final change of the year was moving from California to Michigan out of obedience to the Lord with giant steps of faith. Though the details are for another time, my immediate family struggled with my decision. In fact, only one family member saw God at work and fully trusted His leading along with me. While this blessed my heart, overall it was quite difficult to navigate with my family, and although it has been over a year in Michigan, I am still trying to figure out how to mend some of these relationships. I have wrestled with my hurt, the “what if” scenarios, the “how come” questions, the re-play of conversations, and a whole lot more. But thankfully, God has helped me land on one overriding question, “How can I love my family better?” This is my pursuit with the Lord.

The thing is, it is not about me, and it is not about you, either. Sure, I would love the support of my family, but moreover, I seek the approval of the Lord. I pray for His help, wisdom, love, truth, and forgiveness as He reveals the areas I fall short. Though I am far from perfect and I do not have it all figured out, I do know that He has called me to love my family unconditionally because God loves me this way.

Here is the deal: God loves us with an everlasting love, and He is faithful (Jeremiah 31:3). His “big picture vision” is that my family would know Him personally and walk with Him daily. Matthew 18:12- 14 explains that He leaves the 99 to go after the one. Each person and each life is important to Him! If I am so caught up in my feelings and consumed with discouragement, then I am not available to the Lord should He desire to use me in their lives and the enemy wins (remember Ephesians 6:12). We are shown how to walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh in Galatians 5:16-21. We are also instructed to be peacemakers and to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving because Christ forgave us (Romans 12:18, Matthew 5:8, Ephesians

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4:32, see also Galatians 5:22-25). We are encouraged to “not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9, NKJV). John 6:44 tells us, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” We need to continue to pray for our family while remembering salvation comes from God alone, not through your efforts. Pray that your family would have a desire for God. Pray they would recognize their need for Him and they would respond by asking Him to be their Lord and Savior. Pray they would know Him and love Him with their whole heart, mind, soul, and strength. Pray the Lord would send someone to speak His words into their life. Finally, be consistent in loving them right where they are and do not give up because God never gave up on you. Who knows, God may want to use you to reach your family or even someone else’s.

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132 PHONY JOY

REACH, DEVOTION 5

Josh Lahring | Production Director

here was a commercial I saw some time ago that made me think of how we should be sharing Jesus with others. It is called ‘Sparklers’ by Verizon. Now you might think, “How did Ta phone commercial make you think about that?” You can check out the commercial on YouTube if you would like.

It simply starts out with one person holding a sparkler and then they light another person’s sparkler. Then that person lights another, and they light another and another. I think you are getting the picture. Next thing you know, there is a whole street full of people with sparklers lighting up the whole dark town, all looking excited.

It is what is said in this commercial that I believe if we Christians understood we would be telling everyone about Jesus. It simply says, “When you experience something great, you want to share it with everyone.”

This statement is so true about the way we are with phones and gadgets. How often are we so excited about a new phone or gadget that we feel like it changes our life that we tell all our friends and anyone we encounter. We do not even care if they do not listen or have no interest, we just go say, “Hey, look at what I just got! It is so awesome! You should get one too!”

However, as Christians, our greatest joy that we will ever experience is Christ! Are we not as excited to share Him with our friends and others more than something like a phone?

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Have you experienced the great love of Christ so much that you just want everyone else to experience it? That is why we should want to share it with everyone.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

134 THE “END” ZONE

REACH, DEVOTION 6

Brett Eberle | Production Director

can remember getting the opportunity to preach my first sermon. I was part of a class being put on by some of the pastors of the church, and they gave everybody in the class the same topic Iand five minutes to preach the sermon. I do not remember how the sermon went, but I am sure it was not very good. What I do remember is the topic lighting a fire within me that no matter what I do will not go out. The fire that was lit inside of me was the desire to share the Gospel.

The statement that I am about to make may get me in trouble, but I am going to make it anyway. I do not like that we use the word “Reach” in the vision statement for our church, in my mind it sounds too nice. In my opinion, it gives believers an excuse. Believers will say, “I tried to get through to them” and statements along those lines which mean I reached, but I just could not grab them. I had the opportunity to coach a football team this year and what I did not expect was that I learned as much or more than I taught the players. One of the things that I learned was that I have a major issue with what we call arm tackling. Arm tackling is when you reach for someone to avoid the collision and attempt to drag them down instead of planting your shoulder into them and driving them to the ground with everything that you have.

One of our Student Pastors showed me a quote by Charles Spurgeon a few years ago that has become a constant reminder in my life. The quote was, “If sinners be damned, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies. And if they perish, let them perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be

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filled, let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go unwarned and unprayed for.”

Since the day that I preached my first sermon, I have treated reach like a goal-line situation in football. I treat it as if I am the only person standing between them and hell and I will do anything in my power to stop them from making it into that end zone. So I challenge you, if there is someone in your life that you have only attempted to arm tackle, plant your feet on the goal line and give it everything that you have because who knows, you may be the only person who stands between them and eternal damnation.

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137 07

GATHER

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 7 GATHER

It is these verses that are the basis for who we are as the Church: The Church exists to glorify God by reaching the world, gathering with the saints, and growing in the Word.

“Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” shows how we can glorify God by gathering with the saints.

Baptism is not the only aspect of a “gathering.” What else is involved with gathering together with the saints? ______

Baptism is not referred to in the book of Genesis, but Joseph’s words, life, and actions display a mindset consistent with that of a gathering. There are at least three principles that we can examine from the life of Joseph when it comes to gathering together.

1. Gathering with others brings a sense of comradery.

Taking on a project together helps create community and a sense of comradery. Joseph’s brothers took on a road trip to help save the family. Gatherings bring comradery in worshipping the Lord together, but also in taking on projects to reach others.

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Genesis 42:1-5 says, “When Jacob learned that there was grain for sale in Egypt, he said to his sons, ‘Why do you look at one another?’ And he said, ‘Behold, I have heard that there is grain for sale in Egypt. Go down and buy grain for us there, that we may live and not die.’ So ten of Joseph's brothers went down to buy grain in Egypt. But Jacob did not send Benjamin, Joseph's brother, with his brothers, for he feared that harm might happen to him. Thus the sons of Israel came to buy among the others who came, for the famine was in the land of Canaan.”

Why did only ten of the twelve sons travel? ______

Why did the ten travel together? ______

How does this relate to Church gatherings? ______

“Church attendance is as vital to a disciple as a transfusion of rich, healthy blood to a sick man.” Dwight L. Moody

2. Gathering together brings safety through accountability.

It can be dangerous to travel alone in life. You can intentionally or accidentally start to slip. Joseph did not have a choice, but since he was alone, he had no one to watch his back. Gathering together

140 LESSON 7 GATHER helps us create a relationship with likeminded people. We start serving together, and in essence, we push each other to a new level.

Genesis 39:11-12 says, “But one day, when he went into the house to do his work and none of the men of the house was there in the house, she caught him by his garment, saying, ‘Lie with me.’ But he left his garment in her hand and fled and got out of the house.”

Joseph may not have had a choice, but what are some advantages of not walking alone? ______

Who watches out for you? Who do you trust to tell you the truth? ______

Who do you hold accountable? ______

“For years I thought my assignment or the Church's assignment was to articulate the Gospel and nothing more. Now I believe that if we don't support the verbal expression of the Gospel with physical demonstration of compassion, we are not imitating Jesus.” Max Lucado

3. Gathering together brings love and a sense of family.

Not everyone has a family. Some have a family but they live far away, or it is not a healthy relationship. Gathering together creates a family.

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We need each other. We worship, serve, and live life together. Love is created and developed. Joseph brought the family back together.

Genesis 45:9-11 adds, “Hurry and go up to my father and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; do not tarry. You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me, you and your children and your children's children, and your flocks, your herds, and all that you have. There I will provide for you, for there are yet five years of famine to come, so that you and your household, and all that you have, do not come to poverty.’”

What needed to happen in Joseph’s life and heart in order to have family together? ______

What are the advantages of having family together? ______

How does this relate to your Church family? ______

“I hate how hard spiritual transformation is and how long it takes. I hate thinking about how many people have gone to church for decades and remain joyless or judgmental or bitter or superior.” John Ortberg

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Hebrews 10:24-25 is the central passage concerning the gathering of the saints. It says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

What elements of a gathering are referenced here? ______

How does the life of Joseph show the concept of gatherings? ______

How could the life of Joseph had been different if he had a better “support group?” ______

What did Martin Luther mean when he said, “For where God built a church, there the Devil would also build a chapel?” ______

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144 TO GO OR NOT TO GO?

GATHER, DEVOTION 1

Pat Bedell | Special Projects

hen I think about what “gather” means to me, I think about seeing my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. I think about making memories and enjoying fellowship. WI think about loving their kids as my own and sharpening my biblical knowledge to fight against Satan. I think about having the opportunity to bless someone, but in the end, I am the one who is blessed. But that was not always the case.

I lived in Saginaw for ten years and was part of a great church. I was married in that church. I never really had much of an issue attending on Sunday mornings and the occasional Wednesday night worship service once a month. Outside of those normal gathering times, I did not want much to do with the people of the church. I had my circle of friends, and I did not want to subject myself to the growth communities the church had to offer.

It was about four years ago that I moved to Fenton and started a new journey with my wife in this area. We had been looking for a new church to attend and came across The River. We had our speculations but the message was raw, and you could feel God stir something up in your soul every time that you attended. It was not long after that that we made The River our home church and began attending weekly.

At first, we were blown away by the size of the gatherings. There were hundreds and hundreds of people if not a thousand people there, and it was quite hard to make new friends. It was a few years down the road, my wife asked me about joining a growth community.

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I was immediately skeptical of the idea, but at this point in our lives, we did not have many friends in the area, and the church was trying to push us out of our comfort zone. They were successful.

My wife and I have been a part of a growth community now for two years and not only has it been a huge blessing in our lives, more importantly, it is what God commands us to do.

1 Corinthians 14:26 says, “What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.”

Doing the study each week with my wife helps us learn about God but also learn about one another. Coming to the weekly growth community, everyone chips in their perspective on the study and brings a whole new realm of knowledge to the table.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 adds, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”

Everyone in the growth community could use some prayer. Everyone has their struggles and their battles that they are experiencing. It is always a great feeling knowing that you have brothers and sisters in Christ fighting and praying for you during the most difficult times.

Hebrews 10:25 summarizes it, “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

This was one of the hardest habits for me to break. Meeting with people I did not care to know and doing a Bible study with them was not my idea of fun. But now, even missing a week with these “people” is heartbreaking. Now it is a habit of mine to always meet with and encourage all of my fellow believers.

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Gathering for the first time in our growth community was intimidating at first, but the hospitality of the hosts of the growth communities makes meeting people and sharing your story less intimidating. Since joining, strangers have become friends, and friends have become family. I could not imagine not being part of one now. More importantly, my wife and I have become stronger followers of God and have truly been blessed by those around us.

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148 RECOVERING THE VALUE OF GATHERING

GATHER, DEVOTION 2

Max Sinclair | Children's Director

s we have seen the importance of reaching into our communities, we as The Church must look at the importance of “gathering” together as a community. This idea is not somethingA that we can ignore, the importance of coming together is something that has been talked about by Christ Himself, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20). The very idea that God would be among us when we are gathered in His name should make everyone excited to gather in worship, yet historically we are seeing a record decline of church attendance with less than 20% of Americans attending a church service or gathering according to churchleaders.com. Why is this happening? Churches are on a decline because believers do not understand the power of gathering together. We would rather go when it is convenient. People want to hear something that may make them feel good about their lives rather than hear the realness of God at work in our real life.

Something that has surprisingly been on my mind and dear to my heart is the recovery gathering on Tuesday night here in Waterford. It is heartwarming to see these men and women who are struggling with a real problem. For them to come and beg to hear the Word of God poured out is moving.

This story starts in a very stereotypical way where I met a girl, and she has a passion for these hurting people. She had invited me to come and see what was happening here at Waterford on Tuesday nights. At first, I was very hesitant thinking that I would have nothing in common with these people. Later, I found out that I had more in

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common than I thought, what was just a night has become a pivotal and important part of both me and my now wife's life. This story is not just to promote something that we do in the church, but to show how they gathered: broken, distraught, sadden, and labored. This very intimate way that they had gathered was not met with judgment or contempt but with love. We find that these things are not to deter us from entering but to encourage us to go. Something that my wife and I say all the time is that we are all broken people here on earth. Going through life and pointing out others’ brokenness does not help, but humbling and building each other up will.

I am going to get very personal, know my heart when I say that this angers me: we would rather sit on our high horse of churchiness and look down on those who try to enter because they are different. It breaks my heart to see people who serve judge those who have “problems.” Well I am sorry, but you have problems too, you are just better at hiding them. We are to lay that all aside as Paul states in Colossians, “Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all” (Colossians 3:11). We are all the same to Christ, all of our sins are equal in His eyes, yet He loves anyway. So, I encourage you to gather together in worship to Him, humbly stirring-up each other as we go through life together.

150 WHY?

GATHER, DEVOTION 3

Danielle Hardenburg | Nursery & Pre-K Director

was one of those “why?” kids. God bless my dad for being the “answer” dad. I remember driving in the car and asking every I single question that popped into my head. “Why do they put chloride on the dirt roads? How does a TV work? Why is there water under the ground? Does a chicken run around after you chop off its head? Why do I have to go to school? How does a car run on gas and not blow up?”

Like most kiddos, I always questioned everything. Why do we do this? Why do we go here? What is the point of all this? Dad could always explain things so I could understand. The what, where, and why was just always on my mind. It is funny how with time and age things just become the norm. After growing up and having a few “why” kiddos of my own, I fully appreciate my dad’s patience! Also, I have a great appreciation for the mind of a kiddo who sees things as “why?”

One of my young family’s many “why?” conversations turned to church and “Why do we go every week?” You know, during one of those late start, struggling to get out the door, frustrated, irritated, mad dash Sunday mornings. I am always in awe of those moments God uses to shift our viewpoint to what is important despite our frantic pace. Successfully getting everyone strapped into the car (with or without a coat and both shoes) brought me to the point where I could respond to their questions and honestly, some of my own (“Why am I doing this?” - One Tired Mama). We talked about how important it is to gather together as a family to share a meal

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around the table daily. We talked about how we come together with our loved ones for all sorts of celebrations. I said to them, “We gather to celebrate births and mourn our losses at funerals. We gather together to learn in classes. We often come together to lift each other up, when life hands us something unexpected. Sometimes we gather to just have some fun and laughs. We choose so many times to come together because it is incredibly special to us. When we come together as a church, we get to do all those things and praise our amazing God who made us - every week!” By the time I was done saying these things that God had given me, we all had smiles on our faces and my frustration had just melted away.

I am blessed so often when explaining the “whys” to my kids. It regularly refreshes my mind and confirms things I did not realize where I needed a real reminder. How wonderful it is to gather together! God made us the church. It is not a building, not a time slot, not a weekly obligation, but a blessing to gather and form the body of Christ and praise our awesome God!

152 BE KNOWN

GATHER, DEVOTION 4

Jen Combs | Women's Ministry

love Sundays. I love our people. I love gathering together to worship the Lord. The Bible says in 1 John 3:14, “We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the Ibrothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.” This simply means that if we know Jesus as our Savior, we will love and care for other believers. If gathering together is a chore, we might want to check our salvation.

I sit on Sundays and watch our people, my heart just gushes for them. I know them. I know their stories. I know their hurts, their struggles, and their losses. I know their victories, their successes, and their blessings. I have cried with them, laughed with them, buried them, married them, welcomed new babies with them, and counseled them. This list could continue but what I am trying to say is BE KNOWN. Do not just come to gatherings to sneak in and out. We are meant to come and listen to God’s Word, sing to Him our praises, and encourage each other in this pursuit of holiness. It is not easy, but it is made easier when you are known. I would encourage you this weekend when you come to a gathering to look for an opportunity to meet someone new. Sit in a different seat (gasp, I know), pray that the Lord will direct you to a new family, introduce yourself to a staff person and say to yourself, “I need to be a part here.”

There are all sorts of ways to be involved in a gathering. Serving in a gathering is a great place to start to be known. Rock some babies in the nursery and chat with fellow workers. Serve on the greeting team; you cannot help but get to know people there. Volunteer

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for security. Lead some songs in the children's ministry. Help with checking in our kids; this is the best way to get to know families and names. These are just a few ideas.

So today we need to assess:

1. Do I love and care for other believers? 2. Do I enjoy gathering with the church? 3. Am I known? 4. How am I going to get to know fellow believers this week?

154 WHAT IS IN A NAME?

GATHER, DEVOTION 5

Holly Boston | Women's Ministry Director

hat do you call going to “church?” Some call it “Mass.” Some call it “Church.” Others call it a “Service.” Then you have: “Traditional Service,” “Contemporary Service,” W“Worship Service,” and a host of other titles. The list goes on and on. When my church started calling it a “Gathering,” I had two questions: Does the name matter, and how am I going to remember another new name? Habits die hard.

As I sat down to write this devotion, I realized my view of “going to church” has changed. Years ago, my family and I faithfully attended church each Sunday. Being early birds, we would arrive 15 minutes early and find an empty parking lot and wonder if the church was closed for the day. Fifteen minutes later there was not a parking spot or a seat in the sanctuary left. No one took their coats off, and we were greeted with a less than sincere “Good morning.” After the service, there was a mad rush for the door, and fifteen minutes later not a soul could be found. I also remember being told that if you missed certain portions of the service “it did not count.” Though people religiously attended, it was abundantly clear that attending church was no more than an opportunity to check something off the “to do” list.

Years later, by the grace of God, my family and I began attending a Bible believing, teaching church. It was then that I experienced a community of believers.

Acts 2:42 describes the early church, “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”

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Together we studied the Word of God. I learned how to apply it to my life, and I received encouragement from others struggling with similar circumstances. I found people who sincerely cared for me, prayed for me, and even noticed if I had been absent.

Acts 2:44 continues, “And all who believed were together and had all things in common.” Every week I was eager to go to church. I was eager to receive that nugget from God that would carry me through the week. I was eager to hear the encouraging words of a friend who sincerely asked me how I was doing and told me that she had prayed for me throughout the week. I finally had found my home and had all I needed (All great biblical stuff, but did you notice how many times I used the word “I” or “me?”).

Then I became Director of Women’s Ministry and things began to change. Suddenly, I was missing my worship time because someone needed prayer or information. The messages were all about “What the church is not” and the need to get involved; not something with which I was struggling. I started to get bugged when my worship was interrupted, or the message was not deep enough. About that time, our church changed the name of our services to “Gatherings” and the process of teaching me the true meaning of church began.

Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Ouch! I realized it was not all about me. I am there to do the encouraging, the serving, and the praying with others. The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.” I guess in this instance the name was important because it has taught me the true meaning of going to

156 LESSON 7 DEVOTION 5 church, but ultimately what you do with going to church is what matters and “counts.”

Finally, Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

Wow! For years I was missing the boat. We must always keep in mind that we may be the only face of Christ to someone around us. Do not miss a single opportunity to encourage another.

Eternity Counts!

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158 NOT FORSAKING

GATHER, DEVOTION 6

Jill Osmon | Assistant to Lead Pastor Joshua Combs

ebrews 10:25 in the King James Version is, quite honestly, a little intimidating, a little bold, and a little unrelenting, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.” HGrowing up in a pretty strict, conservative Baptist church, this verse was wielded around with some power. I attended church, for a long time, out of an obligation. It was not out of a passion to learn or to be surrounded by other Christians, but as a check on my “to-do” Christian list that I had made up in my mind. I failed to read the verses before verse 25 and really the entirety of verse 25. When you put the verse in context, it is not a demand to be wielded but an answer to your sometimes hurting soul that is being beaten up out in the world. It is important to take a closer look to those verses, see what gathering with saints really does for us, and why God commands us to not put this off or leave it in our childhood.

Hebrews 10:19-22 says, “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” This is a beautiful way to say we have a completely open road straight to God. We no longer have to go through a priest, we no longer have a curtain that separates us from God, and we have “Confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus,” through the cross we have direct access to God. We should celebrate this liberty; we should be joyful and thankful to be able to go to God with no impediments.

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With the idea of having direct access to God in mind, verses 23-25, for me seem different. It is no longer a demand but a promise from someone that is the definition of faithful God. Verses 23-25 are one thought, and they say, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” See God knew that we needed each other, that we needed a time, a community to help us love each other, love those that are hard to love, and to do good. We do not naturally do good, or love people. We need help, and God answered that need in the church.

Do not forget why we gather together, not as a line item on our to-do list to be checked off but to encourage us, remind us how and why we should do good and love each other and others.

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161 08

GROW

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 8 GROW

It is these verses that are the basis for who we are as the Church: The Church exists to glorify God by reaching the world, gathering with the saints, and growing in the Word.

“Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” challenges us to glorify God by growing in our walk with the Lord.

Joseph did not have a copy of the Bible. He could not read, study, memorize, and meditate on Bible verses. However, he knew God, grew in Him, and walked in His ways.

How did Joseph learn about God? ______

It has been said that the only Bible some people may read is our lives. This can be very challenging, but a great reminder.

Genesis 37:5-8 speaks of another way Joseph learned about God, “Now Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more. He said to them, ‘Hear this dream that I have dreamed: Behold, we were binding sheaves in the

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field, and behold, my sheaf arose and stood upright. And behold, your sheaves gathered around it and bowed down to my sheaf.’ His brothers said to him, ‘Are you indeed to reign over us? Or are you indeed to rule over us?’ So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words.”

What did Joseph’s dream mean? ______

Why do you think he had the dream? ______

What do you think about him sharing the dream with his brothers? ______

As you may already know, the dream does not go well with his brothers. They grab him, throw him in a pit, and devise a plan to kill him. They take his special coat and put blood on it so that dad will think Joseph was killed by animals. Their plan changes and instead of killing him, they sell him into slavery. He becomes a slave in a high ranking man's house. He is a good worker. The wife of the official flirts with Joseph and even makes a move. He refuses her advances and runs. She frames him, and he is thrown in prison.

A couple of things happen in prison. Finally, Genesis 41:46 records that Joseph was released, “Joseph was thirty years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph went

164 LESSON 8 GROW out from the presence of Pharaoh and went through all the land of Egypt.”

How long do you think Joseph was in prison? ______

Why did God allow Joseph to stay in prison? ______

Why do bad things happen to godly people? ______

Prison can be the pit of despair, or it can be a time to think, be still, grow, and spend time with God. Joseph's brothers betrayed him. Potiphar's wife framed him. Friends (butcher and butler) forgot him. However, Joseph is not bitter.

After all he went through, it is interesting to see what he named his sons. Genesis 41:50-52 shows how Joseph’s sons’ names reveal his perspective of his journey, “Before the year of famine came, two sons were born to Joseph. Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, bore them to him. Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh. ‘For,’ he said, ‘God has made me forget all my hardship and all my father's house.’ The name of the second he called Ephraim, ‘For God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.’”

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What name did or will you give your child? Why? ______

What does Joseph’s sons’ names say about him? ______

Joseph has been out of prison for nine years when he meets his brothers again. He does not refer to his dreams as a child. Instead, Genesis 45:4-8 records the interaction, “So Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Come near to me, please.’ And they came near. And he said, ‘I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt.’”

How many times does Joseph refer to God? ______

How does this interaction relate to growth? ______

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Meditation is an important part of spiritual growth. We need to regularly think about and like God. Joseph had time to think. Instead of throwing himself a pity party, he focused on God and His plan.

Finally, Genesis 50:15-21 records what might be Joseph’s crowning moment (he had many), “When Joseph's brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, ‘It may be that Joseph will hate us and pay us back for all the evil that we did to him.’ So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, ‘Your father gave this command before he died: ‘Say to Joseph, ‘Please forgive the transgression of your brothers and their sin, because they did evil to you.’’ And now, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.’ Joseph wept when they spoke to him. His brothers also came and fell down before him and said, ‘Behold, we are your servants.’ But Joseph said to them, ‘Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.’ Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.”

How does forgiveness relate to growth? ______

Can one grow with unforgiveness in their heart? ______

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

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168 STRENGTH OVER SWAYED

GROW, DEVOTION 1

Mark O'Connor | Student Director

or this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control “Fwith steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:5-8

This passage sticks with me for one reason. I have spent more than a few years of my life being ineffective and unfruitful. It took me a long time, a lot of anxiety and stress to come to the point where I realized this was the state of my life. It was not until I decided that I needed to take the time to study and get to know the Word of God that these feeling started to dissipate. Do not get me wrong; they still pop up from time to time. Now the thought of being ineffective or unfruitful scares me.

There is a calling that God has placed on all of us to mature in our faith. Paul, speaking to the entire body of the church in Ephesus, not just the church leaders or staff, tells us to grow and mature. Ephesians 4:14-15 says, “So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.”

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He tells them to not be like a child, grow up in every way. Do not be swayed by any small shift in the wind but stand firm in the Word. The only way to do that is to know it.

You are responsible for that growth in your life, and it takes dedication and consistency in how you spend time with God and in the Bible. Use the people around you in the church. There is a saying that I like a lot that says, “Circles are better than rows.” You can learn from the people you serve with and worship with by opening God’s Word and exploring it together. We need to get away from our immature, high school thought of just doing enough (at least that was true of me), and start digging into, studying, and then applying God’s Word into our life.

170 BRANCHING OUT IN FAITH

GROW, DEVOTION 2

Max Sinclair | Children's Director

hen I hear the word “growth,” I immediately picture a tree with deep roots and branches that reach high up into the sky. I usually think of one that is at my parents’ house. WIts trunk is about six feet wide and stretches probably around 50-60 feet high. Just looking at it and thinking about it makes me wonder how long it took for this tree to grow and how strong it must be.

It reminds me of a parable Jesus taught in Matthew 17:20, “He said to them, ‘Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.’”

Many before me have used this very same passage to talk about growth and that it takes faith. We forget that our growth stems from our faith. Right now as I write this devotion, I know that God is at work in the life of my wife and I. He is trying to show us that faith is far more important and impactful than what we truly understand. You see, she and I have been so blessed with the ability to own a house and live in a nice town that even though it is far from where we both work, we can make it work. Even though we are very blessed, we will be starting to go out on faith. My wife’s job that pays very well is not what God has placed on her life to do, so she will be leaving to pursue a graduate degree in counseling and work with addicts which is what she and I believe that God has planned for her. As we stress and worry about how this all will work, we keep coming to the same conclusion, God is able, and He will be there.

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We have begun to put more and more of our life in His hand, and it is scary. We here in America have been blessed with abundance, and we have been given so many great things, but we fail to give it back to God. We would rather maintain some semblance of control instead of handing it off to God. Then we became stressed and overwhelmed with the idea of being the “god” of our own lives when He even says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

When we truly see and realize this, then we can grow in Him. You see Christ gives us this peace beyond understanding as Paul says in Philippians. We are to grow in this knowledge of who He is by being faithful and having faith in our Lord.

So how can you grow in your faith?

172 LOVE BRINGS GROWTH

GROW, DEVOTION 3

Matthew Darden | Facilities

or scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in “Fthat, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:7-8 (KJV)

People define growth in many ways. At its very basic definition growth is the breaking down of something over and over causing it to strengthen. The result far exceeds the starting point. Often in my own life, I have looked to grow without experiencing the pains that accompany the process. These pains vary but can be things as simple as discomfort or irritating circumstances. Other times they can be complicated such as letting go of the hurt and bitterness you have been harboring. In my personal life, I have struggled with both of course, but the release of pain and anger was the most difficult to process. We see in verse 8 that “God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” This love was given to me before I was born, during my years of rebellion and self-indulgence, up until the point of salvation, and will continue through the remainder of my days on this earth. It is a love I did not and do not deserve, forgiveness I had no ability to earn.

Job chapter 14 says man that is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. Growing up in the chaos and dysfunction of the drug world I witnessed and experienced much trouble. This trouble broke my family down separating my siblings and parents. My father got off of drugs for a time and made an effort to be a parent. However, my mother never did. In her selfishness and dysfunction, she did

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not fulfill her role as a parent. As a pre-teen and teenager, this was something that gnawed at me causing a lot of bitterness and confusion. Time continued, circumstances changed, and as my mother got sick, I moved in to take care of her. For the first time, I began to see my mother not as a woman who had failed me only but as a person. She is a person who had influences and enablers who helped to lead her astray in life, a person who was raised by a selfish addict of a mom, and a person who was broken and confused. Where no light dwells, there is only darkness.

In pursuing my relationship with Christ, I experienced light and illuminated many flaws I had within myself and things I would have to get past to grow. Forgiving my mother was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. But remember that we are called to love as Christ loves us and recall what He did for me in my brokenness. He gave me strength and endurance to face the process of that growth. The result will be an improvement.

174 GOT WORD?

GROW, DEVOTION 4

Kyle Wendel | Children & Student's Director

ou will often hear the terms “Reach, Gather, and Grow” here at The River Church. We believe these three principles are a key thing for the church. Each member should consistently Ybe doing their best to achieve these in their lives.

In focusing on growing, 1 Peter 2:2 says, “Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation.”

We all know that children are supposed to be constantly growing in their lives physically. If they are not, we start to figure out why and try to address the problem. Infants need their milk to grow properly and become the toddlers they are meant to become. Toddlers and children need their fruits and veggies to grow as they should.

Children are constantly growing and need select food to do so. Our spirituality is the same way. We need our nutrients to grow. One of our nutrients, in a spiritual sense, is the Word of God. We need to be in the Word to be growing as the Bible has called us to do. We never see in the Bible that God wants us to stay stagnant in our walk with Him. We see over and over He wants us to grow and know Him deeper. If we are not growing, we are not doing what God has called us to do.

Do you long for the Word of God in your life? It is a simple truth but one that we often do not find in our lives. If the Word of God is not found in our lives, we are not growing. To grow, you need food, and the Bible is our food. If you want to do what God wants, then you

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need to be in His Word. His word will change your life. The more time you spend reading, the more you will grow as a follower.

I want to challenge you to dive into the Word today. Take a few minutes away from your phone and distractions and just read. You will be amazed how much you can learn and grow if you just spend a few minutes every day in the Bible. I challenge you to go and do as the Lord says. Grow and become more mature. Do not stay as an infant never growing. We all know that a 20-year-old should not look the same as an infant, right? So why do we do that with our relationship with the Lord?

176 WALK THIS WAY

GROW, DEVOTION 5

John Hubbard | Worship Leader

hen I hear the word “grow,” my first thought is always to a plant, a vegetable, or even something like a tree. Our faith starts as a small seed and grows deeper into the Wsoil and sprouts up from the ground, and it begins to bear fruit once it is mature. I have been intrigued by another example of growth in Scripture, walking. God walked with Adam and Eve, Enoch walked with God, and Noah walked with God. Proverbs chapter 9 refers to Wisdom as walking in the way of insight.

“Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight. Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight” Proverbs 9:6-10

This verse reassures us that having wisdom is not what makes you wise; a wise man is one who loves reproof and instruction. Our mentors, pastors, and, as much as you do not want to believe it, spouses are going to give you reproof and especially instruction. How are you going to receive that critique, with hostility or humility? God will use many things to refine us, do not push away from those people in your life who are constantly in the Word. A lot of the time we feel like we are learning more of the Word to be better at arguing against our opponents, or to prove to our fellow church people how much higher our path is and how much narrower our gate is. That is

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just not the case; argue with a scoffer or a wicked man and no good will come of it.

Jeremiah 9:23-24 says, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.’”

We are learning more of the Word to continue to die to self and to walk with God daily. Each day we decide, “Am I going to live for me today or am I going to live for God?” Growth comes when we choose to walk with God, and when we are not afraid to get involved with a community of believers that are striving to do the same.

178 GET UP AND GROW

GROW, DEVOTION 6

Pat MacDermaid | Clothing Closet

row is a small word that means so much. A newborn baby grows fast from infant to toddler, child, pre-teen, teenager, and finally to a fully grown adult. They are learning and Gchanging along the way.

In 2 Peter 3:18, we read, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” How do we do that? One thing we need to do is read God’s Holy Book. It is important to pray for understanding and wisdom to grow from what we are reading. Another excellent way to grow is to join a Growth Community Bible Study. One will learn a lot and meet other people who also want to grow.

Growing in Christ is not only reading the Word of God, but it is also living the Word of God. Prayer is another way we grow in Christ. The conversations we have with Him will help us to know what He would have us pray. It may be an individual, group of people, situation, or our country. Get used to asking Him to direct your prayer life and He will. Spend more time praying for others than yourself; He knows what you need.

You can grow more like Jesus by acts of kindness, a smile, holding a door for someone, and saying, “Thank you.” Take someone’s cart back for them. Cut someone’s grass.

Jesus did so many kind things. He fed thousands of people before He sent them home. He healed the sick and brought dead people back to their loved ones.

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Kindness matters. I remember a lady who spoke to my heart. Before I came to serve at the Community Center, I managed the local video store. She was my first customer. One morning, she came in the door and went right to the back wall, got a movie, and came to the counter. As she got close to the counter, I could see she was wearing a very pretty pair of earrings. I told her how pretty they were. She paid for her movie and left. The next morning the phone rang; it was the lady from the previous day. She said, “I don’t know if you remember, but I was at the video store yesterday, and you complimented me on my earrings.” I told her I remembered and asked if I could help her with something. She replied, “I have been up all night thinking about how kind you had been to me. I have been feuding with my family for the last two weeks, and you were the first person in two weeks that has said a kind word to me. I had to call and thank you.” Kindness matters.

That phone call touched my heart. When she comes to my mind, I always say a prayer for her and her family. Growth is a process, a lifelong thing. There are many ways to grow, and kindness is a good place to start.

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181 09 BACK TO REACH

DR. RANDY T. JOHNSON, GROWTH PASTOR LESSON 9 BACK TO REACH

It is these verses that are the basis for who we are as the Church: The Church exists to glorify God by reaching the world, gathering with the saints, and growing in the Word. This process is not a straight line with an ending point. It is more like a spiral as we reach, gather, and grow because we should then want to be reaching more of the world, even more excited to worship with believers, and realizing the need to grow in the Lord through Bible knowledge, understanding, and application. Serving is a key element for going back to reach.

How does growing in the Lord help us reach the world? ______

Serving the Lord is not just a New Testament concept. Joshua 24:15 is a verse many have framed and hanging on a wall in their house. It says, “And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua is calling the people to follow the Lord.

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Why do you think he uses the word “serve” instead of follow? ______

Joseph led a life of service. As a child, he served his dad taking care of the flocks. He then spent time in Potiphar's house and prison. He served others. Finally, he was placed in a high position where he was able to serve even more people.

There are at least three lessons that can be learned from Joseph about serving.

1. Serve even when you do not feel like it.

Think through Genesis 39:1-6: “Now Joseph had been brought down to Egypt, and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian, had bought him from the Ishmaelites who had brought him down there. The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, and he was in the house of his Egyptian master. His master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord caused all that he did to succeed in his hands. So Joseph found favor in his sight and attended him, and he made him overseer of his house and put him in charge of all that he had. From the time that he made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, the Lord blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had, in house and field. So he left all that he had in Joseph's charge, and because of him he had no concern about anything but the food he ate. Now Joseph was handsome in form and appearance.”

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What were you like as a seventeen-year-old? ______

If you were Joseph in this story, what would your mindset have been? ______

When was a time you served when you did not feel like it? ______

When are some times when you do not feel like serving? ______

Joseph was forced to be a servant, but he still worked hard. We are all accountable to someone. It may be someone we do not like or respect, but Ephesians 6:5-7 says, “Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people- pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man.”

What are some principles of service from this verse? ______

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Joseph served even when most would have refused. He did not just do enough so he would not be punished. He worked so well that he was placed in a position of leadership. Even while in prison, he rose to the top. He served even when the circumstances were not optimal. He served when he did not feel like it. He did not cut corners. It is clear that he also served wholeheartedly.

2. Serve wholeheartedly.

Some serve for appearance sake. They might be going through the motions on the outside, but their heart is not in it. People could count on Joseph. When Joseph saw his brothers slacking, they could not refute his argument by saying he was slacking, too. He was consistent.

Again, looking into the Old Testament, 1 Chronicles 28:9 says, “And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever.”

What does it mean to serve wholeheartedly? ______

Why is serving wholeheartedly so important? ______

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Joseph served when he did not feel like it. He served wholeheartedly. Also, he served his father, Potiphar, the prison guard, the Pharaoh, but most importantly the Lord.

3. Serve as to the Lord.

The key to serving is to focus on an audience of One. No matter whether few or thousands are watching, our desired audience should be the Lord. Even though no one may see, recognize, or acknowledge our work, we should do our best. God sees it!

Joshua 22:5 says it well, “Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments and to cling to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.”

How do love and service go together? ______

Joseph served his father, Potiphar, the prison guard, the Pharaoh, but most importantly the Lord.

Colossians 3:23-24 adds, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

Put these verses into your own words. ______

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______

Finally, we are challenged not only by the life of Joseph but also the life of Jesus. Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

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189 LESSON 9 BACK TO REACH

190 ACTION AND OBEDIENCE

BACK TO REACH, DEVOTION 1

Debbie Gabbara | Assistant to the Gathering Pastor

y grandmother was a huge influence in my life, and she was a beautiful example of a humble servant. She taught me that it was important to be involved in God’s work. MShe was a quiet woman who taught children in Sunday School to love Jesus and know the stories of God’s Word. She taught me the importance of serving. I am so thankful for all that I learned as I served alongside her.

The Bible has a lot to say about serving. The Bible study notes from biblereferenceguide.com say that the word “serve,” “servant,” and “service” occur in the Bible well over 1,100 times. The text continues, “In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for servant, ‘ebed,’ contains at least two key ingredients: Action (the servant as ‘worker’) and Obedience.”

Action and Obedience: It is easy to understand that serving requires action, as you are usually actively doing something when you serve. We do not necessarily think of obedience when we think about serving. In His Word, God tells us over and over to serve. Commandments require obedience.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

This verse in Ephesians is very clear. God has work for us all to do, specific work that was prepared just for us. It is about good works! God has great expectations for each one of us.

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“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38

We cannot out give God! He challenges us to give generously. God wants to lavishly give back to us. Invest your time, your energy, and your talents and God will give back to you in ways that you never imagined possible.

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24

God asks us to be obedient, work willingly, and do all things as if we are doing it for Him. I know that when I get to Heaven, I want to hear my Savior say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” We are serving Christ Jesus! He went to the cross for us and paid the debt for all of our sins. We could never repay all that Jesus has done for us. We should want to serve Him well all of our days.

“For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do.” Hebrews 6:10

God will remember what we have done to serve Him. He sees the love that we share when we serve others.

“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16

You have a lot to share! We all do, and it pleases God when we do!

What better reason could we need to serve?

192 MARTHA AND MARY

BACK TO REACH, DEVOTION 2

Larry Gabbara | Financial Bookkeeper

nd if you will indeed obey my commandments that I command you today, to love the LORD your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all “Ayour soul.” Deuteronomy 11:13

Serving should bring us joy, not feel like a chore. When we love the Lord, we want to serve Him. The Bible teaches us that if we serve the Lord, He will give us the desires of our heart.

“But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.’” Luke 10:40

God has given us two purposes in this life. We are to serve others and worship God. God teaches us that serving others strengthens our faith. Serving is a selfless act to show God our love towards Him. Jesus set the example of serving for us. He said that He came to serve, not to be served. Serving should never be done out of a sense of obligation, but with a giving heart, as part of worship.

We should all be a balance of Martha and Mary, taking time to learn and rest at Jesus’ feet and taking the time to serve and worship. Serving is an act of worship; we should remember when serving Jesus, we have to have a servant’s heart.

Serving allows us to discover and develop our relationship with Jesus. It will help us show the world that being a servant is what was commanded of us. That is part of obedience. The devil will

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remind us of all the reasons why we cannot serve: “I do not have time, I do not know what to do, I do not have the right skills, no one asked me to help.” These are weak excuses.

We can all serve; it helps us build bonds with others. It allows us to be a part of spreading the Gospel. Offering to help is a simple step that builds your relationship with Jesus. On the flip side, it helps those around us. You walk away with a feeling of joy because you were a part of the big picture of helping spread the Gospel to those who may not know Jesus.

Remember that it was Jesus who first taught us to serve.

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

194 SERVING

BACK TO REACH, DEVOTION 3

Sue Harrington

ark 10:45 tells us, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many.” Ransom means paid the debt. M This is quite the opposite of the world’s view of serving. The world thinks that climbing the corporate ladder, having staff that does what they want them to do, and meet their needs and desires, that they have reached high status. They believe they have achieved greatness. That is a “me” mentality. The Word of God, however, tells us when serving others, we serve God. It is a fulfillment like no other. When focusing on someone or something else, the attention is then taken from us.

Serving is not a glamorous concept in this world, but Scripture tells us in Galatians 5:13, “For you were called to freedom, bothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Serving gives us the opportunity to reflect or imitate Jesus, our greatest example of selflessness. Others will be able to tell what you are by what they see you do. They will see the heart through the actions.

God is always looking at the heart seeing how willing we are to serve, not by how well, but why, and the why should be because of our love for Jesus and our gratitude for all He has done for us. We are called to serve with a grateful heart expecting nothing in return. God will open opportunities for you to serve if you just ask Him. He will also equip you for that very moment if you trust Him. So be obedient to God’s Word; try it and I know it will fill you with such joy

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and peace, and you will then become more like Him anticipating the next time you get your next mission. It could be as easy as opening a door for an elderly person or giving a hug to someone who is struggling. So go ahead, pray and then ask someone how or if you can help them. Open your heart to serving, and I think you will find it easier than you thought it would be. It not only reflects God’s love but points them to Jesus.

196 GOING TO WORK

BACK TO REACH, DEVOTION 4

Sierra Combs | Women's Ministry Director

ately, I have been reflecting on just how awesome God is. Sure, I have known this most of my life, but this week I just keep getting bombarded with the true reality of how awesome LHe is to me. I am reminded of how much He loves me and how faithful He is. Also, He gives the best gifts. He gave, for example, the gift of His Son Jesus Christ to be my Savior. That one is easily the best gift I could ever be given. Also at the top of the list is the gift of the Holy Spirit. He sent me that “Guy” when I got saved and man, do I love and need His help on a daily basis. The gift list is endless. God has given me so many gifts, and not because I deserve them, but because He is just that incredible. However, not all of the gifts He has given me are just for me to keep and cherish for myself. Nope! I think of the old Sandi Patty song when she sings “The Father gave the Son, the Son gave the Spirit, the Spirit gives us life so that we could give the gift of love. And the gift goes on.” (And on and on and on. That song is catchy and will now be stuck in my head for the next three days). When we become children of God, along with all the gifts that God gives us, He also gives us some jobs. We are called to spread the Gospel to the world. We are called to love people. We are called to “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). God does not just give us His spiritual gifts, talents, and abilities to serve ourselves. He calls us to take those abilities and use them to serve others.

Serving others is not natural for the majority of us. We are born with sinful selfish natures, much-preferring others to serve us. But that is not what Christ calls us to do, and not what He modeled in His own

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life and death. He is the perfect example of a servant, being that He left His throne in Heaven, came down to Earth as a poor man, poured into others throughout His entire ministry and then died on a cross to pay the penalty for our sins so that we could be counted righteous by the Father. He did not have to do that. But He did. And if God has saved you from your sin, He has called you to serve. 1 Peter 4:10-11 (NASB) says, “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God…whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” When we serve others with the intention to glorify God, I am convinced that He will deepen our love for people and turn our attention away from ourselves and more towards the needs of others.

If God has saved you, you should not just be sitting. Get out there and serve! There are so many people in need of our help, and we are called to shine that bright light of Jesus to them. People should see Him when they see us. God has given us talents and abilities so that we can use them to help others as we glorify Him, so it is time to get out there to use them! Not only will serving others bless those in need, but it will also deepen our faith and help connect us with our brothers and sisters in Christ. I pray that God will turn our focus away from our own needs and desires and replace them with hearts overflowing with care and compassion for those around us. It is time to get to work!

198 STEP FOUR

BACK TO REACH, DEVOTION 5

Noble Baird | Community Center Director

s a church, we have made it our mission statement and vision to Reach, Gather, and Grow. The cycle does not stop at Grow; we go right back to Reach. For many, they will hearA this vision and think it is simply a three-step process. Once we work our way through Gather and finally start to Grow, some feel they have arrived. However, the most important part is going back to Reach! Matthew 28:19-20 is the foundational passage of all we do as a church, and it is where we find this concept of “Reach, Gather, and Grow.” This passage is often referred to as the Great Commission, and it was some of Christ’s final words before He ascended to Heaven. However, the story does not end there.

In Acts chapter 1, Luke records Christ’s call to all those who are gathered around Him and call themselves followers of Christ. Starting in verses 6-8 Luke writes, “So when they had come together, they asked him, ‘Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?’ He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.’” Here, Jesus is giving us, His followers, the call and charge to go back and reach into all the world. He came and reached out. He gathered together with His disciples and followers constantly and helped them grow in their walk and faith. Then, just before He leaves, He gives the command to go right back and reach out just as we have all been reached at one point.

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I love how Jesus gives the charge, “You will be my witnesses.” Wow, how awesome and powerful is it to think how our Savior has chosen us to be the ones to proclaim and stand for Him! Reaching out can be tough at times and even scary; however, if we take a look back at our life and our story of redemption in Christ, at some point, someone reached out to you and me. So, I want to challenge you not to simply stop and be satisfied with your Growth Communities and small groups. Do not just simply check off the gathering box every weekend. No, I challenge you to remember the call that Jesus gave us in Acts 1:8, truly going back to reach and being a witness for our amazing Savior!

200 TOILET

BACK TO REACH, DEVOTION 6

John Carter | Director of Operations

fter covering Reach, Gather, and Grow, we all can recognize areas in each of our lives where we can improve. The tendency might even be to exclusively focus on ourselves forA improvement. Looking inward is a critical aspect of a believer in Christ as we always need to examine our motive for why we do what we do. Keeping it in line with God’s Word and making sure we are following God’s will and not our own is often easier said than done. With all this examining we do, it can be easy to forget that we also need to act.

James touches on this brilliantly in chapter 2. In verse 15-17, he says, “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Later in verse 26, he says, “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.”

As I think about this devotion and contemplate the things we have already heard about in Reach, Gather, and Grow, I cannot help but think that this would be the natural progression for us. It takes all the inward changes and turns them into visible outward actions. It will look different for each of us as we each have different talents and resources. Consider how God might use you to influence or minister to others. You might say, “I do not know anyone lacking in cloth or food.” Do not miss the point, that was just an example, the point is our faith produces action. Maybe you see someone hurting, say something nice! Maybe you see someone that sits alone in

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the gathering, sit with them and befriend them! Maybe you know someone struggling to understand the Bible, offer to go through it with them!

Part of my job is to make sure that all the buildings are ready to go for gatherings and different events. One of the most important individuals in the church is the one who cleans the toilet. No one wants to go to a place where the bathrooms are not clean. The people that do this are often the people you do not see or hear, but their faith in God is louder than ever because their actions show it. You may not be an outgoing person, but trust me when I say there are ways you can get involved and help. We need people picking up trash, cleaning windows, mopping a floor, stacking chairs, painting, building, swinging a hammer, and the list goes on. The list is the actions of people you never see or hear that make all the difference in the world to the person that may not know Jesus. If you asked any of them why they do it, they would say, “Jesus!”

Sometimes our actions that influence and or minister to others are the ones that no one ever knows we do for them. There are these people at every location; they understand that they do not just go to church, they are the church. They want that person that walks through the door to feel as welcome and comfortable as possible. I have heard it said like this, “I would hate for someone to miss out on the Gospel because I forgot to put a roll of toilet paper in the bathroom.” How can you put your faith into action today? Take all the inward changes you have been working through and put them to use in outward action.

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OUR MISSION

Matthew 28:19-20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

REACH

At The River Church, you will often hear the phrase, “we don’t go to church, we are the Church.” We believe that as God’s people, our primary purpose and goal is to go out and make disciples of Jesus Christ. We encourage you to reach the world in your local communities. GATHER

Weekend Gatherings at The River Church are all about Jesus, through singing, giving, serving, baptizing, taking the Lord’s Supper, and participating in messages that are all about Jesus and bringing glory to Him. We know that when followers of Christ gather together in unity, it’s not only a refresher it’s bringing life-change. GROW

Our Growth Communities are designed to mirror the early church in Acts as having “all things in common.” They are smaller collections of believers who spend time together studying the word, knowing and caring for one another relationally, and learning to increase their commitment to Christ by holding one another accountable.

The River Church 8393 E. Holly Rd. Holly, MI 48442 theriverchurch.cc • [email protected]

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