FBC Independence Podcast

When I was a student back in ‘Preacher School,” I was having a difficult time in one of my classes, which dealt with interpreting the Old Testament.  I didn't like what the teacher was teaching. I disagreed with his interpretation of a great story from the days of the Hebrew people before Jesus.  At one point in his lecture, the teacher stopped and asked for questions;  I immediately shot up my hand!  He called on me, and I said, a little too aggressively, that I disagreed with what he had said about the story.  This started a very difficult discussion in front of the class that taught me a lesson I have used almost weekly in my 45 years as a Pastor.             My professor was very kind and said, “Ok, Mr. Payne. Tell me your thoughts about our story and why you disagree with what I've said.  I did so as well as I could.  Even though I had held to my beliefs for some time, they had never been ‘tested.'  As the words came out of my mouth, I realized that my answer didn't seem to make as much sense as before my involvement in this class. (This upper-level class taught us to read and interpret the Old Testament in the original Hebrew language).  When I finished, the teacher, still kind and patient with me, began to ask me a series of questions.  For instance:  “What are the words in the Bible that have led you to reject my interpretation?” Following my answer, another question:   “Knowing what you know from our studies in Hebrew, is your interpretation supported by the text?”  We had quite a discussion, and he continued to lead me through a thought process that revealed that not only was I wrong in my interpretation, but what I held to be true was completely distorting the passage's meaning!              This experience changed my life!  The fact that I embarrassed myself in front of the class was bad enough, but that was an easy lesson. The greater lesson that affects me today is that if my beliefs and interpretations contradict the scriptures, I am wrong!  As my professor said, pay attention to what the Bible says and what the Bible does not say.'             Many of you who are reading this article may have had experiences in life with similar effects.  In the Bible, we can read that John the Apostle had many!  For instance, at one point in Mark 5, Jesus raised from the dead a young girl, the child of a Roman soldier. They had argued with Jesus over this because they thought it was too late; also, they were probably resistant to helping a Roman soldier whom they saw as their enemy.  Jesus' actions and kindness to the soldier and the raising of the girl from the dead challenged their understanding of life and death. They taught them that even a Roman soldier's family was worthy of God's love.  This was one of Jesus' methods by which he taught his disciples how to live and minister in his name.  The disciples who witnessed this miracle were forever changed – their beliefs and practices concerning ministering to people and offering God's love to them were forever altered!   The point of this whole message is that when we follow Jesus and cling to our faith in him, He will change our lives over time!  He will teach, correct, and mature us in the faith.  The goal is for us to live our lives so that He might use us in ministry to a world that desperately needs what only Jesus can give!             Here's a passage that can help us in our journey:  “If then you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not the things on earth.  For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”                                                                                     Colossians 3:1-3   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

One of my friends from my early years in school was a red-headed boy named Mike.  Mike and I were pretty good friends, and we got along well – no arguments or fussing, as far as I can remember.  My family was relatively mild in behavior. Dad was a Deacon in our church, and my mother was the church organist. Still, Mike's family was different than mine!  His dad was a known 'fighter' in our small community and had several run-ins with the local police.  He was nice enough, but would grow violent quickly when tensions or disagreements arose.  This trait was passed down to Mike's older brother, who often got into fights after school!  As he got older, he had trouble in school because of his temper and violent tendencies. He dropped out before graduating.  Mike was a little gentler and slower to anger than his family. Still, he, too, developed a tendency towards violence and fighting with kids after school.  Eventually, we drifted away from each other, as our learned behaviors led us in different directions in life.  His family influenced him in one direction, and my family influenced me in another direction.            That is a lesson we've all learned. If you teach your children to be violent and belligerent, they will turn out that way; if you teach your children to be peaceful and work together, that is the type of life they will choose.  Of course, there are exceptions to that rule, but generally speaking, that is how it is!   Interestingly, this is precisely what the scriptures teach.  The book of Genesis contains a story of Jacob, whose parents taught him to live in a particular way.  His name means ‘suppla't'e', which means he would ‘take t'e 'l'ce' of another, through deceit and trickery.  Mom and Dad were good people, but Jacob, a moment-younger twin, was their favorite.  They did not teach him good behavior, but instead spoiled him.  As the boys aged, this behavior began to have serious implications.  For instance, one day, the older twin, Jacob, came in from a long hunt, starving!  Jacob had cooked a big pot of stew and worked out a trade with his brother: He would give Esau a bowl of hot stew, for the ‘birthright', that the 'older brother would receive at the appropriate time.  Esau, in a fit of hunger and not thinking, agreed, thinking that the birthright was worthless if he were to die of hunger.  Jacob worked a scheme on his older brother to get something for something for nothing.'  The steak was inexpensive, of course. Still, the birthright of a firstborn of a wealthy man such as their father, Isaac, was of profound value!  There would come a time when Esau would realize what Jacob had done, but it would be too late.  Another time, Jacob's brother, when their father was near death.  Isaac called Esau to bring him a final meal, and he would give his ‘blessing' to him. 'This was the firstborn Isaac's sce sce! Jacob's mother overheard the conversation and devised a scheme for her favorite son, Jacob, to receive the blessing.  He dressed up and acted in a way that deceived Isaac, who gave him the blessing. When Esau discovered the deception, he was furious.  He swore he would someday kill his brother!   Jacob received Esau's inheritance and fled his homeland to escape Esau.  He lived in fear and shame for many years because of the way he had received the blessings from his father and tricked his brother.  Finally, years later, they were able to make amends.  They both lived long and good lives. Jacob's life was always troubled because he had followed the deceitful ways of his mother.   There is no better example of "We reap what we sow." Indeed, "Jacob's is spoken of to this day and teaches us the consequences of sinful behavior.   This is how the New Testament explains the principle:  “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, he will reap.  For the one who sows to his flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary.”  Galatians 6:7-9   Let me encourage you to rise above any bad teachings or behaviors you may have picked up over the years!  Treat people well, and with grace.  Watch your tongue.  And, always, live in a way that honors the Christ who saved you.   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

People's past experiences often prepare them for meaningful roles—like George Washington's background as a surveyor preparing him to lead in battle. Similarly, biblical figures like Abraham were uniquely shaped by their lives to fulfill God's purposes.   Abraham's story is a prime example of obedient faith. At 75 years old, seemingly out of nowhere, God called him to leave his home and everything familiar to go to a new land. Abraham responded with trust and immediate obedience, even though the call was disruptive and demanding. His willingness to follow God's lead—despite age, uncertainty, and sacrifice—made him the father of a nation.   God Calls Us to Obedient Faith: Abraham's immediate response to God's command (Genesis 12:4) shows that faithful obedience is not about age or circumstances, but about trust. Obeying God may mean making difficult decisions and stepping away from comfort and familiarity.   When We Trust God, He Can Use and Bless Us: God promised Abraham a great nation, and though challenges arose, God remained faithful. The blessings often come in unexpected ways and at unexpected times, but God's promises are sure. Abraham's legacy continues through Israel and ultimately through Christ.   Disobedience Has Consequences: Abraham's choices—like going to Egypt during famine or fathering Ishmael through Hagar—had lasting implications. This reminds us that even well-meaning deviations from God's plan can have ripple effects.   Faithful obedience Leads to Impact: Abraham's faith journey not only shaped his life but also the course of history. His obedience led to a spiritual lineage that includes Jesus Christ and extends to all believers.   Until his calling, Abraham lived a quiet, perhaps even unremarkable life. But God used him in powerful ways because of his faith and obedience. His story encourages us to listen for God's call, trust in His promises, and step out in faith—no matter where we are in life. "Christ redeemed us… so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles…" – Galatians 3:13–14   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

Some time ago, I stumbled upon a video produced by a Christian organization about Easter.  Rather than a serious-minded drama depicting Jesus on the cross, or Roman soldiers mocking Jesus and gambling for his garment as he hung in the background, it was something very different!  A very creative teacher had instructed a group of elementary-age children to write their version of the Easter weekend events, which they had been studying in class for some time.  Along with the story they told, they also drew pictures of Jesus talking to his disciples, standing in front of the crowd as they yelled, "Crucify him, crucify him!" After that, they told of Jesus appearing to his followers after the resurrection.  It was entertaining and funny, all the while presenting a simple presentation of the gospel message.           First, they talked about how Jesus loved his people and walked around talking to them, and helping them.  He healed some and fed others but always said to them, "I love you," and "God loves you."  The people responded with delight that God loved them and cheered when Jesus said that He loved them, and would save them.             Another theme was the fact that Jesus was going to wash away their sin by dying on the cross.  The video didn't deal with the complexities of sin, forgiveness, and regeneration, which are 'preacher terms;' instead, Jesus told them he would cleanse them of their sin, and help them to experience God at work in their lives.  If those in the crowd would simply believe in Jesus as Savior, and ask him to come into their hearts, he would save them, and help them every day.             Finally,  the video pictures Jesus appearing to the disciples on the beach after the resurrection;  people hugged him and sang songs, and all had big smiles.  Jesus has come back from the grave!  This was an obvious act of God and was His way of proving that Jesus was his son and that the crucifixion and resurrection were God's way of saving us all from our sins.              This all came from the mouths of children!  They didn't use many religious terms or try to 'guilt' anyone to go to church or give an offering.  These children "got it:"  They presented the message of the Gospel:  God loves us and sent Jesus to save us.  And, when we ask him to save us, he washes away our sins and helps us to live better lives.    Pretty good work for a bunch of kids, eh?                  This is what Easter is all about!  Jesus, God's Son, was crucified on the cross, buried, and then came back from the dead.  When we receive these truths into our lives, Jesus saves us, transforms us, and begins to bless us, forever.  Amen!   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

Have you ever considered the question, "What is God's will for my life?"  That is a serious question!  When I was in college at a Christian school, this was the 'hot topic' for many of the sermons we heard during group Chapel.  Preachers would talk loud and long about how important it was to find and live out God's will for our lives.  There were formulas for success; some made sense, and others seemed silly and even simplistic.  The whole idea was that God's will was some 'plan for our lives,' giving purpose to our existence, leading us to the right job or career, and even to the correct made. The idea that if we followed God's will for our lives, He would bless us and make us happy, and we would have a good life was also always part of the sermon.  Finding and following God's will was essential for the person of faith!      By the time of the crucifixion, Jesus was very concerned about God's will for his life!  He loved God, wanted to please God, and knew God had a 'plan' for his life.  So, he spent much time in prayer and study of the scriptures and served others in need, all in the belief that these were the actions of God.  For Jesus, the will of God was a steady march to the cross, that he might be the sacrifice for the sins of all humanity.  Jesus, somewhere along the way, had discerned God's will for him:  He would live a life totally devoted to God, without sin.  He would be arrested and tried in court, beaten, scourged, and mocked by the crowds.  Finally, he would be crucified as a criminal and, on the cross, bear the cost of all our sins.  He would be the Messiah, the promised savior!   Here are a few of his final words that show us that his end on the cross was an act of faith and fully a part of God's plan for him:  Just a couple of minutes before he breathed his last, the scriptures record: "A jar full of sour wine was standing there; so they put a sponge full of the sour wine upon a branch of hyssop and brought it up to His mouth.  When Jesus received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished!'  And He bowed His head, and gave up His spirit."             God's will for Jesus was a call to obedience, self-sacrifice, and suffering.   Here are a couple of great truths that might help us in our lives as we seek and find God's will for our own lives:             First, God's will may not always be easy or enjoyable!  God may call us to endure difficult circumstances and suffer in some way.  It may be to complete an unpleasant task or be in the presence of people you do not like.  We must remind ourselves that the purpose of God's will is to obey his leadership and complete the task to which we are called.  God's will is not the pursuit of happiness; rather, it is to fulfill God's plan for us; our happiness or fulfillment is merely the result of living out God's will!             Another truth is that when we follow God's will, our lives are given a greater purpose than just the concerns of our small circle.  God is concerned with the timeless, eternal values taught in scripture and how humanity is affected when people live by them.  When we live out God's will, the spiritual truths in the scriptures come to life:  lives are saved, cultures are influenced for good, and God is glorified.  It can be a truly miraculous event when God's will is fulfilled!   Your best life is experienced when you seek out, find, and live God's will.  It is found as you seek Him in your life and trust what He teaches you in the scriptures!   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

In one of His final moments on the cross, Jesus speaks powerful words found in John 19:26-27—words that show His deep love, compassion, and purpose. Join us as we explore how Jesus remembered His mother, cared for her, and honored her, even in His suffering. Through this act, He not only fulfilled His duty as a son but also revealed the heart of God and invited us into a greater spiritual family. This is a message of love, connection, and invitation—one that still speaks to us today.   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our videos, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

I grew up in a large family, where I was number 5 out of 6;  the youngest was my little sister, a pretty, quiet little blonde who went through a several-year period of frailty and illness, which she eventually outgrew.  Interestingly, due to her physical condition, she lived with a persistent, irrational fear that our parents were going to die and leave our family without anyone to care for us.  She would cling to our mother, day after day, worrying about mom dying and leaving her; she was beside herself!  Fortunately, everyone stayed healthy, and she grew up to become strong and outgoing and lived a confident and happy life.                I've often thought about her concern for our parents' premature deaths.  What was going on with her?  Why was she so afraid?  And, to be sure, don't many of us live with some nagging fears in the back of our minds that someone might die prematurely?   One of the greatest gifts that God has given us through Jesus, in addition to the gift of salvation through the Gospel message, is the conviction that when we die, God will take care of us!  This is a gift that literally 'keeps on giving,' as all of us face the possibility of death every day of our lives, even when we don't think about it!   Here is one of the passages in the Bible upon which this conviction is based:  The scene is focused on Jesus hanging on the cross hours before his death.  People are mocking Jesus and taunting him, as is another thief hanging on an adjacent cross.  He says to Jesus, "Are You not the Christ?  Save Yourself and us!"  In response, a different thief, hanging on another cross, says to him, "Do you not even fear God since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?   "And we indeed justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong."  And he was saying, "Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!"  Here is Jesus' response to the thief who asked  him for help, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise."  Luke 23:39-43             That is one of the clearest passages in the Bible which speaks  of the Christian belief in life after death, "Today, you shall be with me."  Jesus, nearing his own death, not only comforts another facing his own mortality, he offers us all lasting words, solace, and hope as we consider our own deaths!              We are aware that we shall die at some point in the future, as will everyone!  Because of the unknown concerning death, there is an almost unlimited fear and discomfort with this truth, and  literally hundreds of differing religious and philosophical notions that deal with the question of "what happens when I die?"  But this one passage, spoken  by The One whom we believe to be the Son of God, with power, answers clearly, without any details, "Today, you shall be with me in Paradise."              The unnamed 'thief on the cross' could face his own death without fear simply because he had expressed his faith in Jesus!  He didn't have all the details, to be sure, but Jesus said he would never be alone.  Too, Jesus' words communicated no delays or complicated timelines: he would be in paradise "today."  And finally, the word paradise conveys an image of a place of peace, rest, and joy.  For those with faith in Jesus, life after death will be an eternal gift from God, based on God's love expressed through Jesus on the cross.  We do not have to 'earn' this gift; we merely receive it by faith, as did the thief on the cross.                 Won't you receive Jesus' offer of eternal life today?  Trust in him, and live forever!   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

I recently read through an online discussion regarding God's forgiveness.  The format was simple:  The question posed was:  According to Christianity, will criminals like rapists, serial killers, and school shooters go to Heaven if they ask God for forgiveness before dying?"  Predictably, the answers and opinions varied widely!             Here are a few examples of the hundreds of responses given:   "If someone sincerely repents  of their sins, they are forgiven."   "Asking for forgiveness" isn't enough; they must repent in their heart – their core, and be changed.  God sees through BS.  But yes, they can change."   "Yeah, but it's not that simple."    Many more posted a 'traditional' approach to forgiveness –  "If you confess your sins to God and repent, you will be forgiven."  At the same time, though, some gave the opposite response:             "It sounds like the opposite of justice to give rapists and murderers and get out of jail free care, yet good people who don't believe in God will be tortured for eternity in hell.  This is not good, moral, or justice."             "I hope not."             "Absolutely no criminals deserve to see Satan forever that is a terrible falsehood."             It is obvious from these responses that, for many people, their ideas of forgiveness are based upon their emotions or reactions to another's actions instead of biblical teaching!  Importantly, the Bible teaches us the eternal truths of God, especially regarding the correct understanding of forgiveness.  Here is just one passage from the words of Jesus that should be allowed to influence the common understanding of forgiveness:  "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34  Jesus said these words as he hung on the cross, not long before his death.   Jesus had been lied about, arrested and beaten, and now nailed to the cross, a reputed 'criminal'!  But as he hung there, his lifeblood draining out of him, he prayed to God that those involved would be forgiven.  This simple prayer, "Father, forgive them," can give us profound insight into the forgiveness that comes from God.   First,  the forgiveness that comes from God is based upon God's character.  The Bible teaches us that "God is love," and Jesus offering forgiveness to those who hung him on the cross demonstrates the type of selfless, "agape" love from God.  It is more than mere emotion; it is a commitment to another's well-being.   Another truth from these words of Jesus is that God's love is unlimited and retroactive.  Jesus prayed for God to forgive them all, regardless of their situation.  They were unrepentant, some were Jews, and others were Romans, but it did not matter – Jesus prayed for all of them, no questions asked!   Finally, God's forgiveness is forever; as the Psalmist said, "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us." 103:12                         God loves us and has directed Jesus to deliver a message of absolute forgiveness to all humanity; this is the reason for the message of the cross!  God loves us, Jesus prays for us, and as we respond to his offer of salvation, he forgives us and cleanses us from sin.             Let me encourage you to follow Jesus and receive the forgiveness that comes from God; you can be made new and start over in this life!   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our videos, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

I often think of one of my favorite hymns, that goes like this:   What can wash away my sin?"  with a refrain, "Nothing but the blood of Jesus."   The song is simple yet profound in its meaning—the blood of Jesus, shed on the cross, is God's way of washing away the guilt and stain of sin in our lives!   In one of the Apostle Paul's letters to the church at Corinth, he spoke on the issue of the blood of Jesus.  Here is some of what he said:    18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. 19 For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise And the understanding of those who have understanding, I will confound."   20 Where is the wise person? Here is the scribe. Here is the debater of this age: as God did not make foolish the wisdom of the world? 21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness, 24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.   Paul explained that the wisdom of God, as manifested through the Cross of Christ, was a "stumbling block" to the Jews, and the Gentiles as well.  On the cross, Jesus, the Son of God, shed his blood for us. Through his death and resurrection, God worked to cleanse us of the guilt of sin, pay the penalty of the sin of humanity, and, finally, conquer death for us all.  This is the Gospel message!   It is all based upon the work of Jesus on the cross; His blood, shed for us on the cross, is God's plan to save humanity.             The Jews resist this message, because it means that their religious experiences and rituals, and their lineage as the 'people of God,' cannot save them.  Too,  the Gentiles rebel against the message of the cross, because the wisdom of this world, and the accomplishments of man, cannot separate them from the guilt of their sin.  Only the message of the cross can save anyone!   Modern man has a problem when confronted with talk of the "blood of Jesus;"  that sort of talk seems so outdated and barbaric!  However, this is the wisdom of God that guides us, invites God's power to work in our lives, and enables us to live in a relationship with God, both now and in the life that is to come.   Here is another passage from the Apostle Paul, this time from his letter to the church at Rome.  "But God demonstrates his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.  Romans 5:8-9    Let us all accept this wisdom that is from God, and live!   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

It is sometimes hard to follow Jesus!   In the book of Acts in the Bible, we find a record of events in the early Church. One story, found in chapter 16, tells of an episode in the life of Paul the Apostle and his associate Silas.  These two preachers of the Gospel were traveling through the city of Philippi, and they were being followed by a group of men who 'owned' a slave girl who had a spirit of divination.  This young girl followed Paul and Silas for days, shouting to anyone who would hear, "These men are bondservants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation."  At first, this did not cause a problem. Still, she was so insistent and intrusive that Paul finally stopped her and cast out the Spirit of divination, driving her to speak.  Her owners were enraged, of course, because their slave girl could no longer service and entertain the crowds that she gathered, which had been bringing in quite a bit of income.  The girl's owner got the law involved, and Paul and Silas were arrested, beaten,  and thrown into prison.          Later that night, around midnight, Paul and Silas were singing hymns and shouting praise to God, worshiping Him.  The other prisoners were enjoying the music, and in the middle of this impromptu 'concert,' the ground began shaking, the jail walls trembled, the shackles fell off their bodies, and the jail cell door came open.  The jailer was roused from his sleep and, when he saw that the prisoners were free, took up his sword to kill himself.  (The penalty for failure in the Roman army was death!)  Paul cried out to him, "Do yourself no harm, for we are all here!"  The jailer rushed in with a lantern, fell at their feet, and, seeing them free and standing, spoke these eternal words, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"  The answer to his question was simple and life-changing:  "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household."  16:31  The jailer took them to his house to meet his family, and they all received the Gospel and became baptized believers in the Church!             This story exposes us to a few of the tremendous truths of God's message of salvation in Jesus:   First, God wants everyone to be saved!  Paul and Silas were on a mission to spread the Gospel message to anyone who would listen, Jew and Gentile alike.  God loves everyone and can save anyone who might call upon Jesus for forgiveness and salvation.  Another truth is simple: Any follower of Jesus can lead others to know Christ as Savior.  Paul was not a "priest" in the formal sense of the word; he was merely a believer in Jesus and could lead the jailer and his family to faith.  Another truth that might not be so welcomed is that following Jesus may bring hardship and suffering into one's life! Paul and Silas simply preached a message of love and forgiveness. They led the jailer and his family to know Christ as Savior.  However, those in power stood against the Gospel message and beat and imprisoned them both.  God delivered them, to be sure, but this was not a pleasant experience for these two preachers!             This story from Acts 16 is one of many in the Bible that explains Jesus' life-saving message. Jesus came and lived, died, and lived again for everyone.  Like the jailer, we can be saved by inviting Jesus into our hearts and committing our lives to follow him.  Let me encourage you to follow Him today!   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

Several years ago, I was getting ready to attend a musical concert at the church where I served as pastor; I and many others were really looking forward to it, as we got a famous guitarist to come and perform, along with his band.  It was going to be a great night!  Unfortunately, our older building had other plans….             About an hour before the concert started, I got a call from our custodian; our sewer line had blocked up, and our basement was filling with sewage!  I thought about canceling the concert, but I knew that many would be disappointed, so I made an executive decision:  I would call a group of men in the congregation to help me did up and repair the pipe in the dark while the concert was going on in our main building!  I was able to get 8 or 9 men to agree to bring their picks and shovels and help me repair, and we would start just as soon as we could; hopefully, we would be finished before too late in the evening, and the building would be ready for our services the following day.  (It was, of course, Saturday night!)             We arrived just before dusk, and it was apparent, as we began to process of finding the stoppage in the pipe, that darkness was coming soon.  We decided to circle our pickups around the site and dig by the light of our headlights.  We moved our trucks and began to dig.  At first, there were complaints and a few grumbles. Then something happened – people started telling stories of similar problems in their homes, a few sewer-related jokes were told, and we all began talking and laughing – we were having a good time!  We dug a large hole, tore out, and replaced a section of the old pipe leading to our septic system (a rural site). Before 10:30 p.m. or so, we were filling in the hole and ended up standing around for a few minutes, talking about the good times we'd had working together.  I thanked them all for their gifts of time, energy, and hard work, led them in a short prayer of thanksgiving, and we all went home,  tired and dirty, to be sure, but affirmed in our faith and in the task we'd done for God's church.  To this day, it is still one of my fonder memories of ministry!             The reason the event meant so much to me and the others there that night was that we were united – we didn't fuss over church business or politics, and the personality differences that often messed up our fellowship were simply ignored – the task at hand, and the demonstration of faith that those men made that night, united us in a way that we talked about for some time.  One man, who seldom said anything positive, even commented, "This is one of the best times I've had at church in a long time."  We all laughed out loud when he said that!             The story expresses the idea that when people give up their time, money, or efforts, they are stronger as a group, they can get things done, and their relationships are better.  Giving makes us better!             This is a very scriptural lesson when you think about it.  In his first letter, John wrote a sentence he repeated twice:  "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." I John 4:11  Later, he wrote, "We love because He first loved us."  I John 4:19, God's love for us was best expressed through the gift of his son, Jesus!  He came and lived and sacrificed his life for us all, that he might save us from sin and give us eternal life.  Based on that gift, God desired that we follow His lead and love each other.  In other words, because we had received the greatest gift from God, He wanted us to 'return the favor' by loving others.  God loved, and so He gave, and He wants us to do the same!             Let me encourage you to receive the gift of life God has offered in his son, Jesus.  And, as an act of faith and obedience, give a gift of love, help, and service to others.  Giving will make you better!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

I recently heard a story of a young couple who began to feel that their well-funded, organized, all-American lifestyle was starting to feel empty and meaningless.  So, they decided to have children, which ultimately didn't work out, as they could not conceive.  The next step for them was taking care of foster children and then adopting a couple of their foster kids.  Along the way of working in the foster care system, though, they recognized an ongoing problem:  most of the young, single mothers who were losing their kids to foster care did not have the ability or resources to do anything for themselves and improve their lives.  They began to form a plan for how they might affect a change to this problem.             The couple came up with an idea: they would open their home to the foster system, but instead of just taking in a child with an at-risk mother, they would bring the mother, with her child, into their home for the long term!  They would nurture and care for the child and nurture, support, and train the young mother to care for her own child.  This was an intrusive, complicated, expensive, and life-changing decision on their part – and they were convinced this was what God was calling them to do!             Their experience with the young mother they 'adopted' and the mother's baby was heartwarming.  It was busy and expensive, of course, and interrupted their home life more than they could have imagined.   But the positive results were priceless.  They formed a forever bond with the young mother and her child and helped her navigate young motherhood.  Too, when the young mother began to respond to their nurture and instruction, she grew and matured and took on characteristics that would benefit her and her child for the rest of their lives.  Another thing:  the young couple performing this 'ministry' to a young family were growing in their faith due to how God worked through their efforts and prayers. As the mother said, she spoke of how she felt God's presence in her life, "I'm just loving him more and more each day."   What a lesson in real-life ministry!  When people give of themselves in ministry, they benefit those they serve and grow in their faith as they serve others, open their lives to those in need, and trust in God for strength and guidance. This is precisely what the Bible teaches!             In the book of I Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul speaks of how God had worked in these very ways.  The Christians in Philippi had given to his ministry, and when Paul worked in the distant city of Thessalonica, peoples' needs were met, they were nurtured in their faith, and those who worked the ministry were blessed.  Paul wrote this, first in Philippians 4: 15-16, "And you also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; for even in Thessalonica, you sent a gift more than once for my needs."  Paul here commends the Philippian Christians for their giving to his missionary efforts in Thessalonica.  Later, in his letter to the new Christians, he wrote, "You also became imitators of us. . . so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia."  I Thessalonians I:6-7.  Paul commended the Philippian Christians for giving to the ministry in Thessalonica. He then commended the Thessalonian Christians, who had received generous gifts from the Philippians because they had grown in the faith and were great witnesses of the power of the Gospel!              When you give, others are healed; when you give, you are also healed.  This is just one of the reasons God wants us to give to others all our gifts and possessions!              Please give – that God might work in your lives and the lives of others – it is part of God's plan for his people.   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

As I sit in my office, I notice models of cars and motorcycles, along with a few gift books and knick-knacks lining the shelf. Each of these items holds memories for me, collected over my 45 years of ministry. The goofiest gift—and the one I can't help but share the story about—is my "wild moose" coffee cup. It's a large porcelain cup that looks like a bull moose crashed through it, with its head and antlers sticking out one side and its legs sprawled out the other. Flashy, quirky, and definitely not something my wife would permit in our house, it makes me smile every time I see it.   The cup was given to me by a good friend and her husband, who accompanied me on a church youth ski trip to Colorado many years ago. It was late in the day, and several people were resting along the trail. My two friends were there, and as I glanced over at them, they burst into laughter, waving their arms and shouting. I was a novice skier, so I couldn't really look around, but I eventually heard two men calling out to me from behind. When I turned to see the commotion, I found myself face-to-face with a bull moose charging down the hill right behind me, its eyes glaring and nostrils flaring. I stumbled out of the way as the two trailkeepers yelled at the moose, attempting to scare it off the path. I quickly moved as far to the side as I could and joined my friends, who were laughing hysterically at the sight of their nearly trampled pastor. Of course, I lived to tell the story, and the cup they gave me has a special place in my office; it reminds me of a wild time on the slopes of Colorado and, even more importantly, of a cherished memory with two good friends.   You might have something like this in your home or office: a memento from a friend that evokes fond memories from the past. The gift is wonderful, of course, but the shared experience it reminds us of is even better! Gifts have that ability, don't they? Sometimes a gift can help someone through a tough time or fulfill a need; other times, a gift is simply a reminder of a significant moment in your life.   Jesus wanted us to be a 'giving' people! Sometimes, individuals need their physical needs met; at other times, they may require a pat on the back, a shared meal, or a private conversation about what's troubling them. Regardless of the need, making an effort to address someone's needs can have a real impact. Jesus spoke about the act of 'giving' as an expression of faith: "Give to everyone who asks of you, and if they take away what is yours, do not demand it back. Just as you want people to treat you, treat them in the same way. Give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap. For by your standard of measure, it will be measured back to you." Luke 6:30-38   Jesus, during his Sermon on the Mount, emphasized that his followers should practice generosity and grace in their relationships with others—not because people are inherently good, but to help them and possibly guide them to faith. When we do this, not only are others supported, but there's a real chance that you will receive some form of gift in return from God himself. It may seem counterintuitive, but the old saying, "It is better to give than to receive," remains true. Give generously and selflessly, and experience the blessings of a life lived in obedience to God!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcast with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

When I first began preaching over 45 years ago, I began performing weddings for various couples in my community.  I would meet with the couples, plan the wedding, and usually offer a couple of counseling sessions.  I would teach them about handling their anger, working with the in-laws, and generally trying to 'keep the peace' in the home to keep the marriage together.  After a few years of this, I began to understand what the couple needed to hear.  As they would talk, I could anticipate and address some of the problem areas in their relationship.  In many of the couples, there seemed to be a recurring theme – that of lasting commitment.  This would come up when we discussed things such as conflict resolution, financial issues, and family differences. I would stress that they love each other, of course, and continually remind themselves of their commitment to each other, and to the marriage itself.  When asked about this, I would remind them of something some had never heard. The 'secret' of marriage was that there would be good times and bad, days of love and joy, and days of aggravation and anger.   This seemed to be news to the young couples, as they were usually fresh in love with each other, and could not imagine anything ever coming between them.  In fact, I had more than one husband tell me, after going through this part of the counseling, that they would be fine – if they had problems they would talk about their problems, pray together, and everything would be fine.  They truly believed it would be that simple to keep their marriage together!   Over the years, though, there were several occasions when I would watch these young couples struggle to keep their marriages together.  Some would renew their commitments to each other over and again, and they would build their homes and raise their families.  Others, though, would give up on their commitments, giving in to the disappointments and hurts common in marriage life, and ending their marriages in divorce.  I make no judgments on these, of course – marriage can be a real challenge!  As I said earlier, a marriage will only survive when there is love and commitment to each other and a willingness to dedicate themselves to the relationship.   In some ways, this is a parallel to the way one lives out their faith in Jesus. The Old Testament is a story of 3 men with well-known names: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.  These were men of sincere faith, living in a land dominated by a pagan King.  He was religious and had strong views of power and authority over the lives of his subjects.  During his reign, he decreed that at the sign of the music played from the temple, everyone must immediately fall to the ground, and worship the golden image the king had established.  These three men refused; when the horns blew, they ignored the king's decree.  When the king heard of this, he was furious!  He called the three law-breakers in before him and gave them another chance. If they bow to the golden image the king had established, they would live, but if they did not, they would be thrown into a fiery furnace.    Here is what the men said to the king: "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to give you an answer.  If it is so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace. . . But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up."  Daniel 3:17-18   The king had them stoke the fire in the furnace, and they were thrown into the flames!  The king later looked into the furnace and saw the three men and another man he called "one like a son of god."  (Some say this was Jesus!)   He had the men come out and questioned them.  Because of their commitment to their all-powerful god, he released and blessed them, and they lived out their lives in the kingdom, protected from ridicule and attack.   The unmistakable message here is clear: practicing your faith in God with commitment and obedience can often be very difficult and get you in trouble with all the wrong people!  Our God, though, will always be with us, and no matter what happens, He will bless and carry us into the future.   Let me encourage you to follow Jesus, with commitment to his cause, and practice obedience to his Word.  Let God work!  Do not be afraid, and never back down from your faith.  God is in control!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcats with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Some time ago, I called a credit card company multiple times regarding an unexplained charge on my credit card bill.  I left several messages, and when I finally got through to a human being, I could not understand the service agent due to his heavy foreign accent.  Although I asked him several times to repeat himself, I still could not understand what he said.  In disgust, I told the individual, "Thank you for your time," and hung up the phone.  I eventually paid the charge, which, although just a few dollars, was a major aggravation on my part.  I was angry that I had been charged with something I had not purchased and enraged that the card company's service department was so poor I could not take care of the charge properly. Instead, I paid it just to get on with my life!   Have you ever felt that way?  You try to contact an individual or company, but you cannot get through.  We are all familiar with that frustration!    So, too, must be God!  He has made multiple efforts over several years, trying to get individuals to speak with him and deal with him "one-on-one," only to be brushed off or ignored.  Even when He can get through to someone, through a sermon, bible passage, or one of our personal friends, we just go on about our business, paying him no real attention.   This is exactly what was going on when the Prophet Jeremiah was preaching to the Hebrew people in the land of Judah.    It had been a little over 150 years since the Northern Kingdom of Israel had fallen to the Assyrian Army, which was known to be God's punishment for their apostasy.  They had ignored God's pleas for repentance for many years. God patiently reached out to them through different prophets and circumstances.  This was all for naught, though, as the people of Israel had determined to ignore God's call to repentance and renewed faith.  The judgment was brutal; the Northern Kingdom simply ceased to exist!   Jeremiah was preaching to those in the land of Judah, considered the Southern Kingdom.  Here is just one of the passages of Jeremiah calling out to God's people:  "Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you:  and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion; and I will give your pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.  Jeremiah 3:14-15  Here, the Prophet had reminded the Southern Kingdom of what had happened to the Northern Kingdom of Israel.  Too, he had challenged them with the call to repent,  promising that if they would turn from their sin, God would forgive them, teach them, and give them wisdom that they might live in God's ways and live eternally with God and His people.         Unfortunately, the people refused to repent, and ended up suffering the punishment of God for their sins; they were conquered by the Babylonian army and were taken into slavery in a foreign land.  Had they repented of their sin, God would have forgiven them and blessed them and their nation; because of their stubbornness, though, they suffered the consequences.   The great truth of this true story of history is not that God punishes sin but that God would prefer to forgive those who turn from their sin and bless them.  That is God's desire!  God loves his people; God loves all people.  He calls us all to follow Him and turn from our sins so that He may save us, and bless us with the eternal life that only He can give.    Won't you turn from your own path, confess your sin, and decide to ask God into your life?  He will forgive you, save you, and lead you into a life of eternal blessing and joy!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Years ago, I heard a ruckus in the basement of our home – my young daughters were at it again!  "It's not fair!"  One said, "Yet, it is fair," said the other.  This went on for some time.  I eventually went downstairs and tried to calm them down, but I must admit, I failed!  I tried my best to make sense of the situation and perhaps inject some peace and justice into the situation – but I could not!  It was one of those situations where one had been given a privilege by virtue of being two years older than the other; when the younger one found out, her first response was predictable and somewhat accurate: "It's not fair!"  We discussed this at length, with the end coming when my youngest daughter ran off to her room, crying loudly, and me hearing the familiar "slam!" of her door.             Life's not fair, is it?  Even under the best of circumstances, there may always be a situation or event that has an inherent injustice or unfairness:  One's parents make more money and can buy their child nice things, and their friends have less; Or, one is inherently more intelligent than another, and gets more recognition or awards than others.  Sometimes, what is unjust or unfair results from another's actions or decisions.  Regardless, we all have been on the side of the one who felt slighted – and we have all cried out, just as my daughter, "It's not fair!"             In the Old Testament, a preacher named Ecclesiastes wrote about the unfairness of life and the need for justice to overcome this harsh reality of life on this earth.  He commented on the nature of this life when he said, "In the place of justice there is wickedness, and in the place of righteousness there is wickedness." 3:16     He was speaking of the unfairness and injustices he had observed in the halls of the justice system, and government actions.  Even the 'good people' were unjust!   The preacher went so far as to say that he could discern no difference between the animals and mankind when it came to their actions towards each other: "I said to myself, 'God will judge both the righteous man and the wicked man, for a time for every matter and every deed is there.  I said to myself concerning the sons of men, God has surely tested them for them to see that they are but beasts.'" Vv.17-18             We are, obviously, a people with a great need for justice and fairness in our affairs.  But we cannot do it alone!  Here are the instructions from the old preacher;  "The conclusion, when all has been heard, is:  fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person.  God  will bring every act to judgement, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil." 12:13-14        Simply put, the only way we will experience a life of fairness, justice, and peace is when people of faith apply their faith to their lives, relationships, and dealings with others.  We cannot, and will not, do it on our own, and we will all face God for our unjust ways!!             Other than the clear call to a life of faith, there are a couple of other instructions given to us in God's Word that can guide us in our efforts to bring peace and justice to this life:             God wants us to love others.  Not just with shallow emotionalism and easy 'feel good' moments; no, God wants us to practice a godly love towards all, living and acting in a way that demonstrates sincere concern towards the well-being of others.  Ministries to the sick, hurting, and hungry, as do those who are poor and lonely, come to mind.             God wants us to work for justice and peace.  This leads us to actions that will protect others from the predatory people of this earth, as well as those in power who tend to use others for their personal gain.  The work for justice and peace is to take place both on a personal level and on a larger level, which may challenge us in our political actions and perspectives.             Here is a final thought on peace, and justice, as given to us by the prophet Micah:  "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God."  Micah 6:8    Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Years ago, my dad was driving us through the Ozarks while on vacation, looking for "cheap gas."  Back in those days, (the mid-1960s), there were often so-called 'gas wars,' where competing gas stations would try to lure in customers from other stations with lower gas prices.  So intense was the competition that even a penny or two difference per gallon could make a huge difference!  At some point during this search, it became apparent that the 'cheap gas' being pursued was nowhere to be found; in disgust, my father asserted, in an angry tone, "I'll never pay $.25 for a gallon of gas!"  We were stunned by his anger and said nothing.  He only relaxed when he found what he had been looking for – cheap gas at $.23 a gallon.  What a relief!  Years later, of course, we teased him mercilessly for getting angry over $.25 a gallon of gas – by the time we were teasing him, gas was well over $1.50 a gallon.   Now, my dad was not an ignorant man, but he was 'stuck;' in the situation. What I mean is that he was thinking like everyone else, in ways that were restricted by the shared wisdom of the day.  No one else wanted to pay $.25 for a gallon of gas, either.  The world had changed!   What brought this story to mind is how most people think; the "wisdom of this world" is conditioned and shaped by so many things, including our emotions, the current practices of the day, and more.  Also, the "wisdom of this world" is often wrong and will fade away over time, to be replaced by some other 'wisdom' that might be just as far from the truth.   In the Bible, there is a story from King Solomon's life that literally 'put him on the map' in the politics of the day.  It's a familiar story of God's wisdom bringing peace to a tragic situation.  Solomon was king, and there was trouble in the courtyard.  Two women were fighting over a child.  Both were prostitutes with infants and shared an apartment.  One of the infants had died overnight.  The mother of the deceased baby recognized the situation and, in the middle of the night, 'switched out' her dead infant with the one who was sleeping.  When the other mother woke, she recognized that the infant was dead, and the baby in her bed was the other woman's.  She immediately understood the situation – the babies had been switched!  There was a loud, screaming fight between the two, of course, and the two ended up in front of the king, whose task was to bring justice and peace to the now buzzing community.   Solomon pondered the situation and said, 'Bring me the child.'  He then reasoned that the only way to satisfy both women was to cut the child in half, giving each one half.  The woman who had switched the babies accepted the ruling; the true mother of the living child, though, immediately acted to save her child, begging the king to give the child to the other.  In some way, God's wisdom had helped Solomon to discern that the real mother would instead save the life of her child, even if it meant she would lose him.  Solomon gave that woman the child, as he recognized her sincerity and the facts of the situation.  So clearly, this act of Solomon from God was something the people immediately recognized as something beyond human understanding.  The Bible says, "When all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had handed down, they feared the king; for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice."  I Kings 3:28  Word spread throughout the land, and soon people from all over the world came to hear Solomon speak the wisdom that was recognized to be from God.   People need justice and guidance in messy situations, and they need to be given the understanding that it is better than what the world has to offer!   When we read this old story, we are confronted with the understanding that there are two types of wisdom:  Earthly wisdom, which often brings suffering, broken relationships, and even wars.  Then, in contrast, is godly wisdom, which can get justice, emotional healing, and even peace when applied to a life or event.  That wisdom is a gift from God, given through his grace.     You may sense a need for wisdom from God to be applied to some situation in your life.  Ask God for wisdom, and follow His direction.  He can guide us in this life!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

An update from Rob Van Wey on his missionary work with Soldiers in North Carolina.   "For God so loved the world."                 One of the most familiar passages out of the Christian Bible, this passage is always appropriate!  In creation, "For God so loved the world."  In good times and bad, "For God so loved the world."  In life and death, "For God so loved the world."  In all situations, the message of God's eternal love for us all can bring comfort, guidance, and joy.  God loves us all!                 Especially in times like the Christmas season, is the message ever appropriate.  A man and his very pregnant wife are looking for a place to stay in a strange land.  No room in the in; a bed in a backroom stall; a piercing cry of a newborn boy in the middle of a moonlit night – God loves and has brought about a miracle!  Not just the miracle of birth, of course – this birth was special!  This baby was "the Christ Child."  God, 'in the flesh;' God was moving to save man from his own sin, and self-destructive ways.  In the Christ-Child the eternal Creator came as an innocent child, putting to the test the phrase, "For God so loved the world."                 The Creator-God, in the flesh, has come to earth!  The Creator has come to re-create, to give new life – to save!                 This is God's promise:  "He was wounded and crushed for our sin.  He was beaten that we might have peace.  He was whipped, and we were healed." Isaiah 53: Jesus came and lived, preached, suffered, and died so that we might live.  From that first creation story, this was God's plan!                 This is Jesus' testimony:  "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven.  If anyone eats of this bread, he shall live forever."  John 6   Jesus made the fantastic claim – "I who speak to you am he."  He was more than just a preacher or prophet, as many have said – He was, and is, the Savior of all!                 This is the witness of scripture:  "Once for all time, he took blood into that most Holy Place, but not the blood of goats and calves.  He took his own blood, and with it, he secured our salvation forever." Hebrews 9, the blood of Jesus, shed on the cross, was God's plan;  this is how he would cleanse us from our sin!  No magic trick, of course – this was an act of a loving God, giving himself to save the humanity that he had created and strayed from Him.    "For God so loved the world, He gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life."  This is the story 'behind' the Christmas story and the reason for it all.  God's loves us, and that is the reason for the wonderful celebration!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our videos with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Last week, we began a series on The Incarnation of Jesus.  We pondered an answer to the question, "What is the Incarnation," and learned that the act of God the Son, coming in human flesh, was the simplest way to understand the Incarnation.  It was a miraculous act demonstrating God's willingness to do great and mighty things to help humanity.  This week, we will consider an answer to the question, "Why did the Incarnation occur?"    Let's take a quick look at the condition of man.  The Bible teaches us that we were created in innocence and perfection, with the intention of living in a loving and fulfilling relationship with God.  Everything was wonderful for a time.  But then man chose to disobey God.  That is one way to understand the nature of sin:  it is when we decide that we would rather live according to our desires rather than the ways of God.  When we live a life of sin (characterized by our rebellion against Him),  it means that we may reject God's direction for our lives, and that often brings suffering and misery our way.  We aren't typically horrible people, of course, but we live in a way that makes our lives more difficult and tends to hurt those we love.  No matter how hard we try, we cannot go back to a sinless life!  However, God loves us and wants to help us 'come back' to him so we can live our best lives.  God's ultimate solution was the Incarnation!  The Incarnation was a miraculous intervention that would enable God to forgive us for our sins, cleanse our lives, and begin the process of re-creating this life on earth.    Let's talk a little about the love of God that brought about this great miracle!  In the Old Testament, the love of God was spoken of in one passage like this: "I knew that you were a gracious and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love." Jonah 4:2   The last words in that verse, "unfailing love," is in many other places translated as "abundant lovingkindness."  These words for God's love appear over 180 times in the Old Testament, speaking of God's gracious, unearned, and life-changing love for man!  In the New Testament, God's love was spoken of using a different term, "agape love."  This is similar in meaning, adding a dimension of God's grace to the understanding.  So, when we read the very popular New Testament verse, John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever lives and believes in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life," we see God's 'agape love' in action.    This love of God, spoken of often throughout the scriptures, is the 'why' of the Incarnation!  God created us in love with the intention of sharing his blessings and life with us, but our sins separated us from Him.  Nothing man could fix this devastating problem, so, in the mind of God, the act of the Incarnation was conceived.  God would send his son to this earth in the form of the Christ-child Jesus and ultimately pay the price for our sins.  Through this act of love, God would cleanse us from our sins, give us pure hearts, and begin re-creating us in his image.  In this precious gift, God would save us from ourselves!             Let me encourage you to consider your place in your relationship with God!  if you never asked for the cleansing available through Jesus and would like to have a new and better life, go to God in prayer and receive him into your heart. That will begin a new life for you and can be a source of blessings and joy forever!    Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

"With."    A simple term, really.  A word that can truly 'make a difference' in one's life or a specific situation.  Here are a few examples:    "Will you come with me?"  "May I come with you?"  Or, perhaps, "It would mean so much to me if you would come with us."              When used in such a way, the term "with" can refer to an invitation, an expression of devotion or love, and maybe even a desire for something more in a relationship.              In Old Testament times, it was understood that there was a sort of barrier between man and God.  God created us intending to live in a relationship and share his blessings with us.  Mankind, however, from the earliest couple on, seemed to have trouble with that idea, at least in practice. There was rebellion, a rejection of God's words, and, finally, sin.  The barrier between God and man became more profound as time passed; there were times when it seemed that man had little patience for God at all!  Prophets preached a message of the need for repentance in the lives of men and women of all ages; the message of those prophets, in so many words, was simple, "Won't you come with me?"   God yearned to bring us close to Him, love, and bless us.              Finally, God made the decision: He would do something unheard of, and miraculous!  He sent his son to earth in the form of a child named Jesus.  This 'incarnation' was how God would show us who He was and what He wanted of us. He would help us see what we 'could have been' if we had not rejected God, both as individuals and as a people. Throughout the scriptures, Jesus was referred to by many names.  One, though, was particularly significant, and full of meaning:  Immanuel.              Most everyone is aware of this name of Jesus, not just because it is in the Bible, but because the very name "Immanuel" has been immortalized in a famous Christmas hymn.                          Here are the first couple of lines in the old Hymn, which beautifully encapsulates the essence of God's presence among us:                        Emmanuel, Emmanuel, His name is called Emmanuel. God is with us and revealed in us. His name is Emmanuel.   Did you see those words,  "God with us?"  That is the literal meaning of the words in the original language from Jesus' day:  "With us, God."  God was saying to us all, as he gave us this name for His son, "I am going to be with you, from now on."  He also told us, "Will you come with me and live a life of faith?"    Jesus, the embodiment of the Incarnation of 'God in the flesh,' says to us all, "Come with me:  I love you, and will save you, and will bless you, forever." This 'What?' of the Incarnation is the core of our mission, inviting all to experience the love and salvation of God.    Through His son, Jesus, God's God, proclaims his love and intentions for us all.  He says, simply and repeatedly, "I want to be with you. Will you come with me?"   How will you answer the God who calls you to faith? This call is not just a request for belief, but a commitment to live a life of faith, to spread His love and message, and to be a part of our ministry's mission.   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Guest Speaker:  Brian Forman "Again and Again," Mark 1:9-15 Brian serves on the Senior Leadership Team at CBF, helping to coordinate congregational ministries.  Brian lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, with his wife, Denise, and they have two adult children.    Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also forengagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Good morning, FBC! It's an honor to be filling in for Pastor Kevin while he's taking a well deserved week off. Since this morning is our Operation Christmas Child Celebration Sunday, I thought I'd extend Rev Kev's 3:16s of the Bible sermon series. This project allows us to send a shoebox filled with gifts and essentials to children in need, helping them experience the tangible love of God.   Our message will focus on several scriptures—all 3:16 verses from various books of the Bible—that remind us of the core values behind this mission. Each verse speaks to God's love, generosity, and call for us to serve others.   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcast with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

The book of Exodus, the second book in the Bible, is the story of how God rescued the Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt.  This powerful narrative of liberation and faith is at the core of our ministry's mission, inspiring us to bring hope and freedom to those in need.  Here is a little bit of historical background:             Egypt was at the peak of its political and military power, dominating the world.  This powerful nation conquered smaller nations at will, taking captives from the population and selling them into slavery.  Smaller migrant groups already in the country were enslaved, too, including a group of people identified as the Sons of Israel, the descendants of those who had come to Egypt with Jacob in previous years.  They were considered a threat because of their great numbers, so the Egyptian leaders enslaved them, forcing them to build 'storage cities' named Pithom and Raamses.                This lasted for several hundred years until their prayers for relief were answered.  God called Moses, who was raised in the Egyptian palace, to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.  Here is a part of what God said to Moses: "I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt to the land of the Canaanite and the Hittite and the Amorite and the Perizzite and the Hivite and the Jebusite, to a land flowing with milk and honey. . . So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My miracles, which I shall do in the midst of it; after that, he will let you go." (Exodus 3:17-20)   After a series of confrontations between Pharoah and Moses, God worked ten miraculous plagues on the Egyptian people to convince their leader to let the people go.  Moses led them out into the desert, and soon after,  God parted the waters of the Red Sea and allowed them to escape the Egyptian chariots Pharoah had sent to destroy them.  They were free!  It was another 40 years before they were allowed to enter the Promised Land, but the promise of God finally happened. God had heard their cries for freedom from their bondage and suffering, and He worked a mighty work that is spoken of to this day.    I tell this story because it is one that not only inspires faith in the hearts of those who hear; it also teaches us great truths about the One God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the God who later sent his son, Jesus, to rescue all mankind from their suffering and sin.  One of the great truths from this story is that God hears us and cares about what is going on in our lives.  He is, literally, our "loving father," who listens to our prayers and wants us to share our hearts with Him.  Also, our Father-God can act in history to change our lives and bring us strength, courage, and blessings.  He may not work in our lives "on demand," but in His time, God acts!  Finally, God brings positive changes into our lives as we pray in faith.  God loves us, and wants to care for us both now, and in the life that is to come.   Won't you follow this Father-God who cares for you?  If you want Him to work in your life to bring forgiveness, joy, and hope, you can ask Jesus into your heart. God will hear your prayer of faith.  He will cleanse you from all your sins and failures and begin to work in your life, as only He can, to bring life and joy!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our videos with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to continue inspiring others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just significant, it is integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information but also engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Several years I was conducting a wedding for a young couple in the church where I served as pastor.  I met with them a couple of times to plan the ceremony and discuss the issues, and all seemed well.  Both were Christian, young, and in love, and seemed to get along very well.  The big day arrived, and a few minutes before the ceremony began, I met with the groom behind the stage, waiting for the correct time to enter the auditorium.  We talked about the wedding plans, and the young man commented that their planning process had been relatively pleasant, as his young bride was very accommodating.  I mentioned that she would probably change a little over time, as she grew into her role as wife, and, later, as mother.  With that comment, though, the young man's eyes opened wide as he exclaimed, "I've noticed that – she's gotten pretty aggressive and outspoken in just the last couple of weeks, as we've talked about renting an apartment and making decisions about decorations and furniture; she's never talked to me like that before."  I laughed, as I knew this young man was in for a shock!  I told him that was normal and that she would probably surprise him with her strength in the days to come.   It is often said that "women are the weaker sex," but most men's experience is the very opposite!  Men always find that women are strong and intelligent, can be very aggressive, and often may seem to have a sense of resentment, or even anger, towards men.  Why would this be?   In the Old Testament, there is a story that may give us some insight into this male/female relationship dynamic.  In the creation story in Genesis 1-3, there is the story of the Creation of the world, including animals, the natural realm, and the first couple, Adam and Eve.  They were given almost total freedom; the only restriction on their behavior was not eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.  Adam and Eve failed, as you probably remember, eating a piece of fruit from the forbidden tree.  God confronted them, and punished them, for their sin and disobedience to His Will.  Part of the judgments given out had to do with the relationship between the man and woman:  "To the woman He said, 'I will greatly multiply Your pain in childbirth, in pain you shall bring forth children; Yet your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.'"  Later, to the man, God said, "Cursed is the ground because of you; In toil you shall eat of it, All the days of your life. . . therefore the Lord God sent him out from the garden of Eden, to cultivate the ground from which he was taken."     Genesis 3:16-24   The phrase in v.16, 'yet your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you,' is a key part of the man/woman relationship.  Man and woman were created as equals, to work together, and help and encourage each other,in a relationship of mutual support and submission.  However, when sin entered the relationship, this balance was disrupted. The loss of mutual support and submission led to a perpetual power struggle between man and woman. This is the unfortunate effect of sin on our relationships.              Men and women can rise above this when they learn to accept the biblical message of mutual support and submission.  Unfortunately, that goes against our fallen nature!  God can help, though, when we follow Jesus.  In Christ, we are "made new" and have transformed hearts and minds.  With changed hearts and an education mindset, men and women can learn to trust each other and work together, one submitting to the other, determined by each other's strengths and weaknesses.  In this relationship, there can be peace and joy!   Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We deeplyappreciate your contributions and urge you to continue inspiring others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just significant, it is integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions are the backbone of our ministry. They enable us to run outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we deeply value your role in making this ministry a reality. Your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms are not just for information, but also for engagement. They are a great way to connect with our community, support our mission, and be part of our journey.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

Not too long ago, I watched a TV program focusing on the use of what are called 'service robots,' which are becoming commonly used worldwide; it was a fascinating program.  One of the 'robots' that was very popular was the 'robot dog,' which is in use in several large cities worldwide.  This 'dog' could walk up and down stairs and is equipped with a camera and lights, a 'sniffer,'  and, in the future, may be equipped with a weapon – all controlled by a remote officer nearby.  The 'dog' is fearless, of course, and can go into situations that might threaten the life or well-being of an officer.  There is great interest in this model, we were told!  Another robot was a 'hospitality robot' that stood upright on wheels, had face-like features on the top to mimic a human face, and was designed to carry a tray to patients in a hospital or nursing home.  This type of robot was equipped with new 'artificial intelligence' software (all computer-operated); it could even carry on basic patient conversations.  These patients have responded well to these robots in trials. It was reported that these models will soon be almost everywhere, and some people need help daily.             The focus of the program was that, eventually, there would be no need for real people to engage in many of these tasks, as there would eventually be a 'bot' developed for tasks that are repetitive, dangerous, or considered too 'menial' for human beings.  There would be a literal 'army' of these bots everywhere you went, and this would be a great boon for humanity, accomplishing all sorts of tasks!             I have often wondered what could be done if one had an 'army' of these 'service bots' at one's disposal. The answer: almost anything!             We don't have to imagine this situation, as someone has already done something similar to this, but with real, live people.  Who has done this, you might ask?  I would contend that this is precisely what God has done with his people of faith in the Church!  The Church is the collection of God's people, united by faith in him through Jesus.  Much more than a building, it is an army of believers who have voluntarily given their lives over the service of God in almost every way imaginable!              Here are some characteristics of God's people who have become, by choice, servants of the One God.  First, they are united by their belief in the Gospel message and the experience of Jesus cleansing them of their sin.  Additionally, they have received God's Spirit with them. They are engaged in the transformation of their hearts and lives through that Spirit and the teachings of the Scripture.  Finally, they are organized into a functioning body of people, united by their faith, forming a worldwide organization called into service every day.  The Church is God's 'army,' ready to go out into the world to help people in crisis, to teach them the good news of Jesus, and to model the kinds of loving and gracious behaviors that best reflect the One God, who loves us all.    God's plan for the Church may be 'low-tech,' but look at all God has done with his servants: He has taken schools and hospitals into needy areas, provided food and water to millions in crisis, taught cultures how to value human life and foster respect and concern for people of all colors and nationalities, and even provided foundational beliefs for some of the greatest nations in human history. WOW!!   Would you like to be a part of God's "army" on this earth?  When you come to believe in Jesus as the crucified and resurrected Son of God and ask him to come into your heart and save you, the transformation of your life begins. God will fill and guide you with his Holy Spirit, teach you with his written Word, the Bible, and then start to guide you into service.  When you say "yes" to God's call, you join the largest, most effective, and most enduring organization in human history – the Church!  He will use, bless, and fill you up in ways you have never imagined.  Follow Jesus, and join the servants of God, the Church!   Your support is crucial to spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We are deeply grateful for your contributions and urge you to continue inspiring others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just important, it's integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions make our ministry possible. They support outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for the community. We assure you that your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we value your role in making this ministry a reality. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. Staying connected with us is a great way to engage with our community and support our mission.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

While in high school, I got into a huge argument with one of my good friends; we almost came to blows!  We finally calmed ourselves down and ended up laughing at ourselves due to the nature of the argument.  Our big blow-out resulted from a fairly ordinary discussion for high-school boys:  we all worked on our cars, and we would compare notes about tools, techniques, and in this instance, which oil was best to use in our older v8 engines.  He commented that a particular oil brand was best, and I countered that another brand, the one I preferred, was even better.  He and I went back and forth for some time, tempers flared, and I believed we would have to 'duke it out!'  Fortunately, we both caught ourselves, and then I explained that my dad had always used 'my' oil; he gave a sheepish smile and admitted that 'his' oil was one his father always used.  We both started laughing, having realized just how silly we were:  neither one of us knew anything about oil, we were just going on what our fathers had said.  Our 'convictions' about oil quality weren't really convictions; they were just simple preferences that neither of us had ever seriously considered.   Of course, this was a silly and childish argument, but I have had occasion to think of it often over the years.  The notion of 'life choices' and 'convictions'  is an important one for at least two simple reasons: First, our choices and convictions, and how we form them, can have a significant impact on our lives, our relationships, and the way we serve God and his Kingdom.  Secondly, the type of convictions that drive our lives can determine our witness for Christ to those around us.             John the Baptist, Jesus' cousin, was one who had developed certain convictions around the issue of godly faith, and these convictions controlled his life!  No matter where he was or who he was talking to, his convictions of faith in God and Jesus, God's Son, determined every action and word!  Whenever John spoke, those around him knew where he stood when it came to matters of living out one's faith in the One God.  He spoke forcefully against sin and made the case for honest repentance and living out one's faith in a way that would please God.  Also, wherever he lived and whatever he said, he demonstrated his belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who was the promised Messiah.  His convictions were chosen based on his life experiences and how he had seen God work.  In addition, his actions and words purposefully made the case for a life based upon faith in Jesus as the fulfillment of the Jewish faith.  Here is just a small portion of what John spoke, based upon his God-given convictions:   John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism  of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. . . And he was preaching and saying, "After me One is coming who is mightier than I, and I am not fit to stoop down and untie the thong of His sandals.  I baptized you will water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." Mark 1:4, 7-8   I urge you to consider the convictions that will shape your life.  Choose your beliefs wisely and let them guide your actions.  Base your life on the teachings of Jesus, who sacrificed himself and rose again. Plan your life according to your faith in Him.  Your life will gain purpose and significance, and others will be inspired by the power of your faith.   Your support is crucial to spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We are deeply grateful for your contributions and urge you to continue inspiring others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is vital to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.   Your financial contributions make our ministry possible. They support outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for the community. We assure you that your contributions are used with transparency and accountability, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. Your generosity is a testament to your commitment to our mission, and we value your role in making this ministry a reality. You can contribute here https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   To stay updated on all things FBC, download our App here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. Staying connected with us is a great way to engage with our community and support our mission.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!

I recently attended a cross-country track meet so that I could cheer on my teenage daughter, who is well on her way to becoming a successful athlete. In a cross-country meet, the parents and families of the runners stand at different parts of the course and cheer their loved ones on. Then, everyone rushes to the finish line to yell like crazy, hoping that the support will give the runners an extra 'push' across the finish line. It's great fun!             At this meet, the course was in a very hilly location.  At the first station, all the parents yelled out support for the kids as they ran by, and then, in 2-3 minutes, there were a couple of stragglers who were far behind the pack.  They were giving it all they had, but it was apparent they weren't doing well!  We all felt sorry for them and wanted to encourage them, so we all yelled like crazy for the stragglers far behind the pack.  We could only hope that our cheers and volume would help them somehow!             I am always surprised when I hear athletes say that the cheers of the crowd really do make a difference. I have even heard professional athletes say that the cheers of the crowd make them feel better and more capable and even encourage them to try harder, especially when they are up against formidable athletes—it really helps!             There is a story in the Old Testament that demonstrates how God worked to help a leader of the Hebrew people, Joshua.  Moses had led the people in the wilderness and was no longer with them.  God called Joshua to lead the people after Moses' death. In Joshua 1, we see the way God called Joshua into what would be a very dangerous and difficult task.  He explained that Joshua was to take the people across the Jordan River, lead them to conquer the people of the Promised Land and take the land for God's people. It was terrifying!  But God knew what Joshua needed:  God told him that He would be with them every step of the way and give them victory over the pagan leaders of the land.  And God did something very much like what I did for my granddaughter as she raced across the countryside:  He cheered Joshua on and encouraged him in the task.              The way God did this was very simple:  Speaking to a man about to embark upon a difficult task, he said, three separate times, the phrase:  "Be strong and courageous."  Let me give you a shortened version of God's encouragement:  "Be strong and courageous, for you will lead these people to take the land for their own." V.6: "Be strong and courageous, and be careful to obey my commands." V.7  Finally, God said, "Be strong and courageous, and don't be afraid because I will always be with you."  V.9             God was encouraging Joshua, just like we were encouraging the runners in the race:  "Come on, you can do it!"  "Push harder, you're doing great!"  finally, "Don't give up, you're almost there!"  The difference, though, is that we gave the kids moral support. At the same time, God taught Joshua essential life lessons that would carry him through dark and challenging days.  "I will be with you;"  "Don't give up; I will help you do this."  Finally, "Do what I tell you, and you will be fine."              The message for us is simple as we endeavor to live our lives of faith:  "God is with us, and he will help us, every day, and in every way."  And, finally, "Trust God to help you, and trust him with your life."              Let me encourage you to hear God's word, which speaks often of faith and obedience.  Trust God with your life, and lethim use you and help you daily.   Your support is not just important; it's crucial to spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission. Your support is not just a gesture; it's a key factor in our journey, and your involvement makes you an integral part of our Ministry's mission.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture; it's a significant step towards making a difference in our community. Your support is appreciated and invaluable to us. Your financial contributions are not just a means of support; they are a testament to your commitment to our mission and a vital part of our operations. We value your contributions and the role you play in making our Ministry a reality.   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, we encourage you to download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. Staying connected with us is a great way to stay engaged with our community and our mission. We look forward to your continued support and involvement. Your active participation in our digital platforms will keep you updated on our activities and strengthen our community.   Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We are truly grateful for your contributions and the role you playin making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture, but a testament to your commitment to our mission. We look forward to your continued support and participation. Thank you for watching. We will see you next week, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our Ministry.

Years ago, as a student at a Baptist college, I heard a sermon that seemed so right – but was absolutely wrong!  The speaker said something like this:  "If you have sin in your life, God won't be able to use you; He will just use someone else and wait for you to get your life straightened out."  I, and all the other ministerial students at that service said loudly, "Amen!"  The message was a 'hit the sinners hard-with-the-gospel' approach that appealed to our youthful enthusiasm and affirmed our convictions regarding sin, and Christians who aren't 'serious' about Jesus.  We all went back to our dorm rooms' pumped up' about the message, and some of us even planned to use that approach, and maybe even that quote,' the very next time we preached.              Over the next few days, though, I had time to think about the message, and I realized something: If God won't use someone with sin in their life, who will he use?  Also, if God cannot use someone who hasn't gotten their life straightened out, when will I know I'm good enough for God to use?  These were daunting questions, so I asked my preacher friends what they thought.  Some didn't worry about it because it sounded good, but some of my more thoughtful friends agreed with me – something was wrong with what the speaker had said!             There is a story in the Old Testament book of Ruth about a woman of the same name who was really in a bad spot in life in the land of Moab.  Her husband had died, and she was alone with her mother-in-law, Naomi, who had come from another country in the city of Bethlehem, with no real prospects for a good life.  She decided she would go back to Judah with her mother-in-law and adopt the elder woman's faith in God.  When they arrived in the land, she had no job or money, so she began to follow the laborers in the field after harvest, picking up the scraps for her and her in-law.  Over time, a man noticed her in the field and arranged to meet with her.  Things progressed quickly; they eventually married, and she had a son named Obed.  This isn't really an unusual story, except that her son Obed grew up and married a woman and had a son named Jesse, who had a son David, who grew to become the King of Israel!  The ultimate end to the story, given in Matthew 1, was that, centuries later, in King David's family, a child whose name was Jesus was born!  Yes, the Messiah, the Son of God, was born because God worked with a woman whose life was in a mess.  She was no one special, new to the Jewish faith, and had nothing to give to God – except her willingness to follow God's lead.  God used  Naomi's influence and family connections to lead her to depend upon God, and God worked his plan to include a Moabite woman, Ruth, to be included in Jesus' genealogy in the first chapter of the Gospel of Matthew. This was more than just an acknowledgment of history; her inclusion in Jesus' family ancestry was God's way of saying to the world that He could use anyone, from any place, in his plan for all mankind – even a woman born and raised Gentile! This story is a powerful reminder that God's plan is inclusive, and He can use anyone, from any background, in his mission for all mankind.             God wants everyone to know that to him, there is only one people on earth – all are part of his creation, and all are called to follow Jesus.  God loves all people and can use anyone, no matter their story, in his plan to save the world from sin.  God is calling you to faith in Jesus and to live a life of obedience to his plan.  God will use you, help you find your place in this life, and bless you into eternity when you follow Him!   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is not just invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just appreciated, but it's essential to our mission. You are not just a supporter but a key player in our journey, and your support makes you an integral part of our Ministry.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture but a significant step towards making a difference in our community. Your support is appreciated and invaluable to us. Your financial contributions are not just a means of support, but a testament to your commitment to our mission and a vital part of our operations. We value your contributions and the role you play in making our Ministry a reality.   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, we encourage you to download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. Stayingconnected with us is a great way to stay engaged with our community and our mission. We look forward to your continued support and involvement.   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

Finding Your Purpose Through Following Jesus   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these videos with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is not just invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just appreciated, but it's essential to our mission. You are not just a supporter but a key player in our journey, and your support makes you an integral part of our Ministry.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture but a significant step towards making a difference in our community. Your support is appreciated and invaluable to us. https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give

Have you ever noticed that not everyone can do the same things?  I've noticed this with a couple of my grandchildren; they are both beautiful and healthy but have very different abilities!  One was born to be 'on stage;'  she is a natural entertainer and, even while very young, is comfortable performing in front of a large crowd.  She can sing, act, and do anything on stage without getting nervous!  Another of my grandchildren is a stone-cold academic and a top-tier athlete.  She scores near-perfect in almost all of her classes, memorizes vast amounts of information easily, and is growing up to be an excellent cross-country runner.  They are both amazing – but so different!  Thankfully, as they have grown up together, they have come to appreciate each other's abilities and skills without any of the jealousies young siblings so often have.   I mention my grandchildren and their gifts and abilities because God has given them different gifts and skills to be developed and used for various reasons.  In one part of his letter in the Bible, the author James mentions 'gifts from God' and gives us insight into the nature of these gifts.  He says, "Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow."  James 1:17   Here are a couple of things I've gleaned from this passage, and others in the Bible, about what we can consider gifts from God.  First, if there is something good in your life, consider it a gift from God!  God loves us and blesses us simply out of the goodness of His character and grace.  He gives us gifts for the same reason we give those we love gifts – to bless them and bring joy to their lives!  Another thing to remember is that God intends us to use, develop, and enjoy these gifts!  One may have to practice and learn skills and face down fears and insecurities, but the result is the ability to use and express those gifts to their fullest, bringing joy and inspiration to our lives.  Another thing: God wants us to develop and use our gifts to bring glory to him and draw others into a life-changing relationship with Him through Jesus.  Our gifts are ours, of course, and God gives us complete freedom to use them as we choose, but He wants us to accept them fully, develop them, and then use them in this life, bless others, and bring joy into our lives.          Let me challenge you to identify whatever gifts and abilities God has given you and then develop them to their fullest. Use your gifts to bless others and share the good news of Jesus as you serve him daily.   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is not just invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just appreciated, but it's essential to our mission. You are not just a supporter but a key player in our journey, and your support makes you an integral part of our Ministry.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture but a significant step towards making a difference in our community. Your support is appreciated and invaluable to us.   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

There has been a recent series of ads on Facebook, all dealing with the power of our choices.  The ads are all very similar:  On one side is a man who is well-muscled and physically fit, and the words "This is hard" across the top of the picture; on the other side is a picture of a man who is obviously overweight and unhealthy, with the words, "This is hard."  And then, along the bottom border, is the phrase, "Choose your hard."  The meaning is clear – 'You can choose the 'hard' of exercise and self-discipline and get a certain result, or you can choose the 'hard' of overeating and lack of exercise and get another result.  Both are 'hard' because one takes effort, and the other makes you miserable.  Life is hard, and the type of life you get is your choice! Your choices have the power to shape your life.   I often think of that series of ads because of the inherent truth – your life results from your choices!  Of course, there are accidents and outside influences, but for most of us, what we choose to do and how we choose to live determines the course of our lives!   You may not realize it, but that is a very 'Christian' way of thinking about your life and the practice of your faith. You can choose to ignore your faith and get very little from it, or you can choose to accept the Biblical teachings God has given us, allow them to shape your thoughts and actions, and experience the life that God has planned for you!   There is a passage in the Old Testament that can help us grasp the life-changing nature of true faith.  It states, "The Lord, the Lord God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generation."  Exodus 4:6-7   The passage presents several dramatic truths that can make a real difference in our lives when we choose to accept them.   First, God is a loving and compassionate God who is slow to anger and quick to forgive.  This means we can live with the conviction that God loves us and wants to help us in this life!  He does not wish to punish us; rather, He desires to lift us and help us rebuild our lives when we fall.  Second, God values truth and righteousness.  The God who loves is a God who speaks the truth and can help us discern the truths that can shape our lives and avoid the lies and deceptions of our fallen world.  Finally, God is a just and righteous judge who fully intends to punish sin.  There is no justice if there is no judgment!  As the passage said earlier, God does not wish to punish anyone; His choice would be for us to turn from our sin, receive the forgiveness He so freely offers, and rebuild our lives.  But, when people resist Him, God will punish sin – it is inescapable!  Our sin brings suffering upon us and upon those we love most.   This, of course, is the message of grace.  God loves us and wants to forgive and bless us, but we will reap the whirlwind if we reject his leadership.  When we choose the 'hard' of personal responsibility and faith, we can live with joy. On the other hand, the 'hard' of rebellion and living apart from God's grace leads to a life of spiritual emptiness and separation from God's love.  It is our choice!   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcats with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is not just invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just appreciated, but it's essential to our mission. You are not just a supporter but a key player in our journey, and your support makes you an integral part of our ministry.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture but a significant step towards making a difference in our community. Your support is appreciated and invaluable to us.   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

There are many ways by which people 'define' their lives and choose to live:   Some time ago, I stumbled upon an ad for one of those ancestry services that became so popular.  The ad focused on the story of a man who had always believed he was of German ancestry. So, to carry on the tradition of his German heritage, he often dressed in traditional Bavarian clothes, sang songs and performed in dance groups that featured German traditions.  He was happy with his Germanic heritage and made many good friends through these activities.  Interestingly, though, when he finally signed up to discover his family lineage, he found minimal German lineage; however, he had a powerful Italian ancestry!  He felt obligated to 're-define' his life so that his hobbies and interests were more consistent with his true ancestry.  He joined groups that honored and practiced his newfound Italian heritage. He had to learn new songs and dance steps to reflect who he was accurately. This transformation, guided by faith, is a powerful testament to the potential of faith to shape our lives. While the man's reaction to his ancestry is extreme, it vividly demonstrates the profound influence of one's 'identity' on their life. This concept, deeply rooted in the Bible, is a powerful force that can shape our lives in ways  we may not realize.   In both the Old and New Testaments, God speaks to his people about 'who they are.'   God teaches the reader who they 'are' and who they 'identify as' and can guide them as they determine the course of their lives. In one Old Testament Passage, Moses said this: ". . . You shall live in booths for seven days; all the native-born in Israel shall live in booths so that your generations may know that I had the sons of Israel live in booths when I brought them out from the land of Egypt.  I am the Lord, you God."   Leviticus 23: 42-43   Moses was teaching his people to 'act out' how their ancestors had survived the wanderings in the desert after the Exodus experience on a special once-a-year holiday called The Feast of Booths.  This was part of a larger celebration where the people would erect a small tent, or hut, outside their homes and live for a week to be reminded of how God worked in their history to form them as His people, the nation Israel.  As they participated in this practice year after year, they would begin to create their 'identity' as the chosen people of God, Israel.  It was a powerful teaching tool and was instrumental in helping them remember their heritage and make choices to further their lives of faith.     There are many examples of this kind of thing in the Bible, all with the same intent:  to help God's people 'identify' with God and continue practicing their faith.  One short passage in the New Testament was also compelling:  "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us  for it is written, 'Cursed  is everyone who hangs on a tree'- so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come the Gentiles so that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith."   Galatians 3:12-14.  Here, Paul was explaining to the Jewish Christians that their identity as Christians was because of Christ's work on the cross, just like the Gentiles.  Indeed, there was no difference at all because all who are "in Christ" are God's people, and they should live accordingly.   Who you 'are' is important!  God calls us to live 'in Christ' and to identify as God's people.  When we do this, our lives will be shaped by that conviction, and our faith will be a powerful force in our lives – just like God intended!  This, of course, will be a guide in every area of life and a way through which God can bless, use, and bring us joy.   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is not just invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is not just appreciated, but it's essential to our mission.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. Your support is not just a gesture, but it's a significant step towards making a difference in our community.   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

We've all heard crazy stories that are all but unbelievable, haven't we?  Interestingly, though, no matter how bizarre a story is, a few almost always believe it to be true. This is especially true with stories of alien abductions – people who say that they were taken captive by aliens from another world.  One of the first of these 'abduction' stories hit the news way back in September 1961, and it made quite a splash!   The couple involved in this story were a husband and wife named Barney and Betty Hill.  They made their story public and followed the publicity with interviews, investigations, and eventually a best-selling book.  They told the story with great conviction and presented drawings, pictures, and other details; they were pretty convincing in those days!  Mr. Hill died of a stroke a few years later, and Betty continued to tell her story to anyone who would listen for the rest of her life.  Neither of them ever waivered in their story – until their dying days, they were absolutely convinced that their story was the absolute truth!   As most of these stories go, this one, too, was thoroughly debunked.  No matter how much the Hills believed the story, it just wasn't true!             This sort of thing is not really unusual, is it? Even in the Church, people will tell stories of miracles or experiences and even teach 'truths' that are not true.    This was the case even in the very early years of Christian history.  Timothy was a young pastor of a church struggling with 'what to believe.'  There were false teachers and false teachings everywhere, and those in the Church were having trouble discerning what was true and what was false.  So, Paul, an older pastor, wrote him a letter giving him instructions.  Here is part of what he wrote to the young Pastor: "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires; and will turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn aside to myths."  II Timothy 4: 2-4             Paul anticipated a time in the Church when people would not be satisfied with the biblical message; instead, they would go after what was either new, exciting, or popular in the culture.  The Pastor's task was simple:  teach the word of God!  In discussions, bible studies, sermons, and everyday conversation.  Sometimes, the discussions would be easy and pleasant; at other times, they would be contentious and difficult.  But the task for the Pastor was to always teach the truth according to God's Word and do so with great patience.  How people felt about something did not determine the truth of their beliefs.  People would know the truth only by holding fast to the teachings in God's word!   Centuries later, those in the Church still must adhere to the truth of God's Word! Regardless of our title or role in the Church, we must hold fast to biblical teachings and resist the ungodly influences of the world around us.  That is the task of the pastor/teacher and the task of all who would follow Jesus.  What you believe matters!   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is not just invaluable, but it's integral. We are grateful for your contribution and urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. We value your contributions and your role in making our Ministry a reality. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

Have you ever read a 'news report' that didn't sound quite right? Are you familiar with the term 'fake news?    Some time ago, I came across an article discussing the years-long fight to get 'fat' out of our American diet.  Years ago, scientists had supposedly proven that fat in our diets was a terrible problem and that if we eliminated fats from our foods, we would be thinner, healthier, and probably look better!  Interestingly enough, researchers have recently begun to turn away from that perspective.  Even as many have eliminated fats from their diets,  our people have continued to gain weight and suffer more diet-related health problems.  The article acknowledged these phenomena and discussed the efforts to get fat from our diets.   The back story behind the idea that fat in our diets was the problem was initially suggested by those in the sugar industry.  The executives of several companies that manufactured sugar- and sugar-related products were trying to draw away any negative attention that sugar may have attracted by those researching foods. These executives influenced the scientific organizations to blame Americans' health problems on the fats in Americans' high-fat diets. This led to decades of low-fat advertising and low-fat products in the American food culture.    To put it bluntly, the idea that the fats in our diets were a significant problem for Americans was 'fake news!'  The food researchers and Sugar Industry executives purposely falsified information. They misled the American people so that theirsugar-related products would continue to do well in the marketplace.  Their plan worked, and for the last several decades, millions of Americans have been trying to lose weight and be healthy, cutting fat from their diets.  Unfortunately, there was no real focus on caloric reductions, including calories from sugars, which meant that people cut fats from their diets and still gained weight.  Instead of getting healthier, their health problems increased!   This is the danger of 'fake news.'  If you base your life upon that which is untrue, you always suffer in some way.  Regardless of what area of life you're talking about, the truth is always best!             The Apostle Paul never wrote about fats and sugars in your diets, to be sure. Still, he wrote that Christians needed to base their lives upon the truth, even when it was unpopular or painful.  In one passage in the book of Romans, he wrote, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus. ., for we maintain that a ma is justified by faith apart from works of the Law.  Or is God the God of Jews only?  Is he not the God of Gentiles also?  Yes, of Gentiles also. . . ."  Romans 3:23-24, 28-29. This passage is part of a long section where Paul taught the Roman Church that God was the One God, who loves and offers forgiveness to all.  Jews were called to worship the One God through Jesus, and Gentiles (non-Jews) were also called to worship the One God through Jesus.  Any other belief – that God loved one group more than another or that only certain people could be saved, was declared to be what we would today call "fake news."  There was already a problem with 'fake news' in the Church, and Paul knew the only way to root it out was to teach the truth clearly and expose that which was false.             Centuries later, there is still a problem with fake news in the Church!  Fake news in the Church is any idea or teaching that limits what kind of people can be saved; it is any action or practice that distorts the clear message of Jesus; and it is any belief that asserts the spiritual superiority of one group or individual over another.  But remember, the truth in the Church always unites God's people under the sign of the cross, making us all part of a larger, unified community.             Let me encourage you to be aware of any fake news you might hear in the Church. Choose to believe the truth that is in Jesus, and nothing else!   Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people. You are playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this mission is invaluable, and we are grateful for your contribution. We urge you to continue your support and inspire others to join us in this mission.   Your financial contributions are vital to making our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to our operations. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

Scratch Lotto – Win money, get the girl, travel, have a big house with a pool!              That's the commercial, isn't it?  It's always the same with the various get-rich-quick schemes:  Spend just a little bit of money, take your chances, and even if you lose, you're closer to winning.  If you lose, just buy another ticket, and eventually, you'll win, and it will all be yours!  And literally, millions of people have bought tickets, over and over, for decades.  For some, it's 'just for fun,' but ,it is a life-long obsession for others.             The tragedy of it all is that the happiness people chase is much simpler to achieve: a life lived by faith, where you love God and love people, is the life that will produce the happiness you desire.  If you fill your life with the desires and the things of this world, chances are you will never get what can fill your heart. But remember, the path to true happiness is not complex, it's simple and within reach.   Jesus knew this 'secret,' of course, and he told a parable to help people grasp the ways of happiness and joy.    "Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the wayside, and the fowls came and devoured them up:  Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth:  and forthwith they sprung up because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.  And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold."    The disciples did not understand the parable, so Jesus explained it:   When anyone hears the word of the Kingdom and doesn't understand it, the evil one takes it away. When someone hears and receives the word of the Kingdom, but isn't really serious, the seed is rooted at first, but then dies away quickly; When others receive the word, but never nurture their faith, it remains shallow, and hard times will destroy those beliefs; finally, when the word of the Kingdom falls on good soil, and is nurtured and watered and fed, that faith grows, and brings forth life, and joy. This is what Jesus meant when he told the parable of the sower. [Matthew 13:1-23]             What Jesus was saying was really quite simple:  If the message of Jesus is received, nurtured, and allowed to grow in one's heart, it will bring much joy to one's life.  God will work with them, help them transform their lives, and give them that which will bring joy!  However, if people don't receive the message of Jesus in a serious manner and invest their lives in knowing and serving Him, their initial interest in the faith will fade away, and they will be left on their own.  They will look for love and happiness in all the wrong places and live without the things God yearns to give them!             I hope you will receive the words of the Kingdom with the 'good soil' of your heart!  Receive the message of new life in Jesus, and nurture your faith, no matter what happens in your life.  God will bless you and bring you the joy and happiness you desire, even if you never buy a lottery ticket! !    Your support is not just important; it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people, but you are also playing a significant role in creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this is invaluable, and we are grateful for your contribution.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. These contributions will be used to support our various outreach programs, maintain our facilities, and provide resources for our community. We want to assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

Years ago, as college students, my fiancé and I made many friends – it was a wonderful time in our lives!  One young woman that comes to mind was attractive, energetic, upbeat, friendly, and a true pleasure to have around.  She and my fiancé became quite close, and Tammy (my fiancé) revealed that our good friend had a problem – she was, I was told, “a worrier.”  This was such a problem in her life that she often could not sleep and tended to ‘fret' over things that sometimes seemed very minor.  As time passed, her worries increased, and this young, attractive woman developed a nervous habit of tugging on her eyelashes.  So severe was this practice that she eventually had no lashes at all on one eye – in dramatic contrast to her other eye, which had long, flowing lashes.  It caused my wife great concern, of course.  They talked and prayed about her concerns, and she seemed to improve over time.  However, she continued to struggle with her worries and eventually sought professional help.   Over the years, I have encountered many others who, like us, have had severe struggles with worries and anxiety. We all worry to some degree, but for some, this issue can become overwhelming. In the book of Psalms, we find a passage that resonates with many of us:  “. . .In the day of my trouble, I sought the Lord; In the night, my hand was stretched out without weariness; My soul refused to be comforted.  When I remember God, then I am disturbed, When I sigh, then my spirit grows faint.  Thou hast held my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak. . . .”  77:1-6   . This is a man of faith whose troubles have overwhelmed him.  He is so consumed with worry that he cannot sleep, is overcome with fatigue, and, as he says, “my spirit grows faint.”   In other words, he is miserable and almost beyond going!  This is a feeling many of us can relate to, isn't it? But there is a better way to live!   The scriptures can lead us to a ‘better way' of life.  In the book of Philippians, the Apostle Paul wrote: “Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  Finally, brethren, what is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. Things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace shall be with you.”  4:6-9   Paul speaks of handling worry, often “anxiety,” or “anxious,” by teaching us to focus on the good things in life.  So, instead of letting our minds focus on the negative aspects of life (always present!), we are to dwell on the good things of life.  This doesn't take away legitimate concern; rather, it just keeps us from thinking about the negative aspects of life all the time.  Surprisingly, this is one of the objectives of a modern therapeutic approach – to re-focus our energies and thoughts on the good that is in life and not give negative power over our lives.  This is our choice: to control our thoughts, develop healthy ‘self-talk,' and become one who recognizes and deals with the existing problems but does not let them consume us.  The end result of living this way involves the “peace of God” coming into our lives.  God can help us control our thoughts, help us deal with the difficult issues in our lives, and, finally, give us a sense of peace in life that isn't based on one's situation but instead on the presence and influence of God.  This is the “peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension.” 4:7    God will not ‘fix' all your problems, but He can help you with them!  He will give you strength and guidance, and when we learn to focus on the good from God in our lives, He will give us peace.  And peace from God is the absence of the worry that consumes us!   Your support is not just important, it's crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are not just helping us reach more people, you are creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith. Your role in this is invaluable, and we are grateful for your contribution.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. We want to assure you that your contributions will be used with the utmost transparency and accountability. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

I recently discovered something I'd been searching for – a first-hand account of one of my Father's experiences aboard the U.S.S. Birmingham cruiser during WWII.  The ship was ordered to come alongside the U.S.S. Princeton, an aircraft carrier burning for several days. Supposedly, it was safe, as all thought the fires were out. Unfortunately, that was not true!  While in tow alongside the Birmingham, the ship exploded, killing over 800 soldiers on deck and causing significant damage to the Birmingham.  My Father was put to work cleaning up the body parts for the next couple of days, and the experience made a great impression on my Father's life!  He told me the story repeatedly, and now that he's gone, the story has become more important to me; I want to know about the forces and experiences that shaped his life!   After I found the article, I read it a couple of times and then sent it to my brother and sisters—I thought they needed to hear the story that shaped our Father's life. There are important lessons to learn, and they must be taught if they are to be passed on! This applies to lessons from our family's story, of course, as well as so many other things. We must be taught, or we will lose what we've been given!             That is one of the reasons that God gave us The Church – to pass down the important lessons that He has given us through the Gospel and in the scriptures themselves.  Jesus said this: "You are the world's light.  A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do men light a lamp and put it under the peck-measure, but on the 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 works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."  Mathew 5:14-16             Jesus was talking about how his followers, The Church,  were to ensure that others would hear his message of forgiveness and salvation.  Using the image of 'light in the darkness,' he taught the power of the Christian message.  Light can push back the darkness; in fact, the darkness is powerless against the light!  Jesus meant for them to grasp the power of his message of salvation and share it with others.  This 'light' of the Gospel can touch many different parts of our lives:  the spiritual aspect, of course, but also the value of the family system given by God, as well as a strong sense of personal responsibility.  When people learn how the Gospel can affect their lives and those of others and share that message, lives can be changed; in fact, the world can be changed!              This was God's plan:  He would work to bring salvation and new life through Jesus, and his disciples would spread the Word everywhere they went. The light of Jesus would bring life and joy to all who would receive it!              Let me encourage you to receive the light of the world, Jesus, into your life.  Then, follow Jesus' words: "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."    Your support is crucial in spreading the message of our Ministry. By sharing these podcasts with your friends and family, you are helping us reach more people and creating a community of believers who can find solace and strength in our shared faith.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

I grew up in a typical Baptist church in the Midwest, and I remember well when I first heard of the Holy Spirit.  It seemed that no one really understood who or what the Holy Spirit was!  Particularly challenging was the public anger aimed at those who often spoke of the Holy Spirit and began to practice and manifest the " signs of the spirit," such as speaking in tongues and all things "charismatic."  Churches split over these issues, and I was confused and a little bit suspicious of those who said 'too much' of The Holy Spirit!   When we consider the role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life, we often encounter a wide range of responses, from clarity to utter confusion.  This is a lamentable situation, as the Holy Spirit is not just a peripheral aspect of our faith, but an integral part. A comprehensive understanding and application of the Christian faith is impossible without a firm grasp of the Holy Spirit's work in this life and the life to come.   There are many passages and teachings about the Holy Spirit in the Bible.  Here is a couple that can give us insight about this 'Spirit of God: "You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world."  "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that overcomes the world – our faith."  I John 4:4, 5:4   In these two verses, John addresses a situation in which false prophets lead others away from true faith in Jesus.  These 'false teachers' have the spirit of "the antichrist," which is evil and works against the Gospel.  He teaches those early Christians that the Holy Spirit in them was more powerful than the spirit of the antichrist, and they had already beaten down that evil spirit because of God's power in the Holy Spirit!  There was no reason to fear the teachings of those false prophets or even the spirit of the antichrist because the Spirit of God had already won the war!              John makes  another point in Chapter 5: The victory that overcomes the world is "our faith."  Our faith in Jesus, our faith in the crucifixion, the power of God that raised Jesus from the dead, and our faith that has led us to live with the Holy Spirit within us; that is the victory that overcomes the world of evil!  Our performance of personal abilities will not determine victory over evil; our faith in the life-giving message of Jesus, at work through the Holy Spirit – will bring the victory that overcomes the world!   The Holy Spirit  is not a mystery, though there may be misunderstandings and misuses of the 'gifts of the Spirit.'  However, for true believers, it is clear that any manifestation of God's power in a situation is a direct result of the Holy Spirit's movement.  This is yet another compelling reason to follow Jesus:  God is actively working through his spirit.  By following Him in faith and serving the Kingdom of God, we align ourselves with this divine movement.   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcast with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

God Can Give us a sense of belonging.   The best way to support our Ministry is by sharing these videos with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/

talk about what had made a positive difference in their grief process.  They were church members, practicing Christians, and began to experience peace when they prayed.  Nothing of the situation changed, of course, but their prayers seemed to help.  Too, the prayers of their friends began to make a dramatic impact.  They said they really couldn't explain it, but they could “feel” when others were praying for them!  Many in their church visited and sat with them for months, talking and praying and sometimes just sitting with them silently.  The couple said these times of Christian fellowship were what got them through the darkest hours – they could feel God's love in those moments, and He began to work in their hearts to calm them, give them peace, and heal their wounds.             The interview was given three years after it had all happened, and the couple, now older and wiser, was able to smile and laugh and enjoy life once again. They still grieved the loss of their son, of course—that will never go away! However, their pain no longer dominated their lives; they had been able to move on, rebuild their lives, and experience joy once again.             What a tragedy!  And, even more importantly, what a powerful testament to the power of God's love at work in people's lives.  This is what God does – He helps us, He heals us, and, ultimately, He loves us through the hard times of our lives.  God works through His Spirit, which lives within us, and He works through The Church: Christian friends and a loving, caring body of people to help us.             God loves us all and is there for us, even when we cannot feel Him at work.  When we cry out to Him, He is there, doing what only He can do.   If you or someone you know is struggling with something, let me encourage you to trust God and pray to Him. He may not change the situation, but He will work in your life and change your heart—this is what God does!   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcasts with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.

Some time ago, I was walking in a large crowd of people during a local street fair when I encountered a young Latino family. The crown was large and a little loud, and the young mama held her children close. She was calming one, holding another, and keeping up a pleasant chatter with the family, a big smile on her face the whole time. I could not understand what she was saying, as I don't understand the Spanish language; at the same time, though, I could tell what she was saying to her family: “Calm down, I'm right here beside you;” “Don't cry, Mama's got you;” and, finally, I imagined, “Here, hold my hand, and we'll all stay together.” It was a very sweet picture of a young, loving mother nurturing and protecting her family, letting them know she loved them and that they would be ok as long as they were together.   I have often thought of that young family, especially when I encounter a very different family situation when I am out in public! Not all families are loving and sweet, of course. Some parents allow the emotions and stresses of the moment to cause them to lash out in anger at their children, sometimes speaking hurtful words to their young ones.    Those young mothers started the same, as innocent babies in their mama's loving arms. And yet, this life on earth changes and distorts us and seems destined to keep us from our best!    The Apostle wrote a letter to a young pastor named Titus and encouraged the young preacher to remind those in his church to remember that they were not always Christians, living a righteous life. Evidently, the Christians, who had grown in the faith and whose lives had improved, had become critical of their neighbors who were still living under the reign of sin in their lives. Paul reminded their pastor to challenge them all by saying, “Remind them to be obedient. . . uncontentious, showing every consideration for all men, for we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.” (3:2-4) He went on to say that Jesus “saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done. . . but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit. . . .” (3:5)   Do you see what Paul was saying? He challenged the Christians to be gracious and kind to sinners because they were just like them before they Jesus saved them! The Christians were in no position to criticize sinners because the only reason they were different was because Jesus had changed them!   This is just one of the great messages of the Gospel – God loves us, even in our sin! And, when we turn from our sin and follow Jesus, He will forgive us, ‘clean us up,' and help us to live better lives. Our faithfulness defines us, not our sin; because of our faith in Jesus, we have another chance at life!   Jesus can help us after we fall. If you are aware of your sin, which is holding you down in life, let me encourage you to pray to Jesus. Ask him for mercy and forgiveness, and turn your life over to him. He will cleanse your heart, begin the process of rebuilding your life, and shower your life with blessings. This is the wonder of the Gospel!   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for watching. We will see you next week.

A few weeks ago, my wife and I got into our car and pulled out of the driveway, going down the hill.  I looked over at Tammy, and, as she looked at her phone, she commented, “Siri, find (the address we were given for an event).  Siri said something in her pleasant, annoying, computer-generated voice and gave us directions in a timely fashion for the next hour or so.  On our way, I got confused in one of the new Round-a-bouts in K.C., and Siri, without insulting me at all, re-directed us immediately.  Even though we had to go through an unfamiliar area to get back ‘on track,' Siri got us to our destination just a few minutes later than planned. Going home, we did the same thing, and, again, after missing a turn, Siri re-directed us, getting us home without any trouble at all.   I love that woman! (Siri, that is – even though I love my wife, too).  We, like you, have repeated this process dozens of times in the past few years, and “Siri” has allowed us to go all over the place without even thinking about it.  Amazing!   Don't you wish we had something like Siri to guide us in the course of our lives? You know, to give us direction in difficult decisions, guide us when we get lost or make mistakes, and ultimately get us where we want to go and live as we want to live?     We do!  We who claim Jesus as our Savior and place our faith in his leadership in our lives live with the privilege of guidance from God himself!  The direction God gives does not come from any computer-generated personality, though. The ways of faith come as we allow the living God to speak and guide us as we read His Word, follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit, and learn from others in The Church.  There are many passages that speak of how God provides us a ‘way' to live.  One such passage is Hebrews 13. Here is a short passage:  “Let love of the brethren continue.  Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers. . . Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the  marriage bed be undefiled. . .; and, finally, “Let your character be free from the love of money.”     In one passage, we are taught that God guides us in many situations: Love people all the time, no matter what. Be kind and hospitable to all you encounter, especially those from another land. Make sure you keep your money and possessions in their proper place in your life.   Without too much effort, you can clearly see God's ways for you!  To live this way is more than God just teaching us a sense of obedience to him; instead, our obedience becomes a way that God can use to bless us!              Here is a simple example of how living according to the way of Jesus can allow God to bless you:  A person has a good job and makes a solid wage.  Great!  Suppose he handles that salary according to the ways of Jesus. In that case, he will save a portion, give away a portion, provide for his and his family's needs, and even have enough to help others.  If he avoids debt, his dollars will go further, and if he can control his spending and live within his means, his ‘nest egg' can grow and lead to greater security.  In this example, God's blessings aren't a result of God doing something special – God's blessings are simply the natural result of living according to God's ways!  Suppose the same individual disobeys God by carelessly spending too much on a vehicle or vacation. In that case, God cannot bless those actions.  The man will have financial problems and struggle in that area of his life.  Blessings come to one who lives according to the ways of God!              Let me encourage you to follow Jesus and live according to God's ways.  Your life will become more stable, and God's blessings will come your way.   Your support is crucial to our Ministry. By sharing these videos with your loved ones, you are not only spreading the message of God's love but also fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for watching. We will see you next week.

If you go to a “DIY” section of any bookstore or Library, you will find a fascinating and entertaining series of books, the titles all beginning with a very similar title:  Computing for Dummies, How to Fix Everything for Dummies, Woodworking for Dummies, etc. There are over 30 books in this top-rated series!  In fact, the DIY section in most bookstores is often very large – we in our culture have a very strong desire to do things ourselves without hiring someone else to complete a task or fix something broken.    Wouldn't it be great if we could fix everything in our lives by reading the proper “DIY” book?  Unfortunately, many things in our lives may be broken but cannot be addressed by a Do-It-Yourself book.  Physical problems that may require surgery, dental work, etc. And, of course, a broken life.  Many of us struggle with parts of our lives for years, and these problems resist self-help.  We need help!   I am currently preaching a series of messages dealing with ways to answer the question, “Why Should you Follow Jesus?”  One of the reasons might be stated:  God loves us and wants to Save us.”   That's right – One of the best reasons to follow Jesus is how God loves us!  We are familiar with one of the more familiar passages in John 3:  “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.  For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him.”  John 3:16-17   The reason that following Jesus is such a good choice in one's life is because Jesus is the way to know the God who loves us!  By our choices and lifestyles, we are all separated from God.  We may pray and receive no help.  We might try to ‘straighten ourselves out' but cannot stick to it.  And we might be unable to keep our family together, no matter how hard we try.  The God who loves us can help us with those things, and we gain access to His mercy and power through following Jesus as Savior.  Here's another passage from Romans 5 that might help us understand:  “But God demonstrates His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us, Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.” (vv.8-9)     When you receive Christ as Savior and follow him with your life, God begins to work in your life!  If you let him in, He can change your heart, wash away the guilt you may feel, and even start to change your life as you practice his teachings, found in the Bible.  The changes God may bring about will make your life better and enable you to experience what the Bible calls the “blessings” of God.    This offer of new life is for all people, for all time.  God loves everyone and wants to bless everyone through His Son, Jesus.  Let me encourage you to follow Him today!   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these videos with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for watching. We will see you next week.

Our nation is currently in a political ‘battle' to choose a new President. Although some enjoy this experience, most of us rather dread the whole process: One candidate criticizes the other, political parties and followers line up with ‘their' candidate, and we are forced to endure a seemingly endless number of political speeches, TV commercials, and even cleverly-written bumper stickers. Worst of all, in my opinion, is the continuous pleading of the candidates, each saying essentially the same thing:  “Vote for me,”“Join me,” and, finally, “Follow me.”   Of course, we all understand and accept this—we know that people must ‘follow' others in this life—be they a family member, boss, or even political leader. We function better when we learn that we must all look to others for guidance and leadership! This goes for every area of life, even that of religious faith.   This week, we begin a series of messages dealing with that very issue—the idea that we must learn to follow someone to have a healthy and productive life of faith. The series is entitled “Reasons We Follow Jesus.” For the first week, we focus on the fact that one would do well to follow Jesus because “He is the only God there is.”   Here is a passage where the Apostle Paul makes the case that Jesus is The One God: “And He is the image of the invisible God, the first-born of all creation. For by Him, all things were created, visible and invisible in the heavens and on the earth, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things have been created by Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:15-17   Paul makes the case here that Jesus was present at the beginning of time and was the ‘creative agent' that God used to bring about all that exists. God's power, at work in and through Jesus, formed the raw materials that make up all things, created the laws of physics that order all things in this universe, and then fashioned the raw materials in life and every living thing.              Doesn't it make sense that if we seek a ‘greater power' than us, we will worship The One that created us? Why would we look to anyone else for guidance, strength, and comfort?             Here are a few ideas to keep in mind when I say that we should follow Jesus because He is the only God there is:   Jesus, God the Son, was “in the beginning” before all things. No one else ‘created' Jesus. He is the fullness of Deity.    Because Jesus created us physically, spiritually, and emotionally and designed us to live in relationships with others, He is uniquely qualified to understand and help us. No one else can know us like Jesus!   Finally, Jesus is eternal God, without beginning and end. He is without equal and will exist forever: He will always be there for us!   We follow Jesus because He is The One God. Join us in this faith!   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcasts with your friends and family.    We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/.    If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/.   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.

Rev Kev is on vacation this week, so Pastor Dave is filling in. He shares a message about how Christians can Live In the World, Not Of It.   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcasts with your friends and family.    We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/.    If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/.   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.

Following Jesus is easy and clear—until it isn't! What I mean by that is when someone first receives Jesus as Savior, the issue is usually very simple: "Do you want to be forgiven of your sins and commit to following Jesus?" The answer is usually, "Yes, I do." However, at some point, when the new convert begins to struggle against the sin that is their life, or they struggle with biblical teachings that challenge them, they begin to realize just how 'extreme' this Christian faith can become!   The 'extreme' nature of the faith occurs in at least two areas of life. First, the beliefs that lead to salvation are quite extreme. We believe that our salvation is based on the truths of the Gospel: God came in the flesh as the infant Jesus and lived a sinless life. When he was about 33 years old, though, he was crucified by the Roman government, buried, and then came back to life after three days in the grave. This was God's way of offering us cleansing from our sins and a chance at a better life now, as well as an eternal life with Him after our life on this earth is over. This is an extreme set of beliefs!   The other area where the faith becomes extreme is how we live our daily lives. God calls us to not only learn some of the spiritual beliefs of the faith but also expects us to live our lives based upon those beliefs! The self-control of our emotions and passions and offering love and forgiveness to others are to be valued by those who follow Jesus. He also calls us to give up part of our lives to serve others in the name of Jesus, help those in need, and proclaim the message of Jesus to anyone who will listen.   This is an extreme faith! It is much more than just "listen and learn." It is also "practice and do!" When we live as God calls us to live, our lives are better. God blesses us, and we can even become a blessing to those around us.   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcasts with your friends and family.    We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/.    If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/.   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.

Several years ago, my wife and I bumped into an old college friend; he was a great guy, and we both liked him very much. He went by a nickname that fit his character, and I could never remember calling him by his proper name. He seemed ok with that, so I had no reason to question the practice. When we ran into this old friend, he was with his young wife, whom we had never met. I walked up to him and called him by the nickname I had always used, and the situation immediately became very awkward. He ignored me entirely and turned to walk away, and his wife, who heard me call out to him, didn't seem to recognize the name I had used for her husband!     My wife and I were a little hurt, but then we talked about it. My wife, who tends to ‘read' social situations better than I do, finally concluded that he had likely never liked the nickname and now, as an adult, did not want it to be used. Rather than confronting me, though, he just chose to walk away!   Sometimes, people are known for something and given a name, even though it may no longer ‘fit,' or they simply don't like it anymore!   There is a story in the Bible about a man who was nicknamed for one of his actions. If he were alive today, he would be repelled by the nickname he was given. The story is recorded in the Gospel of John, chapter 20.   Jesus called out the disciples from everyday life, and one of them was Thomas. This man was strong and outspoken, but he sometimes tended to be stubborn.   All in all, though, Jesus thought he would make a good disciple. A couple of times, he blurted out something foolish or ‘over the top,' but nothing that really amounted to anything. And then, just three days after Thomas and the other disciples watched Jesus die on the cross and heard the story of his burial in a tomb by a wealthy man named Joseph, something unimaginable happened. The disciples had gathered together to grieve the loss of their Rabbi, and all of them were there except for Thomas. At some point in their time together, Jesus appeared to them! He had risen from the dead, as he had predicted, and they were amazed and excited and relieved to see Jesus alive. It was a wonderful time for them all!   The next time the disciples gathered, Thomas was there. They told him the good news, and he couldn't believe it! He was so adamant in his disbelief that he proclaimed, in front of his friends, that unless he could see the wounds on Jesus' hands, put his fingers in those wounds, and the cut on his stomach, he would not believe! Eight days later, the disciples gathered again, and Jesus appeared to them all. He gave them a greeting common in that day, and then, without wasting any time, turned to Thomas and said, “Reach here your finger, and see My hands, and reach here your hand, and put it into My side; and be not unbelieving, but believing.” (v.27)  Thomas was stunned! He looked around and then examined Jesus' wounds. Without saying anything else, he blurted out, “My Lord and My God!” (v.28). Jesus chastised him a bit, explaining that those who believed without seeing him were blessed. The issue was never addressed in the Bible again. Forever after, in church history, Thomas was given the nickname “Doubting Thomas.”   It was insulting and unfair, to be sure, but the name has ‘stuck' on this disciple for over 2000 years!   Unfortunately, he has never received the credit he deserved for his life of faithful service because of that one ‘failure of faith.'   “Doubting Thomas” continued to follow Jesus faithfully and ended up in India, where he led hundreds to faith and established many churches up and down the coast in that heavily populated nation.  No one who knew him and served with him would ever have called him by the nickname he still uses today in the Western Church! He is remembered as a strong, passionate, and dynamic minister of the Gospel.    “Doubting Thomas” simply no longer existed!   God works with people who fail, even with disciples who say something foolish in a crisis. God used Thomas, and he can use us as we turn from our sins, allow God to nurture us in our faith, and get to work.   Please join us for worship and praise every Sunday starting at 10:30 AM. We are located at 500 W. Truman Road, Independence, MO.   Our ministry is also reliant on the generosity of our congregation. Please consider contributing online by clicking here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

I was talking to a good friend recently, and we were lamenting that it was becoming increasingly difficult to believe what our political leaders would tell us. Sometimes, it is obvious they do not understand what they are talking about; sometimes, we get the distinct impression that we are being lied to, even though we cannot prove it. To emphasize that this has happened before, I mentioned a report that recently came out regarding our government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in the spring of 2020. The report clarified that many mistakes were made, including false information being passed on to people. Because of this, even more mistakes were made, and people began to lose faith in "the system." The commentator who reported on this then mentioned, almost casually, that it would be long before the people's trust would be gained. Once you lose someone's trust, it is tough to gain it back!   There are many passages in the Bible where God promises to us.   Sometimes, He promises a blessing if one follows a particular pattern of behavior; other times, He promises to act in certain ways and work to bring about a specific outcome. Whenever He promises to us, He always follows through! God may not do things according to our timetable, but He always makes good on His Word.     The story of Jesus' crucifixion is just such a word. God promised us, in many ways and times, that He would send an anointed one, a 'Messiah,' to come and save humanity from sin. This Messiah would offer himself up as a sacrifice and, in doing so, would pay the price for our sins and make our salvation possible. One such promise comes through the prophet Isaiah: "But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging, we are healed." 53:5  The Apostle Paul, writing to the church at Corinth over 750 years later, wrote of the fulfillment of this promise of God: "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sin according to the Scriptures." 15:3  God kept His word! This has happened hundreds of times in Scripture. Christians often speak of God keeping his word to care for them, protect them, and give them encouragement and strength - just as He promised in a biblical passage.   This week, we will remember Jesus' crucifixion on the cross and be reminded that it fulfilled one of God's promises to us all. God is a God of His Word! You can trust Him with your life and believe what He says in Scripture. You can base your life on it!   Please join us for worship and praise every Sunday starting at 10:30 AM. We are located at 500 W. Truman Road, Independence, MO.   Our ministry is also reliant on the generosity of our congregation. Please consider contributing online by clicking here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!

Have you ever heard a story that seemed impossible? The Bible has many such stories!            In one Old Testament book, the book of Jonah, there is the story of a man who was in a boat during a tremendous rainstorm; the situation was so desperate that the sailors on board began to throw everything off the ship to lighten its load and raise it in the water. The man, Jonah, realizing that he was the reason for the storm because of a wrong decision on his part, told the sailors to throw him into the water; they did so, and the storm stopped, and the waters immediately calmed. Instead of drowning, though, Jonah was swallowed by a giant fish; after three days, the fish vomited him up on a nearby beach. What a story! Why in the world would such a story be placed in the Bible, which is considered a religious work that happens to include a history of the Jewish people?             The story of a man swallowed by a big fish who lived to talk about it is an account of how God worked with one of his prophets, Jonah, to reach a people group in a nearby city with his message of forgiveness. Let me explain:             Jonah was a prophet with the Hebrew people when God called him to go and preach a warning of imminent destruction to the people of the city of Nineveh. He was to go and tell the people that their destruction could be avoided if they would turn from their wicked ways and worship the Hebrew God. Jonah refused because he did not like the Ninevites.  They were sinful people, and Jonah, rather than warning them of coming judgment, wanted just to let them die!    He refused God's call, got on a ship, and went as far away as possible; this is where the story of the storm and great fish came from! God had caused the storm to stop Jonah from running away; the great fish was one of God's ways of rescuing him from drowning and giving him a chance to reconsider his choice to run away. Jonah relented while in the fish's stomach and, after being vomited up on a beach, proceeded to Nineveh. He went and warned them of their coming destruction, and, in an act that surprised everyone, the people turned from their sin and became people of faith, thus saving themselves from certain destruction!               This should have made Jonah happy, but instead, it made him angry. He didn't want them to be saved! So, he threw a fit, ran, and hid from God in the desert. God grew a special plant to shade the prophet from the blazing sun to demonstrate the prophet's messed-up priorities. And then, God destroyed the plant, and, predictably, Jonah threw another fit about the plant. God confronted him by saying, and I will paraphrase here, "Jonah, you're so messed up; you care more about a dead plant than you do about the people of Nineveh! I am God and care about all people, not just those you like."             Wow – what a story! And, more importantly, what a great truth that story communicated!    The point of the story was not that God could save Jonah from drowning by using a big fish; the point was that God loved everyone, even the sinful Ninevites, and wanted to save them! Jonah only loved certain people and only certain types of people. Instead of representing the truth of our loving God, he chose to ignore the very message he was to preach: Jonah was a bigot! A bigot rejects and even hates those who are different or from a different group or nation – that was Jonah.             God loves everyone, and he calls his people to do the same. It is a message that can change the world when we live out a truly revolutionary conviction!   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcasts with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.

Sometimes, in times of stress or hardship, we may wonder if God is doing anything!             As a student preacher in college many years ago, I wondered how God would get me into a church. I didn't know much, I wasn't connected to influential people, and I was struggling with deciding which Seminary I would attend to finish my education. I was slightly afraid of the whole thing. I even wondered if I had correctly discerned God's call on my life into the preaching ministry. Looking back, though, I can now see the ways that God was working!            While this was all happening, the long-term Pastor in my home church retired, and some new guy was there – a total stranger! He attended my wedding, one of his first events as the new Pastor. We talked for a little bit and immediately became friends. He questioned my life plans and even made it a point to speak to my new bride. He was just a nice, average person who happened to be a preacher -or so I thought! In just a few months, this new friend that God had brought into my life greatly impacted my life.   In the months after the wedding, my new friend investigated the churches around my home church and found a small church without a pastor. He made a few phone calls on my behalf and then called me one evening.    He told me he had found a small church that needed a pastor and wondered if I would be interested. I was astounded that he had done this for me!    One thing led to another, and just a couple of months later, that small church called me as their Pastor. We eventually moved from the college town we lived in for five years into the church's parsonage. For the next three years, I practiced the craft of preaching, made good friends, learned to lead a church, and, to top it all off, decided to attend a seminary within an easy driving distance from my church. God was working! He worked through a man God had brought into my contacts; He worked through my new friend's desire to help a young, unproven preacher student get into a church. He worked through those first few years of my service as a Pastor and attending a Seminary to shape me for the next 40 years of Ministry.     Looking back at my story, I am reminded that God is working—even when you don't realize it! This is one of the great messages of the Bible, and it is particularly evident in the Book of Esther.    Esther was just a young girl in the city of Susa, but God had plans for her. She ended up the wife of the King and earned the title “Queen Esther.”  She worked in a corrupt and terrifying system to make a good life and even save her Jewish relatives from annihilation.    She is remembered fondly by those of the Jewish faith and is a testament to the truth that God is at work, even when you may not realize it at the time. God used a young woman and her cousin, Mordecai, to save his people. All they did was place their faith in God's direction, and He did all the rest!   Let me encourage you to allow God to work in your life. Ask and pray for guidance from Him, and when you sense his leadership, follow him in faith. He will guide your steps and give you a life you could never imagine.    You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcast with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our Ministries a possibility. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.

The story could have been taken from today's tabloids – it was so bizarre and unbelievable!             There were two prostitutes living together in a dirty, run-down part of town. Both were pregnant and finally gave birth just a few days apart. Everything was going as well as they could, considering their miserable circumstances. One night, though, one of the women rolled over in bed on her baby, suffocating it.    She woke up in horror the following day and was terribly distraught – her baby was dead! But then, in an instant, the sound of her friend's baby, sleeping in a nearby room, gave her an idea: she would take her dead child, wrapped in her blanket, and sneak into her friend's room. There, she would switch her lifeless child for the live one – surely the other woman would not notice! She would claim that it was the other woman's baby that had died in her sleep, and the now lifeless child was hers! It seemed like a good plan, and it worked – until morning!             In the darkness of the early dawn, the other woman awoke to find the dead child in her bed – she was so distraught! But then, as light filled the room, she recognized the child – it was her friend's baby!  She immediately figured out what had happened and thus began the fight of her life for her child!             There was no way the other woman would admit to the switch – a baby was at stake! So, they took the case to court before King Solomon. He was already known as a wise and fair judge – he would fix this! Solomon heard their emotional plea – the one whose child had been stolen was distraught, and the other, who had made the switch, was enraged with her accusations!    The crowd hung on this story – what would the wise king do? How would he know which woman was lying? He considered the circumstances and considered the women and their demeanor as they told their stories. Then, he prayed to God for wisdom. Finally, he announced: “Bring me a sword!” He explained that because neither would relent, he would have the child cut in two – each woman would have to be satisfied with one-half of a now-dead child. In horror, the mother of the baby pleaded with the king and asked him to give her baby to the other woman. She explained that she would instead give up the child and have it live with the other woman rather than be killed. The other woman, surprisingly, cried out for the king to cut up the child and be done!              This final word helped King Solomon decide; he ordered the baby to be given to the mother who wanted to save the child. He understood that only the true mother would do anything to keep the child's life – even if it meant the child would be given to another woman.               The crowd was amazed, and this story made news for years! In fact, over time, Solomon became known as one who had been given a special gift of wisdom from the One God – and people traveled from all over the world to hear him speak.             That is quite a story, isn't it? There is at least one great truth we can glean from this story. When we consider how God moved in Solomon's life, we learn that the God who loves us can give us the wisdom to face the circumstances of this life. We can pray to God and ask for wisdom and guidance, and He will, in some way, help us do the right and good things. We do not have to live at the mercy of our emotions or the schemes of those around us. God can help us think, discern the truth, and make a decision that will enable God to work with us and guide us through whatever troubles us.    Wisdom is a gift that God can give to those who trust in Him.   You can best support our Ministry by sharing these podcasts with your friends and family.   We also need your financial contributions to make our ministries possible. You can contribute online at https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   If you would like to stay up to date on all things FBC, download our App by clicking here https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or by Liking our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/   Thank you for listening. We will see you next week.