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First Steps – May 14, 2018

Trees are similar to our souls, both require two basic initial ingredients that are essential for its future: good soil and strong roots. However, we cannot grow strong roots without good soil.

Therefore, what is good soil for our souls? With what do we fill this hole we’ve created? Generally good soil is made up of about 25 percent water and 25 percent air (made mostly of oxygen and nitrogen). The other half is made of stone, clay, and organic matter – decaying plant and animal life. We are not surprised to learn that soil is half air and water – things we know we need in order to live as much as trees do.

But what is the spiritual equivalent of good dirt? The answer: humility. Just as trees wither and die without good soil, our soul will not grow without humility. With that soil in place, roots can form in the earth, and as they grow deep and strong, the tree moves out of the ground and toward the light. If you want to grow in your faith, humility is a must. For this reason, remember the words of Jesus, “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:4).

 

 

 

This week’s reading:

  • Monday – Mark 4
  • Tuesday – Mark 5
  • Wednesday – Mark 6, 7
  • Thursday – 1 Corinthians 13
  • Friday – Mark 8

 

Please Pray for:

  • Our Military – leaders and soldiers
  • Our families, workplace, church, and community
  • Those grieving the loss of loved ones
  • Building Renovations, Modifications, and Phase 3: Construction of New Youth Building and rear parking
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First Steps – May 7, 2018

Each Sunday we pray what is considered to be the most famous prayer in all of Christendom—the Lord’s Prayer.   This prayer contains two sections that help you reflect on and pray for a greater knowledge of God. The first line of the prayer, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name,” reminds you that you should enter into the presence of God with great reverence for the Almighty and personal humility in that holy presence. Later in the prayer, the line “Give us this day our daily bread,” reminds you of your reliance on God’s goodness. This triggers a sentiment of gratitude and leads you back to the humility that comes from admitting your absolute dependence on God.

Give this prayer a try.  Imagine yourself in the presence of God trusting in his goodness for your life.

 

This week’s reading:

  • Monday – Acts 27
  • Tuesday – Acts 28
  • Wednesday – Mark 1
  • Thursday – Mark 2
  • Friday – Mark 3

Please Pray for:

  • Our Military –  leaders and soldiers
  • Our families, workplace, and community
  • The Unwillingly absent
  • The St. Paul Church family
  • Building Renovations, Modifications, and Phase 3: Construction of New Youth Building and rear parking
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First Steps – April 30, 2018

Jesus not only firmly maintained his own freedom of choice, but also respected the free choice of others. When the rich young ruler turned sorrowfully away from the invitation to be Jesus’ disciple, Jesus grieved because he had loved this man. But Jesus did not run after him pleading and pushing. Later, Jesus rebuked the disciples when they wanted to call down vengeful fire from heaven on the towns that did not welcome them. Likewise, when Martha asked Jesus to make her sister, Mary, come back into the kitchen and cook, Jesus defended Mary’s decision to stay with him and talk. It is significant that though he preferred Mary’s choice, he did not compel Martha to make the same decision.

God is not a violator of one’s will. Real love involves freedom that allows another to choose what they will be and do. Granted God will go farther than anyone can imagine to influence a relationship of faith; however, He will never coerce.

It is hard to imagine being loved that much, so today give thanks for God’s rich agape love!

This week’s reading:

  • Monday – Acts 22
  • Tuesday – Acts 23
  • Wednesday – Acts 24
  • Thursday – Acts 25
  • Friday – Acts 26

Please Pray for:

  • Those grieving the loss of loved ones
  • Those that are Unwillingly absent
  • High School & College Seniors preparing for graduation
  • The St. Paul Church family and ministries
  • Building Renovations, Modifications, and Phase 3: Construction of New Youth Building and rear parking
  • Our Nation and Our Leaders
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