2013- A Year of Giving Thanks Rejoice always, pray without ... · 2013- A Year of Giving Thanks Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, ... which surpasses all understanding will ...

Lenten Devotions 2013Ash Wednesday (February 13) - Easter Sunday (March 31)

Griffin First UMC Discipleship Committee

2013- A Year of Giving Thanks Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is

the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (I Thessalonians 5:16-18)

GRIFFIN FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHMaking disciples for Christ through vibrant worship, dynamic education, and joyful service.

1401 Maple Drive Griffi n, GA 30224 770-228-3020www.griffi n-fumc.org

Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say; Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. Th e Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

In 2013, our pastors have challenged us to come together as a congregation with a year of giving thanks. Th is devotional booklet is designed with the challenge in mind.Th e Discipleship Committee challenges you to read a devotion each day during the Lenten season with an open mind and heart…open to God’s message for you. We challenge you to rejoice every day, pray every day, and express your gratitude to someone every single day. Enter this great season of Lent, this time of focus on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ with expectation. Expect joy. Expect blessings. Expect God to be near. Expect understanding and peace. On Ash Wednesday we confess our sins and we dedicate ourselves to doing what we can to change our ways. During this confession, we also remind ourselves God loves us always, no matter how sinful we may be. Th is day…this Ash Wednesday, we should rededicate ourselves to expressing our gratitude to someone every day as we begin this reading together as a congregation.Th ank you to all the congregation members, ministers, and staff who contributed such personal and loving insights in the daily devotions.

Th e Discipleship Committee Griffi n First United Methodist Church Lenten Season, 2013

Wednesday, February 13

Ash Wednesday 4 “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand.5 Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? 6 On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone—7 while the morning stars sang together and all the angels[a] shouted for joy? Job 38: 4-7 (NIV)

Saying thank you and being grateful is something that has been ingrained in me from the time I was little. My parents took time to teach me to say thank you and be grateful for what we had. It was a lesson that at the time I really didn’t fully understand. I thought it meant just be happy with the people around you. It also meant that we should just appreciate the time or eff ort people put into helping us at one time or another. As I sat down to write this devotion I thought that I wanted to write about how thankful I am to be part of a growing and loving community of Christ. I started writing about all the things I was thankful for in our church and how grateful I was for the opportunity I have had to worship and learn with each of you. Th e more I wrote I started to realize that I was leaving out how thankful I am for the opportunity God has given us to live and experience his creation. Th e book of Job isn’t where I normally look for examples of thankfulness. Yet when we read it in a High School Bible Study a few weeks ago, I realized how grateful I am that God set up this wonderful creation for us to all experience. We have an opportunity to grow closer to God and each other in a place he designed and built just for us. In this passage God reminds all of us that he is the creator of the universe. He is the creator of our world and that we did not lay out the foundations of earth while the angels sang for joy. We aren’t responsible for the creation we enjoy daily and never could have imagined something so amazing or complex. How powerful is it for us to hear from God directly about the world he built for us? What an amazing visual to think about as we move through lent. When we are focusing on the cross and what Jesus paid for our sins, we have a visual of what it was like at the very beginning of time. As the very foundations of the earth are being laid, the angels are singing for joy. Although, we had not had the chance to experience it yet, God was building our world and had already set out the plan for our redemption. God built all of this with us in mind. Even through all of our mistakes, missteps, and rejections God still believed we were worth it. I think this is a reason for us to be grateful.

Prayer: Dear God, we thank you for your plan of redemption and the world you created for us. Help us to be aware and thankful for it every day. Amen.

--John Stikes

Thursday, February 14Make a joyful noise unto Th e Lord. (Psalm 100:1)

“Joyful noise” can be a diffi cult concept to reconcile. So oft en, “noise” is associated with discord or intrusion. Th ere is a place, however, where the noise is truly joyful...each Th ursday at 9:30 here at the church, our preschool celebrates Th e Lord in chapel. All those sweet little voices joined together in assurance that “Jesus Loves Me” and “We’ve Got So Much To Be Th ankful For” makes a heart smile! Plus, in these precious moments, there is the opportunity to participate, to do as that simple word in the verse, “make,” compels us. Even those of us not known for lovely voices, can join in without embarrassment or censure. We can lift our voices in the most joyful noise, God’s children praising Him in song.If you happen to be free Th ursday morning, come “make a joyful noise” with us...your spirit will soar!

Prayer: Th ank you for accepting our grateful songs of praise. Amen.

--Katie Brasfeild

Friday, February 15Ephesians 5:20 - Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

We enjoy giving our grandchildren gift s and deep down inside hope for some tangible acknowledgement of the gift - a phone call is nice, and a thank you note is especially appreciated, as it takes a real eff ort. Any notes we receive are read over several times before being fi led away for a future smile. I had a nice surprise the other day, when I received an unexpected thank you note from my daughter-in-law. I had assumed that since they are so busy the recent notes from the kids would suffi ce for everybody. She will never know how much I appreciated her taking the time to tell me she got my gift and how she planned to use it. It was a lovely note. I have an aunt, now in her 90’s, that told me she always gets thank you notes from her grandchildren because she told them at an early age that if she did not receive a thank you note, they could expect to receive a yearly birthday card, but it would not have the currently enclosed check. She said she always gets her thank you note. I think God also appreciates “thank you notes” from us. Whether it is a heartfelt prayer or a gift in kind in His name, I think our motive is what makes it special, because we want to say thank you and not because we have to or are afraid if we

don’t we won’t get our blessing. As we enjoy each new day He has given us, let us look for His gift s. Th e air we breathe, the food we eat, the means he has provided for us to know Him through the kindness of others, the gift of coming to earth to exchange His life for ours – for this we give thanks.

Prayer: Lord, Help us to see your gift s and appreciate. Amen.

--Cathy Brooks

Saturday, February 16I have seen something else under the sun: Th e race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all. Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NIV)

God is a God of second chances. He gives us all second chances and we should take advantage of that!A few weeks ago when the Atlanta Falcons were playing the Seattle Seahawks, we saw this play out in real life. With a few seconds left in the game, the score one point in the Seahawks favor, the Falcons kicker took to the fi eld. Just as the ball was hiked, the Seahawks coach called a time out, hoping the stress would distract the kicker. Th e ball sailed wide right – it was no good, but the kick didn’t count! Given a second chance, the kicker made his next fi eld goal count. Th e kick was good for three points and the Falcons won the game. Th e kicker didn’t do anything to deserve a second chance and it was through nothing he had done that he got that second chance.Today you may be given a second chance to right a wrong. With gratitude and thanksgiving in your heart, take advantage of your second chance! You’ll be glad you did!

Dear God, we thank you for loving us and giving us many chances to get things right. Help us as we go through this day to shine the light of Jesus Christ into the world around us. Amen.

--Tom Barrett (as told to Debby Stikes)

Sunday, February 17Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. John 11:25Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6

Th e story goes that there was a tribe that lived in a valley surrounded by high walls and sheer cliff s, cut off from all other populations. Th ere was one small opening, no more than a slit, which opened up into the world beyond. Th e wise man of the tribe looked out into the vast world every day. And day aft er day, he would see a horse pass by. First he would see the horse’s nose, then the head and the ears, then the horse’s neck followed by the long strong back, and fi nally he would see the horse’s tail. Aft er seeing this same sight for many days, he called the entire tribe together. “It is obvious,” he declared, “THE NOSE CAUSES THE TAIL!” And he was revered by all as a wise man indeed. Th ere are men (and women) who claim to have all the answers. Some are sincere and well-meaning. Others are simply deceptive or misguided. And many times it is very diffi cult to determine which is the case. It is for this reason, we can be grateful that Jesus came into the world. In many cases, He spoke in parables, and He said things that we are still trying to understand today. But in one area, He was very clear: “I am the way, the truth, and the life…” Trust in our Lord Jesus and He will lead us to promised salvation.Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for our many blessings. Help us to stay clearly focused on your word. Guide us in our quest for understanding. In the name of God the Farther, Jesus the Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit our Comforter. Amen.

--Bill Th ielemann

Monday, February 18Give thanks in every situation because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Th essalonians 5:18

In this technological world we live the simple task of writing a note to say thank you is a thing of the past. As a young child, my mother would remind me to write thank you notes. I remember how I dread doing this very simple task, not understanding the signifi cance of taking the time to let someone know how much I appreciated their kindness. I do remember my grandmother expressing to me how much those little notes of gratitude meant to her. I wonder now as an adult, do we leave it to others to express thanks for what people do for us? Is it not up to each one of us to show gratitude every day? What greater gift was given to us from our Father than that of the life and sacrifi ce of Jesus Christ? Do we all wait for Sunday mornings to say thank you to our Father for this gift ? Should we not get on our knees and express our gratitude to our Father daily? Paul wrote in I Th essalonians 5:18 “to give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus”. Th ere is no direction on how to express this gratitude and how oft en we should do this, just do it! A show of gratitude can be as simple as a smile, a hug, and simple “Th ank you”. You never know how much these gestures will make someone feel. Take the time

to express thanks both God and to others who have helped and blessed each of us. You will, as Clint Eastwood said “make their day”.

Prayer: Dear Father, thank you every day for the greatest gift you gave to us, Jesus. Please help us to do as you require and say “thank you” daily to all the people who bless our day. Amen.

--Fran Stikes

Tuesday, February 19“...Th e Lord is near...” Philippians 4:5

Th e Lord is always near. He knows our pain and our joy. He hears our prayers. I know he hears us. If we can be still, we will hear him. We will see his presence in our life.Be thankful for our church family that loves God and brings him near. Be thankful for the members who undergird your faith, believe for you when you struggle, encourage you when you are weak, and hold you or carry you when you are not able to help yourself. Be thankful for the teachings and love of Christ that are at work within us. Ask God to use you to bring Him near to someone in need. Dear God, I give thanks to you for my church and the many ways in which I am reminded that you are near. Help me Lord to pass your love to others and remind them that you are near. Amen.

--Margaret Andrews

Wednesday, February 20“ ‘Th ese are the regulations for the fellowship off ering a person may present to the Lord: “ ‘If he off ers it as an expression of thankfulness, then along with this thank off ering he is to off er cakes of bread made without yeast and mixed with oil, wafers made without yeast and spread with oil, and cakes of fi ne fl our well-kneaded and mixed with oil. Along with his fellowship off ering of thanksgiving he is to present an off ering with cakes of bread made with yeast. He is to bring one of each kind as an off ering, a contribution to the Lord; it belongs to the priest who sprinkles the blood of the fellowship off erings. Th e meat of his fellowship off ering of thanksgiving must be eaten on the day it is off ered; he must leave none of it till morning.” Leviticus 7.12-16

When I was about twenty-two I tried to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. I grew up in church but my knowledge of scripture was minimal at best—I could have picked out the stories of Noah, Abraham, Moses, King David, and Jesus if given multiple choice options. I recognized my knowledge of Scripture was lacking so I decided to read the Bible cover to cover. I made it

through Genesis with a fairly high level of enthusiasm. Exodus was okay but it started getting wordy around the tabernacle. By the time I got into Leviticus, I had reader’s fatigue. All those laws wore me down, so I tapped out.In the years since, I have completed the Bible and studied it extensively. I now have a new appreciation for Leviticus. Although it is still wordy, the beauty lays in the circumstances. Leviticus was written aft er the Israelites had recently escaped 400 years of slavery into the desert. God’s people had forgotten about God. So God gave instructions on how to live as his people. Leviticus is God’s instructions. Th ey come off as very restrictive, but consider what they’re for. Th e Jews forgot what it means to live a lifestyle that glorifi es God so God gave them clear instructions. In a way, Leviticus is actually exciting because God is lovingly spoon-feeding his people out of their spiritual infancy into mature followers. Th e passage above may seem like overkill, but here, God is reminding the Israelites how to worship him with a thankful heart. And what does God expect? Cook a meal and eat it with friends! God shares with us our off ering of gratitude; our live of gratitude. When we live in appreciation of God, we live as God designed.

Prayer: God thank you for all you’ve done, all you’re doing, and all you will do. Th ank you for loving us so much that you designed a wonderful life for each of us and you help us enjoy it. Amen.

--Rev. Kevin Barnes, Associate Pastor

Thursday, February 21From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48 (NIV)

Halloween barely over, the pleas for Christmas giving bombarded me. Angel trees popped up all over town. Shoeboxes, stockings, and donation plates for the needy begged to be fi lled. Th e requests for canned goods were insatiable. Resentment set in.“I have my own bills to pay. I cannot give so much because I have to take care of my own needs. Besides, I have seen my assistance go to those who drive better vehicles than I, who have manicures I cannot aff ord, who sit at home while I work all day. Th ey do not deserve my hard-earned cash.”And God spoke to me: Was I born into a Christian family through my own power? Did I create the people who taught me a strong work ethic? Did I design my own brain and intellect? Were my life opportunities orchestrated by me? Have I saved myself from the fatal consequences of stupid decisions? What have I done to deserve such grace and mercy?

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your many blessings. I have what I have, I am who I am all because of you. I do not deserve your great mercy and grace, but you have showered me with them. May I never withhold grace and mercy from your children. Amen.

--Lisa Webb

Friday, February 22She thought, if I only touch his robe I’ll be healed. When Jesus turned and saw her, he said, “Be encourage, daughter. Your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed from that time on. Matthew 9:21-22

Coincidence??I found myself in the Labor and Deliver room of “Grace” Hospital. It was the night of my graduation from medical school, when the celebration was rudely interrupted by the birth of our fi rst child. Th e pregnancy had been diffi cult and now the delivery was in jeopardy. Aft er hours of labor, the baby developed D cells. I had just fi nished four years of medical studies, and in our naïve confi dence we thought we “knew it all.” I had grown up in the church but drift ed away during my high school and college years. Th e doctors and nurses tried everything, but his D cells did not improve. I suddenly realized that in spite of all our knowledge, there were some things beyond human control. It was in the wee hours of a long night that I found myself not calling out to the Doctors or to my teachers, but on my knees praying in the Chapel on the Labor Floor, for God’s intervention in my son’s birth. It was then that I learned the last and most important lesson in my medical school training…Faith begins where knowledge ends. My fi nal lesson was not in the grand halls of higher education, but in a two pew room that was the hospital Chapel. Brody was born with the cord around his neck and with God’s guidance the doctors successfully delivered and resuscitated him. His birth came in the wee hours of Mother’s Day.Coincidence??Today we always celebrate the joy of Mother’s Day, blessings of our son, the completion of my medical education, and the restoration of my faith, in the power that is greater than ourselves. God, Father, Abba now has a whole new meaning to me. On this day, bless all Mothers and praise to our Father.

Prayer: We thank you for your healing power and your guidance. We praise your holy name. Amen.

--Dr. Bruce Reid

Saturday, February 23Praise the LORD.Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens.Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. (Psalm 150:1-2, 6)

Th e choir, dressed in tuxedos and black dresses, sings its fi nal phrase, and the sound reverberates aft er the release. Th ere is a moment of fulfi lled silence as performers and audience refl ect on the beauty. And then it happens: applause! Invigorated and enthusiastic, the audience rises to their feet. A standing ovation.When my wife Erin teaches Music Appreciation to her Gordon College students she spends time explaining proper concert etiquette. Applause, she tells them, is the audience saying “thank you” to the performers. As a concert performer, I appreciate applause and the occasional standing ovation.Psalm 150 is sometimes called the “Musician’s Psalm.” Th e psalmist is overwhelmed with the desire to praise God and begins a fl urrying list of all the instruments of the day. Finally to exhaust the list and make a fi nal point, he exclaims that everything that breathes should praise the Lord. I’ve oft en considered Psalm 150 to be like a standing ovation for our ever-gracious God. Let everything that has breath stand up, clap their hands, and show thanks for what the Lord has done!

PrayerPraise and thanksgiving let everyone bringUnto our Father for every good thing.All together joyfully sing! (Edith Lovell Th omas’ Th e Whole World Singing, 1950)

--Dr. Stephen J. Mulder,Director of Music and Worship Arts Ministries at Griffi n First UMC, Artistic Director of Griffi n Choral Arts

Sunday, February 24Th e Lord your God is in your midst – a warrior bringing victory. He will create calm with his love; he will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

When I was a little girl, I loved to hear my mother hum as she went about her chores. It was a soothing sound to me and one I heard oft en. As an adult, I fi nd myself humming as I go through those days when I am very content – very happy. I love the scripture from Zephaniah where God creates calm with His love and God rejoices over His people (you and me) with singing. I am fi lled with

gratitude when the peace which passes all human understanding covers me. I know it is God’s love which gives me that calm, that peace.And yet calm is not all! What a comforting thought – we make God happy enough to sing! God rejoices over you with singing! All out singing – not just humming!When is the last time you found yourself humming? Go into this day with gratitude and thanksgiving. Let God calm you with His love and rejoice over you with singing! And sing back! Sing praises to God for all He has given you this day…Rejoice for all God has given you and thank Him for it!

Prayer: Dear God, Th ank you for loving us! Help me enter this day with joy in my heart and a song on my lips. Amen.

--Debby Stikes, Director of Discipleship

Monday, February 25Trust in the Lord with your whole heart. Acknowledge Him in all your ways and He will make straight your path. Proverbs 3:5-6

Two years ago, a friend of mine had a massive heart attack. Even though he was shocked back to life, twice, and now has a pacemaker, he lived. I have had other friends who did not survive such a heart attack. Godly, Christian people are not rescued from death, daily. I don’t know why God allowed my friend’s blockage to be held at bay until he got to the emergency room. I don’t know why God allowed my friend to be revived two times. I don’t know why God kept him safe in fl ight and allowed successful surgeries. I don’t know why other friends were simply taken to their heavenly homes immediately. But, I do thank God for this saved life. Obvious interventions of heavenly proportions worked together in timing and healthcare. Th is time, prayers were answered as requested.We question God when our prayers are not answered in the manner we request. We all ponder questions for which there are not answers. It seems our most common question is simply, “Why?”When there are no answers for unanswered prayers, Proverbs advises us to simply trust. Trust Him. Trust Him in all circumstances. Trust Him in crisis and in contentment, in health and sickness, in joy and grief, in life and death. One way to exemplify trust is in gratefulness even when it seems there is nothing for which to be grateful. Even when our prayers are answered, “no” or our lives are turned upside down in an instance. Even when we cannot thank God for our circumstances, we can always thank Jesus for laying down his life for us. I stand in awe that God humbled himself unto death. If we foreknew the lives and destinies we were called to go through, and had the option to avoid our trails, would we be obedient unto death? Jesus foreknew of his horrid torture and

death and could have called upon the angels to prevent it. He was obedient unto death so that we might have eternal life and a spirit-fi lled overcoming life on earth.We all have damaged spiritual hearts. Hearts hardened with hurts and disappointments. One therapy for hardened hearts is a grateful spirit. God inhabits our praise and our praise never returns void. In praising Him, our own spirits are lift ed, our load lightened. Why carry unnecessary burdens? Trust in the Lord with your whole heart. Be grateful for what you have and have experienced, trusting Him to use our lives for His purposes. Praise Him, for He is worthy of our praise, and we, the works of His hands were made for that purpose. Praise Him with a grateful heart! Prayer: Dear God, help us this day trust you with a grateful spirit. Amen.

--Gwen Langford

Tuesday, February 26Psalm 100:4- “ Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name”

In his fi rst letter to the Th essalonians Paul instructed his readers to “give thanks in all circumstances” (Th ess. 5:18) Th e unbeliever is not inclined to give thanks. He may welcome circumstances that are in accord with his wishes and complain about those that are not, but it never occurs to him in either case to give thanks.God does not just respond to an adversity in our lives to make the best of a bad situation. He knows before He initiates or permits the adversity how He will use it for our good.As God’s children we are to give thanks in all circumstances, both the good and the bad. I am thankful to God, the Father that He loved me so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to die for my sins!Th is old world may be falling apart, but ultimately this is not our home.”Th erefore since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28, NIV).

PRAYER- Almighty God, we praise and thank you for showing us your love, mercy and grace. Remind us to be thankful each day as we reach out to others in Your name. Th anks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!!

--Rosalyn Gilreath

Wednesday, February 27Th e Lord isn’t slow to keep his promise, as some think of slowness, but he is patient toward you, not wanting anyone to perish but all to change their hearts and lives. - 2 Peter 3:9, Common English Bible

As a teacher and volunteer youth worker, I spend a lot of my time with teenagers. It is so much fun to get to spend time hanging out with kids who are refreshingly honest, always eager to try new things, and generally full of care-free happiness. One of the hardest things, however, is walking beside these kids, showing and telling them about the amazing life found in Jesus, and seeing some of them ignore that great exchange of Christ’s blood for our sins. It’s heartbreaking to witness these friends of mine struggle through sin and loss and pain and hurt. What’s harder, though, is to know that many of them understand that life with Jesus off ers fulfi llment in a way that drinking and drugs, sports and grades, busyness and such can never replicate. Just days ago I was talking with a high schooler who told me “I know in my heart that Jesus created me and loves me, and I know what He wants me to do, but I just don’t want to follow Him right now.” As you can imagine, I just wanted to shake him until he realizes how incredibly dumb that is - the Creator of the Universe wants to know him and have a relationship with him - and he just doesn’t want to right now?What really gets to me, though, is that I understand where he is coming from. I was in that place for too long, letting my arrogance control my life. When I heard him, I heard my old self telling Jesus – yes, but not now. What’s amazing, and what I’m incredibly thankful for, is Jesus’ amazing grace in staying with us when we are rebellious and loving us in spite of ourselves. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for your patience and your incredible love. You give us chance aft er chance to be made new – so many more chances than we deserve. Let us remember your grace and sacrifi ce and live our lives accordingly. Amen.

--Bill Stikes

Thursday, February 28Th e moon and star to rule by night: for his mercy and love endureth for ever. Psa 136:9

I was rushing down a road to an early morning meeting. Th e lush forest that had lined the road was gone! I stopped at a red light that had not been there months earlier and was amazed at the massive shopping center that had replaced the forest. Restaurants, grocery stores, fi lling stations, shops of every kind lined up. Across the street there had sprung up a subdivision with a hundred large houses where there had just recently been a cow pasture.

For a brief moment I paused and through the sun-roof of my car I looked at the stars in the early morning sky. Th ere were all the stars just as they had been when I was a child, not one out of place. I quickly searched and found old friends, constellations, that I had not seen in years. Each star appeared just as it did when my grandfather pointed them out to me. I was amazed at how time changes my world, but God’s world does not really change. He is constant. Like the hundreds of constellations in the morning sky, He, His love, His grace are there even when I am too busy to take notice. He is there when the lights of my world blind my soul to his presents. He was, is and will always be there FOREVER.Forever is a long time.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your consistent love and grace. Amen.

--Bill Powers

Friday, March 1“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” Proverbs 12:25 (RSV)

It had been over two decades since I had shared a church life with an older couple in middle Georgia. Th ey were like a second set of parents to me and would oft en invite me out to lunch aft er church. It was such a special treat spending time with them! Th ey were true givers and committed Christians, living exemplary lives dedicated to God, church, family, community, and friends. Th ey were interesting conversationalists who always made me feel good about myself, motivated me to be a better person, showed me how to embrace life’s joys, and gave meaningful advice when solicited. Th ey seemed so equally delighted to share time with me, introducing me to their friends as though they were showing off their new daughter. Th is delightful couple eventually sold their home and moved into a facility that allows progression from independent living to assisted living to nursing home care within the same location. It was their fondest wish that their children would not be left with the responsibility of taking care of them in their later years and chose this lifestyle as an option. Last month I visited these special friends at that facility where the wife’s face lit up with that same sweet smile from years ago as she reminisced, “I was telling someone the other day that you always were so good to send us little thank-you notes.” Immediately I recalled how many times she had mentioned the worth of those thank-you notes through the years. It was not something I had thought twice about doing, as my mom had taught me at an early age to respond to gift s with a thank-you note. Of course, that required a little more eff ort and time than simply saying the words, “Th ank-you.” It required refl ection and comment on the specifi c contribution(s) that someone had made to my life, which typically

fi lled my heart with a deeper sense of gratitude. Now, all these years later when memories were faded, both theirs and mine, what the wife remembered and again wanted to be sure I understood was how very much she treasured those thank-you notes. “Your mama sure taught you right,” she used to say aft er receiving each one. It was then I realized that their time and my appreciation had been reciprocal gift s, but only now did I understand that those gift s still existed in the form of lovely memories for us both. I thanked God that evening for the blessing of such special friends and for the parents who had taught me to take the time to adequately express gratitude.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your son and for the enlightenment that came with the resurrection. May we remember that resurrection is not just about the next life but is also about the transformation that can take place in this life when we open up our hearts to receive all that You off er us. Please help each of us to attain and maintain a grateful heart that we might share Your love with others in ways that are pleasing to You. In Christ’s Name, Amen.

--Jane Westmoreland

Saturday, March 2Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.1 Th essalonians 5:18 (NIV)

A few weeks ago my daughter took me shopping, buying me a couple of blouses. I said to her, “you didn’t need to do that.” She replied, I know I didn’t, but I wanted to.All I could do was to say “thank you”. It’s hard to conceal a thankful heart.Gratitude allows you to live free and open. It has the power to protect you from thetemptation of pride. A truly thankful heart is given the presence of God.Th e power of gratitude rests in the willingness to remain vulnerable.

Prayer: Th ank you, God, for your protection and love. Th ank you for our family and friends, those who show kindness to us each day. Help us share your love with kindness to the world around us. Amen.

--Aileen Shield

Sunday, March 3Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. New Living Translation (©2007)

You can make yourselves crazy by worrying about things! Sometimes we even invent things to worry about. Several years ago I made a realization. I was blessed. I mean really blessed! I had the greatest job in the world. (I am sure not everyone would think that but I was doing just what I always wanted to do), I had a wonderful wife who loved me and made me laugh and understood my craziness. I had three amazing talented, loving, kind and employable children. I have no family struggles with extended family and we are all healthy. I am not rich but I have enough to do anything I want to do and do not have to worry about that. I was amazingly happy. A preacher friend said once when I walked into a meeting – “here comes the happiest guy I know” So naturally I began to worry….this surely can not last. Something has to happen to bring an end to my good fortune. I started looking for things to go wrong. I started thinking every little passing pain was the beginning of a deadly illness. Everytime I stood up too fast and got dizzy it must be the start of a stroke. If Peggy were late coming home –all kinds of horrible thoughts passed through my mind. I began to fret and worry. Th en I come across this verse in an old bible. I had underlined it as my favorite verse. It reminded me of the way to live. Don’t worry Kevin, just tell God what you need and spend your time thanking Him for what He has given you. I don’t worry so much anymore. I simply accept my blessings and turn my problems over to God and give Him thanks for the wonderful life He has given me.

Prayer – Th ank you God for your blessings. I know I do not deserve to be so blessed but I am. I turn over my problems and fears into your hands and your keeping. Help me to live this day in faith not fear and help me to remember to thank you for each and every day for all you have done, are doing and will do for me. AMEN

--Rev. Kevin Lobello, Senior Minister

Monday, March 4Th is is the day the Lord acted; we will rejoice and celebrate in it! Psalm 118:24 (CEB)You were called to this kind of endurance, because Christ suff ered on your behalf. He left you an example so that you might follow in his footsteps. 1 Peter 2:21 (CEB)

Th e day began, as most days do now that I am retired, by sitting at the breakfast bar with a cup of coff ee in hand, my prayer list and devotional books beside me. Th e weather had been overcast for a week and the morning continued the pattern of dreariness. I began to talk with God about the people on my prayer list one at a time. Each one so very special and facing fears for themselves or loved ones. As each person’s needs were raised in prayer, I began to feel so helpless. How could I ever help lighten their burdens?Th en I began reading the daily devotional from Sarah Young’s book Jesus Calling:

Enjoying Peace in His Presence. Th e fi rst sentence jumped out at me and I began to laugh. “Try to view each day as an adventure, carefully planned out by your Guide instead of staring into the day that is ahead of you, attempting to program it according to your will.” Well, she had me there didn’t she!Th en she added that, “A life lived close to God will never be dull or predictable. Each day will contain surprises. Be willing to follow wherever He leads. No matter how steep or treacherous the path before you, the safest place to be is by His side.”

Prayer: Ok God, thanks for the reminder that You are in control. Th ese loved ones are under Your care and surrounded with your love. I cannot wait to see what you have in store for all of us today! In Jesus name we pray. Amen

--Louisa Melton

Tuesday, March 5“See, I am doing a new thing. Do you not perceive it? It will make a way thru the wasteland and spring up in the desert.” Is 43:19

How oft en does God put a Bible verse in your way and we do not acknowledge it or stop to think He might mean what we think He might mean? Sound familiar? I was fi nishing my masters degree and wondered what my future was to be. I had been at the Elk’s for 7 years and I was pretty sure that it was going to be time to move on. I wasn’t sure I wanted to make that decision, but I had been very excited about my academic studies and I was eager to put some of that knowledge to use! So what to do…..I am an avid Guideposts reader. Daily Guideposts starts my morning and this particular morning in mid-February, I read, “See, I am doing a new thing. Do you not perceive it? It will make a way thru the wasteland and spring up in the desert.” Th ose words stopped me. A new thing? God is doing it? Do I see it?I did my degree study online with Regent University and everyday on the home page there is the Bible verse for the day. One day around the fi rst of March, I logged on, checked for messages and in the middle of the home page in bold letters I read, “See I am doing a new thing. Do you not perceive it? It will make a way thru the wasteland and spring up in the desert.” Oh my… this time I had a shiver go up and down my spine. I again wondered what new thing. I turned in my last paper for one of my classes. It had been a tough one and I was glad to have it done. I had also given notice at the Elk’s Lodge, again wondering if I was doing the right thing and second guessing my decision. Th e next day, the professor returned my paper with a grade and all its ‘constructive criticism’. At the end of his email I read, “See I am doing a new thing, do you not perceive it? It will make a way thru the wasteland and spring up in the desert.” Th is time I sat back and laughed. I felt relief with the persistent message that God is working

a new thing in me. In His time, I would see His new thing and I would perceive it.

Father in Heaven, Th ank you for your persistent messages. Th ank you that you do not give up on us and that you are always doing a new thing in our lives. Amen.

--Trudy Gill

Wednesday, March 6 “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

Early Christmas Eve morning, before dawn, I woke up with my mind and heart racing. Th e night before, Dave and I had had a major diff erence of opinion. I had been stressed due to the usual preparations for Christmas, plus two college graduations—my nephew Casey from FSU December 14 and my daughter Taylor from Clemson December 20. I was fi nally ready to relax and enjoy Christmas, but I was very troubled by this diff erence of opinion. Dave and I tried talking, but he fi nally turned over and went back to sleep when he was convinced that we were not going to agree on a solution. I was even more keyed up now, so I decided to go to the walking track. As I was pounding the track, mind racing and heart racing even more, a voice said to me, “Be quiet, be still, and know that I am God.” It was so loud and clear it was al-most audible. It startled me so much that I slowed down, and this time I heard it again in a soft er voice. “Be quiet, be still, and know that I am God.” I continued walking, repeating that verse over and over until rain came. When I got home, it was still dark, so I returned to bed, this time repeating the verse until I went to sleep. Aft er my repeating that verse off and on during the day, then attending the Christmas Eve service that evening, Dave and I were fi nally on the same page again. Christmas day came. As we were opening our gift s, Taylor, said, “Your turn, Mom. Open this one.” As I was opening her gift , I realized it was a canvas she had painted. On it was the verse, “Be still, and know that I am God.” I was speechless! I immediately knew that this was a God Moment! As we continued opening gift s, my mind was focused on that canvas and the verse. Every day since then, I am reminded that I need to be still and be quiet and know that God is Who He says He is.

Dear God, I thank you and praise you for giving us God Moments. Continue to teach me to stop and listen to Your voice. Help me to see You when trials come and to trust Your heart when circumstances discourage me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

--Sarah Magusiak

Thursday, March 7“Trust in the Lord with your whole heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6

All my life, I’ve heard that Scripture. I was raised in the church, and this verse in Proverbs was oft en the topic of Sunday school lessons, church sermons, and Bible studies. I knew it well, but it didn’t become my lifeline until July 2011.With no warning, my life was turned upside down when my husband, age 52, had a sudden and massive heart attack. For days, I spent my time outside his ICU room, numb and scared, praying that God would spare him. When aft er 4 days he was moved to a regular room, it seemed that God had answered my prayer. He continued healing my husband’s heart as we neared day 9 of his hospitalization, the day the surgeons were to implant a pacemaker/defi brillator. Within a few hours aft er the surgery, however, it was determined that he had somehow suff ered a hole in his heart during surgery and was rushed back to ICU. My hope sank to its lowest level, and that is when this verse in Proverbs became my lifeline.My dear friend brought me a simple index card upon which she had jotted down a few Bible verses…verses all mentioning heart. Th at card became my most treasured possession! I read and read those verses, letting them soak into my thoughts and prayers. “Trust in the Lord with your whole heart….” As I read this, I would envision God holding Jim’s heart in His hands, inviting me to trust Him completely. As the days passed and the hole in his heart began to heal, I felt I was learning to trust Him with my whole heart. An overwhelming sense of thankfulness and gratitude washed over me as my heart was so full! Aft er 16 days in the hospital, we came home with both our hearts overfl owing with gratitude not only for the many miracles we had experienced, but for the doctors, the emergency technicians, our family and friends…so many blessings! None of us know how many days we have on this earth, but by trusting in the Lord with our whole hearts and believing in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we know we have eternity with Him in heaven.Prayer: Dear Father,Th ank You for being an awesome God Who holds my hand and never leaves my side. I strive to trust You with my whole heart and I stand on the promise that You will direct my path. Amen.

--Janet Smith

Friday, March 8“...I kneel before the Father...I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be

fi lled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19

When my daughter moved to Augusta to attend college, I left her with a small book of prayer and devotion. Inside the cover I wrote Paul’s prayer to the Ephesians. Th is was the most powerful prayer I could say for her; an awesome expression of love--a prayer off ered up to God that Christ would dwell in her heart; that she would be strengthened by the Holy Spirit; that she would be able to grasp how wide and long, high and deep is the love of God for her; that she would be fi lled the full measure of God, and that God’s power would be at work within her. Amen--Amen--Amen. Prayer: Dear God, Help us to live our lives fi lled to the full measure with your spirit, assured of your love and in awe of your power at work within us. To you be the glory. Amen.

--Margaret Andrews

Saturday, March 9A friend loves at all times… Proverbs 17:17

Notice the word ALL in the verse. It means that a true friend is with you in every circumstance of life. Th ose circumstances may be good, bad, scary, exciting or joyful. A good friend is a precious gift A friend gives you the gift of their presence. Th is gift of presence needs no words to communicate. A friend is there to listen or simply give you a hug.A friend gives the gift of acceptance. Th ey love you no matter the circumstance. Th ey stand beside you, behind you, and lead you if necessary.A friend gives you the gift of encouragement. Th ey shine the light of hope, share in the glow of accomplishment, and shy away from condemnation when you’ve failed to do the right thing.If our earthly friends relate to us in this way, imagine how much our friend, Jesus wants us to recognize His presence in our life. He is with us in all circumstances. He is at the wedding altar, in the hospital room, or in the workplace. He accepts us with all our strengths and weaknesses. And he loves us so much he gave himself for us so we might have an eternal friendship with Him.Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for being the ultimate friend. Th ank you for earthly friends. Help us to be a friend to all in all circumstances. Amen.

--Joann Powers

Sunday, March 10And you shall rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house.Deuteronomy 26:11a

I am thankful at Th anksgiving and other times for everybody and everything like……

GOD Family FRIENDS

SCHOOL Jesus

*animals* HOUSE

Food

Prayer:Jesus, O Jesus, holy is your name. You love us so much.We’re thankful for you.We’re glad you saved us.Bless our family, bless this food.Bless all people in the world.Jesus, O Jesus, holy is your name.

--Will Mulder, 3rd Grade (devotional) and Grace Mulder, Kindergarten (prayer)

Monday, March 11God gave his grace to me, the least of all God’s people, to preach the good news about the immeasurable riches of Christ to the Gentiles. God sent me to reveal the secret plan that had been hidden since the beginning of time by God, who created everything. God’s purpose is now to show the rulers and power in the heavens the many diff erent varieties of his wisdom through the church. Th is was consistent with the plan he had from the beginning of time that the accomplished through Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 3:8-11

What makes you happy? A cup of Starbucks coff ee, a date night, everyone home for Sunday lunch, a beach vacation?.... Everyone wants to be happy. We put a lot of time and eff ort and money into the pursuit of happiness. Nothing is really wrong with these things at all. But if our happiness depends on our circumstances, what happens when the cup is empty, the night ends, everyone goes their separate ways and vacation is over?In contrast to happiness stands joy. Running deeper and stronger, joy is the quiet, confi dent assurance of God’s love and work in our life…that He will be there no matter what! In Philippians 3:8-10 Paul tells us that he found real joy as he focused all of his attention and energy on knowing Christ. During this Lenten season may we share Paul’s desire and seek to know Jesus Christ more and more. As we do, may we experience that same real joy. Happiness depends on happenings, but joy depends on Jesus!

Prayer: Th ank you for being the source of our joy. Help us to share your love as we go through this day. Amen.

--Hal Peeler

Tuesday, March 12And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (NIV)

As I look at my calendar for the next three weeks, I thank God. Fift een meetings stare back at me with “paperwork” written all over their faces. Sixty-two students call out for individualized lessons, materials, and data, never mind that a maximum caseload should be 55. Seven administrators, 13 assistants, and 42 teachers from two schools in pre-k through eighth grade require prompt, professional, and courteous communication that refl ects competence and fl exibility with a smile. I love it!In my previous job, I watched the clock tick the seconds and hours away. I swept the cobwebs from my offi ce. I organized and reorganized the fi les for my 30 students. Burn out from pure boredom plagued me. My years of training and desire to help students seemed wasted. I cried on Sunday nights knowing I had to go to work the next morning.

Prayer: Th ank you, God, for showing me what it is like to not be busy at my work. Th ank you for putting me in a place where I can work hard and use the training and desires you have given me. Th ough I may grumble from time to time about my workload, thank you for making me truly grateful in my heart for a job that requires much. Amen.

--Lisa Webb

Wednesday, March 132 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance fi nish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1: 2-4 (NIV)

“What? Be thankful for trials, troubles and tribulation? Th at’s crazy talk!” Th at’s what I used to think. It just doesn’t make any sense to be thankful for things that are diffi cult, hurtful or cause stress. As I’ve matured, and as I’ve endured some hard, hurtful and stressful things, I’ve come to appreciate this scripture. I’ve decided that James isn’t as crazy as I thought. I’ve come to appreciate that hard things can make me stronger, that lean times cause a greater appreciation of better times, and that perseverance strengthens my faith. I could even argue that they’ve made me wiser.Looking at the big picture, the things I’ve been through don’t compare in intensity to the suff ering many others have endured. Th ey were, however, big deals to me at the time. Our personal struggles always are. But recent events have brought this verse from James to mind several times in recent weeks and given me some perspective. My issues aren’t as big as they felt when I was dealing with them. Senseless killing, political discord, moral arguments – they don’t only make us fearful that good old fashioned “biblical principles” are becoming passé. Th ey are also harsh, in your face reminders that there are trials of many kinds for everyone, everyday. So, what do these rambling thoughts have to do with the Lenten season? First, while we all fi nd it hard to consider our trials “pure joy”, we usually can fi nd some good in them. I’ve been blessed by becoming stronger in faith because of them. I believe that Lent is an excellent time to be reminded of the gratitude that we owe God for letting us fi nd our way through struggles, for His seeing us through to the other side, and for the lessons He provides with them.Second, seeing and knowing the suff ering that exists in the world should remind us to be thankful that most of us have a relatively easy existence. Let us remember to pray that the trials and hurting we observe in the world will ultimately be of value in the big picture.Finally, while we usually think of Lent as a time to give up something we enjoy, I’ve decided to do something harder. I’m going to give up worry, to the best of my ability, and consider the diffi cult days “joyful”. I pray you will, too.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Help us to be thankful for the things we enjoy, but also for the things we have suff ered that make us appreciate them. Let us remember to pray for those who are suff ering now, and to witness to them, whenever possible, how we have found greater faith through our trials. Amen.

--Jerry Daniel

Thursday, March 14I Th essalonians 5:16 – 18: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Many years ago, when we learned we were to have our fi rst child I began what became daily routine. I begin and end every day with prayer, rejoicing that I have that day, naming each child and now also their spouses and my “grands”, and giving thanks not only for them but for others and in all circumstances. Honestly there have been days and some weeks when giving thanks has been a very real challenge; when it was diffi cult to fi nd ANYthing for which to be thankful. Th en the middle school teacher “in me” is reminded of the aptly titled book Hello God? Are you there? It’s . . . [me]. Boy do we have MUCH to talk about some days! And we do, as I remember Corrie ten Boom’s counsel to “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”

My prayer comes from the German* mystic Th omas a Kempis who reminds us to “Be thankful for the smallest blessing, and you will receive greater”.

--Elaine Bolton*Did you know that the word “Lent” comes from the German word “lenz” meaning spring or springtide?

Friday, March 15Th is is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24

Th e days that the good Lord makes are not all the same. Sometimes the weather seems almost perfect and beauty abounds. Th ose days oft en start with a glorious sunrise and are completed with a stunning sunset that leaves us with no doubt that the Lord is with us and we have plenty of reason to rejoice and be glad in it. Other days however are dismal and stormy and it is much more diffi cult to see the beauty and the goodness of that day and to determine the Lord’s presence. Similar to those stormy days we have some in our lives that are not always easy to rejoice and be glad in them. Sometimes we are confronted with problems and diffi culties or even the normal hustle and bustle of life that oft en distracts us from the joys and gladness of the day. However it is important to remember that each and every day is a gift from the Lord. He has graciously provided us with another day to experience what he has in store for us and if we do our best to live that day in accordance with his will for our lives, we can rejoice and be glad in it.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you so very much for this day you have provided. Please help us to do our best to fulfi ll your will for our life throughout this day so that no matter what kind of day it may be that at the end of it we can rejoice and be glad in it. Amen.

--Th e Ballard Family

Saturday, March 16Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15

Many times at dinner following our blessing one of our children will say, “Let’s do goods and bads.” Each of us will say one good thing that happened that day and one bad thing that happened. Some days it may be easier to come up with a “bad” thing that happened than a good. We need to make a point of remembering the positive things in our lives. Th is is also a good way to spend time with God. Take time each day to refl ect on your “Goods & Bads” in prayer. Th e positive things in our life may become so common place that we take them for granted. We need to slow down our lives and realize the blessings we have around us, and turn our worries and problems over to God. God’s plan is for us to be at peace. Turn our worries over to him and focus on the good things of the day.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we come to you today giving you thanks for our lives and the blessings you have given us. Please accept our worries and troubles as we give them to you. Allow us to feel your peace and guidance as we move forward in the life you have prepared for us. Amen

--Kelly and Jennifer Smith

Sunday, March 1716 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

Th is is arguably the most well known verse in America. I am not good at memorization, but this is one of the few verses I can quote and site. I’ve known it for as long as I can remember and much longer than I’ve been active in church. Its meaning seems evident. Recently though, its meaning has deepened greatly for me. Almost 20 months ago I gave birth to my fi rst child, a daughter. She has changed my life and my world! I’m now pregnant with our second child, another little girl. I know from experience now that I can’t even imagine how this sweet child will change my life too! I’ve been struggling lately to make sense of all the emotions of motherhood. One has become clearer than all the others. I have the deepest sense of gratitude. I’m so thankful that God has given my husband I this precious child to love and care for. I’m thankful for the way she brings light to

my every day, for her hugs and kisses, for her smile and for so much more! Recently while taking advantage of a quiet moment snuggling with my daughter while I could feel my second daughter squirming in the womb, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. In that moment, I shared my thankfulness with God. In my usual candid way of talking to God, I wondered if He could relate to these overwhelming feelings of love and gratitude. He reminded me that not only is that how he feels about each of us, but that he gave his one and only Son so that each of us could have eternal life. God’s love for us is so much greater than we can even comprehend. He sent his only Son, Jesus, to walk on the earth with us, to teach us and to share God’s love. Jesus was crucifi ed on the cross for our sins, because God wants to love us eternally.As I’ve pondered God’s love for each of us from this new perspective as a mother, I feel that I’m only slightly closer to understanding His love. Although this slight peek into the depths of His love has deepened my thankfulness for my own salvation and for His love. Our earthly relationships are something to be thankful for. Th ose relationships that are Godly and biblical give us an imperfect glimpse of God’s love for us. Oh how perfect and immeasurable is His love for us! Th at is defi nitely something to be grateful for! Have you thanked God lately? Who in your life models God’s love? Do they know how grateful you are for their relationship?

Prayer: Th ank you, God, for my salvation and your perfect love. Amen.

--Julie Stikes

Monday, March 18“Consider it pure joy, brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”-James 1:2-3

I happened to come across this verse when I was really struggling with some bad situations in my life. I was letting my own desires control my actions instead of God’s desires. I learned that James wrote this to the Christians who were who were being persecuted and driven out of their homes, simply because they were followers of Christ. Th at gave me a whole new perspective. If they were called to consider such a thing pure joy, then I could defi nitely consider what I was going through pure joy. My problems didn’t seem so big anymore. Problems, no matter how big or small, are a part of life. But that’s the beautiful thing about walking with Jesus; you walk above your circumstances. No matter what happens in this crazy roller coaster of life, one thing remains the same: Jesus. While it’s easy to

have a grateful attitude in the good times, we’re called to have a grateful attitude all the time. Even if you’re scared, confused, worried.. consider it pure joy. Because when you do, God gives you a new perspective, and you can see your struggles through His eyes. God has a purpose and His purpose stands.

Prayer: God, Give me the wisdom to praise you in the good and the bad. Th ank you for the struggles, the hardships, and the tears. Give me perspective so I can see my circumstances through Your eyes. Th ank you that in my ever-changing life, You remain the same. Deepen my love and gratefulness for You. Amen

--Garrett Mixon, 11th Grade

Tuesday, March 19Be still, and know that I am God… Proverbs 46:10

In the whirlwind of our everyday lives, we lose sight of the eternal. We hurry from home and fume in delayed traffi c. We get caught up in the stress of work. We rush from one appointment to the next checking off our list. We collapse at the end of the day exhausted and tired. Our calendars are full but our lives feel empty. What’ s wrong?Listen to a portion from “Be Still”, an anthem by Herb Fromback with music by Mary McDonald.Be still and know that I am God.Be still and know that I am with you.Be still and know that I will comfort youWhen you come to Me in your hour of need.Be still and know that I am God.Be still and know that I am here for you;And I will wipe away your tears; You will be renewed.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I’m still…..

--Joann Powers

Wednesday, March 20

Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make his deeds known to all people! Sing to God, sing praises to him; dwell on all his wondrous works! Give praise to God’s holy name! Let the hearts rejoice of all those seeking the Lord! Pursue the Lord and his strength; seek his face always… verses 8-11 from 1 Chronicles 16:8-36

Th ankfulness is not a new or a New Testament phenomenon. As Christians, we are to be thankful constantly. Th ere are four separate acts of thanksgiving. Th e fi rst is to remember: remember “the wonders he has done, his miracles.. his covenant…”(v. 12 and 15). Th e second act is to share this with others: “proclaim his salvation…declare his glory” (v. 23-24). Th e third act of thanksgiving is to bring an off ering and worship him: “Bring an off ering and come before him; worship the Lord…” (v. 29). Th e fourth act of thanksgiving is to perform acts of service to others so that they can see the wonders of God in you. “Pay it forward” and “random acts of kindness” are not just politically correct actions, they are actions that show others that we are God’s children and that we are so thankful for all that he has done for us.

--Carol Berry

Thursday, March 21Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you. Isaiah 41:10

As we go through our journey of life, we experience mountain top joys and blessings but we also have deep valleys of pain and suff ering. God promised to always hold our hands no matter how heavy our cross is to bear; he will take care of us and walk with us out of despair and sorrow. We just have to let him hold our hands and hearts. Our God is merciful and mighty, his grace is glorious and he listens to our prayers as we lift them up. “Pray for one another…Th e prayer of the righteous is powerful and eff ective.” (James 5:16)

Prayer: We thank you God, for walking with us to the mountain tops and to the deepest valley. Help us to be reminded of your love as we go through this day and every day. Amen.

--Reba T. Johnson

Friday, March 22If my people…humble themselves and PRAY and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and HEAL their land. *2 Chronicles 7:14

Recently I spent some time in the hospital with viral double pneumonia. I noticed that I was having a hard time breathing and soon could not get my breath at all. Aliene called 911. Th at is the last thing I remember until waking

up and wondering where I was. One of those wonderful nurses they have at Spalding Regional Hospital was in the room and she told me I was in ICU and had been there for maybe four days. I couldn’t believe it. Other than being weak and groggy, I did not feel bad. She informed me that I had had a rough time of it. Seems like my chance of survival had looked pretty slim for a while. My friend, Dr. Tom Grayson, visited me several times while I was “out of it” and told me later, “When I saw you, I wouldn’t have given you a plug nickel’s chance to come back from that.”Aliene brought me stacks of cards from people, clubs, and church groups, some I didn’t even know, wishing me well. Most of them always included that they were praying for me. I was included on the prayer list of churches other than my own. My daughter told me that there were many comments on Facebook from people who said they were praying for me. Again, many of them I did not know. My family said they would run into people in stores who asked about me and told them to tell me they were praying for me.I have always tried to keep myself physically fi t. Dr. Remington told me that I had been very sick and being in fairly good physical shape is probably the reason I was able to get through it.I’m not so sure about that. I think it was all the prayers that went up for me. I could feel those prayers. And that brings me to the point of this testimony. If God would do this for me, imagine what God could do for the United States of America if millions of Americans went to him in prayer each and every day asking HIM to forgive us of our sins, have mercy on us, and heal our nation. Lord knows, our county is in one heck of a mess and the scripture sure does seem to fi t our current situation. America certainly needs a lot of healing and I think HE would do it if enough of us sincerely went to him in prayer. We need help and it is it the kind that only God can provide.America’s most famous patriotic song, God Bless America, began as a prayer. Our prayers could begin with “God, please bless America, again,” and go from there.What do you think? Let’s get this country back on the right track. Let’s pray about it!

--Allan Imes*Capital letters for pray and heal in the scripture were added.

Saturday, March 23“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I Th essalonians 5 : 16-18 (NIV)

Th ankfulness brings me closer to God and enables me to communicate with Him. Th anking God throughout my day -- like in the hallway on the way to class

-- is the way I stay in contact and prayer with him all the time.I have even learned to thank Him for my trials and tribulations, even though it is hard sometimes to thank Him for the harder times. He fi lls me to overfl owing with joy and peace. He gives me so many blessings in return.Th anking God for the small things in my life and throughout the day has brought joy to my life.By thanking God in all my circumstances, I am rejoicing in Him. Lord, I pray that I may be fi lled with a grateful heart. Even though it may be hard, Lord help me to thank you in all circumstances, not just the easy ones. I pray that thankfulness may be everpresent within my heart. Lord, I pray that I may draw nearer to you through giving thanks. Amen.

--Jessica Howell, 11th Grade

Sunday, March 24

Palm SundayA very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. Th e crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest!” When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” Th e crowds answered, “Th is is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.” Matthew 21: 8-11

Last summer the senior high students in the youth ministry went to Puerto Rico for their summer mission trip. Aft er months of advertising, fundraising, organizing, phone calling, meeting, scheduling and rescheduling the departure date arrived. Th e group of teens and adults gathered early one Sunday morning in the church parking lot and traveled to Hartsfi eld-Jackson International Airport. With our mission t’s donned and luggage in tow we checked our bags, received our boarding passes, cleared security, and navigated the endless thoroughfares until we found our gate. I like to arrive to the gates way ahead of time and that morning the group made it ten minutes ahead of schedule. We arrived so early in the morning the breakfast kiosks hadn’t yet opened for business.Aft er making our seats as comfortable as possible as waiting quietly in our thoughts we heard rumor that a Starbucks had opened. It was a three-or-four-minute walk from our gate so some sat with our carry-ons while the rest made the walk. Hardly any time had passed when some folks hurried back to the group holding up their cell phones showing a picture they took. As it turns out a couple guys from the tv show Duck Dynasty were also in line for coff ee and someone from our group recognized them. Soon enough the celebrities were surrounded by fans asking for autographs and pictures.

Today we take pictures and get autographs; two thousand years ago they sang praises and laid cloths and branches on the road. No matter the culture, people will always have a ways to show gratitude and appreciation to celebrities for taking the time to come near. Th rough the Holy Spirit, Jesus is always near. His love and presence envelops each of us. How do you show your appreciation to God’s divine arrival in your life?

Prayer: Holy God, thank you for entering our lives. Help us celebrate your presence by glorifying you with all we do. Amen.

--Rev. Kevin Barnes, Associate Pastor

Monday, March 25Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Th en you will experience peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:6-7

As a child, I was always under the protection of my parents. I never worried about much. Th e scariest things that ever happened were getting in trouble at school for talking or having bad dreams, but by the next day, I wasn’t worried about it anymore. As I grow up, things are diff erent. I’ve begun to see all of the bad things that happen in this world and how it’s not really as safe as I always thought. Every day, there is a new story about all of the bad things hap-pening around the world and sometimes even within our own town, but there is not nearly as much good news as there is bad. We all get bogged down worrying about all of the things in life that aren’t going the way we think they should, and forget about all of the things that we actually have. What if you woke up this morning, and you only had things you thanked God for yesterday? You most likely would not have everything that you have now. We take all of the good things in life for granted sometimes and forget what it would be like without them. We don’t need to stress over school or work because God is going to take care of that for us; he has a plan. What we do need to do though, is take the time to pray to God about our problems and ask him to help us. We need to thank God for absolutely everything we have been given, and then, we can live in peace will the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Dear God, Th ank you so much for everything you have blessed us with. Th ank you for all of these things we don’t deserve, yet we still receive. Help us to understand your word and live with you in peace. Use us, Lord, to spread your word across this Earth. We love you and thank you. Amen.

--Amelia Smith, 9th Grade

Tuesday, March 26I sing with joy because of your handiwork. How awesome are your works, Lord. Psalm 92:4b-5a

My longtime friends know that on Wednesday mornings they can fi nd me at church in a Bible study group. Many in the group have been together for years. Oft en we read a passage of scripture that we KNOW was not there the last time we read our Bibles. Truly, it must be sanctifying grace enabling the understanding of the reading each time.At the present we are restudying Disciple III, Remember Who You Are. I am using my old workbook wherein is written my thoughts on the assigned readings, notes from the video, and the weekly prayer requests. Review of those lists from the past years stirs many memories.Prayers for every conceivable circumstance of life, every peak, every valley, are recorded in those prayer lists. If is it a care of HIS OWN; it is a care of HIS. He hears each faithful believer’s earnest plea. He adores those who adore Him and who strive to honor His most fervent desire: Love me, Love others.Prayers of thanksgiving are bountiful in my book. Most of these are in regard to victory through Jesus’ grace during periods of illness or grief. Adversity is ageless and catholic and His joy, relief, and peace are also ageless. Our Bible study group records and prays about them all.

Prayer: Th anks be to God, who hears and responds in His will, His way, His time to all our concerns, needs, joys, and sorrows. Bless the Lord forever. Amen and amen.

--Liz Watkins

Wednesday, March 271 You have searched me, LORD,and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Psalm 139

Nobody knows you like your grandma. My Nanny knew me and loved me inside and out. But back in the 70s my grandmother made me the ugliest quilt ever. Th e entire quilt was made out of the kind of polyester that could bounce like a rubber ball and melt if it got too close to a match. Th e border was an unfortunate brown and the background was a classic harvest gold. Th e main feature of quilt was made up of a patchwork of giant butterfl ies, each and every one made from an awful print in that same polyester. I was disappointed in a gift that was nothing that I’d ever want to use. Well, the quilt became the butt of family jokes and was relegated to a closet. Kevin and I eventually had kids and all of a sudden I had babies and toddlers

and messes everywhere. Recalling the indestructible nature of polyester, I pulled out that quilt and started using it for fl oor covers, forts, and trips to the beach. Aft erward, I hauled it into the wash and it would still come out as ugly as it went in! Th anks, Nanny, not even three kids can destroy this old quilt. A funny thing happened though. I began to recognize those butterfl ies as the clothes my Nanny used to wear and the good times we had. I told the kids about their Nanny and how smart she was in so many ways and how she always had the answer to all my questions, even if she made them up! Nanny had given me a strong and functional gift , just like her. Once again, my simple, country grandmother, those many years later, had known what I needed even before I did! God knows us like that. Psalm 139 reminds us of a God who has searched our hearts and knows us intimately. I thank God that He is “familiar with all my ways.” He, like my Nanny, knows what I need before I even realize I need it. We can be grateful that we have a loving relationship with a God and savior who want the best for us. I thank Him every day for that kind of love and I thank God for a grandmother whose gift touched me long aft er she passed. She gave me the ugliest quilt ever but the most beautiful thing I own. Prayer: Th ank you God for knowing our thoughts and needs. Th ank you for family that gives us an earthly example of that loving relationship. Help us to be grateful for your love and share that with others. Amen.

--Peggy Lobello

Thursday, March 28

Maundy ThursdayAgain the next day aft er John stood, and two of his disciples; and looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, “Behold the Lamb of God.”—John 1:35-36.

Today is Maundy Th ursday and the choir will lead a worship service at 7:00 tonight based on the image of Christ as the “Lamb of God.” On this night, Jesus and the disciples met in the upper room to celebrate Passover together. Jesus washed their feet and gave them the “new commandment” to love one another as he had loved them (John 13:34). Th e Passover feast was a commemoration of the story from Exodus 12 where God struck down all of the fi rst-born of the Egyptians but spared the Israelite families who had placed the blood of a sacrifi cial lamb on the doorposts of their houses. Th e blood of the lamb saved them from death.In the passage from John 1 above, John the Baptist told two of his followers to “Behold!” Th e Latin word ecce used here implies wonderment, admiration or emphasis. As the choir sings various anthems about the sacrifi cial Lamb of God,

the congregation is encouraged to ponder and consider the beauty, passion, and redemption found in this imagery. How shall we respond to this ultimate sacrifi ce?

Prayer: Agnus dei qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis.Agnus dei qui sedes ad dexteram patris, miserere nobis.Agnus dei qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis.Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.Lamb of God, who sits at the right hand of the father, have mercy on us.Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.Help me to live a life of love and gratitude for this sacrifi cial gift . Amen.

--Dr. Stephen J. Mulder

Friday, March 29

Good Friday“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”~1 Th essalonians 5:18

Th e Bible tells us to give thanks in all things. To give thanks through the diffi culties that we each pass through in this lifetime is not always so easy, is it? As humankind, we are apt to experience brokenness through the loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, illness, fi nancial hardship, unemployment, divorce…the list goes on and on. No matter how diffi cult this life can be and no matter what heartache we may experience, the good news is that we can give thanks for God’s promise that He is always with us. He has given us the gift of His Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us, and the most glorious promise of all, the gift of eternal life through His Son and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is hard for a grateful heart to be without joy. If we can be intentional in giving thanks through our brokenness, I believe it will help lift us out of our despair. When we are broken the Light shines into our broken places and heals us. 1 John 1:5 tells us, “God is the Light and in Him is no darkness at all.” If we allow His Light to shine into us, His Light will heal, restore, and bring beauty out of our ashes. When God heals us, He then enables us to move on and help heal others. For the gift s of God’s Light, the comfort and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life through Christ Jesus I say, thanks be to God!

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Th ank you that Zechariah 8:13 tells us, “so will I save you and you shall be a blessing”. Th ank you for saving us from our brokenness. Please heal us and allow us to be a blessing to others.In Christ’s Name, Amen.

--Dimy Mixon

Saturday, March 30I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. Revelation 3:8 (New International Version-1984)

One beautiful late summer morning, Louisa and I got up to enjoy breakfast. We noticed that a small hummingbird had fl own inside the screen porch. Th e small bird’s wings were moving furiously as he bumped up against one screen aft er another. While a door was open to the outside world, the small bird could not fi nd his way out. We tried to shoo him out the door to no avail. We could even hear a high pitched chirp for help as the bird began to tire from his ef-forts to escape. It was not until we took down one of the screens that this smallest of God’s creatures could fi nd his way out. Relieved, he fl ew toward the beautiful North Georgia Mountains into a bounty of sweet nectar from the late summer season.Aren’t we just like this panic stricken bird? So many times we can’t see the bigger picture of Jesus’ and God’s love because our thoughts are stuck on our own trivial concerns. Just like the hummingbird, God and Jesus want for us to see the bigger picture of His abundant love. He opens that bigger door for us all to fl y through. Th e only requirement is that we accept this love and fl y into His glorious world.

Prayer: Dear Jesus thank you for the opportunities you give us each and every day to fl y into your glorious love.

--Dr. Quimby Melton III

Sunday, March 31

Easter SundayScripture: Luke 24:1-12 “Th e women were terrifi ed and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “why do you look for the living among the dead, He is not here but has risen”! (Luke 24:5)

We are celebrating a year of giving thanks. We are trying to live each day with a grateful heart and thanking someone for something every day. Today we all need to be thankful for an empty tomb. Once while getting my hair cut, I told the barber I had just returned from visiting the Holy Lands. He was full of questions. He then asked me, “Did you see the place where Jesus is buried?” I told him that I saw the place where Jesus WAS buried. He got a little off ended and said, “Whatever”. Friends this is not a “whatever” day. Th is is Easter the greatest day of the year celebrating the greatest event of all history. Someone once said that this is a day that frustrates hell. Hell and death are frustrated today because they have been mocked and defeated. Death reached up and sized a man on a cross and encountered God; it took a mortal and was overcome by the immortal. No, this is not a “whatever” day. Because of Easter, because of the empty tomb God has defeated death and we can have life abundant and eternal. Give thanks today for life. Give thanks today for Christ’s victory over sin and the grave. Give thanks today for Easter.

Dear God, we give you thanks today for Easter. We thank you for coming, and dying and rising from the grave. We now know we need not fear death. Because of Easter we will have life with you for all eternity. Help us to live our lives as Easter People. Help us to live from this day forward as people of faith not fear and as people of joy and thanksgiving. AMEN

--Rev. Kevin Lobello, Senior Minister