January 2001
A MOMENT WITH OUR MINISTER
Whether it was true last year, it is true now. No one will argue that we are not now in the 21St
century, as we calculate time. But, how should we live out this, the first year of the 21St century?
1.) Phone, or better yet, arrange to visit a person (s) whom you think may be lonely. Loneliness ranks almost at the top of inner
emotions. This will bring a personal blessing from God. You will be amazed at the reward you will receive.
2) "Give a soft answer". The Book of Proverbs tells us that a soft answer truth away wrath, but grievous (harsh) words stir up
anger." Proverbs 15:1
3) Encourage youth to do their best. Like it or not, you and I are role models for young people. Dare they follow the model they see in you? Where would it lead them?
4) Stay in close touch with your family and friends. The Book of Proverbs tell us that "Better a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away". Proverbs 27: lOb
5) Do not magnify small problems. Stop "shooting from the lip". If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless." James 1:26 (NW)
6) Make time to be kind. Many times it takes discipline to be kind. The Scriptures instruct us to, in the words of Jesus, "Be you kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another"... What a great statement of truth!
7) "Listen more". Good listeners make a difference. One of my goals in ministry is to be a good listener. My desire is that God will make me just that.
8) Practice asking forgiveness. You, nor I, know no person who has never been wrong. Admission of the wrong and asking for
forgiveness brings inner peace. And peace for others.
9) Respect those who disagree with you. Because you respect those who disagree with you does mean that you have changed
your mind. Christians, of all people, are to be respectful.
10) When an uncomfortable event takes place, ask yourself, "Will it matter one week from today?" Try it. You might like it.
11) Try turning pessimists into optimists. Sure, it may take a lot of work and patience. Think of how different things could be as a result. You can do it, with God's help.
12) Take good care of yourself. Remember, you're all you've got". And God reminds us that we are worth more than the combined wealth of the world.
These are my suggestions to you for the first 12 months of the Century 21.
your friend and Pastor, John
Links to other sites on the Web
Home Page
Read other letters in our Archivies
Keep trying back will be update soon. Thanks.
© 1997
Get your own Free Home Page