| Original Date: September 23, 2009 |
| Email Subject: Our word.... |
Dear Friends,
Last night, while watching the news, I was struck by a new book out that reveals top political figures (both sides of the isle, by the way) that think nothing of lying to get elected. In this book the writers have documented factual evidence of many in top places of our government that have done and are presently lying on a regular basis to get what they want. What a model for our young ones to follow wouldn't, you say??????
While growing up in a small Nebraska town it was interesting to watch people do business with others. They didn't need a contract for this or that, they merely shook on the issue being decided and that sealed the commitment they made to do business together. No lying, no deception, no desire for selfish gain for one reason or another, a man and his word were what was important and valued.
How vital that is still today for the Christ follower. I can't determine what others do with their words and promises, but I can make sure when I say something or commit to do something that it is followed up by a commitment to fulfill it to the best of my ability for the glory of Christ, the One true Lord we ultimately represent in this World.
Paul encourages Timothy in the list of character qualities that define biblical leaders that "they must be above reproach." In other words that the words of their mouth, the commitments they make, the follow through to accomplish these commitments are as good as done when the words are spoken. That person is trustworthy, dependable, faithful, committed to his word and the glory of Christ being seen in and through their life.
I am saddened when I hear stories like I did last night, but I also understand that I am only accountable for the one looking back in the mirror at me each day. I want to make sure that my life, character, speech and witness are set a part for His glory each moment of the day. By God's grace may we as followers of the Living Lord represent Him in a manner worthy of our calling as His children in a world that so desperately needs this kind of character to be seen! Have a great day!
Your friend,
Pastor Doug
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-"Gripped by Grace" is the sermon series from 1 Peter we are doing at Cornerstone. This week we will be studying 1 Peter 1:13-25, seeking to understand that when we are gripped by His grace, there will be several qualities that represent a life set a part by His grace and love. "Keeping clean in a filthy world" is not easy but truly essential for His glory. I look forward to growing with you through this series from His Word!
-"The Heart of a Great Marriage" conference is coming up in October at Cornerstone. It is a video conference with quality national speakers looking at what ingredients that are necessary to have not just a good marriage but a great marriage. Plan to join us for this conference as well as invite friends who desire that their marriages not just are average but growing and glowing. This conference is for those who are seriously dating, engaged all the way up to those of us who have been married for quite sometime. |
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