This morning started early. Mary Lou Braswell gave the mornings devotion from Mathew 6:19-20; 19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
The morning worship service was based on Romans 8. Romans 8:12 says; 12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.
Pastor Carlos talked very much about living in the Spirit of Christ, rather than just putting on a show for other people. The desires of the Spirit and the desires of the flesh work like magnets pushing against each other. Life here on earth is not easy, but living through the Spirit will make our Christian life much easier.
Is that what we are striving for in our lives? I know we all slip, we are all concerned to some degree what people think of us... but think about it.... if we are always living in the Spirit.... what do you think people will see in us? Would we have to spend so much time thinking about what people think of us, or telling others about how great we are? Or, if we live our lives in the Spirit, would we worry so much at all? I think we'd be living as God wants us to live, and it would show, so we would have no reason to worry so much. The message was powerful, the service was moving, the alter call was very special, and no one left that church without being convicted. God lives in this place, Costa Rica, and God lives in Nashville, NC and God lives in White Oak,NC and God lives in Spring Hope, NC and God even lives in the RDU airport and the NYC airport and the Miami airport. Brothers and sisters... open you soul and allow God to live in you!!!
After church we had a little get together for the pastor's son and his wife, as they have a baby due this week. Yes, we're all hoping to meet Braedon before we leave here next weekend. The team was aware of the impending birth and we all brought a little something to celebrate with the family.
Friends as the sun goes down on this day... let us rejoice and be glad that we have God and the Holy Spirit to guide us and carry us. Being a Christian is not just about Sunday worship, it is about how we live our lives. I chose to live in the Spirit. God Bless you all, Amen and Amen.
The Woodard family is praying for all of you and so excited to see you and visit via Skype! The Lord I know is working in and through you for His glory! Scripture tells us, "Call to Me, and I will show you great and mighty things for which you do not know." Thank you all for being the hands and feet of Jesus!
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