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The Peril of Selfishness: A Christian Perspective on the Dangers of Prioritizing Oneself

SDA JournalSermonSep 1, 2023

Selfishness, often defined as a concern for one's own welfare or interests without regard for others, is a trait that has long been admonished in various moral and spiritual traditions. In Christianity, the value of selflessness is emphasized as a... (read more)

<p>Selfishness, often defined as a concern for one's own welfare or interests without regard for others, is a trait that has long been admonished in various moral and spiritual traditions. In Christianity, the value of selflessness is emphasized as a core principle, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. This article explores the dangers of selfishness within the context of Christianity, highlighting how it runs contrary to the principles of love, compassion, and humility that Jesus exemplified.</p>
<h4>The Foundation of Christian Love</h4>
<p>Central to the teachings of Christianity is the commandment to love one's neighbor as oneself. In Mark 12:31 (NIV), Jesus states, "The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these." Selfishness contradicts this fundamental principle, as it places one's desires and needs above those of others. When individuals prioritize themselves to the detriment of their fellow human beings, they fail to fulfill the call to love unconditionally.</p>
<h4>Christ's Example of Selflessness</h4>
<p>The life of Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of selflessness. From his humble birth in a stable to his sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus consistently demonstrated a selfless nature. In Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV), the Apostle Paul urges believers, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." By putting others before himself, Jesus showcased the kind of selflessness that Christians are called to emulate.</p>
<h4>The Dehumanizing Effect of Selfishness</h4>
<p>Selfishness not only damages relationships but also diminishes the inherent worth of others. When individuals prioritize their own desires without considering the needs of those around them, they risk treating others as means to an end rather than as fellow human beings deserving of respect and care. This dehumanizing effect stands in stark contrast to the Christian belief that every person is created in the image of God and deserves love and dignity.</p>
<h4>Undermining Community and Unity</h4>
<p>A selfish attitude can erode the sense of community and unity that Christianity seeks to foster. In 1 Corinthians 12:25-27 (NIV), the Apostle Paul uses the analogy of the body to illustrate the interconnectedness of believers within the Church: "so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." Selfishness disrupts this unity by encouraging a focus on individual needs rather than the well-being of the whole community.</p>
<p>Ellen G. White spoke extensively about the importance of unity within the body of believers. She stressed that selfishness creates division and disrupts the harmony that Christ intended for His followers.</p>
<h4>The Call to Repentance and Transformation</h4>
<p>Recognizing the dangers of selfishness, Christianity encourages individuals to repent and seek transformation. In Matthew 4:17 (NIV), Jesus proclaims, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." This call to repentance extends to selfish behavior, inviting individuals to turn away from self-centeredness and embrace a life characterized by humility, compassion, and a genuine concern for others.</p>
<h4>Conclusion</h4>
<p>Selfishness stands in stark contrast to the core teachings of Christianity, which emphasize love, selflessness, and the well-being of others. By prioritizing one's own desires over the needs of others, individuals risk damaging relationships, undermining community, and straying from the path that Jesus exemplified. A sincere commitment to selflessness, rooted in the teachings of Christ, leads to a more compassionate, harmonious, and spiritually fulfilling life that aligns with the essence of Christianity.</p>

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Empowered by Faith: Christian Youth Embracing Purpose

SDA JournalSermonAug 31, 2023

1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV): "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." Our young people hold a special place in... (read more)

<blockquote>1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV): "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."</blockquote>
<p>Our young people hold a special place in God's plan, and their energy, enthusiasm, and devotion are gifts that can ignite positive change in our world. Let us explore how Christian youth can embrace their faith, navigate challenges, and embark on a journey of purpose and impact.</p>
<h4>I. Embracing Identity in Christ:</h4>
<p>Christian youth are not just the future of the Church; they are essential members of the body of Christ today. Embracing their identity in Christ empowers them to live purpose-driven lives. Just as the psalmist declared, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made," our young people must understand their worth as beloved children of God. This knowledge anchors their faith and influences every aspect of their lives.</p>
<h4>II. Engaging with God's Word:</h4>
<p>The Bible is not merely a book of stories; it's a roadmap for life. Encouraging our youth to engage with God's Word equips them with wisdom, guidance, and the tools they need to navigate life's challenges. The psalmist wrote, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." As Christian youth immerse themselves in Scripture, they gain insight into God's plan for their lives.</p>
<h4>III. Pursuing Holiness in a Changing World:</h4>
<p>The world our youth navigate is constantly changing, presenting new opportunities and challenges. However, the call to holiness remains constant. In a culture that often emphasizes instant gratification and conformity, Christian youth are called to stand firm in their faith and values. The apostle Paul's encouragement to Timothy, "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers," reminds our youth of their potential to influence others through their actions.</p>
<h4>IV. Embracing Leadership and Service:</h4>
<p>Christian youth are not only recipients of God's love but also vessels through which His love can flow to others. Engaging in acts of service and leadership within the Church and the community allows them to tangibly demonstrate Christ's love. Whether it's through volunteering, mentoring, or sharing their talents, our young people contribute to positive change and become ambassadors of hope.</p>
<h4>V. Overcoming Doubt and Fear:</h4>
<p>Doubts and fears are common experiences, even among the faithful. Our youth should know that they are not alone in these struggles. Just as God encouraged Joshua with the words, "Be strong and courageous," our young people can find strength in God's promises. Encouraging open conversations and providing a supportive community can help them overcome doubts and fears.</p>
<h4>VI. Living Out a Legacy of Faith:</h4>
<p>The journey of Christian youth is not just about the present; it's about leaving a legacy of faith for generations to come. As they walk alongside more experienced believers, they learn from their wisdom while infusing new perspectives. Just as the apostle Paul advised Timothy, "Set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity," our young people can inspire others through their lives.</p>
<h4>Conclusion:</h4>
<p>Dear youth, your role within the body of Christ is invaluable. You are not just the future; you are a vibrant part of God's story today. Embrace your identity in Christ, engage with His Word, pursue holiness, serve with love, overcome doubts, and live out a legacy of faith. As we support and encourage you on your journey, may you find strength, purpose, and joy in your walk with God. Your faith has the power to shape our world, and we eagerly anticipate the impact you will make as you follow God's path for your lives. Amen.</p>

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Living the Love Commandment: Christian Love in Action

SDA JournalSermonAug 30, 2023

"John 13:34-35 (NIV): 'A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.'" Love is a... (read more)

<blockquote>"John 13:34-35 (NIV): 'A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.'"</blockquote>
<p>Love is a powerful emotion. It can bring joy and peace to our lives, and it can also bring pain and sorrow. But no matter what, it is a feeling that we cannot ignore. As Christians, we are called to love one another. We are called to be patient, kind, and understanding, and to treat others with respect and compassion.</p>
<p>The Bible is full of examples of God’s love for us. In the Old Testament, God showed his love for the Israelites by leading them through the wilderness and providing for them. In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrated his love for us by dying on the cross for our sins.</p>
<p>God commands us to love one another, and this commandment is not difficult to keep. We can show love to those around us by being generous, forgiving, and encouraging. We can also spread love by simply being there for someone in their time of need.</p>
<p>Love is a beautiful thing, but it is also a powerful force. We must use it to build up and strengthen relationships, not tear them down. We must use it to bring peace and harmony into the world and not to bring chaos and destruction.</p>
<p>We must remember that love is not something that can be taken for granted. It is something that we must actively pursue and nurture. Let us strive to be people of love, and may the love of God be with us always. Amen.</p>

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The Joyful Journey of Marriage

SDA JournalSermonAug 29, 2023

Beloved Brethren, this is a short message to reflect upon the sacred bond of marriage – a journey filled with love, commitment, and shared joy. As we delve into the topic of a happy marriage, let us explore the timeless... (read more)

<p>Beloved Brethren, this is a short message to reflect upon the sacred bond of marriage – a journey filled with love, commitment, and shared joy. As we delve into the topic of a happy marriage, let us explore the timeless principles that guide us in nurturing and cherishing this special relationship.</p>
<blockquote>1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV): "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."</blockquote>
<h4>I. Foundation of Love and Respect:</h4>
<p>A happy marriage is built upon the foundation of love and respect. Just as a strong house needs a solid base, a marriage flourishes when love and respect are its cornerstones. Love is not just an emotion but a conscious choice to put the well-being of your partner before your own. It is patient, kind, and forgiving. Likewise, respect is the recognition of each other's individuality and worth. It involves valuing each other's opinions, feelings, and aspirations.</p>
<h4>II. Effective Communication:</h4>
<p>Communication is the bridge that connects two hearts and minds. In a happy marriage, open and honest communication is essential. Take time to listen to your partner's thoughts and feelings without judgment. Practice active listening – truly hearing what they're saying, not just waiting for your turn to speak. Effective communication also involves expressing your own thoughts and emotions respectfully, fostering a deeper understanding between partners.</p>
<h4>III. Shared Goals and Values:</h4>
<p>A strong marriage is one where partners are united not only in love but also in purpose. Sharing common goals and values helps create a sense of unity and purpose. These shared aspirations become the compass that guides the couple through life's challenges and triumphs. Whether it's in matters of family, career, or personal growth, aligning your ambitions can fortify your bond.</p>
<h4>IV. Embracing Differences:</h4>
<p>No two individuals are exactly alike, and that's what makes a marriage beautiful. Embracing your partner's differences and quirks fosters an environment of acceptance and understanding. Instead of trying to change each other, celebrate the unique qualities that drew you together. Remember, it's the combination of these differences that adds richness and depth to your relationship.</p>
<h4>V. Practicing Gratitude:</h4>
<p>Gratitude is the secret ingredient of a happy marriage. Regularly expressing thankfulness for the little things your partner does can make a world of difference. A simple "thank you" or a heartfelt note can remind both partners of the blessings they bring into each other's lives. Gratitude cultivates a positive atmosphere, strengthening the connection between spouses.</p>
<h4>VI. Weathering Storms Together:</h4>
<p>Life is not without its storms, and a marriage is no exception. The true test of a relationship lies in how partners weather these storms together. Difficulties may arise, but facing them as a team, with unwavering support and commitment, can bring you closer. The storms you conquer together become the chapters of your shared story, reinforcing the strength of your bond.</p>
<h4>VII. Prayer and Unity:</h4>
<p>A strong marriage is one that is bathed in prayer. Praying together as a couple cultivates unity with each other and with God. Inviting God into your marriage allows Him to guide your decisions, provide strength during challenges, and deepen your connection as you grow spiritually together.</p>
<blockquote>Genesis 2:24 (NIV): "That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh."</blockquote>
<h4>Conclusion:</h4>
<p>In closing, dear friends, a happy marriage is a constant journey, not a final destination. It's a voyage of discovery, growth, and shared experiences. By building upon the foundation of love and respect, fostering effective communication, sharing goals and values, embracing differences, practicing gratitude, and weathering storms together, we can ensure that our marriages are not only sources of joy but also testimonies of enduring love. Let us continually strive to enrich our marriages and create a legacy of love that will inspire generations to come. <em>Amen</em>.</p>

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Remember The Needy

SDA JournalSermonJun 1, 2023

If we present the character of Christ, every particle of selfishness must be expelled from the soul. In carrying forward the work He gave to our hands, it will be necessary for us to give every jot and tittle of... (read more)

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Three Main Signs of a True Christian

SDA JournalSermonAug 16, 2022

If the 2 billion plus people who are classified as Christians were true Christians we would have a totally different world. We would have lesser number of very poor people, much lesser number of crimes, and an increasing number of... (read more)

<p>If the 2 billion plus people who are classified as Christians were true Christians we would have a totally different world. We would have lesser number of very poor people, much lesser number of crimes, and an increasing number of people who make other people happy.</p>
<p>Unfortunately and very sadly too, most of the 2 billion or more who say they are Christians are false Christians. They are not true as they do not show the signs of a real Christian.</p>
<p>We have fake money bills, fake documents, fake transcripts of records, fake certificates, fake signatures. But the worst and most dangerous counterfeit is not money or document but a fake Christian. The reason is because a fake Christian can create havoc not just in the banks or in employment but in all the sectors of society.</p>
<p>It was fake Christians who have been waging wars all through these centuries, including the two world wars, putting to death millions of human beings.</p>
<p>To recognize who these fake Christians are we need to know the signs of a true Christian. There are three main signs.</p>
<p><strong>First, the true Christian is one who is no longer seeking for something in this world to save himself or make himself happy.</strong> If you have been to an Easter Party with an Easter egg, you would know what I mean.</p>
<p>In an Easter Party where the people search for the Easter egg you see children and adults walking around, searching for the coveted Easter egg, a colored egg hidden in furniture, in grass, in other places around the venue of the party. They keep on looking for this Easter egg until it is found. Most of the time there are many of such egg and people look for more and more of them, until the moderator of the game tells the partying people that the total number of Easter eggs have been found.</p>
<p>That is what most people do. They are looking for something that can make them happy. Some people think that this is found in money and more money, and so they acquire more of this. Others think that this is found in having three good meals a day, a sturdy roof over their head, and a set of comfortable clothes. So they work for these from day to day. Still others think that they can find happiness in honor. So they search for ways and means to become celebrities, whether at school, in the movie industry or in politics or in other areas.</p>
<p>The true Christian has found genuine happiness and knows where she has found this, in an encounter with God in Christ. This encounter happens when she has heard personally the word of God spoken to her and she has responded accordingly. Without this personal experience of God addressing oneself there is no real Christian.</p>
<p>This personal experience with the word of God is not something reserved to the saints or great Christians. This is the necessary experience of every true Christian. This makes the person discover where true happiness lies, in Christ and in him alone.</p>
<p>Because of this experience, the true Christian stops looking for something to truly satisfy her thirst for happiness. She has found it and it shows in her life. She does not come and go here and there searching for something to make her happy. She has found happiness and it shows in her demeanor.</p>
<p><strong>The second main sign of a true Christian is that she is learning about the Christ.</strong> And this shows in her thoughts and in her words.</p>
<p>A simple but very correct definition of a Christian is that she is a learner of the Jesus, because the basic meaning of "disciple" in Greek is "learner". If a Christian is a disciple of Christ, then she is a learner. She learns something of Jesus every day.</p>
<p>To do this she has a book or a string of beads to meditate on the life and works of the Christ. And she does this not because she has been told to do so by a teacher in religion or Bible study group. She does this because she loves Christ and she wants to know more about him. This is done on a daily basis, not once in a while.</p>
<p>This second sign of a true Christian disqualifies almost all those who even go to church daily or once a week to be called real Christians. This is because they are content with going to church daily or once a week and never advance in their personal knowledge of Christ.</p>
<p><strong>The third sign of a true Christian is something that Jesus himself said was the true sign of his followers.</strong> And this sign is something that cannot be faked. It is so simple and yet it cannot be produced by mere human effort. It is produced by God in us and through us. Unless this sign is clear in our lives we cannot say that we are real Christians.</p>
<p><strong>This third sign is love.</strong></p>
<p>But is it not just a wishy-washy kind of love. It is love that endures through death and even beyond death. It is not a fine feeling for the person next to you whom you happen to like.</p>
<p>Beyond love of God and love of neighbor, this is love of other true Christians. The true Christian senses a deep affinity with other true Christians, an affinity stronger than family ties. And she loves the other true Christians not with her human love but with the love of Christ himself.</p>
<p>Now, how is this love of Christ himself for the other true Christians shown so that other people can see it? It is shown by caring unto the uttermost, just as Jesus cared for that person to the uttermost.</p>
<p>These are the three main signs of a true Christian: 1) The true Christian no longer is looking for something to make her happy; she has found what makes her totally happy through a personal encounter with the word of God. 2) The true Christian learns about the Christ daily. She discovers something new about the Christ everyday. And she keeps on learning about the Christ. 3) The true Christian has a genuine love for the other true Christians, a love that comes from Jesus himself, shown by caring for the other Christians to the uttermost.</p>
<p>It is not baptism nor any other sacrament, nor doing good deeds to our fellow men, nor going to church and performing religious or church activities that tell others we are true Christians. It is sense of total happiness radiating around us, a continuous desire to learn more of Christ, and genuine Christ's love for the other true Christian that tell others we are true Christians.</p>

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How to Flourish Like David: 5 Keys to Spiritual Growth

SDA JournalSermonAug 13, 2022

David wrote about half of the Psalms. He was a gifted writer and musician, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he wrote a plethora of hymns that have resonated with the hearts of God's people for centuries. Psalm 52... (read more)

<p>David wrote about half of the Psalms. He was a gifted writer and musician, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he wrote a plethora of hymns that have resonated with the hearts of God's people for centuries.</p>
<p>Psalm 52 is no exception. It ends with these words:</p>
<blockquote>"But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; <br />
I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever. <br />
I will praise you forever for what you have done; <br />
In your name I will hope, for your name is good. <br />
I will praise you in the presence of your saints." <br />
Psalm 52:8-9 (NIV 1978)</blockquote>
<p>David experienced much pain and suffering in his life. In his early years, before he became Israel's king, he was the victim of undeserved abuse at the hand of King Saul. And after taking the throne, he brought much turmoil on himself as a result of his adultery with Bathsheba and his murder of her husband Uriah.</p>
<p>Yet through it all, he maintained a life of devotion to God. He is described twice as a man "after God's own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22). And here in Psalm 52 we see David reflecting on his life and saying, "I am like a green olive tree" (ESV). Like any tree, a healthy olive tree should have green leaves and bear fruit. This is what a tree is made to do. This is what it means for it to flourish and thrive.</p>
<p>After comparing himself to a mature, fruit-bearing olive tree, David then proclaims what that kind of life looks like. He takes a personal inventory and sees the evidence of God's power at work in his attitudes and actions. And while David praises God for His provision, we get a firsthand account of five spiritual keys which enabled him to pursue and maintain a godly life no matter what.</p>
<h4>Key #1: Acceptance of God's forgiveness.</h4>
<p>"I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God." Note that David says he is like a fruitful tree <em>in the house of God.</em> The temple wasn't built yet, so this could be a reference to the tabernacle, the place where repentant sinners came to acknowledge their sins and offer an animal sacrifice to symbolize the provision of God's grace through the forgiveness of sins. A godly life starts here, with the recognition of our rebellion against God and our need for His mercy. When we repent, God is more than willing to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from our unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). To live a God-pleasing life, David knew that he needed God's forgiveness, as evidenced by his writing of Psalms 32 and 51.</p>
<h4>Key #2: Faith in God's love.</h4>
<p>"I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever." David was a firm believer in the never failing, steadfast love of God. He had a confident conviction in God's unwavering commitment to His people. This faith was based on a profound understanding that God knows what is best for us. He can be trusted because He is trustworthy. We can rely on Him to take care of us through thick and thin, good times and bad. Just like us, David had plenty of both.</p>
<h4>Key #3: Praise for God's work.</h4>
<p>"I will praise you forever for what you have done." At any point in time, David could look back on his life and see what God had done for him. David recognized God as the ultimate source of all he had experienced in life, and he continued to worship God regardless of his circumstances. The beginning of verse 9 can also be translated, "I will thank you forever, because you have done it." David was a thankful man, filled with gratitude for the grace and mercy of God to him, an undeserving sinner.</p>
<h4>Key #4: Hope in God's goodness.</h4>
<p>"In your name I will hope, for your name is good." David was a man of hope. Because of the goodness of God, he had a positive outlook on the future. In Scripture, the word "hope" is not the wishful thinking that says, "I hope I win the lottery." Instead, it is the strong expectation and certain assurance that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28).</p>
<h4>Key #5: Fellowship with God's people.</h4>
<p>"I will praise you in the presence of your saints." David did not trust God in isolation from others. His faith and hope were bolstered by a close relationship with other believers. He lived for God with the people of God. This is one of the indispensable marks of genuine faith -- identification with and involvement in the church of Christ. The genuine Christian life is not a solo flight. It is lived out in the context of the local church -- the family of God, the household of faith.</p>
<h4>Reality Check</h4>
<p>As you reflect on these key characteristics of David's life, I urge you to take an inventory of your own life. How are you doing in each of these areas?</p>
<p><em>Do you regularly and genuinely confess and forsake your sins</em>, going to God directly to express heartfelt sorrow over your faults, as well as the need for God's power to overcome them? Then, while looking to the death of Jesus as the sole basis for God's forgiveness, you experience the sweet joy of reconciliation with your Savior.</p>
<p><em>Do you believe in the sovereign, never-changing love of God?</em> To increase that faith, it is essential that you spend much time in the Word, knowing that "faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ" (Romans 10:17).</p>
<p><em>Do you offer praise and thanks to God for His work on your behalf?</em> A true Christian is increasingly enthralled by God's work of salvation on our behalf through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. We never tire of hearing the good news of the gospel of Christ. It is sweeter than honey and more precious than gold!</p>
<p><em>Do you find hope in the goodness of God?</em> You do not have to travel far or spend much money to experience God's kindness. Simply open the Bible and you'll find evidence of His grace on every page. Then take a look at your own life and you'll see the same God extending that same grace to you.</p>
<p><em>Are you actively involved in a local church?</em> Do you enjoy spending time with God's people, worshipping Jesus together, serving Him together, and becoming increasingly like Him together? If not, something is amiss and you are outside the will of God.</p>
<p>By the grace of God and the strength provided by the Holy Spirit, every believer can flourish by living in the presence of God. May this be my experience, and yours as well.</p>

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A Moment to Pause

SDA JournalSermonJul 9, 2022

When in doubt, pause. When we begin to lose faith, immediately get into communication with God. Pray for reassurance, pray for peace, pray for security…and all of these things will come to you. God never wants us to doubt his... (read more)

When angry, pause. This one is probably the most important. When we’re angry, it’s easy for us to quickly react without thinking. Take a deep breath, stop and give yourself a chance to calm down. We should never react or make spur of the moment decisions when we’re mad. We should be clear-headed, calm and controlled when we deal with tough situations or people.

When tired, pause. Let’s face it, we all get a little tired sometimes and could use a couple pauses throughout our day. Take a break from what you’re doing and spend a few minutes with God when you’re feeling overwhelmed, worn out or beaten down. These few minutes with him can make the world of a difference.

When stressed, pause. If you let stress and anxiety take over your thoughts, it can fully consume you. When I become stressed or worried, I pause and immediately start counting my blessings. You can even write them down in a journal or in the notes section of your phone. This always helps change my mind from thoughts of worry to thoughts of praise.

Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Rest in God today and take advantage of your pauses. They will change the way you deal with doubt, anger, stress and so much more!

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The Sower (Parable of Jesus)

SDA JournalSermonJun 30, 2022

Matthew 13:1-23 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then... (read more)

<p>Matthew 13:1-23</p>
<p>That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. This is why I speak to them in parables:</p>
<p>“Though seeing, they do not see;<br />
though hearing, they do not hear or understand.</p>
<p>In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:</p>
<p>“‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding;<br />
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.<br />
For this people’s heart has become calloused;<br />
they hardly hear with their ears,<br />
and they have closed their eyes.<br />
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,<br />
hear with their ears,<br />
understand with their hearts<br />
and turn, and I would heal them.’</p>
<p>But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”</p>

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A Chicken Story

SDA JournalSermonJun 28, 2022

The story is told of Joe the Butcher who had crafty ways of selling his chickens. He had one chicken left, and he didn't want to keep it over the weekend. The pastor of his church came  into the store. He said, "My wife sent me to buy a good size chicken to roast for dinner. We're having my boys come back home from college."

Joe said, "I have just what you need." He went to the freezer and brought out the last chicken, the one nobody wanted, and put it on the scale. He said, "This one is 2 pounds 3 ounces."

The pastor said, "It looks sort of small. Do you have anything else?"

Joe took the chicken back into the freezer and came back with the same chicken, the only one he had. He put it on the scale and this time said, "This one is 3 pounds and five ounces. But since you're a man of God, I'm going to let you have it for the same price."

The pastor said, "Well, thank you, but come to think of it, the way my boys eat, just go ahead and give me both of the chickens, and I'll pay the higher price for them both."

Just when he least expected it, Joe had been caught in a lie. When was the last time when you, like Joe, last time when you was caught in a lie? Although we don't want to admit it, lying is one of the most common sins practiced by so called Christians... Are you one of them?

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