By Emily Agee

“Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, saying, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat:  All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do, but do not ye after their works:  for they say, do not.  For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.  But all their works they do for to be seen of men:  they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments.  And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets and to be called of men, “Rabbi, Rabbi”’” (Matthew 23:1-7).

Thought for the week: “He Will Guide Me”

“If I take the time to quiet down when hard things come my way, if I take the time to listen well during those moments when I pray.  Then I find that He will guide me through the darkness of the night, and be with me no matter what the outcome of my plight.”

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with of prayer, scripture and songs directed by Jennifer Peoples.  The scripture was read by Perry Nunn with prayer by Pastor Dukes and Carl Singleterry.  Songs sung were, “Glory Hallelujah,”  “My Soul Contended”  “My Soul Would Not Rest Until I Found the Lord”  and “Lord Don’t Do Without Me.”

The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes. He talked about a man who had a major role in God’s word but never said a word.

God knows how to keep us, and this is important for a godly man in church. Picture a quiet, powerful man who spells out what God wants from us; the characteristic of a chosen man God wanted to use to raise his son. This example of a godly man was Joseph; he was part of the image of Jesus Christ and played a role in raising Jesus.

God choose Joseph because he could trust him.  A man is defined by the ability to take care of his family.  Joseph was a just man, worked as a carpenter and was engaged to Mary. He stood by Mary; he did not tear down his spouse.  Everything was of the Holy Spirit.  He did not question God. Joseph was obedient when the angels told him that Mary was with child through the Holy Ghost; he heard God in hart times, went with what God said and trusted God.

Men have a responsibility to support and raise their children; a man sets standards in the household.  Men have stopped being men. God gave man permission to be the head in the garden of Eden. Men, take your place.

The service concluded with fellowship by Pastor Dukes, deacons and the congregation.

Our sympathy goes out to the families of Kevin Foshee and Clarence Dixon in their time of bereavement.  Funeral arrangements are incomplete.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers:  Jerry Wilson, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Joseph McCall, Joe Frank Allison and Robert Spence.  May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.