Cedar Grove Baptist Church

We believe in the resurrection power!

We had an amazing service at Cedar Grove, and if you missed it, you missed a blessing. Our special singing was brought by Sis. Amelia. She sang “Jesus Is Alive and Well.” Bro. Gary sang “Your Cries Have Awoken the Master.” Bro. Stony visited today and sang “This Train Is Glory Bound” and “Amazing Grace.” He also played the harmonica. All did an awesome job.

Pastor Jeff’s text came from 2 Timothy 2:1-7. His sermon was titled «The Good Soldier.» To be a soldier in man›s army, you have to enlist (previously, some men were drafted) into service. What does it take to be a soldier in God›s army?

There are three main things we must do to be in God›s army: be like an athlete and run the full race, be a good husbandman (able to farm) and endure hardness. The Bible tells us Paul fought the good fight and kept the faith. We as Christians must do the same. Strive for the master and follow the rules (the Bible). Be committed and always training for what God has coming, for our redemption draws nigh. Many want to see the fight, but do not want to fight. A lot of people do not understand that the battle is not ours, but Christ’s, who lives in us. Through Christ all things are possible.

David is a great example of knowing and trusting God. When he slew Goliath, all the people around him, his family included, were afraid of the giant. David was just a kid, but he knew and informed the giant that the Lord does not save with sword and spear: “For the battle is the Lord›s, and he will give you into our hands.” We all need to learn the lesson in this story of David he defeated the giant with a sling and one smooth stone, but it was not David, nor did he claim it to be; the power of the Lord had David›s back.

What kind of soldier are we today? Will we believe in the resurrection power of God and go up against the super natural realms at work in our lives today, or will be like the people of Israel when David went up against the giant? Will we hide, not wanting to get involved, not go to the front line of the battle against Satan? Our power is Jesus, but we have to admit we are nothing and can do nothing. The battle belongs to God; we just have to be a good soldier, believe, have faith and turn it all over to God. He is able and will see us through.

To God be the glory. Jesus is alive and well. Are you in God›s army today? Time is running out. Call on Jesus today; he is waiting to hear from you.

Announcements: Friday night prayer service starts at 7 p.m. We want to recognize all veterans every day. Let us lift up all of our soldiers in prayer and with love.

Prayer concerns: Josh Hayes, Eli Jackson, Charlotte, Wendell, P.J., Shane, Hannah, Blair, Sara, Amy and Rodger, Janet Wyatt, Russell Wyatt, those in the hospital and nursing homes, spoken and unspoken requests.

Love to all. God bless and have a great week!