Sunday, October 31, 2010

October 31, 2010 ~ Transformed


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:


“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — His good, pleasing and perfect will”

Romans 12:2

TODAY’S WORD:

Most people have things in their lives that they want to change — old habits, addictions or something they want to overcome. The world offers so many “solutions” to improve your life; but really, the only way we are truly changed, the only way to be permanently transformed is by renewing your mind with the Word of God.

The scripture tells us that we shouldn’t follow the pattern of the world. What is the pattern of the world? It’s the constant striving to do more, be more and have more that only leads to weariness, emptiness and frustration. That’s not what God intends! Instead, focus your thoughts on the Word of God because when you make the Word your number one focus, something supernatural takes place. I can see in my own life where the God' things are slowly and consistently on the increase as I yield more and more to my way and my will. Take it from a chronic procrastinator that you need not wait any longer to experience the blessing of transformation. Do it now! Do it today! Focus your thoughts on the Word of God.

Selah people' and friends only you can control the doorway to your mind. Nobody can do this for you. You choose what you meditate on and what you set before your eyes. I encourage you to stay on the offensive and diligently guard your mind and heart because when you do things God’s way, you get God’s results — life, peace and joy!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, today I submit myself to You and to Your Word. I invite You to transform me into Your image. Help me to make wise choices and keep me close to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

In Christ service,
Patrick

Rev Patrick Muston, Senior Pastor

Selah Christian Church
Four Oaks, NC
http://selahchurch.com

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Friday, October 29, 2010

October 29, 2010 ~ He Laughs in the Heavens


To make God laugh tell Him your plans...

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“He Who sits in the heavens laughs...”

Psalm 2:4

TODAY’S WORD:

Have you ever imagined God laughing in the heavens? Think about it for a moment. Right now, God is on the throne. He’s not mad. He’s not worried about the economy. He’s not upset with you and me. God is full of joy and laughing on the throne. It goes on to tell us in Psalm 37 that He’s laughing because “He can see the destruction of the enemy coming.” In other words, the reason God laughs is because He knows the end of the story. He knows the final outcome. The good news is that you and I win.
God always causes us to triumph!

God is alway there watching over you!

Selah people' and friends imagine watching the Super Bowl when you already know the outcome. You already know who is going to win. No matter how far behind the winning team falls, no matter how bad it looks for them, you wouldn’t get upset. You wouldn’t be worried. Why? You’ve got inside information. You know the final outcome. That’s what God is saying to us today. When it gets tough and things don’t look like they’re going to work out, we know that with God we are on the winning team! Today, you can laugh with Him knowing that He has favor, strength and victory in store for your future!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:


Father in heaven, I choose to rest and trust in You. Thank You for bringing victory in every area of my life. Give me opportunities today to share Your joy and love with the people around me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

In Christ service,
Patrick

Rev Patrick Muston, Senior Pastor

Selah Christian Church
Four Oaks, NC
http://selahchurch.com

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Thursday, October 28, 2010

October 28th, 2010 ~ Sudden Breakthroughs



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“...the Lord has broken through my enemies before me, like the bursting out of great waters...”

2 Samuel 5:20


TODAY’S WORD:

God wants to give you a breakthrough — a sudden burst of His favor; an explosion of His goodness. He wants to release His power in such a way that it overwhelms you and drives out your enemies!

Maybe you’ve been praying about a relationship for years; and suddenly, things get into place. That’s a breakthrough. Or, you were trying to get a certain job. They said there were no openings; but suddenly, they call you back and you get the job. That’s another breakthrough. Perhaps you’ve struggled with an addiction for a long time; but then something happens, and it’s not a struggle anymore. Those are all breakthroughs.

Selah people' and friends no matter what you’ve been facing, no matter how impossible things look, know this: the God of the breakthrough wants to visit your house. Get ready! Look for His favor and goodness. Remember, God rewards the people who seek after Him. So keep expecting, keep believing because the God of the breakthrough is ready to overwhelm you with His goodness today!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father in heaven, today I am expecting Your goodness. I am looking for Your favor. I’m trusting that You, the God of the breakthrough, are working mightily on my behalf. Help me to live a life pleasing to You as I wait for Your hand to move mightily in my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

October 27, 2010 ~ He Wants Us to Thrive

Spock was not the only one to encourage us to live long and prosper.


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers”

3 John 1:2

TODAY’S WORD:

Many people today are living in “survival mode.” If they can just make it through the day, they’ve accomplished their goal. And, there are times when circumstances can seem overwhelming. There are seasons that are more difficult than others. But God doesn’t want us to just survive, He wants us to thrive. He wants us to prosper in all things.

Selah people' and friends one definition of the word “thrive” means “to realize a goal despite circumstances.” That means you can prosper in all things no matter what is going on around you. You don’t have to settle for an average year; you can have an extraordinary year. You may be planning on just getting by, but God is planning on abundance. He’s planning on overflow. It’s time to get into agreement with God. It’s time to walk in His ways. It’s time see your dreams come to pass. It’s time to thrive because God has a plan for you to prosper in every area of your life!


OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for the gift of today. I choose to cast my cares on You knowing that because You care about me, You care for me. Help me to see the good plan You have for me so that I can thrive the way You intended. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

October 26, 2010 ~ Choose Joy!


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it”

Psalm 118:24

TODAY’S WORD:

Happiness isn’t just a random feeling; happiness is a choice. It’s a decision that we have to make by an act of our will. All throughout life, you’re going to have plenty of opportunities to lose your joy. We all go through disappointments. We all have times when things don’t go our way. It’s very easy to let the circumstances of life make us sour and dejected until we just go through the motions of day-to-day living. But if you’re going to live in victory, if you’re going to thrive the way God intends, you’ve got to make the decision that you’re going to enjoy your life. You’ve got to choose to be happy in spite of your circumstances, every single day.

Selah people' and friends today, remember, this is the day that the Lord has made! Choose to rejoice and be glad in it! As you choose joy, you are tapping into His strength which will carry you through to victory all the days of your life!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for another day to bless and serve You. I choose to rejoice today no matter what comes my way. Thank You for Your peace and strength to overcome in every area of my life! In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Monday, October 25, 2010

October 25, 2010 ~ Are You Spiritual Enough to Have an Ear to Hear?

Are we listening to God?

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.”

Revelation 3:13

TODAY'S WORD:

Did you hear what Jesus said to the Philadelphia Church? Do you have an ear to hear it? It takes a spiritual ear to hear, and being spiritual does not just mean that you have a religious, so called “Christian” spirit.

“And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.” (Isaiah 11:2-5)


This scripture above is a prophesy about Jesus, and it shows how Jesus is spiritual. It takes the “fear of the LORD” and it takes living right and being faithful. To be spiritual we must follow in the footsteps of the Savior.


If you are spiritual, with an ear to hear, you also have the ability to restore another to full salvation from sin, while being able to avoid the same temptations that previously took the one you have restored.

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1)

If we read what Jesus had previously said to Philadelphia. Does it make sense? Is there a witness to your soul of the truth of what Jesus has to say, and the scriptures that agree with what he has to say? Or – is it hidden from you?

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
1 Corinthians 2:9-14

Spiritually discerned. This is important because the key warning to Philadelphia is “Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” If we do not know how to discern spiritually, we will be led away by a false “spiritual” person, in the form of a popular religious preacher or leader.

“And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us. Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”
1 John 3:24 – 4:3

Selah people' and friends has Jesus come to live in YOUR flesh? Does he reign on your heart? Are you his faithful and obedient servant? If not, you already are under the influence of a false spirit, and that false spirit could be the influence of a false religious leader, or it may just be your own personal opinion. It really does not matter if Jesus is not King of kings and Lord of lords in your heart.

For the sixth, and second to last time he states again: “do you have an ear to hear spiritual things?” When the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart need, others may not have a clue that it is happening, but Jesus is completely aware and he is watching what you are doing with it. Do you have a heart to hear and obediently act upon what God has shown you? If you do, eventually others will know. Are you ashamed that they would know? I hope not, because then Jesus will be ashamed of you.

How spiritual are you? Can you hear?


OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father you are our King of kings and Lord of lords help us to never forget that. We pray for continued spiritual growth as we continue our walk with you. Help us to stay in your word and to not allow our flesh nor immature minds to stand between us and our eternal salvation. We remember that you give us all that we need to be all that we can be. We pray this prayer humbly in Jesus name."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Saturday, October 23, 2010

October 23, 2010 ~ Think On These Things


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things”

Philippians 4:8

TODAY’S WORD:

God wants you to be blessed in every area of your life. The Bible says that Jesus came so that you and I could have life more abundantly, but it all starts in your thinking. That’s why the scripture tells us very clearly what we should be thinking about — things that are noble, right, lovely, pure and praiseworthy. In other words, when a thought comes to your mind that you’re never going to be successful, replace it by saying, “Father, You said in Proverbs that if I would put You first, You would crown my efforts with success. You said in the Psalms that You surround me with favor like a shield. You said in Deuteronomy that Your blessings would chase me down and overtake me!” That’s how you take every thought captive, one thought at a time!

Selah people' and friends today, refuse to allow any negative thoughts to take up space in your mind. Stay on the offensive and choose to think on the right things. Fill your heart and mind with the Word of God and open the door for His hand of blessing in every area of your life!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for Your truth which sets me free. I choose to meditate on Your goodness and think on the right things. Direct my heart and mind toward what is pure and lovely. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."


Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Thursday, October 21, 2010

October 21, 2010 ~ He Gives Good Gifts...

God's gifts are always the best choice!


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father...”

James 1:17


TODAY’S WORD:

October 21st has two special meanings too me...1st it is my brother Matthew's birthday and 2nd it marks the 16 year anniversary of my sobriety. I am thankful for being blessed with such a wonderful brother and for the life God has allowed me to live, learn and prosper in. God has so many good and perfect gifts in store for you as well. Not only does He offer eternal life through His Son, Jesus, but the Bible is filled with His generous and abundant promises in this life. He wants to bless you with provision and supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. He wants to pour out His abundant favor on you and cause everything you touch to prosper. He wants to bless you with spiritual gifts and make you strong in your inner man. He wants you to enjoy your job and be proud of your work each day.

These are all gifts from God.

Selah people' and friends every good gift from God is meant to draw us closer to Him. Often times, people have an idea about God based on past experiences. But today, I encourage you to let go of old mindsets and see God according to His Word. He is good and faithful, and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him! Seek Him today and experience the life of blessing He has in store for you!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father in heaven, thank You for Your good and perfect gifts. I open my heart to You today and ask that You help me see Your goodness so that I can know You more. Fill me with Your peace and joy as I follow You all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

October 20, 2010 ~ Written On Your Heart


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“They demonstrate that God’s law is written on their hearts...”

Romans 2:15

TODAY’S WORD:

In the Old Testament, God’s commands were written on stone tablets and kept in the tabernacle. Today, when we accept Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior, we become His temple.

He lives in us and engraves His promises and commands in our hearts.


How can you be sure of this? This verse goes on to say that it’s because your conscience, or inner man, has a stronger knowing of what is right and what is wrong; what you should and shouldn’t do. Because you are drawn to follow the Word of God, you know that the Spirit of God is on the inside of you guiding and directing you. Every time you follow His leading, your ability to hear and know Him is strengthened. But if you choose to bypass that prompting on the inside, your heart can become hard which will affect your ability to hear Him in the future.

Selah people' and friends make the decision today to demonstrate that God’s law is written on your heart by quickly obeying His leading. As you do, He’ll guide you down the path of blessing, and you’ll experience the abundant life He has in store for you!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for making Your home in me and for guiding me down the path of peace and blessing. Help me to clearly follow Your promptings all the days of my life so I can honor You in all I do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."


Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

October 19th, 2010 ~ Observe to do...

When God calls you to something...run don't walk!


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go”

Joshua 1:7

TODAY’S WORD:

The Bible has a lot to say about prosperity. Prosperity simply means thriving, vibrant and alive. It’s a picture of vitality. When you are prosperous, you have more than enough to give to others. That means more peace, more grace, more hope, more love.

The key to receiving all these spiritual blessings is found in today’s verse. When we are careful to “observe to do” what God has commanded, we are setting ourselves up for success. We are engaging in His system of doing things; and when we do things God’s way, we get God’s results!

Selah people' and friends today, choose to “observe to do” what God has commanded. Invite Him to search your heart and mind and remove anything that is displeasing to Him. Put Him first because when you make Him your number one priority, you are setting yourself up to prosper wherever you go.

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your precious Word which is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I choose to put You first place in every area of my life. I submit myself to Your Word that I may follow You and be blessed in everything I do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Monday, October 18, 2010

Video: Lifehouse Everything Drama



Link to Video:
http://cloudvideos.tangle.com/942e74d6bc4fbb6254eab36e8e2a7146.flv

Selah people' and friends,

I watched this video again today and my mind came flooding back with emotion from the drama shared at Grantham school where my daughter's Christian club sponsored an event where a group of kids did an outstanding job with this same drama. What or who is attacking you and or your children today?

Is Christ in your life helping you through the storms? He can be if you ask Him in. May you be blessed this week and remember always that Jesus has your back in all things!

In Christ service,
Patrick



Rev Patrick Muston, Senior Pastor

Selah Christian Church
Four Oaks, NC
http://selahchurch.com
Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

October 18, 2010 ~ Praise Without End...


Today's Scripture:

"I will praise you every day: I will praise you forever and ever. The Lord is Great and worthy of our praise; No one can understand how great He is."

Psalm 145: 2-3

Today's Word:

Creation praises God. Angels praise God. Infants praise God. One day every knee will bow as the whole world praises God. Scripture is filled with examples of praise, especially throughout the book of Psalms. Every one of those verses has a lesson to teach about honoring the Lord of the universe. The specific portions of Psalm 145 is significant because it is like a mini-primer on praise. It tells the who, what, when, where, and why of giving God glory. While at ECU we learned about this technique used in newspaper writing where all the important information should be shared clearly at the beginning or people will not be compelled to read the rest.

You see my friends the Who in the text explains God is the One most worthy of your praise. He is so deserving that it is impossible to run out of reasons for praising him. You can praise God for his gifts, but praise is broader that thanksgiving. What praise does is honor God for who He is, not just what He does. By honoring God through your prayers and actions you bless him, giving him pleasure. This alone is a great reason Why you should praise God ( along with the fact he deserves it!). Praise benefits the one giving it, as well as the one receiving it. Praise cultivates contentment by helping you develop a right view of God and yourself.

Selah people' and friends as for When to praise God, Psalm 145 tells you that it is appropriate to praise God every day. The Psalm says that you will praise God forever, which means your praises will reach beyond the borders of this earth right into your eternal home in heaven. That's a Where that you and I can look forward to.

Our Prayer For Today:

"Heavenly Father the Hebrew word for praising God means "to celebrate His perfections." May we put what we have learned into practice by taking the time today to praise and celebrate His perfections right now and not wait another minute."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Sunday, October 17, 2010

October 17, 2010 ~ Abundant Life Today



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly”

John 10:10

TODAY’S WORD:

Are you living the abundant life Jesus came to give? I’m not talking about living in the fanciest house or driving the newest car. No, His promise of abundant life goes way beyond material things that this world offers. Abundant life means “life to the full.” That means no matter what is going on around you, you can partake of the full blessings of God. You can have peace in the midst of a storm. You can have joy when things are uncertain. You can have hope when circumstances seem hopeless.
Selah people' and friends a lot of times it’s easy, as believers, to look at that verse and think, “God is going to give me abundant life someday.” But the truth is that God wants you to have abundant life TODAY!

Brothers and sisters don’t waste another second living in mediocrity or settling for less than God’s best. Receive His blessings by faith today. Receive His hope, joy, strength and favor. Declare that you are living the abundant life today and every day!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus so that I can have eternal life. I know that You want the best for me. Help me to keep my heart and mind focused on You so that I can walk in Your ways all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Friday, October 15, 2010

October 15, 2010 ~ By His Grace



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out His special favor on me — and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by His grace”

1 Corinthians 15:10

TODAY’S WORD:

In this day and age, many people are filled with worry about their future. They live stressed out, wondering, “What’s going to happen if I get laid off?” “How am I going to handle it if my loved one doesn’t make it?” Or, “My parents are getting older. How can I take care of them and my own family as well?” Here is the answer: God’s grace is going to be there at every stage of your life to help you do whatever you need to do.

See, God’s grace is what saves us, but that’s not all. Grace is God’s enabling power. His grace will give you the strength, wisdom and favor to accomplish what you could not normally accomplish on your own.

His grace is sufficient for whatever you need in your future.


Selah people' and friends if you’re in a difficult marriage or relationship, if you’re raising a child that’s hard, if you’re facing a sickness, one thing you can count on is that the grace of God will be there. Receive His grace today, by faith, and let Him empower you to walk through that difficulty into a place of supernatural victory in Jesus’ name!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for Your grace that is at work in my life. Thank You for empowering me every day to fulfill Your purposes. Keep me close to You and teach me to trust as I walk with You one day at a time. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Thursday, October 14, 2010

October 14, 2010 ~ Grace for Today

Just as we pray the Lord's Prayer...
He will provide for our daily needs.


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Give us this day our daily bread”

Matthew 6:11

TODAY’S WORD:

God has grace in store for you every single day. Grace is His supernatural empowerment, His unmerited favor on your life. All throughout scripture, we see God giving daily grace, empowerment and provision to His people. For example, when the people of Israel were in the wilderness headed toward their Promised Land, God gave them manna each morning to eat. It would just appear on the ground. But He specifically instructed them to gather up only enough for one day’s supply. In fact, if they got more than that, it wouldn’t last. It would spoil. They were learning to trust God’s grace every single day.

Selah people' and friends in the same way, God doesn’t give us grace for a year at a time or even a month at a time. No, every twenty-four hours God has a fresh new supply of grace, favor, wisdom and forgiveness. How are you going to make it through the seasons of your life? One day at a time. Look for His grace today. Look for His provision today. Look for His hand of favor and blessing today because He promises to supply everything you need for today.

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for Your grace and favor on my life today. I know that You have a fresh supply of everything that I need — physically, spiritually and emotionally — today. Help me to trust You more as I seek Your face. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

October 13, 2010 ~ Grace and Peace to You



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace”

2 Thessalonians 1:2

TODAY’S WORD:

I'd like for us again to look at God's grace as well as peace. You see my friends grace and peace are such powerful forces in the life of the believer. Grace empowers us and peace directs us. It’s like this: grace is the gas and peace is the navigation system. You need both to reach your destination.

The Bible tells us that we are saved by God’s grace through faith. We don’t deserve it and can’t earn His grace and forgiveness, but He gives it to us anyway. Grace opens the door to salvation, but it doesn’t stop there. His grace is supernatural empowerment to live the life God has called us to here on earth.

Peace is every bit as powerful. It’s not just a feeling; it’s a state of being. Peace literally means “to set at one again.” When we are at one with the Father in thought, word and deed, we can physically feel it on the inside.

We are settled internally. And nothing external can move us from our position of peace.


Selah people' and friends today, receive His grace and peace and let them carry you into the destiny He has ordained for you!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father in heaven, thank You for Your grace and peace at work in my life. I choose to stand in my position of peace by following Your Word. Thank You for guiding me into the life of blessing You have prepared for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com


Tuesday, October 12, 2010

October 12, 2010 ~ Grace Abounds...



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work”

2 Corinthians 9:8

TODAY’S WORD:

What is it that you have need of today? Remember, we serve a God of abundance. Our God is always more than enough. No matter what is on your “plate of life,” God wants to empower you with His grace. I pray for many and just today I had one of my older members who was in an accident driving and early this morning one of my younger members rushed to Pitt hospital with uncertainty. I know regardless of the situation God's grace will be sufficient! May we never forget about God's grace.

One meaning of the word “grace” is God’s good will, loving-kindness and favor. His grace, His good will is what keeps us. His favor strengthens us and causes us to increase. The wonderful thing is that He’s already extending that grace to you right now; all you have to do is open your heart and humbly receive it by faith.

Selah people' and friends notice in this verse that when He pours out His grace on you, you will have all that you need at all times...that’s living in abundance. And when you are living in abundance, you are equipped to pour out that goodness and blessing on those around you. Abundant grace leads to abundant living, and abundant living leads to abundant giving!

Today, receive His grace because it abounds to you!


OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father in heaven, today I humbly come before You. I surrender my heart, my will, mind and emotions to You. I ask that You pour out Your grace on me today and equip me for every good work. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Sunday, October 10, 2010

October 10 , 2010 ~ Receive Grace

Join me as we are promoted and move on up through God's Grace!


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“It is through Him that we have received grace (God’s unmerited favor) and [our] apostleship to promote obedience to the faith and make disciples for His name’s sake among all the nations”

Romans 1:5

TODAY’S WORD:

Do you want to see more of God’s favor and blessing in your life? Receive His grace. Grace is God’s favor, but it’s also His supernatural empowerment. When you have God’s grace and favor, it enables you to accomplish more and be more effective both in your own life and in building His kingdom.

This verse says that God’s grace enables us to promote obedience to the faith and make disciples among all nations. In other words, grace empowers us to live the life God has called us to. Now, maybe you can’t go to all nations today, but you can make a difference in the lives of the people around you. You can “promote faith” by encouraging the people in your life and living as an example of His goodness.

You can “promote faith” by living a life of love and obedience to God’s Word.


Selah people' and friends today, open your heart and thank Him for His grace that empowers you. Let His truth set you free and then enjoy that freedom! Live as an example of His love because you are making a difference in the people around you.

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace, favor and mercy that empowers me to live the life You’ve called me to. I receive Your grace by faith. Help me to stay obedient to Your Word and live as an example of Your love and light. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Friday, October 8, 2010

October 8th, 2010 ~ Press Toward the Promise



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“...Imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised”

Hebrews 6:12

TODAY’S WORD:

Are you facing a challenge today that seems overwhelming? Through faith and patience, God’s Word says that you will see His promises come to pass in your life. Understand that the enemy always fights the hardest when he knows you are closest to your breakthrough. He’d leave you alone if he thought you were going to live in mediocrity. But if you’ll keep pressing toward your promise and following the Word of God, you will get there. Don’t be like the Israelites in the Old Testament who were right next to their promised land when they talked themselves out of it. They said, “There are giants in the land. It’s too difficult.”

Each training session I spend working out at CrossFit MtOlive is similar to life's challenges...we stand and look at the list of our WOD (work out of the day) and at times you think "there is no way we can do that!" You see in the physical we place limitations on the great things we can accomplish. I here the word speaking to us and telling us not to look at the obstacles in our lives today; instead we must lift up our eyes because we serve Almighty God. Instead,

we should follow the example of Abraham who believed God even when his circumstances looked impossible.

Selah people' and friends remember, God rewards the people who seek after Him. Stand in faith and keep believing because God will take you places that you never dreamed. My good friend Beverly Westbrook reminded me and my children once that we all can choose to have a good day or a bad day, she said she chooses to have a good day. Amen to that Beverly! As you press toward the promise, you will see His hand of blessing, and you will live in the victory He has prepared for you.

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, I come to You today choosing to believe Your promises. I lift up my eyes to You, ready to receive Your strength. Fill me with Your faith and patience as I press forward into victory! In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Thursday, October 7, 2010

October 7th, 2010 ~ His Grace is Enough




TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness”

2 Corinthians 12:9

TODAY’S WORD:

Many people today wonder if they deserve God’s favor, but do you know what grace is? It’s unmerited favor. It’s kindness from Him that we don’t deserve. Isn’t it wonderful to know we don’t have to earn God’s grace; we simply receive it as a gift?

Selah people' and friends no matter what has happened in your past, you can receive God’s grace and forgiveness and start fresh today. His grace is enough. It’s all you need.

The Scripture says we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.


Today, let grace empower and strengthen you to live the life of victory simply by receiving it and extending it to others. Instead of holding mistakes over other people’s heads, why don’t you hold out favor and forgiveness? As you allow God’s grace to flow through you, His power will increase in you. You’ll see His favor in greater ways as you rise up higher in the life of victory He has prepared for you!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for Your goodness and grace today. I receive Your strength and favor in my life. Help me to extend that grace to others so I can live as an example of Your love in everything I do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."


Rev Patrick Muston, Senior Pastor



Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

October 6th, 2010 ~ We Need to Encounter the Lord

Are you one who longs for what others have?


TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:


Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins.

So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee.

Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.

Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.

Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.

My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.

But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works.

Psalm 73:21-28

TODAY'S WORD:

Growing up I felt like I needed to be cool. All through junior high school and high school I played organized basketball for our school and rec league. And you could tell who the cool kids were on the team based a couple of things: Their shoes and their drink. The cool kids wore Jordans' and drank Gatorade. At the time I wasn’t cool, I didn’t wear Jordans' and I drank water, not in fancy bottle either just the plain water provided by the trainers out of a paper cup. But I must confess at that awkward stage I really cared about what the cool kids thought of me. And I wanted to be just like the cool kids. So, I wanted the things that the cool kids had.

The writer of Psalm 73 also felt like he needed something that somebody else had. In Psalm 73:3, we see that he wanted other people’s wealth. In Psalm 73:4, we see that he wanted other people’s health. And in Psalm 73:5, we see that he wanted other people’s freedom from burdens. As he sums it up in Psalm 73:12, they’re “always carefree, they increase in wealth.” And he wants to be like them. But it’s more than that. In Psalm 73:3, the author tips his hand. He envies them.


Envying combines want with discontent. And we really see that discontent surfacing in the verses following. Psalm 73:13-15. The wicked have something. I want it. And I’m not happy until I have it. This is particularly true for the author of the Psalm because he feels that the wicked don’t deserve good things. By virtue of the fact that they’re bad, they deserve bad things.


He, meanwhile is good. So, he deserves good things.


And like that, wealth, health, and a carefree life turn into things he rightfully deserves. They’re well deserved rewards which he earned. But he doesn’t get them. Instead, they go to the wicked. And so, his heart turns to envy.
And that brings us to Psalm 73:16-17, the pivotal verses in the Psalm. He enters the sanctuary of God. And everything changes. Specifically, 1) his perspective changed in how he saw the wicked. And 2) he saw something better than what the wicked had.

First, the change in perspective. We see in Psalm 73:17-20 that he takes the longer perspective on the wicked. He sees their “final destiny”. He sees how the things that they have, the things he envied, are temporal in nature.

The second change, how he saw something better than what the wicked had, is actually where the bulk of the changed happened, at least if we were to look at the number of words he devotes to describing it. Three verses describe the longer perspective on the wicked, but the remaining eight, Psalm 73:21-28, go to describing what is better than wealth, health, and a carefree life. “Earth has nothing I desire besides you.” “But as for me, it is good to be near God.” In this Psalm, the realization of the sufficiency of God is the result of an encounter with the Lord. It wasn’t because he willed himself to increase His desire for God. It wasn’t because he reminded himself of the Lord’s promises. It wasn’t because he learned an objective truth. It was because of a subjective experience, meeting with God, that he came to truly understand that the Lord is better than what the world has to offer.


We need to encounter the Lord.
Recently, the Lord’s been highlighting a few tools to bring me to a place where I was ready to encounter Him. They’re no guarantees to having an encounter with Him though. Whether He shows up or not, well, that’s up to Him. But these few things have put me in a position to hear from Him when He does show up. I share them now with you.

Read the Bible.
This is a great tool to encounter the Lord. To have a direct relationship with Jesus. It’s been time tested. He’s spoken to people through the written word. And He can still speak to us today through the Bible when working in conjunction with the Holy Spirit in us.
Resolve sin issues.
I went through a desert experience where I felt like didn’t hear from or experience God. After receiving some guidance, I came to realize that I had a sin issue. The Lord had been telling me to forgive something or someone in my life but I was being disobedient. I knew what I was supposed to do but I always figured that the time for action was sometime later. Just not now. It wasn’t until much later that I finally realized the connection between it and my desert experience. I have been growing by leaps and bounds ever since I listened to the Lord and took action as He commanded.
Fast.
For me, fasting has been a way to reflect my need for the Lord. Basically, whenever I feel the hunger pangs, I use that then to drive me to prayer, asking the Lord two things: To give me a greater hunger for Him and to know that only He can satisfy me. There are a ton of variations of this that don’t involve food if that’s an issue for you. Regardless of what is fasted, the basic premise is the same: Foregoing something and weaning our dependency on it to greater highlight our need for and dependency on the Lord.
Selah people' and friends let’s continue to make ourselves available to Him. Let us not give up that pursuit of Him because He will show up eventually.

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"The Lord is near. He is at hand. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Father we come with great anticipation that you will continue to move in our lives and the expectation of an encounter with you. May you help each of us to put aside things of the earth and place you first and declare you Lord of all."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

October 5th, 2010 ~ FINDING JOY!



Selah people' and friends if you ever need a gentle reminder to remember what's most important in life...watch this beautiful 3 minute movie.

I had this email from Mac Anderson with SimpleTruths.com and each time I watch it...I feel inspired! Hope you will, too!

Your brother in Christ,
Patrick

Monday, October 4, 2010

October 4, 2010 ~ When Weeds Spring Up

"Is the enemy sowing weeds amongst your wheat?"



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Jesus told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away’ ”

Matthew 13:24

TODAY’S WORD:

Jesus is telling a parable in Matthew 13 about a man who went out to his field and planted wheat in the ground. He sowed good seed. This represents that he was doing the right thing, honoring God with his life, and being good to others. But while he slept, an enemy came in and planted weeds. The man didn’t know what had happened. He was expecting to have a great harvest; after all, he did all the right things. But the weeds sprang up among his wheat.


Sometimes, things happen in life. Weeds spring up that we didn’t have anything to do with.

The key is to keep the right attitude and keep focusing on the goodness of God. When these unexpected challenges happen, we can say, “It’s just another weed. I didn’t sow it. I don’t have to reap it.” Then we can keep the door open for God to move on our behalf.

Selah people' and friends today, don’t let the weeds take root. Don’t let discouragement creep in. Instead, lift up your eyes of faith to what your father God can do for you. Keep believing, keep praying, and keep hoping because your harvest is on the way!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for the truth of Your Word which sets me free. Help me to keep my heart and mind focused on You. Give me Your peace as I focus on the harvest that You have for my future. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com


Sunday, October 3, 2010

October 3, 2010 ~ Don’t Be Surprised

Be ready at all times. You never know when trials may hit...



TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed”

1 Peter 4:12–13

TODAY’S WORD:

It’s one thing to know that you’re going into a challenging season. You get prepared for it. You get mentally ready. But what about the difficulties that we don’t see coming? The unexpected crisis that catches us off-guard? As I watched some football this weekend and witnessed some quarterbacks being blindsided I had flashbacks of my playing days. Those hits that catch you off guard when at the last moment I could hear breathing, grunting or just footsteps right before the big impact. Sometimes in life, these surprises just like those collisions on the field can seem so overwhelming that it almost knocks the wind right out of us.

Selah people' and friends the Scripture says that we shouldn’t be surprised by fiery trials. That’s because the forces of darkness would not be fighting against you if they didn’t know that God has something amazing in your future! Sometimes, those unexpected difficulties are just a sign that you’re on the right track. It’s always darkest just before the dawn appears. The enemy always fights the hardest when you are closest to your breakthrough.

The key is to stay the course and keep fighting the good fight of faith.

Keep your joy and keep declaring God’s Word over your future. God has promised that you will overcome every obstacle. You will defeat every enemy, and right now, I declare that you will fulfill your destiny in Jesus’ name!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Father God, thank You for walking with me in every season of life. Today, I cast all of my cares on You. I cast all of my difficulties, all of my questions, and all of my concerns. Thank You for working all things out for my good. In Jesus’ Name. Amen."

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Saturday, October 2, 2010

October 2, 2010 ~ Video: 99 Balloons...




As we remember the life of Eliot may we be thankful for each day which is a gift from God.


Today's Scripture:

"God Gives. God Takes. God's name ever be blessed."

Job 1:21

Eliot was born with an undeveloped lung, a heart with a hole in it and DNA that placed faulty information into each and every cell of his body. However, that could not stop the living God from proclaiming Himself through this boy who never uttered a word.

Selah people' and friends in the midst of heartbreaking tragedy, the Mooney family found the presence of God strengthening, comforting, and guiding them. Their story reminds us to seek God and endure our struggles rather than blame Him for our hardships.

In Christ service,

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com

Friday, October 1, 2010

October 1, 2010 ~ Seeing the Dream Come to Pass...

Hold on to your dreams and fight for them...

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE:

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

1 Timothy 6:12

TODAY’S WORD:

One of the keys to seeing your dreams come to pass is to see them come to pass in your mind’s eye first. One of the greatest baseball players of our time told me that all through the day he sees himself hitting the ball. Before he gets up to the plate, he visualizes getting on base. He has this picture of himself succeeding. It’s gotten deep down on the inside and now he’s moving toward it.

Selah people' and friends of course, it takes more than just visualization to see our dreams come to pass. It takes obedience; it takes prayer, and it has to be a part of God’s plan for our lives. But what I’m saying is that if you’ll keep the right pictures in your imagination, seeing yourself rising higher, seeing yourself healthy and whole, that’s going to get deep down on the inside and set the course for your life.

When your mind is in agreement with God’s Word, it will help guide you toward your destiny.



You will have a supernatural strength and power to see those dreams and desires come to pass in your life!

OUR PRAYER FOR TODAY:

"Heavenly Father, today I submit my dreams, desires and thoughts to You. Use my imagination for Your purposes. Help me to see the dreams You’ve placed within me coming to pass. Help me to see myself rising higher in every area and bring You glory in everything I do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen"

Listen to our sermon message each week via our Selah media website:
http://selahmedia.tripod.com

Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com