Raise The Praise Issue June 14, 2020

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RAISE THE PRAISE CHURCH INFORMATION

BE A WORKING ministry CORNER LEADER Solomon was a multitalented individual. He was a builder, a leader, a manager, a decision maker, a goal setter, and much more. He was wise. He modeled the attributes of one who could maintain morale and motivate the masses. He built a huge fortune and ruled a mighty kingdom. Not only was the Teacher wise, but also he imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true. The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one Shepherd. (Eccl. 12:9–11) As we reflect on Solomon’s life, however, we are struck with an awesome truth. All that he had has since vanished. His mighty fleet, his great herds, his glorious temple, his great wealth, his beautiful home, and his kingdom are gone. But that which he taught remains.

If leaders are wise, they will glean a great lesson from this. There is much they can do—most of which will decay and vanish with the coming of tomorrow.

But what they teach and build into the lives of people will last, especially if their vision is strong enough to project itself beyond the immediate.

And, if leaders understand the necessity of teaching those they instruct to be teachers of others, others in turn will continue to repeat the process.

This was the genius of the apostle Paul. He summarizes his vision: “The things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Tim. 2:2).

In this passage, Paul set forth his aim. He was committed to equipping laborers who could carry on the ministry that God had entrusted to him— the ministry of evangelizing the lost, establishing the saved, equipping spiritually qualified laborers for the harvest, and training competent leaders to carry on the ministry when he eventually would pass from the scene.

In the chapters of this book, we have discussed many things that a Christian leader should do. But what is the objective of all these things?

These attributes and objectives of an effective leader are not ends in themselves. They are tools for accomplishing the task. This chapter presents the goal of Christian leadership—multiplying laborers for the vast and overripe harvest. Unless people are won to Christ, there is no one to establish in the faith. But if a leader aims his personal ministry primarily at evangelizing the lost, he will accomplish only what one person can do. If he aims his ministry at multiplying laborers, he will see what a host of competent, trained, motivated men and women can accomplish.

THE LEADER AS LABORER Does that mean leaders should not evangelize the lost or establish the saved? Of course not. They themselves are laborers in the harvest and must never forget that. If they quit laboring in the harvest, they will lose their prime teaching tool—setting an example for others to follow. Let us be very clear on this point—leaders are laborers all the days of their lives.

When the Bible refers to a laborer, what is it describing? For a partial answer to that question, we can look at a statement of Jesus.

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (Matt. 9:36–38) A laborer is one who is directly related to the harvest. We recognize there are laborers of many kinds in the work of the church, but for our purposes we will concentrate our attention on this one kind—the harvest worker.

The word that Jesus used is the word ergatees, which means “a farmer, one who works in the field.” This truth is hard for some Christian leaders to accept. They visualize themselves at the other end of the spectrum. Rather than being out in the hot, dusty field doing the work of field hands, they see themselves behind huge desks in air-conditioned offices, jotting off memos to others that labor. But the Bible makes no provision for this kind of leader. The seventy were laborers. The apostles were laborers. Jesus Himself was a laborer. “As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4). Paul told Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15).

Jesus led His team into a vast, overripe harvest. “After Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in the towns of Galilee” (Matt. 11:1). from the pulpit continued ON PAGE 3

Department of Workforce Development and Community Education 1700 Spartan Drive Building K Room 100.11 Elgin Il 60120 (847) 214-7123 847.214.6993 | * kquist@elgin.edu

Creating a Healthy Home and Habits

Sept 15, 6:30-7:30 PM $49 Home safety and good habits are important for everyone, but special care should be given to the home with an Alzheimer’s patient present. This course will describe how to evaluate your home and habits focusing on physical as well as mental considerations for both you and your loved one.

Legal Considerations for the Senior and their Caregiver

Sept 22 6:30-7:30 PM $49 In the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease, a senior and their family may be in denial, chalking up memory lapses and personality changes to “just getting older.” However, we shouldn’t bury our heads in the sand. The earlier that Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed, the more time the person and family have to begin putting financial, legal and care planning in place. This course will focus on the importance of naming a healthcare representative, the details of guardianship as well as the different kinds of lawyers who can assist with legal matters.

Diagnosing Your Doctor Through Dialogue

Sept 29- Oct 13 6:30-7:30 PM $149 Doctors are one important agent through which scientific understanding is expressed, but medicine is more than the sum of our knowledge about disease. Medicine concerns the experiences, feelings, and interpretations of human beings in often extraordinary moments of fear, anxiety, and doubt. As patients, we should take more action in selecting a doctor. This course will guide you through the process of researching the doctor, finding a good fit for you, and creating a partnership with your doctor.

KARIN QUIST Department of Workforce Development and Continuing Ed 1700 Spartan Drive | Building K Room 100.11 | Elgin IL 60123 | 847.214.7123 | 847.214.6993 | kquist@elgin.edu

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RAISE THE PRAISE CHURCH INFORMATION one faith fellowship “nuggets for the soul”

“The Spirit of Thankfulness”

dr. tonya lewis

Thank you! Thank you!

Thank you! Lord! We can never say thank you too much and too often. Psalm 50:14-Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God and keep the vows you made to the Most High.

Because of the self-centered

nature of people, we are quicker to receive and far less often to say thank you for what we have been given. Too often we spend our time asking and begging through the vehicle of prayer for things we have need of and things we desire rather than reflecting on the blessings already given to us. While there is nothing wrong with praying and we should, in asking the Lord and we should, however, we should more so have the “attitude of gratitude” for all He has already done for us.

His grace, love, commitment, and faithfulness are expressed every second in our life. He never falls short of who He is and what He has committed to do for us, His precious Sons and Daughters. Therefore, we

should spend more time saying thank you Lord, thank you Lord, thank you Lord, expressing our appreciation to our Faithful Father! If, for the rest of our life, only these three words are spoken from our heart and mouth, we still would not be able to thank Daddy-God enough for being who and what He has been in our life. Because of His precious promises in His word to continue to be faithful to His faithful children, we really don’t have to spend time asking and begging as though we have an oppressor for a Father.

Psalm 107: 1-Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.

2-Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others He has redeemed you from your enemies. 21-Let them praise the LORD for His great love and for the wonderful things He has done for them. 22-Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and sing joyfully about His glorious acts. Our lives can be lived in a more peaceful state of contentment if we

to do the same. Paul says we are laborers together with God (1 Cor. 3:9). He wrote to the Thessalonians about their work of faith and labor of love (1 Thess. 1:3). He called Epaphroditus his brother and fellow worker (Phil. 2:25). He admonished the church: “Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those

who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you” (1 Thess. 5:12). He called elders “those whose work is preaching and teaching” (1 Tim. 5:17). He reminded the Colossians of Epaphras who was “always wrestling in prayer for you” (Col. 4:12). We are called to be laborers.

nuggets cont.on page 10

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from the pulpit continued from PAGE 2 Paul did the same. “As his custom was, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures” (Acts 17:2).

Leaders who would follow the example of Christ and of the disciples whom He selected and trained must labor and train others

We gather from all this that witnessing is work, discipling i s w or k , t r a i n i n g l a b ore r s is work, leadership is work, preaching is work, and praying is work. All of these are directly related to the plentiful harvest.

THE LEADER AS EQUIPPER Leaders are laborers, first, last,

and always. But more than that, they are laborers plus. For they are laborers who also train others to labor. Not only are they skilled in winning the lost and building up the saved, but they also know how to equip others to do the same. from the pulpit continued ON PAGE 5

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RAISE THE PRAISE CHURCH INFORMATION SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

Receive Wisdom’s Gifts Devotional Reading • Job 28:12–28 Bible Background • Job 1; 42; Proverbs 8 WISDOM IN PROVERBS Unit 1: Wisdom in Proverbs LESSONS 1-4 Lesson Aims

1. Describe the blessings of godly wisdom.

june 21, 2020 Bible Study Guide

Focal verses: NIV Proverbs 8:8–14, 17–21 8 All the words of my mouth are just;none of them is crooked or perverse.

9 To the discerning all of them are right; they are upright to those who have found knowledge.

10 Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice

gold, 11 for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

12 “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion.

13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil;I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

14 Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power.”

17 “I love those who love me,and those who seek me find me.

18 With me are riches and honor,enduring wealth and prosperity.

19 My fruit is better than fine gold;what I yield surpasses choice silver.

20 I walk in the way of righteousness,along the paths of justice, 21 bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love meand making their treasuries full.”

Introduction A. Dispersal of Wealth My father passed away several years ago, my mother in December of 2015, and my older sister in the summer of 2017. My sister’s passing left me to serve as executor of my parents’ estate. My wife and I handled the sale of Dad and Mom’s house, which closed title in May of 2018. About a month later, we closed the estate by distributing to the designated family members the money that remained in Mom’s account.

While I appreciate what Dad and Mom were able to do to provide for their children financially, that is not the most valuable legacy that they left us.

Both of them were faithful Christians who regularly took us to Sunday school and church. They taught us the wisdom that the book of Proverbs calls its readers to obtain and cherish; they were conscientious of the importance of laying up treasures in Heaven.

My parents stewarded both physical and spiritual wealth well. However, others are not so wise. Many are extraordinarily rich in the things that will not last and exceedingly poor in eternal wealth. How do we invest in the riches that come only through the pursuit of godly wisdom?

B. Lesson Context Wisdom was highly valued in the ancient Near East. Most nations had wise men who held high rank in government because of their skill (examples: Exodus 7:11; 1 Kings 4:30, 31, 34; Jeremiah 18:18; Daniel 1:19, 20). The Old Testament mentions wise women as well (examples: 2 Samuel 14:2; 20:16). The people who filled these positions in government and society were considered exceptional

in wisdom.

Wisdom such as that found within the book of Proverbs is not limited to a specialized class of people. It is intended for everyone to live by and practice, regardless of their social status. Proverbs describes four animals that are said to be “extremely wise” (Proverbs 30:24–28). These are not exceedingly brainy creatures, but they do have skills in practical areas of living that help them survive and thrive. The wisdom God has provided in Scripture helps us do the same. Thus, wisdom is far more than intellectual prowess.

This practical knowledge guides as we navigate through life in this broken, sinful world—by instructing us how to act, speak, and respond in a wide variety of situations.

To d ay ’s l e s s o n f r o m P r ove r b s continues the appeal to follow the path of wisdom that is grounded in the fear of the Lord. The principles are found in the introductory nine chapters of the book (see Lesson Context in lesson 1). In these chapters, Wisdom is personified thrice as a woman and pictured as making her own appeal (see Proverbs 1:20–22 and commentary on lesson 1; 8:4–36, partially included in today’s lesson text; 9:4–6 and commentary on lesson 4). Wisdom’s foil is the seductive woman called Folly, whose tempting words lead to disaster.

Wisdom is described again as calling out and raising her voice (Proverbs 8:1; see 1:22–33). And as was the case in Proverbs 1:21, Wisdom is positioned at prominent, public locations so that her cry cannot be missed (8:2, 3).

I. Wisdom’s Words (Proverbs 8:8–14)

2. Explain why the benefits of godly wisdom far outweigh those associated with material wealth.

3. Write a prayer on behalf of someone that godly wisdom will guide his or her lifestyle.

Key Verse: Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious

A. Based on Truth (vv. 8, 9) 8. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse.

Wisdom has previously described her words as “trustworthy,” “right,” and “true” (Proverbs 8:6, 7). Furthermore, “[Wisdom’s] lips detest wickedness” (8:7). A similar declaration occurs in the present verse. The claim is comprehensive; all of Wisdom’s words are grounded in what is just. Crooked is a synonym for perverse (compare Job 5:13; 2 Samuel 22:27). The rightness of everything Wisdom says excludes any falseness, even from merely twisting the truth or omitting key details.

9. To the discerning all of them are right; they are upright to those who have found knowledge.

Though some assume that gaining wisdom is a complicated, high-level pursuit, Wisdom asserts that her ways are right to those who are discerning. Wisdom’s counsel is also right in her straightforward goals.

There is no hidden agenda or anything to be ashamed of when following Wisdom. There is no fine print to entrap someone later.

Words that are upright appeal to those who are guided by understanding and knowledge—the kind of knowledge that begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). Such individuals see no need to debate the worth or value of these words; they make perfect sense.

The only appropriate response to them is obedience.

B. Better Than Riches (vv. 10, 11) 10, 11a. Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, Wisdom presents herself as the first of two choices facing a person. The second choice is the best material this world has to offer, represented by the precious metals silver and choice gold (implying gold of the finest quality; compare Psalm 19:9, 10) and the costly jewels rubies (compare Proverbs 3:13–15).

The offer of such abundant wealth would be hard to refuse. Yet wisdom possesses more lasting value and produces far more genuine pleasure and enjoyment than anything the world

has to offer (see Job 28).

What Do You Think?

What steps can we take to ensure that our words live up to the standard of Proverbs 8:8?

Digging Deeper How might this verse speak to the concept of a “little white lie”?

11b. and nothing you desire can compare with her.

This is perhaps the boldest statement in today’s lesson text. Though the kind and amount of things people owned was different in biblical times, the desire for stuff, especially valuable stuff, still existed. All this and more amounts to nothing compared to the value of wisdom. This is true even if one were to obtain every desirable thing imaginable (compare Ecclesiastes 2:8–11).

Centuries later, Paul will have much to say to Timothy about the temptations associated with riches. The apostle will counter those who believe that “godliness is a means to financial gain” by declaring that godliness with contentment is itself the great gain (1 Timothy 6:5, 6). Those who set their hearts on obtaining riches are subject to many harmful desires that ultimately destroy them (6:9). In fact, the love of wealth is “a root of all kinds of evil” (6:10). If people desire to be rich, Paul will write, then they should seek to be “rich in good deeds” (6:18). The key questions are these: What do you love?

Do you desire to be rich as God defines the term, or as the world does?

What Do You Think?

What appointments should appear in the schedule of someone committed to grow in wisdom rather than to the pursuit of material wealth?

Digging Deeper What is your reaction to this witticism: “Money is only a means to an end, and when you don’t have it, that’s the end”?

C. Bringing Discernment (vv. 12–14) 12. “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion.

The father has encouraged his

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COLUMNS sunday school continued from page 6 son to practice wisdom by keeping good company and avoiding those who would entice him into sinful practices (Proverbs 1:10; see lesson 1).

Now we learn that Wisdom herself keeps good company.

Prudence speaks of a person who is discerning in making choices, cautiously deciding what is right.

Wisdom also claims to be familiar with discretion (compare Proverbs 1:4; 3:21).

In Proverbs 2:11, discretion is said to “protect” the person who possesses it. The present verse may then be highlighting Wisdom’s ability to provide one with the necessary insight to spot harmful influences or people when they are encountered and take steps to avoid them.

The writer of Hebrews characterizes mature individuals as those who have practiced wisdom so that they can “distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14). This aligns with Wisdom’s words here. Though the wise person will be innocent of evil, he or she must also recognize evil in order to avoid it (Matthew 10:16).

13. “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

The wisdom of demonstrating a healthy fear of the Lord is emphasized throughout the Old Testament (examples: Deuteronomy 6:2; Psalm 128:4; Jeremiah 26:19). The assumption is that a proper reverence and respect for God will result in obeying him (examples: Genesis 22:12; Exodus 20:20). One cannot keep his commands without learning to hate evil (compare Job 28:28; Jeremiah 44:4).

What Do You Think?

What are some tangible ways that we should express our hatred of evil?

Digging Deeper Is it possible that hating evil can become its own misguided form of evil? Why, or why not?

The attitudes cited in this verse are all sins that are part of evil behavior. They each detract from the life of blessing that is the fruit of prioritizing wisdom over material wealth.

Pride and arrogance are used synonymously. This is the only place in the Old Testament where these two words occur together. Pride in particular is condemned because it stands

in the way of the humble heart that the Lord both requires and honors (see Proverbs 6:16– 19; 16:18). Evil behavior and perverse speech are built on pride and arrogance (compare 8:8). Speech that is perverse goes against what the Lord finds pleasing. It is counter to the kind of speech that Paul will state later that followers of Jesus are to demonstrate (Ephesians 4:29).

14. “Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power.”

Wisdom continues to make her case for earning both hearing and heeding from her listeners. The blessings that come with obtaining wisdom contrast sharply with what the Lord and Wisdom both hate (see Proverbs 8:13).

The insight and power of wisdom elsewhere are said to overthrow entire cities (21:22; compare 16:32; Ecclesiastes 7:19).

Temperamental Four centuries before Christ, Greek physician Hippocrates tried to explain why people have differing temperaments. He hypothesized that personality variations are related to internal secretions of one’s body. The four temperaments he identified were caused by an imbalance of blood (a “sanguine” temperament), ye l l o w b i l e ( a “ c h o l e r i c ” temperament), black bile (a “melancholic” temperament), or phlegm (a “phlegmatic” temperament).

Using these ancient terms, a sanguine person is optimistic, active, and social. Choleric individuals are independent, decisive, and goal-oriented.

Melancholics tend to be deep, very traditional, and orderly. Finally, a phlegmatic individual tends to be relaxed and easygoing. Hippocrates suggested that these characteristics were balanced in an ideal personality type, with no one characteristic dominating.

Centuries before Hippocrates, Solomon described godly wisdom as a balance of personality characteristics.

“Wisdom” and “prudence” coexist; “knowledge” and “discretion” work together, as do “insight” and “power”

(Proverbs 8:12–14). Have you found balance in wisdom?

—J. E. II. Wisdom’s Wealth (Proverbs 8:17–21) A. Promised to Seekers (v. 17) 17. “I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.

Wisdom never spurns anyone who truly loves her (compare 1 Samuel 2:30; John 14:21–24). This verse also commends those who seek Wisdom, a challenge that was included in the previous study (Proverbs 2:4, 5 in lesson 2; compare 1 Chronicles 16:11; Matthew 7:7–11). Preferably, the seeking begins early in one’s life so that an individual can gain the maximum benefit from wisdom (compare Ecclesiastes 12:1).

The quest for wisdom is not an impossible, idealistic dream walk. It is very much within our grasp if we turn to God. Our search is governed by our respect for God and his ways.

Our goal is to know God and his ways more fully so that we may better follow them. This is a happy, joyous journey, the lifelong pursuit of godliness.

B. Providing Real Treasure (vv. 18–21) 18a. “With me are riches and honor, Wisdom promises that riches and honor result from obeying her invitation. One is reminded of Solomon’s request for wisdom. God not only granted the king’s request but also gave him much that he had not asked for, including “both wealth and honor” (1 Kings 3:5, 10–14; compare Deuteronomy 8:18).

Some look at the promises of riches and honor that are associated with wisdom as an assurance that material wealth and prosperity will come to anyone who chooses to obey the Lord and live by his wisdom as found in Scripture.

Other verses appear to offer such a guarantee (Proverbs 3:9, 10, 16; 10:22; 22:4).

Like all proverbs, however, caution must be exercised in interpreting these as guaranteed rewards for faithfulness. The proverbs in Scripture express principles that find fullest reward in eternity and do not always result in an easy life. One must not overlook the role that human free will and sin have in impacting how certain proverbs actually play out. For instance, Proverbs 22:6 speaks of a child being well taught and still living in wisdom in old age.

Yet we all know of cases where children went astray in spite of

their parents’ wise teachings.

Or a statement such as “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1) does not describe what happened to Jesus at his trial prior to his crucifixion. He gave such an answer to his opponents, and they still crucified him (see Luke 23:3–32).

These exceptions do not negate the truth found within a given proverb; they simply illustrate that we have to be cautious in expecting an ironclad guarantee in every case. For this reason, we must not be surprised that not everyone who lives a wise and godly life will experience material prosperity or even a perfectly peaceful life. One example of this is Jeremiah.

Though he clearly lived his life in fear of the Lord and therefore wisely, the prophet suffered much in his ministry (examples: Jeremiah 26:8, 9; 38:4–6; 40:1). In contrast, the wicked often live prosperous and seemingly carefree lives (compare Ecclesiastes 7:15; 8:14).

18b. “enduring wealth and prosperity.

If we are ever troubled by circumstances, rest assured that we are not alone. The psalmist wrestled with the same issue and came to understand that material prosperity is only temporary; it ends when the Lord carries out his righteous judgment (Psalm 73:16–20).

Real wealth, found in wisdom, is enduring. Like the treasures in Heaven, wisdom’s wealth cannot decay or be stolen (Matthew 6:19, 20).

19. “My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver.

The comparison with fruit g o e s w e l l w i t h w i s d o m ’s earlier portrayal as being a “tree of life” (Proverbs 3:18).

Wisdom bears worthwhile fruit throughout one’s life a n d p r o v i d e s i n va l u a b l e insights for any age, stage, or circumstance of life. Once again, its reward is compared favorably to precious metals (compare Job 28:12–19; Proverbs 3:13, 14).

It is important when considering the promises of riches and wealth in Proverbs to examine another book that has much to say about wisdom: Job. The man himself is described at the outset as being of exemplary and upright character (Job 1:1). Yet we know the tragedies that befell him in the course of a single day. Though he was wise and praised God through all his trials, he still went through those trials. Wisdom did not

God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Eph. 4:11–12).

A study of the Greek word katartizo, here translated “prepare,” opens up a treasure chest of practical help for the leader who is serious about becoming a wise

master builder, a skilled equipper, a faithful man or woman who is able to teach others. Its shades of meaning are many. Greek scholars tell us that katartizo means “to complete thoroughly, repair, adjust, fit, frame, mend, make perfect, perfectly join together, prepare,

restore, and furnish completely.”

Paul reminded the Ephesians that God had provided them with certain divinely appointed leadership whose job it was to get them ready to do high-quality

What Do You Think?

What opportunities do you have to teach children to distinguish worldly wisdom from godly wisdom?

Digging Deeper How will you pray for the opportunty to do so?

from the pulpit continued from PAGE 3 So we might call them equippers.

An equipper is one who can help disciples become laborers.

The apostle Paul wrote that Christ “gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare

from the pulpit continued ON PAGE 11

save him from the sorrows that Satan visited on him (1:12–2:10). Job experienced an abundance of sorrow, in spite of conventional wisdom that said he would be blessed for his faithfulness (example: 4:7, 8).

Job’s account assists us in maintaining a proper balance when we read promises such as those cited earlier from Proverbs or found elsewhere in Scripture. Jesus spoke of seeking the kingdom of God first; then “all these things” (the material goods that “non-kingdom” people are so preoccupied with) will be provided (Matthew 6:33).

But Jesus was also honest about the persecution that his followers would suffer (5:10, 11) and the cost that accompanies choosing to follow him (Luke 9:23; 14:33).

At such times, the true value of the gifts of enduring wealth that godly wisdom offers will manifest itself.

20. “I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, Wisdom’s ties with what is right have already been established (see Proverbs 8:9), as have her links to what is just (see 2:8, 9).

Whether justice is understood as judging right from wrong or as practicing fair judgment in one’s daily contacts and circumstances, Wisdom feels right at home in the midst of such God-honoring decisions and actions.

21. “bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me and making their treasuries full.”

The word inheritance highlights the “enduring” nature of Wisdom’s wealth (Proverbs 8:18). It is an inheritance that Wisdom bequeaths t o t h o s e w h o s i n c e r e l y, passionately seek her (8:17).

Once again, treasuries can signify the material benefits that accompany living by the counsels of Wisdom (see 15:6; 24:4, where the word is translated “treasure[s]”).

But these are not the primary riches for which Wisdom is to be known and followed. The inheritance Wisdom provides is one that can be passed on to one’s children with the understanding that, if pursued diligently, Wisdom’s treasures will become just as precious and valuable to them.

What Do You Think?

What opportunities do you have to teach children to distinguish worldly wisdom from godly wisdom?

Digging Deeper How will you pray for the opportunty to do so?

A Different Inheritance What happens to our wealth after we die? The usual answer is that it goes to our children.

Some of the world’s wealthiest

sunday school continued on page10

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raise the praise in your teaching ministry EVENING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH

HOLY CHAPEL BAPTIST CHURCH

211 West 59th Street Los Angeles, CA 90003

Phone: (323) 231-2391 Keith B. Williams Senior Pastor

Website: www.ESMBC.ORG

Early Morning Service ................................7:30 & 8:30 A.M. Sunday School ......................................................8:45 A.M. Morning Worship ................................................ 10:00 A.M. Spanish Ministry ................................................... 6:00 P.M. Prayer & Bible Study .....(Wed.) ..... 12:00 Noon / 7:00 P.M.

FIRST ANTIOCH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 8725 South Central Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90002 Phone: (323) 589-2551 REV. GERALD BURGESS SR., PASTOR “KINGDOM BUILDING MINISTRIES” Early Morning Worship ....................................... 8:00 A.M. Sunday School.................................................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship................................................ 11:00 A.M. Mid-Week Prayer ................(Wed) ......................6:30 P.M. Bible Study .........................(Wed.) ......................7:00 P.M.

REV. DR. GEORGE THOMAS, PASTOR 1016 East Rosecrans Avenue Compton, CA 90220 / Phone: (310) 537-3149 Early Morning Worship ................................. 7:30 - 9:30 A.M. Sunday School ....................... 9:30 - 9:45 A.M. & 10:15 A.M. New Member’s Class (Sunday) .............................. 9:45 A.M. Mid-Morning Worship ............................................ 11:15 A.M. Holy Communion (1st Sun.) ........................ 7:30 & 1:15 A.M. Broadcast (KALI 900 AM - SUN.) ................. 2:00 - 3:00 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer & Bible Study (Wed.) ...... 7:00 P.M. - 8:30 P.M.

JUDSON BAPTIST CHURCH 451 East 223rd Street Carson, CA 90745 Office (310) 834-2630 Fax (310) 513-0943 Web: judsonbc.net

Dr. Johnny V. Baylor, Pastor/Teacher Sunday Worship Service :.......................................... 9:30 AM Children’s Church Available: .(Except 5th ) ................ 9:30 AM Speak Life Youth Ministry: (2nd & 4th Sunday) :........ 12:30 PM & (5th Sunday) ........... 9:30 AM Bible Study: (Wed.) .............................................. 12:00 Noon Mid-Week Worship In The Word w/Dr. Baylor (Wed.) 7:00 PM

GREATER EBENEZER.B.C. 5300 S. Denker Avenue. Los Angeles, CA 90062

NEW MT. CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH 402 E. El Segundo Blvd, L.A. Ca, 90061 CHURCH: 310-324-0644 FAX: (310) 769-1287

REV. SONJA DAWSON., Pastor REV. LONNIE DAWSON, SR., Founder (1962-2010) Sundays .................................................. 7:30 & 10:45 A.M. Sunday School ...................................................... 9:30 A.M. Bible Study Monday ......... except.1st Monday ........... 5:00 & 7:00 P.M. Wednesdays .........................................................12 Noon Prayer Meeting .............1st Monday .......................7:00 P.M.

“PRAISE CITY” PRAISES OF ZION B.C. 8222 So. San Pedro St. L.A., CA 90003 Office: (323) 750-1033 Fax: (323) 758-6030

Website: www.wordonnet.com/hardwick

DR. J. BENJAMIN HARDWICK, SR. PASTOR Sunday Broadcast (KJLH 102.3) ……………..…….. 5:30am Sunday Worship Services …...… 6:45am, 10:45am, 5:00pm Sunday School (Educational Hour) …....……………. 9:30am Mid-Week Bible Study (Wednesday) …….…….…… 7:00pm

VICTORY BAPTIST CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES 4802 South McKinley Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90011

Phone: (323) 759-4996 Website www.gembcla.org

PHONE: (323) 231-2424 DR. W. E. JENKINS Pastor

REV. DENON PORTER, Pastor REV., DR. SOLOMON DRAKE, Pastor Emeritus Sunday Worship Services ................. 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Live Streaming @gembcla.org Live Broadcast KALI 900 am .................................11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ....................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Mid-Week Bible Study ... (Tues) 7:00 p.m. & Wed. 7:30 p.m.

Prayer Meeting (Wed) ...................... 12:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Morning Worship ........................................... 9:00 A.M. Sunday School ............................................ 10:45 A.M. Children’s Church (1st Sun.) ....................... 10:00 A.M. Mdwk. Prayer (Wed.) ............................. 12 & 7:00 P.M.

855 778-8548

BAPTIST MINISTERS CONFERENCE of Los Angeles Regular Meeting Location is MT. MORIAH M.B.C. 4265 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles, Ca 90037

every monday at 11:00 AM

Pastor KW Tulloss, President

Is looking for a few good MEN & WOMEN call today 323 418-9161 RAISE THE PRAISE MINISTRY CONNECTION • $90.00 PER MONTH SINGLE SPACE B/W• 50 PAPERS PER WEEK • DISCOUNTED DISPLAY ADS • ONE EDITORIAL PER WEEK • WE WILL BEAT ANY COMPETITOR WITH SAME DISTRIBUTION

• june 14, 2020 - PAGE

COLUMNS

call today to get started 323-210-3658

#7

• june 14, 2020 - PAGE

#8

raise the praise in your teaching ministry CITIZENS OF ZION M.B.C.

12930 South Lime Avenue, Compton, CA 90221 Phone: (310) 638-0536 Email- citizensofzionmbc@gmail.com

MT. ZION MISSIONARY B.C. 1300 EAST 50TH STREET LOS ANGELES, CA 90011 PHONE: (323) 235-2103 REV. EDWARD V. HILL II, PASTOR

www.

DR. B. T. NEWMAN SR. BOBBY T. NEWMAN JR. Pastor Emeritus Pastor citizensofzion.org SERVICE TIMES:

Concentration Period ………................……………….. 9:00 a.m.

Sunday School ……………..........……………………… 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship ………….............…………………… 10:45 a.m Wednesday Prayer ………..….............……. 9:30 a.m.-6:45 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study …….............…… 10:00 a.m.- 7:30 p.m.

Intercessory Prayer ............................................ 9:15 A.M. Morning Worship..................................................9:30 A.M. Sunday School ................................................. 11:30 A.M. Prayer/Bible Study (Tues.) ................................... 7:45 P.M. Prayer (Wed.) ................................................ 12:00 NOON

TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH

MT. TABOR MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 6614 SOUTH WESTERN AVE., LOS ANGELES, CA 90047

2040 W. Jefferson Blvd., - Los Angeles, CA 90018 Phone: (323) 735-0044 Fax: (323) 735-0219 E-Mail: Trinitybaptistc@sbcglobal.net WebSite: Trinitybaptistchurchla.org

REV. ALVIN TUNSTILL, JR., PASTOR

Sunday Worship Service ......................... 7:30 & 10:30 A.M. Church School ....................................................... 9:00 A.M. Broadcast (KJLH) - 102.3) .................................. 9:00 A.M. Prayer & Bible Study (Wed.).............. 12:00 P.M. & 7:00 P.M.

BETHEL M.B.C. OF SOUTH L.A.

EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH

10905 S. Compt., Ave., L.A., CA 90059 Phone: (323) 566-5286/Fax: 566-3224 Email: rapope2014@aol.com REGINALD POPE, DP.TH., PASTOR

4901 S. Avalon Blvd. L.A. Ca 90011

Ph: (323) 232-0398 Fx: (323) 232-7183 Email; ebc4901@sbcglobal.net

DR. KENNETH E. LITTLE, PASTOR Intercessory Prayer.............. 8:30 A.M. Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship..................11:00 A.M.

Worship ............ 8:00 A.M. & 11:00 A.M. Sun. School & Bible Train. .... 9:30 A.M. Evangelism/Prayer (Mon.) ..... 7:00 P.M. Prayer/Bible (Wed.) 11:30 AM/6:30 P.M. Radio KALI 900 AM ..( Sun).. 7:30 A.M.

Night Service . (2d & 4th Sun.) 7:00 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer/Bible Study (Wed) .7:00 P.M.

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH

FAITH COMMUNITY B.C.

8703 Cedar St.,Bellflower, CA 90706

6915 S. Broadway Ave Los Angeles, CA 90003-1846 Phone: (323) 751-3532 (323) 751-7331 REV. DeSHAY L. WARD, SR PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:45 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 11:15 A.M. Prayer & Praise.. (Tues)..... 12:00 P.M. Choir Rehearsal ..(Thurs)..... 4:00 P.M. Bible Class ...(Thurs)............ 7:15 P.M

Ph: (562) 452-4512 www.faithcbc.org https://www.facebook.com/faithcbc

PASTOR A.D. GARTLEY, PASTOR Sunday Worship..................8:30 A.M. Wednesday in the Word .........7:00 P.M.

GRACE TEMPLE BAPTIST CHURCH 7017 Gramercy Place, LA Ca Phone: (323) 971-8192

RODENY J. HOWARD, SR PASTOR/TEACHER Life Groupsl ............................8:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................... 9:30 A.M. Intercessory Prayer..(Wed.)..... 6:30 P.M. Wednesday Worship. (Wed).... 7:00 P.M.

“Family of Purpose” CHURCH Phone: (888) 294-5545 www.FOPLive.com

REV. FREDERICK E. HOWARD Senior Pastor/Teacher Editor/Publisher Sunday School ...................Sunday....................... 9:30 A.M. Worship Celebration...........Sunday..................... 10:45 A.M. Mdwk. Prayer ......................Wednesday................ 7:00 P.M. Choir Rehearsals................Thursday.....................7:00 P.M. LIVE BROADCAST * SUNDAY 11:00 AM FOPLive.com

BEULAH BAPTIST CHURCH 1454 E. 100th St., L.A., CA 90062

www.BeulahBaptistLa.org

REV. TICEY BROWN PASTOR

CHRIST SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH 1471 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 Phone: (562) 599-3421 www.csbclb.org REV.WELTON PLEASANT II, PASTOR Sunday School ........................8:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................... 9:40 A.M. Midweek Prayer (Wed.) ........ 7:00 P.M.

10400 S. San Pedro Street, L.A. Calif. 90003

CHURCH: (323) 564-4983

PHONE: (323) 753-3189 PASTOR (323) 753-3180

Early Worship ....................................................... 8:00 A.M. Sunday School ..................................................... 9:40 A.M. Morning Worship ................................................. 11:00 A.M. Mid-Week Prayer Mtg. (Wed.) ............................... 7:00 P.M.

SOUTHSIDE BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH

GREATER HOLY ST. JOHN, M.B.C.

5536 Morgan Ave. L.A., CA 90011 (323) 581-8488 email: ghsjchurch@sbcglobal.net ELDER J. L. SORRELLS, SR. Pastor/Teacher Sunday.School ............................. 9:30AM Morning Worship ……….........…. 11:00AM Wednesday Prayer/Bible Study … 7:00PM 4th. Saturday YSG Night ……...… 6:00PM

YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

Sunday Morning Services ............ 10 a.m.

Sunday School Members ......... 9:35 a.m.

Bible study: Tues. 7 p.m. & Wed. 12 noon.

Published EVERY Week & you get 50 Papers per week 1 Editorial Article per week

REV. ROBERT L. TAYLOR PASTOR

Sunday School .....................................................9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ............................................... 10:00 A.M. Bible Study (Wednesday) .................................... 7:00 P.M.

GREATER NEW LIGHT B.C.

1154 E. 92nd Street Los Angeles, Ca 90002 Ph: (323) 567-1993 Fx: (323) 567-1407 E-mail: info@GreaterNewLightBC.org DR. PATRICK D. ROSS, PASTOR Sunday Morning Prayer .......... 8:30 A.M. Christian Education Hour ........ 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship Service ....... 11:00 A.M. Prayer& Bible Study. (Wed) .... 7:00 P.M. Saturday Morning Prayer ........ 9:00 A.M.

YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

Sunday Morning Services ............ 10 a.m.

Sunday School Members ......... 9:35 a.m.

Bible study: Tues. 7 p.m. & Wed. 12 noon.

Published EVERY Week & you get 50 Papers per week 1 Editorial Article per week

GOSPEL MEMORIAL C.O.G.I.C.

1480 Atlantic Ave., L.B., CA 90813 Phone: (562) 599-7389 BISHOP JOE L. EALY, PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 11:00 A.M. Evening Worship ................... 6:30 P.M. Wednesday Night Prayer ..... 7:00 P.M. Pastoral Teaching (Wed) ...... 7:30 P.M.

GOSPEL MISSION BAPTIST CHURCH

7301 So. Avalon, L.A., CA 90003 Phone/Fax: (323) 759-8087 REV. RAYMOND A. DENNIS, PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ............... 10:30 A.M. Mission Mtg. (Wed.) ........ 12:00 Noon Bible Study/Prayer Mtg. (W) 7:00 P.M.

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raise the praise ADVERTISEMENT YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

Sunday Morning Services ............ 10 a.m.

Sunday School Members ......... 9:35 a.m.

Bible study: Tues. 7 p.m. & Wed. 12 noon.

Published EVERY Week & you get 50 Papers per week 1 Editorial Article per week

ST. JOHN M.B.C.

936 W. 49th Street Los Angeles, CA 90037 Phone (323) 752-0855 stjohnbc@att.net REV. JAMES A. BROOKS PASTOR Sunday School......................9:30 A.M. Morning Worship...................10:45 A.M. Prayer/Bible Study..... (Wed)....6:00 P.M.

GREATER MT. HERMON M.B.C.

2302 West 132nd St., L.A., CA 90059 Ph: 310-635-1958 FAX: 310-635-1938 REV. A.R. BILLINGLY Organizer/Builder REV. KENNETH A. HALL, PASTOR Sunday School ...................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ................. 10:45 A.M. Evening Worship .................... 6:00 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer (Wed) 12 Noon/7:30 P.M.

PLEASANT VIEW M.B.C. 7524 S. Compton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90001

Ph: (323) 581-9900 Email Address: pvmbc54@yahoo.com REV. MICHAEL WHITE - PASTOR Sunday School ............9:15 - 10:30 A.M. Morning Worship Service ........11:00 A.M. Wednesday Night Prayer...........7:00 P.M. Wednesday Night Bible Study....7:30 P.M.

ROCK OF FAITH M.B.C.

5151 South Normandie Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90037 Off.: (323) 296-5840 / 751-2658 Rev. E.A. Taylor, Founder

REV. WILLIAM G. DAVIS, JR., PASTOR

Sunday School ..................... 9:05 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 10:15 A.M. Afternoon Worship ............... 3:30 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer (Wed.) ............ 7:00 P.M.

ST. REED BAPTIST CHURCH

656 East 79th Street - L.A., CA 90001 Ph: (323) 752-7807; Fx. (323) 758-8529 E-mail: StReed@sbcglobal.net REV. C.R. JONES, PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................. 11:00 A.M. Bible Study (Wed.) .............. 10:00 A.M. Prayer Service (Wed.) .......... 6:30 P.M. B.T.U. ..................................... 5:30 P.M. Teacher’s Mtg. (Thurs.) ......... 5:30 P.M.

TRAVELER’S REST M.B.C. 1417 East Florence Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90001

Phone: (323) 582-7797 Fax: (323) 582-1191

E-mail: travelersrest@sbcglobal.net REV. SIDNEY O. SMITH, PASTOR

Morning Worship .......8:00 & 11:00 A.M. Sunday School ...................... 9:30 A.M. Prayer Meeting ... (Wed) ....... 6:40 P.M. Bible Study ...... (Wed) .......... 7:20 P.M.

TRUE FRIENDSHIP MISSIONARY B.C. 7901 South Van Ness Avenue Inglewood, CA 90305 Ph: (323) 750-7304 Fx. (323) 565-2894 REV. JAMES A. PERKINS, PASTOR Morning Worship ..... 8:00 A.M./10:45 A.M. Bible Adventure Hour ............... 9:30 A.M. Prayer & Praise/Bible Study (Tues.) 7:P.M. Prayer & Praise/Bible Study (Thur.) 12 Noon

GREATER MT. SINAI M.B.C. #2

“A Church Bible-Based, ChristCentered & Spirit Led” 12317 S. Wilmington Ave. Compt., CA 90222 Phone: (310) 631-0261 REV. KALVIN E. CRESSEL, SR., PASTOR/TEACHER Bible Institue (Sun.) ............. 9:15 A.M. Morning Worship ............... 10:45 A.M. Mission (Tues.) ................. 10:30 A.M. Teachers Mtg. (Tues.) ......... 6:30 P.M. Bible Study/Discipleship (Wed)7:00 P.M.

MOUNT ISRAEL M.B.C.

230 W. 103rd Street, L.A., CA 90003 (323) 757-3090; Fx: (310) 532-8498 Email; jessiewalker@ca.rr.com DR. JESSE L. WALKER, PASTOR Sunday School ........................ 9:30 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship ..... 11:00 A.M. Midwk. Worship Serv/Prayer Mtg 7:P.M. B.T.U. (Sunday)......................10:15 A.M. Choir Rehearsal (Friday.) ...... 7:00 P.M.

NEW PROVIDENCE M.B.C.

10200 South Normandie Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90044 Phone: (323) 754-3779 Rev. Q.E. McKinney, Pastor Early Morning Service .......... 8:15 A.M. Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Regular Morning Service .....11:00 A.M. Prayer Call (Tues) ................ 5:30 P.M. Bible Study (Wed) ............ 12:00 Noon

THE LIBERTY CHURCH 14725 South Gramercy Place Gardena, CA 90249 CHURCH: (310) 715-8400 Email Address: libertytabmin@sbcglobal.net DAVID CROSS - PASTOR/TEACHER Worship Services ........9:00 & 11:00 A.M. Word Power/Bible Study (Wed.) 7:00 P.M. “I Care Ministry” (Sat.) ................ (TBA)

UNION MISSIONARY B.C.

1812 E. 110th St. - L.A., CA 90059 Phone: (323) 566-5315 REV. ADELL MCDANIEL, PASTOR Sunday School ...................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................. 11:00 A.M. Prayer Mtg./Bible Study (Tue.) 5:00 P.M. UBU Club (Ages 13-19) 4th Wed. 6: P.M.

VILLAGE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

1521 East 111th St., L.A., CA 90059 Los Angeles, CA 90061-0218 Phone: (323) 566-5303 villagembc@gmail.com www.villagewatts.faithlifesites.com REV. W. CHARLES HARRIS, II, PASTOR Sunday School ....................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship .................. 11:00 A.M. Prayer Meeting (Wed.) ............ 6:30 P.M. Bible Study (Wed.) .................. 7:00 P.M.

ONE FAITH FELLOWSHIP P.O. BOX 56641, LA, CA 90056 E-MAIL: OneFaith2007@aol.com www.onefaithfellowship.org Phone: (323) 481-6724 Dr. Tonya Lewis, Founder/President

1st Saturday - Fellowships Celebration of Youths - March Celebration of Adults - August

PARK WINDSOR BAPTIST CHURCH Park Windsor B.C. is a Church of “Inclusion, Not Exclusion” 1842 W. 108th Street, L.A. Ca 90047 Phone: (323) 756-3966 F: (323) 756-3969

REV. TERRELL TAYLOR - PASTOR

Morning Worship Service ..8:00 & .11:00 A.M. Sunday School ...........................9:30 AM Noon Bible Study...Wed............... 12:00 PM Prayer Meeting/Bible Study Wed... 7:00 PM

NEW HOPE B.C. LONG BEACH

1160 New York St. Long Beach, CA 90813 Ph (562) 599-3509; Fx (562) 591-7314 REV. COLEMAN L HART, PASTOR Sunday School ........................ 8:45 A.M. Morning Worship ................... 10:30 A.M. Sun. Discipleship Training ..... 5:00 P.M. Mon. Night Men’s Bible Study .. 7:00 P.M. Tuesday (Mission) WMU ......... 6:00 P.M. Wednesday Youth Family Night 6:00 P.M. Wed. Night (Mid-Week) Prayer 7:00 P.M. PILGRIM’S HOPE BIBLE CHURCH 7016 S. Compton Ave, L.A. Ca 90001 Phone: (323) 581-7672 Fx: (323) 581-6466 Email: phbc7016@att.net

Dr. T. Delbert Robinson, Senior Pastor CESOM ..................................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ......................10:30 A.M. Pastoral Bible Institute ...WED....7:00 P.M.

TABERNACLE BAPTIST CHURCH 4155 McKinley Ave., L.A., CA 90011 PH: (323) 233-3289; FX: (323) 233-9356 E-Mail: Tabernacle_bc@yahoo.com PASTOR LESTER MOSLEY 8:00 A.M. ........ Early Morning Worship (1st, 3rd, & 5th Sunday) 9:30 A.M. ....... Sunday Church School 11:00 A.M. ................ Worship Service 7:30 P.M. (Wed.) Mid-Week BibleStudy & Prayer Service

TABERNACLE OF FAITH B.C.

11328 S. Central Ave., L.A., CA 90059 Phone: (323) 569-4162 Website: gotothetab.org Email: thetab@gotothetab.org

REV. JOHN D LONG, PASTOR Sunday School .................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 11:00 A.M. Bible Study (Thurs) .............. 7:00 P.M. School of Prayer (Wed.) ...... 11:00 A.M.

YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

Sunday Morning Services ............ 10 a.m.

Sunday School Members ......... 9:35 a.m.

Bible study: Tues. 7 p.m. & Wed. 12 noon.

Published EVERY Week & you get 50 Papers per week 1 Editorial Article per week

• june 14, 2020 - PAGE

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INTERVIEW columns sunday school continuedf rom page 5 99 percent of his wealth, he’s also partnered with Bill Gates to persuade other superwealthy individuals to do the same! Most of Buffett’s fortune will go to charities, not to his children.

These and other incredibly rich people have expressed a Solomon-like wisdom when it comes to inherited wealth.

Solomon recognized that the best gift we can leave our children is wisdom, not cash. When we live a life of

righteousness, we ensure that our children will have a “rich inheritance” (Proverbs 8:21), not a life of ease and irresponsibility.

—J. E. Conclusion A. … And Wise?

Some may ask, “Isn’t it possible to be wealthy and wise?” True, the biblical record includes individuals who were both (examples: Genesis 41:41–44; 1 Kings 3:10–14; Job 1:1–5; 42:12–17). But

overflow with thankfulness.

Colossians 3:16-Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Reflecting on who He has been and what He has done in the past gives us the blessed assurance of His continued faithful love toward us for the present and future duration of our life. He doesn’t

just profess to love us, but His love is expressed in action.

So, this writing is dedicated to focusing on “The Spirit of Thankfulness” to our Great Lord. Thank you, Lord, thank you Lord, thank you Lord!

When a “Spirit of Thankfulness” resonates within our hearts, it frees us from being selfcentered, which gives us the time, desire and motivation to intercede for others who may not know God as the only true

nuggets cont. from page 10

receiving the gospel (Matthew 13:22). Similarly, Jesus asked, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”

(16:26). Of course, the implied answer is, “Nothing.” To gain all the world has to offer at the loss of wisdom results in tragedy. That is true despite all the abundance that the whole world can offer.

One who can be depended on.

“The Spirit of Thankfulness” enables us to experience peace in turbulent times, contentment in anxious moments, and unwavering faith in seemingly faithless situations. “The Spirit of Thankfulness” is a great antidote for pity parties, singing the blues, jealousy, envy, and believing others as being more loved by God then we are. “The Spirit of Thankfulness” reminds us individually of just how incredibly special we are to the

Lord. It blesses our entire being from the top of our head to the soles of our feet. “The Spirit of Thankfulness” is excellent heart medication for anything that ails us physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

Hebrews 12:28-Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping Him with holy fear and awe.

Ephesians 5:4-Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—

sunday school continuedf on page 11

nuggets cont.on page 11

And Church Frederick Howard

sunday school .. continued ON page 11

7 6 A P V

CALL TODAY 1-877-571-6139 PRIMERICA REPRESENTATIVE FREDERICK HOWARD | SOLUTION # 76APV

rtp last week answer key

practice more of reflecting and saying thank you Lord rather than focusing on what we do not possess. That would also give us the “NOW-FAITH” needed for what He’s doing right now, even though we do not see it yet manifested in our life. Colossians 2:7-Let your roots grow down into Him (Jesus), and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will

the Bible clearly warns us about the spiritual dangers that material wealth and possessions can pose. The primary issue is the impact that this has on one’s heart and thus on one’s relationship with God (compare Psalm 52:5–7; Mark 10:17–23).

In his parable of the sower, Jesus warns of the “deceitfulness of wealth” that results in an individual’s becoming unfruitful after

rtp word puzzle

individuals have different plans, however.

Rock star Gene Simmons made his fortune with hard work. He wants his children to learn the value of work too.

Martial artist and movie star Jackie Chan plans to give most of his wealth to charity and not to his son. His logic is clear: “If he is capable, he can make his own money. If he is not, then he will just be wasting my money.” Warren Buffett has promised not only to give away

• june 14, 2020 - PAGE

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COLUMNS want ads vacancies announments EVENTS MUSICIAN WANTED | The True Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is looking for a Minister of Music. Candidates who are knowledgeable and skilled in piano, organ, Gospel music, and have a heart to serve God , please email your resume with two references to carolynjlez9wis @gmail.com or, mail to: 7901 S. Van Ness Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90305, Attn: Carolyn J. Lewis. nuggets cont. from page 10

these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. So, we should commit more time in being thankful. Thank you, Lord! Thank you, Lord!

Thank you, Lord! We bless your holy name! Hallelujah, You alone are worthy of all the praise and of all the glory!

Thank you for loving us the way You love us! Thank you for giving to us all that You give to us! Thank you for watching over

us as You always do! Thank you for provision as You always provide every need! Thank you for the blessing of our desires that You provide for us!

Add your thoughts of specialized thank you’ s to the Lord. Thank you, Lord for_____! Thank you, Lord for_____! Thank you, Lord for_____! Thank you, Lord for_____! Even now, we won’t be able to remember from the beginning of our existence through our present day ALLLLLLLLLL of the reasons that we should be thankful. Do know that we are encouraged to go throughout EACH DAY, looking up to the Lord and whispering Thank you, Lord. We don’t have to be specific

323-210-3658 each time in our thankfulness to Him. The main point is that we mut have “The Spirit of Thankfulness”. Thank you, Lord! Thank you, Lord! Thank you, Lord! God bless you and yours. Contact Info: onefaith2007@aol.com , One Faith Fellowship, P. O. Box 56641, LA, CA 90056, www.onefaithfellowship.org. (323) 481-6724

sunday school continuedf from page10 All these teachings are consistent with Wisdom’s plea to choose her above any form of material wealth. No matter how many priceless artifacts we amass—or how useful the new gadgets, inventions, and technological devices are—all

the things that we may desire cannot compare with the value of wisdom.

B. Prayer Father, thank you for the abundance of gifts that you provide to those who choose to heed the call of Wisdom.

Thank you for examples of that wisdom who have shaped us over the years. Help us to be such examples to those in our spheres of influence. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

C. Thought to Remember

Before wisdom’s gifts can be opened and treasured, they must be sought.

Redford, D., Eichenberger, J., & Shallenberger, L. (2020).

Receive Wisdom’s Gifts. In R. L. Nickelson, J. A. Kenney, M. K. Williams, & J. Gerke

(Eds.), The NIV Standard Lesson Commentary, 2019– 2020 (Vol. 26, pp. 361– 367). Colorado Springs, CO: Standard Publishing.

from the pulpit continued from PAGE 5 work in the kingdom of God. It is the leader’s task to ensure that the workers are skillful in their use of the Bible, highly motivated, and committed to the task of laboring long and hard in the vast, overripe harvest that surrounds them.

The same word is used in 1 Peter 5:10: “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” Translated here as “restore,” it means “to fit you out completely,” “to make you whole,” “to make you what you ought to be.”

Don Enright is a friend of mine who lives in Colorado Springs.

He is an outstanding artist who specializes in drawing wild animals.

For years he has concentrated his talent on the bighorn sheep that inhabit the Rocky Mountains.

A few years ago, he decided to broaden his range and include the wild beasts of Africa. To prepare for the task, he took his camera and joined an African safari. At base camp they equipped or outfitted their party for their trek into the bush. They needed medicines, first-aid equipment, food, tents, rifles, ammunition, and men to carry the supplies. That’s how Peter used the word katartizo.

As one would outfit a safari, the

God of all grace—the Author and Finisher of our faith—works to outfit our lives for His glory.

The word is used again in Mark 1:19 and is translated “preparing.”

Here the word means “to repair, overhaul, to make ready for use.”

James and John were repairing their nets and getting them in order.

In this sense, the leader is likened to a repairman. When we need a car repaired, in some cases we need just a minor adjustment— replacing a fuse or tightening a bolt. But sometimes it means a major overhaul. The mechanic must be able to do both in order to enable the automobile to function at its best. And so the leader must have the compassion and skill to take the broken or bruised lives and make whatever major or minor repairs are needed to get them functioning again in perfect order.

Paul expressed a similar idea to the Thessalonians: “Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith” (1 Thess. 3:10).

When my youngest son was in junior high school, he was given a large poster and a box of colored pencils. He was supposed to follow the instructions and create the picture. There were scores of colors involved and it was quite a complicated task. So he began.

Night after night he worked on his project. He would do the reds, then the blues, then the greens, and so on. One by one he filled in the gaps and finally the picture was complete. It took weeks to complete, but he finally made it, and it was beautiful. That’s the thrust of the word here. Possibly, there are certain misunderstood doctrines that the leader must teach simply and clearly. He may strengthen people’s faith in the promises of God or help them learn how to study the Bible for themselves. Wherever there are gaps, the leader must take whatever action is necessary to see that they are filled in. In Hebrews 11:3, we see another meaning of katartizo: “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” Formed means “to arrange, to place in proper order.”

In the beginning, the world was without form and void. There was confusion and emptiness. But out of this shapeless, useless mass, this rough draft, God brought forth a world of perfect order that functions perfectly according to His divine plan and law. This should be of great encouragement to the leader. If God can do it with His world, He can do it

with His people. I have talked with leaders who looked on their people and saw confused, useless, empty lives. God’s power, His wisdom, His Word, and His Spirit can work mighty and dramatic changes. C onfusion can b e turned to purpose. Uselessness can be changed to productivity.

The book of Luke gives us another facet of the word: “A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). Here is the idea of growth.

Leaders are to help the people grow in grace and the likeness of Christ. They must teach them to pray and to read and memorize the Word, in order to establish a daily and meaningful fellowship with the Savior. All too often leaders rely only on their teaching to accomplish the task. And all too often, that doesn’t work.

Yes, people need to be taught.

But Jude added the missing ingredient: “But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life” (Jude vv. 20–21).

People must be taught means to mature and to keep themselves in the love of God. If leaders can help

their people learn how to dig into the Word for themselves, to write it on the tablets of their hearts through Scripture memory, to establish the practice of morning prayer and Bible reading, they will do much to help their people grow and develop into all that God wants them to be. In Galatians 6:1, we see another use of katartizo: “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” Here the leader who is controlled by the Holy Spirit must redirect the wanderer and gently set him right.

The word is used here in a medical sense, to reset, as in the case of a dislocated bone. A dislocated limb cannot function properly. A person out of joint in the body of Christ could be lost to effective service in the kingdom of God.

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#12

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