I find that there is a law, that evil is present within me, the one who wills to do good. For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind and bringing into captivity the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God…through Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:21-25

“Thank God for Jesus!” This was my late Grandmother’s favorite refrain in praise, sorrow, and worship. In my early years of life, this seemed to be so cliché; however, in my later years I have come to realize how truly valuable and “worshipful” this statement is to our souls. Our wretched and carnal nature seems to gravitate effortlessly toward sin, destruction and the grave…but thank God for Jesus! This gracious gift of salvation was immortalized in that familiar scripture, John 3:16, “…for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This Gospel or “good news” makes everyday a joyous day in Jesus the Christ. And even though tough times may immerge and we allow our “flesh-man” to walk over our “spirit-man”, we can simply call on the name that’s above every name and He will provide a way of escape. Sometimes, that escape will not be a simple egress. Like a new butterfly breaking through its cocoon, we too must allow the Holy Spirit to empower us to be released from our bondages. And WHEN the pull of sin connects with our flesh and calls to return to those dry places we once found comforting to the flesh, know that there will be a battle…but thank God for Jesus! In Him we win!

In His Love!

Pastor Ron

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. I Corinthians 13:1

In our dispensation or era, some things from the past have changed and yet some remain the same. Relationships, family, government, laws, education, athletics, finance, commerce, and a host of other social facets have sustained in principle, while changing with the times. The fundamentals of life, however, seemed to remain intact even in the face of obsolescence. Mathematics, sciences, taxes, and death are just a few disciplines that seem to transcend cultural, societal and natural changes. One of the least common, yet transcendent factor of life, is effective communication. In a perfect world, exceptional, accurate and efficient communication will generally lead to bliss. Since we are far from a perfect world, golden communicators are in high demand. In fact, according to Forbes Magazine, world-leading mogul Carlos “Slim” Helu’s Telecommunication business’ net worth of $69Billon, suggests that the most demanded, purchased and supplied commodity is communication. His family is immediately followed by Bill Gates…yet another tycoon in the communication arena. Helen Keller, who was a famous author, yet severely disabled, said, “I’m just as deaf as I am blind, however, the problems of deafness are deeper and more complex.

In addressing the Laodicean “lukewarm” Church, Jesus said,

“Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. (Rev 3:17-18) 

If we truly desire to be reflectors of Jesus’ light to the hurting, hungry and hope-seeking, allow me to suggest yet another quote from Helen Keller, “All the world is full of suffering; it is also full of overcoming!”

Let’s become communicators for Christ.

Special Regards & Blessings,

Pastor Ron

So where exactly is the battlefield and what is our arsenal

See Attachment

Although we may not all be called to teach or preach, we are called to serve in some capacity. As the old saying goes, “…the Devil finds things for idle hands to do.” Another similar idiom is, “…idle hands are the Devil’s workshop.”

Once we come to know Christ Jesus as Lord, He becomes the governor or director of our steps. We are led into paths of righteousness…for His name sake (Psalm 23:3)…for His kingdom. However, the enemy is on a non-stop pilgrimage to distract, deceive, and destroy, in an effort to thwart God’s plan. As a part of the enemy’s strategy, an easy and common snare is in the form of a believer-shaped trap that says, “Make a name for yourself!” Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness with his “make-a-name-for-yourself-hell-bait”; however, Jesus skillfully disarmed each & every snare placed in His path. Avoiding the snares of the enemy requires guidance by the Holy Spirit, who will not only expose Satan’s devices, but He will also equip us with the knowledge to avoid and warn others of the pending doom. We may even be granted the anointing to render those snares useless to others. Unfortunately, we still have a sin nature that gravitates towards the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life (I John 2:16). Because of this, we may get caught; and therefore, we need God’s ever-sufficient grace. So with a heart that is completely sold-out to Jesus & an ear to hear the Holy Spirit’s direction, we too can break these bonds, break those chains, & celebrate life’s breakthroughs.

Special Regards & Blessings

Pastor Ron

Winning Spiritual Warfare

“…how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house. He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. Matthew 12:29-30

Engaging spiritual warfare is inevitable. For some, the battles may be assessed as simple daily annoyances, or irritants, with an occasional challenge, or failure. For others, the buffeting seems constant, perpetual and painful; however, there are many scriptures that somehow help us to be overcomers. Paul told the Corinthian Church, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” (I Corinthians 10:13) Matthew reminded us of Jesus’ words, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matt 11:28-30). There is a host of other scriptures to remind us that we can simply “get by”, “breakdown” or we can “breakthrough”. Winning spiritual warfare requires a full understanding that we are absolutely powerless without Christ.

Special Regards & Blessings

Pastor Ron

Thanks to all of you who braved the weather and made it to the meeting. Your inputs are invaluable to me and I pray thay will be to you as well. I look forward to Saturday 4 Feb at 0830 hours. The Peace of Jesus Christ be with you all.

Welcome to 2012 and BREAKTHROUGH

So what is a breakthrough?

1 - an offensive thrust that penetrates and carries beyond a defensive line in warfare 

2 - an act or instance of breaking through an obstacle <a breakthrough agreement>

3 - a: a sudden advance especially in knowledge or technique <a medical breakthrough>

 b: a person's first notable success <a breakthrough novel>

So what does that entail for us, as men/as men, belonging to Christ?

Men’s Group Objective

“We inspire each other to ....

Fight the good fight, finish the race & keep the faith”

What is it “to inspire”?

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What is a “good fight”?

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What is it to “finish the race”?

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What is it “to keep the faith”?

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2 Tim 4:7

 I have fought a good fight, and have finished my course: I have kept the faith.

What was Paul talking about?

(v. 7): I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, etc...

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1. He did not fear death, because, by the grace of God, he had the testimony of his conscience.

2. As a Christian, as a minister, he had fought a good fight.

1. He had done his service
   1. His life was a course
2. Gone through the difficulties of his warfare
   1. his warfare was accomplished
3. He was instrumental in carrying on the victories of Jesus Christ over the powers of darkness in this world.

His race was run.

What is your race?

how can I help you run that race?

inspire you?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

keep your faith?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

finish well?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

how can you help me run that race

inspire me?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

keep my faith?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

help me to finish well?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Note:

The life of a Christian is...

5. a warfare and a race
5. It is a good fight
5. A good warfare

We must fight this good fight; we must fight it out, and finish our course.

Rom 8:37. 

Nevertheless, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us 

Facing & Overcoming Doubts

Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart. (II Corinthians 4:1)

As we embark on this 2012 journey to the complete the Lord’s will for New Hope, the pressing burdens in my heart are three-fold: 1. Are we “fully” committed to the Lord? 2. Do we have “ears to hear”? And 3. Will we be good stewards of all He will entrust in our care? 

The series of messages for 2012 are all aimed at equipping us to be powerful “Hell-feared” and “Heaven-Favored” warriors in the Kingdom of God. At the forefront of our minds we know that, as Christians, we are always at war on this side of Glory. We will either battle our mind, will, and emotions, or external principalities that perpetually wage war against our soul. (Eph 6:10-12)

Every demonic force knows very well how short the time is till “The Day”. So every snare, strategy, and sickness will be fastened to the fiery darts of Hell and hurled in our direction. Beware; it is in that moment when we believe we are in a world of peace and tranquility that we will quickly realize that those days are only the precursor to warfare. (1 Thess 5:3) 

But here is good news: The Gospel of Jesus Christ clearly empowers us to go from “Glory to Glory” and not “valley to valley”. As Saints on the winning team of God, our faith WILL be shaken; however, failure is not an option. We need not fear defeat, as long as we hold fast, hold true and “overcome”. (Rev 3:5) And in those moments when overcoming may seem impossible to us, then we will call on the Lord our God, He will fight our battles, and we WILL prevail…we WILL breakthrough.

"Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy." ~ Dale Carnegie

Special Regards & Blessings,

Pastor Ron

Pastor Ron’s Monthly Note:

The Promise & Provisions

“…If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask Him?” Matthew 7:11

“God is a good god…all the time…and all the time, God is good!” This relatively common refrain has been uttered through lips of many believers and echoed down the corridors of several church buildings. Although few would argue that God is good, I often wonder how many really accept this fact as a matter of faith. How could God be so good with all the death, dying and destruction that is so prevalent around the globe? And of all the people in this world, why would He care about me and MY needs? These are very fair questions we may never get clearly answered on this side of glory; however, there are some things we do know that facilitate imperfections in this world: 1. Disobedience, 2. Faithlessness, 3.Greed, 4. Lust, 5. Pride, and a host of Earthly deviations from God’s mark, simply referred to as…SIN. When God’s goodness is existent, sin is displaced…like light dispelling darkness. God is not only a good god but He is also a great Daddy or Abba Father. He knows our needs, our potential, and everything He ordained us to be. The prophet Jeremiah said it best, when he wrote…

“I know the plans I have for you,” declared the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

As we enter this season of joy we call Christmas, let’s remember that God is so good, and loves us so much (yes…even while we were in sin). He did send His only begotten son to be born of a virgin, serve, suffer, and die for an absolutely worthless person like me. So is God good? He is THE absolutely Great and Glorious One, worthy of the highest halleluiahs from our blood-bought souls. “Glory to God in the highest & peace on Earth to all men & women!”

Join us for a wonderful day of giving thanks for God's blessings. All are invited, member, non-member, visitor for plenty of food and fellowship. 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM with food being served about 1:00 PM.

Pastor Ron’s Monthly Note:

“…count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, so you may be perfect & complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4)

Everyone likes a story with a good end; however, few actually take note of the value of the pain, challenges or setbacks that add to the sweetness of victory. Without a storm, a sunny day would just be another day; without fear, tranquility would be an ordinary state; without poverty, we would not be certain who or what wealth really means; and without the valley of death, the “mountain-top” joy of life would not be sensed as worthwhile. The ultimate promise is preceded by preparation and the process. Paul reminded the Church in Rome that,

“…we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5)

In Christ, all our stories have a great end; however, we must be overcomes of the tests that lead to our testimonies of life. The coming days will demand even more from each of us whose hearts are yielded to the Lord. God never promised us that our life here on Earth would be easy, but He did leave us with the Holy Spirit that would comfort, teach, encourage, help, advise and empower us towards His promise. In this journey, we should all be aware that we must be overcomers as well as our brother’s keeper. The preparation and the process necessitates more selflessness & unity s “the day” approaches (Hebrews 10:23-25). 

“Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain.” ---Author Unknown

“Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified & ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:4-5

Some wise person once said, “Ordinary people think merely of spending time. Great people think of using it!” So, just how are we spending these few days we have left on Earth? I often wonder if today’s Church really has ears to hear what God has directed, and is directing, us to do; or are we just wasting valuable time and resources with “cool” church programs. When we pray, “…and let Your Kingdom come…” (Matt 10:6) are these just vain and feigned repetitions of words (Matt 6:7)? 

Paul urged the Ephesian church to redeem the time for the days are evil (Eph 5:16). If we consider the state of the Church today, it begs the question: “Are we at the point, in that place, and perfectly positioned to fulfill the purposes of God?”

Well, I suppose if miracles are happening at will, salvation is occurring at a mega-pace, members are knowledgeable in the Word, we have become the lender and not the borrower based on our superlative stewardship, the “fruit” of the Spirit is flowing like tsunamis through our communities, there is a constant search for newer and larger places to accommodate the droves of new converts, there is so much unity in worship that the Glory of God’s presence has caused services to run 4+ hours overtime because no one wants to leave…and, oh by the way, our love is ever-flowing for all…including our adversaries, then we have absolutely no urgency or need for revival. 

16th century French philosopher and essayist, Michel Eyquem de Montaigne reminded us, “The soul which has no fixed purpose in life is lost; to be everywhere, is to be nowhere.”

Clearly, we have a great deal of work to do.

A Note from Pastor Ron

“The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them … But not so among you… he who is greatest among you, let him who governs as he who serves. (Luke 22: 25-26; excerpt) 

Some may think that only the great ones lead and that leadership is the only route to greatness. Jesus’ disciples thought that the true value of being one of His apostles was the fame and fortune that was certain to follow in an earthly kingdom. After all, Jesus was the true “Rock” star that always seemed to draw large audiences. Being in the “Jesus-entourage” only meant you were destined for greatness befitting the king’s right- and left-hand men. And now that we are talking about the King of kings, the opportunity for greatness just can’t get any better…or so they thought. For them, the only question remained was, who can be the best of the best disciples? With the exception of the King, Who can be the greatest of all? Like the Lord of the Rings’ characters, drawn by the “the ring’s” allure, Jesus’ disciples supposed the ultimate of all prizes was to be “top disciple”. Jesus’ response was slow, poignant, and direct. Get a basin and towel, become a servant and wash some feet … this is selfless service … this is true greatness! 

In judging our progress as individuals, we tend to concentrate on external factors such as one’s social position, influence & popularity, wealth & standard of education…but internal factors may be even more crucial in assessing one’s development as a human being: humility, purity, generosity, absence of vanity, readiness to serve your fellow men…qualities within the reach of every human soul.”  --Nelson’s letter to Winnie Mandela, 1977

Becoming an Overcomer

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, will eat from the tree of life, in the midst of the Paradise of God.”’!” (Rev 2:7)

The ever-increasing complexities of this world have made the will to overcome life’s obstacles more challenging than ever. As a self-described “Hell-hater”, my passion continues to grow for those who may see themselves as hopeless and exempt from the Lamb’s book of Life. Through the guidance, direction, and unction of the Holy Spirit, I’m convinced that we all have the resources to be overcomers; however, the “Strongman” and every satanic agent would like us to believe otherwise. That “Father of Lies” is stepping up his game in these latter days; therefore, ALL saints of God must be, more than ever before, vigilant, prayerful, sober, Bible-literate, and committed to Christ. 

Like Joshua, each saint has a promise for the Promised Land; however, we too will face life’s walls. But with obedience, perseverance, strength and courage, as we shout with a great shout in “true worship”, those life-walls will fall flat.

Oh, one other note…Overcomers like Joshua will need to be armed with much more than faith, strength, courage, sacrifice, and even obedience. We all MUST be armed with a pure heart, lest we too are opposed by the Captain of the Host of Lord’s Army. When we “God-chasers” strive to be aligned to God’s will rather than waiting for God to align with our will and desires, then we SHALL overcome.

Dr. Ron Brown

Senior Pastor

“…and on this rock…!” Jesus realized that the start, middle and end-times of the church would require much more than a fair-weather structure. Our mobile-homes may be good enough for fair weather; however, there is a day forecasted for severe weather. Our foundations may seem solid for today but tomorrow’s imminent earthquake will be its ultimate test. Most would point to the three rules of real-estate for the highest value and return on investment as, “…location, location, location.” Building on the hillside may give the best views, but those landslides of life may erase all those spectacular memories. Building in the valley may place us next to the wellsprings of life; however, some day that gently brook will become a destructive river. Building on the ocean’s edge may yield the most soothing sounds from the wind and waves under the backdrop of those superlative sunrises or sunsets. But the storms and terrific tsunamis could make us wonder if the sacrifice or cost was worth it. Finding level ground without catastrophes may seem more fantastic than Santa Claus; however, there is a place we can build and not let the faintest worry of life enter in. The key is to minimize the “where” and elevate the “who”. You see, when Christ builds, you can rest assured, it will not only withstand all torrents of life, but it will also yield the highest level of safety and a blessed assurance.

“…see, I’m sending you forth…!” (Matt 10:16). Jesus was well aware that the continuance of His ministry would depend on the health of His “Body” or the Church. He was also well aware that this Body of His, we refer to as “the Christ” or anointed one, must be fortified to stand against the tempests and temptations of life. Without power and only a form or image of Godliness (II Tim 3:5), this body would not withstand the journey of carrying one of the most provocative pieces of cargo ever…the Gospel. This is what, I believe, makes our commission so great. The often misunderstood context of “great” to mean special or popular, demands a paradigm shift to a more appropriate interpretation. The great commission suggests the enormity of the task which requires power that’s literally out of this world. It is that very power Jesus told His disciples that they should wait on before they even attempted to go outside of Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria and the uttermost ends of the earth. Before we can ignite the light of Jesus to a dark world, we must connect firmly to the source of power.

In His Grace,

Pastor Ron

April, 2011: From Opportunity to Life

Disillusionment seems to be a relatively popular theme of life today.  The current climate of a less than stellar economy, relationship challenges and the hope of a better life could place a tremendous burden on individuals and families. 

Jesus offered the most perfect prescription for this “viral attitude.”  He said if we would like rest (or experience a more fulfilling life), we should simply come to Him, get in tandem, take on His ordained burden for you, learn about our God-given job & then we could enjoy a “soulful rest”.

More accurately, He said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” -- Matt 28-30