Point of Grace Online Worship - July 5, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 7.5.20

Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – A Game Changer!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Patience - forbearance, a slow fuse, longsuffering, replaces outbursts of temper or rage

Kindness - saving grace, whereas forbearance is passive love Kindness if active love,

Goodness - generosity, moral goodness exhibited

So needed?

Ephesians 2 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith

Titus 3 3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.

What about Jesus?

Patience – Kindness – Goodness is God’s nature therefore when He lives in us by His Spirit He brings about this kind of fruit. We become more of who we were meant to be.

Colossians 3 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

The meaningful life Christ intends means I am a conduit of kindness!

Why is Patience and Kindness so hard?

Surrender

Romans 2 4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?

The sinful self uses God’s kindness as license …. The saved self is moved by kindness to repentance.

“Kindness is often abused …… but it will also breakthrough!”

We can have “agreements” with untruth about kindness.

“If I am kind all the time I can’t be honest or truthful”

“Kindness doesn’t get things done.”

“Being kind all the time is too hard…. Don’t have time for that!”

“I just say it like it is.”

“It’s just the way I am.”

Great Tools to Foster Kindness

- Communication – Let Kindness Reign!

- Recognition and Appreciation – Let Kindness Win!

Can you imagine the possibilities for the kingdom if we are kind?

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - I get to let go of my “unkind normals” and lies surrendering to the Spirit of kindness and patience. Letting go of control leaves room for kindness even when kindness gets abused. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive the Holy Spirit’s agenda for me which includes all the hope and possibilities of patience, kindness and goodness. I will Act like it! - I can respond to the Spirit in me by being helpful and graceful in my communication while recognizing and appreciating kindness when I see it.

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of patience, kindness, goodness” in your life!

A new resource recommended last couple weeks which I again encourage this week is:

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Titus 3:1-8 (so good) Tue – Colossians 3:12-17 (One of my favs) Wed – John 8:1-11 (Jesus styled kindness…. Wow!) Thu – John 9:1-12 (Read the chapter if you can…. Such kindness of Jesus contrasted with human pettiness.) Fri – Matthew 5:48 (Jesus calls to be radically kind when mistreated even when taking offense is in style.) Sat - Psalm 19

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 28, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.28.20 Sermon Notes “His Present is His Presence – When I get just what I need!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

PEACE – Shalom – Wellbeing – Salvation – Wholeness The Peace of the Lord

John 14 25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Jesus unplugs our need for Peace (our idea and our experience) from life’s circumstances and plugs us into Him as the source of Peace.

John 15 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

John 16 33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The framework for understanding our circumstances as being the source of our PEACE is something that comes very naturally.

Galatians 5 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is … … …

Philippians 4 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Our role is not to produce peace but receive the presence of Jesus by His Spirit and act like He and His promises are real.

What might that look like?

Philippians 4 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Our Role: Turn our anxieties into prayers saturated with thanksgiving.

God’s Role: Peace of divine origin is given that will “guard” our heart and mind!

Philippians 4:6-7 (The Message) Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Matthew 6 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink;… 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - I get to turn my anxieties and concerns into prayers and open myself up to Jesus and His care for me. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive peace … the care and wellbeing of my Father in heaven. I will Act like it! - I get to allow myself to be at peace as this fruit grows! I do not have to be addicted to anxiety.

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of Peace” in your life!

A new resource recommended last week which I again encourage this week is:

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – John 14:15-27 Tues – John 16:29-33 Wed – Philippians 4:4-9 Thu – Matthew 6:25-34 Fri – Romans 12:7-13 Sat - Psalm 34:1-14

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 21, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.21.20 Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – What a Difference!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

JOY – a taste of Eden

What is Joy?

The Spirit of God actually produces the fruit of “Joy” in my life as I live under Him.

Galatians 5 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is … … …

“Joy is a fruit of a right relationship with God rather than a result of right circumstances in life.”

- Comfort, happiness, excitement etc. are much more circumstantial – Joy is foundational.

-Joy is not extinguished by suffering, discomfort or loss but shines there.

Philippians 4 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!....... 10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord

Acts 16 19 When her owners realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20 They brought them before the magistrates and said, “These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21 by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice.” 22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24 When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” 29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. 34 The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.

Hebrews 12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

I get to join the Spirit and His fruit-bearing work in my life as I celebrate the Goodness of God in all circumstances.

God is Good … … … even when life is not!

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - I repent and let go of “giving up” on JOY or settling for cheap substitutes. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive JOY as mine to experience and share as a fruit of You Jesus living in me. You are good! I will Act like it! - I get to join You, Holy Spirit, and not fight You as You do your fruit-bearing work in my life!

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of Joy” in your life!

A new resource I am particularly encouraging this week is this book:

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Nehemiah 8:9-12 Tues – Philippians 4:4-9 Wed – Philippians 1:3-11 Thu – Hebrews 12:1-13 Fri – John 15:5-11 Sat - 1st Thessalonians 5:16-28

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 14, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.14.20

Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – And I Really Need Him!”

When life’s challenges get too big and too hard we come to the end of our self.

When we “come to the end of our self” …… Jesus is there.

His Presence by His Spirit is welcomed in a desperate heart for the

The Connection He makes possible for us, Romans 8 1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…… 14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to son ship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children…. 26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

The Counsel He brings to us, John 14 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 16 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.

The Fruit He bears through us. Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Love is a “fruit” of the Holy Spirit’s reign in my life.

• I get to surrender to Him, welcome and celebrate Him.

• I get to “crucify” the opponents of love in my life like pride, arrogance, fear …

• And nurture the marks of love in my life like humility, faith, vulnerability.

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - Repentance and humility keep pride and fear at bay I Receive You and Your agenda and - Grace, forgiveness, truth, able-to-do-ness, life, confidence, peace, joy I will Act like it!

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit” everyday!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Romans 8:1,12-17 Tues – Romans 8:22-28 Wed – John 14:15-27 Thu – John 16:7-15 Fri – Galatians 5:13-26 Sat - Psalm 148

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 7, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.7.20 Trinity Sunday 2020 Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence”

Knowing God is vital to Experiencing God!

Acts 232 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

Matthew 28 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 3 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

John 14 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

Genesis 1 26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image …!

Deuteronomy 6 4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

The doctrine of the Trinity reveals the nature of God as a singular unified whole (one) while being three distinct persons Father – Son – Holy Spirit!

One God in three persons – co-equal, co-eternal, co-existent!

This diagram is like the one used in the sermon.

Why?

Ephesians 3

14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.

16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power,

together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,

19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Having a triune God means I am Exponentially “LOVED3”

which means …

(As you pray this pray, think about filling in the blank with the width, height, length and/or depth of the love of God. This may enhance your personal receiving of His love every day.)

Father, thank you for loving me …… I receive our _____ love for me,

Jesus, thank you for loving me … … I receive Your ______ love for me,

Holy Spirit, thank you for loving me … … I receive Your _____ love for me.

I love You back so much!

Resources which will help you receive and live in the exponential LOVE3 of our God who is Trinity!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – John 14:25-26,15:26-27 Tues – Ephesians 2:19-22 Wed – Ephesians 3:14-21 Thu – Colossians 1:9-14 Fri – Matthew 28:16-20 Sat - Psalm 100

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - Check out the devotion for June 3. It is a great read for the topic of the exponential love of God for us.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 31, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.31.20

Pentecost 2020

Sermon Notes

Pentecost 2020 - “His Present is Presence”

Pentecost?

Acts 1 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

“Wait for the gift … … … the Holy Spirit”

Acts 1 12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city. …. 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

“power” - “able-to-do–ness”

“be my witnesses … … … to the ends of the earth.” - Jesus “raises their gaze” to what He will do through them!

How will they be “able to do” the meaningful life Christ intends for them?

Acts 2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? ….. we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?” Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”

14 Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people…………

22 “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.

32 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

His Present is His Presence

“Able-to-do-ness” flows freely when the Holy Spirit is welcome and present.

Luke 1111 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and Receive You and Your agenda and now will Act like it!

Resources which will help you receive and live in the gift of the Holy Spirit every day!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Acts 1:1-14 Tues – Acts 2:1-24 Wed – Acts 2:36-47 Thu – Luke 11:9-13 Fri – John 14:15-18, 23-27 Sat - Psalm 51

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 24, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.24.20 Sermon Notes

Resurrection Matters – “If We Get a Sword Why Use a Butter Knife?”

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Armoring Up with the Armor

“and (receive) the short sword of the Spirit which is the word of God”

Closer Look - If we get a “sword” why use a butter knife?

-The word as “rhema” – utterance of God. What God has said, is saying?

Jesus Wields the Sword

Mark 4 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted[a] by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Deuteronomy 8 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land the Lord promised on oath to your ancestors. 2 Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the Lord your God disciplines you.

Matthew 4 5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6 “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” 7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”

Deuteronomy 6 16 Do not put the Lord your God to the test as you did at Massah. 17 Be sure to keep the commands of the Lord your God and the stipulations and decrees he has given you. 18 Do what is right and good in the Lord’s sight, so that it may go well with you and you may go in and take over the good land the Lord promised on oath to your ancestors,

Matthew 4 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”

Deuteronomy 6 13 Fear the Lord your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name. 14 Do not follow other gods, the gods of the peoples around you; 15 for the Lord your God, who is among you, is a jealous God”

11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

Wielding the sword of the Spirit involves giving the Spirit something to wield in me and for me!

Know the Story – Reading and Study

Own the Words – Meditation and Contemplation

- Holy Spirit, please speak to me through Your Word. (Read and Notice!)

- Holy Spirit why this word this day? What are You saying to me? (Contemplate, meditate, ruminate!)

- Own it! (Document, communicate, remember and give thanks!)

Psalm 119 How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. 10 With all my heart I have sought You; Do not let me wander from Your commandments. 11 Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You.

How do I “receive the sword of the Spirit” … so I don’t wind up fighting with a plastic knife?

How can I intentionally pray, contemplate and rehearse the armor on to me every day?

Resources which will help you “Receive the Sword of the Spirit” everyday!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Psalm 119:9-16 Tues – 2 Timothy 3:12-17 Wed – 2 Peter 1:16-21 Thu – Colossians 3: 15-17 Fri – Hebrews 4:12-16 Sat - Psalm 119:41-48

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 17, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.17.20 Sermon Notes Resurrection Matters – “Saving My Thinking?”

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Armoring Up with the Armor

“receive the helmet of salvation”

Why “receive”?

Why “salvation”, “deliverance” for my head ….my mind … my thinking?

Romans 12 2 Do not conform 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 8 5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

Our “flesh” for Paul is our “sinful nature” and at its core is “The Self”, “Exalted Self”, “Self Life” which is Self-centered, Self-ruled, self-ish etc.

Romans 8 5 Those who live according to the Self have their minds set on what the Self desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the Self is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the Self is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the Self cannot please God

No wonder Paul says our “mind” needs “saving”, “delivering”, “healing” from being ruled by the Self.

When the Self is ruling or leading our thinking we are so very vulnerable to the evil one!

How do I know when the “Self Life” is running the show in my mind and thinking?

(delton quotes here from “Get Your Life Back” Chapter 9 by John Eldredge)

What’s the fear? We fear that If we surrender “self-rule” (die to self as Jesus would say) we won’t have a life.

Mark 8 34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life[b] will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.

John 10 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

With Jesus we get “Life to the full!”

How do I “receive” the helmet of salvation? Only one helmet can be on my head.

Taking Off and Receiving

“Jesus, I surrender the Self Life to You. I deny it a place of authority in my life and thinking. Come Holy Spirit, fill me afresh, reign over my life and thinking.”

“Jesus, I invite you into my (our) thinking on ……….. and yield to Your leading!”

Over the top Worship, Praise and Giving Thanks

Make no room for offense.

Cultivate admiration

How do I “receive the helmet of salvation”?

How can I intentionally pray, contemplate and rehearse the armor on to me every day?

Resources which will help you “receive the helmet of salvation” everyday!

The book delton read from in the sermon today is “Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge Check it out!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Romans 12:1-8 Tues – Romans 8:1-8 Wed – Romans 8:9-17 Thu – Colossians 3:1-11 Fri – Isaiah 26:1-4 Sat - Psalm 62

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)